#i would like to petition for more scenes in the kitchen

[guardian-angle22]

Tarlos Wedding Celebration Event [Week 12] -> favorite location(s)-> The Tarloft

[satansdarlin]

can i PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE have a fic where gambit and reader have a baby/kid, i don't care about anything else i just want a kid with that man PLEASE (I am on my hands and kness begging you)

Pa's Lil spade

I know this is a bit more than you asked for but I went nuts with it. You are so fr for wanting a baby with this man (me too nonny me too). The reader is a mutant but I left that up to whatever you guys want. It is implied to be AFAB reader with how they refer to them but nothing is explicitly depicted. Could be read as a follow up to royal flush or a stand alone

Rating: T

Word count: 4.9k

Warnings: bad French, some anti mutant bull, remy being the best dad to cure my daddy issues, pure family fluff with a little angst, talk of explosions

If you liked this check of my masterlist or put in a request if they are open

You padded through the quiet house in the early morning. Remy had been missing from the bed when you woke up, but you had a feeling you knew exactly where to find him. Pushing open the door to the nursery, you paused in the doorway, taking in the tender scene before you. Morning light filtered softly through the curtains, casting a gentle glow over Remy as he cradled your one-month-old daughter in his arms, her tiny form still peacefully asleep.

"Mon Dieu," he whispered as he heard you enter, his voice thick with emotion. "Remy never expected 'er to be so... petit."

"She is small," you agreed softly, moving closer to them. "A tiny little miracle."

Remy turned to face you, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "She's perfect, ain't she?" he said, gazing down at the small, sleeping bundle in his arms.

"Absolutely perfect," you agreed, watching your husband hold your daughter with such reverence that your heart swelled. You knew he'd probably stand there holding her for hours if he could, perfectly content.

He chuckled softly, his attention never wavering from the baby. With infinite gentleness, he stroked her velvet-soft cheek with one finger. "She goin' be a troublemaker, Remy can tell already," he said with a knowing smirk.

"Wonder where she'll get that from," you laughed softly, reaching up to kiss his cheek.

He feigned shock, placing his free hand over his heart with dramatic flair. "Remy, trouble? Never," he protested, shaking his head with exaggerated innocence before pulling you closer with his free arm, that familiar mischievous grin spreading across his face.

"You're a poor liar, mon cœur," you hummed, gazing down at your daughter. Your little Spade. You'd had to talk him down from naming her Queenie – Remy's taste in baby names had been a bit more... eccentric.

"Can't believe you made Remy change the name," he pouted, though his eyes never left their daughter's face as he traced her features with a gentle finger. "Queenie woulda been a good name," he added teasingly.

"Spade is perfect," you said, playfully rolling your eyes.

He let out an exaggerated sigh of defeat, though he couldn't quite hide his smile. "You're right, cher. Spade is perfect," he admitted, gently rocking the bundle in his arms.

"I'll go make breakfast," you said softly, reluctantly pulling away from their warmth. In the kitchen, you found yourself wrestling with the baby-proofed cabinets. You'd tried telling Remy there was no way Spade would be getting into cabinets when she could barely roll over, but he'd insisted on "better safe than sorry."

From the living room, Remy's teasing voice called out, "Careful, darlin', you might get trapped in there!"

"And whose fault would that be?" you called back. The sound of your voices stirred Spade, who responded with happy coos directed up at her father.

Remy's expression melted at the sound. "Not Remy's fault if you're too weak to open a cabinet, cher," he teased, though his voice was warm with affection.

"I'm gonna baby-proof your bedside table," you threatened playfully as you finally conquered the cabinet. In response, Spade began wiggling energetically in her father's arms.

Remy clutched dramatically at his chest with his free hand. "Not the bedside table, cher, that's low!"

As you started on breakfast, Remy found himself locked in battle with an infant determined to make a meal of his shirt. He tried redirecting her attention to a soft, chewable toy, but Spade remained fixated on her chosen target.

"Why does she only want to eat Remy's shirt and not the damn toy?" he grumbled in French, looking up at you with clear frustration.

"She's gotta soften her pa up to eat him when she's big enough," you quipped back.

Remy rolled his eyes but couldn't help chuckling. "Remy is not on the menu," he protested, still struggling to keep his shirt out of Spade's surprisingly strong grip.

"She doesn't seem to agree," you laughed, watching your husband's losing battle with your determined daughter.

"How can one little baby be so strong?" he complained, shooting you a desperate look.

Taking pity on him, you crossed the room and, with perfect timing, swapped his shirt for her pacifier just as she was about to chomp down. "Baby strength is no joke, hubs."

Remy sagged with relief as Spade happily accepted the pacifier, her mission to devour his shirt temporarily forgotten. "Thanks, cher," he said, flashing you a grateful smile. "Remy was about to lose his shirt there."

"And if Remy doesn't do something about the mosquito catcher on the fritz, he'll have to do more than worry about one baby-slobbered shirt – he'll have to do all his laundry," you warned playfully before returning to the stove.

Panic flashed across his face at the prospect. "Damn, okay, okay, Remy'll fix it," he quickly agreed, bouncing Spade gently in his arms. The laundry threat never failed.

"Good. 'Cause I can't even step outside without being eaten alive," you grumbled. "I told you the kiddy pool was a bad idea."

Remy chuckled sheepishly. "Remy didn't know the mosquitoes would love it so much," he admitted, guilt coloring his voice as he patted Spade's back, deliberately avoiding your pointed look.

The sizzle of bacon filled the kitchen as you worked at the stove. Remy wandered in, still cradling Spade, who had finally given up her campaign against his shirt in favor of contentedly gumming her pacifier.

"Smells good, cher," he said, peering over your shoulder. "Need Remy to set the table?" He shifted Spade to one arm, already reaching for plates with his free hand.

"If you can manage without putting our daughter down for two seconds," you teased, glancing back at him with a knowing smile.

Remy huffed indignantly. "Remy is perfectly capable of multitasking," he declared, though his grip on Spade remained secure as ever. As if to prove his point, he began one-handedly arranging plates and silverware on the table, adding a little flourish as he set down each item.

"Show-off," you muttered fondly, hiding your smile as you flipped the bacon.

"You love it," he shot back with a wink, his red-on-black eyes gleaming with mischief. Spade chose that moment to spit out her pacifier, which Remy caught with lightning-quick reflexes before it hit the floor. "Ha! See? Master of multitasking!"

"My hero," you deadpanned, but couldn't help laughing at his triumphant expression.

The morning sunlight had grown stronger now, streaming through the kitchen windows and catching the auburn highlights in Remy's hair. Spade reached up, trying to grab at the light playing across her father's face, making happy gurgling sounds.

"What you reaching for, petit?" Remy cooed, bouncing her gently. "You trying to catch the sun? Just like your papa, always reaching for things you shouldn't."

"Speaking of things we shouldn't reach for," you said, sliding the last of the bacon onto a plate, "I saw you trying to teach her how to shuffle cards yesterday."

Remy had the grace to look slightly embarrassed. "Was just showing her the basics, cher. Never too early to learn."

"She's a month old, Remy."

"And already showing great potential!" he insisted, grinning as Spade grabbed his finger and tried to stuff it in her mouth. "See? She's got quick hands!"

You shook your head, carrying plates to the table. "No daughter of mine is going to be running card scams before she can walk."

"Of course not," Remy agreed too quickly. "Maybe after she walks though..."

"Remy LeBeau!"

He laughed, dancing away from your mock-threatening spatula. "Remy's kidding! Mostly," he added under his breath, pressing a kiss to Spade's forehead as she yawned widely.

"I heard that," you warned, but couldn't keep the smile from your voice. "Now sit down before breakfast gets cold. And yes, you have to put her in her bouncer."

Remy pouted but carefully settled Spade into her bouncer next to the table, making sure she could still see both of you. "There you go, petit. Watch your old papa eat his breakfast before your maman makes him fix that mosquito trap."

"And the gutters," you added sweetly, passing him the coffee.

He nearly choked on his first sip. "The gutters? Remy didn't hear nothing about gutters!"

"Must have slipped my mind," you said innocently. "But while you're up there..."

"This is blackmail," he grumbled, but his eyes were twinkling as he watched you over the rim of his coffee cup.

"I prefer to think of it as creative motivation," you replied, reaching over to wipe a bit of drool from Spade's chin as she watched you both with wide eyes.

"You're lucky Remy loves you both so much," he said, his mock complaint softened by the genuine warmth in his voice.

"We know," you smiled, reaching across to squeeze his hand. "And we love you too, even if you do install unnecessary baby-proofing and create mosquito breeding grounds in the backyard."

"Remy's never going to live down that kiddie pool, is he?"

"Not a chance, mon cœur. Not a chance."

--- Two Years Later ---

"Spade Charlotte LeBeau, you get back here right now!"

Your toddler's delighted giggle echoed through the house as she zoomed around the corner, still in her pajamas, clutching one of Remy's playing cards in her tiny fist. Her dark hair bounced in messy curls around her face, and her red-on-black eyes – so like her father's – sparkled with mischief.

"Non!" she called back in a perfect imitation of Remy's accent, disappearing into the living room.

You shot your husband an accusatory look as he leaned against the doorframe, trying and failing to hide his proud grin. "This is your fault. She's picking up your accent AND your sticky fingers."

"Remy has no idea what you mean, cher," he said innocently, but the effect was ruined by his barely contained laughter. "Though you got to admit, her form is getting better."

"She's two, Remy. She shouldn't have any 'form' for stealing."

"Borrowing," he corrected automatically. "And did you see how smooth that lift was? Didn't even feel her take it from Remy's pocket."

A crash from the living room interrupted your response, followed by a small "Uh oh."

Both of you rushed in to find Spade standing amid a scatter of books from the fallen bookshelf, still clutching the Queen of Hearts. She looked up at you with wide eyes, lower lip trembling slightly.

"Accident?" she offered hopefully, in that same Cajun lilt that made it impossible to stay mad at her – a fact she had definitely figured out and used to her advantage.

Remy scooped her up before you could respond. "What's the rule about climbing, petit?"

"Only climb with Papa?" she tried, wrapping her arms around his neck and batting her eyelashes.

"The real rule," you prompted, trying to keep a stern face despite how adorable she looked.

Spade sighed dramatically – another trait she'd picked up from Remy. "No climbing furniture 'cause it's dangerous an' Maman will make Papa sleep on the couch."

"That's right," you nodded, then paused. "Wait, who taught you that last part?"

"Papa did!" she announced proudly, while Remy suddenly became very interested in straightening her pajama top.

You shook your head, bending to pick up the scattered books. "And what do we say when we make a mess, baby?"

"Sorry, Maman," she said, looking genuinely contrite now. Then she held out the playing card. "An' sorry I took Papa's card."

"Good girl," you smiled, kissing her forehead. "Now, how about breakfast?"

"Beignets!" Spade cheered, bouncing in Remy's arms.

"Non, petit," Remy chuckled. "Remember what happened last time? You got powdered sugar everywhere."

"But Papa," she whined, giving him the puppy-dog eyes that usually worked like a charm. "You said I was getting better at being sneaky quiet! I can be sneaky quiet with beignets!"

You raised an eyebrow at Remy. "Oh? Teaching our toddler to be 'sneaky quiet' now, are we?"

He had the decency to look sheepish. "Just... general life skills?"

"Down!" Spade demanded suddenly, squirming in his arms. The moment her feet touched the ground, she was off again, this time making a beeline for the kitchen.

"She's not..." Remy started.

"Going for the lower cabinet where you hide the beignet mix?" you finished. "The one you think I don't know about?"

A clatter from the kitchen confirmed your suspicions, followed by Spade's triumphant "Found it!"

"Now that," Remy said admiringly, "she definitely got from you, cher. Remy's not nearly that good at finding hiding spots."

"Keep telling yourself that, hun," you laughed, heading to the kitchen where your daughter was already trying to climb onto the counter. "Though we might need to work on her subtlety."

"Subtlety comes later," Remy assured you, catching Spade mid-climb. "Right after we teach her proper card handling and basic lock picking."

"Remy!"

"Kidding!" he protested, then whispered loudly to Spade, "We'll talk about it when you're three."

Spade giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Promise, Papa?"

"Promise, petit. Now, how about we make Maman some proper breakfast to make up for the bookshelf incident?"

"Can we make it explode?" Spade asked hopefully.

"NO!" you both shouted, remembering all too well the "glowing" pancake incident from last month.

"Just a little boom?" she bargained, making her eyes go wide and innocent.

--- Ten Years Later ---

The first sign something was wrong came at breakfast. Spade sat hunched over her untouched cereal, her normally bright red-on-black eyes dulled with discomfort. At twelve, she was all gangly limbs and attitude, her dark curls pulled back in a messy ponytail.

"You feeling okay, petit?" Remy asked, concern evident in his voice as he watched her push the cereal around her bowl.

"M'fine," she mumbled, then winced and pressed a hand to her stomach. "Just... crampy."

You and Remy exchanged a knowing look. You'd been expecting this, had prepared for it, but somehow it still felt surreal that your baby was growing up so fast.

"Why don't you go lay down, sweet?" you suggested gently. "I'll bring you some pain medicine and a heating pad."

Spade nodded miserably and stood up – then froze, her face flushing red. "Maman," she whispered, panic in her voice. "I need... I think I..."

"Go on to the bathroom, baby. I'll be right there," you assured her, already heading for the cabinet where you'd stashed supplies months ago.

Remy looked slightly panicked himself. "Should Remy... do something?"

"You can start by not freaking out," you told him with a small smile. "Remember what we talked about?"

He nodded, taking a deep breath. "Oui. Normal, natural, nothing to be embarrassed about."

"Good man. Now go call the school and let them know she's staying home today."

As you headed to the bathroom with supplies, you heard Spade sniffling. "Maman? This really sucks."

"I know, baby," you said softly, letting yourself in. "But we've got this, okay? Let me show you..."

Twenty minutes later, Spade was curled up on the couch in fresh clothes, a heating pad pressed to her stomach, while Remy hovered nearby like an anxious mother hen.

"Papa, you're being weird," she grumbled, though there was affection in her voice.

"Remy's not being weird," he protested. "Remy's being... supportive."

"You've asked if I'm okay twelve times in ten minutes."

"Because Remy loves you, petit," he said, dropping a kiss on her forehead. "Even if you're growing up too fast."

She rolled her eyes but smiled – then suddenly yelped as the TV remote in her hand began to glow with a familiar magenta energy.

"Papa?" she asked, voice shaking as the glow intensified.

Remy moved fast, snatching the remote and absorbing the charge before it could explode. "Well," he said, trying to keep his voice light, "looks like you're getting more than one kind of change today, petit."

"Is... is that what your power feels like?" Spade asked, staring at her hands in wonder and fear. "Like everything's buzzing under your skin?"

"That's right," Remy nodded, sitting beside her. "Been wondering if you'd inherit that particular family trait."

You joined them on the couch, wrapping an arm around Spade's shoulders. "How are you feeling, baby? And don't say fine."

"Scared," she admitted quietly. "And excited. And my stomach still hurts. And..." She gestured helplessly at a decorative pillow, which had started to glow. Remy quickly grabbed that too.

"Hormones probably triggered it," you mused. "Logan mentioned that happens sometimes with mutant teenagers."

"Great," Spade groaned. "So not only do I have to deal with... this stuff, but now I might blow things up when I get cranky?"

"Just like your papa," you teased, trying to lighten the mood.

"Hey!" Remy protested. "Remy has excellent control... most of the time."

Spade giggled, then winced and curled tighter around the heating pad. "Can we just... watch movies today? And maybe Papa can teach me how to not explode things?"

"'Course, petit," Remy said softly. "Though maybe we start with something less explosive than the remote, non? Playing cards are made to handle a charge better."

"Is that why you always have them?" she asked, perking up slightly despite her discomfort.

"Partly," he admitted. "Also 'cause they look cool when Remy throws them."

"Can I learn that too?"

"Let's master 'not blowing up the furniture' first," you suggested firmly.

"Maman's right," Remy agreed. "Besides, you need to rest today. Movie first, mutation training later."

Spade nodded, then suddenly looked mortified. "Oh god, do I have to tell people at school about... either thing?"

"Only if you want to, baby," you assured her. "Though we should probably let Uncle Logan know about your powers manifesting. He'll want to start training you."

"Can we not call him Uncle Logan anymore?" Spade groaned. "I'm not a little kid."

"You'll always be Remy's petit," he said, ruffling her hair and expertly dodging her swat.

"Papa!" she protested, but she was smiling. Then she looked down at her hands again, watching the faint energy dance across her fingertips. "Will... will it always feel like this?"

"Non," Remy assured her. "You'll learn to control it. Channel it. Make it part of you instead of fighting it. And your maman and papa will be here every step of the way."

"Promise?"

"Promise, petit. Now, what movie you want to watch while Remy teaches you the basics of energy manipulation?"

"Something with explosions?" she asked hopefully.

You and Remy shared a look over her head – equal parts exasperation and love.

--- Five Years Later ---

You knew something was off when Spade started wearing long sleeves in summer. At seventeen, she'd grown into her powers beautifully, the same casual grace with kinetic energy that Remy possessed. But lately, she'd been jumpy, secretive – and definitely not charging anything she touched, which was unusual for a girl who typically left a trail of glowing objects in her wake.

The truth came out on a humid Tuesday evening, when Remy came home early from a mission.

"Petit?" he called out, heading upstairs. "Remy brought those macarons you like from that place in–"

He stopped dead in Spade's doorway. Your daughter was hastily pulling on a hoodie, but not before both of you caught sight of the suppression collar around her neck. The kind sold in sketchy places to mutants who wanted to "pass" as human.

The box of macarons hit the floor.

"Papa!" Spade yelped, yanking the hood up. "You're supposed to be in Paris until tomorrow!"

"And you're supposed to be at study group," you said from behind Remy, making her jump. "Want to explain the collar, baby?"

Spade's eyes darted between you both, then to her window, clearly calculating if she could make the jump. A habit she'd definitely picked up from Remy.

"Don't even think about it," you warned. "Sit."

She sat on her bed, pulling her knees up to her chest. "It's not what you think."

"Non?" Remy's voice was dangerously quiet. "Because what Remy thinks is his daughter is ashamed of being a mutant."

"I'm not!" Spade protested, eyes filling with tears. "I just... I wanted..."

"To be normal?" you asked softly, sitting beside her while Remy paced the room, playing cards flickering with agitated energy between his fingers.

"To go on a date without setting anything on fire!" she burst out. "To hold hands without worrying about blowing someone up! To be able to... to kiss someone without..."

The cards in Remy's hands stopped moving. "Kiss someone?"

Spade went pale. "I mean... hypothetically..."

"Spade Charlotte LeBeau," you said firmly. "The whole truth. Now."

She took a shuddering breath. "His name is Alex. He's in my AP Chemistry class. We've been dating for three months and he doesn't know I'm a mutant and I really, really like him and please don't explode anything, Papa!"

The last part came out in a rush as the cards in Remy's hands began to glow ominously.

"Three months?" Remy's accent got thicker with emotion. "You've been hiding this for three months?"

"Remy," you warned, seeing the hurt in your daughter's eyes. "Let her explain."

"I wanted to tell you," Spade whispered, fingers twisting in her sleeves. "But I was scared. Not of you!" she added quickly. "Of... of messing it up. His parents are kind of... they don't like mutants. And Alex isn't like that, he's different, but I just wanted a chance to show him who I am before he found out what I am."

"You are not a what, petit," Remy said fiercely, the glow fading from his cards as he knelt in front of her. "You are a who. A beautiful, powerful, amazing who. And anyone who can't see that..."

"Isn't worth hiding yourself for," you finished gently.

"But what if he is?" Spade's voice cracked. "Worth it, I mean. He's smart and funny and he doesn't make stupid jokes about the school being full of freaks like the other kids do. He stood up for Jamie last week when someone was bullying him about his scales. He doesn't even know I go there, but he stood up anyway."

You and Remy exchanged a look. You remembered being young, remembered how hard it was to bridge the gap between mutant and human worlds.

"Take off the collar, petit," Remy said finally.

"Papa..."

"Take it off," he repeated, gentler this time. "If this boy is worth your time, he's worth your trust. And if he breaks that trust..." The cards flickered again.

"You will not threaten a teenager," you told him firmly, then turned to Spade. "But your father's right about the collar, baby. It's dangerous, and it's not healthy – physically or emotionally."

Spade's hands shook as she unclasped the collar, her natural energy immediately sparking at her fingertips. "I don't know how to tell him."

"Start with the truth," you suggested. "And maybe somewhere without too many breakable objects."

"And if he runs?" she asked in a small voice.

Remy sat beside her, pulling her into a hug. "Then he's not the one, petit. But you don't know until you try. Just... next time? Tell Remy before you start dating the normie boy? So Remy can do a proper background check?"

"Papa!"

"What? It's what any responsible father would do!"

"You are not running a background check on my boyfriend!"

"Too late," you muttered, making them both turn to stare at you. "What? You think your father's the only one who knows how to do research? He's got a B+ average, one speeding ticket, volunteers at the animal shelter, and his Instagram is full of science puns and pictures of his little sister's soccer games."

Spade groaned and flopped back on her bed. "I hate this family."

"Non, you don't," Remy grinned, ruffling her hair. "Now, about those macarons Remy dropped..."

"Are they stress-eating macarons?" Spade asked hopefully.

"They are now," you agreed. "And while we eat, you can tell us more about this boy. Like why you didn't mention that he's in your AP Chem study group – the one you're supposedly at right now?"

Spade's eyes widened. "How did you..."

"Parent knowledge," you and Remy said in unison.

---Three months later---

The Greene family's dining room was impeccably decorated, all crystal glasses and polished silver that made you grateful for all those etiquette lessons Storm had insisted on. Spade sat beside Alex, wearing her favorite dark purple dress, her power carefully controlled despite her obvious nerves. Remy, for once, had traded his usual trench coat for a proper blazer, though you'd caught him shuffling cards in his pocket on the drive over.

"So," Mrs. Greene said, cutting her chicken with precise movements, "you teach at that... special school?"

"Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters," you confirmed, noting how she avoided saying the name. "Yes, we both do."

"And that's where Spade attends?" Mr. Greene's tone was carefully neutral, but his grip on his fork was too tight.

Alex shifted uncomfortably. He'd been wonderful when Spade had told him about her powers, had even thought they were cool, but this dinner had been his idea – wanting to do things "properly." Now, watching his parents' barely concealed disdain, you could see him regretting it.

"Best education a parent could ask for," Remy said smoothly, his accent deliberately softened. "Top test scores in the state."

"I'm sure," Mrs. Greene murmured, then added with false brightness, "Though it must be... challenging, dealing with all those special needs children."

Spade's glass began to glow faintly. Without missing a beat, Remy reached over and touched it, absorbing the charge.

"Actually," you said pleasantly, "our students are quite gifted. Spade's in line for early admission to NYU's biochemistry program."

"Really?" Mr. Greene looked surprised, as if he couldn't quite reconcile this with his preconceptions. "That's... impressive."

"Our Spade's always been remarkable," Remy said proudly, then added with deliberate casualness, "Gets it from both sides of the family."

The temperature in the room seemed to drop several degrees as understanding dawned on the Greenes' faces.

"Both sides?" Mrs. Greene's voice had gone up an octave. "You mean you're all...?"

"Mutants?" Spade finished quietly, lifting her chin with a defiance that was pure Remy. "Yes. We are."

"Alex!" his mother hissed. "You didn't tell us..."

"Because it doesn't matter, Mom," Alex said firmly, reaching for Spade's hand under the table. "Spade's brilliant and kind and amazing, and her being a mutant is just another part of who she is."

"Doesn't matter?" Mr. Greene's fork clattered to his plate. "These people are dangerous! They're–"

"Very capable of hearing you," you interrupted coolly. "And 'these people' include your son's girlfriend and her parents, who are sitting right here."

"How do we know she hasn't... done something to him?" Mrs. Greene demanded, standing abruptly. "Used some kind of mind control or–"

"Maman's not a telepath," Spade said, her voice shaking slightly but determined. "And neither am I. I can charge objects with kinetic energy, like my father. That's all."

"That's all?" Mr. Greene laughed harshly. "You mean you can make things explode? And we're supposed to be comfortable with you dating our son?"

"More comfortable than Remy is with his daughter dating someone whose parents think she's a monster," Remy said quietly, but there was steel beneath the silk of his voice.

"Mom, Dad, please," Alex pleaded. "Just give them a chance. Get to know them. Spade's family is amazing – they've been nothing but welcoming to me."

"Of course they have," Mrs. Greene snapped. "They're probably thrilled their daughter managed to snare a normal boy–"

The wine glass in Remy's hand shattered.

Everyone froze. Slowly, deliberately, Remy uncurled his fingers, letting the charged fragments fall harmlessly to the tablecloth.

"Remy suggests," he said softly, his accent thick with controlled anger, "that you think very carefully about your next words regarding his daughter."

"Are you threatening us?" Mr. Greene stood, reaching for his phone. "In our own home?"

"Non," Remy smiled, but it wasn't a pleasant expression. "Remy's just making sure we understand each other. Because Remy's daughter? She's been crying herself to sleep worrying about making a good impression tonight. She pressed her best dress and practiced controlling her powers for hours because she wanted you to see her as a person first. But clearly," he gestured to the ruined tablecloth, "Remy wasted money on this nice jacket."

"I think," you said, standing and placing a calming hand on Remy's shoulder, "we should go."

"Wait!" Alex stood too. "I'm coming with you."

"Alex, sit down!" his mother ordered.

"No." He moved to stand beside Spade, who was fighting back tears. "I'm seventeen, I can make my own choices. And I choose not to stay here and listen to you insult the girl I love and her family."

The word 'love' hung in the air. Spade's eyes widened, and even Remy's anger faltered for a moment.

"If you walk out that door with them," Mr. Greene warned, "don't bother coming back tonight."

"Fine," Alex said, his voice steady despite his pale face. "I'll stay at Connor's. At least his parents judge people by who they are, not what they are."

You gathered your things in tense silence, Remy's hand protectively on Spade's shoulder. At the door, Mrs. Greene made one last attempt.

"Alex, please. We're just trying to protect you."

"From what?" he asked tiredly. "From Spade, who helps me with calculus and volunteers at the shelter with me? From her mom, who makes sure I eat properly when I'm studying late? From her dad, who's been teaching me to change my own oil so I don't get ripped off at mechanics?" He shook his head. "The only thing I need protection from is this kind of prejudice."

You and Remy shared a look as you walked out with the teens in front. You might have had your opinions at first but you definitely liked Alex now. 

[yellowbunnydreams]

Bunny Ears (Part 13) ~William Afton X F! Reader~

~POV: You finish your paper and have it reviewed only to recieve 30+ comments on it dragging it through the dirt and lighting it on fire. Edit; Finished and submitted, flipped off my computer~

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* Want more or something different? *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

Tag List: @ruh--roh-raggy @h4nluv @sleepy---head @do-double-g @confiscated-peaches-main @dij-ology @viviennemuerte @robin-the-enby @shari-berri @randymeeksisafinalgirl @hallow1090 @aponia-yue @likoplays @dilflover-3 @oak-leafs @phd-in-fuckery @weirdoartist21 @nicolezghostz @fauine

Sorry if I missed you on the tag-list!

CW: Minors DNI, (18+ ONLY), Female Reader, legal age gap (Reader- 20's, William - 30's), divorce/processing divorce, Afton being a sarcastic hot ass, Henry being such a dad, grumpy x sunshine . Faz-Fuck TM. Cringe scenes ft. Henry.

The knocking at your door on your day off stirred you from your sleep. Groggily heading towards the door and opening it whilst rubbing sleep from your eyes with the heel of your hand. The knocks were too light for William, and you weren't expecting any packages, so there was some trepidation as you answered.

Blinking against the bright light, you were surprised to see the petite and lithe figure of Sarah Emily on your step. Blonde hair tied up neatly into a ponytail and wearing jeans with a white t-shirt, looking like a casual woman around your age unless you looked closely and could see the crinkles around her eyes from years of smiling.

"H-Hey! Um...Hi Sarah." You said after a moment of confusion, looking down at yourself and realising that you were wearing William's hoodie again and some shorts. Blushing at the fact this was the second time you had answered the door to somebody you knew whilst dressed in such a state.

"Well good-morning sleephead! I thought I would stop by and come see you." She laughed, giggling more as you gestured for her to come inside and shut the door behind her. Padding into your kitchen and taking out two mugs from the draining board next to your sink, turning on the kettle and finding your instant coffee and tea.

"Tea, coffee?"

"Coffee, milky with two sugars please." Sarah replied, amused at seeing you still somewhat out of it and wearing Afton's hoodie. She recognised it from the similar one Henry had, tucked away back in his closet somewhere in case he wanted to wear it one day. Not that he, nor Afton wore those kinds of things often anymore since the opening of Freddy's.

"So um...how have you been?" You asked, waking up a bit more as you grabbed milk from the fridge, making coffee for Sarah and yourself as you placed them on the counter. Leaning against the cool lino and feeling your attention wandering as you realised that Sarah had a slightly mischievous look on her face. "And I'm guessing this isn't entirely a 'I was in the neighbourhood' call."

"Good good, Charlie's been a little terror recently, but she's sweet otherwise. And you caught me! I wanted to know if you wanted a girly day out, and then, we go on that double-date I mentioned last time?" She asked, making you choke on your coffee slightly, nose burning as the action nearly made it come up through your nose. Coughing to gather yourself, you found yourself looking at your hand and the mug.

"I don't think I've ever...had a girly day? But I'd like the date later!" Sarah raised an eyebrow before she looked incredulous, her slender hand resting over her heart as she looked at you.

"You've never...NEVER... had a girly day out?"

"Nope."

"Get some pants on and get in the fucking car, we are rectifying this, now!" She exclaimed, downing her coffee and making you do the same, wincing as the heat slid down your throat before you half-ran to your room. Throwing on some deodorant, a subtle body-spray and some somewhat clean jeans and a t-shirt over your underwear. Dragging a brush through your hair and huffing as you almost tripped over yourself trying to pull on your socks and boots. Sarah standing by the door and your door keys dangling from her fingers, grin plastered on her face as you grabbed them from her.

"Why did we need to rush again?"

"Oh, no reason, but it was quite funny to watch." She laughed as you locked the front door, laughing harder as you gave her a stern look. Heading to her car and climbing inside, sighing as you rested your head against the seat and closed your eyes briefly.

~~

"William! How're you doing buddy?" Henry called as he opened the office door, making William jump slightly as he was disturbed from his intense concentration on some of the blue-prints in front of him. Pushing his glasses back up his nose, he sighed and looked towards the smaller man. Noticing how his hair was loose and wild despite his professional appearance.

"You only call me 'buddy' when you need something Henry, what is it this time?" Henry placed a hand over his heart and pouted, dramatically leaning against the door frame and sinking against it like he'd just been shot before he stumbled into the office.

"You wound me! I don't do that! You are my buddy!" William scoffed and rolled his eyes at his dramatic business partner before looking back down at the plans in his hand. Scribbling on a separate piece of paper to note some measurements and calculations whilst he heard Henry lean against the desk. Almost hearing the smile in his voice as he spoke again.

"Anyway, me and Sarah are going on a date tonight and we were wondering if you and your little girlfriend would like to join us and make it a double date?" William sighed and set the papers down on his desk, looking over his glasses to see Henry's wild grin. Afton sucked on the inside of his cheek before replying, going to pick up the paperwork on his desk once more.

"Absolutely not, the last time you attempted something like this Henry, Sarah practically bit Clara's head off and you got so pissed you walked half an hour down the high-way before we found you."

"That was college! And secondly, you'll let your girlfriend down if you don't show!"

"I'm sure she also said no to this stupid idea."

"Actually, Sarah's gone to her house and they're having a little trip to get all dolled up for this date tonight." Henry smiled sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck as William dropped the papers and rubbed his hands over his face. Groaning loudly and leaning back in the chair, making it creak under his weight.

"You mean to tell me that Sarah, your wife, has kidnapped my girlfriend and is playing dress-up with her?" Running his hands through his hair whilst glaring at Henry, who nodded with the same, stupid grin plastered on his face. Afton groaned again and put his head in his hands.

"Fine, you sick bastard, I'll come. Just leave the address on my desk and tell me what time to be there."

"Don't forget to bring a condom William, I'm sure that afterwards you'll-"

"HENRY, DON'T BE A FUCKING PERVERT." Henry cackled at his friend's outburst, holding his hands up in defence, laughing harder as William reached into the drawer and chucked balled up paper at the man as he retreated. Leaving William to hide his face in his hands and groan in frustration, wishing his friend had at least asked him before kidnapping you via his wife.

~~

"What about this one?" Sarah asked you, showing you a swatch of an eyeshadow on the back of her hand and you hummed in thought as you looked at it. Shaking your head after a moment. "Oh come on," she groaned your name slightly as she put back the little tester tub. "you have to like something I show you!"

"I'm sorry Sarah, I'm just not...I don't really even do my own make-up. I wear mascara and some lip gloss occasionally, I don't do..this." You gestured to the large make-up counter that you were both at. Glancing over the bold and bright colours that Sarah seemed to favour, brow knitting together as you picked up a container and opened it, looking at the dark green shade inside before closing it and putting it back.

"Maybe we're doing this in the wrong order!" Sarah clapped her hands together before grabbing one of yours, dragging you behind her and almost tripping over your feet with the force the small woman was surprisingly able to move you with. You supposed that she was a mom, so perhaps it was from having to move a reluctant child...or Henry. You could also see Henry having to be dragged away from stores a few times by his wife.

She pulled you into a boutique in the mall, blinking as you adjusted to the new lighting inside and looked around. Spotting plenty of dresses lining the walls and making you groan. You couldn't remember the last time you'd found a dress you would even consider wearing, let alone wearing one, and they all seemed so formal, you'd hoped that you could get away with a nice top and some cleaner jeans for the date. Sarah seemingly had other ideas as she began browsing the racks.

Under encouragement, and a few teasing words, from Sarah, you began looking too. Hands idly flipping through the dresses and cringing as some of the material felt awful under your fingers, others just a plain ugly colour that you wouldn't be caught dead in.

"Can I help you find something?" The voice made you jump and you turned to see an elegantly dressed shop assistant standing near to you, heart pounding in your chest as you looked back at the dresses for a second, brow furrowed and a soft sigh escaping your lips as your shoulders slumped.

"I um..I'm going on a double date tonight and apparently I have to wear a dress..so..yeah. Just trying to find something I like honestly." You say, speaking quietly as your fingers scanned through the materials before the woman cleared her throat again, grabbing your attention once more.

"Well, what colour does your date usually wear?" They asked, making you pause only for a moment before you answered.

"Black."

"Well, I'm guess you're newly together, so matching might be a little much. But I can suggest some colours that work well and we'll figure out style from there." She smiled, making you give a polite smile back as she gestured towards another part of the store. Practised eyes scanning through the dresses and flickering back to you before her hands darted out to pick out a few dresses before taking you back to the dressing rooms, where Sarah was already admiring herself in a dark green dress that hugged her figure perfectly, a long slit up her leg and showing it off.

The assistant handed you the dresses and shooed you into a dressing room, pursing your lips together before you obeyed. Hoping that there would be at least one thing you liked amongst the pile.

~~

Sarah carefully brushed your eyelids with a careful precision that you were unsure you would have ever been able to manage. Feeling what felt almost like a brush-pen moving against your lid and out before you heard the click of a lid closing. Her slender hand grabbing your chin gently before you heard another lip pop, your eyes closed as you let the older woman manoeuvre you and do your make-up as she saw fit.

You jumped slightly as you felt a cool wetness against your lips, making the woman tut disapprovingly as she tightened her grip slightly and coated your lips, letting go of you as she spoke. "Press your lips together for me dear." Following her instructions and feeling some of the stickiness dissipate before your eyes fluttered open, blinking rapidly as you glanced up at her.

"Go on, check yourself out little lady!" She squealed, helping you to stand up in the tiny kitten heels she had somehow convinced you to wear as well. Focusing intently on walking as you walked up to the mirror that Sarah had placed on the floor so that you could get a better look at yourself.

Your hair had been set loosely around your shoulders, styled to perfection and looking glossy, healthy. You were surprised by how lovely the dress looked, a soft purple chiffon with translucent sleeves and a 'v' shaped neckline, allowing the swell of your breasts to be visible as well as the dip of your collarbones. The middle wrapping tight to your body to show off your waist before the skirt flowed down, coming to your knees and floating slightly like something you saw in fancy prom movies. It looked almost a similar shade to purple that you were sure you had seen William wearing before. And Sarah had masterfully applied winged eye-liner to your eyes, darkening your lashes with mascara and the faint shimmer of nude coloured eyeshadows could faintly be made out. Your lips glossy and tasting like almonds.

Stepping behind you, Sarah's blonde hair was tied up into a classicly braided updo, two curled strands framing her face as you noticed she had similar make-up to how you had it. The dark green dress from earlier looking stunning on her as she placed her hands on your shoulders, smiling brightly.

"You look gorgeous, dear."

"I feel like I'm a little girl playing dress-up." You sighed, smoothing your hands down your dress carefully and frowning slightly, making her tut as she took your hands, bringing them up and smoothing over your knuckles with her thumbs.

"You don't look like it. William is going to not know what hit him when he sees you." She smiled, making you blush and smile back, nodding your head as you allowed her to guide you through the house and out to the waiting taxi. She'd driven her car back home and gotten a taxi back to yours, calling for one to pick you up and take you out to the restaurant that apparently William and Henry were waiting at.

You shifted nervously in your seat, watching the streets blur past before Sarah gently nudged your bag towards you, smiling as you opened it and took out a little bottle of perfume. The only expensive one you owned, it was your signature one for more 'formal' occasions, and it seemed like as good a time as any to use it. Carefully applying it to your pulse points, the smell comforting and exciting as you put away the bottle. Sarah applying her own perfume and touching up her gloss a bit as the ride seemed all too short and all too long at the same time.

You made out Henry's car parked up, frowning as you noticed you didn't spot William's, stomach sinking as you climbed out of the taxi whilst Sarah paid before she linked arms with you.

"I told Henry to pick up William, they're both at the table and waiting for us." She reassured, noticing your worried expression with a comforting squeeze of your hand. Heels clicking against the concrete as you both headed inside.

It was far more formal than any place you'd been before. And your silly plastic bracelet felt out of place in there. You felt out of place in there. Waiters in white shirts and black pants ran about with towels over their arms, the walls wood panelled and the floor a beautiful, rich patterned marble tile. Your heart pounded in your chest as you allowed Sarah to drag you along.

Henry spotted the pair of you and gestured for William that you had arrived. Watching the pair of them squeeze out of the booth as you approached, your breath catching in your throat slightly.

Henry had his hair loose, revealing all it's fluffy, curled glory that was still cropped somewhat close to his head. Clearly freshly shaven and dressed in a dark green suit that matched Sarah's dress, crisp white shirt and a black tie, he looked ecstatic that he had matched his wife, seeing him tear up slightly as he caught sight of her.

But you lost your breath with William. Dressed head to toe in black. he had put on tailored black pants that seemed to highlight how long his legs were, as well as how strong they looked. Sleeves rolled up on the black shirt, tight across his broad chest in a way that made you afraid he would pop buttons if he flexed in the wrong way. His greying hair slicked back and his eyes slightly wide behind his glasses as he drank you in. You smiled as he raised his hand and you spotted the bracelet still on his arm, feeling comforted that he had continued to wear it despite the more formal setting.

His jaw fluttered slightly as he watched you approach. Wearing one of his favourite colours and the slight way you wobbled when you walked as you clearly tried to get used to moving in heels. He found himself feeling relief that you had worn the bracelet too, but his heart was pounding too fast in his chest as he took you in. You were a picture of beauty, and he reached out his hand as you came closer, taking your softer hand in his before he half-bowed to plant a kiss onto the back of your hand. Breathing deeply as he smelled your perfume and feeling his body aching with want.

"You look gorgeous, bunny. I should perhaps let Sarah have you more often." The teasing tone in his voice evident for the second part as you giggled, blushing and feeling the heat rising in your cheeks as he kept ahold of your hand.

"I-I don't think I need anymore make-up or dresses. But you look really nice." You swallowed, trying to change the subject back onto him. Seeing his cheeks heat up despite the stubble across his face. A lopsided grin being given to you as he gently guided you into the booth, still holding your hand as you settled in, his thumb running over your knuckles adoringly.

Henry called your name and you glanced at him, seeing his eyes still watering as he looked between you and your held hand. "You look great. I hope this isn't too short notice or strange, but I wanted to take Sarah on a date and then it occurred to me, I should invite you guys along too!" Chuckling and sniffling as he tried to not be too emotional as William remained close to you. Sarah rolled her eyes slightly, but the smile on her face told you that she wasn't really annoyed, kissing Henry's cheek before she picked up a menu to glance over.

"Thank you for inviting me, I really appreciate it. And I hope that it's as fun for all of us." You smile, seeing Henry's lip quiver at your words. Nodding his head before he looked at the menu, trying to distract himself.

William brought your hand to his lips again, giving your hand a squeeze as you leaned in and gave his knuckles as kiss in return. Smelling his warm, spiced cologne as you got closer, making you feel dizzy as you turned your attention to the menu. Still holding onto him as you browsed the options.

It was going to be a long night, but you felt a little more confident to face it with William by your side.

[roping-riding-wrangling]

Rapture

Where You Lead Masterlist

“Dad?” You call out when you enter the house. You can hear the radio playing from somewhere, so you follow it to the laundry room where your dad is folding towels. “Hey buddy. How was work?” he asked, setting down the last of the towels. 

“It was good,” you began, “there was a weird power outage, but that’s it.”

You quickly duck into room to change into sweats and a t-shirt, returning to your dad still talking,  “…wonder if it hit the whole town. Maybe it's from the lab?” 

“What could they be doing that would cause a town-wide blackout?” you ponder aloud.

You migrate to the kitchen, and he brings the radio with him. 

“I don’t know, ” he answers, then pauses and continues, “Maybe they’re testing windmill power?” 

You furrow your brow at that, “Does Hawkins even have windmills?”

“Thats probably why it didn’t work then,” he giggles, clearly pleased at his joke.

Summary: Y/n Newby works the closing shift at Benny's Burgers, accidentally gives someone a nosebleed, and meets a really weird kid

Word Count: 3.3k

Warnings: Newby!reader, Blood, Minors smoking, Trashy romance novels, not proofread

Anastasia gripped Robert’s biceps, taking note of how firm and large they were under her petite hands. They stood at the cliff’s edge, surrounded by the British navy. “Oh Robert, what are we going to do?”

“Don’t worry my love, as long as we are together we can survive anything.”

With that, the pirate dipped her low and kis-

A large hand grabs the book from you, interrupting the passionate scene.

“A Pirate’s Love…really? What was it last week, A Ride to Remember? I think you might need an intervention at this point”

Looking up, you see Jonathan Byers grabbing the book to read the summary on the back.

“It was not A Ride to Remember,” you say, grabbing the book back from the boy, “It was Big Sky Country and it was very tasteful, thank you! God, you make it sound like all I read is bodice ripping filth.”

Jonathan raises his eyebrow, pointedly looking at the cover of your book, which features a woman’s bodice literally being ripped off her body by the handsome pirate. 

“Ok this is a bad example,” you defend, slightly pink in the face.

 “The first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem.” He says, smirking. 

“The only problem I have is you.” 

Benny’s Burgers had been dead since 9 pm, save for the boy who’d come in just before 10.  Normally, Jonathan would have gone straight home, but after working a double he needed a pick-me-up in the form of a cheeseburger – and your company. 

You sit behind the counter, book back in your hands, while Benny is in the back, getting ready to close the kitchen. 

Jonathan sits on the other side, fiddling with the radio at the counter, changing the station to find something more aligned with his taste, so you take the opportunity to examine his worn out face. 

He was clearly weary after work, the constant eyebags looking even heavier than normal. His 5 o'clock shadow looks like it had been there for at least a day and he has the distinct smell of old popcorn oil that tells you he’d been stuck at the concessions stand for at least 5 hours. 

You clear your throat looking pointedly at him, “What do you want?”

He looks at you sheepishly, seemingly having forgotten that he still needed to order, “uh, a number 3.”

You nod at him, then yell through the window at Benny, “Drag a cow through Wisconsin and marry it!”

“Just say it normally!” you hear him call back. 

You giggle back at his annoyed response to your insistence at using the old fashioned diner lingo.

Turning back to Jonathan you ask, “what do you want to drink?”

His eyes flick to the milkshake machine, then he looks up at you grinning, “what’s new?”

You lean over the counter at him, matching grin on your face, “working on something new for the holidays: hot chocolate milkshake”

Jonathan raises an eyebrow, “how is it different from regular chocolate?”

You scoff, as if it's obvious, “it has marshmallows”

“That's it?” he laughs and you scoff again, “No! It also has a candy cane.”

Not 10 minutes later, Jonathan is chewing through his burger ferociously, only breaking to sip on his milkshake. Glancing at your watch, you look up at the boy, still working his way through his meal. Sighing, you speak, “Mind if I close around you?”

He grunts his approval, clearly more interested in his burger. 

Going through your closing tasks, you’re mopping the floor when the lights flicker, then go out. “Hey, Benny?” you call out in the darkness, careful not to slip on the wet floor. 

“Yeah, I know…let me check the generator.”

The darkness only lasts 30 more seconds and suddenly the lights return. 

Jonathan never stopped eating his food. At 10:30, you finally kick him out. 

“I put the closed sign out like 15 minutes ago!”, you say as you push him out of the diner. 

“You’re the best, you know that,” he laughs as you close the door behind him. 

“Yeah, you’re just saying that cause I didn’t make you pay”

You lock the door and turn to the kitchen. Grabbing your coat and bag, you exit through the back door. The cool air hits your legs. Your uniform isn’t very forgiving to the early November air, but its not unbearable. You hoof it to your truck, parked next to Benny’s. 

“Can I get one of those?” you nod at the cigarette carton he holds. He rolls his eyes then hands you the pack of reds. 

After lighting his own stick, he passes the lighter to you, “Don’t tell your dad”

“Obviously,” you don’t even look up, taking a drag of the cigarette. 

You lean against his truck, next to him. As you smoke in silence, you find yourself humming a familiar tune. Benny huffs out a laugh and catches on

“...B-B-B-Bennie and the jets!”, you sing out the piano accompaniment as well. 

The pair of you dissolve into laughter and Benny puts his arm around you, pulling you into a tight side hug. He ruffles your hair and says, “alright buddy, get home safe.”

“See you tomorrow”

 –––––

“Dad?” You call out when you enter the house. You can hear the radio playing from somewhere, so you follow it to the laundry room where your dad is folding towels. “Hey buddy, how was work?” he asks, setting down the last of the towels. 

“It was good,” you begin, “there was a weird power outage, but that’s it.”

You quickly duck into your room to change into sweats and a t-shirt, returning to your dad still talking,  “…wonder if it hit the whole town? Maybe it's from the lab?” 

“What could they be doing that would cause a town-wide blackout?” you ponder aloud.

You migrate to the kitchen, and he brings the radio with him. 

“I don’t know, ” he answers, then pauses and continues, “Maybe they’re testing windmill power?” 

You furrow your brow at that, “Does Hawkins even have windmills?”

“Thats probably why it didn’t work then,” he giggles, clearly pleased at his joke.

You roll your eyes and pull some leftovers from the fridge then stick them in the microwave. Listening to the radio, your dad hums along to the music, some old country song. 

The next song plays and you smile as your dad holds out his hands to twirl you around the kitchen. Your dad sings along to Carole King as you laugh through the dizziness he inflicts on you. 

He finally relents and lets you catch your breath when the microwave finishes. You grab your plate and give him a quick on the cheek. “Night dad!” you call out from your doorway. 

“Sweat dreams, buddy!” you softly grin at his reply.

–––––

The next morning comes far too early for you. The alarm blares angrily while you blindly throw your hand to shut it off. Trudging into the kitchen, you start on making coffee for you and your dad. You usually get up before him, meaning you take care of breakfast and morning chores. 

Putting the last of the grinds into the machine, you make a mental note to get more after school. The soft glow of the kitchen light allows you to read as you wait for the coffee to brew.

The hiss of the coffee machine rouses you from your book and you pull two mugs from the cabinet, before pouring half the pot into yours. You make two lunches, put one into the fridge and leave for early morning practice. 

––––––

At the school, you are one of the first to show up in the locker room. Its nice to have the peace that comes with just you and a quiet few others. You duck down to reach your lower level locker, incidentally becoming invisible as a group of three girls from the cheer team also walk in, conversing rather loudly for 6 am. 

“I totally saw them making out in the boys bathroom last week,” the blonde exclaims while putting on her top, “like have some decency.”

“Ew! I don’t even know what he sees in her, she’s a sophomore,” the other replies in a nasally voice, “and not even a cool one, all she does is study!”

“Do you think he’s using her to get better grades,” the third asks airily, “she is really smart.”

“Whatever,” the blonde counters, “he’ll probably move on in like 2 seconds when he realizes what a priss she is”

You roll your eyes at that and stand up, alerting them to your presence. Silently, you walk past them and onto the field to start your run. 

You put your walkman in to listen to a Blondie album. As you run, your mind begins to wander.

 You don’t know Nancy Wheeler well, as the two of you interact peripherally. You had shared a class once or twice, and you saw her in the hallways decently frequently. You know her brother hangs out with your next door neighbor, he and all his little friends bike around the block pretty frequently. She always seemed kind, saying hi when you crossed paths, but you didn’t actually know enough to determine if the blonde was right about her being a priss. 

However, you are sure they were right about Steve moving on in no time. Even you, who tries so desperately to keep your head down and away from the popular kids, knew about Steve Harringtion’s reputation. His intense popularity earned him the nickname  “King Steve''. You understand why, from a technical standpoint. He’s rich, good at sports, and is (in a completely objective way) attractive. 

Your mind continues to roam, and you briefly remembered the time you and Steve had partnered on a history project. It was right before you found out your mom had died

You shook that thought from your head and focused on running faster. In your ears, the nonsense rapping of Debbie Harry blared and you felt the sweat drip down your face, despite the November chill. The coach sounded the whistle and you ran towards the gym for your actual practice, tossing your walkman onto the bleachers inside. 

You’ve partnered with Anna for passing. The sting against your fingertips as you hit the volleyball feels good, like a physical reminder of how powerfully you are hitting the ball. The longer the drills go on, the more the thoughts from earlier creeping in.

Nancy, smiling and nodding at you in the halls.

Hit!

Steve sitting next to you in the library.

Smack!

Your mom’s funeral.

Thud!

You hear the coaches whistle before you realize you’ve hit the ball into the face of one of the JV girls. Blood gushes out of her nose onto the shiny gym floor. Her coach rushes her to the nurse while yours orders you to do 30 burpees and 3 laps.

The cold water of the locker room does nothing to ease the tension in your body. 

––––––

In 6th period English, Mrs. Fleming drones on about Of Mice and Men when you notice the seat behind you is empty. Jonathan’s seat. You glance up to make sure Mrs. Fleming isn’t looking before you pass a note to the girl next to you.

Do you know where Byers is?

It takes a moment but you receive the note back with new writing.

I heard something happened to his brother

Your mind runs wild at the thought of something bad happening to Will. It always warmed your heart to see the small boy with Jonathan, especially when the teen treats him to dinner at Benny’s. You make sure that he always gets extra whipped cream on his shakes as you hand them to him with a wink. 

The worry stays in your bones through the rest of the day. 

––––––

You begin your shift stressed, tying the small apron around your waist, finding it empty. 

“Benny, did you see where I put my pad?” you call out into the restaurant

“Uh, check the office,” his voice comes out from somewhere in the dining area. Earl and Henry are probably out there. 

It's right there on the desk. Of course it is.

You walk further into the building, so focused on putting your hair up that you almost collide with the small body hunched over the kitchen counters. 

“hey!”

A tiny face looks up at you, nearly feral with fear and begins to back up, right into Benny. He moves to grab the child, but it's faster and runs away, crashing into you. You instinctively wrap your arms around the small frame as it freezes. 

“Hey-hey,” you carefully lower yourself to eye-level trying to remain gentle without letting them go, “its ok…its ok” 

You’re finally able to get a good look. What you see angers you: A shaved head, bare feet, hospital gown and the kid is covered in dirt and grime. All signs point to some terrible reason for this child to be stealing fries from Benny’s. 

The kid seems to calm down, and doesn’t run when you move to only hold her hand. 

You look at Benny, unsure of where to go from here. 

“What d’you think about closing early?” he says, looking back at you with the same confusion. 

–––––

You’d helped the kid clean up and replace her hospital gown with an extra large t shirt from the restaurant. She’s so small that the shirt swallows her and your heart aches.

Benny has given her some food, which she scarfs down, even faster than Jonathan. You sit across from her, both you and Benny trying to get her to open up.

“Your parents forget to feed you?” Benny asks, “Is that why you ran away?”

The girl just keeps eating. 

“Were you hurt?” you question gently, “Why were you in the hospital?”

Still nothing

“You run away from the hospital?” Benny continues

At this the girl looks up briefly, then goes straight back to the burger. Frustrated, Benny pulls the burger away from her.

You smack her in the chest, scolding him “Hey man, you can’t just take food from a starving kid!”

“I’m not taking it away. She can have it back, and more, if she answers us. Maybe I'll throw in some ice cream too.” he looks back at the silent girl, “do we have a deal”

He takes her silence as agreement. 

“Ok, lets start with the easy stuff,” he begins, “I’m Benny. Benny Hammond.” he shows her how to shake hands. You hold out your hand and she gingerly takes it. You give her a smile, speaking softly, “I’m Y/n Newby. What's your name?” 

The girl looks confused and the silence remains. Benny glances down at her arm and your eyes follow his to a small marking–a tattoo of some kind. She yanks her arm back, but you catch the numbers before she hides them.

“Eleven? What does it mean? Can you tell us?” you ask

“No”, she says timidly.

Benny interjects, “Well I’ll be damned, she speaks.”

You send a glare his way, to which he rolls his eyes and addresses the girl, “‘no’ No, what?”

She goes back to holding her tongue. 

“Alright, fine. No more food then,” he gets up, taking the tray with him

You attempt to protest, but the child beats you to the punch, “Eleven”

You and Benny exchange glances before he sits back down and probes further, “yeah Eleven– what does that mean?”

She points at herself then repeats it, “Eleven.”

Benny returns the food to her and she chews voraciously. He leaves her with you while he calls social services from the kitchen. You stare at the little girl. She looks no older than 12. The color has returned to her cheeks since eating and she certainly looks better now that shes been mildly cleaned up. 

Eleven looks up at you through her eyelashes and pushes her now empty cup to you.

“You want some more?” you ask and she nods. 

You pop behind the counter, to the soda fountain and refill her cup with water. Walking back, you notice its quieter, but you can’t place why. Glancing around, you see the fan has stopped whirring. It had been annoying in the beginning when Benny got it, but eventually it became just another part of the background noise. 

You pay it no mind, continuing your path to the little girl currently wiping her nose. 

You set down her water and openly stare at her as she hoovers down her burger. She finishes, her face covered in grease and sauce. Grabbing some napkins, you hand them to her but she just stares at you blankly. “Here,” you reach for her cheek with another napkin and she leans away, “Its ok. I’m just gonna wipe your face. You got a little carried away there” 

She leans back toward you, blushing lightly, and you clear her face of the burger’s remains. 

“There,” you smile, staring at your handiwork, “clean as a whistle!”

The toothy smile she gives you warms your heart. You lean closer to her and faux whisper, “Have you ever had a milkshake?”

She shakes her head no and you smirk, “prepare to have your mind blown.”

Ten minutes later, you are both sat on the kitchen counters, giggling as Eleven tries her 3rd shake from the lineup you’ve created. 

“What do you think, kiddo?” you ask, and she thinks for a minute then places the chocolate shake in between the strawberry and vanilla.

“Ooh, strawberry remains number one?” you check and she grins and nods. 

With every minute you spend with her, you notice her opening up more and more. You don’t know how you’re going to be able to leave her at the end of the night. You’ve already stayed 30 minutes later than when your shift was supposed to end. 

As you’re contemplating, Benny walks in, finally off the phone. 

“Y/n” he says, jerking his head to the office. You look back at Eleven, apprehensive about leaving her alone, but she seems content sipping on her chocolate shake as she fishes for the cherry from the already done strawberry shake. 

You follow Benny into the office, leaving the door slightly ajar. 

You immediately question him, “what’d they say?”

He pulls his hand over his face, “they’re coming in the morning to get her…taking her up to Roane county offices. She’ll stay here tonight, I can set the cot out tonight for her.”

You glanced out to peek at Eleven, who’d moved onto her next shake. She was so small, and you’d heard of kids who’d gone into the system. Furrowing your brow, you asked Benny, “Do you need me to stay here tonight?” 

He shook his head, “It's okay buddy, you’ve got class tomorrow. You get home – I’ve got this.”

“Okay…” you responded, not sure why you were so disappointed.

–––––

After you hang up your apron, you approach Eleven, still sitting on the counter. “Hey kiddo,” you begin, “I have to head home.”

She looks up at you, her brown eyes swimming with uncertainty. If you weren’t so close at her, you wouldn’t have heard her say, “Leave?” “Yeah, Eleven, I’m leaving.” you reply.

“No,” she begins to hop off the counter, “stay”

You crouch to her height and hold arms softly

“Oh kiddo…I have to go home, but I’ll tell you what: I’ve had such a great time with you today. I’ll give you my number, and whenever you get where you’re going, you can give me a call, ok? You’ll tell me all about it?” you reach into your bag and tear a piece of paper from your notebook, writing your bedroom phone number on it. You pass it into Eleven’s hand before she pulls you into a tight hug. When she finally releases you from the embrace, you wipe a stray tear from her cheek. 

Rising, you lift her back onto the counter and pat her forehead. Loud enough for Benny to hear, you say, “Alright you two, don’t have too much fun. Eleven, keep an eye on him.”

You give her a wink and she giggles.

Walking out the door, you hear Benny call out to you, "bye buddy!"

Next Part

[mimisempai]

Witness against their will

Summary

As Muriel entered the kitchen, all they wanted to do was steal a few appetizers, not expecting to witness a tender scene... again.

Notes

Because it's been a long time since I included Muriel in my little stories.

On Ao3

Rating G -  461 words

Muriel slipped through the kitchen door to spy on Aziraphale as he prepared a plate of appetizers, hoping to snatch one or two.

"Aziraphale?"

Hearing Crowley's voice, Muriel ran on tiptoe to hide in a corner between a cabinet and the window.

Crowley approached Aziraphale and wrapped his arms around the angel's waist, hugging him from behind and taking the opportunity to steal a petit-four.

Aziraphale sighed and said in a slightly annoyed tone, "I really wonder how I've put up with you all these millennia."

Muriel had to stifle a laugh, for they had heard such arguments countless times since they had known the angel and the demon, and even more since they had been together.

The smile on his lips belied his words as Crowley turned him in his arms and replied, "You put up with me so long because I have beautiful eyes.

Aziraphale chuckled, then shook his head before replying, "Though your eyes are indeed gorgeous, I don't think that's the reason."

Crowley pouted, then tilted his head and pressed his lips to Aziraphale's in a light, tender kiss before retorting, "Because my kisses are irresistible?"

Aziraphale shook his head again and said softly, "Oh, they are, but it's no thanks to them either, I mean, it hasn't been that long since I've been able to taste your kisses."

Seeing the turn the discussion was taking, Muriel looked for a way to sneak away, not feeling entitled to spy on such intimacy, but it was difficult without revealing their presence.

The demon said in a slightly less teasing voice, "So maybe you put up with me because you love me?"

Muriel saw Aziraphale smile mischievously as he turned to pick up the tray of hors d'oeuvres. Then, as he turned, the angel took Crowley's hand in his free one before replying, "Probably, my dear, probably."

Muriel retreated into their hiding place as the angel and demon made their way out of the kitchen.

"Muriel! Where are you, little bee?"

Well, it looked like they wouldn't be able to hide their presence in the kitchen for long after all.

Muriel called, "I'm here, Maggie, I'm coming!"

This, of course, made Crowley and Aziraphale turn around, their expressions slightly shocked as Muriel joined them.

Then Muriel figured they might as well go all out, so they boldly untied the angel’s and demon's intertwined hands and wrapped their arms around their shoulders, pulling them toward the living room, saying, "Come on, you two, there'll be time for snogging later."

"Snogging?"

"It seems our little bee is acquiring new vocabulary every day."

Aziraphale and Crowley looked at each other, cheeks slightly flushed with embarrassment, before bursting out in laughter.

Muriel was right, they would have plenty of time to kiss later.

_________

Still not beta'd

Still not my native language

Still hoping you'll enjoy this story  🥰

Still thanking you for bearing with me 😝

Ineffable Growing Love series : (After season 2) 

Part 1 Story 1-99

Part 2 Story 100-?

Ineffable Husbands masterlist : here (Before season 2)

[starryriize]

delulu thoughts | sungho

a/n: happy new year !! here’s a lil something that i wrote for myself because sungho is just so perfect :( i hope you all enjoy this 🧚🏼‍♀️

ஐ he’s the type to splurge on you because he thinks you’re worth the whole world

ஐ bf!sungho who always puts you first :(( he’s the type to thinks ahead so best believe he’s planned out dates for you to go on!

ஐ bf!sungho who lets you sleep on his shoulders 🥹 it doesn’t matter where! if you wanna sleep, he will make sure you get the beauty sleep you need

ஐ like jaehyun, he’s memorized your favorite coffee!! he likes to bring you to new cafes and then post you on his insta!! 🫶🏼 absolute bf goals

ஐ bf!sungho who takes every. single. opportunity to flirt with you!! he’s a confident man and he knows his affect on you 😫

ஐ bf!sungho who loves to pinch your cheeks and calling you cute :((

ஐ probably gives the most gentle, yet passion filled kisses!! yk how they say your moles and imperfections are where your past lover kissed you? he’d kiss you EVERYWHERE omg practically worships you

ஐ 1000% teaches you to cook (bc if you’re like me, i should never be near a kitchen) he’s so patient with you too!! loves seeing your eyes sparkle as you eat the meals he makes 😌

ஐ loves listening to you drone on about your favorite pastimes! gives him time to admire you and truly appreciate the small details about you

ஐ thinks you’re the prettiest when you’ve just woken up! the way your hair is just all over the place…makes him want to spend forever with you!!

ஐ saves desserts for you!! esp when he’s at some event, he’ll bring home some petit fours or a cookie saying “oh yeah, i was thinking about you”

ஐ same goes for how he gets presents! he’s incredibly thoughtful so he’d be shopping with his friends and see something you’d mentioned needing- and he’ll buy it 🥹

ஐ LOVES your fit checks!! he’s the perfect bf so he’s never afraid to show you off and tell the world that you literally have perfect style 🫶🏼 hypes you up when you’re unsure of your outfit

ஐ in return, he’s genuinely so appreciative when you come and support him!! lowkey brags to his members like “see!! my s/o is supporting me 🥰”

ஐ an overall green forest!! would definitely dance with you even if there wasn’t any music! recreates his favorite kdrama scenes with you too (he secretly loves seeing you smile at his acting skills)

ஐ as he wears contacts, he gets so much relief when he gets home and takes the contacts out! so much more comfortable with glasses on and proceeds to lounge on the couch with you

ஐ 1000% will dry your hair for you even if you tell him that it’s okay to air dry😭 (he’s so perfect sighs)

ஐ at the end of the day, he secretly knows he’s going to end up marrying you and he’s already asked your parents !

[creative-heart]

"Love's Blossom"| Enzo Vogrincic

Chapter 4: “After the storm”

Lucia’s Notes: Okay so as promised, this is starting to head upwards into fluffy territory, I promise!

Content Warnings: There are still mentions of grief in this chapter.

Word Count: 1.6K

After a couple of days in the hospital and making sure everything was alright internally, Enzo and Y/N were discharged to go home, those first few days back into routine were the farthest they could be from normal, as much as the brunette tried to get back to her routine slowly, she couldn’t find the strength neither emotionally nor physically to get out of bed, no one ever tells you how big of a toll a miscarriage takes in your body. A few more weeks went by, until one morning, when Enzo, who had been the absolute knight in shining armor he usually was being the biggest support for his girlfriend even if that meant crying in the shower or staying up late to be strong for her, was out at the grocery store getting some last minute breakfast supplies; Y/N got out of bed and made her way downstairs slowly and into the kitchen starting to work on breakfast slowly. She heard her doctor when she said Y/N should take things easy, and give her body time to heal. 

As she was making pancakes the brunette felt the strong protective arms of her boyfriend gently wrapping around her middle a sweet kiss was placed on her temple “Good morning my love, what are you doing out of bed? I intended to do this you know? I just went to the store real quick because we were out of your favorite syrup for the pancakes” he said softly. Y/N smiled for the first time in weeks, “I know you went out, heard the door, and I needed to get out of bed, my back was hurting from lying down, so I decided to help. You’ve done so much for me these weeks that I also felt the need to do something for you.” Enzo’s low chuckle felt like music to Y/N’s ears and after placing the pancakes on a plate, she sat at the table. 

It had been almost a month since that horrid day and for the first time, something seemed lighter in the house, the atmosphere was slowly starting to shift, and they both were relieved about that. Enzo looked at Y/N as she ate and smiled softly, if this whole situation had changed something it was only the fact that even though he didn’t think it was possible, he was now even more in love with the petite woman than he had ever been. He was certain now, that they would get out of this whole thing stronger, and closer together, he felt it in his bones. 

As Y/N slowly started to feel stronger, they decided to start getting out of the house more, they could both use the fresh air and sun from the end of summer, and that’s how they took up the habit of going on daily evening walks at the close by park, they always loved that place and as Enzo starts picking his camera up again, this is the perfect scenario to get lost in his lense. Y/N enjoyed those walks as well, taking in the slowly changing color of the tree leaves, and the laughter from the kids playing in the playground area, a sound that if she was being completely honest with herself she thought would never enjoy again. 

She hadn’t told Enzo yet, because she was terrified about it, but at her last doctor’s appointment, she was given the all-clear by her gynecologist to try again if they wanted to. Up until not long ago, she was adamant about not going through the whole process again, she was too scared it would end up the same way the last one had, and she knew she wasn’t strong enough to take another heartbreak like that one. But as time went on, and she started getting back into normal life, seeing the kids at the park playing with their parents, she realized she still wanted that life, she wanted to be that mom running after a toddler who refused to go home after an afternoon of playing.

Y/N was so deep in thought she hadn’t even realized Enzo had been taking pictures of her and just overall observing her as she looked at the different scenes unfolding in front of her until he leaned over and whispered “Penny for your thoughts chiquita?” She smiled softly loving when he used that pet name on her and looked over at the taller man “I was just thinking that…at my last checkup, Dr. Walters said that I was in the clear if we wanted to you know….give it another go” she said softly as Enzo looked at her not quite understanding what his girlfriend was referring to “the baby making thing Enzo” she said a bit exasperated at how oblivious the older one could be at times “oooohhh you meant that….I mean, as scared shitless as I am about losing you…I haven’t given up hope on having a baby, so if you’re on board…like I always say, you’re the one that has to go through it, it’s your body, and as much as I support you and help and whatever, it’s still you who has to want to do this, and I wouldn’t blame you if you said no” Y/N smiled at how much he started rambling when he was nervous, so she stood on her tiptoes and kissed him softly.

“You’re right about one thing, I’m scared shitless, but I don’t want to let fear dictate how I live my life, I won’t let that happen.” She said softly as she broke the kiss shortly after and just seeing that boyish smile on her boyfriend’s face, made it all worth it, she’d trade the world for that bright smile of his.

For some strange reason, this time around it took them no time at all to get it done, three weeks after that conversation in the park Y/N was supposed to get her period, and when the day came and that didn’t happen, along with how tired she had been those past few days, she knew…her instinct told her that it had happened, that she was pregnant once again. There she was once more, staring down at the little stick as it processed, and when the little plus sign showed up on the screen indicating that her instincts were correct she covered her mouth with her hand tearing up. She was determined to make it special for Enzo as well. 

She hid the test in her nightstand drawer and made her way to the mall, she needed to get some balloons that said Congrats Daddy, and a onesie that read “I have the best dad”, along with a t-shirt for Enzo saying “Best Dad”, while she was there she got a nice gift bag and ribbon as well as some tissue paper to get it all together and made her way back to their place locking herself in the room that would be the nursery hoping that Enzo wouldn’t come home earlier from his workout so that she could set everything up. Once she was done Y/N set everything on the table the little gift bag with the baby blue and baby pink tissue poking out and the balloons around it and sat down on the couch texting Enzo “Hey love… are you almost coming home? I’m quite hungry and want some of that sourdough bread from the bakery near your gym” Enzo frowned confused as she had never really liked that bread “Didn’t you say last time it was too sour? but yeah, I’m coming, don’t worry” Y/N smiled biting her lip “Alright, see you soon love”.

Around five minutes later the apartment's front door opened and Enzo surely enough came, holding the bread he had been asked to get. Y/N walked out of the kitchen smiling “Hey love, I’ve got a present for you” The taller guy smiled walking in, and looked around seeing the balloons and the bag on the table “What’s all this about babe?” Y/N just offered him the bag taking the bread and bit her lip as the older one rummaged through the paper taking the things out and looking at them “What’s all this about?” Enzo asked oblivious to the well thought point of his girlfriend; “Just read the damn shirt Vogrincic!” she huffed exasperated.

After what felt like an eternity to the younger one, Enzo looked up, wide eyes and a huge grin on his face “Shut up…are you?...are we? Is this?” he mumbled stumbling upon his own words the shy giggle and nod from the girl enough confirmation for him to hug her tight and kiss her with as much love as he could master from his heart before kneeling and whispering into her tummy “I know you’re probably the size of a pea right now and haven’t developed the ability to hear me yet little one, but know this, I love you more than words could ever express and I swear to make it my life’s mission to keep you safe and sound from what can hurt you, teach you all the things you need to know in life to be a good, kind person and walk beside you for as long as you need me. I couldn’t be happier that you have chosen us to be your mommy and daddy, I’m sure your little brother or sister sent you our way and we’ll be the best parents you could have ever wished for or die trying.” As Y/N listened to her boyfriend talk to their baby that way running her hands through his jet-black hair she let the tears that had been burning her eyes to fall free finally, these were happy tears, nervous tears sure, but the happiest tears ever, she knew this time around, they’d be okay.

P.S:  I told you guys this was going to get better soon, and get ready for the most adorable version of Enzo in my head, because I’m going to dig deep in my fluffiness for these upcoming chapters.

Taglist: @madame-fear @lastflowrr @deepinsideyourbeing @chiquititamia @luceracastro @cyliarys-starlight @castawaycherry @candycanes19 @koiibiito @lxdyred @nperoconelcositoarriba

[callmeklair]

declaration

chapter two

“you are a total child, Ayato-kun”

– Yui's room, Sakamaki mansion :

Yui grunted in pain when the dream ended and she woke up. Her fingers trembled as she stretched them to bring the small soft toy closer to her. It's fur was warm, the heat radiated from Yui's body while she was sleeping, transmitted into it. "Chichinashi" Ayato suddenly popped up above Yui's petite body, which was still laying on bed, his voice was hasty and urgent. But from a certain angle, the position they were in, made it look like some kind of intimate action was happening between them. Yui blushed at the sudden outburst of the red haired male and he lowered his body more. 

"What is it Ayato-kun?" She asked, her voice a little shaky. "Takoyaki" bewildered, Yui stared at his face which annoyed Ayato furthermore. "Ta-ko-ya-ki. Make me some." He commanded and didn't wait for her response as they teleported directly in the kitchen. 

"You want me to-?" Yui asked as she pin-pointed at the ingredients and the vessels, spreaded in sequence, in front of her. Ayato nodded as he grabbed a seat at the table up ahead of her, and watched intensely. Without any further argument, the blonde woman started to mix the batter together and chopped the required ingredients, while Ayato only stared at her and her every action like a little kid. Noticing his peering, she chuckled quietly.

“You are a total child, Ayato-kun.” 

This one sentence made Ayato blush. His cheeks painted red 'just because of… some girlish comment?' he thought.

“Che- idiot pancake” 

“Uh-huh and that idiot is making a lot of takoyakis for you”

“You have became bold, huh”

“Who knows?” 

While she continues to cook, Ayato sneaks up behind Yui and wraps his arms around her tiny waist. “A-ayato-kun!?” Blushing almost instantaneously, she calls out his name, and of course Ayato being Ayato, ignores her and orders to continue. After a few silent minutes, except the sound of Yui’s chopping, the red head male grew impatient as he leaned forward to whisper into her ear that he wanted to drink her blood. Before Yui can protest, he continues, “It isn’t because I’m thirsty. I just want you to connect with myself" 

After what he observed yesterday, there was a huge pang in his heart. It felt like he almost lost Yui when he saw her with that Shin guy. This feeling- he doesn't know how to explain. Whenever he sees her, a gust of happiness surges through his heart and reaches his mouth, causing his lips to turn upwards into a small smile. But whenever he sees her with any other guy, even his own brothers, anger takes over him. Is he being possessive? 

"Connect?" Her little voice snapped him out of his daze and the confusion was clearly painted on her face. For a moment, emerald green met sherbet pink as something sparked in those devil eyes of his. Instead of bloodthirst, there was a different kind of desire. This was something unknown to Yui. She didn’t know what was happening anymore, and her head was spinning due to this. Subconsciously, she stepped back from him. Realizing what he just said, he unwraps his arms from her waist and dashes out of the kitchen without a word, leaving the woman, still, in confusion.

Later in his room, Ayato isolates himself in his coffin and tries to sleep but the scenes of what happened in the kitchen between Yui and him and the scenes of Shin and Yui, clearly plays in his mind. Because of this, he curses himself in his mind. The difference was clear. The way she smiled at Shin … she never did that towards him. Even when he gave back her rosary after his mother’s incident with her, she showed a real smile. But only for a moment. Why? Why does it hurt so much? 

‘Ugh! I’m such an idiot. Why would i-?’ 

Ayato repeatedly turns around from right to left and left to right and closes his eyes as a weird knot ties in his stomach. That knot is so tight that it’s painful. The way she is making him feel like this- it’s- it’s-! 

Suddenly his throat starts to burn like a fire is ignited in it. 

He was thirsty. He demanded blood.

No! He wanted blood. Yui’s blood. 

The thirst was unbearable, he couldn’t hold it in him. His mind was going blank as he started to slowly lose his senses.

‘I have to leave. Before I hurt her.’

But all of this suddenly crashes down as someone knocks on the door. Everything was alright until he inhaled the scent of the person. It was Yui herself!

‘Why is she here!? That woman always comes on bad timings!’

As every single minute passed it got worse. The beast inside him is taking over and before he knew it, he harshly pounced over Yui as she opened the door and bit her on her neck. The thirst was uncontrollable. He can’t stop. Yui’s eyes closed as her breath grew shallow and loses herself in darkness.

The sudden sound of lightning and the downpour of the rain, outside the window, jolted him up as he took in the view of his room. Yui wasn’t there, nor any signs of her blood.

‘It was all a dream!?’ Ayato still can’t believe what he saw just now. His burning throat, unbearable thirst, Yui, devouring her blood like a senseless monster … it was all a dream?

Sighing, he got up and opened his door to only be greeted by Takoyakis below and a small letter beside the plate. He bent down to pick them up and locked his door, after entering back inside.

Dear Ayato Kun,

I’m sorry for how I reacted in the kitchen. It was unusual of you, which scared me. That’s why I continued to make your Takoyakis and came to give you. I knocked. One time, two times, three times, but you didn’t open. So, i’m writing this letter because of that but also, i have to go out shopping to buy some groceries as instructed by Reiji-san. I hope you enjoy your meal and calm down soon, then maybe, we could sit and talk again? Not gonna deny, you really are a nice guy, just a little childish? Or maybe too much ego? And also aggressive? But you are still the Ayato-kun, who cares about me.

Yours

Yui.

Ayato’s eyes opened wide as he read her letter. This is the first time someone wrote him such a thing, even if it was from his pancake- it was sweet.

But the boldness of her words by the end of the letter, had him. Che, the boldness. But that’s what made Yui unique. Though there was still one concern lingering in his mind. His dream. What if it turns out real? There are chances of it becoming real, cause’ the burning sensation...never disappeared from the start.

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

Yui’s eyes are lingering at the box of cereal, which stands atop of the shelf. It’s double of her height! And at this moment she felt small and tiny; pondering why she didn’t grow taller than others. Even the shelf in front of her was mocking her for her short height. 

Everyone in this is bullying her at this moment. Weird. Yui sighed to herself as she realised how childish her thoughts were sounding. At this rate anyone would have thought that she has totally gone mental. ‘Ugh! I think I'll go along with the nut cereal in front of me.’ with that she picked up her-not-so-favourite-flavour cereal box and bought it. She stepped outside the place to continue back her journey to Sakamaki mansion but suddenly many drops of rain trickled down, and gradually the pace became faster and stronger with thunder bombarding over. Yui is afraid of the thunderstorms the most and the way the weather is reacting, it’s not a good sign. To shelter herself she ran to the nearest bus stop, but it was already full so she moved forward and found a dense tree. It was at the entrance of the forest and was surrounded by a dark atmosphere. 

She hesitated. A loud strike of thunder above her made her jump in fright and she ran in the direction of the tree. She had no other choice. Whatever happens, she will manage, yes she will. With that thought she hid herself from the storm under the shelter of the dense tree.

Embracing her knees near her chest, she waited for rain to stop, like everyone does but she was getting dizzy as she hadn't eaten anything from the time she woke up. So she fiddled in her grocery bag and took out the box of cereal she bought. ‘This is the only edible thing which i can eat in raw form. Vegetables and fruits need washing.’ She tore the upper seal and opened the silver colored packet before digging inside.

A small yet masculine creature padded it’s way throughout the muddy land as a specific smell caught his nose. It was tempting. It was mindlessly following the scent until reaching its destination. There it saw a woman sitting under the dense tree, to protect herself from the rain, and was eating something to feed herself. Cautiously, it walked towards her and because of darkness she didn’t seem to notice it until reaching a specific distance where she seemed to sense the creature beside her even though she couldn't see it. At least she can sense people or the beast actually thought she is dumb and have no sense of her surroundings. 

Yui stopped her hand in the box as she felt a strange presence beside her. Because of rain it’s movements went unnoticed by her but at some distance she is able to detect her surroundings. She took a deep breath and calmed herself from panicking, that is what she has learnt to do to herself after living with Sakamakis and Mukamis. Because of them she has become wary and also tried her best to not shriek. Even though she is frightened, she is stronger than before...kind of?

As she was lost in her thoughts, the beast made its way towards her until landing his mouth over her...cereal box? She wasn’t mistaken, right? The creature in front of her is none other than a wolf! Well she planned to stay quiet and ignore because a wolf wouldn’t attack her until she have any ill-intentions towards it or well, on second thought she was already prepared to dash if the wolf was wildly hungry and wanted to feed on her but out of all, he sneaked beside her to only, gently, pounce over her cereal box?

It was dark so she couldn't clearly see the wolf’s features carefully but still being careful, she fed it some of her snacks and it hesitated as if she was hurting his pride for offering him in such a way. She kept the snacks back in before pulling the half-remaining packet out and toring a little more at it’s opening to make it big and offered it to the wolf. The wolf hesitated again but gradually gave in and ate the snacks given by her. 

‘Does a wolf eat cereal? That is also nut flavoured?’ She peeked at the animal as her eyes softened when she noticed it’s fur color. At first it was dark so she didn’t notice but it’s pink at a near glance. Baby pink? No strawberry pink? No, it's ginger pink, just like Shin. What’s weird is that the wolf also has an eye-patch like him.

Instead of jumping over her, it came for her cereal box. Is the wolf vegetarian- before she can think any further, the beast stopped and looked up at her. She brought her face back as a sense of déjà vu came into her. The wolf’s eyes were gold! Just like Shin- no it can’t be. Shin is a normal person right? The wolf peered more into her face before curling itself down on her lap. Bewildered, she internally gasped at how soft the fur felt. It was so soothing to her that she accidentally petted it. Her fingers ran through its back to its tail and then its forehead. She gently ruffled its head and massaged it. The wolf beneath her little palm whimpered at her actions as its tail kept wailing from side-to-side, slowly.

Yui wakes up as she feels someone pinching her cheeks. She doesn’t remember when she fell asleep but what she knows is the man in front of her, who is pinching her cheeks is none other than our mr. idol. His smug smile is enough to shoot daggers towards him with her eyes but who is so daring to anger Kou. She, gently maybe, slapped his hands away from her face and looked down. The wolf was no longer there, perhaps it returned back to where it came from. Before her thoughts could go any further, Kou swung a small chibi keychain in front of her. 

"Huh?" 

The thing hanging in front of her was a chibi Kou key chain. "Omg this is so cute. You look so smol and tiny." He was wearing his school uniform and was in a sitting position with baby pink ribbon leaped loosely over his head and his face painted with a cute annoyed expression as his hands gestured towards removing the strip. How cute! Yui was in total awe at this unexpected gift. But… uh if Kou is giving her such an important keyring, he will definitely ask for something in return. She hesitated and as if he read her mind, he sadly sighed at her, pretending to be hurt.

"Seriously M-Neko chan. I won't ask for anything much in return." He unusually smirked at the last sentence and forcefully put his chibi ring in her palm. Yui gulped because she knows that even though he is acting so friendly and didn't ask anything in return, he'll ask later. She knows it. She just knows! 

"Now?" The word came out of her subconsciously but thankfully Kou didn't react in a bad way. Without letting him answer, she continued. "Uh kou-kun. How did you find me-? I mean! Why are you here?" He chuckled at her stammering and gently placed one strand of her disheveled hair, caused by rain to linger around, behind her ear and stroked her face. A warm emotion on his face. It's like he is holding the most delicate girl out of the whole world, in his palm. "Kou-?" "Well I just finished my work and then saw you while walking back home." "Oh, I see- ah! I forgot! It was raining after I came out of the mall so to take shelter I just…" she trailed off and looked down with a sorrowful expression. Rain was not-so her favourite weather and she hid the fact about the pink wolf. But why? She is not sure herself but something in her tells her to keep quiet about it.

"So… I want something in return" as she thought. Kou literally forgot about the words he said moments ago. He bent down his face to Yui's level and looked deep into her eyes as he tilted his face a little and brought his cheeks in front of her. “Here.” “Huh?” Confused by his actions and words she gave him a doubtful face. “Common gimme a wittle kiss on my cheeks, will ya?” He pestered Yui in a baby language as she blushed on how cuter he was becoming as each day passed, in front of her.

Still she didn’t move. 

“Pwetty please?” 

That’s it. 

‘Oh my god! What’s going on with me? First Ayato and now Kou.’ She thought. Her heart was being played by all these handsome vampire men and she is finding it hard when they initiate themselves, cutely, on her.

Without a second thought, she smooched his cheeks as she was unable to hold back in anymore.

The journey ahead is going to be harder than she thought.

[hoffstrap-yuri]

A Small Observation

ao3 // masterlist

*Summary: A warm cup of coffee, a quiet rain, a person's life in her hands. Amanda was John's apprentice after all.

*Rating: E for Everyone

*Content/Tags: Gasshipping (Laura Hunter/Amanda Young), Pre Saw II, WLW Amanda Young, WLW Laura Hunter, Lesbian Amanda Young, Jigsaw Apprentice Amanda Young, Character Study

*Status: Drabble/Complete

Author's Note: A small request for an anon on tumblr looking for sapphic content. While there's not much there, I wanted something that hinted at Amanda pulling the strings earlier on in the game than the movie suggests so here we are! Also I liked finding out that Laura's actress was involved in making her more nuanced behind the scenes. So yeah, enjoy!

“And I will always love you.” The jukebox in the corner of the restaurant croaked out. There was a couple at a booth, and a few people sprawled across the counter seats. The song transitioned to something different and a bit more upbeat when the blonde approached the woman who was sitting alone.

“Anything I can get for you?” She asked with a smile. She flipped to the next page of tabs in her pocket book. The woman hardly looked up from the menu before replying,

“Just a black coffee.”

“I’ll be right back, just let me know if you want anything else.” She hooked the papers back into her apron and walked over to the coffee machine. The brown haired woman at the booth’s eyes shifted focus between the waitress and the raindrops that slid down the glass outside of the restaurant as she waited for her drink. Her head bobbed to the side as she saw a coworker of her waitress place his hand on the small of her back, only to have her squirm away from his touch. She didn’t really listen to what they were talking about, but he walked back to the kitchen soon after that. She came back, carrying a bowl over with creamer in it and dropped the cup off in front of the woman, “I know you said black, but just in case you changed your mind.”

“Thank you.” Her lip curled up at one end and brought the cup up to her face. The waitress turned back around, walking over to the other side of the counter to take another customer’s order. She shook her hand off from the heat under the table and looked at the cup for a second. It gave her mind something to focus on that wasn’t another game to set up, a trap to fix after Mark manhandled it… And her thoughts were drifting again. She took a deep breath and brought the cup back up to her lips when she knew the coffee would still be warm but not scalding. Nothing to write home about, standard restaurant coffee, but it was what she needed. She put one foot on the leather seat and rested against it before flipping through the laminated pieces of the menu for something. She raised a hand in an attempt to garner the blonde’s attention and the waitress walked back over to her.

“Changed your mind?” She smiled at Amanda

“Yeah, I’ll just take a plate of fries. And can I get a new ketchup bottle?”

“Sure, I’ll be back.”

“Thanks…” Amanda’s words trailed off as she realized it didn’t really matter what she said, the other woman was halfway to the expo window. She gazed as the girl talked up another co-worker of hers while waiting for Amanda’s food. Amanda absentmindedly bit her lip as she cocked her head to the side looking over her as she reached up and over the counter. A petite thing like her didn’t belong here. Neither did she deserve the ire of the Jigsaw Killer, watching over her like the grim reaper. Amanda whispered to herself, “Maybe… John was wr…” She couldn’t bare to finish the thought. It would destroy her. He couldn’t be wrong. Jigsaw doesn’t make mistakes. Amanda doesn’t make mistakes. No, underneath that bubbly exterior and smiles there must be something there that John knew she had done to deserve the test to come. He wouldn’t put an innocent into a game. Xavier was a drug dealer, Addison was a prostitute… surely she must have done something. The woman waved a hand at her co-worker and turned around to face the dining area. Amanda’s head moved slowly to face towards the entrance so as to not make it obvious she was surveying. When she thought no one’s eyes were on her, the blonde reached into the tip jar at the counter and plucked a twenty a customer had thrown in there about an hour earlier. Not daring to get greedy, she tucked it in her back pocket before turning to face the kitchen once more as the cook announced that the fries were up. She brought the plate over to Amanda with a smile, tucking her hair behind her ear after placing the food in front of her customer.

“Anything else for you right away?”

“Just some more coffee.” Amanda slid the cup towards her and with a nod she ran back to the machine. Amanda started to pick at the fries so as to give the illusion of eating. Another pass was made at the tip jar, this time pulling a five from the mix before finding its way back onto her person. In another life Amanda could have used someone as skilled in slight of hand as her. Someone that could’ve walked into Homeward Bound without so much as a trace and gotten the methadone for her. Just someone that cared about her and didn't see her as an item like Cecil had… but it was pointless for Amanda to think about now. She knew in her heart that John was right. That she belonged in the next game. She dropped the coffee off and asked about the fries,

“Everything okay?” Amanda nodded before replying,

“Yes.”

“Awesome, just let me know if there’s anything else I can get you” and she left like that. Amanda finished her things and went to the register to pay for her food. The blonde punched a couple buttons on the antiquated register before giving her a total. Amanda pulls out a couple bucks and a few coins before telling her to keep anything extra. “Have a good night!” Her hand brushed along Amanda’s for the briefest of moments as Amanda’s hand slid back into her coat pocket and Amanda’s face turned a soft red, turning away from the other woman. She walked around the block and hopped into her car before driving back to the warehouse. The flood lights were still on, John must be there. She walked in and stood before the man and told him,

“She needs to be tested.”

[voidnoidoid]

Weaktober 2024 (9): Festival

(yes i skipped a few prompts wahhh but ive been busy and i wanted to write for this specific prompt. things may not make logical sense in this one but who cares my fic my rules! also i made up OCs for this)

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

It's that time of year again, the Eunjang School Culture Festival! Now in their final year of high school, the boys wanted to end their senior year on a high note before final exams. As an added bonus, the students successfully petitioned the school admin to get the nasty smelling trees removed. So girls would actually visit! Chorused the guys in class.

As was school festival tradition, every class was responsible for a different booth. There was the usual haunted house, maid cafe (more like butler cafe), caricature stall and more. However, the real highlight this year was the play being put on by the Theatre Club: Cinderella!

(Two weeks before...)

"PLEASE COME ACT FOR US!!!" A student cried out, hands pressed together in a praying gesture. He looked, eyes wide and teary, resembling a puppy as he looked up at a group of students passing by. "Please! We're short on actors because a bunch of us fell sick! I promise we'll make it up to you!"

"Ah... sorry man, I'm not interested." A boy said, looking apologetic.

Jun sighed. He was at the end of his rope. Everything was going smoothly, the props were made, the tech rehearsals were going well, the costumes were coming along; and it all got derailed because Min-oh had to get sick and spread it to almost every main actor! He slumped down on a cafeteria bench, poking at his food.

"Hey dude, you seem down. What's up?" Jun looked up to see none other than Big Ben, the legendary strongest fighter of Eunjang, looking worriedly down at him. Behind him were his usual group of friends, also looking quizzically at him.

"O-oh hey Ben," Jun said, "I- well," His voice trembled.

"Hey man, it's ok. I'll hear you out." Ben took a seat next to him.

"Really? So here's what happened," Jun began explaining the situation.

"So yeah, will you help us out? Pretty please?"

"Hmm..." Ben contemplated, looking behind him. Gray had a neutral expression on his face. Teddy, Alex and Gerard looked uncertain. Rowan looked pretty into it, murmuring something like maybe I could be the prince... and Eugene smiled sympathetically.

"I'll treat you all to dinner! Ttosikki Chicken!" Jun exclaimed.

The boys all perked up at the sound free food. "Hell yeah! We're in!"

----------

Upon hearing the news that Eunjang's top fighters were going to act in a fairy tale play, the tickets sold out like hot cakes. Eugene peered out from behind the curtain, swallowing thickly. He fidgeted with his dress, wiping the sweat from his hands.

"Don't worry, just get out there and have fun! You've memorised all the lines." Gerard said encouragingly.

"B-but what if I mess up?"

"I've struggled with stage fright before, I get it. It's scary. But what helps is imagining yourself as who you want to be. When I'm on stage, I'm not regular ol Gerard, I'm a rockstar. Heh, cheesy I know, but don't knock it til you try it."

"Thanks man." Eugene smiled, looking braver.

"Break a leg." Gerard flashed him a grin.

Everyone took their positions on stage. The stage lights switched on, casting a spotlight center stage. Charming, medieval lutes started playing from the speakers, and Jun, the narrator announced:

"A long time ago, in a land far away, lived a poor girl named Cinderella, born of a noble house but is forced to work as a maid to her evil step mother and step sisters."

The curtains parted, revealing Eugene dressed in a raggedy dress and headscarf, on all fours scrubbing the floor. The deftly painted cardboard props set the scene of a kitchen, dark, dingy and gloomy. Eugene looked up and mimed wiping sweat off his brow.

"Oh Cinderellaaaaaa," came a shrill falsetto voice hollering from stage right. Gerard strutted forth in dramatic smokey eye makeup and dark lipstick, dressed in a long crimson gown and coiffed gray wig. "Hurry up you dim-witted buffoon, we don't have all day!"

"Yes Stepmother." Eugene said, standing and cowering to the side.

"Yeah Cinderella, you still have to get us ready for tonight's ball." A voice said mockingly. Rowan and Teddy pranced on stage, trailing behind the evil Stepmother. Both dressed in pink and green gowns respectively. Rowan's makeup was garish and exaggerated while Teddy's, though dramatic, accentuated his features.

Teddy fanned himself with a lace fan, then pointed it at Eugene. "What are you waiting for, get to it already you useless twerp!" He snapped. He's too into this... Eugene thought.

The evil trio broke out into dramatic villain laughter, "Ohohohohoho!" and scurried off stage. The stagehands swiftly transitioned the props into the next scene, which was of a montage of Eugene performing various chores to Jun's narration.

"Now, with all her chores complete, Cinderella rushes to the front door to catch up with her stepmother and stepsisters, who are about to leave for the ball." Jun narrated.

"Wait for me!" Eugene cried, in a simple pastel pink dress embroidered with flowers. Gerard tossed his head back and sneered,

"And where do you think you're going dressed like that?"

"To the ball? You promised me?"

Teddy and Rowan cackled derisively. "You? Go to the ball? Fat chance!" Rowan jeered.

"Yeah, no way the Prince is gonna notice an uggo like you." Teddy snickered.

"Quiet girls, let's go now or we're going to be late." Gerard said. The trio then swooped off stage, leaving a heartbroken Cinderella to weep in the garden. Somber violins swelled as the garden took shape around Eugene, cardboard trees and plastic flowers filling the stage.

"Oh mother, how I wish you were here." Eugene sighed.

"Don't cry my child, for I have arrived," a voice boomed across the stage. The fairy godmother emerged from behind a tree, a muscular vision in a bedazzled leotard, tutu, tiara and polyester fairy wings. Ben waved his magic wand and curtsied before Eugene. He continued, "I heard your wish, and I have come to grant it."

"Who are you?"

"Well duh, I'm your Fairy God-brother," Ben grinned, proud of his improv. "Now tell me what's wrong."

Cinderella told the Fairy God-Bro his woes, to which the fairy conjured a carriage out of a pumpkin, a horse from a dog and footmen from mice. (Which were toys and cardboard props.)

"And one last thing, every princess needs a pretty dress! Bibbity, boppity, BRO!" Ben exclaimed, waving his wand. The lights flashed and confetti was thrown, scattering down like glittering rain as Eugene twirled around, unclasping hooks and buttons to transform his plain dress into a stunning sky blue number.

"Wow, this is beautiful, thank you so much!" Eugene said. Ben smiled.

"Oh, and two more last things," Ben whipped out a pair of transparent sparkly jelly flats and placed them before Eugene, who slipped them on, then plucked his tiara off his head and put it on Eugene's. "Now you're ready. Be sure to come back before midnight! Or my spell will wear off. Now, GO PARTY!"

---

"Now we shift our attention to the Castle, where His Royal Highness is hosting a birthday bash for his only son, Prince Charming! Who seems rather unimpressed by his romantic prospects." Jun announced.

The silver-haired prince gazed coldly at the revellers before him, twirling and mingling and laughing and drinking. The king sighed and arose from his seat. He wore a golden (spray painted) crown and swooped his cape back from his shoulders. Alex approached Gray and said, "My son, it's your birthday, why do you look so down? No girls catching your eye?" He twirled his fake beard around a finger.

Gray replied, "It's the same thing every year. Nobody really sees me for who I am." He walked downstage and into the crowd, royal blue tailcoat trailing behind him.

Just then, Eugene entered the stage. The ensemble parted for him to make his way center stage, where he bumped into the Prince.

"O-oh, my apologies, I wasn't watching where I was going."

"No worries."

"Hey, this party is pretty cool huh?" said Cinderella.

"Hm. How so?"

"Well, there's good food, great music and... I get to be free. Even if it's just for one night."

"I can sympathise," said the Prince, a faraway look in his lavender eyes, "I too feel, trapped by my circumstances. Perhaps this is a night where I could forget about them, even if just for a moment."

Cinderella smiled.

Gray cleared his throat and offered a hand to Eugene. "May I have this dance?"

The two spun and swayed, performing a choreographed dance number to the music. Eugene's dress sparkled under the stage lights, and Gray's coat gleamed like midnight sapphires. Just then, the clock struck twelve.

"Oh no! I have to go!" Eugene turned and ran off stage, making sure to kick off one of his slippers.

"Wait! I don't even know your name!" Gray called after him to no avail. He picked up the slipper. "But at least I have this."

---

"Cinderella ran all the way home, the spell broken and riches turned to rags. The kingdom was abuzz with the news of the one who captured the Prince's heart, and thus began the search for the Prince's true love."

The stage was set, with the evil stepsisters trying their damndest to stuff their feet into the slipper to extreme degrees of failure. Gerard's face contorted in frustration. "Push harder! Get that foot into the shoe no matter what!"

"I'm trying!" Teddy whined, skirts hiked up, struggling to put the shoe on. The Prince stood off to the side, grimacing.

"Move it! It's my turn!" Rowan shoved Teddy off the stool with a yelp. He could barely fit his toes into the slipper.

Gray sighed, "Looks like this house isn't the one. I'll have to-"

"Wait!" Came a shout from above. Cinderella ran down the stairs and announced, "I have the other slipper!" He produced the matching slipper from a pocket and put it on, marching before the prince. The evil stepmother and sisters were shocked. Gray knelt before Eugene and slipped the shoe on his other foot. It fit perfectly.

Their eyes locked. Gray said, "You're the one I've been searching for all this time. Will you marry me?"

"Yes! I will!"

---

"And with that, they all lived happily ever after. The end!"

The audience broke out in uproarious applause and laughter. The cast held hands and bowed. The curtains closed. Eugene slumped down in a chair and breathed a sigh of relief. Everything went off without a hitch. His friends were sitting around him, taking off their costumes and taking a break.

Later on, the whole crew sat outside at Ttosikki's Chicken and clinked their soda cans together. "To a successful show!" They yelled. Jun thanked them all profusely for saving the production and paid for their food- with the money made off the tickets.

"So hey," one of the stage crew asked, "how'd you guys decide on roles?"

Ben responded through a mouthful of chicken, "Oh, it was random." They all drew straws and landed on their roles at random. Eugene was mortified.

"A shame, I wanted to see Gray as Cinderella," Alex bemoaned, earning a sharp jab from Gray beside him. "Ow! Haha, joking!"

Eugene smiled, it was nerve wracking to be the one in the spotlight when he was so used to fading into the background, but he felt this experience was a great one. As long as he had his friends by his side, he could do anything. And hey, it was nice being the star this time around.

[loveforpreserumsteve]

A Whole New Ballfield: "ALN" Post (Pre-Serum Omega!Steve and Alpha!Bucky Modern Domestic AU)

Nineteen:

"They look like an alien," Cori commented, looking at the 3D ultrasound picture.

"I'm definitely never having kids," Bitsy claimed, face scrunched up in displeasure at the odd photo of her unborn nephew.

"What are you talking about?" Kit asked, taking the picture from their sisters. Crossing the room to where Ollie was sitting, they held the picture up to the pregnant omega, "He looks just like his pops."

"Ha," Ollie deadpanned, snatching the picture from his younger sibling. "So funny. And just for that, you're not godparent."

"Way to go, loser," Leigh-Anne good-humoredly teased, affectionately shoving Kit.

The alpha simply rolled their eyes before wrapping Leigh-Anne into a headlock, rubbing their knuckles along her freshly shaven head. Steve simply rolled his eyes at the display. Increasingly, it was a common sight to behold.

Not even Tony was surprised by the scene as the short omega punched Rhodey's arm, whining, "I thought that I was going to be godfather."

Rubbing at his sore arm, Rhodey loudly scoffed, "What made you think that?"

"I was told that I was," Tony pointed accusingly at his pregnant childhood friend, "Directly from your husband."

"Hey," Ollie was taken aback. Denying that he did such a thing and corrected, "I said that Pepper was godmother."

"And she's my wife, so I would clearly be de facto godfather," Tony argued.

Handing the riled up omega some of Natasha's infamous Grinch mocktail, Pepper assuaged, "We just won't make them godparents to our future children."

"That's not fair," Oliver pouted, marking over his protruding bump.

"Definitely not fair," Rhodey agreed, attempting to appease his mate and his unborn son who started kicking harshly from inside his womb.

Clearly uncomfortable, Ollie huffed and pushed himself from his seat. After Rhodey helped him, Oliver turned so he could give his spouse an appreciative kiss. Then, he pivoted his current core strength and headed for the kitchen where the older adults at the baby shower were hanging out.

"Ya hangin' in there, papa?" Tibby asked, strategically playing her UNO card.

"If I could –" Oliver started, ladling some of the popular Grinch punch into a festive winter themed disposable cup "– I would remove him right here and now."

"Been there," Mandy said, playing a reverse card.

Ivy's wife, Paige, continued the saying, "Done that."

"Three times," Auggie's wife, Tula, added, rearranging her hand of cards, trying to plan her next move.

Steve assured the younger omega, "By the time he's here, you'll miss it."

"Yeah?" The pregnant man asked, taking a drink of the non-alcoholic punch.

Nostalgically, the older guests glanced at their kids. Sure, Auggie and Tula's youngest daughter, Twiggy, was only four. But Steve knew all too well how fast time really flew. After all, it had seemed like just yesterday, Oliver was sleeping on his bladder and causing him pain as he outgrew his petite womb.

Clearing the emotion from his throat, Steve nodded, "Yeah."

"Kinda makes me wish I didn't get my tubes tied," Tula half-joked before calling out, "UNO!"

"Damn it!" Tibby complained, just like every other time they played a game that she wasn't winning at.

A soft grin on his face, Oliver gazed down at his bump, admitting, "I guess it's not so bad."

Steve nodded, agreeing. As the kicking continued, Oliver stretched, shifting his weight, in hopes of getting more comfortable. Meanwhile, Steve extended his hand, but didn't dare touch the omega without permission. Son or not, Steve understood a person's boundaries. Especially from his children.

Huffing out another breath, Ollie conceded. Letting his omega father feel the baby kicking and wiggling about. Steve just couldn't believe that any of this was real. The life that he had planned for himself before he met Bucky never paid close attention to a family. He had been a lonely man who distracted himself enough to never realize just how lonely he was.

The only thing that he'd change about his life was to have it include little Roo's great grandma, Sarah, and his namesake, Aunt Flora. They deserved to be there in person. And it was the only thing that truly broke Steve's heart when he looked at his life.

Beneath his palm, Rory gave him a particularly hard kick, and Steve hoped that that was confirmation. Almost as though Rory was assuring him that Sarah and Flora were with him. Guiding him. Loving him. Making sure that he made it safely to them.

"Thanks, bub," Steve softly told him while gently caressing that spot where Roo's tiny foot remained pressed against Oliver's womb. Seeing how uncomfortable Ollie still was, Steve lifted his other hand so he could cup the younger omega's face and assured, "Just a little bit longer. It'll fly right by."

[eidolonshiva]

How have you been? I hope all is well. Have you been thinking about Fumiko lately? Any headcanons to share? :3

Hi, anon. Thanks for the ask! I work in academia so August/September are always the worst months of the year for me, but I'm hanging in there. My depression always ramps up this time of year.

I'm always rotating my disaster-girl in my head like she was a rotisserie chicken. So I am always happy to share headcannons/little factoids.

Popping under a cut for length.

Modern AU/Academy AU

Serious headcannons:

Although if they were to meet in the canon timeline they would not get along, I feel like Shinobu and Fumiko would be close friends in any other version of their characters. They have similar personalities in the fact that they like to torment people who they feel have wronged either them or those that they are both to. They're could also both talk for hours about how to make poison or medicine. Fumiko is good at reading people and would be one of the few people who would call Shinobu out for putting on a fake personality, making her one of the rare people the petite woman could be her true self around.

I've been thinking of what Fumiko's vice would be in a modern setting in lieu of wisteria poisoning, and I think an equivalent would be prescription opioids. Stealing one of her father's prescription pads and getting a hold of some fake ID's would make access to the drugs an easy task.

A way to tie in her dual personality is that she's usually shy, studious, and timid but she's also a rampant party girl. She'll take any substance offered to her in an attempt to suppress her feelings.

I imagine that the Shabana siblings mother is not in the picture - I can't see any version of her being a good parent. In my AU, the Shabana's live in a run-down studio above the combini Gyutaro works at. After it's eventually condemned, they move in with the Mutō family (Ume sharing a bedroom with Fumiko and Gyutaro sleeping on the couch.) Atsuo, Fumiko's father, welcomes them in warmly but Satoru, her younger brother, is pissed to have new roommates. Ume and Satoru don't get along; Ume is not used to no longer being the youngest sibling and Satoru doesn't trust the Shabanas and feels like they are using his sister.

Gyutaro and Fumiko's firstborn is still an accident. Fumiko's IUD failed due to her heavy drug use.

Fumiko suffers from frequent headaches and has a habit of touching the back of her head where her second mouth is located in her canon version.

Silly headcannons:

At her job at the makeup store, she's had to restrain Inosuke to prevent him from trying to eat the jelly blush more than once.

In the academy, she would be in the cooking club.

Also in the academy, Rengoku would be her homeroom teacher. The two get along because they both love to eat, including sneaking into the Home Economics class where they would have to hide from Haganezuka while pilfering snacks. Imagine the velociraptor in the kitchen scene from Jurassic Park.

Fumiko gets along well with the Hantengu family who are brothers in this instead of clones. She's one of the rare people Zohakuten likes due to Fumiko's "big sister" energy and the fact that he's friends with Satoru.

Fumiko has pretty bad vision and wears contacts. She has glasses that she wears at home, but is embarrassed of them so won't wear them out of the house.

General Factoids/"Taisho Era Secrets"

Fumiko is a pretty good singer, and will often sing or hum little songs while she works.

Although her family ran a Wisteria House, she never fully trusted the Slayer Corps. She found is suspicious how a lot of the members seemed to be children who found themselves in an unfortunate situation. This creeping doubt also made her transition to a demon easier.

Although she comes from a decent family (respectable occupation but average income/house), she never had a betrothal. Her father was a modern-minded man and would never push his daughter into a relationship she did not want. Gyutaro was her first relationship experience.

[mrhomebodii]

How to Have 2 Perfect Days in Portland

So you’ve decided on a quick visit to Portland, Oregon and you wanna make the most of your time, get a full Portland experience, and come back with a pocket full of memories and a gallery full of pictures to look back on. Let me assist you in this exciting venture. I lived in Portland for 2 years (No I'm not an official local but I do think I've got enough intel to advise you on 2 days in the city. Don’t be a hater.) and when I would plan visits before I moved, I was always overwhelmed by the myriad recommendations on sites like Trip Advisor (I still linked their list of activities down below. You’re welcome.)

Anyway, here’s how I would spend 2 days in Portland if I were planning a trip…

When to visit: This is extremely important especially if you consider yourself especially partial to the sun or gloom. Personally, I believe summertime is THE MOST amazing and beautiful time to visit. The whole city is in great spirits, nature is in full bloom, and no activities are off limits due to rain or snow. That being said I recommend planning your trip between late June and early August.

Hotel vs. Airbnb + where to stay: I definitely recommend staying in one of the many airbnb’s listed in Portland. Airbnb is huge in the area and many homeowners have created beautiful stays as it is part of their monthly income. I will include a photo on what part of the city I recommend staying in below. I have had great stays in tiny homes, guest houses, and even in shared spaces! I would recommend however, avoiding basement apartments.

Day 1: Let’s get into the actual activities. I would recommend flying in early, around the time that you can check in to your stay. Contact your host and see how early they are able to take you; the earlier the better.

Day 1 Activities:

Coffee and breakfast at Petite Province Boulangerie and Patisserie

Walk off breakfast at Mt. Tabor park

If you’re into shopping, explore the many shops on Hawthorne Blvd.

Go back to the airbnb to reset, change if necessary, and get ready for lunch

Enjoy many different cuisines in one meal for lunch by visiting one of Portland’s many food truck lots (My favorite food trucks are Demarco’s Sandwhiches, and Jojo’s). Alternatively, great traditional lunch spots I would recommend are Devil’s Dill, and Pizzacato.

Head to Forest Park and hit as many of the activities up there that you can before attractions close. Attractions I highly recommend are The Japanese Friendship Garden, The arboretum, The Lan Su Chinese Garden, and The Pittock Mansion.

Now it’s time to eat again because you’re gonna be hungry after all that activity! Dinner spots I would recommend to end the first day with an bang include Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine and AFURI Ramen.

Day 2 Activities: You’ll want to rent a car for today

Start with coffee from Kind Coffee Cart and breakfast from Pine State Biscuits or City State Diner and Bakery

In your rental car, make your way to Multnomah Falls OR The Trail of 10 Falls (The second is a 10 mile walk but it’s worth every step). If you’re gonna go to the second stop, bring lots of water and snacks!

On your way back into the city, stop by The Columbia River George Scenic Area if you have time (if you’re like me, I would also recommend Collin’s beach… it’s a nude beach.)

Once you get back into town, pick a dinner spot whether that’s a food truck or traditional brick and mortar (I’ll leave this one up to you).

If you’ve got time left in the evening and still have some energy I recommend hitting up Quarterworld for some late night arcade and bar vibes. (Most games require more than one quarter. I’m letting you know so you’re not disappointed like I was.)

That’s it! I plan on revisiting this blog once I learn formatting and integrated links on tumblr to provide more recommendations, photos, and videos of my visit. All in all, Portland is an amazing place and I hope you enjoy your stay!

P.S. Besides the incredible nature and food scene, Portland is also known for having the highest amount of strip clubs per square mile. Just throwing that out there as I have visited my fair share and have always had a ball. That’s just me.

With Care,

Mr. Homebodii

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g52024-Activities-Portland_Oregon.html

[beyondedenton]

First Party Together || Camrien || March, 2023

Cameron: Making friends had never been difficult for Cam, but that didn't stop him from being a little nervous at this particular party. These were Lucien's friends, and Cam wanted at least some of them to like him. He sighed and took another sip of his drink, and when he looked back up he was surprised to see Lucien talking to a woman on the other side of the living room. He watched them curiously, and debated if he wanted to approach and say hello.

Lucien: Lucien had settled on the couch with a woman from his unit. Thea Applewood, known as Apple by everyone, including the werecat. A petite little thing, just tall enough to enlist. The kind of woman that knew she was beautiful; same as everyone around her.

And Lucien took advantage of her flirtatious nature, smiling as she showed off her new swim suit, barely hidden underneath her mesh shirt. Revealing her tan lines. Something to complain about.

Lucien wasn't special. She already had an on-again-off-again in the kitchen getting their drinks. But it was the principle of the matter. Leaning in and laughing with her. Letting his gaze linger just a moment too long to be anything other than blandishment.

And then his gaze found Cameron's, and he grinned from ear-to-ear.

Cameron: The more the two talked, the more Cam wished he'd interrupted sooner. The way the two of them leaned, the laughter, and especially Lucien's smile had Cam bristling in his seat. She was gorgeous, and seeing Lucien's attention directed at her caused a pang of jealousy in Cam's chest. He started to think a little too hard about it until Lucien looked over at him, grinning like the Cheshire cat. Cam's cheeks warmed as he realized Lucien was doing this on purpose, and while deep down Cam knew he could trust Lucien, that didn't stop him from wanting to interrupt their little conversation.

So without much thought, he did, and he approached the pair with a smile on his face that was just a little too sweet.

"Hey, babe," Cam said to announce himself to the two. He didn't wait for a response before he slipped past Apple and into Lucien's lap, draping his arm possessively over his shoulders. Cam went for subtly, this woman wasn't really a threat so he didn't want to make a scene, but to someone who knew him like Lucien it could be seen for what it was.

"Who's this?" Cam turned to Apple expectantly as he leaned back into the other. Physical touch had always been a part of his love languages, but this moment was more about laying his claim than anything else.

Lucien: On purpose, with a non-threatening lesson spanning days of on-again off-again debate. Cameron's reaction was worth the hassle of gossip. For a split second, he almost felt bad for his boyfriend.

But just that split second.

"Well look who's here." A hand came to rest on Cameron's knee. Not too high; couldn't add more fuel to the verbal fire.

"This is Apple. Just got here from Hawaii. Brand new." One more gain in rank, and hanging out with the newbs would be in poor taste. This was what getting older looked like. Disgusting.

"This is Cam, of course." Because Apple already knew the details. She was already holding out her hand.

"I've heard so much about you!" she beamed.

Cameron: Lucien had made his point, and Cam certainly found it annoying. He didn't have much time to dwell on it, as Apple was already offering him her hand. Cam took it with a firm shake and smile, and he glanced at Lucien with a raised brow.

"You have?" Cam asked when he turned back to Apple.

Lucien: "Yeah! Says you're a PE teacher! That was my dream job when I was little!"

"You're still little, girl."

Lucien was given a smack on the chest. Much like with his daughter, he feigned injury, making her giggle.

Their hostess, Rebecca, peeked into the room, returning to her conversation with Miller, holding him at bay from returning to Apple.

"How long are you staying?" she asked Cameron.

Cameron: "I am, and it is pretty great. My students are awesome, and they seem to enjoy my classes." Cam felt himself relaxing a little. "Oh- I'll for sure be staying through summer, I can do my lesson plans from here easy enough. It means more time with Lucien and Leilani, so I'd rather be here as much as I can." He grinned and even managed to give Apple a genuine smile. "Hope ya'll don't mind me sticking around."

Lucien: "We gotta do something sometime. Movie, barbecue, something. I'll see what Trevor's got planned."

Miller had made his intent clear, all but crab walking away from Rebecca and towards the couch.

Lucien smiled up at Miller and slapped hands in greeting.

"Sup, bruh."

"This is Cam. Cam, Miller - uh, Trevor," he corrected. When Cameron was with him, he wanted to leave some habits at the door.

"Sup?" His hand was offered for a vigorous shake.

Cameron: "Sounds like a plan," Cam nodded. This all felt so... domestic in a way Cam wasn't used to. It wasn't bad, just...strange.

"So- should I be calling you Trevor, or Miller?" Cam asked with a laugh, and he shook the offered hand. He shifted the arm around Lucien's shoulders so he could position his hand at the curve between Lucien's shoulder and neck. He slipped a few fingers subtly under the hem of his collar, and his thumb began to trace slow lines alone the back of his neck.

Lucien: Lucien wasn't about to remove Cameron from his lap, but with more people paying attention to them, he was acutely aware of his weight. There was no hiding his sexuality, never had been, but neither had it been so open before tonight.

"Whatever. Everyone 'round here uses Miller. 'Cept, ya know," he gestured to Apple, who was smiling proudly.

"Telling them we should do something together. Movie or whatever."

"We're goin' bowlin' Friday." Miller looked at Lucien expectantly.

"Yeah. Sure. What time?"

"I'll text you. Strange can't make up his damn mind."

Cameron: "I haven't been bowling in years," Cam commented, and his fingers continued their idle trail. Eventually they stilled, content to just be able to touch. He'd never had a problem with displaying his sexuality in front of others, but it did occur to him he should have asked Lucien about what he was comfortable with in front of his friends before this.

"We had this thing in the first town I lived  the bowling alley called it "Cosmic Bowling" - the place turned off the lights, turned on a bunch of black lights, and they played loud, fun music."

He paused.

"Strange?"

Lucien: "That sounds fun," said Apple.

"Strange, like, your host." Miller was always this short with everyone, but could easily be misinterpreted. Apple just smiled and squeezed Miller's hand.

"Robert and Rebecca. We went swimming last weekend. Why bother, you know? They've got a pool."

"Can't go tubing in a pool," Miller said into his drink.

"Come on, I'll introduce ya," said Lucien, lifting Cameron up bridal style, only to bring him back to his feet.

Cameron: "Oh- right," Cam nodded. There were a lot of names to keep track of, but he was going to get it.

Cam blinked as he was lifted, and for a moment his grip tightened on Lucien. He relaxed as he was placed on his feet.

"Perfect, lead the way."

Lucien: Lucien led Cameron not towards the kitchen and Rebecca, but down three steps to the din, where a group of people in their early twenties were watching The Matrix and drinking beer.

"How ya doin'?" Lucien whispered in his ear.

Cameron: Cam shivered at Lucien's voice in his ear.

"I'm fine," he nodded and turned his head toward Lucien so he could speak in a softer voice. "It's a lot of new people. I want your friends to like me, so..." he shrugged.

Lucien: "I know. It's like school. Ya see em enough ya get the names down."

His forehead softly pressed to Cameron's. "Ya wanna dip? We can just say bye t'Strange and his wife."

Cameron: Cam smiled softly at the press of their foreheads, and he slipped his arms around Lucien's waist to pull him a little closer.

"I wouldn't mind getting out of here- but do you think it's too early to leave?"

Lucien: "Maybe give it, I dunno, ten more minutes? They made tacos. We can get somethin' t'eat, say hi, dip out."

Cameron was given a smile. "Where ya wanna go?"

Cameron: "Okay," a small kiss was given in return. He liked tacos, he could handle this. He'd fought far more intimidating things than Lucien's friends at a party. Or so he told himself.

"I wanna go somewhere I can give you shit for for making your point with Apple earlier," Cam grinned and gave Lucien's arm a playful punch.

Lucien: "Oh, so, the point was made? Imagine that, flirtin' with people feels fuckin' weird, don't it? Kinda gettin' in our space, ain't it?"

Cameron was given a soft shove in return, looking rather proud of himself.

Cameron: "Yes! Yes, you were right- is that what you wanted to hear?" he laughed quietly, and he reached over to grab Lucien's wrist and tug him back. "No flirting outside of this," he motioned between the two before giving Lucien a few playful pokes in the side.

Lucien: "Deal." He gave Cameron a squeeze. "I mean, you'll slip. When ya do, I'll find Apple, maybe Tucker or someone kinda pretty." He had to wipe at his mouth to keep from bursting out laughing.

Cameron: There was a mix between a scowl and a pout on Cam's face, and he gave Lucien's side a few more playful jabs. He had a flirtatious personality, he knew it, but he wanted to think he could control himself before crossing a line. "Fine, but they better not be prettier than me," he huffed, trying to stifle his own laugh as well.

"Alright," he gave Lucien's sides a few more playful pokes. "Should we go say hi to our hosts then? Until tacos are ready?"

Lucien: "Prettier than you? First of all, ya think you're pretty? Not hot? And second... look, not everyone can be Paul Rudd. Okay. That's just too hot."

The werecat snorted, pulling Cameron by his waist towards the kitchen to re-introduce Rebecca and Robert.

Robert was out in the backyard fiddling with the fire pit. Rebecca was pleased for a fresh conversation, insisting on a drink in their hands. Hard seltzer? Beer? Their liquor bar had everything under the rainbow.

Cameron: "Fine, than no one sexier than me," Cam laughed and followed Lucien to greet their hosts.

Cam requested a gin and tonic, and he was happy to make himself one to save Rebecca the trouble.

"You have a lovely home," Cam said to her with a small smile, once he had his drink in hand.

Lucien: Oh, Cam gave the magic compliment. One that had Rebecca going into great detail about the purchase of the house, the trouble with the pipes in winter, and the too-small closets. The kitchen was what sold the place, and understandable, given the size.

Lucien was all nods, hums, and quick little questions to keep her story going.

Once again, Cameron was given a squeeze. This was domesticity at its greatest. Was his best friend even accustomed to this, at all?

Cameron: As soon as Rebecca started talking about the house, a bit of tension eased from Cam's shoulders. It seemed like he'd said the right words, and even if he didn't really care about the details of the home, he was happy to see Rebecca enjoy talking about it. He hadn't been lying, it was a lovely home- and she had every right to brag.

Cam returned Lucien's squeeze and gave him a sideways, uncertain smile. He had taken down creatures multiple times his size, saved countless lives, and endured injuries the average human couldn't stand- and yet he felt nervous at a party surrounded by Lucien's friends. It had been ages since he'd dated someone and done something this... normal, and it left him feeing very out of his element. Not that he let Rebecca see that, Cam could still turn on the charm when he needed, but someone who knew him like Lucien would be able to see something was off.

Lucien: Lucien wanted this to be a conversation later, because why not? It deserved to be. Their lives were a masquerade of normalcy. He could only speak for what he knew of Cameron, but his own had been a mishmash of domesticity and long nights in a cage during full moons. Normal was Fera; normal was a mutant by his side. Normal was getting shot at in a foreign country, and the horrors people push upon innocent in the name of some agenda or another. They could stand for a ten minute conversation about four walls and stainless steel countertops.

"Gonna eat with us?" Lucien asked, finding an opening.

"I'm full from taste testing. Go ahead. Mi casa and all that."

Cameron: Cam nodded to Rebecca as he laced his fingers with Lucien's.

"Let's go grab some then! I've been thinking about how good the food smells since we got here," and since Lucien mentioned the food, Cam started to notice he was actually pretty hungry. He tugged Lucien in said direction.

Lucien: There was a conversation brewing between them; at least, Lucien felt one. Best not to mention it now, when they were on a mission.

In the middle of their tacos, they were greeted by their second host. A new conversation, but one less comprehensible; some less-than-mild complaints about work and the new people in their unit.

Once more, Cameron's hand was given a squeeze.

"We don't mean to dine n'ditch, but I only got the babysitter for like thirty more minutes, man."

"Ah, no, I get it. Was awesome y'all stopped by. We gotta talk about campin' again soon."

Cameron was given a firm smack to his shoulder.

Cameron: Cam could feel the conversation brewing as well, but he was too distracted by his hosts and other strangers to think about it too much. He nodded sympathetically to Robert's complaints, and made a few affirming remarks where he could. He squeezed Lucien's hand appreciatively in return, grateful for touch that always seemed to sooth him.

"I haven't been camping in forever, that sounds like it'd be a blast," Cam gave him a thumbs up when his shoulder was smacked and thanked Robert again before tugging Lucien towards the door. "It was nice to meet you all!" he waved to the others in the living room as they passed.

Lucien: A few waved after him, and one new kid from their unit ran over for an obnoxious hug, lifting Lucien off the floor by nearly a foot before dropping him.

Once the door was closed, the werecat sighed, smiling over at Cameron with exasperation.

"Hey, baby."

Cameron: Cam chuckled as Lucien was lifted, he could only imagine his surprise if Lucien tried to do the same to him. It'd be much more effortless.

The mutant closed his eyes and exhaled a sigh of relief as silence followed the closing of the door.

"Hey." He opened his eyes and smiled at Lucien in return. "That was... fun," while Cam sounded a little uncertain, but he did mean it. It was nice to meet people that mattered to Lucien, despite the uncomfortable parts for Cam. "Can we go home now?"

Lucien: Cameron's hand was squeezed, and without ceremony, he was pulled to his chest and kissed. What better way to decompress?

"Yeah. I'll drive." He'd yet to toss those keys his way. Just habit at this point.

"Tacos were pretty good." Just shitty small talk to start to break the ice.

Cameron: The remaining string of tension eased from Cam's shoulders as Lucien pulled him close, and he cupped the werecat's face for a moment as he savored the kiss. Only Lucien' touch relaxed him like this, and finally being alone helped considerably.

"Fine by me," Cam agreed with a grin, and he climbed into the passenger side of the vehicle.

"They were! And all your friends seem like nice people," small talk wasn't his specialty, but it was making him feel a little less awkward. "Thanks for taking me to meet them."

Lucien: It wasn't until Lucien had pulled out onto the street that he offered his hand and squeezed Cameron's fingers.

"Ya okay, baby?" he asked, eyes glued to the road. Was one thing to thank him; he still wanted inside his boyfriend's head.

Cameron: Cam took the offered hand and gave it a grateful squeeze. With one of his love languages being physical touch, even something small, like holding hands, helped him feel more comfortable.

"Yeah, I'm good," he nodded, "I'm just... not used to doing something so normal with someone I'm dating. I've gone to parties recently, but it's been a while since I've been to one with only humans there."

Lucien: "Had to get used to that shit, livin' out here. Get a few things, but this ain't Twilight. I think it's a little more than just humans. I think it's like comin' back from a deployment. Civilian life. Lookin' at what it is you're fightin' for. Seein' you're not a civilian, ya just dress up like one."

Cameron: Cam nodded. He shouldn't assume there wasn't more out here, but it felt different here than it did when he was at work, or in a bigger city. It wasn't bad, just different than what he was used to- being surrounded by other mutants.

"I can understand that," he nodded. He wasn't a part of a the military, so he didn't completely understand what it felt like coming back from deployment, but he could understand the perspective. Looking at what's around you and knowing what, and who you do it all for. Knowing you're different, but you're dressed up as if you're just like everyone else. "I'm glad it's not just me. I don't know if I'll ever get used to it. Do you ever feel that way?"

Lucien: "Seen some shit. I dunno," he shrugged. "I dunno where my shit begins and the military shit kicks in. Like, gettin' locked in a cage every full moon - don't like tight spaces. Seein' kids gettin' used for - always lookin' at clothes, makin' sure people don't..." He breathed deeply.

"This shit keeps me sane. Don't feel weird when we've all been through shit."

Cameron: Cam gently squeezed Lucien's hand as he breathed deep. He felt questions forming on his lips, but something about the way Lucien spoke gave him pause.

"Should I not ask?"  He inquired after a short pause. He could understand normalcy keeping him sane, being around those he loved always helped ground Cam when he needed it.

Lucien: He didn't mind holding hands in this moment. It was Cameron's way of expressing concern and love and he understood, but he shook his head.

"Not right now, but, ya know, later. Promise."

Cameron: Lucien had yet to release his hand since he'd offered his to Cam when they entered the car, and Cam took that as a good sign. He gave Lucien's hand a squeeze.

"Okay," he nodded, "so... how long have you known these people?"

Lucien: "One of em been with me since basic. Deployed with, like, half of em. So yeah, known em for a while. Most of em are alright."

Cameron: "Just alright?"

Lucien: "Yeah. Some are annoyin'. Some are lazy. Good people can still be shitty," he nodded, glancing over with a smile.

Cameron: Cam smiled in return and nodded again in agreement. "They definitely can. Thankfully, some people can change. Although I feel like that's rarer than it is general practice."

Lucien: "Got that fuckin' right." A moment later, "I'd die for half them people," he said. "I think I would. In like, if it was a split-second decision, I think I would. Strange is good people. McMasters. Su. Yeah, even Dodge."

Cameron: "I can understand that," Cam nodded. "I have those people too. Wouldn't think about it, I'd just do it." An intentional squeeze was given to Lucien's hand, but he knew he didn't need to elaborate.

Lucien: "Course ya got people ya wouldn't 'think ya would.'" Cameron was given a humored, pointed look. He didn't want to be misunderstood for a second on the subject.

Cameron: Cam smiled at that.

"Hey, I'm not complaining."

Lucien: "Think ya always been my exception."

Cameron: Cam gave Lucien's hand a squeeze.

"I think you've always been mine."

Lucien: Cameron's hand was blindly brought to his lips and squeezed.

"Thanks for comin' out tonight."

Cameron: "You're welcome, babe," Cam squeezed in return, and his thumb traced small lines along the back of Lucien's hand. "I'm glad you introduced me, " he grinned, "and even more glad to be going home. My social battery is spent."

Lucien: "Had a feelin'," he smiled. "Startin' t'notice when ya look done with shit. Your eyes get all squirrelly."

Cameron: "Very squirrelly," Cam laughed, and he leaned over to give Lucien's neck a playful kiss.

"But now I get you all to myself, and I think you need to take responsibility for my battery draining so I can recharge," he teased, "I think a good, long cuddle with suffice."

Lucien: "Get on over here n'we'll start the cuddlin' now." Lucien was all smiles.

"We never really did this before, huh? S'been this long and we ain't ever had a house party. Or been t'one."

Cameron: Cam smiled softly in return, and he slid across the seat to snuggle up to Lucien's side. Cam didn't want to interfere with his driving, so he placed a gentle hand on  Lucien's high, and head on his shoulder.

"I guess we haven't. How long has it been? We certainly could have our own house party, it might be fun to get everyone together."

Lucien: "How old were we when we met? Our entire life and no house party. Feels weird sayin' out loud. Oh fuck. Babe, are we losers?" He laughed.

Cameron: "I thought you meant since we started dating," Cam laughed. "I think we met when I was 11?   It was shortly after my mom died, so around then. I'm 29 now so... 19 years?" Cam paused a moment to let that sink in. Had it really been that long?

He lifted his head to give Lucien a playful scowl.

"We're not losers! If not having a house party makes us losers, then at least we're losers together," he rested his head back on Lucien's shoulder and paused again.

"Maybe we should have a house party?"

Lucien: "Gotta hide some shit, but I think we can do it. Got that grill out back, you know? Have, like, a barbecue with a shit ton of beer and backyard football or some shit. All American! Vive l’Amérique!" He couldn't help but laugh.

"We've known each other nineteen years? Nineteen? You're almost fuckin' thirty? No."

Cameron: Cam laughed and shook his head slightly.

"Man, that's the most grossly domestic thing I've ever heard of," he teased, but the smile on his face said he was more than happy to do just that.

"Yeah, I'm almost 30. We met...when I was 11ish, so- around 19 years." Saying it out loud felt... strange. Had it really been that long?

Lucien: "Ain't it?" Lucien just laughed. It felt strange years ago, but being in the military had changed him. Helped him grow. He looked forward to the domestic bits now.

"Wow. Babe, are we gettin' old?"

Cameron: "We? How old are you again?" Cam laughed and he elbowed Lucien playfully in the side. While the domestic life still felt foreign, he wanted more of them.

Lucien: "Ya done forgot my age? I'm right behind ya!"

But his conversation skills were coming to a head. They had turned on their road, and already he was weighted by the prospect of sleep in his hammock.

Cameron: "Really? I thought you were a few years younger than me!" Cam laughed, and shook his head. He sighed happily when the house came into view, and he gave Lucien's hand one last squeeze before letting go. "Thanks again for taking me Luce, I'm glad I got to meet your friends."

Lucien: "Babydoll I was born in fuckin' '95."

Home sweet home. Leilani was staying the night with her grandmother. They had the house to themselves for once. He knew exactly what he wanted to happen next.

"So, can I carry ya in?"

Cameron: "Okay- okay- well, I'm '93, so let's just say we're both right," Cam teased, and he tilted his head curiously at Lucien's request. He gestured to himself and winked. "I'm all yours, babe."

Lucien: "We're both right." Easy thing to agree upon. A little relationship lesson, wasn't it? Not making a mountain out of a mole hill.

And besides, his mind was already someplace else, jogging as proud as he pleased to the other side of the truck.

"C'mere, all mine." Cameron was scooped into the werecat's arms with ease.

Cameron: Cam chuckled as Lucien jogged over to him,

It always surprised him, Lucien lifting him with such ease, but he trusted the other not to drop him.

"You like that?" Cam laughed. He leaned his head against Lucien's shoulder and looked up at him with a raised brow. "What's going on in that head?" He reached up to playfully boop Lucien's nose.

Lucien: "Nothin'! Just... wantin' t'romance ya. This romantic?" Lucien laughed, breathy and humbled.

Cameron: "Very much so, consider me romanced," Cam grinned and leaned up to kiss Lucien's cheek.

Lucien: "Got the rest of the night for romance. Some candles. Some music. What ya want, wine?"

Cameron: "I'm here for this," Cam hummed, and a twinge of excitement tightened in Cam's chest. He'd forgotten they had the house to themselves. After a day of socializing, Cam was more than ready for some alone time with Lucien.

"I can drink wine," he nodded and rested his head back on Lucien's shoulder. "I think we still have that one nice bottle we got last week chilling in the fridge."

Lucien: "Ah! We do! I ain't drank it. We neeeed - you pick the music. I think we neeeed t'be shirtless. We neeeed some... what ya think, whipped cream? Caramel? Do we even have candles?"

Lucien had to withhold the urge to kick the front door in. Alas, he had to sit Cameron down long enough to fish out the keys.

Cameron: "How about you pick the music, and I'll find the candles. I think I know where we might have some," Cam suggested as he was set on his feet. He slipped a hand around Lucien's waist to give his hip a squeeze.

Lucien: So this part of the night was going according to plan. Not that it had been an elaborate plan to begin with. An intimate gesture was all he had decided upon, elaborating with every mile to the house.

"My music?" Just needing to double-check. It wasn't all punk rock, but it was easy to forget.

Cameron: "Sure, we can always mix it up if it's not the right mood," Cam flashed Lucien a teasing grin and playfully squeezed his butt. Then he disappeared into the kitchen.

Lucien: Lucien watched Cam disappear around the corner. It was at moments like this that a profound reality hit him like a loving slap to the face. That's my boyfriend, he thought. All this time, all the heartache, for this. This was earned.

And for now, at least, they were alone. Clothes were tossed onto the floor as he made his way to the Bluetooth speaker. Reggaeton began pulsing the surround sound on both floors of the house.

[look-at-the-soul]

Look at the soul- Cillian Murphy (Prologue)

LATS Master list

⚠️ Grief

Pairing Cillian with OC

Summary: At forty four years old, anyone would think you have your life figured out, right? Well, life has some funny -or cruel- ways sometimes… Overnight widowed with two sons at the not-teenagers-anymore, nor-adults-yet phase, Cillian Murphy is forced to start everything all over again. Asking for a sign that it’s the right time to go back into work, he comes across the woman his best friend and screenplay writer and himself had been searching for so long to take the leading role in a play that had been waiting for her as well.

Behind the scenes: This story started as a dream, I literally dreamed one night the end of the play and started from there. Please note I’m not involved in theater 🎭 also, I’ll be adding some songs and lyrics (in italics) I think that fits the story (if you fancy sending some recommendations I’m more than happy to hear!) -Yes, the name is just like my blog… because that’s why I started this, the very first story I wrote, with this play in mind 💖🍀

Suggested song: “Show me the meaning of being lonely” Backstreet Boys (I ♥️ this acoustic version)

“Just leave it, really doesn’t matter.” He asked frustrated after ruining dinner.

“Let me take care of this sweetheart.” His mother ignored his petition and started to fix it.

“Where do you keep the toilet paper? There’s nothing in the bathroom.” His sister asked from the hall.

“I don’t know.” He shuddered. “In the cabinet probably.”

“Already looked there C.” She was trying not to roll her eyes, Cillian just raised his shoulders.

Looking around, he found his other sister picking up the dirty dishes he left over the couch along with the mug he was sure he used last week. Moving everything to the dishwasher, she then walked around the living room picking up the sweatshirt he probably used days ago. Between the cushions, she found a pair of socks and the glass of water he left on Saturday.

The steps of his mother brought him back to reality, she was rushing with the basket full of clothes that she washed, it was perfectly folded now, he moved to the left just in time to avoid a crash.

He was tired both, mentally and physically.

Letting out a loud sigh, he thought about how his mother and sisters showed up half an hour ago, and even though they didn’t say it, their actions were screaming that he was a fucking mess. They offered to prepare the meals for him and his sons daily, showed up on his doorstep unannounced and started to tidy everything up, every single thing that was out of place.

Bringing his thumb and index finger to his eyes, he started to massage them with his fingertips.

He knew they were only trying to help him, but in reality, they were only making him feel stupid and useless.

But he should be used by now, since they had this dynamic going on for a little longer than a year. Since he was widower.

“Will you do the night tales channel?” His younger sister asked.

“I don’t know… eventually I guess.”

“My favorite is when you read poems.” His other sister confessed. “You could do it on your own from your basement.” Cillian shook his head, he preferred to stay as far as possible from the internet. “What? You could even do it anonymously.”

His mum showed up again in the kitchen and without a word, started to organize the receipts, bills and bank statements that he had been accumulating over the kitchen island since the last time they were over. Folding them correctly, she placed them in a drawer.

“Forget about it.” He answered blunty. “Would you mind keeping an eye on them? I need to go out.” He asked meaning about his sons who were upstairs.

The three of them shared a concern look, Cillian wasn’t doing well, he had been answering with monosyllables for over a year, he was distracted, serious

There was no point of staying anyways, there was nothing he could do… they had already taken care of everything, the clothes, the food, the mess in his house, his kids.

He leaned his head against the cold glass of the bus. Visiting the place where they kept the ashes of the woman who once was his wife always left him emotionally shattered. He walked by inertia, following the same path without really paying attention to anything, the tiles on the floor were the same, the lines that marked the limit over the platform hadn’t changed in the last ten years, the sign that showed what to do in the case of a fire that hanged at the E-five station was so worn out that it could barely be read.

Show me the meaning of being lonely

So many words for the broken heart

It's hard to see in a crimson love

So hard to breathe

And just like that, he could make an endless list of the things that after all these years were the same, it was only his life what had changed so drastically.

The thing is, nobody understands the grief you are living unless they went through the same situation. And even that way, everyone goes through it in a different way.

Show me the meaning of being lonely

Is this the feeling I need to walk with?

As for his family, truth is he would be forever grateful for all the help they have been giving him, but it wasn’t fair for them to do all the things he was supposed to be doing. It wasn’t right. But he wasn’t sure of where to start.

Life goes on as it never ends

Eyes of stone observe the trends

They never say forever gaze, if only

His life ironically was a copy paste of the character he played a while ago for a stage play his friend Enda Walsh had adapted from the Max Porter book “Grief is a thing with feathers.” Precisely of a widower man that has two kids while the book tells how the family goes through the grief over loosing his wife and there’s a crow that also takes part of the story.

For example, he had locked in himself. Not sharing with anyone his feelings, fears, let alone his pain. He tried to stay strong and on one piece just for his sons, but honestly, he wasn’t sure of how long he would be able to keep going like that.

He made the decision to cancel all of his projects scheduled to be able to be with his sons. But now he was starting to get desperate of not doing anything. He had a lot of free time and when you go through a loss like that, it’s the last thing you need.

He made a mental note to call his agent once he got back. Perhaps he could start having a look on a couple of projects, see what’s out there… maybe he could start with a small project or return to do the radio shows, record something, anything.

He just needed a signal, something that screamed at him that it was really the right time to go back to work, to focus on himself.

Because when his family left and his sons locked themselves in their rooms, he was left accompanied just by a suffocating loneliness that gave him the warmest welcome and welcomed him with open arms. He had already made peace with it, there was nowhere to go. Just like that, overnight he was left without his partner, the mother of his kids, without a warning, with no time to somehow prepare himself.

Part of his problem was how life slapped him in the face, he felt like he was in the middle of the ocean with nowhere to run. And he also knew he couldn’t keep living like that.

Maybe by returning to doing what he loved the most, he could get back a part of what he had lost.

Adjusting in his seat, he looked at the people that took the bus, they were looking for a place to sit. He suddenly felt a shiver running down his spine, so he rubbed on his arms. Three boys around his sons age walked to the end of the bus, a man wearing a suit and tie was talking using his Bluetooth, a girl with her nose pierced and hot pink hair sat a few rows of him. Followed by a woman with a diaper bag, another bag full of shopping and a baby in her arms.

Behind her, a woman showed up, her dark hair was styled in loose waves, she was wearing white jeans and top with a beige cardigan, but her monochromatic outfit wasn’t what impressed him, but the energy she exuded, she had a genuine kind smile on her lips while her eyes were looking for an empty spot.

He wasn’t religious, but she was the closest he had ever seen to an angel.

“Adria.” He mumbled out of breath and then, he panted.

…She was unstoppable, and she took anything she wanted, with a smile.

***

Next part

A/N: let me know what you think, remember your comments mean the world to me 💖🥰

Outfit inspiration:

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[quixotic-writer]

New Friends, New Safety

Request: Anon

Summary: You found yourself at a party for unknown reasons. You kept to yourself most of the night until you cross paths with a stranger who made you feel welcome. Little did you know that same person would be the savior of the evening as well as his band of friends.

Warning: mentions of assault

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I didn’t quite understand why I was here at this party. I didn’t really even want to be here but I thought maybe that tonight would be different. It was an odd and sporadic decision that I have never really ever made before. But here I was now, and I didn’t want to just walk through the doors and then turn on my heel and disappear. I think that would make people look at me even more and have unnecessary attention on me. But, maybe I'm overthinking it? I don’t know.

But here I am, sitting on some crusty couch with a couple making out to the left of me with no signs of coming up for air, and to the right of me is some dude that decided he had enough for the evening and is snoring to the rhythm of the music blasting. I took another sip of the drink in my hand only to realize that the cup was now empty. I stare at the bottom of my cup and look up to the crowd of people chatting and dancing in front of me. I would have to push and shove my way through if I wanted another drink… With hesitancy, I got up and did just that. 

There was another detail I hated about crowds: my height, or lack thereof really. In comparison to most, I had a smaller build, petite they so politely called it. Honestly, I think I'd rather have someone just say I'm short or small than throw some fancy word to try and make me feel better. 

I found my way to the kitchen which was much quieter and – thankfully – less densely packed. I look amongst the soda options and contemplate which one I'll be drinking now. But, the thought of just leaving crosses my mind again.

“I don’t get why there’s so many options, makes it harder for idiots to get their drinks and clear this place out.” I heard over the muffled music and my own thoughts. I look up and see a guy standing there helping himself to the two liter of sprite. He watched as the carbonation filled his cup and then quickly dissipated, then he looked up to me. 

He was quite eye-catching honestly. Brown eyes that had a sparkle to them, eyes that held the power of someone who just enjoyed fun and conversations. Thick eyebrows framed them but gave them a softer and more inviting look. There was a mole on the crease of nostril where it would meet the base of his nose, and it seemed to disappear slightly when he smiled. He was clean and shaven with black, carefully styled hair. 

“Haha, yeah.” I responded quietly so as not to seem rude and to acknowledge that I heard what he had said. When he finished pouring his serving, he looked at me and slightly raised his brows. He gestures with the bottle in hand, almost as if silently asking if I wanted some. I couldn’t refuse so I held my cup a little closer and he poured me some. For some reason, I couldn’t stop looking back at him. And, it seemed he couldn’t either. “Thank you.” I said once my cup was full and I took a light sip.

“I’m Brian by the way, my friends call me Q though. That was kind of rude of me to not introduce myself.” He chuckles a little. We both linger in the kitchen, away from others and away from the chaos. Something about him felt safe, I could feel it. Nothing in me was telling me to run, hide, or cut the conversation short.

“(Y/N)... That’s my name if you were wondering.” He smiles lightly.

“Sweet… So what brings you to this party?”

“Poor decisions?” I answer honestly and questionably. It got a chuckle out of him and it made me feel some butterflies. 

“My friends brought me here. I’m not always one for the party scene, but I like a little fun once in a while.” Just then, someone else walked into what was temporarily our little personal corner of the world. “Speak of the devil this is my buddy Sal, been friends for a while.” The now named stranger smiles warmly to me and I mirror the same warm smile and nodded as a means of greeting him.

“Q, I was looking for you. Joe has now managed to nose nearly every person here and now he’s dancing like a maniac. You gotta see this.” Sal is practically pulling on Brian’s shirt as a means of coaxing him to see the spectacle that I'm assuming is their other friend.

“Alright, alright Sal, christ. I’ll see you around?” I nod with a smile as he’s already halfway out the door. He smiles back just as wide as he finally disappears around the corner. 

As I sat alone sipping away at my soda all by my lonesome, I contemplated my decisions. I hear the crowd uproaring and I cave into my curiosity to see what this ‘Joe’ character looks like and what has got everyone so up in a tizzy, especially Q’s friend. I find my way back to a packed living room. People built like trees and walls are surrounding the spectacle that has me leaving the comforts of the quiet kitchen. Curse this small body. I tried to jump to see overhead and I could only see in small increments. I grew tired and was tempted to give up until I shuffled around the group and found myself standing tall on the sofa to see over everyone, gaining a perfect view of everything.

There was Joe, now I could put a face to the name. He was putting his heart, soul, and… belly? Into his dancing. No shirt, swinging the piece of clothing around as he kept his little soiree. He truly was dancing like a maniac, but I loved it. 

“Ever see anyone dance like that before?” A random guy stands on the couch next to me to see all that was going on. 

“Never, it’s really entertaining though.” I didn’t want to be rude, so I responded to the stranger’s question as we looked on. Eventually though, I felt the urge to use the bathroom. I felt now was as good a time as any since everyone was distracted and I would be able to easily slip into the bathroom without having to wait around and start doing a little dance myself as I waited. “Odd question, but do you by chance know where the bathroom in this place is?” I asked the guy standing next to me.

“Uuuh, yeah! It’s down the hall, second door to the right.” I nod as thanks and quickly make my way over.

I finished up my business and I'm washing my hands. As the suds fall between my fingers and wash away under the water, I get this tingling in my nerves. I got nervous for some reason, I presumed it to be my body’s way of saying that I was over this whole party scene and it was time to go home. I shrug my shoulders and agree with my psyche and dry my hands.

When I opened the door, the guy that helped me find the bathroom was standing on the other end of the door. He shoved me back into the bathroom and his hands were just… on me.

I tried to scream, but it felt trapped in my throat. I could only get “no” out of me, but I just knew it wasn’t loud enough.

“Shut your fucking mouth.” Was all I heard and it all went blank in my head. I broke out in a cold sweat. My body felt paralyzed, I couldn’t seem to move anything and when I did move, it ached. My mouth was dry and drawing in rapid gulps of breath. The lights in the bathroom felt too bright for my eyes. I could hear my heart pounding.

“Someone… Please…” I whispered out as burning hot tears fell.

The door burst open and before I knew it, the guy was off of me.

“Get your FUCKING hands off of her.” The dude was knocked in the jaw and sent spinning like a top because of the forceful impact and fell to the floor where he got the shit kicked out of him. My senses started coming back to and I could make out who was my savior tonight: Brian. The guy who filled my cup earlier. 

Behind him, stumbling in was his friend Sal.

“Holy shit, nice shot Q… Fuck, there she is.” My skin felt cold as Sal tip toed carefully around Q and made his way to me.

“(Y/N), here.” He quickly removed his jacket and wrapped it around me and helped to guide me out of the bathroom. “Q we better dip before he comes to and starts some scrappy doo act and then we get in trouble.” Q quickly stopped his tirade.

“You better keep your fucking ass down there dipshit. I see your face again or you try anything funny and it’s only gonna come back but it’ll be four times as bad.” Four times? I’d expected twice, but four was oddly specific… The guy whined and groaned as we escaped the bathroom. I found myself sandwiched between the two, Q in front of me and Sal behind me guarding me as we made our way out of here.

We pushed through the crowd of people, it felt somewhat suffocating and everything sounded too loud. It was all so overstimulating.

“Joe! Murr! Let’s go!” Sal bellowed behind him.

The boys sat me on the porch of the house. I was formally introduced to Joe and met another companion of theirs: Murr. All of them were absolute sweethearts. Joe helped to make me laugh, Murr brought me some water, Sal was a comforter and soothed me, and Q stood guard and helped soothe me as well with kind affirming words. They worked well together and created a dynamic that helped bring me down from the bout of severe anxiety that consumed me earlier.

“Is there anything else you need? Have you eaten? Do you need any more water?” Murr asked. They all leaned in waiting for a response, ready to take off and grab whatever it was that I needed. I softly laughed,

“No, I'm okay, really. Just grateful you all were there to be my rescue team.” 

“I can’t stand that shit. You never lay your hands on anyone like that.” Q crossed his arms over his chest as he huffed. I could see him getting worked up all over again.

“Well I sure hope that dipshit learned his lesson after the beatdown you gave him.” Sal says as he remembers the state Q left that guy in after we left the bathroom. The boys all mutter in agreement.

“Yeah. I don’t mean to be rude or anything guys, but i’m really fucking tired after all that shit. I think I'll be staying away from parties… permanently.” I get up on my feet.

“Let one of us take you back home please. Do you have a dorm, apartment, something nearby?” Q quickly jumped up. His eyes were filled with absolute worry.

“Actually, yeah, could you walk me home please Q? My dorm is a few blocks away.” I say with my cheeks rising in heat. Q smiled and wrapped his hand around my shoulder.

“Well then, m’lady, shall we leave?” “Wait, before you two head off.” The three other guys had passed around an old receipt and a pen. Each of them quickly scribbled on it and Joe handed it off to me as soon as he was done with his final addition to it.

“This has all of our numbers on it should you need any kind of help or support. Need us to walk you somewhere, give us a call. Need someone’s lights knocked out? Call only Q for that.” I giggled at the last addition as I looked at the paper. I studied each of their writing styles and it suited each of them so well and was so telling of their personalities.

“Do not hesitate at all. We’ll be around,” Murr says with hands in his pockets and a small smile on his face.

With that, the receipt was placed in my pocket and I had a protector there to walk me to where I was going. I was grateful that someone had their eye out for me and had my safety in mind. I was especially grateful for Q. He stepped up and was quick to run to my defense. I don’t even want to think of what would have happened if he wasn’t there.

“Thank you.” I said softly.

“Don’t thank me. I was just doing what anyone should have done. He looked shady and I had a bad feeling when he followed you to the bathroom.” I couldn’t quite read his face. Was it worry? Anger? Fear? Relief? I’m not sure. One thing was for certain though: his face shone with a genuine glow of honesty and care. All of them did. 

I made 4 new friends tonight in an unimaginable way. Because of that, the night time feels four times safer. It feels especially safe when Q decides to spend the night with me. His arms gently enveloping my frame, holding me close.