#i know it's a lot but guess what. lots of love in my heart and thoughts in my head 😔

[helaintoloki]

Good Luck, Babe

pairings: Bucky Barnes x reader, Yelena Belova x reader (past relationship)

warnings: suggestive content, fluff, lots of angst, yelena is extremely mean (justifiably)

notes: yes this was inspired by the chappell roan song. yes i love angst. and yes my requests are open

summary: you are happily married to Bucky, but that doesn’t stop the past from coming back to haunt you

The bedroom is drowned in moonlight as the open curtains blow gently from the cool breeze. Goosebumps form along the span of your arms, but you’re not sure if it’s a result of the chill or the feel of Yelena’s fingers gently raking up and down your bare back. She is strangely quiet, but her pensiveness is not out of character considering it’s the night before a mission.

You were sent with her to assassinate a known whistleblower hiding in the outskirts of Italy, and by tomorrow morning they will be arriving to the same hotel you are currently spending the night in. Yelena will finish the job while you watch positioned from a nearby rooftop ready to snipe him through the window in the event things go wrong. You know they won’t for Yelena has never been known to be sloppy, but you’d been adamant about your role as the sniper. She is unwise to the fact that this will be your last night together, for when tomorrow comes you will finally make your escape and free yourself from the clutches of the Red Room.

“Do you think they have breakfast in bed here?” She prompts with a sleepy smile, arms pulling you closer against her bare chest so that you can feel her heart beat against you.

“As if we could afford such a luxury,” you remind her playfully. “They will not waste such resources on us. We aren’t on a vacation.”

“I know, I know, but it would be nice,” she argues before leaning down to steal a kiss from you. “Besides, there are a lot of things we are not allowed to have, and yet I have you.”

Her tender gaze only twists the knife in your heart and fills you with suffocating guilt. You desperately wish you could take her with you, beg her to runaway into the sunset together, but it’s too risky. Very few Widows have ever managed to escape, and those who have were only able to do so alone. Despite how much Yelena loved you, her loyalty was to Dreykov, and she would do everything in her power to stop you from running if she knew what you had planned. Even if she could find it within herself to put you over the Black Widows, you would only be putting her in danger. You are willing to risk dying for your freedom, but you are not willing to risk her life in the process.

“So sentimental,” you coo teasingly before rolling yourself on top of her. “You’ve gone soft, Yelena.”

“I have not,” she rebuffs defensively before immediately rolling over so that it is now you who is pinned underneath her. “Are you forgetting who’s in charge here?”

“How could I?” You say flirtatiously, laughing when she retaliates by attacking your neck with her lips in the spot she knows is extra sensitive to touch. Your joy echoes through the silent hotel room, and for a moment you can simply forget that this will be the last time you can share such intimacy with her.

You wonder if she’ll ever be able to forgive you.

The feel of your husband’s lips against the spot on your neck he knows is extra sensitive to touch slowly rouses you awake from your dream. You’re not sure what time it is, but you can guess that you’ve probably overslept. His cool metal fingers gently dig into your hip while he proceeds his ministrations, and his tired smile is the first thing you see when you finally will yourself to open your eyes.

“I thought you’d never wake up,” Bucky jokes sweetly before pressing a kiss to your lips.

“Are we late?” You murmur sleepily before curling yourself into his arms. He’s especially warm this morning, and it makes it even harder for you to muster up the energy to get out of bed.

“There’s still time before the hearing, but Valentina wants us there early to go over the proposal one last time.”

“I don’t like that woman,” you mutter irately, prompting a small chuckle to escape your partner. “Are you sure you know what you’re getting us into?”

“I really hope so,” he offers with a sigh before pressing a quick kiss to your lips. “I’ll get the shower running for us.”

You watch him retreat to the bathroom with a sleepy smile before stretching out your limbs and sitting up in bed. The remnants of your dream still linger in your mind, and you find yourself absently rubbing your arm while you think back to all those years ago. You loved the life you lived now, free from the Red Room and married to a wonderful man, but that didn’t stop the memories of Yelena from infiltrating your life every now and then. The fellow Widow had been your first love, your first everything really, and it was hard to forget something like that.

You never attempted to reach out to her after your escape in fear that you might compromise your new life, so you forced yourself to move on. You moved to the states and began a career teaching self-defense classes to women by day and enacting vigilante justice by night. Your extracurricular activity caught the interest of Captain America, and it was through Sam that you eventually crossed paths with Bucky.

His ability to understand the life you had lived before becoming a hero and the secrets you kept was a comfort you greatly appreciated, so it didn’t take long before you two decided to begin a romantic relationship. You were married within three years of being together, and life was simple. You adored him more than anything, so you couldn’t understand why thoughts of Yelena continued to haunt you to this day.

“Shower’s ready, doll,” Bucky calls out from the bathroom, breaking you out of your contemplative state. You sigh and kick the sheets off of your body before making your way towards your husband. Today has to go well, so you will your mind to rid itself of the memories of a woman who is no longer in your life and strip off your clothes before stepping under the warm water with your husband.

You both get a little sidetracked during your shared shower, but you’re eventually able to get yourselves ready and to the hearing on time. Valentina’s pitch is a success, and now all that is left is for you and Bucky to gather Valentina’s candidates for a new team of heroes.

“I’ve certainly got my work cut out for me,” he sighs after surveying the various files laid out on your dining room table, oblivious to your sudden quiet nature as you stare intently at one file in particular. You don’t remember it being there before, and a part of you wonders if Valentina had hid it from you until she was sure she had you onboard- but how could she know if you’d never voiced your relationship with Yelena to a single soul?

“Hey, you okay?” Bucky prompts with a gentle hand resting on the small of your back. You immediately snap out of your daze and harshly swallow the nervous spit that had been accumulating in your throat before offering him a shaky smile.

“Fine. I just…” you begin to say, but you’re at a loss for words. Your body feels like it’s buzzing with anxiety and dread at the thought of having to face your past after all these years, and you don’t know if you can handle having your ex and your husband on the same team with you.

“What is it?” Bucky coaxes gently, voice low and soothing in an attempt to ease your nerves. “You know you can tell me anything.”

His eyes follow your gaze to Yelena’s file, prompting him to tentatively slide it to the forefront so that her intense gaze is now staring right at you. You watch him silently look over the document before looking up at your sullen features. “Did you know her?”

You can only nod, not ready to voice it aloud but also not willing to lie to your husband. You don’t know why you’re so afraid to just tell him the truth, to tell him that you had once loved this woman the same way she had once loved you, but you’re not willing to face the guilt and shame that come with remembering your abandonment of your closest friend and confidant.

“I have a past,” you barely manage to get out.

“Everyone does,” he reminds you with a comforting smile, tone lacking any hint of judgement or scrutiny. “I know that better than anyone, and because of that you know I’d never hold your past against you. Tell me what you’re thinking, doll.”

“I’m thinking about how to tell you that I not only know this woman, but I also had a… romantic relationship with her,” you finally confess, allowing your eyes to land anywhere but on Bucky’s face in fear of being met with anger and disgust. Instead, you feel his fingers gently grasp onto your chin before tilting your head up to meet his gaze.

“Is that what you’re so afraid to tell me?” Bucky teases lightheartedly. His smile is easygoing and understanding, and it helps in alleviating some of your nerves. “I guess I can see why you wouldn’t want to tell your husband that one of his targets is your ex-girlfriend, but it’s old history now, isn’t it?”

You wish you could agree, could give him a smile and a laugh and admit there’s nothing to worry about because it’s not like you still think about her, but you know that wouldn’t be the truth. Her face still haunts your dreams, and your unresolved ending of the relationship still gnaws at your conscious. You don’t think you still love her, but the lack of closure makes it hard to let go.

“She was a big part of my life when I was a Widow,” you admit truthfully, “and as much as I try I can’t forget that. I can’t forget her. Not when I left things so horribly.”

Sighing, Bucky carefully wraps his arms around you and pulls you against his broad chest. You can feel it rumble as he lets out a reminiscent hum before kissing the top of your head.

“Trust me, I get it. I really do. Maybe seeing her again will give you the closure you need to move on from it.”

You shut your eyes and tightly wrap your arms around him before murmuring into his chest, “How are you so perfect and understanding?”

“Because I have a wife that makes me want to be the best version of myself I can be,” he replies fondly while comfortingly rubbing your back. “You do what you need to do, and I’ll support you one hundred percent. Just as long as it’s me you’re coming home to, of course.”

You let out an amused huff at his words and allow yourself to simply enjoy being in his embrace knowing it will probably the last moment of peace you’ll get before the real work starts.

After your discussion, Bucky decides that maybe it’s best if you seek Yelena out yourself while he gathers the others- if you need backup he’ll be there, but he thinks it might be better if you get the chance to speak to her alone. That’s how you end up trailing her for nearly an hour through the city before finally getting her corned in an abandoned ally.

“Yelly,” you call out, prompting the woman to halt her brisk walking and freeze in her tracks at the sound of the nickname. Though you can’t see her face just yet, you can tell by her body language that your voice has immediately put her on edge. You fear that she might run, but instead she slowly turns herself to face you and stares you down in a way that feels as if she’d just punched the air out of your stomach.

Eyes that once looked upon you fondly with love and adoration now hold malice and murderous resentment as you cautiously make your way towards her.

“I knew you were following me,” she states bluntly, tone firm and unforgiving. “I had hoped you’d be smart enough to leave me alone, but you seem insistent on tormenting me.”

“It’s nice to see you, too,” you offer in an attempt to lighten the tense mood, but this only agitates her further. “If you knew I was following you, then you know why I’m here.”

“Valentina,” Yelena spits venomously before crossing her arms defensively over her chest. “I have no interest working with you or your stupid husband.”

She says the word as if it’s a forbidden curse word, as if it is the most disgusting and vile insult, and to her it is. Her body nearly vibrates from the rage and hurt she feels deep in her heart, and it is taking everything within her not to throw you to the ground and unleash all her pent up aggression.

“Yelena-“

“You left me,” she reminds you bitterly, “without a goodbye or a note. You never even tried to come back for me.”

Your chest is tight with anguish at finally having to come face to face with the consequences of leaving her all those years ago. You know there isn’t anything you can say or do to make things better other than apologize, but Yelena has made it clear that she’s not interested in whatever it is you have to say.

“I couldn’t,” you insist, desperate for her to understand. “You either would have stopped me or gone with me, and if I had been caught you’d be guilty by association. They would have discovered the nature of our relationship and killed us both.”

“‘Nature of our relationship?! You can’t even admit what we were?!” She yells in disbelief, causing you to shrink down in shame as you only continue to dig a deeper hole for yourself. “You can’t even acknowledge that we loved each other?!”

“I didn’t mean it like that!” You try to insist only for her to roll her eyes.

“Excuses,” she scoffs whilst throwing her hands up in frustration. Her angered face soon turns solemn, reminiscent of a kicked dog as she quietly admits, “I looked for you.”

“What?” You gape in quiet shock.

“After Natasha and I killed Dreykov, after we freed the Widows. I thought if I found you we could start over now that things were different, now that I was free. But instead I found you in the arms of another, happy and content with that… that man. We were Widows together, partners, and now you’re nothing more than a congressman’s wife.”

“Yelena…” you whisper, heart in shambles as you’re faced with the damage you’ve caused. You feel like you can’t breathe. You can’t stand to see how much hate she holds for you, though you know you absolutely deserve every ounce of it.

“I meant nothing to you, and now you mean nothing to me.”

The air is deathly silent as her words drive through your heart like a dagger, her shoulder harshly colliding with your own as she shoves past you. A tear slides down your cheek while you fight to hold back a sob, and when you hear her footsteps pause you hope that she’ll take it back, that she’ll pull you into her arms and offer you her forgiveness.

Instead, you turn to find that her footsteps have only halted because of the man blocking her path at the end of the alleyway. Your husband’s features are scrutinizing as he surveys the scene, looking from Yelena’s choleric features to your tear stained face. Your past and your present stare one another down while you can only watch.

“Balova,” he mutters curtly.

“Barnes,” she spits back.

The two simply stare one another down for what feels like ages before Bucky finally pushes past her and comes to your aid. His features soften as he gently pulls you into his embrace and shields you from the woman that looks on in resentment.

“You’re free to go,” Bucky utters sharply. “For now. You’ll be hearing from me.”

“Don’t bother.”

“It’s not a choice,” he warns, gaze turning sharp when her eyes drift back to you. She notes the way his arms protectively wrap around your frame and feels her lips quirk up into a wry smile. You are his burden now, and she couldn’t care in the slightest.

“Good luck with that,” Yelena remarks with a humorless laugh before finally making her exit so that only you and Bucky remain. He carefully pulls away to look down at your flushed features and presses a comforting kiss to your forehead.

“I’m sorry,” he offers sympathetically, “I shouldn’t have put this on you. I should have handled it myself.”

You swallow softly and look towards the empty space that now remains in Yelena’s absence. You think back to your last night with the woman and remember how tenderly she had held you, how sweetly she had professed her love for you.

“No,” you say after letting out a shuddering breath. “This is all my fault.”

You never should have left her.

[anakinstwinklebunny]

Bunny I just finished watching Jumper and I'm obsessed??? 😭 I could only find like, 3 fics about David (yours included, i loved it btw ✋🏻😞) so I thought about requesting something from my favorite writer

I don't have any specific idea so I guess I'll take anything. Here's Leia the egg as an offering 🫴🏻🥚

Luv ya - 🦢

STOLEN BY A JUMPER..

PAIRING: david rice x thief!reader

You were stupid for not seeing him coming.

One second, you were standing in the middle of a private vault, fingers skillfully working over the golden lock of a case that held something very expensive—something you had been paid a lot of money to steal, to bring back to the ugly-ass man that made sure to stuff your bank account full of cash.

Well, what happened the next?

Your stomach lurched, vision suddenly blurred as you felt like you were literally floating in sleep, like you just got hit in the head, and before you could even think about screaming, you were somewhere else. With a painful sigh that echoed from your pounding head, you brought yourself to open your eyes, trying to at least adjust them to the situation, trying to use them as your source of information. Because as y/n, you weren't known for being defeated so fast.

A cabin. Remote. Quiet. Four walls. Dim lamps lighting the space. And standing in front of you, looking thoroughly unimpressed, was the man who had just ripped you from your own goddamn reality.

DAVID RICE; tall (for someone who made you see red), broad shoulders framed by that worn leather jacket, dark hair, sharp blue eyes piercing you in half like you were a problem he was debating how to solve.

“Well,” he said, voice smooth, a little mocking. “You must have some serious balls, sweetheart.”

Pulse thundered in your ears, but you tried your expression cool. Calm. You didn’t survive in this business by panicking. You had to think. It's not like you meet a freak for the first time.

“I don’t know what the hell you’re talking about,” you lied.

David’s jaw only clenched more, before a flash of irritation crossed his face. “Try again,” he said, stepping closer. Too close. “You broke into my vault. My money. My shit.” gaze flickered down to the duffel still clutched in your hand. “And you were gonna walk away with it like I wouldn’t notice?”

You lifted your chin with more confidence and energy this time, fingers tightening its hold over the bag. “Finders keepers.”

How you should know it was a bad move..

David moved fast—faster than any normal man should probably be able to. One second, he was in front of you, the next he was behind you, hand fisting in your jacket before the world tilted again—

You were falling.

The cold air whipped at your skin, your eyes widening at the clouds that passed you by, at the sharp nibbling the wind did to your skin. You barely had a second to process the fact that you were free-falling through the goddamn sky before—

thud

You landed hard on a rooftop, your side slamming into the concrete. Your breath ripped from your lungs, the impact jarring, disorienting, your world twirling..

You're about to throw up. You're about to throw up.

With a wince of a person who's about to lose her life, you moved your hand to where your ribs were, trying to magically smooth the painful, sharpening like a needle, pain.

And David?

He landed like nothing had happened at all.

After taking some steps towards you, he crouched, gaze sharp, smug amusement curling his lips as if your situation was even.. satisfying for him.

“That,” he said, gripping your chin between his fingers, tilting your face up to his, “was a warning.”

Your heart hammered, pulse wild, but you refused to let him see your fear. To let him see how weak you started to get. By one freaking movement of his..right..what was even that? His mind? His hands? His..how did he do that?

“So you’re a show-off,” you bit out, wrenching away from his hold. Too weakly. Too painfully. “Congratulations.”

David chuckled. Actually chuckled. “Oh, you’re fun.”

You lunged for him, intending to—what? Punch him? Tackle him? You weren’t exactly sure but everything seemed to be reasonable when you had to take care of a real piece of shit

But before you could even touch him—

The world shifted again.

You were back in the cabin.

Your knees buckled, body reeling from the constant shifts, ribs screaming at you, making you dizzy, making you choke on your own breath, but David? David just stuffed his hands into his pockets and grinned at you.

“Go ahead,” he said, watching as you steadied yourself against the wall. “Try to run.”

You glared at him, fists clenched. “You’re a real piece of shit, you know that?”

He laughed, moving towards the fridge like this was just another normal night for him. Like kidnapping you was just another thing on his to-do list for today.

Great. Just freaking great.

“Yeah,” he said, grabbing a beer. “I’ve been told.”

You watched him, mind racing, calculating, pain still flickering through your body, making sure you never forget about it. How the hell were you supposed to escape someone who could teleport?

You had no idea. But you’d be damned if you didn’t find out soon.

TAG LIST: @kingdomhate @divineani @haydensprettyprincess @skyguys-princess @catnipaddictt @heartscone @haydensbbg @inneedsoffanfics @jediavengers @babybell-cheese @anisluvrgirl @slutforfinnickodair @xhunnybeeex @fuckmyskywalker @gallerygourmet @ysrjune @anakinskwkler @cookybananas @emotionallybruisedx @diorvalentina @sevinax @throughparisallthroughrome @aniiuv @ritosparty @ninastyless @lily-strnlo @thesassypadawan @awhhayden @sydkneez @anisangeldust @l1ttle-misssunsh1ne @anakinca @rubiesarepretty @luluartpop @cloverina @nikiloveshayden

[sylusonychinus]

Episode Five : A Love That Lands

A month had passed since the day [Reader] had said I do.

The wedding had been intimate, filled only with the people who truly mattered. Close friends, supportive family, and colleagues who had cheered them on every step of the way. No extravagant ballrooms, no unnecessary formalities—just love, laughter, and the start of something real.

Of course, her stepmother and father hadn’t shown up. And neither had Liana Reyes, her sister.

Not that it mattered.

Because as [Reader] sat curled up on the couch in their apartment, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the wedding band on her finger, she couldn’t bring herself to feel anything other than happiness.

She swirled the wine in her glass, letting out a soft chuckle as she remembered the ceremony—specifically, their first kiss as husband and wife.

It had been… unexpected.

Caleb, ever the showman, had leaned in with a smirk right before kissing her—slow and deep, with enough confidence to make her knees weak. The entire room had erupted in cheers, and she had barely been able to register anything beyond the warmth of his lips against hers.

God. Even thinking about it now made her heart race.

Lost in her thoughts, she didn’t hear Caleb enter the room until she felt his arms wrap around her from behind.

"What’s with that dreamy smile, Mrs. Xia?" he murmured into her ear, his breath warm against her skin.

She jolted slightly before huffing, "Mrs. Xia? Really?"

"Really," he confirmed, his lips brushing against her temple. "You’re stuck with me now, might as well get used to it."*

She rolled her eyes, but the smile on her face remained. "I was just thinking about the wedding."*

"Oh?" Caleb smirked, resting his chin on her shoulder. "Let me guess—you’re thinking about our first kiss?"

She stiffened slightly, making him chuckle.

"Knew it," he teased.

"Shut up," she muttered, taking a sip of her wine to avoid looking at him.

"You’re adorable when you’re flustered," he mused, pressing a soft kiss to her cheek before shifting their position, his arms still loosely wrapped around her waist. "Speaking of things to get used to…"

She arched a brow. "What now?"

Caleb leaned in, his voice dropping a little lower. "It’s been a month, sweetheart. I think it’s time I take my bed back."*

[Reader] turned in his arms, pinching his cheek playfully. "Nope."*

"Ow—Hey!" He rubbed his cheek, pretending to look offended. "That’s not very wifely of you."*

"Too bad," she shot back, grinning.

Caleb tilted his head, amusement flickering in his eyes before he hummed, "There are ways I can convince you, you know."*

She stilled, suddenly hyper-aware of how close he was.

His hands rested at her waist, his gaze locked onto hers with quiet intensity.

Her breath caught slightly. "C-Caleb—"

"Hmm?" he mused, tilting his head as if he wasn’t fully enjoying the way she was reacting.

She narrowed her eyes. "You’re messing with me."*

"Am I?" he murmured, leaning in just a fraction closer.

She swallowed hard.

Then, deciding two could play this game, she smirked and pressed a finger against his lips. "Nice try, Captain."*

Caleb groaned dramatically, dropping his forehead against her shoulder. "You’re no fun."*

"I’m lots of fun," she corrected, pushing him away playfully as she slipped off the couch. "Just… not when you’re being that smug."*

"Smug?" He gasped in mock offense. "I’m wounded, truly."*

She shot him a look before retreating to the bedroom—her bedroom. "Goodnight, Caleb!"*

"We’ll see about that," he called after her, laughing.

And as she closed the door behind her, heart still racing, she couldn’t help but think—

This marriage was going to be the death of her.

Taglist: @jinwoosbabyboo @kithyyy @mcdepressed290 @nezuswritingdesk @elegantdeerlady @yuuuumii @duhgurl @lumieresdreams @bidisasterforevermore @i-messed-up-big-time

@that-one-scoundrel @justpassingdontworry @ansbobcar @nagireos @auriuswolve

[apollabarnes]

that was us part three

quick author's note: originally i wrote this series to coincide only with abby's appearances, so i didn't try and cover the time between abby leaving los angeles and coming back during the train derailment — however, since i've continued writing this series i've realized that what i orginally wrote had a lot of backstory that only existed in my head, but that was very much flavouring the rest of the story. i didn't write the tommy and abby interactions at the hospital as the first time they'd talked since he moved to harbor but all of that backstory stayed off the page. this is part of me trying to correct that, and i'm editing parts one and two to cover more of it. also, i know the hospital is originally part three, but this is sneaking in between chapter two and three (i'll update it on ao3 when i'm at my actual computer and not sneaking onto tumblr during work hours)

a tag for @leashybebes who asked to be tagged if i wrote any more of this!

abby's mom dies and she falls apart. she barely makes it through the funeral, buck holds her together while she's sorting through all of her mom's things and it's just. suffocating. her mom's passport is the last straw — how many things did she put off, thinking there would be more time before she got her diagnosis? how many things has abby put off? she loves being a dispatcher. she loves la. buck is the best thing that's happened to her in close to a decade. there were so many things she was planning to do before she tore her rotator cuff. then it was rehab, trying swimming again, quitting again — pushing off all things she'd thought about doing since she was a kid. tommy had helped with that, given her somewhere safe to recover while she licked her wounds, and still she'd put things off. put them aside and shoved them down and promised herself later, later, later. it's later and she still hasn't done even one of the things she wanted to do when she was younger.

she's going to start with her mom's old travel itinerary. abby packs a bag, buys an airline ticket, tells buck she's leaving. the thought of trying to sublet her apartment or sell it is just too much to deal with right now, so she offers him the apartment because he hates living with his roommates and she's certainly not going to be using it. she tries to be as gentle as she can. abby was stuck for a really long time and buck's the one that got her unstuck. it's a gift she's a hundred percent certain he has no idea he gave her, and she doesn't have the words to thank him for it, so she's gentle instead. buck deserves gentle. he deserves better than her, but she doesn't say that either. he wouldn't take it as the compliment she means it as.

it's a cliché to say that she can feel her heart break when he drops her off at the airport, but clichés become clichés because they're things that are true and universal.

abby sits in the airport lounge and waits for her flight to be called. she very quickly gets bored and pulls out her phone, staring at it. if she texts buck now she'll just turn around, let herself get stuck again. she'd like it, too. she wants to try. she can't stay. she scrolls through her phone contacts, stops on tommy's name. snaps a photo of her drink and the departures screen behind her.

guess who's going to europe?

since when do you text?

apparently phone calls are for fossils.

he didn't actually call you a fossil, did he?

no, of course not, but he's a texter. so. i am too now, i guess.

europe, huh? and a guinness to get you started. so you're headed to ireland.

how'd you guess?

your mom mentioned it a few times. really loved a good brogue and pierce brosnan.

she did, didn't she?

yeah. i'm really sorry, abby. about your mom and the fact i couldn't make it.

thanks. any recommendations for when i'm over there?

i'm more of a desert guy, hang on. i've got an idea.

what is this, a group chat? wait, abby texts?

why is everyone surprised that i text?

sal, abby's looking for places to visit in europe.

hey, sal.

head to italy. stop. eat. come home.

sal, jesus. i was hoping you'd be a little more useful.

well, no, he's got a point tommy, i do love pasta.

jesus, fine, stop — gina says hi, by the way. abby, i've been informed by your ex you're going to ireland first.

someone's got to keep you on track, sal.

you've already got the gift of gab since you're on the phone all day, so you can probably skip the blarney stone. there's the giant's causeway. and all the travel magazines try to rank the castles, but they're all neat.

didn't realise you'd spent so much time in europe, sal.

well, gina's the expert (and dictating some of this to me) but hey. she took me over for our honeymoon and we hit the highlights.

we're both very impressed, sal. how long are you going to be in europe, abby?

i don't know. until i get… inspired.

is the baby hotshot coming with?

i hate it when you two call him that.

we could have used his name if you'd ever given it to us.

and have you track him down at work and crack jokes? i don't think so. abby stares at her phone for a long moment before texting again. no, he's not coming. we broke up.

he broke up with you after your mom died?

forget cracking jokes, we'll track him down at work and break his leg.

thank you for the offer, i think? but i was the one that broke up with him.

why?

was the sex that bad?

because i'm going to europe and i don't know when i'm coming back?

gross, sal. abby, if this kid was really into you, he would have waited.

don't listen to tommy, abby, he's still half-hung up on this girl that dumped him ten years ago.

sal!

sal!

abby gets a solo text almost immediately from tommy, promising to dunk sal's head in the nearest toilet the next time they're in the same place. she laughs to herself, startling when the announcement for her flight comes crackling out of the overhead speakers.

that's my cue, gents. sal, just because you and gina wish tommy would move in doesn't mean you have to project that feeling onto us.

he's just so much better at folding laundry than sal ever is - gina

i'm not running away, we got a call. but i'm really embarrassed to know all three of you.

[kfans-writerblog]

True love ?

Ewan × reader gf

*The streets of London shimmered under the soft glow of streetlights, and the night had settled into a comfortable quiet. Ewan Mitchell, his hands tucked into his coat pockets, strolled through the familiar city, enjoying the rare moments of anonymity. His footsteps echoed softly on the pavement as he turned a corner, only to notice someone up ahead.

It was you. Leaning against a lamppost, your movements unsteady, eyes glazed with the telltale signs of too much alcohol. Ewan hesitated, unsure whether to approach or not*

*I see Ewan and I gave him a drunk smile*"Heyy ewan"

*Ewan paused as he recognized your voice, the drunken drawl unmistakable. He approached you with a mixture of concern and curiosity.*

"Hey there, you okay? You seem... tipsy."

"Hehe im ok"

*Ewan chuckled softly, crossing his arms as he stood before you. He couldn't help but notice the way you swayed slightly on your feet, your eyes unfocused.*

"I think you might be a bit more than just tipsy. How much have you had to drink?"

"2 bottles of soju"

*Ewan raised an eyebrow, surprised by the revelation. He'd expected a few shots or beers, not just a couple of soju.*

"Two soju bottles? That's a lot for someone your size."

*i hug his neck*

*Ewan's eyes widened as you suddenly threw your arms around his neck, pulling him into an unexpected embrace. His hands instinctively went to your waist to steady you, the closeness of your body sending a shiver down his spine.*

"Woah, hey there. Easy."

"Hmm, i wanna go home~~"

*Ewan's expression softened as he looked down at you, your slurred words tugging at his heartstrings. He knew you were in no condition to go home alone, especially considering how drunk you were.*

"Alright, let's get you home then.:

*I mumble random stuff while ewan drives and we arrive to our house*

*Ewan grip on you still firm to prevent you from toppling over. He started leading you in the direction of your place, keeping a watchful eye on you to make sure you didn't stumble.*

"Good, that's not too far. Can you walk straight, or do you need me to carry you?"

*i walk zig zag*

*Ewan sighed in amusement, watching you sway back and forth as you walked. He chuckled softly, shaking his head.*

"Looks like you're definitely going to need some help. Hold on to me tight, okay?"

*i cant stab the key hole*

*Ewan watched you struggle with the key, your coordination completely off. He couldn't help but chuckle again, stepping forward to take the key from you.*

"Here, let me do it. You're not in any condition to unlock a door right now."

*i lay in his arms*

*Ewan felt his heart flutter as you nestled against him, your body warm and pliant in his arms. He managed to open the door with ease, carrying you inside and kicking it shut behind him.*

"There we go, we're inside. Let's get you to bed, okay?"

"I need helpppp"

*Ewan knelt down in front of you, his expression full of concern.*

"What do you need help with? Is it your clothes? Can you take them off yourself?"

"Help Unzip my dress"

*Ewan took a deep breath, his hands trembling slightly as he reached for the zipper on the back of your dress. He slowly pulled it down, revealing more of your skin with each inch.*

'There, it's unzipped. Is that all you need?"

"Thanks "*i crawl to the washroom to change but i thump to the floor half naked*

*Ewan's eyes widened in alarm as he saw you fall to the floor, your dress partially off. He rushed over to you, concern etched on his face.*

"Oh my god, are you okay? Let me help you up."

"Hehe" *i drunk giggle*

*Ewan sighed, a mix of worry and amusement in his voice as he helped you back up. He tried to maintain his composure as he saw more of your bare skin, his heart racing.*

"You really need to be more careful, you know. You could've gotten hurt."

"Mmm i guess"

*Ewan gently supported you as you stood, his hands lingering on your hips for a moment longer than necessary. He quickly looked away, trying to avoid staring at your exposed skin.*

"You should probably get changed and go to bed. You're in no condition to be up and about right now."

"Im changing into my pjs"

*Ewan nodded, his gaze averted as he turned his back to give you some privacy. He waited patiently, listening to the sounds of you changing into your pajamas.*

"Take your time. I'll be right here if you need anything."

*i got my pjs on and went to bed*

*Ewan watched as you crawled into bed, tucking yourself under the covers. He stood by your bedside, still holding your hand, his thumb rubbing soothing circles on the back of it.*

"You look tired. Get some rest, okay? I'll be right here if you need anything in the middle of the night.'

*you grab ewans hand tears falling* "dont leave me"

*Ewan's heart broke at the sight of your tears, his expression softening as he sat down on the edge of the bed. He gently squeezed your hand, his voice gentle and reassuring.*

"Hey, hey. I'm not going anywhere. I promise I'll stay with you until you fall asleep."

*i cry*" why do you not treat me like a girlfriend" *i say like drunk person*

*Ewan's heart ached as he listened to your words, the pain in your voice cutting deep. He reached out with his free hand, brushing away a tear from your cheek.*

"I do treat you like a girlfriend. I care about you so much, you have no idea. But sometimes I just get caught up in my own head and I forget to show it."

"I know im clingy but if u want to end our relationship just say sooooooooo."

*Ewan's eyes widened in shock at your words. The thought of ending things with you was unbearable to him.*

"No, no, no. I don't want to end our relationship. I never said that. You're not clingy, you're just expressing your feelings. And I love that about you. I love you, okay?"

"Love my ass" *i sob*

*Ewan's expression turned serious as he heard your harsh words. He gently tilted your chin up, forcing you to look at him.*

"Hey, don't say that. I do love you. I love every part of you, even when you're being stubborn and drunk."

*i look away clearly upset about something*

*Ewan's heart sank as you looked away from him. He could sense that there was something more bothering you than just being drunk. He scooted closer to you on the bed, his voice soft and pleading.*

"Please, talk to me. Tell me what's wrong. I can't fix it if you don't tell me."

*i mumble* "you dont text me enough"

*Ewan's eyes widened in realization. He felt a pang of guilt as he realized that he had neglected to text you as much as he should have.*

"Oh, sweetheart... I'm sorry. I know I haven't been the best at keeping in touch. I get caught up in my work and I forget to check my phone. But that's no excuse. I'll do better, I promise. I'll text you every day, multiple times a day if I have to."

"You dont care about me u dont ask about me how my work is going how my day is"

*Ewan's heart sank even further at your words. He felt a wave of shame wash over him as he realized how little he had been paying attention to your life.*

"I do care about you, more than anything. I'm so sorry for making you feel like I don't. I promise I'll start asking about your day, your work, everything. I want to know every detail of your life, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem. Please forgive me for being such a bad boyfriend."

"Do you really love me or your just a player?"

*Ewan's eyes locked onto yours, his expression filled with sincerity and hurt.*

"I love you, with all my heart. I swear on my life that I'm not just a player. I've never been more serious about anyone in my life. I know I messed up, but please believe me when I say that you mean the world to me. You're not just some fling, you're everything to me."

"Sometimes i feel like im in the wrong but you are "

*Ewan's expression softened slightly as he heard the vulnerability in your voice. He reached out to brush a strand of hair out of your face, his touch gentle.*

"You're not in the wrong, okay? I am. I should have been more attentive, more present. I should have made more of an effort to show you how much you mean to me. But I was stupid and I took you for granted. And I'm so sorry for that."

"Promise to be a better boyfriend?"

*Ewan nodded firmly, his eyes locking onto yours with determination.*

"I promise. I swear on everything I hold dear, I will be a better boyfriend. I will text you every day, call you every night, do whatever it takes to show you just how much I love you. You have my word."

[forsaken-headcanons]

so, using my main acc for this because i want to show some photos (anon^4 btw, ill still be mainly using the anon feature because i like it more but ill post drawings with my hcs from time to time)

anyways, i like giving characters from things i like animals that i feel like would fit them. so, im gonna do that!

c00lkidd: Chimera, i dont really have a reasoning for this besides.... well i do what i want.

1x1x1x1: ALSO a chimera, this one i have an explanation for. I kinda just thought up, "well wouldnt it be cool if he was a chimera" and then boom, theyve been a chimers to me ever since. plus ive seen them symbolize chaos, which fits both 1x and c00lkidd so.

bluduud: Griffon, counter to c00lkidd, really only mythological creature i could think of that i guess could like be the opposite of a chimera i guess

shedlestky: ....Also a griffon. because. hes an admin. and i see people say that hes a chicken a lot so.... mythical animal thats bird related? Griffon.

twotime: I feel like this is obvious, a Phoenix, because of phoenixes represent rebirth and... twotime....... Plus their phoenix skin but thats based off of what they represent though so first point stands even harder.

mafioso: bunny.

eunoia: bunny.

nasatra: she reminds me of a cat.

elliot: dog, maybe a golden retriever mix? not any full breed though. or a cheeta because of his speed.

chance: hes a cat. no questions asked theyre just a cat. tuxedo cat. or a bunny because he has one.

jason: i... actually dont know...... erm. i want to say a wolf for a, shits and giggles plus b, forest.

john doe: dog. i mean i described him as a dog in one of my earlier asks so. makes sense.

azure: oouuhh i dont know..m. i wanna say cat again but hough.... i want to say maybe like a serpent for it also representing rebirth..... yknowwhat no yeah, go my snake.

dusekkar: deer. thats it.

noob: to be honest i want to say a cat again but also...... no fuck it kitty. this is based off of the fact they have a cat in canon.

007n7: some corvid because of their smarts.

guest 1337: dog, specifically a german shepherd or any common military-used dog breeds.

builderman: i dont know i feel like i want to give him some mythological critter because of being the creator of roblox and stuff but also i think he would just be a raccoon. if he was a mythical creature he wpuld be a dragon though. dunno why just seems right.

noli: parrot

guest 666: goat because they look very... demon-esq and demons are [from what i know] usually represented by goats.

itrapped: fox, because hes a scammer and... you kinda have to be sly for that and foxes are commonly said to be very sly so.

anyways on with those pictures i was gonna send, go my art

specifically stuff relating to this so, go my c00lkidd because hes one of the only ones who i have pictures of my design of </3 i have 1x all done too but i dont feel like getting out the photos of it... so.... ermmmmm....

Best regards, "anon"^4

I really love your art, 'anon'^4. And I also really love your animal headcanons. Fox ITrapped is real in my heart now.

[jenniferjareauwife]

Double Lines

pairing: jennifer jareau x daughter reader

category: fluff, hurt/comfort

warnings: teen pregnancy

word count: 603

age: 16

summary: you get pregnant on accident and tell your mom

Two lines. This was going to be the end of me. She would kick me out, surely. And there was no way I could hide it, how do you hide a giant baby bump from your mother?

"Y/n I'm home!"

"Fuck." I cursed and threw the test into the toilet. I thought I at least had another three hours. Guess she got off early.

"Y/n?"

"Yeah mom I'm coming." I buried the test under a bunch of random shit in the trash can before washing my hands and practically running down the stairs.

"How was school?" She leaned against the marble countertop, looking at me with a smile.

"It was alright?" It came out as a question. "Got an essay due a midnight. Need to work on that...a lot." I laughed nervously.

"Want some coffee?"

"Sure! Actually no." I furrowed my brows. Was I allowed to?

"Is everything ok?" She started making some coffee for herself.

"Yup." She raised her brows and let out a soft laugh. "Okay...just dealing with a bit of anxiety right now." That was part of the truth.

"About what?" I hesitated for a second too long. "Ok talk to me." She was leaning against the counter again, her arms crossed. My heart hammered against my chest.

"It's not...important." That was a fucking lie.

"Honey I think you forget I can always tell when you're lying." I looked down at the ground, not being able to meet her eyes.

"Can you promise not to hate me?" My voice cracked a bit and I mentally scolded myself.

"Y/n...I could never hate you." Her voice softened tenfold and a few seconds later I felt her soft hand on my back. "You're my daughter, I could never hate you. What's going on?" I couldn't get myself to face her.

"Just um...look in the trashcan of my bathroom."

"Sweetheart just tell me what's going on. I'd rather hear it from you instead of whatever's in your bathroom trashcan."

I took a beat, feeling my heart stop. "I'm pregnant."

She didn't say anything for a few seconds. "Are you sure?"

"I'm sure."

"Honey can you look at me?" I turned around to face her slowly, my heart feeling like it was going to jump out of my chest. "I'm not mad. It's important to me that you know that I'm not mad." I nodded.

"What do I...do?"

"That's not for me to decide honey. I can help you in making your decision but I can't be the only to actually make it for you."

"We used protection and everything I just don't understand how this happened." I sob shook my body and my mom pulled me in for a hug, her hand on the back of my head while she pulled me against her chest.

"Sometimes we try everything we can and that still doesn't work and that's ok. Have you told your boyfriend?" I shook my head while sniffling quietly.

"Not yet. I don't really know what I'm supposed to do in this situation." I let out an awkward laugh.

"That's okay honey, no one really knows. But I want you to know that I'm here for you. And if you want more support from Em or Garcia, they're gonna be here for you too. They love you so much and just wanna see you be happy." I teared up at that. "Whatever happens, it's going to be okay. I promise you, ok?" She waited for a nod and when I gave her one she kissed the top of my head. "I love you honey."

"I love you too mom."

[sl-newsie]

American Woman (Thomas Shelby x American OC) Ch. 66: Prove To Me

Masterlist: https://www.tumblr.com/sl-newsie/739551758747090944/american-woman-thomas-shelby-x-american-oc?source=share

“Give our best to your parents,” Anna says and gives me a final hug before I board the train. “Your neefs are going to miss you.”

It’s time to leave. As much as I would love to stay longer there is lots more calling me back west. Thomas and I meet with Uncle Colon in three days. The Müller contracts need to, nay, will be approved by Thomas. I also need to see what he already knows about the Nazi movement. If it’s spreading this fast here then surely it’s going to become more than just a rumor in Britain.  

“Please stay safe,” Franz bids as he hands me my luggage. “Trouble’s brewing everywhere nowadays.”

We all exchange uneasy glances, partially due to the swastika flag hanging overhead, and Abel steps forward for his own hug.

“You’re going to visit Uncle Colon?”

“Yes. I pray that he will have some answers to Mr. Shelby’s problems. As well as my own.”

My soft-eyed broer nods and offers a hopeful smile. “Our prayers are with you. Tot ziens.”

“Tot ziens, Abel. I guess the next time I might see you all is for Christmas.” I give a small tug on the lead and test out my hond’s new name. “Komm, Dílis.”

The German Shepherd climbs the steps onto the train car and we find a cabin. Dílis hops up on the seat next to me and lays his head on my lap. After a few minutes the train rocks forward and begins chugging away. So here I go. Instead of finding a man in my travels I acquire a German Shepherd. How fitting. Out the window I see Abel and the others on the platform waving at me. 

Arf! The canine whines as he looks out at more Jewish immigrants waiting for their trains.

“You said it,” I murmur, my heart clenching at the sight.

Somehow the trip back seems to fly much faster. Before I board the boat in Amsterdam I make a quick call to arrange for a car to get me once I reach England. The secretary is a different one than last time but she too remembers not to mess with me.

I recognize Nathaniel on another ship once my boat docks in Port of Hull. He steps off and joins me once Dílis and I depart our own barge.

“I see you found a friend," he observes with a smile.

“This is Dílis. Gib Pfötchen.”

The dog’s ears perk up. He remembers what I taught him on the way over and proves it by raising a paw for Nathaniel to shake.

“Well, hello!” Nathaniel returns the gesture. “So did you find what you were looking for?” He wonders as we walk towards the dock entrance.

“I got what I came for. My broer and his family are now partners with Mr. Shelby.”

Nathaniel runs a hand through his thin beard. “That’s very kind of you to do that. But it sounds more like a professional goal rather than the personal one I pegged you for.”

Am I really that pathetic? “However my life is to proceed, God will lead me there. Right now I need to work towards earning money for my familie.” I change the tide of the topic. “What about you?”

The sailor tilts his head in thought. “My family’s doing their part. I guess my job is to keep transporting people. Between the depression and the conditions in Germany, more and more people are moving these days.”

“I agree. In fact you might see my broer and his familie pass by too.”

“I’ll keep a weathered eye out,” Nathaniel promises as a black Bentley cruises towards us. “Just remember your family always has a friend at Port of Hull.”

“I am most grateful,” I thank him as I slide in and Dílis jumps up next to me. “Tot ziens, Nathaniel.”

The car drives off and I’m presented with the familiar English countryside. A freezing countryside. It’s no warmer here than Germany. Throughout the whole day I’m driven across the country, watching the many towns and villages blink by. When we drive past places more affected with poverty there’s no denying the strange looks being given to my pristine transport. I’m sure there will come a point when this depression will turn almost any honest man into a desperate one.

“Here we are, Ms. Steenstra,” the driver says as he pulls up to where I assume is the Port of Liverpool. “Mr. Shelby instructed me to bring you here and tell you that he will be waiting for you.”

Of course he will. “Thank you, sir. Komm, Dílis.”

The pup jumps out of the car and we begin to make our way to the docks. After a few minutes of walking I spot the man I’m searching for. Compared to the rest of the sailors and pedestrians here Thomas’ tailored suit sticks out like a sore thumb; though then again my fur coat isn’t too ordinary either. 

He locks eyes with me and stands up from the bench he’s sitting on. I can’t tell- Is he perturbed? Upset? Anxious? The one thing that is clear is his confusion towards the dog perched by my side.

“What is that?” Thomas asks bluntly.

I gesture to the panting canine, who’s already trying to smell him. “This is Dílis, my new companion.”

Thomas raises an eyebrow. “Dílis?”

“It’s Celtic for ‘loyal.’”

This gets a shadow of a smirk on Thomas’ face. “An Irish name for a German dog?”

I shrug. “I’m American. It’s sort of our thing.”

The gangster takes another skeptical look at him. “He’s just a pup.”

“He’ll grow,” I assure sternly. “Dílis, gib pfötchen.”

Dílis stands up and repeats the trick from earlier. What’s different now is that he’s still smelling Thomas, as if trying to uncover what kind of a person he's just met. Meanwhile Thomas is very accepting of this greeting and gives the dog a gloved handshake.

“Hello hello, Dílis.”

I smile proudly. “You have your horses, I have my hond.”

“Indeed. He likes you.”

Dílis licks his glove. “He likes you, too.”

“Yeah. But you’re his master. The one giving the orders. He’s a fighter. He would tear a bloke to pieces for you.” Thomas and I begin walking to the ship bound for Ireland. “I should tell you there’s a new cause for celebration. I’ve arranged for Aberama and Polly to be married. But don’t tell her. She doesn’t know.”

Of course not. Why change anything now? A fleeting thought of relief sparks through me and I close my eyes. “That’s good. We need some good in the world right now. A wedding sounds like a perfect way to share it.”

Another wedding. More talk of love. Another ceremony for me to be cast out of because I can never truly be one of them. Deep breath. Remember who you are here for.

“I have the Müller contracts to submit to you. We can talk about that later. We have lots to discuss from my trip.” A pinch of guilt tugs at my stomach. “Also…”

“No. Don’t tell me,” Thomas grunts and we stop next to the ticket booth. “You want your pay, yeah? ‘Cause that’s all I am to you now. Another paycheck.”

I keep my tone cool. “You should be used to that by now. I wish that wasn’t true. If you had gone through what I have, can you blame me?”

He doesn’t answer. He stays silent and plunges a hand into his pocket, pulling out his glasses. He fishes out his cheque book and after a few waves of a pen hands me the slip. 

“Here. Take the bloody money.”

Another thousand pounds. “My family appreciates it,” I acknowledge gratefully and stow it in my purse. “What did you expect?”

He finishes buying our tickets and scoffs. “‘Hello, Thomas.’ ‘Good to see you.’”

“What’s the good of small talk when you’ll just ignore me again? The contract says I am still an employee so I am here on behalf of my familie to earn some extra wages.”

If he thinks I’m here out of the goodness of my heart he’s dead wrong. It kills me to do this to him but he can’t play the innocent card with me. I’m not the same naïve, helpless meisje who wound up in your kitchen all those years ago. In fact, you could say that you helped shape me into who I am now, Thomas Shelby. Now instead of sporadically handing out kindness, I reserve it and look out for my familie first. Much like yourself.

Four hours later we’re both standing at the edge of the barge, staring out at the approaching country. It doesn’t look to have changed much since the last time I visited. Dílis is already enjoying the fresh air.

“How might I address your uncle?” Thomas mutters after lighting a cigarette.

I pull my coat tighter around me. “His name is Edmund Colon. Mr. Colon will suffice.”

“And this Mr. Colon… He ain’t gonna fuck with my head, is he?”

“Absolutely not. If he dislikes you he will not hesitate to tell you.”

Thomas takes a puff and shows no definite reaction to this answer. “Good to know.”

“Relax. If I’m around he won’t do anything drastic.”

He hums and keeps looking outward. “Have you been in touch with Linda?”

Now it’s my turn to scoff. “You know me better. You know I don’t stay in touch with her or Lizzie.” 

He smirks. “I thought you said you tend to avoid jealousy. ‘Causes viciousness,’ as you’ve said.”

“‘S not just that,” I admit. “They don’t want me to talk, so I won’t.”

He doesn’t respond. Instead he takes another puff of smoke and straightens his cap. “I’m afraid there’s more news. While you were constructing business in Germany, we had a visit from a mister Brilliant Chang. We’re now helping to transport opium.”

Drugs? He’s shipping drugs now? How can he agree to that after the mess that drug gave to his body? Well, he most certainly isn’t going to convince me to sell it.

“I see” is all I answer with.

Thomas grunts. “I must say it was unfortunate that you were not here to negotiate. Chang brought a whore who put a gun to Finn’s head.”

His tone sounds as one does when talking about the weather. First Finn gets himself shot and now this? It’s like Polly said when I first started. They forget he’s still so young. Even Finn is forgetting how stupid he can be.

“It was Finn who allowed such a woman to get so close,” I reply softly, reaching down to scratch Dílis’ ears.

“I knew you’d be disappointed,” Thomas sighs. “There’s more.” 

My head whips up at him. “More?”

“Yes. We’ve been in contact with a gang called the Billy Boys.” Thomas licks his lips and continues. “They’re the ones who killed Bonnie Gold. Billy Boys fucking tied him to a cross and shot him.”

Bang! The memory of a gunshot rings through my head and the image of Bonnie’s corpse takes form. My body goes stiff and my cold hands grip the railing.

“Jesus Christ… " I murmur with dread. "Have they no morals? Is this all just to get to you? Thomas…”

His icy blue eyes creep over to mine, analyzing me. “You think I don’t feel guilt?”

“I’m saying… When will enough be enough for you?” I gasp. “Your company, your empire, has grown most impressively despite the losses in America. History shows that every civilization eventually experiences its downfall. You need to know when enough is enough!” 

Thomas’ jaw tightens and he takes a step back, pointing a finger at me. “I had you bring me here to discuss matters with your uncle so that I might handle them. Not to hear about how everything I do is wrong.”

My face stays straight and my stare hardens. “I never said that. And believe me, Edmund Colon will say these exact same words when he hears of what you’re going through.” 

The ship docks and I immediately lead Dílis off. Lord, I am already losing patience. Just pay attention and get Thomas to the meeting. Settle things out and then I can get back to work.

Thomas hails a cab and when I ask for Uncle Colon’s address the driver gives me a double-take. Even here it’s not a normal request to be driven to a gangster’s home. But he agrees and in no less than twenty minutes we’re riding through misty green meadows and over frozen streams. Thomas and I stay quiet the whole time and the only noise comes from Dílis’ small whines. Soon the car approaches Uncle Colon’s road and the sight of the cozy stone home makes me relax by a fraction. With its trimmed fence and many bushes. Even the guards don’t bother me. The handful of men standing watch outside recognize me and give friendly waves as I step out of the car.

Thomas, however, is not eased at all about their company. He keeps fingering his cap and running his hand over his jacket where his gun is most likely concealed. I snap him out of it by taking his hand and leading him and Dílis around to the barn. We step inside out of the mist and I hear metal clanking in the distance. I poke my head around a corner and spot Uncle Colon hunched over a beaten up Ford truck. His rolled up sleeves allow for a view of the Celtic cross tattooed to his wrist, just like my necklace. His worn work clothes are a steep difference compared to Thomas' overdressed appearance.

Arf!

At the sound of Dílis’ noise my uncle looks over his shoulder and gets a wide grin.

“Ah, Verena! How’s the cutting?” Uncle Colon greets as he wrings his hands on a grease towel.

“As good as it can when the world’s this dark,” I smile and we both hug. “Good to see you, Uncle Colon!”

Dílis doesn’t hesitate to begin smelling his shoes. “Who is this handsome beast?”

“This is Dílis,” I introduce.

Uncle Colon gets a wise gleam in his eye. “Ah, wise choice. He does look very loyal.” He gets the towel down and reaches for a glass of water. “Have you heard any word from Alfie?”

My smile fades. “I’m afraid Mr. Solomons has been dead for some time now, Uncle Colon.”

The older man’s eyes soften. “I’m so sorry to hear that. It appears our estranged relationship will go on unmended.” His eyes travel past me and his gaze sharpens. “I see you brought someone. This is your boss, then?”

I step aside and gesture to my colleague. “This is Thomas-”

“Thomas Shelby, of Shelby Company Limited,” Uncle Colon asserts, staring him square on. “Anyone who’s anyone here knows about you.”

Thomas stays quiet the whole time, not showing too much gruffness but not exactly appearing overly friendly either. He never moves his eyes away from my uncle.

“He’s the one who’s requested an audience with you,” I remind him.

Uncle Colon nods, staring at Thomas, and goes to pull a tarp over his project. “Alright, then. This banjaxed car can wait a moment or two. Go on in, Verena. Help yourself to a drink.”

Don’t mind if I do. I nudge Dílis forward and walk back out into the damp pasture towards the house’s warm glow. My end of today’s job is done. It’s up to Thomas now to strike an understanding with my own familie.

General POV

The rugged Irishman leads Thomas into another room in the barn. This one appears less dirty and more for business purposes. How can Thomas tell? Because of the waiting cases of empty whiskey bottles. Somewhere in here is Edmund Colon’s own small distillery. Thomas should respect it as if it were his own.

So this is the man who’s always stood behind Verena. The connection to the White Hand. At a glance Thomas thinks he could pass for any other Irishman. A few inches taller than he is, calculating hazel eyes, and a worn face with a faint beard matching the salt and pepper hair tucked under his flat cap. No dapper suit or accessories. His clothing consists of simple muck boots, work trousers, suspenders, undershirt and coat. One could say he appears as a wise friend.

This Mr. Colon is part of Verena’s family, there’s no doubt about it. She shares his bluntness and sense of tradition. If only Thomas wasn’t equally blunt when he paid her. His words are coming back to haunt him. Now he’s whoring away his shame to her while she earns the paycheck.

“Four years ago you got a taste of American cars,” Colon gloats as he pours them each a drink. “Did you enjoy our gift?”

“Yes. The Hudson still works splendidly. It’s one of my brother’s favorites.” They each take a seat on some barrels and Thomas looks up again. “Mr. Solomons is alive and well, Mr. Colon. Verena doesn’t know.”

Colon takes a deep breath and swirls the whiskey in his cup. “Sometimes a dead man is a free man in this world. Give him my regards, if you wouldn’t mind.” He gets a distant look and states: “I love my country, Mr. Shelby. Ireland is a true beauty. But you English always look at us the wrong way.” His hazel eyes flash up to inspect Thomas. “You Peaky Blinders certainly have made a name for yourselves.”

“If you know who we are-” The Brummie gangster starts to explain.

“Mr. Shelby, I don’t care if you’re Gypsy, Catholic, or Jewish. The only reason you’re still breathing is because my informants keep me updated on one of your employees.” Colon points in the direction he just sent Verena and then points to himself. “My niece. Right out there. She trusts you. That got me thinking. You are not members of the Crown, nor am I a member of the IRA. We are simply two men trying to do business for the good of our families. So let us have it remain that way.”

Thomas replays his words and it clicks that now he’s getting somewhere. Just like Verena, any of Colon’s decisions are going to be based on family. 

“My cousin informed me of some men passing through Belfast,” Thomas expresses, taking a drink of the familiar whiskey. “Those one’s called Billy Boys.”

Colon lightly pounds the wall. “Them damn Billy Boys. Thinking they can walk through my streets all high and grand. What trouble did they give you, eh?”

“They’re trying to snuff us out.”

The Irishman lets out a laugh and raises his glass. “Join the club. How’s about we make a deal? I keep away any more mishaps from affecting your trade routes through Belfast, and you kill Jimmy McCavern.”

This man works fast. Thomas can already tell he’s read his character but the question is why is Colon already so accepting? Is it because of Verena’s trust in him?

“That isn’t a fair trade, Mr. Colon. We both want him dead.”

“Yes. But it gives you better motivation. You deal with him and it will prove to me if I should help you. Prove to me that the Shelbys are all they're made out to be.” Colon polishes off the rest of his liquor. “Oh, a fair warning. We do not control the Titanic folk, Mr. Shelby. We keep to ourselves. If they cause trouble it will not be the White Hand’s problem.”

“Very well.”

Thomas takes that as his que of dismissal and stands up, dusting off his jacket. He nearly reaches the end of the room when Mr. Colon speaks again.

“One final thought, Mr. Shelby.” Thomas hears his boots creak closer and closer until Colon puts a firm hand on his shoulder. “You know, when I married my dear Eleanor I thought the guns and fights would leave us alone. But you can’t have both, Thomas Shelby. One or the other, they cannot coexist. From what I’ve been told you found this out the hard way. Your first wife-”

Thomas flinches. “Do not bring my late wife into this.”

“The Hell I will,” Colon growls. “You’re a chaser. This is the life you made for yourself, Shelby. Do not drag my niece into it too. No bullet will be carved with her name.”

The Brummie swallows. “Verena chose to-”

“Malarkey! First you make her think she owes you. Then she falls in love with you.” Colon holds up his wrist with the tattoo. “I am a religious man, Mr. Shelby. But if you break her heart… Another dead man is no skin off my nose. Have I made myself clear?”

His other hand reaches for a pistol under his jacket, never breaking eye contact, and Thomas knows exactly what he’s thinking. It’s the same process he goes through when scum politicians and aristocrats turn their noses up at his own family. He never wanted to cause Verena pain. It just… fell out of place. But there is no denying now that he will do what it takes to support her family. 

Thomas holds out a hand and the two men shake. “Very.”

Verena’s POV

It’s sad to see how the house has gotten so cluttered. Instead of a mobster’s home it looks like a hunting cabin. I remember when I was younger it was always spotless, with fresh flowers placed around during springtime. Aunt Eleanor’s touch has since been fading away. Part of this reminds me of Vinegar Hill back home. More Celtic crosses, a faded Bible placed on the mantel, and some of vader’s gifted delft pottery. 

Dílis has taken the liberty to lay in front of the warm fireplace. I set down my glass and look up at the ticking grandfather clock. It’s been an hour. How long are they going to talk? Is Thomas really so stubborn to ignore what offer Uncle Colon might have? If he knows anything about the men who killed Bonnie then he should not hesitate. 

I think back to Michael’s words. This is by far the time to not hesitate. Now is the time for action, to show that Thomas is no spent force. Franz was right. Trouble is brewing and I am not going to let myself be caught in it.

Creak.

The back door swings open and Uncle Colon steps in, stomping the mud off his boots. 

“I left your boss outside to wait.” He points to where he just came from. “Verena. That man. He is just as I’ve been told. Stubborn, scheming, arrogant. Yet you still give yourself to him.”

My jaw drops. “I do not-”

“I’m not talking about virginity. I’m talking about time. For over ten years you’ve served this man. And for what?” He taps the side of his head. “That’s the question you need to answer, Verena.”

If I didn’t know better I’d say his lecture is tinged with pity. Lord knows I’m one of the oddballs in my familie as far as courtship goes but I think I’ve done enough mental bashing to myself by now. Of all people I’d hoped Uncle Colon might understand my position.

“I know.”

My uncle takes my hand as if to say he means no harm. “You’re a wise lass. I know you will do as God guides you. But make sure you remember to value your time, Verena. As your Aunt Eleanor would say, time’s as precious as endless fortunes of gold.”

I respond with a bittersweet smile. “Yes. I understand.”

“Good. ‘S been good to see you, lass.” He smiles down at my dog, who’s now up and alert. “You take care of her now, Dílis. Eh?” 

He leans in for a hug goodbye and I lead Dílis back to the door. Thomas is already waiting in the car. 

“Visit your crazy uncle more often, eh? Slán.”

His Irish phrase brings a smile to my face and I wave goodbye before climbing into the car next to Thomas and Dílis.

“Tot ziens, Uncle Colon. Thanks a million.”

The driver revs the engine and begins driving down the muddy road. As the cottage gets further and further behind us Thomas makes no move to speak. Did Uncle Colon have news for him? Did they accomplish anything?

“What did you think of my uncle?” I outright ask in a laid-back tone. “He’s nice, isn’t he?��

“That’s one way to put it.” Thomas pauses, still staring ahead. “You’ve said family is everything to you… Never thought it was this deep.”

“What do you think I first thought when I first saw how your familie runs itself?”

@sherbitdibdab @meadows5

[boarloved-art]

ig ooomfie said i should draw xuanli and i kinda went crazy abt them whoopsydoodle

[hers-underwraps]

Just a Dad and his two favourite adopted kids 🤍

[ceramicbeetle]

i kind of hate to say it because i feel like i'll get pushback for it,,, but i kind of feel like if you're going to be making informational posts about autism online you do need to be reading actual autism research and literature. at least some of the times. like you can't just make things up and then present them as fact.

[lloydfrontera]

if i think too long about the ending making lloyd leave the home he worked so hard to save behind along with the new found family he sacrificed his life for so he can move to a place he has no emotional connection to where he only knows two people (one of which is actually following him from the aforementioned home) in order to make him get a standard "have a wife and children" 'happy' ending i start wanting to bite people not gonna lie

[sskk-manifesto]

Ep 5!!!

[adriancatrin]

the difference between The Painted Lady and Sokka’s Master—what makes one so much more iconic than the other—is that The Painted Lady may as well be Imprisoned (season one), just done-up in Fire Nation attire. we learn nothing new about katara in that ep that we didn’t know from season one. and The Desert in season two CEMENTED katara as the heart of the group in a way that wasn’t even necessary to try to do again in season three.

Sokka’s Master, on the other hand, gives us a whole new look at sokka. Imprisoned and The Warriors of Kyoshi (in season one) are katara and sokka eps respectively, meant to give us a look into their characters and acquaint ourselves with them. season two is incredible because it assumes we already know the characters, and it lets us sit in them and enjoy the ride for amazing arcs through Story, above all else. but early season three brings back the Character episodes. the Headband, Painted Lady, Sokka’s Master, the Runaway (and as a bonus, unlike season one, we also get The Beach for the FN team). each main character gets their own re-establishing ep. great, cool, whatever—what about Sokka’s Master tho?

shhh patience lol i’m getting there. Painted Lady shows that katara is the same, she still cares about the lil guy(s), despite all else, just like she did in Imprisoned. she can’t leave desperate people behind.

but in The Warriors of Kyoshi, sokka thought he was the Shit, and had to have it proved to him that that wasn’t the case (god bless u suki). in Sokka’s Master, however, it’s the exact opposite. his arc at that point brought him to having nearly no faith in himself. Warriors of Kyoshi was about bringing sokka down to earth (being A MAN💪🏽 isn’t the end all be all), and Sokka’s Master is about bringing him back up (what does it mean to be a man? 🌈). it’s obviously a huge shame that the invasion ended up sitting him right back down again in his insecurities. but i imagine if Sokka’s Master had never happened, he wouldn’t have been able to bounce back post-Boiling-Rock, regardless of whether or not he’d successfully broken his dad (and suki) out. he needed the foundation of self-confidence to beat away the doubts later.

anyways, point is.. at least personally the Painted Lady ep has never stuck out to me as special, whereas Sokka’s Master is one of my fave eps of the show. and that’s not because i have it out for katara or anything and held sokka in especially high regard (Sokka’s Master is largely WHY i now hold sokka in high regard—but The Desert ep put katara in just as high a regard in my book, along w probs a dozen other eps that showcase her unique character). Sokka’s Master stands out because it shows us a new part of sokka, but the Painted Lady doesn’t show us anything new about katara. in a show that’s ultimately rather short, episodes that seem like clones the way Painted Lady & Imprisoned do end up feeling lackluster. idk. this isn’t to say i dislike the Painted Lady, i just wanted to get my thoughts out

[xoxo-ren-xoxo]

it's controversial to say this i guess but i genuinely believe last life was the least interesting life series season and youre all lying to me about enjoying it