#he's a kleptomaniac because his parents never gave him attention!!

[bruised-muses]

kleptomaniac keefe sencen send post

[willddheartt]

JJ and his Kleptomaniac tendencies

W

A/N: This came to me from something I commented on @peachy-jj​ ‘s post about his klepto tendencies. So shout out to them for inspiring this.  If this gets enough attention or like one person wants to read the part 2 im writing, ill post it. 

Summary: JJ’s klepto tendencies, just might get him the girl who owns his heart two months out of the year. 

Warnings: Fluff

Word Count: 1.3K

Masterlist

When the summer rolled around you always visited the outer banks with your sister, being able to enjoy a worry and carefree summer without your parents around always telling you what to do and when to do it. Technically in the island’s terms of people, you were a touron but spent the summer living with your sister on the cut, and weren't as clueless as most tourons.  You’d been coming to the island since you turned 13 and had time to master tightrope walking the social class lines. Through most of the weekdays you could be found slumming it with random Pogues from the cut who were around your age, but if a Kook would throw a party on the weekends you attended going unnoticed as you danced among the rich kids who drank cheap beer. 

Your favourite group was always the one with the blonde kleptomaniac everyone labelled as JJ. You returned every summer mostly just to see if he would still remember you from the previous year. It was an ongoing summer romance you two had, flirting back and forth came as second nature, even though in two short months you’d be returning back to the mainland that didn’t seem to stop him.  There were many times when the two of you had hung out just yourselves, you laughing about stories he’d tell you from his travels out on the Pogue with John B and Pope, him chucking at the stories you told him from the house parties back on the mainland, as you walked through town. Stopping into all the tourist shops was something you couldn’t resist, always getting a new sticker or small keepsake from your favourite island. 

JJ took note of the same necklace you commented on every time but saying you would never purchase it because it was clearly cheaply made and overpriced, no matter how much you wanted to have the small wave charm hanging from your neck. 

Today was what you deemed a normal day in the outer banks, JJ invited you out on a trip to the marsh with the famous John B, Pope and Kiara that you heard many stories of, but had never met in person yet.  JJ seemed to keep you away from his life on the island, saying it was like a getaway sometimes. You understood because for the same reason you refused to go into your sisters work or even let her know of the blonde boy you grew close to in the summers, knowing she would never let you hear the end of having a thing with one of the island locals.  But it was not a surprise when he had asked you to come with them today, he had been talking about introducing you to them recently, and what better way than to bring you along on a trip they all enjoy. 

The group seemed to have heard as much about you as you had them when the tall boy, who introduced himself as John B, asked if you were the mysterious seasonal pogue his friend talked about.  The day on the water was spent sharing stories of your mutual friend, getting back to town just before sunset. 

Your favourite tourist shop was still open as the two of you walked down the street, window shopping and telling jokes. JJ stood behind you, looking over your shoulder as you admired the mass-produced, simple silver wave necklace you refused to buy. He smiled, his hand reached into the pocket of his shorts, and the small silver chain wrapped around his fingers. He knew what he’d swiped earlier that morning before inviting you on the boat, but you had no idea. 

You were asked to leave so the shop could close just as the sun was setting behind the buildings, holding everything in a golden glow.  “One day I’ll find it for a decent price somewhere else,” You sighed, JJ knew exactly what you were talking about and could hardly bite back the smile that was threatening to give him away as you walked to your favourite spot on the beach. 

You sat on the rocks next to JJ watching the sun go down. It started as something you forced him to do with you as he was really the only friend you had on the island but morphed into something he loved doing over time. As you sat with your head on his shoulder, watching the waves crash on the shore, the sun had long disappeared behind the horizon, but it wasn’t exactly dark yet.  “I should get home,” You mumbled, your head still resting on his shoulder  “Do you want me to walk with you?” He asked.  You nodded, not liking how you had to walk past the crackhead paradise that is the local drug dealer house to get to your sisters. 

The two of you walked in silence, your path being light by the amber streetlights that were slowly turning on. Somewhere along the line you grabbed his hand, lacing your fingers together. As you neared your house, JJ cleared his throat.  “You know that necklace you always look at in the one shop?” He asked, nervously, not sure how to present you with the gift.  You nodded, “The wave that's too simple to pay fifteen bucks for,”  JJ stopped under one of the streetlights, turning to face you as he pulled the silver chain from his pocket. You gasped, once seeing the wave hanging from the chain in his hands,  “I figured since you’re always eyeing it up,” He trailed off as your eyes lifted to meet his,  “JJ,” You asked, a smirk pulling at your lips, “Did you steal it?”  “What? Pfft, no what makes you think I’d do that?” He asked, lying horribly for the first time ever.  Your smile grew bigger, “You swiped it for me?” “Yeah, kinda. I just figured you’re always looking at it,” 

You handed the two ends of the chain to him before turning around and putting your hair over your shoulder, he clasped the chain behind your neck and you turned back around to face him, holding onto the small charm.  “I love it,” You mumbled, looking down at the necklace.  JJ smiled, a sense of pride filling him over the fact that he had given you something you’d wanted for years.

“Wow,” You chuckled as you and the blonde continued to walk down the darkening road, “Get you a dude who will swipe you overpriced necklaces.” He chuckled with you before you said your goodbyes, going your separate ways as your sister's house came into view. You hugged him and he kissed your cheek. As you pulled apart, you looked at him, trying to think of something to say so you could spend a few more seconds together, not wanting the day to come to an end.  “Thank you, again for this,” You gestured to the necklace, He shrugged with a smile  “It was nothing, really. Just thought you’d like it,”  You went in, giving him another kiss on the cheek before you were going to force yourself to turn around and walk up the driveway, but as his arms wrapped around your waist when you pulled back, you looked up into his blue eyes, smiling at him. 

“I think it's only fair that I give you something now,” You said “What were you thinking?” JJ smiled as he looked down at you.  Your hands linked behind his neck as you pushed yourself up on your toes, closing the gap between your lips. His grip on your waist tightened, pulling you into him and one of your hands raked your fingers through the back of his hair.  Pulling back, you rested your feet flat on the ground but your hands stayed loosely hung around his neck. Clearing your throat you pointed over your shoulder to your house, “I’ll see you tomorrow?” You asked  “Of course,” JJ nodded.  “Goodnight, J,” Your sweet voice called to him as you made your way up the driveway,  “Night, princess,” He replied, but you were too far away to hear him. 

That night as he settled back in the spare room of John B’s chateau he drifted off with a smile plaster to his face. He knew he’d never forget what you gave him in return for the necklace.

[purplesurveys]

1264

Who are you subscribed to on YouTube?  Oh man, I’m probably subscribed to over a hundred, if not 200. I’ve subscribed to channels relevant to interests I’ve had over the years, and since it’s not my habit to do spring cleaning on my feeds, the subscriptions have just keep piling up even if I no longer keep up with literally like 98% of them.

Do you like to go to the farmer's market?  I don’t think I’ve ever been in one yet. They aren’t very common here and the ones we do have are pricey and mostly inaccessible to the everyday consumer, I’m sure.

What will (or was) the color of your wedding dress be?  I wouldn’t want any other color than white.

What's your favorite melon?  I don’t like fruits.

What was the name of the last pet of yours that died?  Arlee. Technically my family mostly considered her as just Nina’s pet, but the sting was felt all the same when we learned she died.

When was the last time you wished the day would just get over with?  Yesterday, because it was Friday. Pretty self-explanatory, I wanted to get to the weekend so I can finally let go of work for a couple of days.

Name one person you've never had a fight with:  Andi. I think we’re both afraid of pissing the other off, which works out for us lol.

What are you currently listening to?  I can just hear the really loud whirring of my electric fan because it’s a grossly humid day today.

What would you rather have: cat or dog?  Dogs.

Who is your least favorite person in real life?  I have a lot of uncles I just don’t like.

Do you ever watch anybody's live stream of... anything, really?  Technically, yeah. I will sometimes tune in to livestreams of lofi music on YouTube, but I do it to listen, not to watch. 

Does your house have security cameras?  No.

If you go grey as you age, would you dye your hair or let it be?  I think I might dye it for a certain period of time, but I also think I would eventually reach the point where I’ll just accept it and slowly let go of the dye.

What was the last establishment you stopped going to due to bad service? What happened?  I haven’t run into much bad service, but I’ll never forget how long my order and bill took for Mad Mark’s. I never really vowed per se to never go back there again and I definitely didn’t confront the staff, but I haven’t eaten there since that incident.

What soundtrack do you listen to the most?  Not a big soundtrack listener.

Was there a family secret you weren’t told about until you were an adult?  Nah, they’re kept from us until now. The biggest one I’ve heard about was having a kleptomaniac in the family but we were never told who it is.

Do you have an opinion most people you meet seem to disagree with you?  Yeah, my dislike for fruits.

What’s something you like to have many options to choose from?  Clothes, I guess, like bucket hats. I don’t shop a lot and clothes aren’t a priority in my budget, so when I do pick out clothes, it has to be exactly what I want so that I don’t feel it was a waste of money.

What’s the strangest decorative object you own?  We have several quirky, disconnected decor in the living room from gifts we’ve acquired over the years. One object I can tell you about is the polar bear glass figurine we have on the coffee table.

What’s a thing you couldn’t imagine doing with your life right now?  Dating around.

What’s been your proudest moment?  Managing to stay alive this year and turn my life around for the better when I thought there was no hope.

What’s the filthiest non-pornographic movie you’ve seen?  Eyes Wide Shut, probably.

Do you know anyone who doesn't seem to be fond of animals?  I don’t think so. Like any animal...? I would find that quite odd, honestly. And I wouldn’t want to be friends with them if we weren’t already close .

Are you planning any outings or trips anytime soon? Whereabouts?  No, nothing set in stone. I do want to fly out to South Korea soon, though.

Do you know anyone who has a phobia of a certain animal?  I know a few people who are afraid of dogs.

Is there a particular brand of technology/electronics that you prefer?  Yeah, Apple.

Is there a singer whose voice gives you goosebumps/chills?  Hayley Williams and Jin, especially when he’s belting; and I don’t listen to her much, but I find that Billie Eilish has a unique voice that sounds really nice.

And is there a singer whose voice you simply can't stand?  Selena Gomez for some of her songs, Meghan Trainor for most of her songs.

Are there any authors that are particularly dominant on your bookshelf?  No.

Have you seen any photographs or videos that made you smile today?  Sure.

Which item in your fridge are you most looking forward to consuming? My aunt sent over this gigantic-ass slab of salmon that I can’t wait to eat as sashimi. I already had a few pieces last night and it was hea ven ly.

Has anyone you know got into a new relationship lately?  Hmm, I don’t think so. I know my coworker Dev got into a relationship a few weeks ago but it fizzled out as soon as it started because the guy was shitty.

If you menstruate, do you experience much PMS prior to it?  Only on the emotional side; I rarely get physical symptoms. I usually feel down or emotionally heavy a few days before my period.

Have you ever had a tattoo covered up or added to?  No, I don’t have any tattoos. Can you remember the last time you had a sudden change of mind?  Hmm, like last night. I wanted to stay up to maximize the weekend, buuuut I decided against it and slept instead since I had been up since 2 in the morning.

When was the last time you did something on a whim?  Two weeks ago when I impulsively dropped a thousand bucks to have cheese tarts delivered to Angela and Reena, hahaha.

Were you raised by both of your parents? If not, then who raised you?  My mom, grandma, and one of my aunts were the main people who raised me. Dad works overseas, so he was never at home much.

Have you ever began a relationship with someone you knew for less than a week?  No, I wouldn’t do that.

Has one of your friends ever tried to ‘hook you up?’  Mik tried to pair me with one of his friends just days before I finally implied on social media that I was no longer in a relationship. It was a cool ego boost but I declined, since my emotions were still super turbulent then. Andi tried to initiate sex with me once too, but I also declined.

What is your card game of choice?  I hate card games; I can never seem to understand them lmao, though that’s really more of a me problem than anything else.

What is your favourite books series?  Growing up, I really loved the Septimus Heap series. But the thing about it was that I got into it while the series was still ongoing; and with how bad my attention span is, I always forgot the events/plot whenever the newest book came out. 

So whenever that happened I had to read the entire series from Book 1; eventually the number of books I had to reread/revisit became too many (it was a seven-part series) and I simply just lost the time to read and I never got to know about the conclusion.

Do you prefer landmarks or street names when being given directions?  Street names – more precise. Landmarks to me can be pretty subjective – a green building might look blue to me, and I could just end up being lost.

Do you read the prologues in the beginnings of books?  Sure.

What was your favourite gym class moment?  If I genuinely like or already play the sport that was being taught. That’s why PE table tennis was a lot of fun for me.

Do you think that ocean boardwalks are fun?  I’ve never been on one but I imagine they are fun, yeah.

Do you dread when people ask you to sign their yearbooks?  That’s not a tradition here.

Do you have a favourite Scooby-Doo movie?  No. I was too young for Scooby-Doo in a sense that I do remember watching the movies as a 3/4 year old as they were kept on in the background at home, but I didn’t get any of the plots/didn’t really appreciate the films.

Do you think it’s cute when toddlers try to run away and fall down?  Sometimes, yeah. If the fall looked nasty I would obviously be concerned.

Do you enjoy listening to your grandparents tell stories of their past?  Honestly, only one of my grandparents would be the type to do this but he’s been dead for six years now. It’s a big shame he passed before I could bond with him the way I had always wanted to. My three other grandparents are either too closed off or too quiet to share stories from their youth.

Do you have a crush on someone? Nah, nothing more than a celebrity crush.

If so... what does his/her name begin with? 

What attracts you to them? 

Do they know that you like them? 

If they don't know, why didn't you tell them? 

Name two people that you miss:  Angela and Laurice.

Have you ever seen Titanic?  More times than I can count. I’m sure I memorize like 80% of the script, too.

Have you ever swam with dolphins?  No. I’m not so sure if I’ve seen dolphins, either. Maybe I have? Or maybe I’m confusing it with whales...idrk.

When was the last time you had a stomachache?  Wednesday.

What's going to bed early for you?  11 PM or midnight.

Do you want to have a big family in the future?  I used to, but I don’t think that’s the future I want anymore. One or two kids should be okay.

What was the last thing you did that gave you a rush?  Technically speaking, an orgasm, I guess?? Lmao idk

Favorite Nicholas Cage movie?  I don’t think I have one.

Have you had your Covid vaccine yet? Which one, if you have?  Yeah, I’m fully dosed. Sinovac.

If you've had your vaccine, did you experience any side effects?  I was suuuuuuper tired right after my first dose and I wanted to be knocked the fuck out, but I went right back to work after the shot because I am allergic to filing leaves hahaha. Second dose went smoothly.

What's the next item of clothing that you intend to buy for yourself?  A bucket hat or maybe one of the Fila x BTS shirts because the collection is actually quite cute!

What Facebook groups have you found the most helpful?  I join Facebook groups to be entertained, not because I actively look for advice.

Do you like your butt? Why or why not?  Yeah. It...has a good form hahahahahaha.

Have you ever personally been a victim of homophobia?  Yes, a few years ago I went to a food park with my ex-girlfriend. I was already not feeling my best that day to begin with, so having to see an old woman stare daggers at us for what felt like years really stung. I felt small under her look and almost cried, but in the end I felt angry that I momentarily felt shame about my relationship. I decided to just piss the woman off on purpose and do PDA right in front of her.

Do you think you’d be happier if you had a pet? I have two dogs at present and I know they make me extremely happy.

Who was the last person you went on a date with?  Gabie.

Were you ever hospitalized as a little kid?  No. The first and only time I was hospitalized (other than being birthed), I was about 12, I think.

What’s your favorite way to curl your hair?  I don’t do that. I rarely style my hair.

At what age did you start swearing?  I was 11.

What is something you physically can’t do?  Ride a bike.

What do like better, apples or oranges?  I don’t like any fruits; but in terms of flavored stuff, I like orange-flavored food, especially chewy candy, slightly more.

Around the holidays, do you hope for snow?  Well, no.

What are your top two favorite bands?  Paramore and Against Me!

How many people do you 100% trust?  There are a handful. I generally trust easily just because I like to believe all people are kind and loyal – but I can also take it away in the snap of a finger.

Do you care what others think about you?  Not so much.

Has anyone ever called you a bitch?  Sure.

Did you watch Teletubbies when you were younger?  Yeah but just super super faint memories. It wasn’t one of my main shows.

Do you have any licenses other than your driver's license?  I don’t.

Could you live the rest of your life without eating meat?  I doubt it. I could try, but I think I’d get cranky and start looking for meat way earlier than I would like to admit.

Have you ever had a rolling backpack?  Yup, if you mean a stroller. I think I’ve answered this on a previous survey.

Did you make any money today?  No, because it’s a weekend. What was the highest place you've ever jumped from?  Nothing dramatically high. I’ve had acrophobia-themed nightmares in the past, so even though I don’t actually have a fear of heights, the idea of jumping from a high place still makes me antsy.

Have you ever gone swimming in a river?  Not that I can recall.

What was the last souvenir someone got you?  I dunno if it counts but Andi bought merch from the AEW shop but made sure to also get a CM Punk sticker set for me :(

Do you have a favorite remix of a song?  Remixes have never been my thing. What do you think is the most saddest sounding instrument?  Piano.

Do you really pay attention to the ratings on movies?  Yeah they can definitely affect the level of appreciation I hold towards a film. For instance, if I genuinely enjoyed a movie only to find out it has average to bad reviews, it invites me to think more critically about the movie.

Do you have a favorite species of wild cat (tiger/lion/cougar/etc.)?  No.

If you had $500,000, what would you do with it?  Give half to my parents and let them do whatever they wish it. With the remaining P12,500,000, I’d probably get myself my own condo and have it fully furnished, then get braces, then get a new phone and laptop. I’ll have a bunch of money still left, I’m pretty sure – the rest of it I’ll save.

Did the last person you touched lips with have a kid?  No. I mean, I have honestly no clue what’s going on in her life now, but I know she doesn’t want kids so this is very unlikely.

"First loves are never really over." Is this true for you?  It’s true in a sense that she left me a lot of trauma and self-esteem issues that will irrevocably always be a part of me now even though I’ve worked hard to resolved most of them by myself.

Did you like Michael Jackson before he died?  Yes, because he has always been my favorite singer’s role model.

What are some things that would make you break up with someone?  I don’t know how to answer this question, honestly. All the red flags were thrown and tossed and slapped into my face and down my throat for six years yet I never left. I don’t actually know what my limits are, and I believe it’s because my coping mechanism has to just accept things and suck them up no matter how bad they get. That’s what I’m trying to change for myself now.

What was the worst breakup you've ever had?  I’ve had two breakups with the same person, and the second one was worse.

[wolfpawn]

I Hate You, I Love You, Chapter 38

Chapter Summary -   Benedict and Sophie arrive for dinner, which is a nice affair. When Sophie gets Danielle alone, the pair speak about how it is to be the other half of the "Internet's Boyfriends."

Previous Chapter

Rating - Mature (some chapters contain smut)

Triggers - references to Tom Hiddleston’s work with the #MeToo Movement. That chapter will be tagged accordingly.

authors Note - I have been working on this for the last 3 years, it is currently 180+ chapters long.  This will be updated daily, so long as I can get time to do so, obviously.

tags: @sweetkingdomstarlight-blog  @jessibelle-nerdy-mum @nonsensicalobsessions @damalseer @hiddlesbitch1 @winterisakiller @fairlightswiftly @salempoe @lys-syl @youcantcatchafallingstar

If you wish to be tagged, please let me know.

“I see you fitted in some stress relief.” Benedict joked as he walked into the house, giving Tom a hug as he did.

“Do you two ever stop?” Sophie shook her head and laughed, having already entered and given Tom a similar hello. “I love this table.” She commented, looking at the table that Danielle had inside the front door.

“Sophie, no stealing Elle’s things,” Ben warned, earning a confused look from Tom. “She stole my mother’s bowl recently.”

“Your father gave it to me,” Sophie argued.

“Without telling mum.” Ben countered.

“I didn’t know that.” She pointed out.

“He’s hated the fucking thing for years, so first chance he had to get rid of it, and it ends up in our place.” Tom chuckled at his friend’s overdramatic reaction to a bowl. “So, where’s Danielle?”

“Kitchen,” Tom led the way.

“Ooh, what books does she have?” Sophie asked, glancing into Danielle’s living room on the way.

“Elle, frisk Sophie on the way out,” Ben called out in warning. “She plans on robbing half your home.”

“It’s actually so nicely done,” Sophie added, heading to the kitchen, looking around as she did.

“Actually, it appears she’s just robbing the whole fucking thing.” Sophie elbowed him slightly.

When there was no response, Tom frowned. “Elle?” he called going for the kitchen door. A sniffing noise caught their attention. “Mac, get away from the door.” There was another sniff and a grumbling noise before Tom opened it.

“Tom, he got in when I was throwing out bread crusts for the birds, but I am prepping food so I can’t touch him.” Elle apologised.

“Got it, come on, big man.” He grabbed a baked pig ear and caught the dog’s attention, allowing for Ben to open the door.

“He’s huge,” Ben commented. As soon as Mac Tíre realised there was someone new to sniff, the ear was forgotten about and he trotted over to the guests. “Soph, remember the pup I told you about.”

“You said he was a scrawny rat.”

“Well, he is getting a bit fatter these days, Diana is overfeeding him.”

“She is not, he’s supposed to be fatter than you have him.” Tom defended.

“I’m sorry, did your father have a vet practice?”

“My father was in charge of the company that sold your father pharmaceuticals.”

“Actually they manufactured them, not sold them, that is done by the parent company.” Danielle corrected, sticking out her tongue at him.

“So, yes, this is apparently my girlfriend, acting like a four-year-old.” Tom indicated to Danielle as he spoke to Sophie.

“He’s just annoyed I caught him on a technicality, I’m Danielle.” Danielle dismissed as she walked over to Sophie, cleaning her hand to shake hers. Sophie, however, walked forward and hugged her. “Oh, okay. I thought English were not supposed to be overly affectionate at the beginning.”

“I am half Scottish.” Sophie smiled.

“Ah, that explains it.” Danielle grinned back. “So, what’s this bout robbing my house?” she looked to Ben, who came to hug her as well.

“Sophie is an undiagnosed kleptomaniac apparently, and your house and everything in it is next.”

“Benedict!” Sophie looked at him appalled. “I just said I like your hall table and wondered what books you had on your shelves.” Sophie put her hands up as though she was being ordered to by authorities.

Danielle just laughed. “Thank you, it was my parents, I effectively took everything from the house with me here, so anything nice, it was probably theirs and as for the books, literally, you could find anything in there, there is no rhyme or reason to it, ask Tom, it annoys him.”

“It does not.” Tom dismissed, smiling like a fool at how immediately Elle had taken to Sophie.

“You glare at it, do not deny it, I can see it in your face.”

“I like your book organisational skills as much as you like my grey shoes.” He retorted.

“Ouch!” Danielle laughed in slight disbelief, “That is cold.”

“Those shoes are fucking tragic,” Benedict interjected, though his face was a jestful one. “I mean really, Tom.”

“Funny, he said you have two pairs.” Danielle joked.

“Ooh.” Tom pointed at Benedict as he laughed at his disbelieving look at the young woman. “That turned quickly.”

“Come for dinner and I get abused.” Ben shook his head, scratching Mac Tíre’s ear. “Why do I bother?”

“I think it is something to do with the food.” Elle joked, going back to the food. “Mac, out.”

“He is fine if you want to leave him in, so long as he won’t jump on Sophie.” Ben dismissed.

“Mac isn’t allowed jump on anyone or on the couch.” Tom showed him the ear again, regaining the dog’s attention. “Bed.” Taking the ear gently, Mac trotted to his bed. “Good boy.” He smiled, “Tea?”

“Please.” There was an eagerness to Sophie’s voice that was slightly dramatic.

“Very domestic,” Ben joked.

“Yeah,” Tom smiled as he looked at Danielle, who was busy prepping something for the dinner. “Oh, Elle is making…what is…is that your…”

“Good to see Eton and Cambridge paid off, proper coherent sentences there.” Ben joked.

“You may be laughing, but you have not had Elle’s Roast Lamb and veg.”

“Nice and exotic.” Elle shrugged.

“Does it come with potatoes?” Ben asked curiously.

“Gratin and roast.”

“I am never leaving.” Ben declared as Tom handed him a cup and thanked him, then watching as he handed one to Elle. “That’s not a cup, that’s a tankard.”

“You know Irish people drink more tea than us.” Tom pointed out.

“With cups that’s size, it’s hardly a fucking surprise.” Ben laughed. “Seriously, why would anyone need a cup that big?”

“Because they want that much tea.” Elle grinned, “Food’s on, so here or the living room?”

“If just to annoy Tom with your disorganised books, we’ll go to the living room, but no promises Sophie won’t rob you.” Ben joked, rushing through the door before his wife contemplated throwing her tea at him.

*

“So, how did the music shoot go?” Ben asked as he bit into another piece of the dinner.

“Fine, all things considered. Though I think I can put my hand on my heart and say it is chaotic and completely off-putting.” Danielle responded.

“The shoot or the person.”

“The shoot, the person I wasn’t overly bothered by, considering I am two and zero on that front, the song, however, as tragic as the ‘singing’ is once again, is not exactly very nice.” She looked to Tom apologetically.

“Yeah, I read about it, ‘The Heeler’, peculiar name,” Sophie added.

“Not really, makes perfect sense, it’s about Tom and myself and I was a paramedic.”

“But it is spelt wrong.” Ben pointed out.

“Wait, H-E-E-L-E-R is it?” Sophie nodded.

“Smart play on words there.” Danielle commended. “It’s clear she didn’t come up with this on her own.”

“How?” Tom asked.

“Does she seem like a professional wrestling fan to you? I mean; did she sit down and watch Summerslam when you two were…whatever you did together?” she asked.

“Summerslam?”

“That’s a no then. Professional wrestling, The Rock, Triple H, Stone Cold Steve Austin, John Cena, all those guys, the WWE, it’s a term they use. Their good guys are called ‘Baby Faces’, or ‘Faces’, and their baddies are given the term a ‘Heel’.” She explained.

“You literally will watch anything on the TV.” Tom shook his head.

Danielle shrugged, “I rather that that Keeping up with Whoever is in Vogue This Week and other reality toilet paper.”

“Definitely.” Sophie agreed, “I feel like I am alone in a sea of gossip fodder when people start waffling on about that.” she turned to her husband, who was eating more gratin, “You are going to regret that later in the week when you are running it off.”

“Don’t care, too good. Tom, how are you not going around another ten kilo’s heavier?”

“Because I don’t get it cooked for me often, Elle’s staying at the hotel and I was over stateside doing the voice work. It’s good, though, right?” Tom smiled knowingly at his friend, Ben nodded.

“I’m just glad you guys like it, I mean, it’s not Michelin star stuff.”

“Good, that stuff is shit, it’s the size of a two-pound coin, costs two hundred and tastes like rubber.” Ben scoffed. “You can’t beat the basics.”

“You can bring the boys to Hollywood.” Elle smiled as she drank some more wine mixed with a soft drink.

“Private school boys, if that counts.” Sophie chuckled.

“Says Ms Oxford.” Ben retorted.

“God, posh people,” Elle sniggered, causing Tom to chuckle and Sophie and Ben to stop bickering.

*

“So, you said this was your parents?” Sophie was getting ready to go upstairs after a pleasurable evening of talking.

“Yeah, my mum got it in some weird boutique place in the bog arse of nowhere back home.”

“Didn’t she mind you bringing it over here with you?”

“No, she and dad, they’re…gone.”

Sophie’s face filled with horror. “Oh, God, I’m so sorry, I didn’t…what…?”

“It’s fine, I mean it’s sort of commonplace, isn’t it?” Elle shrugged with a sad smile. “She had cancer, and dad just wasn’t the same after, his health went downhill fast, he was so stressed before and it was worse after for him, he was a workaholic so it was always her that made sure he ate and looked after himself, so with her gone and me in college…”

“You moved over after…”

“Yeah, didn’t want to stay there, dad was saying how there were more opportunities over here, and when I dropped out because I decided I rather do something different, I thought it was the better option to come here.”

“Why Suffolk though?”

“I’m not a city person, I prefer the quiet of the countryside, Suffolk was by chance, I found an opening here, decided it was the place for me, used the money from the sale of my parents place and my dad’s practise to get a nice house, which,” she looked around her. “I think I did pretty well with, and it just so happened that my neighbour was a nice woman who I spoke to the day I was viewing it and she convinced me to buy, saying it was a nice area, quiet and someday a great place to have my family and when I moved in, her kids came to help me, one of whom happened to be Tom.”

“That must have been a shock.” Sophie chuckled.

“It was, I mean, I like comic book movies, so I knew of Loki, but when Tom was in front of me, I hadn’t realised who he was, and was just looking at him with that funny suspicious look of ‘I know you from somewhere’.” Elle blushed as Sophie laughed.

“Oh God, really?”

“How he did not walk out of the place and have his mum file a restraining order, I don’t know.” She shook her head in shame.

“Ha-ha, sorry, but that’s hilarious, I love it.” Sophie laughed.

“How about you, Ben said you met on set years ago?”

“Yes, back when he was a bit of a nobody in the game too, a few bits here and there, but we had other people then, and by the time we started something, he was huge.”

“Yeah, I don’t know how you do it, the public stuff, and all they write about you and Christopher, and probably now this little bubble too.”

“You can’t let it get to you. Sometimes it’s jealousy, sometimes spite, others just want to bitch about anyone and others…I don’t know what their problem is, but they can just get over themselves, I love Ben, he loves me and Kit, and we live pretty normally off the red carpet, and as long as it stays like that, we are happy.”

“But you are accomplished too, you’re in his game, I am just a set person, I can only imagine what they will say if it gets out.”

“‘When’ not ‘if’,” Sophie corrected. “You will get some heat, after all, Tom and Ben are the ‘Internet’s Boyfriends’ but most will love that you are not a stick-thin, Hollywood Barbie, you are exactly what they all dream would happen, as cliché as it is, you are ‘The Girl Next Door’ literally.”

“God, that is fucking cliché.” Elle laughed.

“And it gives them a little hope too, that is something.”

“It is also going to add some heat.”

“Yes, I read what the papers wrote after the dinner with him and his mum.”

“You read a lot of gossip stuff?”

“Normally no, but after meeting Ms Swift, I wanted to see what they were saying about poor Tom and I saw the whole thing with you and him on a few papers.”

“Yeah, some were not very nice.” Elle played with her fingers.

“Tabloids never are, but the other’s will be the majority opinion, ‘wholesome’ is not a word used much in entertainment.”

“It sounds a lot like the word fat.”

“By some standards, yes, you are, you are supposed to be a size four to six, eat once every four days and snort more cocaine than you can handle to stave hunger pains, and you are not that, so they will hate you for it, because Tom clearly prefers you and that is not what their magazines tell them is sexy.”

“Thank you.” Elle gave a small smile. “I really wanted to talk to someone about this, but Tom doesn’t get it from this point of view, I mean, he understands, but doesn’t understand, if that makes sense?”

“He comprehends it, but does not feel it himself, so doesn’t have first-hand experience of it.” Sophie nodded. “I know that feeling.” There was a small hint of bitterness in her tone. “I thought for ages that no one could understand what it was like, especially when it was revealed we were engaged, even more so after it was announced I was pregnant.”

“Who helped you?”

“Amanda, Martin’s other half, she literally just came up to me one day, hugged me, threw the men out of the room and demanded I tell her exactly how I was feeling, and pushed and pushed until finally, I caved.”

“You never acted like it affected you.”

“In public, God no, but behind closed doors, I was terrified, and Ben had no idea how to help, Amanda saved us, I was so scared, I wanted to run and hide and never go in front of a camera again.”

“I’m glad you didn’t, you guys are amazing, and your son is the most gorgeous little cutie going.”

“When he wants to be, he can be temperamental.” Sophie smiled fondly.

“Hey, he’s male, it’s to be expected.” Elle dismissed, earning a loud laugh from Sophie.

[silverynight]

A false impression

Percival Graves met Theseus Scamander when he was already the Director of Magical Security at MACUSA. They worked together on a case to find and bring down Grindelwald and his followers. He and some of the Ministry's workers decided to join forces to end the dark lord once and for all. During the month they were in New York, Percival became very good friends with Theseus and learned a few things about him. One of the most curious things was the fact that despite of being a famous war hero, people didn't know much about Theseus Scamander. He was very reserved when it came to his private life and only talked about himself with a handful of people. The only thing Percival knew about his family was that his parents had died long time ago. He also learned that Theseus couldn't stop himself from talking about Newt. He always talked about him. The first time he did it was after the first week, they all had worked so hard they decided they needed a rest and went to a pub. Theseus had a glass with whiskey and was turning it around in his fingers, looking at it like it was his worst enemy. "He's probably in Africa by now," he commented with a depressed expression on his face. "Who?" Percival asked, although he didn't know why he did it since it was clear Theseus had a little bit too much drink for one night and was starting to lose himself. "Newt," a smile returned to his features when the name came out of his mouth. Then he began to ramble about how Newt was the best thing that could have happened to him. He was proud of him and all the things he had managed to accomplish. The only thing that bothered him was the boy traveled too much to do his research and spent so many days away from home. "You know what he did when I told him not to follow me to the war?" "He followed you," Percival chuckled, having the weird sensation that he would like Newt if he had the chance to meet him. "He did!" Theseus nodded and frowned at the empty glass. "We used to have dragons in our regiment. They wanted to use them, but they​ have to cancel the program because the dragons attacked everyone but Newt." Theseus smiled fondly at the memory and leaned in the table. Percival found himself more interested in the story and in the wizard capable of taming dragons. "I'm glad it got cancelled, you know?" He said, looking irritated. "Because it was very difficult for me to keep an eye on Newt. Those damned beasts didn't let me near him!" Percival knew the exact moment when the alcohol hit Theseus' system completely when the auror rested his head over the table and started to sob and cry how much he missed his Newt. At the end of the night, Percival (and one of Theseus' subordinates) had to take him back to his hotel room. Percival didn't find out who Newt was until days later. Drunk or not, Theseus did really enjoy talking about Newt. And because of that Percival learned a couple of things about him. He was a magizoologist and he was the best in what he did; he loved magical and non-magical creatures and he lacked​ of self preservation. "He thinks all creatures are fluffy kittens," Theseus told him and even though he wanted to sound angry, there was a clear spark of amusement dancing in his eyes. He learned that Newt had a kleptomaniac creature that loved shiny things. "That damned Niffler stole my ring!" Theseus huffed. "I tried to cast a spell to recover it, but Newt stopped me before I could do it. He said it'd scared the Niffler." "You should've insisted," Percival commented, curious to see his friend's reaction. "No, Newt would've gone mad at me," Theseus told him. "The last time he was mad he stopped talking to me for a week." His eyebrows quirked up in surprise. Percival couldn't quite believe one of the most powerful aurors of Britain was afraid of another wizard giving him the silent treatment. But Newt was not any wizard, was he? He was different, special, at least to Theseus. Percival thought Newt was Theseus' friend, but somehow that didn't seem quite right. He knew later that Newt had a case full of magical (and also quite illegal) creatures and Theseus let him get in and out of the Ministry, with the case in hand, whenever he wanted. It seemed Newt had Theseus completely wrapped around his little finger. Percival found that rather amusing. He didn't found out more about Newt until Theseus stormed into his office, with a letter in his hands and a huge smile on his face. The auror turned the paper around to show him what it was and Percival got​ a glimpse of a elegant handwriting, but what he could see was the signature. Newt Scamander, it said. Percival blinked in confusion and looked at Theseus who was already concentrated reading the letter. "Newt Scamander?" He mumbled before he could stop himself. "Yes, I told you he sent it to me," Theseus said. "No, I meant... He's Scamander," he tried again, feeling stupid saying it because of the way Theseus was looking at him. "Of course his last name is Scamander!" Theseus rolled his eyes. "What's going on with you today? Are you okay? Have you been drinking lately?" "Not even a glass of wine," Percival said​. "Besides, why wouldn't he be? I thought it was obvious. After all he's my-" But Richards entered​ the office without even knocking first, insisting it was urgent. And it was. They had found Grindelwald's base of operations and they needed to go as soon as possible. The fight didn't last long; they captured the majority of Grindelwald's followers, the problem was the dark lord himself had managed to escape. Disappointment fell over the whole group, but they managed to cheer up a little bit when they remembered it was just a couple of days more for them to return home. And Theseus was happy, because he was going to see Newt again after a very long and exhausting month. He was so excited he started to babble about Newt... again, only this time he was heard by a wizard at the pub they were in. And the man moved his chair closer. "Are you talking about Newt Scamander?" He asked, genuinely curious. "I met him in France. He's a sweet little thing, isn't he?" Theseus didn't answer, his response was to press the glass in his hands harder than he should. "He saved me from a wampus. I haven't seen him since then," the man sighed, sad. "I wonder if any of you could tell me where he is... I really want to see him again, maybe invite him some dinner and-" Theseus leaned in and took the man's arm in a grip Percival was sure it was painful. But his smile, it was the most terrifying thing he had seen. "Listen, you... whoever you are I don't care, Newt Scamander is off limits, do you understand? Because if I see you near him, you'll miss the wampus he saved you from." Then the story about the ring came to Percival's mind and an idea formed in his mind. Of course, it was so obvious. Newt was Theseus' husband. Percival was really curious about their story together, but he was not the man that used to ask people questions about their private lives, he preferred to wait until said person is comfortable enough to tell their story. Besides, there was no time left, because Theseus was going back to England. *** They didn't see each other after that, but they kept writing. And it wasn't that Theseus life wasn't interesting but the best part of his letters was when he wrote about Newt. Percival found himself smiling and grinning the most when he read something about the magizoologist. Because it seemed Newt was as wild as the creatures he took care of. More than once he laughed out loud while reading how Newt had found another dangerous creature and took it to the house, making Theseus almost have a heart attack. After a few of those letters, Percival not only wrote about the problems in MACUSA, he also added a few questions about Newt. But they were just innocent questions. Where was Newt at the moment? What kind of creature was he studying the most? He asked and stopped himself from adding things like What color are his eyes? How does his voice sound like? Mercy Lewis seemed to have heard his prayers because the next letter came with a photograph. Theseus wanted to prove Percival Newt kept taking beasts into their house. But Percival didn't pay much attention to the little occamy in the wizard's hands, because the wizard himself was way more interesting than the creature. Newt was breathtaking. He had the most beautiful smile he had ever seen. And his eyes were shining with joy as he looked at the occamy and caressed it with his fingers. Then he turned his head to the camera and he could see lovely freckles all over his cheeks. His curls fell over his forehead and his eyes looked away from the camera in an gesture of adorable shyness. Percival kept the picture, of course he did. After all Theseus gave it to him, didn't he? There wasn't anything wrong about that. The problem started days later when Percival brought home a beautiful frame for the photograph and left it in his bedroom where he could see it perfectly before falling asleep. He didn't have time to think about it, because Grindelwald attacked him. *** It took Percival a long time to be back to himself after being rescued. Newt's photograph (that thanks Mercy Lewis Grindelwald didn't destroy) and Theseus' letters with news of Newt helped a lot. To say that he was impressed was a underestimation, he was more than that when auror Goldstein told him it was Newt who noticed the Graves that sentenced them to death wasn't the real one. He not only felt impressed, he felt relieved to know Newt didn't believe he'd do something like that to him. He'd never hurt Newt. Even though he hadn't actually met him. But he did, he met him two years after his rescue. Newt had returned New York to visit auror Goldstein and her sister and he also brought copies of his book with him. Percival already knew about that, Theseus sent him a long letter about how proud he was of Newt and how much he wanted the whole world to notice the other wizard's talents. But even though the information and the picture, Percival was not prepared. Seeing that kind and warm smile spreading slowly over those freckled features was completely different from seeing it on a photograph. Newt's presence was like a ray of sunshine, he was full of energy, an energy that was difficult to follow, but Percival did it anyway. He ignored the inner voice that warned him about getting too close, he knew what was going to happen, what was already happening and did nothing to stop it. He gave Newt all the permits he needed, he started to have lunch with him in the cafeteria and adapted his own office to make it a place more comfortable for the magizoologist, so he didn't have to leave. He knew, but ignored. Percival let himself fall little by little. He asked the other wizard to be on first name basis because he couldn't stand calling him Mr Scamander anymore. He felt guilty for putting in the president's head Newt would be very valuable for MACUSA, but he felt worse when Newt accepted, because part of him was overwhelmed with happiness. He was also curious and hopeful. Why did Newt accept a job so far from Theseus? Was there something wrong? What was happening between the two? But he didn't ask, it was not his place. He met the Niffler when the thing stole his pocket watch. And when he found out he didn't care, that he liked the way Newt's cheeks flushed or the sensation of his skin when their fingers touch as Newt returned him the watch, he knew there was no coming back from that. It got worse at MACUSA's dance. All years there was a celebration for the anniversary of MACUSA. All workers were invited. Percival had to go because he was the Director of Magical Security and because Picquery basically ordered him to go. Newt, on the other hand, wasn't a people's person and Percival knew he'd prefer to be taking care of his creatures, but he also knew Miss Goldstein was his friend and she could be really persuasive sometimes. So Percival Graves spent the night trying not to stare at Newt, but it was unfair, because he was wearing a really good suit and he looked stunning with it. The problem was that he wasn't the only one who noticed, therefore it didn't took long for Newt to be surrounded by wizards and witches who wanted to dance with him. Percival walked towards him, reminding himself he had promised Theseus to take care of him. He also conveniently ignored the voice that called him hypocrite, the same voice that was telling him he was doing that just because he was jealous. "May I have this dance?" He asked. He hadn't recalled being that flustered since he was twelve. It was almost ridiculous. And it was even more ridiculous when all his​ worries fade away when Newt smiled at him and took his hand. "Thanks for getting me​ out of there," Newt said. "It's not that I don't like them. They seem good people, but I'm not used to be around so many people." "You're welcome," Percival smirked and forgot about everything else. He took Newt by his slender waist and pulled him close. "I feel comfortable around you," he said and Percival felt warm inside. He leaned in, pressing their foreheads together, he stayed like that because Newt didn't push him away. He looked into those hazel eyes and wondered what would have happened if he had met Newt before Theseus did. Maybe he was losing it, but he felt like Newt and him fit together. But it couldn't be. It could never be. *** Percival knew it was going to happen sooner or later, but honestly he wanted more time. Theseus had arrived at MACUSA and knowing him he was going to convince Newt to leave with him. But Percival refused to let Newt go without telling him everything. He wasn't so lucky because before he could move, Theseus stormed into his office. He was angry, which didn't surprise him. "Why didn't you tell me Newt was officially working for MACUSA?" He demanded. "I thought he had told you," Percival's lie sounded weak even to his ears. "He didn't." "Maybe he had a reason to do that," he blurted out. "Where's he?" Theseus asked, ignoring him. "I don't know." Another lie, he knew Newt so well by then he was sure he was sitting on the couch at Tina's office at the moment. He sighed and looked at Theseus, he deserved to know too. "I'm in love with him," he said before he regretted it. "What?" "I've fallen in love with Newt," Percival breathed and didn't flinch when Theseus growled. He was pissed, of course he was. "You utter cock! I trusted you!" He snarled. "But if you think just because you're my friend I'm gonna let you put your dirty hands on my baby brother you're terribly mistaken!" Percival blinked a few times before he could process what Theseus had said. "Newt's your brother?" That just seemed to irritate Theseus even more. "Of course he is! But you know that already, Graves!" "I didn't," he admitted. "I thought he was your husband." "What?" The words catch Theseus off guard. But when he realised, he bursted into laughter. Percival didn't care he was laughing at him. He felt relieved. "Just to make one thing clear, no matter how funny I find this, that doesn't mean I approve your- hey!" Percival left Theseus and apparated outside Tina's office. He walked in like the desperate man he was and sat next to his magizoologist. Marry me he wanted to say, but bit his lip before saying it. He had waited so long he wasn't going to ruin it. "Do you want to have dinner with me?" Percival asked feeling his heart on his throat. "Of course," Newt responded too quickly. He looked quite calm for someone that got flustered for almost anything. Auror Goldstein cleared her throat and make a motion with her hand, like she wanted him to add something more. Then he understood. "Like a date," he added. "Oh... Oh!" Newt blushed prettily. "I mean... yes, I'll have dinner with you." Percival couldn't help himself and kissed Newt's hand and the wizard's face turned into a deeper shade of red. "What are you doing, Graves? Hands off!" Theseus entered the room. Percival saw auror Goldstein sigh. "So you thought he was married and you still were planning how to woo him?" "Don't mind him, he's being overdramatic," Newt told him, then his brother's words hit him. "You thought I was married? With whom?" "It's a long story."

[abbymxx]

I went into town with Don. I was ready and pumped for this. We went back to the night club in Newcrest.

There wasn’t much people there like usual but I didn’t mind. Don and I got our groove on and danced for a while, then we sat and chatted. After dancing I felt thirsty and went over to the bar to order a drink whilst Don carried on dancing.

At the bar I met Nina Caliente, the mixologist at the bar, she seemed friendly and we chatted for a few minutes. Don came over to me and asked if I was still fine and gave me a hug. When Don came over I noticed that Nina went to the other side of the bar and looked a bit flustered.

I wondered if something was going on with the two of them.

Nina didn’t seem to like me that much after she saw Don come over. After he left she struck up a conversation with me but it seemed a bit forced.

“So are you enjoying your DATE?” she seemed to emphasise the last word and said it with disgust.

“Who with Don, oh no no no you got that wrong I don’t see him that way, not at all. He’s just a friend.”

“A friend you’re sleeping with?” she asked sarcastically.

“Woah no ew definitely not. Don’t get me wrong he’s really handsome and all but I told him when we met that I had no intention on being his one night stand”

Nina seemed to be happy with that answer and I was relieved.  I really didn’t have a girlfriend to hang out with, I only really had Don but I couldn’t speak to him about “girl things”. So I was hoping that this would develop into a friendship. I needed all the friends I could get because they’re all I have.

“Let me tell you a little something about Don. He’s a player, not just any player but the biggest of them ALL! Trust me I know first hand”

“Oh no, what did Don do?” I asked with a sigh at the end.

She went on rambling about what Don had done to her. Apparently he had taken her out on a date and then slept with her. They had gone on a few more dates but the next week she found out that he was fooling around with another girl. The worst part of that story, and I really felt sorry for her, was that he was fooling around with… Her own SISTER! I couldn’t believe Don would do that. But I think that I will have a little chat with, but I don’t know how much good that will do.

After Nina’s shift ended she asked if I wanted to join her at another club and I readily accepted. Why not? I was young and had loads of catching up to do.

Don decided to go else where so it was now girl time which neither of us minded because I think with Don it would have been awkward.

I had fun that night. We danced and drank and chatted the whole night into the early hours of the morning.

I eventually said that I had to go home because I had work in a few hours.

The next day after work I decided to go out again. I went over to the next town Oasis Springs to their bar. I met this guy there named Jonathon Renteria and I tried out my new flirtation skills, which Nina had introduced me to last night. I used some pick up lines even though I was not the best at it but we seemed to be hitting it off.

Until he seemed to be getting to close for my liking. Then I learnt very quickly that he was a kleptomaniac as he tried to steal my wallet from my pocket. A first time for everything hey, but I was so shocked.



I moved straight away from him and to the other side of the bar. That’s when I met Mitchell Kalani.

I didn’t know what this feeling  was, it was creeping up inside of me, I had never really experienced a proper real romantic relationship but I guess this is what it feels like at the beginning. I’ve realised that I haven’t experienced a lot that a girl my age should have. I feel a bit sadden by that but I knew I would try to make it up to myself.

      Getting back to Mitchell, he was such a sweetheart.  He paid so much attention to me and listened to everything I had to say. I must be honest I was scared of these feelings that just appeared so fast for someone I had just met. But I was also enjoying the attention I was getting. I told him a bit about my past and my parents and he told me about his. It was so great to sit and talk with someone for ages. After a while he slid closer to me and my heart started pumping faster. I hope he doesn’t see that.

I even lost track of time, something I have been doing far to often lately. I checked my watch when I got home after the night with Mitchell and it read 4:30! I was shocked but also dreamy from my time with Mitchell. I really hope that this can blossom into something really meaningful. I went to sleep with sweet thoughts of that evening.

Chapter 6: Round Two!? I went into town with Don. I was ready and pumped for this. We went back to the night club in Newcrest.