#gonna convince my mom to come see it again with me so we can boost ticket sales

[sunsetzer]

Cross posted from Twitter (I'm not calling it X) because I don't have the patience to type all of this out again but. Thoughts on Transformers One. It alarmed me when Charlie said it wasn't doing well in the box office. I really hope more people go see it, I couldn't handle not getting a sequel after the way it was left off. Please please please if you can and you're even slightly intrigued go see it even if you don't like kids films it is not a kids film this film is very much catered to older fans and people who grew up with the franchise, it's especially G1 and TFP influenced but you don't have to know anything about transformers at all to get into this movie. That's the beautiful thing about this IP- there is no one continuous lore, there's multiple continuities with their own lore and sometimes there's overlap in recurring themes and characters but they're very Different from one another. Transformers might actually be the most beginner friendly franchise of all time to get into because of that. I just think that's really neat.

[zerolune]

₊❏❜ ⋮ ⌒ Chapter 6 - horrors of the night

: ̗̀➛ Pairing : Anton × OC

Synopsis: When Seunghan, Wonmee, Anton and Gwen go for a movie, the horror movie isn't the only horror they face.

Warnings : swearing, a jerk guy.

Next, Masterlist

"Oh seriously cmon!! It's the last day of our promotions! It'll be fun!!" Wonmee exclaimed, encouraging Eunryung. "No way in hell am I paying to get heart attacks." The elder refused. "Please it isn't fun with just two people!" Wonmee urged once again.

"Yes, researches have proven that watching films with more people provides a better experience due to the adrenaline boost from the movie being balanced out by the endorphins released due to the presence of your friends." Gwen spoke almost robotically, explaining why Eunryung should join them.

"Wow-uh- you're not wrong now- but! Why me though? Why not Yuri or Miyoung?" Eunryung asked, diverting the target. "Miyoung is going for samgyeopsal with her siblings and Yuri has to choreograph for Taemin Sunbaenim." Gwen said again, very mechanically.

"What are you guys talking about?" Sungchan asked as the boys entered the practice room, pretty late. "We are trying to convince Eunryung to see the new Nun movie with us, on the last day of our promotions, would any of you like to join?" Wonmee offered.

"Horror no way, I'm out!" Wonbin and Sungchan explicitly stated. "Hmm sorry I have plans," Shotaro said. "Oh I can come! I love horror!" Seunghan said. "And based on the timings, I'm free!" Seunghan checked his phone for the show timings on some app.

"Great! So, you, me, Gwen and anyone else?" Wonmee looked around. "I have something with my family that night so probably not," Sohee pouted. "I have a meet up with friends," Eunseok said, checking some kind of calendar-schedule.

"Ah well, that's okay, three people should be fine," Seunghan grinned, going over to discuss the timings with the other two. Anton on the other hand, looked around, of course his hyungs knew that he hated anything to do with horror, and maybe the girls forgot about him (sorry Anton), but if Gwen was going- this was his chance.

"Oh I can go! It'll be great to see a horror movie!" He finally spoke up, his hyungs looking at him judgementally. Seunghan was about to say, "But don't you-" before he looked over to Gwen and a light bulb lit in his head. "Alright so four of us! Great!" The boy began walking over to Sungchan who was about to say something and immediately whispered to him, "Hyung, let the lover boy follow his heart-even if it stops during the movie." He then made Sungchan look towards Gwen.

"Ohh, I see," He laughed.

-

"Alright, soldiers, listen up, 9:30's the movie, so they gotta leave by 9:10, we have to make sure Anton looks his best, in precisely 58 minutes- we would have had a whole hour if Anton didn't argue that he was going to a HORROR movie just because he loves Gwen."

"For the last time-"

"Shut up Loverboy! Soldiers Let's get to work!" Shotaro began parading around, as the boys carried a 6 feet tall boy across the dorm. "Listen you are no way in hell wearing that ugly ass hoodie, wear this denim jacket or lose the love of your life." Wonbin began.

"And we gotta do something with your hair cuz you remind me of when my mom used to cut my hair," Eunseok began ruffling the boy's hair.

Finally they dressed him up-giving him an early 2000's teen movie makeover-not that he needed one. "Now, I know it's gonna be scary, and you will want to die, but under no circumstances will you call for your eomma, we can't let her think you have mommy issues." Shotaro gave the first advice.

"Instead, ask if you can hold hands, just make sure they aren't sweaty," Seunghan said. "What if she says no?"

"Then change your name to Amanda Williams, move to Switzerland and never return- also get a buzz cut just in case." Wonbin advised.

"But relax, she isn't like that, she's a caring person okay, she'll know if you're scared besides she helped you with your bullies, she'll help you with ghosts too, don't worry." Sungchan assured.

"How can you say that for sure though?" Eunseok raised a brow. "Because- I don't know man she feels like my sister, we have been talking quite a lot lately and it literally feels liek we're siblings," Sungchan explained.

"As long as you don't commit sweet home Alabama, Anton shouldn't feel jealous, right?" Wonbin looked towards the boy who rolled his eyes at Sungchan. "Ah don't worry Anton, I wouldn't ever think that way... but now that I think about it..." Sungchan took a dramatic pause. "Why am I helping a boy become my sister's boyfriend?!?"

"You better not do anything suspicious," He suddenly warned Anton as him and Seunghan began moving out the home. "It'd be a blessing if he could even talk to her without stuttering, you shouldn't be worried at all," Eunseok teased. "Hyung!" They heard Anton protest before the door closed.

-

"Oh Seunghan! You're here, where's Anton?" Wonmee asked as they stood near the snacks counter. "Oh he'll be here any moment," Seunghan smiled.

Anton suddenly appeared out of nowhere, dramatically walking in, making eye contact with Gwen- who was-why was she looking at her phone- goddammit the dramatic entry they planned was useless.

"Oh Hi Anton!" Gwen looked up, shooting a smile. "H-Hey!" Anton tried to look cool. "What's wrong with you today?" Gwen laughed. "Okay, so who's getting the popcorn?"

"Me and Wonmee will take care of it, you both go!" Seunghan quickly ushered the younger two towards the movie hall, a plan being plotted in his mind.

-

"Ah so I see, Anton does like her! But you know I think Gwen likes him too," Wonmee said as her and the boy were walking back to the theatre with popcorn and drinks in their hands.

"Wait really? But she person-zoned him right?" Seunghan tilted his head. "Bold of you to assume a girl would tell her feelings straight! Why are you so oblivious, don't you have a girlfriend?"

"Oh well my ex yea, she cheated on me," Seunghan sighed. "You got cheated on? You? No way-"

"Get this, with my best friend," he revealed as Wonmee couldn't believe her ears. "That's well- uh- I don't know what to say, how do you feel?"

"I guess it's just life, stuff works like that," he sighed yet again, opening the door and holding it open. "I mean it shouldn't, like you're probably the hottest guy in our group?? Maybe the hottest person I've ever seen? And not only that, you're a gentleman, you're everything? How could they?"

"Woah woah, did you just call me hot?"

"I'm only saying the truth, besides, if you weren't hot you can't be an idol,"

"Sohee's an exception, he's cute as fuck."

"There's always an exception," she smiled, heading to their seat. "Oh look they're sitting beside each other! Our plan worked letsgo!!" Seunghan smiled.

-

Seriously what the fuck. Anton was one more jumpscare away from dying, how could anyone enjoy this? He was holding everything in him to not scream, and it was only 27 minutes until now, oh how would he even manage anymore?

Unbeknownst to him however, the girl beside him could sense the fear lingering in the boy, so almost immediately, she said. "Anton, hold my hand if you're scared, it'll be alright, it's just a movie."

She didn't give him even a second to respond as before he could say anything, his left hand had already been entwined with her left. He could feel the callous on her skin- from her playing her guitar probably, but it was still somehow soft and gentle. Like an assuring feel that nothing would happen to him.

Anton's heart still raced, but now it wasn't because of fear.

-

"Please that movie was ass," Wonmee remarked as the group was walking back to the dorm, which was quite close. "I know right, like the jumpscares were cheap as shit."

"I agree, like the cinematography should've been done better to compliment the acting for god's sake."

The three (Anton didn't speak, still reminiscing holding his crush's hand) continued to talk about the movie until they began walking past a 7/11.

"Gyuri Park? Is that you?" Gwen stopped in her tracks, turning back to look at her biggest nightmare. "Ah so it is you," a boy walked over to her, turning her around, getting ahold of her right hand.

"Minjae just leave us be."

"Ah so your hand and your voice both work well now?" He smirked still not letting go. "Let go of her you asshole." Wonmee came in front, shoving him aside.

"Oh Gyuri, you now have other friends and not just that loser boy, hot friends might I add." Minjae said checking out wonmee.

"Just shut up dude," Seunghan said in anger. "Ah you still have guy friends, guess you're still a slut huh?" Minjae only looked at Gwen, who had tears welling up in her eyes.

"Aww jagi, don't cry," he mocked, caressing her cheek. "Don't touch me, you creep," Gwen managed to shout, swatting his hand away.

"Oh feisty, guess you became like this to be more like my type right?" The bully kept laughing as his two other friends joined in, much to the four's despise.

"You know what, just fuck off." Anton pushed the boy, who was shorter than him, alas, Minjae punched him back, almost toppling him to the ground.

"Don't fucking touch him ever again, you jerk," Gwen kicked his shin before taking Anton's hand and running away.

"Guys come quick!"

-

"Gwen who was that?"

...

Taglist: @seolboba (comment if you wanna be added !!)

[skellebonez]

Hey! This is my first time doing this ! But can you wirte a scenario where in Winter's cursed AU where MK's parents try to come back and get custody again?( With prompt 14 and 45) With protective monkey dads? Have a great rest of your day! 💕

Thank you so much, I hope you like this as your first fill! It was very enjoyable to write since I had this idea months ago but never had the chance to put it down. But you’re gonna get a little more than just protective monkey dads! This is set pretty far into @winterpower98 's AU so he has a lot of people behind him.

Am I scaring you?/You may technically be an adult, but you’re still my child.

It didn’t take much guessing to figure out exactly what had made MK look like he wanted to run for the hills the second he picked up his phone. There were only a few very specific scenarios that could make him react like that now. But it was the way his face hardened and his whisper yelled into it that made Pigsy realize exactly who they were dealing with without the young man saying who it was.

Again.

“This is the third time you’ve gotten a new number for this,” he said, trying to keep his voice down. “I’ve told you already, the answer is no.”

"Tang," Pigsy whispered, nudging his favorite freeloader to get his attention better. "Go keep an eye outside. The last time they did this they showed up an hour later. If they do we're shuttering the shop early."

"On it," Tang said with a nod, standing with another nod to MK as he left.

"I am an adult, you cannot do anything to- yes I'm sure. Yes... yes, because I have a lawyer now mom!"

MK’s tone of voice made Pigsy smirk proudly. Had this been a few years ago MK would have had so much difficulty even just talking back to his parents, going quiet and shrinking into himself. Now?

He was standing up straight, speaking firmly and calmly, raising his voice a bit even. In the years Pigsy had known the young man he had changed drastically when it came to his parents. His and Tang’s attempts to raise his confidence and teach him to speak up for himself had certainly helped in that regard, but his attained abilities and strength as the Monkie Kid had no doubt given him a boost as well.

Not to mention the knowledge that not only did he have two father figures behind him... he had four (granted, Pigsy had mixed feelings for many reasons about both of them, but he’d warmed up to them when he saw how much MK had grown attached to them). Add Sandy, Mei, and Red Son to the mix?

He had a powerful group behind him to support him in whatever he needed.

"What do you mean you're already here?" MK said suddenly, drawing Pigsy's attention back from his inner thoughts.

"Whoa, hey, I said you can’t go in there!" Tang's voice suddenly rang through the entrance as someone pushed him backwards into the shop. He stumbled, almost falling flat on his rear and just barely catching himself on the counter. "You've been banned from this establishment and you know i-"

"MK," the woman who entered said as she closed her flip phone shut with a snap.

A man entered behind her, matching her in simple modern fashion. He shared MK's hair while the woman shared his eyes. It was obvious who they were to anyone seeing the three of them together.

Tang turned, shooting Pigsy a quick sorry that was met with an easy smile and a nod before the chef scowled at the two of them.

"... mom, dad," MK replied, slipping his phone into his pocket. He stood at his full height, back straight and no sign of hesitation on his face. "I told you, I'm not coming home."

"And we told you that we realized we made a mistake," his mother said, voice soft but with a softly uncertain undertone to it. Like she didn't quote believe her own words but was convincing herself otherwise. "Please, let us make it right."

"You had plenty of time to make it right all the times I tried to contact you before I became the Monkie Kid," MK said easily, practiced and firm. "Besides, I'm an adult now. You can't force me to do anything I don't want to do."

"You may technically be an adult," MK's mother said with a sigh, reaching out to grab his shoulder. "But you’re still my child."

Pigsy jumped in front of her, a sharp glare his only weapon. He knew better than to threaten these two, much like some of his more rowdy customers, but he would still put himself bodily between the young man he viewed as a son and anyone making him uncomfortable when he had the ability to do so.

"If you so much as breathe on my kid-"

"But he's not your kid now is he, pig man," MK's father sniped back, venom dripping from ever word and making the entire restaurant freeze in response.

"Excuse me," a new voice called out from behind them, a figure pressing a firm hand on his shoulder. "What were you saying to my brother?"

The reaction was instantaneous. MK’s father jumping to the side with a yelp, turning to come face to face with a less than pleasantly smiling Sun Wukong and a scowling Macaque behind him, neither bothering to keep up any semblance of a human disguise at the moment.

"I believe my student made it clear to you multiple times that he is an adult who can make his own decisions about who he wants to live with," he said coldly, moving to stand beside Pigsy with his fur raised and teeth barred in a way that could be mistaken for a smile. It certainly wasn't one if you knew anything about monkeys, though.

"Scram," Macaque chimed in, voice lower and far more threatening than anyone else in the building as he took a step forward. Though his words were fewer his tone was stronger and held just as much weight.

MK's parents took a step back in turn, stepping back into the entryway itself.

"Y-you may be his mentor," MK's mother started, her tone losing the odd uncertainty under it and gaining a frustration and confusion instead. "But I'm his mother."

"Who left him to his own devices and didn't even try to show interest in reconnecting until he made something of himself," Macaque snapped, snapping his teeth together in a warning bite as he took another step forward with a growl.

His parents stumbled back out of the shop, eyes wide and watching as MK was surrounded on either side by 4 others. Pigsy and Tang on his right, Wukong and Macaque on his left.

"Am I scaring you?" Macaque asked with a chuckle, letting out a noise of surprise when Wukong's tail touched his arm.

"I think he's got this now," Wukong said with a soft smile.

"Mom, dad," MK said with his voice still firm and sure. "I'm not coming back home with you. I'm an adult and you can't force me to come back. And if you keep trying like this I'll never give you the chance to let me chose to on my own."

The duo looked at their son, his father's eyes wide in shock and disbelief and his mother's eyes much the same with an undercurrent of... something. Something none of them could really place.

"I think we s-"

“You are not good people!" MK's dad snapped, standing up to his full height to tower over everyone else. "I caution you against this! This is your last chance to accept the damage you’ve caused! And if MK does not go back with us I will have no choice but to take further action! I will be contacting my lawyer to open a lawsuit against you and further more this will ruin your life with insurmountable debt!”

He smirked, crossing his arms over his chest in his assured victory as everyone else stared at him in shock and disbelief. Including his wife, who looked even more incredulous than any of them.

"D-debt?" MK eventually managed to get out, an unbelieving smile forming on his face. Before he started to laugh and march forward. "Debt? DEBT!? FUCK your debt! We'll take our chances DAD, Monkey King has a treasure trove and the best lawyer in all of China so take your debt and STUFF IT!" He raised both middle fingers toward his parents before jumping up to grab the handle of the shutter door and slam is shut before either of his parents could rush back in.

"INSURMOUNTABLE DEBT!" He yelled one last time, almost manically before sitting at a nearby table and covering his face with his hands as he burst into laughter. "I-I just- you can't threaten the Monkey King of all people with financial problems how am I related to this man!?"

The two pairs of parental figures looked at each other before laughing themselves, finding it difficult not to follow in MK's lead given how ridiculously that tense situation ended.

"You handled that pretty damn well, MK," Wukong said with proud smile as he ruffled his student’s hair.

"It's a lot easier when I know I have a bunch of dads and pops to back me up," he replied with a smile.

[alpona]

Geats episode 8 live blog:

It's already been 2 months since Geats aired? Anyway,

- you're still doing your memoir while in this state keiwa-kun? Sleep first! We can do without one recap... Oh wait why am I talking like your mom, I actually don't care, do whatever.

- his sister being attacked, is she gonna die this episode?

- ... Lol, the drink can hitting Azuma's head 🤣 very funny scene!

- I like how Neon's trying to be annoying on purpose hehe

- Nee-chan interacted with henshined Keiwa, she gotta be a rider soon...

- Geats and Buffa petty brawl while Keiwa gets plot , lol

- oh wooww wait, she touched the ID core and memories?? So she already used to be a rider ? Ooo more backstory time!

- Sakurai parents were killed by Jamatos, aha! Congrats to the fans who predicted this!

- oh, so even a civilian's lost memory would unlock by touching any core ID, noted.

- looks like Ace-kun (should I call him granpa Ace now btw? 🤣!) Will keep having his brooding moments with every mention of 'family'.

- Keiwa suggesting a decent plan like a normal team, but this is Geats we're watching.

- hmm you know what, that's actually what Ace kinda did in last episode, except that he forgot the 'forming a plan as teamwork where one decides to be bait' part 😝

- ouch, someone let this guy heal a bit first please!

- Juicy deep conversation I'd rather watch and enjoy but won't comment on for now....

- Henshin time. Kinda interesting that Ace and Keiwa have their default buckles swapped at the moment. Why am I pointing out the obvious...

- oh great, Keiwa being self sacrificial again.

- wait, did the ninja buckle just.. reject Ace right there?

- hm? What's happening indeed, Azuma-kun!

- so power up buckles 'resonating' with the users is also a thing, noted.

- Yayy Tycoon Ninja boost!!

- Keiwa stealing all the action spotlight! Sweet!

- Let me take another moment to appreciate the cool action cinematography again.

- huh, it did end up being a teamwork 😌

Why is there a smile on my face? I decided to be ruthless this season!

- hmmm the end yet not the end?

- what's this wave of emotions that I'm feeling? I wanted to be a psycho and laugh at everything this season, but what have you done, Kei-chan!

- "Maybe. Who knows." Ah. The ultimate line to answer everything. That's Ace's character summary, I tell you.

- wait... Hold on, Keiwa is being eliminated just like that...? But ..the.. well yah sure, the rule makes sense, it's fine, but still.. umm...

- Keiwa-kun glitching and disappearing feels a lot... Different and heavier than other riders. Of course.

- well, I'm STILL not fully convinced about what happens to the eliminated players. But since Keiwa-kun of all people got eliminated, we're definitely going to see this side of the mystery soon.

This also probably hints that eliminated riders can return too, cuz no way Keiwa the main character is never coming back as Tycoon lol!

- But Keiwa is the audience POV character! If he's out of the game, woah! Narrative change coming... Next episode will be the first one without Keiwa, are we going to see more of Ace's story I wonder...

- It was kinda unexpected, I mean I'm fully prepared for anyone's 'death', but Keiwa so casually being eliminated was more of a surprise lol. First time a main character gets eliminated. Honestly, story-wise it makes sense, but formula-wise, I did expect Buffa to die or be eliminated before Keiwa, even if it's Keiwa's first DGP. Good job surprising me Geats.

- owh wait, so the 'last boss' ended up not being the last boss, there'll be another round.

This was a very heavy episode, I didn't even get to joke much. But no worries, I'll get back to delightfully laughing at everything! (!)

Next week, no Keiwa!

Maybe, who knows.

[extraordinarilyfadedmemories]

Babes On Bourbon

Cordelia Good x Reader

Warnings: Drinking, Smut

Summary: While sitting alone in a bar, a woman approaches you and really sparks your interest, so you end up back at your place.

Taglist: @scarlspookyszn @cordeliafoxxe​

Feedback is always welcome and appreciated. I know I am not a professional writer, but I enjoy doing this, not just for me, but for you guys as well. Thank you all so much for the love and support!!

The air was cold and it was raining outside. “A shitty way to end a shitty day” I thought to myself. Your mom had called asking if you had found a job, friends, or a man. I chuckled at that thought. Ever since I came out to her, she had tried to convince me that it was just a phase and I would “grow out of it”. She never would never accept me for who I was, so I left; I packed all my bags and headed a far south as possible, to New Orleans, Louisiana. Now, here I was, sitting at some old bar, drinking myself numb on Bourbon Street. It wasn’t a popular spot, so there weren’t many people hanging around, which left the atmosphere quiet, and I was alone with my thoughts.

“Bartender, another round.” I said while sliding some money on the bar. The girl behind the bar nodded as she began pouring a double whiskey.  Taking the bill off the bar, she slid me the drink and made her way down the bar to attend another patron. Losing count of the number of drinks I had, I decided it would be best to head home soon, so I started on my drink when I heard the door buzz, signaling that someone had walked in.

I turned my attention to the door and was taken back at what I saw. She was wearing a white button up, that worked with her medium length blonde hair to compliment her fair complexion. I let my eyes wonder, taking in every inch of the woman’s body, not even noticing that her dark brown eyes were looking straight at me. Feeling a heat rising on my cheeks, I turned away looking down at the glass sitting in front of me as the woman worked her way deeper into the bar. “Hi.” The mysterious woman spoke as she claimed the empty stool next to me. “Hi.” I stuttered out, causing her to chuckle as she waved down the bartender. “Two shots of tequila please.” As the bartender turned around, the woman spoke again, “My name is Cordelia, and yours?” While downing the remainder of my drink, I looked up confidently, silently thanking the boost of liquid courage.  “Y/N.” “Well, Y/N. I’m glad I ended up in this bar tonight.” She said, grabbing one of the shots off the counter. I watched as she pushed the other shot toward me. “Oh is that so?” I replied, throwing back the shot. Cordelia smiled and nodded, doing the same. “Yes. I was sitting alone in my living room and thought I’d grab a drink, but I didn’t think I’d run into such a beautiful woman like yourself.” Her response took me by surprise. “Are you flirting with me?” I asked as she motioned to the bartender to bring some more shots over. “Yes.” She said with no hesitation, “I was hoping you would be interested in joining me for a few drinks and see where it takes us.” Her words caused a slight smile to appear on my face and I simply replied, “Of course.”

The bartender brought the shots and for the next hour we talked, laughed, and definitely had way too much alcohol. Cordelia pulled out some cash and left it on the bar as she put her hand on my thigh and leaned toward me, putting her lips to my ear. “What do you say we get out of here and go back to your place, hmm?” I could feel the heat where her skin touched mine and couldn’t help the sudden tingle that went between my legs. She had leaned back, still close to my face, but looking into my Y/E/C eyes. “Yeah. I’d like that” I shyly replied as she stood up and pulled me to the front door. “I don’t live far, we can walk if that’s fine with you.” I said as she nodded then grabbed my hand. “Lead the way dear.” She replied.

When I unlocked the door of my apartment, soft hands quickly found there way to my face as Cordelia pulled me in for a kiss. It was rough and hungry and I couldn’t stifle the moans as I pulled the both of us toward my bedroom. Her lips stayed connected to mine as I undid her pants. I was about to pull my pants off, but she pulled away to step out of her pants and throw her blouse over her head, so I quickly did the same. I couldn’t take my eyes off of the stunning woman in front of me, and I couldn’t believe this was actually happening. I hadn’t been intimate with anyone in so long that my nerves took over, and I just stood there trying to decide what to do next. “You are so beautiful, Y/N. Come here.” Cordelia spoke as she reached out to take my hands, as if she could read my thoughts. “If at any point you want to stop, say it and I will stop.” She continued as she guided me to the bed and pushed me back. As her hands worked at the clasp on my bra, her lips found your neck and she began to suck at your exposed flesh. She worked her way to my cleavage leaving a few kisses there as she tossed the bra onto the floor. Bringing a hand to one breast and her lips to the other, Cordelia looked up at me while tracing her tongue slowly around my nipple then taking it in her mouth, sucking harshly and raking her teeth across the sensitive area. I could feel my core dripping with arousal. I wanted her. I needed her.

“Fuck Cordelia, please.” I breathed out as she dipped her free hand into my soaked panties. “Wow baby. So wet for me.” Cordelia said before bringing her mouth onto my other nipple, sucking and biting it just as the other, and tracing her finger up and down my dripping cunt. She teased around my bud and traced circles around it with her thumb as she entered one finger inside of me and began to ease it in and out. As she picked up her pace, she entered a second finger inside, causing a low moan to escape my lips. “Fuck. That feels so good.” I said as I felt my orgasm coming near. Cordelia slowed her pace and pulled her attention away from your breast, pulling at your lacy panties “Let’s get these off. I want to taste just how sweet you are.” She spoke, causing me to lift off the bed as she pulled my underwear off. Wasting no time, she pushed my legs apart and went straight to my center. She moved her tongue in circles roughly around my clit and teased at my entrance with her finger. As she slipped her finger in, she began sucking and pulling at my swollen bud. “I’m so close, Cordelia. Please- just like that.” I said shakily as she replaced her tongue with her thumb and entered another finger inside of me. “Come for me baby girl. Let me see you come for me.” With a few more rough strokes, I could feel my walls pulsing and my legs started shaking as I rode out your orgasm. Cordelia waited until my breathing calmed before pulled her fingers out and bringing them to her tongue to suck off the juices.

“You are amazing.” I said as I sat up to wrapped my legs around her, straddling her. I kissed her, tasting myself on her lips, as I removed her bra and threw it near mine on the floor. I brought my hands up to her chest, taking her nipples in between my fingers, getting them nice and hard. I broke the kiss to push her back and then promptly take a nipple in my mouth. The sounds coming out of this woman caused your core to heat up again as you switch your attention to the other nipple. “Please, Y/N. I really need you to fuck me.” Cordelia said as she locked eyes with me. Beginning down her stomach, she lifted up trying to get her underwear off, so I grabbed them and pulled them the rest of the way off. I was surprised to see she was soaked, her pussy dripping just from getting me off. “All this for me?” I ask teasingly as she took her bottom lip between her teeth and nodded. I teased up and down her sit with my tongue before finally taking her sweet bud in your mouth, flicking it and sucking at it. This beautiful woman, this Cordelia Goode, as she called herself, was writhing beneath me, and I was making her lose control. The sounds coming out of her sent a tingle right between my legs as you entered two fingers into her dripping core. Feeling her walls start to contract against me, I sucked harder and faster at her swollen clit knowing she was getting close. “Oh fuck baby girl, I’m gonna come. Don’t stop” She said as she wrapped her fingers in my hair, pulling lightly to hold me in place. She was grinding into my mouth and before long she had her release.

I moved up the bed to lie next to her as Cordelia steadied her breathing. She turned to face you, the black in her eyes returned to their coffee like color and then she turned around and got up, gathering her clothes from around the room. “Thank you, Y/N for a great night.” She said breaking the silence in the room. “Cordelia, please stay.” You pleaded, trying anything to get the woman back in your arms. She let out a sigh and looked at you with a smile. “I really must be going, I have some important business to attend to in the morning at the Academy, but I’ll leave my number. I look forward to hearing from you.” And with that, she was off. The sound of the front door closing let me know that she was gone, but hopefully she really did leave her number. There was something about her that had me wanting more, and I couldn’t wait to see her again. Her name, Cordelia Good, was the last thing on my mind as I pulled the blanket over me, and drifted off to sleep.

[dykeninthdoctor]

“ironhusbands, pre relationship, focusing on them in their first year of college and being like rhodey really realizing how young tony is” and “sweater sharing”

“Have you heard–“

“Did you see–“

“He went to Rob’s party–“

The whispers are carried to him on the wind, full of rumors, sometimes lies, sometimes truths.

Jim doesn’t care. He knows Tony Stark–the heir to the Stark empire, son of the legend, Howard Stark–is on campus, but he doesn’t care.

There’s no reason for him to.

The kid is 16, apparently, a prodigy for his age, which Jim could’ve guessed, and he gives zero shits about his education.

Jim hasn’t heard anything about the kid going to classes; only about parties, and girls, and sometimes, the whispers mention boys, too. They call Stark a charmer, a slut, a flirt, and worse.

Maybe Jim cares a little bit.

Stark is 16, and he already has a reputation, one that scares Jim.

“Oh my God, did you see how much he drank last night?” a girl says, eyes wide in a mockery of surprise.

“He never seems like he’s drunk, though,” her friend says.

Jim frowns.

“Maybe it runs in the family,” the first girl teases, and then they’re both laughing, walking in the other direction.

Jim frowns harder.

-

He goes to a party the next chance he gets.

Stark is there, in the center of it all, holding court like a prince standing on the backs of his adoring subjects. He’s sprawled across a sofa, legs draped across the lap of a girl whose hand is resting on the inside of his thigh, head in the lap of another girl whose lips are staining marks of red across his jaw.

Stark’s eyes are glazed, the smile he wears is taped on, and Jim realizes with a sinking feeling that it’s all a mask. A mask hastily built, a mask with cracks that Stark uses alcohol to fill, so that no one can see the emotions behind it.

Jim doesn’t know how, or why, but he can.

“A toast,” Stark slurs, raising the plastic cup in his hand, “To dear ol’ dad, who sent me to this lovely institution.”

A cheer goes up around the room.

Stark drinks.

Jim’s moving before he realizes, shoving his way past people, fighting to get to Stark, snapping sharply, “C’mon, Tony, let’s go.”

To his surprise, and fear, Stark gets up and takes his hand without second thought. Jim tries not to think about why.

When he takes Stark outside, the kid–because God, he’s just a kid–looks up at him with a raised brow and a smirk made of plaster. “We’re gonna do it outside? You’re into exhibitionist shit, huh?”

And then he’s on his knees in front of Jim, and Jim’s trying not to throw up.

“No–shit, no, please stand up, Stark–“

“What?”

It’s the confusion in his voice that finally does it, and Jim’s retching into the bushes that line the house behind them, coughing up bile.

He hears the clumsy motions of Stark getting to his feet, feels a small but calloused hand on his back, sees Stark’s face–eyes wide, lips parted in a small o, the face of a kid–and then throws up more bile onto the leaves.

“I’m sorry?” Stark offers quietly, and it’s so different from the brassy, loud, slurred voice of the prince Jim saw only minutes ago.

“How old are you?” Jim asks. It’s not what he meant to say, but as Stark’s eyes go a little wider, he knows he needs to know the answer, because it’s not 16.

“I’m almost 15.”

Jim tries not to throw up again.

-

He takes Stark back to his dorm, with its single bed and tiny cork board with pictures of Momma Robbie and Jeanie tacked up, with the single poster of a galaxy taped to his wall and the precarious stack of textbooks on his desk.

Stark drowns in his clothes, the knitted sweatshirt hanging off his shoulder, revealing a collarbone littered with hickeys, the sweatpants hanging low on his hips, showing bruises the shape of fingers pressed into tan skin.

“Why?”

The question rings out in the silent room.

“Why what?”

“Why are you being…like this?”

“Because you need this,” Jim says.

Stark just looks at him, his chest rising and falling with exaggerated slow breaths, his eyes blinking slowly, his hands clenched in fists at his sides.

“C’mon, get in bed.”

When Stark doesn’t move, Jim freezes.

“No, Stark–not like that. I’m not gonna do anything with you–to you. We’re not doing anything. You deserve a safe place to sleep. I’m gonna do homework, okay?”

“Okay,” Stark says quietly.

When he falls asleep, curled around the only pillow in Jim’s bed, he looks even younger.

Jim makes himself a promise.

A promise to protect Stark.

-

The next day, when he wakes up with his face pressed to the pages of his physics textbook, and his bed rumpled but empty, he realizes protection is not what Stark wants.

Too bad, Jim thinks. Too fucking bad.

-

It’s harder than he thinks to find Stark; even if the kid doesn’t attend classes, there aren’t parties during the day.

The whispers don’t tell him anything, and today, they’re about him.

“He went home with him, just like that–“

“Have you see him around before?”

“Stark just listened to him–“

Jim ignores them.

He goes to his classes, he takes notes, he tries to focus.

He also thinks about where Stark might be hiding.

-

He doesn’t have to think too hard; Stark’s sitting in his dorm when he gets back after his 5:00 lecture.

The door was locked, but Stark didn’t seem to have any difficulty with that.

“Hi,” Stark says.

“What the fuck,” Jim says back.

Stark shrugs. “You were nice to me. What do you want for it? Money? A reputation boost? We can pretend to fuck, if you don’t want to for real, just so that people think you got some.”

“What do I want for it?” Jim repeats.

“Yeah, payment.”

“I don’t want anything.”

“C’mon, everyone wants something,” Stark says, and the way his eyes avoid Jim’s, despite his casual pose and even more casual tone, tells Jim that he’s scared.

“I don’t want anything, Stark.”

It’s a lie; he wants to know who hurt Stark, he wants to give Stark a hug, he wants to protect Stark.

He also wants Stark to let him out of choice, rather than obligation.

“Okay,” Stark says.

Okay, Jim thinks.

What he says is, “You can stay while I do my homework, if you want.”

“I talk a lot,” Stark tells him. “I’ll bother you.”

“I have a little sister, you can’t be worse than her.”

“Oh.”

So Stark stays.

-

“What’s your name?”

“Jim.”

“Oh, that won’t do at all. What’s the rest of it?”

“James Rupert Rhodes?”

“Rupert?”

“Don’t start with me, Stark–“

“Tony. My name’s Tony.”

“And my name’s Jim.”

“Not anymore, it’s not. You’re Rhodey now.”

-

“What are you doing?”

“Physics.”

“No shit, Sherlock, I meant the equation. You calculated wrong.”

“I did not.”

“Put it in the calculator, it’s not 6.78, it’s 6.57.”

“You did that in your head?”

“I’m not just a pretty face.”

-

“How old’s your sister?”

“She’s 10, but she’s 7 in that picture.”

“That’s your mom?”

“Yeah, I took that picture of them at the lake near our house.”

“She…she looks nice.”

“She’d like you.”

-

“What’s your major?”

“Aerospace Engineering, so yeah, I’m a rocket scientist.”

“Damn, how’d you know what I was gonna say?”

“You’re predictable, Tones.”

“Tones?”

“Well, if you’re allowed to give me a nickname, shouldn’t the favor be returned?”

“I…yeah.”

-

So Jim becomes Rhodey, and Stark becomes Tony, and sometimes Tones.

-

Rhodey realizes a few months in that Tony doesn’t need protection.

Tony knows how to protect himself, with a sharp quip or an even sharper smile.

What Tony needs is love.

So Rhodey makes a new promise.

-

After Rhodey has to drag Tony out of another party, after slurred words become quiet apologies, after Tony falls asleep in his bed again, Rhodey calls his momma.

She tells him to bring Tony home for Christmas break.

-

In Rhodey’s eyes, Tony’s never looked more alive than when Momma Robbie convinced him to play Scrabble with her and Jeanie.

-

“That boy needs love, James,” Momma Robbie tells him, a mug of tea cradled in her hands.

“I know, momma.”

“You gonna make sure he gets it?”

“Pretty sure I already am.”

-

When the clock strikes twelve on New Years, Tony tries to kiss him.

They’re on the roof, the stars above them reflecting in Tony’s eyes, and Tony tries to kiss him.

“No, Tones,” Rhodey says softly. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. I love you.”

“Just not like that?”

Tony’s voice is broken glass, slowly tearing Rhodey’s heart to pieces.

The lie is a knife to the chest.

“Just not like that.”

Tony nods quietly.

They don’t share a bed that night.

-

When they get back from break, after a silent car ride, Tony asks suddenly, “Wanna see my workshop?”

It would’ve been simpler to ask if Rhodey wanted to see his heart.

There’s no other to answer to give than yes.

-

It’s a beautiful mess of chaos, the only description befitting the place where Tony breathes life into wires and gears and lines of numbers.

Rhodey doesn’t know what to say other than, “Thank you, Tones.”

Tony hugs him for an hour, and then spends three more showing him each idea, and then uses another two to get lost in a new project.

Rhodey realizes that this is where Tony truly comes alive.

He’s a kid in a candy store, a bird taking flight, a genius at work.

And he’s beautiful.

The knife, the lie, digs harder into Rhodey’s chest.

-

Tony has bad weeks, and worse weeks, where Rhodey doesn’t see him for days, but it’s okay.

It’s okay, because Tony always comes back.

-

Rhodey learns about Howard during a bad week, and about Jarvis on a good one.

He learns about Maria on a good week, and about Ana on a bad one.

Tony brings him pieces, and Rhodey starts to build the puzzle.

Some pieces are missing, and will probably always be missing, but it’s okay.

Rhodey will love him no matter what.

And slowly, Tony is starting to believe that. Rhodey can see it in his eyes, in the way his mask comes off, in the way the cracks become windows for Rhodey to look through.

-

The summer is long. Tony calls him some weeks, emails other weeks, doesn’t talk at all for most of them.

The worst part is not knowing if he’s okay.

But Rhodey takes what he can get, and gives as much as Tony will take.

-

When they get back to school, there are fresh bruises on Tony’s arms. Rhodey gives him a new sweater from Momma Robbie and Tony wears it like its armor.

They get a dorm together, officially, and most nights, Tony ends up in Rhodey’s bed, in Rhodey’s arms.

Watching him wake up is the best part of Rhodey’s day.

It’s hard, to keep lying, but Tony’s still just a kid, and Rhodey won’t be another person to use him.

So he loves him in the ways he can, and it’s enough, because it has to be.

-

The whispers are constant, always talking about them, but this time, Rhodey truly doesn’t care.

He knows better than the lies they spread.

-

“Rhodey–Rhodey, wake up,” Tony whispers against his chest.

Rhodey grunts. “‘m sleeping.”

“It’s raining.”

“So?”

“I wanna go outside.”

It’s the look in his eyes that does it, the wonder. Rhodey’s on his feet before he even realizes it. “Okay, Tones.”

They dance in the rain on the roof, and Tony laughs, and Rhodey looks at him, and sees nothing but happiness, and feels nothing but love.

-

Rhodey kisses Tony on his 18th birthday.

Maybe it’s wrong, but the way Tony laughs against his lips and twines his arms around his neck is nothing but right.

“I thought–“

“I lied, genius, I had to,” Rhodey whispers, ready to let go, but Tony just holds him tighter.

“Thank you.”

“For lying?”

“For loving me the way I needed.”

[secretaryunpaid]

Prompt list I think its fluff number 20 “i’m not playing truth or dare.” can't wait to read 😘

Thank you for the ask, @pixie88 !!! 

(Giving myself a pep talk in advance, lol)

Hmmm... fluff... okay, you're gonna make me a fluff writer yet, lol... let's do this...

Pairing: Dahlia & Samuel Dalton

Rating: General

Word Count: 1615 approximately

It was going to be an exciting evening, or so she had hoped. Vivian came for the twins and it was just Sam and Dahlia for the weekend! Sam phoned to tell her to get dressed and that he was on his way home.

We all know where Dahlia's mind went... she was so excited she hurried to dress and put on some hype music to boost her energy... Feeling herself in her daisy yellow halter top and skorts, she did a little dance through the room., while lip syncing the lyrics to Wild Thoughts by Rihanna & Bryson Tiller... 

She enters the kitchen to prepare a charcuterie board and other ingredients, she figured on maybe some light eating and a movie in their private home theater room... but really not taking in the movie... She would invade his man cave, and he wouldn’t regret letting her in...

Looking down at the sound of her phone’s notification, she sees the message from Sam saying that he was in the parking garage and would be up soon. Her excitement builds, and she hurries to pour them drinks. Maybe they could finish the night with a rooftop swim... but she didn’t want to jump ahead of herself... she’d need to determine Sam’s energy level after his long hours of work.

She hears the elevator chime and rushes to greet him, handing him his first drink of the night. “Welcome home, baby... I’ve missed you!” Planting a soft kiss on her lips, he takes the drink before intertwining their fingers, leading her back inside.

“You’re in a great mood! And this yellow... Mhmm! Do a spin for me...” 

She spins slowly so that he can take in his eye’s content before teasing, “I thought we could play a little ‘Driving Miss Daisy” tonight... See what I did there? You know, cause I’m in yellow...” Realizing the insinuation has gone overhead, “Yellow... like daisies...”

Sam finally catches on, realizing that she isn’t asking him to chaufer her anywhere, but instead drive her in the way she enjoys most.

They reach the dining table where she has the charcuterie board set, and Sam kisses her temple, “You were really excited about this evening weren’t you? Looks like enough for everyone.”

Dahlia’s happy face turns puzzled... “Everybody? Isn’t ‘everybody’ already here?”

He kisses her again answering, “Well... I thought I would try something new tonight... so I invited a few guests over... for a game night.”

“Has someone snatched my real husband? Game night with guests? Color me very surprised!... But I got all cute for you, I set up the man cave for a movie night, thinking we could finish with a late night swim...”

“I’ll still have all the energy you need from me, but... “ He kisses her teasingly as he tickles her, “We’ll have company, and your plans sound like we need to wrap things up quickly... So we need to plan this just right... I’m not trying to disappoint my lady in any way.”

Before you even get started, “I’m not playing truth or dare.”

Sam chuckles, asking her why not. “Come on... how bad can it get? ... Don’t I know everything I need to know ... or every dark or dirty thing that you’ve ever done?”

Dahlia smiles through the question, internally screaming... He can never know the full truth... He wouldn’t want to ever lay eyes on me again... “Why not pictionary or even ... ugggh... monopoly?”

“What have you got against monopoly?,” he laughs.

“Only never being able to keep anything that I buy, and going to jail...it’s like that’s the only home that I get to keep!”

Sam laughs questioningly with a huff, “Home?... You’re referring to jail  as home?”

“Well... it takes FOR-ever to get out of... if I even do... so... Yeah!!!”

“Okay... so what can I do to convince you on “Truth or Dare”? Cause it’s one of my favorites other than “Never Have I Ever”... Oh, we could-”

“Oh, HELL NO! Not that game either,” she stresses, shaking her head adamantly...

His eyes alight with intrigue he pleads to have his way. “Please... I won’t make you run through Central Park in your birthday suit...” Kissing her neck, he laughs... “Just through the lobby, see ... easy.”

Playfully shoving him away, she laughs. “See, this is why! This is why I won’t play truth or dare with you!”

“Well, it’s game night... Those are my picks... Tell me yours and we will find a way to choose,” he says, coming up behind her, locking her in his embrace, figuring if he gets her ‘motivated’ she will let him have his way.

“Well...I do have some dirty dice... We could get a bucket of ice... I can...” Reaching to whisper against his ear, she teases of the many naughty things that could be done... IF... if he’d call off inviting the others, that is...

Robin and Jenny are coming over... plus, I invited a few more couples to come over...” Raising a brow as he confesses, Sam waits for Dahlia’s reaction. “Really !!!! This is so unlike you... It’s usually just us and the kids... and your mom occasionally ... What’s changed?... Wait... Who are you, and what have you done with my husband?,” giving Sam a sideways glance before grinning, her beautiful smile warming his heart.

“I started seeing a therapist again.”

Her expression sharply changed from playful to deeply concerned. Her heart sank, wondering if he was having second thoughts about their marriage, but felt he couldn’t talk to her about it... “A therapist ?!!!? But.. why?”

“I was starting to have panic attacks... I didn’t want to distract you from your “skinsulate” development and  trials. I know how important that has been to you. I’m proud that you are making such headway with it... I won’t take from that with my drama.”

“Is that the truth? It’s not... being married to me is it?” Hesitant to make eye contact, wringing her hands together, attempting to brace herself for heartache. “But you can always talk to me, love... about anything... I don’t judge or react unless you are confessing to cheating on me... then it’s an open forum other than that. You know me, Sam...,” peering into his eyes, searching for truth...

“Well, maybe we can {kiss}... talk {kiss}... more about it later {deeper kiss, his hands now probing under the hem of her skorts }... cause...” He begins to pull away, “Company has just arrived... I just heard the elevator chime...”

Heated and now left hanging, Dahlia groans in frustration, but pulls him back for a final kiss before he goes to greet them. “Husband... we are finishing this later!,” she calls after him.

Jenny comes in first, making her way to Dahlia, hugging her tightly before leaning to wave the bottle of Duce, “Let’s start this game night right! Where are the glasses?” 

  Next Robin comes in, followed by the other couples... He teases Sam, “You must be a fool in love... the great recluse is now hosting game nights in his home ???” Then his eyes land on Jenny, who immediately blushes at the memory of their wild night together.

The other couples show off the things they brought for tonight, asking which games they’ll be playing collectively, sounding like a room of overly excited grade school children. Robin exclaims confidently, “Truth or Dare... All night, baby !!!”

The group shows mixed emotions, but the majority sing out together,

“I’m not playing truth or dare!”

Each in turn explaining the awful dares and mind blowing truths revealed in past games, as Dahlia and Jenny finally join them with a tray of drinks for everyone. “What’d we miss?,” she asks as she introduces herself to the couples she doesn’t know. 

Robin reminds Sam of the dare he had from a time they played before... He had to rap his infomercial for their upcoming project... Mason, Sr was pissed, because it was being recorded live...

Sam rubs the memory and embarrassment from his face although the can’t help but laugh over the expression on their parent’s faces ... along with key investors for the project.. “I wasn’t going to let you hold that over my head Robin... I had to do it! It took me weeks of apologies and ass kissing to fix that  situation... And it even forced me to ... ahem... perform outside of the norm...”

Robin continues to blast Sam’s dares, telling of the he dared Sam to wear a disguise and pretend to be an assistance of Robin’s that had Tourette Syndrome, constantly blurting out “R-R-Robin’s the the the the ... Eeek!(high pitched) M-Man!” Everyone turns to Sam before snapping their heads back to Robin, who simply throws his hands up. 

“No disrespect to the disabled... just knocking Sammy down a peg or two or fifty,” he laughs,”Being Mr. Perfect and “can do no wrong” in everyone’s eyes...he deserved it... Can’t handle the consequence, don’t play the game...,” he says callously, shrugging through his continued laughter. “Show ‘em the tick Sam... go ahead!” Robin is near breathless and in tears...

Dahlia swats Sam’s shoulder, shocked that he would do such a thing. “Yet, you still insist on this for game night?... Oh, I didn’t miss the first dare mentioned either... we will be discussing those performances later once everyone has left, Mr. Dalton,” she smirks knowingly.

Robin finally yells over, “So Dahlia... We’re playing-”

“I’m not playing Truth or Dare! Pack it in Robin!!! ” 

Everyone laughs, and continues discussing what will be played while eating, enjoying the hell out of the stories told and taunting each other. Dahlia makes her way over to Sam, whispering softly against his ear, “Still not playing, but ... I dare you to slip off for a quickie to hold me over til later!”

“Umm, guys, I think we ran out of ... ICE, we’ll be right back!,” Sam yells out to the group as he’s dragging Dahlia from the room. Everyone looks puzzled, except for Jenny and Robin, looking towards the large tub of ice on the table next to the bottles of champagne. 

Robin makes his way over to stand next to Jenny, giving her a smoldering look before asking, “Truth or Dare?” ...

~~~~~ @pixie88, It’s not smut, but... ~~~~~

I just may learn this fluff writing thing, yet...

[ill-skillsgard]

Bred For Blood - Part 19 - Promise-Promise

Title: Bred For Blood

Warning: 18+ - sex/mature language & themes/gun violence/substance abuse etc. *mentions of coma/unconsciousness, injuries, and sex in this part*

Characters: AU Axel Cluney, AU Ivar Lothbrok, AU Valter x OC

Description: A bright, young survivor meets an acid-gun slinging headhunter with a knack for melting faces and connections to a prodigal Utopia embedded in the heart of a deadly forest. Violence and passion incite a battle of fealty while betrayal nips at Zed’s heels.

Note: Sooo many feelings in this part, you guys. Next part will be the finale! My gosh, it’s actually coming. Stick around because it’s gonna be a doozy! Much love to all the readers who’ve waited patiently and shout out to any new readers who’ve taken the time to let me know their thoughts. I appreciate all the comments and reblogs forever! With that being said, please comment and reblog. It’d really make my day. XO

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Part 13 Part 14 Part 15 Part 16 Part 17 Part 18

Zed waited for Vee next to the window overlooking the vast green ocean of vegetation. The sliver of sun painted the sky aflush, rolling west in shades of violet. Pinprick stars perforated the melting spectrum, and the phantom moon showed its impatient face fully before the horizon swallowed all light. It was a soothing array of scenery, and Zed rested her head on the glass until footsteps drew her attention to the door. She smiled as Vee came in carrying a plate of zucchini fritters and mashed chickpeas, returning the warm greeting silently.

"Hungry? Axel wasn't a fan. He wants a cheeseburger from McDonald's," said Vee, handing the platter to Zed.

She accepted the dish with a nod. "Did you tell him why that's not possible?"

Vee sighed. The dark beneath his eyes seemed permanent now. "I didn't get into detail. He wouldn't understand."

"Shouldn't we make him understand?"

"It's too soon. The big lug just woke up. It was a challenge just to get him to lie there. Soon he'll want to leave the lab, and I don't know how he'll fare around his adoring fans."

Zed bit into a greasy fritter and scooped a dollop of the paste with the leftover crescent. "He'll love the ego-boost, I'm sure."

"That's what I'm afraid of. All those people will confuse him. Who knows what that might do to his head. We're in a delicate situation."

"Axel seems to like me. Maybe I can convince him to stay put."

Vee grimaced from the thought of Axel working Zed over with his motoring mouth and crass sense of humour. The scientist had grown accustomed to nights alone with her, cooking together and discussing their future. The night they'd spent alone in the greenhouse rang in his heart; the night he admitted his feelings and begged her to squash them. The thought of her alone with Axel picked a scab he didn't know he had.

"You're worried about something," Zed said.

Vee snapped from his bittersweet reverie and sighed. "Am I ever not worrying?"

"True," Zed snorted. "Now, eat. I can't finish this all myself."

The pair finished the plate before Vee set the dish aside and motioned her to the sofa.

"We need to talk about what we found in Glott's notes. I know we can't test this theory, but we should treat it as the truth," said Vee.

"Okay, well, if that's how we're approaching this D negative blood sample... What's the next step? We have no medical supplies. I checked the med tent in the courtyard for the third time just for fun."

"Then we have to visit Glott and get some answers. And by we... I mean me."

"Valter—"

"I know you don't want me to leave, but what other option do we have? Every day we waste here is another step backward."

Zed shook her head until a thin braid dislodged from behind her ear and swung in her face. Vee resisted the urge to tuck it back. The girl's face swivelled toward the window, and she pondered and watched the premature stars twinkle across the bruised sky.

"We go together," Zed said firmly. "I won't budge on that."

"And what about Axel?"

"We wait until he's better. We'll need him to navigate the way."

"And if he never recovers?" Vee asked.

"Then we go anyway. All three of us. We get Axel better, and we go together."

Vee inhaled through his nose as Zed screwed her eyes into his. When he nodded, a smile unfurled across her face, shadowed by the last drops of brassy sunlight.

"I hate this plan, but I suppose it's all we have," said Vee.

"Promise we'll all stick together."

"Of course, Lea. I won't leave without you guys. Promise."

"Promise-promise?"

"I double promise with a cherry on top. Stick a needle in my eye and call it macaroni."

Zed stifled laughter beneath her palm. "I think you've been hanging out with Sam too much."

"That, or I'm just tired."

"I'll let you sleep now. You look beat."

Vee twisted his mouth in lopsided agreement. "Yeah, you're right. I'm gonna hit the shower first. Unless you want to?"

"No, you go ahead. I'll stay here a little longer," Zed said as she laid her temple against the cool glass and looked out over the forest floor, now drowning in the twilight.

~*~

In the morning, Zed left the apartment and padded down the hallway in her mismatched slippers. She slowed as she turned the corner and found the brothers talking. Axel's eyebrows were locked in a line, and Vee looked up at her with relief.

"Lea, can you help me explain to Axel why he can't leave the hospital room?"

Axel whipped the covers off his thighs. "This place is fuckin' weird, and I know you're lying to me. That doctor you had in here is a whack-job. Something isn't adding up."

"Stay put," Vee commanded.

Zed rubbed the sleep from her eyes and prepared to take both sides with a long breath. "Axel, your brother is right. You can't leave yet. Just stay a little longer and heal."

"Where the fuck am I, Vee? This isn't like any hospital I've ever been to. And why can't I use the phone to call mom and dad?"

Axel's question erased all the sleep Vee had gotten the night before. His fatigue was contagious. Zed approached the bed and brushed Axel's shoulder. The touch diffused the tension in his upper body and opened him up to a new explanation, one that hadn't come from his kid brother's mouth.

"There are no phones here, Axel. You're right... This place is different. We're missing a lot of things you’d consider normal."

"Look, darlin', I know you're just trying to make me feel better, but none of what you're saying makes any sense. What do you mean there's no phone? There's electricity, isn't there? So why can't I hobble my way to a pay phone or borrow someone's cell?"

Vee and Zed exchanged pained looks. The younger brother kneaded his brow and offered Axel the same explanation he had before, reworded. Axel refused to believe a word and scrambled off the gurney, throwing Vee's hands off him as he limped a few steps and realized his mistake.

"What the fuck is wrong with my foot? Did someone sliced my ankle in half? What is happening to me? I feel like I'm on an acid trip that never ends. I go to sleep and see crazy shit, only to wake up in an even crazier place where there're no phones and no fucking food! You're talking in goddamn riddles, Vee. The least you can do is get me a Baconator for my trouble! I can't walk—I can't even jerk off 'cause my good hand is fucked. You gotta help me out."

"How many times do I have to tell you, Axe? There are no restaurants!"

"Bullshit! Sweetheart, come on, you can help me, right? Can you please just grab me something greasy? I'll pay you back, I promise. I'm good for it."

"I wish I could help you, Axel, but Vee's right. There's nowhere to get stuff like that anymore."

"Anymore? What does that even mean? You guys are talking like I slept through the apocalypse or something!"

Zed turned to Vee, who blocked the way to the courtyard. "Come on, Axe. Just settle down, and get back into bed."

"Are you gonna find me some painkillers then?" Axel faltered toward the bed and hoisted himself onto the flat mattress with his right arm.

"I'll see what I can do, buddy, but will you promise to stay here for a little longer?"

"Whatever," Axel scoffed. "What else am I gonna do?"

Zed waited until Axel slid back under the covers and tilted his face away from them both to assess Vee's mood. She suspected Axel's recovery would be difficult. Still, when she pictured him with his eyes open again, she heard laughter and saw game nights, shared wine and inside jokes knitting them closer together—not disarray and a friend who'd forgotten her. And if Vee had left the day he championed himself, Axel wouldn't have any flagship of his past. The scientist's presence tranquillized her despite Axel's rotten mood fouling the atmosphere.

"You're hungry, Axel?" Zed asked.

"Starving."

"I'll try to track down something tasty to eat. It won't be a greasy burger, but maybe I can find you something close to fries. I'll make it myself if I have to."

Axel flipped his eyes to the girl standing with her arms knotted behind her back and smiled. "Oh, darlin'...You're a sweet thing. I'd hate to ask, so I'll just accept the offer. Or maybe Vee can go, and you and I can chat a little more?"

Zed chuckled at the man's slyness. "I have some other things to do. We’ll talk when I get back."

"Don't rush for me, honey, but if you do, I'll take it as a good sign," Axel said with a wink.

At the cost of one of her knit blankets, Zed found someone in Athena to chop and bake a sweet potato in peanut oil. She bartered for garlic and salt to sprinkle on the dish. The redheaded child spotted her making transactions and stopped her at the mouth of the Hives with a cloth of fermented cashew cheese and a large chunk of bread that sat out overnight but was still soft. She offered the foodstuffs to Axel on a thin wood slab, and he accepted with an obsequious grin. He relinquished his dissatisfaction and warmed next to Zed.

"Aw, darlin', look at you go. How can I thank you for your trouble?" Axel asked as he chomped a crispy strand of sweet potato.

Zed stepped back from his bed, blushing. "It's okay, Axel. You don't have to do anything but get better."

"Will you stay with me for a while? If I have to stay in bed, it'd really make my life easier if I have someone to talk to. That is if you don't mind my chattiness."

"Sure. Let me grab a chair from the apartment," said Zed.

Axel finished his meal quickly, and as if he hadn't eaten at all, felt the pang of hunger moments after the last bite of bread. His appetite woke up ravenous, and no amount of homegrown food could satiate the growl.

"I might need to eat again in an hour," Axel informed as Zed dragged the chair across the floor. “I’m a big boy, you know.”

"That's fine. I'll find you something in a little while ."

The injured man nodded and sighed, eyelashes fluttering over tired green eyes. A bloated silence proceeded, and Zed wondered how to initiate a conversation. Vee told her not to confuse Axel with present-day news, but all she wanted to do was ask about Richard Glott's underground bunker and with who he'd crossed paths that left him slashed and maimed.

After a couple of deep breaths, Axel murmured, "I see you in my dreams every time I fall asleep. Is that strange?"

Zed hid her shy smile behind her palm. "Oh, stop."

Axel shimmied his torso higher on the bed and frowned in pain. "No, seriously. Not trying to be slick, honey. I see the most fucked up things when I sleep. You know the kind of dreams so vivid, you wake up and your heart’s pounding, thinking it's all real for a minute? Then you're like... No way."

Zed shifted closer to Axel's bed. "What do you dream about?"

Axel smiled to himself. "You, mostly... Us. You and me doing crazy shit together. Sometimes I'm in the desert, and I see this airplane in the distance. It's on the ground, and I ride toward it, you know, you're not gonna ignore a crashed plane, right? Then I find you there, but these guys are hurting you, and you're going nuts trying to shake 'em, but there's too many, so I shoot 'em all, and they melt like popsicles. You stab one good, though."

"What else?" Zed asked.

"I dunno... Sometimes it's just me and you cruising through the desert, and I get the feeling you hate me, but I kinda like it. I'm happy you're there, even though we're in the middle of nowhere, and I have no idea what's gonna happen next."

"Sounds like some pretty weird dreams."

"They're so lucid. It's like a movie, and I'm the main character, and you're... Well, you. Like my cool sidekick."

"Sidekick, huh?" Zed scoffed.

"Yeah, you have this air about you that's like not to be fucked with. Then things always get real dark. I don't even want to tell you about it 'cause you'll think I'm fucked in the head."

Zed knew this part of the story and lowered her eyes to the floor. "It's okay. You can tell me if you want. It's just dreams, right?"

"Nah, I'll just leave it at that. It's not sex stuff or anything if you're wondering."

"Your dreams are more entertaining than anything I have going on today."

With Zed's green light, Axel inhaled deeply before launching into the story of their past. Before he uttered another syllable, a severed connection sparked in his head. His eyes grew large, and he looked around the makeshift hospital room, awestruck.

"In my dreams, we're trying to get to Vee. He needs us for some reason."

"What does he need?"

"Some science shit, which makes total sense because he's a scientist. He's actually a scientist, and not just in my dreams."

"Axel... These dreams you've had... Do you think they have significance?" Zed asked carefully.

"Totally. They have to. Right? Or am I fucking crazy?"

"You're not crazy, Axel. I promise."

"But what if I am? This place... I get such a bad feeling when I'm awake in this room by myself. Vee won't tell me where we are. It's like he's hiding something, and he never lies to me about anything. We don't do that."

"Vee just wants you to get better. He's under a lot of stress, and your recovery is a big part of that. We didn't think—he didn't think you'd make it through. Another complication is the last thing you guys need."

Axel went quiet again and fixated on the dust motes and bolts of lightning crackling up his leg. A storm grew behind his eyes, the same torrents Zed saw when she tried to stop him from leaving Kinderfeld and her behind. Sickened by the thought of Axel sneaking off, she touched his arm and offered a warm smile.

"Talk to me, Axel. Please. Don't keep anything inside."

Axel glanced at her small hand on his tattooed bicep and the lightning in his body faded.

"We were friends in a past life," Axel claimed.

"We're friends in this life."

"Can I tell you one other thing, then I promise I'll stop talking about my bonkers dreams?"

"Yes. I don't mind at all."

Axel curled his bicep and touched Zed's fingers, feeling the motion out until she grasped his hand.

"I think I have to take you somewhere."

"Oh, yeah?" Zed giggled. "And where's that?"

Axel blushed for the first time and brought her hand to hold next to him on the bed. "Not like on a date or anything. I just get this feeling that I'm supposed to protect you, even though you seem capable of looking after yourself just fine. This dream voice keeps reminding me to stay with you and Vee... Like I'm not allowed to let either of you out of my sight. Especially not you."

"Then don't," Zed said.

He squeezed her fingers gently. "I won't."

~*~

Word of Axel's consciousness seeped out of the lab and into the village. Nobody knew who had made the discovery—Vee blamed Samson while Zed suspected Nalani, who'd waltzed by the lab doors at a suspiciously slow pace several times each day—and leaked the information. They barred visitors and only allowed the doctor in to help change Axel's bandages until Ivar arrived.

Axel was alone, humming a tune from his teenage years when the king came through the doors and stopped to stare at his bed-ridden friend.

"Zee, you're awake? And no one thought to tell me?"

"Sorry, hombre, but I think you have the wrong room. Name's Axel."

Ivar flashed all his sharp teeth in a sly smile and wagged his finger. "Always a joker."

"No, really," Axel chuckled, then went deadpan. "Wait... Who are you?"

Before Ivar spoke, Vee walked into the lab and froze when he saw Ivar standing a few feet from Axel's bed.

"Ivar. I wasn't expecting you."

The king sneered and motioned toward Axel. "What's with this guy?"

"Hey, maybe we can talk for a second?" Vee invited Ivar down the hall, out of earshot.

Ivar glared at the scientist. "When exactly were you planning on telling me he woke up?"

"That's the thing, Ivar. You don't understand... Axel's suffering from amnesia. It's common for coma patients to lose parts of their memory. Right now, he's in a very touchy state. He has no idea where he is, who you are, or what any of this is. I've tried to keep people away from him to avoid confusion, but now everybody knows. It's not good for him. Subjecting him to all this new information can cause anxiety, panic... Who knows. We're trying to ease him back into life."

"What do you mean he doesn't know who I am? I'm his best friend."

"Trust me. Axel doesn't even remember serving in the army."

"That's crazy. We should tell him—"

"No. It's too big of a shock. Axel's already gone through hell. Imagine trying to explain our world to somebody who has virtually no idea what's happened in the last couple of years."

Ivar pondered and didn't respond to Vee's relief, then sighed as though he accepted the explanation.

"So what does this mean for you? I assume you're retracting your claim and staying in Kinderfeld?"

Vee twisted his mouth to the side. "How can I go now?"

"You volunteered."

"That was before Axel came home. He needs me. I'm the only person he recognizes. Give me some more time with him, get him back on his feet and see if he'll start remembering, then I'll go."

Ivar crossed his arms across his burly chest. "Who knows how long that might take?"

"Would you leave someone you loved in that state?"

"I'd do what's for the greater good."

"He's your best friend. He's my brother. Axel needs us right now, Ivar. Think of all he's done for us. We owe it to take care of him until he's fit to at least walk again. I need him to remember what happened so I can get a better idea of what's going on outside."

"I suppose you're right," Ivar conceded. "You can't go out blind by yourself."

"Yes, you're right," Vee said with great relief.

"So what now? I can't talk to him?"

"You can speak to him if you like, but try not to bring up things that might confuse him. Don't talk about the army or mention recent times."

Ivar looked over his shoulder at the apartment's open door and heard the muted humming of a girl filtering through the corridor.

"And how's Lea taking all of this?"

Vee stiffened. "She's helping out."

"Axel has no idea who she is? He really doesn't know what's happened?"

"Not that I can tell. He keeps asking for cheeseburgers and to call our parents."

"Wow," Ivar whispered.

"Yeah, it's hard."

Ivar went quiet, distant, and shook his head slowly before inhaling through his nose and squeezing Vee's shoulder. "I trust you, brother. Maybe we'll talk more about your expedition in a few days when things have a chance to settle with Axel."

"You got it."

Axel pretended he wasn't trying to listen to the conversation between his brother and the brown-haired man with the striking blue eyes when the pair returned. Ivar nodded at Axel, his eyes awash with sympathy for the indisposed man.

"How are you feeling, Axel?"

"A little on the shitty side, my man. Not gonna lie. Hands busted, foot's bum... Can't fuck my way to a decent meal in this place, and everyone's tiptoeing around like I'm a sleeping baby. Gotta say I've had better days."

"Well, I hope you heal up quick. There are a lot of people who want to see you."

A coy smirk unfurled over Axel's face. "Yeah, I kinda get that impression. Sometimes, I see people looking in through those doors. I feel like a panda at a zoo. Everyone wants a peek at little ol’ Axel, huh?"

"Is there anything I can get you?"

"Cheeseburger?" Axel asked hopefully.

"Would if I could, friend."

"Goddamn it," Axel lamented.

Vee widened his eyes when Ivar looked at him, confirming what they'd discussed in the hallway.

"Say, how do you stay so beefy if there's no meat in this place?" Axel asked Ivar.

"I get my protein where I can. Try to stay fit. I'll get someone to bring you something good to eat."

Axel snorted. "Yeah, that's what that sweet-lookin' one said, but everything tastes like tree bark. No offence to her. She tried her best, and I'd never insult a lady's cooking to her face."

Ivar sucked in his bottom lip and nodded. "Well, I'll see what I can do for you, Axel. Get better soon."

Vee held his breath until Ivar left the lab and shrunk once the doors closed.

"You sure have a way with words, don't you?"

"Everyone who walks in here acts like they know me."

"We might have to move you to the apartment. Put a cap on your visitors."

"Who was that?" Axel asked.

"That's Ivar Lothbrok. He kinda runs things, in a sense."

"Nice guy."

Vee scoffed. "Yeah. Nice."

An itch stuck in the back of Axel's head, and he grew quiet once again, trying to unravel the mystery he'd woken up inside. He was a figure in a snow globe, a permanent fixture in a landscape rife with faces he'd seen in dreams. Sitting up in his bed, Axel wondered what laid beyond the confines of his glasshouse. Never one to follow the rules, even under the firm guidance of his smart younger brother, Axel decided once everyone fell asleep, he'd find himself a walking post and go exploring.

~*~

Zed woke to the sound of Vee's soft snoring coming through the open door of his bedroom. The possibility of sleep retracted with every second she spent staring at the smooth, globular ceiling in the dark, trying to make shapes out of the dream residue behind her eyelids. The sofa stiffened her back, and she twisted her spine until air bubbles popped and her muscles strained from the motion. She pulled the blanket up to her chin and squeezed her eyes shut for a few minutes, but Axel's stories followed her from sleep, brushing up on her with sharp quills. Since Axel painted his dream world, she hadn't stopped thinking of him and mourning the loss of his memory for the both of them. Axel didn't know his missing pieces were dancing under his eyes each time he slumbered, and she longed to stitch them together to create the full picture.

She squinted into the darkness, fatigue long since faded, and left the apartment. Light on her bare feet, Zed padded down the hallway and turned the corner to find an empty bed. Her heart twinged from Axel's absence. She considered going back to the apartment to tell Vee his brother was missing but found herself propelled to seek Axel out herself. There was nowhere in the lab a man of Axel's stature could hide, so she went out to the courtyard to begin her search. The floodlights cast pyramids of light over the foothills but revealed nothing but stone paths and glittering grass ranks. She started left first, then changed her mind and shot right toward the warehouse. Zed minded her steps as she picked up a jog, extending her legs to clear the roiling yards until she reached the square entrance of the warehouse. A guard leaned against the steel wall next to the exit, blinking and wiping a hand over his face to rouse himself. He saw Zed across the cement expanse and stood up straight.

"What're you doing out here?" The guard's voice clattered through the chamber.

"Sorry," Zed said, casting a thorough glance around before retreating into the light and shadow of the courtyard again. She rushed to the Hives, taking quick strides to reach her abandoned apartment before anyone else noticed her. After a quick knock, Zed opened the door to find her former living quarters as deserted as ever. Nobody had claimed the space in her absence, nor was Axel's adjoining apartment occupied. Both rooms were empty.

Zed's search for Axel continued and grew in urgency with each lonely cove and space she found. As she made her way around the central dome where the courtyard bordered the largest hill, she stopped at the mouth of the Chrysalis and addressed the men standing guard.

"Have either of you seen someone limping through here?"

"Nobody's come 'round here, Zed. Who're you looking for?"

Zed cocked her head. "Who do you think?"

"You mean Zee?" The man on the right asked. "Thought he was paralyzed."

"So it's true? He's awake?"

"Please don't tell anyone. Not yet."

The bearded guard rose a dark eyebrow at Zed. He was one of Ivar's highest-ranking patrol. Zed recognized him from the night they'd brought in the Zeronaut captain, Monk. He often stood by wherever Ivar went and didn't talk much unless addressed. "Ivar know about this?"

"I don't know what Ivar knows. Vee communicates with him, but we're trying to keep this from the general public."

"What do you think, Fen? Should we tell Ivar?" The scrawny, clean-shaven guard asked.

Fen sneered and told his partner to close his mouth before angling his torso toward Zed. "We'll keep an eye out, petite fleur."

Zed nodded and continued on her way, but there were few more spots Axel could hide unless someone had intercepted him and invited him into their hovel. She thought of Nalani, who often wandered the courtyard at odd hours and Trinity, who adored Axel and might jump at the opportunity to lead him to a private alcove. The two of them shared living space in Athena. Zed wanted to keep the search party light, and asking around would only spread curiosity like wildfire.

She continued touring the courtyard, her naked soles sore from hurried walking. Finally, she stopped at the greenhouse gate, its series of coiling iron bars and metal flowers welded to the columns in intricate clusters. Zed lifted the latch and pushed the gate open, taking care to shut it quietly. The greenhouse where the citizens grew aloe and berries was the little-known getaway spot Axel and Vee coveted as their private paradise. Zed zigzagged through the raised beds, taking care not to trip over the irrigation hoses and climbed the wooden steps at the back of the third square house. Around another corner and through the thick blackberry bushes nestled in rectangles of sodden earth, Zed rushed to the spot under the sky where the light poured in but found nothing.

"Shit," she whispered, out of breath and reeling in the thick, tepid air.

Zed looked up to the cloudless velveteen sky, crushing disappointment wringing her heart. In a throng of shadow off to the right, a figure shifted and startled the woman backward.

A tired voice called her name.

The shady form lengthened, struggling to stand. Once it stood at its full height, the vice pressing Zed's chest disappeared. Axel hobbled into view, using the overhead pipes to help himself along.

"Axel! There you are. Oh my God, you had me so worried. Why did you leave the lab?"

"The lab? Is that where you've been keeping me?"

Zed clapped her palm over her mouth. Axel gave an elongated nod, eyes wide and accusatory.

"Is that what I am? Some kind of experiment?"

"No, Axel—"

"What are you and Vee doing? Tell me why he's keeping me locked up. Tell me where the fuck I am, Lea. Please. This place... Something about it seems wrong. It scares me."

Axel wilted against a plant bed as Zed approached and caught his elbow to keep him upright.

"Axel, don't be scared. Please, I promise you're safe. We're not trying to keep you captive. This is all difficult to explain, and you were asleep for so long parts of your memory are missing. Vee's only trying to make it easier for you to cope."

"Cope with what, Lea? Cope with the fact I'm a prisoner? That I can't sleep because my nightmares are so vivid, I feel like I'm dying? That people watch me like some sideshow freak?"

"Everything," Zed sighed. "The new world. How can we explain all this to someone who woke up in the past?"

Axel looked up through the skylights and whimpered. "Something terrible has happened, hasn't it?"

Zed, wounded from the dejection in her friend's voice, led Axel to sit on the floor, then sat next to him and draped her arms over his shoulders, resting her cheek on the thin cotton shoulder strap of his tank top.

"I wish I could say you're wrong, but I can't lie to you, Axe."

"My instincts were right. Something is very wrong. After that Ivar fella came through, I started getting this feeling you all weren't telling me something on purpose."

"Don't be angry with us, Axel. We didn't know how to tell you."

Axel leaned his head on Zed's and sought her hand to hold. She slid her fingers through his and gripped tightly. "It's okay. I get it now. I'm supposed to be here. You and me... We're meant to be together. Otherwise... Why would I see you every time I close my eyes?"

"Axel," Zed whispered. "I missed you so much when you left. I thought I'd never see you again. Now everything is different."

"I'm sorry. If I hurt you back then... I didn't mean it."

"Just don't leave me again. Please. I can't fool myself into happiness without you in my life."

"I won't leave. I can't."

"Promise?"

"I promise, Lea."

"Promise-promise?"

Axel chuckled and kissed the top of Zed's head before laying his cheek on the ruts of her braids. "Yeah. I promise-promise."

~*~

Axel and Zed laid on the floorboards and watched the stars twinkling above while the chamber filled with water vapour, obscuring the glass until the condensation evaporated. When the infinite black sky lightened to meteorite violet, Axel used Zed as a crutch to stand up. He stole a fistful of blackberries, stuffing the fruits in his mouth and mashing them until inky juice seeped from the corners of his lips. He complained about his ankle, which he'd suffered walking on during his solo excursion to the greenhouses. Zed berated him for wandering off and helped him down the steps and through the rows of potato plants, arms locked, their pace slow to accommodate Axel's injury.

A murmur greeted the pair as they approached the iron gate. A dozen villagers gathered around the entrance to witness Axel emerge with smiles on their faces. Frozen from the elated faces beaming at him, Axel pulled on Zed's arm, alerting her to the hoard of onlookers.

"Who are they?" Axel asked.

"Zee! Happy you're awake!"

"What happened to your arm, Zee? Are you okay?"

"He looks terrible."

Zed opened the gate, and the crowd dented but didn't part. "Make room, please!"

"We want to talk to Zee!"

Axel then realized the group addressed him, their wide eyes drinking in his bruised and broken state with smiles unfitting his poor condition. An overwhelming sense of worry touched his skin, and he grabbed for Zed to lead him, but they huddled around the gate until a tall head of blond hair sliced the crowd in half. Vee shouldered past, his eyes hooded and brow furrowed.

"Axel! Lea! What the hell are you doing out here? Lea, did you let him out?"

Zed frowned and drew her shoulders up. "Of course not! I'm the one who came looking for him."

"Let's go. Come on, now. Everyone make way. Go back home!" Vee barked.

"We want answers! What's happening outside the walls?"

"We'll answer your questions later," Vee said disdainfully. "Lea, help me get him back."

The trio staggered to the lab, breathless from the trek over the bowing foothills. Vee waited until they were behind closed doors to deliver a speech about how irresponsible and defiant Axel was, how his behaviour might cause unwanted ripples where the scientist required placidity. Axel hoisted himself into bed and accepted his lecture, sullen and quiet, occasionally glancing at Zed, who also wrung her wrists.

"I told you not to leave the room, Axe. Why? Why can't you listen to me for once in your goddamn life?" Vee asked.

"You're not my mommy, Valter. I can do what I want, and frankly, I don't appreciate you keeping secrets from me!"

"What are you on about?"

"Oh, don't play dumb. You've lied to me this whole time! About where we are, what's happened to me. I think you know much more than you lead on."

Vee scoffed and looked to Zed for reassurance. The girl stood still with her shoulders hunched.

"Lea, help me out here."

"Well, Vee... Maybe it's time we tell him everything. There's no use hiding the truth anymore. He already knows something's wrong."

"Yeah!" Axel cried. "I'm done sitting around twiddling my thumbs. You have to tell me what's up. How did I get like this? What the fuck happened to me, and why can't I remember anything? I don't know how I got here or who all those people are out there."

"That's the thing, Axe... We don't know what happened to you. You left, and when you came back, you were unconscious and hurt. We don't leave this place, so I can't tell you anything more than that. I didn't know if you'd wake up and certainly didn't know you'd have amnesia when you did."

Axel turned to Zed for verification, and she nodded her head regretfully.

"It's true, Axel. I wish we could tell you more."

"Then at least tell me where I am. Start there," Axel demanded.

Vee and Zed stood speechless for a moment until she sighed deeply. "Vee, maybe we should give him the postcards and his journals."

"What are you talking about?"

"You're right, Lea. Go get the box. Tonight's gonna be a long one."

Zed hauled the box of postcards and dog-eared journals into the lab and hefted it onto the foot of Axel's bed. Vee unpinned the postcards from the corkboard and offered them to Axel with a pinched smile. Zed sat in her chair while Vee laid on the floor, a long arm slung over his eyes as Axel began to read aloud from his workbooks. The three of them listened to the stories Axel had penned years before while he was in the infantry as if none of them had heard the tales. From time to time, Axel stopped narrating and glided over the lines, taking in details he should have known, but couldn't place. During these silences, Zed and Vee would look up at him to assess his emotions, whether or not the words shifted the pieces into place or made any difference at all.

Axel took in a strained breath. "Ivar and I aren't talking. He wants to be the leader on this ship, and if things don't go his way, he turns into a giant douche-nozzle," he broke into giggling at his insult. "I haven't eaten in three days, and the water supply is low. We're down to a cup a day each. It's not enough, but it's gotten us through so far. One of the guys got sick, and they've taken him below deck. He throws up constantly even though there's nothing in his gut and howls all night in agony. I swear to God I'll shoot him in the head tomorrow if he doesn't let us sleep tonight. Someone needs to put him out of his misery."

Zed grimaced, and Vee stared at the ceiling with dry eyes, unflinching from the story.

"Day six... I now know what rat meat tastes like."

"Oh, god. Ew," Zed mumbled.

Axel continued without pause. "It's not that bad when you haven't eaten in almost a week. I've set up more traps in the galley to catch the rest. If Ivar plays his cards right, I might share my rats with him, but he's still a stuck-up twat.

I'm not sure how the rats are surviving. Maybe there's food still hidden somewhere on the ship. Maybe they're eating each other."

"This must have been when you were on your way back to America...Or... Whatever you want to call this half of the world now," Vee said.

"What do you mean?" Asked Axel.

"The Unity... The government... They abolished the borders, erased the country names and burned the history books. The states became part of the North-Western Hemisphere. Same with Canada and all that. No countries. No names."

Axel seemed to accept his brother's explanation that nothing would ever be as before. The commune in which he now resided was the only tangible place left in existence. Outside the walls lay sites changed from war, stripped of home and heritage. A tightness in Axel's neck prevented him from speaking until the revelations grew too heavy for him to bear.

"What happened to everyone else?" Axel asked.

"It's hard to say," Vee whispered, then cleared his throat. "A lot of people died."

"How many?"

"Billions," Zed said.

"You mean... We're the only ones left?"

"No, we're not. There are other survivors out there, people who were meant to live through the storms."

"Storms?"

Vee sighed, the farfetched nature of their fates exhausting him before he began. "The Unity developed a way to return the planet back to its natural state. No more electronic communication, no more broadcasts or satellites or TV. After the extinctions reached an all-time high, they introduced these plants that could suck the pollution from the air quickly. They grow extremely fast and are lethal to anyone who wasn't vaccinated against the spores. One plant can release a spore cloud big enough to cover half a football field, and they breed and multiply like vermin. Even a small cluster can kill a stadium of unimmunized people in a few minutes."

"But why would they do this? Have I been vaccinated?"

Axel's questions ripped holes in Vee’s composure. Zed's stomach churned and flipped as the scientist fished for the least aggressive explanation. A gloss came over his eyes, and he avoided his brother's bewildered stare.

"No, Axe. You're not."

"Oh... Are you?" Axel whispered.

"Yeah, I am. So is Lea."

"Why? Why didn't I get vaccinated?"

"You were lost at sea with your platoon for weeks, and before that, you were overseas. They didn't immunize the troops."

"Are you telling me the government wants us all to die?"

"Most of this is widely debated. There are some theories that the Unity had a strategy in mind."

Zed lent the scientist a hand and cut the heavy topic with a smile. "Axel, you're much more special than you know. Those people out there all adore you because of what you've done for Kinderfeld. You were the only one brave enough to go out when they needed supplies. People know your name not only here but out in the world. I've seen you fight and shoot. You're a natural."

"Well, yeah. I've been shooting guns since I was a kid."

"You were a special ops sniper. More than just a good shot."

Axel warmed to the compliment. "And what about you? Are you the mercenary of my dreams?"

Zed blushed and failed to hide her pride. "Not a mercenary... But I've murked a few Scavs in my day."

"Man... I like you," Axel tittered. "Ain't she great, Vee? What a prize."

For the few seconds of silence that passed, Vee's expression darkened. He recognized the reverence pulling Axel's features, the heartfelt way Lea relaxed when they spoke. Even in the absence of memory, Axel and Zed forged a bond too strong to pry apart. He would never wish ill upon his brother, but he mourned the days past with the woman whose eyes shone like vats of golden syrup passing under the morning light. At the risk of sharing a likeness with Ivar, the king who could never quite capture the woman's love, Vee thought of what life might have been like had Axel never returned. Would Zed love him? Could she? Had he ever toed the waters of her unspoken affection? Vee cursed his stupidity the night he told her how he felt and quickly dismantled his chances before she had the opportunity to consider him more than a close friend.

As Zed stared at Axel upright in his bed with his journals splayed out around him, Vee knew it was too late to rescind his platonic claim. A victim of his own sabotage, the scientist turned from them and pushed out every last ounce of breath to make room for another stale intake.

"I think it's time I showed Axel the Crimson Yawn."

Zed nodded and left the brothers, sensing a gloomy air rising between them. Vee was much better at explaining the inexplicable. He delivered news with a needed bluntness, one Zed had never mastered. Once she left the lab searching for distractions, Vee helped his brother box up the journals and offered his elbow to guide Axel back on his feet. Amid the bleak news, Axel had almost forgotten the pain in his extremities.

They waddled to the locked chambers where the bulk of Vee's scientific discoveries came to light. Axel squinted against the bright white walls and polished floor as he followed his brother through a series of doors leading to a clear dome similar to the greenhouses he'd found, only this hollow contained a twisted swarm of redheaded plants, mouths bloody and agape. Each one stood over seven feet tall and lifted its black-spotted maw to the sky in a silent scream. Axel turned from them.

"I've seen these before, but never this many. In my dreams, there's always one growing in a container."

"You recognize them?"

"And you say these things can kill me? How is it possible?" Axel asked.

"They're a sophisticated hybrid plant. They release spores like mushrooms, and those spores become airborne. If you breathe them in, they attack your blood, soaking up the nutrients and essentially turning it into a highly acidic jelly. You burn from the inside out. Well...Dissolve is a better word."

"And you've brought me here why!?" Axel shouted, dodging backward and planting too much weight on his bad ankle.

"Don't worry! They can't hurt you from in here. The filtration system's design protects everything inside."

"I still have a hard time believing all this. You know how crazy it sounds, right?"

Vee clapped his brother on the shoulder. "Oh, I realize. Why do you think it took me so long to break the news? You try finding a delicate way to explain this to someone who just came out of a coma."

Axel became transfixed on the plants again after Vee's assurance. He shuffled to the glass and studied the roaring heads, each one slightly different than its neighbour. They resembled demons, bizarre red monsters with thick necks and broad leaves of wax. Their spiked roots toiled in the ground, gnarled and tangled in a hellish orgy above and beneath the soil. Beyond the ranks, Axel saw the roiling jungle and all its hues of green and black. The sun broke through parts in the towering trees. How he longed to feel the wind on his burnt skin and walk among the flora. Axel observed the plants for a few minutes as Vee stepped back and allowed him time to digest.

"Am I in a nightmare?" Axel met his brother's eyes and did not blink.

"Some might say that. And I'm sorry. I've dedicated my life to making things better for the survivors, but there's nothing left I can do. All we have now is the village and each other."

"And mom and dad?"

"They're gone, Axe. They've been gone a while."

The tattooed man swallowed bitterly and nodded as a wall of tears blinded him. Vee touched his brother's shoulder and shared his pain through the comforting gesture. Axel crossed his chest with his good hand and patted Vee's fingers.

"Do you mind if I spend some time alone? This is... It's just a lot."

"Of course. Take all the time you need, Axe. I'll leave the doors unlocked. You good to walk?"

Axel's voice floated below a whisper. "I’ll manage."

~*~

In the apartment, Zed held her arms out before her and swung them in half-circles, stretching her muscles in preparation for another stiff night spent on the sofa. Vee came in after dinner and found Zed flinging her limbs outward.

"Nightly aerobics?" He asked with a touch of humour, the most he could muster after a day of harsh truths.

"Just stretching out before bed. My back's been killing me."

"Oh," Vee's green eyes popped open wide. "Don't sleep on the couch, Lea. You can take the bed tonight."

"Nah, it's okay."

"No, really. I insist. You deserve a night without hanging off the edge of the cushions."

"Then where will you sleep?" She asked.

"The couch."

Zed laughed at the idea. "You're far too tall to fit comfortably."

"I've passed out there dozens of times. Don't worry about me, really. Take the bed."

"Why're you being so nice, huh?" Zed snorted.

"I've seen you in pain the last few days, and I feel bad. It's rude of me to have one of the biggest beds in this place when I don't do anything to deserve it."

"Oh, shush," Zed jested. "You've done more for this place than anyone."

"There's always the Chrysalis."

The good humour in the room vanished with Vee's maladroit suggestion. Zed shook her head and scoffed. "I'm not going to the Chrysalis. I want to stay here with you guys."

"Fine by me. You'll take the bed tonight then. Grab your blankets and go."

Zed and Vee swapped bedding and wished each other goodnight. Though she deemed herself undeserving of the luxury, when Zed crawled onto Vee's large bed and spread her limbs from corner to corner, her skin bristled with goosebumps. The scent of the sheets belonged to the man outside the room, sprawled on the sofa, long legs dangling over the arm—cotton and boyish musk, the redolence Zed had grown accustomed to except in this moment. Lying on the mattress reminded her of the hugs and closeness she'd received from Vee when Axel had fled.

She relived their days together in clips of happy memories and some not so joyful. Across the apartment, Vee recalled the same night playing in Zed's mind—their evening in the greenhouse when they'd held hands, so close together yet barred by the promises of friendship. Vee cursed himself repeatedly while Zed entertained the idea of getting together with the scientist.

Soon, Zed's thoughts slid over the night she'd spent with Ivar. If she concentrated, she could feel the fullness between her legs still. Ivar had made love to her the way couples did in films. He'd stroked her and kissed her skin, took her nipples gently between his lips and sucked until she giggled. What might have excited some left her shivering. Was one of the brothers more deserving of her love? Was she foolish to think herself so desirable her attention was a coveted badge of excellence?

What a prize!

Lea... I want you to tell me no, right now.

It's like you were made for me.

With her heart racing, Zed turned over in bed and clamped her eyes shut. Debating which of the three men in her life she wanted more made her stomach flip, yet she couldn't keep the lewd considerations from pouring into her head. In these fantasies, she replaced Ivar with Vee. Yes, he was smart and gentle and keen on her, but he'd told her not to let him cross the line, claimed he didn't want her that way despite his feelings. Vee's kind face took the place of Ivar's, coasting down her stomach, stamping her thighs with kisses from luscious lips. She squeezed her legs together and let the inevitable shift knock Vee from the picture to make room for his older brother.

The tattooed man with all his addictions and his looming depression positioned himself between her knees and grasped her ankles delicately. A murderer and womanizer leaned over her body, caging her with long limbs decorated with sparrows, weapons, chains and barbed wire.

We're meant to be together. I see you in my dreams every time I fall asleep.

Zed bit her lip when the phantom sensation invaded her. She knew not how Axel would moan or if he'd coo and sigh the way Ivar had when they had sex. She wanted very much to think Axel would treat her with respect and scorned the claims Trinity had made about his wild side. Then the obscene journal entries came to life, glowing, fanned by salacious visions. What if she didn't want to make love? What if she wanted to be taken hard and fast by a man who worshiped her? Guilt and arousal mixed in her chest and sat heavy, grinning evilly like a demon poised to possess her body.

Sleep wriggled through Zed's conjurations and pulled her under before she realized she was slipping into blackness. The cozy bed and Vee's sheets lulled her, and soon, she dreamed of ordinary things, forgetting her personal stash of pornographic thoughts. She slipped further as the moon made a lazy arc through the night sky until something touched her shoulder and jarred her from sleep with a sharp gasp.

Her scream ripped through the apartment, sending her waker toppling out of bed.

"Lea? Oh, fuck. Fuck!"

"Axel?"

In the dimness, neither of them saw each other but tasted each other's heavy breath. Soon the light snapped on, and Vee stood at the door, chest heaving.

"What the hell is going on?" Vee asked. "Axel? What're you doing?"

"Christ, I thought Zed was you. I just came to... Well, I couldn't sleep," Axel cringed. "Shit, my hand. Fuck, I landed like a sack of bricks."

Vee snickered, setting off a series of giggles. "You came to sleep in my bed?"

"I didn't mean to scare you, Lea."

"It's all right," said Zed. "Really. On any other night, it would have been Vee in here."

Axel pulled himself up by the elbows and sat on the edge of the bed, grimacing from the agony of his agitated wounds. "Sorry, guys. It's hard to sleep out there. People are watching me."

Zed scooted over and patted the part of the mattress warm from her body. "Come on. Lie down. I think we could all use a sleepover after the day we've had."

"You're not serious," Vee said with a scoff as his brother took up Zed's offer and laid down next to her.

Zed nodded with conviction. "Absolutely. You too, Valter. Turn off the light and get over here."

He rolled his eyes as he flipped the light switch. "This is hardly a three-person bed."

"Well, cuddle up, pal."

"Lea takes up a fraction of the bed, anyway," Axel pointed out.

"Is this not weird to you? Three adults sharing a bed?"

Zed moved to the center as Vee climbed into bed from the left. To her right, Axel had already sprawled and turned over to face her in the dark.

"It's no stranger than how half the people in this place sleep all piled on top of each other. Humans were meant to nest. In the wild, this is how we'd sleep."

"Yeah, but we're not in the wild," said Vee.

"Yes, we are, little brother. Have you seen it outside? We're literally in glass bubbles, in the middle of a rainforest. Now shut up, and go to sleep."

"You shut up."

"Guys?" Zed chimed.

"Yeah?" The brothers answered.

"I love you both.”

Robbed of their voices, Axel and Vee set aside their bickering to bask in the genial haze of Zed's words. Axel shifted an inch closer while Vee laid stiffly on his side, eyes wide in the dark. As though her claim was bathed in wine, they soaked in the meaning and slipped drunkenly into slumber.

Leave me a tip on Ko-Fi if you’d like to support me!

@dreamtherapy @reinamysterio @skarswhat @mightbelindsey @sexual-rendezvous-blog @billskarsgardx @michaeliskindahot @tigers-pat @rainbowmoosie @tinygayfungi @pancake-blonde @bskarsgardlove92 @sarah2057 @ohcaptains @loveforbillskasgard @vikingsmania @billdreamy69 @lordeofther1ngs @theredheadsbookcorner @1-800-imagines @readsalot73 @nicolehoran-maybe @weirdlilwitch @enchantedreadersworld @allkundsofwrong @loey-bae @bill-istvan @army-crawl-andersen @sunshineandskarsgards @beyond-the-ashes @whoplansthese @evaolii-blog @frappylou @alylanaeblack @billullabies @bohemianfortunes @moondustmemories @terry2227 @queen-see-ya-in-valhalla @alltimesamantha @amelia-in-w0nderland @thestonerosas @skrsgvrd @sorryimviolet @tweakersqueaker @inforapound @eff1ngqueen @skrsgrd-my-boi @rekdreams-fandom @b-afterhours @anastasiaskarsgard @ainatirb-j @voodoo-queen @quiche-pocket @awkward-haux @thorins-queen-of-erebor @skrsgardspam @tumblingdwntherabbithole @xbuckxnastyx @skadithegoddess @whiskeyxinxaxteacup @calumculia0 @bethskarsgard @ohhoneyaaaaaaa @ziamhathrisen @tgrrose @didiintheblog @bitchwelcometoparadise @maggiescarborough @anacerta @dangerous-like-a-loaded-pistol @spitch0 @grandpa-sweaters @mycrimsonsparrow @scxrsgxrd @angelofthorr @xceafh @dragsraksllib

(If you would like to be tagged or have your tag removed, please let me know!)

[fanfic-me-up]

Insecure s/o with short hair || Headcanons

This is a lovely request! Thank you for the awesome idea @bitweird1​

I can relate to this so hard that I wrote Midoriya’s based on my experience with a haircut that went wrong. I cried with my mom in the car for like half an hour 😂 

I hope you like it! I’m sure you look lovely with your haircut 💖

Midoriya Izuku

He’s very supportive of you changing your hairstyle! 

Will listen to you ramble as you scroll through hair inspiration pics.

“You’ll look beautiful either way, Y/N.”

He’ll take you to the salon and wait while you get your haircut. He’s the No. 1 pro-hero, but he’ll always make time for his girl. 

Oh no, did you really ask for it that short?

Your hair painfully stays put no matter how you ruffle it. 

It’s just hair, it’ll grow back. You repeat, but that doesn’t stop the lump in your throat from surfacing.

Izuku drops the magazine he’s holding to stand, his eyes roaming your face with a sense of wonder.

“Wow, Y/N, you look…”

“I know.” You look down to hide the tears welling up. It’s bad enough you hate your hair, but you can’t stand the thought of Izuku hating it too.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” Izuku brushes your hair behind your ear, but it’s so short that it falls back in your face again. 

The tears threaten to fall and you don’t want to make a scene so you grab Izuku’s hand and drag him to the car.

You ramble about how bulky your head looks and how you won’t be able to style your hair anymore like you used to.

And poor Izuku looking like a confused puppy bc you look freaking gorgeous?

“Okay please slow down, babe, I have no idea what you’re talking about, it looks great!” 

“I’m bald, ‘Zuku, it doesn’t get worse than this!” 

“Would it make you feel better if I showed you the pictures my mom took when I cut and dyed my hair like All Might’s?” 

You sniffle, “…maybe”

Okay, you know you’re being over-dramatic, but it’s gonna take a while for your hair to grow back and you’re dreading the whole awkward phase where your hair is neither short nor long.

Izuku makes it his personal mission to make you feel comfortable in your own skin again. we all know this boy doesn’t know when to quit

He will put his research skills to the test, scouring the internet for ways to make your hair grow faster and different hairstyles to try.

Be prepared to experiment!

Izuku is gonna raid the pantry, combining different ingredients to make hair masks!

 If it doesn’t work, he will jot it down in his notebook dedicated to you and move on to the next combination.

Spa night will become a regular thing!

Thanks to Izuku’s big brain and hardwork, your hair grows back in no time!

But you kinda miss your short hair bc spa night was bonding time for you and Izuku.

He surprises you when he comes in with a sheet mask on his face and hands you one of your own.

Just because your hair grew back doesn’t mean spa night is over!

Todoroki Shouto

You decided to take the plunge and get a pixie cut!

All the girls compliment you when you walk in.

“Girl, you look hot!” Mina gushes.

“I’m so jealous! I wish I could pull off a pixie cut like you!” Ochako says.

You blush and thank them for their kind words.

Todoroki stops in his tracks at the sight of you.

Will he love it? Will he hate it?

“Beautiful.” 

That one word sends your heart for a loop. 

But your confidence is shattered when you and Todoroki go out the next day and two guys on the street make some rude comments.

“Which one of ya’s the dude?”

“Nah, man they’re both dudes!” 

They hold their stomachs, laughing at their sad excuse of a joke.

Your hand grips Todoroki’s tight, scared that if you let go you might have a breakdown right here in the middle of the street. He gives your hand a reassuring squeeze before setting his gaze on the two jerks. 

“Say that one more time.” 

His eyes narrow as he conjures unforgiving shards of ice from his right side.

The two guys run away in fear.

Since that incident, you feel the overwhelming urge to throw a cap on and hide the hair you were once so confident in.

You ask Todoroki when you’re checking your hair out in the mirror if he prefers you with short or long hair. 

“I prefer you.” 

Todoroki is clueless about how to address the situation. He misses your confident persona and your carefree smile.

The whole week you feel like someone’s watching you; following you to class - and you must be going crazy because you swear you see camera flashes. How creepy if someone’s taking pictures of you... 👀

You walk to your dorm after class, prepared to watch movies all weekend, when you spot a photo album sitting on your bed.

What the heck is a photo album doing on your bed?

You flip through it to find photos of you. They must’ve been taken from a distance and would explain the weird feelings and camera flashes. 

“So I wasn’t imagining it…”

You see yourself smiling with Mina and Ochako in the lounge, laughing with Kirishima and Kaminari during lunch, and you smirking when you landed the winning blow during a training exercise with Bakugou. 

“You like it?” 

You jump and turn to find Todoroki watching you intently. 

Oh thank god. You were kinda scared there was a serial killer after you.

“Um… I appreciate the gesture? But… why?”

“To show you how pretty you look.” 

Todoroki flips through the pages and shows you the different pictures, pointing out what he likes about each one.

“There’s no reason for you to be insecure, Y/N, look at you, you’re beautiful.” 

You’re touched at the effort Todoroki put into proving how much he adored you, even if the execution was a bit weird. 

“Thank you, Shouto, I… I needed this.” You wrap your hands around his neck and peck his lips.

“You’re welcome, Y/N.”

“But we do need to talk about you taking pictures of me like a stalker.” 

Todoroki cocks his head like taking pictures from a distance without your consent never occurred to him. You shake your head and smile at his cluelessness. 

You pull him down for another kiss and when he runs his fingers through your hair; it brings a smile to your lips.

Kirishima Eijirou

You’re not one to back down from a dare.

“You’re gonna regret it,” Kirishima says.

“Bet!”

Yeah… you regretted it the moment you looked in the mirror, Kaminari’s reflection looking sheepish with a pair of scissors in his hand. Tufts of hair, your hair that was just on your head a moment ago, now on the floor.

You know those scenes in movies where someone screams and each shot zooms further and further out until they’re screaming so loud it can be heard from outer space? Yeah, that’s basically what happens.

Everyone rushes down wondering who the hell got murdered in the middle of the night. 

Bakugou calls you an idiot, Midoriya gives you words of encouragement, and Aizawa-sensei is just… done. 

Kirishima will 100% help you style your hair. He knows more about hair than all your girlfriends combined. 

He even convinces you to dye your hair bc why not at this point. But you’re not sure since you’ve never dyed your hair.

“Do you trust me?”

Well, you can’t argue with that.

Oh and if anyone tries to come for you about your hair, you bet Kiri will shut that down real quick. He’s not taking shit from anyone, especially when it comes to you.

Kiri loves to leave you little notes every morning with positive quotes like “Remember to smile!” or “You can do it!” They’re cheesy, but it gives you a confidence boost needed to get through the day.

This boy knows more about dealing with one’s self-image than anyone. He will be there for you every step of the way. If you need to rant, he will listen. If you need to cry, he’ll offer his shoulder. If you need encouragement, he’ll whisper sweet nothings into your ear until you believe it.

He’ll play with your hair and you let him style your hair for fun with gel until it's spiky like his. 

It makes you realize that it’s only hair and it’ll grow back. May as well have some good laughs so you have a fun story to tell later in life 😊

[spahhzy]

No Title -Chapter 2: Headache.

*Dimension 63 OG*

"Last of the pancake stacks are done, seriously I could bring in three pancake factories and she'd eat them out in a week!"

"Anyways...uh where were we? Oh right the explosion and what came after...ah yes Cinder sulked for a few minutes after a reality check from Watts."

"Jaune, Yang, Emerald, Ren and Oscar all survived the explosion and learn that Ozpin is indeed alive...hmm ooh and the warm tender reunion ah was so nice to see...but sadly...the warmth didn't last long..."

.

.

.

"I have always promised to defend this kingdom; its technology its future...from those who'd see it destroyed" Spoke Ironwood on the monitor almost towering above his viewers.

"Our enemy is crippled but one individual denies Atlas its salvation...the protector of mantle" Ironwood says as the Ruby and Co, glare at the screen.

"Penny wherever you and your friends are I need you to listen" he starts looking down in a brief sadness.

" I know how much Mantle means to you so im going to give you a choice..."

.

.

.

" in all actuality it wasn't really...much of a choice Mantle is doomed be it by Ironwoods hand Or Salems...though I feel for the latter as things were spiraling out of control..."

"General Ironwood reminds me of a certain analogy....oh how'd it go again? Ah yes!"

"When a duck swims ontop of water you only see it glide apparently effortlessly across the lake"

"But underneath as in beneath the surface well its a whole different story its legs are moving like he's peddling a bicycle up a fucking mountain!"

"That's Ironwood, he is THAT duck"

"Let's go to the manor hmm?"

.

.

.

"I'm glad your alright" Spoke Ren to Nora as looked away from him as Jaune arms glowed with his aura trying to heal his teammate.

Nora said nothing.

A few more moments of silence followed before Jaune gave up.

"Sorry but no matter how much I boost you they...won't go away" He told her before kneeling down at her bed side, Ren at the edge of the bed still looking down.

"Don't apologize I got hurt doing what I always do...just another ditzy move from Nora" Nora spoke as she sat up from the bed back resting against the bed frame.

"T-that's not true" Ren said as he stood up, Nora still didn't look at him.

"How would you know?" She said her voice cracking a bit.

"We were supposed to be a team but that didn't matter to you!" Her voice rose as Jaune brought his head down as she continued her verbal assault with Ren.

"When things went wrong you pushed us away!" Ren looked down to the floor again away from Nora.

"You shoved people out so you don't have to feel things that are hard!" She said before laying back against the bed frame finally stopping as Ren processed.

"You're right" He finally said

"I should be apologizing to both of you...when we lost Oscar and things got difficult I said terrible things" Ren said as he sat down at the end of the bed again.

"I've just been so angry at myself for not being as good as the aceop's...."

.

.

"Ah a little lovers quarrel but his anger and frustrations are understandable...I too felt what he was feeling before"

"Its was good that he was able to talk about it apologize to those around him and forgive himself...yes Lie Ren you certainly are a very good friend"

"Unfortunately..."

.

.

.

"My biggest failing was as a teammate and a partner" Ren said as he looked into Nora's eyes and vice versa.

Jaune just looked back and forth between them realizing that they were about to have a moment...

"Haha! All water under the bridge buddy!" He states before walking to the door that leads out to the hallway.

"I'm gonna go see if Klein needs help with Penny" He says looking behind him as both Nora and Ren didn't even pay attention. He smirks before closing the door.

Jaune now standing in the hallway chuckles.

"They'll get through this" He said to himself as he looked down the hallway

"Which way was Penny's room again?" He said laughing before suddenly a massive headache came to him that it made him close his eyes and clutch the side of his head. The throbbing was intense as it brought him to one knee.

"-me -om-" a whisper or what he thought was a whisper but it wasn't clear because of the damn pounding in his ears.

Jaune gradually through the pain stood up breathing a bit heavily before finally taking his hand away from his face, he'd find some advil in the bathroom.

Yet when he looked around he was no longer in the hallway...much less in the schnee manor.

He was standing on a grassy field...he looked around but all it was was just green grassy plains and big cloudless sky...a mountain range way out in the distance as well.

He continued looking until he stopped as he realized...he wasn't alone.

There about thirty five yards away was a robed figure Jaune couldn't make out any details as the light from the sun was blocking them out.

"What the?..." Jaune thought as he walked forward and as he did so to did the mysterious figure.

That caused Jaune to stop and momentarily reach for his blade...but all he grasped was air.

"Who-" He didn't get far as suddenly the scenery changed rapidly as now gone was the grassy plains, but now a quiet little village...

"Wha? Wait...this is...Ansel? My home?" Jaune said as he was freaking out a bit...wondering if something/someone might have drugged him or such.

"But wh-"

"Look Auntie! I'm a knight who's come to rescue you!" Spoke a voice which caught Jaune's attention as he looked to the source.

There was a little blonde boy no older then six. with a makeshift wooden sword and woman dressed in black who was chuckling at the boy.

"Oh my brave little knight has come to rescue me what a dream come true!" Said the lady playing along as the damsel as the blonde boy slayed the evil imaginary dragon and approached the lady.

He dropped his wooden sword and ran in to the lady's stomach giving her a tight hug. The lady just hugged him back with equal affection.

"Mom and Dad don't like you very much" The boy said too which the woman said nothing.

"I don't want you to go..." He said in despair.

"I'm not going nowhere little knight I promise" said the lady with strong conviction.

"...om" he mumbled in her stomach.

"What was that...no mumbling now" She chuckled.

"I wish...you were my mom too"

The scene then changed once more back to the grassy fields again as Jaune was still trying to piece together what he saw.

He looked ahead and the mysterious figure was still there looking straight at him Jaune still couldn't tell who it was but was surprised when the figure extended their arms...as if inviting him.

"Jaune"

The throbbing headache intensified as he once again dropped to a knee.

"Jaune"

Weakly he tilted his head up to see the figure closer to him and all he could make out were red eyes.

"Jaune!"

The figure still with open arms started to speak but Jaune could make out a word of it.

"Jaune!!"

He was back in the hallway still on one knee and clutching at the wall for support.

He looked up to see the concerned face of Klein looking down at him.

"Are you alright Mr. Arc? You look unwell" Klein said as he offered his hand to help.

Jaune looked around still confused, though the headache had just vanished. He took the hand and stood up.

"Uh it was nothing serious Klein..." Jaune said to him but it didn't really convince Klein or even himself for that matter.

"Heh come on let's go check on Penny and ill help where I can" Jaune said as he dusted himself off.

"Are you sure your okay Mr. Arc I can get you some refreshments if needed" Klein offered but Jaune shook his head.

"Penny needs us first let's go help her right now...I'll be fine" Jaune told him to which Klein looked him in the eyes before walking forward.

"Very well...I take it was just a big headache...who wouldn't have such after whats been going on" Klein said too which Jaune chuckled before looking out the Schnee Manor back to city and the rising sun.

"Yeah...just a big headache"

.

.

"But it was so much worse then that"

[revisitedgrunt]

Motherland: Fort Salem. Episode 1x05: Bellweather Season.

Being completely honest with y'all, this episode ruined me. It's taken me a while and several rewatches to sort out my thoughts and feelings. Now I want to talk about it. I'm going to go scene by scene, so this isn't a rambling stream of consciousness. This will be very long and image heavy.  

I find the Unit's dynamics interesting. We've seen them get closer and work together better, but Raelle and Abigail both have strong personalities, and very different life experiences. One wrong word can immediately start a fight. Abigail uses the phrase “the community that matters”, which is incredibly elitist. Raelle, rightly, takes offence and ends up storming out.

The first Raylla scene of the episode. Scylla combines some minor manipulation, which is an attempt to get invited to the wedding with, in my opinion, a real story about her past. I believe everything Scylla has told us about her past. Porter confirmed that her parents died, and in the last two episodes we've seen Scylla start to open up with Raelle. They talk about running away, and less than five minutes into the episode, we get this.

I may, or may not, have let out this really unflattering squeal. Part of me is still amazed by this relationship. Every week I think we've hit the limit on how awesome it can get, and every week I'm proven wrong.

Raelle making a bird skull charm for Scylla is so sweet. I think Scylla's linking spell is going to be very important in the episodes to come. I do wonder if the mark is permanent. I hope not, just for the fact that Scylla permanently marking Raelle, without her permission, is not a nice thing to do.

We get another kiss and Raelle cups Scylla's chin again, which I am a big fan of.

You can see Scylla smiling when she enters her room. She genuinely likes spending time with Raelle. With the way she caresses the bird skull, we can see she's really touched by Raelle's gift.

We're then reminded that the Spree is a terrible organisation, when they threaten Scylla again. I'll probably talk more about the Spree later.

Scylla pretending to be a waitress was smart. However, the smarter play would have been to stay undercover until it was closer to 6pm, as she would have avoided unwanted attention. How much of this was a mistake on her part, and how much was it wanting to spend time with her girlfriend?

I love the lingering fire effect in the hair. It's such a cool detail.

Scylla's adorable little “Hi!” added 10 years to my life.

Raelle being super excited to see Scylla and the banter about the “corsage” was very cute. Raelle proves, once again, that she's a great girlfriend by introducing Scylla to the Bellweathers.

We get more confirmation that Abigail doesn't like Scylla, calling her “Another shitbird.” I believe her antagonism towards Scylla is because she thinks she's a distraction. Abigail thinks if Scylla wasn't around, Raelle would be more invested and involved in the Unit. However, we know this isn't the case, if it wasn't for Scylla, Raelle wouldn't be trying at all. Abigail should be thanking Scylla.  

I love world building so I thought the wedding was really interesting. We find out that weddings are a contract that lasts for five years, which explains Abigail's different fathers. I think families like the Bellweathers think this is a way to strengthen their bloodline. The women can have several babies with different fathers, which helps expand the family. I think civilian weddings are still for life. Raelle's mom and dad were still together when Willa died.

What makes a believable relationship for me, is the small things. Not great declarations of love, but how they stand next to each other, how comfortable they seem together, how they look at each other and when they reach for each other. This was a great example of that.

I thought the scenes of Abigail trying to corral her unit were hilarious. She's desperately trying to make a good impression, and they unintentionally embarrass her every time. Scylla's “They have lobster.” and Tally's gasp gave me a good laugh.

Our first scene of Raylla dancing. When I saw the pictures I thought it would be a one and done deal. I should know by now that Motherland: Fort Salem always goes the extra mile when it comes to their wlw couple.

Raelle putting a protective arm in front of Scylla, starting down Anacostia and telling her “She goes where I go. Scylla's my girlfriend.” Just... wow. That was hot. And to illustrate the point, she gives Scylla a long, lingering kiss.

Anacostia v Scylla, round 2. I think Anacostia is incredibly cool, but I'm always gonna have Scylla's back. Scylla tries to protect Raelle and takes the heat for their relationship. Seeing her sass Anacostia was pretty amusing. Then she immediately grabs some drinks.

I'm not sure why Anacostia has a problem with Scylla. Is it the same reason as Abigail, or something different? Is Scylla not a good cadet? Does Anacostia think Scylla will hinder Raelle's performance? Scylla was right though, Raelle did start trying because of her. We also know Raelle is almost always boosted because she's having sex with Scylla.

Jessica Sutton's expressions this episode were perfection.

Every Raylla scene warms my cold, dead heart. How cute are they about the “girlfriend part”! And Scylla dancing Raelle onto the dance floor! And the way Scylla keeps eye contact with Raelle! I just can't!  

Look at the smile Scylla gives Raelle!!!

This is a pretty upbeat song and you can see the other dancers energetically dancing. But Raylla are just slow dancing, wanting to be as close to each other as they can. You can also see Raelle has this soft smile on her face. The amount of care and detail Taylor and Amalia put into their scenes together, never fails to amaze me. It's so obvious they want to make this relationship as believable as possible.

Gerit got engaged before Baltane, went to the festival thinking he'd hook up with a girl and give her a power boost, and fell in love. He really does try to tell Tally he's engaged. I just feel sad for the both of them. I'm not really into heterosexual ships, but they were cute. I wonder if this is the end, or if Gerit will break off his engagement. Seeing Tally cry hurt, a lot.

Abigail gets smacked in the face with her privilege. For how different the universe of Motherland is to our own, some things are still very much the same. The rich and powerful will get all the opportunities, whether they deserve them or not. I do respect Abigail for wanting to make it on her own merits and not coast on her name.

I really admire Raelle's courage. She's a first year cadet, but she marches up to General Petra Bellweather and demands answers about her mom. She doesn't get them. Like any good politician, Petra deflects and heaps praise on both Willa and Raelle. It takes the fight out of Raelle, but made me even more angry.

Ashley and Bernadette did a really good job conveying Abigail and Charvel's relationship in the time they were given. They are cousins, but you see they are close and I got a sibling vibe from them. With the advice Charvel gave Abigail throughout the episode, she came across as an older sister. This makes me wonder if Abigail does have actual siblings. Given what we know of the Bellweathers, it would surprise me if Petra only had one child.    

Scylla does a really bad job of checking the bathroom.

It's telling to me that Scylla tells the balloon “I need to know she will be safe, once I get her there. Should I wait with her?” I've always believed Scylla had genuine feelings for Raelle, and this is more confirmation. The balloon is clearly not a Raylla shipper.

Tally sees the balloon, and Scylla's cover is blown. I did not expect this to happen so early in the season, or for it to happen this way. Motherland keeps me guessing.

With 5 minutes left to get Raelle to the extraction point, Scylla sees a downhearted Raelle. She makes a half-hearted attempt to complete her mission, but there's no conviction there. She doesn't want to do it. When Raelle asks if they can dance instead, Scylla could have tried to convince Raelle to go for a walk, she didn't. She chose to dance with her. Scylla was scared, Scylla knew she was going fail her mission. She had to make a choice, The Spree or Raelle. She chose Raelle.

Tally telling Anacostia about Scylla was smart. I briefly thought that she might tell Raelle, but that would not have gone well, and doing it at the wedding would not have been the right time. Now Scylla's number one fan has a legitimate reason to not like her.

And now we get to the scene that killed me. I'm not gonna lie, I cried. I don't really get emotional about TV shows, but I've really come to love Raylla and this hit me hard. As soon as that song started playing, I knew I was in trouble. I started to choke up when Scylla remembered the times she'd spent with Raelle. My eyes started to water when I saw how scared she was she'd missed the deadline. When she told Raelle she loved her, I totally lost it. Raelle's smile was the last punch to the heart. I was a complete mess by the end of this scene. We leave the scene with Scylla looking incredibly sad.

This was Scylla saying goodbye to Raelle. She knows she can't stay at Fort Salem, she knows the Spree will come for her. If she doesn't run, she's as good as dead. I really hope that this episode alleviated any doubts anyone still had about Scylla. It is now absolutely clear that she loves Raelle.

Fortunately the next scene was much more upbeat and light hearted. Joking, we find out Charvel has been murdered, brutally. Most of her throat has been cut out. The effects were excellent and very gory. Abigail is ambushed by two Spree members and we see that they can nullify a witches abilities, when Abigail tries to Windstrike them and nothing happens.

Things go from bad to worse.

I'm not sure if this was always the plan, or a backup in case Scylla failed. My opinion was this was always the plan, and was set up to distract people so they wouldn't realise Raelle and Scylla had disappeared.

The witches summon a tornado and disable the balloons. The tornado looked pretty big and I thought back to the witch in episode 1 who was controlling 6 tornadoes at once. That seemed pretty powerful at the time, but I remember them being small, so I assume if they combine their power, they can summon bigger tornados.

Petra finds Abigail just in time to stop her daughter getting murdered.

During a well choreographed fight scene, we are reminded that these women are soldiers. Even without “the work” they are trained in hand to hand combat. We see both Abigail and Petra are good fighters. Abigail has a very badass moment here, after getting stabbed, she pulls out the knife and uses it on her attacker.

The Spree members set themselves on fire, so they can't be questioned, which is par for the course for fanatics. I had expressed sympathy for the Spree before. I said their cause was just as they were trying to liberate witches. I even understood them killing civilians, the civilian Government is the body forcing them to join the army, or be hunted. However, it now seems the Spree are equally terrible towards other witches. They brutally murder Charvel, a fellow witch and threaten Scylla's life if she doesn't do exactly what they say. At this point I say screw the army and the Spree, I want the Unit and Scylla to form a third faction.

In all the confusion, Scylla disappears. I think we’re meant to believe that she ran, but I think it’s more likely Anacostia grabbed her, as she is noticeable absent during the Spree attack. I think Scylla is probably in some secret dungeon at Fort Salem, and we'll get to see just what that mark she put on Raelle actually does.  

The episode ends with the Unit comforting each other.

It's interesting that in some way, each member of the Unit experienced a loss this episode. Abigail lost her cousin, Tally lost her first love and some of her innocence, and Raelle lost the girl she's fallen madly in love with. Hopefully they'll continue to support each other as they heal.

The sheer amount of Raylla in this episode was unbelievable. I don't think I'm exaggerating when I say their scenes from this single episode, would probably cover 6 episodes on any other show, if we’re lucky. I'll keep saying it, I have never seen a show give a wlw couple this amount of time, care and respect. 

It seems like we may not see them together for a while. I'm OK with that. We've had so much content over the last five episodes, more than I have seen in any other show. And remember, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Imagine the amazing scene we'll get when they reunite. Taylor and Amalia will knock that out of the park.

I thought this was the best episode so far, and one of the best hours of TV I've ever seen. This had the perfect mix of world building, humor, sadness, tenseness, action and romance. This show is such a gift and I can never thank the cast and crew enough for it.

[dakotafinely]

STORY TIME: HOW I ENDED UP IN THE HOSPITAL FOR 4 DAYS!!

[Trigger Warning: Throw up mention, diarrhea mention, hospital stuff, nothings super graphic but I feel like I detail things enough that it could trigger someone so here’s the warning because I care about you guys]

TL;DR: I got an extremely bad stomach bug and the dehydration from it put me in the hospital for about four days!

Alright! Let’s just jump into it kids!

It’s starts with Tuesday. I wake up feeling horrible. Super sore throat and I feel extremely congested in my head. I call out of work, no way I can deal with 12 kids with how I’m feeling.

I actually get better through out the day. Up until about 6 or 7 pm. My mom came home with some medicine just to help me kick the sickness out of me before it could really get worse. Almost immediately after that I can’t stop vomiting and having diarrhea (luckily it was one or the other and never both, thank the Lort)

Everything I ate comes back up. I can’t keep an fluids down. About four hours into this nightmare my mom makes a deal with me. Because I didn’t want to go to the hospital and had been trying to convince I’d be okay enough to not go. She said that if I could sip on water and not puke it up for at least an hour. She wouldn’t take me.

It lasted 30 minutes.

We get to the Hospital about 10 pm and get into the ER pretty quickly. The place was basically empty with exception of staff.

Now, I should state I don’t remember much from that night. Mom says I wouldn’t stop whining because they were putting needles in me and I kept telling her how much I hated it (and her). But all I can remember was constantly asking if I was allowed to have water. Because, ya know, I was dehydrated from the constant throw up and diarrhea.

Apparently it was so bad the medicine in IV they had given me wasn’t working. They had to up the dosage four times before I could finally stop vomiting every time I went to the restroom.

All I really remember, aside from begging for water and being denied because they couldn’t be sure I wouldn’t just puke it back up. The nurse felt so bad that after I got admitted into the hospital she gave me a small, like really small, container of ice chips. I remember being so happy I was about to cry (tho I couldn’t because dehydration) and I ate them up in like, seconds.

I don’t even really remember much of Wednesday. They gave me antibiotics and with the dehydration. The combo basically knocked me out so I was only up for like an hour at a time. I remember a they had trouble taking my blood, cause they needed it for testing. But it was troublesome because my veins were so small from the lack of water.

Speaking of which! I do remember the first thing I asked for when I woke up Wednesday was for water. And my mom told me they finally allowed me to have water, since I wasn’t vomiting anymore. I have never been so happy to receive anything in my life and I will never be that happy to receive anything ever again.

Anyways, they had trouble taking my blood. So there was this Russian phlebotomist woman who came in twice. Once to check my veins, she didn’t stick me because they were to small, and tell me to drink at least two cups of water before she came back.

And you might be wondering, why bring up she’s Russian? Because having someone tell me (on the second time she came back to check my veins) that my veins were nice and good and thick in a Russian accent gave me a boost of serotonin I didn’t know I could receive from such a thing.

Mom says I was basically a zombie Wednesday. And I believe her because I literally only remember most of the afternoon of that day.

Like, literally, the Doctor comes in Thursday after I have breakfast and is talking to me right. Now, I’m like, 100x better Thursday then I was those days before. Like, the nurses would not stop telling me how different I was acting and how happy they were to see me acting better. So the Doctor was telling me how they were gonna up my diet to a solid food diet now to see if I could handle it, balance some stuff out. To see if they could get out either that afternoon or tomorrow (aka today). Now, he’s all like “now you probably remember me from yesterday morning”

... I did not. So, like, apparently around 6 am Wednesday this man came in to talk to me about stuff. My mom confirms this, he did this and I remember nothing of it. Like, I still don’t. Like, I did not recognize this man he had to reintroduce himself to me and everything. It was wack.

But yeah, so then Today rolls around and I am practically vibrating in the hospital bed asking when I can be discharged. Like, literally when they said I could be discharged I was practically running my way out of that room.

So yeah, I had  a stomach bug and I’m 99% sure I got it from my kids at work. Two of them threw up last Thursday and I had to change and clean them up. So, yeah. That was my week and why I’ve been radio silent that past three days.

[smartguyreviewed]

2x4 - Dateline

Original air date: Oct 1, 1997

Anyone who was holding their breath for me to get back to this, thank you. Been going through a lot like most people right now but I had to remember this blog is a good distraction because I get to write about one of my favorite shows growing up. Anyways, enjoy. :) 

Let’s talk about cock-blocking or to be more gender inclusive...actually, I can’t think of a term similar that utilizes both a male and female part. Anyhoo, let’s talk about it.

I’ve done it (unintentionally). You’ve done it. We’ve all had it done to us as well. Like the night you finally got a chance to be alone with your dipshit crush and your annoying friend tried to insert herself until she finally realized what was going on and left you two alone so you could have your first kiss ever at age 19.

TJ is an extreme cock blocker. He will break your shit up and then pout because he’s still just a kid. Normally, TJ only wants to punish Marcus by enacting this cruel tactic but in this episode, he shifts gears to the person who is both a mother and father to him: Daddy Flody.

We begin this episode at a supermarket. Tj is checking out cereals and Floyd is checking out dat ass.

TJ catches Floyd staring and in his precocious little way, starts asking him questions about women. It kind of reminds me of Frank from Milk Money. which is a horrible movie that I adore and you should watch it because despite a little kid befriending a prostitute, it’s still a decent 90s coming-of-age tale. And Alex DeLarge is in it.

After TJ makes his dad sweat further by asking what body type gets his penis erect, TJ comes to the conclusion that Floyd is lonely and could probably benefit from some female companionship.

Cut to TJ on an unrealistically chatty PC barking at TJ to fill in the boxes for Floyd. I don’t know about you, but if my computer kept talking to me, I’d throw it out of the fucking window. I am so glad websites that talk at you are obsolete. Apparently, this computer is also sentient because TJ pauses for just a moment too long when Marcus comes in and this impatient computer bitch asks for the rest of the info in a more demanding tone.

But because TJ was distracted, he inputs his own height instead of his dad’s and the computer announces that she’s transferring him to their little people’s section. Hey, they gotta find love too!

Marcus is skeptical of why TJ is trying to set Floyd up. Just then, Yvette walks in and asks who is using her eyeliner to write down phone messages, which I totally expect a straight man to do. After fessing up, Marcus asks Yvette to dissuade TJ from setting up his dad. Yvette then uses her soon-to-be psychology degree on Marcus and reasons that he might be a little salty because he doesn’t want another woman to replace his mom. But no, Marcus is a teenage boy and completely lacking depth until certain episodes call for it. Instead, he says he just wants the car on weekend evenings so he can try to bang his latest girl of the week. Of course, he could just be deflecting to avoid a heavy conversation but I’m gonna go with the former because Marcus is the horniest boy on the show.

Yvette decides to help TJ since Floyd has few dating options. Her plan is to beef up his personal ad by making him younger and a fan of soul food and Maya Angelou. Marcus is still not with the shits and says that nobody wants to date an “old guy with three kids.” Completely forgetting about the fact that his dad is an attractive man, this happens instead:

TJ and the gang are now making final cuts on the 130 prospects Floyd had. I mean, that’s great and all but I’m sure at least half of those women were catfishes. Then again, in the 90s, maybe there was more legitimacy since there wasn’t enough technology to hide behind? I dunno. But Floyd definitely has some options.

While deliberating who will receive the clock from Floyd, Marcus makes what would be considered a transphobic comment questing if some of them really are women and how he doesn’t want Floyd to end up like Eddie Murphy. Mo, on the other hand is questing if this is even legal. Mo is a teenage boy and is probably likening it to what Tinder now is: a place to meet horny individuals.

Yvette thinks the ladies are good picks but then begins nitpicking their flaws, among one of them being that one of the ladies has breast implants. Because women who get surgeries to help boost their self esteem apparently don’t deserve love? Yvette is such a hypocrite as we’ll see in the future. Mo then begins taking the rejected pics because he loves older women, especially ones with perceived low self esteem. Just then, Floyd comes in the room and the gang has to cover up their dirty work. Floyd makes a bad joke and then dips out.

They eventually settle on a light-skinned natural woman named Jamie. They agree to meet at the grocery store, sot hat’s where we end up. Marcus is acting like he’s never seen pretty girls outside of school and leaves to spit game at women who just wanna be left alone so they can buy their frozen pizza and wine in peace.

Jamie sees who she thinks is her suitor and immediately is pissed because she, you know, thought she’d be meeting Floyd and not a little boy. Yvette comes over to smooth things over and convinces Jamie to meet Floyd. Well, TJ’s cute face convinced her after she was understandably freaked out. They go to meet Floyd. 

Jamie shows up and explains what happened and that she was pre-screened to make sure she wasn’t a guy. Floyd actually even gives her an up and down look before she says she passed! Pretty sure this also wouldn’t go over well today. Jamie and Floyd, however, hit it off and leave to go on a date. When they get back, Yvette and TJ are spying on the new couple to see how it went. Floyd was actually bigging up TJ and talking about how smart he is to Jamie when they got in. Aww. Floyd is proud of his son for hooking him up. Yvette is noticeably annoyed at how he gets all of the credit, but I mean, it was his idea. Yvette just helped him out. 

Upon completion of this totally selfless act to get his father some love, TJ is happy at first. Yay TJ! You’re on the right track to becoming a thoughtful human be--

Sike! TJ immediately regrets this decision once he realizes that his father having a personal life means that he won’t see him as much. TJ has a basketball game coming up that Floyd won’t be able to attend now. Yvette offers to take him but it’s not the same because Yvette is a girl and girls aren’t fun. And just like that, TJ the petty, cock-blocking asshole comes back.

The next day, TJ and Floyd are playing basketball when Jamie comes home. Floyd invites her to play but TJ is all like “bitch, wait your turn” and then Floyd puts her on TJ’s team. She then bribes TJ with the food she’s about to cook for them. He agrees but then Jamie and Floyd start flirting because duh. TJ leaves in a jealous fit, upset that this woman he hooked his father up with has the gall to want to spend time with him. He simulates what he wants to do to her body on a bag of Funions.

I have to say though, how long was the frame of this episode? Days? Weeks? Jamie has essentially become their stepmom. She’s even giving Marcus advice on how to treat a girl like a human being instead of a meat popsicle with titties. Yvette and Marcus then leave, allowing Jamie and Floyd their Blockbuster and Chill time with The Preacher’s Wife.

But TJ is a boner detector because as soon as Jamie and Floyd are about to mash faces, TJ whimpers for his pa because he doesn’t feel good. We think Floyd banished him to his room but then TJ comes over and pushes the two would-be lovers apart so he can ruin their night. Jamie eventually decides to leave, even though it’s clear she was holding out in case she could get a piece of Floyd but TJ completely squashed that possibility. Floyd actually whines when Jamie says she’s leaving. Aww. Floyd is lonely. Does TJ care? Of course not. 

TJ sounds perfectly fine when he says he’s sorry he ruined the night. Father and son decide to just watch the movie together instead.

The next day at school, Marcus is spitting his game at the girl he went on a date with. Turns out, treating women like actual people has been working well for him! He’s even going on a second date. Yvette comes by to let TJ know that she’s picking him up again. TJ is, of course, pissed because Jamie had come over to the house the night before, albeit dick-less. Yvette has to explain to TJ that when you date someone, the goal is to see them frequently and that he’s the reason their last date sucked. She then shatters Marcus’s dreams by letting him know that Floyd is taking his car on his date. Guess Marcus is gonna have to make out on the bus.

TJ’s lips are all puckered because he’s losing his father to another woman. He’s so distressed that he actually picks a fight with a senior. Mo steps in and literally drags TJ home. No, seriously. He carried TJ like a bag of groceries all the way to the Henderson house during school. Then he transformed into a therapist to get to the root of TJ’s outburst. This is during school hours. Mo skipped school to bring TJ home and give Floyd advice. Mo is amazing.

TJ is playing basketball with himself when Floyd comes in and then he spills that he’s sick of Jamie. Floyd reminds TJ that he’s the one who set them up and I guess TJ didn’t know things would actually change. Now would have been a good time to mention if he feels some way about another woman besides Yvette playing a maternal figure in the wake of his mother’s never explained death. But Floyd does a good job as usual and says this is temporary because when TJ is a teenager, he won’t want anything to do with Floyd. TJ finally stops being a prick and Floyd offers to be careful about how he schedules his time and then continues the basketball game he let Jamie interrupt previously. Aww Floyd. Too bad TJ is probably going to hold onto this for a while because he was giving his dad a lot of shit in the end credits. This isn’t even the last time he does this to Floyd and we never see Jamie again, so I guess it’s safe to assume that TJ killed Jamie. 

Things I noticed:

- Can we just take a moment to appreciate how hot Floyd is? How could Marcus ever think his dad wouldn’t be able to attract women?

- This brilliant cover for the gang if Floyd came in during the date deliberation:

- Marcus doesn’t want Floyd to go out on dates because he wants the car to himself on the weekends. He says if Floyd starts going out, he’s making out in the back of the bus. Yvette then says, “No, thanks to Rosa Parks, you can make out anywhere on the bus.” Brilliant retort. I really hand it to the writers of this show.

[therainroguefanfiction]

🏐 Dislike; Takanobu Aone (Sportember #021)

📑 Table of Contents | ⚾ Challenge Post

Genre: School, Fluff, Slice of Life

Word Count: 2,466

Pairing: Reader x Aone

World: Haikyuu!!

Prompt: “I dislike sports.”

Sport: Volleyball

Author’s Note: This is my first time writing for Date Tech so I have no idea if I got their personalities right but hopefully it’s okay! ^~^)/

━━━━━━༻🎾_🏀_🏐༺━━━━━━

The first time Aone ever saw you was when you appeared at their volleyball practice one afternoon, searching for the timid captain, Moniwa. While you appeared attractive to him, he didn’t pay you much mind, far more invested in volleyball than dating. Still, you were intriguing to him, often keeping to yourself or speaking with the captain.

After seeing you that first afternoon, he started to notice you more around the school, even seeing you a couple of times on your way home. And for some reason, he found himself watching you more than he was willing to admit, observing the way you interacted with the world around you and how you avoided the people because they annoyed you. It wasn’t long before he had learned all of your ticks and habits.

You only came to practice a hand full of times and even then, you rarely interacted with the other members of the team, though you didn’t ignore them if they spoke to you, which they rarely did simply because they had no reason to. Aone, on the other hand, really did want to speak to you, to get to know you better, but he was far too shy to attempt it. What would he even say?

Futakuchi was the only one that noticed the longing glances he sent your way on those rare occasions that you joined them. He tried to convince the larger male to just say hi to you, but he refused, going back to practice while trying to act as if he weren’t sneaking glances at you. He knew that once the third years left the team to focus on their studies, you would stop coming around, as well, so he decided to fix this.

“Hey, captain?” Futakuchi approached the shorter male, his hand on his hip.

“What is it?” Moniwa tilted his head curiously.

“Can you ask Y/N-senpai to come to practice tomorrow?”

“Eh? What for?”

“I’d like to get to know them,” he responded with a bright smile, hands held behind his back. “They seem really cool.”

“Hm, I doubt they’ll agree, but I’ll certainly ask,” the captain returned the smile.

“Thank you~”

━━━━━━༻🎾_🏀_🏐༺━━━━━━

“Hah? Why would I do that?” You questioned before stuffing some rice into your mouth, staring lazily at your childhood friend.

Moniwa was sitting at the side of your desk with his lunch in front of him. “Because I’m your friend and you love me?” He pouted, poking your hand with his chopsticks. “You’ve been before.”

“That doesn’t make it any less boring,” you rolled your eyes. “I only ever attend practice when your mom comes to pick you up.”

“And here I thought you came to watch me because you wanted to support me,” he frowned.

“Me being there won’t make you improve in any way and we see each other every day. I definitely only went so I could hitch a ride with your mom.”

“Would it help if I told you that my team thinks you’re cool?” He quirked a brow before taking a bite of his lunch.

“Why? I’ve barely said five words to any of them.”

“No clue, but they asked me to ask you to stop by this afternoon.”

“Sounds boring.”

“I’ll buy you a soda.”

Your eyes suddenly lit up and you sent him a serious look. “I’ll see you there.”

He sweatdropped at your sudden change of demeanor, but he was happy to have gotten you to agree. He could only hope that you would be respectful to his team and not start an argument with them.

━━━━━━༻🎾_🏀_🏐༺━━━━━━

Futakuchi was the first person to notice you when you stepped into the gymnasium that afternoon, a bored look on your face as you sipped from a can of your favorite soda. The captain was at your side, talking excitedly about something that had happened to him in class, but you weren’t really paying him any attention.

The brunette tapped the white-haired second year on the arm before nodding toward you. “Y/N is here.”

Aone’s eyes snapped toward you, his pale cheeks dusting with pink, but he said nothing, simply nodding before returning to his pre-practice stretches.

“You should talk to them,” he encouraged. “You know they’re not gonna come here anymore once the captain leaves the team.”

Aone frowned at the thought, but he knew he would still see you around the school, at the very least.

Futakuchi rolled his eyes, sensing the boy’s thoughts. “You have the perfect opportunity to talk to them right now.”

“I don’t know what to say,” he responded softly.

“You could start with ‘hi’,” the brunette grabbed the taller boy’s jersey before tugging him over to where you had settled down on the bench, playing a mobile game on your phone. “Y/N, hello!”

You glanced up at the two before returning your gaze to the screen. “Hello.”

“Thank you for coming to support us, it means a lot,” he smiled brightly, nudging the taller boy in the ribs.

Aone swallowed the lump in his throat, body tense as his face heated up. “T-Thank you, senpai…”

You looked up at the sound of his deep voice, making him snap his gaze to the side, unable to look you in the eye. It was the first time you had ever heard him speak and, while it didn’t come as a surprise that his voice was deep, you could appreciate how calming his tone was. “I haven’t even done anything.”

“Being here boosts our morale!” Futakuchi explained, holding his index finger up. “It also gives us more motivation to win. You must be super busy, but you still come to support us when you can.”

You scoffed at the implication, amusement dancing in your eyes as you looked at him. “Sorry to burst your bubble, but you’re wrong. I’m not busy at all and I don’t come here to support you.”

The two boys exchanged a confused look.

“I dislike sports,” you told them with a shrug. “They’re incredibly boring and I don’t see the point behind them. I don’t come here to support you guys, I only come here so Kaname’s mom can take me home with them so I don’t have to walk.”

Aone’s eyes widened in surprise at the confession. You didn’t like sports? As someone whose whole life was surrounded by volleyball, he couldn’t understand the sentiment and, more importantly, he doubted a relationship could work between you. Even if you liked him back, how could he be with you knowing you didn’t like sports? How could you be with him knowing he was obsessed with sports?

Futakuchi on the other hand, just sent you a look somewhere between disbelieving and annoyed, glancing at his captain. And here he thought you came because Moniwa asked you to.

You noticed this and chuckled. “Don’t worry, he knows already. We can still be friends and not support each other’s hobbies, you know.”

“So… you hate sports then?” He questioned, glancing at the taller male but, aside from the light dusting of color upon his cheeks, his face did not betray what he was feeling.

“I wouldn’t go that far,” you responded, propping your chin in the palm of your hand. “To me, sports just don’t exist.”

Aone’s body slumped forward a bit, shoulders drooping as he lowered his head to cover his eyes in shadow.

“And if you dated someone that played sports?”

Your brow raised at the question. “Are you trying to say something, Futakuchi?”

He glanced at the taller male again and you followed his gaze, tilting your head to the side. “Not at all~ I’m simply curious.”

You took in Aone’s dejected expression and the body language he was presenting and you realized something important. With a hum, you sent the brunette an amused look. “I wouldn’t be able to answer that until I experienced it. Guess I’ll just have to wait for someone who likes sports to ask me out, then I’ll let you know.”

Aone didn’t like the thought of someone else asking you out, but he certainly didn’t feel confident enough to be the one to ask you.

“What the hell are you two doing?” Kamasaki scowled at the two from across the court. “Stop socializing and get to work!”

Futakuchi rolled his eyes at him. “It’s rude to interrupt, you know.”

“Hah?” His eye twitched at the disrespectful tone the younger boy used. “What did you just say?!”

“Are you deaf or something?” The brunette smirked, not even flinching when the older boy stomped over, getting into his face.

“Stop being a disrespectful little shit and get to practice!”

“Or what?”

“G-Guys, please…” Moniwa looked between the two boys before turning to Aone with pleading expression. The second year understood, giving a small nod before inserting his large body between the two boys, using his hands to push them apart.

Their arguing was giving you a headache so you stood up and left the gym, heading for the vending machines that sat outside the locker room. As badly as Aone wanted to follow you, he stayed put, following his team back onto the court.

━━━━━━༻🎾_🏀_🏐༺━━━━━━

You yawned loudly as you leaned against the fence surrounding Date Tech. The sun was gone, the sky a deep velvet with stars dotted across it like flecks of glitter. It was getting late now, tiredness settling into your bones. Why the hell were they practicing so damn late? It made no sense to you. Even the coach had already left the school.

You were beginning to consider just going home, but you had always been a stubborn person, so you stayed put, eyes narrowed in the direction of the school as you continued to wait. The manager was the first person you saw, quickly followed by three other members, all of whom you couldn’t be bothered to remember the names of. They smiled at you politely as they passed by, but you were too tired to return the gesture.

Finally, after ten more minutes of waiting, Futakuchi rounded the corner with Aone at his side, the latter remaining quiet as the brunette rambled on about one thing or another.

When Aone’s eyes met yours, he stopped in his tracks, eyes widening a bit. He was sure you had gone home already, so why were you waiting by the gate? Were you waiting for Moniwa who was still in the locker room with his vice captain?

“Oh, Y/N,” Futakuchi tilted his head. “What you still doing here?”

You hummed tiredly, your gaze flickering to the tall boy. “Who knows.”

“Well if you don’t know, we certainly don’t,” he scoffed before continuing on past you.

Since you lived in the same direction, you pushed away from the fence and started after him, pausing to look back at Aone who hadn’t budged. “You coming?”

“A-Ah, yes.” His cheeks burned as he took a few long strides, easily closing the distance between you, his pace slowing down when he was finally at your side. Every once in a while, your hand would brush against his, sending heat rushing to his face. He wanted to reach out and grasp your hand in his, but when he considered how you might react, he didn’t like the scenarios his brain conjured up.

“I’m surprised you’re not waiting for the captain,” Futakuchi commented, glancing over his shoulder. He didn’t miss how close the two of you were walking.

“Why would I? His mom isn’t picking him up today so I’d just be walking home even more tired than normal. Sounds like a pain to me.”

He snickered. “You’re not a very good friend, are you?”

“Never said I was.”

With a hum, the brunette pulled his phone from his pocket and suddenly gasped dramatically. “I forgot to pick up my sister! Gotta go!”

Your brow quirked up as the second year took off down the street. You didn’t even know him and even to you, that was obviously a lie. He wanted to the two of you to be alone together, that much was obvious. This only confirmed your suspicions that Aone might have feelings for you.

“Hey, Aone?”

“Yes, senpai?” He questioned softly, hand tugging at the strap of his bag as he did his best to keep his gaze forward.

“Does he actually have a sister?”

He hesitated, wondering if he should rat out his friend, but he didn’t like the idea of lying, especially not to you. “He doesn’t…”

“Knew it,” you snickered, turning your amused gaze to the tall boy. “Do you like me, Aone?”

The second year stopped dead in his tracks, face turning the shade of a cherry as the words reverberated around his brain. Had he really been that obvious? His lips parted, but no sound escaped him.

You observed him for a moment. “Just be honest with me.”

His eyes met yours and it felt like his heart was practicing for the Olympics. When he finally managed to speak, his voice was soft, not fitting his appearance at all. “I… l-like you…”

“I see,” you hummed, stepping in front of him with a grin. “Tell me something. Are you curious about my answer when it comes to dating someone that’s into sports?” Aone hesitantly nodded. “Good, because I’m curious too. Let’s find out together, shall we?”

The thought made his breath hitch, a soft smile coming to his lips despite the redness of his cheeks. “I would – would like that… senpai.”

“Good,” you grinned, slipping your hand into his own large one before tugging to get him to start moving again. His fingers laced with your own on instinct, hoping that you couldn’t feel how clammy his skin was. “You can just call me Y/N if you want. I don’t really care.”

“Y/N,” he breathed out, testing the name on his tongue. He liked the way it felt, even if it was a bit embarrassing to him. “Will you…”

“Hm?”

“A-Ah, it’s nothing…”

You chuckled, giving his hand a squeeze. He was so easy for you to read. “Yes, I will come to your game tomorrow.”

His lips slid upward as warmth filled him at the thought of you coming to cheer him on even though you didn’t find any enjoyment in sports. “Thank you.”

“You really are so cute,” you commented with a smile, biting back a laugh when his cheeks darkened again, his head shooting to the side to try and hide his embarrassment.

While it’s true that you didn’t like sports and found them to be so very boring, you felt hopeful that it would be more bearable now that you had someone to focus your attention on. A small part of you was looking forward to the match, to seeing the tall boy in action.

━━━━━━༻🎾_🏀_🏐༺━━━━━━

[alittlefoxedup]

An Unexpected Reunion p2

Hey, sorry this is late, but I totally decided to do this whole week thing last minute. I have no idea how to link posts, but I come bringing fluff.

Day 2: Omega and pup

Jason held his phone between his cheek and shoulder. He hadn’t been able to sleep knowing this call was coming. Damian only managed to call once a month. The family didn’t know, and Jason wasn’t sure how Damian was keeping it a secret. It didn’t matter as long as he kept calling.

Damian chattered away about the dog Bruce had gotten him and other important issues of eleven year olds. Titus was apparently smarter than his classmates, and Tim was sighing just to annoy Damian. His nonstop talking always rolled back around to the dog though.

Arms wrapping around his waist scared Jason more than he’d ever admit. He managed to keep his mouth shut even though Roy deserved to be chewed out. He’d been very touchy the past couple of weeks. Three missions and four months under the same roof must be when Roy gets comfortable with someone. Jason wasn’t fighting it, but he didn’t understand. Was it just how Roy was or something more?

“Ahki? Is something wrong?”

“I’m still here. I was just trying not to burn breakfast.”

Roy took the spatula out of Jason’s hands and spun him away from the slightly crisp pancakes. The shooing motion was understood but not followed. Jason couldn’t get his brain to move past Roy not wearing a shirt. His scent mixed with the pancakes and bacon was not something Jason wanted to move away from.

The smirk and eyebrow wiggling quickly changed Jason’s mind. Jason refused to boost Roy’s ego. He sat down at the island and only watched Roy’s back muscles a little bit. Jason wasn’t going to mess up his call just because Roy wanted attention.

“Mother said you’ve been working with someone.” Damian was good at asking questions without actually asking a question. It had taken Jason a month to teach him to not outright demand answers.

“Yeah, I am. I’m busy when she’s free and vise versa so she hasn’t gotten to meet him yet.”

“I doubt he is worthy of your time.”

Jason rolled his eyes. “We’ve talked about this. You don’t get to decide who I hang out with.”

“Mother says he’s an alpha. He will pursue you.”

“What makes you think that?”

“You are a qualified omega.”

“Qualified?”

“Yes. You have learned how to manage a household and defend it. You are not unattractive.”

“That’s so sweet.” Jason bit his lip to keep from laughing.

“It is the truth. Only the best alpha should have the honor of courting you.”

Jason snorted. “Uh huh.”

“I am not being funny.”

“That’s why I’m laughing. I love the way you phrase things is all.”

“I don’t understand what you find so humorous. Your worth is not a laughing matter.”

“I know, I know. Dami, I know exactly what face your making when you say stuff like that. It’s really cute.”

Damian huffed. “I am not cute. Pennyworth will be here shortly. I will speak to you soon.”

“Bye, stay out of trouble.”

Roy set down a sizable stack of pancakes and two plates. He was still shirtless when he drowned his pancakes his syrup. Jason put a reasonable amount like a normal person and tried to ignore the fact that Roy was using the bars on his stool as a foot rest. Their legs were almost touching.

“So how’s the pup?”

“He thinks I’m a qualified omega.”

Roy choked and laughed at the same time. “Oh, yes. I’ve see your qualifications and concur. Smart, gorgeous, a good cook, gorgeous, and a badass.”

“You said gorgeous twice.”

“Because you’re extra pretty.”

“Shut up.” Jason felt heat rise to his face and tried to hide it.

Roy made a satisfied alpha noise that Jason didn’t know how to describe. “So damn pretty.”

Jason tried to ignore him and go about the rest of his day. Unfortunately, Roy had been turned into a lost puppy overnight and stayed close but strangely quiet. Having someone blatantly stare at him made reading and research difficult. That and Roy still refused to put on a shirt. The house was cool enough so Jason was sure Roy had motives but couldn’t figure them out.

“Why don’t you just go see him?” Roy took the laptop out of Jason’s hands as he finally settled on what he wanted to say.

“I told you I can’t. It was the last order he gave me. I’m sticking to it.”

“What if Talia ordered you to check on Damian?”

Jason furrowed his eyebrows. “What?”

“You said Talia was your mom so you’d have to listen to her even if it went against a certain asshole’s orders. It would be an exception that he doesn’t even have to know about even though I don’t think you should follow something so ridiculous.”

“That’s a poorly constructed loophole. Not happening.”

“He’d never know!”

“I would. I don’t want to do it.”

“Jay.” Roy leaned in and held Jason’s face in his hands. “You told me you missed Damian so much it hurts. A good alpha would never do something to bring pain to a pack member. He made it clear you’re not in his pack. You don’t have to listen to him. It’s not going to convince him you’re telling the truth.”

Jason couldn’t stop his whine as he tried to pull away.

“I know it hurts. You are the most selfless person I’ve met. You can be selfish for once. I hate seeing you suffer over this. I know Talia would be happy to help. We could make him think Damian’s visiting with Talia and maybe surprise Damian at the same time. That’d be fun, right babe?”

“Yeah, it would be, but it won’t work.”

“It will. Give me Talia’s number, and we’ll figure it out while you pack.”

“You mean go now?”

Roy nodded. “As soon as Talia can do it.”

Talia could be in Gotham in a week. Jason trusted Talia’s planning abilities but was skeptical of Roy’s. There had to be something in this for Roy. Just because Jason couldn’t figure out what it was didn’t mean it didn’t exist. There was no way Roy would risk running into Dick without a very good reason.

Roy was not going to be allowed to make hotel reservations ever again. Jason liked the distance from where Talia was staying, but he had concerns about their room. Roy had only gotten one room with one bed. The couch was obnoxiously small and looked uncomfortable. There were no excuses or explanations given. The only curtesy Jason received was Roy agreeing to wear pants.

It wasn’t even a king bed. Jason was painfully aware of all two inches that separated him from an alpha who was incredibly pleased with himself. The fact that one of them had to be the adult and it wasn’t Roy was the only thing that kept Jason from kicking him.

An hour of restlessness ended with Roy muttering under his breath. Jason lowered his guard to try to understand what Roy was saying and deeply regretted it. Roy wrapped his arms around Jason’s waist and pulled him against his chest. He threw one leg over Jason’s and started rumbling. Jason hated how much it worked but slept better than he had in a long time.

Jason left for Talia’s hotel room mid morning, grateful Roy hadn’t mentioned anything from the previous night. Being cuddled into submission was not something Jason had planned. Stupid alphas and their annoying good looks. Jason shook his head. He was there to see Damian not think about how tightly Roy held him. Hopefully, Roy wouldn’t get into too much trouble without him.

Talia let him in silently. Damian didn’t notice until the door closed. He stopped pulling out things from his backpack and froze for a second. Jason managed to slip off his jacket in time for Damian to practically leap into his arms. Damian smelled like Wayne Pack. Jason set about fixing that quickly.

After a quick greeting, Damian cut straight to the point. “Why do you let an alpha scent you?”

Jason ignored the pointed look from Talia. “He didn’t scent me. We were just in close quarters recently.”

“Why would you allow him to come with you?”

Jason didn’t have an answer. Roy could have easily stayed in their safehouse. Archers didn’t always make sense so Jason hadn’t thought much of it. It didn’t really matter as long as Roy didn’t get into any trouble. Jason just shrugged and steered Damian into talking about what he’d been up to.

The day ended too quickly. It had been fun and well needed. Talia brought only the best of nesting materials, and Damian showed off his artwork. Jason had managed to get Damian smelling like pack if only for a few moments. He couldn’t go home like that or Bruce would know or keep Talia away. It might have been overkill, but Jason felt better covering his tracks.

All that was left to do was fall into bed. The room was empty when he made it back before nightfall. Jason hoped Roy hadn’t slipped up. If he didn’t hear back in an hour, he’d check the closest bars. Roy would definitely sleep on the couch if Jason had to deal with entitled drunken alphas.

Halfway through getting ready for bed, Roy walked back in completely devoid of any scent with a ziplock bag of cookies. “How’d it go?”

“Good. What’d you do?”

“Went to talk with my sponsor.”

Jason cocked his head and leaned against the bathroom door frame. “I didn’t know Killer Croc was a baker.”

“Bet he only makes frog cakes. No, I needed to do something. Alfred gave them to me.”

“What did you do?”

Roy sighed and rubbed his face. “Nothing that could be possibly linked to you. I didn’t trust Dick not to spy on Damian so I distracted him. I don’t want to talk about it. I hope the cookies make up for the room thing. I didn’t think it would be a problem.”

“You can’t just drop it at that.”

“You gonna tell me why you really saved me? If you get a secret, I get one to. I’ll tell you when I’m good and ready. Eat your damn cookies and let me sleep.”

The cookies tasted like home, but Roy’s arms felt like home.

[vampexx]

Uh oh....I used my brain again....get ready lol

DISCLAIMER: I’m going to try VERY HARD to make all this comprehensive and understandable, promise. But when my wheels are turning this fast lol I have a VERY bad habit of not being able to keep up with my own thoughts so please be patient with me as I make an attempt to translate what all is going through my head at hyper speed lol so sorry in advance. Also, for clarity reasons, discussed romantic approaches between adrien and marinette are rated on a scale of 0-100.

OK, so.

That metaphor of how kagami is like a mirror (I mean, I know kagami means mirror or whatever but that’s not what I’m talking about). Ok, well I think it applies to both of them (luka AND kagami) in a literal way. Hear me out.

First: kagami and adrien. Kagami is very strong in her approach when it comes to romance (or anything in general). Very headstrong and blunt, she won’t hide how she feels or what she thinks in any circumstances, right? Now adrien isn’t necessarily that way BUT chat noir is. His approach with ladybug was very....what’s the word....tenacious lol poor thing. He never gave up, which as adorable and as loyal as it sounds to us - the fandom, came off very strong and was received kinda poorly by ladybug to be kinda aggressive I guess? NOT SAYING HE WAS HARASSING HER BECAUSE HE WASN’T! He just didn’t want to lose hope because he was CONVINCED that him and his lady were made for each other MUCH LIKE KAGAMI and her feelings regarding adrien. So, given as of late, ladybug is really the only girl he has fully and openly flirted with. I think that, as he gets closer to kagami, he will at some point take note of her really kinda protective and territorial(?) personality. Like I’m not gonna lie, it comes really close to adriens father and his raising...possessive and territorial  because again, they were raised the same way (NOT SAYING KAGAMI IS LIKE GABRIEL BECAUSE HE IS LITERAL GARBAGE, I AM IN NO WAY SAYING THAT KAGAMI IS TRASH, EVEN THOUGH I’M NOT A FAN PERSONALLY, I WOULDN’T SAY THAT BECAUSE IT’S SIMPLY NOT TRUE) I have mentioned before that their similar raising and domestic circumstances is really something they can bond over, as they should so it will boost their relationship in a friendly way no doubt, but I think that it will likely be their downfall in a romantic way. Allow me to explain...

Yes, her social issues are because of her raising, I understand that. BUT, her raising only accounts for about half of her personality in my opinion, but I’m no psychology expert mind you. I say it accounts for half because her mom is quite clearly the same way so obviously to some degree, it’s also boils down to genetics (again, MY OPINION). Her mom is strict, blunt, strong willed and has such a confidence that it comes off as egotistical (AGAIN, NO HATE INTENDED, DON’T @ ME! BEING HONEST!) Kagami has made some improvements, I will agree with that and I also agree that she has every capability to continue to improve. However....will she ever not be the way she’s known to be? Cut and dry, strong willed and blunt? No. Why? Genetics. It’s the personality she was born with, she just wasn’t done any favors by the way she was raised, which made it worse and made her evidently unlikable and hard to relate to, thus her having no social life or social skills.

Back to adrien. He will take note of how kagami’s approach to romance can be very off putting and intense, seeing how it can rub people the wrong way. I think he will hopefully make the connection in his head, as in he will see how and why chat noir was not successful in his attempts with ladybug, and having an understanding of ladybugs perspective for a change. He will see this and recognize that style of romantic approach isn’t a good fit for him, given how gentle adrien can be on the contrary to chat noir (who yes, is gentle and just as sensitive but is FAR MORE open and flirtatious), and will then make an effort to maybe not just slow his flirting approach from a strong 100 down to a 50 but also see how since he has so many romantic loose ends emotionally, he will continue to insist that he is NOT ready for a relationship given the emotional wreck that is his heart (or at least in my opinion, he should insist because...logic lol, don’t know how else to put it). I mean understand, he has such intense love for ladybug that won’t go away, feelings for kagami that I’m personally not really convinced are romantic (at least, not on his part), and we all know the underlying feelings he has for marinette that he is doomed to have to face sometime soon. It will be nothing short of chaotic, that’s for sure.

To sum up for adrien, kagami will be his mirror for his past romantic approaches as chat noir and will decide to tone it down a bit or just pause completely after seeing the flaws that come with it. But still, it will knock him down from say 100 (give or take) to more like a 50.

Still with me? OK...half way there lol

Second: marinette and luka. Luka is definitely interested in marinette, don’t get me wrong. It’s pretty evident. HOWEVER, as interested as he has shown to be romantically via those couple of times with marinette, literally every other time luka and marinette have interacted, it’s been like 95% friendly, or at least, IT COMES OFF THAT WAY** (hold that thought ok? Remember that). So Luka reads as a confusing character for me because, yes he has made it clear that he likes marinette via small, less intimidating approaches, but he still otherwise kinda comes off to me as also somewhat....disinterested(?)(for lack of a better word). What I mean is this, he said nice things in silencer and felix, I agree with that too, but really that’s all he has done pretty much lol if we’re honest. Like marinette, his romantic approaches however meaningful and sweet they were, were still very few and far between. Otherwise, it’s been seemingly a completely friendly relationship, which THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH (DON’T @ ME OK?). That’s what I mean when I say that he comes off as interested and somewhat disinterested at the same time. Like, to me, it’s this kinda vibe: if you like me, cool / if you don’t like me, cool lol. That’s what I mean when I say disinterested, as in, he could go either way (either being with marinette or not) and he be completely cool with it and HE HAS CONFIRMED THIS in felix. It’s confusing to marinette because he’s not really vying for her attention which explains why she said in the marinette on luka video, that she can’t stop thinking about her feelings for adrien, even with luka (I mean duh, I know those feelings are also never gonna go away) BECAUSE luka’s approach isn’t bold enough in my book to really capture more of marinettes romantic attention like it kinda needs to if lukanette is gonna happen. Does that make sense? God I hope so lol.

Like adrien with kagami, I think marinette will take notes on lukas approach to be like her mirror, seeing how somewhat ineffective it can be. She will see the flaws in her approach however gentle, tender and non-threatening it may be, it just isn’t bold enough to really advocate for herself romantically like we all know she deserves. Like I said earlier, that kind of approach can come off as CONFUSING and mainly FRIENDLY** (there’s the thought I told you to hold onto). That would explain why adrien got mixed messages from marinette, one day he thinks they good friends (*facepalm*) and then the next, she seems so standoffish (granted, mainly from her nerves, unlike luka) that it kinda comes off as, again, DISINTERESTED (the same meaning written above still applies, not really giving adrien solid/ definitive signals either way) again, much like luka. 

She will note all of this and maybe realize that she needs to be a little bolder in her approach in order to properly stand up for herself romantically. She will learn that, yes she has made bold attempts with adrien (*applause*) and will also hopefully see how she may have counteracted them with some not so flattering and/ or just flat out standoffish actions. She needs to learn how to hold her ground and allow herself to be an clear option for someone romantically via not hiding her feelings (like her mom said, never apologize for how you feel) and by being very clear with her feelings from the get go for someone, as in it not being one day essentially, “I like you” to the next day being like, “What? No, I don’t like you. That’s crazy lol.” We have seen MANY examples of that, again it explains adriens mixed signals from marinette. She needs to learn how to let her and her feelings be COMPLETELY CLEAR AND VISIBLE so she doesn’t end up disregarded, confusing and walked all over like a doormat (poor baby, it’s true though). She needs to own her worth and her confidence. SHE NEEDS TO FEEL VALID AS AN INDIVIDUAL AND ADRIEN TOO.

This will essentially encourage marinette to take more risks romantically and to have trust and confidence in herself that she is worthy of love and she is very much worthy to be with who she wants to be with. It will bring her up from say a 0(-ish, like lets be honest, aside from a few certain instances, as far as her outwardly vying for adrien, it has been just her and the crickets lol) to a 50 like adrien.

See where I’m going with this?

With both marinette and adrien both at a 50, as in they both found a balanced and healthy romantic approach/ view on romance in general, they will finally be able to literally meet each other half way romantically. Does that make sense? Let me put it this way if it helps: 50 + 50 = 100?

Marinette taking more risks and having faith in her worth, adrien slowing down and analyzing his heart, also knowing his worth, it will set a solid and clear path for the both of them to meet each other half way romantically, finally. Thus paving the way for the lovesquare to implode/ reverse/ resolve...whatever and then setting up for the movie that is seemingly revolving around ladynoir and their love for each other which will then lead to a reveal (hopefully).

For further personal insight into my theories on the whole lovesquare and love rival dynamic, my link for my initial theory post is here: https://vampexx.tumblr.com/post/189482028990/just-a-thought-there-are-spoilers-in-case  Also, I have another post of mine that kinda touches on this subject that I will link next, but to warn you, it is salty. However, it is NOT salty to any one ship, it’s mainly salty towards the fandom so....it’s tagged ml fandom salt or something like that, anyway here is the link if anyone is interested at all: https://vampexx.tumblr.com/post/189856458390/alright-sorry-but-im-gonna-be-salty-real

AGAIN, I would like to remind those that took the time to read this that NO SALT OR HATE was intended in this post IN ANY WAY. I had to be open and honest for the sake of analyzing this mess properly. I apologize if anything has offended anyone but like I said, in order to put this all into words, I really had to be honest.

Hope this made sense, I put a lot of thought and effort into this, so dear God I hope so lol I’m so tired now lmao I KNOW THAT WAS A LOT I’M SORRY! THANK YALL FOR YOUR PATIENCE BUT NOW I’M EXHAUSTED.

Have a miraculous day! Love yall!