#even lizzie said after he died everything went bad

[dredgesnails]

jimmy dying in a cave right before the snails appear oh he's never escaping that canary curse. do you think if he'd survived the episode's trajectory would have gone differently

[dazzling-raven]

Thoughts and rambles on episode eight! Spoilers below the cut ^^

Alright. Now that I've had a moment to process how everything went down, I have some thoughts. I'm going to try not to write a 5 paragraph essay on the thing, but the one major thing I'd like to say is that the episode is visually phenomenal. Absolutely stunning. Blew my mind. However, it did feel a tad bit rushed.

Now obviously this is the episode where everything hits the fan and nobody really got to sit down and have a ten minute therapy session, but I'm kinda disappointed in how the character arcs were wrapped up. It kinda feels like this episode was a giant boss fight and then nothing else really. Happened. You know? Like the big bad is defeated and we're all happy now. Wich they absolutely deserve after going through that hellstorm, but a little elaboration would have been nice.

That aside though, there were lots of moments in the episode that I loved. Like the bit where N and Uzi were arguing in the spaceship and N said something along the lines of 'I'm so mad at you right now' but then they immediately hug each other and put the argument away for a moment when they weren't being chaced by giant space tentacles. I think this in itself is massive character growth for him, and communicating is key for a good relationship. Wich speaking of.

Nuzi is cannon! We got a confession. Loved that moment. I guess better late than never, right? And their dorky litte handshake mid boss fight? They both have a total of four braincells and they take the other two from their partner whenever one of them is in danger. I love it. Need more of that dynamic.

And V. I feel for V so much in this episode. The scene in the tunnel broke my heart. You cannot tell me that she dosen't at least feel a fondness for their time at the mannor because she was so sad but so relieved when she found out that he was ok. I want more of them so bad. Also I near shrieked with joy when she came in riding the sentinel like a total pro, that's probably one of my favorite little side bits.

Also I really feel for all of you Jessa shippers. I hoped on the Jessa train not too long ago myself, and I was really disappointed with the way they handled J. But at the same time, I think it's hilarious that she canonically died 3 times. Like. How did you even manage that. Even so, her character had a purpose, and I guess she served that purpose.

Also kind of disappointed that Thad, kahn and Lizzy were kind of just. There. But I did love the fact rhat lizzy and V's sentinel had beef from minute one. Girl cannot catch a break.

In all, I thought this episode was amazing. It definitely has it's flaws, but it's a strong episode and one of my favorites. It made me laugh, it tugged on my heartstrings, and it was a phenomenal end to a phenomenal show. So Liam, thank you for telling your story and bringing people together in only the way you knew how.

[hyperactivewhore]

How do you think Klaus’s and Hope’s relationship would be like if he was still alive?

I know that when he died, they had a good relationship - but to me, after everything Hope had went through, I don’t find that really realistic. Honestly, if he had survived, I think Hope would be pretty resentful towards him. He did abandon her for years (he could’ve called, texted, or something but he chose to let Hope believe that he didn’t love her). He put her at risk multiple times so he could see his brother while pretending Hope doesn’t exist and ignoring all her calls. He flirted with Caroline while Hayley was in danger. He made Hope believe that Hayley’s death was all Elijah’s fault.

And I’m not trying to deny that growth Klaus had throughout the series. I do think he has changed in some ways. But at the end of the day, he’s still Klaus. He’s still controlling, possessive, and manipulative. He still harbors this secret desire to be the loved the most by everyone around him. He was threatened every time Rebekah dated someone he didn’t seem ‘worthy’. He greatly disliked the fact that Elijah chose to erase his memory and shacked up with some Nazis (mostly because Elijah erased HIM and didn’t love him anymore). He absolutely hated that Marcel fell in love with Rebekah (not because of any normal reasons like Rebekah is his aunt and literally watched him grow up - but because he didn’t love Klaus the most anymore).

I can see him being possessive and monopolizing all of Hope’s time/attention to make up for the years he lost and because he wants her to love him more than anyone else. Which is why I disagree when people say that he would love Lizzie/Josie/Landon/ or any of Hope’s potential love interests. He wouldn’t outright kill them like he he did with Rebekah’s lovers (as I said, he did grow throughout the series), but he definitely wouldn’t embrace them into the family with open arms. At best, he would be standoffish. At worst, he would be one of those annoying creepy parents that tell their child’s boyfriend/girlfriend “I’m the number one person in their life. I loved them first.”

Honestly I’m trying to think of a time when Klaus actually accepted one of his siblings love interests into the family. Marcel and Hayley don’t count. He literally adopted Marcel as a son. He raised Marcel and brought him into the family before Marcel and Rebekah got into their sick little relationship. He first accepted Hayley (not because of Elijah) but because she was the mother of his child and then because he actually grew to like her. But other than Marcel and Hayley, I don’t think he was ever really that welcoming to any of his siblings’ girlfriends/boyfriends. Maybe Keelin? But did Keelin and Klaus even talk?

So, yeah, Klaus wouldn’t disapprove of Hope’s relationships whether it romantic or platonic. But I don’t think he would encourage it or embrace any of Hope’s friends as family. I do think he would fuss and throw a tantrum if Hope prioritized any of her relationships over him. Wasn’t he jealous of the mere idea of Hope liking Elijah (someone he loves and obviously views a family)?

Honestly, if he was still alive, I don’t think Hope and Klaus would have a good relationship. With her resentment towards him for the years of abandonment and his role in the death of her mother, Hope would probably prioritize her friends/school over her relationship with her dad. And I think Klaus, with his jealousy and controlling tendencies, would have a major issue with Hope prioritizing anything else over him.

If the show had good writing Hope would absolutely resent him at first.

I think a good part of why Hope forgave him in canon in season five was because she was gonna die at first, and then he was the one who would die and she was grieving enough, she had already lost her mother a week ago and I dont think she wanted her father to die having a bad relationship with her. She was in pain, she was vulnerable and she knew she was never gonna see her father again, so she chose to let go from all their issues and just spend their last days together.

But it's just so bad developed. I believe Hope resented Elijah not just because of his "part" in her mother's death, but because of how much Klaus loved him as well. Hope was begging for the attention that Elijah didn't want and yet received every single day just by existing, and even her mother was clearly still hung up on him. How would that make a little girl feel? Imagine you grow up hearing stories about your loving uncle, who continously prioritizes family, only for him to turn around, force himself to forget all of you, leave your mother and your father unable to fully move on with their lives and the moment you finally see him again after almost a decade, he hasn't only "killed" your mother, now he's gonna take your only living parent - the one who had no problem ignoring your existence because he was too busy staring at his brother playing the piano - with him as well.

Hope knew Hayley was still in love with Elijah even years after their breakup, her mother basically asked her in the afterlife to tell her uncle she still loved him, her own father endangered everyone in New Orleans, including herself and her kidnapped mother, just because Elijah broke his heart: he did not care he was driving both of them closer to their deaths, his brother had hurt him and he needed to make everyone around him pay, his own daughter included.

In my opinion, Klaus’s priorities have always been very obvious:

Klaus himself

Elijah/Hope

Whatever love interest he feels like entertaining at the moment/Rebekah

His other siblings/Marcel = Hayley, in case he's seeing them as family at the moment

And yes, in that order. Klaus didn't know how to parent his child now that Hayley was gone and Elijah dying no matter what, and most importantly, he didn't want to. He only knew what Hope meant to him, not who she was (which, personally, infuriates me. If you're gonna create a show centered around a magical baby who shouldn't even exist in the first place and the insane maniac who happens to be her father, at least make her father get to raise her).

The Originals being centered around Hope was, in my opinion, a big mistake. Her existence wasn't a problem for me (if anything, I would make her first appearance later in the show, season three/four, perhaps), but for a show called The Originals, the Mikaelson sure don't appear a lot. I think that's the biggest problem people have with the show, not the Mikaelson being out of character, which is ironic, in my opinion, considering only klaroline and kalijah stans seem to believe that.

In the universe's canon, I just can't see Hope having a stable relationship with any of her paternal family, her father included, had he lived. I'm not saying they would've been constantly fighting, but I do think it would be a constant fragile line in their relationship where Hope would just try to ignore how much he hurt her during her early life, only for them to get into a fight about it, and then go back to ignore it. If Hayley had lived or been resurrected, I see Klaus and Hope's relationship being kinda the same as what I stated, perhaps slightly more sour, perhaps not, because I certainly see Hayley being mad at Klaus for being so careless with her life.

I personally believe Hayley and Cami wouldn't have allowed anything of what happened to the family in season five, Elijah and Klaus practically switched personalities, all the klayley and klaroline moments were so obviously meant for Camille and her relationship with Klaus, Caroline was absolutely out of character, and everything was very rushed and poorly developed.

Thanks for the ask!

[lenaperseveranceoxton]

It's time I let the cat out of the bag after alluding to it for too long. Since the release of Overwatch: Declassified, I've been working on an entire rewrite of Overwatch's canon. While setting it up on a Miraheze wiki, I've also been writing a story for Lena on Archive of Our Own that fleshes everything out to a highly unnecessary extent, and it has over 22,000 words so far. The story is more self-indulgent than anything, so I don't expect anyone to read it, but it's been easier to write to my heart's content and condense everything for the wiki afterward.

(If you only read the wiki, then you'd be missing out on a lot of Lemon Tea and Dad: 76 fluff and angst, as it is my rewrite, after all, but that'd be your loss.)

I have no idea when I'll make these two projects of mine public, if ever, but as of right now, I've written all the way up to the start of London Calling #2, so it might not be so far off. (This is why I was talking about Lizzy the other day!)

What I'll make public now, however, is a screenshot from the last update I made on Lena's page.

Realistically, I can't release anything until I finish writing the timeline of at least the major overarching story between Overwatch, Talon, and Null Sector. For reference, though, Mondatta died on March 15th, 2076, Zero Hour takes place in late February of 2077, and Overwatch 2's Story Missions take place in mid-April of the same year, making Lena twenty-seven in the present day. (I just really hated Overwatch 2's two-year time skip.)

The "Early Life" section I've written isn't the cleanest it could be, but I have no writing experience, and Lena being a teenager is pretty vital to their character, I'd say, so cut me some slack. The idea was that Lena would enlist in the RAF as soon as possible with forged documents and get accepted on the spot because the RAF has been struggling with a lack of interest from the public, and they would only fly the Slipstream mere months later because the RAF bribed someone from the UN to make it happen. Here, take a screenshot of something I wrote on Jack's page as a note for my plans for him, as well, to make things easier.

I liked this idea because-- you know what? Have another screenshot, this time from Archive of Our Own! Wow, I am just full of surprises today.

All right, all right. Why am I sharing all of this? Well, dear reader, I implore you to take note of when I revised Lena's wiki page. Now, imagine my reaction when I read this description from Hazard's story yesterday:

(My reaction:)

Now, imagine my shock when I saw this page:

(My shock:)

I get it isn't exactly an unheard-of trope, but SERIOUSLY?

Now, I have my Overwatch heroes I don't like all too much, but I've never had a hero I've outright hated. This guy, however? He took everything from me. He straight-up does not exist in my canon. I do not perceive him.

The Phreaks can still exist, even the members introduced in his comic because they're cool, but I guess the Oasis subplot will just never happen without Hazard. (For that, I hope it doesn't have massive ramifications on Blizzard's canon and overarching lore, or else it'll get real messy for me.)

On the bright side, I suddenly don't feel bad for completely deleting characters in my perception of Overwatch's canon. It is NOT looking good for Kiriko right now...

(EDIT: I thought my excuse for Lena making it into the RAF on the spot with forged documents was bad, but according to a thread I saw on Bluesky, Hazard joining the military to pay for his education doesn't make sense, either-- not in a pre-Omnic Crisis world, anyway. Granted, the early life I've written for Lena also accounts for the fact that these military branches went through what was practically World War III, but you guys are the official writers! You can't just leave us with that glaring issue with no explanation! That being said, after some cooling down, I'll probably keep Hazard in my canon, after all, and let him grow up with two Omnic Crisis veterans who met on the field for parents, neither of whom will die. That way, they could push him to join the military after secondary school amid their low enlistment, and he would then continue the cycle of upholding their "system" before eventually losing his limbs to an IED while raiding the hideout of some infamous criminal with ties to Talon, I guess. Once the military leaves him out to dry, he would feel like he has no choice but to deal with The Phreaks, only to realize that he's no better than them; they'd all been wronged by the system. Additionally, meeting Susannah and Revel could be a character-defining moment where he learns to respect omnickind, which he'd been taught to hate his entire life. I think Susannah deserves better than Hazard, but fine, I'll begrudgingly allow their canon relationship to persist, as well. As for Kiriko, I'll say it: her age aside, her fox powers are also ridiculous. While the powers of The Iris deserve to go unexplained, I'm pretty sure the old writers also said Zenyatta's kit is not canon. Kiriko, meanwhile, uses everything in her cinematic. Her fox shrine lets her eat as many donuts as she wants. Ugh, I hate most of Overwatch 2's heroes' writing. Maybe it's for the best that Venture doesn't have any. Don't ruin them for me, Blizzard.)

[tommyxgrace-always]

Tommy -Ada bond

He actually went to her for everything. They came a long way since s2, when she had said this…

Personal, Business or Politics. He relied on her on all aspects. I especially love how he spoke to Ada about Grace. As if he knew, she is the only one who could remotely understand why and what he feels. She lost the love of her life too, she and Grace got along well. She was the most natural choice.

Here’s a recap of how he gradually relied on her over the years.

🌿In s2, Ada is the one Tommy trusts to post his letter to NY incase if he dies on derby day.

🌿In s3, Ada stays with Tommy and Charlie at Arrow house after Grace’s death. Later Tommy asks her to handle his Boston company for him. She also helps set up the meeting with Russian communists that Tommy requests.

🌿 In s4, Ada is keeping the family together for him. She is his source and support when he is outcast from the family. He asks Ada to set up a meeting with Jessie Eden, she even calls out loud what Tommy refuses to admit “he is becoming hopeful”

🌿 In s5, she is his political advisor. He rants about his nightmares and fears to her. Not even Polly. He also talks to her about Grace, seeing her hallucinations. What he feels when he sees it etc. he is at his most vulnerable at that point.

🌿 In s6, he trusts her to handle the Mosleys, Gina and Uncle Jack in his absence while Ruby is sick. He even asks her to help with overseeing his businesses, she visits his office and the shop on his behalf. Interesting when Lizzie rants to Ada about wanting a normal man, we do not see Ada react or agree to her. Ada knows her brother and who he is, his pain and suffering. She doesn’t judge him as a bad husband in that moment or any moment. Because she knows, she must be feeling pity for Lizzie but she doesn’t blame Tommy for her woes.

Following this post:

[yutopia-eleftheria]

Partinus Family Headcanons (Christmas 2022 Special)

This one will contain OC’s. They are visible in the drawing below.

- Edgar has three siblings, more specifically three sisters ; he is the only boy among the children.

- He has a twin sister named Melody, and she was born before him, making her the oldest sibling.

- Loreena is a year younger than Edgar and Melody. Their last sister, Milly, was born seven years after Loreena.

- Their parents’ names are Finley and Victoria. Edgar’s second name, Arthur, comes from his uncle. Moreover, the children are said to look like their mother, as she also shares blue hair, with different tones. The only one that doesn’t share the same hair tone as their mother is Loreena, as the combination with Finley’s dark hair made her hair look darker than her siblings.

- They are really close with their cousins David and Elizabeth, nicknamed Lizzy by her family.

- Their parents were very loving, but they were always with their mother since their father was often away because of work.

- The family was happy until a plane crash occured and their sister Loreena went missing. She was believed to be dead (She was 3 and her siblings were 4).

- Despite all of that, they tried their best to live on with that loss. The parents were strong together.

- Unfortunately, one day, Victoria died some time after Milly was born, leaving her husband alone to take care of the three children.

- Since he was almost never home, he started to freak out as he thought he could never be able to do it alone without his wife. He thought he could do it one day with her, but she was gone way too soon...

- Finley lost his mind and ultimately decided to experiment on his children, starting with his only son Edgar. As he was taught to be a gentleman, he protected his sisters as he did not wanted his father to experiment and harm them, especially considering Milly was just a newborn.

- He got experimented on endlessly for an entire week. Thankfully, he was freed by his best friend Philip who was heavily worried of his absence. His family reacted quickly and brought the girls to safety. they were all alone when they find them, as their father was at work.

- Some time after that horrible discovery, Aaron Adams adopted the Partinus children. However, Melody was very distant and even mean to him.

- After everything that happened with her father (literally everything at once), Melody grew hateful and violent, the perfect opposite of her brother. She was even in really bad terms with Edgar. It was said by the doctors that it must be a trauma about her father’s doings that made her that way.

- What might be another proof of that “mental illness” is the fact that she always do different hairstyles everytime, showing her possible different levels of violence according to the doctors. She even smokes without her brother and foster father ; she said it helps her calm her nerves.

- She may seem hateful towards her twin brother, but in reality she loves him. Deep down Edgar knows that too, and he was never mad at her because he knew her condition. However, he can’t stand the fact that what his father did made her so different to the point of violence due to trauma.

- Loreena was taken care of by a loving family in Italy after she was found and saved by them from the crash.

- She doesn’t like her eye color ; she is envious of her siblings’ beautiful eyes.

- Loreena was the opposite of Melody ; she was pretty mean when she was young, but she grew a lot calmer over time.

- Edgar never thought at any second that she was dead, he kept on believing that she was safe wherever she was and that they would hopefully meet again one day.

- Despite her young age, Milly loves make up and stylish stuff.

- Their birthday dates :

Melody and Edgar : July 24th (Leo)

Loreena : November 20th (Scorpio)

Milly : March 1st (Pisces)

Elizabeth : May 17th (Taurus) {She shares the same birthday as Byron Love)

David : March 3rd (Pisces)

Aaron : December 17th

- Not all family members play football : Edgar plays as a forward, for the others :

Melody : Defender (n°3)

Loreena : Defender (n°2) and Manager

David : None (He doesn’t play football but he loves watching his family playing football.)

Elizabeth : Midfielder (n°16) and Manager of Knights of Queen

- Edgar taught Excalibur to Elizabeth.

- Melody wants to be a Math Teacher when she grow up.

- Both twins are Demi : Edgar is a Demiboy whereas Melody is a Demigirl.

- Since she lives in Italy for quite some time, Loreena really like the Italian team too. She even fell in love with one of their members, Raffaele Generani.

- Melody, on the other hand, fell in love with Joseph King’s brother James.

- Edgar has different relationships throughout his life :

He was with Thiago for a year.

He was with Sue but it didn’t last long because of their opposite personalities.

He stayed with Camellia for a fairly good amount of time.

He ultimately ended up with a woman named Elieth who is also from England. (She is German too !)

-Their mother got their first children at a fairly young age : She was 21 when she had Edgar and Melody, and she had Loreena a year later. However, she met her demise a few moments after giving birth to Milly. Which unfortunately means that she died way too soon, being only 29 years old. Moreover, she was born on February 3rd.

- Some of the IRL football players exists in this world too. Harry Kane exists in this world and he was like a mentor to Edgar. It was also him that helped him come back to football after what happened to his father. Considering Aaron Adams had a lot to deal with those 3 children and training the children, Harry often took care of Edgar and that made him better and give him more confidence about his capacities. He is like an idol to Edgar. Harry saw his younger self in Edgar too. People even associated a song for their relationship since Harry helped Edgar to get through this “shadow of him” ; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_FkM0S-PgY&ab_channel=lyricmaker102 

- Because of her mental illness, Melody can also be rude and violent towards her cousins, but also towards Harry Kane. But since they know about her condition, they don’t reply or do anything, otherwise this could be worse.

- Their heights and weights :

Edgar : 5′6″ (166cm) and 101lbs (46kg) ~~~as a 14 years old.

Melody : 5′3″ (160cm) and 112lbs (51kg) ~~~as a 14 years old.

Loreena : 5′1″ (153cm) and 93lbs (42kg) ~~~as a 13 years old.

Milly : 3′10″ (116cm) and 46lbs (21kg) ~~~as a 6 years old.

David : 5′8″ (173cm) and 137lbs (62kg) ~~~as a 16 years old.

Elizabeth 5′0″ (150cm) and 104lbs (47kg) ~~~as a 13 years old.

Aaron :  5′10″ (178cm) and 159lbs (72kg) ~~~as a 39 years old.

Victoria Partinus, Edgar and the girls’ mother

[storytellerofuntoldlegends]

an icarus and his sun: chapter 10

A/N: y’all ever think about that one empires episode of pearl’s where she helps sausage fight off a raid and that turns into a pvp battle between them, and she absolutely destroys him? yeah me too. also check out this awesome art by @amostfoolishgold​! anyway back to jimmy pov!

Warnings: injury, unconsciousness, fevers, talk of death, violence, corruption/infection, self-blame

AO3 Link - Tumblr Masterpost

-

The sun was nearing the horizon, casting the Overgrown in a golden glow. The castle was beginning to take shape, but they had unfortunately run low on materials, and Joel and Lizzie weren’t back from their gathering trip yet. So for the moment, they all just sat in the half-constructed shell of a castle, having light conversation as they waited for Joel and Lizzie to arrive. But soon enough, the conversation dwindled into an awkward silence. That is, until Gem stood up with a determined look in her eyes and a gentle smile.

“Why don’t we head to my empire for dinner? We’ve been working hard all day and could use a break!” she said brightly. Jimmy wasn’t sure how he felt about Gem quite yet, after everything that had happened- but she and Pearl had been a huge help. Meanwhile Shelby looked intrigued by the offer, and while Katherine first nervously glanced to the horizon, she looked back to Gem with a smile.

“That is very kind of you, Gem. I’d love to- we should probably just leave a note for Joel and Lizzie to let them know where we’ve gone,” Katherine said, standing up as well. Gem looked to Jimmy semi-nervously- and well, Jimmy was always a bit of a softie, wasn’t he? He smiled at Gem and stood up too.

“That does sound nice, thank you for inviting us,” Jimmy said. Gem beamed, and Pearl looked relieved as she stood up next to Gem.

“Well, you definitely won’t see me complaining about free food!” Shelby chimed in, hopping up to her feet. That caused the group to break into laughter, and the air between them felt comfortable again.

Once Katherine had written the note and put it where Lizzie and Joel could easily find it, the five of them (minus Pearl, who had wings) equipped their elytra and flew off to the Crystal Cliffs. When they first arrived there, everything seemed normal. The grand cliffs themselves, the buildings nestled in and around them, the towers- it was a beautiful and mystical place. But there was something blue, white, and gold that stood out in a heap on the ground near one of the buildings- a very familiar something blue, white and gold.

“Oh my god-” Gem started, landing on the ground beside the figure.

“Is that-” Pearl said, unable to finish the thought as she landed just behind Gem.

“Scott?” Jimmy finished, voice shaking as he came in for a bit of an unsteady landing a few feet away from where Scott laid on the ground, breathing shallow and upon a closer look, something red pulsing and spreading beneath his skin like some sort of vine. Jimmy barely registered Katherine and Shelby landing on either side of him, too focused on what was before him.

“This- this red stuff reminds me of the redstone spikes in Fwhip’s empire- or maybe something from the nether?” Gem pondered as she knelt beside Scott, a purple glow coming over her hand as she reached out towards the infection in his arm.

“I’ve seen that before,” Shelby said, voice sounding distant and laced with horror. Everyone turned to look at her, surprised to hear such a terrified tone of voice from the usually enthusiastic gnome.

“The infection?” Pearl asked.

“The corruption. I’ve seen it happen to my people back home, until it consumed them until there was nothing left- it’s why I came here, to try and find a cure or some way to stop it. But nothing worked,” Shelby explained shakily, sounding like she was on the verge of tears. Jimmy felt like he was going to cry too- and some awful part of himself thought that he should be glad that this happened to Scott, that it served him right after betraying Jimmy and breaking his heart- but he couldn’t. Despite everything Scott had done, despite never wanting to see Scott again- none of that meant that Jimmy didn’t want a world where the winged elf wasn’t in it. And what about what Pearl had said? Scott didn’t seem happy with Fwhip either, but now Jimmy would never know the truth. Not if it died with Scott.

Jimmy was so wrapped up in his conflicted mess of emotions that he didn’t even notice that someone else had flown in until Katherine let out a sharp gasp. He tore his gaze away from Scott to see what had caused that reaction from Katherine- and saw Fwhip. A mix of anger and terror boiled in his veins and swirled in his stomach at the sight of him. Fwhip looked baffled to see so many people in Gem’s empire, and plastered on a forced friendly smile. Jimmy’s hand found Katherine’s, and she squeezed it back tightly with no intention of letting go.

“Gem! Hi, so I wanted to smooth things over- I think we left things on a bad note-”

“What did you do to Scott,” Gem demanded, cutting off Fwhip as she stood up from beside Scott. Purple sparks danced in the air around her, and Jimmy swallowed nervously- he didn’t think he had ever seen Gem seem so intimidating before. Jimmy was relieved to see that Fwhip looked nervous too.

“Well, I haven’t seen Scott since our meeting, he seemed upset when he left- weird that he ended up here- y’know I was actually gonna go and talk to him after you-”

“If by talk, you mean do whatever you did to Scott to us?!” Pearl demanded, hand on the hilt of her sword as she took a step forward to stand beside Gem.

“I didn’t-”

“I’ve had enough of your lies, Fwhip. What. Did. You. Do,” Gem said evenly. Fwhip swallowed nervously, before sighing and finally giving in.

“Okay, so I may have set a few traps in his empire and got Sausage to help me with letting a raid infiltrate his village and the surrounding lands- but I figured Scott could handle a few traps and some mobs, it was only meant to be a warning, I never meant to kill him! He must have really gotten soft if he couldn’t deal with it,” Fwhip rambled. Gem and Pearl seemed semi-satisfied with his answer, but Pearl kept her hand on her sword and purple sparks still danced around Gem. But there was something that Fwhip said that bothered Jimmy, and along with what Pearl had said… guilt was beginning to settle in the pit of his stomach.

“What do you mean by that?” Jimmy asked tentatively. Fwhip let out a harsh laugh, turning to Jimmy incredulously.

“The idiot actually fell for you. He was just supposed to be a distraction, a contingency plan to make sure you wouldn’t be trouble. But he got in too deep, and look where that got him,” Fwhip scoffed, looking down at Scott’s deathly still form in disdain. Guilt was crashing on Jimmy in waves now. He had pushed Scott away. Scott had actually cared about him and he pushed him away. And then he had no one to go to for help when Fwhip decided to send a “warning” and got hurt as a result.

“You’re lucky I’m a pacifist,” Katherine spat, more angry than Jimmy had ever heard her. He wished he could have shared her anger, shouted at Fwhip too- but Jimmy just felt numb.

“Well unluckily for Fwhip, I don’t have that problem,” Pearl fumed, drawing her sword. Fwhip started to scramble back as Pearl leapt at him. His backwards stumble turned into a run, and Pearl kept pace with him just fine, using her wings if necessary and brandishing her sword to chase him away.

“Pearl can handle him- can you three help me get Scott to the apothecary? I’d do it by myself, but he’s tall and there’s the bulk of his wings to worry about too,” Gem asked, looking down at Scott worriedly.

“Erm- right, of course,” Jimmy said, letting go of Katherine’s hand to join Gem at Scott’s side.

“Hold on- go to the other side and help me turn him over,” Gem said. Jimmy did as she asked, and being mindful of his wings, the two of them gently rolled Scott over so he was on his back. Scott was feverish to the touch, and even unconscious his expression was contorted with pain.

“He’s hot,” Jimmy said, distant horror in his tone.

“Now isn’t the time for that, Jimmy,” Gem teased, trying to lessen the tension in the air. Jimmy’s face scrunched up in irritation as he half-heartedly glared at her.

“He has a fever, Gem,” Jimmy huffed. Gem laughed nervously.

“I know, I know, just trying to make this less terrible than it is,” Gem sighed. Jimmy gave her a weak smile, and together the two of them gently lifted Scott up. Jimmy ended up mostly holding Scott, while Gem supported his wings. Scott’s head lolled against his shoulder, labored breaths fanning his neck. Jimmy should have felt embarrassed or flustered, cradling Scott like this- but he was too concerned with how limp and unresponsive Scott felt in his arms.

“I’ll get the doors for you!” Shelby offered, quickly making her way over to the apothecary door. Katherine hovered around Jimmy and Gem semi-anxiously, making sure that they had a good hold on Scott as they made their way over to the apothecary. But all went well, and they were able to safely transport Scott into one of the apothecary beds. He had begun to shiver and tremble every so often now, and Jimmy could have sworn the corruption had spread, reaching his fingertips.

“There’s gotta be a way to stop that, or at least slow it down,” Gem murmured in thought, pulling up a chair to sit at Scott’s side. She reached out to the cut where the corruption on Scott’s arm stemmed from, hand glowing purple again. She closed her hand over it, and her eyes began to glow the same purple as her hand. But then the glow flickered, turning red for a moment before it dissipated entirely and Gem drew her hand back with a yelp, stumbling backwards out of her seat beside Scott’s bed. Jimmy scrambled over to help her up, eyes darting nervously between her and Scott.

“Is everything alright? I chased Fwhip off, but I swear if he’s done something in here…” Pearl trailed off as she walked into the apothecary, eyes zeroing on Gem as she rubbed at her temples.

“I’m fine. The corruption- it fought back. It’s… alive, somehow,” Gem said with morbid curiosity in her tone.

“It’s a type of fungus. That’s as much as my people could figure out before I came here to try and find a cure. The red stuff is everywhere in my old home- even if you tried to get rid of it, it would just come back. And in the cases where it latched onto a person… there was no getting it out,” Shelby explained, sounding like she was going to cry. Gem hummed thoughtfully.

“Did you try any sort of magic with it?” she asked.

“No, my people were not magic-users- in fact I’d hardly seen magic before I came here, where the air seems charged with the stuff,” Shelby replied, gesturing around her. A determined expression came over Gem’s face.

“Then I’m not gonna stop trying. I don’t know if I can fully fight off the corruption, but I definitely think I can slow its spread. In the meantime, we’re gonna need to get Scott’s fever down- at this rate, that’ll kill him before the corruption will,” Gem said, resting the back of her hand on Scott’s forehead and frowning.

“He’s probably a little beat-up too- Fwhip did say he trapped his empire,” Katherine added. Gem nodded in agreement.

“We’ll need cool water and cloth to make a compress for his forehead- and I should have some healing potions around here- it couldn’t hurt to brew some more though too, just in case,” Gem rambled, starting to stand up before Pearl put up a hand.

“You two stay here with Scott, I know where you keep things around here. Katherine, Shelby and I can worry about getting things for you,” she soothed. Jimmy tilted his head in confusion.

“Wait, I can help get things too…” Jimmy trailed off uncertainly.

“You can help if you want. I just figured you’d wanna stick by Scott,” Pearl shrugged with a gentle smile. Jimmy flushed slightly as he looked down at the floor, away from Pearl’s knowing stare.

“I… yeah. I’ll stick by Scott,” he said softly, gaze shifting to look at the winged elf who always managed to make his emotions into a muddled mess. Scott was an enemy, a friend, a- a something, then an enemy again- but whatever Scott was to Jimmy now, he knew one thing: he wasn’t letting Scott out of his sight again. Doing so the last time caused this to happen. He had to be there if- no, when Scott woke up. He had to apologize for pushing him away, and hope that maybe Scott still cared about him after everything that had happened to accept it.

-

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[weeb-writor]

Bittersweet Arguments

Heyo! Today I have a Cove x Reader! He is from a visual novel called Our Life: Beginning and always. Its available on Steam and itch.io for free! But I do encourage you all to get the dlc is it is more than worth it. It is inclusive of all race, sexual orientation and pronouns/gender. Also all the characters are just amazing and loveable. I could go on and on about this game but let me shut up so you all can read^^

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Cove Holden x GN!Reader

You and cove get into a bad argument and picking up the pieces is hard.

Word Count: 2.4k(not beta read)

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“Cove hasn't talked to you…yeah I’m just worried, they haven't gone more than a week without speaking since they met. They’re going on week 3 soon… yeah I know… yeah… alright I let you know what I can find out.” Ma said, hanging up with a sigh. You rounded the corner glancing at her as you plopped down on the sofa.

“We're not 8 any more, you don't have to call Cliff anytime we get in a fight.” you said with a chuckle.

“Honey, that's the thing, you and cove have never fought. We called about Lizzie plenty of times but you… it's just parents being parents. We're just worried.” She said stroking your hair. You grasped her hand and gave it a squeeze before you got up.

“Don’t be.” You said as you went up to your room. Well you were packing so really it was just a room with a bed. You plopped down face first into it. You just laid there mind racing a mile a minute. The fight, the disagreements, the tears played over and over again. It was simple at first and then it wasn't. Then it was yelling, arms flailing, and angry tears. What would happen next? It was a fear you thought that was already put to rest but it came again, and again, and again. Each time it was more and more muddled. What would happen to you both? How would long distance work? Were you supposed to tell your parents about your engagement? Who would come visit who? How often? No matter what question it was, the answer always resulted in more questions. 

To you it was like Cove didn't trust you, like he didn't believe you loved him enough to do anything to make it work. For Cove you were… well you don't know. He was silent about the issue of the future. It was like you were discussing it with yourself as if there isn't another person in the relationship. It was frustrating, it made you angry at him and at yourself for being angry at him. You grabbed your pillow which had become a bucket for your tears and you cried and screamed into it. Over time your tears and screams died down and you drifted into not a peaceful sleep but a painful one. When you woke up you stumbled down stairs in a trance and nearly rounded the corner before you heard it. You stopped in your tracks immediately and sunk to the floor. It was him, your love, the neighborhood boy, Cove Holden.

“How are they?” He spoke quietly.

“I can't lie to you and say they're fine but they are resting right now.” Mom said with a sigh.

“Tha… T-That’s fine but what about eating, drinking, packing, and leaving the house?” He stuttered nervously. You wanted to laugh. It was so Cove to still be nervous talking to someone he knew essentially his whole life.

“Yes, of course. We’ve made sure, nothing to worry about.” At that you heard a sigh of relief come from the green haired boy.

“Okay, okay good. Um could you just let me know if they need anything.” His voice was shaky like he wanted to cry.

“They need you, kid.” Your mom said slowly. There was a long silence at this. Was it actually long or were you just anxious you weren’t sure.

“...I need them more.” He said in a barely intelligible whisper. Goodbyes were said and stayed on the floor even as you heard mom coming your way. When she was in your sight her eyes widened but more in worry than surprised. You tilted your head at her and that’s when you felt it. Tears were cascading from your eyes. You wiped them away in surprise and rose to your feet.

“Im fine.” You said before jogging to your room where you curled into a ball as if to shield you from the impending doom. From this position you watched the sunset and the moon rise, almost unblinking. You felt tears soak your pillow, you had begun crying without realizing again.

This couldn't go on, you had to talk to Cove.

Muscle memory had kicked in from the one time you had snuck into Cove’s room and boom. You were sitting on his bedside stroking his hair as he slept. Just like you it seemed his sleep was anything but peaceful. His brow was creased and you couldn’t help but thumb along it prompting him to wake up. His eyes shot open and he blinked a while before he sighed. 

“Are you gonna be a dream or a nightmare.” he said softly.

“I'm in your nightmares?” You said glancing to the side. At this he shot up. Tears pulled in his eyes as he held his hand out to you. As soon as his fingers brushed your face he let out a quiet sob.

“So dream or nightmare then?” You said with watery eyes.

“An absolute dream.” He said with a firmness in him that was rare.

“Cove I don't want to talk about it right now, can we sleep...together.”

“Yes!” he shouted quietly, immediately making space for you under his blankets. You moved with equal amount of eagerness and soon for the first time in a while you felt truly at peace.

“Can...can I hold you.” You didn't say anything to his request, just moved closer and grabbed onto his nightshirt. Instantly you both fall into a deep peaceful sleep.

“Hey kid, I wanna talk…” Cliff trailed off awkwardly as he locked eyes with you. Cove was fast asleep, head in your lap and arms squeezing you. You smiled and put your finger to your lips. Cliff got the signal and walked out with a smile. Cove slept for 30 minutes more before his icy blue eyes met yours.

“Uh, wanna eat? I got all the ingredients for…” he didn’t need to finish the red flush of his face said enough. He was eating your favorite and you were eating his. You let off a quiet laugh.

“I’m feeling more peanut butter, honey, and banana sandwiches. Maybe some fruit.” You smiled down at him. His eyes lit up and you were dragged into the kitchen and now you both were about done making the sandwiches.

“What are you glaring at my sandwiches for?” You jokingly accused him.

“There isn’t enough honey on it, honey.” He said poking your forehead. You laughed and he laughed and then you both went to sit at the table. Mr. Holden was there too and made moves to get up but was stopped by the both of you shouting no. Awkwardly he sat back down.

“So, how’s packing coming? Coves been putting it off, so much.” He asked you gently.

“I’m pretty much done! Nothing in my room but a bed now.” You said with a smile.

“That’s great, still planning on leaving for college?” He asked with caution.

“Yeah, that’s the plan. I’m going to miss having you around.” You said with a small smile. The impromptu breakfast was over soon after this and you were left alone with cove again. Questions about the future loomed over you and this time you were going to get answers.

“Can... we talk?” You said staring at him with determination.

“Yes..” he trailed off

“No Cove, can we really talk? Like talk things out, like argue and come to a consensus.”

“Yes but I just don’t... want us to fight” he said playing with his hands.

“Arguments are normal cove, hell they’re healthy even. The unhealthy part is what you do during the argument and what you do after. Of course, we could try just talking first.” You smiled at him hoping to ease his nervousness.

“So you mean to say storming off to your son's room and pacing isn't a healthy way of closing an argument?” He said with a joking tone.

“Well if we ever get to the talk about the future, maybe one day you could see just how healthy it is…” You trailed off looking at him hopefully. Cove let out one of his cute squeaks as he flushed red. He raked his fingers through his hair before he grabbed your hand and pulled you to the sofa.

“Let's… talk then.” he said, glancing at you and then away.

“Alright, Cove, I'm going far away. What you are asking to do is impractical, I'm asking you not to do it.” You said seriously.

“It's 36 hours by car on the fastest route and 3 hours and 29 minutes by plane, it's not impractical, it's totally possible.” He said with unusually fierce eyes.

“Sure but you want to do it every two weeks, twice a month! It's not safe for you to drive that long. Think of the money it’ll cost to fly or put gas in your car. Also you'll have your own bills now, your own place. It's not all that possible.” You spoke firmly.

“Doesn't matter… i'll make it possible and safe. If I need to, I'll stay with my dad for a while. Moving out isn’t that big of a deal” He said not backing down

“No Cove, do you hear yourself? You’ve wanted to move out and be in your own place for a while. What happened to the boy who wanted to do everything the way he wanted without listening to set rules or a predetermined plan?”

“This isn't someone's predetermined plan for me, it's what I want.”

“What about what I want?” you said softly

“Is what you want… not to be around me? Or am I too.. too clingy for you? Cause if so I promise I won't intrude too much.. And I’ll give you space-”

“No! Its nothing like that! You are never gonna be too clingy for me, you could get clinger if you wanted. I just want you to be safe, okay?” You said cutting that thought off immediately

“I promise I will be then.” He said hesitantly.

“Baby, the whole action of it isn't safe physically or financially for either of us right now. I'm not saying you can't come but what about once every month or even better ill come back here every break I have. They aren't frequent but I'd be with you for a while.”

“It's not enough!” He said, raising his voice at you. It's the first time he’d ever done it but you didn't respond, you just blinked at him and waited for him to continue.

“I need to see you more than that.. I just have to.” He said, looking away from you.

“Why? We’ve spent weeks apart before. Every summer you leave and we come out of it fine, it's the same.”

“No its not the same, at all.” He spoke firmly as his eyes got misty but he pressed on. “When I went with my mom I knew where you were, what you were most likely doing. It was routine, sunset bird is our place. Even if something new comes along I'm never out of the loop… but when you leave you’ll be in a new place with different people and new things you can experience. You’ll be in a place with all four seasons, they get snow! I won't know what you're doing any more and we might not even be on the same wavelength any more. You’ll make new friends and meet people who won't be afraid to lay in bed with you or stutter a lot or make weird noises. You’ll be changing and I’ll still be the same 8 year old cry baby you met on the poppy hill… you’ll leave and then you’ll disappear.” He said scrubbing at his tears. You stared at him before you started to laugh. You laughed so hard you started to cry.

“Let me get this straight, you want to come visit me so often because you're afraid I'll become this social butterfly and find better people than you, Miranda, and Terri? Me?” You were overcome with laughter again and paused to catch your breath. “I’m overly honest, pushy, a little demanding, and have “strange” interests. When have you ever known me to be easy to make friends with or be sociable with any other than you? You know I knew I was gonna marry you from the moment I laid eyes on you at the ripe age of 8? I wish some dumb college kid would try to change my plans i’d kill them… nothing is gonna take me away from you and I will always come home. Home, cove holden, is wherever you are.” Cove was hugging you in a second crying into your neck.

“I quite like your squeaks and weird noises by the way.” You could feel his face heat up in your neck as he laughed.

“Every break?”

“Every break longer than 2 days.”

“At my place… the whole time?”

“Duh I said I was going home.”

“Alright then, we agree. I want to come spend a break with you though, want to see your place.” He said squeezing you tighter.

“Of course… Also one last thing we need to put to bed.” Cove let out a groan at your words.

“Nothing bad at all. Just this.” You reached into your back pocket and pulled out a black velvet box. You handed it to cove as his eyes watered again.

“I know I already proposed but I wanted to get you something regardless. Its also so all these single people keep their grubby little paws off my love.” He blushed at you and whispered your name the way he always did when he was feeling embarrassed or overwhelmed. He opened it as tears fell down his face.

“Theres two?” 

“Yeah look at the inside of the bands.” Each one was engraved with your respective nicknames for each other.

“Were engaged we minus well look the part. This way everybody at my college knows I managed to lockdown the most amazing guy to ever grace sunset bird.” You said kissing his nose. He wasted no time putting his on and handing you yours.

“I love you.” He said, eyes no longer misty.

“I love you so much, Cove.” You echoed his sentiment.

“Wanna go to our hill, we have a lot to make up for. I’ve missed you so much.” He said, grabbing your hand. You nodded and you both turned to leave. You both quickly made eye contact with Clifford Holden who was misty eyed. You gathered he had been there for a while.

“Sho...Should I pretend i didn't just see or hear that as well?” He said his hand on his neck.

[calwrites]

Star Star Tours

Summary: You and Sebastian have been dating for a while now, but the public doesn’t know that yet. Keeping your secret causes some tension on James Corden’s Star Star Tours.

Pairing: Sebastian Stan x actress!reader

This is my first time writing for Marvel, so I hope people enjoy! It’s just something that I wrote really quick, but I love the bus tour video, and I thought this could be a cute story. Also, Sebastian was not in nearly enough of the disposable camera pictures.

It was no secret that press tours could be draining. Being stuck in a room for multiple days while people keep asking you the same questions over and over again even though they know that you can’t really answer them. And considering how big Infinity War is, it was no surprise that there were even more interviews than usual.

That was why you had been so excited when you had heard about James Corden’s bus tour. Getting to spend the day outside, surrounded by some of your costars, sounded like a vacation compared to being stuck in a chair all day. There was no doubt in your mind that it would be chaos. Of course, you would do you best to add to that chaos.

Still, as you glanced over at your boyfriend, you thought that maybe press tours weren’t all that bad. You and Sebastian had met while filming Civil War, but you hadn’t really talked much. Sebastian was pretty quiet, and you had worried that he found your loudness annoying, so you had focused on befriending your costars who seemed more receptive to your large personality.

It wasn’t until the press tour that you actually got to know Sebastian. You weren’t sure if you had been partnered with Sebastian and Anthony because someone thought Anthony might ease your nerves about your first Marvel press tour or if they hoped being stuck with two people as outgoing as you and Anthony might force Sebastian out of his shell. Either way, the three of you had been a hit that press tour. More importantly, Sebastian had asked you out shortly after Civil War premiered.

The two of you had been dating ever since. It had made interviews a bit difficult for both of you though. You had decided to keep your relationship private. In theory, you were going to go public after a few months, but the two of you had enjoyed having a part of your lives that was actually private. It was a surprise that no one had let it slip, considering both Tom Holland and Mark Ruffalo knew about the relationship. Still, it was hard ignoring dating rumors every time someone thought you must be with whatever costar you had smiled at that week.

“What are you thinking about?” Sebastian asked, glancing at you before looking back the road. He took one hand off the wheel and grabbed your hand, entwining your fingers.

“Nothing.” You knew that Sebastian wouldn’t buy it. Not when he had seen your goofy grin.

“Nothing? Wanna try again?”

“What if we went to the premiere together?” You kept your eyes on your hand, still entwined with Sebastian’s.

“Like together together?” Sebastian took his hand back so he could turn into the parking lot of the studio. You tried not to notice the slight frown that he wore as he thought about your idea.

“We don’t have to. It’s just that it’s been almost two years. I thought it could be a good time. Maybe everyone will be so focused on the movie that we wouldn’t be big news.” Sebastian didn’t answer as he parked. You could already see a producer rushing over to the car, no doubt to get your ready for the tour. “You don’t have to answer now. Let’s just enjoy the tour and we can talk about it later.”

Sebastian nodded in agreement and the two of you climbed out of the car and made your way over towards the bus.

After you got your mic and everything, you climbed up to the top of the bus, where James gave you a name tag after doing a little bit. Immediately, you rushed to the front row and took the seat next to Lizzie. The two of you had clicked immediately while filming Civil War, and she had been one of your best friends ever since. 

You noticed that Sebastian waited for a few more people to get on before he climbed on and took a seat at the back next to Winston. You tried not to read too much into the fact that he was sitting as far away from you as possible. It was possible, probable even, that he was keeping his distance just so neither of you slipped up on camera. It was a tactic you used quite often. But it was also possible that you had freaked him out when you proposed going public and now he was going to avoid you.

Shaking off the doubts in your head, you picked up the disposable camera that you had been given and started snapping pictures as everyone settled in. To your relief, Sebastian gave you a smile and a small wave when you pointed the camera at Paul and Letitia, catching him in the background. Before it could descend into total chaos, the bus began moving and the tour started.

You and Lizzie almost died laughing when Benedict had to put sunscreen on James’s legs, but he had a point. “Does anyone need face sunscreen?” you asked, waving the bottle of face sunscreen that you had thrown in your purse at the last minute. Very pointedly, you turned to Benedict and Hiddleston. “I’m looking at you two.”

“We get it, Y/N,” Anthony yelled from the back. “You’re a mom friend.” You stuck your tongue out in reply, mainly because flipping him off didn’t seem very TV friendly. Nevertheless, your sunscreen got passed around the bus. Paul tried to give it back to you without putting any on, claiming that he didn’t need any, which resulted in you and Lizzie basically wrestling him and putting it on his face yourselves. The laugh died in your throat as you began turning back to the front and caught sight of Sebastian’s grumpy face. You raised your eyebrows, but he looked away.

“What’s up with him?” Lizzie asked quietly. Apparently she had seen his expression too. You could only hope that no camera had caught it.

“Tell you later.” You tapped slightly on your mic and Lizzie nodded.

Luckily James began the tour before you could dwell on it any more. Between Don’s exaggerated pose when he took a picture of the coffee shop, getting into trouble with James for being “disruptive,” and the singalong, which you got way too into, you had almost forgotten about Sebastian’s stormy expression.

“This is actually Barbara Streisand’s holiday home,” James said, pointing at some strange, red building. “She actually designed it herself.”

“Is that true, Josh?” you called, spinning around so you could face him.

Josh shook his head. “Absolutely not.”

“Well what do you know? You’re just the bad guy. You’re just trying to cause trouble,” James complained.

“She’s his stepmom, so I think I trust him a bit more than you, James. Sorry.” You shrugged innocently at him before turning back around the air high five Josh. Again, as you were turning back to the front, you caught Sebastian’s eye. He was basically glaring at you.

“What?” you mouthed at him, which of course everyone behind you saw, causing them to turn to look at Sebastian too.

“Y/N, I am trying to give a tour, and you are being disruptive once again. I need eyes up front please.”

“But James,” you whined, huffing in your seat like a little kid, “Sebastian keeps looking at me. Tell him to stop.”

“Sebastian, I need all eyes on me, please. I am the reason you all paid to be here-”

“We have to pay for this?” Hiddleston asked, but James continued as if he hadn’t said anything.

“-so I need you to stop looking at Y/N and pay attention to me.”

“I didn’t even look at her. What am I not allowed to look around now?” Sebastian answered a bit too hotly. There was a brief moment where you could feel everyone look between the two of you, even James and Reggie, who had no idea why it was so strange that Sebastian had snapped like that.

“Geez, Mackie, control your man,” you joked, trying desperately to diffuse the tension.

“No way. Sebastian is not my man. He’s sitting with Winston, so he’s Winston’s problem today,” Mackie yelled back. Luckily, this caused Winston and Anthony to start bickering about who had to take care of Sebastian during the tour. Sebastian, of course, hated the attention and eventually agreed to behave and even gave you a very child-like “Sorry, Y/N.” You stuck your tongue out in response and turned back to give James your full attention.

You all continued the act of disconnected celebrities as James explained what waiting in line was. Hoping to get a better view of the “normal people,” you tried to stand on your chair like you were ogling some animal at the zoo, but almost immediately at least five different people were yelling at you to get down. Apparently it “wasn’t safe” to stand on top of chairs on top of a moving bus.

“Excuse me. I don’t mean to interrupt, but I have to use the bathroom. Can I use the bathroom?” You didn’t turn around this time, worried about seeing Sebastian staring at you again. Instead, you focused on the faux apologetic look on James’s face.

“I’m really sorry. The problem is that the rules on the tour is that you have to have appeared in three or more Marvel movies to use the bathroom. End credits scenes don’t count. Y/N, do you have to use the bathroom?”

“I haven’t been in three movies,” you pointed out.

“That’s right, you haven’t. So I hope you don’t have to use the bathroom. Tom Hiddleston, do you need to use the bathroom?”

“I’m actually okay.”

“Oh, so sorry Y/N. Sorry Josh. Maybe you should ask your stepmom Barbra Streisand if you can use the bathroom at her holiday home.”

“I don’t even have to go,” you protested as Lizzie died laughing next to you.

“Well that’s good because you can’t. Now, does anyone die in the next Avengers?”

The bus was quiet as you all looked at each other. Finally, Paul yelled, “Snitches end up in ditches!”

“I thought they got stitches first,” you whispered to Lizzie.

“Apparently Paul is skipping that part,” she replied. The two of you gave each other a look before dissolving into giggles at the thought of Paul actually throwing someone in a ditch.

The tour continued with more of James’s jokes before he had the bus pull over at a comic shop. A part of you was nervous to go inside. While most of the fans that you had met were nice, you knew that there were still a lot of comic fans who didn’t like your character, or how you played your character, or that you had been cast, or whatever. You gave Lizzie’s hand a nervous squeeze, which she returned, but really you wanted to be holding Sebastian’s hand. You were each other’s biggest supporter. Whenever one of you was feeling nervous, the other was normally right there to offer support.

But instead, you walked in separately.

Luckily, everyone seemed too starstruck to gripe about anything. It ended up being a pretty nice time. You signed some comics and chatted to some fans. One girl even told you about a tattoo dedicated to your character that she was going to get. You almost had a heart attack when she asked you to write down her favorite line of yours, so that she could add that to the tattoo. Afterwards, Mackie had teased you about how much your hand was shaking when you were writing it. It looked like Sebastian was about to say something, but then a camera was suddenly in your face and he disappeared to the other side of the store.

After buying a couple of comics for yourself, you and Lizzie found yourselves in the corner of the store playing with a Scarlet Witch doll that you had bought for her. You didn’t notice when she looked up with a small frown on her face, but you did feel the hand that came to rest on your waist. You looked around quickly, making sure that no cameras were on you, before meeting Sebastian’s eyes.

“What are you doing, Seb?” you whispered. Without you realizing, Lizzie snuck away to give the two of you some privacy. Or as much privacy as you can get when you’re wearing a mic and possibly being filmed.

“I just wanted to say I’m sorry about earlier. I guess I just got kind of jealous and I snapped a little.”

“Jealous?” You put your hand on Sebastian’s arm to keep him in place when you felt him begin to back away. “Jealous about what, Sebastian?”

“I don’t know.” He waved his hand around a bit at the rest of the group. “Just seeing your hands all over Paul and joking around with everyone around you.”

“Lizzie and I were forcibly putting sunscreen on Paul. I did that to you before we left the house this morning. I don’t think you have anything to be jealous about.” You couldn’t help but roll your eyes at him.

“Sometimes it just feels like you always have everyone’s attention and you’re joking around with all of them and you never pay attention to me.” You pressed your lips together to keep from laughing at the adorable pout on Sebastian’s face. “And I know that we kind of have to ignore each other sometimes because we don’t want people to know about us, but I just always wish that I could be joking around with you too. I have so much fun talking to you and being around you, and seeing other people having fun around you when I can’t is just annoying sometimes. It’s like I always want to be right next to you.”

You placed a gentle hand on Sebastian’s cheek, making him meet your eyes. “I always want to be next to you too. And most of the time when I’m joking around with other people, I’m wishing that you were there too. But right now, we should get back to the others. It’ll be a miracle if we haven’t been caught on camera.”

“Oh I asked Anthony to make sure that no one would be paying attention to this side of the store.”

“Is that why he’s been yelling for the past few minutes?”

“He’s the best choice for a distraction, unfortunately.” You grinned at Sebastian as you wrapped your arms around him. Smiling back, he planted a quick kiss on your forehead.

“That’s way too bold,” you scolded him. Still, you couldn’t help but laugh. “There’s no way we would be able to explain that away if anyone saw. Way too many questions.”

You began to walk away, but Sebastian pulled you back to him. “Let them ask questions. The premiere is soon and they’ll have their answers then.”

“Oh they will?” You raised your eyebrows in mock confusion.

“Of course. When we go together. How does that sound?”

“Sounds like a date.” The two of you smiled at each other and were about to lean in for a kiss when Anthony was suddenly pulling Sebastian away.

“Break it up, lovebirds. I thought I was providing a distraction so you two could make up, not so you could make out. Now come on, Sebastian. We need to take a picture with that Spiderman statue outside.” 

Sebastian gave you a shrug as Anthony dragged him outside. You rolled your eyes at their antics, then followed the rest of the cast as they began to make their way outside and back to the bus. You had stopped to admire Benedict’s drawing skills when Lizzie was suddenly clutching your arm and squealing. She, of course, had seen everything, though she assured you that everyone had tried their best to be as entertaining as possible on the other side of the store, so that no cameras would be on you.

You wore a smile for the rest of the tour. Lizzie kept teasing you every time you and Sebastian would sneak glances at each other. Not that you could really sneak glances when you had to turn around constantly to look at him. Once again, you got way too into the singalong. This time, Sebastian yelled encouragement at you as you sang off key.

By the time you reached the studio again, you had decided that this was really the best way to do a press tour. You waved goodbye to James and Hemsworth and you climbed off the bus. Before you could take more than a few steps, Sebastian had picked you up and was spinning you around.

“How have you two not spilled the beans yet?” Paul asked as everyone watched in amusement.

“You weren’t even being subtle at the comic shop,” Benedict pointed out.

“Y’all are lucky that the cameras love me so much that they weren’t looking at you,” Mackie joked.

Apparently, the cameras didn’t love Mackie as much as he thought. When the video came out, some eagle eyed fans spotted the two of you looking cozy in the background of a shot. Some people argued that it was impossible to say for certain that it was you and Sebastian, but your Twitter and Instagram notifications were full of people asking if you and Sebastian were dating.

The two of you decided to ignore the questions. Lucky for you, Marvel made it very clear to all of the interviewers that there should be no questions about anyone’s personal lives. All focus was to be on the movie. So you kept the fans guessing until the two of you showed up to the premiere arm in arm.

Unfortunately, there were plenty of people more focused on your relationship than on the movie, so there were plenty of articles about the two of you. Apparently, you were Marvel’s new power couple. As long as you had Sebastian, that was a title you could live with.

[pain-in-the-butler]

The time has come once again

The Bloodbath

“I’m simply one hell of a butler” says Sebastian as he starts cleaning as usual

Okay so Agni’s taking no prisoners

Work Nerd, Science Nerd, and Jock Nerd team up to form the Nerd Trifecta

Team One Brain Cell joins up with Phipps, who is quite possibly their only chance for survival

Ran-Mao remembers how Harcourt beat everyone in the unfortunately deleted round and said “Not in my backyard”

So far, everyone else has simply run away unscathed or grabbed a weapon they won’t use because the game doesn’t record weapons. Rip Tanaka

Day 1

Ran-Mao bringing the canon energy by adding a second weapon to her arsenal

Phipps somehow always turns into Team Dad during these, so I’m glad to see he’s finding time for his favorite hobbies

Undertaker up to his usual Sneaky Antics

It hasn’t even been twelve hours yet. Kind of impressive honestly

Considering Harcourt lost his mace, I’ll just assume the attack Grell “escaped” from was the vicious stabbing of his trim little schoolboy fingernails

Bad vibes

It appears that Lau also brought his canon game

Sebastian in the most recent chapters be like

I’ve actually never had this event come up before and it has to happen between two of the more innocent characters in the series;;;; god Lizzie you deserve better even in the Hunger Games Simulator

Where’s a Safety Nerd when you need one

What’s better than this? Guys bein dudes

This is probably what happened after Ciel left Weston

Sebastian will take care of this for ya, huh bud

Other events:

Agni practices his archery

Wolfram goes fishing

Othello finds a cave

Soma goes ‘splorin

Edward goes huntin

Day 1′s Deaths: Tanaka, Sieglinde, Lizzie, and Macmillan. Someday one of the ladies will win

Night 1

Butler slumber party in the woods, BYOYM (bring your own young master)

It takes a lot of energy to be this blond

I’m happy for her :)

Yeah I’ll bet you probably do Lau

A tonal shift so abrupt I got mental whiplash

Can we go back to when Grell was looking at the sky pls

Thought about science too hard. Got a concussion

Thought about Ciel dying too hard. Got an infection

Aww dad :( Hope you caught some fish tho

Looks like Harcourt won’t be winning this one, gang

I stg the hunger games simulator is misogynist because the ladies always DIE /j

Ran-Mao is hopefully here to prove the previous statement wrong

Other events:

Bard gets a hatchet

Undertaker also passes out from exhaustion

R!Ciel goes to sleep in a tree

Day 2

Oh you five are SO going in my burn book for this. It’s what Grell would’ve wanted

Ahaha just like in the real manga... right guys (;

Idk about you but I’m rooting for her

I don’t think the simulator could’ve picked four people who were less likely to team up than this

I would too if I saw my best friend was palling around with an opium dealer, a grim reaper with a lawn mower, and another grim reaper that the first grim reaper doesn’t like

Other events:

Othello chases Wolfram

That’s the only other event actually

That means today we lost O!Ciel, Mey-Rin, Harcourt, and Grell. ffs, I hope Ran-Mao kills all of you

Night 2

I’ve missed you, rare pair simulator

The “unknown sponsor” was Undertaker and the “fresh food” was O!Ciel

Confirmed: Lau doesn’t get high off his own supply

Once again a ceasefire between the strong hungry boys is formed

Girl, you don’t have to do that

“Did you kill Ciel?” Sebastian asks

“No that was William,” Othello says

Sebastian punches a tree so hard that it combusts. “God damn. Fuck” Sebastian says

Wolfram just realized I put him in the Hunger Games simulator

Other events:

Phipps thinks about “Are you winning son”

Undertaker gazes at space

Ronald becomes Lost Ronald

Soma passes out

Bard gets some water

Day 3

Damn Agni who haven’t you flirted with

Finny sees that Bard has water and thinks Bard cooked it himself, so he wants no part of that (might be burnt)

What did he even have that was worth stealing? A fish?

Well I can tell you who isn’t creating that smoke: Lau

“What’s worse than two young masters? No young masters. Now get over here and make a contract”

Everything about this sentence is a fever dream

Other events:

Undertaker decides he wants a slingy shot too

Edward chases Dad I mean Phipps

Othello gets some ouchies from picking berries

Night 3

When your young master dies, you just get an infection apparently

damn Finny’s playing hardball

I don’t think anything bad has actually happened to Bard yet. It’s just been a grand frolic the whole time

I barely remember reading the first Hunger Games but Ran-Mao’s the Foxface of this journey: she deserves to win and I just know she’ll die in the stupidest way possible

Sebastian’s like a cat that can’t reach the bird it wants to attack, so it attacks the nearest other thing instead. Poor Dad

Two white-haired anime boys and a not-white-haired anime boy talk about who will die tomorrow. Anime doesn’t exist yet so the white-haired anime boys don’t know their hair color automatically spells their doom

Other events:

Edward starts a fire, which means he’s capable of smoking opium

Ronald gets some medical supplies

Othello gets a hatchet

R!Ciel thinks about winning

Lau gets an entire explosive, but he won’t be able to light it, so no it’s no big deal

Day 4

In Soviet Hunger Games, white-haired anime boy kills you

But why murder someone when you could just mess with them

Other events:

Grey scares Bard

Finny goes hunting

Night 4

Have you four even killed anyone yet

The list of “people who didn’t start the manor fire and also don’t smoke opium” now consists of Lau and R!Ciel

The mood is too light now. Someone needs to die and it better not be Ran-Mao

At last, Father Phipps has chosen his son for this round

Agni gushes about all the hot guys he’s simultaneously in love with, giving Ran-Mao a clearer idea of who’s still alive

Day 5

Girl, it’s about time, go claim some trophies

Finny’s easily got the longest kill streak and it’s a little unnerving

Father Phipps finds a new secret fishing hole

Othello doesn’t

Lau continues to put in all the efforts of a kindergarten bully

Oh no. He’s a yandere

Other events:

Sebastian fucks around and explores the arena

Bard fucks around and hunts for tributes

Undertaker fucks around and sleeps

R!Ciel fucks around and picks flowers

Night 5

I’ve never met anyone who ships Sebastian/Undertaker but I know you’re out there

Okay, maybe these four are even less likely to team up than Phipps, Ronald, Undertaker, and Lau

Edward sees I’m making jokes about people who build fires and stays hidden

Day 6

Canonically, that is the only way R!Ciel would win a fight, so

I probably could have predicted this

I hope these are the faces they made when it happened

The “unknown sponsor” is R!Ciel and the “fresh food” is an ear that fell off his own head

I’m not sure if I should be concerned or unsurprised that Bard’s Hunger Games life is more chill than his canon life

the “unknown sponsor” was the fish and the “clean water” was “fish water”

Other events:

Ran-Mao gets her third weapon that she doesn’t want to use, which is a hatchet

Finny finds a river

Agni practices archery again, but he doesn’t kill anyone because he wants this to go on forever

Night 6

Ran-Mao I beg you please. Release us from this purgatory of mediocrity

And suddenly we’re back to canon Bard

I guess not everything can be canon

Other events:

Both Agni and Phipps pass out from exhaustion. It’s 2:50 a.m. so I should really be taking a page from their book, but unfortunately everyone refuses to die

The Feast

Finny has been a stone cold killer this entire match, so I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that the girl I wanted to win would get eliminated by him, but it still hurts ✌️😔

If you cheat on Othello, he will overpower you, killing you

Everyone else decided not to go to the Feast. Honestly, I don’t remember what the Feast is, but everyone who did go either murdered someone or got murdered, so I guess that was probably a good call

Day 7

I’ve had enough of this dude

Jesus Finny I can’t wait to see how many kills you got, I feel like you and Agni were the only two who took anyone down

Bard, Undertaker, Sebastian, and Phipps all hunt for other tributes but they’re useless and don’t kill anyone

Arena Event: Volcano Eruption

In one fell swoop, we lose Sebastian, Undertaker, R!Ciel, and Finny, jeez. But... that means it comes down to.............

FATHER PHIPPS VS. BARD

FATHER PHIPPS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wow... Unlike his manga counterpart, this boy coasted the whole time and won... He basically went on vacation and he actually won... But then again, it’s Hunger Games Simulator and nothing is sacred

Well I hope you learned a valuable lesson today. I hope you did at some point before you read my post, because you sure as hell learned nothing from this. Thank you for wasting precious minutes of your life with me 😏

[the-letter-horror-lover]

Forbidden

Senpai_fuckboy312

Summary:

Its the new year, high schoolers are going back to school and life is going on normally. Except Ciel Phantomhive realizes something weird about his Dance and Music teacher. Maybe it was the black hair or red eyes. Or maybe it was the fact that he made his heart race out of his little chest. Who knows?

So curious and frustrated about the reason, Ciel in his own little way investigates his teacher, Mr. Michaelis...

BUT will his friends get in the way? Will the fact that he's only 15 ruin everything that he slowly wants?

I DO NOT OWN ANY OF THE KUROSHITSUJI CHARACTERS AND I KNOW I'M NOT DOING THEY'RE REAL AGE. (Really they're only a year older and stuff) THIS IS JUST A WORK OF FICTION AND STUFF. AND BE WARNED, UNDERAGED SMUT SHALL BE IN HERE :D

Chapter 1: Prologue

Chapter Text

“Ooooooh Cieeeeel~!” The bubbly blonde girl bounced through the halls, paying no attention to the peers who either gave her a dirty look or a grin as she launched herself into Ciel Phantomhive's arms. The pair went down with a thud, Elizabeth giggling on top of her first loves body. The boy however didn’t find it as funny as he frowned, holding his head.

“Really Elizabeth, was that necessary? You act like you haven’t seen me over break.” He complained, giving her a dull stare. She laughed none the less, getting up with a grin then dusting off her school skirt. Ciel followed her lead, dusting off his slacks then picking up his things for school. Most of their classmates walked on by, some in glee as they greeted their friends while others rushed to class.

“So mean Ciel~! My names Lizzy! Li-zzy. L-I-Z-Z-Y.” As many times as the girl had told him to call her by her nickname, he still didn’t follow. It wasn’t to annoy her or anything, he just liked Elizabeth better. Before he could give some lame excuse, he was once again tackled by a blur of blond.

“Hello there, Ciel! Miss me? I bet you diiiid!” The owner of the voice was none other than Alois Trancy, Mr. Popular in Fifth form. Ciel groaned mentally as cerculum eyes gazed down in his own happily. The thing about this individual was that he was very.. weird. His personality could go from Lizzy to Mr. Sutcliff the Wood Chop teacher when having a bad hair day in a matter of seconds. Plus Alois had been after Ciel since the minute he saw Navy Blue/Violet eyes in second form. “C’mon Ciel, lets go get some breakfast,” Alois was already on his feet, tugging Ciel up by the hand and dragging him down the hall. Lizzy would’ve followed the two but Timber, Canterbury, and Thompson blocked her way. She was annoyed at the flunked triplets but they didn’t budge.

“I already ate my breakfast Jim.” Ciel sighed, watching as the blond continued to drag him to the line where the lunch man was serving hotcakes, eggs, and bacon. Abruptly, Alois turned around and was in Ciel’s face with a scowl.

“Don’t call me Tim.” Was all he said before the irritated expression vanished and was replaced with a smile. “And so what? I want to talk to you so just get a juice or something.” Once again he was being dragged by the older boy until they were both sat at a table. Ciel actually listened to the boy and got a juice while Alois happily ate his bacon. They were quiet for a while before Alois cleared his throat. “I found my brother over break.” Ciel nearly spat out his drink as he gazed at the sixteen year old with shock. Sure Alois may be annoying and obnoxious but Ciel still listened to his story. He had lost his brother a couple years back, unsure where to find the poor boy. Alois would’ve died if it weren’t for Miss Anna-fellows who saved him and became his legal guardian.

“Why are you here at school then?” Ciel quickly composed himself but carefully watched Alois. He didn’t want the boy to explode again because he accidentally said the wrong thing.

“Hannah.” He pouted, stabbing one of the sliced pancakes. “She made me go and even got the bloody triplets on me. But Luka will be attending this school soon.” His tone went soft at the name of his beloved brother. Ciel examined the almost blissful expression that settled on the blonds face. He had to admit, Alois was pretty for a boy.

“CIEL!” The two boys stiffened at the slightly angry bubbly voice. Lizzy stomped over and grabbed her childhoods friend by the collar. At times like this, Ciel hated his height. “We are going to be late for Mr. Michaelis class. Now come on.” And like that Ciel was being dragged off by another blonde.

The classroom was wasn’t even close to full yet. It was only them, Timber, a girl from third form and one of the best dancers in school. This class was the only dance class the school provided. Ciel also had this teacher two others times in the day because Mr. Michaelis was his homeroom and Music teacher. He was an unusual teacher. Well, compared to Mr. Sutcliff he was normal but he also wore this grin. The grin had sent shivers down Ciel’s spine when he first met the teacher. Not only was his grin weird but his hair cut was odd for a man his age. Not that he was old, he looked no older that twenty one but he was a teacher. He couldn’t be crazy young especially to get a job at an academy such as St. Harris. There was also another weird thing about this teacher. Ciel didn’t want to be rude but he felt that Mr. Michaelis wasn’t necessarily.. straight. Maybe it was because of the attention he would give to Ciel and Ciel only (Not trying to be vain but) or how he put up with Mr. Sutcliff’s flirtation. There was also no sign of the man having a lover.

“Good morning, Mr. Michaelis!” Lizzy beamed when the teacher dressed in his usual clothes walked in. He seemed to have a thing for tail coats even if he wore just a button up or a polo under it. Today his hair was pulled back neatly by some clips, his favorite baton casually placed between his ear. The teacher froze for a second, then flashed Lizzy his trademark grin, eyes closing in the process and his head tilting. Ciel rolled his eyes and looked out the window as Elizabeth chatted merrily with the teacher. It wasn’t until the bell rang that Ciel faced Mr. Michaelis again. He was standing in the middle of the almost oval classroom, that carefree grin painting his face. The class was silent as they waited for him to speak.

“Welcome back students! I hope you guys enjoyed break.” There was an out of tune chorus of ‘yeahs!’ and the classroom was alive like that. The teacher waited a bit before clapping his hands twice, a signal to get everyones attention while getting them to shut up. “Lovely. Since we just got back from such a cold break we’re not going to do much dancing. Actually today we’re going to watch,” He paused, with a smirk. Some kids started a drumroll as he gracefully moved across the room. Ciel glared when he passed him, a wink being sent to the blue raven haired boy much to his abashment. He pulled out the classic movie ‘West Side Story’ with a wide smile. The girls cheered while most of the guys groaned (except Timber who was quiet as usual). Ciel glared to the ground, annoyed at how fast his heart continued to drum on. Why does that bloody teacher give him the weirdest reactions? He's just a teacher anyways. Ciel’s aunt would kill him anyways if he didn’t stick to Elizabeth.

See, Ciel’s family had died when he was little. It was before being on your phone while driving was big and hated upon. One night while Anne was watching over Lizzy and Ciel, Mrs. and Mr. Phantomhive had left for a date in want of some peace from there hectic life. Everything thing had seemed fine, Tanaka was sorting out some files for the master, Finnian was working clumsily in the garden, MeyRin was cleaning at her best and even Baldroy was practicing on his cooking. Ciel and Lizzy were playing with his favorite toy, Noah’s ark while Anne watched them happily, chatting with Nina Hopkins, Elizabeth’s butler. Nothing seemed wrong and no one had a bad feeling. But the call still came.

“Hello?” Anne answered with a smile, watching her nephew play with his future fiancée.

“Is this the home of the Phantomhive’s?” A gruff voice asked on the other side of the line, making Anne furrow her thin red eyebrows, trying to figure out who was calling. She had just picked up the home phone without bothering to check who was calling.

“Yes, I’m the sister of Rachel Phantomhive. May I ask who this is?” There was a long silence, one that made the lady nervous.

“This is 999. I’m sorry but… there was an accident.” Her grip on the phone tightened as her heart raced. “They’re being sent to the Royal London Hospital now. I-“ She hung up and rushed for Ciel. Everyone was now on alert as she hurried to get him and herself ready, shouting out snappy orders. Tanaka was by her side as soon as he got the news, the other three seeing Elizabeth and Nina out.

“The Royal Hospital Tanaka.” Anne ordered, settling the frightened Ciel in. His eyes were wide as ever, the purple one shedding the first tear. “Shh. It’s going to be alright Ciel.” She soothed, pulling the small boy against her while running her hands through his soft hair. The drive was silent until they got there where the real chaos started.

They didn’t make it. The person driving had used such force with such a large car that the damage was horrendous. The two were both on beds, barely breathing. There was a shard of window glass stuck right between Rachel’s lungs and Vincent was suffering severe head damage from the wheel and air bag. Sure they had all the money to fix it but the two weren’t strong enough. It almost seemed planned to Anne. Even though the driver had died with a phone in hand being cased under texting and driving, she was highly suspicious.

The funeral was a week later. And in that week Ciel never smiled. Not to his aunt or the confused Lizzy. He would get lost in thought, something that scared his aunt because he was just so young. At the funeral he didn’t shed a tear. He had just stared down at his parents in there coffins, frowning down at them like he was disappointed on how weak they were. People apologized, said their wishes or hugged him but he was like a robot.

“Ciel?” The boy jumped at the whisper of his teacher. His eyes widened as he looked at the man right in his face. Instead of that usual grin he looked concerned. Looking around, he saw the classroom was empty. “The bell rang for Second period. I’ll write you a pass.” He was gone like that, already to his desk on the other side of the room. The movie was paused showing that they hadn’t finished it today. Ciel sighed, rubbing at his eyes. How did he get so caught up in the past? He hasn’t thought of that day in ages. Not even in his dreams. “Here.” The pass was in his face and all he did was stare at it. Blinking again, he took it carefully then stood up, wobbling a bit because his legs had fallen asleep. He would’ve fell over if two strong hands came to steady him. They were gripping his tiny waist, blood eyes zeroing in on Ciel to make sure he was okay. Feeling his face flame up, Ciel batted away his teachers hands and took a step to the side.

“Uhm..” He mumbled, trying not to say something absurd. Dozens of thoughts ran through his mind. Like how big his hands felt or how cold but nice they were. Or even how his body tingled at the feeling of Mr. Michaelis’s eyes taking in his form. “Thank you.” Fortunately, his voice came out normal and bored, unlike his brain. Finally the teachers smile formed but for some reason as he closed his eyes and tilted his head, Ciel's heart began to race.

“I’ll see you fifth period alright?” Ciel nodded and quickly made his way out of the spacey room. Why were they so close in such a big room? Why was his heart drumming so hard?

“Ciel!” His thoughts crashed as Alois appeared in front of him, holding the same late pass in his own hands. “Lets get to Sutcliff’s before he goes crazy.” Nodding, he followed the blond to Wood Shop, trying to get those red eyes out of his mind.

Chapter 2

Summary:

:D

Chapter Text

“Passes.” Sutcliff didn’t miss a beat as soon as the two boys -or brats as he referred to them- walked in. When they gave their slips to him, the fiery red head began to giggle loudly. “Sebby!” The whole class groaned at the horrible nickname for the dance teacher. It wasn’t uncommon for the teacher to out of no where start talking about his dearest ‘Sebby’ during class. Especially when someone came from the ravens class. Ciel and Alois quickly took their seats in the back, waiting for the next order or project from Mr. Sutcliff. “Ahem.” He finally came out of his daze and looked around the class. “I would say welcome back but you guys are all brats that I could care less about. So how about we just watch some boring documentary on wood okay? Okay.” He laughed to himself before pressing play. The class groaned again at the thought of watching something as boring as a documentary. One about wood to make it worse. So it wasn’t a shock when friends began to whisper when it started. Sutcliff was in his chair with headphones on and a wicked grin so Alois leaned against Ciel.

“You came from Michaelis?” Alois whispered, messing around with the ring on his finger. Ciel blushed, the thought of the teachers smile getting the same reaction as before. In fear that the blond would hear it, he pushed him off his shoulder and buried his face in his arms.

“Yeah. I zoned out. You?” Ciel snuck a peek at Alois to see his expression. He was surprised when his porcelain tinted pink. Was Alois.. blushing?

` “S-Stupid Mr. Faustus. He gave me a bloody detention because I threw a button at Lizzy. Its not my fault though. She kept yapping on about cute things and how cute you and her were together. Which is dumb because everyone knows I look way better by your side.” He had stammered at the beginning but ended with wiggling eyebrows which made Ciel warningly tilt his chair back.

“I don’t get why you and Elizabeth have that need to bicker all the time. Its foolish.” Alois sighed, shaking his head.

“Its not foolish. You’re just dense.” And that was the start of the petty name calling. The two went on until the bell rang, “What lunch do you have?” Alois had grabbed Ciel by the blazer to stop him, narrowing his eyes.

“First. You?” Ciel knew the answer as soon as Alois squealed like a girl, hugged the shocked year 10 boy and skipped off. “So weird.”

The next two classes passed by normally. Unlike Ciels first two they handed out a syllabus and played dumb games to let the class get to know each other. There was one girl that stood out to Ciel in his fourth period. She must’ve been new because instead of the girls uniform she wore skinny jeans and a baggy hoodie, pure white headphones resting around her neck. She was quiet and seemed to have only one friend which was an older boy with white hair. He also didn’t have the school uniform and instead wore dark jeans and a dirty long sleeved. They also had weird names. Doll and Snake the teacher had called them.

Other from that nothing unusual happened in those two classes so he was off to lunch.

“Ciel!”

“Cieeel~!”

Flinching at the two voices calling his name, he took off knowing the blondes would follow him anyway.

“CIEL?!” They both gasped loudly before they followed him. He ran to his locker, grabbed his lunch then ran outside. He was out of breath as soon as he got out the door so Elizabeth being on the track team caught up with him in ease. She stopped him with a pout..

“Why’d you run away?”

“I-“

“He realized that your face isn’t as cute as mine and freaked out because he doesn’t know how to tell you.” Alois butted in with a smirk, panting lowly. Lizzy gasped, hitting the blond.

“He was running from you too, meanie!”

“Thats because our love must stay hidden so he has to play it cool.”

“Thats so not true! Right Ciel? Tell him its not true!”

“Oh believe it blondie locks. You should see how Ciel acts at my house. He even wore my sh-“

“Enough!” Ciel finally cut in with a red face. Sure he knew everything Alois was spewing out were lies but sometimes the older boy could get way into detail that it worried him. “I’m hungry so I ran. Now go get your lunches already before the bell rings again.” The two were wide eyed but nodded anyways, the triplets already waiting for Alois while some girls from Elizabeth’s homeroom were giggling as she hugged Ciel then ran off to them. Ciel sighed, finally having peace as he settled against his favorite tree and began to eat the sandwich Baldroy prepared. He was getting better at least.

“I’m shocked you’re all by yourself.” Ciel jumped as he came face to face with Mr. Michaelis. The teacher laughed, taking a step back while the teen tried to regather oxygen. He willed his heart to slow down at the feeling of the teachers eyes on him but it wouldn’t do. So he went with the best next thing and gave the raven a blank look.

“How so?”

“Well.. you’re usually surrounded by those blondes.” Mr. Michaelis hummed, taking out an apple from seemingly nowhere and taking a happy bite. Ciel watched like a weirdo then cleared his throat.

“I could say the same thing. Usually Mr. Faustus is on your case or Mr. Sutcliff’s trying to get into your pants.” His gaze was now on the teachers black nails. Does he paint them? How did he not notice them before? He was pulled out from his mini questionnaire by the teachers joyous laughter. Surprised, he watched pure amusement and a genuine smile show on his teachers happy face. Now Ciel was curious. He didn’t seem to mind the fact that he talked about a man wanting to get into his pants. Does that confirm his suspicion? “Are you gay?” He blurted, making Mr. Michaelis’s laughter pause. His eyes opened and his grin fell. Blinking a couple times, he stared down at Ciel cautiously. “I apologize. You don’t have to answ-“

“Yes.” Ciel nearly choked on his own words as his head snapped up at the taller man. “Don’t worry though. I’m not targeting any of the boys here. I don’t date kids.” For some reason, Ciel felt a horrible pang in his heart at those words. But he didn’t let anything show and took another bite with a nod.

“Its against the law anyways.” He finally mumbled, his heart still racing even after hearing that horrible fact. It was quiet for a while, the only sound being the noise from the other kids and some animals but it was interrupted by Ciel’s two favorite blondes. Cough Cough, sarcasm cough cough.

“CIEEEEE- Mr. Michaelis?” Lizzy stopped herself as the teacher turned around at the noise. He flashed the two blondes a smile, adding a small wave.

“Hello Miss Midford. Don’t worry, I was just leaving.” And without a goodbye to Ciel, the teacher was strolling back to the school. He didn’t say anything as his friends sat on opposite sides of him, Elizabeth on the left and Alois on the right.

“Hmm.. I don’t know if I like that guy.” Alois’s comment brought Ciel out of his blur of thoughts. He faced him now, tilting his head curiously. “If he likes you he can easily get you. Me and blondie locks have to actually try.” He ended it with a pout, crossing his arms and glaring at the sky. “Thats no fun nor fair.”

“Heyyy~! Ciel’s mine, Trancy. I don’t have to try at all!” Elizabeth huffed, linking her arm with Ciel.

“I already told you. Ciel likes me honey. We both may be flat as a board but-“ Lizzy had tackled the blue eyed blond by now, screeching from embarrassment as her face flamed red. Alois laughed loudly the whole time as she hit him randomly. It didn’t hurt and seeing her frustrated amused him.

“You guys…” Ciel tried awkwardly. He couldn’t really comfort Elizabeth because when she hits that point, theres no going back. Cute things, hugs, or compliments are practically nothing.

“You’re so stupid! I don’t like you! Meanie, Meanie, Meanieeee!” As Lizzy was going to hit Alois once more, she was lifted off before her tiny hands could touch the blond again. Timber and Canterbury were holding her gently while Thompson was calmly fixing Alois up.

“The bell rang.”

“We should go.”

“What he said.” As usual the three talked orderly before walking off. The two blondes and raven jumped up and ran to the large school building.

“You guys be good.” Ciel warned at the hall way that would separate him from them. The two had the next class together and he didn’t need them getting into more trouble on the first day. Lizzy stuck her tongue out before running off while Alois sighed, shaking his head.

“I’m serious though. Be careful around that teacher.” He said before walking off calmly, hands buried in his short pockets. Puzzled, Ciel began to walk to his class, gliding past his peers smoothly then taking his seat by the window. One of the rules was not to get your instrument until class started so he began to think of what Alois said. What was with the warning? Its illegal in the first place and Mr. Michaelis is a guy. There are just too many bad things that would come from that. Not only would his aunt have his head but so would Elizabeth and the media.

Two claps pulled him out of his thoughts. The teacher stood in the center like usual, standing at perfect posture as he gazed around the classroom. As if on cue, the bell rang.

“Please get your instruments.” At once, the class got up and either went to the shelfs to the right of the room or to the door where they left their instrument after coming in the class. Ciel groaned, realizing he forgot his at home. So he walked up to the teacher sheepishly, although he didn’t show it.

“I left mine at home. Can I cal-“

“Nope. You can flip the pages for me today. No, even better. Can you play piano?” I was confused but nodded anyways. “We’re going to need that for the song we’re practicing so go on.” With a sigh, he shuffled over the the huge instrument and sat down. Some of the kids gave him a weird look but he glared at them, making their rude eyes look away hurriedly. “Okay! As you can see we have Mr. Phantomhive playing the piano today! Wonderful, right?” Some noises of agreements filled the pause. “Please go to page 138. This is one of the songs we’re learning for the upcoming pep rally.” Once everyone was ready, the classroom was filled with the noise of stringed instruments and the every now and then comment from Mr. Michaelis.

“Good work everyone. Please pack up now, the bells about to ring.” Ciel stayed at the piano, running a finger over the keys. He liked the piano much more than the violin but he had got his violin from his mother before.. the accident so he learned it for her. It was one of the ways he made himself happy if he were sad from thinking of his parents. Not that he would admit it to anyone though. “You did marvelous at the piano Ciel.” He flinched at the mans voice, hating how once again his heart sped up. Facing the teacher, he shrugged without showing any sign of joy from the compliment.

“I’ll bring my violin tomorrow.” and with that the bell rang so Ciel got up. He was ready to go to his next class with Mr. Spears but the hand on his arm stopped him. Freezing, he turned his head to see Mr. Michaelis holding his arm with a small smile.

“I need to have a word with you, Ciel. How about you stay after today?” For some reason, Ciel could feel his face heat up as if there was some stupid message behind his teachers words. Nodding quickly, he took his arm back with a small glare before hurrying off to his next class.

Chapter 3

Summary:

So this took an unexpected turn in my brain but I like it :D ENJOYYYY~

PS

just in case you guys dont know who anne is (i doubt it tho) its Madame Red xD and SHANKS FOR LE LOVELY KUDOS AND COMMENTS AND BOOKMARKS I'M SOOOO PROUUUUD

Chapter Text

“Can I come over today Ciel?” Elizabeth asked Ciel as they walked to their lockers. The final bell of the day rang so everyone was getting ready to leave. Ciel was going to shrug, not really having an opinion about the blonde coming over but then he remembered. He had to stay after school with Mr. Michaelis.

“Uh, no. I have to stay after with Michaelis.” Lizzy pouted, making a small noise of complaint.

“Thats no fun. That means you might go home with Trancy..” Ciel arched a brow, watching the slight pink color the girls face at this action.

“Is that.. jealousy I hear?” If he were like any normal high school boy, he probably would’ve smiled or smirked but those were actions unknown to him. The closest he’s got to a smile was his first year at this school. It was also when he first met Alois who immediately started something with Elizabeth. Somehow they’re bickering was amusing and he had let a small corner tick up. A set of green and blue eyes had stared at him at awe which made him regret it instantly. Since then he’s been more aware about his reactions to the blonde duo.

“Che! Me, jealous of Alois?! Ha! Funny. I-I’m going to go now… Bye Ciel!!!” She pecked his cheek quickly with a red face then ran off like usual, her friends going after her. Shaking his head, he shut his locker and almost yelped when he saw Alois leaning against the one next to his.

“So you’re staying after too eh? Remember my warning about that guy.” And then he spun around happily and began to walk down the hallway whistling an unfamiliar tune. Confused, Ciel walked on to the music/dance room. He was about to pull open the door but someone beat him to the punch. He was shocked when he saw Mr. Faustus at the door, hair a mess and eyes darker than usual. The man simply smirked, fixing his small tie then walked past Ciel. A bit suspicious, Ciel’s eyes looked for Mr. Michaelis and almost died at the sight.

His teachers first couple buttons were undone and his coat for the first time was discarded on the floor. His usually naturally weird hair was a horrid mess and– was that a love bite?!

He wanted to leave at the sight. His heart was pumping loudly in his ears and he knew his eyes were as wide as saucers. He kept looked at the hair, his neck, the delicate coat on the floor, then to his crimson eyes. The teacher looked almost as surprised as him, as if he wasn’t expecting Ciel to actually come or something. But what really hurt Ciel about the situation was when his teacher said this,

“Afternoon Ciel.” With a delighted smile. Something crazy must’ve come over Ciel because his legs were making him walk to the teacher. He didn’t say anything as his hand swiftly moved in the air and connect with Mr. Michaelis’s cheek. The man was now facing the left side with widened eyes, a slight stinging on his right cheek. He couldn’t utter a sound and Ciel knew this. He should’ve apologized right away but he continued to glare at the raven.

“What were you and Mr. Faustus doing?” Slowly, Mr. Michaelis faced the younger boy. His eyes were still widened but instead of a small ‘o’ on his lips, there was a smirk.

“Are you… jealous Mr. Phantomhive?” He said instead, grinning now. Ciel glared more, not allowing the blush that wanted to creep on his face show. Instead he walked over to the teachers desk and picked up his baton. In a way of declaration, he pointed it at the older man.

“Jealous or not, you are not allowed to see him. Or I’ll use this.” Ciel had no idea what the hell was spewing out of his mouth. But it wouldn’t stop. His teacher didn’t seemed annoyed or relatively mad at what he was saying. More than anything, Mr. Michaelis looked interested.

“And what gives you the right to order me around?” Ciel gulped. Now, the raven was mere inches away from him with that stupid smirk gracing his face. His bangs were swaying lightly from the open window and the tickle of it against Ciel’s head made his heart flutter.

“B-Because..” He paused, random words and thoughts jumbling in his mind. “Starting today, I am your Master.”

The room was dead silent. Navy blue gazing up at crimson red. Ciel could feel the warmth of the blush across his face. What if the man took it the wrong way? Like… that weird kinky shit in Fifty Shades of Grey. At the thought of that porn book Ciel frantically waved his hands with eyes as wide as saucers.

“NOT IN THAT WEIRD WAY!!!” He crossed his arms when Mr. Michaelis began to chuckle. “I meant.. starting today you’re my butler.” He quickly shut up and arched a brow at the student. Now it was his turn to cross his arms.

“Will I be getting paid?” Ciel nodded. “I don’t need money though.” The man said boredly, looking the other way much to Ciel’s annoyance.

“How else would I pay you?!” Ciel almost screamed (sadly) when he was bent down awkwardly against a random desk, the teacher hovering above him with a smirk. A cool finger caressed the blue/purple eyed boys cheek.

“What an unique eye..” Mr. Michaelis murmured, making Ciel stiffened. He hated when people pointed out that eye. He despised it with a passion. Why did one of his eyes have to be purple? Why couldn’t they both be blue like his mums? “You can repay me with,” Ciel was holding his breath at the pause. Why did the teacher have to be so melodramatic? This wasn’t some movie, this was Ciel’s life and shit. “You’ll see.. I have to wait a few weeks to see.” What a waste. But what shocked Ciel the most was when he leaned in slowly and pressed his soft lips against the boys forehead. It was such a gentle gesture that he hasn’t felt in so long that tears began to form in his eyes. Without a sound, the man pulled away and flashed the second genuine smile Ciel’s seen on him.

“F-Fool.” Was all the student could utter with the flaming blush igniting on his cheeks. In return he got another carefree grin before seeing the beautiful back of Mr. Michaelis.

“I’m home.” Was all Ciel said as he walked through the doors of his manor. Tanaka was first to greet him with a small bow before walking off to whatever direction he was probably headed early. Mey-Rin greeted him with a loud : “G’day Young Master!” then scurried off with a load of plates. He didn’t see the other two so he headed to his aunts study. Delivering the oak door two knocks, he walked through to see his Aunt on the phone, typing on the computer, and signing some paper. Tanaka was standing against the wall with a tray of food in hand.

“Au-“

“Shh wait one minute Ciel.” He was cut off before he could finish and all he could do was sigh. She continued to talk a bit longer then finally hung up with a victorious grin. Obviously she got some deal for the company. “Yes, Ciel?”

“I got my own butler. You’ll meet him tomorrow so please don’t be obnoxious.” And with that he left without another word to his aunt. He had homework anyway.

Chapter 4

Notes:

So uh, I'm not sure if I'm really good at one of the 'dramatic' scenes in here but i hope you like :DDDDDD

I DID THIS DURING SCHOOOOOL ;DDDD rebelism

Chapter Text

“Now repeat it all one more.” Ciel was staring down at his butler, Mr. Michaelis all ready. He had a suit on, his favorite tail coat hugging his upper body and nice shoes. Ciel was standing across from him in a deserted park, dressed in his own favorite jacket and some skinny jeans. It was after school so he had changed into his normal wear.

“Hello Madame Red. Its nice to meet you. What tea would you prefer? Ceylon or Assam? And then I’ll wait for her reply then introduce myself as Sebastian Michaelis, your new personal butler. You will then pull out the contract that I signed and I will stay by your side quietly as she examines it. The rest is unpredictable.”

“And what will you address me as?”

“Young Master.” The boy would’ve been smiling if he were like others. Something about hearing his new butler say those words made him feel all fluffy and shit. The way Elizabeth felt about cute things really.

“Now lets go.” Sebastian bowed before trailing behind the boy to the already waiting limo. The pair got in, Sebastian across from Ciel who couldn’t help but stare at the man. What was it about him anyways. Its not like the butler was any different from a guy. They all had disgusting penis’s that in no way shape or form would Ciel take in interest in and they didn’t have boobs. Even with those thoughts in mind, blue eyes traveled down to the mans crotch area, a flaming blush coloring his cheeks at the thought of what his looked like.

“Are you hot, Young Master?” The voice instantly (and quite embarrassedly) pulled Ciel from his thoughts. Sebastian sat there with a smirk and a cocked eyebrow, as if he knew already what the fifteen year old was thinking. At the horrid thought, he practically choked on air all bug eyed and red faced. All the butler did was grin because the bastard knew exactly what he was doing. So when he settled the younger boy on his lap, the fuss that came after was expected.

“What’re you doing?!” Ciel shrieked, holding in the inner shiver because he could feel so clearly through Sebastian's pants. And he found out then that the man definitely wasn’t small. In any way, shape or form was he small. He was so startled when gloved hands began to run through his hair.

“Comforting you. You’re too young to be so stressed Young Master.” He whispered in Ciel’s ear, knowing that the boy was probably erupting with different reactions everywhere. The man had been curious about the prideful boy for a while. Sure he and Claude could satisfy each others devilish hunger for a bit but honestly it was like feeding a starving bear a grape. He also knew that Claude liked that blond who was always around Ciel. So it was weird doing that to each other and having Ciel walk in on that was horrible. But the reaction was unexpected for Sebastian. A prideful but easily jealous young master huh? Oh how his appetite was growing for the marvelous Ciel Phantomhive.

“I don’t need comfort.” Ciel grumbled, glaring out the window without bothering to move. With a hum of delight, the butler got comfy himself as they slowly neared to the large Phantomhive manor in which Madame Red would be impatiently waiting for her nephew.

The pair strolled in the manor without any worries. Tanaka bowed but still had that confused gleam even as he kept a pleased face on. Mey-Rin blushed harder than Ciel has in the couple days at the sight of a new butler in all black. Finnian gave a joyous hello but had stopped mid way with shock in his eyes. It was as if he recognized Sebastian which put Ciel off but he continued up the stairs to his Aunts Study.

“I’m serious Sebastian. You cannot mess this up.” The butler didn’t say a word but nodded, watching curiously as his master took a deep breath then opened the door. Was this Madame Red really that scary that she shook the pride from his next interest? “Au-“

“CIEL!!! DO YOU KNOW HOW WORRIED I WAS WHEN LIZZY CALLED ME, FREAKING OUT ABOUT WHERE YOU WERE?!?!” Ciel was pounced by a flurry of red, vibrant eyes filling with tears. Ciel sighed, wincing a bit but never the less stole a tear that went rogue.

“I apologize Aunt. But I told you that you were going to meet my butler today.” At the word butler, the women sprung up and straightened up, eyes landing immediately on the man dressed in black. She was taken back at his appearance mostly. His bangs were longer then her hair and for some odd reason, his eyes seemed to be more red if possible than hers.

Sebastian was just as shocked as she was. He didn’t expect a direct look a like of Ciel being that she was his aunt but they had zero similarities. The boy gave off more of a blue color with his hair and eyes, a trademark glare always set on his face even if he wasn’t mad. His aunt was just a glob of red. Red hair, eyes, clothing, and even her presence gave off something.. red. It was all so weird but Sebastian didn’t miss a beat as he bowed once then made excellent eye contact.

“Good afternoon Madame Red. I am Sebastian Michaelis, Ciel’s new butler. Which would you prefer, Ceylon or Assam?” The introduction came easy. Ciel just waited by the sides for his aunts answer. Her gaze seemed highly suspicious but in a way, relieved. But that small silence was indeed small.

SMACK!

Ciel had only blinked. One little blink and then heard a loud smack of skin on skin. One that sounded too harsh to begin with. He was in pure shock and terror when he saw a faint red print on Sebastian's pale cheek, his aunts hand still in the air. She was glaring at the butler now, as if he had done something relatively offensive. Did Ciel miss something?

“Get out. I don’t want to see you ever again near my Nephew.” Suddenly Ciel was pressed up against his aunt, almost in some protective way the was so foreign to him, he didn’t know how to react. Sebastian only narrowed his eyes, a totally different smile forming. It wasn’t that charming one or the devious smirk. It was more of a small opened mouth one that made his eyes go darker. “Ciel, don’t associate yourself with that, trash.” What the hell was going on?!

“Wait whats go-“

“BALDROY!!” His aunt yelled over him for the cook, only seconds later the goggles wearing blond bursting though on guard. His eyes widened when he saw Sebastian standing across from the Mistress.

“Seb-“

“Get him out of here!” Ciel was so confused by now. Why was there recognition in Baldroys eyes at the sight of the man? How did they know each other? And why the hell was his aunt making such a fuss!?

“Don’t!” Finally Ciel spoke up as he thrusted his arm out of his aunts grip and stood in front of the butler who honestly was shocked. The boy didn’t even know why his aunt was acting like she was and still sided with him? In some weird way, he was touched.

“Ciel!” Madame Red exclaimed red faced. Right now she reminded Ciel of the Red Queen. He was honestly expecting her to scream : “OFF WITH THEIR HEADS!”.

“Why are you trying to send my butler away?! He is not yours is he? And the contract has already been done.” And like that Madame Red was on her knees searching for some sign of a permanent contract that she knew her little nephew will never be able to erase. She searched hurriedly, pushing up sleeves or lifting up his shirt much to his shock and embarrassment. “A-Aunt Anne!!” He pushed her away wide-eyed, even more confused about what she was doing. Sure he just lied about the contract -Sebastian hasn’t actually signed it yet- but she didn’t have to go all crazy and shit. “What on earth do you think you’re doing?!” He hissed, blue/violet eyes glaring furiously.

“Th-The contract.. where is it?” She whispered, tears building in her eyes. Ciel was astonished. In just a matter of seconds his usual sassy and straight forward Aunt had lost her cool. Now she was on her knees with tears gently streaming down her face as her bright red lips trembled.

“Auntie…” He mumbled, taking two steps towards her. She now had her head buried in her hands as sobs loudly wracked through her. Cautiously, Ciel began to rub her shoulder to calm her down but she continued on.

“Ple-please don’t do it Ciel. Not you..”

He couldn’t say anything. No words of comfort or something to stop whatever she was thinking. He didn’t know what to say. Sending a sideways glance at where he once was, Ciel was relieved to see Sebastian still there. He wasn’t smiling or frowning though. His face was impassive. Those crimson eyes seemed to glow now, as if it was reflecting some emotion he was secretly feeling.

“Please calm down.. I have to go-“

“CIEL!” He softly pushed away her hand and took a step back. He could feel Sebastian hovering behind him, his intense gaze burning into his back.

“Baldroy, please have Mey-Rin help her. I will be back in a bit.” He snatched his soon-to-be butlers gloved hand and lead him outside until they reached Ciel's future car. He was going to start driving soon so it was a birthday present last month. “You drive. We’re going to your place.”

“Of course, Young Master.” With a pleased grin, he bowed then opened the door for his little master to go through. Without any facial changes, he boarded on silently and waited to reach the butlers house.

Chapter 5

Summary:

Sorry for taking a while enjoyyyy c;

Chapter Text

“Is this it?” Ciel questioned when the car came to a stop. They were outside a familiar manor but he couldn’t figure out why it looked familiar.

“Yes, this is where I’m currently staying.” Sebastian answered with a small grin. Ciel didn’t look to much in to it and walked out as soon as his door was opened by the butler. They reached the front entrance, Ciel standing by quietly as Sebastian pulled out his key. It didn’t take long for him to unlock the many locks on the dark violet then to open the creaking door right after. Ciel eyes when he looked at the interior of the manor. How could a teacher who makes so little have so much?!

“This is your place?!” Ciel exclaimed, not caring how rude he sounded. Everything looks so nice. The stair case railing was gold, a purple carpet going up the steps themselves. Most of it reminded him of Alois. The plum colors and the bright cerulean furniture made him curious.

“Not all mine. I live here with.. Mr. Faustus.” Sebastian answered honestly. Why lie when theres a chance of the two running into each other later on. Ciel on the other hand felt a huge pang of jealousy strike through his heart, the organ beginning to beat a bit faster. He didn’t say anything as he hung his cane on the coat rack, also disposing of his coat with it. Just as he was about to take a step forward,

“Ciel?!!” And like that he was tackled again, meeting bright blue eyes. Grunting from the impact, he winced so he didn’t get to see the confused expression on the blonds face. “Why are you here? You could’ve texted me ya know.” He stated, crossing his arms as he leant back on the younger boy.

“Get off of me!” Ciel whined, trying to shove the older boy off who just giggled loudly, shaking his head.

“My house, my ru- Wait. You came here with him?” Alois cut his self off as he glared at the man dressed in butler attire. He began to piece the parts together and looked down at Ciel in horror. “No way! You’re not going to make a contract are you?!” Ciel didn’t get why his older friend seemed so worried by this. Almost everyone in school had a butler who drove them to school, brought their lunch, picked them up from school, etc. It was about time Ciel got his own. Even Elizabeth had hers.

“Wait so you knew Sebastian outside of school?” Ciel asked instead, realizing how odd it seemed. He was surprised when Alois turned a bright shade of red, making him feel a bit uneasy.

“Mr. Faustus… is kind of my butler so he brought him with him..” This shocked Ciel even more then necessary. When did Alois get a butler?! You’d figure he didn’t need one with those triplets watching his back like hounds. Plus Miss Anna-Fellows was pretty protective.

“And Hannah knows?” Alois nodded, finally getting off the smaller boy then offering a hand. Just when Ciel was going to take it, however, Sebastian’s gloved one swiftly grabbed his instead and pulled him up, the action causing Ciel to ram right into his chest. He stiffened when the soon to be butler leaned down just to whisper in his ear.

“I think thats enough contact between you two..” And then situated him casually to Sebastian's side. Alois was scowling at the whole exchange. He knew exactly what Sebastian wanted from Ciel. Being with Claude had made him realize why the teacher was always so nice and joyful around the boy. Call him a hypocrite for thinking so bad about what Ciel was wanting from Sebastian but he cared for the year 10 boy more than himself. Hell, he knew that compared to Ciel he was just trash with all he’s been through.

“Sebastian.” Ciel tensed at the FACS teachers voice. He appeared also all in black at the staircase, Hannah behind him holding… Luka’s hand. Ciel would’ve greeted Luka happily but the butler in front of the little boy stopped him from doing so. He was glued to his spot, only able to glare at older man.

“Hello Claude.” Sebastian nodded, knowing that there was a limit of how much he should say to the other butler. He could feel the jealousy rolling of of Ciel like waves. It amused him to know how much talking to the other man affected Ciel. Something so little can get under his skin that easy. Oh how Ciel Phantomhive intrigued him. “Hannah.” He bowed subtly at the women before taking a step back to be behind Ciel.

“Ciel!!!” The little boy squealed, leaving the woman whom he thought of as a mother’s side and raced down the stairs to lunge for Ciel. Ciel caught him happily, listening to his delightful giggles as he spun him around. “I’m back Ciel! I’m really back!” Nodding, he put the boy down as Alois stepped up. “Brotha!!” And like that he was attached to the blond, clinging onto him as if his life depended on it.

“Its great to see you again Ciel.” Hannah gave a small smile, pulling the Phantomhive heir into a hug that he returned while keeping a sharp eye on Sebastian.

“Hey Miss A.” He replied, finally making eye contact. Thats when he noticed something. “What happened to your eye?” He frowned, examining the carefully bandaged part. The right part of her face, mostly her eye was covered by wraps. Hannah just waved her hands as if it were no big deal.

“Nothing too bad, just an accident from the other day.” her gaze unconsiously looked at Alois who was now staring down at the floor. Ciel didn’t catch it as he just nodded with the frown still in place.

“How about we get to that contract now, Young Master.” Sebastian’s hand met Ciel’s shoulder making him tilt his head back a bit to see the butler. With a sigh and a nod, he took a step back.

“Sorry that I’m not here to see you guys. I just have some business right now but I will drop by again soon.” And with that, Sebastian was leading the younger boy to his room. All Alois could do was watch pitifully. He knew he couldn’t interfere on a deal with them. Plus Claude would probably stop him.

Sebastian’s door shut loudly, making Ciel jump at the noise. He apologized while locking it for privacy, moving towards Ciel with a small smirk. He had been waiting for this for a long time. He was just shocked he was able to play his cards like this and get so much.

“So you know what we’re doing, right?” Sebastian asked, trying to make sure everything was clear. Ciel scoffed, rolling his eyes.

“Do I look stupid?”

“Well your last test wasn’t-“ He was cut off by a pillow hitting his face and then seeing a scowling Ciel, pulling a chuckle from the butler in black.

“Just find a pen you imbecile.” Ciel muttered, pulling out the contract. This excited Sebastian even more. Oh how was he eager to get this contract started. Plus Ciel didn’t seem scared or hesitant, making the whole thing even better. Once he got a pen, he sat down across from the fifteen year old. The boy simply passed the paper to him and pointed to the bottom where he would sign. “You could re-read it if you’re unsure. Even if you’re not my butler, I will talk to you as if you were in school,” He said, leaning forward to watch the teacher. Sure his voice leaked with confidence but on the inside he was freaking out. Would he actually sign it or back out and embarrass him? What if he comes off too bratty?

“Done.” Sebastian’s voice pulled him out of his thoughts, the paper now in front of his face. At the very bottom was the mans signature, ensuring the relationship which brought a surprising smirk to Ciel’s lips. Sebastian was shocked when he saw the facial expression. Sure it wasn’t a smile but its as pretty close to it and he was sure no ones ever seen him smile in years. He wanted to just stare at the slightly blissful face but he had to start his part of the deal. So carefully he took off his right glove with a smirk of his own. He could feel his eyes glow as his appetite for the boy grew even more now that he knew that Ciel would be his.

The movement of Sebastian caught Ciel’s eye so he watched as the butler discarded his glove. He was a tad confused as to why his eyes seemed to be a darker, more vibrant shade of red and- What was that?!?

Taking up most of the mans pale hand was some type of star. It glowed a purple that reminded him of his right eye, making him feel uneasy. The room seemed to grow darker, shadows creeping up the walls and all signs of light disappearing as if it were scared away. Sebastian just smiled through it all, too happy with what was going on to notice Ciel’s confused expression.

“Sebastian?!” Ciel called, standing up to back away. He had that face, the one where his eyebrows were a bit furrowed, his eyes enlarged in shock or confusion, and his mouth in an almost growling gesture. Sebastian finally understood Ciel’s expression, realizing that he must’ve gotten to eager to actually notice the confusion. But it was too late now. He couldn’t just slip on his glove and pretend this never happened because the boy had seen to much. It had to be done.

And done it shall be.

Chapter 6

Notes:

WARNING

CONTAINS A BIT OF SMUT

or a lot

idk im kinda bad at writing it but i tried.

ENJOYYYYY

Chapter Text

“Ciel-“

Smack!

Ciel glared at the man, all the confusion building up his anger. What the hell was that?! Why was Sebastian looking him at him like that?! He didn’t say a word as he passed by the still shocked and processing butler and made his way out of the dark room.

“Are you leaving?” Claude was waiting by the door, falling in step with the boy with a sadistic smirk. Ciel rolled his eyes but nodded, picking up pace to get away from the disgrace. He knew he didn’t like that one since the moment he walked in on him and Sebastian. But that didn’t matter anymore. Claude could have Sebastian if he wanted but like hell was Ciel going to let him corrupt Alois. With that in mind, he grabbed the blond who was talking to Hannah and dragged him outside, ignoring the boys protests.

“Ciel!? Whoa whats happening? Are you okay?! Ciel!!” With a small groan, he pinned the older boy against the limo he and that thing came arrived in. “Ciel…?” Alois whispered, staring down at the glaring boy despite the position he was in. Ciel’s breath’s came out in small pants of anger, making Alois worry a bit. “Did Seb-“

“Sh!” Ciel hissed, his blue dark eyes meeting Alois’. The older boy watched, puzzled as Ciel searched his face, as if looking for something. “Does Claude’s eyes turn red?” He sighed, relaxing a bit. The other boy was now the exact opposite. He tensed up in Ciel’s grip, a bit frightened that he would assume that so fast. Sebastian wasn’t with him which meant the deal hadn’t been done so he doesn’t fully know, right? Or maybe he does and rejected Sebastian? Alois’ mind swirling with various scenarios.

Ciel on the other hand only had one thought in mind. Claude was like Sebastian somehow. Alois’ silence already proved that. With a whispered curse, He let go of the sixteen year old and rubbed a hand on his face.

“I’m about to go. I left my coat and cane inside so stay here, we have a lot to speak about Alois.” Ciel said, leaving no room to argue as he left the blond still against the vehicle.

Like he said, Ciel hurried inside the Trancy manor. He thanked who ever was giving him luck that Luka nor Hannah was around so he wouldn’t be questioned about his sudden departure. Just as he was ready to leave, strong arms trapped him, a familiar head leaning on his left shoulder. He was about to elbow who he was pretty sure was Sebastian but soft lips met his neck, making him stiffen. They trailed slowly up to his ear, tugging a bit on the navy blue earring before nuzzling against his cheek. Ciel was too embarrassed to move, his face bright red as his feet dangled in whomever’s grasp.

“I wouldn’t think someone as prideful as you would ever run away from a mere butler… But you did make me all the more interested, Ciel.” Sebastian purred, one hand still keeping a secure grip around the boys little waist while the other made shapeless figures on his sides, making the student tremble a bit. He could feel himself get overheated, his face already red but now his body was reacting weirdly. He wasn’t sure what was happening but that didn’t stop the smirking butler. “I’m shocked you didn’t kiss the blondie out there. I assumed you were with how close you were to him..” Ciel scoffed at this, trying to ignore the gloved fingers and the addicting lips. Sebastian was changing what he was doing so fast, he was getting light-headed. One minute he was nibbling or kissing his neck and the next he was whispering ridiculous words as his hands practically turned Ciel’s mind to mush. The butler knew exactly what he was doing so it was easy for him to swiftly take them to his room without Ciel noticing from everything he was feeling. Ciel only noticed when his back hit a soft surface.

Startled, he looked around and recognized the room from before. He was hoping the shadows or whatever they were would’ve been gone but they worsened. Instead of being 2D figures on the wall, they were slithered towards the boy like Sebastian did.

“I swear, touch me an-“ He was interrupted by a pair of lips. He froze, gawking at the man pretty much on him who stared right back at him as his mouth worked against his own. Crimson eyes seemed to sparkle when some shadow touched Ciel, making him squeak which gave Sebastian the entrance. Before Ciel could push the man off, the shadows pinned him down for Sebastian, making it easier for the butler to continue ravishing the boys mouth.

Fuck. Ciel thought. Why does it have to feel so good?! I haven’t even properly kissed Elizabeth and now a MAN is kissing the hell out of me!

His thoughts were cut short when cold fingers gently pinched his nipple, making his hips unfamiliarly buck against the teacher, a high-pitched moan leaving him. Wide-eyed and embarrassed, he squirmed to get away from Sebastian but he couldn’t move away. Sadly, it wasn’t just because of the shadows holding him down, it was the fact that his body ached for more.

“So you like it when I pinch here, Young Master?” He murmured, rolling the bud again just to hear that delightful noise from Ciel again. Ciel on the other hand gritted his teeth to hold back a horrid moan. It was a weak try though because it still slipped out since Sebastian had gotten creative and decided to grind against the boy. “You can be as loud as you want, Ciel. The shadows block out everything from the others.” That didn’t help Ciel at all. He shut his eyes tightly so he wouldn’t look at Sebastian. As pissed as he was with the butler, he couldn’t help but peek at the expression he held.

Sebastian was so concentrated as he shifted easily between what he was doing. Now, Ciel’s shirt was to his chin, one shadow gently rubbing against one nipple while Sebastian’s mouth enclosed around the other. His hands were making their way down south to where Ciel couldn’t help but buck and rotate at. His thoughts were blurred as Crimson met blue, a smirk forming even while assaulting the now sensitive bud.

“Se-ebastian… sssstop!” He whimpered, feeling something build in his stomach. “Ahhh! Wh-What is that!?” He hissed, staring down at his stomach. Also confused, Sebastian stopped to stare down at Ciel’s stomach.

“What is what?”

“I-I feel weird… theres a pressure down.. there..” He mumbled, his face flushing red. Sebastian cocked a brow, delicately placing a finger on the boys small tummy. He poked it but the boy didn’t seem to be in pain. Even more curious, he thought about the second option of it being if not a stomach ache. Without warning, he flicked the nipple, eliciting a moan then Ciel holding his stomach with wide eyes. “Wh-what’re you doing!!” Sebastian began to laugh loudly, shaking his head.

“Have you ever climaxed young master?” Ciel felt his heart skip a beat at the word, his face heating up quickly.

“O-Of course not! What do you take me for, a bloody pe-pervert?!” He hissed, trying to cool down. Then he realized how perverted the position they were in. “An-And what’re you doing here?! Stop calling me master, You’re not my butler!” He tried to get up, forgetting about the shadows but they kept him in place much to his annoyance. “Get these off of me. They’re fucking weird.”

“Nope.” Sebastian beamed, leaning down to peck the boys lips. His face brightened up again, not at all helping his goal on keeping a blank face. “I want you to remember this day Ciel. Because with just this,” He paused to lick a thick stripe across Ciel’s pouting lips, the boy gasping at the action. “I’m going to make you cum.” Before Ciel could move or stop him somehow, Sebastian had Ciel’s shorts down to his ankles. All that separated him from Ciel’s ultimate pleasure was a thin fabric. Instead of going in for it, he opened his mouth wide and put his soft lips against the small tent. His tongue made circles against it, Ciel’s body taking full control as he subconsciously thrusted into Sebastian’s mouth. Small whimpers and breathless moans escaped the small boy, an unknown urge filled his mind as he freed his hand and yanked Sebastian’s head up. Surprised crimson eyes gazed into lust filled ones, a smirk forming at the sight. Oh how delicious the young master looked right now.

His pale fragile body was arched from the bed, a thin layer of sweat coating his porcelain skin while a dark shadow wrapped wonderfully around his body. His eyes glared down at the butler, a grimace that betrayed his body painting his face.

“Stop fucking around if you want to be my butler you imbecile.” Sebastian grinned wickedly before swiftly removing the boys boxers. His mouth latched onto Ciel’s member, the boy eliciting a loud moan when he felt warmth encase that body part. He’s barely touched it (Every time he got the weird feeling in his stomach, he would freak and stop) and her Sebastian was, sucking it like a lolly. “N-nggh wa-wait.. slow do-wn!” His body would’ve twitched uncontrollably if it weren’t for the rather large hands holding his stomach down. He could feel the pressure build up more as murmured curses and embarrassing moans left him. His voice cracked, went from super loud to a mere whisper, and even broke as Sebastian sucked harder. His tip was hitting against the back of the ravens throat, the man taking it all with that stupid smirk still in place. “Aahh, Se-Sebastian! Sebastian! Sebastian!”

“Call for me, little one..” He whispered before giving the twitching member one more good hard suck. He hollowed his cheeks, his tongue swirling on the underside and swallowed it all in one gulp when the boys first excitement spurted into his waiting mouth. Ciel was speechless as he craned his neck to watch. Sebastian came up with a grin, only a dribble of Ciel’s seed on his mouth. Blushing, he leaned forward and kissed Sebastian first. Just when the raven was going to get into the kiss, Ciel pulled away with a disgusted face.

“How could you swallow that?! Its gross…” He mumbled, still disturbed. Sebastian just stared at the boy, shaking his head. Oh just one taste was enough to keep him hooked on little Ciel Phantomhive for a long time.

“You’re just so delicious, Young Master.” Ciel scoffed, rolling his eyes.

“I’m shocked at how fast you went from being my teacher to my butler to my…” He trailed off unsure. Sebastian just tilted his head when the younger boy looked at him as if to finish it off. “Nevermind. Now get these stupid shadows off. They’re freaking me out.”

“Thats not what you were saying earlier!~” Sebastian sung while getting rid of the shadows. Ciel watched in a bit of awe as they all crept towards his revealed hand, the one with the weird mark. Once again, the room lit up like it should and Ciel could actually move more freely. He was about to get up and leave but he felt a breeze in a place he shouldn’t have. Realizing what he was, he screamed (manly of course) and threw a pillow at Sebastian.

“Turn around!”

“… what..?”

“Turn around damn it!” Another pillow thrown.

“Why? I mean, I’ve already seen you and I just suck-“

“Sebastian! This is an order, turn around!” Ciel hissed, red faced. Sebastian stiffened, examining the boy one last time before smirking and turning around.

“As you wish, Young Master.” Ciel glared at the mans back before hurriedly putting on his clothes. Once he was finished, he coughed awkwardly.

“I’m done..”

“Good! Now we’re off to yours okay? I need to prepare for you’re dinner anyways.” Sebastian was talking while pretty much dragging the boy out. Claude glared when he saw the two but turned around to go fix something.

“Ciel! What took you so lo- wait.. what?” Alois was still at the car, confused by the pair. Did this mean that Sebastian really did get through Ciel?

“I’m apologize Alo-“

“You can go back to Claude. Sorry for the intrusion Alois. Thanks for letting me stay but now, we’re strangers. I must warn you though, Ciel is mine.” And like that Ciel was shoved into the car while Sebastian took the front and hit the gas with a small chuckle. All Ciel could do on the ride home was think about Sebastian’s words.

Mine.

Chapter 7

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

A week has passed since the whole incident at the Trancy and Phantomhive household. Things went back to normal but were still tense. Whenever Ciel and Alois would pass Mr. Michaelis or Mr. Faustus in the hall, whatever they had been previously talking about would drop as they tried to avoid eye contact with the butlers.

At the Phantomhive Household, Madame Red was in a state of stress. Something about the shipment of new toys being put on hold because of some huge case. There was also the fact that when Ciel had came back last week, his lips were swollen and he had this distant gleam in his eyes. He didn’t tell her if he had made the deal with that horrid man or not and that continued to put her on edge.

At the Trancy Manor, everything was falling in place. Luka was getting used to Claude and had registered for school. He started three days ago and seems to be doing fine but whenever he sees his brother or Ciel in the halls, hes like a Koala. Only Elizabeth was able to get him off the pair because the younger boy had quite the crush on the girl. When she was in the room, it was like she was the sun and he was the moon. It was cute really but Alois didn’t like it one bit.

As for Ciel Phantomhive though, he was struggling with his own problems.

Since last week, Sebastian hasn’t addressed him at all out of school. He wouldn’t even talk to him as much like he used to. Instead he spoke to some snobby brat who always played off key and would step on everyones feet when dancing. It annoyed Ciel to the point that he actually threw his violin bow at the back of the brats head. He was sent to the HeadTeachers office afterwards by a ‘tsking’ Michaelis.

He didn’t know what to do. He wouldn’t ask Alois for advice because his friend would probably get upset by the whole thing and asking Elizabeth wasn’t even a choice. The bubbly blonde would have his head after braiding it.

“…el! Ciel~!!!” Green eyes caught spaced out blue ones making the boy jump back with a sigh. Massaging his temples, he arched a brow at Elizabeth. “The bell rang. Lunch is over, we got to go.” She said with a small pout. Ciel’s been like this all week. He would space out with this dead gaze, staring straight-forward without movement or a word. And it was like he had headphones constantly playing loud music or something because he wouldn’t hear a thing that came out of her or Alois’ mouth. When the bell would ring, they had to actually catch his eye for him to acknowledge the two blondes.

“Sorry..” He mumbled, standing up from his spot against the tree. “Where’s Alois?” He noticed that the blond wasn’t with them at lunch.

“Remember, he told us he had a dentist appointment today.” Lizzy filled in with a small frown. It had only been thirty minutes since Alois had left with Luka. Ciel looked slightly puzzled at first but nodded anyways, throwing his book bag over his shoulder.

“Go on to art, you can’t be late.” Ciel patted her head before taking his own path. Elizabeth sighed, watching his figure disappear down the hall before going her way to Ms. Howell’s.

“You’re late Mr. Phantomhive.” Sebastian stated as soon as Ciel walked in, the bell ringing once the door shut. The class stared at the two with their instruments in hand, all the previous chatter at a halt. Ciel met crimson eyes with a glare, feeling more annoyed as he looked at the blank face. He hadn’t done anything. If anything, Sebastian should be following him around like a puppy after what Ciel did with him.

“I opened the door right when the bell rang. I would hardly call that late.” Ciel scoffed, strolling over to his spot so he could place his things down and get his violin.

“Rules are rules and they don’t stop for you Mr. Phantomhive. It is what it is.” Sebastian marked the boy as late in the attendance log before shutting his laptop, now facing the class with a small smile as Ciel gathered his things. “Anyways, as I was saying before that rude interruption,” Ciel glared at the raven again as he sat down, dropping contact as he gazed out the window the black out the blabbering man. “This year, the drama club is performing Hamlet for the Winter Play and Mr. Knox asked us to be the background music for… you know the intense and emotional scenes. And some of you will be casted as background characters. Unless you audition for some big roles of course but thats up to you.” He pulled down the board and turned on the Smart Projector, the roles in Hamlet popping up. Ciel muted the man out as he watched year 8 went outside for lunch/time.

That was how Sebastian's class went lately for Ciel. He wasn’t as interested anymore and would just stare out the window, blocking out the man smooth voice. Sometimes it was hard though. Like if he heard something relatively dirty, he’d tune in with a light blush or if he heard him “talking” to that brat, he would watch from the corner of his eye. He wouldn’t let Sebastian see of course. If that were to happen, the raven would be winning.

“Elizabeth, I can’t come over for dinner tonight.” Ciel stated out of blue as he and Lizzy walked out of school, excited students rushing past them to get with their friends being that it was Friday. Lizzy didn’t reply as she stared down at her flats. Ciel peeked at her and was a bit taken back by the gloomy expression settling on her face. Instead of a beaming smile or at least a pout, a frown quivered on her lips. “Elizabeth?” He asked surprised, stopping to stand in front of her. Grassy eyes began to fill with tears as she bit her bottom lip, staring up at Ciel. Before he could comfort her or something to make her stop, she ran off. She had pushed him to the side and sprinted to her car, her skirt flying in the wind as she ran. Ciel was going to run after her, he really wanted to but he saw Claude and Sebastian together, walking to more and likely Claude’s car. His feet moved on their own as he hid behind a bush, watching the to interact with slight jealousy.

From Ciel’s view, Sebastian’s back was to him. Claude was talking but he was horrible at reading lips so he stayed quiet. The two talked for a while, a lively Sebastian laugh reaching his ears, making him scowl. He was about to get up with a groan when he saw that whatever they were doing was lame and held no importance but Sebastian slammed his hand on the vehicle, caging the other man between him and his body. Ciel’s eyes widened as he watched his butler lean in, making his stomach do a flip. Before he knew what he was doing, he had chucked his book bag at the raven.

Sebastian froze when he felt books and other unknown things hit his back. Claude was snickering in front of him as he turned around and saw a glaring Ciel Phantomhive. He was about to say something but the boy threw a nearby ball before taking off, leaving his bag behind.

“What a nuisance..” Sebastian sighed as he picked up the book bag. “I guess I won’t be coming over then. Tell Hannah I say hello.” and with that, Sebastian was already on Ciels trail.

They ran through streets, took sharp corners and bumped into a few people but never stopped the pace. Ciel was panting hard, not daring to look back as he surged on. He wasn’t much of a runner so he was shocked by how long he was able to hold up. It wasn’t until he felt a lower pain on his right side that he accidentally tripped.

It seemed to happen in slow motion for Ciel. One minute he was running hopelessly and the next he was in the air, hands out and eyes shut as if to protect him. But the impact never came. He was expecting some pain in his palms and knees but all he felt was heavy pants in his left ear and strong arms coiled around his waist. When he realized who was holding him, he began to squirm, glaring with a blush.

“Let me go! This is an order Sebastian!” He yelled, highly embarrassed. Instead of complying, Sebastian just walked them to the nearby alley and sat down, placing Ciel in his lap.

“Why did you throw your book bag at me then run off so recklessly Young Master?” Sebastian asked with a sigh, shaking his head as he leant it against the young boys shoulder. Ciel blushed again, thinking of how he felt when he saw Claude and Sebastian together.

“Why were you being such an arse this week? Ignoring your Master like that.” He grumbled, crossing his arms on top of Sebastian’s. They both avoided answering the questions, letting peace settle on them as they listened to the joyful chatter of those around them. They could’ve stayed like that for a couple more hours but the alarming blare of Ciel’s phone made him jump. With a groan, he pulled his phone out and answered, “Hello?”

“Young Master, Madame Red wants you home right now.” Tanaka’s voice answered, making Ciel nod. With a few ‘yeah, sure, okay… uh-huh’s, Ciel hung up and put his cell back.

“I got to go. Come on.” Ciel stated, getting up. Sebastian followed his lead, dusting Ciel off much to the boys shock.

“I’ll take you home.” And with that, the two were walking away from the alley and to the Phantomhive manor.

“Have a good dinner Young Master,” Sebastian bowed as Ciel adjusted his book bag strap. The pair had just gotten to the mansion after catching a taxi.

“Idiot. You’re not leaving this time, what type a butler would you be?” Ciel scoffed, marching right up to the teacher and grabbing his tie. Sebastian was shocked as he was practically dragged into the Phantomhive home, Tanaka, MeyRin, and Finny waiting. They too were surprised at the crimson eyed mans appearance but didn’t say anything. “Auntie! I’’m home!” Sebastian was still being led on by Ciel, the familiar pictures in the halls still in place even after all these years. They finally made it to the dining room where Madame Red was sitting, probably waiting for her food that Tanaka would bring. She was about to greet Ciel happily until she noticed the man besides her nephew.

“What is he doing here?” She hissed, her discarding gaze forming into a glare.

“He is my butler after all. Anyways, I’m hungry. Whats for dinner?” Ciel was quick to change the subject, sitting down with Sebastian quietly standing by his side. Anne’s eye twitched at the scene before her, an uneasy recognition coming back to her mind. She would’ve kicked the butler out but something stopped her with shock.

Ciel was smiling.

Notes:

BLEH idk how i feel for this chapter. I just saw @Jessyo, @ deificwriting_kimeyoa AND OF COURSE @FallenAngel1129 comments and haaad to update. SORREH FOR LE WAIT GUISE ;-;

but enjoy :3

[luxaofhesperides]

these lingering remains

@tucweek DAY TWO: SACRIFICE

also on ao3

. . .

He still dreams about falling. The nightmares linger, even now, years after everything. He wakes up most nights with his heart in his throat, free-falling to his death and no one is there to grab his hand. It’s terrible; it’s the only thing he has left of Ares.

The feeling of falling, the feeling of being caught, of trusting his bond to be there. The feeling of holding Ares’ claw in his hand, first to save him, then to die with him. 

Gregor is used to living off of four hours of sleep a night. It’s not difficult when he doesn’t go to school; his many, many scars would bring up too many questions, so his parents homeschool him while Lizzie and Boots live normal lives.

Sometimes he wishes he could talk about it-- the Underland, a taboo topic in the household. But no one would really understand him if he said he wants to go back. The Underland is the place that took their father away, held him captive and tortured by gnawers, the place that brought a plague to his mother, the place that drew his anxious sister into a war, the place that nearly killed Boots time and time again. 

It’s the place that destroyed him in so many ways; body, mind, and soul. 

It’s the place that killed his bond.

But it’s also the place that gave him the people who changed his life: Luxa, Hazard, Vikus, Mareth. Even Ripred, as horrible as he is. 

Gregor misses them everyday, feels their absence like a wound; always present, always hurting. 

He knows no one else will understand his connection to the Underland, so he keeps quiet, keeps waking up shaking, and doesn’t say a thing.

Virginia is never quiet in the summer. Cicadas cry every second of the day, birds chirp endlessly while the sun is up, and crickets fill the night air with sound. After spending most of his life in New York City, living on a farm in a small town feels like living in another world. Everything is different: the people, the sights, even the air itself moves differently. 

Gregor tries his best not to leave the house. For a few months, his mother tries to get him to go to town with her to help with shopping, but pulling up his sleeve to show her his multitude of scars quickly put a stop to that. His body is a map of his time in the Underland, and invites too many questions. His mother, refusing to acknowledge the Underland, always turns away from his scars and keeps quiet. 

His father spends some nights with him, when nightmares wake them both. There’s no saxophone to play anymore, not with his father’s damaged hands, but they sit together outside to look at the stars. Looking up helps distract them from their time below ground. 

Gregor wonders what Luxa would say, if she saw the stars. 

Lizzie remembers too much; her anxiety keeps the memories well kept in her mind. She freezes when she hears anything resembling rats running, keeps to open spaces, doesn’t solve code breakers anymore. She’s the only one who talks about the Underland with him. She speaks of the people, of Ripred, of baby nibblers. She asks about Ares and Luxa and Vikus, and she doesn’t look away from his scars. 

There’s still much he refuses to tell her; how ready he was to die when the Bane’s claws ripped into Ares, how he never thought he’d survive this long. He doesn’t speak of the war, or any other time he’s nearly died. Some things are better left unsaid. 

And Boots. Boots was so young, could only properly say his name after everything was over. Sometimes she sings the bathing song, or babbles something in the crawler’s language. Sometimes she asks about fliers, or asks to see Hazard. Each time, everyone freezes, unsure of what to tell her. 

His mother decides to let Boots live a normal life and instructs everyone to tell her it was a game she made up. The Underland isn’t real, it was just her imagination. 

And Gregor, carrying the burden of loving a land he can’t return to, obeys.

“Gregor, didn’t we see these before?” Boots asks, holding up a book about frogs in the Amazon. Poisonous frogs, all brightly colored. Gregor stares at the illustrations, remembering the desperate search for Starshade and the fear that consumed him when he saw Boots sitting amidst a swarm of frogs. 

He swallows, trying to speak around the sudden dryness of his throat. “See them where?”

“Before we moved here! We saw them, right?”

“Yeah, once. At the zoo. They were having an exhibit about the Amazon rainforest.”

Boots frowns, squinting down at the page as if she’s trying to find a reason to say he’s wrong. But after five years, Boots doesn’t remember much about the Underland at all. Lying is easy, when the truth can’t be remembered. 

Please don’t keep asking, Gregor pleads internally. There’s not much else he can say. It’s lucky enough that Boots never asks about his scars; to her, he’s always had them. Why wouldn’t he have scars?

“What about bats?” Boots asks next, “Did we see bats too?”

Gregor’s breath catches in his throat, choking him for a moment. If she remembered Ares… If she remembered any of them....

Lizzie walks into the living room, immediately catching sight of them. He doesn’t know what he looks like, but it must be bad enough for Lizzie to immediately come over and get Boots’ attention away from him.

“What’s that?” she peers at the book Boots is holding. 

“A book about frogs!” Boots holds it up for Lizzie to take, quickly forgetting her question. “We saw them at the zoo before we moved!”

Lizzie glances at him, and Gregor nods. “I didn’t go to the zoo with you that day. Do you remember a lot about the frogs?”

“No! I just remember them jumping.”

“Frogs do tend to jump.”

“What about bats? Do bats in zoos jump?” Lizzie looks at Gregor again, eyes wide, as Boots asks turns her interrogation onto Lizzie.

“No, bats fly. Gregor, mom wanted you to help her in the kitchen.”

Taking the exit gratefully, Gregor quickly makes his escape, leaving Lizzie to field Boots’ curiosity. He feels almost sick from the conversation; Boots was always with him in the Underland, she’s the only one who traveled through the Underland with him, and she barely remembers any of it. Instead of the jungle, or Regalia, or the Waterway, it’s a zoo, an amusement park, a river that she thinks she went to. 

He’s the only remnant of the Underland left now. No one else in his family experienced it as he did, as a part of Regalia instead of an unlucky Overlander who got caught by gnawers. 

“Mom,” he whispers when he enters the kitchen, and his mother immediately drops the vegetables she was cutting to guide him to the kitchen table and sit him down. 

“What’s wrong?” she asks, a hand brushing over his forehead. 

“Boots,” he says, “She remembered the frogs we saw in the jungle. Down there. I told her we went to a zoo and saw them. But she remembered the frogs and… the bats.”

His mother presses her hands down against he shoulders, grounding him. “It’s for the best. She should live a normal life. She’s the only one who can. I know it’s hard for you, but there’s nothing else we can do.”

He knows she’s right. If Boots remembered too much, too clearly, she’d tell all her classmates and teachers about it. It would invite questions they can’t answers, bring back painful memories that they’re all trying so hard to move past. But Gregor can’t forget or move on; the Underland changed him too much, engraved itself into his body over and over again. He will never live a normal life, not after being the subject of a prophecy and turned into a child warrior, not after nearly losing both his parents and having to shoulder the responsibility of keeping his family alive when he was just an 12 year old kid who wanted to look after his baby sister.

But she’s right; Boots is young enough that the Underland is like a long dream to her. She can live a life without it. She’s the only one who can.

He remembers how happy Hazard was to play with someone closer to his age, someone who loved languages and other creatures like he did. 

He bites his tongue, and keeps lying.

The Underland isn’t real, it was just a game. All the animals we saw were from the zoo. Be good, Boots, and go play with your friends. Stay away from grates and manholes. Be good, Boots, be normal.

Gregor wakes up shaking, his hand achingly empty. The phantom feeling of Ares’ claw remains. In the morning, he lies to Boots and says he was up late reading and that’s why he’s so tired.

He stays home and misses the comforting dark of the Underland. He clicks his tongue in a dark bathroom, and imagines that he’s back down there and just outside the hall, Luxa waits for him. His clicks his tongue, and all that comes back is the faint outline of a mirror which only holds his reflection.

No one speaks of the Underland. 

They move on, and leave him behind.

[murderousginger]

She’s A God

Peaky blinder fic Tommy x reader

Masterlist

Warnings: Sass. Alcohol. They’re criminals guys, they do bad things.

Word count: 4,183

You often kept your head down at the office, typing up your work as a secretary in the Shelby Company Limited. You knew the kind of people you worked for and didn't want blue eyes interested in you unless it was an offhand comment on a good job on a task. 

One such pair of eyes passed you on the way to his office with a murmur of your name and the same as he passed Lizzie, whose desk was directly in front of his door. Tommy Shelby was very polite and quiet in the office, unlike his brothers.

"Good morning, Mr. Shelby," you said back as you ducked your head.

You dressed modestly in hopes to be overlooked, unlike some of the other women that were employed there. You would see their hungry eyes on Peaky men and the hope that they would catch attention. Sometimes they did. Moments spent in offices would occur before they were all but patted on the ass and sent back to their seats, their satisfied faces would turned back to their work. You never faulted those women but you weren't one for a tryst, especially one that could endanger you.

Today, you let your mind wander as you typed your work. Today, Tommy Shelby had placed invitations to his housewarming party on all of the desks in the office.

Everyone knew the Shelby family history like it was Small Heath lore.

From a young age, Tommy had decided he didn't believe in God. As a small boy with a hungry family, a dead mother, and a runaway father, he concluded pretty quickly that even if there was a God, he stopped stepping into Small Heath long before Tommy was born. 

Polly had taken the Shelby siblings in to raise when she was young and had a small family of her own. She ruled the house over the Shelby children and her own two with an iron voice and a quick hand. She worked while her husband drank away their money and she often put herself between him and the children when he decided to become violent. She had worked tirelessly to feed and clothe the kids, pushing them to get through as much schooling as they could in hopes for a better life. She stayed strong when her husband died, and fought to keep the kids and raise eight children by herself. She lost her children but managed to keep the Shelby's close.

She watched Tommy, Arthur and John work together to start the Peaky Blinders and provide protection for pay to Small Heath businesses. She sewed in the first razorblades into the boys caps, overseeing their attempts at replicating her work when they needed more for the neighborhood boys they recruited. 

She watched Arthur, then Tommy, then John, all enlist and leave for France, once bright boys with mischief in their eyes and dreams in their heads come back from war scarred, tempered, and broken. She hesitantly released the Peaky Blinders leadership to Tommy, slipping between soldier and advisor when it suited her. 

Everyone knew that Tommy Shelby might not have thought to fear God, but he feared his Aunt Polly. 

During your employment, you noticed that fear translated rather easily to respect of strong, intelligent women now he was an adult. It's not that Tommy disrespected women he didn't find intelligent, it was more that he shook them off once they lost their usefulness. Pretty women were to be looked at but rarely stayed around. Weak women were quickly discarded if they came around at all. The Shelby's were not known to be sensitive. But an intelligent woman? She was worth her weight in gold if she could be trusted.

Few outside of direct family were trusted. Wives -- if they lived long enough and proved helpful at family meetings -- and for a reason you did not understand, Lizzie Stark. 

You and Lizzie were friendly enough to each other. Not exactly best friends, but you would both take lunch together and enjoy each other's company from time to time. Too many women were jealous of Lizzie because of the moments she was called into Tommy's office and the shades were drawn. 

You pitied her. Not because of what she agreed to do with Tommy Shelby behind closed doors, but because you weren't sure the man had a heart that would ever open to a woman. You noticed the glances Lizzie would give him from time to time, and you felt for her. 

"Are you coming to Tommy's housewarming tonight?"

You jumped, shaken from the thoughts in your head, and saw Lizzie sitting on the edge of your desk looking down at you expectantly. 

"I'm not sure…" you trailed.

"Come with me, please!" Lizzie smiled, touching your shoulder. "It'll be a night of a free meal and flowing alcohol. We can take a car together. It'll be fun!"

"Are you not staying?" You immediately blushed as Lizzie shrunk back, her face pinched at the question. "No! Not like that. It's just… I wasn't sure if you would stay the night."

You tried to backtrack, to soften your question. 

"No, no, I know," Lizzie said with a soft smile as she shook off your comment. "I'm not staying. He's… not been visiting."

She let the comment hang before her eyes lit up again and she grabbed your hand.

"Though we both could stay. He's got plenty of rooms and offered refuge for anyone that comes and has a little too much fun."

"I'm not sure…" you looked back at your work and then back to Lizzie. 

"Have a little fun once in your life," she goaded. "You're always so serious and proper. Relax a little."

"I guess if it's one night," you said, nervously eyeing your work. You let go of her and resumed typing. Lizzie laughed and got off of the corner of your desk, pointing to you.

"Wear a nice dress," she said. "I'll be in a car to get you this evening. We'll go together. It'll be fun." 

You smiled and nodded. It wasn't that you didn't want to have fun. You were just wound up tighter than most. And although you lived in Small Heath your entire life, the Blinders were something you were leery of. 

You were used to being overlooked. You were comfortable that way. You weren't looking for attention and definitely didn't want it from men that were known to be dangerous. They might not be violent toward women on the streets but there were plenty of beaten wives behind closed doors in Birmingham and you wanted no part. You cared little for a husband. Your goal was independence. 

You took this job to remove yourself from your father's household. After years of him coming back from the factory or more typically The Garrison to beat you and your mother, you finally had enough. After a short time of saving, you bought board at a house and began to save what you could toward your own cottage. These were modern times and you put everything into being a modern woman. 

But one night wouldn't hurt your plans, and you had an idea on exactly which dress to wear.

----

You went home a mix between excited and worried. Your head raced with thoughts of who all would come, what would be served, would you catch someone's eye? Did you want to? How many blinders would be mixed into the crowd? Would it be dangerous? What if it was boring?

You smoothed your dress as you looked into the mirror and assessed your reflection. The flowy sage dress was covered in antique gold lace and made you feel divine. The green silk fabric made up the shift and the delicate lace covered the green fabric and your arms with sheer long sleeves. The dress itself stopped halfway up your calves, leaving a little skin and plenty of space to see your simple heels.

You had coveted it the moment you saw it in the window and bought it against your better judgement. One nice thing wouldn't hurt the goal of a cottage, you reasoned at the time. It was the nicest dress you had ever owned and now you had a reason to wear it. 

Lizzie arrived in a car outside your building and all but pulled you out of your door when you answered it, laughing as you fought back to close the door behind you. 

"Come on, (Y/N)," she laughed. "We can't be late. All the fun will be over."

You giggled as you both stumbled down your stairs and toward the car. You gawked at how short Lizzie's burgundy dress was, nearly above her knee, when you both sat down in the back seat. She smiled slyly as she noticed you look.

"Do you like it?" She asked, pulling on the beading. "I'm told it's the newest fashion in London." 

Lizzie's smile fell as you looked between your dress and hers, biting your lip.

"Your dress is gorgeous, too," she said as her smile widened and she dipped her head to meet your eyes. "Tonight's all a bit of fun. There will be all types of people in all types of dress. I bet you anything Shelly will be wearing something scandalous in attempts to gain Arthur's eye."

You both laughed. You nodded as you took her hand. 

"Or Mrs. May in something frumpy and terribly sized as she glares at the rest of us," you add, earning new fits of laughter.

"Ladies of this age have no respect for themselves," Lizzie mocked, her voice low and raspy. "You all look like you should be on your back near the canal."

"She would know, wouldn't she?" You snorted. "Acts like no one knew who she was before her marriage. Mum said she used to work the docks. Now she helps the church on Sundays."

Lizzie rolled her eyes. 

"I'll never understand women that can't accept their own past," she said. 

"That's why I appreciate you," you smiled, bumping her shoulder. "You don't pretend you're something that you're not."

"I'll leave the pretending for the rich folk," she mused as she leaned back on you. "Thank you for not being as judgmental as some of the other girls are."

You shrugged. 

"Not my place to judge."

----

The house was massive. You both audibly gasped as you turned into his drive and saw the house at the end of it. There was so much land. The driver entered the circle drive with the other cars, waiting until he reached the peak to stop for a young man to open the door and take Lizzie's hand. Another rounded the car and opened the door for you, tilting his flat cap with a "ma'am" as you allowed him to help you out of the car. 

You took his arm with a murmured thanks and he led you to the door. You and Lizzie both stood in the entryway wide-eyed as the chandelier glowed above you. There were already dozens of guests and more poured in behind you. Some were people you knew from work, while others had the signature cap, and even more were strangers dressed in far nicer clothes than yours. You started to grow uneasy in the chaos. 

Lizzie took your arm in hers and urged you to move forward, taking two glasses off of a tray and thrusting one into your hands. 

"Smile," she laughed, sipping her own drink. "This is a night to relax."

You nod numbly, downing your drink to calm your nerves. You hear Lizzie burst into laughter beside you as the bubbles fill your head.

Soon enough, Thomas Shelby appeared and everyone hushed, turning their attention to the man that had invited them all. He stood in a doorway, smile tight as he tried to scan the room to look at everyone and no one.

"Welcome, everyone, to my humble abode," Tommy said, eliciting chuckles around the room. "Without you, my business partners, family, and employees, I would not have been able to get this far. If you follow me to the dining room, we'll all have a lovely dinner that my new chef made special for tonight. If it's not to taste, well, he's new."

Everyone laughed and clapped as he turned around, leading everyone to a massive dining room that had a table to fit all of the guests. 

You held onto Lizzie's arm as you both wandered into the room and sat near the middle of the table near some of the other secretaries that came. As you all sat down, maids rushed in with silver platters, first serving Tommy at the head of the table and slowly spreading plates down the sides to his guests. You thanked her as she placed some sort of chicken meal in front of you. 

"Do you think this is Italian or French?" Shelly, who had indeed decided to wear something scandalous, murmured at you. 

"I'd imagine Italian," you murmured back. 

Arthur stood up from his seat at the opposite end of the table and raised his glass. 

"Before we eat, I wanted to raise a glass to my brother," he sounded over the crowd. "For always taking care of us. Now you have something for yourself as well. To Tommy!"

Everyone raised their glasses and toasted before they started in on the food. 

The dinner itself was nice and the food was delicious. You talked amongst the other people around you, mostly the secretaries and a few odd people that had intermingled with the girls. You watched the room quietly but tried to keep your head bowed. 

"I think the boss is watching you," Shelly hissed at your side as she nudged you. "He looks away in his conversation but looks over to you at times."

"Surely not," you said, taking a drink from your glass and casually looking over to Lizzie and the end of the table. "I'm next to Lizzie. He's just looking at her."

"I know he's not looking at me," she fumed. 

"Perhaps you should act less eager," you monotoned. Shelly scoffed and rolled her eyes. 

The thought would not leave your head once it was said, and you grew increasingly nervous. As Tommy stood and asked everyone to meet in another room for drinks and celebrating, you rose with everyone else but felt your throat constrict. As you exited the dining room you nudged Lizzie.

"I think I'm going to find a room and take a breath for a moment," you smiled weakly as she looked at you with concern. "I'm fine, really. The crowd is just working my nerves. I'll take a breath and be right out to join you for another drink."

"As long as you're fine," she smiled and patted your hand. "Come find me when you need me." 

"Of course," you smiled as you slipped the opposite way of the crowd and opened a random door in the hallway. 

You entered what looked like a study room, but twice the size of most that you had seen before. You eyed the library of books to the left of the desk that sat in front of a massive window that overlooked the black night outside.

You took a deep breath and walked toward the bookshelf, running your fingers around the bindings and reading the names. Your nerves started to calm right before you heard the door handle rattle.

Tommy Shelby opened the door to the study and you both froze as you locked eyes. Shock and confusion shadowed his face until he cleared his throat and softly closed the door behind him. He turned back to you with a blank face. You stood frozen beside his bookshelf next to his desk.

"Would you like a whiskey, (Y/N)?" He asked as he rounded the room. "Or have you had plenty already? In vino veritas and all that."

He reached the decant of whiskey across the room from you and brought out two glasses. 

"I don't normally drink, Mr. Shelby," you said shakily. "But since you are my host, thank you."

"You don't care for alcohol?" He asked, his back to you as he poured.

"It makes people do stupid things, in my opinion," you answered. "Nemo mortalium omnibus horis sapit."

Tommy froze and sat the decanter down, slowly turning to you with his brows gathered between his eyes. 

"What was that?" He said as his head cocked at you. 

You shifted uncomfortably as you leaned back on his desk to steady yourself. 

"It means: 'Of mortal men, none is wise at all times,'" you breathed out as you mirrored his surprised expression. "Did you quote a language without knowing it?"

He licked his lip as he watched you closely, his expression fading back to neutral. He turned to pick up the glasses and squared his body back to you, leaning on the shelf behind him. 

"Latin is old," he said. "I only know a few phrases."

"Perhaps you should know a language before you use it," you said before blushing at your boldness. "Sorry, Mr. Shelby. That was forward."

You watched him fight to keep his expressions under the tranquil stillness of his blank face, but his eyes showed a storm raging in his brain. 

"Forward," he agreed, "but not entirely wrong. 'Lupus non timet canem lantrantem.'"

You laughed at his fumbling of words and quieted when you noticed his eyes harden.

"A wolf might not have to fear a barking dog, Mr. Shelby," you said, gathering the courage you felt rising in your chest as you walked to your boss and lifted the glass of whiskey from his hand. "Auribus teneo lupum. But I seem to be holding a wolf by the ears."

You walked back to your spot and leaned on his desk again. You felt his eyes roam your body as you walked back, and it gave you another shot of courage as you sipped the whiskey.

"I didn't know you were a whore, (Y/N)," he said as he took a drink. "And a learned whore at that. Really should be paying you more as a secretary with that on your resume."

"I'm not a whore."

"Then why are you in my office, eh?" he taunted, running his tongue along the edge of his glass. "I was told I had a whore waiting for me tonight. Want to fuck?"

"I'm not that easy, Mr. Shelby."

"You came tonight with Lizzie, didn't you?" He asked. "You share one occupation but not the other?"

"I've never found a need great enough to do so," you scoffed. "Someone left you misinformed."

He chuckled. 

"So you don't drink excessively, you aren't a whore -- let me guess, you're also a good girl that doesn't gamble?" Tommy eyed you carefully as he lit a cigarette from his breast pocket and inhaled it. "Catholic?"

"I don't bet on fixed races," you said, lowering your eyes as you said it. "I'm not particularly a believer of God. But from my understanding, neither are you."

"All men find religion between a woman's legs," he retorted, a smile spreading across his face as you squirmed. You hummed acknowledgement as you glared at him.

"Morals don't do well in this company," he mused, watching every twitch of movement you made under his gaze. "The only moral I ask for from my employees is loyalty to me."

"I've managed fine," you said. "Not everyone is made for the thick of your businesses."

"Right you are," he hummed. "Only the ambitious."

"Qui totum vult totum perdit," your voice cut through the air. "He who wants everything loses everything."

Tommy squinted at you as his jaw ticked, taking his time to roll the cigarette across his lips. 

"Are you from a rich family, (Y/N)?"

"God no," you barked a laugh. "My father comes home from The Garrison every night. Born and raised in Small Heath, sir."

He visibly relaxed in front of you. His shoulders slouched, but his eyes were still sharp and calculating. 

"Call me Tommy," he shrugged 'sir' off like he was removing dust from a coat. "Work is done. You're my guest. So tell me, how did you come about learning latin then, eh?"

"I've used the library since I was small, sir-- Tommy," you shrugged and watched his eyes light up. 

He covered the crook of a smile by putting his cigarette back to his mouth for another inhale. 

"Small Heath doesn't have a library," he said as he exhaled the smoke, his eyes sharpening as he took a step forward. "Never had the funding."

"I know," you said, biting your lip. "On my free days I walk to Deritend to use their library."

"Quite a walk, isn't it?" He hummed as he took a step closer. 

"Yes, but it makes for a nice day," you shifted in place. "I usually use a little money for lunch and stay til dinner."

"Stay all day in a library?" Tommy smiled and ran a finger over his lip before he let out the smoke. "Shouldn't that make you a teacher instead of a typist for a dirty company?"

You flushed but refused to let your head dip, even though you desperately wanted to cower from the man in front of you. He was weighing you. Tommy Shelby was used to people cowering. You wouldn't give him the pleasure. Not after he already tried demeaning you.

"Teaching requires certificates," you said simply. "I only saved money for one, so typing it was. I like to learn. Keeps my brain busy. Besides," your lip curled at the edge, "I was never fond of helping those that didn't want to better themselves."

"Self taught can go far around here," he said more to himself than you. "Whatever your reason for sneaking into my study, how would you like to be a tutor?"

"To you?" Your eyebrow quirked as you stifled your amusement. 

"My youngest brother, Finn," Tommy said evenly as he shot you a warning look. "He's getting older and I'd like for him to join the business, but reading has never been his sport. If you can get him up to speed, I'll pay you for the time."

"I'm not sure" you drawled, eyes scanning the office as you tried to quickly think of a way out of the deal. 

"The money will be cash, from me," he said, taking another step toward you. He was nearly beside you now. "No need to add it to business expenses or worry about taxes. Just a nice bit of pocket change. You can use it to buy yourself more pretty dresses, eh?"

How eyes dipped to your dress and back to your face. Your eyes widened as your brows dropped and you glared at the man once his words sunk into your bones. You stood up straight and raised your chin.

"Although I appreciate you think this dress is pretty, I have far better ways to spend money, Mr. Shelby," you gritted between your teeth. "I would think the nephew of Polly Gray wouldn't be so flippant with a woman, especially when he's asking her a favor."

"And I would not expect a woman under my employment to backtalk me," he said amused. "What is your goal in life, then, sweetheart? If pretty dresses aren't what you teach yourself Latin for."

You bubbled with anger and fought the words down that wanted to spew from your mouth. 

"You may be my employer, but I will find another if you think I'll allow verbal abuse," you said stiffly. "Perhaps you're so polite and quiet in the office because otherwise you would lose your workforce."

He crossed the remaining distance between you in a stride. You leaned back until you were practically sitting on his desk. His face was inches from yours.

"I didn't get to where I am today by being a gentleman when words don't get my way," he growled as he curled his fingers around your neck.

"I know what you are," you said and felt his hand wrap tighter around your throat until it took effort to raise your voice. 

"And what is that?"

"You don't seem the type in want of a partner," you whispered as you licked your lips and tried to keep eye contact. "You wouldn't force a girl because you don't need to. This is just to scare me. Because you want to. Because you like it."

Tommy chuckled darkly as his eyes looked from your eyes to your lips. 

"Have any latin phrases in your mind now?"

"Dulce periculum," you said. "Danger is sweet."

"That it is, (Y/N)," he said as he caressed your cheek with his other hand. "You can start tutoring Finn tomorrow after your shift. You can use my office if you'd like."

"Yes, Mr. Shelby," you tone as he let go of your neck. 

You never knew you could feel so numb but so electric at the same time. Tommy chuckled, lifting your chin until you met his eyes again. 

"I said call me Tommy, sweetheart."

Part 2

[1787americanrevnerd]

The Life of Rebecca Barnes

Sorry if the dates are wrong, I tried my best to do the math.

The Howling Commandos had finally tracked down the only living family of James Barnes. James never talked about his personal life before the war to any of the Commandos and he really only talked to Steve. And since the Barnes' family is very closed off, it was hard to find James's family to offer condolences. He had died a while ago in the Swiss Alps, the army was going to send a letter but the Commandos thought it would be better to say it in person.When they came to the small apartment in NYC and knocked on the door they were not expecting a young girl with three other kids clinging onto her. The girl had frizzy, curly, hip-length dark brown hair. The Commandos knew this was the right house because the girl had the same smile as James.

"Hello, what can I do for you?" she asked. Dum Dum spoke next, "Is it okay if we come inside we worked with James." The girl nodded and ushered them inside. "Rikki, who are these people," asked a little girl with dirty blonde hair and green eyes. "Well, Lizzy these are some of Jamie's friends." Rikki picked up Lizzy and put her on her hip. "Is Stevie coming?" The Commandos felt guilty at the question Lizzy asked, Steve died the day previous."Anyway, what brings you to my apartment?" asked Rikki. "Well we are looking for a Rebecca is she home?" said Gabe Jones. "Oh, that's me, Rikki's a nickname my stupid brother gave me when we were kids." The Commandos now felt even more saddened by the news they were about to give the Barnes family. "Could we talk in private," one of the Commandos asked Rebecca.

Rikki led them into a separate room so that they could talk privately. "So why are you at my house?" asked Rikki. The Commandos knew that they should rip the bandaid off but it's still difficult to take off the bandaid. "Rikki that's a funny nickname," said Jim trying to start a conversation. "Yeah, I would always try to annoy my brother by calling him Jamie because he didn't like to be called, and I quote, "A name meant for a girl" so I always called him Jamie. He then started to call me Rikki since it sounds like a boy's name. And it just kind of stuck.""Ms. Barnes we have some unfortunate news to tell you," said Jack. Rebecca stiffened, "Is Jamie okay?" All of the Commandos looked down and Rebecca gasped. "He died in action, we were ambushing a train in the swiss alps and your brother fell off the side. He died fighting, I'm sorry for your loss," said Gabe. "Why isn't Steve here telling me this then?" questioned Rebecca. "Steve died crashing a plane into the ice in order to save millions," explained Dum Dum. They tried to say nice things to her like, "It's okay." "They died for a greater cause" but with every word Rebecca got angrier. Rebecca stood up and wiped off her tears, " No it's not okay my brothers died! For you people, and then you start saying meaningless words to me about it. Get out, get out of my house goddamn it!" The Commandos left silently not wanting to upset Rebecca further.

Rebecca went to her siblings, "I have some bad news, Stevie and Jamie died in the war." Lizzy and Martha went quiet and Linda, who was only a baby, started to cry. Rebecca wanted to cry too, but she had to stay strong like Jamie always did.Once the kids went to bed Rebecca dropped on the floor and started crying. "We can't even bury a body," she said over and over again. Jamie was always so full of life it's hard to imagine him dead. Deep down inside Rebecca believed that he was not dead, they had always had a twin-like bond, even though there was a 3 year age difference, meaning that they always knew what the other thought and the other well-being. Rebecca Barnes hated the people responsible for her brother's death and Rebecca needed to bring them to justice.

One Year Later

Rebecca wanted to do something worthwhile and she thought joining the S.S.R. was the only way to do so. Rebecca had good grades and experience with things the S.S.R did. She had taken criminology and forensic science in school and had just finished her combat training.When she was in the office and the man put down her file her looked up at her and said, "Why should we hire you?" he asks. Rebecca thinks about it and says, " I want to make the world a safer place and-" The man cuts her off, "No, no, no, I mean why would we hire you a woman. We already have Margret." Rebecca stands up and slaps her hands on the table, "Listen here you short sexist piece of sh*t, if a man came in here with the file I have I know for a fact you would hire him. Also, it is my human right to be able to work if I want to, I'm leaving so give me a letter when you make up your mind."

As she stormed out she was cut off by Margret Carter, "I agree with what you said about the chief being a short sexist," she didn't finish her sentence being a proper lady. Rebecca however was not, "Piece of sh*t." Peggy nodded. "I know a great Diner around here would you like to go once my shift is over?" Rebecca didn't have many friends this would be good for her. "Sure I would love to."

When they went to the diner Peggy led them to a booth and she sat down. "So what's your name?" asked Peggy. Rebecca hadn't even realized that they didn't know each other's names. "Rebecca Barnes," she said simply. Peggy froze at the surname remembering someone who was lost in the war. "Peggy Carter," Peggy said thinking that Barnes was a very popular surname it could be a whole other family.

"Do you have any siblings?" Peggy asked. "I have three younger sisters, Elizabeth, Lidia, and Margret. And I ha- had one brother, James," answered Rebecca. Peggy was now sure that this is the sister of James Buchanan Barnes. "What about you do you have any siblings?" asked Rebecca in return. "Yes I also had an older brother," replied Peggy. "I'm sorry for your loss," replied Rebecca. "It's okay, it was a long time ago." Rebecca was very easy to talk to, and she wasn't like the people Peggy was usually drawn to. She was far from a proper lady, she sat like someone who was not taught proper edict, and she was wearing pants. Not pants made for women but pants that probably belonged to a man at some point. "Your pants where did you get them?" Peggy asked. "They're hand-me-downs, from my brother. Money was never tight at my house but it just made me feel more normal, you know wearing hand-me-downs like most other younger siblings. Anyway enough about me, what's your deal?"

"I have worked in the SSR for a long time and I didn't get many jobs or respect until the war when I helped with Project Rebirth. After the war, well I turned into the secretary. I want to show people that I can do just as much as a man can and that I didn't just become an Agent because there weren't enough men to do the job. Why are you here?" Rebecca knew her answer, " You might not like it or agree with it but, I want to take down the people that hurt me and so many families. I don't want anyone else's brother to die because of a war. And the only way to do that is to rid the world of insane people who want to take over the world." Peggy nodded, "Well seeing as we will be the only women in the department I look forward o filing papers with you and hopefully putting "villains" in jail." Rebecca smiled and took a sip of her water, this felt like a good thing.

2 years later

It was Rebecca's first mission, there was no one left to do it. She had to take down some drug dealers. When she got to the location something was wrong the drug dealers were there all right but there were other people there. They had the HYDRA symbol on their jackets. Oh, how stupid had we been to think that if we killed the leader that they would die she thought. She had to move closer to get a better look.

She went up in the vents in order to hear and see everything clearly. Unfortunately, the vents were not very strong and she fell from them. The drug dealers left and the HYDRA soldiers pinned her to the ground. "Let's see who you are," the soldier said as he reached for the dog tags she wore. "These say, James Barnes, you can't be him. You must be his sister but which one? Are you Martha, Lidia, or maybe Elizabeth? Wait you are in your twenty's oh yes you must be Rebecca. Your brother's favorite."

"What are you going to do to me now that I know you still exist?" she asked. "Nothing, we know that you will be too scared to tell. Now run along and don't come back. She ran back not wanting to die. But she will tell people about Hydra.

Once she was out of earshot the soldier said, "Send the Winter Soldier after her. We can't have her knowing about us, or him."

---------------------------------------------------------------------Rebecca was on a date with her boyfriend of one year, William Proctor. They had stayed at Rebecca's house since they were an interracial couple so no one would serve them at restaurants. "So how was work today?" asked William. "It was good," lied Rebecca. She still hadn't told him about her real job he thought she was working at a DMV. "You're lying, you always take a sip of your wine and look left when you lie," said William. If he wasn't catching her lie Rebecca would have thought that it was very sweet that he notices the small things about her. "It wasn't the best but, I did get to try something different. William, I don't work at the DMV, I'm working at the S.S-" at that moment a metal hand went through the wall.

It was a man dressed in what seemed to be kevlar, he had a district metal arm, and was wearing a mask. Or a muzzle, part of Rebecca thought. "Is this someone from work?" asked William sarcastically. "Yeah, I was trying to track down some drug dealers, ran into HYDRA. I guess they sent their puppet after me," she replied. The man didn't like her comment very much because he started to attack her. Rebecca blocked most of his punches until his knife cut into her right shoulder, he then pulled it down to her wrist causing a massive cut along her arm. "Rebecca are you okay?" asked William from where he was standing in the kitchen. "Yeah just throw me a wrench or a knife!" yelled Rebecca. She had an idea, it might not be great and was based on a very flimsy theory but she wanted to try nonetheless. Once, William passed her a long kitchen knife she tried to shove it into one of the slots on the metal arm. She was successful she then twisted them with great struggle though since the man was trying to kill her. William came from behind and put two more objects in the man's metal arm. By this time Rebecca had already done quite a bit of damage. Knowing that he would lose the man left. Rebecca then collapsed in William's arms.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------"So how did you really cut the entirety of your right arm?" asked Peggy. "What do you mean? I was in a car crash and I cut myself on the window," answered Rebecca. "That's absolute rubbish, you're a great driver. Also, you're a terrible liar," Peggy told her. Rebecca sighed, "A man broke into my house, probably working for the people I "met" a few days back, he cut my arm." Peggy nodded, "What did he look like maybe I know about him." Rebecca thought back to the most distinct thing about him, "He a metal arm for his left arm." Peggy's eyes widened, "People have been talking about him, civilians I mean, a man with a metal left arm comes up at least once with every political murder after the war. People started to call him the Winter Soldier, the S. S. R. has been looking into him for a while now, but nothing comes up, he's like a ghost." Rebecca smirked, "Well then it must be a miracle that I'm still alive."

2 years later

This was Rebecca's first mission since she found out she was pregnant. She and William had decided that William would stop working, he didn't like his job much anyway. Rebecca almost got fired because the S. S. R. didn't want to pay for her maternity leave. She told her boss that she wouldn't take the leave, her husband (they aren't technically married but they have known each other for three years) would be home taking care of the child. She still went on missions since she only had a small baby bump. Nothing dangerous though, just a stakeout with Peggy and Howard. She told them about HYDRA well, she told Peggy and Howard overheard. She and Howard didn't get along, he was egotistical and cocky, two traits Rebecca hated. Howard had an equal despise for her, she was too reckless, something that wasn't always a good thing.

HYDRA was loading a truck nothing too interesting until the Winter Soldier came out to help them. He doesn't have his mask on but he was far away so no point in trying to figure out who he is, thought Rebecca. "Hey he kind of looks like Barnes," pointed out Howard. "I'm right here Stark, " growled Rebecca. "No, I mean your brother," explained Howard. Peggy leaned forward and squinted her eyes, "I mean from a distance." Rebecca laughed, "Why would Jamie be working for HYDRA? Also, my brother is incredibly vain, there is no way he'd let his hair get like that!" Peggy nodded then looked at Howard, "She has a point." Howard thought for a minute, "Maybe they put his brain in a blender?" Rebecca looked sick, "Please stop." Howard did, there were only a few things Howard was afraid of, and one of them was an angry Barnes.

3 years later

Rebecca had just had her second child, Myla, and she was already worrying. Her son, James, was a tiny terror she hoped that he didn't rub off on Myla. James had skin a little darker than Rebecca's, he had Williams nose and eyes, everything else about his completion looked closer to Rebecca. Kyla had very dark skin, she also had curly brown hair like her mother, she had her grandfather's eyes, and had Rebecca's jawline. Rebecca felt bad that none of them would ever meet their Aunts and Uncles since both Rebecca and William's family did not agree with the pairing. Rebecca felt especially bad that the one Uncle who would love to meet the kids couldn't be there. She and William had bought a small three bedrooms one bathroom house, because of the new family edition. All in all, Rebecca couldn't wait for the adventures to come with her family.

12 Years Later

Peggy had brought Rebecca to a diner to talk. "I and Stark have started something, called S.H.I.E.L.D. it's basically the S. S. R. but private would you like to join us. Rebecca nodded furiously, "Of course, I've been meaning to get out of the S. S. R. and I'm sure anything you're founding has to be worth it." Peggy laughed, "So what do you say we go and hand in our letters of resignation." Rebecca got up from the table excited to have a new beginning.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------"Seriously though Stark, why haven't you found someone yet. You're almost 43, times running out," said Peggy. "Look not all of us want to get married and have kids super young like Ms. I'm Fine over there," retorted Howard. "What do you mean young? I was 29 when I had James, and 32 when I had Mayla," said Rebecca. "The point still stands and I'm in a relationship now and it's going great," states Howard. "What's her name?" asked Peggy. "Maria, speak of the devil, I have a date with her. Nice talking to you ladies." Rebecca scoffed, "Let's hope this one isn't insane."

5 Years Later

"Top of the class aye?" asked Rebecca. Mayla blushed, "Yeah which means that I can choose any job I desire." Rebecca smiled, "What do you want to do then?" Mayla looked down, "Well I already applied for a job at S.H.I.E.L.D. and they hired me so I guess that." Rebecca was a little confused as to why her daughter would go behind her back on this one. "I just didn't want people thinking I got the job because of Aunt Peggy. I'll be working in the science division so I don't want people thinking I'm just dumb and spoiled." Rebecca laughed, "No one will think that you graduated top of your class from college when you're 19."

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That same year Anthony Stark was born, Howard was nervous. He was worried that Tony would turn out like him, Peggy worried the same thing. Rebecca tried to tell Howard that Maria was a good lady, she probably toned down the Stark genes in that kid.

21 Years Later

William had come to pick Rebecca up from work. That was when something strange happened William noticed something Peggy didn't. "Hey why have these guys neer finished their mission?" asked William. Howard went to get their files, "Maybe they forgot to check in?" Rebecca shook her head, "But all of them admit to not completing the mission. And they have outrageous reasons as to why. Who believed these guys?" Peggy went to the back of the file room and took out a few more, "They were all signed by these men, we don't have any records on them until the year 1965." William spoke up, "Maybe they are in on something together, like a rival agency type deal." Howard scoffed, "There is no way SHIELD could be infiltrated." Rebecca hit him upide the head, "Your arogence will be the end of you, Stark." Peggy shruged, "We'll look into it in the morning. Howard your son is home you should be spending time with him. Rebecca if I am not mistaken you have your grandchildren Kimberly and Scott waiting for you to teach them how to properly use a gun." They all left but none of them knew that this was the last time Howard, Peggy, and Rebecca would be in the same room together.

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They were all invited to the funeral, even if Rebecca wasn't that close to Howard. Peggy and Rebecca sat next to Tony the whole time knowing that he needed someone to be there with him. Peggy and Rebecca were like his Aunts, they were usually at the Stark estate. Rebecca and Howard would be bickering most of the time but Rebecca was still present at the house often when Tony was a child. Everyone was telling Tony about how his father was a great man and how they were sorry that he lost his dad. However Peggy and Rebecca tod him that Howard wasn't perfect and that they were sorry he had to lose his parents but they never tried to tell him what to feel or how to think about it.

18 Years Later

Rebecca had grown old and now had great-grandchildren, but she still worked at SHIELD. She didn't work in the field anymore though, she was a therapist of sorts. One day they sat her down with a young lady with bright red hair and told Rebecca to make the girl safe to be around. They were then left alone to talk and to help this girl through whatever was going on with her."My name is Rebecca Barnes Proctor, and you are?""Natasha Romanoff.""What would you like me to call you?""...Natasha.""Well then Natasha let's get started. Why are you here?""I worked for the KGB a kind man named Clint Barton dragged me here and they told me to sit through this until I was stable enough to go into the field.""I used to be a SHIELD Agent you know, I was here when this place was first built. Now I work here, helping people like you.""...Who is that a picture of on your desk?""That was my brother, he died in the war.""I'm sorry.""It's okay he's been gone for a long time. Anyway why would people think you aren't stable?""I was a Russian Spy, they just want to make sure I'm on their side.""Do you promise not to betray us?""I wouldn't dream of it. I can't go to a prison cell, again.""Great then I will tell themyou are stable as long as you come help me watch over my great grandchildren every Thursday.""I will Mrs. Proctor.""Oh please, call me Rebecca.""Thanks Rebecca."

1 Year Later

"You seem quiet today Natasha is something wrong?""It's nothing I just got out of the Hospital that's all.""What were you there for?""A man with a metal arm shot someone through me.""So I see you've met the Winter Soldier.""The Winter who?"The Winter Soldier, he's an assassin.""Why haven't I heard of him?""He's like a ghost no one can track him and every file we have of himis erased gone. You see this scar he gave me it."Natasha looked at the scar, "Looks like it hurt." Rebecca sighed, "It did for a long time, but what's done is done. Be careful Natasha." Natasha smiled, "I always am."8 Years Later"Rebecca!" called Natasha, "I brought some company for you!" Rebecca smiled, "I'm in the kitchen." She was trying to complete the crossword when she saw Natasha. "Hello, dear I'mso glad you found time to visit me." Natasha looked at the other visitors, "Guys this is Rebecca, she's a few years younger than Steve. And Rebecca this is Sam-" Rebecca inturpterd her, "Stevie! Why haven't you visited me since you came back from the ice?" Steve looked dumbstruck, "I thought you would be dead or you wouldn't remember me." Rebecca wacked him upside the head, "That was easier to do when you where shorter but this will have to do. How dare you think me dead! And I'm not that old, this brain's still ticking!"

Bucky was behind the wall he didn't really know who this lady was and he wasn't sure she would be happy to have a murderer in her house. He noticed something on her left arm then, a scar going down it. Bucky remembered that, he did it to the young women who was trying to have dinner with her boyfriend, then he tried to kill her. Bucky stepped out of the shadows to say he was sorry for hurting her all those years ago when the women hugged him. She started saying, "Jamie, I knew you were alive! Everyone said that you were dead but I knew deep down that you were alive!" Natasha smiled, that was the first time Bucky had ever seen her smile. "As I was about to say, this is Rebecca Barnes Proctor," said Natasha. When the name was said Bucky started to remember her, he would call her Rikki. Bucky hugged her back, "Long time no see Rikki." Rebecca looked at Bucky's arm, "I know what you did and I forgive you."

1 Year Later

Rebecca died peacefully in her sleep a few months after seeing Bucky again. Evryone said that since she saw him her heart had been ready to go, knowing that he was alive. Others said that she missed her friends and loved ones. Whichever you choose to belive just remember that Rebecca Barnes lived an amazing life.

[landonkirbyappreciation]

Jumping off the ask about people hating Landon for no reason, did you see that insane Instagram post where someone said Landon was awful cause he spent an episode trying to fly instead of helping the Saltzmans get out of the prison world? This is why I think these people watch their own version of the show cause not only was he actually trying to help Hope (helping her study, getting her food) but he also got purposefully dragged away from that situation by Kai. Not to mention when Josie went dark Landon willingly died for them so Lizzie could live and Hope could go into Josie's mind to save her. Its just ridiculous! And in season three Josie didn't even care he was dead and she only helped Hope save him after Hope manipulated her into it, despite the fact Josie and Landon dated and should still have some sort of relationship (but that's more on the writers inconsistent writing for the relationships IMO).

I didn’t see that particular post, but I did see people talking about that back during season 2, and yesss literally everything you said! And I mean, I think people also refer to 2x11 when it comes to that. But in that episode as well, Landon was trying to help. And it wasn’t for the whole episode, it was at the beginning. He knew Hope was trying to get the ascendant so he was trying to fly because he wanted to activate more powers so he could be of more help. And I’ll admit that I thought it was a bit random for him to be trying to fly, and the fact that he happened to unlock those powers by the end of the episode felt kinda forced. But that was more of a writing thing than a character thing. The writers wanted him to get flying powers and that’s how they decided to go about it. But the main point is that Landon was trying to do something so that he could be more helpful. And once Pothos showed up, he spent the episode trying to deal with him while Hope dealt with the ascendant. And he was the one who ended up killing Pothos and saving Hope in the end. And in 2x13, he was trying to figure out how to fly at the very beginning of the episode, that’s it. And he had also been doing it in the night because he couldn’t sleep. Hope was asleep, and it’s not like he could do anything with the ascendant anyway, only Hope could since he can’t do magic. So he was trying to make progress on figuring out his flying abilities until Hope was awake. And then, just like you said, he was still helping Hope and supporting her and bringing her food, etc. But yep, Kai used Dorian to drag Landon away, and the reason he went with Dorian was because he thought he would be helping with the ascendant situation. So those people focusing on a few instances when he was trying to fly while ignoring the fact that he was still doing what he could to help throughout those episodes shows once again that they pay no attention to the good Landon does, they just take whatever they can to twist into something bad. You’re right, they really just watch their own version of the show.

And exactly! They also completely ignore the fact that Landon died for Lizzie because of Josie going dark. And like you said, he did it willingly. And he’s done so much for everyone at the school, and what does he get in return? Literally no one except Hope cared that he was “dead” in season 3. So true, Josie didn’t even care. I think it was the episode after Hope felt she had to accept that Landon was really “dead” and while she was grieving, Josie was happily going off to her first day at the high school, no mention at all of Landon. And right? It took a whole lot of convincing for Hope to get Josie to help her save him. And yeah, exactly, like Josie was sobbing when Landon broke up with her, and she had always been protective of him when they were dating too, yet not even a year goes by and she couldn’t care less when he “dies”? True, they had both wanted to be friends in 2x09, and even though they didn’t really show them interacting much after that episode, I figured there was still a friendship there? But I guess not, at least not for Josie. And I agree, a lot of it is just inconsistent writing. But they sure were consistent about how little everyone (except Hope) cared about Landon throughout all of season 3. It was as if the writers wanted to destroy any sort of “friendships” Landon might’ve had with the other characters. I thought it was very strange and incredibly sad and disappointing.

[handonhaven]

Even since 3x08 came out I've been seeing that the twins deserve a better friend than Hope. Since she almost got them killed because she was so desperate to save Landon. Okay I'm not saying either side that situation was okay in anyway. But I would side more with Hope because she didn't know that would happen and she even felt bad for it. I just want to know how that one situation erases everything she's ever done for them and erases they way the treat her(I had hope for their friendship back in season 2 and now that's just gone). Also I like to think a big part of why Hope was so desperate was because she felt like she couldn't trust them. I mean MG was lying to her for weeks. With some of the comments Lizzie made it, she made it seem like Hopes feelings didn't matter or wasn't important. And Joise just up and abandoned her after she sent into Josie's mind to save her. And when Hope went Josie for help, she cared more about the fact Finch was mad at her and that she didn't have Lizzie okay to help(like Lizzie is her parent and can tell her what she can and can't do). Then she did about helping her friend who's been hurting for weeks or helping her other friend who was stuck in the prison world. So I wouldn't blame Hope if at some point she stops trusting her "friends". So I'm just really wondering if people are choosing not to see how the twins treat Hope because they're their favorites.

I totally agree! Yeah, I really do think that the main reason people are saying that is because the twins are their faves. Because when you look at the show overall, it’s Hope who deserves better friends. And yeah, I’m on Hope’s side with the whole 3x08 situation too. Not that I’m saying it’s okay for the twins’ lives to be risked or for them to be infected with dark magic, I just think that Hope’s actions were more understandable. For me, looking at the circumstances and what Hope had been going through and what she was feeling, her intentions, and her remorse after, are huge. (Especially in contrast with Lizzie’s motivations for some of her actions, like siding with MG because of her feelings for him, plus her lack of remorse, etc.) And people don’t seem to care about that, just about Hope’s actions, without considering the reasons behind them. While also giving Lizzie and Josie a pass for all they’ve done. But yeah, Hope didn’t know that dark magic would be involved. And in the scene, you can see that she believed they could make it if they just pushed through. And once they all started getting infected was when she realized how bad it was and she apologized.

But another thing that I’ve wondered is why everyone seems to think Lizzie and Josie would’ve died. I get that it was a possibility, but just how likely was it? Because wasn’t that same dark magic inside Josie when she went dark? She had taken in all that dark magic from the sandclock on her own and survived, so unless the magic had grown... But even then, Hope also has experience with dark magic when she had the Hollow inside her, which was the darkest, most powerful magic, and she was able to survive it for a while. It was killing her, but it didn’t happen immediately, they were able to get it out of her before it did. And the magic from the ascendant would have been split between Hope and Lizzie, and later Josie (which was why she stepped in in the first place, so less of it would go into Lizzie) so I’m not sure if it would’ve been enough to kill them? And sorry to go off on a tangent, I just have also wondered if another reason Hope maybe thought they could survive is because of their experiences with dark magic in the past.

But anyway, yep, Hope does that one thing and suddenly everyone forgets, or doesn’t care about, all that she’s done for the twins since the show started, and the way the twins’ have treated her continues to be excused. And honestly, I feel the same way about their friendships. I had hope they were all gonna become good friends. Maybe even be the Elena, Bonnie, and Caroline of the show, but I don’t have hope for that anymore either. They hardly act like friends at all imo, and definitely not close ones.

And yes, exactly, that’s a very good point. I don’t see how anyone can blame Hope for how she was feeling after how she had been treated, and it does make sense that it would make her more desperate. I mean, trying to save someone you love who has been trapped alone with monsters in another dimension is reason enough to be desperate. But then if you had been lied to, treated like your feelings were irrelevant, and been abandoned when you most needed help, that would just make the situation tons worse. And what I also find so sad is that Hope still seemed to think they would help her, or at least that Lizzie would. And after all Hope’s done for them, you’d think they would. And some of them were willing to help, but you could see how betrayed Hope looked when Lizzie made her decision, and when that was her last chance? After everything she had been through, what did people expect? And yeah, I thought that was interesting about Josie as well. Like, she’s been able to, as Hope’s subconscious would say, “run away from her problems.” She’s been able to be at the high school and try to start fresh and do what’s best for her, all while Hope and Landon have been suffering. And then when Hope asks for help, she’s more concerned about her crush and Lizzie’s approval? I’m glad that she was eventually willing to help, but that was still pretty unbelievable.

But yeah, I wouldn’t be surprised if Hope stops trusting them either. That would be more realistic, but I doubt it will happen if it hasn’t already tbh. I think it was Danielle who had said there would be tension between Hope and her friends, but that lasted for like, not even a couple episodes? Because then Hope was the one who had to resolve things in 3x09, while she received no apology for what the twins have done for many episodes. The way they’ve treated her still wasn’t addressed, and I don’t think it ever will be. It feels like Hope is expected to be perfect while everyone else can do whatever they want (except Landon, he’s gotta be perfect too). Because yep, like you said, the twins are their favorites. And Hope is just there to be the “hero” and the friend who is always there for everyone, so she’s gotta be flawless I guess, and not do anything that might involve her not putting everyone else above herself and Landon. So yeah, it’s... frustrating, to say the least.