#i'm happy with finishing 2 prompts so last minute but like...

[comfortlesshurt]

my favorite game: is this detail original or am i channeling a favorite fic here?

anyway, here's a link since i gotta go reread anyway to confirm i'm not being a filthy word thief! i adore this oneshot

[homestylehughes]

4 times luke wanted to kiss you and the 1 time he did.

pairing(s): luke hughes x fem!reader

summary: 4 times luke wanted to kiss you and the 1 time he did.

warning(s): absolutely none. pure sweet fluff.

wc: 2.1k

an: hi loves!!! back with another Luke fic...are we surprised? I'm a big fan of this little prompt, I was stuck between writing this for 3 different players, so I had google pick a number between 1-3 and 3 was Luke so here we are!! I love writing for luke, especially, cute and soft luke. more coming very soon!! I hope you guys enjoyed, like and reblog if you do! much love as always.

happy reading <3

1.

The first time Luke saw you, he thought he had experienced love at first sight. He was running late to practice, waking up only 5 minutes before he had to be there. quickly throwing on random clothes, slipping on his shoes and running out of his dorm at lightning speed. 

Not paying attention to his surroundings, his only focus was getting to practice on time to avoid having to do extra drills on the ice, given to him by his coach. Just as Luke turns the corner, he feels something or another person slam against his chest. Quickly pulling back to see the prettiest girl he's ever seen on the ground, with her books surrounding her. 

“Oh my gosh. I'm so so sorry '' Luke gushes out to the nameless girl in front of him. Quickly reaching down to help her grab her books. 

“Its okay, i should have watched where i was going” she says softly

“No it was completely my fault, I was in a rush, '' Luke says, offering a hand to help pull the girl from the ground.

“Oh, thank you” she says smiling as he takes his offering hand. Getting up, she brushes herself off before looking up at Luke, who's holding her books tightly in his hands. The pair staring at each other before Luke clears his throat, suddenly remembering he has a practice to get to, that's definitely late for now.

“Here's your books” he says handing her the stack, “again I'm so sorry for crashing into you” he finishes. 

“It's okay, things happen. No worries” she says, pushing a piece of hair behind her ears as she looks up at him.

“I'm really sorry to cut this short, but I have to go to practice, which I'm already late for..” he says, Luke's voice trailing off in embarrassment. 

“Oh! Of course! You better run” she giggles out 

“I'll see you around!” he shouts out as he begins to jog away from her. 

“My name's y/n!” he hears her shout from behind him 

“Luke!” he yells back to her, turning around quickly to find her standing there with a smile on her face, sending her one last wave. 

Luke couldn't help but have the same smile on his face as he ran the rest of the way to practice.

 Not caring about the ear full he was going to get from his teammates, and coach, or the drills he was going to have to do after practice. The only thing on his mind was you. wanting to know more about you, and maybe, but maybe how it felt to kiss you. 

2. 

Ever since Luke ran into you, 5 months ago, it's like gravity had forced you two together. Luke immediately looked you up on instagram the same night, following you instantly, hoping he'd have the chance to talk to you again. 

It seemed like god heard his wish, because now here is he with you in a spirit halloween as you guys try and find matching costumes for a halloween party, that you two had gotten invited to last minute.  

“Luke, what about this one?” you ask, holding up an adult sized mario costume. 

“Absolutely not” 

“Why not?? I think this fits you” you say giggling 

“WAIT. I have a better option.” turning around on your heel, picking up another costume, “Luke you are sooooo luigi” she says laughing

“Why do you hate me?” he says, rubbing his hands over his face. 

“I do not! Stop being dramatic” yn sighs, “you've hated every option I've shown to you, this is the best option we have so far. If you don't want to go, just say so” 

The sound of your tone, towards the last part of the sentence is enough to make luke lift his head up in confusion. 

“Woah woah. I never said I didn't want to go, I'm sorry if I ever made you feel like that” he says, his hand finding your arm pulling it slightly, so you look up at him. 

“I'll love and wear anything you choose for me. Hell, I'll even wear a paper bag, if that makes you happy” he says, looking into your eyes. 

“Really?” 

“Yes really, now let's be the best mario and luigi the worlds ever seen” 

A smile spreads over your face, as you register his words, Luke can't help but get lost in your eyes, the plump of your lips, taking in every part of you, as you look up at him. 

Not caring if you were in the middle of an aisle in spirit halloween, in that moment luke really wanted to kiss you. 

3. 

Luke's hands couldn't help but shake as he sat on the couch with his brothers, today was the day. A day that could change his life for forever, the NHL draft. Everything he’s done, all of the blood sweat and tears he put into the sport, that he considered his life. it all came down to, today. 

The pressure of following in his brother's footsteps, wanting to be as good, even better than them. to play at the same level as them, had always been a goal of his. Now that he’s finally here, he can't help but be scared of what's to come. 

The lights and cameras are making it harder for him to calm his nerves, he knows he’ll get drafted, he knows he's good at what he does, but is he good enough for the NHL? 

His heart starts to beat even faster as the devils are about to select their pick for the draft, it would be a dream come through to be able to play with one his brothers. When they call his name, Luke can't help but be in complete shock. His family, and friends are all cheering and yelling around him. He can feel Jack jumping beside him yelling in his ear, as he stands up. Hugging his family, cheering with his friends. 

Turning around he sees you standing with his friends, cheering and clapping for him, seeing a few tears fall down your face, looking at him with the biggest smile on your face. Luke begins making his way to you, weaving through the crowd of people that separate you two. 

When he finally reaches you, your arms instantly wrap around him, his arms finding your waist as he pulls you off your feet, spinning you around before sitting back down you. 

“I'm so so proud of you luke” you say with a wide smile on your face

“I wouldn't have been able to do it without you, thank you for standing by my side” 

“There's no one else I'd rather cheer for than you,” you say, running your hand across his cheek. Luke couldn't help but feel a rush of heat spread through his body, as you touched his face. Wanting nothing more than to pull you into him, because he really really wanted to kiss you. 

4. 

With the hockey season coming to an end for the devils, after a rough year, luke wanted nothing more than to be in michigan away from all things hockey. Most importantly he wanted to be around you, only seeing you about 5 times a year was taking a toll on him. He missed you more than he’d admit, so when he had asked you to come to the lake house for two weeks during the summer, it was an offer she couldn't turn down. 

Pulling up the Hughes lake house was like a dream come true. The bright sun hitting yn’s skin, taking in the smell of the lake and the view around her, the summer breeze blowing on her face. As yn makes her way to the trunk of her car, she hears the front door open, turning around to see Luke running towards her with a smile on his face. Pulling her into a bone crushing hug as soon as he reaches her, your body feeling like home against his. 

“I cant believe youre actually here” luke says looking down at her

“Well you invited me, of course I'd be here. I wouldn't trade it for the world.” 

“I missed you so much” he says softly leaning down loser to her face

“I missed you more luke” yn counters, their faces are so close together that luke can feel yn breath fanning his face, from each breath she takes. 

Just as he's about to connect their lips together, he can hear Quinn and Jack run out the door, interrupting their almost kiss. Luke pulled away quickly, before his brothers could see. 

“LOOK WHO IT IS '' Jack shouts to yn, before jogging over bringing her into a hug. 

“So glad you're finally here, moosey here has been whining about how much he missed you.” Quinn teases him, wrapping his arm around yn’s neck pulling her towards the house, as both him and Jack begin to talk her ear off. 

“Hey! That's not fair you're taking my guest away from me "Luke shouts to him, a slight pout paints his lips and he watches them walk away with you.

“Oh suck it up lover boy, you'll see her everyday for two weeks straight.'' Jack quips at him as they head into the house. 

Luke lets out a loud sigh in response, turning around to grab her bags out of the car. Thinking only a few minutes ago, you guys were so close, so close. Luke really wants to kiss you, and he doesn't know much longer he can go without it. 

1+

Luke thinks he's going crazy, being around you for a little over a week during the heat of summer, seeing you walk around and tiniest swimsuits, and barely any actual clothing, was beginning to play tricks on his mind, or maybe it was the heat he couldn't tell. But what he did know was it was getting harder and harder each day to not pull your lips against his. 

Everyone always seemed to be in the way of Luke getting you alone, so he can tell you how he feels. Whether it was his brothers, his friends or family, something always got in his way, and he's had enough of it. 

“Luke, do you wanna go on a walk?” yn asks standing in the doorway of the kitchen as luke grabs a bottle of water from the fridge

“Yeah of course, let me grab my shoes” he says smiling at her

Turning around, Luke makes his way to the front door, slipping on a pair of beat air forces, “ready?” he calls to yn. 

“I am” she says, trailing behind him as he heads out the door. 

They walk in silence for a few moments, before Luke breaks the silence that surrounds him, “is everything okay?” he asks 

“Yes everything is fine, I just wanted to be around you alone. I feel like I've seen you, but not at the same time?” 

“I definitely get that, I just want you all to myself.” luke responds 

“You must really like me huh?” 

“More than you even know” Luke says before he can catch himself, his words causing her to stop dead in her tracks, turning to look at him.

“What do you mean” yn asks 

“I-i like you” luke quickly says 

“I like you too luke” 

“No yn, I mean I like you, I love you. I've loved you for the past 2 years, ever since I ran into you. You know the first thing i thought when i saw you was gosh this girl is so beautiful. I was so tempted to skip practice, just to talk to you more. I'm sorry it's taken me so long to admit that you '' he finishes, yn’s eyes wide as she looks at him. 

Luke can feel his heart almost beating out of his chest as he waits for her response. 

“What do you want to do right now?” she asks 

“What?” luke asks confused by her question 

“What do you want to do right now luke.” she asks again, her eyes still locked with his 

“I'd really like to kiss you” he says slowly

“What's stopping you?” she says, with a small smile on her face

Luke wastes no time leaning down and connecting their lips together, her lips are warm against his, as they move together. His hands are on her hips, pulling her closer to him, as their lips continue to move together as one. Pulling back, Luke rests his forehead against hers as they catch the beaches looking at each other. 

“I love you” yn says softly, luke cant help but smile at her words, before connecting their lips back together again. 

Because all that luke hughes wanted to was kiss the girl that he was in love with, and this time he was. 

[joeybluvs]

Lover: Chapter II

Authors Note: Hi guys this is chapter two to Lover if you didn't already go read the first part if you want 💗.

Warnings: fluff, LSU Joe, Smut, Spitting into mouth, I can't think of anything else.

Word Count: 1.9k

The Next Morning:

Joe wakes up the next morning, he checks his phone and receives a text from you.

He reads the text, good morning Joe...face time?, the text reads.

Joe's heart skips a beat as he sees your message, good morning , he text back with a grin on his face, face time sounds great, he text you before he taps the face time call button and awaits your answer, his excitement growing to see you with each passing second.

You answer, when you answer you are in your small bathroom in your dorm room curling your hair. "Heyyy", you say with excitement.

"Hey", he says with a warm smile. "You look beautiful this morning", he takes in the sight of you curling your hair, his gaze lingering on your beautiful face.

"You don't look half bad yourself", you say with a smile.

He laughs slightly, running his hand through his hair. "So, what are your plans for today."

"Hold that thought do you mind giving an opinion on an outfit." you smile.

"Sure," he says with a grin. "I'd be happy to help". He waits patiently as you go through your outfit choices, offering suggestions and compliments when prompted.

"So I was thinking either this blue flowy crop top with light blue ripped jeans or this orange crop top and dark blue ripped jeans".

"I think both outfits would look amazing on you, but since I have to choose...I think the blue crop top and the light blue jeans they just seem to compliment your hair better." He says with a big smile on his face.

"Aw thank you so much for helping Joey." you say.

"No problem," he says with a smile.

"What time is your practice at today," you say.

"Practice starts at 2 PM...I could pick you up after if you would like."

"How about you pick me up after practice and then we could go on our first date," you say with a smile.

"That sounds perfect," he says with a grin. "I'll see you after practice then." He gives you one last smile before hanging up the phone and heading to start getting ready himself.

After practice

As the practice draws to a close and he showers, Joe's heart beats just slightly faster with anticipation due to the excitement of going on a date with you.

He gets into his car and gets a text from you that reads, I am at this restaurant downtown i'll send you the location if you wanna meet here.

Sure, he replies.

He gets the location and text you that he will be there shortly.

15 minutes later

Joe arrives at the restaurant. He steps out of his car and fixes his shirt before stepping into the restaurant. He scans the restaurant searching for her familiar face.

You see him looking for you and do a small wave at him trying to catch his attention.

Spotting you waving at him, he walks confidently over to the table trying not to let his nerves show. As he approaches he says. "You look beautiful."

"Aw, thank you." you say blushing.

"So Joe...I was wondering if this date goes well if maybe you would like to be my boyfriend.' You pause before continuing. "I know it is a little soon but you seem really sweet Joe."

Joe's heart skips a beat at her question and he looks into her eyes searching for any signs of hesitation or doubt. Finding none, he smiles and leans in a bit closer to you. "We could give it a try I would love to be able to call you my girlfriend." He says with a smile on his face.

"You're beautiful," Joe whispers softly.

"Joe...you are so sweet," You say back to him.

"I'm just being honest," he replies with a smile. "I mean every word I say to you," He gently rubs her hand which is sitting on the table.

You guys finish up diner doing typical first date things like learning more about each other.

After Diner

"So do you maybe wanna meet up at my dorm. My roommate still hasn't gotten here yet so it is only me currently," You say.

"Of course," Joe respondes with a smile. "I'd like that very much." He takes her hand in his and squeezes it lightly as they head out of the restaurant and head to their respective cars.

"Alright bye be careful, just follow me okay," You say getting in her car.

At her dorm

They both enter your dorm "You can spend the night if you want since my roommate isn't here yet," You say with a soft smile.

The offer catches him off guard but in a good way. His heart pounds in excitement at the possibility of spending the night together. "That would be great," he manages to say, trying to calm his nerves. "Thank you."

"No problem," You say in response.

As they settle into the room, their connection growing stronger with every passing moment. They talk about their day, share laughs and secrets, and eventually find themselves lost in each other's eyes once more. (Authors note: sorry that was probably cringey)

"Is it alright if I kiss you," You say softly.

He nods yes and you lean in and start kissing him which quickly turns into a make out session.

As they tangle together in a heated embrace, Joe can feel himself losing control. His heart beats rapidly against his chest, every fiber of his being yearning for more. He deepens the kiss, losing himself in the sensation of her lips against his own.

As the passionate kiss intensifies, Joe's mind drifts back to the previous night. The memory of your moans and gasps echo in his ears, fueling his desire even further.

Feeling your body pressed against his, Joe's hands wander up her back and into your hair. He pulls away slightly to catch his breath but doesn't break their connection. His eyes search yours for any sign of hesitation or doubt before he leans in once more, hungry for more.

"I can tell you want something more Joe," You say smirking.

Joe's heart skips a beat at her words. "You have no idea," he whispers back, his voice barely above a whisper. He deepens their kiss once more, his tongue dancing with hers in a slow, sensual rhythm that sends shivers down his spine.

"Tell me what you want," You say seductively.

Breaking the kiss, Joe looks deeply into her eyes. His heart is pounding in his chest, and he can feel his blood pulsing through his veins. "I want you," he says softly, his voice filled with raw emotion. "I want you so fucking bad."

Hearing his confession, yourr eyes widen slightly before you lean in and kisses him again. This time, it's different—more intense than before. Their tongues dance together as they explore each other's mouths with newfound passion and desire.

"Do you wanna have sex?" You ask seductively.

As their kiss breaks once more, Joe looks deeply into her eyes. "Yes," he whispers back, his voice trembling slightly with anticipation. "I want to make love to you."

You both quickly strip down to being naked.

His heart is racing now, and he can feel himself growing hard with anticipation. He reaches out to touch you, running his fingers lightly over your stomach before trailing lower down her body.

You let out a low moan at his touch.

Feeling you moan beneath his touch, Joe's control begins to slip further. He kisses you deeply again, your tongues tangling together in a heated dance as he continues his exploration. His hands slide up her thighs, feeling the smooth skin beneath his fingertips.

"I can't wait any longer Joe." You say softly.

With one final look into her eyes, Joe gives in to the passion that's been building between you guys. He slides inside of you, feeling your tightness engulf him.

"Oh fuck," you moan so loudly that your neighbors could probably hear you but you don't care.

As he begins to move inside you, Joe's world narrows down to the feeling of their bodies connecting. He groans softly against yourr lips, his eyes closed tightly as he tries to maintain control.

With each thrust, Joe hits a new spot inside you that sends shivers down his spine. He picks up the pace, losing himself in the rhythm of their lovemaking. His hands move to grasp your hips tightly, pulling you closer as he drives deeper into you.

As yourr bodies collide, Joe's breathing becomes ragged. He can feel the heat building between them, and he knows you guys are getting close. With one final push, he buries himself inside her, feeling her walls clench around him.

"Faster," you moan loudly.

Feeling the urgency in your voice, Joe picks up the pace even more. His movements become erratic as he tries to find that perfect spot inside you again and again. Sweat begins to bead on his forehead as he loses himself in their passionate union once more.

You stick out your tongue insinuating that you want him to spit in your mouth.

His eyes widen slightly at this unexpected request but without hesitation, he complies, spitting into your mouth. It's messy and taboo, but he can feel the desire burning in both of them, and he can't resist giving in to it.

You swallow his spit while looking into his eyes.

"I am gonna cum Joe!" You moan loudly.

Joe's thrusts become even faster and deeper. He wants to feel your orgasm as much as he wants to releaseas well. "Cum for me," he groans, his voice hoarse with desire.

You release around his cock "Are you close, if you are let me suck you I want to taste your cum." You say breathlessly.

Feeling your walls tighten around him, Joe knows he's close. "Yes," he pants, his body trembling with the effort to hold back. He pulls out of her and you get on your knees and starts taking him in your mouth.

"Come on Joe cum in my mouth." You say between sucks.

Joe's hips buck as he releases inside your mouth, filling it with his hot seed. The sensation of yourr warmth and the suction around his cock send him spiraling into bliss. "Fuck, that feels good,"

You swallow every last drop of his cum while starting into his eyes.

As he feels his climax begin to subside, Joe looks down at you with a mix of pride and satisfaction. You both collapse onto the, their sweaty bodies pressed together as they catch their breath.

You kiss his forehead sweetly.

"That was...damn," he pants, a slight blush creeping onto his cheeks. He nuzzles his face against yours, their hearts still pounding in unison.

You kiss him on the lips. "You are amazing Joe." You say smiling.

Joe blushes even deeper at her praise, his heart swelling with love. He returns the kiss, his mouth warm and tender against hers. They lie there in each other's arms, basking in the afterglow of their shared passion.

"So are you staying overnight." You ask softly.

"If that's alright with you," he murmurs sleepily against your skin. He nuzzles closer, already feeling the comfort of your embrace seeping into his bones.

"Oh it is definitely alright." You say as you move to lay onto his chest.

Smiling softly, Joe drifts off to sleep with your warmth surrounding him.

Authors note: I am sorry if this is bad (which it probably is) I wrote this at like 3 in the morning but I hope you like it 🥰🥰

[arc852]

10. Alien

Definition: a creature from outer space; extraterrestrial.

Summary: Jimmy has been abducted by aliens, who he has learned are at least a hundred feet bigger than any human on earth. He's been trapped in a cage and he can't even ask why. Forced to sit and wait, anxiety building over time about what was going to happen to him. But one day, a couple weeks later, the alien forgets to lock his cage after feeding him.

Jimmy takes the chance to run.

G/t: Jimmy is normal-sized, Tango is a giant

Warnings: Keeping someone in a cage, abduction, mentions of dissection, mentions of death, and fear.

Word Count: 3140

AO3 Link

Okay, I gotta say, I love alien aus. Especially in G/t. It's one of my favorite tropes and I'm happy that it ended up being one of the prompts in this list!

Two things about this particular story, I actually just finished this one up today. It was from the batch of 10 fics I still needed to finish, so it was a bit last minute but I still made it! And I'm pretty happy with it, all things considered.

Also, this au has been in my head for months. It was my go to daydream scenario for a while there if I'm being honest. So it was nice to finally get something written down for it. I may even write more in this universe later on!

Oh, and because there is a language barrier, I used runes and galactic for when either Jimmy or Tango are speaking in the other person's POV. It's not a lot but there will be the translations for those at the end of the chapter.

With that said, I hope you guys enjoy!

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

 Jimmy backed away as far as the cage would allow him as his captor came towards him, a small plate of food and a small bowl of water in hand. The giant set the plate of food down on the table so he could use his hand to unlock the cage and open the door. Jimmy couldn’t help it as he shook in fear, wondering if this was when he would be grabbed and taken out of the cage.

 But it wasn’t. The alien simply placed the food and water in his cage and then closed it back up. Jimmy looked down at the food before looking up briefly at the giant. He quickly turned his gaze away when he noticed the guy yawning. That was not something you wanted to see when you were small enough to fit in that mouth.

 The alien turned and walked away and Jimmy was left alone again. Well, as alone as he could get with the alien only being on the other side of the room. But it was a big room, so he considered himself alone.

 Jimmy finally scooted forward, taking a bit of food and taking a bite. This routine of theirs had been going on for what felt like weeks now, at least. Jimmy didn’t really have a good concept of time here but based on how often he ate, again, it had to be at least 2 weeks being trapped here.

 He still couldn’t believe he had been abducted by an alien. He didn’t even think they were real. But not only were they real but they were massive. His captor had to be over a 100 feet tall in comparison to humans. 

 The strangest thing was, the alien could almost pass for human if not for some stand out features. The size, of course, but also the alien had red eyes and even darker red pupils. The most notable thing, however, was his hair. Flames licked the sides and top, a constant movement. Fire and red seemed to be this guy's whole thing.

 They couldn’t even communicate. There was a language barrier between the two of them, where neither could understand the other. Jimmy wanted nothing more than to ask why he had been taken. He had only been out in the woods on a camping trip with his brother and friends and decided to go for a walk by himself.

 The next thing he knew, a large ship had landed and the giant alien had taken one look at him and grabbed him.

 Jimmy shivered, still remembering the feeling of the larger than life hand wrapped around his entire person. He was put in this cage and since then he’s just been…waiting. For what, he’s not sure. But everyday his nerves get more and more tense with anxiety. The alien hasn’t taken him out of the cage yet but he has tried to speak with him. At least, Jimmy thinks he has. It was hard to tell when he couldn’t understand what the giant was saying. 

 The thing that made Jimmy the most nervous was that, looking at all the stuff around, the alien had to be some sort of scientist. And scientists, especially alien scientists, usually dissected things they wanted to learn more about. At least, that’s what movies had told him. But he could be wrong.

 He really hoped he was wrong.

 Jimmy sighed and took a sip of water. The first few days he had refused to eat or drink anything he was given but eventually he had gotten so hungry and thirsty that he had given in. Thankfully, nothing was up with it and so Jimmy continued to consume what he’s been given.

 Jimmy stood up and stretched after he was done eating and then began his walk around the cage. It was one of the only things he could do in here and he figured he should try and keep himself in shape, just in case. 

 As he passed by the door of the cage, he put a bit of weight on it, jumping back as he saw it swing open just a bit. His eyes widened as he stared at the slightly ajar door. The alien hadn’t locked the door this time.

 Jimmy didn’t even think twice about it, he slipped past the door and onto the desk, finally free of the cage. He glanced around, desperate to get away. He noticed the alien, still on the other side of the room. He seemed engrossed in his computer-like screen. Jimmy hoped that meant he wouldn’t look over here.

 He went to the edge of the table and looked down. He got dizzy just looking at how far it went but he couldn’t give up here. He noticed a cord going from a machine down to the floor and ran over to it. He yanked it slightly to test it but it didn’t move at all under his weight. He took in a deep breath and scaled down the cord. When he finally reached the floor, he scurried off. His goal only to get as far away from the alien as possible and find a way out of here.

  ***

   Tango rubbed a hand down his face and yawned into his hand once again. He was so tired, having been working nonstop to try and get everything sorted. His report on Terra was limited though, considering he hadn’t stayed long once he had realized a Terran had gotten into his parameters. 

 He was also still trying to figure out what went wrong on that front too. His ship had been programmed to make sure he found an area far away from any Terrans. So the fact one had passed by undetected shouldn’t have been possible. 

 Tango closed his eyes, still remembering the fear in the little guy's face. He felt bad for what he did but he had panicked. He tried to calm him down after the fact but the little guy didn’t understand Galactic and Tango didn’t understand any Terran languages either.

 No one did, which was why he couldn’t even use a translator to help him out. Terra was still a new planet as far as the federation was considered and they were still trying to learn more before even thinking about making contact with them. That was why Tango was here, one of the first selected to gather some data on Terra by going there and gathering it himself.

 He was never supposed to bring back an actual Terran though. But because the Terran had seen him, the federation told him he had no choice but to bring him along. It was too dangerous for the little guy to get away and tell someone. So, Tango made the difficult decision to put him in an enclosure and try and gain his trust from a distance.

 After 2 weeks though, not much progress had been made.

 Tango sighed and stood up, heading back over to the enclosure. By now, the Terran was usually done eating and Tango didn’t want to keep any dirty dishes in there for too long with him. “Alright, little buddy, I’m just gonna take your dishes from you.” He said, despite the fact the Terran couldn’t understand him, he still made it a point to talk and say what he was doing.

 Tango looked down at the enclosure, only for his eyes to go wide at the lack of life within. “Wha-little buddy?!” Tango exclaimed, looking all around the table and right underneath the floor. He stood back up, looking to see the door was ajar.

 He had forgotten to lock it.

 “No, no, no, no, no…” Tango said to himself and then ran over to his Holo-Screen, the flame on top of his head rising a lot higher than normal because of his panic. “Holo Tek! Call Zed!”

 “Calling Zed.” The robotic voice spoke and then there was a ringing.

 The screen came to life with the face of Zedaph smiling at him, giving him a wave. “Hey Tango! What’s going on-”

 Tango cut him off. “I lost the Terran!” He said, arms waving up and down.

 Zed blinked, taking in the information. “You what?!” He suddenly exclaimed as the information caught up with him. “How did this happen?”

 “I-I think I forgot to lock the enclosure.” Tango admitted sheepishly. He rubbed the back of his neck. “I’ve just been so tired lately…”

 “Well, that’s not good.” Zed pushed a few buttons on his side of the screen. “At the very least, the Terran can’t get too far. He’s stuck on this ship. But we don’t want him to get into anything dangerous so best we find him quickly.”

 A blare of red flashed across Zed’s face after a few more button pushes and he frowned. “I wish you would have given him that chip we had talked about…”

 Tango sighed. “I didn’t want to do anything like that until I built up trust with him.” Inserting a GPS chip into the little guy would have been traumatizing for him, no doubt. He didn’t want to scare him anymore than he already had. “Besides, I didn’t think we’d really need it yet.”

  “Right…” Zed said with his own sigh. “We need to get that in him sooner rather than later though. Especially once you get back here.” Zed typed a few more things. “For now, the life detection you have installed on the ship should help you find him.”

 Tango’s eyes went wide and then he grinned. “The life detectionificator! I completely forgot about that!” He nodded at Zed. “I'll try that, call you back soon!” Before Zed could say any more, Tango pressed the hang up button and went into activating the system.

 Tango frowned in concentration as he set it up. “Don’t worry little buddy, everything is gonna be okay…” He said to himself.

  ***

   Jimmy should have thought this through better.

 He was currently on the floor of an oversized spaceship, dwarfed by everything. Somehow, even the dust particles seemed to be at a larger scale. He wasn’t sure how that was possible but he was not in a state to be thinking about stuff like that.

 He had retreated to an isolated corner of the room, trying to figure out what to do and not wanting to be in the middle of the floor while he did. But what exactly had his plan been here? He had been so happy about a chance at freedom that he hadn’t stopped to consider if it even was a good idea.

 Because honestly, there was nothing Jimmy could do. He was trapped, if not in the cage, then on the spaceship itself. There was no way for him to get back home by himself, even if he knew what anything in this place did, his size was a huge detriment to his ability to even use any of it.

 And now, having jumped at the chance to get out of his cage, he was probably only going to make the alien angry. Jimmy shivered at the thought, mind racing with less than pleasant scenarios. But the other problem was that Jimmy couldn’t survive like this on his own. He hated to admit it but he needed the alien. The alien was his only source of food, of water. Jimmy had no hope in getting any himself.

 So he was in a dilemma. He didn’t want the alien to find him, scared of his reaction to having escaped. But he needed to be found by the alien, so he could live.

 Of course, the alien finding him could also lead to his death, depending on his reaction. But it was the better choice of surviving.

 Maybe if he went to the giant himself he wouldn’t be as mad?

 Unfortunately, Jimmy didn’t even have the chance to make that choice, as the floor underneath him started to rumble. It wasn’t earthquake worthy, but it was enough for Jimmy to feel and know what was coming.

 Jimmy turned around and looked up, backing into the corner as the alien walked over to him. His eyes had honed in on Jimmy immediately and Jimmy couldn’t help but shiver. 

 The towering being then stopped just short of his position and started to kneel down. Jimmy turned his head away and shut his eyes tight in preparation to be grabbed. His body tense as he waited for the feeling of giant fingers to completely surround him.

 When nothing happened after what felt like several long minutes, Jimmy peered his eyes open and looked toward the alien. He was still just kneeled there, looking down at him with an expression Jimmy couldn’t quite identify. But it at least didn’t appear angry. The alien’s hands started to move as he noticed Jimmy looking at him and Jimmy flinched back. The alien stopped short before continuing. But he wasn’t bringing his hands closer to Jimmy, no, instead he moved his hands upwards, palms facing Jimmy.

 Jimmy just looked at him, wondering what this could mean.

 And then the alien started to speak. “I’ᒲ ᓭ𝙹∷∷||, i ↸𝙹リ’ℸ ̣  ᒲᒷᔑリ ℸ ̣ 𝙹 ᓭᓵᔑ∷ᒷ ||𝙹⚍.” Of course, Jimmy couldn’t understand what he was saying but something about the tone of his voice made Jimmy pause.

 “I…i ⊣ᒷℸ ̣  ╎ℸ ̣  ℸ ̣ ⍑𝙹⚍⊣⍑. Y𝙹⚍’∷ᒷ ᓭ𝙹 ᓭᒲᔑꖎꖎ ᔑリ↸ i’ᒲ ᓭ𝙹 ʖ╎⊣…ᔑリ↸ i ↸╎↸ ℸ ̣ ᒷᓵ⍑リ╎ᓵᔑꖎꖎ|| ꖌ╎↸リᔑ!¡ ||𝙹⚍…” The alien shook his head with a slight wince, the meaning of the words still lost on Jimmy’s ears. “I ꖌリ𝙹∴ ||𝙹⚍ ᓵᔑリ’ℸ ̣  ⚍リ↸ᒷ∷ᓭℸ ̣ ᔑリ↸ ᒲᒷ ʖ⚍ℸ ̣  i ∷ᒷᔑꖎꖎ|| ↸𝙹リ’ℸ ̣  ∴ᔑリℸ ̣  ℸ ̣ 𝙹 ⍑⚍∷ℸ ̣  ||𝙹⚍.” The alien’s eyes squinted in earnest and Jimmy really wished he could tell what he was saying.

 But maybe he didn’t have to. After saying his last sentence, the alien pinched himself letting out a small hiss of pain and making Jimmy jump. The alien then pointed towards Jimmy, pointed at his arm, and then shook his head.

 Jimmy blinked.

 If he didn’t know any better, he would say the alien was charading that he wasn’t going to hurt him.

 The alien must have seen a spark of understanding in his eyes because he smiled gently and spoke again. “I’ᒲ リ𝙹ℸ ̣  ⊣𝙹╎リ⊣ ℸ ̣ 𝙹 ⍑⚍∷ℸ ̣  ||𝙹⚍, i !¡∷𝙹ᒲ╎ᓭᒷ.” His voice was softer now, as gentle as his smile. “Pꖎᒷᔑᓭᒷ ⋮⚍ᓭℸ ̣  ⚍リ↸ᒷ∷ᓭℸ ̣ ᔑリ↸ ℸ ̣ ⍑ᔑℸ ̣  ╎⎓ リ𝙹ℸ ̣ ⍑╎リ⊣ ᒷꖎᓭᒷ.”

 The look the alien was giving him was much too human. It made Jimmy question everything he thought about the alien.

 The alien seemed to hesitate, before lowering his hands. Jimmy once again flinched back as he realized they were heading toward him but they stopped short, both hands lay flat on the floor palm up. An invitation for Jimmy to get on himself.

 That gesture alone spoke volumes in Jimmy’s mind. Being grabbed, he felt helpless and trapped. But being offered a hand, one that was not constraining him…this had to be the alien trying to tell him that he wanted things to change between them.

 Jimmy bit his lip. He didn’t really have a choice but at least the illusion of one was nice. At least the alien seemed to be trying. He looked into those giant red eyes, searching for anything malicious but came up empty. His gaze wandered back down to the offered hands and he felt himself stepping forward.

 He hesitated as he came to stand right next to the alien’s giant hands before slowly climbing onto them. He sat in the center and looked up at the giant with shaky trust.

  ***

   Tango couldn’t believe that had worked. He knew it was going to be hard to get across what he meant, what with the language barrier and all but he seemed to have done a pretty good job. The Terran in his hands was evident of that.

 He knew this was just the start and they still had a long way to go but Tango felt giddy that they were finally making some sort of progress. 

 He still had a chance to mess this up though. He needed to be careful and take this slow. Tango cupped his hands slightly, so the ride would be a bit safer for his tiny passenger, and then he slowly stood up. He didn’t take his eyes off the Terran the entire time, making sure nothing was going to go wrong. Once he fully stood, he walked back over to the table with the enclosure on top of it. As the enclosure came into view, a tiny noise started up and Tango looked down in realization that it was the Terran speaking.

 The little guy looked up at him, a wary look on his face. He looked between him and the enclosure before he pointed at it and shook his head, his expression becoming slightly more determined.

 It didn’t take a genius to guess what the little guy was trying to convey. He didn’t want to go back into his enclosure. Which was entirely fair, honestly. Tango felt bad for keeping him in there but it was only to try and keep him safe and from trying to run.

 Of course, it didn’t even do that well. So Tango was not against taking the enclosure away. “I’ll get rid of it, don’t worry.” He said. He needed to show the Terran that he could trust him and that included listening to him as best as he could.

 Words weren’t going to work though, so he needed to take action. He nodded down at the Terran and then set him down on the table before grabbing the enclosure. He saw the Terran watching him with wide eyes and Tango gave him a smile before he took the enclosure back over to the closet he had gotten it from in the first place.

 With that done, he walked back to the table and took a seat, looking down at the Terran. “There we go. Is that better?”

 The Terran took a few steps back but at least didn’t look like he was going to run away again. He looked up at him and said a few words in his language. “ᛏᚺᚨᚾᚲ ᛁᛟᚢ”

 Tango tilted head, catching onto the tone. He sounded grateful.

 Now Tango felt even worse about putting him in there.

 But he shook off that feeling for now. “You’re welcome.”

 They still had a long way to go but Tango was certain now that they could do it. They could bridge this gap and learn to understand each other. Both in language and otherwise.

 And Tango could only hope, that once that time came to pass, that the Terran didn’t hate him for being unable to take him back home.

Translations:

I’ᒲ ᓭ𝙹∷∷||, i ↸𝙹リ’ℸ ̣ ᒲᒷᔑリ ℸ ̣ 𝙹 ᓭᓵᔑ∷ᒷ ||𝙹⚍. - I’m sorry, I don’t mean to scare you.

I…i ⊣ᒷℸ ̣ ╎ℸ ̣ ℸ ̣ ⍑𝙹⚍⊣⍑. Y𝙹⚍’∷ᒷ ᓭ𝙹 ᓭᒲᔑꖎꖎ ᔑリ↸ i’ᒲ ᓭ𝙹 ʖ╎⊣…ᔑリ↸ i ↸╎↸ ℸ ̣ ᒷᓵ⍑リ╎ᓵᔑꖎꖎ|| ꖌ╎↸リᔑ!¡ ||𝙹⚍… - I…I get it though. You’re so small and I’m so big…and I did technically kidnap you…

I ꖌリ𝙹∴ ||𝙹⚍ ᓵᔑリ’ℸ ̣ ⚍リ↸ᒷ∷ᓭℸ ̣ ᔑリ↸ ᒲᒷ ʖ⚍ℸ ̣ i ∷ᒷᔑꖎꖎ|| ↸𝙹リ’ℸ ̣ ∴ᔑリℸ ̣ ℸ ̣ 𝙹 ⍑⚍∷ℸ ̣ ||𝙹⚍. - I know you can’t understand me but I really don’t want to hurt you.

I’ᒲ リ𝙹ℸ ̣ ⊣𝙹╎リ⊣ ℸ ̣ 𝙹 ⍑⚍∷ℸ ̣ ||𝙹⚍, i !¡∷𝙹ᒲ╎ᓭᒷ. - I’m not going to hurt you, I promise.

Pꖎᒷᔑᓭᒷ ⋮⚍ᓭℸ ̣ ⚍リ↸ᒷ∷ᓭℸ ̣ ᔑリ↸ ℸ ̣ ⍑ᔑℸ ̣ ╎⎓ リ𝙹ℸ ̣ ⍑╎リ⊣ ᒷꖎᓭᒷ. - Please just understand that if nothing else.

ᛏᚺᚨᚾᚲ ᛁᛟᚢ - Thank you

[starwarsmum]

Day 9 of Daminette December and we're carrying on with the Discovering the Paris Issue story. Today's prompt is "You Call That Art?"

Part 1 Part 2

@maribat-calendar-events

“Excited for your first fashion show?” Adrien asked, holding still as Marinette pinned the suit jacket in place.

“I mean, it's not really a fashion show,” she muttered, rolling her eyes. “It's just the exhibit for the senior art students that they do every year. It's not like we're going to have anyone super important in attendance.”

“Mari, I will be there, how can you say I'm not important?” Adrien gasped, putting on a wounded voice. She jabbed another pin into the fabric, making sure to point it just slightly into his arm. “Ow, Jesus, that was uncalled for.”

“It was totally called for,” she retorted, leaning back as she checked that the outfit hung correctly. Happy with the fit, she motioned for him to take it off and packed up the pincushion.

“No, it wasn't,” he insisted, pouting. “Don't tell me you're still in a bad mood over the whole Damian thing.”

“Of course I'm not,” she shrilled, shoving him rather more forcefully than she normally would. “Why would I still care about that? It's not like I'm worried that he worked out my secret identity and that he's planning to come and try to take the Miraculous away from me, and that's why he was so insistent that I forgive him and try again, or that-”

“Okay, breathe please,” Adrien said, grabbing her up in a tight hug. “I think if he'd been planning to take over the world with the Miraculous and he'd worked you out, we would have seen him again by now. He was wealthy, so it's not like a little trip across the world would deter him.”

“You're right, I know you're right. I guess I'm just nervous about the exhibit and it's making me catastrophise a little,” she muttered, fiddling with an earring as she gazed at her sketchbook. She was only three days away from the exhibit and she had yet to meet one of her models, because the woman had volunteered and been accepted before admitting that she had other commitments until the day before.

She had been sent the measurements and worked as hard as she could to get them precise, but she knew there would be minor adjustments at least when the woman finally arrived. She hadn't told Adrien about the other model yet because she didn't want him to talk her out of using Kor’i. But as a safety she had made an identical set of clothes to fit Chloé, who was her back up model.

“Okay, this suit is the last thing to stitch, final fittings the day before the event,” she said, smiling nervously. “When this is all over, I'm going into a coma for a week.”

_ _ _

On the day before the exhibit Marinette was pacing nervously in the theatre. Kor'i had arrived punctually and she was gorgeous. A little taller than Adrien, muscular, and with striking looks that she humbly put down to her Tamaranean heritage. 

At first sight, Marinette was fairly certain the clothes she had made would be mostly on target, but she was relieved she had left a little extra room to accommodate any last minute changes. Because those arms? Marinette could have died of envy. And blushing. 

“Marinette, these clothes are fantastic,” Kor'i cooed as she stepped out of the changing room. 

“Hmm.” Marinette eyed the woman critically, mentally making note of where the fit wasn't quite tight enough. A couple of quick pins and she was satisfied. “Okay great, while I make a note of the changes on this one go change into the next, please.”

It took practically no time at all to get through the other nine outfits, and Marinette was confident that she would have the changes finished in plenty of time to get at least four hours of sleep. 

She also really liked Kor’i. The woman asked intelligent questions about the designs and had a sunny disposition that reminded Marinette of Adrien. Speaking of which…

“I'm so sorry I'm late!” The boy shouted as he flew into the room. He immediately latched onto Marinette, groveling into her hair as he gave his excuses. She rolled her eyes and assured him it was fine, she had managed to finish the other model's fitting and he was just in time to start his own.

He looked over to Kor’i at that point and screeched out loud. After that he was gibbering and pointing too much for her to work out what his problem was. Finally he managed to calm down enough to explain himself, sort of.

“Ohmygodyou’reKor’iAnders!” He shrieked, tripping over himself to throw his arms around her. The woman smiled broadly and accepted his embrace with incredible grace considering he was technically a full grown adult.

“Adrien, what the heck are you doing?”

“Marinette, I cannot believe you got Kor’i Anders to come and do your show,” he said, turning to her with betrayal written clearly on his face. At her nonplussed look he gave an exaggeratedly exasperated sigh. “Maribug, M'lady, you are a fashion designer, how do you not know one of the most famous international models?”

“Adrien, I didn't know you on sight and there were literal billboards with your face on them all over Paris,” Marinette said uncomfortably. “Can you please go put on your first outfit so I can check the fit?”

“I apologise, I didn't realise that you were unaware of my career history when you accepted me as a volunteer,” Kor'i offered after a moment’s silence. 

“No, there's nothing to apologise for, I should have recognised you,” she replied sheepishly. “I tend to focus on the clothes more than the models, and it didn't occur to me that you would have that kind of experience. I just thought you were a crazily gorgeous woman who wanted to make a start in the world of fashion.”

“Well you are much more proficient at making clothes than I thought you would be when I volunteered,” Kor'i admitted, looking slightly uncomfortable. “But now we are both more aware of each other so it's fine, correct?”

“Yeah, I suppose so,” Marinette laughed. They were interrupted by Adrien stepping out in the first outfit. Immediately she fluttered around him, eyeing each part critically and nodding happily at the result. “How does it feel? Not too tight? And nowhere feels too baggy?”

“Bugaboo, it's perfect, as always,” Adrien assured her, striking a silly pose as she giggled. He saluted and went back to try on a different one.

“You two are very close, is he your boyfriend?” Kor'i asked, head tilted slightly. Marinette snorted and shook her head.

“Uh, no, he's more like an annoying older brother,” she said after a moment. Adrien gave an affronted noise as he turned slowly for Marinette's appraisal. “Oh, like you don't work to be the most annoying person in the room at any given time.”

“Well, will your boyfriend - or girlfriend - be at the show tomorrow? I would like to meet the one chosen by the most talented designer I have ever met,” Kor'i said innocently. 

“Given that any significant other I have is imaginary, I can introduce you right now,” Marinette grumped. Kor'i looked puzzled so she sighed and made a vague gesture with one hand. “I don't exactly inspire people to date me. And the last guy to show an interest turned out to be more interested in what I know than anything romantic.”

“Aw, don't be hard on yourself, Mari,” Adrien said as he stepped back out. “He could've been interested in more than one thing. And he did try to apologise, right?”

“After two days! And actions speak way louder than words and everything before that made it very obvious. Now go try on the next one, please.”

“It sounds as though you've been through a trying time,” Kor'i said when Adrien stepped away again. “But if he was sincere, how could he prove it to you?”

“It's irrelevant anyway, he lives in a different country and has hopefully forgotten all about me by now,” Marinette said, a note of finality in her voice. It still hurt to think about Damian and she was sure it showed.

“I would be very surprised if this boy was not interested in you. You are a talented, beautiful young lady, I am sure that even a blind man would be interested.”

“That's what I'm always telling her! And Damian looked pretty sorry when he came to apologise before we left,” Adrien said, stepping out in the last outfit. Marinette harrumphed and ignored him in favour of checking the fit.

“Adrien, we've been over this. It's a moot point and I don't want to talk about it anymore. I'll be right back, okay? Just hang the outfit back up and then we can all go get lunch if you want.”

Adrien watched as Marinette left the room, her back straight and shoulders tense. She hadn't been the same since Gotham, always on edge and sad. He came out of the changing room to find that she still wasn't back and he sighed.

“I didn't mean to upset her,” Kor'i said worriedly. “I did not realise she was so affected by what had happened.”

“She's a pretty anxious person in general, this guy just happened to touch a sore point for her. There's a couple of other reasons, she thinks she's protecting something which I can't really fault her for. And she has this totally dumb idea that guys don't see her like that.”

“I wonder where she got that idea, mister ‘very good friend’.”

“Chloé,” Adrien whined, turning to his other best friend as she entered. “I was fifteen and stupid, okay?”

“Yeah, at least you're not fifteen anymore,” she grinned. “You must be the model Marinette booked. I'm Chloé Bourgeois, Marinette's other close friend and the woman who would have done the show if you hadn't shown.”

“We are very different sizes,” Kor'i said, blinking in surprise. “She must have been very confident that I would show.”

“Oh, no, she just made two sets,” Chloé said casually. “I'm going to bully her into giving me one of the outfits she made because it is literally the best thing I have ever worn.”

“You don't have to bully me into it Chlo, I was planning on giving it to you anyway,” came Marinette's amused voice. She looked a lot calmer, though there was a redness to her eyes that told Adrien that she had definitely been crying. “Ready for lunch?”

_ _ _

On the morning of the exhibit, things were running on a tight schedule. She was due to be the last showing of the day, due to the nature of her work, and she was nervous. She had invited Jagged and Penny, as well as Luka and Kagami and Kor'i had asked if her family could attend. 

Marinette's luck had been running high for several days and she was worried that it was going to lead to a string of luck so bad that her designing career would be over before it began. Adrien had to talk her down from several spirals as she walked through the other, more traditional, art exhibits.

“Oh, Marinette,” came a falsely sweet voice, and she had to push her temper down as she turned to face Lila. “Don't you just adore all of these art pieces? It's such a shame that yours has to be done on its own, since it's so different to everyone else's. And don't listen to anyone who says that it can't be called art, even if they have a point.”

“Wow Lila, and did you submit your work for the exhibit? Oh, wait, I must be forgetting some illness, or injury that prevented you from finishing what must have been a true masterpiece,” she retorted with fake concern dripping from her words.

“Sorry to intrude, but may I speak with you before the show, Marinette?” Kor'i interrupted, flashing a dazzling smile at Lila before pulling Marinette away. “I know we are due to start in twenty-five minutes, but I feel I must be honest with you before my family arrives.”

“Oh no, please tell me you're not dropping out,” Marinette groaned, rubbing her temples as she tried to figure out how to get Chloé dressed and on the stage in less than half an hour. Maybe if she switched a few things around…

“No, no, I wish to continue in the show,” the Tamaranean reassured her quickly. She looked guilty, however and that made Marinette nervous. “You have been wonderfully kind to me since I arrived, Marinette, and I have not been fully honest with you. 

“I mostly asked to model for you because my daughter wanted to see you again. She was fairly distressed that she upset you and I thought that, as you have met both my husband and her, I was best placed to help bridge the gap.”

“I don't-”

“I am Mar'i’s mother,” Kor'i said softly, wincing when Marinette blanched. “Dick is my husband and Damian is my brother-in-law. I understand if you do not wish to see them, I did not realise you were so affected by your disagreement, nor that you felt so betrayed by Damian's behaviour.”

“I- I don't have time for any of this,” Marinette wailed, fingers spreading into her hair. She came to a decision fairly quickly, but she was not a happy bug. “Okay, okay, I can do this. If you're still willing to do the catwalk then we can work with that. Everything else can wait until it's over.”

When Kor'i gave her a relieved smile Marinette felt like screaming. Forget bad luck, this was a catastrophe. She sent Chloé a quick message, begging her not to be late to the show, and put on her game face. She could get through this evening and then she could vanish into the anonymity of being the mysterious designer for Jagged Stone for the rest of her natural life.

The show went spectacularly and she relaxed when she saw Chloé in the audience. Adrien did a double take when he spotted her as well, but managed to play it off as part of one of his walks.

Already planning to ditch the afterparty as soon as humanly possible, Marinette resolved to show her face to Jagged and Penny before faking a stomach problem. Armed with this resolve she stepped out of the back area and made a beeline for the eccentric musician.

“Lil M! That was a totally rocking show, can I order one of those dresses for Penny?” Jagged shouted as she closed in. He was standing with a dark haired man with a solid build and a bright smile that didn't fully reach his eyes. 

“Sure thing, Jagged,” she said, reaching up to give him une bise as a greeting. “Where is Pen? I was hoping to catch her before-”

“Oh, she's off making a phone call, you know how she is with work. You're lucky she stopped working for long enough to watch the show. But forget that, let me introduce you to my old mate, Bruce! Brucie, this is Marinette, my own personal designer and an absolutely hardcore little rocker.”

“It's a pleasure to meet you, Marinette. I've heard great things about you, and your show was spectacular,” Bruce said, a more genuine smile on his face as he took her hand in greeting. 

“Oh, um, thank you!” Marinette glanced around to see if she could spot Penny, who would not forgive her if she snuck away without saying hello. “Jagged, I'm not feeling-”

She was going to say ‘I’m not feeling well’, but was cut off when a small ball of energy leapt onto her. Only years of training and battle stopped her from falling as she absorbed the impact by stepping back. She blinked as she was confronted by dark curly hair and a pair of vivid green eyes.

“Marinette! I missed you soooo much! Will you dance with me? And play with me? I have more pictures to show you, of Alfred the Cat, and Batcow, and-”

“Mar'i, you can't just jump on people,” Bruce said with gentle exasperation. “I'm so sorry for my granddaughter, she's very excitable and has been excited for this event for weeks.”

“I- that means that you're-” Marinette couldn't find the words, but a cold feeling was centered in her chest. She looked around wildly, feeling cornered. It didn't take long for her to spot Dick dragging someone along, and as much as she hated it her heart gave a squeeze.

Damian was dressed in a black blazer over a green shirt and blue jeans. His hair was more tousled than she had ever seen it before and it made her stomach flutter. He looked just as angry and brooding as she remembered as he argued with his brother.

“I- excuse me,” she squeaked, before fleeing towards the last place she had seen Chloé and Adrien. She had to get out of here before she was trapped.

“You're squishing me,” Mar'i said, almost causing Marinette to drop her. She'd forgotten she was holding her and cursed her inattention. If she had remembered, she could have handed her off to Bruce before running, but now she needed to find one of her adults so that she could leave for good.

Muttering apologies, she glanced around the room and almost collapsed with relief when she saw Kor'i stepping out of the back, dressed in her own clothes. Immediately she darted towards the woman.

“I see Mar’i found you!” Kor'i beamed, placing a hand on her heart. “Oh, you look wonderful together! I hope you have been behaving, my little bumgorf.”

“Mama, Marinette was running with me, it was so much fun! And look, she's not even out of breath, so that means she would be able to play properly, right?”

And what did that mean? Marinette was glad they were in a corner of the room, mostly hidden from the crowd enjoying the party. Kor'i was laughing and assuring the child that she was sure Marinette would be able to play some games.

“Look, I'm sorry to do this but I have to go,” she blurted out, interrupting whatever Kor'i was saying. Panic was the only thing on her mind and she wanted to get somewhere safe now. She only realised she was hyperventilating when warm strong hands gripped her shoulders.

She whirled, instinctively trying to hit whoever had grabbed her but hampered by holding Mar'i. Whoever it was dodged her attempt and spoke in a low, soothing voice. She hadn't realised but tears had blurred her eyes completely, so she only realised it was Damian when they spilled over.

He instructed her to take deep breaths, breathing along with her until hers leveled out. As soon as she could gulp the breaths down properly, he stepped back, expertly extracting Mar’i from her grip as he did so. She looked up at him, confused and still hurt, but he was instructing Dick to fetch ‘one of her blond friends’.

She couldn't stop staring at him, even as Chloé appeared to whisk her out of the way. She hesitated, her heart aching and her mind bursting with questions, but ultimately allowed Chloé to pull her away.

Part 4

[baronessblixen]

Twenty questions for fanfic writers

Tagged by the amazing @frogsmulder. Thank you!

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

417 🤯

2. What's your total AO3 word count?

774,561 - I wanna get to a million now, wow

3. What fandoms do you write for?

The X-Files, Frasier. At least on AO3. I have way more fandoms on ff.net (where I used to post).

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

Prompts & Drabbles

Fictober 2020

Fowl Play

Love is Not Blind

Some Things You Just Can't Fake

5. Do you respond to comments?

For a while I did and then I forgot again and I'm always afraid I will reply to someone but oversee someone else. In theory I want to respond to all of them! I just got two amazing ones in the last two days. So thoughtful and so plain kind. I definitely need to reply to these people.

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

I wrote one where Mulder dies (of old age, though) but I'm not even sure it's on AO3.

7. What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

All of them have a happy ending! I don't think I have a story without a happy ending.

8. Do you get hate on fics?

I have. Mostly in the distant past, but I think some more recent hate too. If I remember correctly, it wasn't directed at a fic in particular but rather at me as a writer in general.

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

I have written a few smut stories. I know it's a popular genre, but I gotta be honest and admit that it's just not my favorite. Neither writing nor reading it. I know that's a very unpopular opinion.

10. Do you write crossovers? What’s the craziest one you’ve written?

Again, not on tumblr, but I think I wrote a Frasier/Hot in Cleveland crossover once.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not that I know of.

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

Hmmm. I think maybe one?

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

I have! I co-wrote Eden with a bunch of others! I mean we each wrote chapters but that still counts, right? It was a lot of fun and I'd love to do it again.

14. What’s your all time favorite ship?

Mulder and Scully

15. What’s a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will?

My Five Minutes Series. I think about it so often but I like the chapters I have written a lot and I'm afraid to screw it up by writing more.

16. What are your writing strengths?

I'm decent at writing dialogue.

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

Everything. I struggle with describing an environment or surroundings. I gotta admit I sometimes even skip reading those parts when other people write them. I don't see those things in my head.

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic?

Technically I always write dialogue in another language since English isn't my native language. I've written a few German fanfics and that was a lot of fun. Might do it again.

19. First fandom you wrote for?

It was either Friends or X-Files. Or if we count stories I only wrote for myself then it's Scarecrow and Mrs. King.

20. Favorite fic you’ve written?

Can't choose between my babies!

Tagging @xxsksxxx @randomfoggytiger @agent-troi @numinousmysteries @oohnotvery @atths--twice (feel free to ignore if you don't wanna do it!)

[inevitably-johnlocked]

Hi Steph, how are you lovely? Thank you again for everything you do for us! I'm sort of in the mood for fun Johnlock marijuana fics. John and Sherlock accidentally or not so accidentally getting high (and preferably naughty). I just finished lifeonmars' 'Smoke' and itching for more 🤭

Hi Nonny!

AHHHH okay I honestly don't think I HAVE any that I've read? If I do they'll be on one of my Drugs lists:

Self Harm, Danger Nights, and Drugs

Drugs and Drugging Pt 2

Drugs and Drugging Pt 3

I did a quick look on my MFL list and here is what showed up when I did a tag search... I haven't read them so I don't know if the drugs referenced IS pot/weed... If anyone has others that they can or would like to add, please do!

RECREATIONAL DRUG USE (MFLs)

Smoke by lifeonmars (T, 4,827 w., 1 Ch. || Marijuana, Recreational Drug Use, Fluff, Humour, Rock and Roll) – Sometimes time and space collide to show you something you've been missing. Sherlock's pipe helps.

Better Than by pandoras_chaos (E, 9,869 w. || Marijuana / Drug Use, Oral / Anal Sex, Awkwardness, Pining) – Mrs Hudson looked up at him and started giggling, seemingly unable to help herself as she clutched at her stomach and leaned back into the sofa cushions. Sherlock felt his face twitch, and he tried to contain the rumbling chuckles as they spilled forth from his throat, but it was useless. "The thing about John...?" she prompted after a few minutes of breathless laughter. "Ah! Yes," Sherlock sighed, reaching for the ashtray and collecting the expertly rolled joint, "The thing about John is..." he brought the lighter up to the end of the paper, took a drag and held it for a moment, feeling his chest expand with the fragrant smoke. "He's..." he exhaled long and low. "He's fucking brilliant." Mrs Hudson let loose a bark of high, girlish laughter. "You mean he's brilliant at fucking, dear," she corrected, reaching for the bag of crisps on the table. Sherlock felt his cheeks flush, but his face split into a sly grin. "I wouldn't know, Hudders." He sighed a bit wistfully, "I really wouldn't know."

Sit Pretty For Me by LipstickDaddy (E, 19,502 w., 10 Ch. || Alternate First Meeting Pre-S1, Recreational Drug Use, Light BDSM, Strangers to Lovers, Matchmaker Mike, Light Angst, Happy Ending) – What if John and Sherlock met once before, at an underground sex club, a decade before Mike Stamford introduced them that afternoon at Bart’s?

On Dates, Drugs, and Destiny by squire (T, 20,055 w., 3 Ch. || ASiP Divergence, Romance, Arranged Marriage, Crack, Humour, Fluff, Angst, Misunderstandings, Love Confessions, Developing Relationship, First Kiss, Jealousy, Friends to Lovers, Courting, Drugs / Recreational Drug use, Case-Related Drug Use, Sherlock Being an Idiot, Meddling Mycroft) – When Sherlock Holmes and John Watson first meet in the lab at Bart's, it isn't actually for the first time. But why does only one of them know this - and should the other one keep the secret, or will revealing the truth ruin their friendship forever? A story of John being not Sherlock's date, of Sherlock being around way too much drugs, and a Destiny that always has to have the last word.

Heart on a String by AngelSpirit (E, 23,257 w., 1 Ch. || PODFIC AVAILABLE || Alternate First Meeting, First Kiss / Time, Infidelity, Angst, Fluff, Kidlock/Teenlock, Mentions of Recreational Drug Use) – John and Sherlock got married with Cracker Jack rings when they were 7 yrs old. It wasn’t official, but for their whole lives they took it very seriously.

Gilded Cages by MaryLouLeach (E, 52,323 w., 21 Ch. || Supernatural Creatures AU || Rape/Non-Con, Graphic Violence, Suicide Attempt, Attempted Murder, Vampires and Werewolves, Blood Drinking, Slavery, Dom/Sub Undertones, Torture, Anal Sex, Turning, Recreational Drug Use, Drug Addiction, Dark Sherlock, Protective Mycroft, Possessive Sherlock, Bonding, War, Hurt/Comfort, Romance, Angst, Child Abuse) – The vampire remained motionless in the dark of his prison; his eyes clasped shut as if he were sleeping. However Vampires didn’t sleep, or rather this one did not. Sleeping would bring dreams; dreams were solely a human condition, whereas nightmares, nightmares were what plagued the sleep of the immortal. Sherlock knew he was a monster, and even now in this hellish prison locked in the unfurnished room, he felt the darkness of soul start to fester. Pushing at him and all he wished to do was silence it, he needed his fix needed more. The last addict he fed on wasn’t enough. He needed more, needed to shut out the screaming that plagued him that weighed him down and kept him shackled to his hunger. Part 1 of the GILDED series

Your Many Tendencies Series by apliddell (T, 52,222+ w. across 5 works || WiP || Femlock, POC Characters, Enby Character, Sherlock’s Violin, YouTuber John, UST, Mutual Pining, Misunderstandings, Slow Burn, Domesticity, Fluff, Recreational Drug Use, Friends to Lovers, Sherlock’s Past, First Kiss, Love Confessions, John’s Family, Christmas, Anxious Sherlock, Hurt / Comfort, Institutional Racism) – John Watson returns to London after a long absence, somewhat the worse for wear. She meets Sherlock Holmes, and starts feeling excited about life again.

Save Me or Let Me Drown by GubraithianFire (E, 72,986 w., 16 Ch. || Shameless AU || Dysfunctional Family, Alcoholism, Recreational Drug Use, Angst, Humour, Clubbing, Bipolar Disorder, Custody Battle, Mutual Pining, Family Fluff, Smut, Handcuffs, Anal Sex, Shower Sex, Rimming, Come Shot, Angst With Happy Ending) – How Sherlock escaped from his family, John sacrificed everything to his, and how, together, they built their own. Part 1 of the The Watsons series

Filthy/Gorgeous by MirabileLectu (E, 87,951 w., 12 Ch. || Prostitution, Alternate First Meeting, First Time, Recreational Drug Use, Drugs, Angst, Drama)– Even if this was legal, even if there was nothing technically wrong with what he was doing he knew that if he were caught, or if he were seen by someone he knew, or if he were found out in any way the shame would never, ever die. What would his regiment say? What would his family say? What would anyone say if they discovered that John was currently in a cab on the way to pick up a male prostitute for the evening?

To Light Another's Path by BeautifulFiction (E, 128,654 w., 19 Ch. || Post-TGG, Sick Fic, Hurt/Comfort, Drug Addiction / Recreational Drug Use, First Time / Kiss, Case Fic) – Teaching John to observe seems to be a losing battle, but when Sherlock falls ill and submits himself to John's care, will he realise that there is more to life than the science of deduction? Meanwhile, there is a murder to solve, and John must try and convince Sherlock not to sacrifice his own health for the sake of the case.

[changingplumbob]

Woods Household: Chapter 2, Part 13

How will Reece and Samir's friends react to his occult status?

CW: Low level sim spice. Content Warning Guide

Carrying on from last chapter, Samir has a voice in his head now that he's a werewolf. When it "speaks" to him, it will be in italics. When he answers back, just in his head, it will be bold.

Don’t tell them, they’ll hate us. Hush, they’re Reece’s friends and are becoming mine to. Who says he’s a good judge of character. He likes me doesn’t he? Sometimes I don’t like you.

Reece: So me and Samir wanted to let you know-

Deanna: Are you engaged?

Tamika: Oh I would love a wedding

Noe: Like you would know what to wear

Tamika: I looked presentable at mum and dad’s

Reece: Umm… no, that’s not it

Deanna: Sorry, I’ve been around Devin all day and she makes me excitable

Reece: You know we moved here to try figure out what happened to Samir’s parents? We kind of got waylaid

Noe: Laid? You pregnant?

Tamika: I'm embarrassed to call you my brother sometimes

Reece: I’m just gonna say it. Samir got bitten and now he’s a werewolf

A silence falls over the table, silence except for Samir’s noisy eating.

Noe: Werewolves are real?

Tamika: No Noe, they’re folklore

Noe: You know I don’t like Taylor Swift

Deanna: Are you serious Reece?

Reece: Yes I am. He’s a werewolf now

Deanna: And you’re both… okay with it?

Reece: I know it’s not normal but neither am I right

Deanna: I just want you happy. If you’re happy shagging a werewolf, good for you

Tamika: But you don’t do it in wolf form right

Samir: *through food* Or do we

Tamika pales and Reece smiles knowing Samir wouldn’t dream of it. Samir is attempting to make small jokes with his friends, it’s progress.

The rest of the meal is relaxed. The guests ask questions, Reece and Samir answer what they can, but ultimately, they still have gaps in their knowledge.

Deanna: Does the drain get way more clogged with all that fur

Samir: I don’t really shower in wolf form

Noe: Then how does your fur stay clean

Reece: He- hmm, good question… magic?

They all thank Samir for the Mac and Cheese then head for their homes. Samir grabs a steak from the fridge for seconds and mumbles a goodbye through the meat.

Reece: That went well right?

Samir: *through food* think so

Reece: What did the voice in your head think

Aw, he likes me. He likes me. He would like me more.

Samir: It’s… positive? I'm not sure. I’m just going to go remark the property okay? Won't be a minute

Samir heads out and the snow is falling heavily. He finishes marking and zips back up before he freezes. He's a werewolf but that doesn't mean he wants to take chances with losing his pixel parts to frostbite.

So darn cold. Would be warm if you shifted. We could go kill something. I’m fine like this but thanks for the suggestion? If you're fine stop complaining about the cold. I’m not-

Reece: Hey, you alright?

Samir: Huh?

Samir spins around. He hadn't heard Reece come out since he was busy arguing with the voice.

Reece: Is the voice in your head bad

Samir: I think it’s just rattled after the company

Reece: Well... I have an idea to wind down

Samir: I don’t think this will wind me down. it's more likely to rev me up

Reece: Just try boss

While Samir had been arguing in his head outside Reece had run them a bath. Although with Samir’s prompting they were going to share it.

Reece: The hot water is meant to be soothing and *squeaks*

Samir chuckles as he pulls Reece in on top of him

Samir: You’re plenty soothing

The two kiss and Reece settles into Samir’s arms.

Reece: You’re glowing red again

Samir: I am? But I don’t feel off or anything

Reece: Well it’s pretty

Samir: I don’t want to be pretty

Reece: Too bad, you’re the prettiest guy around *kisses*

Reece lays back letting Samir hold his weight and Samir feels himself calm. If the voice in his head has any comments he can’t hear them. All he can hear is the sounds of his heart and his partner’s breathing.

Reece: What are you thinking about lover

Samir: How you’re actually the prettiest guy around

Reece: *chuckles* Copy cat

Samir: Copy wolf

Reece: *sighs* Why didn’t I think of that

Samir: You think plenty gorgeous, it’s okay to shut off for a while

Reece hums to himself and Samir works on his neck, making sure the hickey will stay there. Time ticks by and the warm water coupled with his fated mate's company helps Samir relax and be in the moment. Eventually though the water cools down and Samir suggests they get up before Reece catches a chill.

Samir: *points to neck* You know we don’t have to keep that up

Reece: I want to. It’s that or-

Samir: I really don’t think me biting you as a werewolf is a good idea

Reece: I’ve learned a bunch in my courses. We could treat it so it’ll be a nice scar, no danger of infection. Just think about it. I'd like a permanent mark from you. Now, come to bed

Samir: Let me dry you off first. No twitching

Reece: *laughs* I’m going to fail already, I can tell

Previous ... Next

[the-stars-in-between]

DAY 2 : Again.

Luffy relives the worst day of his life, over and over again.

I wasn't inspired by today's prompts so I chose one of the alternatives: Time Loop. Since I didn't have time to write everything, I'll post loop by loop as I go along, instead of all at once. This story is quite hard to read (and write), so pay attention to the warnings and take care of yourself above all <3 Trigger Warnings: - Graphic Description of Violence - Blood and Injuries - Burns - Major Character Death Fandom : One Piece (Anime & Manga) Character(s) : Monkey D. Luffy Relationship(s) : Monkey D. Luffy & Portgas D. Ace Words Count : 1,548 No. 2: ALTERNATIVE  Time Loop

First Loop

Luffy struggled to retrieve Ace's Vivre Card that was slipping from his fingers. It was in front of him, just inches away, and yet unreachable. He didn't really know why, but he had to retrieve that Vivre Card. It was important, it was a part of Ace. He couldn't lose it. Nothing else mattered. The outside world faded into the background around him — the screams of agony, the smell of blood and smoke, the corpses he was stepping on to escape — leaving only the small burning piece of paper in his field of vision. 

(Ace had been burned by Akainu. His big brother, the one who always walked two steps ahead of him, unreachable and strong , the living embodiment of fire, had been burned . Sabo had died in the flames of an explosion. Luffy had forgotten it, but big brothers could burn too.)

Luffy's hand finally closed around Ace's Vivre Card and the panic that clouded his mind subdued. He had succeeded, Ace wouldn't leave him.

He had promised.

“You won't leave here alive!”

Luffy looked up and met Ace's desperate gaze. Why was Ace looking at him like that? He should be happy, Luffy had his Vivre Card back.

“Luffy!”

The flaming fist of Absolute Justice charged at him, invading his field of vision until all he could see was flames — stories whispered by a campfire, the burn of the Grey Terminal fire on his skin, Ace's arm around his shoulders in the middle of winter — and bloody red.

Oh.

Luffy wanted to move, should have moved, but he couldn't. The world was so fast when he was so slow, exhaustion slowing all his movements to the very core of his bones.

(If his crew was there, he could have rested for five minutes before going back into battle, but Luffy was alone .)

Suddenly, without Luffy understanding what was happening — he was so tired — Ace was in front of him, smiling sadly. Luffy's eyes widened in horror as he noticed the fist through Ace's body. The smell of burning flesh hit him in the face and Ace vomited blood, a retch shaking his entire body.

Akainu stepped back, removing his fist from Ace's body carelessly, Ace's guts falling to the ground, bloody and steaming. There was a hole in Ace's torso, where his lungs should have been. The skin around the wound was burned raw, sizzling with blisters and peeling away to the bone. And amidst the mess of ruined and damaged flesh, hidden behind his broken ribs, his brother's still beating heart. 

Thud, thud, thud.

Luffy focused on Ace's fading heartbeat, clinging to his brother's last breath of life. Ace wasn't dead yet! Luffy could still save him. Luffy remembered yelling at Akainu who was raising his fist once more to finish Ace off, but he didn't remember Jinbei and Ace's friends intervening.

Everything vanished when Ace fell to his knees in Luffy's arms. Luffy caught him, his hand red, red, red when he looked at it after touching Ace's back. Luffy placed his hand on the wound, trying to stop the endless bleeding. Ace slid into Luffy's arms, his head falling onto his shoulder, and Luffy tightened his grip around Ace, refusing to let him go.

"I'm sorry, Luffy," Ace struggled to say, choking. "I'm so sorry, I stopped you from saving me properly. Forgive me.”

Ace was breathing heavily, just talking, draining him of his meager strength. Blood was dripping down Luffy's shoulder in large drops.

"What are you talking about? Stop talking nonsense!"

Ace wasn't dying, Luffy could still feel his heart beating between his fingers. Ace wasn't dying. He couldn't die. He had promised. He couldn't die.

"Someone!" Luffy begged, screaming until his vocal cords broke, feeling the heat leave Ace's body. “Heal his wounds! Save Ace!”

Luffy didn't like the cold. Cold meant being alone in the night, cold meant an empty place in the treehouse. Cold meant Death.

"Luffy stop," Ace said weakly. "My time has come. He burned me from the inside out, I won't make it this time.”

And Ace was never weak. He was bold and brash and mean at times, a raging fire. Never weak, always strong. Ace was the reason Luffy survived Sabo's death. Because Ace was strong where Luffy wasn't, learning to be kind and caring for Luffy.

Ace was strong .

Luffy wasn't.

“No! You promised”! Luffy refused, understanding what his big brother meant. “You told me Ace, right? You said you wouldn't die!”

Because Ace was strong but he was also stupid. He forgot obvious things sometimes and Luffy had to remind him. Like the fact that Luffy loved him. But if Luffy reminded him of his promise, then maybe Ace wouldn't die.

“You promised,” Luffy stopped himself from sobbing. Ace didn't like whiners.

“You know, if it wasn't for Sabo, if I didn't have a little brother like you to watch over. I wouldn't have wanted to live.” Luffy's heart clenched painfully in his chest. “No one wanted me after all. So it's completely normal.”

Ace clung to Luffy like a lifeline, as if Luffy was the only thing keeping him alive. Luffy was terrified that he wouldn’t be enough to keep Ace alive for a little longer.

“Oh right, if you ever run into Dadan again, could you say goodbye for me?” Ace laughed softly, his laughter cut off by a coughing fit. “It’s strange, now that I’m about to die, I feel like I miss her.”

Ace’s breath was labored, his voice hoarse. And Luffy didn’t dare look — because if he did, he’d have to face his big brother’s dying face — but he was pretty sure Ace was crying, his shoulders shaking with silent sobs.

“I only have one regret, and that’s not seeing your dream come true. But I know you, you’ll get there, that’s for sure.” Ace and Sabo had been among the first to hear his dream, among the first to believe in him. “You're my brother after all.”

Luffy had two brothers. One had been dead for over ten years, the other was dying in his arms. Who was going to believe in his dreams now?

And yet Luffy couldn't do anything. He was frozen, afraid that the slightest movement would make things worse. The only thing he could do was hold his brother in his arms as he died, hoping that Ace would feel all the love Luffy had for him.

Ace was loved. He had to know that, right ?

"As we promised each other back then, I have no regrets about the life I led."

This time, Luffy couldn't help but protest. This wasn't how it was going to end. It couldn't be.

(Ace's heartbeat was getting slower and slower, more and more rare.)

"No, you're lying!"

"No, it's true!" Ace insisted, his fingers digging painfully into Luffy's shoulder with a surprising strength for a dead man. “It seems that what I always wanted in the end wasn't fame or glory. But just the answer to my question. Why did I come into this world? "

Ace had always been haunted by his past, by the past of those who had come before him, that of his parents. But Luffy didn't live in the past, he didn't care who Ace's father was. What mattered was the present, what mattered was that Ace was Luffy 's brother.

Ace was Ace and that was all that mattered. Ace had always been enough.

"Luffy, I want you to listen to what I have to say and tell the others afterwards," Luffy knew at that moment that his brother's words would be his last. He wasn't ready for that. “Even though I've been a good-for-nothing my whole life, even though I carry the blood of a demon.”

The fighting raged around them and yet it had never been interrupted. Ace's family fought to give them one last moment, one last hug.

"Thank you for loving me!"

Crying, Ace formed a smile on his lips for the last time. Ace collapsed in Luffy's arms, his hand falling from Luffy's neck where Ace had clung to during his final moments, leaving a trail of blood along Luffy's cheek.

Ace fell to the ground, alive one moment, dead the next, and Luffy screamed out all his pain and sorrow, inaudible amidst the horrors of war. Ace was dead.

Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. Dead. 

Ace was dead.

Ace.

Was.

Dead.

Ace was dead.

Years of memories flashed through Luffy's mind in a split second - all ending with the same tragic phrase "thank you for loving me", all ending with Ace's death - shattering his psyche to the last piece.

They were always meant to end up here - Ace, dead and Luffy, helpless - there was nothing Luffy could have done to change things.

“ACE!!!”

In the end, when the darkness reached out to him, Luffy welcomed it willingly. Luffy fell into nothingness, hoping to never come out. Not if it meant living in a world alone.

Click. Again .

[moodymisty]

Hi! I am a huge fan of your work and might have just binged all of your TBB fics in preparation for the season 2 premiere 🙈 during my indulgence I read through your kink list and the “helmet stays on” one really got me thinking how the batch (or any clone for that matter, I love them all so much) might use their helmets, maybe as a way to limit their partner’s senses (it seems like a fun combo between dom/sub and an armor kink)

Anyways, whether or not you use this prompt, I am always looking forward to your next fic!! Whatever you are willing to share with us I am more than happy to read 💕 Sorry for the anon, I’m still a little shy about being horny on main lol

Author's note: This has got to be one of the sweetest asks I've ever gotten, I'm so glad you enjoyed my stuff enough to binge it!! (also don't be shy about not wanting to be horny on main, there's no obligation to be. Anon is on for a reason)

But since you mentioned senses, of course the first person I think of is Hunter; And it's been a hot minute since I've done something for him so, why not? I hope this is up your alley!

Relationships: Hunter/Fem!Reader

Warnings: NSFW, Pre-established relationship, Armor kink, Helmet kink aka "the helmet stays on", Very light Dom/Sub dynamics, Clothed sex, Semi-public sex(supply closet), Quickie, Some light sensory overload on Hunter's part

It wasn’t your idea to stay behind at Cyd’s, not in the slightest. The last mission had run you ragged, and so Hunter had effectively forced you to stay back for this one, and give some time to recover. But you still had to admit- The rest was an incredible luxury that you couldn’t refuse.

Though it had taken well over an hour of tossing and turning to get to sleep at first; You’d grown quite quickly used to the sounds of five other people’s breathing, Wrecker’s snoring, and Tech’s mumbling. Without the unique symphony of the Marauder as a lullaby, it had taken a bit to finally nod off.

When you woke up that first night, it was instantly noticeable how much better your body felt. To have a night without waking up multiple times because of shift changes, or emergencies, and to just actually let your body shut down and recover. But as the days went by that became less noticeable; And instead, a tense worry began to replace it.

It’s hard not to worry about them, especially now that you aren’t beside them. They’ve been barely footsteps from you for so long to have them all this far away for so long is eating at you. Especially Hunter. You miss him, miss the way he’d sometimes sneak into your bunk and lay with you for awhile before everyone else woke up. Or how he’ll sometimes walk behind you and press his face against the top of your head, sneaking a small moment while no one is looking.

At least working around Cyd’s keeps you somewhat busy, and she lets you keep a small portion of the tips in exchange for keeping the bar running smoothly. It’s something;

Especially considering the last time you all ran out of credits you had to sell Echo.

It’s late tonight; The bar is empty after the last patron drank his weight and stumbled out, falling onto the sidewalk before recovering enough to toddle on home. Now you’re just cleaning glasses, counting tips and trying to keep busy. It’s tedious, mindless work, but it keeps your hands and head busy enough.

Busy enough until Cyd suddenly shouts from the back, having apparently seen something of note on one of the security cameras.

“Hey! The Dream Team is back!” Cyd emerges from the backroom counting something in her hand, while she jerks her head in the direction of the front.

“Keep your man busy while I count my credits, will you?”

They enter through the front mere seconds after she finishes speaking, Wrecker holding the desired loot in both arms. He starts moving to drop it in Cyd’s room in the back, while you dart past him and yell:

“Hunter!”

You instantly run for him, until you reach him and suddenly stop; Trying to brush it off and just smile.

“Oh, so how come only he gets the welcome party!?”

Wrecker, halfway to the backroom scoffs and crosses his arms, before Echo starts pushing him and Tech away. You had turned around, looking at them embarrassed.

“Lets just give them a bit.”

Tech goes his own way, nose deep in his datapad while Wrecker, Echo, and Omega all shuffle into one of the bar’s booths. You stay close to Hunter however, standing with only a short distance between each of your chests still only a few steps from the entryway.

It’s well been established for awhile now that there is absolutely something going on between you and Hunter, but everyone has pretty much elected to act as if there isn’t. Or at least, that they can’t see it. You don’t do anything that would ever hint at you being romantic within sight of the others, but the looks you share and the undertones are so obvious that everyone had eventually realized.

The whole thing is, complicated. For far more reasons that just your current predicament.

Both of you finally move away from the entry, moving to sit on one of the bar stools. Hunter takes the one right next to you, sitting his helmet on the bar and turning your way.

“I’m sure you’re happy everyone managed to not get injured.” Hunter’s giving a tiny smirk, watching as you roll your eyes at him.

“I wasn’t upset you guys got hurt because it was inconvenient, I was upset because I don’t like seeing you guys get hurt.” You don’t like seeing any of them deal with pain, no matter how hard they all try and shrug it off. You’re just as guilty of the same, though as the person treating others, you’ll always have an excuse for why it doesn’t apply to yourself. You jerk a head in the direction of the booth that the rest of the batch is sitting at; Tech having returned from where ever and is now sitting next to Wrecker.

“At least for them. For you I don’t mind as much, because then I can kiss it better.” Hunter coughs, looking away for a moment and shaking his head. You can see the way his lips twitch as if he wants to say something, but can’t quite figure out how to put it.

“You…” He shakes his head, letting you see a small smirk. “Glad to hear I’ll be getting your special beside manner.”

Sometimes it catches him off guard some of the things you say, especially so casually.

In his moment of looking away from you, your eyes instead turn focus onto his helmet; Which is staring back at you from on the bar top, tinted visor reflecting the scene it’s staring at. When you reach a hand out to grab it Hunter watches, as you hold it hovering over your lap. It looks so normal and lifeless here, but there’s something about when it’s on, that it almost seems like it holds emotion; No matter how silly it sounds.

“I never noticed that you copied your tattoo on your helmet…”

You hold it in your hands, thumb brushing over the scuffed paint. The paint isn’t solid; Patches of the helmets original color peak through the brushed streaks of lighter grey. It gives his helmet a ghostly look, which suits him.

In fact, suits him very well.

It’s a complete spur of the moment decision that has you sliding off the barstool, and grabbing Hunter by the hand. He follows and while confused, takes your lead, walking through the bar and towards the back. Hopefully before anyone notices.

They do of course, but Echo is smart enough to keep anyone from questioning your antics.

Hunter watches as you pull him in the direction of the supply closet, closing the door and pushing something in front of it- a crate. It’s small and compact in here, but it’s quiet. And it’s private; Which is the main appeal.

And it’s here you take quick use of that, as the moment the door is fully shut you step towards Hunter and wrap your arms around his neck, pulling his lips to yours for but a moment.

“Now that we’re alone; Did everything go well, Sargent?”

Well you’re certainly playing with fire now, he knows that well.

“Everyone’s on one piece, and we got what we needed.” He knows that isn’t really what you’re asking, but it’s amusing to watch you look at him like this anyways. You know that if you want him you can just ask, but it’s far more fun to play around. Especially after them being gone for admittedly not all that long; But after being around him every moment, it feels like forever.

In his quick glance over you he can see you’re still holding his helmet in your hands, having carried it with you in your rush. It’s pressing against your chest, as you look down at it.

Hunter is watching you intently, the way your fingers look so gentle over his helmet. Before he can say anything however you lean up, and quickly plop the helmet on his head.

“You look good with it on.” His chest is pressing against your own, unyielding, unmovable plastoid armor against your skin. He hasn’t taken one bit of armor off since they returned, he hasn’t had the chance to. He can hear your heart pumping faster in your chest, wanton as you look up at him. His senses never lie, no matter how much you can try to hide it.

He’s used it to his advantage with you, but it’s almost proven to be his weakness. There’s been times where you’ve overwhelmed his senses so much that he can barely stand it; Both intentional and not. In theory he could cut it off if it ever felt like too much, but he doesn’t.

You know that part of him likes it, and the feeling of being so close but unable to fulfill his senses that drives him borderline insane.

You can feel his hands sliding down your back, moving to wrap around your hips as your thighs spread apart enough to let him in. Instantly he steps between them, pressing his body tight against yours. Once you’re as close as you can one of his hands comes up to palm your chest through your shirt, though he’s unable to free them due to the nature of your outfit. At least not easily, though part of him more than enjoys the way your push into him, silently pleading for more.

He won’t give it to you that easy, not after so many times you’ve done him in the same.

He feels your nipple harden through the fabric of his glove, while your pupils dilate and skin flushes hotter. One of your hands even moves to grasp at his wrist and press it harder onto you, as your breath leaves a fog on his armor.

“You don’t even know how much I’ve missed you, Hunter.”

He can smell you want him, even though his helmet it’s so obvious it overwhelms his senses.

When you attempt to work around your outfit and take off your top, Hunter stops you; And you look up to see your reflection in the tinted visor of his helmet.

“Turn around.”

There’s no way to describe the way your cunt clenches at the way he says those words, distorted by his helmet in a way that makes it sound even more erotic.

Lifting up off the crate you’d been sitting on your turn around, attempting to quickly undo your belt in the process and abandoning the idea of undoing your top. While doing so, you swear you can hear his breathing through his helmet, ragged and already coming undone. It only worsens as he sees your pants pull down and wrap around your knees, the fabric of your underwear contrasting with the color of your skin.

It almost is too much, the way he feels so hot and tight underneath his armor and his own breaths echo inside his helmet.

His fingers are frantic as he peels away the only thing impeding him, hearing his groinplate clank on the ground. He may want to take off more, but the sight of you whining for him keeps him from doing so.

He grinds his clothed cock against you, the clear outline pressing against your ass. You quickly demand more, aching and empty.

“Hunter, please… Come on.” He stills, and ignores the way you attempt to demand him continue.

“You don’t get to say that. Not after what you did on the Marauder.”

That makes you smile, remembering how much you had teased him until he snapped. You feel the way he finally moves the fabric of his body glove aside just enough to free his cock, feeling it lay against your cunt. He feels so hot it almost makes you jolt, body tighten as he grinds against you.

Only a short while later does he slowly attempt to press the tip of his cock inside of you, listening to the way you gasp. Your toes curl in your boots, and you can’t control the way you suddenly jolt when the cold plastoid of his thigh armor brushes against the bare skin of you ass. Hunter abruptly stops, having felt your body stiffen.

“You ok?” He asks when he feels you jolt and tighten around him, his hands around your hips loosening their grip.

“Yeah; Your armor is so cold…”

It feels good, but it was just a shock to have it suddenly against your skin. But now knowing he has the green light, he slowly pulls part way out of you before slowly thrusting forward and pulling your hips enough to meet him halfway.

The feeling of so many sounds echoing in his helmet has his senses on overdrive, not even considering how loud everything might be in the room itself. It isn’t as if you’re being particularly quiet; Moaning his name as he slams his cock into you. At least the door is made of metal, and it’s unlike any of quieter sounds will pierce it.

Apart from perhaps the shaky moan you let out as he presses against a bundle of nerves deep inside your cunt, enough to have you almost seeing stars.

“Shit,”

His helmets distorts his voice, making it seem almost more gritted, angrier than normal. It amplifies how tense he sounds, almost as much as his body as you feel his armor hit the back of your thighs as he fucks you.

But Gods do you want to turn around and kiss him, feel his skin on you so badly but he won’t let you; Depriving you of the sensation. Even if the unforgiving coldness of his armor feels so good too. It’s enough to have you speak up, hissing through your teeth for more.

“Fuck, Hunter… You can go harder…”

His fingers tighten around your hips, watching the way your top has bunched around the middle of your back.

“What, all the sudden you’re open to pleas of mercy?” Your throat tightens.

Of course now is the time he decides to get you back a bit for torturing his senses while stuck in the Marauder, and he’d pleaded for you to stop. You hadn’t listened, and now it seems he’s going to attempt to let you feel just a fraction of what you’d done to him.

It seems unfair; Unable to kiss him or touch his skin while he fucks you. Though you’d done worse to him, a man with senses multitudes stronger than your own.

“Do you, fuck… Do you want an apology?”

The edges of his thigh armor press against the skin of your ass and will more than likely leave marks, unforgiving against your much softer skin.

“No. I want you to feel what it’s like to not get what you want.”

His thrusts slow until he’s only grinding against you, feeling the way your cunt leaks all over his cock. Your thighs keep tensing as you attempt to press against him, feeling so, so close but having him deny you. You can’t feel the heat of his skin, the roughness of his hands or his hair against your cheek; As he looms over your body with a black, grey and red silhouette.

He looks almost like a ghost, when you turn to look at him for just a moment. The dim, mostly broken lights of the tiny storage closet only further the illusion.

He swears he can almost hear his teeth grind against each other when he cums, filling you as you grind against him for more. His visor is becoming fogged from the amount of his hot breath, too much for the filters to try and fight against. It’s never fogged before; But granted, he’s never fucked you while he’s had it on.

He feels you cum around him, gripping the crate your bent over so tight as you intake a breath and hold it long enough he almost tells you to breath. Your fingers grip the crate your bent over with such a tight grip it almost is turning your knuckles white, seeing stars as he fucks you slowly through it all.

Gods, you missed him. Even in the short time he was gone.

When he slowly pulls out of you, you take the time to turn and sit on your bottom instead; Legs partly spread and sore.

The entire state of you looking like this almost as Hunter’s blood pumping again.

“So, can I kiss you now?” You look up at him, face red and lips ever so slightly parted. He takes off his helmet and leans down, pressing a hand against the wall behind you to support himself as he kisses you. It feels ten times more intense after being denied for so long, you can’t help the way your hands quickly around the back of his neck fingers slipping into his hair.

“I missed you too, you know.”

He mumbles it against your lips and feels the way you smile back, giving a satisfied laugh.

“Then don’t leave me behind again? Ok?”

[choicesmonthlychallenge]

Choices August Challenge 2023

This month's challenge will be a little different. The previous host had to back out so I am taking over... however, I was already planning on hosting 2 celebration weeks in August, which with the 2 book clubs would leave me with 5 events, and that's too much, even for me. So we're making August a combination month!

PlayChoice Game's 7th birthday is August 17th, so instead of having a birthday week, I'm including prompts for this event below and it'll run through the entire month of August.

There will also be prompts for Hollywood U + High School Story, as it's been one year since PB pulled those games. Without their success, we might not have gotten Choices.

Also, I've rescheduled sibling appreciation week a few times, so let's just add that in.

I also have some August holidays and summer prompts.

And lastly, similar to @choicesprompts, if you have a WIP from a previous challenge or event from this year that you really want to finish, feel free to submit it here too (regardless of the prompt). Let's clean out some WIPs.

Any of the prompts below can be used with any story/characters. They do not have to be used in the context of the "theme" they're posted under.

Happy Birthday, Choices!

In addition to the prompts below, posts celebrating Choices and your favorites (MCs, LIs, Friend Groups, Books, etc), will be accepted regardless of if a specific prompt is used

baking a cake

blowing out candles / making a wish

the perfect gift

surprising them with their favorite flowers

surprise party

spa break

"I'm sorry did you just call my/your birthday my 'womb escape'??"

“Are you crying? Please don’t cry, I didn’t think the gift was that bad-"

"I never liked celebrating my birthday."

"I don’t think fighting for my life is an acceptable way to celebrate my birthday"

"I’d rather eat you than cake."

"Put down the frosting!"

Hollywood U + High School Story Appreciation

Just like last year's event, any and all HWU and HSS content will be accepted regardless of if a specific prompt is used

movie premiere / red carpet

behind the scenes

coffee (all the coffee)

library dates/sneaking around in the stacks

falling asleep watching a movie

classes at HWU related to your MC's field of study

"Does a ninety minute movie really warrant this amount of snacks?"

"Your taste in movies is so bad"

"I love you but I'm not watching _____ again" -----

prom

graduation

High School Reunion / Where are they now?

school clubs

skipping class together

putting secret notes into the other's locker

being paired up for a project/presentation

"I accidentally grabbed your notebook" (What do they find, doodles, writings, poems, songs, little hearts with their initials?)

"It's finals week and you forgot we have a history exam?"

Sibling Appreciation

Any and all content that is focused on siblings in the fandom will be accepted regardless of if it fits a specific prompt

teaching their sibling about/how to do something

teasing each other

being overly protective of sibling

"Could you just stop talking for once?!"

"Don't blame it on me!"

"Thanks for being there"

"Can you pick me up?"

Siblings would help you bury a body, but they wouldn’t bring out the trash for you, no matter how nice you ask.

August Days

any August holiday

August 4: International Beer Day ; National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day

August 5: Sandcastle Day

August 6: National Friendship Day

August 9: Hold Hands Day

August 10: National S’mores Day

August 12-20: National Heritage Week

August 18: National Couple's Day

August 26: National Dog Day

August 27: National Just Because Day

August 30: National Beach Day

Summer Prompts:

popsicles

sidewalk chalk

camping

fairs/festival

fruit picking

stargazing

iced coffee

sunglasses

Making summer playlists for each other

“it’s absolutely sweltering, how can you still want to cuddle?!”

“do we have any ice cream left?”

"Summer's almost over…"

“I couldn’t help myself… All the ice-cream flavours looked so good!”

Remember, you can also submit any WIP you have that are based on previous prompts from any 2023 event.

2023 Monthly Challenge Prompt Lists:

January ❤️ February ❤️ March ❤️ April ❤️ May ❤️ June ❤️ July

Guidelines + Rules

Submitted works will be featured on a weekly masterlist

Every form of creative work can be submitted: fanfiction, drabbles, moodboards, edits, drawings, poems, songs, sketches, and more—all are welcomed.

Work from any book and story from the Choices (and Pixelberry) universe are welcome (new and old alike)!

You can participate as many times as you want during the month

Clearly list the prompt your used

You can combine submissions for this event and others

Please add a cut to avoid long posts and exposing other fans to triggering/disturbing content.

If your work is NS*W please label it as such and use appropriate warnings. Adult content should be hidden under the page break.

You can get creative with the prompts. It can be a variation of the word and/or concept. It doesn’t have to be exact or literal. If the word inspires a train of thought that led you to something different, put that in the notes and send it in! Have fun with it! Make them work for you! The ultimate goal is just to find joy in creating!

Please tag @choicesmonthlychallenge​​ and if you’d like to add me you can do so as well~ @lovealexhunt​​​ (feel free to DM me your work too since Tumblr tags are fickle)

[perfectpaperbluebirds]

Sicktember #26

Prompt: Pinkeye/Conjuntivitis ALL ALTS (Alt 1. “I Could Really Use a Hug Right About Now”//Alt 2. Fuzzy Socks//Alt 3. Pounding Headache//Alt 4. Forehead Kisses//Alt 5. “I’m so sorry”)

Fandom/OCs: OCs Shane and Molly (Doctor Nurse ‘verse?)

Words: 1180

Sicknario inspo: "Something happen at work?" from this post and "You look… I know…" from this post.

Author’s comments/background: Since I only had one space for an Alternate prompt this year, and they were all cute, I made it a mini challenge to use them all, and who better to do that for than Shane and Molly? I was pretty happy with the result, and this ended up being another piece that I was really looking forward to writing. I actually saved it for last as a reward for finishing the challenge. Have the usual married-people-who-are-crazy-about-each-other shenanigans. (Also some of the ending dialogue was shamelessly stolen from the D/ick Van D/yke show and I'm not sorry.)

Set the day after the events of “Without You” (read it here), which takes place within the first year of their marriage. 

~~~***~~~

Molly was deep in thought about what Shane might like for dinner, so when she turned to find him walking through the door a full three hours earlier than usual, at first she thought she was imagining it. Their eyes met and, probably because she looked so shocked, he attempted a smile to put her at ease, but the obvious sickliness of him made her worry all the more instead.

"Shane! You're home early. Did something happen at work?"

"Hihh– hihhggIHHTCHHOO! IHHXXCHOO!... Ugh…"

"...Oh. I see. Yeah, I can definitely see. Wow, you look–"

“I know,” Shane mumbled, swallowing thickly as he massaged his temple. “I know… HihhxxEHHPTchuhh!! Oh my god," he groaned, pressing his hand even harder to his head. "I have had the worst pounding, splitting headache all day and the sneezing is NOT helping…." 

"Aww, honey… why don't you sit down and take it easy for a while?"

"I will, but first… I know I'm contagious and everything but… I could really use a hug right about now." He dropped his bag and opened his arms imploringly. 

"Oh, you poor thing, of course you can have a hug!" She hurried into his arms, squeezing him as tightly as she could, and he squeezed her back until her ribs cracked, his face buried against her neck.

"I had the most godawful day," he mumbled, sounding almost on the verge of tears. "I felt like shit and the staff were all crabby and being petty and the schedule was screwed up again and the patients were horrible. I just need to be home with you."

"My poor baby," she said, kissing his temple and neck and shoulder and every other bit of him that she could reach. Then she held on and squeezed tight, just the way he liked. They hugged for a long time.

"Are you cold, hon?" Molly asked after several minutes. She already knew the answer to that question since she could feel him shivering, but he was sagging most of his weight on her, and her hugging muscles were starting to get tired. 

"Freezing," he murmured into her neck.

"Here, let's go sit down and wrap you up. You look exhausted."

"I'm that too," he agreed, letting himself be led to the couch. Molly quickly tucked a blanket around him, dress shirt and all, and he nestled into the cushions with a sniffling sigh. She perched right beside him. 

"Do you think you have a fever?"

"I really don't know. This cold wasn't so bad before today. I have no idea."

Molly leaned forward, pressing the back of her hand to his forehead. It was hardly there a second when Shane twitched violently, bending forward in a half-stifled sneeze that clearly snuck up on him:

"Hihhgg-KXXT! XXTchhoo!!"

Molly was thoroughly caught in the spray. She carefully kept her expression neutral so as not to make him feel any worse as she turned away from his horrified look to wipe off the mist from her cheek and hand.

"Ohmygod, Mol… I am so sorry… I can't believe that just happened…." 

Shane continued to stammer apologetically as Molly turned to face him again, stopping him with a gentle squeeze of his leg. "It's okay, love, really. I know you didn't mean to. It happens. No big deal. Now, let's try that again."

Shane fell silent, though his apologetic expression lingered, as Molly again reached out to feel his face. "You didn't sneeze on any patients today though, did you?" she asked, trying to lighten the mood with gentle teasing.

"No, thank god. That's about the only thing that didn't go wrong today."

"Well that's good," she said, pulling away. "And you're definitely warm. Feels like a fever to me."

"That tracks, to be honest"

"With what?"

"Everything, I guess. How crappy I feel, mainly. The rest of this awful day."

"My poor Shane," she groaned, going in for another hug. "I hate seeing you like this. I'm supposed to be the one that does all the complaining, not you."

"Sorry. But I was overdue for a turn," he mumbled into her chest.

"I dunno about all that. But we'll get you fixed up and back to normal either way." She released him, meeting his eyes again. "You pick the order of operations tonight. What do you want first, shower, dinner, blanket cuddles, or bed?"

A sleepy smile spread across Shane's face. "All the choices are too good. You pick. You're the boss tonight."

"You're either very brave or very sick to say such things, my love. But your wish is my command. We'll go in the order I listed them, I think. I can't stand to see my human furnace shivering so hard, so we'll start with a hot shower, and you can even have the brand new fuzzy socks you just bought me, since I know you can't resist fuzzy socks when you're sick."

Shane was grinning now. "As long as you shower with me. There's always a risk of syncope with a fever, you know. You can never be too careful, especially in the bathroom."

"Right you are. You read my mind. Don't you worry, I'll be keeping a close eye on you. Everyone knows doctors make the worst patients." 

"Whatever you think is best, nurse," he said with a pathetic sniffle.

~~~

The couple settled into the rhythm of their evening routine, though they took it especially easy for Shane's sake and, true to her word, Molly hardly left his side. Shane was clingy and a little needy when he wasn't feeling well, but as long as she stayed within reach, he was in truth a very easy patient. 

A few hours later found them curled up on the couch with takeout soup and salad for an early dinner, watching Shane's favorite, the Jurassic Park trilogy. They were lightly reclining, Shane leaning partially against Molly with a tissue box under his arm as she toyed with his blond curls. When she thought he was distracted, she leaned over to press her lips to his forehead.

Shane was sharp, though, and eyed her with a curious look. "Was that for affection or were you checking my temperature again?"

"Sick person forehead kisses are always both, you should know that. Your eyes are looking funny, so I was seeing if it was worth it to get up and get you medicine or not."

"I'm okay. You don't need to do that."

"Hey, I warned you that I'd be keeping an eye on you. This is part of the package, mister."

"I know, I know," he chuckled, scrubbing at his nose. "But I don't want you to get up. I'm too comfortable, and I haven't been able to say that since you left for your trip. You're not allowed to move. Sick person orders."

"Aye aye, sir." Molly resumed playing with his hair, and Shane sighed in contentment. 

"What would I do without you?" he murmured, echoing back to the day before.

"I promise you'll never have to find out as long as I'm living," she whispered back, pulling him closer against her.

[betweenthings2]

27

I accidentally deleted the ask for this because I'm garbage, but I have written it. Also, thank you for the ask!! The prompt list is here and all the prompt lists on my blog are tagged as 'prompts.' This is another offering in lieu of The Big Light, pt. 2, which is still not done, but I really am planning on finishing it this week. Sorry. I am, in fact, doing my best.

27. If by any means the other has to get up, a series releasing and detangling ensues.

"You've gotta let me up," George murmurs. "I have work to get done."

"No."

George can't help but chuckle and strokes a hand through Matty's curls, blunt nails scratching across his scalp. "Nothing's gonna get very far if you don't let me get up, Matty," he tries.

Matty shakes his head. "No."

"Matthew," George tries. "C'mon. Give me two hours."

Matty makes a noise in protest, a little bit  pathetic and reminiscent of a kicked puppy, and says, "I'm comfy and warm and sleepy."

And George believes that--he's warm and comfy and sleepy, too. Matty is halfway on top of him, head on his chest and limbs tangled together. Really, George hates that he needs Matty to move, hates the idea of getting up, but there are deadlines and responsibilities. Matty has things he needs to do, too, George knows, but Matty is also willing to do everything at the very last minute.

"I know you are, love," George responds, "and I promise that if you give me two hours to get some stuff done, I'll come right back. I'll even bring you a joint."

Matty hums like he's considering, then asks, "Can we also get delivery from that Indian place I like?"

Bargaining with Matty, especially a sleepy, comfy, vaguely bratty Matty is a slippery slope, but George agrees, "As long as you let me get up."

"Fine," Matty agrees, reluctant, but he makes no move to let George get up.

George cards his fingers through Matty's hair again and shifts in an effort to begin untangling himself from Matty. Really, Matty is small enough and sleepy enough that George could just move him, but that feels a little rougher than George wants to be with him.

"C'mon, sweetheart," George tries, rubbing Matty's back. "Just a little while."

Reluctantly, Matty untangles himself, releasing his hold on George's shoulder and untangling their legs, then rolls over, fixing George with a disgruntled expression as if to ask if he's happy now. George isn't really happy now--he'd much rather stay in bed with Matty's head on his chest--but he really does need to get a few things done.

George gets out of bed, presses a kiss to Matty's forehead and tucks the blankets around him, and leaves. Matty does his best to look very sad as George goes, but it doesn't really work. He rolls over and tries to be comfortable on his own, which feels kind of hopeless and sad. He lets Mayhem jump up on the bed, even though George hates it, in an effort to find even a fraction of the comfort that comes with George laying next to him.

As much as Matty loves his dog, though, and he really fucking loves his dog, the comfort he finds in George simply isn't there, so he offers Mayhem a scratch behind the ear, then urges him off the bed and gets up himself. Rather than going in search of George, though, he heads to the kitchen to make himself tea. He makes George a mug, too, which he sets on George's desk wordlessly, pressing a kiss to his temple before leaving him to whatever it is he needs to get done. Matty takes his own tea back to the bedroom, Mayhem padding behind him, nails clacking on the hardwood.

Matty isn't really one to spent all day in bed, but he's been under the weather and he's tried and bed will be comfier than anywhere else. Matty lets Mayhem back up on the bed and busies himself with scrolling through his phone while he waits for George to come back. He comes back before Matty expects him, far sooner than the two hours he had requested.

"You're done early," Matty says, a bit pointed, when George comes back.

George shrugs. "Didn't want you to be lonely," he admits, climbing back into bed.

"How thoughtful," Matty teases, getting comfortable next to George.

George chuckles. "Cheeky. I did bring you a joint, if you want."

Matty shakes his head. "Just want you here," he says.

"I'm here," George promises. "I'm always here."

[sparrow-in-the-field]

20 Questions for Fic Writers

Tagged by @strangethings-everywhere ! Thanks for the tag as always!

I guess today is the day that you all get to learn about my other AO3 account since a lot of these Qs are about overall stuff lol.

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

44 total (14 on sparrow-in-the-field and 30 on idyllic_hummingbird)

2. What's your total AO3 word count?

232,723 on sparrow, and 944,120 on idyllic, so that's 1,176,843 total! Pretty nuts lol

3. What fandoms do you write for?

On sparrow-in-the-field I've written for tbitb, Stranger things, and one Ted Lasso fic (I wanted to write more for Ted Lasso tbh but I was in my Writer's Block Era, so alas it was only one fic. Maybe someday I'll write more??). And idyllic_hummingbird was my BTS account (yes the kpop group lol don't judge me).

4. Top five fics by kudos?

Awakening (BTS) has 2,638

Just Hold On (BTS) has 2,234

A Secret for Shy Affection (BTS) has 2,122

Dirty Laundry (Stranger Things) has 1,888

To Build a Home (BTS) has 1,878

(rip to my smaller fandom fics for this question 🥲 lol)

5. Do you respond to comments?

Yes!! I love responding to comments, I always respond! One of the best parts of writing ff is the sense of community and I love talking about writing so if you comment I will reply!!

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angriest ending?

I only write happy endings lol. I guess my least happy/most ambiguous ending was for my gigantic BTS fic Heartbeats in Stone...so much happened to the boys in that one it felt wrong for everything to wrap up with a perfect happy ending, so I left it more as "not everything is okay rn but maybe with time it will be"

7. What is the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

All my fics have happy endings, idk how to quantify which is the happiest! I guess I'll shout out my tbitb fic The Quiet Act of Loving Someone because I think that one had whole lot of joy in the last chapter and it always gives me the warm fuzzies :')

8. Do you get hate on fics?

I have! The worst was on a taejin fic, I had the all too classic, someone mad at who I had top/bottom in smut discourse 🙃 I was younger back then so I foolishly fought back and it became like a whole thing. Luckily I had a good support system in that fandom so I ended up okay. But there for awhile I was just tagging everything as switching so those type of people would leave me alone lol (can I just say, very glad that no one seems to care about that stuff in this current fandom.)

9. Do you write smut?

I think more of my fics include smut than don't lol. Writing smut is very important to me, it's healing. I see it as an ode to my past self, because I used to have a lot of shame around sex, and writing smut helped me unpack that like, a lot.

10. Craziest crossover?

I've never written a crossover.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not that I'm aware of, and hopefully not. But the BTS and ST fandoms were huge, it wouldn't exactly surprise me if it did happen.

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

I've been asked several times, and I always politely decline. Idk if it's selfish, but having a work translated requires relinquishing a lot of control, and my fics are so personal and meaningful to me that the idea always gives me too much anxiety to say yes.

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

Nope! And sorry to all my writer friends but I don't think I could 😅 I just write my own weird shit, the minute I try to write for a prompt or with someone else I just flounder lol

14. All time favorite ship

I have never been able to have just one! In my BTS days I literally wrote poly ot7 because I wanted to write all the ships lol. In tbitb I thought I'd only write Bobby/Don and then fell in love with Chuck/Roger too and want to write Jim/Shorty. I'm hopeless at picking favorites of things lolol

15. What's a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will?

This is going to make me sound like an asshole, but I don't ever start writing fics unless I intend to finish them. Did one of my fics take 5 years for me to write? Yes, but I still finished it. I guess if I include like brainstorming fics, I have several tbitb modern au ideas that I want to write but I keep putting off for new ideas, so. Maybe those?

16. What are your writing strengths?

I'd say my biggest strength is dialogue; it comes the most naturally to me when writing. I also tend to get a lot of compliments on my worldbuilding, so I must be decent at it, but tbh to me it just feels like I'm winging it lolol

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

I'm bad a descriptions, idk how to go on at length about how anything looks lol. And this one is terrible, but I'm bad at research. If anything I write is ever inaccurate it's because I was more interested in writing the story than looking up like...how boats work (looking at you, The Cormorant Don lolol)

18. Thoughts on dialogue in another language?

No thoughts head empty? Lol I've never ran into this in a fic before...and it's not something I'd be inclined to write, so...idk.

19. First fandom you wrote in?

BTS :> I was a late bloomer to writing ff, so everything I've ever written is on AO3.

20. Favorite fic you've written?

Again, I'm so bad at picking favorites!! They're all my babies lol. I guess to shout out a few: in BTS stuff, Just Hold On was the first ever novel-length story I'd ever completed so it's very special to me. In Stranger Things by far my favorite was Can We Always Be Friends? because I loved writing more platonic stobin and a lot of Steve's journey with his sexuality was a reflection of myself. I've been super happy with all of my tbitb fics so it's hard to pick a favorite! Tbh it'll probably be The Cormorant because the premise is so dear to me, but it feels like cheating to pick an unfinished fic. Maybe The Quiet Act? That fic got me out of my Writer's Block Era and introduced me to this lovely, lovely fandom, so of course it also holds a special place in my heart :')

Idk who to tag! @dogwooddiaries @kcsplace have y'all been tagged yet?? I can't keep up lol. No pressure as always!!

[spadecentral]

📂 400 Follower Special [All Fandoms]

>> rules: same rules for normal requesting! requests for genshin, obey me, and twst are acceptable :]

>> notice: different from other specials, there will only be one character per prompt. that means 28 fics in total.

this post will be updated every time there is another request for a prompt. if you ask for a prompt after someone else does, don't fret. if you are not on anon, i will send an ask into your inbox. if on anon, i will make a general post. happy requesting <3 you can request until there are no more prompts available

two characters max per request (unless poly first years)

1. "what are you do-" "look, now we match!"

2. "you're cleaning this up, right? since this was your idea."

3. "i don't think either of us are qualified for this but sure, go for it."

4. "shh- that's just what you think." "no, i'm pretty sure it's what i know."

5. "oh please, who's gonna stop us?" "the police."

6. "and why would i do this for you?" "because you love me." "not enough- fine."

7. "who let you look so cute today?"

8. "can we wait a second? i wanna take a picture of you right now."

9. "i think i'm gonna fail this test-" "it's okay, you pass in my heart." "that means nothing."

10. "this is unfair." "i can't help the fact that you're terrible at ______."

11. "since we're dating, does that mean i can hold your hand whenever i want?"

12. "i've been looking for my hoodie-" "my hoodie, you mean."

13. "i've always wanted to come here with you."

14. "this song reminds me of you."

15. "as much as i love food, i'm giving you the last piece just this once."

16. "you're cold?" "no? it's super sunny right now-" "take my jacket anyway."

17. "oh no, my head, it's falling conveniently onto your shoulder!"

18. "shut up and kiss me already."

19. "i've waited for so long just to say that to you."

20. "your hands are colder than the one time i lost a bet and i had to stick my hand into the snow for five minutes."

21. "you seem like you want ice cream."

22. "*resuraunt* is open, wanna go get some chicken nuggets?" "it's 3 in the morning." "and?" "let's go."

23. "you love me?" "i always have."

24. "what's that even supposed to be?" "it's a drawing of you, idiot."

25. "here comes the airplane!" "i can feed myself." "too bad."

26. "it's a 4000 piece puzzle and you've finished maybe 100 pieces max. and how long have you been doing this?"

27. "i know it's not the best but-" "i love it."

28. "i can hear your heartbeat- why is it going so fast all of a sudden?"

[haveaclock]

I am the most laziest person alive

I finally finished OC week after six days of non-procrastination..

what was I doing? .. Everything Total Drama nothing CS.

@carmensandiego-ocweek

Day one I actually made a drawing, with my fingers, because no, my dear readers I do not, have an iPad, nor do I have an apple pencil.

And whenever I draw with my fingers I put absolutely no effort into it because it's going to be a waste of time if I do but regardless it's awful.

Day 1: intros!!

Shánzi (Zhéngyì Beifong)

Shánzi is an VILE operative,origins from China, no you'll never catch the man smiling, he's never happy, and will never ever be. His choice of weaponry are just a mere pair of fans, but don't! Don't! Do not underestimate him, fans are some formidable weapons. He's usually unfazed by most things (though the lack of smile) but just, don't even mention anything regarding his past to the man, you might be–sliced and chopped.

Sparkle Shot (Millie Schmit)

Unlike her partner, Shánzi. Sparkle Shot, orgining from Germany, is happy all the time and "fun" to be around if she's not trying to end your life. Everywhere she goes glitter must be there and if there's none she'll sparkle it up! She was always a wild child. Her choice of weaponry would look more effective than her partner's, she carries an entire arsenal with her, but mainly uses her guns.

Robin Ernest (last name change is in due)

Robin is not in any way a wrongdoer. Originating from Tanzania (I'm going to change that probably.) She is one of ACME's most important agents. She will be the next chief when Chief Fraser retires from position , But for now, she is like Lieutenant. Though despite her role, she is surprisingly, calm and lazy, you'll find her slurping on some frappe on the job. That doesn't make her less important! She is extremely skilled in smarts and arts so whatever you do, don't slap the frappe out of her hand.

intros done!!

Now take random things I have here

"Woah Clock you're a gacha kid?! Cringe alert!!!"

"I'll shove uluru into your mouth"

Day 2: mission!!

Take the link and read. Okay I'll take the link

Day 3: Relationships!

Now take this one please

but why

Okay, I'm not sure if it's taking you to chapter 2..but there's a chapter 2..

Day 4: tragedy!!

I love angst the way I love my father..

so I was looking at the prompt for day 4 and I'm like.."didn't I do this 2 years ago"

incredibly cringe in need of a revamp but for now this because I'm somehow getting stressed by the fact no I can't draw full body

linky link

and linky link #2

Day 5: Mentorship

no comment

actually yes comment READ THE TRIGGER WARNING!!

Day 6: Favourite character

I was like "I dont wanna draw Nevada again.."

El Topo looks like Nevada - proud American

Day 7: La.Femme.Rouge.!!

I'm like "no...I cant.." then I'm like "wait minute! don't I have Carmen on file in Gacha?!"

..

yea

omg it's actually done so horribly...

It looked decent but then I had technical difficulties and I had to restart and I was just fed up..

But anyways..

IM FINSIHED!!!!

Yay!!

(I was finished a day ago..but it never saved on Tumblr..)

@carmensandiego-ocweek