#i just want good dad!norman stuff | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

littlegodzilla · 2 years ago

Note

Request if you want to:

Single dad Norman falls for his son's friend's single mom.

I appreciate your writing

Hi anon!!

Thanks for your request! I really enjoyed wtiting it, of course we can say it's an AU from real Norman, I'm not going to talk about Helena or something like this, I took some liberties, hope you don't mind!

Enjoy!!

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

Norman's Secret.

SingleDad!Norman Reedus x SingleMom!Reader.

One shot. Anon request.

Warnings: none.

Words: 5000

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

The alarm clock goes off that damnably early morning. A grunt of frustration echoes through the room as he fumbles to turn off the infernal sound that has awakened him that morning. He huffs lying face up in bed as he rubs his eyes trying to wake up fully. He has never been a morning person, at least not out of obligation, but the week has started again, and he has to be responsible. After a few more minutes of standing still, he gets out of bed looking for some old sweatpants and a sweatshirt. He walks down the hallway of the apartment and opens the door to another of the rooms, doesn't turn on the light, leans over the small body resting under the sheets and touches his blond mane.

"Good morning buddy, it's time to get up." He whispers softly to him receiving a whimper in protest. He smiles and when he feels he's already awake, he lifts the bedroom blinds to let the light start coming in.

"Daddy, it's too early." Protests the little boy again, pulling the covers over his head.

"I know, but we have to go to school, so there's no excuse."

"I don't feel well..." he mumbles under the sheets and he smiles from his position.

"Mingus, don't make me use force..." He threatens him, but when the boy pulls the sheets down, he sees his father grinning mischievously and knows he's lost.

"Daddy, no!" But his father throws himself on the bed, trapping his little body and starts tickling him getting Mingus to squirm laughing. "Okay, okay!"

Norman laughs, kisses him on the head and gets up to fix breakfast warning him that if he's not there in ten minutes, he'll be back with more. Mingus laughs but gets out of bed to get ready and go to breakfast with his father. It has always been just the two of them, Norman and Mingus, Norman has always loved children and has cared for and protected his son the best he has known and knows how, Mingus is now only nine years old and Norman knows that to a lesser or greater extent, his son will always turn to him if he needs him, or so he hopes. Norman had his difficulties with his father when he was young and things didn't get better until the man was in a serious situation and then he was gone, Norman has always regretted not knowing how to fix things sooner and he doesn't want something similar to happen to his son. He is not a spoiled child, or at least Norman tries not to spoil him, but gives him the freedoms and independence he thinks he needs, of course the boy is still learning and his father has to stop him on more than one occasion. But he still thinks he's not doing badly at all.

When the blond boy appears through the kitchen door, he is already dressed for school and is carrying his backpack in his hand, leaving it on one of the free chairs. Norman has prepared breakfast; a bowl of cereal plus some cut up fruit and juice. He sits in front of his son and looks at the notifications on his phone, most are work stuff that he puts aside to check later, others are things from the parent group at school, sometimes he regrets a bit about giving them his number because sometimes they bombard him with unnecessary information, others it is a great help because the parents discuss activities or future important school dates that the child may have forgotten to mention.

"There's a field trip next week." He mentions reading one of the messages and Mingus hums. "Why didn't you tell me about it?"

"Next week you have to travel for your job, remember? I was staying at Uncle Andy's on those days." He tells him with a shrug, chewing his cereal.

Norman stands quietly watching his son, Mingus doesn't seem upset, just indifferent, it's not the first time he's missed an activity because his father can't accompany him, at first his protests led to an argument, but as he got older, Mingus came to understand that sometimes things didn't go the way you wanted and he just accepted that fact, others, like the child he is, he kept protesting and insisting sometimes he got what he wanted and sometimes he didn't.

"It's a multi-day excursion." Norman keeps saying and looks sideways at him, Mingus nods.

"That's why I didn't say anything to you, Uncle Andy can't go with me."

"Sure..." He nods as well putting the phone down on the table and takes a last sip of his coffee. "Finish that and brush your teeth, I'll pick this up and we'll go." He instructs him, Mingus finishes his juice and gets up from the table to get lost down the hallway.

As he watches him leave, hhe looks back at his phone and as he picks everything up, putting it in the dishwasher, he sends several messages. Mingus returns minutes later, ready to leave, Norman picks up his backpack and gestures for him to leave the house, but not before grabbing the bike by the door. Mingus smiles excitedly, he likes it when his father rides behind him on the bike or the motorcycle, it's fun and he feels his stomach swirl when they go at high speed, especially on the motorcycle. Mingus stands upright on the back of the bike and holds onto his father's shoulders as he pedals off in the direction of the school.

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

"Good morning Norman, good morning Mingus." They are greeted by several parents as they arrive at the school gate, Norman holds his son's hand as he pushes the bike with the other.

"Good morning." They greet at the same time.

The school doors have not yet opened, people are clustering at the entrance waiting, some who have more limited time due to work schedules, leave the children in the care of other trusted parents and leave, Norman makes his way through the various groups until he feels a tug on his shirt.

"Dad, there's Riley, can I go say hi?" He asks pointing to the little girl.

"Of course." He can't help but smile in amusement and lets go of his hand to watch him run over to her friend.

Riley and Mingus have been friends since they started school, somewhat scared of change, they connected right away and were almost inseparable. He slowly approaches watching as you, Riley's mother, greet Mingus with a warm smile and ruffling his blond locks. At first Norman found it hard to talk to you, making friends between parents wasn't something he was particularly excited about either, but children made friends and had to have at least a respectful relationship with each other, for the younger ones, with you it was harder, always surrounded by other mothers, curious and gossipy, maybe too interested to know why you were always alone, Norman doesn't deny that he is curious too, but he keeps it to himself. Mingus and Riley were the ones who helped you talk for the first time, it was going to be Mingus' birthday party, the boy had invited all the kids in the class, luckily there weren't many, and some had the privilege of staying over at the apartment, Riley was going to be one of them, but first he had to ask permission from her mother, you.

"Hi, I'm Norman, Mingus' father." He introduced himself to you formally.

"Nice to meet you, I'm Riley's mother." You introduced yourself as well by shaking his hand.

"I guess Riley must have already shown you the card, but we're celebrating Mingus' birthday at home this weekend." He explained and you made a surprised face.

"That cool card was made by you?" you looked at Mingus who smiled proudly.

"Yup!" Norman laughed wanting to find out from whom he had inherited that confidence.

"Mingus wanted to ask Riley if he could have a sleepover that day." He spoke again catching your attention. "There will be other children staying as well, I will be with them at all times and will personally drive them home the next day." He explained to put your mind at ease, you looked at him doubtfully just the same, they were still very young and leaving your daughter with a stranger made you uneasy.

"Mom, please!" Riley tugged on your sleeve, pouting exaggeratedly.

"Well, I guess it might be fun for them." You agreed, watching as the little ones jumped for joy.

"Great, anyway, on the card I've written my phone number, in case there's an emergency or you need to know if Riley's okay, you can call anytime or text me." Norman wanted to calm you down and you smiled gratefully.

"Thank you, Norman, that's nice of you." You assured him honestly.

From that day until today, it has been easier for the two of you to talk and connect. Norman feels that there are still strained issues between you, that you're not quite comfortable, but it's not with him, it's a situation in general, like you can't trust people just like that. Norman tries to always give you your space and not bother you, but he has to admit that his curiosity for you has been increasing every day. It's more than just a physical attraction, he doesn't deny that it's there too, but he feels good talking to you, being close, sharing little moments with your kids, telling anecdotes from school or your day to day life, you don't meet for coffee or drinks as if you were lifelong friends, but every now and then you share a message just to make sure each other is ok, if the day has been hard or just to say you're there.

"Good morning." He greets you both when he reaches you and you smile.

"Good morning, Norman." You respond and Riley turns her attention back to his friend. "Working out since first period?" you joke pointing to the bike with your chin and Norman laughs.

"I'm a sporty guy, I can't help it." He follows your joke and you both let out a chuckle. "I have to go to work later and it's across town, with this it's faster than the subway or car."

"I see, you want me to stay with Mingus? If you're in a hurry..."

"No, no need, I always have time, no problem." He shrugs. He has to admit that being a single parent sometimes at work gives him a certain advantage with the scheduling issue. "I'd like to talk to you about some business..." he tells you, lowering his voice a little, glancing sideways at the kids who are engrossed in their business.

"Is something wrong?" You ask him in the same tone of voice.

"No, it's just... I heard that next week there's a field trip with the school."

"Oh yeah, it's three days, we're going to some museums and an amusement park... Do you want me to take Mingus with us? Riley doesn't have a bus buddy yet so I'll be able to watch them both no problem."

"I actually want to go, but I have to talk to my bosses about letting me have those days off, but I want to surprise Mingus." he smiles and you look at her excitedly and nod. "Anyway, if I couldn't go..."

"Of course Norman, count me in, Riley and Mingus are thick as thieves, so it'll be great if you can go together."

"Thanks, will you keep it a secret for me?" he smiles and you laugh.

"Of course, count on it." You hold up your pinky as a sign of promise, Norman smiles and intertwines his pinky with yours to seal said promise.

Norman feels a strange current running through him, he stares at you, but lets go of your hand and takes a step back not wanting to make the situation uncomfortable. The school doors open, you all say goodbye to your children and when they are inside the building you slowly walk away, Norman walks with you to the nearest subway station, pushing his bike, the two of you plan how you want to do about next week's trip.

"You really don't want me to give you a lift?" he offers, pointing to his small vehicle.

"No offense, but I don't think it can handle both of us." You laugh nervously and shake your head. "But thanks, see you later, Norman."

"Sure, see you later." He waves goodbye to you by hopping on his bike and as you disappear down the subway stairs, he rides away towards his work.

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

Norman needs to pull several strings to get the days off he's asked for, he's had a bit of a falling out with his bosses, but they've finally granted him the full week on the condition that he makes up those hours and works from home during the field trip. Norman doesn't plan to do shit those three days, he wants to enjoy his son, but he will take advantage of the hotel time to get organized. He has made payment for the trip, some parents didn't seem too happy about this, it had been planned in advance and some things had to be modified, you stepped in to defend his situation.

"Riley and I are going alone, we don't need to book another room, or count more bus seats, we all fit right in."

It didn't take long to hear whispers and gibbering about how two adults were going to share a room without being a couple, what would the kids say or what would they think, even Norman's heart skipped a beat at the thought of it, but he really wanted to go on that trip. Once that was settled, he talked Andy out of worrying about taking care of Mingus those days, that he had solved the problem and was going with the boy on the trip. Andy wasn't the little boy's biological uncle, Andrew had been a good friend of Norman's for many years, almost like a brother and he knew he could rely on him for things like that, that he and his wife didn't mind taking care of the blond boy for a few days.

"Are you sure things will be all right at work?"

"Yes, I've arranged it and will go another partner for me, I'll have to make up those days, but I don't mind."

"That's okay man, enjoy the trip and have a good time with Mingus." Andy encouraged him.

So that morning the alarm clock rings earlier than usual, but Norman has no trouble getting up, he is excited thinking about the reaction his son might have when he finds out they are going on a trip. He gets out of bed, finishes packing the suitcase with clothes for the two of them, not much, after all it's only three days, gets dressed and goes to his son's room.

"Wake up, champ, time to get up!" He tells him shaking his little body.

"Dad, it's too early!" He protests seeing on the clock that it's not even time for school.

"I know, but if we want to get to the bus, we have to get up early." He smiles when he sees Mingus' eyes widen.

"Bus?"

"Yes, we're going on the field trip with the school."

"But...you had to go on the trip..."

"I talked to work and another co-worker is going for me." He shrugs.

"But Dad, won't they be mad?"

"Of course not, come on, get dressed." he urges him out of the room to prepare something to eat for the trip and a light breakfast so the boy doesn't get carsick on the trip.

Of course Mingus doesn't stop smiling and bouncing, as if he had suffered a sugar overdose, he squeezes his father's hand, walking quickly, today they had to take the subway to get to school since they couldn't leave the bike there for so many days or take the bike to the excursion. Norman lets his son's excitement wash over him, allowing him to pull him along impatiently, listening to all the plans he has in his head.

"Who will I ride the bus with?" He asks curiously and his father smiles.

"With Riley and her mother, we'll be sharing a room with them at the hotel too." He warns him, Mingus' eyes snap open.

"Dad!" His cheeks take on a ruddy color that make Norman can't hide a giggle.

"Are you embarrassed?"

"Of course not!"

"It's the only spare room left and they don't mind, but if you want I can ask for a room just for us." He says pulling his cell phone out of his pocket and quickly Mingus grabs it by the wrist.

"No, no, no, never mind." He shakes his head and Norman wraps an arm around him, pinning him to his side.

"Come on or we won't make it."

The school entrance is full of parents and children with backpacks and different suitcases, some bigger, some smaller, all waiting for the bus to arrive to start the field trip. Norman gestures to his son as you and Riley spot them. The boy greets his friend effusively as they walk over to you, Norman drags the suitcase over and takes the backpack off the boy so he can go play with his friend and the rest of his classmates.

"Good morning." You greet him, Norman shakes his head in greeting coming to your side. "Are we still waking up?" you poke him laughing.

"Hush, don't think it didn't cost me." He snorts rubbing his eyes.

"How did Mingus like the surprise?"

"I think he's still processing it, he got quite a surprise, but he loved the idea."

"I'm glad, I would have loved to see his face." You comment watching the kids play.

Norman has to bite his tongue in time to keep from saying that to himself too. He doesn't want to do anything awkward, but for a while now Norman notices that the friendship you two have, for him is becoming something more, he likes you, he finds you a very interesting woman, funny, off topic attractive, but he has never made a move for fear of not being reciprocated and that it could affect the friendship between the two children. He's an adult, he knows he can control the situation without it being violent to either of them.

"Everything okay at work?" you ask him then, Norman nods.

"I'll have to work at the hotel, when we have a moment, but I'm not leaving Mingus alone." He shrugs. "I'll make up those hours any way I can."

You look at him curiously, you have to admit you love to see Norman pouring himself into his son like that, work is important, they have to get ahead, but no more so than his family, Mingus is now at an age of absorption and growth, having his father figure around to teach him and take care of him will be meaningful to him. Sometimes you'd like to ask why it's just the two of them, but then you remember that he might ask you the same question and your body aches just thinking about it. Norman takes out a box of cigarettes and lights one, moves a little away from the group of parents so as not to disturb anyone, and fiddles with it between his fingers. You approach him, placing yourself next to him, you have never liked tobacco smoke, but it's funny how that same smell relaxes you when traveling, your family has always been smokers and the smell of a new car makes you more dizzy than the smell of tobacco.

"Sorry, but it's going to be a long trip and I don't think we'll be making many stops." He apologizes pointing to the cigarette.

"Never mind, we all have our vices." You joke but he nods.

When the bus arrives, the children are placed with their seating partner, the teachers number them and the parents do their own mental head count to make sure no one is left behind. You and Norman sit together in the seats behind Mingus and Riley, all the kids can't wait for the field trip to start, they can't stop laughing and talking, chaos is assured, but it's a good thing. The parents keep a silent eye on them, making sure they don't get into any mischief that might disturb or distract the driver. You and Norman can feel the eyes of the other adults on the back of your necks, but you don't say anything. Halfway through the trip the vast majority of the children have fallen asleep and all the parents relax at the same time.

The first day's excursion is educational, they will go to several museums, an aquarium and have a little guide around the city, in the evening they will go to the hotel to check in and have dinner and the next day they will go to the amusement park, then the last day will be educational again stopping at several places on the way back home.

"It's going to be a tough day." He says to Mingus as they get off the bus at the first stop and loads up with the boy's backpack.

"We're going to the aquarium." He tells him with a huge grin and Norman laughs low.

"That's right, I forgot." He pretends to apologize and strokes his hair letting his go with the rest of the kids.

"I think someone is regretting the trip." You prod him and he laughs.

"It's not that...it's just that I'm amazed at the energy they always have, no matter what, there's always something good."

"That's why they're kids." You smile giving him a touch of encouragement on the back and fall in line with the rest of the group.

The morning is long and intense, the kids have enjoyed themselves, the museum has been a bit boring for them, Norman likes art, in fact when he has some time he always likes to paint or go out to take some pictures, but he understands that maybe for some kids seeing so many paintings has been a bit dense, the aquarium was more exciting, even Norman had fun, there, being careful not to disturb the fish, he took out his camera and allowed himself to take some pictures, the children, his son, Mingus with Riley, the installations, even some animals that he found curious. He also took some pictures of you, without wanting to look creepy, but he found you so immersed watching the main tank, your curious smile, your eyes shining with intensity, the reflection of the water on your skin, he couldn't help it and had to shoot a couple of pictures, maybe he will show them to you later, or maybe not and keep them as a little secret for himself. He hasn't decided yet.

At the hotel, dinner has been a complete chaos, the children, tired from the whole trip, wanting to go to their beds, have become hyperactive and noisy, although you try to calm them down and put some order, the rest of the hotel restaurant does not seem very happy with all the commotion. Finally you can go to your rooms, drop your bags and rest from the day. Norman opens the door and lets the kids in first, there is shouting and cheering all around the room. You roll your eyes and walk in asking them to calm down.

"Oh, shit..." Norman hears you behind you and he peeks over your shoulder.

"Oh shit, what?" he asks and then sees it. "Oh shit..."

The room only has three beds, two singles for the kids and one family size possibly for the two adults, thinking you were the parents of the two kids or there were no more rooms left with single adult beds. You fidget nervously and Norman chews his lip several times.

"Hey, never mind, I'll sleep with Mingus in the small bed." He says to calm you down.

"What? No! Dad, you move too much, you'll knock me off the bed." He protests and Riley laughs.

"That's not true." Defends his father.

"It's okay, it doesn't matter, the bed is big enough for both of us." You shrug and Norman looks at you in surprise.

"Really?"

"Yeah, well, unless you're uncomfortable..."

"No, no, no, not at all." He shakes his head. "It's fine like that, yeah."

"Okay then Riley and I are going to shower first...is that okay with you guys?"

"Sure, no problem, I'll take advantage and go over some work stuff." Norman says pulling his laptop out of his suitcase.

Agreed on the shower time, you grab your stuff and your daughter's and both of you go into the bathroom so as not to keep your companions waiting, as you're sure Mingus is just as tired as Riley and will just want to go to sleep. Norman sits on the edge of the bed pulling his son's pajamas out of the suitcase and an old t-shirt along with some shorts for him.

"Dad..." Mingus' voice makes him look at him curiously, his heart flips at the sight of his exhausted eyes, but he still fights to stay awake. "Can I ask you a question?"

"Sure, champ, what's up?"

"Do you like Riley's mom?" he asks with complete sincerity and Norman feels himself lose the color from his face only to explode an intense heat in his cheeks.

"W-what?" he mumbles trying to search his mind for a good answer. "Who told you...?"

"Riley and I have been talking about how cool it would be if you and her mom were together...we'd be brothers." He comments again and Norman doesn't know where to jump in.

"Re-Really?" he swallows hard and is thankful that the noise of the shower is maybe muffling that conversation for you guys, mortified enough he feels already. "B-but that's not how it works, kiddo..."

"Why not, do you like any of your friends?"

Oh his friends... Norman has had girl-friends, not many, but like everyone else, sometimes he needs to have contact with other humans, adults, and he has had the odd date, he hasn't introduced Mingus to all of them, they have always been nice to him and Mingus has been curious, but it has never ended up being anything serious. Norman has never had this talk with him because he thought he was too young yet. He sighs scratching the stubble on his chin, thinking about what he can say to him.

"It's not about that, it's been a while since I've had those kind of friends, but you see..." He chews his lip again, searching for the right words. "Even if I liked Riley's mom, it doesn't mean we're going to be together."

"Why?"

"Because maybe she doesn't feel the same way." He shrugs.

"Why don't you ask her?" He looks at him confused and Norman purses his lips. Of course to a child everything is very logical and he understands, but we adults like to make things complicated.

"What if I asked her and she didn't feel the same way? Imagine if things got really weird and you and Riley would never talk to each other again."

"That's not going to happen. Riley is my best friend."

Mingus' crushing logic completely disarms him. He loves his son's honesty and sincerity. He smiles and hugs him warmly, kissing him on the cheek.

"Don't ever change, kiddo." He asks him, confusing the boy some more.

After everyone goes through the shower, the boys stay talking some more in their beds until sleep overcomes them and they fall completely asleep. Norman walks out onto the terrace of the room with his laptop and his box of cigarettes, he's been a good father, he's gone all day without smoking, he deserves a break. He sits down at the table outside, turns on the laptop and while it's charging, he smokes a cigarette, the smoke slowly coming out of his nose. His mind still spinning from the conversation with his son, he feels like he still has goosebumps from it.

"Aren't you going to sleep?" your voice startles him, lifting his head like a spring, you're in the door frame of the terrace, already in your pajamas, watching him.

"Not yet, I have to get some work stuff ready." He denies and takes another puff on his cigarette.

"Okay..." You look at him and walk out sitting in front of him.

"No need to stay, if you're tired go to bed, I'll come later." He assures you, feeling a little nervous.

"No, it's okay, I'll wait for you, the kids are completely asleep."

"Yes, it's been a long day for them." He nods and you both laugh.

The silence that forms between you is quiet and pleasant, you lean back against the table as Norman's fingers and eyes move fast focused on his work. It's not too much, a little editing work, he just has to download the documents and tomorrow he'll take care of it, he sends a draft of a presentation to his bosses and texts his partner to find out how the meeting went. When the documents are downloaded, he turns off the laptop.

"Okay, I'm done..." His voice drops when he discovers that you are asleep on the table. He smiles watching you, he knows it's nothing special, but he sees you beautiful at that moment. He reaches out and squeezes your arm gently. "Hey, wake up." He whispers. "Let's go to sleep."

"Okay..." You whisper, more asleep than awake.

The two of you walk noiselessly into the room, the kids not even flinching, totally submerged in Morpheus' arms, Norman rolls the bed around to his side, opens the sheets and pulls off his shirt, laying face up on the mattress. You curl up on your side, hugging the pillow, turning your back to him.

"Good night, Norman."

"Good night..." He replies, but he doesn't know if he'll be able to sleep, his heart beating so loudly he's afraid even you might hear it.

The trip is proving to be really interesting and Norman is glad he was able to get away from work.

The End.

Okay, I think I'm going to pass here, I'm making the story too long, sorry.

Hope you liked it!!

See you all in the next stories!!

Taglist: @green-eyedladywrites @minervadashwood @livingdeadblondequeen @bringinsexybackk69 @phoenixblack89

#my stuff #norman reedus #normanreedus #mine #ask me #one shot #fluff #father and kid stuff #norman reedus x reader #norman reedus x femreder #norman x reader #anon request #platonic love

105 notes · View notes

mirkwoodshewolf · 2 years ago

Text

Halloween Cinderella; Eddie Munson x reader

*Author’s note*

Okay so this was for a favor for a dear fav. blog of mine @sweetpeapod when she needed some help in clearing out some requests so to the requester who asked this of her during her last event, look no further than here. Now I made some changes to the request (just some small minor stuff to fit with the time period and all that) but other than that the only warnings are swearing, cheating, some minor angst but also some fluffy, comforting and a bit flirty Eddie. Hope you enjoy this my lovelies and to @sweetpeapod thanks for sending this fic my way, had a blast writing it and I’m happy to help anytime you want your inbox cleared of some work :)

Taglist:

@plethora-of-things

@waddles03

@psychosupernatural

@jd-johndeacon-or-jackdaniels

@queen-paladin

@gay-and-ready-to-cry

___________________________________________________________

*Halloween 1984*

I still don’t even understand why I even came here to begin with? All I wanted to do was stay at home, do candy duty and just wait for this day to be month to be over. Not to say that I don’t like Halloween cause I do, but the fact that my douche of a boyfriend dumped me just a week before we would go as our couple costumes of Kane and Ripley from Alien. That’s something I can’t look past, especially when he admitted to cheating on me with some slut from the swim team.

So my best friend/brother from another mother Ferris (who was dressed as Michael Myers) thought it would still be a good idea for us to go to the party just to rub Jefferson’s face in it. And believe me when I say that it is hard to say no to Ferris Worthington, the boy’s as stubborn as a mule and won’t take no for an answer.

And that’s where I am. Sitting in my car, parked right outside Heather’s place where the party was debating whether or not I should go in or just drive away and lock myself in isolation.

“Goddamn it Ferris. Why do I always let you talk me into these things seriously why?” I said talking to myself. “Because I was a jackass in a previous life. Now grow a pair and get your sexy Ripley butt in there!” I said knowing what he’d say if we had drove together. “I hate you so much, you better be in there and I swear there better be some serious booze if not a little buzz of the Mary Jane.” I said muttering to myself again as I got out of the car and locked it.

I walked up to Heather’s house and opened the door and already blaring music was playing, streamers were flying everywhere, and over a hundred people were already in the large mansion.

“Think I’ll also be needing some earplugs too and maybe whiskey instead of beer to drown this noise out.” I said adjusting my fake rifle further up my shoulder. I had been fabricating with my dad since the start of summer, he actually works on indie horror films so he’s gone some weapons and makeup sculpting skills.

As I walked through the crowd of seniors and even a couple of juniors that somehow managed to sneak in, I noticed a problem. Ferris said he’d be dressing up like Michael Myers from Halloween, well I’m barely at the living room and already I spotted three different Michael Myers masks.

“Brilliant move Ferris. Seems like every freaking guy in here had the same idea you did.” When I finally got to the living room, low and behold there were about seven, maybe 10 other Michael Myers at the party. I mean Jesus Christ there are other slasher killers you can choose from; Freddie Kruger, Psycho’s Norman Bates, Leatherface, Jason, any of those guys but nope everyone chose Michael Myers.

Again not that there’s anything wrong with it, Jamie Lee, perfect final girl material and an extreme badass next to Sigourney Weaver, but come on guys. Ferris could’ve at least given me something to distinguish himself from all the other Michael Myers’ at this party.

“Okay so first thing I’m gonna do is find that smug son of a bitch, then kick his ass for making me search for him, and then drink, drink, drink.” I said to myself before going in and walking to the first Michael Myers costume I saw. “Ferris?!” the person turned to me and motioned to them to take their mask off. They removed their mask and I saw it was one of the football players.

“Sorry.” He told me before putting his mask back on. Okay one down, nine to maybe a dozen or so to go. I moved through the crowd, keeping my plastic rifle close to me and walked up to the next Michael Myers I saw.

“Ferris is that you under there?!” the person lifted up their mask and it was some other random dude, probably from either another school or even a former graduate (by a year or two).

“You got the wrong guy, sweetheart. But if you stick around, I can make you forget about him.” He said as he eyed me up and down with a lustful look in his eyes.

“Yeah and I’d like to tell you a joke about my vagina but you’re never gonna get it.” I said walking away annoyed. One by one I asked each Michael Myers I saw to remove their mask, but all of them turned out to be a bust.

I was now by the drinks deciding to just get me some spiked punch and just accept the fact that either Ferris had ditched the party all together and lied to me, or the little shithead is hiding somewhere knowing I’d probably kill him for making me search for him.

I soon took notice of another person coming up as Michael Myers coming to get a glass of punch. I set my cup down and turned to the guy and told him.

“Need I ask if that’s you Ferris?” the guy soon turned his attention to me and removed his mask. Unlike the rest of the guys who had short hair underneath, this guy had long, shaggy brown hair. Deep brown deer like eyes, maybe even puppy brown. “Oh.” I said dejectedly returning to my drink.

“Just what every boy dreams of hearing from someone who's just seen your face for the first time.” He told me.

“I’m sorry. Really I didn’t mean anything by it, it’s just I’ve been searching for my friend for what feels like hours. He told me he came as Michael Myers and low and behold, almost every guy came in dressed like the guy.”

“I know. At first I was gonna come as Freddie Kruger, but then one of my little sheepies whose part of the drama department in charge of makeup fell sick and couldn’t come to work on my makeup.”

“No kidding, they were really gonna do that?”

“Yeah. Said his dad or uncle or whatever works with VFX makeup in Hollywood. Has his own shop and everything of all the face casts and costumes he’s sculpted. Would’ve been so metal but unfortunately I got stuck with Old Michael. No offense the dude is one badass mother fucker, but the mask just suffocates me.”

“That’s a shame. Cause that is a very lovely face, a really handsome face that I’d hate to see be suffocated and—” oh shit please tell me I did not just say that to some stranger. I slowly turned to him to see him pondering on what I just said with a smirk before he turned to me and asked.

“Lovely face? No wait scratch that, really handsome face?”

“Can I just the spiked punch made me say it?” I gulped defeatedly.

“You know what they say, drunken lips brings out sober thoughts.”

“That doesn’t even rhyme!”

“Who cares if it does?”

“I do!”

“What are you? The rhyming police?”

“Yes and I’m placing you under arrest for crimes against poor rhyming.” He laughed before saying.

“Whatever you say, Ellen Ripley.”

“You know you’re the first person to actually say who I am.”

“Uncultured swine’s!” he said exasperatedly as he gasped and placed his hand over his heart dramatically.

“Right!? Alien is a badass movie. If they ever think about making a second movie they better not fuck it up.”

“You never know.” He shrugged. “But if I may be inquired to ask your real name? Just so I can put a name to the girl who called my face handsome.”

“(Y/n). (Y/n) (l/n).”

“Munson. Eddie Munson.” We shook hands as I said.

“With an intro like that, surprised you didn’t come as James Bond.”

“Ehh, cool guy but boring films.”

“WHAT!?”

“Oh don’t tell me…..”

“Uncultured swine!” I exclaimed. Once again he shot his hand to his heart and threw himself backwards which made me laugh. “How could you think the Bond films are boring!?!”

“I’m sorry but they drag the plot too long and the humor is kinda stale.”

“Which Bond films have you seen?”

“What was that last Bond film that came out last year?”

“Oh Octopussy with Richard Moore? Okay I will give you that, that one wasn’t as good. But if you get to watch any of the Sean Connery ones, I swear you’ll think he’s the best Bond ever.”

“Okay, I’ll hold you to that.” A brief moment of silence came around us. It wasn’t uncomfortable or awkward but—comforting? “Hey, I don’t normally ask this but uhh…..do you wanna step outside? Party’s getting more crowded and all that. I was gonna offer that to you earlier when I saw how dejected you seemed earlier.”

“I’d actually like that. Promise not to murder me once we get outside Michael?” I teased his character’s name at the end.

“Oh sweetheart, if anyone’s gonna murder anyone it’s you who’d murder me Ripley. You took on a fucking alien with an extended alien tongue. Compared to that, I’m mere child’s play.” So Eddie and I walked out of the house and into the backyard.

Hardly any people were outside. Most of them having a quick smoke break or to get some air from the mass of bodies that occupied the house. As Eddie prepared himself a smoke, he offered me one and I thanked him and he offered up his lighter.

I took a deep inhale before exhaling the smoke as I felt the cigarette between my index and tall finger.

“So the guy you mentioned earlier, you said his name was Ferris?”

“Yeah, Ferris Worthington.”

“Hold on, Ferris Worthington?” he asked me as he turned to me.

“Yeah.”

“About yay-tall, short brown hair, always wears a sweater vest?”

“Yeah. Wait how do you know him?”

“You kidding me? Ferris the Cunning Paladin. Dude may dress like a nerd but he’s one smart son of a bitch in my campaigns. He told me he was gonna dress up as Jason from Friday the 13th and I’ve been looking for him everywhere. We were gonna try to battle it out in front of everyone. Find out just who would really win in a fight.”

Oh that little shit! I’ll kill him I swear!

“Really? Cause like I said before, he told me he was gonna dress up as Michael Myers. Seems we’ve been played.”

“It would seem so.” He said taking an inhale of his cigarette.

“I should’ve known. I’ve known that boy since we were in kindergarten and he always does shit like this. He knew I didn’t want to come to the party anymore and he still managed to somehow convince me only to stand me up just like my douche of an ex-boyfriend!” I ranted angrily and when I turned to see Eddie looking at me stunned I exhaled deeply and shook my head. “I’m sorry. You probably don’t wanna hear me rant, so I wouldn’t blame you if you left me to my misery.”

“I may be known as the ‘Freak of Hawkins High’, but being the King of the social outcasts does come with its priorities.”

“And what’s that?”

“Being a good listener. Since I’m not so stuck up in my head of my own vanity and pride, I can take time to truly listen to those who need to rant, scream or shout. Not like those who follow the force conformity of ignoring other people’s problems.”

“I don’t know Eddie—”

“I won’t pry, if you tell me to drop it, we’ll drop it. But—you do seem like you really need to rant, and it seems like Ferris didn’t really take your feelings seriously.”

“Lately he hasn’t.” I took another intake from my cigarette before exhaling the smoke out and stomping on the last bit of bud that was left. “My ex-boyfriend, cheated on me with some bimbo from the swim team. And he told me he had been cheating on me for five months while we were still together. Not only that but he dumped me for said bimbo through a note he put in my locker.”

“Jesus what a cowardly dick.” I laughed coldly.

“I wish there was a word to describe him. Couldn’t even work up the balls to break up with me face to face. Anyway, we had planned to come together to this party with me as Ripley and him as Kane. Even made a tiny alien baby to have pop out of his chest and everything.”

“That would’ve been so metal.” I nodded.

“I hated him so much. So much so that I felt like Halloween was ruined for me. I’ve actually wanted to do a couple’s costume ever since we went out. I planned, prepped and tried to come up with a cool costume duo that wasn’t gonna be predictable or standard.”

“I hear yah. I may not look it but I can respect a good costume couple, and already seeing you I would’ve like to have seen that.”

“Sorry to disappoint in not having the other half.”

“Not disappointed. You still look pretty badass. I mean your rifle alone looks awesome.”

“Just your basic nerf gun that I painted and redesigned a bit.”

“Metal.” He said impressed. “And seriously, I meant what I said when I called your ex a cowardly dick. He shouldn’t have done that to you.”

“I know I shouldn’t let it get to me this badly but—he was the first guy who really took interest in me. And not just because he wanted to have someone to fuck or please him. We did have a lot in common, but then it turns out he had to fuck some other girl behind my back just to keep what was between his legs satisfied. Sometimes I feel like something’s wrong with me.”

“Hey,” he came in front of me. His head tilted downward so he could try to look me in the eye. Eventually I looked up at him and he continued, “There is nothing, okay absolutely nothing wrong with you. The relationship failed because of him, not you. If he couldn’t see the beautiful woman that was standing right at his side, then it’s his loss.” I felt my cheeks heat up as I crossed my arms over my chest and said.

“Did you just—call me beautiful?”

“I’m not the only one with a good looking face.” He said with a small grin.

“Eddie, I appreciate the comment but…..if this is some attempt for you to be Prince Charming and swoop in on a girl who’s emotionally vulnerable, this isn’t the right way to go about it.”

“I know. I’m just giving a lovely girl a compliment. I don’t expect anything in return.”

“ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?!?” We turned around and speak of the devil there stood Ferris with his lifted up Jason Vorhees mask. “This was not how I pictured this going!!”

“Did you seriously think I would want another relationship so sudden after my last one?!” I snapped.

“If it gets you to stop mopping, yes! Plus you guys were really hitting it off! C’mon Eddie’s a good guy just kiss him already!” I shook my head at Ferris.

“Permission to beat the shit out of this little turd, my lady?” Eddie asked me.

“He’s all yours.” I said. Eddie put his mask back on and as quick as lightning, he charged at Ferris who let out a girlish scream and went running for the hills. I shook my head and decided to just head home knowing that all of this was just Ferris Worthington’s scheme to make me have another man just so I would stop my bitching and mopping.

Monday at school, I was opening my locker to get my trig book when a note fell out of my locker. I picked it up, unfolded it and read it.

Hey Ripley,

The party was fun, sorry about Ferris. He says he’s sorry for what he did. And don’t worry, even if he doesn’t mean it, I’ll make sure he pays for it at our next D&D campaign hehehe (devil face drawing).

Anyway, I meant what I said about both your ex being a douche and you being beautiful. Now I’m not trying to flirt or start an instant relationship but if you ever want to rant or punch someone, give me a call. Just know you’ve got someone on your side who will really listen to you, be your punching bag, or even a shoulder to cry on and won’t complain at all. Hope to see you around the school, or just reach me here.

XXX-XXX-XXXX

Eddie aka Michael Myers #9

He even drew little devil horns around his name. I smiled and folded the note and put it in my flannel pocket over my heart. I grabbed my book and headed off to my trig class with a slight pep in my step.

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aaronymous999 · 1 year ago

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The Ghostflowerbyte Headcanon Post

All of them identify as Bi! And they’re all transgender by the way, Margo and Gwen being transfem and Miles being transmasc!

All of them are also autistic, possibly ADHD for all of them too? But not too sure on that one!

Margo and Gwen initially did not get along, but eventually they became friends when they bonded over their shared difficult home lives, this was before Miles came to the Spider Society by the way. Gwen is a bit awkward when introducing two separate friend groups to each other ( she just like me fr ) which is why she actively tried not to mention Hobie, Pavtir and Margo to Miles, her anxiety makes her worry that they’ll hate each other and all her friends will blame her. ( she just like me fr. )

As for pronoun headcanons! Margo uses She/They/It/Byte/Glitch pronouns, Gwen uses She/They, and Miles just uses He/Him.

Margo actively does not want her partners to meet her parents because she hopes to move out as soon as she is old enough and has the money to do so. Gwen’s dad is pretty distant from all of her friends but gets close to Miles first, and it takes a little longer for Margo initially because of her own home life, she worries that Gwen’s dad isn’t truly reconciling and is kind of scared of him, but eventually the two connect. Although Miles and Margo both don’t get that close to him. Rio and Jefferson instantly fall in love with Margo, Rio is just like “Who does your hair? You’re so beautiful honey, you’re such a good influence on our boy make sure to watch out for him.” Margo is obviously very happy about this because, parental figures who actually like her!! Rio and Jeff take a while to warm up to Gwen though, although Rio does so sooner.

Margo and Gwen trade clothes a lot, although this is usually their pajamas since Gwen’s normal fashion sense is a lot more alternative while Margo tends to stick to a cuter style. I saw that scene of her trying out different hairstyles and I don’t know I just feel like she’d love comfy and cute clothing, like an off the shoulder top and jean shorts.

Miles has his art… Gwen has her music and… Margo has her fashion! Of course I like to think her main hobby is more technical stuff like programming but I think she’d desperately want to sew when she moves out. She didn’t have the need to before because well- she didn’t express herself much as Margo Kess and really only did so with her Spider-Byte avatar, which is an avatar afterall.

All three of them are smug and snarky but in different ways and sometimes they all kinda tease each other and it’s amazing. Margo and Gwen are also pretty sarcastic but Miles doesn’t do sarcasm well and thinks they’re serious HWJDBJEE although if Margo and Gwen heard anyone outside of their friendgroup being sarcastic they’d be like????

Margo, Gwen and Miles go on a double date with Pavitr and Gaytari and Hobie is there too but chills in the corner casually being aromantic and teasing the alloromantics is his passion. Valentine’s Day is a capitalistic scam and you all are falling for it!

Margo: I just started taking estrogen! Miles: That’s awesome my top surgery is next week! Gwen: Wow I can’t believe we’re all trans and in love! Hobie: Ay I just murdered Norman Osborn haha

Gwen and Miles are the only sporty ones out of the trio and Margo will never understand it ( she just like me fr )

Um um um those are the headcanons :3 let me know if any of them are culturally inaccurate? My mind is always open!

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a-tale-of-legends · 2 months ago

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Hi! I haven't read much of Pokespe, what did manga Norman do? I enjoyed your prof Oak roast so if you feel like making a similar post I'd be the thrilled to read it haha

Okay so I never read the rse pokespe stuff. Most of my knowledge is from word of mouth and reading the Bulbapedia page. Just from hearing about Manga Norman, I already got the gist that he was a terrible father who had physically abuse his own son throughout the story. That's just from what I've heard. But when reading the Bulbapedia page it's just. Like.

So we already got a disapproving Dad, resulting in Ruby running away to prove his dad that contests are superior. Which is all fine and dandy, but Ruby himself is actively hiding from his dad. He is trying to avoid him at all costs. And for good reason, because when Norman finds him, he does this shit:

PHYSICAL HURT HIS OWN SON FOR RUNNING AWAY. HELLO? H E L L O?! Calling him an insolent brat, berating him for "speaking to your father like that". And I think what's even more damning is that Ruby says " I don't care how furious you are with me, I'm ready for it!", like he's been preparing for this type of reaction. Suddenly Ruby avoiding his dad makes a shit ton of sense because YEAH. I WOULD TOO.

^ this is the context for the above. Norman was the one who started it. And even when Ruby was exhausted and defeated, after saving both of their lives, Norman still wants to continue the battle. Is his son's well being really not that important to you here? Is your ego that big? And I will once again acknowledge that I haven't read the manga myself, maybe I'm blowing things out of proportion. But this is insane right? Game Norman has his faults - and I will say I can see where Manga Norman gets this attitude from going off how Norman talks in the original rse games - but I don't think he would go so far as to physically assault his own child just bc said child ran away/ preferred contests.

Also it's just insane that the only reason Norman begrudgingly stopped was because someone else of power stepped in. Like what if Winona wasn't there. What would have happened. Who would have intervened in a dispute between a gym leader and his son. Insane, all of it.

Oh and yeah, they gave him a sad reason for him becoming distant. Which. Sure! I guess! Insane that Maxie and Archie fucking burn his corpse oh my god. But also. Is this suppose to excuse all the shit he did prior? If not then, good! We like complexity in this household. But it doesn't feel that way. It feels like they're trying to sweep the abuse under the rug with a " I just wanted to protect you" thing. As if Norman did not physically assault his own son before.

Again, I have not read the manga myself, but just from this alone Manga! Norman fucking sucks, and I think Game Norman ( specifically ORAS Norman) should kick his ass. If I got the wrong read on the guy and there's more to him, please tell me! And if you want to go off on the guy, also do that.

#r answers #pokespe #gym leader norman

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satrryeys4eva · 2 years ago

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hii I really love how you write for hunter and like incorporate other fandoms and stuff hehe it’s really cool 🙃💕 so I was just wondering like if you’re up to it, if you could write something about hunter with an avenger!reader maybe :P please and thank you and lots of love to you hehe

I am so sorry for being a year late to this, but I hope you like it

Hunter Sylvester and Harry Osborn's younger sister headcannons

- a/n

So some background info, Y/n Osborne is Harry's sister whose younger than him by a few years (harry was 20, and this takes place in the middle of TASM 2, AU where harry never got sent away he and peter are still best friends) he is super overprotective of her

Also for the sake of this, 'Metal Lords' takes in NYC

now on to the headcanons!

Let me just say this right off the bat, you both have mommy and daddy issues

clashing but similar aesthetics

Hunter with his heavy metal rockstar aesthetic

you with your more toned down but just as fun chaotic grunge aesthetic

Both of you kept your relationship a secret from your brother

after Norman died and Harry found out that he had the same illness and that it runs in the bloodline, Hunter was terrified that you might have it as well

you on the other hand were in a horrible mental state, Norman had been cold and distant but he was still your Dad

you were just recovering from his death and now you might lose your older brother too

While Harry was trying to find a cure you were mentally preparing yourself to say goodbye to him for the last time

the night after his diagnosis Harry came into your room to talk to you

He wanted there to be no more secrets between you two

You guys spent all night sharing secrets, he told you some embarrassing stories from college, and you finally told him about Hunter

he reacts a lot better than you expected, he asks you to bring Hunter around the next day so that he can meet him

Now Hunter has never really cared about the impression he left on most people (aside from you, Kevin, and his idols)

But he really tries because he knows how important Harry's approval is to you and he wants to make a good first impression

he subconsciously ends up emulating your style because he is so confused about what to wear, he doesn't think his usual band T-shirts and black cargo pants are not super appropriate for meeting your girlfriend's multi-billionaire brother

he settles on a pair of nice black pants, a slightly baggy band sweatshirt with a white collared shirt underneath

he also goes a little overbroad by wearing the two necklaces you gave him and only wearing your matching rings and the ones you gave him along with the earrings you gave him

Hunter was definitely not what Harry was expecting, he thought your boyfriend would be more like him or hell even Peter

but he eventually warms up to him when he sees just how happy he makes you, not before politely but not so subtlety threatening him

He even convinces Peter to play along and threaten Hunter

At the end of the whole ordeal, he approves

Now, saying that you spend time together would imply that you spend any time apart

You are each other's biggest supporters, always there at every event and function

most of the time is in little cafes, hidden record stores and tiny vintage bookstores are your everyday hangouts

you both go to midtown high, but only have 2 classes together

You guys are That Couple

you know, the couple that's always together

Kevin and Emily tease you all the time (like their any better)

If there was ever a villain attack, Hunter would throw himself in front of you like a human shield.

god forbid any paparazzi even try to harass you

Hunter would get into a fistfight right then and there

you guys are THE It couple of New York

but if Harry ever passed due to his illness, Hunter would constantly spend time (even more than he already does)

always comforting you 24/7

this always freaks him out even more as he thinks there a bigger chance that you also might have the same condition

and he really can't lose you

ever

he doesn't really bring it up the, because god knows that you need recovery time

he's at the funeral, holding you as you cry

you spend the next weeks staying with him

you don't think you can face that empty house now

not anymore

taging you just in case

@ii-larb-you

#hunter sylvester x reader #hunter sylvester #metal lords #metal lords x reader #hunter sylvester x you #hunter sylvester headcannons #harry osborn x reader #tasm harry osborn my beloved #harry osborn #platonic harry osborn

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only-in-december · 2 years ago

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Hello. It's been almost two years since I first posted about Christian Rock music, so I'm gonna go ahead and talk more about that. (Some of this will be basically the same, just with some updated information.) (@dp-marvel94 if you have any to add, I know you know some more than me.)

In case any of y'all didn't know, I am a Christian. I grew up in the church and still go regularly. (If you want specifics, I'm Non-Denominational.) Growing up, I listened to a lot of Christian Rock, because that's what my parents (especially my Dad) like.

Christian Rock is a fairly new thing. And honestly, it's only recently getting on par with a lot of the secular stuff. Mainly because back in the 60s-90s it was seen as "the Devil's music." But there were bands even back then that had really good (on par with the secular stuff of the day) music. Some examples include:

Resurrection Band/Rez Band/Rez. Some of the biggest pioneers of modern Christian metal and hard rock. They were a band in the 70s through the 90s. More blues rock than metal in my personal opinion, but still not bad. (They had two different music videos on MTV in the 80s. Which is a pretty big deal.)

Petra. I mentioned them in my first post, I grew up hearing some of their stuff, very 70s rock. Not bad if you like that kind of music.

Larry Norman. Another artist I mentioned in my first post. He was definitely one that called out a lot of Church culture for being not-so-Christlike. (Ex. "The Great American Novel.")

Those guys are just a few of the artists that really made modern Christian Rock possible. Without them, we wouldn't really have any others. I linked one song from each of them that I think really showcase their talent. (Excepting Larry Norman who got two linked songs.) The 90s is I think where Christian rock really started to meet up with Secular rock.

One Bad Pig, for example, is very 90s metal. Loud disruptive and very hard. (They got the name "One Bad Pig" after seeing the mascot for the St. Louis radio station KSHE95 which is a pig. Apparently upon seeing it, one of the band members said, "That is One Bad Pig!" And they liked that for a band name.) I will warn though, that they do scream and have a generally more...metal feel than some of the others.

There's also dc Talk. (Which you may recognise as the band that started TobyMac's career.) A mix of rap, and rock, they had a style that was really popular with the youths of the time. (Fun fact: the senior pastor at my church was a backup dancer for them in the "Nu Thang" era.)

#christian rock #christian music #resurrection band #petra #larry norman #one bad pig #dc talk

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tplambies · 2 years ago

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og honey i'm home lore/honey i'm home song lore from ghost

these two images read:

tw: the stuff that's in the video + suicide and unreality

so you got your local lad, norman minecraft,

no but anyways first i'll give a rundown of the story then go back and clarify some symbolism

this guy's father believes that the world is an awful place to be, and that ascending to the afterlife is basically the equivalent of waking up from a nightmare (ironically, dad was the nightmare of this family). under this logic, he "mercy"-kills his wife. owwie:(! growing up with this mindset, norman questions whether things are even real at all. like, maybe this world's some elaborate setup and in order to wake up you need to pass away. he gets into substance abuse to deal at first, but eventually decides it's time to "grow up" and pull the plug. after all, everything would be alright it he could escape to the supposed real world. that's when god and charon show up:

god confirms norman's suspicions, but clarifies that there's so much more to the situation than meets the eye. he advises norman to stay by his side though so he can show him the truth. charon offers norman an easy way out - just kissing him will poison him. because the father was essentially the heart of this reality god "eats" father as both a notion of ending the simulation and of taking his place, becoming norman's new caretaker. norman leaves everything behind, wanting to forget all about it

upon waking up, it's learned that in the real world norman had been used for public live dissections in front of large audiences of angels

as for symbolization:

father's a praying mantis due to a) "praying" mantis hahaha funny and b) a reference to how the girls will sometimes kill and eat their mates. i know that doesn't 100% line up correctly, but it's just a small reference i wanted to make

the moth is basically norman - "a tied up moth seemed to know a different way" is kinda like norman theorizing to himself that dying really might be the only way out. the moth also foreshadows what happens to norman, since the moth's stuck in a spiderweb and it's a personified spider who kills him in the end. then the moth reappears chained to god's hand, which at first is meant to seem like a sign of trust, like "yea dude ur in good hands!" but it's kinda obvious later on that it's really symbolizing being trapped by this guy. i specifically used a moth since they can symbolize blind faith, since they like, u kno, they see a light and go Oohh Lämp and fuckign die. the species of moth used (small emperor moth) was just an aesthetic choice cus oh those are just-some pretty boys!!!!

this more so has to do with out-of-song info. but charon's name came from the greek god who transports souls to the underworld. which is exactly what purpose he serves in this story

the three voices are specifically talking about norman, charon and god - the only real people who appear in this simulation ("[they] come all alone" is saying they're the only people who exited the simulation after its destruction). i will confess gramophones nave no significance, just needed something that rhymed and fit the flow of the melody

"vivisection" has two definitions - first one used in the song is that it can mean a harsh analysis, so "a vivisection of me yielded the start of a mystery" is kinda saying that he's self-analyzed a lot of things about himself and his life only for it to get more and more confusing/bewildering. the second and more popularly-used definition is that of a live dissection, used specifically with the connotation that this practice is unethical - in the last chorus, it's used literally. in Ye Olden Days, criminals were often punished via public dissections being done on their corpses and proper christian burials were refused as a disrespect the individual. this also paired alongside the belief that if a body isn't given a proper burial it inhibits the spirit of the deceased from moving on. so i wanted to sorta link those two concents to show that god was, on top of publicly humiliating the poor guy, further exerting his control over norman by refusing to let him pass away peacefully (probably as punishment for thinking he could take control back over his life)

calling the figure "god" is actually a symbolization in and of itself (same goes for the religious themes that follow) so don't worry the song isn't criticizing/against religion :) i grew up with religious parents, so i defaulted to using themes i'm most familiar with - i do wanna clarity i think that whether religion hurts or helps is entirely up to the individual. how it's taught to them and/or how they personally interpret it. so if it does good for you, great! if not, i totally understand! this song isn't a commentary on that topic though so yeyeyeye

the religious themes in the song are more so playing on the idea that, it someone sets up a simulation and essentially creates everyone thing within it, what makes them any different from a god? the bible verse used was also actually a happy accident - the song turned out to be 3 minutes 33 seconds long, and i was like "oh lol just for funsies i wonder what bible verse that is and funny enough it.... kinda fit the theme a little too well

the angels at the end are kinda like npcs, but as a group are just....... there, watching. there's a whole bunch of em and they're all watching

the title and use of the phrase "honey i'm home" is saying that norman's come home, basically. he's spent so long theorizing about and anticipating the day he'd get out of a fake world, idolizing this real world and a god he knew nothing about, only his new home isn't much prettier than the one he grew up in.

so yea like i guess tl;dr honey i'm home is about a local lad who is led to believe he's being saved by god, only to realize it's just some fuck with a control complex running a simulation

ooh edgy

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yourmommygay · 2 years ago

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Imagine being norman reedus' daughter and being the same age as chandler.

"Hey chandler" Alex reedus said walking up to her best friend. "Hey Alex" chandler said replying to his best friend, "what's up?" Alex replies with "did you forget what today is?" She asks getting kind of sad.

"why? What's today?" Chandler asks oblivious. "Happy birthday Alex" Danai said walking past Alex smiled at her. "Oh it's your birthday I completely forgot with all the work and stuff I'm so sorry" chandler said pulling Alex into a hug. "It's fine just remember it next time" Alex said chuckling. "Happy birthday Alex" chandler's dad said to her as he passed her a card and a present "oh my god, my dad remembered it but not me" all 3 of them laughed

The end.

Hope this was good let me know what you think.

It's not my birthday but I just wanted to try somet

#the walking dead #carl grimes #chandler riggs #birthday

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charlieslowartsies · 2 years ago

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i know you like both fnaf and batim, im curious if youve every thought about what would happen in a protagonist swap. ik aus and hypotheticals arent for everything, but i personally think it would be funny to drop mike and henry in eachothers universes. i think theyre both do well tbh, but regardless its a little funny to think about

I've tried answering this 2x and tumblr kept punting it into orbit but akjasjkasj here we go.

The Short answer: This is a cute idea! I did play with an Xover concept where Mike Schmidt from the KGA wandered into the old Studio he found back in the woods, and he eventually met Make Believe's Henry Stein post the first fic. Mike--being himself, ofc--decided to stick around and help in any way he could. He also got laid. That's a different concept than a good old switcheroo ofc.

There's more on that here, but not a big discussion on stuff, just what if arts from years ago.

The Long Answer:

At the end of the day, I know I kinda write Mike Schmidt and Henry Stein as different flavors of the same drink. Or even just, Mike is cherry cola and Henry Stein is a warm cup of coffee with cream and sugar.

They both have a found family thing going on in their central story arcs. Can you tell I like that theme? (With the major difference being Mike more or less consented to being dragged into the Pizzeria's past, and Henry stays in his situation out of deep seated guilt at his coworkers, a sense of obligation toward Bendy, and perhaps some honest fear of returning to the outside world as well after his time in the War.) Obviously Mike wasn't super cool with giving up his life, sure--but what he gained in return, (His health restored, ghostly superpowers, enhanced senses, a family that loves and accepts him as much as he admires them in turn, and a sense of purpose that makes him feel like he's living a life that makes a difference) made his choice the easier of the two I think.

In the KGA, Mike is top dog because he's the Suit of Fredbear, and then ofc he bonds with the gang from there. In MB, Henry is the true reluctant leader, and any say he has is earned when and because Norman and the others choose to give it. Sammy proves that for sure. Yes, there's a lot of fear of Bendy from Allison, Tom and Sammy, but they don't fear Henry. Henry also doesn't use Bendy's wrath and power to get his way--not that Mike is a bully either, but he's more confident than Henry and more adept at using Fredbear's powers to help him out, even just day to day mundane tasks.

Mike is the brainier of the two, but he's also the stupider when it comes to protecting those he loves. Henry is the draftsman, the studier, the thinker. He makes far more calculated moves and relies instinctively on Norm and the others to be there, or straight up defers to their judgement more than he dishes out orders. I headcanon he was a medic in the army, and if Freddy Fazbear is based off my Grandpa, then Henry Stein is based off my Poppy, who served World War II, and told stories to my dad of cleaning out tanks that...came back with bodies in them. Henry's time in the war changed him, and when he returned and entered the studio to see what his old pal wanted, his life was flung right back into what is, to him, another war zone. That's got to mess a person up, yanno?

What I like about your concept is that the first time I read it, I went "gee, there wouldn't be any difference. I'm just writing the same story with same characters, that sucks. ...how do I admit that in this ask that?"

And then later that night I paused and thought better of my initial assumptions. 'Wait a second...Mike and Henry aren't carbon copies. They don't even have the same humor.'

Henry and Mike are so much alike for sure, and so very different. Even just the obvious aside--Mike's world is full of the supernatural! ...but it's also got one foot firmly planted in reality. Fredbear is not flaunted. Mike can come and go as he pleases. He tries to be normal, he and the gang hide their true natures and pretend well for kids and adults alike. The world goes on around them, but they do go with it. The Gang ages. They had their restaurant, and then they do traveling parties when it becomes only a home base. His Animatronics are 'real' and 'functional' and their history--horrible as it was--was also one with kids and laughter and fun. Henry didn't get any of that. He never saw BendyLand, he didn't encourage Joey's actions.

Henry's world is Nothing but Supernatural, and he's still just as trapped in it as Bendy is bound to the End Reel. He can't go the store, grab some eggs and milk. If thunder rumbles overhead, Mike groans, looks for something to ground himself on. Henry might jerk back to war time, or the Studio, and be scrambled by the appearance of weather, which was not in the Loop. No sun, no night sky. There's a lot of humanity in being around other people. Mike is such a people person, and he sees in the Fazes what is only there because they were haunted. (Otherwise, yeah, they're kinda just...mechanical AIs.) Henry knows these people he lives with on the first floor were human once, he's relieved to have their company and also feels terrible about. He's afraid to let them get close, (the Projectionist being the one to ignore this lmao.)

It's two types of tragedies, and in both lives were cut short in different ways. Mike and Henry feel responsible for both sides, but they don't respond the same.

It's a lot of weight to carry on one's shoulders, and I sort of think Mike carries it better, or a little healthier, at least. He isn't shy or hesitant, Freddy pushed him away the most and Mike pushed right back. He didn't take any abuse, but he got past those walls and taught Fredbear it was okay to trust and to talk about problems.

Dropping Mike into MB's world would, naturally, be chaos. Mike is kind of walking chaos. Marion would prolly follow him--Mari follows the night guard everywhere, because as much as he brags about how good Mike is at his role, he worries so hard over Mike because Mike is always getting into trouble. (Which, fair.) Mari also doesn't like following rules, unless they're rules he set. He doesn't play nicely with others and he would quickly try to work his tendrils into the Studio, try to gain some upperhand, some semblance of control or even just find Answers to the puzzles around them. Mike would be utterly fascinated with the Ink Machine, wanting to see how it worked, and why, and if it needed repairs, and be interested in taking it apart to figure it out. Goldy's status would be useless here, so even tho Mike has his wits and strength, he wouldn't have the same level of respect he is used to in the restaurant or warehouse, or even Pizza World and not the Pizza plex.

Mike's also magnetic as hell. He'd take one look at Norm and be up in his grill too, delighted and friendly and finding the terror cool. He'd fix anything he thought needed it, that includes busted light bulbs or unhappy, self conscious little ink blots that need their ego's stroked and to be assured no, they're not Abominations. Mike isn't afraid of Nightmaronnie, and once he realizes the Ink Demon is Bendy, (if he was split from Henry which would be it's own issues.) he'd eventually apply the same logic as he did to the Puppet all those years ago, and see a scared little kid who needs some comfort and to know he has support.

Henry...would fit in less well in the KGA. He wouldn't be in danger from the Fazes of course, but he's an Adult, and he's a Male, and he's a STRANGER. And that sets off all sorts of warnings in the back of their minds. Makes them unsure and wary to the point of being unkind, cold. Unlike Mike, whose curiosity gets him in trouble, Henry would recognize to back off and tread lightly. Their children that haunted them accidentally passed on a deep seated fear of older, male authority figures, and not even Mike blames them for that. Max carries it too, and Gregory is about the only one who would be the most approachable...or the more willing TO approach Henry. He's young, but his situation is different and kids are rubber bands. By now, the best, most important thing in his world--tall, deep voiced, and strong Glamrock Freddy--keeps his opinion in Henry's favor, because they're both calm and careful in the similar ways. If Bendy is with Henry, that's another winner. Bendy loves kids, he loves kids desperately, enthusiastically, obsessively. He WANTS to prove he's worthy of what Joey Drew put on him when he was Created, that he's the most darling dancing devil there ever was. If Cartoon him can make Gregory smile/laugh, Bendy will be over the moon, and Glamrock Freddy will have to learn to share quickly, because like Mari, Bendy is a possessive little devil.

Even if Max, Ness, and Freddy are keeping Henry on a tight, wary leash, I can see Henry giving in to them easily. He's not out to make waves, or step on anyone's toes. Being docile like that will help him out big time with them. Mike might cause trouble on accident lmao. Henry would also be kind of panicky, kind of freaked out. Worrying about the Studio, his friends, Bendy being loose, what Joey's up to on the lower levels. Mike would honestly be more worried about his next meal being just bacon soup and realizing he can't be a bottomless pit because he won't take food from these...ink...monsters? ...ink people? (If Chica offered Henry an olive branch in the form of a meal, Henry might break down and Ghibli cry at the taste of real, inkless, clean food. That earns him points with her at least. Double if he tries cleaning up because he never let Linda do the dishes.)

I wrote so much I'm so sorry lmao. Thank you for this ask anon!! It's a fun concept to explore! I wish I had more energy to do so, but I just got a new tattoo last night and my brain is french fried xD

#ask #batim #kga #make believe #fnaf #answered

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anglophiletraveler · 2 years ago

Text

In My Life, Chapter 21

It Must Be Christmas

By Chris Young

******

So we’ve come to the end of our Christmas Day, and it’s a Christmas Day for the Poldarks family like for most families. As much as we try to make everything perfect like a Norman Rockwell painting, most holidays are never perfect, but the most important part is that we are with people that we love. Thanks again to me friend Karen Bockius for helping me through another chapter!!

*******

Ross had changed into his new jumper Demelza had given him for Christmas and had joined her in the kitchen to help out with preparations. He was watching Demelza flit around the kitchen like a whirling dervish and noticed that her hands were shaking. He walked over and took her hands.

“Demelza, what’s wrong? Why are you shaking?”

“Let go Ross, I need to finish what I’m doing before your parents show up.”

Ross looked around, the table had been set for the meal, now she was running around dishing up food and doing this and that. “Demelza, what else needs to be done? What can I do to help? Hey, stop, stop. Look at me, Dem.”

Demelza finally stopped and let out a big sigh, “What?? I have stuff to get done before your mum and dad get here!”

“ Darlin, why are you so nervous? Are you nervous about being with my mum and da? You’ve been around them a couple times already. What’s the big deal?”

“The big deal is because it’s Christmas and I’m cooking this huge dinner for them!! I want everythin to be perfect!”

“Sweetheart, everything is going to be just fine. You’re an amazing cook, and they’ll love it. Tell me what else needs to be done and I’ll do it while you go upstairs and change and calm yourself down.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes! You know I can cook and fill platters and whatever else you’re doing here.” He gave her a reassuring hug and kiss. Demelza finally gave up and told him what else needed to be done, and then went upstairs to change before everyone started to arrive.

**********

Ross had set out the meat and cheese trays and crackers and veggies and dip, and was now in the process of plating the sausage rolls and the maple-sriracha Devils on Horsebacks, tasting one for good measure of course! Seamus was sitting next to him hoping to catch whatever may drop on the floor. The doorbell rang and Ross yelled for whoever it was to come in. He heard Drake and Michael come in the front door. “Hi guys, c’mon in! Happy Christmas!” He walked over to shake hands with the lads.

“Well, everythin smells delicious! Where’s sister?” Drake asked.

“She’s upstairs getting changed.” He started whispering to Drake “She’s been a bit nervous this morning about the cooking and all, so I told her that I could finish up while she went upstairs to get changed. So hopefully she’s more relaxed when she comes back down.”

“Demelza nervous? About cooking? Well what can Michael and I do?” Drake asked.

“Can you take these out to sit on the tables in the living room, and make sure Seamus doesn’t get his nose into any of it, and I’ll bring out the prawns and cocktail sauce.”

Drake and Michael took everything else out to the living room. “Prawns! That’s fancy. Is there going to be any room leftover for dinner? Drake, you didn’t tell me this was going to be fancy.” Michael asked.

“It usually isn’t fancy. I don’t think she’s ever fixed prawns before. I suspect she’s nervous about Ross’s parents comin.”

Ross walked in with the prawns. “Right, everything looks perfect to me, don’t you think? Do you lads want something to drink?”

“Nah I’m good mate.” Michael replied.

The doorbell rang again, so Ross went to open it, greeting his parents. “Mum, da, Happy Christmas! C’mon in! Let me take your coats.”

“Thank you dear. Oh my everything looks delicious. Demelza didn’t have to go to all this bother for us.”

“Well, help yourself. Demelza should be down shortly. Would you like anything to drink?”

“I’ll just have some water for now, thank you.” Joshua said.

“Same for me, sweetheart. Do you need any help?” Grace answered.

“No, no, everything is taken care of, just sit down, relax and help yourself.”

Ross was getting some bottles of water for everyone when Demelza came downstairs. She had straightened her hair and put a dash of makeup on. She had decided to wear her green jumper with the v-neckline so that she could wear her new snowflake necklace that Ross had just given her. “Hello everyone! How is everybody?”

Grace got up to greet her and give her a hug. “Demelza, you look beautiful. I love your hair straightened like that! Very chic! And all of this food! You shouldn’t have gone to so much trouble.”

“Thank you Grace. You look lovely as well. Well, I know Drake and Ross have hollow legs so I wanted to make sure there was enough food for everyone!”

“Oi! Sister I’m right here ya know, and I’ll have you know tha I don’t eat nearly as much as Michael here does!”

Demelza stuck her tongue out at her brother, which made Grace laugh at the two siblings. Ross came out with bottles of water for everyone, and sat on the floor close to where Demelza sat on the couch.

“I love your snowflake necklace, Demelza. It’s very pretty.”

“Oh thank you Grace. Ross gave it to me this morning. I love it! I guess it’s no secret that I love snow.”

Joshua spoke up. “Demelza, that was such a beautiful service last night. Ross said that you’ve performed at that church before?”

“Aye. I think I’ve been there four or five years now. It’s wonderful to get asked back to play with my friends. They give us free rein with the music we play so that’s nice to be able to change it up a bit.”

“Ross, that’s a lovely jumper. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you wear something like that before. I love the colour.”

“This was one of my Christmas gifts from Demelza. Oh let me show what else she surprised me with.” Ross got up and went for the Star Wars poster. “Look at this! It’s autographed by Mark Hamill! Isn’t this great!” Ross was beaming.

“Bloody hell!” Michael screamed. “Would ya look at that! Well Ross, if you don’t have a place for it, I can take it off your hands!” Everyone was laughing at Michael’s statement.

“Uh no thanks mate. I don’t think I’ll have an issue finding a place for it.”

“Where are you going to put it Ross?” Demelza wondered out loud. She wasn’t sure until now where he would want to hang the huge poster. She didn’t even think about that part.

“Hmmm maybe above our bed?” He had a cheeky grin on his face.

“I don’t think so. How about yer office?”

Joshua had to join in, “Oh Demelza, I think that would be lovely hanging above the head of your bed.”

Demelza didn’t know what to say. She wasn’t sure if Joshua was pulling her leg or if he was serious, so she just sat there and smiled and nodded. Then they chuckled at the expression on her face.

Grace stepped in, “Oh Joshua quit teasing the poor girl. Ross, maybe you could hang it in your home office if you don’t want to take it into work.”

Ross gave Demelza a reassuring smile. “That’s probably what I’ll do, luv. Dinner won’t be ready for a couple of hours. Should we open gifts now while we wait?” Ross asked their guests. Ross passed out the gifts so that everyone had their own stash to open when it was their turn to open their gifts.

*********

The atmosphere was one of love, gratitude and cosiness as everyone enjoyed each other’s company and easy conversation. The room was glowing from the lights on the tree, and various candles scattered around the room. Ross had found a Christmas music channel on the tele to play softly in the background. Demelza was touched by Ross’s parents giving her snowflake earrings that match the necklace that Ross had given her earlier. Drake and Michael were in their own world after learning that Joshua was going to be an investor in his dry cleaning business so that he can get a loan to buy it from his boss. They were thinking of ways to expand the business slowly, and who knows, maybe open another store at a different location.

*******

Ross and Joshua had their heads together going over one of the family photo albums, Joshua pointing out relatives that Ross wasn’t aware of.

Ross took a moment to glance up at his mum admiring the painting that he’d given them of Claude and himself, and dad looking through a photo album. He was thinking back to when he opened their gifts earlier … “Oh look, a box! What on earth could this be?” He gave his parents a questioning look. He finally cut through all of the duct tape holding the box together. Ross pulled out four photo albums. He opened a couple of the albums and recognized the pictures. They were full of family photos. Not just his immediate family, but of the Trenwith Poldarks, and then his Poldark grandparents and great-grandparents, the Vennor grandparents and great-grandparents. Then he found an album that was full of pictures that had Claude Anthony in them. Ross started tearing up and looked up at his parents. “My God mom and da, where did all of these pictures come from? Are these copies or originals?” He was obviously touched. Joshua could tell that Grace was speechless, he cleared his throat, “Most are copies, but some are originals. We just thought that it was time that you become the keeper of the family history. The family Bibles should also be at the bottom of the box, along with copies of both family trees.”

The more he thought about the way his parents had been acting, the family trees, the photo albums, and especially his father acting more sentimental than he’s ever seen him act, the more he thought that something was definitely going on - something that they weren’t telling him. And that really scared him.

******

Demelza quietly left the room and stepped into the kitchen. She was smiling and thinking of the moment when Joshua told Drake that he would invest in the dry cleaning business. “Sir! I would love that if you’re sure ye would have a mind to do so. And I promise that I’ll work hard every day, and I won’t waste a penny of yer money, you can be sure of that, sir.” “No more turkey TV dinners for Christmas.” Demelza said aloud.

“Penny for your thoughts?” Demelza jumped at Grace’s voice. “Oh I’m sorry, love. Didn’t mean to scare you. You seemed deep in thought. Everything alright?”

“Oh, I was just thinking about how wonderful the day has been. Hopefully the turkey will be done soon. This is my first time cooking a whole turkey.”

“Those earrings look lovely on you. I hope you like them. A little elf told us that you were getting a snowflake necklace and showed us a pair of matching earrings.”

“Oh thank you again. I do love them.”

“Did you just say something about turkey TV dinners?” Grace asked.

“Oh um, yeah, I was just thinking back to Christmases past. And now that Drake is going to be set with his business, thanks to you and Joshua, he won’t ever have to eat turkey TV dinners on Christmas Day. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to get emotional.”

Grace put her arms around Demelza and gave her a motherly hug. It was a feeling that Demelza hadn’t felt for a very long time. “Your family didn’t have turkey for Christmas?”

Demelza took a step back, “I think we may have once or twice before mum died, but after that we were lucky if we could afford a turkey breast. Most of the time it was turkey TV dinners. And the last couple years at the flat Henry has done the cooking. Sooo… “

“Soooo don’t worry about the bloody turkey, Demelza! I’ve overcooked plenty of turkeys in my time! Especially when Joshua and I were first married. I just always made sure that there was plenty of gravy to drown it in!!.”

Demelza was practically gobsmacked! “Really? You, overcooked turkey? I don’t believe it.”

“Of course I have! Every woman has! Don’t put so much pressure on yourself. Nobody is perfect. Now let’s see what temperature is that turkey?”

********

In the living room, Drake and Michael were playing video games, and Seamus was sitting on the sofa next to Joshua, telling him about all of his problems of a dog’s life, while there was a kerfuffle in the kitchen between Grace and Ross over brussel sprouts. Ross was doing his best to carve the turkey but Grace wasn’t having any of his explanation. Demelza was getting a kick out of watching Ross getting in trouble from his mum.

“Honestly Ross! I can’t believe I’ve made brussel sprouts for you every Christmas, and you don’t even like them!” Grace rapped Ross on the back of the head with a wooden spoon. Demelza was giggling at the scene.

“Ouch mum! That hurt!” Ross was rubbing the back of his head.

“Good! Why didn’t you ever tell me that you didn’t like them?”

“I have! I did! After a while I just gave up so I didn’t hurt your feelings. Now can I finish carving this bloody turkey!”

Grace and Demelza just laughed at him as they finished plating the side dishes and setting them on the table. Joshua came in to see what all the commotion was about and gave Grace a big hug and kiss. Ross stopped at the site of his parents. Demelza looked at Ross to see his reaction.

Ross stabbed the turkey with the knife, “Oi! What the hell is going on with you two!”

Joshua and Grace just stared at Ross.

“You two have been acting very strange lately, and I want to know what is going on.” Ross demanded.

“Ross. What is wrong with me giving your mother a hug and a kiss?”

“Because you never do that, so that makes me think that something is going on. Something that you’re not telling me.”

Demelza decided to try to step in and calm Ross down. She was rubbing his arm, “Ross, love. I think it’s sweet. I hope we’re like that someday.”

He looked Demelza in the eyes and then looked back at his parents and shook his head and turned around to plate the turkey. “Right. Let’s eat.”

“Ross…” Demelza reached out to Ross.

“It’s fine Dem, let’s just finish getting the food on the table and eat.” He smiled at her and kissed her on the cheek.

“It was Claude.” Joshua said out of nowhere.

Grace gave her husband a strange look, “What was Claude?”

“It was Claude that liked brussel sprouts.” Joshua answered.

Ross dropped the fork in his hand.

*******

Roasted potatoes and carrots, peas, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy and Yorkshire pudding were all on the table and Ross was filling glasses with whatever everyone wanted to drink. Pretty soon everyone was standing around the table as Ross brought the platter of turkey over to their applause! “Dad, would you like to say grace?”

Joshua smiled at his son, “Certainly. Would everyone like to hold hands.” He looked around and smiled at everyone at the table. “Gracious Father. We thank you for this past year and the blessings we have received. Thank you for the wonderful meal that we are about to partake in and bless the hands that made it. We know this day isn’t about the gifts under the tree, but the gifts around this table. New friends, new loves, new family. I personally thank you for this beautiful woman to my right and for the joy and love that she has brought to my life and our family. Thank you also for bringing Demelza into Ross’s life, bringing light and love to his heart and mind. And with Demelza we now have Drake and his friend Michael in our lives and the eagerness that they bring us is more than welcome. We also think about our loved ones who are not at this table, but are in our hearts and minds. We ask only for peace, love and good health in the coming New Year. In your name we say Amen.”

“Oh Josh that was beautiful. Thank you for that.”

“Yes da, thank you. That was lovely.” Ross turned and looked at Demelza and saw a few tears in her eyes so he reached over and hugged her and kissed her hair. He noticed that Drake and Michael seemed choked up as well.

Everyone pulled on their Christmas crackers and placed their paper crowns on their heads. Demelza cleared her throat and spoke up, “Well lets eat before everything gets cold!”

*******

Everyone was chattering away while enjoying the meal. Drake and Michael were teasing Ross about the Star Wars boxers that Demelza gave him for Christmas. “I really think you should model them for us Ross!” Drake was egging him on.

“Not a bloody chance in hell mate! Now what about you Drake, when are you going shopping for new clothes?” Ross raised his eyebrow at Drake.

“Oh I’ll get around to it soon enough. Sister, did you make cranberry jellies by any chance?”

“Oh yes, I did. I’ll go get them out of the fridge.” Demelza jumped up to get the jellies out of the fridge.

Grace looked at Ross confused. “Cranberry jellies?”

“Apparently, they had it at Christmas when they were growing up,” Ross explained.

Drake added, “Ais, we couldn’t afford real cranberry sauce, so our mum made cranberry jellies as kind of a dessert for us. If we were lucky she had that spray cream on it. I know it sounds silly, but it was a treat for us.”

Grace smiled at Drake, “I understand.”

Demelza came back with the tray of cranberry jellies in small bowls with spray cream on top, and handed them out to everyone. Demelza smiled at the reaction on Drake’s face when he dove into his jellie.

“Well, Demelza you’ll certainly be warm this winter with your new coat, scarf, gloves and boots,” Joshua said.

“Well the plan is to take Demelza to Switzerland for a long weekend. I had thought we could go over New Year’s but I haven’t made any reservations yet, so we may go later,” Ross said.

“Oh.” Grace said suddenly. “I was hoping the two of you could come to Nampara for New Year’s… it’s been so long since you’ve been home Ross.”

Ross and Demelza looked at each other. Demelza wanted to please her possible future mother-in-law, so she quickly accepted the offer. She turned to Grace, “That would be lovely Grace. Thank you for inviting us. Can we bring Seamus?” Ross noticed Demelza looking pensive after the decision was made. He wondered if she was worried of the possibility of running into her father somewhere in the area. He remembered that she had told them a while back that she hadn’t gone back to Cornwall for years because she didn’t feel she had anything to go back for. He chanced a look at Drake and saw him give Demelza a half smile - half worried look. Yes, that was it. He’d have to make sure that Demelza knew that he understood and he wouldn’t let her out of his sight. He would have to let his parents know as well so they understood the situation. Ross heard his mum chatting and he shook his head of the thoughts for now.

Grace was relieved and smiled at Demelza, “Oh Seamus is a repeat visitor at Nampara isn’t he Ross. We’ve always loved it when Ross brings him down with him.”

“Um yeah, Seamus loves it down there,” Ross answered.

Grace continued, “Oh and Demelza, I believe your friend Caroline will still be in Cornwall at that time. I’ve heard talk of them hosting a New Year’s Eve party. Maybe you and Ross could go to that?”

“Oh really? I hadn’t heard that yet. We’ve both been busy and haven’t had time to actually chat except for an occasional text. I’ll make a point of calling her tomorrow. Do you have plans tomorrow for Boxing Day?” Demelza asked.

Grace looked at Joshua as he spoke up, “No, I think we might just head home. Take our time driving, maybe make a few stops along the way.” Joshua smiled at Grace and held her hand.

Ross caught this moment between his parents. He set his cutlery down on his plate, trying not to drop it. He covered his mouth with one of his hands and felt a lump in his throat. He felt nauseous, as if he was about to lose his dinner, so he excused himself from the table and went upstairs to the bedroom trying not to look like he was in a hurry. As soon as he reached the en suite, he vomited into the toilet. He felt horrible, hoping Demelza didn’t know what he was doing. The last thing he wanted was for her to think that he hadn’t enjoyed her Christmas dinner. He knew it must be his nerves. Thinking of all of the little smiles and touches between his parents, his father doting on his mother, things that Joshua never does, combined with his mum, looking pale, not acting well, and almost passing out yesterday, was starting to make him wonder if his mum was sick. That’s the only thing that made sense to him. He thought back to the Christmas gift his parents gave him, all of the photo albums, family Bibles, and then with his mum wanting them to spend New Year's at Nampara… that must be when they want to talk to him about it. “Good God,” Ross said aloud.

“Ross, are you alright?” Demelza had come up to check on him.

Ross jumped when he heard her voice, “Yes, love, I’m fine. I just had a small bone or something caught in my throat and had to get it out.”

“A bone? A turkey bone? Ross, that doesn’t make sense. You’re the one that carved the turkey. Did it taste bad to you?”

“No! I promise you everything is delicious.” He put a hand to her shoulder and was rubbing it. “Honestly, I think I might be coming down with a bug or something, and I didn’t want to make a scene in front of everyone downstairs. I just needed some air and splash some water on my face. I’m fine.” He leaned down and kissed her on the forehead.

“Are you sure?” She placed her hand on his forehead to see if he was warm. “Well, you do feel a little warm. Maybe you should have a lay down.?”

“No, no, I’m fine now. I feel much better. Let’s just go back downstairs.”

“Well if you’re sure?” She had a concerned look on her face.

“I’m sure.” He pulled her in for a hug. The thought of possibly losing his mother caused him to shiver. “I love you so much Demelza. I don’t know what I would do if I ever lost you.”

“Well good thing you’ll never have to find out. I love you too Ross.”

***********

When Ross and Demelza came back downstairs, they found Drake and Michael horsing around while doing the dishes, Grace clearing the table, and Joshua playing with Seamus outside.

“Mum here, give me those dishes, you go have a lie down and rest. Demelza and I will take care of these things.”

“Oh shush, I don’t need a lie down for goodness sake!”

“Well, just go sit down. We’ll take care of all this. Won’t we Dem.”

“Ais Grace, you and Ross go on and sit down and have some nice mother son time, hmmm? Between the boys and I, we’ll get this all taken care of in a jiffy,” Demelza offered.

“Well, that’s not very fair for you to do all the cooking, and me not help clean up. Before you know it, people will be calling me lazy bones!” Grace said.

Ross put his arms around his mum. “You deserve to be lazy after taking care of me and dad and half of Cornwall all these years. Now if you don’t go into the living room on your own, I’m going to pick you up and carry you in there myself!”

“You wouldn’t dare!” Ross started to pick Grace up in his arms, “alright, alright I’ll go on my own. Bloody hell!” Ross gave his mum a cheeky smile and an arm for her to take. Drake and Michael were laughing at Ross as he took his mum into the living room.

Demelza turned around to look at the plates of food. “Now, we need to fix you boys up with some leftovers to take home with ya.”

Michael gave her a smile, “I’m not going to fight you on that. Just make sure that you put in plenty of gravy. That was the best gravy that I’ve ever had.”

“Well, I won’t tell your mum you said that,” Demelza said.

“Oh no worries on that. I haven’t seen her in years….” Michael stopped talking and looked up at Drake.

Demelza looked at the two of them and got a strange vibe. “Oh gosh, I’m so sorry Michael. Uh just take whatever you want. You’re more than welcome.”

“Sister, why don’t you go sit and relax with Ross and his mum. We’ll finish up in here.”

“Okay. Thanks brother!” Demelza pinched Drake’s cheek in fun and left the kitchen and Drake rolled his eyes at Michael “That was close.”

“Yeah you’re right. Why don’t we bugger outta here soon?”

“Okay, but let’s finish cleaning up first. I don’t want to leave her with a mess to clean up.”

********

Demelza joined Ross on the sofa while he was chatting with his mum.

“Mum, what is going on? I can tell something is up, so why don’t you just tell me.”

“Ross, why do you think something is going on?”

“Well, for one thing, dad has been acting strange. He’s never been one to hold your hand or kiss you in front of people. And he’s certainly been a lot nicer to me than he has been in years. And what’s with all of that with the photo albums and stuff?”

Joshua walked in just then. “Ross, you sound a bit bonkers. Stop questioning your mother for bloody sake and leave her alone.”

Ross looked at his father, “I will when you tell me what’s going on…”

Demelza had been watching Grace and could tell that she was tense and didn’t look well. She didn’t know Ross’s parents that well, but it did seem like they were hiding something but weren’t ready to talk about it just yet. Ross questioning his mother wasn’t helping either. She decided to try to change the subject.

“Is anyone ready for pudding? I have mince pie, which I fully admit is store bought, and I also have a lemon blueberry tart that is Ross’s favourite. Ross love, do you want to put the kettle on?” Ross looked at Demelza with a sneaking suspicion of what she was trying to do.

“Sure, love.” Ross got up and headed into the kitchen. Grace mouthed the words ‘thank you’ to Demelza.

**********

Ross shut the front door after saying goodbye to his parents for the night. Drake and Michael had left earlier loaded down with leftovers. Ross leaned against the shut door watching Demelza blow out the candles around the house.

“Fuck! I am so glad this day is over. I’m knackered, how about you?”

“Oh it wasn’t that bad. It had its moments.”

“I’m sorry love. I know it wasn’t exactly the day that we both had envisioned.”

“Don’t worry about it. Holidays aren’t always what they’re cracked up to be. But Ross, what I don’t understand is why you kept pushing at your parents?”

“What!! I wasn’t pushing at my parents? What are you talking about?”

Demelza backed up a little. She had never heard Ross raise his voice quite like that. “Whoa, wait a minute, calm down sparky!”

“I am calm!!!”

“Clearly you’re not! Stop yelling at me please.”

“I’m not …. Yelling. I am yelling.” Ross rubbed his hands over his face. “I am so sorry, love. I am just so frustrated.”

“Obviously. What is going on with you? And what was up with you throwing up your food? I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so worked up.”

“Ah, well, the food thing hasn’t happened in a very long time. It started happening after Claude died. My mum sent me to a therapist when it started happening. The therapist suggested that it was a reaction to the stress I felt with da, but it hasn’t happened in years.”

“That’s terrible. I wish you would’ve told me.”

“Honestly, I hadn’t thought about it in such a long time. I just got so upset seeing da all over mum like that, and she just looked so worn out and pale. None of it makes sense to me.”

“Do you realise that you’re upset that your da is showing your mum affection? Baby, that sounds a little barmy.”

“It does when you put it that way. He’s never been someone who is overly affectionate and loving in front of people. And then he was so nice to me. That really threw me for a loop.”

“Again. Your complaint sounds strange.” She wrapped her arms around Ross. “Why don’t you go upstairs and get in the shower and relax. I’ll take care of Seamus and lock up down here and I’ll meet you upstairs. Oh and I have one more Christmas pressie for you!”

“Really? Now that sounds intriguing. Don’t take too long.”

“Yes Ross.”

**********

Demelza hurried up and got into Ross’s last Christmas present while he was still in the shower. It was more of a joke than anything, and she felt kind of nervous about wearing it, but she bought the most modest outfit she could find. She had bought the new negligee when she went shopping with Caroline, but she thought Ross would get a kick out of one that was Star Wars themed, and she was able to find something on Amazon. She was still putting it on when she heard the shower turn off so she had to hurry. She turned off the bedroom light except for the lamps on the night stands. She caught a look of herself in the mirror, Was this a mistake? She was starting to shake. Maybe I haven’t really thought this through, especially since we were just together for the first time last night. Would he think of it as slutty? She grabbed Ross’s robe and put it on over the outfit to give herself some more time.

“Demelza, are you up here yet?”

“Uh yeah I’m here.”

Ross walked out of the bathroom with a towel around his waist, and saw Demelza standing there wearing his robe, looking awkward. “Hiya…. Are you alright?”

“Um yeah, I think… I’m just going to the bathroom.” She grabbed something out of the closet and headed for the bathroom.

Ross put his hand on her arm, “Demelza. What’s going on? Do you have something on under the robe?”

“Mmm yeah, but I’ve decided to put something else on. I’ll be right back.” She gave him a quick smile and headed for the bathroom.

Ross decided not to push it because she was obviously uncomfortable about something, and the last thing he wanted to do was make her more uncomfortable. After all, they had just been intimate with each other for the first time last night. Unfortunately, today was a busy day with Christmas and they hadn’t had much time to just be together in the afterglow as he would have preferred. He got a smile on his face while he slipped on a pair of his Star Wars boxers, and thought he would go get something to drink from the kitchen to give her some more time. He yelled through the bathroom door, “Demelza, I’m going downstairs to get something to drink. Do you want anything?”

“Um yeah, a Cola would be nice.”

“Okay I’ll be right back.”

Demelza opened the door a crack to see if Ross was still in the room. She ran out into the bedroom and threw the Star Wars negligee under the bed and hung up Ross’s robe on the back of the door, and jumped into bed. She had changed into the new baby doll nightie that she bought when she was with Caroline. She heard Ross coming back up the stairs and was smoothing out the blankets and was trying to seem all calm.

“Hey, I didn’t know if you would be hungry so I brought up some crisps as well.” Ross handed Demelza her drink and leaned down and gave her a kiss.

“Thank you. That was sweet of you. I see you’ve slipped on some of your new boxers!”

“Mmmm yes. I couldn’t resist modelling them for you.” He stepped back and put a hand on his hip while he strutted in the room and did a turn. “How do I look?” Demelza couldn’t help but give him a big smile.

In a low, seductive voice, Demelza said, “Oh Ross, I like your lightsaber!”

Ross had a mock shocked look on his face, “Why Demelza! I’m scandalised by your insinuation!” They were both laughing now.

Ross slid in under the covers and pulled his ginger in for a long kiss. He pulled back and looked at Demelza and sighed. “Is that a new nightie?”

A shy Demelza looked down at her hands, “Yes. I bought it that day when Caroline and I went shopping after we went to the day spa.”

“It’s very pretty. I like that colour on you.”

“Thank you.”

“Is that what you were wearing earlier under my robe?”

Demelza rolled her eyes and huffed a laugh, “No, that was somethin else, but then I changed my mind and put this on instead. Do you really like it? I mean, it’s not that see-through or sexy.”

“What are ya going on about, love? I do like it. It’s very pretty and it is sexy. It’s lovely, and it’s perfectly you.” He leaned over and gave her another long kiss. He leaned his forehead against Demelza’s. “I’m sorry that we haven’t had much alone time today after last night. It wasn’t what I would have wanted for us, you know, after last night.”

Demelza smiled, “Well it couldn’t be helped. But we do have all day tomorrow to just lay around and be together.”

Ross backed off a little and closed his eyes.

“Ross, what is it?”

“We really won’t have the whole day to ourselves. There’s something that I haven’t told you because I haven’t felt like it was my place to do so. But Drake promised me that he would come over tomorrow and talk to you about it, but the more I think about it, the more I think I should warn you…”

“Ross, what are you talking about? Why is Drake coming over tomorrow? You’re scaring me.”

“Demelza, the day that I picked up your dress from the dry cleaners, I walked in on Drake kissing someone.” Demelza got a smile on her face and started to say something. “No it’s not what you’re thinking, love. Drake was kissing Michael.” Ross watched Demelza carefully, and saw the confusion come over her face. “I didn’t think I should be the one to say something, and Drake promised me that he would finally tell you, so he is planning on coming over tomorrow to tell you. But the more I thought about it, the more I just thought that I should tell you. I didn’t want you to think that I’d been lying to you and hiding things from you.”

“Are you sure Ross? This doesn’t make any sense. He would’ve told me. He’s never once acted like he was gay, or anything. This doesn’t make any sense. Are you sure they weren’t just horsing around?”

“I’m very sure. They were in a definite embrace and kiss. And he admitted it to me, love. He and Michael have been in a relationship for three years. I think they even live together.”

“What!? No Ross, he would’ve told me. Three years! Why wouldn’t he tell me?”

“I don’t know love. I think he was just scared and didn’t want to lose you. He’s been hiding it from everyone this whole time. Demelza… are you alright? Are you upset with me?”

“What? No, no I’m not upset with you. I just don’t understand why Drake never told me. We’ve always been so close. I wouldn’t have been upset with him. I just hate that he’s going to have a hard life because of it. I have so many questions.”

Ross pulled Demelza into his arms and kissed her hair. “I’m sure you do. You can talk to him as long as you want tomorrow. I think he’s going to come over around 1:00. Now, can I get anything for you? Do you want to unwind and watch some tele?”

“No, I just want to lay here in your arms and have you hold me.”

“Well, that’s easy, I can do that. What a day, huh.”

“You can say that again.”

Ross scooted them both down in bed so that they could lay on their sides, facing each other. “Here, let me cover us up. You’re shivering. Better?”

“Yeah, better. Thank you.”

Ross was rubbing her arm in a comforting way. “I’m sure this is a big shock for you. I know it was for me when I walked in on them.”

“I bet it was. This was the day that you picked up my dress?”

“Yes. I walked into the dry cleaners and I stood there waiting to be waited on. Nobody came out front, so I walked into the back room to find Drake, and there they were in an embrace, kissing. I cleared my throat to get their attention and they were just as shocked to see me as I was to see them.” He brushed her hair out of her eyes tenderly. He could see the worry in her eyes. “Are you alright, love? Should I have waited until tomorrow to let Drake tell you himself?”

“No, I’m glad you did. It’s just a lot to take in ya know? I don’t love him any less…” Her eyes started tearing up again.

“Shhhh, love. How about I hold you while you fall asleep, hmm?” He kissed her eyes gently then brushed his lips against hers before pulling her into him, caressing her back. Ross had hoped to make love with Demelza again, but it was obvious that she needed to be comforted more. “I love you Demelza. I want to take care of you forever.”

********

So the song and title for this chapter isn’t a Beatles song or a Billy Joel song. I found this song by country singer Chris Young, so I apologise in advance to those who might not be country music fans. I just chose it because I liked the lyrics, particularly “And you drive all night only to be near the ones you love, well it must be Christmas”.

It Must Be Christmas

Weather’s getting cold again

The leaves are falling off the trees

You can almost sense it’s time

For jingle bells and wrapping things

Every drive way’s full of cars

Kids out of school in the yards

When there’s lights on every street

Snowflakes on everything

Well it’s just what you’ve been waiting for all year

When you believe in Santa Claus

When you give gifts just because

And you drive all night only to be near the ones you love

Well it must be Christmas

All you see is red and green

And people wearing winter coats

Every church has a Nativity

For everyone to see

That’s how you know

It must be Christmas

*******

#aidan turner #modernpoldark #six sentence sunday #demelza carne #eleanor tomlinson #work in progress #ross poldark #poldark #demelza poldark

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realm-sweet-realm · 1 year ago

Text

Memory Lane

I know that having one's own fan cast for the Bendy characters is a bit out of fashion now, but I wanted to take out my Norman Polk and play with him like an old toy. I hope you all enjoy this.

---

The lost one struggled against his restraints. If he had anything resembling a heart, it would have been beating out of his chest. Behind him was the sound of the angel sharpening her sawblade. The lost one may no longer remember his former life, his name, or even the name of the lost one settlement he'd been plucked from, but he remembered one thing: the angel was dangerous.

The angel's high heels clacked against the floor as she came closer, moving slowly. Perhaps, the lost one thought, she was savouring the moment, watching him squirm. She began humming a little tune as she lowered the blade to the lost one's chest.

And that's when the lost one's life flashed before his eyes.

---

"So if they make it through all of the bases, that's called a home run?" Norman asked as he clung to his dad and the horse trotted along under them.

"That's right. And we used to watch the games in these big buildings called 'stadiums,' or listen to them on the radio. It was fun."

"When you get us out of here, can we go to a baseball game?"

"It'll be the first thing we do once we have money."

Norman snuggled into his dad's back. He usually had so many questions about the world beyond the commune, but at the moment he was fresh out of them, and apparently, his dad was fresh out of important explanations. Norman thought back on his father's explanations to try and come up with some more.

In the real world, when you own something, no one's allowed to take it away just because they thought someone else could use it more.

In the real world, a single accusation wouldn't end your life that quickly. We have courts that demand evidence. And the death penalty's rare.

In the real world, we aren't ruled by a single leader who claims to be chosen by God. We have leaders of cities, states, and countries, and we're allowed to talk smack about them and vote them out. Which is good because they still have too much power.

"Why do people in the real world let the leaders have too much power?" Norman asked. "Aren't they better than us?"

"No, they're made of the same stuff the people in here are. Look, I've explained a lot to you, but just assume that there's an unspoken 'but it's not that simple and there are still problems out there,' after every sentence, got it?"

"Got it."

The two arrived at the trapping grounds, which were about an hour's horse ride out from the commune. Norman's dad dismounted from the horse and tied it up as Norman slid off. The two got out their knives and set to work collecting rabbits and re-setting traps. Frost was melting off the plants as the sun rose, and as they worked, they talked. Out here, they could talk about whatever they wanted.

Just as they finished up, Norman spotted something: on a distant hill was a brown horse tied to a tree. The horse they'd ridden in on was black. At the distance, it was hard to tell if it was one of the commune's horses, but they were over five days' ride out from anywhere else, and there was no reason for anyone else to be there except to spy on them.

"Dad," Norman whispered. "Someone is here."

Norman's dad nodded. They would be quiet for the rest of the trip.

The lost one remembered feeling calm at the time, secure because he could tell his father felt safe so long as they took precautions. But the memory brought him devastation. It was days later that his father would be banished for corruption of a youth, and Norman never saw him again.

---

Norman had been mopping up muddy boot tracks on the corner store's linoleum floor when the clock struck five. He started mopping harder and faster so Elizabeth wouldn't be waiting for him. When he was finished and the mop put away, he met her at the front door and they headed out into the brightly-lit evening city.

"Not such a bad place to work, huh?" Elizabeth asked, smiling brightly.

"Not bad at all," Norman said. It had been very interesting seeing so many people come and go that day. Norman could see their faces calculating a thousand choices, most of them difficult. He and Elizabeth had joined the world at a bad time, it seemed. Something called "The Great Depression" had left a lot of people destitute. A whole lot of people had a whole lot less than their menial jobs and a family member to stay with.

The two got home to Liz's aunt's apartment. It was a nice place- homey. He’d heard that it wasn’t normal for a New York home to have so many crystals and dried herbs, but having just escaped the cult last week, he had little sense of what was normal out here, and if gaining one would keep him from appreciating little things like that, maybe he didn’t want one.

The two helped the older woman prepare dinner and ate together.

"I'm going to take a walk. See what i can find in the city," Norman announced once they were done.

“Can I come with you?” Elizabeth asked.

“Sure,” Norman said, unsurprised. He could see that she was attracted to him. She’d been rather nervous to be with him before because they didn’t have a choice. But now that they did…

The two set out to see what they could see. They went to a bakery, a bookstore, a pawn shop, and then heard whispers of a 'speakeasy' and decided to see what that was. They ended up ducking into what looked like a residential house but was full of people dancing, drinking, and laughing. Norman had never seen anything like it before. For a moment, he just stood there, people-watching. Joy and freedom were in the air.

"Wanna join them?" Elizabeth asked, pulling on Norman's arm.

"Why not?" Norman replied.

The two melted into the crowd. They passed by a couple of ladies making out, and Norman decided that he might as well give his own love life a shot.

"You know, I never wanted to be betrothed to you, because I don't want you to have to be with me, but... now that it's our choice, would you like to try dating?"

"Yes," Elizabeth said, her green eyes lighting up as they met his.

The two made out in plain view of the partygoers. In the middle of so many oddball people, they fit right in.

The lost one remembered Elizabeth's love. It had lasted him a good, long time.

---

"And this is the music department," Mr. Drew said, leading Norman into a new set of bright, yellow-coloured hallways, "Can you imagine cartoons without music? I certainly wouldn't want to!" The two walked past a number of offices- one with a "deadline looming, do not disturb," sign on it- as Joey rambled about the importance of music to put some soul into cartoons. Before they knew it, they'd reached the end of a hallway, which culminated in a double door with the words "recording studio," painted across it in whimsical font. "And here's where the magic happens," he said, "And, conveniently enough, where you'll be working!"

Joey opened the door to reveal a number of musicians noisily playing their instruments. A red-haired, tired-looking older man was waiting for them. Norman could tell he was eager to see them and bored out of his mind.

"Alright, Vince," Joey said to the man. "Show Norman here the ropes and you can leave your role as projectionist behind and join the writing department. I'll leave you to it." Ah, that was why he was bored- he was a creative type in a not-so-creative job. No mysteries to this one.

Vince and Norman exchanged introductions, and Vince took Norman up to the projection booth. He guided Norman as he ran the film through the reels of the camera as the music department was in swing.

"I suppose I should be thanking you for taking the job off my hands," Vince said. "It's mindless work once you get a knack for it."

Norman nodded. "I hope writing suits you better."

He looked out at the crowd of musicians. He could see a lot of hidden crushes and a lot of hidden grudges. It looked like there'd be some fun drama in this place. That was another thing the lost one remembered now: he'd been incredible at reading people, to the point of considering it a power of his. It had certainly given him some entertainment over the years.

But Norman also sensed that a lot of the people below him were unhappy. Strained. Crushed. Up until then, the bright creative culture of the studio was making Norman wonder if Grant's cautionings about the place were overblown. Now, he could see Grant's point.

---

"Do you want to know something else about Joey Drew?" Norman asked Grant, grinning as he sipped from his golden finch coffee mug. Inside, his daughter Olivia was having a play date with Grant's two daughters.

"What?" Grant asked, an owlish excitement on his face. Grant loved hearing secrets about Joey. They took a bit of mystery from the man and made him less intimidating to him.

"Him and Sammy."

Grant stared at him, wide-eyed and skeptical.

"No joke, I've seen Sammy comin' out of Joey's office all flushed and showing all the signs of shame and fear and lust."

Grant laughed. "Well, I don't want to say it, but..."

"They deserve each other? I suppose they do."

Grant nodded. "It's hard to believe that someone with as much pride as Sammy would put up with someone like that. But then, with what you've told me about him... the inside really doesn't match the outside, now does it?"

"It absolutely does not. Anyhow, you're still having Shawn and Lacie over to for poker tonight, right?"

"Definitely. I can't wait for you to meet them."

"Daddy, look what I made!"

Olivia handed Norman a beautiful watercolour painting of a horse. Norman had studied a little art for his daughter's sake, but even the most naive person on earth could have seen the skill that went into it. Later on, he'd tell her what she'd done wrong and right with the anatomy and shading and whatnot, but for now, he didn't want to take her away from her playmates for too long.

"Good girl. I'll take a closer look at it later," he said, handing it back to her.

---

The halls of the studio had been dim that night. Ink oozed from the pipes and seemingly the very walls like a fungus, staining mosaics created by their artists and posters that had once contained positive messages like, "work hard, work happy." This place used to have at least the appearance of an almost saccharinely friendly workplace. Now, it was downright eerie. Filled with the same energy as Norman's childhood community. He hated it.

Norman had stayed late that night. Why? Simple. Sammy Lawrence had stayed late as well, despite the music department experiencing a rare moment in which it was well ahead of schedule with no work that could have been done early. Norman had already strongly suspected that Sammy was up to something. Anyone could have seen that Sammy had been very off lately, moreso than ever. And Norman could sense a great pain, guilt, and fear weighing on him. Like he'd killed someone and would have to again.

Norman was going to find out what Sammy was doing. He had to. He turned the corner towards Sammy's office, and suddenly felt a large metal object hit him hard and repeatedly on the head and jaw.

When Norman woke up, he was bound, gagged, blindfolded, and lying on the floor, covered in ink. Next to him was what was presumably another person, inadvertently rubbing against Norman as they squirmed and attempted to speak. No more than an hour later, Norman began to hear ink-covered boots sloshing against the ink-covered ground.

"Sheep, sheep, sheep, it's time for sleep," came the smooth and charismatic voice of Sammy Lawrence.

Norman attempted to get himself upright. An axe dug through his side. The axe slashed again and again at his torso as Norman rose unsteadily to his feet. Another slash and he fell, hitting his head and going unconscious.

That had been the last moment he'd been human, the lost one realized.

---

Norman came back to, still tied to the gurney. Alice used the saw in a circular motion on his chest. His instincts told him to be afraid of being pierced, but strangely enough, its contact was only uncomfortable, like pieces of him were being stretched too far as Alice made way for whatever it was she was doing. She took a knife and sawed through his neck, cutting off his vision and throwing the amputated head onto the floor, where it landed with a splat. He could feel her attaching wires into him and putting something that felt hard, cold, and circular onto his chest. Finally, she gave him an electric shock, and he could feel his new mechanical parts come to life. Norman could see again. She threw a lever and undid his restraints. He reached for his head and found… oh. A projector.

"There. Perfect,” Alice said, stepping towards him. “Do you trust me now that I've made you the fastest and strongest lost one in the studio? I know that you wouldn’t have agreed to this on your own.”

Norman’s mind was swimming. Why would she do this? Loneliness? Genuine benevolence? He wasn’t sure. But he wasn’t about to look a gift horse in the mouth, especially to such a dangerous person. He attempted to thank her, but only a small, low, gurgling roar came out.

“That’s a good little mindless pawn. Now, are you going to stay near me and keep all the other nasties away?”

No, Norman thought. He had a lost one settlement to get back to. He began to wander out, taking a quick look back at Alice to see that she was smiling with satisfaction, blind to the fact that he had his mind back, however temporarily. He wandered out.

The halls Norman emerged into were ones he’d never seen before- Alice must have knocked him out quite a ways from here. Where was the lost one settlement he’d been tasked with protecting? He didn’t remember. It was like his memory was a leaky cup.

He had to find them, Norman thought as he began searching the unfamiliar halls. And he had to remember all the names he’d already forgotten once.

Apollo Polk. Elizabeth Polk. Shauna Polk. Grant Cohen. Olivia Polk. Susie Campbell. Sammy Lawrence. Shawn Flynn. Lacie Benton.

Apollo. Elizabeth. Shauna. Grant. Olivia. Susie. Sammy. Shawn… who was that last one?

At some point during his trek, he'd ended up lost. His lost one settlement was somewhere lower down- he knew it. But after going down a few levels, he couldn't find any more stairs that went downwards. Had he been down this hallway before? With the projector now permanently fused to his head, the lost one could illuminate dark hallways. Had it been dark where he came from? He didn't remember.

Some time into his wandering, Norman found a tape recorder containing his voice. He kept it with him. He had to remember who he was, even if that was all he remembered.

Sometime later, the lost one realized that he had a tape recorder in his hand and had a vague idea that it was important. Why? He couldn’t remember. He was wandering. Why? He couldn’t remember. But he knew it was important.

The lost one wandered, killed, and forgot until one day, a thin, one-eyed man came into his territory with humanoid abominations made of wires and tubes. The lost one fought. He killed several of them. But in the end, he was dragged off, incapacitated, and left to lay immobile and suffering.

---

“He’s waking up!” came a female voice that Norman didn’t recognize. Norman pried open his eyes, shielding them from the overhead light with his…

His hand. His hand was no longer thin and black. It was sketchy, like any ink creature’s, but it was the same long, scarred, hand and long, thick forearm he’d had as a human. Norman sat up to see the woman crouched down next to him.

“My name is Audrey,” the woman said. “I put you through the machine to give you your mind and body back. Did it work? Do you remember anything?”

It was then that Norman saw the people waiting for him at the door. Alice Angel was there, but her smile looked like that of Susie Campbell. With her were inky versions of Grant, Shawn, and Lacie.

“Yes,” Norman said. “Yes, I remember everything.”

#bendy and the ink machine #norman polk #sammy lawrence #projectionist #malice #ocs #my fanfiction

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