#i drew this a while ago and im not happy with the truck but it looks ok

[coffinpal]

silly doodle from a while ago, they put down some tarps and made Dollie's truck bed into a pool thinking he wouldnt notice.

[rotshop]

UGHHH this is so bad. (head in hands) LOOK. look. im sleepy tired and i just needed to warm up w/ something and also took exactly One break during this to grab a dirnk !!! shhh.

-

This was by far the worst situation you could've been in. Nevadean winters were a simple fact of how it was, but that didn't take any of the bite from the freezing winds. Some years, it would be a decent one, there would be a fair amount of hot and cold days and little snow. Not entirely pleasant, but you could work with it with in relative ease. Other years though, the season seemed to just throw it all at you, shoving everything off the shelves and toppling dominoes to see how you'd fair. It was the cruelest whenever those years came about.

This though? This had to be a fucking joke.

The others had already been on edge about the mission, as you and your partner didn't exactly have the best relationship. There'd been several attempts to switch things around so that threat would be eliminated, but ultimately they'd proven fruitless. So, with great reluctance they went along with it, though Deimos had been particularly adamant on you all meeting back up as soon as possible. He'd been especially antsy and anxious as the mission had drawn ever closer, voicing the most concerns and posing the most questions to you. He wasn't the greatest at hiding his worries when it came to those he considered close, you admired that about him.

It was almost funny with how right he'd been to worry about it. Not only had there been far ore agents and mags than expected, there was also jack shit worth taking. Obviously, this had been some sort of trap in an attempt to catch you all off guard. It'd worked, evidently, just not in the way they'd probably expected. At some point or another, it was decided you all had to get out and go. Sanford was far too injured to continue on, 2b was too stressed to think straight, and you and Hank had the luck of getting trapped on the other side of base.

You didn't exactly feel too surprised when you'd been yanked up by the back of your shirt and thrown into the back of a truck, door slamming shut seconds after. You could see a hoard of agents and mags alike nearing closer, unable to tear your gaze away from them even as your partner got in the driver's seat. There was a bit of commotion from them, barking into the comms. about needing to get out and go. You were still too distracted even when they'd begun to speed off, and far too distracted to hear Deimos' confused shouting get cut.

You could tell it was coming, somewhere in between all the pre-existing stress and dread. It was like your own version of getting a headache shortly before it storms, except all it did was tell you you'd be royally fucked for the next day or few. It was always a little too hard for you to decipher exactly how long it would be, a little too fuzzy of a reading for you to say anything accurate on the matter. All you could tell was that it was coming soon, it wouldn't stop just for your less than friendly company.

-

Three days. You'd been stuck driving out here for three days now.

Originally, the plan was to drive off until the agents would give up, turn around, and go back to base to find the others. It'd started off easy enough, the agents chasing after you seeming to lose interest in the hunt after a good while, turning and leaving. You weren't sure why at the moment, but the action had shifted something uncomfortably in your chest. It just felt too easy, too convenient.

You'd soon figured it out when the storm had started to kick in. It didn't seem too bad at first, a minor inconvenience that drew a little grumble and a lean forward in their seat from your companion. Then, it'd worsened and worsened. By this point, neither of you knew where you were. Sure, the anti-aahw had been all over Nevada- but that was just of the Nevada they knew about. It wouldn't be far fetched to suggest you'd both gotten turned around and were now god knows where.

Eventually, it was decided there was no progress that could be made here. You'd both have to either hope for a place to stay or that the car wouldn't fair too uncomfortably. Which, considering the lack of space in it and you with far too little energy to get into an argument, the first would be the blessing of the two. It wasn't too long until your quiet prayers from the back seat had been answered, the faintest of outlines among the storm showing some form of shelter. You could already feel exhaustion settling in, far too quickly for your own comfort. By the time Hank had pulled over to walk in, he'd had to reach into the backseat and tug you by the collar of your shirt with an impatient noise, a gentle encouragement laced with the threat of dragging you out.

You were sure you couldn't have pulled your legs further to your chest than you already had. Your spine was already beginning to set with soon-to-be-aches and cramps as you curled into yourself. You'd attempted to keep yourself as taut as possible, not wanting to look as pathetic as you felt in that moment, half-shaking on the cold hard floor of some abandoned complex. Hank had gone off a while ago, leaving you in the lobby to go look for a room to stay in- a room for him to stay in.

You'd lost track of time, too focused on trying to keep it all together as your mind threatened to go blank and shut down. It was the worst when it was like this, where you could only lay and hope for exhaustion to kick you into sleep at one point or another. Your limbs all felt heavy with weight, uncomfortable with just how impossible it seemed to move them. Every part of your body felt locked up, stuck and stiff how it was when you'd dropped down to the floor. You were at least glad you'd fallen to face the door, able to see the snow falling from your position.

Sure, it was the cause of your current estrangement. Yes, it meant you were stuck with the man who hated your guts with a burning passion. Despite all that, it was still pretty. It was surreal to see the sky something other than a burning red, though that oddness was fully welcomed if it meant a break from that damned color.

You'd been snapped out of your daze by a light nudge to your back, you attempted to summon up a sound of acknowledgement- coming up with nothing. The lack of a response earned another, rougher nudge, shoving against your spine uncomfortably. You'd jumped away from the contact with a little mix of a whine and hiss, head jerking back to meet the eyes of your 'assailant.' Red lenses met your gaze, looming over you from your place on the ground.

"Get off the floor and come with me," it wasn't a request. He'd always been especially bossy with you, a little colder and more detached from you. It didn't take a genius to tell he was on less than stellar terms with you.

You didn't have time to stagger up onto your feet, a hand finding its way to the collar of your shirt to yank you up once more. The world spun around you in a haze as you stumbled forward, attempting to re-balance yourself as best as you could in the short breath you were given. Apparently, it hadn't worked well, you ending up crashing into Hank in the process. He'd barely stirred at the movement, still as a statue despite your disturbance. Distantly, you'd noticed how his hands had moved to your back, keeping you upright. You'd also noticed how they weren't a bruising grip on your form-

"....walk?"

You'd blinked. You had no clue what he'd even asked, did he ask anything in the first place? I mean, you could've totally just imagined it. Maybe you were just dreaming already, it happens sometimes..

"I don't ask questions just for you to not answer. Can you walk?"

You'd opened your mouth to speak, shutting it shortly after. Your tongue was like lead in your mouth and your voice seemed to have gone for a walk. You weren't going to play the chances of you not answering again. Instead, you'd simply given a little nod. He was..surprisingly warm, in all honesty. You found yourself leaning further into him, unconsciously nuzzling your face into the crook of his neck.

He seemed satisfied by the answer, giving a little grunt of acknowledgement before pulling away. You'd caught yourself before you'd fallen, sleep snapping from you momentarily again as reality came back. By the time you found some sort of feelings in your legs again, he was already down the hall, not waiting for you by any means. You were grateful for the little burst of energy that'd found you, stumbling after him quickly.

You were reaching for his arm before you could really even process it, holding onto him once more in a moment of unconscious indulgence. You missed the little curious glance he gave you, and the way he'd pulled his arm (and subsequently you) a little closer to him. Admittedly, you leaning onto him so much did force him to slow down a bit, much to his chagrin. He didn't make any comment about it though. You didn't either, happy to just stay close as you just barely stayed awake enough to continue walking with him.

-

The mattress felt far more comfortable than the floor.

"Better than laying on tile, isn't it?" Came the sarcastic question.

Nevermind, fuck this mattress.

You'd given a little hum, stirring a bit as you got comfortable. You were still curled up as small as you could, some sort of attempt to salvage what little heat you had. The thin fleece blankets didn't offer much relief from the elements, serving more as an empty pressure laying on you. Despite that though, it seemed you were given some mercy, as you were just edging into unconsciousness.

"I'll be in the next room over so don't be loud, alright?"

You'd nodded slowly. There was a pause. There was an abnormally long pause, to be exact. After a few breaths you could hear the clinking of metal and the shuffling of cloth. Curiously, you'd poked your head up, looking at the man over your shoulder in confusion. He'd met your gaze, pausing for the briefest of moments as he tugged his jacket off.

"What're you doin?..." you'd managed, words slurring together drearily.

He'd given a short 'tsk,' continuing his previous ministrations as he answered. "What I'm doing is making sure you don't go into some little coma on me, I'm not carrying your ass around if you pass out that hard. That's on you."

You'd given a little displeased hum at his words, narrowing your eyes slightly at him. He didn't react. Laying your head back down, you'd sighed in some sort of content, peaceful enough in the deteriorating room. You could feel yourself falling asleep, thought slipping from you as you finally found some sot of rest.

Just before you really fell unconscious though, you could feel the weight of a jacket being draped over you. You could've sworn you felt a hand settle on your arm for a moment, tracing a few shapes and lines idly before reluctantly pulling away. You were so sure you heard the faintest of 'Goodnight,'s before the door clicked shut. You could have just been hearing things or dreaming them up, though. You'd just have to ask him about it in the morning.

[since0202]

Chapter 21: Return

When Grace shut the door behind her, Paul was coming around the front of the truck to her when they heard a voice shout out across the clearing to them. They were still a little early, but some members of the pack were there building the bonfire pit and helping some of the community set up tables for the food spread. 

“Hey!” Jared shouted across the field. Paul raised a hand and waved back, stuffing his keys into his pocket before holding his hand out to Grace who gladly took it. 

“This feels so official,” Grace said leaning into him as they walked in step with one another. 

“Oh it is. The binding ceremony is a real ball buster, but worth it if I get to kiss you in public,” he said nonchalantly. Grace looked up at him confused for a minute and then said, 

“You’re so full of shit, Lahote.” He laughed and unfurled his hand from hers to drape it across her shoulder instead and pulled her into him to kiss the top of her head before they reached the group. 

They entered the raucous of hoots and hollers from the pack. Grace gave Emily a quick hug before settling next to her quickly as Paul helped prepare the bonfire with the others. Grace always felt at home here. Speaking of home: 

“Weird question,” Emily had asked after she confirmed with Grace that her and Paul had made it official. She seemed pleased when Grace had said they were so that was a good sign. 

“Shoot,” Grace said. 

“After graduation, are you planning on moving back to the rez?” Emily asked casually. Grace felt like she had been smacked with a 2x4. 

“Umm, I mean. I don’t know my plans just yet, but….maybe?” Grace said suddenly. Where were these words coming from? Grace had planned on taking some classes at the community college in the fall to get her bearings for the next step, but the Spirit Bird thing had kind of thrown things off course for her. Her grades were good enough to get into local schools according to her advisor but she didn’t know if she was ready to leave just yet. 

“Think about it. The tribe has money set aside to help tribe members relocate to the rez and find a home here. I’m sure Paul would love it, and you clearly belong here.” Emily nudged her on that last one. 

“Thanks, yeah. I’ll-I’ll think about it.” Grace said. Suddenly there was a flurry of activity around her as the rest of the tribe drew near for the lighting of the bonfire. Paul had come over and handed her a drink before taking her back to their spot. 

As the council members gave updates about the tribe, Grace settled into Paul’s side, however she couldn’t help her eyes dancing around the group to see if Jake would show. When she and Emily were talking, Quil and Embry were close by discussing Jake’s whereabouts. Apparently he’d been gone for a couple days now. Grace breathed a sigh of relief that he might not yet know that she and Paul were a thing. She wasn’t ashamed, she just wanted to be in this happy bubble a little while longer. 

But her bubble quickly burst when she saw just outside the ring of people, Jacob’s towering frame, arms crossed and looking toward the fire. She made eye contact with him for a half a second trying to keep her thoughts clear before laying her head on Paul’s shoulder to continue listening. 

Once the official business was wrapped up, they broke for food—the most fun part of bonfire night. 

“Want me to grab you something?” Paul said eagerly, a hand lightly placed around her waist. 

“Sure! Whatever you’re getting just grab me some. I’m going to make the rounds,” Grace gestured over her shoulder to a waiting crowd looking in her direction. 

“Go on, Spirit Bird,” he kissed her forehead and let her slip away toward the group. She was greeted cheerfully by the throng of people waiting to receive her. 

Grace noticed more and more that part of her role as Spirit Bird was not just the connecting link between the wolves that made them work better together, or the fact that she could provide protection with her shield and whatever other abilities waited under the surface, but she was also an emotional and spiritual conduit for her tribe. By even just conversing, sharing details with her, sharing emotions, connecting through touch and eye contact, Grace could relieve some of their anxiety, pain, grief, or worry. The best way that she could describe it was that she felt craved by the tribe. 

So she took her time moving from circle to circle, checking in, exchanging hugs and forehead touches, just being with the people who loved her. This also gave Grace immense relief and she felt so needed here that Emily’s suggestion of moving to the rez after graduation didn’t sound so crazy. Paul’s eyes followed her every now and then, keeping track of her in the crowd until she reached the outer edge where Ti’Hal was milling about with some children. 

Grace made her way to her and crouched next to her letting her know she was there by placing a hand on her arm and smiling warmly, not needing to communicate verbally. Ti’Hal returned the smile and then stood. She cupped her hands warmly on Grace’s face and said: 

“Little bird, you seem happy.” 

“I am,” Grace almost choked out. 

“That’s good dear.” Suddenly, Ti’Hal’s eyes were distracted over Grace’s shoulder toward the treeline. Grace turned to see Jake just standing off outside of trees. His eyes pulled at Grace and she felt that familiar tug in her middle that had been absent for awhile since she hadn’t seen him. She looked back to Ti’Hal wanting to stay with her and pretend like she hadn’t seen him. Not yet, not yet. The voice in Grace’s head begged. Ti’Hal gave her a knowing look and once again pulled her face down to hers, pressing their foreheads together. 

“You are both trying so hard to be different people. Why must you draw out fate like this?” 

“What?” Grace said incredulous. Two seconds ago Ti’Hal had acknowledged how happy she was and now she was trying to be someone different? 

“Little bird, youth carries you now, but don’t fight it for too long or you both will suffer.” Ti’Hal let go of her face seriously and moved back across the lawn toward the elders. Grace stood up straight, shocked. 

“What the hell-” 

“Can I talk to you?” Grace nearly shot out of her skin at the request behind her. She whipped around coming face to face with Jake, a pleading but strong look on his face. Her bubble had indeed, spectacularly burst. 

Grace looked around her immediate vicinity for any sign of Paul. She knew two things for sure: 1) If he saw her with Jake, he’d come immediately to her rescue and 2) if he found her with Jake there might be hell to pay. 

Not seeing Paul anywhere nearby and the throng of the tribe separating them from the immediate sight line of the bonfire, she nodded with a terse ‘fine’ and followed him as he led her to the forest. 

They went just inside the treeline, maybe 40 yards in, where they could still hear the bustle of the of bonfire and the see the light of the flames. Jake turned and Grace kept a good bit of distance between them so that nothing could be misconstrued if they were happened upon by a member of the pack. 

“Yes?” Grace said a little irritated. Jake shook his head and scowled at that. 

“Really?” He shot back. Okay, so this was going to be a fight. Grace thought to herself. 

“What, Jake? I haven’t heard from you or seen you in days, what could you possibly want?” Grace was mostly irritated because that tug that she had quieted was roaring back trying to pull them together like a magnet and she felt it’s discomfort by refusing it. 

“Oh please. So I’m gone a few days and you immediately shack up with Paul?” He regretted the words as soon as they left his mouth and tried quickly to back track when he saw the outraged, open mouthed look on Grace’s face, “I just mean...I just want to know: Are you guys officially dating or what?” 

“Jesus, Jake. This is what you wanted to ask me? Yes, Paul is my boyfriend. And you could have asked me that in front of him instead of playing this secret hideout game. This is crap, I’m going back,” Grace turned to leave but Jake took an immediate step forward and shouted after her. 

“That’s absolute shit, you know. If you listened to what Ti’Hal said-” 

“And what did Ti’Hal say to YOU, EXACTLY?” Grace interjected swinging around and letting anger color her voice clearly. He had no right. 

“Exactly what she told you. If you listened to yourself, you’d know that being with Paul is just going to end up a mess. Grace. At some point...he’s going to im-” 

“And who am I supposed to be with instead?” Grace said, taking quick steps forward and closing the gap between them. She couldn’t stifle her anger any longer. She wanted to kill him, wanted to hurt him, wanted him to feel bad for saying all of these things to her when she was happy. She came right up to him and shouted, “You?! I’m supposed to be with you?” 

Jacob didn’t move, didn’t wince, just stared down at Grace like he wanted to speak. 

“Because last I checked, you were still hung up on Bella. And I have a boyfriend.” Jacob grimaced at the mention of Bella and looked away for a second. Hurting him like this didn’t give Grace the satisfaction she was hoping for and she faltered some, anger dissolving into sadness. 

“I’m happy Jake. Let me be happy. Please, please, please. Please.” Tears stung at her eyes as she begged without looking at him. He reached for her now and whispered, “Grace.” before touching her arms and trying to pull her into a hug. Grace shoved away from him, not letting herself get caught in this again. 

“NO!” she bellowed putting more distance between them again. And it was just at this moment that she heard a booming voice come up behind her. 

“Grace!” the voice shouted. She couldn’t tell if it’s intonation was one of recognition, concern, or anger, but she was going to bet it was probably all three. Paul was in front of her in a second, pushing Jacob in the chest, “Back up!” 

“Screw you, Paul.” Jacob shot back, the anger returning. “We’re just talking.” 

“I’m going to tell you this once and only once: if you touch her again, you’re going to regret it.” Paul returned, seething anger building in his voice. Grace took a step forward to interject. 

“She’s not your property, Paul. She’s here for everyone.” 

“She’s MINE. She’s MY girlfriend. And the sooner you understand that the more likely you are to remain intact, alpha-reject.” Paul shot back. 

“Paul, that’s enough!” Grace said stepping forward and grabbing onto his arm. He yanked it free from her to her surprise and pushed Jake again, who pushed him back. Both of their bodies shook violently. 

Jared and Embry crashed into focus and pushed between them, separating them from one another. 

“Paul, get a grip,” Jared warned, pushing him back toward Grace. Embry was leaning into Jacob talking quietly to him and Jacob seemed to gain his composure. “Take Grace and get out of here.” Jared tried to command. Paul made eye contact with Jared for a second before shaking himself free and quickly turning to roughly grab Grace around the shoulders and steering her back toward the treeline muttering, “We’re leaving.” 

Once out past the treeline and in sight of the car, Grace shook Paul off of her and gave him a scathing look before treading quick ahead to swing around at him, “Paul what the fuck?!” 

“Get in the car.” he said solidly, not stopping. “I’m taking you home.” 

Grace turned to watch him climb into the car and waited for a half second, the look he gave her made her want to dissolve. “Grace!” he yelled impatiently. She gave in and walked to the car yanking the passenger door open and climbing inside, crossing her arms. 

When Paul pulled into his drive, Grace perked up and said half confused, “I thought you were taking me home?” 

Paul didn’t say anything and just got out of his car and walked into his house. Grace sat in the car for a moment, readying herself for a fight before taking a deep breath and pushing her door open. Paul had left the front door open and she walked through closing it behind her, trying to calm her nerves. Paul was at the sink drinking a glass of water. 

Grace waited for him to speak first. 

“Why is it that whenever I don’t know where you are, I find out that you’re somewhere alone with Jacob Black every time?” Paul said, his voice even but hurt and anger still clearly etched in his tone. Grace’s hands shook a little bit from the nerves. 

The ache in Grace was growing after seeing Jake and leaving him so quickly again. She hated this part, so she tried hard to quiet it again, but Paul wasn’t playing ball. 

“Paul, that’s not what that was and you know it. He was asking if we were together and I said yes we very much were and that he was an idiot and could have asked me that in front of you.” 

Paul watched her with a critical eye and dumped the rest of the water down the sink before coming into the living room and leaning against the wall. 

“Part of me laying claim was to assure everyone that you’re mine. But for whatever reason, Jake doesn’t seem to respect those boundaries so I need your help there.” Paul was calmer now but not coming near her. 

“I did tell him we were together.” 

“That’s not enough.” Paul said quickly. Grace closed her mouth quickly not sure what to say next. What else was she supposed to do? Her arms hung limply at their sides. As if on cue, Paul said: “You can’t be alone with him.” Pain shot through Grace on this request. 

“How am I supposed to-?” Grace started and Paul let out an annoyed hiss before turning down the hallway toward his bedroom, “Paul! I’m talking to you!” 

He swung around, the anger back, “I asked you something very simple. For us to work, I need you to make the boundary clear because CLEARLY the line gets blurred when you two are alone together. I’m not blaming you. I’m asking you to choose me. Like I chose you, Grace. Fuck!” he yelled turning back down the hallway. He disappeared into his bedroom and Grace heard the shower turn on. She put a hand to her head trying to hold back her tears. 

How was she supposed to stay away from Jake when everything in her pulled her toward him? But something Paul had said was right: the lines got blurred and that wasn’t fair to him. If she wanted this work, she had to do this. And she desperately wanted this to work. 

Grace tread softly down the hallway, removing her sweater and jeans as she went. She was completely naked by the time she reached his bathroom door and hesitated, her hand hovering over the door knob. She’d promise him, she told herself. 

She gently opened the door and climbed in the shower behind him, wrapping her arms around his torso, before saying: “Okay. I promise.” 

Paul turned around and cupped his hand under her chin so she’d make eye contact with him. 

“For real, Grace. I need a solid promise.”

“Paul. I promise. I won’t be alone with him ever.” she said clearly, water streaming in rivulets down her face. He nodded satisfied with her answer before leaning down to lock her in with a kiss. Their shower quickly devolved into Paul carefully carrying Grace to bed, both of them slick with warm water. 

He buried his head between her legs and worked in there, pulling gasps and moans from Grace as she held tightly at his short hair. As she pulsed toward climax, one face lingered behind her closed lids as she lost herself in pleasure: Jacob’s scowl, Jacob’s pleading face, Jacob’s hands reaching for her arms and leaving scorching heat just from a soft tentative touch. She shivered with release and then Paul was above her, moving into her and washing away the pictures from her head. She bit her lower lip and focused, guilt flooding her instantly. 

[rae-arts777]

A Heart That Needs Two

Summary: Dorothy and Makoto both are after Laurent’s heart. Laurent is very much aware, their advances aren’t a secret, but he can’t bring himself to choose. Makoto and Dorothy come up with a solution.

Notes: first time writing a ship dynamic like this, also happy Valentines. AU where Dorothy is with TC

~~~~~~~~~~~

Laurent hid himself in Cythina’s room. Today was valentines. He knew two certain people would be looking for him, so he hid in Cythina’s room, his room was too obvious. He wasn’t exactly sure what was going to happen, fearing he might be forced to picked.

“How much longer are you going to avoid them?” Cythina asked.

“Until this holiday is over.” Laurent plopped himself onto a love seat in her room.

She shook her head, throwing a box of chocolates to him, from the pile of gifts she received.

It was no secret to the whole Team Confidence that both Dorothy and Makoto were after Laurent. It was no secret Laurent liked them both, but couldn’t bring himself to chose.

Since Dorothy and Laurent had broken up, a few years back, their realtionship as friends started to build itself back up. They got to actually know each other, in a more healthy way. Through that healthy build up, Dorothy found herself falling for Laurent for real this time, feeling like she could love him, and not forcing herself just cause he loved her.

A few years went by and Makoto joined the team. Makoto wasn’t stupid, he knew his father was doing something else on his so called “business” trips. Soon he was introduced to TC, and given his a chance to prove himself in a con. Much to Oz’s dismay, Makoto begged him to allow him to join. Of course Miki smacked her husband when she found out he had allowed Makoto to join.

Makoto and Laurent’s dynamic was just natural. They worked well, they bounce off of each other. Makoto found himself admiring everything about the Belgian man. From 3 years since Makoto joined the team, he had fully fallen for Laurent.

Laurent was in a dilema. Dorothy was his first love, it be foolish to say he didn’t still love her. He was hoping they would be able to try again as they grew closer as friends. However, the addition of Makoto threw a wrench into his plan. He didn’t expect to connect to the Japanese man so fast. He didn’t expect their dynamic would be so natural. Something about Makoto drew him in. Before Laurent knew it, he had fallen for Makoto, but his feelings for Dorothy were still strongly there.

Cythina threw a pillow at Laurent, snapping him out of his daze.

“Dorothy texted me asking if I’ve seen you” she held up her phone.

Laurent sighed “of course she did”

“Oh look Makoto just sent me a text asking me the same thing” she checked her messages

“You’re telling me to just suck it up huh?” Laurent asked

“Yes. You can’t avoid them forever.” She told him bluntly “no matter how hard you try to avoid it, you’re going to have to talk to them”

Laurent sighed slowly getting up “I don’t want to hurt either of them”

“Love is a risk Laurent. You know that more then anyone. Just do what you think is best”

Laurent nodded slowly leaving her room. He walked into the living, to find Makoto and Dorothy in the kitchen together. They both looked at him and smiled.

“Laurie!!” Dorothy ran over and hugged him “we’ve been looking for you everywhere, were you hiding from us? Meanie” she pouted

Laurent chuckled hugging her back “no, I was just chatting with Cythina”

Makoto came over handing Laurent a cup of coffee “beans I got in Colombia, hope you like them”

“If you picked them im sure they’re wonderful soybean” Laurent winked and took a sip of the coffee. Laurent couldn’t help but smile, Makoto knew how Laurent liked his coffee.

“Edamame and I were thinking the three of us can hang out on the beach. It’s such a nice day to be outside” Dorothy tugged at his arm.

Laurent looked at her, seeing how big and brightly she smiled at him. How can he say no?

An hour later, the trio were on the beach together. Dorothy wore a pink bikini with a cute sun hat she had gotten in France. Makoto wore his red swim trucks with a lose white tank top. Laurent wore just his blue trucks, his sunglasses resting on his head.

Dorothy dragged Laurent into the water while Makoto finished setting up. Dorothy started to splash him laughing, resulting in Laurent chasing her to splash her back. Makoto sat in the shade watching the two.

“Edamame! Join us!!” Laurent waved

“I’m good thanks” Makoto said

Dorothy and Laurent looked at each other, an evil grin spreading across both their faces. The two dashed over and picked up Makoto. Dorothy grabbing his legs, and Laurent picking him up from the torso.

“WAIT NO”

The two swung the soybean back and forth, counting down from 5 together. On one, they flung Makoto into the water. Makoto went flying, his screaming cut off by the splash into the water.

He popped his head out coughing, Laurent and Dorothy laughing their asses off.

“YOU ASSHOLES!” Makoto splashed them both.

Dorothy pushed Laurent back in, using him as a shield.

“HEY!” Laurent yelled, enduring all of Makoto’s splashes

Dorothy held onto Laurent’s back laughing. Makoto charged at them both, and jumped at Laurent, knocking all of them over.

The trio fell back into the shallow area, all laughing as small tides washed over them.

Dorothy and Makoto laid on opposite ends of Laurent, both draping their arms across his chest. Laurent had both his arms wrapped around them. He looked down at both of them, he smiled widely. How could he even chose?

They all sat up, Dorothy locking eyes with Makoto, both nodding at each other.

“Laurie, we have something to tell you”

A knot tighten in Laurent’s stomach. He knew what was coming.

“You probably know Dorothy and I both have feelings for you.” Makoto said.

Laurent nodded, gulping down the lump in his throat. He looked back between the two, how can he chose? Who should he chose? Why was it him who had to pick?

“And well..the two of us have been talking a lot” Dorothy explained. She reached off and held Makoto’s hand “and...neither of us wants to give you up to the other”

Laurent’s heart was racing. He couldn’t handle the thought of losing either of them.

“So we decided” Makoto looked at him. “That if it’s ok with you and if you’re comfortable with it, if we can both date you.”

“Look...Makoto, Dorothy I-“ Laurent cut himself off, did he hear Makoto right? “Wait I’m sorry what?”

“We both want to date you” Makoto explained

“At the same time” Dorothy smiled

Laurent looked between the two, a bit confused

“Again! This is only if you’re ok with the idea” Dorothy told him “we’ve already talk about it, and the two of us are ok with sharing you, but this is also your choice Laurie. We don’t want to push you into something you’re not comfortable with” she explained

Laurent took a moment to take it all in. “What about the two of you? Are you two also going to be? You know?”

“No” Makoto said “we talked about that but we don’t like each other that way.”

Laurent nodded and took a deep breathe. He didn’t expect this at all. The two looked at him waiting an answer. He didn’t have to chose. He didn’t mind, it was worth a shot, it didn’t hurt to try.

“And you two are hundred precent sure you’re ok with this?” Laurent asked

“Yes” they both said at the same time.

Laurent smiled and nodded “ok”

A big smile spread across Dorothy’s face. Blush spread across Makoto’s face, smiling like a dork. The two pushed the Belgian man down and pecked at his cheeks smiling.

Laurent chuckled wrapping an arm around Dorothy’s waist and another across Makoto’s shoulder. He looked at the sky smiling wondering where this will lead them.

That day was 5 years ago.

Laurent woke up in a king size bed. He felt two bodies smushed against him. On his left, Makoto was curled up to his side, on his right, Dorothy was against him, the rest of her body sprawled out as she snored.

Laurent carefully untangled himself from the two of them. He carefully got up, trying hard to not wake neither of his partners.

Heading to the kitchen, he started breakfast. Their house in France had a nice view of the village they lived in. Laurent felt their cat rubbed against his leg, before it went back to its cat post.

As he set the table, Laurent looked at the two rings on his finger. He smiled and brought his hand to his lips, placing a soft kiss on each ring.

He felt two arms wrap around him. Without having to look he already knew who it was.

“Morning soybean” Laurent held his hands.

“Morning..” Makoto lazily pecked at his back, then pulling away to go make some coffee.

Dorothy stumbled into the kitchen still half asleep. She drug herself to Laurent, falling onto his chest.

“Morning sunshine” Laurent pecked her head.

Dorothy grumbled a good morning, clinging to his chest. She looked at him, eyes still half closed “happy anniversary..” she yawned

Makoto came back handing Laurent his coffee and pecking his cheek “happy anniversary”

Laurent smiled, putting his coffee down and pulled Makoto into his hold as well “happy anniversary my loves”

[marktuansvevo]

warning(s); slight cursing, 90s au, lapslock

word count; 1299

another’s note; hi loves and happy halloween! i hope everybody is having fun and staying safe! here’s part two of the autumn dates collection! i hope you all enjoy <3

“I haven’t ridden a bike in so long,” you said to jaebeom as you snuggled the phone between your cheek and shoulder. you played with the cord as you let the man on the other side talk you into a fifth date with him (not that it took much convincing).

“cmon, y/n, no one forgets how to ride a bike,” you could hear him laughing at your statement. “its almost winter, we should enjoy the pretty fall weather. please?” he paused, waiting for an answer. “I’ll even buy you ice cream, darling.”

you couldn’t help but giggle at the onslaught of butterflies that just erupted in your lower tummy at the petname he just called you.

“okay...fine. but I want to rent a pink bike.”

“done and done. pick you up on saturday at 2?”

“sounds perfect.”

“okay, see you soon, darling,” you know he purposefully drew out the word. he knew exactly how to make your cheeks red and you loved that about him.

today was the first date you hadn’t been at least sorta dressed up to see jaebeom. you were nervous that he wouldn’t like you in some adidas shorts and a ponytail, but as if on cue, jaeboem knocked on the door, pulling you out of your insecure thoughts. you smiled before throwing your arms around him. you didn’t care if it was too early. you weren’t even official yet....but he made you feel things you never knew you could feel.

“missed you, beom,” you whispered, letting him hold you.

“missed you too,” you saw his cheeks were dusted a light pink at your actions. “now cmon, we’re burning daylight!!”

you let him take your hand and lead you to his beat up pickup truck, where he opened the door for you. you blushed. you felt like a teenager. no person had ever made you feel this special, and you didn’t want this feeling to end anytime soon.

“now, I picked a trail that isn’t too hilly, since you haven’t been biking in a minute. and it’s only four miles from that ice cream place I was telling you about.”

“you really think of everything, huh?” you marveled out loud, looking out the window as you hummed along to only wanna be with you which was playing on the radio. jaeboem looked over at you before taking your hand and kissing it as he sang along, “been looking for a girl like you.”

the rest of the ride to the park was spent like that, jaebeom’s thumb tracing patterns on the back of your hand while the two of you shyly sang top 40 songs.

you both walked into the cute little bike shop. “hi, how can we help you?” the salesmen asks.

“we just wanted to rent some bikes for the afternoon. oh, do you have any pink bikes in my girl’s size? that’s what she’s demanding.”

“hey!!”

“she literally won’t go on this date if you don’t have one man, you gotta help me out,” your boyfriend said to the salesman who hooted. “I happen to have one in your size, maam, if you wanna follow me.”

“it’s perfect! thank you so much, now I can confidently go on this date,” you played along as boem paid the man and walked out of the shop.

“pink really is your color, darling.”

“you’re just saying that to make me blush,” you said as you blushed. he sniggered.

“I can’t help that you’re cute. now cmon, let’s hit the trail.”

the trail was beautiful and really let you clear your head of any thoughts that didn’t involve the man in front of you. you looked out at the river, at the trees with pretty orange, red and yellow leaves hanging on them, at the elderly couple walking their dog. it was one of those days where nothing could bring down your mood....it was serendipitous...

...until the frog.

jaebeom had told you that you were close to the ice cream stand about five minutes ago. you were thinking about mint chocolate chip when all of a sudden, a bull frog hops in front of your path. you let out a scream and swerved out of the frogs way,  crashing your bike in the process.

“y/n!” jaebeom exclaimed. “oh my god are you okay.”

do not cry do not cry do not cry, you willed yourself as you looked down at the blood pouring out of both your knees. you would not be dramatic on your fifth date with this wonderful person.

“I...I’m okay...”

“oh, honey that looks like it hurts....” he said softly. “hey, there’s a general store right next to the ice cream parlor. I’ll be back with some antiseptic and bandaids, okay?”

“don’t take too long,” you whispered.

you watched as he jogged over the the store. it was a good twenty minutes before he came jogging back.

“okay, I got a washcloth and antiseptic, and a water bottle. will you let me clean it, y/n?”

you just nodded your head. “it hasn’t stopped bleeding since you left.”

“this might sting, darling. tell me if it hurts.” jaebeom pours some water onto the washcloth, cleaning your wound. as soon as the blood stopped flowing out of the scrapes, jaeboem squeezes a generous amount of the medicine onto his pointer and middle fingers before applying it to your open wound. you winced are the sting, begging yourself not to cry once more. you don’t even know why you were so worked up.

jaebeom didn’t even look up as he continued to apply the medicine, which you were grateful for as tears freely flowed down your face. “alright, how’s that feel- oh, y/n are you crying?? did that hurt too bad?”

“I..I’m sorry i don’t know why im so worked up. I just...” you sighed as he pulled you into his lap, wrapping your arms around his neck to hide. “I feel like a fucked this whole  date up. and now you have a crying girl in your lap,” he shushed you gently, placing a kiss to your temple.

“darling, you didn’t fuck anything up. im still having fun, just sitting here admiring the pretty trees with the prettiest girl in the world, you know?” he wiped your tears away, smiling a bit. “now stop crying. you know what else I bought at the store?”

“hm?”

“one of those cheap, disposable cameras. I wanted to commemorate this day,” he smiled wide. “because I wanted to have a picture of us the day I asked you to officially be my girlfriend.”

“wait, really?” your smile widened. “are you being serious, beom?”

“of course I am!! should I not have?” he asked with a pout.

“oh, jaebeom of course I will be!” you giggled before pulling him into you and kissing him fully on the lips. he tasted like cinnamon. you just realized it was your first kiss with him. he smiled against your lips.

“mmm, you taste sweet, baby,” he teased, pecking your lips once more. “now, lean in to me so I can take our picture.” you leaned in close to him, smiling at the camera as he placed a kiss to your cheek. your eyes were probably closed from happy embarrassment.

“when you develop those, will you make me a copy?”

“sure, baby. now cmon, let me buy you some mint chocolate ice cream.”

“uhhh..mint choco? no thanks baby, I’ll stick with pumpkin.”

your boyfriend (that had a nice ring to it, you thought to yourself) looked at you with a look of distaste. “ohhh...I retract my offer to be your boyfriend.”

“hey!!”

[littlebitoffanfic]

Insanity

Fandom: Texas Chainsaw Massacre Characters: Nubbins, Drayton, Bubba Relationship: Nubbins/reader Request: Hi could you do another Nubbinsxreader ? Maybe about him falling in love with one of the victims and the victim likes him back? Thanks When your cousins friend pulled over for the hitchhiker, you couldn’t help but be totally mesmerised by this strange person who had clambered into the back of the van. He saw next to you while the others squeezed up towards the front of the van. The only reason you had came on this stupid road trip with your cousin and her 3 friends was because you were going to jump off somewhere and start fresh. You hated them with a passion. Stuck up adult children with little sense of what others might go through in their life’s when their mommy and daddy aren’t footing the bill. Like this man, he was obviously having a hard time and you had done your best to pull over and let him in. He was very smiley, chuckling every now and again as the van kept silent. Suddenly, he started to ruffle through his bag and turn to you. “Look, look here.” He pulled out a camera and raised it up, taking two quick succession snap shots of you. you blinked, but unable to stop yourself from laughing at the strange action. the prints came out and he quickly grabbed them, placing them to the side. “Why did you take her picture?” Mark, your cousins boyfriend pipped up. “Pretty girl, pretty, picture.” He held up the photo which was actually rather nice. The shock hadn’t fully hit you so you just looked a little quizzical. It certainly wasn’t the worse picture of you in the world. “Good picture, see.” He held it up to Mark who quickly reached out to snatch it out of the mans hand but he was quicker. “Not yours, hers.” He growled, sounding rather aggressive before holding the picture out to you. You smiled and took it. “but didn’t he take two?” Your cousin asked and you could tell the line of questioning along with the disgusted looks were getting on the mans nerves. “No, he just took one. It’s a double flash camera.” You lie through your teeth, knowing there was no such think but the group let out a collective ‘ahh’ as if they knew. You send the man a knowing smirk as you turned back to him and he seemed to be beaming at you. “Do you do a lot of photography?” you ask, moving a little closer to him. “Yeah, yeah!” Back into his bag he went and pulled out a bundle of photos. “use to work at the slaughter house.” He presented the photos to you and you took them. The photos were of various cattle in the different stages of being processed. “Really? How long were you there for?” you ask, flipping through the photos in fascination. It always interested you in some morbid way. “Since a child, since I was young. My brother worked there, and my pap. Family worked there.” He spouted off, seemingly enjoying talking about it. “Whats that?” you ask, holding a photo up to him. It was of a dead cow with a strange machine in the back ground. He shuffled closer to you and you pointed to what you were asking about. “Grinder. Grind up the meat real good. Make mince, and burgers. No bones can go in though. Not bones.” He tapped the photo a few times to emphasise the point. “Ive never seen one that big before. Must have been dangerous to work with.” You comment. Someone could easily lose an entire arm in there. “Can we stop talking about dead things and meat.” Your cousin started to moan as she grimaced. The man frowned at her but dropped his gaze and looked back at you. You rolled your eyes and offered him the pictures back. “sorry.” You said in a low voice so the others would hear. he took the photos and stuffed them back in his bag. You noticed him take the spare photo of you and put it in a little sack that hung around his neck. “Do you know where theres a gas station?” Simon, who had been driving the entire time, called back. “yeah, yeah, up ahead. Keep following the road. About a mile.” The man points forward, so eager to give directions. “And where are you needing dropped off?” your cousin snapped at the man. “[c/n]!” You snapped back, angry at her for being so rude. “I can get out there.” The man smiles, looking at you. He was playing about with something in his bag. Suddenly, he grabbed your hand and hauled you towards him, holding your palm face up. From his bag, he drew a blade and bought it across your palm. It wasn’t deep but it was terrifying. You heard everyone scream and Mark jumped forward, pulling the guy off you. in turn, the guy sliced his own palm as if he intended to make some blood brother promise. Simon slammed on the breaks and Mark opened the door, pushing the man and his belongings out onto the side of the road. But, for some reason, you couldn’t scream. Your hand was pulsing with pain and you couldn’t believe what just happened to you. Simon stepped on the gas and the van flew off. The man ran along side it, slamming into the side and smearing his bloodied hand over the side. But soon the van picked up enough speed. “Are you happy we picked him up now?!” Mark snapped at you, none of them really caring that you were bleeding badly. You wrapped your hand in a clean hand towel you had bought just in case. And yet, you couldn’t pull your mind away from the man. You didn’t even know his name. The others were debating about stopping at all to get gas but Simon said they had to. maybe you could ask the attendants there if they knew about the mysterious man. Soon enough, you pulled into a gas station. There were two men stepped out. Simon told the man to fill it up but the man told him the gas truck was running later and would hopefully be here within the day. You were the last to get out the van, and your hand caught the guys attention as the others debated about what to do. “what happened to your hand there?” He asked, coming up to you. “We picked up a hitchhiker. I think he took a liking to me.” You tried to shrug it off as a job. “Seems so.” The man hummed himself as his eyes fell on the blood on the side of the van. “You wouldn’t happen to know his name? he said hes from around here, and his family worked at the slaughter house.” You asked, keeping your voice low which he obviously noticed. “Don’t want your friends hearing?” he asked, dropping his voice. “There not my friends. I only came along so I can hop out somewhere and start a new life. I cant stand them.” You roll your eyes, especially when you heard the two girls squabbling once again. “Aint nothing like them, are you?” The man asked again, an eye brow raised. “No, they think im strange and weird.” You confess. “Aint nothing wrong with being weird. Most of the folks out here are weird.” The man looks around the area although there was nothing but the station. “thanks.” You smile. “I’d hug you, but im guessing you don’t want blood all over your shirt.” This got a chuckle from the man. “Nah, better not. Damn near impossible to get out of white.” He looks down at the white shirt he wore in distant. “Ive heard vinegar is good for getting blood out.” You muse, looking back to the group. “Really?” The man replies after a long pause. “listen, could you do me a favour?” “I can try.” You look back to him. “get yer friends, er, acquaintance , to stay around here for a bit. But you stay inside the station.” The man ducks down, nearly whispering to you. “Why?” you ask, frowning in confusion. “You want a new start? I can offer you one, if yer willing to work for it.” The man raised an eye brow at you. “What sort of work?” You cocked your head, very aware of the sort of work some pervs might ask you for. “Helping my brothers keep out of trouble. Maybe staying here now and then as well as some light house work.” He nodded to the station when necessary before looking back to you. “But there might be some… unsavoury things you had to see.” You paused, weighing your options. It would certainly get you out of the pickle you were in with the others, and spending a few months in the Texas heat did sound kinda nice. Plus, that curious part of you, the one that found the hitchhiker to be absolutely fascinating, wanted to know more. “Okay.” You agreed. “good. Im Drayton. You get in any sort of trouble at all, you tell ‘em my name.” he held out his hand and you took it with your not bloodied one. “[y/n].” You introduced yourself with a smile. -------time skip ------------- As requested, you persuaded the others to stay close by. They wanted to sunbath and you said you were feeling a bit queasy and went inside with Drayton and his assistant. The occasionally checked in with you but more to see if the gas truck was on its way. And then, after a few hours, it stopped. You looked out the window and you couldn’t see them. Frowning, you ducked your head a little to see if it was just the angle you were at. “Time to shut up shop.” Drayton walked in. it was nearly nightfall and his assistant had went home long ago. “What about the gas truck?” you asked, turning to him. Drayton dropped your gaze, busing himself with gather his coat. “There is no gas truck.” You stated, rather than ask as you walked up to him. “Now, now, listen-“ he seemed to get himself riled up, like he expected you to freak out and run. But you were intrigued. “Are we still going? Should I grab my things from the van?” You asked, keeping your voice sweet and calm. When he heard you, it certainly calmed him down. “yeah, come on.” The two of you walked out to his truck. He got into the driver and you jumped up into the passenger. “now, if you see that hitchhiker again, duck. Don’t need him running after my truck again.” Drayton told you as he started up the engine. “You do know him?” you asked, growing more and more curious. “yeah, don’t worry. You’ll be seeing him again.” Drayton seemed to smirk at you. he obviously knew a lot more than he was letting on. He drove out and down a side road which lead to a long path to a white house in the center. And walked down that path was the very man who had totally taken over your thoughts since you first met him. You slid down in your seat as you had been told to do. But it seems you being in the truck wasn’t what stated him running alongside. You couldn’t help but laugh. “Does he do that with every car?” You ask Drayton. “Just my damn truck. Thinks its funny.” Drayton said through gritted teeth as you sat further up once the van was past him. But when you pulled up outside the house, the man was at Draytons door. “Did, did yah keep the girl?! The one-“ He started to stutter over himself, seeming as excited as a child at Christmas. “yeah, yeah, shes in the truck.” Drayton pushed him away as he got out of the truck. In a flash, the man appeared at your side, opening the door. He wrapped his arms around you and pulled you out, carrying you while he kicked the door closed. He let you down but kept a hold of your hand as he pulled you towards the house. “Hang on a damn minute!” Drayton called out but it apparently landed on deaf ears as he continued to pull you inside the house. “BUBBA!” He screams into the house, and you heard movement within the house. Someone came out of a side room and you felt fear flood your body. The man, Bubba, was massive with a bloodied apron and a mask. He let out a scared whine and seemed to panic. “No, no, no. Shes staying.” He put himself between you both as he calmed down Bubba. You couldnt speak as you watched the stranger interaction. In fact, you were in a daze until Drayton came in behind you. “He’s right. She’s gonna stay and help with the business.” Drayton walked past you all into the kitchen. “If she can stomach it.” You felt the eeriness of the house take over you as you looked around. It was old and unkept but could be beautiful. There were bones and feather scattered around the place. You totally missed what happened between bubba and the guy, whos name you still didn’t know. “I don’t know.” He said in a confused voice, as if it was stupid not to. He turned to you. “What’s your name?” “[y/n].” You told him, amused. “nice, that’s a nice name.” He nodded frantically before trying to pull you into the house, but you dug your heels into the ground. “Wait, I don’t even know your name.” You laugh at his eagerness. “Oh, its Nubbins.” He called over his shoulder, still trying to pull you forward as Bubba was called by Drayton. “Nubbins?” You laughed a little at the strange name. “Wait, wait two seconds.” He kind of reminded you of an excited child in the way he moved sometimes. “wait, can you at least tell me why you cut my hand.” You pulled back, managing to free your hand from his. Your cut hand had been seen to by Drayton, who had wrapped it up nicely in clean bandages for you. “Oh, didn’t hurt you too badly. Tried not to.” He turned to you, taking your bandaged hand in his own as he looked it over and seemed genuinely concerned. “No, its okay now. Stings a little.” You comfort him a little. “That’ll stop. Always does.” He shows you his own hand which was unseen to and still bloodied but dry. You gasped, pulling his hand closer to you as you tried to see if he had cut himself deep. “Had to mark yah so cook knew not to harm you. so, you can stay here.” This time, his voice wasn’t filled with the same level of energy as before. He spoke more mature, and with genuine worry. “Do you choose a lot of girls?” You ask as you don’t dare look up at him. “No, aint ever met one like you before.” His words draw your attention back up to meet his gaze. “Well, it would seem I owe you a great debt, considering what I think might have happened to the others.” You couldnt help but smile a little as you looked at him. It was totally insane. Everything was. Any rational, sane person wouldn’t leave her friends for dead to run off with some hitchhiker she just met. But you weren’t like any other girl. You were willing to fall into this strange world he pulled you to, ready to embrace the good and the bad parts. “Hmmm.” He raised his unhurt hand to head, scratching his scalp in fake thought. “A kiss would certainly clear your debt.” you saw the small twinkle in his eyes as well as the smile on his lips. You couldn’t say no. “Sounds a fair trade.” You smirk before leaning forward and pressing your lips to his. He jumped, obviously not expecting you to accept so quickly. In fact, he stood there for a moment seemed lost in your lips before finally kissing you back. His arms twisted around your waist and he pulled you against his body. “Bubba, you idiot, yer gonna burn it.” You heard shouted from the kitchen by Drayton, but it was enough to make you jump and pull away. “Don’t worry ‘bout him. Leaves all the dirty work up to me and Bubba.” Nubbins laughed slightly, refusing to let you go, not that you minded. “Oh, well I better keep on your good side.” You smirk, cuddling against his and resting your head on his shoulder. Whatever crazed world you had stepped into, you didn’t know and didn’t really care. Maybe you were just as insane as Nubbins on some level, not that that really mattered in the end. It was complete insanity and you loved it. Beside sanity was always such a fleeting thing.

[formerprincess]

A tale written with fangs and claws || Chapter 55

Chapters: 55/? Fandom: Teen Wolf (TV) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Liam Dunbar/Theo Raeken, Corey Bryant/Mason Hewitt Characters: Liam Dunbar, Theo Raeken, Mason Hewitt, Corey Bryant, Nolan (Teen Wolf) Additional Tags: Alpha Liam Dunbar, Slow Build, Friends to Lovers, Dunbar Pack, Bisexual Liam Dunbar, Werewolf Theo Raeken, Alpha Theo Raeken, Canon-Typical Violence, Smut, Mates, Liam and Theo are mates, Top Theo Raeken, Bottom Theo Raeken, Top Liam, Bottom Liam Dunbar Series: Part 1 of Morning Dew Pack

Now that Theo knows about the house he and Liam can mend their relationship. Happy times ensue.

_______________________________________________________________

“Tell me again how you got the house.” Theo pressed a kiss on top of Liam’s hair and then leaned his forehead against his boyfriend’s temple. He had his arm wrapped around Liam’s shoulders while the couple cuddled in the backseat of the truck after their passionate encounter. Only dressed in boxers this was quite cozy, Liam had to admit. He chuckled. “Didn’t I tell you before?” “I was distracted by this awesome house. Don’t blame me for that. Next time you jump something like that on me, maybe plan this beforehand.” “I doubt there will ever be something as big as this.” “You could bring a kid in the relationship.” Theo shrugged. Liam was stunned. “I thought you didn’t want kids or were not sure about wanting at least.” Theo shrugged again and looked over to the house. “I’m still not sure but we have to fill all those rooms when everybody moves into their own places.” “But we don’t have to fill it with kids.” Liam shook his head and cuddled closer to Theo. “We have all the time in the world for that. For now, let us just enjoy the thought of moving into our new home soon.” Theo smiled softly. “It’s kinda funny. You know how everybody has this image about their future, how they want it to look, no matter how distorted that image might be. If I had to choose a house for my future, I would have picked a house like that, surrounded by nature and so very beautiful.” “You’re turning into a softy,” Liam mocked Theo but he meant it with all the love and respect in the world. Theo knew that and he just teasingly poked Liam into the ribs as retaliation. The Alpha yelped and slapped his mate’s hand away. “Also, I already brought a kid in this relationship. His name is Landon.” “Ah yes, the mini-version of you.” “He is not a mini-version of me.” “Oh, he is. You two are so much alike, it’s heartwarming to see.” “I just want the best for him and his future. If the works here are done, I want him to pick all the furniture he wants for his new room. He may live with Byron and Lana but he should know he also has a home here. And it will be a room suited for a child.” “A good plan,” Theo nodded and stroked over Liam’s arm. “Back to my original request, tell me the story, in full detail now. Don’t be shy.” “I searched online for all kind of realty and came across this agency. They are specialized in finishing houses the way the buyer wants and I liked their past projects so I contacted them. After a phone call and a visit to their office, they accepted me as their client and searched for houses with my preferences. Big gardens, enough rooms, not too luxurious. I didn’t want a mansion.” “Maybe I’d have wanted a mansion with a big pool,” Theo joked. “The house has a pool,” Liam dryly remarked and started to laugh when Theo looked absolutely flabbergasted. “I’m not kidding, there’s a pool in the garden. I have no idea how the original builders planned on doing the thing, seems they started with the fun things first.” He shrugged. “You mean to tell me, our new house has its own pool?” “And a whirlpool.” “And a what??” “Halfway done but it’s there and we decided not to waste the outlets.”

Theo narrowed his eyes at Liam. “How much did you play for this house?” “Let’s say it that way, the amount would have normally made me dizzy but it was not nearly as much as I feared it would be. I even could add some more money to the future fund and the everyday fund. Like I said, if the house would have been finished, it would have been expensive. But with so much work left to do, it was cheap. Cheap for everything you get, I mean.” “Anyway, you hired the agency to look for the perfect house - they did a remarkable job there - and they found you this? Then what?” “I got some information on the house and then I drove here to visit it with the agency lady. Told you about the feeling I had when I saw it. The more she showed me, the more I needed to buy this house. We made a project contract. I paid half of the price in advance, the other half will get payed after everything is done. Which reminds me: I bought this house for us. I want you to own it as much as I do. Wasn’t kidding when I said it’s our money.” “Yeah, I know.” Theo turned his head and kissed Liam’s temple. Liam let himself enjoy the caress for a while, then his stomach grumbled. “Have not eaten much in the morning and I’m starving. Aren’t you hungry?” “I am,” Theo confessed. “Something to eat sounds fine.”

****** They had decided on fries and now sat on the tailgate of the truck in the parking lot of the nearest fast food place a big serving of fries between them.  “When Sadie complained about you being picky, you already had this house, right?” Theo questioned and loaded a few fries with ketchup before guiding them to his mouth. Liam would forever question how his boyfriend managed that without dripping ketchup on his shirt. Even physics loved Theo, it was unbelievable.  “I am committed to surprises, what can I say?” Liam shrugged. “She later apologized for being overbearing. Mike seemingly told her in not so kind words how pretentious it was for assuming I am going to pay for everything. She didn’t mean to come off as leech but I said I’d pay for a new house. It was a part misunderstanding, part annoyance with the current situation. I was just glad to clear the air with her and Mike as well.” “You did pay for a new house, she just doesn’t know it yet.” He sighed. “I know, T.” Stuffing a few fries in his mouth, Liam chewed and considered what was still going to happen to the house. Still so much to do. “I just hope the workers finish fastly and we can move in as soon as possible,” he finally said after he swallowed.  “Liam, you did everything you could. Now we just have to wait as long as it takes. Compared to the thought of forever living on Isaac's couch, this is a piece of cake.”

Theo used a napkin to wipe his greasy fingers and looked around. “Such a pretty car,” he suddenly exclaimed and Liam curiously leaned forward to see what car his mate had spotted.  A beautiful black antique car, convertible hood pulled back because of the warm weather, stood at the stoplight and waited for the green light. It was brightly polished and Liam had no idea about cars but it looked in good condition. He glanced at Theo. “I wasn’t aware you’re into cars.” “I’m not.” The twenty-two-year-old shook his head. “But those cars are beauties and very impressive. I’d love to drive one of those.” “Well, why don’t you?” The looked Theo gave him bordered on scandalized. “Do you have any idea how expensive those cars are? Not so much the cars itself but all the parts. If you have such a car you either take extremely good care of it or you don’t care about it at all and that would be a total waste of money. But most parts are not even available commercially and you need a special merchant for it. Keep in mind those cars are not made for today’s time.” Okay, Liam had not known that. He hesitated. “I didn’t know that, no.” “Always happy to educate you.” Theo reached out, just to be an ass, and petted Liam’s hair. The smirk on his face quickly turned into a frown when Liam pushed him off the tailgate. He sat on the ground and glared at the young Alpha who just smirked himself and slipped off the tailgate. “I’m going to get a milkshake, want something too, honey?” “Don’t call me honey, I hate that nickname. It’s okay when your mother says it but I don’t need it from my partner. Strawberry.” “You want your new nickname to be strawberry?” Liam teased and giggled when Theo threw a napkin at him. The older had gotten to his feet again and was gathering the garbage from the tailgate. He threw it away while Liam went into the restaurant to order their shakes. 

He just had accepted the little cardboard tray with their order when his phone rang and Liam fumbled to open the door, not drop the tray, and pull his phone out of his pocket. “Hello?” “Hello Mr. Dunbar, this is Peyton Russo.” She was the interior manager responsible for the new house.  “Oh, hey, Mrs. Russo, what’s up?” “I’m just calling to inform you the white low couch you picked out is out of stock.” “That’s unfortunate.” Liam had picked the couch for the gallery and it had already been his second choice. He originally went for a dark blue one, exactly the shade of color Theo favorited, but it had been out of stock as well.  Theo curiously tilted his head when Liam now made his way over and Liam drew a tiny house in the air to make him realize what the call was about. Theo raised both eyebrows in acknowledgment and accepted the tray from him.  “But, here are the good news, I found another company who has almost the same couch and it is in the shade you wanted from the beginning. I sent you the pictures to your email, just give me a quick okay and I can pursue it.” “That is cool, thank you so much. I will check it out as soon as I can. Thank you, Mrs. Russo.” “It is my pleasure. I’ll keep you updated on the progress.” Liam hummed and she ended the call. When he pocketed his phone, he smiled at Theo and Theo laughed. “You’re happy!” “Hm, how could I not? Everything turns out exactly how I wanted it to be.” “That sounds perfect.” Theo handed Liam his banana shake and took a sip of his own. Liam watched him but made no move to drink himself. Theo frowned. He didn’t need to voice his question, the young Alpha already knew.  “The most perfect thing is I have you by my side. Roughly a year ago Maya asked if I was okay with her setting up a date for you and I told her we would never be more than friends. I was never happier about being wrong,” he explained. Theo took his sweet time swallowing his sip. “Instead of going on that date, I should have grabbed you and kiss you but I was scared. I was just as wrong as you.” Liam wrapped one arm around Theo and nuzzled his neck. “Glad we could turn it around,” he muttered against the skin and pressed his lips down. Theo sighed happily and his hand slipped in the back pocket of Liam’s jeans to squeeze his ass. 

****** Liam hummed to himself when he cut cucumber and stole some sliced to pluck into his mouth. After their visit to the fast-food place, Theo and he had taken a trip to the grocery store to buy food and now they were in Isaac’s kitchen and prepared dinner together. It was a rare occasion for the two of them to cook together but it was nice nonetheless. 

Theo stepped behind him and wrapped both arms around Liam. “Aren’t you supposed to cut tomatoes?” The young Alpha questioned teasingly but Theo just tightened his hold. “That can wait. This is more important.” He nuzzled Liam’s neck and kissed his shoulder. “I love you so much.” The pack wasn’t at home anyway so yes, food could wait. Liam wiped his hands off and leaned against Theo. “I love you too. This day, just us, was needed.” “You can say that. I hated this void between us. It was killing me.” He loosened his grip and Liam could turn around in the embrace to wrap both arms around his mate’s neck.  “Me too. But we made up and it’s all good now. Soon we can move into our new house, with our own room again. I am excited about that one.”

He kissed Theo, fingers momentarily tightened in his boyfriend’s hair, and Theo pressed closer to him. His lips parted when Theo nibbled on it and he used his hold in Theo’s hair to pull him even closer. His eyes had closed the moment their lips touched first but this was all instinct by now. Liam knew what he liked and what drove Theo wild, which spots o pay close attention to, where to grab or bite. And he trusted Theo so closing his eyes was never a problem, had not been a problem for years. The ex-chimera truly earned Liam’s trust and had never disappointed since he got it. 

Strong hands grabbed him by the thighs and lifted him up to sit him on the counter. Liam immediately wrapped his legs around Theo so his mate didn’t get the crazy idea of pulling away from him. With how easy it was, Theo followed willingly and leaned into the Alpha. His hands dipped under Liam’s shirt and ran over his spine, goosebumps followed in their wake.  Liam’s hands stroked from Theo’s hair to his neck, the other grasped at his shoulder and lower to grab Theo’s arm and pull it up so Theo’s hand rested on the inside of his thigh. His mate gave his leg a soft squeeze while his hand on Liam’s back dipped lower and his fingers played with the seam of Liam’s boxershorts peaking out from his jeans. He pulled from the kiss to give them both time to breathe but then pressed open-mouthed kisses over Liam’s neck. Liam tilted his head to the other side to give Theo more room to explore. 

“Hrm, hrm.” The Alpha Couple stilled. Oh, come on! “You are fucking cockblocks,” Theo complained when he slumped against Liam and hid his face against Liam’s shoulder. The young Alpha didn’t want to open his eyes but he knew he had to sooner or later and opened them. All his Betas stood in the kitchen and gave them amused looks.  “Nice to see you decided to make up and not kill each other,” Mason praised and shot his best friend a toothy grin.  Liam narrowed his eyes. “I agree with Theo, you are cockblocks. We didn’t think you would be home that early.” “Rather you forgot the time with your past time activities.” Maya chortled. “Just to be warned beforehand, did you fuck on the couch?” “We didn’t have sex in this apartment. We actually have regards to how close we all live together, you little shit.” Theo turned around and glared at her with not half the heat his words seemed to hold. She just gave him a thumbs up. Liam chuckled and loosely wrapped both arms around Theo’s shoulders. The way his boyfriend leaned against the counter and therefore against Liam put him in the perfect position to do so.  Nolan watched them and snorted. “Somebody ever told the two of you how picture-perfect you two look together? Theo looks on fleek most of the time anyway and you two together are just one of those perfect aesthetical couples.”  Sadie nodded. “Nolan’s right, you two even have the same color concept. And the worst part is, you don’t even realize it which makes it all even more perfect.” “We have a what now?” Liam never heard of this before. Mason had listened to Nolan and Sadie and now crossed his arms before he raised one hand and tipped against his chin with his index finger. “Yeah, I can see that. Theo’s favorite color is blue and the darker shades of blue on top of that. Liam likes muted colors more. He has bright colored clothes but I personally know he prefers dark red or blue, green. Theo is more daring in colors but he favorites the muted ones as well.” “And since becoming a couple they never wore things which clashed in color,” Sadie added. “Also, their hair colors fit the aesthetic as well. Not too dark but also not too bright. Like Nols said, perfect aesthetical.” The couple stayed silent and let that sink in. Then Theo scoffed. “You three have lost your mind. How do you have time to think about that? You need a hobby!” “Don’t give them ideas, Dore. Although I agree, you three are nuts. We don’t have a color concept as a couple.” Liam shook his head. 

****** “I see your Full House, Mickey, and raise you to my Straight Flush which means I win! Pay up!” Theo threw his cards on the table and raised both hands in victory while he leaned back in his chair.  Mike stared at the cards then he groaned. “You can’t be serious! Is there any game you’re not good at?”  Theo laughed. “Told you I’m good at Poker. Shouldn't have put it to the test.” He reached out and gathered the candy on the table. The pack sat together and took turns in playing Poker. Since nobody wanted to play for real money, Tim had suggested candy as stake. They all participated in playing but it was crystal clear Theo was the best of them all. Probably because he had the best poker face of the group. He even cracked Mike, Maya, and Isaac.  “I’d like to believe you’re cheating but then again, I’m not good at Poker so you probably won fair and square.” Lori had tried her luck and failed miserably in the first round, therefore, decided to be a spectator rather than a player.  “T doesn’t cheat, he is naturally good at those games.” Liam eyed the amount of candy on the table and made a lazy attempt to grab one. Theo gave him a questioning look. “Which one?” “Taffee, please,” Liam ordered and his boyfriend handed him one of the desired candies over.  “If you want a rematch, I’m game,” Theo then offered Mike who grumbled.  “How with Liam eating the pool?” “I just asked for one taffy,” Liam mumbled because his mouth was occupied by the delicious candy.  “What about the licorice?” “Handed it over to Ever and Lori.” Ever raised one piece of licorice to confirm Liam’s statement and then took a bite from it. 

"We should have played Strip Poker, that would have been more interesting,” Mike mumbled quietly. Brett hooted. “That would have been awesome, yeah.” “The night’s still young.” Cade shrugged.  “If you’re so wild on showing off your bodies, why don’t you guys make a sexy calendar for the pack?” Sadie suggested immediately. “Forget sexy firemen, we have our sexy pack mates.”  Mason made a gurgling sound when he sipped his lemonade at the moment of Sadie’s offer and had to slap his hand in front of his mouth to avoid spluttering his drink over the table.  “Mason, you’re okay?” Nolan asked alarmed. The emissary just coughed and wagged his hands around while he nodded.  “He would totally put this calendar on his wall,” Corey translated dryly, “I would too. “Seriously? I would get nightmares,” Maya mocked the male members of the core pack and got very indignantly replies yelled in her face. She laughed. “I mean, I didn’t see all of you without shirts on, the only ones I have seen are Theo and Liam, both even completely naked, but I’d say you others are not really cut out for Mr. September.” “First of all, I may not be a total beefcake but I’m in shape, okay? I would be good as Mr. September,” Cade declared, “Then, when have you seen Theo and Liam totally naked?” He sounded slightly disturbed and not sure if he really wanted to know the answer. Sadie took it upon herself to answer. “Theo when he shifted in the campus parking lot and Liam after he showed us he too could shift into a real wolf.” “Please, explain further I shifted in the parking lot because we were tracking a wendigo! I do not shift randomly to parade around naked!” Theo cried out and they all laughed.  “Liam I also saw naked, Theo happened before I became part of the pack, right?” Ever realized. Upon Caden’s funny look she grinned and put a hand on his leg. “Both could not compare to you. Because, Maya, I have to agree with him, my boyfriend looks amazing.” She kissed him under the wolf whistles of the pack.

Liam sat in his chair and observed his pack. Since he had announced his new fortune, the mood had been better. Yes, they all wanted a new home, but the spirit was higher. It had been the good news they all needed and now they were able to goof around, talk about sexy calendars and stuff. He still hoped the house would be finished soon and he could announce moving day, but for now, this was as good as it could get.  Theo leaned closer to him and kissed his jaw. “In thoughts, baby?” “Just thinking about how happy we are at the moment and how it’s only getting better,” he whispered back and leaned further into his boyfriend. It was natural to search Theo out since they had been at the house together, he didn’t want any separation between them again.  “Hm, can’t wait.” Theo suckled in Liam’s earlobe and tugged on it with his teeth. A shiver ran down Liam’s spine and then a second one when he heard his mate’s low chuckle because of that.  “What do you say about paying a visit to the truck before sleeping?” Theo asked quietly and Liam bit his lower lip. That was soo tempting...

“Liam, Theo, stop whispering cute things into each other’s ears and pay attention to us. We want to play another round!” Ever called. Theo sighed but then straightened his back. “Bold of you to assume those were cute things.” He smirked. Liam laughed. “You walked into that one, Hecate.” She rolled her eyes but smiled in the end. “You really want to play again? We all know I’m going to win anyway but okay, your choice!” Theo shrugged. Liam smiled and put one arm on the backrest of Theo’s chair. When offered cards, he raised his hand and shook it. “I’m fine with watching and being your biggest fan.” “Okay.” Theo smiled at him. “Let’s start playing, I want some more candy.”

****** The days were just passing by without anything important happening. No hyenas back in town or other supernatural baddies lurking around. They all could focus on college and still finding a new place to live. To keep the surprise, Liam didn’t keep his Betas from finding new places and looking into realty but he proceeded to turn everything down. 

And then one day he got the call he had been waiting for. It was a short call but enough to put the biggest smile on Liam’s face. It had happened on his way home and he had taken a detour to gather the sale contract (thank god he had been alone or the surprise would have been ruined). When he finally made it into Isaac’s apartment, he found Theo alone at the living room table and marched over. “You are in a fantastic mood,” Theo realized and pushed his chair away from the table so Liam could sit on his lap.  “Hm.” Liam wrapped one arm around Theo’s shoulder. “Got a call from the agency, the workers are done,” he whispered into his mate’s ear.  A few seconds passed, then Theo beamed at him. “Really? Already? That is awesome!” “Oh yeah, sooner than expected but this is more than just amazing. I cannot stop smiling.” He pecked Theo’s lips. “We have a new home.” “We do.” Theo smiled and leaned his forehead against Liam’s. “I can understand why this makes you so happy. When will you tell the Betas?” “I thought we’ll wait for this Friday. That way we have the whole weekend to settle in the house and buy all the stuff for the bedrooms.” “Yeah, yeah, good idea.” Theo tightened his hold on Liam’s and kissed him. “Fuck, this is the best news!”

“You two lovebirds are always whispering recently. What’s up with that?” Brett had wandered into the kitchen and looked over to them.  “We just decided on a date night tomorrow,” Liam said, “The last one had been way too long ago.”  “Ah, well, in that case, continue with your pink lovely world.” Brett grinned and disappeared into the guest room again.  Theo chuckled. “We have a date night tomorrow?” Liam grinned. “Now we have one.”

****** Next day found Liam dressed in dark blue jeans and a white t-shirt under a black leather jacket leaned against the wall outside of the bathroom. “Theo, seriously, hurry! I’m getting impatient!” He called out for his mate. The older took his time tonight and it made Liam’s skin crawl. He had plans tonight and while they didn’t have to be somewhere at a special time, he still wanted to go.  Mason leaned on the opposite wall and grinned at his best friend. “Your man is a tiny bit vain, isn’t he?” “You take just as long to get ready, Mase!”  “I do not. I just get distracted easily.” “Sure.” Liam shook his head and laughed.

And then the bathroom door opened and Theo finally stepped out of the bathroom. "I am not vain, I just have to keep up with Liam!” The Alpha felt his cheeks burning from the compliment and he just made some uncertain sounds. His boyfriend wore black jeans and a grey shirt underneath a dark blue cardigan and wow, he looked fantastic. Mason shook his head when he saw Liam’s blush. “One would think after living together for years and being mated for over half a year, you have gotten used to this. Now go off and have fun, don’t forget protection, my young ducklings.” “I hate you,” Liam mumbled when his cheeks burned even brighter. Theo just had looked at him and smiled the private smile only reserved for Liam. It made his heart rate accelerate more than naked Theo could do.  “Y...Yeah, let’s go. Bye, Mason.” Liam took Theo’s hand and pulled him out of the apartment. 

“I have a surprise waiting for you outside,” he told Theo in the elevator. Theo looked curious but when he stepped outside and saw the highly polished oldtimer convertible parked in front of the house, he drew in a sharp breath.  “Liam!” “It’s rented.” Liam knew where Theo’s mind had gone. “There is a company where you can rent oldtimers for 24 hours and it’s not that expensive. I thought it would be nice for you to drive around during our date. Even though the other car we saw was black and this one is midnight blue as I was told, I hope you don’t mind.” “I don’t mind, I don’t mind? This car is as beautiful as the other one and I get to drive it! I would drive this car if it was pink! Give me the keys.” Theo had switched into an excited young man and when Liam threw him the keys he all but ran to get into the driver’s seat. That alone was enough for Liam to consider this date one of the best they ever had and it had only just begun. He followed his partner into the car. The fawn leather seats were comfy and he leaned back with a sigh. Theo ran his hand over the steering wheel in wonder and then looked at Liam. “Where to? You said you had plans, right?” “How about a private house tour?” Liam suggested with a soft smile. It only intensified when Theo beamed at him, leaned over the console to kiss Liam, and started the car. “Wow, do you hear that Liam? The engine sounds so smooth!”

Theo continued to praise the car for the whole drive and Liam just leaned back and enjoyed his boyfriend so happy and excited. Theo’s green eyes sparkled and he rarely talked that much about something in one go. He could have spent hours listening to Theo talk. His mom had once said she was falling more and move in love with her husband every day and now Liam discovered the same with his mate. 

He was also curious about what Theo would say to the now finished house. It looked different, Liam knew that, and he really hoped his pack would appreciate the choices he made. When they parked in front of the house, Liam vibrated out of his skin with excitement once again.  He unlocked the door and let Theo step in first.  “Oh my god, Liam.” The wall on the right and leading up the stairs had been decorated with pictures from the pack. Vegas was there, the lake, Christmas, New York, a few from them just hanging out. They were either framed with silver or blue frames yet the wall was still relatively empty.  “Those are just some I had on my phone. We can put the pictures you guys have there as well, it’s just a start.”  Theo stepped closer to two pictures. “Is that...?” “Our graduation,” Liam finished the sentence. It had Mason, Corey, Nolan, Theo, and Liam all in their red robes and smiling brightly in the camera in the first picture, in the second picture they all held out their diplomas and made silly faces. Theo chuckled.  “Memories,” he muttered. 

He then continued walking around and stopped at the reading corner on the left. The shelves were now fully stocked with books, there was a comfy looking wing chair in the corner and next to it a tall lamp. Somewhat further into the middle of the niche, the dark blue low couch Liam had decided on had found its place. Enough place for several people to read and relax. 

The kitchen had not changed that much but Liam knew the closed shelves were stocked with food, cutlery, and dishes, enough for the whole pack. The windows were freshly cleaned as well and let in the evening light perfectly. 

And then Theo saw the room which had been completely empty when he been to the house for the first time, the living room. Paint buckets and ladders had made room for two big couches, one facing the flatscreen above the fireplace directly, the other facing the window front. A smaller couch and several ottomans were places around the room to give enough seats for everyone. Next to the fireplace stood a chess table. The furniture was kept in a very light grey tone, almost white, and had dark blue pillows as an accent. The couch table in the middle was black and a soft blue carpet beneath the couches and the table completed the picture. Theo gaped at the room.  "I picked out the colors and the grey spoke to me, I don’t really know why. It is soft but not cold, you know? Guess that’s why. And the black table was a recommendation from Mrs. Russo. It was great working with her and see my fantasies come to life,” Liam babbled and stopped when he saw Theo looking at him. “You’re looking at me the same way you looked at me at the zoo when I talked about Mykonos.” “Because I am just as impressed as I was back then. You’re good at this whole interior design stuff, you realized that?” Liam blushed again. “I had help.” Theo shook his head. “Don’t be so humble and take the compliment.” He cupped Liam’s face. “You’re definitively in charge of the interior for our coffee shop.” And he kissed Liam to stop further discussions.  Liam pulled him closer and returned the kiss softly. In his head, he was dancing happily that Theo liked what he picked out. 

“Want to go upstairs and see the gallery?” He asked when they stopped kissing. Theo licked his lips and shook his head. “I want to see the pool.”  He let go off Liam and opened the door to step outside. The garden was not finished and probably would not be in the nearest future but Liam considered that a pack project. The only things completely finished were the patio they currently stood on, the pool area, and the whirlpool. 

The patio had beautiful wooden flooring and a big seating area on one side, with a white fireplace right in the middle to huddle around and sit there, even during the winter, and a barbecue. The couches were white with brownish-red wood. On the other side of the patio was a round metallic table and chairs for having breakfast in the summer or playing board games. Liam was sure his friends would find a good use for the table.  Five steps led from the patio to the rectangle-shaped pool, currently covered so the water didn’t get dirty. The pool area was also had wooden flooring but it was slightly brighter than the patio itself. Liam had decided on it because it was advertised as warm wood when the sun shined on it and perfect for pools.  The only thing not covered with wood was the whirlpool area. Large quarry tiles led from the pool to the right down a few more steps and there was the pool, outside covered with grey stones. A stone wall had been built around half of the pool to shield it from the house and give the people in the pool some more privacy. Liam saw the way Theo’s eyes darkened mischievously. It was clear they would use the pool for good at least once.  “Want to take a dip?” He inquired and Theo laughed.  “I am tempted but not tonight. I mean, it is there, we don’t want to waste it.” “No, we don’t want that.” The couple smirked at each other and Liam winked at his mate. 

He took Theo’s hand in his and they left the pool behind them while they wandered into the house and upstairs. The gallery area was kept in the same colors as the living room. Like Liam had said on their first trip here, the shelves were placed along the wall, comfy seats and overstuffed benches were placed in the middle of the gallery, a large desk stood right against the banister to get all the light from the big windows. Modern stereo equipment had been installed between two shelves. Enough to either sit and read comfortably or get some work done or listen to some music. Sleek floor lamps made sure you got enough light even when the sun had disappeared. 

“That’s all furnished right now. The bedrooms are empty and so is the gym, I wanted to decide with all of you what to get. There are other rooms down in the basement currently empty, we have to decide what to do with them. Mrs. Russo suggested a playroom? With a pool table, maybe a little bar, a poker table. But I wasn’t sure and didn’t think it was important right now.” “We have all the time in the world to figure that out, you said it yourself. You managed to create a home where we all can live and have everything we need to live a happy life. And you wonderfully implemented the more luxurious aspects like the pools into this home. Do we need a whirlpool? No. Will we have sex in this pool? Bet on it. Is this the greatest thing ever? It sure is.” He had to laugh at Theo’s excitement. “The pool really settles it for you, huh?” “I like the pool. Especially for us wolves, it is nice to have quick cool down on a hot day and the core pack is quite large, we don’t have to worry about disturbing anybody now. And the whirlpool, well, it gives me ideas.” “I bet I know your ideas.” Liam snickered. He knew Theo after all. “Is sex in a whirlpool on your bucket list or something?” Theo’s smile turned a bit more lewdly. “Since we got together my bucket list grew. There are things I’m planning on doing with you, sweetheart,” he declared huskily and it went straight to Liam’s core. Hot lust mixed with incredible fondness and love for the older man stirred up inside him and his eyes flashed. Theo’s eyes flashed in return and he smirked, exposed the hint of sharp teeth.

The mated couple stared at each other for a while until Liam cleared his throat. If they kept this up they would land in the pool or against a flat surface sooner than later and he had other plans for now. “I, uhm, I brought some picnic. Just some snacks.” He pointed at the picnic basket he had placed on the table earlier when he went to fetch the oldtimer. 

“Well, in that case, let’s sit and eat, shall we?” Theo smiled at him, grabbed the basket, and settled on one of the couches with Liam. It was not much Liam had packed, just some cucumber slices, tomatoes, little meatballs. And: “I thought we should toast to our new home but didn’t think we would like wine so I brought beer.” He pulled the two bottles out. “Want some music?” He stood up and walked to the stereo to turn it on a random channel. Soft instrumental music started to play and for background noise, this was good enough. 

When he walked back to Theo, his boyfriend had taken the black document folder out of the basket and turned it in his hands. “Liam, what is this?” “It’s the sales contract for the house. I bought this house but I said it when I talked about the money being ours. I bought it with our money so I want your signature on the contract as well. I want the house to belong to both of us.” Theo stared at him thunderstruck. “Liam, I can’t do that.” He grimaced.  “Why not?” Liam asked softly. “You agreed when I said the money is our money. We are mates, the house should belong to us both. The Alpha Couple giving their Betas a new home. I don’t see any reason why you can’t sign the contract.” Theo worried his lip with his teeth and flicked the folder open. Liam reached into the basket and pulled out the elegant ballpen he had borrowed from Isaac. He held it out for Theo but said nothing to not pressure his partner. If Theo really declined, he would accept it, no matter how differently he thought about it. 

Theo stared at the contract Then he took the pen in his hand. “You are too good for this world but I am too selfish to say no,” he declared and put his name next to Liam’s on the small line. Liam smiled warmly.  “You are not selfish, it is okay to want this. I offered it to you, you didn’t force me.” He kissed Theo’s cheek and then stored the contract back in the basket. When he turned his attention back to Theo, his boyfriend had a  weak smile on his face.  “Hey, you okay?” Liam put his arm around Theo’s waist. Theo huffed out a soft laugh. “I went from being homeless to a house owner. It’s a big step and a lot to wrap my head around.” He turned his head and looked at Liam. “But I am really, really happy.” He kissed Liam softly. Both men closed their eyes and enjoyed the soft display of love and affection. This was really one of the best, they both knew this. Tonight life was pretty much perfect and they were in their own romantic little bubble. After all those weeks, the pain and the fear, the reality of being homeless, they finally had a new place to live and start a new chapter in their lives.

Liam gasped in surprise when Theo suddenly took his hands and pulled him to his feet. He opened his eyes. “What are we doing?” “It’s a special occasion and we should do something we never did before. I can’t remember that we have ever slow-danced,” Theo explained his actions while he led Liam in front of the stereo. Liam laughed. “Oh my god, Theo.” “No complaints, puppy.” Theo pulled him closer and who was Liam kidding? Of course, wrapped his arms around Theo’s neck and pressed close to Theo. They began swaying and he leaned his head against his mate's shoulder.  “I love you so much,” Theo mumbled. “Thank you.”

****** Liam woke up and heard his cellphone ringing. He groaned and rubbed his eyes while he located his jacket on the floor and reached for it. Mason’s caller id flashed on the screen when he finally fumbled the phone out of his pocket and Theo behind him groaned. “Hello?” “Thank god, we thought you were kidnapped or something, Is Theo okay?” Mason didn’t even bother with a greeting.  “Yeah, he is.” Liam sat up and looked around. Theo had spooned him from behind, one arm over Liam’s hips after they had fallen asleep on the couch at on the gallery. The music was still playing in the background or had played before but Theo had now gotten up and turned it off. “We fell asleep.” “Did you sleep in the car? We were worried cause you didn’t come home after your date and we all agreed you would not take a hotel for the night.” “No, no hotel.” Liam yawned. “We will be home in a bit. Bye.” He hung up and ran a hand through his short hair.  Theo stretched. “Guess our pack missed us. Good to know we can’t stay away for one night. A nice feeling to know people notice your absence." “Yeah.” Liam yawned again. “I need coffee.” His shirt was rumpled from sleeping in it and Theo didn’t look much better. Well, as bad as Theo could look. Even in rumpled clothes, he looked like a supermodel.  "I didn’t expect our first night at the new house to take place on a couch yet again but okay.” Liam shrugged and Theo laughed.  “It’s a different couch than Isaac's and I slept well. That’s the important part, right?” “Right.” He checked his watch. “Fuck, we have to go and get change before classes start!”

****** Friday finally came and their classes dragged on and on. Liam waited eagerly for the college day to finally end so he could meet with his pack in the parking lot and then finally show them the house.  When it was finally time, he bounced on his feet and could not stand still while he waited. Brett who had been ordered to also meet them after his shift grinned. And he had brought Isaac with him who Liam also had kindly invited to tag along. “An excited Alpha puppy, would you look at that.” “I’m just in a good mood.” “You are in a good mood for several days now. Share your secret.” “Well, for once, a large part....” Liam gestured to Theo who leaned against his truck. “I have that one as my mate.” Theo smirked but any further praise of him was cut off by the rest of the pack arriving. 

“Okay, Lee, we are all here and you made it clear we should not have any other plans this weekend. What’s this about? We are too curious, we need to know,” Corey said. Liam grinned. “Just get into the cars and follow Theo’s truck. You will see soon enough.” “We’re going on a trip? But we didn’t pack,” Sadie mused. “Relax, Sadie, you won’t need fresh clothes for that one,” Theo promised. He tossed Liam the keys. “Here, do the honors. Drive.” “Oh, oh, it’s special when Theo lets Liam drive his baby,” Lori was stunned. But then she quickly climbed into the truck, just like everybody else. They all wanted to know what the big surprise was. 

On their way, they all tried to guess what it could be but funny enough none of them guessed the right thing. Either his pack didn’t even try to hope or the Alpha Couple became insanely good at covering things up. 

Then the house came into view and they all fell silent. Uncertain what to say. “Are we visiting someone?” Maya inquired. Theo and Liam shared a look and then parked in front of the large garage, capable of holding two cars inside next to each other. They all got out and the Betas still looked unsure what to make out of this.  Liam and Theo stepped on the front porch. “To answer the question, we are not visiting somebody.”  “But there was a sign regarding private property when we passed the gate,” Nolan chimed in. “Are we trespassing?”  “Guys, come on, you are not dumb. What do you think this is?” Cade shrugged. “A house to visit that could become the new pack house?” Maya shook her head and glanced up the house. Her eyes were a little bit glassy. “No, not a house that could be the new pack house.” She glanced at the other born werewolves in the pack and they all seemed to understand what the rest was missing. Lori finally clarified: “Guys, listen to your wolves. This is the new pack house. And it’s theirs.” She looked at the two Alphas and smiled shyly.  Liam raised his shoulders casually. “I hope you forgive me for sending you on a hunt to find new places only to turn them down but I had to stall in order to keep up the surprise. Yes, this is the house Theo and I bought. Took a while to get finished but now it’s almost done. Only the bedrooms are missing cause the plan was for each one of you to choose a room and then we go to IKEA and buy the furniture every single one of you wants,” he explained.  The pack stayed silent. Theo pointed at them. “That is the moment you should rejoice,” he prompted. 

Silence. 

And then...

Loud screaming and suddenly Alpha and Second Alpha found themselves in an ambush of happy Betas all yelling above each other, asking millions of questions, praising Liam and Theo, and just shouting their thoughts. This was probably the most uncoordinated pack hug they ever had and normal persons would probably stay back with broken ribs but Liam laughed freely and enjoyed the chaos. 

Theo unlocked the front door and then jumped aside last minute before he got run over by the pack. He almost landed in the bushes planted next to the front porch and only Liam’s grip on his arm kept him from it. The Alpha smirked at his mate and Theo flicked his nose in retaliation. And then they also stepped inside their new house.  They made their way to the kitchen and waited for them to calm down. It almost happened once but then Tim spotted the pool and a new wave of euphoria swept over the Betas.  “None of them is younger than twenty and they act like little kids. It will be fun to see Landon’s and Zack’s reaction,” Liam said thoughtfully.  Theo laughed. “They will be just as excited.” 

Excitement, the whole house burst with it. It was palpable and exactly what Liam had hoped for. The surprise was completely successful and it had been good he had waited until everything was finished. They could move in and finally be out of Isaac’s hair.  Only slowly the pack calmed down enough to gather everyone in the living room and have a conversation about the rooms. Liam started it. “To begin, we already chose a room for ourselves.” “Can I guess? The room up the second pair of stairs?” Mason said out loud.  Liam nodded. Maya awed. “The first time you didn’t want to take the biggest room and now you already decided on one. I am proud of you.” “What happened the first time?” Caden wanted to know.  “Mike and Sadie fought about the biggest room until Theo stated the biggest room was for the Alpha. Liam was very hesitant to accept it, only did in case he would find a mate and then could use the private bathroom. Which worked perfectly,” Ever explained and pointed at Theo.  “Good times,” Sadie said and smiled.  “A lot of good things happened in the first pack house. But now we have this house and we will make just as many good memories here if not more.” Liam was sure of that.  “Now, who gets which room?” Theo asked and started a loud argument over who and what and when and where and why. 

Tim was the only one who didn’t participate and just listened. Until he suddenly whistled. “Guys, can I say something? I get it, you all want your room to be the best but let’s face it, all rooms are amazing. However, there are two rooms on each side who share a bathroom each. Does it not make more sense when one of the couples takes two of these rooms? Just asking.” Ever and Caden shared a look. “We would take one set of these rooms, the ones on the left if that’s okay,” they finally decided.  “I’d like the room close to Liam’s and Theo’s staircase. What do you say, Mason?” Corey asked his husband. Mason nodded. The room had a little balcony and would be perfect for the two of them to sit outside and enjoy nature. 

“If you two take that room, I’d like the first room in the basement. The one with the niche. I always wanted a hammock in my room and it would fit perfectly in there,” Mike claimed.  “You want to live downstairs?” Nolan could not believe it.  "You look at me as if I moved in the cardboard under the stairs. The house is built on a hill, you know, therefore it’s not really a basement since the rooms there also have windows and a lot of light.” “I wasn’t downstairs in the basement.” Nolan shrugged.  “Also, I can blast my music and disturb nobody with it,” Mike found yet another reason why he liked the room so much.  “If you want that room, I’d like the room next to yours,” Tim pleaded. “It reminds me how the common room from Hufflepuff is described in the books. I would live in my own Hufflepuff common room, that is awesome!” “Oh my, Timmy, you’re too precious for this world.” Mike smiled and the two best friends fist-bumped. 

After that, the others fell in line. Lori took a great liking to one of the two rooms you came across when you walked upstairs, Nolan and Brett settled next to Corey and Mason on one side and had Sadie on the other. Maya took the first room on the left side of the hallway.  When everyone was settled, Liam looked at Isaac. “What about you?” “What about me?” He looked puzzled.  “You said your apartment gets lonely. You are welcome to drop by anytime if you want. You can choose a room as well. It’s yours then.” “That...Oh wow, I don’t know what to say.” “Hey, you hosted us and gave us a roof over our heads. It’s the least we can do for you.” Theo smiled at his friend and Isaac returned the smile.  Isaac contemplated it. “I take the room next to Lori then. Thank you, guys.”

“Perfect.” Liam clasped his hands together. “Now this is settled, I think we should pay a visit to IKEA:” 

_____________________________________________________________

We deserved happy Liam and happy Theo, don't you think? And they deserved to be happy. I ship them with happiness and I am absolutely in love with the two of them being all cuddly and soft with each other. They can barely take their hands off each other and I'm living for it. The pack finally has a new home and can turn a new page in their books. I am sure it will be an awesome time. Let me know what you think.

Have a great week ♥

[briefbouquetcreatorlove-blog]

Can my husband remove me from our car insurance policy?

"Can my husband remove me from our car insurance policy?

Hello, My husband left 2 months ago. We have a car insurance policy together with all 3 vechiles on it. He called me yesterday to inform me that he is removing me from our policy. Can he take me off the car insurance policy as we are still married and the policy is in both our names? I am calling the insurance company Monday morning but I would just like to know for sure as everyone that I have spoken with said he can not do this. Thanks!

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""Car insurance rates are through the roof and I don't know why, help!?""

I need help with car insurance, I'm having some problems. Okay, I'm a 21 year old single, never married, male and I got my driver's license when I was 18 in March 2008. Now, I know my car insurance rates are high because I'm young and a guy, but here's the problem. I see people who are about my same age who have been driving for the same amount of time as and have no accidents, violations, or tickets like me. My car insurance rates are ridiculously high, I mean insanely high, even compared to others my age. My younger brother even, he's had his license for a year, he's 19, and had 3 speeding tickets and still pays less than me. On average for my car insurance rates, getting quotes online range from about $1500 all the way up to $2500 for 6 months! I used old vehicles, new vehicles, safe vehicles, unsafe vehicles, every kind of car/truck you could imagine and my projected rates are still through the roof. For example, for full coverage with the minimum amounts and highest deductibles, my insurance on a 2010 Mazda 3 would be about $1800-$2300 for 6 months. However, I also got a quote for a 1997 Ford Escort and the same exact coverage is still $1200-$1300. I don't get why my rates are so much higher. A coworker of mine is 21 years old, not married, no tickets, and has had his license since 18 like me, and he has a 2007 Mazda 6 and he only pays about $170 a month, which translates to about ~$1050 for 6 months. I put in my information including SSN on the same company's web site that he uses (Geico) and my insurance rates are about $1700 for 6 months. So my question is why are my insurance rates so high? I have no tickets, no moving violations, no accidents, nothing, and yet insurance rates are so high. I figure SOMETHING has to be on my driving record, but I can't imagine what. How can get a copy of or look at my driving record? I just want to know why my rates are so much higher than other people, male or female, who are about my age and have been driving for about the same amount of time and yet I still pay 2x or 3x as much as me. Please help me out! =)""

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how can i convince a company to avail a group health insurance? some people in the company that has a position don't believe in such thing. how can i get their thumbs up? specific reasons please... thanks!

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https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/insurance-range-rover-cleofa-escobedo"

[unpopcorned]

.

.

“Veronicaaaaa! Are you here?”

Veronica lifts her head, closes the closet door behind her. In the walkway, there’s Casey - who had somehow gotten in. Veronica makes a face, stops in front of her, “What’re you doin’–”

“What’s up with the mess?” Casey is point blank with her questions, blinking big brown eyes at Veronica, “Are you busy?” Veronica’s eyebrows furrow, she takes a moment to look around, eyes darting the expanse of the apartment. She supposes it does look a little - messy. Couch turned inside out, clothes littering the floor. The only thing remotely neat were the pile of shoes in the living room, which she had took her time putting in a straight line.

Jacob has been gone for the last few hours, he’d left earlier than Veronica had anticipated, she’d still been asleep. She feels sweaty, rubs at the back of her neck, “No, I’m not busy. Just lookin’ for something–”

“Are you finished–” Dawson stands in the doorway, trails off when he notices the two of them, “Oh. Did I interrupt?”

“Fuck’re you doin’ here?” It’s pretty rare to see him in the city, especially around this time. Crossing her arms over her chest, she grimaces, “Business?”

Dawson shakes his head, nonplussed, “Lookin’ for someone.”

“With Casey?”

“She’s the only one who knows where she is.”

Veronica’s eyebrows go up, “She?”

“Are you crazy now?” Casey suddenly asks, twirling a piece of hair around her finger. She’s staring at Veronica curiously, “Like Jax said.”

Veronica looks back over at her, eyebrows creasing. She doesn’t like the look she’s giving her, feels itchy because of it, “What did you just say?”

“Jax. He said you were crazy now. Well–” Casey licks her lips, seems to think on it, “Only for a little while, I think. Jacob told him.”

“Jacob told him what?”

“That you were crazy right now. That’s why it looks like this here, right?” She beams a smile at Veronica, like calling her crazy isn’t that big of a deal. She feels a thousand times more itchy now, flickers her eyes away so she’s not looking at either of them, “I don’t care if you are–”

“Stop talking,” Dawson says quietly to Casey, he’s also looking around the expanse of the apartment. But doesn’t comment on it, “What’re you looking for?” Veronica avoids the look he’s giving her, that knowing look.

She’s still on the crazy thing, wouldn’t be the first time she was called that, won’t be the last. But it doesn’t matter - no matter how itchy and anxious it makes her feel to know Jacob thought of her that way, there’s more pressing things at hand. Finding the gun, first of all - she doesn’t know where Jacob had put it when she’d given it to him. She’s looked everywhere, maybe he had ended up taking it with him.

Things are still a bit strange. At first, she thought it was just her paranoia, that she was thinking a bit too hard about it. But Jacob has been a bit more careful around her for a last few days, ever since she drew that gun on Devin. As if he might say something wrong about it, he’s pointedly strayed from the topic. And if Veronica didn’t know him so well by now, she might not have even noticed.

“…nothing,” she mutters finally, “It’s nothin’.”

Dawson doesn’t look as if he believes her. Not that he has the time to say anything, her phone is ringing the next second, and she jumps a bit at the sound, cursing under her breath next. Once she pulls it from the receiver, she says, “What.”

“Meet me down by Yolanda’s place.”

Veronica’s forehead wrinkles, she holds the phone closer, “Rick?”

“Meet me there. An hour.”

“What did you do–”

And then he hangs up, Veronica frowns at the sound of the dial tone. Finally, she puts the phone back, returning her attention to Dawson and Casey - Dawson looks at her again when she picks up her shoes from the floor, “Something wrong?”

“No–” Veronica shakes her head, avoids his eyes - he’s way too good at reading her, a lot like Rob, “I gotta go,” She glances at Casey once, slipping on her jacket, “What did you want?”

“I was gonna ask if you’ve seen Ryan,” Casey tells her, brown eyes wide and curious, “I haven’t seen her since yesterday.” Dawson scoffs lightly from behind Casey, but says nothing.

Veronica thinks on it - Ryan isn’t anyone particularly special, it takes Veronica a few seconds to even remember her face, “Alex might know. Try him, okay?” Casey nods a bit too exuberantly, Dawson doesn’t look happy at all.

Instead of heading downtown like she’d been instructed, she goes the opposite way, across town - has to take a ten minute train to get there. Three knocks to the door, and then a fourth louder one when there’s no answer. Jonah opens it, as he usually does, all warm smiles and easygoing attitude.

“Hey, Veronica,” he looks at her, “It’s late, what’s–”

“Vito here?”

As soon as she says his name, a sleepy and shirtless Vito makes his way to the door, instinctively trailing after Jonah. Veronica shoves her hands into her pockets - she couldn’t go to Jacob, he didn’t know that she was even speaking to Patrick. She couldn’t go to Rudy, he was too close to Jacob. Tony was out of the question, didn’t want Viola to be mad. And Manuel talked too much. Out of all of the cousins, Vito is pretty much the only one she can find herself leaning on, if just for this once.

“Put a shirt on. Need you for somethin’.”

Vito makes a face, breaks out a ridiculously huge yawn, “Y’serious?” When he spots the look on her face, he inhales and exhales deeply, “Gimme a minute.” The door closes, reopens only a few minutes later, Vito dressed now and lighting a cigarette once he’s in the hall, “I was sleepin’.”

“Sorry to interrupt your cuddlin’,” Veronica mutters, and even with him so grouchy, he holds open the front door for her, giving a quick glance towards the old man behind the desk, “What’s up with you and the old guy?”

“Nothin’,” Vito says, blowing smoke from the side of his mouth, “Gonna tell me what this is about?”

“Patrick.”

Vito’s eyebrow raises, “Crazy guy Rudy was talkin’ about few weeks back?”

“I…I’m movin’ some shit around with him,” Vito’s eyebrow climbs even higher, “Couple days ago, I sent him on this really easy drive uptown to drop off somethin’ for me. Never got a call back from Hector. Rick calls me today to come and meet with him.”

“And you don’t trust him.”

“Trust and Rick don’t really go in the same sentence.”

“Yeah, no shit.”

“Need you to gimme a ride.”

Vito doesn’t need anymore than that, he only takes out his keys with a sigh, and she falls into step next to him, “Just to let’cha know, he tries anything, I’m blowin’ his brains out.”

“Wouldn’t blame ya’.”

.

.

“What the fuck are you doing here?”

Felix only gives a shrug once he’s out of the car. He’s taller than the last time Veronica saw him, or maybe Veronica was just used to seeing him sitting down. He always was when he was speaking with West. Two years hasn’t really changed him, but she definitely hasn’t forgotten what the fuck he can do and how easily he does it. Didn’t trust him as far as she could throw him, and that still stands, even now.

Patrick is out of the car next, whistles lowly when he closes the door and spots Veronica, “Hey, V. Lovin’ the shorts,” She offers no words, only flips him off silently. His attention goes to Vito, his eyes practically light up, “Who’s your friend?”

“None of your business,” Veronica grounds out, “Cut the shit. What’s goin’ on?” Felix and Patrick exchange a look, appear more amused than anything. Veronica locks her jaw, “Rick–” Without warning, Felix tosses a duffel bag in their direction - Vito manages to catch it and look inside. It’s startlingly familiar and filled with cash, takes Veronica a second to realize it’s what she’d given him earlier in the week.

“Hector didn’t want it,” Patrick says when she looks at him, “He’s already pushin’ shit for someone else.”

“Who?”

Patrick shrugs, “One of your friends.”

“I don’t have friends.”

“Whatever the fuck you wanna call ‘im. The prick, the stuck-up one–”

“Vince?”

Patrick makes an annoyed rolling gesture with his hand, like he wants to hurry up and get the conversation over with, “See - pay attention. Hector’s workin’ with Vince, Vince heard I was doin’ business with you–”

“Heard?”

“Y’know what I mean, V.”

“No, I don’t know what you mean. You tryin’ to fuck me over?”

“Point is, me and little Vince got in a small disagreement, wasn’t pretty–”

“What did you do? Patrick, what the fuck did you do?” Patrick is still staring at her, then looks away - pops the trunk, and out he pulls someone. It’s a girl with long blonde hair, wiggling around and making small muffled noises from behind the tape on her mouth. Veronica stares, wide-eyed and furious, “You–”

Patrick lifts the girl from the truck, no problem at all. She’s squirming in his grip, kicking as well - even with her wrists bound and her mouth taped, she’s still loud and overwhelming. Vito is silent from beside Veronica, “Say hello to V, Nat!” Patrick introduces her like she’s the star of the show, and to him, she probably is.

When Natalie catches sight of Veronica, her eyes grow big and watery, almost bugging out of her head - face red, she begins fighting harder in Patrick’s grip, which he only laughs at and catches her around the waist before she can fall over. She’s shouting, and Veronica doesn’t know what she’s saying, but it can’t be good. Fortunately, no one’s around this late.

“What the fuck is the matter with you?” Veronica hisses, shoving hard at his shoulder - it’s a little funny to see, high and mighty Natalie - bagged and gagged like this. Veronica shakes her head.

Vito isn’t amused, “Are you fucked in the head?”

“Do you know what Vince will do if he finds out–”

“He already knows,” Felix speaks up for the first time, he’s smoking leisurely at a cigarette, “Have to and meet with him.”

“He wants you there,” Patrick tells her, flashing his teeth when Veronica fixes him with a look, “Oh, c’mon, baby. Don’t look at me like that. I’m helping.”

“You’re a fucking moron.”

He only laughs, right into her face, “I’m gonna open your eyes, sweetheart.”

Natalie is still kicking and screaming when Felix and Patrick put her back into the trunk. He closes it, rounds back to the driver side of his car, nudges his head once at Felix - which he listens to and gets into the car, “You a good driver, right?” He’s looking directly at Vito, who’s kept quiet most of the exchange, “Keep up.”

Vito pointedly ignores the wink Patrick throws in his direction, looks at Veronica, “Let’s go.” When they are in the car, Vito is already pulling his gun from the waist of his pants, “That guy is fuckin’ off the rails.”

“Yeah,” Veronica laughs under her breath, as if she can’t believe it, “He’s goin’ to get me killed.”

Vito seems a little surprised with her reaction, “I’m guessin’ you ain’t told Jacob.”

“Jacob would make it complicated, Rick doesn’t like him. Vice versa.”

“He could un-complicate it, Veronica.”

“You mean by gettin’ rid of him? That’s the least of my worries.”

“Who’s the guy anyway?”

“Felix? Don’t talk to him, he’s fuckin’ crazy too.”

Vito is frowning, seems to be thinking. And then he reaches over into the glove department, the surprise is that he actually carries another gun inside, he checks to make sure bullets are inside and then hands it over to her, “You know how t’ use one of these, right?”

The weight is familiar and heavy in her hand, makes her feel a little better with the situation, “Eat me.”

They tail after Patrick - he drives fast, merges into lanes whenever he pleases, horns blare after him and Veronica can imagine him doing that crazed laugh inside of his car. Vito is even muttering under his breath, Patrick isn’t really hard to dislike. By the time they make it to the warehouse, she can tell her companion’s patience is wearing thin.

“Should be walkin’ around with a warnin’ sign or somethin’…fuckin’ dumbass,” Vito gets out of the car first, rounds it to help Veronica out next even though she doesn’t need it. It reminds her of Jacob, all of his cousins have this weird quirk where even if they’re rude and smartasses, they still have a basic set of manners, “Did I drive too fast?”

She shakes her head. Tucking her gun in the back of her jean shorts, she turns to face Vito, “I need you to do me a favor. Don’t be stupid, don’t draw attention to yourself, don’t reach for nothin’ or touch your pockets, okay?” If anything happens to Vito, she doesn’t know what the fuck she’d do. Vito, seeming to notice how serious he is, nods.

“It’s fine, Veronica. Ain’t like I’m new to nothin’.”

“Hey!” Patrick is yelling, grinning wide when they look over at him. He drums the top of his hands on the trunk, there’s movement from inside, “Fuckin’ fun, right?! Live a little!”

“He high or somethin’?” Vito mutters to her.

“No, he’s just like that.”

She still can’t pinpoint why Felix is sticking around him, but then again - Felix wasn’t any better in the mental department from what she could tell. It makes her curious, almost want to ask him where his help went, Danilo. Can’t help but wonder if they work together still. The warehouse is dimly lit inside, and at first, she thinks it’s empty. But it’s not, a few guys are lounging on this old couch in the center of it, talking among themselves. Maybe seven or eight of them. They all look up when they hear footsteps, don’t bother to greet them.

“Hey,” Patrick snaps his fingers at one, “Tell your boss we’re here,” None of them move, “Up, up! Dumbasses - ain’t nobody got all day.” One finally listens to him, gets up to go into the other room. Patrick grumbles, “Where the fuck did he get these guys, amiright?” Veronica wishes he would shut the fuck up.

But Vince comes out, three large men trailing behind him. Vince looks even smaller than he usually does compared to them, protected and in charge, a lot like his father. He doesn’t bother greeting Patrick, his eyes fall onto Veronica, “Veronica, you made it.”

“Wouldn’t miss it,” she murmurs, crosses her arms over her chest tight, “…everything good?”

“Unfortunately, no,” Vince finally looks away from her, darts his eyes over to Patrick and Felix, points to Felix in particular, “You were on the cameras, in my home. When you abducted my twin sister from her room,” His tone is pleasant on the surface, even with his choice of words, “Care to explain? Have we met before?”

“Oh!” Patrick suddenly speaks up, “Sorry, Vince. My fuckin’ bad - this is Felix, Felix this is Vince.”

“You should up your security,” Felix tells him offhandedly, a little too casual for the situation, “Easy to get in.”

“Yeah,” Patrick obviously agrees with him, “And your sister’s a real cunt.”

Felix isn’t done either, “Probably gets it from her mother.”

Vince smiles, he doesn’t look happy though. Veronica is shifting anxiously from beside Vito, who’s staring at the both of them with a furrow in his brow. Exchanging a look with Veronica, but he says nothing.

“Where is Natalie?”

“Don’t worry, she’s comfortable,” Patrick nudges his head at the door, “She’s outside.”

“Alive?”

“Of course, Vince. C’mon, y’know me. I would never–”

“Shut–!!” Vince’s patience is a pretty impressive thing, Veronica’s a little surprised when he snaps and then tries his best to suppress it. Face slightly pink, he lifts his chin and looks at Patrick dead on, eyes dark, and then he’s looking at Veronica, “I’m going to give you a chance here, Veronica.”

She meets his eyes, “Yeah?”

He keeps going, “I don’t want to be enemies–”

“For us to be enemies, I’d have to consider you a threat–” Veronica nudges Patrick hard in the ribs, it makes him laugh under his breath, “Right.”

Vince ignores that, “I’m sure Veronica doesn’t want to lose me as someone who endorses over half of her product. If you return Natalie, the money that you now owe Hector for damages, and apologize for earlier, we can definitely sweep everything under the rug.”

Veronica blinks, “You’re fuckin’ with me?”

“Of course not,” Vince looks at her, “I’m not my father. I’m not going to hold a grudge,” And then his attention is back on Patrick, “Patrick? I’m waiting.”

Veronica stares at Patrick, Vito even stares at Patrick, the guards do as well. He looks like he’s considering, licks across his bottom lip with a smile. He glances at Veronica, give her a very deliberate wink before hefting the duffel bag he’d brought inside up, crossing the several feet to get to Vince. Vince is waiting, he reaches out a hand to take it.

And it should’ve went okay. It should’ve been perfect. And it would have been - if Patrick hadn’t pulled his gun from the back of his jeans and fired.

Veronica almost jumps at the noise - one - three - five shots, right in the chest. No one has any time to react, the quickest one is probably Felix, who somehow has his own weapon and he manages to take out the guard to Patrick’s left, who would’ve blown off his head if Felix wasn’t fast enough.

And then it gets bad. Gunfire from both sides, Vito throws an arm over Veronica’s shoulders, and yanks her towards him, makes them duck behind one of the pillars in the room. Vito is a sharp shot, one guard is coming to their right and Vito spots him - one bullet to the left leg and another to his shoulder to take him down.

It’s one of the last guys that take them by surprise, he sneaks up behind them both, and by time Vito notices him, he’s already cocking his gun back. He doesn’t get the chance to fire, Veronica does it before him, grazes him just barely and the guy uses his momentum to force the butt of his shotgun into Vito’s stomach - hard.

And he would’ve hit Vito in the nose next, he ducks under the swing, and the guy goes for Veronica next - barely gets a hit in before Veronica shoots again, gets him directly in the chest this time, enough force to send him on his back. For good measure ( and probably because he’s pissed ), Vito fires off another bullet, directly in the guy’s head.

Really, after that, it’s over before it even really starts. Once the shooting has died down, she’s up, Vito is wiping sweat from his brow, mumbling in Italian underneath his breath from beside her. And in the middle of all the bodies is Patrick.

Patrick looks too excited and adrenaline-fueled to be talked down, coated in a light sheen of sweat from the heat and intensity in the room, “Did you see that, V?!”

“What the fuck is the matter with you?” Veronica shouts when she gets closer to him, her voice is loud in the now quiet room, “What the fuck, Patrick?” Except, Patrick isn’t looking at her, he’s looking over her shoulder, in Vito and Felix’s direction. He’s got this weird, electrified way in his eyes - she’s only seen it a few times, when he races or when a deal goes good, “Patrick–”

And then he’s walking past Veronica, Felix nudges Vito out of the way - last thing either of them expect is for them to lock lips. Veronica makes a face, Vito looks exasperated. And it’s the kind of kisses with wet noises and both grappling at each other a little too roughly, looks like one of them is trying to get the upper hand over the other. She can’t tell if they want to throw fists or fuck.

Vito is scoffing. And Veronica’s too high-strung to sit still. She doesn’t bother breaking in between them, it wouldn’t be worth it.

“I’m leavin’,” she says, kicking at a limp corpse by her foot, “Fuckin’ rot, both of you.”

Patrick leans around Felix, flashing his teeth in a grin, “C’mon, V. It’s gonna work out–”

She doesn’t wait for him to finish, she grabs Vito’s sleeve and pulls him from the room. When they are outside, it’s easier to breathe, Vito glances backwards, “What about–”

“It’s Felix and Patrick - trust me, they’ll take care of it,” Slightly breathless, she turns to face him fully. She’s wired, maybe has a bit too much adrenaline as well, “You okay?”

“’M fine,” Vito grumbles, rubs at his left side a bit - right where the guy had hit him, “What ‘bout you?”

“I’m…” Veronica swallows, pushes hair from her face, “I’m good.” This is one of those moments where she kind of thinks she might need Jacob - her heart is going really fast, stomach twisting into knots. But she doesn’t let it show, just keeps a steady look on Vito, “I think–”

“You’re bleedin’.”

“Huh?”

“Your mouth.”

Oh. She licks at her lips, can tastes it. She didn’t realize the guy had hit her that hard, probably cut the inside of her mouth or something. Up and down, she shrugs her shoulders, “Didn’t notice.”

Vito is eyeing her now, drops his hand, “Listen–”

“Sorry. I didn’t think he would–”

“You need’a tell Emiliano.”

“…I will. Later.”

“Veronica–”

“I’m not worried about Jacob right now, okay?” Her voice sounds frustrated, it feels strange coming out of her mouth, especially towards Vito. She stops immediately, tries to take in a calming breath, “I’ll tell him. Just not right now.”

Vito stares at her for a long time, she’s glad he doesn’t comment on how fast she’s talking, “Fine. Just - I’ll drive you home.” He tucks away his gun, taking the one he’d given her as well.

“I gotta call some people,” Veronica says, shoulders raised slightly higher than normal, “it’s fine.”

“But–”

“Go home ‘fore your boyfriend chews me out.”

It takes longer than she’d prefer to get Vito to leave, he’s definitely reluctant and she can understand why.

.

.

After a few phone calls on both her and Felix’s parts, things are cleaned up and erased, and she manages to talk Patrick down enough to have an actual conversation with him. When she gets home, she’s surprised she’s not tired - can’t really remember when she’d gotten in bed and actually slept.

On the table, there’s takeout boxes, probably Jacob’s. Speaking of him, once she is out of her jacket and shoes, she goes looking for him, finds him in the bedroom. Already dressed in more comfortable clothes, maybe he’s been home for awhile. Veronica is in the bed before she knows it, crawling up to settle in between his legs.

He looks at her, “Hey.”

“Did you talk to Mason today? I’ve been thinkin’, I ain’t seen ‘im lately, and he might be busy with–”

“Ronnie.”

It takes a moment to get her attention, she’s distracted by the sirens going back their apartment outside, “Yeah?”

He doesn’t say anything for a long time, just stares at her, “You okay?” She doesn’t say anything to that, so he takes that as room to continue. He reaches up and slides his hand around the nape of her neck, under her hair. And she wishes he didn’t because it always makes her feel strange, like his touch alone is enough to calm her, “You ain’t been sleepin’.”

“I have–”

“Three hours ain’t sleep, Ron.”

“I feel fine.”

“Yeah, I know,” he doesn’t stop touching her though, “I brought back some of your favorite - you gotta eat–”

“Did you…” She stops for a second, he’s staring at her, “Did you say somethin’ to Jax? ‘Bout me?”

Jacob’s expression changes, only for a moment though. A light frown touches his face, he shifts closer, “Did he say that?”

“No,” she watches him carefully, he definitely said something to him - that’s easy to read, “No, he didn’t say anythin’. I just–” Her voice has dropped quieter, “I don’t want you to think shit like that.”

“Like what?”

It’s barely a whisper now, “…that I’m crazy.”

“Hey,” this time, he takes her face in his hands, forces her to look at him. His eyes are more intense now, it’s hard to look away, “I don’t think anythin’ like that. You’re smart, you’re loyal to everybody around you, you’re–” He stops there, but only for a moment, “You’re–”

He looks like he wants to say more, he stops before he can.

“I would never think or say anythin’ like that ‘bout you. You’re my girl, right?” He kisses her mouth, lets it linger. Before she can complain about the softness, about what he’s saying, “Ron, I’m serious–” He’s laughing some when she tries to squirm away, wraps his arms around her tight.

“Get off.”

“Nu-uh.”

She twists around in his grip, so her back is against his chest, but he doesn’t let go. She gives up after a few half-assed attempts. It’s quiet between them, she doesn’t feel as riled up as before. Veronica presses her lips together, doesn’t say anything for a long time.

“Rick killed Vince.”

Jacob rubs over her thigh with his hand, “Good for him.”

She pauses for only a second, “I’m workin’ with him right now. Patrick, I mean.”

“I know.”

Veronica is still. And then she tries to turn to see him better, “What.”

“I already know that you’re workin’ with him,” Jacob says the words slow, since he thinks she didn’t hear him, “Was I not supposed to?”

“No! Are you followin’ me or somethin’?”

“Nah,” he’s watching her, looks a little amused with her reaction, “Was just - waitin’ for you to tell me, yanno?” She stares back, a bit defensive. He figured her out pretty quickly, it’s a little unsettling. But she doesn’t say that out loud. She fixes him with a look, eyebrows lifting high on her forehead. Jacob relents after awhile, “I just...I knew you were workin’ with him. But I trust you, Ron.”

Veronica clicks her teeth, his smile widens, “Sure. Yeah. Stop followin’ me.”

“I don’t.”

“Uh-huh--”

“I got a guy who does that for me already - ow! Ronnie, I’m kiddin’!”

.

.

Veronica looks up when the car rounds the corner, the shine of the headlights spilling over her. Quietly, she takes one more hit from her cigarette, tosses it and stubs it out with her shoe. Headlights shut off and two car doors slam, almost in unison.

“Hey, V!”

Jax’s voice is the first thing she hears, Veronica doesn’t greet him. Only waits until Rob is in front of her, he’s looking at her curiously, “You’re here late.”

Veronica shrugs her shoulders up and down, “I need’a talk to you.” Rob seems to be fine with that, he lingers by her side while Jax goes up ahead, unlocking the door to Rob’s place and going inside. Veronica follows, Rob is right behind her.

“You didn’t bring Jacob?” He sounds honestly perplexed about that, “You guys okay?”

“Yeah,” Veronica nods once, “He’s tied up with something.”

Rob mumbles something underneath his breath, Veronica’s sure it was a smartass comment, so she doesn’t engage further.

“Haven’t seen you all week.”

Veronica is quiet for a few seconds, “...had some stuff I had to take care of.” It’d been a week since Rafael had came into her house, and Jacob was still more or less on edge. Veronica can’t blame him.

When they’re inside, she strips from her jacket, trailing after Rob and Jax while they head to the basement. Jax is the first to turn on the light, excited to stretch out on the couch. But someone’s occupying it - Veronica recognizes her.

“Ryan!” Jax exclaims, surprised. She’s curled up into a small ball on the couch, hair covering her face and shoulders, “Casey’s been looking for you.” Ryan gives some half-assd reply, mumbling something. She’s definitely out of it, Jax goes to work with helping her sit up. Veronica’s not too concerned, she’ll call Dawson later so he can stop worrying.

Veronica pulls her weight up onto the table so she’s comfortable, there’s a few balled up pieces of paper on the surface. She tosses one leisurely to the trash can in the corner, misses from how far it is. Rob is still watching her, “You wanted to talk.”

Her head definitely feels clearer, like she can get her point across more evenly. Which is a good thing - over the course of the week, she’d definitely felt a little too itchy to sit still. And it’s a bit scary that Jacob seemed to read that so well, took it in and handled it so easily. She doesn’t know how he can keep a cool head all the time, when she’s constantly crawling up the walls. She turns to face Rob, his dark eyes are focused onto her.

“Some money’s missin’.”

Rob blinks, sticks his tongue  out to lick at the corner of his mouth, “Yeah? How much?”

“At least ten grand. I haven’t really...gotten an exact number.”

“How do you know it’s missing?”

“I know.”

“V, maybe you’re being--”

“Paranoid?” Veronica shakes her head, “No.” All she knew was numbers - it was the main reason people kept her around for so long, “I think it’s Devin.”

“Devin’s not stupid,” Rob scoffs, begins clearing the table of the paperwork and trash there, as if he needs to keep himself busy. He’s not looking at her anymore, Veronica shifts, “He wouldn’t do somethin’ like that.”

“Not stupid - but desperate. In debt. And he’s got a kid.”

“So?”

“So - when money goes missin’, it’s a problem, Rob. It’s your people too--”

“Doesn’t feel like it,” he says, meeting her eyes. The brown is surprisingly hard, “This is a partnership, right? We do it together, V. When’s the last time we did anything together?”

She presses her lips together, makes her voice lower, “Ain’t really a good time to start actin’ like a pussy.”

“I’m not. I’m just sayin’--” He cuts himself off, shaking his head, “...you told Jacob? About the money?”

“No.”

“Don’t think it’s him?”

“Why would Jacob take money?” Rob makes another noise of disbelief, Veronica’s mouth is sneering up, “What’s the problem--”

He suddenly leans close, real close, “The problem is that you don’t see what I’m trying to do, V. I gave ‘em a chance - Jacob, his cousins, Patrick and everyone else you keep draggin’ into our shit. Our shit. You’re gonna get yourself killed.”

“I’m handlin’ it--”

“Yeah? And how’s that working out for you?” She glares at him, Rob stares right back at her, “You don’t see the big picture here. West, the Italians, Mexicans - whoever. You’re always right in the fuckin’ middle and I’m tryin’--” He inhales, tries to exhale slowly, “I’m trying to make sure we have something to fall back on. Before you fuck everything up.”

It takes only a second for his words to sink in, Veronica’s face falls slightly slack, “...you took the money?”

“Invested it, yeah.”

“Without tellin’ me.”

“I was goin’ to--”

“You stole from me.”

“V--” He tries to touch her, Veronica forces his hand away with one violent gesture. He looks a little hurt by that, reaches to touch her shoulder again - she jerks away this time. It’s quiet for a long time, Jax is silent too, he’d been watching when they had began to get louder than normal. And she does not blame him, she never argues with Rob, “Listen to me--”

Veronica is already up and pushing past him. He follows after her, because he’s Rob. And when he tries the last time to touch her, Veronica turns to face him - red hot anger has bled into her chest, making it difficult to breathe for a moment. It’s like the same record over and over again, stuck on a continuous loop, putting any type of trust into someone just proved to be absolute shit.

“Veronica--”

“You’re lucky I don’t get Jacob to come here and fuckin’ kill you. Don’t touch me--”

“Like Jacob’s done anythin’ for us so far!”

“You’re fucking me over!”

“I’m trying to help! You won’t listen to me!”

“Yeah? Fuckin’ skip town, asshole. I see you again, it’s not fucking Jacob you gotta worry ‘bout.”

She distinctly hears him calling after her when she leaves, Jax too. Veronica takes the subway home, as she usually does, she sits in her seat - slightly slumped, biting at her thumbnail, too heated to really sit still. Jacob wouldn’t be home tonight, not after what happened with Rafael - it would be a quick job, she was sure of that.

As soon as she is off the train, she notices the chill. Of fucking course she was too pissed to remember to grab her jacket, fucking figures. Tomorrow, the first thing she plans to do is talk to Devin, and maybe he can--

“You still live in this shit hole?”

Veronica stops at the foot of the stairs, lifts her head to see someone leaning against the railing there. Tawny is standing there, smoking like she doesn’t have a care in the world. Veronica makes a face, debates whether or not she should go around her or just step on her to get her out the way.

“What’re you even doin’ here?”

“Lookin’ for you,” she finishes off her cigarette, tosses it and pulls out another, “You gotta light?”

“You gotta fuckin’ clue? Move outta the way.”

“Dex been lookin’ for you.” Veronica stops on the first step, turns her head to see Tawny looking at her, “What you lookin’ all surprised for, tonta? You thought he wasn’t gonna come back or somethin’?” She stands, she’s only a inch or two shorter than Veronica, “You real stupid, huh?”

“Hey, here’s a good fuckin’ idea,” Veronica turns to face her fully, “He knows where I live, right? Ain’t nothin’ stopping him.”

Tawny scoffs, even laughs a bit in Veronica’s face, “He’s tryin’ to turn over a new leaf, V. Be all respectful and shit. ‘Cause, y’know, I got a good reason to come here and fuckin’ kill you--”

“Good reason, huh?”

“Jorge been missin’ for three months and I know--”

“Why don’cha try goin’ fishin’, yeah? You might come up with something.”

“No me jodas, white girl,” Tawny hisses, “I’ll--”

“Hey, Ron. Who’s your friend?”

Jacob’s voice sounds from the bottom of the stairs, from behind Tawny. Tawny turns around, irritated. Veronica keeps quiet for the time being - loosening her grip around the pocket knife tucked away, she’d been pretty close to pulling it. As always, Jacob has good timing. He’s watching Tawny with a slight quirk to his head, flickering his eyes over to Veronica, blowing smoke from his mouth.

“Mind your business, verga,” Tawny is far from in the mood, “This ain’t got nothin’ to do with you.”

“If you’re askin’ about Jorge,” Jacob almost lazily makes his way up the first and second step, stopping one short of Tawny’s, “kinda is my business.”

Tawny’s expression becomes more aggressive, she glares right at Jacob, “Fuck you just say? You tryin’ to get your tongue cut out, little boy? Fuckin’ try it.”

Jacob brings his cigarette back up to his mouth, lifts an eyebrow as she spits her words, “Don’t take it so personally - did the world a big fuckin’ favor, yanno?” Even as he speaks, his eyes don’t stray from Veronica, who’s staring at the girl with an almost volatile look. Odds aren’t really in her favor - if Veronica shoves Tawny, she’s pretty sure Jacob isn’t going to catch her.

Before Tawny can say anything or Veronica can make a move, there’s the sound of footsteps heading in their direction. Veronica scoffs when she sees who it is, Jacob breathes out a laugh, and Tawny just looks more annoyed.

“There a problem here?”

“Nah,” Jacob turns to face Elijah first, breaking his face out into an easygoing smile, “Nice night out, though. Right? Shouldn’t you be enoyin’ it, Officer Sir?”

Elijah crosses his arms, he’s not looking at Jacob really - more of Veronica. She schools her expression to something less hostile, folds her arms so he doesn’t think she’s reaching for anything, “Stalkin’ me?” 

Elijah doesn’t say anything to that, his serious eyes flick to Tawny pointedly, as if he’s waiting for her to leave. They all are. She clicks her teeth again, turns to face Veronica with this sickly sweet smile, “Watch your back, V. Dex don’t like waitin’ no more.” With that, she turns around, shoves her shoulder hard against Jacob’s on her way down and walks past Elijah. 

Jacob returns his attention to Veronica, setting his mouth in a firm line. He heard it too - Dex. The name is enough to send her stomach into anxious knots. As if noticing where her thoughts are headed, Jacob steps closer, only for the Detective to speak up again. 

“Blanche.” 

She looks up. 

“We found him.”

“What--” 

“Miguel. We found Miguel.”

.

.

She hasn’t slept yet. 

Through the windows, she can see the sun is beginning to rise. Wiping a hand over her forehead and down the expanse of her face, Veronica sighs heavily. She hears Jacob shift beside her, the warmth coming from him is definitely a comfort. The only reason she hasn’t gone out of her element, the only reason she’s staying calm in this sort of situation. 

She’s been to plenty of police stations, but every time she steps into one - she feels like she’s being watched, judged. Like she doesn’t belong but does at the same time. Most officers she’s already met. She stands in front of the table, peeling open the box in front of her to get a better look inside. 

Oh. Yeah. This stuff - it’s definitely Miguel’s. 

She recognizes most of it. Elijah said it was a few things Juana had dropped off. Veronica isn’t sure what she’s supposed to do with it, Valerie would probably want it more than her. She picks through the things listlessly, lingering on a particular flannel shirt. It was one of Miguel’s favorites, he was always wearing it. 

She keeps quiet, her eyes are burning again. When Detective Howard had said they’d found Miguel’s body, she felt as if she’d been punched in the gut. Apparently, his remains were found in an abandoned car across town, only a few parts though. Not enough to identify him immediately. Veronica wishes that was enough for her - she really did. 

She wishes Valerie didn’t have to go through stuff like that.  She wishes Jacob wasn’t here to see her cry. 

Frustrated, she blinks back tears, but her breathing gives her away, and Jacob notices almost instantly. He curls an arm around her shoulders, kisses her head, but doesn’t say anything. It’s a simple gesture, but it means more than he probably knew. Most of her weight leans into him, even as she holds the shirt closer to her chest. 

“He doesn’t deserve this,” Veronica breathes, “He...”

“I know, Ron.” 

“I should’ve--”

“There was nothin’ nobody could do, okay?” 

She goes quiet, swallows only once before nodding. She doesn’t look at him though, she doesn’t have the stomach for that yet. The door opens, both of them look up to see Elijah in the doorway, he has a folder under one arm. Like always, his expression is open and maybe a bit too sincere. Veronica glances back at the box, keeps her eyes there. 

“We can keep this,” Jacob speaks up first, “The stuff.” 

Elijah stops on the other side of the table, nods, “Yeah. All his personal belongings. Miss Fernandez - uh, Juana - she claimed most of the things out of the house. She was here earlier, with Valerie--”

“Did she look okay?” Veronica asks, Valerie’s name catches her attention quickly, “Valerie, I mean.” 

“Yeah,” Elijah nods, “Really hyper.” 

That’s a bit of a relief to hear - Veronica wishes she could make the time to see her more. Kid kind of grew on her, which was a a little strange. Never liked her much before, always cried when Veronica held her as a baby. 

“Anything else?” Elijah looks up at this, focuses on Veronica, “’Sides the car, did you find anything else?” 

He makes a bit of a face, like he doesn’t want to say much, but Jacob gives him a look and he exhales, opening the folder in his hands, “We found out who the car belongs to. An elderly women, she lives a few miles up from the station, actually. Her car was stolen a few months ago. That’s as far as our lead goes. Car was wiped clean when it was found.” 

Veronica stays quiet, presses her mouth together to keep from saying anything she would regret. What pieces of shit - to get rid of Miguel like that. Like he was nothing, like he was trash. Like Dex didn’t grow up with the guy, like he didn’t have a daughter. Jacob tightens his arm around her shoulders when he feels her tense, her nails are digging into her palms. 

“What’re you going to do with his body?” 

“He’ll be handed over to his family - Juana said she would call you later with details,” Elijah is eyeing her, “Blanche,” she lifts her eyes from the box, sees him staring at her, “If...If you have anything you want to say to me, now would be a good time.” 

She fixes her jaw, immediately looks away, “Can we get a minute? Alone.” 

Elijah frowns briefly, but he puts up no protest, “I’ll be outside.” 

When he leaves the room, Veronica is biting at her nails, she’s practically itching, “I’ll kill him,” She says it so quietly, she doesn’t think Jacob hears her at first, “I’ll really kill him. Him and--”

“I’m going to take care of it,” His eyes are dark when she turns around to face him, “I’m gonna take care of everything.” 

Veronica stares at him for a few seconds, “Yeah?” 

He uses his thumbs to wipe underneath her eyes, her makeup is probably smearing ut he doesn’t seem to care, “’Course, baby,” His lips linger on the top of her head before he pulls away, “First thing’s first though, we’re gettin’ outta that place.” 

“‘Cause of Tawny?” 

“Is that her name?” 

“Fuck her.” 

“Mmm, yeah. Fuck her.” 

“She can rot like the rest of ‘em.”

He tucks a length of hair behind her ear, “We should move closer to Vito. Or Jax - he was sayin’ some apartments--”

That reminds her, Veronica sniffs, lifting her chin, “I got somethin’ to tell you. ‘Bout Rob.” 

Jacob’s expression changes again - like before. Firm line to his lips, dark of his eyes. He can already tell from her tone it’s nothing good. His eyebrows pick up, “What’s wrong?” 

“He--” 

“Blanche,” The door opens, Elijah is standing there, “Your ride’s outside.” 

She blinks, a frown touches her face, “I didn’t call for nobody.” 

“They’re askin’ for you. Said you called.”

“I didn’t.”

“Humor me, Blanche.” 

Last time she’d left a police station for a ride, she’d ended up running into Rafael. So, she nudges her head at Jacob, cuing for him to come with her - he’s sure to tuck the box of Miguel’s things under his arm and follow her. He gives a playful, one-handed salute to Elijah, which he ignores. When they are outside, the light is annoying enough that Veronica lifts a hand to shield her eyes at first. 

“V! Hey, V! Over here!” 

Beside a bright red car parked illegally across two spaces is Patrick and Junie. She’s hanging off of Patrick’s side, which she usually does - whenever Veronica sees her, that’s typically what she’s doing. And Patrick practically lights up when he spots Jacob, crosses the small length to get to them and meet them at the steps. 

“Hey, jailbirds,” Patrick grins at Veronica, flashing his teeth. And then towards Jacob, “Lookin’ this good this early should be criminal, Jake.” 

“Yeah, thanks,” Jacob’s voice isn’t amused, he fixes Patrick with a look, “Real funny.” 

“Mmm,” Patrick makes a show of darting his tongue out to wet his lips, before looking back to Veronica, “So you told ‘im already?” 

Veronica shrugs a shoulder, “Already knew.”

Patrick grins, “Beauty and brains, hm?” 

“Hiya, V!” Junie pops up from behind Patrick, settling by his side with this big grin. Her smile was always a little unsettling, blonde curls propped on her head in a ponytail, sunglasses holding her hair from her face, “How’s it goin’?” She blows a ridiculously large bubble with her gum, only to suck it back in. 

Veronica can feel a headache coming on, dealing with them at the same time was like talking to a wall, “Junie, I thought you were gonna stay with Hector.” 

“Hector?” Junie blinks big eyes at her, and then looks at Patrick, “You didn’t tell her?” 

“Tell me what?” 

“Killed ‘im.” 

She says that startlingly loud, with confidence. Veronica has to glance over her shoulder to make sure Detective Howard didn’t follow them out, “You - what.” 

“Rick told me to,” Junie says, chewing on her gum, “Heard what happened with the Callaways, fuckin’ sucks.” She nudges Patrick in the ribs, like they have a good joke only they know, “Shouldn’t mess with people like that, V. Fuckin’ animals.” 

Patrick laughs loudly. Veronica stares at them both, narrowing her eyes, “You know how stupid that is, right? T’ off Hector - we shouldn’t even be talkin’ about--” 

“You should’a seen it, V. You would’ve loved it. Head went pop,” She continues like she doesn’t hear Veronica, “Like that time with Caleb and Nico--” 

“Stop, both of you fuckin’ stop,” That makes them quiet, Patrick is still grinning though, “I’m busy so--”

“Not too busy to say bye to our dear friend Vince, right?” Patrick raises his eyebrows at her, “Gotta finish what we started. Can’t miss it.” 

“Yeah, V,” Junie obviously agrees with him, “We’re dumpin’ both of ‘em.” 

“Fun,” Veronica’s tone is dry, “Real fun.” 

Junie continues smiling, “Have a heart.” That’s ironic coming from her.

Jacob has been quiet throughout the conversation, watching them as if he’s trying to figure them out. Veronica doesn’t blame him. But Junie spots it, she flickers her eyes over to him, like she’s just noticing him for the first time, “Who’s the guy?” 

Patrick speaks up, “That’s the guy I was tellin’ you about in the car, June. Veronica’s boyfriend - cute, right?”

Junie makes a face at cute, but keeps her attention on Jacob nonetheless, “What’cha lookin’ at?” 

Jacob doesn’t miss a beat, “Tryin’ to figure that out.” 

“Lemme know when y’do,” Junie’s face is blank now. Her eyes always reminded Veronica of endless pits. She was a lot like Patrick in that aspect, going from sweet to sour in a second flat. It was unnerving. And then Junie is laughing, right in their faces. She shoves at Veronica’s shoulder playfully, she barely reacts to it, “Lighten up, V! It’s a funeral!” 

Junie and Patrick leave them both there, it’s Junie’s car so she rounds to the driver while he gets into the passenger. Veronica and Jacob stays where they are, side by side. Veronica begins muttering things underneath her breath, mostly “bitch” and “asshole.” 

“Fuck is up with them?” Jacob lets out an almost breathless laugh, of course he could still find the humor in this. It reminds her of Vito’s reaction to Patrick before. 

“Patrick is always like that,” Veronica says, shrugging one shoulder. He already knew that, so she’s guessing he meant Junie, “Junie’s fuckin’ nuts. Put the two of ‘em together and four seconds later, you’re ready to blow your brains out.” 

“No shit?”

“No. Shit.” Veronica is silent for a few moments, she glances over at the box in Jacob’s arms, exhales slowly, “Y’don’t have to come.”

Jacob snorts, “Don’t trust Pat as far as I can throw ‘em, yanno?”

“Jacob--” 

“Plus, I’m a people person, Ron.” 

“I’m serious.” 

“So am I.” Junie lays on thick on the horn, and Veronica pointedly flips her off. She’s pretty sure she hears the both of them laughing. She grimaces at Jacob, and he picks his eyebrows up right back at her, “Don’t wanna keep ‘em waiting, right?” 

The ride there is unconventional. Junie and Patrick argue over a station on the radio, and it ends with Junie threatening to stab him and him calling her a series of names. Jacob reaches between the two seats, turning it off altogether, which they don’t seem happy about but seem to know better than complain. It takes thirty minutes to get where they’re going, away from too many buildings and traffic. Every second that goes by, Veronica grows more and more antsy. And Jacob seems to notice, he puts a hand on her thigh, curling his fingers around her knee. 

Junie is excited to get out of the car, she gets out as fast as she can, forgetting to put it into park and retrieve the keys from the ignition. Patrick does it for her before they can roll too far, hes out right after her. When Veronica is out, she stays by Jacob, keeping by his side. She spots Felix further up, he’s directly under the brudge, by the water. 

Leaning against Patrick’s Charger, he looks up when they get close enough. 

“Go okay?” He directs the question to Patrick, who settles beside him familiarly. 

He shrugs, “More or less. Got a little messy, but we’re good.” 

Felix’s eyebrows lift, “Messy?” 

“I took care of it.” 

“Where’s Natalie?” Veronica asks before they can begin to go back and forth. They look at her, “What did you do with her?” 

“Dumped her,” Felix says offhandedly, “She was liability--” 

Veronica faces him, “You killed her?” 

“No,” Patrick answers for him, “Have some faith in us, V.” He shares a look with Felix, who cracks a grin and Patrick winks at him, “Dropped her off.”

“Where?” 

“Don’t remember, memory’s foggy.”

“Patrick--” 

“Point is, she’s alive. Calm down.” 

“When I tell you to do somethin’, I want it done right, Patrick,” Veronica’s voice is low, offers no room for argument,��“Clear?” 

Felix doesn’t look happy with that, but Patrick grins - eyeing her, “Crystal. I’ll remember that next time,” he glances in Jacob’s direction, cocks his head a bit, “You’re awfully quiet.”

“Don’t got nothin’ to say.” Jacob tells him, he left Miguel’s belongings in the car, and he’s currently pulling out his pack of cigarettes, searching his pockets for his lighter. 

“Can we hurry up this already?” Junie is the closest to the car, looks annoyed, “Open the trunk!” 

Felix pulls out the keys in his pockets, unlocking and pulling open the trunk for all to see what’s inside. Veronica cringes at the smell - blood and cleaning supplies. There’s a few oddly shaped lumped together trashbags inside, all tied tight. She’s guessing it was Felix’s work. Looked too neat to be Junie’s or Patrick’s. 

Junie’s eyes seem to alight when she sees it, she leans close - pursing her lips in a pout after awhile, “Which one is Hector’s? I wanted to see his face.” 

“One on the left, I think. Legs, lower half mostly,” Felix tells her, seeming to admire his handy work. 

Patrick whistles lowly, “Nice work, Felix.” He even claps him on the shoulder affectionately. 

“I’m gonna miss Hector,” Junie whines, standing up straight, “He was like family.” And then she begins laughing, Patrick soon following after her like she told a good joke. 

Veronica makes a face, glances over at Jacob. He’s smoking his cigarette, watching them as well. They exchange a look before Veronica returns her attention to the three of them, Jacob is he one to clap his hands twice to get them to look over, “Hey, listen up.”

Junie seems eager to hear any news, she turns to glance back at Veronica and Jacob - Patrick does the same, so does Felix after awhile, “We do this - no talkin’ about it, no gloatin’ about it. Anybody comes to you askin’ about Hector, what do you say?” No reply - Junie purses her lips, “Junie.”

She heaves an melodramatic sigh, like she’s heard it too many times to count, “Tell ‘em I don’t know.” 

Veronica gives Patrick a look, he grins again, “Y’know me, V. My lips are sealed.” His grin widens when he catches Jacob’s eyes. Veronica doesn’t have to say anything to Felix, she’s well aware he’s not as reckless as the two beside him. 

“This stays here. I’m fuckin’ serious.” 

Junie looks as if she’s fighting a smile now, “Cross my heart, V.”

When Veronica seems satisfied, Felix pushes off the side of the car, reaches over - and he closes the trunk. 

.

.

[chulochingoncomelon]

Fecal Incontinence

Going into our Senior year, Kyle was captain of the hockey team, I was captain of the rugby team, Megs and Josh were first chairs in band, and Charlie was our buddy. Charlie, we found out through high school, was the son of a trucker. Thats why when he was bored, he would always act like he was driving a truck and shifting gears. He didn’t have a lot of money, but he was the best of guys, and one of my best friends. If someone joked about his appearance, or his deep southern draw, Kyle and I made sure they never laughed in his direction again. At Prom last year, Kyle and I split the costs to make sure Charlie got to go. This year, Charlie would save our asses.

It was after one of the final football games of the year. Our team was the worst as usual, but that didn’t stop us from celebrating a minor loss. We only lost by two touchdowns. Kyle and I “acquired” a twenty-four pack of Natural Lite, Nattie for short. I drove an old, beat up, 1984 beamer. Red. It was built like a tank. But, what I loved most, is the fact we could keep a cooler full of beer in the trunk and all I had to do was pull down the armrest in the back, and it would open right into the trunk. Perfect.

After the game, Kyle, Charlie, and I were waiting on Josh. While we were waiting by the band room I hear a tap on Kyle’s window. Kyle, sitting shotgun, looked over and saw Mr Adelot. Yes, Craig’s father. Along with his social awkwardness, Craig was also the son of the band teacher. Kyle slowly rolled down his window.

“Hey gentlemen,” Mr. A said in his stuck up, nasally voice, “what are you four doing tonight” “Four,” I ask. “Yes four. You, Mr. Kyle, Mr. Charles, and Mr. Joshua.” I always hated when he used our names like that. “Every Friday, you four get together and drive like a few hooligans when you leave here, and was wondering what you are doing.”

“Well, sir,” i stammered, “we usually just drive around, head to the movies, or go to a little get together, is that a problem?”

“Oh, of course not,” he sheepishly grinned, “ just wanted to know what my son would be getting into with you boys tonight.”

“Your son?” We all said darting looks around each other, confused as hell.

“Well, of course, my son, Craig. He was so excited when I mentioned that you wanted him to join your group tonight. Here Craig,” he reached over and opened the passenger door, “now don’t be out too late and have fun.”

Craig slowly appeared from behind his father, grinning. As his father leaves, we are just staring at him. Josh hops over, sees Craig and asked, “What the fuck you doing here ate-a-lot,” and sits down in the back seat in the already opened door. Charlie reaches over and punches him in the left arm, telling him to be nice.

“He’s apparently joining us tonight, per his dad, so shut up and let him in” I said shaking my head in disbelief. Josh got out of the car, pointed to the middle seat, and said harshly “get in, lots”.

Craig got in the car and immediately started chatting. That nervous chatter where you don’t breath you just talk to have some kinda of noise. We screeched out of the parking lot, and about two blocks down the road, I slammed on the breaks and pulled over. I turned around staring at Craig and said. “Plead, just shut the fuck up, Craig. Do not speak. Do not think. Do not waste my oxygen. I don’t know why you are here but we are stuck with each other for the night. All five of us. You will not speak a word about our antics, to anyone. Now, since you are in the middle seat, you are responsible for our beer. If someone is getting low, your only job is to pass them a fresh beer from the back. K?”

He nodded nervously, but I knew he was happy just to not have to spend another night listening to Bach or Chopin. So we left and started drinking. All was going good as we drove around, when all of a sudden, Craig says, “um guys, how long are we gonna continue to drive with these cops behind us?” I look in my review mirror and see three cops with lights blaring. How I did'nt notice, I have no clue, but there they were. Oh shit. I see the school up ahead and pull into the band parking lot. We called it that because it rested beside the band room entrance that lead to the rest of the school.

we pull in. The three cop cars pull in around us and all three drivers hop out with guns drawn. I, stupidly, hopped out with hands up in the air. Before I could say anything, I hear, in a familiar voice, “Drew? Is that you?” It was my neighbor, and fortunately a police officer. “What the hell are you boys doing?” He then turned to the other two cops and told them it was ok, that he had it from here. He walked over and saw the rest of the guys and Craig. He slowly asks, “Is that…Craig? Craig Adelot? What is he…” I interrupted him saying, “long story, but he’s hanging with us tonight.”

“Why don’t you boys pull over to the band wall there, and i will pull up on your right. Drew, once over there, you need to get out of the car and come talk to me, understood?“I nod up and down and get back in. I tell the guys to shut up and I will handle everything.

We pull up to the band wall, I get out and walk over to Officer Wright. “Get in,” he said. I walked around the front of the car and open the front passenger door and get in. He turns to me and asks, “What the hell were you three doing? Do you realize that rookie cop saw you blasting through not one but four, FOUR, stop signs? He didn’t know what the hell was happening! Your lucky he didn’t start shooting your ass when you jumped out of your car like an idiot.” The whole time he kept ripping into my ass. While I was listening and nodding my head in understanding, i could see my car rocking back and forth. Out of no where Josh opens the door and gets out. I continue to nod at Officer Wright as I look over his should at what was going on.He looks in my direction and with a grin puts a finger to his lips and starts walking towards the front of the building. He walks up to the far corner, just at the edge of the headlights shining on the wall. With his back turned, a dark stain on the wall appears. He’s fucking peeing on the wall. Trying to keep a straight face I watch in horror as Josh shakes and runs back to the car. Once in the car, i see it rocking around a few more times, violently this time, and all the windows roll down.

“Well, Drew, what else do you have to say for yourself?” Officer Wright questions. “I understand sir. Will pay more attention and will slow down. Absolutely right, I was being stupid and uncaring of others.” “Good. I am going to let you off with a warning. A few last things. One, we are going to drop Craig off at home. Where are you boys heading after that?” “Charlie’s” I said without thinking. “Okay. When we arrive at Charlie’s I want the rest of you to go in and not leave for the rest of the night. And when you get there I want one of his parents to wave at me. And last, Tell Josh if he has to take a piss again, not to do it in front of a cop car, the port-o-potties are right over there.”

I get out of the car and hurriedly get back in mine. I immediately start chewing all the guys out, especially Josh, for being such an idiot. As I am looking around I see Kyle, Josh, and Charlie all have their shirts pulled up around their noses. “What the hell are ya’ll doing?” I ask. “Josh pulls down his shirt just enough to mumble out in a giggle "take a smell,” and just as fast pulled it back up. I take in a big draw. The absolute horrible stench that singed my noise hairs was gut wrenching. I never smelled a smell so foul in all my life. “What the hell is that?” I ask as I quickly followed suit with the rest of them. Josh now laughing hysterically, while pointing at Craig, says, “Craig…he shit himself. He was so scared he shit himself!” I could not believe it. He shit himself in my car. I had it with him. The whole time as we drove to Craig’s, I was cursing so much, I think I invented at least four new words. We pull at the edge of his driveway. Josh gets out. Craig slowly gets out and starts walking up the driveway, looking like a cowboy who has been on his horse all day. Josh runs back and while laughing some more, tells Officer Wright. I look in my review mirror and see Officer Wright face palm and shakes his head. Josh runs back and gets back in.

We leave Craig’s and I tell the guys where we are going next. Charlie, stutters out, “Guys, my parents are out of town, what are we gonna do?” As we are going back and forth trying to plan out what we are going to get out of this mess, I see a glimmer in Charlie’s eyes. We pull up to Charlie’s, and before I even get the car in park, Charlie hops out and takes off running to his front door. “Fucker is gonna lock us out!” Josh says as he darts out behind him. Kyle and I look at each other, shrug our shoulders and get out of the car. We get inside after the other two and Josh is pacing in the living room. “He’s fucking locked himself in his parents room, what the hell is he doing?” He asked rhetorically. And then Charlie, or should I say Charlie’s “mom” appeared. Charlie had run into his parents room, grabbed his moms bathrobe, bra, and a mop head that was kept under the sink. Bra was stuffed with socks. Mop head on his head with the rest of handle down the back of his shirt, he tied a towel around his head, and threw on the bathrobe over everything. The three of us are staring st him and Kyle says, “No way in hell this is going to work. Charlie walks over to the front glass door. Half peeks out and gives a wave at Officer Wright. Officer Wright acknowledges with a quick "bleep bleep” of the siren and pulls off.

I collapse on the couch in amazement. That just happened. Tonight I was almost shot down by an itchy finger rookie, Craig shit himself in my car, and we fooled a cop with a mop head and a bathrobe. My night is complete. I lost my buzz an hour ago, Im going to sleep.