#he said BOSS ME PLS MA'AM | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

milks-writings · 5 years ago

Note

Hey hey heyy! 👋🏻 Can I request a hcs with Kuroo, Akaashi, Hajime, Suga, and Kenma where the reader (she) is a spy and so are they but the reader is tasked to kill them yet they have feelings for the reader? can it be angst to fluff? �� Thank youu have a nice dayy! ❤️

✿.｡.:*☆.:*:.☆*.:｡.✿.｡.:*☆.:*:.☆*.:｡.✿.

☆*.:｡.✿ 𝕡𝕒𝕚𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘: Tetsurō Kuroo x Fem!Reader; Keiji Akaashi x Fem!Reader; Hajime Iwaizumi x Fem!Reader; Kōshi Sugawara x Fem!Reader; Kenma Kozume x Fem!Reader

☆*.:｡.✿ 𝕨𝕒𝕣𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤: swearing, mention of murder, mention of blood

☆*.:｡.✿ 𝕒/𝕟: This is the shit I wanted to get into my inbox after opening my requests again 🥴✌🏻

Thank you bub for sending this request in, I hope you have a great day too! ❤

These are not really good but yeah----

☆*.:｡.✿ 𝕞𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕝𝕚𝕤𝕥

☆*.:｡.✿ Headcanons:

Kuroo, Akaashi, Iwaizumi, Sugawara, and Kozume spying on the Fem!Reader and needing to kill her, but they catch feelings for her:

KUROO:

Ok ok I am so excited to do that omg 😭

You two are spy’s, and he got the task to kill you, while you got the task to find out what they had planned (yk his company n shit)

You two meet at a café, everything is chill n shit, you get to know each other and like,,, you two are actually interesting?

Like, you two did not know that you two were acting at first, but slowly you warm up to each other,

But damn, Kuroo has to kill you ://

He fell for you, you even exchanged numbers, and you both were totally whipped for each other, that the act soon dropped and you two just felt comfortable around each other

But one day, Kuroo was tasked to kill you, well, he was already tasked before to kill you but today was the day he had to do it

So inviting you over to his House seemed like the best thing he could do, maybe you would have at least sweet memories, maybe you would have at least good memories before you would die.

He couldn’t even manage to think about killing you, his heart already felt heavy every time he looked at you

Every time he looked at you he had to fight his tears back

He had to kill his beloved Y/N

After you would arrive at his house, he would be already in tears and looked at you in pity

And you were to confused like????

“Kuroo are you-”

“Y/N, I am so sorry” he can’t bring it over his heart to kill you

He just started rambling about what happened and you are like

“Woah slow down juicy boy”

“Eye--- what”

“You literally gotta slow down boi”

He just nods and looks at you with googly eyes

“We can figure out how to not make you kill me… besides, I also had to spy on you”

THE SMIRK, THE GOD DAMN SMIRK

“Nevermind please just kill me”

“I didN’T EVEN TALK???”

N e way, you two figured that it would be smart to clear up both companies about what happened and in the end they were just “ogge” so you could live together happily

Btw while clearing it up hE JUST STRAIGHT UP CONFESSED HUASDFND

“I really like her and I would feel awful to kill her”

OMG HE CONFESSED IN FRONT OF ALMOST THE WHOLE COMPANY INCLUDING YOU???

So, after you finally got out you were like “I like you too” and he was so shooked, like, he didn’t think you would like him after that all but still, he was glad to hear those words

That’s how you got a couple <3

Also, he teased you sm after you finally got a couple about how stupid you were to not figure out his task hsodfsd

AKAASHI:

He probably is a sly and smart mf so he just somehow managed to get something to slip out of your hands without you noticing? And then he picked it up saying “sorry ma'am, that’s yours”

That’s how you met

He barely acted, just made sure that you did not get too close, but soon, soon enough he saw himself getting closer to you without noticing it

So in the next days, he caught himself staring at you more and then he went like oh fuck I am in love with her ://

But I have to kill her----

He is really conflicted what to do and thinks about everything very good, but he didn’t let you get to know any of his worries, in any way

Let’s be honest, Akaashi would handle this situation better than Kuroo, idk why I just have this strong feeling because Akaashi seems to be more organized and more responsible than Kuroo is, even if it’s just a little bit, in such a situation it is very much

though, most of the time, he would mostly think about how you feel and now how he feels

So after inviting you to a café, to start off with something very chilly and also calming, he starts to explain you the situation

And even a few tear drops left his eyes, but damn, he fought back most of the tears so he only cried a little.

He didn’t want to seem weak in front of you?? Yk

He said that he got the idea of not killing you so smart omg and instead would talk it out with you

Like he starts off with explaining the things he feels to you, how much he likes you and doesn’t want to loose you

But soon he gets lost in his own rambling that he did not notice you crying until you would sob

Like you were in tears of his so sweet speech and he would just beam you a smile, take your hand and tell you that everything will be fine <3

“Listen, I will make sure we both are happy, just please trust me, I know that you might not trust me much after that, but-”

“No no its okay Akaashi, I will trust you” You reassured him with a smile and he just nodded with a smile “I won’t disappoint you, princess” eye---- 🥺🥺 I love him pls

In the end he really somehow managed to somehow not have to kill you, and in the end, you even were allowed to date <3 But your boss was of course a little mad at you, and so was his, but thanks to Akaashi they somehow got at least friends

IWAIZUMI:

Oikawa had literally helped him to meet you

Like, no, he planned it, so it was not a coincidence that you met, but Oikawa helped him to make it look like coincidence

But you also kinda planned on making it look like that, since you figured out that he would go to this place too

Oikawa literally kinda made you dump against Iwaizumi and you apologized but you started to conversation

And things went so well from there on

You figured that Iwaizumi is actually really funny and nice, and he figured that you are actually really nice and caring, unlike his company described

He felt much faster than he thought he would, like one blink and he was already in love with you

And not even faster than he thought, but also harder than he thought. He kept on thinking about you day and night

But probably because he had to kill you, and not because he loved you, at least that’s what he kept telling himself

And he didn’t want to kill someone so nice and sweet like you, so he kept thinking about a way how to tell you, or just do the task, he really couldn’t think normally about it with his mind being messed up

So one night he called you suddenly, asking if you wanna go into the park with him and have a walk

Of course, you agreed

He really thought that if he would kill you now he would regret it less but after seeing you he knew that he would regret it even more

He broke down in front of you, not in tears but in regret “I am so sorry so so sorry really I apologize I am sorry” he kept on mumbling those words and after he knife felt beside him you immediately figured

But how could you be mad? He literally just exposed himself so you reassured him that it was okay

“Iwaizumi, it’s okay, I also had to spy on you, please don’t be sorry, we can find a way out, a way how we both are happy” you kept on telling him while patting his back

He is baby

And you two soon found a way how to convince your bosses to not do that all anymore

Like you said that you exposed accidentally yourselves and that you two seem to have no bad intention so you lied to your boss a little but he accepted it

In the end, Iwaizumi was glad that he had the knife with him because that way he had to tell you nothing about it

He also confessed after that and told you that he really didn’t want to do that n so on

Even after years, he would apologize for you to it, but slowly the regretting feeling was fading and he started to forgive himself as well

SUGAWARA:

This baby probably did not plan on killing you even though he didn’t know you

But he agreed to do it somehow :/

He met you on the train and offered you his seat since no seats were free

You, of course, thanked him and recognized him then,,, it was Sugawara

So you started to talk to him “Sir, may I ask for your name?”

He was so sweet, you literally had no idea why you had to spy on him or how comes that your company hated him

But he is a little stupid and couldn’t hide the fact that he had to kill you

You were mad about the fact, but honestly, somehow you also couldn’t be mad because you were literally in love with him already

And he was too,,, he really liked you and would love to keep talking to you, like forever but fate was so nice and gave him the task to kill you

So he planned everything so well out, while literally crying the whole night

Poor baby had to act like everything was fine after he called you and asked if you wanted to go on a walk in the forest

And you already knew what he planned

But you couldn’t say no you wanted to ask him so many things, tell him so many things which you never ended up asking or telling him because your mind just went blank and you only had this one question on your tongue then,,,

After arriving there he was already there, and for a moment you could see the sadness and regret in his eyes.

So you just brought it up yourself “You are here to kill me, right?”

He was so taken back, but nodded only a little “I am really sorry but-”

“We can somehow stop this all” you told him with a small frown “We both don’t want this, we can just not do it” you told him and damn you were right

So you two made a plan and at the end of the day he just confessed “I really like you, and you may not like me back but-” “I like you too” OMGAO SFHD RIP SUGAWARA HE DIED ON SPOT

The plan you made was simple, just rebelling against your two companies until you would get kicked out and you two found then a job, even bought an apartment since it was much cheaper to share than living alone

After that, he was 10 times sweeter to you and kept on making jokes about how stupid he was and couldn’t cover the fact up that he had to kill you jsdfsd

KOZUME:

He is so lazy holy shit---

N e way

He is so lazy, instead of trying to meet you he just found your all your social media, first started following you, then liking a few pictures and then texted you, just so it wouldn’t be weird

He even made sure to ask you things he knew about, to make it less suspicious about the whole spy thing

Honestly? He had no idea why he was tasked to kill a girl, but at the same time, he got money for that, so he didn’t question it farther

But after a few texts and finally a meetup, he figured that you were actually really chill, and nice, also not very annoying like the others had been

So he had found liking in you, also in your gaming and the way you were talking

Something was very appealing about you

He soon started to drop the act, because he thought that it was not very necessary anyway, but the day he had to kill you was coming closer

But he was like ‘screw it’ and literally told you the whole thing his boss told him after you came over to his house again

He really trusted you much already, and so he just told you the whole plan his boss had planned for him as his task

And after you told him that you had a similar task, just without the killing part, he was kind of relieved but also shooked as well

Relieved because you two had no more secrets and shocked because he never figured it out, even though he was so smart?

“Oh? I really didn’t know that you are also a spy” He mumbled while looking at his game “Well I didn’t know it either that you were one. We probably were tasked to spy on each other because of that?” He only shrugged and nodded then “Yeah might be” honestly, he was pretty sure that it was because of that and luckily this plan would work even better with this information

He also noticed that he liked you after that, he never figured out because you both were blinded by love :(

Kenma also told you what he had planned to do to not have to kill you

After that you two just played video games yea;;;

N e way

After you did his plan on how to convince your bosses to make you leave the company without getting into trouble it actually worked?

And after you two were telling it each other it somehow slipped you out that you liked him

But thank god he liked you too, and so you two started to date and always play video games together <3

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treatbuckywkisses · 3 years ago

Text

SHUTUP SHUTUP SHUT UP THIS IS SUCH A DREAM OHMYGOD HELP <3

So with one last, weak smile, you thanked Seamus and headed out the door onto the cobblestone sidewalk, face pointing up to the sky as the light rain gently kissed your skin. You took a few deep breaths, then made your way to your car. PLEASE- talking about the accent in the beginning i am DEAD and I agree one million percent😭😭

also holding up the line pls I hate that for her 😔

Rolling your eyes, you rested your head on the steering wheel. Quentin Beck was Tony’s former PA, but recently got promoted to his Brand Manager, which shocked you because ever since you started working for the international bestselling author Tony Stark, the guy had been nothing but rude to you. That was his trick, though. As soon as Tony or anyone else important was in the room it was all charm and smiles. “Can I talk to Tony, please?” you asked. I vote that we kill quentin <3

Your stomach sank. Of course that’s why he wanted the phone so bad. Not for work, but so he could talk to his freaking wife and daughter. “No no, let me just give you my phone so you can talk to them. I feel awful.” my stomach also sank<3 we like Tony here though he seems nice

Besides, you had thought this task would only take 20 minutes tops, and then you’d be on your way to having a protagonist, P.S. I Love You moment with Gerard Butler. GERARD BUTLER WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO YES MA'AM I'M THERE <3

“Are…you…fucking….KIDDING ME,” you wailed, slamming your palms on the steering wheel between each word. You checked the clock, which showed that you had about an hour before you had to pick up Tony for the event, and Tony was about 40 minutes away. stop Ohno I can't be here

“I’m sorry,” you said, voice raising a few octaves as you fought back tears, word vomiting to this kind Irish lady who had no idea who you were, “It’s just…I’m supposed to pick up my boss in an hour and I already couldn’t get him a new phone and the asshole I work with is going to probably get me fired if I can’t get there in time and I just-” celebrities, they're just like us😌 the word vomit please i feel for her GIVE MY GIRL A BREAK <3

“Can ye put the car in neutral?” Bucky finally said in a low, grizzly voice. You had yet to hear the accent from such a deep baritone and it caused you to have to take a beat and swallow as you gathered your composure. can ye fuck me 🤭

how dare you. actually how dare you. you are sick and twisted collie you know exactly what for. how DARE you do this to me. you just describe the love of my life like that ????shutup??? im—— extremely unwell......................

Your words died in your throat, mouth hanging agape as you watched Bucky positioned himself at the front of the car, squat down, clench his jaw once more, and lift it. stop im ***

With you still inside. so you're just sharing porn now is what I'm seeing 👀 I am ........... ... .......

You sat there for a few seconds, gaping at him as he made eye contact with you. As soon as he saw your awestruck expression, the corner of his mouth twitched up and he let out a soft chuckle. CHEEKY CHEEKY I LOVE IT I LOVE IT I LOVE IT UAKDGSIMSGSKSHGD GOD

There is no fucking way this guy is flirting with me right now. But if - by some glorious chance - he is let’s do this. me next please I beg its my turn :( mir has firefighter bucky so I want this one okay please pretty please let me have this one :(

“So,” he said, clearing his throat, “And what do they call the soon-to-be mother of mah namesake?” I'm literally going to swallow him whole I can't even bite him I just have to consume him entirely what have you done

That was the moment you decided you never wanted to hear your name unless it was spoken with a husky Irish accent. Bucky’s husky Irish accent, really. I literally cannot what the fuck

He shrugged. “Guess you’re gonna have to find out, love.” LOVE I SWOON WOWOWOWOWOWOOWW

But then you saw the redness rise up his neck and into his cheeks, and you realized that the giant, gorgeous Irishman was blushing. so you are aiming to kill, nice to know.

“Are you kidding? If you say my name or call me love one more time I’m pretty sure my heart is just going to give out.” it actually be like that <3 she said what we are all thinking

Bucky pulled up to the entrance of the hotel, and you jumped out to go grab Tony. Thankfully, Quentin wasn’t able to go to the event because he was handling preparations for the fundraiser dinner tomorrow night, so you didn’t need to deal with his dramatic ass for the rest of the night. still think we should kill him

The hotel was about 15 minutes away from the venue, and Tony spent the entirety of the trip chatting with Bucky. He asked about his job, his family, this awesome truck he was driving, and, of course, if he had ever heard of Tony’s books. everyone is bonding im getting nervous

Once you got to the venue, Bucky got out to help you with the work bag and escorted you inside. escort me into his bed next pls

You felt your pulse quicken as Bucky’s pupils began to dilate, and you realized that the distance between you was beginning to close in. And then his eyes flashed down to your lips…He shrugged, giving you a side smile. “What can I say, love? I hate seeing a pretty lass cry. Gotta do whatever it takes to see her smilin’ as much as possible.” IM ACTUALLY GOING TO THROW UP HELLO????

Bucky let out a soft oof as you hurled your body into his, wrapping your arms around his neck. He only froze for a few seconds before wrapping his arms around your waist, pulling you closely to him. God just get together already omg🙄

And then his phone started ringing, causing the two of you to jump back in surprise. NO PLEASE AVSKLSOSMSBKSBS I AM LAUGHING

Then, for the second time today, Bucky blushed, and he scratched the back of his neck. “Well, actually. I was wonderin’ if ye might be willin’ to make it up to me by, erm….goin’ out with me tonight?” shut the fuck UP !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! yes immediately wdym take me away Irish man please

For the rest of the event, you both stood side by side against the back wall, your cheek leaning against his arm. i cry hello what

so part 1 and i am in fact already dead-- you got me i literally have no words this is incredible col what the fuck is wrong with you (affectionate)

I LOVE how you write bucky— specifically this bucky PLEASE I already know it and I want him immediately please I am begging please

no i didn't know i needed this and it's going to haunt me for the rest of my miserable little life wow it's already being glued into my fucking peanut brain

if you did this to me on part 1 i absolutely cannot wait for the rest ohmygod 😭

Sweeter Than Honey • 1

Pairing: Mechanic!Bucky x Fem!Personal Assistant!Reader

WC: 6.4k

Summary: It all started with a failed attempt to buy your boss a new phone, and then suddenly you're in the middle of nowhere crying your eyes out in front of a handsome mechanic who would do just about anything to make you smile again...

Note: This scene was loosely based on a very real moment from a few months ago when my boss asked me to buy him a new phone and Best Buy said no <3 And then I said okay what about this but in Ireland lol. No warnings for this one. Enjoy!

“I’m sorry,” you said, pinching the bridge of your nose as your brain tried to form one coherent thought through the force of stress radiating through your body. “I can’t just, like, buy a phone from you guys?”

The customer service rep, Seamus, shook his head. “Sorry darlin’,” enunciating his r’s so harshly with his thick, Irish brogue in a way you would have found charming had he not been making your day especially difficult. “We can’t set up international lines on the fly like that, especially for business accounts. Takes a wee bit of time to contact the right prodivers. We can get things started and have it for ye in the next five business days.”

You nodded, understanding and yet totally not understanding what the kind man was saying. After waiting for almost an hour just to have a fruitless conversation with him for 30 minutes to try to get sorted, you knew it was time to give in and call it quits. He had already put in a bunch of effort and you couldn’t let the line behind you build up any further in fear of them acting on their very apparent frustration.

The original plan for today was to spend your afternoon off exploring Dublin on your own before the book event that evening. You were going to go to the different shops, find the rowdiest pub and treat yourself to some stupidly expensive whiskey, do all the fun touristy things to celebrate your first visit to the place you had always dreamed of traveling to.

And then your boss's phone shattered into a million pieces as it cascaded down the Cliffs of Moher, and you were back on the clock before the destroyed device had even made its way into the Atlantic.

Tony had of course offered to go buy the phone himself, seeing that he was the one who had tried to hold it at a weird angle to try to get ‘the best shot possible,’ but you insisted you go. You were his personal assistant, after all, and it had only been about a month since you took the job, and since you were on an all-expenses paid trip to Ireland thanks to your new boss, you wanted to work your ass off to make sure he didn’t regret hiring you.

Besides, you had thought this task would only take 20 minutes tops, and then you’d be on your way to having a protagonist, P.S. I Love You moment with Gerard Butler.

But here you were, already failing your new boss with what theoretically should have been an easy task.

Once in the car, you took a deep breath, holding your phone to your ear as it rang.

“What’s taking you so long?” Quentin’s voice aggressively whispered into your ear.

You heard a loud, dramatic sigh, then a few sounds of shuffling before the familiar, ridiculously charismatic voice came through.

“Hey, Y/n,” Tony said in his bright, careless way, “Any luck?”

You felt tears prick your eyes in disappointment. Tony was such a nice person, and you hated that you had messed this up for him. “Sorry boss, apparently international phone purchases are a lot more complicated than we thought.”

“Damn,” he breathed out, but his voice remained the same. “No worries, it’s just another week. Pepper and Morgan will be fine.”

“Don’t feel bad, Y/n. I’m the one who dropped it off the damn cliff while taking photos. Had you slapped it out of my hands, that would have been another story.”

You laughed softly. “Still, I’ll head back now so you can call them once Morgan gets back from school. And you can use it after dinner. We’ll make it work.”

“That’s very thoughtful of you, but I promise I won’t need my phone that much. I’m sure you and Beck can alternate nights so I can at least call them before bed. That’s all I’ll need to get through the rest of the tour.”

You grimaced, picturing Quentin’s classic scowl perfectly.

“I promise it’s fine, Y/n. This is just the universe’s way of telling me I should have studied tech instead of becoming a writer. Just enjoy the rest of your afternoon and I’ll see you later for the event, okay? You’re in Ireland. As your boss I order you to have some fun.”

You breathed out a small laugh. “Alright, boss man. If you insist.”

“I do. See you in a bit.”

“See you in a bit!” you said, then hung up the phone.

Okay, that could have gone way worse, you thought. Maybe I’m not a total screw up.

All you had to do was get Tony to the event and make sure that nothing else went wrong.

And until then….

You checked the time on your phone and smiled. Though you didn’t have enough time to have a true protagonist-adventure, you could take a slightly longer detour to get back to the hotel and still get your P.S. I Love You moment.

With that, you opened your GPS and turned on the ignition, determined to salvage this day.

The Wicklow Mountains were even more glorious than you could have ever imagined; its vast, green landscape peppered with gorgeous wildflowers. It was still cloudy with a tiny bit of rainfall, but in the far off distance the sunshine peaked through, illuminating pieces of the hillside like a beacon. You blasted your favorite Irish Folk instrumental music with your hand out the window, letting the rain dance along your skin.

You didn’t know if you wanted to laugh or cry from this beautiful moment. It ended up doing a bit of both. As you sat on a part of the stone wall lined along the road for a quick stop to soak in the views, taking photos of the stunning scenery, tears welled in your eyes as a smile threatened to split your face in two.

It was perfect.

Until…..the pothole came out of nowhere.

Well, technically it didn’t come out of nowhere. That crater looked as if it had taken up permanent residency there for years, almost perfectly centered in the middle of the narrow road. There were crevices within its crevices. A seemingly endless pit that laughed at you as you noticed it too late, and you tried to slow down and turn away. This had, apparently, been the worst thing to do because as your right wheel went into it at too slow a pace and turned too much to the side, you managed to wedge it snuggly within the pothole.

And then….the car slammed to a stop.

Heart pounding from the sudden adrenaline rush, you sat there for a few seconds replaying what just occurred in your head.

Then, looking up to the hood of the car in a silent prayer before looking back to the road ahead, you pressed on the gas pedal.

The engine revved, trying its hardest to go foreward, but you weren’t moving.

You were stuck.

Tears burned your eyes as you took a few deep breaths, willing yourself to get your shit together. This was your job; you had to be the problem solver. You had to find a way to get Tony to the event.

Or else you might not have a job by the end of the day…especially if Quentin had anything to say about it.

Scrunching your face in frustration at the image of your coworker's smug expression as he watched you fail for the second time today, you pulled out your phone and tried to google a nearby garage.

No internet connection.

You bit your bottom lip, fighting back a scream when you looked out at the road ahead. There was a sign about 15 feet away that read:

Stuck in BHOD?

Confusion made you furrow your brows until you noticed the slightly small text below:

Car problems? With a phone number listed.

You jumped into action, dialing the number and muttering, “Pleaseee come on come on come on…”

“Wilson’s, how can I help ye?” a woman asked on the other line and you let out a sigh of relief.

“Hi,” you said, “I’m…I’m hoping I can get some help? I’m at the Wicklow-”

“Did the Black Hole of Death get ye?” the woman cut you off.

Ah….BHOD: Black Hole of Death. Funny, you thought, not laughing.

“Yeah,” you muttered, embarrassed.

“That thing is a beast. Hold on. I think I can get a car to ye in ‘bout an hour..”

��Calm down, darlin’,” the woman said, her voice soft and soothing. Then, she let out a long breath. “Let me give my brother a call. He should be finished up with a job nearby…”

“Oh my God, thank you. Thank you thank you thank you,” you replied, wishing this lady was in front of you so you could give her the biggest hug.

She chuckled. “Can’t let yer asshole coworker win, can we?”

You laughed, shaking your head. “Hell no.”

“That’s what I like to hear. Alright, keep a lookout for a blue truck. And don’t mind Bucky. He does know how to talk, he’s just weird with new folk.”

You narrowed your eyes but nodded. “Gotcha, I think.”

After you hung up, you decided to step outside and at least enjoy some more of the fresh air. The rain had stopped, leaving behind your favorite smell. It always amazed you how a bit of rainfall could heighten the scent of nature, and standing here surrounded by green fields in Ireland….it made it that much more amazing.

So amazing, that you were able to forget all of your stresses for a few moments, and just be.

Now all I need is for a gorgeous Irishman to sweep me off my fee-

The distant sound of an engine pulled you from your daydreams as you looked over to your right.

It had only been five minutes since you got off the phone with the woman at Wilson’s, and already here was the blue truck to come to your rescue.

You were going to have to call her back and get her name so you could name your first child after her.

The person in the car - Bucky, you recalled her saying - had on a black baseball cap, obscuring his face from you as the car pulled to a stop.

You stood up from leaning against the car to prepare to greet your rescuer, but as soon as he stepped onto the pavement, your body seemed to have lost any sense of balance and you found yourself leaning back against it for support.

He was the most gorgeous man you had ever seen.

Though his body was covered by a red henley and brown leather jacket, you could tell by his frame that underneath all of that material was a strong, muscular body. A black hat covered the brown wavy hair that rested right at his shoulders.

The worst part about this ridiculously good-looking giant man was his jaw. You knew in an instant that it was one of those sharp jaws that Hollywood searched high and low for to get those swoon-worthy profile shots of a kissing scene, covered in a thin layer of stubble that you found yourself wishing you could scrape your fingers over.

And he was so tall. The closer he got the more he towered over you. He gave you a quick up and down, that glorious jaw clenching almost imperceptibly, then moved his attention to the rental car.

You had expected him to say something when he approached, but even when he was only feet away from you, he remained silent. Apparently his sister wasn’t kidding…

The silence made you so uncomfortable that you decided to fill it.

“Hi,” you started in a light, drawn out tone, before immediately shifting to rambling, “You must be from Wilson’s. Gosh, that was fast. I just got off the phone with your sister and she said you’d be able to help. Thank you so much for coming out here so quickly. I have to go pick up my boss before he’s late for an event-”

You nodded, opening the door and sliding into the driver’s seat as you followed his request, continuing your nervous rambling, “I guess it was dumb of me to come all the way out here, but I didn’t think I would get stuck in a massive pothole-”

Your words died in your throat, mouth hanging agape as you watched Bucky positioned himself at the front of the car, squat down, clench his jaw once more, and lift it.

With you still inside.

You let out a soft oh as he pushed the car back and out of the hole, standing up straight and wiping his hands in front of him as if nothing out of the ordinary just happened.

As if he hadn’t just lifted a car without breaking a sweat.

You sat there for a few seconds, gaping at him as he made eye contact with you. As soon as he saw your awestruck expression, the corner of his mouth twitched up and he let out a soft chuckle.

And then your insides turned to mush as the beautiful man became infinitely more beautiful.

Finally, you cleared your throat and got back out of the car, feeling both elated by the fact that you weren’t going to be late to grab Tony and from being rescued by the literal man of your dreams whom you would probably never see again.

Of course, had this been P.S. I Love You, you’d both instantly fall madly in love and kiss at the bridge and he’d move back to America with you and you’d both live happily ever after until he got sick and-

Yeah, maybe it was best that you just left it here.

“Thank you,” you said breathlessly, eyes locked on his. They were a bright, cerulean blue; a shade you were certain you had never seen before. “This was a huge help. I cannot express how grateful I am.” You checked your phone and once you saw the time your eyes widened. “Shit, I really need to get going… Um, thanks again. I’ll call your sister and have her bill me if that’s okay?”

As soon as you were about to turn to get back in the car, Bucky’s glorious jaw clenched again and he shook his head, causing you to stop in your tracks.

“That’s not gonna happen,” he said.

Your eyes narrowed, and you realized that his lack of talking was getting kind of annoying. “I’m not going to call your sister for the bill or…” or are you about to kidnap and murder me?

He shook his head again, then cocked it over to the right side of the car. “Tire’s flat. We gotta tow it back to the shop.”

You felt all of the blood drain from your body as you walked over to the tire.

Which didn’t have a single ounce of air in it.

Fuck.

And then, all of the composure you had been desperately holding onto crumbled as your bottom lip began to tremble.

“Great,” you said, tears welling in your eyes. Your body sagged against the hood of the car. “So I officially, totally fucked up then,” your voice broke and you breathed out a wet sob. “Literally my first big work gig and I’m going to get fired after only a month because Quentin will finally have proof that I can’t do anything right-”

That was when your weeping totally overcame you, and speaking was no longer something you were capable of.

It was almost poetic, sitting here in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by the most beautiful scenery you had ever laid eyes on standing next to an even more beautiful man while you cried into your hands.

What wasn’t poetic was the snot that was starting to build up your nose and threatening to leak out.

You quickly moved a hand to wipe it away, horrified by the scene you were displaying in front of an innocent bystander. But you were completely overcome, powerless to your emotional breakdown.

Suddenly, you felt something touch your hand.

A thin, soft, paperlike material.

A tissue.

You looked up at Bucky, his hand extended out to you with the offering, a small sympathetic smile on his face.

Grabbing the tissue and wiping your nose, you grimaced as you regained composure. “Sorry,” you muttered out, “I’m sure witnessing a crazed pathetic woman having a breakdown wasn’t on your bingo card for today.”

He shrugged. “Not a huge deal. Besides, I’ve witnessed way worse from Becs.”

Your brows knit together questioningly. “Becs?”

“Becca, my sister.”

You nodded, brows relaxing. “Looks like I’m naming my first child Becca.” Bucky’s head cocked to the side questioningly and you continued, “I decided that’s the debt I must pay for her doing me such a solid.”

The corner of his mouth twitched again as he fought back a smile. There was a mischievous light in his eyes, and he looked like he was debating whether he wanted to say something else or go back to being his mysterious, quiet self. He thankfully chose the former and responded, “But I’m the one who actually came to yer rescue. Shouldn’t ye name your kid after me?”

There is no fucking way this guy is flirting with me right now. But if - by some glorious chance - he is let’s do this.

You feigned innocence and shrugged. “I could, but the problem with that is I don’t actually know your name.” A lie, but he didn’t need to know that.

Then the universe decided to finally gift you something good today as Bucky’s mouth pulled back into a full-on grin, and it felt like you were looking at the sun.

He extended his hand out for you to shake. “James.”

You frowned as you shook his hand, speaking before you could control yourself, “I thought your name was Bucky.”

All he did was chuckle. “Thought ye didn’t know my name.”

Your right eye twitched in horror and he bit his bottom lip, smile still plastered to his face.

“Bucky is my nickname,” he continued. “Friends, family, and those who have gone head to head with the Black Hole of Death and lived to tell the tale can call me Bucky.”

Giggling, you rolled your eyes, taking mental note of the way Bucky’s face brightened at the sound of your laugh. “Well then, nice to meet you, Bucky.”

You both realized that you were still holding hands, and you thought that you felt him squeeze yours the tiniest bit before letting go.

“So,” he said, clearing his throat, “And what do they call the soon-to-be mother of mah namesake?”

Damn, he’s smooth, you thought as heat rose to your face. “I’m Y/n.”

He nodded, still smiling. “Y/n.”

That was the moment you decided you never wanted to hear your name unless it was spoken with a husky Irish accent. Bucky’s husky Irish accent, really.

Unfortunately, the romcom moment you were experiencing was ruined as you remembered the reason that the beautiful Irishman was here, and you let out a long sigh as you grappled with the inevitable.

“Well, Bucky, I guess I gotta go meet my fate. Any chance your shop is hiring? I have very little skill with cars, but I make killer itineraries,” you said with a half-hearted laugh.

Bucky puckered his lips, then switched his gaze between you and the rental. When he locked his eyes on you once more, they narrowed. “How much time till ye have to pick up yer boss for the event?”

You checked your phone. “Forty minutes. There’s no way-”

“Grab yer stuff,” Bucky said, pulling out his own phone.

“What do you-”

“I can get ye there in thirty.” He tapped a few buttons then held the device to his ear. “We can grab yer boss, take him to the event-”

“But what about the car?”

“I’ll take care of it. We gotta move though or else I won’t be able to stop him from sacking ye.”

He walked back toward the truck and you stood there for a second, shaking your head. “Bucky!” you whined out.

“Y/n!” he whined back before muttering into his phone, and you found yourself laughing incredulously as you moved to the trunk to grab your ‘Oh Shit Kit’ work duffel and purse.

“Listen Stevie,” you overheard Bucky grumble, “Please just do me this solid and I’ll buy ye all the pints in the world tonight. Right…thanks, ye daft brute.” He hung up, opening the door to the passenger side and turning to you. As you approached, he reached out to grab your things to load them into the back seat.

“Dare I ask again about the car?” you asked skeptically.

He wiggled his eyebrows once. “It’s taken care of. All I need are the car keys and we’ll be good to go.”

You narrowed your eyes at him, still smiling. “This isn’t actually some plan for you to kidnap and murder me is it?”

He shrugged. “Guess you’re gonna have to find out, love.”

Love.

It was then that you knew that - even though it seemed like your job was no longer in jeopardy - you were totally fucked.

All you could do was shake your head, eyes glued to those beautiful blues before you as you handed Bucky the keys.

He gave you a small wink as he closed the door for you, then walked over to the Stuck in BHOD? sign and hung them against the other side.

Once Bucky was in the car, you told him the name of the hotel you were staying at and the two of you hit the road.

You only lasted about a minute before the silence made you uncomfortable again and you looked over at Bucky and asked, “So…how long has the Black Hole of De-”

“Ye can call it BHOD-” Bucky pronounced it like bod, smirking at you, “Makes it easier.”

You nodded. “Okay, well, how long has BHOD been terrorizing the good people of Dublin?”

“Long as I can remember,” Bucky said and you scoffed.

“Why hasn’t anyone done anything about it?” you accused.

He rolled his eyes, glancing over at you for a moment before focusing back on the road. “Well isn’t that an idea,” he said sarcastically. “Listen, love, that beast cannot be tamed. We’ve tried many, many times. Each time we try to fill the hole, it comes back bigger and stronger than ever. Eventually we gave up trying to mess with the forces of nature and instead decided to spend the money on putting up the sign.”

Couldn’t argue with that.

The silence had returned, but before you had the chance to end it, Bucky beat you to the punch. “So, yer boss is…?”

“Tony Stark,” you answered. “He’s a children’s author.”

Bucky smiled to himself. “Oh, I know who Tony is. Sarah’s kids are obsessed.”

Ah, so he was with someone. You felt your stomach turn to knots as you asked, “Sarah?”

“In-law. Her brother is married to my sister,” he said.

The knots unraveled and you bit back a smile. “Are they going to the event tonight?”

He shook his head. “Nah. Sold out in seconds, apparently. The boys were gutted.”

“I’m sure I can get them in!” you said. “Tonight would be the only night I could, probably, since I’ll most likely be unemployed by tomorrow.”

Bucky furrowed his brows. “Why are ye still saying you’re going to get fired when I’m drivin’ ye to pick him up right now? Ye should be fine now.”

“Maybe, and I cannot begin to express how much I appreciate you doing this for me,” you instinctively reached out to rest a hand on his forearm. He flinched, bringing you back to your senses and you pulled it back immediately as if you had been burned. Well, in a way, you had.

But then you saw the redness rise up his neck and into his cheeks, and you realized that the giant, gorgeous Irishman was blushing.

It was a delightful sight.

“Anyways,” you continued, thumb rubbing over the palm that had just touched Bucky, “Hopefully I’m in the clear, but not likely. How am I supposed to explain his ride to the event being a pickup truck rather than the rental he’s been paying for these past few days? And then there was the whole phone shitshow-”

“What’s the phone shitshow?”

You groaned. “Tony dropped his phone off a cliff and I tried to get him a new one but because of international reasons and shit that a very nice tech person tried to explain but went right over my head, they couldn’t do it. And Tony seems like a really nice, super understanding guy, but I’m so new and have already shown I can’t handle the tasks I’ve been hired for and Quentin is definitely going to fight for me to get fired.”

“And who the fuck is this Quentin?” Bucky asked, annoyance in his voice.

You groaned louder. “He sucks. Ugh he sucks so much. He’s basically the PR/brand guy, so he’s really good at being two-faced and pleasant to the people that matter. Then he turns around and treats booksellers and me like shit. But Tony’s never seen it and Quentin has worked with him for years, so it’s my word against his.”

Bucky scrunched his face in disgust. “What a dick.” But when he said dick, it sounded like deck, which pulled you out of your grouchy mood and you giggled.

“Yes, a real deck,” you said.

Bucky scoffed. “I’m sorry, love, but are ye making fun of my accent while I’m going out of my way to save your arse?”

You kept laughing. “I know, I know, I’m sorry. I promise I think your accent is amazing.”

“Really now?” he said cheekily.

“Are you kidding? If you say my name or call me love one more time I’m pretty sure my heart is just going to give out.”

It was silent after that, and you were worried you crossed a line. But after a few seconds, Bucky responded.

“Whatever you say, Y/n.”

Your boss was a bit confused when you led him to the blue pickup truck and saw a giant man in a black baseball cap and a red henley in the driver’s seat waving to him with an awkward smile, but he got into the passenger’s seat nonetheless as you climbed into the back.

You noticed that Bucky had been on the phone with someone as you approached, quickly putting his cell away when he caught sight of you.

He kept his gaze on Bucky as he buckled his seatbelt and said, “Uh…Y/n, who is this?”

“Tony, this is Bucky. Bucky, this is Tony.”

Bucky nodded, holding out his hand. “Pleasure, sir.”

Tony shook it. “Likewise.” Then he turned around to face you. “It thought we were taking the rental?”

You opened your mouth, ready to tell him about the situation with the flat and bracing yourself for his reaction, but Bucky spoke before you had the chance.

“Turns out there was an electrical issue with the car. It broke down while Y/n was one her way and she called our shop. We offered to tow it and call her a cab but she was quite insistent that she needed to get ye to the event. She’s very persuasive, that one.” You stared at Bucky in the rearview mirror and he winked at you.

Tony nodded. “Alright then. Well, good job thinking on your feet, Y/n. I’ll be sure to call the rental company to make sure they cover the charge of the work seeing that it wasn’t our fault-”

“Already taken care of, sir,” Bucky responded. “We have this thing called BHOD Warranty that’ll cover everythin’.”

Tony gave you an impressed look then turned back around, murmuring to himself about never hearing about a BHOD Warranty and allowing you a moment to gape at Bucky’s reflection. He just shook his head.

“I have, actually. Got two nephews who are big fans.”

“Are they coming tonight?” Tony asked.

Bucky nodded. “Originally no because tickets sold out so fast. But Y/n said she’d be able to get them in.”

“Good,” Tony said. “If they’re willing, they’re welcome to hang out for a bit afterwards to chat and take some photos.”

Bucky beamed, a sense of boyish excitement painted across his features as he looked at Tony with a smile. “That would be absolutely grand, sir. Thank ye.”

Tony shook his head. “It’s the least I can do for your help today. I might even get to an event early for the first time in ages.” He turned over to you and wiggled his brows, and you felt a sense of ease wash over your whole body.

Maybe you’d still have a job tomorrow after all.

Once you got to the venue, Bucky got out to help you with the work bag and escorted you inside.

“Will you stay for the event?” you asked once you got to the green room, eyes wide and hopeful. Normally you would have cared way more about the desperation in your voice. But you knew that your time with Bucky was limited, and you didn’t seem to care all that much how obvious it was that you didn’t want him to leave.

And based on the look on his face, he felt the same way as he smiled. “What, and miss an opportunity to hear a bigshot author speak? Not a chance, love.”

You beamed, smiling to the point that you almost split your face in two. “Good.”

He smiled back, ocean blue eyes piercing yours. Tony was out in the hallway talking to the event coordinator, so it was just the two of you in the room. Not that you would have been able to notice anyone or anything else that existed in this moment aside from the man before you.

You felt your pulse quicken as Bucky’s pupils began to dilate, and you realized that the distance between you was beginning to close in. And then his eyes flashed down to your lips…

And then his phone started ringing, causing the two of you to jump back in surprise.

Bucky swallowed, eyes still on yours as he pulled out his phone. When he finally looked down to see who was calling, he groaned, pulling the phone to his ear.

“Stevie,” he said, annoyed, “Have I ever told ye your timin’s shite?”

“All the time,” you overheard the mysterious Stevie say on the other end. “Just letting yer ungrateful arse know I’ll be there in twenty.”

“Fine,” Bucky responded.

“You’re welcome, jerk.”

“Thanks, punk,” he said, hanging up the phone. “That was Steve. He’ll be here with the car soon.”

Your head hung back as you looked up at the ceiling, letting out a huge sigh of relief before looking back at him. “Thank fucking God. Thank you Bucky. You really didn’t have to do all of this.”

He shrugged, giving you a side smile. “What can I say, love? I hate seeing a pretty lass cry. Gotta do whatever it takes to see her smilin’ as much as possible.”

Just as you were about to respond to that stupidly romantic statement, Tony walked in and it was time to get the show on the road. Bucky excused himself, saying he was going to wait by the entrance for Sarah and the boys.

You spent the next half hour helping Tony get ready, touching base with the bookstore staff running the event, and making sure everything went according to plan. This was the part of the job you loved, the rush right before a big event where everything was chaotic and you were hyper-focused on smoothing any issues out.

Then, it was time for Tony to get on stage. Before he did, though, he turned to you with a small smile.

“I’m really glad you’re on this team, Y/n. Couldn’t have gotten a better hire.” He rested a hand on your shoulder and squeezed it, then turned around and walked out to greet the crowd, leaving you with a fresh sheen of tears in your eyes.

Once you were convinced that Tony was all settled and the event was in full swing, you moved from backstage to the very back of the venue hall, leaning against the wall as you watched your boss do his thing. He was so charismatic, and the audience couldn’t stop laughing as he spoke, yourself included.

A few minutes into his talk, you felt a large, muscular arm brush against yours and you turned to see Bucky standing next to you.

You smiled, cocking your head to the side questioningly and you whispered. “Are Sarah and the boys here?”

He nodded, leaning over to whisper into your ear, and the heat of his breath made you have to fight back a shiver. “Just got in and sat down.”

“Don’t you want to sit with them?” you asked, though you wished he would stay with you for the rest of forever.

“Had to get something to ye,” he said, and he leaned back, hand extended out to you.

He was holding out a small shrink wrapped box with the image of a phone on it.

You stared at it, eyes wide.

“Did I mention earlier that Sarah works in tech?” he asked.

You shook your head, eyes still glued to the phone.

“I guess her company keeps stock of American devices, because - shockingly enough - yer boss isn’t the only one to lose or break his phone while traveling abroad. It’s all legit, all he needs to do is log into his plan and everything should be set up in less than 20 minute-”

Bucky let out a soft oof as you hurled your body into his, wrapping your arms around his neck. He only froze for a few seconds before wrapping his arms around your waist, pulling you closely to him.

“Thank you,” you whispered into his shoulder.

He chuckled. “Anytime, love.” He pulled away to look at you. “Unfortunately, phones are expensive as shit so I can’t necessarily waive this charge like with the tire…”

“Absolutely,” you said. “I’ll give Sarah my number and I’ll cover that bill. Though that still doesn’t feel like I’m adequately making up for all of the miracles you’ve pulled off today.”

Your jaw dropped, and Bucky’s eyes widened in panic as he frantically whispered, “It’s not a big deal. Ye can say no. It’s just, I figured it’s yer first time in Dublin and my friends and I always go to the pub on weekends and I thought it might be fun for ye to get a real taste of Ireland-”

“Yes.”

His eyebrows rose. “Yes?”

You nodded, biting your bottom lip. “I’d love that, Buck.”

His chest rose and fell as he let out a sigh of relief. “Excellent,” he said, and then the two of you turned your smiling faces around to watch Tony speak.

For the rest of the event, you both stood side by side against the back wall, your cheek leaning against his arm.

After all the shit you had gone through today and all the stress that had previously consumed your body, you couldn’t help but feel grateful that you had accidently driven your car straight into a ditch.

Sure, you could have easily gotten fired, but even if you had, at least you got to meet Bucky.

Hillary Swank would be proud.

Chapter 2

#sweeter than honey #he is #and im gonna fucking drink him #let me have him #please

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clockwork-dinosaur · 7 years ago

Text

i wrote this almost two years ago now and cleaned it up last semester to turn in as an English project! i wanted to do something a little dystopian with a focus on family. i also wanted a nonbinary protagonist and an autistic character and main characters who aren’t white, and this is that! i could probably write this better now but overall i’m pretty okay with how it turned out

summary: young adult Yamni finally gets an apartment of their own; a new life for them and their younger brother. Unfortunately their past is not easily left behind and the stakes are high as they complete one final job for the criminal organization from which they escaped.

word count: ~8770

warnings: minor violence, misgendering

Yamni was used to silence in their apartment. It was often a comfortable silence, broken occasionally by the turning of a page or a cough, signs that told them that their younger brother was still awake and hadn't fallen asleep face first in his book again. Aariv wasn't one to break the silence with conversation, and nether were they.

That morning's silence wasn't comfortable. Aariv sat coldly at the dining table of the small, one-bedroom apartment they lived in, backpack at his feet and school uniform neatly pressed.

“Listen, if I had a choice, I'd send you back to Goodview, but we moved out of that school zone. I'm sure Washington is just as nice.” Yamni said softly, nibbling on the toast that both of them had every day for breakfast. Government rations didn't leave much room for variety.

Aariv shrugged miserably, breakfast untouched.

“And it's a first day for me too, remember? It's a day of firsts, we'll both get through it. When we get home tonight, we can talk about all the interesting stuff we see today, right?”

Another shrug. Yamni was used to Aariv not talking, but that morning it felt different. They decided to leave him alone, worried that they were coming across as overbearing.

“Love you, bro.” they said, standing and tossing the plastic dishes in the sink. They leaned down and hugged their brother, and he accepted the hug wordlessly, as he did most things.

“I need to go get dressed still, but I think school starts soon for you, right? Maybe you should get a move on. You'll be home before me, so I want you to do your homework as soon as you get home, alright?”

Aariv nodded, grabbed his backpack and headed slowly for the door.

“I was serious about the getting a move on part, dude.”

He sighed and walked normally. He opened the door and left the apartment, face set in an expression of wary annoyance.

Yamni sighed. Even after six years, they weren't used to playing the sole parent figure in Aariv's life. Their parents both ended up dead in a factory fire and left them with nothing. Thoughts of their parents left a bitter taste in Yamni's mouth, and they shook their head to clear it.

This morning was a fresh start. New school for Aariv. New job for Yamni. An apartment that wasn't overrun by rats and roaches. A chance to move forward, or at least give them a fighting chance to stay above-water. Yamni hoped that eventually they wouldn't rely on government assistance anymore, but that seemed unlikely.

They sighed as they pulled on the ugly jumpsuit that all factory workers were required to wear, stubbornly not thinking about the fact that it was nearly identical to the one their parents had zipped up into on that last day.

They picked up the folder on their nightstand that held their identification and everything they needed for the first day on the job. They nodded as they flipped through, making sure almost everything was filled out. The basics were all there, aside from the box labeled “gender” with two options- male and female. They left that one blank. Let their boss figure that one out.

They looked around the room one last time and nodded. Without a backwards glance, they left their apartment, locking the door behind them.

The gray factory loomed over the mag-lev train, windowless and more opposing as they got closer. Yamni felt a rare flutter of nervousness in their chest, but quickly shut it down. This was just another factory, just another job.

Unlike many of Yamni's previous jobs, this one was completely legal.

As the train whirred to a stop, Yamni straightened their back and stepped out with everyone else. They followed the crowd into the building, the scent of heated metal and gasoline quickly overwhelming them and making them nearly lightheaded. They coughed a few times.

Another worker, an older gentleman, glanced at them knowingly.

“Don't worry, ma'am. You get used to it pretty damn quick.”

Yamni nodded. “Thanks. I'm not a ma'am though.”

The man nodded slowly. “Sorry then.”

The rest of the workers were nearly silent as they took their places in the assembly line. Yamni walked through the rows of hulking machines and into the office.

“Hello, I'm Yamni Batra, this is my first day.” they said to the man behind the desk. He nodded once, typing their name into the terminal imbedded in the desk.

“Files?” he asked in a monotone. They passed them over. He didn't even glance at them before nodding.

“For now, you're on janitorial duty. That may change within the next few weeks, since this is your first day.”

Yamni nodded, already feeling boredom cloud their mind as he explained where the other cleaning staff could be found.

By the time the end of the workday rolled around, Yamni was more than happy to get back onto the crowded mag-lev train home and out of the loud, cramped factory. The jumpsuit felt too warm, and everyone bumping them made them want to scream. The hurried off the train and half-ran home through the dirty city streets. It was a cool evening, but the heat of the factory still seemed to press against their skin. They rolled their sleeves up, thinking longingly of the shower at home.

They went up the stairs to the small apartment, sighing as they got up. Yamni liked to think they had high endurance after all they've been through, but the day had taken a lot out of them and they were completely exhausted.

They turned their front door handle, bumping it a bit.

It didn't budge.

Confused, they unlocked the door, walking in to the dark apartment.

“Aariv?” they called quietly. With a pang of fear they checked the bedroom, hoping to see their younger brother in bed, his blanket pulled up to his short dark hair as it always was when he slept.

The bed was as neatly made as it was when he left for school.

Yamni's breath seemed to choke them as they looked in every corner of the tiny apartment.

“If this is some kind of joke Aariv, it isn't fucking funny!” they called, chest heaving. They scrambled for the house phone, dialing the number for Aariv's school with desperate fingers.

“Hello, Washington Middle School.” the bored voice on the other end droned.

“I'm looking for my brother, Aariv Batra. He's a student, in sixth grade.” Yamni said breathlessly, pacing.

“And you're his guardian?” the other person asked.

“Yes, Yamni Batra. Please, did he stay after school or something?”

“I can call his homeroom teacher and check for you, if you'd like?”

“Yes pl-” they started, before the on-hold tone began. They took the time to change out of the gray jumpsuit and into an old pair of jeans and a t-shirt, the phone still held to their ear. They pulled their hair back into a short ponytail. A few minutes later, the hold tone ended and the bored voice was back.

“He left with the rest of his class today. Is everything okay?”

Yamni didn't answer, bringing the call to an end with a shaking hand. Quickly, they ran out the front door, eyes wide.

Night had fallen completely, and the oppressive heat of the day had died down, the air almost freezing against their overheated skin as they traced the steps to their brother's bus stop. Yamni wasn't sure what that would accomplish, but just staying at home alone while Aariv was out there, lost or worse, was useless.

The streets were quiet, most people at home. With curfew only a few hours away, most stores were closed and nobody wanted to risk being out too late.

Their heartbeat nearly matched the speed of their footfalls on the pavement as they ran, breathing erratic from fear.

They reached his bus stop within a few minutes, looking around for anything; his backpack, him playing or waiting or lost, any sign that he was there.

The street was empty.

Yamni swallowed a scream, turning and walking back they way they came. They nearly ran up the steps to their apartment and stopped dead in front of the old, painted white door.

A familiar insignia was burned into it, crossed daggers above a rose.

They felt their heart stop. Shook their head, rubbed their eyes, anything to convince themself that they were only seeing things. Shaking fingers traced the brand, still warm beneath their fingers.

They knew where Yamni lived.

With trembling hands they opened the door, resisting the urge to scream in the empty apartment. They closed the door behind them and locked it, knowing that that action was futile. If someone really wanted to get in, one lock wouldn't stop them.

Yamni allowed themself ten minutes. They dropped to their knees on the floor, tears burning their way down their cheeks as they pressed their balled fists to their temples.

“Fuck, fuck!” they repeated in a whisper, angry and terrified.

They knew who had Aariv. Their former employers had found them.

Yamni knew that life wouldn't be easy for two orphans with nearly nothing to their name. The factory would only pay expenses for six months after the death of their parents, and after that Aariv and Yamni were on their own.

Yamni also knew that they would do anything to keep Aariv with them and out of a government orphanage, to be nothing more than a laborer for the rest of his life. After the factory stopped paying them and the bills came in, Yamni took Aariv and ran. They knew how reckless that was, but desperation made them stupid. After two months on the street, hiding from cops in back alleys and stealing old food from stores, Yamni was ready to do anything to find money for a place to stay, if only to keep Aariv safe.

Anything, including armed robbery and mugging.

That's when Daniel came along.

He looked like an easy mark. Blonde hair slicked back, suit expensive, face buried in his cell as he walked down the empty street at a leisurely pace.

Yamni, though thin, was very strong, and they didn't hesitate to pull the man aside into a back alley and press the blade of their knife to his throat.

“Your money, now!” they barked.

The man only smirked. “That your brother over there?” he asked, undisturbed by the six-inch blade that was only one muscle twitch away from severing his jugular as he tilted his jaw at Aariv, who stared out from behind a dumpster with wide, dark eyes.

“Don't you fucking look at him! Give me everything you got, now!” Yamni demanded again.

He smirked, then before Yamni could even follow his movements, he had both of their arms behind their back and their face pressed to the ground.

“Yamni!” Aariv cried, taking a step toward the two.

“Get back!” they demanded, writhing underneath the knee on their back.

“You're not scary, kid.” the man said, right in their ear. “But I can see you being quite formidable, given a bit of training. I have a business offer for you.”

Within a week, Yamni and Aariv found themselves in a compound of sorts. Though there were no official borders around the area, Yamni knew where they and their brother were supposed to be at all times. As generous as the man's offer was, he was not a good man, and they didn't want to risk crossing him.

Yamni found out exactly what kind of work offer Daniel had given them once they were instructed to put on a heavy winter coat in early fall.

“Isn't it a bit warm for this?” they asked him. He smirked.

“Well, we can't have you just carrying around a bag full of cocaine, now can we?” he laughed at Yamni's horrified expression.

“This jacket-?”

“Yes, it contains a few grams. It's a special kind of cloth, one that confuses drug sniffers. You could walk right by a police station and nobody'll bat an eye. I wouldn't recommend it though.”

“Why am I the one who has to wear it?”

“You're young and innocent-looking, kid. Nobody's going to stop you and search you for drugs. But you need to stop looking so scared or people're going to ask what's wrong. You and your brother want to stay here, right? Food and board and all that?”

Yamni nodded slowly, to Daniel's pleasure. “Then you'll do what I ask.”

That wasn't the last time they put on that jacket. After a few months, Daniel had them running more and more dangerous things, the bottom of the jacket slightly heavy under the weight of a firearm or illegal tech.

On one of Aariv's rare talkative nights, he asked them a million questions, most of which they refused to answer, the information too sensitive to be told. But Yamni knew exactly who and where much of the drug dealers in the city were. This wasn't information that a child needed, and knowledge that would get him hurt if he had it.

Yamni had idle thoughts of taking the goods for themself, selling it for a higher profit than Daniel was giving them. They knew they'd be dead within days of doing that, and Aariv as well.

So they suffered. Collected every cent that Daniel gave them. And years later, they had enough to run, to get their own apartment with their brother on the other side of town, and start their own life.

Yamni knew, deep down, that running would never have worked. Their idealistic thoughts were shattered by the silence of their apartment, the lack of her brother's warmth and presence making the cramped apartment seem huge and empty.

A few minutes passed before they wiped their tears away, taking a few deep breaths. They had nothing left to do except go back to Daniel and demand their brother back.

They shuddered as that man's face crossed their mind, a wave of revulsion tearing their stomach in two, but worry for Aariv overshadowed that.

The clock on the wall showed ten at night, an hour left until curfew. Taking the mag-lev wasn't an option, their recreational travel pass had expired years ago. With a sigh, they re-laced their work boots and headed back out the door.

Being a runner for Daniel and his crew had some benefits. Yamni knew how to get from one end of the city to the other, avoiding main traffic ways and hotspots of police activity, in under half an hour. Fear for their brother and anger at Daniel had them going faster than they had before, and before they could formulate a plan, they were in his territory. It was exactly how they remembered it, the buildings' windows dark as they walked through the empty street. They knew that they were being watched from the moment they'd stepped over the unspoken territory line. They were unsurprised when they found their path blocked by two men, faces unfriendly as they stared Yamni down. They walked up to the men confidently, jaw set and eyes hard.

“Take me to Daniel.” they demanded.

“You don't make the rules around here.” the man on the left growled.

Yamni raised an eyebrow. “Then I'll take myself to Daniel. Get out of my way.” they threatened.

“Come with us.” the man said.

“Only if we're going to Daniel.” they insisted.

“Listen here, you runaway little shit-” one man started, taking a step toward Yamni as he reached for the knife at his hip, before being interrupted by a deep voice from one of the buildings.

“That's enough, boys.” Daniel said, stepping out into the street. “I know why the little spitfire's here. Just a friendly chat, nothing more.” he said, tone friendly.

“Give me back my-” Yamni started, before Daniel raised his hand. Immediately they stopped, then scolded themselves for doing so.

“Follow me and all of your questions will be answered honestly.” he said, turning and going back into the building. Yamni followed with their jaw clenched and their fists balled.

“You try anything in there and I'll have you dead in a minute!” one of the burly men called after them. Yamni ignored him, slamming Daniel's door behind them.

“Why the hostility, my dear?” Daniel ashed innocently, hands folded behind his back as he made his way into his office.

“You know why I'm here, you fucking bastard. Give me Aariv.”

“Why all these demands? You know I'm treating him well.” Daniel said as he stood behind his desk. Yamni slammed their hands down in the desk, shaking from fury.

“That's not the point and you damn well know it.” they hissed. “Why would you even take him, you bastard? He's a child!”

Daniel grinned. “You're here, aren't you? What else would get you here so quickly?”

Yamni shuddered as they realized how easy it was to get them here, angry and with no plan. They had done exactly what he wanted them to- they had no choice but to play his game.

“What do you want from me, Daniel? I left, but you saw it coming. You didn't try and stop me. You know I’m not going to tell anyone shit because I don't fucking care and I don't want to be bothered. I'm not a loose end you need to tie up. You didn't need to drag Aariv into all of this. So why?” “Because I need you to do one last thing for me. You think you've paid off all of your debts, that you didn't owe me anything? No, my dear. You've still got quite a bit of payment left to go before I let you leave.”

“Just tell me what you want and give me back my brother.” Yamni said.

“You and your brother can leave, after you do this last thing. Consider it your final payment for the kindness I've shown you over the years.” Daniel said smugly.

“Do I have any choice?” Yamni asked.

“Ask Aariv.” Daniel replied flippantly. “Now, take a seat. There's quite a bit I need to explain, and we're actually on a bit of a schedule.”

Yamni sat in the chair across from him, their dark eyes narrowed as Daniel pulled out several sheets of paper.

“Now, my dear, I've known you for a while now. You're quite the actor. You've got a sort of... confidence about you. You seem to belong exactly where you're at. That's one of the things I've always liked about you.” Daniel started. Yamni eyed him warily. Daniel slid a photograph across the desk.

The woman in the photo stared the camera down almost like a challenge, her black hair was long and straight as it fell down the back of her neatly-pressed suit.

“She's cute. But she's got nothing to do with me.” Yamni tossed the photo back on the desk.

“That's where you're wrong, dear. See, maybe you don't see it but I certainly do, you look very similar to this woman.” Daniel said, holding the photograph up. Yamni looked over the woman again, more carefully,

“Maybe. My jaw line’s a bit stronger and her nose is more narrow, but I can almost see it. And of course, her hair is longer.” Yamni conceded.

“Yes, but with a bit of makeup and some temporary prosthetics, you'll be her twin.”

“Okay, hold on here.” Yamni said, holding up their hand. “Who is this woman? Why do I need to be her twin?”

“This is Anna Patel, the Indian ambassador.” Daniel said. “She was traveling through our city, staying in one of the nicest hotels here.”

Yamni's stomach dropped. “Was?”

“Well, now she's somewhat... held up. But we can't let her meeting with our president go unattended!” Daniel grinned.

“Are you... fuck, are you saying you want me to stand in for this woman?” Yamni asked breathlessly, heart hammering. “This foreign official? Who was meant to meet the president...?” They couldn't wrap their head around it.

Daniel nodded. “Yes.” he said simply.

“You're fucking insane. This isn't running drugs or other shit, Daniel. This is kidnapping and fucking treason. This isn't some petty illegal trade, it's grounds for execution.” Yamni said, hands balled into fists on the arms of the chair.

“This is big, my dear! Don't you understand who would pay for information directly from the president's meetings?” Daniel said intensely, his blue eyes bright.

“You've fucking lost it, man. I can't do this! I may be good at shedding crocodile tears to get out of some shitty situations, but this is miles out of my league!” The light in Daniel's eyes scared them. They knew he wouldn't be convinced of the futility of his plan.

“You can, dear! I know you can. And I'm sure Aariv is confident in your ability as well.” Daniel leaned back in his chair, a smug smile on his face as Aariv's name cut through Yamni.

“Let me see him.” Yamni sighed. “Then I'll decide.”

“You're acting like you've got a choice. You will do this. I decide when you see your brother, not you. Consider this a bit of a punishment for running away in the first place.”

“Fuck you.” Yamni spat.

“Not interested. Time is of the essence, my dear. The train the dear ambassador is supposed to be on leaves at six in the morning and we've got quite a bit to go over before you're ready to go. Are you willing to take her place?” Daniel said, standing and offering his hand to shake Yamni's.

Yamni glared, shaking his hand once with a bit more force than absolutely necessary.

“Doesn’t really matter if I'm willing or not, does it?” they asked bitterly.

“This whole operation will go much more smoothly if you are.” Daniel replied. He walked around the desk and put his arm around Yamni's, much to their discomfort. “Now, I'm going to take you to a makeup artist or sorts. A bit more... high-profile than your average cosmetologist of course, but same basic job, right? And while she's making your face all different, I'll explain exactly what you need to do.”

“Fine.” Yamni sighed, indignant as Daniel led them out of the house and down the street with his arm still around their shoulders.

Yamni let out a sigh of relief when Daniel told them to wait at the base of the set of stairs, leading up to another, nearly identical house. He knocked on the door and a tall, imposing woman answered, her long brown hair pulled into a ponytail. She grinned widely when she saw Daniel at the door.

“Hia, Danny-boy! What can I do for you?” she asked.

“My dear Yamni needs a bit of a makeover! They're the one who's taking the trip for us tomorrow.” he replied. The tall woman looked Yamni over, then nodded.

“He could work pretty well as our stand in.” she said with a nod.

“I'm not a he.” Yamni corrected automatically.

“They?” she asked. Yamni nodded.

“You can't correct people like that while you're standing in for the ambassador.” Daniel said coldly.

Yamni's jaw clenched. “I know that, I'm not a fucking idiot.” they snapped.

“Why don't we take this inside!” the tall woman said, falsely cheery. She led the two inside, closing the door behind Yamni.

“My name is Isa, by the way. It's nice to meet you.” the woman said.

“Yamni.” they said with a polite nod.

“I completely understand the whole correcting people when they call you by the wrong pronoun thing, by the way.” she said with a knowing smile. “It becomes second nature. And it's my personal opinion that you should keep correcting them.” she paused. “Though Daniel's right. Not while you're playing the ambassador.”

“Is now really the time?” Daniel asked, impatience tinging his voice. “We've got less than seven hours before that train leaves and I've still got a lot to explain.”

“Before you explain anything, I need to do some work here. You do look a lot like the ambassador hon, but you still need to be fitted with some prosthetic facial enhancers, and, well...” she mimed breasts, cupping her hands over her chest. “Ya know? So that's gonna happen first, okay? And the fewer people in the room for that, the better.” Isa said pointedly. “You know where the living room is, Danny.” she said sweetly, putting her hand on Yamni's shoulder and leading them into another room, filled with containers haphazardly stacked on shelves and filled to the brim with what Yamni could only assume were costume supplies.

She sighed as she she closed to door. “I fuckin' hate him.” she muttered.

“Then why do you stay?” Yamni asked.

“He helps pay for things I need. Hormone replacement isn't cheap. I can deal with him though. He's just a fucking prick is all.” she shrugged. “And I'd rather not be aiding a damn criminal, but... sometimes a situation's out of my control.” she paused and looked at Yamni with a sheepish smile.

“Sorry. I talk a lot. Let's get started.” she said, rooting through one of the boxes. “Do you bind your chest or are you naturally flat-chested?” she asked.

“Uh.” Yamni said, slightly uncomfortable as heat rose up their neck.

Isa paused. “I'm sorry. This is going to be pretty awkward, but if you're figured out as an imposter, it's your head on the line. Daniel's covering his tracks. You're the one who's going to take one for the team, and it's not even your team.” she sighed. “I want to help you not get caught and killed because of Daniel's crazy scheme. It's the least I can do, right?”

Yamni nodded. “Thank you. This is so different than anything I've ever done, I'll need all the help I can get.” they admitted. “And I'm naturally somewhat flat-chested.”

“A-cup?” Isa asked, looking through the box.

“Yeah.”

Isa nodded. “I'm definitely going to have to give you prosthetics then. They won't bother you or anything, will they? You know, dysphoria-wise?”

Yamni shook their head. “Not with such a short time. And I feel like I'll be... preoccupied mentally, with everything else. I'll be fine.” Isa nodded again.

“Aaaand you're pretty small, so there might need to be a bit more padding in the clothes. You're just about the same height as the ambassador, so you won't need heels or anything, that's good. Flats are easier to walk in... or run, if you need to.” As she spoke, Isa gathered clothes, makeup, and other things Yamni didn't quite see into a pile on a table.

“Now, try this on if you wouldn't mind, there's a screen over there.” Isa said, handing Yamni a professional-looking business dress and blazer. “I just need to see where I should add some padding and such. Luckily, you'll only be standing in for the ambassador for one day, so you'll only need one set of professional clothes.” Yamni nodded and changed quickly, looking in the mirror with distaste.

Isa looked at them critically. “You look like a kid playing dress-up.” she said bluntly. Yamni opened their mouth to argue, but Isa raised her hand, shaking her head. “That isn't your fault, and I'm not trying to be rude. The ambassador has fifteen years on you, give or take, and you're still not padded out. And you're still growing.”

“I'm twenty-three.” Yamni said.

“Oh. I mean, I was close. I thought you were like seventeen, for cristssake. Twenties or not, you're still too young to be doing this.” She muttered.

“I wish I didn't have to.” Yamni snorted.

“If... you don't mind me asking, why are you doing it then? You ran off before, why not go again, start over. Maybe leave the city if you can.”

“Daniel, that bastard, has my eleven-year-old brother. Won't even let me see him until I do this.” Yamni's blood began boiling, speaking through clenched teeth. “I have no choice.”

Isa's eyes were wide. “I knew he wasn't a good man... But kidnapping a child? That's a new level of low.” she shook her head. “I'm so sorry, Yamni. I'll do my damnedest to make sure you get through this.”

“Thank you.” Yamni said with a sigh. “I just can't wait for this shit to be over.”

“I understand. Let's get on with the padding and such, okay? And in a few days you'll be home and you never have to think of any of this ever again.” Isa said, smiling as encouragingly as possible. Yamni returned the smile halfheartedly.

An hour later, Yamni couldn't recognize the person looking at them in the full-length mirror. That person was at least thirty, with wider hips and larger breasts than Yamni had. That person was decidedly feminine. Yamni glared, a facial expression that was decidedly theirs.

“Well, you may not like it, but you absolutely look like the ambassador when you don't have that murderous expression on your face.” Isa said, looking at her handiwork. “The makeup is extremely long lasting, believe me. You'll definitely be fine for one train ride and meeting.” she said. “Now to show the completed product to Daniel.” she opened up the door, and walked out, presenting Yamni with a flourish.

“It took you long enough.” Daniel said, stern look directed at Isa.

Isa waved her hand nonchalantly. “You can't rush these things, Danny-boy. And Yamni here looks exactly like our dear ambassador, amiright? You have to admit, I did a fantastic job.”

“That you did.” he admitted. “Now, it's time to talk about what you need to do.” He sat in one of Isa's plush living chairs casually, crossing his legs comfortably.

“Are you discussing this in my house?” Isa asked, eyebrows raised.

“It's not like I can take them elsewhere at the moment. The transport won't be taking Yamni to the train station with the decoy guards until six in the morning. It's past curfew.” Daniel said smugly.

“That's never stopped you before.” Isa challenged.

Daniel stood and opened up his dark blue blazer, showing the 10mm on his hip.

“You really want to argue with me, Isabelle?” he asked casually. Yamni watched Isa freeze, her eyes wide.

“Daniel, for fuck's sake!” Yamni cried. “Put that way, you're scaring her for no reason, you asshole!”

A silent, tense moment passed before Daniel let his jacket fall, sitting back down. He gestured at the couch in front of him. “Sit.”

Yamni sat stiffly on the couch.

“You can leave, Isa.” he said, waving her off. Isa left without a word.

“You're a fucking prick, you know that?” Yamni said.

Daniel shrugged. “That doesn't matter. What matters is you getting the information I need.”

“What made you go from small-time smuggler to a fucking kidnapping anti-government spy and criminal informant?” Yamni hissed.

“The money, my dear! I can get millions for any government information, anything that will help other groups cause some trouble and unrest.”

“You're going to help the anti-government crazies for money? I mean, I know you're a greedy dick, but that seems a bit too high-stakes, even for you.”

“Well, consider this then- the more general unrest there is, the more people will want to feel protected with weapons, or want to feel calmer with some self-medication. More business for me.”

Yamni shook their head. “You're fucking nuts, man.”

“So says you. But we aren't talking about me right now, miss ambassador Anna Patel. You need to nail down her mannerisms and voice perfectly.” he said.

“I'm no actor.” Yamni said bitterly.

“Anyone can learn with a bit of persuasion. I've got a few videos and such here, and those will explain her political affiliations and opinions as well.” Daniel said, pulling out his cell and enabling the hologram screen.

“I don't think watching some videos is going to help me here, Daniel.” Yamni said doubtfully.

“Well you'd better learn all you can, my dear. We don't have too long until your transport leaves. You've got to learn all you can.”

Yamni glared as the video started. The ambassador's voice was a bit lower than theirs, and had more force behind it than Yamni had. Yamni could hear her years of experience in her voice.

“You are rather lucky though, the ambassador isn't expected to speak so much in this meeting, she's only there to represent her country, not to give a speech. You could play off any vocal issues as a sore throat.” Daniel said, as he loaded up another video.

“I think I understand her voice now.” Yamni said, trying out speaking in the unfamiliar voice. They felt absolutely ridiculous.

“Hm. Almost. You need more conviction behind it, maybe just a bit lower. And don't make that face while you speak, you need make everything look natural.”

“When the hell did you become a professional actor?” Yamni said, dropping the voice. “I can't do this, it's useless and far too risky.”

“It won't be useless if you pull this off without an issue, and it's not risky if you do everything I say.” Daniel said, standing and glaring at Yamni, finger jabbing the air as he made his point. “Now, you will do this, my dear. Any more dissension and Aariv will face the consequences.” Yamni's blood went cold and they nodded, jaw clenched.

“Now,” Daniel said as he sat down, “this video will better explain the ambassador's mannerisms when confronted with views she disagrees with...”

Yamni's nerves spiked as six in the morning approached. They looked at the clock with a pounding heart as Daniel stood.

“Well miss Patel, good luck in your meeting with the president.” Daniel said with a kind smile. Internally, Yamni shuddered, but plastered a friendly smile on their face as Daniel stood.

“And of course, one last thing.” he said, pulling a box out of his pocket. He took a step closer to Yamni, a few inches too close for comfort. “You need to wear this of course. Your clothes already have bioscanner tricks in them, I made sure. But this will make everything one hundred percent certain.” He smiled as he gently moved the long black wig from the back of Yamni's neck and clasped a small round pendant around their neck. It felt strangely warm on their skin and far too heavy for its size.

“And this will act as a very high-quality recording device.” he said, taking Yamni's wrist and slipping a bracelet on. “To start it, simply twist the gem.” he said, tapping it. Every touch from Daniel made Yamni's skin crawl, and as soon as they were able, they took a step back.

Daniel looked at his watch with a smile. “Your transport to the train station is almost here, miss Patel. You'd better get ready to go.”

Isa stepped into the room hesitantly. She refused to look at Daniel as she stepped up to Yamni, handing them a purse.

“This has makeup and such in it, if you need to touch anything up.” she said stiffly. She softened a bit as she focused on Yamni. “Good luck, Yamni.”

They nodded. “Thank you again, Isa. For everything.”

“Enough. It's time for you to head out, your transport is here and you don't have time for this.”

Yamni took a deep breath, clutching the strap of the purse to feel grounded. They had no clue what to expect, but Aariv's life depended on them. They took another deep breath, straightened their back, and walked out the front door.

The car waited for them in front of Isa's house, black and slick in the early morning light. Yamni walked with as much confidence as they could manage, stepping into the car. The man behind the wheel glared. Yamni glared right back, recognizing the man from the night before.

“I can't wait to never see you again.” Yamni said.

“Fuck off.” the man replied, and he began driving.

“How'd Daniel manage to get a car anyway? You need a government pass and a shit-ton of money for private vehicles.” Yamni said, after twenty minutes, the curiosity overtaking their dislike of the man.

“This is your car, ambassador Patel.” the man said sarcastically.

“Daniel stole this car? Are you fucking serious?”

“Kidnapping the ambassador was a bit more complicated than originally thought, and we needed a quick get away. Now are you going to shut up and let me focus or are you going to bother me the whole way to the train station?”

Yamni leaned back in the seat, staring out the window at the passing buildings that reached for the sky and scrapped the clouds. It had been years since they'd been in a car, and they were enjoying the ride despite the situation. Sadness wrapped around their throat when they realized how much Aariv would have enjoyed the ride as well.

The ride was over far too quickly for Yamni's comfort. They stepped out of the car into the crowded station, the large man cutting through the crowd, acting as Yamni's body guard. Yamni let themself slip into the role of Anna Patel, walking confidently and not making eye contact with anyone as they walked onto the posh government car of the train.

Aariv could speak, if he really wanted to. He rarely saw a reason to, and he was silent even as he was grabbed from behind and pulled into a back alley. He didn't call for help as he was shoved into the back of a black car with heavily tinted windows, and it didn't occur to him to do anything than stare, dazed and afraid, at the driver. The burly man didn't look at the boy as he pulled out of the alley with a screech of tires, nobody around to notice as the illegal car sped down the road and away from Aariv's home.

When he was pulled from the car by a man twice as tall as he was, he didn't say anything.

When he was presented to Daniel without a word from the henchman, he didn't say anything.

When Daniel stared him down, one eyebrow raised and a smug expression on his face, he finally spoke.

“Fuck you.”

Daniel laughed once, a harsh bark that cut through the room. “That's it? That's what you're gonna greet me with? Goddamn, you're just like your sibling.” The man stood, walking around his neat mahogany desk and pinching the boy's chin between his fingers.

“Listen here, brat. You're expendable here. You're a pawn. You, I don't need. Your sibling is the one I’m trying to get a hold of. And any minute now, Yamni will come through that door, spitting fire, and they will do everything I say. Wanna know why?” he asked, leaning in close. The boy's deep brown eyes bored into the older man's.

“Because, if they don't I will kill you. I will kill you slowly and make them watch every single second. And if you're rude I might just do it anyway. So don't fuck with me, kid.”

With that, Daniel let go of Aariv. Aariv didn't react, only watching with a deep frown as Daniel walked back around his desk and sat in his plush leather office chair. Daniel gave him a wide smile, throwing his arms open in welcome.

“Welcome back, kid.”

Aariv said nothing, of course. He had very little contact with Daniel, even while Yamni was working for him. All he knew was that he was a very bad man, cunning and ruthless. Yamni never admitted it but Aariv could tell- they were afraid of him. After they took Aariv and left, they seemed happier than he had seen them since before their parents died.

Aariv's frown deepened. Coming back wouldn't be good for Yamni, and whatever Daniel needed them for was bound to take a toll on them. For the first time since being thrown in that terrifying position, Aariv was afraid.

The next hour was spent in silence. Aariv staring Daniel down as the man went about his own business undisturbed by the murderous stare of the eleven year old boy. It wasn't until a man came in, his face set in a permanent scowl saying that they were here, did Daniel look at Aariv again. He seemed to make a split-second decision and pointed at Aariv.

“Take him downstairs. Don't let him make a sound.” With that, Daniel left the room, leaving Aariv with the angry man.

Aariv opened his mouth, but before he could scream or call out, the man's fist lashed out and everything went dark.

It took a moment for Aariv to remember what happened to him. He sat up quickly, a soft blanket falling off of his shoulders as he blinked into the dimly lit room. He was on a soft couch, a pillow underneath him and a blanket wrapped around him. A woman sat on a chair nearby, looking nearly as caught off guard as Aariv felt.

“Hia,” the woman said, her low voice comforting. Aariv only stared at her, sitting up on the couch and kicking the blanket off.

“Uh, I'm Isa,” she said. “I know you're Aariv, Yamni's brother. And I know you must be scared.” She stopped and took a deep breath. “I'm sorry that you and Yamni are in this situation, but Yamni will be back soon, and you both can go on your way, safely.” She gave the boy her best reassuring smile. Aariv didn't react.

“Are you thirsty?” she asked. Aariv hesitated before nodding once.

“Is water okay?”

Another nod. Isa stood with a nod of her own and headed off to her kitchen, leaving Aariv alone to look around. Folded on a nearby table were Yamni's clothes, their boots sitting neatly on top. Aariv felt tears well up in his eyes. His head hurt and he didn't know where Yamni was, he was kidnapped and scared and suddenly it was all too much. With a gasp he broke into sobs, deep shaking breaths wracking his small frame as he hugged his knees close to his chest and let the tears flow.

Isa returned with wide yes, the water bottle in her hand all but forgotten as she sat next to the crying child.

“Oh hon, please don't cry, everything will be okay,” she muttered softly, rubbing Aariv's back in what she hoped was a comforting gesture. Aariv tolerated her touch, too caught up in his emotions to stop her anyway. He felt alone, even as the nice woman rubbed his back and cooed soft words.

He cried for ten long minutes, and part of him realized in a detached sort of way that he hadn't cried so much since his parents died. That thought brought on another wave of tears and another wound of comforting words from Isa.

Finally, the tears trickled to a stop. He took a few deep breaths that hitched in his throat. Isa offered him the water bottle, slightly closer to room temperature, and he took it gratefully.

Isa looked at the clock. “Yamni should be- no, will be back within the hour,” she said with a warm smile. “You're almost home free, kiddo, don't worry, okay?”

Aariv didn't bother to nod, and instead laid back down, his eyes watching the clock as the seconds ticked slowly by.

Yamni left the meeting room with shaking legs, flanked on both sides by body guards. Their mind reeled, trying to comprehend the things that were said in that meeting.

Daniel truly had no idea what he had thrown Yamni into.

The guards escorted Yamni back to the ambassador's car quickly, not letting anyone take a clear picture of them or letting anyone stop them for questions. Yamni hadn't needed to talk through the meeting, only turning on the recording device when it began and switching it off with shaking hands when everything was said and done.

The ride back to Daniel's place was silent aside from the rumble of the asphalt underneath the tires. Yamni only stared at the bracelet recording device that felt like it weighed several tons hanging from their wrist. Their chest felt too tight, their skin too warm and their clothes too constricting in the confines of the car. They had the overwhelming urge to throw themself, and the recorded meeting on them, out of the moving vehicle.

The only thing that stopped them was Aariv. The miles between them and their brother seemed to stretch on for years, until finally they turned down a familiar street and Yamni saw Daniel, his entire demeanor smug as the car rolled to a stop.

Yamni stepped out, their face already set in a glare as they looked up at Daniel up on the top of the stairs. He smiled down at them and threw his arms open.

“Now was that so hard?” he asked, before turning to the door and waving them to follow. Yamni did follow, their fists clenched and teeth gritted as Daniel swaggered into his office and sat at his desk. He held his hand open with a giddy expression. Yamni hesitated.

“You don't know what was said in that meeting, do you?” they asked, their voice low.

Daniel shrugged. “All I know is that it was some sort of exclusive thing, no press allowed inside. Anything said in there must be pretty damn important,” he said. “Now, give me the bracelet.”

“Daniel... this... oh, fucking hell.” Yamni dropped their glare. “Daniel, this information needs to go public, not just to the highest bidder. This is fucked up,” they nearly pleaded.

“I don't care,” Daniel said flippantly, but Yamni registered the doubt that flitted across his face.

“People could die,” they cried. “Daniel, they want to sent a bomb- a fucking nuclear bomb- across the ocean. They want to take out several countries, this will affect, no, this will fucking murder millions!” they shouted.

Daniel stared at Yamni, who gave him a terrified, pleading look in return. Daniel's expression hardened.

“That's not really any of our concern then, is it?”

Yamni blinked.

“Do you really think this won't affect us? Are you really such a stone cold bastard that you can't see that millions of people are going to die-”

“Shut up!” he shouted suddenly, standing and leaning over his desk to get in Yamni's face.

“This information is worth far more than I could have expected. Do you know how much the media would pay for this?”

“Do you know how fast the government would shut down every media station in the entire country?” Yamni spat back.

Daniel leaned back, sitting in his chair and tapping his fingers together thoughtfully.

“War. All-out atomic war. That would be bad for business,” he said quietly. Yamni gave him a dubious look, but didn't interrupt him as he seemed to speak to himself.

“I need to sell this information. I need to stop this from happening as well.” He looked up at Yamni. “No. You need to stop this from happening,” he said.

Yamni shook their head.

“No, I've done my bit. You need to deal with this yourself, I'm fucking done with your plans. I can't do anything anyway.”

“You do care and you know it,” Daniel said, standing again. “You, Ambassador Patel, can do something.” He looked at his watch. “It's still pretty early in the afternoon, you could easily get an audience with the President and make sure nothing bad happens.”

“You're fucking kidding me,” Yamni snorted. “You're nuts, I can't just walk into the president's office. What would I even do?”

“Kill him, obviously.”

Yamni laughed, a desperate giggle that that had no control over. “Of all the idiotic and downright impossible plans I’ve heard, that is by far the worst. I'm no damn assassin, Daniel.”

“Yamni, you could stop this war from happening. If the president's gone-” Daniel started before Yamni shook their head.

“You don't understand, they're all behind it. The vice president, the whole cabinet, every single ambassador in that room knew exactly what would go down.” Yamni shook their head again. “There is nothing we can do at all, Daniel.” Hopelessness made their voice crack, and for the first time in a long time, they sounded young.

Daniel took a step back. “I could make you do this,” he said casually. “Your brother is over at Isa's house, but I could easily send dome men over-”

“Fuck you! You don't understand, you bastard! I could kill the president, I could kill the vice president too, and this will still happen! Too many higher-ups are involved.” Tears streaked down their face, makeup rubbing away as they swiped at their eyes. “Everything is so fucked.”

Daniel slunk back to his desk and sat heavily in the chair. “When?” he asked.

“Next month,” Yamni said.

Daniel nodded. “Alright. I have an idea. I have a lot or connections, connections abroad, connections in the media. I can get this story out, and make a fortune off of it.”

“You really are such a greedy bastard,” Yamni sighed, unsurprised. “You could just give the information away, but you're still going to try and profit off of this.”

“That's business.”

Yamni shook their head. “You know what? I don't care. What the fuck ever, do what you want. I just want to go home with Aariv.” Exhaustion seemed to weigh them down suddenly. Daniel nodded once, sending a quick message, presumably to Isa.

A few minutes later, quick footsteps echoed down the hall and Daniel's office door was thrown open.

“Yamni!” Aariv fried, launching himself into his sibling's arms and squeezing them tight.

“Aariv,” they breathed, feeling his warmth and breathing easily for the first time in what felt like their entire life. “Are you okay?”

Aariv didn't reply, still clinging to Yamni with all the strength in his young arms.

“He wasn't hurt too badly, though there was an incident... Well, he is fine,” Daniel assured Yamni, who only glared in response. Isa nodded.

“He's okay, I took care of him.”

“We're going home,” Yamni said, picking their brother up.

“You need to change first,” Isa reminded them gently. Yamni looked down at their professional outfit and glared. With a scowl at Daniel, they handed Aariv off to Isa.

“Don't let him touch Aariv,” Yamni said, voice low. Isa nodded, and Yamni went around her, grabbing their clothes from the living room and locking themself in the bathroom.

Yamni had never changed their clothes so quickly. Everything about Danel's home was sickeningly familiar and they couldn't get out sooner. The threw the professional clothes in a corner and threw the door open. Daniel gave Yamni a smugly knowing smile. His demeanor radiated that he would be seeing Yamni again soon. Isa handed Aariv over quickly and, with a final glare at Daniel, left.

“Are we going home?”

Yamni flinched. Aariv's voice was weak and shaking from emotion and discomfort. They could tell he would take a while to recover from the ordeal.

“Yeah dude, we're going home.”

“Is it safe?”

Yamni had no idea how to answer that.

#original writing #writing

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judasbeast · 8 years ago

Text

Apotheca: Business

@skwilliam (i hope this tagged you tumblr’s doin some weird shit.)

here is my fic thing I wrote for my favorite 20′s style queen, Apotheca. it also includes my own oc. pls take it i’m so t i r e d

It was a cold night in Gotham, and the good doctors stood in front of the Iceberg Lounge. Apotheca stood with her head held high, her red ‘business’ lipstick painted brightly on her lips. She absently played with the pearls on her necklace. Her beloved husband stood next to her, dressed in a simple brown coat and khakis. They appeared to be waiting on someone. Jon checked his watch every so often.

"Where’s the child we never had?“ He asked. Apotheca giggled behind a delicate hand. "Late as usual, I assume. We’ll just have to begin the party without her.” The doctor adjusted the brim of her white cloche hat. Before she could open the door, Jon took hold of her hands and pulled her closer.

“A moment, darling.” He said, giving her a kiss. It was their tradition to give each other a kiss before she conducted business, a good luck gesture if you will; but let’s be real, they’d kiss each other anywhere, anytime, good luck or not.

“Knock 'em dead, my love.”

“Only if necessary, dear.”

And with that, they opened the door and stepped inside. One could always hear the click of her heels before you saw her coming. Jonathan, always her faithful shadow, stayed behind her during these deals, as they were known to get a bit… messy. They reached a table with three, clean cut men in suits, talking over wine and steaks. Apotheca set her sequined handbag on the table and went to take off her lavish, white fur coat. She stopped when her husband helped her out of it instead and hung it on the back of her chair.

“Thank you, Jon.” She smiled and curled a finger under his chin, pressing a kiss to his cheek. It left a lipstick stain, but he didn’t notice nor did he care. They lingered in the moment before taking their seats. An empty chair was to Apotheca’s left.

“We waiting on someone else?” The man who seemed to be the boss asked. “Oh, yes my friend should be arriving shortly, but we can start without her. She won’t mind.” She said, crossing her legs. A nervous looking waitress came by and took her order, just wine and a whiskey for her husband. Their… Friend would bring her own sugary, caffeinated drink. Most of these deals began with small talk and pleasantries, just to be civil before the real difficulties began.

They were hardly ten minutes into their chat before the doors busted open and the pungent perfume of gasoline and sewer hit the company like a tidal wave. The disgusting smelling person at the door stopped to flirt with the nervous waitress before weaving her way through tables and chairs, stealing a woman’s wine glass, and plopping at the chair next to Apotheca. Loudly propping their grimy boots on the table, she downed the glass of wine in one go.

"Sup, suits, how we doin’ tonight? Sorry for the fashionable lateness, my date with Jonesy caused me to lose track'a the time.“ She said, slamming the wine glass on the table and wiping her mouth with the back of her grimy hand. Apotheca grinned politely at her associates, patting her friend��s knee. The men looked at one another before gray haired man on the right pointed his steak knife at the kid. "You bring children to your business deals now?” He asked.

"Razor is much older than she looks. Besides, she always been such a help when things go south.“ The doctor lovingly ruffled Razor’s greasy red mohawk.

"S'Right.” She said, looking proud of herself as she cracked open a rather large Red Bull. Apotheca swirled the wine in her glass, and Jon lit a cigarette. They let the moment sink in before the doctor cleared her throat.

"I think that’ll be enough idle chat.“ She said, suddenly switching gears. Her posture changed and she sat up straighter. "Now, Vincent, let’s discuss your affairs. You’ve gotten yourself in quite an economical pickle. I’m afraid I’ll have to stop the supply of pain pills and other such luxuries until I get my money. And that’ll include interest.” She said, sipping her wine.

Vincent sighed and rubbed his forehead. “I told ya, Doctor, I don’t have it. I’ve been trying to collect, but business is tanking. I barely have enough to pay my employers.” He griped. Apotheca grinned again.

"And yet you seem to have plenty for expensive booze and fancy dinners. And those lovely suits, must be Italian, am I correct?“ She asked, her eyes looking for traces of lies on their faces. Apotheca had sent Razor and few of her employees to spy on this particular mob family, so she knew plenty about where there money was going. Razor pulled out a knife and jabbed it in the bread basket, getting two rolls on a knife and eating them shish-ka-bob style. She winked and flicked her tongue at the nervous boy to Vincent’s left. He blushed darkly and tried to eat his steak without looking at Razor too much.

"W-well we’ve also been trying to pay off other bosses, y'know. We’ll have your money next month, I promise.” Vincent was really trying to cover his ass now. Apotheca tsked and opened her handbag, pulling out a small notebook. “Now let’s look at numbers. See, you’ve been promising to pay me since November, and it is January now. I’ve been ever so generous and patient with you since you pay pretty well for my products, but I’m afraid if you don’t pay now, then we’ll take our business elsewhere. So pardon my French, but at this point in the game, your promises don’t mean shit.” She snapped the notebook. A vein began to pop in Vincent’s forehead.

"Are you calling me cheap, you sorry, conniving-“ he wasn’t given a chance to finish when Jon jumped to his feet and Razor attempted to lunge over the table at him. Apotheca caught her husband by the crook of his elbow and Razor by her patched vest. "Now, now, sweets, let’s not cause a scene. I’m sure Vincent didn’t mean what he was about to say, now did he?” She asked, her voice leveled but hinting that if she were to let go of her people, it was going to get violent. Vincent cleared his throat and adjusted his tie. “Not at all.”

Apotheca rested her chin in one hand, keeping the other on her lap. “Wonderful. Now back to your payment, I want my money by tonight. I will accept it no later. Cash only, I will not take checks.” In the early days, she learned never, ever use or accept checks. They were easily traceable and besides, what bank would take checks from mob bosses?

"And I’m telling you, I. Don’t. Have it. End of story. I can have it to you by February.“ Vincent waved his hand dismissively. That made her blood boil, but she kept a cool smile on her face. "Oh, dear. I suppose February will have to do, won’t it?” She asked, feigning defeat with a hefty sigh. Jon smiled, he knew exactly what was coming next. Razor tried to muffle her giggle. Before Vincent could say another word, Apotheca reached under the table and pulled out her handgun, hitting Vincent point blank in the head and his gray haired partner in the chest. The boy to his left, with black, curly hair and hardly out of teen hood, had covered his face and cowered in his chair. Jon was on him in seconds, a syringe of fear toxin at his neck with his thumb on the plunger. Razor came up behind him, grabbing some hair and poising her knife like she meant to scalp the poor boy. Apotheca stood, the beads on her sumptuous black dress swaying as she walked, and sat across from him on the table.

“Now you seem much more agreeable, sweetie, what’s your name?” She asked softly, holding his chin. The boy gulped and stuttered out “Michael.”

“Alright, Michael. You’ll have my money to me by tonight, now won’t you? In exchange, I’m sure we can find a nice suitable position in our family. Maybe you can even have a little fun with Razor. Would you like that, sweetness?” She asked, comfortingly touching his face. It wasn’t his fault his boss was an idiot, why punish the kid? He gave a weak nod.

"O-of course ma'am, tonight.“ He said, his voice cracking with anxiety. Apotheca looked pleased and gently poked his nose with a long, perfectly manicured nail. "I knew I could count on you. Let him go, sweets.” Jon withdrew his syringe and put it in his pocket, straightening his jacket. Razor ran a hand through his hair and pulled the knife away.

“You’re free to go, young man.” Apotheca said shortly and the boy scrambled to get out the door, forgetting his jacket. Razor cackled. “Man, his face! He was pissing himself! He was lucky he was so cute, I woulda been harder on him.” The mob boss smiled before they heard someone shouting.

“Goddammit, Apotheca! What have I told you about shooting up my club?!” Oswald waddled towards them as fast he could, the thick cigar in his mouth puffing with smoke. “I’m sorry, Oswald, but business went sour with him. It was necessary violence. I promise, we’ll have it cleaned up for you.” She said, her voice like velvet, hoping to quell him before he got worked up.

"Better watch the old blood pressure, Ozzy. Wouldn’t want you to have a stroke.“ Razor said from behind her, giving Oswald a Cheshire grin. Apotheca sighed deeply. She loved her friend to death, but she never knew when to shut her mouth.

"YOU!” Oswald bellowed, brandishing his umbrella at Razor, his face red and splotchy with anger. “You are violating about seven different restraining orders by being here you lunatic piece of gutter trash!” He jabbed the end of the umbrella to her chest. Razor didn’t even look slightly fazed. “Yeah, yeah, waddles, I’ll be outta your receding hair in no time. This place is too stuffy for me anyhow.” She flicked the barrel of the umbrella gun before she was whacked over the head with it.

“What she means to say is that we’ll get going once we clean up and pay.” Jonathan intervened before Razor and Cobblepot killed each other. Oswald glared at Jonathan. “You’ll make sure of it, Crane. Spotless! I want no blood stains. I will NOT have my business ruined by your 'business’!” He snapped before waddling away.

"He’s gonna give himself a grand mal seizure one’a these days.“ Razor muttered, picking dirt from under her nails with the point of a steak knife. They cleaned up the blood and disposed the bodies in the boiler room below the club. Once they payed for their drinks, they walked outside into the night.

"I think that went rather well.” Apotheca said, putting her tiffany blue plated gun in her coat pocket. Jonathan nodded and wrapped his arm around his gorgeous wife. “I’m off to Jonesy’s. Gimme a holler if you are in need of my services, m'lady.” Razor gave a dramatic bow before giving her friend a bear hug. “Don’t cause too much trouble sweetpea.” The doctor smiled, knowing fully well Razor WAS the trouble.

“Oh, you should know me better than that, Doc.” She laughed and ran off into the darkness. Jonathan’s arms slipped around her waist from behind. “Where to now, darling?” He asked, resting his bony chin on her shoulder. His long ginger hair brushed against her rouged cheek. Apotheca sighed in content. “Home, dearest. I still have some… Unfinished business to take care of.” She purred, and he felt her nails gently trace up his thigh. Now that’s the kind of business Jon loved.

#apotheca #apothecrow #razor #mentions of razorcroc #all around tomfoolery #can this be part of kog?#i'm so proud of this i'm #jonathan crane #scarecrow

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