#he walked so Poppy could run and look how fast she is running

[dontworryihaveyourblorbos]

Fuck it, King Peppy analysis.

I see a *lot* of Peppy hate, and I get it, but I also have to break my silence. I really do not think he’s as bad as people say he is. In fact, I kind of like him! “But he lied about the strings!” “But he didnt rescue the snack pack!” “But he lied about Viva!”. And to that I say ladies and gentlemen, let me cook.

1. He lied about the strings. OF COURSE he did. Peppy knew three things: one, like Branch said, the strings coming together leads to fighting. Two, if Poppy knew there were other trolls, she’d immediately apply the cupcakes and rainbows and hugs method until they were besties. Three, the strings and ensuing fight+whatever Poppy was cooking would be too much for the tiny tiny Pop troll population to handle. They can’t fight, so they do what pop trolls do best, hide. That’s exactly what Peppy was trying to do. Next.

2. He didn’t go to rescue the snack pack in the first movie. First of all, mans is ancient. Second, someone needed to stay behind and watch the villagers while they were in Branch’s bunker. He’s not built for long ass physically intensive adventures, but he can run a village and hold authority and keep everything from being trashed completely, which he did. We can safely assume that the bunker was fine after the first movie and not completely destroyed, likely thanks to Peppy. If he hadn’t stayed behind and kept everyone in check, the place would have been uninhabitable. But nah, Peppy kept everyone safe and stable. Hell yeah brother.

3. He lied about Viva. Can you imagine how devastated Poppy would be to learn that she has a sister, only for that joy to be crushed when he has to tell her that said sister is dead? Poppy wouldn’t be able to let it go, especially with her longing to have a sister. Why make her mourn someone she doesn’t know when she doesn’t have to? Why give her that trauma when she, in all reality, is fine not knowing? Because even if it was messed up because she found out, before she found out Viva was alive she was…completely fine. And he said it himself, he was heartbroken. Pop trolls don’t process their feelings, they repress and sing a happy song a little louder than usual. How was Peppy supposed to heal from his own loss and sadness, only to then turn and inflict it on his only remaining daughter, while still in survival mode? He couldn’t. So he didn’t.

Look, I’m not saying King Peppy is perfect or that he didn’t make mistakes. I’m just saying that he did his best, and he’s not a bad character, person, or dad. He raised Poppy to be the amazing Queen she is, he brought his people out of a horrific and dangerous situation and kept them safe, and when he couldn’t protect them anymore he knew his limits and passed the torch on to his daughter while still supporting her, and he went to therapy and began to change his mindsets and heal from everything. He’s definitely not as bad as some people say he is.

One last thing I noticed about him while rewatching TBT. When a Pop Troll is happy, consistently, their ears stay pointed upwards. When a Troll is sad, their ears droop down. And if they’re sad or gray for long enough, their ears droop down permanently. (Cough cough see my Floyd and Branch ear post cough cough.)

Peppy’s ears are the only ones that just…stick out flat. Forgive me, I couldn’t find any good screenshots from tbt.

Not sad, not happy. To me, this means repressed. He wasn’t just chilling in the background like teehee I’ve made no mistakes ever :3. No, he didn’t like that he had to do those things. He had major trauma and probably a ton of issues he was hiding or repressing, and is only just now beginning to work through them. Why only now? Because he’s not in survival mode anymore. Poppy is queen, strings are destroyed, bergens are chilling, okay, now he can begin the healing process.

Sorry for the novel, but I just really like Peppy and I think a lot of people don’t cut him enough slack or give him enough credit. He’s doin his best.

[lilousmustaches]

In the Shadow of the fifth floor

Warnings: Bruises, violence, virginity, smut, Hogwarts Legacy spoilers.

Notes: My first ever smut with Sebastian Sallow? Hmm.. sounds about right. I'm obsessed with Hogwarts Legacy and I just needed to get this out of my system!! I didn't finish the game yet and the story follow the storyline (Level 27). Let's just imagine they were a little older in the fifth year.

Summary: Sebastian is mad that you keep getting yourself hurt on missions. He knows exactly how to help you.

Sebastian walked fast through the dark corridors towards the Slytherin Dungeons, with a hard expression and a millions thoughts running in his mind. He was so fucking done with everyone taking advantage of your good will when he knew exactly what type of rumors were flying around the castle about you. The weird new fifth year with the strange magic, that hangs out with the blind one and the poor boy that lost his sister. It was incredibly short the list of people who really cared for you and he was sure on the top of it. 

Thanks Merlin that he bumped into Poppy Sweeting in the way, who tolded him exactly where to find you. 

He quickly went down the Slytherin’s common room stairs seeing that it was almost completely empty due to the time. Sebastian ignored all the curious stares from the few remaining there and went straight to the couch facing the dark lake, knewing that it was your favorite place to be. 

He found you laying there with eyes closed and one arm covering them. Sebastian sighed at the view noticing that your clothes and face were still a little dirty from the adventure and could notice several parts of your skin scratched. He knelt down infront of the couch and saw your eyebrows frowing. 

“Seb?” You asked with a small confused voice and he opened a small weak smile. 

“Did you call me madame?” Sebastian answered with a ligh tone seeing you lowering your arm and finally opening your eyes to stare at him. 

“What are you doing here?” You asked, confused, leaning on your elbows, unable to hold back the grunts of pain.

“I could ask you the same thing.” He said sitting next to you when you set up trying to compose yourself. “Ominis told me that he sensed you arriving weirdly back in Hogwarts. He said you were limping.”

“Has he now?” 

“Yes (Y/N), he has.” Sebastian said hardly. “Where the hell have you been?” 

You sighed finally looking away from the giants windows to the lake to stair Sebastian’s hazel eyes.

“I was…” You began cautiously. “Helping a girl out. She needed some things from… well, from the forbidden forest.” 

“Of course she needed.” Sebastian said with a humorless laugh. “And was she, by any chance, missing her legs so she couldn’t go herself?” 

“Sebastian…” You sighed tired knowing exactly where this discussion was heading.

“What?” He shot back. “You know I’m right here. I know you love getting yourself into trouble. Believe me, darling, we got that in common.” Sebastian continued, making you roll your eyes. “But you have to stop getting hurt for those cowards! They are not worth it.”

“It’s not like they’re the only ones making me put myself in harm's way to achieve something that doesn’t concern me!” You snapped before realizing what you’d said, immediately regretting it. Sebastian was taken aback, surprised by your words. He knew, deep down, that he was just like the rest of them. He knew you were still upset about the whole Crucius situation in the Scrythorium, but that was entirely different! You were best friends; he’d shown you all his life and secrets. You’d done it for Anne, too. “I’m sorry, Seb,” You said softly. “I didn’t mean it.”

“I know you didn’t (Y/N)” Sebastian replied with a bitter tone. “Because if you meant it, you would be telling me that my sister mean nothing to you and i refuse to believe that.” 

“Of course Seb…” You said softing your expression putting your hand on top of his. “We’re in this together now.” 

“Absolutely we are.” Sebastian said turning his hand that was resting on the sofa to interlace fingers with you. “I know you care for Anne and you know that i worry about you. You already have enough on your shoulders trying to figure out your powers for some nerds out there be occupying your time with their nonsense.” 

You let a weak laugh out by his words and finally seemed to notice your hands still glued to each other. You could feel his thumb slowly, almost imperceptible, carresing your skin. 

“It’s true that…” You gulped trying to take your mind out of the sensation of his touch that it felt like it started to burn. “I am a little done of people always asking me the most random favors.” 

“I know.” Sebastian continued satisfied that he was able to begin to break those walls of yours  and it was giving space to one more vulnerable side. “Because I know you. And because… we already had this conversation that time you got super drunk on butterbeer in the Three Broomsticks”

“What?” You asked indignant seeing Sebastian laughing at your face. “We did not.”

“Oh love I assure you we had.” Sebastian said feeling a sudden cold in his belly when saw your cheeks turning red from the little pet name. “You get quite talkative when you’re wasted.”

“And whose fault was that?” You snapped raising your eyebrows remembering that he was the one that offered you a little sneak out to Hogsmeade after a boring Potion’s class a few weeks ago. 

“Guilty.” Sebastian said licking his lips having fun with the memories of you tripping your way back, singing and dancing in the streets. “My point is… stop being Miss Perfect. We both know that’s not really you. Those lazy students wouldn’t do half of the things that they ask for you in return if you needed. They don’t care about you, not like… I do.”

Your breathing was cut short by the honestly in his words. You would be dumb not to admit that you didn’t notice Sebastian’s over protection towards you. He was always around, always wanting to be included, always bossing you to do things for your sake. Strangely bothered when he learned you would pass an evening with another male friend. Even if it was Ominis…. Who, by the way, had gave you hundreds of little remarks on how he never saw Sebastian acting so jealous over someone before you.  

But… it was hard to think about that sort of stuff when you were so busy trying to stop a wizard war. When he was acting desperate over a cure for his sister. And let’s not forget he did crucied you. 

So why your hand, that still was intertwined with his, was on fire? 

“How much are you hurt?” Sebastian asked not giving you time to answer his last speech. 

“I’ve been worse.” You shrugged making he roll his eyes. “A few bruises and scratches, really. No big deal.”

“Ah yes? Then prove it.” He said finally letting go of your hand to fold his arms infront of his chest. He saw your confused expression and pointed for you to stand up. “Prove it.”

“Is this really necessary?” You asked tired but saw that he wouldn’t let you go of this. You huffed trying to stand as normally as you could, but as soon as your feet touched the ground an electric wave of pain traversed your body making you grunt, shutting your eyes and grinding your teeth. 

“I bloody knew it.” Sebastian exclaimed shaking his head in disapproval. “Where?” He asked simply and with some seconds of hesitation, you ended up turning around, lifting your shirt showing an enormous bruise that started middle back and ended just above your butt. 

“For Merlin’s beard, (Y/N).” Sebastian cried fighting the urge to touch it. “Did you fall from your hyppogriff? It looks awful. Ominis always says that you are my Karma in this life.”

“Wow thank you very much Sebastian!” You said ironically and turned to face him. 

“C’mom I know what you need.” He said getting up. “Can you walk?” He asked sweetly offering you his shoulder to lean. 

You two walked calmly to wherever he was taking you. It was already late and practically no one was wandering around the castle anymore. With a few comments here and there, you finally stopped infront of the door to the prefect's bathroom in the fifth floor making you frown. 

“Why are we here?” You asked following him inside seeing it was empty. 

“You need a hot bath to ease those bruises.” He exclaimed pointing excited at the giant luxury bathtub in the middle of the room, that looked more like a pool. 

With a shake of his wand, he locked the front door to avoid disturbance and opened the taps to fill the bathtub with boiling water and bubbles. 

“We shouldn’t be here.” You said. Sure, it was reserved to the prefects. This didn’t really bothered you but the tension of the situation made you freeze. Just the two of you… taking a bath… together? The thought excited you in the same amount that scared you. 

“Please. We have done much worse.” Sebastian laughed it out not noticing right away your anxious expression. 

“Oh… ” Sebastian exclaimed when noticed what was happening, finally realizing he didn’t think this through. “Look, I can stay outside making sure no one comes. You take the time you need. You’re sore, you need to relax.” 

“No-“ You answered quickly, surprising him. Surprising you even. “I mean… it’s a giant bathtub.” You shrugged. “Filled with bubbles. You can turn around, I will enter. I will do the same for you.” 

“You sure?” Sebastian asked suspicious not expecting this behavior from you. He really did act on best thoughts to help you feel better. But the possibility of having you completely naked just a few steps away from him, drove him mad. He was scared that you would noticed his bulge growing just from the thought. 

“Yes.” You said with an unknown confidence and Sebastian immediately turned around not being able to think of any usual smarts comebacks. He was too busy trying to keep it together when he started to hear your clothes falling to the ground, one after another. Finally he heard the water moving, meaning you entered the bathtub, followed by your soft voice. “You can turn around now.” 

He looked at you, practically covered up by bubbles and repressed an adoration smile before you yourself looked away, and he took the hint that it was his time to undress. Sebastian took a deep breath trying to control his erection from growing and got in the water as fast as he could. 

“Aren’t you eager to caught a glimpse of me naked?” Sebastian joked when you turned to look at him before he could say it was ok. 

“Very funny.” You smiled ironically throwing some water in his face making him laugh. But the little war was quick over when you moaned of pain because of the movements. 

“Is the water helping?” Sebastian asked more serious when saw your discomfort. He couldn’t stop himself from getting closer to you, that lead him to see a lot of bruises in your collarbone also. 

“It is… this was a great idea. Thank you.” You gave him a weak smile and he copied you. Indeed the temperature of the bathtub was making your muscles relax. It seemed like for the first time in weeks. 

Sebastian gave one more step closer making you stop breathing. His eyes were locked up in yours and the tension was making you shiver. He slowly lifted his hand, hesitantly touching your collarbone, so carefully like he wasn’t even there. You closed yours eyes, breathing out. He was so close. If you extended your hand, you would be touching his very naked torso. 

“You know… Ominis has been asking about you. He’s worried. Imagine if he would saw like that, all hurt.” Sebastian said making you smirk. 

“Then in this case I have to be thankful that’s it’s you seeing me right now, not him.” 

He also smirked with your clever answer, distancing himself from you once again. Sebastian knew that was why you worked so well together. He took care of you, acknowledging your power. Not treating you like you were made of glass. And in return, you backed up his crazy ideas, not being afraid of doing the wrong thing. 

“Do you find him pretty?” He asked mentally cursing his tongue for letting that insecure possessive thought slip out. 

“Who, Ominis?” You asked confused for the sudden change of subject. “I guess he’s ok.”

“Not much your type?” Sebastian chuckled and you copied him. 

“Something like that.” You answered. “Though Garreth it’s pretty cute…”

“You have got to be kidding me.” Sebastian said almost nauseated with jealousy. “That moron.”  

“And what’s your type, Sallow? I would bet galleons that it’s Imelda.” 

“Though you knew me better than that, brat.” He said enjoying the surprise in your face because of the insult. “I despise her, really.” 

“I’m glad that we have that in common.” You said making him laugh. “Have you…” You started hesitant making him frown. “Have you ever had someone?”

Sebastian was astounded by your question. The drip of innocent, the curiosity in your voice… it was rare hearing you sound so unsure like that. He had to breathe to calm his nerves down and remember that you were best friends. It was only normal you wanting to know things like that about him.

"Before Anne was sick…" He started seeing you moving to lean back against the side of the ‘pool’. “When I had time to think about these stuff… I started to hang out with this Ravenclaw girl. I was enjoying the company but definitely not the love of my life. It happened once.” Sebastian chose his word carefully not wanting you to interpret badly. “Well, not once. But just this one girl.”

“I see.” You answered simply, appearing lost in your thoughts. 

“I imagine I know your answer if I ask you the same question?” Seb tested the waters, slowly approaching you once more, seeing you roll your eyes. 

“I’m focused on my tasks Sebastian. Don’t need any distractions…”  Sebastian chuckled, his eyes never leaving yours. His suspcious being confirmed.… nobody had touched you the way he wanted most. 

“Distractions, huh? Is that what you call it?” He teased, inching closer. The bubbles between you started to dissipate, leaving little to the imagination.

“There isn’t very much of a time to loose your virginity in the middle of a wizard war, is there?” 

“There is now.” Sebastian said making you snap your eyes back at him in shock. 

Hell, he knew you knew. He knew everyone knew. It was incredibly obvious how he felt about you. Sebastian was so lost after Anne’s curse, feeling alone… and in a glimpse of a second, there you were. The mysterious gorgeous new fifth year, with a remarkable power, trusting him. Helping him in no matter what. Fighting along him. 

How he could not develop feelings for you? 

“Seb, I-…” You started flabbergasted not expecting to hear him being so straight foward. His hazel eyes you adored were almost desesperate. But he wasn’t backing down. “Are you serious?” 

“Deadly. ” Sebastian said without hesitation and it was like the wind knocked you out for a second. Seeing your reaction, he chuckled looking away suddenly a little shy. His hand passed through his hair, wetting his chocolate curls and you could pratically see his internal battle in his expression. 

“You know we make a hell of a good team, love. I’ve always admire your strength, seeing you battle is a sight. But these moments…” Sebastian pointed to the two of you. “The vulnerable ones… I just… I want to take care of you. Let me take care of you.” 

You stared at him, your heart pounding in your chest. The determination in his eyes was unmistakable, and it tugged at something deep within you. The room seemed to grow smaller, the air thicker, as the weight of his words hung between you.

"Sebastian," You whispered, your voice barely audible. "I... It’s true that we make a good team."

You ended up admitting like you were taking off a giant height from your chest and saw the lips of the boy infront of you slowly turning into a smirk with the confession. It was the green flag that he was waiting for. 

“Do you trust me?” He asked taking one more step forward in a way that your bodies were practically touching now. You knew that he could have a perfect vision of your bare breasts now that the bubbles dissipated, but you couldn’t care less. 

“More than anyone, Seb.” The amount of truth in those words scared you. His face was close enough that you could almost count every single freckle in his face. 

Sebastian finally closed up the distance, putting his hands in each side of your face. He shivered with the feeling of his chest pressing up yours breasts. And ending up that agony, he finally kissed you. 

It was slow, intense and desperate. A fire that had been simmering for too long finally bursting into flame. You could feel his arousal, hard and ready, poking in your tight and excitement made your stomach flip. One of Sebastian’s hands gripped the side of your waist that wasn’t hurt, while the other one  careered you gently in the back, avoiding the bruises, his touch sending waves of warmth through you.

His kisses started to go down to your neck, kissing softly your bruised collarbone. Just like he was fulfilling his wish to take care of you. 

"You've not idea for how long i wanted to do that." He whispered making you shiver. Because as much as you have tried to figh it, you felt exactly the same way. When the realization hit you, you hold his face bringing him back for a desesperate kiss.

His fingers found the way up to your breasts, cupping them gently, his thumbs circling your nipples until they hardened beneath his touch. You gasped into his mouth, your body arching into his. He pulled away just enough to stair into your eyes, before moving his face straight to your left boob. His tongue swirling around your nipple before taking it fully into his mouth. You moaned, your fingers tangling in his hair, holding him to you.

Sebastian’s hand slid down your stomach, his fingers lingering between your legs. He found your clit, his thumb circling it gently, making you gasp and squirm. 

“Sebastian…” You started having trouble to breathe, feeling a whole new sensation that you had experience only with yourself before. 

“Shh.. I’ve got you.” He whispered in your ear, leaving slow kisses there. “I’ve got you”

He slipped a finger inside you, then another, his thumb continuing its torturous circles. He continued to touch you bringing you closer to the edge. Just as you were about to explode, he stopped making you groan in protest.

“Impatient, are we?” Sebastian teased, chuckling at your reaction. He grabbed your tights wrapping them around his waist, placing his hands in your butt. “We don’t need to do anything you don’t want to.”

“I know.” You nodded staring at his preoccupied eyes. “I want you. Please”

This time it was him that moaned impatient, the effect you had on him. 

“This might hurt a little, okay? Specially cause we are underwater.” He explained soflty as he positioned himself at your entrance. He looked into your eyes, seeking permission, and you nodded. He began to enter you slowly, his eyes watching your every reaction. You gasped as you felt a sharp pain, your body tensing making him stop immediately. "Breathe with me," he murmured, his voice calming.

You followed his lead, your breath syncing with his as he continued to fill you up. The pain began to fade, replaced by a growing sense of pleasure.

"You feel amazing," He murmured, his voice strained with effort. "So tight for me.” 

“Don’t stop.” You whispered with your eyes closed enjoying the new sensations and sensed his little smirk, followed by a kiss.

“I won’t.” Sebastian promised. 

And he didn't. He moved slowly, his hips rolling in a rhythm that was driving you both mad. The sound of your combined moans and gasps filling the air. But it was when he started to move faster, that you felt it for the first time…. electric sparks building up the tension. Your magic. Based on his reaction, surprised and pleased, you could see that he sensed too. 

Sebastian never thought he would feel something like that. It was like the pleasure of the act was doubled by an electric wave that was passing through the both of you. He could practically taste his magic mixing up with yours, and in that moment, he knew he was going to be addicted. Sebastian never felt so powerfuld, so strong. 

"Seb." You cried out, your voice a mix of pleasure and desperation. "I'm close."

"Me too," He nodded, his hips moving faster. "Together," He murmured. "We'll go together."

His hand slipped between you, his fingers finding your clit. He rubbed it in time with his thrusts, the dual sensation sending you spiraling towards the edge. And with one final thrust, you both shattered, your cries of pleasure echoing around the room. The world went white, your body convulsing. Sebastian held you tight, his body trembling due his own.

“Are you okay?” He whispered after a few seconds, getting out of you. 

You started to laugh, silly, still high in the post orgasm sensation, soon being followed by Sebastian. 

“I’m guessing this is a yes.” He said giving you one last chaste kiss, before getting out of the pool. 

“We will need to stop practicing spells and start focusing on the practice of this particular skill set.” You said lazily making him laugh. He wrapped one towel around his waist and got you one as well, retourning to the edge of the pool. 

“Oh don’t worry darling, i’m planning to enjoy as many opportunities we have.” He said smirking seeing you slowly starting to move. “We might need a stress relief after our adventures.”

You chuckled shaking your head in denial. You surely didn’t think your night would end like this when you’re fighting spiders in the forbidden forest. 

"Come on, let's get you dried off and back to your room. You need to rest." You took his hand, letting him pull you to your feet. As you stepped out of the bathtub, the cool air hit your skin, making you shiver. And sure it was still new the sensation of being completely exposed infront of your best friend. 

“Oh (Y/N)…” He said frowing his eyebrows with a pained voice making you look up confused. From that angle, Sebastian could see throught the mirror next to the towel rack and saw, once again, your whole back purple from bruises. 

“You know, i don’t break easily Seb.” You said looking at your reflection. 

“I’m painfully aware.” He said wrapping the towel around you, his hands lingering on your shoulders. "Better?" 

“A lot.” You replied with a little smile. He hugged you from behind, making you both face the mirror and your own reflection. 

“That was incredible.” He said leaning his head in your shoulder that wasn’t hurt. 

“It really was.” You agreed breathing out. Sebastian always seemed to understand you better than anyone. It was always been so obvious that your relationship would reach this point, but now that the moment was there, literally infront of you, it was hard to believe. 

“Are you sore?” 

“Yes.” You answered. “But not from the bruises.” 

“My fault.” He said with a smirk, understading what you were reffering to. “(Y/N)… have you felt that?” 

You sighed, your lips turning in a fine line. Of course you knew what he was talking about. The strange enhancer you felt during sex: your magic. You slowly turned to face him looking straight into his eyes.

“I did.” You started. “I don’t know what it was, there’s so much i need to understand about this yet.” 

“It’s okay.” He reassured you with a small smile, passing his hands up and down your arms. “We will figure this out together, love.” 

You nodded entering the hug he was offering you with his arms wide open for you to nest there. Sebastian kissed your forehead protectively still looking at your reflection in the mirror. 

His whole body frozed when he saw a quick flash of a blue light spark from his eyes. 

Not even trying dark magics gave him half of the power he felt inside of you. It fucking terrified him what he could do with that information. 

[clanwarrior-tumbly]

Hello hello!! I was not expecting requests to be open again so fast, but i am DEVOURING your writing, so i shan't complain!

What about Dogday getting saved by a teenager who’s desensitized to the horrors of the factory? Like of course, they’re perturbed, but aside from initially seeing Dogday(because holy shit), the biggest reaction they’ll give is a cringe and a “eugh” or some other mild exclamation of “that’s fucked up.” Essentially just Dogday interacting with a kid who’s weirdly chill with the circumstances and tries to be silly sometimes despite the persisting horrors.

Thank you so much and have a wonderful day/night!!!

Awe thanks! Have a good day/night too!

.......

"You..you're Poppy's angel..come to save us-"

"Eugh..what the hell happened to you?"

While back in the day, Dogday would've scolded you for using profane language...he finds it understandable considering you discovered him in his....erm..current condition.

The initial shock of seeing him would have anybody from outside the factory deeply disturbed.

But he's surprised that you're not fully freaked out and didn't run away.

Instead you manage to get him out of the Playhouse (while curbstomping a few little critters who tried crawling into his body along the way) and found a safe spot to rest.

Despite his insistence that you should leave him, you point out that he mentioned you saving him earlier.

"When you said "us", I thought that included you, too."

"I-I meant the others. The ones who can still walk..and still have a fighting chance. Look at me, kid. All I'm gonna do is weigh you down."

"....I mean, you are kinda heavy. But I've lifted worse with this grabpack. I got you."

He's confused by how oddly calm you are about everything.

If you were able to get down this far in the facility, you would've had to cross paths with Huggy, Mommy, Catnap, and Miss Delight at some point.

By all accounts, you definitely should've been traumatized at least from seeing all the bloody toys laying around.

Yet you're cool as a cucumber as you try your best to fix him (with assistance from Kissy, Ollie, and Poppy, of course, who are stunned you came out of the Playhouse alive)

Dogday remembers how scared the children were during the Hour of Joy, comforting them as he helped them flee the terror...so to be comforted by a kid now felt strange.

Yet your calm demeanor helps ground him whenever he starts to have a panic attack over Catnap finding him or if he feels like a critter or two is already inside of him, trying to take hold and eat whatever organs he had remaining (but it's just a sensation he feels from time to time).

You snap him out of it by asking rather silly questions.

"What if I stuck a flare in your mouth? Would that deter them?"

"...what? Um...I-I suppose that could work, but hopefully it's not a theory we have to test anytime soon.."

Even if Poppy decided to show you the Hour of Joy tape (which he had to look away from and tried persuading you to do the same), your only reaction is a slight grimace and a simple "damn wtf....you guys think any of those workers were running late or didn't go in that day?"

Dogday is shocked you'd joke at a time like this...but she knows you better and tells him you're just like That(tm).

You do care about them. You do wanna destroy the Prototype and save whoever you can along the way--including him.

It just may take some time for him to get used to your personality.

[icdrawings]

The Doughlings

Doey & Reader

Distraught, angered, and numb

Was all you could feel while staring at Doey's now dead body of frozen dough.

Throughout the factory you've learned about his past or well - their past. These poor boys, forced to be stuck together into one person. Each having their own right to be angry.

You kept looking at him, his deformed body resembling the 3 kids inside of him - 3 innocent souls. You walked over to him, taking a minute of hesitation with each step until you were right in front of him. Your legs gave out making you sit. You took off your grab-pack and reached out for one of their hands, it was cold and limp. You could only stare at that small hand, caressing it with your thumb, trying to give a little bit of comfort. Through out this journey you've never once shown emotion, never once made a sound but after meeting Doey you only wished you could have been more expressive with him.

"I'm sorry..." Was barely over a whisper as you let a single tear roll down your face.

You don't know how long you were there but you finally got up, put on the grab-pack and went to the door. Waiting for the hand scanner to load you started to contemplate your next steps 'I need to find Poppy, if she's even alive and figure out what went wrong'

You were so caught up in your thoughts that you nearly missed a cracking sound from behind you Turning fast to look at Doey's body again.

It was still there - black and frozen. You thought you were hearing things but you knew better, you've never let your guard down.

You kept an eye on it - waiting for something, anything. Then you saw it, your frozen ally's body started to crack. There was something moving inside of it, almost as if something was trying to get out.

You didn't want to stick around and find out what. Looked back at the scanner now half way done you kept listening closely to the sounds taking - note when it got louder until the door finally opened.

You were about to make a run for it when you felt something grab onto your leg.

You stood still, as if your body was the one frozen in place. It was heavy and warm and wrapped around your leg. It was almost like someone was hugging you.

Taking a deep yet shaky breath you slowly looked down to confront whatever was there. Only to be shocked that on your leg was a little Doey. You couldn't comprehend what you were seeing. He looked up at you with his hollow eyes - full of innocence.

He started to smile "mommy!"

He hugged your leg tighter with his little hands. You couldn't understand what was happening, Doey was dead, you had killed him with your own hands and yet this little Doey was here calling you his mother. You couldn't even think some more before he started talking again

"Mommy?... Mommy are you okay?..." He looked a bit sadden by your delayed reaction

You kept staring at him - intensely with a stone face. A part of you wants to be happy that he's not trying to kill you but the other half wants to just cry. In this staring contest, you to reach your hand out towards him. Your hand was shaking after what happened in the upper floors but you've done your best to keep it still.

You took your time and luckily little Doey was very patient while being excited - bouncing a bit. Gently you placed your hand down on top of his head feeling the little curls of clay. He let your leg go only for him to capture your hand instead, keeping it in place - seemingly enjoying the warmth and started to giggle.

"Mommy! Mommy!" his smile was huge

You soften a bit and knelt down to take a better look at him. He was about the size of your calf and he sounded more of a child than his original voice.

His body was covered with yellow and so was his face but looking closely his face he also had orange and red freckles.

"Do you know who I am?" You were so caught up in examining him that you almost didn't acknowledge the question. Taking another good look at him.

Only one name comes to mind

"...jack?"

[mightyexorcist]

"Missing"

Dogday stirred awake, blinking the sleep from his eyes feeling drowsy and tired.

But as he looked around the room, he suddenly realized that Angel/Hope was no longer in his lap or in bed next to him. A pang of disappointment and worry washed over him as he sat up, his gaze darting to the empty spot where she had been.

Dogday: "Angel...?"

He said to himself. Minutes later, Dogday immediately sat up straight as he stood up and ran out of the room. Dogday barged into the living room, slightly out of breath from running down the stairs so quickly. His heart was beating fast as adrenaline coursed through his veins. He must have looked worried and frantic, as Mommy longlegs, Poppy, and Kissy Missy all immediately turned to look at him, their expressions a mix of surprise and concern.

Poppy: "Whoa, Dogday, what's the hurry? You look like you've seen a ghost!"

Dogday tried to catch his breath, feeling a bit embarrassed at his rushed entrance but still too worried to notice or care.

Dogday: "I-uh... I can't find Angel. I woke up this morning and she was gone."

He spoke quickly, his voice betraying his concern for his wife's whereabouts. The words caused a ripple of surprise and worry among the others.

Poppy: "What do you mean she's gone? She's not in her room or the bed? Do you think she might gone out for a walk or something?.."

Dogday shook his head, feeling a pang of frustration mixed with worry. He started pacing back and forth as he spoke

Dogday: "No, she wasn't in her room. I checked everywhere! I don't think she would have gone for a walk this early without telling me. I'm worried something might have happened to her."

His eyes darted around the room, as if expecting Angel to suddenly appear.

Mommy longlegs: "Oh dear. She always goes missing, we have to find her again.."

Mommy longlegs placed a comforting hand on Dogday's shoulder, sensing his mounting anxiety.

Mommy longlegs: "Don't worry, Dogday. We'll help you look for her. She can't have gone far."

Poppy nodded in agreement, her expression determined. Kissy Missy joined in as well, a look of concern on her face.

Poppy: "We'll check in the entire forest if we have to. Just for Hope!"

————————————————————————————————

Hours passed as the search continued. They scoured every inch of the forest, calling Angel's/Hope's name until their voices were hoarse. They checked every hiding spot, nook, and cranny, but there was no sign of Angel/Hope anywhere. The once hopeful and determined expressions on their faces slowly morphed into worry and despair.

Dogday: "This is impossible... where could she be? We've searched everywhere!.."

Mommy longlegs looked pale and anxious, gripping her spider legs nervously. Poppy and Kissy Missy stood nearby, their expressions solemn.

Mommy longlegs: “We've searched everywhere... I just don’t understand. Where could she have gone?”

Poppy: “Is it possible that she’s been kidnapped or something? I just don't understand how she could have vanished into thin air..."

Kissy Missy looks slightly worried as well.

Dogday: “What are we going to do? We can't just give up... we have to find her!”

————————————————————————————————

The group rushed into Angel's/Hope's room (again) and into the bathroom, only to find Angel/Hope sitting in a bathtub full of bubbles, completely undisturbed and relaxed. The door had broken open, but luckily the bubbles and the water obscured her form from view. All of them stood there in shock, their eyes wide and jaws dropped as they all stared at her in complete disbelief.

But Dogday's reaction was different. He stood there, blushing furiously as he tried to avert his gaze from his wife's nude form hidden beneath the bubbles.

. . . . . . . .

Angel/Hope: ........You guys owe me a new door.

The others stood there, still speechless, their minds struggling to process the unexpected scene. Dogday was particularly flustered, his face still red as he tried to avert his gaze from Angel's form in the bathtub.

Dogday(flustered): “U-Uh... yeah... we'll... buy you a new.. uh.. door. Sorry about that..”

. . . . . . . .

Angel/Hope: ........What are you guys so worried about..

Poppy, Kissy Missy, and Mommy longlegs finally snapped out of their stupor at the sound of Angel's voice.

Poppy: “Angel! We've been looking for you EVERYWHERE! We were worried sick about you! Where were you?”

Mommy longlegs: “We thought something bad had happened to you!”

Angel/Hope ....Oh no. Please don't tell me you searched everywhere except my bathroom.

The others exchanged sheepish glances, realizing that in their panic and worry, they had overlooked one important place: Angel's/Hope's bathroom.

Mommy longlegs: "...Well... the thought crossed our minds.. but we assumed you wouldn't be in here for hours...”

Poppy: “Yeah.. we didn't think you'd be taking a bath for so long...”

Angel/Hope: ..Oh please, I always take baths for hours, sometimes for the whole day.

The others looked at each other, realizing the logic in Angel's/Hope's statement. They all felt a mixture of foolishness and relief.

Mommy longlegs: “Oh... well... that makes sense... why didn't we think to check here sooner?”

Poppy: “Yeah, I guess we were just so worried that we didn't think of the obvious place...”

Dogday was still trying to hide his embarrassment, his face still slightly pink from seeing her in the bathtub.

Angel/Hope: ....But, you guys owe me a new door.

The others all nodded guiltily, still feeling a bit sheepish about breaking down the door.

Poppy: “Yeah, yeah, we know. We'll get you a new door. No problem.”

Mommy longlegs chimed in with an apologetic smile.

Mommy longlegs: “Sorry about that, Hope. We were just so worried about you… We got carried away in our worry and accidentally broke down the door. We didn't mean to ruin your privacy, dear.”

Dogday finally managed to compose himself enough to speak up, still feeling a bit flustered.

Dogday: “Yeah... sorry about that. We'll replace the door as soon as we can. And... um... you know, we thought something bad might have happened. That's why we were looking for you.”

Angel/Hope shifted awkwardly. Why are they just standing there watching her..

Angel/Hope: ....Can you guys.. not watch me in a bathtub..

The others seemed to snap out of their stupor and quickly averted their gazes, realizing they had been staring at Angel/Hope in the bathtub for a little too long. They each mumbled apologies and excuses, embarrassed by their own behavior.

Poppy: “Sorry sorry, we didn't mean to stare.. we were just so relieved to see you're alright that we forgot ourselves for a moment...”

Mommy longlegs: “O-Of course, we'll give you some privacy now... sorry again, dear.”

Dogday was the last to look away, his face still flushed with embarrassment and a hint of lingering attraction. He reluctantly tore his gaze away from her and averted his eyes.

Dogday: “Yeah.. right.. sorry, Angel. We'll leave you to your bath now.”

As the others started to leave the bathroom, Dogday couldn't help but take one last, quick peek at Angel/Hope before he was suddenly pulled away by Mommy longlegs's spider arms.

Dogday(sheepishly): “Hey, let me go-“

He tried to wiggle out of Mommy longlegs's grip, but her spider arms were firmly holding him in place and physically preventing him from looking back.

Mommy longlegs: “No, bad Dogday, no looking at Angel or Hope while she's having her bath.”

Dogday pouted, feeling like a reprimanded child. He stopped resisting and let Mommy longlegs guide him away from the bathroom, feeling a bit frustrated that he couldn't get another glimpse of his beautiful wife.

Dogday: "Fine..."

—————————————————————————————————————————————————

Welp, that's it. Hope this doesn't flop, I've spend hours writing this hehe😅 Angel/Hope is my oc btw.

[whyareyoulookingatmelikethat]

bro the interactions between sprout and toon!reader must be insanee for reader after what happened in think fast. On that note since req are open may we get an aftermath of who picked up reader or a interaction witj normal sprout after the fic? The lore is actially making me go crazy. I need answers

If your still takings reqs of course. Have a good day!

This was interesting to think about! Reader definitely has some trauma, she won't be going on any other runs for a while.

If Twisted Sprout's on the floor though any times past "the incident", she'll have a panic attack and seek out the nearest twisted that isn't him so it can kill her, because she just can't face him, whether twisted or toon.

『Bearing Burden』

This is the second part tooooooooo...*drum roll* Story #16!

HELP THIS TURNED INTO MORE OF A POPPY X READER THAN A SPROUT X READER IM SORRY REQUESTER

…And then the galaxies faded away.

…

You awoke with a gasp, gripping at your chest and struggling for air.

…Right. Back here.

You breathed heavily, letting the cool sensation of air fill your lungs again. It was dark. Dark and eerie.

Of course, this was nothing new.

Only Qwel knows how many times you’d arrived here after what you thought could only be described as dying.

You felt a growing pit of despair in your stomach the more time you had to think about what just happened. Your ears rung as you shakily stood, and a massive headache suddenly struck you. You let out a groan.

…Guess all there really was was to just try again, either that or go insane. After all, you couldn’t talk with your companions forever. You’d run out of topics eventually.

Speaking of, where were they?

…Probably in the unfinished rooms section.

You sighed and walked to the left-most side of the room. You struggled with the door a little, but got it open eventually, and closed it behind you. The staircase was immediately encased in shadows. It was pitch-black.

It was kind of annoying in case there was anything you might accidentally step on and slip and fall and-

…Nevermind.

The railing was cold against your hand as you ascended the stairs, the occasional squeak of your hand sliding against the metal echoing through the shaft.

You pushed open the wooden door, nearly slipping, and it closed behind you with a loud thunk.

You squinted your eyes as you were immediately near blinded by the bright lights. Putting a hand in front of the direction of the light, you walked left again, turning around the “reception desk” littered with papers of all sorts. It would have had a hefty layer of dust on it if Tisha wasn’t so damn crazy about cleaning.

Your heart stopped.

“Hey Y/n! How’d it go?”

Your pupils shrunk.

“Y/n? You okay?”

Your breathing quickened.

“Hey, earth to Y/n!”

Your head pounded.

He tried to place a hand on your shoulder, but you jerked back. He stopped, confusion etched all over his face.

With shaky hands, you rushed away from the kitchen and knocked on the door to Poppy’s room.

Comeoncomeoncomeonopenrightnow!!

As soon as Poppy peeked open the door with a little “Hello? Who-” you squeezed yourself in and quickly shut the door behind you, shaking.

“Y/n?? Y/n what’s wrong?”

“Don’t let him in here. Please.”

Poppy’s eyes widened.

“Is there something wrong? Are you okay?”

You stayed silent. She let out a sigh, guiding you to sit on the bed and sitting beside you.

“What happened?”

Your face was pale and your expression cold and empty. You were the looking definition of hollow. It…honestly scared her a little.(Listening to Chaotic Bean Sim music “Day 5” while writing this LOLLL)

Poppy’s eyebrows furrowed, her expression one of nothing but concern.

“Twisteds…”

“Oh…” she sighed.

She raised her arms, holding them out to you.

“...Can I?”

You couldn’t speak, so you just nodded. And it was comforting. It was warm. It was everything you needed.

The tears began to drip, soaking into her pink dress, and after the first few, you couldn’t stop yourself from pouring out the rest.

Poppy had no idea what had happened, she had no idea what was currently tearing your mind and sanity apart. She had no idea who you were even talking about. But she stayed there. For you. Just for you.

[berrypass-de-murdler]

S-10, Big Corpse on Campus

These seasons are as short as Logico himself. But oh my GOD I love this book.

baron maroon sink.

(with matching towel!)

DON'T READ THE EPISODES WITHOUT READING THE BOOKS!!

Logico has a dream. He thinks about the love notes he’s received. “Always watching”... lots of eyes… a hundred candles… Suddenly, a figure approaches.

LOGICO: It’s you! FIGURE: I’ve been looking for you.  LOGICO: Where have you been? FIGURE: It’s going to be okay. For your next case, Chancellor Oak will be at home in his mansion.  LOGICO: …Thank you.

The figure slowly disappears, and Logico wakes up. He knows what he has to do, and waddles as fast as he can to see the Chancellor.

OAK: I got ‘im. TUSCANY: What? Who? OAK: The person behind all them murders… ‘twas this guy, Raspberry.  RASPBERRY: ‘AY, ‘AYYY! I AIN’T DID NOTHIN’!  LOGICO: Everyone quiet! My mother is right. There is a greater power behind these recent murders! 

Glaucous holds onto his wife. Judging by everything that’s been going on, this won’t end well. 

LOGICO: Now I know my mum has plans for taking over the school. TUSCANY: WHAT? LOGICO: But she cares for this school more than anything.  TUSCANY: Watch your language, young man.

Logico explains far and wide. He explains the motives of the three huge cats in the room, and the one sweaty dugong. 

LOGICO: Raspberry wants the chessboxing team to rise to victory, more than anything. RASPBERRY: W-Yeah, b- not THAT much!! LOGICO: And Chancellor Oak would stop at nothing to avoid admitting he was wrong. OAK: I dunno where yer gettin’ this info man… GLAUCOUS: I have to go.

He runs to the arboretum. Logico chases after him. Tuscany’s face scrunches in concern. Her dear husband wouldn’t do something this awful for his own gain… would he?

LOGICO: You can’t run from me! GLAUCOUS: I can’t take it… it’s too much stress…

The lion ducks behind a tree, slouches, and sobs. 

LOGICO: Poppy… GLAUCOUS: I’m sorry, Logico… you shouldn’t be caught in this mess… LOGICO: Poppy, you’re not the culprit! GLAUCOUS: I know. But I can’t help but feel like a problem. This is an incredible burden for you, and you’ve only just begun.

Logico hugs him.

LOGICO: I’m choosing this. And I’ll be alright. ...I’m not alone.

They walk back.

LOGICO: It’s Chancellor Oak that’s the problem.

Oak stands idly, like he didn’t even hear him. Then, he lets out the loudest, most obnoxious laugh possible.

OAK: Now, son, careful with ‘m wild accusations… yer my lil’ man, remember… I can make you a big shot… LOGICO: No, Oak. You CLEARLY have set up this Chancellor’s Foundation as an excuse to manipulate me for some greater purpose. OAK: ‘N… how’d’you know that.

Logico takes a deep breath. He knows for a fact this man is behind everything - but how will he justify it?

LOGICO: Today, I saw that the Chancellor’s Foundation did not include only me. OAK: Yeah, dumbass… yer not the main char’cter in life… LOGICO: And do you know who ELSE was part of it?!

He smacks the list down. Rulean, Indigo, Pine, Gold, Celadon, and Coffee. And do you know what they all have in common?

OAK: …m’kay… but that don’t prove nothin’. Y’all ‘r just assumin’ shit jus’ cuz’ coincidences n’ shit. Fer some kinda logic, yer like… I could give ya like… twenty reasons why that’s a hunk’a bullshit.

Tuscany grimaces. She knows Logico is right, but also knows there’s nothing he can actually do about it.

VOICE: Then do it! OAK: uh… pard’n? VOICE: Prove he’s wrong. Prove that it’s all bullshit. Prove there’s no connection between the list and the murders! OAK: uh… [mumble] fuckin’ Garnet n’ shit… yeah maybe.

Everyone roars. Busted! 

TUSCANY: I don’t know who the hell put you in charge. Come on, Logico, we have to discuss some changes in the staff. 

Logico is so proud of himself, and leans against her. He then looks back at Glaucous and Raspberry, discussing excitedly. Or rather, he looks past them. And he does a little wave. Maybe someone would notice the little wave.

The end! 

mysteryboy: "I'M WATCHING YOU."

logico: l❤️ve n0tes!?

The power of Goat Lord compels you!

See you next time murdlers!

[scamanderishredmayniac]

Snapetober 2024! Day 1: Warmth!!

For @superfallingstars Snapetober 2024 prompt for day 1, warmth. This is an AU where Snape has somehow miraculously survived Nagini’s bite.

Severus is aware of movement as he hears long strident footsteps approaching his hospital bed. He knows it’s not Potter, who often tries to muffle his steps in order nodt to disturb his sleep. The only other person visiting would be Minerva, who had been coming daily to check on him no doubt to his irritation. Severus opened his eyes and faced the tall looming figure of Minerva standing by his bed, just as she made to sit down.

“Evening Severus.” She bristled, sitting down on the hard chair by his bed, and pulling out the Daily Prophet newspaper to read. She’d be fool to think any conversation with Severus would be forthcoming. Severus gave no reply but watched her open the paper and flick the pages to where she wanted, and began to read without further comment. Severus watched her for a minute or two, it was always the same routine when she payed a visit. She would greet him, and then open the paper to read in silence.

“Why, did you save me?” He finally asked hesitantly, unsure weather he wanted to know the answer at all.

“Why?” Minerva frowned snapping the paper shut and folding it away, before finally facing him. “Well it was, it was Potter really, I mean Harry had wanted us to go attend to your body, wanted you to have a proper burial and be buried with the other Order members. He told me he would explain once I’d found someone to collect your body. He thought you were dead.” Minerva sighed and rubbed her face, no longer looking at him. She couldn’t face him he noticed whilemi giving her explanation. He knew she hadn’t finished, there was more, he would wait for her to continue when she was ready.

“When I heard you had been bitten, that you had died, I had to see for myself. I gathered a few people and went to the shack with Harry in tow. I didn’t believe him, I didn’t want to believe him. But then when we saw you lying there as Harry had said you would be, I thought, we all thought you were dead. What other explanation was there. But I still wanted to see you up close, before they took you away. Harry and I went closer, he stood by me as I bent down to, I don’t know Severus, to say goodbye. But then as got closer I saw it, just a tiny movement of the chest, rising and falling. So small and soft, one wouldn’t have been able to see it without looking closely. I checked your pulse, it was there, slow and weak, you didn’t have much time, I knew that much at least. I decided to levitate you myself and decided I would take you to the hospital wing, I needed to hurry, time was short. Without waiting for anyone else I began to levitate you and walk quickly away with everyone running after me, as I explained that you were indeed still alive.” Minerva looked to the window opposite his bed in thought, as the memories flooded her mind.

“I knew I had to save you, that I had to do something. I called Poppy and told her to work quickly and swiftly, as we didn’t have much time left. Poppy worked fast to remove the poison, and miraculously somehow was able to reverse any damage to your organs. I was so grateful that we had succeeded. I lost one dear friend Severus, I couldn’t save Dumbledore, but I had a chance to save you. I couldn’t bare losing another one of my dearest friends Severus, I couldn’t bare it if I were to lose you too.” Tears began to slide down her face as she finished her tail.

“What do you mean Minerva, how could you still call me a friend after what I did? I’m the reason you lost your very oldest and very best friend.” Severus choked out with a frown.

“Harry explained everything while Poppy worked to remove the poison, what you did, what Dumbledore asked of you Severus. I know all about that, how Dumbledore died and why it had to be your hand. You did a brave thing Severus. Dumbledore may have been my oldest friend, but best friend? I have many a friend and acquaintances Severus, but I had two very best friends who held a special place in my heart. Yes one of them was Albus Dumbledore, and the other was you. Who else would I ever compete with over the house cup.” She smiled at Severus with fond smiling eyes. “It’s as I said Severus I could not bare to lose you after losing Dumbledore. With the both of you gone, I would have nothing to live for, except the students and this school. But I would have no one else to compete with or banter with, or have scorn me for ruining their day. That is should you still want to stay here at Hogwarts of course, after all you are free to leave and pursue other options if you wished. Your duty to Dumbledore and the school has expired. It’s up to you.” Minerva hesitated watching Snape now for any indication of his thoughts.

“But here at Hogwarts you do know that, you will always have a place to call home, and friends who will be there for you. I will always be here Severus always.”

As McGonagall’s words washed over him, Severus felt a strange feeling take a hold of him. He felt a warmth like he hadn’t felt before, something good and wonderful filling his insides.

“I’m glad I have a friend in you Mini,” Severus whispered using the nickname he’d often used when they were alone, “and as am I to you and I will always be there for you too. I would love to return to Hogwarts, only to beat you for a few more years yet in the house cups of course.” Severus smiled, and for the first time in as long time, the two friends began to laugh like old time, as thought time had not passed between them.

When Minerva finally left the hospital wing, Severus found that warm feeling was still there, stirring and floating within his heart. For the first time in his life, he felt he truly belonged. That he had true and real friends who cared for him, something he’d longed since his childhood. To be loved and wanted, and be surrounded by people he could count on. Severus closed his eyes and savoured that warm feeling and stayed that way for a long time. For the first time in a long time. Severus Snape was happy.

_____________________________________________________________________

Oops! That wasn’t supposed to turn into a little ficlet, it was just suppose to be a short dialogue thing. But my thoughts and fingers carried me away. I hope you enjoyed that and like my picture. I think day 4 might be a little darker. I’ve got a horrible angsty idea for that one, possibly based on Natalie Embruglia’s song torn. But may change my mind. We’ll see. Not sure why I’m thinking ahead when I haven’t even thought of day 2 yet. Eek!! Also I’m doing inktober as well, so these may come a little slowly and may continue after the moth has finished. I’ll do my best.

Ps. It’s not edited so there may be a few mistakes here and there. Sorry about that.

[beebooboo6]

I couldn't stop thinking about how Poppy and Octavia would interact with Highwing and Caligo's baby 😭

Octavia watched as her girlfriend rolled up the sleeves of her cream colored blouse as she prepared to help with the beast of the vivarium. She always loved seeing Poppy's smile as she worked in the environment she loved most. She could see how the beast brought her comfort, which in turn brought Octavia comfort in seeing her that way. "Do you think you know who is awake?" Octavia asked stepping closer to the shorter girl. Poppy smiled at her, her honey colored eyes shining in the sunlight "I hope so," she responded walking alongside Octavia to the pens.

Caligo was already out and about grooming his feathers and observing his surroundings. He watched as the two stepped through the gate. "Hey buddy," Octavia greeted reaching out a hand to pet him. He met her halfway as his beak met her hand, he seemed to enjoy it without the glove a lot better. Octavia smiled as she turned to where Highwing rested. She approached with Poppy following behind her, Octavia could feel her anticipation from where she stood. "Morning Highwing, where is-" before she could finish her sentence a great force crashed into her knocking her to the ground with a thud. She groaned as the air was knocked out of her lungs by the sudden hit. A chirp brought her back to reality as her eyes slowly peeked open. Above her stood Lightning, the young hippogriff who had been in her care for almost a month. His bright eyes stared down at her with glee as another happy chirp escaped his small, black beak.

Octavia sighed as she sat up "Goodmorning to you too, Lightning," she said petting the soft clump of gray feathers on his head. He let out a coo as his back hoof, white just like his mother's, stomped against the dirt before running off and circling around the pen excitedly. Poppy took the opportunity to rush to Octavia's side. Kneeling down her eyebrows furrowed with worry "are you alright? That was quite the fall," she asked, her honey colored eyes scanning her girlfriend. Octavia smiled "I'm fine, just my pride that's a little bruised," she joked taking Poppy's hand when she offered it and rising back to her feet. "Barely started the day and he's already made a mess of you," Poppy said with a light smile that made Octavia feel like she would fall over again with how light she felt. Octavia gave her a chuckle "this isn't the worst of it," Octavia said recalling a time she tried to bathe the young hippogriff, only for him to get soapy water all over her.

Lightning was a rambunctious young thing, always looking for something to do and new things to see, smell, and possibly eat if he thought it might be tasty. Octavia recalled the day he hatched, it was a sight to see. She'd never seen the birth of any beast before, so the experience was very new. Poppy had instructed her on what to do of course. Hang back at a nice distance to give the parents space and to stay quiet, clearly this wasn't her first time. They had watched Lightning break and wiggle his way out of his egg from behind the fence as Caligo and Highwing watched over him and kept him close as the newborn hippogriff bonded with his mother and father.

Lightning got his name after the two witches realized just how fast he learned things. He was rather quick with learning to walk according to Poppy, and not to mention he was quite the speedster. Octavia has lost track of the times he's nearly escaped by running full speed towards the vivariums exit whenever she looked away for more than a few seconds. He was quick and took up all the attention wherever he went, just like a lightning strike.

Octavia watched with Poppy as Lightning nudged against Caligo and chirped at him, which earned him a nudge of acknowledgment from his father before the older hippogriff returned to his preening. "How can something so small carry so much energy?" Octavia asked as she dusted off the dirt from her shirt. Poppy hummed "he is a baby, they carry more energy than they know what to do with," she replied. "Then I guess Caligo and Highwing are happy to have us," Octavia said with a smile. Poppy nodded "I'm sure they are," she said before Lightning circled back over and stopped infront of her. He chirped and cooed at her nudging into her skirt as he did so. The hufflepuff grinned and leaned down a bit "hi there, oh did you miss me? Well, I missed you too," she said sweetly as she scratched his head affectionately, which he seemed to appreciate a lot.

Octavia watched her with an adoring smiled tugging at her lips. She felt honored to be able to see Poppy this way, compassionate, patient, kind, perfect Poppy Sweeting. She loved watching Poppy relax and be in her element like this. Poppy was always kind with others, but she still had that shyness to her, that fear of rejection from years of others undermining her, seeing her as peculiar and odd. Octavia could never understand how someone could find Poppy peculiar, she was never peculiar- only perfect. She was so many things to Octavia, passionate, brave, loyal, and understanding. Sometimes she felt she didn't deserve Poppy's kindness, but the hufflepuff never missed an opportunity to make her feel special.

The shorter girl seemed to have been able to feel her stare since she turned her head to meet the slytherin's gaze. "What?" She asked softly with a smile that made Octavia's cheeks flare. She cleared her throat slightly her green eyes glancing away from her girlfriends gaze. Despite their courtship and ever growing relationship she still found it difficult to maintain eye contact with the hufflepuff without breaking into a nervous sweat. "N- nothing, I- I just-" she stammered, she hated when her stutter broke through like this. It made her feel silly, but Poppy, ever patient Poppy, never made her feel bad about it. She just smiled encouragingly waiting for the taller girl to find her words. "I just- you, you look very pretty," Octavia's voice grew quieter as she uttered the last part, but Poppy could just barely hear the compliment.

Her freckled cheeks grew a deeper shade of red as she smiled more. "Thank you Via, you're pretty too, beautiful in fact," Poppy added. Octavia could feel she was an embarrassingly deep shade of red. She kept her gaze glued to a random patch of grass in the dirt as she nodded. Before either of them could say anything else Octavia let out a surprised gasp when that familiar force barreled into her once more. Lightning had knocked her down once more. He nudged his little beak against her sides and the croock of her neck, clearly he didn't appreciate the attention not being on him. Octavia laughed, she wondered if a secret talent of hippogriffs was knowing where someone's ticklish spots were, or if Lightning has just gotten lucky and just so happened to nudge against her most ticklish spots. Poppy couldn't help but laugh as she tried to shoo Lightning off her girlfriend. "Lightning! Lightning that's enough leave her alone," Poppy scolded lightly. Lightning back up a bit letting Octavia catch her breath from her laughing fit. Poppy grinned down at her "seems you are losing this little battle you two have going on," she teased. Octavia smiled once more, thankfully because she wanted to and not because she was getting overpowered by a baby hippogriff. "I'll get him back, just you wait," she promised as she sat back up mourning her once again dirty shirt (which would probably never be clean again).

Poppy smiled softly as she reached out tucking some of Octavia's black hair back behind her ear where it belonged. "I'm sure you will," she replied as she planted a gentle kiss on Octavia's cheek close to the corner of her lips. The slytherin felt a rush of warmth and that familiar fuzzy feeling she got around Poppy rush through her. The hufflepuff had been the one to initiate their first kiss, and she had been the one to initiate most of their kisses. It wasn't like Octavia didn't want to kiss her, but it was more her anxieties were holding her back from doing so. Her mind kept planting the idea in her head that she would mess up and turn Poppy away for one reason or another, but the way Poppy was looking at her now made those anxieties melt away. Before her brain could register the actions her body was taking she leaned forward planting a kiss on the hufflepuff's lips. Poppy's eyes widened slightly a bit surprised but fluttered closed as she relished the brief but loving gesture.

Octavia pulled away her face as red a dragon's flame, and probably as hot as one as well. The silence that fell upon them made those anxieties start to rise back up once more as the slytherins nailed dug into her trousers. She was a bit taken aback when Poppy started to giggle. There was no malice or condescension behind it, just pure softness. It was infectious as Octavia couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle of her own. It was so easy to feel this way with Poppy Sweeting. Lightning tilted his head at them probably wondering they were laughing about. He nudged into Poppy and she let him stay there as she scratched his head. There really was nothing peculiar about Poppy, she was perfect.

[kittyball23]

Setting the Mood (a Trolls fanfic)

Summary: Branch and Poppy have a talk while the gang takes a short break from their road trip

__________________________________________

Branch didn’t need to be told twice.

As soon as a “Take five!” was called out by Tiny Diamond in order to run a check on the caterbus before they went any further, the blue Troll was off, scaling the nearest tree and settling himself on the highest branch. Up there, above everything, he could see far out. From behind him was all the land that they’d covered on their journey so far, and in front of him, all the land that they had yet to cover in order to complete their mission.

Branch was unable to suppress the groan that escaped him as he rubbed at his eyes. The trip itself was not anything too crazy. They didn’t have to be as weary as they had been when he Poppy and the Snack Pack had to hide from Troll-hungry Bergens atop Bridget’s hair. And they did not have any bounty hunters after them, at the ready to steal their music or turn them into Rock zombies. But somehow, the trip was far more exhausting than those combined. Everything just felt like it was happening too fast. He hadn’t seen his brothers in years and now, all of a sudden, they were coming back into his life in the blink of an eye, not even allowing his brain to catch up with it all. The best analogy he could describe it as would be being unwillingly thrown right into a cold pool versus being able to dip a toe and slowly get accustomed to the temperature of the water. Some Trolls could tolerate it, sure, but Branch? He was not one of them.

Definitely not one of them.

What Branch needed was hours upon hours, like he had in his grey days alone in the bunker, so that he could properly ponder this conundrum he found himself in. But this, unfortunately, was time that Branch did not have. All he had to work with was a measly five minutes before he was thrust back into his reality. Well, at least it was something. And so long as those five minutes were not interrupted…

CRACK!

Branch sighed. Too late for that, he supposed.

He turned begrudgingly at the sound of the twig snapping, wondering which hair color he was going to see and the brother attached to it. He was taken off his guard though when that color turned out to be the pink of his girlfriend. Poppy smiled, a little sheepishly he noted, and began to hesitate in approaching him, likely noting how tense he had been.

“Hey,” she said softly. “I’m sorry if I intruded or anything…”

Branch gave her a small smile and shook his head. “No, no, Poppy! You’re good.” To further ensure her, he waved his hand for her to come, patting the place next to him. This time, Poppy did not hesitate, and she quickly made her way over, sidling up next to her boyfriend. Her company instantly eased him some, and he let out a small breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding in.

“You okay?” Poppy asked, looking at him.

Branch glanced at her, eyebrow raised. “Do you want a gray-Branch answer, or a blue-Branch answer?”

“Neither,” she said. “Just whatever is your honest answer.”

Branch shrugged. “Okay then. In that case… no.”

Poppy sighed. She expected this, given the eyerolls and scoffs he’d done so far each time he’d reunited with a brother again. Poppy allowed a little silence between them before she spoke again. “I know it’s been hard,” she started, tentatively, “but you know… they’re not all that bad.”

Branch laughed dryly. “Yeah, well, you didn’t live with them.”

Poppy considered this, and after a moment, grinned a little. “You’re right. I didn’t live with them.” She scooted a little closer and nudged him. “So why don’t you tell me something about them, hmm? What’s one thing that you remember?... A good thing?” She added the last part in when he gave her a look, that indicated the obvious they-walked-out-on-me-and-never-came-back grudge he held.

Branch scoffed and crossed his arms, the beginnings of a pout making his way onto his features. “Nothing,” he mumbled despondently.

“Come on, Branch," Poppy urged. "One memory has to be good. You don't have to tell me everything. Just one thing.” Poppy glanced pleadingly at him, her eyes big, her hands tucked under her chin.

Branch sighed. How could he resist? “There was this… one time…”

The Troll had to stifle a chuckle at how immediately his girlfriend’s face brightened, eager to listen to him. “Yeah? What happened?” she asked, barely looking as though she could keep still. She vouched to instead expend her energy in swinging her legs back and forth from their perch.

Branch went on with his story, a little monotonous. “Clay went into Floyd’s things and switched out his black eyeliner with neon green. Floyd got so mad, he started crying. His tears were all green, looked like someone drew with a highlighter on his face.” Branch shrugged. “I guess it was kinda funny.”

“Kind of?” Poppy exclaimed. “That sounds hilarious!” She giggled a little, the sound turning into full laughter when she pictured the scene playing out.

Branch raised an eyebrow at her, wondering how she was able to find the story amusing despite his lack of enthusiasm in telling it, but he couldn’t help giving his own small chuckle, recalling the incident and how it had happened. “Yeah… Floyd got back at him, though. With my help. We took the dye from the liner and put it into Clay’s shampoo. He had green hair for a week before he was able to finally have it wash out.”

Poppy laughed some more, prompting Branch to laugh along with her. “Clay rolled with it, but he did learn that ‘a prankster never reveals his tricks.’” The Troll shrugged. “Guess he doesn’t mind the green ‘do now, though.” His gaze trailed down below them to where Clay, Spruce, and John Dory were all involved in conversation. They seemed to be hitting it off quite well, smiles and laughs on their faces. Branch’s expression changed the longer he watched, from a lighthearted smirk to a darkened grimace, almost wistful in its appearance. “Nothing changes what they did,” he muttered bitterly, more to himself than to Poppy.

Poppy felt her heart ache for her boyfriend, and she gently took his hand, weaving their fingers together. “It doesn’t have to,” she whispered, “but that doesn’t mean there can’t be better future for you guys.”

Branch snorted. “That’s easy for you to say. You didn’t actually go through what I went through.”

“I know,” Poppy said, peering down. There was a limit to how much she could understand the experiences he underwent. Her life had been nearly a polar opposite of his. But, when she looked back up at him, though, there was a hint of a sparkle in her eye. “But I’m here to help you through it all now.”

She shifted so that she could take his other free hand with hers, holding both and rubbing her thumb over his knuckles.

Branch felt warmth spread through him, amazed once again at his girlfriend and the sincerity that she exemplified. How did he get so lucky to get someone who cared so deeply about him? He sighed, more in relief this time. “Thanks, Poppy,” he whispered back, his voice quivering slightly with the emotion that overcame him. “I, uh – Thank you.” He wanted to say more, wanted to tell her how wonderful she was, but found that he couldn’t formulate the words.

Branch anticipated a simple, chirpy “you’re welcome!” or “not a problem!” from her, but was further pleased when she smiled sweetly at him and batted her lashes. “I love you, Branchifer,” she said softly, blushing as she did and using that silly little nickname she’d come up with once.

“I love you too, Poppifer,” he replied playfully, also feeling his cheeks grow hot. They started to fall into a comfortable silence, until…

“Ohhh, hmmm, mmm…

You're all I ever wanted,

You're all I ever needed, yeah,

So tell me what to do now,

'Cause I, I, I, I, I, I want you back…”

Branch blinked. “What the…?” He peered around, trying to find the source of the sudden romantic singing and was baffled to find that his brothers had made their way up the tree and were now sitting together on a branch not too far away from them. Clay smirked at him. Spruce gave him a suggestive waggle of his eyebrows. John Dory flashed him a smile and gave a thumbs up.

“We gotcha covered, little bro!” he assured.

Branch frowned. He didn’t know whose idea this was, but it was NOT faring well with him. He didn’t need help in his relationship! “You’ve GOT to be KIDDING M – “

“Branch.”

The Troll turned back to Poppy when she called for him. The Pop Queen didn’t seem bothered. She in fact didn’t seem to mind the music at all. Her focus was not centered on it, but, on him. Her beautiful, fuchsia eyes glimmered with affection, flicking with implication from his eyes to his lips. He could feel himself leaning forward involuntarily towards her, trapped under the spell of the moment. Pretty soon, Branch himself started to not even care about the background music. If anything, should he admit it to himself, it was helping set the mood. And while he would’ve preferred not to kiss Poppy in front of his brothers – the Trolls not needing to be privy to such matters – he would not skip out on the opportunity. The serenading continued, and the space between them started closing ever so slowly.

“You're the one I want,

You're the one I need,

Girl, what can I do?

You're the one I want,

You're the one I need,

Tell me what can I do…

You're all I ever wanted,

You're all I ever needed,

So tell me what to do now,

When I want you b – “

BEEEEEEEEEP!!

A loud, long, rather unexpected and ill-timed honk blared from down below, having come from the caterbus. Tiny Diamond, who had remained unaware of the happenings in the tree above him, called out cheerily from the driver’s seat and spoke into the amplifier.

“Branch, Poppy, and the three random dudes, get yourself over back over here! We’ve gotta get our Hustle back on!”

As soon as the sound of the horn had resounded, the brothers’ song had cut off with a yelping cry from each. Poppy and Branch, who were merely less than a fraction away from allowing their lips to even just timidly brush against each other’s, jolted back in surprise, a gasp escaping the pair, soon followed by a mild embarrassment. Another kiss foiled once again, leaving room for awkwardness to creep into the atmosphere.

“W-we, umm…” Branch started, fumbling for words.

“… Should probably head back,” Poppy finished, avoiding looking at him completely and instead fixing her attention anywhere else. The two Trolls then proceeded to scramble back down the tree and beelined it right for the caterbus.

But while Poppy and Branch were feeling awkward, it was an entirely different combination of feelings from the brothers. John Dory, Spruce, and Clay made their way down the tree as well, hanging back for a second as they watched the pink and blue Trolls.

Clay frowned. “Hey, what’s the name that little guy that’s been driving us around?”

“Tiny Diamond,” John Dory answered.

“Tiny Diamond,” Clay repeated to himself, “Yeah, remind me to prank him later. He just ruined everything!”

“Well, we didn’t exactly tell him what we were up to,” JD reasoned, recalling how they had simply made their plan on the fly.

“A kiss woulda been an added bonus,” Spruce said, “but, honestly, I was waitin’ for Branch to pop the rock on her finger!”

Clay gasped. “It’s too soon for that though, isn’t it? What about baby steps?”

Spruce blew a raspberry. “Um, who’s the romance expert here, guys? Hmm?” He gestured to himself in an obvious manner. “ME. Branch took his ‘baby steps’ about two decades ago… when he was in diapers. Now isn’t the time to delay anything. It’s time for the real deal.”

JD nodded, considering this. “You’re right, bro. We all know Branch wants this, and so does his girl!”

Clay shrugged. “I guess it is what it is for now,” he said, knowing that there would at some point be another chance to give their brother the push he so needed. But first…

A sly smile grew on the lime green-haired Troll’s face as his gaze honed in on the small glittered Trolling at the driver’s seat of the caterbus. “Now, about that prank,” he said, rubbing his hands together in a mischievous way…

__________________________________________

A/N: I'm thinking there will be several Broppy almost-kisses scattered throughout the movie ;)

[blueraineshadows]

Brothers Part Three

Garreth Weasley 🔺️ F!MC 🔺️Oscar Weasley

A love rivalry between two Weasley brothers.

NSFW 🔞 Chapter Master List

Chapter Three - A Flurry of Weasley's

The peaceful quiet of the library was soothing, and MC had taken a quiet corner for herself, study books open but untouched as she poured over today's magical symbol puzzle in the Daily Prophet. It was a running competition between her and Sebastian over who could solve them the quickest. She hadn't seen him yet today and wanted to make sure she had solved it before he did. The first one had been easy, but she was stumped on the second one. She was sure she had seen it somewhere before, and annoyingly, she was sure she had been with Sebastian when she had. However, she was not about to give him the satisfaction of running to him and asking. She could do this.

As she racked her brains over the symbol, she got to her feet and moved to study the shelf of books in the alcove behind her, her fingers trailing along the spines as she hunted out the books she had in mind. Ancient Castles of England, Ireland, and Scotland might be useful, and she slipped the book free of the shelf. Her eyes returned to the volumes to seek out a book about Highland history, most notably the old Clan castles and ruins in this area. When she had been exploring last year, scoping out sites for her ancient magic, her and Sebastian had pored over books such as these trying to decipher the strange symbols they came across in the various tombs and caves they had found. She was sure the symbol was going to be in one of these books.

As she spotted a book she wanted high above her, MC went up on tiptoe, reaching up to try and tease the book free from the shelf. She had left her wand on the table with her study books and grit her teeth in annoyance. With a sigh, she turned to go and fetch it, pausing in her step as her eyes met with those of Oscar Weasley as he walked across the library, hands in his pockets. His lips tilted up into a smile when he saw her, and he diverted his path immediately to come and join her. Her heart began to pound, and she clutched the book she was holding to her chest, her eyes locked with his so that she had to tilt her head back as he moved ever closer.

"Hello, MC," he said softly. Gods, his eyes were so pretty. One look at them and her brain was melting, her thoughts sliding until there was only him. Everything else that was sensible was thrown out.

"Hi," she said.

As they stood there looking at each other, her traitorous brain immediately drifted to the saucy book that Poppy had thrust into her hands the other night. MC had not expected the book to be of any interest, but when she had begun to read, she had never flipped the pages of a novel so fast. Her eyes had devoured the words, her cheeks growing hotter and hotter as corsets were busted open and men reduced women to flustered, panting messes on silken sheets. It had been easy to picture Oscar as the hero of the story as she read after the tingles he had inspired on her skin whilst on that broom. Her physical reaction to Oscar was becoming more and more a thing as she read on, the actions of the characters in this raunchy story making her body burn and ache in ways that made her wriggle uncomfortably under her blankets . Standing here before Oscar now, her cheeks flooded with colour, and words had dried up in her throat. Her pathetic little 'Hi' made her want to cringe.

"Studying, or a little light reading?" He asked.

MC gaped at him, her mind still in the gutter, wondering how in Merlin's name he could possibly know that she was thinking about saucy books. Then he raised an eyebrow and pointed to the book in her arms. She glanced down.

"Oh! This?" She chuckled. "I erm...well, I'm trying to solve the magical symbol puzzle in the Daily Prophet, and I thought this might help."

"I see," he said. He reached out and plucked the book from her hands, turning it over to read the title. "Would you like some help?"

Not asking Sebastian for help had been a matter of pride, but Oscar? Would that be so bad? Her eyes drifted up to the book that she had been trying to reach just now, and she bit her lip. "How about fetching Highland Castles and Clans for me? Can you reach?"

He smirked and stepped even closer towards her, his cologne swirling around her as he reached up, his fingers teasing the book free easily from the shelf. He held it out towards her but didn't step back. MC put her hand on the book and tugged, but he didn't let go. Her eyes lifted to his in confusion, meeting with a gaze that was twinkling with mischief. "How about a trade?"

"What kind of trade?" She asked suspiciously. She held onto the book still, her tummy flipping madly at the way he was looking at her.

"What's it worth?" He whispered.

MC felt something like excitement flutter in her tummy. Her chest felt hot and tight at the suggestive undertone to that whisper. She had to force that little flutter down, well aware that this was a dangerous game. She narrowed her eyes a little. "Are you teasing me, Oscar Weasley?"

"And what if I am?"

She drew in a quick breath and tugged at the book again, but he still didn't let go, his gaze dropping to her mouth before travelling slowly back up to her eyes. Oh, he was definitely teasing her, and it was working. She could feel the ache building within her, and with his close proximity, it was almost too much. Her lungs didn't seem capable of drawing in enough air to sustain her, and she was getting a little dizzy.

It was too much, too real, and she felt a squeeze of panic. Her fingers let go of the book, and she stepped back from him, her eyes dancing away as she headed back towards her table, trying to catch her breath. She was letting him distract her, and that wouldn't do.

She picked up the newspaper and studied the symbol again, trying to focus on that instead of the keen awareness of Oscar behind her. He shifted, his footsteps moving closer, and then he leaned over her shoulder, his arm coming around to place the book on the table in front of her. Her lips twitched in amusement at his boldness but also at his apparent loss of interest in a trade.

"You wouldn't make a very good trader if you cave so easily," she taunted. Then she bit her lip. She shouldn't encourage him, but she just couldn't seem to help herself whenever he was close.

"I blame you and those bewitching eyes of yours," he whispered. He spoke near her ear, and the memory of his lips grazing there made her shiver.

"You're lucky I'm not hexing you for distracting me from my symbol solving."

He moved to lean his hips against the table beside her, folding his arms as he smiled. "So, I distract you, do I?"

She made the mistake of looking at him, that ridiculously handsome smirk not helping with her efforts to cool down. "Poor choice of word," she said. "Perhaps annoying would suit?"

She put down the newspaper and opened the book, flipping hastily through the yellowed pages, searching for images and symbols. Oscar chuckled beside her, grabbing up the newspaper to take a look at the symbols.

"Hmm, the first one is fairly obvious," he mused. "The second one reminds me of those old stone puzzles scattered around the Highlands."

Realisation struck, and MC turned, swiping the newspaper back from him to take another look. "Of course, the Merlin trials! How could I forget? I've done countless of those things."

"You're welcome," he said smugly. "Fetching books and solving your puzzles for you, not to mention the flying tips. The favours are stacking up, MC. I might have to start collecting my returns."

"Consider the fact I haven't hexed you yet a favour," she smirked. "Now, if you really want to be useful, you can start looking through this book for clues on the third symbol."

MC picked up the book on castles and held it out to him. Oscar took the book with a little bow, his lips still sinfully smirking. "As the lady commands."

That was how Sebastian found them, noses buried in books as they looked for the symbol, Oscar somehow managing to tease smothered laughter from her lips as he regaled her with some of his more amusing Quidditch mishaps.

"You look like you are having far too much fun to be studying," Sebastian drawled. He approached their table with a curious gaze towards Oscar. He peered over at the newspaper on the table before her and his eyebrow lifted. "Ah, yes, the magical symbol puzzle. Have you solved it yet?"

MC's shoulders slumped, and she gave Sebastian a knowing look. "Don't tell me. You have already cracked it."

His smug smile said it all. His gaze flicked towards Oscar. "I see you've had help, though," he said. "I didn't take you for a puzzle solver, Weasley."

Oscar smirked and shrugged. "MC asked for my help, and it would have been rude of me to refuse the lady's request."

Sebastian hummed deeply. "As equally rude to decline your assistance in flying her broom, no doubt."

Oscar's eyes narrowed, and Sebastian stared him down, an awkward atmosphere evolving between the two lads. MC shifted in her seat and cleared her throat. "Oscar has indeed been most helpful, Seb," she said. "I only have the last symbol to solve."

"Do you think you can solve it in ten minutes?" Sebastian asked. "We have Defence Against the Dark Arts class to attend."

MC gasped, her eyes flying towards the clock. Had she really been here that long? She felt her cheeks warm up as she shared a look with Oscar. A distraction indeed. "My goodness!" She said. "We have been here longer than I thought."

Oscar smiled and stood. "Then I shall I leave you to it," he said. He gave her a warm smile, his blue eyes twinkling. "It's been a pleasure, MC, as always."

Sebastian's eyes glittered with suspicion as they followed Oscar, walking away across the library. MC knew it came from a place of protectiveness. It was in Sebastian's nature to be that way, and as they had grown closer, he had only increased in that manner towards her. At times, it could become overwhelming, and he needed a nudge, a gentle reminder that she was more than capable of looking after herself. But, it was also lovely to have a friend who cared so much for her. It was something all together new and welcome after growing up as just one in her orphanage.

MC began to hastily gather up her study books, hurrying to tidy and get moving for class. "You wouldn't mind giving me a hand with putting these away, would you?" She asked as she got to her feet.

Sebastian moved closer towards her, leaning forwards to sniff curiously at her hair. MC's eyes widened, and she looked up at him. "What in Merlin's name are you doing?"

His eyes sparked with mischief, the suspicion now gone, and teasing Sebastian was in full swing. "I was merely checking to see if you had changed your shampoo or something," he said. "For whatever reason, you seem to have a flurry of Weasley's around you lately. Why might that be?"

"Oh, don't be ridiculous," she scoffed. She thrust books into his arms whilst trying to maintain a look of innocence. If Sebastian got even the tiniest inkling of the saucy book she had read or the fact that she was entertaining saucy thoughts about Oscar Weasley, then his teasing would have no mercy. "It's nothing like that at all."

"No?" He grinned. He followed her along to the book shelf as they began to put them away. "First, it's Garreth pining over you in potions and inviting you out on romantic Highland walks. Then, it's Oscar with his fairly obvious attempt at flirting with you on a broomstick, and now he is sniffing around you in the library. I'm telling you, whatever it is about you, it's attracting Weasley's like flies."

"And why should that bother you so much, my dear Seb?" She teased. It would be smart to turn this back around onto him and take the focus away from her and Oscar. "Are you not equally surrounded by admirers? Crossed Wands starts again next week, I am sure your little fan club are making their support banners as we speak."

Sebastian puffed up his chest and gave her a lofty look, far too full of himself for his own good. "As they should," he said. "And as for you, have you forgotten that I promised to be a most faithful guide? As my charge, I feel it is my responsibility to ensure that no scoundrel takes advantage of my Hufflepuff. Therefore, I shall be keeping a sharp eye on both Mr Weasley's from now on."

MC giggled and tucked away her notes into her bag. "Your Hufflepuff? You do make me chuckle, Seb," she said. She took his arm. "Come on, escort me to class then, my noble protector. Whatever would I do without you?"

....*....

Saturday dawned as an overcast day with a brisk breeze that had the first pinch of autumn chill in the air. Garreth wrapped his well-worn Gryffindor scarf about his neck and double-checked his bag before setting off to meet MC.

The corridors were relatively peaceful, with students relaxing on their day off, the classrooms quiet and empty as Garreth passed them on his way to the Bell Tower entrance hall.

It was just a foraging trip. He had been on countless of them, but this one was making his tummy flutter and churn, his breakfast sitting heavy. This time, he was going with MC, and he felt pressure weighing him down, knowing that Oscar had his eye on her. Not only had it been the broom ride, it was their exchange of smiles in the Great Hall, and it was the hesitant questions MC had asked about Oscar during their last potions lesson. She was curious about his older brother, and it made Garreth's heart sink.

As he walked towards the huge double doors that led out of the castle, he paused in his step as he caught sight of MC standing waiting for him. She was wearing a long coat, trousers, and high boots. The knitted scarf around her neck was a traditional Hogwarts scarf in all the house colours. Her long hair was pinned up, soft strands framing her face as she lit up with a lovely smile when she saw him.

"There you are," she said brightly, skipping forwards.

Garreth hurried towards her, meeting her in the middle of the entrance hall, the urge to hug her swept over him but he held his arms rigid, one hand gripping tightly to the strap of his bag. "All ready to go?" He asked.

She nodded and moved to walk beside him as they headed for the double doors, Garreth rushing forward to open it first and gesturing for her to walk through. "Ladies first," he grinned.

She giggled and stepped through the door, snagging hold of his arm as she passed and tugging him through with her. "Come on, Sir Garreth," she teased. "You can escort me into the big, bad forest. I hope you brought your sword to protect me from all the nasty monsters in there."

Garreth felt his cheeks flame as she held his arm, but there was no way he was going to stop her. The fresh breeze teased at Garreth's hair, and it carried the scent of the last of the summer blooms in the flower beds. The low, dull cloud was blocking the sunlight, but he didn't mind. His spirits were high, and her teasing was filling the day with promise. He tried to be calm and collected as they walked arm and arm across the grounds, but his smile was so wide his cheeks were likely to start aching before long.

"It's more likely that you will be the one doing the protecting," he said wryly. "You're the one who defeats trolls and brings down dark wizards after all. I am nought but a humble potion brewer."

"Ah, I see, so this is why you invited me along," she teased, her eyes sparkling. "You just wanted a bodyguard."

Garreth held his hand up, a look of mock shame on his face. "It appears you have rumbled me, MC. Feel free to abandon my useless behind to the monsters if you so wish."

"As if I would," she said. She gave his arm a gentle squeeze. "Don't worry, Weasley. You're perfectly safe with me."

Garreth didn't doubt it. He had seen her in action in a classroom and could only imagine what she was like in a real battle, the thought intriguing and almost exciting.

The conversation flowed surprisingly easily as they walked the pathway out of the school grounds and along towards the entrance to the forest. The trees crowded around them, and soon, the dull light was reduced to gloom as they wandered along the track, collecting mushrooms and herbs as they went. The distant calls of beasts and the creaking of the trees limbs kept Garreth on alert, his eyes scanning through the gloom nervously. A quick glance to MC revealed her serenely gathering her ingredients, not a worry clouding her pretty eyes as she stepped carefully around tree roots.

"You seem at home here," he said.

She glanced over at him and huffed a laugh. "I wouldn't say that," she said. She gazed through the trees and sighed. "But, I have spent a fair amount of time in this forest. Perhaps I have grown used to it. I would be a fool to forget about its risks, though. It is all too easy to get lost or caught up in something dangerous."

Garreth pursed his lips in thought as he cut some Dittany leaves from a stem and placed them carefully in a muslin cloth.

"Were you ever frightened?" He asked. She paused and turned to look at him. "You know, when you had to fight against those dark wizards?"

Her eyes darkened for a moment, drifted somewhere far away, something almost sad flickering across her features. He almost regretted asking her the question, but his curiosity had been roused. She nodded.

"Of course," she said. "Just over a year ago, I was just a girl in an orphanage, and now I'm being heralded as some kind of hero for deeds that don't exactly feel heroic. It's strange. Sometimes, I feel like it's happening to somebody else. I've had to dig deep, and I've discovered things about myself that I would have never believed before coming here."

Garreth straightened, moving closer to where she stood beneath a huge, old twisted tree. "I don't know how you do it," he said, shaking his head. "You must be very brave defeating all those camps and dens of wizards."

"Or very stupid," she said with a wry smile. "I suppose in the moment I didn't really have time to think about it, and I wouldn't have been able to deal with half of it without Sebastian."

Garreth nodded slowly at the mention of their Slytherin classmate, his teeth worrying at his lower lip as he studied her. "You and him are close," he said. It wasn't a question. It was obvious to anyone who cared to look.

Her eyes became determined. "He's my best friend. I know everyone thinks there is more between us, but we are just friends. We have been through a lot together. He is the only one who truly understands, and I owe him a great deal."

Relief was a sweet and wonderful thing in Garreth's chest at her confirmation that she was not in love with Sebastian. However, there was clearly a very deep bond there, and only a fool would try to come between that. To hear the way she spoke about him, to see the shadows flicker in her eyes about events of last year, he could understand that bond. To think of her, small as she was, facing down the enemy and only recently coming into her magic, it made his heart twist painfully. The thought of her dealing with it all alone was horrifying.

It made him look at the arrogant Slytherin boy from a different angle. A boy he would mistrust before anything else, and yet Sebastian had taken MC under his wing and stood by her, and Garreth knew that Sebastian was not without his own troubles. It humbled Garreth, and he realised that envying Sebastian's closeness with MC was pointless. The Slytherin had clearly earned her friendship.

"Then I am glad you had Sebastian there by your side during those difficult times," he said. He bowed his head, his fingers fiddling nervously with the end of his scarf. "I hope I can be even half as good a friend to you as he is."

MC stared at him, a pink flush covering her face as she smiled. "I have no complaints so far," she said. Her smile twisted into something rather impish. "In fact, I'm very sure you will be wonderful. Sebastian may be my best friend, but he is also an insufferable pain in the backside at times, something you have yet to prove in yourself."

Garreth's grin was rueful. "Give me time, MC. I'll soon have you pulling your hair out, just like my siblings."

Her laugh seemed to chase the very shadows of the forest away, and Garreth realised he could get addicted to that sound.

....*....

When they emerged out from under the canopy of the dark forest, MC paused and looked up at the sky, blinking at the brightness as the clouds were slowly breaking up. Weak sunlight was trying to break through, and she smiled, lifting her hand to shield her eyes.

She turned as Garreth emerged, brushing stray leaves from his hair after getting caught up in a bush. She giggled and stepped forward, reaching up to tug a particularly stubborn leaf from his locks, the strands of which were soft under her fingertips. She realised that touching his hair was something rather intimate to do, and she was surprised at her own boldness. This close, she could almost count the array of freckles that covered his pale skin, and her eyes caught his, the shades of green seeming to shift with the changing daylight. The blush spreading up his face reached his hairline, and she shyly held up the leaf in explanation of the touch.

He made it easy to be in his company, and she appreciated the things he had said to her earlier regarding Sebastian. It was refreshing to have someone understand and respect her choices without looking for the ulterior motive.

Being this close to him, however, made her think of Oscar. It was only yesterday that Oscar had stood this close to her, looking at her with his teasing blue eyes and making her heart pound. There was no mistaking the family resemblance, and conflicting emotions rushed through her.

Feeling thoroughly confused, MC took a step back away from Garreth and let the leaf drop down to the ground. Shame made her cheeks colour up, and she turned to look around the area where they had come out of the forest in an attempt to straighten out her thoughts. They were quite a way from the castle now.

"What would you like to do?" She asked.

Garreth patted his stomach and licked his lips. "I'm hungry," he said.

She turned back to him, almost smiling at the simple statement that was such a stark comparison to the swirl of confusing thoughts rolling around in her brain. "Oh, did you want to head back to Hogwarts for lunch, then?"

His smile was one of almost smug pride as he patted the bag slung over his shoulder with a freckled hand. "We don't have to return to the castle for lunch," he said. "I may have taken the liberty of paying a visit to the house elves this morning before meeting you. They made us a pack up. We can have a picnic and then continue our explorations. What do you say?"

MC felt her mouth pop open in surprise. "Wow, you thought of everything didn't you?"

He lifted an eyebrow. "I always carry snacks," he said, as if that was obvious. "There's nothing worse than trying to do anything on an empty stomach, and unfortunately, mine seems to be always on the hunt for something to nibble on."

MC laughed and took his arm. "Well, thank Merlin for your bottomless stomach," she said. "I'm actually rather hungry myself! Let's find a spot, and you can show me what is in that bottomless bag of yours."

They found a spot near some standing stones that was sheltered from the breeze, and Garreth dropped his bag down onto the ground. MC gazed around, hand shielding her eyes, always watchful and aware after too many ambushes out in the wild.

"So, are we safe, my faithful bodyguard?" Garreth asked. MC smiled and turned, her eyes widening as she watched Garreth spread a blanket out on the grass. He knelt down and began to pull out parcels wrapped in muslin cloth, along with a bottle of pumpkin juice and a box that looked like it came from Honeydukes.

"My goodness," MC said. She moved closer and dropped down onto the blanket beside him. "This is... it looks amazing!"

He beamed at her and handed her two cups. "You pour the juice, and I will unwrap the sandwiches."

"You have gone to so much trouble," she said softly. She stared at everything on the blanket before them before lifting her gaze to look at Garreth. This was the Garreth that she had caught glimpses of in his letters during the summer, she thought fondly.

"When it comes to food, I don't mess about," he said. He handed her a sandwich filled with cheese and sliced tomatoes. "Come on, tuck in."

She did. As they ate and chatted, MC began to relax again, trying not to think too much about Oscar. When she had finished her food, she pulled her knees up, wrapping her arms about her legs, and she gazed out across the valley.

"I have definitely fallen in love with Scotland," she said. "It is utterly breathtaking. I found it hard to be back in London over the summer to tell the truth."

"Will you not go back to London when you graduate?"

MC gave him a surprised look. "We have some time yet before we have to decide that. Two years almost."

Garreth nodded. "It will come round soon enough, MC. I can't believe Oscar will be leaving this year. I will be the oldest Weasley child here then. Hector is here, and my sister, Millie, will be joining next September."

"What will Oscar be doing when he leaves?" MC picked at a loose thread on her trousers, trying to sound casual.

"You mean he hasn't told you?" Garreth asked. "That surprises me. He does like to brag, especially to girls."

MC felt her cheeks warm, disappointment making her brow crease. "No, he hasn't told me. Perhaps he doesn't think I need to know."

"Well, if you're interested, he has been offered a place on a Quidditch team," Garreth said. The sour look on his face suggested that he wasn't overly pleased about this news.

MC thought it was rather fantastic. She had never seen Oscar play, but she knew he was good on a broom, and the word around school seemed to suggest that he was very good as a Beater. MC was looking forward to this year's Quidditch games and seeing Oscar in action, but she didn't say that. Garreth didn't seem as enthusiastic about his brother's success.

"Mum and Dad were ecstatic when he got the letter. What with Nigellus working at the Ministry and Oscar on the cards for becoming a star Quidditch player, the pressure is on me now to be brilliant at something."

"What makes you think you won't be?" MC asked.

Garreth shrugged. "I can't imagine anything worse than being stuck at a desk all day, and as much as I love Quidditch, I'm not interested in playing professionally. I'm not sure what I will do."

MC didn't like the cloud of sadness that had drifted over his usually sunny features. She reached out to place her hand on his forearm briefly in an attempt to reassure him. "You still have time, Garreth," she said. She shrugged. "I'm not sure what I want to do yet either. Maybe I will figure it out by the time we graduate, maybe not. I have my shop in Hogsmeade to fall back on if need be."

"At least you have that," Garreth said. "The only thing that interests me is potions and the creativity behind it all. I'm not sure people take me seriously, though, especially when I have a tendency to blow things up."

His grin was sheepish, and MC chuckled. "Hey, at least you learn from those mistakes," she said. "You should have more confidence in yourself. That Fizzing Whizzbeer you made wasn't half bad, although the levitation part did get out of hand."

MC had found herself floating all the way up to the ceiling when she had tried his attempt at making the beer. After swiping the ingredients for him from Honeydukes, he honoured her with the first taste. It had been rather amusing as he had tried to get her back down on her feet. He had thought she was going to be mad, but they had laughed so hard her tummy had hurt. Even now, it brought a chuckle to her lips.

Garreth smothered his laugh with his hands, his green eyes twinkling with mischief. "I did manage to get you down in the end, though."

"You did," MC agreed, still laughing. Then she gave him a more serious look. "I meant what I said, though. It tasted good, a little tweak here and there, and I reckon you will have cracked it. You could design so many great drinks like that. Maybe that is your brilliance."

"You really think so?"

His look was so soft, so hopeful, it made her heart squeeze. She nodded. "I really do."

....*....

The sky was now mostly clear of clouds, the late afternoon sun pleasantly warm as it shone over the Quidditch pitch at Hogwarts. Oscar lay on his back on the grass, breathing hard and wiping the sweat from his brow after an energetic, friendly game. It felt so good to have Quidditch back, and with trials in a few days, he felt the old excitement in his stomach, the competitive streak in him raring to go.

Isaac Cooper appeared beside him, holding up a flask of juice. His black hair was equally sweaty, his face flushed from his exertions. "Drink, Weasley? I'd say you've earned one after that performance."

Oscar nodded and sat up, his shoulders aching from whacking Bludgers with his bat for the past couple of hours. He was going to feel it tomorrow. He took the offered flask and gulped down the cool juice greedily, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. He looked up at Isaac. "It's looking good for trials, isn't it?"

Isaac smirked and nodded. "We've got a good chance this year, I reckon," he said. "Slytherin is going to be the one to beat. Reyes is a determined minx, and she is out for blood now that we have got the go-ahead."

Oscar chuckled. "Keep working that Cooper charm on her, it worked getting her to team up on the petition for Black."

Isaac screwed his nose up. "Yeah, but there was something in it for her with that. When it comes to matches and the cup, this is war."

Oscar got to his feet and returned the flask to him. "Get her in the sack, then, that usually works a charm," Oscar winked.

Isaac laughed and shook his head. "I don't think she swings her bat in that direction, if you catch my drift. I tried, and she damn near ripped my head off."

Oscar laughed and clapped Oscar on the shoulder as they walked towards the changing room block. A group of 6th and 7th year girls who had come down to watch the friendly play this afternoon were loitering outside. Isaac perked up and gave Oscar a sly look. "Look lively, Weasley," he said. "Which pretty smile do you fancy? I quite like the look of the blonde Ravenclaw myself."

Oscar scanned the witches and didn't see MC amongst them. He did see Trixie McNair, however, and she was gazing his way, a little smirk on her pretty mouth. She was trouble that one, a stunner no doubt, but the most slippery of Slytherin snakes to ever get close to. Half the Quidditch boys had been there, himself included, and he swore never again, no matter how many time she gave him those fuck me eyes.

Oscar gave Isaac a half smile. "Knock yourself out, mate," he said. "I'm going for a shower."

Isaac stared at him. "Bloody hell, what's got into you? You're usually the first into the fray."

Oscar shrugged and broke away towards the changing block. Isaac shook his head in disbelief. "Tell me it's not the Hufflepuff hero?"

Oscar kept his thoughts to himself and paused to throw a grin at Isaac over his shoulder, not wanting to reveal anything about MC. She seemed like the kind of girl who wouldn't appreciate being the object of everyone's gossip. For once, Oscar actually cared what a girl thought about him, especially one who didn't hang around outside the changing rooms waiting for a boy to notice them. There was something about MC that had pulled him in, and he wasn't about to mess up his chances, especially with Garreth waiting in the wings.

He wondered how their little trip together had gone today and felt a tug in his guts that felt suspiciously like jealousy. He had never been jealous of Garreth before. It was new, and it was intriguing. He wondered how much fight Garreth actually had in him if it came down to it. He knew his brother had a hard fist on him if he was of a mind to throw it, but Oscar wasn't sure how possessive Garreth would get over a girl. Ladies had a way of getting under your skin and making you do dumb shit you wouldn't normally do.

"Wow, never thought I'd see the day Oscar Weasley lost his head over a girl," Isaac chuckled. "Hope she is worth it mate!"

"I will catch you later on," Oscar called back. His gaze drifted towards the group of girls and he lifted an eyebrow. "Don't do anything I wouldn't do."

Isaac grinned and made his way over to the blonde Ravenclaw, who was already smiling up at the Gryffindor captain. Oscar headed into the changing block, a small part of him wishing that MC had broken her habits and had been waiting for him instead of Trixie McNair.

The hot water felt good against his neck and shoulders, flowing down his back and easing muscles that were going to be stiff in the morning. Oscar rinsed the last of the soap from his hair and wiped his face, reaching out to turn the water off but pausing when he heard a noise behind him. He turned as a familiar black haired figure stepped into the stall behind him, her pouty mouth lifted into a playful smirk. She was completely naked, her hair loose about her shoulders. Trixie McNair.

"What the fuck?" He hissed.

"Hello, Oscar," Trixie said, her smirk widening.

Her dark eyes were glittering with intent as she slid her palm up his chest, stepping eagerly under the spray of water to press herself up against him. Oscar stepped back, shocked, trying to avoid the slippery brush of her wet skin against his, but she had her hands around his neck, her breasts pressed close against him as he sucked in a deep breath.

"Fuck," he gasped. He grabbed her waist, desperately trying to ignore the way her skin slid erotically against his and he pushed her backwards away from him. "No, stop!"

Trixie giggled, moving forward again, her hands smoothing over his shoulders. "That's not what you said last time," she taunted. She hummed appreciatively as she squeezed her hands down his arms. "You certainly filled out a lot more over summer, Oscar. I like it."

"Get out," Oscar said, frowning. He grappled with her arms, trying not to notice the way the shower water was running in rivulets over her skin, plastering her long, black hair over the swell of her breasts. "You shouldn't even be in here."

Trixie pouted at him and grabbed his hand, splaying it against one round, slippery breast. Her gaze was dark, sultry, and full of promise. She licked her lips slowly, and Oscar winced. He knew what those lips could do.

"Are you sure you want to kick me out?" She purred.

Oscar squeezed his eyes shut tight at the feel of that soft roundness under his palm, gritting his teeth against the blood that was rushing right to his cock. She was the ultimate temptress and he dug deep for resistance, yanking his hand free of her grip.

He thought of MC, her pretty eyes and the way she had smiled at him in the library, the way she had shivered at the feel of his lips against her ear. Something deep inside of him pulled. He did not want to fuck that up.

"I told you to get out," he said through gritted teeth. He gave Trixie a hard shove, and she slipped on the tiled floor, grabbing the shower curtain for balance as she glared up at him.

"Since when does Oscar Weasley say no," she spat.

He glared back at her, anger swirling in his belly now. If he had done this to a girl in the shower, he would be expelled faster than he could blink. Her words were almost an echo of what Isaac had jokingly said to him outside, and Oscar pushed his hands through his hair in frustration.

"Just get the fuck out of here," he said. "Maybe you should start using the word no a bit more yourself before you run out of Quidditch players to fuck."

Fury twisted her beautiful face, and she narrowed her eyes. "It's true, isn't it?" She said coldly. "You're chasing after bookish virgins now, aren't you? That Hufflepuff who can do no wrong."

Oscar glared at her, something hot and vicious twisting inside him at hearing her speak about MC that way. He kept his mouth shut, though. Like before, he wasn't going to add fuel to the fire.

Trixie chuckled and shook her head. "You will regret chucking me out of here, honey, trust me," she said. "When Little Miss Perfect knocks you back, you'll come crawling back to someone who knows how to please a man."

She let her gaze travel slowly over him, and he refused to budge an inch, standing there naked under the water as her lips twisted up into her trademark sultry smirk. Then she was gone, her bare feet padding away softly on the tiled floor.

Oscar let out the breath he had been holding and leant back against the cold tiles of the wall, rubbing his face with his hand.

MC had really gotten under his skin. There was no denying it. Oscar wanted her, and now he was determined to have her.

To be continued....

[ursa-tan]

Metamorphosis

No ship, just fluff!

Requested: No

When Howdy closes the Bugdega unexpectedly, all of his neighbours are extremely worried. The reader is a puppet in this, ever so slightly shorter than Frank and Eddie, who are both ~4 feet tall.

I'm getting fics out so fast because I broke my phone and have nothing else to do until I can get it fixed - then I can go back to doom-scrolling TikTok

Word count: 3,455 Reading time: ~12 mins

TW: None

Somehow, Julie had managed to drag you into helping her out with a party she was planning. Really, she had dragged everyone into it. Drag was the wrong word actually, you (much like everyone else) had volunteered yourself and then got assigned a job. The job in question? You were to bake a cake - or cupcakes, or anything you wanted really, but you had decided to bake a cake. Normally it's something Poppy would've done, but Julie had asked her to help with something else, so you were stuck on baking duty.

You had made the decision to get Wally to help you. He was an artist after all, how hard could baking be? And at the very least, you could get him to decorate the cake and keep you company while you baked it.

"Wally!" You shout, standing outside of Home. He had promised to be out at 11:30 am sharp and it's currently 11:45. You could all see the clock tower from your respective homes, so he had no excuse to be late.

A loud creak and banging of a door sounds from inside Home, closely followed by the sound of Wally's voice. It's too muffled for you to make out anything, but you can hear that it sounds relatively impatient. The sounds are then quickly followed up by what sounds like Wally running and nearly falling down the stairs. It’s a sound that makes you wince slightly.

The door whips open, although it’s obvious Wally wasn’t the one to open it. He’s still standing a little way away, signature cardigan half on as he tries to do his shoes up.

“What happened to ‘11:30 sharp’ huh?” You ask, hands on your hips as you stare down at him.

“Sorry neighbour, something came up,” He mumbled, fully pulling his shoes on and finally exiting Home.

"Ok, well, I take that its all sorted now?" You ask, looking down at him as you begin the short walk towards Howdy's Place. You make sure to take smaller steps so he can stay by your side. Its not like you're that much taller than Wally, just enough so that you have to slow down ever so slightly.

"Yes, all sorted," He smiles, not looking up at you. He keeps pace with a little effort, having to walk slightly faster than usual.

The both of you chat pleasantly as you walk. It's the same thing that happens every time on the short walk. A pleasant little chat where you and Wally catch up on each others life. What is usual, however, is everyone crowded outside of the bugdega, chattering in hushed voices.

"Is everyone ok?" You ask, concerned as you come to a stop between Eddie and Barnaby. Wally slips in next to you.

"Howdy hasn't been seen since yesterday," Eddie mumbles, toying with Frank's fingers as he does, "He hasn't even called anyone, were all a bit worried."

Frank nods, humming in agreement with their husband. "Poppy tried calling him this morning, but he wouldn't pick up."

You look down at the ground for a moment, catching Wally's eyes as he tilts his head to look up at you. There's a look of curiosity in those deep black pits, one of concern too. It drives you forwards, taking the largest steps you can without seeing strange until you reach the door. 

Realistically you know its impolite and completely improper, but you have to try it - so you place your hand gently on the handle and give the door a small push. It doesn't budge at all. You push again, hoping the door is just stuck in its frame for whatever reason, but again it doesn't budge.

"It's locked," You mumble, not turning around. No one answers, you're not sure if its because they had already tried or if they're ashamed for not having tried it. There isn't time to wait for an answer - not in your mind at least. Howdy never shuts the bugdega, ever, especially not without saying something to someone.

You press your face against the window, cupping your hands round your eyes. It gives you a slightly better view into the darkened space behind them. You look for the faint white glow of the fridge, but you can't find it. The fridge has been turned off - or maybe not turned back on after it turned itself off? Whatever it is, it doesn't matter. Howdy is responsible, he wouldn't let his stock go bad, even if he was sick! Something in your gut is sitting horribly wrong.

"Did anyone notice the fridge isn't on?" You turn yourself back to the group, all of whom look up at you when you speak.

"It isn't?" Barnaby asks back, walking up to join you by the window, also pressing his face against it for a moment before pulling away. "You're right, it isn't..." He trails off, looking down at you in concern.

"Does anyone know what we should do?" It's Eddie's turn to speak up again, still messing with Frank's hand - this time smoothing his thumb over the wedding ring.

"Maybe we can take turns sitting outside and waiting for Howdy to come out?" Julie, who had been seemingly deep in thought up until this point, looks up at her best friend and their husband.

"We have to do something more than that," You say, once again turning back to look into the darkened Bugdega. Something is telling you that Howdy needs to be checked on.

"You can't get in, the door's locked, darling." This time, it's Sally's turn to speak up, as she approaches the door. She easily ushers you and Barnaby out of the way, head held high as she speaks in a quiet yet clear voice, shooing you both away.

No one speaks as she leans forwards, resting her cupped hands against the glass door to help her look inside. You're sure she quickly comes to the same conclusion as you, as she leans away and looks back towards the crowd. Surprisingly, she doesn't speak, only solemnly shaking her head and walking away to stand by Poppy.

Quiet chatter breaks out amongst the group once again, everyone seeming to break off into their own conversations as you collectively try and figure out how to get into the Bugdega.

You feel a soft tug on the back of your jumper just as you're about to say something to Barnaby. It's Wally, except he's not looking at you - another unusual thing to add to the list of the many things that have happened today. He's looking up at one of the windows on the second floor of the Bugdega, which is cracked open ever so slightly.

"Right," You mumble, patting Wally's shoulder. You know exactly what he's suggesting, even if he hasn't said it

Ideally, you'd want Howdy for this job. Even if he isn't the tallest neighbour, he does have very lanky arms and you know that you could easily reach the window if you stood on his hands. But he isn't here, so your next best bet is Barnaby.

"hey, Barn?" You ask, tilting your head away from the window and towards the massive blue dog beside you.

"Yeah, kid?" He breaks his eyes away from the Bugdega's door, looking at you. You can tell he's trying his best to hide his concern for the missing caterpillar.

"You think you could lift me up high enough to get into that window up there?" You once again look towards the window, pointing up at it.

"If you think you can squeeze in there," His words strike you, making you re-think your plan. The gap is pretty small, and even if you're one of the smallest neighbours, you doubt if you can squeeze in through a gap that small. "Maybe Wally could fit?"

The smaller puppets look up at the mention of his name, eyes moving slowly between you and the larger puppet. He doesn't seem to have heard Barnaby's proposition.

"You think you can fit through there Wally?" You ask, looking down at the little puppet.

He seems to hesitate for a second, looking up at the open window and thinking before looking back to you and Barnaby. He seems to be a little concerned.

"I'll follow you in," You say, smiling, placing a hand on his shoulder and keeping him close, "I just need you to get in there and open the window. Then we can look for Howdy together, promise."

"Ok neighbour, I'll do it." Wally nods, now waiting for Barnaby to pick him up.

"Right, up we go then." As Barnaby picks him up, the rest of your neighbours turn to face them. Wally is standing on Barnaby's hands, just about managing to reach the windowsill when Barnaby stands up on his tiptoes. You can see that it takes a lot of effort for them both to get Wally up there - the Bugdega is a massively tall building, and Wally has to hook his fingertips into the window to pull himself up.

"Ok kiddo, your turn," Barnaby mumbles, turning towards you and scooping you up next. It takes you a moment to get steady on his hands, but by the time you're as far up as he can get you, Wally has fully pushed the window open and is leaning out to grab your hands. 

As soon as he can, Wally is gripping your wrists and pulling you up. He might not be very strong, but with the combination of being anchored at the windowsill by the waist and Barnaby giving you a final push from underneath, you manage to tumble into the window.

"Are we sure that's a good idea?" You can faintly hear Eddie ask from down below, probably feeling like breaking into Howdy's place isn't a great idea.

"It'll be ok Eddie." You hear Frank's vice next, comforting his husband. It's nice to know they always stick together.

"Ok Wally... Time to find Howdy," You mumble, standing up from where you were on the floor. Wally just nods, standing up and taking your hand. He seems a bit uneasy, and if you're honest, so are you. 

All of the curtains inside are drawn, including the one in front of the window you just crawled through. Everything is also eerily quiet. You can't hear a single sound from anywhere inside the building, bar the soft tapping of the curtain as it flutters in the wind still coming from the open window.

You reach out and take Wally's hand, pulling him until his body is pressed into yours. The same something that told you Howdy needed to be checked on is also now telling you that you shouldn't check alone. 

"Maybe we should check his bedroom?" Wally asks, looking up at you. His voice is still monotone but has lost that sleepy quality it usually has to it.

"Yeah... Seems like the right choice..." You mumble in response, beginning the slow search of Howdy's flat.

Much to your surprise, you don't find anything at all. There are no traces of Howdy anywhere you look. His bed is made, the kitchen is clean, and his bathroom sink is dry. As far as you can tell, it looks like Howdy kinda just... stopped existing.

"I think we should check the actual Bugdega... There's gotta be some evidence of him down there..." It's the first time either of you has said anything since you agreed with Wally on checking the bedroom. It feels wrong to break the near silence of the flat.

"Ok... I'm following," Wally murmurs, obviously not wanting to go first.

You have to move carefully down the stairs as you only have one of your hands to help support you. Wally is gripping tightly onto your hand as you both descend straight into the stock room. The smaller puppet is partially hiding behind you when you both step onto the cold concrete floor. You can hear the sound of your feet meeting the hard surface echo out.

"Howdy's in here..." Wally's voice is muffled as he hides his face in your back.

You hate to admit it, but you know he's right. Howdy is somewhere in the stock room - even if you can't hear him breathing or moving about, you know he's somewhere in here.

"Howdy?..." You call out, hesitant to make any noise in the near-silent room.

Wally continues to hide behind you as both of you explore the Bugdega's storage room. He seems to be trying to keep his face pressed into your back as you both explore. You can't blame him - if you had someone braver than you here, you'd probably hide your face in them... Probably Frank. Frank would think about this logically.

"Hey, Wally... Maybe we should find the keys and open the door to let everyo- AHHHH!" You interrupt yourself with a scream, loud enough to pierce the absolute silence of the storeroom.

Wally peaks out from behind you and promptly gasps in horror, probably already prepared for the sight due to your scream. You can hear someone pounding on the door faintly and the sound of someone else shouting in panic. You think you can vaguely make out the sound of Frank telling Barnaby to pick him up and help him through the window that you left open. But none of that matters.

In front of you is a massive cocoon. It's bigger than any of your friends and looks horrifically sticky in whatever light is keeping the storeroom from being pitch black. You hate to think about it, but you're pretty sure something inside it is moving. You reach forwards to touch it, despite it looking to be covered in some sort of goo, only to be tugged back by Wally.

"That looks like a cocoon," He mumbles, continuing to tug you backwards and away from it, "We should talk to Frank, they know a lot about bugs..."

"Ok, let's get Frank..." You're relieved that Wally brought it up, you don't want to be along in here any longer.

You both rush to find the keys and open the front door. Everyone seems to fret over how panicked the both of you look, especially Poppy. But you don't have time for that, not as you rush Frank in and towards where you found the cocoon. Wally doesn't know what to say, but you're convinced that whatever is in there ate your friend and shopkeeper.

Frank gets as close to it as he can without touching it, circling around it and inspecting it. They seem to reach a conclusion after a few minutes. They stand up and walk back towards you, wally and the neighbours who are now crowded behind you and murmuring quietly. Apart from Eddie, who is waiting outside because he hates bugs.

"I think you're right (Y/n), Howdy is in the chrysalis," They speak with clarity, standing up straight and puffing his chest out slightly, "I think Howdy is pupating."

"And... What does that mean for the big guy?" It's Barnaby's turn to speak now. It doesn't seem like anyone else can find the words, to be fair.

"He's becoming a butterfly!" Frank practically shouts, excitement evident. "O-Or a moth, of course! He could always be a moth."

"How long will it take? This whole," Barnaby pauses a moment to gesture to the chrysalis, "thing."

"Well, it can vary. Some species only take a few days to pupate and emerge, some take weeks or even months! And some even take years! I- We know nothing about what kind of butterfly- or moth! - Howdy is rather large, he could-"

"Frank. How long."

"O-Oh, uh, hmm. My best guess would be around a month, but i could be entirely wrong."

"Let's work with that then," Barnaby huffs, putting one hand on his lower back and one on his head. He lets out a long sigh and closes his eyes for a moment before opening them again, "Someone needs to run the Bugdega while howdy is out of commission, we can't go a month without it."

"I can do that," You pipe up, smiling kind of nervously.

"Ok then kiddo. You sure you can manage that?" He's looking down at you like he doesn't think you can do it. You're determined to prove him wrong.

"Yes, I'm sure." You're not actually sure. Howdy is a lot bigger than you, has 4 arms, 4 legs and significantly more energy than you. But you have to try now, you said you'd do it.

And try you do. For the first week, it seems pretty easy. Very few things need restocking, and everything that does need to be restocked is light and easy to carry. You have to use a ladder to reach some of the shelves on account of them being built for someone who easily doubles your height and them some. But you manage. You run the bugdega.

However, as time goes on and the days roll by, the work gets progressively harder and harder. There's always something to do to keep the place in tip-top shape. You find that you barely have time to stop and eat, only ever managing quick snacks and things that you don't really need to cook. You also find that you're taking unwanted naps while tucked under the counter between customers due to staying up late to keep everything running smoothly.

On the upside, the apron makes you look cute. Even if Poppy had to make a custom one for you so you weren't tripping over the extra fabric.

"You look rough, kiddo," Barnaby chuckles to himself as he walks in, ringing the bell above the door and startling you from your half-snooze.

You jump up from where you were slouched on the counter, causing you to topple off the stool you had been sitting on and onto the floor. Barnaby pads towards you, leaning over the counter and chuckling when he looks down at the mess you've become.

"Have a nice trip? Don't forget to send me a postcard!"

"How does Howdy always have the energy to laugh at your jokes?... I'm utterly exhausted..." You pull an arm over your face, placing it so that the crook of your elbow rests over your nose.

"I'm just hilarious, that's all," The dog reaches over the counter and offers you a hand. You take it, albeit reluctantly, and allow him to pull you back to your feet, "funniest pooch around!"

"Normally I'd agree... But I'm not sure when the last time I got a full night's sleep was."

"Looks like never, if I'm honest," Barnaby doesn't stop when you're on your feet, keeping a hold of your hand and easily lifting you until you're sat on the counter, "If I'm being nice? Maybe about a week ago."

He chuckles as you lean forwards, your face buried in his chest fluff. His breathing nearly lulls you back to sleep immediately. It would've if it weren't for the familiar voice from behind you.

"Uniform looks good on you (Y/n), maybe I should hire you full-time."

It's Howdy, he's back and now significantly different. For one, he's not wearing a shirt, for another, he has a massive pair of butterfly wings coming from his back. Although those aren't the only things. He looks fluffier. Taller too. His limbs - from what you can see at least - fade into a darker, more forest green as they reach his hands. His antennae are also longer and curl around more, practically creating a small spiral. He also seems to be taller, on account of him ducking under the stockroom's door to get into the actual bugdega.

"You're back!" You call, scrambling off the counter with what energy you have and rush towards him. You stand on your tiptoes and hug him, burying your face into his fluffy belly.

"(Y/n)? You ok?"

"I tried running the bugdega while you were out. I couldn't do it." Your voice is muffled against Howdy's stomach as you hug him. You don't want to let go. Not only is your friend back, but now you get to go home and sleep properly for the first time in about a month and a half.

"I think you did a splendid job, the bugdega looks great." Howdy places a hand on your back, allowing you to rest against him for a moment.

Slowly, everything returns to normal. Sure, Frank won't leave Howdy alone unless Eddie physically drags them away. And yeah, Howdy has to have all of his clothes altered to fit his new stature. But over all, everything returns to normal, now with a slightly taller and prettier shopkeeper.

[lyn-js]

One Step at a Time | Chapter 3. Stars Aligned

Calvin Evans x OC Reader

Summary: Everything in Ava Mason's life was what you call normal. She has a steady job as a lab tech at Hastings, has a beautiful bungalow in Sugar Hill, and sometimes babysits her friend Harriet's kids. But that all changes when social services show up at her doorstep with, her 2-year-old niece Delilah. Ever since then, it has been keeping you from your job, going to work late, and leaving when everyone else has gone home. But a certain chemist wants to know why a lab tech is staying late.

Warning: Angst, swearing, mentions of drug & alcohol abuse, dysfunctional family, mentions of adoptions & being put into foster care, and a whole lotta fluff. (Bold Letters mean flashbacks)

(This story is kind of based on what actually happened in Lessons in Chemistry. But no dying. We need to keep one of Lewis's characters alive.)

You try to make sure everything is cleaned and tidy for when Calvin comes over, You're just picking up some of Deliah and Poppy’s toys and putting them away.

Hopefully, she gets to sleep a little bit so you can talk to Calvin and finally tell him the truth about what’s been going on in your life. 

You finally put Deliah down for her nap without a fuss, even though she wasn’t in her room, but big, puffy pillows surrounded her so she wouldn’t fall off your bed. After this past week, she wants to be around you all the time, which isn’t a bad thing. You just hoped she wouldn't be upset when you tried to go back to work, the sick days are running out, and the little excuses aren’t fooling Fran or Donatti.

When you check once more to see if anything is out of place in your new shiny, pristine home the doorbell rings, and you hear Poppy’s pad her way from your room over to the front door wagging her tail in excitement wondering who the visitor is. You try your best to calm the jitters racking through your body. You take a big deep breath in and open the door. The first thing you see when looking at Calvin is the bright bouquet of blush-pink Poppy flowers in front of his face. Luckily he didn’t get to see the heat rush to your cheeks so fast. He steps in and hands you the flowers. 

“I’ll put these in water, make yourself at home.” You walk into the kitchen grabbing a vase to put the flowers in. You could see him looking around, seeing the colorful walls and Polaroids of you, Delilah, Harriett, and the kids. Drawings that were framed and hanging anywhere you could find on the wall.

You can see him enter the living room to find the “Magic tent” you and Delilah made together one night. When you return to the living room he is sitting on the couch, he is still looking around, getting to everything. You place two cups of tea on the coffee table and start talking.

“Ever since I was little, I was obsessed with science. Just knowing how we can be sitting here, talking to each other is a level of extraordinary work. On the other hand, I grew up in a small town in Arizona, and not many people cared. My… My parents never really paid attention to what I was interested in, they only cared about my sister Isabella, who was always in pageantry, going out with the wrong people, doing drugs, and making the wrong decisions. I wanted to change something in the world, make something matter. So, as soon as I graduated high school I made my way out to California. Packing up anything I had and never looking back.”

You try your hardest not to cry, keeping your emotions in check when talking in front of him. You count to ten a couple of times and continue.

“I didn’t have that much money saved for college so I worked as a waitress, and worked at a little bakery up the road from the diner. When I had a little money saved up I went to UCLA, it was the best time I had in my life. But One day my sister showed up at my door saying she was pregnant, that our parents kicked her out and she had nowhere to go but here.”

As you tell him about everything, when you look up to see his reaction, all you can see is his blue irises, not even giving an expression. He’s just sitting and listening.

You have also noticed he was scooting towards you when you were explaining everything, but you just might be in your head about this too.

“Everything was fine up until a couple of months ago. I woke up early to see a social worker with my two-year-old niece saying that the police found Izzy roaming around on the streets for a couple of days looking for drugs. Del was home alone for those couple days without anyone.” You couldn’t help letting a tear shed from your eyes and fall onto your cheek.

You tell him about one of her neighbors finding her alone, screaming and crying, and later on CPS picked her up. I showed up here and told him you would change anything any other way. “I just… I just feel so terrible for what that little girl had to go through. I feel so terrible-”, You feel yourself being cut off by the sobs that are wraking your body. But you feel a pair of strong hands engulf your tiny ones and rub his thumbs on the backs of your knuckles. “None of this is your fault. You did the right thing by taking her in. If she was my niece I would do the same thing.” When you look up you already see his eyes on you.

“Is this why you had to leave in a rush the other day?” he asks you, you try to block the question and move your face away, but he keeps right where you were. You just give him a little nod telling him the truth. 

“Harriet called me and said there was a drunk woman in front of her house and was screaming Delilah’s name. I got out of there as soon as I could. When I got there it was Izzy, she was making a scene and making all of this nonsense up. She said she was clean and had a custody hearing about Delilah, and said she was going to take her away from me.” You wipe some of the tears away and look back up at him. 

”Did anything happen to her, or you? Are you okay?” You can also see him clenching his jaw, and taking a few deep breaths trying not to get enraged with what you had just said.

But for some reason your stomach flutters at the thought of someone caring about you, as for your niece’s well-being. You can hear Calvin saying he was going to go to a local courthouse and file a restraining order against her, and Harriet is going to help us and assure you that we were going to be okay. But we both look up at my bedroom door opening and see Delilah’s small frame hiding behind Poppy’s body.

When you see her staring to peek her body out from the dog, you smile “Hi Ducky?” then she toddles over to you and immediately sits in your lap snuggling into you. But you feel a wet spot on your chest and you look down at your niece and see a few tears trickling down her little rosy cheeks. You look over, give Calvin a quick concerned look, and then turn back to Delilah.

“What's wrong Ducky? Did you have a bad dream?” hoping it was just that and nothing else. She gave a quick nod, not wanting to speak yet and not forcing her to give you an answer. She snuggled back into you and leaned back into the couch, Calvin following your movements, and started rubbing Del's back hopefully giving her some comfort. You see Poppy come up and lay her head next to your knee, you see out of the corner of your eye, Clavin’s hand comes up to pet Poppy’s head.

Suddenly you want to stop time and have an out-of-body experience to see this loving moment.

You all sit like this for a few minutes, in peaceful silence, hoping nothing would disrupt this moment. Trying to mend your niece with the sweet comfort her mother couldn’t provide. Trying to provide and let her grow up in a warm and loving home, and have a good childhood. Something you and Izzy didn’t have, you would never wish that upon any child or human being with the way you were brought up. Even having to think about your terrible past, all of the yelling, screaming, pushing, and fighting. It made shivers run up your spine. 

Your bubble pops when you feel a hand on your leg, you look up to see Calvin has moved closer to you as a couple of seconds ago being a foot or two away, you both are now shoulder to shoulder. You could hear your heartbeat and you wouldn’t be surprised if he heard it too. Without a second thought, you lay your head on his shoulder finally letting your tears fall, and finally letting everything go.

“Everything is going to be alright. We’ll go to the court, and we’ll get them to sign full parental rights over Delilah, and it will all be good. We are going to take this one step at a time, love. " You turn to look up at him but see that he is already looking at you. You don’t know what overtook you both, but in that moment, you both lean in. But the moment breaks when you hear Del whispering your name.

“I don’t want that lady takin’ me. I wanna be wif you and Poppy,” you can see the tears forming in her eyes again. You try and calm her down again and make sure you don't cry yourself. But you push that aside and finally speak up.

“I promise you Ducky, I won’t let her take you away. I want you to stay here too. Who will help me with their magical decorating skills, or going on walks with me and Poppy. Who am I going to go in your magic tent with?” you start tickling her sides to bring out a bubbly laugh from the little girl. Thankfully it worked just fine. “You are not going anywhere Duck, you're staying right here,” when you say that to her you can see her turn around in your lap to face you and whisper “I wuv you Aunty Ava” almost made you cry again. “And I love you too, Ducky.”

“How about we have a family night in, plus Cavlin? Whadya think Ducky?” You didn’t even have to ask without Del's eyes popping open with excitement. She scrambled off your lap to go to the kitchen and try to grab ingredients even though she was too small to reach the countertop. Family nights were the absolute best in Mason’s household.

You and Del would cook dinner and then go to Harriet's house. Then, we would make dessert and have a little sleepover. It was such a good time, having the kids all together and catching up with Harriet. It was truly the best. 

But having one new addition wouldn’t hurt. Especially if you already kissed him. Also to know where both of your feelings towards each other lie, plus it would be nice to have one new addition to the little celebration.

After the dinner and festivities die down at Harrteit’s, you’re in the kitchen with her cleaning the dishes and baking lemon bars while Calvin entertains the little ones with some dancing and magic tricks. You loved how he interacted with Linda and Junior, especially with Del. 

Even though they only met for the first time a couple of hours ago, she's starting to warm up to him more and more. It melts your heart a little bit when you see from the kitchen that she waddles her way to him and asks to sit with him. He gladly accepts and sits in his lap, and you can see her patting his smooth cheek.

“You got a little drool right there,” you turn to see Harriet trying to hide her laughter and move away without getting caught. Luckily you tossed the dish rag at her before she was out of your reach, you both started laughing and trying not to get distracted by burning the dessert. “I didn't know you were catching feelings for a world-renowned chemist. What has gotten into you Ava?”

“I don’t know Har, the first couple of weeks were normal, we were both getting to know each other. Then the next he’s sitting on my couch comforting me and my niece, and the next thing I knew I kiss him!”

I look back over to see her eyebrows raised, and mouth slack. “I know, I was thinking the same thing… but I’m scared Har. I’m afraid he’s going to up and leave when he knows about all of the past, sure I told him about some, but I don’t want my mess of a life to come crashing down on him. Plus, I don’t want to hurt Del, she’s the only real family I have left.” You feel like your heart is about to jump out of your chest with how much you're overthinking, it’s making you go mad right now.

You feel Harriet wrap her arms around you and hug you, you don't say now and you give it right back.

“Has he picked up and left when you told him about what is happening with you and your sister?” you look up at her and of course she has that knowing mom look in her eyes, you shake your head no. “So he didn’t leave then, he’s not going to leave now, you can tell him on your own time Ava. It’s not going to be the end of the world, he is going to accept you for who you are and the same goes for you.” 

“You always know the right thing to say,” you go up and hug her again. Even though you and Harriet aren’t related, you truly see her as a newfound family.

“I’m always going to be here for you and Del. Plus you are stuck with us forever, now why don't we get ready for the sleepover and treat ourselves to some dessert?” She read your mind, you grab the kids and get them ready for bed, so when they are done with the lemon bars they will get their teeth brushed and ready for bed. You’re just very happy that you had this night with your new family, and it seemed like everything was falling into place. Hopefully, this is the start of something fresh and new.

After dessert and getting the kids down from the short sugar rush,  we all gather in the living room and watch a little movie. Not even into the halfway point of the movie all the kids were passed out, so we got them down for bed. The guest room with the largest and comfiest bed calling your name from a mile away.

But of course, there was a problem. There was no place for Calvin to sleep. All three kids were sharing Linda’s room, so the only places left to sleep were the couch which was just taken by Poppy, and that left the guest room. Calvin offered to just go home, but the kids refused to let him go. So this is how you wind up in the middle of the night, laying beside Caviln in bed while you both are still awake and everything is starting to become awkward.

Thankfully he breaks the ice first and asks if you are awake, you turn around in the middle so you can talk to him already seeing him facing you.

“Thank you for the lovely day today, I haven't had this much fun in a long time,” you hear him whisper, feeling his soft breath across your face.

“Anytime, you can always come over and have a dinner and movie night. Plus, it wasn’t bad having an extra edition. The kids really loved dancing with you. I liked your moves, Mr. Evans,” you both start to giggle but die down after a couple of seconds.

But he can see your face fall, wondering where the little moment had gone. You just decide to lay everything out.

“Even though I’ve only known you a couple of weeks, it seems like I’m starting to fall for you Calvin Evans, and it scaring me.” you hear a beat pass, already feeling embarrassed by what you have just said. “Never mind, let’s just go to sleep.” but you feel his hand on yours, not letting you turn over so you can let the tears fall.

“And I feel the same way Ava Mason, and to be honest, it scares me a little bit too.” You feel like your heart is about to explode with fireworks. You really can’t believe that just happened.

“I’m scared that if I tell you everything you’re going to up and leave. A lot of people have done that to me in the past, and I just don’t want it to happen again… especially if it involves Delilah.” you start to let the tears fall again, and feel so ashamed that you just put that all on Calvin. You wouldn’t be surprised if he went to Donatti tomorrow and got papers to have you removed from his lab.

But you feel a pair of hands and your cheek, and see Calvin wiping away any stray tears that were left.

“No matter how bad it gets…no matter what bad things happen, I’m not going anywhere. You hear me, plus I’ve grown too attached to Ducky. You both are too sweet for me.” Your belly dips for how much he has already grown fond of the little girl. So thankful that she is also starting to find love from a newfound family, hopefully, a permanent one for that matter.

After the tears have dried, you both connect for a kiss, putting the cherry on the tip of a perfect night.

With your bodies intertwined and listening to each other's heartbeats, you both finally fall asleep. Hoping for Brighter, and happier days ahead.

Hopefully, everything will fall to perfection soon.

I'm back Baby!!! hoped you liked this chapter. Juicier chapters ahead.

Reblogs are always welcome. Unless you're under 18. I will block you. and comment if you want to be added to the taglist. If I forgot anybody message me and let me know. You will be added.

Taglist: @petersunderoos96 @mrspedropascal5683 @callsign-magnolia @angelbabyyy99

dividers are by @saradika

[celebrimbor-apologist]

Rings of Power Liveblog 2x06

Spoilers you guys

I’m not ready you guys fucking hell

At least the promo picture is not Tyelpe losing it this time haha

Okay let’s go. Im scared. 

Hey at least we are still at rating 12 years hahahaha

Why do I always watch the recap I already know what happened but…

I just realised that Durin doesn’t even doubt Celebrimbor, just Annatar. And Tyelpe’s face. Oh my dearest silverfist I want to kidnap you from Eregion. PleASE. Gotta re-read that fanfic my friend wrote after this 

Hey Arondir is running that’s okay, for a second I was worried they made Elrond run EVEN MORE. I love Arondir in action. I love Arondir. I don’t care much about the southlands sadly but I do care Arondir. 

Oh. MAP. Wait. 

OH TOWER.

Monologue <3

Oh Tyelpe no. HOLY CRAP. WHAT. Ohohohoh 

OH FUCK FUCK NO. 

HE IS NEVER MEAN TO--

HE FORGOT HER NAME HE FORGOT MIRDANIA’S NAME IM NOT OKAY IM NOT OKAY IM NOT OKAY NONONONONONoo 

whatdoyoumean he can Shout stop it stop it

oh he remembers when HE comes in 

oh no i hate this i hate this please please stop. 

OH. NO. 

ANNATAR. NO. GO AWAY. 

“I am well” No you are not. The fucking ring theme coming in. 

Oh no. Oh NO. I just skipped back ten seconds and he- the shards and the mess is all gone. Annatar what have you done please please please

ANNATAR YOU FUCKING BASTARD DIE IN A HOLE TYELPE SAID NO SUCH THING 

And now Celebrimbor is alone in the forge and everyone else thinks it’s good. 

“and pray” BITCH. “pray that he finishes his work before it finishes him” I am unwell I am unwell I am unwell.

Oh Mirdania 

OH FUCK OFF SAURON LEAVE HER BE. 

Mirdania I love you. Run away. Take Tyelpe. 

Yes Annatar, gather your skirties and walk up the stairs 

Omg the smile. 

Ah, yes, Galadriel and Adae at dinner. Must be nice. 

Oh Adar you GET it. 

He promised you what. Adar. Uh. Yeah moving on-

OH THE CROWN

Morgoth’s Crown 

omg this dramatic bitch. He wears what could kill him, huh? 

omg Adar KNOWS it. Is he kneeling??? “the fate of that city now rests on your ability to put aside your pride” and he already has. He already put it aside. And kneels. Fuck 

Oh Sam Hazeldine you GENIUS 

NÚMENOR 

Pharazon die in a fckign ditch and take Sa-

ELENDIL ELENDIL NOOOO 

Fucking Kevin with his arm in a sling. 

“I do” 

“I do not” 

Oh Elendil i love you you insane- Oh I love him. 

Oh, Pharazon is pissed at his son huh 

Eärien listen girlie i didn’t much care for you and then I understood your grief and how alone you felt but you could really, really back out now. Please? 

Oh hi Stranger. 

TOM TO THE RESCUE

Oh hi Nori! Harfoots travel every month? 

Gundabale I love you. 

Oh Nori, still looking for that destiny 

Merimac and Poppy huh? That was a fast burn, but I am not mad about it. She’s been lonely enough. 

“I say we fight for it” Oh I love him 

TOM (yes, this will forever be my reaction) 

ASDFGHJKL Tom is like “Let him find his stick in that mess”

“you must choose” I am Unwell. 

Gandalf having to choose between his friend and his destiny? I…AnD TOM IS GONE HAHAHAHA

Khazad Dum Theme my lovely 

Wait, it sounds different, it sounds… less. 

Is that just what they do now? Make gold treasure? I see now why people say the Arkenstone was a silmaril. Mithril is the light of a silmaril, isn’t it? 

OH FUCK. 

ANNATAR FUCK OFF

Timber, huh? 

“precious” huh 

Annatar getting rejected and not liking it meanwhile Sideeye by Durin. I love it. This is a man who has never been told no. 

King Durin losing it to Greed. 

“You belong to it” Oh Durin you have such a good heart I can barely cope. HOLY SHIT 

Durin are you okay?? No I don’t think so. 

Disa the amount of love I have for you? 

Durin crying <3 Oh love. 

Oh sea trial here we go. Funky horns. 

Eärien hellooo girl you are teenage rebellion gone too far but I love you. I get both sides and they are both breaking my heart. she is getting manipulated left and right and- 

Míriel???? MÌRIEL??? 

MÌRIELLLLL I LOVE YOU SO MUCH I MISSED YOU MY LOVE I MISSED YOU 

Eärien you are forgiven now get another dad hug. 

“What of my heart” OW

“What if it isn’t”. DOUBLE OW

“the sea is always right” 

Oh my heart. My heart is breaking apart to shatters. Oh my loves

DISA HI MY QUEEN

Narvi just try moving her if you want to lose, uh- 

SHE IS JUST SCREAMING AT THEM. 

OMG DISAAAAAAAA  

I AM CELEBRATING IN MY SEATTTTTT

“I LOVE YOU”

“Love me later.” 

THEMMMMMM 

Númenor is so beautiful

Oh the theme in the background. The theme. 

Omg they devised a plan huh??? 

Namarie. Namarie. They said Namarie. Bury me now. 

Oh I’m so not fine. He is crying. Nononono. I am sobbing please Ulmo, please-

Míriellllll

I am rooting for her 

QUEEN OF THE SEA 

QUEEN OF THE SEA 

Pharazon has Palantir+ Huh

Galadriel scheming I love you 

ELROND MENTION (I miss him) 

My ring huh 

“What then for the Uruk” yeah he SEES it. 

HOOOO BOY 

HOOOOOOOOOOOOO BOYYYYYYYY 

Yeah, Adar is going to die. 

Galadriel tastes some of Elrond’s medicine now, huh? 

THE SIEGE BEGINS HUH 

And they all see it. 

Malendol is the commander’s name, huh? You are now officially adopted. There’s this elf named Vorohil who I’d like to introduce you to. 

And he just watches. Annatar just watches. 

Art therapy Celebrimbor <3

And he can’t leave the forge huh 

what 

YES GET HIS ASS TYELPE

when I tell you I screamed

AGAINST THE WALL 

The quote it is the quote the quote

nononono

Oh no. 

OH DEAR No

I can’t

So this is the scene

Ow ow ow ow ow 

Am I weeping? Well let me tell you I’m not revelling in this diner tonight

all is fine outside and this hurts 

I cannot forge more rings 

be at ease 

no do not be at ease. 

The ring song theme. 

I give up 

“precious” 

THE FUCKING HAMMER 

I KNEW IT WOULD BE THE SCENE BEST FEANOR NONONONONONONNNKKJNKJN GUDIjlwneköjbvühfbi

One last time. 

Oh I hate this I hate this I hate this please please please.

I knew it. And he is just walking around there. 

The siege begins. 

find me in the garden where I shall be buried because I am dead 

I screamed less than last episode I feel

Fuck I knew this was gonna happen but I love Eregion so much 

I miss Elrond. 

[bough-25]

I've messed up, ma

After the events of the meeting

After a long but short trip, he finally made it to the home of the Country Trolls. Bough was still shaking with anxiety and fear, he didn't notice that he forgot to wear his country clothes that his mother figure (Detla Dawn) and Frontier's Moms made for him and his friends. The others knew him and his friends for a long time but he never came out here without his friends (where are they and what happened to them).

He finally made it to Mrs. Dawn's home and knocked, he waited until she opened the door and greeted him (she didn't notice how shaking he was)

Dawn: Oh! Bough, I didn't expect you to come! (looking around for the others) where the other'?

Bough remains still and quiet, his hair was covering his face and blowing with the breeze

Dawn: Bough... Kiddo, what happened. (She says with worried and fearing the worst)

Dawn: come on in hon.

She noticed that her kid was hurting, not physically but both emotionally and mentally. So she helped him settle down and put together his favorite snack, biscuits and strawberry jam (she made the biscuits earlier that day for her and her lovely partners, who were currently out doing business) she also noticed that he still had both his 'horns' and gently asked 'what happened hon' , she wanted for him to answer and the only thing he could say was 'Barb is coming for strings and she ain't holding back.' than he look up, tears running down, and says 'I-I'm scared, ma, I don't know what to do.'

That broke Mrs. Dawn' heart and soul, she never heard him so small and scared, and quickly hugged him with one of her mama bear hugs and comforted him (the dam broke and he sobs and hugged her back). After a while, Bough finally calmed down and put himself together, him and his ma talked about a plan and other things along the lines.

Detla Dawn asked Bough if he wanted to sing with her and the townsfolk but he declined the offer, saying next time. So, she sings (Born to Died), while townsfolk and herself were singing and dancing. A group of Pop Trolls (Poppy, Biggie (and Mr. Twinkle), and Clay) finally made it to town, Poppy comments about how sad the song is and Clay responds that life can be sad and he kinda likes the song, of course Poppy thinks that the country trolls didn't know how to be happy and (just like in the movie) Poppy and the gang was locked up for that disgrace to all music. Poppy tried to explain what Barb was planning something big but got cut off by Detla saying that she knows about Barb's plan and added you and your pals stay in there and think about what y'all have done and walked away.

Bough never heard Pop before (and he hates how it is very loud and bright) he was about (and tried) to find the Funk Trolls until in the corner of his eyes, he saw Hickory (in his country troll cover) helping the Pop trolls to escape and of course Mrs. Dawn wasn't happy about that and so the chase was on, knowing her kids, Bough joined in the chase and actually caught up with them and Hickory. Poppy and the others were scared of Bough (they didn't know how fast he ran on all fours plus his 'horns' and glowing Red eyes) but Hickory knows Bough and how crazy fast he was:

Hickory: Hey kid! Ya better slow down a bit, we're about close to a cliff.

Bough continues to run along them, knowing how much he deeply hates to jump, but like a ol' saying 'fuck it'

All five of them stopped in mid air (I hope ya, Pop trolls know how to swim) and fell into the river below them.

[julietpricee]

Here’s a little preview of my Ominis x Sharp x MC fanfic!

Give it some love and read the full thing over on Wattpad 🥳❤️

Forbidden Desires

I sprung up in my bed covered in a thick sweat - I was gasping for air and gripping the bed sheets with white knuckles. I had been replaying the events of today on a loop in my head, it's as if it had cursed my thoughts, it's all I could think of when I was awake and all I could see when I shut my eyes.

If I'd have told them about the dragon... maybe...

I felt like I couldn't breathe.

I looked over to Poppy who hadn't stirred, she was fast asleep clutching onto her stuffed niffler. The room was dark and the common room was silent, it must have been the early hours of the morning.

Gasping for air I jumped out of bed, still dressed in my clothes from yesterday. I don't remember falling asleep and even worse I don't remember how to get out of the castle.

Quickly but quietly, I leave the common room navigating a long corridor and running up a set of stairs. I notice the four tall hourglasses at the end of the hall which I passed earlier with Fig. I run out the door, down the stairs and finally I'm met with fresh air.

I can breathe.

The bitter cold ate at my skin as I pushed open the door. In my rush, I had forgotten my coat and stood in the open feeling bare. It was the end of summer and the nights had gotten cold fast.

As I catch my breath I walk through the courtyard. Four tall stone walls surrounded me, looking like they had been created by the gods themselves. All of the castle did. Every inch of every surface stood with purpose.

I approach a large stone railing at the end of the courtyard and rest my hands on it admiring the view. Miles and miles of highlands surrounded the castle, every inch calling at me to be explored. I could see a small town in the distance and despite it being early hours of the morning it was still bursting full of life.

"Wow" I say to myself.

"That's Hogsmeade in the distance" a quiet voice states from behind me.

I jump and swiftly turn around. I am greeted by a tall, slim blond boy. He was leaning against the courtyard wall behind me smoking a cigarette. His top button was undone and his green tie lay loosely around his neck.

"I didn't mean to make you jump sorry, I'm Ominis Gaunt".

"Juliet Price" I say as I lean back against the railing. "I just needed some air, I didn't see you there".

Ominis steps closer and leans against the railing next to me. He pulls out another cigarette and offers it to me. I place it in my mouth.

"Do you have a light?"

He pulls out his wand and uses it to light my cigarette. "Thank you".

"So, I'm guessing you're the new fifth year?" I nod. "You certainly had a memorable arrival".

I take a drag of my cigarette. "I suppose that's one way to put it".

"The rumour is a dragon attack, is that even remotely close?" He asks.

"Unfortunately yes. We were with one of Professor Fig's friends from the ministry and he didn't..." I stop myself from continuing and take a deep breathe. I turn back around to admire the view again. Ominis follows suit. There's a strangely comfortable silence between us for a few moments.

"If you want to talk, I'm out here most nights... never been one for sleeping through the night" he smiles warmly at me. I smile back.

"I bet you never get bored of this view" I quickly change the subject.

"I've heard it's marvellous" he replies. I look at him strangely. "I'm blind dear"

"Oh, I had no idea sorry".

We stood there in each other company for what felt like an eternity. His presence was so comforting, no awkwardness, no pushing for details, we just existed together in silence. A cold wind blew making me shiver, I didn't want to return to my common room yet, I wasn't ready for another couple of hours of nightmares but the cold had different plans.

"Here" Ominis removed his cloak and placed it over my shoulders.

How did he know?

"I can't Ominis, you'll freeze" I protested. He gently shook his head and walked back over to the courtyard wall. He sat down with his back leaning against it somehow not bothered by the cold stone. I paused, standing in place, watching how gentle his presence was. After a moment I walked over to him and slid down the side of the wall joining him on the floor.

I may have imagined it but I swear he leaned closer to me making our arms rest against each others. I could feel his warmth despite having given me his cloak.

"Is it always that cold in the castle? I feel like we'd both be able to sleep through better if you guys knew how to keep buildings warm"

He smirked. "You guys? You're one of us now you know! Anyway, you'd be a lot warmer if you didn't walk around dressed for the heat of summer".

I laugh. "Or the school could provide us with a nice warm blanket that wasn't the thickness of a hair".

We sat together in silence for a while, watching the view and exchanging subtle glances. Before long Ominis stood up and reached his hand down towards me pulling me up off the floor. "I think we should try and get some sleep, it'll be morning before we know it and you can't be tired on your first day".

Reluctantly I agreed. I removed his cloak and handed it back to him instantly missing the warmth and the vague smell of vanilla and mint. He removed his wand from his pocket and held it out in front of him producing a dull red glow from the tip of it. We walked through the castle together before he left me at the top of the stairs leading down to the Hufflepuff common room.

"Sleep well Juliet" he whispered.

"You too Ominis, it was lovely to meet you".

With that I walked back to my dorm and crawled back into bed suddenly feeling a lot more comforted than before.