#i really wanted to look at those fishing rods

[honeygrahambitch]

Will makes Hannibal cry happy tears the first time he finds a pig for himself. It's a guy in a supermarket who parked his shopping cart in front of the fishing equipment section making it impossible for Will to examine it.

[neverendingford]

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[mysteryshoptls]

2024-2025 Player Birthday Login Message Lines

These are all the messages that you get from the boys when you log in on the birthday that you set in-game from 18 Mar 2024 to 17 Mar 2025! For those that want to hear them, you can find them in the Archive, under the tab その他　→　監督生バースデー④. (This will not be in your game archives until the birthday you set passes.)

You can find the 2021-2022 Birthday Login Message Lines here! You can find the 2022-2023 Birthday Login Message Lines here! You can find the 2023-2024 Birthday Login Message Lines here!

HEARTSLABYUL

Riddle

Happy Birthday, [Yuu]. Thanks for always looking out for those two dorm students of mine. Actually, we're planning on hosting a reception this weekend at our dorm. I would like to invite you, as part of your birthday celebration. Heh. My apologies. Looks like that has caused you a little anxiety. No worries, I'll be beside you teaching you the proper manners the whole time.

Ace

Yo, [Yuu]. Happy Birthday― Mmkay, so let's get started on the birthday party. I'm just gonna pop on over to this one restaurant in town and nab some tasty-lookin' stuff! Just chill and wait here at Ramshackle... Hey, c'mon, I ain't tryin' to pull anything over on ya. Sometimes I just want to have a normal celebration too, y'know!

Deuce

[Yuu], Happy Birthday! Let me take you to go buy a prese... Eh? You're saying that I've already given you a present because I fixed the broken lights in Ramshackle the other day...? No way, you don't gotta hold back like that! I want to go all out for my pal's special day. That's what makes me happy.

Cater

[Yuu]-chan, Happy Birthday―☆ Did ya post on Magicam that it's your birthday? Oh, not yet? Then, let Cay-kun here with all his power and wisdom write a post for you! We'll attach a cool photo and some slammin' hashtags... Whaddya think? A perfect gift from me, or what?

Trey

Happy Birthday. So, about your present... I do have one. It's just... I was asking around for what to gift you and in the end, I couldn't really figure out what I should get... So in the end, after being at a loss, I ended up getting you this shirt. I look at it now and wonder what possessed me to pick this pattern... Yeah, I know, it's just laughable.

SAVANACLAW

Leona

Yeah, yeah. Your birthday's come 'round again, hooray. ...What're you doing, setting up a chessboard on the floor like that? You practiced just to win a game against me? Oho, so you're challenging me, then. Look at the pluck on this herbivore. So, what're you willing to bet, then? No way you're gettin' away with just a simple game after throwin' down the gauntlet at me like this.

Jack

So, it's your birthday today. Have you set up any new goals yet? What, you're going to surpass me in our classes? Heh, that's a hilarious joke. You really think you can beat me? But I'll take you on. If you get a better score on our next test, I'll get you some kind of present.

Ruggie

Happy Birthday―! 'N that means, I got you somethin' that's fittin' comin' from an upperclassman like me. Ta-da! A homemade fishing rod～ ...Ah, you totally just thought it's a cheap gift, didn'tcha! But this totally works! I know what it's like to go hungry too, y'know～ You're probably always goin' through things, so if you're ever in a pinch, make sure you use this!

OCTAVINELLE

Azul

A very Happy Birthday to you. Have you thought of a gift you'd like to get for yourself? Please, allow me to procure it for you... ...Oho, you have a keen eye to request something of that caliber. It may be considerably difficult to just anyone to acquire. HOW-EV-ER! If I were to handle it, that is a different situation altogether. I shall definitely make sure to retrieve it for you. Please wait expectantly.

Jade

Happy tidings for your birthday. I do hope this year will be another fruitful year for you. By the way, [Yuu]-san. Have you eaten yet? Oh, not yet, how wonderful. As a matter of fact, I thought I would treat you to something in my own little way. I only offer this with the best of intentions, of course. Fufu.

Floyd

Oh hey, Shrimpy-chan. It's your birthday today, huh. Mmkay, then I'll give you some snacks. I got these strange tastin' gummies, these wicked hard cookies, and some squishy jerky. Awesome, right? I got a ton, but all of them expire today, so. These are my presents to you, so you better eat them all without wastin' any, 'kay?

SCARABIA

Kalim

[Yuu], Happy Birthday! Here's your present, from me to you. Ahaha, did that surprise you? I tried making a pop up birthday card just for you. I also tried making a ton of paper flowers that we use during celebrations back in the Scalding Sands. Don'tcha think they came out real pretty?

Jamil

Happy Birthday, [Yuu]. It isn't much, but here's your present. Ramshackle is a fairly old building. I'm sure there are bugs that will find their way in and try to settle down here. However, if you use this, you can rid yourself of all of them in an instant. I can vouch for its effectiveness. Use it as soon as you can.

POMEFIORE

Vil

Happy Birthday, [Yuu]. ...You wish for me to come to your party here, at Ramshackle? And to top it all off, you've prepared a healthy menu just for me... Heh, how considerate of you. Very well. I suppose I can make an appearance out of respect for your enthusiasm. I do hope you're honored that I'll be there to celebrate with you.

Epel

Happy Birthday! I put in a lot of thought picking out a present for you. Here ya go, fingerless gloves! Nice design, right? Makes using your phone a lot easier, too. It'll make you look super cool, and the more you use it, the more comfy it'll feel. I hope you use it tons!

Rook

I've been waiting, Trickster. Waiting, that is, to celebrate your birthday with you. A spectacular day requires a spectacular memory. That is why I've come up with a wonderful plan of my own. First, we watch two back-to-back theater performances, then attend a poetry reading, and finally, watch a movie in the evening. There will be no time to rest. Come, we must quickly fly towards the theater!

IGNIHYDE

Idia

Kk, time to pretend we all get along and celebrate a birthday again... Eep!? D-Did you hear that just now...? Uh, so... Happy B-day, I guess... Soz, I don't have a present for you. Didn't even know it was your birthday... What, you're seriously just happy hearing me wish you a happy b-day? [siiigh] Nah, I'll order something small online and have it shipped to Ramshackle sometime later.

Ortho

Happy Birthday! Here's your present. Go ahead and open it! Hehe, you see what I did? I used a laser to engrave a birthday message on a glass tumbler for you. It was a little difficult fine tuning the power adjustment for the more detailed parts, but it came out pretty good, don't you think? I really hope you like it!

DIASOMNIA

Malleus

Child of Man, I see today is your birthday. ...Hm? What's the matter? You look a tad glum. Ah, I see, you are struggling to carry all your presents. Well, allow me to deliver them to Ramshackle with magic in your stead. No need to protest, this is an effortless task for someone like me. You should enjoy your special day to the utmost.

Silver

Happy Birthday. You're curious about this braided cord? It is your present. Lilia-senpai explained it to me thusly... If a string wrapped around your wrist or ankle snaps off on its own, then your wish will be granted. I strung this cord together in hopes that you may have your wishes come true. It may be a tad ill-shaped, but if it pleases you, it is yours.

Sebek

As I recall, today is your birthday... Hm? You want me to come to your birthday party? What poor semblance of a joke. I don't have the spare time to waltz into some human gathering like... WHAT!? MY LIEGE HIMSELF WILL ALSO BE THERE!? THEN SAY THAT FIRST! For goodness' sake, humans like you are just... so thoroughly thoughtless. Hurry and provide me the location and commencement time!

Lilia

Ooh, nice. So today's your birthday. Just look at how big you're getting. ...Khee hee hee. Don't look so downtrodden. It's just me pretending to be a doting gramps. The other guys in my dorm don't ever let me joke with them like that. And so, I have a present for you. Here, a CD of my performances, specially made! Take this and enjoy my raging screamo music with your whole heart and body.

OTHERS

Crowley and Rollo do not have new lines. Theirs are repeated from last year's.

Grim

Today's your birthday, huh. Happy Birthday to you! ...Huh? Do I got a gift for ya? What're ya even saying? Shouldn't ya be happy enough that you're my number one favorite henchie? Fiiine. Guess I can use my paws to pad you a massage sometime. Wouldn't want to hafta sit in a hard and uncomfy lap, after all!

Crowley

Ta-daaa! What do you suppose this could be? That’s correct, it’s an exchange coupon for use at the Mystery Shop! You have been a consistent helping hand, so… This is a special gift for you. Happy Birthday. Incidentally, that is only worth 500 madol (5 Thaumarks). It cannot be exchanged for something pricier than that. Please don’t hold it against me.

Crewel

It seemed rather rowdy in here, but now I see it was just you, pup. Are you excited simply because its your birthday? I see, well, in that case, I have a special present just for you. As for what it is... It is a special alchemy homework assignment. You should be happy; you'll be able to improve your skills even further with this, don't you think? Haha, Happy Birthday.

Rollo

Whatever is the matter, [Yuu]-kun? There is a strange glimmer in your eyes… ...Ah, I see. Today is your birthday. A present? Hmph. I hardly think that it should be something you request of others… But no matter. Indeed, birthdays should be treasured. However, what would be an acceptable gift…? I am afraid I’m rather unaccustomed to this. I would hope I do not disappoint you with a poor gift choice.

Fellow

Oh, my, hello there, my learned scholar! I've been searching, and finally, I've found you! I was fervently hoping to wish you well for your birthday. Here, your present. ...As fellows lacking in magical abilities, we should get along together, don'tcha think? Happy Birthday! Fwahaha!

Requested by Anonymous.

[rollinouttahere-writes]

what about platonic Zeff and Sanji where they take in an abanoned baby and Sanji is immediately like guess I'm a big brother now

Adrift, At Home

Platonic Zeff and Child Sanji x GN Baby Reader

2.6k words

Warnings: graphic depictions of gore and mild references of starvation

The fishing line swayed with the water, drifting freely as it waited for something to bite. Zeff had been sitting in a chair on the dock for a while now and had yet to catch anything beyond the errant piece of seaweed that had tangled itself on the hook. This didn’t bother him. The restaurant was closed for the day and he was more than content to simply enjoy the fair weather, the fishing rod was an excuse to be out here more than anything. 

He’s not an old man that just wants to relax once in a while, he’s catching some fish for the restaurant, thank you very much.

A page was turned from a little farther down the dock. Zeff glanced over, casually observing Sanji as he paged through that fish book he was so fond of. He was lying on his stomach, head propped up on one hand and feet kicking in the air behind him. The boy was fully engrossed in the book and hasn’t spoken a word to Zeff since coming out here. Which was normal for him. 

Zeff went back to idly watching his line, not wanting to provoke Sanji into getting huffy because he caught Zeff looking at him. The horror.

“There’s a boat.”

The off duty chef couldn’t help but tense when Sanji abruptly broke the silence. Looking over at him again, the boy had propped himself up and was pointing. Shifting his focus to where he was motioning to, he saw what Sanji was talking about.

A small boat was slowly drifting past them. It was far too small to be a legitimate sea faring vessel. A lifeboat, perhaps? Had there been a shipwreck nearby? If there was anyone in it, he couldn’t see them. It’s still light out. If they were lost at sea, they should be up and actively trying to call for help. The only reason there wouldn’t be anyone in sight is either because the boat is empty and had simply drifted off on its own.

Or if whoever was in it was already gone.

Sanji suddenly leapt to his feet, “There’s someone in there! I can see a hand!”

A hand? Zeff squinted, internally cursing his aging vision. Just barely peeking over the edge of the boat was the hand Sanji was talking about. Some fingers limply hung off the edge, showing no signs of movement. Zeff really didn’t like that.

Sanji hopped on one foot while ripping off his shoes and was just about to leap into the water when Zeff caught his arm, “Don’t. I’ll go check on them, you go tell the others.”

The boy’s eyes flickered down to his leg, “But-”

“Go. I’m sure that person is hungry, tell Patty to make them something nice,” Zeff’s tone left no room for argument, and Sanji knew better than to push it. He sped off for the Baratie, his previously discarded shoes forgotten in his hurry. 

It would be for the best if Sanji wasn’t here to see this if the stranger in the boat was indeed deceased. There was no telling how long they’ve been there, and Sanji did not need to see that.

After reeling in the fishing line, he tossed it to the side and got to work on unbuckling the straps for his prosthetic. He pulled the peg leg off and propped it up against the chair. Using the armrests, he stood on his remaining leg, then dove into the sea.

The water was cold, but not debilitatingly so. Zeff had no trouble cutting through the mild waves, his lack of one of his limbs had done little to slow him down. The lifeboat wasn’t far off, it won’t take him long to close the gap.

Once he was close enough to be heard, he called out, “Are you alright in there?”

The flapping of wings, followed by some birds flying away from the boat was the only response he received. His heart sank. Maybe those birds were only there to rest, but it was unlikely that they would be bold enough to do so if someone was there to shoo them away.

Then the smell hit him. The musty, putrid, and sickeningly sweet scent of death. Before even making contact with the boat, he knew that it was already too late for whoever was on it.

Still, he forced himself to go the rest of the way. Whoever this was deserved a proper burial after what was likely an agonizing death.

Finally, he was at the boat. His hands grabbed onto the side of the boat, the unidentified person’s hand was directly next to his left hand. Steeling himself for what he was about to see, he hauled himself up. If it wasn’t for his rough history, the sight would have left him sick.

Based on the clothing, he could assume the deceased had been a woman. There wasn’t much else for him to go off of. Sea birds had been eating away at her flesh. They would start at the face, the skin was easiest to get through there, and after that they would work their way down. Her face was gone, every strip of meat had been ripped off and left nothing but a blood soaked skull in its wake. The birds had made decent progress down to the chest after that, a couple hours more and they would have gotten to the organs.

If he had to guess, he would say she hasn’t been dead that long. Birds work quickly, and the wounds are all very fresh. She was probably still alive yesterday. 

Zeff heaved himself up onto the boat, doing his best to avoid disturbing the body. Empty food tins crunched loudly under his weight as he army crawled onboard. The rocking of the boat dislodged the woman’s sunburnt hand from its perch. Rather than falling limp, the muscles remained stiff, fingers clenched as if they were still holding on to something.

Under no circumstances could he let Sanji see this. His eyes darted around the boat for something to cover at least her face with. He would use his shirt if he had to. There was a turned over crate with a tarp covering it. Perfect. It would be more than big enough to wrap around her entire body. Why she hadn’t used it for protection from the sun was beyond him, but there was really no use questioning it now.

The tarp was ripped off the box unceremoniously, and Zeff was frankly eager to get the body covered. Just because he could handle the sight didn’t mean he particularly wanted to see it.

There was something in the box. No. Someone.

A baby, and it isn’t moving.

Zeff forgot about the tarp in an instant and lurched forward to pull the baby out of its hiding place. You were underweight, that much was notable off the bat. Cradling your weak form carefully, he held you up to his face and pressed an ear against your chest.

thump thump thump

The relief that went through him was indescribable. You were weak, but alive. As bad as your given condition may be, your lack of energy was likely the only reason the birds hadn’t noticed you. He set you down in his lap and scrambled to get the oars into the water and get paddling. There was no telling how little time you had left.

“It’s going to be okay. We’ll puree some of the best baby food you’ve ever had as soon as we get back to the Baratie.” It was debatable if he was saying this to reassure you or himself. It was barely audible, but he heard a small grunt. Looking down, he saw your face pinch as you attempted to open your eyes with what little energy you had left. “That’s it. Keep fighting, kid.”

Fortunately for you, the dock wasn’t far away, it would only take a couple of minutes before you would be out of the scorching sun and in the restaurant. Several of his workers were already waiting for him at the dock, one of them being Sanji.

Shit! He forgot to cover up the body of who he now presumed to be your mother. Setting down the oar, he pulled the tarp over her head and did his best to make sure it wouldn’t come loose. “Sanji, go inside and help in the kitchen!”

It looked like he was trying to argue, but the other cooks shut it down. From their grim expressions, it appeared that they already knew why Zeff would be so insistent on Sanji not being here for this. The kid scowled, but ultimately turned to leave, stomping his way to the restaurant.

Zeff paddled as fast as he could, praying that his efforts wouldn’t be in vain.

—

The time from when Zeff docked to now had been a whirlwind. Everyone had been prepared for a dead body, but had gone into a tizzy upon realizing there was also a survivor. A very young one at that.

Fortunately, you appeared to be old enough to eat solid food, and had been eager to do so once you’d gotten your wits about you. Apparently they hadn’t been feeding you fast enough, so you tried to take matters into your own hands by snatching the spoon out of theirs. For as weak as you’d looked on the boat, it seems your health hadn’t deteriorated as much as he’d initially thought. Your mother must have been giving the bulk of the food she had to you.

As for the deceased mother, there wasn’t much they could do about her. Ships went missing all the time, figuring out which one she had specifically come from would be near impossible. Even if they did… it would be difficult for anyone to identify her. As sad as it was, giving her a burial at sea was the best they could do.

They can only hope that she will be able to rest peacefully now that her baby is safe.

After giving you a much needed bath and clothing you in one of Sanji’s old shirts, you were happily sitting in a basket they’d stuffed some blankets into for padding. The shirt was dramatically too big for you, but it would have to do until proper clothes could be picked up.

Taking in an infant had hardly been something that Zeff planned to do today, but he saw few other options. If he couldn’t figure out who your mother was, what chance did he have at identifying you and tracking down surviving family members? Sure, this situation was what orphanages were there for, but he couldn’t bring himself to abandon you at one. After everything you’ve been through, you deserve to have a good roof over your head, and such a thing is hardly a guarantee at one of those.

“Where is the other person?” 

Zeff looked up from the catalog he’d been flipping through at Sanji’s inquiry. Admittedly, he’d been hoping the kid wouldn’t ask about it, however unrealistic that was. He’d been very focused on you since you were brought in. Even now, he was sitting by your basket and letting you play with his hand. Ah, they would need to pick up some toys for you next time they went to shore, too.

The pause was too long for Sanji’s liking, so he continued, “That hand I saw was too big to be theirs.”

Of course he’d notice the discrepancy. While Sanji was far from being a stranger to horrors and hardships, Zeff still did not want to disclose the details of what he saw to him. “The other person was already dead. We had no way of knowing where she came from so she was buried at sea.”

“Was she their mother?” Sanji turned to look at Zeff.

“More than likely,” was his simple response.

Sanji bit his lip and abruptly looked away, then back at the baby. Silence hung in the air a while longer before he spoke up again, “So they’re all alone now?”

“I wouldn’t say that. They’ve got all of us, don’t they? I expect that you’ll help take care of them since you were the one that spotted the boat they were in.” Zeff glanced over the list of baby supplies he’d made. Content with what he saw, he stood from the table. Now he needed to take account of what food they had in stock and make that list next. “Keep an eye on them while I finish making the list.”

He heard a hum of affirmation and considered that good enough before making his exit. The pantry wasn’t far, he’ll be able to hear you if you start fussing. Besides, Sanji’s a good kid. He can handle watching a baby for a few minutes. 

You’re going to need a name, he supposes. Can’t keep calling you ‘the baby’ forever. Oh well, he’s sure a name will come to him soon enough.

It didn’t take long to make note of what food they needed, which wasn’t much. They weren’t due for another grocery run for a few more days yet, but there were some supplies for you that they simply couldn’t go without in the meantime. He’ll set out bright and early tomorrow, you won’t have to wait for long.

Zeff came back into the kitchen, only to find it empty. This wasn’t immediately concerning to him. The only people on the Baratie were his staff, and he knew none of them posed any danger. Still, he couldn’t help but wonder where you’d gone off to. Even the basket was missing.

Might as well look around, to sate his curiosity if nothing else.

The first place he checked was the dining room, but that turned up nothing besides a couple of workers repairing a table that had been broken in a scuffle earlier that day. Maybe someone had taken you out to the outdoor seating area for some fresh air? He was on his way to go and look when he heard a muffled voice. It was coming from Sanji’s room.

The door was cracked open just enough for Zeff to be able to peer in.

“And this one is blue-finned elephant tuna. See how it’s got tusks and a feeler that looks like a trunk? It’s supposed to taste really good!”

Sanji was seated behind your basket and used it to prop up the book he was showing you. The book seemed to be holding your attention. You were taking in the pictures with wide eyes while gnawing on one of your fists. Sanji’s enthusiasm appeared to be rubbing off on you, making you let out little coos as he spoke to you in depth about the fish.

The next page was turned to, and he continued excitedly rambling, “This one is a sandora catfish. They’re carnivorous and huge! I bet it would be really good fried and with a cream sauce.”

It would seem that you liked the sound of that. The hand that had previously been in your mouth suddenly went forward and grasped at the page.

“Ack! Hey, don’t get drool on it! It’s not even food yet,” Sanji mumbled the last part. He’d been able to pull the book away without you tearing a page and was trying to wipe off the drool you’d smeared across the page.

His scolding had little effect, you giggled loudly at his outburst and were doing your best to turn around and continue your assault on his book.

Zeff quietly chuckled to himself as you succeeded in grabbing the book again. It seems you two were getting along well, he’ll leave you be for now.

[rosenbergamot]

“You’re annoying me.” Gem says to the mysterious shape in the water that’s been watching her fish for the past… oh, I don’t know, five days. Usually the thing will swim away quickly, or sometimes it will disregard her ire and continue to sit there as if it relished in her annoyance. Today it slaps its tail against the water, sending waves towards her.

“That was childish.” She blows a raspberry at it because she herself is the pinnacle of maturity.

It slaps the water again, splashing her and giving her a mouthful of briny seawater. She spits it out, unamused. Its tail is large, with deep blue scales that sparkle in the morning sun. Whatever this thing is, it's big and it loves to watch her talk to herself.

“You know we’re on the same side here, right?” This is a lie and they both know it. Fisherman and fish could never be on the same side. “Hey, how about if I catch anything I’ll give you some of it. But you have to promise to stop scaring the fish away!”

The tail slowly raises out of the water. It does not slap down like it did before. Instead, slowly, so slowly, a head raises out as well. She sees two deep eyes stare back at her, a head of messy brown hair, a smile sharp and intelligent.

“What?!” She gawks.

“You promise, mate?” It has a playful voice, melodic and feminine, and when it speaks its gills flare at its neck. “I don’t take too kindly to people breaking their promises.”

“You’re a person?”

It purses its lips. “Not really? What, you think a person looks like this?” She unearths her fingers from the water. The sea drips off of her long sharp claws. “Couldn’t do much with these if I was a person.”

“Uh… yeah!” She recasts her line, her eyes wandering across the pale skin until she reaches the chest and— oh! The… person? Creature? Whatever it is, it’s shirtless, and Gem doesn’t want to be caught staring. That’s so rude! She fixes her gaze on her rod.

It swims closer to her. It gets so close she’d be able to touch if she wanted. It rests its head on the dock, stares up at her with vertical pupils. She’s got silvery patchings of scales on her face.

This is… only a little bit different from what they’d been doing before. She can still handle it. It’s just… right there instead of in the water. And instead of just being a fish it is a very pretty woman with very sharp teeth. That’s okay! Gem’s okay!

She goes back to fishing, those eyes still on her. Eventually she hooks a salmon and cheers. The creature blinks at her as she puts it in her bucket.

“None for me?” She pouts.

“Oh, no! You’ll just have to wait!” She grabs more bait. “I need to feed myself, after all. I’m a busy woman, can’t have some fish lady taking all my food!”

A miserable sigh. It bonks its head back down on the dock. “You’re lucky I think you’re pretty.”

That catches her off guard. She accidentally hooks a bit of her thumb as she’s trying to hook the worm. She curses and shakes the blood off. The creature’s eyes follow it.

“Uh-huh… and why’s that?”

When she responds, she’s not looking at Gem. She’s staring at her bleeding thumb. Her long tongue comes out to lick at her lips. She grins at her.

“‘Cause I’d have just eaten you already if I didn’t.”

When she swallows, it watches the way her throat moves with attentive eyes. They sit there in silence for the rest of the day.

It ends up swimming away with five whole fish in her grasp. As she’s disappearing, she yells back to Gem:

“See ya tomorrow, pretty fisher lady!” Her teeth reflect the sun. “I hope ya catch lots of stuff tomorrow! For both our sakes!”

Then it’s gone, tail the last thing to leave, and Gem is left to wonder if she’s just invited something horrible into her life…

And if so, why is she excited about it?

[kairiscorner]

ok but like, he would be a sweet big brother (and a minecraft veteran).

(reblogs are greatly appreciated, it helps get my content out there! if you guys like what you see, please reblog it too <:D)

he has a soft spot for the little fella — miles 42 x reader

you had to do the laundry and cook some dinner like your parents asked you to, and miles was down to help, but you insisted he could just sit back and watch over your little sibling. he didn't wanna make it known to you he had zero knowledge on babysitting so he just awkwardly sat down next to them. after a few minutes of silence, miles kept looking at your sibling from the corner of his eye, watching them play on their ipad, making sure they wouldn't fall over or do something stupid.

he decided to sit there in silence and look at his phone and wait for you to finish your chores, when all of a sudden, your younger sibling tapped his shoulder. he looked over at them and they moved closer to him, showing him the game on their screen. "oh, minecraft?" he asked the kid, and they nodded. "do you know how to make a fishing rod?" they asked him, their big doe eyes looking up into his own chestnut brown ones.

miles began to teach the kid how to craft the necessary items they needed, but the kid didn't stop there. they showed miles around their minecraft home, their horses and cows, and their dog. miles chuckled because the kid was so imaginative, so creative with their little minecraft home. "ey, invite me over sometime, will ya? i can play with you on your server when i get home." he offered the kid with a smile.

your little sibling beamed up at him. "you would?" they asked him, and he nodded, grinning all the while. "of course." your little sibling was overjoyed, they had never played with anyone else before, not until miles asked to play with them. they reached in to hug miles and thanked him happily for wanting to play with them. "i'll make you a big house! i'll put it by the lakes, oh! and i'll make an army of iron golems to protect you!" they exclaimed as miles ruffled their hair and chuckled lightly. "thanks little fella, i'll take you to the nether and we'll explore there, whaddya say?" he offered as your sibling smiled widely. "i've never gone there i'm so scared of the ghasts... please keep me safe, big bro!" they pleaded miles.

he had never been called that before, 'big bro'–it felt... gratifying, in a way. it felt rewarding, warm, and just overall good. he liked your little sibling, they were so sweet and they liked him too; he was worried your sibling might find him weird or too quiet, but not at all! he smiled and pinched your sibling's cheek playfully, with them giggling at the touch. "oh, you bet i will. those ghasts aren't ready for your big brother miles." he said with an air of confidence as your sibling was building a nether portal in creative mode for miles to play right now.

maybe he was a natural at this, maybe he just got lucky your sibling was so friendly and amicable–or maybe... he just happened to end up being a really good older brother figure for them, even if he had doubts in the beginning.

tags !! @k4tsu3 @fiannee @luvstarrstruck @toneystank-3000 @ii01vq @maxoloqy @popeheywardssecretgf @solecitoszn

[bashfullove]

❦Reactions To You Wanting To Draw Them❦

❦Summary: Their beautiful/handsome S/O wants to capture their beauty in pencil

���Includes: Arthur, Sadie, Javier, Kieran

❦Warnings: none ❦Notes:I know it's very few characters but I tried to write as much as I could. If you want other characters feel free to request it

❦Arthur Morgan❦

"Wait seriously?" It's almost like he doesn't believe you when you ask for the consent to capture his pure bliss and beauty while he fishes. The boat you both sat in rocking very lightly like a mother rocking her newborn's cradle, the fishing rod is in his steady calloused hands while you pinch the pencil between your fingers, etching the features of his jawline on the paper. If Arthur had been so kind before to draw you, why couldn't you return the favour? Plus you never really cared for fishing all that much, you just liked being in the same space as Arthur, breathing the same air, and sharing the perfect silence with a unstressed breeze between you two. And maybe you treated this as an excuse to look at Arthur a little closer than you usually would, admire the finer details of his roughened face. The small scar on his cheek that you never truly figured out the origins of, the small strand of hair that without fault would always end up against his forehead, the bags on his eyes that if they were on anyone else that you wouldn't find too appealing but just because it's on Arthur, your Arthur, its one of those imperfections that turns perfect. His jaw is practically on the floor once you reveal the drawing to him, the details that you've captured in his face that he had only seen as flaws. He wasn't used to this, he was used to capturing the beauty around him, hiding the ugliness away from his drawings, the ugliness which he labelled as himself. Even with a beauty like you beside him he could never find himself all that appealing to look at, let alone put in the work in drawing. He felt flattered thought hat you would take the time to draw him, he knows he's returned the favour more than enough times. Enjoying to draw you when you're grooming your horse, singing at the campfire with Javier, looking so peaceful sleeping beside him, any chance he would take to capture your beauty. And Arthur wouldn't ever admit it, maybe he was too proud or didn't want to look too soft to the others but he would take the drawing you made of him everywhere. That little reminder that even when he thought he was the worst man alive that there was someone back at camp who saw him as perfect

❦Sadie Adler❦

"Draw me? Well if it makes you happy I guess?" She'll pretend that she doesn't care, that it means nothing when you approach her all shy, your leather back journal and pencil in your hands while she's dragging her gun oil soaked rag over her pistol's barrel. Her eyes glancing at you as if its some kind of joke but when she sees your serious, she just shrugs it off and keeps working. She comments that she isn't gonna just sit still for an hour while you draw, she's a busy woman who has work to get done and you understand that. Hoping to get her drawing done quick but with the details you keep getting glimpses of when you pull your vision from the paper to her face make you realise how much more work you'll have to do to get it perfect. But inside, what you don't see, is that Sadie really does care at the idea of her drawing, especially from you. She's always been a secret fan of your little hobby, it was nice to have something that brought you such comfort and calm, she really wished she had something like that before she met you but now she had you, even if she tried to look all tough, she was truly as lovesick as she used to be with her now deceased husband that she is with you. When your eyes aren't on her, she's fixing her hair or clothes, just making sure that you get the best details of her. She doesn't want to look like an outlaw, she wants to look like a normal woman even if she is far from that now. She wants to look normal for you, the contrast between you two was so obvious to her. She could shoot twelve men and not even miss a wink of sleep while you couldn't even shoot a squirrel when you went out hunting with her. She enjoyed your kind heart though, it made her not feel so monsterous for what she's done and all the people she's hurt. She's very patient truly when you need more time to finish, even if before she told you that she wasn't gonna sit still. She knows how much you took pride and patience in your work, she wanted to make sure that your needs were met. And it paid off because when she finally does see the drawing, her heart has swelled holding the leather back journal as she admires your work. She had truly forgotten what she had looked like when she wasn't covered in dirt and blood, the inner beauty of her that you captured physically on the drawing, she just loved you a little more.

❦Javier Escuella❦

"Are you interested in a more intimate portrait?" Don't get me wrong, he is very flattered that you want to sketch him but he has to tease, giving you that sly smirk on his lips while he leans against the tree, his guitar in his lap and you sitting across from him. He sits confidently, trying to get a peak at your work every now and again, making comments at you that almost distract you from your drawing with how much they make your heart flutter. He gives you ideas for the drawing, like how he could look good on his horse, or fighting Micah, anything that makes him look like your personal hero that you already know he is. When you sometimes look up at him, he sends you a quick wink, chuckled at your flustered cheeks and quick change of focus back onto your paper. As much as Javier is teasing and trying to distract you from the work, he has full intentions of sitting right under the tree in the scorching heat until your work would be done to perfection. If you were more than happy to sit with him while he lazily strummed on his guitar, he could be considerate enough to enjoy his time with you while you work on your own hobby. He isn't exactly patient so eventually he leaves his spot, scooting over to you as he rests his chin on your shoulder, looking at your work. His eyes are glued to your fingers which pinch your pencil and move in little scritch scratches on the finer details of his mustache. Careful to keep the strings of his guitar as straight as possible even if there's a little wonky bit every here and now. He thinks it's adorable how focused you are, your eyes glued to the sheet and your tongue sticking out of your mouth every now and again as you concentrate on the proper shading, rubbing your thumb against the paper to smudge the ink

❦Kieran Duffy❦

"I'm nothing special" It makes you frown to hear him say such a thing, turning his back to you when he continues on his chores, not wanting to be a burden to you. Not that he ever was, Kieran was the perfect medium between fantasy and realism. He was perfect to you, since the day you met him in Colter. Sneaking him food when everyone was asleep, on the coldest days when the wind blew harder with every second that burned your exposed skin but it had been worth it to see the small smile on his face when he knew at least there was someone who cared for him. Not many people had ever cared for him, his ma died young and his pa not long after her. He had been alone, every time he met one they would disappear or die around him. Possibly that's why it took so long for him to warm up to you, his fear that the next good thing in his life was gonna disappear. But you refused to take his no or fear for an answer, proving him time and time again that you didn't plan to go anywhere. Even if he would push and push you away, you held on like a tick on a dog, of course a bit more benefitial than a tick for a dog. And maybe it takes a little bit of forcing to get him to just sit down, relax and let you show him that he is a lot more perfect than he thinks so. He's stiff, constantly trying to find an excuse to escape your eyes on him as you concentrate on capturing his finer details. He's fixing his hat to hide his face until you rip the hat away from him, practically begging him to just let you do this and show him in your own eyes, your vision of how perfect the squirmy shy and anxious boy sitting under the tree with you truly is. Once you're finished he's so happy that he has something made by someone only for him, something that he is able to cherish. Even if he will still have his self esteem issues, he will always have his physical representation of the love from his little artist.

❦Thank You For Reading❦

❦Taglist:

❦Bashfullove❦

[ihavemanyhusbands]

PLEASEEEEE can you do will graham x fem reader who is very sleepy 24/7? Thank you very much :)))))🫶

For sure ‼️

——

“Hey.”

Will’s voice, along with a nudge to your arm, made you jerk awake. You blinked at him, a little disoriented at having nodded off without really noticing.

You tried to stifle a yawn as you adjusted in your seat and he raised an eyebrow.

“Sorry,” you said, stretching your arms at your sides. “The sound of the river’s pretty soothing.”

“You’re never gonna catch any fish this way, you know.”

“Well, to be fair, someone kept me up late last night,” you said, giving him a pointed look.

He scoffed, an amused grin tugging at his lips. “Oh, suddenly eleven hours of sleep isn’t enough?”

“Not without a nap or two during the day. Maybe three for extra good measure.”

He chuckled, taking your fishing rod from you, already knowing it was futile. “Do you want us to go back to the cabin?”

You buried your hands in your jacket pockets, yawning again. “No, no, don’t mind me. I’ll just sit here and look pretty. Or well, sleep pretty I guess.”

He shook his head, humor dancing in his eyes as he reached over to squeeze your arm affectionately. Still, you knew he wasn’t going to let you off that easy.

“Alright then. I’ll make sure to get us some dinner. Again.”

You smiled impishly. “Don’t wake me up until that cooler is full of trout. If we eat enough, then I might just have plenty of energy to keep you up late.”

And of course, as soon as you said those words, he immediately took them as a challenge.

——

[bluejeanstrash]

this to me is peak boyfriend seungcheol. it’s escaping to the mountains for the weekend to spend some quiet quality time together. 

it’s sitting by the water where seungcheol has been trying to fish for an hour, occasionally getting excited that he’s caught something only for it to swim away. you’re sitting on one of those foldable camping chairs writing in your journal. you take a moment to look up at him and god, he’s beautiful. 

his hair is all fluffy and tousled by the wind, clothes fluttering with every gust, and there’s the soft morning sun which seems to be glowing just on him. he feels you looking at him as he turns around and smiles. it's that smile that makes you feel all warm and mushy - the one where his eyes crinkle slightly and he looks especially kind.

you wave at him and he waves back, and just as he’s about to turn back around he notices something ‘are you cold?’ he asks seeing how you’re sitting. you tell him you’re fine but he knows you’re not. you've been freezing for the past 20 minutes, too lazy to get up and do something about it.

immediately, seungcheol drops his fishing rod and does a half-jog towards the car to get you a blanket. ‘i’m fine! seriously!’ you try to stop him but he waves off your protests and hurries to the car, returning with a thick cozy blanket and some hot packs. he warms them up, giving you some before wrapping the blanket tight around you, making sure you’re all bundled up and toasty. after ensuring no cold wind can get through, he pulls your beanie down to cover your ears properly.

and then he takes a step back to admire how cuddly you look.

‘wait, i have to take a picture of this’ he pulls out his phone as you pose for him - smiling wide, your fingers in a peace sign. ‘so cuteeee’ he squeals, smiling at his screen fondly. ‘wow, my girlfriend is seriously cute’ you see him change his wallpaper.

you ask if he’s having better luck with fishing and he pouts, complaining to you about all the hurdles he’s facing - how the fish are being mean to him, how they're just eating the bait and swimming away, and how he caught one so easily last time. ‘seriously, it was this huge’ he shows you with his hands.

you pat the chair beside you ‘why don’t you take a break and try again later?’

‘should i?’ he takes a seat, holding his knees and groaning like an old man as he sits. it was a habit of his that you had really grown to love. ‘what are you writing?’ he points at your journal.

‘um, nothing in particular. just about life in general - this trip, stuff like that’ he nods attentively and a second later asks ‘am i in it?’ it’s endearing how hopeful he sounds.

‘mmmm, that’s a secret’ you whisper playfully, making him laugh.

‘come on, tell meee’ he pokes you over the blanket.

‘i can’t just tell you. you have to unlock the secret’ you tease. 

some whiny noises later he asks ‘okay, how do i unlock it?’ 

‘with a kiss’ you pucker your lips at him as a faint pink flush spreads across his cheeks.

‘ay! you just want to kiss me!’ 

despite his complaints, he leans forward giving you a sweet kiss and as you pull away he pouts ‘one more’ before going in for another peck. 

‘so?’

‘yeah, you’re in it’ you confess.

‘really?’ he smiles, his feet tapping the ground happily. you chuckle at his cuteness before looking back to the view in front of you.

‘it's really so beautiful here' you say as he hums in agreement.

‘but-’ he turns to you dramatically ‘-not as beautiful as you’ you both look at each for a second, cringing, before you burst out laughing. the sounds of laughter melt into a comfortable silence as he grabs your hand, intertwining his fingers in yours. you lean into him, resting your head on his shoulder.

it’s just the whistle of the wind, the rustle of leaves, sounds of slow-moving water, and birds chirping. and you feel so safe and happy that it’s almost overwhelming. seungcheol lets out a soft sigh as his shoulders drop, his body relaxing under you. 

‘i’m so happy right now’ he says quietly - not to you or to anyone in particular, but just into existence. 

you hold his hand tighter as he squeezes yours, bending to kiss the top of your head. as you both sit there in silence, you shut your eyes, trying to live in this moment forever.

[applepixls]

i think something like season 8's moon big thing is going to happen again this season-

in several magical mountain people's recent episodes (i remember mumbo mentioning it a couple episodes back and grian as well? not sure who else) they've mentioned that something weird/something big feels like its happening in the world (grian even made a straight up moon big reference) but i think this time it's going to be something with the ocean

this kind of starts at the very beginning of the season and follows through. in grian's very first episode he calls magical mountain a volcano and that idea has followed through and now they're hollowing it out. in another episode when he gets flung up in the air he makes a moon big reference. soo early season ideas/references seem to be following through to now

in episode 2, grian gathers a crowd of people (gem, etho, impulse, skizz, ren, cleo, cub) and they all just chat and fish and make jokes about how the ocean can get you addicted to fishing and pretend the ocean is a higher being that will provide fishing rods to those it sees worthy (we also see it a bit in the end of grians episode 1) eventually leading to ren saying "i don't know why im doing this but i don't want to stop" and cleo agreeing. etho originally had also been skeptical but quickly got dragged into the shenanigans and very happy with getting lily pads for some reason? it's just a fun random interaction but some of those things can lead to lore.

etho also says in this interaction "dont drink the koolaid" because gem randomly suggests to all eat a pufferfish which i don't fully understand the phrase but it comes from a guy who made a cult and lured his followers out into a jungle (etho loves jungles) and because cults always have a like Date where they believe their higher power is coming to save them and commit mass suicide on that day, the guy made a lot of poisoned koolaid and everyone died. so cults

in gem's most recent episode (19) she builds an artists house and says the artist looks out on the water for inspiration but as a result has become quite paranoid.

in season 8 they have a cult of people not sleeping because they think the moon is a higher power come to save them or something and early season 10 was a cult of people fishing, not to mention that certain patterns seem to repeat every other season (season 7 and 9 were both really long, in season 9 people were nostalgic for season 7 and in season 8 people were nostalgic for season 6 and certain storylines that could have some parallels drawn not to mention that everyone compares season 7 and 9 for the length and says that they were incredibly long perhaps suggesting that this season might be a bit shorter? its also the fact that in season 7 and 9 everyone built Starter Bases and then moved out to larger bases but in season 8 and now season 10 they seem to have made starter homes and expanded on them while still living out of their day one builds)

basically, tldr: something big is happening and i think the oceans doing it

theres something in the water and its making the freaking frogs gay (its making the block people all do __punk or east asian vibe stuff and bureaucratic/public service-y)

[babygirlbdubs]

Hello Technoblade voters!

So, your guy lost to the GoodTimes. Maybe you don’t know who to vote for now. I mean, if Technoblade isn’t immune to the good times… who is?

I propose to you: Ethoslab.

Now, if you don’t know who Etho is, lemme give you a rundown.

he’s one of THE og minecraft letsplayers. your favorite minecraft youtuber? yeah, etho is probably one of the reasons they got into mcyt. etho is your favorite mcyt’s favorite mcyt

he’s faceless, and has been for his entire 12+ year youtube career

he has only changed his skin once or twice in those 12 years, and the most recent one was to remove the extra face on his torso because he didn’t know how previously

that skin is literally just kakashi naruto

etho is a god at redstone. he basically invented half the redstone that’s used today. hopper clock? that’s etho’s. i mean… he’s invented a storage system that lets you search for a specific item. it’s called the googler because it’s basically a search engine.

he is an absolute NERD (/aff) and insanely smart

he is genuinely kind to his friends, and has a very sweet yet mischievous demeanor. though, even his friends will call him mysterious

he’s canadian so like… arctic/antarctic solidarity… right?

he has spent many many MANY years perfecting a PVP arena game called Battle Bane. look it up. it’s insane.

actually, all the minigames he’s made are pretty insane. and most of them involve death. i mean. he had one called Hurtin’ Hermits where the whole goal was to kill the other hermits as much as possible and enact chaos

I could go on and on about Etho and what he’s like. HOWEVER. I think it’s more interesting to tell you how he’s portrayed by the fandom.

etho tends to be portrayed as a quiet, broody, mysterious guy despite actually being a bit of a goofball

he’s drawn not as kakashi naruto, but more often, a hot twink that can range from sad puppy to sexy dude covered in blood in the span of a single post

some people headcanon him to be as old as the universe, and tied to the void

he has multiple popular animal traits, from catboy to bunny to most commonly arctic fox

there’s etho titty tuesday. there’s. i mean. there’s etho titty tuesday.

i mean really, just… go into the ethoslab tag and you can see all the ways he’s portrayed.

And if that’s not convincing enough, here are some things he’s done in canon to hopefully sway you.

in season 7 of hermitcraft, he had a shop called Shade-E-E’s, where people could sign other people up to basically get harassed (/lh) by Etho’s shenanigans. “Free Glass” meant panes of light grey glass hidden in all your chests so you couldn’t put things into the chest. “Gardening” meant beehives hidden throughout your base so you would hear buzzing at random. “Pest Relocation” meant spawning endermites in your home.

also in season 7, he had the shop Sneak-E-E’s, which was a secret popup shop where he undercut prices or sold rare item overstock. you could only buy while it existed, and only when you could find it. the first time it was built was up in the sky, all out of shulker boxes so it wouldn’t render in until you got close. the second time was in the unused floor of Mayor GoodTimesWithScar’s shop. scar had no idea for. a while.

in last life, he scammed scar out of a life to give to bdubs, and then promptly killed scar and stole the enchanter. oh yeah, he did it with a fishing rod, too.

in season 9, he moved into bdubs’ basement without telling bdubs

in season 9, he also started late. so, in order to catch up, he exiled himself to a place untouched by the other hermits and wouldn’t let himself come back until he was able to defeat a full raid on his own. it didn’t take him long.

in double life, he and joel were paired, and were the most chaotic duo on the server. they hunted people for sport (notably, grian and scar) and burned things down for fun. “the ship burns everything burns” chanted as they set the entire map on fire

in last life, he went around trying to intimidate people into giving him gifts and he would spare their life. pretty much everyone was instantly afraid of him.

actually, most of the hermits are pretty intimidated by etho. including goodtimeswithscar.

also, most of the hermits are ethogirls.

etho and scar end up on opposing sides in pretty much everything, especially the life series (which is a funky lil hardcore battle royale). they are traditionally enemies. they pick fights with each other for fun.

If you want vengeance for Technoblade— blood for the blood god— vote Ethoslab.

Sincerely, Ethogirls

[changingplumbob]

CW: Low level sim spice - Guide to content warnings

Silver: This is the part where you hold my hand right? For the barrier spells

Glenn: Yes, for the barrier spells. Which I can't concentrate on if you're talking

Silver smiled and used his thumb to rub the back of Glenn's hand, imagining it was another part of him.

Glenn: Yeah that's not helping either

Eventually they got through the spells and Glenn let go so he could focus on running. He was mostly able to keep pace with Silver, but he had a suspicion the werewolf was going slow for his benefit. Nearing a part of the path where the river was blocked off the pair slowed down.

Glenn: Wow

Silver: What is it

Glenn: Oh nothing. I just... sometimes nature just takes my breath away. This is one of those times. You see how the deciduous trees are mixed amongst the evergreens? And there not a cloud in the sky. The colours are magnificent

Silver: It is a nice view but there used to be more

Glenn: Really?

Silver: Yeah, they thinned it out a century ago to make it easier to reach the river

Glenn: Well that was stupid

Silver: Agreed

After the run the pair grabbed some fishing gear and headed to one of the fishing spots along the river.

Glenn: So you like fishing but you don't carry a fishing rod with you

Silver: Not normally. A few of my base camps around the place have rods stashed but otherwise I just watch and jump in at the fish

Glenn: That's a joke right

Silver: Why would it be a joke

Glenn: I mean wouldn't that be messy? You'd get drenched for starters not to mention the mud and silt at the bottom of the water

Silver: I hope that doesn't mean you object to getting messy

Glenn: Not generally, watcher knows I get messy working in the garden. But I do like looking nice

Silver: Mission accomplished, you look very nice. But...

Glenn: But what

Silver: I shouldn't, it's crass

Glenn: I can handle crass

Silver: *smirks* Fine. One day Glenn, I am going to get you very very messy

Glenn: What does that mean

Silver: It means we're going to have some fun and you will definitely want a long shower afterwards

Glenn felt butterflies in his stomach then, and a few a little lower as his pants got tight.

Glenn: Were you always so direct with your intentions

Silver: No. Back when romance was more a focus for me there were a lot of societal rules about what you could or couldn't say to someone you liked. You weren't even allowed to take a lady for a walk alone, and as for men... well that was still kept very hush hush

Glenn: Have you been with any since it was less hush hush

Silver: What happened to not discussing ex's

Glenn: That was only for people you could imagine having feelings for. I said nothing about what could be discussed with someone you do have feelings for

Silver: Something tells me the rules are the same

Glenn: Look at you, learning societal rules already

Silver: I just... I didn't always make sensible choices

Glenn: It's love, no one makes sensible choices

Silver: Love is debatable. It was definitely woohoo though

Glenn: Sounds like you'd be a good time in bed

Silver: *teasing* Why do you assume I did it in bed

Glenn: *flustered* Well it's just... I mean humans normally, you know... I mean you're a werewolf obviously but... oh wait I've got a bite!!!

Silver: Nice way to interrupt my conversation fish

Glenn pulled the line in carefully and was delighted to see a fish at the end. He really didn't want to be fishing up seaweed in front of Silver.

Glenn: Oh look it's a... I don't know what it is

Silver: *shrugs* treefish?

Glenn: Maybe. It's a cutie though, I don't think I could eat it

Silver: You know the point of fishing is food right

Glenn: Maybe but just look at him beefcake

Glenn: He's too adorable to eat, surely

Silver: So hang him on the wall

Glenn: Hang him on the wall?

Silver: Yeah. Loads of pubs have the biggest catches up on their walls

Glenn: But... I think he'd be lonely

Silver: Well he'd be, you know, unalive. He wouldn't feel lonely

Glenn: Hmm... maybe I'll just keep him

Silver: Keep him?

Glenn: Yeah! I could get him his own little fishbowl. Of course I'd have to shrink him with magic a bit to get him to fit. What shall we call him?

Silver: We?

Glenn: I mean there's the obvious names like River, or we could be ironic and go for something like Robin or Sage

Silver: I am not naming our fish

Glenn: That's okay, I'll just ask the watcher

Hey watcher, watcher! Look what I caught That's pretty impressive for barely level 3 fishing skill Ha! I knew you were there still. So, what shall I call him? How about... Oakley? Because he looks like a tree! I love it

Silver: What did the watcher say then

Glenn: You didn't hear her just now?

Silver: No. I didn't hear anyone

Glenn: Well she said he should be called Oakley and I agree

Previous ... Next

[unclewaynemunson]

Something’s off. Steve notices it as soon as he gets home. It’s nothing major, really, but something’s definitely off. There’s this weird silence in the hallway, instead of the usual metal that Eddie is basically blasting 24/7 whenever Steve isn’t home. There’s the absence of Olly showing his little face around the corner of the door to the kitchen upon hearing Steve coming in. There’s also the absence of some crazy scent explosion emerging from the kitchen like on a usual Tuesday evening.

Steve calls out Eddie’s name, questioning, not sure if he should be worried.

“Here!”

He releases a relieved breath and gets into the living room. Eddie is his usual messy self, wild curls hanging over one end of the couch and feet wrapped in colorful socks over the other, with Olly curled up and purring on his chest.

“Hey there,” Steve says. It isn’t until he comes closer to lean down for a kiss on Eddie’s forehead, that he notices something is most definitely very, very wrong. Eddie’s eyes are swollen and red-rimmed, salty traces covering his cheeks and used tissues scattered all over the floor next to the couch. His hands are clenching into Olly’s fur, his chest is heaving unsteadily.

Eddie looks up at Steve, blinks once, twice, to get the water out of his eyes, a fresh tear rolling down his cheek.

“What happened, love?” Steve covers Eddie’s hands with his own, creating their familiar pile of Olly-Eddie-Steve, his thumb stroking over the back of Eddie’s hand.

Eddie takes a deep, shuddering breath, squeezes his eyes shut for a second. “Wayne’s sick.”

XXX

The thing is, Wayne has always been the strong one. Always. He was the arms that caught Eddie, the hands that wiped away his tears, the lips that kissed his bruises better despite his prickly beard. And now he’s - frail. There’s simply no other word for it. And Eddie doesn’t think he’s ready to be the strong one yet. That’s not how it’s supposed to be. Of course he knows that Wayne isn’t some immortal being, that he’s lived a life of harsh physical labor and cold Indiana winters, of canned beans and breakfast cigarettes since he was only a boy... But this is different. This isn’t how it was supposed to go. And Wayne knows that, too.

“I always thought it was gonna be my lungs that’d do me in,” he tells Eddie.

Eddie never thought of his uncle as an old man. But now, sitting next to his hospital bed, both his hands clasped around Wayne’s, he sees it. He sees the lines on his forehead, the near-white shade of grey of what little hair he has left on his head, the tired look in his eyes, the age spots scattered all over his arms...

Eddie releases one of his hands to wipe over his eyes. He feels another pair of hands squeezing his shoulders from behind him, reminding him that he isn’t alone, that there’s still someone else who can be the strong one when Eddie can’t.

He takes a breath.

“Nothing’s doin’ you in, man,” he manages to choke out, strengthening his grip on Wayne’s hands. Those strong, calloused hands, that have lived through so much. The hands that caught him countless times. The hands that held him tight whenever he needed it. The hands that wiped away his tears. The hands that fixed his van. The hands that ruffled his curls. The hands that held a fishing rod like a pro. The hands that tirelessly drilled holes in walls and assembled furniture when Eddie moved out of the trailer and into the apartment he and Steve got in Indianapolis. The hands that are currently resting limply on top of white hospital sheets. Frail hands.

“Ed...”

“No, I’m serious,” Eddie says. He’s always been good at running. No way in hell he’s gonna stop that habit now. "You're gonna get better. And when you do, we'll take you back home, okay? Not to Hawkins - to your real home. You, me, Steve and the van, right? You’ll see the mountains again. We’re gonna drive all the way across them, get you back to the other side, ya hear me? It’ll be this great adventure, just the three of us. We’ll stay there for as long as we want to. And then we’ll go back to Indy, and you’ll move in with us, and we’ll take care of you. And you’ll be there when we get a real house, you’ll be there when we get our first little nugget, and every next one of them, and you’ll get to play with them and see them grow up and see us goin’ grey and gettin’ old and wrinkled and fat, and you’ll be there when Lord of the Rings gets made into a movie and when world hunger gets solved and when gay marriage becomes legal and when we get our first black president and when The Police reunites... That’s how it’s gonna go, you understand?”

There’s this look in Wayne’s eyes, this look that completely terrifies Eddie, and he can’t do a thing except for collapsing onto his uncle’s chest, breathing in his scent and crying against his shirt as Wayne’s hand tangles itself in Eddie’s curls. And it doesn’t matter - it doesn’t matter that Wayne is weak and sick and lying in a hospital bed. Because he’s still the strong one. He’s still the hands that catch Eddie when Eddie breaks down. Even now.

XXX

They should’ve known that Eddie would be right. Of course they should’ve known. No God can turn down someone as stubborn as Eddie Munson - not even a God Eddie doesn’t believe in.

Wayne missed the mountain air, the perfectly prepared corn fritters, the drool in the voices around him, the natural hospitality. It’s good to be back, to get to share his roots with his boys. But it’s not like coming home. Home is where his own parents moved him some fifty years ago, with dreams of a better future that didn’t quite hold for them. Home is a rickety trailer park that doesn’t have warm water most of the time. Home is the woods around Hawkins, the rolling hills, the chilly autumn wind. But most of all, home is the smile of the boy who took him here. It’s long dark curls and big brown eyes that are currently tearing up because Wayne is standing next to him and getting stronger by the day and very much alive. It’s the memories they share, of Wayne opening his arms to catch Eddie when he was so much smaller than now; of going fishing at Lover’s Lake in the weekends; of cigarette stubs and beer bottles and metal boxes that Wayne chose to not know the contents of; of laughter and crying and fear and comfort and a whole shared lifetime, a boy growing up and still needing to be caught again and again and again.

And Wayne still does it. He still catches his boy. His two boys, now. And he’s planning on keeping to do that for a long, long time.

[frozenjokes]

A Song Called Love, So That You Know At Least I See You, That I Am Here

There was only one set of footsteps crunching through the brush today, and Mumbo was well aware of who it was before Grian appeared in the clearing. Grian alone was a bit of a stressful event; he didn’t come by alone often (Scar had never come alone before), but it seemed like every other time they had met one on one, he and Mumbo just.. didn’t quite get along. Grian was too scared of him, too protective of Scar, and while Mumbo did like and trust Grian, he felt himself somewhat similarly wary.

It was hard sometimes, to be comfortable around him. It was so easy with Scar, Scar who was bright and open and wore his heart proudly on his sleeve, and yes, sometimes he was too bright, sometimes the sun stung his eyes, but that was just human love. Brash and loud and overwhelming sometimes, but also safe, like curling up tight under a snug overhang and knowing everything is going to be okay.

Grian did not love him.

Sometimes, Mumbo wasn’t sure if Grian even liked him. Grian certainly didn’t trust him. Mumbo felt the weight of his glare often from the top of the outcrop where he fished, Scar talking nonsense proudly, completely obvious to Grian’s furrowed brow behind him, looking directly into Mumbo’s eyes. Scar was an intense experience in every sense of the word, and Mumbo often found himself exhausted after being in his company, but Grian was a whole different beast, his intensity concentrated in those eyes, dark and unhappy. Unhappier, this week.

Mumbo had thought they’d been making progress. Sure, he was stuck resting in one spot because of his injuries, but Scar had been nothing but delightful, and Grian was.. well, still Grian. Ignoring him, mostly. But there was an understanding there, a certain peace that didn’t have him throwing over wide-eyed, frightened glances, jumping at every splash, and startling at every vocalization that didn’t belong to Scar. And Mumbo was fine with that. He didn’t need to be loved or even liked- to be accepted as a presence was enough.

Mumbo wasn’t sure if Scar had noticed anything was wrong last week. He was not a very perceptive human, and Mumbo understood, he had his own moments of obliviousness, but even in Mumbo’s worst moments, he couldn’t have missed it. Grian didn’t want him here. A sentiment as obvious as the tightness in his own chest, right now, as Grian dropped his stuff in the grass and walked to the shore wearing the same dark look.

He had nothing. No fishing rod, no fish, no mystery items. The waves crashed at his feet as he marched forward, like a soldier to battle. Mumbo half expected Grian to keep walking, to wade so deep that the water would go right over his head. But he didn’t.

Grian sat a respectful distance away. This was the first time he’d even come into the water in a long time, at least a week. Something in Mumbo ached for him to come closer like Scar would, to invade his space with loud words and wild gestures, to make him uncomfortable, to show him that reckless human love and make this feel any amount better.

(But Grian did not love him, nor did Mumbo love Grian.)

“Do mermaids fall in love?” A question, Mumbo recognized the intonation, but one that would never be answered. Even if he understood, Grian would not be able to decipher his response. The barrier between their species often frustrated Mumbo, but today it made him feel utterly helpless. Something was wrong, something was clearly wrong, and there wasn’t a single thing he could do about it.

While it was obvious Grian was not in any sort of good mood, he pointed down with his thumb to indicate how he was feeling. Mumbo copied the gesture, not particularly happy himself.

Grian considered him for a moment, then nodded. He wasn’t looking at Mumbo when he spoke next, his eyes far away.

“I wouldn’t say I fall fast. Not really. But I fall hard. I’ve been in love maybe once or twice, and it’s great when it’s great. But it also makes you feel like you’re dying sometimes. Just bleeding out on the concrete, gaping hole in your chest where your heart used to be. It hurts like that, like being run over and left on the road in the sun, and you’re hot and dehydrated and you’re so- you would be okay if you could just get up. And you can, you’re not actually injured, you could get right up and get some water and pull yourself together, but you’re so damn sick in your chest you’re still just curled up on the shower floor. You thought maybe if you turned the water off you wouldn’t want to be there anymore, that you’d get cold and uncomfortable and you’d get up, but another hour passes and you’re still just.. kinda cold and wet. And nothing has changed. Because you’re still in love.”

Mumbo stared. Grian stared back.

“Do mermaids fall in love?” Grian needed an answer. Mumbo could not give one. “I want to be eaten alive. It would hurt less. I want you to eat me alive.” Grian laid back, the water just shallow enough that his head was barely above the water. Small waves washed over his face, and occasionally he would sputter, but ultimately, did not move.

“Do,” Grian had to stop, holding his breath as a wave glided over his face, “Mermaids fall in love?”

Mumbo pulled himself forward like the tide, smooth and quiet and slow, his tail dragging stiffly behind him. Their eyes met, the whites of Grian’s eyes distinctly visible. He looked like a dying animal, something resigned to its fate, but still afraid of what’s to come. How oddly clear it was, depression. Even between species, it looked so similar. Grian did not blink when the water washed over his eyes. Did not break eye contact.

Mumbo reached forward.

An experimental touch, barely grazing his sweater. Mumbo had never seen him get it wet before; he had assumed it was one of many human items that could not go in the water, though Scar got his clothes wet all of the time, the only piece of clothing usually left on the shore being his shirt.

Last week, Scar didn’t take it off. Mumbo had thought that was strange.

Grian’s breathing quickened as Mumbo laid his hand entirely across his chest. Mumbo did not break their eye contact. Grian did not raise his hand to indicate good or bad, though, in this state, Mumbo wasn’t sure if he could. That was okay. This wouldn’t take long.

‘I’m going to take care of you.’

Grian did not want to be touched, and Mumbo did not want to touch him, so instead he took the neck of Grian’s sweater, pulling from the back with as little force as he could manage until they were firmly where the gentle waves met the sand. Grian did not fight. Humans didn’t dry out easily, but regardless, Grian wouldn’t overheat here, still half in the water. Mumbo laid beside him, though on his stomach rather than on his back as Grian was.

Mumbo was well acquainted with the songs for a depression. He didn’t know a mer who wasn’t. But there was a particular song that struck deeper, that resonated stronger, and if Mumbo knew anything about mermaid song, it was that those melodies, the ones you felt in your soul; those were most effective.

So he did all he knew how to do. He sang.

It was not a cure. It might not even make you feel any better. Sometimes, being sung to made the ache more intense, the stillness heavier; you knew you weren’t well, and they, be them friends or doctors or even strangers, knew it too. They saw you. It’s a vulnerable thing to be seen.

Mumbo had heard many things said about Love. That it was not strong like healing, that there was no magic in the chords that would ease your pain. It was not useful like songs for rest, songs for hunting, bursts of sounds for hurting or soothing tones for insomnia. Love didn’t do anything. It was not special. It was not practical, or particularly efficient as far as solutions went.

But sometimes you don't want to heal. Sometimes you don't want to sleep or relax or even feel good. How much did it really matter if Love worked or if it held any magic at all in its chords. Sometimes what you really needed was to be known. And everyone knew Love.

Mumbo hadn’t even thought before he started to sing, of how Grian had reacted the first time, how even Scar had been so afraid of his song, regardless of his intention to help them. Mumbo didn’t know how much time had passed before he even remembered, but Grian hadn’t moved, and at this point, Mumbo was not worried. Grian’s eyes were closed, his breathing slow, and Mumbo would sing as long as he was needed.

…

Time did pass, Mumbo’s throat dry, but he noticed neither sensation, overcome instead with an all encompassing peace. Mumbo did not often sing. He wasn’t very good, nor motivated to get better. But it really had been.. too long. No mermaid should keep so much of themself inside for so long, not even mers who didn’t consider themselves musicians. So he moved on from Love, keeping the tones consistent, but letting the deeper feelings through as well, the joy, the pain, communication that felt like a constant fight against the strongest currents, his hurt, his confusion, his homesickness, but mostly his own love. Love for the world, for life, for humans, their trinkets and games, their banter, their love-

Mumbo worked through everything he hadn’t gotten the chance to properly feel, singing loud, unabashedly, just like a human. And then, he circled back to Love. It always came back to Love for Mumbo.

Then he stopped, near abrupt at the brush of fingers against his elbow. Grian withdrew his hand as quick as the touch; he had wanted Mumbo’s attention, clearly, but maybe he couldn’t speak yet. Or.. Maybe he..

Slowly, Mumbo moved his arm, extending it just enough, pointing his thumb upwards. ‘It’s okay.’

Grian looked at him differently then, not staring anymore, just looking, eyes half lidded. Mumbo followed his line of sight as it moved to their hands, Grian’s own inching forward. His was dwarfed by Mumbo’s, fingers shorter, softer, but no less nimble, no less curious. Mumbo braced himself for the touch, but contact was careful, gentle, and with it came no fear, no urge to flee. He wanted this. He had been curious to know human touch for so long. He had meant to ask, tried to ask even, but Scar was too much, too eager, and just too utterly overwhelming- Mumbo couldn’t do it. Maybe he should have realized a while ago that the contact he longed to know wasn’t going to come from Scar.

Humans did not heal with song, that much had long since been clear. Mumbo could count on one hand he’d heard Scar sing, Grian hadn’t tried at all, and both of them had been afraid to hear Mumbo sing. It wasn’t something primal for them, integral. That was a foreign idea to Mumbo. You did not have mermaids without song, you just.. didn’t.

Maybe you didn’t have humans without touch.

Grian’s fingers were curious over his own, feather-light over the ridges of his nails, knuckles, and tickling the webbing between. They retreated when Mumbo made a fist, but returned at a second thumbs up, just as careful and curious as before. Grian did not need to ask. The boundary was already communicated better than they could with words.

It was a relief to not have to talk.

Mumbo was prepared for when Grian wrapped his fingers around Mumbo’s own, his palm resting gently on the top of Mumbo’s hand. He’d seen this gesture often between Grian and Scar, though not in the last week, not with Grian’s foul mood.

It didn��t feel like magic, not like how it looked between humans. Mumbo had expected something.. more? But this was still alright. Beside him, Grian’s shoulders sagged, his body curling in on itself just slightly, with the exception being the arm holding Mumbo’s hand.

“I just don’t know what to do,” Grian sighed, though he wasn’t looking at Mumbo, wasn’t expecting an answer, “I’ve talked to so many people. Pearl, Jimmy, Joel, Impulse.. None of them seem to know either. I mean, Pearl and Impulse work at the zoo, and we’re all- Scar included- close. So many mutual friends, I just feel like I’m making a complete mess of everything. Impulse said I can’t help how I feel. It’s no one’s fault. And I know that. I mean, of course I know that, but knowing it doesn’t make me just magically feel less like a piece of shit. Less angry. Less guilty about being angry. Less guilty in general- every moment I spend with Scar feels like pulling teeth, everything he says landing like punches to the gut; reminders of what I can’t have. I want nothing to do with him. I want everything to do with him.”

Grian closed his eyes, head falling impossibly deeper into the sand. He squeezed Mumbo’s hand, and Mumbo wasn’t quite sure what that meant, so he squeezed back. Grian opened his eyes. “So damn sweet. You’re just so damn sweet,” Grian still spoke to the sky, but a glance in Mumbo’s direction indicated who he was addressing. Mumbo didn’t quite know the meaning, but the tone was soft.

“Pearl thinks I should put some distance between us. Not cut him off, obviously, of course not, just take some time away until I can be normal again. And maybe not.. I don’t know, spend weeks hanging out with him alone- no offense, but I’m not counting you as a factor in this equation. Maybe I shouldn’t be alone with him at all anymore. Just keep our interactions to group hangouts, keep it casual. It just hurts, you know? It just hurts. It hurts now, too, but it’s scarier not knowing exactly how I’m going to be hurting. Gem agrees with Pearl, of course. They’re smart.”

Grian quieted, squinting against the sky. It was a cloudy day, but the surface was always bright. Mumbo honestly didn’t know how humans could stand it. His eyes had adjusted from being up here for so long, but oftentimes when he came up from the deep, he found himself nearly blind for hours, and even then, his vision was spotty at best. It was the best it had ever been this past week, vague shapes and colors turning into something more defined. It was odd to know sunlight that didn’t hurt. He would miss it.

The slight disturbance of water as Grian turned his head brought Mumbo’s attention back. There it was again, the staring. No. Looking. Grian was just looking.

“I don’t know why I came to you. Honestly, it was a completely silly thing to do in the first place. I wanted to know what you would say, I guess, but obviously I can’t- we can’t know. You probably don’t have any idea what’s even going on between Scar and I. I don’t even know if mermaids feel love, if they mate for life or anything. We- humans, I mean, don’t even know how you guys reproduce. Humans tend to think you fall in love like us, though. They really want to think you’d fall in love with us, actually, it’s a little funny,” Grian chuckled, releasing a long exhale, though not quite a sigh, “I think if I tried to put mermaids on a ranking of animals that get most heavily anthropomorphized, you’d be right up at the top along with like.. dogs and things. I’ve always been against that sort of thing. Taking an animal and assuming they think and feel and want exactly like humans do is harmful about 99% of the time, and it is harmful, obviously you and I as species are impossibly different it’s just..” Grian trailed off a small smile crossing his face, “You’re holding my fucking hand right now like a person, and that’s kinda nuts. It’s funny. I don’t even think you want to. It’s funny.”

Mumbo wasn’t entirely sure what to do with that. But Grian was smiling, and that was good. Maybe touch was magic. Though, the smile didn’t last, and Grian was back to looking at the sky.

“Maybe what I really came here to do was apologize. I don’t have any doubt you know exactly what it means for me to sit up on those rocks and glare at you like you’re the source of all my problems. Like I wish you’d just disappear, because then I wouldn’t be trapped here with someone who doesn’t love me the way I wish he would. I’d have an excuse to stop seeing him every day. An excuse to pull away. To leave and not feel like I’m missing out on something that’s like- objectively incredible. The fact that I’m even here right now, laying in the sand, talking to a fucking mermaid- this shouldn’t be possible. This shouldn’t be real. I’d be crazy to just.. leave. But I have to. I can’t keep going like this.”

“I don’t know exactly when I’ll work up the nerve to talk to Scar. To tell him I’m not going to come here anymore, but.. I don’t know. Until then, I’ll stop treating you like the enemy. I hope.. it feels silly to even say this, because you have negative reasons to like me, but I hope you won’t miss me. I hope I don’t hurt you. And this isn’t goodbye yet, obviously, I can’t just fuck off without telling Scar I’m going to leave, and who knows how long that’ll take me. I’m a little bit of a coward, I think. I don’t know. Sometimes it feels impossibly difficult to navigate the world,” Grian laughed, but it wasn’t a happy sound, “Just rambling now. Sorry.”

‘You sound like you want me to respond, so here I am, responding. Be satisfied.’

“Thanks, Mumbo.” Grian was quiet, closing his eyes once more against the bright sky. Assumedly satisfied. “Is it okay if I stay for a while?” Another question, but it was not emotionally charged, and Mumbo got the sense Grian wasn’t expecting an answer. So Mumbo relaxed. Grian did the same.

For the second time today, Mumbo felt a soft pang of longing for the deep, for the cold, the dark, the safety of a colony, the comfort of unhindered communication and understanding. Of hunting, of fresh fish. His tail wasn’t healing, not as fast as it would under the care of mermaid song, and no matter how much the humans tried, their help would never be what Mumbo needed.

Similarly, no matter how much he wanted to, Mumbo did not think he could provide the help the humans needed either. He could not break up their fights, he could not stop their tears, he could not hold them the way they held each other. He couldn’t know what they needed. Even if he knew, he wasn’t exactly sure he could accommodate them. Mumbo needed other mermaids. Maybe.. they needed other humans. Maybe curiosity was keeping them both coming back, just like it kept Mumbo planted in the sand, all three of them neglecting their own needs in favor of this new, exciting experience.

But it didn’t have to end. Mumbo was sure it wouldn’t end. He would take his time, he would really heal, then he would return, refreshed and ready to give this another shot. If he was gone, maybe the humans would be forced to care for themselves as well. To sing, or touch, or do whatever it was that healed them.

…

Mumbo had no idea how much time passed before Grian moved, letting go of Mumbo’s hand and sitting up. He was disgustingly sandy, and Grian shared Mumbo’s distaste, lip gently curled as he struggled to brush wet sand off his now filthy sweater. Then he stopped, abrupt as he remembered where he was, a much better solution right at his feet. Grian took a deep breath before running (still limping, Mumbo couldn’t help but notice) to deeper water. The way he dove in was reminiscent of Scar, and Mumbo shimmied back around and to see Grian’s open mouthed smile, maybe laughing, bubbles erupting from his mouth in an expression like joy. Mumbo’s chest fluttered, and he wasted no time pulling himself along the bottom to join him in this spontaneous moment of play.

He’d never seen Grian swim before. He wasn’t as strong of a swimmer as Scar, movements clumsy and hardly calculated, but he didn’t seem to care at all, jumping and diving, and clearing the sand from his hair with reckless abandon. Mumbo flexed his own fins, stiff and weak from lack of use, but he still had partial access to his rear fin beyond the end of his splint, and with small movements, propelled himself slowly forward- anything to join Grian in his joy. Grian didn’t seem to mind Mumbo’s presence at all, zero trace of fear where it had been overpowering in days prior, and Mumbo found himself caring less as well, venturing closer than he ever would have dared next to a swimming Scar.

It was like play, like dance, like everything good about life, and Mumbo hardly noticed when the fins along his back grazed Grian’s feet, instead amused by Grian’s yelp of surprise and the following flurry of bubbles. The touch wasn’t on purpose, but Grian must have thought it was, diving back down to give Mumbo a piece of his mind (even more gibberish than normal), until Mumbo kicked forward, using the flowy end of his tail to smack Grian gently in the face. His expression was worth every pin prick of pain and discomfort.

After getting air, Grian dove back down to give chase, though even in Mumbo’s current state, he had absolutely zero hope of catching up. Of course, Mumbo would never ruin a game by leaving Grian in the dust, so he swam slowly in circles to give him the illusion of catching up, staying shallow enough that Grian would always be reasonably close to the surface. Grian grew delightfully frustrated, squabbling and flailing then crossing his arms with puffed out cheeks, of course, unable to pout for long before needing to get air. Mumbo turned, eyeing him fondly from his place in the sand before pushing up to the surface, taking one of Grian’s hands in his own for a second’s touch, then coiling back around, once again grazing the human’s body with the tips of his fins.

‘Goodbye Red.’

Mumbo didn’t see Grian’s reaction, but he felt the flailing disturbance of the water, and even recognized his name, “Mumbo?” through the distortion of underwater speech. Good. Very good.

It was time to go home.

[ghostofskywalker]

First Life Day

Crosshair/Reader

Words: 1,618

Summary: It's the Bad Batch's first Life Day on Pabu, and you want to get something special for one of them. The only problem is that you have absolutely no idea what.

Note: this is a @cloneficgiftexchange gift for @starrylothcat! You will likely get another gift at some point in the future, but i am assisting your original gifter by making sure that you get a little something extra in this exchange :)

Clone Troopers Masterlist

What should one purchase a slightly reclusive, often sarcastic, ex-Empire clone sniper for Life Day? Kriff if you knew.

And to make the stakes that much higher, you had feelings for him. If this gift didn’t go over perfectly you faced the potential of losing the friendship you had spent so much time cultivating, and that was not a fate you wanted to experience.

Ever.

But the issue was, you were completely stumped on a gift, and you couldn’t just go up to Crosshair and ask him what he wanted for Life Day. Best case scenario, he looks at you with a confused expression before muttering something tiny. Worst case scenario, he tells you that he doesn’t want anything from you, and that you had misread every interaction you’ve ever had with him. Neither of them were really great, if you were weighing the options here.

You couldn’t even ask his brothers for ideas, because they were all brand new to the concept of Life Day as well. That, and you didn’t really want to admit why you were so stressed out about what to get Crosshair. The things you had purchased for Hunter, Echo, Wrecker, Tech, and Omega were all simple and functional, nice things that you hoped they would be able to utilize in their daily lives but still would have never purchased for themselves. But in your mind, Crosshair’s gift had to be different, had to be perfect for him in a way that he would never forget.

You had first spoken to him a few months ago, after spending ages watching the stoic newcomer sit on the docks to watch the sun rise and set. Because fishing was your primary trade, the odd hours you kept made it so you crossed paths with him quite a few times, and eventually you mustered up the courage to greet him kindly and make sure that he knew he could come to you if he needed anything.

It took a few more interactions for you to really get through to him, but soon you were at the point where you considered him a friend. And since he would sometimes seek you out at random points in the day to talk or ask questions about whatever was troubling about his new way of life, you liked to think that he considered you a friend as well. And as you walked through Pabu’s open-air market, you could feel the pressure of getting the perfect gift only growing in your mind.

Some of the options were purely functional, and that was an option, but you weren’t sure if that would really communicate to him what you were trying to get across. Some things were purely aesthetic, and as much as you believed that he deserved to own nice things, you weren’t sure if he would want those either. Earlier this year you had given a home decoration to Hunter just because you thought he and Omega would like it, and it took a moment for him to really understand what the purpose of it was. Crosshair seemed like the type of person who might value something more if it was some combination of pretty and useful. But even then, what should you get him?

A fishing rod would be functional, but would he enjoy it? You enjoyed fishing, but of course there were certainly people on the island whose skills and interest lay in other areas, and maybe that was the case for Crosshair. His eyesight was keen, but what if he wanted to move away from that kind of activity and start something more artistic?

You passed by all sorts of trinkets and treasures, wondering the whole time about what he might want, when eventually you laid eyes on a simple black bag. It looked unassuming at first, similar to the satchel you had purchased for Echo, but a smile crossed your face when you saw what was inside.

A deep blue blanket, made of the softest material you’ve ever felt, appeared in your vision, and you instantly knew that this was a perfect gift. Yeah, maybe it wasn’t as useful as the things you had for his brothers, but there was no doubt in your mind that he deserved it. You’ve been to the house where they were staying, you knew that Crosshair had taken to sleeping on the couch (despite the fact that his brothers always offered to procure a bed for him), and maybe this would help make that experience just a little more comfortable. You could see that he sometimes struggled to allow himself simple comforts, and maybe if you handed one directly to him, he would be more apt to relax.

After talking with the seller and purchasing the blanket, you walked back to your home, content in the fact that you were going to (hopefully) play in important role in making sure that Crosshair’s first Life Day was as wonderful as it should be.

***

Despite its origins as a Wookie holiday, the people of Pabu always went all out when it came to Life Day, especially in the last few years. It was a source of happiness in a time where things often looked bleak, and spending time with one’s loved ones while sharing gifts and a meal certainly helped stave off some of the mounting dread about the Empire’s growing reach and inevitable dominion.

And this year, you had certainly gone all out. Anything you could put on the walls to make the inside of your home brighter, you did. By the time the Bad Batch were knocking on your door, you had put up so many sparkly decorations that you wondered if you would be blinding them as they arrived.

But of course, it was all worth it to see the reaction you got from Omega as she stepped inside. “Wow! This is amazing!”

She raced over to you, and you gave her a hug. “I know, right? And this isn’t even the best part!”

Her eyes got wider, something you didn’t even think was possible. “Really?”

You nodded, telling her to wait right there while you got something from another room. Gift usually came around after the meal was finished, but sometimes traditions were made to be broken.

The rest of the Batch had just finished settling down in your living room as you stepped back into the room, arms laden with bags and wrapped gifts. “I have something for all of you.”

Echo’s eyes grew wide. “What?”

“Part of Life Day is giving presents,” you said brightly. “And I wanted to make sure you guys got the whole experience.”

“But we didn’t get you anything,” said Omega, and you could see worry start to form in her eyes.

“I don’t mind,” you said. “But I’ve always liked giving gifts better anyway.”

You could see most of that worry evaporate from her face, and you handed out the bags and boxes to each of the recipients. You watched with a smile on your face as everyone opened their gifts, and you were overjoyed knowing that everyone liked them. Omega gave you a big hug as she opened the small fishing rod, because she had been begging you to teach her to fish for some time, and she couldn’t stop hugging the small plush creature you had wrapped alongside it.

You watched Crosshair out of the corner of your eye, wanting to see his reaction when he opened the blanket, and your nerves were soothed as you watched him smile when he took the blanket out of the bag. He didn’t put it down, and you really hoped that meant you had picked the right gift for him.

Hunter, Tech, and Echo refused to let you finish cooking the meal (which you weren’t really complaining about), and Wrecker was playing with Omega somewhere outside, which meant that you and Crosshair were by yourselves in your living room. As you sat next to him on the couch, you wondered if you were going to be the one to speak first, and what you would even say.

But surprisingly, he was the one who broke the silence. “Thank you, for all the gifts.”

“You all deserve to have a nice Life Day,” you said. “And I hope I succeeded in making that happen.”

“You certainly did,” he said softly. “I don’t think I can ever repay you for the kindness you’ve shown me since I arrived.”

“I don’t need to be repaid,” you responded. “You will always deserve kindness Crosshair, no matter what you think about yourself.” Your words were a little more personal than usual, but you had talked to Hunter enough about his past, and seen him out in the middle of the night too many times to not realize what was going through his head sometimes.

If he was surprised about what you said, he hid it well. “Thank you,” he said, and you knew that this tiny gesture was coming from a place of sincerity. He fluffed the blanket out so that it covered both of you, and you couldn’t help but smile at the way he couldn't stop running his fingers across the soft material.

You didn’t need a confession of love or some kind of grand gesture from him, especially not when he was still working on healing his own troubles and adjusting to his new life. The smile on his face and the clear happiness he was feeling was worth so much more to you anyway.

Maybe things would change between you in the near future, but at this moment in time, you couldn’t help but believe that you were exactly where you’re supposed to be. 

- the end -

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[hanilessa]

birthday morning with you, my love.

` Childe x Fem!Reader

` Genre: fluff, romance

` Author’s notes: happy birthday, man of my heart ♡

Today you feel happy like never before. A pleasant languor warmed your heart, and you were in a really good mood. Because today was your boyfriend's birthday.

And you were going to make this day filled with all the best events, memories and happiness. You wanted Tartaglia to remember this birthday for a long time.

You got out of bed, carefully slipping out of your lover's arms. You moved carefully and silently so as not to disturb his sleep.

Your heart fluttered with excitement as the ginger man let out a sleepy moan and his hand reached out to find you and pull you closer to him.

You wanted to stay by his side, but you needed to cook a birthday breakfast for him, so you didn't have that luxury. You quickly pushed your pillow towards him to divert his attention and hurried out of bed.

It didn't take long to cook his favorite dish, you put a vase of flowers and two glasses of dandelion wine on the table to create a romantic atmosphere. Now you had to check his birthday gift. You looked into the closet, noticing that the fishing rod was in the same place.

You knew how much Tartaglia loved fishing, and that's why you decided to give him the fishing rod. The fishing rod was quite modern, and it took you a long time to save money for this, but you didn't regret the time spent at all.

It was nothing compared to the fact that you can see the happy smile on Childe's face.

You happily nodded your thoughts and hurried to the shared bedroom to wake up your lover. When you entered the room, you noticed to your surprise that the man was no longer asleep.

He heard you enter the bedroom and turned to look at you. His blue eyes squinted slyly.

"And I was wondering where my bird had flown to so early." He smiled pretty as your cheeks flushed bright red. He beckoned you closer to him and you couldn't resist. Your legs were trembling slightly, but you kept walking towards the bed.

"I wanted to surprise you, Ajax…" You said slightly confused and embarrassed, sitting on the edge of the bed. "And I didn't mean to wake you up, I'm sorry."

You noticed a sly glint in Childe's eyes.

"Without you in bed I was so lonely. You're too cruel to me, baby." He pouted and looked offended, and you caught your breath.

In the light of the rising sun, Ajax looked like the most beautiful person to you. His ginger hair shimmered with copper in the rays of the sun, and it was like a bright fire that flared up in a huge fire.

His blue eyes reflected both the ocean surface and the raging waves. A scattering of freckles on his face wanted to kiss and not stop.

"I'm sorry…" You once again asked for his forgiveness, being, as if under hypnosis. His attractiveness was truly captivating. When the ginger man noticed your red cheeks, he smiled contentedly.

"You know, baby, I'm still a little offended, but I know another way you can apologize to me." He whispered into your lips, and his lips found yours in a kiss.

A pleasant feeling spread throughout your body, you could feel your boyfriend's satisfied smile through the kiss, and after that, the thought came to you that he planned this from the very beginning to get your kiss. However, you didn't mind, with pleasure surrendering to a pleasant kiss with your lover.

You broke the kiss, causing Childe to whimper in displeasure and lean in for a kiss. But you pulled away and smiled. You had to say those three words to him.

"Happy birthday, Ajax."

And immediately after these words, your lips again found his lips in a kiss filled with happiness, joy and love.