#he woke up and felt a lil ill so he went back to bed and never woke up. we agreed that was the best way for him to go

[equallyshaw]

little lion | Luke hughes au! ↠ v day in nyc. - blurb. ↠ au Masterlist! ↠ warnings: none! just very cheesy in the beginning lol. ↠ word count: 1.2k.

lion woke up on the 11th of feburary with kisses to her cheeks and giggling, as she peeked one eye open. her mouth turned upward as she realized that it was luke leaning over as he said next to her, with his face only mere inches away from the girl's. "goomorning." he mumbled placing a kiss on the tip of her stubby nose, causing her to blush profusely as she rolled over onto her side. luke chucked softly, setting the flowers on the ground next to the bed before dramatically plopping his hands on both sides of her, and began to tickle her. which, were the absolute death of her.

"luuuuuuuuke!" she screamed through fits of her's and his laughter. "stop stop stop!" she screamed squirming to get away from him, which resulted in her falling off the other side of her full bed. "don't touch no!" she said as he leaned over to check on her, and she quickly shot up into a fake dramatic fighting stance. she raised her fists near her face, squinting as she did. luke sat on his knees with an amused look on his face, "gonna throw a couple?" he teased and then she threw a fake punch. he dodged it, and she tried again and he took the 'blow' to the chest. "oh! my heart!" he said dramatically before pulling her into his chest and plopping her back down on the bed. he hovered over her, and pulled some stray hair that fell out of her loose braid, behind her ears. "you look beautiful, as always." he smiled staring into her eyes and she blushed. "thankyou lukey. also, thankyou for the 7:30 wake-up call." she teased, groaning playfully. "we've got things to do, places to go, and people to see." he said getting off of her and pulling her out of bed. "oh god, if i have to see jack this morning im gonna riot." she teased heading to her ensemble washroom. luke stayed silent, but followed her to the washroom. she began to brush her teeth and stared at luke, with a death glare. "he's actually waiting downstairs." luke finally responded, and lion smiled.

"well ill be sure to take my sweet time getting ready." she grinned before starting her skincare.

_

the couple and jack walked into a small cafe in chinatown, as kailey was craving a matcha that morning. the three quickly ordered before sitting down, at a small table in the back. "so! hows the girlfriend prospect's coming along?" kailey blurted and luke froze, as he waited for jack's response. jack's mouth twitched into a sly grin, before shaking his head. "still no luck on that." jack answered honestly, and kaiely nodded. "but happy valentines day to you too, little ovi." jack said mockingly. kailey rolled her eyes as she crossed her arms, "you should be grateful i didn't kick you out of the drivers seat earlier. you should be grateful i let you in on our little vday, j.j." she taunted and luke felt himself stifle a laugh. jack gawked "thought we said no j.j." he mumbled. "all bets are off today, j.j" she shrugged as they set down the matcha's for jack and her, and a coffee for luke.

"i dont know how you guys can drink grass, pure grass." luke said sippig his iced americano. jack laughed as kailey glared at him, "this grass you happen to dislike is good! so hush." she teased. "anywho, im getting sick and tired of this pity party." she paused returning her attention to jack, and motioned with her hands over him, "that im taking it upon myself to set you up little boy." she announced. jack went to dispute while luke chuckled. "unless you consider nico your partner, then i guess were good." kailey added for an extra push. jack rolled his eyes looking up at the ceiling while luke snickered. "shutup before i dump my matcha on you." jack taunted and kailey brought up her's to her lips before winking at him, "whatever you say lil jizzy."

_

luke and lion walked into her apartment building, after spending the morning and early afternoon frolicking around manhattan after jack dropped them off. they walked from upper manhattan down to greenwhich that late afternoon, stopped at a small supermarket, brought frozen pizza, and supplies for cupcakes. and luke ofcourse, had to get her another set of flowers- roses this time because her face lit up as they walked through the front doors of the store. she told luke no, but he got them anyways for her.

the two headed up the two flights to her and her roommates - rain - apartment, and saw that the lights were off - indicating that nobody was home. she flicked on the living room light's and then towards her bedroom for her side table lamps. luke in the meantime, went to go light two candles that they had in the living room - one in peonie scented and the other that was musky. lion smiled as she walked back out, as luke finished lighting the room nearest to her. "thankyou luke." she hummed leaning up a bit on her tippy toes and giving him a quick peck.

"can you set the oven to 350 while I wash my hands and get these flowers in some water?" she questioned and he nodded, turning around to do it.

the two found themselves in a comfortable silence as the two began to prepare the cupcake batter about 20 minutes later. luke connected his phone to the Bluetooth, and the first song that played was say yes to heaven, which was their song. "were you listening to it?" she teased and he blushed while nodding. she came up and wrapped her arms around his neck, "well i love it lukey...i do it quite a lot actually." she said looking at his chest. "oh?" he questioned, pulling her in closer by the hips. she nodded looking up at his face as the next song played, you make me feel so young by sinatra. as soon as the first words played out, he began to twirl her around the small kitchen. she threw her head back giggling, as he did so. he softly began to sing the lyrics to her, as he pulled away to twirl her into his chest. she pressed her head into his chest, giggling like a fool.

"something amusing?" he teased as he continued to twirl the two around, and she shook her head, swaying from side to side now.

"no, its just youre dancing!" she exclaimed and that made him nod while placing his nose in the crook of her neck from behind. "i can be romantic when i choose too." he teased, and that made her playfully sigh. she turned around in his arms, "choose too, huh?" she smiled gleefully, before taking some of the cupcake batter and plopping some of it on his nose. his mouth grew agape, as he looked down at her in shock. he grinned, taking an egg from the carton and plopping it down on her head. "oh no you didn't!" she shouted before taking two eggs in both of her hands and plopping them on his head.

the two didn't stop there, taking other ingredients and then the frosting and throwing it at one another.

"oh my god!" the two of them heard from the living room, to the side of them. lion looked first seeing rain, who had an amused looked on her face. "hi rain." luke said politely, and she could only roll her eyes. "yall better clean up tonight." she said turning around and walking into her bedroom. luke and lion looked at one another, and then down at her phone which began to ring with her dad's contact.

hope you guys enjoyed! please like and reblog if you did!

[mxssingmemories]

hi hi hiiii juleeees can i pleaseee get a tony stark x daughter!reader where they're sick or smtj idk i have mild conjunctivitis rn amd it sucks ☹️ so maybe just smth wherr tony takes care of reader and gets cheeseburgers for them ot smth (im sorry if this is too big i love uu)

Burgers

Pairing: Tony Stark x daughter!reader

Summary: you're sick, and you scare the shit out of your dad. Fluff and burgers ensue.

Warnings: mention of not eating due to sickness, passing out, sickness in general

Word Count: 480, just a short lil blurb I'M SO SORRY

A/N: ASH!! HI!! this was so sweet to write, tysm for the request lovie

The sound of loud coughing startled Tony into consciousness, his heart immediately speeding up. He jumped out of bed, running to your room-prepared to find anything and everything. His panic subsided almost instantly, though. He ran in to find you bent over on your bed, in the middle of an awful-sounding coughing fit. He stepped next to your bed, sending a reassuring smile as he sat down next to you.

“You alright, sweetie?” he asked, softly rubbing your back.

“Yeah, dad,” was what you tried to say, but you ended up coming into another coughing fit before you could say a single word.

“Easy, okay, breathe through it,” he coached, worried lines showing through on his face. Luckily, you were too busy hacking up a horse to notice. He hated you seeing it when he was worried. Even in times like these, he wanted his entire focus to be on you. 

The fit steadily got worse, and Tony did his best to get you through it.

“Fri, can you tell Bruce what’s going on? I’m gonna bring her down to the medbay,” was the last thing you heard before everything went black; the stress on your body too much for you to keep up with.

“Oh god,” Tony exclaimed, immediately picking you up in his arms and rushing to the elevator. The ride down to the bay felt like an hour, even though it was only two minutes. When the doors finally opened, Bruce rushed to his side, eyes widening when he realized you weren't conscious. 

“What happened?” Bruce asked as you were rushed into a room, him already hooking up your vitals in less than two seconds.

“I-I don’t know. One minute she was coughing a lot and then she just,” he paused to wipe his nose on his sleeve,”passed out.” 

"Okay, so I'm not seeing anything serious. It looks like pink eye? She doesn't need to be in the hospital right now, Tones," he assured, smiling when all the tension drained out of his best friend's body.

As soon as Bruce finished talking, your eyes fluttered open, confusion masking your face. Tony reassured you as quickly as he could, and a few minutes later, you were riding down to the garage. He decided he wanted to take you to get some fast food-it was his cure-all for stressful days with you.

As you pulled up to the McDonald's line-"Why are we even here," being said about fifteen times from your dad- you laidd your head on his shoulder, letting your eyes close. Your breathing evened out, but Tony woke you up when you got your food.

"Thanks, dad," you smiled, digging into your food. You still felt like absolute shit, but you hadn't eaten in almost a day thanks to your illness. You could have sworn that was the best burger you'd had in your whole life.

[sometimes-she-becomes-it]

What if Callie met a non-empty little cal

Lil' Cal was in a different place again

“Huh” was all Calliope had to say to that.

She grabbed it, and held it close to her body- she could feel it cling to her, and smiled. It was still in the lovely clothes she’d made for it, an elegant suit and coat that fit it perfectly. 

“You have to stop doing that, you know?” She said, almost admonishing. Then felt ashamed of herself. Just who did she think herself to be. To talk to him like that? Did she forget her place? “Sorry. I don't want to- I know I shouldn't tell you what to do. But one of these days you might go too far, or something, and then I wouldn't be able to find you” she pressed him? it tighter against her body at the idea. The idea of being separated from him felt… wrong. It made her feel ill. It made her remember orange eyes narrowing in concern, then suspicion. Hands tugging his fabric out of her grasp, words thrown at the air- words like “possessed” and “cursed” and “brother”. A sick feeling in her chest- she couldn't breathe couldn't breathe she needed him back she needed-  something. It probably wasn't too important.

She could feel the fabric of his arms press tighter against her and knew he understood. He was all she had now. All she had ever had. All she needed. Nothing else mattered There were four blocked contacts on her pesterchum  She needed him. No one else mattered. Of course. That made sense. No need to question it. No need because it was true. Everything he said was true so she would never question it. Of course. 

She looked outside at what little light could come through the curtains. She usually had them closed because it was never important to know how much time had passed. But the absence of light told her it was night outside. She should go to sleep. Lately her dreams had been full of red eyes and wandering hands. A never ending darkness she did not could not would not fight against. Hands holding her by the waist as she was too submissive (like a good girl should be) to resist, her limbs tugged this way and that like a good little toy as those red eyes looked into her soul and a familiar voice said checkmate, sister.  Forgettable. Of course. She had no reason to not want to go to sleep. Nor reason to feel herself grow warmer at the thought.

She set the puppet on her bedside table and proceeded to undress- she ignored the feeling of being watched as she did so. She looked inside her closet as she wondered what pijamas she should put on tonight. She should go to sleep naked. Of course. She didn't think twice about it as she went to bed- she should take off her underwear too. Right. That was a good idea. She took off her bra carefully, then her panties, and walked towards the bed, Lil’ Cal still on her bedside table, his face no longer facing towards the closet, as she had set him, but towards the bed. She laid down and fell to sleep quickly. 

(Her dreams were even more intense this time, an aching feeling of emptiness and need need need as she begged someone, her voice a broken moaning of please please please as she knelt before him who? and cried at the painful hollowness in her before he held her down and made her feel full and whole again because only he could make her feel whole. She was nothing without him. She cried in pain and agreement as she saw his eyes loom closer and closer before-)

When she woke up, Lil' Cal’s arms were tight around her torso, his face buried between her tits. She didn't think much about it, simply sighed and held him tighter towards herself, ignoring the warmth growing steadily between her legs. 

This was fine. This was perfectly normal.

This was the way things should be. The way things should always have been. 

Just her, and Cal.

Forever.

[ticklish-n-stuff]

maybe someone notices shouto isn't having too good of a day, maybe his mood is a little off? There could be a reason as to why he's upset, or it can just be a day he woke up on the wrong side of the bed, and whoever it is that noticed chooses to try and cheer him up!

Or, it can be right after them going after Mr. Smiley takes place, izuku and katsuki talking about the quirk and how embarrassing it might've been, while shouto mentions how it wasn't so difficult to hold back his own laughter. Katsuki could probably make up a 'challenge' for shouto keeping quiet while being tickled and izuku probably helps?

I'm not sure if you like either of those, but that's what can't to mind for me :)

- 🕷️

Comforting touch

Ahhh anon tysm for sending these in! Both these prompts are so nice, but for now I'll be sticking with the first one. I still feel pretty bleh from surgery and comfort tickles are exactly what I need rn. But I'll definitely write another fic for that 2nd prompt when I feel better, it sounds so fun and chaotic lol!

For the ler I'm gonna go with Izuku 'cause... idk I'm fond of the 'lil broccoli lol

This is my first MHA fic so please go easy on me akdjsujdksjdjs

___________________________________________

Shoto x Izuku (interpret as you wish)

Lee: Shoto

Ler: Izuku

Warnings: Tickles! Slight angst maybe??

___________________________________________

It was currently the weekend, which means that the students from U.A. High finally had a bit of free time before going back to their usual routine. Most of them used this opportunity to partake in whatever hobbies/activities they enjoyed, or to simply catch up with friends and family. Well...everyone but one of them.

It was around 12 pm, Izuku noticed that Shoto never went downstairs to get breakfast. Actually... he hasn't seen him leave him room at all. Was he feeling ill? Maybe he should go check on him, just in case. He probably hasn't eaten anything yet, so Izuku prepared him some cold soba and went up to his room. The greennette gently knocked on his bedroom door "Hey Todoroki, it's me. I brought you some food, can I come in?". But there was no response. Izuku tried fiddeling with the doorknob and to his surprise it was unlocked. "I'm letting myself in. Hope you don't mind" announced the freckled guy as he made his way inside Shoto's room. "Hey Shoto, what are you- Shoto! Are you okay?!" Izuku panicked a bit when he saw his friend curled up into a ball on his bed, while wearing a sad expression on his face.

Izuku put the bowl of food on a nearby desk and quickly made his way to sit next to Todoroki. He tried to comfort the bicolored haired male by soothingly rubbing his back. Shoto let out a sigh of relief at the comforting touch, he really needed it in that moment. Once he felt a bit more relaxed, Todoroki turned over to face the greennette. Izuku looked down at him with a soft smile "How are you feeling?".

"Better... thanks for coming..".

"No problem. So uhh... do you wanna talk about what happened? It's okay if you don't want to!" Izuku was such a nervous wreck when it came to comforting people, he didn't want to accidentally make them feel worse. Even so, Shoto felt a deep connection with him, so he didn't mind being more open with him.

"I don't know... I just can't seem to get out of bed today" responded Todoroki with a slightly dejected look in his eyes.

"I see... is there anything I could do to help?".

Shoto perked up his head at Izuku's question, he did know of something that could cheer him up but it was a bit embarrassing. A soft blush started to form across his cheeks, it was very uncharacteristic of him to get flustered so easily. Izuku noticed how shy the other was being "Did you have something in mind?".

"Yeah but it's a bit silly..." said Todoroki as he tried to avert his gaze.

Izuku's mind started racing with all the possibilities of what Todoroki could be thinking about. He was lost in thought for a bit, rambling away as he usually does. It was normal for him to be like that so Shoto didn't even question him. And then it hit him. A mischevious smirk overtook Izuku's lips as Shoto's blush grew deeper, looks like he figured it out. "If you wanted to be tickled you could've just said so~" said the greennette in a teasy tone as he lightly poked at the taller one's stomach.

Todoroki let out a startled gasp, wrapping his arms around his tummy as he curled up once more. Izuku giggled in endearment as he started to softly scribble up his back. "C'mon Shoto, laugh it all out!".

Poor Shoto shook with laughter as he tried to compress his giggles, an occassional squeak making it's way out his lips. Izuku then wiggled his fingers along the back of Shoto's neck and that's when the dam broke. "Pfft! M-Midoriya nohoho!" he tried scrunching up his shoulders to protect his sensitive neck but then Izuku moved down to his sides, lightly poking and pinching at them. "Ack-! Nahat thahahat!" he giggled out cutely as he tried to gently swat away Izuku's hands. The greennette took the opportunity to pin Shoto's wrists above his head.

The bicolored haired male blushed harder, his scar getting lost in the red hue of his face. He struggled a bit in the shorter one's grasp only to slump down in defeat. A wobbly smile overtaking his lips as he watched Izuku's free hand get closer to his tummy.

"Are you ready~?" asked the tickler with a teasy smirk on his face. Silly Shoto couldn't help but let out nervous giggles as he softly nodded his head. "Good!" and just like that, Izuku started to gently vibrate his clawed hand against Shoto's tummy.

"GYAH! IZUKU NAHAHAHAHA!" Todoroki threw his head back in laughter as he softly kicked his legs out, his tummy was one of his worst spots after all.

The broccoli head giggled as he lightly scratched at the ticklish tummy "Ahh tiiickle tickle tickle~".

"PFFT! AHAHAHAHA! D-DOHON'T SAY THAHAT!" Todoroki squeezed his eyes shut as his nose scrunched up slightly, with a big dorky grin plastered on his face.

"Don't say what? Tickle tickle~?" Izuku giggled when Shoto let out a flustered squeal at the tease.

"HAHAHAHA! ST-STAHAHAP PLEHEASE!".

Izuku quickly stopped his tickly torment, letting go of his wrists. He opted to lightly rub Todoroki's tummy while he tried to calm down his giggles. It was pretty cute how he struggled to talk while giggling all cutely. "Ehehehe..! T-thahanks for thahat..!".

"No problem! Next time you're feeling upset you can come talk to me" Midoriya offered him a bright smile, Todoroki couldn't help but softly smile back at him. He was glad he had a friend like him.

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I feel like this ended up being pretty cute~! It was also a lot of fun to write!

If anyone would like to see more MHA fics feel free to send me reqs. with whatever characters you want :]

Idk why but I suddenly remember that scene where Shoto goes 'my name is not 5 weenies' xD

[manonblaqkbeak]

Midnight Cravings

so, i actually wrote most of this in july but never finished it and decided to fix it up for todays prompt bc i was feeling a lil lazy lol. and i think its one of my faves, especially the ending.

2.2k words

cw: none

enjoy!! :)

It was just past two in the morning and Aelin was wide awake. Not due to a mountain of paperwork, or a nightmare or one of her kids needing her. Aelin was wide awake because she was absolutely starving.

The type of starving it felt like she'd never eaten a day in her life. Like her stomach was going to eat itself.

Her stomach growled again, louder than before, and beside her, his voice muffled, Rowan asked, “Is that your stomach or the wind outside?”

“Shut up,” Aelin mumbled, as her stomach continued its song. Gods, why was she so hungry? She practically devoured the fruits in the fruit bowl just before bed, she had a healthy serving of dinner, and a large slice of chocolate torte for dessert.

But here she was, close to eating her damned pillow to sate her starvation.

Aelin glanced over towards her mate, his back to her, and she shuffled closer, resting her chin on his shoulder.

“Rowan,” she started to say, but Rowan cut her off.

“I'm not going to the kitchens.”

She pouted, although he couldn't see her. “Please?” she knew that if she used her manners, then he would do just about anything.

But it didn't work. Not just yet. “There's some fruit in the bowl.”

“I ate them all.” He sighed heavily, knowing that he was losing this conversation. “Please? I am your mate, your wife, the mother of your children.”

Rowan snorted. “Really? I was starting to suspect that the three silver-haired children were Lorcan's.”

Her hunger nearly disappeared at the thought of that. “Don't be gross.” Reaching over, Aelin kissed the tip of his ear, smiling as he shuddered in pleasure as she nibbled on it. “Please?”

Rowan sighed heavily, knowing that he lost, and Aelin barely hid her smile. “I'll go,” he said. “But only if you join me.”

Her smile did disappear at that. “But the bed is so warm.”

“Exactly. If I have to leave it, so do you.”

“Fine,” she mumbled reluctantly, but quickly perked up, realising that she would be getting food. Rowan was a much better cook than her. Aelin used to have basic cooking skills, but with being Queen and then becoming a mother, she never cooked anymore and really had no need to; not with multiple cooks under the palace roof. She did try a few years ago as a treat for her family, but everything turned into a crisp and wasn't even suitable for the dogs in the kennels.

Scrambling out of bed, the Queen and King of Terrasen tied on their robes and put on their slippers. Aelin loved the sight of Rowan looking so domestic, it was ridiculous how much she loved it.

Since Isolde was only six months old and far too young to be left behind, Rowan put her in the wooden carrier to take with them into the kitchens, their movements silent as the grave as they transferred their youngest from her crib and into the crafty carrier—Isolde was the only one of their children that slept soundlessly through the night at such a young age, and loathed to be woken up. As Rowan did that, Aelin checked in on Alder in his room, their son a little over three years old, but he slept like a log and Aelin knew that he wouldn't wake up at any point when they were gone.

As they left their chambers, Aelin nearly ruined all their good work and almost woke up their other children when she bit out a curse at the sudden leg cramp that shot up her right calf. Rowan glanced at her, asking if she was okay, and after a moment she was, although she was left a little dazed at the suddenness of it all.

Aelin's legs had been cramping randomly of late, but she didn't notice anything of concern. If it continued, she would go to Magnolia and see if anything could be done about it. The last thing Aelin needed was to fall ill, she had far too many things to do with winter arriving in a few weeks. She did know that if anything was wrong with her, that she could rely on Rowan completely.

Aelin's stomach growled for the umpteenth time, the sound lasting for a good minute before it settled. Isolde fidgeted in her sleep, but did not wake.

“I think your stomach was just trying to talk to me.”

“It was,” Aelin agreed. “It said that we need to hurry the hell up or it's going to disintegrate.”

“We better do as it says then. It'd be cruel to subject Terrasen to a hungry Queen. No one should suffer as I do when you're starving.”

“You make me sound horrible.”

“You are,” he said, humour dancing in his dark eyes. “And not just when you're hungry.”

Aelin mumbled under her breath. Rowan decided to pretend not to hear her, even as he fought a smile.

After what felt like an eternity, they reached the kitchens, Rowan placing Isolde onto the counter closest to them. Aelin rushed towards the bowls of fruit, grabbing an apple and a pear, eating the fruits simultaneously. She missed the small, private smile Rowan gave her as he went to the pantry, asking her what she was in the mood for, one eye on their child. But still, she slept and Rowan for a moment, wished that all of their children had been like that, but knew that there was no point in complaining when they all slept quietly now.

“Something filling,” was all Aelin could think of to say. But after a moment decided on an omelette, filled with bacon, mushrooms, onion, red bell-peppers and carrot. As she and Rowan prepped the ingredients—with Rowan wanting his own omelette—Aelin contemplated in silence, her brows furrowed as she chopped up the carrots.

“What are you thinking about, Fireheart?” Rowan asked when he noticed his wife's expression.

“Just trying to remember the last time I was this hungry. I've been like this for at least a week and a half.”

“I've noticed. You haven't had this big of an appetite for a good number of years.”

She didn't comment on that, lost in her own world. “And my legs have been cramping lately too. I haven't injured myself. Have I been sleeping in strange positions?”

“No, you're sleeping just fine.”

Her frown deepened. “Maybe I'm just stressed for the winter preparations.”

“Possibly, I know that you worry a lot for the people during winter.” They both did, as the winters in Terrasen were brutal. Each year there was always a small number of people that passed due to the cold for a number of reasons. When those lists made their way in Aelin's hands, it always hit her hard, her guilt a palpable thing, even after Rowan would tell her that it was in no way her fault.

But that wasn't the reasons for her consuming hunger and leg cramps—Rowan had noticed the change in her scent weeks ago and when he noticed, he thought that Aelin would too. But she was completely oblivious and he didn't want to spoil the surprise, although it was getting harder each day not to say something.

However, he couldn't help but count back the weeks to the day of conception. He was fairly certain that it was when Aelin had been reading a particularly steamy novel on the window seat in their sitting room and jumped on him like they had never had sex before when he had come to ask if she was joining him in bed.

It would fit in with list of unusual places they have conceived their children. Elentiya had been in the library (either in the archives or in Aelin and Rowan's private nook, neither were sure), Norrin against an oak tree (which they discovered after they have calmed down that the Little Folk had watched the entire encounter, with Aelin becoming stuck between wanting to laugh or hide under a rock), Alder against one of the many palace chimneys, and Isolde in a linen closet.

Maybe one day they would conceive a child in their bed like most people did.

They got to cooking, with Rowan standing behind Aelin and guiding her with the wooden spoon and plating their midnight meal before it burned into a crisp. Isolde babbled in her sleep as the sounds of cooking reached her, but still slept. It wouldn't be long, however, until she woke up to be fed. Aelin placed their youngest by her feet as they sat down at the small dining table in the far corner of the kitchen where the workers took their breaks.

The smile on Aelin's face as she bit into the fluffy omelette was certainly worth being woken up in the middle of the night.

However, her fork stilled in mid-air when she was halfway done when realisation dawned on her.

Finally.

“I'm pregnant,” was all she said, her Ashryver eyes growing wide. Rowan didn't bother to hide his smile. This was why he didn't say anything. It was always worth it when she revealed those beautiful words to him. “Rowan, I'm pregnant. The last time I was this hungry was when I was pregnant with Alder and the leg cramps are from Norrin's pregnancy. And all the fruit I can't stop eating is just like when I was pregnant with Isolde. How haven't I noticed anything?”

“You've been busy,” Rowan said, reaching over to take her hands in his and kissed her fingers.

“You knew, didn't you?” Aelin asked, her eyes narrowed just slightly.

“I may have noticed.”

“You should have told me.”

“I like it better when you come to the realisation yourself,” he said simply.

Aelin shot out of her seat and sat on his lap, a pretty smile gracing her face as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders, her fingers playing the the hair at the nape of his neck. Rowan wound his arms around her waist and kissed her on the cheeks, the tips of her nose, the corner of her lips and then her mouth.

Aelin hummed contentedly and kissed him back. When they broke apart, she rested her forehead against his.

“We're insane.”

Rowan laughed deeply at the sudden statement. “What makes you say that?”

“We're having a fifth baby. Lorcan and Elide only have three and I always thought that they'd have at least a dozen, but they don't and we're about to have five. That's insane. We're insane.”

“We are, but I like that about us,” he said, kissing her again. Her face was open and soft, her eyes dancing with happiness, but he still found himself asking, “Are you okay with it?”

“Of course I am, buzzard. More than words can say.” Aelin kissed him to emphasise that fact, his hand reaching down onto her belly and was content to stay like that forever. She couldn’t believe how lucky she was. She always thought that she’d just have one child, maybe two, but to have five was something she never dreamed of.

Isolde finally decided to wake up and scream her displeasure at being hungry. Aelin was off him in an instant, cooing at their daughter as Aelin sat back in her seat and fed not just herself, but Isolde at the same time. His mate was spectacular at multitasking like that.

They couldn't wait to meet their fifth child.

X X X X X X

Rowan was surprised that his children hadn't kicked down the doors to the bedchamber with how excited they were. Even little Isolde was a ball of energy and she was by far their most quiet child. Rowan lead them to their mother, reminding them that they had to be quiet and gentle, because mama had just gone through a long process of bringing in their new sibling into the world.

They entered the bedchamber and Aelin greeted them with a tired but loving smile telling them to come meet their new sister, the kids went onto the bed, surrounding Aelin and the baby, happiness and wonderment in their eyes as they took in the little bundle of joy, her silver hair stark against her lightly tanned skin. She had opened her eyes briefly during her first feeding and Aelin had groaned playfully when she spotted that they were pine-green, muttering how of course I labour for a whole day to give birth to another you. But he knew that she didn't care if she was born with green hair and yellow eyes, Aelin loved her immensely.

“What's her name, mama?” Elentiya asked softly, carefully trailing a finger down her sisters cheek.

“Elowynn-Yrene.” Rowan would never forget the pure joy in Yrene's eyes when Aelin asked if the healer would give them her blessing to grace their child with her name, as a thank you for all the years of coming down and helping Aelin, for eradicating Erawan, and for being a great friend to both of them. It had taken them a few minutes to convince their friend, citing that the honour was far too much, but Yrene eventually said "yes".

“That's pretty,” Alder supplied, a wide smile on his face. Aelin kissed his temple and thanked him for his kind words.

Aelin moved her eyes from Alder to Rowan, smiling as her mate stood there, taking them in.

His family, their family. Never did he think he would be so blessed to have this.

His and Aelin's children; the most beautiful thing Rowan had ever seen.

Rowan went and joined his family on the bed, the smile on his face one of Aelin's favourites.

[the-bau-quinjet]

hi, may i request a steve x reader where the reader is much like pre serum steve? (i have a few chronic illnesses that leave me feeling down everyday and i have many physical limitations) so just a fluffy one like extra super fluffy steve making reader feel better

Comfort

Warnings: a lil angst at the beginning, but mostly fluff

Word count: 605

a/n: I hope this is what you wanted! I myself don't have experience with a chronic illness, so I'm really sorry if it doesn't seem accurate. I tried to base the feelings off of how I feel sometimes mentally, so hopefully that works.

You stumbled out of the elevator, heading directly for you room. In theory, you know you should eat something, but laying down sounds so much better.

Everyday for you was a battle. Some easier than others, but a battle nonetheless.

You knew today would be bad from the second you opened your eyes. You woke up already exhausted, putting all your effort into even getting out of bed.

Refusing to back down from a challenge, you spent the entire day working harder than normal to finish a project. It left you even more exhausted, just wishing you could curl up with Steve and sleep.

When Steve was here, his presence would help ease the stress. But, he was on a mission. One that wasn't supposed to end for three more days.

The short walk from the elevator to your room felt like a mile. Unlocking the door required more focus than it should, your hand shaking from pure exhaustion.

After finally pushing the door open, you went straight for the bed. Dropping your bag on the ground, you nearly fell onto the mattress, not even bothering to change into pajamas.

"Y/N?" A voice called from the kitchen, jolting you out of your near slumber.

"Huh?" You rolled toward the sound, confusion etched on your face.

Suddenly, Steve came into view.

"Steve? You're home..." Your voice wavered, unsure if he was really standing in front of you or if you were imagining his presence.

"Hi baby." He murmured gently, brushing your hair of your forehead.

You leaned up into his touch, eager for the comfort. Tears pooled in your eyes, your exhaustion mixing with the relief of seeing Steve.

"Bad day." You mumbled into the side of his neck, hugging him with all the energy you had left. "I missed you."

"I missed you too." He softly pulled you into a hug, running a hand over your hair. "Let's get you changed." He helped you sit up, pulling your comfiest clothes from your dresser. He lifted your shirt over your head, helping you slide your favorite sweatshirt over your body. Repeating the process with your pants, you leaned into his touch.

"I made your favorite for dinner. Do you want to eat something?" He spoke gently, rubbing circles into your back.

You nodded your head, reaching your arms up in a silent plea for him to carry you. With a soft smile, he pulled you into his arms. You wrapped yourself around him like a koala, not letting go until he set you on the couch in front of the TV.

He sat down next to you after grabbing plates from the kitchen, gently pulling you into his side.

"Do you want to watch a movie?" You nodded again, relishing in the feeling of his arm around you.

He cued up a film, something happy he knew you would enjoy. As you both finished eating, he shifted you on the couch so he was laying down with you on top of him.

"My sweet girl." He murmured into you hair, pressing soft kisses to your forehead. He ran his arms over your back in soothing patterns, helping you relax after your stressful day. "I love you so much." He whispered.

"I love you too." You mumbled, nearly asleep. "Thank you. For always knowing how to help me."

You cuddled closer to him, finding comfort in his arms wrapped around you.

"I'd do anything for you." He whispered as you fell asleep.

Permanent taglist:

@averyhotchner @jesuswasnotawhiteman

[stag-bi]

Hey I saw your tags re: believing in ghosts! I'm always up for hearing some haunting stories, if you'd like to share! (If it's something that's too sensitive I'm sorry about bringing it up, you obviously don't need to reply to this! Just know that I agree like yeah skeptics are allowed to not believe in ghosts but like...they really shouldn't be assholes about it....)

oh why not :D ill share at least some of the Mysterious Happenings. warning, this is gonna be LENGTHY.

here's a quick mspaint layout of the most Affected Areas cause i hate explaining shit

my mom & her bf bought the house when i was ~14-15yo. i had to stay behind in our previous apartment while they did some renovations. when i visited for the first time, i sat at the dining table, facing the living room, doing homework and out of the corner of my eye i could see someone standing between the table and the sofa, watching me. i recognized them as a young boy, 6-10yo, w/ blond hair and red & blue clothes. every time i looked, he disappeared. and when i went back to my hw, he turned up again at the same spot. eventually i got frustrated and said out loud, "please stop appearing in front of me and let me do my homework in peace" and, being a polite boy, i never saw him again. emphasis on the SEEING part. (the rest are under the cut, this is just a lil primer)

the kitchen/dining room/living room area had an... extremely unpleasant atmosphere. idk how to explain but like, there was an INTENSE sense of being glared at with deep hatred, as if urging me to get the FUCK out - it honestly felt like i was in danger. somehow i could place the source of this energy in the corner between moms bedroom door and the sofa.

this only manifested when no one else was there, especially at night. as a night owl, i would occasionally have to go make a sandwich or something, and the whole time i would avoid looking anywhere else than the plate in front of me. i'd make my sandwich while saying shit like "im sorry, ill go away in a minute, i just need to do this and i'll leave you alone, im sorry" i was genuinely TERRIFIED

the thing is, the hostile atmosphere was there regardless of my own mood. i could be having a great day, absolutely jovial, and the minute i entered the kitchen, it was like a wall of disdain hitting me full-force. but it would disappear once someone else entered the room. sometimes it happened at daytime. but there were some evenings where i could sit and watch TV for a little while w/o an issue. however, the bad vibes would eventually return and i'd have to go. it felt like whatever occupied that space would NOT share it, but they also didn't occupy it ALL the time. maybe they had to go out and do ghost chores every now and then, but once they came back, i'd need to fuck off. (i hadn't talked to my mom about it, but after i'd moved away, she randomly confessed to experiencing "a terrifying hostile energy in the living room whenever she was alone". turns out that both of us had felt the same exact thing.)

not being able to use the living room tv, i'd often come home from school, see the house was empty, and go watch tv in the tiny guest room. one time i was sitting there, and suddenly started hearing the sound of small footsteps running all around the house, from the living room to the hallway and back again. it sounded... gleeful? so i guess the little boy was happily running circles in the house, like any normal child with an afternoon burst of energy.

another time, after school, i had the chance to watch tv in the living room, and while sitting on the sofa, i had the window next to me open for fresh early autumn air. the window suddenly slammed closed on its own, i blamed it on the wind and opened it again. a couple minutes later, it again closed itself, and i was frustrated, but i heard soft childish snickering behind me. i got pranked by my ghost child roommate.

years later, mom told me that one night as she was laying in bed on her back, she woke up to a child's blond head poking upside down facing her through the fucking wall above her and he was SMIRKING. i swear to god, my mom doesnt do pranks or lie abt this stuff, if anything she dowplays everything, which is why she didnt find it important to share this until much later. what the fuck

one night i had friends over, and while they were bothering the spirits in the living room i was sitting in my own room knowing better, and they burst in shitting their pants. apparently they'd stood in front of the huge mirror on the living room wall tempting fate and the Boy had turned up next to them in the mirror. That same night, they were fascinated and wanted to connect w/ the boy again, so we sat at the dining room table and they asked him questions using a candle's flicker as an answering tool. i dont remember what they asked and what answers they got, cause honestly i didnt believe in that sort of communication, but i did plead him to let me have my room as my safe space and to never enter it. the next morning i saw a tiny handprint in my bedroom mirror. absolutely the size of a 6-8 year old child. but he never bothered me in my room again

however when it comes to that moody bitch in the living room, it wasn't as fun and quirky. The most terrifying thing I ever experienced in that house? I'd sometimes wake up at night to the sound of dragging feet slowly approaching my door, and it would stand there, BREATHING HEAVILY, SLOWLY SCRATCHING MY DOOR UP AND DOWN, until it eventually dragged its feet back to the living room area. i remember that while it stood there scratching, i could hear the hangers next to my door clink together as if something was hitting them. It happened a few times, and I'm tearing up in fear just thinking about it. I wish it was sleep paralysis, but I remember being able to sit up and write in my journal while it was going on, and one time I had a friend over when it happened , and i woke her up, she was zonked on sleeping meds so she just rolled over, said "dont worry it wont kill you" and went back to sleep. lmao i still roast her for it

the house had a cellar entry on the floor of the laundry room, and while my mom's bf was getting something from the cellar, apparently the RIDICULOUSLY HEAVY cellar door defied gravity and flipped itself over right on my moms bf's arm, breaking it. mom says it's 10000% the moody corner ghost that did it because it fucking HATED my moms bf. the cellar also suddenly burst a pipe or something, and the whole place flooded, ruining all of my family's pictures and cards from when we were kids.

another time i got to use the living room tv, i had asked a friend to come over. while i sat there the entire time waiting for them, they came in and said they saw someone standing facing them in the dining room window :) on the opposite side of the room :) while i was on the sofa :)

when the previous owner came in for a visit to see the renovated house, i ran up to her and gently asked if they'd ever experienced anything... supernatural here? and her eyes lit up and she laughed saying "oh yes! my daughters were very familiar with the small boy that lives here" and she described him perfectly. She was so nonchalant about it too, told us that every house in this neighborhood is haunted because when the cold war happened, it hit here extra hard 😬

those were some of the most notable things, i'm definitely forgetting some stuff and i'm leaving out things that are exhausting to explain or are more likely to have a normal explanation. i lived in this house for a year or so, until i moved out to go to an art school in a different city, after which i moved back in for a month until i got my own place, and eventually mom and her bf broke up, she moved out and he sold the house.

i never had experiences with hauntings again, despite the fact that the apartment me and my gf have lived in for almost 7 years originally went empty because the owner died here. but ive never felt a presence here, which i can be extra confident of because i KNOW what an actual presence feels like. it's not like when you watch scary videos and get paranoid. its extremely clear when it happens, theres no paranoia involved.

i did get something of an affinity towards spirits after i moved out. i love to visit cemeteries as i'm no longer scared of them, because the ghosts that have a grudge arent rattling chains in the cemetery, theyre pissing the fuck off of everyone who lives in their house now.

sometimes i kinda wanna go visit and say hi to the little boy spirit, which is stupid, but looking back now, he rly was a little rascal lol.

all in all, i can't explain the things that happened, all i know is that they happened. i do have a hard time reconciling my experiences, my beliefs, and my trust in science, because personally i believe in reincarnation, and ghosts really don't make sense with that, nor with science. so all i can say is that i'm open to accepting things that i can't explain, or that science can't explain yet. for the record, 99% of ghost shit online is fake as hell. i only believe it when someone personally shares me their experiences, not when theres some sorta internet points involved. and when it comes to skepticism, its just plain arrogance if theres no chance given to the possibility that one might actually be wrong after all. just like i accept the very real possibility that this was all some kinda combination of random coincidences + carbon monoxide poisoning + high pitched machinery sound that creates anxiety and hallucinations + etc etc etc. and if thats true, at least its a fun creepy story lol

[jaskiersvalley]

Hello!! 💕 Just wanted to let you know that I love your "Jaskier has always smelled of blood" au. It means a lot to me 💛 I feel like it brings some kind of awereness to the issue and I'm really gratefull for it. Thank you 💕

Nonnie, thank you so much for your kind words. That AU is one that I spent a lot of time mulling over and debating whether to write it or not. But given the fact that it means a lot to you, it was most definitely worth it. There is actually another topic that has been on my mind a fair amount that is as heavy as that AU, which is what happens when a suicide attempt doesn't succeed. Hopefully you won't mind if I write that as a little thank you for your lovely ask.

CW: Suicide attempt (overdose of Witcher potions)

Love wasn't meant to be part of a Witcher's life. That was what Eskel had always been taught and he accepted it as his lot in life. When he was younger, he had raged against it, tried to defy the truth. He attended parties, wooed and seduced wherever he went. Love never stuck but at least his lust was sated. Then Deidre happened and Eskel had a new reality to get used to, one where he was seen as monstrous, hideous and repulsive. Those were just Lambert's teasing words, trying to exaggerate and poke fun at the situation. Not that it helped. Suddenly, Eskel could only attend masquerade balls where his face was hidden from view for fear of upsetting humans. It was either that or finding hungry and desperate succubi who valued his Witcher enhanced attribute more than his visage. It didn't stop Lambert from cracking jokes.

"You don't have a succubi problem, you just have a succuebae. Get it? Before anyone else!"

It was easy for Lambert to say, brothels still took his coin if he wanted it. Though, by the sounds of stories, he didn't need to frequent such places, not when he had a Cat Witcher travelling with him and eager to share all aspects of the Path, not just the pay for contracts. Still, Eskel couldn't begrudge Lambert, he'd always had a shit lot in life. If he could buck the rule about love, good for him, he deserved that slice of happiness.

Then Geralt had to go and find himself a bard who was devoted to him. Eskel could smell the pining on Geralt over winters and then love when Jaskier finally spent the winter with them. That was fine too. Much like Lambert, Geralt also deserved someone to love and share his life with. Even multiple someones when Yennefer arrived and had no need of a room of her own.

It was fine. Eskel could be happy for them. He wasn't jealous, didn't feel like he'd been cheated out of anything. Those were thoughts he turned away from every night when he pulled his covers tight around him and pretended he didn't wish it was the warm embrace of a lover, probably much like the other two had.

Things got worse when Eskel started getting left out of things. There were games that the happy couples played in the evenings, something about how well they knew each other. It was raucous and fun by the sounds of it. Eskel stayed in the kitchen, cleaning because it wasn't a game he could play. The double dates looked fun, going out on rides. Once Yennefer even opened up a portal for them to spend a night away for some romantic getaway. The bard about Eskel bringing Lil Bleater had stung more than he cared to admit. Slowly, Eskel was forgotten. Vesemir had his books, was content with those and the letters he seemed to send. If Eskel was lucky, he'd end up like him. But Eskel didn't want to become Vesemir in his old age. Not even Vesemir really, not when Eskel didn't even have friends to exchange letters with.

The bleakness of it ate away at Eskel for years. Each time he returned to Kaer Morhen without a travelling companion, without someone to write to, he felt like a failure. To the point that he tried drinking, tried fisstech, anything to forget, even if just for a little while. Nothing worked though, every time reality caught up with him. There was only one solution he could see, one where there was no tomorrow to wake up to. It wasn't a rash decision, Eskel didn't immediately act on those thoughts. But his mind was made up and with that came a sense of relief. He had a few things to get in order, to figure out but there was now an end in sight, a way out and on his own terms.

One last winter he made the trek to Kaer Morhen. He had a tidy pack of coins, some truly excellent Gwent cards and a large stash of potions he had brewed up. All in all, he looked like he had a good year on the Path. Nobody needed to know that all his external riches were a façade for the poverty of his heart.

His plan was a simple one. It wasn't like a Witcher left a will or anything like that, his measly belongings got scavenged when he didn't return from a contract. That wasn't what Eskel wanted, he was going to make sure all his belongings were going to go to the person he wanted them to end up with. Which was why he started with Gwent. He played Geralt and, slowly but surely, lost all his best cards. Eskel prided himself in how he could play so well that they others believed he was having a bad run. Couple it with drinking some of Lambert's brew, it was an uproarious night full of laughter, friendly slaps to his back and loudly declared sympathy for his poor, alcohol addled brain.

Once the good Gwent cards were gone, Eskel switched out, claiming he needed someone lesser to play because Geralt was just too good. As predicted, Lambert took great offence at being called a worse player and shoved Geralt out the way. Eskel bet money, a nice pair of gloves and, in an almost unheard of turn, Scorpion.

"I needed to leave you with things to barter with for the rest of winter," he told Lambert with a smile. "Because I'll be winning it all back in the coming weeks, with interest on top."

The laughter that went up at that was nice. Eskel was satisfied all the worthwhile things in his possession had found good homes. Vesemir had already taken the spices and seeds he had returned with, along with the small mountain of foods that would keep them well fed over winter. What Eskel didn't expect was the hugs and pats to his back as they got ready to get to bed.

"It was nice to see you smiling and laughing again," Jaskier commented.

"This was like the old days," Lambert agreed, rubbing his knuckles over the top of Eskel's head viciously.

Aiden clasped his shoulder and gave it a squeeze with a smile. "Good to have you back."

It wasn't like Eskel had ever left, he had been there all those years, it was the others who didn't want him. It didn't matter now though. They'd had one final night together, it all went well. Eskel waved goodbye to them all, heart heavy but also light. He couldn't have asked for a better final evening.

Back at his room, he sat down on his bed and looked around. There wasn't much left. The furs and throws were all down in the communal areas, he'd migrated those down over the last couple of weeks. His armour wouldn't fit anyone and it wasn't suitable for reworking for the others. It would be the perfect thing to wear to his funeral pyre so he pulled it on one last time, taking a deep breath as the familiar scent of worn leather enveloped him. All the potions he'd brought back with him were lined up on his bedside table. He knew what he was doing. The others would understand, maybe even take it as the gift he meant it to be. He wouldn't be the odd one out anymore, the loner who brought the group down by hanging onto their coattails. They could have their double dates, their romantic getaways without having to worry about him or feeling guilty for leaving him behind.

The first potion was Cat, he downed it, feeling the world shift into larger clarity in the darkness of his room. It didn't sit heavy in his stomach, three potions were fine to take, four was when the toxicity began to affect him. Though Eskel was a large man, he could probably deal with about six potions before he became ill. It was why he had fifteen little bottles lined up, one worse than the other in terms of toxicity. Next, a Maribor Forest slid down his throat, followed by a Lapwing. They were all conflicting potions, making his body shake. Brock tasted foul but it was still better than Rook which made Eskel's heart pound. Taking a break, Eskel settled back on his bed, head spinning. He could feel his whole body shaking with unspent energy the potions teased out of him. It felt horrible, his stomach roiled. Without his attention on some creature and the fight for his life, Eskel couldn't help but focus on the way his joints seemed to itch, his muscles tingling.

Five potions weren't going to be enough. Reaching for another bottle, Eskel knocked back two Thunderbolts in a row. He gagged but pushed on, head swimming. Virga at least tasted a little better. It was wiped out by the Nekker Warrior Decoction. The world was fuzzy, Eskel whimpered a little as his muscles seized and cramped and his stomach ached. He'd rarely taken enough potions to even flirt with the edges of toxicity, to deliberately do it was agony. This wasn't how he'd expected it to go, he thought he'd take them, lie back and go to sleep. Pain was not part of the deal but he would shoulder it, this was his choice. A couple of the empty bottles clattered to the ground as he reached for the next one. Most of the Black Blood went down his chin as he spluttered. Leaning against the headboard, he closed his eyes, willing the wooziness to go.

Maybe to took more potions, maybe they were dreams, he didn't know. What Eskel did know was that he woke up in his bed, the sun shining bright in the sky. Head pounding and stomach churning, he could smell stale vomit in the air. Rolling onto his side, he threw up over the edge of his bed. Breathing shaky, Eskel coughed miserably and spat to clear the bitter taste from his mouth. Judging by the state of his floor, it wasn't the first time he had thrown up but it was definitely the only one he could remember. Flopping back onto the bed, Eskel covered his face with his palms and choked back on a howl of frustration. He couldn't even kill himself properly.

The problem was, Eskel had no plans for what to do if he failed. He'd been so certain that he would go to sleep and never wake up again. At a loss, he fell back onto habits and routine. He was already dressed in his armour which was acceptable clothing to go downstairs for breakfast. Nothing heavy, he couldn't face the idea of eating anything. But a drink of water would do him good. Stumbling into the kitchen, he grunted a greeting at the others who seemed to be having lunch. Of course they didn't notice he hadn't gotten up for breakfast. Either that or they just didn't care.

"You're dressed ready for war," Lambert joked but the smile on his face froze when Eskel looked at him. "Woah. You look like shit."

Geralt was out of his seat and grabbing Eskel by the chin, giving him a close inspection and a less than subtle sniff. Whatever he detected had him tensing up and glancing to Lambert who looked alarmed too.

"Let's get a bit of food in you," Geralt rumbled and guided Eskel to the table where Aiden's face turned stricken. Even Jaskier and Yennefer looked solemn, their usual rivalry nowhere to be seen. In fact, everyone seemed intent of giving Eskel the attention he didn't crave.

From the doorway, Lambert called, "Geralt" and stepped back. But the clink of bottles in his hand and the hushed, hurried conversation gave away the fact Eskel's dirty secret had been found out.

"I'll go clean the room but he's not going back there. Not alone," Lambert growled. The others around the table didn't even bother pretending they weren't listening in.

Vesemir's footsteps approached and Eskel wished fervently that the potions had done the job. Especially as he listened to the conversation.

"What's going on here?"

"It's Eskel he-" the clink of bottles followed again, Lambert no doubt showing Vesemir the evidence of Eskel's shame.

"I see." Vesemir rumbled softly and walked into the kitchen. He sat down next to Eskel, not saying a word. However, he squeezed his shoulder and swapped out the tankard of water for a warm tea, adding a dash of honey to it. "Geralt, get a Golden Oriole from the cupboard."

Eskel could only watch as it was added to his tea, heart sinking. Nobody said anything. Not even when Lambert returned, looking a little green in the face. He sat down, squirming in the silence.

"Are we not going to say anything about it?" He asked in the end. "We can't just pretend it never happened."

"We won't," Vesemir replied, voice warm but also full of warning. "But there's a time and place for everything. Right now, our priority is the physical. The Golden Oriole will help. Then Eskel will go and have a lie down in front of the fire to sleep and let his body heal."

It was so much easier to follow Vesemir's instructions than have to think for himself. Eskel hadn't thought he'd see the sun again, hadn't thought he'd have to worry about things like daily chores and ways to spend the long hours of a day. At some point he must have finished his tea because the mug was empty but Eskel didn't remember it. He was ushered towards the pile of furs and throws from his room and he sank into them, exhausted already. He was only half awake as he heard the conversation around him while a throw was carefully draped over him.

"How could he do this?" Geralt hissed, sounding angry for the first time. "Why would he do this to us?"

"I'm sure we'll find out." The reply from Vesemir was soft and calm. "But what we need to focus on is helping him realise it was a good thing he didn't succeed."

"What if he tries again?"

"We have to hope he doesn't. He won't be alone for the next few weeks, we'll take turns keeping him company. And hope that we can do enough to make him want to stay." Vesemir was oddly calm and resigned. "I've seen others do this before. We can only hope to counter the darkness that has befallen his mind."

Lambert joined the quiet conversation. "But he seemed so happy last night. In fact, he's been the most at peace in years. I thought he was getting better."

Even half asleep, Eskel could understand the words, appreciate the thoughts behind them. But he didn't know if the plan would work. He doubted the others would understand or would be able to do anything to help him. After all, they still had their partners, lovers and each other. All Eskel knew for certain was that if he tried again, he'd do something with an assured outcome. He just hoped the others would understand.

[kvgehiras]

can i request sleepover hcs with trickstar (separate)? i feel like they would be so much fun to be with... the new shuffle unit really woke up my inner trickstarP 🥺 (hope it's not too much to request all 😭)

HELLO !!! nd no it's ok !!!! it took me some time bcs i didnt . rlly know how to start out hokuto's part BUT IT'S DONE NOW !!!!!!! (also i hope u meant it in a setting where y/n nd the members r in a relationship (separately ofc) bcs that's how i wrote it so ye) hope yall like it ~

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

AKEHOSHI SUBARU

• he probably brought up the idea while u were accompanying him on a walk w daikichi

• u were talking abt how u brought these glow-in-the-dark stickers nd they remind u of him

• "it would b so nice if u could see it omg!!! but .... it's the best when u watch it right before u go to sleep.....nd ur probably busy :(("

• "????? LETS HAVE A SLEEPOVER THEN!!!!!!! W ALL THE SPARKLE SPARKLE STARS!!!! AAAAA IT WOULD LOOK SO PRETTY!!!!!!!!"

• nd ur just like :0 bcs u cant believe this dumbass . he has a live to perform in day after tomorrow but he's gonna have a sleepover........what

• "dw abt my live !!!!!!! ill tell hokke nd the others that i can't come today but i'll practice extra hard tomorrow !! they'll understand dw (*・∀-)☆"

• they didn't.....actually...but he cut the call on hokuto before they could get him to attend so uh-

• "anyways!!!!!!!! ^^^^^^"

• yall bring daikichi over too. it's not even a question daikichi is literally yalls child at this point but anyways

• he probably looks for board games for a good hour or two while u get some food for daikichi nd then get some food for subaru nd urself

• (he doesn't find it)

• u peek at the doorframe bcs for a while u keep feeling like someone has been watching u for a while now nd then boom . u see the other baby (read : subaru . main baby is daikichi, ofc!) pouting at u

• u laugh nd wipe ur hands on ur apron before ruffling his hair nd he goes

• "i can't find the board games :((((( y/n :(((((("

• surprise guessing game : whos the actual puppy? akehoshi subaru or his actual dog daikichi??????? it remains a mystery

• anyways u help him look for them nd after u hand him over the thing u get food for the both of u nd force him to eat atleast a bite bcs this bitch is too busy trying to win against u in snakes & ladders 😭😭😭

• "subaru.....pls....the food is getting cold....."

• "no i Know im gonna win!!! the sparkly stars r my good luck!!!! i know it!!!!!!"

• he.... doesn't win .....for the 5th time....

• so manz just gives up, noms all the sandwiches visible (aka his portion bcs u alrdy finished urs an hour ago JDJDKDN)

• nd then sleeps, still sulking

• yes it ends up in u guys cuddling under the glowy stars

• nd subaru thinks that mayb losing against u isn't that bad after all (´꒳`)

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

HIDAKA HOKUTO

• unlike subaru, this was actually a planned one

• u both had homework to do, u especially had a test tomorrow nd subaru just ditched the rest of trickstar to go hang out w someone else instead of their practice so ┐(´∀｀)┌

• hokuto appears at ur doorstep around 6:30pm, as discussed earlier

• "right on time!!!!!! so true hokke (´∀`)ｂ"

• he chuckles a lil as he closes the door behind him nd takes off his shoes

• "(y/n) u keep sounding like that masked pervert whenever u say smthg like that pls"

• u laugh it off nd then get him to the living room, where u two get ur books out nd then start studying

• hokuto asks if uve studied any material before to which u quietly reply no nd hokuto just goes

• "oh, that's ok… i think it will be good practice for me too if i taught u all this, right? so let's start, hm?"

• HOKKEEEEEEE ๐·°(৹˃̵﹏˂̵৹)°·๐

• sasuga hokuto kyun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

• anyways !! u guys (finally) start studying now!

• except…..except ur alrdy falling asleep……

• hokuto doesn't even realise this till he looks over to his shoulder bcs wow it suddenly feels heavy! wonder why!

• nd then boom ur face is an inch away from his

• poor hokuto his face gets all red and his ears r burning nd when he realises that ur sleeping he just . freezes

• doesnt even move fucking muscle

• mentally too manz just checks out NDNDNDJDJKS

• BUT IN HIS DEFENCE WHEN HE CAME TO UR PLACE HE DIDNY EXPECT THIS!!!!!!! HE EXPECTED TO STUDY ND THEN GO HOME YK!!!!!!

• poor guy he can feel how hard his heart is beating nd hes praying that u dont hear it nd wake up

• thank goodness ur a heavy sleeper……..nothing, nd i mean not even if boulder is dropped on u, can wake u up

• sasuga…..y/n……?

• anyways !!!!!

• u wake up at like . 2 or 3 am nd u find hokuto just closing his eyes shut, cheeks still bright red nd. WHYS HE SO CLOSE-

• o u fell asleep on his shoulder lol-

• U FELL ASLEEP?????

• u jerk back up nd apologise a million times for falling asleep even tho hes so desperately trying to teach u nd hokuto just tries to hard to explain that it's ok !!!!!!! (bcs he actually kinda . liked it . aaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAA)

• after much thought u guys just decided to go to sleep bcs ur too tired anyways so it's not like u would retain this info anyways

• nd it was a good decision bcs after waking up in the morning nd going thru his notes instead u actually aced the test !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! so true y/n !!!!!!

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

YUUKI MAKOTO

• this one….. it's like . neither planned or accidental?????

• it just happened????? yk?????

• he called u suddenly in the evening bcs he went to this new game shop that opened near his place right

• nd hes just like !!!!!!! y/n!!!!!!! uve got to check this game out !!!!!!

• nd so u go to his place to play the game nd u see that he just has everything prepared so u get the snacks that u got for both of u on a plate nd get some juice from his fridge nd start playing the game

• nd the game is rlly good !!!!!

• from the graphics to the boss music, makoto rlly knows ur taste

• (he blushes nd thanks u all flustered too hehe)

• nd after switching consoles nd playing the game for over 3 hrs, yes it's a pretty huge game, u finally reach the boss battle!!!!

• nd this . this scares u

• uve seen ppl on the net say that this battle will absolutely End u . periodt

• u never rlly understood why but holy shit u now do

• uve been trying to win against this bitch for AN HOUR at this point . why cant he just die

• poor makoto is just cheering u on in the bg bcs u refuse to let him help

• "y/n….(;´Д`)...... it's ok bb…...i'll finish this up for u…. it's like 4am we have class tomorrow- wait no it's actually today-"

• "makoto No u always help me in games let me finally win smthg for u !!!!!!"

• nd u point at his forehead nd poke it several times as u make ur point

• "ill win for u !!!!! ok!!!!! this stupid boss can never be as strong as my love for u !!!!!! (*｀へ´*) 彡3"

• nd hes just . looking at u all worried but he . he trusts u . so he lets u do it urself

• yes u lost even more times nd cried a lil out of frustration

• so at one point, instead of directly helping u, he just starts giving u directions nd at this point ur too tired nd exhausted to say anything so u just follow him

• (u also have ur head on his lap nd hes combing thru ur hair nd looking down at u like :') lmao what a lovebird)

• but when u actually beat the boss, finally, nd the screen says "win!" in huge yellow letters ur eyes go O.O

• nd u jump out of his lap, while he's still spaced out, combing ur hair nd hug him v tightly

• nd hes like ????? huh ???? wh wh wh ?????????

• nd u explain that u finally won nd u guys just rejoice lol

• then immediately fall asleep. both of u

• (u guys were late to school next day . sigh)

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

ISARA MAO

• unlike the other three, this man was actually dragged to ur place

• why? u might ask

• WELL THIS DUMB RAT IS BURNT OUT !!!!!! HE DOES TOO MUCH WORK ND HE DOESNT REALISE IT !!!!!!!!!!

• so after u guys r done w school, nd when u check in w his fam too that hes gonna stay at ur place (nd also that he has almost no work today, ofc) u drag him to an arcade nd hes like ???

• "today is a rest day!!!!!! so no work at all!!!!!!"

• u said this while pouting a bit so mao mostly thought u were joking

• but even after going to the arcade, going to the shopping mall nd getting snacks, going to the fast food place u guys visit alot nd getting food from there, his brain doesnt catch on that ur indeed not joking

• until it's been 3 hours at ur place, ur having the dinner that u guys had bought from the fast food place while watching a random movie that was airing on some channel that his brain suddenly went

• 'i know they were saying that this is a rest day nd ur not allowed to work probably as a joke but bro…. i dont think it's a joke anymore'

• this is so sad f in the chat for mao lol

• but also he doesnt bring it up bcs ur forcing him to watch musicals w u (some of ur favs) nd he... actyally likes it?

• he hasn't felt so ….relaxed in a very long time now that he thinks abt it

• nd he has to thank u for it yk

• nd so after the musical marathon ends, as he thanks u, he kind of just goes on a rant yk

• abt how he's feeling

• he never expected for this to happen but u tell him it's ok yk

• nd while he shouldn't burden himself w so much work, ur always open to listen to his thoughts, opinions, random bs, anything !!!!!!

• for hours u guys just have a very deep talk abt how guys have been doing nd mao feels like hes so so glad that u did smthg like this for him

• yall also go to bed early bcs mao alrdy has a bad sleeping schedule (so let's not make it worse!!!!)

• nd in conclusion, it was a v good day! now yall do this whenever either of u r feeling down or get burnt out lol

[bestiesenpai]

Gojo lyric challenge

I found this cute lil challenge on Pinterest! A picker wheel chose Gojo, I excluded repeating lines or else I would have gone mad, and the song I chose was medicine by shawn wasabi :)

“I’m so- so sick!” Sniffling like a toddler with a wicked cold on a Friday night wasn’t what you had in mind when you imagined how your weekend would go. Wrapped tightly in a blanket, you shivered on your couch as sweat began to form on your brow.

“How bad is it, (Y/N)?” Satoru asked over the phone, running a worried hand through his hair. You sounded awful, much worse than when he talked to you the day before. Your voice was shoddy and he could hear you breathing through your mouth.

“I’m cold sweating and I love it.” Rolling your eyes, you crumpled into the couch cushions with a groan. “One moment I’m hotter than ever, the next I’m colder than ice! I feel high, not sober.” Deflating even more, just being awake was a struggle for you right now.

“Want me to come over and bring you medicine?” His heart ached for you, and even though he was at the school it was the weekend, surely he could disappear for a few days with no issue?

“No, I don’t want you catching this.” Throwing the blanket over your eyes, you fought back the urge to sneeze. Satoru had begun speaking again but you were too busy scrunching up your nose to listen, head pounding from the effort.

“(Y/N), babe? You listeni-”

“Achoo!” Fumbling with your phone, the force of your sneeze - and the two that came after the first - was enough to push you further into the couch and fumble your phone, effectively hanging up on Satoru and dropping it between the couch cushions.

Ripping the blanket off your face, you blindly grabbed the box of tissues you left near you. There was snot pouring out of your nose, making your face irritated from all the rubbing you were doing.

Too numb to do anything else, you grabbed your phone and trudged to the bedroom, shivering with every pass of air against your face. Once in the dark room, the dull headache you had subsided slightly and you collapsed under the covers after taking a shot of cold medicine.

Tossing and turning in the night, your sickness felt like a fever dream that would never be over. With the medicine it was easy to fall asleep, but through the course of the night you woke up in a feverish fog, not fully conscious but enough to toss the blankets off your sweat covered body and then grab them again.

Waking up in the morning was a struggle, sleep still having a tight grip on you as your body tried to fight the illness. Your blankets were up to your chin, but there was sweat pooling in the ditches of your body.

Just as you were about to throw the blankets off your body and cool off, your phone began to ring, it’s incessant vibrating making the mattress shake.

“H-hello?” Fishing through your blankets, you grabbed it on the last ring.

“(Y/N)! Baby, how are you? I tried to call you back last night but you didn’t answer!” Satoru’s slightly scared voice spewed out over the phone. Taking a few deep breaths, you finally freed your body from the blankets.

“I’m wide awake in bed with my clothes on the floor.” You grumbled, looking to your side to see every article of clothing you went to sleep with in a pile. Satoru chuckled at your answer, relieved that you had survived the night without him.

“Let me come over today, please? I’ll bring some medicine and make some soup for you?”

“I don’t have anything to make soup.” Shivering as all the sweat evaporated away, you burrowed under the blankets again.

“I’ll go to the store.” Satoru answered immediately. There was a heavy pause as you thought over his answer, brain sluggish on forming words. “C’mon (Y/N), don’t leave me hanging. At least gimme a no.”

“I’m thinking.” You said with a whine, making Satoru laugh again.

“You really know how to test my patience.”

“If you come over you have to wear a mask, I don’t want you to get sick.” Now it was Satoru’s turn to whine. You could almost imagine him stamping his feet on the ground like a child and pouting.

“Fine, I’ll wear a mask. Now what kind of soup do you want, I’ll go to the store before I stop by.”

“Surprise me.” Ending the call with a curt grunt, you relaxed back into bed. There was no energy in your body, not even enough to grab the medicine off the bedside table or get a glass of water for your parched throat.

Falling back into a restless slumber, you slept through Satoru calling you once he was at the store and when he was outside your apartment. Luckily for him, he had a key to your place and was able to let himself in, tiptoeing quietly through your house.

“(Y/N)?” He called out for you, taking off his mask once he saw you weren’t in the lounge room or the kitchen. “Are you sleeping?” Walking to your bedroom, he grinned when he saw you passed out and drooling on your pillow.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, Satoru fixed your blankets and moved your body into a more optimal sleeping position, one where your neck wasn’t being strained in a weird way and your head was elevated to help you breathe.

“Satoru?” All your twisting and turning had left you tongue tied, mouth feeling incredibly dry as you said his name.

“Hey sleepyhead.” Leaning a little closer to you, he grinned widely at your confused face, his eyes searching you from behind the glasses he had on.

“P-put your mask on, dummy.” Fumbling to push him away, you grabbed the mask that rested on his chin and pulled it over his face. “You’ll get sick.”

“(Y/N), I already am sick.” Fixing the mask on his face, Satoru laughed. “You got me feeling lovesick.”

“Lovesick?” Rolling your eyes at the cheesy line, you couldn’t help the smile that spread on your face.

“Mhmm, and ooh baby do I love it!” Gripping his heart dramatically, Satoru delighted in the fact he got you to laugh. Even behind his mask you could tell he was smiling like a fool as he looked at you.

“So what did-” Your question was cut off by a gross, wet cough. There was sticky phlegm coating the back of your throat, and the force of your actions had snot running down your nose a little as well.

“Here, here.” Grabbing you a few tissues, Satoru sprang up from the bed. “I’m going to make you some tea.” Nodding as he left the room, you coughed into the tissues and blew your nose loudly.

With a spinning head and wobbly legs, you pulled yourself from bed and threw the tissues away, walking blindly to the bathroom to take care of the needs that you’d been ignoring in favor of sleeping.

“What’re you doing out of bed?” Standing at your empty bedside with his arms crossed, Satoru tapped his foot impatiently as you reentered the room.

“Pee.” You said with a sniffle and Satoru immediately dropped his arms, pulling back the covers to help you lay back down.

“I bought some really strong herbal tea from the store, an old lady told me it works really well for sickness.” Picking up the mug he left on the bedside table, Satoru blew away the steam billowing from the top.

“It smells horrible.” Even with your nose blocked you could smell how strong the tea was and your lip curled in disgust.

“I know, but it’ll make you feel better.”

“I don’t want it, Toru.” Your lip formed a heavy pout and you turned away from him, turning your back on the tea that you could smell even with your face pressed into a pillow.

“Just have a little bit, I promise you’ll feel better!” Tugging on your shoulder, Satoru eventually wore you down enough to make you turn over. With watery eyes and a soft glare you took the mug and took a drink of the tea.

“Oh I love how it tastes!” Nearly gagging on the strong taste, you swallowed down a big gulp to appease Satoru. Falling back down into bed, you rubbed a hand down your face. “Happy now?”

“Very. I’ll go start on the soup.”

“Did you get a recipe from that old lady?”

“No, the internet.” Flicking your arm, he left the room. You could hear him digging through a few shopping bags and banging pots and pans in the kitchen. The longer the tea sat in your stomach, the more it warmed you up and soothed your throat. Taking another sip, you slowly got up from bed.

“Hey, what’re you doing up?” Satoru peeked at you from the kitchen, his sharp blue eyes watching you trudge to the couch with a blanket wrapped around you.

“I’m bored just laying in bed sick.” Propping yourself up on cushions, you sank into the couch with a labored sigh. “So why not be sick out here?” Satoru chuckled, mumbling an agreement before returning to the kitchen.

Twenty minutes later, the soup was done. It was a simple recipe, one that Satoru didn’t need to fuss over too much in terms of prep. Carrying another steaming cup of tea in his other hand, he sat next to you on the couch.

“Here’s the soup, and more tea.” Sitting up slightly, you attempted to take the bowl from him. “Are you sure you’re feeling well enough to feed yourself?”

“Yes.” Right as you said it, a sneeze pushed your head back, leaving your temples throbbing.

“Mmm, I’ll help.”

“Whatever.” Sitting up more so he could feed you, you tried not to look at Satoru’s cheesy grin as you ate.

“Ya know, I don’t know if I’m supposed to like it this much, you being sick and all.” He cooed, setting the bowl down to give you some tea.

“If it was up to you, I’d never be getting better.” Taking a sip from the tea, it burned your tongue and made you wince. “I want more, more of the soup.”

“Of course, my love.” Bowing his head, Satoru picked up the bowl again. “Now here comes the airplane!”

Once all the tea and soup was gone, you curled into the side of the couch. Wrapped up tightly in blankets, you weren’t really paying attention to what was on the television. There were slow or sudden conversations that you couldn’t follow, words being spoken that went right over your head.

“How could you sleep with both my father and brother?!” The soap opera character on screen shouted angrily, getting ready to throw a drink at another.

“Toru, what am I watching?” Lifting up your heavy head, you looked to the other side of the couch, where the man in question was watching the show intently.

“Hell if I know but it’s pretty interesting.” He answered with a shrug, taking a glance at you. “Hey, why’re you so far away?”

“Because I’m sick.”

“I’m lonely.” He pouted behind the mask you insisted he keep on. “I want to hug you, you’re not feeling well.”

“Don’t touch me!” You shouted to the best of your ability with a painfully scratchy throat, but it was too late. Satoru was already leaning over to your side of the couch, encroaching on your space and manhandling you to the middle to lay on him.

“It’s always worth the wait, each time we touch.” Snuggling into your blanket clad body, Satoru let out a hum.

“Satoru Gojo, let go of me!” Attempting to wiggle out of his embrace was impossible, he had too tight a hold and your body wasn’t exactly at its strongest.

Your struggling made the blanket you’d wrapped around your head fall off, exposing your face and head to the cold air. Seeing the opportunity present itself, Satoru leaned down and kissed your forehead.

“Satoru! Why’d you kiss me you’re gonna get sick!” You watched in horror as he threw his mask onto the coffee table.

“You should know by now babe, all the rules are always bending, but only for us.” With a smug grin, he gave you another kiss before you could dodge him.

“The principal will be mad if you get sick because of me.”

“Eh, let ‘im. Who cares?” Leaning back, Satoru took you with him, moving more of you into his lap. “I’ll kiss you every day and every night, no matter the circumstance.”

“You’re so annoying.” Mumbling under your breath, you cozied up into his embrace more, no longer having the energy to fight it. Rubbing a hand up and down the full length of your back, Satoru let out a hum. It was quiet between you two for a few minutes, until a tickle in the back of your throat forced your body to convulse in a strong cough.

“Oh baby.” Satoru frowned slightly, giving you a few hard pats on the back. “Have a tissue.” He stuffed a couple in your hand, watching behind his glasses with concern in his eyes. “Hey, how often should you have medicine? I don’t think you’ve had any today.”

“Gi-ve me m-medicine twice a day. That’s what the label s-said.” You answered between coughs, fighting to catch your breath.

“Okay, one sec.” Shifting you off his lap, Satoru dashed to your bedroom to grab the bottle of medicine. When he came back, your coughing had subsided, but you were mentally drained from the ordeal.

“You’re too good to me, Toru, I’ve taken up your whole day being sick.” Dabbing at your watery eyes, you noticed the distinct lack of direct sunlight coming into the room. The sun was setting behind the buildings surrounding you, casting long shadows into your home.

“(Y/N), I don’t care. I won’t leave until you get better, I’ll stay forever if you let me.”

“Forever’s a long time.” You grinned, taking the tiny cup full of medicine that he poured for you and drinking it quickly.

“You make time feel never ending.” Satoru replied, getting comfortable on the couch with you again and cuddling you in his lap.

“You’re so cheesy.” Giggling at the line, you wrapped him in a hug. “Don’t be mad at me if I keep you up at night with my coughing.”

“Keep me up, I don’t mind.” Giving you a kiss on the cheek, Satoru hugged you back even tighter. “Just gives me more time to watch these stories.” He pointed to the TV right as two characters got into a fight.

“What a wonderful doctor I have.” Rolling your eyes, you lay your head in the crook of his neck, letting the dialogue from the TV become white noise and lull you to sleep.

[luna-jaden-shadow]

Dead On Arrival

Requests - My dude. My GUY. my friend. I’m having some Illinois feels. You know, a heist with markiplier. I was wondering if you could do one where the reader gets like blackout sick and passes out at the end of their adventure just as he grabbed the artifact or maybe on their way home from the adventure?? Anyway Illinois has to take care of the reader and it’s just a lil angsty and fluffy at the end when the reader finally wakes up.

Fluff Angst

Warning - None? 

Pairing - Illinois X Reader

-><-

-><-

You had a feeling that today was not gonna be your day. Every inch of your body hurt and your stomach felt like it was swirling like a witches brew since you woke up. Normal people would have stopped doing everything by now, called out of work, and laid in bed to die. You are not a normal person. In fact you are an adventurer along side your partner in crime, Illinois, so calling out sick was a no go.

The two of you were so close to the treasure of your latest adventure you didn’t want to drag him down with you. So you went along with it, putting on makeup to cover the fact that you were pale and took as many Ibuprofen as was recommended on the bottle. That brings us to right now, you and Illinois in a cave that holds the artifact that Illinois had been sketching for a while now. 

You were walking behind him, muffling any cough you had in your elbow as you went. Of course with Illinois there was a zero percent chance of stepping into a trap so it was a walk in the park “there it is.” Illinois smiles, getting up on this almost stage area and looking at the large gem that sits on a pedestal. “Beautiful is it not?”

You smile, nodding as you lean over a bit, hands on your knees. “Yeah Ill. Really beautiful.” You agree, swallowing hard. The feeling deep in your stomach was really starting to catch up with you as it now made your head spin, all the red flags were up. With the headache came the black spots in your vision.

Illinois stares at the gem a little longer before he looks to you. “Y/n?” He questions, tilting his head to the side. “Are you okay love?” He lowers the gem, moving to take a step towards you as you sway a bit. 

You shake your head. “Ill.” You call out to him before fall to the side. Illinois panics, setting the gem back down before he rushes to you. Your eyes were closed and the moment Illinois touched you you were cold. 

“Hey.” He shakes you a bit, pulling you into his lap. “Y/n? Wake up, come on.” He taps the side of your face, getting anxious when you don’t open your eyes or even move. “Come on baby.” He whispers before pulling you fully into his arms. Just as he stands up with you the ground shakes, making him curse. The trap for the gem had taken longer to activate then he thought it would. 

As fast as possible, Illinois finds himself running out of the cave with you in his arms. The whole time he swears his heart’s about to burst out of his chest. He could hear the floor crumbling behind him as he reached the entrance to the cave, nearly jumping out of it as the cave caved in. 

Illinois glances down at you, adjusting his hold on you before placing a kiss to your head. “I got you my love.” He promises before he starts his rush back to the little town you two had been staying in. 

The next time you opened your eyes was to see Illinois, asleep with his head on your lap, sitting in a chair beside the bed you were now laying in. His hat was sitting on the table beside the both of you. Gently, you brush your hand over his head, pushing the hair from his closed eyes. “Illinois.” You smile at him as he grumbles in his sleep, slowly waking up. “Hey you.” You greet when he opens his eyes. 

“Hey.” He yawns, stretching his arms above his head. “How are you feeling my love?” He questions, looking at you with concern. 

You shrug, running you hand through his hair. “I’ve been better. What happened?” Illinois bites his lip for a moment before meeting your eyes. 

“You fainted. I thought you died darling.” He confesses. “The cave started to fall apart, I had to get you out of there. I left the gem.” He laughs a bit at the end. 

“I’m sorry Ill-”

“No, it’s fine. You always come first my dear. Always.”

Tag(s):

@superfan163​

[iloverubberduckiez-blog]

Partners- Reader x Hybrid!Maknae line

A/N: Don't know if ill write more and make a Lil series or keep this as a drabble

WC: 4k

Warnings:Fluff, possible smut if i continue. 

Rated: PG 13 i guess

After another long day at your shitty desk job as a secretary, you were on your way out when you get stopped by the department head.

“Hey Y/N, I'm glad I caught you!”

You inwardly groaned. All you wanted to do was to go home to your beautiful hybrid who you knew would no doubt whine about you coming home late. 1000 bucks says Mark was here to tell you that you would be delaying that peace a little longer.

“Mark please I am tired and I already worked two hours over today”

“Sorry Y/N. I have to stay too. We are expecting some big shot from the main branch and you and I get to personally oversee all things pertaining to him when he gets here. He’s gearing up to take over HQ as the new CEO”

“Oh my- No way.”

“Yup. Jackson Wang”

“Damn. well, he is super hot so I'm doing it for him, not you. When do we need what?” 

“He doesn't get in till next week so we will have time to prepare. Just letting yo know you can pass on the DRASS project to Amaya.”

“What no way that project is mine, it's literally all I've worked on for months-”

“And I know you were super excited to fly back to Kenya to help those people and see it through. I promise you will get full credit but We need this, trust me Jackson says he wants to pick his personal team from within the company. If we do well enough this will be the push we need and could select us as candidates.- You have a hybrid right? well, I have a family of five, and having extra money in the bank whether it's just a bonus for this or a whole new position will help us both and you know it.”

“okay” You relented with a sigh taking the folder from his hands.

“You should rest up this weekend so that we can meet up a little early next week to go over what needs to get done and how we can prepare for everything.”

“so i can go home now?”

Mark chuckles and nods. “ Run along, give your boy a hug from me” Mark kisses your forehead as has been the norm and walks away with a small wave towards his own car.

Leaving the office you groan after seeing the traffic. It was going to be a slow crawl in the car for like an hour before you make it back home.

“Y/N!” You didn't even unlock the door before you were bombarded with the full weight of the handsome hybrid you share a home with.

“Where were you? I was waiting for you for so long. I got us dinner but its all cold now” His voice a little muffled as he spoke into your hair.

“oh what did you eat?”

Taehyungs tummy growled.

 “I didn't. I wanted us to eat together because i got Lasagne, your favourite.” His tail which was wrapped around you as he had hugged you fell to the floor in sadness.

“I’m so sorry Tae.” You looked up to find his ears flattened on his head as his arms drop from your shorter frame. 

Taehyung’s eyes meet yours as he feels how your guilt seems to seep through and he gives you his beautiful signature boxy smile before picking you up and carrying you into your apartment.

“It’s okay Y/N we can reheat it.”

You kiss him on the check and go into your room to change into something comfortable before joining Tae back in the kitchen and sitting on one of the stools.

“Wine M’lady.” Taehyung poured two glasses and reached for your hand leading you to the couch.

“c’mon it will take a while to heat nicely in the oven.”

You nodded and followed him hi sat first then pat his lap. You looked at him questioningly.

“First my favourite meal and then expensive wine? It's not my birthday Tae.By the way this wine is like 1922 grade $400 bucks stuff how in the world did you get some?”

Taehyung chuckled.“I just wanna sit and cuddle with you and have a nice evening together plus you smell like a squirrel.”

You caved and snuggled beside Taehyung instead of on his lap but he just pulled you closer to him nuzzling your hair and drawing little patterns on your arms.

You inwardly facepalmed, of course, Tae’s sensitive nose picks up on all the people from work and apparently most pungently your intern who had sent his Squirrel hybrid to give in some documents to you halfway through a meeting - “I can go take a shower-”

“No don't go please i just missed you a lot today is all.”

“ You sure? Nothing else? Nothing bothering you?”

“Nothing at all.”

It was not nothing.

Taehyung had spent the better part of the morning crying his eyes out after overhearing your conversation to Seokjin. He didn't mean to eavesdrop, in fact, he was going to come and give you a hug good morning but what he heard made him stop dead in his tracks. 

“He’s a beautiful Calico cat Y/N, i think that it could be a good match for you. You did say you had always wanted a cat right? well this is your chance and he will dote on you hand and foot- you work too much honestly when do you take time to read and breathe?”

Tae robotically walked away tail tucked in between his legs and retreated to the bathroom He didn't bother with the rest of the conversation he was just numb. He turned on the shower but made no other moves towards actually showering. All he could think of was that maybe you were trying to replace him, that he wasn't enough for you or maybe that he was just too much and you didn't love him anymore. He heard you knock on the door announcing your departure for work but he couldn't bring himself to respond. After crying for what felt like hours Tae looked at his phone. You had sent a message.

“Tae,

Had to leave early,U might not have heard me in the shower.Take care. Y/N”

Taehyung felt morose. No “I love you” or cute emoji. He sighed and went to your room. Laying on your bed he snuggled up to one of your pillows and managed to fall asleep. It ended up only being a nap as Taehyung woke around an hour later. Eyes still puffy and with a sniffle, he sat up determined and decided to do something special for you.

“Hey Hyung”

“What do you wan- Is Y/N Okay? Did you start a fire again?”

Taehyung deadpanned. “Hyung that was one time!”

“Okay, what's wrong little brother?”

Taehyung whined. he felt the beginnings of tears stirring up again.

“come over. Hoseok has a day off today. Or do you just wanna talk to me?”

“I’ll be right there”

Yoongi sighed rubbing his fingers over his temples. Hoseok was currently now consoling his little brother who after regaling his story managed to upset himself and break down into full-blown tears again.

“I knew something was up I *Hic* didn't think she, we would ever be apart” 

Yoongi sat on Taehyungs opposite side and pulled him into a hug after wiping some of his tears.

“It’s just a big misunderstanding okay she is just working really hard she’s not trying to abandon you.”

“Hyung you don't know that. Easy for you to say because you have Hoseok- Hyung.”

“And it's only because of her that I got adopted by him remember? She wanted us both but she didn't have the means to look after both of us so she called all her friends willing to take a hybrid on and then she said that she was sorry she couldn't do more but at least we would be able to see each other. She’s the reason we can still talk, see each other despite being separated, and hang out.”

Hoseok nods, “She got an extra bed in your room too for Yoongi to come to stay over whenever he wanted and she gave him the spare key remember? I don't even have a spare and I've known her longer-”

“she likes us better” Taehyung and Yoongi snapped to Hoseok at the same time.

Hoseok laughed. “well glad to know where I stand. I wouldn't hold it against you if you moved now, she earns enough to support you now...so if-”

Yoongi smiled “You would be hopeless without me and you know it.”

Hoseok scratched behind Yoongi’s ears and with a smile, he began “Well if you want my advice on this-”

“We don’t,” The hybrid brothers said again in unison.

Hoseok rolled his eyes and mumbled about getting something to eat and calling Seokjin to figure out what was going on.

Yoongi’s heart was aching for Taehyung. He wanted nothing more than to see his beautiful smile again.

“Y/N likes Lillies why don't you buy her some and like welcome her with those and some chocolates or something when she gets home?”

Taehyung sighed. “I thought about that but it feels too simple and like something anyone could come up with.” His eyes glazed over to the Tv where a couple was horseriding on a ranch. Immediately Taehyung lit up.

” That's it!”

“Tae we can't buy a horse ranch, even with all three of us chipping in”

“Not the ranch Hyung. Y/N likes this special wine that you can only get at a few places. If I get her a bottle and cook her a fancy dinner she can remember why she only needs me.”

Hoseok came back to the living room.

“oh, I have a bottle from the last time we went to the ranch as a group the chateau right? I was gonna wait for her birthday and surprise her but you can have it Tae,”

Taehyung glomped Hoseok in gratitude.

“cant breathe Tae”

“sorry.”

Yoongi stood up scrolling on his phone. “what did Soekjin say?”

Taehyungs smile dropped and his face morphed into nervous worry. Yoongi placed a comforting hand on his brother's shoulder expecting bad news from the way he reacted.

“He is out of town for the weekend. Some big trip so I could only leave a voicemail. It’s probably nothing. Anyway, you should go on and get dinner ready for Y/N before she gets home right?”

Taehyung brightened a little and skilled nodding. Before he left Yoongi said he should probably order food so he doesn't poison you or set the place on fire. He left feeling optimistic and hopeful that he could mend things with you. He wanted to help take better care of you he promised himself.

You woke up to the smell of burnt pancakes and Hot chocolate. Following the scent, you found Tae in the kitchen attentively staring at the pancake until a small ding went off on his phone. Shutting off the timer he placed a layer of batter where the last pancake just lay and set the timer again. You watched him fondly before he plated this one and poured honey over it. Putting the plate on a tray with the precut fruits and hot chocolate his ears went up as he sniffed the air. Turning around he saw you in the doorframe.

“Y/N...i-i made breakfast” He hastily grabbed your hand and led you back to you room tucking you in, before rushing out and bringing the tray with him.

Your heart swelled at this blessing of a man in front of you and he watched with rapt attention as you cut off a piece of the pancake before placing it in your mouth.

“How is it?” His ears sagged over his head expecting rejection.

“I can make you an omelet instead if you-”

“Taehyung it's the best pancake I’ve ever eaten.”

He buried his face in your pillow at your praise, tail wagging happily. You offered him a strawberry and a piece of the pancake and he hummed happily.

After sharing breakfast together you spent the day spring cleaning together before spending the rest of the day on a movie marathon. On Sunday You were both invited to game night at Hoseoks and You and Tae were a dynamite team as usual with Yoongi coming in to troll Hoseok much to his displeasure.

“I look forward to working with you further Mr wang.” you held out your hand. Jackson laughed and gave you a hug instead. 

“No way just call me Jackson. I’ve been friends with Mark forever so any friend of his is a friend of mine, also you come at a right recommendation, which is surprising cos he can be a bit of a downer.”

“I’m right here you know!” 

“I’m so grateful for you for doing this at such last minute. i know it was a lot to organise in the given time frame Y/N.” 

“Not at all, Mr wa- Jackson.”

You all stayed in his office with some comfortable banter before going home.

Taehyung called over to you and began to advance happily towards you before he stopped and sniffed you strangely. You wanted to ask him what the problem was but your phone chimed. it was Soekjin- he was calling you. You declined the call because you remembered you needed to tell Tae what was going on so that you could get his opinion on things.

“It might be urgent, if he keeps calling you like that. Go see what your human friend wants.”

“Do you not like Jin? Since when? Tae what’s-”

“You’ve been talking a lot to whoever lately and you smell like a new scent and a hybrid and I feel tired so I’ll probably just go hang out at Hyung’s.”

“No wait Taehyung I’m not trying to have secrets or hide anything from you but there is something important I need to tell you.”

Taehyung huffed and went to go sit down as you took his hands in yours. He looked like how you found him 2 years ago a wounded puppy with eyes full of love and brimming with sadness.

“Things are a bit crazy at the shelter and Jin needs help in housing some of the Hybrids temporarily. Some can go to other shelters but some need a more... loving environment, calmer without the more violent hybrids sharing with the weaker type ones. I offered to take two of them in while he figures everything out. I know its a lot and if you don't want to, we will just stay just us but if Jin is overcrowded he’s at risk of getting shut down and then they could all end up on the streets I-”

“It's okay.”

You blinked. “Huh?”

“It's just temporary, right? I can understand that we shouldn't let anyone be on the streets if we can help.”

“really? you’re fine with this?”

“It’s...I will be able to deal with it. But I want strawberry cake and I’m not sharing”

“Of course Tae. Guess I should call Jin and tell him the great news!” You chirped and went to grab your phone. You didn't notice the sheer rejection that he tried to hold in.

Jungkook and Jimin stood behind Jin. The latter holding Jin’s shirt as he explained some of the pills he had brought along for their nutrition and bringing along some bags with groceries. You reached to take it and Jungkook took them all in your stead silently trying to minimize eye contact with you.

“Thank you Jungkookie.”

Embarrased, Jungkook stuttered out. “I-Its the least I can do after you are being so kind.” You practically melted and pet the Muscle bunny softly at the base of his ears and he stomped his foot a little and grinned showing his toothy smile.

Jimin, not to be outdone, said he could help you pack everything away and let go of Jin who was trying to remain them of something that they were tuning out in their silent contest to impress you. You tried to place a jar on a shelf too high and fell back into JK who caught you and placed it up for you instead. Jimin began whining that he could have done it for you but he was busy with the things in the fridge.

Taehyungs loud sneeze broke up the rowdy lot of you.

Jungkook gripped your waist in fear and stayed behind you as you faced Taehyung. Jimin in shock had hit his head on the shelf of the fridge and tried to catch some of the items that threatened to spill out.

Tehyung seeing Jungkook’s hand on your waist had yanked you out of his grasp and began scenting you and sending a snarl their way.

You sighed. This was how Taehyungs been acting ever since you started the project with Jackson. Pretty much anything could set him off but you felt bad because you should have been more understanding of how this may look in his eyes.

“ Jin, Rabbit, feline”

“Tae, Longtime! Sorry if we woke you. this is Jungkook he's a black Holland Lop and Jimin is a calico cat.”

“I’m Y/N’s Siberian husky.” Tae said to the other two before looking back to Jin.

“ I was awake- Hyung i was finishing the laundry for the new...guests.”

You spun around in his arms to face him. Petting his ears as he cooed into your touch “Aww Tae I told you I’d manage it”

Jin’s ringtone killed the silence and he dashed out telling you to call if any problems arose.

Thereafter you got the boys settled into Taehyung’s room. With a sigh you went and faceplanted into your sheets only to have Taehyung come and crawl beside you. After half an hour when you tried to get up Taehyung just grumbled and  held you tighter.”

“Tae i have to go to”

“work I know” He said with a sigh reluctantly letting you go. 

“Today’s a chilled day we will be done early. Besides, you guys can use this time to bond and make friends.” At his whine, you kissed the top of his head. “ please? For me, try?” 

Six weeks later all of you have somewhat of a comfortable rythym in the household. On a day off you decided it would be fun to go to the beach. Jimin offered to pack a picnic for everyone and Jungkook and Taehyung were moody on the drive over because they didn't think of it first. You had also told him since he was so helpful he could sit in the passenger seat and Jimin spent the whole ride grinning like the cat who got the cream.

Once there you were happy to let the boys wander off to their heart's content after setting up your belongings under a beach umbrella.

Jungkook had other plans. He worked very hard on his physique and although shy he still remembers the first time he came back shirtless from a run and found you on the couch. You tried to hide it but He knows you checked him out and you were definitely attracted to him the way your eyes hungrily racked over his body. Since that day he would be on the lookout for any golden opportunities to be close to you. Honestly, Taehyung had it made. You were kind, smart, hardworking, and breathtakingly beautiful. So often he dreamt of you as his and he knew the others thought the same. Officially though he was still a foster, Jimin had reminded him that morning and their place here wasn't secured so Jimin said he was gonna up the Ante. At first, Jungkook ignored him and went to shower but when he emerged to the sound of you praising Jimin for coming up with such a cute and thoughtful idea, He knew he needed a plan of his own. 

Taehyung excused himself for the bathroom and Jimin was looking around for the cooler box. He decided to go and check in the car leaving Jungkook alone with you. This was his moment. He stripped himself of his shirt and innocently asked if you would come to the water with him. He rationalized his need for an escort being that he was not used to such big crowds of people and thus managed to convince you out of your sundress to reveal your bikini and guide him by the hand towards the water.

Jungkook was Jungshook at the two-piece and how you looked in it enjoying the view until some guy came out trying to talk to you. That snapped him out of his daze and he flung you over his shoulder and bolted into the water trying to shield your body for his admiration alone. You were having a ball of a time and Jungkook got to stay near you and hold you claiming to save you from sharks if you found any.

Jimin had stomped away to the car and after retrieving the cooler box which he was pretty sure Jungkook was supposed to carry happily bounded to the store to get ice for the drinks on the way back. He also spotted a local artist doing caricatures and thought to remember to bring you over later for a couple picture together. He knew you weren't a couple but Jimin was smitten for you. He was slightly confused as to why Tae didn't have a romantic relationship with you, or at least you weren't his mate so he still had a shot. The only thing in his way now was the little maknae and his cute bunny-like stupid smile and ‘helpful groping’. Jungkook certainly wasn't shy in trying to subtle scent you when you were distracted anymore, not like how it was when they first arrived. No, they had gone from not trying to interfere with your and Tae’s relationship to wanting their own with you, a romantic one. The mystery now was why arent you and Taehyung together? Was it because he was a hybrid or was he just not the right guy? did you reject Taehyung before? Did you get rejected by Taehyung and now he regrets it and wants you back? Jimin didn’t care he wanted you and that was final. Even if you never returned his feelings even just being by your side could be enough for him, enough that he could get over sharing your affection with Taehyung after all he was the first even if he hates to admit it.

Taehyung almost dropped the Icecream cones in his hands.

 Its been so long since you two had come to the beach, in fact, the last time was when Yoongi had hinted at you two being an adorable couple. Taehyung had gotten you ice cream to share and you had some dribble down from your mouth to your chin. Taehyung did it before his brain was able to process the action, he licked a stripe from your chin to your lips lingering for a second before placing a chaste kiss there. You were embarrassed, to say the least, and Tae hid his own embarrassment by getting up to toss a ball back to a bunch of kids playing volleyball. When he came back he noticed you with some of Yoongi’s cocktail and the two of you managed to finish the jug just between the two of you. Later at home Yoongi and Hoseok took to the twin beds in Tae’s room and you pulled him into your room. Tae had discovered you were really handsy and although he wanted you so badly you were both too drunk to do more than sleep after a sloppy makeout session. The next morning you had woken up first and Left some water and ibuprofen with an apple by his side. His morning wood making him panic in short horror prompting a quick cold shower. While he discarded his clothes he saw your underwear that you had slept in still coated in fragments of your arousal, on top of the laundry hamper and grabbed it as he stepped in the shower. It was the first time he had taken your underwear.

Yoongi had told him then to let you bring it up- the idea of you guys figuring out what you want moving forward as it was clear to him and Hoseok that you two were lusting after one another but was it anything more? Taehyung was in the midst of figuring out his feelings for you and what everything meant and how things were going to be different but you came in the apartment with breakfast goodies in tow. You managed to still look effortlessly beautiful in the morning and Tae was so happy that you got him his favourite things for breakfast from your waffle house.

“Tae, I’m so sorry about yesterday i was super drunk”

“I was drunk too Y/N its fi-”

“No it’s I'm sorry can we just forget this all happened i don't want to loose you Tae I love you. Can we move on please?”

Taehyungs heart shattered across the floor but he nodded and to put insult to injury you kissed his cheek before scolding Hobi for drinking The hot chocolate you meant for Taehyung and yourself.

“I’m sorry lil bro. If you wanna stay with us we can share my room, i have a double bed and Hobi can-”

“Its okay Yoongi- Hyung. I can keep it together for now, ill give it some time and if that doesn't work I’ll confess and we work from there. For now, her loving me is enough, even if its just friends. This love and adoration from her is enough.”

It’s Not Fucking Enough. Not anymore. That was then when he had you all to himself, No new boss keeping you at work always hugging you, No Bunny, no Cat. No it was war now, and Tae has just about reached his limit.

[sleepless-in-starbucks]

I was browsing your blog and I saw an anon mention "sick of losleep" (but in a joking way) my gay ass saw losleep sick, as in a sick fic, and i proceeded to scroll hoping to find said losleep sicfick, lol there was non and that is a crime XD. Would you write (or do you have any HC's) for like Sick Remy and Lo taking care of him?😎

This is WAY late and I apologize for that anon but I’m here now so!! enjoy!!

Ao3Warnings: This is a sickfic so lots of sicky stuff (cough, sneezing, fever actually happen; nausea mentioned), sleep-deprivation (Remy’s a double-threat), minor self-deprecation from both Logan and Remy for different reasons, Logan calling Remy names but in a worried loving way

“You’re sick.”

“Nope.”

“Whether or not you are willing to accept it does not alter the state of your condition.”

“Yeah. And my condition is completely amazing and awesome. Not sick.”

Logan frowned when this rather cocky pronunciation was followed by a round of rough coughing from his boyfriend. “Attempting to ignore your illness will only worsen it. Something it seems you have already done. How long have you been sick?”

“Never.” Remy replied, too confidentially given he looked ready to collapse if a light breeze blew against him. He coughed again, wincing a bit before he added defensively, “Though I might have gotten a bad headache on Monday.”

“Monday?!” Logan repeated, giving up his pretense of only being vaguely annoyed. “You’ve been suffering with this for four days?! With, what, your average seven hours of sleep each night?”

“...Seven might be a little high.”

Logan only blinked at Remy, the other boy awkwardly scratching at the back of his neck. Logan was spurred back into action when Remy sneezed and immediately went back to coughing, moving forward so he could grab Remy’s arm, fairly certain the other really would collapse otherwise.

“Bed. Now.” Logan said, tugging firmly at Remy, towards their apartment’s bedroom.

“Hun, really, I’ll be fi-” Remy started, pulling his arm out of Logan’s grip. The moment he did, however, his feet caught up around each other, both illness and his much too common habit of not sleeping nearly enough stealing his balance from him as he tripped backwards.

Logan had already seen something of the sort happening, catching Remy before he had a chance to actually hit the ground. Lowering the two of them to the ground from there, Logan sighed when he realized that, as well as physically fallen, Remy had also fallen unconscious.

“An idiot.” Logan muttered to himself as he took the opportunity to rest his hand on Remy’s forehead, feeling much too hot. Fever. “I’m in love with an idiot, an utter idiot, a fool.”

Though maybe the blame didn’t fall solely on Remy this time. After all, only a moron would miss the paler-than-average skin, the way Remy had been hugging his jacket closer around him while constantly taking advil, the fact that he had been coughing so much for so long.

What could he say? Remy wasn’t exactly the role model of ‘living healthy.’ Him acting weird was normal.

But still. Logan should have noticed sooner.

Sighing, Logan removed Remy’s sunglasses as well, wincing at how badly the bruise-like bags under his eyes stood out against his sick pallor. Sick or no, it was most certainly bedtime for Remy.

~~

The first thing Remy registered as he woke up was that he felt like hell. Which wasn’t exactly anything new- his head really had been pounding since Monday, and every day that followed had only added to his roster of symptoms: coughing, sneezing, chills, nausea. The works.

He knew he should have taken time off sooner, but he and Logan needed the money, and he had never been one to admit defeat- especially not to a stupid cold!

Remy wasn’t one hundred percent sure what the last thing that happened was, but he was pretty sure it was the ‘stupid’ cold punching him right in the gut and then laughing for a while.

So why, along with all the pain, did he feel... slightly okay?

Remy blinked open his eyes, glaring at the light that immediately assaulted them and forcing them shut again. Memories, albeit fuzzy, of his last waking interactions came with the too bright light, though they ended with what Remy was pretty sure him falling on the floor.

Did the ground always feel this soft?

Remy risked opening his eyes again, the light more manageable this time, frowning as he pressed his hands down and found them meeting strong, but not complete, resistance from whatever he was laying on, and something on top of them moved.

Oh. He was in a bed.

Remy’s frown deepened. He couldn’t be in bed! He had to get to work! He probably hadn’t even collapsed at all, just dreamed it up, stupid weak body trying to trick him into sleeping in. Well it wasn’t going to work, Remy vowed as he started to sit up, ignoring both the way his stomach flipped and his head pounded at the movement. That wasn’t going to stop him!

What was going to stop him, however, was the sudden weight that pressed against his chest, pushing him back down onto the bed. A blur of very familiar colours appeared in his line of sight, then, leaning over him while they spoke, saying something Remy couldn't completely hear but was rather sure was some form of a lecture on his lack of personal health care.

“-a reckless fool, pretending you’re not sick, not telling me; your heroic wannabe of a brother is a horrible influence on you-”

Remy fought the urge to chuckle only because he knew it would turn into a cough. Logan kept speaking, still in the descriptive nicknames part of his rant as he pressed something cool to Remy’s forehead. Even as Remy suppressed another shiver, he sighed at the relief of what he assumed to be a cold, damp rag brought to what he was finally willing to admit was his fever.

Logan stopped talking at this, just sighing as well and resting his hand on Remy’s cheek, stroking his thumb slowly across Remy’s face.

“You worried me.”

Remy pressed his cheek closer to Logan’s hand. “Sorr’babes.” He slurred.

“It’s... it’s alright, Remy, I just want to know what possessed you to make such a foolish decision.”

“’Don’t need to be sic’ to make foolish decisions.”

“More foolish than usual then.” Logan amended, and Remy snorted, immediately regretting it when the pounding in his head increased with the action. Logan paused in moving his thumb for a moment, continuing when Remy had once more settled down.

“I didn’t think t’was that bad.” Remy said quietly after a moment had passed. “Thought it was justa lil cold.”

“I know.” Logan responded. “But still. You’re my boyfriend. A particularly self-neglectful one at that. If you get sick, I want to know. Even if you think it’s nothing, or just a head cold, or anything else. It’s important to me that I can take care of you when you’re not feeling well.”

Remy didn’t say anything immediately afterwards, instead just looking at the mostly-focused blur that was his boyfriend and trying to ignore the fact that his eyes were suddenly stinging. He refused to cry over something as silly as affection, especially when it was as simple as ‘it’s important to me that I can take care of you when you’re not feeling well.’ He didn’t roll like that.

“Aw, you care.” He finally said, cooing as he smiled loopily at Logan. Logan just rolled his eyes fondly.

“For your sake, you are very lucky that I do.”

“Of course, hun.” Remy said, tone slightly more serious, though he was still too tired for much emotion outside of ‘sleepy’ and ‘sappy.’  “A’ways lucky to’ave you.”

“That you are.” Logan confirmed with a smile. The silence stretched for a few more moments before Logan murmured, “You should get some more rest.”

“Mmhmmm.” Remy hummed. More rest sounded good. It sounded very good. And so tempting to just close his eyes and let himself drift away…

Realizing that Remy was fading fast, Logan stilled his hand on Remy’s cheek, leaning in a bit so he could press a small kiss to his forehead. Remy made a small happy noise at that, and Logan patted his cheek in response. After the pat, however, Logan started to pull his hand away, mumbling quietly about starting up some soup.

Remy struggled to get his eyes open again, able to catch (to his immense disappointment) the sight of Logan shifting to stand up and head towards the kitchen. “Wait.”

Logan stopped, turning back to Remy, brow creased in concern. “Yes?”

“I-” Remy cut himself off, frowning. He looked away from his boyfriend, glanced back, looked away again. “Nevermind.”

Logan’s frown deepened as he came back over to the edge of the bed, sitting back down and brushing stray hair out of Remy’s eyes as he watched him, looking for an explanation. “What is it, darling?”

Remy shook his head, just barely. “Nothin’. Go do your thing.”

“It’s not nothing.” Logan corrected gently. “I wasn’t joking when I said I wanted to take care of you. What do you need?”

“...You’ll get sick.” Remy said, slowly, hunching his shoulders a little bit in an attempt to curl into himself without moving too much.

“I’ve been with you since you got sick, sharing an apartment with you, I carried you in here after you went and collapsed, and I just kissed you.” Logan listed off. “Don’t worry about me; I’m already doomed. Right now, I’m worried about you.”

Remy finally looked back at Logan, finding his boyfriend still frowning at him, still concerned. He really didn’t deserve him.

“Stay with me?” He finally asked, voice quieter than it had been since he woke up, feeling more than a little abashed at asking. He wasn’t a clingy boyfriend, in general. He preferred the aloof angle, preferred acting like the reason he sprawled across the whole couch was to be annoying, not to ensure Logan would have to sit near to him, and the like. He didn’t ask for stupid sappy things like ‘stay with me.’

But right then and there he was sick, he was tired, and he felt as if he was positively going to die if Logan left and took all his soft warmth with him.

Logan’s frown was quickly replaced by a gentle smile at Remy’s request.

“Of course I’ll stay.” He promised easily, his hand sliding down from Remy’s hair to once more cup Remy’s cheek. “Can I at least start the soup first? I’ll be very fast, I promise.”

“Do you have to?” Remy asked, voice even quieter, almost a whimper. He didn’t know why it mattered so much to him. It would just be a minute or two. But he didn’t want Logan to go at all, even for a second.

“I don’t.” Logan soothed, his other hand moving to rub Remy’s arm. “I’ll stay right here with you, alright?”

Remy nodded his head, already feeling his eyes start to slip shut, unworried about having to stop Logan from leaving again. He vaguely recognized Logan shifting onto the bed, pulling Remy’s head into his lap, once more combing through his hair with one hand and still running a hand over Remy’s arm.

“M’sorry for bein’ so needy.” Remy slurred, quickly losing the battle against remaining conscious and not minding that much. Logan just shushed him and continued petting his arm and hair, beckoning Remy to fall asleep even faster.

“You’re tired and weakened by your illness.” Logan said factually. “It’s normal. It’s alright. Get some rest. It’ll be okay.”

Remy nodded once as he pressed his head closer to Logan’s thigh. Logan was warm and soft, and Remy felt safe with his head nestled in his lap and held close to his boyfriend. Eyes completely shut and any reason to remain awake completely eliminated, he drifted off within a minute, feeling secure and loved.

Maybe, just maybe, the next time Remy got sick, he’d let Logan know.

[nalgenewhore]

There came a knock on her door and Elide struggled out of bed, where she had been attempting to sleep since she had called out of work. 

Shuffling at a pathetically slow pace, her fleece blanket wrapped around her shoulders, Elide moved through her apartment to the front door, not even bothering to look through the peephole like she usually did. She opened it to find her boyfriend standing there, his cheeks and the tip of his nose red from the cold Terrasen winter storm raging outside. He smiled, “Hey, you. Ae texted me you weren’t feeling well and didn’t make it to work.” 

Elide opened her mouth to say something, but a wave of nausea and dizziness washed over her and her knees buckled. Lorcan moved quickly and smoothly braced her, his hands keeping her upright, “Woah, woah, hey, careful there, love.” She offered him a shallow, exhausted grin. “Let’s get you to bed, huh?” 

Elide nodded, her eyes falling shut as she tried to breathe past the achy feeling and the dizziness. “Yeah,” she breathed, leaning against the front hall table stand as Lorcan stepped in and closed the door behind him, toeing off his high-top Chucks. 

“C’mon, I got you,” he said softly, letting her put all her weight on him as they walked back to her room. 

Elide put out her hand and braced it against the wall, her vision swimming, breathing out slowly, “Ok, just one second, one second.” A second later, she was being lifted up into his arms and he continued on like she was nothing but a feather. She sighed, leaning her head back on his shoulder, “Thank you for coming over, I missed you today.” 

“You’re welcome, E, I was worried,” he replied, kissing the top of her head. “How are you feeling?” They had made it to her room and Lorcan gently set her down on the mattress, pressing his hand to her forehead. He frowned down at her, like the sheer will and power of his glare could intimidate her illness into departing from her. 

Elide groaned, “Everything hurts and I want to sleep but I’m too cold and I want to shower but if I stand up for too long, I’ll fall down and I hate this.” She pouted and then nestled further down into her blanket. 

Lorcan hummed, “I’ll be right back, E.” He didn’t give her further elaboration and disappeared into her closet. Elide didn’t have enough energy to protest and closed her eyes once more, trying to suppress her shivers. 

A minute later, Lorcan reappeared, now clad in a pair of sweats, his hair gathered up into a bun held together with one of her scrunchies. Elide’s eyes fluttered open slowly as he padded over to her side and slipped into bed beside her, gathering her in his arms. Sighing contentedly, she rested her forehead against his shoulder, his body warmth easing her shivers. Lorcan cradled her head in the crook of his arm and wrapped his other arm around her waist. “Go to sleep, E, I got you.” 

Elide smiled and tried to say something, but the last few nights of terrible and fitful sleep caught up to her and she was snoring softly before anything else could happen. 

She felt rested and satisfied when she woke again, still held snugly to Lorcan as he dozed. Elide smiled and wiggled against him, “Lor, wake up.” 

Lorcan started and jerked awake, “Wha, I’m up, I wasn’t sleeping.” Elide tilted her head back and laughed, the soreness she felt not as bad as it was before sleeping. He smiled and sat up, rubbing his eyes and standing. “C’mere, we’ll get you something to eat.” 

Elide whined, the mere thought of food turning her stomach. “I don’t wanna eat.” Lorcan scooped her up, blanket and all, not even giving her a chance to attempt walking on her own, not that she had any complaints. Elide let her head fall back on his shoulder as he carried her to the main area of her apartment. 

“I know, love, but your stomach will feel better if you have something in it and you’re getting dehydrated,” he said mildly, putting her down on the couch. “Wanna watch a movie?” 

“Yeah, play-” 

“The Jungle Book, I know, E,” Lorcan chuckled, walking over to her TV and crouching down to open the cabinet. He shook his head as he pulled out the old VHS, “I can’t believe you still have the same tape from when you were a kid.” 

“Hey! It’s nostalgic!” Elide was practically bouncing in her seat as Lorcan re-wound it and popped it in the VCR, still shaking his head. “If you make fun of me anymore you don’t get to watch with me.” Lorcan stood and rolled his eyes but stayed silent, dropping a kiss onto her forehead. “Wait, where are you going, stay with me,” she whined, turning to look over the back of the couch as he retreated to her bedroom. 

Once again, Lorcan gave her no explanation and Elide huffed as she settled back into the corner of the couch, crossing her arms and lowering her brows. Her movie began to play but not even that could lift her from the grouchiness she felt, all of her anger directed at her stupid, stupid boyfriend. Elide was muttering curses in Blackbeak when he appeared again, arms laden with pillows, her duvet, and the quilt her mother had made for her as a child. 

“What’s wrong,” he asked of her, dropping his bundle on the ground and kneeling by her. Elide pouted, her bottom lip sticking out and she rolled her eyes. 

“You’re too sweet and I hate you for it,” she muttered, frowning at him. Lorcan smiled and stood back up, brushing back her hair once more. 

“Sorry, El,” he quipped, bending to gather what he had gotten for her. He was quiet as he fussed over her, making a nest around her. As he tucked in the quilt, he asked, “Is that good?” 

Elide cuddled into the pillows and blankets, smiling blissfully, “I love you so much.” 

A goofy grin pulled at his lips and he blushed, “I love you too. Enjoy your movie, I’ll get you something to eat, ok?” 

Elide nodded, her eyes already sliding to the screen, “Yeah, yeah, sounds good.” She didn’t notice when he left for the kitchen, feeling like when she was a kid and would stay home from school when she was sick. 

Lorcan was busy heating soup for her when he heard a strained voice singing, “I mean the bare necessities, old Mother Nature's recipes, that brings the bare necessities of life…” He smiled to himself, turning away from the pot to watch her, her eyes alight. Fuck, I love her so much, he thought, just needing to take a moment for his heart to stop feeling so tight in his chest. 

He breathed out shakily, blinking hard while he turned to grab a bowl for her and carefully ladled the soup into it. He put the pot to the side and turned off the burner, grabbing a spoon and bumping the drawer shut with his hip. 

“El,” he said, walking around the couch and setting the bowl and spoon down, “you need to eat, babe.”

She wrinkled her nose and eyed the bowl warily. “Ugh. Fine.” Lorcan grinned triumphantly and sat down on the carpet, carefully holding the bowl and taking a spoonful of it. Elide huffed when he held it to her lips but let him feed her. “You’re ridiculous.” 

Lorcan shrugged and gave her spoonful after spoonful until she shook her head and pressed her lips together. “Mm-mm, no more.” 

Nodding his head, Lorcan stood and leaned down to kiss her. Elide pulled her head back, “You’re gonna get sick, L.” 

He grinned and cupped the back of her head, “Worth it.” Elide’s smile matched his as looped her hands around his neck and pressed her lips to hers. 

“You’re an idiot,” she whispered, resting her forehead against his. “Do you know how much I love you, Lorcan Salvaterre? Like, I love you so much.” 

He kissed her again, “I love you so fucking much, Lochan.” Lorcan pulled away, standing up to his full height, “Watch your movie, baby, I’ll be right back.” 

Lorcan went to the kitchen and put her bowl in the sink, quickly returning to her. Elide didn’t look away from the screen, subconsciously mouthing the words as she scooched forward to allow him to slide in behind her and pull her back into his chest, his legs on either side of her. 

Elide hummed and near purred when he started running his hands through her hair, gently pulling it back from her face. She didn’t even think he was paying attention when he began braiding it back for her, was sure it was little more than something for his hands to do as the movie played on. Wordlessly, she held up an elastic and he took it from her, tying off the end of one of the braids, starting on the next one and finishing it quicker than she could ever do it. Lorcan patted the plaits in place and rested his chin atop of her head, wrapping his arms around her shoulders. 

When her eyes started to droop, Elide turned onto her side and cuddled into his chest, her head resting over his heart. “Mmm, thank you,” she whispered, “for taking care of me.” 

Lorcan stretched out beneath her, his hands moving to her waist. Pressing a kiss to the crown of her head, he replied, “No problem at all, El.” 

i thought i might need a lil fluff before unleashing [redacted] 

@myfeyrelady @kandasboi @schmlip-scribble @the-regal-warrior @westofmoon @empire-of-wildfire @rhysands-highlady @city-of-fae @shyvioletcat @alifletcher2012 @tangledraysofsunshine @ttakeitbacknoww @tswaney17 @ourbooksuniverse @flora-and-fae @thesirenwashere 

[su-homebroken-au]

Homebroken Chapter 8

It wasn't often that Steven got any visitors. Sometimes Blue would come to ensure that he was alright, but he was typically left with his court. Unless sometimes they would appear, but he doesn't like to think about them. He doesn't want to. Regardless he wasn't sure if he should be glad for mostly being with his court. He was a social.. Social.. Being.

What was he again?

He cannot recall, he blames the static in his mind that numbed him as he woke up. The blanket the Pebbles had made for him was soft, as were the pillows. He didn't understand how, but he was happy regardless. His bed was a little hideaway, somewhere other gems couldn't see him.

The star decorations on the low ceiling glow continuously, providing a calming and non-intrusive atmosphere. He should stay there.. But there is commotion, and there isn't usually any noise.

He rose like a puppet being pulled by a string. He got out of bed, made the bed and walked to the noise with robotic precision.

Opening the door, Steven is greeted to Yellow Diamond. He spots her instantly as her hue is a contrast to the pink room and even with all of the platforms scattered around to give the court room some interest, she stuck out.

"There you are." Steven doesn't have time to process the whole situation to uncover the most optimal way of proceeding. He's grabbed in a tight unforgiving grasp and quickly lifted.

As he's lifted Steven is able to catch a glance of his guards. Dahlia stood poised and in a perfect diamond salute, meanwhile Freesia had a clear look of what could be described as panic. He does a brief look around but he can't spot Spinel.

"Don't look around, your attention should be on me." Steven's head instinctively snapped to look at her once he's brought to eye level. She's glowing, she's glowing quite a bit actually. It's a little blinding and it gave him a headache. He doesn't look away, he can't.

"I cannot believe you Pink. You're still hiding in there, in that little human." Her hold adjusts in a way that showed his gem, but he was held in such a secure manner he couldn't even wriggle a finger. "Now you're back to your old habits. Goofing off when you should be working!"

"We should be celebrating Era 3 now that you finally decided to stop this whole game, but here you are. Still playing it, because Blue and even White are letting you. I don't even know how you managed to convince her to let you!"

"I'll admit that your presence at least has made Blue a lot more productive, she hasn't been drowning her court in her tears. That makes you a little more worth the trouble, but only a little."

She gave him a sharp jab to his stomach, just above the gem. He remained mute. She loosened her hold, moving Steven so now he was sitting on her hand.

"You will have to throw a party. That is your courts duty, to make the other courts happy. You understand that, don't you?" He nodded, and her expression softened just a little. "Good. At least you can listen."

"Now, unfortunately you will have to choose a member of your court to represent you. You cannot show up looking like." With her other hand, she gestured to all of him. "You'll shatter gems with that appearance."

He wondered briefly if his appearance should have shattered his friends by now.

"Still, I expect it to go well." Steven suppressed a noise upon feeling a jolt of her power coursing through him. "If it doesn't, I'm not above punishing you. If something goes wrong.. You will be to blame."

Another jolt and she stared at him with such an intense expression he felt he was beneath a spotlight. His arms move into a diamond salute and she seemed satisfied. Her hand moved, and Steven doesn't have time to process the next situation.

He is sitting on a warm yellow surface one moment, and face down on a cold pink floor in another. There's a throbbing ache over his body that he wasn't aware of previously, and Yellow's footsteps only strengthen it as she went to exit.

"Don't forget. You have 48 hours."

There's the sound of the door opening and closing. Steven didn't move simply laying there, he wasn't sure if he was supposed to. He stayed still and was able to pick up on the sound of someone squeaky approaching.

Pink hands wind around under his arms and lift him easily. Steven is brought face to face with Spinel who peered worriedly at him. He was able to notice Freesia and Dahlia hurrying over as well but his gaze was drawn back to Spinel.

"Geez, he's bleeding." Freesia stated as she came closer to them. He didn't respond when she carefully pushed his hair back to look him over carefully. Dahlia looked at Spinel then Freesia and finally to Steven. "You'd think Yellow would know that humans are fragile by now."

"Don't speak ill of a Diamond." Dahlia scolded harshly and Freesia stuck her tongue out in retaliation. The rose quartz rolled her eyes and turned her attention back to Steven. He simply stayed still, showing no visual signs of distress.

"Doesn't really give her an excuse to." Spinel grumbled, just loud enough for Freesia to hear but not Dahlia. She glanced at the pink quartz briefly before looking back to Steven. "Can't you do something to heal him?"

"Unlike our Diamond, rose quartz soldiers can only heal gems." She explained quietly, glancing at his gem briefly. "There is no damage to his gem, there is nothing I can do. I'm sorry, my Diamond." She saluted as she spoke, her expression sorrowful.

Steven raised a hand shakily, patting her shoulder briefly before letting his hand fall to its original limp state. Freesia smiled at his attempt of comfort, while Dahlia appeared briefly confused but interested. The purple gem spun, putting her hands on her hips and grinning at the three.

"So, how are we gonna host a party?"

The other two gems glanced at each other uncertainly while Steven remained in a rag-doll like state. Spinel grinned sheepishly, while Dahlia shook her head in disappointment that seemed to be directed towards herself as opposed to the others. Freesia's grin dropped slightly.

"Our Diamond is doomed."

--

They were able to get information from the Pebbles about traditional balls that Pink had thrown in the past. Therefore, it was time to set up the main ballroom. Steven's hood had been pulled up as they hurried to the ballroom to begin set up. Dodging other gems was like a game, one where they'd get in trouble if they were caught.

"Alright, we're here." Spinel announced as she bounced into the empty courtroom. She did a brief few bounces, going higher and higher to ensure that they were alone. When she was satisfied that no-one was around, she gestured for them to follow her in.

Freesia pulled Steven's hood down as they entered, she glanced around and grimaced slightly. The empty bright room was ominous, the lack of any noise or many decorations just added towards a haunting atmosphere.

"Not exactly the most wonderful place, is it?" She stated, her hands on her hips. "I mean, the halls of the Zoo weren't that noisy but at least there was stuff there."

"Well you aren't there anymore." Dahlia reminded with a huff. "We're going to have to decorate, and plan."

As she spoke some of the Pebbles who had followed arrived, carrying items far too big for their bodies. Steven lifted one of the baskets with flowers and ribbons, examining it curiously. Dahlia lifted the basket from him easily, ushering him further inside. He was led to the pink throne, which he jumped upon and looked at her curiously.

"Right, we'll get decorating and make this place look a whole lotta fun!" Freesia looked at Steven with a wide smile. "Lil' Diamond! We got this, you observe and give us that royal touch!"

Following her instructions, Steven sat and observed. He watched as Spinel would bounce high to wrap ribbons and flowers around the columns. Dahlia had began making flower arrangements for the thrones, flowers in the same colour of a diamond were neatly put together into four separate arrangements.

He couldn't spot Freesia initially, but he noticed her helping the Pebbles create little things that were too small for him to understand.

He glances around the room, feeling much smaller than usual. It was like being in the presence of all of the Diamonds. The small being pressed his hands together with a shaky sigh. Steven has been good, so he won't be punished.

The dull throbbing ache over the front of his body suggested that he already had been but he believed it was likely an accident. He should have done better, he deserved that. He is supposed to make them happy, he isn't making them happy.

Sometimes when Blue visits she doesn’t smile at him, even though he tries to cheer her up because that his is role. His duty. Carrying Pink Diamond's gem until she was ready to emerge, he is supposed to fulfil her duties. He is the leader of the court that brought laughter. He's supposed to bring happiness.

But she doesn't smile at him, and neither does Yellow.

Steven shivered, the feeling of phantom fingers sweeping up his back and leaving a painful static sensation in their wake struck him quickly. He feels lightheaded, fatigued. Its hard to keep his head up as they continue to decorate.

He blinks. It's less bland.

He blinks. Life is returning.

He blinks. Colour is bleaching.

He blinks. Everything is fading.

He blinks. Let's play, Pink.

From below, Spinel noticed that Steven had fallen asleep. She supposed that made sense, he had been sat there to watch and watching wasn't any fun at all. It was boring. It was draining enough to make a gem crack. She had been waiting for years and years, watching for any signs of her best friend.

She didn't think she could remain still again like that for so long. Not without that empty feeling returning, endless questions spanning decades of waiting and wondering. Will she come back? When will we play again? Am I doing this right?

Does she still love me?

"Freesia! Those are not laid out in an acceptable manner! You are not on the Zoo ship anymore, you need to show some respect to our Diamonds!" Dahlia yelled, breaking Spinel from her momentary trance. She giggled again, and went back to work listening to the scuffle of the two gems.

This was a party, and those were always fun. Era 3 was going to be full of laughter and celebration! Everyone will be grinning forever and ever.

[slippinmickeys]

Of the Eight Winds, Part 6

This is part six in who knows how many from the prompt from @sunflowerseedsandscience : “Mulder is unhappily married when Scully is partnered with him, and while he doesn’t cheat (because sorry that’s not romantic), he falls for her so hard that he finally gets the courage to end the marriage and start fresh.”

Links to parts one, two, three, four and five.

1

Mulder’s mother-in-law was sick. Terminal cancer, from what Scully gathered from the little he talked about it. He was gone a lot, accompanying Lauren back and forth between her parent’s house in Newport News and the hospital and home.

Their basement office felt cold, empty without him in it. She felt like every small noise she made echoed off the walls. One Friday, she left early, unable to stand it any longer.

She went home, but felt alone there, too. She drifted out into her neighborhood, the warm sun of the afternoon laying long shadows through the streets.

There was a farmer’s market set up a few blocks from her apartment— an entire block’s worth of a street closed off, with tented stalls lining both sides of the road, selling everything from fresh eggs to flowers to jewelry.

She was looking through the selection of breads and baked goods on the edge of one of the stalls when she felt a light tug on bottom of the sundress she had changed into. She looked down to find a small black feline paw had reached through the bars of the cage in the next stall and had hooked a claw into her dress. Her laugh alerted one of the women working the rescue group’s stall, who rushed over to help release her from the kitten’s grasp, with an “oh honestly, Trouble.”

“His name is Trouble?” Scully asked, laughing.

“Her,” the woman said, smiling at the little black fluff affectionately, “she’s sweet but has an excess of personality.”

“How old is she?” Scully asked.

“Ten weeks,” the woman answered, then narrowed her eyes, seeing a prospective cat rescuer suddenly in her midst. “Here,” she went on, handing Scully a feather-on-a-stick cat toy, “play with her. She’s a hoot.”

Scully bobbed the toy about Trouble’s head, who took one swat at it and then jumped into the air and caught it, growling like a dog. Scully laughed, delighted.

“She plays fetch, too,” said the woman, who was still hovering nearby.

“You’re kidding,” Scully said, tugging on the feather, which Trouble refused to give up.

“I’ve seen it with my own eyes,” the woman said, “wadded up paper ball. And when she brings it back, she drops it better than my retriever ever does.”

Scully was thoroughly charmed.

“You in the market for a new friend?” the woman asked with a smile.

“Oh! No, not really.”

“Well, we’ll be here if you change your mind. Our rescue group has a stall at the Farmer’s Market on Tuesdays and Fridays.”

Scully smiled at the woman and turned away, thinking of buying a bag of apples and a bouquet of flowers.

“Miss?” the woman said, and Scully turned back to look at her, “Trouble won’t be here long. The cute ones get adopted quick.”  

Scully smiled indulgently and walked on. On her return trip through the market to head home, carrying a bag of greens, two cartons of strawberries and a small bouquet of yellow calla lilies, she saw a small girl playing with Trouble and a slightly larger orange tabby kitten. The girl’s parents were standing a few feet away and the girl turned to them. “I want the orange one,” she told them.

Scully was insulted on Trouble’s behalf. It was no fun coming in second. She veered back toward the cage and stuck a finger through the bars. Trouble rubbed her face against her finger and sat down, purring.

“Can I get an adoption application please?” Scully said then, and found that the woman was already behind her with a clipboard and a pen. The woman winked.

Two hours later she tumbled into her apartment laden with her haul from the farmer’s market, twenty five pounds of kitty accoutrements and a cardboard cat carrier that had little black paws popping out of the holes in the top.

She opened it up and looked down at its lone occupant, who sat, looking back at her, as prim and proper as a posy. She looked like a ball of black puff with two green eyes, as round as the moon.

“We’re going to change your name, Trouble,” Scully said, “A friend of mine once told me about self-fulfilling prophecies.”

2

Scully didn’t go to Lauren’s mother’s funeral, but she did send flowers. She tried to strike the right tone with the arrangement, somewhere between work acquaintance and best friend, and leaned into one that was more on this side of ostentatious than not.

She got a thank you card from Lauren, but it was written in Mulder’s scrawling hand.

3

Scully had voiced a craving for a mid-afternoon latte, and the day was bright and clear, the first in almost a week. He volunteered to accompany her to a nearby coffee shop.

He waited in the back of the shop next to a stack of high chairs and a small creamer station dusted with spilled Sweet’N Low and cinnamon. He watched as she gave her order to the barista, laughing at something the girl had said as she handed over her money. Her face shone amongst the other patrons, brighter and clearer than anyone else’s. It was like she alone was in focus, everyone else in the world walking in an ill-defined blur.

Why had he waited so long, he wondered. Some misplaced sense of loyalty? Things with Lauren had always gone from bad to worse, waiting certainly hadn’t made them better. It wasn’t to spare Lauren’s feelings. It certainly wasn’t to spare his own.

Scully turned from where she stood in line and caught his eye. She smiled at him with a radiance that hit him square in the solar plexus.

How many years had he wasted? How many breaths had he taken, how many nights spent alone in a bed of two?

He smiled back at her, a delicious ache in his chest.

4

Their first meeting with Skinner after Mulder informed him of their relationship was a budgetary meeting. Kimberly smiled at them in a knowing way when they walked into the front part of Skinner’s office, at which Scully blushed. Mulder wondered vaguely how much Skinner and his assistant talked.

Just before Skinner adjourned the meeting of roughly ten people, he said “Please consider this a reminder to make sure your current address, emergency contact information, and any other pertinent personnel file data is updated and filed with Human Resources.”

Mulder shot a look to Scully, who shot a look back.

The skin at the base of his left ring finger was bare but indented with years long pressure.

5

One morning, Mulder woke up to find Blackwell sitting on his chest, the end of her fat, fluffy tail twitching slowly up, keeping time like a metronome. The cat regarded him coolly for minute, then yawned once and flopped down to lay atop him, purring gently.

Scully awoke about ten minutes later and cracked a sleepy eye to look at the domestic tableau before her.

She smiled.

“She likes you,” she said.

“I have a way with women,” he rumbled, scratching a nail under the cat’s chin.

“I’ll remember that the next time she needs her claws trimmed,” Scully said, stretching.

Mulder considered the animal.

“Why did you name your cat Blackwell?” he asked.

“Have you heard of Elizabeth Blackwell?” she asked back. He shook his head. “She was the first woman to graduate from Medical School in the United States,” she said.

He nodded, running his hand along the velvet coat of the black cat.

“Perfect,” he said. Blackwell purred. So did Scully.

6

He had dreams. Terrible dreams. He dreamt that he hadn’t made it in time to the top of Skyland Mountain. He dreamt that Melissa had been shot dead in Scully’s doorway. Dreams where he showed up at the hospital to visit Lauren’s mother and found Scully in her bed.

In the mornings, he woke to find Scully next to him and pulled her close. She generally woke when he did this, but never once complained.

7

Blackwell had stopped growling when playing with toys after a week or two of living with Scully, but would still occasionally play fetch. Mulder was so taken with the idea of a dog-like cat, he offered to open an X-File on her and swore he would teach her tricks.

True to his word, as the years passed, Mulder taught Blackwell several, including a high five, “speak” and a version of “play dead” in which he would pull an imaginary service weapon (complete with correct form and safety procedures) say “bang” and over she would keel. True her status as a feline, Blackwell would perform these tricks only five times out of ten, which Scully did have to admit, was pretty good.

On a lazy Sunday morning when Lily was nine months old, Mulder, Scully and their daughter were whiling away in their rumpled bed (Mulder with a book, Scully with a crossword, Lily with an orange teether) when Mulder set the book down on his bedside table and turned to Scully.

“Lily and I taught Blackwell a new trick,” he said.

Scully set down the newspaper and pencil where Lily couldn’t get to them and turned toward him.

“I’d like to see it,” she said, smiling.

“What do you think, Lil?” Mulder said to the baby who babbled a bit in response, a string of drool sliding down to soak into her already damp onesie.

Mulder nodded, pursed his lips and whistled.

A light tinkling sound came down the hallway, and Blackwell jumped up easily onto the bed and sauntered up to Mulder to give him a gentle headbutt.

Scully clapped softly.

“She comes when whistled for now? I’m impressed.”

Mulder pet the cat affectionately and then looped a finger underneath the cat’s collar to bring it up and over her fur.

“And check out the new accessory,” Mulder said.

Scully clicked her fingers and Blackwell walked over to her.

“A new collar, I see,” Scully, said, eyeing the new black collar with equal parts humor and distaste -- it had a repeating pattern of alien heads and ufos.

Mulder nodded as Blackwell sat in front of Scully and then he thrust his chin up and towards the cat.

“That’s not all,” he said, “check out the hardware.”

Lily made a grab for the cat, but was scooped up by her father who lifted her to his shoulder as Scully leaned down to take a closer look at Blackwell’s new collar. Where the bell usually was, hung a platinum ring with three diamonds and an aged patina. Scully sucked in a breath and fingered it, flicking her eyes to Mulder, who looked at her with affection.

“What do you think, Scully? Make an honest man out of me?”

Blackwell sat patiently as Scully unhooked her collar and slid the ring off of it. She held it in her palm, her eyes shining.

“Was this…?” she said, and Mulder knew what she was asking.

“It was the ring I gave to Lauren,” he said, “it was my grandmother’s. She returned it to me a few months ago. She thought you should have it.”

Scully smiled sadly.

Mulder rushed on.

“I understand if you would rather not wear it. I’d be happy to buy you a new one. But I wanted to give you the option. Mulder women have been wearing this ring for close to a hundred years. It maybe doesn’t have the best mojo, but…”

“I love it,” Scully said, as Lily reached up and patted at Mulder’s cheeks. Scully slid it over her finger and it seemed to fit perfectly.

“So is that a yes?” Mulder asked, nuzzling their daughter’s head.

“It’s a yes,” Scully smiled. “And Mulder?”

He looked at her.

“I don’t believe in mojo.”

8

They buried Blackwell under the dogwood tree in their backyard, eleven year old Lily crying into her mother’s shoulder. Eight year old William, who had inherited his mother’s stoicism and his grandmother’s stiff upper lip stood next to them, watching his father blankly as he patted the soil flat with the back of a shovel.

“She was good cat,” William said somberly, and Mulder reached out and pulled him into a hug. He could feel a wet spot start to soak into his shirt.

“She was, buddy,” he said, and swung his eyes to Scully, who was absently rubbing Lily’s back, her eyes still on the ground. “I think maybe we should celebrate her life with ice cream, what do you say?”

William snuffled loudly, wiped his nose with the back of his hand.

“Vanilla, dad?” he said on another sniffle, “chocolate is bad for cats.”

Scully finally cracked a smile.

“It’s what she would have wanted,” she said, and tucked a strand of bright red hair tenderly behind Lily’s ear.

A blossom detached from the tree and fell gently to the ground, landing softly on the freshly turned earth.