#i also have been feeling bad about not giving jolly enough attention lately so there we go

[mooberg]

Among the Statues

Chapter 5: Waves on the Rocks

All it took was a deal to get me to chapter 5 lol. Not satisfied with this one, but it’s fine. There will be more.

Lvc created by @voiceoflarka

Word Count: 3300 exactly lol

Warnings: None, it’s actually a light chapter

Enjoy!

Horns fell to his knees, sliding in the wet earth and acquiring several tiny cracks from the rocks hidden in the grass. He'd probably feel them tomorrow, not that he wanted to face tomorrow. He didn't even want to face the next couple hours.

There was no way he could wake them all up. But if he left them there…

He felt himself running away from that courtyard of shards even as he stayed rooted in the field. He couldn't bear to see his team in that state. They were... family. They were family. And he hoped he'd have the chance to tell them that. He'd make sure of it.

With a deep breath, he crossed his legs, flinching at the pain in his knees. Okay so maybe tomorrow had come early. And maybe he'd have enough strength to push through.

~

He weighed his options carefully as his eyes moved from face to face. Ultimately, he knew who he needed first.

"Agh, my wings!" Her voice jolted Horns out of his trance immediately.

"Gamms?" He rushed to his feet and then to her, hoping to help in some way. But he should have known she'd be able to handle herself, and he reaffirmed that notion as she methodically crunched through the ice encasing her wings.

"Horns." She eventually looked up at his offered hand, allowing him to pull her to her feet.

"Are you alright?" He asked worriedly.

"Me? I'm fine." She dismissed. "You woke me up, so you resisted her spell again. Are you okay? Did she hurt you?"

Horns shook his head unconvincingly. "I'm fine."

"Horns." Gamma stepped closer, trying to get a better read on his face. "Did she hurt you?"

"I said I'm fine, I just-" Horns cut himself off with a sigh. "We have bigger things to worry about."

Gamma chose to let that drop for the moment but made a note to circle back. She looked across at her team with worry.

"I don't think I can do it." Horns said quietly.

"And we can't just leave them here."

"And if we try to move them..."

"But I don't want you pushing yourself too far..."

"We don't have a choice." Horns' whisper was laced with defeat.

"What's that going to do to you?" Gamma asked, knowing he'd already resigned himself to pushing too far.

"Wish I knew." He replied. "Then maybe this wouldn't be so hard."

"You've proven to be capable of four dives in a day-"

Horns cut her off with a shake of his head. "No, I'm not nearly that close yet. Waking up the four of you almost killed me. I could barely manage three."

"And now we have six." Gamma sighed.

"I have to do it." Horns decided, hopelessness in his voice. He walked back to the spot he'd fallen before. Gamma followed, stretching out a wing over him to shield the rain as best she could.

"Wake up Psi first. He can help." She said, placing a hand softly on his shoulder. There was nothing else she even knew to say in this near-impossible scenario. Horns needed Psi, but she did as well.

Horns just nodded, staring down the team with fearful determination.

~

"... could be waking back up at any moment now. It would not be advisable to continue into multiple mind dives without consulting us first."

"Are you my Rabbi now?" Horns asked as he slowly opened his eyes.

"Technically, yes." Psi replied without missing a beat. "But do not call me that again."

"Okay Sifu Psi." Horns quipped.

"I am glad to see the situation has not dulled your sense of humor." Psi sighed. He shuffled a little closer to where Horns remained seated, ducking under Gamma's wing.

"Well," Horns shrugged, "there's something to be said for laughing through the tears."

"Or laughing through the fear." Psi shot back.

The remark sobered Horns up immediately and he looked away. "Something like that..."

"It's too much." Psi echoed his thoughts as he crouched next to the trainee. "Far more dives than you've ever done, or even are aware of having capacity for."

"I want to be able to do it." Horns whispered, voice barely perceptible over the falling rain. "I need to be able to do it. I'm just afraid..."

"That you cannot." Psi finished.

"I can't leave them behind. Any of them." Horns' eyes flashed with a spectrum of emotion as he looked at his team. Fear, anger, apprehension.

"You will not." Psi placed a hand on his shoulder. "You are stronger than you know."

Horns pulled away from his touch with a wince, a similar sentiment in a more icy voice echoing in his head.

"What is it?" Psi asked, brow furrowing in concern.

"You're not the first one to say that to me today." Horns shook his head as if to clear it. "But we don't have time to talk about that right now."

Psi filed that away in his mind, with a mental note to circle back at some point. "You are not alone here, Horns."

"But they're all frozen-"

"What are we to you, chopped liver?" Gamma joked, nudging his shoulder with her knee.

"And as you wake them up, you will have them at your side." Psi added.

Horns nodded. That whole speech didn't go how Psi had intended, Dragon ruined it. Dragon had ruined a lot of things lately. But Horns could see he was trying, and that was enough. He knew Psi always tried, and so should he.

"Alright." He sighed, settling into the grass. "See you on the other side."

 ~~~*~~~

 "He's shaking." Jolly reported, pressing her hand against Horns' chest where he leaned against her as she began to feel the vibrations.

Psi tore his gaze away from Glitch where she was braced to catch Callow when he woke up, his last memory being the fight with Dragon. That top hat could go off any second. He made his way quickly to the pair huddled under Gamma's wing.

"Did this just start?" He asked softly, feeling for himself.

"I think so." Jolly nodded. "He's really cold..."

He watched Horns' pulse for a few seconds. It was elevated and brighter than normal, but not to an alarming degree. He gave Jolly a small nod. "We will get him warm as soon as possible."

"He's got to be exhausted." Gamma remarked.

"He will be. I doubt he will stay conscious for long if he wakes Callow up." The signs of fatigue were clear and based on the Satyr's reaction last time he pushed himself too far, he was confident in his assumption.

"When." Jolly corrected firmly. "When he wakes Callow up."

Psi hesitated, ready to correct her, but instead just nodded. He didn't want to upset her with his realism, no matter how much faith he had in his trainee.

"If she can freeze us so quick... how are we going to stop her?" Equo spoke of Dragon, turning in place to continue her pacing. The grass would have a permanent line in it soon.

"We'll just have to be more on the ball." Peony said. "This was the first time we fought her. We didn't know what we were up against."

"We couldn't even land a single punch." Glitch agreed, her focus on Callow unwavering. "Her reflexes are something else."

"We can strategize once we get somewhere safe." Psi said. "We do not even know where she is currently."

Peony quirked an eyebrow. "Where are we go-"

"Come at me bi- oh, hi Glitch." Callow halted his run quickly, an explosion going off a few dozen feet behind them. It was thankfully in the treeline and likely wouldn't cause any harm. "What the fuck happened?"

"She got away." Glitch explained quickly. "Not before freezing us. Horns has been waking us up."

"Is he okay?" Callow asked her softly. Glitch's pained reaction spelled out the 'I don't know' better than her words could, and he gripped her shoulder tight for a moment.

"We don't know where she went, what she wants..." Peony shook her head. "We don't know anything."

The Gator virus whipped out his tablet, holding his hat over it to protect from the rain. "Nothing on surveillance. She just... disappeared."

"We need to do the same." Gamma said. "We need time to regroup and rest. Especially Horns."

"Where are we going?" Peony tried to ask again.

Horns came out of his trance slowly, slumping onto Jolly with an agonized groan of pain and pulling everyone's attention. She and Psi reacted quickly, supporting his exhausted frame.

"Did I do it?" He asked, voice barely even a whisper. "Are they okay?"

"You did it." Jolly replied even more softly, kissing him on the cheek. "You can rest now, Horny, we're okay."

With a sigh, he collapsed further onto her, completely spent.

"That is that then." Psi announced with a curt nod.

"Then let's get going." Gamma finally folded her wing behind her back and scooped Horns up bridle style. "It's a bit of a journey and we should stop at the dorm for some dry clothes."

"But where are we going?"

 ~~~*~~~

 The world slowly melted into a sea of pain as Horns felt the sweet embrace of sleep ebb away. Wave after wave of agony washed over him, throbbing in his skull like the bass at a concert. It stole his breath away until he felt himself gasping for air.

Hands were suddenly on him, pulling his arms away. He didn't understand why until he felt the pressure of his palms against his temples. He was trying to find some semblance of relief but in the process may only be finding harm. He let the hands guide him, listening to their muted voices far too distant to comprehend. One ran down the side of his face, but he flinched away from what could once have been a calming gesture.

The pinprick in his right arm that normally would have pulled his full attention was swept up in another wave of pain. The hands remained, but the voices slowly faded away, washing back to shore until he was left in the soothing black void once again.

~

The second time Horns slipped back into consciousness was much slower and, thankfully, calm. Black gave way to soft yellow, and this time he actually managed to open his eyes, blinking against the light even though it was low. A quick self check-in showed a slight headache remaining, and a mental exhaustion unlike anything he'd ever felt before. But his body was done with sleep, so he sluggishly looked around.

The walls were old, muted in colour. Everything was lit up with a series of lamps, casting spots of yellow and white light in various random parts of the room. And the ceiling... was covered with webs. Horns had to force himself to lie still, knowing that if he shot up now like he wanted to he'd spike his headache. In any case, his view of the ceiling was quickly blocked out as an angel overtook it.

"Welcome back." Jolly greeted him with a soft grin.

Horns didn't say anything, just pulled her to him and held her close. He pressed his lips to her hair and just breathed her in for a couple of minutes. To her credit, she didn't say anything. But he supposed there was nothing to say.

"Are you alright?" He eventually whispered, voice hoarser than he anticipated.

"Yeah." She replied. "Yeah, we all are."

Horns let out a long sigh, letting his eyes close.

Jolly squirmed in his grasp and he loosened his grip to let her, drawing his eyes back open as he felt her gaze on him. "What about you?"

"Let me wake up all the way." He said. "Then I'll give you a full report."

"Sit up at least." Jolly prodded him. "Everyone's been waiting."

He let her pull him up, the 'everyone' causing his soul to flare. Everyone. His team. Were they okay? Had he really done it? Or was Jolly just lying to him to make him feel better?

She wasn't. Horns could have sobbed right then and there as he took in the sight of them but fought it down. They were okay. They were alive and whole and right here with him in... wherever they were. Relief wrote itself plainly across his face.

"You're... okay." He sighed. "You're all okay."

"We're alright." It was Callow that responded first, and the softness in his voice made Horns smile at his old friend.

"How long was I out?" He asked, rubbing his tired eyes with the hand not in Jolly's soft grasp.

"Almost thirteen hours."

That startled him more than it should have, and his hand froze in it's descent towards what he now realized was an air mattress. He looked around at his team hunkered down in the small studio apartment.

Glitch was at the foot of the air mattress, curled up like she, too, had recently woken up. The mattress was only a double, and Horns would guess she'd let Jolly sleep next to him so they could still give him some space. Peony, Equo, and Callow leaned up against the left wall, Equo's legs in Peony's lap. Psi and Gamma sat on the edge of an actual mattress, propped up on what looked like stacks of books. Horns briefly worried for their backs in that position, but beggars couldn't be choosers.

They looked happy to see him awake, but there was an obvious tiredness underneath. It looked like they'd been keeping themselves occupied in the restless quiet for hours, which they probably had been while they waited for him to wake.

He sighed. "I haven't slept that long in forever."

"You were exhausted. Understandably." Horns gave Psi a once-over. His expression was unreadable as usual, but the prominent tension in his shoulders belied the stress they all felt. Magnified, no doubt, as this was his team of trainees.

"How'd we get here? And where is here?" Horns looked himself over. "...and who changed my clothes?"

"That was me." Glitch said, too tired to wink or react in any Glitchy way. The relief was clear on her face, and the fear she must have been experiencing over the past thirteen hours or more hit Horns like a ton of bricks.

"We stole some bikes and I flew you here." Gamma also looked tired, but the familiar spark in her eye was not gone, and that soothed him more than he'd ever say. "We're at one of our safe houses in Night Lover."

Horns was tempted to ask about the webs, but let the question die before it even touched his lips. He couldn't be sure, but he had a feeling his mentors wouldn't want to give the answer.

"Any activity from Dragon?" He asked.

"None." Callow replied. "Streets have been stupid quiet." For Callow to be in sweatpants, the situation really must have been dire. They were designer, and printed with little white stars, but still. Horns couldn't decide if they clashed with the top hat or not, but that was more Cal's specialty anyway.

"The situation has calmed and is under control, Horns." Psi assured him. "It would be prudent to worry about your own wellbeing for the moment. How are you feeling now that you have awoken?"

His knees suddenly piped up to remind him of their cracks, but he brushed that aside. "I'm still exhausted but I don't think I could sleep more even if I tried. And my head still kills."

"Here, drink this." A water bottle was suddenly thrust into his hand. Peony looked down at him with hard eyes, the mask she typically adopted to hide her emotions shielding her from the world. "You hungry?"

Horns shook his head, missing the way Psi frowned at his response.

"Would you try eating if I brought you something?" Peony prodded.

"No I..." The thought of food actually made him feel nauseous. "I'm really not hungry."

Peony just nodded, going to sit back beside Equo. The shorter woman's silence spoke more than her words ever could; exhaustion, frustration, and fear taking root deep within her. He held her eye, the two silently checking in. She was fine, but she'd be better when all this was over.

"So..." Jolly nudged him with her shoulder. "you have any visions?"

"Dreamless sleep." Horns shook his head.

"We don't know where to go from here." Peony said.

"No leads, no idea what she wants," Gamma purposefully looked right into his soul. "nothing."

Horns sucked in a sharp breath.

"What happened?" Glitch asked softly.

"We would have been frozen at least a few minutes before you could wake one of us up." Psi chimed in.

"What did she say to you?" It was Jolly's ever soft tone that grounded him, and he leaned toward her slightly.

"She didn't tell me anything." He said. "About her goals, her intentions, anything about her at all."

"She didn't say anything to you?" Gamma pushed.

Horns made a few noncommittal facial expressions, too tired to even bother with gestures.

"What. Did she. Say?" Glitch growled, her protective nature pulling at his heartstrings in a way no one would expect from the anger in her voice.

"Well... you saw the way she looked at me!" The words burst out of him, the fear and anxiety untethered with the sheer exhaustion that still blanketed him. "Like I was some prize to be won, some exotic bird she was just itching to lock away in a guilded cage."

He looked briefly at Psi. "She told me I had potential, practically salivating at the idea of the... power I hold, I guess? And the thought of her helping me unlock that power. Training me. And she said that she knew me, knew more about me than I thought. I think she's latched on to the idea of testing me through all this."

"So it's become some sort of sick game." Gamma summarized. "Now that she's got the world in her grasp, she wants to play with the only one who keeps getting in her way."

"I guess." Horns frowned, the prospect deeply disturbing to him.

"Then we'll just have to not give her a chance."

~

With little else to do, the team settled in to the quiet of the small apartment. The storm had long since passed, and there was, of course, no city noise outside. Every word spoken cut through the silence like a knife. At some point Gamma and Psi had left through the bramble covered front door, the thorny vines receding when they passed through, and growing back once they were gone. Psi wasn't taking any chances.

On his orders Horns had remained in bed, continuing his rest. He hadn't needed much convincing. Glitch and Jolly piled in with him, the rest of the team letting the triad have their space. And, well, they didn't want to pop the air mattress.

"You're worried." Glitch said quietly, looking over the lines etched across his face.

He pulled himself out of his thoughts to look at her, tearing his eyes away from Jolly sleeping soundly across their laps. "I mean... yeah."

"What do you think she'll do to you?" She asked.

"I wish I knew." He sighed. "The way she spoke about teaching me, 'shaping my mind'..."

"Do you think she'd want you for her own?" The question stung, but it had to be asked.

"I think she'd be delighted to try." Horns said. "And once she had me- well, I'd rather not think about that."

"We're not going to let her take you." Glitch promised him firmly.

Horns offered her a weak smile. Deep down, he didn't think it would matter if they even tried.

[ijustwant2write]

Reconnect-Finn Shelby x Reader

(GIF credit to @peakystitches​)

Masterlist

Tags: @captivatedbycillianmurphy​ @jenepleurepasbaby​ @amirahiddleston​ @bloodorangemoonlight @haphazardhufflepuff​ @mzcrazy2​

Requested by anonymous: ‘Hello! May i request an either tommy or finn shelby x reader? (Whicheverr one u think suits best) for this prompt i found: character A and B have been in a longterm relationship and nothing can get in between, until one day something does and they drift away. But then they reconnect emotionally and everything feels like the first time again (first kiss, first meal together etc) 🙏🏼💜 i love ur writing thank u’

Characters: Finn Shelby x Reader, Polly Gray x Reader (platonic)

Meanings: (Y/N)=Your name

Warnings: Swearing, arguing, finance issues, drinking, fluff

                                    *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Finn, is that you?" I called out from our bedroom as I heard the front door open. I tensed up when I didn't hear a reply, only to let out a sigh when I heard him giggling.

He was drunk again, it happened almost every week now. Tommy would have given him something important to do for the gang, and whether or not Finn succeeded with that task, he would go out and celebrate with his mates. I would sometimes tag along if I wasn't tired from the week of working, but after seeing our finances, I realised we needed to stop acting like teenagers and start saving wisely.

"Hello my gorgeous girl." he slurred out as he entered the room.

"Hello Finn." I replied as I received a sloppy kiss to my forehead.

He flopped down beside me in bed, taking the book out of my hands and throwing it to the floor. Finn wrapped his arms around me, snuggling into my lap. I took off his hat, stroking back his hair. He was cold from the brisk walk home, causing me to shiver.

“You should have come out tonight." he said.

"I got off work late."

"He kept you again?"

"No, I decided to stay."

"Why? You always say you're tired."

"I'm tired because I'm picking up extra shifts and hours so that we can start saving up for a house."

"I've told you, we don't need to worry about that. Business is good."

"Finn, we're not going to be given the money. We have to earn it."

"Tommy will help us."

"He might help but he won't give us a lot. And even if he did hand us a house, we've got to have enough money for the bills, furniture-"

"It will be fine."

"Finn, we've not even had our wedding yet!"

We had been engaged for half a year. We were wanting to be married sooner, but problems arose with the Peaky Blinders it distracted us both from it, especially since our lives were in danger. I desperately wanted to have enough money for the wedding and house, though it looked like it was going to be one or the other at this point.

"What's wrong with the flat?" Finn now sat up.

"Did you seriously ask me that question? There's only so much I can do to this dump to make it look somewhat liveable. It just doesn't feel like home."

"We'll get the money. Don't worry. Look, look," he took my hands in his,"we will get a house. I promise. And believe me, I want to marry you as soon as I can, there needs to be another ring on that finger. And I need to see my name at the end of yours."

I stupidly believed him. Those adoring eyes I once trusted had lied to me. Finn kept his promise for a week at max, soon breaking it. I didn't mind him going out with friends, we both needed to socialise, I just disagreed with the amount of times he was out and the amount of drinks he was buying each night. He would always offer to get the next round, and although he was a Shelby, the discounts didn't make much difference at the end of the night. I decided I had to go with him to ensure that our money wasn't being poured away, struggling to stay awake for those long nights, and making work even harder every day. It was impossible to keep an eye on him like that.

Usually Finn would tell me if he was going out that night so I wouldn't worry. That stopped too. My mind was never at ease. How did I know he wasn't lying in a ditch somewhere after a job gone wrong? Or what if he was trapped somewhere by a rival gang? I could only rest when he returned, which he always luckily did. I pretended to be asleep, trying to not push him away as he slipped his arms around me, cuddling me for the rest of the night. My patience began to grow thin. I was too scared to speak up about it, worried that we would just end up having an argument. However, I knew we would have to bring it up soon, because our money was only disappearing instead of increasing.

One morning when I was leaving for work, I noticed that the drawer we locked our savings away in was slightly ajar, meaning someone had unlocked it and stupidly left it open. Of course it had to be Finn, no one had broken in during the night. My eyes widened when I saw how much he had taken, enraged that he would think me so foolish. Why would he take the money without asking? What was he using it for?

As I stormed towards the shop, I heard whooping from men in a car further up the street. My face turned into a deep frown when I recognised the car, managing to catch a glimpse of the people in it. They hadn't seen me, and I had to make sure my eyes were deceiving me.

I didn't care about the looks on me as I burst through into the shop, making a beeline for Polly's office. I harshly knocked on the door, entering when she called me.

"(Y/N)? What's wrong?" she asked, a lit cigarette in hand.

"Where's Finn?"

"Off out with his brothers, why?"

"Where are they going?"

"To the races."

I scoffed, placing a hand on my head in defeat.

"Why? What's wrong with that?"

"He told me he would be in the office all day today."

"So? Things change."

"No, he specifically told me that. I never even asked about it. He made a point meaning he didn't want to risk me waltzing in. That means he's hiding something."

"(Y/N), they're only going to bet on horses today. They're mingling."

"They're betting today?!"

She stood, putting a hand on her hip."What am I missing here?"

"Pol, he's using money that we don't have! I need a car, I need to get to him."

"Look, even if my nephew is being the biggest idiot, it's a bad idea to go there."

"Why?"

Her eyes widened."Don't snap at me young lady."

"I'm sorry, I just, I just know he's going to be stupid with what little money we have at the minute."

Polly was silent for a few seconds, and I didn't know if she was just staring me out, trying to make me leave. Perhaps she didn't think it was anything to worry over. But it was to me. She surprised me when she went into one of her drawers, pulling out a set of keys.

"Come on. I'll get one of the girls to call your work, say you're sick."

I tightly clasped my hands together as Polly drove. I was furious, trying to think of what to say to Finn when I got there. He stole our money. He went behind my back, gambling away the money we worked hard to earn. I had never said it, but Finn had it much easier than I did. For one, he worked with family, and although I liked my job, the boss could sometimes be an arsehole; second, he earned a lot more than me, so he was the bigger breadwinner between us, but I worked longer hours. Yes, he was in a gang meaning he had more days where his life was under threat, but he seemed to be having a jolly good time anyway. Really, it wouldn't have mattered who worked longer or harder, or who earned more, it was still our money to spend on our house.

As soon as Polly parked up, I was straight out of the car. She quickly followed grabbing my arm and warning me to not get lost in the crowds. I couldn't make a scene, especially since there could be potential business partners or enemies about. I refrained from rolling my eyes, knowing she was right but also knowing that I would find it extremely hard to not scream at Finn.

Polly guided me to where the men would be, ignoring the shoving and shouting. I wished for her to walk quicker. We swiftly entered the posher boxes, almost stopped by a doorman until his accomplice shut him up. I even heard him whisper 'That's Polly Gray you idiot.', the one time I was glad we had a reputation. She only paused to scan the room for the boys but I spotted them first. Quickly moving past her, I couldn't stop my fists from clenching, seeing Finn joyfully drinking and laughing with his brothers only added fire to my fury.

"Finn!" I snapped, quickly catching his attention.

"(Y/N)?" he exclaimed, struggling to stand and clattering the plates and glasses on the table."W-what are you doing here?"

"Stopping you from spending our money like a fucking idiot! Where is it?"

"Oh, Finn boy is in the doghouse." John chuckled.

"Shut up!" I fiercely pointed at him.

"Where's what?" Finn brought me back.

"Our money!"

"I told you, you do this outside." Polly warned, shoving Finn in that direction, and I knew I had to follow him.

Luckily, we were left alone. Finn continued on, finding someplace we would be alone. Once we were in the clear, the distant roar of the crowds covering our conversation, I saw him sigh quietly, running a hand down his face when he realised what was coming.

"Where's the money Finn?" I asked, calmer but with a mean tone.

"Let me explain first.”

"Explain how you took our money without asking? How you just waltzed out this morning without consulting me?"

"Tommy said that there was a good chance, a very good chance that this horse would win, and I thought it would help us if we put our money on it. Imagine how much we'll have if it wins!"

"If it wins Finn, if! You're gambling our money, why would you do something like that?"

"Because you went on about not having enough money! And here I am trying to help!"

My mouth dropped open in shock."You really don’t see the problem here."

"No, actually, I don't." he crossed his arms over his chest.

"Finn, you stole money from the drawer! You then go behind my back and bet it away. Have you thought about what we'll do if that horse loses?"

"But it won't, Tommy said."

"And what if Tommy is wrong this time? Also, don't pin this on your brother, I know he hasn't even suggested this idea."

"I'm not-urgh!" Finn groaned."Why don't you trust me?"

"I can't trust a gamble Finn. I don't think you realise how many nights I've spent lying awake, worried that we'll never have enough for our own home, and thinking that you don't even care anymore."

"Of course I care. This is why I've bet the money."

"How is this not getting in your head?"

"(Y/N)," he took my hands in his, but I couldn't even look at him,"in a few minutes we will hear them announce the winner, and we will start jumping for joy when we realise how much money we're going to get back, and we're going to be so much closer to getting our home."

"Finn, I desperately want to believe that. But even if we do win, you're in deep trouble." I took my hands away from him, turning around. I couldn't even look at my own fiance.

On queue, we heard a man come over the intercom, it was muffled to me but I knew Finn was listening intensely. Glancing over my shoulder, I watched for his reaction, turning around fully when I saw his expression. We had lost. We lost all that money.

"How could you be so fucking stupid?!" I screamed at him, throwing slaps onto his chest."Why couldn't you just listen to me? I don't understand why you had to lie to me Finn!"

I broke down crying, shoving him away from me. My sobs were loud but I didn't care. Finn could watch, see how much he upset me. My heart sank at the thought of it all gone, Finn had left scarcely any money in the drawer back at the flat.

"I'm sorry (Y/N)." Finn pathetically said.

"You know how you always go on about your family never trusting you enough for the big jobs? That you never get to go out with them and help? This is why. Because you do things like this, you fuck everything up Finn. Fuck!" I wiped away my tears, even though more spilled out."You know I've always stuck beside you, but this is the last straw Finn. I can't be with someone who doesn't want to put effort into their future."

"What are you saying? (Y/N), I can fix this. I promise I'll get the money back, I'll-"

"How? That took us so long to build that up. And you were spending our money almost every night on useless drinking. I can't Finn, I can't live like that anymore."

He ducked his head, and I almost wanted him to say something. When he didn't, I knew what I had to do.

I took a deep breath before speaking."I'm going home. I suggest you stay at Polly's tonight."

"Let me take you home-"

"No!"

"What's going on?" Tommy suddenly appeared, he, his brothers and Polly approaching.

"Your nephew, your brother, just gave away almost all of our money betting on a horse. Not only that, but he took the money without telling me. That was money for a house." I angrily explained.

"Is that true Finn?"

Finn shamefully nodded.

"We can get you your money back (Y/N)."

"It's not about that Tom. He's lied to me. He promised me he wouldn't spend our money every week, yet he did. And then he takes our money without asking me about it first."

"I'll fix it (Y/N), I promise I will." Finn was begging at this point.

"Another promise that you're bound to break. I've had enough today."

"Let's get you home love." Polly said, putting a stop to this argument as she stepped forward, taking me under her arm.

Finn didn't come home that night. I didn't sleep. I was sat at the tiny dining table, staring at the ring on my finger, wondering what to do. It broke my heart to think about leaving him, but it also broke my heart thinking about how reckless he had been. Did I really want to be marrying someone who acted like this? Would he mature? My heart wanted to believe he would, but my mind kept telling me that today confirmed he wouldn't. That was one of the worst nights of my life.

                                     *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I couldn't stand this job any longer. But it was the only thing keeping me alive. It was crappy work, the pay was just above minimum, enough for me to buy food, pay my rent and have the tiniest amount left over. Saving up money was hard when it was just you. Even after two years, I didn't have enough to consider looking at places of my own, or with less roommates. It was exhausting keeping up with these girls I lived with, there were 6 of us altogether. It was a big change when I moved away from Small Heath.

"You ready (Y/N)?" one of my roommates called out to me as I finished applying my lipstick.

"Just a second!" I replied, checking myself in the mirror.

It was the rare occasion that I was going out with them, the one time we could all go out together at all. I was looking forward to a few drinks, and although that sounded hypocritical, I realised that I had to have a night or two in at least a month to relieve myself of the stress I put upon myself.

We arrived at the small club we always went to, it had the cheapest drinks this side of town. We all shivered in the cold weather, walking as fast as we could to make it to the club. The warmth was very welcome, as well as the loud music that drew us further in. It was the usual routine, a few of us grab a table, the others get the drinks in, then we would all make our way to the dance floor. Hours passed, and I had to get away from the heat coming from the dancing, stepping back towards our table to get a drink. I saw my roommate stumbling in the direction of the bar, rolling my eyes as I went to help her, perhaps getting a drink whilst I was there. However, once I got closer, I stared at the man she was starting to flirt with.

"Isaiah?" I said as I got closer.

"(Y/N)!" he smiled, bringing me in for a hug.

"You two know each other?" my roommate asked, looking disappointed.

"He's an old friend. Just that, nothing else."

Isaiah let me go."How long has it been? Two years?"

"Uh, yeah. Yeah, two years. What are you doing here?"

"Business. Nothing dangerous though, you girls are still in for a good night. Especially you if you're good." he winked to my roommate.

"Is he...is he here?" my voice suddenly went shaky, and I felt almost completely sober.

Isaiah's playful nature dropped."Uh, he is. He's really misses you (Y/N). Hasn't even looked at another girl since you left. He's just not been the same." I wasn't sure how to reply.

"I can't not tell him I saw you. Imagine if he found out, he would be so upset with me."

"I know. I wouldn't want to hurt your friendship."

"Maybe you should see him. It might do you both some good."

"Or the opposite."

"He still loves you. Even if you don't feel the same, it could bring closure. But I know you (Y/N), I can tell what you're thinking."

"You were always annoying like that."

"He's out front, in the corridor. That's all I'm going to say."

I looked at him for a few seconds, trying to make my mind up."Well, this one is a handful, just so you know."

"I think I can handle her." Isaiah smirked.

"I was warning her about you."

I giggled at his reaction, walking away and leaving him in his natural habitat of flirting. But as soon as I turned around, my stomach dropped, nerves filling up my entire body. He was here. I hadn't seen him for two years, though I thought about him everyday. Would he look different? Did I look different? What was he going to say? What was I going to say? My brain didn't want to think of any words, maybe I was about to babble absolute nonsense to him.

Upon seeing him, my throat tightened, the cool air slapping me in the face; oh, now I was sober. He hadn't noticed yet, leaning up against a wall, hands in his pockets. Wow, he had changed. His boyish charm was still there, yet he had matured into a handsome young man. It was like I was seeing him for the first time all over again. I was just happy that he would be seeing me in my finer clothes rather than catching me after work.

Urging my feet to move, I almost sighed at how small my steps were. I really was scared. Isaiah had said reassuring things, yet I couldn't even walk up to him. It was too late to back out now, especially when he finally looked up at me. I froze on the spot, not knowing what to do. Finn seemed the same way.

"(Y/N)." he said, I only just heard it.

"Hello."

Hello? Really, that's all I could come up with?

He pushed himself off the wall, coming to stand in front of me, though not too close."I...I can't believe you're here."

"I could say the same about you."

"This is where you've been living then."

I nodded."It's not too bad. I mean, I'm on a night out."

"Who are you with?"

I knew he was wondering if I was with a man."My roommates, I live with five other girls."

"Oh, that's a lot."

"Yeah, it's the only place I could afford."

"I hope it's nice."

"I shouldn't complain. A lot better than other places."

We both knew we were making an awful attempt at small talk. I was sure he had so much to say like I did, we just didn't want to dump it on each other in case the other ran away. It was like we were teenagers again, awkwardly trying to think of something to fill the dreaded silence.

"I really want to talk about us (Y/N)." Finn said.

"You do?"

"I...I just have so much to say to you. I can't do it now, but what about tomorrow?"

"Tomorrow? Tomorrow, um, yes, yes tomorrow works for me. It's the weekend, so I'm not working."

He smiled slightly."OK, good. I'll come get you. Um, I need your address."

"Oh, here." I dug around in my purse, thankful there was a folded up tissue and a pen, it was good to be prepared. I wrote down my address, handing it to him.

"I'll pick you up at one. I would want it to be earlier, you just never know what time you'll be back with this sort of thing."

"I understand Finn, I did live this with you once."

I barely slept, even when we stumbled in at three in the morning. Luckily I hadn't seen Finn, Isaiah or any other Peaky Blinder that evening, no doubt settling business behind the scenes. Despite the lack of sleep, I was wide awake the next morning, up before everyone else who were nursing their hangovers, trying on multiple outfits in a desperate attempt to look nice, but not as if I put too much effort in. The clock was rolling onto one o'clock, and my heart was beating much faster than usual. I was about to make my way downstairs when something glistened on my small vanity. Should I take it? Yes, I would.

Finn knocked on the door, and I waited a few seconds before opening it. We smiled as we greeted each other, not going in for a hug or kiss on the cheek, something I was worried about. That was the first hurdle jumped over.

"How was your evening?" Finn struck up a conversation as we walked further into town.

"Much better than yours I presume?" I smirked. He chuckled."Yeah, didn't exactly get to enjoy the music. Small fight, nothing we couldn't handle."

It was strange hearing about Blinder business again."Well I'm glad you're all safe."

"I thought we could go out for lunch, saw a nice place round here."

"Oh, that would be lovely."

"We don't have to, if you don't feel comfortable."

"No, no, no, it's not that. It's just a lovely thing for you to do."

We both bashfully smiled, luckily the restaurant was just around the corner. I had expected nothing less when we walked into the fancy place, not because I thought I deserved it, but because Finn wouldn't be seen anywhere else. His clothes were even more tailored now than they had been the last I saw him, indicating that the gang had been doing well, more money was coming in. We both immediately picked up our menus as we sat, hoping someone would speak first. Our eyes glanced over the top of them, it was as if we were on our first date again, only this time in a better establishment.

"You look beautiful." he said, still hiding part of his face.

"Thank you." I blushed.

"I'll never forget what you wore when I picked you up for our first date. That blue dress you just bought, with a matching purse, and those heels that you hadn't practiced walking in. Well, you used that as an excuse to latch into my arm all night."

I smiled, placing down my menu."It was a good plan, wasn't it? And I did struggle in those heels, I just didn't want to embarrass myself."

He copied me."I liked holding your hand all night."

"What a sweet sentiment."

"I mean it. And I mean this date. That didn't sound right, but...what I'm trying to say is that I want to make it all up to you."

"You do?"

"Yes! I really didn't expect you to leave. I mean I did, but I didn't want to believe that. I didn't want to believe that I had been so selfish that I couldn't even see how much I had hurt you." 

“That was the hardest decision I ever made. Most days I battle with myself whether I made the right choice. All night I kept making deals with myself. If you came back, I would hear you out, and if it was good enough for me I would stay. But then you didn’t, so I said to myself ‘Give him another hour.’. An hour went by, and I said the same thing to myself. That went on for the whole evening until I found myself angrily packing my things. Even then, I sat by door on top of my suitcase for another hour or so.”

“I thought you just got up and left. I didn’t realise how long you waited for me.” he sighed into his hands.“I’m such a fucking idiot.”

I could tell he was full of regret. Although it sounded sadistic, I was glad that he was upset when reflecting on our past relationship, it meant he realised his mistake. On the other hand, I hated seeing him sad. I took his hands away from his face, hesitantly reaching into my handbag to pull out the engagement ring I kept.

His eyes widened.“You still have that? I looked everywhere for it when you left, guessed you took it to sell.”

“I won’t lie, that was my intention at first. But it meant too much to me. It was like selling a piece of my soul. I kept it hidden, I didn’t want to risk any of the girls seeing it, they would just ask too many questions.”

I kept my eye on the beautiful ring as I spoke, slowly twirling it around to catch it twinkling in the light.

"I had such a hard time picking that out. I knew what you wanted, but I had to get it right for you. I'm so glad you kept it."

"I did try to sell it. I was stood outside of a shop for ten minutes debating with myself. It would have helped a lot for the deposit on the room, but I couldn't do it."

We were silent, both staring at the ring. We used to do that a lot actually. Finn would take my hand and hold it up as we laid in bed together, both giggling as we watched it glisten like it was in present times, before squealing at the thought of us being married to each other. I constantly fiddled with it when he was off on business, a habit which never wore off, even now; whenever I was nervous or worried, I would automatically do the same action, just without the ring.

A waiter awkwardly interrupted us, and I hurriedly put the ring back in my bag, sharing an embarrassed smile with Finn as we ordered. Once he was gone, I quietly sighed, looking out of the window. We were in such a nice part of town, so many ladies in beautiful dresses and men in smart suits strolling around.

"Are you...are you OK for money?" Finn boldly asked.

I was a little shocked by that.

"I don't mean anything by it. I just want to make sure you're OK, I would hate for you to be struggling, if you were."

"Uh, no, no I'm fine actually. It's not as generous as my old wage but it keeps me alive, I can live with the bare necessities."

I could see him itching to say something else, to keep the conversation going. I wasn't sure if we could go back to the serious topic we had before. However, I also wanted to bring it back up, it felt like we needed to talk about us.

"How's the family?" That's all I could come up with.

"They're fine. Everyone is the same. Well, they're not, they're a bit more serious nowadays."

"They weren't in the first place?"

He smiled."I suppose they were. Tension is the right word, tensions have been rising. Tommy's taking on a lot more, Polly knows all these secrets that no one else does, Ada is rebelling against anything Tommy says, Linda is still annoying, Esme and John have been popping kids out left, right and centre. Arthur is still crazy."

"Sounds like business as usual to me."

"They miss you too."

"Do they?"

"Yeah. Almost as much as me."

I cast my eyes down as butterflies rose in my stomach.

"I heard nothing else for the next few weeks after you left. They all told me what an idiot I was, that I was an extremely reckless, stupid and immature boy, and that I had let the best thing in my life get away from me. And they were right. I knew all of that already."

"I...I don't really know what to say right now."

"You don't have to say anything, let's just enjoy this meal, no more of that talk."

The nerves making my stomach flip built at that. What if we had nothing else to talk about? What if it was too weird to dive into our separate lives? I didn't want to sit across my ex-fiance, painfully and politely smiling through forced conversation.

The spark was still there.

When the waiter had returned with our drinks, we were already deep in talk about what had been happening in our personal everyday life. We were non stop, even as we ate through dinner. The waiters had trouble catching our attention each time they checked on us. I was deep in those eyes again, the ones I always dreamed of seeing. We were laughing hysterically, not at all acting how we should have in that establishment (there were a few eye rolls from other patrons). As if time had gone by in a second, the bill was slipped towards Finn, though I still reached into my purse.

"Are you mad? No, put your money away, I'm not taking it." Finn stated as he carelessly threw down some notes, surprisingly taking my hand in his and guiding me out of the restaurant.

I was tense as we walked, and I saw a flash of realisation in Finn's eyes as we made it outside. Both looking down at our interlocked fingers, Finn broke away, clearing his throat.

"Sorry, force of habit."

Hesitating, I smiled up at him, lacing our hands together again."These are new heels I'm breaking in. Need help walking in them."

He chuckled, pulling me closer as we walked down the street. We were silent, feeling like kids in love again. I couldn't deny that my feelings were still strong for Finn, I missed him dearly. At first, part of me had been wary of all this, wondering if he really had good intentions, or just thought he could get a quick shag in from an ex before he left; but the effort he went through, the things we spoke about, trying to heal old wounds, Finn had matured and he was wanting to fix this. I wanted to fix this, my heart was aching for my old life with him. 

“We’re not done yet, are we?” I timidly asked.

“Not unless you want it to be.”

I instantly shook my head.“No, I’d like to stay out for longer.”

“Even though you’re struggling in your heels?”

I smirked.“I know a nice place we can sit down.”

I took him to the local park, it had a huge lake with benches dotted around, luckily it wasn’t busy, there was somehow a hint of privacy here. We sat down close to each other, hands still entwined. 

“You still hungry?” I asked.

“Hm?”

I dug into my purse, producing a bag of sweets I had bought the previous day. I laughed as his eyes lit up, taking one without even asking. I took one too, reminiscing on how we used to do the same thing as kids. It seemed he was thinking about it too.

“Just like the old days.” Finn said.

“We spent way too much money on sweets back then. It’s a wonder we still have our teeth.”

 “Wish I got out of that spending habit. We could be married and in our new house by now.”

“So you never wanted to move on? You didn’t give in to those girls wanting to be with a Peaky Blinder?”

“Never. I couldn’t. I couldn’t even fathom being with anyone else, it was always you (Y/N). Did you date?”

“No, I felt exactly the same. Which is why I was angry at myself for a long time. I was supposed to be upset with you, not still in love.”

His head whipped round to face me.“You still love me?”

My mouth was still open, unsure how to answer. It seemed I didn’t have to as Finn leaned in, placing on hand on my cheek as we kissed. Instinctively I kissed back, placing my hands on him where I could, hearing the bag of sweets fall to the ground and spill its contents. This kiss was needy, the type of kiss you gave your partner when you had missed them, when they had been away for a long time; and although we had our hands on each other, our touch was still gentle.

“Get the ring.” Finn breathed out, our lips still almost touching.

I carelessly got it for him, heart beating extremely fast. He took it from me, pecking me on the lips one last time before standing up. He straightened out his suit, took a deep breath and got down on one knee. I was just as emotional the first time he did it.

“(Y/N), I know I messed up everything in the past, I was careless when I should have been supportive and helped to build our future. I learnt from those mistakes, and I really, really want to go back to how we were. I need you (Y/N), I love you so much. There aren’t enough words to express how much love I have for you. Will you marry me?”

I didn’t need to think about my answer. I blurted out a yes, waiting for him to slide the ring back on my finger before throwing myself onto him. We stumbled back onto the ground, our arms around each other as we laughed and cried. I believed him this time, I truly believed him. He put in the effort to show me his changes, he wanted to fix everything. I wanted things back to the way they were with my man, and we were back to building our future and living the rest of our lives together.

[ourownsideimagines]

Hide My Wings Tonight: Not Another Gloomy Play (Chapter 5)

Surprise! Not dead! I suddenly got the oomph today to finish not one but TWO chapters. Chaoter Six will be posted later, but I figured after two years of waiting I would go ahead and put up Chapter 5 right now.

Read it here on AO3!

Or read it below the cut

Based on the one-shot request by @jinxthequeergirl

---

Aziraphale had not seen his sister filled with such joy in centuries as he did in the years following the beginning of her and Crowley’s arrangement. Not that he knew of said arrangement of course, but he didn’t question what his sister did as long as she was happy. He worried about her, that much was for sure, but after she’d blown off his question the first twenty times he’d stopped asking, and started to enjoy the smile she once again gave so freely.

And (name) enjoyed learning to dance. Her demonic partner was not the best at the task, but they were learning together by watching others, and interacting. No one would question their presence at parties and masquerades. And though (name) would never admit it, she enjoyed spending time with Crowley. There was something about him that drew her in. Perhaps that was just how demons were. Enticing to even the purest of minds. Or maybe just to her.

She didn’t like Crowley, Heaven’s no - how could she, he’s a demon - but his company was a nice change from her doting brother and the snobs up in Heaven.

And of course, with their first arrangement, came another one. One that would change the world forever

You see, arrangements can be a tricky thing. 

The one that (name) had with Crowley was simple enough - Crowley would help (name) learn any new dance she desired, as long as she was willing to help him with small things. She had been a bit reluctant to these terms at first, but found that there was some joy in her disobeying Heaven. It was like a huge fuck you to Gabriel behind his back.

Did his coat need mending? Simple enough - it might not look beautiful, but it was presentable. Did Crowley need a name? Most certainly, (name) could get that. Did he need help getting into somewhere he couldn’t get into otherwise? Not a problem, (name) was good at talking her way into places. Did he need Aziraphale distracted for a while while he did some misdeeds? (Name) could turn a blind eye and take her brother out to lunch. Whatever he asked for, (name) was willing to do it.

Aziraphale had caught onto them rather quickly, much to (name)’s dismay. He’d been upset. He didn’t know about the dancing, but he knew that she’d been sneaking off to see Crowley and to help him with his hellish intentions. It had taken hours for (name) to get him to calm down and listen.

And that was how the second arrangement began. This one was just a bit trickier to get away with. After all, hiding something from Aziraphale was one thing. But hiding something from heaven was another - they had eyes everywhere. Even if it didn’t seem like it, someone was bound to be watching. And if not now, then later.

Aziraphale had been against the idea for so many years, helping  Crowley, or God forbid, getting Crowley’s help. But with the way (name) and Crowley insisted it could do us some good, how was he to resist?

So that was how it had been, for many years. The angels helped the demon, and the demon helped the angels. Heaven hadn’t noticed, and as far as (name) knew Hell hadn’t either. That didn’t mean any less sneaking around - Aziraphale refused to meet with Crowley privately. It always had to be in a crowd, somewhere inconspicuous.

And the Globe Theater during the preview of Shakespeare's new play, Hamlet, was anything but.

Aziraphale had promised a crowd, but (name) could count no more than fifteen heads among the crowd - that included the Bard himself, and the woman carrying snacks, Juliet. As they waited for Crowley, Aziraphale purchased himself a bunch of grapes, miracaling a coin out of nowhere.

“If you were going to do that,” (Name) said as Juliet walked away. “You could have just miracled yourself some grapes.”

“Now where would be the fun in that.” Aziraphale said, smiling down at the fruit before popping one of them into his mouth. He glanced around quickly. “He’s late.”

“Really, I hadn’t noticed.” She teased. “Stop looking so nervous. You’re the one who wanted to meet with him here.”

“Yes, well, I assumed there would be a much bigger crowd.”

“There’s never a crowd for a show like this.” (Name) argued. “People are depressed enough as is, they don’t want to be going to a show that will just make them feel worse.”

“I don’t feel any worse.” Aziaraphale argued.

“Yeah, well, you’re also not like everybody else.” The two were silent for a moment. Then, almost as if she could sense him, (name) turned her head and watched as Crowley sauntered into the arena. He saw them, and took no time at coming to stand beside (name).

“I thought you said we’d be inconspicuous here. Blend in with the crowd.” (Name) wanted to smile at this. Aziraphale, on the other hand, huffed, and ate another grape before he spoke.

“That was the idea.” He grumbled, glancing over at the demon. Remembering his manners, he offered the fruits to him. Crowley, however, ignored them. 

“Ah, hang on.” The demon grimaced. “This isn’t one of Shakespeare’s gloomy ones, is it?” He scrunched up his nose. “No wonder nobody’s here.” (Name) smiled at this.

“Shh, it’s him.” Aziraphale grasped his sister's arm, catching her attention.

“Prithee, gentles, madam.” He said. “Might I request a small favor? Could you, in your role as the audience, give us more to work with?” (name) tried not to frown at this, but she had never been very good at controlling her mouth - both what came out of it, and what shapes it decided to make. Shakespeare didn’t seem much interested in her tho, his eyes focused more on Aziaphale who asked;

“You mean, like when the ghost of his father came on, and I shouted ‘He’s behind you!’?”

“Just so!” Shakespeare said. “That was jolly helpful. Made everyone on the stage feel appreciated. A bit more of that.” (name) wanted to argue. She wanted to say that it made no sense, but she didn’t have the chance. “Good Master Burbage, please! Speak the lines trippingly.” The actor on stage didn’t take the advice too well, and (name) was sure he was ready to explode on the bard at any moment.

“I am wasting my time up here.” He hissed.

“No, you’re very good!” Aziraphale insisted. “Isn’t that right, my dear sister?”

“I-” She bit her tongue. Aziraphale has a bad habit of putting her on the spot like this. That, plus a loose tongue, was never a good pairing. “Yes. I just love all the… talking.” She said.

“And what does your friend think?” The actor asked, clearly looking towards Crowley.

“He’s not our friend. We’ve never met before, we don’t know each other-”

“I think you should get on with the play.” Crowley interrupted Aziraphale, and (name) had to raise a hand to cover her mouth. If Aziraphale heard her laugh, he would surely lecture her later.

“Yes, Burbage. Please.” Shakespeare said. The actor continued.

“To be or not to be - that is the question-”

“To be!” Aziraphale exclaimed. “I mean, not to be! Come on, Hamlet. Buck up!” He turned to (name) with excitement, but it quickly died when he saw the bored look on not only her face, but on Crowley’s as well. Still, the actor gave him a grateful thumbs up and continued on. (name) had to keep from laughing when she noticed Shakespeare mouthing along to the soliloquy, looking very proud of himself.

“He’s very good, isn’t he?” Aziraphale gushed.

“Age does not wither nor custom stale his infinite variety.” Crowley dramatized. (name) watched as Shakespeare reached for his pocket, stating how he ‘liked that’ and wandered away while scratching it down on a scrap of paper.

They stood there a few moments longer, listening to the soliloquy.

“What do you want?” Aziraphale finally spoke, popping another grape into his mouth. (Name) took this opportunity to snag a few, cradling them in her hand as she trained her eyes on the man standing on stage.

“Why might you be insinuating that I might possibly want some?” He was behind them now, coming to stand on Aziraphale’s side.

“You’re up to no good.”

“And the two of you are up to good, I take it? Lots of good deeds?” (Name) spared him a glance. He wasn’t even trying to pretend that he was watching the play. Even behind his glasses she could see him glancing at her, then back to Aziraphale.

“Well there is no rest for the…” Aziraphale paused, causing (name) to snicker. The actor on stage threw her a look, which she chose to ignore. “Good.”

“We’re meant to be heading up to Edinburgh at the end of the week. Aziraphale has a couple of blessings to do and I have a minor miracle to perform.” (Name) popped a couple of the grapes into her mouth - they were the perfect mixture of sweet and sour, causing her to hum with joy.

“Oh? Is that right?” Crowley looked at her again and (Name) fought to keep a smile off her face. “Well, I’m meant to be heading to Edinburgh end of the week as well - tempting a clan leader to steal some caddle.”

“Doesn’t sound like hard work.” Aziraphale piped in, too focused on the play and his food to realize what was coming next.

“Well, that’s why I thought…” this caught Aziraphale’s attention, and he all but snapped his head in Crowley’s direction. “Well, it’s be a bit of a waste.” Crowley was starting to smile again. He knew exactly what he was doing. “All of us going all the way to Scotland.”

“You cannot possibly be insinuating,” Azirapahe was beginning to raise his voice, and (Name) hushed him before the actor could throw another tantrum. “What I infer you are implying.” He said in a hushed tone.

“It’s not like we haven’t done it before.” Crowley was turned to watch the play now, but (name) never looked away from him. “The arrangement-“

“Don’t say that.” Aziraphale demanded.

“Our respective head offices don’t actually care how things get done, they just want to know they can cross it off the list.

“Yes, but if hell found out they wouldn’t just be mad,” Aziraphale reminded him. “They would destroy you.” The joy of seeing the demon had finally worn off as (name) let Aziraphale’s words sink in.

They would destroy you.

“Nobody ever needs to know.” Crowley said, lifting a hand to show them a rusted coin. “I’ll toss you for Edinburgh.”

There was a pregnant pause. (Name) could feel the words forming on the tip of her tongue. We shouldn’t do this, she wanted to say. It’s way too dangerous. But she couldn’t. Because a life without seeing Crowley every now and again would be… well, she’s not sure it would be worth living.

“Fine,” Aziraphale sighed. “Heads.” Crowley smiled. Then, he held the coin out to her.

“Would you do us the honor?” He asked. As (name) took the coin, her fingers brushed gently against his own, and despite how well dressed he was and how warm it was, his fingers were cold. Aziraphale’s eyes were trained on the coin so he didn’t see when Crowley gave her a sly wink.

The other arrangement.

(Name) held onto a sigh as she flipped the coin, fingers snapping gently as she did. When the coin landed, she knew it would be tails, but she played her part and gave a small groan of annoyance.

“Well, brother of mine, it looks like we will be the ones going to Scotland.” She displayed the coin. “Guess I’m just a bit unlucky.” She lied.

Before either of them could speak, they heard the bard moaning from the other side of the pit.

“It’s been like this every performance Juliet, a complete dud. It would take a miracle to get anyone to come and see Hamlet.” (Name) didn’t miss the look Aziraphale gave Crowley. The same face he gave her when he wanted something sweet, or was begging her to help him get a new book.

Crowley scrunched up his nose, but let out a defeated sigh.

“Fine, I’ll do that one.” He said. “My treat.”

“Oh, really?” (Name) shuffled a bit, annoyed words threatening to spill from her lips. But Crowley spoke up quickly.

“I still prefer the funny ones.” He gave (name) one last glance before making his way toward the exit of the theater, probably on his way to start on his demonic miracle. It was at that moment that (name) realized she was still holding Crowley’s coin.

“Oh, bugger.” She muttered. “Could you hold on a moment, brother. I will return in just a moment.”

“Is everything alright?”

“Quite. Just need a breather, is all.” He didn’t seem to like that answer, but didn’t argue as (name) tore away from him and walked towards the theater exit. As she popped out onto the empty streets, she could feel eyes on her. To her left, Crowley was leaning up against a wall, waiting for her.

“Sneaky bastard.” She said, “You forgot something.” She said, holding out the coin to him. He stared at it for a moment, but didn’t hold out a hand to take it. So she pulled back, slipping the coin into a pocket she had secretly sewn into her dress. “Is everything okay, Crowley?”

“How are you?” (name) was taken aback by the question, but Crowley seemed genuine in his curiosity.

“I am… fine.”

“You seem happy.” He said. “Even if you weren’t enjoying the show, you just seem… happier.”

“Well,” (name) started. “I am. Times are changing. I haven’t had to visit upstairs in quite a while. And Aziaraphale is happy. So I am happy.”

“Good. That’s… good.” There was silence between them. “I still owe you from last time, too.” He said. (name) hummed in agreement - she hadn’t gotten her promised dance lesson for the last temptation she had assisted him with.

“I guess this next one will just have to be a bit longer, then, no?”

“It would seem.” Crowley was smiling. “Have fun in Edinburgh, Angel.”

“Have fun with Hamlet, Demon.” She shot back, trying not to laugh as he grimaced. Crowley pushed off the wall and began to saunter off, leaving (name) to return to her brother. When she reached into her pocket, she couldn’t help but laugh to herself.

The coin was gone.

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #368

“whatever doesn’t kill you, is gonna leave a scar”

Have you ever bought a YouTuber’s merch? My favorite shirt is the Day of the Dead design by Cloak, which is Markiplier's and jacksepticeye's clothing brand. Mom's friend/former co-worker also got me a Ninja Sex Party shirt because she knew I liked them. There are SO MANY YouTubers I wanna support by buying shirts. Do you think oatmeal tastes better when made with water or milk? Milk, 110%. Have you ever left a note in a library book? No. What time of day do you prefer to wash your hair? Morning. Has anyone ever spread lies about you? Yes. Have you ever taken a photograph with a celebrity? If so, did it turn out the way you wanted, or do you wish you could retake it? No. If you could move out of your home country permanently, would you? If so, where would you go? If it didn't mean being so very far from my family, I would love to move to Canada. Is there a celebrity that everyone else seems to love, but you find totally overrated? Why is it that you don’t like them? I legit don't know who's considered currently popular, and I especially don't know who they are as people. If you could volunteer for any charity, which one would you choose? Do you think it’s more important to help humans, or are animal and environmental charities equally important? Something relating to animals, and I think they're both equally important. Do you prefer holidays where you relax, or actually do things? I like a mix. Something chill, but you still do some stuff as a family. Do you think that after we die our spirit is still alive? Yes. Has anybody ever told you that you could be a model? Someone has mistaken me for a model in a picture I once took. It was one of the most flattering things I've ever heard, haha. Do you use different kinds of moisturizer for different body parts? ie. hand lotion for your hands, face cream for your face. Or do you just use one moisturizer for all body parts? Yes. Have you ever felt like you were someone’s rebound? No. Has anybody ever broken up with you over something really pathetic? What was it? Have you ever been dumped in a disrespectful way? (eg. through text, through a friend..) I have 100% been dumped in a very cowardly and disrespectful way; after dating Jason for nearly four years and being very serious, he broke up with me very abruptly over Facebook Messenger. His reason was valid, but at the same time, he NEVER talked to me about it. Apparently my depression was dragging him down. If he'd fucking communicated it, I would have explored new treatment options so goddamn fast. But no, he decided to snap his fingers and disappear. That's exactly WHY it was so traumatic, I think: it was so unexpected and sudden. Did you have a lot of role models as a kid? Animal enthusiasts like Steve Irwin and Jeff Corwin for sure. Do you feel like anyone looks up to you? Why or why not? God no. I'm just... not someone to aspire to be like. What was the last thing you found offensive? I'm not sure. Who is the nicest person you know? My mom. Do you feel safe in your country? I feel safe in NC, rather. Like I don't expect an atom bomb or terrorist attack or something in this obscure area. In the U.S.A. itself, sometimes I do, sometimes I don't. America is definitely not loved by every other country. Do you feel safe where you live? Not in this city, no. Have you been falsely diagnosed with something by a bad doctor? Yup. Did y'all know I apparently have ADHD? I know, shocking. Have you ever had a doctor refuse to treat you? No. Name the strangest game you’ve ever played (video game or real game): The first Silent Hill, probably. It took a lot of reading to get it. Do you know anyone who has been struck by lightning before? No. Which cartoon character would you want to keep as a pet? Does Stitch count? Or a Pokemon. Do you like marshmallows? Yes. What is your favorite flavor of candy cane? I really like the Jolly Rancher candy canes, I think they are? Have you ever fostered an animal? No. Do you still take hot showers when it’s hot out? Not as hot, but not cold except on very extreme occasions. When writing $ sign, do you draw one line through the S or two? Two. What animal have you always wanted as a pet but couldn’t have? I'm thankful that my parents were pretty open-minded to what pets I really wanted, but one I was never allowed to have was a ferret because of how messy and smelly they are. List three people you’ve had crushes on: Jason, Sara, and Sebastian were probably my biggest crushes. Have you ever thrown up from cramps? No, but god have I felt close. List three people you had a hard time forgiving. Jason, Colleen, and my dad. Who is the most spiritual person you know? Probably my sister's mother-in-law. Would you ever start a vlog? God no, I'd bore people to tears. Are your dreams coming true yet? I mean, I guess in some ways with my mental health. In my deepest depression, what I have now was a dream, even though current me is very discontent with it. Most of my dreams, though? No. Do you struggle with depression? I've been diagnosed with severe depression since 7th grade. Are you haunted by your past? A few things won't leave me alone. What medical conditions do you have? Just a lot. There are even more that are up for debate. I've talked about my diagnosed conditions enough. Do you use a Magic Bullet? No. What does your apron look like? I don’t have one. What are your favorite spicy foods? Hot Cheetos, Takis, hot wings, jalapeno pizza... Man, I love spicy food. Which do you like better: being an adult or being a kid? Being a kid. Were you excited to be a teenager on your thirteenth birthday? I had very mixed feelings. Did you feel insecure in high school? Shit, I still do. Would you ever be friends with someone who was suicidal? What the FUCK is this question? No fucking shit I would be. Someone being suicidal in no way affects who they are as a person. Who was the biggest bully in high school? I don't think there really was one. What was your favorite class in high school? Art. Would you rather have a daughter or a son? If I wanted kids, a daughter. Have you ever written to an advice columnist? No. Have you ever had a doctor not believe what you told him? Maybe? I did however have an employee at the ER the first time I went try to pry out of me that my self-mutilation was for attention, and it wasn't until I insisted about a dozen times that it wasn't that he believed me. It's odd looking back that I got REALLY attached to him during that stay, knowing now that it was absolutely horrible and extremely unhelpful for him to do that. If you’re female, would you feel uncomfortable having a male gynecologist? I would absolutely refuse to have a male one. Do you like Lisa Frank? Yeah, like can you talk about aesthetic. What gives you nightmares? Boy, I wish I could tell you, given how much I have them. Were you ever hospitalized as a child? No. Did you get senior pictures taken? No. What color is your bicycle? I don’t have one. Did you ever have to take home a fake baby in health class? No, thank fuck. Would you rather wear ivory or white on your wedding day? What color will your bridesmaids wear? I'd rather wear black. I think red will be the bridesmaids' color. Would you rather have a swimming pool or trampoline? I want a swimming pool so damn badly so I could exercise my legs without worrying about sweating, and I can stop and rest whenever I want, unlike going walking or something. I don't think my knees could handle a trampoline. Do you think babies are cute? Some, sure. But a lot, not really. Do you dream about the future a lot? Yeah. Do you think about your past a lot? Way too frequently. How good are you at living in the moment? I'm trying to get better at it. Have you ever questioned God’s existence? Yeah. Vanilla frosting or chocolate? Chocolate. What’s your favorite foreign cuisine? I've actually been exploring Italian pasta lately. I'm not a big fan of foreign food that I've tried, though. Have you ever moved to another state? No. Did you do anything productive today? No. .-. Can you say the alphabet backwards? No, actually. Do you like flowers? Of course; does anyone not? Have you ever thought you were gonna die? I didn't care if I did or didn't. What kind of mood are you in today? I was honestly really depressed through most of it. Just health stuff was really getting to me. I just woke up from what was honestly like a four-hour nap and I feel all right, I guess. What are you craving right now? I REALLY want Domino's jalapeno pizza. Is there anyone you would seriously punch right now if you had the chance? No. What is worse, physical or emotional pain? Definitely emotional. Have you ever walked in on somebody doing something… questionable? When Dad still lived with us, I think he might have been watching... you know... on TV when I came into my parents' room for something. Idk for sure though. I didn't ask, and I don't want to know. If you were to make videos on YouTube, what would they be of? Oh god, idk. I don't want to make any. What I'd have most fun with would be reptile education, but I 1.) have literally one snake, 2.) am not extremely educated on a good number of them and don't want to be misleading, and 3.) I would run outta content fast. So, leave it to Snake Discovery, haha. Posting pictures of yourself in a bathing suit on the internet - ok or not? Yes, it's okay????? If you're talking about me personally though, you won't see me dead in a bathing suit picture. Do you typically laugh when somebody falls down? No, I gasp and see if they're okay. What is the most disturbing movie you’ve ever watched? Paranormal Entity. The ending is... a lot. Your opinion of Katy Perry, please? I like a couple of her songs. If you could say anything to your Mom right now… what would it be? "Thank you for absolutely everything."

[stillchaoticlogic]

Dreaming

Leon x Reader

Summary: You’ve fallen into a world that you’ve only ever dreamed of. You may have also met the man of your dreams...

Wait... Are you dreaming?

A Bad Day

Today was a bad day. 

You woke up late and ended up rushing around to get ready. Your shower was cold. When you tried to put the lid on your coffee it was too full and it ended up popping out of the spout and erupting like a volcano all over the counter and yourself. You forgot your breakfast, but it’s too late to turn back. You are late to work and you got yelled at by your boss. You were blamed for a mistake you didn’t even make. What makes today even worse is you know there is no one waiting at home for you. You’ve been pretty lonely lately and your singledom has made cold nights and lonely meals the norm. You don’t hate your life, but having someone to come home to would make days like today more bearable. When it’s finally time for you to go home you rush from the office. Once in your car you head off down the road and not a mile or two down the road… it happened… you ran out of gas. 

Sitting behind the wheel of your car you just gaze out the window and heave the biggest sigh of your life. 

“Of course…” you groan as you forcefully open the door and step out. You slam the door and lock it knowing that the nearest gas station isn’t too far, but still. You didn’t have time for this before and you certainly don’t have for this now. With a groan, you head off down the road hoping against hope you can make it home soon. 

You are too busy typing in the location of the nearest gas station to notice the puddle on the ground and the sudden sensation of falling takes you by complete surprise. Your yelp of surprise turns into a screech of fear as you are plummeting through the sky and towards the earth. At this point not only are you scared shitless but you are confused as hell. The confusion is quickly overridden by sheer panic as you realize you’re going to die. 

A moment later you land haphazardly on the back of some creature and coast to the ground all while holding on for dear life. Your eyes are wide in shock and you just gaze at the large orange lizard… no… not lizard… dragon in front of you. Then you scream.

The dragon thing backs up and makes gestures to try to calm you down all while looking around. You turn around in your panic and begin to run only to hit a hard chest. You grasp onto the man in your terror and turn to face the creature behind you.

“It’s a dragon!!”

“Oh… Charizard isn’t a dragon… He’s a fire type!” You gaze up at him in bewilderment.

“Char-izard?” you ask in bewilderment, “Like... the pokemon?”

He furrows his brow, “Of course, like the pokemon…Are you okay?”

“I think I hit my head… I need to sit down,” the male panics as you drop to the ground and begin to breathe rapidly.  

“Ok… just take it easy there…”

“I don’t know where I am…”

“Look it’s going to be okay… We’re going to figure this out together.”

“I want to go home…” you say panic and tears filling your eyes.

You don’t have to worry about your panic attack for too long, because you promptly pass out. 

The world around you is blurry as you blink yourself back into existence. It takes a moment but your vision finally clears. Gazing around you notice a sterile white room and that you are lying on the most uncomfortable bed you’ve laid on. 

“Oh good! You’re awake!” Your head whips around and you notice the man with long purple hair? Also, why is everything technicolored? It’s brighter… Why are you technicolored? Oh dear…

“Are you sure?” you ask as you turn your attention outwards. 

“Yes?” he questions with a laugh. He’s a jolly fellow, isn’t he?

“My head is pounding…”

“Well, you did take quite a fall. I don’t know where you were falling from though…” he says as he scratches his head in confusion, “No matter! The doctor said you don’t have a concussion. She should be in here to check on you soon!”

Almost as if his words summoned her, the doctor walks into the room briskly and begins to exam you. She asks many questions, none of which you know how to answer, and those that you do know how to answer, you simply lie. You know the truth would most likely end with you in the psych ward. 

“You should go home and rest! Nothing really seems to be wrong with you, perhaps a mild form of amnesia, but your memories should come back with time. Mostly like stress moreso than injury. 

You just nod dumbly at her hoping that you can leave soon, even if you don’t have anywhere to go. 

Once discharged from the hospital you take your things and notice for the first time Pokemon nestled in the backpack that isn’t yours but is apparently yours. Your surprised when you find a Pokedex along with many other items one would have on their journey. 

“You seem to be on a journey! Do you have a place to stay tonight?”

“Oh… I’m sure I can afford a room somewhere…” you murmur as look at the amount in ‘your’ account.

“Is there anyone you can stay with?”

“I don’t know anyone here…”

“I don’t mean to be presumptions, but perhaps you should stay with me tonight? I would feel better knowing that you have someone with you.”

You gaze up at the man before you, “You… don’t even...know me....”

He shrugs, “That doesn’t mean that I can’t help you.”

What crazy world have you landed in?

“Umm… well…”

“Oh! I guess that sounds odd coming from someone you don’t know, do you? I’m Leon, Galar’s Unbeatable Champion!”

“You’re the champion?”

“Yes!”

“Oh… Well…” you ponder your options before you pull out your phone and begin to look up Champion Leon. Sure enough, a picture of the man before you floods your screen. 

“I guess it wouldn’t hurt…”

It’s not like you have anywhere else to stay and having someone with connections around could be good. 

“Great! We will head to mine then! Do we need to stop for anything on the way?”

“Umm…” you dig around your bag to find a change of clothes and some basics, “no I should have everything I need for tonight. I only have one outfit though I should probably get more clothes tomorrow…”

“We will go shopping tomorrow!”

“Oh no! You don’t have to!”

“Of course I do! Plus I want to!”

“Oh… Umm… okay…?”

You’re surprised when you get to Leon’s place. It’s just outside of the city of Hammerlocke with a spacious yard and cottage-like feel. You weren’t expecting something so homey. 

“Here we are! Home sweet home!”

“It’s beautiful…” you murmur as you gaze around the exterior. 

“It’s a little big for just me, but I really liked the land when I bought it. Plenty of room for my larger pokemon to roam around.”

“Makes sense,” you murmur as you follow him into the spacious home. 

The inside feels very staged, more like an interior decorator designed the place. 

“It’s beautiful,” you say as you look around. 

“It’s stiff,” He says with a laugh, “I didn’t have the time to decorate so I paid someone to do it… It’s not really my style but it’ll do for now.”

“What is your style?”

“Something warmer.”

You give him a soft smile, “I can see that…” 

He smiles back happily, “Well make yourself at home! The guest room is upstairs to the left and you’re welcome to anything in the kitchen!”

“Do you mind if I check on my pokemon? I don’t…”

“Don’t?”

“I don’t remember them…”

He gets quiet for a moment, almost as if understanding the gravity of the situation. 

“I’ll go with you,” he says with finality leading you out into the yard.

You heave a sigh as you release your first Pokemon, it’s a fire rabbit! A David Beckam bunny if you will. He rushes up to you and wraps you in a hug his face nuzzling against yours. You laugh as you hug him back.

“It’s okay buddy… I’m okay,” he pulls away and gazes up at you with large worried eyes and stays by your side. 

The next out is a large gothic-looking bird. Well, Edgar Allen Poe would have a field day with this raven rapping at his chamber door. The large bird lands before and greets you by leaning its head towards your own. You pet his feathers and he coos happily at you. 

“I know…” you say softly, “but everything’s okay now…” 

You don’t know how you know how they are feeling, but instinctively you do. 

Next out is a cotton candy unicorn that gallops up to you and rests her head on your shoulder. You stroke her neck and she quietly whinnies at you. 

Your eyes widen as a giant white moth pops out of the next Pokeball. She alights on your shoulder and begins to use her antenna to make sure you are okay. You giggle at the contact and she stops but remains balanced on your shoulder. 

“I’m fine! I promise.”

Next is a large lizard-like creature that seems to want to be the next Jimmy Hendrix lumbers towards you and wraps himself around you making the moth alight into the air in annoyance. He ends up resting his head on your shoulder happily. 

The final pokemon you release is a Drakloak. You blink at the ghostly airplane like pokemon in confusion, but he doesn’t seem to care. He rushes over to you happily and nuzzles his snout against your hand. 

“That’s a good team! And they seem to love you!” 

You glance over at Leon and nod happily. You spend a little time playing with them and feeding them. 

“How about we grab something to eat? They can hang out in the yard with my team. I’m sure everyone will get along just fine!”

You bid them good night and you aren’t really surprised when your Cinderace refuses to leave your side. 

“He can come in, I’m sure he’s worried about you.”

“Thank you…” you murmur as the bunny like Pokémon follows you into the house. 

You take your things upstairs and marvel at how large the house is. The guest room is pretty generic, with a bed, side table, and dresser. The colors are all neutrals and while it isn’t very cozy it’s a guest room what do you expect? You are pleased to discover an en suite bathroom though.

When you return downstairs Leon is cooking some pasta and greets you when you arrive. 

“Hope you like Pasta!”

You just nod happily and watch while he heats the sauce and boils the noodles. You giggle as he pulls out a pair of potholders that look like a Charizard head. He sends you a dazzling smile before he plates the food and sets it in front of you. 

You happily dig into the dish and compliment him, thanking him for taking care of you.

“So do you remember where you are from?”

You feel a full stop in your head as you try to remember any details about where you are from, or at least any details about where you could be from. You blink for a moment as you stare off into space. 

“Umm… it’s fuzzy… but Unova sounds… familiar…”

“Ahh! That must be where you are from!”

It’s not. He doesn’t need to know that though.

“Yes… it must be.”

“I bet Scorbunny was your first pokemon, he seems really attached to you.”

Images of a small white bunny pop into your mind. You recall the small pokemon jumping up to give you a fist bump or running around your feet as you walked down a path. A path you’ve never walked down, but it feels so familiar. You remember he would ride on your shoulder and play with your hair, mussing it whenever he felt mischevious. 

“He was… his name is Dash.”

The bunny-like pokemon perks up at his name as he thrills happily at you. 

“Next came Titan the Rookidee…” you murmur as images of a tiny bird flitted across your mind. He would ride on your head and anytime that Dash got jealous he would peck at the stubborn bunny. You remember having to comfort him when he became too big to ride your shoulders anymore. That’s odd… how do you remember that?

“A Toxel… Nirve… he’s next…he evolved into a low key Toxtricity…” He’s such a big baby, even to this day his favorite place is curled next to you when you are relaxing at night.

“Flossy came next… she was a Ponyta when we met. She loved to run around the camps, challenging everyone to a race. Dash always liked racing with her.” 

“You’re remembering…”

“It’s faint… but its there…”

You are a little scared since there is no way these are your memories, and yet they are so familiar. Like wrapping yourself up in a blanket on a cold night. You know these belong to you…

“Who was next?”

“Gyspy… She was just a Snom when I found her. She loved to sleep and would always sneak away for a nap when we would be training.”

“Your Drakloak is last?”

“He was a Dreepy. He got lost in the Wild Area, he wasn’t supposed to be there but there was a huge storm the night before. I think he got blown into the area I was in. He was so small and so scared… He happily joined me and ended up hanging onto Nirve a lot… His name is Dart…”

Leon chuckled, “Were you trying to collect the gym badges?”

“I think so…” you mutter in confusion.

“Do you have any badges?”

“I’ll have to check my bag, I haven’t really looked…”

“Things seem to be triggering your memories, we can take a look later if you want. You should probably rest though, it’s been a long day for you.”

“A very long day…” 

“You’re right… I think I’m going to head up to bed.” 

“Good night!”

“Good night!”

You head up to bed and Dash follows along behind you. When finally are settled in Dash is curled up at your side on top of the sheets. You can feel his heat radiating off of his body as he sprawls himself out after drifting off to sleep. Despite how tired you are your mind is racing. How can it not be? You have memories that aren’t yours and that scares you. You finally calm your racing mind down enough to convince yourself to fall asleep. 

You wake up the next morning to the smell of breakfast. When you head downstairs Leon is setting a plate of eggs on the table and looks up when you come down. 

“How do you take your coffee?”

“Oh? Umm… cream.”

“How are you feeling this morning?” he asks as he walks over to you with a cup. 

You take it with a smile and quietly thank him. 

“I’ve got some work to do this morning, but I figured we could go out to lunch then get you some clothes?”

“You don’t have to worry about me… You’ve done more than enough to help me!”

“Well, I don’t like the thought of you out on your own while you’re trying to remember everything. Please stay with me until you get your memories back.”

“I don’t want to burden you…”

“Burden me? I live in a huge house all by myself having some company that isn’t trying to use me or battle me will be nice.”

You frown at his words, “Use you?”

“You would be surprised at the agendas everyone is always pushing… Last night was nice. Actually, I had more fun spending time with you and our pokemon than I have in a long time.”’

“You’re just saying that so I won’t leave yet…”

“No! Really, it was nice! I would love it if you would stay a little bit longer.”

“Fine… but I leave when I get things figured out okay?”

“Okay,” doesn’t fight you, but you can see a little twinkle in his eye.

“You look like you’re up to something…” you say suspiciously. 

“I don’t know what you’re talking about! I just want a lovely lady to come home to every once in a while… I don’t know what’s so suspicious about that.”

“Oh… Like you would have a problem finding a girlfriend.”

“It’s… not as easy as you would think…It gets lonely around here sometimes,” he scratches his head nervously. 

You give a soft smile, “It must be hard to be so famous.”

He shrugs, “It comes with the territory… Oh! I have to go! I’ll come back and pick you up around noon!”

You wave goodbye as he rushes out of the door. You feel yourself relax as you lean against the doorway and sip your coffee. 

‘Someone to come home to huh?’ you can’t help but think that you wouldn’t mind the exact same thing.

Notes: Welcome to my mini-series with Leon! I haven’t decided precisely how long this is going to be... I’ll let you know... Please as always let me know your thoughts! I love reading what you guys have to say about my work! Expect the next chapter of Stumbling soon! Can you believe we’re already on chapter 8! 

[thewatermelloncat]

Blood Poison   (Part 1)

Part 2

Summary: Getting injured is never a welcome prospect, especially not on the Isle of the Lost where there is a high chance of infection. Uma will go to great lengths to save her first mate and discovers a use for her magic along the way.

Warning: Contains details of an injury, really mild and not graphic, but still be warned if that’s not your thing. Also has a description of a panic attack, though I tried to make it a read between the lines kind of thing.

 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

There were seven people on the ship, including herself. Uma had heard that seven is the perfect number but it didn’t feel that way when her first mate wasn’t by her side. He was normally the first one on the ship after her, and she’d been expecting him to board the ship before the rest of the crew slowly began to trickle in, that was more than ten minutes ago. Harry may not know how to tell the time, but he was never late.

And so, she sat on a barrel watching as her crew stepped onto the deck. Some of them beginning their chores immediately, most of them just milling about climbing the masts and balancing on the edge of the railings. There wasn’t much to do until the markets opened and they could go steal from the stalls.

Uma’s attention was drawn to Gil as he stopped abruptly at the edge of the gangplank, his eyes searching for the familiar red coat and not finding it. His eyes found Uma’s and they shared in a worried look before Gil moved off to help a group of crew mates move some crates.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Time seemed to stretch on for an eternity but Uma highly doubted that was the case. She was sure it seemed longer because she had no idea what time it was, so every ten seconds felt like a minute. Normally she would steal Harry’s pocket watch to check the time and ease her mind, but he wasn’t there.

The morning fog had almost faded when she spots a red coat out the corner of her eye. Not fully seeing the silhouette her heart leaps and she turns toward it quickly, thinking it would be Harry. Her heart sinks in disappointment as the image clears to reveal Harriet making her way along the wharf to the ship. Though the disappointment doesn’t last long, seeing a troubled look on the older pirate’s face as she stops before the gangplank, not daring to board the ship.

Without hesitation Uma jumps off of the barrel and begins making her way to the edge of the ship. As she passes Gil, she gives him a look and taps him on the arm, letting him know that he’s in charge until she gets back. The worried look on her face telling him that it might not be for a while. He nods in understanding and she quickens her pace to met Harriet on the wharf.

“What is it?” she wastes no time in asking.

Harriet looks hesitant to speak but she manages to get out the word “infection” before she immediately sets off walking back to the Jolly Rodger.

Uma falls into a quick pace beside her but says nothing, waiting for the older girl to clarify more. With them both moving quickly through the wharf Harriet seems more comfortable to talk, “he was really quiet last night but I just thought he was in his head about something” she continues explaining. “It wasn’t until this morning when he didn’t get up that I thought I’d check in on him, and found him sweating with fever.”

“His arm?” Uma states more than asks really. Her brain clicking it into place, remembering how Harriet had mentioned an infection and how Harry had been injured by a sword in a fight the last week.

Harriet nods as she runs her hand through her hair, brushing it out of her face. Her pace seeming to quicken again as the ship comes into sight. “I want to say he’s an idiot and he hasn’t cleaned it so it’s his fault. But he’s not.”

“Just be bad luck” Uma speaks quietly as they board the Jolly Rodger and Harriet leads the way below deck. There is always about a 75% chance an injury will become infected on the Isle, so many factors feeding into it based on the poor hygiene and living conditions. Uma has heard of people dying from scratching themselves on a rusty nail sticking out of the wharf.

“He’s in pretty bad shape” Harriet warns her sparing her a quick glance, the first time she’s looked at her since they met on the wharf. “He’s not coherent.”

Uma doesn’t have time for any questions before they step into Harry’s room.

“Ettie!” CJ exclaims standing up from the floor and rushing to wrap her arms around her sister’s waist. “He won’t wake up. His fever got too high and his nose started bleeding after you left, but I-I think I fixed it.” The young girl is frantic as she speaks but relaxes slightly as her older sister wraps her arms around her.

Uma quickly brushes past them as they stand in the doorway, ignoring the bloody cloth on the floor as she comes to stand in front of Harry’s bed. Her breath catches in her throat when she looks down at him. He looks horrible: face pale as the sheets beneath him aside from the pinkish splotches covering his cheeks, sweat glistening in his hairline, and shivers shaking him making his breathing shudder. She reaches her hand down to his forehead and immediately retracts it with a small gasp like it burnt her, before immediately putting it back. Beginning to chew at her lip she stands frozen, to overwhelmed to do anything more than place her cool hands on his burning skin. This is worse than she had imagined.

At Harriet stepping beside her holding a wet cloth Uma retracts her hand again, letting her place it on his forehead. Following her lead, she turns around to the bucket on the floor and pulls out another cloth, slightly ringing it out before folding it and placing it behind Harry’s neck.

“When was the last time he cleaned it? Do you know?” Uma’s voice sounds more stable than she feels.

“Yesterday, both morning and night” Harriet tells her. “Like I said he’s not stupid.”

“Have you seen it?”

Harriet shakes her head, “not until this morning when I cleaned it.”

“Can I look at it?” Uma asks.

Harriet gestures in a nod to his arm, giving her the go ahead.

Uma lowers herself onto the edge of the bed and gently positions his forearm over her lap before carefully untying the knot in the bandage. Even before she finishes unwrapping the bandage, she can sense something is very wrong. When the last of the fabric falls away, her worst suspicions are confirmed seeing the discoloured wound giving way red lines weaving their way along his arm.

From behind her she hears Harriet’s breath catch and CJ choke on a sob before she buries her face into her sister’s chest. A million thoughts rush through her mind all at once. 12 hours. Medicine – sure to cure it, but no one can afford it even if they can find it. Amputation – most common solution, but leaves the risk of further infection, and why the fuck would she do that?

12 hours to save him.

“That wasn’t there before” Harriet’s voice is hollow.

“I can’t think” Uma says quietly, barely loud enough for the other girls to hear her. Going into stressful situations she normally feels like a strong presence ready to take charge, but now in wake of her first mate walking towards deaths door she feels small and insignificant, like the world just magnified around her.

“I’m normally really great in situations like this. I work really well under pressure” she isn’t lying as she speaks like she’s repeating a mantra to herself, her voice raising as panic takes over her. In her manic state she carefully lowers Harry’s arm onto the bed and stands up, beginning to pace. Her hand starts to fidget in the air as if it could find her an idea to latch onto. Her chest begins to expand rapidly as she repeats “I can’t think, I can’t think, I can’t think…”

Her world fuzzes for a few seconds, her skin going hot and her erratic breathing the only sound in her ears until Harriet’s voice breaks through it.

“Steady, love” she speaks soothingly despite the dire situation. “Deep breaths. You’re no help to him if you pass out.”

Gradually Uma comes to, finding herself seated in a chair Harriet kneeling in front of her holding Uma’s hand to her chest, encouraging her to match their breaths.

“That’s it, deep breaths” Harriet commends giving her hand a light squeeze.

Continuing to breathe deeply, Uma takes her hand out of Harriet’s hold and props her head up over her knees. “Come on, think” she begs herself before sitting up and wiping away the tears that had fallen from her eyes.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

The room is silent, everyone avoiding everyone’s eyes, afraid that if they look at each other their emotions will spill over. For awhile Uma’s mind is consumed by the thought of losing her first mate, continuing to short-circuit at not being able to think of anything to help him, making her focus on the fact that she can’t think of anything, which in turn makes her think of nothing else.

With her brain chasing itself in circles, it’s awhile before Uma registers a heat against her chest. She lets out a small gasp as her hand moves up to clutch at her mother’s necklace which is pulsing its glow in time with her heart beat.

CJ giggles joyfully seeing the glowing of the necklace, more mesmerised by its light than in knowing what it means.

Harriet’s face falls into a deep confusion, “I thought magic didn’t work under the barrier.”

“It shouldn’t” Uma’s voice sounds faraway to her own ears. As she holds onto the necklace her thoughts are becoming clearer, like a separate part of her brain is awakening. Suddenly she springs from her chair, knowing at last what to do. “I need ginger and ginseng! Witch hazel and thyme, I can find in my mother’s shop!”

“But magic?” Harriet stands from the floor as Uma rises but it’s clear that she can’t function properly until she knows how the necklace is drawing power from under the barrier.

“I don’t have time to explain” Uma dismisses as she makes for the door. She had expected the two sisters to follow her and turns around when she notices they aren’t. Both stand frozen on the spot, staring at her wide-eyed for an explanation.

“You remember when Carlos momentarily broke the barrier?” Uma begins, her tone moderately frustrated that she had to go over this now.

Both girls nod slowly.

“A bit of outside magic was able to enter the Isle and it remains here, although it’s difficult to harness.” It was enough information to get them both moving though they undoubtably have more questions.

“So, your necklace attracts it?” Harriet asks following through the hallways behind her.

“It channels it” Uma corrects. “The magic is already in me and the necklace helps bring it out so I can control it.”

“Then why don’t you use it all the time” CJ chimes in from where she follows behind them.

“Like I said, it’s difficult to attract” Uma says, slowing down as the door to the deck comes into view. “It works in my subconscious; I can’t explain it any more than that.”

“I’m not even going to question that” Harriet shakes her head as she stops next to Uma by the door. From all her father’s ramblings about pixie dust, she is sure magic is never a thing she will be able to understand. “What do you want us to do?”

“Find ginger and ginseng, make it into a tea or something. Anything that he can drink” Uma instructs as she steps through the door. “I’ll be back soon.”

[aethelflaedladyofmercia]

The Whole Truth - 2

(Full story available on AO3! If you want to be tagged as new chapters are posted, leave a comment “tag me” on this post!)

(Please note: Tumblr continues to make my Italics disappear. It’s very frustrating, so I apologize if the formatting makes anything confusing.)

Monday

1999

--

Aziraphale stared at the book on his desk. “What kind of curse?”

“Don’t know, not my department.” Gabriel smiled, excited, just a little distracted. It tugged at something in Aziraphale, made him want to prove he was worth the Archangel’s attention, too. “Michael’s soldiers seized it in a raid. Very dramatic stuff. Pity you weren’t able to make it.”

“Ah, yes, well…”

“Could have used another sword.” A nudge of the elbow, so hard Aziraphale staggered a little. “Those demons fought back hard.”

“Yes, terribly sorry. As I’d said there was this urgent business to attend to. Demonic possession. Entire family cursed. The house itself had become sentient. And. Carnivorous. I really had to deal with it all immediately.”

“Sounds frightening.”

“Oh, it was. Very frightening. And gory. And certainly not rated for general audiences.”

“What?”

“Nothing!” Aziraphale tugged on his waistcoat. The last thing he needed was for Gabriel to learn about movie night. Well. It was mid-ranked on the very long list of things Gabriel shouldn’t know. He hated lying to the Archangel, but no – things were better this way. “Regardless. You say these – these demons had this book in their possession?”

“Oh, yes. Not sure what they were planning to do with it, but it’s cursed. Very cursed.”

“Fascinating.” Aziraphale picked up a pen and used it to lift the cover, peering at the first page. He could just make out the writing. “It’s printed, not handwritten. Not Roman or Cyrillic alphabet.” He let the cover fall and started searching for a pair of gloves. “In fact, I don’t recognize the script at all. I’ll need a larger sample—”

Gabriel clapped his hands. “Good! Excellent, that’s just what I like to hear. Your obsession with material objects and human record keeping finally has a use. So glad we have an expert to consult on this.” Aziraphale hid a little smile at that. Expert. “See what you can find out by the end of the week.”

“End of the – you can’t be serious.” Aziraphale pulled his glasses off, waving them as politely as he could. “I mean, I’m sure you have your reasons, O holy Archangel, but deciphering an unknown text takes time. Not to mention identifying a curse—”

“We already have a team on that,” Gabriel interrupted, before Aziraphale could confess to knowing very little about demonic curses, apart from the sort Crowley shouted at other drivers.

“Oh. Jolly good.”

“Yes, they’ve told me the curse is so potent, any angel attempting to remove it would be immediately destroyed. Incinerated was the term they used.”

“Ah.” Aziraphale took a step away from the desk. “Well, I suppose that does change things.”

Gabriel shrugged. “As long as you don’t try to remove the curse yourself, you’re fine. Anyway, by Friday night, they’ll have worked out a proper disposal method. I proposed launching the book into the sun but apparently that would cause a, what did they call it, Superb Nova.”

“Oh dear.” Another step away. “You know, Gabriel, as…happy as I am that you wish to entrust this task to me, er, we are currently located in a major population center, and I don’t think—”

“Aziraphale,” Gabriel gave him that warm look, the one he saw so rarely, the one that made him feel included. “This raid was a big deal. I don’t want to start any rumors, but…it’s possible the demons were planning something. I would consider it a huge favor if you could just, I don’t know, poke around a bit? Find out what they wanted?”

“Well…as…as a favor…” There was a shiver of happiness running up his spine at that. Gabriel never asked for favors. “Yes, I think I can…learn a few things that might help you out. As long as it’s safe?”

“It’s fine!” Gabriel picked up the book and waved it around. “Perfectly harmless to angels; obviously, don’t let any humans near it. They might set something off. Probably blow up half the city!” He laughed, tossing the book. It hit the table with a crack, falling open to a random page.

“Oh, dear.” That hardly sounded safe. “What…if a demon tried? Er, someone come looking for his lost property, perhaps?”

“It would be very bad. No one touches this but you. Understand?”

Aziraphale nodded, feeling rather ill. He should say no, there were too many things that could go wrong.

His eyes drifted to the open book, the strange writing, a drawing of some horrifying creature. One word was a little larger than the rest and for a second, it looked familiar. He bent closer, almost instinctively. “This text…I almost think I’ve seen it before. No, it’s gone now, but perhaps…” He looked up in time to catch an eager gleam in Gabriel’s eyes. “Yes, I think…I can take a look. As…as a favor.”

“Excellent! That’s exactly the attitude I like to see. Now if you’ll excuse me, lots to do, places to be. I’ll follow up with you on Friday. Say, four o’clock?”

In a twinkling of light and a pop of air pressure, Aziraphale was alone with the book.

--

“He just – just left you with a cursed book?” Crowley paid the ice cream vendor and handed Aziraphale his cone.

“Yes. Is that so strange? I am an expert on Earth tomes, and languages, and treatises on magic.” He puffed his chest a little. “Why shouldn’t Heaven give me such a fascinating project?”

“Because they don’t care about any of that,” Crowley snapped flatly. “Besides, languages? I’ve heard you speak French.”

“I was having a bit of an off day,” Aziraphale pouted. “I shouldn’t be judged based on a single incident – what was it, two hundred and six years ago now? For all you know, I’ve been brushing up on my French ever since.” He licked the ice cream, smiling at the thick, creamy texture of it.

“Have you though?” Crowley sauntered alongside him, hands in his pockets, red hair slicked and gelled tight against his head.

“Well, no, but only because I’ve already read everything of interest in French.”

“Is that so?” Crowley smirked as if he was so clever. “Does this mean you finally got around to reading Proust?”

“Well. No. But neither have you.” Aziraphale took a quick bite of his ice cream before it could melt down his hand.

“Yeah, but I don’t live in a bookshop,” Crowley took a few steps ahead and started walking backwards, smirk evolving into a rather large grin. “So that makes me wonder who else you haven’t read. Dickens? Twain? Dostoyevsky? Is the Principality Aziraphale, in fact, a giant sham?”

The angel pursed his lips. “Any luck getting your car to play other music?”

Crowley’s face fell. “No,” he muttered, circling back to walk beside Aziraphale again. “At this point I’m really starting to get sick of Queen. Hope it doesn’t go on too much longer.”

--

Aziraphale stood before his desk, book lying innocuously on the blotter. He wore the thickest gloves he could find and – just to be safe – had rolled his sleeves up past the elbow. He still approached it with extreme caution.

One finger carefully tapped the spine, pulling away instantly.

No sparks. No chills. No cloud of demonic energy.

Just a perfectly ordinary book, really.

With feather-light touch, he brushed his fingers down the cover. Leather-bound, deep red-brown. Hopefully normal leather, but you never knew with demonic books, or for that matter certain obscure human texts. Sturdy and thick, the binding worn through in a few places just enough to indicate irregular use. No title, but gold pressed into the leather formed some sort of broad-leafed plant. Nothing he recognized.

Lifting the cover, he inspected the pages inside. Thick, rough paper – the edges a bit uneven and ragged in places. When he leaned close to inspect them, he detected the distinct dusty scent of old book, with just a hint of spice.

It seemed that Gabriel was correct. Nothing suggested the book was dangerous to touch.

Aziraphale set his armchair beside the desk and settled in for some proper investigation.

The first step of his process: Aziraphale turned to a page at random. He liked to think providence was guiding him to the first clues.

It looked much as that page he’d glimpsed during Gabriel’s visit, yet also entirely different. Small, curving letters – a bit like calligraphy, half unical, he thought, perhaps English or Irish – arrayed around complex illustrations of green plants on one side, and something that might have been an insect on the other. The artwork was immensely detailed, with subtle color variations, but resembled nothing he had ever seen.

The text was also strange, the longer he looked at it. He skimmed the page looking for patterns, groups of letters that appeared together more than once. Nothing. There were distinct words, all between four and seven characters, but each was unique. And the characters each looked sharp and clear and perfectly uniform in size, but there was variation, each uniquely formed, as if handwritten.

He turned the pages, sheet after sheet, looking for anything he recognized, leaning closer as he read. Sometimes a word would look almost familiar and then – no, it was gone.--

--

(The horror movie Aziraphale mentions is supposed to be “The Haunting” but I got it a bit confused with other movies from the late 90s. The mysterious writing and diagrams are loosely based on several mysterious texts, most notably the Voynich Manuscript.)

[teamhook]

A Chapter A Day... Savage Heart CS AU :: Finale

Well, this is it the last of the month and a chapter a day. Today I give you the final two chapters. Yes, I know I don’t know how to count. :) Sorry.

I wanna thank @ilovemesomekillianjones​ my beta for the story. She is amazing! The sweetest person and I was lucky she agreed to help me with this story.

The lovely cover was made by the awesome @xhookswenchx​ one of the first to give love to this story.

 I also wanna thank @ultraluckycatnd​ for looking over the last chapter to calm my nerves. I was afraid I was rushing.

|AO3| |FFN| previous chapter

|AO3| |FFN| current chapter

Chapter 30: New Beginnings

~~~Golden Cove

After a celebratory dinner at the Nolan's home, celebrating Killian and Emma's union, Emma's safe return, and the fact that the whole family was all back together, along with a few new faces, Graham had decided to go back to Golden Cove.

He is determined to find out the culprits of the capture of the young Mrs. Jones. She had mentioned two young boys, both from Misthaven, the Doctor, and a man they called Peters. One of the boys had aided her in her escape. Graham had asked a few locals about the Doctor and Peters but they had claimed to not know anything about either man. The frustration he feels is great, he has lived on the outskirts of town not far from them for years. He has sold them furs and meat but he is still seen as an outsider. They still don't trust him.

After days of having no leads he decides to go to one of the seediest taverns in town since alcohol is known to loosen people's tongues. He hopes to find a little luck in his pursuit of justice. The tavern is small, but it's filled with rowdy men and a few familiar faces. There is one that catches his attention. A former Doctor, who usually keeps to himself is surrounded by drunken men. The man is spending a lot of money, yet there is no explanation for his small fortune. His practice is currently nonexistent.

Graham approached the table with a smile. "Good day, Mr. Hyde." The Doctor smiles, "Good day, huntsman. How's hunting treating you?"

"It has been a bit slow, how about you? You seem to be in good spirits." Graham sits down across from the man.

"I came into a bit of money thanks to an old friend." There is a slight slur to Hyde's voice.

"An old friend?" Graham asks. Perhaps this is the lead he needs.

The Doctor nods, "Yes, helped out an old friend and he was generous."

"Sounds great, do you think your friend could help me out? Hunting has been too slow lately," Graham prodded.

"I'm afraid that is no longer a possibility. He's gone back to town."

"Too bad, I could have used some generosity myself," Graham sighs. "Could you let your friend know about me in case there's another opportunity?"

"I'll keep it in mind. You never know, maybe Malcolm will need help once more."

"Is your friend Malcolm from around here?"

"Yes, he owns a house just outside of town."

Graham starts piecing the puzzle together. The house where Emma was kept was outside of town, the mysterious Malcolm, and the Doctor. "Outside of town, isn't that property owned by Fiona Black?"

"Yes, that's Malcolm's late wife's maiden name."

"Oh, isn't it uncommon for a woman not to take her husband's name?"

"Fiona was a piece of work. She enjoyed making Malcolm feel worthless. When she died, Malcolm didn't shed a tear."

"The name Malcolm sounds familiar, what's his last name?"

"Oh, Peters. I doubt you know him, he has long been gone from town."

"I just thought I had heard someone mention him recently," Graham responds. He just has to act natural so Hyde won't get spooked. He wants to appeal to his good side and hopes to convince him to provide information. When Graham has what he needs, he parts ways with the Doctor.

Unfortunately, Graham isn't the only one that had noticed the good doctor's newfound wealth, and on his walk home, Doctor Hyde finds himself on the wrong side of a blade.

All that Graham finds at Doctor Hyde's place is the last piece of jewelry the man had squirreled away.

~~~Booth Estate

Cora arrives back home with Malcolm and is greeted by Milah casually leaning on the wall facing the front door, a smirk dancing on her face. "Please, tell me I have to play the grieving widow."

Cora clenches her jaw and sneers at the woman she has grown to hate. "In a perfect world, you'd be dead."

Milah rolls her eyes and sighs. "So that's a no. Too bad, I look great in black." She walks away thinking that luck isn't on her side, she had hoped Killian would free her from her marriage. All she can do is wonder why he didn't kill August?

Enith nervously asks, "Is there anything I can do for you, ma'am?"

Cora quickly responds, "Did my son come home?"

"I'm afraid not, ma'am."

Cora sighs as she walks toward the open door she had forgotten to close when she first arrived home. She looks out and wonders where the hell August has gone. "Enith, let me know the moment he arrives."

Enith curtsies, "Yes, ma'am."

~~~Nottingham's Office

"Mr. Booth, tell me what you have in mind?"

"Simply take everything from him. His money, his wife, his freedom."

Sheriff Nottingham smiles. "I like the way you think, and I may have just the perfect place to start."

August nods. "Tell me."

"I'm in possession of the pirate's ship. We recently raided a different ship with stolen goods. The pirate claims he has a reputable business. We can claim otherwise. We fill his ship with contraband. He will lose his newfound reputation, and his wife will see him for the louse he is. He will rot in prison for the rest of his life."

"Do it." August quickly agrees with the plan.

Nottingham smiles wickedly. "I'll take care of it."

August leaves the office with a smile.

Nottingham orders some of the guards at the prison to transfer the confiscated items to the ship.

~~~Misthaven

After being dumped by Malcolm back at the docks in the port town, Felix had been in a bad mood. He had taken out his anger on Rufio, talking down to him and even giving him an occasional beating. Rufio has had enough.

They had been told to stick by the old woman's home and not to venture to the docks. The older lady is kind to them, but Rufio is tired and he misses the smell of the sea. He also wants to make sure Emma had made it back home. He knows that she will get the Captain to forgive him. It doesn't take long for him to reach the house, staying in the shadows. He won't approach Captain Jones until he knows the Captain has talked to his wife.

Felix, on the other hand, tries to contact Malcolm and fails, so he starts hanging out at the docks, blatantly ignoring the man's instructions. He's currently sitting on top of some old discarded crates looking at the horizon.

The older sailors just walk by him like he doesn't exist. The only one who had ever acted like an orphan like him mattered, was Captain Jones, but he went and married that woman. He knows Rufio let her go. Felix is surprised when he sees Mr. Peters walking toward him with a scowl on his face.

"Felix, what are you doing here?" Malcolm hisses. "I told you to stay put." He grabs the boy's arm. "I don't have time for this."

Felix glares at Malcolm. "Maybe you'll make time if Captain Jones found out you were responsible for his wife's disappearance."

Malcolm stares at him. "I'm sorry, you're right. Come along." Felix complies with a smile.

The older man leads him to the tavern by the docks. "Stay here, I have to go inside to look for someone."

"I can go in there," Felix whined.

"Just wait here, it will be a second." Malcolm walks inside and minutes later he emerges. "Alright let's go."

The smile returns to Felix's face. As they walk back to the docks, Felix stops. Malcolm turns to the boy annoyed. "Why are you stopping?"

"I want to show you something." Felix takes off running towards the beach.

Malcolm watches the boy run to the beach. He has a job to do but it seems the day has turned into him taking care of children. After the threat Felix made earlier, he decides to go after him. When he finally reaches him, he finds Felix kicking rocks into the water. They're standing on a ledge on a cliff overlooking the water. Malcolm peers over, the water is surprisingly calm.

Felix turns to Malcolm. "We call this Skull Rock. All the lost boys come here to watch the ships arrive. We would watch the Jolly from miles away and then run to the docks to meet Captain Jones."

Malcolm smiles and nudges Felix. The boy reacts fast enough to grab onto the ledge, the rocks crumbling under his grip. "Please, help me. Don't let me fall. I don't know how to swim." Little does he know that the fall will kill him before he drowns.

Malcolm smirks. "Felix, what kind of sailor doesn't know how to swim?" With those words, he kicks at Felix. Felix loses his grip and falls. One last look and Malcolm walks away. He liked the boy, he really did, but he had threatened him. What was he to do?

Now to find his boss.

Malcolm was so busy trying to get back to his task that he failed to notice Rufio had just witnessed the whole thing.

An hour or so later, Malcolm finds August at the Golden Goose Tavern, passed out.

Malcolm finally returns to the Booth Estate with August in tow.

~~~Jones Home

The group arrives at the house and seats themselves in the living room. Everyone is still shaken by this new secret that's come to light.

Emma is caressing Killian's stubbled cheek while she sniffles. She is trying to come to terms with today's events and the scare of possibly losing him.

Killian turns his attention to Archie. "Did you know?" he asks, then laughs humorlessly at his own question. "Of course you knew, that's why you looked out for me, right?" His eyebrow raises. "Not because you cared for me, but because of him - my so-called father. I always wondered why I was so lucky to have your protection." Emma kept her hand on Killian's arm as he ranted.

Archie stayed quiet.

Killian turned to Emma. "Milah was right, and you didn't know before today?"

Emma locks eyes with her husband. "No, Killian. I found out today. The only reason Cora told me was because she wanted my help in stopping you from killing August. We already talked about this, before I was kidnapped. I'm sorry, Killian, that you had to grow up alone, thinking you had no one, when in actuality, you had two brothers. I wouldn't have kept this secret from you." She flinches as she looks at Archie's fallen face.

Liam finally breaks his silence. "Brother, do you think you and August can mend your friendship?"

Killian scoffs, "I doubt it; he wants me dead and my wife in his bed."

Emma and Tink share a look that isn't missed by Killian. "Tink, what was that look about?" He is glaring at her.

Tink mouths sorry to Emma. "He came here looking for you and he got handsy with Emma."

Killian turns to Emma. "Darling, you didn't think I should know that? What did he do, did he hurt you?" He looks her over to make sure there are no bruises.

Emma sighs. "He was drunk and I was going to tell you but I wanted to wait until the shock of finding out your brothers wore off. He got handsy and when I said no, he tried harder. Tink helped me but I just didn't want you to do something you'd regret. He is your brother."

"Darling, you should have said something. He shouldn't have touched you. This is all my fault."

"Brother, I hate to interrupt, but I'm afraid we need to inform Emma's parents of the situation. Not everything bad people do is your fault Killian." He turns to Emma. "I'm happy you're alright." He smiles at her fondly.

"Liam is right, they need to know about Milah. It's about time they find out the truth. It's gonna break their hearts, but it's for the best."

Killian sighs. "They're going to hate me. What if they ask you to leave me?"

Emma shakes her head. "I would never do that. I love you. They might be angry at first but you didn't force Milah into anything. Milah has always done whatever she wants."

~~~The Nolans

After a lengthy conversation, Emma and Killian go talk to her parents about the Milah situation. Emma wants to make sure her parents get Killian's side of the story before Milah's. Her cousin is conniving and she would use any means to ensure that Killian is seen as the villain. His past is going to make it hard enough to believe their version rather than whatever fanciful story Milah comes up with.

Liam and Nemo hesitate in going with them, but Emma convinces them to go since Ingrid and Elsa are staying at her parents' house. The mere mention of Elsa puts a smile on Liam's face after the day they've had. Nemo agrees saying it is sensible for someone with a clear head to be there. Archie is quiet as he accompanies them and Tink decides to stay home.

The Nolans are engaged in a lovely post-dinner conversation with their visitors Ingrid and Elsa, and Snow has just excused herself to get some cookies and tea for the group.

David enjoys having his old friends around him; it feels like old times. Of course, there is the added bonus that he is back with his family, his lovely wife, and daughters. Although Milah isn't his, he loves her as if she is. She is all he has left of his brother. While enjoying the company, Emma and Killian arrive with the rest of the houseguests.

David notices Emma's demeanor. He knows his daughter and she looks upset.

"Father, we need to talk to you in private," Emma tells him after she says her hellos to everyone.

"This sounds serious." He turns to their guests and excuses himself. "Should I fetch your mother?"

Emma turns to Killian. "Yes, it would be best if we don't have to repeat the story. We'll be waiting in your office."

David goes to go get Snow and they return to their guests with enough cookies and tea for the new arrivals as well. They excuse themselves from their company to tend to Emma and Killian. The young couple is sitting down by the time Snow and David arrive and take their seats.

"All right, what's going on?" David asks.

"Mom, Dad, there's no easy way to say this… so I am just going to say it. Milah and Killian had a relationship before she married August, August found out and he challenged Killian to a duel but Cora and I stopped it because it turns out that August and Killian are brothers." Emma summarizes the events, relaying them as quickly as she can.

Snow and David turn to each other and for a brief second have a mental conversation. Then David gets up and approaches Killian. Emma reacts quickly as she stands to block her father's path. Killian squeezes her arm.

Snow gasps. "The rumor, it was her! It was her all along and she didn't think twice about saying it was Emma."

David is glaring at Killian over Emma's shoulder. "What rumor are you speaking of?"

Emma is the one to answer. "There was a rumor around town about one of the Nolan Countesses having a relationship with Killian. And yes, Mother, it was Milah."

"Emma, how can you be so calm? Did you know about this?"

"I did, Dad," Emma answers with a small smile.

"And you still married him?" David is itching to punch Killian. "Did he force you to?"

"He didn't force anyone. Not me, not Milah."

David's glare intensifies.

"Dad, they were betrothed, Milah promised to marry Killian and instead married August, while Killian was away on business. Yes, I knew. I found out shortly after she married August. I thought about exposing the affair but who would believe me? I would be accused of lying because I was being spiteful."

Snow is quiet. "This is all my fault; I've spoiled Milah. I remember when the rumor was mentioned, before she claimed it had been Emma, and it was her. How could she accuse Emma knowing full well it wasn't, David?" she sighs. "Emma is right. If she would have said something, she would have been accused of lying. Milah didn't even think twice about accepting August's proposal."

"Mom, Dad, that's not the worst thing. I think she was responsible for my kidnapping."

"Emma, how can you say that? She is your family." David shakes his head in denial.

"I say it because she is vile and she wants Killian." Emma glares at her father.

David turns his face away to avoid his daughter's scowl, and so he doesn't argue further. "Alright, so August knows and there was a duel?"

Emma nods. "Yes, and I helped Cora stop it with a letter saying that Killian is Brennan Booth's son. We just didn't want you to be surprised by the revelation if Cora or August come here. I don't know what they plan to do about Milah, they might want to return her."

David and Snow exchange looks before he sighs. "Snow what are we going to do with her?" Snow closes her eyes and tears fall out. "We tried to be good parents. I went out of my way so she wouldn't feel we favored you - but it seems as if it was all for nothing. As for the Killian situation, I'm not surprised. I did tell you I saw a resemblance."

"Mom, you knew?"

"I wasn't sure. I saw the letter but when I asked Cora, she denied it. I'm guessing because of reputation."

"I guess saving August's life was more important than that."

Killian finally spoke. "Mr. and Mrs. Nolan, Milah approached me. I'm not saying I have no responsibility in the matter. I was going to marry her upon my return from Arendelle but I was too late. I was angry and I wanted her back. Then I met Emma and we got to know each other and little by little the anger was replaced by something else. Before we knew it and were able to accept it, we fell in love. I swear I only want to be a man deserving of her love. I've made mistakes, I cannot deny that, but your daughter is the love of my life."

Killian's words appease his in-laws, not to mention, neither Snow nor David can deny the love that flows between the young couple.

As the day comes to an end, Killian and Emma make their departure, retreating to their home. Her parents hadn't opted to make her a widow and she is grateful because she's extremely fond of her husband.

As they lay down for the night, Emma notices Killian is very calm and decides to take advantage, "Killian?"

He turns to look at her with a smile, things had gone a lot better than expected. "Yes, my love."

"Rufio, uhm he helped me and I'm worried about him." Emma feels him tense up. "Killian, I told him you would forgive him if I asked. So I'm asking, when I find him, please forgive him. He took care of me. He talked about you nonstop and I think it was for my benefit, so I wouldn't miss you. He helped me escape. Please."

Killian sighs. "Your wish is my command. I'll do my best to look past his actions."

"I don't think it was their fault. They were led to believe that without me, you would go back to your life at sea."

"Who would do that?"

"Rufio mentioned a man, Peters, and the name didn't sound familiar until today."

"Why today, love?"

"Cora introduced him to me while we went looking for you. That's his last name. It has to be more than just a coincidence that he lives at the Booth Estate. I've suspected Milah from the moment I woke up in that place."

Emma snuggles closer, his strong arms engulfing her. There's a silence between them as they contemplate what has transpired since they met, and soon they fall asleep. Tomorrow will be a better day.

~~~Booth Home *Next Day

Cora is anxiously still waiting for August to wake up. He had been passed out when Malcolm had retrieved him from some tavern. She could smell the cheap alcohol coming off him when Malcolm brought him home. She couldn't regret her actions because all that mattered was that her son was alive. She would deal with the consequences of her secret being out later. She just hopes he didn't make any more stupid decisions.

August wakes up hungover and he's a little disorientated. All the memories come back from the previous night. He stumbles as he dresses to go get something to drink. His mouth is dry and he has a headache. The path to the dining room is too bright but he carries on. The only thing that gives him comfort is that his mother thought of making up one of the guest rooms for him. Just the thought of going to his marital room makes him sick.

He will go see the Sheriff to make sure that Jones is taken care of. Oh, and he will ask Nottingham to ensure that he will not allow Emma passage to see Killian. He knows that in time, Emma will realize Killian isn't the man for her.

His mother sits at the head of the table, eating some fruit. She looks at him as he enters the room. "Son, good you're awake. We need to talk."

"Good morning, Mother. I don't want to talk right now." His eyes turn to Milah. "Whore, shouldn't you be on your back?"

Milah smirks. "You loved me on my back." She returns her attention to her tea.

"Apparently I wasn't the only one, but soon your lover will get what he deserves," August mocks.

Milah studies August's demeanor, he has an appeal he didn't have before. She shakes her head. She looks down at her plate and pushes it aside. She hasn't been able to keep anything down.

Cora glares at Milah. "I hate you, and you will get what you deserve, you vile whore." Cora stands up and storms off.

Milah has an idea of what ails her but she hopes she is wrong. She can't go to the doctor, but she can go to the healer. She goes back to her room and dresses. No one seems to care about her whereabouts anymore. She has a horse saddled and makes her trip.

The healer confirms her suspicions. She is pregnant and the father has to be August. Her little indiscretion with the Sheriff was recent and she had felt the symptoms shortly after her honeymoon. Now to decide if she wants to claim the child is Killian's and destroy his marriage or tell the truth and have the child be the heir of the Booth Estate.

~~~Jones Home

Emma and Killian are sharing breakfast with Tink while they tell her about the events from the prior day when there's a pounding at the door. Tink smiles. "I'll get it. You two enjoy your breakfast." Tink rushes to the door since the pounding is getting louder.

Sheriff Nottingham is standing at the door. As soon as the door opens, he pushes his way through. "Where's Jones? I'm here to arrest him. We found contraband on his ship, The Jolly Roger." His men follow him inside.

Tink glares at him. "You know perfectly well that he gave up the ship for Emma's return."

The Sheriff waves some documents in her face. "These papers name him as the owner of the ship and the warehouse. Jones, come out and face me!" he screams.

"What the bloody hell is going on?" Killian demands as he and Emma come into the living room.

"Killian Jones, you're under arrest for contraband of stolen goods," Nottingham informs him.

Killian is frozen in place and he turns to Emma. His strong, lovely Emma.

Emma glares at Nottingham. "What proof do you have?"

"Ma'am, this is really not any of your business. You should go to your room," Sheriff Nottingham says, annoyed.

"You bloody git, you will show my wife the respect she deserves," Killian growls through gritted teeth.

"If she wanted respect, she should have married a man of honor," Nottingham mocks. The two men standing next to the foul lawman start walking toward Killian.

Killian turns to Emma. "Love, get Archie. He has proof about the legitimacy of my business. Don't worry, I will be home before you know it." Killian agrees to go with Nottingham if only to save Emma any further embarrassment from watching him being arrested.

As they watch Killian being manhandled into the Sheriff's carriage, Tink turns to Emma. "I'll go get Archie. Don't worry Emma."

Emma's eyes are watery from the tears that are threatening to fall. She turns to Tink. "I think my dad can help too, and Liam. He needs to know about Killian."

"Emma, you do know this is not true. Killian has turned his life around and it's all because of you."

Emma sniffles, "I know."

Tink takes off to go fetch Archie.

Emma is restless. She wants to go ask her dad for help getting Killian out of trouble. She keeps pacing and she is going to go crazy if she doesn't do something.

Rufio had slept on the beach, he's lucky it's still warm. He doesn't know if Peters is looking for him to get rid of him too. He needs to go talk to Mrs. Jones, and can only hope Captain Jones doesn't kill him on sight.

Rufio arrives at the Jones home. He's second-guessing his decision but he's alone. Felix was his closest friend and now he is gone. He can't go to the Sheriff because he won't care about an orphan.

The door flies open and Rufio is startled. Emma's eyes widened. "Rufio?"

He smiles. "Is it safe?"

Emma opens the door wider. "Come in," she tells the boy.

"Mrs. Emma is everything alright?"

"Rufio, everything will be okay. I've been so worried about you. What are you doing here?"

"He's dead," Rufio mutters as his bottom lip trembles.

"Who's dead?" she asks.

"Felix," he whispers as Emma pulls him into a hug.

Nottingham's Office

Sheriff Nottingham is grinning as he finishes filling out paperwork. Killian sits in the chair as the Sheriff hums happily at his turn in luck.

"Alright, take Jones here to his new home. Oh, and make sure it's the filthiest cell. And no bunkmates," Nottingham orders the two henchman standing guard at the door.

The men grab Killian roughly by the shoulders and head to the dungeons.

~~~

Tink arrives at Archie's office and tells him the news. He tells her to go be with Emma since Killian wouldn't want her to be alone. He promises to gather David and Liam and then head to the Sheriff's office.

Once at the Nolan's, Archie informs them of the situation as relayed to him by Tink. Archie, Liam, and Nemo head to the Sheriff's office and David heads to Emma's side.

As soon as Emma opens the door, she crashes into her father's arms. "Dad before you say anything, Killian is innocent. That horrible man made a show of arresting him." She tries not to let the tears flow.

David holds her tight and sighs. "Sweetheart, I know you love him, but is he worth all this trouble? The thing with Milah and now this?"

Emma stiffens and pushes herself away from her father's embrace. "If you're not here to help then maybe you should leave. I love him, Dad, and I know he is innocent. The thing with Milah, it wasn't just him. Yet somehow he is the only villain in the situation."

David nods. "Alright, I will go see him once we have more details. Archie, Liam, and Nemo went to go talk to the Sheriff. All we can do for now is wait. Emma, your mother wanted to come but she was convinced by Ingrid and Elsa to wait for more information."

They head to the kitchen where Tink and Rufio are drinking some hot tea.

David quirks a brow at the sight of the young man.

"Oh, Dad this is Rufio, He helped me escape."

David's eyes go wide. "Emma, how can you have someone in your home that kidnapped you?"

"Dad, stop it." Rufio stands up, but a quick look to Emma makes him take his seat.

"He and Felix were manipulated by an older man who used their desire to be in Killian's crew. The other boy was killed yesterday by the same man."

"Emma, do you know who kidnapped you?"

"I know there was the doctor, Rufio, and Felix. The one that gave instructions was a man named Peters, who happens to be the steward at the Booth Estate."

"What?" David's voice rises.

"It can't just be a coincidence."

"Shouldn't we go to the Sheriff with this information?"

"You want to go to the man that arrested my husband?"

"We have to go to someone. If that man was truly responsible, he needs to be held accountable. Emma, he's the law. We have to inform him."

"I want to go visit Killian."

"Sweetheart, that place isn't somewhere you should be. I don't think Killian would want you to see him there. I'll go check on Killian. I know Liam, Nemo, and Archie were going to go find more information."

"Fine, I'll go talk to Cora. She owes me for helping her stop the duel and she needs to know what kind of man is working for her. Dad, make sure Killian is okay. I'll take Tink with me, Rufio will stay here."

Rufio looks up at the mention of his name.

Emma smiles at him. "It's safer this way. That way Mr. Peters doesn't see you."

Tink stands up. "I'm ready to go. But, Emma are you sure she can help?"

Emma tilts her head. "She is a Booth and they're powerful. If Sheriff Nottingham wants to keep his job, he will listen to her."

Emma is determined to get Killian out of that prison and she is starting to worry about just how dangerous Peters could be. Did Cora know what he was up to? If that was the case, that meant she was responsible for her kidnapping. Milah made more sense. Why would Cora want her kidnapped? Emma tries to think of possible reasons.

The carriage arrives at the Booth Estate. Emma and Tink walk to the door and knock.

"Darling girl, I didn't expect to see you so soon," Cora greets them, opening the door herself, for them to enter.

"Is Enith sick?" Emma asks as they enter the house.

Cora rolls her eyes. "No, she's fine. Now tell me, to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit."

"I need a favor," Emma says as she and Tink follow the older woman toward the office.

"A favor, what kind of favor?" Cora asks.

"I should say it's more of a payback for all those years my husband was alone."

Cora's smile thins. "What trouble has befallen the pirate?"

"He was arrested."

"I'm sorry Emma, but I can't say I'm surprised."

Tink scoffs. "Lady, Killian is innocent. Sheriff Nottingham knows this. He is saying there was contraband on the Jolly, but Killian gave it up in exchange for Emma. Nottingham hates Killian."

Emma smiles. "We still have the letter. The one that saved your son's life."

"Well, this is interesting. I'm being blackmailed by the pirate's wife."

Emma shakes her head. "Think of it as you wish. All I want is my husband home."

"Fine, I'll see what I can do."

"Oh and Cora, how well do you know Mr. Peters?"

"Why do you ask?"

Emma sighs and continues. "He was the one that ordered my kidnapping and that's not all. One of the boys he tricked into helping him was killed by his hand."

Cora turns white. "How can you make such serious accusations?"

"I befriended one of the boys and he helped me escape. He told me Peters' name and he saw him kill the other boy. I don't understand why he would want to kidnap me, but I think it has to do with Milah."

"I'm sorry darling, but your cousin is despicable. I wouldn't put it past her." Cora knows that Malcolm acted under her own orders, but blaming Milah couldn't be an easier out and it didn't bother her one bit.

"Is she here?" Emma asks.

"She was here earlier. I'm sorry dear, but I'd rather not have to lay eyes on her. As for your favor, I will see what I can do."

"Cora, you owe him. You owe us."

"I'll go talk to the Sheriff and I will stop by your house with news."

"Thank you." Emma nods to Tink and they both rise to leave.

Cora follows them out. As she watches the carriage leave, she wonders what trouble Malcolm has gotten into.

Nottingham's Office

Liam, Nemo, and Archie arrive and the quiet mannered man pounds on the door. Sheriff Nottingham welcomes them with a wide grin on his sleazy face.

"Please, come in and sit. Would any of you like something to drink? It's a special occasion for me so please don't judge me too harshly if I enjoy some rum," the lawman says as he pours himself a drink.

Archie is outraged. "You have no case against Killian and you know it! I have proof." He throws some documents on the desk.

The Sheriff smiles and tisks. "After all these years, you should call me by my first name, Keith. We have proof of stolen goods found on the ship."

Archie laughs. "You know that the ship was forfeited by Killian as a ransom for his wife. So you got your hands on the ship when Tink told you about the letter. We all know that the warehouse is clean of any stolen merchandise. This is just an attempt to finally best Killian by framing him. You didn't realize that he is not alone. He is not that poor orphan you've tried to step on."

"I agree with Archie, my brother is innocent and the proof you claim to have was planted by you. If we have to prove it we will, but mark my words Sheriff, you will pay for your treachery. Your questionable reputation is well known."

"Perhaps you all should be more respectful since I'm the one that decides if any of you get to see the pirate," Nottingham mocks. "But since I'm in such a great mood I will allow all of you to visit him." He smiles and yells out, "Guards!"

Nottingham sweats a bit but he feels confident that with August's support and the fact that Killian has a reputation, it will all turn out in his favor.

The men descend to the dungeons. Nemo and Archie quietly follow Liam and the guards leading the way. The cell is small, with a cot against the wall and a small barred window. Killian is looking out the window.

"I'm not in the bloody mood, Nottingham."

Liam clears his throat. "Brother, it's us."

Killian turns and walks to the barred door. "Liam, please take Emma to Arendelle. I don't want her to live with the humiliation that being married to me will inevitably bring. She deserves better. Perhaps even in time, she will find a suitor. I doubt I will get out of here. Nottingham will do everything in his power to make sure I rot in here."

Archie approaches from the back. "We will get you out of here. I promise."

Killian turns away as the three men leave with an unspoken promise to reunite the Captain with his wife.

Nottingham is sitting at his desk unable to hide his joy when the door opens and August saunters inside, uninvited.

August smiles. "I'm assuming it's done?"

"It is," he confirms with a wide grin.

"Any chance he'll try to escape?" August asks, sitting down.

"No, he wants to be an honorable man. If he attempted it, it would only make him look guilty."

"Sheriff, a favor, please. Ensure he isn't allowed visits from his wife."

"Of course. Hopper and some other men were visiting with him. The guards just let them out."

"I saw them come out before I entered. I should pay his wife a visit, to offer her my shoulder to cry on."

"How noble of you," Nottingham says. "Although, I'd advise you not to do that. Perhaps act as if you're unaware of the trouble that has befallen them."

August ponders the man's words, he could instead apologize for his behavior. "Thank you for your advice. I have a feeling things are going to start looking up for me."

The Sheriff wonders what Booth means by that, but he doesn't care to ask.

Hours later, David arrives at Nottingham's office and the man reluctantly allows him to visit Killian.

Killian swears to his father-in-law that he didn't do what he's accused of and begs him to keep an eye on Emma and to not bring her to see him like this. The thought of her in this place kills him. Mr. Nolan assures him that he believes him, if not only for the faith his daughter has in him. The distress he shows only increases the belief in his innocence.

Cora enters the office a little while later with an air of royalty. "Mr. Nottingham, I'm here to give you two choices. Please make sure you pick the right one. Release Killian Jones or cross me and bear the consequences. I'm sure you enjoy your job and the luxuries that come with it."

The Sheriff stares at her dumbfoundedly. "I'm sorry, are you threatening me?"

"Oh, dear Sheriff, you don't want to make an enemy out of me." She glares at him with her lips in a thin line. "I expect Mr. Jones to be released as soon as possible." Cora doesn't wait for an answer before sauntering out the door as regal as she had entered.

Emma is growing impatient, her dad has been gone for a while. No news from Cora or him is driving her crazy. She needs to know that Killian is okay, safe. As safe as he can be. So she sneaks out when Tink and Rufio are busy trying to make something for her to eat.

She reaches the Sheriff's faster than expected. She knocks and is called inside.

Sheriff Nottingham stands up as soon as his eyes land on her. She is a beautiful woman. He wonders if her desperation will lead her to some unsavory decisions. If he's honest, he wouldn't object to her trying to persuade him for her husband's freedom.

"Mrs. Jones, how can I help you?" His smile is lecherous to say the least.

"Sheriff, I'm here to see my husband." She stands tall with her head high.

"I'm afraid that's not possible," he shrugs.

"Excuse me? Why can't I see my husband?" Her fierce eyes threaten to burn him alive.

"I'm sorry, Mrs. Jones, there are some things I need to check before the nuns visit tomorrow for their weekly visit. Please, excuse me." He stands and goes to the door, and she makes her way to the door as well.

Emma is not happy but she has an idea. She remembers that the nuns visit the prisoners weekly to take them food and blankets.

She smiles as she decides her next stop The Convent.

Mother Superior is surprised to see her, and has nothing but pity in her eyes when Emma shares the reason for her visit. At first, Mother Superior feelsEmma shouldn't visit Killian, but when Emma shares the information about the donations Killian has been making anonymously to the convent, the nun has a change of heart. The nun offers her help in the form of a habit and veil for Emma to wear.

Mother Superior hands her the items. "You will wear this. Perhaps, arrive early enough to change and then we can leave."

"Thank you, Mother Superior. Please, don't deny Killian the ability to give money to the orphans. He has a good heart and he thought you wouldn't accept the money if you knew where it came from."

Mother Superior smiles kindly at Emma.

Jones' Home

Tink is startled by a knock on the door and she goes to answer it. August Booth stands there with a smile on his face.

She locks eyes with him. "What do you want?"

"Is Emma home? I would like to apologize for my behavior."

Tink stares. "And you think it's proper for you to come looking for Emma and not ask for her husband to be present?"

"I owe Emma an apology, not the Pirate," he shrugs nonchalantly. "Could you please fetch her."

"I'm not the maid. And you should apologize to both Emma and Killian. All of you rich people think you're above Killian, but you did something Killian would have never ever done or had the need to. I'm sorry your wife lied to you but you're not the only victim here. She hurt Emma and Killian as well. To be honest, I don't think Emma is ready to see you." She slams the door in his face.

August stands in front of the door, reeling from what the girl had said. Not a lot of women would have talked to him like that. His position would have warranted him special treatment, but this girl didn't care who he was.

He decides to leave before she comes out to lecture him more. He feels dirty and ashamed.

Sometime later Emma arrives home just before her father arrives with an update. Emma is not happy to hear from her father's lips that Killian doesn't want her to go see him. She'll give him a piece of her mind when she sees him.

The last visit is from Cora to let her know she paid the Sheriff a visit and gave him an ultimatum. She assures Emma that he will take it.

That night, Emma finds comfort in the fact that she will see her husband soon.

~~~

After her visit with the Sheriff, Cora summons Malcolm. She tells him that he needs to finish his job before he leaves. He cannot stay if he values his freedom.

Malcolm meets Milah near the fields of the Booth Estate as she makes her way back home from her visit with the healer. He knows her well. He startles the horse which jumps and throws her off. She lays on the ground grabbing her stomach. "Malcolm, what are you doing?" she hisses.

Malcolm locks eyes with her. "My job." He presses his foot on her stomach.

Understanding dawns on Milah's face. Cora's words. In a perfect world you'd be dead.

"Wait-" she gasps, "the baby, it's a Booth."

Malcolm pauses for a second then resumes his attack. It must be a trick, a last resort for pity.

Once her life is gone he picks her body up and carries it to the horse and heads back to the Estate.

August can't get the blonde girl out of his mind. She has a fire that calls to him. He shakes his head. Last time he thought along the same line his heart got broken.

His thoughts are interrupted when he sees Malcolm walking beside his horse. The horse appears to be carrying a body. As the man gets closer it's easy to see who it is: Milah. He stays away.

Malcolm tells Cora about the mention of a baby. He swears it was a trick, but Cora asks him to get the doctor.

Sadly the doctor confirms the death of both the child and mother. Her grandchild. She's killed her son's child.

Malcolm decides it's his time to leave, Cora had given him his payment. He left, but not before telling her he was going to Port Hook to secure transport on a ship. He asks her to go with him.

~~~

Graham arrives at the Nolan's with a piece of jewelry and news of the doctor, and David informs them of what Emma had told him about Malcolm Peters.

Snow recognizes the piece. It was one she stopped wearing some years back, but it was one of a kind. Brennan had gifted it to her when she announced her pregnancy.

The question was simple: why kidnap Emma?

Who had to gain from her disappearance? Snow keeps wondering. If Emma is correct, Milah makes sense, but would the Booth steward do something like that for her?

The only person with power is Cora and the jewel belonged to her.

Snow remembers how desperate she was to find Emma. She asked Cora for help and in exchange, she wasn't supposed to reveal that Killian was Brennan's son.

That's the only thing that makes sense. Emma also said that she was not meant to be harmed. It was a scare tactic.

Ingrid and Elsa keep Snow company while the men try to get Killian out of prison. Graham had made a comment that Nottingham is not a man to be trusted and that he has heard rumors of people wanting to get rid of him.

Snow wonders if Cora is somehow behind the arrest of her son-in-law. If not Cora, it has to be August. He was the only one angry enough to pull something like this.

~~~Next Day

Emma wakes up earlier than normal to go to the convent. She is nervous and excited. It's thrilling to sneak around to go visit her husband. She wastes no time and dresses quickly and sneaks out before Tink and Rufio wake up. They are taking their job in keeping an eye on her too seriously. They both claim that would be the number one order from Killian. To keep her safe.

She arrives at the Convent soon enough and she is guided to one of the rooms to change. It is odd to be wearing the habit once more. She is sure to put on the veil. She hopes that the Sheriff doesn't notice her. Once they arrive at the prison, Mother Superior tells her to stay in the back so she is not visible.

Sheriff Nottingham greets them as soon as they arrive and he sends one of the guards with them.

The nuns split up and the guard keeps his attention on Mother Superior. She smiles at the man. "My girls are only going to hand out food and blankets. How dangerous can that be?"

The man gives them space. Emma distances herself from the group. She really hopes she is going the right way, something tells her she is. When you love someone you just know.

She walks to the last cell. It is dark and dirty. She approaches the bars. "Killian," she calls out as softly as she can.

The movement from the back of the cell catches her eye. A figure slowly approaches. "Emma, what are you doing here? I asked your father to not bring you."

Emma rolls her eyes. "As you can see, my father didn't bring me, the Lord did. And I don't listen, I never do."

He quirks a brow, and takes her in. She is wearing a nun habit. "Why are you wearing that?"

"The Sheriff didn't allow me to come see you. I had to see you. I needed to know you were alright."

"Love, I just want you to know that I'm innocent. I love you."

"I love you too, I miss you terribly. Tink and Rufio are driving me crazy!" she laughs.

"Yet, you're here without them. I will have words with them."

"No, Killian. This was the only way I could think of to get in here to see you."

"Love, be careful. You need to stick with Tink. I hope this is the last time you sneak away from them. I worry about you."

"I promise I'll take care of myself and I'll wait for your return."

"Emma, you have to consider that my return may not be possible."

"Well, I'm not giving up. No one is. We are getting you home. Cora will help."

"Love-"

"Don't say it-" she raises her hand.

"Sister, Emma. Sister."

"I have to go, but this is not over. I don't care what I have to do."

Killian stares as she walks into the dark hall leading her out.

Bloody hell.

~~~

The men are actively working together to overthrow the Sheriff. Graham had mentioned an old friend wanted to end the Sheriff's reign of terror. His beloved had experienced it first hand. They were tired of the poverty that man pushed upon the lower class. Nottingham is a greedy man but he still has one weakness. Marian Locksley. The one that got away. The one that chose another man. His pride would be the end of him.

Snow decides it's time to confront Cora, her oldest friend, and Cora welcomes Snow with open arms. After all, she does have to deliver the news of Milah's passing.

As soon as they are alone in the office, Snow can't keep quiet any longer. "You had my daughter kidnapped? Why, because of a secret?"

Cora stares at her with wide eyes before she can deny it.

Snow throws the piece of jewelry Hyde had in his possession.

Cora sighs. "I meant the girl no harm. I had to find a way to motivate you into staying quiet. In the end, the secret was revealed regardless."

"My daughter was just a pawn to you. You could have simply asked me to keep quiet."

"Snow, we both know you cannot keep a secret. It was a desperate move. I was just trying to protect my son."

"I may not know Killian that well, but he couldn't care less about your money."

"Please accept my apology. I will make things right. I'm helping Emma get her husband out of prison."

"And you think that makes it alright?"

"I haven't even mentioned your niece's horrible behaviour."

"Oh, Milah will be dealt with."

"Snow," Cora's face changes for a second. "About Milah, I'm afraid she had an accident and she is gone."

"She had an accident?"

"Yes, I was going to send word to you but you arrived."

"What kind of accident? I want to see her, and please don't pretend like you cared for her. You hated her."

"Doctor Whale is going to send a carriage to pick up her body, for now it is in her room."

"I still want to see her," Snow said. "She is my family."

Cora nods and escorts Snow to the room.

Snow gasps as she sees the body of her niece. She is so still and it's so surreal. Milah was full of life and now it's gone. The tears flow. How is she going to tell David?

"I'm really sorry, Snow. You have to believe me. If I had known about the baby, I would have made sure she was taking care of herself."

"Baby?" The one word makes August's presence known. He had been standing silently in the door entrance.

"She was with child?"

"I'm sorry, son. I meant to tell you."

"Did you do this? Did you hurt her to make her pay for her behavior?" Snow asked. "Like you had Emma kidnapped to keep me quiet?"

August turns to his mother. "Oh my god, you had Emma kidnapped? Milah was found by your right-hand man, Malcolm. What have you done?"

"Oh please, son. Get off your high horse. Tell Snow that you had her son-in-law arrested, your brother, all because he had the misfortune of meeting your wife first. And before you try to deny it, I had a talk with the Sheriff and he wouldn't release him when I asked because he thinks he has a better ally, and you're the only one that fits the description."

Snow scoffs. "You two deserve each other. I cannot believe there was a time I considered you both family." Snow storms out.

"I'm nothing like you, Mother." August spits the words like venom as he shakes his head and leaves as well.

Cora stands alone. Port Hook is starting to sound more appealing. Her son is as stubborn as his father. He will not forgive her.

August has never felt more sick. His mother had Emma kidnapped. She kept his brother from him. Yes, he still feels betrayed. Milah, oh how he loved her. She is gone, her and their child. His mother made sure of it. She didn't even deny it. The girl, Tink, had said his actions were beneath Killian. The pirate captain with the dastardly reputation was a better man than him. His brother. He had to make things right. Be the best man he could be and perhaps someday he could have a brother.

~~~

Marian Locksley waits for Sheriff Nottingham. She sits patiently in his office while he is no doubt torturing the inmates.

The Sheriff's surprise is evident when he notices her in his office. "Marian, to what do I owe the pleasure of your company?"

She simply smiles but doesn't respond.

"Does your husband know you are here?"

"Yes, Robin knows I'm here. Now the reason for my visit is simple. I'm here to tell you that you're out. You are no longer Sheriff of Misthaven."

"Oh Marian, you have no power to do so."

"Keith Nottingham, did you really think no one knew of your disgusting indiscretions? How you take advantage of all the women that walk through your door? These women are so desperate to see their husbands freed, they are willing to do anything. They share your bed in exchange for their husbands' freedom and in order to keep their secrets, you blackmail them to continue. Let me tell you, it wasn't unnoticed."

He looks at her with sheer hatred. "You know, you are not as desirable as you once were. The years have not been kind to you. I've shared my bed with women who are breathtakingly beautiful like you once were. Now you are only an old hag."

"Yes, the years have not gone unnoticed, but those years? I would not trade them for one second with you. Now tell me, what deal did you make to get your hands on Captain Jones?"

"That doesn't concern you."

She pulls out a pistol and aims it towards him. "Actually, it does, because he helps the people. The orphans and all the people you like to step on. Why do you think you never had any proof to arrest him?"

"Guards!" he calls out.

"I'm sorry, no one is coming to save you. They're not your men."

The pistol goes off and from that distance, it is a fatal shot.

In the end, many changes came.

Killian was freed upon the death of Sheriff Nottingham, and August Booth confirmed to the town that the charges weren't valid. Killian was once again home with his beloved wife. Growing up an orphan had made him believe he would never have a family of his own. But now he has a wife he adores. Family and friends he never thought were possible. And, he was not the only one that found a family.

Killian and August were able to move past their issues. With Milah's death, Killian's brother was able to see past his anger and remorse set in. After realizing the depth of his treacherous behavior and making amends, he eventually found a surprising match with Tink.

Rufio was welcomed as an addition to the Jones crew. In fact, Captain Jones had taken Rufio under his wing and is teaching him how to sail.

Cora had found her way to Port Hook just in time to board the ship with Malcolm Peters. The two were never seen again. Then again, the ship never made another port.

Misthaven found a new Sheriff, one that was honorable, Captain Nemo. He'd fallen in love with the small town and never left.

Archie and Ingrid fell in love. Liam and Elsa moved to Misthaven and live a few houses from them. Graham too decided to give up his lonely life on the outskirts of Golden Cove and moved back to Misthaven. Eventually, his old friend Snow introduced him to the woman who would become his wife.

There's also one more addition that is coming in a few months…

Blonde hair dances in the salty sea wind. A small hand gently caresses a swollen belly. The woman's glowing smile gets bigger as she sees the sails of her beloved's ship fast approaching. "Your papa is home, little bean."

This is their happy beginning.

@hookedonapirate @kmomof4 @searchingwardrobes @seriouslyhooked@profdanglaisstuff @let-it-raines @revanmeetra87@snowbellewells@hollyethecurious@kymbersmith-90@branlovestowrite@thejollyroger-writer@shireness-says​@ilovemesomekillianjones​@thisonesatellite@thesschesthair@winterbythesea@stahlop@resident-of-storybrooke​@superchocovian@lfh1226-linda@artistic-writer​@thislassishooked@shardminds@winterbaby89@xhookswenchx@ultraluckycatnd@gingerchangeling@laschatzi@wellhellotragic@xemmaloveskillianx@courtorderedcake@pirateherokillian@optomisticgirl@darkcolinodonorgasm@sherlockianwhovian @andiirivera @djlbg @nikkiemms @jennjenn615 @scientificapricot @officerrogers @imlaxdris71 @therealstartraveller776 @kday426​

[nelllraiser]

hotel jared | blanche, nell, & jared

LOCATION: nell’s greenhouse. PARTIES: @harlowhaunted, @nelllraiser, and @themidnightfarmer​. SUMMARY: jared appears in desperate need of shampoo and gets more than he bargained for. 

For once, Nell and Blanche were asleep at a reasonable hour. Though...it was more likely to be a nap more than anything else. Both of them were passed out in the bed Blanche had put into the greenhouse, wrapped in blankets with Iago draped over the both of them. But then— there was a familiar little ping on Nell’s wrist where her bracelet was always worn, the one that was connected to the perimeter spell, and acted as a house key. It woke her with a start, her heart already racing in anticipation. What if it was him? Was Montgomery back to finish the job? Her still blurry eyes saw the figure approaching in the darkness, unable to make out anything other than the vague shape of a man. She didn’t even bother to see if Blanche was awake yet, sitting up with a start as a hand filled with magic burst forth from her. It was the same spell she’d used on Kaden, summoning ropes from seemingly thin air to wrap around the victim from shoulders to ankles, the bindings tight as they shackled legs together, and arms to the sides. Her voice was rough with sleep when she spoke, but it was still filled with her iron determination and protective nature, nearly a growl. “Don’t come any closer.” 

The next person that told Blanche she needed a nap was going to get a very angry ‘I DID TAKE A NAP’ screamed into their face. She had dozed off, curled up next to Nell with Iago, when Bea’s bracelet pinged. It was hard to get used to that. Blanche stirred, a low groan leaving her before she jolted awake fully. Fuck. Someone had crossed the property line. Thinking along the same lines as Nell, she swung her legs off the bed, ignoring Iago’s wine as she snatched her taser lying on top of her bag, ripping the safety cable out as Nell bound the intruder. A pillow soared threw the air, bouncing off the man’s body as she fumbled for the light switch so they could see what they’re doing. “Listen here, dickwad -” Blanche flicked the lights on brandishing the taser threateningly. “You’re not gunna - oh.” Iago trotted past Nell to go say hello, unbothered by the man’s intrusion. “.... Whoops.”

It was not his smartest move he would admit to himself later. But arriving at the Vural house had never been this treacherous before in his defence. Jared had seen no life in the house and he’d remembered that Nell had mentioned the greenhouse. He’d only just turned his body in that direction when the ropes spouted from thin air and wrapped him up so tightly he couldn’t take even an inch of a step further. He was knocked a little off balance when a soft object hit his chest but he stayed standing as the lights flickered on. Jared squinted at the two standing there and then down at iago. Unable to hold his hands up in surrender, he instead tipped himself backwards and let his ass hit the floor. Eye level with the Baku as it moved forward to greet him. “Bad time?”

Nell squinted against the light for a moment, blinking in confusion as the man came into focus. “Jared?” Her voice was still laced with that groggy quality, trying to make sense of the world. That must have been why it took her a second longer to remember the ropes she’d cast. “Oh shit- sorry.” A snap of her fingers, and the ropes were no more. Still, she couldn’t help the little chuckle of amusement as he seemed to simply accept his fate, sitting there on the ground of the greenhouse. “Sir, have you heard of texting?” she tried to joke. “The Charlie’s Angels were ready to take you out,” Nell teased. “And not on a fun date.” She glanced at Blanche, making sure she was also alright. “Iago likes him, doesn't she? That makes sense. The pillow was impressive, though. I think that would have taken a lesser man down.”

Blanche rubbed the back of her neck sheepishly. “Sorry Jared,” Blanche said, before glancing at Nell. “Hey, I was ready to tase the crap out of him too!” As if to prove her point, she waved the taser in the air, before quickly putting the safety pin back in it before someone actually got hurt. Well, this was a mild disaster. At least the only true casualty had been her pillow. She would have to do laundry again after it bounced off him hit the ground. Iago was happy enough to lean against Jared. “Iago does like him, we should have known.” She put the taser back down on her bag concealing a yawn behind her hand. “So, uh, what do we owe this wake up call? The moon doesn’t have an eyeball on it, does it? Because I swear to god, I cannot handle that right now.”

As the girls argued back and forward about how they were going to take him out, Jared reached out and gave Iago a few gentle pats now that his arms were free. He stayed on the floor for a moment just listening to them before giving a sheepish smile. “I have heard of texting, but I’d already left the house by the time I realized and this was a time sensitive mission. But no the moon is NOT also an eyeball so we’re all good there.” he then grew rather sheepish for a moment. “Came to steal shampoo.” he tells the two girls before the thought of the pillow truly hits him and he looks behind them at the bed. “Are you two… staying in here full time?”

Nell considered her own pillow carefully as Blanche spoke of tasers before playfully launching it at Jared. “I wanted to try- it looked like it was fun. And I know you were about to lay down the law.” A little smirk came over Nell before she teased, “Time sensitive. Has it been that long without shampoo? You’re gross. Why are you stealing shampoo, though?” Then it was her turn to be sheepish as she looked around at the bed, as if she was considering making it disappear. But- well- Jared had already seen it. “I mean- yes? Mostly? But that’s okay! Right, Blanche?” The house was still too littered with memories of Bea, and the greenhouse felt much safer. 

Jared was here to steal shampoo? Blanche didn’t have long to feel confused, though, before Jared asked about if they were staying in the greenhouse full time. The greenhouse was Nell’s closet - this was where Nell felt safe right now after Bea’s death, and who was she to say try and drag Nell back into the house that was full of painful memories. She wouldn’t leave her alone, how could she leave her best friend alone? She would stay in silent solidarity until things got all better again. Blanche nodded. “Uh, yeah. I put the bed frame together myself.” With some help from the internet and Nell. Surprisingly, dragging the mattress and the box spring downstairs had been the easy part of it. “It’s alright. The sheets and comforter are new too.” Was she being defensive right now? Shit. She was being defensive right now. She gave a strained grin. “You know, sleeping next to plants is, like, the new in thing right now.”

“Time sensitive because I just sent the kids to their rooms and I don’t want them sneaking out while I’m gone.” He countered, not really paying much attention to his own reasons for being there anymore. “Good job.” he said genuinely if very distractedly to Blanche about her building the bed in there. He gave so little thought to the words before they came out of his mouth. “You should both come stay with me.” There was a good reason not to be in the house clearly, since the both of them were out here, he himself couldn’t really imagine being inside the place at the moment either. But as much as they’d say it was okay, living in a greenhouse wasn’t really the best option. And the words were out of his mouth and he was not taking them back. “Everything under one roof, your own beds, your own rooms. You should both move in.”

Nell’s arms crossed stubbornly, realizing he must be rather one track minded at the moment if he wasn’t paying attention to the pillow she’d thrown in addition to ignoring her questions about shampoo. “But why do you need the shampoo?” she repeated, never one to back down. “It’s true, though. Everyone’s sleeping next to plants these days. Me, Blanche, The Jolly Green Giant...Oprah- probably.” Then she was blinking in surprise once again, not entirely processing what Jared had said. But when she had, excitement was coloring her voice. “What? Like- in the farmhouse?” Normally Nell would have agreed in a heartbeat, but she wasn’t sure of Blanche’s opinion on the matter. After all, she still had the mansion with Nora and Remmy. But Nell also knew that the greenhouse had become something of a safe space for the girl. She couldn't leave her without it. “What do you think, Blanche?”

It was late and she was tired because Blanche wasn’t processing what Jared had said properly at first. She looked between the two, confused, and she realized that Jared and Nell could probably see the steam coming out of her ears. Stay with Jared? Nell liked that idea. She clearly wanted to go. “Okay,” Blanche found herself saying. She rubbed the back of her neck, and  quietly wondered if that meant she was going to be cockblocking if she went, but decided that she didn’t really feel like getting murdered by Nell. She thought of Remmy and Nora - she was really only home during the day now. Nora had told the ghosts to stay out of her way, but she could still feel them there… It was better now, though. But Nell still needed her, and if Blanche was being completely honest with herself, she still needed Nell too. “I can stay for a little bit, yeah.” What difference did it make anyway? The greenhouse versus the farmhouse. And it would probably be far more comfortable than sleeping in the greenhouse anyway. “Are you sure you don’t mind me going too?” Blanche asked, suddenly, looking at Jared. They had only just stopped talking about the weather. Her temporarily crashing could be weird. “And Iago?”

“I’m gonna be strapped for cash for the month, unless I can flog something. Found out I was running low on some things a little too late. Figured you’d sub me in exchange for being invited for when calving season starts.” Jared looked between the two and nodded. “Yeah in the farmhouse.” and then waited for Blanche like Nell was. It was maybe an odd invite for her, considering they’d only just gotten the deeper understanding of each other that Nell and Jared had shared for seven years or so, but he didn’t retract it. They were both living in the greenhouse, they both needed a place to go. Somewhere with hopefully better memories or even just a neutral space, and he could provide. He had ample room for all of them. “Everyone’s invited.” he says seriously, giving Iago a few more hearty pats before finally getting to his feet and lifting the two thrown pillows into his arms. “You can come to stay a little while, or you can come to stay for more than that. I have so much spare house it’s unreal. No house rules, just a few farm things we’d need to talk about. Mostly safety stuff Nells knows already.” His eyes found Nells and he smiled before looking back to Blanche. “What do you say? We can go now, give you a better night's sleep since I ruined it?”

“Yeah...Yeah, I could do that!” Nell agreed readily, as if she wouldn’t have given him whatever he needed in a heartbeat in the first place. “The calves!” Her excitement was nearly palpable, it having been quite some time since she’d been around for the season. “Blanche, the calves are cute.” She was doing her best to seem neutral, not wanting Blanche to feel pressured or obligated, but Nell was also unable to contain herself when calves were mentioned. Jared was right about the safety situation, though. Thankfully, Blanche had been coming into her own with the sparring they’d been working on, as well as her telekinesis. Of course, Nell would prefer Blanche not have to use that, but it was good to know she wouldn’t be defenseless. And the thought of having two of her best friends under one roof? Even if it was temporary? That was more than enough to bring a bright grin to her lips. “I could grab the stuff- get Greg and Taki ready to go, too.” Taki who had been sleeping for the entirety of this conversation suddenly decided to crack open his fiery eyes, considering Jared with his always judgemental gaze. “If you want- I mean,” she said, looking to Blanche again.

“We can sub you for whatever you need,” Blanche agreed, looking between the two. Nell seemed so excited, especially about the calves. It made Blanche smile. She could stay for the calving season. That would be fun. And she truly didn’t mind. Her opinion of Jared was always good, even if she could never think of anything to say to him before the other day when she burst out about the supernatural, but now it was only improving. He was kind, clearly, and he just wanted to make Nell feel better. She nodded to Nell. “Yeah, yeah, I want to go. That sounds like it’ll be a lot of fun, with the kids and what not,” she shot as she grinned at Nell. “I like calves too. They are cute. But - uh, I’ve never really lived on a farm before, I don’t really know how to milk a cow. Is that okay?” Blanche was suddenly concerned that she was going to be more of a nuisance than she was going to be helpful. “And Iago’s really clean, honestly! She just, uh, may want to snuggle at odd hours, but I’m sure that’ll be okay... Right?” Blanche said brightly, fighting back another yawn.

Jared grinned when Blanche said she was willing to come. This smile only to be replaced by one of very mild horror at the thought of Blanche trying to milk anything on the farm. “Oh haha we’re not a dairy. First rule of the farm, Nell knows all too well. Just don’t really get close to anything. If possible, take the path furthest from the kids unless I’m around.” He explained with a nervous laugh. “That’s the main one. But we can talk particulars later.” He gave Iago a smile and shot Taki a familiar respectful nod. “Everyones invited as they are. Seriously, no house rules. It’s just been me at home and I’m not worried about any of that.” The stifled yawn caught Jareds attention and he jerked a thumb over his shoulder. “I can go and you can both get some more sleep until later this morning. Or you could both get in the truck and we can go snooze at the house and sort the rest out later?”

The thought of Blanche trying to milk anything was….truly horrifying, but also amusing that she’d asked in the first place. So a soft smile found its way to Nell, as she finally stood from the bed, Taki meowing in objection as she picked up one of the blankets to wrap it around her shoulders. She was about to say that they could start now, wide-awake not that her excitement had gotten the best of her, and always ready to take off with any idea that came her way. But it was impossible to ignore Blanche’s yawn, so she brought herself back to Earth, remembering how often she requested her friend to sleep. “Later is good,” Nell affirmed with a nod. Meanwhile, Taki rose from the bed to brush up affectionately against Iago, curling his tail around the Baku, still making eye contact with Jared as if to say you wish this were you. Nell dipped forward to scoop the Ovinikk up in her arms, already beginning to try and get a feel for where Greg was so that she might get him to the truck as well. “You’re sure about this...right Blanche? And you too, Jared? You guys don’t have to do this.”

Blanche was trying to figure out the logistics in her head, but all that was in her head right now was something akin to a flaming dumpster. Oh god, maybe she really did need sleep. She felt a little bad because Nell was clearly bright eyed and bushy tailed and ready to go, but the thought of shutting off the lights in the greenhouse and getting a few more hours of sleep was a little more attractive. Surely after she got drunk the night before, Morgan and everyone else who told her she needed a nap would can it, right? Regan wouldn’t have to threaten to send Adam after her, thought that thought was still really funny to her. Iago whined slightly as Taki was scooped away from her, and went to go nuzzle Jared, she looked at Nell and nodded, covering her mouth as she yawned again. “I’m cool with it,” she affirmed, glancing at Jared. “So long as he is. And he’s serious that I don’t have to milk anything.” She was starting to wonder though, farm animals couldn’t really be that dangerous, could they? Then again, knowing her luck, she would probably be the one to be mauled by a cow.

“No milking.” Jared repeated firmly before getting a little excited himself. There were going to be people in the house. Actual talking people. Not just his animals when he left a door open. It would take a lot of talking through later, and an awful lot of reshuffling of the house (or rather just himself) but it’d work out great in his opinion. So he herded the girls towards the truck, snatching their blankets from the bed to go along with the pillows he was still holding. Ushering them into the backseat he pushed the pillows in and threw the blankets over their knees. He might be fully awake and in clothes, but the girls had been asleep. They would be more likely to catch a chill. Once they were in he hopped into the driver's seat and looked back at them. “Anything last second or can it all be grabbed later today?”

It suddenly occurred to Nell that...she’d been assuming Jared had mentioned the true nature of the farm when he and Blanche had their share-fest. As she sat there, comfortably burrito’d in the blankets, she emerged from the cocoon for a moment to say, “Jared did you...tell Blanche about the...farm?” Certainly he’d know what she meant, right? But she did a quick, mental check as Jared asked if there was anything else they’d need. Taki was warm in her lap, and she’d Summon Greg once they were at the farm. It was easier than making sure he stood still in a truck, anyway. “You’ve got everything though, right?” she asked Blanche. “Iago’s snug?”

Blanche let herself be herded to Jared’s truck, only semi aware that this was how people got kidnapped. But, like, Nell trusted Jared, so it was fine. Well, probably, at least. She shuffled into the back seat, Iago following and wedging herself into the most comfy position on top of her and half on Nell. “‘M snsdjg,” Blanche said unintelligibly. Her head lulled to the side, gently against the truck, and she was almost out. Iago followed suit, curling up into Blanche with a loud sigh, nuzzling her.  “D’you think …. Grocery…” And then she was out for good. Her train of thought would return in the morning, and Blanche would figure it out then. Now it was time to appease everyone who had told her to sleep. 

[elisaphoenix13]

Safety Tempts Fate

It all started with Rhodey. He got up from the couch to grab a drink from the fridge, opened the door, stared for a little while, then quietly closed it after grabbing a bottle of beer. He took a few more seconds in the kitchen before returning to the living room but no one thought anything of it. Stephen was next. He went into the kitchen to make lunch for everyone, opened the refrigerator door, let out a long suffering sigh, but grabbed what he needed and shut the door again.

All three kids were completely unperturbed by the reactions from the kitchen and it immediately had Tony suspicious. Stephen didn't do his Mom Sigh unless it pertained to them after all. The engineer didn't do anything until after Wanda opened the fridge and snickered, and he stood from the couch to go into the kitchen himself. Wanda had already closed the fridge and moved on to help Stephen with lunch, so when Tony opened the fridge and looked inside, he immediately burst into laughter.

There were googly eyes on everything. Not only that but one of the kids staged a murder scene on one of the shelves with a couple of the beers and an orange cut in half. Tony was relatively positive that was Harley's idea.

"You kids need a hobby." Tony says after his laughter subsides and he closes the door to return to the living room and his previous spot on the couch.

"We do have hobbies." Peter replies as he throws down an Uno card.

"Was the murder scene necessary?" The engineer asks and watches the boys look at their sister as she innocently places her own Uno card down.

"That was actually Dia's idea." Harley says. "She has a dark sense of humor."

Tony narrows his eyes. "I don't believe you."

Cassie snorts as she pulls a card. "Who do you think came up with the idea to replace the cream in the oreos with toothpaste?"

Peter blanched. "That was Dia?! I was puking for the rest of the day!"

So Diana filled the cookies with mint toothpaste. It was one of the few things mint flavored or smell that was allowed on the family floor. Peter's spider DNA had the poor boy sick as a dog whenever he consumed anything with mint, and he had hated the fact when he first discovered he couldn't eat mint. He loved mint before the bite. It was definitely a sacrifice he was forced to make.

"To be fair, we tried to warn you." Cassie says and Peter opens his mouth to say something, but he immediately snaps it shut and whips his head around to look at a nearby window. Tony catches the action and immediately taps his housing unit, his suit forming around him, and covers Cassie and Diana.

"STEPHEN! SHIELD!"

Gunfire follows the billionaires shout immediately after, and everyone ducks and takes cover as Stephen drops everything to conjure a shield around the tower. Once checking that Cassie and Diana are unharmed, Tony turns to fly out of the destroyed window and toward one of the armed helicopters. He fires his repulsors at the base of the blades just as pillars of light shoot out of the ground and direct the falling chopper away from populated areas. More gunfire comes through the comm and Tony turns away from the second helicopter as Quill destroys it, to find more attackers in the tower.

"Harley! Peter! Get the girls out!" Tony commands and watches with relief when Rescue and Spiderman escape the tower with Diana and Cassie.

He was grateful Clint and his family were back at their farm or there would have been more vulnerable people to take care of. The next thing that caught his attention was the flickering shield around the building. If it flickered, it meant that Stephen was hurt and having trouble keeping his focus. Then it fell completely seconds later.

"Tony! Mom is down!" Natasha confirms over the comm and he curses colorfully in Italian as he flies back into the tower and shoots a repulsor at the attacker closest to the fallen sorcerer.

Unsurprisingly, their attackers were Hydra. They never believed they got rid of them because they always seemed to come out of the woodwork like cockroaches. It was bold of them to attack directly though, and definitely new. Harley and Peter would go to one of the safe houses and stay to protect the girls until either Tony or Stephen called and gave them the okay that it was safe to return, or they joined them. They were thorough about emergency protocols in case the tower was attacked.

Tony kneels next to Stephen and applies pressure to the major gunshot wounds, and Wanda keeps her own magical shield up to protect them. More bullets from a third chopper scatter through the tower and Tony looks around for the direction it's coming from until he finds it outside the window across from the counter they're hiding behind.

"Quill, North side! Banner, you better not be jolly green right now! My wife needs help!"

"So do Sam and Steve! How bad is it?" Bruce asks over the comm.

"Friday, scan Stephen."

"The doctor needs immediate medical attention. His vitals are dropping rapidly." Friday says with worry.

"Shit. Tell me what I can do to stabilize him until Bruce can get up here."

His AI instructs him to use his medicated spray as well as compression webs (something Tony installed into his, Stephen's, and Harley's suits) and then looks next to him at Wanda.

"Protect him."

She nods. "I got him."

"Quill! On me! We're about to light up these cult wannabes."

Tony flies back outside of the tower, and asks FRIDAY to target all non friendlies as Quill joins him. Once he locks on, he opens the back of his suit to safely redirect the celestials powers, something he had to make a small modification to since it was originally for Thor's lightning. Now the suit could use both lightning and literal light.

"Don't hold back Porcupine."

Quill sends his celestial light into Tony's suit and it comes out in smaller beams that hone in on the remaining, standing Hydra agents. Once the last man falls, Tony and Quill fly back into the tower and the billionaire asks Scott, Natasha, and Bucky to clean up. Tony returns to Stephen's side as bodies get dragged away and he looks around for Bruce.

"Is Banner still helping Sam and Steve?!"

"Tony…" Stephen whispers and winces when he tries to move.

"Hey, Mama Bear. Try not to move. Bruce will be here soon...unless you can heal yourself?" Tony asks hopefully but his shoulders slump when the sorcerer shakes his head minutely.

"Can't focus."

"Shit."

There was too much blood. The compression webs were helping, but it didn't look like Bruce would be arriving in time to help Stephen. Tony's worry was now through the roof. Even Wanda focused on Stephen's injuries with her magic and was a huge help, but also temporary. Then he looked at Quill. The man was still discovering what his powers were capable of, and Tony wondered if he could redirect his healing abilities to Stephen.

"Porcupine...your powers heal you right?"

"To an extent." Quill affirms.

"Do you think you can turn that focus on Stephen?"

"...I don't know. I don't want to hurt him anymore."

"At this rate he'll die!" Tony shouts. "He's losing too much blood! At least try!"

"Fuck alright! Fine!"

Quill kneels next to Stephen and releases a heavy huff before willing the light into his hands and placing them over Stephen's major wounds. He focuses on the healing factor and attempts to redirect it toward Stephen and his eyes widen when he feels the sorcerer's wound knit themselves closed. When he finishes, he pulls his hands away and both he and Tony stare in wonderment at the healed skin.

"First, holy crap, I didn't know I could do that. Second, I need to go sleep for a couple of days."

Tony looks up from Stephen and curses. "Shit. The kids. Friday-"

"Unharmed at a safehouse. They weren't followed." She interrupts immediately. "The doctor is stable but needs rest."

"Okay. There's no way it will be here. Well go to the safe houses. Friday, call my usual contractors and ask them to make repairs to the tower. Tell the team to stay at the safe houses until the tower is repaired." Tony says as he taps his housing unit and his suit crawls back into it and FRIDAY confirms his commands in his comm piece. "Any cars survive the attack?"

"The garage was untouched Boss."

"Give temporary authorization to the team to use the cars. Quill, help me with Mama Bear."

Stephen groans quietly when Quill helps him to his feet as gently as possible, and both he and Tony each throw one of his arms around their shoulders. Thankfully, the elevator was safe to ride, so they took it down to the garage and walked over to one of the cars, to carefully lay Stephen down in the backseat. Tony walks around to the driver side and slides in as Quill gets into the passenger, and the engineer gives him a look.

"I expected you to come to the safehouse with us, but are you really leaving the flea behind?"

"It figures you would come up with a new nickname." Scott's voice responds and Tony rolls his eyes as he starts the car and peels out of the garage.

"Is there space for both of our families at this safe house?" Quill asks.

"Porcupine, look at me, and then rethink your question."

"Nevermind." The celestial says, and the rest of the drive goes by in silence.

When they arrive at the safehouse, it was clear why Tony told Quill to think about it. The style wasn't much different from the tower. It was smaller but there were enough rooms to house all eight of them. One for each couple, one for the boys, and one for the girls. One of those rooms, Tony and Quill dragged Stephen into and got him into bed as the kids rushed in to check on their Mama Bear. Scott had grown back to normal in the meantime and started making a late lunch/early dinner that was so rudely interrupted by Hydra, and the kids curl up with Stephen once they get his okay. He slept most of the time, but having the kids around was comforting for the short times he was awake. They just watched movies to keep themselves entertained until Tony called them into the kitchen to eat. Stephen's eyes slowly open when the kids climb off the bed and he sits up and follows them at a slower pace until Quill stops him halfway down the hall.

"We'll bring you your food. Get back in bed."

"I'm well enough to join the rest of you." Stephen says quietly and Tony motions Quill away to take his place.

"At least sit on the couch okay?" Stephen nods and his husband helps him to the couch where Scott hands him his dinner.

"Mommy? Are you okay?" Diana asks.

"I'm fine. Just need some food and rest." Stephen mumbles and Tony sits next to him.

"And a little extra attention and TLC from Dad."

"Just for clarification," Harley starts. "These walls are not sound proof."

A disappointed sigh comes from both Scott and Quill, and the three older kids make a face.

"Tough it out for a week. Two at the most." Tony says. "That's how long it will take to fix the tower."

Quill's eyes light up mischievously and he looks at Scott. "Dude! You can shrink us-"

"Absolutely not!" Stephen says tiredly but firmly. Mama Bear always got the last word after all.

[alpxcamin]

More Than Just a Job

Requested?: nope~

Words: 5.2k

Group: Stray Kids

Member(s): Jeongin (feat. JYP lmao)

A/n: Omg this has been in my drafts for like 3 months wtf...Also, if the words are bolded, it means you’re speaking english lol and also a warning, this is kind of dramatic?? Idk I hope you enjoy this tho!! This was supposed to be one fic, but it was getting too long so I decided to chop it lmao. Next parts are coming soon ^^

Part 1 || Part 2

“Jeongin!”

“Ah, Miss y/n, I’m here!”

You turned around, scowling at the frantic boy. He was dressed in his usual white button-up shirt, paired with a long black tie, black dress pants, and black leather shoes. He was slightly hunched and a little messy, but still acceptable. His half-slicked back hair framed his fox-like facial features showed slight fatigue.

“Why are you late? You’ve never been late,” you hissed, making the Jeongin shrink into himself.

“I’m so sorry, Miss. I woke up late today. I have no excuse,” he gulped, fixing his hair.

“I’ll excuse you this time and this one time only. You’ve never been late before so I’ll let you off the hook. If you’re ever late again,” you stared coldly into his eyes, “You’re fired.”

“Yes, ma’am. I apologize,” Jeongin bows before scuttling to his small desk on the side of the room.

You sigh and walk towards your own desk before plopping into your comfortable swivel chair. You watched Jeongin as he set his things down by his desk and got back up and left the room. Jeongin was your personal assistant and you had to admit that he was the best you’ve ever had. You’re the youngest CEO, having graduated three years early, and have won multiple awards for your amazing work.

You became busy quickly and at the youthful age of only eighteen, you still were not able to handle all the stress by yourself. So, you began searching for someone to aid you with your work. You’ve looked and looked and worked with a couple of people, but they weren’t the right fit. Your life became drastically less stressful and you felt less pressure as soon as you met Jeongin.

He was the same age as you, but still in college. Now, it has been four years since you’ve started working with Jeongin. It’s his last year in college now so you’re hoping he would become more available after he graduates.

You stare down blankly at the paperwork in front of you, contemplating on whether you should start them now or hand them off to Jeongin to finish. Just then, the door creaks open and you look up. Jeongin shuffles in with a small tray of snacks and a fresh cup of steaming coffee, as usual.

“Here you are, Miss,” Jeongin sets the tray down on your table, “The coffee is still hot. You should wait a while.”

“Thank you,” you nod, dwelling in the scent of fresh coffee and sweet cookies.

“Oh, should I take the paperwork, Miss?” Jeongin asks, noticing the pile of papers you were previously staring at.

“Sure, thanks,” you shrug, handing him the stack.

You silently munched on the cookies and drank the coffee as you watched Jeongin start on the paperwork. To say he was a hard worker was an understatement and you felt bad for being so harsh on him. He has amazing work ethics, always polite, and he always followed your orders all the way down to the smallest details. He always had a smile on his face despite all the yelling, stress, and work he had to deal with. You really admired him, so as his boss, you believed that it was best to let him face challenges to help him grow.

Jeongin suddenly looks up, catching you staring at him. He gives you a sweet, dimpled smile before setting down his pen and getting up. He made his way over to your desk and took the empty tray.

“Would you like me to refill your cup?” he points to the empty cup in your hands.

“It’s alright. Just finish the paperwork by lunch. We have a meeting after,” you hand him the cup before turning back around to look for some files.

After Jeongin came back, the two of you worked in comfortable silence. Jeongin knew mornings just weren’t your thing so he didn’t bother you too much. It was your routine. You and Jeongin would come into the office, he’d get you some snacks and the two of you worked silently. Then, after lunch, the two of you would attend meetings if there were any and then get back to work, but Jeongin would speak up more. Finally, at the end of the day, Jeongin would drive you back home before heading for his night classes.

Occasionally, he would have to sign out in the middle of the day if his school schedule conflicted with his work schedule. You would reluctantly let him go, but you understood that he had to graduate.

Before you knew it, it was already noon. You looked up from your laptop and your eyes drifted to Jeongin, who was scribbling away. You got up and walked up to his desk.

“Have you finished?” you look down at what he was writing.

“I’m almost done. I’ll finish this last sheet and go to lunch,” Jeongin smiled up at you.

“Good. This meeting is going to be draining,” you roll your eyes at the thought of who you were going to work with today.

“Of course. Have a nice lunch, Miss,” Jeongin waves as you left the room.

---

“Jeongin. Do you have all the paperwork?” you ask as you walk steadily towards the meeting room.

Jeongin trailed behind you, “Yes, I have the paperwork and a couple of additional files.”

“Good. You know how this man is. Disgusting,” you seeth, stopping in front of the door.

You take a deep breath before opening the door. You put on a fake smile, showing off your pearly white teeth. The jolly, old man in front of you let out a bellowing laugh and you cringed internally. You had worked with him quite a few times and you had come to learn that he was extremely touchy. Jeongin has had to intervene many times. Unfortunately for you, he was good friends with your deceased parents and so naturally, your parents had hoped that you would work closely with him. You only agreed because your parents asked you to. You respected them and their decisions so you reluctantly complied.

“Y/n, good to see you again, love,” the middle-aged man spread his arms wide open for a hug.

“Please, do not call me ‘love’, Mister Park. I’ve told you many times,” you stepped back a little and reached for his hand for a quick shake.

“Aww come on, we’ve worked together for such a long time. Your parents and I were close anyway,” he shrugs before taking a seat on one of the ends of the long table.

You sat down on the opposite end and Jeongin sat next to you. The meeting officially began and you internally groaned. It would be another two hours of your life wasted. Mr. Park had never been too interesting and you always quietly dozed off whenever he was talking. Luckily, Jeongin always took down notes and spoke for you whenever you didn’t feel like interacting.

“Alright, what do you have to say this time,” you sigh, your fingers held up your head by your temple.

“I think you’re going to like this one,” Mr. Park chuckled.

“You say that every time,” you discreetly rolled your eyes. You heard Jeongin let out the slightest giggle next to you. He must have seen it.

“No, but really. This time, it’s big,” Mr. Park shakes his head, leaning forward.

You leaned back,” Then tell me.”

Mr. Park began his long, boring speech and you completely tuned him out. You blankly stared at the clock right above his head. In the middle of his rambling, he suddenly got up and you shook yourself awake a little.

“You’re going to go on a business trip to endorse my newest product!” Mr. Park practically yells.

“Pardon?” you slam down on the table, standing up as well.

“We’re sending you to tour the U.S. to endorse my new product. You’ll be out and about for a whole month. Isn’t that exciting? You young people love traveling, huh,” Mr. Park laughs, clapping for himself.

You looked in disbelief at the jovial man. You had never liked moving around and being an introverted person, traveling and being with people always drained you. You were also never really one to be the center of attention, despite being the CEO. You always had Jeongin present the latest products or do the talking. Being front and center made you feel weak and powerless. You never liked the feeling of people staring at you, waiting for you to mess up or belittling you.

“Sir, would you please elaborate?” Jeongin asks, placing a comforting hand on yours.

You weakly collapsed back into your chair. Your heart pounded rapidly in your chest and you give Jeongin a quick glance. He simply smiles warmly your way and patting your hands a few times, trying to calm you down.

“Of course, Mister Yang. Well, my new product is in need of some promoting. A beautiful, young lady like y/n would be great for marketing,” Mr. Park smirks.

“It’s not even my product. Why can’t you find someone else from your company to do it?” you scoff.

“This is a partnership, y/n. You must do some kind of work,” Mr. Park snorts as if it were obvious, “Besides, you kind of owe me this since your parents asked you to work for me.”

“Work with you, Mister Park,” you shake your head, trying to regain your composure, “I don’t work for you.”

“Sure, whatever. Anyway, we’ve already booked flights and hotels so you have to go. Traveling starts next week,” Mr. Park replies nonchalantly.

“Mister Park, I’m not sure that’s enough time to prepare for everything,” Jeongin looks at you worriedly.

“Ayy, don’t worry about it, kiddo. You children can adapt quickly,” Mr. Park’s cocky voice drifts off as he leaves the room.

As soon as the door shuts behind him and his employees, you dropped your head down to the table, clutching it with your arms. You let out a small groan. You could feel your tears bubbling in your eyes, but you refused to cry.

“Miss y/n...we’ll get through this. I’m here to help,” you felt Jongin's large hands rest on your back, rubbing it softly.

You sat up and looked at him wearily. His hand was still making comforting circles on your back. You didn’t want to drag him away from school for two whole months. It would just prolong his days of juggling studying and work.

“Are you sure?” you sniff.

“That’s what you hired me for, isn’t that right?” Jeongin chuckles kindly.

You nodded sadly, “I guess you can be dismissed now, today. I don’t want to do anything so please just take me home.”

“Of course. Let’s go,” Jeongin nods, helping you up.

You and Jeongin make your way to his car and he opens the door for you. You slipped in and buckled up. Jeongin soon joins you in his car and begins heading back to your house. It was only two in the afternoon, but you just wanted to sleep for the rest of the day. You rested your head on the window and watched as the colorful city flew past you.

“Jeongin,” you whispered, peeking over at him.

“Yes?” he responded, still looking at the road.

“Are you sure you want to pause school for an entire month...just to help me ‘endorse’ this product?” you guiltily ask.

“Of course. It’s my job to help you, right?” Jeongin glances over at you, smiling.

“Thank you,” you nod, before going back to watching the lively city.

---

You sat in your swivel chair, waiting for Jeongin to arrive. For once, you were dressed in casual clothes in the office. It felt weird, but you reminded yourself that you were leaving soon. You heard a knock before the door creaked and you spun around.

Your eyes widen a little at the sight of your assistant in casual clothing. Jeongin’s hair was down and fluffy. He had on an oversized, canary yellow hoodie paired with comfortable denim overalls. In his hand right hand was a medium-sized suitcase and a backpack hung from his left shoulder.

“You look like a minion,” you bluntly tell him, snickering a little. He looked cute though.

“I didn’t even realize that,” Jeongin frets, checking over his outfit.

You laugh a little, causing Jeongin to nervously giggle along. A ‘ding’ from your phone startles both you and Jeongin and you check your phone. The driver sent by Mr. Park had arrived and you sighed. You and Jeongin make your way down to the parking lot of the building.

A large, black van was parked and the driver was waiting for you. He opened the trunk and Jeongin helped you put your luggage in and put his in as well. You left your backpack in the back as well, but Jeongin kept his with him. Jeongin opened the door for you and you hopped in, buckling up right away. Jeongin slid into the seat next to yours and buckled up as well.

The ride to the airport was quiet, but it was a comfortable silence. After an hour drive, you finally reached the airport. The number of people traveling in and out the doors nearly made you faint. Luckily, Jeongin knew how to maneuver through the busy airport and the two of you safely made your way to your gate.

“What’s the schedule today?” you ask, holding your backpack close as you sat nervously, waiting to board the plane.

“Well, we’re going to the west coast, California, first. It takes about fourteen hours to get there. It should be about seven in the evening when we arrive. Mister Park booked a hotel one hour away from the airport. The hotel offers dinner so we could eat there and just rest for the day.” Jeongin informs you.

You simply nod, already dreading the long flight. Soon, first-class flyers were called so you and Jeongin lined up, to board the plane. The woman at the little podium in front of the gate scanned your tickets and you and Jeongin made your way to the plane to find your seats. Jeongin lifted your luggage into the little compartment above your seat and easily slid his in as well.

“Do you want the window or aisle seat?” Jeongin asks, adjusting his backpack.

“Uh, window,” you shrug before shuffling to the seat and sitting down.

You placed your backpack in the little corner between your seat and the seat in front. Luckily, there was a lot of room since you were riding in first class. Jeongin slips into his seat next to yours and slides his backpack underneath his seat.

Soon, all the passengers boarded and the pilot announced that you were lifting off. You had never flown before and to say you were nervous was an understatement. As soon as the flight attendants showed up, you quickly strapped on your seatbelt and pulled on the loose strap so that you were strapped in as tight as possible. Your hands gripped on the armrest so hard that your knuckles turned white. You felt lightheaded when the plane started moving.

“Hey, don’t be scared. You can hold my hand if you want,” Jeongin’s soothing voice breaks you out of your panicked state.

You looked over at Jeongin’s hand before hesitantly accepting his offer. You felt the plane tip upwards and you immediately shut your eyes, tightening your hold on Jeongin’s hand. You felt Jeongin give your hand a light squeeze. Finally, the plane evened out and you opened your eyes, letting out a breath you didn’t even know you were holding.

“Are you okay?” Jeongin asked and you looked over.

“Uh, thanks,” you awkwardly let go of his hand, immediately missing the warmth and comfort of it.

“No problem,” Jeongin smiles.

Throughout the flight, you and Jeongin discussed the plans and different flights. It had already been eight hours into the flight and dinner had just been served. You were beginning to feel drowsy and your head rolled back and forth as you tried to stay awake.

“Miss, are you tired?” Jeongin asked, his voice soft.

You sleepily nodded. Jeongin leaned over and you leaned back, a little shocked at his sudden advancement. He noticed and apologized.

“Uh, you can tilt your chair back if you want. Just press that little button there,” he leaned even closer to point at the button on the inside of your armrest, “And just push back.”

You pushed the button with your thumb and pushed back as instructed. You let out a small squeak of surprise when your seat slammed backward. Jeongin began laughing and you felt your cheeks heat up.

“No need to shove that hard,” Jeongin giggles, helping you adjust your seat.

“We should invest in a private jet. This sucks,” you pout.

“Noted,” Jeongin laughs.

You unbuckle your seatbelt, deciding that it was more comfortable that way. Jeongin soon joined you in leaning his chair back. Soon, your eyelids began getting heavier and heavier and you drifted up into a dreamless sleep.

---

A bright beam of light woke you up. You were a little disorientated, confused as to why you didn’t feel like you were in bed. Blinking, you tried to wake yourself up and you looked down. A rose pink jacket had been draped neatly over your body. You were confused. You didn’t remember having that over you when you fell asleep, much less owning it. You looked over at Jeongin’s seat to ask him, but he wasn’t there.

You sighed and looked out the window. The sky was light blue and the white, fluffy clouds drifted underneath the plane. The bright sun shone through the window, illuminating your lap.

“You’re awake,” a sudden voice makes you jump and turn around.

“Oh, it’s you,” you sigh in relief, placing a hand over your pounding heart.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you,” Jeongin chuckles, “Did you sleep well?”

“I suppose. This seat is nowhere near as comfortable as my bed though,” you complain.

“I can imagine,” Jeongin laughs, sitting back down.

You remembered the jacket still draped over you and you shook it off. Folding it neatly, you held it out to Jeongin, “I assume this is yours.”

“Yeah, you were shivering in your sleep. It gets pretty cold on planes,” Jeongin explains, taking his jacket back.

“Oh, thank you,” you awkwardly nod.

“You only slept for four hours. Can’t sleep?” he asked.

“Four hours? It felt longer,” you frown, “I’m fine though, thanks for asking.”

“Well, we’re landing in two hours, so you can get more rest when we get to the hotel later,” Jeongin says.

“Okay, sounds good. Make sure to give Mister Park a call when we land. I don’t want to deal with him,” you hum, “Tell him ‘thank you’ for paying for the hotel.”

“Of course,” Jeongin agrees.

The two hours passed quickly. You and Jeongin just went over the week’s plans another time before the pilot announced the landing of the plane. You were more than ecstatic to get off and Jeongin chuckled at your enthusiasm.

You practically bolted off the plane as soon as the plane halted, but Jeongin held you back. He reached up and opened the compartment and pulled out your luggage. You watched as he grabbed his own.

His hood had been pulled over his head, leaving only his soft bangs and handsome face exposed. His sleeves slid down as he reached for his luggage and exposed his toned arms. He wet his lips before pulling his luggage out of the compartment, causing his arm muscles to flex. You had to admit, he looked pretty attractive at the moment.

“Alright, we can head out now,” Jeongin turns to you, pulling up the handle from his luggage.

You frantically turned around and began walking, pretending as you hadn’t just been checking him out. You didn’t know what got into you and why Jeongin suddenly looked so attractive. Maybe it was the lack of sleep. Maybe it was seeing him in casual clothes for the first time. Maybe it was spending fourteen continuous hours with him. Of course, you had thought he was handsome before, but you were never really attracted to him. Shaking off these thoughts, you focused on making it out of the bustling airport.

Finally, the two of you made it out to the exit and luckily, the car to pick you up had already arrived. Jeongin loaded both yours and his luggage into the car and the driver set off towards the hotel. On the way, you pulled out a small booklet and handed it to Jeongin.

“Here, study up on your English,” you tell him, "Mister Park may have chosen me to do the promoting, but you’re going to have to at least understand the locals here.”

“Of course. Thank you, Miss,” Jeongin takes the book and immediately begins flipping through it.

“Also, don’t forget to call and thank Mister Park,” you reminded.

“I’ll do that right now, Miss,” Jeongin set the book down and pulled out his phone, searching his contacts.

You stared outside the window, but you were listening in on Jeongin’s conversation with Mr. Park. You felt a little guilty for shoving the call onto Jeongin, but you really didn’t want to deal with that creepy, old man after an uncomfortable fourteen-hour flight.

“Hello, Mister Park. This is Yang Jeongin, Miss y/n’s personal assistant,” Jeongin paused and waited for Mr. Park’s reply, “Yes, we’ve arrived safely, sir. Thank you for booking the hotel for us.”

You looked over at Jeongin and gave him a thumbs up. He gives you his brightest smile, and you turn back to look out the window. You don’t know what’s happening, but you felt yourself blushing at his adorable smile. That’s never happened before.

“Thank you, Mister Park. We will call you later. Goodbye, sir,” Jeongin ended the call and slipped his phone back into his pocket.

During the rest of the car ride, you and Jeongin simply enjoyed each other’s company, well at least you enjoyed it. You were never sure if Jeongin liked you because of the constant, bright smile on his face. He had always been one who could easily mask his annoyance or distraught so you never really knew.

Finally, you reached the hotel and you had to admit, it was quite nice. It was one that you would personally book for vacation if you ever traveled. You and Jeongin waited in the lobby for the bellhops to help with your luggage and to sign in. You watched Jeongin as he marveled at the sight in front of him.

“You seem to like this place,” you chuckle.

“I’ve just never been in such an expensive hotel before,” Jeongin looked around in awe.

“You’ll have to get used to it,” you smile, admiring the boy.

“I guess I will,” Jeongin looks back at you, his eyes sparkling with joy.

“Let’s go check in,” you began walking towards the check-in desk.

“Hello, sir. We’d like to check-in. The reservation was made by Mister Jinyoung Park,” you informed the man in perfect english.

You heard a little gasp from behind you. Turning around, you saw Jeongin who quickly placed his hand over his mouth. You gave him an amused grin before turning back to the employee.

“Here’s your key, Miss. Have a nice night,” the employee handed you the key.

“Thank you,” you examined the key card, “Excuse me. Why is there only one key? We have two people.”

“Sorry, it says here...Mister Park only booked one room,” the man shrugged.

Your mouth dropped open as you stared at the employee’s retreating form. He disappeared behind the staff door and you aggressively turned to face Jeongin who jumped back a little.

“Is there something wrong, Miss y/n?” Jeongin asked, brows furrowing in worry.

“Mister Park…” you hissed under your breath, eyes flaming.

“What happened?” Jeongin inquired.

“That goddamn fool,” you scoffed, a dissatisfied smirk appeared on your face.

Jeongin shivered a little at the sight, “Uh...Miss y/n, you have to tell me what’s wrong so I can help.”

“That oaf booked only one goddamn room!” you roared, shoving the key card in Jeongin’s face. His face flushed and he looked down shyly.

“M-miss y/n, I’m sure it was a mistake,” Jeongin gulped, “We should call him to change it.”

“His cheap ass probably paid for only one room because it was too expensive and he wanted to annoy me. He knows I like my privacy. I’m not going to give him the satisfaction of annoying me,” you fumed, completely ignoring what Jeongin had just said.

Jeongin’s face was now even redder, “A-are you sure, Miss y/n?”

“I’m more than sure,” you smirked, your gaze piercing through Jeongin’s poor soul.

“O-oh, o-okay,” Jeongin choked out.

You stormed away to the elevator, Jeongin meekly following. You angrily pressed the up button and stood there, waiting for the elevator, arms crossed over your chest. Your foot rapidly tapped against the tile floor. Luckily, no one else was in the elevator when it arrived and you and Jeongin stepped in. Jeongin pressed the button to the penthouse and you pouted all the way to the top.

“Are you really sure, Miss y/n?” Jeongin hesitated as the two of you reached the room door.

“I’m sure, Jeongin,” you hissed, snatching the key from his hands and swiping it.

You entered the room. Usually, you would be more than satisfied with it, but the only catch is that there’s only one bed. Your knees turned into jelly and you collapsed, but before your knees could hit the floor, Jeongin caught you and helped you up.

“Oh my gosh, are you okay?” Jeongin worries.

“T-there’s...only,” you feel as if you were going to cry, “one bed.”

“What?!” Jeongin screeched, nearly falling over and almost dropping you.

“Mister Park is going to regret this,” you mumbled, already planning a murder plan.

“W-we should r-really go ask for a room change,” Jeongin begs.

“No, we’re not. We can’t let Mister Park win,” you glared at the blubbering boy.

“O-okay,” for the first time, you saw Jeongin near tears.

---

Toothbrush in hand, you squeezed a little glob of toothpaste onto it and began brushing your teeth. You peeked into the bedroom, hair still dripping wet. Jeongin was sitting awkwardly on the couch, scrolling through his phone. The television was on, but the volume was low. The two of you decided that some white noise would be the best way to distract you from the fact that there was only one bed. Jeongin had offered to take the couch, but you insisted that he slept on the bed. You couldn’t have him in a bad condition during the promotions tomorrow. Besides, you were a good boss.

“Oh, Miss y/n,” Jeongin looked up from his phone, noticing you peeking out of the bathroom.

“How early do we need to be up tomorrow?” you paused your brushing, the foamy paste all over your lips.

“The meeting starts at eight in the morning. We should eat breakfast before though...so maybe be up at seven?” Jeongin gets off the couch and walks towards you.

He hands you his phone and you scrolled through the schedule, nodding a few times. You ducked back into the bathroom to rinse your mouth out before popping back out. You handed Jeongin his phone back.

“Miss y/n, you should dry your hair. You can’t afford to get sick now,” Jeongin looks at your soaking hair worriedly.

“It’s fine. I’ll be fine,” you dismiss him, waving a hand.

Jeongin reached for your waving hand and grabs your wrist. He gently tugged you back into the bathroom before plugging in the hairdryer and turning it on. His actions shocked you, but also made you a little shy.

You watched through the giant mirror as Jeongin dried your hair, occasionally ruffling it to make sure it was drying evenly. Your eyes traveled all over his face. His brows were furrowed and his tongue was peeking out from his mouth. He had the cutest “concentrating face” and you couldn’t help but smile at the sight. Finally, Jeongin turned off the hairdryer and you parted your hair away from your face.

“I could have done that by myself,” you huff, trying to mask your satisfaction.

“Well, it’s my job to help you out,” Jeongin chuckles.

“Whatever,” you pout, “You can use the bathroom now.”

Jeongin simply laughs and retrieves his clean clothes before entering the bathroom and locking the door. You sigh and slipped into bed and scrolling through your phone. You hadn’t really thought about the consequences of sharing a bed with Jeongin until you actually got into the bed. Although it was the penthouse and the bed was fairly large, the bed was still meant for only one person. You swallowed harshly, trying to imagine how far you’d have to scoot to keep a safe distance from Jeongin.

Before you knew it, Jeongin was out of the bathroom, clad in a plain white t-shirt and light gray joggers. You subconsciously slid further down into the blankets, covering your face with your phone as you tried your best to look away. You’ve never shared a room with a boy, much less shared the same bed with one. You felt shy. You felt like a little girl who was experiencing something new.

Jeongin shuffles over to the bed and hops in, staying at the very edge of it like you were. You appreciated the space he left in between the two of you and bid him goodnight before turning off the lights.

You rolled away so that you weren’t facing him and closed your eyes. However, no matter how hard you tried, you just couldn’t sleep. Not with Jeongin right next to you at least. You weren’t sure if Jeongin was asleep or not, but you could hear his soft breathing and it comforted you a little. Soon enough, your eyes began drooping and you were knocked out cold.

~Admin Liz ♡

[ua-aizawa-returns]

Don’t Threaten My Students

[themadlostgirl]

Not Dead Yet (Part 81)

*Thank you all for over 800 followers! I love you guys! Lets see how many followers I still have after this though.*

Pairing: Reader x Peter Pan

Warnings: language

I didn’t turn around immediately. I knew once I looked at him I wouldn’t be able to change my mind. I need to choose right now.

“Y/N?” He spoke and I clutched the pearl necklace around my throat.

Do it now.

I turned around and met his clear green eyes. My choice cemented.

“Peter.”

“I’m sorry for trapping you down here. Know I had no other choice.” he pulled out a bowl full of food, “I brought you something to eat in case you were hungry.”

“Thanks.” I set the bowl on the table and took his hands. The action seemed to surprise him but he didn’t pull away.

“You know that I don’t remember being Y/N.”

“Yes.”

“You know the others brought me here to help rescue Henry from you.”

“Yes.”

“Did you know that this wasn’t what I wanted?”

This caught his attention. He furrowed his brow at me. “What do you mean?”

“Before Henry was taken, before everyone labeled you a villain, I had already wanted to come here. I thought it would give me answers...memories.”

“But then I had a new purpose. One that was more important.” I stood tall, “Henry is a great kid. He has helped me so much and I don’t want him to get hurt. I don’t want any of them harmed.”

“Because you don’t know better.” Peter squeezed my hands.

“I do. I know that what happened to me is unforgivable in your eyes but it isn’t their fault I don’t remember. I crossed the town line on accident. I have no one to blame but myself.”

“No. You’re smarter than that.” He stepped away from me, “You wouldn’t have accidentally done something that made you forget who you truly are.”

“I don’t know that. I don’t know anything about Y/N except for what I was told.” I reached out and wrapped my arms around him from behind, “But I want to. I want to remember. I want to be Y/N again. You’re the only one that wants that too. Tell me what to do. How can I help? If it can give you the power to restore my memories and bring back the real me then I want to be of assistance in any way I can. Then I can remember. Then we can be together again, like we’re supposed to be. Like I want us to be.”

“How can I be sure this isn’t a trick?” He muttered softly.

“You can’t. You can only take my word and believe that I’m telling the truth. It’s a leap of faith.” I rested my forehead in the space between his shoulder blades, “Faith, trust, and a little push.”

I could feel the quiet rumble of a laugh that didn’t make it past his lips. “That’s what I said to you before I shoved you off a cliff.”

“Then I flew.” I nodded, “Small things like that have been coming back to me since being here. It isn’t much but it could be so much more.”

He brought me around so we were facing each other again. “If there is one thing I believe in this world, pet, it’s you. You’re still in there. I want to believe that.”

“So I can help?”

He studied me for a long time before finally nodding. “Yes. I believe you.” He kissed my forehead, “Let’s get out of here. There isn’t a moment to lose.”

He pulled a ladder down from the ceiling. I took a deep breath and followed him out. I felt horrible lying to Peter like this. He was putting so much trust in me.

As much as I wanted what I said it was only a half-truth. I want to remember, I want to know who Y/N was, but I can’t be with Peter. I’m not Y/N anymore. I’m Marigold. The only place I can truly belong is Storybrooke with the people that have helped me all this time. I couldn’t let this guy I’ve only known for a couple days uproot everything I am now. No matter how much it hurt to do so. No matter how much a part of me did want to stay.

I would not let him kill Henry.

Crawling back to the surface I was met with Peter’s beaming face and an outstretched hand as he helped me out of the hole in the ground. Why does the right thing have to feel so wrong?

~~~

We walked through the jungle, Peter’s hand interwoven with mine as we made the trek back to camp. Randomly he would mention something about our past or kiss the back of my hand. Each mention and each sweet action made me feel sick.

He trusted me so easily. And all I had to do was betray everything I wanted for what I knew was the right thing to do. I know you can’t always get what you want but damn it all to hell I wished just this once I could. I didn’t want to get it out of sacrificing another’s life though.

The guilt settled in my stomach like a heavy stone. Each soft look and gentle kiss only adding to the weight until I was sure it would drag me straight to the planet’s core.

I did my best to ignore the concerned gaze of Henry as I walked back into camp on Peter’s arm. I need to keep this up until I can get to Wendy. Even if Peter trusts me I doubt he’d let me run off on my own long enough to get to the others now that I had lost the looking glass.

It was getting rather late and we settled down for bed. I clung onto Peter as we lay side by side trying to rationalize away the act. It was all bullshit though. In the morning I would be a filthy traitor in his eyes and I wanted one last chance to steal some of that happiness I could only feel in his arms. The steady beat of his heart against my ear lulled me to sleep.

Is it a wonder that I dreamed of being caught out in a storm that night?

The morning came too quickly. It would hurt to much to keep on lying here with him knowing that I was just delaying the inevitable. “Peter?” I whispered poking at his face until he woke up, “Peter, wake up.”

“Good morning to you too.” he chuckled and rolled me on top of him. “Sleep well, pet?”

“Mhm.” I hummed. “Is it okay if I go see Wendy today?”

“You don’t need to ask my permission to see your friends.” He kissed me, “Go have fun. I need to do some more work on Henry if I’m going to get his heart in time.”

“Yep.” I nodded. I couldn’t help it and kissed him once more before tugging my shoes back on and leaving.

Once I was clear of the camp I was in a dead sprint to Wendy’s. I climbed up and barged in. She was still asleep and sat up in alarm at my sudden intrusion. “Y/N? What is it?”

“There’s not much time.” I paced the room, “I need you to find Emma, the woman I told you about, and get a message to her.”

“A message? What about that looking glass you had?”

“Lost it. Peter knows that I’m not myself but I convinced him to trust me anyway. That being said he will not let me anywhere near the adults so I need you to go in my place. I know what Peter has planned for Henry and he needs to be stopped now. I think we can get a plan together but only if we act fast.”

“What do you need me to tell them?” She asked much more awake now.

“If they have a way off the island then to be on the west beach at sunset tonight. Be ready for a fight and I’ll take care of the rest.”

“What are you going to do?”

“Something I really wish I didn’t have to.” My hands started shaking. “Just get that message to them. We’ll figure out the rest after we know if we have a way off the island.”

Wendy nodded and started to get dressed. She left to talk to the others and I waited in growing paranoia until she finally returned. The good news was that they did have a way out and would be there at the beach tonight. Also apparently Neal survived and was on the island too. How he lived through being shot was strange but I didn’t want to dwell on it. The bad news was that now I had to go through with my plan.

The boys were laughing and playing as the day went on. I stayed near Peter playing my part until the sun started to dip lower in the sky. I had been purposefully avoiding Henry all day and now he looked completely distraught. I couldn’t risk letting him in on this plan. Too much was at stake and I needed him sad for this.

“Peter, it looks like Henry’s not doing to well over there.” I pointed him out while Peter and I danced around the fire.

“Seems so. Should we go talk to him you think?”

“I think it could help. Maybe get him out of camp for a bit. He’s probably going stir crazy being trapped here all day and night.”

“True. I know exactly what to do too.” Peter grinned and pulled me along to where Henry sat.

“Still down in the dumps?” Peter asked. Henry glared. “Come on now, Henry. You’re here to save magic. It’s a happy time.”

“No it isn’t. I’m trapped here.”

“Then let’s go for a walk. There’s something I would like to show you.” Peter offered his hand but Henry continued to glare at it.

“Henry,” I spoke up, “Please listen.”

I tried my best to plead with my eyes. It must have worked since he stood up and nodded at us to lead the way. As I suspected Peter was walking us straight to the west beach which sat across the way from Skull Rock.

Peter was monologuing to Henry about his importance in bringing back magic when the heroes appeared around us. Peter’s grip on my hand tightened as he took in the adults surrounding him. They were all together weapons raised.

“Now this is adorable.” Peter scanned them, “All of you banding together to get the boy. But I fear that this is where I stop you.”

“No it isn’t.” I said and Peter turned to me.

“What?” he looked lost.

“You’re going to let Henry go and you’re not going to put up a fight.” my voice wavered but I held strong.

“Y/N, you said…” he sighed, “I’m sorry, precious, but I’m not letting him go.”

“Yes you are.” the heroes edged closer.

“And why is that?” I could feel the hell he would unleash upon the others growing closer if I didn’t act soon.

“Because if you hurt any of them,” I took the dagger from my hip and held it to my own throat, “I’ll be going down with them before you can blink.”

He let go of Henry and I nodded to him to go. Regina and Wendy had Henry and was ushering him further down the beach where the Jolly Roger had now dropped it’s cloaking spell.

“Y/N?” Peter stared at me in abject horror as I stepped away from him and towards the heroes. Stabbing myself with the knife would have hurt less than the look of utter betrayal on his face. I wasn’t just a traitor right now...I was breaking his heart. Only seemed fair this was breaking mine as well.

“Peter, I--” I choked out, “I’m sorry. I wish I didn’t have to but--but I can’t--I can’t let you hurt Henry.”

“But you can kill me.” he clenched his fist and I felt the ground under me start to tremble slightly.

“Please, understand I--”

“You don’t need to explain anything to him.” Emma started to usher me away. “We need to go.”

“Y/N, no, please!” Peter shouted after me, “Please don’t leave me again!”

I couldn’t have stopped the sob that escaped my throat if my life depended on it. I looked back in time to see David hit him over the head knocking him unconscious. This isn’t right.

Hook started to walk towards Peter with his sword drawn.

“No…” I broke away from Emma and ran back across the beach towards where Peter lay. Hook had his sword ready to stab him.

“No!” I swung my club at him deflecting the blade.

“Marigold! What the hell are you doing?” Emma yelled at me.

“I won’t let you hurt him.” I growled at them. “We have Henry and a way off the island. There’s no need to kill him like this.”

“Yes there is,” Hook stepped closer. His sword was still aimed at us. “He’s a monster, the only way anyone is going to be safe is if we kill him now.”

“He’ll be dead soon anyway. Let him be till then.”

“No. That boy has caused far too much trouble. I’m taking my revenge.” He lunged and I let instinct take over as I defended myself and Peter from Hook. The others were shouting at us to stop but I refused. I don’t care what Peter had done in the past. I don’t care that he would have killed Henry given the chance. I wouldn’t let him die like this. He deserved to go out on his own terms. Not skewered while he was powerless by a pirate.

I don’t know how I managed it but I swiped Hook’s legs out from under him and pinned him to the sand. My knife was at his throat. Even now more memories started to break through. Apparently this was something that happened a lot before. “Leave. Him. Be.”

“Or what? You’ll kill me, Marigold?” Hook smirked and I pressed the blade closer. A small ribbon of blood traced the line between metal and skin.

“I may be on your side but don’t forget that there was once a time I would have stabbed you through the throat already, captain. Be thankful I am Marigold and not Y/N. I doubt she would be merciful after what you’ve done.”

“Marigold…” Mary Margaret laid a hand on my shoulder, “Let him up. I promise we won’t hurt Pan.”

“Mary Margaret--” David tried to protest.

“David.” She silenced him, “You know why she won’t allow it.”

David looked at me for a long moment before nodding. “Let’s get out of here then. While he’s still unconscious please.”

The others started heading towards the ship. I looked down at Peter. That same ball of guilt was now a black hole sucking away all the happiness I had found here. “I’m sorry.” I took off my necklace and placed it in his hand. “Truly I am.”

I stood and raced to catch up to the others. Don’t look back. Don’t look back.

~~~

Gods above that hurt. Peter tried to clear the fogginess from his head. There was something in his hand. He looked down and saw Y/N’s pearl necklace in his palm. What--

The world snapped back into focus. Y/N! He felt for her presence and his heart sunk as he felt it growing smaller.

Up above him Peter watched as the Jolly Roger lifted into the sky. He would have been apoplectic with rage at their escape if it wasn’t for the one face he saw watching from the side of the ship. Y/N was on it. She was leaving.

Even from the growing distance he knew she saw him. It was bad enough having her used against him but to see her leaving with the heroes hurt worse. He had sworn that whenever she came back he would never let her go again. He imagined a reunion where she ran into his arms and they never parted.

Now here she was, leaving of her own accord. A life of lies trapped in her head with no way out. He wasn’t mad at her for not knowing who she was. He was mad at the so called heroes. They took her identity, her memories, her life away and molded her to fit their needs. They didn’t care about Y/N. They just wanted to be able to use Marigold.

The only solace he found in her departure was that she wouldn’t be here when his curse finally ticked away and he died. She’d be safe at least. And that’s all that mattered.

The ship was high in the air now. Sailing closer to freedom. Peter was about to turn away, he couldn’t watch her leave him. Then he saw someone come up behind Y/N. Rumplestiltskin. Before Peter could even sneer at the sight of the bastard he watched as the Dark One shoved Y/N over the side of the ship.

“NO!”  the cry ripped itself out of Peter.

Immediately he was in the air shooting through the sky. The wind was deafening as he flew forward to intercept Y/N’s hurtling descent.

He caught her before she could hit the water. From so high up it would have been like landing on stone. She clung onto him as he quickly brought them back to the shore. He didn’t put her down nor was she looking to let go of him when they were safe on the sand.

“Are you hurt?” he asked.

She was shaking rather violently but that seemed to be more from the near death experience than any injury. Still he waited until she nodded to relax. The adrenaline that had been coursing through his veins ebbed away leaving exhaustion in its wake.

The rescue had sapped what little energy he had left. The curse was going to take him soon. There was no more staving it off. He collapsed back against the sand.

“What’s wrong?” Y/N hovered over him. “Why did--”

“Shh,” he hushed her and reached into his pocket. He pressed the last magic bean into her palm. “There’s not much time left. You need to get off the island. Go anywhere so long as it isn’t here.”

“No.” she shook her, “I can’t just leave you.”

“You already were. It’s okay. It’s not your fault.” he closed her hand around the bean. “Go, be safe.”

“Why did you do it?” she asked, “Why did you save me? After I lied to you and betrayed your trust you still caught me. I don’t understand, I’m not the girl you want. I may have her face but it isn’t me. I can’t remember--I can’t--”

She was fighting back tears. Tears for him.

“You’re my Lost Girl. Whether you remember it or not. I’ll always catch you.” He touched her cheek. “I could never see you in pain.”

“Peter…”

“There isn’t much time. Take the bean and get out of here before the curse swallows the island.”

“I’m not leaving you. Not again.” She bent her head down and left a kiss on his forehead. The small act of intimacy was all he needed. He drew in one last breath of her scent and fell into oblivion.

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[broken-heartedgirlff]

Chapter 33- Wasted

Slammin' 'em fast at the bar tops Drinkin' them straight with no regrets Obviously I've got a problem I like the tasteWanna get wasted with you Tell me what's good for me but I don't care Wanna get wasted off you Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah    I like the taste 

Chapter 33 ~ Wasted

Avery

I put the cool glass against my forehead. I was extremely hungover, and being in this position isn’t good for me, but nor did I care. Did I have a problem? Yes, but when you’re feeling the pain that I am feeling, you just need to numb it.

I stared at the newest form of papers that basically called me an unfit mother, and that Olivia wanted to terminate my rights to my son and take him away from me. We’ve been going for months back in forth, and I guess now we actually have court because the papers are here.  

I honestly cant believe this bitch. She took Jeremiah, but I refuse for her to take away Aiden. He was the only reason why I got up in the morning. 

Okay, did I leave him with Jeremiah once I knew his marriage with Olivia was finished. Yes, because I knew that I had one upped her, once and for all. I broke up her marriage, had his baby but I couldn’t take the pressure of him always choosing them so I left. I swear I was gonna come back. But I guess I didn’t come back fast enough

I sniffled, did I truly want Aiden? I want him, as long as Jeremiah came with him. I didn’t care about his other children, in fact, I hated them. But I wanted Jeremiah. I wanted him to love and hold me again like we used to.

“What are you looking at?” I looked up to see my boyfriend King, naked, standing in the doorway to our kitchen.

I shrugged, “Papers from my ex, claiming I’m unfit and terminating my rights to my son.”

His dick swung between his legs as we walked closer to the counter where I was. I had every intention of getting on my knees and putting it in my mouth but I needed to focus on the issue at hand. No matter how horny I was.

“Well, it’s our way out of taking care of the little bastard. Sign the papers and give him what he wants, I’m sick of this legal shit.”

He made it clear from day 1 that he didn’t want children. I knew that, and I still stayed with him. Which is why I left Aiden with Jeremiah in the first place. Did I love this man? Absolutely not, he wasn’t Jeremiah. But he gave me everything I wanted. Money, Status, Alcohol, Drugs and attention. Things that J could never.

No my boyfriend doesn’t know about the times I went to their house, trying to fuck Jeremiah, and he will never know, because if he did, he’d probably kill me.

“I want to fight it.” I spoke loudly  

He looked at me like I was crazy. Hell I was.

“Why in the hell would you do that? You know I would leave, and never look back. We agreed Ave. NO KIDS! I don’t want them bloodsuckers. I hate them.” He spoke in disgust and anger. He was gripping the counter, focusing on his breathing. I knew if I didn’t calm him down, I would end up in the hospital again.

“Big Daddy, If I fight it. Aiden will come here, for a few days and we’ll get them to sign over papers paying child support, and give him back to them. Plus no judge is going to allow Olivia to adopt him, they aren’t married.” I said

I knew my plan was bullet-proof. Fight long enough for them to pay child support for Aiden, take it and spend it on my man. Send Aiden back to them and collect on the payments.  

“Baby, they are married.” He spoke showing me the paperwork, and indeed they were.

“WHAT!” I screamed snatching the papers from him, but I took my voice down a few octaves, I didn’t want daddy to be mad at me, or see how upset I really was.

“What the fuck! We need to get Aiden back daddy.” I pleaded.  

He pushed my hair out of my face, and tucked it behind my ear, revealing a healing black eye. He rubbed his thumb over the bruise, which caused me to wince and travelled down to my lips, which he loves.

“If I help you, what are you going to do for daddy?” He said in a sexy ass way. It made my pussy wet immediately.

I smiled, and backed away from him, going to the drawer next to him. Pulling out a bag of our favorite white powder, cocaine.

I set up a line for him, which he sniffed up immediately. Ugh that shit was sexy as fuck.

I set up a line for myself and followed after him, while slowly playing with his dick. He moaned softly, but his dick was hard as a rock.

“You know what I want you to do,” He spoke.

“Yes daddy.”

I got on my knees in front of him, and watched him watch me. I carefully set a line of coke on his dick, immediately sniffed it up, and as soon as the high from the first line hit me I put his dick in my mouth.

“Uhh… fuck Ave.” I moaned while I looked him dead in the eyes.

Oh, we are about to get started. 

Rack

“Baby. Do you want anything from the store?” I called out to Rose

“No. I’m good,” She called back from the living room.

Leaving the apartment, it was a nice beautiful day. I was pretty excited, I was buying Rose the most beautiful house, her dream home. I couldn’t wait to show it to her.  

I know, that we’ve been through a lot and I love that girl. She pulled me out of the game and she set me straight. She was everything that someone could be for me and I for her. I love her with all of my heart.  

I also want to talk to her about extending our family. I know she can’t carry a baby full term. It’s bad for her health, and could kill her. But I had an idea, on how to get everything that we want. which is why I’m on my way to Liv’s house to talk to her.

~~~

“Nigga you always at my house, do you ever fuckin leave?” Jeremiah said with annoyance.

I rolled my eyes, no, I still don’t like this nigga. He broke our promise all those years ago, and I don’t care. He still a snake in my eyes.

“I’m here for my sister, and last I checked, this her house nigga.” I spat back as Liv entered the kitchen

“ANDRE! Stop fuckin with Jeremiah and J stop fucking with Rack! Please!” She yelled at the both of us.

“I’ll be in the den.” He said to her kissing her on the forehead, and flipping me off, walking out the room

“Fuck you too bitch.” I said

Liv just rolled her eyes, “What do you want little brother?” She said to me, while preparing dinner for her family

I needed her to understand where I was coming from, and I knew she was the person to help  

“I need help. I want kids. and I want kids with Rose.” sadness, was obvious within my own voice and apparent enough for Liv to catch on

“Rack-“  

I could tell she was worried about my mindset behind this conversation, but I needed to reassure her that everything was fine.

“I’m fine. I just want help looking for a surrogate, I want to be with Rose forever and I want our family to grow.”

She smiled at me, “Is this Rose’s idea?”

I shook my head, “No, she hasn’t brought up children since the hospital, and back then, you were in a coma, and everything was going wrong for our entire family. I just want this really bad and I want to give her options so that she knows I’m serious about it.”

“Are you gonna be okay if she told you no?” She quizzed

I hadn’t really thought about it, “She’s not gonna say no, she’s gonna be thrilled about it. I promise. We want this Liv.”

She smiled brightly, “Look at my little brother growing up!! Of course I’ll help you. I know some of the best adoption/ surrogacy agencies and lawyers out there. Now if only we can get Lei to think like this.” she said brushing her hair out of her face.

I started to laugh, but immediately stopped when I saw that big ass rock on her finger. She noticed where my attention had gone and she tried to hid it, but it was too late.

“Rack- Cmon dont over react.” She spoke calmly

“Yall engaged!!!” I raised my voice.

She mumbled.  

“Olivia, I cant hear you!”

She sighed, “No, we’re married. We got married in secret and last I checked, one of my daddies was dead and the other was in New York.”

“YALL MARRIED!!!!!”

Angel

“So how have you been since we last talked?” My therapist asked,

I shrugged, I don’t want to be here. Mommy and Daddy are just wasting their money if we want to be completely honest.  

They thought it would be a good idea, since, they are in therapy that Mason and I should go to it as well. I guess they’re afraid we’ll be messed up like them.

She sighed, “How’s Dominique.”

I rolled my eyes. “You mean Andrea?”

“Why do you insist on calling her Andrea, when your family calls her Dominique? She is your sister”

Kicking my legs, I felt the tears coming when talking bout this topic,

“My baby brother that died, his name was Dominique. I refuse to call her that. Her name is Andrea, and she isn’t my sister.”

I hate talking about my feelings. Like why cant I just not like that baby, and it be the end of it? Everyone wants to make a big deal out of me not liking it. It’s not like i set her on fire or anything, I thought about it though. But Daddy and Mommy would send me where Katie was and I refuse.

“Can we not talk about her. Can we talk about anything else.”

“Sure. How would you feel if your parents got back together?”  

I shrugged, “Doesnt matter to me if they do or don’t.”

“If Andrea wasn’t involved?”

“I would be excited. I could live with my parents and my brother. They could have other kids and I would be fine. Like how I was when I was a baby.”

“But Andrea is involved, so how would you feel.”

“I said, I wouldn’t care. Either way. Long as they keep Andrea away from me. I’m fine.”

“Why do you not like your sister?”

I looked out the window, it was raining and I like rain. Especially when it’s hot. It fit my mood. Angry, but sad.

“I dont care for the baby. Not everyone likes babies, so why is it a big deal?”

I wanted to go play in the rain, the pitter patter sound it makes on the window, typically gives me joy. I like how at the end of each rainstorm there’s a rainbow.  

Colorful and calm, beautiful and bright, joyous and jolly.

Everything I’m not.

“Maybe it’s-“

I cut off the doctor, noticing the time was almost over. But I still looked out the big glass windows

“I’m like the rain, sad, and gloomy but at the end of the storm, its peace and a rainbow right? At the end of each rainstorm, its a rainbow, saying God’s promise that he wouldn’t ever remake the world, by flooding it. Showing that it gets better. It gets better right?”

As soon as I asked that, the question left in the air, because thankfully, our session was completely over.

Lizzie

Having a baby is exhausting. I love Zoey, I do. but chile. She is a handful. I mean he father helps but its been little by little. Especially since he got married to Eva.  

I dont have a problem with his wife, but it seems that she may have a problem with me. At first, Zoey and I were invited to the wedding. Then my invite was rescinded and Zoey could go, but they knew she wasn’t going without me, so she didn’t get to be apart of her father’s wedding. I mean that weekend she ended up getting really sick and they couldn’t go on their honeymoon so maybe it serves her right.

I tried to have multiple talks with her but she ended up just telling me that everything was fine. I don’t know, and I don’t have the energy to care. Long as she treats my daughter with respect, I could care less if she treated me any kind of way.

Many people have asked me if I have feelings for Zoey’s father, and the answer is no. We had a one night stand that turned into our daughter. Not feelings. I don’t want to date, because I don’t want the horrible experience that I had with Vincent ever again.

Yes, I do know that no one will ever do what he did. But it was traumatizing. I’m happy with Zoey and with the life I’m trying to build for her.

“Can you get out of your thoughts please Liz?”  Kam called out to me

We were having our weekly family dinner. This time, it so happened to be at my townhouse. Everyones kids were playing in the backyard. Zoey and Dominique were playing together in the playpen right by the kitchen. Girls in the kitchen and boys outside on the grill. Our traditions.

“Sorry. Lot of thinking.” I spoke.

“How are you though Lizzie?” Lei’Lani spoke up

I cleared my throat, “I’m okay, the doctor says that I need to keep with my medicine and exercising. Thank you all for helping me out with Zo”

“No problem, That’s what family is for” Rosie smiled.

I was diagnosed with Postpartum depression after have Zoey. I would randomly cry, I wouldn’t eat for weeks, somedays I couldn’t even hold my own daughter. That’s when Giselle and Liv recognized the signs as they had been through it as well, and we went to the doctor.

“I just want to be the best mom that I can be for my daughter, and I honestly feel like I’m loosing it all.”  

Gi came up and hugged me. “Listen, you know I got you no matter what. You are that best mom that you can be for your daughter.”

I smiled at the encouraging words that my sister gave to me.

~~~~

After the cookout, everyone left except Olivia and Giselle. Their kids and Dom and J went home to settle them and put them to bed while Liv and Gi stayed to help put down Zo and clean up my house.

“So, does Jaxon and Eva help around with Zoey?” Liv asked

“Not really, it’s all me. Basically.” I sighed

“Do you have an agreement with a mediator about the living conditions of Zoey as she grows older? Liv asked again

I sighed, “No, do you think I need one?”

“We aren’t trying to pressure you into anything Liz, but its obvious that you need help and Jax is her father and Eva is her step mother, they need to help no matter what.” Gi spoke concerned

I mean she was right, we all did need to sit down and go over everything for Zoey’s life because I cant continue to ask and not get a response. I want to get back to normal, and they need to pitch in.

“How are y’all? We’ve all been really busy these last few months.”

They both ended up shrugging,

“It’s been a journey since I got shot by Katie, I still have migraines, but I love being with Jeremiah and the kids, the court case is coming up and i have no idea which way it’s going to go. I want it to go our way, but if it doesn’t, Aiden is still my son.” Liv smiled

“You know I’m praying for you, I hope it goes our way, and that bitch can get out of our life forever.” i spoke.

“Amen, but speaking of bitches, how’s Katie?” Liv snickered.

“Annoying as hell, everything Dom wants for Nique, Katie just declines, and wont allow but then as soon as we involve her mother, she acts like its the greatest idea ever. I wish this bitch would be out of our lives forever.” Gi spoke with disdain.

“Would you adopt Dominique, Gi?” Liv asked.

“I mean, technically, Katie has no rights being that she’s in jail. The papers for her adoption are already drawn up for me. I just have to sign them.”

“So what’s holding you up?” I asked

“I want to make sure Dominic and I are square and good. I don’t want to adopt her and then we end up getting divorced and now we have to split three kids. I just want to make sure our foundation is solid you know?”

“I think you’re pretty good on solid ground, you haven’t left since moving back in.” I said

“I know, but we aren’t perfect, and we have a lot to talk about. But-“

Liv cut her off, irritated,

“Youre wasting precious time and you are making excuses. Do you or do you not still love Dom.”

“I do.” She said confidently

“Are you falling back in love with him?” I asked

She blushed, “I am.”

“So what’s the hold up?” I asked with Liv agreeing

“I’m waiting for the ball to drop. I’m waiting for something bad to happen.” She spoke

Both Liv and I looked confused because they’re good, so whats the matter.

“Look, daddy kept us apart, then vincent, then katie. I just I don’t think I could take it if he was taken from me again. I just i’m taking it slow because I want to be with him for the rest of my life, but I don’t want anything bad to happen.” She rambled on.

“You can’t wait anymore Gi, we all know life is too short, You have to go for your happiness, you aren’t the broken-hearted girl anymore. You’re a grown ass woman with 3 kids and a man who loves her unconditionally.” Liv encouraged her.

“I know. But-“

“But nothing. You love Dom and he loves you. Stop being a pussy.” I laughed.

“Fine I wont but I need you to also stop being a pussy and stand up to Jaxon. You didn’t create Zo-zo by yourself.Okay?” She reassured me.

I nodded, I love my cousin and my sister. Without them, I wouldn’t be the woman I am today, they’re literally my best friends and I know I’m the same for them. Listening to all that we’ve been through and how messed up we used to be, we’ve overcame so much. We’ve definitely grown into the women that my momma raised and she would be so proud of us.

[decaffeinatedcatastrope]

EDIT:  jfc i forgot the readmore i’m sorry for the massive post on your dash xD So this is a snippet/draft from the big fic-in-progress, but it’s holiday appropriate and really cute.  

warnings: mentioned character death (he got better) smoking, mentions of drinking, cursing, and naughty santa innuendo between two emotionally constipated magical skeletons who can’t decide if they wanna date each other or punch each other.  except one knows he can’t be punched or he’ll die and he uses it to pester the other skeleton to no end.

-ahem-

Red and Sans are invited to Tori’s for a small gyftmas/christmas party.  It’s technically Red’s first christmas.  (Asgore is not invited for reasons, Red finds out later)  It’s...a party.  Red is a bit uncomfortable being included in the festivities, and feels a little out of place.

----- Just as Red was considering the eggnog as an escape from his state of constant, unending anxiety that someone was going to turn around and stab him, the whole party went quiet for a moment.  Everyone turned their attention to the front door, and the group of children started making an ungodly noise.   “the fuck??”  Red muttered, willing himself to get closer to the group so he could see what was going on.  Wait. That was Sans.  That was very clearly Sans, dressed up in a red, velvety santa suit and a shitty fake beard.  He hadn’t even bothered to take off his ratty slippers.  Holy shit.  Red fumbles with his soda as he tries to clap one of his hands over his mouth before he bursts out laughing.  Holy shit.  Holy shit.   Suddenly everything was worth it.  The anxiety, the stress, being around people who cared about him too much for whatever reason;  this made it all worth it.  This made his whole fucking year, seeing Sans dress up in such a stupid-- Then Papyrus screamed “SANTA!!  YOU MADE IT TO THE SURFACE!!” and practically tackled Sans.  The two skelebros laughed, and Sans patted Papyrus on the back.  They were happy. Red felt...something kinda warm and fuzzy curl up in his soul.  He gave Sans a genuinely affectionate smile, and he felt the tiniest bit proud of him for doing something like this for his brother.  Even though he’s damn sure Papyrus knows exactly what’s going on, and is just playing along because it makes them both happy. Red decided to keep his mouth shut, and tried to will the warm fuzzy feelings to chill for a bit while Sans started handing out presents to various party goers.  Papyrus and Frisk were the first, then he moved onto a couple of the Snowdin kids, Undyne and Alphys, and then Toriel. By the time he got around to Red, Red’s amusement had resurfaced, and he was trying his best to behave. He failed.  As Sans started digging around in his bag for Red’s present, Red gave him a mock-offended look as he scoffed.  “wait, no way.  after all the shi--”  Toriel gave him the Mom look.  “--stuff i’ve done this year, i’m not on the naughty list?” Sans looked a bit caught off guard, but recovered quickly with a shrug.  “eh, santa is forgiving, especially after what you’ve been through--” “damn, i’m guess ‘m gonna haveta try harder next year.”  Red gave him a wicked grin. Sans’ smile soured a little, and he shrugged.  “...well in that case, you get nothing.”  Off he went to the next person. “wh-”  That wipes the smile off Red’s face.  “wait, no, i--” “nope, too late, you’ve been bad.”  Sans stated, ignoring him. “hey!  wh...”  Red frowned at him, crossing his arms to keep himself from flipping the shorter skeleton off.  Sans almost wanted to go back and poke fun at him for actually pouting, but kept his act going. --- Later on, Sans was finally done being Santa.  After listening to Papyrus’ long explanation about how he’d missed out on meeting the jolly man in the red suit yet again this year, he just wanted to sit back and enjoy some time to himself.  Which meant finding Red.   He looked around the house, but it seemed like Red had vanished.  He had a good idea where his double probably was, though.  He asked Tori to make two cups of hot coco, then headed for the back door where the porch swing was.  For some reason, Red always ended up back here. Sure enough, Red was on the porch, although the swing was abandoned in favor of the steps.  And he was smoking again.  Sans was pretty sure it was still the same box of cigarettes Red had from the wedding. Sans didn’t try to be quiet when he opened the back door, so Red wouldn’t be too startled.  He did look back to see who was coming, but the relief on his face when he realized it was Sans was tangible.   “hey.”  Sans called, approaching quietly.   “...hey.”  Red replied, taking a drag of his cigarette.  He paused when Sans offered him a mug of coco.   Looking between his cig and the coco, Red eventually flicked his cig into the snow and took the offered mug with a warm smile.  “...thanks.” “no problem.”  Sans replied, sitting next to him on the steps.  “too much?” “...yeah.”  Red muttered, taking a sip of his coco.  He brightened.  “this is good.” “i can’t take credit, Tori made them.” “still good.  and ya still brought it to me.”   Sans hummed slightly, before nudging Red.   Red fumbled in an attempt not to spill his coco, and chuckled.  “what?” He thought he could see the faintest flicker of nervousness as Sans’ smile tightened a little.  “...you uh.  do you still want that present?” “thought i’d been too bad for presents.”  Red teased, nudging Sans back.   Sans took a moment to stare into his coco, before he set it aside and fished a thin, wrapped package out of his inventory, and held it out for Red to take.  “you deserve something, especially after i caught you pouting like a spoiled child after i told you you wouldn’t get one.” Red threw him an only slightly irritated glare and snatched the gift from him.  He was expecting something stupid, like Papyrus’ gift; a cookbook, except every recipe had ketchup in it. He wasn’t disappointed.  His gift was also a book, but it was a...coloring book?  The word “FUCK” was emblazoned on the front of it in fancy text, and framed with all kinds of artsy shit.   “the fuck is this?” Sans burst out laughing, and Red had to hold himself back from chucking the stupid thing at him.  Sans was doing that thing again, that dumb honest laugh of his turning his soul to mush with good feels. Once Sans managed to get a hold of himself, he held out a cheap pack of markers.  “it’s a coloring book.” “...Sans, it says FUCK on it.” “yeah, i saw it and thought of you.  open it.” “gee thanks, you ass.”  Red scoffed, flipping through a page or two.  He was assaulted with more curse words in fancy, flowery script.  Then, a horrible idea popped into his head.  “looks like a perfect activity to do with the kid next time i watch ‘em.” Sans’ amusement shifted to horror.  “oh god no - Tori would kill me--”  His arm snapped forward faster than Red expected in an attempt to snatch back the gift, but Red managed to hold it just out of the smaller skeleton’s range.   Red laughed as Sans tried to climb over him after the book, totally ready to chuck it across the porch if he had to.  Sans paused and gave him a strange look, a twinkle of something in his eye lights before he started trying after the book again with renewed vigor. Red kept laughing and fending him off until he felt something softly brush his skull.  A pastel shred of paper fluttered into view, and Red followed it with his eye lights until it landed on his lap.  The book was forgotten momentarily, and he didn’t even react when Sans snatched it from him. Then Sans noticed the slip of paper Red was oh so carefully holding in his hand.  A ticket, for the supernova event at Mt. Ebott observatory next year.  The same ones Red had died trying to get, weeks prior. Red said nothing, instead his gaze shifted and the two of them locked eye lights.  Sans was starting to get a little nervous.   “...you...i uh.  heard there was this big thing going on at the observatory next year, thought it’d be neat?  so i got two tickets, and uh, maybe you...could go with me?”  Sans grinned at him, but Red just continued to stare.  “i mean, if you wanted to.  i thought maybe...space was your thing too.  like mine?  i, uh...” Sans was beginning to worry that the aftermath of that whole situation might be a painful memory for Red, that it was stupid to dredge that pain back up during a time they were supposed to be happy, that-- Sans tensed when he felt Red loop one of his arms around the back of his neck, and leaned forward to click his teeth against Sans’ own, his soul welling with warm and fuzzy feelings.  He could pull away if he wanted, Red wasn’t holding onto him tightly.  But...friends don’t kiss, Sans. Sans leaned into the kiss, his arms slipping around Red’s waist of their own volition.  It was gentle, not heated or desperate.  Warm, calm, comfortable.  The two of them stayed like that for a good while, until Red pulled away first. They stared into each other’s eye lights until Red looked down at the ticket clutched in his free hand.  “...i uh.  i’d like that.  the space thing.  with you.”  Red’s voice sounded oddly tight, and it felt like his soul was getting ready to flutter right out through his ribs.   Sans wasn’t much better off.  He quickly retracted his arms to fiddle slightly with the fluff on the hem of his costume.  “good!  that’s...good.  ‘cause then i’d have an extra ticket.”  He cleared his non-existent throat and gave Red a grin.  “so uh.  you okay?” “...yeah?”  Red asked, quirking a browbone at Sans.  “why?” “no reason.”  Sans replied quickly. When it was clear Sans wasn’t gonna give him a real answer, Red scoffed and fished out his wallet.  He tucked the ticket inside, so it didn’t get...misplaced.  “it’s so hard to take you seriously in that stupid costume.”  He mused. That broke Sans out of his nervousness.  “oh, yeah i saw you trying so hard not to make fun of me.  good for you on behaving.”  Sans gave him a pat on the back. “don’t patronize me.”  Red snapped, before his expression shifted into something...warm.  Happy.  “i just...i didn’t wanna spoil it for Papyrus.  he was so fucking excited to see you show up in that stupid - sorry, to see Sansta show up tonight.” Sans shrugged.  “eh, he knows it’s me.  it’s just a thing we do.” “i figured, but he still enjoyed it.  it’s just...nice to see, ya know?  you two, doin’ nice shit for each other.  you’re a good brother, Sans.” Sans wanted to ask if Red had ever done something like that for his brother, but...something told him that he should probably keep his mouth shut about it.  “uh, thanks.” The two of them sat in awkward silence for a while after that.   “...so if you hadn’t decide to behave, what would you have said?”  Sans asked curiously.  It felt like poking a hornets nest, but he was genuinely curious, and the warmth in his soul from that kiss was stirring up other thoughts. Red snorted, before dissolving into downright laughter again, and he leaned on Sans for support.  Sans’ soul flipped in his chest at the sound. “haha, i can’t, i can’t say it.  i don’t wanna get kicked outta the house over somethin’ that stupid.” Sans casually glanced around the porch.  “we’re kind of already out of the house.” That made Red pause.  “...yeah, i guess we are, huh?” “so uh.”  Sans tugged a stray piece of fuzz off his sleeve. “why do you wanna hear what i’da said so bad?” “i need a laugh.  and a reason to put you on the naughty list.” Sans felt a twinge of regret the moment the words had left his mouth.   “oh really?  you need a reason?”  Red gave him a wicked grin, his gold tooth glinting in the dim flicker of the christmas lights around them.   “well, uh, i have plenty of reasons, but i just--”  He went silent with shock as Red maneuvered himself into Sans’ lap, the larger skeleton straddling his legs.  “uhhhh--” “oh, i’ll give you a reason.”  Red gave him a heated look.  “...how about i jingle yer bells, Sansta, and then we...fffuck i can’t--”  Red suddenly burst into laughter again.  “oh my god, that’s fucking terrible, even fer me.  ‘m sorry shortstack.” Sans was silent, frozen as his eye lights bore into Red’s own.  Red’s grin fell slightly, and his laughing ceased.  “...hey, i warned you it’d be stupid.”  His face lit up faintly red, and he moved to climb off of Sans when he felt Sans’ phalanges dig into the crests of his hips, holding him in place. “uhhhh.”  Red muttered. “uhh.”  Sans replied, looking between them.  He chuckled sheepishly.  “...i snow you wanna be on the n-ice list, but wow.  flirting with Sansta?  that’s definitely ultra-naughty list material.  i might have to stuff your stocking with something better than coal.” “holy shit." Red wheezed and started laughing uncontrollably again.  “oh my god - how - how long did you stay up last night thinking of naughty christmas puns?  holy shit, Sans!” Sans laughed too.   What was he even doing?  Had Tori put something in his coco?  “i just wanted to see if we were on the same page.”  He pointed up at the lights twinkling along the railing.  “while your pun was bit lacking, i’m de-lighted to see that you at least tried.” “we both know puns are shit and you prefer knock-knock jokes, you peppermint flavored gremlin.” “wow i take it back, you didn’t even try there.  back on the normal naughty list.” Red scoffed in mock offense. “didn’t even try??  well shit, lemme lick yer candy cane and find out what flavor it is then~” Sans’ face practically went navy at that, and he uttered a soft “fuck.”   Red snorted, pleased with that reaction.  “so, do i win now?” “y-yes.”  Sans managed to reply, hiding his face against Red’s stupid christmas sweater. “you gonna gimme a present?”  Red whispered against Sans’ skull, digging his sharp phalanges into the cheap, velvety red suit. “oh god.  uh.  not that.”  Sans shivered slightly, trying so hard not to do anything naughty on Toriel’s back porch.  But his mind was swimming with terrible puns.   “what, afraid i’ll bite?” “yes.  very yes.”  Sans was very aware of what those teeth could do.  And he wanted them no where near his...oh god. “wow, you trust me so much.”  Red deadpanned, before just...hugging Sans.  They were still in that slighly awkward position, with Red in Sans’ lap, but Red was comfortable, dang it.  He gave Sans a sheepish grin.  “hey, relax.  ‘m just playing.” “no you’re not, you’re corrupting me.”  Sans whined. “huh?” “i can’t - i can’t stop thinking of dirty puns.  oh god.  what have you unleashed.” Red laughed.  “don’t blame me fer that!  you were probably doin’ that long before i came around.” “no, i--” “hey.”  Red started.  “knock knock.” “...uh.  who’s there?” “coal.” “coal who?” “coal me if you hear santa commin’.”   Sans snorted, and Red felt some of the tension leave him.  Red smiled.  “why does santa always go down the chimney?” “i dunno, why?” “because it soots him.” Sans snorted again, before laughing. Feeling brave, Red continued.  “knock knock.” “who’s there?”   “...tanks.” “tanks who?” “tanks for givin’ me a good christmas, Sans.” “...o-oh.  you’re welcome Red.  you deserve it.”  Sans looked away with a soft smile, his face dusted with cyan.   Red shrugged.  “lies, but i’ll take it.  hey, why does Santa always land on your roof?”

“why?” Red leaned forward and whispered “because he likes it on top.”   That cyan shifted back into navy, and Sans gave Red an absolutely incredulous look.  “really?” Red grinned.  “i dunno, Sansta, you tell me.” The noise Sans made was amazing.  Red couldn’t help but laugh.  “okay okay, i’ll stop.”  He replied, trying to climb off of Sans again, but Sans still held him fast.  “...okay, my legs are fallin’ asleep here, Sans.”  He relaxed again, but jolted when he felt something that was definitely not a lump of coal, nope. “yeah?  well uh...”  Sans looked absolutely mortified, but he leaned in close and whispered something so quietly, Red almost didn’t hear it.   But he did hear it.  And his face went absolutely scarlet.  “...uhhhhehe...fucking hell, Sans.  that’s uh.  wow.  you sure yer not the one on the naughty list instead of me?” Sans still looked mortified, but he managed half a grin.  “so...uh, wanna move this party back home?” “i think we should.  ‘cause we’re probably gonna stain this fancy suit of yers if we continue.”  Red slipped his arms around Sans’ shoulders, quietly steeling himself for a shortcut. “yeah.”  Sans looked at the cups of abandoned coco, which had long since gone cold.  They really should return them.  Then he felt Red shift in his lap again, and Sans’ mind was made up.   --- “...nng.”  Red’s sockets fluttered open the next morning as the muted light of a cloudy day shined in through the window.  Right into his face.  Willing himself further into consciousness, he felt around for the familiar lump that was Sans, only to find him missing.   Swinging his arm behind him, it collided with his missing lump.  Sans let out a quiet groan at the assault.  “ow.  why.” “couldn’t find ya.”  Red mumbled, rolling over so the light wouldn’t bother him anymore.  “bright.” “mm.  i thought you liked sunlight?” “’s christmas an’ ‘m too full of lazy right now to care.”  Pulling Sans into a cuddle, Red relaxed and tried to go back to sleep. Sans snorted and let himself be cuddled.  Red’s bones still buzzed with his magic, and Sans smiled sheepishly. “merry christmas, Red.” “yeah.” “stars, you must still be tired.” “shuddap an’ go the fuck back to sleep.” “i would, but i don’t think i can.  the official Papyrus wake up call should be soon.” “the what.” Suddenly, there was a pounding knock on their door.  Red jolted in surprise.   “SANS, RED!!  WAKE UP YOU TWO LAZY BONES, IT’S CHRISTMAS!!  THERE’S PRESENTS!!”  Papyrus called excitedly, before his thudding footsteps bounded down the stairs. Now that both of them were sufficiently awake, Red groaned.  “i don’t wanna get up yet.” “we gotta.  if we don’t, i don’t think Paps’ll let the whole ‘we might not be decent’ thing stop him from barging in here to--” “’m getting up.”  Red replied, rolling himself off the bed with a muffled THUMP.  The quilt followed.   Sans laughed, before rolling himself off the bed after him.   “oof - get offa me.”  Red growled, his voice muffled by the quilt.   “huh, you’re actually kinda comfy.”  Sans replied, letting himself relax on the pile.  Red easily shrugged him off and stood up, balling up the quilt and tossing it onto the bed.   Sans let himself remain on the floor for a moment as he watched Red get dressed.  Red ignored him for the most part, but Sans didn’t miss the way his cheekbones were tinted ever so slightly scarlet.   “...i think i’ll make pancakes.  that sound good?”  Red asked after tugging his christmas sweater over his head, drawing Sans out of his thoughts. “yeah.”  Sans yawned and sat up, before retrieving a pair of shorts from the floor and tugging them on.  He wasn’t even sure if they were his.  A pair of clean sweatpants landed on his head.   “i don’t feel like having yer bro throw a shit fit over you wearing crusty floor shorts.” “they’re not crusty.”  Sans replied, picking at a questionable stain that might not quite be ketchup.  He frowned.  “sweatpants it is.” There was a clatter downstairs, and the two of them shared a look before Red left the room. --- Sure enough, Papyrus was gearing up to make them a breakfast feast.  Red yawned and took a moment to pour some coffee from the pot right into his mouth before going over and wrestling the cast iron from Papyrus’ grip.  Thankfully, Papyrus didn’t fight him.   “GOOD MORNING, RED!  MERRY CHRISTMAS!”  Papyrus beamed, before clapping an oven-mitted hand over his mouth.  “Was that too loud?” Red quirked a brow bone at him, and set the pan down on the stove.  “...no?  you don’t gotta be quiet in the house, Paps.  ‘s just us.” “...OH.  I THOUGHT YOU AND SANS HAD GOTTEN INTO THE EGGNOG YESTERDAY, WHICH IS WHY YOU WERE NOT UP EARLY, LIKE YOU NORMALLY ARE!”   “nah, i decided i wanted to remember my first real christmas without a hangover.”  Red replied simply.  “pancakes sound good?” “BUT RED, HOW WILL YOU COOK WITHOUT YOUR HANGOVER INDUCED GENIUS?” Sans took this moment to enter the room laughing.  Red shot him a glare, before giving Papyrus a tired look.  “i think i can manage pancakes.  i’ve made ‘em enough sober now that they’re not a complete mystery.” “CAN I HELP?” Red smiled. “’course, you can help me get the ingredients together.” Papyrus quickly went to go raid the fridge for ingredients.  “CAN I HAVE A SNOWMAN SHAPED PANCAKE?” “...i can try, i guess.” “can i have one shaped like a reindeer?” “yer gonna get a circle and yer gonna fucking eat it.” Sans chuckled and sipped on his coffee.  It was actually really sweet, just how far Red was willing to go to try and make Papyrus happy.  Yet something was still bothering him... Red’s brother.  Other Papyrus.  From what little Red had told him, and the... questionable things Alphys had told him, it really bothered him to imagine his sweet, naive little bro as...well, someone like Red.  Someone with LV.  Violent.  Paps had the potential to be dangerous, yes, but not the intent.   It would’ve had to be something devastating to get Papyrus to fight back to the point he gained LV.  

[autumnfanfiction]

10.

It had been a week since that fight between Chris and Robyn's ex, the bruising in his ribs healed, but the pains were now more frequent. In the pit of his stomach, he felt there was a reason beyond the fight, but he would have to wait for the results to come back. Joyce stayed for a week before heading back to Virginia, but contact was on a regular basis between Joyce and Robyn. Chris noticed how close the two became and it made him happy to see the women he loved attached the way they were like they knew each other for so long.

In the same token, Chris and Dolly were the same way. He loved her like she was his own grandmother, and she was. She taught him so much and told him so much in such a short amount of time, he wished there was more time for her on this Earth. Dolly had the same sentiments, but she had served her purpose so her time was ending and everyone that knew her knew where she would be going.

In her final moments, Robyn and Chris were at her bedside, each holding her hand. Robyn tried to be strong but she couldn't when she was withering away right before her eyes. She wished she could do something, anything to keep her here with her a little longer, but that's all it was, a wish. So because Robyn couldn't hold herself together, Chris did it for her. He remained strong because if he couldn't then that would make it tougher on Robyn. Dolly would sneak glances at Chris, and he understood what she was saying without her speaking a word. They discussed it already and the time had come.

On her deathbed, she was as jolly as can be making jokes and laughing to ease the atmosphere in the room. It made Robyn feel better and having Chris there gave her encouragement. Had she been alone her thoughts would have been she would never recover from this loss. Dolly's last words would resonate with them forever. She told them to never walk away from each other, to always communicate even when it was uncomfortable. She made them promise her and they promised. Lastly, she told them she loved them and that they made her last few months and hours worthwhile.

She laid there peacefully, and Robyn let the tears fall but was smiling through it. She might have lost her in a physical sense, but she gained a guardian angel. Knowing this made her cope much better than she originally thought she would. She looked at Chris and gave him a reassuring smile. They each gave Dolly a kiss on her cheeks before leaving the room.

-

Once Robyn was fast asleep in her bed, Chris went over to his so she wouldn't be able to see what he's been working on. He moved in silence and always worked at night while she was asleep since that was the only time he had available. She couldn't tell the difference because he was always back in her arms when she woke up.

After spending a few hours on his projects, he decided it was time to call it quits. He started to feel those recurring pains in his chest and ribs come back before the sharp pain caused him to grip the bed railing. They would come and go but each time it became more intense to the point it was intolerable. He tried taking deep breaths, but it only caused the ache to get worse "Fuck," he gritted through his teeth. He looked over to Robyn where she laid peacefully. He tried to keep quiet because he didn't want her to panic for this would send the wrong signals since Gran Gran's death was still fresh.

The pain started to die down a few minutes later, and he sighed resting his head on the pillow. Now more than ever his gut was telling him something wasn't right. He noticed it in Robyn too where her night sweats were becoming a nightly thing. Her pains were a bit more effectual than his causing her to be fatigue and sleep longer than normal. Even though he enjoyed staying with her late nights for her company, it was more so to watch over her as she slept. He would hear her heartbeat dissipate for a few moments, only to become steady again. It scared him how sudden the changes in their bodies were and he only hoped he would gain answers soon.

His mind started to drift to the thoughts of losing her as quickly as he found her. This woman had changed his life for the better, and he couldn't be more grateful that he was the one she was beautifully and wonderfully made for. To him, he was the most blessed man in the world, and he would never abuse his blessing. So if he were to lose her it would be unbearable.

He heard the door open and turned his head to see Doctor Samuel entering.

"Hey, Doc."

"Hey, Chris. How do you feel?"

"I feel okay right now. It depends on the day, honestly. I do feel some noticeable changes though like my coughing being more severe and excessive along with the stiff chest and rib pains. Robyn on the other hand, she has night sweats more often now and is a little more tired than usual–––" Chris paused and saw Doctor Samuel's facial expression as he was describing the discomfort he and Robyn had been feeling.

"You have bad news, don't you?" He whispered

Doctor Samuel nodded, and the emotion was evident in his face. He was on the brink of tears, and that's because he'd come to love Chris and Robyn. His attachment grew as he had the privilege of getting to know them so when he discovered the true extent of their illness, it killed him. It was killing him now, and it took him some time to build the courage to come and tell them what was going on.

Chris gestured for him to keep his voice down just in case so Robyn wouldn't hear anything. He went closer to Chris' bedside and sighed.

"You know Mesothelioma is a tumor of the tissue that lines the lungs, stomach, heart, and other organs in the body. Well, that tumor has spread throughout your lungs, which is why you're feeling the way you do. It's become fatal for both of you to the point surgery is no longer an option. We can try if you both desire, but survival is slim."

Chris blinked slowly feeling like time froze. He really wasn't surprised because there was a nagging feeling that's been bothering him for some time now, and now that he's learned the fate of Robyn and him, he knows why. It made sense why he was so bothered by the comment Robyn's ex made because deep down he knew it was true. He was optimistic for her so she wouldn't fret, but he knew. He had done his research, and it was a rarity to see survival stories, so he wasn't shocked. It didn't lessen the hurt from hearing it though.

"How much time do we have left?" He asked barely above a whisper

"The average life expectancy for patients is 12 to 21 months, and I would say that's where you both are based on the factors I've detected, the stage of the disease, your ages, and overall health. You both were extremely healthy before being plagued with this disease, so you have more time to live. In fact, you could live a little over that time frame because of that. That's the good news, you can live past one year, and that's 40% of patients. The bad news it's rare for patients to live past that, only 9% live longer than five years."

Chris sighed and nodded. "I don't want anyone to mention this to Robyn, okay? Promise me that the staff will carry on as if nothing was detected. I want to be the one to tell her and not in this setting, especially not after Gran Gran died."

Doctor Samuel nodded and gave his word. "I'm sorry Chris, I really am."

Chris smiled even when he wanted to cry. "Don't be. We have over a little over a year, right? I could get her pregnant with twins in that timeframe. At least we'd have legacies after we're gone."

Doctor Samuel nodded sadly. "Yeah, those would be some good looking kids."

"Can we–––" he paused clenching his jaw, trying to keep the tears at bay. "Would we be able to have kids? I don't want to risk them having cancer too."

It would kill him if he and Robyn were able to bring blessings into the world, only for them to suffer the same fate they did. But, even more, if their illnesses were so severe they wouldn't be able to have children.

"Well, that all depends on so many factors. Most cancers aren't caused by inherited cancer genes, so if there's a family history, it is highly likely. However, Mesothelioma isn't hereditary cancer. It's linked to asbestos, so you have nothing to worry about. Also, you can still have children at this stage. The tumor is spreading slowly, so it's not effective enough to cause infertility."

Chris let out a breath he'd been holding since asking the question and was relieved. Doctor Samuel gave him a smile and put a hand on his shoulder. "I'll get those papers set up for you so you guys can discharge. Make sure to keep in touch if you feel yourselves getting worse, okay? I'm going to give you Talc to prevent any excess fluids in your lungs before you go."

Chris thanked him before returning his attention to his sleeping beauty. He didn't know how he was going to break the news to her. One thing was certain there would never be a right time to tell her. All he knew was he wanted to get them out of the hospital as soon as possible. They were going to die so he would have to speed things up a bit and work overtime to accomplish what he had been working on for the past few weeks. Sure, Robyn would be devastated when she learned the news, but he would combat that with what he was planning after it set in in her mind.

"Damn." He said softly and raked his fingers through his hair

"Christopher, are you sure you feel good?"

He turned his head to see Doctor Samuel still at the door.

"Doc, I feel––– Fuck!"

He covered his mouth while he held his chest. It was back again and the effects had his eyes watering. Doctor Samuel rushed over to him and he swore he could hear his heart thumping like it was near his ears. His main concern was Robyn waking up and seeing this and it was faint, but he heard her groggy voice calling out to him. And that was all he heard from that point on.

-

Robyn watched as his chest rose and fell, hearing his light snores. Seeing him in such pain inflicted the same thing to her and she held her chest lightly reliving what she witnessed hours ago. Even with him straining she could see all he was worried about was her––– he didn't want her to see him like that, he wanted her to turn away, but she couldn't. How could she? She loved him and turn to a blind eye to his pain was impossible. The doctors were able to stabilize him and it seemed he fell into a deep sleep almost immediately. Her thoughts were running wild and having to deal with Gran Gran passing to Chris' scare was messing with her mind. He was okay now but what if he wouldn't be next time?

"Stop," She blinked and saw the shine in his eyes in the dark room. "What I tell you about thinking like that?" Robyn tried to speak but fear was prohibiting that.

"Buttercup, It was a scare don't worry too much. Heaven wouldn't be as fun without you." She knew he was trying to make her laugh, but it only caused her to cry.

"What caused that to happen?"

"Stress." He lied.

"I–––"

"Stop it." His voice was strained, so it didn't come out as harsh, but Robyn knew he was getting upset with her.

"Sorry."

He sighed. "Buttercup, please. I can't comfort you right now, don't do this to me. I didn't mean to snap at you but I don't like when you get like that."

She nodded and wiped the remnants of tears off her face. "Come here. I want you close to me." She shook her head. "Doctor Samuel told me I can't because you're a little weak."

"Well, I'm stronger when I'm close to you. Come here."

"Christopher..."

"Robyn, I don't care what anybody said, I'm fine. So either you come or I make you come." That made her smile because he always had double meanings with his statements. She carefully positioned herself on the side of him and placed her head in the crook of his head. Chris held her close and left a lingering kiss on her lips.

It was apparent to her that something was wrong. He wasn't the Chris she had grown accustomed to knowing––– the goofy, hyper, fun loving Chris. She had met the other side of him first, his romantic and sweet side, but that was him all the time, just in his own cute way. Right now she was being introduced to another Chris––– he was eerily quiet and seemed distant even in his attempts to be lighthearted, it wasn't as genuine. She didn't know whether it was the death of Dolly that finally hit him, or if it was what he just went through, but she was starting to become concerned.

"Hey! Are you okay? You're being like soggy cereal. I can't carry this conversation by myself, I have little upper body strength."

For the first time in a while, she heard his laughter ring through her ears. She missed that sound and would do anything to get him to keep it up until his spirits lifted completely.

"What's wrong Reeses?"

"Nothing Buttercup. I'm just thinking, that's all."

"But you're so sad. Are you still in pain?"

Chris moved his head to face her and smiled. "I'm not sad, just neutral. The pain is lingering, not as strong as it was before. I feel a little better though. How do you feel about us getting discharged? I have some plans for us if you're up for it."

Robyn perked up. "What kind of plans?"

"It's a series of surprises."

Robyn pouted and Chris tugged at her lip. "It's a secret, and you'll know when it's the right time."

"You're no fun, but I don't mind leaving the hospital. It's kind of bittersweet being here now that Gran Gran isn't here. When are we leaving?"

"Tonight."

"You're not in the condition to leave yet, Christopher."

He sighed. "Fine, we'll leave when I'm cleared."

For Chris, there was no time to waste on being here. He had plans that he needed to be executed because time wasn't on their side. It was true he still felt the effects but he rather it be him than her. He knew he would be fine, at least he hoped.