#i just love how anna looked more like her aunt than her own mom ���

[andrxsmarty]

"A little bit. Moving is always tough especially when you're moving away from what you know but I think with time we got used to it. At least for me, I was two years older than my brother and sister, it was easier to adapt. I'd had experience with moving before. When I turned two my mom moved us from Dulac to Baton Rouge when she was expecting my baby siblings. I feel like I was the one who kept them from falling apart most days. Hawaii wasn't so different climate wise and we at least had body of water to remind us of home. We made do with what we had. It wasn't all bad you know, our aunt Linda made sure we got a good childhood. You've met her." Mel laughed thinking back to their whacky aunt. "It took some time to adjust but it then became home and the place our kids know as home."

Mel didn't even react as it seemed she and Charlie shared a little more in common. Well, she and the mother of his first child. "First, I'm so sorry for your loss. It's tough but you got a pretty good thing out of it. Secondly, I kind of know the thought process behind not telling the father of your child they even existed. But through that, Orion got the best deal. Having you and your wife love him like you do." It was all a child needed to be honest. Two loving parents willing to go above and beyond for them. "Thirdly, the best advice I got was never to listen to advice. Parenting has no rulebook. It is different for everyone. Shutting out other peoples opinions is the best thing you can do. You'll fumble and think you've ruined your parenting record but really, it's how you learn. It's also where you see how much unconditional love your child gives you. Can't tell you how many times I thought I was the world's worst mother and yet, my kid still looked at me like I hung the moon. All you can do is your best because your best to them is enough."

"Of course," she nodded with a smile. "We take care of our own. I can't say you won't worry about her anymore but at least you'll know she won't be out there without anyone watching out for her best interest too. You and your family." Mel chewed her lip and chuckled. "I can see the reasoning was noble. We did that to my brother once and then we got forbidden from setting him up again. Sometimes gotta let two stubborn heads find each other."

Making her way inside she removed a piece of wood to the side and made sure no nails were scattered around before opening the door and heading right down to the kitchen. "You've got a long hallway that has two sides. One for the living room and the other the kitchen. The cupboards need a little work but still work. The tiles can be changed too which isn't a problem. The island can be taken out too but that's also to whatever is your liking. Actually, yes. When I was pregnant I needed a project. I couldn't sit still for the life of me. Much to my husband's annoyance so Andy set me up in his office. He needed help with the office. Answering calls and the like so I did that. Once I wobbled myself down to one of his sites when he was about to send in the renovating teams in. I came along and fell in love with it. I'm just thankful he didn't put a fight on it or told his brother that I was actually not sitting down. It woke up my love for real estate without having the stresses it came with." she smiled and turned the corner to the living room. "This is another entryway to the living room. "Trust me it was hard but not so much anymore. My brother in law built all of our homes. So we each got to incorporate the things we loved from each open house we went to and he just built our dream homes. Can't want for something when you already have a dream house. I can appreciate the new ones that go on the market without feeling like I'm missing out. If this one is missing anything once you and Anna see it. I'm sure your dream place could become a reality."

"Not sure on California or Georgia, you'll have to ask Andy about that. He's the one that would break it down for you. But Louisiana, there is an office space in New Orleans. It has two floors. Located at Common Street and Gravier street. It has a lot of pedestrian traffic which makes it easily an ideal spot. Pretty sure the tenant pays for electricity and water, sewer and trash are all included. The terms are negotiable though. That's the one I know of because it's two blocks from my mother's company. Are you planning on expanding?"

"Never thought of my accent as a quirk before." Charlie chuckled. "And Ilford actually. A town just outside of London. Elizabeth said your family was from Louisiana. Hawaii seems a complete opposite of it. Was it hard to adapt?'

Meli wasn't wrong, Charlie had come to be thankful for all the miracles in his life. No matter how small or big they were. Alyssa was the newest one to add to that list. "Well," He began a bit bashful, while he loved Orion, he still felt a sliver of shame for not knowing. " I wasn't there when Orion was born. His mother and I weren't very serious and then she moved away. Never told me she was pregnant. She passed away and he came to live with me when he was four. It was a shock to say the least to my wife and I. So I am open for any pointers if you got them." He had read every baby book and attended every class he could to prepare but he still felt unequipped.

"I like that. As much as she tries to fight it, she does need someone to watch over her. That means a lot." A full belly laugh came from him as he thought about the dates that he had tried setting her up on. "It was. I should have but I just thought she just needed a nudge, I didn't want her to be alone." It wasn't his finest moment but he had done it out of love. After his life was on track and settled with Anna, he just wanted the same for her.

As she began to dial, he nodded to let her know that he understood and listened as she talked more about the property with who he assumed was her brother in law. The more he heard about it, the more he was falling love with the property and possibilities of it. "Lead the way. Tell me, is setting people up with homes something you always wanted to do? Because, you really have a knack for it. I am really liking this place. How do you not want to buy every other home you see potential in?" He did find it rather uncanny that even if they didn't know each other for long, she seemed to have known exactly what he needed. There was also the fact that he was thinking about opening another office elsewhere now that he saw how well his best friend did setting up this one. "I'm sure you probably have homes in more places than once. Know anothing about the housing or perhaps office spaces in California or Georgia or Tennessee?"

[annab-nana]

hi anna! could i get owning a journal and filling it with your favourite moments of the season so you won't forget about them because they will become moments from your past one day so they are important with topper. please and thank you! also i hope you’re doing well. mwah!!🤍🤍

this sounds so frickin' cute rachel!! i'm so excited to write this :)))

warnings: not proofread, mom!reader and dad!topper

❀ masterlist ❀

"mommy, what's this?" taylor inquired, a cute curious look on her face as she presented the book to you. at first, you were confused, but then you realized what it was when you brushed your hand over the cover to rid it of some of the dust it had collected.

"oh, this is a journal i made the winter i met your daddy. why don't you go get him and we can look through it together, yeah?" you asked your daughter who was more than happy to fetch her father. once she was gone, you looked back down to the book and felt a warmth swirl within you at the memories flooding your brain.

when you opened it, your eyes first landed on the polaroid picture of you and sarah standing in front of the fountain on campus and the one right behind it of you both with the outer banks sign in the background.

december 11th

there was a lot of driving done today, but i am so excited to see how christmas is done in north carolina and to spend winter break down here. sarah has told me so much about the outer banks and her friends and family here. i haven't got to meet many people but it's nice to put some faces to the names i've heard her say repeatedly. wheezie is my favorite of her family members so far. i can tell ward's personality is all for show and rose seems to follow his lead. rafe's a little standoffish, but his friend seems nice. it doesn't hurt that he's cute too.

"tay says there's a super duper important book that we're gonna read together," topper says, pulling you from your reading. he sits down beside you before hoisting the small girl up into his lap. "what's this?"

you never shared these in depth with topper. you thought they were kind of cringey to have someone else read, but he did know you used to journal a lot in high school and college. you felt like if you were going to share one, it'd be this one.

"the journal from the winter we met." topper visibly lit up at that and leaned closer to get a better look. you held up the pictures for taylor and him both to see. "you know who that is, don't you, tay?"

she moved a smidge to get ever so slightly closer before her features morphed into excited recognition. "aunt sarah and mommy!"

"is our first kiss in here?" topper whispered to you. taylor was in the mommy-and-daddy-kissing-is-gross stage, so whispering was his attempt to talk to you and only you.

"oh, kelce's christmas party? yeah, i wrote about that," you answered while flipping to the pages on that night. another pair of pictures sat between those pages.

"aunt kie and uncle pope," taylor stated when she spotted the image of you, kiara, pope, and sarah and made grabby hands for it which you offered to her shortly.

"sarah took this one," you shared while holding up the photo of you and topper. your eyes were nearly shut due to your wide smile while topper held you to him with an arm around your waist. he too wore a giant grin, but his eyes were settled on you.

"you look pretty, mommy," taylor told you when she switched out the picture she held for the one you had.

"yeah," topper agreed while gazing into your eyes, just as much in love with you now as he was then, "she always looks pretty."

remember to support writers & reblog :)

turn on notifications for @annab-library to be notified when i post something new!

[chrisodonline]

I'm trying something new where I watch the show on my iPad to see if I pay more attention because the screen is smaller and closer. We'll see if it helps. Right now I'm watching this very different cold opening. Tons of people. So many potential non-name-in-credits casualties. I feel like this is the opening flashback in a John Cena movie. I want to note I have never actually seen a John Cena movie. I have only seen him on PSYCH and PEACEMAKER. But I just think I'm right on this. My gut tells me I am.

Super quick flashing credits! Someone got paid a lot of money to make it look crappy. I always commend people who manage to get the bucks with such bad work. Like, maybe THEY are the actual geniuses. 

Deeks is trying to be the Mayor of Flavortown! Deeks = lots of protein for breakfast. Grandma Bertie is like, "SUGAR! SUGAR!"

Bertie D. is dropping ALL THE SHADE and Kensi isn't even there.

"I don't speak Spanish but I know that means." BERTIE. I love you.

Hahaha, Sam's comment about needing a really good satellite to pick up someone as small as Hetty.

I think Sam asked a very good question. "Why is this in the boatshed?" It was very professional when you know he wanted to say, "I'm tired of this motherf@!&%@*$ snake in this motherf@!&%@*$ boatshed! How dare you bring it to a professional work environment!"

"I picked it up on the way to work." As if that's still okay. Oh, G. I love you. I mean, Anna could have easily watched it if it truly needs TLC. She's Jake's future Aunt. OMG. Can she be Aunt-asia??? 

The fact that G smirked knowing that Sam was not going to like what was under the blanket. He totally planned it. I AM scared of snakes, though. More than dislike.

Why all these emotions so early??? Deeks says he's sorry Rosa's bio!mom isn't here and that he would have loved to meet her. And Rosa says she would have liked him.  😭😭😭

And he tells her he loves her, and then apologizes for her current caregiver. I mean, that’s nice she has someone. We were pretty much on our own starting in middle school in my house, sick or not. “Here’s some Sprite, Saltines, and a bucket. Good luck.”

Roberta just trespassing all over the place. And getting horny on main with those DVDs.

[somewhatgreatexpectations]

I'll Stand By You (Wanda Maximoff/ Reader)

Hello! We've reached Halloween in Westview. I hope you all enjoy!

Songs used: "I'll Stand By You" by The Pretenders (1994) and "This I Promise You" by NSYNC (2000)

Summary: Westview is slowly falling apart as Wanda worries reader is drifting away. With some sibling chaos. I'm bad at summaries. :)

With a sigh, you began making your way downstairs, following the sounds of the commotion. Wearily tugging at the skin-tight suit that you couldn’t seem to avoid wearing for the day.

“Woah, smokin’ costume, sis-in-law!” You heard Pietro whistle which only made you sigh again in exasperation. “If you weren’t already married to witchy over here…” He trailed off as he leaned against the wall.

You rolled your eyes, biting back a chuckle when you saw Anna smack his shoulder. “That’s my sister you’re talking to.” She warned, glaring at Pietro who just laughed in response.

“You and Mom look nice, Momma.” Billy said sweetly with a smile which you easily returned. Reaching over to affectionately ruffle his hair.

“Yeah, Mom is old Red Riding Hood and you’re old green riding hood, Momma.” Charlie said with a laugh, looking at Pietro for approval who merely held up a hand for a high five. You clutched your chest to feign hurt and gave Anna a disbelieving stare when she began to laugh as well.

Much to your annoyance Pietro then turned his attention back to you. “Let me guess, you’re a… woodland fairy queen? Or the woman of my dreams?” He finished with a wiggle of his eyebrows.

“Pietro.” Wanda warned. Anna smacked him in the back of the head.

“Yes, that’s exactly what I was going for, Pietro. I live to visually please you.” You quipped back sarcastically.

Before he could say anything else, Wanda walked over to you. Leaning in and pressing a kiss to your lips which you shortly returned. “Thank you for humoring me and wearing this… dramatic get-up, honey.”

“Well, there were no other clothes in my closet, so…” You replied flatly, watching the way Wanda’s smile faltered. Unable to stand seeing the look on her face, you attempted to lighten your tone. “I knew you had a thing for me in tights.”

Her shoulders relaxed when you posed dramatically and sent a teasing smile her way. “I have a thing for you in general.” Wanda said in a husky voice, a small smirk on her lips.

Leaning in closer you matched her smirk, “What a coincidence because I just so happen to have a thing for you as well.”

Wanda let out a quiet giggle and you smiled adoringly at the way her nose scrunched. As Wanda was leaning in again, you turned to face the rest of the family in the living room. Wanda sighed.

A short laugh escaped your lips as you watched Billy and Anna cover Pietro and Charlie’s eyes in a desperate bid to win the video game that they were playing. The laughter faded when you watched Pietro pull out sodas, teaching the twins how to chug the can and then burp much to your annoyance. Anna threw her own can at Pietro’s head.

“It’s wonderful that our siblings are so…” You paused as you watched the four begin wrestling for the remote. “Great with kids.”

Wanda nodded unconvincingly as she watched the scene by your side. “Yeah... They’re just full of surprises.”

Lightly you pat her shoulder as you stepped around her. “Well, good luck with them tonight. I’m sure it’ll be entertaining to say the least.”

Wanda turned to face you, a frown tugging down at the corners of her lips. “What?” She followed after you as you made your way to the door. “What do you mean? You’re all dressed and ready to go.”

You gestured vaguely to yourself. “I’m undercover. Ellie said there’s been mischief running amuck in the community and she suspects neighborhood watch. An inside job, Wanda! I'm an investigative journalist now.” Dramatically you tossed your cape over your shoulder for emphasis.

The frown on Wanda’s face remained as she shook her head lightly, “But that’s not what you’re supposed to…”

Skeptically you eyed Wanda. “What do you mean supposed to?”

“You didn’t tell me you had plans.” She eventually grumbled in annoyance, ignoring the question entirely.

“Well, I’m telling you now.” You replied with a small shrug.

Her eyes gleamed with frustration as if she couldn’t believe the words you were saying. “It’s the twins first Halloween. You have to be there.”

Anna and Pietro stepped over before you could get a word out. “Woah, what’s the big deal?” Pietro asked as he teasingly placing his hands in between you both like you were about to start fighting. “I’m much more fun than Y/n. No offense, you’re still smokin’.” He winked your way and you gagged.

Anna pushed him away and turned to Wanda with a reassuring smile. “It’s okay, Wanda. We can help with the twins. It’ll still be fun.”

“Uncle Petey to the rescue, huh?” Pietro added with a goofy grin.

You clapped his shoulder and turned to Wanda. “Sure… Petey. Problem solved. Have a spooky time tonight, kiddos. I love you!” You called out to Billy and Charlie who were engrossed in their game.

“Love you.” They called back distractedly, never taking their eyes off the screen.

Hesitantly you stepped back over to Wanda, ignoring the gloomy expression on her face as you lightly caressed her cheek.

With a small smile you leaned in and kissed her other check. “Be good.” You whispered before pulling away. Once again, you posed dramatically, smirking when Wanda begrudgingly replicated the action. “Time to solve this case!” With a final toss of your cape you left.

Wanda’s shoulders drooped slightly as the door closed behind you. Seconds later, you poked your head back in. “I forgot to say… you look beautiful, my love.” You called out sincerely, sending a wink Wanda’s way before shutting the door behind yourself again.

The blush on Wanda’s cheeks made both Pietro and Anna smirk in amusement.

____________

“Unleash hell, demon spawn!” Pietro called after the twins with a smile as they walked off to one of the houses with Anna. He furrowed his eyebrows questioningly when he noticed Wanda staring at him.

Wanda attempted to force an easygoing smile on her lips. “Do you remember when we were at the orphanage and there was this song that we used to sing? The one that would play on the radio whenever the soldiers radio frequencies would interfere with the our frequencies? It went like,” Pietro just stared, his head tilted slightly. “Let me come along, ‘cause even if you’re wrong-”

“-I’ll stand by you, I’ll stand by you. Won’t let nobody hurt you. I’ll stand by you.”

You sat patiently outside the door, the music playing quietly on your phone to break up the silence that surrounded you. And possibly send a message to the woman who was currently ignoring you.

Natasha walked over and kneeled by your side. “Are you planning on staying out here all night?” In response you lifted your shoulders slightly in a small shrug. “You should at least eat something.”

“I’m not hungry.” You murmured, spinning the rings on your fingers absently.

With a sigh Natasha stood up and gently pat your head. “I’m going to bring you both food. And I expect you both to eat, even if you aren’t talking right now.”

Almost as soon as Natasha had walked away the door behind you opened, causing you to fall backwards. “You can turn the cheesy 90s music off now. I get it.” Wanda said quietly, her posture tense.

You scrambled to shut the music off and rushed to your feet. “Hi.” You said nervously.

From where you stood you could see Wanda fight a smile. “You’ve been sat outside my room for three hours and all you came up with was hi?”

Shyly you rubbed your arm. “I did have a whole speech planned out in my head but looking at you now I can’t seem to think of anything other than you.”

Wanda melted with your words and you could see the frustration in her eyes begin to fade away. “Did you really mean what you said? That you don’t care?”

Tentatively you reached out and took her hands. “Never. Not about you. I was talking about myself. I will care about you forever.” Care was a placeholder for what you truly wanted to say and you both knew it. "I'm sorry for making you think I didn't."

With a sigh, Wanda pulled you into her arms. “Well I care about you, so if you care about me you also have to care about yourself.”

You buried your face in her neck, breathing in her sweet scent. “Okay. I care...” You mumbled letting the silence wash over the moment. “Did we just have our first fight? I hated every minute of that.”

Wanda’s chuckled slightly. “Yeah. Me too…” Her eyes shone brightly with amusement as she gently tilted your head up to meet her lips, finding comfort in your touch.

You were her safety.

Impatiently Pietro snapped his fingers in Wanda’s face, squinting his eyes slightly at her expression. “You’re testing me.” He said flatly with a knowing point of his finger.

Wanda quickly feigned innocence, still shaking away the memory that had filled her mind. “No, I’m not.” She insisted.

Wanda was testing him though. She knew he wouldn’t know that song. He shouldn’t have.

In response he waved a hand dismissively as he gestured vaguely to his face. “Hey, it’s cool. I know I look different.”

Unable to help herself, Wanda nodded. Her brows furrowed. “Why do you look different?”

Pietro shrugged. “You tell me. I mean, if I found Shangri-La I wouldn’t want to be reminded of the past either.” Wanda looked back at him pensively.

Anna then rushed back with the twins. “Your turn, Uncle Petey!” She exclaimed patting Pietro on the shoulder.

“Alright, Uncle Petey’s about to maximize your candy acquisition. Not like your lame Aunt Annie over here.” He joked, ruffling Anna’s hair who just smacked his hand away. He offered a hand to Charlie who eagerly took it as Billy linked on.

Before Wanda could even blink they had sped away. “I’m beginning to think he’s a bad influence.”

Anna spun around to face her. “Beginning? I hate to break it to you, Wanda, but between the two of us I’m the only good role model here.”

Wanda just shook her head in amusement when someone in the distance caught her attention. “I’ll be right back, Anna.” Anna nodded and ran to try to catch up to the twins. Wanda made her way over to the person of interest. “Hello, Ellie.”

Ellie turned to face Wanda a mild look of surprise covering her features. “Hi, Wanda. Where’s your lovely wife?”

The polite smile that Wanda had grown so accustomed to made an appearance. “Oh, it’s okay you don’t have to be secretive. Y/n told me about the undercover piece about neighborhood watch that you have her working on.”

Curiously Ellie quirked her eyebrows. “I haven’t assigned Y/n to any undercover pieces.”

Wanda’s smile wavered slightly. “Oh. I thought… I thought she…” Her lips pulled down slightly in thought.

Ellie shifted nervously in the silence as her brows furrowed in concern. “Is there something I can do for you, Wanda?” She continued on before Wanda could utter a response. “Do you want something changed?”

A confused chuckle fell from Wanda’s lips. “No. It’s fine. I must have just misheard her this morning.”

“If you say so. Tell Y/n I said hello.” Ellie finally replied, sending a wink Wanda’s way as she walked off.

“Hey, that woman looked so much like Amelia. Y/n loved her.” Wanda jumped at Anna’s sudden appearance. Her eyes clouded over when she processed what the teenage girl had just said.

__________________

“This is so lame. I can’t believe you’re making them return all the candy.” Pietro grumbled with a roll of his eyes.

Wanda crossed her arms indignantly. “Well, I can’t believe what a bad influence you are.”

“That’s why I’m better.” Anna added in a sing song voice.

Pietro sneered. “Oh, shut it, pipsqueak. We’re here to do the exact same thing, okay? Come to town unexpectedly, create tension with the sis-in-law, stir up trouble with the rugrats and ultimately… Give Wanda grief.”

Anna huffed when Wanda looked at her suspiciously. “I mean, that’s what you wanted, isn’t it?” She asked, her tone dripping with irritation that was a stark contrast to her positive attitude earlier.

The confusion at the situation caused Wanda to purse her lips as she allowed herself to consider the two people before her. “Anna, weren’t you six when Hydra… I mean, you weren’t a teenager when you…” She trailed off slightly, not wanting to finish the thought.

The younger girl rolled her eyes defensively. “Look, that was years ago. I aged. That’s what happens inn life, isn’t it?” Anna crossed her arms when Wanda didn't seem convinced. “I don’t know, okay?”

Wanda frowned slightly then turned her attention to Pietro. “And you. What happened to your accent?”

“What happened to yours?” Pietro countered defensively. He sighed when Wanda leveled him with an unimpressed stare. “Look. Details are fuzzy, man. For both of us. All I remember is getting shot like a chump in the streets for no reason at all. Next thing I know, I heard you calling us.”

Anna stepped forward, nodding along with Pietro. “We knew you needed us.”

The words hung in the air like an unanswered question. “Uncle P, Auntie A, guess what?” Charlie shouted excitedly effectively ending the conversation as she rushed over with Billy.

“There’s a treasure bag with full sized candy bars on the lamp post!” Billy pointed up eagerly at the post that was hanging directly above their heads. “Mom, can you help us get it?”

The sound of metal crunching filled the air as Charlie waved a hand. The lamppost giving way easily as she skipped over and took the bag off the light. “Next stop, Cavity Town!” She cheered as she walked back over and passed one of the treats to Billy.

“My niece is a badass!” Pietro hollered as he lifted Charlie on his shoulders. Wanda couldn't help the pride that bubbled in her chest as she watched her daughter's powers develop. She wished you would have been there to see it too. “Just like your uncle P! Chip off the old Maximoff block!”

Anna coughed pointedly. “Manipulating earth and metal? Sounds a lot like the badass comes from my genes.”

“It’s okay, baby. You can take it slow, and you can-” Wanda’s words were interrupted as Charlie began flying through the sky, cheering all the while. Wanda shook her head in amusement at the way Charlie smoothly flew through the air, her smile unwavering.

Billy watched his twin excitedly which Wanda took note of.

When Charlie floated too low, Wanda grabbed her foot and gently pulled her down. “If you’re going to explore, please just take your brother with you.” Wanda said seriously.

“Really?” Billy asked happily.

“Really?” Charlie repeated with a pout.

Wanda bit back a smile as she nodded. “Really. And please, just remember-”

“Don’t go past Ellis Avenue.” They responded in unison.

“We know, Mom. We know.” Charlie said dismissively as she offered her hand to Billy and a moment later they floated into the air.

Pietro and Anna shook their heads. “Be careful! I love you!” Wanda shouted after the twins.

_________________

For the past several hours a feeling of discomfort had settled in your chest as you wandered the city of Westview. The feeling reached its breaking point when you watched a woman frozen in time, replicating the same action again and again. The moment solidified your resolve. You needed to see what was outside this city. To see if all these odd occurrences were just that… odd occurrences.

You didn’t want to believe it was Wanda. It couldn’t be.

In a bid of desperation, you took advantage of one of your new-found skills and allowed yourself to fly into the skies of Westview. Everything looked completely normal... Except for one set of lights stopped strangely at the edge of the town.

Curiosity got the better of you as you flew over to investigate the scene. The sight of the stalled car unnerved you as you wearily made your way over to the driver’s side. “Agnes? What are you doing here?”

Despite the question, Agnes continued to stare off into the distance, almost as if you weren’t there at all. “Took a wrong turn.” She lifted her shoulders in a slight shrug. You worriedly took note of the way her eyes were glossed over with unshed tears despite her face being completely void of emotion. “Got lost.”

Her words were monotonous which was so out of character for the woman you’d seen before. You frowned. “Lost? In the town you grew up in?” There was no response from the other woman as she continued to stare blankly ahead. Your fingers tingled with uneasy energy. “I wonder…” Hesitantly you lifted your hand until it hovered over her temple. You closed your eyes as you focused, becoming one with the earth’s current until a short burst of light drifted from the tips of your fingers into the side of Agnes’ temple.

With a gasp, she sprung back to life. Agnes desperately took your hands, pulling you down. “You! You’re one of the Avengers! Are you here to help us?”

“I do want to help.” You assured her. “But what’s an Avenger?”

Agnes pulled her hands away as if she’d been burned. “What? Why don’t you know?” Suddenly she began patting herself down anxiously. “Am I dead?”

Your brows furrowed in concern. “No, no, why would you think that?”

There was a brief pause before Agnes turned her attention back to you. “Because you are.”

The tightness in your chest increased tenfold. “I am what?”

“Dead. You’re dead. Dead, Dead!” Agnes shouted hysterically causing you to flinch back involuntarily.

Determinedly you pushed forward again, ignoring her words. “Agnes, I want to help. I’m going to get help. To reach someone outside of Westview and figure everything out.”

“How? No one leaves. Wanda won’t even let us think about it.” Manic laughter startled you into silence as she continued. “All is lost. We’ll never escape her.”

Despite numerous attempts to call out to her, Agnes’ laughter never stopped. The unsteady tingling in your fingers began again as you took a deep breath and grounded yourself with the earth once more. You lifted your hand to her temple and almost as soon as the light entered her temple the laughter stopped.

“I will fix this.” You declared softly.

A caricature of a smile overcame her features. “Alrighty, neighbor!” She said as she turned the car around. “Happy Halloweenie!”

With a new sense of determination, you marched forward into the open field in the distance. The soft buzzing of static becoming louder and louder the further into the field you ventured.

Cautiously you reached a hand out to touch where the sound seemed to be coming from only to be met with resistance even though nothing was there. Confusion took hold of your emotions as you watched the costume you were wearing transform into your typical clothes as you pushed your arm through the energy barrier.

Knowing this was the only way, you pushed forward, feeling as if your mind was being wiped clean the further you walked.

The pain was becoming unbearable, but you knew you couldn’t turn back.

As the pain worsened, a quiet song began playing in your mind, almost as it was attempting to comfort you.

“Hey, hey, it’s okay. Look at me.” A soft hand on your face tilted your chin up. Her eyes were flooded with worry but her gentle touch brought you comfort. “This might hurt a bit, but we have to do this.”

A soft groan fell from your lips as you could feel the first stitch begin to close your wound. “Wait, wait.” You hissed, pushing her hand away from your bleeding side.

Her fingers gently brushed through your hair. “Y/n. You’re bleeding, we need to stitch this up now.” You knew she was right, but you still wanted to roll away. The woman quickly scrambled to her feet, stepping away for a moment before rushing back with a small device in her hands. “Here. Focus on the music. Focus on me. Not on the pain.”

“I've loved you forever, in lifetimes before and I promise never will you hurt anymore. I give you my word, I give you my heart. This is a battle we’ve won and with this vow, forever has now begun…”

When the song from the radio reached your ears, a choked laugh fell from your lips despite the pain you were in. “Did you plan for the cheesiest 90s song to play?”

In response she smiled ever so slightly, but her eyes remained focused on the task. “I didn’t, I swear. Guess I just got lucky.”

“Yeah. Me too…”

Staring up at her made it impossible for you to focus on anything else as you processed the words that floated from the radio. She was done before the song had even finished. You didn’t feel a thing.

“I didn’t see they were government agents.” You murmured guiltily after a moment as you watched her wrap your now stitched up side.

Her concerned eyes met yours. “Y/n, I don’t blame you. I’m just glad you’re okay. I was so scared I wouldn’t get there in time. That I wouldn’t be able to protect you. I... care about you.” Her words were sincere as her thumb lightly caressed your cheek. The placeholder word from your past making a comeback.

The small box of a room that was your newest hideout was dingy, but with her here it was the most beautiful place in the world.

Your chest tightened with familiar feelings that you spent so long avoiding. “Can you hold me?” You looked away as you asked, still not used to the vulnerability.

“Of course.” She breathed out, carefully helping you to bed before gathering you in her arms. Her heartbeat against your ear was the sweetest song you had ever heard. You had never felt safer than when you were in her arms.

Wanda was your safety.

“Wanda.” You gasped out, feeling yourself refocus on the current world around you as thoughts of Wanda flashed through your mind. Of Wanda smiling. Of Wanda laughing. Of Wanda crying. It was all there again.

Until it wasn’t.

With a gasp you fell to the floor, clutching your head, feeling yourself – your mind - begin to fade away.

“Why aren’t you helping her? Something is wrong with her, she needs help!” You heard a voice scream anxiously. You looked up just in time to see the woman get held back by someone. “Steve! Natasha! Help her!” She cried out holding her ear as a man tugged her arm down and handcuffed her to a car.

Despite the pain coursing through your veins you continued to weakly crawl forward. The threat of losing consciousness and the sense of who you were increasing the further out you moved from the barrier. “Th-they need h-elp.” You gritted out, not remembering why, but knowing it was why you were there. One of your arms gave out from under you as you fought to keep your eyes open.

The bespectacled woman watched you with growing concern, tugging desperately at the handcuffs that kept her in place. “Steve, Natasha, you need to hurry.” She said quietly, her eyes widening when you fell to the floor.

Everything went dark.

__________________

There was a comfortable silence in the air and Wanda could almost allow herself to relax as she sat on one of the bales of hay while the twins played on their own in the town square.

Almost.

“Where were you hiding all these kids up until now?” Pietro suddenly questioned with a smirk.

“What?” Wanda replied in surprise.

Anna leaned back on her hands, feigning amusement. “I assume she let them all sleep peacefully in their beds.” She picked at the hay in disinterest. “No need to traumatize beyond the occasional holiday cameo, right?”

Pietro rolled his eyes. “Hey, back off. She’s the empathetic twin.”

“I don’t-… I didn’t-” Wanda stuttered. Anna smirked slightly.

Waving his hands dismissively, Pietro continued. “She handled all the ethical considerations of this scenario as best she could.” Wanda’s mind seemed to be put at ease as Pietro’s speech continued. “Families and couples stayed together, most personalities are the same, people got better jobs. Better style, for sure.”

Flicking a piece of hay at Pietro’s head, Anna added. “Convincing my sister that she’s in love with her.”

Wanda turned her head sharply at Anna’s words. “What do you mean convincing? Y/n loves me.” Her brows furrowed as she considered Anna’s words. “She does.”

A laugh fell from Anna’s lips. “You can cut the act, Wanda. Pietro and I know everything.”

“I’m not acting. Y/n and I love each other.” Wanda defended quietly, trying desperately not to let Anna’s words get to her.

Anna shrugged. “If that’s what you need to tell yourself. Y/n was in love with Amelia- sorry, you renamed her Ellie.” She smirked when she saw Wanda’s fingers flex slightly. “They were soulmates. They made the best team. I’ve never seen Y/n more in love than she was with her.”

Wanda’s jaw clenched, and Anna’s smirk grew.

“Do it. Make her go away.” Pietro encouraged Wanda when familiar red tendrils began drifting from her fingers.

Anna tilted her head in mock sympathy. “What? You don’t want to hear the truth?”

With a wave of her hand, Anna slumped on the hay. Pietro cheered. “She’s just sleeping. She’ll be up in a few minutes.” Wanda said quietly, feeling the shame creep up on her as she tried to shake Anna’s words. Pietro laughed, and she turned to face him. “You don’t think it’s wrong?” Wanda asked quietly, her voice uncertain.

“What, are you kidding? I’m impressed! Seriously.” He admitted with a knowing smile. “It’s a pretty big leap from giving people nightmares and shooting red wiggly-woos out of your hands.”

For a moment Wanda stared off in the distance, allowing his words to wash over her.

“How’d you even do all this?” He finally asked. Wanda shifted uncomfortably at the question. “Hey, I’m not some stranger, or your wife, or your wife’s annoying little sister. I'm your brother. You can talk to me.”

Wanda’s eyes began to glisten to unshed tears as she thought over his question. “I don’t know how I did it.” She admitted quietly. “I… I only remember feeling completely alone. Like I was drowning. Just… Endless nothingness. Empty.” A tear fell down Wanda’s cheek.

“Mom! Mom!” Wanda heard Billy call out to her frantically as he ran over with Charlie following closely behind him. Wanda quickly composed herself.

Rushing over to the twins, Wanda felt dread build in her chest. “What is it, Billy?”

“I hear Momma. In my head! She’s in trouble.” The fear on his face made Wanda’s concern increase tenfold as her stomach dropped. “I don’t know understand. What’s happening to me?”

Wanda placed comforting hands on his shoulders as she struggled to control her emotions. “Where is she? Where is your mother?”

“Hey, don’t sweat it, sis. It’s not like your dead wife can die twice.” Pietro flippantly replied with a chuckle.

Anger. That's all she felt when Pietro spoke so dismissively about you. Unable to control her anger, Wanda shot out a hand as Pietro was sent flying back from the force of her powers.

Taking a breath, Wanda turned back to her terrified son. “Billy, I need you to focus.”

Closing his eyes, Billy began recounting what he saw. “I can’t tell. I see these… soldiers.” Wanda tensed even more. Billy gasped. “They think she’s dying!”

For a moment Wanda was sure her heart stopped.

Thinking quickly, she turned away from Billy, her eyes glowing red.

.

.

.

Steve and Natasha ran up just as the walls of the barriers began moving forward. They continued to sprint forward while Haywards minions made desperate attempts to run away.

“Y/n!” Steve cried out, feeling fear seep into his bones when he saw your lifeless form sprawled out on the empty field. On numb legs he began moving faster. Hopelessly, he was forced to watch the red energy wash over you once again.

Natasha cursed as they lost sight of your body. The red barrier continued to push forward when they were mere feet away from Darcy. “Fu-” They heard her mumble through a wince as she also became lost behind the barrier.

“We have to get in there!” Steve shouted.

With determination, Natasha nodded. “Let’s try.” A moment later they were pushing against the red energy that was fighting against letting them in.

Annnnnd we have concluded with the 90s! Chaos is the main population of Westview right now. A lot happened here. I'm not even sure what to say to be completely honest. A little nervous about this part.

Anyway...

As always, thoughts and comments are always welcome! Let me know what you think. :)

Taglist:

@theofficialzivadavid // @tquick99 // @abimess // @marrymemcgrath // @the-camilucha // @afuckingshituniverse //@pxterstrk // @aimezvousbrahms // @ensorcellme // @sapphicshots

[cloveroctobers]

ANNA-JULIA “AJ” (JONES) JARLETT

IG bio/info: @/annajj9x_ | 20.1k followers| Athlete | hey peeps can you stop asking me to throw it back cuz the answer will always be no! K thx take it easy 🏳️‍🌈🌻🏒🐶

21 years old

From bath, England

Hockey player as her profession for the past three years

Her position is defense

Their team name is “rowdy alphas”...yeah some team names just didn’t make sense or they’re cringe for no reason at all

Was raised by her mom,(her mom was a teen mom & had her at 17) maternal grandmother, and her paternal aunt (dad’s younger sister, who’s more like a big sister to her at 28)

They’ve made her into the person she is, literally

Her grandmother has a bed and breakfast that they all live in

the house is Victorian style—almost as if they walked right out of charmed! Instead of a big pink house, think yellow AND purple. It was hideous but homey and charming on the inside

growing up in a house with multiple temporary strangers wasn’t odd to aj at all, in fact it felt like the norm. There was always someone around to socialize with so that was quite nice

Her father was a pro baseball player & passed away due to a automobile accident

she has his smile & freckles

aj was also involved in the accident at the age of 6 & miraculously survived with intense injuries

Has scars as a reminder

used to have night terrors because of the accident...it took awhile—years!!! for them to subside

they’re all vague memories now (but the pain is something she’ll always remember) but she preferred it that way

she’s named “Anna” after her mother’s old best friend/roommate and was supposed to be aj’s god mother but she went missing during their uni years

the name“Julia” came from her paternal grandmother who she gets her wide doe eyes from

her athleticism definitely came from her dad

Her mother luckily liked to document things so there’s a bunch of home videos of her dad in them & pictures/scrapbooks that her mom has for safe keeping

She’s more of a klutz, tiny, and wears huge prescription glasses

extremely close to the three most important ladies in her life, so she’s always been able to be open with them about anything!

when she first expressed her interest in liking both genders around 17-18 her paternal aunt was all smirks, “i knew Britney Spears was so your type, yeah?”

more like shakira but Brit was just as pretty

her mother was a “cry baby” so ofc she burst out into tears squeezing aj’s limbs and peppering her face with kisses. She didn’t view her child as anything different... as she shouldn’t & was glad that her daughter trusted them with this significant moment in her life and wanted to be as supportive as she could

got books, watched Ted talks and everything but knew she could come to the source even tho aj was still figuring it out herself

her grandma dipped her head at the new info sitting at the round kitchen table, “been there. had a few broads in my life after and during my marriage with your no good grandad. Thank goodness the bastard died before you even got to meet ‘em.” “Mum!”

what felt like the biggest weight on her chest was lifted. She knew they’d understand but a part of her had a little bit of doubt, she’s heard so many horror stories where those like her didn’t have the support she has and that made her extremely sad to think about

i see her as a person that has/had many friends in secondary. She’s always open to chat and her being on a few sports teams helped her out in her case

very competitive in anything that she does & will guarantee that she’ll beat you. (“ You wanna race to the car from here?”wins. “Who ever cleans the most dishes the fastest gets the last slice of pie.”) majority of the time she’s right but if she loses?? oh don’t let her lose to you, it’s a pity party for the rest of the time ur in her space. Such a sore loser omg

stays active, always working out + has a gym membership and makes sure she goes at least five times a week

she’s very strong, loves leg day & working on her core

she’s about 5’10

loves wearing “gf jeans” since they’re super comfy but doesn’t mind skinny Jeans with rips in the knees every now and then

trainers and chucks are her go-to sneakers

has no issue shopping in the men’s section ‘cause who’s gonna stop her? Nobody that’s who

owner of over a 100 graphic tees + vertical stripped shirts are also her favs, SWEATPANTS/joggers?! How many does she have? A lot. Snapbacks? Plenty. Will she wear them backwards? Obviously.

Physical touch is her love language. She’s comes from a family that has no issue showing their affection by touch. There is NO such thing as personal space and that still stands with aj when it comes to relationships, she sees no other way

It’s what she shows and what she wants in return, if you’re not touching her in some sort of way, then automatically she thinks there’s something wrong or that she did something

Is the jealous type. It has shown in relationships and ruined a relationship or two

Has cheated on a significant other out of pure jealousy & is not proud to admit that

Does have a wandering eye but feels now that she truly understands herself when it comes to relationships, she’ll never act on it again

I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, I get libra tendencies from her so that’s what I’m sticking with. She likes to keep the peace (unless she’s jealous) , idealistic — always looking on the bright side of things, outgoing, romantic, and professional— especially when it comes to her team; her true leadership comes out, yet she can be indecisive, hates confrontation, self pitying — if things don’t go perfectly how she imagined/planned it to, the world is ending and everyone is out to get her, and can be unreliable—never on time

September libra to be exact

if she’s really in love/taken a interest in you then she gets nervous: blushing, sweaty palms, cracking her knuckles, tongue tied—the whole 9

she’s already defined as a puppy by her coach but when she’s in love? She’s a lovesick puppy!

her fav holiday is Valentine’s Day

thought she was going to be a pro skateboarder growing up but it took one bad fall where she thought she was paralyzed for her to choose something else

she likes her weed on occasion

Obsessed with all types of cheese except cottage, “can I put cheese on this?”

more of a jumpsuit kinda girl or dressy top with jeans & hoops on a night out

has a solid group of mates outside of the hockey team, they’ve all met and hung out a couple of times, as they should since aj feels they’re going to be stuck with her for awhile so why not?

They’re a riot when they all go out, let’s just say that there’s never a dull moment

fav color is periwinkle

enjoys ASMR, mostly in the mornings when she’s waking up. You know how people love podcasts? (Sorry seb & Nicky, she still wants to be on the show soon!) ASMR is her thing

loves tangerines, you can count on it that she’ll have one on her, “where did you pull that from?” “I’ll never share my master plan.” “You’re such a tit.”

Definitely prefers “fresh squeezed” orange juice & will make her own, she has the tools & the strength 😏

Very rare for her to get sick ;) & if she does she’s a complete baby about it

Will fight that she’s sick before she admits it, trying all sorts of horrid remedies & vitamins

loves summer & all things that come with it, the number one thing is leaving bath for however long she can for a new place to enjoy

when she arrived to love island, she was thrilled for the weather. Yes she was looking for love but most importantly a nice get away & that it was (depending on your route that is lol)

closest with seb, vieve, elladine, and tai but don’t tell the others that! (She doesn’t care if you tell Yasmin, honestly)

just because her & seb “dated” and it didn’t work out doesn’t mean they can’t be friends right? It was almost automatic for them to be platonic after it was determined there would be no romance between them, almost like sibs! like those celebs like to say—except this time these two won’t turn around and actually find romance

vieve came with seb so...but no shade aj did like vieve. She gave great advice (while seb sometimes didn’t say the right things unintentionally or what aj needed to hear) when needed, especially from a medical view and is very sweet

elladine was the one who had all the tea & ideas to match, she’s quite organized and always down for DIY’s and could suggest almost anything. If you needed someone to help you get things tidy or match/find your Aesthetic, she’s the friend you call to help

tai was the one she could be a “bro” with, sure elladine has her competive side (or controlling, depends on how you view it) but tai was the one you can run to for much needed “bro hugs”, partying, going to the pubs, playing sports with or against, checking out/flirting with babes, etc...

it was not long after the villa that aj had a revelation with her sexuality & fully owned and labeled herself as a lesbian

She was happy being in relationship with someone else or with herself, life was short and she was young so there wasn’t time to dwell and stress over things so what the hell?! Live your truth the best way you know how ya know?

probably smells like sweet citrus, almond flower, and sea salt

on chest days, she’s a sweets snacker. Loves gummy bears (also with vodka) , swedish fish, sour patch kids, etc...basically shit that sticks to ur teeth

put all her chips into hockey, while it was advised by her Counselors & mum not to do so, aj went about it anyway. She thought about the pros and cons but knew there was nothing else for her. So there were more pros than cons. She was meant to play sports, its what felt right in her soul

Made her feel connected to her father, when she’s on the field she feels that he is with her

 scrunches up her nose when she’s frustrated or confused about something

Doesn’t always grasp concepts right away, she’s a soft dummy but most of us are and that’s okay! We’re all smart in our own ways

Feels like sunflowers are always around her especially if she sees them wherever she is. They must symbolize SOMETHING, therefore she loves them

spf queen. All about it, get with it or let the sunrays ruin ur skin that’s on u

loves a good filet mignon medium-well & is probably the only good thing she knows how to make alongside a salad, baked potatoes, & her oj

sucker for romantic-comedies...it’s basically her life duh!

If she has a dog, it’s a Dalmatian or Great Dane. She needs a companion that’ll keep up with her

loves kissing, it’s her favorite form of intimacy

Quarantine life included the push up challenge for her. Gaining a few pounds in muscle and fat, bothering seb via ft, viewing old letters she wrote to her dad, spending time with her fav ladies since they were now restricted from having guests in their home, and letting boredom consume her + she hated the whole lockdown that came with it, she hated being indoors for long periods of time but she knew that’s what partly needed to be done

Posts a lot of beach, park, outings with her friends & team, moments with her fav ladies, workout videos, and guests at the b&b with their permission and if only she befriends them along the way. She’s just as active on the socials as she is in rl but she’s not obsessed with it, she knows how to live in the now. She’s all about balance!

I also feel like she never keeps her phone charged and it’s always dying on her! She had a car charger but...that’s a jungle. She needs to invest in a portable charger stat

crushing on/finds attractive: Jared Padalecki, Keanu Reeves, Barrett Doss, Camilla Luddington, Sandra Bullock, Adrian Kempe, Harry Kirton, Anya Taylor-Joy, Haley Lu Richardson, Naomi Osaka, Ming & Aoki Lee Simmons

who does she listen to? Shakira lol!! Bea Miller, Dua Lipa, Daya, XYLØ, Elley Duhé, Stela Cole, Aloe Blacc, Maroon 5, Lewis capaldi, Charlie Puth, girl in red, Hayley kiyoko, king princess, dodie, & tessa violet

Anthem: Icona Pop — we got the world

[jingles--18]

Matt Casey x Kelly Severide (as dads) II

(not my gif)

Anna Casey and Quinn Severide, best friends since day one, trouble since their first prank.

Here you were feeling very tipsy after promising your dad that you wouldn’t drink at the party. You weren’t sure who encouraged who, but here you both were sitting on the couch laughing at lord knows what as both of your phones buzzed silently in your bags. Your dad dropped you and Quinn off at the party giving you both a final warning about drinking. You guys had made a plan to stay at your friend Lucie Halsteads house, who’s parents were out of town, meaning your parents would never know about your little drunken adventure.

“I hope they never ever find out,” you laughed as you took the final swig of your beer.

“Anna, they never let us have any fun, just relax okay?” And that was all you needed to hear.

-

The bright lights were blinding, which did not help the excruciating pain in your head. Your eyes begun to focus, making it very clear that you were no longer at the party or Lucie’s house, you were in fact in the hospital. Fuck.

“Oh honey, you look awful,” You would recognise Maggie’s voice any day, she was one of your many babysitters growing up.

“How much trouble am I in?” You asked sheepishly.

She sat on the bed, placing a hand on your leg, “Baby, I don’t know how you’re going to get yourself out of this one.”

You could feel the panick settling in, “What happened?” You asked almost whispering.

“You and Quinn ended up in here needing your stomachs pumped because you both got way too drunk,” she said, acting as if it was no big deal.

“Do my parents know?”

“Yes, Kelly and Stella are already here. Quinn has spilled all the beans unfortunately. We were all worried, Will did not enjoy having to resuscitate his nieces friends.”

You sat there in silence, not really knowing what to say when the door opened revealing a very hungover Quinn.

“Can I come sit?” She asked almost trying to avoid eye contact with Maggie.

“Of course,” you replied, welcoming your best friend.

“Right girls, I’ll leave you be,” Maggie have you both a warm smile as Quinn lay on your bed beside you.

“Bye Maggie,” you both said in unison.

“What happened?” You asked, turning to face Quinn.

She let out a big sigh, “We ended up playing beer pong but apparently Josh put tequila in all the cups so we got pretty wasted. Jamie Halstead was there to pick up Lucie and ended up driving us to the hospital, I don’t remember any of it. But he messaged me this morning. Mom and dad are pissed.”

“I’m just waiting on mine arriving,” you said with a defeated sigh, knowing that your mom would probably murder you.

You both lay in a comfortable silence mulling over the nights events when the door burst open and in walked your parents. Who looked pissed.

“Glad to see you’re alive,” your dad said between gritted teeth.

“Anna, what on earth were you thinking? You promised us you wouldn’t drink. That’s the only reason you got to go!” You could tell your mom was holding back her tears.

“Auntie Sylvie, we played beer pong which I know we shouldn’t have, but a boy called Josh had put tequila in all the cups without us knowing,” Quinn pleaded trying to get you out of trouble.

Your dad let out a defeated sigh, “Anything could have happened to you both, you know that right? If it hadn’t of been for Halstead you guys probably would have choked on your own vomit and we’d be sat in the hospital identifying your bodies!” He was shouting now, you could tell he was pissed because the vein on his forehead was pulsating.

“Dad, don’t be so dramatic-“

“Dramatic? I’m not being dramatic Anna, do you know how many times we’ve seen kids drinking go wrong? Too many times and I refuse to let you be one of them. Either of you.” He stormed out the room with a bang of the door which caused the tears that threatened to fall, to begin falling down your cheeks.

“I’m sorry,” you whispered, lowering your head to avoid your moms stare. She quietly walked out leaving you both to sit in silence.

“We really fucked up didn’t we?” Quinn questioned as she repositioned herself on the bed.

“Yup,” you said popping the ‘p’. How were you going to fix this? You honestly had no clue.

“Can I come in?” A voice came from the door, it was Stella.

“Hey aunt Stella, listen i just want to-“

“I don’t wanna hear okay, you guys messed up, scared us to death. But you’re young and Lord only knows how many times I did it when I was younger. I just never got caught. We’re angry, but it’s only out of love. Now give me a hug you pair of riots,” she engulfed you both in her arms kissing you both on your heads.

Soon enough all four of your parents were stood in the room preparing to each give you both a lecture.

“Look, lets get you both home and into your beds. You both really scared us, I hope you know that. We’ve seen some bad things with our jobs and that’s why we may seem overprotective but we just want our girls to be safe okay?” Your uncle Kelly seemed a lot calmer now as you all walked out of the hospital with a wave to both Will and Maggie who both smiled, feeling thankful that you both were okay. Your dad however, was still pissed. He couldn’t even look at you which broke your heart.

It had been a few hours since you had left Chicago med and your dad still hadn’t spoken to you.

“Matt, go speak to her. I can hear her sniffling in her room. She’s clearly upset.” Your mom, Sylvie tried to reason with your dad.

“She completely disregarded anything we said to her and got herself into trouble. This is the consequence of her actions Sylvie.” He backfired earning an exasperated sigh from his wife.

“And you never got drunk when you were a teenager?” She asked, giving him a smirk.

He just laughed, “it’s not the same,”

“Why? Because she’s your daughter? Unfortunately she needs to make mistakes to learn from them babe, we’re here to guide her the best we can but ultimately she’s her own person and she’s growing up. You can’t punish her everytime you don’t want to accept that she is turning into an adult Matt.”

He knew fine well that she was right, he just didn’t want to admit it. When he laid eyes on his baby girl he promised himself that he’d never let anyone or anything harm her. He knew the teenage years would be difficult, for both his children, but somehow it was easier to let Ryan be a bit more adventurous than his baby girl. But that wasn’t your fault.

“I’ll go speak to her,” he sighed as he got up out of the seat and headed up to your room. He walked quietly up to your door and his heart broke at what he heard. You crying into your pillow. So he knocked pulling you away from your sobs. You looked so vulnerable lying in your bed clearly hungover and tears falling from your eyes.

He walked in without a word and sat beside you on your bed, placing his arm around your shoulder to pull you into his chest. Where you felt the safest. He remembered all the times he had tucked you into bed with a story and how you had fallen asleep in exactly this position.

You cuddled right into him and let out a sob, “Dad, I’m so sorry,” you cried out, feeling all the emotions from the last day relieve from your soul.

He kissed your head with a sigh, “I know you are baby, I know you are,” You both ended up falling asleep in that position and stayed like that until morning when the smell of pancakes woke you both up.

[sdottkrames]

Five Little Turkeys

@comfortember prompt 17: Flashbacks

Summary: Five Iron Fam Thanksgivings Past + 1 Present

Notes: Happy Thanksgiving!  Even if you don't live in the US and don't celebrate, I hope you take a little time to think of something you're grateful for and appreciate it. I am so very very thankful to all of you! and a special Thank You goes to @baloobird for always believing in and inspiring my writing, to @an-odd-idea for tagging me in fun things and for beta reading some stuff for me, and to @littlemissagrafina for leaving the absolute best comments and to every other friend I’ve made in this wonderful fandom. I love you all.

Read on AO3: Here

Five little turkeys standing at the door,

One waddled off, and then there were four.

____________________________________

May Parker had never hosted thanksgiving before.

Maybe that was a good thing, because she’d already managed to ruin the mashed potatoes, which resembled concrete more than anything, and burn the green bean casserole past recognition.

At least Ben was having more luck with the turkeys and gravy, and that was the most important part, right?

Right?

Oh goodness, this is going to be a disaster. I never should’ve agreed to host Ben’s family.

At least baby Peter’s gonna be here.

Staving off tears and chanting more positive things to herself in her head, May turned her attention to something she knew she could do: opening a can of cranberry sauce and dumping it in a festive pumpkin shaped bowl. Then she grabbed the homemade rolls Ben had made that morning and put them carefully in a basket with a pretty white towel to cover them.

Ben came up behind her, surprising her as he wrapped his arms around her waist.

“Smells amazing,” he murmured in her ear.

May giggled despite the tears that threatened again. “Well, maybe it’s the ruined potatoes, or the burnt green beans.”

Ben spun her around, tenderly kissing her. “I wasn’t talking about the food, babe.” May blushed. “Besides, I’ve already called my mom, and she’s gonna buy more potatoes on her way to make a fresh batch, and we’ve got plenty more cans of green beans to make the casserole again. We’ll be just fine.”

Goodness, May loved this man. She told him so as she kissed him again, and again, and again.

May opened the door to her husband’s family and inhaled a steadying breath as she took in the five of them standing there. She focused on their genuine smiles and kind eyes.

I can do this.

Once hugs and warm greetings had been exchanged all around and a new batch of potatoes had been made, the others put their offerings on the beautifully laid table. What May Parker lacked in the cooking department, she made up for in the decorating department, and the table was stunning, and the food even tasted better than May had hoped. However, it quickly became apparent that it didn’t really matter what food had been made. Little 14-month-old Peter was the star of the dinner.

It was hard for him not to be with the chubbiest of cheeks and the sweetest of smiles. All eyes were on him as he tried turkey for the first time, then stuffing, and cranberry sauce. He was more interested in mashing the food with his fingers...until pumpkin pie. The little boy’s eyes widened as the sweet dessert hit his taste buds, and he eagerly made grabby hands for more. All the adults giggled along as he shoved another bite into his mouth, clumsily holding his spoon.

Ben was right, May thought. Everything is just fine.

She looked around again, her eyes lingering on her husband, who smiled back at her.

More than fine.

________________________________________

Four little turkeys sitting near a tree,

One waddled off, and then there were three.

_________________________________________

Tony stared at his phone, trying and failing to keep the disappointment off his face. It seemed to fill him, all the way from his toes to the top of his head, accumulating into a grey cloud that dumped great drops of homesickness all over him.

He’d been looking forward to Thanksgiving. He wasn’t all that excited to see his father, of course, but he and his mother did get along, and he missed her. It was his first year at college, and he hadn’t seen his mother in nearly three months. He couldn’t wait to sit and play piano with her, hear her singing, feel her hugs. His mom had also promised him that his Uncle Jarvis and Aunt Anna were going to be there, and he was beyond excited to see them too. All that excitement turned sour in just one text.

I’m sorry it said.

Sorry sorry sorry. Always sorry.

He should’ve known his father would ruin plans. Should’ve never gotten his hopes up. His parents were traveling (again) and taking Jarvis with him. There would be no thanksgiving.

Tony resigned himself to spending the holiday by himself, hoping to see his mom and the Jarvises at Christmas. He started unpacking and putting everything away.

Then his roommate walked in.

“What’re you doing?” James Rhodes- Rhodey, as Tony had dubbed him their first week together- said.

“My parents are traveling. I won’t be able to go home,” Tony answered flatly. “I’ll be staying here for thanksgiving.”

Rhodey didn’t hesitate. “Oh, no, you won’t. Pack your stuff, Stark. You’re coming to the Rhodes house.”

“You don’t have to do that, really. I’m alright staying here. I’m honestly used to it! I prefer to be alone, actually.”

Tony tried to keep his cavalier persona firmly in place, playing the situation off. But he should have known that Rhodey wouldn’t buy it. From day one, his roommate had been able to see right through Tony and his bullcrap and been able to call him out on it.

Rhodey arched an eyebrow, placing a hand on his hip. “Uh huh. That why you’re sitting here moping?”

“I’m not moping!”

“I can practically see the storm cloud above your head!”

Tony rolled his eyes. “Fine. Well, are you sure your mom-”

Rhodey placed a hand on Tony’s shoulder, cutting him off. His dark eyes were serious. “My momma would have my head if she knew I let you stay here by yourself. I’ll let her know to expect you, but trust me when I say that it won’t be a problem.”

Tony took a deep breath and placed the shirts and bag of toiletries he’d unpacked back into in his small duffle while Rhodey called his mom.

“She said you better come, and expect to bring home at least three Tupperware full of left-overs.”

And so Tony found himself sitting around the table with Roberta Rhodes, Lila Rhodes, and his roommate. He hadn’t expected to be treated like family so quickly, but it was clear that’s exactly how they viewed him as the chatted and passed him turkey and stuffing and cranberry sauce.

Later, the Christmas tree cast a warm, happy glow over the four individuals laying around the living room in various stages of consciousness, their full stomachs lulling them into a contented stupor. Tony was surprised the tree was up so early, but he was glad it was. It’s branches were laden with ornaments that clearly held stories (like the handmade snowflake one that featured a picture of a young James Rhodes wearing the ugliest sweater Tony had ever seen, grinning ear to ear without any front teeth), so different from the sterile red and white decorations that went on the tree at his home every year.

The warm light and company seemed to fill him with happiness and contentment all the way from his toes to his head, accumulating into bright sun rays around him like a halo that warmed every part of his soul.

It was the best thanksgiving he’d ever had.

________________________________________

Three little turkeys with nothing to do,

One waddled off, and then there were two.

_________________________________________

The first year is the hardest Tony had heard it said.

It gets easier people promised.

Well, so far, it had been the hardest year, but Tony didn’t think it was going to get any easier after the one year mark.

His parents were dead. Killed. Gone. Right before Christmas.

At each new “first” without them, Tony found himself turning more and more to the bottle, saw his roommate and best friend become more and more concerned, his grades more and more in danger.

Tony had refused Rhodey’s offer to come be with him for thanksgiving. He loved them, but he couldn’t stomach being around a family.

His family, because the Rhodes’ were almost more family than his own parents had been.

Maybe that’s why it was so hard.

So on yet another first- the first thanksgiving without them- Tony woke to a dull grey sky outside his window. Bare trees, brown leaves, and dead grass further matched his mood. It was another day to be drained from his memory, drowned out by the buzzing in his skull.

He was heading to grab a beer for breakfast (totally healthy, he knows) when a knock on the front door had him changing course from the kitchen to the entranceway of his apartment.

He had to grip the doorframe to keep from falling over when he saw who was on the other side.

“Jarvis?”

“Hello, Sir,” the man said with a kind smile, but he couldn't quite cover up the concern in his eyes.

“What are you doing here?”

“Well, Anna and I thought you might like some company today. Our neighbor gave us a turkey that is much too large for just the two of us, so we thought you might come help us eat it.”

Tony knew Jarvis well enough to know that it wasn’t really a question. Jarvis wasn’t leaving without him. And, really, Tony couldn’t refuse even if he had the energy or desire to.

“Okay.”

Later that night Tony hugged them both goodbye, a stomach full of good food softening the sadness that had gripped him earlier that day. After Jarvis dropped Tony back off at his apartment, Tony paused as he was heading up the stairs, and turned around.

“Jarvis?” The man looked up from putting the car in gear. “Thank you. And Anna, too.”

Jarvis’ face softened. “Anytime, sir.”

And as Tony went to bed, he grabbed a beer out of habit, but thought twice before putting it to his lips.

Maybe it was okay to feel sometimes.

He dumped the beer down the sink and threw away the bottle.

___________________________________________

Two little turkeys in the morning sun,

One waddled off, and then there was one.

___________________________________________

The bright sun woke Peter up. He wandered blearily into the living room, and was surprised to find his aunt already awake, holding a cup of steaming coffee.

“Hey, baby,” she murmured, holding out her arm for Peter to snuggle under.

He didn’t need to ask about the red rim around her eyes, or what she was doing up so early. The space on the side of the couch from her was too conspicuously empty, the two places already set at the table too obviously missing a third, the hole in their heart too Ben-shaped to be ignored.

“I’m sorry,” Peter whispered, again, the guilt eating him as it always had, but especially on holidays.

Once May had found out about Spider-Man, Peter had finally cracked one day and told her the real details of Ben’s death after a particularly bad nightmare about the night featuring rain that was red like blood and gunshots echoing all around him. He’d sobbed and sobbed, begging her to forgive him. She hadn’t even thought about it. She’d wrapped her arms around Peter, hugged him as tight as she could, and whispered over and over again that it wasn’t his fault.

But hearing it and letting himself believe it were two completely different things. Peter didn’t feel like he deserved May’s forgiveness. It was his fault that they were awake at 6 AM, watching the sun rise, and missing part of them.

“No,” May said, her voice firm but her hand very gentle as she pulled back to place it on Peter’s cheek. “No. None of that. Ben would not want us sitting here, moping away on his second favorite holiday.”

Peter chuckled at that, remembering how his uncle would always insist that if he weren't already a religious man, he might start his own church dedicated to food. Thanksgiving was almost as holy to him as Christmas.

“Remember that year he made cupcakes that looked like turkeys? With the little candy corn feathers? You couldn’t eat it cause the turkey was ‘looking at you’?”

They both chuckled, snuggling together again.

“Or that time you tricked us with that stupid microwave turkey thing and he called in a panic, screaming for you not to do it?” May laughed.

“Oh! what about that time he laughed so hard, eggnog came out of his nose?”

They continued to remember and honor the man they were missing. As the sun rose and lit their apartment, the memories of thanksgiving’s they’d shared lit their hearts.

“Everything’s going to be okay,” May whispered, remembering her husband’s words from years earlier and taking solace in them once more.

“Yeah,” Peter murmured. “It will. Thanks, May. I’m so grateful I have you.”

“You, too, kiddo. More than you know.”

__________________________________

One little turkey better run away,

For soon it will be Thanksgiving Day.

__________________________________

Peeling potatoes was a mindless task, and Tony found that to be a very not good thing.

It meant his mind had time to wander and think about...things. Like Peter, and May, and the thousand others who weren’t celebrating Thanksgiving for yet another year. Though it had been four years since Thanos, Tony still found his mind wandering every holiday, thinking about and dwelling on the people who were unable to celebrate.

Especially one very specific person. The most important one, really, at least to Tony. And Tony hadn’t even been able to tell him.

To make up for lack of words shared in life, Tony found time every holiday to talk to Peter. Found a little private space that was quiet and secluded and talked to his kid. His kid. It had taken that kid’s death for him to finally admit it, but that’s what Peter had been to Tony. Pepper knew what he did even though he hadn’t told her, and he had a feeling she purposely kept Morgan busy to give him that quiet time.

Tony placed the last peeled potato in the bowl and turned to his wife. Her face softened at the look on his face, and she nodded, gesturing to the back door.

Tony squeezed her hand before walking out the door and to the group of small birches by the lake that he’d chosen for this purpose. He called it Peter’s Place. He was working on a sign for it.

“Hey, Pete,” he whispered, sitting on the ground and leaning up against his favorite tree. “Happy thanksgiving, bud. Another one without you, and I gotta say, it doesn’t get easier. But it gets...different. I hope you know I’m thankful for you. Thankful that you opened my heart to having kids, that you let me get my fumbling attempts at parenting so when Morgan came I had a better grasp on how it worked. I’m thankful for you teaching me about memes, for the movie and lab nights, for your smile and hugs.” He paused to wipe his eyes. “Geez, you made me soft. Anyway, I just wanted to come out and say my piece as usual. I love you, kid. I hope you know that.”

He took a minute to compose himself before heading back to the house. He didn’t make it all the way in before the door opened and a little body was running towards him.

“Oh no! A monster,” he cried, running the other way, smiling as Morgan’s laughter peeled behind him. He ran slowly, letting his 3-year-old daughter catch up to him on her tiny legs. She grabbed his leg, and he theatrically fell to the ground, rolling and taking her with him.

She giggled, and he placed a kiss on her cheek, then another, then another, keeping her happy laughter ringing out.

Morgan was a bright spot in his life, the light that, along with Pepper, chased the darkness of his failures away and reminded him that despite all he’d lost, there was still so much to be thankful for.

And Peter would want him to be happy, to live, to be grateful and positive. That’s how he’d lived, after all.

So Tony kissed his daughter twice more, one for her, and one for his other kid.

“I love you,” he whispered to them both.

______________________________________

Soon it will be Thanksgiving day

______________________________________

Peter could hardly contain his excitement.

May laughed at him as she put the mashed potatoes (that Peter had made, with May “helpfully” giving tips and pointers...mostly to make him laugh) in a tin to bring with them to the Starks.

“Peter, calm down or I will intentionally make this take so much longer,” she threatened.

“But Maaaaay, I’m HUNGRY.”

“Yes, and I told you to eat something for breakfast. And did you?”

Peter mumbled something unintelligible.

“What was that?”

“No. I wanted to be hungry for turkey! And potatoes! And pie!”

“Peter, please,” she groaned, good naturedly. “Go get one of the super bars from the cabinet so your stomach doesn’t start digesting itself and so I don’t have to deal with you complaining the entire way to the lake house!”

“Fine,” Peter sighed, and dramatically went to grab a granola bar as requested.

“Grab two!”

Peter did, and waved them pointedly in front of her face. May laughed. “Okay, okay. Eat them, and let’s get out of here!”

They passed the time by belting Christmas carols on the ride down, laughing and dancing, and soon they were there. Peter carried the potatoes in and put them down on the counter so he could accept a hug from Morgan, who ran and jumped as high as she could, wrapping her arms around his waist.

“Petey!!! Happy Thanksgiving!” She shouted, placing a kiss on his cheek.

“Hey, Mo,” he said, smiling. “Happy thanksgiving.”

The little girl placed both her hands on either side of his face, very seriously looking into his eyes. “Peter, I am thankful for you.”

Peter couldn’t help but chuckle a little at her dramatics, even though his heart was swelling from her words. “Well, thank you. I’m grateful for you too!”

Her mission completed, Morgan squirmed to go give May a hug, so Peter turned to Pepper. She was wearing an apron with little turkeys all of it, and was rolling dough for rolls into balls to be placed in the oven once the turkey was done.

He placed a kiss to her cheek. “Happy Thanksgiving, Pepper!”

“Happy thanksgiving, sweetie!”

“Where’s Tony?”

Pepper’s face . “He’s out back. Why don’t you go find him. I’m sure he’ll be happy to know you’re here.”

Peter found Tony by the lake in a little grove of trees.

“Tony?”

“Hey kid,” Tony said, and something about his voice made Peter pause. He glanced around and saw a little sign that said Peter’s place. He looked quizzically at Tony. “I came here every holiday to talk to you while you were...gone. I guess old habits die hard. I couldn’t not come here today.”

Peter blinked back tears. “Wow,” he said, unable to find more eloquent words.

“Pete, you know I love you, right? And that I’m grateful for you?”

Peter’s voice wouldn’t form the words, couldn’t make sound come out through the lump of emotion in his voice. He settled for hugging Tony instead.

“Yeah,” he said finally. “You know I feel the same, right?”

Tony hugged Peter tighter. “Yeah, kiddo, I do.”

They stayed there for a little while, just holding one another, basking in each other’s love and the intense gratitude of being able to be together again that seemed to overwhelm them.

Eventually, Tony let out a watery chuckle. “Geez, today’s supposed to be a happy day. I blame you for making me all emotional!”

Peter nudged Tony with his elbow. “Rude, old man!”

And the two, still linked together by arms thrown over shoulders and around waists, headed back to the house.

As Peter looked around the table as they all sat down, the Starks, May, even Happy and Rhodey, he allowed himself to be a little bit sappy. This was what Thanksgiving was truly about, anyway: family. And he really couldn’t express how grateful he was for each and every one of them, including the ones he’d lost. He closed his eyes and mentally committed the moment to memory.

“Happy thanksgiving, everyone!” He said, raising his glass.

“Happy thanksgiving!” They called back.

And it was. It really was.

[mycatshuman]

I Against Me

Past Platonic Anxciet

Warnings: angst, just a whole lot of angst.

Didn't proof read so here you go.

"Tell me why you're holding me back

Tryna push me off the right track

And I'm wishing so bad you would leave me alone

Why you're blurring out my vision

So I'd go make the wrong decision

But I know that you'll never be gone"

---------

Virgil and Janus used to be good friends. Really good friends. The kind of friends who would do anything for each other. But their friendship grew to be unhealthy. Toxic even. And when Janus "Self-Care" Sanders asked Virgil if he could find any reason why they should continue to be friends, Virgil realized, then more than ever, that he had to let go. He loved Janus. He was one of the best friends he had ever had. And in the words of Brendon Urie: "If you love me let me go-" Virgil let Janus go. 

That didn't make it hurt any less. 

---------

"I'm blaming you that I've been cruel and mean to all my friends

Cuz I've become so rude and now another friendship ends

But now I started seeing clearer

I saw your face up in the mirror

Yes I'm the one to blame"

--------

Virgil shattered. 

He knew it was his fault. Who else could have caused this. Janus was big on self-care. If he had issues, he went to see a therapist, but Virgil,  oh Virgil, he wouldn't. Dare he say he couldn't? Therapy cost money, money that he couldn't really spare. 

But he could have done better. He could have listened to Janus when he told him to get help. But he didn't. Why exactly, he didn't know. Stubborn? Lazy? Most likely. But he did try to keep his problems from Janus. Keep them tight to his chest. He couldn't burden others with his issues. He should have known better. 

--------

"That's why I bang my head against the wall

Cuz I don't like myself at all

Wish that I could cut all the ties

And now my life is such a tragedy

Cuz I'm my biggest enemy

I can't look myself in the eyes

It's I against me

I against me

I against me

(I, Me... I)"

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

Virgil isolated himself. He thought it would help. He really did. It only succeeded in making himself feel lonely. So lonely that he didn't feel like he could ever reach out. He didn't feel like he could bring up events in his life. From time to time he did, on things he didn't feel alone in dealing with, but when he felt truly and utterly alone, he didn't reach out. He couldn't reach out. That eventually led to possibly one of the biggest mistakes in his life. 

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

"I'm hurting everyone around me

And I'm regretting it profoundly

But I finally see that the reason is you

Another day another struggle

Because I'm always causing trouble

And I hate what you're making me do"

----------

Janus did not see their relationship as healthy. Virgil couldn't think of any reason for them to be friends other than he wanted to and he felt less lonely when talking to Janus. Even when he isolated himself, talking to Janus sometimes made him forget. But Virgil knew he was just being selfish. He was stifling Janus. Janus deserved a much better friend than Virgil could ever be. 

And when Janus got cold feet, Virgil took over and let go. Better he deal with all the guilt than his friend. Ex-friend. 

Self-loathing wasn't far behind. 

----------

"I'm blaming you that I've been cruel and mean to all my friends

Cuz I've become so rude and now another friendship ends

But now I started seeing clearer

I saw your face up in the mirror

Yes I'm the one to blame"

-----------

Virgil had cried himself to sleep the night before, "to sleep on his thoughts" Janus had suggested, he ended up with a stuffy nose before finally falling asleep. He didn't think he would be able to cry anymore after it actually ended but he supposed things do always go the way you think they do. He didn't think he would be the one to actually leave. It was just one more thing for Vitgil to blame himself for. Maybe it wasn't exactly a healthy thing to do but, Virgil needed to realize the truth. This was his fault, no one else's. He was the one to make the friendship toxic. No one else but him. He was told to get help and he didn't.  His dad and stepmother were right, he didn't know how to change. 

-----------

"That's why I bang my head against the wall

Cuz I don't like myself at all

Wish that I could cut all the ties

And now my life is such a tragedy

Cuz I'm my biggest enemy

I can't look myself in the eyes

It's I against me"

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

Virgil had dealt with friendships end before. He really couldn't think of anyone he knew who had ever stayed his friend throughout his whole life. There were people who went and came back and then went again. There were people who were friends but more out of obligation like they were family or they had no else at the time and needed someone. Virgil had had a few friends throughout his lifetime but never really any best friends. At least not ones where it didn't seem one sided. He should have realized the ending of his friendship with Janus was going to hurt a whole lot more than the ones before. 

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

"Me against I

A torturous battle

A one-sided fight

I'm willing to lose if it means

That I win in the end

Now the war is on

As we both collide

I just hope I will survive"

-----------

Virgil sat in his room. He couldn't go to his mom or aunt. He couldn't let them know what happened. He could deal with this on his own. There wasn't a rule that dealing with something on one's own required them to actually be able to handle the crushing weight of emotions pushing him down into the ground. 

Movies sometimes depicted people talking to their siblings if they couldn't or didn't want to go to an adult when they were hurting. But his brother wouldn't understand and he couldn't trust him not to tell anyone. And his sister...well, he hadn't heard from her in a while. He wasn't sure why, if it was because she thought he had been in on it when their brother set up a group video call and added their mother or if it was because of the letter. 

He had said things about their mom in the letter, hoping to get the 4 year silence between them to end, but maybe it was what he had confessed at the end of the letter that had stopped their communication. Maybe it wasn't the right idea to come out as Bi in a letter but how else was he supposed to be certain only his sister would hear? 

Yes, Virgil was trying to distract himself from the events of earlier that morning by thinking of other things that upset him. Not healthy but it kept him from crying for the most part so he counted it as a win. Except nothing could ever seem like a win on that day. More like a consolation prize. Like, "Hey you woke up today! You get to breathe!" But eventually, he would have to let reality run him over. 

-----------

"That's why I bang my head against the wall

Cuz I don't like myself at all

Wish that I could cut all the ties

And now my life is such a tragedy

Cuz I'm my biggest enemy

I can't look myself in the eyes

It's I against me"

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

Virgil often wondered what was wrong with him. Why some things didn't seem to make him react the ways others did. He really wished someone would just tell him everything that was wrong with him and why so he could fix it all. Most of the time when he tried to fix things he had messed up with before, he only ended up making things worse. It happened when he lived with his dad and now he was living with his mom. 

He wanted to change. Really, he did. At least he thought so. But people were telling him he wasn't changing. And of course they had to be right. He really wasn't changing. He was just fooling himself into believing he was. And he had fooled other people into believing he was. His mom was right, he really was manipulative.  

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

"Bang my head against the wall

Cuz I don't like myself at all (Ohh)

Wish that I could cut all the ties (Ohh)

And now my life is such a tragedy (It's I Against Me)

Cuz I'm my biggest enemy (Ohh)

I can't look myself in the eyes (Ohh)

It's I against me"

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

Maybe, Virgil thought. Maybe I'm not supposed to have friends. I don't deserve them and they deserve better than me. Tears spilled fast and heavy from Virgil's eyes. Maybe I was just meant to be alone. 

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

"I against me

I against me"

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

Everything taglist: @spxced-oxt @superwholocked-for-life @mirror2thespirit @aroundofapplesauce @lyditist @@little-euro-girl @unicornofdarknessstuff @maryann-draws @odette-ssbu

[poepoe-thebunny]

A Story Told in Chords:

A little ditty inspired by @rudolph-sackville-bagg posts about a TLV Musical. Truly, you should stop encouraging my madness with your brilliance, I’m still not sure what this is supposed to be but you can all have it I guess. 

‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘

Rudolf’s first memory is of music. It is of music and dancing, and laughter that is loose and free in a way he has never seen before. The clan has come together for a celebration, and his older family members play on instruments that were crafted before he was born. The notes are warm like the wood of their bows’ and the strings bounce sounds into the air that pull the family into a dance. Rudolf and Anna watch, side by side, as their parents dance to the summery music of Vivaldi’s ‘Sinfonia in C Major.” Gregory tells them that, according to their aunt, it was played on their wedding night. Rudolf thinks he has never seen them look so in love before.

Tony’s first memory is of laughter. It’s laughter, and music from a staticky old radio in a busted old ford with their camper in the back. The Thompson’s are going camping this weekend, traveling far out from the city accompanied only by each other and Donna Summers “On The Radio” and Cher’s “If I could Turn Back Time”. His mother is dancing in her seat while matching Tony’s voice word for word while the Queen  of Disco plays, and his father is laughing at their shared ridiculousness. 

Much like Gregory, Rudolf had never been blessed with the ability to keep still. something that drove his parents up the wall as they chased after their wayward children. Yet Rudolf remembers the way his father smiled at him as his second-born learned his first dance, springy feet stuttering out the steps to Joseph Haydn’s symphony no. 94 “Surprise”. And what a surprise it was when Rudolf, feeling lighter than air, began to float. His aunt and mother cooed at the boyish grin on his face while he danced, only to fall flat on his face the moment the music stopped. Anna and Gregory laughed at him then, although they never quite got over Rudolf mastering flight first. 

Tony’s father has an old acoustic that he plays sometimes. For nothing more than stories and folk songs, but he plays for Tony every time the boy asks. Tony watches his fingers move while he sings Chuck Berry and Eric Clapton,  entranced by such simple sounds as his mother hums along in the background. Their favorite is “When You Say Nothing at All,” and Tony wonders how his mom can look so happy despite being misty eyed. Later on, he finds out it was the song they danced to at their wedding. 

Rudolf learns the Violin to his siblings harp and cello. He enjoys it quite a bit, not as much as flying, or even dancing, but he takes to it well enough. While his father can be quite grumbly about some of the “new fangled noise” he learns, Rudolf loves the time spent working his bow and fingers over the strings. He’s not quite as skilled as some other members of their family, but he supposes even they had to start somewhere. He plays “Au Clair de La Lune”, a small beginner piece that makes his face burn when standing before his family. He’s almost envious of Gregory’s cover of Johannes Brahms, his sound smooth and rounded compared to Rudolf’s own. But afterwards Gregory ruffles his hair in congratulations and sends him a fanged tooth grin, and Rudolf suddenly remembers the look of pride on his brothers face when Rudolf took the stage. 

Tony’s head is wrapped up in monsters and magic and siren songs. He’s a world away dreaming of glowing red eyes and hypnotic voices. In between school and being out with the neighborhood kids he’s in his room, strumming on the old acoustic his father had given him. His mom and dad taught him Elvis and he plays “Can’t Help Falling in love,” despite being too young to know what love is, except for the sound of laughter and music. He never plays for anyone except for maybe his parents. They have jam sessions together every now and again, and he laughs at his dad’s dancing and drinks way too much soda. Tony plays almost as good as his dad now, and strums out Elvis with his dad keeping the beat. He thinks of the way they look at each other when Allison Krauss comes on and wonders if that is love. 

As with flight, Rudolf takes to music like a duck to water. Oh his siblings can more than hold their own, hundreds of years of practice can do wonders. But for Rudolf it’s more. Rudolf learns through his music; about passion and love and grief. He learns forgiveness, watching his brother and father perform “Nuvole Blanche” on their cellos, side by side for the first time since Gregory’s return. But Rudolf learns more; he learns grief from Romeo and Juliet, and love from the Italian operas, and a hundred other stories he never had the chance to have. Rudolf sings, crooning love songs until his voice runs smooth with practice, putting his unbeating heart into words meant to reach someone, even if he doesn't know who. And that, that is what he learns the most about. Rudolf wants to love, he wants the love of legends, the kind of love where stories are told a thousand time’s over, where the world will watch in awe the depth of his feeling. 

Then they meet. 

And Tony is in awe at his larger than life friend. With his scarlet eyes and humming voice. He fumbles with his words and his strings, unsure if his slow songs and simple sounds could ever hope to impress the ever elegant vampire. Tony has no training beyond the basics and the ability to pluck strings, his voice is not refined but instead made for singing low and scratchy in a room full of stories. Despite this, Tony plays “Dust in The Wind” while swaying in his seat. “Country Roads” Tells Rudy all about the vast skies and mountains his family would visit during the summer, and all the memories in between. And with his heart beating a staccato rhythm and the moonlight overhead, he strums out the simplest and most honest song he can think of. Tony can’t hit the low vocal notes, so if he switches to a higher register that’s alright. Rudolf doesn’t seem to care, watching Tony croon Elvis’ “love me Tender” with the sweetest voice he can. Elvis is no Allison Krauss, but it seems simple love runs in the family. 

And Rudolf melts at the sound, and the honesty in Tony’s voice. And what can he do but return the sentiment? He floats his way up to Tony’s window after sunset, Puccini’s “Vissi d’arte” on the strings of his violin. Rudolf lets the sweet sound float between them, the song glimmering with young love, watching the smile reach his mortal’s eyes. Rudolf teaches Tony to dance, and then fly, to Romeo and Juliet’s overture. And they are laughing as they spin about the room, feet never touching the floor. And while it isn’t Vivaldi, is it theirs and Rudolf enjoys it just the same. 

[thephantomcasebook]

Matt’s “Reasonable” Downton Abbey Movie Sequel Pitch

Since I’ve been known to take extreme flights of fancy ... maybe wedding Downton Abbey continuity to Pulp and Classic Adventure stories in the past ... this time I’m gonna pitch something that is plausible on the Silver Screen.

The Summery:

Set in the Mid-1950′s. Lady Mary Talbot hosts a house party at Downton Abbey, like the old days, before the war. However - during the party - a maid is found dead. Miles from competent investigators, Edward Pelham enlists the help of his childhood hero and older cousin, the Earl of Grantham, George Crawley. Once a famed adventurer and war hero - no one has seen or heard from him since the war ended. He has chosen solitude and exile in the seclusion of Crawley House with his young son and his faithful butler Thomas Barrow. 

Together, with the help of old friends, the two cousins try to unveil the murderer that is on the loose in Downton Abbey looking to avenge an old sin from the past. 

PRINCIPLE RETURNING CAST: 

 Lady Mary, Lady Edith, and Tom Branson -  Michelle Dockery, Laura Carmichael, and Allen Leech 

Lady Rose Aldridge, “Dowager Countess of Sinderby” - Lily James 

Mrs. Lucy Branson - Tuppence Middleton 

Anna Bates - Joanne Froggett  

Thomas Barrow & Richard Ellis - Richard Collier & Max Brown

NEW PRINCIPLE CAST

Captain George “The Comet” Crawley, Earl of Grantham - Henry Cavil  

Crippled during battle while Storming an SS held Austrian Castle in May 1945, George Crawley chose seclusion rather than Downton Abbey. For the last ten years he has retreated from the world. Surrounded by Libraries of ancient texts and Medieval Chronicles - glass cases filled with trophies and artifacts from his adventures -  George broods darkly over the death of his men and a betrayal by the one he loved most in Matthew Crawley’s old chair by the fire..  

However, his young idealistic cousin rouses the once heroic and valiant adventurer back to action with the encouragement of his son Jason Crawley and Thomas Barrow, who believe George has sat idle too long and must become the leader and man of action he once was.

“Well, well, well ... if it isn’t Captain George “The Comet” Crawley himself. The most Dangerous Man in the whole Empire, this one was ... Once. 

“Yes, I dare say, and how are you holding up these days, eh, Old Boy?!” 

“With a cane.” 

Ms. Sybil “Sybbie” Branson - Jessica De Gouw  

A Genius Mechanical Engineer, Sybbie was once the partner and companion of George Crawley on many adventure and stayed by his side throughout the war. However in 1943, during a mission with their SOE Commando Team in Greece, Sybbie Branson turned coat on the Allies and  was revealed to be a Nazi Agent ... Her betrayal caused the unintended death of John “Johnny” Bates Jr. 

Captured in Austrian Castle in May of 1945 at great cost in George’s blood and the lives of his men by her fanatical suitor and body guards, Sybbie was tried at Nuremberg for helping design super weapons for the Nazis. However, just before her execution, at the last moment, she was reprieved and recruited by “Operation Paper Clip” ... some believed sparing her life was the last thing George did before going into seclusion.

Ten years later, Ms. Sybil Darcy splits her time in Hollywood as an Oscar winning actress and a Southern California Military Base where she helps develop rockets for a fledgling American Space Program. It is only by chance that on another guilt ridden drinking binge that she awakens at the doors of Downton Abbey - her childhood home - where her International Playboy fiance was invited to Lady Mary’s House Party.

“When I’m in his arms all I can think of is home, and when I think of home all I can think of is you. I know what I’ve done is evil and can never be forgiven. And I don’t ask for it from you ... all I ask is that you wait for me ... please, don’t leave me here alone. I don’t remember what this world was like without you in it, And all I know is that I cannot live in such a world. I know you don’t want to hear it, but I love you, and I’ll never stop ... Never.”

Lady Marigold Fraser, “Countess of Tarahill” - Elizabeth Henstridge 

During the “Battle of Britain” and “The Blitz” Corporal Marigold Crawley served as a operator and airwoman in the RAF control room. When George and Sybbie’s squadron was sent to break the Siege of Malta and fight in the North Africa Campaign , Marigold would not be left behind. Thus, she resigned commission and became a War Corespondent for her Mamma and Aunt Laura at “The Sketch” - covering George and his men’s exploits from the ‘safety’ of Sybbie’s mechanic’s hanger. Later, during Sybbie’s arch betrayal, Marigold used her media and diplomatic pass as a Marquess’s step-daughter to rescue a hunted George with the help of local resistance. She went on to cover D-Day, Market Garden, and the Battle of the Bulge while attached to a much darker and violent George and his Commandos, 

Marigold was vaulted as a “Female Pioneer in Journalism”. But falling in Love with a Scottish Colonel in the British Airborne during Market Garden, she chose marriage rather than her career. But 10 years later the call of adventure is stirred in the societal matron’s blood once more upon her reunion with best friend George and a Mystery to solve.    

“Do you ever think of it, George?”

“The war?” 

“Would you think me terrible if I told you that I miss it?” 

“What particularly do you miss about the Ardennes or Arnhem Bridge?”

“It’s not the places, not the snowy woods all bundled tight together in our freezing foxhole under artillery fire, or escaping Holland on rubber rafts in the middle of the night ... I miss our men, I miss ... waking up in the morning and knowing that we were apart of something, that it was you and me, and the old chaps, against the world ... I miss being useful, George. I guess, I’d rather like to feel that way again.”  

Ms. Caroline Talbot - Daisy Ridley 

Beautiful, Spoiled, Clever, Selfish, and Effete, the co-heiress to “Branson & Talbot Motors” has spent her life attempting to get a rise out of her mother. As most desirable of debutantes and Crown Princess of British High Society, Caroline spends her days scheming and contriving against other society girls, of whom she loves to torment. Her nights in nightclubs spent drinking and dancing, waking up in different beds throughout the poshest London Houses. 

 She loathes her mother, and blames Henry’s death on George, whose Spitfire shot down the German Bomber that crashed into Henry and Bertie’s train during “The Battle of Britain”. With George and Sybbie having never gotten along with, or been able to stand, Henry - Caroline believes George plotted her father’s death.

However, her arrogance and anger is dropped only in the presence of her best and only true friend, her cousin Edward. The only person in her unhappy life of whom she knows she truly loves.

“JUST SAY IT, MAMMA! WHY CAN’T YOU SAY IT! Why can’t you just say you didn’t love him! I’m certainly not the first unloved child ever born to a widow looking for a cheap thrill! I guess I owe you enough thanks for at least marrying Daddy!”

“Oh, pipe down, you spoiled little bitch!” 

“Shut up, you Nazi whore! You two ran off to have your little adventures and you never stopped to think, just once, about me!” 

“Jesus H. Roosevelt Christ! Here we are again! What could you possibly want more of?! Huh? You got everyone’s attention!” 

“George, leave it!.” 

“No, no more, mom! She got everything I didn’t! She got a mother and father, parents! You left me behind so that you and Henry could start your trendy new fashionable family! You took their side against me! You and Uncle Tom! Just so you can continue to play grab ass with your pathetic little trio! I spent years away from home, Christmases at Aunt Edith’s, all because Henry didn’t want me here! MY OWN HOUSE! And still, after all that, his brat wants more! So, what, Goddamnit!?  What do you want from me, Caroline!?” 

“YOU! I wanted my brother! I loved you and I needed you! And you left me with HER!

Lord Edward Robert Pelham, “Marquess of Hexham” - William Moseley

Upright and just minded, Lord Hexham grew up on the stories of adventure and mystery that his older cousins, George and Sybbie, were famous for. At the death of his father in the war, he looked up to his cousin George as a male role model. 

Thirteen years later, while on break from Oxford - he is not sure what to do with his life. Determined to save his beloved best friend Caroline from a nose dive of alcohol and sex turning into a death spiral, he finds himself at Downton Abbey - a guest of his Aunt Mary - when a murder takes place. But when the Killer leaves a message that it would only be the first. it seems everyone turns to him - as senior peer - for guidance. Unsure what to do, he goes to find his old mentor, George - who has much more experience in this kind of danger and mystery.  

“I don’t know, Marigold ... sometimes I think I’m the wrong man for this job.” 

“Nonsense. In fact, rising above the bias of an older sister and the person who helped raise you, I just happen to think you’re the perfect man for the job.”

“I feel ashamed sometimes. There are lads out there that don’t have two pounds in their hands. And here I am, a Marquess, leaving Oxford, to snuggle up to my big sister’s beast, because, I’m frustrated.”

“Well, they are fantastic breasts.” 

“I’m serious ... I just, I keep telling Caroline that there’s more in life. But I feel like it’s all just words. Neither Mummy nor Papa were ever so ambitious. And it’s not that I want more power, how could I? It’s just ... I feel like there’s something out there, waiting for me to get into its shouting distance.”

Jason Matthew Crawley, Lord of Downton - Unknown (I don’t know child actors)

Born in 1944 to an unknown mother of whom George refuses to speak of to anyone. Mary and the rest of the family were shocked and confused to find George return from the war hobbled on a cane and carrying a toddler that was unmistakably his son.  

Ten years later the blue eyed raven curled boy attends the local Downton school, but is often pursued by high ranking academies for his extremely high intellect. But George refuses to entertain sending him away. Spending most days with Mary,Tom, and Edith, the boy is famed around the county for his Holmesian deduction skills ... and aptitude for machinery - which his father refuses to allow him to pursue. Serving as his father and ‘Uncle Edward’s’ assistant while investigating the murder, they find him a much bigger help than they thought possible.

“You listen to me, Cowboy ... cause I’m only going to tell you once. You stay away from Sybbie, do you understand me?”

“I was just saying that she’s beautiful -” 

“Under no circumstance do you go near her or even speak to that woman.”

“But what does a movie star want with me?”

“This conversation is concluded, mind what I say.” 

“But, Pop ... wha -?”

“That’s an order, Cowboy.”

“Ye- yes, Sir.”

[revengersfanfics]

Roger Stevenson (Steve Rogers x Reader)

Summary: You’re desperate to get your family off your back about having a boyfriend, so you pull a certain super soldier into a sticky situation.

Pairing: Steve Rogers x Reader

A/N: I would like to preface this by saying: I wrote this three years before Endgame came out on Wattpad, but I haven’t posted it on Tumblr because I knew people were going to think I was jumping on the Roger Stevens bandwagon 😂 Anyways, I hope you enjoy! -C

She let out a sigh before making her way to the park where her niece’s birthday party was being held. She’d been dreading it for days. It wasn’t that she didn’t love her family. She adored them, but they had a habit of meddling in her love life even though she’d told them on countless occasions that she was perfectly capable of finding a significant other on her own.

“(Y/N)!” Her mother exclaimed. She pulled her into a hug. “You know, you really should visit more often. We haven’t seen you in ages.”

“It’s only been like two months,” she giggled. “Plus I’ve been swamped with work.”

“You know, it’s okay to not work for five minutes,” her mom half joked and half scolded. “That reminds me, your father’s boss’ son was asking about you the other day.Your father could set you up with a date Saturday?” There it was. She was trying to think of some bullshit excuse as to why she wouldn’t be able to go when she noticed a tall muscular blonde walking beside her.

“Hey honey,” she pulled the complete stranger into a hug. The man tensed up at the sudden contact, but even so, he didn’t immediately call her out and/or punch her in the face. Perhaps he noticed the look of complete and utter desperation in her eyes.

She wasn't sure why she did it. It would’ve been so much easier to explain a fake event she had to attend, but no. Instead she had to follow a cheesy romantic clichè and bring a fake boyfriend into it.

“Sorry I was late, doll,” he smiled. “Traffic was terrible.”

“Mom, this is my, uh, boyfriend…” She gave a weak smile. She was ready for her conspiracy to crumble at any moment.

“Uh,” he paused as if he’d forgotten his own name. His previous strong facade was beginning to deteriorate. “Roger Stevenson… It’s so nice to finally meet you, your daughter has told me so much about you.” It was amazing how well he recovered. She was sure the guy must’ve been an actor and if he wasn’t, he most definitely missed a calling.

Her dad made his way over pretty soon after, probably to threaten poor Roger.

“You must be her father,” Roger smiled. “Hi, I’m Roger.” He stuck his hand out for your dad to shake.

“That’s quite a grip you’ve got there, Roger,” her dad grinned.

“Aunt (Y/N)!” A smile crept onto her face upon seeing her niece. She ran up and jumped into her arms. “You came!”

“Of course I did! What kind of person would I be if I missed my favorite niece’s sixth birthday?” She squeezed the little girl tightly before setting her back down on the ground. “I’m telling you, if you keep growing, you’re gonna have to start carrying me around!” She let out a giggle.

“Yeah, tell me about it,” her sister laughed. “We’re getting old. Who’s this?” She looked over at Roger.

“This is Roger,” she introduced him. “Roger this is my sister, Anna.”

“He looks like Captain America,” her niece stated bluntly. She didn’t notice the man’s striking resemblance to the superhero until then, but he could’ve been his twin.

“You know, I get that a lot and I really don’t see it,” he chuckled nervously. By that point her niece had lost interest and run off to play with her friends some more.

“So, what do you do for a living, Roger?” Anna questioned.

“I uh… I own a pet shop,” Steve hated lying, he really did. For one, he was absolutely terrible at it, and two, it was just wrong. He’d conjured up his fake persona because he wasn’t sure who her or her family were and he wasn’t sure if he could trust her, but now he just felt awful. He wasn’t sure why. She literally dragged him into it, but both her and her family were so nice.

“Oh that’s great!” Her mom exclaimed.

“We should probably get going,” she announced shortly after. She didn’t want to stay as long as they did because she didn’t want Roger to be any more uncomfortable than what she’d already made him, but he seemed to have a blast after the initial interrogation from her family. He absolutely loved her niece, which would make the inevitable ‘breakup’ that she’d have to make up later, even harder.

“Oh my god, I’m so sorry,” she gave the man a wide-eyed look as soon as they were out of earshot of everyone. “I know I probably seem like a complete lunatic because even I think I’m a complete lunatic at this point.”

“Don’t worry about it,” he smiled. “Trust me, I did my fair share of misleading today as well. When I left the house this morning I was Steve Rogers and single.” Steve Rogers. Her niece had been right. He was actually Captain America. She wasn't sure how she hadn’t pieced that together before. “Sorry for lying, I just wasn’t completely sure if I could trust you, but I think I can safely say you’re not dangerous.”

“You know, I hardly think you should be the one apologizing for lying,” she giggled. “But I will say, maybe Roger Stevenson isn’t the best fake name.”

“I’m not good under pressure,” he laughed. “Although, it did work. You didn’t know it was me.”

“That’s true, I’ll give you that one,” she laughed. “I should probably get going.” She sighed. She didn’t want to leave yet, but she assumed that after everything she’d put the poor guy through, he’d probably want to leave.

“Wait, I was wondering if you’d like to go get a bite to eat tomorrow night?” He scratched his neck nervously. “You know, since we are dating and all…”

Out of all the things she expected him to say, that certainly wasn’t it. She’d literally dragged him into being her fake boyfriend, but apparently he didn’t mind too much. “Yeah,” she smiled. “I’d like that.”

[paodequeijofeliz-blog]

Don’t you remember?

Bloodbound Fanfiction (characters and main story belongs to Pixelberry Studios).

Pairing: Kamilah Sayeed and MC (Annie)

Information: this takes place long after Bloodbound 3. In this scenario, MC was Turned only after giving birth to their daughter.

Summary: Thirty years after meeting Annie for the first time, now Kamilah is married and has a daughter who is about to get married as well. While preparing the wedding, they decide to remember Lysia’s childhood stories.

Warnings: just fluff.

Part 1 Part 3

Don’t you remember? - Part 2

January 8th, 2049

           They decided to have lunch at Annie’s favourite Italian restaurant. It was right around the corner, and Kamilah was definitely in the mood for some good wine. She asked for their best bottle of Sauvignon Blanc, watching as her wife smiled across the table. So many years ago, they sat at a different restaurant and shared their first bottle of wine. Ever since, Kamilah kept asking for the same type, even though it wasn’t her favourite. It had good memories attached to it.

           “Bring five glasses, please. And make it two bottles. We’re expecting more company.” Annie smiled at their confuse expressions. “I texted Adrian and Lily, they’re coming for lunch too.”

           “Aunt Lily is back already? The wedding is not until two weeks.” Lysia crossed her legs, a proud and perfect posture, just like Kamilah.

           Annie, on the other hand, looked like a child playing with the fork and the empty plate. “She’s your godmother, it’s her duty to help us organizing it. Annnnnnnnnd Lil loves planning parties. We stayed up all night putting together the perfect playlist.”

           “Should I be afraid?” Lysia sighed, already imagining what kind of songs they chose.

           “Nah, I promise we behaved.” She winked at her daughter, watching the waiter bring their wine almost at the same time Adrian and Lily walked in. “Perfect timing, you two.”

           “Lucky us for being just down the street. Hi, sweetie.” Adrian gave Lysia a tight hug, sitting right beside her, while Lily placed loud kisses on both girl’s cheeks before going to Annie’s side.

           Kamilah was the first to lift her glass, already used to her wife’s love for toasts.

           “To the best person ever born in this planet!” said Annie, followed by ‘cheers’ from the rest of the group.

           After a sip of wine, the Egyptian gently placed a hand on her daughter’s shoulder. “Sweetheart, I believe we promised your mother we would tell baby stories now.”

           “Yes, you did promise me that!!!”

           “Oooh yeah, let’s do it!! My favourite is when I accidentally forgot a chocolate bar on the table, and she ate it all.” Lily chuckled, ignoring the dangerous glare from Kamilah. “Girl, you were a happy kid that day. But I almost got killed because of it.”

           “There was also that time we took you to Disney, and none of these two party pooper over here wanted to let you ride the roller coaster.” Annie pointed at her wife and Adrian with her half empty glass. “Not until you cried so much, they decided to accompany you there. Remember that?”

           “Yes, I would give anything to see it again. Everybody laughing, breathless, messy hair, wrinkled clothes, heart raced, and you two looked like nothing had happened.” Lysia shook her head in disbelief.

           Kamilah smiled proudly. “It takes way more than a kid’s playground to put me breathless.”

           “Yeah. It takes me.” Annie bit her lip, quickly finding her wife’s leg under the table. That only made Lysia sigh at her shameless mother.

“What about you, Uncle Adrian? Do you have a favourite memory?”

           “I do.” His smile was soft as he took one of the girl’s hands. “You were just three years old. The first time you said my name. Don’t you remember, Annie? Tell us.”

           “Hum, I think I do… It was during the spring…”

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

May 22nd, 2023

           Kamilah was late. Not a surprise there.

           Annie got so used to it. Every time they had a night out planned, a sudden phone call or an urgent email would pop up and delay things. That’s why she started to set their dates a couple hours earlier than usual. Now, her wife was an hour late, but it wasn’t even 6pm yet, so there was still plenty of time to finish combing her hair while mumbling alone. “I swear, one of these days I’ll call her assistant and book a fake business meeting. This way, she will be on time.”

           “You actually did it.” Kamilah pinched her nose, interrupting the story.

           “Really, mom?”

           “Yeah. I booked a meeting under the name of Jaden Marshall. You should’ve seen her face when she realized what happened … Anyway, focus.”

           “Aaaaaaaaaaaaaa” screamed Lysia, giggling as trying to run towards the door. Annie already knew what that meant.

           “Hi, Adrian!”

           “Evening, Ann! And hi to you, baby.” He took the girl into his arms and lifted her above his head. Those baby laughs filled the house, echoing through the hallway from where Annie appeared. “Am I late?”

           “No, you’re early. Kamilah is still on the phone.”

           Lysia, who now was well nested on her godfather’s arms, looked back at her mother with those huge dark eyes. “Mommy late.”

           “I know, sweetie. Your mother is always late.” Annie kissed the tip of her nose. “You better behave, okay? And Adrian, please, don’t spoil my baby too much. Between you doing everything she wants and Kamilah wanting her to be totally independent, I’ll go crazy over here.”

           “I won’t make such a promise.” His gaze lingered on Lysia’s face for a moment as slowly walking to sit on the couch. “How can I say no to those eyes?”

           “Ask Kamilah, she does that all the time. Last week, I caught her watching Lysia fall when she was trying to get on top of the bed, and refused to help because, and I quote, ‘mortals need to develop their skills from an early age’.”

           “Talking about me again? Save it for the date tonight, my love.” The Vampire Queen emerged from the stairs, a tone of irony on her voice. She had put an astonishing tight white dress. “Thank you for being here, Adrian.”

           “Not a problem. Take your time tonight. We’ll be fine.”

           Kamilah smiled fondly at them, gently leaning in to kiss her wife, but they were interrupted by Lysia’s voice. The girl had crawled out of Adrian’s lap to energetically point at her mothers.

           “Mommy Kami” she giggled, then shifted to point at Annie. “And silly mommy Anna”.

           “You taught her that, didn’t you?” the Brazilian narrowed her eyes to Kamilah.

           “I have no idea what you’re talking about. She added the ‘silly’ on her own.”

           “Lyshia” the girl pointed at herself while sticking her tongue out, not being able to pronounce her name correctly yet. Then, she turned around, running back to Adrian’s lap. Her small hands went to cup his face, putting their foreheads together. “Andi you, my baby. You are my baby Adian.”

           Kamilah arched her eyebrows, confused. “No, sweetie. You’re the baby. That’s how we call you.”

           But Adrian didn’t listen. He had tears on his eyes, arms holding the girl even closer. “You are the most precious thing in this world. How is Kamilah even able to say no to you?”

           “Easy. Look. Lysia, no.”  

           Annie shook her head. “You’re unbelievable. Let’s go. It’s time.”

           As they were leaving the apartment, even from the elevator, it was possible to hear Lysia giggling happily in there. That sound was so perfect, it would always make Annie’s heart melt inside her chest. She smiled when felt her wife’s arms involving her by the waist, bringing them closer to another kiss.

           “Darling… Do you think something is wrong with Adrian? He has been crying a lot lately.” Kamilah sighed, concerned.

           “No, you shouldn’t worry. He’s just healing.”

           “Healing?”

           “His heart. After those deep wounds, losing a wife and a child, Lysia is helping him heal. Sometimes, babies do that with us. It’s their superpower.”

           “I see…” Kamilah’s expression became serious for a moment. They were already in the parking lot, so she trapped her wife against the car’s door. “If that’s true… Why don’t we make another one of those?”

           Annie gasped. Cofed. Then laughed. “Not that fast, Mrs. Sayeed. If you want another, don’t look at me. Pushing one out was hard enough.”

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

January 8th, 2049

           “WAIT!” Lily held her hands high to stop Annie’s story. “Kamilah wanted another child? How come I never knew about it?”            

           “Because she changed her mind one month after that, when Lysia went inside her office and draw all over her papers. Besides…” her gaze lingered on Kamilah’s face for a moment, considering carefully what to say. “She wanted me to get pregnant again just to delay things. You were worried about me being Turned, weren’t you?”

           “I was just afraid you could regret it. What if a year later you wanted another baby? I needed to be sure you had considered all the alternatives.” The Egyptian leaned to hold her wife’s hands across the table. “I would never forgive myself for taking away your chances of experiencing what I couldn’t.”

           “You didn’t take away anything. I was sure. Still am.” She intertwined their fingers, both sharing a soft smile.

           Next to them, there was Lily trying to steal a picture with her cell phone. “Perfect. This will go to the slideshow for the wedding.”

           “Wait, what slideshow? Oh, for god’s sake, what are you two up to?” Lysia finished her wine in a gulp. “If I see a naked baby picture there…”

           “You won’t.” reassured Lily.

           “…or you will.” completed Annie, dramatically wiggling her eyebrows. “Sorry, kiddo. That’s the family you got.”

           The weirdest and most perfect family it could exist, in Lysia’s opinion.

[seasonal-obsession]

 Six College/University!AU

Profiles and aesthetics✨

Age 22, only child

She has a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Management, and she’s finishing her postgraduate Master’s in Finance

The Castile-Aragon family is old money rich. Her parents own a big company that she’s meant to inherit

Didn’t come out to her family yet. She’s.. not scared, per se, she knows her parents will love her no matter what, but still she feels like she’s disappointing them

(Aragon: I will tell them... eventually. It’s not like I have a serious girlfriend or anything)

Hasn’t gotten used to British weather even though she has been living in England since she was 15. Starts to use winter wear in September ‘cause she’s always cold

Aesthetic: ankle length boots. Has tons of blazers, wears them under a Burberry coat. Turtleneck sweaters and bottom-down shirts. Jeans or wide leg-pants. Likes to wear layered jewelry, has one gold cross chain necklace she never takes off

Age 22, youngest child. She has two older brothers: Edward(the family disappointment) and Thomas(the golden boy)

Their parents kind of pinned them against each other when they were young, so they’re all super competitive. And dramatic. Jane has mosty outgrown this

(Thomas: I get it, you’re jealous. I’d be jealous too if someone was better than me at everything their whole life

Jane: not everything! I’m a better dancer than you *starts dancing horribly*

Parr: hon, you have badly misjudged your own abilities

Thomas: you think you’re better than me?! *also starts dancing terribly*

Parr: nevermind, you got a shot)

Just finished her Bachelor's in Social Work. Used to work part-time at the university’s library, that’s where she met Cathy

They have been dating for about a year and a half. They talked about moving in together, and when Jane scored her internship(full-time counseling job at a public school) they decided to speed things up, since Cathy’s apartment is way closer to it

Proud mama bear of her friend group

Aesthetic: ballet flats. Loves cozy cardigans. And scarves, she likes knitting them. Wears a lot of blouse and skirt convos, and dresses over long sleeve t-shirts. Likes flower patterns and clothing with ruffles. Wears soft, natural looking make-up

Age 21, has an older sister(Mary) and a twin brother(George)

Her father is a politician, and used to be an ambassador in France. Her family is upper-middle class

 She has a Bachelor's degree in Music Composition, and she’s currently doing a foundation degree in Music Performance. She plays the guitar

Sort of disowned. Parents do not agree with her carreer choice, and her father keeps pressuring her to “leave her hobby to do a real carreer, like Law or Politics”. They just now stopped paying for her tuition and most of her expenses, so she’s not exactly broke(..yet)

Aesthetic: heelys

(Parr: Anne, no, we live in the thrid floor and there isn’t an elevetor in our building

Boleyn: ugh fine.. whatever mom

Parr: I’m younger than you!)

black converse. Wears fishnet stockings with e v e r y t h i n g, ripped jeans, shorts, leather skirts. Band T-shirts and plaid fannel shirts. Leather jacket. Ear cuff earrings. Does not own a coat or any proper winter clothes, except this one knitted hat with a pompom

Age 20. No siblings. Her mom raised her alone and she is Cathy’s hero

Just graduated top of her class in record time, girl was tired™. Got a Joint Honours(it’s like a double major) degree in Journalism and English

...who are we kidding, she still tired™. Wouldn’t sleep at all if Jane didn’t drag her to bed

(Boleyn: don’t make me put sleeping pills in your coffee again

Seymour: ..again?)

Both excited and very stressed about having finished her university studies and finding a job

Reluctant mother of the children she has befriended(Anne and Kat)

Aesthetic: oxford shoes. Has reading glasses. Very practical dresser, her clothes always have tons of pockets. Wears overalls a lot. Likes double demin. And stripes! T-shirts with slogans fill her wardrobe, nerdy, sarcastic, funny, she has them all. Has a blue parka with a fur collar

Age 20, has a younger sister, they get along well. Both of them claim the other is their dads’ favourite child(which, true, but they both get to be one’s favorite)

She’s a RA at Richmond Hall, and she’s doing her fourth year of Veterinary Science. Loves dogs so much  

Her family is new money rich. Sister does modelling, and is now the face of the famous Holbein magazine. Anna and her kinda look alike and people tend to think Anna’s famous

Has a motorcycle

She and Catalina play football/soccer together on the university’s team

Aesthetic: combat boots, or running shoes. Faux fur, and faux fur only, will scream at you about animal cruety for asuming otherwise.

(Cleves: and I’m going to be a vet for god’s sake)

Black jeans. Cargo pants. Will wear sports clothes whenever she can manege. Basic top and basketball shorts. Tracksuits. Decided to straighten her hair because it took too much time styling her curls everyday. Has a nose ring. Always paints her nails, mostly metalic colors and reflective nail polish. Huge coats

Age 18, middle child that doesn’t get enough attention. Her parents divorced when she was 10. She lived at her dad’s and occasionally crashed at her grandmother’s or her aunt(Anne’s mom)’s when he travelled

Just started her first year at the university, studies Sociology oriented to Human Rights

She’s very exited to be there because she thought she wouldn’t be able to aford going

Got a cheerleading scholarship. People often underestimate her or call her an airhead, which pisses her off

(Some asshole: wait you have an A level GCE?

Howard: what, like, it’s hard?)

now living at the dorms

Aesthetic: sneakers. Likes to be cute and confortable. Wears leggins a lot(with prints!!), and a crop top or an oversize hoodie. Weakness for sparkles, in everything, definitly loves glitter make-up. Has holographic raincoat. Unlike Anne, she knows how to layer her clothes, everything is winter-wear if you put enough things under it

Yes I know, y’all wanted a fic(..and myself included) and this are random headcanons no one but me cares about BUT—

More drabbles are coming! (I can't lie to you guys, I don’t know if I’ll ever write a multi-chapter fic with the original idea but continue writing little piecces of this AU, it’s tons of fun) 

[ahtohallan-calling]

(the read more glitched so i had to repost the ask as a text post oops)

“Do you need to go to the hospital?”

ummm i took this in the opposite direction of silly sorry :’)

coworkers au post-wmhah

cw for hospitals, serious illness, and mentions of aging/death

“Hey, baby, what’s–”

“Anna,” Kristoff gasps, and her fingers tighten around the phone at the fear in his voice. “We gotta– my dad, he– there was something with his heart, and–”

Anna leans against the counter to steady herself. “Slow down, Kris. What happened?”

“I– I don’t know, Mom just said his chest started hurting and they called 911 and now– and now…”

“Do you need me to take you to the hospital?”

“Please.”

“Okay. Do you want me to get you from work?”

“No, I– I’m almost home.”

“Okay,” Anna says, trying to keep her voice steady and soothing. “I’ll pack us all an overnight bag. You just worry about getting home, okay?”

He lets out a heavy sigh. “Okay.”

—

They start the drive out with Kristoff in the front seat so Anna can reach over and squeeze his hand, but he turns back so often to look at Harper in her carseat that Anna pulls over in a gas station parking lot and says, “Go sit back there.”

It doesn’t take further coaxing. He spends the rest of the drive back to Albany holding on to the little girl’s hand and nodding along as she babbles as if it’s the most fascinating thing he’s ever heard.

Anna knows he wants nothing more than to gather them both up in his arms and hold on tight as he can, to remind himself that they, at least, are okay.

They get caught in traffic, and she glances in the rearview mirror to see his knee bouncing frantically up and down. She reaches back, her fingers outstretched.

“We’re almost there, Kris,” she says softly, and he squeezes her hand.

—

Harper’s still asleep as Kristoff unbuckles her and carries her close to his chest, her round cheek resting against his shoulder. Anna takes the lead, figuring out which parking garage will get them the closest to the cardiology ward. She gets them indoors and to the right waiting room, where Kristoff’s little sister is chewing on her nails and doing her utmost not to cry.

The moment Anna pulls her into a hug, that battle is lost. “It’s gonna be okay, Mags,” she murmurs, holding the younger woman close. “Your dad’s a tough cookie.”

“They won’t let me back there,” Maggie manages to get out. “I came as fast as I could from school, but they said it’s not visiting hours.”

“It will be soon,” Anna soothes. “Look, the sign says they start again at six. That’s only another thirty minutes.”

After a moment she calms down enough for all of them to sit down, and she looks hopefully at Kristoff with red eyes. He nods, understanding, and passes Harper over. The toddler wakes up only long enough to give her aunt a smile before falling asleep again in her arms.

Kristoff reaches across the armrest and takes Anna’s hand, holding on for dear life.

—

At six o’clock on the dot, Bulda appears in the doorway; the lines on her face are deepened by exhaustion, but she gives them all a broad smile anyway. “Come on back, y’all,” she says, waving a hand. “He’s already asking where you are.”

Anna, holding Harper again, follows after Kristoff and Maggie, knowing there’s going to be a limited number of visitors allowed. She hangs back at the doorway, wearing a faint smile as she listens to Cliff’s weak voice as he greets his children.

A kind-faced nurse stops as she walks past and gives her a knowing look. “Go on in,” she whispers. “I won’t tell if you don’t. And tell him I’ll be back by to check on him in twenty minutes, okay?”

“Thanks,” Anna says, and the woman winks and moves on.

The moment she steps into the room, Cliff’s face lights up with a bright smile. “There’s my baby girl!” he says, his voice a little stronger now as he raises his arms to reach for Harper. “I was wondering where you’d gotten off too.”

Harper wakes up at last at the sound of his voice. “Poppa!” she chirps, reaching for him with her own chubby hands as Anna sets her carefully on his lap, doing her utmost to avoid bumping into the lines of plastic tubing attached to his nose and the back of his hand.

Anna moves to stand next to Kristoff; without looking away from his father, he reaches down and entwines their fingers. She rubs her thumb gently across the back of his hand, and he squeezes it in return.

“It was just a little one, kiddo,” Cliff reassures Maggie. “No need to get all worked up over it. I’ll be back home before you know it.”

“You gotta slow down, Daddy,” she says, her voice thick with tears again. “You’re gonna drive the rest of us crazy worrying about you.”

His eyes soften. “Okay, baby,” he says, placating her, although they all know full well he has no intention of doing anything besides exactly what he wants.

They stay the full two hours, catching him up on Harper’s progress and Maggie’s schoolwork and how the beach house is holding up. “You and Bulda’ll have to come stay a weekend sometime soon, Cliff,” Anna says. “We’ll get the sofa bed all fixed up for you.”

He beams at her. “I’d like that.”

—

It’s been so long since they’ve stayed at the old house here that Harper’s too big for the crib. Instead they put her on the big bed between them, reading her story after story until at last she falls asleep curled on her side, one hand clutching the old stuffed bunny they found in the crip and the other reaching towards her father.

Kristoff is quiet for a long time after she dozes off, his fingers stroking absentmindedly through his daughter’s blond curls. Anna just watches him, grateful for a peaceful moment after such a hectic day, until he sighs and drags his gaze up to hers. “You know what I kept thinking about today?”

“What?”

“How just…in my mind, he’s always been invincible, you know? And today it just hit me that I just…I don’t even remember, it’s just like one day I looked over and realized I was taller than him. And now he’s getting older, and now it’s my job to take care of him. And it’s like…you just never really expect that day to come.”

Anna blinks away the sudden tears pooling in her eyes. “Yeah,” she says, and he winces.

“I’m sorry– I wasn’t even thinking about your mom and dad–”

“No,” she says quickly, shaking her head as she reaches over to set her hand against his cheek. “No, it’s not…I’m just sad for you. And I love you, that’s all.”

He nods, just barely. “And it scares me,” he admits, “that one day Harper’s gonna feel like this.”

Anna lets her thumb slide gently back and forth across his cheekbone until he sighs and lets his eyes flutter shut. “Let’s just focus on today for now, honey,” she says softly. “That’s got enough worries in it for now.”

He turns and kisses the palm of her hand. “Why are you always right?”

“Because I’m your wife. That’s my job.” He leans closer, careful not to brush up against Harper’s sleeping form, and kisses the tip of her nose. “And you’re good at it.”

She laughs softly. “Go to sleep, you big old sap.”

“Mhm.” He yawns. “Love you.”

“Love you, too.”

[revengeisalwaysanoption]

FIC: MIO FIGLIO

So, this is something I wrote back in February from Anna’s (Nico’s mom) point of view. I’m very proud of how it turned out, so I hope you’ll enjoy it too :D... Despite the title, IT'S IN ENGLISH

Somewhere in Italy Early morning of a day in 1999

He’s so tiny. So small. So soft and breakable. Perhaps not the most beautiful, but surely the most precious creature on Earth. Her baby.

She can’t bear not to check on her son every five minutes, afraid he might have stopped breathing. It’s awfully stupid, and illogical, she knows that. The midwife she hired came with great recommendations, so there’s no reason not to trust her with both their lives, but... He took his sweet time coming into this world - a little later than scheduled, but who can blame him - and now it’s hard to tear her gaze from him. She keeps covering him in kisses, whispering how much he loves him already.

Ni. Ninì. Nico. Nicolì. Niccolò. Like the singer that brought her and Gioele together, on that sunny 1st of May in Piazza San Giovanni. It was the only name they agreed on, since her husband choices felt too extravagant - “They are going to be the ones having to live with a name like Gertrude, Genoveffa, Gervasio or Giosuè… what’s with you and names starting with a ‘G’, anyway?" - and all her favourites reminded him of people he couldn’t stand.

“We can name her Gertrude, okay?” She tilted her head back then, flashed him her cheekiest smile and pointed at the plush giraffe Gabriella - her sweet sixteen-year old sister-in-law, who had sworn she would make a great pianist out of her first nephew - had brought as a present.

“You don’t have to be a pianist. You can be a singer, a painter, a cartoonist… An engineer, a teacher, a doctor, a bricklayer, a plumber, an electrician… Whatever you wish, Ninì. I swear I’m going to do my best to help you find your call. And when you’ll stumble, mama is gonna be there to catch you before you get hurt too bad. Always.”

Empty promises? Is she going to turn into one of those ‘mother knows best’ ladies, who ignore their children wishes? Is she going to screw up - screwing him up, in the process - along the way? She’s so terrified of all that can hurt him, out there. Including herself.

*******************************

Rome, Anna Furlan & Gioele Fares Apartment Early morning of a day in 2020

He's happy. Happier than she's ever seen him in a really long time. And when she says 'happy', she doesn't mean the euphoric "LOOK, MOM! I'M ON TOP OF THE WORLD!!" state that always leads to a catastrophic crashing down… No, it's more like a calm soothing feeling that has him smiling fondly when she playfully slaps his hand - no, he's not allowed to have a taste before it's ready or, worse, dip his fingers into the batter: who raised him? - and shoos him out of the kitchen with a

"Go make yourself useful, Ninì. There’s some stuff in your old room that need to be sorted.” He looks touched, like he can’t quite believe he’s being trusted to actually know what can be tossed away and what should he should take with him.

He's content, yeah. But for how long? How can she soften the blow, when everything will inevitably fall apart?

She tried, so hard, to teach him not to rely on others when it comes to his own peace of mind… Made sure he'd give his best in trying to build a future for himself. But he's so… Spooked, and vulnerable, always on the lookout… Terrified he might end up alone. Unloved.

How… How can anybody meet her sweet, wide-eyed, cheerful Niccolò and not be instantly charmed by him? Not want to spend the rest of their life by his side?

Okay, he's got his flaws and his fluctuating moods can be hard to deal with. One might end up being his doctor, instead of a parent or a lover… She often catches herself going down that road, and she must admit it's nice to have Martino around to make her notice that. Maddalena would never have dared.

She might have not been exactly thrilled that Nico had fallen in love with him - up to the point she doubted the love itself, preferring to chalk it up to an obsession, an hyper fixation - but he sure won her over with his attentiveness, his willingness to learn from his past mistakes and not let the bad times spoil the best ones. Either the instants they would cherish for the years to come, or the momentary bliss that would be forgotten as soon as they closed their eyes. Both were worth being lived to their fullest.

He is human, imperfect, and proudly so.

And Niccolò wouldn't leave him just because he’s not infallible, would he? So why can’t he extend the same courtesy to himself?

Why, why would he think - even for a second - that he doesn't deserve all the best that the world can offer?

It must have been something she said. Something she did. The therapists have been pretty adamant on that.

‘Stop. Stop there. Stop making this about you. It isn’t. It never was. It will never be.’ She reprimands herself, as soon as she realises where her thoughts are leading her to. ‘Stop regretting what you can’t change, and work on what you can do better from now on. Remember he’s not your baby anymore, he’s an adult who will soon find out that being grown ups doesn’t mean you’ll get handed the answers and that everything will finally make sense in your life. He’s going to have to deal with that on his own… Or with Martino, who’s going through the same earth shattering revelation. You need to step down, step aside… And let him fall, let him live, Anna.’

It’s harder than usual to listen to the rational part of her brain, today, with him having just turned 21. He’s still so tiny… and small… Not weak, though.

She smiles, as she recalls the last meal they had with their relatives down in Gubbio - where her mother-in-law whispered into her ear “I like this one, he gives the best hugs. Reminds me of my dear Giorgio…” while looking at Martino - and all the teasing Niccolò had to endure from them… Until he got up, and said “Bet none of you can do this.” and proceeded to carry a disgruntled Martino over his shoulder. “Mh? What? Can’t hear you over the sound of my amazing strength, Marti. Told you I could do it, but you didn’t believe me…”

“Mom? Mom! You kept her?” Nico snaps out her reminisces, waving a tattered stuffed animal in front of her eyes. She jumps back, nearly dropping the baking tray. He saves it with his free hand, and together they put it in the oven.

“You kept her? Gertrude?” He asks, once again, after she has set the timer and sat down with him at the table. The poor giraffe has lost all of her spots - if she hadn’t seen her in her prime, back in 1999, she might have mistaken this Gertrude for a cow - and an eye. That had caused quite the scare, when she and Gio asked Nico where it had gone and he pointed at his mouth, giggling…

Poor chap, she had been dragged all over the floors and up on every tree that Niccolò had climbed as a child. And then she disappeared, after Maddalena's first visit. He needed to show her he was a man, not a little boy.

“Of course I did… I figured you might want to hand her down to…Another generation?”

“Mom, please…” He rolls his eyes, sighing.

“Hey, hey…” Fingertips on his cheekbones. A kiss on his forehead. Small gestures to reassure Nico that he’s not going to let her down because he won’t ever see himself raising a kid. “You know I don’t really care for a grandchild. It could be the gift from a cool uncle. Fitting, since you got it from your coolest aunt, right? Gabi wouldn’t want Gertrude to end up all alone, forgotten, at the bottom of a dusty box. Didn’t you promise them both a big adventure?”

“You... “ Niccolò whispers, tearing up a little.

“... remember? Of course I do, sweetheart. I’ve still got the birthday card you wrote them when you were five, after all… And what bigger adventure than the life you just started building for yourself?"

"I'm hardly doing that on my own."

"So? Don't sell yourself short. You're doing great..." Oh, is he really too old for a cuddle? Because she definitely feels like they should walk over to the sofa and just thread her fingers through his curls as he dozes off and forget all about his troubles.

The buzzing of the intercom has them getting up at the same time, racing to get it first. He's a damn cheat, no better than his father - what a pair of sore losers - and wins without breaking a sweat. She's hasn't been this silly in a long, long time... and she doesn't even know why.

"Marti?"

Well, maybe she can leave the cuddling to the expert.

[janeyseymour]

Escape- pt 12

pt 1. pt 2. pt 3. pt 4. pt 5. pt 6. pt 7. pt 8. pt 9. pt 10. pt 11.

Jane Seymour has stayed with Henry for long enough. Cue Catherine of Aragon and the rest of the girls to save her.

Jane and Catherine have a late night talk. The girls are let in on a secret. Aside from the beginning, a pretty fluff filled chapter.

“Where the fuck is she?” Henry yelled at Thomas. The two had met accidentally in a gas station and were currently fighting in the parking lot.

“I don't know! Let me go!” Thomas practically cried.

“Yes you do!” Henry gripped the man tighter.

“If I did, I would’ve won her over by now!” Thomas confessed.

“You fucking piece of shit, backstabbing son of a bitch! I’m going to find her first!” Henry threw Thomas to the ground.

“No you won't! You’ll see fucker.” Thomas cringed at his own words. Had he really sunken to Henry’s level?

“Hello?” Jane whispered, trying not to wake the slumbering woman next to her.

“It’s Beale. Henry posted bail. Stay where you are until we find him and you can testify against him.

Jane’s heart hit the bottom of her stomach and whisper-yelled,” He- are you sure?”

“Yes. I’m really sorry Jane.”

“I don’t know why this all has to happen to me,” she pitied herself.

“I’m so sorry. I’m doing all that I can, and I’ll keep you updated.” He hung up.

“Lina?” Jane began to cry. “Catherine?”

“What?” she moaned as she was pulled out of her sleeping state.

“Beale called. Henry’s out on bail. We’re going to die,” she worried aloud.

“We’re going to be okay. I promise; I already told you this.” Catherine wrapped an arm around Jane and pulled her closer.

“That was before we knew.”

“Yeah? We’re going to be fine. Nothing’s changed here. He doesn’t know where you are. Try not to worry so much, okay?”

“How can you tell me not to worry about something that could literally cost us our lives?” Jane bolted upright.

“Honey, just relax and try to go back to sleep.”

“No! I will not go to bed!” The blonde was shaking with anger at this point. “You can't keep staying so fucking calm about this! It’s ridiculous! You shouldn’t have ever been mixed up in all of this in the first place, and here you are! Here you are, risking your life just to keep your stupid and pregnant best friend company!” Catherine shot up at this.

“Are you-” Catherine was cut off by Jane’s lips before she so quickly pulled herself away from the hispanic.

“I’m so-” Jane began.

“Please tell me you’re going to remember this.”

“What?” she asked, slightly taken aback.

“You kissed me before.”

“I what?”

“Over the past month, I’ve been kissed a lot,” Catherine cleared her throat. “By you.”

“Wow.”

“Yeah.”

“Well, I’m not going to forget this one. I don’t want to.”

“Are you saying-”

“Yes. I’ve done so many stupid things. I want to take the leap. I want to be your girlfriend,” she confessed. “As long as you want me to be your girlfriend.”

“Are you positive?”

“Yes. I think I just want to keep this quiet from the others until everything with Henry is over.”

“I’m thrilled with this, but I have to ask why the sudden change? I’m more than okay with waiting.”

“My dad made me realize that sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith.”

“Whatever you want. I already told you: I’m in this for as long as you are.”

The relationship between Jane and Catherine didn’t stay a secret for long.

“Do you think we should just ask?” Kat asked Cathy, the two closest to the other women.

“I mean, I think that if they wanted us to know, they would tell us.”

“They’re dating,” Anne threw in.

“How do you know?”

“Oh please. Even if they say they aren’t, they definitely are.”

“They’re dating,” Cleves stated smugly.

“How do you know?”

“When I tell you I’m observant, I mean it. I know things about you guys that I’m sure you think is too minor for anyone to pick up on. They’re dating.”

“Oh really?”

“Yes. But I also heard Jane call Catherine ‘baby’ like a week ago.”

“You heard that?” Jane appeared in the kitchen, carrying a load of laundry on her bump.

“No?” Anna tried.

“I thought we were alone in the house,” Jane sighed.

“I had literally just come back. I made it like, three steps into the house, heard that, and walked right back out. I don’t need to know what you two do when we’re not here.”

“Anna!” Catherine exclaimed. “We do not do anything like that!”

“Oh yeah right.” Anne smirked. “She’s pregnant. Don’t tell us she’s not-”

“That’s enough.” Katherine covered her ears in case her cousin didn’t stop talking. “I do not need to hear what you think someone I think of as my surrogate mother does with her girlfriend.”

“Surrogate mother?” Catherine questioned. “Does this mean I’m like your-”

“You’re kind of like the cool aunt who’s around all the time.”

“Woah. You think of me as a mother figure?” Jane’s expression was unreadable.

“Jane, don’t act surprised. You might not be all that much older than Kitty here, but you act like her mother sometimes. ‘Kat, don’t forget your lunch!’ “Kat, are you sick? Here, I already measured out your medicine.’ You mom her a lot.”

“I-”

“I don’t really mind Jane. It’s nice to have someone take care of you for once.”

“Hey! I took you in!” Anne was about to fight Katherine for the previous statement.

“Yes, and I’m so grateful for that, but we also do dumb shit together all the time. We got arrested together once and had to spend the night in the holding cell until Cathy could come bail us out. You’re more like my older sister than a mother figure.” Anne nodded. Her cousin had a point.

“So, I guess the cat’s out of the bag?” Catherine went back to the previous subject.

“So, you guys are dating?”

“Yes,” Jane confirmed.

“For how long?” Cathy interrogated.

“Maybe a month?”

“And when were you planning on telling us?” The two women looked at each other.

“We hadn’t really thought that through. We figured you guys would figure us out eventually, just not this soon. Idealistically, we would’ve waited until after the baby was born, but I guess that’s not in the cards anymore.”

“Rude!” Anne burst out. “You just weren’t going to tell us until the baby came?”

“Well, you figured it out anyway.” Jane crossed her arms and gave Anne a defiant look.

“You know-”

“Congrats you two,” Cathy cut Anne off before anything could escalate.

“Thanks Cath,” Catherine pulled her younger cousin close.

“Congrats on finally getting it together enough to stop denying that you two are meant for each other!” Kat chimed in.

“Thank you love.” Jane smiled warmly at the younger woman and opened her arms. Kat flew into them almost immediately.

“You’re doing the mom thing again.”

“Oh well,” Jane sighed happily.

“You’re gonna be a good mom you know,” Kat whispered to the woman holding her with a smile on her face.

“Thank you love.”