#i gotta stare at the ceiling and think about this forever now thanks bye

[lanafofana]

ARE YOU KIDDING ME??!?!! THIS IS PERFECTION 😭😭💕💖

There exists a certain breed of people, Emmrich Volkarin has observed, who live in the excesses of their own making, and he has always known himself to be one of them. In all things, but especially in the amorous, his nature unfurls in grandiosity. He has often assured himself that this is a mark of distinction. They blush, all of them, do they not? Their eyes dart sideways, their mouths falter into embarrassed gratitude: Thank you, Emmrich, thank you, truly, you shouldn’t have gone to such trouble.

It makes no difference whether it is the routine bonds of years or the fleeting conspiracies of a night’s darkness; his approach is unvarying. Coffee will await them in the morning, placed just so, beside a carefully curated tray of toiletries reserved for such occasions. He will inquire, solicitous as ever: Do you have somewhere to be? Something you need? Someone you need? The questions perch delicately on the lip of a deeper one: Is it me you need? More of me, perhaps? A carriage, at least, if not my company?

It was Johanna, before she was finally exiled from the Watch, who delivered the line that needled its way into him. 

"Four decades and counting, Volkarin, and still you rattle around alone. Ever wonder if it's because you drown people in your godsdamned devotion until they can’t find air to breathe? Pah.”

At first, he dismissed it with a smile slanted into a grimace, chalking it up to the jagged edge of her temper. Pah, he repeated with sardonic flourish, tossing the sound to the ceiling as if it were a paper ball aimed at a wastebasket. Pah, he said again later, softer, practicing the shape of her disdain in the privacy of his reflection.

He stands in the Lighthouse, his thoughts drifting back to that exchange from years ago. She knows nothing. Johanna, with her clipped words and sharpened angles, has no use for sentimentality, no patience for sweetness. And yet, she is content in her clean, unaffectionate way, while he—ah, he hovers just shy of it, circling its edges. Almost there. Soon, he promises himself, the elusive shape of it will solidify. Soon. 

How else does one fasten themselves to others when born not merely from nothing, but from no one? A life without roots, without the parental gaze threading affection through the years, without the cushioning sprawl of family. You weave your own sentimentality from the tatters left behind, Emmrich tells himself. You make it elaborate, ornate, and irresistible. You do not ensnare—no, the word feels like a tooth snagging on cloth. He has no traps, no cages. He is not predatory but prodigal, spilling over with the weight of his own unstirred affection. A maximalist, yes. 

What he wishes to show them, these transient silhouettes in the gallery of his life, is the sheer abundance of what he carries. Of what they lost by not choosing him. The unspent wealth of tenderness, the meticulous reservoirs he has cultivated for lack of recipients. It can all be theirs, whoever they are. Wouldn’t they understand their fortune, their rare chance to bask in the radiance of such unfettered devotion? Surely they would. Surely.

At thirty-five, his entanglement with the Orlesian art appraiser unraveled, not with drama but with a certain muted inevitability, as though it had been sketched lightly in chalk on a damp morning and then, suddenly, rained over, erased. He tells himself it could not have lasted; she collected men as she might collect unfinished canvases, drawn to their rough edges and faint promise. But once they hardened into something distinct, something complete, she set them aside, indifferent to the final form. 

Emmrich, oh Emmrich, he hears her voice in his memory, though he wonders now if it was her voice at all or merely the soft inflection of her glance, the way her eyes curved away from him like hands withdrawing from a clasp. She had no fondness for gold; it was a color she found gaudy, oppressive, a vulgar punctuation on life's subtler compositions. Her fingers, long and bare, were her own; she had no need of his ring, no desire for the weight of it, least of all on that finger.

Years earlier, there was a boy, a student, like himself, with hair so very dark. They had bumped foreheads in the flickering veilfire, the absurd aftermath of Emmrich’s clumsy attempt to impress: a corpse laid open, its anatomy splayed for inspection, until a wayward wisp animated the flesh, sending them both lurching back, half-startled, half-laughing. It was a frantic affair, feverish and brief, as if passion itself had been distilled into those stolen weeks. He could have loved him endlessly, he thinks, could have folded himself into that golden rhythm forever. Even now, on certain nights, he fancies he can taste him, something like salt, something like cheap liquor. 

The boy had left for Minrathous, his parting words wrapped in a promise to write. And he had, at first—letters arriving as steady and sure as a ticking clock, their edges faintly scented with ink and faraway rain. But the rhythm faltered; the clockwork slowed. The letters grew fewer, their voice dimmer, until one day the flow ceased entirely, leaving only silence and the faint echo of a promise gone pale with distance. 

He loved Johanna too, he reflects, with a savage intensity that left the others pale by comparison, though Johanna, predictably, never returned it. Johanna loved her mind and the delicious friction of transgression. You can fuck me while I finish this paper, Volkarin, she had remarked once, without so much as a glance in his direction, her pen scratching insistently at the page.

He remembers the evening with an ache sharpened by detail: the roses, their petals faintly bruised as if blushing at his ineptitude; the wine, swirling darkly in glasses he had scrubbed to a nervous shine; the small box of Orlesian caramels, her favorite, held out with the tentative pride of a schoolboy offering his first essay to an indifferent master. 

He was no one of consequence then, no lauded scholar or dazzling wit, just a young man scraping together gestures from borrowed elegance. And yet, he had tried—oh, how he had tried—pouring his entire being into that fragile theater of romance, as though effort alone might compel the world to forego its indifference. 

The years folded and refolded themselves, their seams disappearing until time became a single, unbroken surface. His voice grew sleek, his purse heavier, his tailoring sharper. He became a presence, one that others noticed. Students watched him with eyes that lingered a beat too long; the occasional noble leaned in, fascinated by his murmurs over the dead, or else drawn by the possibility of extracting something—knowledge, power, perhaps only amusement. 

Take Professor Volkarin’s class, the students murmured, their voices hushed, their smiles sly. He’s quite something to look at, isn’t he?

You are a connoisseur, are you not? the aristocrats would murmur, their words oiled with flattery, their smiles faintly predatory, the question ever a jeweled trap.

Why complicate things? colleagues would say with an air of weary sophistication, their proposals veiled in the thin gauze of propriety. A little diversion never hurt anyone.

Sometimes he allowed himself to be drawn in, sometimes not. These entanglements stretched in strange patterns—weeks collapsing into years, years vanishing into the quiet close of nothing. On certain occasions, he felt the weight of the moment tipping toward something lasting. His lips would part, shaping the beginnings of a plea: stay longer, stay forever. But before the words could leave him, they would pull away, the decision already made, their departure as effortless and inevitable as a candle guttering out in a draft.

At fifty, the lashes ceased to flutter. The students' lingering glances turned polite, their gazes moving past him as if he were part of the room's architecture. The brief romances grew briefer still, coming apart before they could be knotted into anything of substance. No one explained; no one ever said why. But he understood. It was the five, that inevitable syllable that had slipped into his age, heavy and uncompromising, like a note of finality struck too soon.

Once a man stepped into his fifth decade, what could he offer? A handful of years, perhaps, before the decline—before he became a relic of himself. His hair, silver since his youth, could not have been the culprit; its pale sheen had always been mistaken for distinction. No, it was the five, the fatal number, that had crept into his chronology and settled there like an uninvited guest.

Let’s stay together, let’s marry, let’s have children, let’s take them to my parents’ graves someday—this was the whispered litany he carried, a fragile incantation he longed to speak aloud. Sometimes, the words escaped him, offered tentatively to the ears of a lover. Other times, they remained locked within, the moment never ripening enough to bear their weight. With some, he dared to dream aloud; with others, the silence grew louder than the words could ever hope to be.

At fifty-two, improbably, he finds himself among this mismatched, maddening, and strangely endearing group intent on bringing low the gods of old. He rolls his eyes so often that he’s begun to wonder if one day they might stick, leaving him a statue of perpetual disdain. Neve cuts through his facades effortlessly, coaxing from him scraps of childhood he’d long since buried. With Lucanis, every conversation is a duel, the man’s pointed questions prodding at the fragile edges of his carefully constructed dreams of lichdom—questions that dredge up doubt, irritating as a grain of sand lodged beneath the skin. 

Taash grates on him in ways he cannot fully articulate. The endless talk of dragons is a torment he would gladly forego, and yet it is Taash who catches him when an Antaam reaver’s blow leaves him seeing constellations. In Davrin, he glimpses something familiar, an echo of his love for Manfred, and in that recognition, he feels the strange solace of being known. 

Harding is a different matter altogether, her culinary atrocities sparking in him an inexplicable desire to craft a sandwich of such undeniable perfection that it would silence her objections. He imagines her chewing begrudgingly, a reluctant admission forming at the corners of her mouth: yes, cheese on toast is a sandwich.

And then there is Bellara. Bellara, who speaks in a ceaseless cascade of words, her chatter so relentless it should unnerve him. But it doesn’t. He listens and finds himself oddly soothed, her voice filling the spaces he hadn’t realized were empty. 

Rook—yes, Rook. He loves her, loves her with a rawness that feels almost indecent, as though his affection itself were an intrusion. Rook, younger by an expanse of years that feels cruelly conspicuous. Rook, who should belong to someone whose hair has not yet been kissed by silver, whose steps have not yet grown measured by the weight of decades. Rook, whose every second sentence is punctuated with fuck or shit or a biting go kill yourself.

Rook, who comes from Rivain but not truly, her roots stretching from an alienage, a world far from his own. She can read, but poorly, and dismisses it whenever possible. She once made it clear that books belonged to the lives of others, those who grew up with scholars. 

Yet, beneath her defiance, there are moments of vulnerability. Once, she brings him a Venatori missive, the text dense and convoluted, and quietly asks him to read it for her. Her usual boldness has been tempered by something smaller, almost shy; a reluctance to expose what she lacks but a willingness to trust him with it. 

Rook, so utterly unlike anyone he has ever loved, so far from the world of symposiums and necromantic subtleties where he has always thought his affections must dwell. The languages of hypotheses and sciences are foreign to her. But she teaches him other things instead: the delicate art of unlocking what refuses to yield, the precise tension of a pick against the hidden tumblers, the silence required to hear a mechanism surrender. 

Impossibly, unstoppably, he loves her—a love without reason, as if reason had never existed at all. 

Sometimes the tears threaten, and sometimes they come. Not in torrents or grandiose sobs, but as a quiet dampening of his eyes, just enough to blur his vision as he presses his hands against his face in the solitude of night. He is happy—fantastically, achingly happy—because he loves her with a fervor that feels miraculous, and, impossibly, she loves him too. But the clock is cruel. There is no time. There will never be enough time. 

He will die before her—this much he knows—if he chooses to die at all. And when he is gone, she will mourn him, briefly but with a scorching intensity, before moving forward, as the living must. She will find another, someone new to hold, to share her days and her nights. It coils in him, sick and green, this jealousy so sharp it feels like a betrayal of his love for her. He wants her happiness, he tells himself—her boundless, effortless happiness—even if it must come without him. 

And yet, the thought of her in another’s arms, her life spilling into someone else’s—after all these years of waiting, of searching for someone who might stay—it is a wound he cannot quite close. But still, she must be happy. She must. 

Pah, Johanna once said. Yes. Pah.

Rook, who calls him pretty with a disarming frankness, who tilts her head and declares he is too tall, then adds, almost as an afterthought, that she likes his eyes, his hair, his hands. Rook, who raises a defiant middle finger to a merchant scheming to cheat him. Rook, who leads him to Rivain—hers but not hers, a place of half-belonging—and asks, with a sudden softness, if he would like to taste the sea salt in the air with her. 

Rook, Rook, Rook, who calls him her first even as he rasps assurances that he can wait, that he is content to wait. Rook, who bleeds and winces, who admits, without pretense, that it is not nice—not yet—but insists that it will be, if only he’ll press on, again and again, until the awkwardness burns away and something else remains. And then, in time, it does. The lessons, stumbling as they are, yield their strange harvest. 

"Fuck me," she says, sliding onto his lap, the words abrupt and unadorned.

He frowns, as he always does. Not with anger but with a pained, almost mournful reproach, murmuring, "Must you be so crass, my darling?" And then, as if to erase the jaggedness of her demand, he makes love to her instead. 

He loves her with a sincerity so overwhelming it spills into the small rituals of their mornings, saturating every moment. He murmurs it into the curve of her shoulder, stirs it into the coffee he sets gently by her bedside, whispers it to her in the gray light before dawn when she is too drowsy to do more than hum faintly in response, a muffled acknowledgment that feels like the echo of a dream. 

I love you, I love you, I love you, the words repeat themselves in his mind, circling endlessly. He imagines writing them out for her, not once but a hundred times, in the looping grace of Nevarran cursive, and then teaching her to read the script with infinite patience, her fingers tracing the lines as he watches.

One morning, he brings her a bundle of new clothes, tea fragrant and warm, and fresh bandages to replace the ones that had grown stiff with her blood during the night. 

She looks at him and says, “You don’t need to do anything for me, Emmrich.” 

“It is a want, not a must,” he replies softly, and presses a kiss to her cheek. 

“Oh, thank you,” she says after a pause. “I love you.” 

What he truly wants to say he cannot properly construct: please, please, please, don’t go back to the dragon’s hoard. He would bury her in gold himself, pile it at her feet until there was no need for her to seek out treasure elsewhere. Please, please, please, he thinks, come back to Nevarra with me. Let me love you there, in my house, in my world, away from dragons, from gods, from locks waiting to be broken.

Look, look—won’t she see it, won’t she understand? All that he has, all that he is, lies waiting for her to take. The treasure hunter could rest, abandon her searching, if only she would choose him. Not now, of course, not now when her choice is already him, but later, when the gods lie still and her freedom stretches unbound before her. 

His accounts, his wealth, every piece of his carefully constructed world—she could claim it all, strip it to its bones, and still he would find more for her. Let her be greedy, insatiable; let her empty him entirely. He would gather, he would build, he would conjure whatever she desired, anything to keep her near, anything to make her stay. 

Yes, yes—he could love her forever. 

[icequeenoriginal]

The Meaning of FamILY

Note: I am so sorry for this taking centuries to come out, I blame laziness and writer’s block. So here it finally is, @khadij-al-kubra, the fic you requested. Again, I am so so sorry this took so long to get out. Also, this takes place a year after Intimacy and All Its Forms. Also Happy Late One Year Anniversary of this AU’s blog. 

Thank you @theromnempire for editing. You’re the best!

Names of side characters belong to @hi-i-love-u-bitch. This AU belongs to @ask-spiderverse-virgil and @sugarglider9603

Trigger Warnings: Deaths mentioned, two past minor character death, crying (Let me know if I missed anything)

Pairings: Prinxiety and Logicality

~

Roman was ushered into the living room by his older sister. He couldn’t understand why. Normally when his father came home, he would see Roman sitting at the kitchen table, doing his homework and his father would walk over and ask about before changing out of his work clothes.

Maybe it was a celebration! Or maybe a surprise! But…why was Amá crying?

Roman’s mother looked up and locked eyes with her confused, innocent son. It made her burst into more tears and Roman ran to comfort her.

“¿Amá?¿Por qué lloras mami?” Roman asked while tilting his head to the side. 

Lupita couldn’t help but smile at Roman, almost forgetting what had just happened. She frowned, and more tears fell as she realized what she had to do now.

“Roman ...mi Valiente chico…tengo algo que decirte...se trata de tu padre…”

~

Roman woke up with a start like he did every year on this day. It’s always the same memory that would wake him up like clockwork, ending right before his mom said the words that shattered his world forever. Roman’s brain liked to torture him but pretend to forget the worst part.

He decided not to think about it and just dressed. 

Roman never noticed how quiet the house actually was on this day. Any other day of the year, even if he was the first to wake up, there was some kind of noise. It could be anything from the humming of the ceiling fan or people rushing to get breakfast ready. But today, nothing. All the sounds of the apartment were swept out as if the family occupying the house needed a reminder of what was happening

Maybe Roman just lost his touch with reality on this day. He was never sure, not that it really mattered. He knew the world did not stop just because he is in a shitty mood. Did that ever make him feel any better? No, but it gave him a false motivation to get up and get ready for school.

He walked to the twins' room, like every day, to get them ready for school. Any other of the 365 days of the year, the twins would already be awake, fully ready to run around and make Roman’s morning even more hectic. Today, both had a blanket over their heads and he could hear his little sister sniffling.

He wished it was because of a cold. It never was.

“Vamos, es hora de levantarse,” Roman said, just loud enough for the twins to hear, worried if his voice went any height they could hear how broke it was. 

“NO!” both Jenni and Marco shouted, pulling the blanket simultaneously over their heads. Roman wanted to laugh at the sight, badly.

Instead, he sighed “No no, you guys gotta get up and go to school.”

“NO!” Marco shouted 

“It’s a bad day today!” Jenni cries

“I know guys but we can’t miss school,” Roman said softly.

“We’ll go to school tomorrow!” 

“Yeah, when it’s not Papi’s death day!”

Roman inhaled sharply, it was the first time of the day someone acknowledged what the 17th of February meant. The house somehow got even muter, if that was possible. His sister and brother burst into tears and Roman felt his face heat up. But he couldn’t cry, he was-

A soft, reassuring hand landed on his shoulder as he took a step forward. 

“Amá…” Roman said, his voice strained

Lupita’s eyes were full of storms of sadness, threatening a downpour. “Roman ... ve y desayuna.”

Roman shook his head. He could do it, he had to. His mother had enough on her plate. “Pero Amá--” Lupita cut him off.

“Está bien. No te preocupes por eso”

Roman sighed “Okay.” He was too tired to argue. This day seemed to already take so much out of him and it had hardly had started.

Roman sulked to the kitchen and made himself some toast. Something quick, easy and he was least likely to get sick from. He stared absently, unfortunately making eye contact with his father in an old happy family photo. He sucks in his breath as silent memories began to haunt him like they always do. He hated those more than any amount of his siblings sobbing or screaming in agony. He could tune those out with music, his one constant. These just got louder and louder no matter what he tried.  

What snapped him out of the pitiful void was a vibration from his phone. He pulled it out to reveal a text notification from Patton.

Bestie <3: I’ll be on the fire escape in a minute! Alex stole my sweater again :(((

Roman frowned, had he really taken that long to get ready? He hadn’t even made anyone’s lunch or even breakfast. He wasn’t even sure he was ready to talk to anyone today. Much less to get their glances of pity. Constantly hearing “sorry for your loss” got old quick. Besides, he didn’t want to bring anyone down, especially his best friends, just because of what today is. He sighed and texted Patton back:

Romaine Lettuce :): It’s okay. I’m gonna swing over to school today, go on without me.

Roman saw that Patton had read his text but he didn’t reply. Roman didn’t think much of it, he figured he was still chasing Alex around, and just grabbed his toast as soon as it was done in the toaster.

“Amá! I’m heading out to school! I love you! Bye!” Roman didn’t wait for a reply and ran up the stairs that lead to the roof as he put on his costume. Web swinging always seemed to calm his nerves, or more accurately, distracted him. Something about one mistake and you can fall to your death really makes your other problems seem small. As he was about to fire his first web, a voice shouted for him to halt. 

Patton ran up to him, also in full costume “Wait for me!”

“Pat?” Roman asked, not trying to hide his confusion. “What are you doing here?”

Although Patton had the mask on, It wasn’t hard to tell he was smiling. “I’m going to swing with you.”

“You don’t have to.”

“I know but I want to head to school with you like I always do.”

Roman felt a mixture of happiness and guilt swirl around in his stomach, creating an unpleasant cocktail make just for him. Not that he knew what a cocktail tasted like. 

Roman gave a small smile behind his mask “Okay then Pat, I’ll race you” and took off without another word.

They swung without another word, which relieved Roman. He didn’t want to be asked about how he was doing, the answer was obvious and Roman was tired of being asked it.

Unfortunately, this feeling did not last and Roman quickly returns to his self-pity and dark thoughts. Roman was so lost in his brooding thoughts of the bombardment of sympathy that he would receive through the day that he did not see the tall building in front of him. Thankfully, Patton did and webbed Roman quick enough so that he landed on the roof.

Well...landed is a generous term here. With how fast Roman was going, Patton had to quickly web him and throw him on the roof of the building.

Patton landed gracefully next to him. He placed his hands on his hips and said: “Okay, that’s enough swinging for you, mister!”

“I’m fine Patton, I just wasn’t paying attention this time.”

Patton shook his head, “You’re distracted, understandably so and I know you don’t want to talk about it, even though you should, but I won’t make you. It’s not safe Roman! I can’t let my best friend get hurt again! Not on my watch…”

Roman could see the agony swept into Patton’s eyes. He knew that memories of the year before, bad ones brought nothing but pain, were swarming Patton’s mind. Memories of Roman avoiding him, the fighting, the robot battle, all were tearing Patton down. It was a look far too familiar to him.

Roman ran to Patton as he began to shake. Roman muttered an apology that seemed small to himself but was perfect to Patton. Once Patton was able to calm himself down, he hugged Roman tightly, to show he was never going to let him go. 

“Let’s walk to school okay? I know a game we can play. It’s called “Beautiful Things’. As we walk, we point out the beautiful things we see and why we find them beautiful. Alex and Georgie made it up after Frankie…passed…and we played it all the time”

Roman raised his mask just above his lip to show that he was smiling “That sounds great, Patton, I’d love to.” 

So they snuck off the roof, changed, and walked. They pointed out birds, children, babies, and music playing from cars. Roman had no idea that such a simple game could bring him so much calm, but it did. He never realized there is so much good in the world, that was what they, as heroes, fought for. 

When they got to school, Roman headed to his locker. To an outside viewer, it was nothing out of the ordinary. But for the four, it was breaking the sacred tradition. First, they would meet at Logan’s locker as it was the closest to the entrance. Then they would make their way to their own lockers while catching up with one another. Finally, they would arrive at homeroom to get ready for the school day. 

However, as Roman watched Patton saunter over and embrace Logan, his feet didn’t want to go anywhere except towards an island of isolation. He didn’t want to ruin the happy mood, especially after making Patton think of Frankie so early in the morning. What best friend forces you to remember your dead brother?

He opened his locker and slowly pulled out the books he would need until lunch. When that took less than a minute. He stared at the objects he taped onto the door of his locker over the course of the year. At the top was a small mirror that he suddenly did not want to look into. At the bottom is a whiteboard with reminders of tests written by Logan, supportive messages from Patton, and quick doodles by Virgil. He felt the tug of a small smile on his lips, though it went away quickly.

He had only begun scanning the dozens of photographs he had before two arms snaked their way around his waist. He felt warmth in his chest as his boyfriend’s lips were pressed on the space between his shoulder blades.

“Morning” Virgil said, tiredness leaking into his speech.

Roman smiled softly and leaned slightly into the touch. “What leads you to my neck of the woods?” Roman asked as if he did not already know the answer.

“I needed to escape before I drowned in the puppy love.”

It wasn’t the answer he was expecting so he pressed on, “What do you mean?” Roman turned his head slightly to look at Virgil. Virgil, without lifting his cheek off Roman’s back, unfortunately, removed one of his arms from around Roman and gestures to his right. 

In distance, Patton has Logan’s shirt held carefully in his fingers, playing with the buttons as he talked to Logan. Logan watched with nothing but love and appreciation in his eyes. Roman couldn’t help but sigh at the couple, he was part of the team that got them together after all. One of his best accomplishments, if he’d say so himself.. 

“It’s so sweet...disgusting.” Virgil continued. Switching from resting his cheek on Roman’s back to his chin, he looked up and said, “Now give me my good morning kiss.”

Roman chuckled and happily obliged. When they pulled apart, Virgil asks “I’m going to ask you a stupid question.”

“No question is stupid, love, ask away.”

“Are you okay?” “I stand corrected.” Virgil elbowed Roman in the side, both happy for their spider-strength for the opposite reasons. 

“I mean it, Ro. I know you hate being asked that question, especially today, but I rather you get annoyed with me than let something happen like last time. So I’ll ask again, are you okay?”

“I am.”

Virgil raises an eyebrow “Am what?”

“Fine.” “I asked you if you were okay”

“Same difference.”

“Big difference, people only say they’re fine when they don’t want to admit they aren’t okay.”

Roman just looked away, having nothing to really say, plus he didn’t want to argue. Virgil sighed and hugged him again. Roman doesn’t push away, the pressure behind his eyes getting more and more unbearable. His emotions were already becoming too much for him to handle. He hugged back, relishing in the warmth of another person. It was stupid, in his mind, since Virgil was just hugging him moments ago. 

With a sigh, Roman pulled back. He brushed his knuckles gently against Virgil’s cheek and whispered “I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay because I’m sorry too,” Virgil said softly.

“You have nothing to be sorry for.”

Virgil couldn’t help but smile at that. “You know what? You’re right. I don’t. And with that, I’m going to spend this whole day cheering you up.”

“Virge…You don’t have to. Really! There’s no reason to-“

Virgil suddenly poked Roman chest, silencing the boy. “Do you remember the day that marked the anniversary of my grandpa’s death?”

“Of course I do, you were so upset. You didn’t even want to leave your room”

“Yeah, and you know what you did? You broke into my room, like some lunatic by the way, wrapped me up like a burrito-“

“It’s called a blanket burrito for a reason.”

“Don’t interrupt me. You wrapped me up, put on all my favorite movies that I wasn’t even aware you remembered and fed me snacks as we cuddled. Not even Logan had thought of doing that, he would just let me lie under my blankets while he just sat in the room.” Virgil paused to smirk before continuing  “And I was never more grateful for you than at that moment.”

Roman’s face began to heat up. He couldn’t help it. No matter how big or small the compliment that Virgil would give him, he would turn into a blushing schoolgirl, ready to throw himself at Virgil and pepper him with kisses. 

He opted to just hug Virgil again, a silent thank you. They were in public after all. They had some class.

Virgil embraced him for a few moments before the warning bell went off. “Listen, I’m going to make sure today is not going to be total shit for you.”

Roman chuckled in response, “Thanks, stormcloud.” Roman took a step to walk to his class but stopped when Virgil firmly grabbed his hand, “Huh?”

“What? I can’t hold my boyfriend’s hand as we walk to class?”

Roman chuckled, if there was one thing he knew about Virgil is that despite his boyfriend’s wariness of physical affection, Virgil always saw things through. Roman gently squeezed Virgil’s hand, absorbing the love that came from that simple gesture. Logan told him a few months ago about Love Languages and how physical touch was definitely his. It was a nice bonding moment for him and Logan, and it made Virgil really happy. Roman was rewarded handsomely for it.

Compared to every other year since his dad died, this was actually a pretty good day. Virgil would bring him to every class, even the ones were Virgil’s classes were nowhere near. Virgil had to keep reassuring Roman that it was fine, “I will just use my invisibility and sneak in. It will be funny to see how confused my teachers will be.” It made Roman genuinely laugh, something seemingly unachievable on this day.

The classes he did share with Virgil were the best. Virgil left his non-writing hand resting on Roman’s shoulder, giving him a gentle squeeze whenever he felt Roman quiver, shake or tense up. Which was often since their teacher would not stop shooting Roman sympathetic looks, even after Virgil glared at her. Other classes that Virgil wasn’t in, Virgil would wrap his hoodie around Roman before he headed off to his next class. People would focus on this action and how cute it was that Roman would forget, even for a few minutes.

Around lunch, Roman’s mood changed from melancholy to calm, relatively speaking. He wasn’t walking with his head down, and even partaking. The numb and somewhat painful feeling in his chest was still present, but it was no longer the black pit sucking his emotions into it like usual.

Already seated at the lunch table were Logan and Patton, whispering and smiling at one another. Before Roman could announce his presence to the couple, Virgil tugged him back. He nearly made Roman fall backward in the process, but they both knew it wasn’t intentional. They always forgot how strong their spidey strength actually was.

“Sorry!” Virgil said instinctively though he did start laughing as Roman caught himself.

“What was that for?” Roman asked once he regained his balance.

“I needed to tell you before I forget, I asked Thomas if we could borrow his living room for a movie night and he said yes. Ask your mom if you can stay over.”

Roman smiled, “That sounds great”

Virgil smiled back as the two sat in their normal seats. As soon as the two entered Patton’s vision, his eyes light and he pushed a plate covered in tin foil towards the couple. It wasn’t anything uncommon, Patton using any excuse to make people food, from “Virgil had a headache” cookies to “You saved a bus filled with little kiddos and the city still won’t give you a key!” double chocolate cake. Roman removed the tin foil to reveal donuts. It shocked Roman, he had a bit of an expectation that Patton would make one of Roman’s favorite desserts; like he always did in years past.

Roman looked up at Patton puzzled and Patton reached over the table to squeeze Roman’s arm as it rested on the cafeteria table. “I know you don’t want to make this day all about you, so I made something we all consider a normal snack. Is it okay?”

Patton’s eyes read desperate and Roman, half because he wanted to be a good best friend and half because he did not want Patton to use his Empath powers, smiled, and nodded.

“This is perfect, Pat.”

 Patton pulled back so he could properly muffle his squeal of delight since they were still in school and he did not want to get into trouble for “starting a disturbance.”

Logan whispered to Patton “You told me it was because you did not have enough time to make Roman his favorite cake.”

“...I can have multiple reasons” Patton whispered back, glad that Roman and Virgil were too busy bickering about the best Avenger to listen in. 

Everyone ate their lunches and donuts, just enjoying the time they had together. Logan commented on how he heard that Roman and Virgil would not join them on patrol and he hoped that they “don’t burn down Thomas’ apartment”. That earned him a look from Roman, a “Logie!’ from Patton and a kick in the shin from Virgil all at the same time.

“It was a simple precaution!” Logan shouted, only to be told to quiet down by the cafeteria monitor.

It would later become a memory they would always look back on, Virgil even including it into his best man speech at Logan and Patton’s wedding, much to Logan’s dismay.

~

Once lunch was over, Roman snuck into the bathroom and sent off a text to his mom asking if it was possible if he could stay over at Virgil’s, adding that if she needed him to come home then it would be fine. He didn’t want to be selfish. 

Roman figured he would get his reply by the end of the day since he knew his mom would be really busy at work and he wasn’t exactly sure when his mom had her lunch break. He put his phone in his pocket only to scare himself when his notification sound went off in the silent password. He pulled it out and his phone and had a new text from his mom.

Amá: Of course you can, Your sister is watching the twins today, go have fun. It’s what Papí would want. 

Roman smiled, a single tear fell down his face. His mom was the best.

~

Roman’s afternoon classes came and went, nothing exciting or saddening happened of note. Though it wouldn’t have mattered, the prospect of cuddles and Disney movies filled him with so much excitement and joy. 

As faith would have it, he had no play practice since their show season had just ended and Mr. Bell always gave them a week off so he could tie up any last loose ends and decide the dates for the next auditions. This gave him an extra two hours to spend with his boyfriend, perfect!

Roman ran up to Virgil’s locker and bounced on his toes as his boyfriend got his stuff together so they could head off. Virgil smirked and tilted his head to Roman, “You seem excited.”

Roman smiled and nods “I’m really excited for tonight”

“Oh?” Virgil teased “What’s happening tonight? I can’t remember anything important”

Roman lightly punched him in the arm “You’re so mean, remind me why I love you again?” “It was your choice to get into this relationship, Princey, don’t forget that” Virgil waved his hand as he spoke and Roman, to Virgil’s surprise, quickly snatched Virgil’s hand.

Roman smirked back “I am very aware, and I am so happy to have you.” He then kissed Virgil’s knuckles.

Virgil cursed his cheeks for the blush that always came when Roman did something romantic. He pulled his hand back and nervously giggled “Oh shush, let’s get going already.” 

Man, did he love that boy.

~

After swinging over to Thomas’ apartment with Patton and Logan, Roman and Virgil quickly went to work on their pillow fort as the two other spider children spoke to their spider dad about the details of the patrol. 

Once everything was set up, Thomas said “Great. Patton, you and Logan get my snack bag and go to the bodega on the corner, there is money in the bag so don’t worry about using your own money. Meet me on the roof in half an hour.” 

Patton and Logan nodded and left to get their favorite snacks. 

Thomas turned to Roman “Hey, Ro? Before you guys start, could you come with me to the roof?”

Roman was confused but agreed. He was a bit nervous, he felt like a child about to get yelled at and tried to think of what he could have done wrong recently.

Once they got to the roof, Roman asked, “If this about keeping your apartment clean, I promise Virgil and I will not burn it down. Logan already gave us the rundown.” 

Thomas put his hand on Roman’s shoulder and softly smiled “I can feel you stressing out, even without Patton’s power. Don’t worry, I trust you. I just wanted to tell you something. Sit with me” Thomas patted Roman’s head when Roman released a sigh of relief. 

The two sat on the edge of the roof, Thomas in his Rainbow Weaver costume with the mask on and Roman in his civilian clothes. 

Thomas gazed over the city before saying “I know you are probably expecting me to give you a speech about grief and how to handle it, but I hated those speeches at your age when I got them because of my Aunt Patty. In fact, you remind me a lot of myself when I was younger, and I’m not just talking about being a fellow theatre geek. I never wanted to think about when she died and I would throw myself into helping people, with or without the suit. One thing led to another and I ended up beaten and bloodied in an alley on the anniversary of her death. When Talyn and Joan found me, I swear my Aunt Patty possessed them to yell at me for it. I thought Talyn might kill me themself.”

Roman laughed “I can see them doing that.”

Thomas chuckled and nodded “Oh yes. But what they and Joan did instead was patching me up and we had a FRIENDS marathon, ‘the police will handle crime for now’ Joan said. I broke down after three episodes because I love my friends so much. So before I start crying again at the memories, I just wanted to tell you that your friends--including Joan, Talyn, and I--are always here for you. Don’t make the same mistake I did and forget” Roman threw himself at Thomas for a hug “Never again, I promise.”

Thomas hugged back “Thanks, kid. Now go have fun.”

~

Virgil looked up from his phone when he heard footsteps coming towards him “What did Thomas want? Hey, are you okay?” Virgil pops out from under the fort and cups Roman’s face to wipe the tears away.

Roman smiles “I’m fine, really. I’m just...thank you, for putting up with me”

Virgil kisses him “It’s not putting up with you, it’s loving you. Ready to start Tangled” “Of course my love”

~

Tag list (Ask if you want to be added or removed):

@corkeecoderyt @per-seph-o-nee @3milystuff @asymmetricalgarbage8888 @fairytailtwists @sanders-sides-rebloger @mycatshuman @sanderssidesfluffyangst @unikornavenger @0callmevirge0 @gloomingwitch @roxiefox24 @ijustreallylovesanderssides @unisaurioamorfo @nadja-chamack16 @angelic-cali 

[perseusjackson-jasongrace]

Jercy teacher au? Maybe where their students r tryna get them together but they've been married for years or smthng. I'll take any jercy content tbh aha

AHHHH Darling Anon you made my day with this. Here’s a lil drabble that i hope fulfills your prompt-dreams!

If you want more you just gotta let me know. I am here to serve you my tumblr babies!

Masterlist

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

Percy had woken up this morning with the express intent of getting to the university early and starting on the increasing pile of admin he had yet to attend to. What had actually happened was a ripped pants, a spilled coffee, endless traffic, and a department meeting that resulted in him being an escort for the marine field trip. Today was the definition of Murphy’s Law.

“Good afternoon Doc,”

“Afternoon Katie,”

“Hey Doc,”

“Hello Tyson, Ella,”

Students filed into the lecture venue waving or grunting a hello as they passed him. He tried to keep a smile through the greetings, but the weight of the day hung heavy in his mind. Once most people had settled in he clapped his hands and hopped onto the desk, as he did every lecture.

“Listen up seaweed-brains,” The class groaned at the familiar nickname eliciting a grin from Percy, “I will never understand why you guys don’t find that hilarious. You are marine biologists after-all.”

“It’s unbecoming Doc, and cheesy,” A voice from the middle piped up.

“Hazel Levesque how dare you tell me my favourite nickname is unbecoming,” He mocked hurt, holding a hand to his chest.

The class laughed at that and Percy winked playfully at the small, fierce student. She rolled her eyes but smiled at her professor.

“Alright I got some news which is bad for me and good for you,” They settled down, staring intently at him, “The field trip to the marine conservation center was approved and I have to be the one looking after you lot,” It was his turn to groan.

A series of whoops and excited chatter broke out around the class. It had been forever since they were allowed to visit the conservation center. The university’s budget had been tight for some years, so they had only managed to go once in the four-year degree even though they were supposed to go every year. Percy couldn’t help but smile as he watched his class take in the news, their faces glowing with excitement. He checked his watch, giving them a few minutes to discuss before interrupting them to finally start the lecture.

“Alright you sorry sack of sponges, let’s get to it!”

And with a murmured chortle through the class they started the lecture.

“So most shallow coral reefs have a symbiotic relationship with a photosynthetic algae that-“

A knock on the lecture room door cut off his sentence. Percy frowned, looking over, and then tried very hard to stop the blush creeping up his neck. Standing in the doorway a feint smile on his face was Dr. Jason Grace.

“Sorry to interrupt the lecture Professor but can I have a word,”

The class broke out into hushed whispers, exchanging suspicious glances and gleeful smiles.

“Of course Dr. Grace,” He turned to his students, “Excuse me everyone.”

“Go right ahead Prof, we don’t mind at all,” A curly-haired Latino with a mischievous grin replied.

“Gee thanks Leo, I’m grateful,”

The class snickered and Percy debated giving them all a pop quiz just for it but Jason was waiting, patiently.

He stepped out of the room, easing the door shut behind him.

“Hello Doctor,” He said, hoping the blush would stay far away.

The man looked as good as ever; dark jeans, and a sky-blue shirt with the beautiful addition of the sleeves rolled up his forearms. It was hard not to stare without drooling.

“How many times do I have to ask you to call me Jason?” The blonde teased.

“Force of habit,” He winced apologetically.

“I’m sorry I had to pull you out of class, but I don’t have any free time and I wanted to know what I should be bringing on the field trip this Friday?”

Percy’s head shot up, eyes clashing with pools of blue, “You’re the other chaperone on the trip?”

“Yea, they asked me to because I’m one of the only faculty members available this Friday. Everyone in the medical department is going to some charity ball for the Half-Blood Hospital but I had plans I couldn’t get out of so I didn’t accept the invite, and now those plans are cancelled and I’m pretty much free all weekend,” He rambled, eyes darting every which way.

Percy couldn’t help the giggle that escaped him and then with a mortified look he tried to cover it up with a cough. “Well I hope you plan something fun for the weekend now that it’s open,” He smiled.

Jason blushed, electric eyes wide, “Sorry, I tend to go on if no-one stops me.”

“I don’t know if anyone can, it’s kind of adorable.”

That made the blonde blush harder, skin turning as red as a rose fish, “So about the fieldtrip…” He mumbled.

“Right, right yes,” Percy nodded, eyes glazing as he tried to remember what they usually need, “Dress casually, because we often end up soaking wet; someone always topples into a fish tank. Pack water and snacks because for some reason you get really hungry while staring at fish?” He laughed at that. “Oh and a little emergency kit but I’m sure I didn’t have to tell you that Mister Neurologist.”

“I figured the emergency kit was a must since I’m technically first aid on this trip,” His mouth twitched in amusement.

“Guess we’re in good hands then,” He winked.

Jason shrugged, a slow smile tugging at his lips, “I guess you are.”

Percy’s eyes widened, heat beating so loud it was a wonder how his students behind the door couldn’t hear it. He stared, failing to process anything as the deep rolling voice of the man before him played on a loop in his brain.

A throat cleared, ripping Percy out of his hazy thoughts.

“Well thank you for the information. Guess I’ll see you on Friday,”

“Yea, I guess you will.” He nodded, still coming back to the present.

“Bye Percy,”

“Bye Doctor– uh Jason, bye.”

A fading chuckle followed a dazzled Percy back into the lecture room where the rowdy chatter of his students ceased, giving away to dead silence.

“So Doc, how’s Professor Grace?” Someone piped up gleefully.

That snapped Percy right into reality, head finally escaping the intoxicating spell that the neurologist always seemed to put him under.

“Dr Grace is fine Will,” He narrowed his eyes, “Now, where were we?”

“I think we were just about to discuss when you and the doc were gonna get together?”

Percy’s entire body set itself on fire. “Wha- what- what are you talking about?”

“Aw come on Prof, it’s obvious you two have been pining over each other for years. I feel like as your favourite students it would be a great graduation gift to finally see you guys together.”

“Yea Prof, he’s been single for two years now. Mrs McLean is happily married to Mrs Chase.”

“Guys you know I think you’re the best, but we are not discussing my love life right now especially,” He glared at them, “When it’s about a colleague of mine.”

“Aw come on Prof this is much more exciting than the benefits between coral reefs and algae,” Frank pleaded.

“Right but it’s not going to help you get your degree and besides we have to get this done before the trip on Friday so hush up and let me carry on.”

“Wait before you start Doc, who’s the other chaperone?” Leo asked. A round of nods and agreeing murmurs carried through the class.

Percy looked to the ceiling in exasperation, knowing the news would guarantee the class being a lost cause. He looked at those curious faces, who have been under his teaching and guidance for three years, and sighed, “It’s Dr Grace.”

There was a collective gasp around the room before all twenty of them turned to each other and started whispering furiously among themselves.

“Alright, alright, whatever is happening make it stop. We have things to do.”

They all turned back to him, sharp grins on their faces.

“How does Dr Grace feel about swimming with sharks” Katie asked, eyes wide in feigned innocence.

“Absolutely not Miss Gardner. No way.” He gave them a stern look.

Their grins just got wider.

Percy had a feeling he would be diving into a shark tank on a rescue mission come Friday. With a sigh, and a smile he tried hard to hide he turned back to the lecture, salvaging the last few minutes with his favourite, most meddlesome students.

[fablesrose]

Of Kings and Shadows XXVI

Description: Y/n, a girl who seems to have found her calling. Being a SHIELD agent is like a dream come true. With a friendship starting to form with the Avengers, she’s the Queen of the world! What could go wrong?

Pairings: Avengers x reader, Loki x reader (eventually)

Notes: On Wattpad –> Here

Series Masterlist

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Three days.

With the help of Loki and regularly scheduled meals (even if they were served through a straw since I couldn't use my hands) helped reset my internal clock to be able to keep track of the time.

It's been three days since I gave my report, part of it anyway, and no one has come to visit me. No one has talked to me. Loki hasn't come down to one of my therapy sessions. No one has even turned on the radio for me to listen to.

Yesterday they let me off of my restraining stand. It was an awkward procedure, with the restraints releasing, waiting for me--Noxy to step off of it, and then they froze the jumpsuit while they pulled the contraption through the floor and out of the way. Noxy could literally do whatever she wanted, but instead, she laid on her back, spread eagle and stared at the ceiling. She didn't hardly move.

Since that was boring as hell, I tried to occupy myself with no hope of ever getting human (sort of) contact again since I admitted to killing a fellow agent who I called my friend.

So, to pass the time I have made three card houses, each one more complex than the last, played tic tac toe with myself (spoiler: I only won once), touched up on my juggling skills, made out with my favorite celebrity more than a few times, got into an argument about shopping carts, and thought about impossible things, impossible places, and impossible  dreams.

That was until the outer door opened. I couldn't think of a time that the door had opened. Loki stayed outside of the entire enclosure, maybe on a whole different floor. Food and water were delivered electronically with no need for a door.

But here we were, someone with cotton-light footsteps walked around the glass so much that I couldn't tell where they were until they spoke from the opposite position of the entrance.

"Hey Y/n," Natasha spoke softly, the way she only spoke with the team, on a good day. "I know you can't talk back to me, but I figured I could talk to you."

My first visitor. It felt nice.

"I know Lokes hasn't been down in a few days, but just hang in there. He'll come around. He always has." She gave an at ease chuckle, "You know, none of us would have believed it, but he's really a part of the team. He looked and sounded so stiff the other day, I haven't seen him like that in forever, honestly."

I wonder if being in a coma was like this. Being able to hear them, but not answer. I hated it.

"We've really added to the team, I don't know if Loki told you. They're all going to love you... If Wanda would stop being a little butt-sore." She left a pause to think, "Anyway, I just wanted to say that we miss you. I miss you."

I wouldn't have been able to tell if she had left or not except for the fact that my mouth opened and a voice not quite mine came out, "You know, I could tell you what she's saying."

A feeling of dread washed over me. This was not going to be good.

"She hates you. She hates all of you. You left her to rot in a cell for seven years, only to bring her back to rot in a different cell." Noxy still lied on the ground, not looking at Natasha, so neither could I see her reaction. "You left her all alone in a cell that gives her nightmares. One that just drags her back into a time where I wasn't there. Not yet,  but oh how she wished for a sweet release for the pain." Her laugh was warm and inviting, but it was so bitter I could nearly taste it and gag, "And then you just waltz in here and say you replaced her. The audacity! How many people did it take to fill up the hole she left behind? Three? Four? Zero? Maybe there wasn't a hole at all." Noxy rolled onto her stomach, feet crossed in the air, and her chin resting on her hands. Her eyes were still fixated on the white ceiling, puposefully making it so I couldn't see, "So yeah, she absolutely loathes you."

I was devastated at what she said to her. There was nothing I could do to stop it.

To Natasha's credit, it didn't even sound like she flinched, or even blinked knowing her. She just said simply, "I don't believe you."

Noxy paused from waving her crossed ankles before answering, "You're right. Y/n didn't say those things, you wanna know why?" This time she looked at Natasha's stone-cold face, "Because she isn't saying anything at all. Now you tell me, " Noxy blinked slowly, pleasantly, "which is worse?"

Natasha didn't reply, but I did catch the faint movement of a swallow.

Noxy began a little sing-song: "She's gone! Disappeared! Never to return! The little girl you knew has left forever."

Natasha shook her head, "That's not true, we spoke to her just the other day."

Noxy raised an eyebrow, "Are you sure?" She raised her voice mockingly which added a bit of grain, "Oh, I'm Y/n and I love my friends! Let's have a sob-fest that this happened to me and I'll tell you everything you need to know about my King."

Blinking slowly, Nat turned on her heel and mumbled, "Yeah, this isn't working."

"Buh-bye!"

I sighed to myself. Noxy was going to ruin everything. First I pushed away Loki. Now Natasha isn't going to be on my side. One by one they were just going to leave me here to die. Not that I expected anything less in the months before, but it still hurt. What little was left of my hopes and dreams took a nose-dive. I wasn't sure if I could recover before I crashed and burned.

Who was I kidding? I'm pretty sure I already have.

A couple hours went by with me wallowing in self-pity. I couldn't even find it in myself to hum a song. No lyrics came to mind. So I sat. I stared at whatever Noxy stared at. It was all the same, white walls and bright lights.

That is, until something felt a bit different.

Congratulations Wanda, you've graduated to burlap!

Wanda mumbled sarcastically, Thanks, Y/n. Natasha would like to speak to you.

Oh, she already did and didn't receive a very kind response. Not from me of course, but...

Fine, Natasha would like you to speak to her.  

I laughed shallowly, Alright, and how are we going to do that?

Wanda didn't answer me, instead a voice that I heard a few hours before spoke.

Hey... How're you holding up?

A sense of calm came over me, knowing that she could talk to me.  I could still feel the roughness of Wanda's magic holding us together, but after the last few days, any company at all was worth it.

As well as you could expect I guess.

She hummed at me softly, It sounds like you're doing better than any of us would in your shoes.

You flatter me.

I gotta butter you up some how don't I?

I laughed a real laugh. My word it's been a while. I am a little concerned about what Natasha.

That's for me to know.

And for me to find out?

No.

I chuckled one more time, Alright Natasha, what did you really want to talk about?

She feigned offense, What, I can't just talk to my friend?

I've known you long enough that everything you do has a purpose.

She paused, Well maybe my purpose is to check up on my friend who's voice I never thought I would hear again. And to make sure that she knows that we have her back, and if Loki doesn't get down here to keep you company I'll kick his ass myself.

Thanks Natasha, but I don't blame him. Not fully anyway.

Why would you ever think that?

I would have taken a deep breath. I wasn't sure if I was ready to say it out loud. I wasn't sure if I was ready to make it real. But the mind makes thoughts more fluid, so it's harder to quickly change an answer to a simple 'no reason.'

I chose to kill someone.

So have we all.

Not a friend. Loki, he killed so many, but he didn't know any of them. You and Clint were assassins, but did you ever kill someone you were friends with?

She didn't answer. I didn't know whether it was a silent confession of guilt, or a concession of my argument.

Neither of us spoke for a while, choosing to let the conversation stew for a while.

Eventually she must have grown tired of the quiet and decided to end the conversation, So, Nick says that the next report will be tomorrow.

Okay.

Uh... She trailed off, not sure what else to add, Take care.

You too.

I felt Wanda break the connection between us and she left too, but not before sending a feeling.

One that I wasn't sure I still knew the name of.

Tag List: [Open] @snarky--starky @kitkatd7 @confetti-its-an-imagine-blog

[takemetoanotherworld]

I don’t want to be alone. pt5.

The boys were currently halfway through their 3rd movie, Avengers End Game, and it was nearing 1 am. Sometime during that movie, Harry had nodded off. The boys realized his commentary was fading, and theirs was taking over. Louis looked down, finally, realizing that the boy was fast asleep on his shoulder.

“Oh, Hazza...” Louis coos, kissing the boy’s hair.

“Lou, got anything to tell us?” Liam laughs, turning toward Louis quickly.

Niall coughs sarcastically, watching Louis’ eyes light up. Louis laughs silently, not wanting to wake Harry up. 

“Give me a moment, would you help me make him a bit more comfortable?” Louis pouts, noticing how Harry’s posture must be uncomfortable.

Liam stands up, pausing the movie. Louis keeps Harry’s head on his shoulder, wrapping his arms around his waist. Liam pulls Harry’s legs to the side, so Louis is, essentially, cradling the curly boy. Louis settles Harry’s other hand in the latters lap, his left hand holding on to the front of Louis’ jumper. Harry sighs in content, snuggling closer to Louis. 

“I’m really falling for him...” Louis whispers, looking at Liam.

“We know. You’re terrible at keeping things secret.” Niall laughs, being shushed by a protective Lou.

“Getting jealous of me? C’mon, Lou. Can’t be more obvious.” Liam adds, shaking his head adoringly at the sight of Louis and Harry. 

“I’m sorry, alright? I just, god... look at him! He’s everything I want.” Lou coos, nudging his nose into Harry’s curls. 

“Are you going to tell him?” Liam asks, puppy eyes in full effect.

“I-I don’t know yet. I like this,” He says quietly, motioning to Harry. “I like being able to hold him. I liked seeing him at the game.”

“Lou, can I say something?” Niall asks, proceeding when Louis nodded. “Harry really likes you. Don’t tell him I told you, but I just want you guys to be happy.” 

Louis smiles widely, holding Harry a bit closer. 

“Then maybe I’ll just continue with this. More affection? Hanging out more outside of school and stuff.” Louis mumbles.

They all continue to talk, eventually un-pausing the movie and continuing to watch.

The credits started rolling, the time now 2:30 am, when Harry started to stir. Louis kisses his forehead as he starts to open his eyes.

“Hey, Hazza. Good nap?” Louis whispers, peppering kisses to the younger boy’s head. 

Harry nods sleepily, wiping at his eyes. Louis feels his heart pick up, all he wants to do is hold this boy forever.

“Hi you guys, sorry that I fell asleep.” Harry giggles, sitting up.

He looks down and notices he is settled in Louis’ lap. Harry immediately blushes, looking around and getting off of Louis. Louis furrows his eyebrows, cocking his head to the side.

“That’s okay. Do you guys want to sleep now?” Niall asks, glancing at the boys.

“I’m still buzzing from the game.” Louis admits, missing the heat of Harry.

“Me too, honestly.” Liam laughs. “Ni?”

“I’m awake, I usually don’t sleep much anyway. Haz?” Niall asks, getting comfy on the couch.

“I just napped so I feel okay...” Harry says, still not fully awake.

“Okay, I think we need energy drinks now!” Niall yells, standing up and scurrying to the kitchen.

He comes back, holding 4 monster energy. The boys all take sips, while Niall starts up the Xbox. Liam grabs the 2nd controller, and Louis and Harry just sit back.

“Haz?” Louis chips, reaching out to Harry.

“I don’t know, Lou. Didn’t I make your arms fall asleep?” Harry pouts, feeling a tad bit insecure for whatever reason.

“Nope, c’mere love.” Lou says, arms waiting for Harry.

Harry scoots over, letting Louis put his arm around his shoulders.

“Why you acting so shy all of the sudden, babe?” Louis coos, looking down at Harry.

Harry blushes, shaking his head.

“I know what you’re thinking. I feel the same, too. We don’t have to do anything yet, my love.” Louis whispers to Harry, kissing Harry’s cheek.  

Harry tears up, his lip wobbling.

“Oh, Haz. No tears, what’s got you cryin’?” Louis asks, laying his hand on Harry’s face. 

Louis catches a few tears on the pad of his thumb, pulling Harry in closer. Harry sniffles, straddling Louis’ lap. Louis wraps his arms around Harry’s waist, while Harry latches to Louis’ shoulders. 

“We’ll be back in a minute, lads. Just need to have a chat.” Louis announces, the 2 boys playing Fifa only grunting in response, not paying any attention to the others.

Louis carries Harry into the guest room, sitting down on the bed in the corner of the room. Louis shushes the sniffling boy, murmuring to him softly. Louis presses kisses to Harry’s neck, rubbing his lower back.

“Please don’t leave, Lou.” Harry finally speaks up, burrowing into Louis’ neck. 

“Hazza, why would I? You’re all I want.” Louis admits, kissing Harry’s cheek again.

“Because I’m me, everyone leaves me. I don’t want to be alone again.” Harry whimpers.

“Look at me, Haz.” Louis whispers, holding onto Harry’s chin. “I’m not going anywhere. Liam and Niall won’t, either. I promise things are different now.”

Harry nods, biting his bottom lip to stop it’s quivering.

“Do you believe me?” Louis asks, staring at him.

“Yes.” Harry mumbles, burrowing into Louis again. 

Louis wraps his arms around Harry, pressing his lips to Harry’s head.

“I’ve got you.” Louis whispers, standing up with Harry in his arms.

They walk back out to the living room, Liam looking up briefly and laughing slightly, gaining Niall’s attention. Niall cheers quietly, going back to Fifa.

“Can I hug you guys?” Harry mumbles, standing over Liam.

Liam nods, getting up and hugging Harry. Niall follows, ruffling his curls.

“Alright, give me my curly back.” Louis jokes, grabbing at Harry’s waist.

Harry lays his head in Louis’ lap, grabbing at Louis’ left arm. He trails his hand down, intertwining their fingers.

“Cutie.” Louis coos, running his fingers through Harry’s hair. 

Harry giggles, playing with Louis’ fingers. The boys play Fifa for a few hours.

“Guys... I’m tired...” Harry whines, looking at his phone.

5:35 am.

“Go to sleep, then.” Liam laughs, looking at the ceiling.

“Can I borrow you?” Harry giggles, slumping against Louis’ side.

“Of course, Haz.” Louis says, nuzzling Harry’s neck.

Harry sits in Louis’ lap, straddling his hips. Louis wraps his arms around Harry’s waist, pulling Harry’s legs to bring Harry closer to him. Harry’s legs meet behind Louis back, and Louis playfully taps Harry’s bum. Harry giggles, looking at Louis.

“You’re beautiful.” Louis says, kissing Harry’s nose.

Harry mumbles a thank you, moving impossibly closer to Louis. Harry yawns, laying his head on Louis’ shoulder.

“Goodnight, Hazza.” Louis hums, rubbing the younger’s back soothingly. 

------ 4 weeks skipped, Louis and Harry remain unofficial. At their sleepovers, they are practically one body since they tangle themselves together at any opportunity. At school, nothing really changed, except they hug at any opportunity to do so. At the footie matches, Harry, Niall, and Liam always show up to support. The winter is getting colder, and 2nd term is coming to a close. Going back into the story, it’s the last game of the season, Friday.------

“Hazza, get your ass over here!” Liam yells, watching as Harry makes his way to their lunch table.

“Hey, love.” Louis smiles, pushing his phone into his pocket.

Harry takes a seat next to Liam, directly across from Lou. The boys all eat their lunch, chatting casually about anything. Niall gets up, saying he has to go see a teacher for help. The boys wave as he leaves, resuming their conversation.

“All Varsity Footie Athletes to Coach Carr’s room immediately, thank you.”

Louis groans, standing up quickly.

“See you in 6th hour, bye you two.” Louis says, walking over to kiss Harry’s forehead before leaving.

“Li, you got the hoodie?” Harry giggles, smiling widely as Liam pulls open his backpack.

“Coach Carr was so chill, he was all like, ‘oh, pranking Louis? I’m in.’ And said he’d make a cover story.” Liam laughs, closing his backpack. “Lou will be back in a minute, seeing as he’s not going to be receiving his hoodie yet.”

Sure enough, Louis walks back to their table, looking confused.

“Carr said mine didn’t come in, yet the rest of the teams did? I call bullshit.” He huffs, gears turning in his head.

“Awh, sorry Lou. Didn’t he say you were getting a different one because you’re captain?” Harry asked, smiling innocently.

“Yeah, must be shipping or something.” Louis mumbles.

---footie match time---

Louis looks around wildly, searching for Harry and Liam. 

You see, the last game means that the team gets to pick up to 3 people to come to the field and watch from the sidelines, and obviously Louis picked his best friends. The game was set to start in 5 minutes, and only Niall was sitting on the bench.

“Ni, any updates?” Louis asks nervously, shaking his legs out a little bit.

Niall just shakes his head, smiling sadly at Louis. Lou just nods, looking to the field. 

“Okay, Haz. You ready?” Liam says, wiggling his eyebrows.

Harry nods, adjusting Louis’ hoodie and looking at his shoes. Coach Carr let the boys take Louis’ hoodie, so that Harry could sport “Tomlinson 17″ on Louis’ final game, and his vans were tie-dyed custom, to match Lou’s blue jersey.

Harry walks out on to the field, giggling madly when Louis spots him. Louis’ mouth hangs open, his eyebrows furrowing at the sight of Harry in his hoodie. Harry does a spin, showing the older boy the hoodie fully, and then he ran up to him. 

“Gotta support my favorite footie player...” Harry giggles, hugging Louis tightly. “Like my shoes?”

Louis looks down, seeing the blue vans with 17 printed on them in black. He turns the younger around, staring at his last name on Harry’s back.

“You’re too much, Har-”

The whistle blows, and Harry sprints to the bench where Liam and Niall are practically bursting from the cute scene.

“He’s absolutely fucking flustered!” Niall joked.

“It’s about time you see it, Haz.” Liam said, nudging Har’s shoulder with his.

Harry laughs, feeling excited that he’s seeing a little more into Louis.

The game started, and Louis’ team made their usual round about the field, Louis practically falling over at the sight of Harry again.

---

“GO LOU GO! RIGHT HERE COME ON, RIGHT NOW!” Harry yells, standing with the other boys.

“YES!!!! YES LOU!” Niall screams, the final point being played by Louis. 

“That’s it! COL’s 4th season UNDEFEATED!” The announcer says, leading to the entire stadium to cheer loudly. 

The boys stand up and sprint at Louis, cheering loudly. Louis smiles widely, holding the trophy up. His team picks him up, screaming. Harry stares up at him, biting his bottom lip while smiling. 

“That was fucking amazing, Louis!” Niall grins, slapping Lou on the shoulder.

“Thanks, mate. I have the best cheerleaders.” Lou jokes, eyes lingering on Harry’s face for a moment.

“So... are you up for a sleepover?” Liam asked, sticking his tongue out slightly.

Harry pouts at Louis, doing his best puppy dog eyes. Louis laughs, something flashing in his eyes.

“Yeah, of course. I need to stop and grab some stuff, though.” Louis says.

At this point, Harry reaches out for a hug, but Louis walks out of reach. Harry pouts.

“Nope, we asked your mum to drop it off at mine before she came to watch the match.” Niall interrupts, smiling again.

The boys all go to say hi to Louis’ mum, chatting for a few minutes and then taking pictures of the Tomlinson’s. Louis’ mum kisses all over is face, leaving Louis embarrassed. Harry keeps trying to talk to Louis, but Louis seems to avoid Harry’s words.

“Let’s go, boys. Niall, you’re with me?” Louis asks, pulling his car keys out of his bag.

“I’ll go with Liam...” Harry says, looking to see if Louis reacts at all.

He doesn’t, leaving Harry confused. He’s probably just thinking too much about it.

“You two can go on in, me and Haz are gonna grab food. Lou you can shower in my bathroom, nasty boy.” Liam teases, getting into his car.

Harry follows, huffing slightly. Liam looks over, turning his car on.

“What’s the matter, Haz?” Liam asks, pulling out of the parking lot.

“He seemed like, excited when I got there, right? And then I tried to hug him and he walked away. And he’s ignoring me?” Harry says, frustration in his voice.

Harry groans, pulling Louis’ hoodie off. He crosses his arms across his chest, throwing his head back.

“Okay, so I noticed that too. But he’s probably exhausted, right? He just played the best he has this entire season, I mean, he’s probably close to falling asleep standing up.” Liam explains, slowing down as he turns the corner. 

Harry just groans, pulling his phone out. He and Liam sing loudly along to the radio, pulling in to order food.

---

“We’re here fuckers!” Harry yells, setting the food on the floor in the living room.

Niall runs into the room, diving at the food. Harry laughs, eating his fries. He sets Louis’ hoodie on the back of the couch. Liam frowns slightly, seeing past Harry’s facade.

Harry was upset, he wanted to do something special for Louis, and Louis seemed excited up until after the game when he had to see Harry again. For whatever reason.

“Haz, it’ll be fine. Just try to keep things normal, he’ll probably feel better after his shower, yeah?” Liam whispers. 

They all eat, watching whatever programme was on the tv. Louis walks out around 15 minutes later, only wearing his adidas trackies. 

“Hey Louis, food?” Niall gestures to the food waiting for the athlete. Niall looks up at Harry, noticing how his face had dropped when Louis walked in. “Hazza, c’mere.” 

Harry crawls over to Niall, throwing his arms around the blonde. Niall rubs his back, feeling bad. Harry starts to feel a bit better, not sure why Louis ignoring him a couple of times was bothering him so much.

Niall tussles Harry’s curls, smiling at the younger lad when they pulled away. Harry smiled in return.

“What’s wrong, Harry?” Louis mumbles, not looking up from his food.

“Cold...” Harry lies, though it’s not really a lie if he is cold, is it?

“Where’s my hoodie?” Louis asks, glancing around the room.

“Don’t wanna wear it.” Harry says, cuddling into Niall’s side.

Louis makes a face at that, looking at Harry for the first time since he got to Liam’s. Liam just shakes his head when Louis tries to say something, leading to Louis slumping back against the couch.

“Can we start a movie?” Harry whispers, rubbing his eyes.

“Yeah, anyone want drinks? Ni, start the movie?” Liam asks. 

Liam leaves to grab drinks, and the other boys start to get cozy on the couch. Harry settles into the curve of the couch, where Louis would usually lay with him. Louis tries to sit near Harry, but the latter scoots closer to Niall. 

Louis grunts, pulling out his phone. He texts Liam.

What did I do?

Bro, you ignored him after the game. He was all excited to show up wearing your hoodie and the custom shoes and shit, he thought you’d be all cute after the game with him, I guess.

I dont know whats up today with me, Li. But right now he won’t even sit near me

It’s not his fault. he just wanted you to show something more, I guess?

What do you mean liam!!!

I cant just tell you, its not my business.

LIAM.

You already know what im talking about. you just need to show him you’re not just being friendly, catch my drift?

liam? are you serious?

read 8:52pm

“Hazza, come over here...” Louis trails off, opening his arms up.

“Can I stay over here with Niall?” Harry whimpers, curling his fist in Niall’s shirt.

Louis forces a smile, pulling his phone out again.

So Harry thinks I’m strictly friends with him, that I don’t have feelings for him?

I mean, you were kissing on him and cuddling him and calling him babe and baby and shit, and then after that first sleepover you treated him like you treat me and niall. just cuddles. he thinks youre friendzoning him.

Shit. He won’t get off of Niall...

Idk man. I’m coming up there.

“Harry! Your tea...” Liam laughs, handing Harry a mug. 

Harry sips at it, sitting up a little.

“Haz, can you scoot? Niall’s my cuddling buddy today, you got him at the game when you were cold!” Liam laughs, glancing at Louis.

Louis grins, feeling a pang of jealousy when Harry whines into Niall’s shirt, grabbing onto the fabric tighter and burying his face in Niall’s chest. 

“Not now, Li.”

Louis gets up, prying Harry’s hands from Niall’s tshirt. Harry yelps, wiggling frantically. 

“Haz, what’s all this? Come here.” Louis grumbles, sitting Harry next to him on the couch.

“No, I’m going to the loo.” Harry snaps, getting up as soon as he sat next to Louis.

Harry storms off, slamming the door closed. He slams his fists into the counter, angry at Louis.

Louis looks up shocked, completely confused by Harry.

“Like I said, mate. Stop treating him like a friend when he’s actively trying to get you to show him something.” Liam said, looking like this was completely obvious.

“I mean, honestly Louis, for that one day when you 2 got super close and we had that talk about him thinking we were going to leave, he was so happy and you treated him like you wanted him. And you do want him, right? So why are you pushing all that progress and the cheesy kisses on the cheek and petnames out like they were never there?” Niall adds, standing up. “Go get him. Tell him how you feel, this bullshit is making me mad. Acting like you see him as a friend and getting jealous when he cuddles with me because he needs comfort...”

Louis stands up, walking to the bathroom.

“Haz? Open up, we need to talk.” Louis mumbles, waiting to hear the lock click.

It does, 2 minutes later. Harry stands in the doorway, avoiding Louis’ eyes. Louis walks in, closing the door behind him. He picks up Harry, setting him on the edge of the counter and standing between his legs, placing his hands on Harry’s hips.

“Listen, I’m sorry that I ignored you after the game. I have a reason. I know that you think I only like you as a friend, but you’re totally wrong. I know I stopped being all over you after that one night, it’s just that I didn’t want to push it. All I want is you, I just want to make sure you’re ready, and don’t feel pressured at all. You’re the first thing on my mind every morning, I swear. But I know you were hurt in the past, and I don’t want to be the cause of any tears, my Hazza.” Louis whispers, thumbing over Harry’s cheekbones. “I want you, and everything you come with. I’m sorry for acting like a prick.” 

“Are you scared, too?” Harry asks, still looking down.

“I didn’t think you liked me that way, I couldn’t tell. Well, I think my hesitancy, after realizing how scared you were that I’d leave... I think it made me stay away from you in the way that I want to be with you.” Louis explains. 

Harry nods, sucking his bottom lip in.

“Can we leave our chat at this, for right now? Can we go cuddle?” Louis asks, pulling Harry in by his waist.

“Can I ask you something first?” Harry asks, earning a nod from Louis. “You do feel more than friends feelings, right?”

Louis’ eyes soften some more, and he leans in to kiss the corners of Harry’s mouth, desperately wanting to press their lips together but deciding it was best to wait. 

“Good answer?” Louis giggles, kissing Harry’s reddened cheeks. “You’re too cute, baby.”

The 2 walk out to the living room, sitting on the couch beside each other. Louis opens his arms, waiting for Harry to fall into them. Harry looks down shyly, fiddling with his fingers.

“Hey, no shyness Hazza...” Louis mumbles, grabbing Harry’s hands.

He brings them up to his lips, pressing kisses to his knuckles. Harry coughs a little, frowning. 

“Can I go get changed, Lou?” Harry pouts, earning a nod from Louis. 

“As long as you put my hoodie back on.”

Harry blushes, grabbing the hoodie on his way back to the bathroom. Harry changes, looking into the mirror. He’s been feeling a little under the weather since just before the game, ignoring it until now. He shuffles out to the living room, pulling the sleeves over his hands.

“Lou...” Harry whines, coughing a little more, sniffling slightly.

“Baby, come here.” Louis says, pulling on the younger’s hand. 

Harry settles into Louis’ naked chest, breathing unsteadily.

“Not feeling well? What’s wrong, sweets?” Louis fusses, pulling Harry onto his lap. 

Harry keeps his head pressed into Louis’ body, groaning quietly.

“Head hurts again, my nose is stuffy and throat hurts... I just don’t feel well.” Harry sniffles, holding onto Louis tightly.

“Liam, do you have honey?” Louis asks, rubbing Harry’s back.

Liam nods, running down the stairs. He comes back with a spoon and honey, handing it to Harry.

“It’s like a lolly, huh? C’mon, babe, it’ll help.” Louis encourages, Harry licking at the substance.

After Harry is done, he sets the spoon inside his empty mug, turning so he is facing Louis. He wraps his legs around Louis’ waist, feeling weak.

“Oh, I’m sorry Haz. Go to sleep, my love...” Louis whispers, kissing Harry’s forehead.

“Feel dizzy, I don’t wanna lay down.” Harry mumbles, pushing himself closer to the older boy.

“Here,” Louis guides Harry’s head to his shoulder, tightening his grip on the younger’s waist. “Go to sleep, baby. I’m sorry about today. You’re mine now, though. I’m not letting you go.”

“I don’t want you to let me go... Don’t leave me all alone.” Harry whispers, holding on to Louis tighter.

“I won’t, you’re not alone anymore. Not with me around.”

A/N

not how I wanted to end it, but I didn’t know how to tie it all up... hopefully it’s decent.

[madpanda75]

Andie, can I just get some cute fluff with Sonny please? I will love you forever.

Of course you can, lovey! I’m so sorry this is late, I hope you like this! ❤️ I had so much fun writing it. Anything where I can fit in the word “douche nozzle,” is a win for me! 

Part Two (NSFW)

“The Dance” Part One

Your glasses slid down the bridge of your nose while you furiously typed away on your laptop, trying to meet your deadline when suddenly a knock at the door caught your attention. Looking up, you saw Sonny Carisi, your childhood best friend.

“Sonny, what are you doing here?” You smiled brightly and motioned him inside.

He took a seat in front of your desk, “Oh ya’ know, just thought I’d stop by and say hi. I went to Antonio’s bakery and got a cinnamon coffee and those zeppole ya’ love so much.

“That’s so sweet of you. Thanks!” You took a sip of coffee and bit into the powdered sugar donut, the lighter than air pastry melting in your mouth. Then it hit you. This wasn’t just a random visit, Sonny wanted something. You narrowed your eyes at him, “Ok….what do you want.”

He gifted you a wide eyed look, feigning innocence, “What are ya’ talkin’ about? Can’t I just stop by and visit my best friend?”

“Sonny, I’ve known you since you were 5. You want something.”  You quirked an eyebrow at him. “Spill it.”

“Ok…ya’ caught me.” He sighed. “It’s my niece, not Mia, but Sofia, Gina’s girl. It’s her 8th grade middle school dance, ya’ know the big one they have at St. Agnes? She asked me to chaperone but Gina called me this morning and said the school needed more volunteers…so…I may have told her that ….you would chaperone too.”

“Dominick Carisi Jr! Are you insane?!” You exclaimed. “I’m not spending my Friday night babysitting middle schoolers. I hated middle school. I still get flashbacks of Jessica Balducci telling the entire 7th grade class that I was President of the Itty Bitty Titty Committee. No way! No sir! You’re on your own on this one, pal!”

Sonny leaned forward, his hands clasped together, staring at you as if you were his only lifeline. “Please, Y/N. Gina can’t make it, neither can my other sisters. If they don’t get more chaperones, they’ll cancel the dance. It’ll break Sofia’s heart. Please…I’m about to get on my knees and beg ya’ to come with me tonight.” He pouted, giving you his best puppy dog eyes.

You said nothing at first, letting your friend sweat it out for a brief moment before throwing your head back and groaning in defeat. “Fine…I’ll do it, BUT you owe me BIG time!”

“I’ll make it up to you, I swear!” He glanced down at his watch. “I gotta go. I’m going to be late for work. Tonight? Pick you up at 6:30?”

You waved bye to your friend, going back to the article you were writing but you couldn’t concentrate. All you could think about was what the hell do you wear to an 8th grade dance on Staten Island.

Sonny knocked on your door at 6:30 on the dot. He smiled brightly when you greeted him, dressed in a v neck sleeveless floral dress with a soft tulle skirt that hit right above your knees and dark blue platform sandals that matched the embroidered flowers adorning your dress. “Wow,” Sonny whistled. “You look amazing.”

“Thanks. You clean up pretty nice too.”

“Thanks. I…ummmm…I got ya’ a little something.” His cheeks flushed pink, motioning towards one of the corsages in his hand, the other being for his niece. Now it was your turn to blush as Sonny took your hand and placed the corsage around your wrist. “Perfect, now you’re ready.” He softly said, leading you towards his car.

Before you and Sonny went to the dance, you stopped to pick up Sofia. When she opened the door, it was obvious she had been crying, her mascara running down her tear streaked face, her nose red. “Sofia? Honey, what’s wrong?” Sonny asked.

“Nothing…I’m….I’m…..I’m not going to the dance.” She cried and run upstairs, slamming the door. You and Sonny stood in the foyer speechless. “Teenagers,” He mumbled.

“Let me go talk to her.” You walked upstairs, following the sound of Sofia crying.

Standing in front of the teenager’s bedroom, you thought back to when you when you were thirteen and how awful it was, the mean girls, the hormonal changes. The only silver lining was Sonny. He had been by your side through it all. You both leaned on each other. Truth be told, you had a massive crush on him back then and even now all these years later, there were still moments when Sonny made your heart flutter. You let out a deep breath and knocked on the door.

“I don’t want to talk right now, Uncle Sonny.” A small voice said from behind the door.

“Sofia? It’s Y/N. Can I come in?” After a long moment passed, the door slowly creaked open, you walked in to see Sofia sitting on her bed. She had changed into sweats, her bubble gum pink dress tossed aside. “You ok, sweetie?” You sat down next to her.

“No,” she sniffled.

You placed a hand on her shoulder, “Do you want to talk about it? I mean…it wasn’t too long ago that I was thirteen. Maybe I can help?”

She looked up at you with red rimmed eyes, “It’s….this….guy, Nick Bianchi. I like him…a lot and today at lunch this….bitch, Ava, told everyone that I had a crush on him.” The teenager began to cry. “Everyone was laughing and Nick ran out of the cafeteria. I was humiliated. I can’t go to the dance. What if he’s there? What if people start teasing me?”

“So what?” You said, wrapping your shoulder around her. “You are a sweet and beautiful girl and if Nick can’t see that then he’s a moron and doesn’t deserve you. I know middle school can be rough, but it gets better, I promise. Don’t let those douche nozzles dictate your life. They don’t deserve your tears.”

“You really think so?”

“I know so. You go to that dance tonight and blow them all away.”

Sofia went to her vanity mirror and tried to fix her mascara. “I’m a mess. I won’t be ready in time.”

“I think we can fix this.” You smiled and shouted for Sonny to get your emergency makeup kit from the car.

He came back in record time, bringing up a cosmetic bag filled with enough makeup that it would put Sephora to shame. “Good thing you brought this, although I don’t know too many women who have emergency makeup kits.”

“A girl’s gotta be prepared. You never know when you’re going to run into the captain of the football team.” You winked.

You, Sonny, and Sofia made it to the school in record time. You couldn’t believe that you were back at St. Agnes Middle School, but all horrific flashbacks were forgotten when you looked over at Sofia. She was beautiful, a smile planted on her face, dancing and laughing with her friends.

The rest of the evening went smoothly. Although you didn’t recognize any of the songs the DJ played and you were constantly catching prepubescent boys staring at your chest, the dance was actually fun. Sonny and you were flirting the entire night, making eyes at each other from across the gym. You were managing the punch bowl and he was making sure the teenage couples weren’t getting too handsy. You snorted a laugh when you overheard him say, “Make sure you leave room for the Holy Spirit.”

As the dance was winding down, Sofia came up to you with a piece of paper. “Uncle Sonny wanted me to give this to you.”

Opening the slip of paper you saw the question: “Do you want to dance with me?” Underneath the question were two checkboxes, one for yes and one for no. You giggled and grabbed a pen, checking your answer. “Give this back to your uncle. Tell him I’ll meet him on the dance floor.”

Five minutes passed and you were shifting from foot to foot waiting for Sonny. The light from the disco ball on the ceiling reflected against the gym floor as couples danced all around you. When you saw him approach, butterflies began to flutter in your stomach. “Hey….may I have this dance?”

You beamed and took his hand as he pulled you close. “I thought you’d never ask.”

Sonny looked incredibly handsome, you were nervous and excited all at once. It felt as if you were transported back in time about to dance with your middle school crush. He placed his hands on your waist while you wrapped your arms around his neck, swaying side to side when all of the sudden the music changed, the soft piano opening to K-Ci and JoJo’s “All My Life” began to play from the speakers.

I will never find another lover sweeter than youSweeter than youAnd I will never find another lover more precious than youMore precious than you

You gasped, it was your favorite song growing up. “Oh my God! Sonny!? You remembered!?”

He grinned, “Of course, I remember. You played this song all the time when we were kids. I had to bribe the DJ twenty bucks to play it, but then I took back five when he didn’t know who K-Ci and JoJo were.”

You made a face, “How could he not know who K-Ci and JoJo are. This is the quintessential middle school slow jam.”

“I know, right? We gotta educate these youngsters on the finer points of 90s R&B.” He turned his head and saw his niece dancing with her crush a few feet away. “Looks like Sofia is having a good time.”

You followed his gaze and softly smiled as you watched them. “That’s nice at that age. When you like a guy and they like you back. Everything is simple and new, you’re not tainted by the world yet.”

Sonny nodded his head, biting his bottom lip, looking back to you, “Ya’ know….” He huffed out a laugh and shook his head, “Forget it.”

“No what? Spit it out.” You said, absentmindedly running your fingers through the hair on the nape of his neck.

“When we were kids….I ummmmm….I had a major crush on you.” He blushed, the tips of his ears turning pink. “I still do,” he mumbled.

Your heart skipped a beat, listening to Sonny’s confession. “I do too. I love you, Sonny Carisi.” You reached on your tiptoes and placed a soft small kiss on the corner of his mouth.

A smile slowly crept onto his face when you pulled away, “I love ya’ too, doll.” He leaned his forehead against yours while you both continued to dance.

And all my life I’ve prayed for someone like youAnd I thank God that I, that I finally found youAll my life I’ve prayed for someone like youAnd I hope that you feel the same way tooYes, I pray that you do love me too

“Do ya’ want to get some air?” He softly asked.

“Sure,” you replied as he led you off the dance floor. You stopped in your tracks when you spied the broom closet and smirked, back in middle school, all the cool 8th grade girls would go in there with their boyfriends to make out. “Actually, let’s go in here.”

You glanced around to make sure no one was looking before pulling him into the closet. It was pitch black. Sonny took a step forward towards you, his foot ending up in an empty bucket. You both shushed each other, trying not to laugh too loud while stumbling around in the dark. As your eyes adjusted to the darkness, you finally found each other.

He placed his hands on your waist, pulling you close to him. You could make out a hint of a smile dancing in his lips, a few strands of his gelled hair flopping onto his forehead. “Is this ok?” He whispered, his eyes glancing down to your mouth before moving back up to meet your gaze.

“It’s more than ok.” You stood on your tiptoes and cupped his cheek. “Kiss me,” you whispered back, your lips brushing up against his. He leaned forward, gifting you a slow, sensual kiss. You sighed against his mouth, years of pent up sexual tension and emotion finally being released in that single moment.

He moved closer to you, tilting his head to deepen the kiss, his tongue seeking entrance into your mouth, mingling with yours. You tangled your fingers in his hair as the kiss quickly became more fervent. Sonny softly moaned and pressed you up against the wall, his hands roaming your form. You melted under his touch, your body craving more when a bright white light blinded you and a shrill voice pierced the air.

“Mr. Carisi! Ms. Y/L/N!”

“Sister Eileen!” You exclaimed upon seeing your 8th grade English teacher, the bane of your existence when you were in school. Sonny was speechless, his jaw dropped to the floor.

“This is behavior unbecoming of teenagers let alone two adults. Out of the closet now! Don’t think that just because you two are out of school that I won’t give you both detention.”

“Sorry Sister.” You and Sonny mumbled and walked out of the closet.

“I can’t believe she’s still alive and teaching.” You said, making your way back to the gym.

“They say evil never dies.” Sonny replied.

The dance ended pretty soon after you were caught. Sonny drove Sofia home with you in the passenger seat, discreetly running your hand over his, playing with his fingers.

“Oh my God! Guess what happened tonight.” Sofia piped up from the backseat causing you two to separate. “Madison told Becca who told me that Sister Eileen caught some kids making out in the broom closet.”

“Wow….that’s awful. Kids these days…I tell ya’…they have no respect,” Sonny said, his face turning redder by the minute.

Sofia shrugged, “I guess the guy had his hand up her dress and everything.”

“We didn’t get that far,” you muttered.

“What?” Sofia asked.

“Nothing sweetie,” you winked at Sonny as he pulled up to his sister’s house.

Once Sofia was dropped off, you leaned over the car console and kissed Sonny sweetly. He smiled into the kiss, playfully biting down on your bottom petal. “Want to come over to my place? My parents aren’t home,” you teased.

“Just as long as I make curfew,” he said before placing another gentle kiss on your lips. As you both drove back into the city, you laughed to yourself, after all these years, all it took was one dance to make you realize that the love of your life was right in front of you all this time.

@amirightcounsellor @obfuscateyummy @beltzboys2015-blog @letty-o @sweetsummertime99 @sonnysdoll @lyssa1385 @burningsorr0ws @katmstanton @gibbs274 @izzythefanfreak @southern-magnolia @riodallas @eclecticminded @delia26 @glimmerglittergirl @sweetcannolicarisi

[ain-t-bovvered]

Babe, I need a commentary on "Swan Song" more than I need my next breath. Pretty please ‼️

 [Send me an ask with your favourite or a random SPN episode and I’ll comment on it while re-watching it.]

+SPN Commentaries+     

Season 14 

a/n : all the episode SPN gifs are made as I watch , unless they’re from google , you can see that if they are. If you can’t see them you need to use a computer or use the gifs post right under the episode link.

UUUGH *wraps herself in a blanket* 

[zoom on Dean as the song goes “don’t you cry no more” ] J F C

[Chuck’s voice] “On April 21st-”

[slams the laptop close] I can’t do this.

————————————————-

- I gotta . 

*sobs* [open laptop] “ -1967 , the 100 millionth..”

- “the most important car “  

-” Getting folks right for judgment day” 

- “ a used car-lot in Lawrence, where a young marine bought her on impulse”  [sucks breath in]

- “ Where the story begins ..:”

- “…and here is where it ends”

- “Watching out for you,it’s kind of been my job”  “ it’s kinda who I am”

- “I let him out…I gotta put him back”

Goddamn it this will hurt like a son of a bitch , I can’t even be funny

- I always cringed seeing those two demons hanging from the ceiling to bleed out like pigs honestly.

-…and damn that fucking jacket!!!! I hate whoever stole it with all my heart

- Oh fuck Sam’s so disgusted and scared 

- Looking at Castiel sleeping in the back “oh ain’t he a little angel?” 

 S:”Angels don’t sleep”

 D: Well…fuck

-DETROIT

-S “Dean I’m sure he know a buttload we don’t”

-S” you gotta promise me you are not gonna try to bring me back”

 D: WUT, lol sure

-Apple-pie life ….sorry but that doesn’t suit neither of you. AND just because Idgaf about y’all haters….I don’t even want that for them . I mean…I don’t see supernatural ending like that , do you? Blaze of glory guys.

-HE DID NOT PROMISE THO

-time for the goodbyes .

- S “Do you mind not watching this?”

[skipping forward crying] I CAN’T YOU GUYS FUCK YOU

also…that was a lot to drink, I can barely drink two bottles of water a day without being sick.

-S “ We’re here you sons of bitches” 

MOOD

- Hey Lucy…looking rotting

- All those little details in the car makes me so sad and warm and happy, ffs

-WHY DOES HE KNOW ABOUT THE RIIIIINGS

-oh my fuck look at Dean right now….my heart 

-The moment where Sam becomes Lucifer…..DAMN JARED

- And here we have the entire fandom mood

-The mirror talk 

-Samifer: “ Such anger, young Skywalker”-Samifer “ we are two half made whole”S: first of all EWW

-Jesus H Roosevelt Christ , that is so not Sam

-”Sam Winchester this is your life”  

Hi hello, uhm…can someone send help? I think my heart is being ripped off

- C “I suggest we imbibe copious quantities of alcohol “ A MOOD

- D” yes, well, .thank you Bukowski “

- OH WOW BOBBY’S BROKEN FACE DOESN’T AFFECT ME AT ALL. 

Jk that’s insufferable 

-”Sam used to insist on honest jobs.” that’s cute.

-”They could go anywhere and do anything” LIVING THE LIFE I WANT 

-”Sure , they never really had a roof and 4 walls, but they were never, in fact, homeless “

-”It has to end where it started I guess”

-”You are gonna do something stupid. You got that look” TELL ME AGAIN HOW BOBBY IS NOT THEIR FATHER

-”Well I ain’t gonna let him die alone”

[ok …I’ve run out of pitiful cats pics ]

-oh well that’s a graveyard that @curly-haired-disaster would enjoy

- Angels and their constipated staring contest.

- is it bad that I find the fucking Devil reasonable ?!?!?! Like??? he’s?? not wrong??

- JFC Michael is so…aseptic 

-but also I’m imagining this with Michael true vessel and I’m dying because….PARALLELS

ALSO , Michael and Lucifer:

- [PURR] *GASPS* OH look it’s Dean doing something stupid.

-[Rock of Ages starts to play ] My lame 90s’ ass:

*record scratch* In my defense….nope…there is no excuse….proceed *record starts*

-”it’s better to burn out than fade away”

 D mentally : hello you stupid motherfuckers, Dean-suicidal-tendencies-because-nothing-to-lose is here.

- Michael : RUDE

-Lucifer : lol I love this stupid son of a bitch, i’LL KILL HIM LAST

-”Hey, we need to talk” 

can someone get me an infinity rule to measure Dean’s balls right now?

- Satan: This is a new whole mountain of stupid” also I’m so entertained right now. You go mud monkey, do a little dance.

-Dean addressing Adam

Adam in hell : SHUT YOUR WHORE MOUTH

- AND HERE WE HAVE THE GREATEST INSULT

-also…HELLOOOO YOU CASTIEL HATERS MOTHERFUCKERS, HE LITERALLY JUST SIGNED HIS DEATH TO GIVE 5 FRIGGIN MINUTES TO DEAN FOR SOMETHING HE ISN’T EVEN SURE WOULD CHANGE A THING

- Satan “ did you just molotov my brother with holy fire?”

Castiel : …..nnnnno…?

[SPLAT]

- Lucifer grabbing Dean by the collar , slowly , saying “ You are such a pain……” [dramatic pause because Lucifer is a drama queen] “…in my ass”

HOT.

(please don’t start sending me Wincest or SamLucifer x Dean or SamxLucifer stuff , I still don’t like them)

- NAH BOBBEH

- “Oh he’s in here all right” …. kinky

(please don’t start sending me Wincest or SamLucifer x Dean or SamxLucifer stuff , I still don’t like them)

- [Dean gets trashed]

- The toy soldier!!!!

-THE FLASHBACKS

-OH my god he’s so scared and oh look you can see the moment he gives up

-those silent goodbyes

- [gross sobbing]

- also….bye forever Adam and Canon Michael arches.

-The moment Dean realize it’s done and his head bump into the car and his lips trembles and his eyes are so lost and full of pain and then he closes them and turn his head [fades to black]

OH LOOK HE IS ON HIS KNEES , FUCKING GREAT THANKS…..wow ok YA REALLY NEED TO STOP MAKING ME DO COMMENTARIES ON SAD EP , but that would mean that there would be just a handful left then….

- *whop whop * here is Castiel

- D:”Cass are you God? “

 C: “ no but I’ll make you scream that later in the seasons. That’s a nice compliment, but no”

- C: “ New and improved” CASS IS A SERAPH NOW , [LEVEL UP]

- “ you try to tied up any loose ends, but you never can “ … are the writers calling themselves out?

“The fans are always gonna bitch”

HEY

“There’s always gonna be holes”

yeah riiiight

-D “ wow…God gives you a brand new shiny set of wings and suddenly you are his bitch again”

oooooh speaking the truths and we all know what happens in season 6 .

C : “It’s just seems like the right thing to do” 

me : *cringe *

- D: “ All I’ve got is my brother in a hole!”

- C: “ what would you rather have? Peace or Freedom ?” 

CASTIEL WHAT’S WITH THESE IMPOSSIBLE CHOICES, JFC he’s already starting to sounds like what he’ll become in season 6

- D:” You really sucks at goodbyes”

-Bobby and Dean’s hug *sobs*

-Chuck:” Every part of him, every fiber he’s got wants to die…”

thanks god, I hate it

- “..he’s made a promise” 

A VeRy FuCKIng StUPid onE 

- THE VOICE CRACK

- Chuck:” they did alright” 

*spluttering* I’M SORRY WHAT

Also FUCK OFF WITH THIS MUSIC AND THE FLASHBACKS

-”Nothing really ever ends”HERE….RIGHT HERE…at the time I’ve watched this the first time I was…..BITCH WHERE U GO? AND THEN…….OH..OOOOH YOU MOTHERFUCKER.

God every time something bad happens on heart, heaven and hell : 

OH WAIT …

-[ camera pointing in Sam’s face] and where the fuck did you come from bitch.[Hello by Adele starts to play]

.

.

.

Next up : Free to be you and me

ugh I forgot who wanted the tag in these so I’m tagging the ones from the season 14 ones

@waywardbaby     @ravenangel33       @mariekoukie6661    @wayward-and-worn       @spnskinnyballs      @starfirerules      @cloverhighfive    @supernatural-teamfreewillpage   @dragontamerm @closetspngirl @rainflowermoon @destiel-honeypie @mattiecat   @bunnybaby121115  @aliaitee    @jacks-word-of-the-day

[herowords]

Something’s Gotta Give

A/N: The one where the guy who lives above Dean is having crazy, wild sex every fudgin’ night, and Dean’s about as done with the store bought baked goods the dude keeps giving him as he is of the questionable noises that keep Dean up all night. - Written for a prompt.

To say that Dean’s new apartment is not the Taj Mahal would be an understatement. But it had been cheap, and Dean had been desperate, so he’d signed on the dotted line without much fanfare.

And he’s not high maintenance, he can deal with the washing machine that clanks, and the old carpet, and the missing screens on all the windows, but what he can’t deal with is the questionable noises coming from the apartment above him. Every. God. Damn. Night.

He waits a week, hoping it will stop. The noise can’t go on forever, right? But when it’s been eight days, and it’s 3 o’clock in the morning, and Dean’s staring up at the ceiling, drawn from sleep by a wild thump, it’s time to address the issue.

Throwing back the covers, Dean finds his slippers - feet sliding across the carpet in the dark - and stands, marches out of his apartment full of righteous fury. Outside Dean climbs the steps and then he’s standing in front of Weird Noises’ door, and his fist is falling against the door in three sharp knocks. 

It’s a minute before the guy answers. He pulls open the door, frowning, and blinks at Dean in the yellow-y glow of his porch lamp. 

“Yes?” His voice is rough, gravelly, and for a beat Dean doesn’t speak. Because truly the dude is really rocking the JBF look and someone as good looking as he is this early in the morning is going to take some time for Dean to process. So he stares at him - blue eyes droopy, dark hair a complete mess where it stands on end atop his head - because Dean is especially creepy like that.

Another time (like a time that’s not shitass o’clock in the morning), and another place Dean probably would have hit on the guy already. As it were, that’s not why he’s here. 

“Can you keep it down up here? I gotta be up early tomorrow.”

The man’s frown softens, the side of his mouth tugging up into a smile. “I apologize. That was Michael. He can be very loud when he’s excited.”

“He can- okay,” Dean stammers, because the dude says it like they aren’t talking about him and this guy, Michael, going at it at 2 am. “Well it sounds like fun up here, but uh- are you done? ‘Cause I really need my sleep, man.”

The guy nods. “Yes, I believe he’s finished. I’ll make sure he keeps quiet for the rest of the night. Again, I apologize.”

“Thanks uh-”

“Castiel.”

“Thanks, Castiel.”

After that Dean trudges back down to bed, and waits, eyes trained on the ceiling. When he hears nothing, he’s finally able to roll over and sleep. 

~

When Dean gets home from work there’s a plate of cookies on his doorstep and a note. 

Dear Freckles (I’m sorry, but I couldn’t help but notice them last night, they really suit you - and you never told me your name.)

I know I’m not able to give back the sleep you missed, but I can give you cookies. I hope you find them enjoyable.  

Thank you,

Castiel

Dean eyes the cookies. They’re obviously store bought. But at least the guy tried. 

~

Two days later the noises are back. It’s only midnight this time, at least there’s that, but it could be 7 o’clock at night and Dean would still be perturbed. He makes the walk up to Castiel’s apartment and raps on his door. 

“Gettin’ a little loud again, Cas.” Dean says when the door swings open. Castiel looks much like he did the last time, but his eyes are brighter, and his cheeks are flushed. Goddamn post-coital looks good on the guy. 

Castiel’s face goes sheepish, and he blinks at the ground for half a second before bringing his eyes to meet Dean’s again. “Crowley was getting rough. I didn’t realize how loud he was being. I apologize.”

“Crowley?” Dean asks, shocked. What kind of dick parents name their kid Crowley?

“Yes. He isn’t my favorite by any stretch of the imagination, but I do still have a soft spot for him. I’ll keep him quiet.”

Dean nods, “Thanks.” That’s probably all that needs saying, but Dean doesn’t move, staring at Castiel, not ready to say good bye. “Uh, thanks for the cookies. Nestle Toll House?”

“Yes,” Castiel nods in confirmation. “I’m gald you enjoyed them.”

“Yeah. Thanks.” Okay now he’s getting redundant. For a beat he shifts on his feet, wracking his brain for something else to say. “I guess I’ll just-” he hefts a finger over his shoulder. 

“Alright.” 

But as Dean turns to leave a hand closes around his wrist and he finds Castiel looking at him with wide eyes. “What’s your name?”

Dean smiles. “Dean Winchester.”

“Good night, Dean Winchester. I hope you sleep well.”

“Okay,” Dean manages, backing away. “You uh- you sleep well, too.” 

As he walks back towards his apartment he asks himself when Castiel went from Weird Noises to Castiel, the first man to have caught Dean’s eye in a very, very long time. 

~

Dean (I very much like your name),

Again I felt I should offer you something for keeping you up. I hope you enjoy pie. It’s lemon.

Castiel

The pie has a price tag on it and everything. There’s no way it’s going to be half as good as Dean’s, but letting it go to waste would be, well, a waste. Store bought or not, it’s still pie. 

~

Monday passes without incident, Tuesday does, too. But when there’s another loud thump sounding right above Dean’s head, he’s almost relieved. It’s not that he’s been looking for another excuse to talk to Castiel, except for that it is. 

Climbing out of bed Dean almost smiles. 

“It was Samandriel,” Castiel offers before Dean even has to say anything. “He’s still fairly young and just learning the rules. But I’ve spoken with him, and I don’t think it will be happening again.”

“Okay,” Dean offers, because he’s not sure what else there is to say. Cas has a different partner four days out of the seven, and at this point Dean’s a little less worried about the loud noises, and more concerned with how he gets a spot on Cas’s list. Right at the top would be nice. 

Castiel doesn’t close his door, and Dean doesn’t move from the Welcome mat. Silence creeps between them, but maybe if Dean waits just a few more seconds, he’ll have something else to say. 

Eventually Cas is the one to break the silence. “How was the pie?”

“Good,” Dean nearly shouts. When he’s calmed himself the fuck down, he repeats himself. More quietly. (More normal.) “It was good. Thanks for leaving it for me.”

Castiel’s eyes twinkle. “I’m glad to hear it.” 

After that there really isn’t anything more to say. It’s almost 4 am, and Dean’s certain he’s not the only one who needs to sleep. He reaches out a hand and lets it rest on Cas’s shoulder, squeezing gently. “Good night,” he says. 

“Good night,” Castiel responds, a small smile curving his lips. 

Dean’s not even to the stairwell before he’s mentally ripping himself a new asshole because that was weird as fuck. There was no need to touch Cas, he’d just wanted to. It was still fucking weird, he reminds himself. And maybe Cas won’t ever answer his door again. 

~

The donuts don’t come as a shock when Dean finds them resting on his stoop. There’s half a dozen in the box, all different flavors, and the accompanying note is taped to the lid. 

Dean,

I wasn’t sure which kind you prefer so I settled on an assortment. Samandriel sends his regards and apologies. ;) 

- C

He’s used to the desserts and notes from Cas by now, but seeing Samandriel’s name in print shakes him a little. So Cas talks about Dean to his conquests. Great.

~

After Samandriel there’s Gabriel and brownies, then Raphael and cupcakes, and Gadreel and lemon bars, and when Dean storms upstairs yet again, he waits for Castiel to open the door with fists clenched and teeth grit. 

This time when Castiel’s door swings open, he’s holding a cat under one arm, petting it’s head with the other. 

“Are you an escort or something?” Dean blurts, because even Dean - who’s a big fan of sex, huge fan - doesn’t get laid as often as Cas does. 

Cas’s classic frown is back, and he studies Dean quietly for a beat. “You think I’m a male sex worker?” He asks, head tilted to the side. The cat in his arms squirms, and Castiel brings it to his chest, letting it head butt his hand, then scratching behind its ears. 

“Yes?” Dean offers, but then the way Cas is looking at him is more confused than guilty. “No? I don’t know, dude. You’ve got thumps, and bangs, and plops coming from up here all night. I assumed-”

“That I was having sex?”

Dean scrubs a hand at the back of his neck. “Yeah?”

With a shake of his head, Castiel points to the cat in his arms. “Dean, this is Michael, my cat. Lucifer is also a cat, as is Samandriel, and Gabriel, and Raphael, and Gadreel.”

“Wait, you have six cats up here? Isn’t that illegal or something?” And for some reason the fact that it’s fucking cats making all the noise makes so much more sense than Cas having an un-tamable libido. 

Nodding, Castiel opens his door wider to permit Dean inside. “Come in,” he says, “please.”

Inside the place is tidy. With six cats running amok Dean assumed Castiel’s apartment would be covered in cat hair and smell like crap, but all he can smell is lavender. 

“I adopt and foster cats and kittens. That’s why I have so many. Some will go to new homes when they are ready, some will stay with me for the rest of their lives.”

Dean’s eyes dart around the apartment, seeing 1, 2, 3, 4 cats all peering at him curiously from behind some piece of furniture or another. “I’m an idiot,” he mutters. But when he looks at Cas, the man is smiling gently at him. 

“You’re not an idiot, Dean. How were you to know it was cats making all the ruckus?”

“Yeah, I guess.” Dean shrugs. 

“I won’t lie to you, Dean,” Castiel states, eyes and nose crinkling with his growing smile. “I’ve grown quite fond of our visits. Even if they are in the middle of the night.”

Now Dean’s smiling, cheeks flushing. “Me too,” he admits.

“Perhaps now we can find other reasons to meet.”

Dean feels light now, happy. So Cas isn’t running a Den of Iniquity, he’s just doing the animal world a solid. And while Dean’s no one to judge how many people someone sleeps with, he feels a strange sort of relief that he was wrong about Castiel. “What are you doing tomorrow afternoon?” 

“Not a thing.”

“Awesome. I think it’s time you learn how to actually bake baked goods.”

“You bake?” Castiel questions, head tilting in that adorable way of his. (That’s right, adorable.) 

“I own a bakery,” Dean explains, “hell yeah I bake.”

Castiel is nodding now, smile still plastered on his face making Dean feel warm. “I'd like that very much.”

After Dean scribbles down the address to his bakery he and Castiel say their good nights and Dean enters his apartment with a dopey grin on his face. Cats, he thinks to himself as he drifts back to sleep. Cats.  

~

The following afternoon Castiel arrives at Dean’s bakery at 1 o’clock on the dot. It’s kinda strange seeing him in something other than pajamas, but at least the guy’s hair is still a complete disaster. 

“You ready to get your bake on?” Dean asks, when Castiel breezes through the door. He hands Cas an apron that matches his own, and puts up a Closed For Lunch sign. 

“I think a more appropriate question would be ‘Are you ready to burn things while I stand in the corner and laugh?’“

Dean lets out a chuckle. “You’re not going to burn anything. I’m supervising, remember?”

“It’s happened before, Dean.” Castiel loops the apron over his head, turning his back to Dean. “Tie me up?”

God yes, Dean thinks, cheeks burning, but then he reminds himself - and his dick - to stay calm. We’re baking cookies for fuck’s sake, he tells himself as he ties Castiel’s apron strings into a messy bow. Remain calm.

Dean’s calm for all of ten minutes and then he’s standing at Cas’s back, showing him the most efficient way to use an electric beater. Cas smells clean, citrisy Dean thinks, and his back is warm against Dean’s front. There is not a shred of calm to be found.

“Am I doing it?” Castiel asks, neck craned so his eyes meet Dean’s. 

Dean smiles, then moves in to brush his lips against Castiel’s. When Dean pulls away, Castiel’s flushed and grinning wide. “Yeah,” Dean says. “You’re doing it.”

And so maybe Cas makes a lot of noise (or his cats do, whatever) Dean reasons it’s not so bad anymore; as long as he’s there to make noise with him.

[sprousehq]

City Nights ft Dylan

“You are indeed pregnant!” It was two am. Cole wasn’t sure why these words from the doctor kept replaying in his mind, forbidding him from sleep, well he did know why. What he couldn’t understand was why today of all days, they had to keep him awake. He had known Lili was pregnant for a few days now and still had managed to sleep as well as his insomniac self usually could. Today however proved to be different and Cole had been laying in the exact same spot, staring at the same mark on the ceiling for at least five hours. His brain refused to turn off no matter how many times he repeated to himself that he needed sleep.

He turned over in his bed, pulling the blankets back up as the cooling weather nipped at his bare torso. The bright lights from the phone screen illuminated the room and he made quick work of turning down the brightness so it wouldn’t cover the room and possibly wake the other occupant in the bed. He had only been scrolling through Instagram for a few minutes before his phone lit up and Cole was hurrying to answer the call before the ringtone sounded for too long. “Dylan?” He answered, slipping a hoodie on before making to the leave the room and with a quick glance back towards the bed, shut the bedroom door behind himself.

“Cole?”

“Dylan, it’s two am” Cole spoke, walking through the darkened apartment. The shadows of light were bouncing off the walls, illuminating just enough for Cole to be able to see his way through to the kitchen.

“I know, but you were already up and airports are boring” Dylan reasoned and Cole couldn’t blame him. He wasn’t wrong, they were boring and usually the time he was most active too. “Besides,” Dylan continued, “You never called on Saturday night remember? When you left to go and check on Lili?”

Cole did remember, he was sure that night would forever be engrained into his memory. The night everything had changed and it hadn’t been even close to being the same since. “Yeah, sorry” Cole apologised, realising he was getting easily distracted and had barely been paying attention to anything his brother was saying.

“So?”

“So what?”

“So what happened? Was everything okay when you got back to her?”

No. Cole wanted to answer back. No my whole life is completely changing and I have absolutely no control over it. Or clue what I’m doing, he added as an afterthought.

“Lili’s pregnant” Cole had blurted out before he could stop himself. “I’m going to be a dad”.

It was the first time Cole had actually uttered those words out loud and despite the constant feeling of being overwhelmed whenever he thought of the fact, he couldn’t help the small smile that had graced his face. He still wasn’t sure he’d completely come around yet but he didn’t think it would be too long until he’d come to terms with it and Cole was hoping that by the time it actually came around to telling everyone they wanted that they’d be more accepting of it.

The other side of the line was silent for a moment and Cole was beginning to wonder if Dylan had actually heard him before his brother spoke.

“Are you fucking with me?”

“I promise you I’m not”

“Jesus, that’s…intense”

Cole chuckled slightly, pulling a mug out of the top cupboard. “That’s one way to put it”

“Are you guys okay?” Dylan asked.

Cole ran a hand through his hair, starting the coffee machine before answering. “I think so. I mean apart from being completely unprepared and having no idea what we’re doing, I think we’re doing alright. The best that we can really” It seemed that they were currently of the ‘take things one day at a time’ motto and so far it had been going okay. “We went to the doctors a couple days ago and it’s been a little bit better since then. Lili’s Mom’s in town too so that’s been quite helpful”

“And Lili, how is she doing?”

“Not great” Cole frowned, holding the steaming mug of coffee in one hand and his phone up to his shoulder as he made his way outside. “She’s seven weeks so she’s either tired, nauseous or a combination of both, pretty much all the time. Growing a human is hard work, as she puts it”

“I bet, that sounds awful” Dylan sympathised.

“Yeah it is” Cole agreed “But there isn’t really much we can do. She can’t take any medication or anything for it so we just have to wait it out I think”

“How did everyone else take it when you told them?”

“Well we didn’t really tell Amy at all, she kind of surprised us by showing up unannounced for a visit. We came home to her, Sarah and Addy on the couch and she was holding the bottle of prenatal vitamins in her hand. She was shocked to say the least” Cole sipped from his coffee, looking out over the city of Vancouver. It was still extremely early and yet the city still seemed to be alive or at least the centre of town was “And you’re the only other person we’ve told” He continued “I’ll tell Dad soon but apart from that we’re not telling anyone for as long as we can”

“So I assume you’re not..”

“No” Cole’s tone took a hard edge as he answered his brothers question before he could finish. He knew exactly what he was going to say. “We’re not telling her at all. She doesn’t even know Lili’s name and she’s not being invited to the wedding either” He spoke with a sense of finality, hoping that Dylan would drop the subject. Every time his mother was brought up, Cole felt a little more protective and he didn’t want the current conversation to be ruined by a sour mood from either of them.

“Good” Dylan replied. “That’s smart”

Cole nodded before realising that Dylan couldn’t see him. “Yeah” He said softly.

“So your show premieres sometime soon right?” Dylan changed the subject and Cole was grateful, sipping his coffee as he listened to him speak.

“Yeah. Next week”

“Next week? That’s close. I haven’t seen anything promo wise about that around here”

“Yeah I’m not sure what’s going on with that but Lili’s coming to New York on the weekend with some of the cast for a couple of conventions and then I think a talk show”

“And let me guess, you’ve already looked at flights because you’re freaking out about her being away and pregnant?”

“Which nobody knows, I mean it. Nobody from the cast knows or anything either. There’s five adults and a toddler who know, literally. I’m just worried. What if something happens?”

“I’m sure she’ll be fine but if it helps any I’ll be in the city this weekend so she can just call if she needs to”

“Thanks Dylan” Cole hadn’t doubted that anyone would do something if something did happen and yet Dylan’s words eased his worried conscience, if only a little bit.

“Hey, I gotta go they’re calling my flight but Cole?”

“Yeah?”

“You and Lili are going to be great parents”

For some reason this made him slightly emotional “Thank you” Cole told him sincerely.

“I’ll call you later okay?”

“Sure. Bye”

“Bye”

He wasn’t sure what it was about Dylan’s words or maybe it was the fact that they had come from Dylan, but for the first time Cole was truly beginning to believe them. He and Lili had both expressed that they thought each other would be good parents but it felt different coming from his brother. That someone else believed that they could do it, just as they had been trying to convince one another of the same thing for a few days. They could have a baby. It would be challenging, that was true, but Cole was sure that they could get through it, together.

He picked up his now cold and empty cup and made his way back inside, dropping the cup in the sink on his way through the kitchen and back into the master bedroom. It was a little after three am now and Cole shedded his hoodie and climbed back into the warm confines of his bed. His mind finally felt like it was at peace and soon sleep had taken over. The house silent once more.

[coldcomputersoul]

Marco vs. the Forces of Love Episode 8: Amarillo...

Summary: It’s a hoot and a holler when Star and the girls make a quick recap of the recent events in their lives.

Star vs. the Forces of Evil belongs to:

© Daron Nefcy

© Disney Television Animation

[theme song]

ACT I

[The episode starts with a time card that says: Previously on...]

Announcer:

[v.o] Previously on Marco vs. the Forces of Love...

Star: [sigh] You gotta be kidding me... [she slams the wand against the wall] Come on, work you piece of junk…

Jackie: Maybe you should ask Hekapoo to help you with that.

Star: Oh, no no no… I got this [raises her wand] MAGIC FIREWORKS!!!

Janna: You know Marco: It is well known that when are flies around, [whispering] the devil is near around watching...

Marco: Th-The devil?

Tom: The person I refer as my one true love, is none other than the one I’m looking right now... [stares at Marco]

Marco: Excuse me?

[Tom snaps his fingers and the snake takes Marco to the underworld]

Star: MARCO!!!

Tom: Now if you excuse me, I have a date with the destiny, so… bye bye...

Star: [pointing at Tom with her wand] Don’t make me do this Tom.

Tom: Come on Star, be reasonable. Just let me have Marco back and no one will get hurt.

Star: Over my dead body.

Jackie: ...We must remain as close to each other as possible.

Hekapoo: Are you thinking what I thinking?

Marco: No...

Everyone: SLEEPOVER AT MARCO’S HOUSE!!!

[Cut to Star, Jackie, Janna and Hekapoo sleeping around Marco. In that moment, the image freezes]

Star:

[v.o] You’re all probably wondering how did we end up in this situation, I mean, how did Marco, of all people, got romantically involved with four girls at once? sure you can argue that Marco has always been quite popular, but… come on, this is just ridiculous. Now, for those who want to know how it all started, just sit back and let me take you back to the past on a magical journey full of rainbows, narwhals and unicorns… [ehem] Far, far away in a magical land called Mewni, lived a princess...

Janna:

[v.o] Star, what the heck are you doing?

Star:

[v.o] Uhm, I’m trying to tell the story of how we end up sleeping with Marco, duh...

Janna:

[v.o] Yeah, I know that. What I’m trying to say is that you don’t need to go THAT far back in time you dummy. We’re talking about Marco here, so stop fooling around and get to the point, okay?

[beat]

Star:

[v.o] Did you just called me a dummy?

Jackie:

[v.o] What’s going on here?

Star:

[v.o] Oh, hey Jackie. I was trying to tell our story to our friends from the beginning, you know, back in the good old days when it was just Marco and I...

Janna:

[v.o] Oh, you mean back when you had a crush on Oskar Greason?

Oskar: Hey, is that a new wand?

Star: What? This thing? [showing the wand] no, actually it’s the same wand. it changes every time I reach a new level of magical power or something...

Oskar: Sweet.

Star: You think so? It’s funny how it all happened, you see, last summer Marco and I were fighting against this lizard monster that wanted to take over Mewni and...

Oskar: [interrupting her] Lizard monster?. In my other school I was part of a band named Lizard Monster and I was like… the lead vocalist, but they kicked me out because they said I wasn’t good enough.

Star: Well, I’m sorry to hear that.

Oskar: Yeah, but the truth is, I think they were just jealous, that’s why they turned down all my ideas. Gosh. Idiots.

Star:

[v.o] Please don’t remind me that…

Janna:

[v.o] Hey, you’re the one who brought up the subject.

Star:

[v.o] Shut up… As I was saying: [shows clips from The Battle of Mewni] It all started last summer after my mom took me back to Mewni after the evil monster Toffee returned to take over the kingdom. After the Magic High Commision were defeated, me and my mom...

Janna:

[v.o] Star… for today?

Star:

[v.o] Okay, okay, I get it, ugh. So long story short: I turned into a giant butterfly, destroyed Toffee and everything went back to normal. The end. Are you happy now?

Janna:

[v.o] Well that was just terrible. You know absolutely nothing about storytelling.

Star:

[v.o] Get outta town Janna...

Jackie:

[v.o] Wait, there’s something I don’t understand: I thought your mom decided to take you back forever, or at least that’s what I heard. What happened?

Star:

[v.o] Oh, right. I forgot about that part, my bad. Well, you see...

[Cut to Star lying on her bed while wearing Marco’s Hoodie. Her mother watches her very concerned, so she goes to talk to her]

Queen Butterfly:

[sitting on the bed] Is... everything okay, Star?

Star:

[staring at the ceiling] Yeah...

Queen Butterfly:

Because your father and I noticed that you have been a little under the weather these last few weeks. Am I wrong?

Star:

No, not  at all, I just... need some time to adapt, that’s all...

Queen Butterfly:

Whatever the reason may be, I just want you to know that it wasn’t my intention so take you away from Earth so abruptly. But you gotta understand, we were on the middle of a crisis and...

Star:

Listen mom. I know what you’re trying to do, and I really appreciate it and all, but… These are my personal issues and somehow I don’t think that you would quite understand.

Queen Butterfly:

Of course I do dear, I remember having my own personal issues when I was your age, so don’t be afraid to tell me.

Star:

Thanks mom.

Queen Butterfly:

Well, I guess I’ll leave you alone now. I have some job to do.

Star:

Good luck with that.

Queen Butterfly:

Thanks... [she prepares to leave the room] Oh, and another thing: Your father and I decided that you might need just a little bit more training so… We’re gonna send back to earth next week.

[Star gets excited as soon as she hears it]

Star:

Really? [she gets up the bed] Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you mom. It means a lot to me.

Queen Butterfly:

Just promise me that you’ll stay out of trouble. 

Star:

Don’t worry mom, I won’t let you down this time. Hugs... [she hugs her mom]

[Cut back to present]

Star:

[v.o] And that’s pretty much it.

Jackie:

[v.o] That was a nice gesture.

Star:

[v.o] I know. I guess my mom can be pretty cool sometimes.

Janna:

[v.o] Yeah, that was a nice story and stuff, but seriously we need to move on. Time’s important.

Jackie:

[v.o] I agree with Janna, we’re gonna have to stay on track from now on, so anyway, it all started when Marco and I were returning back home...

[Marco and Jackie walk into the living room and find Star sitting at the couch along with Marco’s parents]

Marco: [gasps] No… Way...

Star: [gasps] Marco!!!

[Star jumps right into Marco and hugs him. He hugs her back but they immediately step back due the romantic tension]

Marco: I’m so glad to see you here. I thought last summer would be the last...

Star: [interrupting him] What happened to your nose?

Marco: Oh, this? It’s nothing to worry about, I just need to put some ice and...

Star: Ice? pfft… give me a break. Let me help you with that... [she raises her wand and menacingly points it right into Marco’s face]

Marco: [nervous] Uhm, Star? You don’t really have to do this...

Star: RETURNIO NASUS NORMARINO!!!

[Marco closes his eyes while Star blasts his face with magic, then he opens them and realizes that he’s okay and his nose is fixed]

Marco: My… nose is fine? Wow, thank you Star.

Star: Don’t mention it. That’s what friends are for.

Star:

[v.o] Aw, Marco and I look so cute together...

Jackie:

[v.o] Yeah, but then there was the party incident...

Jackie: Hey girls, do you know where Marco is? I’m worried about him.

Chantal: Uhm, no… I didn’t see him.

Sabrina: Neither do I...

Jackie: Well. If you find Marco, can you tell him that I…?

[But Oskar appears in front of them to interrupt their conversation]

Oskar: Excuse me, but my keyboard just broke and I need a place to keep it while I find the missing keys. Can I use this closet?

Sabrina: Oskar, don’t open that…

[Before she can finish the sentence, Oskar opens the door revealing Star kissing Marco]

Sabrina: ...door.

[Star opens her eyes and realizes that she’s kissing Marco while everyone else just watch the scene in shock]

Star:

[v.o] [sigh] How many times do I have to apologize for that? I told you it was an accident.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Well, it looks like you couldn’t stay out of trouble after all.

Everyone:

[v.o] Hekapoo?

Star:

[v.o] And what are you doing here?

Hekapoo:

[v.o] I could ask you the same question. Is this supposed to be a recap? because so far I have no idea what’s going on.

Janna:

[v.o] How long have you been hearing us?

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Eh, long enough...

Star:

[v.o] Well you had to be there to fully understand. Right Jackie?

Jackie:

[v.o] Uhm, I don’t wanna take sides on this.

Star:

[v.o] Oh, come on Jackie. I thought I was your friend, that’s why we ended up agreeing to share Marco until he clear up his mind.

Jackie:

[v.o] Well, that’s technically true, but...

Janna:

[v.o] Do I also need to remind the incident at the changing room?

Hekapoo:

[v.o] The changing room? That sounds interesting...

[Star grabs Marco’s hand and put it on her breast. Marco’s heart starts to beat faster, so he grabs her by her back and start to make out. In that moment, Jackie arrives and watches them]

Jackie: Marco…?

[They turn around and see Jackie, so they quickly separate]

Marco: [getting nervous] It’s not what it looks like… I mean it is, but...

Star: Before you can say anything. Let me explain… I… I was… Marco was at the pool wearing that speedo and I lost control over myself… I’m sorry, I know today is supposed to be your turn with him.

Jackie: It’s okay.

Star: What?

Jackie: I know what you meant. I also got aroused watching Marco at the pool, it’s okay.

Star: Really? Uf, for a second I thought I was in big trouble...

Jackie: However… You were planning to do this behind my back. If you want to be with Marco, that’s okay with me, but I need to know it first. Otherwise it’s hard for me to trust both of you.

Star: I know, and I’m sorry for that. It won’t happen again.

Jackie: Yeah, I hope so, because now I’m feeling more aroused than ever and I want to do it with Marco right now...

Marco: [baffled] Huh?

Janna:

[v.o] And you can pretty much figure out the rest...

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Oh, that’s classic Marco...

Star:

[v.o] Hey, wait a minute: How did you know about that if you weren’t there?

Janna:

[v.o] Wasn’t I, Star?

Star: Well, that was fun. But I’m thirsty. Anyone go for a soda?

Jackie: Yeah, I want a soda too. Maybe if we were lucky the Stop & Slurp is still open...

Marco: Actually, I was thinking to make some Orange Smoothies at my place.

Star: Uh, that sounds even better. What’s an Orange Smoothie anyway?

Jackie: Oh, you’re gonna love it. Trust me.

[After they left, one of the lockers suddenly opens revealing Janna with her jaw wide open]

Star:

[v.o] Oh, I get it. You were spying on us while we were having sex. What a creep.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Says the same girl who uses her magic to spy on people using the All-Seeing eye.

Janna:

[v.o] Yikes, she sure hit that nail on the head.

Star:

[v.o] Okay, both of you need to shut up right now. Jackie, please, back me up on this. Tell them about all the good things I’ve done so far...

Jackie:

[v.o] Well, there was that time when you and I made lunch for Marco...

Star: Alright, here it comes.

[Star puts a huge lunch box on the table]

Star: Okay, you can open your eyes now.

[Marco opens his eyes and sees the lunch box in front of him]

Marco: Wow, I… I don’t know what to say...

Star: A simple “thank you” will be enough.

Marco: I mean, the fact that you took the trouble to prepare me this lunch box… It’s a really nice nesture. It makes me feel happy.

Star: Well, to be fair, I wouldn’t make it without the help of Jackie. Right?

Jackie: Well, it was Star’s idea, but I did what a could to make it special. Just for you.

Marco: Okay, so don’t waste any more time and see what you made for me. 

[Marco opens the box and sees that it’s full of tacos]

Marco: [raising an eyebrow] Uhm, tacos...

Star: Yeah, I know it’s your favorite food next to nachos, so I made a box full of them.

Janna:

[v.o] Tacos? Really?

Star:

[v.o] What’s wrong? I thought it was a good idea.

Janna:

[v.o] Oh no, you’re right. Maybe next time you should give him a piñata full of burritos as a birthday gift. Just sayin’.

Star:

[v.o] Mmmm… I love burritos...

Janna:

[v.o] I rest my case.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Maybe if you would spend more time trying to learn more about Marco instead of make shallow assumptions, none of this would happen...

Star:

[v.o] What are you talking about. I’m her best friend. We know everything about each other and I NEVER did anything at his expense.

Janna:

[v.o] Yeah, right.

Star:

[v.o] Don’t “yeah right” me, Janna.You know I’m telling the truth. Right Jackie?

Jackie:

[v.o] Uhm, actually...

Star: [sigh] Why is he taking so long? It’s 4 ‘O'Clock already and I’ve sent him a text like an hour ago.

Jackie: Either he didn’t got your message or, he’s just taking his time. I mean... Karate is not something you can rush just like that.

Star: [crossing her arms] But still it’s rude to makes us wait for him like this.

Jackie: Perhaps we just need to stop talking about Marco for a moment, don’t you think?

Star: [sigh] You’re right… [gets a lightbulb over her head] Wait a minute… That’s it: Jackie, you’re a genius.

Jackie: [raising an eyebrow] What did I said?

Star: What If we deliberately avoid Marco in any way?

Jackie: Avoid Marco? As if... Giving him the silent treatment?

Star: Mmmm… It sounds pretty bad when you say it with those words, but… yes.

Jackie: I don’t know Star. Isn’t that a little extreme?

Star: But it’s bulletproof, I mean, think about it: We avoid have sex with him for... Let’s just say a month, at some point he would have no choice but declare his love to win us back.

Jackie: That sounds like manipulation Star.

Star: But it’s not like we have to act like we’re mad at him or anything. We can turn him down with subtlety. 

Star:

[v.o] Okay granted, that wasn’t exactly one of my best ideas, but you can’t blame me for trying...

Jackie:

[v.o] No one’s blaming you Star. You just need to learn to be just a little bit more patient.

Star:

[v.o] Aw, but how long do I have to wait?

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Uhm, have you considered to see other people? Because... if your personal feelings are more important to you than Marco you could just… you know, watch out for other fish in the sea.

Star:

[v.o] Yeah, nice try Hekapoo, but I know what you’re trying to do.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] And… what exactly am I trying to do?

Star:

[v.o] You just want me to get out the way so you can have Marco all by yourself.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] No… I’m just saying that there’s no need for you to get so obsessed over a boy just because he doesn’t fall for you. Sometimes you win and sometimes you lose.

Star:

[v.o] Oh, and you’re expect me to believe that you’re not trying to win Marco’s heart just like the rest of us… give me a break...

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Okay: A) This is NOT a competition okay?, we all agree to step back to avoid any kind of confrontation, and B) Even if that were true, I would prefer to win fair and square rather than take shortcuts. Cheating is for the weak.

Jackie:

[v.o] Wow, you sound very passionate about this. I like your determination.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Thanks Jackie. You’re such a good sport.

Jackie:

[v.o] Maybe we can hang out one of these days. I know a couple of places where we can go and have a good time or something...

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Sounds like a good idea.

Janna:

[v.o] Uhm, sorry to interrupt your flirting, but we’re in the middle of something here.

Jackie:

[v.o] Oh, of course… the recap. So, where were we exactly?

Janna:

[v.o] Now it’s time to talk about the time I took Marco to the janitor’s room...

Marco: ... just show me the thing you we’re talking about and let’s get this over with.

Janna: Hey, easy there safeman. I was getting into that. [checking her cell phone] Here it is.

[Janna shows Marco a photo of him, Star and Jackie making out at the girls changing room. Marco starts panicking as he sees the picture]

Janna: I must confess that you REALLY caught me off guard that day, I mean… With Star and Jackie at the same time? At the changing room? Man, I knew you were popular with the girls, but that is just plain insane. I’m quite impressed.

(...)

Marco: Janna, this isn’t funny!!! My reputation is at risk. Please, I’ll do whatever you want.

Janna: WHATEVER I want?

Marco: Do I have to repeat myself like a broken record?!!! [grabs Janna by the shoulders] YES, You can ask for whatever you want!!!

Janna: Mmmm… Let me think about it for a second… I got it.

Marco: [getting more desperate] So what is it?!!!

Janna: F*** me.

Star:

[v.o] Oh My God, that was horrible. What is wrong with you?

Janna:

[v.o] Hey, you had to be there to understand what happened, okay?

Hekapoo:

[v.o] You know, I had to agree with Star on this one. Blackmailing is bad.

Janna:

[v.o] Oh, come on girls. You know I didn’t really mean it. That was the only way to get his attention. You gotta believe me… Jackie, you know I’m telling the truth right?

Jackie:

[v.o] I… need some time to think about it.

Janna:

[v.o] Well, uhm… how about a break? I can explain to you in the meantime.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Okay, but you’re gonna have to invite us for a couple of smoothies.

Janna:

[v.o] Right, right, right... you have a deal.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] AND you’re gonna have to pay for all of us...

Janna:

[v.o] Aw, man… Well, I guess I’m gonna have to do it. Come on let’s go...

ACT II

Janna:

[v.o] ...and that’s the whole reason of why I did what I did. I know it was wrong and I promise I won’t do it again. Can you forgive me now?

Jackie:

[v.o] Don’t worry Janna, we forgive you.

Star:

[v.o] Yeah, we understand that is not your fault to be such a creep.

Jackie:

[v.o] Star, please don’t ruin the moment. 

Star:

[v.o] Okay.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Besides, it’s not like we were going to stay mad at you forever.

Janna:

[v.o] Thanks for your understanding. I know sometimes I can step out the line, but I never meant to hurt anybody. Especially Marco.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Speaking of Marco: Weren’t we supposed to keep going with the plot and stuff?

Jackie:

[v.o] Oh, of course... the plot. Okay, let’s see: So far we covered Star’s affair, the incident at the changing room, the involvement of Janna… but we didn’t talk about Marco’s graduation ceremony at Sensei Brantley’s dojo...

Star:

[v.o] You’re right. I completely forgot about that.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] This is gonna be good...

Sensei Brantley: Alright, the next student on the list is: MARCO DIAZ, go ahead dude, you can do it... 

[Marco makes a reverence and gets on position]

Marco: [thinking to himself] Okay Marco, you can do this. Just don’t be nervous.

[Marco takes his time to focus while everyone in the audience just watches him in suspense. He takes a deep breath, walks a few steps back from the starting line and proceeds to jump and spin in the air like a ballet dancer. He manages to kick the bottle out of the table without touching the glasses, but just for a few inches. Finally, he lands on the floor and gets acclaimed by everyone in the audience]

Marco: [opening his eyes] I… I did it?

Sensei Brantley: [hugging Marco] Congratulations Marco. I knew that you could make it.

Marco: Uhm… Sensei?

Sensei Brantley: What?

[Sensei Brantley notices that everyone is watching them sharing a hug, so he lets him go and proceeds to continue with the next student]

Star:

[v.o] Woohoo!!! Marco rules!!!

Jackie:

[v.o] I know right? and did you notice that spin in the air? it kinda reminds me of a stunt I learned at skate camp.

Star:

[v.o] Really? What’s that about?

Jackie:

[v.o] Well, it starts like your typical 720 or 1080 depending on how much of an expert you’re at it, but instead of holding the nose all the way down like you would normally do, you let it go at the precise moment and make a front flip while you’re still in mid-air. Now, this is a really hard thing to do, and if you miscalculate it you can fall on your face, so you have to make sure your feet are pointing at the same direction while bending your knees, otherwise the landing...

Janna:

[v.o] Uhm, Jackie...

Jackie:

[v.o] What?

Janna:

[v.o] The plot, we need to keep going...

Jackie:

[v.o] Oh yeah, the plot… sorry… anyway: After the ceremony we went to celebrate at Marco’s place while their parents were out on a date or something... 

Janna:

[v.o] Oh, I get where this is going...

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Wow, you girls never miss a single opportunity. I’m actually kind of jealous.

Jackie:

[v.o] Well, what can I say? it was the least we could do after lying to him the way we did.

Star:

[v.o] Yeah, but the important thing is: We gained Marco’s trust back and we were all ready to move forward, or at least I that’s what I thought until...

Janna: ...and when the milk came out of his nose and fall over Brittney’s dress and she was like… [impersonating Brittney] YUCK!!! BOYS ARE SO GROSS!!! I’ll never forget that day.

Marco: Me neither. That is like… on my top 10 of funniest moments ever. Poor Alfonzo though.

Janna: Yeah, but you have to remember that he’s lactose intolerant, so that was the best outcome. For him at least.

Marco: I guess you’re right.

Janna: Not to mention that she was wearing new shoes as well.

Marco: And since then, she avoids wearing new clothes at school.

Janna: Yeah, but it’s not like anyone really cares...

Marco: Yeah… [beat]

Janna: So… Can I have a second round?

Marco: What? You wanna do it again at the shed?

Janna: No, I don’t like to repeat myself. Maybe we can do it over a tombstone this time.

Marco: Do it over someone else’s grave? Now that’s just too far. Even for you.

Janna: I was kidding. Jeez.

Marco: Oh Janna…

[They start making out next to a tree while Star just watches them very upset]

Janna:

[v.o] So, you’re admitting that you were spying us? and then you say that I’m the creep...

Star:

[v.o] I was looking for Marco that one time, so that doesn’t count.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Yeah, you know what else doesn’t count? pretend that you’re Marco’s official girlfriend...

Star: Does that mean we’re done?

Hekapoo: Mmm… Yeah, we’re done. You can go now...

Star: Finally...

Hekapoo: Just… one more thing...

Star: [sigh] What is it?

Hekapoo: Relax, it doesn’t have to do with magic. It’s about Marco.

Star: Marco?!!! [As soons as she mentions him, Star gets nervous and starts shivering] What do you wanna know?

Hekapoo: [blushing] I know it’s none of my business, but… Are you still a thing?

Star: A thing? You mean like… boyfriend and girlfriend?

Hekapoo: [staring at the floor] Yeah...

Star: Why do you ask? Do you like him too? I-I Mean… Do you like him?

Hekapoo: No, no no… I’m just curious because last time I checked you were pretty close and...

Star: [interrupting her] Yeah, totally. We love each other and we’re still dating, so… he’s totally unavailable now. I’m sorry.

Hekapoo: [looking disappointed] Uhm. okay. I was asking because I was hoping that... 

Star: Well too bad because he’s my boyfriend. That’s the way it is, bye. [leaves the room in a hurry]

Hekapoo: [staring at the floor] Bye.

Star:

[v.o] [sigh] This is ridiculous, I don’t have to stand for this, after all: of all the people in this room, I’m the one who’s closer to Marco. You girls are just freeloaders.

Janna:

[v.o] Oh Really? because time I remember, I was the first girl to have a crush on him.

Star:

[v.o] Well, I...

Jackie:

[v.o] And I was his first crush AND his first kiss.

Star:

[v.o] Yeah I know, but...

Hekapoo:

[v.o] And I’m the one who took away his virginity...

Star:

[v.o] Okay, fine, I may not be the first crush, or the first time, or whatever… but one thing is for sure: Right now, I’m Marco’s most important person in the world.

Janna:

[v.o] Oh please, you don’t even who what things he likes to eat.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] And just because he spends more time with you than the rest of us doesn’t mean he’s gonna fall for you just like that. Relationships are WAY more complicated than that.

Jackie:

[v.o] Sounds like you know a lot about relationships.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Dude, I’m like 700 years old. Do you have any idea of how many relationships I’ve been before this one? You wouldn’t believe the things love can do to some people.

Jackie:

[v.o] Mmmm… You know: I think I can get an idea of what you’re talking about.

Star: ...I can’t believe you would be capable to do such thing. I thought you were my friend...

Janna: Cry me a river. The only reason I pretended to be your friend is to get closer to Marco.

Star: Well, no wonder why he considered you nothing but a creep.

Janna: And what makes you so high and mighty? You treat Marco like a servant half of the time. It’s obvious that he prefers to be with someone else, but you keep getting on his way because you’re a control freak and a complete sociopath.

Star: Mind your words Janna. Remember that I have the wand.

Janna: [sarcastic tone] Oh, the wand. I’m soooo scared, I mean what are you gonna do? turn my arm into tentacle monster?

Marco: Uhm, girls?

Star: Maybe I will turn you into a narwhal so I can blast you against the wall over and over. What do you say about that?

Marco: Uhm, girls?

Janna: Bring it on blondie. I’m not afraid of you, or your cute little toys.

Marco: Girls, please. We can talk talk about this...

Star: I’ll give you toys. [holds the wand]

[Star and Janna aggressively stare at each other while Jackie just watches concerned and Marco tries to prevent a brawl]

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Wow, no wonder why Marco ran away from you in the first place... 

Janna:

[v.o] And what exactly are you implying with that comment?

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Nothing. I’m just saying that maybe, JUST MAYBE, you’re taking things to the extreme when Marco only wants peace and quiet. That’s why we went to my dimension in the first place.

Hekapoo: Now who could it be at this hour? I swear if it’s you once again Rhombulus, I’m gonna rip apart your… [she opens the door and sees Marco] Marco? Oh, what a surprise...

Marco: Hi Hekapoo. How are you?

Hekapoo: Uhm, fine… I mean, it’s been kinda boring since you left, but… It’s cool. What brings you here?

Marco: Long story. I just needed a place to calm down for a moment.

Hekapoo: Troubles in paradise?

Marco: Something like that... [beat]

Hekapoo: Well, come on in and have a sit. I’ll bring you something to drink.

Marco: You don’t need to bother. I’m just...

Hekapoo: Nonsense, you’re my guest and I’ll attend you whether you like it or not. [looks for something to drink]

(...)

Hekapoo: Did you... have a fight with Star?

Marco: Something like that. Let’s just say we’re not on the best of terms right now.

Hekapoo: [raising an eyebrow and smiling] Oh, Really?

Marco: I’m sorry, I can’t go into any more details. It’s too complicated to explain and...

Hekapoo: It’s okay. You can stay at my place as long as you want. At least until things calm down back home.

Marco: Do you remember that time passes differently on your dimension, right? 

Hekapoo: Of course I do you silly human, my point is: Mi casa es su casa.

Marco: It is very kind of you, but I think I should be going...

Hekapoo: Wait… I mean, it’s been awhile since our last encounter and… I was hoping that we could catch up. Earth isn’t going anywhere after all.

Marco: Mmmm… I guess I can stay here for a couple of days if you don’t mind.

Hekapoo: That’s great. Come here, I’ll take you to your room.

[she grabs Marco’s hand and takes him to a giant room with a king-sized bed]

Star:

[v.o] Unbelievable... You literally seduced Marco to get your way. I guess we all know who’s the cheater now, right Janna?

Janna:

[v.o] Actually, I want to know how does it feel to have sex on that giant bed, I mean, look at the size of that thing 

Star:

[v.o] Janna...

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Oh, that’s nothing compared to the bed of Queen Moon, now that’s a monster-sized bed, so you can get an idea of how much fun the Queen has on that...

Star:

[v.o] WE DON’T WANNA HEAR ABOUT IT!!!

Janna:

[v.o] More like YOU don’t wanna hear about it. So tell us Hekapoo: Is there any juicy stories regarding the king and queen? 

Hekapoo:

[v.o] There’s too many to count, like there was this one time when king River...

Star:

[v.o] LALALALALA!!! I CAN’T HEAR YOU!!! I CAN’T HEAR YOU!!!

Janna:

[v.o] Jeez Star. Sometimes you can so immature...

Star:

[v.o] I couldn’t care less of what you think about me.

Janna:

[v.o] Mmmm… It’s funny you should say that, because last time... 

Janna: Sure, keep making noise babyface. You sure are gonna win if you cry harder.

Star: [breaking glass sound] What did you just said to me?

Janna: I said: Keep making noise baby...

[before she can finish Star tackles Janna and they start a fight, but Jackie once again gets in between and attempts to stop them]

Jackie: Come on girls please... fighting each other won’t solve anything. It will makes things worse.

Janna: You’re right. We should let Marco decide once and for all and finish this nonsense...

Star: I agree. So Marco, which one of us do you like...? [she notices that Marco is missing] Marco? Where did he go?

Janna: Maybe he ran away from you and your childish behaviour your majesty...

Jackie: Janna...

Star: Well at least I’m a member of the royalty. You, on the other hand are just a sad, strange little girl who steals wallets to get attention. How pathetic.

Jackie: Star...

Janna: Say it again to my face, your royal pain.

Star: I’ll be glad...

Star:

[v.o] Well, that was because you were getting on my nerves. Everyone who knows me personally would tell you that I’m a very calm and polite person, right Jackie?

Jackie:

[v.o] Uhm… yeah sure… I… guess that you’re… Eh...

Star:

[v.o] Ugh, why all of a sudden everyone is against me?

Hekapoo:

[v.o] No one is actually against you princess. You’re just overreacting.

Star:

[v.o] Well excuse me for trying to defend myself.

Jackie:

[v.o] Well, with all due respect: You can be a little bit aggressive sometimes, especially when it comes to Marco...

[All the girls give Marco a death glare as he gulps and takes a step back wearing a fearful expression on his face]

Marco: [thinking to himself] Oh God, I’m SO screwed. There’s no way I can’t get out of this one...

Star: I don’t even know you anymore.

Jackie: [crossing her arms] I agree. We’re very disappointed of you right now.

Janna: So, what do you have to say in your defense loverboy?

Marco: [shivering] Girls, there’s no need to do something crazy.

Star: [raising her wand] You haven’t seen crazy yet.

Marco: Please, just listen to me: It’s not that I didn’t enjoy all this time with all of you...

Janna: Oh, we all know that you did it, you womanizing bastard.

[The girls surround Marco while he just takes a deep breath and prepares to get punished by them]

Star:

[v.o] Okay, I see where you’re going, but hey: At least I’m trying to be better every day.

Jackie:

[v.o] And that’s great, it’s good that you recognize your mistakes and trying to do something about it, but… ehm...

Janna:

[v.o] Maybe you don’t try hard enough...

Jackie:

[v.o] That’s not what I meant at all. It’s just that… Marco has the right to know what you think if you’re gonna be in a relationship with him. You can’t just let him guess. It’s basic communication.

Star:

[v.o] Yeah, that makes sense. I guess I could be more open about my feelings.

Jackie:

[v.o] That’s the spirit.

Janna:

[v.o] Yeah, too bad that she didn’t learned that lesson earlier when Marco ran away from us AGAIN after that weird missile incident... 

[Star flies towards the missile, grabs it and attempts to slow it down using the flutter of her wings, but it’s too heavy for her to handle]

Janna: That’s it, we’re doomed.

[everyone close their eyes waiting for the end, but the missile just lands and gets buried in the ground without exploding in a very anticlimactic way]

Marco: [opening his eyes] Are we… still alive?

Jackie: Apparently, but how?

Marco: Star, are you okay? [he helps Star to get down from the missile]

Star: [turning back to normal] I’m fine, but… what just happened?

[Janna gets closer to the missile and takes a look to it]

Marco: I’m not sure, but we need to get out here. This thing could still explode if we...

[Janna kicks the missile twice]

Marco: [to Janna] WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?!!!

Janna: Don’t panic safety kid. The missile is hollow.

Jackie: Really? [she also kicks it] Hey, you’re right.

Star: But I don’t understand: Why would anyone launch a weapon that doesn’t even work?

Janna: Tell that to Pyongyang’s government.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Yeah I agree. What was that all about?

Star:

[v.o] I have no idea, but look at the bright side: At least they built a carnival at Echo Creek’s pier right afterwards...

Jackie:

[v.o] Oh yeah, I was about to say that. You know, that reminds me when I was a kid and my mom used to take me to Wonderland Park on summer vacation...

Star:

[v.o] Wonderland Park?

Jackie:

[v.o] It’s an amusement park located in Thompson Memorial Park which is in Amarillo, Texas. I think you would love the place, it has 4 rollercoasters and 5 water rides.

Star:

[v.o] That sounds like fun. Can we go next time?

Jackie:

[v.o] Sure, we can all  take a break one of these days. What do you think?

Janna:

[v.o] It sounds good enough for me...

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Yeah, why not. I’m sure I can clear my schedule for an Earth day.

Star:

[v.o] Now we just have to ask Marco if he want to join us...

Jackie:

[v.o] Of course he will. It’s just one day after all...

Janna:

[v.o] Are you sure about that? I mean, remember when that punk Jeremy tortured him the entire evening while we were looking for him?

[Cut to Marco and Jeremy at the bumper cars facing each other. Jeremy looks much more confident than Marco, who tries to keep his composure]

Jeremy: What’s the matter? Feeling a little under the weather already?

Marco: Yeah, you wish.

Jeremy: You know, you still got time to walk out of this and avoid the public humiliation. Just sayin’.

Marco: Oh, so now all of a sudden you act compassionate, huh? What a hypocrite.

Jeremy: Don’t say I didn’t warn you...

Marco: [mocking voice] “Don’t say I didn’t warn you” I’ll show you how to...

[Jeremy bumps Marco against the wall without any warning. Marco already starts feeling sick]

Marco: That’s not fair, I wasn’t ready.

Jeremy: Welcome to the real world honey...

Marco: [feeling dizzy] You’ll see...

[Marco tries to bump Jeremy, but feels too sick to focus and gets bumped as a result]

Jeremy: So, what do you think about my driving skills? Not bad for a three times regional champion in Mario Kart 8, huh?

[Marco is too sick to pay attention to him]

Jeremy: Hey, I’m talking to you. Pay attention!!!

[Jeremy bumps Marco once again and as a result, he throws up all across the floor, causing a malfunction]

Microphone voice: Ladies and gentleman, the operator speaking here… uhm, due a small inconvenience regarding the electric floor, it’s my duty to inform you that we’re gonna have to close for the rest of the evening. In the name of the staff, we’re sorry. Have a good night.

[Everyone starts booing both Marco and Jeremy]

Jeremy: [smiling] Ah, the sweet sound of public discontent. What’s not to love?

Marco: It’s official: This is the worst day of my life.

Star:

[v.o] Hey, how did you know about that particular moment?

Janna:

[v.o] Marco told me about it.

Star:

[v.o] Huh, I wonder why he didn’t told me first.

Janna:

[v.o] Do you even have conversations that doesn’t involve you?

Star:

[v.o] Of course we do… sometimes...

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Yeah, Marco may had a bit of a hard time at that particular evening, but don’t forget what happened after we found him...

Hekapoo: It’s all yours Princess Butterfly...

Star: I hope this works... [raises her wand] Vulgo Apertis Ianus!!!

[A giant wooden door appears on the wall, so they open it and walk through a long narrow hallway lightened by torches]

Marco: [thinking to himself] Well, this is it. The end of the line for me. Goodbye world, it was nice to meet you. Mother, Father: I hope one day you’ll understand and forgive me for what I... 

Star: Well, here we are.

[At the end of the hallway, they come across a giant door. Star opens it and they get inside a giant room with a pool sized bathtub some pillars around it and harp music to set the mood]

Marco: Star, what is this place?

Star: [closing the door] My parents private bathroom. This is where they come when they want to be alone and forget about their royal duties for a moment.

Hekapoo: Also, it’s one of the few places inside the castle that can’t be reached using dimensional scissors, so it’s safe to assume that no one will interrupt us...

Marco: But… I thought you were mad at me for what I did.

Jackie: Although we’re still a bit upset for the way you handled the situation... 

Janna: We talked about it came to the conclusion that... punish you it’s not exactly the best solution.

[They all stripped down to nothing but their underwear as they speak. Marco blushes and feels his heart beating faster as a result]

Hekapoo: Besides: We assume that part of this problem was our fault too. We got too competitive with each other and put you on a very difficult situation.

Star: So bottom line: We’ll allow you to keep things the way they are...

Everyone: If you can take care or all of us.

Hekapoo: So what do you say fleshwad? Will you accept the challenge?

[Marco closes his eyes and takes a deep breath]

Marco: Alright, let’s do this.

Star:

[v.o] You know, I have a funny feeling now that I remember that particular moment. Did anybody else feel the same? 

Jackie:

[v.o] I know what you mean Star… [whispering] I’m feeling it too hehehe...

Janna:

[v.o] Sure that’s a moment it’s worth remembering. Marco was such a beast that one time...

Hekapoo:

[v.o] And could you believe he didn’t hold back at any minute, it was like… damn...

Star:

[v.o] Just by talking about it gets me excited. Can we take another break? I think I need some time to cool down just a bit.

Janna:

[v.o] Yeah, I agree with that. I need at least ten minutes off to get the picture out of my head...

Jackie:

[v.o] Anybody wants to go to the Stop & Slurp down the street? This time the Slurpees are on me...

Star:

[v.o] Sure. I want a moonshine with extra ice.

Janna:

[v.o] Pink fink for me please.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] No thanks. I’ll take a diet coke.

Jackie:

[v.o] As you wish...

ACT III

Jackie:

[v.o] ...and my first time on a rollercoaster: Oh boy, it was one heck of a experience like… I literally thought that it was going to get off the rails at any minute, but again, I was too young to know any better. Nowadays I take at least one ride every time I visit an amusement park. 

Star:

[v.o] Yeah, I know what you mean. When I was a kid I was afraid of horses because I thought they were going to eat me. Now, it may sound silly to you, but you have to consider that on my dimension, some wild horses like to eat people. Especially warnicorns.

Jackie:

[v.o] But, didn’t your family had a stable full of warnicorns?

Star:

[v.o] Oh yeah, you’re right. Come to think of it: I never saw anyone trying to ride a warnicorn.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Warnicorn trainers are just too rare and expensive. That’s why we only use them in times of war, hence the term “warnicorn”

Janna:

[v.o] Makes sense to me.

Jackie:

[v.o] Yeah, me too.

Star:

[v.o] And what about you girls? Any traumatic experiences to share with us?

Janna:

[v.o] Well, believe it or not, I used to be scared of vaccinations.

Star:

[v.o] Really?

Janna:

[v.o] Yeah, it all started when I was in first grade. We were getting in line to receive a tetanus shot, which it wasn’t really that bad, but the fact that the nurse that gave us the vaccine looked like she escaped from a mental institution or something.

Jackie:

[v.o] Oh yeah, I remember that nurse, with that raspy voice and those yellow teeth.

Janna:

[v.o] Don’t forget her eye patch.

Jackie:

[v.o] Yeah, I used to be scared of her too. 

Janna:

[v.o] I know right? even Ferguson peed his pants the first time she came to our school.

Jackie:

[v.o] Yeah, but: Who can blame him? That woman was scary.

Star:

[v.o] I think I can get the picture. And what about you Hekapoo? Do you have any freaky stories to share with us?

Hekapoo:

[v.o] I don’t know. It happened a long time ago and...

Star:

[v.o] Please, don’t be shy.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] It’s not about being shy. It’s just that… there are certain things about my job that I prefer to keep it to myself, and trust me: You don’t wanna know about them.

Star:

[v.o] Yes I do. Come on, at least give us a clue.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] I said no. Besides, it’s time to continue where we left.

Janna:

[v.o] oh, you mean that time when we went to the beach?

[The girls take off their clothes to reveal their swimsuits. Star and Jackie wear regular bikinis, Janna wears a skirted bottom bikini and Hekapoo wears a black slingshot swimsuit that accentuates her figure]

Janna: [to Hekapoo] You know, I kinda like your swimsuit.

Hekapoo: Thanks. I bought it a long time ago, but I’ve never had the chance to use it.

Janna: I’m sure Marco must be enjoying the look, am I right Marco?

[She notices that Marco is sleeping on the sand]

Star: [to Jackie] Do you think this bikini makes me look too thin? because at first I was thinking to wear a one piece swimsuit, but then I thought: “this makes me look fat” so I’m not really sure if it was the best decision. What do you say?

Jackie: I think you would look great regardless of the choice. Trust me, you look amazing.

Star: Yeah, easy for you to say. You have a fantastic body and your bikini matches your hairstyle. What is your secret?

Jackie: I don’t really think about it that much, I just wear whatever I like depending on the occasion. You need to learn to be more confident.

Star: But I am confident. I just don’t know exactly what I want.

Jackie: Just be yourself Star. Then you’ll see the results speak for themselves. [gives Star a pat on the back]

Janna: [to Star and Jackie] Hey lovebirds: You wanna join us on a Volleyball match?

Star: Great idea, maybe we could ask Marco if he wanna play too.

[Meanwhile, Marco is still sleeping on the sand]

Janna: I wouldn’t count on it.

Star:

[v.o] Oh yeah, I remember that. We looked super cute in our swimsuits. Do you think we can go back one of these days? because I just bought a new bikini that will make Marco drop his jaw.

Jackie:

[v.o] Uh, sounds like you got your confidence back. I’m glad to hear that.

Janna:

[v.o] Sure. We can have another match of volleyball. I’ve been perfecting my technique so you better watch out.

Star:

[v.o] Oh, don’t get your hopes too high Janna Banana. It turns out that I’ve been practicing too, so you’re not gonna caught me by surprise this time.

Janna:

[v.o] We’ll see about that.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Mmmm… Another trip to the beach? Yeah, why not? Just don’t let Star bring the refreshments again, I mean remember what happened last time?

Star: Well, how about a rematch? This time we’ll have Marco to be our referee

Janna: Fair enough. [shakes hands with Star] We’ll settle this argument once and for all...

Jackie: Girls, come on… save your energy for tomorrow’s game.

Marco: [bringing the cooler] Jackie’s right. Now it’s time to relax and enjoy a cold, sweet, refreshing...

[Marco opens the cooler and reveals that is full of beer]

Marco: ...Soda.

Hekapoo: Hey, what’s going on here? Why is the cooler full of beer?

Janna: I don’t know. Star was the one in charge of the snacks and the refreshments.

Jackie: Star, what happened?

Star: Well, you see: I was packing all the food and snacks and… it turns out it might took me longer that I expected, so...

Marco: So?

Star: I asked Pony Head to get the refreshments for me. I’m sorry. 

Marco: Now, that’s just great. Now we have enough beer to serve at a frat party in California...

Jackie: Oh, come on Marco. It’s not so bad.

Marco: What? Are you a drinker?

Jackie: Well, not exactly, but...

Star: Oh girls, It’s all my fault. I should have been more responsible.

Hekapoo: Well, you can still go to the store and buy some soda.

Star: I will. I just need to get the cooler...

Marco: I’ll take care of it, hold on...

Star:

[v.o] [sigh] How many times do we need to revisit my mistakes? Yeah, I get it. I shouldn’t let Pony Head do my job. Can we talk about something else? 

Janna:

[v.o] I know. How about the time when you and I went to buy soda at the store?

Star:

[v.o] Oh no please, anything but that...

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Actually, I wanna hear about it.

Jackie:

[v.o] Sounds like you have something interesting to tell us.

Star:

[v.o] No she doesn’t, now please let’s just move along and continue with... 

Janna:

[v.o] It all started when we enter to the store.

Star:

[v.o] Oh, dang it, here it comes...

[Cut to Star and Janna inside the store at midnight. They get in line to buy the drinks and Star gets distracted watching the fluorescent lights]

Star:

What’s the deal with those glowing sticks at the ceiling? They’re so... bright.

Janna:

[carrying the cooler] Uhm, those are called fluorescent lights, and if I were you I wouldn’t stare at them for so long.

Star:

But they’re so shiny, there’s something about those lights that makes me wanna… touch them. 

Janna:

[getting in front the register] Yeah whatever, just don’t fool around while I’ll buy the drinks.

[Star is too distracted with the lights to pay attention to Janna]

Janna:

[talking to the cashier] Hi, I want to fill this cooler with soda. I think it has a capacity of 50 bottles or something...

Cashier:

[taking the cooler] I’ll be back in a minute...

[Cut to Star staring at the lights]

Star:

[thinking to herself] I know I shouldn’t but… what if...

[Star transforms into her mewberty self and flies towards the lights. Cut to the cashier returning with the cooler]

Cashier:

There you go ma’am. That will be $89.5.

Janna:

Do you take credit cards?

Cashier:

Sure.

[Janna uses a credit card to pay for the soda. Meanwhile Star keeps flying around the light]

Cashier:

Thank you for your buying.

Random person:

What the heck is that thing?!!!

[Everyone at the store freak out when they see Star in her Mewberty form and run away in sheer panic. Janna quickly notices this as she looks up]

Janna:

Star, what are you doing? Get down this instant.

[Star is too distracted to listen to her]

Star:

I can see the light inside me...

Janna:

Star, don’t even think about touching those...

[Star tries to fly inside the lights and crashes them and gets electrocuted. Cut to Star and Janna getting boot out from the store along with cooler]

Cashier:

And don’t you EVER come back to this store again, you hear me? [shuts the door]

[Cut back to present]

Hekapoo:

[v.o] [laughs] Oh my God, I can’t believe you actually do that.

Star:

[v.o] It wasn’t my fault. It should it be illegal to have those lights hanging there in a public place like that. At the very least they should put a warning sign, I don’t know...

Janna:

[v.o] Well, one thing’s for sure: Never take Star to buy something at midnight.

Star:

[v.o] Oh, shut up Janna...

Jackie:

[v.o] You know, that reminds me when Marco almost drowns himself when he took a dive to the ocean while chasing those dolphins...

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Yeah, I remember that too.

Jackie: What is Marco doing?

[The girls turn around and see Marco drowning while trying to reach the dolphins]

Star: MARCO!!!

[They quickly stand up and run to the shore to see where he is]

Janna: We gotta take him out before he goes underwater… Hekapoo, can you open a portal to reach him?

Hekapoo: I can’t open a portal underwater, especially now that my powers are low.

Star: Wait, I got it: I’ll use my wand to levitate him back to the shore.

Janna: Great idea.

Star: Now, where do I left my wand? [she checks her backpack, but can’t find it] Hold on, there’s gotta be somewhere… Oh, come on...

Hekapoo: Look...

[Marco finally drowns. Star keeps checking her backpack while Jackie quickly jumps into the water to rescue him. She goes underwater and find Marco unconscious, so she grabs his arm and swim back to the shore]

Star: Is he okay?

Hekapoo: I’ll check him out.

[Hekapoo lends her ear over Marco’s chest and checks his pulse to see if he’s okay]

Hekapoo: At least he’s still breathing, but we need to give him mouth to mouth quickly... 

Star: Let me take care of it.

[Star gives Marco mouth to mouth and notices something strange]

Janna: What’s wrong?

Star: There’s something odd about Marco’s breath… like he’s been drinking booze or something...  

[Janna notices a can of beer on the shore and picks it up]

Janna: I think you might be right on this… look...

[Janna shows them the can of beer. In that moment Marco wakes up, vomits and falls unconscious again]

Janna: Just as I suspected. He’s totally drunk.

Jackie:

[v.o] I’m pretty sure none of us saw that coming.

Janna:

[v.o] You can say that again.

Star:

[v.o] Yeah, I know that Marco is the type of person who likes to take risks and all, but that was just crazy, and trust me: I’ve seen a lot of crazy thing in my life to compare.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] And considering that Star’s crazy ex-boyfriend is now after Marco, I have the feeling that things will get much worse from now on.

Jackie:

[v.o] Hekapoo is right. We’re gonna have to be more careful from now on if we want to protect him...

Star:

[v.o] Don’t worry about Tom. I can deal with him if it’s necessary. just like when we save Marco from him that one time:

Tom: Oh, so you’re saying this is all my fault...

Marco: Well duh, you’re the one who’s creating the problem.

Tom: Excuse me, but if I recall correctly, you’re the one who ruined my chance with Star at the Blood Moon Ball, remember?

Marco: Okay, I’m sorry if I ruined your big night and all, but… get over it. It’s just a stupid dance.

Tom: [getting angry] IT WAS IMPORTANT TO ME!!!

[Marco gets scared as he sees the flames coming out of Tom]

Tom: Now, I gonna make you mine, whether you like it or not...

Star: [o.s] MEGA NARWHAL BLAST!!!

[Tom gets blasted by the narwhals and the camera shows Star and the girls just in time to save Marco]

Marco: Star, quick… help me with these chains.

[Star uses her wand to break the chains and free Marco]

Star: [hugging Marco] Are you okay? He didn’t hurt you, did he?

Marco: I’m okay. Fortunately, I was able to distract him long enough.

Tom: [levitating] So, you think you can get in between Marco and me?

Star: [pointing at Tom with her wand] Don’t make me blast your ass.

Tom: Come on Star, be reasonable. Just let me have Marco back and no one will get hurt.

Star: Over my dead body.

[Tom watches Star for a few seconds, until he calms down and get back to the floor]

Tom: [sigh] Fine. You can go now.

Marco: Really? Come on, let’s get out of here...

Tom: But don’t you even think that I’m gonna give up so easily, so remember this Marco Diaz: I don’t know how, when or where, but one day [demonic voice] I’m gonna make you mine.

[Marco gets nervous and gulps out of fear]

Star: Sheesh, what a whiny little bitch...

Janna:

[v.o] Yeah, we all know that you are capable to deal with Tom and all, but… you said it yourself: He’s unpredictable.

Jackie:

[v.o] Yeah, for all we know he’s probably watching us right now. You’re still gonna need some some reinforcements in case of an ambush.

Star:

[v.o] Good point. I guess I can let you stick around. Just in case.

Janna:

[v.o] Sure... “just in case”

Star:

[v.o] Don’t underestimate my powers Janna. There are certain things about me that you don’t know.

Janna:

[v.o] Like what? That you’re over sensitive to fluorescent lights?

Star:

[v.o] Okay, that’s it. Come over here Janna Banana. This is the last time you will make another joke at my expense.

Janna:

[v.o] Oh no, I’m not gonna come over there. I’ve already learned that lesson.

Star:

[v.o] What lesson? Just come over here and fight me.

Janna:

[v.o] No Star...

Star:

[v.o] What? What is this? Why don’t you fight me?

Jackie:

[v.o] Okay, cut it out Star. It’s over.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Yeah, please stop acting like a child. It’s getting old.

Star:

[v.o] Do you... really think I’m being childish?

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Mmmm… How can I put it?

[Star approaches Marco and Hekapoo with an angry expression]

Hekapoo: How’s it going princess Butterfly? I must say I like your new look, it’s very...

[Star uses her wand to mess up Hekapoo’s dress with slime. Everyone at the dancefloor notice it and stop dancing for a moment. The music also stops]

Hekapoo: My new dress, you ruined it!!!

Marco: Star, what is wrong with you?

Star: What is wrong?!!! I’ll tell you what is wrong: This big fat meanie tricked me using a contract to have you all by herself. That’s why she’s been taking you so often to her dimension.

[Jackie and Janna arrive, but it's too late to stop the fight]

Jackie: Oh no, this is what I was afraid of.

Hekapoo: [to Star] Oh excuse me, but it’s not my fault you’re so reckless and irresponsible to that you sign a legal document without even reading it. 

Star: Oh please, as if you didn’t know this was going to happen.

Hekapoo: So... you’re admitting that it was your fault?

Star: Yes, I mean… No… It’s just… look, just stay away from Marco, he’s not your personal toy that you can use whenever you want.

Hekapoo: Mmmm, funny how you talk about me using Marco as an object, when you do the exact same thing...

Star: You don’t even know what you’re talking about. Marco likes to do things for me because we’re friends.

Hekapoo: That’s cute and all, but… when was the last time you had to sacrifice something for him? and I mean something REALLY important.

Star: Don’t try to make me look like the bad guy here.

Hekapoo: Stop being so entitled and maybe I will...

[Marco tries to stop the fight and gets in between]

Marco: Okay girls, there’s no need to make a scene out of this… [whispering] specially when we’re in public...

Hekapoo: [to Star] I can’t believe how ungrateful you’re acting, especially considering what I had to do to fix your precious little wand...

Star: [screaming] To heck with your help!!!

Star:

[v.o] But I… It’s just that… Well… Uhm… [sigh] what’s the point? You’re right. I’m just being like a child, you got me.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Well I got news for you sweetie: No one will take you seriously if you’re keep pulling this bullshit. So do us all a favor and try to be a good sport, will ya?

Star:

[v.o] Whatever...

Jackie:

[v.o] Well, look at the time. Show’s almost over and yet we didn’t covered a lot of other important plot points that...

Janna:

[v.o] Just forget about it Jackie. We’re going home now. 

Star:

[v.o] Yeah, I just can’t take it anymore. All this recap it’s giving me a headache.

Hekapoo:

[v.o] Besides, I don’t know you, but I have work to do in the morning, so… See you girls later.

Janna:

[v.o] Bye bye...

Star:

[v.o] Hasta la vista...

[Star, Janna and Hekapoo leave the scene]

Jackie:

[v.o] Uhm, yeah… sure. See you later… I guess… Uhm, don’t forget to tune next week for another episode of… [sigh] Who am I kidding? this is f***ing stupid.

[Jackie leaves the scene and the screen cuts to black]

MARCO VS. THE FORCES OF LOVE - EPISODE 8: AMARILLO...

[snappedsky]

Fanatics 64

It's Devi's birthday, so Nny, Squee, Tenna, the Night Terrors, and Serena throw her a surprise party. What could go wrong?? Previous! Next!

Devi’s Birthday

           Devi’s apartment is bustling with activity. There are streamers hanging off the walls, balloons floating against the ceiling, and the smell of baking wafting through the air. Johnny, Squee, Tenna, Mr. Fuck, Psycho Doughboy, Reverend Meat, Sickness, and Serena are busy setting everything up for a surprise party.

           “Okay,” Tenna booms, “I’m gonna go pick up Devi from the bus stop. You guys finish everything up. Somebody watch the parking lot for when we arrive and get ready to jump out and shout ‘surprise’.”            “Anything to get out of work,” Reverend Meat salutes before going over to the window.

           “Devi’s been really stressed lately so this has to go perfectly,” Tenna orders, “Squee, you’re in charge.”            “We won’t let you down,” Squee says.

           “Wanna bet?” Johnny mutters.

           “Alright, I’ll be back,” Tenna chimes before disappearing out the door.

           Everyone quickly gets back to work to finish the party. Serena and Sickness mix drinks while the Doughboys argue over what music to play and Squee makes up the icing. Johnny leans against the counter next to him.

           “Is this even a good idea? Devi’s not really the partying type,” Johnny points out, “maybe she just wants to relax alone.”

           “She needs to loosen up,” Serena argues, “and what better way to loosen up then getting drunk with your friends to loud music.”

           “I can think of some ways,” he mumbles.

           “You know, you need to loosen up too,” she says and hands him a shot of vodka. “Drink this.”

           “Sorry, but I don’t accept drinks from vampires,” he grunts.

           “Suit yourself,” she shrugs and downs the shot.

           “Come on, Nny, this is for Devi,” Squee says, “I think she’ll love it not for the party itself, but for the effort we put into it.”            “If you say so,” Johnny mutters.

           Squee smiles. “Wanna help me ice the cake?”            Johnny sighs. “Yeah.”            Squee takes the chocolate cake out of the oven and they get to work icing it.

           Meanwhile, a few blocks away, Devi gets off a bus at the bus stop. She sighs wearily and rolls her neck.

           She’s hardly surprised when she suddenly hears loud squealing. She smiles weakly as Tenna glomps her, squeezing her tight.

           “Happy birthday, D!” she cheers.

           “Thanks, Ten,” Devi sighs.

           Tenna lets her go and they start walking away together.

           “So, how’s the family?” Tenna asks.

           “Oh, you know, the usual,” Devi replies, “my mom’s nosy, my sister’s annoying. Dad is the only one who’s bearable. He got me some nice paintbrushes.”

           “Aw, that’s nice,” she coos.

           “So what do you have planned for me?” Devi asks.

           “What? Planned? Nothing!” Tenna scoffs.

           “Uh huh,” she nods, unconvinced.

           “Come on, I would never plan something behind your back.”            “Yes, you would. You do all the time.”            Tenna just laughs it off and ends the conversation. She’s sure Devi will appreciate the party as long as everything goes perfectly. And she made sure it was set up perfectly. Now she just has to trust the others will behave themselves until they get back.

           They’ll be back in fine minutes. How much can go wrong?            Back at Devi’s apartment, everything is going smoothly. The cake is iced and ready, the drinks are mixed, and the Doughboys even agreed on what music to play. It’s almost unbelievable how perfect everything is.

           Reverend Meat perks up and turns away from the window. “Hey, Squee, Zim is coming in.”            “Ah, he’s here with the fireworks,” Squee says and hurries to the door. He opens it and watches down the hall.

           “Fireworks?” Johnny questions.            

           “Tenna’s idea,” he states, “so I got Zim to hook us up.”

           “Why not just buy fireworks from the store?” he asks.

           “Because Irken fireworks are ten times better than anything humans can produce,” Zim replies as he comes down the hall. He’s carrying a metal crate.

           “Thanks a bunch, Zim,” Squee replies as he takes the crate. As soon as Zim lets go, it becomes way too heavy. Squee nearly drops it but Nny quickly takes it.

           “No problem, Squee,” Zim shrugs, “let me show you how it works.”

           He opens up the crate and takes out a firework. It looks just like an Earth firework but with a very short wick. “These don’t require a wick to be lit. All you gotta do is tug this string here and throw it up in the air. It’ll fly up and explode in a matter of seconds.”

           “Cool,” Squee comments.

           “So what makes these fireworks so much better than human fireworks?” Johnny asks.

           “Bigger, brighter, and they can make shapes,” Zim replies, “I designed these ones per Squee’s specifications. They’ll spell out ‘Happy Birthday, Devi’.”

           Johnny nods, impressed. “Okay, that’s pretty cool.”            “If they work,” Eff scoffs as he pokes over Nny’s shoulder.

           “Don’t doubt me,” Zim growls.

           “We don’t doubt you, Zim,” Squee says quickly. “Thanks again for your help.”

           “Any time, Squee,” he waves as he turns to leave. “See you later.”

           “Bye,” Squee waves back and goes into the apartment.

           Johnny rests the fireworks on the table next to the drinks. Everyone immediately peeks inside to get a look at them.

           “Are these really gonna work?” D-boy asks as he picks one up and flicks the pull cord.

           “Yes,” Squee snaps as he knocks it out of his hand. “Don’t play with them. We can’t set them off until tonight.”

           Everybody lifts their hands in surrender and steps back. Squee eyes them suspiciously before heading back to the kitchen. “Nny, wanna help with the candles?”            “Yeah, alright,” he nods before following him. But the Night Terrors stay crowded around the fireworks.

           “Are these really supposed to work?” Eff asks sceptically.

           “That would suck if they didn’t,” Sickness says, “then what would we do for our big finale?”            “Should we test them out?” D-boy asks.

           “Squee said not to,” Reverend Meat points out.

           “Would you guys relax?” Serena scoffs, “you’re supposed to be watching for Devi.”

           “We’re just trying to think about what’s best for her party,” Eff points out as he grabs a firework. “It’s her birthday after all. It has to be perfect.”

           “Like any of you care,” Serena grunts.

           “I do,” Sickness insists, “Devi’s my favourite.”            “This drawstring is supposed to set it off right?” D-boy asks as he grabs the string on Eff’s firework.

           “Wait!” the others cry but it’s too late. The string comes off in D-boy’s hand.

           “Whoops,” he squeaks.

           Everyone looks at the firework fearfully but nothing happens.

           “Ha, see?” Eff scoffs, “it really doesn’t wo-.”

           Before he can finish, the firework explodes in his hand, knocking everyone off their feet and lighting the room up in colourful sparks spelling out ‘Happy Birthday Devi’.

           Johnny and Squee nearly leap out of their skins and spin around at the explosion. They watch with mouths agape as the firework dissipates and the sparks fall.

           “Are you guys insa-!” Squee starts to exclaim before the falling sparks catch the streamers on fire.

           Nny and Squee scream with surprise. Nny quickly fills a jug of water and they race into the living room to try and douse the flames.

           Serena sits up, groaning. Other than some minor burns marks she’s okay. She half notices Johnny and Squee throwing water at the burning streamers but what takes her full notice are the sparks falling into the two dozen shot glasses of alcohol on the table in front of her. They light up immediately.

           Serena shouts with surprise, jumping back. She grabs Eff’s shoulder, who’s lying beside her, and shakes him.

           “Guys, get up! We gotta do something!” she exclaims.

           The Night Terrors sit up, groaning. Before they notice the cups of burning alcohol before them, they see Eff lift his hand only to find it covered in blood.

           They all exclaim in shock and jump to their feet, but Reverend Meat accidently bumps the table, knocking it over. The glasses of alcohol tip onto the floor and the flames start spreading on the carpet. Everybody screams fearfully.

           “Aaaaahhh what do we do!?” Squee cries.

           Johnny quickly races into Devi’s bedroom and grabs the blanket off her bed. He throws it over the flames and then pushes Reverend Meat over on top of it for extra weight. Smoke blows out from under the blanket as the fire goes out.      

           Everyone pants with exhilaration before sighing loudly with relief and lying down next to Reverend Meat. They breathe heavily like they just ran a marathon.

           “Man, these smoke detectors are garbage,” Squee comments.

           “Guys, my hand really fucking hurts,” Eff says.

           A couple minutes later, Devi and Tenna stride up to Devi’s apartment. They slow to a stop when they see Johnny standing outside the door.

           “Johnny, what are you doing here?” Devi asks with confusion.

           “Yeah, Johnny, what are you doing here?” Tenna asks, annoyed.

           “Squee thought I should give you a warning before you go inside,” Johnny replies, “I thought we should just run away and disappear forever but…”            “Wait, a warning for what?” Devi questions.

           “Well, we tried to throw you a surprise party,” he explains, “and we had some…problems…”            “What?” the girls exclaim.

           “What kind of problems?” Devi asks suspiciously.

           Johnny searches for the right words, but when he can’t think of any, he just silently opens the door.

           It reeks of smoke. In the middle of the floor, next to a knocked over table, is Devi’s blanket lying over what looks like broken glass and a large burned spot on her carpet. There are singed streamers and popped balloons all over the floor. Serena and the Night Terrors are all covered in minor burns, and Squee is carefully bandaging Eff’s right hand. Everybody flinches guiltily at the sight of Devi and Tenna.

           They stare at the sight, speechless and shocked, before Tenna groans and facepalms. “I was gone for ten minutes.”            “Okay, I know it looks bad,” Squee says quickly, “but uh o-on the bright side, the cake and most of the fireworks survived. So, you know, we can still have a decent party…just maybe not in here…”            Devi’s head is down, her expression hidden. Everyone watches her fearfully, waiting for the imminent freak out.          

           She snorts as a grin spreads across her face. Then to everyone’s surprise, she throws her head back in laughter. She guffaws and doubles over, wrapping her arms around her chest as her eyes start watering. Everyone just stares at her, bewildered.      

           “She’s so angry she’s gone mad,” D-boy comments.

           “Uh, Devi?” Tenna says gently, “you okay?”            Devi settles down to an uncontrollable snickering as she lifts her head. “You guys are a bunch of idiots.”            Everybody blinks with surprise, completely taken aback.

           Nny smiles softly. “Happy birthday, Devi.”            “Thanks, Nny,” she replies, smiling as she wipes her eyes.

           “Alright, let’s get this party started!” Tenna cheers.

           “The sun’s starting to set,” Squee says, “we can go up to the roof for cake and fireworks.”            Reverend Meat grabs the cake excitedly, licking his lips. Sickness quickly takes it away from him, scowling disapprovingly. Johnny picks up the box of fireworks and they all head up to roof.

           As the sun finishes setting, Devi blows out the candles on her birthday cake. Everybody cheers and Tenna and Serena give her a big hug.

           Eff and D-boy prepare to set off a firework but Squee quickly takes it from them. They groan with disappointment. Squee just grins as he tugs the cord and tosses it into the air.

           It shoots higher into the sky before exploding, lighting up the darkening sky with ‘Happy Birthday Devi’ in big, glowing letters.

           Devi stares up it in awe, her eyes shining.

           “I wanna do one next!” Tenna exclaims.

           “No, me!” Nny argues and they both race up to the box.

           “Come on, we didn’t get a turn,” Eff whines.

           “Yeah, you did. And we all saw what happened,” he points out.

           Devi watches them squabble, smiling warmly. Squee approaches her, carrying two plates with slices of cake on them. He hands one to her.

           “Thanks, Squee,” Devi says. They sit on the ground and eat their cake while their friends haphazardly shoot off fireworks in the night sky.

[magicxlimagines]

Tension // Neville x reader

@moshingtothesherlocktheme

Request: Hey!! If you get the chance, could you write a one shot for Neville Longbottom X Ravenclaw reader? Where it's clear to everyone around them that they like each other , but neither of them know it. (Like a Ron & Hermione dynamic) , loads of tension? Love your work!!

Thank you SO very much for requesting and appreciating my work lovely! I hope this has satisfied your needs :) I got a bit carried away and now this is quite long lol.

Note: You’re the same year as Neville, 6th year. You’re also Ravenclaw here, as specifically requested. This is unedited, so just bare with me until I edit this.

Word count: 1,672

Tuesday

Everyone but you and Neville. Everyone knew the two of you liked each other. All but the two of you knew you had feelings for each other, even Ron and Hermione, and they were oblivious about each other, which said something.

Today, your friends decided to attempt to set the two of you up. Julia, one of your Slytherin friends didn't talk to you as much as she usually would. Julia was a chatterbox, she was a social butterfly, talking to and befriending everyone she could. Today, you didn't spot her too much and when you did, she walked briskly towards someone else.

It confused you and as much as you wanted to brush it off, you really couldn't. The unknown reason was intriguing and challenging you to find out why her behaviour was the way it was.

You finally caught up with her but she only said a few words. "Y/N! There you are. Go to the library, I'll be there in a few minutes. I'm just going to the bathroom, I'll find you later."

She pushed you off towards the library as you (very confusedly) walked in. You saw her head the other way and out of the hallway so you decided to just listen and wait, and not find out. After all, she did say she'd go to look for you after she went toilet.

That was how you were in the library, reading your favourite book for what seemed to be the third time, fangirling over the cute couple. Sighing, you shut the book to let your thoughts run wild. If only you and Neville were like the couple in the book.

It had been 15 minutes and you thought, why isn't she here yet? The closest bathroom isn't too far away...

True to the traits of your house, you used a bit of paper, a quill and your unique cleverness to find out why she was taking so long. You calculated her route, toilet time and walking pace.

She should have been here 5 minutes ago...

Lost in your thoughts, a voice breaks you out of your spell. "Y/N?"

Neville was standing right in front of you. Looking upwards, you smile, trying not to freak out. "H-Hi Neville," you say, your voice cracking a bit from not speaking for a while. You mentally slap your forehead and wait for him to continue.

"Do you mind if I sit here?" Neville asks, starting to look elsewhere but your face. You nod quickly, pulling your books towards you and frantically looking for a new spot to put them. With shaking hands, you accidentally push over some books and you panic, knowing 1) you made a fool of yourself and 2) accidentally ruined some beautiful books.

Wordlessly, he bends down to help pick up some books for you. “I’m so sorry for the mess, I’ll just- um put these on the ground by me. Here, have a seat now,” you stutter.

He smiles without saying anything again and takes a seat in front of you. “So, how’s your day been so far?” Neville asks, playing with his hands. You blush, your face on fire as you start to forget about your friends mysterious lateness.

“It’s been good so far, thanks. Just been reading and walking around the grounds. All though… I am wondering, why are you here? N-not to be rude, but why?” Your curiosity takes a hold of you and before you know it, you say your thoughts out loud.

“Um, my friend told me to go to the library, actually. Muttered something about having to go off to the loo before meeting me here, though. I just saw you and thought m-maybe you wanted my company?”

You smile at him, thinking of how lucky your two fates were. “I very much enjoy your company, Neville. Thanks for coming by.” Suddenly, as the two of you share a comfortable silence, the puzzle pieces click together.

Julia had set you up! She wanted you to be at the library! And Neville’s friend must have set him up to come here!

Although there was still a lot of missing supporting evidence, it sounded pretty likely, being the very-connected-to-heaps-of-people kind of person Julia was. But why? She didn’t even know you liked Neville. At least, that you knew. You had never told anyone you liked Neville.

Just as you’re about to speak, Julia finally appears. “Oh! There you are, Y/N! I’ve been looking for you. Oh! And Neville! What a surprise. Didn’t know you two were having fun! I guess I’m just gonna, go, so like- bye!”

Just before Julia got the chance to disappear again, you stand up and grab hold of her bag, yanking her back. “Y/N! This bag is expensive!” You roll her eyes and let go.

“What’s up? Why were you so late? 20 minutes late, to be precise? You were only going toilet, and that doesn’t even take long, considering you walk fast, pee fast and the nearest toilet wasn’t that far away. What excuse do you have?”

Julia smirked. She knew her friend was going to be this curious, but Julia was already 3 big steps ahead.

After she explained, you squint your eyes for a second, but realize that what she said was most likely the truth. Forgetting about asking why she wanted to ‘talk’ to you, you give her a quick hug.

“Anyway- I gotta go, see you!” Julia hugs you back and runs away, going off to wherever she was going off to.

You sit back down, grinning. “Sorry, just caught up with Julia, as you just saw.”

“It’s no problem,” he smiles. “So, um, I should be seeing if my friend is here, so I guess I’ll just, um, go and quickly see if he’s here.”

When Neville excused himself and got up, you groaned and banged your head against the desk, making the heads of nearby people turn to look.

Why do I always ruin my chances with Neville?

Wednesday

Sitting alone (again) in the great hall, you push your food around, not having your usual appetite. Seeing this, Julia huffs and walks over from her table, sitting by you. “Y/N! Why isn’t Neville here?” She asks, looking around for him.

“He’s over there,” you mutter miserably, using your fork to point at Neville’s blushing face. He was so unaware that the girl he liked was looking at him.

Suddenly, Julia gets up. “Come on, Y/N. You only live once!”

“Hold on, did you just use a muggle phrase?”

She nods enthusiastically. “I’m doing great, aren’t I?” You roll your eyes and follow her to where she’s going. You realize that she’s getting closer and closer to Neville.

“Ohmygod! Julia stop!” You screech.

Julia stops, pulling an annoyed face at you. “What?!”

“Oh, I don’t know, the bewitched ceiling?! Neville, Julia, Neville! Neville is what’s going on! I can’t just go and sit by him, can I?”

“You can’t or you won’t?”

That stops you, making you think. Maybe she’s right. Plus, Neville and I are friends. He totally won’t suspect anything.

Looking around, you notice a few staring faces that luckily don’t include Neville’s. You blush and let go of Julia’s arm that you didn’t realize you were gripping. “Alright, I’ll go. Just to make you shut up, okay?”

She grins and gives you the thumbs up, sitting back at her table.

You take a seat by Neville and greet him and his friends. “Hi, Neville. Hermione, Ron, Harry,” you nod.

Hermione smiles. “Y/N! Good to see you. How’s your latest essay on Ancient Runes? I can’t seem to find the right way to explain-”

“Oh give her a break, Hermione,” Ron says, rolling his eyes, mouth stuffed with fried chicken.

Hermione frowns at Ron but turns to you again. “What brings you to our table? Not to be rude or anything, just curious.”

Out of the corner of your eye, you see Neville watching you quietly. With tension in the air that no one else but the two of you feel, you speak up.

“O-oh, I was just hoping to talk to Neville, actually.” Your statement makes shocks everyone.

“Me? Right, yes. I’m Neville. Sorry.” He gets up, almost tripping. You smile, walking towards the doors of the great hall with him.

“So, why’d you want to talk to me, Y-Y/N?”

The tension is thicker than ever and you take a deep breath. Better to tell him now than leave school knowing the one guy I genuinely liked never knew about how I really felt.

The sayings were right, it was easier said (in your head) than done.

“I need to tell you something important.”

“Like why the sky is usually blue?” Neville asks, trying to make the situation lighter.

You chuckle lightly. “I know the answer to that, but no. I-I came to tell you about how I felt. How I, um, how I really feel about you. I’ve always liked you, since forever. You were so nice to me all the years we had in school together and even when we saw each other out of school. I’m so glad we’re friends, Neville, but now I want to be more.”

When you finish your confession, you let out a long, shaky breath that you didn’t know you were holding in.

Lost for words, Neville stands there, shocked out of his shell. “Are- are you sure?” He asks quietly, his words almost inaudible.

“Yes. I’ve never been so sure in my life. Not even when I was sure I was going to fail one of my classes but- that’s irrelevant at the moment. I’m sorry. I’m just really scared that-”

Neville cuts you off by placing his hand on your chin. “Y/N.”

You look up at him, staring at his lips. Instead of feeling nervous, you both feel all the tension ease and your feelings for each other are reciprocated.

He leans down and places a soft kiss on your lips.

Your first sweet kiss.

[themaninflannel]

Angst day fic

Summary: Dean finds a case and takes Sam to go and fight it, but doesn’t tell his friend Y/N. she takes matters into her own hands to find the man she loves.

Characters: dean x reader, Sam x Eileen, Platonic!reader x Eileen, Cas

Warnings: lots of swearing and drinking, torture(not very graphic), canon-typical violence

word count: ~4k

A/N: hey guys! this is my contribution to angst day! i dont know how i feel about it so feedback would be much apreiciated! also its my first fic thats over 2k words yay me!

I had fucked up. I knew it. He knew it. Hell, even Sam knew it. 

I don’t know what made me say it. It wasn’t a new thought to me, I had always known, but what possessed me to say the actual words to him (and in such a way??) was beyond me.

When those words left my mouth i knew i had forever changed what we had.

Dean Winchester had found a prophecy and of course like the idiot I knew him to be he went and tried to handle the whole thing on his own. Needless to say, he landed us all in a pretty shitty situation. We had angels after us, not really what ya want on what was supposed to be a chill week post-apocalypse (but who were we kidding that wasn’t gonna happen).

Dean came rushing into the bunker at God knows what hour in the fucking morning shouting about the warding, waking Sam and I from our semi-peaceful slumbers.

“Fuck! FUCK! Where is the goddamn holy oil when you need it!” He said to himself as he tore apart our store rooms.

“Ok, Dean. What the hell is happening? Why the hell are you freaking out?” I sleepily scolded when I walked into the room.

“Angels.” Was the only response I got.

“Well, yeah, I kinda assumed with the holy oil and all,” I snapped.

“Its-there was a-I fucked up,” He finally admitted.

“What did you do?” Asked Sam from his spot in the doorway.

“Prophecy. Pissed some angels off,” He explained in half-sentences while still frantically searching. If whatever he did scared even him we were in big trouble.

“That’s helpful.” Sam snarked as he walked out of the room.

“Ok, look, D. Whatever it is we can figure it out,” I said softly, kneeling next to him.

“Not this time.” I had never heard him sound so defeated.

“Dea- Dean! will you stop and listen to me? Come on, of course, we’ll fight this. No matter what.” I knelt down and grabbed his shoulders making him look at me.

“No. This is my war. You and Sam need to stay away.” I fell back on my heels and threw my arms up.

“Holy shit, I am in love with an idiot! you really think that Sam and i will let you go off on your own and get yourself killed??” I had said it before I even realized. It just slipped out.

“I’m sorry? You’re what?!” He sounded shocked. I mean, he had a reason to be, we had only ever been friends. I mean it’s not every day your best friend say something like I did.

“It doesn't matter, what matters is that we’re not leaving you to do this on your own.” With that, I stood up and tried to walk out of the room with as much dignity as i could. “I’m going to bed, we’ll deal with the angels in the morning,” I called over my shoulder before I left earshot.

I laid on my bed staring at the ceiling, my head just playing that conversation over and over until I finally fell asleep. I can’t believe I actually said that to him. And what the hell are we gonna do about the angels? And why are they pissed in the first place? Oh, tomorrow is gonna be just fantastic.

I woke up around noon the next day dreading what was gonna happen when I saw Dean. When I finally got the balls to get up and go downstairs I threw on my favorite flannel and began my hunt for caffeine. 

“Who drank all the goddamn coffee?!” I shouted out of the kitchen. When no one answered I went to go see what was up. I looked around the entire bunker and didn’t find them. I pulled out my phone and instinctually started to put in Deans number before stopping myself knowing that wasn’t something I wanted to deal with yet. Instead, I called Sam. And got his viocemail.

“Hey? Umm.. I don’t know where you guys went but please call me back soon. If you’re hunting/running from something you better tell me where the hell you are so I can come and save your sorry asses.” I paused and took a breath, “And if you idiots are dealing with our angel issue without me I’m going to kill you. Like, you will need Chuck to put you back together after I’m done with you. Call me back.” I slammed the phone down on the war room table. “Fuck!”

I spent the rest of the day fuming that they left me and doing all of the things they didn’t like me doing. I left all the dishes in the sink, I revved all the engines in the garage, I rearranged the books in the library- in the proper way i might add- and just generally screwed around. I finally crashed on the couch at like 2 am. I woke up the next morning expecting to have a call from one of the boys but my phone screen was still ominously empty. 

Two days later I still hadn’t heard anything from them despite calling and calling and I was starting to get really worried, so I did the only think I could think of: I called in reinforcements.

“Cas? Yeah, hi its Y/N, I was just calling to see if you’ve heard from the boys at all in the last few days?…..You haven’t? Ok, thanks…..Yeah, I’ll keep you posted if I hear anything…Thanks again, bye Cas,” Next I tried Eileen.

“Hey Eileen, have you heard from Sam at all in the last few days?” I signed through my webcam.

“No, what’s up? Is he ok?” she asked.

“No idea, a few days ago I woke up and they were both gone and they’re not answering any of my calls.” 

“I’m like a state away if you want me to swing by and help you look for them?” I must look as worried as I feel for her to offer.

“That would be great, and you know there’s always a bed for you here.” After hanging up with Eileen I felt a little better, at least I wasn’t on my own with this anymore. The next step was to track their phones, if they haven’t turned them off already that is. 

When Eileen got there we indulged in true Winchester fashion and got really fucking drunk. Don’t get me wrong, we were doing our best but coming up empty. Therefore, booze. Once we were good and wasted we got to talking, in a way that only two people that share the same worries can.

“I just don’t want them….Dean…to have gone into this without a plan. Or back up! And I- I can’t leave things with us they way they were. I don’t know why I did it but,” I started to talk really fast and skimp a little on my signing, “I need him to talk to me again,”

“Whoa, whoa. Slow down. I can’t follow when you talk that fast.” She reminded me before continuing, ”But I’m sure they will be ok. They’re smart. Whatever it is, they can handle it.”

“Yeah sure, yours is smart. Dean? he’s reckless.”

“What do you mean ‘mine’?” She sat up so she could see my hands better.

“Ya know? Sam. Don’t you guys have something going on?” I questioned. I could tell Sam had a thing for her and now I just had to find out if it was reciprocated. If I couldn’t have my Winchester, the least I could do was help a friend get hers.

“What? No. I mean…he’s tall and strong.. and smart..and kind..but no! We’re just friends. He wouldn’t want to hook up with the Deaf girl anyway,” She sounded sad.

“Bull. why do you think I can sign? He made me study with him every night so he could learn your language and make sure you never felt left out. And you liiike him! You so do!” I scooched closer to her so we could really talk.

“Really? But why…?”

“Because he is head over heels, girl!”

“Fuck. We gotta find those dumb asses.”

“No shit. But why the new energy?”

“So that I can climb that mountain,” That made me laugh, “and you can work out your issues with Dean.” She finished as she got up and started to walk away.

“Wait! Hold up! Where are you going?” I called after her before remembering that that wouldn’t do any good cause she couldn’t hear me. So I just followed her to the kitchen.

“Coffee?” She asked searching cabinets.

“Pantry. Why are you making coffee?”

“So that we can sober up and keep searching for our boys.” She said matter of factly. 

“Our boys?” I questioned.

“Yeah. I’m not the only one who has a Winchester’s heart.” She turned to me.

“No.” I shook my head, “You should have seen his face when I said I loved him. That was not the face of someone who felt the same.” 

“I think that’s bullshit. You were literally wearing his flannel when you called me. You are the only other person he lets drive the Impala. You guys are aggressively domestic. I don’t know why he made that face but he definitely has feelings for you too. We’ll just have to figure it out when we find them.”

“Any ideas? So far, I’m thinking we should call Cas, see if he can find them.”

“Sounds good to me,” She said before chugging her coffee and shouting for Cas.

“Yes?” Cas said as he appeared behind me making me jump, I may be a badass hunter but I don’t have nerves of steel.

“We need you to look for the boys. We tracking their phones but it didn’t work,” I explained.

“Ok let me see if I can sense them,” He stood there with his eyes closed for a minute before speaking again, “I can’t feel them they must be warded from me.”

“Makes sense, Dean said he was having angel trouble before they left, Crap!” We all did as much research as we could on special angel types and kelp asking Cas about things that could piss of the angels.

“Wait!” I exclaimed pulling my head out from my book, “A few months back I borrowed Dean’s car to go on a solo hunt and they found me, Dean put a tracker on the Impala. If I can find the tracker I can find them. If its still on the car anyway.” I excitedly pulled out my laptop and started typing away. 

Almost an hour passed before I triumphantly slammed my computer shut.

“I did it! I know where the car is!” We all got up to go get our stuff together and Eileen pulled me into a hug. 

“Thank you. I knew you could do it,” She whispered into my hair.

“Let’s go get our boys!” I signed once she pulled away and could see my hands again.

“Our boys, huh? Finally coming around to my way of thought?” She teased.

“Shut up, go get your crap together we gotta go.” I jokingly shoved her away.

Cas had said he couldn’t get involved with the angels but to call him if someone really needed healing so, for now, it was just the two of us. We loaded our shit into the back of the fastest car in the garage and sped off on our hunt for the men we loved.  

About a million miles later we finally got to the place they were supposed to be. I slowed the car as we passed what looked like an abandoned motel, I pulled the car into the parking lot searching for that familiar black beauty of a car. We finally found the car but not its owners.

Once we checked in the office and found out that it was indeed abandoned we went and checked its entry log.

“Agent Halen and Agent Nicks. That’s them,” i said confidently.

“how do you know?” Eileen asked.

“I know them.” 

We snuck over to the room, guns at the ready. After knocking on the door and getting no response Eileen kicked down the door. What we saw in the room is not what we were expecting. Both of the boys were gone, but it didn’t look like there had been a struggle. I poked my head into the bathroom and found a very knocked out person laying in the tub. I waved Eileen over and we dragged the man into a chair and made sure he wasn’t going anywhere before we threw cold water on his face and slapped him so he would wake up.

“Who are you?” I questioned when he was conscious again.

“Who I am is of no importance. What I am is what you should worry about, girl,”

“Oh joy. Another smartass creature who thinks he’s better just cause he’s a guy.” I silently signed to Eileen. “Ok. I’ll bite. What are ya?” I said to the man.

“Oh darlin’, I’m an angel. I’m everything you’ve ever wished for-” his voice got all syrupy sweet

“Don’t try it.” I cut him off “I recognize angel hypnosis when I hear it. This isn’t my first rodeo. Now, you are going to tell me what happened to the Winchesters. And if you cooperate I might just make your death as painless as I can.” I threatened, pulling an angel blade from its sheath on my thigh.

“I don’t know where your boyfriend is. I was busy being knocked out when they were taken.” He was clearly lying, angels don’t get knocked out. Meaning he wanted to be found.

“Who took them, “ Eileen asked.

“Now, why would I tell you that? And miss all the fun when you realize you’re too late! They’re probably dead by now anyway,” I sliced his cheek with the blade allowing the light to break through his skin.

“Tell us who has them or I will make this as painful and slow as I can. Now I’m no Alistair but I have a few tricks up my sleeve.” I leaned in real close and spit in his face.

“Doesn’t matter anyway. By now your boys are dead and the angels have exactly what they need,”

“And what, pray tell, might that be?” Eileen questioned.

“You girls really don’t know anything, do you? Oh, it’s not any fun this way. Fine. The hot-blooded gentlemen you so desire were being held in the penthouse apartment of the one nice building in this hick ville.”

“Thank you, we appreciate your cooperation,” I said before I stabbed him in the face.

“God, he was a dick, but at least now we know where to start,” Eileen said.

We got back into the car and drove around until we found the place we were looking for. the one fancy building in the whole town. we grabbed all the guns we could carry and a few extra angle blades in case the boys lost theirs and went in.

We went in the back entrance not knowing who or what might be in the lobby, we got to the stairs before anyone noticed our presence, by the time they had caught up to us we had already gotten half way up to the penthouse.

I felt something grab at my ankle and kicked, hard, sending myself off balance. Eileen and I fought as hard as we could to get away from the angels but we were no match for the six angels that had found us. They took us and dragged us up to where the boys were being kept, on the way up they took all of our weapons, or at least they thought they did they missed the blade I hid in my cleavage. We were blindfolded when they took us and tied us to the ceiling.

When the blindfolds were taken off I could see that we were in what appeared to be the love suite, complete with heart-shaped bed. I looked around, I was one of six victims, the boys were down the line a little ways but they looked to be alive.

“Who are you, ladies? And why have you come?” A woman in what looked to be a hookers outfit approached us.

“You have something of ours.” Eileen spat.

“And we’re here to take it back, bitch,” I shouted. I saw sams head perk at the sound of Eileen’s voice and smiled a little knowing they would be happy if we could get through this.

“What the hell are you smiling at?” The woman asked me, grabbing my face.

“I just know that we are gonna get out. Ya know why? Because we have a motivation you clearly don’t understand. Pure human love. And also you don’t know how to tie a knot!” I pulled my arm down and punched her in the jaw. I pulled out the angel blade I had hidden and killed her. I cut everyone down before the rest of the angels came in.

“What the hell are you doing here?” Dean asked when he took off his blindfold.

“Saving your ass apparently. Now help me kill the rest of these douches,” I answered, not looking at him. 

Between the four of us, we managed to kill all the angels and save the civilians. As I slid the blade out of the last I looked over at Eileen. She marched right over to Sam and pulled him down into a kiss. He wrapped his huge arms and kissed her back with everything he had. I was very proud of Eileen. This did, however, leave the car arrangements up in the air and somehow it was decided that I would ride with Dean and Eileen would drive my car with Sam. Great. An 8-hour drive with Dean. That’s gonna be real fun. 

The first few hours of the drive were silent save for Deans cassette tapes. Finally, I couldn’t take it anymore.

“Ya know, normal people say thank you when someone saves them from getting killed by psychopathic angels,” I snapped at him over the music. He turned it down but didn’t say anything for a minute.

“Is that coming from a hunter or someone that’s in love with me?” 

“Let’s forget I said that ok? For now, let’s just be happy you forgot to turn off the tracker on Baby,” I said. I wasn’t ready to deal with the feelings part, not while he still seemed so pissed. I was just so relieved that he was ok.

“Is that how you found us? And why was Eileen there?”

“You didn’t answer your phone for days, I called her to see if she had heard from Sam, needless to say, she hadn’t and so she decided to come and help me find yall,” the rest of the car ride was done in silence. When we got back to the bunker we split and went our separate ways, I went up and crashed, I didn’t pay attention to where Dean went.

In the morning I went down to the kitchen for coffee like normal and was met with everyone talking about the night before.

“Hey, anyone wanna fill me in?” I asked with a mug held at my chest, when I started talking Dean walked out of the room.

“Dean found a prophecy about the end of the world and the angels were after it, they were a doomsday cult-like branch-”

“So like extra douchy,” Eileen cut same off. I was happy to see them being cute and cuddly.

“Exactly, well anyway, they wanted the prophecy but we had it…so…yeah,” 

“Good thing they’re all dead now,” I commented as I walked out of the room.

The day went on as normal, or as normal as it could be with Dean blatantly ignoring me or walking out every time we were in the same room. That went on for days before I decided I needed to get out of my head.

“Hey, Eileen. Wanna go shoot at the range downstairs? I need to not think for a little while,” She and I went down and had target practice for a while and it really did help. Finally, I was done and headed back to my room. But on my way, Sam grabbed my arm and dragged me to one of the spare rooms. When he opened the door a very frustrated looking Dean was standing there.

“What the hell is this, man?” Dean asked.

“Putting you two together in the car didn’t work so now we’re putting you I here until you figure your shit out. I’m don’t watching you guys be weird,” Sam said closing the door after him. I groaned when I heard the lock click into place as it shut and I knew we were stuck.

“Why are you upset at this? You get the good end of the deal.” Dean was being such an ass lately.

“Since when do you have an issue with people being attracted to you?” I snapped back at him. I didn’t feel like feeling with his bs attitude anymore.

“Why would you be attracted to me. Why would you joke about it? You said it yourself; I’m an ass, I’m an idiot, I’m reckless. What’s so appealing about that?” He seemed genuinely upset.

“You think it was all a joke? Yeah, I told my best friend that I was in love with him cause I thought it would be soo funny to make things weird between us. Haha. fucking hilarious.”

“You’re a nice girl, you could do so much better than me. You know that. So why would you go for me?” He sounded almost defeated.

“Some things you don’t get to choose. You didn’t choose to be raised into the hunter’s life. I didn’t choose to have feelings for my friend. Some things are out of our control.” While I was taking I was slowly walking toward him.

“It would have been better if I hadn’t been born into this. So many people would still be alive.” He turned his back on me but not before I saw his emerald eyes start to swim.

“So many more people would be dead if you hadn’t been there to save their lives. To stop the apocalypse. To kill Hitler. You are a hero. And that’s what I fell in love with. Because even when you make stupid decisions it’s because you care so much. You are a good man. And that’s what I fell for.” I put my hand on his shoulder and slowly walked around him so that I was standing in front of him with one hand on his chest and the other wiping away his tears.

“Do you really love me?” He asked. His voice so low I almost couldn’t hear him. I nodded in response.

“Every piece,” I answered in the same quiet voice. He closed the small distance between us and pulled me into a tight hug, wrapped in is arms.

“Thank God,” he said into the top of my head. His voice still low and gravely from emotion.

I could tell that I was where I belonged. And I would stay there as long as he needed me to.

[just-jordie-things]

Like She’s Mine (part five) - Stiles Stilinski

not gonna lie, i love when i post a part you all beg for the next one haha i guess i’m evil like that

warnings: swearing, sadness, teen pregnancy

part one part two part three part four

FOUR MONTHS LATER (early june)

I was laughing and giggling at Madison as she was sat on her pastel blue blanket.  We were both sat on the living room floor, and I just watched as she sucked her pacifier and continuously rattled her little elephant themed rattle.

“Who’s a cutie? You are! You are!” I leaned forward tickling her size and bumping my nose against hers as she just fell into a fit of giggles.  “You are! You are!” I said in my high pitched voice that made her smile in the wide toothless way I love.  The pacifier nearly fell out of her mouth.  I laughed, sticking it back between her lips.

“Can I play with her?” Allison asked, sliding off the couch and falling oh so gracefully on her butt.  But it made Madi laugh, so she probably did it on purpose.  I nodded, and tugged on the ends of her blanket, making her laugh again as she slid across the carpet.  Allison smiled brightly, picking up Madi from under her arms and lifting her in the air.  Madison squealed with delight, kicking her legs around and flailing her arms.  I smiled as Allison rose her up and down, both of them giggling.

“Do you mind if I go take a call for a little bit? Not long-”

“Take all the time you need” Allison said, not tearing her eyes away from Madi.  “I’ve got this.  Be gone for a week, I could care less” I scoffed playfully and shook my head.

“Hard to believe there was a time you loved me more than my daughter” I said, chuckling as I left the room.  I pulled out my phone, and dialed one of the few numbers I knew by heart.

“Hey it’s Stiles Stilinski why can I do for ya?” I could hear the grin in his voice as he spoke.

“Stiles” I practically breathed out his name.  I hadn’t spoken to him, at least on a call we text a bit, in quite a while.  In fact not since before Madi was born.

“Hey y/n” I sat down on my bed after closing my door, and just relished in the sound of his voice.  “Hello?”

“Sorry I’m still here” I said.  “How’s George Washington?”

“Great! y/n I’m so excited, two more weeks of classes then I come back home” My heart swelled.

“I’m excited too Stiles” I said softly.  “I don’t like being apart for a whole year” He chuckled slightly.

“You okay? You’re quiet today” He said.  I played with the seam on the side of my jeans

“Yeah I’ve just… I’ve missed your voice” I said.  It was quiet for a few seconds, and I worried that I was too forward.  “You never shut up when you were here and now you’re gone and geez” I covered quickly, and he gave a small laugh.

“Yeah.. yeah I’ve missed you a lot too y/n” He told me, and I was glad he couldn’t see my blush.  “I didn’t miss anything big right? You didn’t get married or have a baby or become an assassin right?” I think I gave him the most forced laugh you could offer.

“No Stiles don’t be crazy” I said.  I accidentally ripped out a loose thread in my jeans, cursing silently.  He laughed again.

“Two more weeks y/n” He said.

“Two weeks” I repeated.

“You finish up your courses?” He asked.

“Yep” I responded, picking again at the thread on my leg.

“Well that’s good, lot of free time?”

No, my time is pretty taken up with diaper changing and amusing Madison.

“Well sort of, work is cramping a lot of time but I’ve got nothing better to do and money’s always good right?”

“Well if you ever have to much, I’m always just a call away” I giggled, and pulled my legs up on the mattress, criss crossing them.  “Anyways, I’ve got class in ten so I’ve gotta get going”

“Oh, alright” I responded.

“But thanks for the call y/n, made my day” I blushed again.

“Well I’m glad.  I’ll see you soon Stilinski”

“You too l/n”

“Bye”

“Bye” I pulled the phone from my ear, hesitating to hang up.  He wasn’t either, I was just staring as the seconds ticked on the screen.  My thumb hovered over the red button, but in seconds I whipped it back to my ear.

“Stiles?” Why was I breathless.

“Yeah?” I froze up, too nervous to say anything truthful.  Maybe, I have a couple big secrets, one, I had a baby and it’s Theo’s and I kept her, two, I’m in love with you.  “y/n? You alright?”

“Yeah just…” I thought, biting harshly on my lip.  “Just come back with your smile, okay?” He chuckled slightly, a puff of air through his mouth.

“You too” He responded.

“Okay”

“Okay” He whispered the word, and I thought of a movie Lydia once forced me to watch.  “I’ll see you in two weeks y/n”

“Bye Stiles”

I hung up this time.  I set the phone on my bed next to me, and just took a moment to recoup.  My hands were wringing together as I collected my thoughts, already wondering what I was going to do with Madison while he was here.  I couldn’t hide her forever… but he couldn’t know.  And the longer I kept her a secret, the more at risk he was of finding out.  When I finally got up and opened the door, Allison was there, holding Madi on her hip and bouncing slightly.

“That was sad” She said, and I rolled my eyes.

“Really? Listening in on my phone call?” The brunette shrugged.

“Madison was falling asleep, I was getting bored” I giggled and shook my head.

“Al, you know I was going to tell you anyways” I told her, carefully picking Madi up from her cradle, and tucked her safely in my arms.  She went out to the living room as I brought the little girl into her room.  Yeah, Allison sort of lost the second room I had spare.  We turned it into a blue and pink walled nursery.  There was Madi’s crib in the corner, the changing station in the other.  A small structure hung from the low ceiling over her crib, stars and animals hung from strings.  I laid her in her crib, brushing my hand over her cheek softly, before leaning down and pressing a soft kiss to her forehead.  “I love you Madi” I whispered, before turning on the baby monitor, taking the other one, and heading out to where Allison was.  She was sitting on the couch in the living room, pouring a glass of wine in one of the two glasses she had.

“Wine?” She asked, holding it out to me.

“Yes please” I heaved, and sat next to her.  She moved so her back was on the armrest, legs swung over my lap.

“Hey uh… is it cool if Scott comes over?” She asked, and I nodded, waving a dismissive hand.  “Good cause I already invited him” I chuckled, and clinked my glass against hers.  “So” I looked at her as I took a sip.  “How’s Stiles?” I shrugged slightly, though it was unnecessary.

“Excited for school to be over” I said plainly.

“Seemed happy to see you soon” She added, and I stayed silent, staring down into my glass.  “You were pretty quiet though, until the end” I still didn’t speak.  “I thought you were gonna tell him about Madi”

“I almost did” I finally admitted.  “I wanted to.  I really wanted to actually”

“Are you going to?” She asked, and I shrugged my shoulders, letting out a long and exasperated sigh.

“I want to Al, sometimes anyways, I really do” She nodded, prompting me to continue.  “I have thoughts about seeing him like… hold her and… and play with her and push her stroller” I smiled softly at the idea.  “Maybe rocking her late at night… or like, feeding her or something, maybe even singing, you know those weird thoughts you get”

“Come here” Allison said softly, opening her arms.  I leaned to the side, my head lying on her collarbone.  “y/n your problem isn’t just telling him about Madi, you know” She murmured.

“What’s my problem?” I asked quietly.

“You’re conflicted” She told me.  “Because you love him.  You don’t like the secrets because you love him, and because you love him you don’t want him to be disappointed in you” I let out a long breath, knowing she was right.

“Why are you such a therapist” Allison laughed softly, petting my hair before I sat back up and practically chugged my wine.  How lady like, I know.

“Anyways.  I do agree that eventually you have to tell him”

“I know”

“But I understand that you’re nervous”

“I know” You said again.  I poured myself another glass of wine, and Allison re situated her legs to no longer be on my lap, but tucked underneath herself.  I sat silently, trying to collect m thoughts.  I think that’s all I’ve been doing, trying to organize everything before delving into a master plan.  That being hiding Madi while Stiles was home.  There was just too much to think about at once.

I was thinking about moving to Canada and beginning my life as Lucy Delmotte, traveling artist and sculptor when there was a knock on the door.

“That’s Scott” Allison mused.  “It’s open!” A moment later Scott had walked in, kicking off his shoes and hanging his jacket in the hall closet.  “Hey Scott” Allison said softly as he came over.  He ended up sitting on the floor by the coffee table, where our nearly empty bottle of wine sat.

“Madi sleeping?” He asked, holding onto Allison’s hand.  I gave him a nod, watching how his thumb stroked over the back of her hand soothingly.  He hummed, pouring himself his own glass.

“Stiles comes back in two weeks” Allison began to fill in Scott.  “We’re wondering what we’re going to do” She said.  This was my favorite thing about Allison I think, it was always a ‘we’.  Never a ‘y/n’s fucked something up let’s help her fix it’.

“You want honesty?” Scott asked me, taking a drink.

“I’ll take anything at this point” I sighed.

“I think you should just tell him, pick him up from the airport and bring Madi” My eyes widened, and I rapidly shook my head.  I looked to Allison.

“I thought you said he was good with helping” I said quietly.

“I am” Scott protested.  “Is honesty such a bad thing? It’s you and Stiles, why hide it? You never keep secrets”

“I’ve never had to keep a secret” I retorted as kindly as I could manage.  “Scott, I was pregnant, and I never told him.  Do you know this eats at me every day?”

“Then you’re doing both of yourselves a favor” Scott shrugged like it was simple.  “Sure, my mom kept it low key at the hospital, and somehow Parrish managed to let the records slip away from the Sheriff’s eyes and into a file, that will probably never be opened, but this is Stiles, and you”

“I don’t know what that means anymore Scott” I sighed, drinking the last of my glass, and setting it on the table.  Scott sighed, and reached up to put a hand on my knee.

“You’ll figure it out” He said slowly.  “You always did take longer to catch on”

I sat in Madi’s room for a little bit before going to bed that night.  Sometimes when it was late and she was fast asleep I’d go sit in the rocking chair in her room, in the moonlight, and just speak softly.  Usually about my day, anything really.  Once I’d get tired enough, I’d say goodnight, take the baby monitor, and go back to my own room.

Allison went home with Scott tonight, so it was just me and Madi.  But it was already midnight, so when I collapsed on my bed, I passed out.

When I woke up the next morning, my muscles ached from sleeping awkwardly.  I groaned, rubbing my eyes as I pushed myself out of bed.  My feet dragged on the carpet to Madi’s room.  She was already awake, playing a little with a stuffed blue wolf Scott had given her.  By playing I mean she was petting it with the hint of a smile on her face.  When she saw me she made a small sound, meaning she wanted me to come over and hold her.  If it was a tone lower, it meant she either needed to be fed, changed, or needed her pacifier.

“Hey there baby girl” I said with a sleepy smile.  She kicked her feet happily and I stooped over the crib to lift her up.  I yawned, holding her on my hip and wandering into the kitchen.  She made a higher pitched noise, and I opened the fridge, grabbing her bottle.  “This what you want?” I asked softly, and her hands reached out for the bottle of milk.  I chuckled quietly, holding it at the end as her mouth latched around the nipple.  I didn’t prefer to direct breastfeed, too much pain and I don’t think Madi liked it as much.  So Allison and I looked into it, and I ended up buying a breast pump.

I liked feeding her from the bottle because she would hold onto best she could, and it would always make laugh.

I was bouncing her slightly and speaking softly to her when I heard the door open.  My brows furrowed with confusion since Allison said she was staying with Scott for the day,

“Hello-” I turned, and grinned so wide when I saw Lydia there.  She was tearing up, dropping a suitcase and a purse by the doorway.

“y/n” She choked out my name, rushing over to me with open arms.  I gladly let her hug me gently for a quick moment, and her attention was soon diverted to Madi.  “She’s even more adorable than in the pictures” Lydia said.  I smiled and nodded, setting the bottle on the kitchen table.

“Would you like to hold her?” Lydia looked at me, a slight worry in her eyes.  “Don’t worry, she’s comfortable and she’ll like you.  You have a nice chest” Lydia giggled and nodded her head.

“Yes, yes I’d love to” She said, and I carefully handed Madison over.  “Wow” Lydia breathed, rocking her in her arms.

“See? You’re a natural Lyd” I said, watching as my friend and daughter smiled at each other.  “I didn’t know you were getting back today, I thought it was tomorrow”

“Eh, I drove here, so I just went through the night instead of stopping at a hotel.  I was too excited to see Madi here… and maybe at three too many Starbucks stops” I chuckled as Lydia sat on the couch.  “I love the apartment, it’s adorable and perfect” I nodded, looking around.  It was a nice size.

“So you drove here all the way from Massachusetts?”

The next two hours we just sat there catching up on the majority of our year.  I talked a lot about baby raising, and she talked a lot about the art museums in Cambridge, which was where her campus was.  We did a lot of gushing about missing each other and her being happy to meet her niece.  I’d happily deemed Lydia and Allison as Madison’s aunts not long after she was born.

“And what’re we planning to do about Stiles?” She asked, catching me off guard.

“Currently i’m planning my escape route to Alaska” I sighed, and she chuckled.  “I don’t know.  I’m torn”

“Still not going to tell him?”

“Not this time around” I answered.

“When does he come back?” Lydia asked.  I gave her a guilty look as Madi squirmed, and Lydia handed her back for me to cradle.

“A little under two weeks”

The next day Scott babysat Madi and Lydia, Allison I spent the whole day out.  There was a lot of shopping.  No seriously, Lydia made us go into every store at the mall.  Every time she turned into one saying ‘this could be good’ Allison and I gave each other a look.  Basically a lot of foot pain but worth it because hey, new clothes! It was nice being able to wear the cute stuff again.  Lydia was mostly excited for me to be wearing heels, to which I cringed.  Though I did find some cute sandal styled black wedges.  I thought they’d be fun for a beach day or something.

We ate lunch out, again catching up and talking about Stiles.  Why has this whole situation make me talk more about Stiles than I think about him? That was more than you’d think.  By the end of the day, you’d finally made your decision.

Allison, Lydia, and Scott would cover Madi for you while Stiles was visiting this summer, so he’d never see or come into contact with her.  Then, when he’s at school again, you mention wishing you had someone to take care of, and ‘adopt’ Madison while he was away.

Allison wrinkled her nose at the idea, and Lydia straight up said it was a shitty plan.

“Got any better ideas?” You asked, bouncing Madison on your knee as you were back at the apartment now.  Both girls sighed, mumbling an ‘I guess not’.  Then taking turns trying to make Madison laugh.  But she was too tired from playing all day with Scott.  Me too baby girl, you thought to yourself.

“Look guys, it’s getting to be eight I’m gonna put Madi to sleep” You said after a while.  Allison and Lydia agreed, and Allison began fixing supper for the three of you as you took your girl back to her room.  “Alright baby.. Let’s get some sleep” You hummed, setting her down in her crib, and wrapping the blankets around her.  “There… nice and cozy, yeah?” You smiled as her eyes lowly slipped shut.  “Love you Madison” I told her, and brushed a hand over her head with a slight fuzz of hair.  “So much” I stooped over to kiss her lightly at the crown of her head, and I tried to stop myself from crying.  

“y/n! Stiles is calling!” Allison called.  “I’ll answer it!” She added before I could say anything,

There was too much stress swarming me.  “I’ll see you in the morning sweetheart” I murmured.  “Goodnight” I whispered again, before finally getting back up and heading to the living room.

“Oh and here she is now” There was hushed giggles between the girls as I saw Allison clutching the phone to her ear.

“Hey, can I talk to him when you’re done-

“He’s been waiting to speak to you” Lydia wiggled her eyebrows and laughed loudly.

“GUYS!” I heard Stiles yell through the phone and I chuckled quietly.

“Alright alright fine” Allison sighed, handing the phone towards you.  “It’s for you” She sing songed and winked at me.  My brows furrowed but I managed a small laugh seeing that Lydia was laughing her ass off on the floor.  I rose the phone to my ear .

“Hello? Stiles?”

“Hey” He said, smile evident, as always.  “Hey, how’s the life in Beacon Hills?”

“Good, good, how’s DC?”

“Good…. Good” He responded.  “So I kinda had an idea that I just asked Lyd and Allison about and they made fun of me sorta”

“It’s okay, you’re used to it I’m sure” He chuckled quietly as I smiled.  “What was your big idea?” I asked.

“Well I was thinking when I’m there, we could go to San Diego” My eyes widened.

“That’s a full day of driving-”’

“Like for a whole weekend.  We could drive there on Friday, spend Saturday and Sunday, probably at a hotel or something.  We could shop and go to the zoo-”

“Why did the girls make fun of you?” I giggled.  “It sounds like a lot of fun, I’m in”

“Yeah but it’d be like… just you and me so they were laughing-”

“So?” I shrugged.  “We always have a good time together and we’ve got so much to catch up on, I just spent a year without my best friend” I gasped.  “What if you buzzcut your head again!? I can’t let that happen- promise me you’ll still have lots of hair on your head!” Stiles laughed, and you were sure that he was running his fingers through it now.

“Yeah yeah, I promise it’s all still there” He told you.

“Oh thank god, you would’ve been making the mistake of a lifetime” I breathed, putting a hand on my chest.

“What? Scott always said it was cute-”

“No, no Stiles.  Five year old buzzcuts are cute.  What you have now? Keep that.  Chicks think it’s hot” Your face grew hot the second those words left your mouth.

“I’m hot?” Stiles asked, cockiness clear in his tone.

“Don’t let it go to your head, all that good hair will fall out and you’ll lose it” He laughed again, and I sat down on my bed.  “Anyways, San Diego sounds like a lot of fun, I’ll definitely go with you”

“Sweet!” I giggled softly as he was borderline screaming.  “I’m so excited y/n, this is gonna be such a great summer”

“Yeah I do hope so” You said.  A few moments later, your baby monitor rang with the sound of Madison’s cries.  Panic surged through you as you fumbled to turn it off.  Hopefully Stiles couldn’t hear it.

“So how’s Scotty-”

“Oh, Allison’s calling for me I have to go” You lied quickly.

“Oh, okay” Stiles said.

“It was nice talking to you Stiles, love you see you soon bye” I rushed, and hung up the phone then rushed into Madi’s room, not waiting for a response.

“y/n-” Allison had just come in after I had, about to inform me of my daughter but I was already lifting her and cradling her in my arms.

“Shh… shh baby” I hushed and cooed.  I first checked her diaper, but she was clean.  “Alli can you grab her bottle? It’s in the fridge” I asked, and she nodded, leaving the room.  Lydia came in awkwardly, and ended up just standing by the wall as I rocked Madison back and forth.  “Hush Madison Rose, shh” I cooed.  “It’s okay… it’s okay”

“I wish I knew how to help” Lydia said, and I casted a kind glance her way.

“It’s okay” I said to her before looking back to Madison.

“You know uh.. I know it’s your guys’ business, but I heard you talking to Stiles” She said, a big grin pulling on her lips.

“Oh yeah, he said you guys made fun of him”

“I mean, renting a couples’ suite is sort of ‘make fun of’ worthy don’t you think?” Lydia chuckled, and my eyebrows scrunched together.  But she spoke before I could say anything about it.  “You seemed to love it though, telling him you loved him” She drew out the word loved, and my anxiety peaked.

“What!?” I whisper screamed, not wanting to make Madi cry again.  Allison rushed in with the bottle in hand.  “Thank god” I breathed, and was happy that milk was the solution because it calmed Madison instantly.

“You told him you loved him, at the end of the call.  I heard you specifically say it.  You said nice talking to you Stiles, love you, see you soon bye, like it was all one sentence” If I wasn’t holding my daughter, I’d be slapping myself in the face.

“I can’t believe I did, it was an accident I just-”

“Hey, it’s fine.  Not like he’s gonna care” Allison snickered as I slowly stopped rocking Madison.

“What? Why do you guys keep saying weird stuff like that?”

“Well he found a hotel for cheap, but it was one of those ‘romantic’ things you know? Less money cause it’s where couples go for their honeymoon or as vacation away from the kids” My eyes widened, probably the size of a saucer because that’s how it felt.  I had to force myself to blink.

“Really?” I asked quietly, glancing down to Madi.

“Yeah, he said it’s cheaper you know? And maybe she’ll dig it I dunno. He said that last part all quiet like” Allison informed you, and your heart swelled.  He wanted you to dig it.

“Yeah, yeah I would dig it” I said with a little giggle.

I spent the whole night thinking about it, and the whole next day.

“Wipe that smile off your face” Allison said the following night as she packed up a bag for Madison.  Her and Scott were taking her for the day, saying it was time for me to relax for just one day by myself.  I was very reluctant but eventually Scott gave me a twenty and I folded.  I slowly set Madison down into the crib, and ran my hands through my hair as I began to pace around the room.

“Wipe the smug look off your face” I retorted, sitting down in the rocking chair as Allison tickled Madison’s belly while she was in her crib.

“No way.  I’m watching the boy of your dreams get the girl of his dreams, you, and I’m just too… too excited about it” She gave me that wide angelic smile that I was pretty sure made Scott melt into his shoes.  I looked down at my lap, playing with the drawstrings of my sweatpants.

“I think you guys are reading into the situation- not that I don’t love the idea of us- Stiles and I- but... I don’t know it’s just not, him” Allison gave me a long face, and I shrugged, palms up with a tight smile.

“You don’t know that” She countered.

“Alli, you could say that about anything” I said softly, and she sighed, putting an extra rattle into Madi’s bag.

“I guess we’ll just have to see” She said.

Again, I spent the night pondering my Stiles fiasco.  It used to a be a few separate things, but I think they’ve all just balled into one mess.  We’d texted here and there today, and he never mentioned my not so tiny slip on the phone, so I figured he just pegged it as an accident.  Which was fine, as least there wasn’t a big situation.  But at the same time I wish I knew what went through his head when I’d said it.  I fell asleep after hours of deep brain thinking.

The next morning, the day of Madi being stolen from me baby sat by Scott and Allison for most of the day, I woke up lazily.  I was happy to see Allison making breakfast as my daughter sat in her high chair.  She let me sleep in.  That’s real friendship.

“Morning sweet pea” I said in a high voice, nearing my daughter as she gurgled and waved her arms.

“Morning to you too hot stuff” Allison responded with a short laugh.

“I wasn’t talking to you I was talking to this little bean” I said, giggling at the end, making Madison giggle too.  She held onto my fingers in each hand.  “What’re you cooking?”

“I’m making you scrambled eggs and french toast before I go” Allison responded, wiping her hands on her already messy and wrinkled tee shirt.

“Awe” I smiled her way before going back to entertaining my girl.

“Yeah I figured you’d want something nice” Allison hollered, and I heard her turning the dials of the stove, probably to off.

“Thank you” I said, walking in as she was putting the delicious meal on a plate.

“No prob hon” She said with a bug grin.  “I’m gonna go put on something presentable” I nodded, carrying my plate and a glass of juice to the table, leaving it to cool and going back to Madison.

“Someday you can eat the yummy nummy people food and not the goopy banana soup” I said, smiling big and tickling her neck.  She squealed and giggled in response, making my heart warm.  When Allison came back out, she was in jeans and a blue tee shirt with white arrows all over it.  It suited her well.  But hell, everything suits her well.  It’s Allison.  She had Madison’s bag on her shoulder, and was pushing the stroller in front of her.

“Alright, we all ready?” Allison asked, bearing the same size smile as me.

“We are!” I said enthusiastically, hoping Madi would get happy and not really realize that mommy wouldn’t be going with her today.  But she always did really well with Allison.  Allison undid the buckle around her tummy, and lifted her out of the high chair and into the stroller.  She strapped her in and smiled up at me.

“You know, we could both be called mom” She suggested, I chuckled, shaking my head.

“First of all, that would make for so many confusing parent days at the schools” I said.  “Besides the fact then she’d think Scott would also be her father and- yikes that would just be a mess” Allison pondered that for a moment, then laughed and nodded with me.

“You’re right, that’s too difficult.  I’ll stick with being the cool aunt” She winked and kneeled down to double check on Madi.

“I’d make sure you have everything but you’re always three steps ahead of me” I said with a small laugh, and Allison nodded in agreement.

“Okay well, Scott texted earlier he’s just outside the apartment in the car” She said, and I gave a slightly sad smile before crawling on the floor in front of Madi.

“Be good for Alli okay?” I said, before leaning forward and kissing her little nose.  “Muah!” She giggled, and I stood up again.  “Alright well, I guess I just wish you good luck” I shrugged, hugging Allison shortly.

“Bye honey”

“Bye Al” I waved slightly as she walked out of the apartment.

Now it was just me, and relaxation.  But being me, I had a schedule for the day.  It was eleven now, so I’d eat the breakfast Alli made me.  I’d sit in front of the television till 12:30, then go take a long bath.  Around 1:30 after soaking and giving myself a spa treatment, I’d read for a while, eating lunch around 2:00.  Madi got home at three, so I had a whole hour of free time.

The breakfast Allison made was superb, and I was on my last bite when there was a knock on the door.  I groaned.  Of course.  Of course my one day off.  It’s either Allison having forgotten something, or Lydia wanting to go shopping.  I wanted to pretend I was dead, or sleeping.  But being the kind person I (unfortunately) was, I went to answer the door.

“Lyd, I don’t wanna shop today-” 

“Hey, y/n” 

That was not Lydia.

That was

Stiles.

Fucking.

Stilinski.

HA EVIL CLIFF HANGER  im sorry guys i love you

tagged: @morganschiebel @bunnyboo10154 and @imissyoualittlemoreeveryday

thx again madi for proof reading!! @celestial-writing

side note: if stiles ever shows up on your doorstep just jump onto him and latch onto him and don’t let go not even when he asks what the duct tapes for.

xoxo ~ jordie

[fallen029]

Of Jewelry and  Misunderstandings

"You know, Natsu and Lucy went out on a date today."

No. Why would Laxus ever know that? Or care?

"Uh-huh."

"Well, I think of it as a date," Mira went on as she walked around his living room, picking up some. Somehow, he always managed to not do that. Like ever. "I mean, sure, Happy's going. And Gray. And Erza. And Lisanna. And I think Levy was tagging along too, but only because she was headed that way anyhow-"

"Uh-huh."

"But it's still definitely a date," Mira finished before glancing over at where he was stretched out on the couch, staring blankly up at the ceiling above him. "Don't you think, Lax?"

"Uh-huh."

"Of course," she kept going, because the demon always kept going, she had no off switch. "Sometimes I also like the thought of Lucy with Gray better. I mean, they're just so cute! He's always shirtless and she's always…not. It works, Lax."

"Uh-huh."

"But then Natsu, well, there's just something there, you know?"

No.

"Uh-huh."

"Any woman would be lucky to have him."

"Any woman?" he asked as, when she passed the couch, he reached out to grab her arm and hold her there. With a grin, Mirajane shook her head.

"You know what I mean."

"No, I don't."

"Not me, Lax," she said, allowing herself to be pulled down onto the couch with him. "Like…Lisanna for example."

"Mmmm."

"Or Erza. Have I ever told you about how I kinda can picture that?"

"Yes," he sighed. "Many times."

"Well, it's true. Natsu can basically be with anyone and it would work. Lucy too. They're interchangeable."

"Then why," he asked as she settled atop him, "would you waste them togheter?"

"I dunno," she admitted. "I just think they're cute. Don't you think they're cute? And I mean, the two of us are interchangeable, huh?"

"What are you talking about?"

"Lax, I could place you with tons of people."

"People?"

"Sure. Lucy-"

"What?"

"Cana-"

"No thanks."

"Freed-"

"Now you're just playing with me."

She giggled. "And I could be with tons of people too. I-"

"No."

"No?"

"No," he said with a definite tone then that made her smile, staring at him. Shifting on the couch, he held her close as he said, "We don't belong with others, demon. We belong together."

"Oh, dragon."

"It's the truth. There is no changing. For the Salamander and Lucy, fine, but me and you? Someone'd have to be crazy not to see that. Not to get that. And to think that anything could ever stand between that."

When she leaned up to kiss him, she stopped for a moment, taking a sniff. "You smell really good, dragon."

Of course he did. He'd spent an hour, at least, preparing for her arrival.

"Oy, boss," Bickslow had complained earlier that day as he sat around, watching the man get ready. "Where are you and your lady goin', huh? That you gotta get all fancy?"

"We're not going anywhere," he grumbled from the bathroom. It was right off the living room and, as he rarely had any shame, he'd left the door opened while he got ready. He was having a conversation anyways. "I do this whenever I plan on seein' my demon. She likes me spiffy."

"Spiffy, huh?" Elfman remarked from where he too was in the living room. "I always struck Mira as, I dunno, liking her guys manly."

Freed was there too, actually in the bathroom, helping decide on which cologne to go with that night. To his idol, he whispered, "Why is he here again?"

"The demon's orders," Laxus grumbled in response. "I gotta hang out with him twice a week."

"And if you don't?"

"Then I don't get the demon's little twice a week present."

Freed blinked. "She buys you things, I take it?"

"Oh, she does a lot more than buys me things."

"I don't-"

"Just drop it," he growled then, figuring the other guy was purposely trying to misdirect him. "And pick one already. Which smells better?"

"Well, what are the two of you doing today?"

"Hmmm. Probably laying around the apartment, having her cook me something, and then screwing or something. Why? Does that affect anything?"

"No," he said as he handed the guy one of the cologne bottles. "I was just trying to figure out if I was going to be allowed to stay or-"

"No, Freed," he grumbled. "You and Bickslow are going out together, I thought."

"If we have to-"

"We have to," Bickslow called from the other room. "I'm feelin' frisky! Let's get risky!"

"Frisky," his dolls that roamed around sang. "Risky."

"Yeah, you're taking him the hell out of my apartment soon," Laxus said, glaring out the doorway and over at the couch. "You idiot."

"Oy, boss, you're hurting my feelin's! I-"

"Not you," he growled at Bickslow. "Him."

Craning his neck, Freed glanced out there to. "Um…Elfman?"

"Hmmm?"

"Are you…stealing things from Laxus?"

"Of course not," he grumbled from where he was, over at the man's coffee table, shoving something in his pocket. "Men don't steal!"

"Then what are you-"

"It's Ever's," he said as Laxus just glared over at him.

"What is it?" he asked. "And Bickslow, he's takin' shit from my place right in front of you. The hell are you doin'?"

"Uh, boss, I'm tryin' to rest a bit before I get out there and get frisky, yeah? So maybe you can stop putting so much pressure on me-"

"Look you little helmet wearing freak-"

"It's a ring," Elfman told them all then. "She said she took it off for…for�� Hey!"

"What?" Bickslow asked, cuddling back into the couch as the man suddenly got irate. "What's wrong?"

"Why," the muscular growled as he headed over to the open bathroom door, "did Ever take her ring off in your apartment, Laxus?"

"I don't know! Why would I know?"

"I am confused," Freed said slowly. "It is not a wedding ring. Just a regular ring, yes? So why would it matter where she took it off?"

"Because," he went on, "it…she… She shouldn't be taking anything off! Not here! Not with you!"

"Sheesh, I agree with you," Laxus complained before spritzing his neck. The demon liked when he smelled delicious. And he wanted to be good enough to eat. Or maybe just taste. "I've seen all of Ever that I need to, thanks. I am also very happy with the demon so-"

"You're sleeping with my sister and my girlfriend?"

"When did I say that?"

"You said it with your eyes!"

"We're not even facing one another!"

"We don't need to be!"

"For you to see my eyes? Damn straight we do!"

"You're all yelling," Bickslow complained from the living room. "While I'm trying to rest."

"Bickslow," Laxus growled then. "You are not getting frisky. At all. With anyone. Never. Not gonna happen. So get the hell over it and shut the hell up!"

"Oy, boss. That hurts."

Freed just shook his head. "Laxus, if we are going to style your hair before Mirajane shows up-"

"I have styled it!"

The other man just gave him a look. "And you're expecting something out of her tonight with…whatever it is you've done with your hair?"

"I'm trying a new look, okay?"

"And that involves…what now?"

Laxus sent the man a glare. "It's kinda, you know, a spiky, weird-"

"No." Elfman lost his edge for the moment. "It just looks like bed head."

"It's supposed to! It's messy, but not too messy-"

"It's just bad," Freed told him. "Let me-"

"No! It's my hair! And it's my apartment! And Ever's my friend, Elfman. So if I want her to strip, damn it, she will."

"What?" Bickslow was back into the conversation then. "You've been sleeping with Ever behind our backs? Freed, I'm so hurt for you. How could she do this to us?"

"He is clearly being facetious, Bick- What do you mean you feel sorry for me?"

"Well."

"Well what?"

"Well."

"What-"

"Just well, Freed!"

"I need you all out of here," Laxus said with a long sigh then. "Now. Right now. All of you. Bye, Freed. Bye, Bickslow. And Elfman, tell your damn girlfriend not to leave shit here if she can't come get it for herself."

"She won't be back here anyhow!"

"Oh, I bet she will."

"I bet she won't."

"I bet she-"

"And I bet when I tell Mirajane that you just said that you have Ever strip over here-"

"I wasn't serious! And do men go tell their sisters when-"

"No! And I was just betting. I'm not telling her. I can handle you myself!"

"Oh, you can? Really, Elfboy, you can handle this? Huh? Because I bet you can't. And I bet when I send your ass home in bandages, your precious little Ever-"

"Laxus?"

"What, Freed?" he growled, glaring over at him then.

Sheepishly, he reminded, "You're speaking to the younger brother of the woman that you're having over tonight. Just to remind you."

He had to take a moment too, to compose himself, before saying simply, "I'm not talking to anyone anymore. All of you, out."

"What? You need me to-"

"Boss-"

"We're not finished-"

"You, Elfman, before I wring your thick neck," he growled, "and you, Bickslow, before I put you in an eternal rest. And, Freed, just…stop trying to make me over! It won't work! I like my hair this way. Your help is no help at all. Just go!"

"Oy, boss, cut deep why don't you?"

"Men don't have meltdowns, you know!"

"I will go, Laxus, but honestly, do something about your hair. If only for your benefit."

"Just get out!"

And he had to cool down again, after they left. Then, when he took a second glance in the mirror, he saw just how bad his hair was and had to try again. Sigh. Those stupid…guys. Friends. Whatever they were to him. Stalkers was probably closer. For Freed and Bickslow. Constant annoyance was more Elfman's angle.

That felt like forever ago then though. At the moment, he had the demon all snuggled up real nice to him and she was sniffing him and damn if he hadn't made the right cologne choice.

"Thanks, demon," he said as she kissed his neck. "You know, I do all this for you. Always for you. I love you."

"Aw."

"You know what else I did? Just for you?"

"What?"

"In the kitchen," he began.

"Yeah? What?"

"I bought some chicken for you to fry up for dinner for us."

For some reason, she didn't seem all that excited by that.

"Is that it?"

"Of course not. What do you take me for, demon?"

"Oh." She giggled. "What else did you buy me then?"

"There's some vegetables in there too for you to cook." He held up an arm and flex. "This ain't all just meat, babe, that made this. It- What's wrong?"

She just stared at him with a crumbled face. "You said that you got me something, but all it was were things to make for you. You got my hopes all up, Lax, and then-"

"Oh, demon, don't cry." He gave her a grin before shifting. "I bought you something. Right over here. Sat it right next to the couch. On the table. And…it's not under this magazine…or by this cup…or…uh…"

"Laxus-"

"Fuck!"

"Laxus! No cursing!"

He couldn't help it. That stupid little-

"Your brother stole your gift!"

"What?"

"Yeah." Laxus gently shoved her off before moving to stand and look over the coffee table. "That stupid-"

"How did he-"

"He said that Ever left a ring or something over here," he grumbled as he checked the table, just in case. "I figured the dope would have realized that if she did, it wouldn't be in a fucking box, but apparently-"

"You bought me jewelry?"

"I bought you a ring, dummy."

"Laxus!"

Growling, he got out, "I'm sorry, demon, but I'm a little-"

"Frazzled?"

"…Sure. The point is that your brother has your engagement ring and-"

"My brother has my what?"

"Your ring! Your-"

She was standing there next to him too then, eyes wide. "Y-You bought me an engagement-"

"What other type of ring does a man buy for a woman," he growled, turning to face her. When he saw the look on her face, he just reached out to grab her face in his hands and press a kiss to her forehead. "You sexy little demon. And look, I would love to go over this in full-"

"Wait, you were going to propose just now?" She didn't sound as enthused, some of the thrill dying down. "After just asking me to make you dinner?"

"Uh, yeah. I mean, I was thinking maybe after dinner or sex or something, but-"

"You didn't…plan something? Or-"

"Plan? Demon, I bought a freaking ring. What more do you want from me?"

"Did you even tell anyone? Or talk about it? With your friends?"

"Heck no! Bickslow would have spoiled it, Ever would have hated it, and Freed would have tried to have you killed."

"He would have what?"

"Mira-"

Pushing that from her mind, she said, "I just think that you could have put some thought into-"

"Look." He patted her on the head. "I would love to discuss all this silly little thoughts in your head right now-"

"They're not silly! You should take time and plan a proposal, not just-"

"But," he went on, "I got a ring to track down."

Then he leaned down to nuzzle her head before turning to walk off.

"Laxus-"

"You stay here. I got-"

"Laxus, are you in there?"

A sudden knock at the door startled them both. Laxus just frowned.

"That sounds like Ever," Mirajane whispered. "And she sounds excited."

He paled. "You don't think-"

"I have something to show you!"

"Laxus, that woman has my ring."

"Yeah, I gathered that, demon."

"Well, get it back!"

"Gah, demon, you're about to not get it. Not even an I do yet and already you're nagging."

"Laxus-"

"I'm goiin', I'm goin'."

When he opened the door, it was to be practically tackled by Evergreen.

"What is your prob-"

"Elfman proposed to me!"

"Why the hell would you be happy about that? I'd run to the hills."

Elfman, who was behind them, just forced his way into the apartment before going over to his glaring sister.

"I messed up," he whispered.

"I know."

"No, Mira, you don't. I didn't, like, do this without telling you first if that's why you're-"

"It's not."

"Then what-"

"Mira, look!" Ever was finished with the clearly critical Laxus and headed over to her, holding out her hand. "Isn't it beautiful?"

Mirajane just stared at the ring though, mainly the diamond, hardly able to speak. "Oh. It's…amazing. Let me-"

"Yeah," Ever sighed, still showing it off. "But the band is a bit big. It's like Elf thought I had huge fingers or something."

Mirajane blinked. Then she glared at the other woman. "I'm sure that is not what he thought."

"I think it is. I mean, why else would he-"

"Elfman." Laxus didn't feel like getting in between the women at the moment. "Can I speak with-"

"Yes, please, let's talk!"

Laxus' glare was full of malice as they rushed off to the kitchen.

"What the hell, Elfman? You-"

"How come you didn't tell me you were proposing to Mirajane? You have to ask another man before you ask his sister to marry you. It's a thing!"

"It is not a thing," he hissed.

"It is too."

"It is not."

"Is too."

"Is-"

"And now," Elfman went on, voice low, but dark, "Ever thinks that I'm-"

"I know."

"And I'm not!"

"I know."

"I can't get married."

"I know."

"I- Wait. Why do you know that?"

"Because, Elfboy, I know that you're not good enough to marry Evergreen. You-"

"How dare you?"

"Very easily!"

"Just for that, I'm marrying her!"

"No, you're not."

"Yes, I am."

"Elfman-"

"I'm doing it!"

"Fine! I don't care! Not really!"

"Great!"

"Super! But you're not doing it with my damn ring."

"Watch me."

"Elfboy- You get back here!"

He was heading back into the living room then and, without much of a choice, Laxus headed after him.

"Hey, Ever," Elfman greeted as she grinned up at him. Laxus would admit, he'd never seen her so happy to see him before. "Me and Laxus just talked about it and, guess what?"

"What?"

"He wants to be my best man."

"No way!"

No, really, no way. Sigh. Laxus had to hand it to the lout; he wasn't as stupid as he appeared. He knew saying it in front of Evergreen cemented it in there. Gah! First he hijacked his ring, now he was punishing him too?

Since when did Elfman get the upper hand anyhow?

Now, sure, Laxus knew that he could easily burst Ever's happy little bubbles, but…even though he tried hard to hide it, he did love the Thunder Legion. They were his people. His most loyal followers (in Laxus' mind, everyone else was just a regular follower who didn't realize they were following him just yet). He couldn't hurt her.

"Demon." He went to grab her arm and pull her away from the other couple. She was still shooting daggers at Ever though. Leaning down, he whispered in her ear, "We have a problem."

"Yeah, I know. She's wearing my-"

"Not that," he said, making her glance up at her. "Look, your brother is mad at me and... What if I just buy you a new ring? Huh? You can even pick it out. Any one you want. Within reason, I mean, but-"

"No, Laxus. That is my ring and I want it!"

"Mira-"

"Ever," she called over to the other woman then, gaze still icy. She didn't want to come right out and ruin the moment or anything, but hell, she was going to have to do something. "How did Elfman…you know, propose?"

"It was so cute." She didn't sound like herself, at all, and it made Laxus wanna puke. "He pretended like he got the necklace that I left over at Laxus' for me and then just gave me this black box that was obviously a ring box and I-"

"A necklace." Laxus couldn't help it. "You were over here and you didn't get a necklace, Elfboy, you got-"

"You keep quiet, you filthy dragon!"

"Only the demon can call me dragon! And filthy."

Mirajane glanced at her boyfriend. "What context would I ever call you fil-"

"Trust me, demon, we'll get there."

"What," Ever hissed, glancing between Elfman and Laxus, "is going on?"

"Nothing," Laxus grumbled. "Just-"

"Good." She almost sounded like she was the one in control, Evergreen did. It was enough to shock Laxus into silence. "I need to go tell-"

"I can't do this, Laxus," Mira said loudly then. "I can't."

"Mira, I will get you another-"

"That is my ring and I want it!"

"You sound bratty."

"I don't care. I hardly ever want anything, but dang it, Laxus, I want my ring!"

That made Ever stop her stride to the door. Looking back over at Mirajane, she repeated, "Your what?"

"Oh geez." Elfman looked ready to faint. "Uh, Ever, did I ever show you how manly the front of Laxus' apartment building is? Let's go-"

"Who the hell would that distract?" Laxus complained. "Other than you?"

"Hey! I'm trying, okay? I-"

"What," Ever said then, looking to her boyfriend, "is going on?"

"W-Well-"

"That's my ring." Mirajane tried her hardest to look annoyed, but with her goofy bangs up in that pony tail and her usually posture, it was hard. "And I want it. Laxus bought it for me."

"He what?"

"This is what I wanted to avoid."

"Avoid?" Laxus repeated. "Elfman, you're the one that made it get this far!"

"I'm not good under pressure, alright?"

"No fucking kidding."

"Elfman." Evergreen turned to fully face him then. "What's going on? Did you not…buy this?"

"No," he admitted. "Ever, I didn't even really mean to ask you to marry me. There's so much that goes on in my head constantly."

"No kidding," Laxus grumbled.

"And I got a little mixed up," he went on. "I thought that you left a ring here, not a necklace, and I went to find it."

"You thought that she left a ring? And even put it in a box?" Even Mirajane frowned. "Elf-"

"Sometimes I don't think," he said then with a frown though he was still staring at his girlfriend. "And Ever, I never meant to hurt you, but I can't-"

"You didn't propose then?"

"No," he sighed. "I didn't."

"Oh, thank goodness." She literally about dropped then, her body become so relaxed. She even moved to pull the engagement ring right off. "Elf, I like you, like a lot, but I was already trying to plan how I was going to stand you up at the alter and still get all the wedding gifts."

His frown deepened. "You what?"

"I was excited by how nice the ring is and that you care about me, but Elfman, I can't be married. I can't even keep a pet! And I'm not a very good friend. Or girlfriend. Could you imagine me as a wife? I- Hey, Mira, you could try not-"

"It's mine," the demon said simply as she came to snatch the piece of jewelry from the other woman's hand. "So give it to me."

"Here, you stupid- Hey! Wait!" Evergreen looked to her idol then. "L-Laxus? Are you asking Mira to-"

But his eyes were completely focused on his girlfriend then, her own staring heavily down at her newest prized possession.

"Demon," he started, the sound of his voice making her look up. Coming closer with a grin, he reached out to tap her nose gently. "I screwed this all up, I know, but that's our life, you know? Everything's one big screw up after another. And most of them turn out for the better. But if you want me to try again, plan some sorta…whatever the heck you think people do for proposals, well, I'll-"

"Oh, Laxus, I can't even… Yes. To the proposal. I-"

"Well, I didn't really ask yet, but uh, demon, would you…um…well, marry me? Is that good enough? Or do you want me to ask you some other way? Because- Oof!"

Elfman snickered as Mirajane literally tackled the dragon to the ground in a way that Ever hadn't even come close to.

"I love you, dragon." Mirajane was straddling his stomach too, staring down at him with big eyes. "I just… I can't believe this! My night is perfect. It-"

"Mine is too," he breathed, grinning slightly as he stared up at her. "Other than, like, the fact that you two dopes are still here-"

"My sister is so manly!" Elfman wiped at his eyes. "She takes disappointments like a man!"

"Disappointment?" Laxus mumbled. "Wha- Hey! Are you calling me a disappointment? You stupid-"

Evergreen sniffled. "It's like watching you grow up, Laxus, finally, completely. And I just…I mean, I wish it was to someone else, but what can you do?"

He just kept glaring at Elfman. "Right back at you, Ever."

That brought her emotions back into check. Glaring at Laxus then, she walked around him and Mira and into the bathroom before returning with the necklace that she'd no doubt told Elfman about. With that in hand, she went to grab her boyfriend's other one and drag him out.

"Don't be seduced by all this though, sis." Elfman was coming back to his senses, apparently. "I don't want him as a brother."

"I won't ever be your brother," Laxus growled in response. "No matter what."

"You-"

"Goodbye, Elfman," Mira sang as she sat back some atop Laxus, though that was more to stare down at the ring she'd put on her finger. She had no idea what Ever was talking about. It fit perfectly. "See you later."

"We have some things to talk about anyhow," Ever hissed to him as they left.

"Like what?"

"Like, uh, gee, how you just embarrassed me!"

"Oh. No, I don't really feel like talking about that."

After the front door shut behind them, Laxus moved to rest his hands on Mira's hips.

"You like your ring then, I take it, demon?"

"Yes, Laxus. Oh, yes. I love it. I love you."

"And you're really going to love being my woman, huh? For real now?"

"Yes!"

"That's great." He patted her hips with a grin. "First course of action is, you know, getting to work on that dinner I was talkin' about before."

That made her smile drop some. "Are you…serious?"

"Uh, yeah, demon. My stomach doesn't just stop growlin' for special occasions." Then, reading her facial expression like a pro, he grinned sheepishly. "Err, uh, you know, I could make dinner tonight or some-"

"That would be great!" Her grin was back. Getting off him then and back to her feet, she said, "I love you."

Yeah. So long as he wasn't asking for food, apparently…

Standing himself then, he dusted himself off before reaching out to cup her cheeks. "I love you too, demon. And I can't wait to make you Mrs. Laxus Dreyar."

"Me neither," she giggled. "Mr. Laxus Dreyar."

"Although," he said as he leaned down to kiss her head, "that's mainly because I hate you sharing the same last name as your idiot brother."

"Laxus."

"Well."

[pluckyredhead]

Here's a $20 donation to the ACLU: imgurcom/cNTrU6P for the prompt: how about a barry/cisco holidays fic with barry being really sappy and doing over-the-top things for cisco? (bonus points for creative use of powers?)

This took SO LONG, I’m so sorry! But here it is! Obviously the holidays have passed us by so I took some liberties:

Barry was acting weird.

“Hey, you’re gonna be at the lab on your birthday, right?” he’d asked Cisco on Monday, fidgeting with one of Caitlin’s pencils until it became a yellow blur in his fingers.

“Considering it’s a Thursday, which is traditionally a weekday, yeah, that was the plan,” Cisco said. “Is that a problem or something?”

The pencil burst into flame; Barry yelped and dropped it. “Yeah! Yeah, of course, work birthdays are the best birthdays. It’s cool. I’ll see you later.”

He blitzed out of the room.

Caitlin walked in and frowned. “Why is there a small fire on my desk?”

*

“If you could pick one food to eat for the rest of your life, nutritional value be damned, what would it be?” Barry asked on Tuesday, bouncing on the balls of his feet like he was about to set a long jump record.

Cisco paused the simulation video he was running and looked up at the ceiling to think. “Pancakes. Really good ones, with the lacy edges and lots of real maple syrup.”

“Cool,” Barry said. “Oh, hey, I gotta go.” He vanished in a burst of air, then reappeared just as quickly. “Hey. Bacon on the side?”

“Obviously.”

“Great. Bye.” And he was gone again.

H.R. tilted his head at Cisco. “Is he okay?”

Cisco started up his video again. “Honestly, I’ve given up wondering.”

*

“Hey, what’s your favorite color?” Barry asked.

“Is this really the time to be asking me this?” Cisco asked, then winced as security footage showed Barry zipping out of the way of a hail of bullets just in time.

Barry wove gracefully through the eight heavily armed bank robbers like a prima ballerina through a field of stupefied water buffalo. “It just occurred to me.”

“You couldn’t figure it out? I picked it for your suit. Bogey on your six, by the way.”

Barry spun, ducked, and knocked out his attacker with a much sweeter right hook than he would’ve thrown a year ago. “Aw, really?”

“I mean also red’s the color of speed and, and firetrucks and...I don’t know, Lightning McQueen, but yeah. Don’t be too flattered.” The fact that Barry happened to look even more like some unreal sylphan creature in Cisco’s favorite color was just a coincidence, and not one Cisco planned on sharing out loud.

“I like red too,” Barry said warmly.

Julian leaned in towards the mic, shoving Cisco out of the way. “If you two are through flirting, maybe Barry could wrap this up so that the CCPD can move in?”

Cisco elbowed him as Barry spluttered. “Aw, Julian, I can flirt with you too if you’re feeling left out,” he said, and hoped no one noticed how flushed his face had just gotten.

*

All of Barry’s weird jumpy questions made sense on Thursday.

“Well, I’ll be darned,” Cisco said as he walked into the lab. The entire place was festooned in red balloons and streamers, with a huge sign hanging over Cisco’s workstation reading “HAPPY BIRTHDAY CISCO” in giant glittery red letters. There was a birthday cake in pride of place on the center of the table, but it almost disappeared under the plates and plates heaped with towers of buttery, syrupy pancakes and surrounded by endless rashers of bacon.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY!” everyone - wow, everyone - crowed, H.R. through a mouthful of bacon.

“Thanks, guys!” Cisco said. “You did all this for me?”

“Well, Barry, mostly,” Caitlin said, stepping forward to give Cisco a hug. “The rest of us were just supposed to be here on time.”

Cisco looked over Caitlin’s shoulder to where Barry was rubbing the back of his neck and kicking at the ground. “Well, you know, birthdays only happen once a year. And. It.” He shrugged as if the last two words had been coherent and universally relatable sentences. “Who doesn’t like pancakes, right?”

“Who indeed,” H.R. cut in before Cisco could call Barry on his weird diffidence. “You know, this reminds me of something that happened on my Earth, don’t think it happened here, the great Syrup Strike of 1987…”

Cisco disentangled himself from Caitlin and went to get a plate of pancakes and bacon before H.R. put him off of them forever with whatever weirdo story he was about to tell.

It was safe to say no one got much science or superheroics done that day. H.R. ate too much sugar and fell asleep under a desk. Jesse and Wally went off together somewhere, giggling, and Joe, Iris, and Julian all got called in for work-related issues. Even Caitlin made her excuses early - she was having an attempt at a reconciliatory dinner with her mom and didn’t want to be too full to eat.

Barry refused to let Cisco clean up on his birthday, so Cisco perched on a desk and picked at the last of the bacon while Barry blitzed around the room in a frenzy of tidying. Within minutes the lab was clean - not to the original Wells’s standards, but certainly more spotless than any room at Cisco’s place.

“I can’t believe you did all this for me, man,” Cisco said as Barry slowed to a normal pace.

“Yeah, well.” Barry was flushed, but that might have just been from the cleaning. There was red glitter in his hair. “You’re my best friend. And things have been...I don’t know. You’re special to me and I wanted to make sure we were okay.”

Cisco felt his ears heat up. You’re special to me. He couldn’t believe he was so swoony over such a cheesy Hallmark statement, but “cheesy Hallmark” was so very Barry, and Cisco had been swoony over Barry since approximately four seconds after Barry woke up from his coma.

He hopped down from the desk. “You’re special to me too,” he said, and reached out to pull Barry into an affectionate bro-hug -

- and Barry leaned down and kissed him.

Cisco froze, startled, and Barry jerked back. “Sorry!” he said. “I thought - I didn’t mean to - I thought you were going for a kiss and I - uh, I’ll just go now.”

He turned and would have zipped away if Cisco hadn’t rallied and managed to vibe the doors until they shook closed. “Wait!” he said. “Wait. Can you just - wait? For a second?”

Barry turned to face him, his face as red as his costume. “I really am sorry, Cisco,” he said.

Cisco shook his head - not refusing his apology, just trying to make sense of this. “You thought I was going to kiss you?” Barry nodded miserably. “So were you kissing me back to be polite, or…?”

“Not…” Barry sighed. “Not just to be polite.”

“So…” Cisco glanced at the remnants of the cake, the decorations stuffed into a garbage bag by the doors, Barry’s pink cheeks and shifty eyes. “So you did all of this because you like me.”

“No!” Barry said quickly. “I mean, I didn’t - you’re my friend, Cisco. That’s true no matter what.” He glanced at the ceiling. “The other part...might be true too.”

Cisco nodded slowly, taking this in. Then he took a step towards Barry.

“I’m gonna make this really clear,” he said. Barry swallowed, looking like he was facing a firing squad. “I’m going in for a kiss this time.”

Barry stared at him. Then he absolutely lit up.

“Happy birthday, Cisco,” he murmured as he stepped in and gave Cisco a real, solid, superhero-style kiss.

Cisco pulled back and grinned at him. “You know what?” he said. “It really, really is.”