#i was literally so mad when i realized my feet got soft(er) and i could no longer walk on our sharp ass driveway or on shitty asphault

[rainbowgothdisaster]

i am 19 years old and have never and will never understand the desire to have soft feet

like?? thats ur protection. soft feet means ur weak lil bitch (/j) and asphault will murder you

[writing-gifts]

crushed (bruno x gn!reader)

A/N: the best way to sum this is up is reader highly struggles with their feelings and romantic intimacy

-----

When you first met Bruno there weren't any instant clicks but he was polite enough, so you felt neutral towards him like you did most people. However, with more and more interactions you quickly began to enjoy his presence and found yourself spending time with him outside of work.

It was rare for you to become this comfortable around anyone, but within a short amount of time you felt you could be your complete and honest self when you were alone with the man. And by now, the two of you would seek out each other's company when either of you had free time.

You could barely remember the last time you had gotten this close with someone since you joined Passione so this relationship had become quite precious to you. But sometimes, in the middle of the night as you tried to fall asleep, you would wonder what it would be like to pursue something more romantic. You always imagined ridiculous and improbable things during that time though so you mostly ignored these thoughts. Honestly, you were lucky to have even just this as a mafioso.

One day, during a rare occurrence where you got to see Giorno, he says something to you that makes that strange idea stick in your mind.

“So you and Bruno get along well,” the blonde teen suddenly brings up.

You stop eating your ice cream. You’re a little apprehensive since Giorno is never one to talk unless he actually has something substantial to say. But you nod and smile.

“Other than being a dependable person to work with, he's a really great friend. I'm glad I met him.”

“Are you sure it's just friendly?”

There it was.

You stop smiling and tilt your head. "What do you mean? We are just friendly."

The boy gives you a knowing look.

“Giorno…”

“I don't get to see you two together often but I sense something there.”

If 'sense' means Mista was telling him nonsense then sure.

Glaring, you silently look down at your ice cream. You didn’t really want to finish it anymore.

“Just saying.”

After that encounter, your relationship with Bruno becomes less comfortable. You feel tense and awkward whenever he’s around, and you could barely make eye contact or talk clearly with him. It honestly made you want to cry, so you start to avoid him in hopes of escaping this newfound stress.

However, it’s harder than you expect. Each day you would accidentally find yourself in the same area as him, but before he could approach you, you were escaping through the nearest exit. At one point, you even considered using a window before you realized how unnecessary that was.

You curse Giorno under your breath.

-----

This was day 7 of avoiding Bruno and you really missed him even though it hasn’t been that long.

You lean forward to rest your head in your hands. At least the weather was nice today.

You decided instead of risking running into Bruno you could just go somewhere where it would be unlikely to run into him. So you end up at the beach. By yourself.

You sigh. It would be more fun if the others were here. Whenever you wanted to do any type of non-mafia related activity you’d try to plan it around their schedules. It was genuinely more fun for you this way ever since you started to get to know them, with Bruno’s encouragement of course.

"Hey ____!"

You flinch from the sudden noise and turn towards the familiar voice that called out to you and see not only Mista approaching, but the rest of the gang decked out in their swimwear--Narancia, Fugo, Abbacchio, Bruno, and even Giorno.

Bruno was here.

Said man’s sunglasses blocked his eyes but you knew he was looking directly at you.

You think to run but freeze up. It's like your legs were ignoring the alarms in your head.

Shit.

Mista plops down next to you on your towel.

"...Hey Mista," you say under your breath.

"You went to the beach and didn't invite us?"

"Er, you guys were going to be busy? Why are you even here?"

“Giorno decided to give us a day off today,” Mista says.

Of course he did.

Giorno walks nearby, towel in hand. "You're welcome."

Was he talking to you or Mista? You scowl at him either way.

Narancia shouts a quick greeting as he runs directly towards the water while Fugo yells at him to come back for sunscreen.

You pull your knees up to your chest and look quietly at your feet to avoid any accidental eye contact with a certain someone.

“Well it's good you guys get to take a break, especially you Giorno.”

Mista stretches and throws an arm around your shoulder. “Giorno’s been working us to death!”

“We forgot the cooler, I'll go get it,” you hear Bruno say.

You shut your eyes.

“You okay?” Mista asks.

Forcing your eyes back open, you nod. “Why would there be something wrong?”

Abbacchio drops a bunch of stuff next to you. "Please hurry up and make up with Bucciarati.”

Your eyes widen and you whip your head towards the goth.

"Abbacchio we aren't supposed to get involved," Mista sighs.

"If we don't get involved then they'll avoid each other the whole day."

Your hands drag down your face and you look at Mista. “So...you all already know that I've been avoiding him?”

“Well we've barely seen you in a week and Bucciarati’s been...quieter, I guess.”

“You literally ran away the other day,” Abbacchio says.

You purse your lips at the realization that you attempt to be discrete was a complete failure.

Mista frowns and rubs at his short hair, one of the few times you've seen him without his hat. "Jeez you don't hold back..."

Abbacchio settles himself under the giant parasol he put up. "...Bucciarati’s not mad, so just talk to him."

It’s not like you want to avoid Bruno forever, you just needed time to get your emotions in order, but it was easier said than done. Whenever you thought of him you could feel butterflies and your heart would beat a bit--no a lot faster.

It scared the shit out of you.

When you got like this you became an awkward bumbling mess and you couldn't stand it--the feeling of losing control.

But you didn't want to damage your relationship with Bruno because of something so trivial. So you nod and get up, dislodging Mista’s arm, and without a word walk towards the direction your friend went.

“You don't know where the car’s parked.” Giorno says as you pass him.

You could hear the slight amused lithe in his tone but ignore it.

“Right...”

After Giorno tells you where to go, you take an unnecessary long time walking to the car. You could only walk so slow though and eventually see it in the distance parked at the side of the road.

There Bruno was, standing next to the open trunk of the car. Why was he just standing there?

You steel yourself and continue walking forward.

Don't ask questions or you'll chicken out.

When Bruno notices you approaching him you ignore the urge that you’ve had all week to escape. Stopping in front of him you surprisingly manage to get out a clear, simple statement.

“Can we talk?”

He nods and closes the trunk.

You don't want to talk where anyone could hear so you open the car's back door and slide into the backseat and Bruno follows right after, closing the door behind him. Now that you don’t feel as vulnerable, you should be able to speak but you stare nervously at the back of the front seat's headrest instead. You had no idea where to start.

Bruno removes his sunglasses while the both of you sit there in awkward silence.

“...____?”

You take a breath. “S-Sorry...I’m sure you know that I’ve been a-avoiding you…”

“Have you?”

Maybe he was saying that in an attempt to lighten the mood, but you feel like there’s also a hint of resentment. And you couldn't blame him. From his point of view, his friend just suddenly started ignoring him with no good reason.

“I’m sorry.”

“...Did I do something wrong?”

“No, you didn't do anything wrong! It’s all me.”

When he gives you a questioning look, obviously waiting for a further explanation, you can only see a way to redeem this properly by confessing.

"Me...I-I like..."

You can't even speak properly!

You cover your face in an attempt to avoid Bruno's piercing gaze. "Stop looking at me…"

He tilts his head a bit but turns his gaze away from you. "Where else am I supposed to look?"

You inhale and exhale deeply and focus on your next words. "I like...you. In a non-platonic w-way--a ro-romantic way....shit."

You didn’t think you could stare any harder at the back of the car seat.

“____ can you look at me for a second?”

Even though looking in his eyes made you feel tense you force yourself to.

“I know being open like this can be hard for you. Thank you for telling me.”

You nod. "Also you don't have to accept my feelings--"

“I like you too.”

You take a moment to process what you just heard. Doubt and hope somehow feel your chest simultaneously.

“R-Really?”

"Yes, for a while now. I didn't know how to bring it up without stressing you out or if it would be a good idea at all."

"Oh, me too--A part of me didn’t think it would be a good idea pursuing anything romantic because of our work."

And you somehow managed to delude yourself in the process.

It's quiet for a moment before you close the space between you two and press a kiss against his cheek.

Oh god.

Even though you were the one who did it, your face heats up just from that simple action. You open an eye and see him smiling softly at you. Your hands are immediately covering your face in embarrassment.

Bruno chuckles before wrapping an arm behind you. "Overwhelmed?"

"If--If I do it more I'll get used to it."

Inhaling, you force yourself to stop hiding--you’d done enough of that. You do still struggle to look at him though.

"Can we do more of the...kissing stuff?"

Bruno fingers gently brush your cheek and he directs your gaze towards him. "I can’t kiss you properly if you aren't looking at me," he whispers.

Your eyes close on their own as the space between you two is closed once again. Bruno's lips felt soft against yours and you find yourself leaning into him. But unfortunately it’s not enough to keep your overthinking at bay.

Am I doing this right? Wait...are my lips chapped?

Bruno’s hand gently grabs yours and he pulls back. "You don't need to force yourself ____.”

“Oh no, I want to do this! I'm just nervous.” You laugh awkwardly, “I’m not exactly the most experienced…”

Bruno hums. “Me neither.”

You raise a brow. “What?”

“I haven’t had much time for serious relationships.” Bruno's nose softly brushed against yours.

“Oh...right.”

He must still have a little more experience with….intimacy than you though? Or maybe you were so caught up in your thoughts that you didn’t notice?

Bruno hand caresses your check and he presses a kiss to the corner of your lips. You’re overthinking again. “Just know we don't have to rush anything, okay?”

For the first time today, you’re able to look at the man without discomfort as you try to see if he really means it. But you can’t imagine those words being anything but genuine coming from him.

“Okay.”

[oh-for-fic-sake]

Pooh Bear

Masterlist

Kal has a crush on his new babysitter and after watching her closely Henry has to now all he has to do is ask her out...Simple right?

Warnings: Swearing, Fluff, Slight Angst

Request: That’s so great! I was thinking maybe one where introvert chubby reader looks after Kal on set, when Henry’s filming. She and Kal become great friends, are always together, they cuddle, play, and nap together, etc. Henry might’ve secretly snapped a few pics of them. He’s happy that there’s someone else taking good care of his bestie.  Kal loves Henry but misses the reader when they’re back home. When they return to set, he expects her to be there for Kal but turns out she’s not working out there anymore. They thought her to be redundant and too much of a loner. This affects her because she always feels more happy around animals as she always wanted a dog but never really could afford it. Sorry for the stupidly long request…              

A/N: okay I did switch things up a little but i hope you still like it! And just so people know in england (or at least the south) 'A Salt' is another ways of saying someone is fit...basically saying he is a tasty looking man that you'd lick. And a 'nonce' is another term for idiot. Taglist: @being-worthy​ @two-unbeatable-beaters​ @thatgirly81​ @angelofthorrr @iloveyouyen​ @sofiebstar​ @thefangirlsblog​ @thatdamncutegirl

You smiled as your charge ran around happily with the kong toy pouncing and shaking his head the rubber dome slipped from his mouth and bounced unpredictably across the floor. It was a kong original that was a rubber 'bee hive' shape hollow and stuffed  full of one of those ham and cheese sandwich paste. He seemed to love it as he darted around happily pinning it every now and then trying to fish out the treat. You loved this job! It was incredible you literally got paid to snuggle walk play and snuggle with the sweetest dog you have ever met in your life...His owner wasn't to bad either...well now at least. You sighed crossing your ankles and fanned yourself at the thought of the bears dad...A bear of a man himself, or wolf should you say. Was stunning he was a salt... Definitely a salt. You watched again as Kal frantically chased the kong as it rolled out of his paws. You were the proud baby sitter of Kal Cavill probably the sweetest Akita anyone would ever find. Currently on set watching the pup bounce about trying to paw at the pesky kong flipping and rolling away threw the scatty motions. "Wow Kal-ee-bear that's some shit paw eye coordination baby boy..." you giggled as he snorted still patting at the rubber and moved laying down against your legs stuffing his snout at the wide opening still trying to devour the snack of cheese spread. you tried giving him snack enrichment each day to calm him down before delivering him back to his dad. "Oh I'm sooo sorry your majesty~" you jumped as Henry came up behind you. "And what has his royal highness up to today I wonder?" He crossed his arms across his chest. you flushed flinching and clamming up at him as he stood to the side of you both with a grin. You waved to Kal who was gruffing at the kong growing more irritated when he had to work for his treat. "He er.. Is huffy over the kong....He couldn’t catch it and now he has, he has to work for his cheese" Henry laughed out loud at that plopping down beside you. You flushed, you admit at first things had been rocky between you and Henry. But now he seemed to hover a lot more he wont just come and whisk Kal away at the end of his scenes he'd stay and try to chat...He for some reason wanted to get to know you. You'd been confused unsure what to make of the hunk trying to get to know you. You’d been frightened and withdrawn but he didn’t give up he spent a lot of time just sitting with you talking about his day. He didn't seem to mind you were quiet in fact he seemed to like having someone to listen to him. You sighed wistfully realizing you'd let your shyness let this chance pass you by. You'd had so many chances to talk to him properly to admit your feelings to him but you hadn't your shy personality pulled you back. Today was your final day here sitting with Kal and you were devastated you'd come to have feelings for the big bear...and his owner more then you should have...More than you cared to admit. It was silly but you'd harbored a crush on the man and for a few months and had been debating on how to show but it was hard for someone like you...To introverted for your own good...Not that you'd ever be able to open up much to people. Animals on the other hand were completely different ,you preferred animals to people and you think Henry could tell but he was stubborn ,but then he had been stubborn since day one.

When you'd first met he was worried you didn't have the strength to look after or control such a big dog...Kal was small for an Akita but he was by no means weak, he has had Henry over a few times in the past which is not to be laughed at. You remembered it well the first time he saw you he'd be the first to admit he was a bit of an ass...Well he was a complete asshole to be honest. Your mind wandered to your first ever conversation with the man.

"So did you realize he's an Akita? He needs a lot of exercise and attention...I need someone who can keep up with him and handle him when in a boisterous mood...not someone he can run rings around and overpower" you squinted at him and grunted he seemed put out and very full of himself; something he’d later regret. You'd took a deep breath and smiled trying your best not to snap or cower...His scowl was intimidating. "Yes I do...Look if I can help calm down a scared shire and pull it to a halt, and hold still a bull by its horns for tagging I think I can handle a little Akita" he had grunted at you in disbelief crossing his arms and scoffed at you. "Oh really? You did all that?" You growled at him getting a bee in your bonnet his attitude was getting right up your nose now you didn't want to anger him but at the same time you needed this job it'd pay for your van and get you up and running. "I was training to be a country vet so yes I did all that anything else Mr Cavill? A resume? Certificates I have them with me..I even know canine cpr and how to remove ticks if you wanted to Know that to" he huffed and turned to the others present.

"Fine she will do but one incident and she's not watching him that’s final I don't let just anyone look after him" you smiled confidently but inside you were bricking it hoping you didn't come across as a nasty person you wasn't...You were just in a tricky spot and you needed money...You loved dogs they were going to be your new career so this was a perfect fit for you...No customers or people just you babysitting a big ass fluffy bear. That had been the only time you'd really clapped back at him and you were proud it was rare for you to stand up for yourself.

He'd gotten copies of all your documents you'd shown to prove you were capable...when he said he wouldn't trust just anyone with his four legged son, he meant it and you understood. You'd be the same with you own puppy, as much as you wanted one of your own finances were tight and once your business was open you wouldn't have much time spare for a pup of your own. Some of the others had rolled their eyes when they saw Henry hovering like a mother hen over you and Kal for the first week. They had complained to one another expressing that Kal was just a dog he would be fine. They just didn't understand. But as it turns out you had somehow passed his requirements and he had backed off trusting you to look after his son. You gathered that he checked you out fully and realized you had done all that you said, pulled out of veterinary school deciding the larger animals wasn't for you and were now focusing on grooming. And he had but that wasn't the whole reason he had been spying on you and Kal even when you didn't realize it.

It had started when he came to apologize. You'd never know but he felt like a dick and had come to apologize for his attitude but instead found himself floored watching from a short distance you were cuddling Kal smoothing his fur raking your fingers through it giggling and kissing him every so often pulling clumps of shedding fur out of him. "Oh my! baby boy look at all this? you'll be a stone lighter once all this is out talk about a crash diet....Wish I could drop a few dress sizes just by brushing my hair" that comment had hit Henry's chest with a dull cold thud. You were beautiful why would you say that about yourself? sure you were thicker...but thicker was better in his opinion he loved curves the idea of luscious soft curves filling his palms mad him swoon! He watched as you giggled wrestling Kal to his other side before repeating. He was surprised at how much he liked watching you play with him it was nice seeing Kal so relaxed and coddled. Henry sometimes felt guilty bringing Kal on set he couldn't give him much attention when he was working so that was where dog sitters come in someone o watch him and keep Kal occupied when Henry was working. "You'll feel so much better after this...I will bring my brushes out tomorrow and give you a good tidy up! you must be so hot love..." Henry laughed as the calm didn't last long at the word brush Kal got up excitedly pouncing and licking your face. You giggled loudly as he pushed you back standing over you yipping but you didn't throw him off instead wrapping your arms around him and rolled taking the Akita clean of his feet pinning the large dog to the floor and attacking him with tummy scratches and raspberries. Henry's heart melted it was nice to see someone playing with him properly no holds bar! rough housing with an Akita was no mean feet but you managed. It was then he leaned back watching you a small smile on his lips you took your job seriously and Henry was seeing a different side to you. He had definitely misjudged you he felt even more of an asshole now.

The final hurdle you jumped was when he saw Kal mouthing at your forearm playfully keeping the arm snug between his jaws and pulling trying to tug you back down as you tried to get up. Henry panicked heart stopping for a second as you hissed a little, people can perceive mouthing as biting. Before Henry could even think he moved a few steps forward readying to charge down and explain the behavior and pray you didn't take the incident further. But before he could take another step you had taken care of it and you didn't freak out like others would have in the jaws of a large dog. You simply calmed the situation down nicely and carefully with ear rubs making Kal release you and tilt his head trying to make you rub harder onto the ear. "You got such a big mouth Kal my love! mouthing like that huh? Just one overgrown puppy~" you finished by laughing and settling down onto the ground with him.Then pulled Kal to face you kissing his snout making him go all soppy again. Henry watched dumbstruck as you peeled back his lip and shook your head. "Lets had a look at your nashers...Oh? Whats this Pooh bear? look at those teeth! And they call your daddy a wolf huh? And your not brushing them are you my little fluff ball? hmm? well we will start that tomorrow~ oh yesh we will!...You like the sound of that huh? brush these pearly whites and make your breath smell all fresh! all it'll cost you is more kisses!! yesh it will baby boy! good bear such a good pooh bear!" Henry smoothed back the wig he was wearing heaving a deep sigh relaxing with a chuckle. Yeah that hadn't put you off at all now his dog had a fucking dentist to. Henry took a moment to calm down as he realized you'd known what you were doing. The fear for all dog owners was someone saying they were bit! but in that moment he was reassured you knew a lot more about dogs then your papers said ,you handled it very well. Kal had a habit of mouthing he always had since a puppy, sometimes he even falls asleep with one of Henry's hands in his mouth just holding it sometimes suckling like a tiny pup again...It was rare now but it happened almost using his hand or fingers like a like a toddler with a soother. But when he was excited he would mouth a little harder it was pack behavior but to anyone who didn't know they called it a bite. Kal seemed to like you and you handled him beautifully.

After that Henry had meant to back off but...He couldn't seeing how you'd got Kal wrapped around your little finger had intrigued him...He was a strong believer in dogs having that sixth sense for people they could sniff out the bad ones. Kal had fallen head over paws for you and each morning got in a little tizzy waiting for you to come pick him up prancing at the door as you got closer. Henry loved how much pride you took in looking after kal and how far you went you'd all but adopted the bear. Fuck you were only supposed to walk him and play with him a few hours a day but you groomed him, brushed his fur and teeth daily even clipped his claws and filed them you pampered the dog with massages after his runs new toys and enrichment treats then had long ass naps wrapped around him. You were a nanny, packmate, cook, dentist stylist, nail technician massuse and all round mother to Kal and the bear loved it lapping up the attention and what Henry believed to be genuine love. 

He still watched but now for a different reason he wasn't worried about kal...He watched you, it had only taken him three weeks to become completely besotted with you he wanted to spend as much time with you as he could. He loved everything about you, the way your laugh made kal go crazy and lather you with kisses how you'd roll around with him no qualms about getting dusty and smothered with fur and the way you played and snuggled kal like he was your own pup kissing him and giving him the love he needed. If he was honest he adored the way you'd gone about it. Most dog sitters just sat on their phones with kal on the lead beside them and walked him when once a day. You mothered him and spoiled him rotten. And Henry loved and loathed it...Why were you so comfortable with kal and not him? Sire hed been an ass at the start but you were all past that now...Henry wanted some of you attention now but you withdrew when he was there. It was maddening.

It was a week after he had seen you deal with Kals mouthing that you'd approached him he almost expected the worse thinking you were going to quit saying kal was to much but instead you'd asked if kal was allergic to anything. Henry to be honest was stumped, he'd never though of kal having allergies. He was concerned and began running all the worst scenarios in his head of what you'd noticed or what had happened. But you had shyly calmed him down saying you wanted to get Kal some treats and chews but didn't want to cause any medical issues. Henry can honestly say his heart had swelled at that. Henry in that moment had developed a full blown crush on you. He was floored that you'd take his bears welfare so seriously that you'd asked permission to give him treats. He had stuttered out that you could give him what ever that he didn't have any allergies and you'd grinned wide then began gushing over these strange yak milk chews you wanted to get him and a deer antler? Henry just smiled laughing as you forgot who and where you was getting yourself excited.

"Oh my god this is gonna be fun! I've never been able to get this stuff I don't have a dog but now with kal I can spoil him rotten thank you Henry!" And with that said nearly every day his boy came home with a new toy or treat. Henry found it cute especially when you'd given him a little yellow squeaky teddy, Henry didn't think it would last two mineuts normally kal ripped soft teddies to shreds but this one...For some reason wasn't chewed ever not even the eyes ,sure Kal would bite it on the squeaker normally early in the mornings to wake Henry up but it was a teddy he just carried around with him and slept on. He couldn't sleep with out it tucked under his chin!

As time went on you found yourself having small awkward conversations with Henry he seemed to just want you to open up, to talk to him and get along. You wanted to but it was hard for you he was this huge hot alpha witcher male and you were a small dumpy thing. You didn't want to get attached to him, didn't want your crush to get out of hand when you knew there was no chance...He'd never go for someone like you slowly your thought began getting darker and more upsetting luckily they disappeared when kal nudged you almost knocking you over as you retied your laces he was waiting for you to hurry up it was time for his daily walk/run. You soon found yourself jog running along the trail with kal as he created wanting to go faster you panted and grunted at him waving your arms around as he pulled nearly having you off your feet. "Kal! I can't go faster!!! I'm fat haven't you noticed?! fucking lard asses can't got faster we have like three gears!" he barked at you as if to argue you scoffed. "Yes I know your daddy goes faster but I cant!" again he barked and yipped at you eager to go sprinting "No! absolutely not! I'm not letting you off again...Remember the squirrel? You promised to come back young man! and you lied I nearly had a fucking heart attack!" he yipped again tapping the floor prancing a typical kal tantrum brewing. "Nu uh! you did this if you'd behaved and not ran off like a race horse then you'd be let off and be frolicking in the woods like a pooh bear! But no you were a nonce!" he stamped again and moved capturing the lead in his mouth and pulled starting a game of tug making you swear and quickly hold it with two hands and lean back as he started bouncing back growling playfully. "Kal you little shit stop! no no don't-KAL?!" you growled and dug your heels in pulling back as he growled now wagging his tail at the new game of tug. "Kal Cavill you stop being a little brat this instant! I mean it or no peanut butter!...Yes that got you attention didn't it?....Good boy, right now thanks to you little paddy we are going back now see? You play up and we go home....Just you wait until I tell your daddy how spoiled your acting." he whined and flopped down you dropped your jaw at him scratching your head. "Wait what? kal no stop it-really? your really are a sulky little shit sometimes pooh bear....Kal come on up" you moved pulling the lead but he didn't budge you cried out in frustration. Kal just smiled panting at you making you laugh despite your annoyance. "How can I not move you?! putting my weight in it you should at least budge! I how're you doing this?...." you moved and sat beside him and curled over him trying to pick him up but nope he was not going anywhere. you sighed and sat next to him out of breath. "Kal come on mate! cut me some slack...I'm not fit like your daddy and if you wont listen to your recall then I can't let you off..." you moved a hand digging your fingers int the fur massaging him then leaned down kissing his snout he moved sitting up seeing you were upset. "You know I wish I was...Fitter then maybe he'd look at me or-or I'd have the confidence to talk to him back but..Yeah men like him don't like us plus sizes...Oh don't look at me like that kal there's no hiding the fact I'm a fucking chunk!...No matter how much I like him it'd never happen..." you stood up and kal followed licking at your fingers by your side you smiled patting his head. "Lets get back...And I lied you can have your peanut butter I'm sorry I said you couldn't it was mean...But only if you keep that little crush thing quiet okay? Good boy!, you keep that secret for me bubby" he jumped up happily you had no doubt this dog understood every single word you said to him.

Henry had made it his mission to get one date by the end of filming...If only he wasn't this shy every time he tried you'd flush blinking up at him and he'd freeze forgetting his previous thoughts and just star mind going blank. And like a coward he'd stutter out a thank you for seeing to kal and run off tail between his legs. One time; the seventh time...But he wasn't counting, he came over psyching himself up. 'Just one date just say hey your good with kal and I think your really cute and want to take you out...Or just a basic lets have dinner' he nodded to himself and smiled fisting his hands by his side and took a few deep breaths steeling himself as he made his way to a small shaded area just off set and frowned...What was? was Kal laying on you?....He was! Henry snuck up behind you hearing the bear snort in his sleep and slowly stretch out one front leg across you before sighing loudly and relaxing again. You were laying flat on your back in the grass. from what Henry could tell Kal at one point had been next to you but had rolled over in his sleep tummy flat against your side head laying heavy on your soft tummy one paw stretched out over your waist, his back legs straddling your hip from the side.  Your hand was tucked in his mouth you were both sound asleep. Kal was hugging you and Henry couldn't help feeling a little jealous he wanted to do that...He wanted to hug you...He was being out done by his own dog...Henry smiled and took in the sight. He wanted to see this more often he really needed to ask you out ...He needed to get his ass in gear time was ticking. He moved quickly looking left and right before subtly snapping a few shots you'd be none the wiser to him having a new background on his phone. He quickly tucked his phone away and sat beside you leaning back on his hands and just admired the sight drawing his eyes over your form and flushed a bright red noting your top had rose resting just below your bust... kal had somehow nudged it up, Henry had to chuckle at the thought his pup was really putting the moves on you. If only Henry could be that brave. You moved groaning blinking you were hot...So hot what the fuck? had you fell asleep? Shit. You frowned feeling a weight on your tummy you flexed your fingers they were? What the fuck why are they warm....And wet your stomach was damp to....Eww!? What the hell- your being fucking finger sucked!?! confused you gasped and jolted tipping your head up. Fully alert and blinked a few times looking around then focused looking down and giggled. Kal was dead asleep passed out on your tummy somehow he had sucked your hand into his mouth and was trying to suckle on it like a tiny puppy. You smiled and sighed relieved that it was just a silly pooh bear and not some scary ass fuck tard moving your other hand up to stroke the sleeping pups head giggling when he twitched and snorted like a piggy and kicked a back leg out. "Oh my god that's so cute~" you jumped hearing a deep chuckle beside you and saw Henry sitting watching. Instantly you froze unsure what to do or say flushing and gulping trying to remain calm, sensing your discomfort he smiled kindly then nodded to kal. "Done it since he was a pup...Like a proper baby only ever done it with me before though think you may have become his new favorite human~" you flushed lightly and tried wriggling out from under Kal but stopped when he groaned and clamped down on the fingers in his mouth. You chuckled you were not moving anytime soon bot with out upsetting the bear, you shrugged to Henry who laughed quietly again shaking his head.

"I'm afraid you are now trapped here with me until the bear decides to let go~" you blinked flushing even more as his gaze bore into you. You looked back wanting to at least sit up a bit Henry was quick to intervene and shuffled closer sitting side on crossed legged and slipped the elevated knee below our head you flushed when he cleared his throat and his cheeks became pink.

"I...Err your-Its my dogs fault and I..." you blinked slowly and lowered your head to rest on the knee your. He smirked at you feeling proud f himself being able to pull this off somehow.

"I-I Henry if I get to heavy just say...Don't want to give you a dead leg or something...." he frowned a dark look his eyes going dark making you quiver slightly your insecurity rearing its ugly head a small voice telling you your crushing him. He placed a hand to your shoulder. "Your not heavy Honestly I don't even feel you there...It'd take around six of you before I'd even feel anything!" You flushed brightly but said nothing, he must just be saying that he was polite...To polite to tell you your fat. After a few minuets of silence and Henry berating himself he cleared his throat and motioned to Kal still snoring away, his voice lowering making your insides quiver. "Stolen my own pup I knew you'd be trouble~" you swallowed and smiled shyly up at him shaking your head at him with an impish grin. "N-no...He just likes me I think....He is a good boy you should be really proud of him the best boy I have ever looked after" Henry nodded thanking you then looked down at Kal still happily snoring. "And you the best babysitter he has had~ hands down I'm really impressed...I was wrong I never did apologize for being such an asshole when we met" You were all about loosing your mind trapped here under kal ,who would throw a fit if you moved him. "No no..I understand he is your special boy and a energetic little man I can understand the concern someone large and unfit showing up" he grunted and frowned moving the hair from your face making you squeak.

"Stop that! Your a beautiful full figured woman there's nothing wrong with that!.... and for the record it wasn't that at all that made me worry...Your small and I was afraid Kal would have you over and break a bone or something...Kal has he me over many times in the past....Either way I was wrong my worry is no excuse to be rude and I'm sorry" You flushed as Henry slowly eyed your form as he spoke, his blues glittering with something you'd never seen directed at you before but it was gone before you could decipher it. He watched unblinkingly at you finally you smiled and nodded to him breathing out a quick thank you, he grinned and moved a hand stroking kal patting his side softly. "But as for this boy goes I think he more then likes you...He has taken a shine to you...Think he has a crush~ not that I blame him as I said your a very lovely woman" you blinked smiling wider and somehow going a brighter red managed to slip your hand out of the bears jaws and wiped it on your tshirt using the moment to tug it back down. "You-you don't mean that I'm...Just ...Yeah" Henry frowned at you not liking the tone you used to speak about yourself. He went to argue further but grunted a little annoyed as Kal choose that moment to stir making you look away. You watched thankful for the bear giggling softly as the dog moved up off you stretching and yawning then blinked at his dad as if you say 'what?' you moved and kissed his head softly "Come on sleeping beauty time to go home I'm sure you can nap with your daddy when you get back" Henry chuckled as Kal huffed getting up and standing beside him. Henry wanted to linger, to ask you out to do something but any courage he had was gone the moment he had you laid in his lap...It was like a kid wanting something for so long and once he had it he didn't know what to do with it. He moved standing and held out his hand to help you up you froze  and gulped smiling nervously, as strong as he might be you'd have him over and it'd embarrass you to much. Last thing you wanted your crush to know is just how fucking heavy you were. But the man didn't give you much choice as he snatched your hand dragging you up and you were amazed he didn't even lean back or grunt nothing! just pulled you straight up off the floor like it was nothing and you swooned. Henry kicked himself for days over not correcting you. You were amazing and kind and funny and he'd do anything to go out on a date with you....Apart from over come his own bashfulness that is. he wanted to show you how pretty you were to him how much he'd grown to care for you just from watching you with kal but he chickened out yet again.

You smiled moving forward to Kal already getting tearful snuggling him tightly saying your good bye running your nose through his fur Henry's heart clenched when he saw you getting upset he just wanted to wrap you up in his arms and hug you tell you how he felt but no...It wasn't fair to spring his crush on you on the last day...He should have told you sooner, swept you off your feet taken you out wined and dined you. But he hadn't and now he had to say good bye without even giving it a try, the only constellation was that he'd ask for you back next season. He watched sorrowfully at your tears Kal licked them away and you kissed his snout. "Now you listen to me pooh bear you behave..you hear me you be a good boy for you daddy and stop chewing them claws! you have a lovely set of claws and your going to ruin them and get stinky breath if you carry on!" you quickly stood up and Henry pulled you in for a quick hug. "I-er...I'm...Th-thank you for being so good with him he hasn't been this taken care off well ever I don't think!" you smiled wiping at your eye going red your heart was crumbling as you took your last few moments with him. You’d failed to keep your feelings at bay and now you were going to pay dearly for it. "No-your to kind....You do a brilliant job...I-it was fun good luck with the press tour" the conversation came to a screeching halt as you both debated telling one another but in the end you didn't each to scared. You’d turned and left tears trailing down your face once out of sight you held your head in your hands and had a good old cry. You felt ridiculous miserable and very very sorry for yourself. But whats done is done...Or not done shall we say you left shortly after needing to be at home there was a litre tub of vanilla ice cream calling your name.

It wasn't until Henry got home he let it sink in he wasn't going to see you anymore. He broke down cursing and kicking out in a very uncharacteristic manner 'you were such a fucking coward! you should have told her'....He should have grown a back bone and asked you out but no...He held himself back yet again! over the next months he had stewed regrets piling, he replayed all the times he could of just asked you out, all the times when he had to admit his feelings the list got longer  each day. He missed you Kal missed you...The teddy you bought him was with him each time he slept no matter where Kal would wander off getting the teddy and used it as a pillow.

He'd sometimes just sit in his bed with it blinking at Henry, Kal wanted to know where you were he wanted to see you again. Sometimes he would bring it up to him and drop it nudging the stuffed bear to Henry with a sad look whining pitifully like 'wheres mama?' that is what Henry had ended up calling you...In a short few months you'd more of less become Kal's mother. You dotted on him and he you....It was Henry who fucked up! and boy did he feel guilty seeing Kal so upset he had even tried hiding the teddy a few times wanting his cheerful bear back but no that had been a big mistake Henry had left the room for a few moments and came back to a hell of a mess Kal ripping the place up looking for the toy almost panic. Henry had to give it back and since then hadn't got within three feet of it Kal guarded it with his life. Henry sighed he was angry at himself if he'd opened his mouth then you'd be here visiting at least! He could of tried could of build something with you but no Henry had been a coward. and he would not be making that same mistake again!  luckily filming was starting again next week so he would see you again! he'd been telling Kal that they were going to see you both again it was nice seeing Kal get all excited he had been depressed.

And that was why is was all the more heartbreaking when he got on set and you wasn't there. Henry was pissed, he had been gearing up getting himself ready to see you again but you wasn't here...Everyone he asked said they hadn't seen you then it finally came out that no one was hired for Kal this time. You were a victim of your own success, Kal had been so good last time that it was decided the money could be spent elsewhere. It broke his heart he wanted so desperately to see you to finally ask you out for Kal to cheer up they were both love struck and both heart broken and depressed. After a week Henry had finally stopped pushing to find you resigning himself to the fact he wasn't going to get his second chance and he just hopped Kal would snap out of it...He doubted it though Akitas were revered for their loyalty and intelligence Henry wouldn't forget so the likelihood of Kal forgetting was slim. he sat at the table sighing he was down everyone could tell neither Henry or Kal had the spring in their step they once had.

Everyone knew the change in the two was because you hadn't been there Joey, Anya and Freya were at a loss unsure how to make him feel better that is until Freya asked around the local village. She remembered Henry mentioning that you were saving up to be a dog groomer and she said something in passing about an Akita in need of a good brush in the local shop and bingo! The shop owner smiled and gushed over the new mobile groomers, a local lady who had just set up shop. The woman had rushed to the counter getting a business card and little leaflet. Freya wasn't sure how but she just knew it'd be Henry's bou. She was excited thanking the woman before rushing back to set.

Once on set Freya made her way right through it searching for a down trodden Henry. She was determined to help him out...And keep a secret at the same time, she wanted it to be a surprise. Finally she found him sitting at a covered table picking at his food Kal beside him resting his chin on the bench beside him.

"Henry? I have something that might cheer Kal up~" he looked to Freya with a confused look Joey and Anya frowned to noting the sly grin on her face. Henry placed his fork down wiping his hand and took a small purple business card and matching purple leaflet. He scowled reading it. Mama bears puppy spa?. He frowned looking up at Freya who smiled knowingly.

"I found it in the village shop window...Just trust me phone up, you can email to see? and the prices are reasonable...I think get them to come give Kal a quick once over might cheer him up having a little pamper" Henry sighed looking to the scruffy boy he was shedding again so maybe a wash cut and blow dry would help cheer him up...and stop him from waking up with fur in his mouth.

"Thanks...I think I might mobile one I take it?" Freya smirked nodding to him Henry was just to out of it to even

"Gets raving reviews...A local lady I think but seriously just treat him!" he smiled thanking her again deciding he might as well he had noticed Kal chewing his claws again but hadn't got the nail clippers with him and if they were going to come out here might as well get the works done. So that's what he did asked them to come out the next day as he had it off they booked as a last minuet. And that was where he now found himself sitting by the entrance of set waiting for a big purple mobile dog groomers. He was so engrossed in looking out for the van he didn't notice Freya Anya and Joey gathered a few feet behind him watching. Henry sighed petting Kal and wiping off the shedding fur letting it fall to the floor in tufts.

"God Kal you really do need this huh buddy? must be horrible going from silky daily brushed fur to now just once a week" He smiled rubbing Kal’s back dragging his fingers through the fur.

Henry frowned as suddenly Kal lifted his head sniffing then quicker then Henry could react he sprinted off across the makeshift car park Henry jumped up shouting for him but it was to late Kal was off the dog ignored him running around the corner and down the long track. Henry’s heart clenched and his blood ran cold as Kal disappeared out of sight then he heard it large truck skid to a stop Henry screamed Kal’s name tears already streaming fearing the worst as he rounded the corner  drawing attention as he sprinted as fast as his legs could carry him and almost collapsed in relief he was okay! Kal was okay he wasn't hit. He was pacing tail going ballistic and jumping whining excitedly yipping and barking loud and frantic scratching at the door barking and creating a huge fuss.

The door opened just as Henry skidded to a stop sliding on his knees in the gravel hugging Kal who wasn't interested in the slightest still trying to jump up at the woman? He looked up trying to see just what had made Kal pee with excitement. Henry froze as a familiar woman stood before him and quickly caught a jumping Kal and fell to the floor with him and Henry as Kal frantically tried to bombard her with kisses. She crouched down and held Kals face still forcing him to look her in the eyes. He couldn't believe what he was seeing until he heard her speak.

"YOU! JUST WHAT SO YOU THINK YOU WERE PLAYING AT!?!" your shout meant nothing to the pup as he was lunging at you wanting his kisses whining  beating Henry with his tail stayed behind the bear shaking like a leaf still in shock he petting him he needed to touch him after that scare.

"Henry!? Who was watching him?! I'll fucking kick there ass! fuck I'm so happy I saw him shit... Fuck! heads are gonna roll!" Henry tilted his head looking at you moving a hand to cup your cheek slowly.

"Y/n is-is that really you?" you smiled now calming down nodding to him

"Yeah...Hi Henry...I er-I take it Kal is my client for the day?" Henry nodded still refusing the release kal even though the dog wanted nothing to do with him as far a he was concered his mama was here and he wanted his cuddles.You smiled and stood up dusting yourself off then looked to the truck Kal wriggled out of Henry's grip jumping at you making you laugh ad pet him.

"Hey pooh bear I gotta move the truck first then we can have cuddles okay? Can you go with your daddy for a bit?" Henry stood shaking his head at you.

"No he wont he has missed you something chronic...He has been real depressed" you looked down to the dog and smiled opening the truck door and motioned for hims to climb in.

"Go on then one quick little ride then we can sort you out you little scruff bear...You getting in?" Henry nodded watching wincing as Kal clambered up into the truck then jumped in behind him controlling Kal a little as you drove up and parked off to the side then turned to face the still yipping pup.

"Okay okay bear calm down here you want cuddles?" at your open arms the dog dived at you still wagging his tail how it hadn't snapped off from hitting the hand break you don't know. "So pooh bear is my last minuet appointment? For the whole hog right?" Henry was stumped you...You were different still the same beautiful woman he hadn't stopped thinking about but you were more confident. you were happier and you glowed more if that was possible. Henry was flawed now was his chance...Why wasn't he speaking? why didn't he just say something? you looked at him a little confused. "Are you err...Are you okay Henry?" you asked slightly worried as Kal began to settle now that he had his mama back he placed his heavy head on your shoulder whining quietly in your ear. "I just... He needs a pamper...A professional pamper so... could you?" you smiled quickly nodding then quickly scratched Kals back kissing his cheek making him smile again. "Absolutely! make your boy nice and clean and fluffy and I even have a cute little dicky bow for the sweet boy~ Yesh I do  yesh I do my precious little pooh bear! you wanNa look all snazzy for you daddy? you coming in to? Can give you some pointers then you want have to splash out on it" it was then that something snapped in him and he stared at you licking his lips he began talking before he could even decide what to say. "...But what if I err...what if I wanted to splashout...It..Splashout on you?...And you know have you take care of him again...Have you stick around..." you frowned blinking he wanted you around? you'd assumed he had found someone better to look after the bear when you hadn't been called back. "You want me to stick around and look after Kal again?" he nodded blushing and running a hand through his hair he looked at you and swallowed.Fuck it Henry man up! just tell her!. "No! I...I want you to stick around and look after the both of us....Fuck that sounded clingy...W-What I meant is we both missed you...We have-Kal has been depressed...That fucking teddy! the bear you gave him he has been carrying it whining with it...Looking to me sulking he wanted me to find you again...I was such an ass i got him all excited to see you again and then you wasn't here he-we were both upset...A-and I want to see you...like see you" "You want me to...I don't understand...You don't want me to dogsit? Or you want me to dogsit again?" he sighed he was really ballsing this up. He tilted his head at you and moved to stroke Kals back calming himself down it was now or never Henry don’t let her escape again just Take the bull by the horns your meant to be a fucking witcher! superman and you cant even tell her you like her. he closed his eye and spoke with a low firm voice. "I want you here! I missed you and when I got home I was kicking myself....Y/n I have a- I was super excited to see you again but your not here and I...We need you...You were right Kal has a crush on you! A crush?...He's fucking in love with you and he was depressed without you! Missed you so much" you blinked looking from the dog to Henry "Kal...Loves me?" Henry nodded biting his bottom lip he sighed he could do this...He could do this just ask! just tell you. He smiled sweetly smoothing his hand over his face watching at you glanced at him weary. Then held up a hand then let it fall to his thigh. "Well yes very very much and he missed you terribly.... And he wants to spend time with you again and talk...Get to know you better and got out for walks, coffee ,maybe dinner? and I-I'm fucking this up shit..." you blinked gasping quietly l finally catching up with him you smiled shyly before speaking in a small voice. "Are...Are we still talking about Kal Henry?" you held your breath regretting the words as soon as they left your mouth maybe your hopes were to high? Were you reading to much into this?.   "No were not I..Please would-If you don't mind..And you don't have to! but I...Would you go out with me?...For Kal! He needs a woman around! he needs his Mama-NO NOT LIKE ERR SHIT FUCK!" you flushed blushing deep as Henry panicked covering his face embarrassed muttering trying to dig himself out of the hole he had dug. You giggled at him and smiled really embarrassed and moved to Kal peeking at him. Then spoke in a clear voice halting Henry's waffling. "Kal?~...Ha-have you been telling your daddy on me?~ you know when I told you I had a crush on him it was supposed to be a secret!" Henry snapped his head up to you blinking as if still taking in the information then a huge grin split across his face. "You have a crush on- fuck yes!" he leaned over to you before you could move he pressed Kals head out of the way and captured your lips you gasped making him smirk and quickly dart into your mouth. Henry smiled tilting his head you moaned l softly as he pressed you further back twisting his head suckling and thrusting back and forth trying to coax your tongue from your mouth. Then it was brought to an abrupt end as Kal lifted his head snout bumping into you chin snapping your jaw shut biting Henry's tongue. You quickly opened your mouth as he hissed and grunted jolting back with a laugh as almost immediately Kal gave him a look thag clearly said 'my mama' then began kissing your cheeks himself. Henry rolled his eyes poking out his tongue touching it with the pad of his finger checking for blood he smiled when there was none then spoke in a deep tone almost scolding to the pup snuggling into your neck hiding fro his dad.

"Kal....Son? You know your gonna have to share your Mama with me...I am your dad.."you chuckled leaning back looking to Henry as Kal continued to hide.

"Soo you..er you want to get lunch? Maybe after I sort out Kal?...He should have a nap after a good bath." Henry grinned wide nodding to you he was over the moon. "I'd love that! Maybe get a rerun of that kiss....Minus the jealous bear" you wriggled your eyebrows at him.

"Nah! Don’t have to wait that long! We can kiss when Kals safely leashed in the bath!" Kal suddenly pulled back wide eyed looking back and froth between you both making Henry laugh.

"Oh yes I forgot the bear doesn't like his baths" you giggled at him.

"Oh well you definitely need to be there with me...for moral support" he smiled wickedly before looking to Kal who was suddenly uncomfortable with the looks he was receiving. 

"Kal-e-bear time for a bath~" the dogs ears went down flat against his head as he sensed his parents were indeed going to wrestling him into a bath.

[howareyanowwayne]

Letterkenny Crack

This is a Mermaid AU you have been warned. pre-Wayne/Darry. 

If you asked most of the good people in Letterkenny, they’d tell you that Wayne was without a doubt the toughest guy in town. A really good guy, just all around stand up; he kept to himself, but never avoided a polite chit-chat with neighbors or ag hall members. Ran his farm with ease and always put out a good crop, fought with honor and defended his own- that was all most people really cared to know about him. 

He’d never really had a sweetie(except for Angie) and that goss would circulate every few years when someone decided to try their luck asking him to dance at the jamboree or sum’such. It never stuck, and people would find something else to talk about until another party came around and others would give it the old college try. 

The best thing about Wayne, in most the town’s minds anyway, wasn’t just the good fights he put on or his honest-to-god good ole’ boy way of going about things- it was the lake that bordered the north side of his property. Like his Dyad had when they were kids, every summer Wayne opened the back driveway from noon to 4 or 5 and let people drive up in their trucks for a few hours of swimming. Most of the lake sat on the state-owned wildlife preserve that curled around the north and east sides of the farm, but they had a solid 3rd of it that was great for swimming and fishing, as long as people stayed respectful.

Wayne himself spent a good deal of time out by the lake, thinking or drinking. Always in the morning when there was no one about. Katy worried about him sometimes, especially after Angie’s cheated on him; when he’d disappeared and they’d found him, two days later passed out on the shore of the lake completely soaked through. 

But Wayne was never one for many words, content to spend a good deal of time alone or with his dogs, and she understood. He had his own demons, and she trusted him to come to her when he really needed help.

But this isn’t a story about Wayne being alone, or not liking people that much(because as polite as he was, he really didn’t like most folks all that much), this is the story of how Wayne and Derry met.

One morning, long before chorin’ needed to be done, Wayne bolted upright in his bed. Whatever dream had woken him was already fading from his mind, leaving behind only a vague sense of wonder and alarm. He sat quietly trying to remember for a moment, but soon enough drew a blank. Rolling out of bed, he looked out his back window towards the lake, out of sight on the other side of the field. Wayne had a strange feeling, as he dragged on jeans and a button up, that something was happening.

Without realizing it he’d rushed out of the house, pulling a dart from his pack and lighting it, beelining for the lake with long rolling strides. 

As he got closer to the edge of the property he could see little flashes of green light from over the hill- getting brighter as he cleared the corn field and making his alarm grow. Wayne hadn’t brought a flashlight, and now he was glad he hadn’t announced his presence- if there were skids partying on his property after dark, he’d send them running with their tails tucked between their legs. 

He ran the last few feet up to the crest of the hill and stopped cold. Blinked a few hundred times, because what he saw didn't make any kind of sense.

There, sliding leisurely through the water on the bank of the lake was fucking mermaid. He couldn’t think of another word for it that was for gd sure- clearly the upper body of a man, no legs, just fish from the hips down. Wayne scrubbed at his eyes hard, blinking the water out and letting his peepers adjust. It was still there after, tail pushing water lazily, upper body reclined on the shore. Glowing, for god's sakes, biolights flashing a soft green and blue and lighting the water like some kind of scene from a fairy tail. 

He didn’t even register his legs taking him closer until suddenly he was only a few feet away, and big, glowing green eyes flickered up to him. 

Wide, luminous, and wet as a dewdrop, Wayne watched two sets of translucent eyelids flutter in shock before yellow pupils shrunk into slits of alarm. Even as everything in him screamed at him to flee he was stuck, making intense eye contact with this strangely-human looking fish. 

Two things happened in an instant. The Mermaid’s face split like a snake’s, mouth too wide and full of sharp teeth. Messy wet curls flew about his head as he flipped, hissing and backing away from the farmer faster than a deer in headlights. 

Wayne stumbled back from the bank and slipped as loose sand and clay gave way, landing him right in the water with a splash. The hissing, barking sound continued as the hick threw his arms over his head and clenched his eyes shut. Lights flashed under his eyelids and his ears rang.

After a few long moments of heart pounding panic, the farmer stopped hearing hissing and a warm weight moved behind him. He opened his eyes to find the mermaid only a few inches from him. Wayne wasn’t the best at reading people, but he’d say it looked curious- mad as a snake, teeth barred and body tense, but there was a confused tilt to its head, eyes wide and searching. 

“Hw’re ye n’w?”

And if that bomb didn’t take him out just a little. Wayne was sitting chest deep in freezing lake water, at four in the morning, tangled up with the canadian creature of the black lagoon and it was fucking speaking to him. He raised his head to meet those glowing green eyes again, took a deep shivering breath and said.

“Oh not so bad.” Lies. He was very overwhelmed right now. 

Now that Wayne had a chance to see it up close, it was hard not to stare. Other than it’s eyes, which had no whites and shined like emerald fuckin’ gemstones, the top half of it looked just like a scrawny, less hairy dude maybe a little younger than Wayne- wiry and muscular, smaller by a bit, with a mop of curly wet hair that hung around it’s face and stuck to it’s neck. Freckles and a scale or two decorated it’s body, everywhere that could be seen, pale skin making the seamless transition to a fully green-scaled tail somewhere around the hip bones. There were little fins that Wayne thought might be for steering, on his elbows, wrists and sides; they were laying flat against his body now. 

“S’rry.” It wheezed, and Wayne couldn’t help but wince; that was certainly not a voice meant for english, that’s for sure. But the fish continued anyway. “M’ Derry.”

“I’m Wayne.” It was only polite to introduce yourself. “I know.” Unless you were introducing yourself to a creepy mermaid, apparently. Wayne gave Darry an utterly unamused look and said- “Wish you weren’t so fuckin’ awkard, bud.” 

When those words left Wayne’s mouth Darry lit up, literally, the entire rainbow and then some bathing the water around them in a halo. Darry pressed up against Wayne’s chest, hands sliding lightly up his arms to rest on his shoulders. 

“A’right, bud. No awkward.” 

Wayne almost choked when, as the words left the merman’s mouth, his head dipped down, teeth and lips grazing sensitive skin through fabric. He heard Darry take a deep inhale, chest rumbling like a cat. 

“Take about 30% off ‘er there, Derry.” Wayne lifted his hand slowly to pat the merman’s arm and earned himself a toothy smile. Felt slimy as the bottom of the lake, for sure, but his hand wasn’t bit off and his new pal(?) didn’t even flinch, so he counted that as a win. Darry was a freaky lake monster, but Wayne could tell already that the guy was softer than 12-ply toilet paper. Even if he had a mouth full of lethal chompers. 

“Now I’m gonna freeze if I stay in here any longer, so you better let me up.” Darry whined, all the anxiety and tension returning to him in an instant. His clawed hands tightened on Wayne’s shoulders.

“Wayne, don’ tell. Please.” Those huge eyes pinned Wayne with a pleading stare. “ ‘m a secret. No tell ‘nyone.”

Wayne rubbed Darry’s arm again, thinking it might calm him down some. “O’ course not. It’ll be our secret.” He paused, looking out over the water and then back to Darry. You didn’t meet a mermaid every day, that was for GD sure- and technically, Darry was his neighbor. It was always polite to maintain good relationships with your neighbors. “And if you like, I’ll come back and visit ya. That’s my house right over there.” He pointed. 

That got Darry smiling again. Wayne heaved himself to his feet, dripping wet. The merman pulled away as he stood, eyes following the line of Wayne’s form as he straightened and peeled off his soaking flannel with a shiver. Playful hands tugged at his ankles, but didn’t drag him back down. 

“Alright. See ya, Dar.” And with that Wayne tore his eyes away from his new friend, trudged up the bank toward the field and the house beyond it. He felt eyes stay steady on his back until he’d crested the hill.

[soyeahitsmiddleearth]

Dimension Jumping pt. 4

The Fellowship x Reader

You went back to work, Pippin is triggered about cookies, and you gotta play mediator.

---

After that whole mushroom scare, you elected to no longer worry about the questionable things the hobbits consume. You kinda just leave it up to Sam to help you cook and make things that everyone likes, though it's hard to please so many people every night when you're not motivated to make more than one dish. 

Trips to the grocery store became a lot more expensive and frequent, and while you can definitely pay for it you know that you can't keep on like this forever. 

So you've decided that the best course of action to take is alternating between working at home and at the office so you can hunt down more leads. 

The reason your boss is so lenient on your attendance is because of your crystal clean record and nature of your job. 

Honestly, you don't even really have to go into work as is, but being as the office is the only place you can really get some human actual interaction (not including Brian). Now though, there's not much of a reason to go. 

But anyway, you decide to go into work today and have yet to tell everyone else, so when you walked out of your room that morning in your business casual outfit and greeted everyone normally, you got a bunch of weird looks. 

"Are you going out somewhere? To the store again, maybe?" Pippin asks, walking up to you with curiosity in his face. 

You reach down and ruffle his hair fondly, replying simply, "I'm going to work today."

"Work?" He asks, furrowing his eyebrows, "What about that man who won't stop bothering you?" 

Ah, you should've guessed he would ask about that, "I've just gotta deal with it, babe, it be like that sometimes." 

"Are you sure that's the best idea? He came to your home, after all." Aragorn pipes up from his spot on the couch.

And guess who's in his fucking lap again? That's right, Penny. That bitch (literally).

"I'm not going to be scolded by a dog thief." You reply faux-bitterly, pouting as your gaze fixes on your white fluff ball of joy. 

"Dog thief?" He repeats incredulously, shaking his head, "Just because your dog has taken to me doesn't mean-"

You put your hand up and interrupt not so kindly, "I don't wanna hear it." From the smile threatening to come on to your face, he can tell you're not truly angry or upset, so he allows himself to laugh a bit as he runs a hand down her soft back. 

"Alright," he pauses and his expression becomes more serious, "I still don't think it's a good idea, though. After you lied about being with another person, he's surely not going to be very kind." 

Fair, yes, but you don't care anyway. "I'll be fine, really. The only problem I'll probably have is being worried about all of you all day..." You sigh at that admittance and turn to go put on your boots. 

"If you're sure..." 

"I am." 

---

The day went about as good as you expected it to be.

Brian was all in your business, hanging out in your work area, talking to you and asking about 'Aaron' aka Aragorn and his brother 'Beau' aka Boromir, and touching your shoulders and stuff like a total creep-so. 

Of course, you didn't tell him to fuck off like you wanted to, but that okay because you don't fancy being laid off. 

When you get back you're greeted by two hobbits and a fluffy puppy. The latter of which immediately jumped on you and began to wag her tail so fast that she nearly turns back time. 

You crouch down and wrap your arms around her tightly, speaking in a high pitched voice, "Aw, who's my good girl? I missed you so much my sweet baby, oh I love you so much!" You kiss her multiple times and rock back and forth with her in your arms until she begins to pull back. 

She turns when you let her go and trots back to Aragorn, and the glare you point at him is so withering and resentful that it could've killed a thousand men. 

And by withering and resentful I mean pouty and petulantly irritated. 

He laughs at your expense, but you ignore him and turn to the hobbits and smile at them brightly, "Did ya miss me?"

"Y/N, do you want a cookie?" Pippin asks suddenly, not answering your question. 

"What?"

"A cookie. Like one of those round black and white cookies. Do you want one?" He clarifies, tapping his foot a few times while Merry sighs. 

You look at him weirdly and shake your head no, "Um, not at the moment. No." 

"How can you not want one?" 

"I just don't."

"Fine, then let's say you wanted one and there were some in the cupboard. What would you do?"

"Um, I guess I'd eat one if I were in the mood." 

"Exactly, that's what I'm saying." He states, nodding his head as he looks at Merry.

"Wait, what are you saying? I'm confused." He's literally making no sense. 

"That if someone wants a cookie, then they should get one. It's what people do." 

"I mean, yes I guess you're right..." And then it dawns on you, "Boromir and Aragon won't let you have a cookie." 

"No! Even though I'm practically starving, they won't consider it. They say I must eat lunch first!" He sounds like he's been offended in the worst of ways, insulted and stripped of his rights... what a drama queen. 

"And you don't find that fair?" You ask, leaning back on the balls of your feet as you look at Aragorn over the top of his head with a raised eyebrow. 

Aragorn just shrugs his shoulders.

"You just said that if you wanted a cookie then you would get one, so why can't I? I'm no child, and I can make decisions for myself." 

"Well, I guess that's fair. You are an adult." The only way out of this odd conversation is agreement. 

"It's just not fair. If they want one they can have one, if you want one then you can have one, but if I want one? The rules don't count. Like you said, it's not fair!"

You look at Merry and ask, "Are you having the same problem as him?"

"Yes, but I don't care as much." 

"Well, what are you both going to do about it? Hobbit rebellion?" 

Pippin crosses his arms and grumbles, "Well, I'm going to eat lunch. Because I have to. Because the world isn't fair to hobbits." 

You don't say anything to that and instead slowly walk away from the door, glancing around the room to see if anyone else is there. 

"Where is everyone?" You question, walking up to Aragorn who is crouched down and petting Penny. 

"Gimli and Boromir are outside with Frodo and Sam and Legolas... I'm not sure where he is." 

You hum your understanding and then ask, "So, no cookies for Pippin and Merry." 

He smiles at your question and chuckles quietly, standing back up to his full height, "It's not good for them to have confections without something sturdy first." 

"Well I'm sure you heard, but Pippin is very torn up about it. Absolutely devastated." Of course, you're joking and he can tell as much, though his little speech there almost made you want to comply and give him some cookies against their wishes. 

"Do not worry about them. Once they've eaten they'll get what they desire." He assures, looking over at the two whispering hobbits. 

---

They did end up getting their cookies, luckily for them, and they ate their lunches too. Eventually, Frodo, Sam and the rest of them came back inside, and you noticed right away that they're getting sick of being cooped up inside your house 24/7. 

You can probably take the taller bunch of them out at some point, but they're the least high maintenance of this group. Merry, Pippin, and Sam are just itching to go out and see more than just the rooms of your house and your backyard, and Gimli is starting to get rather stir crazy too. Frodo doesn't seem too bothered by it luckily enough, but that doesn't mean he's 100% good with staying in one place for so long. 

Also, it seems that in your world that ring doesn't have any power because the dark-haired hobbit explained that he hasn't felt or heard anything from it since arriving there. What it sounds like to you is the ring lost its connection since they're in another dimension entirely, which is both good and confusing. 

Anyway, you've been trying to come up with a way to take everyone out of the house at some point so they can see more than just the same things over and over, but you can't really come up with any sort of disguise or cover story that would explain the more vertically challenged 4 of them. Gimli could probably just barely pass if he were to wear taller shoes, and Legolas could probably get by with a hat to cover his ears... but still. 

You don't bring this issue up yet, but you do know that eventually, they'll want to leave and see some more so that they don't go mad inside your house. 

"Y/N?" Someone says loudly suddenly. 

You look over quickly and see Legolas staring straight into your soul. 

Was he talking to you? Did he ask you a question or something? Oh god, you don't know! "Um... yeah?" 

"You did not hear what I said." He states matter of factly, amusement sparkling in his eyes. 

You shake your head 'no' slowly, sheepishly rubbing the back of your head. "N-No, sorry... I was, er, thinking about something."

"May I ask what?" Ever the curious bastard. 

"It's nothing important really, what were you saying?" 

Your quick change in subject does not go by unnoticed, but there is no questioning on it on his part either. Instead, he repeats what he said before, "I only wished to know if I could accompany you on your next outing." 

"Um, well yeah that'd be nice but you'd have to like, wear a hat or something. Your ears will freak people out." You realize how that sounds right away and backtrack quickly, "N-Not that I think your ears are weird or anything! It's just people haven't seen anything like it here, s-so..." Oh god, why did you have to say it like that? 

He raises a delicate blond eyebrow and chuckles lightly, observing your flustered form with humor sparkling in his eyes, "I know you meant no offense. Please, you needn't be so wary of me or your words." 

He has such a whimsical way of speaking, and you find that you like it quite a bit. "Right, sorry... Well, um you can come with me but you've gotta wear a hat." This time when you say it, you say it with a bit more confidence. 

"I can do that." He replies easily. 

---

"Y/N?" Sam calls from his spot on the couch next to you. 

You turn your head away from the TV and look down at him, raising an eyebrow, "Yeah?" 

"Do you abuse drugs? Like how you told that man Boromir does." 

You laugh nervously and answer his question with a question, "Why do you ask?" 

"Because you seemed to know a lot about it when you explained it the other day." 

There is silence for all of 10 seconds. "Well you're damn right I abuse drugs. I see a drug, and I push the hell out of it! Get lost drugs." You exclaim, crossing your arms over your chest. 

Sam looks at you weirdly and asks more slowly this time, "But I thought they weren't alive?" 

"They aren't. It was a joke." 

Realization spreads across his face and he smiles this time, "Oh! Well, it was really funny!" 

You know it wasn't but you take it anyway and look back at the TV. "Well of course it was. I'm hilarious if you haven't already noticed." You don't actually find yourself to be that funny, but if you keep up the confidence and pretend like you know what you're doing; then no one else will question you or your humor. Why did he even ask you that anyways, it was completely random...

"Why did you ask?" You question with furrowed eyebrows. 

Sam's smile fades a bit but doesn't disappear completely, "Oh, well you see I was just thinkin' an awful lot about it and then I figured I might as well just ask since you've never been against answerin' my questions before." 

Fair enough. 

You nod your head in understanding and say nothing more about it. 

This comfortable silence prevails for a little while before there is a sudden crash in the guest room and some yelling. 

You almost get up to go ask what's going on, but Pippin storms out before you have to and goes to join everyone else outside. With a raised brow you turn your head to look back at Sam, but he only rolls his eyes and grumbles, "Those two are always gettin' into something." 

---

Later that night while everyone is winding down and getting ready for bed, though you're still in the living room with your laptop on your legs. 

The TV has long since been turned off so the only sound in the room is the soft clacking of your fingers hitting the letter keys. 

You look up sharply at the sound of a door opening and closing and see Merry leaving the guest room with a sour expression on his face. 

Right away curiosity gets the best of you, but you don't say or do anything right away and instead opt to watch him from over the top of your computer screen to see where he goes. Cause there have been a few instances where you've caught him and Pippin raiding your kitchen for some midnight snacks since you usually work in the dark so they don't see you right away.

Instead of heading towards the kitchen, though, he looks right at you and walks over, taking a seat next to you still without saying anything. 

"Merry?" You question after a moment of looking at him and him looking at the wall, your eyebrows furrowed, "Is everything okay." 

"Pippin isn't talking to me." 

Your mouth runs before you can even think of an actual proper response to that, "Enjoy it while it lasts." 

He looks up at you with an expression akin to annoyance on his face and then grumbles, "I was trying to." 

Ah, so this is more than just a silly little thing.

You move your computer off your legs and place it on the coffee table, turning towards him with your legs crossed on the couch, "Well, what happened? Why won't he talk to you." 

He doesn't reply right away, looking away from your face as he seems to deliberate over telling you or not, "He was being stupid earlier and I smacked him over the head and he dropped his treat on the floor and it got ruined." 

It's silent while you wait for him to go on, but he just continues to look at you expectantly. 

"Wait, that's it?" You ask incredulously, looking at him like he'd grown two heads. 

"Yes, that's it. Is there supposed to be more?" 

Good god, these guys are total babies. 

You sigh and shake your head at the ridiculousness of it all. Though you do have to fix this, so you get up walk over to the guest room and knock on the door lightly. 

Boromir is the person to answer the door, and when he sees you standing there he offers a smile, "Oh, hello Y/N." 

"Yes, hi. Is Pippin in there?" You question, standing up on your toes to look over his shoulder into the room. 

"This is about their argument." He states, not answering your question. 

"It is. Tell him to come here." 

He nods and turns his head, "Pippin, will you join us for a moment?" 

Said hobbit sits up from underneath his pile of blankets and looks over at the two of you wearily, but gets up and walks over regardless. "Yes? What is it?" He inquires, looking up between you and Boromir a couple of times. 

You take a step back and ask quietly so as to not disturb the others, "Why won't you talk to Merry?" 

"Because he ruined my food." He replies curtly, looking up at you with a frown on his face. "Did he send you here to convince me to talk to him again?" 

Yikes, he got you. "Maybe he did." 

"Well tell him I'm not interested." 

"Pippin, come now calm down. Surely Merry hasn't made you that angry." Boromir cuts in, placing his hand down on his shoulder. 

"Can't the two of you try and see this from my perspective?" 

A moment of silence passes by before you slowly crouch down in sync with Boromir. 

"Oh, it is different down here." You comment as a smile begins to creep on your face. 

Pippin doesn't say anything or react right away before he turns and goes back to his makeshift bed and crawls under the covers. 

You stand up normally again and look up at Boromir who also stands to his full height once more, "I think that may have been a mistake." 

"Undoubtedly so." 

You laugh lightly and then step out of the doorway. "I'll go break the news to Merry then, good night." And with that, you walk off down the hallway again and rejoin Merry in the living room. 

When you walk in he looks up and smiles with hope shining in his eyes. 

Poor dear. 

"Well?" He asks, standing up from his spot on the couch. 

"So, I talked to Pippin..." 

"And?"

"Now he's not talking to me or Boromir." 

His eyes go wide and he looks truly shocked. "What!? What did you do?" 

"Well he asked us to see things from his perspective and so we both crouched down to your height and it seemed he didn't quite like that." 

It's silent for about 10 seconds before he slowly continues, "So he's now not speaking to me, you,  or  Boromir? Because you couldn't keep yourself from making a short joke?" 

"That sounds about right." You nod along, plopping back down on the couch. "Hey, don't shoot the messenger."

"The messenger wasn't supposed to tease him more! He probably thinks I sent you to do that!" He complains, standing in front of you with his arms crossed. 

"Then maybe you shouldn't have messed up his food. You know how much he loves it." A rational argument on your end if you do say so yourself. It's true after all. You should be allowed to make short jokes if you want to damn it, and no cousinly spat is going to prevent you from doing just that. And let's be real, getting one of the tall dudes in on it only made it so much more awesome. 

"I suppose that's fair..." 

You nod your head and then pull your computer back into your lap, then say a bit softer, "You should just talk to him and tell him how sorry you are. He's your cousin- he loves you and won't let something silly like this split you up. I'm sure he's only trying to see how long you'll last before going crazy, anyways." 

"Yes... That is something he would do." 

"Mhm. There's no way he's actually mad at you, so go talk to him." You reach out a hand and pat his shoulder gently, a smile upturning the corners of your lips. 

He smiles vibrantly, reaching up to pat your hand on his shoulder lightly, "Thank you!" 

"My pleasure." 

[emptynarration]

AUs and Verses (Short Edition)

Here’s a collection of my favorite AUs and Verses! Hopefully a bit shorter and more easily understood uwu

[HERE’S THE LONG EDITION, WHICH INCLUDES A COUPLE MORE TINY VERSES!!! DO CHECK THIS OUT AS WELL if you’re interested]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Normal / Default Verse

[Here’s the story of how Author turned into Host!]

Author was very greedy. He wanted to become a literal god. His greed attracted an actual old god, who abused Author’s greed.

The old god, named Alden, forced Author to gouge his own eyes out.

After Author passed out, after mutilating himself, Alden “possessed” Author’s body. Normally, its omnipotence destroys human minds. But not Author’s.

Due to neither being able to overpower/destroy the other, they came to a compromise, and share the body between them. Their body was named “Host”, as it now hosts the old god together with Author.

Over time, they grew so intertwined, that they’re one very well working person, while also still being their own.

Twisted Minds AU

[Here are the Fanfics I wrote about the whole AU]

The egos all live in a manor together, everything was alright.

One day, the body Dark used rotted away, and got too hard to keep going; so he had to leave it. Without a human body containing the entity which is Dark, slowly seeped into the manor again, even though he tries his hardest to stay contained in what was once his office.

Due to his shell-less self, everyone was slowly changed. Emotions brought to extremes, personalities flipped, appearances growing inhuman, etc.

[Here’s a little post about the gist of it all]

Author was also affected, like everyone else. But, due to Dr Iplier wanting to use Author in an experiment, and things going sour for the writer, he was thrown “into” Dark. He nearly died. He was changed, his sight gone and powers changed.

This made him into Host. And Host, due to his powers, realized how wrong this reality is, and how fucked up it is. Thus breaking him out of the cycle of madness, as well as making him a terrified being.

Cursed AU

Set in a fantasy world, slightly medieval perhaps.

Author and Host are brothers. They live in a cabin in a forest, away from other people, happy with only themselves as company.

One day, someone Author angered tried to kill him. But instead of Author, Host was hit, and was quickly dying from a curse.

Author didn’t care when he was hit with a curse as well, angry, wanting to kill that woman, but Host dying in his arms took priority.

The curse Author was hit with was worse, though. It turned him into a sort of “undead” state. And to stay “healthy” and strong, he had to leech the life-force from other people. The touch of his bare skin does so.

He unintentionally quickened Host’s death.

Author was cursed to live forever with this curse, unable to die. Due to the strong connections between the brothers, as well as the circumstance of his death, Host is stuck as a ghost.

Host is technically bound to the cabin, but, Author wears the same slightly magical necklace that Host had. This makes Host able to go with Author, though not stray too far from him.

Teeny Twins AU

[Here is a collection of Fics I’m writing!]

All of the egos are a little younger than typically (Between 24-38 on average, outliers being Magnum, Dark, Wilford being older, and Host, Author being younger)

Author and Host are twins and live together in their cabin in the woods.

They know where the egos live and visit them quite often.

They have their respective powers, but don’t know their full extends.

Neither of them wants to be anything like a god or something alike; the thought alone makes them uncomfortable and even scared.

They are quite mysterious but also total rascals. Favorite past time: pranks. They’re best friends with the Jims and Bing due to that.

Author is more active, energetic, and reckless. Host is more quiet and thoughtful.

everything i wanted AU

[Here’s two little fics I wrote about it]

Host and Author are twins. They grew up very close, and were eventually taken in by Dark and Wilford.

Author was very very open to explore his own powers, always pushing and pushing and pushing.

Dark, with the excuse of fearing Author would be a danger to himself and especially others, banished Author into the void, where Host had also gotten hurt in the process.

Author sort of became one with the void, gaining strange weird powers. With them, he managed to escape the void -just in time to save his brother, who didn’t want to live without him.

Swap AU

Egos’ “roles” and sorta their powers being switched around!

Host is “swapped” with Dark.

He is monochrome. He wears a black trenchcoat and black tights, as well as knee-high black combat boots. He has a bright strand of hair, no eyes, and bandages around his eyes.

[Here’s some info about the AU and Host’s/Dr Iplier’s/Dark’s/Wilford’s backstory!]

He is called Darkiplier in this AU (pronounced Dark-eeplee-er? sorta french lol).

He talks in third person as a comfort mechanism.

He doesn’t really have a goal like normal Dark (getting revenge on Actor) but he takes care of the other egos and keeps them safe and in check.

He does his radio show still, but has no narrating powers.

Florist AU

[Here’s the main artwork for it]

Author is a very soft boy, and a florist.

He writes very dark and gruesome stories he publishes online in his free time.

He lives in a pretty much one room apartment right above his flower shop. He’s not very wealthy, but he survives.

He loves tattoos, but is shy about getting more than the one he already has (plus money is a slight problem).

Painter AU

[Here's some art for it]

A human AU! Every ego is a human

It's focused on Author, but Host also exists as his twin brother!

Author is a somewhat famous painter, but he doesn't really care about the money. He's super clumsy and ditzy, a whole himbo mess really. But he looks like a hot fashion model.

Author is more the traditional medium guy. Mainly painting, but also sculpting, pencil drawings, illustrations.

Host is more the digital artist. Mainly illustrations, but also some painting stuff, also uses 3D sculpting for art purposes. Probably works with video games, making art, doing some voice acting.

Wilford is one of Author's friends and a fashion designer. He recommends models (and friends) for Author. He drags Dark to their friend-meetings a lot.

So Dark's a singer. Just wanted to sing for fun, but somehow it turned into popularity (like Billie Eilish whoops)

So Eric is Dark's boyfrend and makes music with him. Plays piano. Sings a little but very shy to do so anywhere other than a little for Dark's songs. Too nervous to meet the gang but everyone knows from dark talking about Eric anyways

The Jims twins work mainly on the video game Host helps working on as well. They both do the writing, but only one of them also does programming. They eventually meet up with Host sometime after a lot of only online talking and somehow love happens eventually

Little Demon AU

Host is a demon, still called Host.

He is 7 inches tall.

He has dark purple horns and two tails, and no bandages, but keeps his eyes closed.

Looking into his eyes will cause the looker to be pulled into their own mind and be faced with their deepest and darkest fear.

Host will be able to see that and interact with the person there, but also leave them there alone to suffer.

He can “teleport” short distances, mostly through shadows.

Harpy AU

Host has no name he goes by, but will let anyone name him.

He is 8 inches tall.

He’s a brown thrasher harpy.

He has slightly darker skin (than Mark), short, like brown fuzz on his head resembling hair; white feathers with dark spots on his chest and hips down his thighs, where his legs then turn into bird’s feet; dark brown, almost black eyes. His wings have light brown feathers.

He mainly eats fruits, berries, nuts and insects.

He isn’t afraid to attack anything larger than him, going so far as to attack humans if he has to.

Mermaid AU (other versions depending on size!)

Host goes by the name of Host.

He had almost been caught once by humans, which resulted in the loss of his eyesight, and thick scars over his eyes.

His scales are golden. His fins are slightly see-through, and tipped green. His ears are fins. He has fins on his underarms. He has scales on his shoulders and arms.

He has scales that glow in the dark, and markings on his face which also glow in the dark (not visible unless glowing)

He’s a siren, and thus can speak and understand English.

Underwater mermaids communicate via clicking sounds (kinda like morse code, but different).

Human AU [Second Version]

Host is named Markus Barker. Sometimes uses Host as nickname.

He is either: Born blind (sclera/pupil milky).                       Blind due to a disease (Neuromyelitis Optica).

He lives on his own with his pets. He either:     Lives in his cabin in the forest.                       Lives on the outskirts of town with a garden.

He has an older brother (Arthur, world-wide known author).

He works on a rather popular podcast as main-narrator. He also either: Works at a radio station.                    Stays at home (financial help from his brother).

Can also go with human Author, the aforementioned brother of Host.

Both can also exist without brother.

Human Slave AU

Host is named Markus Barker. Host is his nickname though

He is either: Born blind (sclera/pupil milky).                       Got his eyes gouged out by an owner.

He had been sold as slave when he had been a young child (around 4 y/o?).

[quitetommy]

Valentines’s day

this is literally the worst crap ive ever written and i absolutely hate it but i hope you enjoy. i was gonna do a sad one bc i hate valentines day but i made it somewhat happy so enjoy i guess. sorry ive been gone so long. love youuuu

Tom reached his hand out across the bed, groaning. Morning sounds and breath escaping his small lips. The brunet boy half expected his hand to meet warmth; to meet his girl. He lifted his head, a soft pout on his lips when his hand met nothing other than the cold sheets on the other side of the bed. He sat up fully and pulled his knees to himself; he was sad. Maybe if he could just wrap his limbs up together, he would feel whole again. His brown eyes fell onto her side, the side she should be. Her beautiful hair should be sprawled out, mouth open and snores and little words leaving it. She should’ve been his first sight on that cloudy London day. He shouldn’t have felt so stupid for the things he said.

He really couldn’t remember the argument now. It had to have been something silly, stupid.  That’s how it always went, right? He wished his pretty girl was with him. He just wanted to wrap his arms around the smaller girl, smell her hair and kiss her head until she squealed away from him. He missed her laugh and the way her eyes crinkled when she did so. He missed how insecure she got with her smile and how she would cover her mouth as if trying to keep all the sounds in. It was no use though, they always escaped. He just wanted to call up his girlfriend and tell her how sorry he was, how stupid he is. He wanted to feel her tiny arms wrap around his larger, muscled, body. Everything that she hated about herself, he missed.

Standing up from the sad droopy bed, he slipped on some sweatpants and shirt. It was cold in the tiny apartment. He was always warm with her around. He was able to carry himself into the kitchen, passing by the picture that was put up on the white wall. It was Tom and Y/N; smiles on both their faces. God, he loved his girl. How could he fix this, was the question picking at his brain while he made his morning tea.

His heart ached as he ignored her cup. The ghost of a smile pressed into his features, thinking about when they first bought that mug- her mug.

Y/N was standing next to a shelf in the store and Tom was growing annoyed. It was late and he was tired and hungry and he wanted to be home. Y/N was all giggly and she was happy to be out with her man. With a pout and a false glare, he said to her, “Y/N, darling, put that back. You do not need another mug. We have enough at home.”

Home. That felt good to say. The two had moved in together a month prior to then and they both loved it more than anything in the whole world. His darling picked up the yellow sparkly mug anyways. She put on her best cheesy smile and gave her best puppy dog eyes. She knew Tom couldn’t resist. And her assumptions were right, because only seconds later he was caving and taking the mug from her and buying it.

He almost pulled it down too, but then quickly realized that she was only a ghost now. There was no more love within this household, right? No, he loved the pretty girl. And she loved him- they were just in a fight. They would get over this, right?

The front door opened, his heart jumped. Maybe it was-

“Aye, Tom. You up, mate?” Harrison’s voice rang out, Tessa letting out an excited bark. Haz shushed her and made his way through the flat, stopping when seeing his mate leaning against the counter. The blond boy took in his mate’s stance; sadly leaning against the counter as he sipped his hot tea.

Tom sighed after taking a sip of his awfully bitter tea (Y/N always made it perfectly), “Haz, you alright?”

“Yes, but you sure don’t seem it. Mate, you can’t keep doing this.” Tom sighed again at his friend. He was just so mad. At himself? The mystery man? His girl? He didn’t know anymore. All he knew is that he wanted her back. It had been over three days since he had seen his girl and it was now valentine’s day. You know, the day you're supposed to spend with your significant other?

“Have you seen ‘er?” Another sip of the bitterness. He was tired and lonely. All he wanted was a hug from his pretty lady. Harrison opened his mouth but then hesitated, it wasn’t much but the sad boy caught it. “You have, haven’t you? How does she seem? Ask ‘bout me?”

Harrison frowned again and placed his hands on the island in front of him. “Once or twice.”

“You know, she should be ‘ere with me. Not at yours.”

“Well, this is your fault, mate.” Harrison nodded, knowingly. Tom frowned and set his tea down. It was gross and he didn’t want it anymore. He would settle for one of the waters in the fridge.

After taking a long needed sip, he nodded too. “I know. Has she said anything about comin’ home?” Tom walked across the room and his emotions flipped when he saw the empty bag sitting near his friend’s feet. “She sent you to get her things?”

“I-I’m sorry, mate. She’s just not ready to come back home yet.”

“That’s bullshit!” Tom was a new kind of angry. He could feel his anger boil up inside of him and squeeze at his throat. “I’m coming back with you. Given ‘er enough space. This ends now!”

After ten minutes of arguing with the angry man and then another fifteen of driving, the boys were finally at Harrison’s flat and Y/N’s safe house. Harrison was pulling his car to a stop in the parking lot and Tom was out before the engine was even stopped. His legs carried him to the front door and let himself in. He was angry and sad and more than over this whole hiding out thing. He just missed his girl.

Once the boy made it into the colorful home, he spotted her. She was on the couch, looking out the window, sadly. “Y/N!”

His voice was a shock to her. She really wasn’t expecting to see him for at least a little while more. Harrison had completely failed at his mission and she was pissed. Harrison could tell that as soon as he walked into the room, her surprised eyes shifted to his and instantly turned to anger. Harrison could feel the anger that was in the room, so he opted out of staying and said, “I’ll be in my room if you need anything. Please don’t.”

Y/N didn’t speak until she heard the boy’s room door close. She let out a sigh, “Tom, what are you doing here?”

“What am i doing here? What are you doing here? Y/N, please come home.” His voice was broken, tired. He wanted her back in his arms so badly, he would do anything she asked.

“Tom,” she had sighed again and Tom felt himself break. He walked towards her and knelt before her. His eyes filled with tears as he looked up at her. His arms were wrapped around her waist, hers on his shoulder. She didn’t want to look at him because if she did she knew she would cave. His voice came out small, filled with sorrow and regret. He was broken without his girl, “Please. Please don’t. Just listen, please.”

She pulled back, eyes close, tears threatening. “You kissed ‘er, Tom!!” Y/N’s voice was loud and angry. It wasn’t any of the things that Tom loved. It wasn’t happy to see him, or happy to be with him or telling him that she loved him. Instead it was yelling at him. This was a different kind of anger. This was way worse than anything he had ever seen. She was hurt. Her eyes were wide, filled with rage and her hands were thrown out in exasperation.

Tom was on his feet now, “No, I didn’t!” And that was the truth. He hadn’t, he wouldn’t ever cheat on his girl.

“Then what happened?! Why was she there then?!” Y/N was crying now. The her that had ruined things between them was a friend of Tom’s. This friend was in the picture way before Y/N had entered it, and she had the biggest crush on Tom. It was obvious, or so Y/N thought. Y/N has come home a week ago, tired from work and ready to see her long-time boyfriend. She had just wanted to curl up next to him and talk about her day, but when she opened the door she had been met with her boyfriend kissing said girl.

“For you!” He was screaming too, tears rushing out. Y/N was stunned. Her mouth opened a bit and she took a confused step back. “W-What?”

“Y-Yeah,” he was angry at himself. He hadn’t wanted to tell her. He pulled something out of his pocket and handed it to her. “This is why she was there. I was asking her if it was something you would like.”

Y/N took the little black box from her boyfriend with pain and love in her chest. Opening the top, she let a cry out. It was a ring- an engagement ring. “. . .Tom,” she was shaking her head, closing the box softly, “this still doesn’t explain why you two were kissing. You want to get married, but- but, you’re off kissing other girls? That makes no sense.”

“I told you she kissed me! I was askin’ for her opinion on everything and she started sayin’ that I should be with her and not you and when I told her that you were the one for me, she kissed me! And then, you walked in! Darling, I swear. I’ve never lied to you and I’m not going to start now.”

It was quiet for a moment. Tom looking at his girl, wondering what was going to come next; Y/N looking at the box in her tiny hands, hating herself for not listening to him.

Before Tom knew what was happening, Y/N was kissing him. Without missing a beat, he kissed back. God, he missed her lips. He missed kissing her and holding her, he missed just about everything about her. He could taste the salty tears that was streaming down their faces and he was breathing hard and fast.

Y/N pulled back and Tom whined at the lost contact, his eyes closed, mouth open with small breaths leaving it. Y/N was on her tiptoes, her face pressed into Tom’s neck. “I’m so sorry. Tommy, I’m so sorry.”

Tom pulled away and placed his hands on her face, “It’s okay, darling, it’s okay. ‘m just glad to have you back.” She kissed him again, mumbling against his lips, “I missed you.” She pulled away from him again, smiling this time. “Think you have somethin’ to ask me, no?”

Tom laughed and nodded, he took the box from her hands and opened it. “Darling, would you do me the honor of making me the luckiest guy ‘round and marry me?”

“Yes. yes, of course, Tommy.” She laughed as he placed the beautiful ring on her left hand. He then pulled her in for another kiss, “I love you.”

“Hey,” Y/N tapped his shoulders and he hummed happily, “Happy Valentine’s day.”

“Happy Valentine’s day.”

Taglist; @yoinksholland @spider-bitten @spideres @bi-writer-in-the-dark @marvelouspottering @quacksin @tommyholland2014 @Friendscallme-emily @smexylemony @tom-hollands-eyelash @tomblrholland @spidey-pal @lovelyh0lland @spideymood @positiveparker @rainbow-marvel @positiveparker @procrastinatingparker @your-daily-dose-of-fangirl @Bodakcello @sleepybesson @omfgmandym @spideyshcllands

crossed out means it wouldnt tag sry

[minimus-ambus]

You’ll Shoot Your Optic Out!

This was my secret santa fic for @browniepeach!

Also, here’s the fic on ao3! (first time writing cygate!!)

“You should get him a gun.”

“I’m not going to buy Tailgate a gun, Whirl.”

“A sword, then! You’ll be matchy-matchy….” Whirl cooed, his optic glittering at the prospect of the couple wielding matching swords. He clicked his claws together excitedly.

Cyclonus sighed heavily, trying to ignore how the bot kept shoving himself into his personal space. He took a sip of his drink; he wasn’t overcharged enough for this. “No, Whirl.”

“Ugh, fine!! But why not a gun??” Whirl groaned rather dramatically, slumping over the bar counter and nearly knocking off several glasses. Swerve squeaked in alarm and dove to catch the few that did.

“He’ll shoot his optic out.”

A snort of laughter came from the floor. Whirl and Cyclonus peered over the counter to spot Swerve, who was cradling several glasses in his stumpy arms. “Oh, uh-” Swerve blushed a bit, “-it’s a thing. From a movie. Earth movie, it’s called a Christmas Story, and this kid, he’s like, obsessed with this one toy gun that he wants but everyone tells him ‘you’ll shoot your eye out’ and-”

“Well this is boring and I hate it.” Whirl cut off Swerve’s rambling. He stood up from the stool he had been sprawled across, gave a lazy salute to Cyclonus, and started for the door. “I’m gonna go steal Magnus’s desk tidy so I can gift it back to him tomorrow. Good luck in your present hunting! Consider the sword idea!”

Cyclonus watched him bounce away, then sighed again. He turned his gaze back onto Swerve, who was now putting the glasses into the sink. “Y’know,” Swerve said as he began washing them, “maybe I could help out in your quest!”

“It’s not really a quest, Swerve. I simply need to find something Tailgate would like.��

“Still, it seems like you’re having some trouble.” The minibot rested an elbow on the counter, flashing a grin that looked just a bit too devilish. “And I... have an idea.” He leaned in and whispered something to Cyclonus.

Cyclonus drew back to give Swerve a look. “And you are sure that Tailgate will like this.. present?”

“Hey,” Swerve shrugged, “you got any better ideas?”

Cyclonus frowned. A minute passed, and Swerve’s confident grin began to falter as the larger bot tapped a claw against the counter. When he finally spoke, it was with such suddenness Swerve flinched.

“Very well. Where do I find this plant?”

Tailgate was muttering to himself as he walked down the hallways of the Lost Light. “-maybe another sword? No no, he’s already got a good one… a dagger? That’s kinda like a baby sword... ” Tailgate paused and briefly pictured Cyclonus holding a tiny sword. His visor flashed as he giggled, and he shook his head to rid it of the image before continuing on his way.

Approaching their habsuite, Tailgate became more twitchy, twisting his hands as he muttered more frantically. “Maybe a song? No, he already knows every tetrahexian chant there is… and he didn’t like much pop music other than our song… Scrap, what am I gonna-”

Tailgate went abruptly silent as he heard noises coming from the habsuite.

“Why can’t you stay- argh- still?! You can stand like you’re made out of stone in my bar and scare people away just by moving, but you can’t- tch- let me put this on???”

“They are sensitive, so I would appreciate if you exercised more care when touching them.”

Tailgate’s steps screeched to a stop. Well, not literally—he was quite careful not to make a sound. Even though they were not visible in any describable way, his optics went cartoonishly wide. His cheeks turned a light blue, and he began edging towards the door.

“I too am being careful! If you’d just stop- stop shifting-!”

A powerful growl came from inside the habsuite. Tailgate startled, and his engine turned over with a sputter.

All sound from within the habsuite stopped in an instant. Tailgate let out a small “whoops,” before he decided to face whatever he had interrupted. Before he could even open the door, however, it slid open to put him face to face with Swerve. “Oh! Tailgate, hi!” He smiled a bit too widely.

“Uh, what’s-” Tailgate began, but Swerve cut him off.

“Aw man look at the time I gotta go open the bar!” He scurried to the end of the hallway, looking back with a more relaxed smile to say, “you two should come by later—we’re doing some christmas carol karaoke!”

Tailgate blinked after him for a second. Then, with a muttered “ookay” he turned back to the door. It slid open smoothly, revealing…

Uh. Well.

Tailgate’s processor fritzed a bit, struggling to recognize the scene in front of him.

Cyclonus was sitting on the berth, his arms crossed. His skeletal face was twisted up in a peculiar expression, like he was trying not to scowl and partially failing. A light blush had bloomed over his cheek-plates, and his optics seemed determined not to meet Tailgate’s flashing visor.

And from one horn, a sprig of mistletoe was tied up with string, It dangled just over Cyclonus’s face, which was turning redder the longer Tailgate stared at it.

“...Well?” Cyclonus shifted. Tailgate felt warmth bloom in his chest as he realized that Cyclonus was embarrassed. That. Was. So. CUTE. The corners of his facemask turned up as he bounced on his feet.

“Cycloonuusssss!!!!” Tailgate put his hands over his facemask as he hopped over to the berth and clambered up onto it. “You look adorable!”

Cyclonus hunched his shoulders—he looked like he’d almost fold in on himself if Tailgate kept cooing over him like this. But he had dealt with his conjunx’s adoration before.

Sighing, he forced his struts to relax, and took Tailgate’s hand. “I was having difficulty thinking of a proper present for you… Swerve suggested this-” he looked up to the plant that hung over his optics, “-plant. I believe it has a human tradition associated with it?”

Tailgate glanced to where Cyclonus was holding his hand, and his visor sparkled. “Aw, Cyclonus, you big sap…”  

Cyclonus smiled at his conjunx, leaning down to deliver a soft kiss to Tailgate’s facemask. The minibot couldn’t help but let out a small laugh, but eagerly pressed into the kiss.

When they finally pulled away, Tailgate sighed. “I only wish I had a gift for you too, Cyclonus… I couldn’t really think of anything.” His gaze listed off to the side.

Cyclonus put a clawed hand to Tailgate’s cheek, forcing him to meet the soft red glow of his optics. “Tailgate.. your love is the greatest gift I could ever receive.”

Tailgate’s visor flashed, his cheeks heating in a blue blush. “Aw gosh, Cyclonus!” His optics dimmed as he turned away, waving a hand as if to dismiss such a mushy sentiment. “You’re making me blush...”

He abruptly turned back and fixed Cyclonus with a serious look. “But seriously tell me what you want cause I’m struggling here.”

Cyclonus blinked. A surprised laugh erupted from his throat, and he shook his head in amazement. Tailgate huffed. “Hey, you know I’m jealous of people that can do things!!! I can’t not get a present for you if you’ve gotten one for me!” Cyclonus only laughed harder, his deep voice echoing out of their habsuite and down the hall. Tailgate scowled, swatting at his conjunx in annoyance. “Stop laughing!! Cyclonus!! ARGH!!!”

Cyclonus cut off the minibot’s protests by pulling him into another kiss.

“.....M’still mad at you, you know,” Tailgate muttered.

“Mmm,” Cyclonus hummed.

[harperthejay]

Writober 1.1 - “Candy”

Alright, I’ll be the first to admit that the prompt is pretty loosely mentioned in the actual writing. It was supposed to be about a guy who bought some valentine candy and then dropped it at someone’s feet on accident, and they hit it off, but ... well, sometimes when you start writing, you lose control of where things are going. I didn’t really know where Andrew’s tipsy walk home would take him, and it turns out it took him right to - well, you’ll see soon enough. It should also be noted that this prompt was for a few days ago, and while I did write MOST of it then, I have been touching it up since and just finished. @writerofwriting

Chocolate and Pipe Tobacco

Andrew Carson’s month was going, in a word, terrible. February 14th was right around the corner, and the light of his life, the one he loved with all of his heart, had left the city. Left the country, in fact! “A higher calling,” Caroline had called it. Andrew called it “missionaries stole my fianceé”. That was one of their many differing beliefs: Caroline believed a divine hand placed purpose into every moment; Andrew believed moments only had the purpose you gave them. And the moments he gave her apparently weren’t enough.

He couldn’t be mad at her. Not really. Regardless of the reason, she was building homes for needy children. Or hospitals, or something. Her messages started blurring together after the text she sent last week: “im so sorry andy but ive been accpeted for the mission trip”. He ran that text through his mind over and over again, word for word, and after a week of dwelling, he had gone from shock and disbelief to sadness to anger.

“I mean, how hard is it to spell ‘accepted’ right?!” he asked the bartender as she popped the cap off of another cider. “It literally shows you how to spell the word on your phone. It’s harder to spell it wrong, for fuck’s sake.” He took a swig from the bottle, letting the tangy pumpkin flavor distract his thoughts for a moment.

“It could have been worse, Aaron,” the bartender offered in response. “She could have left a post-it note or something.” She gave a slow shrug.

Andrew blinked. “Uh. Yeah. I mean.. I guess? It’s Andrew, by the-” The bartender had already moved to the next customer, leaving him alone to watch the hockey game above the bar in uncomfortable silence.

A few minutes passed, then an hour, and the game was over. His team had lost, which seemed to be a pretty good bookend to his Saturday, so he paid his tab and stood up with a slight wobble in his step. “Later,” he said as he waved lazily to the bartender, who hadn’t noticed Andrew stand up. The bell above the doorway jingled in an annoyingly upbeat way that made him want to rip it out of its goddamn place and throw it into the fucking road, but he reasoned that was the ciders talking, and it might not be a good plan.

Home was about a mile away, and a walk sounded like a good way to clear his mind. Ten minutes later the wind picked up, stinging his face with the light bits of mist that had been merely annoying until then. He grimaced accusingly at the sky and then ducked into an alleyway and leaned against the brick wall of a failing restaurant to take temporary solace from the weather. He rubbed his hands together briskly, breathing into them for warmth.

“Where the hell’d this wind come from?” Andrew jumped at the sudden sound of the voice coming from across the alley. He hadn’t noticed anybody when he walked in, but if he was being honest with himself, he wasn’t paying much attention. “Oh. Um. Yeah. It sucks.”

The stranger chuckled and nodded, smiling and looking out at the street. He stared at the cars for a few moments before turning his attention back toward Andrew. “At least it isn’t raining, right?”

“Yeah, I guess.” He despised small talk, and though he wasn’t going for rudeness, the ciders in his belly left him ill-equipped for tact.

“I’m Barry.” The stranger pulled a hand out of his wool coat’s pocket to give a small wave. His other hand pulled out a fun-size chocolate bar, already unwrapped, and he took a bite. “Andrew,” Andrew nodded in reply.

“Good to meet you, Andrew.” Barry continued to smile as he ate the second half of the candy bar. “Milky Way?”

“No, thanks,” Andrew said, then he shook his head a moment later as his stomach gave a small grumble. “Actually, yeah, that’d be cool.” He held his hand out to take an offered Milky Way from Barry, unwrapped it, and shoved it into his mouth, letting out an audible groan of satisfaction as he chewed.

Barry laughed and nodded appreciatively. “Exactly how I feel about them.” Suddenly, the sound of the wind died down, and all they could hear was the passing of cars on the street. “Looks like it’s clearing up. You gonna get home alright, Andy?”

Andrew shuddered and tried to push a frown off of his face. “Andrew,” he said sternly. “And yeah, I’ll be fine.”

“Sorry. Andrew. You heading that way?” Barry motioned with his thumb the direction Andrew had been walking, and Andrew nodded. “Me too. You mind if I tag along? I’ve just got a few more blocks.”

With a shrug and a sigh, Andrew pushed off of the wall and began walking. “Yeah, I guess.” After a few steps that were a bit more confident than they should have been, he stumbled, and Barry caught him gently by the shoulders.

“Whoa, you alright, Andy- er, Andrew?”

“Yeah, yeah, I’m ..” He sighed and then laughed. His cheeks were beginning to flush bright red, a combination of the alcohol, the wind, and the embarrassment. “I guess the ciders hit me a little harder than I thought they did.”

“No problem, man. Let’s get you home.” Barry grinned and nodded, a steadying arm moving around Andrew’s shoulders as they walked down the sidewalk. A bit more small talk commenced, and Andrew had to admit that he didn’t hate it as much as he wanted to. Barry was easy to talk to, he found, and funny, to boot. Both qualities were welcomed, given his bad mood.

Another fifteen minutes passed (the rest of the walk should have only taken about ten, but tipsy stumbling slowed the pair down a bit), and Andrew held his hand up. “Wait, whoa, hang on.” He shot a look over his shoulder, then laughed aloud, his face still beet red. “That’s me, back there.” He motioned vaguely at the apartment they’d just passed, and they turned back toward it. “Thanks. This was .. I mean, I had a good time. A good walk.” He shook his head. “Whatever. It was good to meet you, Barry.”

“You too, Andrew.” Barry’s smile was warm and genuine, and Andrew found himself staring at his eyes. They were dark, dark blue, darker than he’d seen before, and he swore for a moment he could see glittering flecks of silver-white in them. He leaned forward to inspect closer, and was surprised when he felt Barry’s lips pressing against his.

They were soft, softer than he had thought a man’s could be, and that was the first surprise. He was cleanly shaven as well, like silk, and Andrew could feel his own stubbled face rub against smooth skin. There was a taste of chocolate and pipe tobacco on his breath that he didn’t find unpleasant. His eyes, widened in shock, adjusted to the situation, and finally closed lazily as he leaned his body against Barry’s, hands moving to rest on his waist. He felt a warm, gentle tongue trace slowly over his lips, and heard an unwitting whimper from himself. Just then, as he pressed himself against Barry’s hip, they parted, Barry’s hand coming up to cup his cheek gently. His palm felt just a touch clammy, though Andrew didn’t mind, and without realizing, he nuzzled against the touch.

“You’d better get inside and get some rest, Andy.”

Andrew almost protested the nickname, but something about the way it was said, sultry and kind and erotic, made him not mind as much. “That was ..”

“Unexpected?” Barry smirked and raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah.” Andrew cleared his throat, catching another whimper in his throat before it escaped. “I didn’t ..” He shook his head, feeling like his whole body might spontaneously burst into flames. He also became acutely and embarrassingly aware of his excitement, which he felt pressing into Barry’s hip. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be.” Barry leaned forward and gave a gentle, quick rub of his nose against Andrew’s, his chocolate-and-tobacco breath warm against Andrew’s lips. “Get some rest.”

In a daze, Andrew turned toward the door. He fumbled with his keys and finally got it open. As soon as he’d stepped inside, he turned around. “Wait, I didn’t get your -” There was nobody there. A panging sense of disappointment washed over him as he closed the door and slumped on to the couch. He pulled his cell phone out of his pocket, and something came out with it; a matchbook. On the back, in ballpoint pen, was written, “Lovely to meet you, Andy. 555-0777 ~ Baraqiel (Barry)”.

He sounded the name out slowly, “Ba-ra-qi-el,” and he nodded with the smirk of a boy with a crush. “Beautiful.” Before long, his eyes closed, and scenes of dancing among the stars and angelic kisses filled his dreams.

[z-nyx]

Didn’t See it Before - Chp 7

Hey guys :) I know I keep making promises...and breaking them...and for that I am really sorry. I’m not able to create a structure of my week because it’s different every time.  I think after this series, I am going to stick to one-shots for a while and open request so I can  💕

A/N: I had writers block over the weekend but after listening to ‘Sam Smith - Say it First’, I was able to get an idea of the direction the chapter should go in. This will be the last chapter I do for ‘Didn’t See it Before’. I hope you like it ☺️

~ Nyx-bx is out✌🏾

Introduction to Nyx-bx

Pairing: Jungkook x Reader (Ft. Taehyung)

Genre: Angst (I think...), Fluff (eventually), College/University Au!

Word Count: 1502

Last Chapter: 7

Previous Chapters: 1 2 3 4 5 6

Summery: Just when you thought you had life figured out. Just when you thought everything was working out in your favour. You had to fall for him. Everyone around you could see you were falling for this guy…literally. You didn’t want want to admit it. You felt if you admitted it, then it was true.

~

The soft sound of your music played in the background as the rays of the sun pierced through the curtains, giving you a warm cozy feeling. It felt good. You couldn’t help but form a smile from ear-to-ear. it felt really good. You hadn’t gotten well deserved rest in a while, and this, even though it was temporarily, was absolute bliss for you. The fact that you didn’t have to set an alarm on a Friday morning to attend a lecture, or worry about having to get ready for work like some of the students, felt almost surreal with the lack of sleep you have had preparing for mid-terms in the upcoming week. But before you could start enjoying your prolongated weekend, you had some business to take care.

You removed your phone from the speaker dock and searched through your messages until you landed on Jungkook. Last night, after Tae shed some light on the whole situation, you thought it would be best for you to talk things through with him in person. The study session, as you recall, didn't exactly go the way you wanted it to go. 

11:47 You: Hey Jungkook...are you free today? I was wondering if I could talk to you. I think we both have some explaining to do...

You paused for a second, hovering over the ‘Send’ button. You didn’t know if he was going to want to meet up with you, or even reply to you. But your nerves were the last of your problems so you pressed send in hopes his reply will come within minutes.

It would be a lie to say a hundred things were not running through your mind at the moment. You sat up in your bed just thinking to yourself. Although the mid-terms were a priority to you, and were right around the corner, the one thing you could only concentrate on was Jungkook. Over the pass few weeks, he somehow become part of your daily thought process.

You remembered back to when you first felt something for Jungkook. Back then you didn’t think anything of it - you thought it was only a small pang of jealousy because he had picked to spend time with a girl he met in first year, (whose name you didn’t bother remembering), rather than spend time with you, like he had promised. As the weeks progressed, a mix of nervousness and extreme happiness were emotions you started to feel whenever you saw him. When you when you were with him, you felt comfortable and you could just be yourself. it felt good. But...better.

Nowadays, the feeling was much stronger but you hid your emotions well. You hid them well from yourself. Tae had confronted you countless times, but you still denied it. Even with all the emotions you felt when Jungkook gave you the slightest touch, or performed a simple kind gesture, you didn’t accept your emotions. You didn’t see it before. It wasn’t until now you were sure of your feelings.

12:05 Jungkook: What’s there to talk about?

‘Is he seriously still mad about yesterday?’ you scoffed. Although you were quick to get annoyed, you really didn't want to argue with him. 

12:07 You: I think you already know the answer to that Jungkook. 

14:07 You: Just meet me at the park on campus in an hour, please?

14:09 Jungkook: Fine, whatever.

Looking at his response, he was definitely still angry with everything that happened yesterday.

You left your bed sluggishly and made you way to your bathroom to freshen up. You took your time to get ready since the walk to the park wasn’t that far from your dorm. As you were leaving, you took one of your jackets from the hooks and exited. While making your way out of the halls, you saw Brooke. You felt the need to apologies because of what happened during the study session.

“Hey Brooke” you said quietly giving her a small smile. “Hey Y/n, are you okay?” she responded with a bright smile. “Yeah, I’m...good actually” you replied choosing your choice of words carefully. “That’s good to hear” she said beginning to walk away. “Erm...I actually wanted to apologise if I’ve been acting weird over the pass few days. I’ve just been a bit uh...stressed” you said feeling a bit awkward. “’Stressed’ meaning ‘having issues with Jungkook’?” As she confronted you, you looked at her in slight shock but mostly embarrassment. With your mouth parted, you were ready to explain the situation. “Hey, it’s alright. You don’t need to explain yourself. I just hope you two can work things out. I don’t think I’ve hung out with all of you together. it’ll be nice” After giving you a warm smile, she made her way back to her dorm as you began to walk towards the park.

~

Although you arrived 10 minutes early, Jungkook was already sat at the a park bench located next a big tree. He looked lost in thought but his expression was adorable and you couldn’t help but smile at yourself. A few seconds later, Jungkook looked up and made eye contact with you. You took a deep breathe and prepared yourself to confess your feelings.

Taking a seat opposite him, you greeted him with a soft ‘hey’ as he only gave you a week a smile. After a moment of awkward silence, Jungkook spoke up getting straight to the point. “So how long has this thing with you and Tae been going on for?” You looked at him with an ‘are you serious’ expression. “ Seriously?” You asked. You thought he was joking but by the look on his face, he was being serious. He looked at you dead in the eye. “Who told you that me and T-” “Just answer the question Y/n!“ He cut you off and you could tell he was getting restless. “Seriously Jungkook.There is nothing going on between me Tae.” you were serious and you hoped he got that.

Jungkook scoffed and stood to his feet. He walked towards the tree and back to the bench in annoyance and frustration. “How do you expect me to believe that Y/n, when you are always with him?!” “ Jungkook. Calm down, okay? raising your voice isn’t going to solve anything” He looked away as he let some air escape his from his mouth. “I’ve only been spending time with him because he and I don’t see much of each other. Hate to break it to you, but you aren’t the only friend that need to make time for...’ You could tell Jungkook had calmed down a little. He looked taken aback at the sudden realization go your words. “I’m sorry if you felt like I was pushing you away,” you apologised, “but you need to understand that there is nothing going on between me and Taehyung and there never will be”. You grabbed his hand as you stood up and looked up at him, reassuring him. Jungkook looked down at you hand in his and smiled to himself.

Letting go of his hand, you began to confront him about his actions. “By the way, you also have some explaining to do.” He looked at you in confusion, “About what?”. “About how you don’t have feelings for Brooke?” “Ah...that. Let me guess, Tae told you?” You nodded as you both chuckled at the situation. 

“Why did you do it?”. He lost eye contact with you, trying to find the right words to answer your question. “Er...honestly...I think I  wanted a distraction I guess.” “A distraction from what?”, you asked. “From you” He said slowly making eye contact. But of course, you being as slow as ever, you didn’t get what he was trying to say.”From me?!?! What did I do?” Jungkook casually laughed at you. Despite your processing skills, you were genuinely confused as to why he would want a distraction from you. “Seriously, Jungkook! Why did you need a dis-”

Before you could finish your sentence, you felt Jungkook’s lips crash into yours. You weren’t expecting it. Your eyes widened in shock. You felt heat rise in your cheeks. As Jungkook pulled away, he noticed your wide eyes and surprised facial expression. “You’re so cute” he smiled to himself. “Ya...why did you do that? you looked down in embarrassment. “I like you Y/n. A lot. For a while now actually. I didn’t think you would feel the same way so I thought about failing for someone else-” “Hold up. Who told you I have feelings for you?”. You held a smug look on your face as you waited for his response. “Well, you didn’t pull away when I kissed. it tells me all I need to know about how you feel for me.” Jungkook said with a smirk and you couldn’t help but smile too. He put his hands on his waist and pulled you closer to him. Raising one hand to the back of your neck, he pulled you in for another kiss. 

[cosmosogler]

hawaii part 3

hmm yes it does appear that i left writing the journal off until 11:30. that was a mistake. i got distracted. it’s easier to not think about things than to think about things. it’s... easier to think about other things too.

reading my post yesterday in order to get my bearings i realized how much i dislike the way i “sound.” no wonder everyone treats me like a man baby.

the public beach was fine. i didn’t want to stand around at the hotel and play pokemon all day so i went to a beach with bigger waves with my brother, austin, thomas, dad, and uncle mike. the neighbors came too, later. everyone except me and uncle mike was out in the waves so i just sat in the shade in the soft dirt-sand and talked to mike about cook’s pines, which we had spotted at the very north end of the island. you could see out that far from this part of the beach. we also talked about pigeons since there were a lot of them. we talked a little bit about eve and how, when pounds want to get their animals adopted, they describe the animal using the most exotic breed in the mix. wiley is a “finnish spitz mix.” (look them up they’re super cute actually.) eve is a “greyhound mix,” even though mike said she acts way more like a black lab. he said they’re always skittish like she is. 

i couldn’t really argue with that. it is more exciting to say you have a half-greyhound than a half-black lab. and eve never shuts up when mike is around. she just howls and howls and runs away and howls from the other room even a little while after he’s gone. she’s done that since she was 3. i thought she would get used to him after a year or two, but i guess once she realized he was also her vet she kept a grudge. 

wiley likes him though.

i eventually stumbled out into the waves knee-deep to laugh at the boys and their boogie boards. i probably stood out in the sun for just a little too long. i had been upset that i’d forgotten the sun hat gramma bought for me... i dunno it’s just nice to stand with your feet in the ocean even if you’re not swimming. 

i didn’t stay out for too long though. i mostly had gotten up because my legs were falling asleep sitting in the dirt, and also because i had sat down less than a foot away from an anthill and dropped my shoes on top of it. i went back in the shade and talked to sierra a little bit and played some pokemon.

i don’t remember what we did for dinner after that. it’s kind of frustrating to go to dinners with my family. gramma and sharon heavily favor restaurants we are familiar with over restaurants that are good/are easier for 25% of us to eat at. ryan has the fatal peanut oil allergy, i’m vegetarian, my sister’s got a lot of dietary restrictions and is generally picky, austin’s not allowed to touch nuts since his brother’s so allergic. gramma can’t eat red meat but we go to steak houses all the time. thomas won’t eat anything but hot dogs and sometimes pizza.

the next day was the last day on maui. my sister, claudia, uncle dave, and i broke off from the group to go to the aquarium. i didn’t realize that my family wasn’t joining everyone else for lunch so i didn’t think to say goodbye to anyone when we left the hotel. that kind of sucked. the aquarium was nice though. i sent a lot of pictures with one-liners and snarky comments to asher. i also took a ton of videos, which i forgot to show him when we hung out today.

after that (and some shopping) my sister and i had to wait in the shopping center after dave took claudia back to the hotel. we waited for like 40 minutes for our family to pick us up. we had some ice cream. the car ride over to ihop sucked. it was just the worst. my parents would yell at each other, and then demand unreasonable things from my sister (who had siri open), and then when my sister would get irritated she would get yelled at for raising her voice. my mom and dad acted like she was SO unreasonable for being frustrated with them. “i’m just such-and-such,” they would say, like “just” doing something excuses you from being a dick. “i’m just sayin.”

i hate “i’m just sayin.” it’s dad’s trump card for when he wants to “win” an argument. because if you get mad when someone is “just sayin” words, because “just” saying is so different from “actually” saying, then you are unreasonable and you lose!!!

at ihop i was too sick to eat and my sister was too sick to eat. then about halfway through the meal my brother cried out and put his hands over his eye. i was worried he had gotten hot sauce in it (i noticed the bottle next to his elbow) and suggested washing it out in the bathroom. he and dad didn’t come back for a long time. after we finished eating we dug out my sister’s eye drops and mom basically shot his eye with a jet of saline. also a guy who may or may not have been a tourist was there. he gave me conflicting stories over the span of our conversation. i wanted to focus on my brother but there wasn’t really anything i could do and the guy was very interested in talking to my family.

so then we went to the airport, and i played pokemon while waiting for the plane, which was about 40 minutes late. then we got on the plane and i watched the sun go down and listened to less than a full elo album before we landed on oahu. when we collected our bags and got the rental car my brother complained that his eye still felt like someone was jamming a needle into it and it had been seven hours.

so mom decided it was a good idea to give him one of her oxycodone pills. 

i have some feelings about this. mostly confusion, because i don’t understand why mother would have those pills in the first place. she’s always so harsh when she judges dad’s mom because she’s “addicted to pain killers” and “stole grandpa’s medication before he died” and “complains to the doctor too much so he’ll keep refilling her prescriptions.”

but you know what? 

mom stole my pain killers, my vicodin, when i had my wisdom teeth out. i had to go like five days with just tylenol when my jaw still wasn’t healed enough for me to even eat solids. when i talked to dad about it one time, years ago now i think, he seemed to imply that that was just something she does. 

i’ve met people who are addicted to oxycodone. it’s not a fun time. where the hell is mom getting such a powerful drug? who the hell is giving it to her? she has migraines. but i looked it up just now and oxy is a TERRIBLE  choice for treating migraines. and also it’s super addictive. 

and also i’m a stickler for rules i guess and i was super irritated that mom broke the rules and gave a prescribed medicine to someone who it had not been prescribed to. a powerful one! and she said this might mean she couldn’t take him to the emergency room!

at 11 after we had gotten settled into our new hotel room mom and dad took him to the emergency room anyway. i hope she got in trouble. my brother was super stoned. on the way to the hotel he was asking me stuff like what my major was and where i was going to school. he also made sammie-level bad jokes and laughed at them.

mom complained that we shouldn’t have pushed her to give him one. even though no one had told her to... even my brother was like “i don’t care just do something” at the time. 

so that night i didn’t fall asleep until 1, after my brother got back from the er. he had debris stuck in his eye and it had scratched his cornea. 

i had a dream that the monster didn’t want to kill me. it was after some equipment i had. a while into the dream i realized that not only could i teleport myself (sometimes i can do that), i could send other things away too. actually it was easier to Send Things Away than to teleport myself, which required a lot of brute-forcing my imagination into believing i had taken a huge step forward, sometimes up a wall or through one, instead of just a normal walking step.

it’s literally the best way i’ve dealt with a monster in my dreams basically ever. anyone around me it wanted to hurt, maybe as punishment? send them away. after the machine i had? send it away. “sorry dude, better luck next time.”

there was a lot more to it but it’s hard to explain in words that make sense when put in a sentence together. i wish i dreamed less in fluid images or impressions and more in solid ones.

well, even the solid images don’t always make a lot of sense... they make sense to me, in a weird way, but i can’t figure out how to make it make sense for everyone else. and drawing them is like looking into an infinite fractal. i can never put as much detail on the paper as i saw in my head and then it looks bland and strange and not what i wanted to communicate.

the next day i woke up at like 10:30, which is the latest i ever woke up during the trip. i even turned my alarm off. i felt sick all day. my family left to get lunch and i just stayed in the room because it hurt. in the evening we went to my mom’s cousin’s anniversary house gathering party. this is the cousin my mom doesn’t even like very much, due to gay. 

i didn’t have much food. i mostly talked to my mom’s other cousin and her family, and caught up with some people i didn’t know. the meal was jewish chinese hawaiian. i liked the pasta salad.

by 9 i was too exhausted to talk to anyone any more. i found myself blinking even more owlishly at the host’s collection of mugs painted with the faces of what appeared to be american presidents. there were like 40 of them. i had laughed when i saw them the first time and said “it’s good to have a hobby.” i guess as i got more tired i wanted to say more, but had less to say. so i just looked at them a lot.

i don’t know what i did with all that time. i don’t know what i spent my evening doing. my family was watching a different movie on each tv in the hotel room. we had the two-room setup again, but my brother and i had separate beds this time. it was frustrating because my feet and ankles would get caught in the blanket tucked under the bed. it was too hard to kick the blankets loose so i felt pressed down and restricted and that made it really hard to fall asleep. i have enough trouble getting my arms and legs into comfortable positions while i’m up and about during the day. i spend all night fidgeting and adjusting my weight and yanking my pajama pants around trying to get them to sit right. this happens every night. i’m uncomfortable all the time. my legs just won’t sit right and it feels like if i just kicked or flexed them i could maybe jimmy them into better positions but it never happens. so when i sit i kick my feet around all the time. and when i sit with my hands or arms against a surface i knead at it trying to get my hands! into! the Correct! position!!!

the correct position probably doesn’t exist. i’ve never gotten there before. all i can do is try to loosen up my muscles a little bit so i stop feeling so strained and uncomfortable.

the last full day i spent laying around mostly. i went and looked at the baby seal and took pictures and sent them to asher. i found anny and sarah on the beach but my legs fell asleep while i was sitting under the umbrella with them so i got up and left. i was also getting sunburnt again. i found mom at the hotel restaurant so i got lunch with her even though i didn’t want to. i got a fancy drink with dragonfruit and mango and stuff. i told mom i wasn’t hungry at all but she talked me into a sandwich that was way too big for me to reasonably eat and also like 20 dollars. i barely managed half of it. i gave the other half to dad when he showed up.

then we went to the actual anniversary party at a fancy restaurant. i was too tired to interact with anyone so i sat with my brother and sister and tried to track down a glass of water. my brother ended up with three, mostly as a joke on my part.

this is the story as i understand it. my aunts have been together for 20 years. marriage was legalized between 3 and 4 years ago, and they got officially married a few weeks after the law passed. we were here to celebrate their “anniversary,” though it may have just been the best time of year for everyone to travel. there were a lot of cute and touching speeches. i always enjoy uncle len’s terrible, terrible poetry. it’s actually better than mine at least.

hmm, well, maybe they’re about the same quality now that i’m thinking about it.

the food was very interesting. i was told the chef said he would have something “interesting” for me since i think i was the only vegetarian. i got some kind of briny rice with like a creamy green sauce. it was topped with asparagus and some little tomato cubes. and also really spongy looking mushrooms. and a cracker made out of cheese. i think it was asiago.

it was ok. i was tolerating it pretty well until i picked up a big mushroom stump and tried to eat that. the effect was immediate. i near gagged on how spongy and salty it was. it tasted like the ocean. the last time i accidentally swallowed ocean (a few days previously) i had thrown up immediately. as had my brother. we’re cool like that.

after that i wasn’t interested in eating any more. i had some of the dessert but didn’t really enjoy it that much. i think if i was feeling better i would have liked it more.

don’t tell no one, but we had assigned seats. when i got over to the table with my brother and sister i saw that i was assigned next to dad. i swapped my name card with my second cousin’s so i could sit next to my brother instead.

there were three performing sisters supplying the party with music. they were pretty good! when they came over to our table and asked for requests i said “please god anything but over the rainbow” and they laughed. they played some songs that their mother wrote. but at the end they made us all hold hands and sway together and sing aloha oe. i was bummed about that, mostly because i didn’t want to be standing, partly because i didn’t know the words, and partly because i really didn’t want to hold hands with anyone.

i had a lot of trouble falling asleep at a reasonable hour that night. i had more dreams, and i was thinking about them the next day, but i don’t remember what they were any more. the ride to the airport was stressful. i was crammed in the back with all the suitcases and every time we made a sharp turn i’d get squashed or knocked in the face by the suitcase’s wheels. i ended up getting something like chocolate chalk on my fingers trying to buckle my seat belt and i was upset about that the whole ride.

i texted with asher for a while. i don’t think he was doing so hot but he heard me out which was nice of him. i was looking at a billboard while we were stopped at a gas station and i texted “it’s kind of surprising how little matters in life when you think about it.”

i’d been thinking about that for over a week at that point. so few things actually matter. i was trying to make a list and i could only really think of one thing. being able to see the sky matters.

i also said it was really a relief to look at something and say “screw it, i don’t care about this any more, i’m going to stop putting any effort into it.” because, like, it saves so much energy to not put effort into things you don’t care about! why waste your time on crap that doesn’t matter? 

i mean, sure, if you care about something, be tenacious as hell. but if it doesn’t matter? why am i still trying? why not try at something that does matter?

what i’m getting at here is that i don’t care about being friendly with dad any more. he never apologized or mentioned it or did anything. he barely looks at me. if being embarrassed or being the authority or whatever is more important to him than i am, then screw it! i don’t care! i don’t HAVE to care.

so that’s the hawaii lesson. you don’t have to care. you can choose to care, but you don’t have to.

on the flight back i did nothing but fish for bottle caps for basically six hours. i got up to use the restroom and i did doze for about 20 minutes at the start of the flight. 

it wasn’t really just fishing for bottle caps. i never just fish. that’s boring. i was listening to music and fishing for bottle caps on the side to keep my hands busy. i was barely even paying attention. i spent a lot of time thinking about random stuff. like animorphs, or doing a mental review of one of the comics i’m reading, or wondering about recent developments in another. i also spent actually more time than i should have wondering what the guy next to me was thinking. i mean i was playing what was clearly pokemon, but all i was doing was running back and forth and fishing up pokemon that i ran away from. 

i got nine bottle caps.

we landed around 10:30. baggage claim was normal amounts of crowded and stressful. dad missed the terminal’s curb when he drove over to pick us up and had to spent 10 minutes going all the way back around the airport to try again. it was over 100 degrees even though it was the middle of the night. the car was crammed the whole hour back. we decided to stop at carl’s jr for dinner at 11:30 and i got really sick from the grease. we got home at 12. i putzed around on the internet until 1:30, and then i took a really long time getting ready for bed because i felt disgusting and i wanted to wash off more than usual, and then i couldn’t fall asleep because my brother was screaming at the computer and stuff.

in the morning i went downstairs to go to my doctor’s appointment after sleeping for 5 and a half to 6 hours. after waiting for 10 minutes for dad to get ready to leave, i finally asked when we were heading out because i had no idea where this office was or how to get there. he leaned in real close to me and growled “i NEVER said i would take you ANYWHERE.”

the end!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[ber-bonfamille-lyons]

How To Save A Life || Bonfamille’s Anatomy

Summary: Intern Beredith Berlioz Bonfamille is in for a night of #drama and #death when #disaster strikes Swynlake.

this is not good. 

[BERLIOZ V.O.]

“You know, people ask surgeons all the time—why’d they do it? Why’d they become surgeons? Why spend so much money, give away six to eight years of your life, abandon friends and family and your social life for the opportunity to cut someone open? How is it possibly worth it?

It’s not. Not for me. I come from a long line of surgeons. My dad owns one of the biggest hospitals in France with a research center that churns out new medications, new findings, and new doctors. My brother is a gifted cardiothoracic demi-god who knows how to make hearts beat again.

But I’m just an intern. And my scrubs are too short. Do you know how embarrassing that is, walking the hospital hallways with my scrubs looking like they’re hiked too high? Me, the brother of the Heart God, walking around in scrubs that don’t fit. Someone just kill me now.

‘Course, bad luck to say that in a hospital, eh? Death never turns down an invitation.” 

-

The fire hit Swynlake the eve of Halloween, erupting from one of the newly refurbished dorm halls in Pride University. From there, it spread like an unnatural beast, leaping from building to building. It spread into the trees. It darted down the main street. The firefighters tried to control it but it was all over the place. It was alive. Like it had a mind of its own.

The 2017 class of interns were gathered together by their resident who was already tying up her thin plastic yellow cover over her scrubs. “Alright listen, because they’re gonna come in waves and they’re not gonna stop,” spat Andrina Triton, fourth year resident. “Keep your head above water. Merida, you’re in pit with Berlioz. Mowgli—where the fuck is Mowgli?” she said, twisting all around. Her voice raised and snapped like a whip, “MOWGLI!”

“Here!” squeaked the boy, sliding in and bringing the thick smell of smoke with him. Ber’s eyes widened at his frazzled hair, a few burns on his hand and soot on his face. He pulled off his civilian shirt and bounded toward his locker.

“Hey, what the hell are you—why weren’t you here?” Triton growled, then sucked her teeth. “You know what, nevermind, I literally do not have the time for this. Seeoonee, you take the camera, start snapping pictures and get a board together for the family members when they get here. I need all hands on desk, people!”

“She sure loves her ocean metaphors,” grumbled Merida as they followed Andrina out into the emergency room. “I jus’ hope I get a surgery outta this.”

“People are gonna be in so much pain, how could you say--” hissed Ber back at her.

“Hey! Bonfamille. Clam up!” yelled Triton. Of course.

But Berlioz did not have time to complain. Because wham!—the door was kicked open and in rushed a firefighter, cradling a girl in his arms.

“I need help, I need help over here!” Paul Patts shouted. He bolted toward the bed, lying the girl down. Merida rushed forward at once.

“She’s got burns covering over forty percent of her body. What’d you give her in the field?” Merida jabbered off.

But Berlioz could only stare. Through the gap between Paul and Merida’s body, he can still the trembling, shocked face of Kiara Lyons, the cousin of Simba Lyons—chief neurosurgeon.  She was a fresher at the dorms, she was—supposed to be at a party tonight. That was all, a party. How could this have happened?

He had to tell Simba.

He had to tell Simba before he saw it himself.

“BONFAMILLE, what are you doing! Didn’t you hear Nurse Dearly, she needs help intubating that patient!” Triton snapped. Ber swallowed and looked toward the nurse who was shouting for help. He gave one last look at Kiara and then darted toward Dearly and the man she was trying to hold still. He was so badly burned Ber couldn’t make out who it was. But it wasn’t just burns. He could tell by the way the man’s leg was positioned.

“What—”

“—happened? He ran into a burning building to help the kids escape,” sighed Nurse Dearly. “And then he jumped out of it when the stairs collapsed. He had no other choice.”

Ber swallowed rough. “Is … he…”

“We’re going to everything we can, Berlioz,” Nurse Dearly said softly, smiling a little at him. She usually worked in the pediatric ward. Ber would not mind working in pedes if he were honest, but he knew that his family would never allow it. It would be a blight to the Bonfamille name.

“I was paged about head trauma,” came the voice of Dr. Acheron, scrub cap firmly in place.

“Oh yes, Dr. Acheron thank goodness—this young man jumped out of a third-story building. We’re looking at several crushed vertebrae as well as fractures to the tibula and fibula—”

“Oi, I was paged about tibulas and fibulas, alright,” said Dr. Calame, popping up from behind Acheron with a concentrated look on her face, grabbing the chart from Acheron. Ber instantly stepped back, trying to blend into the curtain they’d pulled around this broken man. “Is this our John Doe? God, he’s already a mess.”

“I need to get in there right away, Calame,” gritted Acheron.  “This man’s probably paralyzed for life, nothing you can do about his legs. I, on the other hand, could stop what is probably a brain bleed—”

“What if I could save the use of his legs eh, what then? Don’t you think a man like this, six foot five, runs into burning buildings, wants the use of his legs?”

“We’re taking him for a trauma panel. Bonfamille, order a CT right away. Ignore everything Calame says,” instructed Acheron as though Dr. Calame had not talked at all. Ber swallowed, nodding quickly.

“Y-yes, Dr. Acheron. Uh—Dr—Acheron—” he stepped forward, then quickly stopped again, like his feet were stuck in glue. The neurosurgeon turned around, cocking a brow.

“Yes, Bonfamille?”

“It—is—Dr. Lyons in surgery?”

“Why don’t you ask his wife?” Dr. Acheron said and then sauntered away.

Dr. Calame scoffed. “Don’t worry about him, he’s nothin’ but hot air. Do you need my husband for something?”

“N-no, I—” He swallowed, seeing a flash of Kiara’s charred, burned body before his eyes. He knew that Nala Calame would want to know too. He opened his mouth—

Beep beep beep.

“Shit, gotta run. Hey, let me know about those CT results too! Acheron’s not the only one with work to do!” She called back over her shoulder as she disappeared around the corner.

-

Ber took his John Doe up to CT as instructed, making awkward small talk with the technician, Milo Thatch. As he waited for the scans to get pulled up, he pushed out the small room, feeling claustrophobic. He wanted to pace, to fidget, until he couldn’t stand it anymore. It might be all hands on desk, the hospital a mad house as more victims from the fire pour in, but someone has to tell Simba about Kiara. Someone.

Even if it was Berlioz.

Last time he and Simba had spoken about something not surgery-related was over a week ago, in the on-call room, huddled in bed together. They’d started sleeping together days before Berlioz’s internship, though in his defense—he’d not known he was sleeping with Simba Lyons, chief of neurosurgery. Back then, he’d just been a guy in a bar.

Who knew that that guy in the bar, the one with terrible jokes and a too-loud laugh and enough confidence to fill this hospital twice over with cocky surgeons, would be Berlioz’s boss? His married boss? Married to his other boss?

A week ago, Berlioz had asked him if he was gonna ever leave Nala.

A week ago, Simba had hesitated.

A week ago, they’d got into their first fight. It had flared up fast and got out of control, and by the end of it, Ber was pretty sure his not-relationship was burned to the ground and his “career” in “surgery” was over.

But now, a week later, Kiara Lyons was in a bed downstairs and as far as Berlioz knew, Simba didn’t know.

Beep beep beep. It didn’t take very long for Simba to saunter down to CT. He walked with a confident, fast gait like always, though on any other day, he’d be smiling. Not that he’d ever smile at Berlioz ever again.

“Yes?” he said as he arrived, tugging tighter on the ties of his scrub cap.

“I—need an opinion on this CT,” Berlioz lied. Simba’s eyes flick over Ber’s shoulder to the room and then he brushes past Ber into it. Ber closed his eyes. It felt like a punch to the stomach.

“He’s got—a subdural hematoma right here. C’mon, get a look,” instructed Simba. Ber swallowed and dragged his feet—one after the other. Simba pointed out the hemotoma again, though ‘course Ber saw it himself. That wasn’t what he needed to say.

“Prognosis?” murmured Simba, glancing at Ber. Ber stared at the scan. He could not look at Simba. Not right now.

“We ah, we watch it. Patient’s sustained a lot of trauma and severe burns, surgery might kill him,” he uttered.

“Uh-huh,” uttered Simba. “Good.” He straightened, a hand on the table, body turned toward Berlioz. He didn’t move. Ber couldn’t move either. He swallowed again, biting down on his lip—he didn’t know. Obviously, he didn’t know, or he wouldn’t be here.

Ber jerked his head away from the scan and met Simba’s eyes. For the first time in a long, long time, they were soft. Ber wanted nothing more than to say nothing at all.

But he couldn’t, so, “Kiara was at the party where the fire erupted,” he said quickly. “She’s down in the pit. I thought you should know—”

The light drained from Simba’s eyes at once. All that softness went hard and Simba shoved his way past Ber.

“I can’t BELIEVE you didn’t say that FIRST THING—” snarled Simba.

Ber moved without thinking, rushing after him—stopping half-way in the hall as he realized he bloody couldn’t leave a bloody patient unintended—

He looked around and spotted Nurse Takayama. “Oi, can you—I need you to bring my patient to the ICU, page Dr. Acheron and Dr. Calame—thanks! Sorry! Uh—gotta go!”

“Er—you’re welcome?” called the Nurse in confusion but Ber was already racing down the hall.

He barely slid into the elevator after Simba in time, the doors shutting with no sound at all, which somehow made it more ominous. Simba glared at him, his hands going to his hips. “What the fuck are you doing in here, Berlioz, you were with a patient—”

“I, I know, I—”

“You paged me as I was closing a patient, you realize that, yeah? As I was closing a patient. What the fuck—”

“I know—”

“This is why we—” Simba motioned between them, “—would never work. You’re irresponsible, you’re selfish—you have no sense of judgment, no common sense at all—”

“I know—”

“Stop saying you know!” snarled Simba. “You don’t know or you wouldn’t have done it, you wouldn’t have followed me in here—why the hell do you think that would ever be okay—”

“Because I love you!” blurted Berlioz before it was too late to say it, and too late to take it back.

Simba’s face twisted. The elevator shuddered as it went down, down, down…

Berlioz took a shaky breath in himself. “I know…that now is not the time to say it. I know that we’re never going to work. I know it’s over. But Simba, I couldn’t—I wanted you to know about Kiara. The chief wouldn’t have told you. Not until after all the surgeries—“

“So I could stay focused. That’s why the Chief would…” started Simba, but he sounded confused, trailing off half-way through his sentence.

“I know,” said Ber. “I’m sorry I keep—saying that, but—I just don’t think... that’s right. I’m sorry. I messed up, I’m not m-my brother o-or my dad, or--  I’m not a good surgeon. But I love you, and I’ll do anything I can to make sure Kiara is okay. I-if you can’t be there, then I’ll—I’ll be there.”

Simba stared. Then he took a step forward. Berlioz’s heart dropped again and he opened his mouth--

Ding.

Both Simba and Ber jerk their heads to the side to see Chief Ficente standing in her scrubs, arms folded. She tilted her head and a tiny smile twitched onto her lips.

“Dr. Lyons, Dr. Bonfamille,” she greeted. “Going down to help the barrage of victims of this horribly awful, unpredictable fire, are we?”

Ber and Simba nodded in union, both ducking their head and stepping out of the elevator quickly.

“Good,” said Chief Ficente. “Let’s save lives tonight, gentlemen.” And as the doors closed on her again, Berlioz and Simba’s pagers both went off, a chorus of beeps, one after the other, almost like they were in song.

Course that wasn’t it at all—nothing about he and Simba was a song. Not anymore.

Ber checked his pager and saw it was Nurse Takayama. Simba checked his too. “Shit, I got surgery—”

“I’ll check on Kiara as soon as I can,” said Ber. He began to back up. “I promise. I’ll make sure she doesn’t—I promise!” Then his shoes squeaked on the tile as he turned and bolted down the hall again, back to his John Doe.

-

 “We’re doing surgery?” uttered Ber, blinking rapidly at Hades. “But—it’s small, it—it could go awa—” He stopped mid-sentence, feeling Dr. Acheron’s eyes bore into him. He wanted to shrink back into the wall again.

“I’m not a wait and see kind of bloke—not my speed. If this goes south, it will go south fast. By the time I open him up, he’ll be braindead.”

But what if he dies because of the surgery? Ber wanted to say. He swallowed the words back though and just nodded.

Dr. Acheron pushed off from the wall. “Well? Don’t just stand there like a moron—are you going to scrub in or not?”

And Berlioz, honestly—he knows for the first time today the exact right thing to say.

“Actually, Dr. Acheron, I think I’ll be more useful in the pit. There are a lot of injuries. If you—if you don’t need me, th-that is.”

Dr. Acheron made a face that—actually—looked…impressed? “Fair enough, Bonfamille. I don’t need you. I’ll page you for post-op.”

“Thank you Dr. Acheron,” said Berlioz. His feet were already in motion, taking him back down the hall, back toward the elevator—back where his promise waited for him.

  At 01:42, John Doe was pronounced dead. It was Merida who told ‘em, frolicking in where he sat in a room with Kiara, checking her vitals, keeping post—just as he said he would. Merida wore a big grin on your face. “Looks like your guy kicked it, eh? Didn’t even scrub in too.” She tsked and shook her head.

Ber just stared at her. “You’re…awful, you…realize that yeah?”

Merida shrugged. “Least I’m not the family disappointment.” She gave a hearty chuckle, then turned to go. “See you later, Berlioz!”

2:29. A soft chuckle jerked Ber awake and he blinked blearily toward Simba, who leaned again the frame of  Kiara’s room. Ber’s feet fell back down on the ground, from having tried to curl ‘em up in the chair all awkward. His knees cracked and he swallowed and rubbed at his face.

“I love those stupid short scrubs on you,” commented Simba, wandering in and around the bed. “Unfair, really.”

“If by unfair, y’mean I should get some scrubs in my size,” mumbled Berlioz. And Simba laughed again, soft. Not quite a Simba laugh. But almost.

“You really did it,” he said, after. For a second Ber has no idea what he meant. Did what? Let his patient die? Let Acheron walk all over him? Shirk surgeries and probably get a lecture about it from Lou tomorrow—again?

But no, Simba meant what Ber was doing right now: sitting with Kiara.

“Yeah, I—yeah,” he said. “She’s uh, she’s doin’ good. She’ll be okay, I mean—it’ll be a long road, and—and plastics, probably but—” Ber moved his hand and awkwardly pat at the side of Kiara’s bed, as if to say Atta girl!

God, he hated himself.

But then Simba’s hand fell on top of his and Ber froze in place.

“Thank you,” said Simba.

And he curled his fingers over Berlioz’s and kept them there. And neither of them moved or said anything else. They just listened to the calm and steady sound of the heart monitor as though it were singing: alive, alive, alive.