#forgot to post this one here last night oops

[largerfries]

Sanji week day 6: Future

[sexybabystevie]

this is to ONE PERSON and one person ONLY. if you're confused, it's not you!

[checkeredflagggs]

Glazed and Confused

Pairing: Lando Norris x Potter!Youtuber!reader

Summary: when lando fails to make a simple mug, fans direct him towards your YouTube channel

a/n: I took 1 hr long class on pottery and quit. Don’t like the feel of it, have mostly forgot literally everything about it so…🤷🏻‍♀️

a/n 2: I really struggled to get lando’s voice down and don’t really think I did. Oops 😬 will work on that for next time (also plz ignore that changing of the handles. I try to keep them accurate but again I’m not on those social media platforms so…)

a/n 3: I tried to make sure that this reader was never gendered or given a race — there’s one photo near the end that depicts 2 white smaller hands but I think that is the only time. Please let me know how I did, if you could

Pottery Made Easy has posted

potterymadeeasy

liked by user1, user2, and 2316 others

pottermadeeasy: my newest video (mugs and bowls, pt 2) is now up! In it I show you ways to add a little flourish and decorations to the pieces you made from part 1!

view all comments

user1: thank you your majesty! Easy to understand and so so easy to follow!! (unlike my professor 🙄😬)

user2: right? If they either stopped mumbling or spoke up…

user1: might be asking too much of someone born in the 1800s 😭🙄

user2: unfortunately

user3: god your work is so gorgeous. Do you sell anything?

potterynadeeasy: occasionally! I’m based in Monaco rn and a friend owns a shop and sometimes they let me use a shelf or 2

user4: ohh! I’m in France. Plz plz plz make an announcement when you will next have some ready! I’d love to own a piece

potterynadeeasy: of course lovely 😊 vague plans are to have some ready in the next week or 2!

user4: seriously?!? Marking the calendar right now!

user3: you have no idea how jealous I am right now…

potterynadeeasy: dm me! I might be able to ship it to you depending on where you are!

user3: faints bless you

user5: landonorris here! They might be able to help you

user6: be so for real right now. It’ll take a miracle to help landonorris

user7: I hate to be a negative nancy but…yeah. That latest stream was bad bad landonorris

user8: I dont even know…that clay flew… landonorris

user9: would hate to be his cleaner…

lnupdates

liked by user5, user6, user7, and 1,897,455 others

lnupdates: some of our favorite moments from Lando’s latest stream where he was attempting to make a ceramic mug…bowl? It was certainly an interesting one to watch

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user5: interesting is one way to put it. Tragic is another

user6: no but really…that was. I legit have no words

user7: he needs to watch potterymadeeasy! I love their videos

user8: oh? I haven’t heard of them

user7: they’re a Monaco based potter that has a lot of simple how to videos!

user8: just watched one of them! And god their voice…🥵

user7: oh my god right?!?

user5: but are they gonna be enough to help lando?

user7: well they certainly couldn’t make it any worse tbh

user9: you got this lando! Pottery isn’t something easy to pick up - you just gotta keep trying!

user10: yeah! There was definitely some improvement by the end

Twitter

Private DMs

landonorris

liked by oscarpiastri, charles_leclerc, maxverstappen1, and 2,790,469 others

landonorris: progress! these ones were mostly standing. I’m not done yet though - catch me tomorrow night giving it another go

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user11: those looked good! Most definitely an improvement!

user12: he’s almost there! It’s literally just the little things now

user13: oh how far we’ve come! In less then a year he’s gone from flying clay to something that could generously be called a bowl

user14: and an “artistic” vase!

oscarpiastri: definitely better then last time

landonorris: mate…

oscarpiastri: you don’t pay your cleaner enough

landonorris: mate!! get out of my comments

charles_leclerc: keep trying! Maybe one day you’ll get there

landonorris: yeah say goodbye to your Christmas present

charles_leclerc: 👎🏻

alex_albon: will be there! And will definitely be recording - gotta have proof 😂

landonorris: is it national bully lando day here or something?

user15: yes

user16: yes

oscarpiastri: yes

charles_leclerc: yes 👍🏻

georgerussell63: yes

alex_albon: yes!!

maxverstappen1: yes

danielricciardo: yes!

carlossainz55: yes!

landonorris: you freaking muppets!

user17: ok but am I the only one who noticed he kept looking to the side and like beaming?

user18: no but I thought I was going insane? Like he was so soft?

user17: yeah! definitely getting the feeling he wasn’t the only one there. Just who are you looking at?

user18: dare we say little lando norris has a partner now?

landonorris

liked by potterymadeeasy, oscarpiastri, carlossainz55, and 2,723,944 others

landonorris: haha! I did kt! A mug a vase and a bowl!! On to the next step - glazing! And you muppets didn’t think I could do it

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user19: woohoo! Congrats lando! Those look so so good!

user20: and those glazes are gonna be fire when they’re done. I use the same brand and colors he did and they turn out AMAZING

user19: ok don’t be shy drop the names plz

potterymadeeasy: those look great!

landonorris: thank you! Had a great teacher 😉

user21: ariana (potterymadeeasy) what are you doing here?

user22: thoughts are being thunk

user23: unthunk those thoughts right now

user22: sorry…thots are being thunk rn

user23: nurse she’s out again!

user21: really? Under my comment thread?

user24: I’ve connected the dots.

user25: you’ve connected shit

user24: no I’ve connected them

user25: god get a life

charles_leclerc: congrats!

carlossainz55: it only took a few months…

alex_albon: a couple of different throwing wheels

georgerussell63: and 3 different cleaning companies

landonorris: I’m gonna run you all over with my car

mclaren: legally this is a joke

landonorris

liked by potterymadeeasy, danielricciardo, carlossainz55, and 2,922,713 others

landonorris: first round of my ceramics are currently cooking in the kiln. Starting a new batch and stretching my creative skills

view all comments

user26: holy shit those look INCREDIBLE

user27: I’m so shocked! I just started watching the old streams so like in the course of a day he went from wet clay lumps to these masterpieces

user28: I’m so so proud of him - I’m currently trying to get into pottery and ceramics and watching him keep at it is so inspiring

user26: user28 you can do it! Persistence is key

oscarpiastri: man thinks he’s Picasso now…but for real congrats lando. Those look good! And functional too

landonorris: I’m only gonna give you the lumpy ones actually

oscarpiastri: I’m good thanks

landonorris: 🙃

oscarpiastri: honestly proud of you. You’ve come a long way

landonorris: thanks mate!

oscarpiastri: I’m also glad you can stop calling me crying about your latest fuck up

landonorris: you muppet!

danielricciardo: too soon to call dibs on that dragonfly mug?

landonorris: after the way you continuously kept laughing at me?

danielricciardo: in encouragement?

landonorris: 😑

danielricciardo: 🥹🧡?

landonorris: fine 🙄

user29: ok yeah good job on those designs and whatever but are we gonna mention those HEART MUGS?!

landonorris: 😂🧡😉

user29: get back here and answer some questions! What? Does? That? Mean?

landonorris: 🏃🏻‍♂️💨

user29: SIR!

maxverstappen1: i see you’re finished making my present but really? Matching heart mugs?

landonorris: not actually for you!

maxverstappen1: heart❤️ been broke💔🤕 so many times⏰ i don’t know❌🤷‍♀️ what to believe 🍃🙏

landonorris: …who are you and where is max?

maxverstappen1: I thought what we had was special

landonorris: not my favorite relationship anymore! Sorry 🧡

maxverstappen1: 💔

potterymadeeasy: those look good!

landonorris: I had a good teacher 🧡

potterymadeeasy: flatterer

landonorris: always 😉

User22: !!!

User23: shut up shut up shut up

landonorris

liked by yourpriv, oscarpiastri, maxverstappen1, and 3,123,321 others

landonorris: kiln unveiling and some upcoming projects!

listen. when I randomly decided that I wanted to learn how to make ceramic dishes, it was mostly because I wanted to make something with my own 2 hands — and when I wasn’t immediately good at it, I decided that I wouldn’t stop until I was.

Its been a long couple of months with a lot of struggles but I can finally say that I’m proud of how far I’ve come. It hasn’t been easy but the journey and the process has been fun and i genuinely can’t wait to see what comes next!

view all comments

user30: I’m? Crying? 😭

user31: omg same!!! To see how far he’s come and to hear that he’s finally proud of himself too…

user32: we’re excited for you too!

user33: excited? For what? Some more mediocre “Art” by some mediocre man?

user32: go fuck yourself. And get out of my comments. And off lando’s page

used34: user33 how about you go get some sun and maybe shove some kindness up yours! 🖕

oscarpiastri: seriously, congratulations. Those look incredible

landonorris: thanks mate! I do appreciate your support

oscarpiastri: and my cupboards appreciate your work

user34: 🩵🩵 ahhh he’s giving away his pieces

alex_albon: it’s been a fun ride watching you!

landonorris: thanks i think

alex_albon: no problem!

alex_albon: and could you send me the name of your newest cleaning crew? They most be ungodly good

landonorris: and there it is… cleaningcrew

alex_albon: anyway i could get a series of mugs inspired by albon_pets?

landonorris: I’ll need a lot of pretty good pictures

alex_albon: on it 🫡

landonorris: in fact I might need to visit in person

albon_pets: yay! We love ❤️ getting visitors

user35: UMMM?!? That 5th photo?!?

user36: IS THIS A SOFT LAUNCH? DOES LITTLE LANDO NORRIS FINALLY HAVE A PARTNER AGAIN?!?

landonorris: 🫢🤫

user36: YOU CANT KEEP GETTJNG AWAY WITH THIS

landonorris: 😂🏃🏻‍♂️💨

yourpriv: my love, I’m so proud of you! Putting yourself out there in the world to learn something new is never easy but you have done it with amazing persistence and talent.

landopriv: babe… you know I couldn’t do it without you

yourpriv: oh I have no doubt you would have gotten here on your own

landopriv: no. No i don’t think I would have. I’m a fast guy and I’m used to fast results. When I reached out to you, it was a last resort last string. If it didn’t work out with your help, I was honestly going to quit. You pushed me to get better, to stick with it till I made it.

yourpriv: 🥹🥹🥹

landopriv: I’m serious. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me — i love you 🧡

yourpriv: 🥹🥰🧡 I love you too hun

maxverstappen1: can’t lie — it was a fun ride watching you fail but I also can’t wait to see what you make next

landonorris: …thanks for your support 😑🙄😅

maxverstappen1: you know it!

landonorris

liked by yourpriv, charles_leclerc, maxverstappen1, and 2,997,245 others

tagged: yourpriv, potterymadeeasy

landonorris: no time for a soft launch. Thank you honey for teaching me pottery and for designing such a bomb ass helmet!

comments have been limited on this post

potterymadeeasy: Lando! We had a plan!

landonorris: 🤷🏻‍♂️

landonorris: love ya!

potterymadeeasy:…love you too!

[geminitay-daily]

Oops, forgot to post this last night! Here’s another witch gem, I really enjoyed making this one!

[129]

[knavesflames]

Hello! Can I be 🌹anon. Also can you write a smut fic where arlecchino ties up her girlfriend for being a brat. But like no slut or whore stuff. Arlecchino is secretly soft for her lover please 🙏 also arlecchino absolutely teases her girlfriend

Of course! Welcome, 🌹 anon. :]

I do have a theory that Arlecchino is soft for her lover, too. When I was writing this, I forgot about the teasing part, oops :0 but I absolutely agree, see my last post, for example (cheeky promo)

Anyway, here you go! Hope you enjoy. Feel free to drop into box more often :]

Word count: 1k

Contents: bratty reader, soft arlecchino, orgasm denial

Mdni, nsft utc

Arlecchino treats you like a princess. Always, no matter the occasion. When you’re sad, when you’re so happy you’re giddy and won’t stop talking. When you’re being a brat to purposely rile her up. Like now, for example. When, for the last week, she’s been really busy with Fatui work (cleaning up after the grunts who can’t do anything), you’ve been pestering her. By pestering her, I mean, flashing her under your dress, wearing her favourite lingerie set while she knows she can’t do anything about it while she’s in her office. And if you stand outside of her door once you’ve left, you can hear her soft grunting as she gets herself off to the thought of you. Though, you and her both know she’d much rather fuck you instead of herself.

It all comes to a head one night as you clean up after dinner. You’re purposely wearing HER shirt, the buttons done up wrong on purpose, and you’re letting it hang off of your shoulder so she clearly sees the lacy crimson bra strap. Something snaps within her and she loses it. You feel Arlecchino come up behind you, grabbing your waist and spinning you to face her, trapping you between the kitchen counter and her body. Her voice is a low, almost dangerous whisper. “What do you think you’re doing, doll? Being bratty all week. What are you trying to achieve, hm?”

You giggle with a bite of your lip, looking up at her. She’s considerably taller, even without her heels, and both of you have always enjoyed that. Her arm comes up, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear before her fingers slowly wrap around your throat. She’s trying to look menacing, but her touch is gentle, and her thumb is even stroking your neck with such care, like you’d break in seconds if she squeezed.

“You’re so lovely, why do you insist on being such a brat? A punishment is in need, don’t you think? I think you need to learn.” She’s always been so soft with you, you’ve noticed. Even when her voice is so deep and quiet, it sounds like she’s about to murder someone, her touch is so loving. Even when you’re being a brat and getting on her last nerve. Her hands wrap around you and she lifts you up. You cooperate, wrapping your legs around her as she carries you to the bedroom. Arlecchino lowers you onto the bed with ease, and she has to firmly pry your hands off of her.

She lets you keep her shirt on. You look cute, she thinks, even though you’ve put it on on purpose. Arlecchino is a busy woman, even now, in the evening. She works late into the night before collapsing into bed, her arm wrapping around you as she inhales your scent. So, despite wanting to love you for hours on end and give you what you deserve, she has to compromise. She’s never been one to deny you, has she?

Arlecchino’s lips plant themselves against yours before working their way to your jaw, then your neck. She kisses along your throat, enjoying the moving bob of it when you swallow. Meanwhile, her hands travel along your body, sliding under the shirt she has worn so often (she has noticed you’ve put your perfume on it. She will not wash her shirt.), cupping your chest, worshipping it, almost, before her hands travel downwards. She keeps your lingerie on, not really caring to remove it when she herself is so desperate to see you moan for her. Her hands move under the waistband, finding your clit expertly. She rubs small, tight circles, and god, does she love the way you let out a shaky breath of pleasure. Her lips move around your chest, leaving small bites and hickeys only she will see, but they move to your own lips again, kissing you, her tongue swiping against your bottom lip for entrance. When you grant it, her tongue caresses yours, and she swallows the guttural sound you make when two of her digits push into your soaked cunt. She assaults the spot inside of you that makes you come undone so quickly, over and over again. Curling her fingers relentlessly, stroking your walls as they clench around her.

“Close, are we?” She murmurs, a quiet chuckle leaving her lips as she continues her assault, not once stopping. “Cum for me then, pretty girl. My good girl, aren’t you? Just a little bratty, need to learn, don’t you?”

You take the opportunity, though you should have known better. This is a punishment, she did say that at the beginning. You know how her punishments go. Painful? No. Cruel? Sometimes. Loving? Always. You chase your own pleasure with your hips, your arms wrapped around her to keep her in place. You get right to the edge, and she knows it too, the way your moans become higher pitched and more desperate. Just as you’re there, hitting the peak, her fingers slide out of you, leaving you clenching around nothing. A strangled whine escapes the back of your throat, your hips bucking in an attempt to get her back. Instead, she feigns nonchalance. “Oh, it seems my fingers have slipped. A shame, yes?”

She says it with such a straight face, it leaves you speechless with your mouth open. She stares at you with a blank face, but her eyes are full of softness. Leaning over, Arlecchino kisses your cheek. “I must leave. There is lots to do, isn’t there? I never seem to catch a break with this project Stuzha, always working into the night.”

She walks out of your shared house before you can even protest. You lay there, breathing heavily, debating whether to finish yourself off or not. Before you can even think, the phone on your bedside pings, and contains a singular message from the person you hold so close to your heart, that reads:

“Do not touch yourself. I will know. When I come home, you will get your release. Keep being a brat, and you will not. I love you, chérie.”

[elysiaheaven]

𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬 𝐉𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐥𝐲- 𝐀𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐱 𝐟.𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫!

Words: 3500!

Genre: Fluff

Reader: Female!

Summary: You see Aventurine! Your crush a little too close with some lady! He invites you on a date with a bribe!

Note:It was one of my best oneshots in wattpad! So I thought why not post it here!

You can't deny that Aventurine is one handsome and charismatic man. He's the center of attention whenever he's around. Whether it's on the job, in those fancy parties, or even at the casino playing cards, everyone's eyeing on him.

His natural charm draws eyes everywhere. When he smiles, he captures hearts, including yours. You can't help but feel a little jealous when you see him with other women. But you also can't deny the twinkle in his eyes whenever he looks at you.

You were ready to confess to him that day.

But when you arrived to the cafe, you found him already having lunch with another woman.

Aventurine sat with his arm around her; she wore a huge smile on her gorgeous face as he whispered something in her ear. They were too distracted in deep conversation when they didn't even notice your presence. She laughed at his joke, her teeth bright and bright red lips shining.

You couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy when you saw her sitting next to him, her hand playfully resting on his.

You wanted to confront them and ask who she was, but your voice died in your throat when you noticed them sharing their desserts. They were so close, you could see the light brush of his fingers when he cut a piece out of that cream tart for her, and her leaning forward to eat out of his hands.

The woman must be lucky, you thought, the way Aventurine is making her laugh. And the way she's eating out of his hands. If you were her, that would be you.

The two of them were so engrossed in the dessert they didn't notice how you stayed frozen at the entrance, watching the two of them. How could he give his attention to such a beautiful woman? Why wouldn't he notice you? Why didn't he take you out to eat instead? Why did he prefer spending the lunch with her?

As the seconds ticked, one question raced through your mind: Why would he treat her better than you?

But your disappointment was cut short when he turned his head to notice you at the entrance. And the sudden smile he flashed when he saw you, his arm pulling the other woman away from him.

Was she really his gambling partner? You watched how they both laughed as she shook her head in denial.

"This is... she's here to... she's just..." he began, stuttering, searching for the right word to describe her presence to you.

"My... my gambling sister partner from the casino last night when I won big," he continued, a chuckle escaping his mouth. "But I'm sure my sister partner would not mind letting her brother have a word with his coworker."

He led the woman away, still laughing as she protested in mock disappointment that she'd be let go without receiving a kiss goodbye from her partner in crime.

But when she did leave, he came back to you, his eyes glued on yours.

"I hope you didn't think I was having lunch with a woman." He gave you a sheepish grin. When he noticed the twinge of jealousy on your face, he grew more anxious.

"You must think I went out on a date with her," he said in a low voice, stepping closer to you. "I swear that wasn't the case, I was only telling her about the big win last night."

It was so obvious he was so eager, even excited, to spend lunch with you. He couldn't stop grinning as he led you outside, holding your hand so tightly it almost squeezed one of your fingers. So you decided to play a harmless prank on him.

"We should eat at..." you said before pausing to make him lean down toward you so you could whisper your suggestion. But instead, you let go of his hands and flashed a smug smile. "Oops, I forgot, I've got to go home early."

He stood paralyzed, his face scrunched up as he tried to register what just happened. "Wait, where are you going?" he called out, his purple eyes narrowing. But you just waved goodbye as a smirk formed on your lips. "See you later."

As you left, his mouth opened and shut. The grin on his face quickly turned into a frown. He let a curse escape his lips, but you were already gone.

What kind of a cruel joke was this? Why would you agree to have lunch with me, only to ditch me in the last minute? What was the point?

The man was left so utterly confused.

Ratio will help him!Ratio just sighed and told he's stupid and left.

It was quite clear what Ratio was hinting at and for a moment, Aventurine thought the other man might have been right. Perhaps you were only playing with him. But he couldn't wrap his head around the thought of you teasing him like that.

As he sat back in his chair, he thought about what to do. After a while, he decided it would be best to confront you directly and get to the bottom of all this.

Aventurine opened his phone and sent you a message: You free tonight?

The phone vibrated once again. You could just feel his exasperation from the few words he sent.

And why not?

His question was blunt and direct, his eyes glued to the screen, waiting for you to answer. You took a quick glance around to make sure no one could watch as you replied.

Aventurine would never admit it to another soul, but your refusal did affect him a little. He wasn't used to people not giving in to his charm. But instead of becoming upset, he decided to take a different approach. If he couldn't have you on his arms through sweet words and convincing flattery, he would appeal to you through material gain.

And so he typed another reply: *How about I offer you 50% of my win, last night. It comes to two million credits. But you have to go on the date with me.*

Your hand quickly flew to your mouth. Two million credits seemed to good to pass up. Your thoughts were immediately flooded with the things you could buy if you accepted the offer. You'd be so rich!

With a flick of your finger, you clicked 'accept' on the screen. Your reply was quick as you typed in: Deal.

As Aventurine saw the notification popped up on his screen, a flicker of disappointment spread across his eyes before he quickly masked it. His heart was sinking as he realized you were the one using him right now.

He was prepared to win you over with sweet words and his charm, but all the attraction he built up vanished so quickly, when you accepted the deal. Your reply was not what he expected at all, and he felt rejected, even used by you.

Now that you accepted the deal, you knew he would ask about the date, and to be honest, you were eager to know if he really would give you two million credits.

But as you continued reading the conversation, you noticed his last message said: *"Let's go to the casino to celebrate our little agreement."*

You smirked as your fingers typed your reply quickly. Sure. Let's go

As the night at the casino unfolded, you noticed Aventurine stealing glances at you between hands. His usually confident demeanor seemed a bit flustered, and you couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that you had that effect on him.

You were dressed to the nines, and it was evident that you caught his attention. The way he stumbled over his words when complimenting your attire only added to your amusement.

"Wow, you look... stunning," he managed to say, his eyes lingering on you a moment longer than necessary before returning to his cards. "I mean, not that you don't always look good, but tonight, you're... extra stunning."

You couldn't help but chuckle at his flustered attempt at a compliment. "Why, thank you, Aventurine," you replied with a smirk, enjoying the slight discomfort evident in his demeanor.

Throughout the game, he continued to steal glances at you, and each time you caught his eye, he quickly averted his gaze, a faint blush creeping up his cheeks.

But despite his flustered state, Aventurine remained focused on the game, determined to win big once again. And as the night wore on, it became increasingly clear that luck was on his side.

"There's a star shell hairpin...You always have a hard time with your hair. Since it falls down.

With each winning hand, his confidence grew, and soon enough, he found himself raking in the chips. And true to his word, when the night came to an end, he handed you your share of the winnings without hesitation.

As you counted the credits in disbelief, Aventurine flashed you a charming smile. "Looks like it's your lucky night too," he said, his tone teasing yet genuine. 

"Thanks for the lovely night! Y/n..I will transfer the 2 million credits to your account today."

As you and Aventurine were about to leave the casino, you decided it was time to come clean about the real reason behind your acceptance of his offer. Taking a deep breath, you turned to him and began to explain.

"Aventurine, about the two million credits... I didn't really want them," you admitted, your voice softening with sincerity. "I was just... upset about you spending time with that lady, and I wanted to play a little prank on you. It was all just a joke."

For a moment, you saw something flicker in Aventurine's eyes, a glimmer of hope perhaps, before it vanished just as quickly as it appeared. He managed to muster a smile in response to your confession, but before either of you could say anything more, a man suddenly approached your table.

"Hey there, Aventurine!" the man exclaimed, clapping him on the back with familiarity. "Fancy a game of poker, old friend? I've been itching for a rematch since last time."

Aventurine glanced at you briefly, as if silently asking for your approval, before nodding to the man. "Sure, why not?" he replied casually, though you could sense a hint of apprehension in his tone.

As the game commenced, you made a move to leave, but the man grabbed your arm, preventing you from going anywhere. "Hold on there, sweetheart," he said with a smirk, his grip tightening slightly. "You wouldn't want to miss out on the fun, would you? Besides, Aventurine here owes me a rematch, and I could use a little extra motivation."

You felt a surge of panic rise within you as you tried to pull away from the man's grasp, but he held on firmly, his gaze challenging you to defy him. Glancing over at Aventurine, you could see the concern etched on his face, but he was preoccupied with the game, unaware of the situation unfolding before him.

Desperate to escape, you pleaded with the man to let you go, but he only laughed in response, tightening his grip even further. It seemed you were trapped, at the mercy of a man who had no intention of letting you leave without a fight.

As the tension in the room escalated, Aventurine couldn't help but notice the uncomfortable situation you were in. Despite his focus on the game, he could sense your distress, and a protective instinct surged within him.

With a calm demeanor, Aventurine leaned back in his chair, his eyes locking onto the man who held you captive. His voice was low and steady, but there was an underlying edge to it that sent shivers down the man's spine.

"Now, now, let's not ruin the evening with unnecessary theatrics," Aventurine said, his tone deceptively casual. "I believe the lady made it clear she wishes to leave. I suggest you release her at once."

The man hesitated for a moment, sizing up Aventurine with uncertainty. Despite his attempt to maintain a façade of confidence, he couldn't ignore the unmistakable aura of intimidation radiating from Aventurine.

But instead of backing down, the man let out a scoff, tightening his grip on your arm even further. "And who are you to tell me what to do?" he retorted, his voice laced with arrogance.

Aventurine's eyes flashed with a dangerous glint, and a cold smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Let's just say I'm someone you don't want to cross," he replied, his voice dripping with menace.

With a sudden surge of strength, Aventurine rose from his seat, towering over the man with an imposing presence. His every movement was calculated, radiating an air of authority that left no room for defiance.

"Release her," Aventurine commanded, his voice echoing through the room with an undeniable forcefulness.

For a moment, the man hesitated, his bravado faltering in the face of Aventurine's unwavering determination. And then, with a reluctant sigh, he finally released his grip on your arm, allowing you to step away from him.

You moved to stand beside Aventurine, he placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder, his gaze never leaving the man who had dared to challenge him. With a final warning glare, Aventurine made it clear that any further interference would not be tolerated.

You couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude towards Aventurine for coming to your rescue. Despite his playful demeanor, you had seen a glimpse of the fierce protectiveness that lay beneath the surface—a side of him that only added to his undeniable allure.

As the tension eased, the man's demeanor shifted from defiance to desperation. With a heavy sigh, he sank back into his chair, his eyes filled with a mixture of anger and resignation.

"You don't understand," he muttered, his voice tinged with bitterness. "It's the IPC—they ruined my life. Took everything I had, all because of some stupid tax dispute."

Aventurine raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "IPC? Tax dispute?" he echoed, exchanging a puzzled glance with you.

The man nodded, his fists clenched in frustration. "Yeah, that's right. And you," he said, turning his gaze towards Aventurine, "you were the one who led the investigation against me. You and your damn team of enforcers."

Aventurine's expression hardened, his jaw tightening with realization. "So that's what this is about," he murmured, a hint of regret flashing in his eyes.

But before Aventurine could respond, the man continued, his voice laced with bitterness. "You think you can just waltz in and take everything from me? Well, I won't stand for it. I'll make sure you and your precious team pay for what you did to me."

Aventurine's gaze narrowed, his patience wearing thin. "Listen, I understand you're upset, but taking it out on innocent people won't solve anything," he said, his tone firm yet empathetic.

But the man shook his head, his resolve unwavering. "I don't care," he spat, his voice tinged with defiance. "I'll do whatever it takes to get my revenge, even if it means destroying you and your little empire."

A tense silence descended upon the room as the gravity of the man's words hung in the air. Aventurine exchanged a meaningful glance with you, silently conveying his determination to put an end to this vendetta before it escalated any further.

With a sigh, Aventurine rose from his seat, his posture exuding an air of quiet authority. "I suggest you reconsider your actions," he said, his voice carrying a steely edge. "Because if you continue down this path, you'll only end up hurting yourself in the end."

And with that, Aventurine turned on his heel and began to make his way towards the exit, leaving the man to ponder his words in silence. As you followed closely behind him, you couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for Aventurine's unwavering resolve in the face of adversity—a trait that only served to deepen your admiration for him.

As you followed Aventurine towards the exit, you couldn't shake off the tension that lingered in the air. But instead of letting fear consume you, you decided to adopt a more lighthearted approach to the situation.

"Hey, Aventurine," you said, matching his stride with a playful grin. "You know what? I have a feeling you're going to win big today. Consider me your lucky charm."

Aventurine glanced at you, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Is that so?" he replied, amusement dancing in his eyes. "Well, I certainly could use a bit of luck after today's events."

With your playful banter lightening the mood, the tension seemed to dissipate, replaced by a sense of camaraderie between you and Aventurine. And as you stepped out into the cool night air, you couldn't help but feel a surge of optimism wash over you.

As you and Aventurine made your way out of the casino, a sudden commotion erupted behind you. Turning around, you saw the man who had confronted you earlier, his face contorted with rage as he lunged towards Aventurine with a wild swing.

Reacting quickly, you sprang into action, your instincts taking over as you delivered a swift, well-aimed kick to the man's midsection. The force of your blow sent him staggering backwards, his eyes widening in shock before he collapsed to the ground, unconscious.

Aventurine turned to you, a mixture of surprise and gratitude reflected in his eyes. "Wow, that was... impressive," he said, his voice tinged with admiration.

You shrugged modestly, a sense of satisfaction coursing through you at having protected Aventurine from harm. "Just doing what needed to be done," you replied, your tone casual despite the adrenaline still coursing through your veins.

"I reported this guy to the IPC..They will take care!"

After that, There was a small trip to the bar..Since you didn't drink..you just watched Aventurine, who drank just 2 shots and became overly drunken already.

"Aventurine, Let's go."

"You are such a goddess???..You are the first to deny the money..I wanted to give and somehow.. I'm happy..that you aren't the person who is gonna just stab me in the back! You are my first after Ratio for sure!"

"Let's go somewhere outside....you need fresh air." Your voice was normal but your heart was bursted with butterflies and flowers, as an entire garden grew in your chest.

You guys were walking and spotted a nice spot to gaze over the stars...Looking up the stars dotting the night sky, You excitedly popped open another can of soda for yourself.

"Cheers to myself! For kicking the man!"

"Don't drink too much."

"It's just one can..You are the one who drank a lot."

"We have a exception tonight, Since you are here.. I'm safe from the dangers..So I can let my guard down a little."

Your face was bright red and Aventurine looked at you, caressed your cheek and let out a sigh.

"What's wrong?"

"I'm...happy..you feel safe around me..." A year almost came from your eyes.

"Silly girl.." As Aventurine was about to caress your face..You spoke up.

"So, you have given me a gift. I will give you a gift too."

"What gift?"

You carefully placed your hand on the hairpin he gave you.

"Exchanging a few words..I realised what kind of a guy you are..You are just too-hmph!!"Aventurine closed your mouth with a small candy..You coughed and he started to laugh.

Suddenly, Aventurine must have not expected such a sudden move fell over before he could react. he caught himself with one hand, While he hold tightly to me by the other.

You looked up at his startled eyes, with your body pressed on top of his and your hands placed against his chest. He seemed to be flushed from drinking, and you couldn't resist blowing a breath on his face.

"You.."

"No more talking, just listen to me! I like the gift you gave me. I liked the time I spent at the casino with you. I also...like that you said I'm your first after Ratio...Since you thought Ratio was one of the guys who understood you but didn't like you. I don't care about your money..I was jealous..You always say.. I'm the best co-worker but seeing you with that lady made me angry."

Hearing you say this, Aventurine's body tensed up and his grip tightened around your arms.But his reaction brought up a different kind of emotion in me.

"However, there's still a lot about you. I don't know.."

"..What do you wanna know?"

"I-I'm not finished!"-You domineeringly placed your hand over his mouth and slowly spoke:"I want to see more sides of you. when you're eating, when you're sleeping,when you're happy, when you're sad, when you put too much perfume that smells... awfully good. All of it I want to see every side of you."

Aventurine didn't speak, he just stayed as he was patiently waiting for you to contuine.Seeing him all quiet, your domineeringly attitude turned into caution.

"Is that okay?"

He giggled, looking very satisfied-"Are you done?"

"Yeah"He hugged you and placed his head over your neck, as if it was the most comfortable place in the world.

"Now, it's my turn."-As he said, an icy breeze flew in instantly, sobering him out a bit. he shivered and suddenly became aware of the situation and seeing the awkward pose your mind went blank.

"I.."

"What?

"Let's go.."

You tried to push yourself up, but was held firmly to his chest.-"Nah, princess.."

Your breathings suddenly grew heavier and louder.Your heart was beating like a drum.You swallowed hard and looked timidly at him.He leaned in closer and rubbed his nose against yours, the sudden warmth disintegrating your thoughts.

"All that stuff, you wanted.. it's yours. all of my sides belong to you...and you, as payment are mine.." His voice was low and wispy, it felt sweetly on your ears amidst the fragrance of his perfume.It soothed your every worry and gave a sense of calm. his embrace was just like the ocean enveloping you in a surge of deep love.

Blazing intensity, yet wonderful...

"I will let you know, 

one thing-"He took his fedora and his your faces to make sure, no one sees what he did..-A kiss...

Your first kiss...

"I love you..Miss jealousy.."

[weirdly-specific-but-ok]

Morning News with Asmi 14 Oct '24

OOPS I FORGOT TO MAKE A POST YESTERDAY AND SO I GUESS 13TH OCTOBER WILL REMAIN A MYSTERY FOREVER. AAAAAA. ANYWAY HI IT'S TECHNICALLY MORNING OF 15TH TODAY BUT IT'S TOO EARLY TO CARE IT'S 14TH IN TEXAS MMKAY.

1. HURRICANE UPDATE: PEOPLE ARE NOW SHIPPING THE TWO HURRICANES. THERE'S FANART BASED ON THE VAGUE FACE SHAPES THEY MADE?? EVERYTHING IS FINE.

2. I MANAGED TO SURVIVE A VERY SMALL BIT OF THE SPICIEST CHIP IN THE WORLD EVEN THOUGH MY FRIEND WHO LIKES SPICY FOOD ATE THE SAME SIZE TEENY BIT.

3. THE BIRD, REDDIT, FLEW BACK HOME TO ITS HUMANS ON SUNDAY?? ITS HUMANS WERE THE CONSTRUCTION WORKERS FOR THE PLOT NEXT DOOR? SO... THE BIRD JUST WANTED A GODDAMN NIGHT AWAY AS A HOLIDAY WHILE ITS HUMANS WERE SEARCHING FRANTICALLY FOR IT?? IM

4. MY FRIEND INTRODUCED ALIEN STAGE TO ME LAST NIGHT (YEAH THREE OF US JUST RANDOMLY HAD A SLEEPOVER ON A MONDAY EVENING ART SCHOOL IS FINE WE'RE FINE) AND AAAAAAAAAAAAARGH IVAN MY BELOVED AAAAAH SUA AAAAA MIZI (FOR OUR PRINTMAKING CLASS, THE FRIEND--THE SAME ONE WHO THOUGHT TUMBLR WAS DEAD--MADE FANART OF THEM) OH NAAAAAAY CLEMATISSS AAAA

5. NORTH KOREA IS ABOUT TO ATTACK SOUTH KOREA APPARENTLY?

6. SOMEONE NAMED DAVID ALABA HAD AN INJURY WHICH MIGHT AFFECT HIS CHANCES AS REAL MADRID. WHAT THE FUCK IS REAL MADRID? FOOTBALL? CAR RACING? BASKETBALL? YAHTZEE?

7. I FINALLY LEARNED HOW TO PLAY UNO AND I WON THE FIRST PROPER GAME I PLAYED AND IT WAS OF UNO FLIP IM A GENIUS

AND NOW FOR THE WEATHER AND I SWEAR I WILL NOT FORGET ANY CONTINENTS THIS TIME

1. Australia: Hot and stinky. Just like me. I didn't shower yesterday.

2. Asia: Wet. Water. Wet wet sploosh. But not the ao3 way.

3. North America: Hurricane gay porn season I guess.

4. South America: Cloudy with a chance of moqueca.

5. Antarctica: ...still green. I wonder why my brain said piss-coloured. Green isn't piss. I mean. Piss isn't green. It's too early for this.

6. Europe: COZ IT'S TOO COLD FOR YOU HERE AND NOW SO LET ME HOLD BOTH YOUR HANDS IN THE HOLES OF MY SWEATER

7. Africa: The sun peeks out uwu from clouds

AND THE ANSWERS TO SATURDAYS CROSSWORD:

1. Baby food that adults can be allergic to: Milk. Well. It's not an allergy, it's an intolerance. Which involves different biological processes and not being able to digest it rather than the body reacting to an allergen. Shhhh. I never claimed to be smart.

2. Makes shitty copper: El-Nair (thanks @arkytiorlecter for that wild ride)

3. A condition that causes strong reactions to panic and pain at certain sounds: Misophonia (ily mad thanks for educating me @falling-raine)

4. A decaying virtual room of insanity orgies from the 10's: Tumblr

5. With ____, anything is possible: BARBIE!

IM TOO LAZY TO MAKE A CROSSWORD SO INSTEAD HAVE THE LESBIANS I PAINTED FOR MY PRINT-MAKING (MY OC'S)

AND BANGALORE PALACE WHICH I VISITED ON SUNDAY:

I LOVE YOU FORGIVE ME FOR MY NEGLIGENCE HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY/NIGHT MAGGOTS OF MINE

[sourcherryandsprinkles]

Chad defending you from a guy who touched his girl at halloween party. I love protective boyfriend chad!

This was in my drafts and I forgot to post it...oops

my taglists are here + you can send requests here at any time

—

Chad wasn’t the jealous type. He was protective and liked to show others that you were together in every small way possible — wearing his Blackmore hoodie on game days, having subtle matching things like shirts or jewelry, setting a cute selfie of you two as his phone background, resting his hand on a part of your body in casual intimacy —, but he never shouted at Ethan for giving you a friendly hug or sent any threatening glares at Trevor, the guy that worked with you at the library.

‘’You’re staying with me all night tonight. I’m not letting you out of my sight,’’ Chad declared as you walked to the frat house the Halloween party was at, struggling to take his eyes off you in your cowgirl costume.

Getting matching costumes was cringy according to Mindy, but you and Chad decided to ignore her. It was cute and reminded people that you were together. Quinn had helped you with your costume, letting you borrow a shirt from her closet to match with your cow print skirt and cowboy boots.

‘’I could say the same about you. You’re not even wearing a shirt! You’re flashing those abs and muscles to everyone.’’ You ran your hand over his toned chest, catching yourself smiling knowing it was all yours to touch and kiss and lick. ‘’Just last week at your game, I caught three girls gawking at you. I was wearing your jersey with your damn name on it. Was it not clear enough that you were already taken?’’

‘’Y/N’s right,’’ Tara chimed, catching up behind you in her pirate costume. ‘’Those college girls are worse than high school ones. They don’t care if a guy has a girlfriend, they’ll still flirt and try to get in their pants.’’

‘’I’m not stupid enough to fall for their shit though,’’ Chad reassured you, wrapping an arm around you and pulling you in.

You hugged him back, feeling lucky to have a faithful man.

Half an hour after arriving, Chad finally agreed to let you wander around. Although it sounded like that, you didn’t need his permission. You just wanted Chad to understand that you would be alright on your own.

‘’Don't accept drinks from anyone and don’t let your cup out of your sight. And don’t drink the punch — you never know what’s in it. So many horrible college stories start with a spiked drink at a party.’’

‘’Yes, dad,’’ you replied, pecking his lips before disappearing among the other party-ers in search of Tara. Maybe she would be down to have some shots with you?

Just two, you told yourself as Tara poured vodka into small shot glasses. Two turned into three, and then you got enrolled into a game of beer-pong with some guys from your film class. You were kicking their asses, throwing the ball skillfully into the cups.

A few meters away, Chad was looking at you proudly. His girl was bruising these guys' masculinity and it was hilarious to see their embarrassed faces. One of them had a very poor aim and knocked a cup down, causing it to spill on the floor. Amateurs.

‘’Come on, Tara, you can do it!’’ you cheered, encouraging the petite brunette.

The shots you had downed earlier were messing with her concentration, but she was determined to get the ball in the last cup.

Unfortunately, she missed.

She pouted and the guys played their turn, getting only one ball. Tara offered to take the drink and you placed yourself in position, but just as you were about to throw the ball, the fake cop put his hand on the small of your back, dangerously close to your ass, and you completely froze. He whispered something in your ear, but you didn’t hear.

All you heard was Chad’s voice when he pulled the guy off you and shoved him against the wall, snapping you out of your frozen state.

On your left, Tara gasped, not expecting such violence from her friend. ‘’Chad!’’

‘’Don’t ever touch my girl like that,’’ he hissed at the guy, the altercation getting a few people’s attention. ‘’Got it?’’

The fake cop laughed, feeling cocky. ‘’Oh, come on! We’re just having fun.’’ He glanced at you and you shifted uncomfortably in your cowgirl costume, still feeling the ghost of the guy’s hand on your ass. His mouth curled into a smirk. ‘’With a perfect little ass like hers, I couldn’t help myse—’’

Utterly disgusted, Chad didn’t let him finish his sentence — he couldn’t — and shoved his fist against the fake cop’s chest to shut him up…which only reeled him more. He shoved Chad back by the shoulders.

As much as you appreciated Chad taking your defense, the situation was escalating and unless you wanted the night to end with a broken nose — for the other guy —, you needed to stop the fight.

You stepped in and grabbed Chad’s arm before he could shove the guy another time, but before you could say anything the fake cop shoved Chad back harder, causing him to stumble back into you. He steadied himself on his feet easily enough and you grabbed the table to stop you from falling. 

Tara rushed to your side, asking if you were okay. You nodded.

''Chad, stop!'' you called to him, grabbing his arm with a stronger grip. ''This idiot is not worth your time.'' His jaw was clenched when he finally glanced at you. ''He's just looking for a fight, let's go.''

—

Scream taglist: @misfityanii @beautybyfire @iluvscream191 @mariposa555 @bella7866 @o638 @lulubelle14 @luvvtxinityy @frasersgf  @Eddiefrickenmunson @jasperr-the-friendly-ghost @ghostf4cee @thesebitcheslovesosadotcom @wandaswigglywoos @xjennyx2 @jennasslut @thatonesblog  @mikaelsonsstuff @icarly23 @tcddszn  @bt.oliana  @skyesthebomb @a1mzcruml3y @red1culous @iluurmom @popeheywardssecretgf

All and more taglist: @spiokybirdstarfish @kenqki @liidiaaag @hawkegfs  @gillybear17  @areaderinlove @acornacreacure @black-rose-29 @fudge13 @cece05 @rosie-cameron @Caxddce @laylasbunbunny @gemofthenight @beautyb1ade  @hi-bored-as-fcuk-rn  @lovelyy-moonlight @mellabella101 @vxnity713  @marzipaanz  @bisexualgirlsblog @queenofslytherin889

[thewulf]

Big Blue World || Joel Miller

Request: Can you do a Joel Miller x Franks Younger sister reader?? I haven't seen any fics with her. Maybe she's a bright ray of sunshine to Joel's grumpiness?... Read rest here

A/N: Wasn't planning on posting this first but inspiration struck and you've gotta take it! Hope you guys enjoy.

Pairing: Joel Miller x Y/N

Word Count: 9.4k+ (Another long one!)

TW: Talk of suicide, general TLOU warnings

One – Seven Years Post Outbreak: The Dinner

The first time you laid eyes on him was only a few years after you and Frank moved in with Bill. It was simple really. Both you and Frank fell into Bill’s trap ditch. You managed to break your ankle on the fall down. Panicked and sure death was in your immanent future you burst out into tears. You weren’t made for this kind of life. This impossibly hard life. You, Frank, and a group of nine others were venturing to the Boston QZ after your home was demolished. You’d been walking for what felt like months, you could really never be too sure.

It didn’t make sense how you of all people were one of the last surviving in the group. Often getting by with just the skin of your teeth your only saving grace being that you were quick. You could run for your life. That, and you had Frank. He was eight years older and the best big brother you could have ever dreamed of. Even pre-outbreak the two of you were thick as thieves plotting to take over the world. He saved your life more times than you could count. You hated it. Being weak and shit. You wanted to be better for Frank. You had to survive with him. He couldn’t do it alone either.

So, when you fell into Bill’s hole and screeched you were just thankful whatever it was would take you both out. Neither having to live in this sick world alone. To your pleasant surprise Bill not only let you stay but he knew how to fix your ankle properly, without having pain in the future. You were sure Bill and Frank fell in love that first night. You didn’t know how that all that worked but you were so happy that your brother found his happiness, his purpose.

Life slowly turned back to a weird fucked up new normal for the three of you. Bill and Frank fell madly in love with each other within a few months. They never excluded you though, making you feel as though you were meant to be here with them. You found it easy to pretend you were back in life pre-outbreak. Finding hobbies around town you got really into knitting and gardening. You just wanted to be seen as useful to Bill. He was kind enough to let you stay so you wanted, needed, to bring something to the table.

You were interrupted from your solace hearing the men arguing at the front of the house. So much for weeding. Being far too curious for your own good you listened in on the two of them as they bickered.

“Oh, fuck you!” Frank yelled rather dramatically.

“Hey! Would you stop?” You knew Bill was rolling his eyes at your brother’s antics. Whatever the hell he could be up to now.

“Do I ask for things ever? Why am I even saying that? This is for me. This is for the three of us!” Your brother yelled. You inched closer dying to know what this blow out was about. The two men could be so damn dramatic when they wanted to be.

“Who cares what they look like?” Bill continued. What the fuck were they on about? You could only wonder as you sat behind the tree near the front listening in.

“I do! Our home isn’t just our house. It’s everything around us!” Frank yelled again throwing his arms up in the air. Oh, he was on the beautification subject again. Frank wanted everything pretty, but Bill never let him. Resource management was key.

“Give me a fuckin’ break.” Bill returned your over dramatic brothers cries. Oops. You knew that was a mistake. Bill always tried to argue but Frank always won.

“Oh, I’m sorry, I forgot. I live in this world. You live in a psycho bunker where 9/11 was an inside job, and the government are all Nazi’s.” Your older brother seemed to calm down even though you knew he was downright mocking Bill.

“The government are all Nazi’s!” He boomed. You couldn’t help but to let out a silent laugh. You agreed with him of course. Frank just knew how to push his buttons.

“Well, yeah, now! But not then!” Frank defended, “I am asking for some paint and some gasoline for the lawn mower. That’s all. I’ll do everything else myself.”

“It is not man-“

Frank interrupted him clearly agitated. You were getting a full-on show now. You hated to admit it, but you loved when they had blow outs. It was your entertainment for the day, “If you say resource management so help me, I will run through one of your trip wires.”

“Okay, okay. Just tell me why.” Bill seemed to reason. Boo. You knew as soon as it calmed down the show was over. It was fun while it lasted. Standing slowly you were going to make your way back to the garden only to hear Frank continue.

“Paying attention to things. It’s how we show love.” You listened in again. What the hell was he talking about now? It sounded like bullshit, “This is my street too. Just let me love it the way I want to. And I’m fixing up some of the shops.”

Ohh, it just got juicy again.

“Woah, woah, woah.”

Frank rolled his eyes, “Not the stupid ones. Just the wine shop, and the furniture store. And the clothing boutique.”

“The boutique? Are we hosting formal garden patties now?”

“No!” Frank couldn’t help but to roll his eyes at the man. That was so like him, “But we are going to have friends.”

“Excuse me.”

“We’re going to make friends and we will invite them to visit.” Oh, hell yeah, this was getting good now. You could use some friends anyway. You prayed Frank won this battle with Bill.

“We don’t have friends Frank. We will never have friends. Because there are no friends to be had. Other than Y/N.” You grinned hearing that last bit thrown in. You loved that he always made sure to include you. You grew on him that’s for sure.

“Well, I’ve actually been talking to a nice woman on the radio.”

“You what?!” He screamed. Oh hell, Frank was in trouble now and he knew it. You watched as he darted to the front door ignoring Bill.

Bill turned right to you shaking his head. Busted, “I know you heard that whole thing. You’re not sneaky.”

You shrugged, “Who said I was trying to be?”

“You and your brother are going to fucking kill me.” He groaned making his way in to talk to Frank.

You only smiled as he departed. Bill had also grown on you.

Next thing you knew you were meeting the nice woman named Tess and her friend Joel. You couldn’t but to take your eyes off the man. He wasn’t like anything you’ve come across in Baltimore and now here. He was so freaking handsome. You hadn’t a clue how to handle it. It’d been years since you talked to another human let alone a beautiful man.

At dinner you made sure to look at anything but him, keeping your eyes locked on either Tess or Frank. Luckily Bill was his usual grumpy self after losing to Frank and kept his gun out and trained on the two strangers. You were so thankful he kept their attention instead of you.

“Can you not, please?” Frank sighed looking over to his boyfriend. You bit you lip trying to stifle the smile that threatening to spill over. They were always bickering. Like an old married couple. They couldn’t even hold it together in front of the guests.

“I’m the same way.” You heard Joel speak for the first time. He seemed to let Tess take the lead most of the time. Thankful you weren’t standing. You were sure your knees would be wobbly. He had that smooth southern drawl with a thick husky bite that’d draw just about anybody in. Fuck. You couldn’t have possibly been this horny to be thinking such things of a literal stranger. You had to reign yourself in quick.

“Oh, you’re a paranoid schizophrenic too?” Frank quickly chided in. You only leaned back rolling your eyes earning a quick glance from the handsome stranger.

“I’m not schizophrenic.” Bill sat there looking between everyone. That killed the whole mood. Great, just wonderful. The first real people you meet, and you’ve all ruined the chances of them coming back already.

Tess cleared her throat interrupting the silence, “Well, can I just say, gun aside, which I get,” She laughed but continued, “how nice this is to have a civilized meal in such a beautiful place? It’s been so long. I mean, I just, uh, I wanna thank you. Even if we don’t end up working together. I really needed this.”

“We are working together.” Frank cheers confidently. You only leaned forward smiling, “We are.” He looked at Bill who only looked horrifically apprehensive about this whole situation. Frank was pushing him beyond his limits.

Before you knew it Frank and Tess were walking inside giddily talking about something they chatted about on the radio. Leaving only you, Bill, and Joel alone. Great, the three mutes. You leaned back waiting. It wasn’t your place. This was for the big dogs, and you certainly weren’t one of them.

“If my uh, if mine brought strangers into our situation I wouldn’t be too happy either. But of all the people you could’ve found on the radio we’re actually decent people.” You leaned back further letting your mind wander as the two of them talked. You only prayed Bill wouldn’t drive him away completely.

You sighed as they left. Bill drove them out. You stayed a couple of feet behind and watched the two conversations unfold. You gave Tess a wave and smile before she was out. Joel didn’t bother turning around as he waved the group off. Leaving you with only a small frown. They’d be back soon enough. You were sure of it.

Two – Eleven Years Post Outbreak: The Supply Run

That familiar voice that you hadn’t heard in so long came from downstairs. Quickly, you ran down the steps to greet the now acquaintance that you wished would show up more often than he did.

“Joel! Tess!” You jumped down the last step only to be greeted with Joel and Bill, “Wait where’s Tess?” Fear ran through you. Did she get infected? Was she gone already? She was Frank’s only friend outside of here.

“Frank just took her to the boutique.” Bill grumbled sitting down in the chair at the dining table.

You let out the breath you were holding, “Good!” You clapped thankful that the worst hadn’t come over your somewhat friend. If you could use that word, “Maybe she’ll pick out some of the clothes I made.” You grinned knowing you just stocked the store up with your latest sweaters and hats. What else were you supposed to do with your time other than make way too much clothing that the three of you would never go through?

“You make clothes?” Joel asked seemingly interested in the conversation.

You beamed just happy he noticed you. He hardly noticed you before, only briefly talking to you each time they had come back. It seemed they stopped about once a year. Tess always giving Frank a heads up on the radio before the made the trek up north.

You wished you could get Joel to see you. But you were just Frank’s little naïve sister. That’s all you ever seemed to be. Not that you blamed him, he was right after all. You really were just Frank’s naïve little sister having way too much optimism for this cold world.

 You craved any attention Joel gave you. From the second you laid eyes onto him four years prior and every brief interaction each year since you were entranced by him. He was so strong and composed. Something so opposite of you. Someone so sure of himself every time he came around. And Jesus, look at the man. He was so damn attractive it nearly drove you mad. He only seemed to get more handsome each time he and Tess walked through those gates. You thought about him far too often. Far too often for somebody who saw you as Franks little sister.

“I did and do! There should be some that fit you if you want some yourself?” You gave him a hopeful smile. Maybe he’d accept?

Joel looked somewhat impressed? You couldn’t tell. It wasn’t a look you’ve seen from him before, “Yeah?”

“Mhmm.” You grinned, daring to take a step closer, “Bill’s even modeling my latest collection. Classic springtime.” You waited patiently for him to decide. You weren’t sure how to handle yourself if he decided to come with you. You’d literally dreamed of alone time with Joel and here was a chance at it… you didn’t think you were ready.

Bill huffed turning away. Because of course he did. Earning a brilliant scowl from you. Truth be told he held a lot of love for you in his heart too. Your constant reassurance and optimism grew on him over time, not that he’d ever dream of telling you. He wasn’t mushy. He could hardly handle you in your sober state. In your emotional one? He’d for sure go mad.

As if by a miracle Frank and Tess came barging in giggling about who knows what. Saving you from a too awkward encounter with both grumpy men. You couldn’t help but to smile at the Tess and Frank. They would have been friends’ pre-outbreak too. You could just tell. Two souls that connected so effortlessly.

 Joel noticed you watching them. He always noticed. He was always watching you when you weren’t watching him. He couldn’t help it. He was drawn to you, and he was really God damn tired of fighting it. Every time he came, he hoped he wouldn’t run into you. He wanted to but for his sanity’s sake he couldn’t run into you. But you always showed up. With that damn brilliant smile and cheerful greetings. Making him feel way too special. He craved it. He loved it.

“Y/N!” Tess came rushing over to you placing both hands on either of your shoulders, “You made these? These are actually good. They have designs in them and shit. I didn’t really believe Frank when he said you were good at it, but he was right. I’m impressed.”

You shrugged, “Well, when you have all the time in the world.”

That earned a chuckle out of the woman. She seemed so happy and relaxed here. A side Joel rarely saw. A side that was seemingly reserved for you and Frank. It made sense though, both of you were infectious. Both Joel and Tess let their usual stoic guard down around you both.

“Joel. Go now. Y/N will show you.” She ordered. So sure of herself. Something you so deeply admired about the slightly older woman. She lived that life. The rugged one. Yours was so damn peaceful compared to hers. A country club compared to the life she lived.

You nodded towards the door, “Come on, I’ll show you.” Not daring to betray Tess’s orders you nodded for him to hurry up.

He nodded. His mind was made up for him by Tess, “Alright. Lead the way.” He tried to look grumpy. He didn’t know how it was actually paying off though. Because he was way too damn excited to finally be alone with you.

You held the door open waiting for him to join you outside. You led the way a couple of steps in front of him. Tired of the silent walk you had to say something, “How’ve you been holding up Joel?”

He sped up a couple of steps taking that as an invitation to walk beside you. He had no God damn idea of how to act around you. He had a stupid big fat crush on you that Tess, and now Frank, knew about. He was sure that’s why she sent the two of you alone.

It happened slowly for Joel. Initially, he really only did see you as Frank’s little sister. You didn’t do much for him. But over time, over the shortest of visits he slowly started to look forward to seeing you bright shining face. You always greeted him with the happiest of smiles. Like it was the pre-outbreak world, like nothing was wrong. Tess picked up on it over time when he bugged her to visit with supplies. Claiming he needed to see Bill but always brining you up somehow.

Joel knew it was dangerous. Falling for someone in a world like this. Someone like you. You were just too pure for this world. He couldn’t see you outside of these chain link fences. He didn’t want to imagine you trying to survive out there. You didn’t deserve it. You deserved so much more.

“I’m okay. We’re okay. Getting by just fine. Couple supply runs here and there.” His accent came out strong the longer he was away from the QZ. The longer he was able to relax the thicker it came out.

“Good.” You nodded. You too had no idea how to talk to him. Coming from such separate worlds it was like your brain couldn’t fetch the words to converse with him. Which was really bad for you.

“And you?” He offered. He was trying. Something you hadn’t seen from the gruff man. You turned looking at his face as the setting sun seemed to hit all his angles just right. Eyes tracing every feature you soaked everything about him in.

“I’m decent.” You sighed knowing that was a terrible answer. So, you did what you did best and just started talking, “Been busy knitting a store up. Trying some new techniques in the garden I read from a 2001 Farmers Almanac. I think it’s working too. I’ve got a ton of cucumbers. I’ve gotta pickle them or they’ll go bad. Unless you guys want some?” You offered knowing you needed to stop before you babbled far too much. It was either way too much talking or stone-cold silence when it came with you and awkward conversations. And this was incredibly awkward.

He was giving you a different look. A much softer one. One that’s as if he’s seen you for the first time, “We’ll take some. But you’ve gotta pickle the rest. We’ll be back and then I’ll take some pickles. Deal?”

You giggled feeling your cheeks heat up as he kept his eyes locked with yours. You watched as you saw his eyes turn up slightly as small smile formed on his face. You had a feeling this was a very rare occurrence for Joel. Not often finding that smile. And you were right. It was terribly foreign to Joel, but you brought it out. Somehow, some way he felt a little lighter when you were there.

“Deal! We’ll have way too much for us anyway. The garden is getting a bit out of hand, but it keeps me busy.” You stopped pointing towards the building, “Here we are.”

He held his hand out, “Ladies first.”

“Course.” You smiled leading him in, “There should be some stuff over there that you might like. I’ve got some extra stuff in the back if you don’t like any of it.”

He nodded letting himself go and search. You sat back on the countertop that used to contain the cash register.

“You really made these?” You heard him before you saw him.

“The ones without the tags yeah!” You brought your legs up and sat with them crossed beneath you. Simply waiting on him to grab whatever he needed.

Before you knew it, he walked up to you holding a few sweaters and shirts, “Is it alright if I take these?”

You nodded, “Sure. I’ve got plenty more. It only takes a few hours to make these now. I’m afraid I’m going to run out of yarn.”

“I can get you some.” He replied without a hesitation.

“Yeah?”

“Sure. Consider it a trade. Next time I see you I’ll have some. What colors you want?”

You smiled a bright smile to him. You’ve grown so fond over the four years you’ve known each other. But it felt like you’d suddenly broke through to him. Whatever it was you were so thankful. This was a Joel you didn’t know. A Joel you could surely get used to. Even if you only saw him every year or so.

“Pinks and purples. I ran out of those so quick. Didn’t know how much I liked them.”

He nodded, “Pink and purple yarn coming right up.”

“Thank you, Joel.”

He shrugged, “Consider it a trade.”

Three – Fifteen Years Post Outbreak: The Seed Trade

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Looking around to make sure Bill wasn’t going to pop up.

Frank shrugged, “He’s got so many fucking guns he won’t notice a measly 9mm missing.”

You sighed feeling that anxiety rising in your chest, “Fine. Who’s coming for this trade?”

“Joel.”

“Joel?” You sounded surprised. It had only been six months or so since you’d seen him last. Not that you were complaining in the slightest. You’d always welcome him back.

“And Tess.” He smirked, “But I just wanted to see your reaction.”

“Oh, fuck off.” You giggled knowing he was teasing about your crush on Joel.

“They say after six months of crushing on someone it’s love. It’s been what? Eight fucking years of the two of you flirting like mad when he comes around. I think it’s past love at this point.”

“What of it Frank? It’s not like he’s moving in here. It’s not like I’m moving to the Boston QZ.” Rolling your eyes, you leaned onto the chain link fence.

Franked rolled his eyes right back at you, “Why couldn’t he move here?”

“Uhm, because he has his own life with Tess?”

He shrugged, “You know people moved for far less in the pre-outbreak days.”

“Well, we aren’t living in those days, are we? We’re living in fucking reality Frank. He has a life. I have mine.”

“You haven’t even asked.”

“It’s not my place to.” You admitted. Sure, you’d thought of it, but it wasn’t your place to in the slightest. This was Bill’s place after all. The two of you so immersed in the debate back and forth neither of you heard the pair coming up on you both. It wasn’t even like they were being that silent.

“What were you guys talking about?” Tess asked popping out of thin air. Joel stood behind her smirking at the heated conversation between the two siblings. He and Tommy bearing a striking resemblance to the bickering siblings.

“Nothing!” You turned smiling at the pair you’ve grown to love over the years.

“Joel!” Frank said right after you. You turned towards your sibling eyeing him up and down. The nerve on him beyond you at this point. Frank was really just tired of waiting to see you two together. He knew there was nothing going on between Joel and Tess, like you were worried about, but he also knew Joel was apprehensive. As were you.

“And Tess!” You turned towards the two of them again, “Good to see you both so soon.” You smiled brightly towards Joel. Your best smile reserved for your favorite man. That certainly didn’t help your case with Frank though.

“I got you some more colors.” He handed you a duffel bag stuffed full, “Red, purple and blue this time.”

“You’re spoiling me, Joel Miller.” You cheered happily accepting the gift. Tess and Frank could only step back and watch the innocent interaction. For the life of her Tess couldn’t understand how soft Joel got with you. Only with you. Frank too marveled at your nerves with the man. Your usual confident self only seemed to waver in his presence.

“Or” You turned back towards him with wide eyes. Getting ready to tease him, “Is it because you know I’ll make you nice clothing?” You continued on, welcoming the harmless flirting that always seemed to arise between the two of you.

“You caught on quick.” He threw you a rare wink.

You giggled softly, acutely aware of the audience intently listening in behind you, “You’re lucky I adore you both. I’m more than happy. Any requests?” It really was your favorite. Gift giving was your love language to others. It just made you so warm and fuzzy inside to see everybody’s reactions to getting something they love.

Tess coughed, not caring that she was interrupting the moment. She needed some items and if you were offering, she would be taking. She missed the harsh glare from Frank though, “I really could use some new socks.”

You turned towards your friends, “You got it. Stick around long enough today and I go grab you a few pairs?”

She nodded her head quickly, “I honestly could really use them. You mind Joel?”

“As long as Bill doesn’t.”

Frank shook his head quickly, “Not at all! We’ll make sure to have dinner ready for everybody.”

“We wouldn’t want to impose…” Joel began before you bucked up the courage and interrupted him. You wanted him to stay.

“You wouldn’t be at all. Bill and Frank love cooking. Enjoy it.”

Joel nodded folding into your assurance quickly. That’s all he really needed to hear before he agreed to staying.

“Thank God.” Tess grumbled, “I could use some good food too. Joel, we gotta get out here more often.” Tess notes.

“I agree!” You nodded trying not to be too gleeful about the innocent proposition.

“Yes please.” Frank nods. He adores hosting and wants people to come around more often. Especially if those people include Joel. He so desperately wanted to see you happy with him. Even if it meant losing you to the Boston QZ. He knew you’d visit.

Joel let out a rare laugh seeing the group so happy. So fucking carefree. So, unlike the norm. God, he missed the old days. How simple that life really was, “I’m not stopping anyone.”

Tess smiled, “It’s settled then. We’re coming for you more often.”

Your face lit up at the confirmation, “Good. Well come on then.” You flashed your smile towards Joel, “You know where everything is, get comfy.” Beckoning them to come in with your hand you turned back towards Tess, “What color this time? I’ll even make you blue ones if you want!” Your cheeks began hurting from the grin that wouldn’t fall from your face. It warmed your heart that Joel always brought you more yarn, always. Even five years after that conversation with him, he never failed to bring you some.

She shook her head, “Just use some scrap yarn or something, nothing special.”

“You deserve to have a color you want Tess. Something that makes you happy. Plus you know I have a pair in every color ready to go.” Your eyes softened as you really looker her over now. The last five years not being kind on her, on anyone really. Her initial soft features began hardening over time. Wrinkles formed where her scowl always was. The world wasn’t kind to you. But the world was downright cruel to Tess and Joel.

“Anything is fine really…”

You stopped immediately not satisfied with her answer. Joel almost ran you over as he was paying attention too closely to the conversation and not what you were doing, “Well, what’s your favorite color?”

She laughed, “That’s something I haven’t thought of in a while.”

Giving her a sad look these conversations never failed to pull at your heartstrings. You all were unfortunately born into a world that would simply never exist anymore. A world that was thriving. A world that was so fucking foreign it hurt. You were almost jealous of the humans being born in the post-outbreak world. They would never know the luxury of living that old life. This was all they knew. This was their normal. This September will mark the fifteenth year that you were living this new normal. This insanely fucked up normal.

“Mine was pink. But it just doesn’t seem as happy anymore.” You admitted, “I think my new favorite is blue. Sky blue. That’s happiness to me.” You shot her a small smile.

“Why’s that?” She asked as the group started their short walk back to Bill’s house.

You shrugged hoping what you were admit didn’t make you look too soft, “When I get tired of gardening I like to lay down and just look up. Watch the clouds like I did when I was a little kid. Find figures in the clouds. The sky never changes. There’s just something so cathartic about it.”

You didn’t see it because he was walking behind you but a ghost of a smile crossed Joel’s lips. He couldn’t help it. He was so fucking drawn into everything about you. So gentle in a world that wanted to rip you apart at any moment. He, of course, made a note of it. He needed to find sky blue yarn. It wouldn’t be easy now. It started getting difficult to find untouched yarn in the QZ. It was even harder finding it outside. But it never bothered him. The smile alone on your face when he handed you a bag full of yarn was worth all the trouble to get it.

Tess nodded, “I think mines green. Grass green. Tree green.”

“And why’s that?” You asked her the same question, curious as to what she came up with.

“Green means the weather gets better. It just makes life easier.” She let out a small sigh of frustration. A growing frustration of trying to stay alive. It wears down on you far too quickly.

Again, another wave of sadness rushed through your heart. Why were you, of all people in the world, given the chance to live this somewhat normal life in the middle of nowhere? Why wasn’t Joel given the chance? Tess? The longer you lived here relatively unstressed the more guilty you felt through it all. Especially seeing just how much the real world had aged the pair.

“Then green it is. I have a really nice forest green pair I think you’ll like. Did the last pair fit okay?”

She nodded opting not to reply verbally feeling the emotions bubble up from deep within her. Emotions she buried so deep down she wasn’t sure if they’d ever come back up. But your gentleness with her, your determination to break down those walls she put up so high was beginning to crack the walls. How you could be so thoughtful was beyond her greatest comprehension. You had to be selfish in the world. You were the opposite.

“Okay!” You clapped at the group made it back to the house, “I’m going to run to the boutique to grab what I need. See you guys later.”

“Want some company?”

Your stupid heart sped right on up hearing that husky voice from behind you. Biting your cheek, you wanted to hide the smile that was forming automatically. God, you’d dreamed of moments like these. Moments where Joel sought you out instead of you seeking him out. Moments where you knew he liked you. Wanted to be around you.

“I’ll always take your company Joel.” Turning towards him you did not want to see Frank and Tess’s reaction. There was a 100% chance they’d run into the house giggling like little schoolgirls gossiping about the two of you. They turned into middle school girls the second any kind of drama could be sniffed in the air.

You could’ve sworn you saw the slightest hint of a blush dance across the apples of his cheeks.

Giving him a soft smile, you started walking to the boutique with Joel in tow.

“How are you doing Joel?” You asked hoping he’d give you the real answer not the bullshit fluffy stuff you were used to. You always asked him this same question each time he came.

“I’m… tired.” He admitted while running his hand through his grown-out hair.

Looking down to the ground you hid the frown as you kept pace with Joel now, “I can’t even imagine Joel. I’m so sorry... I”

He cut you off by placing a friendly hand on your shoulder. The contact immediately making you freeze up. It’d been too long since you’d been touched by anybody other than your brother or Bill. Your eyes clouded over with unshed tears as you tried to bite back the emotion that suddenly overcame you.

“You don’t need to apologize.” You continued to walk as you racked your brain for anything to say to him, but it seemed to have short circuited.

“I feel guilty.” Not having a clue why you were admitting it to him you blinked a few times hiding your emotions best as you could.

Joel didn’t understand why you would feel that way. He just gave you a curious look, waiting for you to continue. When you didn’t hear his reply you finally bucked up the courage to get another look back at him. His eyes urging for you to elaborate.

“Why me? Why did I get to live this life. This easy, simple life? How did I luck into it? I guess it doesn’t really matter. It’s all ending soon anyway.” You decided to drop the bomb on Joel. Finally feeling like you could tell somebody.

“Why do you say that?”

You sighed finally spitting out what’s been bothering you for the last few months, “I think Frank’s sick.”

“What kinda sick?”

“Not infected. I think it’s like pre-outbreak sick Joel.” You turned away wiping the stupid tears that slipped down your cheek. You were worried. So, fucking worried for your best friend.

Joel still looked confused, “Okay. Why do you think that?”

“He’s tired all the time. Complains to Bill about losing feeling in his hands and feet. He doesn’t remember things like he use to. I don’t know. Maybe I’m looking too much into it, but something just doesn’t feel right.”

Joel frowned trying to think of words to comfort you, but he came up terribly short. He didn’t do this. He couldn’t do this. The last time he had to was when Sarah was alive. An entire lifetime ago.

You continued knowing he hadn’t a clue what to say, “Bill won’t talk to me about it either. Says nothing’s wrong. I don’t know what to do Joel. They can’t just ignore it.

“Do you think there’s medicine? I can try and find something.”

You shook your head, “Don’t think so. Don’t think they had a cure back then. Sure as hell don’t have one now.”

“Well, you don’t know that Y/N.”

“It’s not cancer. It’s in his brain or something. That’s what the books are saying. I don’t know Joel. It just doesn’t feel right.”

He nodded, “Keep an eye on him.”

You stopped in once you reached the store. Quickly you ran in grabbing what you needed before meeting him back on the street to start your walk back to Bill’s house. Both of you walked back in silence, unsure of what to say.

“You shouldn’t feel guilty.” Joel broke the comfortable silence that consumed the walk home.

“Yeah.” You mumbled not really feeling like debating right now.

“Really. You and Frank were meant to find this place. You were meant to do everything here. You’ve been a constant in Tess’s life. My life, for the last eight years? God, how’s it been that long?” Joel smiled thinking back on his times with you,.

You smiled, “Don’t make me feel so old Joel.”

That drew a heavenly laugh out of your favorite guy. Something that came around so rarely that you cherished every second, “You’re still a kid.” Joel didn’t believe that. As cruel as this world was to everyone it still looked so beautiful on you. You hadn’t aged like everyone he knew. A woman who could pass in her twenties easily.

Scoffing you shook your head, “Hardly! I’m seasoned at life.”

“You sure are.” Joel nodded. He smiled as he studied you this time around. He wished and prayed he wouldn’t have fallen for you, but he couldn’t resist. Not with that smile. Not with your kindness. He wished this was easier. There was no easy way to go about it. That’s why neither of you cared to admit your feelings. What good would it really do but complicate things further?

You made it back to the house where you were ambushed by Frank who looked far too happy, “Y/N! They got us strawberry seeds! Your favorite, remember?”

Walking over to him you inspected the seeds. Looking up to Tess you smiled softly to her, “Thank you. I haven’t had a, uh, strawberry in what?” You looked to Frank brushing the tears away from your eyes, “Fifteen years now?”

He nodded with a big happy smile, “Yeah, fifteen years.”

You turned to Joel, “Thank you so much!”

“Sure, we would’ve brought them sooner if I would’ve known you liked them so much.” He admitted. He wasn’t sure how you did that to him. Got him admitting embarrassing things in front of everybody he knew.

“I guess I just forgot about them. Such a luxury I didn’t even think of. They were our mom’s favorite. She found a way to incorporate them in our food almost everyday.”

Frank wrapped you in a hug. He knew just how soft you were. How sad you got when you thought about mom or dad. They just disappeared right out of your life. Dad never made it back from work that day. Mom got infected the second day. Neither of you could kill her so you ran. Ran so far away until you landed in the Baltimore QZ. Until it then was demolished.

Giving him a squeeze to let him know you were alright you pulled yourself away from him, “Thank you both. Really. Now you’ll just have to come back in a few months when they’re grown. We can make some strawberry shortcake.” The gears started turning in your head. There were so many new recipes you guys could use with strawberries now on the menu.

Joel nodded. Tess agreed, “We already agreed to coming around more often anyway. Now it’s just an extra excuse.”

Frank pulled her to the living room to talk about who knows what.

“Alright, I’ve gotta get to work.” You held up the green yarn. Walking over to the chair in the window you got comfortable.

“Want some company?” Your favorite voice broke your concentration.

“You know my answer, Joel Miller.” With some newfound confidence you winked at him as you said so.

Four – Eighteen Years Post Outbreak: The Trip Back to Boston

“No. No, no, no, no, fuck no!” You punched the pillow sitting next to you with all your might. This couldn’t be fucking happening to you. They couldn’t be making you leave. Feeling your heart tip into two you let the tears fall freely. How could your brother do this to you? You knew his health was the reason, but you couldn’t fathom why he wouldn’t let you stay. You’ve been through this whole thing with him. It felt like he was just abandoning you.

“Y/N… you have to.” Frank’s sad face broke you. You didn’t care about his feelings anymore. You broke down completely now letting the loud sobs free.

“Please Frank, please don’t make me go.” Choking on your words you could hardly comprehend why he was saying this. Why he was making you go.

“You can’t be here any longer. You have to go.” He couldn’t look at you not with the look you had on your face.

“Just tell me why Frank! I can help. I can help you both. I’ll do more. If that’s what it is, you know I’ll do more Frank. Please don’t make me go. Please Frank.”

He shook his head letting his own fresh set of tears fall, “I’m dying Y/N. I’ve got a few months, maybe a year left. You can’t be here for that.”

“I’ll die out there.” You shook your head back and forth suddenly terrified of what traveling to Boston actually meant. The real world. The sick world. The world that wanted to kill you.

“Not with Joel. Not with Tess.”

A cry broke from your throat, “Just like that? After all this time? I can be there for you in the end. I can help Bill.”

“Bill’s going to have to move on to and I’m not sure if you fit into that plan.”

“Oh.” You continued to cry. Curling up within yourself you let yourself cry until you couldn’t anymore. Frank didn’t dare try and comfort you. He knew that wasn’t welcomed. So, he sat there. He wasn’t going to leave you. Not yet anyway.

After calming down you finally processed what the this all meant. It meant the end of the road for you and Frank. It meant starting over, completely. You knew it would end sooner or later but it still stung. It didn’t feel like enough time.

Standing suddenly, you caught Frank’s attention who was just sitting there with his head down, “I’m staying in the guest house.”

“Y/N…”

“Night.” You shut the door behind you, loudly.

It was still bright out when you laid down to go to sleep. Joel and Tess would be here in the morning to get you. To take you to your new home. Turning over in your bed you looked out the bedroom window studying your home once more. The flowers that bloomed out front reminded you of all the times you and Frank spent gardening. Making your home beautiful.

No longer would you be able to make trips to the boutique. No longer would you be able to stock it up for your guests. No longer would you get to live in this little fantasy land.  

Woken by a hand on your shoulder you pushed the hand away, annoyed you were woken so abruptly, “Go away Frank.” You mumbled.

“Not Frank.” Fuck. Why was Joel in your room waking you up?

“Oh,” You couldn’t bear to turn towards him. You adored him. Loved him even. But you didn’t want to go like this. Being forced outside your will. It hurt. Crushed you even. You didn’t want to take your anger out on Joel so best to keep your back turned to him. But God, you just wanted to scream. Yesterday you were just living your life as normal, as possible, that you could. Then Frank dropped the bomb and now you were just expected to go, “Sorry, Joel.” Meekly replying to the man, you shed a single tear. That’s the one thing you hated about yourself. How damn emotional you got. You couldn’t bottle it up even if you tried.

“S’fine.” He sighed not sure what to say. What could he say? He knew you didn’t want to go. Frank warned him and Tess once they got there. He knew just how devastated you likely were. Everything you knew was about to vanish. Joel had gone through that a few times. It wasn’t the best feeling. But he always survived. He knew you’d be just fine. And there was that sick twisted thought of happiness that you’d be close to him.

He tried to fight these feelings away. Tried his damn hardest. He knew you couldn’t really love in a world like this. How devastating it always ended. Nobody was ever really that lucky. Joel had loved hard and lost even harder. He swore he’d never let in anybody ever again. Tess was the closest and they were just partners. Nothing more. He loved her but he wasn’t in love with her.

Then you came along. All happy and shit. He swore he’d never love hard again but that promise seemed to crack each time he saw you. You never failed to put a smile on his usual stoic face. He resisted the urges for so long until he couldn’t any longer.

“Can you give me a moment?” You asked hoping he’d take the hint.

He nodded before realizing you were turned away from him, “Right, yeah. I’ll be at Bill’s place.”

“Okay.” You closed your eyes until you heard him close the door. Letting out the shaky breath you were holding. You watched from your window as Joel walked slowly back over to Bill’s place. Seemingly lost in thought.

You put on the fresh set of clothes that you always left over. A simple set of jeans, t-shirt, and a hoodie. Not believing it was really it you forced your legs to walk back over. You had to face the music sooner or later.

“Morning.” You nodded your head at Tess, the first person you saw sitting in the living room.

Giving you a sad smile, she nodded right back to you, “Morning.”

“Y/N.” You heard your brothers voice, “Bill made you a pack. It’s got everything you might need.”

Biting your lip, you took it gratefully. You really couldn’t have done it without either of them, “Thank you.”

“You’ll be okay out there.”

“Sure.”

Joel and Tess sat back watching the painful interaction. Tess nodding towards the door letting Joel know they needed to get out. They both snuck out without you or your brother really noticing. Both too caught up in whatever the hell this was.

“Y/N.”

“Spit it out Frank.”

“I don’t want you to hate me. I’m doing this for you. It’s best for you.” You leaned back into the wall crossing your arms. Choosing your words very wisely. This would be the last time you’d talk with him in this lifetime. You had to do this right. For his sake and yours.

“I don’t hate you. I could never hate you. I love you so fucking much it hurts.” You let a tear fall. Dammit here they came. The waterworks, “I just wish you’d let me be here for you but if you think this is best then I’ll go.”

“It’s best.”

Letting a few more tears slip you nodded your head, “Tell Bill that I love him. I love you, Frank.” You walked over hugging him tightly. Squeezing him so tightly you knew it was hurting him, but he didn’t dare say a word. You were hurt and grieving him even while he was still standing there.

Letting him go you gave him your best smile, “I’ll always love you, Frank.”

“And I’ll always love you. Be safe out there.”

“You know it.” You turned quickly walking towards the door. Shutting it behind you, you took a breath. Why did you have to be born into this world? What good fucking came out of all of this. What was the point?

Walking over to Joel and Tess, you gave them a quick head nod.

“You alright?” Tess asked.

“Yeah, let’s go.”

Joel looked a little too apprehensive seeing your blood shot eyes and rosy cheeks, “You sure?”

“Positive. Please, let’s go.”

“Alright, follow me.” Tess led the way. This was your life now. This was going to be just fine.

The walk back to the QZ was quiet and cold. You didn’t dare complain though. They were simply doing this as friends. Whatever the hell friends were. It only dawned on you as soon as you got close, without incident, that you were an outsider. How in the fuck was that going to work?

“Joel?” You asked one night shortly before you arrived.

“Hmm?” He stayed silent most of the way. Not ever knowing what to say to you. God, he wanted to be a source of comfort, but he hadn’t a clue how to be for you.

“How’s this going to work? I’m an outsider and all.”

He understood your concern, “It’s all taken care of. Tess got some paperwork made up. You’ll live with me for the time being and we’ll find you a job.”

“Cool,” You nodded. Pleasantly surprised that it had been so thought out, “Thanks Joel.”

“Sure.” He had a hard time looking at you. Knowing he’d cave for whatever friendly look you’d be giving his way.

“Thanks for everything Joel. Really. For protecting me and what not.” You mumbled feeling terribly awkward about it all. Even though you didn’t appreciate your life so much anymore it felt good to be looked after. To be wanted and taken care of.

“I’ll always protect you.”

Five – Twenty Years Post Outbreak: The Trip Back to Bill’s

“You don’t have to go in.” Joel stood at the gate blocking the path for you and Ellie.

You shook your head, “I’m okay.”

Ellie rolled her eyes, “Let’s fucking go then.”

Smiling at the girl you turned back towards Joel, “You heard the girl.”

He gave you a skeptical look, “You sure?”

“Yeah, I just won’t go in the house.” You kept your eyes forward, not darling to look at him.

He nodded turning back towards the overgrown town. Ellie walked past you keeping pace with Joel. Bugging him about something. You hung back taking a leisurely stroll through your old home. A place you called home for nearly fourteen years.

The usual green grass had turned a shade of brown without Frank’s attention to detail. The bright yellow flowers had been overgrown with weeds. A tug at your heartstrings knowing the worst had come to Frank. That was expected. His condition going from okay to tragic in a matter of a few months. What you didn’t expect was Bill taking his life too. Bill wouldn’t let this place go to shit. It was his home first.

Too quickly you made it back to the house. Joel looked back at you before he and Ellie went in. You nodded, letting him know it was alright. You made your way to the side of the house where your garden was. You strolled through the raised garden beds that were overgrown with who knows what now. It looked like the place hadn’t been touched in two years. He must’ve done it right after you left. They must’ve decided together. Without you.

Tears sprung to your eyes when you spotted the thriving strawberry patch. Somehow untouched by weeds or the animals around it your once small square of strawberries had grown tenfold. Seemingly thriving in this environment.

Squatting down you picked a ripe one. Turning it over in your hand a few times just thinking about Frank before you ate it. He would’ve loved to share one last one with you.

“To Frank.” You mumbled before taking the last bite, discarding the stem on the floor.

You sat down next to the strawberry patch grabbing a few more before you laid back onto the grass. Letting yourself feel sorry for yourself after everything. Knowing what Frank was going to do. Seeing Tess die in front of your eyes. Realizing Bill also left this world. Everyone you loved and cared for gone in a matter of two years.

Tess’s death hurt you the worst. One moment she was there and the next she wasn’t. So unexpected. You had time to process and grieve your brother’s death. Bills caught you off guard but didn’t surprise you completely.

Looking up to the sky you remembered a long-ago conversation with Tess about favorite colors. Sky Blue. It looked so pretty today. Not a single cloud in the sky. One big blue sky.

“Bill’s gone.” Joel’s voice interrupted your peaceful solace.

Flicking your eyes over to look at him you didn’t see Ellie behind him, “I know.”

“You, okay?” He took a seat next to you.

“Mhmm. I’m fine. Take a strawberry. They’re still good.” You smiled up at him continuing to lay on your back.

He did as you instructed, “They are.”

Giving him a genuine smile, you just felt comforted by his presence. He was the only constant in your life for the last two years. You’d grown far too attached to the man, but could you blame yourself? He was everything to you. You were so terrified that you’d lose him too. It’s all you seemed to be doing in the last two years.

“Get everything you need?”

“Yeah. Battery is charging for another hour or so.”

“Ellie?”

“She checking out the town. I told her about the boutique.”

Sitting up you looked over at him. He was so beautiful. The salt and pepper look throughout his hair only making him more attractive in your eyes. The scar that graced his cheek enhanced everything about him. His hair was at the perfect length where it flicked all over the place. He’d probably start complaining in a few weeks. Then you’d cut it and it’d be far too short, and you had to wait until it was your favorite length again.

“Maybe she’ll grab something.”

He nodded, “Power still works. Grab a shower while you can?” He stood up offering you a hand.

“Sure,” You took his hand in yours. Joel pulled you up gingerly. Always so careful with you, “Thanks Joel. I’m going to the house next door. It should still be stocked up.”

“Need a change of clothes?”

He was always so thoughtful with you. Never skipping a beat, always making you a priority. His way of showing just how much he loved you. And he did. Boy did he love you. He just had a hard time expressing it directly. Showing his love in other ways instead. He initially said no when Frank proposed you coming back with them to Boston. But when he heard his pleas through the radio, he knew what he needed to do.

He was surprised at how well you adapted out there. You knew your strengths, weaknesses. You knew how to be helpful and when to take a step back. You never complained either. Just wore a smile on your face instead. That was how you coped. Smile and walk. You’d be there soon enough. The first trip was the hardest. It got easier after that. Joel wouldn’t let you sneak out with him at first. Too scared you’d get hurt. But Tess eventually convinced him. Then you were off helping them out as you could.

“If you don’t mind? There should be some clothes in my room.”

“You got it.”

You’d known about Frank’s passing. Hoping to come to Bill’s for supplies. Lucky for you it hadn’t been raided, yet. Joel worked on getting the truck ready while you and Ellie showered.

You walked back over to Bill’s standing at the front door. You wanted to go in so bad, but it didn’t feel right. Something tell you that you shouldn’t.

“Hey, you hear me?”

You snapped out of the trance you seemed to be under, “No, sorry Joel, what’s up?”

“Come on, need your help loading up.” He motioned to the garage on the side of the house.

“Yeah, alright.” You jogged over to meet him, “Thanks for the clothes.”

“Mhmm.” He kept his gaze forward.

You really couldn’t take it much longer. The thought of losing yet another person with telling them how you felt just didn’t sit right any longer.

“You know I love you right?” You asked.

“What?” he paused looking taken aback at your sudden admittance.

“I love you, Joel.” You smiled a genuine smile. One that felt so good to do.

“You do?”

“Why do you look so surprised? Of course, I do. You’re everything to me.”

He gave you that brilliant smile that made you weak at the knees, “You love me, huh?”

You slapped his arm, “I love you. How many times are you going to make me say it?” You giggled feeling like he was loosening up. Softening even further as he saw your overexcited state

“I dunno.” He took a step towards you, “It sounds nice.”

“Yeah?” You asked transfixed on his gaze.

“Oh yeah, and you know what?” He asked.

“What’s that?”

“I think I love you too.” It felt strange admitting it out loud, but damn did it feel good. Right.

Your heart started racing, “You think?” Raising your eyebrows, you dared take a step closer to him.

He shook his head a bit upset by his choice of words. Always seeming to mess them up, “I know. I love you, Y/N.””

“I like the sound of that.” You didn’t let your smile fade only bigger. God did I feel good to get it out. You knew what his answer would be. He showed his love in other ways but damn did it feel good to hear.

“Yeah, now come here.”

[chained-sweater]

୨୧ dear diary

— a/n : i said i'd post my fics on here. i kept my word.

— characters : darrel "darry" curtis jr., sodapop "soda" curtis, ponyboy "pony" curtis (mentioned), steve randle (mentioned)

— timeline : several years post-canon

— warnings !! : mild swearing (just one), angst, implied mental health issues, implied suicide

— chapters : 1 / 1

— words : 655

dear diary?

dear journal?

dear future me?

future me?

yeah, that sounds about right. anyways, i don't know why i'm doing this. i mean, i saw ponyboy doing it himself. he told me that writing in a journal helps keep him organized and composed of his thoughts. or something along the lines of that, i'm not sure.

like i said, i'm not sure what provoked me to do this: write in a journal. i normally don't do this. i usually just bury my feelings deep inside until i can no longer hold them in and explode into a mental breakdown. it's just...i don't know..it's...strange. yeah, strange is the best way to put it.

i know i'm supposed to write for an extended period of time, but my hand is cramping already. having bookkeeping as your second job when you already work in construction takes a toll on you. i suppose i could take a break and finish writing later.

see you, stranger.

— darry?

— past you

* * *

future me,

hey, it's me again, your past self. i know i said i'd write again after a small break, but i completely forgot. two months ago. (oops.) i guess that's what happens when you toss things away carelessly into your jungle of a closet.

but...yeah. i guess i have an excuse though. ponyboy left for college a while ago. i miss him, i think. i don't know. the night before he was supposed to leave, we got into an argument. it was our worst. we were screaming at each other so loud steve could hear us all the way from his house. ponyboy had tossed his luggage into his car and said he never wanted to see me again. sodapop was still crying after he left. ran off to his room. i feel bad. neither of us are entirely over it, but soda's getting better. i'm not. i got nightmares about our argument, ponyboy leaving. it got to the point where, by some miracle, the gang scrounged up enough money to send me to therapy. that's why i couldn't write in this. (well, it was mainly because i was stressed at the time and cared less about finding a stupid journal i wrote in a long time ago.)

ah, i got too carried away there. maybe this is good for me—writing down how i feel and getting my thoughts out. it's working, i guess.

i'll write some more another day. let's hope it's not in another two months.

— past you

* * *

i need to keep this out in my line of sight to keep up with my entries. it's been almost a year since i last wrote in this thing. so much for me promising to not have such huge time gaps here, huh?

god, i don't know where to begin. i got out of therapy a few months ago since i was deemed "cured," but the gang thinks otherwise. they know the night terrors haven't gone away, and they definitely noticed that my depression has gotten worse.

my headache is killing me right now. i'll write later.

* * *

i'm fine.

i'm fine, okay? it's been six months since i last wrote in this thing, and i honestly couldn't care less about trying to find a consistant schedule for my entries. i don't care. why do i even bother in the first place? it's just a hobby i was pressured into doing.

well too bad. i'm not writing in this shit anymore.

* * *

...hey.

i know what you're thinking: 'how long has it been since he's last written here?'

well...it's been...a while.

oh, and before you say anything else, this isn't him. it's his brother, soda. now you're probably wondering why i'm the one writing here...the answer is rather simple.

darry killed himself two years ago. stole one of our dad's guns from the attic and shot himself clean through his skull.

...i'm sorry.

— sodapop curtis

୨୧ the end

[ouiouibaguettt]

Love beneath the shirt pt.2

Jana Fernandez x Aria O’Hara (oc)

@liverpoolfan96​ here is the part2!!

warnings: no one

words: +1k

Masterlist - part.1

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ARIA’S POV:

When I messaged Jana, a week after our match, I couldn't remember ever having been so nervous in my life. I was at Lola's house that night with Carmen and Virginia, and I saw that my phone had vibrated. When I looked at it to see what was going on, I had a sudden rush of heat.

@janafernandez3 liked your story @janafernandez3 replied to your story: 😳😳

The story in question was a photo of me lifting weights that the team photographer took. "I think she has a crush on you Ari" Carmen said to me as she appeared behind me. "AHH!" I exclaimed, jumping up with my phone in my hands. "You scared me Carmen never do that again" I said with my hand in my heart after grabbing my phone in midair. "Oops?" she apologized as she sat back down next to Virgina. "Do you think I should ask her out like tomorrow night?" I asked Lola, "I think it would be good for you two to get to know each other a bit more" she said as she thought about it "And you'll be cute together" she added as she pinched my cheeks. "Yes, look at baby America and baby Spain together!" she said a little too excitedly. "Well I'll ask her then" I said with a little nervousness in my voice.

//

It was time for my meeting with Jana, I would be lying if I said I wasn't stressed. I was currently at the meeting point, looking at the latest stories and posts on instagram, when I spotted her. "Hey Jana" I said as I stood up to greet her, "Hi Aria" she said, "Are you ready to go?" I asked "Yes I'm ready, let's go I've been looking forward to this since last night" she admitted as she looked down at the ground, her cheeks flushed "Is that true?" I asked pleasantly surprised, "Of course I was looking forward to it Aria, don't doubt it" she said as she looked at me with a beautiful smile. "Thank you, your smile is very cute too" she told me as she started to walk forward. "I spoke loudly right?" I asked blushing, catching up with her "Yes but it's cute" she said.

//

I don't know how much time has passed since then but I know I don't want it to stop. "Why did you choose to be on loan this season? "she asked, "Honestly, I always looked up to my sister Kelley, growing up, and it was through her that I discovered the sport but the thing is, I'm younger and less experienced than her, so despite the games I play whether they're good or bad I get compared to her, At Gotham FC I wasn't Aria O'Hara, I was Aria, the little sister of the big star Kelley O'Hara, and that played a lot on my mind because I can't talk to my sister about it and that's how I ended up in the club office asking for a loan. "I admitted. "It must have been very complicated, but I'm glad you went on loan here in Spain," she said. "Why Atlético de Madrid anyway? Were there no other clubs? Not that I'm criticizing, I'm just wondering?" she added. "I'm glad I was loaned out here too, I must admit, I've met some very nice people" I confessed. "And I don't really know, I just know that it was a good team and that I could only get better as the season went on" I said. "Great meetings eh? Who are they?" she asked. "Virginia, Lola and Carmen are definitely nice to meet but I was surprised by this beautiful girl from Barcelona" I admitted, "Oh yeah? And what is this girl like off the field?". Hm, I don't know, what are you like off the field?" I asked with a small smile. "I don't know, I'd say, adorable, cute, nice" she said, sticking her tongue out at me. "You forgot beautiful" I admitted.

When I pulled out my phone, I was shocked to see that it was already 00:46. "Should we go? You have practice tomorrow and I don't want your team to arrive in Madrid because you didn't sleep much because of me" I asked, "Yes you're right" she said as she got up from the sand and held out her hand to help me up. "Anyway I loved this evening with you. I can't wait to do it again soon," she admitted, smiling at me, "I also enjoyed the evening with you, Jana. And I can't wait to do it again," I admitted, imitating her smile, "Go on, I think Bruna will be worried if you don't," I added, "Oops, have a good flight home and let me know when you've landed. Good night Linda" she said kissing my cheek before walking in the opposite direction of me. "Good night Jana" I said a little late.

//

"I still can't believe you flew to see a girl" is the first thing Virginia says to me when she sees me at the airport, "Wow, hello to you too how are you?" I say as I hug her. "Oops sorry, how are you? Did your flight go well?" she asked "Yes it did, my flight went well thank you" I said. "And to answer your question, what I can't believe is that it went very well and that she is also looking forward to doing it again soon" I said with great enthusiasm. "I'm glad it went well for you then" she confessed, putting her arm around my shoulders as we left the airport. "Off to the house now," she announced. "I can't wait to get back to my bed and the girls" I admitted between two yawns.

TO jana💙❤️ I'm home safe don't worry.

FROM jana💙❤️ Ok nickel, rest well tonight for your training, good night linda, x

TO jana💙❤️ Thanks, good night to you too Jana x

When I went to bed that night I had never been so happy in my life and I hope it lasts.

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[aly-corner]

@project-isles , I saw your last post about Wing!Freddy and your desire to draw proper design for your Au's. I got ideas, here is a sneak peak of your Wing!au in my style (This particular Goldie's design is living rent free in my head since far too long). I hope you like those design because I will not stop just with this au.

Now, Fear me! Because for each one of those, I plan to draw each Goldie and Freddy, using my imagination, your post and your gacha life's design.

I am doing that for my own enjoyment, so don't feel pressured to answer or like (I just want your opinions). They are just suggestions and ideas for anyone to use. Hope you like it. Have a good day/night.

Oops, I forgot to write the medieval Aga au (will not change design, just want to draw them in my style)

[a-lonely-dunedain]

omg I totally forgot I was tagged in a WiP Wednesday thingy by @vakarians-babe well it's still (technically) Wednesday in my timezone! how do these things work again? just post a snipit of whatever you worked on last? sure I can do that!

anyway hi uhhhh sorry ask prompts still in the askbox (and Bitter Ash) (and the like 5 other things I need to finish) I got distracted by something else entirely oops. Just a lil something with Margim my beloved

I can hear the rain outside, I try to find it comforting, for there was no rain in Mordor. The sound is usually a boon in quieting those memories, yet I do not think anything will drown them forever. Especially not tonight.  I take deep, steady breaths, like Celeair told me to, but my heart still thrashes in my chest like a caged animal. I know I am not in Mordor, I know I know I know, I am safe here, but the memory is so strong now, it drowns out all other sensations. Against all reason I still feel like I am back there, all I know is fear and fire and foes. I listen to the rain, I still hear screams. I grip the blanket with white knuckles, trying to feel its softness, but I still feel blades underneath my skin. A low rumbling of thunder becomes the uneasy murmurs of Orodruin, for a moment I can taste ash in the air, feel its heat on my skin.

yea so I wanted to do something similar to this old one but like with Margim instead of Celeair, seeing as they both struggle with night-terrors. idk if/when it'll be in a state where I wanna post it but I just got a shot of distraction inspiration to start it lol

well it seems a bit late but I still feel like I should tag folks, no pressure of course! @thalion71 @sweetearthandnorthernsky (not tagging everyone in my mutual circle so y'all will still have people to tag if you want lol)

[sippinggossip]

"Regardless if they are a PR couple they are cute"

Sorry but what does that mean? They are together for almost a year already at more than official events.

Here's a timeline of their relationship (Damiano and Dove) the not aware people:

First they started dating in New York when the band was there to start their tour and for the VMA thing. Then continued in LA where a video of them kissing got out, also they left together that party, Dove was wearing his Daddy hat and she did hang out with his friends. The Thomas guy (not the Thomas from the band, their LA friend) posted a pic of them, also there's a pic on Dove's instagram from that night.

Next. Dove went to Brazil and first they were seen at Anitta's party together. Then they were seen at the hotel lobby in Rio. Then Dove was at the concerts and lastly they were seen leaving in a car, also joined by Ethan.

Next: Australia: She joined for the concerts there. Fans saw them holding hands in Adelaide. Later the beach pics from Melbourne got out too.

Next: She joined him in Dublin, Ireland where they stayed a few days and were seen in a bar with his brother and friend by a fan girl who later posted the pics and said she talked to both of them, more to Dove who was very nice.

Next: Damiano took her to Rome after Dublin where they were seen having a dinner being very in love. Also seen with his friends again.

Next: Then went to Manchester together. Last concert of the tour at the time. After that he took Dove to Rome again. His tattoo artist posted a pic and said she was the photographer.

Now on to 2024: I will mention only the times fans saw them because probably everyone knows about the official pics.

In January, Damiano went to LA and they were seen multiple times there. At the flea market by a few guys. One guy took a pic with Damiano and a girl with Dove.

They were seen by fans holding hands, walking around Krustyland with Damiano's brother and a friend who were visiting.

Next seen at Disneyland with Damiano's brother and his girlfriend.

Next they went to Las Vegas with his brother and girlfriend. Tea Hacic, a long time friend of Damiano and Vic posted a video of her and Dove. They did hang out together. Later they followed each other.

Next: They went to Rome for a few days. They were seen before the Roma game, holding hands, looking happy. Then the pics from the match itself are probably known.

After that they went to Milan to work on their Met gala costumes. Also in Paris for a few days. Damiano posted about Paris himself.

Then they returned to LA where they were seen shopping and looking in love, kissing. Some girl even saw them at a sex shop other day.

Latest: Girl sees them possibly getting food at 2 am. She wasn't sure what they were doing but she saw them pass by and shared the video.

After that Damiano leaves LA after Met gala to do festivals. Dove couldn't go because she films new series in Montreal.

Damiano goes to Canada to see her in his free days from festivals. He was seen on the plane. Dove's latest post is assumed to be from them going out in Canada.

If you still wanna believe it's PR and they pretend all the time , go ahead.

I didn’t say that I believe they’re a PR couple. I personally don’t think they are. I also meant to say “regardless or not”, but I forgot.

I honestly don’t know why I said all of that, lol. Oops.

[theabyssinyourcloset]

The shortfin mako

Last time (over a month ago, oops) I talked about the goblin shark. There has now been a request (can I call it that?) by @surprisemice to do the mako shark next, so here we go!

So, the scientific name for the shortfin mako (also known as the shortfin mako shark, blue pointer, mackerel shark and bonito shark) is Isurus oxyringchus. There's also a longfin mako shark, which is its own separate species (Isurus paucus). Although both are commonly called makos, the shortfin is better known, and so I will be introducing it first (I'll write about the longfin in a separate post sometime later). The shortfin mako is an endangered species, along with the longfin.

The shortfin mako shark typically inhabits tropical waters all around the world, far from land, at around 150 metres (490 ft). It's an endothermic species (one of the very few) that isn't typically found in waters colder that 16°C (61°F).

The species was first discovered around 1810. Unfortunately I did not find where that happened. I also cannot find any information about how old this species is. I seriously don't know how I was able to dig up so much information about the goblin shark :/ well, I'm going to tell some other cool facts about this species instead (once we get there)!

The shortfin makos are typically a colour of dark blue on the top. The colour turns to metallic blue, before turning to white on the bottom. The sharks typically have around 6-8 teeth on their upper jaw, but overall they have 12 sets of them. Quite a lot. Not to mention that they're razor sharp. These sharks also have around 50 teeth that are not in use. They are possibly only there, at the back of their mouths, to intimidate other predators (mainly other sharks).

The shortfin mako usually grows to about 2,5 to 3,2 metres (8,2 to 10,5 feet). Females are typically larger in size than males. They normally weigh around 60–140 kilograms (130–310 pounds). The longest verified length for an individual was 4,45 metres (14,6 feet), and the heaviest was around 600 kilograms (1 300 pounds). Those two were separate cases, though.

Now, some fun facts. The shortfin mako sharks are the fastest species of shark (I like the fact that this shark was used as a mascot for @surprisemice's old swim team, you people must've been good), reaching up to speeds of 80,47 km/h (50 mi/h). That's quite fast, I must say. Also, what I find even more cool is that these sharks can jump above water, at heights of 9 metres (almost 30 feet). I just searched that up and I'm not going to lie, my jaw dropped open. So glad I'm doing some random shark posts like these, I get to learn cool stuff.

Another fun fact: the term 'mako' comes from the Māori language (or its different dialects), with mako meaning shark or shark tooth. Idk why but I just find that cute.

So, in conclusion: The shortfin mako shark is an endangered species of shark found all around the world in tropical and overall warm waters. They're also currently the fastest shark species out there.

Below I have provided images of this beautiful species:

The shortfin mako shark.

Another image of the shortfin mako shark.

The shortfin mako shark jumping out of water (impressive).

Gif with a good view of the teeth of the shortfin mako shark.

Hopefully this was enjoyable to read! I'd be glad to receive feedback on my info posts, if anyone has any. But that's it for today, have a great day/night/whatever time it is there where you are (here it's basically midnight *cough cough*)!

I'll make a separate post about which shark species' I want to write about, eventually crossing off the ones I have written about. (That isn't that important right now though)

I have once again forgot to cite my sources. Fuck me.

All sources read/visited on 4th March 2024, by The Abyss In Your Closet

[lithiag]

Drawn Together - Part 4

Hey, long time no see. So sorry it's been so long since I last posted. I've been really busy with things going on in my personal life. I've also started watching SWAT, so I also started writing fanfic for that... so I kinda forgot about this for a while. I looked it up the other day though and I saw I have already written over 100 pages for this fanfic (though not everything is ready to upload yet), so yeah... I should probably get back to it.

Hope you enjoy! Again, so sorry for the wait.

Also, if anyone is interested in a Hondo fanfic, lmk, the first two chapters are almost done (and I have close to 90 pages written in total already, oops).

Anyway, here is the next part of this fanfic. Once I know how to make a masterlist, I'll make one.

CW: Nothing special in this one, just normal CM content. So: Violence, child endangerment, Spencer being a nerd, Hotch being bossy, Derek kicking down doors, you know the drill.

Drawn Together - Chapter 4

Everyone was working on the profile the next morning. Hotch had given them all orders, and they worked on narrowing down a suspect pool, when Derek came in, much later than the others. 

"Sorry, slept through my alarm." He said and quickly got to work and helped Reid with the geographical profile with what he and Melony found out the night before. 

"Didn't someone try to wake you?" Spencer asked him, 

"Pearson did try to shake me awake, but I guess I fell asleep again." Derek shrugged.  

"You really went in there?" JJ asked Melony, a slight look of disgust on her face. Melony looked at her, confused at her disgust, 

"Ehm, yes? He wasn't there for breakfast, I told you I was going to try to wake him up." 

"I know, but I thought you were just going to knock on his door." 

"That didn't work, so I went in to give him a shake." 

JJ blinked a few times, "Wow, I can't believe you managed to even get to him." 

Melony frowned, "What do you mean?" 

"Morgan smells horrible in the morning. You didn't notice?" 

Melony chuckled slightly, "it's not that bad, right? Sure, he doesn't smell good, but it's not that terrible." 

"Do you even have a sense of smell?" JJ asked, half joking. 

"Actually, it could make perfect sense that he smells differently to each of you." Spencer interjected, "Your nose is able to pick up a lot, and whether or not someone smells really bad can be an indication who is or isn't a good partner. If someone's natural smell smells horrible to you, it is possible you have similar immune systems, and your body is telling you your offspring together would be less healthy. If you don't really mind the smell, you could have very different immune systems, which would mean your offspring would be a lot healthier." He explained. They all looked at him, not sure what to do with this information. 

"It's really interesting how much your body can pick up." Spencer said, hoping to alleviate some of the awkwardness. 

Derek looked at Melony, 

"You heard the man," he said jokingly, "we gotta make some babies." 

Melony forced a slight chuckle, "In your dreams, big guy." She joked back and turned back to her paperwork, wanting to forget about the conversation as soon as possible, even though she couldn't help but imagine having a child with Derek. Not because she actually wanted it, but hearing Reid talk like that painted quite a picture. She really did her best to focus on the profile, but part of her mind wandered to what it would mean. It went back to the night before, and that it would mean sleeping together more often, and that he... 

She tried to stop herself, but she couldn't help but wonder what it would feel like to fully be with him, not a single barrier between them. 

Fortunately for her, Garcia interrupted her thoughts with a call. Derek answered the call and put her on speaker, 

“Hey, Baby girl, what ya got? You are on speaker.” He said. 

“Well, my delicious bundle of muscles, I looked into what you sent me last night and I tried to find twins in the area that looked a lot alike, but I found ziltch, nada.” Garcia started, “I then expanded my search to include any brothers or cousins, or any other family relation where two men would come up as potentials in a facial recognition search.” 

“Did you find anything?” Spencer asked. 

“Well, smarty pants, the only two pairs of men I found look nothing like the sketch, and their records are squeaky clean, only, like, 2 parking tickets between the four of them.” 

Melony sighed, frustrated their theory seemed to be false. She really thought Derek and her had broken the case wide open. 

“But,” Garcia said a bit peppier, “Rest assured, my heroes and sheroes, I did find a potential suspect for you.” She said and all of their phones pinged, signalling they got a message. 

“Meet Larry Winscott. 36, single, owns a farm just outside of town.” Garcia continued while everyone opened the file they were just sent, the man looked quite like the sketch Melony had made, 

“What about this guy?” JJ asked, “All you sent us was a picture, an address and age.” 

“Well, aside from looking quite like Mel’s sketch being what is up with him, what I just sent you is all I could find on him. There is no record of this guy. Not even a birth certificate. He just appeared one day, then disappeared again. I can’t even find a water bill. Nothing.” 

 “How did you find him?” 

“Like I said, he did appear somewhere at some point, so he is registered. I just did a standard facial recognition search on the sketch, not family or other lookalikes to narrow it down. A couple of guys popped up and this one is the most suspicious. I will send you the other results I got as well so you can have a look.” 

“Thanks, Doll.” Derek said. 

“Go get them, Tigers.” Garcia replied and hung up. 

Once they got the other files, they took a look at them to see if there was anything suspicious about any of the other potential suspects. Melony quickly went to visit some of the people they had spoken to and showed them the picture of Larry they had. People confirmed that was the man they saw, but he was a bit younger in the picture, and was missing his scar. She told the rest of the team what the people told her, and they got ready to pay Larry a visit. 

As they were about to walk out, one of the cops who worked with them came in, 

“We have 2 new abductions.” 

~*~ 

The team arrived at the property and parked their cars somewhere they wouldn’t be very noticeable. It was still early, and they hoped they could catch Larry and his partner before they could harm the children they took. They split up into small groups and spread across the property. JJ and Spencer noticed the van next to a shed and approached it.  Larry’s brother was cleaning it and making some preparations for the next round. He noticed the FBI agents and tried to make a run for it, but tripped over some roots and the duo cuffed the man and took him in. 

Hotch, Melony and Derek went into the big house on the property, where they heard some screaming come from the basement. Derek kicked in the front door and they cleared the ground floor. They found the stairs leading to the basement, and the trio went down. There Larry was, tying up one of the little boys they had taken to a chair in the corner of the dark room, the other already tied to a table. Larry heard people come in and looked behind him. When he saw it wasn’t his brother, he grabbed a knife from his pocket and sat down behind the little boy’s chair and held it to the kid’s throat. 

“Get outta ‘ere!” He yelled. 

“We can’t do that, Larry.” Melony said. She looked at her two male colleagues, who were aiming their guns at the man and thus the kid, before she put her own gun down. 

“Just GO!” 

“I can’t, Larry. Those boys need to go back to their moms.” 

“They were abandoned. I’s just puttin’ them outta their misery.” Larry pressed the knife closer to the child’s throat. 

“They were not abandoned.” Melony said calmly. 

“They was. If they ain’t, they wouldn’t be ‘ere now.” 

 “They have families, Larry. A mother, a father, siblings.” 

“They don’t got no father. They moms took them. I was gonna be their family, their father.... Them punks don’t wanna listen.” Larry said, angry. Derek Shot Melony a look that they needed to hurry up. She looked back at him and gave him a little nod, 

“You feel lonely, right?” 

Larry looked up at her, “You don’t know me.” 

“Did your parents leave you and your brother?” Melony asked and took a little step closer to him. Hotch whisper yelled her last name to tell her not to do that, but she ignored him. Larry pointed the knife at her now, as he did notice her take a step closer. 

“I know what that’s like. My dad abandoned me too.” Melony explained and took another step closer before moving closer to the ground and crouching slightly so she would look less intimidating to Larry. 

“They just left us.” Larry said through gritted teeth. 

“And it’s not fair. You didn’t deserve that.” 

“We’d been better dead.” 

“You wouldn’t be.” 

“The hurt don’t stop. We is protecting them from hurt.” Larry said. 

“They have family who loves them, Larry. Let us help you. We can find people who love you. Then the hurt can become less.” Melony came a little closer again, but did keep a save enough distance because of the knife. Derek slightly moved from his previous position so he would have a clearer shot in case Larry tried to attack her. 

“I-it can?” Larry asked and he slightly lowered the knife. Melony nodded and gave him a little smile, 

“It can. I know so. It hurt when my dad left, but it hurts less now. Let us help you.” 

Larry thought it over for a couple of seconds, and his eyes darted across the room. He then saw the two men with their guns again, and his face hardened, 

“You’s lyin’. It don’t ever stop.” 

“It might never fully go away, but it can get better, Larry.” Melony tried to assure him. She wanted to take him in peacefully, as she could tell he was very unstable, but she was a bit more on guard now. 

“You’s dad abandoned you?” Larry asked, and Melony nodded. 

“Well,” Larry said and stood up, “Then maybe you’s better dead too.” He said and raised his knife. He lunged at her, but before he reached her Derek fired a shot into his shoulder. He dropped to the ground and screamed out in pain. Melony was frozen for a second, but quickly kicked the knife away from Larry and twisted his arms onto his back before cuffing him. Derek and Hotch both untied one of the boys. Once the boys were free, Hotch took over taking Larry upstairs from Melony, 

“That was very risky.” He said and gave her an accusatory look. 

“I know, but when he mentioned being abandoned by family, I thought I could maybe calm him down.” 

Hotch sighed, “You did well, but be more careful next time. It was difficult for Morgan and me to get a clear view to shoot him.” 

“I’m sorry.” 

Hotch slightly nodded his head towards the boy he just untied, and Melony walked to him and crouched down to be more on his level. 

“Hey, are you okay?” She asked him and the boy gave her a little nod, 

“Shall we go back to your mom?” 

The boy nodded again. Melony grabbed his hand, and they walked upstairs. 

~*~ 

Everyone took a seat on the plane and tried to get comfortable. They had spent a couple of hours bringing back the children, talking to press, and packing their things for the journey back home. Spencer had claimed the couch and made a makeshift pillow out of his coat and a sweater, JJ was working on her laptop, Elle was on her phone, and Gideon and Hotch were in the back, already going over some of the paperwork that needed to be done. 

Melony had sat down across from Derek. They had talked for a little bit, Derek also lightly scolded her for putting herself in a risky situation. After a while though, they could laugh again. Derek put on his headphones at some point and had fallen asleep in his seat. Melony tried to sleep, but couldn’t, so she grabbed her sketchbook and decided to take the opportunity to start drawing Derek. She wouldn’t get much chance to draw someone where they would sit still like that, and she wanted the extra practice. She focused on her drawing. Since he was sitting so still, she wanted to get as many details as possible. Little lines by his eyes, the small dimples in his cheek, his scruff. 

She focused quite a lot on getting his lips right. Those beautiful, soft lips she felt on hers just the night before. 

"That's pretty good" said a voice right behind her. Melony jumped in her seat and quickly closed her sketchbook before looking up at who saw watching her draw. 

"Hotch... you startled me." 

"I'm sorry. It genuinely looks good. Do you draw us often?" Asked Hotch, who stood in the aisle of the plane, and leaned a hand on the back of Melony’s chair for some extra stability. 

"Quite a bit, actually. I like the practice. At the training they keep saying 'every detail matters, one small detail can change a face' and stuff like that. So, when I have the opportunity to take my time to draw as many details as possible, like now, I like taking them." 

"How is the training going?" 

"Pretty good. It is a lot, but I do enjoy it. I don't know if you have gotten a report on me yet, but I feel like I'm learning a lot." 

"I have gotten the first report. You've only started a few weeks ago, but they said you have great potential. You are a fast learner. And clearly you have already put in a lot of time to hone your skills." Hotch said with a gesture to her sketchbook. Melony smiled a bit, 

"I'm glad they can tell I try my hardest." 

"I'm glad you are trying your hardest," Hotch said, "We are very glad to have you on the team. Your sketches help a lot, and it is convenient to have you with us. It saves a lot of time." 

"I am happy to help where I can. I know I am not that great around crime scenes sometimes, so being able to help like this is nice." 

"Good." Hotch said and smiled at her. Melony smiled back and opened her sketchbook again. She wanted to flip to the right page to continue the drawing she was working on, but her boss stopped her, 

"What is that?" He asked, partly confused, but mostly amused. 

"What?" Melony asked. 

Hotch turned a few pages back to a different drawing. It was one of him, but he had a short beard and an earring. 

"Is that supposed to be me?" He asked. Melony smiled, a little embarrassed.  

"I, I sometimes do things like this as practice as well. Because small things can change a lot about a face, I like practicing with changing features to see what it would look like. It sometimes happens that people tell us the unsub has long blond hair, but they cut and dyed it by the time we arrest them. Or they shaved their beard." Melony explained. “Or like with this case, a scar on the cheek can change a face as well.” 

"Right. Is that something they told you to do in the course?" 

"Not really. They told us that it does happen, and to not blame yourself too much. But this is not a specific thing they want us to do." 

"Do you just focus on hair and earrings?" 

"No. Many small things can make a difference. So, I do a lot. For example," Melony flipped through her sketchbook to a different practice drawing she made, "JJ with very thick, dark eyebrows. Or, " she turned the page to another, "Gideon after Botox" she joked, showing a drawing of Gideon with very smooth, wrinkle-less skin. 

Hotch chuckled. "It does change a lot indeed. Any other funny ones?" He asked and sat down next to her. 

"Oh, plenty. But I have two favourites." Melony said, a bit excited and looked for the right drawing. Once she found it, she showed Hotch. It was a drawing of Reid, but she had given him a buzz cut, a snake tattoo on his neck and a big scar across his eye. 

"Wow. I hope we will never see him like that," Hotch said, holding back a little laugh. 

Melony smiled more and turned the page to her other favourite fun drawing. This time Hotch couldn't hold in his laughter, but he did try not to laugh too loudly so he wouldn't wake anyone who was trying to sleep. 

Melony showed him a drawing of Derek. He had a clean-shaven face. She had given him a beauty spot slightly above the right side of his mouth. His lips were darker, as if wearing lipstick, and plumper. His eyelashes were also more accentuated, as if wearing mascara. Most notably though, we the long, dark waves cascading down from the top of his head. 

"That is, ehm," Hotch cleared his throat, "a very different Morgan." 

"I call him Drag-Derek." 

Hotch chuckled. Morgan slightly turned to them and opened his eyes. 

"What are you guys laughing at?" He asked sleepily. 

"Nothing," Hotch said, "Pearson just showed me some funny pictures. We should be landing in about 15 minutes." Hotch got up, "Get home safely. Good work on the case, you both. Pearson," He looked at her, "thanks for the laughs." With that, he walked back to his previous seat further down the plane. Melony smiled, proud she made her boss laugh. 

"I'm sorry we woke you." She said to Derek. He shrugged,  

"It's fine. We need to get up soon anyway. Now I have a bit of time to wake up." He said and sat up. 

Melony put her sketchbook and pencils back in her backpack, 

"What kind of pictures did you show Hotch?" 

Melony smiled a bit, "It's nothing." 

"Hotch doesn't laugh. Not around us." 

Melony shrugged, "What can I say? Maybe I'm just funny." 

"What did you show him?" 

"That's between me and Hotch." Melony said with a little grin. 

Derek rolled his eyes a bit, "I'll figure it out." 

*

They soon landed and they went to the office to get some of the paperwork ready for the next day. 

"Don't worry about coming in early tomorrow. We all need some rest after that case." Gideon said, "take tomorrow off. We'll see you the day after." 

"Great, I could use some time to unwind" Derek said as he started grabbing his stuff. 

"Tell me about it" Elle agreed. 

"Me too" Melony said and grabbed her coat. She packed her last few things and walked towards her car. The others followed soon after and Derek joined her in the elevator. 

“Wanna come over tonight?” He asked her as they walked in the same direction towards their cars, “I made too many burritos, they are about to go bad.” He quickly added as an excuse, but Melony could tell from the look in his eyes what he was really after. 

“Sure,” She said with a little grin, “I’m always up for burritos.