#got a stagger on him and ended him shortly after

[transshion]

BALLS BUSTED. GOD SLAIN

[katz-chow]

as many of you know, i don’t really like konig. so i present to you this: tw, implied death

deadbeat dad!konig, a widower who spends his days drinking, hooking up, and working 12 hours a day night shifts to “provide for his kid” but also get away from her because she looks too much like his dead wife. he never thought he’ll settle down and when he did, his worst fears came true, and so did the past he was trying to escape

even with military pension and disability checks, it’s not enough so he keeps working. and his daughter keeps getting ignored “for good reasons”.

at 10, she stayed after school for hours before konig remembered he had to pick her up.

at 16, she got rear ended and konig was too drunk to get her. she cried until she the police came and they called her teacher to come get her.

things only started to change when you rushed into the house, finding your ass of a dad on his recliner, a beer in his hand. the papers in your hand splashed onto his lap.

“what the fuck?” he responded, gathering the papers and throwing at your face.

“i’m leaving for basic training in a month”

he looked furious. “no you’re not”

“yes i am. i’m going to find a fucking a family there, a real one.”

he looked at you as if you just poured cold water over him while he was asleep. he couldn’t believe it. “no you’re not.”

“i am. i signed. i leave in a month.”

he grumbled but looked away at you, not having enough courage to beg you to stay, beg you to stay right where he could protect you from the world that took your mother. he didn’t have the courage to say two simple words even as his chest tightened and his breathing staggered as you started packing in your room.

when the day came shortly after, he drove you to the airport. and to his surprised, he couldn’t control his own body as it took your bag out of the car and walked you to the gate. you look at him, almost waiting for him to fix things at the last minute.

he looked at you, thinking if he was just a bit more of a better man, this wouldn’t be how you say goodbye.

“i love you, mein liebling.”

you frown as tears fall from your face. “i love you too dad.”

…

“i’m sorry.” he whispered as a thumb caressed your dogtags

[lasciviouspoison]

omg! my boyfriend is a big sexy boxer!

oh em gee, happy kinktobaaaaaa!!!!!! lmfao, here’s a small gift from me :)

i got kinda carried away with this plot line, lol. tw: tojixchubby!reader, boxer!toji, implied black/poc!reader, implied age gap (reader in early 20s, toji late 20s/early 30s), afab reader, oral sex (f receiving), pussydrunk!toji, cockdrunk!reader, hints of self insert (sorry :/ ) and anything else i might’ve forgotten! love ya, mwah!

~~~

toji fushiguro was one of the best heavyweight boxers of the current day. he was agile, extremely strong, and never lacked in stamina. he was a staggering 6’3 and was over 250 pounds of pure muscle. littered in tattoos from head to toe, toji was a force to be reckoned with.

not to mention, he was hot as fuck. almost every hour on the hour, there was someone on the internet raving about how sexy he was. he had literally gotten invited to read dirty tweets not once, but twice because of the general influx of them.

however, no one other than those closest to toji knew about you.

you, the pretty journalist who he had seen at his first press release for the upcoming fight. he was taken aback by your casualness. while the majority your peers wore ugly suits and skirts, you were simply dressed in baggy jeans and a t-shirt. your curly hair was down, slightly touching your shoulder blades and he could see the tattoos you had up your arm and neck.

toji’s mouth watered at the sight of you. he couldn’t wait for the moment in which you raised your hand to ask him a question out of those pretty pouty lips.

after the release, he made it a point to ask his manager, shiu, to call you into the back for an “exclusive interview” with the most successful fighter on the block.

and by interview, i mean toji asked you for your number and you, albeit anxiously, agreed.

and four months later, he’s been stuck to you like glue. he’s taken you on so many dates, he always pops in to see you whenever he has the time after training, and he just recently popped the question, asking you to officially be his partner.

however, toji also does the best he can to not prematurely intertwine his life with yours.

you were still a college student, finally making your way to the end of your junior year. your life was slow and steady, yet exciting. you had a few great friends who supported you through everything, yet, they still knew nothing about your little rendezvous with toji.

meanwhile, everything was about to change at toji’s most recent weigh-in. after his opponent and himself stepped on the scale, the promoters decided it would be a good idea to bring the two back out and open the floor for questions.

of course you were in the crowd, not only to support your man, which felt amazing to finally say, but to watch and learn from your mentor. however, to everyone’s surprise, toji’s opponent had an announcement to make before the questions began.

he stood up and gave the crowd and smile before pointing directly at you, “everyone see that beautiful lady right there? i’m gonna beat the shit outta this man over here and take her home with me afterwards. ya like the sound of that sweetheart?”

toji’s eyes immediately found yours and once he seen them begin to gloss over, he couldn’t help but find himself running out of his chair, attempting to prematurely pummel his opponent. while both security teams tried to hold him back, you were being escorted out of the area and into the back rooms.

shortly after, your face was all over media outlets as they attempted to figure out who you were and your association to toji.

which brings us to now.

“baby please, talk to me. m’beggin here”. toji’s been standing outside of his master bathroom for a total of 20 minutes attempting to get you to at least calm down. you had been crying since the weigh-in, refusing to see him. the only reason you were here was because shiu redirected your driver back to toji’s home without your knowledge.

“go away! go get ready for your fight and leave me alone!” you could admit you sounded childish, but you didn’t care. it was one thing to be publicly embarrassed like that, but to now have the whole world know that you were somehow connected to toji was awful. you wanted to do that on your own terms, especially since the two of you are just barely reaching the “official” stage in your relationship.

toji grabbed the locked door knob and twisted, “yn please just come out and talk to me. lemme help you, baby, please.” while toji prided himself on never begging for anything, you were an exception to the rule.

suddenly the door swung open and he was met with your puffy red eyes and lips. despite knowing the weight of the situation, he couldn’t help but feel his dick twitch upon seeing how beautiful you looked after crying. he’d be sure to tell you that later.

“there’s nothing you can do. everyone’s gonna figure out i’m your girlfriend and my life is gonna be turned upside down”. you could feel your throat begin to constrict once again. all you wanted was to crawl into a hole and never come back up.

toji stroked your hair and brought you to his chest, “i can’t make that go away baby, and i’m sorry. but what i can do is try to make this as seamless as possible for you. things don’t have to change overnight, we can still go slow”.

he could feel you shake your head, “it’s not gonna work like that toji, you and i both know that. my fucking mom has already called me to ask about us and i don’t know what to tell her.”

toji cocked his head to the side and scrunched his brows, “tell her we’re together?”

you pushed him back and little and laughed, “oh my god toji, are you fucking dense? you’re missing the point.”

he wanted to kick himself for being so careless. obviously toji knew that the situation ran deeper than the two of you simply dating. but, he at least figured that you wouldn’t be scared to tell your mom.

alas, he was wrong.

toji took a deep breath, “don’t cuss at me when i haven’t cussed at you. i’m trying to help and you’re throwing a tantrum. the situation isn’t fair to either of us yn, and we both know it.”

you gave him one more good look before you took a step back into the bathroom and slammed the door in his face.

~~~

the fight was in 20 minutes and toji’s heart was pounding. his adrenaline was rushing throughout his body and all he could think of was your crying face and what that ugly fucker said to you earlier.

in every sense of the word, he was pissed.

he had left you back in the hands of your mentor, granting the two of you front row seats. although you could feel everyone’s eyes staring at the back of your head, you held your composure.

you could feel your mentor squeeze your hand, “i know it’s not my place, but don’t beat yourself up over what happened earlier yn, especially if you’re happy. if the two of you are together, just leave it at that. you don’t have to explain yourself to anyone, i promise.”

you reached over and gave her a hug, letting yourself finally feel the embrace of someone who cared about you. however, the sweet moment was interrupted when the announcer came out to introduce toji’s opponent.

you felt like a fish being gutted while watching him walk down the isle. his entourage behind him, making him look even weaker than he was. and the most disgusting part was him catching your eye after bouncing around the stage and winking.

toji swore he was gonna kill him. he was gonna rip his gloves off with his teeth and jam his thumbs into his eyes. taunting him was different, it was part of the sport. but making a show out of his lady was something that toji was gonna lay his ass out for.

everyone watched as the announcer made his way back into the middle of the ring and grabbed the microphone to speak once more, “ladies and gentleman! please give it up for your reigning heavyweight champion, toji fushiguro!”

the screams from the crowd jolted your body awake, firing your adrenaline on all cylinders. it was at this moment when you realized you were dating toji-fucking -fushiguro and you weren’t gonna let his scum of an opponent make you feel any less because of it.

when toji got to the ring, he removed his robe and only glared at his opponent. it was scarier than seeing him move around with the crowd because to the three of you, this was way more than a fight.

you don’t know what caused you to do it, but you walked up to the ring and called out his name. he started to squat down to speak to you, but instead watched you climbed inside to stand before him. he could see that you had your hands bawled up beside your hips and he laughed a little.

you looked at his opponent and back at him. finally, you slung your arm around him and pulled him in to where only he could hear you, “put his ass to sleep for me toji” and with a kiss to his cheek, you made your descent out of the ring.

suddenly toji was ablaze. in an instant, he transformed from his regular, stern self to the fighter, entertainer, and winner. everyone that could see him on the Jumbotron and television could see that whatever you had said to him was gonna determine the fate of this match.

~~~

2 rounds, 4 minutes and 29 seconds was all it took for toji to lay his opponent out flat. he didn’t need confirmation from the referee before he spit out his mouth guard and roared at the crowd. he could see you standing there in awe at him and it was the cutest thing he had ever seen.

eventually, toji was allowed to say his peace before existing the ring and of course, the world waited at the edge of their seats for the update on what was seen earlier.

toji couldn’t even think straight when it came time for him to talk. the only thing on his mind was you. ynynynyn was all that kept replaying in his mind before he said this, “i want the entire fucking world to know that she’s my girl. she’s been mine since i first seen her and i wouldn’t want it any other way. baby, i love you.”

by this point, you were backstage with his team watching his commentary on a flatscreen. all you wanted to do was wrap your arms around him, but that would have to wait a little longer.

finally, toji walked into the back room, fully changed out of his fighting clothes, and all but stalked his way to you. he embraced you so tightly, you felt like he could snap you in half.

you pulled away from him and and pecked his cheek, “you love me toji?”.

he shook his head, “since the day i met you.”

and while tears were beginning to well in your eyes, toji was throwing you over his shoulder and heading towards his car. with the shouts of his team behind him, the only thing on his mind was getting you home and fucking you till you cried.

he sped home in dangerous silence, alternating from his hand gently squeezing your thigh to slightly rubbing this thumb up as high as you’d allow.

he didn’t even bother to park correctly before he flung his door open. toji sprinted to your side and lifted you out. you could hear his heavy breathing as he traveled through his penthouse lobby and into the elevator.

he body caged you in and his breath fanned your nose. “don’t mean to be rough. hope i’m not scarin ya” he chuckled out.

“no baby. you’re not scaring me at all.” he was, in fact, doing the opposite. you were so turned on, you hoped it wasn’t leaking through your jeans.

toji gripped your face and kissed you roughly. it was much different from the small kisses you shared, but neither of you cared. before separating for air, he pulled your bottom lip between his teeth and pulled, groaning at the sight of how innocent you looked.

after the long awaited ding of the elevator, toji grabbed your arm and pulled you towards his door.

he slung you inside and tossed you over his shoulder, once again, as he led you to the bedroom.

he gently set you down on the bed and removed his black hoodie, exposing his tattooed body. you could still see how hard he was breathing and touched his stomach to try and call him down. yet even from that innocent little touch, he was all the more hard at the sight of you.

he wordlessly took off your shoes and stood up to kiss you again. you could feel him unbuckle your jeans and your hands made their way to his pants. he moved one hand to yours and removed them from his sweats, causing you to pull back from his mouth.

the confusion lacing your face was so cute, but he needed to take his time with you. “this ain’t about me sweet girl, g’nna take my time with you and this pretty body. ‘kay?”

without giving you a chance to respond, he finally pulled your pants off in one go, and kneeled between your legs. he brought his knuckle up to your pretty pink panties and nudged at the wet spot. he licked his lips slightly and kissed your thigh.

“gonna let me eat this pretty pussy baby, yeah? wanna feel my tongue don’cha?” he was softly moving your panties to the side and groaned at the sight. your fat pussy was so pretty. cunt so puffy and wet for him, he had to get a taste.

“please toji, just touch me” you whined and toji didn’t need to hear anything else. he pulled your panties fully off and lapped at your clit like a kitten while his fingers made way to your entrance. he pushed his fingers in and you all but screamed, one hand gripping his hair while the other interlocked with his.

toji could die in your cunt and not complain. this was his own personal heaven and he swore to kill the next person who even tried to look at you funny. “yer pussy’s so sweet baby. could eat it all night if ya let me.”

he latched back onto your clit and sucked hard. his middle finger was hitting that spot you could never reach yourself and you felt euphoric. your thick thighs twitched on either side of his head, but toji didn’t care. his only focus was getting you to cum on his tongue.

he could hear your whimpers get louder and your cunt clench against his finger. he knew you were close and didn’t wanna waste anymore time.

“cum for me sweet girl. wanna taste it mama please.”

and you came, hard. your eyes rolled into the back of your head and you were gripping the covers so tightly you swore you’d put holes into it. toji was desperately trying to keep your legs open so he could continue to ravage your cunt, but he eventually opted to rubbing your precious clit while looking at your face.

he loved the sight of you coming down from your high. you looked exactly how you did after you finished crying and toji could feel his dick get impossibly harder in his pants.

he swiped his thumb over your bottom lip causing your tongue to jut out and lick. you tilted your head up a bit and sucked his thumb into your mouth, being sure to release it with a pop.

“want you to fuck me toji. please fuck me. wanna feel it in me”, you all but whined out.

he looked at you starry eyed and placed his hand on your tummy. “you wanna feel me right here baby? want me deep in your little cunny, ain’t that right” he smiled and slapped your ass.

before you could respond, toji reached for your shirt and lifted it above your head. he watched you unclasp your bra and toss it across the room. it was the first time toji had seen your beautiful, chubby body and he couldn’t be more ecstatic. you were so beautiful and he was so happy he could publically call you his.

he slipped his sweats and boxers down in one go. he reached towards his nightstand and pulled out a condom. after ripping it open with his teeth, he rolled it on and positioned himself toward your entrance.

you backed away a bit and he gripped your leg, “don’t run from me. lemme have it”.

you shook your head slightly and looked up at him wide eyed, “s’not gonna fit”.

he laughed a little and leaned down toward your neck, “i’ll make it fit, pretty”. and began to push the tip in.

he was big like you expected, but he did a considerable amount of prep to make this pleasurable for you and him.

he could feel you claw at his back and his teeth grit together. he wanted to push all the way in and fuck you stupid, but he knew he needed to go slow. it was your first time with him and he wanted to make it as special as it could be.

after fully sheathing himself in your cunt, he let out a quick “fuck” before looking into your eyes.

those beautiful e/c eyes he loved looking into so much. so teary and full of pleasure, “want me to move?”

you let out a small yes and toji rocked his hips slightly. he gripped onto the headboard above your head and sped up a little, not wanting to overwhelm you.

eventually, those small, soft strokes weren’t doing enough for you, causing you to get restless. you pushed your hips towards him and whined, “fuck me harder toji!” and that was all it took for him to fuck you like a mad man.

his hand left the headboard and pushed your thighs wider. the weight of toji on your body mixed with his heavy thrusts almost knocked the wind out of you. you were moaning and whimpering and toji loved the sight.

at some point, toji grabbed your leg and angled your anklet clad foot towards his head. he kissed your ankle before smiling down at you, which caused your pussy to gush around his cock.

he could feel your cunt start to pulsate again, all the while toji was reaching his limit too. he wanted you to cum with him, even if he had to withhold his orgasm a bit longer.

he started thumbing your clit while his body pushed your lifted leg further back, allowing him to hit a new spot within your gummy walls. you could feel the slight curve in his dick and it was driving you insane.

you looked up at him and he began to speak. “want you to cum with me baby. can you do that f’r me?”

you shook your head yes embarrassingly fast and toji rubbed your pussy just a tad bit faster.

you moaned and grabbed toji’s shoulders, “‘m gonna cum toji. i’m gonna cum. oh my god ‘m cummin- oh!” toji felt your release on his abdomen and with a loud groan, he released shortly after you.

he let you grind on his cock while you rode out your shared orgasm. he felt like he had died and went to heaven because of your pussy, and slowly but surely, he came down to witness you still twitching and shaking.

he rubbed your face gently and spoke softly, “c’mon baby. come back to me” he repeated his words until you finally let out a deep breath and weakly smiled.

he pulled out of you with a hiss and tied off the condom before disposing of it. he lifted you out of the bed and brought you to the bathroom before running you a nice warm bath. he filled the tub with bubbles and set you in gently before going to clean up the mess you two had made.

once toji came back, he washed you, lotioned you up and dressed you in a big shirt of his and boxers.

as he finally laid you down to sleep, you felt him kiss your forehead. while you knew things would never go back to the way they were, it didn’t matter because now the world knew that toji was, and always will be, yours.

[mvltixcc]

Girls Like Girls - Robin Buckley X Cheerleader!Reader

Summary: Robin has a crush on the new girl in town. Y/N is also a new member of the cheer squad, which means Robin sees her all the time at games and other school events. Unfortunately, Robin is put in a tough situation. She's scared to talk to her because the cheerleaders have a reputation of being mean girls and she fears that Y/N may not feel the same. Little does Robin know that Y/N does not appear as she seems. Y/N becomes best friends with Eddie, which seems unlikely at the surface due to different social circles. This leads to rumors of course and word spreads like wildfire here at Hawkins, which then makes Robin's feelings even more confusing. After hanging out with Steve and the gang, Robin starts to see a different side to Y/N. Will they end up together or will they just remain friends?

Word Count: 3.7k

Pinterest board for inspiration

Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5

Chapter 6

You heard the ding of the bell as someone had entered the book store. “Hey there, welcome to- oh hey you!” You say looking up to the customer but seeing Robin instead. Your mood had instantly lifted. It had been months since the Christmas party at Steve’s and things were going great between you and Robin. You guys were hanging out a lot more. You had things that turned into weekly traditions. Like going to the movies every Friday night, going to the diner every Sunday morning and getting breakfast, and now that it was getting warm out you went on walks after school everyday. You loved the time you got to spend with her. It just felt right between the two of you. You had missed her and were grateful to have her back. “What are you doing here?” You asked with a smile.

“Oh you know, just bringing you some lunch. I figured it might be a slow day so I thought I’d keep you some company.” Robin said, setting down some food to share between the two of you. 

“Well aren’t you just a peach!” You say walking from behind the counter and giving her a hug.

“You look so pretty today.” Robin complimented as she took your hand. You did a twirl while still holding her hand. You were wearing a white top with a black skirt, something simple but still so beautiful in Robin's.

You blushed at her compliment. “Thank you sweet angel!” You thanked her. 

The pair of you sat and ate the food that Robin had brought. You chatted about spring break plans as it was coming up in a few weeks. Steve of course wanted to throw a party since his parents would be gone and Eddie wanted to go on a road trip with everyone. But you and Robin just wanted to stay back and have a nice relaxing time. Sadly it was not an option as it was split in the middle and it was up to the two of you to decide what you all did. 

“I mean if we pick a party at Steve’s, maybe it won't be a big thing? You know, just make it like a few of us or something?” Robin suggested.

“Yeah that could work honestly. You don’t wanna be stuck in a van with Eddie, it can get super gross and smelly. He is a man after all! Plus all of us confined in such a tight space like that, we’d probably kill each other eventually.” You chuckled. The thought of that could make Robin spiral, she had avoided Eddie as much as she could. If she were around him, she’d just get angry and sad all over again just like that night at your house all those months ago. 

“So it’s settled then, we’ll have a small party at Steve’s. I’d better call him and let him know, can I use the phone here?” She asked, you handed her the phone and cleaned up the trash from lunch.

“Hey Harrington, we made a decision. We’ll have the party. BUT, only if it’s just our group. No big Harrington bash. I’m serious!” She said. Robin continued the phone call with Steve as you finished cleaning up. “Yeah yeah yeah, whatever dingus. Look I gotta go okay? Bye.” Robin said, hanging up the phone shortly after. People were starting to stagger in and look around, which meant Robin had to leave. “Alright well, I guess I should head out and let you go.”

“I’ll see you at school tomorrow angel!” You said waving goodbye to her and quickly started helping people find what they needed. You liked working at the bookstore, it was usually pretty calming most days. Plus when it was super dead, you were able to read some of the books yourself. You were currently hooked on reading The Lord of The Rings series and you had just finished The Hobbit not too long ago. You wished you could buy the full set, but it had cost way too much. 

“Did you find everything all right Mrs. Gibson?” You said as you were checking out one of your usual customers. Mrs. Gibson would come in every week to find new books for her young granddaughter. It was sweet and you enjoyed the conversations you would have with her. 

“Oh yes I did! How have you been my dear?” She asked.

“I’ve been great! Just been working, going to school, and hanging out with my friends. I hope you’re doing well!” You replied. 

“I’ve been doing good! Any fun plans for spring break?” She asked, pulling her wallet out of her purse. 

“Your total is $13.45 by the way! Me and a few friends are gonna have a small get together, but that's all that I have planned. How about you, do you have anything fun planned?” You say to her.

“Well Mr. Gibson and I are planning on heading to Florida with the family, we have a little beach house there and we go a few times a year!” Mrs. Gibson replied, handing you the cash. 

“That sounds lovely, I hope you and your family have a wonderful time!” You handed her the receipt and exchanged goodbyes.

The rest of your shift went by rather quickly, you soon headed home to get dinner and ready for bed as you had school in the morning.

 You stood at your locker getting your books for the next few classes, when suddenly you see a pair of feet before you. You close your locker to see Robin standing there. “Are we still on for tonight?” She asked with a grin.

“Yes we are, but I do have to help Eddie study for exams after school. I will absolutely be there to pick you up at our usual time once I'm done!” You say as you walk with her to your next class, which you just so happened to have with her. 

“Seems a little early to be studying for exams doesn’t it?” Robin questioned.

“Well you know Eddie, he’s gotta start early if he wants to graduate with us.” You said. This was important to you which meant it was important to Eddie. He didn’t want to disappoint anyone, especially you. He cared too much about you to let you down. So if that meant he had to buckle up and study, then that's what he would do. 

“I guess that makes sense. As long as he doesn’t take you away from me for our movie night then we’ll be good, otherwise I’d probably have to beat him up.” You chuckled at her joke but Robin was only semi joking. You both took your seats as class was starting.

“Alright everyone, pop quiz time!” The teacher said which made the class groan.

Robin sat on her front steps waiting for you to pick her up for the movies. She continuously kept checking her watch, she feared that you were gonna be late or not show up at all. She knew how you got when you would hang out with Eddie. As Robin got caught up with her anxious thoughts, she heard a honk. She had checked her watch for the time. There you were right on time as you said you would. Robin let out a sigh of relief, she hated thinking the worst at times. Especially when the thing she was so anxious about ended up working out and being fine in the end.

“You ready to go?” You asked as Robin got in the car. She nodded and buckled her seatbelt. “Alright then, let's go!” You said driving off to the theater. 

You make it there and stand in line to get your tickets. As you were deciding which film to see, you heard a voice behind you. “Oh well well well, look who it is, girls?” You and Robin turn around to see who it is, but deep down you know already.

“Hello Chrissy.” You say with an unpleasant sigh. “Can we help you with something?” Robin asked.

“Yeah you can actually, why don’t you both go crawl back into whatever hole-” Robin held up her hand to Chrissy.

“Would you just give it up already and go bother someone who actually gives a shit?” Robin stated. She was a little shocked with herself. She never stood up to people like Chrissy. 

“Ugh whatever! Let’s get out of here girls” Chrissy scoffed as her and her friends walked away. 

“Next please!” The ticket holder called. It was your turn in line. You bought your tickets and made your way inside to get snacks and catch your seats. You had decided on seeing Gremlins as Robin hadn’t seen it yet and she knew how much you enjoyed horror films. Plus it had a little bit of a Christmas feel to it, which you knew how much Robin loved Christmas.

The movie was going well and you were both enjoying it. Robin was so tranced at the screen that she almost jumped at you holding her hand, but that feeling had soon faded as you started to rub your thumb against her skin. It was a simple act of affection but it meant so much to Robin. It brought her so much comfort and reminded her of the first night that you ever held her hand. She got butterflies just thinking about it. 

“So did you enjoy the movie?” You asked as you drove Robin home. 

“I actually did!” Robin exclaimed, she was rambling on about the cinematography and anything else that she could having to do with the film. “I’m rambling again aren’t I? Oh god I’m sorry, when I get excited-” 

“It’s okay, I find it cute the way you ramble. Especially when you get excited about things.” You reassured her. You turned to her and moved a piece of hair out of her face gently. “There, now I can see all of your pretty face!” You say with a giggle. Robin just sat there with her mouth open, all she could do was sit there and turn a light shade of pink. 

“I um-” She coughed trying to clear her throat. “Thank you.” Robin said, looking straight ahead. For the rest of the ride home you talked about what you both would do before the party at Steve’s. You had decided on going to the park and reading a book with her and going to the music store to check out the new records that were in stock. You were both excited to spend more time together, just the two of you doing things that you both enjoyed.

“Roads go ever ever on, Over rock and under tree, By caves where never sun has shone, By streams that never find the sea; Over snow by winter sown, And through the merry flowers of June, Over grass and over stone, And under mountains in the moon. Roads go ever ever on, Under cloud and under star. Yet feet that wandering have gone Turn at last to home afar. Eyes that fire and sword have seen, And horror in the halls of stone Look at last on meadows green, And trees and hills they long have known”

You read aloud as you lay your head in Robin’s lap. You were both lying in the field at the park as the sun was setting. You were finishing up reading The Hobbit to Robin as she hadn’t read it before. Eddie let you borrow his copy. As you were reading, Robin played with your hair with one hand, while you held the other. It was a perfect moment and neither of you wanted it to end. Once you had finished the book, the pair of you just stayed where you were. Enjoying the company of one another until the sun had fully set. Robin helped you clean up once it was time to go. 

“So do you know who’s gonna be at this party tomorrow?” Robin asked. She wanted to make sure Eddie wouldn’t be there to ruin her moment. She was finally going to take Steve’s advice and ask you out. She felt that things were going well with the two of you and you had been spending more time with her than with Eddie. 

“I’m honestly not sure, I know it’ll be us, Nancy and Mike, maybe Dustin, Lucas, and Max as well.” Robin let out a sigh of relief. Surely you would know if Eddie were coming and if you did then you would have told her. The both of you continued to talk more about the party as you drove Robin home. 

“So I’ll pick you up tomorrow at 8 and then we can stay at my place after the party!” You say as Robin stands outside the driver side door. 

“That sounds perfect to me, I’ll see you then! Drive safe!” Robin replied as she made her way to the front door. 

“Don’t I always?” You chuckled and drove off. 

Tomorrow was going to be a big day and Robin just hoped it would go the way she had planned it all week.

It was finally the big night of the party and Robin was a nervous wreck. She tried to hide that from you but you knew her too well. “You okay there?” You asked. 

“What oh uh yeah, yeah I’m okay.” Robin replied, fidgeting with her fingers. You grab her hand and rub your thumb like you normally do. You could tell something was eating at her, but you never pushed her to tell you anything she didn’t want to talk about. 

“Well whatever has you all anxious, just know I’m here for you, however you need me, okay angel?” You say still rubbing your thumb on her smooth skin. She nods her head and thanks you. 

You both arrive at the party and already there’s a good amount of people there. You make your rounds to say hello to everyone and suddenly the doorbell rings. 

“What’s up, party people?!” Eddie shouts over the music as he and a few of the other members of the Hellfire gang walk in, setting the pizza and soda down on the table. 

“Oh my god Eddie!” You yell in excitement as you jump into his arms. You hadn’t seen him for a while and you missed him like crazy. “I missed you so so much Eds!”

He spun around with you in his arms. “I missed you too peach!” Eddie exclaimed. 

Robin went into the kitchen to hide away, she was angry. She felt like her entire plan was ruined. Steve came into the kitchen to see what was wrong.

“Hey, what the hell is going on?” Steve asked as Robin was hunched over the counter.

“Why is he here?!” She asked, anger seeping in her voice.

“Well when I was inviting Dustin, Eddie may have overheard so I had to invite him too. I felt bad, I didn't want to leave him out.” Steve responded and gave his friend a sympathetic look. “Robin, I’m really sorry. I should have told you that he was coming. Y/N didn’t know, don’t be mad at her.” 

She let out a harsh sigh. “Whatever.” She said brushing past Steve and going back to the party. 

Everyone was watching a movie in the living room so Robin sat in the recliner and watched along to try and get her out of this sour mood. She was determined to get her moment with you, no matter what it takes. She wanted it to be perfect.

There you were sitting on the sofa with Eddie, your legs on his lap as he held onto you. She couldn’t take it anymore. She stormed out of the room and went outside and sat by the pool. You soon followed after her to see if she was okay. 

“Robin? Hey, what's the matter?” You say sitting next to her.

“Why does HE have to be here?” Robin scoffed.

“Who?” You asked.

“Eddie, that's who!” She yells.

You had never seen Robin this upset before. You tried to comfort her the best you could. ‘Had something happened between them? Why was she so mad at Eddie?’ So many thoughts were racing through your mind you didn’t know what to think.

“Did something happen with you guys?” You questioned Robin.

“Yes- well no. Not exactly.” She began to quiet down and look away from you, trying to hide the tears that were forming. You could hear her voice breaking as she spoke.

“Hey, angel. Talk to me, what’s going on?” You said trying to get her to look at you.

“It’s just- it’s not fair.” Robin began to say.

“What’s not fair?” You asked.

“That HE gets to be with you. That he gets to make you laugh the way that you do, that he gets to do the things that I should be able to do with you. It’s just so goddamn unfair!” She sobbed. 

“Robin-” She interrupted you before you could continue.

“That’s why I didn’t talk to you for that period of time, I couldn’t stand seeing you together the way that you are. I’ve been through this with Vickie. It broke me so badly and I never wanted to face that kind of rejection or humiliation ever again and now it’s happening all a second time. I had this big plan to ask you to be my girlfriend and to go to the prom with me. I love spending time with you. I love the way you twirl around in your skirts. I love the way you scrunch your nose like a bunny. I love the way that when the wind hits just right, I can smell your perfume and how sweet it is. I love the way that your eyes sparkle in the moonlight. I love the way that I feel when I’m with you. I love you. I love you so damn much. But I can’t bear to see you with Eddie anymore. I just-” You pulled her face towards yours and kissed her. She didn’t know what to think, she hadn’t done this with anyone before. It didn’t take long for her instincts to kick in. Robin began to kiss you back. Your lips began to move in sync with hers, like it was meant to be. You tasted sweet, like strawberries. She knew how she felt about you and she knew this just felt right. 

“Robin, Eddie and I are just friends. I promise you that. He’s my best friend and that’s it. Eddie is my Steve.” You began to say. “He was the first friend I ever really made. I never had any growing up, I got picked on a lot. He understood me in ways that no one ever had. We both lost our mom’s and our dad's aren't the greatest.” 

‘That would explain why she lived with her grandparents.’ Robin thought to herself. You began to wipe away her tears gently. 

“Robin, I’ve had feelings for you for so long. I tried to give as many signals as I could, I just thought that you maybe didn’t feel the same. You are so special to me and I care about you so much. You mean everything to me. I love the way you ramble when you get nervous and even about the things that you're passionate about. I love that little hair that hangs in your face. I love that I can be myself when I'm with you. I love how funny you are, I just love you Robin.” You admitted to her. 

“Really?” She asked.

“Yes really!” You giggled.

“So does this mean-” Robin started.

“Yes, I will be your girlfriend!” You said and you kissed her cheek. 

“Cool, that’s- that’s super cool.” She said getting flustered. You giggled at her and stood up from where you sat. 

“Come on, let’s go back inside and have a good time.” You suggested, holding out your hand to help her up. She took your hand and got up, following you back inside. The group ended up having fun the rest of the night, watching movies, eating junk food, and playing games. It was around midnight when everyone started to head home.

“Hey Munson, wait up!” Robin called to Eddie as he headed toward his van.

“What’s up?” He asked, turning around to face her.

“Look, I’m really sorry for the way I’ve treated you as of late. You’re a good guy and I was just-” She let out a sigh. “Just jealous of you and I thought that you were with Y/N, so I acted horribly to you and that wasn’t fair. I’m really sorry Eddie.”

He chuckled. “It’s alright Robin, really. You didn’t know and I don’t blame you for that. I appreciate the apology. Just hope that we can be friends now.”

“Definitely!” Robin proclaimed. 

The two said their goodbyes and Robin made her way back to your car. You drove off back to your house, holding onto her hand. She began to think to herself about how Steve was right all along once again. “Damn you Harrington.” She muttered to herself.

“What was that?” You asked, looking over to her.

“Oh nothing, it was nothing.” Robin replied with a huge smile on her face.

Next chapter

[kastlequill]

ii/v. unearth without a name: the world that hardens as the harsher winter holds

pairing: keegan p russ x f!reader word count: 1.8k synopsis: the second time you hallucinate keegan tags: whumptober, psychological warfare, blood and injury, brainwashing, hallucinations, hurt no comfort, established relationship, ghost!reader, 4+1, no y/n warnings: canon-typical violence, torture, non-consensual drug use ao3: read here ← prev | next →

II.

A semblance of a regimented schedule formed shortly after those first couple of days.

Two goons would begin the cycle with a visit, using you as a human punching bag until your ribs burned and your frayed nerves went numb. Then came the waterboarding and the breaking of bone, be it a rib or a finger. Last, but certainly not least, Rorke would work on molding your mind into something foreign, though whatever drug he’d administered on Day 1 hadn’t made a reappearance yet.

Yet.

You didn’t have it in you to treasure that simple blessing because your captors were constantly swapping one torture method for another, determined to keep you guessing. Recently, they’d started to get more creative; extreme sensory deprivation was still a favorite of theirs, but they had now added physically-intensive beatings into the mix.

Time elapsed strangely in this hellscape. With no sun to denote mornings and no moon to introduce nights, you had to measure its passage in terms of the damage inflicted upon you. Which was to say, what marked the beginning of a day wasn’t the sunrise; instead, it was the piece of stale bread that you received only after your captors made you beg like a dog.

And to determine when you’d reached the end of another day having survived, it was Rorke, not the setting sun nor the rising stars, who served as a useful metric. Night began in the moments following his departure from the chamber once he’d satiated his raging appetite for sadism, leaving you to succumb to your injuries and fall unconscious.

Eventually, those unfulfilling few hours of sleep would be interrupted by the force of the tossed bread hitting your head. Like clockwork, this cursed routine repeated again and again, though you couldn’t discern whether or not these recurring events were consistently scheduled at a specific hour. It would come as no surprise if they’d been staggered to hinder you from adapting to your new normal.

Such was the way of the Federation.

Regardless of the truth, according to your unconventional form of tracking time, nightfall was nearly upon you. Rorke had been here for what seemed like an eternity, putting forth a valiant effort in beating you into submission and breaking your will.

You just had to bear this pain a little while longer. Then, you could allow your body to recuperate through a bout of fitful slumber.

“Still got some fight left in you, eh?” Rorke wiped the sweat off his brow with the back of his hand. Hands that had spent the last however many weeks tenderizing your flesh and splintering your bones. “First, let me express my gratitude. I appreciate you makin’ this fun for an old man.”

You wanted nothing more than to kill him slow, to watch the crazed gleam fade from his deadened eyes, but you’d decided on Day 2 not to engage him beyond what was strictly necessary. If you managed to keep the talking to a minimum, then perhaps Rorke wouldn’t linger for too long. A flawed logic built on desperation.

It worked on occasion, boredom striking him sooner rather than later, ending the interrogation session without much fanfare. Though that wasn’t always the case.

The man was a loose cannon. He lashed out on a whim then switched up before you could process what he’d originally done. Even his co-conspirators avoided being caught in his blast radius, but no such hope existed for you, the prisoner who still breathed only because he willed it.

“Now, with that out of the way—”

An uppercut collided against your chin, sending you reeling, doubling over, stretching the muscles in your arms as the ropes that dangled you from the ceiling strained under the pressure. The impact rattled your teeth, and the metallic taste of blood doused your bitten tongue.

The bastard possessed an absurd amount of power for his age. And you, half-starved and broken in one too many places, were the lucky recipient of said power.

“What are the Ghosts plannin’ to do near the Gulf?” He forced your gaze to meet his, yanking your head backward by the roots of your hair. Resolute in your fatal desire to safeguard your comrades to the best of your abilities, your mouth stayed stubbornly shut.

If you couldn’t be of use out there by their side on a battlefield, the least you could do was stop the enemy from obtaining crucial intel. You couldn’t give the Feds the upper hand, not when that ran the risk of landing Merrick, Hesh, Logan, Keegan in some shallow grave.

Rorke sneered. “So that’s the kinda game you want to play? Alright, little martyr, keep your secrets. But listen up, and listen good: when I find all ‘em out, because I will find out, you’ll wish you hadn’t been so blindly loyal to those damn mutts. Better hope you’ve still got most of your fingers when that day comes ‘round.”

The grip on your hair relinquished, and your head dipped low, too fatigued to support its weight on your own. You were content to stay like that, crumpled and weak, but the sound of rustling fabric bid you to remain present and raise your lidded gaze.

Your stomach dropped at the sight of Rorke pulling out a syringe from a pocket on his tactical vest.

“Remember this?” Its needle glistened menacingly in the dull lamplight. The man must have seen the brief panic that flitted across your face because he gave a wry chuckle. “Hell, of course y’do. No need for a reintroduction, then.”

Without further delay, Rorke jabbed the syringe into a bulging vein in your neck, dehydration making it appear more prominent than usual. Your fear spiked as he injected its contents into your already-fragile system. Compared to the previous dose, you began to experience the drug’s effects much faster, blood suddenly afire, choking on hurried gasps, jaw locked. It held your body hostage while it hijacked your biological milieu and scrambled your brain.

The bombardment on your five senses was so overwhelming that you had to close your eyes, the surrounding visual stimuli too abrasive to withstand in your compromised state. When you did finally blink them open again, the scene that greeted you was of a different man, a man whose presence you greatly welcomed.

Decked out in full gear and face lathered in greasepaint wherever his mask failed to conceal skin, Keegan stood several paces behind Rorke. Arms crossed, feet shoulder-width apart, cold stare devoid of any affection but flowing with disappointment. Before, he’d spoken everything you had never wanted to hear; this time, however, the apparition uttered not a single syllable.

A flash of white heat diffused throughout your body from head to toe as rage superseded pain.

Did he really think you were a failure, a disgrace? Was that why he opted to hold his tongue, finding you unworthy, an utter waste of his breath?

You recalled the days when he had barely spared you a glance beyond ensuring you weren’t falling behind. When he had gradually begun to reference you as an irreplaceable part of their established collective; when eliciting a low chuckle from him had been considered a victory and earning his praise had become something of an addiction. When he had listened to your whispered confession then offered up a weakness of his own; when he had agreed to learn bit by bit how to give you his heart and how to take yours in turn.

Looking back, the two of you had come so far. And yet, the fruits of your labor would go uneaten. You weren’t foolish enough to assume survival was still a possibility after a few more rounds of torture; if your mind didn’t break first, then your body would surely shut down.

Two good months. That was all you had gotten with him as a lover.

Just two months.

Another punch to your liver yanked you from your spiraling thoughts. “You ready to talk? No? Suit yourself.”

The onslaught resumed, ripping old wounds anew, further bruising already-sore skin, weakening calcium-deficient bones. Truth be told, you’d been ready to talk for the past eight cycles of this shit, but loyalty prevented you from squealing like a pig. Regretfully, this very same loyalty was beginning to feel misplaced.

Were they even searching for you? Was he? Had your comrades so easily written you off as KIA, unable to justify expending valuable, scarce resources on a mere stray?

Sure, Keegan’s last visit had been cruel, biting, but at least he had acknowledged your existence, your situation. The exchange, though agonizing, had reinvigorated you with purpose and determination to make it out of this hellhole alive. Now, if this fabricated Keegan would only address you, then the cracks in your composure and willpower could be rectified, bestowing upon you the strength to persevere, to suffer in silence until either your rescue or your death.

If he would only speak to you as a human being separate from this current timeline of misery and monsters among men, then maybe you had a real chance here. Maybe, you would again bask in the warmth of a glorious sunrise.

Say something.

He didn’t, of course. It shouldn’t have surprised you; he had never been the type to fill the quiet with nonsensical chatter. But you needed this, as starved of him as you were of food and water. You’d wait three seconds for him to correct himself, or else you would give him a piece of your mind, a proper tongue-lashing, scratchy throat and raw vocal cords be damned.

A well-aimed kick in the calf triggered a mental countdown.

Three. . .

Continuous heavy blows struck your temple, the resulting craters spouting a stream of blood, its damage producing a shrill ringing in your ears.

Two . . .

Forgetting the sound of his voice, struggling to replicate the unhurried yet impassioned cadence with which he spoke, gone was his deep tenor—

One.

“God, make it stop,” were the words that left your cracked, chapped lips. But there was no God to answer your pleas; not down here. Still, you begged. “Please, just make it fucking stop.”

Keegan said nothing, content to continue his silent appraisal of the scene before him. Scrutinizing your weaknesses, judging how much more damage you could endure before your total destruction. A sentinel, a voyeur of your rawest pain.

Rorke, looming above like impending doom, a deadly omen, simply laughed and laughed.

And in that moment, you couldn’t decide which of the two men you hated more.

tbc.

[cute-bag-of-bones]

Can't Trust A Supe

Part 10: Blind

Masterlist

Warnings: This one is very dark. Lots of blood and killing. Homelander pretty much loses it for a bit.🥴

     

   "W-what?"

         "You heard me. How the fuck do you know Billy Butcher?" I stared at him blankly. I have never frozen up so hard in my life. It took me by surprise, what do I even say to that?

          "Who?" It wasn't the best I could do but it's all I had. His lips curl inwards making him bare his teeth at me. 

         "FUCKING BILLY BUTCHER!" He screamed so loud everything shook around us. The window bowed in and out threatening to shatter. I must have looked like a deer in headlights. My ears rang as he just stared. He was seething, his face was starting to turn red. 

         "I don't know a Billy Butcher." I wanted to crawl away but the wire around the cast would make that impossible. He still held his hand on my knee. I knew one wrong move and I'd have a much more permanent injury. 

        "Sure you do. Your uncle Billy." He seemed like he was trying to get a hold of himself. He was settling down ever so slightly. How did he get Billy's name? Did he have them, did he kill them?

        "That wasn't his la-" my sentence was cut off by Homelander's hand closing around my throat. He pushed me down to the bed and leaned over me. His eyes glowing a bright red. 

      "All you fucking do is lie to me! How long were you working with them?" He was pushing down on my throat so hard I thought he'd crush my windpipe. I couldn't breathe at all let alone speak. He seemed to realize this and took some weight off. I gasped and begged as I tried to catch my breath. This was it he'd kill me. I shook my head no as I tried to speak. It felt like I had glass in my throat. 

        "Please don't kill me." I begged tears falling down my face. He smirked, his eyes looked deranged, red and rage filled.

       "You are going to be begging for me to let you die. NOW TELL ME!" I screamed out when he began to yell. 

         "I wanted you dead! Billy said he'd help me make that happen." Homelander looked down at me. I could have sworn I saw a tear fall down from his eye as I saw a red flash come towards me. He was going to melt my face.

          The strangest thing happened. I saw into his body without even trying, I could see the small red light behind his eyes and for some unexplained reason I could turn them off. Like a light his lasers just switched off. It was something in the optical nerve; it was as simple as tugging on it. 

        Homelander screamed and grabbed his face. He rolled onto the floor on his back and arched up in pain as he howled. 

        "WHAT DID YOU DO! I CAN'T SEE!" He cried out. I desperately tugged at the wire. Finally I was able to strip the bolt from the wall. I got up as soon as I was freed and used the wall to hobble my way to the living room. I could hear his screams as he staggered to his feet and stumbled down the hall. His eyes still closed. His hand crushed the doorframe he was using to hold himself up with. 

         I couldn't run, I couldn't even walk so I got on my hands and knees to crawl away from him. I took shelter under the table as he made his way into the living room shortly after me. 

         "Simone, help me!" He cried. He bumped into the coffee table and the whole thing collapsed under him. "Fuck! Please!.... Daddys not mad anymore, just help me." He sounded so sweet at the end of the sentence it gave me chills. I had no idea what I just did. I just wanted his eyes to stop glowing. He turned his head to look in my direction. Slowly his eyes started to glow again. He blinked a few times and made eye contact with me. He must be able to see again. His eyes flickered out and returned to normal. 

         He looked so eerily calm as he walked over to the table I was under. He picked it up and looked down at me. 

       "They grow up so fast." He spoke so softly. Why was he not ripping me apart? Why is he just staring at me? 

       "I don't know what happened. I just got scared, it won't happen again Homelander please…" I whimper out through tears, as I hug my knees to my chest. 

       He sets the table down next to us and crouches down. With him so close I could see he's been crying. 

        "Do you know what it's like having your heart broken twice and by the same face?" His face was so close to mine I could smell his coffee breath.

        "Homelander please don't hurt me. Please I can't take any more pain." 

       "I'm not going to. Clearly that doesn't work anymore. I have a better idea." He whispers as he slowly grabs my throat again. I yelp as he pulls me to lean against his chest. 

        "Homela- plea-" I croaked out. 

        "Shh I'm not killing you. Just close your eyes for me." He says so sweetly as he wraps his other arm around me. I was losing air and fast. There was no wiggling out or begging. My vision faded slowly until it was all dark.

         I woke up or at least I thought I did. I had something over my eyes. A blindfold maybe. I was laying in something wet. I moved a little and the pain came rushing in. My skull felt like it was about to explode. I was fuzzy on what happened. I squirmed around for a second as I tried to sit up.

        "Homelander are you there?" I ask as I feel for the blindfold. My fingers work to undo the knot. 

         "Not yet." I heard him say. He sounded like he was across the room from me. That's when the smell hit me. It was coppery, meaty almost. It was a horrible stench. 

        Homelander walked behind me and gently took the blindfold off. Immediately my field of vision was filled with red. It was all over, it was blood. On the floor were body parts scattered everywhere. I screamed and tried to stand up. My plastic wrapped cast stopped me. I grabbed at Homelander's legs who was standing with his hands folded behind his back. 

          "What's wrong? You did this." He cooed as he crouched down to my level. I was sitting in a pool of blood. I grabbed at his shoulders to try and lift myself off the blood soaked ground. I was caked in it. 

          "What did you do!" I cried out as I pulled at him. Whenever I'd make progress at lifting myself he'd just push down on my lap and make me slip again. 

          "Me? No no, this was you, sweetie pie." He said as he kissed my forehead. He pulled away and had blood on his lips. I shook my head no, progressively getting more and more panicked. 

          "Why!" I screamed at him. He put his hand over my mouth and shushed me. 

           "Don't make me kill more. This neighborhood is so big. I'd hate to pay the nursing home a visit." That's when it dawned on me I recognized this room, it was the women's shelter I had stayed at when he first took me. 

           I began to gag against his hand as the situation really sets in. He moved his hand quickly not wanting to get puke on himself. I choke it back down as I sob. 

       "They didn't do anything to you! There are kids staying here!" I screamed. He shushed me again and petted my hair. 

          "No angel face, there were kids here. Not anymore." He stood up and walked over to one of the bunkbeds. He leaned down and pulled the covers down. My old bunkmate Liz was under there. She was cowering and shaking. I don't think he hurt her, not physically at least. 

        "Simone?" She whimpered out.

        "Don't worry I didn't tell her this was all your fault. Oops oh well cats out of the bag. Hey, let's play a game. You tell me the truth and I don't break all her bones. Sounds like fun right?" 

        "Why are you doing this?" She asks looking up at him from her bed. 

        "Don't look at me. She's the backstabber, she's the one who can't tell the truth to save her life so let's see if she'll do it to save yours." He says as he grabs her from her bed. 

         "Please please God don't do this let her go! Kill me! Just kill me!" I scream at him as I begin to crawl towards them. 

       "What did I say about yelling?" He covers her mouth and bends backwards her finger till it snaps. She screams into his hand. 

         "Alright, first question my little angel face, are you and Starlight plotting against me?" The question was so bizarre, why was he hung up on Starlight? 

       "No God! What? I have only talked to her like once! I don't know her!" 

       He looked between me and Liz. 

       "You didn't know she was dating that skinny kid Hughie?"

      "I have been with you! How the fuck would I have known that!" I screamed out and covered my mouth once I realized. He laughed a little and snapped another finger of hers. She just kept looking at me. Like she was begging me to stop him somehow. 

       "Don't get smart with me missy. She has so many more limbs. Was starlight working with them?"

       "No no I don't think so. I don't know." I try to speak as calmly as I can. He seemed to believe me. He should, it was the truth.

      "Where is Billy Butcher hiding?" I shook my head no slowly. There was no way I could give them all up. Billy might have been a jerk the last time I saw him but I still could tell he cared. He just was doing what he had to. 

       "I don't know, they moved around so much I wouldn't know the first place to look." Homelander tuts before snapping her whole arm clean in half. She screams into his hand again. She looked so tired so scared. 

       "Come on Simone, help your friend out. Just tell me." 

       "I don't know." I say softly I look away as he steps down on her foot. It sounded like a bag of chips crunching and popping open. She looked like she might pass out. Homelander noticed that as well and slapped her face to keep her eyes open. 

        I could stop her suffering. He was going to kill her anyway. I had to help her. It would be different from all the others. This was merciful. 

        "Liz I'm sorry." I look inside her brain and pop every blood vessel I could. She was dead before she knew what happened. She slumped in his arms and began to bleed from her nose. 

         Homelander was not dumb he knew right away what I did. He dropped her body. 

       "That's cheating Simone. We were playing a game. Killing isn't very nice." He says in a mocking tone. My lip trembled as he walked over to me. "You're gonna tell me where they are,  Simone. It might not be today but someday. How many people are you willing to kill to protect them?" He asked as he picked me up bridal style. It was a valid question and I was sure he was more than willing to help me figure it out. 

         He flew us home. He took his boots off at the window so he didn't track blood in. He took me right to the bathroom. 

         "Get undressed and get in the bath. You smell like shit." He said as he set me down in the tub. 

         "What?" He didn't seem to understand why I wouldn't want to do that with him in the room. "Could you step out?" 

          "No. You are dumb enough to try and run on that broken ankle. Here you are just going to have to make do with this." He said as he pulled the show curtain close. It was going to have to be good enough.

          I carefully get undressed and sit down in the tub. I throw my blood soaked clothes outside the curtain. I keep my leg propped up as I run a bath. I felt so tired, I couldn't even begin to process what all just happened. 

          Homelander left the room for a second to get some clean clothes for me. When he returns he tells me it's time to get out. He sets the clothes on the sink and turns his back as I sit on the edge of the tub to get dressed. In a way I was thankful he was letting me wash the blood off even if it was just to protect his hardwood floors. 

         "I'm going to change, go get in your bed, It's late." He said as he left me sitting in the bathroom. How was I supposed to get to my bed? I decided the safest way was to scoot on my butt to the other room. My leg was killing me, my whole body was killing me. From my throat to my head. All of it. I crawled into bed and pulled the covers over myself. 

        Homelander wasn't long behind me. He had on yet another stupid suit. Didn't he own any other clothes? He sat down on the edge of the bed. 

        "Why did you want to kill me?" He whispers. Was he talking about earlier when I told him how I knew Billy? How did he not know? 

      "You killed my fucking family." I say through gritted teeth. 

       "Yeah well I killed mine too that night." He said with a sniffle. Was he crying? I rolled over to face him. 

       "What did you just say to me?"

       "She was all I had. The only person who has ever loved me, and she chose him over me. You're the closest thing I have to her, Simone." He took a deep breath. "I know you aren't mine. I have known for a while. Your mom did a blood test not long after you were born. It was in the file." A tear fell down his cheek. He swiped it away quickly and turned his face so I couldn't see.

        "Why didn't you just kill me?" 

        "You looked so much like her I couldn't build up the courage to kill her a second time. I tried, the first night I had you in this room after I read the file I came in here and stood over you, but you looked so peaceful." He sounded like he was getting choked up. He took a second before speaking again. "You broke my heart when you tried to kill me. I'm not crazy, I know you have every right to but I'm not going to let that happen. Neither one of us is going to be killing the other. I still love you, blood or not. As far as I see it you are the perfect baby Diana and I should have had. I'm not letting you go. I'm going to give you the life I should have been able to give you from the start. Just give me a chance." 

        Did he expect me to forget everything he's done, everything he's done in just the last 24 hours? I was so tired. 

         "You'll regret not killing me. One day, I'll get you. I figured out how to stop your eyes, next could be your heart." His face twisted into anger at first but softened soon after. 

        "I'll just have to work extra hard to win you over." He leaned down and kissed my cheek. He lifted up slightly but was still way too close. "You don't realize the horrible things a man in my position could do. You're so lucky I have at least some morals." He chuckled softly and planted another more firm kiss on my cheek. I moved my head over and tried to push his face away. I wasn't sure what he was alluding to but I knew I didn't like the sound of it.

         "Just leave me alone, please." I say as I pull the covers over my head. To try and save my cheek from him. He chuckled as he tucked me in. 

         "Tomorrow I'll see what we can do about getting you a wheelchair. I love you, angel face and I always will." He says as he stands up. He leaves the door open just a crack yet again.

        One minute he's telling me how much he loves me the next he is threatening and then back to saying he loves me. I could feel he was starting to wear me down. Exhaust me mentally. Maybe it was this way all along. He was working on me while I was trying to fool him. 

          I closed my eyes and tried to forget all that I saw today and focus on a happier thought. I drew blood from a God today. His sight, his senses. They are a weak point. I knew what I had to do next; it was a matter of being brave enough to try. 

[justasupportunit]

Not Just Yet (Ryoji Mochizuki x Oc)

OC KISS WEEK!!! I missed two days so I kinda combined three.

Day 1) Almost (with a hint of Day 2 and 3 (Rain and Sunrise set))

TW: Attempted/Implied Su1c1de, mentions of death throughout. (If there's any more please let me know so I can add them!

Notes: The OC isn't named here, but their name is Lucian, this is kinda for a fic I'm writing about them!

This is it, you thought to yourself. Your feet staggered on the edge as you looked to the sky. You couldn’t help the tears that fell from your eyes. Why now.. Why now were you afraid of death’s kiss?

 You had no answer for yourself as you watched the sun begin to dim behind the horizon. ‘I’m sorry, but I have to go now.’ were the very words you wrote and left for someone to find. But where was it you wanted to go? You didn’t know. You swear you could feel someone watching you as you painfully let out a laugh. “W-why don’t I know…?” you stuttered. You haven’t even taken your shoes off yet, just the act of doing so scared you. It would push you further to something you were now doubting. You looked down at the ground, almost feeling faint looking at it. How did you not realize until now how high up you were? It felt like the whole world's eyes were on you, like death itself was waiting for you to do something– anything. 

You pictured your friends' faces. Mitsuru and Akihiko would definitely stop you right now, and maybe that was for the best. But.. they have their whole lives ahead of them… I.. I barely even know if I’ll have tomorrow. When all your days blur together… when time seems to drag on for eternity as well as all too fast, is that living? You didn’t know. Maybe there was something you could do to change it, maybe you could trust Akihiko and Mitsuru to help? Maybe… maybe you shouldn’t do this now.. 

You clenched your fists and hit your thigh with one. You couldn’t stand this hesitation you were now facing. But, you might be right, maybe now's not the time, maybe you can give it another day, see how things go. You wanted to scream. You were here again with no clue what to do, the feeling you dreaded the most, the feeling that made you want death's embrace in the first place. 

You don’t know why you even fell.

You didn’t scream as you did, you just looked at the sky. The sunset… Has never looked so beautiful…  You wished you could be there to see every beautiful sunset, every sunrise that would now never come, every starry sky that fascinated you to no end. Falling… really doesn’t feel fast… huh..

You saw something yellow appear in your vision, something that looked like a scarf. Weird. Then a ghostly hand grabbed your own. Before you knew it, you were falling with another. They smiled at you, their black hair flowing in the wind. For some reason, you felt relief in seeing them. Was this death? 

Your whole world began to dissipate, being swallowed by a void of rain. You watched as the sky disappeared, leaving you alone with death. You looked down, the ground hadn’t disappeared yet, and you were steadily approaching it. You felt your muscles tense as you prepared for impact, until you felt a hand redirect your gaze. Death forced you to look at it, before closing it’s eyes, bringing it’s lips close to yours. You felt your eyes grow heavy, shutting them shortly after. 

Yet, you weren’t falling when you re-opened them. 

“Hey sleepyhead~ Gonna get up?” you heard a voice call out to you. You looked around the unfamiliar terrain until you spotted a lanky guy with a yellow scarf, black hair and piercing blue eyes looking back at you. 

“W-who’re… who’re you?” you asked, your voice feeling almost foreign to yourself.

“Oh me? I’m… Ryoji.. Do you not remember me?” he asked. You shook your head causing him to pout. “Daw… well it’s okay! I’ve been watching you for quite some time now.. So let’s get up, yeah? You’ve got your whole life ahead of you.”

My… my life? Y-yeah… yeah. That’s right… my whole life…

You reached for Ryoji, only for him to partially disappear when you tried. “H-huh?”

“Oh.. sorry.. I’m kinda.. Not fully here. But don’t worry! I can still help you! Just.. picture me as your imaginary companion! Here to always protect you.” Ryoji flashed a smile towards you. “Now, let’s find a way out of here… so we can see that sunset again, yeah?”

[houseofbrat]

Why would H go along with it then?? Like he looks absolutely TERRIBLE, VICIOUS & HORRIBLY MEAN. What about all the details of W loving him etc? NO WAY would MM put that in. Or do you think it’s a collusion between H & M where they both end up making the other 1 look absolutely terrible?

Ya MM a 10000% is & was super-intimidated by H & the BRF. And since she’s a raging Narc, and Narcs hate that, she has to undermine & put him/them down.

If idk any better, it almost sounded like H was setting up his own divorce narrative with the way “M” has been portrayed In his memoir….

I think a lot of people don't realize how intellectually disabled Harry likely is. It was something Charles & Diana were just beginning to figure out when they separated & divorced. 

Harry was kept back for a full year at Ludgrove, specifically so he could try to make it into Eton. He couldn’t pass the Eton entrance exam. He may never have passed the Eton entrance exam. He probably only got in because he’s a royal and his older brother went there. 

Same for the military. Who knows what strings the BRF pulled to get Harry in and through Sandhurst. And through the rest of his time in the army. 

It’s one thing that keeps coming through in all the rumors about Harry in Hollywood: that he is seriously intellectually & emotionally disabled. To the point that it staggers belief of those gossiping about him. But it makes sense if you think about it because that’s why Meghan was able to get as far as she was with him and not in Hollywood. 

Why would he go along with it? He doesn’t have the brains to get himself out of this situation. He’s never had the intellectual skills most other people have. He’s always been reigned in by his friends and family. He doesn’t have his friends & family to listen to right now. He’s been bowled over by a narcissist with an ego that rivals Jupiter. 

By all accounts, he tried to stop the book being published months ago. Unfortunately for him, it was too late. If he had decided to completely ditch Meghan last fall, shortly after HMTQ’s funeral, then his family probably could have gotten him out of his book contract by paying back the publisher’s advance. Unfortunately for Harry, he was too slow in making that decision. He’s only gotten as far as a pre-separation agreement as of yet. 

I expect we’ll be hearing more behind-the-scenes details of this book as the year goes on. The original ghostwriter, the lies within the cover, etc. 

[laikaflash]

"The world wants me dead." for whoever you feel most inspired to write for, but if you want me to list a specific character, for zwei

It's been... a while in the making. (orz) Early on, I ended up thinking back on our convo on your fic "Shadows of his Past", and I won't deny the influence. So, this is how I imagine Z.W.E.I. lived shortly after his pact with E.I.N. because I felt this prompt suited that point in his life.

ETA: forgot to link the prompt list.

Hunted

Again, Z.W.E.I. felt the noose tighten in a dream. It was the nightmare that brought him back to the edge of the forest where Graf Dumas’ men nearly slew him. The clanging of their armor rang in his ears as they beat him senseless. When he staggered to his feet, sword in bloodied hand, a swift kick from a sabaton to his stomach brought him down. As he gasped on the ground, he saw the malicious glint in their eyes between their visors.

The captain said, “Shall we send this wretch where he belongs?”

After a roar of unanimous agreement, a noose fell around his neck and his arms were pulled backwards. As he was forced to stand, the crescent moon looked sickle-sharp and brighter than he had ever seen. Z.W.E.I. gnashed his teeth as the knights began to drag him, but the snarling that came next was not his.

He woke up sweating on his bedroll to the growling of the wolf spirit E.I.N. at his side. Without a second thought, Z.W.E.I. got up, grabbed his sword, and looked all around in the dark forest. There was no one in sight. Moonlight filtered through the bare canopy above, an eagle-owl hooted, and E.I.N. flattened his ears and bared his fangs at the slightest noises in the brush.

Z.W.E.I. lowered his sword and said, “Stand down, E.I.N. It was only a dream.”

E.I.N. ceased his bristling and fell silent, waiting for his next command.

“Rest,” Z.W.E.I. insisted as he put the sword away. “I don’t know how you sleep, but we won’t make it much farther like this.”

The spirit, with his eyes still alert, faded from sight.

Z.W.E.I. went back to his bedroll and curled up against the cold autumn air. He had hated to sleep alone, and now with E.I.N. at his command, he believed he had something better than a guard dog. Something that would make his situation all the more precarious, but the very thought of E.I.N. lunging to deliver the final blow to Graf Dumas had sustained him from town to town. There was no longer a place for him with the hajdúk*, and he had heard the Holy Roman Empire was rife with witch-hunters. No wonder, then, that the graf’s Malfested hunt began under the emperor’s auspices.

Then he thought about his dream. He rubbed the traces of the scar around his neck and felt cold sweat. He had almost died like an outlaw, and now the graf—and all who believed him—would surely condemn him as a Malfested. Perhaps the next time, the graf’s men would try to capture him alive and make an example of him at the gallows in Ödenburg.

“Let them try,” Z.W.E.I. hissed between his teeth. “If this kingdom wants me dead… The world wants me dead.” He put his hand over the crescent-shaped mark on his chest and silently vowed that even if he and E.I.N. were the only ones left to oppose the graf, they would bring an end to his Malfested hunt.

*At the time, Hungarian mercenary soldiers. Pronounced (to the best of my ability to approximate it) "hai-dook". The singular is "hajdú".

[nonuggetshere]

Would u be willing to share any tidbits about the faaf variant where Flower goes thru with the sealing?? (I’m p sure u said that exists and it’s not just the brainrot of my post sealing au that’s telling my brain that)

CRACKS MY KNUCKLES

WITH PLEASURE

So there's two variants, one where they break out after 5 years or one that follows Embrace The Void ending

After they're sealed, Hornet delivered the message they left to their boyfriends and family. They're shocked to see the goddamn princess at their doorstep at first. There are lots of tears and Hornet apologises for not being able to change their mind, but she's quickly hushed by Flower's partners and Lummis' parents. They share their grief and comfort each other, and Hornet is just as readily accepted into the family as her sibling was.

She tries to tell their father the truth, which is what they planned from the beginning because they were aware it was very likely they wouldn't be able to fight Radiance off forever, but Pale King wasn't taking their loss well so when faced with the possibility that the child he mourned all over again was alive all this time... He just couldn't accept it. It hurt too much to even consider. He couldn't. He had to be right.

This led to him and Hornet quickly falling out as she desperately tried to get him to believe her and he eventually snapped at her about being delusional and disrespecting her dead sibling's sacrifice. He immediately regretted it but the damage was done and she stormed off. Their relationship was never the same again, even when she gave up on nagging him, and once she grew up she just stopped visiting him or White Lady in the palace altogether, save for very sporadic occasions.

She spends a lot of time with Flower's family, practically becoming a part of it. Nobody back home understands what she's going through, nobody but she knew her sibling as a person, nobody knew who they were or how much they meant to her. But these people do, they're going through the same pain. And it's a little easier when they've got each other to rely on.

They frequently visit the temple and sit in front of the egg, talking to Flower as if they could hear them and catching them up with things that happened. They don't know if Flower can actually hear them, but it helps them cope, and if there is a small chance that they do they wouldn't want them to feel alone. (I have. A little dialogue written up for Hornet's visit, if you want your heart torn out)

So in one branch, Flower manages to win against Radiance after 5 years of torment.

She manages to break the chains and tries to stagger out of the egg, but Flower fights with her for control, they stumble over to their sword and stab themself. She wuns back control soon after, but realising they're losing Flower reaches out into that vast emptiness they always felt inside them since the day they were born. For that ancient, sleeping thing they were always terrified of.

The Lord of Shades is a separate character here. It's an ancient higher being, an actual sub-type of one that I very originally called void beings, it was the last one and its kind died with it after it lost to Radiance many eons ago; that is, until PK started to fuck around with its corpse and created the vessels. It basically allowed them to reawaken (since death doesn't work the same way if you were never alive to begun with) and it helps Flower, as in it possesses them and absolutely wrecks Radiance's shit. (I actually wrote this entire fight if you wanna see, I just don't wanna plop it down here bc its LONG)

Flower passes out and wakes up shortly after with no recollection of what happened past their initial fight with Radiance. They stagger back to their feet, and find that not only is She gone but the seals are also gone and the door is wide open. So they stagger back to the White Palace.

Pale King first figures out something's up when Radiance's dying scream literally shakes the entire kingdom to its core. Then, he gets the news that the dreamers are awake. He sends Dryya to fetch the queen from the gardens and talks with the other knights about going to check the temple, only for Dryya to return shortly after, telling him that the vessel has returned.

He rushes to see, and sure enough there they are. They look at him, for a moment everybody's tense, until they drop into a bow...and then shortly after pass the fuck out.

They're carried off to a room and taken care of.

The Pale King has to juggle a lot as the entire court just goes into chaos, and he's talking to the dreamers and a few other people, trying to figure out what the hell happened, when Hornet storms in and slaps him right in the face. She basically goes "I told you so" then storms off to go see her sibling.

They recover over a few weeks and when they wake up their little sister is pressed up close to their side fast asleep. They shake her awake and the two have a very happy reunion, and Flower gushes about how much she's grown only to then immediately make a joke about her height.

They've got a lot of shit to heal from and their parents avoid them like the plague after finally realising they are alive, so they've got that entire thing to worry about. And then there's also the fact that the Shade Lord never left and they have a fucked up venom-like situation on their hands. And they also have to figure out the entire thing of being the new god of dreams now.

That all can wait for now, though, as they finally get to go home and reunite with their lovers. There are a lot of tears and hugs and kisses, and they apologise so much for leaving them, but Petunia and Lummis quickly hush them saying they are just happy to have them back.

Another branch follows more along the lines of Embrace The Void ending, except more characters are alive, mainly the five great knights, The Pale King, as well as Broken Vessel (Spring) and Greenpath Vessel (Basil). Spring and Basil end up joining Ghost for a large portion of their travels, until the tail end of it where they just sit it out in Dirtmouth after Spring gets injured, leaving Ghost to go beat up their dad for the second part of the charm, go to the abyss, all that jazz.

After the infection dies out, it's mainly PK and his knights that try to rebuild the kingdom, while Hornet takes care of her sibling up in Dirtmouth.

Petunia and Lummis are also still alive, mostly because Hornet convinced Grimm to take them in as part of the troupe and troupe members age differently in this AU. I don't wanna get too much into it, basically Lum and Petunia and some of their family get to live longer but don't retain their memories of the time in the troupe after they're released by Grimm. I just need them to reunite with Flower okay.

Hornet also tells their father and the knights that Flower died to keep them from seeing them, and PK doesn't realise this isn't true until he goes to see his wife and she tells him she can still sense them up on the surface. He figures Hornet must have had a good reason to lie though so he doesn't pry.

Flower deals with a lot here and is much more bitter and angry and quick to choose violence, which actually terrifies them. They apologise so much to their partners, because they left their entire lives behind for them and they're not even the same person that they fell in love with. Lummis and Petunia of course tell them that's rubbish.

Basically, Flower's an emotional mess and has anger issues now that they've got to work through.

I could go in more detail but I've been writing for around an hour now and my thoughts are all over the place KDBDJDJD, if ya wanna know specifics of things that would happen like idk their reunion with their parents, just lmk

[kibaluvclub]

Title: On the run again

Warnings: death and suicide

Implied: Stony

Summary: Tony was selfish right, well what happens when he sacrifices himself for Steve

Dividers by @firefly-graphics​

Steve heard the shot but I didn't feel anything. Not the pain or the damp wetness of blood. he slowly lifted his face up and his eyes met with Tony. He had blood pouring out of his mouth besides the bruises and other marks left on his face the more noticeable one was the one in his abdomen, blood was seeping through the cracks in his suit like a waterfall. It had dripped onto the ground and some on Steve's shirt.

Tony quickly slumped over and his head fell on Steve's shoulder with a loud thud. None of this was graceful like Tony wanted to go. They had a conversation like this before, about how it would end. Tony said he wanted to die peacefully and be reincarnated as a dove. Being shot to death was anything but peaceful.

Steve's face felt wet but he couldn't tell if he was crying or if it was the blood dripping from Tony's other wounds. He didn't care for Tony at first but after spending time with the other boy and getting to know the real Tony instead of the "snobby I dont care attitude" everyone claimed he had. He wouldn't say it or admit it but he had grown feelings for the other but buried them deep hoping they wouldn't resurface.

The slow staggered breath that haunted his ears stopped meaning Tony was no more. He felt stupid for not trying hard enough to save both of them but the damage was done. Time felt so slow it only sped back up when another gunshot rang through Steve's ears. The one who held the gun and killed his friend shot himself and dropped to the floor. 

He didn't know the guy and just assumed they were some nobody hydra agent. But he knew he couldn't live with the guilt. He gently shifted Tony off of him and leaned him against the wall. His body hurt all over inside and out. He probably broke a rib or two trying to disarm the stranger. He spit in the killer's face before reaching for the gun. Steve grabs the gun squeezing it until his knuckles turned white.

He could hear a commotion outside and the door slammed open. 12 shield agents come in and charge at Steve yelling at him to put the gun down. "You're going to the raft cap." a random agent says with a disgusted look on his face. Steve was confused at first but it clicked, they think he killed his best friend. He made eye contact with Fury, who had walked in shortly after the agents busted the door open.

"Steve I know you didn't do it but you've been on thin ice since the accords and now Tony's dead. There's no other way to see this." Fury said before Maria had called his name. Natasha was there. She was looking at Tony's pale face. Her face showed no emotion but her eyes told a story. They were glossy and widened. The agent behind Steve started to push him out the room with unnecessary force.

"Let agent Romanoff take care of him." Fury called out with a small smirk taking over his mouth. Steve was confused but Natasha was more than happy to escort him out. "Ready to go on the run all over again." She whispers in his ear as the board the quinjet. A few familiar faces fill the seats. Half the team watched as Steve slowly walked on the jet.

Steve watched Natasha sit in the pilots seat before Clint got up and unlocked his handcuffs. "Why are you guys here?" He asked avoiding eye contact. "We know you are innocent Steve, all of all of us you'd be the least likely to kill Tony." Bucky said with a knowing look in his eyes. He knew about Steve's crush way before Steve did.

It was obvious when his best friend started acting different around a certain someone. Steve nods a thank you at Bucky before looking over at Wanda. "But you're just a kid! You already know what could happen." "Yes but this time we are a team." Steve felt a bit of pride knowing the girl who always had a hard time believing she was worth it and an actual Avenger called the group of misfits a team.

"Does the kid know yet?" Steve asked knowing Peter would be crushed. He looked around hoping someone would say yes. He wanted the kid to find out from a friend or someone close to him not some random news channel. "Pepper and happy are on their way to pick him up from school and deliver the news." Clint tells him while getting up to offer Steve his seat.

Steve gladly accepts and sits down with a groan. Bruce who had been sitting in the corner with headphones on and tears in his eyes walked over to Steve. "You can go to sleep. You don't seem to have a concussion but I'll need to check out those ribs." Steve sighed and closed his eyes. This was going to be a long trip.

[finerandbonnier]

The Eremitic Lodger

Chapter One of Lucian, just before the fall

[AO3]

A totally unrelated series of recollections, half remember truths, and outright fabrications regarding London shortly before the event that would come to be known as the Fall and that hold no greater meaning or significance.

I didn’t pay much attention to the voices at first if I’m being honest. In London if you drop everything to spy on whatever gaggle of drunks stagger past your window you’d never get anything done. Plus, being in the attic room, as I am, there was considerable distance between myself and the street.

Really, it’s a surprise I heard anything intelligible at all.

I think it was the mention of a betrayal that first piqued my interest.

Or was it a theft?

Yes, that was it. One of the voices in particular was really quite loud and kept going on about a theft and I got up from my bed to have a look and see, hoping that if my sleep was going to be disturbed then I might as well get some entertainment out of whatever drunken brawl was sure to start outside my window.

There was a small gathering on the other side of the road. They seemed quite a merry lot, in the euphemistic sense of the word if you catch my meaning. At first glance I took them for homogenous, all older, well-dressed gentlemen but then I noticed the odd one out in the middle of the group. He was dressed in the livery of an officer of Her Majesty’s Army, surrounded by the other men and gesticulating wildly.

I could just about make out his face barely illuminated as it was by the streetlamps. It didn’t mean anything to me then, I didn’t even realise I’d seen him before around the neighbourhood until Harjit showed me his picture months later.  

He must have been pretty far gone. He was slurring his words but his voice was raised enough to just carry through the thin glass of my window. He seemed agitated to me, even beyond what is usual for soldier in his cups and he kept talking about needing to warn everyone, about darkness and bats.

Wait.

Did he mention bats? Or have I just invented that out of whole cloth, linking an unrelated event to the catastrophe that happened only a few days later. He definitely talked about a disaster I remember that much, but that needn’t have meant the Fall. Much more likely it was some personal tragedy. The kind that to a drunk mind seems as monumental as the world’s end but turns much more manageable in the sober light of day.

I was just about to retire back to bed as I was, and I am ashamed to admit this knowing what I do now, bored at the lack of action when the group turned on the young officer. They picked him up about his armpits as one of them unlocked the door to the tenement across the road and carried the now struggling lad off through the threshold and into the darkness of the house. That was the last I saw of them.

It may have been the last I saw of the house come to think of it.

I’m told it disappeared during the Fall or sometime shortly after, replaced by a similar building that for months I took to be the original. Terribly unneighbourly I know, not to notice an adjacent property up and vanishing but I must confess I was somewhat out of sorts in the months following our decent through the earth’s crust.

Black dog, if you must know.

Still this all happened a few days before the Fall. The lad could hardly have been in the building when it disappeared, he wasn’t so drunk it’d take days to sleep off the hangover. And if he was? What that would do to a person? Well, that doesn’t bear thinking about now does it?

[aquatic-hybrid]

☭ x

Fight the wife,Akio

Battle Intro: Already flourishing his weapon, Akio twirled it around and showed a very confident smirk. "Finally!! Someone I don't have to hold myself back with. Let us dance, my beloved" With that Akio pointed the gunblade out towards her before getting ready in a battle stance.

Victory: After striking Asta with the blunt end of his weapon, Akio realized that the battle was over as she flew back a few feet and stayed on one knee. With a boastful cheer, Akio spun his gunblade at a fast pace with his hand before placing it over his shoulder. "Victory for me my dear pearl, Akio seven, Asta six."

Half HP: "Yeah! That's what I am talking about!" Akio exclaimed after a fiery clash against the dragon Vastayan. The mixture of blue flames and weapons, truly showcasing their power and skills against one another.

Low HP: Having just received a kick to the chin by Asta after she parried his attack. Akio was left staggered for a moment before quickly shaking himself off, "Glad to see your kicks are still lethal, baby! Sadly, it will take more than that to make me fall." With a quick flair, Akio returned to combat his beloved.

Defeat: With the final clash coming to a close, Akio dashed towards Asta with his weapon at the ready. However, using a mixture of jumps to dodged Akio's attacks, Asta was able to disarm Akio with her spear. Taking the perfect chance to drop-kick him quite the distance away. "Victory on my end, my treasure. How did you say last time? Oh right, Asta seven, Akio six~" With a grunt, Akio sat back up. "I will get you next time!"

Assist: "On the way!" Akio exclaimed, swinging a fiery blade to assist Asta in her assault. Shortly after, he gave her a wink before stepping back.

Taunt: Once a clash was dealt, Akio jumped back and with a taunting smirk, he lowered his stance and held his weapon across from him. As if imitating a samurai stance, "Getting tired already Asta? I can rock all day~"

Reacting to Taunt: Having barely been able to block Asta's kick with his weapon. Akio was forced to make some distance, sadly, such choice allowed Asta to do a slight sway of her hips in a taunting manner. "Can't keep up with my dear? Or am I distracting you?" In which Akio laughed in return, "Oh, you are going to get it soon."

Flee: Seeing that things were becoming a stalemate, Akio decided to be cheeky this time around. Able to clash against her once more, Akio swept her leg and while she was mid-falling, decided to hit her with his hip. "Sorry love~ Gotta go, jobs calling."

Reacting to Flee: Having his guard broken, Akio was already preparing himself for the incoming kick to the stomach. However, what ended up happening was a spear being thrown at him and catching his jacket. Leaving him stuck to the wall now, "Hey!! Don't leave me here!!"

Tie: Both Vastayans trying their best to catch their breath, it was unspoken in their gestures. Both agreeing on a tie.

Perfect Victory: Looking down at the very annoyed Asta, Akio rested his chin against the hilt of his weapon. "Really now? I am offended you went easy on me"

Low HP Victory: Feeling how the bruises and cuts were starting to sting, Akio still stood staright as he stabbed his weapon to the ground. "And THAT is, we handle things. Got a little too cocky at the end there my love."

Finishing Move: Squaring up against Asta, Akio already predicted her next move. The way in which she recoiled her legs for a jump attack, made Akio wind-up one of his legs back to counter. Once she engaged her attack, all Akio truly did was measure the distance and partially side step. Due to her speed, Asta couldn't correct herself as she was greeted by Akio's intercepting kick, causing her to fully stumble and roll off a few feet. "Won't work on me twice, baby. Victory is mine today."

[convxction]

ooc. OK FINE SO YOU WANNA KNOW WHAT WAS I GOING TO SEND FINE HERE YOU GO. READ.

"Damn...it ...!" a blooded cough followed up as he tried to pull himself up. It does not help that he only got one arm to do that. He had just lost his left arm when he protected that cadet from the Rursan attack. He had seen some gory shit in his life but to see his own arm just ... fly like it was a butter that was cut off. He'll be damned if he would let these cursed creatures lay a finger on his students even at the cost of his life. Hadn't they suffered enough? Now sky, heaven--whatever you want to call it, sending these demonic unkillable monsters at them? What did they do wrong? Wasn't the Crystal guiding them? Wasn't this what the Crystal wanted?? What is the meaning of all of this!? No one explained! No one can explain; everyone's dead ... Fending off another attack, he staggered to the back. Thankfully, he could keep up for a little bit until the cadet managed to sneak inside the academy. Aahh ... that's better. At least one ... at least he could've saved one. Damn it, if he could stop this thing! Why can't he kill it!? "DAMN YOU!!" a war cry before he dashed at the time-ending-creature. Akira would come shortly after hearing from the cadet about what happened outside to find Chrom laying in his own blood pool, hacking blood. "....ki.... safe .....? .....g..od ....." he took one last sharp breath to say something, "Lissa .... in your ....." his mouth moved but no sound came out. The light faded from his eyes as his body ceased to move. Ah, damn ... the crystal would make him forget ... damn it... were they fighting in vain?

bye.

[insomniasymphony]

Hisoka Morow x Female Reader (Deserved)

Notice before: If you wonderful people like my stuff, please consider buying me a coffee on Ko-Fi ~♥

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Constellation: Hisoka Morow x Female Reader Task got: Amusement park, sharing a kiss  Rating: General Audience Requested by:  @dreamcastgirl99

       ►►If you want to gain something        you have to deserve it.        Just like he did.◄◄

[Picture is from a card collecting game]

.

The noise of the people around you makes you sigh more than once. Your ears are ringing, people are shouting, everyone is talking to everybody and the smell of roasted almonds lurks in between.

Your shoulders droop listlessly, for even if your mission is clear, it seems impossible to find the man Chrollo wants dead in the middle of that crowd. Not even Hisoka at your side makes it easier, you realise, and your gaze wanders to the magician who has bought candyfloss purely out of camouflage.

His gaze wanders over the heads of the others as well, as he pushes the pink mass between his lips with pointed fingers, driving you minimally insane. You'll never get out of this amusement park this way.

“We need a plan,” you whisper quietly to yourself, but thoughts never go undetected when Hisoka is around.

“A little entertainment never hurts,” he purrs, making you jump a foot to the side before you take a breath. The smile on his features holds nothing but mischief as he hands you the candyfloss and you accept with pursed lips.

It's always like this between you.

Ever since he became part of the Phantom Troupe, you've been with him. You spend more time with him than with anyone else you know, and some days it actually feels like a relationship between you.

A daydream that you often pay far too much attention to. Not least because you know the days with him are limited. One day, he will go away and leave you behind. He's only part of the troupe because of Chrollo.

“We have orders,” you reply in the end. “The boss won't be happy if we can't even manage that. And you don't want him not to see you as an opponent, do you?”

Momentarily, Hisoka's lips pucker before a pout slides onto his features and he plucks some of the candyfloss in your hand.

You know what he's planning, and even though you'd have to inform Chrollo of it because Hisoka will soon be your enemy and betray each of you, you can't bring yourself to utter a single word. Hisoka knows that. And whenever you face Chrollo, he watches you with a smile.

Whenever your heart is pounding up to your throat and heat pierces your body.

It's hardly different in these seconds, but you're in an amusement park. Chrollo isn't around, and you can allow yourself to be a little braver.

“Maybe we'll find our target if we climb the Ferris wheel,” you suggest. “It should be much easier to find our problem from above.”

Without further ado, you glance at the magician, only to be met with mild amazement, followed by a knowing smile. It almost seems as if he can read your every thought, and it makes every movement and word in your head a little more helpless.

“That sounds like a promising idea,” he then agrees. Shortly after, he takes action, sauntering through the crowds, defiantly standing out amongst them.

His way of dressing makes it easy for you to follow him. Nevertheless, hot bodies press against yours, the smell of sweat and sweets is in the air and whenever you can, you take a deep breath in otherwise suffocating circumstances.

The breath is heavy in your lungs, and Hisoka keeps slipping out of sight. Finding him again is easy, but sticking to him is hard.

The careless figures around you seem to thunder against you now and then and one of them accidentally tears the candy floss out of your hands. It floats to the ground, yet you have no chance to mourn it as someone pushes you forward and you trip over your feet.

A hiss crosses your lips, and yet no one seems to hear you. The Ferris wheel is within reach, but Hisoka has disappeared.

The stuffy air goes to your head for a moment, making you stagger, as it's a confinement you don't need. The empty spaces are suddenly not empty enough and everything in you longs to escape onto a building to keep track.

It takes over every fibre of your body, but still can't engulf you before slender fingers settle on your shoulder and pull you aside in one go.

You stumble onto a metal grate, straight next to a ticket booth, its vendor looking at you with wide eyes.

“With her.” Hisoka's voice nestles against your ears, crooning, so you turn to face him. Indeed, he has released you from the crowd, just in time to present you as a partner for a cabin on the Ferris wheel.

The racing pulse in your chest subsides, allowing you to take a breath and simultaneously bring the tingling of your skin to the forefront as you are closer to Hisoka than usual.

The tickets are pushed across the counter at least as hesitantly as you take them, while Hisoka presents his Hunter licence and enjoys the privilege of not having to pay anything for both of you. Shortly afterwards, he is already pushing you into the cabin, so you find space on a bench.

“Thank you,” you finally utter, only to catch another of his smiles. This time there is something charming, almost endearing about it, and although you would like to enjoy your time with him, you can't help but glance out.

There is still a target to kill and Hisoka isn't the man to satisfy you in these seconds. Not in the way you'd like.

The wheel starts turning shortly after. The slight swaying makes your insides sway with it and whenever you think you see no change in the people on the ground, you cast a glance at Hisoka.

He, though, is glued to his mobile phone. His fingers tap across the screen as if he's writing a message to someone who definitely won't be pleased with his words. Of course, he doesn't care much for Chrollo's orders, and since you're working with him, he no longer has to fake it.

Somehow, you have reached an agreement that everyone goes their own way.

The highest point of the Ferris wheel gives you a view over the entire amusement park. In the distance, you see people throwing their hands up in the air on a roller coaster. Children shoot cuddly toys at stands. Sweets are being eaten at every turn, but nowhere can you spot your target.

“You'd almost think we might as well enjoy ourselves,” you mutter in frustration. If you can't fulfil Chrollo's order, he'll have to take a few extra steps that will stop him, and it will be entirely your fault.

Not that your boss resents this mess, but you can already hear Feitan swearing.

“That certainly sounds like a fascinating pastime.” Without further ado, Hisoka settles down beside you and you can't help but give him your full attention.

He takes the moment to grin at you. His hand gently rests under your chin as his thumb brushes your lips. His every move is like an invitation and by now you've been at his side too long, too thirsty for him, that you wouldn't dare to make a move on him.

“I'll gladly leave you free to make a suggestion we might both enjoy,” you breathe back to him. It's a soft, willing sigh that comes off your tongue and causes Hisoka to move closer.

His face moves towards you so you can almost feel his lips on yours. His breath warmly grazes your senses, your skin, your perception, and his wayward scent, so masculine yet playful, clings to your essence.

You would only have to press against him a little, to come towards him, and you would get the kiss you have been craving for a while.

But the wheel stops before you can make your decision. Someone yanks open the door. You're both waved out, and it's Hisoka who breaks away from you first.

Your legs follow him, swaying. The weakness of your body is indeed there, having eaten into your nerve endings and yet giving you nothing more than a sorrowful groan because you never get what you desire.

You're just coming down from the iron gate and find a brief halt next to Hisoka, before the ugly red suit of a man who looks treacherously similar to your target catches your eye – and sure enough, his face turns out to be the one that has escaped you all this time.

Something is luring him into the shadows of a carousel as you grab Hisoka by the wrist and follow him.

The magician lets you lead him so you arrive without obstacles the same moment your target pulls out a phone and tries to dial a number.

“Do you want to or should I?” Without further ado, you give Hisoka a quick look.

“I'm happy to let the lady go first.”

Again, you turn your attention to your obstacle, trying to focus your Nen to come up with a good way to kill your target. There are quite a few ways you could choose. A gun, a quick snap of the neck – all is possible.

But before you can decide, the edge of a playing card sinks deep into his skull, robbing you of any options. Your target falters for a moment before collapsing and remaining motionless. Blood barely gathers.

“I thought you were going to leave the killing to me?” Hands on hips, you turn to face him. Motionless pleasure, however, is all you encounter.

It's a fleeting moment of realisation before his hands settle on your cheeks, trapping you, and his lips follow shortly. Heat spreads across your mouth as any distance between you vanishes and his kiss lingers velvety on your senses. For long drawn-out seconds, there seems to be only this solitary togetherness before he pulls away from you just as unexpectedly and runs his tongue over his lips.

“I figured I deserved that kiss.”

You open your mouth, wanting to say something, to curse him and simultaneously pull him to you once more to taste him. But Hisoka's time is a constant stepping stone between what needs to be and what you plan to do.

Any interest he can muster for you in one second disappears in the next as he turns and walks a few steps ahead. The only thing he leaves you with is a passing heartbeat of questions.

“We should go. Chrollo's already expecting us, isn't he?” His desire is again directed entirely at your boss. The rest is forgotten.

And though the kiss between you will probably never fade completely, it will never be enough to bridge the distance between you.

Not even if it was deserved.

[legends-of-time]

The Journey of Living at Downton

Chapter 44: January to Early May 1925

Masterlist

Emma, Tom, Ivy and Michael all stay long enough for Marigold's second birthday but the first at Downton and by late January, they're off to Boston while Atticus and Rose leave shortly after.

Emma, three months pregnant, staggers off the ship, one hand clasped to her mouth while the other holds Ivy's hand. Tom follows with Michael and a suitcase.

"Oh, Christ," Emma mutters wincing, now glad to be on solid ground. The cold temporarily distracts her from her nausea. Why did no one tell her winters in Boston are absolutely freezing?!

"Mama not well?" She hears Michael ask.

"She'll be fine," Tom reassures their son, as he places him down and then grips his hand tightly. "Boat was a bit much for her, that's all." He sounds calm but flashes Emma a concerned look to which Emma swallows and tries to give him a reassuring smile.

"Tommy! Tommy Branson!"

Emma looks up, scanning the dock for the owner of the voice and finds a wiry, dark-haired fellow coming bearing down on them, bustling through the crowds and waving heartily, a big, welcoming smile on his face.

"You made it then?" He greets them.

"Aye, we did. It's good to see you, Patrick." Tom says, breaking into an answering smile.

"You too, cousin, you too." Patrick replies, pumping Tom's hand enthusiastically.

Tom gestures to Emma with the suitcase. "This my wife, Emma."

Emma presses on a smile and holds out her hand politely. "How do you do, Cousin Patrick."

Patrick's eyes widen, but he takes her hand and shakes it. "Jaysus, you really married a proper English lady, eh, Tommy? 'How do you do'?"

Emma clenches her jaw, alert to any suggestion that Tom's cousin might be making fun of her even as they'd only just stepped onto American soil.

Patrick looks down smiling at Ivy and Michael, who are staring up at him with wide eyes. "And who do we have here?"

"This is our daughter, Ivy and our son, Michael. Michael, Ivy, this is Cousin Patrick." Tom says, making the introductions.

"Hello." Ivy says while Michael stares on shyly. Emma narrows her eyes at Patrick's raised eyebrows once he hears her daughter's English accent.

"So, where's your luggage?" Patrick asks, peering around. "I'm guessing you didn't come over in steerage with just that one little suitcase you've got there."

"No, we have some trunks." Emma replies shortly. "We were going to come second class, but Robert wouldn't hear of it. It was his parting gift to upgrade us to first."

Patrick snorts. "Very nice too. But then I suppose that's what comes of living with rich aristos. You'll need to go to the luggage collection office then. It's just over there. I'll flag down a taxi while you're sorting it out. I'll see you out front in ten minutes."

With that, Patrick hustles off, leaving them standing on the quayside. Emma watches him go, a sliver of unease pricking at her as she wonders whether they are doing the right thing.

——

They stay with Cousin Patrick, his wife Kathleen and kids Pat Junior, Kathy, Rose, Philip and Bridie for the first few weeks.

After spending the weekend getting used to their new surroundings, Tom is thrown into work as Patrick takes him to see the business. His cousin has a good set-up: a few shiny cars in the showroom and a garage out back with a couple of mechanics labouring under the bonnets of the cars in for repair.

In late January/early February, with Kathleen's help, they found a ground-floor flat available to rent not far from their cousin's house. It is long and thin, with a corridor running the length of it from the front door to the kitchen at the far end. Off the corridor were the parlour, the dining room, a tiny bathroom and two bedrooms, one large enough for a double bed and a wardrobe, the other big enough for two single beds and a few bits of furniture. Outside is a small private garden the children can play in. It was is far cry from the expansive grounds of Downton, but it gives them both a little bit of green space to enjoy.

It takes them a while before everything is settled in, Ivy with her school and Tom settling into his new job. Emma hasn't been able to apply to any nursing jobs, first. It is because they believed at least one parent should be at home, supporting the children as they settle into a new country and since Tom is the one already with a job, it makes sense Emma will take that role. Then, while Emma is only five or six months pregnant, they know hospitals would be reluctant to hire her (yay to female rights that do not exist) unlike Downton where she had been there a good while beforehand.

——

What's interesting about travelling back in time is getting used to the different modes of communication. When you travel to early 20th century Yorkshire, you're faced with writing letters. Emma thankfully didn't have to write any letters at first as everyone she knew was a short walk away or living in the same house as her, so she was not faced with having to write any nor experience how slow it is compared to texting. Then, when in London, Gemma sent her a letter regaling her in life at Downton for those left behind and Emma was faced with the panic of having to write a letter, thankfully they were passed between them quite speedily. Then there was the odd letter she had written to Tom and Gemma when she and Sybil were having their nurse training but both that and London were only temporary. But then she moved to Dublin and the letter quantity increased as well as the time they took and the expense, but it wasn't too bad then she moved to Boston though they had a higher income this time.

They usually send one letter with little notes for specific members of the house. Emma makes sure to send some to Thomas on the latest drama downstairs (there are murmurings of people possibly being let go and Thomas worries he's on the chopping block) while Tom questions Mary and Robert on how the estate is running (Mallerton, a neighbour ring estate is being sold), Mary has officially taken over Tom's role. Both of them share notes with Edith on what she is doing next for her paper though it seems she's having trouble with the editor and is contemplating what to do with her London flat - whether to lease it out, sell it, or live in it herself. And also, Billy and his struggles to escape the flirtatious nature of his office's new secretary.

Mary's letters are a mixture of news about the family and the business, telling him about George, the estate, the pigs and a couple of Mary's social engagements, plus a brief bitchy moment about Edith.

Mary privately tells Emma a former chambermaid at the Grand Hotel where Mary spent the night with Anthony Gillingham and attempted to blackmail her into giving her money in exchange for her not selling it to the press. Though thankfully it's resolved through Robert paying her off with a smaller amount and getting her to sign a confession of attempted blackmail.

They receive welcome news in March, the case of the murder of Mr Green has finally come to an end with a woman confessing to his murder. Robert, Cora, Mary and Edith apparently go downstairs to the kitchen to share in the good news with the servants, all sharing a glass of champagne together in celebration. Emma and Tom make their own toast.

——

March 1925

Emma, now five months pregnant, is hurrying along the street from the shops, bags full of groceries. She had paid a local girl to keep an eye on the children but only for a short while and time had run away from her while she'd been getting food. She just gets to the top of her road when she stumbles and drops one of her bags, the insides spilling out.

"For Christ's sake!" She cries.

Before she can begin putting her other bags down to collect the dropped produce, a voice interrupts. "Like some help with that?"

Emma looks up to see a woman not much older than her walking towards her. She recognises her as one of the neighbours, Bridget Rice.

"Oh, no, l-I'm good. Thank you." Emma tries to insist, feeling embarrassed.

"Now just you never mind." She bends down and collects it all back into the bag. "Here." She doesn't hand it back to Emma though, continuing to hold it.

"Thank you." Emma mumbles.

"I remember when I was having my first." Mrs Rice says. "My back ached something fierce, and that handsome, but lazy sack of bones I call a husband never did lift a finger."

Emma frowns. "Oh, well my husband isn't like that."

"Oh, you lucky thing." Mrs Rice remarks. "Your husband is a strange one, so I suppose that makes sense."

Emma narrows her eyes. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Mrs Rice shrugs causing Drew's to pool in Emma's stomach. "Well, it's just I thought he was a republican, fighting for Ireland's freedom like the rest of us but instead he's married you and lived with an English Earl."

"He still believes in Ireland's freedom. We both do." Emma retorts.

"Sure, you do." Mrs Rice says, looking her up and down doubtfully. Emma feels like she is being patronised.

"Well," Emma utters sharply, pulling the bag from Mrs Rice's hand, "thank you for your help, Mrs Rice, but I must get back to the children."

"Of course." And she's not happy with that smile.

——

Early April 1925

Emma emerges from the house into the garden to call in the children to find Ivy pulling Michael along with a string attached to his wrist. Okay...

"What are you doing?" Emma asks as she hurries over to them as best she can with her six-month stomach. The children stop, turning to her with a grin.

"Having our own hunting party, Mama!" Ivy declares. "Just like Auntie Mary and Donk!"

"I'm a dog!" Michael tells her.

"Well, be careful with your little brother, Ivy." Emma warns her daughter. From what she can see of Michael's wrist, Ivy hasn't pulled on the string thankfully but can never be too careful.

Michael pouts. "I'm big, Mama!"

Emma smiles softly, stroking his hair back from his forehead. "I know you are, my little man but Mama worries."

She does worry about her children. Ivy has become good friends with Bridie, Patrick's youngest daughter, and Michael with Philip, the youngest son. Ivy also adores Kathleen and Kathy while Michael trails wide-eyed after Pat Junior. The local children are unkind to Ivy in particular but after promptly pinching one in the face after they began insulting Robert, the other kids have left her alone when she is playing outside. But it means, that apart from Bridie and Philip, Michael and Ivy don't have any other friends, which breaks Emma's heart.

As far as Emma can see, Ivy in particular isn't completely unhappy in Boston... but she isn't happy either. America hasn't changed her life for the better like Emma hoped. Not to her mind anyway. In fact, she is worried it has made it worse.

——

Dear Mary,

It warms my heart to hear from all of you on the goings on at Downton, it often shocks me how much happens!

I know I've already said it but thank you for the gifts you sent for Michael's birthday in February. He absolutely adores that bike and is already arguing that he's big enough to ride a proper big bike and gets annoyed when we tell him no. I still can't believe he's already three. He's running around like mad after Ivy now so it's good that we found a flat with a garden. Ivy's settling in and she'll be picking up the accent in no time I'm sure so you'll have to warn your father and grandmother of it before we all see you next. I'm sure Cora will be thrilled.

With Tom so busy since they've opened a new sales room, it's down to me to keep them in check. It's proving successful as a venture, pulling in both farmers after modern machinery and ordinary citizens after an automobile. America is embracing the motor car more quickly than England, I think, probably because the distances between places seem greater here. Patrick assures us sales will pick up even further as the weather becomes warmer as people like to drive out of the city during the hot summer months. You'll be pleased to hear the last significant snowfall we had was in March. The weather is definitely improving. They're going to have to hire another person for the salesroom at this rate.

I'm glad to hear you're taking over the role of agent as I worry that anyone would understand just how much you care about Downton. Tom feels your pain when you talk about Robert and his adherence to the old-fashioned way of doing things with the estate. I know it used to drive both Tom and Matthew mad. I don't want you to fall out with him but don't forget, Mary, that while he is the earl, you own Downton as much as he does. I know you're very aware of the fact that you're safeguarding the estate for George. Your opinion counts for much.

I am happy to hear Downton did so well at the Livestock show. I know you still see your sister's behaviour as 'faux mothering syndrome' and that you think her worry about Marigold going missing at the show even for a moment was silly but be kind to your sister, she deserves to have someone else to focus on and no child should have too much love. Also, I know your father should've discussed with you about the Drewes leaving but I'm sure everything's fine and it's not that big of a mystery. Though, reading about the family day out, the twists and turns makes me feel tearful as I read it. It's true what they say: distance makes the heart grow fonder.

You shouldn't be surprised that I'm on your mother's and Isobel's side when it comes to the fate of the Downton Hospital. A modernised Hospital will be good for patients. Your grandmother shouldn't forget it's not her who's in the firing line when it comes to medical treatment. Though I can say your description of Robert being the piggy in the middle of it all.

Now, about Mr Carson and Mrs Hughes, you must let Mrs Hughes decide where to hold her wedding breakfast. I know you mean well, my love, but it is her day, not yours. And I am quite sure that Mr Carson will be happy as long as she is happy. He loves her, so he will put her first and do what he thinks is best for her and that will be giving her what she wants on their wedding day. It may not be your idea of a wedding breakfast, but you must allow her to have things as she wants them on her special day. Promise me you won't interfere with their plans, no matter how tempted you are to do so. It's their day, not yours.

Also, are you sure Rose may be pregnant? Or should I contain myself from jumping up and down in excitement?

I'm not sure I would describe our life in Boston as exactly 'fish back in water' so to speak. The Irish community has definitely had varying opinions on Tom and I's backgrounds.

I haven't told Tom yet, but I am missing Downton, more than I thought I would. I dreamt last night I was in the park at Downton, walking with Ivy and Michael under the great trees, listening to the pigeons cooing in their branches. And when I woke, my eyes were filled with tears. I'm missing you all more than I ever thought I would.

Anyway, on that cheery note, considering all that's going on, it might be difficult for us to attend Mrs Hughes and Mr Carson's wedding as I imagine it'll be sometime soon. Don't be too controlling and give them my best wishes.

All the best,

Emma.

——

Late April 1925

"You might think it's stupid—" Tom begins to say one evening. They'd just finished cleaning up after their dinner, the kids in bed after a long day at school. Emma had spent the day with Kathleen, taking a walk in the park to feed the ducks (Ivy had pleaded with her to after they couldn't go over the weekend due to the weather) and sending off her latest letter home.

Emma put up her hand cutting him off, pulling herself from her position of lying on his chest. "I'm going to stop you there. When have you ever said something stupid?"

"What about when I was ranting and raving the first time both of us experienced having dinner with Larry Grey?" Tom reminds her pointedly.

Emma rolls her eyes. "In your defence, you'd been drugged. And so had Billy, so you weren't alone."

"True." Tom shrugs before shifting nervously. "Anyway, I, uh, I've been thinking."

"About?"

"Us, the children, Boston. Whether it's a right fit for us. I wasn't sure right from the beginning whether we were doing the right thing in coming to Boston, but I felt I had to try." Tom says, the words tumbling out of him.

"Me too." Emma admits. "When we came here, I thought it was for good with the odd visit back to Downton but now I'm wondering if we made the right decision. The children miss it."

"I know what you mean. I hoped that– I wanted the children would have a fresh start somewhere where they wouldn't have all the baggage they'd have in England." Tom confesses. "Somewhere where having working-class parents living with the upper class wouldn't mean a damn thing. Seems I was wrong about that. It seems the Irish care about that even more than most of the English."

"For the opposite reason mind you." Emma points out. "I am realising more and more that the Irish and Irish Americans we meet here see me and the children as utterly and irredeemably English and – with a few notable exceptions – most of them greet both of us with a strong distrust."

"That's what is making this all so wrong for me. The children, I don't want them to have to wake up every day and know that there are people in the world who hate them simply because of who their parents are. That didn't happen at home." Tom scrunches up his nose distastefully then. "For once, the English have proved themselves more tolerant than the Irish in that respect."

Emma lets out a snort. "Did you just call Downton home?" She smirks.

Tom rolls his eyes. "Don't give me that look, it's home to you too."

"It is." She admits. "I think Downton is home for all of us now, maybe more than when we were in Dublin. They took me in when I had nowhere to go, helped me find my footing in a world that used to be over a century old to me even though they didn't know it. I wanted to desperately give Boston a chance but the way they treat all of us, like we're the enemies."

"All of Patrick's friends," Tom says, "they think I might be reporting back to British military intelligence."

Emma scoffs. "I don't get it. You were literally banished from Ireland while fighting for its independence."

"Tell that to the boys." Tom retorts.

Emma smiles a self-deprecating smile. "Being married to me probably doesn't help."

"Hey," Tom strokes her cheek softly. "Being married to you and having the children is the only things keeping me sane."

"Bridget Rice thinks different." Emma grumbles.

"Bridget Rice doesn't know you." Tom argues, grinning. "I could tell her all sorts things about you that makes you nice."

Emma giggles and they share a kiss.

"When do you want to leave?" Emma asks, pulling back.

Tom hums softly, stroking her stomach as he thinks. "There's a certain wedding in a few weeks weeks that I'd like us to make it back in time for if we can. Mrs Hughes has been kind to us over the years, I want to wish them well."

Emma nods, agreeing with that idea. "You'll need to tell Patrick soon."

"He already knows."

"What?!" Emma exclaims. "But we've only just decided."

"Apparently it were already obvious." Tom grins. "He sat me down today, asking what date we're leaving. Turns out they already suspected we'd be leaving and put an advertisement in a few newspapers and trade publications for someone. He's asked me to look through the possible candidates."

"Better get started then." Emma declares.

——

16th May 1925

The door opens and a hall boy stands there, which is unusual. It is rare that Mr Carson, Mr Bates' Thomas and the footmen, Albert, Andy and Mr Molesley, would all be out at the same time.

"Can I help you?" He says automatically, then looks at them, Emma, Tom and two sleepy children in their arms plus luggage that they'd already taken out of the car they had taken from the Station.

Peter's face breaks into a surprised expression. "Mr and Mrs Branson, no one said you were coming today."

Tom smiles. "No, well we wanted it to be a surprise, so the family didn't know we were."

They go inside. "Is anyone in Peter?" Emma asks the hall boy.

"No Ma'am, they are down at Mr Carson and Mrs Hughes wedding in the Village." He tells them.

"That's today? Oh, I thought it was tomorrow. So, you are on your own?" He nods in response.

"Right, well in that case, let me help you get our luggage inside." Tom says. "Mr Carson need never know that you didn't do it on your own if you don't tell him." Peter nods and begins to do so. Tom turns to Emma. "You take a seat in the Library with the children, put your feet up, then we'll go down to the Village to find everyone."

Emma nods, taking the children through.

Thirty minutes later they walk back down the drive towards the Village, or more accurately Tom walks, Emma waddles and the children run ahead, then back to their parents, trying to encourage them to hurry up. Smiling at their antics, Emma and Tom keep their pace considering Emma can't exactly run at seven months pregnant.

Ivy and Michael stop inside the gates when they reach them and wait for me, remembering our rule that they must not go through without either their parents, one of the family or staff with them. Emma is glad they had remembered the rule before they had needed to call out to her.

——

They stand outside the School Hall in Downton Village. Michael balances on Tom's hip and Ivy grips her mother's hand, staring at the entrance, hearing the rumble of Mr Carson's deep voice through the open door. A mixture of nerves and anticipation churns inside Emma at the thought of seeing them again after all these months.

Ivy shifts next to her, drawing Emma's attention. "Ready?" She asks her.

Ivy beams at her and nods. "Ready."

Emma shares a look with Tom who nods and takes a deep breath and walks into the building.

The first thing Emma sees is the decorations. It is cheerfully decorated with the traditional sit-down wedding breakfast with groaning tables. Her breath catches as she takes in all the familiar faces. Anna stands beaming next to Mr Bates, Daisy stands with Mr Mason and Mrs Patmore with Andy and Thomas lingering nearby. Isobel and Violet are gathered together, and Robert, Cora, Billy, Edith and Mary stand with their backs to the doors. All gaze upon the couple in the centre of the room.

Then Robert leads the toast to the happy couple. "The bride and groom!"

The crowd of people in the room echo the toast.

"To the bride and groom." Emma and Tom both say in the ensuing silence that follows as the guests sip their drinks.

A sea of faces whirls around to face the newcomers. The family's faces light up at the sight of them standing there at the back of the room.

"Emma! Tom! And Ivy and Michael, darlings! What are you doing here? And how did you know where to find us?" Mary cries happily. She moves towards them, joined by Billy, Cora and Edith, and embraces Tom and Emma in turn.

Emma laughs, slightly embarrassed. "I got the dates wrong, thought the wedding was tomorrow," she receives an embrace from Cora who turns to greet Tom, "but we turn up at Downton to be greeted by the hall boy who told us where you were." An embrace comes from Cora too.

Tom turns to Mr Carson and Mrs Hughes (or should they say Mrs Carson?) with a smile. "And it means that we can congratulate you in person. Mr and Mrs Carson."

"Oh, are you back for a holiday?" Mrs Hughes asks, very touched.

"Say you'll stay!" Mary begs.

"That's just the point." Emma replies. "We can stay as long as you want us."

"I don't understand. What are you saying?" Edith asks, with a hesitant smile.

"Just this. That we've come back and we'd like to stay for good." Tom explains. "If Lord Grantham will have us."

"Of course, we'll have you!" Cora exclaims. "We'll be delighted!"

"I echo every syllable." Robert says very happily. He takes Michael into his arms. "Hello, Michael, my boy! Give old Donk a kiss!" They kiss.

Ivy pulls away from Emma. "And me!"

"Oh! And you of course!" Robert hands Michael over to Cora to happily greet Ivy.

"Emma, Tom, this is amazing news. Are you sure?" Billy eagerly questions, getting his chance to embrace Emma with a kiss on her cheek and shakes hands with Tom.

"Don't worry." Emma reassures. "We're really, really sure."

Robert puts Ivy down and shakes Tom's hand cordially before greeting Emma with a kiss on the cheek.

"So, what happened?" Billy asks.

"Well, it's quite simple. He had to drag me all the way to Boston," Emma's comment receives a few chuckles, "to work it out and it took us a while, but we got there in the end."

"Go on, what was it?" Mary presses.

"We learned that Downton is our home. And that you are our family. If we didn't quite know that before we left, we know it now." Tom answers tearfully.

George and Sybbie have spotted Michael and Ivy, waving. Cora and the nannies put the children down, and George and Sybbie run to Ivy and Michael and give them hugs. Little Marigold totters after them.

"Marigold?" Edith softly encourages her daughter to say hello, too.

Marigold walks up to Ivy and Michael, rather more shyly than George and Sybbie. Ivy puts her arms around her. "Hello!"

Michael decides to join in by wrapping his arms around Marigold as well.

And everybody coos over them happily. Emma's heart swells. She's definitely not crying.

——

A/N: Please leave comments on how you're enjoying this story and what you think.