#give Amir a loving family

[cartoonrival]

most of us have a choice about how often we visit our families, but that is a luxury not granted to the families of those trapped in gaza, which has become an open-air prison under constant bombardment for more than a year. instead, separated from their loved ones and unable to hold them close, their only option is to turn to strangers online and convince them that the suffering is bad enough for people to help.

pictured are malak and amir, the young children of ahmed and iman. ahmed has been trying to raise money for his family from egypt to reunite with his family. he has been separated from them for almost a year, and can only see his children through photos.

please, please share this post to help ahmed's brother in law, mohammed, get surgery on his arm, which was injured in the war. the funds will also help the family afford to continue to live in gaza, and eventually escape the conflict and see ahmed again.

even $5, $10 will make a difference. skip buying a coffee today and send that money to a family who is trying desperately to stay together.

Palestine will be free, and until that day comes it is the obligation of those of us who are lucky enough to be outside of Gaza to give our love, support, and donations to those being terrorized by the occupation.

@mohammedatallaah

vetted by 90-ghost

[backtraf]

Okay forgive my rant, but when was the last time the Drifter had any sort of love shown to them, platonic, familial, or otherwise? They grew up on the Zariman, alone to the point that they brought a fictional place in the void to life. Sure there were times there that they could have felt companionship for a while, but it was all created so that the drifter wouldn't be alone.

Not to mention that their creation ended up turning on them and their own emotions became physical manifestations.

Then they finally escape their hell and get thrust into a war that is the operator's, but they still fight because it's what they do. The lotus then sends them back in time to go after Entrati and the operator stays behind. She clearly loves the operator more than the drifter.

So pardon me, but i got stuck in a spiral of imagining the drifter receiving snippets of love from each of the protoframes and they just don't know what to do with it.

Arthur giving them a small smile and a pat on the shoulder.

Aoi hugging them and they don't know how to respond until she tells them that their supposed to wrap their arms around her.

Quincy throwing his arm around their shoulders and telling them about the art of the deal.

Amir actively seeking them out because he enjoys their company.

Lettie telling them to sit down and shut the fuck up, they're injured and she'll be damned if they don't get proper treatment.

Eleanor confiding in them all her little sad secrets.

Velimir and Minerva adopting another orphaned child of war.

Flare excited that they can share their music with a like minded person

And Kaya showing off her nerdy collection.

Listen. I'm emotional thinking about all the ways the Drifter is finally finding love and belonging in a time that is not their own. Finally having a family.

[theobservatory]

What's in a Name｡⁠.ﾟ★ ˎˊ˗

｡⁠☆Synopsis: how they would name their children

｡⁠☆Cw: gender specific, talk of reader being pregnant

｡⁠☆CH: Damian ☆ Duke ☆ Tim ☆ Jason ☆ Dick ☆ Bruce

✧Bruce✧

Classic names for sure. He tends to lead very masculine for boys and very feminine for girls. It's not that he doesn't like gender neutral names, but it's not the natural place his brain goes when naming his kids.

Since he already has so many kids I doubt he would want anymore unless you did, and since he has almost entirely boys I'm giving him a girl lol. I already know that poor girl is going to find him insufferable when she becomes a teenager. He is the most overprotective dad around, he's not gonna want her to do nothing lmao.

For boys: Thomas, Arthur, Bennett, Dominic, Theodore, Charlie, Liam

For girls: Clara/Claire, Charlotte, Francesca/Francis, Theodosia, Lorelei, Evelynn, Alice

✧Dick✧

For girls: Summer, Josie, Mary, Leona, Elise, Simone, Willow

He loves sweet sounding names. He keeps it very wholesome. Every name he brings up is going to be soft and sweet, tho I wouldn't be surprised if he wanted a junior or a child named after his parents.

I did a poll and most people agreed he's a girl dad, but I can't help but imagine him with a son who's the spitting image of him, but also a momma's boy lol. In the end I went with an older girl and a younger boy a year apart. He's probably the best dad here tbh, I feel like he's just the type to go above and beyond for his kids.

For boys: John, Oliver, Adrian, Leo, Elias, Jonas, Henry

✧Jason✧

For boys: Roscoe, Demetri/Demetrius, Arlo, Thatcher, Adonis, Nicolas, Maximus

Leans towards stronger sounding names for either sex. Gender neutral names are brought up just as much as very masc or fem names. Like you can't tell me his favorite superhero isn't Wonder Woman, I would not be surprised if the first name he suggests is Diana.

Twin girls. Can you imagine his face when you tell him not only are you pregnant, but it's twins? He might pass out on the spot. I can also see him with another girl maybe a few years later, but whether she was planned or an accident is up in the air lol.

For girls: Cleo, Demetria, Vivian, Sloan, Devin, Blake, Ananias/Anias/Anania

✧Tim✧

For girls: Samantha, Erin, Kayla, Alexis, Monica, Alicia, Sydney

Gender neutral guy all the way. Just neutral names in general. He would probably bring you a baby name list that's just the top 20 names in the US rn, or he would go crazy trying to figure what the next most popular names are to get ahead of the curve. I also wouldn't be surprised if he wanted a junior or a kid named after his parents.

Tim is a boy dad, I don't think he could handle a girl in all honesty. Just one, maybe two, but with a giant age gap between them. Like I have an 18year age gap with my little sister, and if you have kids young I can definitely see this happening to y'all.

For boys: Luke, Derek, Ethan, Evan, Dakota, Jesse, Zachary

✧Duke✧

For boys: Lucas, Enzo, August, Everett, Amari/Amarion, Brooks, Dion

He also tends to go for names that everyone already has. He's perfectly fine with names not standing out in the slightest, I think he'd let you take most of the lead on naming a baby tbh.

I think after moving into the manor, he wants his children to grow up with a big family like he did. I can also see him as a foster parent or a social worker outside of his vigilantism, so maybe two or three biologically, but you still end up with a full house. The genders of your bio kids ? Still up in the air for me idk.

For girls: Mia, Parker, Nora, Eliana, Avery, Naomi, Zoey

✧Damian✧

For boys: Khari, Amir, Kylian, Imani, Nasir, Princeton, Isha

Like Jason, he also wants a strong sounding name. Though, I think he'd also want to incorporate his culture from nanda parbat into at least one of the names as well. I could also see him wanting something sweet or dainty for a girl, like he sees this tiny baby for the first time and just goes... No... You will be no warrior bc I will protect you forever. So dainty and small, like a tiny flower. I can also see him naming his children after anything royal or whatever, bc he's pretentious (adoring) like that.

Twin boys, and a girl a few years later. Much like Bruce I can already see his kids finding him unreasonable. Damian's a strict parent (unlike Bruce), but he's also incredibly overprotective. None of his kids can go anywhere or do anything without their father fretting over them.

For girls: Kala/Kali, Aaliyah, Aisha, Zahrah/Zaharah, Nyla, Ali, Meira

Tell me which names you like best, and your opinions on these headcanons as well (⁠＾⁠3⁠＾⁠♪ I will be picking from some of the names provided for any kid fics, unless one of y'all give me a better name, so feel free to give suggestions/tell me your fav baby names ¯⁠\⁠_⁠(⁠ツ⁠)⁠_⁠/⁠¯

Thank you to my fav name consultant on tiktok and reddit for making this possible lol. Tbh I know people with a lot of these names, like I have a cousin named Nasir, and another named Imoni, and my little sister's name was almost Francesca. The websites just made me actually start considering them for what they are.

Also, my fav name from this list is Naomi. I've loved that name for years, idk what it is, but I adore that name. My least favorite name on this list is Thatcher. That shit is ass bro. It reminds me of the game I Want To Fuck Mr.Hatcher... just... Yuck.

｡⁠☆Requests Open

[pookie-mulder]

March 2025 fic roundup

(Previous months here)

💒😷 half-sick of shadows by pookie_mulder (yours truly!)

Gotta shout out my first xf fic! I wrote it in my head when I couldn’t sleep, texted @skelavender about it, and got convinced to write it irl. (Thanks everyone for being so encouraging!)

If you like cancer arc angst, unconventional marriage, and shameless platonic flirting, give it a shot!

⛈️😴 Coming Back by Karen Rasch

This one is for the hurt/comfort fans! Scully needs some TLC dealing with the fallout of her abduction. Very sweet and heartwarming!

🦷💚 Petrichor by @aloysiavirgata

I’ve been reading a lot of casefics that deal with fairies recently. This one takes place post-Amir Fati and deals with a Mulder and Scully who spent a single night together and went back to ignoring their feelings (can anyone say RST to URT (unresolved romantic tension?). It’s flirty and adorable, and the case is super interesting!

🍸🥴 Good Vibrations by lysandra31

While taking care of a drunk Scully, Mulder discovers she has a… “collection” of her own. Seriously, this fic is as hot as it can get without being outright smut. What I wouldn’t give to be a fly on the wall the next day….

🪦💀 What We Do in the Trees by @wtfmulder

I love a good southern gothic vibe, and this fic definitely fits the bill! It takes place during the cancer arc, and the way the case makes Scully ponder how Mulder will mourn her is a wonderful gut punch.

🏜️🌵 Doorway to the Gods by @wtfmulder

Gah!! I don’t want to say too much about this fic — it’s best if you go in mostly blind. Suffice it to say it’s deliciously captivating, the writing is delectable, the smut will break your heart, and the character arcs it explores will make you want to lay on the floor and stare up at the ceiling. I want more of it!!!

🌲⛰️ Acadia by rivkat

You know what? @fine-nephrit wrote an excellent review of this fic that convinced me to read it. Just go read their post if you want to know what makes this one so amazing!

👦🏻🧥 Lacuna by @aloysiavirgata

Another casefic. This one is less about the case and more about Scully’s psyche. It delves deep into her desires for the future, her frustration with her situation, and conflicting feelings about Mulder. It’s wonderful and fascinating!

👨‍🌾🤰 A Thin Veneer by Analise

This post-colonization story is more of a casefic than anything else. Mulder and Scully are living in a small community of cabins in the middle of nowhere, just trying to survive. Mulder returns from a supply-gathering mission to a stranger at the camp and has to make sense of what he saw out in the world to keep his growing family safe.

It’s super fun to put the pieces together as more information is revealed! The stakes are high, the writing is compelling, and the OCs are interesting. Definitely recommend this one!

👽👯‍♂️ All the Mulders by Alloway

This short fic is undeniably weird (in a good way). It’s probably unlike any other fic you’ve ever read. It deals with one aspect of post-colonization life I’ve never considered and makes you ponder what makes a person a person. Anyway, give it a try!

🛋️🧠 Normal Conversations by Soronia

This is an author I just discovered who deserves way more attention in the fandom! Their writing style is so unique, and their fics had me giggling like a schoolgirl.

In this one, Mulder goes to Kersh-mandated therapy, acts like Josh Lyman in Noel, and absolutely ravishes Scully. In that order.

The dialogue is punchy, the psychoanalysis is brutal and cutting, and the smut is unbelievably hot. Please, do yourself a favor and read this fic asap!

⚾️🧢 Home Base by Soronia

The Unnatural is in my top 3 favorite episodes, so this was right up my alley! The flirting and banter and teasing are soooo well-done. Plus, M&S make good use of Mulder’s desk at the end, so there’s something for everyone.

💉🔥 Later by Soronia

After being exposed to a mysterious drug, our favorite agents suddenly can’t keep their hands to themselves. It’s hot, but also has such a great understanding of their relationship. I especially loved Scully’s POV; it was such a refreshing take on her feelings for Mulder. (Also, the final chapter is probably my favorite version of Skinner I’ve ever read! Somebody buy that poor man a drink.)

⏰📰 The Sin Eater by Jane Mortimer

This time-travel fic is short, but so interesting! Scully experiences missing time and must put together the pieces of what really happened. I don’t want to tell you any more than that — just go read it!

🪨🎨 Ever After by Jill Selby

This fic features time travel like you’ve never seen it before. Caught between two times and gravely injured, Scully must figure out what’s happening before it’s too late. It’s positively riveting, and every detail that’s revealed makes you yearn more for the full picture!

🛁💌 Clinical Detachment & Journey by Zuffy

(Clinical Detachment is the prequel — honestly, you can take it or leave it.)

In Journey, Scully must disappear to ensure her safety. I don’t want to tell you any more than that — it’s so fun to see the pieces come together and wrap your mind around the logistics of what happened.

———

P. S. I’m always happy for recs! You guys know by now the type of stuff I love, so if you encounter anything you think I’d like, send it my way!

[911actually]

‘9-1-1’: Malcolm-Jamal Warner Reflects on How His Arc Changed in Major Way

9-1-1 is finally giving Bobby (Peter Krause) and Athena (Angela Bassett) a new house after burning down theirs in the Season 7 finale. But how that played out was originally supposed to be very different. “I remember when Tim [Minear, showrunner] first talked to me about the character, initially I was the one that burned down the house,” Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who had an arc in Season 7 as Amir, a nurse who was burned and lost his wife in the fire that Bobby was inadvertently responsible for and that killed his family back in Minnesota, tells TV Insider. He loved that idea.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

[purplesimmer455]

While Emily goes with her cousin Piper to visit Tess, Megan heads to her parents house in Oasis Springs*. Her mom opens the door, and gives her a concerned look. "Hi, ma. Can I come in?" Megan says. "Sure, sweetie." Her mom says, ushering her inside. "Ma, I know you and dad are disappointed that I split from Tess," Megan brings up cautiously. Biyu sighs, and she reaches over to smooth a lock of hair from Megan’s forehead. "Bàba and I are just worried about you, nooboo. You told us you're in love with Iseul, who we love too of course, and that you and Tess split and you're moving Emmy to San Sequoia. It was a lot to take in. But we support you and love you, you know?" Biyu adds, looking into her daughter's eyes. Megan nods, her throat tight. "Yeah, I love you and dad too, and I know it's so sudden and it seems crazy but I couldn't stay with Tess anymore when I kept feeling this way for Iseul. I deliberated about it for so long but this seemed like the right choice." She adds, and her mom nods, pulling her into a bear hug and stroking her hair. Megan allows herself to cuddle her mom the same she used to when she was younger.

Biyu smiles at Megan as they pull away, and her eyes widen. "Oh! I forgot to tell you, but Iseul is here too." She adds. "Wait, really?" Megan asks. "Yes, she always calls your dad and I or comes over to check on us, bringing us food and telling stories about her family, she’s like another daughter to us." Biyu adds, a smile on her face. "It must be so tough for her to not have her parents anymore. Her brother is there for her but he has his own family and work and obligations and Iseul doesn’t show it much but she misses her parents fiercely," she adds and Megan bites her lip. "Yeah, Iseul’s always so strong, confident, and funny that I didn't think about how much it must suck for her have lost her umma and appa both at such a young age," She says. Biyu smiles sadly, and she and Megan head to the living room.

Iseul is hugging Megan’s dad, and as soon as she looks up and sees Megan, her whole face lights up. Despite how tough these last few months have been, seeing Iseul makes everything seem worth it to Megan. "Hey Kang," she says softly. "Hey Liao," Iseul says, her gaze going to Megan’s lips but not wanting to kiss in front of Biyu and Haoran. "Am I just a slice of fruitcake?" Haoran jokes, and Megan and Iseul laugh. "Of course not, dad," Megan says, and she goes over to kiss her dad's cheek. "By the way, fruitcake is delicious if done right," Megan adds, and Iseul and Haoran both raise their brows. "Megs, I can't believe you like it," Iseul says, shaking her head. "It's rather tasty," Biyu adds in her daughter's defense and Haoran laughs. "Darling, you would eat pickled eggs with tea when you were pregnant with our Megs,” he teases his wife, and she gives him a playful look, opening her mouth to retort.

While Megan’s parents bicker lovingly, she turns to Iseul. "How are you, Issy?" She asks quietly. "Good, especially now that I've seen you," Iseul adds softly, and Megan smiles at her. "How are you and the kids?" Iseul asks, and Megan smiles. "Good too. Safiya wants me to meet her new partner soon, and Amir is graduating this year from college and still with that sweet girl Lily. Emmy's good too, she's with her ma now and they're going to visit her granma and nana in Willow Creek. She's doing better now, Is, and I'm grateful for that," Megan adds softly and Iseul nods, folding Megan into her arms. She hears Megan sigh and snuggle into her, and she nestles her head onto Megan’s shoulder.

[aether-link]

I have to talk about this because it’s been bothering me for a little bit now. It’s to do with one of the conversations you have with Arthur about Amir.

Reason why it bothers me that, Arthur brings up the whole “I know why you stay here and don’t leave” and it’s because all of the hex members feeling like family and such. But he also brings up Amir being the reason as well, if your Amir’s partner. Yes, that’s wholesome on Arthur’s behalf definitely. But DE had the audacity to have an opinion too cheat… TOO CHEAT.

Listen, I’m sorry for saying this but, as a person who���s been cheated on multiple times. Seeing this option made my stomach flip. It was such a nice conversation with Arthur about Amir and his happiness and confidence growth, why in the world would they give me that as an option on Amir. Yeah Touche on DE literally thinking of everything on responses for these conversations, but oh my god. I was not prepared for that!

And no, I didn’t choose that response, I don’t want to hurt Amir. It would make me genuinely depressed 😭 I love seeing the other members talk about Amir and his growth. It’s nice. Just, augh the pain on that.

[inthedayswhenlandswerefew]

Napoleonville [Chapter 5: The Haunted House]

Series Summary: The year is 1988. The town is Napoleonville, Louisiana. You are a small business owner in need of some stress relief. Aemond is a stranger with a taste for domination. But as his secrets are revealed, this casual arrangement becomes something more volatile than either of you could have ever imagined.

Chapter Warnings: Language, references to sexual content (18+ readers only), dom/sub dynamics, smoking, drinking, drugs, infidelity, kids, parenthood, Adventures With Aegon, Targ family dysfunction, bodily injury, no Willis this time yay!!! 🥳

Word Count: 7.3k.

Link to chapter list (and all my writing): HERE.

Taglist: @marvelescvpe @toodlesxcuddles @era127 @at-a-rax-ia @0eessirk8 @arcielee @dd122004dd @humanpurposes @taredhunter @tinykryptonitewerewolf @partnerincrime0 @dr-aegon @persephonerinyes @namelesslosers @burningcoffeetimetravel-fics @daenysx @gemini-mama @chattylurker @moonlightfoxx @huramuna @britt-mf @myspotofcraziness @padfooteyes @aemonddtargaryen @trifoliumviridi @joliettes @darkenchantress @florent1s @babyblue711 @minttea07 @libroparaiso @bluerskiees @herfantasyworldd @elizarbell @urmomsgirlfriend1 @fudge13 @strangersunghoon

Let me know if you’d like to be added to the taglist! 🥰🧁

Every house is haunted, not just by phantoms of the past but by the ghosts of what could have been. They live in shadows, in doorways, in the periphery of your vision; you walk through them like smoke or mist. Their blood—pooled and pulseless—is a cold spot in a sweltering room, their fingerprints are the woodgrain swirls of floorboards. If you listen closely, you can hear them at night in the chorus of the cicadas and the owls and the wet westbound wind. They whisper questions you’ve never been able to answer: Have I made the right choices? Have I done the best I could? Is love a myth or does it only exist for other people? Am I a prisoner of the past or the future or myself? Why have I never been chosen?

In the bathtub, you stare at the pale blue walls veined with cracks like the legs of a spider. On the tree swing in the front yard—here long before you moved in, inherited from the effort and care of another family’s hands—you skim your bare feet over emerald blades of grass and watch the lightning bugs appear at dusk. In Cadi’s room, you play the Nintendo when she asks and try to forget who gave it to her; and when she asks about Aemond, you say he’s busy with work, because how else can you explain his absence to a child? In the kitchen, you break eggs into glass bowls of vanilla, sugar, flour, butter, baking powder, but you keep getting pieces of shell in the mix, something that almost never happens anymore. You snap, grab an egg, pitch it against the refrigerator where it explodes into calcium carbonate shrapnel and sterile yellow gore.

Amir looks up, startled. Behind his rectangular tortoiseshell glasses, his eyes dart between you and the viscera that stains the refrigerator door. At last he says softly, seriously: “What is it you liked so much about him?” Implicit in this statement are others: You’ve never liked a man this much. You’ll never see Aemond again.

You study your palms, tools of creation, tools that destroy. “I spend every second of my life consumed by responsibilities. The house, the car, the bakery, the bills, Cadi, Willis, myself, even you. There’s no one to tell me what the right thing to do is. There’s no one who can carry the weight for me. I can’t show it when I’m tired or frustrated or scared. And so to have someone who—even for an hour, even for fifteen minutes—could take care of me, and make all the decisions, and convince me to trust him…it’s the closest I ever get to being at peace.”

Amir gives you a sad, vanishingly small smile. “I’m so sorry.”

“Me too.” And you wet a dishcloth so you can begin to clean up your mess.

~~~~~~~~~~

It’s Thursday, and you’re coming home after delivering cakes for a birthday party down in Thibodaux. Your car radio is blaring Message In A Bottle by The Police. When you roll into the gravel driveway, the red Audi Quattro is waiting for you: parked right beside the house, like he belongs here, like he owns it. You throw open the door of your Chevy Celebrity and rage up the sloping, groaning steps of the front porch.

The first thing that hits you is the cold. There is an ambient humming, a chill that raises goosebumps on your bare arms. When you rush to the kitchen, you find an air conditioning unit in one of the windows, a metal box that turns the Fall-Down House into a tundra. They’re sitting at the hastily-cleared counter: Aemond leafing through the ledger book containing the financial records for the bakery, Amir beside him sipping a glass of sweet tea. Aemond glances up at you and then back down at the pale green pages, the lines of his face intense, focused. Amir greets you with a nervous titter, hiding behind his sweet tea. Ice jangles in the glass.

“What the fuck is that?”

“Our new air conditioner!” Amir says, overjoyed. “The customers are going to love it. No more waiting around in a stifling kitchen. You know how miserable it gets in here during the summer. We won’t be able to get rid of them! They’ll be purchasing cupcakes by the dozen just to have an excuse to get out of the heat!”

Aemond is still scrutinizing the ledger. “Why aren’t you buying in bulk?” he asks Amir. “The shelf life on things like sugar and flour has got to be six months at least.”

“We don’t have the liquid capital. We can’t spend cash if we don’t have cash.”

“And all these business expenses—mixers, coolers, pans, blenders, knives, the gas you burn when you make deliveries, the water you use to wash dishes—those are all tax write-offs, right?”

Amir hesitates. Aemond is aghast, his eyebrows shooting up into the blonde hair that shags over his forehead. The strands are damp with sweat and curling at the edges; he’s been working hard. He’s the one who heaved the air conditioner up onto the window ledge. His Marlboro jacket is draped over the back of his barstool. He’s wearing jeans, a black MTV t-shirt, and his Adidas sneakers.

“Please tell me you haven’t been paying income tax on money you aren’t actually keeping.”

“I didn’t know what we were allowed to write off, I was petrified to make a mistake! I don’t want to end up in Rikers!”

“They don’t put people in Rikers for tax evasion. You’d only go to minimum security.”

Amir rolls his eyes. “Well now you’ve convinced me.”

You are betrayed, furious. “You’re showing him the book?”

“He’s very bossy,” Amir says, slurping his sweet tea. “As you know.”

Aemond asks you, making notes on a legal pad he’s commandeered: “Do you have an IRA?”

“A what?”

“An IRA,” Aemond repeats slowly, emphasizing every syllable. “An individual retirement account.”

Should I? Could I? What the hell is that? “Um. I don’t think so.”

Aemond sighs, exasperated. He jots down another bullet point on his legal pad. “You need one.”

“I need you to get out of my house.”

“Shh!” Amir pleads. “He bought us an air conditioner!”

“Do you know how much that’s going to cost us in electricity? The bill is going to go through the roof. We’re not going to be able to afford this. And he doesn’t care, because he hasn’t even thought of it. Drop an oil rig into a lake and solve the unemployment crisis. Throw an air conditioner in a window and buy someone’s loyalty. He doesn’t understand us. He doesn’t care about us. He’s not capable of it.”

“I’ll pay for the electricity,” Aemond says. Now he’s looking at you.

“Get out,” you demand.

He seems—perplexingly—to be genuinely wounded. “I’m trying to help you.”

“Get out!”

Aemond stands, walks to you, backs you up until your shoulder blades hit the refrigerator. The metal door is cluttered with Cadi’s drawings, secured there with multicolored alphabet magnets: dinosaurs eating people, Rambo, astronauts rocketing to the moon, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Aemond is so close you can smell the cigarette smoke and cologne and sweat on him, see the smudges of ink on his fingers. His right eye travels all over you, defiant and hungry. His left eye—and you only notice when there’s no space left between you—is an impassive, glassy, not-quite-identical blue that never moves. It’s an imposter, and a very good one; but it’s not him. You think, unable to say it: What happened to your face? Who hurt you? Instead you strike out to shove Aemond away with both hands.

“Get out of my house—!”

“You want to get rough with me? Will that make you feel better?” he murmurs darkly, ignoring your palms when they collide with his chest, his collarbones, his jaw. Your flesh can’t hurt him, it can only graze his skin like stray bullets. “You want to hit me? Go ahead. I’ve had worse. I promise you I have.”

“I hate you!”

But you haven’t said the right word, and you both know it. He grabs your wrists, holds them still, whispers low and menacing into your ear as you struggle to rip your hands out of his grasp. “I dreamed about you all night. Tying you down, stretching you open. I want that. I think you do too.”

“I don’t want it,” you hiss; but already you’re imagining him on top of you, inside you, in control of you, and to resist that is like trying to fight the instinct to seek water, sleep, sunlight.

“Then tell me to stop.”

You glare up at Aemond, raging, burning. His gaze locks with yours and stays there. You are suddenly aware of the heat of his fingers linked around your wrists, of the pressure of his hips against yours as he pins you to the refrigerator. You can’t say it. I don’t want him to stop touching me. I don’t want him to leave and never come back.

Again, Aemond dares you: “Tell me to stop.”

From the kitchen counter, Amir is gawking at you both, his eyes huge, stunned, painfully uncomfortable. Nonetheless, he doesn’t look away. “I’m not leaving,” he informs Aemond. Just in case you’re weak enough to agree to something you’ll regret later; just in case you need a friend.

The spell breaks, the curse lifts. Aemond releases you and takes several steps back. He breathes deeply, running his fingers through his damp hair, composing himself. “You’re a good person,” he says to Amir.

“Thanks. I’m afraid I can’t return the compliment.”

Aemond turns back to you. Now he’s penitent, measured. Already, a part of you misses the weight of his bones on yours. But that’s not why Aemond is here. “Let me talk. Let me explain.”

No, you almost say. I’m not interested. I don’t want you anymore. There’s nothing you can tell me that will make me feel at peace with you again.

Instead, after long moments colored by waning sunlight and the whirring of the new air conditioner in the window: “Okay.”

~~~~~~~~~~

You’re on the tree swing, gripping the ropes and swaying slightly back and forth as you push off with your bare feet, rocking from your heels to your toes and then back again. Aemond lights a cigarette and takes a drag as he sits cross-legged on the grass in front of you. Amir keeps peeking out from between the blinds of the living room windows. Aemond glances around the yard, and you realize he’s searching for the alligator. His Marlboro jacket is folded neatly on the ground next to him.

“The gator’s not here right now, Aemond. She’s probably over in the trees. She’s not going to hurt you.”

He nods, but he doesn’t seem convinced. He fidgets restlessly with his cigarette.

All that money, all that power, all that ecological ruin, and he’s petrified of a five-foot gator that’s probably never eaten anything bigger than a pelican. It’s ridiculous. You smile weakly. “I think you have a phobia.”

He gestures to his scar, to his ruined left eye. “I’m afraid one will sneak up on me and I won’t be able to see it.”

He’s never spoken like this to you before, acknowledging his limitations, his impairment. He’s trying to be honest. He really is. “Where’s Christabel?”

“Back in the U.K.”

“When are you getting married?”

He shrugs, uninterested. “A few months from now, I guess. July. August. It doesn’t matter. I’m not really involved in the planning.”

“You’re a cheater,” you say. It comes out less accusatory than mournful. Why did you have to disappoint me? Why did you have to ruin this?

Aemond is dismissive. He puffs on his cigarette. “Everyone cheats.”

“No they don’t.”

“Everyone from my world cheats,” Aemond amends. “You marry for money or status or land or whatever, to prove you can snag someone who should be above you, to make your parents proud of you, to make sure your children have the right last name and titles. Then when the novelty fades—and it does, it always does—you find passion elsewhere.”

“That’s barbaric.”

“That’s aristocratic. Poor people get divorced two or three times. They have public brawls and call the cops on each other. We just have a different solution to life’s inevitabilities. My mother cheats with Criston, Daemon and Rhaenyra cheated with each other, I cheat with you, Aegon cheats with…I couldn’t even list them. A lot of people.”

Aegon. So that’s the debaucherous brother’s name. “Not all fancy rich people cheat. Prince Charles doesn’t cheat.”

Aemond bursts out laughing. “Of course he does! He’s been fucking Camilla Parker Bowles since like 1970!”

Your stomach sinks. Poor Diana. “I thought they were just friends now.”

“Yeah, sure, that’s what the tabloids say.” He inhales smoke—cancerous, lethal—and then exhales it in a grey gale like fog. “I think they stopped for a few years after he got married. But presently they spend as much time as they possibly can rendezvousing at all their friends’ country estates. Charles and Diana are miserable, but they’ll never split up. She’s entertaining herself with a cavalry officer named James Hewitt. Who looks suspiciously like Prince Harry, by the way.”

“And who does your father fuck on the side? Nancy Reagan?”

“He prefers the memory of a dead woman to my living mother. I’d say that counts as infidelity.”

The photograph Aegon showed me on the Targaryens’ refrigerator. Rhaenyra’s mother. And what else had been on that refrigerator? Pictures of the rest of the family? Old sketches and report cards? Souvenirs? A calendar with upcoming birthdays circled or starred? No. There was nothing. You consider Aemond with a disorienting blend of pity and barbed, venomous frustration. “I’m sorry Viserys has never been a good father to you. But that’s not an excuse to ruin other people’s lives.”

“Look, what you did…” Aemond begins with sizable effort. He puts the end of his cigarette out on the sole of one of his Adidas sneakers. “To walk away from something you believe isn’t right when everyone else is telling you to stay…that’s not easy. And maybe for you it didn’t feel so insurmountable because you’ve had to learn how to survive painful things on your own before. But all I’ve ever done was break my own bones so my father would notice me. I don’t mean that as a metaphor. I’ve fractured my ribs, my hands, my skull. And it’s still not enough. Love isn’t given in my family. I have to earn it. It’s all I know.”

“You could learn something new.”

He shakes his head. “I can’t. I won’t. That’s not a language I speak.”

Exactly how bad of a father was Viserys Targaryen? “Aemond, what happened to your face?”

“I don’t want to talk about that.”

You study him. “What do you want from me?”

“I want you to be my Camilla,” Aemond says.

“No. No way.” But you’re amazed by how badly you want to say yes. One word and he’ll touch me again? One word and I can have him back the way we were before? It doesn’t seem possible to resist that. It’s not something that should be expected of any mortal.

“I want to be around you. I want you to keep making me feel the way you do, because it’s…it’s…it’s not something I get from anyone else. And I want to make your life better. I have the ability to do that.”

“Because you’re an oil tycoon.”

“Yes,” Aemond agrees. “I was born to be one, and so I am. But even if I wasn’t—if I refused, if I died—it’s not like the trillion-dollar industry would just disappear. There’s Jade Dragon, sure, but there’s also ExxonMobil, Shell, British Petroleum, Chevron, Valero, Marathon, a hundred others. Someone would be drilling on Lake Verret regardless. But the person in charge might be less scrupulous than I am. I’m doing the best I can here.”

“Were you in Ketchikan when the spill happened there?”

“No. I’ve never been to Alaska. That was someone else’s project. It was a fuckup, it was Jade Dragon’s fault. But my father is the one fighting it in court. I have no control over that.”

Someone else’s project…

“Come to my house tonight,” he says.

“No, Aemond.”

“Then come over on Saturday.” And you think: He remembered which days Cadi is usually with Willis.

“I don’t want to be your mistress.” I want to be more than that, oh God, I want so much more. You think of Christabel touching him and wrenching nausea cuts through you like a blade. You imagine Aemond’s hands taking off her clothes—zippers, buttons, ribbons, belts—and you feel like there’s almost nothing you wouldn’t do to stop it from happening.

“We’re from two very different words,” Aemond says calmly, sensibly. “And it’s going to be impossible for us to understand each other unless we make an effort to learn about where we’ve come from. You’ve invited me into your home, your business, your family, and I’m very grateful for that. Now I need to do the same. And I think if you see more of my life, you’ll realize why I make the decisions I do and what it would mean for us to be together. Because in my experience, husbands and wives aren’t soulmates like they are in books or movies. It’s someone else who you actually…” He breaks off, then continues once he’s decided on the phrasing. “Spend most of your time with.”

Part of you knows that this arrangement would be hopelessly inadequate; you would feel like you were settling for less than you want, you would feel unchosen. But the louder part of you is clinging to it like a life raft. I want him to touch me again. I want him to make me forget about everything else. “I’ll think about it. Visiting the house, I mean.”

“Please do,” Aemond says. “How was Cadi’s weekend fishing?”

He really does listen to you; he remembers things. Even things you mention once and then never again. “She loved it. Willis knows more about the bayou than I’ll ever know about baking. They caught three catfish, four breams, and a bass, and then they made them into fish sticks. Thank God she has one parent who can cook. Even if Willis thinks Hungry Jack mashed potatoes are a vegetable. You know what he puts in the pot instead of milk? Coffee creamer. Cups of it.”

Aemond doesn’t seem pleased to be reminded of Willis’ existence. He says, rather mechanically: “I’m really glad Cadi enjoyed herself.” He grabs his Marlboro jacket, rises to his feet, scans the yard for the alligator. She’s made an appearance at last: she’s sunbathing about ten yards away, nowhere near close enough to be a nuisance. Still, Aemond frowns. Then he clears his face and looks back to you one last time as he strides towards his Audi Quattro. “And Cupcake?”

You peer up at him, shielding your eyes from the late-afternoon sun. “Yeah?”

“When you come to the house…” He grins. Not if. When. “Bring your swimsuit.”

~~~~~~~~~~

You cut the engine and survey the grand entranceway of the house that the Targaryens call The Last Desire, words in Greek that you couldn’t pronounce. The blue merle Great Dane—Vhagar, you recall, yet another bizarre foreign name—is lurking between the towering white columns of the wraparound porch. “Fantastic,” you mutter, stepping out of the car. It’s Saturday, 2 p.m., hot and muggy and cicadas screeching in the southern live oaks. Green anoles dart across the cobblestones and freshly-painted white wood of the porch. Whooping cranes, haughty and fragile, ogle you with reptilian yellow eyes.

You pause when you reach the bottom step of the porch. The Great Dane growls at you, her lips curling up to show long fanglike teeth. You’re carrying two bakery boxes stacked on top of each other: one contains a dozen blueberry pie cupcakes, the second filled with fresh Cap’n Crunch Treats. You glance around for someone to assist you with the hostile dog situation. You have no interest in attempting to shove her away like Alicent did on the day of the engagement party.

Blessedly, the head butler materializes in the doorway and beckons you inside. When Vhagar snarls as you approach, the butler pulls a small plastic water gun from the pocket of his black dress pants. “I’m terribly sorry for the inconvenience,” he tells you, and then squirts the dog several times. Vhagar reluctantly lopes away. “Please allow me to escort you to the pool. Mr. Targaryen instructed us to be on the lookout for you.” Then he breezes into the house without checking to make sure you’re following him.

You trot after the butler through the white-and-gold foyer, the deep red living room, and then out into the garden. There is a long row of neon green lounge chairs on the side of the pool opposite of the water slide. Three of the chairs are occupied. Helaena is stretched across one wearing a frilly one-piece, floral with ladybugs; her chameleon is perched on the top of the adjustable backrest. Alicent is in the chair beside her, dressed in a turquoise blue coverup that matches the pool water and reading The Silence of the Lambs. They both wave nonchalantly, seemingly unsurprised by your presence. And then there’s Aegon. He’s smoking a joint as a black boombox beside him plays The Cure’s Why Can’t I Be You? You place both bakery boxes on a table shielded from the sun by a large green umbrella.

“What’s in there?” Aegon asks. He’s wearing pink plastic sunglasses, a radiant fuchsia sunburn, and a Speedo patterned with pineapples. His ferret is curled up in his lap and napping.

“Blueberry pie cupcakes and Cap’n Crunch Treats.”

“Yes! Pass me one of each.”

“Don’t be rude, Aegon,” Alicent says dully, turning a page of her book. “She’s not a servant.”

“She’s a literal baker. I’m asking for baked goods.”

“Dear, I’ve been singing your praises to every single person I cross paths with in this jungle of a town,” Alicent tells you, ignoring him. “Have you noticed yet?”

You hand Aegon his treats; he marvels at the miniature blueberry pie placed atop the cupcake frosting before scarfing it down. “I think we’ve had more customers than usual this week, now that you mention it. Thank you so much! Amir and I are more grateful than we could ever express.”

“Oh, it’s the least I could do, love,” Alicent says. Criston appears with a strawberry daiquiri and gives it to her, complete with a swirl of whipped cream and a little pink toothpick umbrella pierced through a wedge of lime. Criston wears a pair of roomy Hawaiian board shorts and his single gold earring. Alicent takes a sip. “Heavenly! I am completely revived.”

“Helaena, would you like one?” Criston asks.

“Yes please.”

“And one for Aemond’s friend too, please,” Alicent says. Criston nods and hurries off again. Nobody asks if Aegon wants a strawberry daiquiri. He gnaws moodily at his cupcake and then when it’s gone moves on to the Cap’n Crunch Treat. Helaena’s chameleon snatches a dragonfly out of the air with its tongue. Alicent shudders.

Aemond’s friend? Friend?? You sit down on the lounge chair next to Aegon, still wearing your pale pink coverup. He tells you: “Aemond should be back soon. He got a phone call and had to swing by the rigs after lunch but he didn’t think it would take long.” Then Aegon smiles toothily, and you notice he has residual white powder around the corners of his lips and just inside his nostrils. “It’s good to meet you properly this time, now that I’m aware of all your talents.”

“You know about Aemond’s…uh…preferences?”

“Oh yeah, and I knew he had a girl. He always has to have a girl. I just didn’t know it was you. He doesn’t usually bring them around the family.”

You steal a glimpse of Alicent and Helaena. If they’re listening in, they’re doing an excellent job of not acting like they are.

“I think we should address this,” Aegon says.

You are stymied. “Address what?”

“It would never work, me and you.”

“I hadn’t even thought of it.”

“Sure you haven’t,” Aegon says. He flourishes a hand melodramatically. “You need a dom. I am, lamentably, an irredeemable sub. I’m a sheep in wolf’s clothing.”

“Okay, Aegon.”

“I just needed to break the tension.”

“I think you’re imagining that.”

There are footsteps, the slapping of flip flops against the cobblestones, and then someone who looks like a younger, more cheerful, more sober Aegon arrives at the pool. He is dressed in royal blue swim trunks that stop at his mid-thigh; his wavy blond hair is down to his shoulders. Like his family members, he also does not seem at all surprised to see you. “Hi,” he says, shaking your hand. “I’m Daeron. I didn’t get to introduce myself at the engagement party. I’m sorry about that. I was entangled in a very competitive tennis match on the courts out back for most of the day.”

Alicent asks: “Daeron, love, would you like a strawberry daiquiri when Criston reappears?”

“Yeah, Mum, that would be great.” He parks himself on the available chair beside her and begins asking about her book. As they chat, a blue macaw flaps through the garden and uses its long, leathery talons to claim the backrest of Daeron’s lounge chair.

“It’s so sweet of you to take an interest in my reading, Daeron,” Alicent gushes. “None of my other children ever do…”

Aegon groans loudly. Everyone ignores him. Criston arrives with two strawberry daiquiris, one for you and one for Helaena. You take a sip through a plastic straw with several loops in it: icy cold and jarringly sweet.

“And one for Daeron too please, Criston,” Alicent requests. “Did you hear that he just got another article published? It’s about evaluating rock wettability.” Her tone suggests that she has no idea what this means; nonetheless, she is ardently enthusiastic.

“That kid is going places,” Criston says admiringly.

Aegon counters: “That kid’s had phone sex with Michelle Pfeiffer.”

You laugh, thinking that it’s a joke. Daeron just gives you a sheepish smile. Oh, you think. Not a joke.

Criston hustles back inside the house. An old man passes Criston as he strolls out to the pool. He looks around blearily, like he’s hungover or has just woken up from a nap or both. His bloodshot eyes skate over you without much interest. He squints at the pool floats that bob in the rippling, crystalline water, sparkly rings and an assortment of foam noodles and a giant cartoonish alligator.

“How was Kiribati?” Aegon says.

“Much better than here. This goddamn humidity!”

“I can’t believe you missed the engagement party, Father,” Alicent says glumly.

“Oh no, how could I! I’ll never have any way of knowing what transpired!” He plops down onto a chair near the end of the row. His bare feet are gnarled, his toenails long and yellowed. “Let me guess. Cake was served, champagne was toasted, people bragged about their stupid hobbies and their ugly children, that girl scuttled about with her perpetually-startled eyes and asinine comments. Do you remember when she tried to give me her condolences when she learned your mother passed away years ago? Why would I want some moonstruck idiot’s condolences? She didn’t know your mother. She doesn’t know anything.”

“Christabel is very young,” Alicent offers gently.

“She’s very something, that’s for sure. Very useless. Very irritating. This family would be in a much better state if Viserys wasn’t the one making all the decisions. His judgment has declined precipitously.” He casts a poisonous glare at Aegon. Aegon pretends not to notice.

“I like Christabel,” Helaena says. Her chameleon gobbles up a butterfly that ventures too close.

“Yes, I’m sure you do.” The old man’s voice is kinder now. “You see the best in everyone. But dear Helaena, we are in for a lifetime of insipid simpers and vapid conversations.”

“A lifetime?” Aegon says. “So not much longer for you, Grandfather. What a comfort.”

The old man glowers at Aegon. “We should have left you in Alaska to have your throat slit by those animals.” And you hear Aemond’s words reverberating in your skull: I’ve never been to Alaska. That was someone else’s project.

Aegon is rolling himself a fresh joint, accidentally spilling sprinkles of weed on his slumbering ferret. He snorts. “I don’t care what Alaskans think of me.”

Daeron says: “Aegon, you poisoned 1,000 square miles of the ocean.”

“The fucking ocean,” Aegon mutters. “What do we even need the ocean for?”

“Vacations,” Otto says.

Helaena adds: “Sushi.”

Daeron is distressed. “Actually, the ocean is super important.”

“Why are we talking about the ocean?” Aemond asks as he strolls through the garden and pauses by the edge of the pool to dip a foot in to test the temperature. He’s wearing black swim trunks and nothing else, just his skin, just his scar and his glass left eye. He sees you, smiles, goes to the bakery boxes and lifts out a cupcake. He sits down on the edge of your lounge chair as he licks off the wave-blue frosting. No one makes any comment, and no one brings up Aegon’s role in the Ketchikan oil spill again.

Criston returns once more with a strawberry daiquiri for Daeron. “Well, I’ve just about killed the blender, so hopefully we don’t need any more—”

“But Criston!” Alicent cries. “What about Aemond and my father? Perhaps they are in need of refreshments.”

Criston sighs. Crestfallen, he looks at Aemond. “Do you want a strawberry daiquiri?”

“No, that’s okay. I’ll just have a few sips of hers.”

Aegon says: “Can I get a pina colada?”

Criston turns towards the old man. “Otto? Daiquiri?”

“No, but if you could immediately teleport me back to the South Pacific, I would greatly appreciate it.”

“Pina colada??” Aegon says again.

“Okay, Aegon,” Criston snaps. “Calm down. Let me figure out if we have any more coconut cream.” Alicent’s part-time bodyguard and personal assistant, part-time babysitter, part-time affair partner vanishes into the house yet again.

Aegon lurches to his feet. “No one listens to me,” he tells you morosely. “You see that? No one remembers. That’s how you know they don’t care.”

“Don’t be dramatic,” Alicent tells Aegon, not looking up from her book.

“Wait, someone is missing…” Otto muses, stroking his beard.

Aegon staggers to the edge of the pool, drags over a sparkly turquoise inflatable ring, and flops onto it. He paddles himself out towards the center of the pool. His ferret bounds after him, leaps into the water, and swims until it reaches Aegon, wriggling through the blue like a golden-furred snake. “Hey Sunfyre, you wanted to come too?” Aegon lifts the soaked ferret from the water and places it on his chest, soft and sunburned. “My bad. I assumed you’d prefer dry land.”

Otto—cantankerous and grating—looks around, baffled. “Wait, where’s Viserys?”

“He’s inspecting some of the rigs out in the Gulf of Mexico,” Aemond says as he finishes the cupcake and takes a slurp of your daiquiri. “He won’t be back until the end of the week.”

“Thank God,” Aegon exclaims from the middle of the pool.

Alicent changes the subject. “How long have you been baking, dear?” she asks you.

“Forever, basically. But I started getting serious about making it a business when my daughter was really young, about nine years ago. Now Amir and I sell hundreds of items a week, sometimes thousands.”

Daeron is nodding along, but he appears a little confused. He has gotten himself a Cap’n Crunch Treat and is feeding pieces of it to his blue macaw. “And you do that because…you want to?”

“Well I have to pay rent.”

“Oh. Right. Of course.”

“And I could have been a checkout girl at the Doller General, or worked seasonally harvesting soybeans or sugarcane, or begged my ex-husband to get me a job in the Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office…but I wanted to do something that didn’t make me miserable. And something that was really mine, that I chose.” Aemond is watching you thoughtfully. The other Targaryens are a tad interested but far more perplexed. They can’t understand work the way you do. They can’t understand money as something that must be counted.

“Brilliant!” Alicent declares at last. “Well, maybe one day we’ll have you making six cakes for Helaena’s engagement party, who knows!”

“It would be my absolute pleasure. Do you have a potential husband hanging around, Helaena?”

She giggles, covering her blushing face with both hands. Her chameleon creeps down to cling to her shoulder, as if to make sure she’s alright. Its conical eyes flit in random directions, an unmitigated freak of nature. You should have more compassion for it.

Aemond grins. “Helaena is responsible for no less than three broken engagements. She can’t commit.”

“And she’s only into guys who look like Aegon,” Daeron adds.

“No!” Helaena objects. “That is such a lie, that’s not true!”

“Evander?” Daeron says.

Helaena pauses to think. “Okay, yes, he looked kind of like Aegon.”

“He did, didn’t he?” Alicent frets, nibbling at the fingernail of her pinky.

“Dimitri?” Aemond says.

“Oh no,” Helaena moans; but she’s laughing too. “Oh no.”

“Sebastian?” Aegon says, and now they’re all howling.

Otto shakes his head. “Freud would definitely have some thoughts about this.”

“Bloody hell,” Helaena whimpers, swiping tears from her face. Her chameleon nudges her jaw with its shimmering, blue-green muzzle. “I totally only date guys who look like Aegon.”

Aegon shrugs from where he’s floating in the pool with Sunfyre. “Good taste, I’d say. Fuck them all, homegirl.”

“Aegon!” Alicent shouts, scandalized.

Criston dashes out of the house and to the edge of the pool, clutching a pina colada that is swiftly melting. “You better paddle yourself over here, kid. I don’t offer in-water delivery.”

“You’d do it for my mother.”

“Probably. But you’re not her.”

Aegon groans as he splashes around without making much progress. “Okay, okay, give me a second…”

Aemond turns to you. “How do you like the house? I realized I never got the chance to ask last weekend.”

“I like all the stained glass, and I like that every room is a different color. The living room is red, the dining room is yellow, the kitchen is teal, Aegon’s bedroom is black—”

“Wait, how do you know?” Aemond is alarmed.

You chuckle. “No, no, not like that. I was lost and looking for a bathroom.”

“Didn’t do anything,” Aegon announces from his pool float. “Didn’t do it, didn’t try it, didn’t even think about it. Well…maybe I thought about it. But I definitely did not do anything.”

“Okay.” Aemond exhales, relived. “Close call.”

“What color is your room?”

He’s not going to waste the opportunity to extend an invitation. “Let me show you.”

On the same floor as Aegon’s punk rock bedroom and the lilac bathroom, you trail Aemond to the end of the hallway. At last he opens a door to reveal a room that is a deep, vivid blue like sapphires. The bookshelves that touch the ceiling are filled not with texts on engineering or the energy industry but histories of people whose names you don’t recognize. He has a massive wooden canopy bed swathed in dark blue velvet patterned with circling koi fish made of stars. He has a writing desk, a wardrobe full of suits, a television with an extensive VHS collection. The stained glass windows are a whirlpool of cerulean, navy, aquamarine, indigo, steel, azure. When you peer through the glass, you can see the gleaming currents of Lake Verret and the twisted dead ends of the bayou that forms at its edges, treacherous and untamed.

And when you start to feel that if Aemond tried to grab you, undress you, tie knots around your wrists you wouldn’t stop him, you tell him that you want to go back outside to the pool; and Aemond listens, and he doesn’t try to touch you even once.

~~~~~~~~~~

It’s Monday, two days later, and Aemond calls to ask if he can bring you and Cadi dinner. He shows up with all the trappings of what he insists is real Italian food, doubtlessly prepared by his family’s private chefs: focaccia, caprese salad, ossobuco, risotto, Bolognese, panna cotta. He forgets the red wine, so you drink sweet tea instead, the three of you crowded around the kitchen counter, ceaselessly passing dishes back and forth while the little pink Panasonic boombox plays You Spin Me Round by Dead Or Alive.

“Hey Mom?” Cadi says as she chomps on a hunk of focaccia.

“Yeah?”

“Why don’t you ever cook dinners like this?”

There’s a tiny little gut punch, something you’re used to swallowing down even if it bruises you to the heart, to the bones. She doesn’t know any better. You can’t cry, you can’t get mad. You shrug, dispassionate. Aemond glances over at you, abruptly tense but not saying anything. “Well honey, it’s probably because my job can be really busy sometimes, and I spend most of the day in the kitchen, so when dinner time comes around the last thing I want to do is cook. But we always have food to eat, right?”

“Yeah. Like Amir’s leftovers or frozen pizza or something. But all my friends’ moms cook nice dinners most nights. Can’t you do that? When I go to Michelle or Erica’s house for dinner their moms make barbeque ribs, gumbo, seafood boils, etouffee, tasso ham, homemade macaroni and cheese, like real dinners. I want us to have that too. What if my friends want to eat dinner here sometime? I can’t bring them over and then just throw some Swanson’s meals at them.”

Aemond has put his fork down on his plate and is clasping his hands together, trying to figure out what to say. But he shouldn’t say anything. It’s not his place.

You tell Cadi, as calmly as you can: “Different families have different kinds of dinners, and that’s okay. I bet your friends’ moms don’t have cakes and cookies around all the time, but you always have tons of dessert options. Our situation looks different than theirs, but there’s nothing wrong with either one.”

“But desserts aren’t even good for kids. Dinner is way more important. You can’t say I get cakes instead of dinner, too much cake will give me diseases or something.”

“Okay, Cadi. That’s enough. Let’s talk about this later.”

“I’m just saying it seems totally unfair that my friends get real dinners and I almost never do.”

Michelle and Erica’s moms don’t work. They have husbands to support them. So they can spend all day babying a fucking tasso ham, but I don’t have that luxury. And I don’t want to be chained to a man. I don’t want to trade having a say in how my life turns out for being able to slave away over dinner for four or five hours. “I regret to inform you that I’m not like Michelle and Erica’s moms.”

“I wish you were,” Cadi murmurs, entirely unaware of what she’s done. You bite your lower lip so you don’t snap at her, or try to explain, or break down sobbing. You taste blood, hot sharp copper that blooms like wildflowers.

Aemond stands up. His barstool squeals against the sloping wooden floor. “Hey, can I talk to you outside for a minute?” he asks Cadi.

“Aemond, what…?” you begin, but he’s already headed for the front door.

Cadi blinks up at him, horrified. “Why?”

“You’re not in trouble or anything. I just want to show you something. Come on. It’ll be quick.”

“Okay,” Cadi says doubtfully, looking at you. You give her your best reassuring smile, and she slides off her barstool and follows after Aemond. The front door opens and shuts. You don’t hear shouting, you don’t hear much of anything except the air conditioner and the boombox and the mourning doves, the long-eared owl, the cicadas, the bayou, the universe. You go to one of the living room windows and part the blinds to peek outside.

What you see is strange. Cadi is sitting on the swing, and Aemond is kneeling in front of her so they’re just about at the same eye level. You can see half of Aemond’s face; Cadi is blocking the rest. He’s explaining something to her with patient yet insistent gestures of his hands. Cadi says something, and Aemond nods and replies. He points to his scar, his glass eye, and says something else. Cadi asks a question, and Aemond hesitates. Then he acquiesces and moves closer to where she is perched on the tree swing. He reaches up towards the scarred side of his face, but you can’t see his eye. When he lowers his palm, there’s a small piece of curved, oval-shaped glass that glints in the dying sunlight.

“Cool!” you can hear Cadi exclaim, muffled through the windows that are now closed on account of the new air conditioning unit. She says something else, and Aemond agrees. You watch her hand extending towards his face, towards the injury he has revealed to her for reasons you can’t comprehend. You rush to other windows, trying to get a better view, but there’s no way for you to get a clear line of sight. Before you know it, your hear their footsteps drumming up the porch steps. The front door opens just as you’re scrambling back onto your barstool.

“Everything alright?” you say, more nervously than you intend to.

“Yup,” Cadi replies. She climbs into her seat and resumes wolfing down focaccia and Bolognese.

You look over at Aemond, bewildered. His glass eye is back in its socket. He appears composed, but you notice the fresh sheen of sweat on his forehead, at his temples, at the nape of his neck. He gives you a casual little smirk and then returns to his barstool. He picks up his full glass of sweet tea and drains it in three massive gulps.

“Hey Mom,” Cadi says, and your throat is suddenly full of embers.

“Yeah, honey?”

“Tonight is really fun,” she says. She twirls her fork in the pappardelle pasta of the Bolognese, splattering red sauce over her cheeks. “This is great. I want to do this more often.”

And the embers in your throat cool, vanish, are replaced by something vast and free.

“You really do need a new house,” Aemond says as he helps you clean up after dinner; Cadi has already abandoned you both for her Nintendo. “There are new constructions a little further down Route 401, between here and Lake Verret. Three bedrooms, two baths. Not a castle or anything, just the right size for you and Cadi. We can go look at them sometime.”

“I don’t need a whole new house. There are midcentury homes all over the place down here. They’re small, and they might need fixing up, but they’re a lot cheaper.” Then you add, because it sounds less pathetic: “And maybe it’s nice to have a house with some history, some character.”

“Old can be charming and quaint, sure. But brand new is better.”

“Why’s that?”

He smiles. “No ghosts.”

[opwolfe]

Bro ngl I need to write this but I got ZERO motivation rn (getting burnt out from classes :( it sucks) ((some slight spoilers in here, skip if you haven't gotten to like, idk, rank 4~5))

But like, the hex with a/b/o dynamics, I'm going insane over it rn so

Arthur - TBHHHH he gives me alpha vibes but I know for a fact he's more beta, like he's obviously the leader but he's also sooo like, NORMAL, like he's just a dude, there's nothing really "macho man" about him and I love that so much, definitely a beta but with some skills on the alpha tree barrowed

Eleanor - alpha 100000% you cannot fight me on this, that lady is the real leader of the pack there's absolutely nothing to doubt about that sentence, she's just sooo UGH y'know??? She brings the stability to the pack and takes care of them in a lot of ways

Lettie - she's a beta, ngl I don't pay too much attention to her but just based on the conversations we've had she gives me beta, MAYBE just MAYBE some slight omega vibes with her ferality on healing and taking care of people

Amir - you might question me on this, but he's an alpha, DEFINITELY more of a baby alpha (if we look at how young he is compared to the others) and is definitely more subservient to the others in the pack, he's just a little guy but is so very protective over the people he loves

Aoi - she's an omega, the only omega honestly, but she's more of a beta omega then an omega omega, she's such a complex character once you really know her, she rounds out the cast so well with how she's so serious but also really funny to be around, she brings them together in ways I can't even begin to describe, she also helps amir with feeling like he belongs and I love that

Quincy - beta/omega honestly, DONT HATE ME FOR THIS TAKE PLEASE 😭😭😭 it's just the way I perceived his backstory and how he got into the hex, he went into the military to support his family like [subtle crying] I LOVE HIMMM 😭😭😭 he just wanted to take care of his family and ended up getting turned into a protoframe because of it, while yeahh that COULD make him seem like an alpha, he cares so much about the people around him despite feeling like he shouldn't (see; make me hate u conversation), he goes out of his way to give amir the ability to do things non-violently and to help other people even though before they had their whole "ur like a brother to me" moment, he flat out thought amir wasn't supposed to be with them because he could get hurt or get them hurt, he's just so fucking complex and [braincell explodes] I can't even put it into words

This is just how I see them, someone else might have a COMPLETELY different look at them, but GAAADDD DAAMMMMMMNNNM I need to write this out or like, draw it idk, I need opinions on this pleeeeeassseee tell me what you think I BEG!!!!!

[master-of-the-elements]

Thursday Bangers

Thanks for the tag @thedissonantverses and @woundedsoul12

Rules for your Copy and Paste: Free form a blurb or drawing based on the weekly lyrics prompt. It doesn't have to include the prompt just whatever you're inspired to write, write it! Then tag some friends so they can play as well. It doesn't have to be finished on Thursday just post it whenever you can (you have a whole week between Thursdays).

Lyric: I'm prepared to sacrifice my life I would gladly do it twice - Mercy by Shawn Mendes

So, I haven’t done the writing that sets up this scene nor have I gotten this point in the story I’m writing, but it’s a scene that’s been in my head while writing it. As I’ve stated, the story is essentially about Davrin meeting Amir’s family and their reaction to it (plus a little more). In this scene, Rook/Amir’s brother introduces himself to Davrin when Rook isn’t around. This would be the latter half/ending part of the scene.

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

“So, you’re a Grey Warden and monster hunter? Well, that’s not good.” Lucius shook his head and stepped closer to the elf.

Davrin was confused. Both occupations usually garnered him some respect in one form or another. Why would he, a soldier himself, not approve of it?

“How so? Your father didn’t seem to have any objections.” Davrin hoped to both quell his disappointment and gain understanding from his statement.

“My father may respect you but even he would give validity to I’m what about to say.” He said flatly and then crossed his arm behind his back.

“Say it then.” Davrin replied.

“Wardens nor monster hunters are necessarily known for their stability nor are they known for their fidelity. Amir deserves both!” He frowned his brows and looked the bigger man in the eye.

“I only have for eyes for him, and I can assure you I can and have been taking care of him since the day we’ve met.” Davrin didn’t flinch and stared right back.

He shrugged and sneered before retorting “I’m sure you have.” Though verbal jab was drenched in sarcasm, Davrin wanted to make sure he was clear.

“That’s not what I meant! Rook and I have planned a future together.”

“Seriously? You’re feeding him that drivel! I’m a soldier myself! I know what lies we tell our lovers. You don’t even call him by his given name.” He rolled his eyes dismissively and turn to walk away, but Davrin grabbed his collar and forced him look at him.

“I love Amir! I would follow him all over Thedas if he asked! To the moon even!” The warden made sure to keep eye contact as he could see Lucius was in shock.

“I’m willing to do anything to make sure he’s safe! Die even! Twice, if necessary.” His face had gone from shock to relaxed and Davrin could tell he’d conveyed his intentions. Would it be enough for him to approve?

“And there it is.” Lucius now wore a smirk on his face and the elf raised an eyebrow in confusion.

“That’s the other thing you wardens and hunters are known for. Dying.” Davrin’s eyes widened and then glared in anger.

“My brother deserves someone who’s willing to live for him. To grow old with. Can you assure that, warden?” Lucius asked smugly.

“Of course! We’ve made plans to settle down and- “

 “So, you’ve found a cure for your… predicament?”

Davrin finally flinched. How did he know about the Calling? Who told him?

“Amir’s not the only one with warden friends.” The young man said with a smirk.

 The warden gnashed his teeth in frustration.

Purposely, Lucius asked questions he already knew the answer to.

“Well, did you find one? Oh! Perhaps, you already taken it?”

The warrior had no response.

“Just as I thought.” The young man removed the warden's hands from his collar and proceeded to throw one last verbal jab.

“My brother has already mourned a young lover. You should consider if you want to put him through that again.”

As Davrin looked at him in total shock, Lucius knew he'd completely caught him off guard.

“Oh? You didn’t know? Pity.” Lucius turned around and strutted to the door.

He gave one final glare and left the room.

All Davrin could do was sit on the bed and process everything that was said.

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

It still needs polishing and it will probably take 2 or 3 chapters before I get there, but when I read the lyric this is what came to mind.

Very soft tags for @thatgaymerguyb, @ryoskuna, @megaeratheefury, @covertleathers and anyone else who wants to participate.

[blackcoldcrackedheart]

Part 2 over here

The rest of the story in where Tommy fosters Daniel, Buck's bio kid, under the cut.

Tommy didn’t immediately go back to the house after seeing Daniel. The first thing he had to go through was making sure all his documents were in order for the emergency foster placement to be approved and, fortunately, he had to go through background checks for his job. The only thing that needed to be checked off was his home.

“Tommy, this is Dedrie.” Claudia introduced him to an older Black woman with a polite smile wearing a dark green and black suit. “She’s with DCFS and a great social worker.”

Amir, who was watching all of this with a knowing smile, interjected in. “She comes highly recommended. She helped a friend of mine who also had to go through getting an emergency placement for their friend’s foster kid.” He patted Tommy’s back in support, “You’re in good hands.”

Tommy felt the vice around his heart give a little, everyone seemed so confident in him.

It felt a little off putting.

But this wasn’t about him.

This was about Daniel. Who was still nestled in Tommy’s arms, his little head resting on Tommy’s shoulder.

“Shall we head out then?” Dedrie asked, “I’m sure you and Daniel are excited to get home?”

Tommy sighed happily, “Yes, I’m sure this little guy would love to meet Hondo.” He cooed at the little toddler when he asked, “Would you want to meet my corgi puppy?”

Daniel, who was lightly dozing off, looked alert at the mention of a puppy. “You have puppy?” he asked, “I wanna meet puppy!”

The adults around him laughed, “A puppy! That’s so exciting Danny!” Claudia teased, not surprised that Daniel turned his head away from her- the little boy was getting restless around so many people since he had arrived at the hospital.

Tommy was seriously relieved that his team had agreed to not stay.

Before they could head out, Tommy asked Amir and Claudia about Daniel’s parents. “Still no change.” Amir told him disappointedly with a heavy sigh, “At this point both families have been told about their state, only time will tell.”

Claudia didn’t have much of answer for him regarding Daniel’s extended family taking him long term. “They haven’t changed their minds, unfortunately. I’m sure Dedrie will keep you posted since once he’s discharged his case will go to DCFS until there’s a decision.” She gave him a hopeful look. “No pressure, of course.”

No pressure indeed.

-

Dedrie seemed impressed with the home so far, she had nothing negative to say or flag when she looked around Daniel’s room. Especially since Daniel lit up and squealed “Bluey!” excitedly, pointing to the rug and the bedsheets. He wiggled in Tommy’s hold, signaling that he wanted to be put down. Tommy did so gingerly, reminding him to be careful since Daniel’s leg was still in a cast.

“He seems like a rambunctious 2 years old when he’s with you.” Dedrie complimented him as they watched Daniel pull himself onto the bed and start playing with all the stuff animals (of course Ashara had to buy a stuffed Bluey and 2 teddy bears wearing a flight suit and a firefighter turnout). “He didn’t seem so responsive when I first came into his room to speak to him.” She noted, her voice hinting at some concerns. She pulled her notebook close to her chest, “He seems very safe with you. I was very surprised when I saw that he was talking with you.”

“He wasn’t talking at the hospital?”

Dedrie shook her head, “No, he was very scared. Which is more than understandable after what he went through.” She looked at Tommy with an impressive look, “You saved him.”

Tommy rubbed the back of his neck nervously, “Part of the job, y’know?” He didn’t know what else he could say, it wasn’t like he had managed to save Daniel’s parents.

“Saving him is part of the job,” She motioned her hands towards Daniel and his room, “Taking him in isn’t, Mr. Kinard.”

Tommy faltered at that, unsure what he could say. He never saw himself as anyone’s father. An uncle? Sure. But a father? An actual dad? It felt so out there. The only time he even entertained the idea of having kids was when he was with…

No.

Tommy cleared his throat, his stomach twisting as he replied weakly with “Yeah, I know. Guess I didn’t think about it that way.” He tried to smile but Dedrie gave him a look that seemed to convey she had picked-up on him being uncomfortable about being complimented.

“Mr. Kinard-”

“Tommy.” He corrected her, “I feel like we’re probably gonna see a lot of each other, right?”

Dedrie nodded, chuckling as she agreed. “Tommy then.” She looked over at Daniel, who seemed to be enamored by the teddy bears now. “Might I ask why you decided to take in Daniel?” Tommy felt his mind go blank momentarily as she continued, “The medical social workers seemed to be unsure but relieved that you stepped up. I’m just curious?”

Tommy nodded wordlessly at that, he leaned against the door frame and just looked at Daniel. “I-I don’t know, it just felt right? Something in my gut was just telling me to do it. I’ve been a firefighter for almost 20 years now and I’ve seen kids go through things that no kid should have to go through, but I was always able to do my job, process the emotions later.” He caught Daniel playing with the stuffed animals, making the firefighter and pilot bear save Bluey from the stuffed dragon animal and laughed, the nerves he had felt dissipated. “Till now. I saw him and I couldn’t let go. Felt like he needed me.” He felt his eyes sting, he kept having to remind himself that this was probably temporary, like most things in life.

Daniel’s parents could get better.

His family could change their minds and take him in.

Anything.

He cleared his throat, realizing how washy and nonsensical he sounded. “Guess that’s not really a good reason.” He murmured more to himself than at Dedrie.

The older woman didn’t seem to mind his answer, she seemed to be pleased if Tommy wasn’t mistaken. “I don’t about that.” She hummed, “Sounds like a good reason to open your home and heart to a kid who really does need someone right now.”

After signing documents and getting a full rundown of what was to be expected as a foster parent (meetings, keeping Dedrie up to date with appointments, etc), Dedrie wished him luck for his first night with Daniel and informed him she would see them again soon.

Now it was just the two of them (three, if you included Hondo the corgi, who now seemed to be Daniel’s dog in the span of a few hours).

Tommy had figured that since Daniel was a toddler, that he would be a picky-eater. Nope, the kid had an appetite. “You like mac and cheese, huh kiddo?” Tommy asked as he got another plate (Bluey themed, again.) for the kid. Daniel seemed to really love veggies too, eating spinach and broccoli that Tommy had gotten for him with no problems.

“Yesh!” Daniel answered excitedly, his eyes all sparkly as he looked up at Tommy. “It’s yummy!”

“It is yummy.” Tommy agreed, “What else do you like? Do you like pizza?”

“Yesh!”

“Hmm, I bet you don’t like cookies though?”

“I like cookies, Tummy!”

Tommy laughed, Daniel’s scrunchy face was too adorable. “Okay, but I don’t think you like chocolate chip cookies though.”

“I like chocochip cookies.”

Tommy feigned playful excitement, smushing his own hands against his cheeks that gotten a laugh from Daniel. “You like chocolate chip cookies too?”

“Yesh!” Daniel laughed, eating another bite of the mac n cheese happily.

“Atta boy.” He lifted his hand up in front of Daniel, “Can I get a high-five?”

Daniel gently slapped his hand against Tommy’s, “Fist bump?” Tommy asked, laughing as Daniel gave him a high five instead. “We’ll work on that.” He noted as he continued to eat his dinner with Daniel.

It wasn’t easy to admit out loud, but he missed having someone else at home. The house had been quiet since…then.

But Tommy felt relieved, he was enjoying cuddling up with Daniel and Hondo on the couch to watch Coco. Laughing silently as Daniel tried to sing a long and getting half the words right or garbled in his adorable two-year-old way. The kid even got Tommy to sing along.

When it started to get late, Tommy decided to call it a night since Daniel was dozing off again. He gently picked up the kid who whined about not being sleepy yet, “I know.” Tommy assured him, rubbing Daniel’s back and betting that Daniel would fall sleep as soon as his head hit the pillow.

Another thing he wouldn’t admit was that he sort of had this weird sort of jealous feeling towards his brother-in-law and nephew’s relationship. Chet was an amazing dad and Tommy had seen the way his brother-in-law treated his nephew, Tommy had felt happy but down that he never got a dad or even a father figure like Chet and a part of him had always believed he would never be a dad. It was those small moments in where he saw Chet and his nephew, or Eddie and Christ, or Bobby and Bu-

“I don’t wanna bwush.” Daniel whined sleepily as Tommy let him stand on the stool (another thing Ashara had bought him for his bathroom even though Daniel had his own bathroom), the kid was basically leaning against Tommy. His tiny arms wrapped around Tommy’s leg, Tommy snickered. “I know, kiddo. But we gotta brush our teeth every night and morning, okay?” he got out the new (Bluey again?!) toothbrush and was ready to pass it over to Daniel but he noticed the little boy had began to doze off again. Tommy tried to suppress his giggle, picking up the little boy in his arms, “Okay, c’mon bud.” He patted the little boy on the back, “I think we can survive one night without brushing your teeth, just this one time, got it?” he asked, knowing that the toddler was gone to the world.

Tommy felt his heart stutter and crash as he felt Daniel wrap his arms around his neck, snuffling against his neck as he got comfortable.

‘Bobby once told me that having a kid was like having your heart walk outside your chest…’

They-

He had mentioned children once…

Tommy took a shuddering breath in and then out.

His priority was on Daniel.

Not on his own stupid heart.

He tucked Daniel in, not even a bit surprised that Hondo had opted to sleep at the foot of the bed. “Really, you like him over me already?” Tommy asked the corgi playfully, scratching the pup behind the ear. “Can’t blame you.” He decided.

He watched over Daniel for a moment, making sure the kid was okay before he left the room, opting to leave the door open since he wanted to make sure Daniel would be okay during his first night.

Tommy was surprised that Daniel was taking everything well so far.

-

Tommy opened his eyes.

He wasn’t sure that he had heard it at first, thinking it was an auditory hallucination from a dream he couldn’t recall.

But he heard it again.

Sniffling and soft cries.

In an instant he was up and out of bed, walking quickly to Daniel’s room and turning on the light.

Daniel was still in bed, hugging the firefighter teddy bear tightly as tears fell. His face and eyes blotchy and red as continued to cry. “I wan mommy and daddy.”

“Oh bud.” Tommy picked him up,d not minding that Daniel’s snot, tears, and spit would get all over his t-shirt. “I know, I know you do.” He pressed a quick kiss on the toddler’s forehead as he let Daniel cry it out, rubbing his back soothingly.  

“I wan-I wan mommmmy.” Daniel cried harder, “I wan mommy.”

This was breaking his heart in so many pieces that Tommy knew it was pointless to stop his own tears from cascading down his cheeks. He had seen kids lose their parents, their entire families really.

And it never ever got easy for him to witness it all.

He knew the kids who had survived from that sort of trauma just couldn’t “shake it off”. Hell, thirty years later and Tommy still wasn’t over his own mother dying.

Being there for Daniel, being a constant for him was just the tip of the iceberg of what Tommy needed to do for Daniel’s sake.

After watching two episodes of Bluey, singing (roughly), and getting him a warm glass of milk, Daniel was still crying.

Tommy had an idea. It was a long shot, but it always helped him.

He opened his patio door, it was something they had done when they used to stay the night at his place.

-

“You like looking at stars too?” Evan asked, surprised when Tommy confessed that the upside of flying at night was catching glimpses of the stars.

“Always did.” Tommy admitted, trying and failing to sound nonchalant but Evan’s bright smile had him smiling as well. He scooted closer to the younger man, preening as he felt Evan scoot closer as well.

“I always loved looking at the stars, something about them. It-it’s just calming, y’know?”  Evan pointed to the night sky, a smirk on his face as he asked Tommy, “Bet you don’t know which constellation that one is.”

-

Tommy laid back on the patio sofa, sitting Daniel on top of him, mindful of the cast as Hondo jumped right next to them.

“Hey Daniel.” He pointed up, wondering and hoping this would work. “You see the stars, bud?”

Daniel was still crying but nodded, “Do you see that one?”

“Yesh.” Daniel sniffed, rubbing at his snotty nose as he looked up. Tommy brushed away the tears again.

“That’s Ursa Minor, the little bear.” Tommy took Daniel’s hand gently in his and pointed to the sky. “Can you say little bear?”

“Wittle bware.”

Tommy laughed as he stuck out his fist for a fist bump, not surprised at all when Daniel gave him a high-five again.

“What about that one? Do you know what that one is?”

“Yesh.”

-

Tommy slowly opened his eyes, first registering the weight on his chest and legs, and then the dull ache in his neck.

'So the patio sofa wasn't comfy enough to sleep on, noted.' He thought miserably, already anticipating the soreness and aches he would have once he stood up.

He heard a click- the sound of a phone's camera clicking.

"Morning wolfy." Lucy's smile was wide and adoring as she took another picture.

Tommy was careful not to jostle the still sleeping Daniel on his chest and the sleepy Hondo on his leg (of course his damn corgi slept on top of his leg and not in his own bed Tommy had bought for him). "What are you doing here? What time is it?" The overcast made it difficult to tell if it was still morning, but Tommy wouldn't be surprised if he had managed to sleep past 9 after last night.

"I'm here because I was in charge of coffee, bought you a cup from Dinosaurs. The others are making breakfast."

Now Tommy was awake. He planted his feet on the ground, ignoring Hondo's whining for Daniel's fussing over having to be adjusted from where he was sleeping. "The others?"

Lucy cocked her head towards the house, "Yes, you thought we would leave you alone for your first morning with Danny boy there?" She asked, all smiles as she tickled Daniel's arm and got a sleepy smile from the toddler. “Clearly you need the reinforcement if you spent your first night out here.”

Tommy huffed, only mildly annoyed as he followed Lucy back into his house. “It actually went pretty well.” He hitched Daniel up higher, “Just little buddy here started missing his parents and nothing seemed to work, so I took him outside to watch the stars.”

“And that worked?”

Tommy shrugged, “Worked well enough that he fell asleep again.” He took a deep inhale of the sweet and salty aroma coming from his kitchen, finding Melton and Ashara already in the middle of cooking some fancy looking omelet, bacon, something that looked like a stiffer version of crepes, and of course- more coffee in his coffee pot.

Tommy didn’t know what to say as he saw his teammates get comfortable in his kitchen, “You guys didn’t have to do this.”

Melton was the first to respond, first with a scoff and then with a “I think the word you’re looking for is “Good morning, this smells great!””

Tommy gave his teammate a sheepish “Sorry”, getting a smack on the shoulder from Lucy, “It really does smell great.” He tried again.

“We know.” Ashara grinned, “Morning Danny.” The little boy gave her a shy wave, lightening the mood in the kitchen for a bit. Ashara pointed to the rooms down the hall, “You two wash up, breakfast should be ready in a bit.”

Tommy and Daniel washed up, it was cute to see Daniel mimic him. Looking up at Tommy for approval as Daniel brushed his teeth and wash his face. “Look at you look all bright eyed now.” Tommy teased, “You ready? Let’s go change out of these pjs.”

“Ready!” Daniel squealed excitedly, “Up pease.” He lifted his arms up, making little grabby hands as Tommy picked him up and “flew” Daniel (plane noises and all) to his room to change.

“Oh that is adorable!” Lucy clapped her hands as the Tommy and Daniel came into the kitchen wearing matching gray hoodies and jeans.

“He looked too cool so I just had to dress so I looked just as cool, right bud?” Tommy asked, poking Daniel in the cheek and getting an excited squeal back.

“So we got French toast sticks and scrambled eggs for Danny boy there.” Melton informed Tommy, pointing to the small plate of food and orange juice set aside for the toddler. “All kid approved food.”

Tommy eyed the meal as he got Daniel into his high chair, “Uh, I don’t know. Kid isn’t a picky eater. I’m sure he would inhale the omelet and those fried crepes.”

“Muqalab.” Ashara corrected, icily setting down a jar of honey next to said plate of muqalab.

“A non-picky 2 years old?” Lucy asked incredulously, eyeing Daniel playfully. “I’m not sure about that.” She pretended to scowl at the little boy, “You gonna be a big kid and eat an omelet?”

“Yesh!”

Tommy watched Lucy, Melton, and Ashara laugh at Daniel’s excitement. As the three got their plates ready, a weird heavy feeling began to set in Tommy’s stomach.

This felt like a family.

He was close to his team, but never this close.

Never “Let’s have breakfast at each other’s houses” close, it felt jarring.

He only had this in small doses, mainly with-

“Crap.” He quickly got up and ran to get his phone, answering the others’ concerning question of “What’s wrong?” with “I forgot I texted my sister last night!” He picked up his phone from the nightstand to see multiple missed calls and texts from his sister.

‘You little twerp! Answer your phone!’ was the last call he got from his sister, at 6 am.

Oh, he was a dead man.

Grant it, Sarah was only four years older than him and a whole eight inches shorter than him.

But she could still terrify him.

He called her back but only got her voice mail.

Maybe she was pissed?

He left a quick message, noting what happened with Daniel over night and that he was sorry that he had sprung the news about him being a foster dad on her so quick. “Love you, tell Chet and the kids I miss them.” He hung up, rubbing his face as headed back to the kitchen.

“You good?” Melton asked at the same time that Daniel went “Hi Tummy!”, the toddler was happily munching away on a piece of honey covered muqalab.

“Yeah,” Tommy replied, sitting down to the empty chair closest to Danniel’s highchair. “Hey kiddo.” Tommy happily accepted a piece of muqalab from Daniel. Melton patted him on the back, Ashara was trying to steal away a piece of strawberry from Daniel’s plate, much to Daniel’s chagrin, and Lucy was happily sipping her cup of coffee.

So…

This was what “Found Family” meant?

It was nice.

[wingsofhcpe]

911 characters & their D&D classes

(what they'd play as in a campaign, or what they'd be in a d&d au. your pick really).

just a lil sth to soothe the heart as we continue to ignore/rage over/cry about Thursday's shitshow of an episode

athena: bloodhunter- at first i was gonna keep to only base classes and assign her fighter but you know what, bloodhunter is way more badass and awesome and I think it gives her an additional flair for the dramatic. Plus the way she went after the serial rapist and then Amir? Peak bloodhunter behaviour.

bobby: paladin- by the grace of God you are catching this giant-ass sword in the face. Also heals in a pinch, but he's more on the physical side of paladin than the spell side.

buck: paladin- just like dad, but also he may go overboard with the spellcasting.

chimney: bard- heals and cheers up the team... or at least annoys and/or amuses them enough to keep 'em going!

eddie: rogue- more in the dexterity and firepower sense than the sneaky stealthy sense, though.

hen: sorcerer- has studied hard to learn all these damn spells and by heavens is she gonna make sure they hit the mark.

josh: cleric- has the best and strongest healing spells around, has taught Maddie.

karen: wizard- extremely clever, has composed half of the spells in her list all on her own.

maddie: cleric- awesome healing spells aside, she's also the kinda cleric to cast spiritual weapon and absolutely obliterate the target when she's pissed.

tommy: ranger- prime aiming skills, good athletics and... strange affinity for small domesticated mammals?

bonus round- the kids!

Christopher as a wizard-in-training- Sometimes Eddie takes him to Karen, and he's proven scarily good at learning some of her more simple custom spells.

Denny as a ranger-in-training- he really loves animals and adventures such as climbing trees, probably gives his mums a scare every time but he's very good at it!

Harry as a warlock-in-training- his mama does not approve of the whole "pact with a mysterious entity" thing but hey, if it works, it ain't stupid... (his patron is probably something unthreatening and on the neutral-to-good side of alignment, but good luck getting Athena to settle for it).

Mara as a rogue-in-training- she loves to stealthily sneak around and prank Hen as soon as she warms up to the family! She can never sneak up on Karen though, she always seems to just know Mara is there.

May as a paladin-in-training- at first she wanted to go for cleric under Maddie's tutelage, but in the end she decided on a more hands-on approach and started to train with Buck and Bobby.

[webanglikethat]

Hello dear, I am Mohammed from Gaza. I hope you are well, dear. Please help me. Our tent was flooded while we were sleeping in the streets. We have no shelter. I cannot provide winter clothes for me and my mother to protect us from the cold that has started, and I cannot provide for the basic needs. Please help me. $50 is enough to buy a new tent and winter clothes. Please help me, dear. We live in very harsh conditions. We lost our father before the war and I support my elderly mother and my little siblings. I am in dire need of your donation. You are very aware, even if it is a little. I hope you can help me, dear. Dear, please do not let me down. We deserve life and we deserve your generosity and kindness. You are our lifeline, and with your generosity you give us life, even if it is a little, but you save us from injustice and the cursed war. It is our right and our basic right to live with some comfort and peace. Please do not ignore me. If you cannot help me, that is okay, but do not ignore me. Tell me you can't.

https://gofund.me/2fb33769

Hi!🙏

Even though I’m not in a position to donate at the moment, I’m here to amplify your voice. I truly hope that your story finds those who can offer meaningful support, whether through donations, sharing, or words of encouragement.

To everyone reading this: now is the time for collective compassion. Every small act of kindness matters, whether it’s a donation, a share, or simply a moment of empathy for what this family is going through. If you’re able to, please consider contributing or passing this message along. Together, even the smallest efforts can create waves of change for someone in need!

To you and your family, I want to extend my deepest hope for brighter days ahead. I hope you find solace in knowing that people are rallying behind you, that your bravery inspires others to step forward and help. I’m keeping you and your family in my thoughts. I’m wishing you peace, safety, and the strength to face what lies ahead with the same courage you’ve already shown. Opening a place to help others, even with limited resources, is such a selfless thing to do.

Sending all my love, strength, and compassion to you during this time. May your path ahead be filled with light, kindness, and the help you need to overcome these challenges.

Here’s the link again for anyone willing to assist:

[karuframe]

Hi hello how are you just found you o ao3 and then realise youre here on tumblrdotcom and THEN i see we both have quincy/arthur brainrot good good good

HAVE YOU SEEN THE LATEST KIM REVEALS ABOUT HOW QUINCY FOLLOWED ARTHUR FROM THE ARMY TO ICR AND THEN INTO FRAMES ALL CUZ ARTHUR SAVED HIS ASS AND NOW "i owe him forever" THE COMPLEXITIES OF THESE TWO, MAN, LIKE ARTHUR WHO WONT SPEAK OF HIS OWN ISH AND QUINCY WHOS LIKE WHAT ISH I AINT GOT ISH YOU THE ISH FAM

AHEM I MEAN IM NORMAL ABOUT THIS

(Also going anon cuz slightly shy about how unhinged this ask became ajdjkd anyways thank you for the quincy love <3)

haha definitely don't be shy about this ask, I love your energy! My brainworms regarding the Hex change all the time, it's insane how much joy and inspiration I can draw out of those little words appearing on my screen every 24 hours (on top of me actively seeking out other people's chats oops). They give us so much little side food that almost every shipper has something and I LOVE that. Eleanor/Aoi, Quincy/Amir, Lettie/Aoi, Amir/Aoi, Quincy/Arthur are the ones I so far saw some canonical interactions about and they are all so good!! I so so wish I got to draw an official comic about their beginnings rather than a random mission 😭or that I knew all this (with references too) before I got to work on the comic, I feel like I could have done so much better even with the limitations of what I was allowed to do. little background moments, different gazes, different poses...But that's okay, because I still have art and can always portray these little moments for the community ♥ As for Arthur/Quincy it at first started quite visual, them both being rugged hunks that have issues with each other (one mouthy about it, one not very aware there's issues about it cause his headspace is elsewhere lol) but there were few reveals later down the line that solidified this choice into more than just visuals and it makes me so happy I get to explore more of them! I'd love them to be right-hand men for each other at the end of their character growth (in canon) and teammates with benefits in fanon of course 🫡 Also while Quincy used to be my favorite little guy, Arthur grew on me so quick, I'm now using any little portion of time i have (while not drawing or playing games or touching grass with family) to write pwp arthur-centric smut with the hex, viktor and mostly quincy/arthur 😭i'm here to provide good art and writing cringe but boi am I free while doing it!! (also if you care, I want to stream the "true ending" for the Hex some day soon+play some more of it, and I like talking ships and other fandom stuff in every game I stream on twitch (/tbgkaru) as I don't often encounter people like that and wanted to share that space with my fandom brethren. so if you'd like to hang out and talk some more, here is always good, but we can also goof on stream :) )

[marzipanlvr]

Magnus chase is so babygirl 😭❤️ bless his soul (spoilers ahead :)

(a few) instances Magnus chase is Magnus chasing:

The first thing he did when he met his dad was bear hug him

Chose healing others over saving himself

So supportive of Samirah and Amir

Quote and quote: “I wish I could round up every homeless person in Boston and say, Hey, there’s a big mansion right over here with thousands of comfy quotes and free food forever. Follow me!

he’s more natalie chase than he thinks

never ever stops caring :((

when uncle Randolph was being a bitch and all Magnus still considered what Randolph has been through to its highest extent

He really does his best to understand the world around him like he did with Alex and Samirah

Magnus and Hearth. That’s it. The time hearth called Magnus “brother” and it came to fruition how much it meant for hearth to say that to Magnus.

bro how he treats family should he exhibited in a museum. him and annabeth are the cutest magnus is so sweet

This MAN istg is a precious godsent rarity I HOPE HE DIESNT DIE (I mean I hope he doesn’t die AGAIN)

random quirk I like about Magnus I audibly gasped when he mentioned he liked to read and his valhalla suite has a library 😭❤️ weird way to propose but yes!!

Weird take but I feel like he smells like summer and he gives the best hugs ever

Btw I’m not finished with Magnus chase yet :)) don’t spoil please!!

I LOVE this fandom so much I love how everyone is so kind and helpful I literally love being here especially with how people interacted with my last post <33 Hope u all had a great day :)) I’m sorry if you didn’t, but there will be better days to come!!

[purplesimmer455]

Later that day, Piper's moms Luna and Chrissy, nano* Maya, Auntie Tess, and cousin Emily come over to the apartment to see her and Cam. I have been aging up Luna, Chrissy, and Maya (and accidentally forgot about Tess 😳), and they all look so beautiful. Maya is an elder now but still has her long, curly blonde hair. Plus, I've aged her wife Kaitlyn, a vampire sim, to an adult to make their physical age difference less stark. Chrissy, I gave some crow's feet details, along with her gorgeous gray-blue eyes, which give her a wise look. Also, I gave Luna the graying black hair swatch. I feel like she'd want to dye her grays less, and it looks so dignified and gorgeous on her. 😊 Back to the story: 

After a round of greetings and hugs, Tess sits with Luna on the couch. "Lu, I think I'm starting to really like Tammy, and I want to take the next step with her," She says shyly, and Luna grins. "Aww, Tessie, I love how happy she makes you. And if by next step, you mean woohoo, that's great but I don't need any more information. I practically grew up at Uncle Salim and Aunt Miko's house, and Tammy's like a baby sister to me." She adds, raising a brow at Tess, who shakes her head and blushes. "No, no, not woohoo. I meant asking her to be my girlfriend, and having her meet Emmy and eventually Saf and Amir." She says softly, and Luna's amber eyes fill with tears. "Tess, you're gonna make me cry." She says, and Tess grins and puts an arm around Luna. "I'm happy for you guys. You've been so sad since you and Megs split, but ever since you started seeing Tammy, you're so lit up and glowy and smiley." Luna says, and Tess nods, feeling a lump in her own throat. "Yeah, Tammy makes me happier than I've been in a long time. It's too soon to talk about marriage but sometimes I kinda daydream about being married to her." She says, and Luna tackles her in a bear hug. 

Edit: Luna's mom Kaitlyn and mamma Maya are best friends with Miko and Salim Ojo-Benali. The two families would always come over to each other's houses, and Miko and Salim are Luna's godparents while Kaitlyn and Maya are the godmoms of the Ojo-Benali's two kids Eli and Tammy (Kaitlyn, Maya, and Miko’s other friend Penny Pizzazz is godmother to Evie and Hugo). Luna's closer in age to Evie and Hugo, but she and her other cousin Laurel, as well as her friend Chrissy would include Tammy in their games and such. 

This is a post from a long time ago, and Tammy is the toddler in the blue shirt being hugged by the toddler in the blue and yellow bee jumpsuit, her friend Yaritza/Luna's baby cousin Yaritza, who isn't a baby anymore but will always be to Luna. 😄