#i promise my life is fine and normal today si just NOT sitting well mentally speaking

[elytrafemme]

gripping edge of desk. It's fine guys it's fine. i love plans changing i love this. i love that. i'm really normal i'm really so normal.

[hoewkeyesblue]

Not My Family

requested by: anon

“can you write shelby sis ( #105 & #113 angst list and #21 fluff list) being quite the troublemaker recently so everyone is upset with her and she tells the family that there's someone following her often but they don't believe her and just send her away. she gets attacked quite badly and stays with johnny dogs in his caravan (and he doesn't tell the family cause he's upset too) and when they see her again she doesn't want to talk to them cause they let her down? you can decide the end :)”

angst #105 “I thought you cared about me. someone who cares about someone else doesn’t let them down like you just did.” and #113 “I can’t look at you anymore.”

fluff #21 “I need a hug.”

pairing: shelby!reader x john shelby, shelby!reader x arthur shelby, shelby!reader x tommy shelby (no incest)

summary: once your brother told you that you had a family that would never let anything bad happen to you. when you grew up, you understood that thomas shelby was a motherfucking liar.

word count: 1, 239

warnings: angst, swearing, mentions of aggression and abuse, the word “fuck” is used a lot in here.

author’s note: I wanted this oneshot to be awesome because I loved the prompt, I really did!!! thank you for requesting this, thank you! and also thanks to my best friend who’s helping me every day with my writing. love you, boo.

“I told them”, your voice was full of pain and resentment. “I told them there was someone following me, but they didn’t listen. They never listen to me”, you hissed under your heavy breath.

“I think you may have some broken ribs, Y/N. I should take you to a hospital”, Johnny said, clearly worried. You denied.

“If I go to the hospital, people will see. People will talk and they will come, I don’t wanna see those bastards right now. I don’t know if I want to see them ever again, to be honest”, you tried to look strong but it was difficult. Really difficult.

Everything was hurting; your legs, your torso, your head. You could still feel the warmth of the blood running through your hair, there’s probably a concussion. You felt off, you felt sad, but mostly, you felt angry.

“You could die”, he tried but were instantly interrupted by you.

“If it’s my time to die, so be it”, now your voice was lower, cracking a bit. “Thank you for taking care of me, Johnny.”

“Someone has to.”

***

Days passed by and you were getting better. Physically, at least; mentally, you were only getting sadder. Every day you would close your eyes and suddenly you were back at that night, being spanked, touched in ways that made you throw up just for thinking about.

Every day you would remember how you told your brothers countless times that someone was following, watching you. Every day you remembered they didn’t listen.

Your heart ached every time you thought about it.

“No one will ever hurt you, Y/N”, that’s what Tommy said when you were younger. “There are bad people that will try, but there’s us, your family, that won’t let them.”

Fucking liar.

“Y/N”, Johnny greeted as entering the caravan. “‘Was with the boys today, they’re convinced that you’re dead”, he told and you opened a wicked smile.

“Did you tell them?”

“Of course not. I think they deserve to think that for a while, at least until you get better”, he explained. “How’s your head today, by the way?”

“Still hurts a little, but it’s fine”, you tranquilized. “I guess I won’t be coming back home after. Maybe I should go to America, what do you think?”

He never had the chance to respond, because in a split second, Tommy was there.

***

“What the hell, Y/N?”, Arthur screamed as soon as he entered Tommy’s house. You were sitting on the sofa, eyes on your hands. “We fucking thought you were dead! Fucking dead!”

“Well, I almost was!”, you screamed back, standing up to impose yourself but regretting it when you felt dizzy because of the agonizing pain. You sat again, but added: “And that’s on you, all of you! Fucking bastards!”

“How is that our fault? We didn’t put a fucking gun in your head and told you to stay in the fucking caravan instead of going to the bloody hospital!”, now John was screaming.

Tommy, of course, didn’t say a word.

Maybe he didn’t care enough to do so.

“You put a gun in my head when I told you what was happening and you decided to ignore it. That’s what you did, you fucking ignored me!”

“I’m sorry if you’re always lying and fucking around, none of us could possibly imagine that you were being serious”, his voice was filled with irony and anger.

“I was being dead serious, John, don’t put it on me.”

You were exhausted, your hands were shaking and you felt like throwing up again. You did throw up every single day since the unfortunate event happened. Soon there were tears running down your cheeks and you hugged yourself, feeling alone.

“I thought you cared about me. Someone who cares about someone else doesn’t let them down like you did”, you cried out. The room was now in silence, the only sound you could hear was your own sobs.

Arthur was the first one to approach; he kneeled in front of you and tried to hold your hand, but you didn’t accept the gesture.

“Y/N...”, he hesitated. You knew he regretted everything, but it was too late now. “Look at me.”

“I’m sorry”, they could hear your hurt in your voice. “I can’t look at you anymore.”

A thunderous noise made you jump in your place and you looked up to see John, his face red, throwing everything off a table.

“Fuck!”, he yelled.

Tommy seemed tired of everything that was happening and that’s what hurt you the most. He stood up and walked in your direction, saying in a bittersweet tone: “We’re your family, we need each other. You can’t be mad with us forever.”

“You’re not my fucking family”, you spat. “Once you told me my family would never let anything bad happen to me, remember?”

“If we’re not your fucking family”, he sounded so cold, principally when added: “Go home. And only come back when you change your mind.”

You stood up again, ignoring the pain you felt and looking into his eyes while saying: “Fuck off, Thomas Shelby.”

***

You were incredibly drunk.

You knew you should keep alcohol away for a while, but you needed to forget what happened that afternoon. Fucking Shelbys.

Normally you’d be listening to some music, but your head still hurt a lot, so you decided not to.

That was it.

Your new life; you and whiskey.

“Fucking good life”, you said to yourself, laughing out loud. “Who needs family, eh?”

You swear you could hear a knock on your door but ignored it while looking at yourself in the mirror. The whiskey’s bottle in your hand, the messy hair, the purple marks on your face, arms, and legs.

“Fucking family”, you muttered again.

Knock, knock.

“For fuck's sake”, you walked to the door and opened it to see John and Arthur, looking lost and guilty as fuck. You groaned, “What are you doing here? Get lost!”

“We’re here to apologize”, John murmured.

“What is that now?”, your voice was bitter.

“We don’t agree with Thomas and... we decided to come here and apologize, Y/N. Properly”, it was Arthur’s time to speak. You could see their eyes examining your bruises.

“Come in”, you muttered, lying on the sofa.

Arthur closed the door and soon enough they were sitting on the same sofa as you; John on your right, Arthur on your left.

“We did this to you”, John started while Arthur nodded in agreement. “We didn’t listen to you and we’re really sorry. I only wish we could go back in time and...”

“Cut the bullshit”, you blurted. “There’s no going back, John. Let’s stick with the present, shall we?”, you didn’t notice, but you were crying again. Maybe the alcohol had cut off your control over your body.

“Fuck, Y/N...”, Arthur hissed.

“Please, forgive us. I’ll ask some man to guard your front door and if you need anything, anytime, you can call me and I’ll be there. I promise”, John seemed like he was going to fall apart.

You were his little sister, he couldn’t forgive himself.

“We promise!”, Arthur corrected. “What can we do for you? Just tell us. Anything. If you want me to go to Tommy’s and beat his ass I swear to God I’ll-”

A little, soft smile appeared on your face amongst the tears.

“I just need a hug, boys.”

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

blinders taglist

@haphazardhufflepuff @iwillboilyourteeth

tommy shelby taglist

@captivatedbycillianmurphy @kassandra-of-troy

[naromoreau]

Hooked on you

Pairing: Sharky Boshaw x F! Dep

Rating:Nsfw, angst and fluff and smut

I'm dedicating this to the absolutely awesome @leavenopathuntaken for encouraging me with her amazing art and words.

Thanks to @absurdwanderlust and @deputyshitlordsantana for encouraging this shit.

__________________________

Well fuck. Of course all had ended tits up. Not that he’d other expectations, ‘cuz when it came to consider a scenario involving him and a chick like Dep, things just-- just didn’t work out. And it hurt. Worst than the well known kick in the nuts. Hell, he’d take an extra ration of those just so, so- Fuck. Just to get out of that emotional dry spell.

He ain't an idiot. There’d been something bouncing back and forth. Small, real smooth hints that made his heart thud and his mind spin at night when the memories wheeled around. But outta the blue, one day she just-- slow fade him. Nothing too obvious. Just the same show he already knew, the same sad song he’d already danced. Maybe he’s just overthinking it.

No. The little voice inside his head has it right. She’d been joshing with him, that’s all. Just pure teasing between friends and he’d swallowed hook, line and sinker. Like a complete moron.

It’s a matter of time now. I mean, it may be the end of the world or whatever but-- She’s gonna find someone. ‘Cuz she’s hella pretty and, and, not that he’d check her out or nothing, but yeah. She’s gonna find someone. And the thought just tastes wrong.

Why he had to fall for her like that? He ain’t a fucking teenager to keep believing that when push came to shove, she’d stay or say what he craved to hear. And fucking Christ in heaven, this time he’d been hit hard. Shovel on the head kinda hard.

“Thanks for coming with me, man,” she says, severing his brooding thoughts.

Even looking at her is downright painful, the dimples of that smile making his stomach twist in knots, and those eyes, man. Sparkling something that Sharky is never sure to grasp entirely. “It’s ‘aight, shorty, I got you.”

“I know  you ain’t a fan of the Wolf’s Den, so I really appreciate it.”

He ain’t a fan of anyone who throws glimmering mistrust in Dep’s direction, not after watch her bleed in his arms, clumps of sweaty wayward hair sticking to dusty cheeks, as the fear rends his heart to shreds. Not when it’d been real easy for her to just kick everyone to the curb and run away. It’s rude and just outright disrespectful. “Nah, it's cool dude, I can deal with the claustrophobia for a bit,” he lies.

She chuckles with her eyes riveted on the road, but the frayed smile tells Sharky she’s far from feeling fine.

“Dep?”

“Mmm?”

“Uh, I know it’s not my business but uh, you ok?”

White-knuckled grip at the wheel before she cracks a lopsided grin in his direction. “Sorta.”

He ain’t sure if it means he should or could pry or pester her further, or if she’s politely telling him to fuck off. So he shuts his mouth. Self-preservation at its finest.

“I mean yeah,” she continues after a few seconds, but her voice is all wavering now. It makes Sharky uneasy, “but I haven't seen Staci since I got him out of Jacob’s bunker and I don't know, I guess-- I guess I’m a little rattled to see him. It could’ve been me y’know?”

“Don’t say that, man.” Never say that, he wants to say, but his voice is harsh and--. He swallows, thick. Better to chuck that idea out the passenger window, ‘cuz thinking about a reality without Dep is just-- better not to amble in that direction.

The car skids to a stop outside Wolf’s Den, and they hop off making their way inside. He nods at Wheaty on the entrance. That guy is promising, real potential right there, and maybe he can stop by to check on his vinyl collection while Dep’s busy visiting her friend.

At his side, she fidgets, frowning and giving small exhalations as if she were preparing to run a marathon. Sharky cocks a brow. He’d never seen her looking so tense, not even after he rescued her from that flossy motherfucker’s bunker.

“Hey, chica, uh, want me to stick ‘round?” Sharky almost reaches his hand to brush the hunched line of her shoulders, closing his fist to thwart his impulse, ‘cuz touchy-feely is not a line of action he recommends to himself. Not now. Probably not later also.

“No, it’s ok. I just-- I’ll be fine.” She gives a gingerly squeeze to his arm and his brain takes it as a cue to send butterflies fluttering down in his gut. Out-and-out juvenile.

He gulpes and smiles in a silent acquiescing, trudging away from her, every line and wrinkle on his face twisting in flat-out dejection.

He doesn’t snatch his eyes away from the threshold until her footfalls fade in metallic echoes.

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

He does a mental inventory of all the goodies Wheaty allows him to take back to his trailer park. Lotsa fun stuff to blast while melting peggies and swaying his fuckin’ pantless ass just to show them Seeds they can’t take him down. It’s been well past an hour and he juggles with the vinyls in his arms meandering through narrow corridors, skirting piles of supplies cluttering up on the floor, trying to reach the room Eli always assigns to them when they’re in the premises.

The darkness is uninviting, scrambling his sense of direction and time. And he’s hungry and hopes Tammy doesn’t appear around a corner ‘cuz she ain’t that nice. Then a muffled sob. A strained groan. Sharky joggles to the room closer with the door ajar.  Somebody is losing their shit and he can’t blame them. He’d be close to if it wasn’t for-- Whatever. But help your neighbor and all that shit, even though he ain’t the most adequate candidate for that stuff. He’s more than aware of that. When he gets real close, he sets apart two distinct pitches, and his heart leap to his throat recognizing one as Dep’s.

He should’ve taken a step back and get the hell outta there, ‘cuz it ain’t gentlemanlike to go snooping around in other people's business but Dep is there. And he needs to know she’s fine. He peers through the slight opening watching Pratt crying all over Dep’s shoulder, hands clinging to her waist borderline hysteric. He really feels bad for the guy, having spent a good chunk of a month tucked away in Jacob Seed’s personal rendition of hell.

But in the flick of a second his breath freezes in his lungs, the buzz of his blood roaring in his ears. ‘Cuz Pratt is kissing Dep and as much as it’s gut-wrenching to see he can’t tear his eyes away. Like a fucking masochist. Every swipe of his tongue and every second of shared breath stings deeper and deeper, until it’s too much and he forces his legs to unnail and wonkily take him someplace else. Anywhere but there. An ache rises under his breastbone, eyes chockfull with tears, arms tingling and dropping his cargo with a loud clunk on the floor. Breathe. Miraculously he reaches the familiar room with bed bunks and closes the door for good measure.

What the fuck had he been hoping for, really?

Like she’d just turn and say hey man, actually I’m into you? Real fucking stellar. Of course that Pratt fella had the upper hand. He has a real job and not a shady piss business, probably not one forced check-in at County Jail and they both even click in the age department. Not that he thought of himself as old but she’s almost twelve years his junior, not that that shit matters when he’s a complete loser in every aspect of that pathetic thing he dares to call life. He climbs to the upper bunk, rubbing his eyes with the heel of his hand, and just maxes out in seething silence. ‘Cuz it ain’t fair to her but that jealousy thing man, it seeps and twinges and soaks him all, making him clench his jaw and grit his teeth.

Sundry feels whirl up inside him, heels diggin’ in the thin ass cot and fuck, there it is, that feeling bursting under the surface. Fuck. The need to set some shit on fire, like he usually does when he’s crashing down. Down, down.

“Shark?”

He should’ve jumped and run away, but he’s three feet above the ground and has great value for his bone’s integrity.

“‘Sup Dep?” There’s a flickering wave in his voice. Shaky. Unwanted, definitely not convenient tears stinging his lashes. He oughta nip them right in the bud ‘fore she sees them and yeah. That’s not--

“Hey, are you ok? I just- uh, just wanted to know if you wanted to go and eat something?”

Yeah, no thanks. Just to sit there and watch them both-- His stomach rolls over, tight and heavy as lead. “I’ll pass, uh, not, not really hungry today, sh- man.”

Shorty. Sounds fucking outta place. Something born out of his shy-ass attempt to say more. Needing more but ending with less. And he’s waiting for her to jerk her hand in that particular, very Dep like way to say good riddance, you’re not worth my time. But she stays.

His stomach growls of hunger just then. Fucking traitor.

“So, uh, not hungry then?” She moves one pace closer to the bed bunk. Yeah. She's not falling into it.

“Nope.”

And she really needs to go, and leave him alone. Gnawing his misery. Regaining his breath that now is just scorching his lungs. And he doesn't see. Eyes closed under a warm forearm.

A gentle tug at the hem of his pants, makes him groan in his raw throat. “Shark,” she says with that mellow tinge, “what’s going on? could you just--?”

She won’t let that shit fly. ‘Cuz he knows her. ‘Cuz she’s Dep and Dep is a problem solver. He bites his lip. Blinking, once, twice. A blessed drag of his hoodie over sodden eyes, and he prays. Begs. That she just won’t notice.

“Uh, I’m, I’m kinda ragged up, Dep.”

“Seriously man, what’s going on? You’re starting to freak me out-- could you just-- come down here. Please.”

Dude, it’s cruel. ‘Cuz she really cares. It’s such an earnest pleading he finds his legs moving despite his own blockade. When was the last time someone acted like he mattered? Like they actually cared?

He’s down. And she’s sitting on the bunk studiously looking at the wall. Yeah. Allowing him the courtesy of pretend it’s all normal. ‘Cuz Dep ain’t stingy.

Sharky swallows. “So uh, here I am, what, uh, what do ya need, Dep?”

“You can just sit here, y’know? I don’t bite. What’s got into you?” She scoffs.

She gives something like a general glance in his direction. And he sits. ‘Cuz not doing it is just plain giving that’s something’s off. And things would be better if he just had a beer can in his hand.

“What happened,” she asks finally looking him in the eye.

His mouth goes dry. “I uh, I hit my foot with the uh, the pole of the bed.”

She gives a soft snort and let it pass. “I talked with Staci,” she says. Sharky would’ve prefer to being hit by the bat of a grimy peggie than trekking into that direction. “He’s in really bad shape, and I just-- God, Shark, you should’ve seen him, there’s no trace of the guy who used to steal my coffee in the mornings.”

He knows he should say something. But his words are swallowed by the yawning chasm in his stomach. He hums an agreement.

“And I just-- I was thinking, y’know? I’m barely holding my sanity here and it’s all because of y’all.”

She rubs a hand across his. The column of her neck cranes, cranes ‘til those green eyes pierce into quicksilver ones and he can’t hack that shudder. A wild one. She reaches an arm and runs experienced fingers along his jaw. That warm, indistinct thing curls in his chest. Adam’s apple bobbing with a hard gulp.

He sifts her face. Pent-up reactions lingering in the moment. Hooded eyes, tugged up lips. Suspended. She takes a deep breath and is the last thing Sharky can hear before--

She plunges.

Her lips are pressed to his, his fizz of thoughts lost in one stroke. He’s not expecting it when she opens her mouth. Breath goes shallow but his tongue dips, dips up and down. Circling. Greedy. Eyes closed, it’s too perfect to last. An unwanted flash before his eyes. Black beard, tan skin. Not his. Not him. Fuck.

He pushes her off.

“What the fuck Dep?” He hates it. Hates himself. He should just take it and be happy with it. He can’t. Giveaway blur on his eyes. “Ain’t you with Pratt or somethin’?”

“What?”

A sharp blow. More like a, like a real keen strike. Right to the face. But he’s right. And now he’s not sure if he should say it but he will ‘cuz Sharky’s mouth has a mind of its own.

“C’mon Dep, I uh, I saw you back there, I mean it’s cool, y’know? Don’t sweat it, but I’m uh, I’m not into steppin’ into another dude’s territory.”

He’s sure he’s doing right. Being a gentleman and all that shit. ‘Cuz he’s not that much of a fuckin’ asshole. No matter how much he wants it. Jump in and dive.

“You saw it?”

Her hand is gone. Flat, emotionless voice reverberating in the tiny space.

“Yeah.”

“And-- did you happen to hear what happened after that?”

“Uh, nope. I mean it’s not my business to be skulkin’ around to listen convos--”

“But it’s your business to take fuckin’ conclusions without all the information?”

“Uh--” Wordless, lame-ass response. Not much to say to not look like, like a goddamn idiot.

The line of her shoulders ease down, and she lets out a deep, heavy sigh. “It’s not what you think, Shark,” she says and he clings to that believe so he bites his lip, to not screw up his chances. “He was just-- It wasn’t nothing romantic y’know? I’m the first fuckin’ person he sees that actually knows him from before all this clusterfuck started.” She shakes her head, a crink around her mouth. Sad, gloomy smile. “It  wasn’t as much as a kiss, as uh, I don’t know-- cling to a lifeline I guess.”

She smiles, a hand finding his cheek again. He actually leans into it now, fears now flaky as she scoots closer. Warm thigh against his. “Y’know? There’s a-- a common practice in the department,” she says, thumb rubbing circles on his stubble, and he’s doing everything he can not to sigh like a fuckin’ damsel, “to always focus on the things you care right? Your family, your pet, whatever. You know who I think of every morning?”

He’s paying attention. For the first time he is. Brain nailed to her train of thoughts. “B-Baby Carmina?” he says, voice thick with things he doesn’t comprehend still.

She laughs. Clear, ringing bells kinda clear. “I love my goddaughter but uh, I think you’re playing dumb, dude.”

His pulse flutters. Quick. Escalating into speedily beats, palms damp. He’s all jittery and dizzy, ‘cuz she’s looking at him, sporting a vexing grin. “Uh, Dep? My chick radar is kinda rusty y’know but I’m-- I’m picking some signals here? Just uh, just tell me what to do.” The words roll in a whisper, mouth a dry mess.

“I’ll show you.”

She speaks with a sense of finality just to kiss him as soon as the last vocal fades in the air. Soft lips against his chapped ones. Soon her tongue follows, sweeping along every nook and cranny. Warm and teasing, wheedling low moans from him with every push.

He holds her. Closer. Tighter. It takes him a moment to daze off and click back. This. This right here. All he’d ever wanted. Fuck, it feels good.

He runs his hands down, fighting gravity to not fall back. ‘Cuz they’re sitting on a friggin bunk and he ain’t sure she wants to--

Fuck, she does.

Her hand slips past the waistband of his pants, under his threadbare boxers. Erection now throbbing between her fingers. He pulls her down, arms around her waist.

They fall in a panting heap. Muscles and curves pressing him right where they should be. Like a fucking puzzle. A perfect puzzle.

She slides off him for an instant, and he complains. A groan. But she smiles, shedding off her clothes and breath catches in his chest. He’s burning. Sweating like a pig in the summer. His threads are gone in a heartbeat, not thinkin’ about the beer gut he has come to terms with, or the other fuckton of things that could sour this moment.

“You sure ‘bout this, Shorty?” He asks, ‘cuz he has manners and, and not that his pulsing cock is pressing between her thighs already.

She dips down. Kisses him again. Slowly, sweetly, taking her time. “Are you?”

“You really askin’ me that question, amigo?” he says breathless, both hands making an arrow direct to his dick.

But it's not just that. He’d never wanted anyone like this. Not just a fuck. Not just the feeling of being spent but hollow. He needs the aftermath more than he needs the sex.

“Look, gotta be real honest with you, shorty ,” he says, feelings finally frothin’ out from deep-six within him, “‘cuz you uh, need to know ‘fore all gets weird. I just, I think I love you man.”

He doesn't know what he’s expecting from Dep. Cool, controlled Dep now staring at him, bare and on top of him. What a fuckin’ sight.

“I love you too Sharky.”

Certainly not that. Clean, direct answer, no shades or ifs. It feels weird. Like watching a familiar movie with a different ending.  A happy one. He smiles, white teeth through thin lips.

He shifts his body, mouth now roving over her collarbone and she arches. Soon he’s all over her nipples. Okay. He’s good at this. This is where he excels.

He sucks her breasts, touching the warmth of her skin, reaching to every place he can find. The drag of his lips is making her whimper, and his downstairs complain. Twitching. Impatient.

“Fuck, Shark,” she says dreamily, fingers squeezing his cock and lining him up to her entrance.

Slowly, she takes him in. Maddening tightness, slick and hot engulfing him one inch at a time. She eases down on his dick and he’s just about to lose his cool ‘cuz, ‘cuz he’s balls deep inside her.

“Oh, shit, shit, Dep, fuck,” he whines. He grips the side of her thighs, groaning deep at the back of his throat.

She hums, lazy smile tagging a long with a roll of her hips. Oh shit. It’s taking him a goddamn effort not to ram artlessly and let go. But he ain’t a selfish ass.

“You feel so good, Sharky,” she says, drawled words all low and throaty.

That’s his name, that’s his fuckin’ name right there. “Shit, babe, you’re the one to talk.”

Air is suddenly not reaching his lungs. He’s high of her, trying to find his pace, amidst overwhelming sensations. He rocks his hips, steady movements among the gut-twisting little moans she’s giving. At least he’s doin’ it right.

Dep’s bottom lip disappears in her mouth, and heat pools in his groin when her rhythm increases. There’s a blush spreading on her cheeks and the bridge of her nose when he thrust harder to meet her downstrokes.

“Fuck, Shark, yes!”

His fingers dig in her hips to find leverage, sinking heels on the mattress to rock faster, relishing the awe on her face and the blurry haze on her eyes. God, he loves seeing her like this. He’s not sure how long he can take it, his heart already pounding in his ears, head spinning under the delicious friction in every pounding. But sure as fuck he’ll try. She lunges forward, knees burrowed in the cot at the sides of his thighs and palms curled around his shoulders, regaining control, now actually fucking him into the mattress.

“Jesus, fuck, Dep--” he manages to stutter, “y’gonna be the death of me y’know?” He means it and it’d be a fuckin’ good way to go west.

She licks her lips, and he catches a faint smirk and pupils blow wide before he surges to meet her, hand cradling her head. Teeth clicking, tongues swirling desperately, steamy breaths puffing while he’s sure he’s about to break. His mouth trails off, going down the rim of her jaw, dappling her skin with bruises through hard sucks.

The pressure is unbearable, and he’s close, so damn close, feeling the sparks of searing hotness flaring up from his balls, fanning out ‘til his pelvis and his spine seem about to explode.

“I can’t- fuck, Dep, I can’t.”

She kisses him again as an answer, crying out the moment he angles his hips. The hug of her walls is too much, clenching around his cock, pushing him to the final inches of his climax.

“Dep, I’m ‘bout to--” He tries to pull off, but she keeps him pinned in place.

And if he needs more assurance, she roots her hips down, eyes locked on his. “It’s ok, Sharky, I want you to.”

And he loses it. Fucking Christ, he loses it.

He pulls her down, groaning, burying a final, heavy sigh against her skin. His body tenses, mind-wrecking spasms running along his dick and his balls and he’s dazzled by the popping lights under his lids. Sharky holds her, peppering her face with light kisses as the throbbing fades and the spurts stop, the buzz in his ears lowering to zero.

“That was good,” she says playing with a curl of his hair, draped on him.

“Fuckin-A, babe.” His words are still catching in his throat, a hand placed on her lower back.

He wallows in the moment. Just feeling, not thinking. Trying not to be surpassed by the little things he has never appreciated after the fact. ‘Cuz it wasn’t with her. Yeah. Soft breathing, quick heartbeat thrumming against his chest, the way her skin shines under a thin sheet of sweat. And sweet Jesus, that lavender scent.

“So uh, this means we’re like--together? As in, as in a couple kinda together?” He finally asks. He ain’t bad reading signals but now, he needs the assurance. The certainty. He needs the words leaving her mouth, one hooked to the other.

“Nah, you’re just hot and I wanted to jump your bones,” she says with a grin, “of course it means we’re together, as in a couple kinda together, you big oaf!”

Sharky finally relaxes, feeling the strain of the task and the raw emotions soaking in his bones. “Y’know shorty? Don’t get take this the wrong way but uh, I’m actually kinda beat down, so Imma take a shut eye real quick, ‘mkay?” And then he quickly adds, “please, don’t go.”

She laughs, pulling the blanket over them both and curls against him, warm and comfortable snuggled against him. “You don’t need to apologize, Shark and I’m not going anywhere”

He nuzzles the strands of hair splayed on her shoulder and dozes off to the soft rhythm of her breathing, coming to terms with the awesome reality tickling under his fingers.

[bob-giovanni]

I’ll Cover You - Part 13

@faith-lynn9 @collette04 @simons-savior86 @simons-thirst-squad @negans-castleCharacters: Simon X OFC

Summary: Emily meets Sherry. Afterwards, Emily and Simon take another big step in their relationship.

Warnings: Fluff, Cursing

Notes: Sorry it’s been taking me so long to get these stories posted. I’ve been in a bit of a funk lately. I’m taking a couple of mental health days from work this week so hopefully that’ll help me recharge my batteries and get back to normal.

Emily was sitting at the bar at Amara’s chewing her nails. She only ever did that when she was nervous. And right now she was almost shaking she was so nervous. She was going to meet Sherry today, Simon’s ex-wife. She’d had a little bit of a breakdown earlier in the week. Simon sat her down to give her a little pep talk because he knew how nervous Emily was. “Listen to me, ok? Sherry can be intimidating but she’s all bark and no bite. I don’t think she’s gonna do anything to try and upset you but if she does just take a couple of deep breaths and keep your cool. Remember, this about Amara. That’s the only reason she wants to meet you. I know you care about her so I know you’ll be just fine.” Emily kept replaying those words over and over again in her head. Just as she started to calm down a bit, the door to the club opened and in walked a very pregnant Sherry. She was even more beautiful than the picture Simon had shown her. She felt so inferior. “Simon definitely downgraded getting with me.” She thought to herself.

Emily knew that her anxiety was getting the best of her now. She pushed the negative thoughts from her head and finished the rest of her beer before hopping off the stool and heading over to the booth Sherry was sitting in. Emily approached slowly and with a slight smile, though Sherry didn’t see because she was looking at a menu. “Hi.” Emily said softly. Sherry looked up quickly. “Hey, hun. Listen, no offense, but I’m just not in the mood for small talk right now. Can I just get a chicken Caesar salad and a glass of ice water?” Emily furrowed her eyebrows. “Umm, I’m sorry?” Sherry put the menu down and looked up at Emily. “That’s what I want. Ya know, my order?” It took Emily a second until she realized what was happening. “Oh, no, I’m sorry. I don’t work here. Um…I’m Emily.” Sherry quirked and eyebrow and sat back, looking Emily up and down. “You’re Emily?” She said, almost in disbelief. Emily nodded. “May I sit?” Sherry crossed her arms and nodded towards the empty seat across from her. Emily slid into the booth and cleared her throat, figuring it was best if Sherry took the lead.

After a moment of awkward silence, Sherry finally spoke. “So, Emily…how old are you exactly?” Emily knew this question was going to come up so she wasn’t surprise. “I’m 21. I’ll be 22 in a couple of weeks.” “You do know that Simon is 40, right?” Emily nodded. “Yes, of course.” A waiter walked over to their table and Sherry gave him her order. Emily just ordered a water. “So what do you do for a living, Emily?” She couldn’t tell if Sherry was genuinely curious or if she was just trying to find things to judge her on. “I work at a veterinarian’s office.” Sherry nodded and took a sip of her water as the waiter placed her glass in front of her. “Do you do drugs?” Emily furrowed her brows and shook her head. “No, of course not.” “Do you smoke? Drink?” “I don’t smoke. I drink occasionally.” Sherry nodded and just stared at Emily for a moment as if she was unsure what to make of her.

“Look, I’m gonna be honest with you, Emily. When Simon told me he had a girlfriend I certainly didn’t picture someone like you.” “What do you mean ‘someone like me?’” Sherry sighed softly. “Well for one thing I thought you’d be older. I can’t say I’m thrilled about your age.” Emily crossed her arms and leaned forward to rest her elbows on the table. “I’m not sure what my age has to do with anything.” Sherry smiled in a condescending manner. “I’m sure you mean well, but I don’t like the idea of a twenty something trying to take my place in Amara’s life.” Emily shook her head. “I’m not trying to take your place. Not at all. I know what Amara is going through. My parents got divorced when I was her age. It sucks. And it’s weird. I mean, you’re with someone new, I’m with Simon, you’re having a baby. Sometimes you just need a friend to help you through these things. That’s all I’m trying to do is be her friend.”

Sherry thanked the waiter as he placed her salad down in front of her. Emily took a sip of her water and licked her lips. “The only thing I can do is promise you that I would never do anything to hurt Amara. I care about her. She’s almost like a little sister to me. I can definitely understand where you’re coming from and I respect your feelings. But I assure, I’m not trying to replace anyone. I’m just trying to be a supportive friend and girlfriend.” Sherry took a few bites of her salad as she listened to Emily. As much as she wanted to hate her, she knew that if she objected that it would only lead to Amara getting angry with her and cause more fighting between her and Simon. She sighed softly and nodded. “Ok, fair enough. But if one hair on that girl’s head is harmed while she’s with you, I am going to hold you personally responsible, got it?” Emily nodded. “Yes, definitely.” After another moment of awkward silence Sherry spoke again. “Ok, that’s all. You can go now.” Emily nodded and slid out of the booth. “Well it was nice to meet you.” Sherry looked up at Emily and nodded. “Likewise.” And with that Emily turned and left the club.

She drove right to Simon’s house after her meeting with Sherry and hurried inside. Simon was lounging on the couch reading a book when Emily came in. Simon closed the book and placed it on the coffee table as he sat up. “Hey, how did everything go?” He asked. Emily sat next to him on the couch and shrugged a bit. “Ok, I guess. She has a problem with my age and she thinks I’m trying to replace her but I assured her I’m not. I think everything is ok. For now, at least.” Simon nodded and wrapped his arms around Emily, pulling her close. “Thank you so much for doing this.” He said and kissed her forehead. Emily wrapped her arms around Simon’s torso. “Of course. It would’ve been silly of me not to.” “Why’s that?” “Well, because I love you and I care about Amara. If I couldn’t put myself in an uncomfortable situation for a little bit then I’d be a pretty shitty girlfriend.” Simon laughed softly and shook his head. “You’re actually the best girlfriend ever. I love you.” Emily smiled and pressed a soft kiss to Simon’s lips. “I love you too.”

The pair spent the rest of the afternoon cuddled up on the couch watching TV. After a couple of hours they ordered dinner. This was Emily’s favorite. Sure she like going out and hanging out with her friends. But she loved staying in with Simon more than anything. She felt so safe with him, like they were the only 2 people in the world. She never wanted that feeling to go away. After dinner they laid on the couch for a bit longer before deciding to head up to the bedroom. Simon playfully grabbed at Emily’s backside as she walked up the steps, causing her to giggle and slap his hands away. “You’re gonna get it, mister.” She would tease. “Oh yeah? What exactly am I gonna get?” He would tease back. Then they found themselves in Simon’s bedroom making out as they did many nights. Emily’s favorite position for this was when Simon would sit on the edge of the bed so she could straddle his waist. She loved making out with Simon. She loved the way his strong arms would hold her close to his body, the way his lips felt on her neck, the way his tongue explored her mouth. It always got her going.

As the pair lay naked and cuddling on the bed, a light sheen of sweat covering both their bodies, Emily gently ran her fingers through Simon’s chest hair. He loved when she did that. It was so relaxing. He would always close his eyes and make soft noises of approval when she did so. Emily had wanting to talk to Simon about something all night and figured, or hoped at least, that now, while he was still in a post sex haze, would be a good time. “Si, I wanted to talk to you about something.” Simon smiled as he twirled the ends of her hair around his fingers. “What’s up, sweetness?” He asked softly. Emily chewed her bottom lip. “Well, as I’m sure you know, my birthday is in a couple of weeks. And well, I was planning on going home to Vermont for a week to see my family and friends. I was wondering if you would come with me and…meet my parents.” Simon looked over at her. She had a hopeful look in her eyes. The thought of meeting Emily’s parents immediately made Simon nervous, but he loved Emily and wanted to make her happy. He smiled and nodded. “Of course.” “Really?” Simon nodded. Emily grinned brightly and pulled Simon into a hug. “Oh, Simon, thank you, thank you, thank you! I love you.” She said before kissing Simon sweetly. Simon laughed softly against her lips. “I love you too.”

Two weeks later, the day before Emily’s birthday, Simon was sitting on a plane with his girlfriend on his way to her hometown of Burlington, Vermont. Simon had been pretty nervous for the past couple of weeks. Meeting a girlfriend’s parents had never been his favorite thing to do. There was always too much pressure to impress them. And Simon felt even more pressure this time around. As much as Simon didn’t want to admit it, he knew the age thing was going to come up. Especially after finding out that Emily’s father is 45 and her mother is 42, only slightly older than Simon. In an effort to try and appear younger, Simon shaved off his mustache. He’d had it the entire time he knew Emily so he hoped she would react well. When he arrived at her house, she gave him whistle. “Damn, baby.” He laughed softly. “You like?” Emily wrapped her arms around Simon’s neck. “I do, but now everyone is really gonna get to see those delicious lips of yours.” Simon laughed and shook his head. On the plane, Simon tried to think positive but he was worried about how this week was going to turn out. Things were already going to be tense because Emily’s parents were going to be together. From what Emily told him, they didn’t get together often since their divorce. And when they did, things always ended in a fight. But Simon tried his best not let on that he was nervous. He didn’t want to upset Emily.

The flight was pretty uneventful luckily. After they landed and deplaned, Simon and Emily walked hand in hand through the small airport to a rental car counter. Simon paid for the car and Emily drove since she knew where she was going. Her mom’s house was about 45 minutes from the airport. The drive was pretty peaceful and scenic. As they pulled into the driveway, Simon sighed softly. Emily smiled over at Simon as she shut the car off. “Don’t worry. They’re gonna love you.” Simon smiled softly and climbed out of the car. He grabbed their luggage from the trunk and walked up to the front door, standing next to Emily. She rang the doorbell and bounced excitedly on her heels. Simon took a deep breath and put on his best smile as the front door swung open.

Tags: @faith-lynn9 @collette04 @simons-savior86 @simons-thirst-squad @negans-castle

[pyrewriter]

Schools Out

Balloons, lights, music and proud parents clapping and cheering as they watch their children dressed in suits and wrapped in dresses, get handed a scroll that declares them Graduates. One by one each class of students and their parents or attending guardians were ushered into their seats in front of the stage built in the courtyard. Every class had an elected representative that would give a speech after everyone received their diplomas. Adrien had been standing on the roof overlooking the courtyard watching as everyone graduated, he wanted to be there for one of the most important moments of their lives. Having grown used to her brother being just out of sight Fe' spotted him shortly after the ceremonies began, she waved giving a smile. 

Adrien didn't know most of the classes that went on stage but he stayed nonetheless, Plagg found this boring but respected Adrien's decision to stay instead flying off to talk with Tikki. Really he only stayed to watch Marc graduate but didn't know which class they were in so he stayed to watch them all, while he waited he chatted with his precursors. When Marc's class was up Adrien was surprised and happy to see he had been elected class representative. Nathaniel had arrived early to be by his side along with Fe' while Marc gave his speech, which was met with great applause. It was dusk now and the cloudy sky was radiating with beautiful tones of orange and red, only one class remained, the class he had been waiting for all day. Watching from a distance left a slight tinge of sadness in Adrien's chest ,it was graduation, and here he was standing in the shadow of the sunset only able to show silent support. 

Marinette had been elected class rep but she invited Chloe to the stand, placing one arm around her and smiling ,they had grown close, and together they delivered a short but inspirational speech.

M: "Hardships"

C: "Change"

M: "Disasters and Akuma's are all things we have endured but we keep moving, we've helped and supported each other through it all"

C: "We will not be stopped from living our best lives and choosing how we live them"

M: "Today marks the day we move on to the next part of our lives, I just wish we could have done it all together" she choked up clutching something tightly, holding it close to her chest.

Now Chloe put an arm around Mari continuing seamlessly "We just wish that a member of our class and dear friend went missing could be here and since this is being broadcast live-". The class, Marc and Fe' all gathered around the podium.

Marinette put on her best smile and held up another scroll, letting it fall open to reveal a diploma with one of the few photos that exist of him with a real smile. "Wherever you are ,if you’re watching, congratulations Adrien, you're an honorary graduate" she said looking into the camera that was broadcasting the ceremony live. On the roof Adrien was happy enough to make him shed a tear in gratitude to his friends, Nalma and other precursors placed their hands on his shoulder though he could not feel it. Shortly after the ceremony finished Plagg had returned and congratulated Adrien at a safe distance not wanting to get grabbed and hugged again. 

Nino and Fe' met up with Adrien back at the tavern where he and Milo greeted them with shots from the same bottle of whiskey they had been drinking from since they finished renovations. And so once more they celebrated with a shot for everyone, unfortunately Chat Noir needed to go on patrol but before he left he grabbed the picnic bag he had prepared earlier. He knew that his partner had also graduated that day though he did not know from what grade nor school she was graduating from. 

"Bonsoir Mon Minou, you seem happy" Ladybug greeted warmly as Chat Noir approached humming.

"Bonsoir Ladybug, of course I'm cheery, my partner and almost everyone I've known graduated today why would I not be" Chat replied.

She shrugged "Looks like you and I are in the same boat so I guess you're right, what's in the sack?" she asked pointing to the bag slung over her partner's shoulder. 

"I made some celebratory meals for us and our Kwamis" he explained reaching into the bag, adding as he pulled everything out "I'll sit on your right and I brought a mask so you don't-". He was cut off by a flash followed by a hand reaching for his face, the distinct lack of a red suit with black spots let him know what she was doing. Before she could turn his face Chat forced his eyes shut and mentally muted his connection with his precursors, a displeased frown forming on his mask.    

"Chaton, please our Kwami's know who we are and they want us to, why don't you trust me?" she asked pleadingly.

"Plagg, Claws In" gently ,with eyes still shut, he removed her hands from his face holding one in place as he reached into the bag and pulled out a sandwich holding it between them. In a relaxed yet caring voice he stated "I trust with my life-" placing the sandwich in her hand before letting go then pulling out a slice of Camembert and cookie "-But not my secrets". He was comfortable being de-transformed around his partner now because she didn't know who he was and revealing that he was Adrien could destroy her. But making up an identity would put him back at square one, he didn't want to revert to living two lives ,it would only become an intricate web, and he refused to weave another. Quietly unwrapping her sandwich and taking a bite Marinette silently accepted Chat Noir's bitter sweet words, it was to know that he trusted her. 

Taking a bite and swallowing she was surprised at how good the food tasted "This is really good, are you sure you made this?" she asked jokingly trying to lighten the mood.

"You wound me Ladybug, I might not have gone to culinary school but I do know how to make basic restaurant food" he replied adding with a chuckle "-part of the job after all". 

Marinette laughed at the dramatic movements he always did, "So are you going to eat something or am I going have to feed you?". 

Removing his mask and leaning close enough to feel her breath Adrien channeled his inner flirt, opening his eyes he peered into her and in a voice as smooth as silk "If that is what you desire~". He was so close now that all she could see were the green eyes that were locked with hers rendering her unable to look away. She became flustered ,his eyes reminded her of Adrien's, and it had been so long since he had made a flirty comment she was caught off guard and couldn't form full sentences. They stayed staring into each other's eyes for only a few seconds before he once more closed his eyes. Pulling back he chuckled offhandedly remarking "You're still cute when you get nervous and flustered, reminds me of a girl I knew". Marinette's face went red from embarrassment, she took a large bite of her sandwich chewing it angrily as she tried to pretend like she was fine. 

Out of curiosity she cast a glance over to her partner, she knew that he was Adrien's look alike but even in the dark the resemblance was striking. The four of them talked and joked between bites as they ate, enjoying the light and carefree atmosphere, they wished it was like this all the time. When the food was gone and their Kwamis were asleep a silence fell between them. Adrien was content with enjoying his partner’s presence but he could tell she was anxious. After a few minutes Marinette broke it thanking him for the meal and saying goodbye before transforming and zipping off as Ladybug. He stayed behind lighting an I.C. to relax with Plagg and connect with his precursors before he had to leave for his shift.

Nino had promised work in the Tavern when he was done with school and Fe' offered to lend a hand when she could so it wasn't the end of the world if Adrien was a minute or two late. He was wondering what Fe' planned to do now that school was out though, the distinction of 'when she could' had some implications to it that left him curious. After discussing it with Plagg and his precursors he pushed the thought to the back of his mind ,transformed, and headed for the tavern. It was a slightly busier than a normal night because of graduation but with an extra set of hands the workload was easy for them to handle. At the end of the night after everything was cleaned up and those who had drank more than their share were put to bed Milo volunteered to stay. 

"I'll stay here with the 'sleeping beauties up stares" he said shooing them out the door.

"You sure uncle, it's the weekend" Nino protested.

Milo shook his head "It's graduation day and you all worked the night, I'll take babysitting duty tonight, you kids go home and relax" he told them smiling as he closed the doors. 

The three of them looked at each other and shrugged, "I'll see you later Bro and maybe you too, Sis" Nino said exiting the alley with a wave leaving Adrien and Fe' alone. 

"Plagg, you rested enough for the trip home, I didn't bring the bike" Adrien asked opening his jacket, the Kwami yawned but nodded silently "Plagg, Claws Out". In a flash he was Chat Noir "Hop on'' he said turning his back to Fe' and bending down slightly, she hopped on and wrapped herself around him tightly as he launched onto the roof. They didn't talk much during the trip back to her house but he did ask a question he remembered from earlier. "Hey Fe', school's out now, so what's the plan you don't seem like the type to work full time at the tavern".

"I've got my schedule filled, don't worry about me, what about you?" she asked.

"What about me?". 

Fe' shifted "Well the tavern is a good night job and being a hero keeps you busy most of the time but what about when you finally stop Hawkmoth, what then?". 

Chat was silent for a moment, "Haven't thought that far ahead yet but you know me ,always the one to think on his feet, I'll be fine" he told her.

"That's not what I asked" she retorted, they were almost to the apartment now. He was silent until the school was in sight, the large banner reading "Congrats grads" still hung above the entrance. 

When he spoke his tone was serious and level, he had thought of what came Hawkmoth and he didn't like the implications. "Even when or if we finally find and defeat Hawkmoth this city will still need people to watch over it, crime rate in the city has gone down exponentially since our appearance. If we were to disappear with the threat that brought us there could be serious repercussions, all I can do is hope that is the one who granted me this power allows me to keep it. Fe' there are forces in play that I don't know how they will act when our job is done". All he could do was hope for the best ,but he hated that, he hated things so far out of his control when he knew the shortcomings of those who would take what they gave him. "I'll cross that bridge when I come to it, for now though I'm on the front line and I'll be damned if I won't protect this city" he stated assertively with determination in his voice.

Squeezing him tightly as they free fell to street level landing in front of her building Fe' whispered "That's the Brother I know and love" before getting off. De-transforming Adrien walked Fe' to her apartment picking up a now not so small Belial letting him lay over his shoulder before saying goodnight. Plagg was too exhausted to even eat the Camembert he was snuggling with in the pocket that he had chosen for the night. Adrien figured he would wake up and eat before morning, not quite being tired yet he decided to make the climb to his sleeping spot. The climb was enough to tire him out, lighting another I.C. he sat with his eyes closed petting Belial as he said goodnight to Plagg, his Precursors, and Belial eventually dozing off.

Inside Marinette found it hard to sleep, her mind raced trying to answer unnecessary questions that had formed during her time with Chat Noir. "Why does he wear s mask, what is Chat's real name, what secrets is he keeping?" all these and the one question that still gnawed at her after so many months "What changed while I was gone". She paced back and forth in her room for hours mumbling these questions aloud attempting to formulate answers from what she already knew. When nothing came to her she found herself desperately wishing that Plagg would come casually floating through her wall to tell her all his wisdom of the man behind Noir.

As if summoned by her dilemma Plagg did come floating in, he entered through the same wall he always did ,just about the round window looking out over the street, but something was off. Marinette greeted him quietly ,not wanting to wake Tikki, but he didn't respond in kind with his usual greeting, instead he mumbled unintelligibly and burped. Marinette approached him as he slowly floated across the room and immediately found what was wrong, he was asleep and possibly dreaming. She poked the Kwami to try and wake him which startled him causing him to yelp and fly straight up through the roof before she knew what happened. 

Blinking a few times she looked up toward where Plagg disappeared to, with an annoyed sigh she grabbed a pair of socks and prepared to go onto her balcony. Plagg, who was confused and still dazed from exhaustion looked around at his somewhat familiar surroundings. After rubbing his eyes and taking a moment to orient himself he shrugged not knowing why he was floating over the Ladybug wielders balcony. Flying over the edge and back down to Adrien he phased his way back into the cheese pocket.

"Plagg?" Marinette asked in an only slightly hushed voice as she stuck her head through the balcony hatch, reaching up she turned on the string lights before climbing up. "Where did that crazy Kwami fly off to?" she thought to herself looking around, when there was no sign of him she was about to go back inside when something caught her eye. A small wisp-like trail of greenish purple smoke dancing in the breeze, it was coming from somewhere below the railing at the end of her balcony. Slowly she approached the edge looking down once she reached it to see a figure garbed in a familiar outfit with a cigarette that smelled of lavender burning in their mouth. "Chat?" she called over the edge confused ,there was no response, "Chat Noir" she called again louder this time, still no response. 

She grunted in frustration before walking off, returning with a stress ball, throwing it at the figure she thought to be Chat Noir hitting him square in the head and bounced. The sudden impact jolted him awake causing him to convulse which shook Belial awake making him stretch and yawn. Looking around he noticed lights and a figure above him and a foam ball in his lap. Spitting out his I.C. he grabbed the ball he stood up and leaped toward the balcony grabbing onto the railing with one hand.

"Some people are trying to-" he snarled, his mask still removed, and arm raised ready to throw but stopped upon realizing who it was, Marinette was taken aback in surprise and mild fear. For a second the two they stared at each other, long enough for Belial to hop off his shoulder and onto the balcony. He broke the silence, "My apologies I believe this is yours" he said lowering his am and handing her the ball. 

"It, it's fine, are you ok?" she asked, putting the ball down and reaching for his face, regardless of who this person was she was concerned. 

Seeing her reach for him he realized that his face was still uncovered, turning from the light quickly taking out his mask and putting it on to cover his face. "I'd appreciate it if you furr-got what you saw" he said trying to salvage the situation with a weak laugh.   

Marinette pulled her hand back, this was definitely Chat Noir but he was de-transformed and she didn't recognize his face, his resemblance to Adrien was striking save for the distinguishing scar. "Chat Noir?" she asked her voice unsteady and concerned, he didn't respond. She wasn't sure what to do, she could reveal herself to him now but that could scare him off for good but this was probably the only chance she was going to get to learn anything about her partner. "You are Chat Noir aren't you, why are you sleeping outside?" she pressed trying her best to play dumb but sound concerned. 

Adrien sighed disguising his relief "Good she believed the ruse" he thought to himself but she had clearly seen his scar, he needed to make sure she didn't tell anyone. "Marinette, right?" he started waiting for her response before continuing.

"That's my name, yes" 

"Adrien has told me a lot about you-" he said climbing up to sit on the railing like a cat.

"What are you doing sleeping outside Chat Noir, you should go home" She told him, probing. 

Chuckling he replied sarcastically "Paris is my home" Belial walked along the railing to sit beside him "Correction, 'our' home" he added stroking his purring companion.

She scowled "That's not what I meant and you know it, we aren't strangers Chat what's wrong, what happened". Marinette was right that she and Chat Noir were not strangers, he had saved her on a number of occasions even going so far as to work together to defeat a few Akuma's. However they have never spoken in length unless it was to plan or Chat telling a group she was in what they needed to do. Her view of Chat had changed significantly since his shift to a more professional demeanor when he was with her as Ladybug, pieces were mentally beginning to slide into place. Chat's costume change, his professionalism, him ceasing to chase her romantically and his involvement in Adrien's disappearance all must stem from the event that scarred him. 

Changing to a normal sitting position he said "I meant what I said Paris is my home and nothing short of a cat-astrophy could ruin today, I'm all smiles" tracing a smile across his mask. "But on the note of smiles..." his voice lowered "I need your word that you won't say a word of what you saw to anyone ,not even Ladybug, can I trust you?" he asked. 

She froze for a moment, it was rare that Chat let his serious side show so openly, especially around civilians considering that he was still feared to a certain degree by the public. While Marinette was honored that he trusted her with the secret of what was behind his mask ,even if it was out of his hands, at the same time she was annoyed that he did. "Why are you hiding so much of yourself from Ladybug aren't the two of you partners?" she asked hoping if he trusted her civilian self enough she might be able to learn more. 

Shaking his head he replied "I'm an old soul Marinette, I've seen and done some shit I'm not proud of but there is no doubt in my mind that I'll do and see some more. People who think that they know me believe that I'm 'above' stuff like that but the truth is I’m neck deep in it". He inhaled deeply holding it for a moment before releasing "People who know me through and through know that there are few things I truly hate to do. Hurting those I care about or trust because they thought I was something I'm not is one of them". Echoing what he said to Ladybug he told her "I trust Ladybug with my life but not my secrets" adding "-but it's for more than privacy, I do it for their sake". 

Marinette clenched a fist, she wanted to slap him, she wanted to tell him that she was ladybug right then and there but didn't, all she could bring her self to do was say "Stupid cat". 

"Hahahaha you sound just like her" he pulled out his phone checking the time "It's late you should get some sleep, I need to start patrol" he said feeling a tap on his chest. He whistled for Belial who jumped to his shoulder, "Plagg, Claws Out" turning to leap away he looked back "It was nice to finally meet you in a more casual setting. Maybe I'll drop by again sometime, till then 'Purr-incess'".

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