#i'm so glad me and my sis stopped visiting them

[onewingedangels]

i really would never understand my uncle's side of family who are more privileged than my family will ever be and yet that they, especially his wife and her spoiled grown ass kids, will always get jealous and mad that we get better or could pay off something expensive for once in our lives, like why are you like this when you can always afford everything in your life? wtf have we ever done to you that we deserve to be treated with no respect???

[aperrywilliams]

Tin Wedding (Spencer Reid x ExWife!Reader)

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Author Masterlist | Event Masterlist

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Pairing: Spencer Reid x ExWife!Reader.

Summary: You've become friends with Penelope Garcia over the past year, and after much insistence from her, you agreed to visit her at her office one day. What you didn't expect was to run into your ex-husband there. And surely you didn't expect that he - Spencer Reid - is Penelope's coworker.

Word Count: 7.2k (please, stop me!)

Warnings: Yes. I set this one as +16. Mention of Reader being drunk. Curses and some strong words. Mention of sex - oral (m&f). Nothing detailed. IDFK anything about the US marriage and divorce system.

A/N: 2nd Fic for the "We are not gonna make it" writing challenge I was hosting during October with my sis @babymetaldoll. I'm so sorry for the delay, but life has crushed me these past weeks.

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The ding of the elevator signals you are already on the sixth floor. The doors open, and the first thing you see are people going and coming. It's the bustling of a lively office at noon. But this is not just any office; this is the FBI headquarters in Quantico. You never thought you would be in a place like this in your life, but here you are after your friend Penelope convinced you to visit her at work after insisting for weeks.

BAU - Behavioural Analysis Unit reads the glass doors in front of you. This is the place. Looking at the scattered desks on the open floor, you look for a clue that leads you to Penelope.

People walk past you without paying much attention. Maybe you should ask for help. But before you can decide to do so, a voice behind your back breaks you out of your thoughts.

"Can I help you?"

You know that voice. You're sure of that. But wait. It can't be—not after years of not hearing it.

You slowly turn around just to confirm that your suspicions are correct. Standing in front of you is a curious Spencer Reid, who pales when he sees your face. He remembers you, too.

"Oh God, Spencer?"

A stupid question with an obvious answer, but that doesn't take away the surprise of coming face to face with someone you never thought you'd see again in your life.

"(Y/N)? Wow..."

Time has passed, you tell yourself. Spencer looks more grown up. His hair is a little shorter, and he doesn't look so skinny anymore; it even seems there's some muscle under the white shirt he sports. Some stubble adorns his face, and dark circles can be seen under his eyes. But his beautiful eyes are the same as you remember them from when you first met in Pasadena.

"What are you doing here?" You ask, still shocked. Spencer's expression seems pretty much the same as yours.

"Uh. Well, I work here," he explains after clearing his throat.

A Caltech's genius working with the FBI? You wouldn't have expected it. But then again, you didn't expect to cross paths with him after all this time. "And what are you doing here?"

Good point. Why did you come? Oh, yes. Penelope Garcia.

"I'm here to see a friend," you mumble. Spencer's confused look changes to what? Disappointment? Of course, you're not there for him. It's stupid ever to think that, considering you haven't talked since the day you said goodbye and parted ways in that tiny apartment you shared in Pasadena.

And then an awkward silence. What are the chances that after so long, you were going to meet Spencer? And if you're wondering how long, we're talking about ten years when you were both pursuing your degrees at Caltech. In your case, it was the first one because Spencer was already in his third PhD when you met.

Before you can say something else, the one and only Penelope Garcia burst into the room, looking for you.

"There you are! Why didn't you call me when you got here?"

Totally unbeknown to the tense silence, she steps in front of you and hugs you. You can feel Spencer's confused look on you. "I'm glad you made it! We have so much to talk about."

"Garcia is your friend?" Spencer asks, gaze on you, and it's when you realize how weird the situation is. Penelope turns to him, an eyebrow furrowed.

"Of course, I'm her friend. And she came to see me," Garcia scoffs until she realizes something. "Wait a minute. For what reason would you ask that?"

Spencer clears his throat. He doesn't know what your opinion is about people knowing that fact.

"We know each other," you explain to her before asking. "How do you know Spencer?"

"No way! What a coincidence!" Garcia chirps. The exclamation raises the interest of the people entering the bullpen. Some of them approach to where you all are. "Reid? We work together!"

What were the chances of something like that happening to you, you wondered, as Spencer continued to stare at you, his eyes never leaving yours.

"What's happening here, baby girl?" A toned man asks Garcia, who can't contain her excitement.

"Oh, you wouldn't believe it," she announces as two women join the conversation.

Garcia briefly explains to the audience who you are and that she just found out that you both know Spencer, too. After the first impression, she proceeds to introduce you to those there: Derek, JJ, and Emily. From the corner of your eye, you can see Spencer downcasting his look at their curious glances at him.

"So you guys know each other?" JJ asks.

You both nod at the same time as Spencer mutters, "Caltech."

"Ah, fellow grads," JJ assumes. And in part, she is right. Indeed, you met while you were starting your master's degree and subsequent doctorate in the same area as Spencer.

"Kind of," you admit, seeing Spencer's cheeks flush and feeling yours burn too. The guy who was presented as Derek Morgan has a smirk plastered on his face.

"College sweethearts?" Morgan asks in a teasing tone. And he is kind of right, too. You lock eyes with Spencer, and you can't tell if he did or wants to say to his colleagues what you really were at that time. But before you both can even think of saying anything, Garcia's eyes widen in recognition.

"No! Wait a minute! Did you go to college together? You said the other day that you-" she starts connecting information, and you start to freak out internally. Before you can stop her, Garcia blurts. "Oh! Spencer is your ex-husband? You have to be kidding me!"

Shit. How did she figure it out so quickly? Sure, it might be your fault for sharing details about your college love life with her on a night filled with alcohol, but how could you have known she was already acquainted with him? You were careful not to mention any names or specifics, yet here you are.

"Wait, what?" Morgan's smirk turns to jaw slack in astonishment. There is no difference between JJ's and Emily's reactions. Spencer's face is flushed, and so is yours.

"Someone is going to say anything?" Emily asks, bouncing her eyes between you and Spencer.

"Uh, well—" you start, giving Spencer an apologetic look, who returns you an awkward tight-lip smile.

"Yeah. We were married," he confirms.

"When we were at college," you add.

You can feel the heaviness in the air and the mid-surprised, mid-incredulous looks from the people around you. Morgan is the first to break the silence.

"Damn it, pretty boy. What a story you had hidden from us," he says, patting Spencer's shoulder. JJ - the quietest one until now - senses how uncomfortable you and Spencer are with all the attention.

"Guys, why don't we give them a minute?"

After a moment of consideration, Emily seconds the motion. "Yeah, Morgan, would you help me with something?"

"Su- sure," Morgan agrees, still confused but following Emily nonetheless.

"But—" Penelope is still trying to understand the whole situation and has many questions she wants to ask.

"Come on, Garcia. I'm sure (Y/N) will find you when she is ready," JJ encourages, looking at you. That's when you get out of your daze and nod.

"Yes. Yeah. I'll text you, Penelope."

And just like that, the same way people surrounded you just seconds ago, now it's just you, Spencer, and an awkward silence.

"I'm sorry. I didn't know you worked here. I didn't know you were Penelope's coworker, and—" you start to apologize.

"No. Don't. It's not your fault," Spencer rushes to speak.

"I shouldn't have told her about - about," you trail off.

"About you having an ex-husband?" Spencer supplies, and you shyly nod.

"Believe me, it's not a thing I tell everyone I meet, but Penelope, well, she-" you try to find the right words. Spencer nods in understanding.

"Yeah, she can be pretty convincing when she wants to know something."

Another halo of silence passes between you until it's Spencer who breaks it this time.

"So, how have you been? I mean, it's been a while." You nod, still uncomfortable with the situation but just as curious as you assume Spencer is.

"Yeah, it's been a while," you confirm. "Good, all good on my end. Working and living. What about you?"

"Me? Good. Working here at the BAU."

"Cool."

Cool? What does that mean?

A sharp 'Reid' is heard from behind you both, making you turn to the source. A well-dressed man with a serious gaze is looking at Spencer from an office threshold. "Can you come, please?" the man adds. Spencer nods quickly. "Sure. I'll be there in a second, Hotch." The answer seems to satisfy the man, so he nods and returns inside.

Spencer turns to you again. "Uh. I - uh-" he stutters, motioning where the man called Hotch was a second ago.

"Yeah. I have to go, too." You have to, actually, but you don't think you can face Penelope or anyone else right now, for that matter. "It was nice to see you." As you are about to run away subtly, Spencer calls your name. Stopping in your tracks, you turn, and your eyes make contact with his again.

"Would you - uh. Would you like to grab a coffee with me sometime?"

It catches you off guard, but you only assume he's being polite. You think you should return the gesture.

"Sure. Why not," you say, giving him a little smile. "Now I have to go. Bye, Spencer."

And with that, you resume your escape to the elevator.

----------

From the moment he saw you at the BAU, Spencer has never been the same. He never imagined he would see you again, especially under those circumstances. Spencer was so astonished he wasn't even able to start a decent conversation or even ask for your number after inviting you to a coffee.

Also distressed about the interrogation he knew his colleagues would subject to him, Spencer wanders through the BAU halls as if he were not in the present. And, in fact, he is not. After seeing you, he has only been able to think about you and the years you both spent in Pasadena.

A smile tugs the corners of his mouth every time one of those memories comes to him.

"Okay, pretty boy, spill," Derek prompts when he sees Spencer in the kitchen two days after your encounter.

"Uh? What are you talking about?" he turns, confused, to see Derek looking at him with a frown and arms over his chest.

"Come on! You know what I'm talking about. About the pretty lady, Garcia's friend, who happens to be your ex-wife?"

Spencer huffs through his nostrils.

"I already told you. We met in college, and we were together until we graduated," Spencer says nonchalantly as if it's normal. He tries, at least. Morgan scoffs at his attempt.

"Reid. You married her. You just can't tell me you 'were together' as you're talking about any other relationship. She was important; what happened?"

Morgan remembers well a few years ago when Spencer told him about a great love he had while at Caltech and how, from time to time, those memories would come to plague his head. It wasn't hard for Morgan to connect the dots and assume you were the person Spencer was referring to.

Spencer sighs thoughtfully. "We ended it by mutual agreement. We both knew our career paths were going to be incompatible, and we both had so many dreams to fulfill. Our greatest act of love was letting each other go. At least that's how I saw it for a long time."

"But you regretted it at some point," Morgan adds, and Spencer nods. "Why didn't you try to find her then?"

"I didn't want to be selfish. What if she already had her life going perfectly, and I was just going to show like a kicked puppy? It wasn't fair for her."

"Man, I get it, but what about now? You found each other again. Can it be a kind of sign or something." Spencer glances at Derek with an incredulous look.

"Are you listening to yourself? You sound like Garcia," Spencer grumbles, making Derek laugh.

"Yeah. Definitely, it's something my baby girl would say. But, truly speaking, Reid, why not take a chance?"

Spencer huffs in frustration. "I - I don't know anything about her in these years! I didn't even ask for her number that day. I was frozen on the spot!"

"And that will stop you?"

A satisfactory smirk appears on Derek's face when Spencer stays silent, contemplating his options.

---------

Not wanting to talk about the encounter with anyone, you write to Penelope, apologizing for having to leave suddenly that day. She responds everything is fine and doesn't even ask you why, to which you are tremendously grateful.

But as the days pass by, you know you have to talk to her at some point, so you invite her to come over one afternoon.

You have been thinking a lot and rationalizing everything that happened. Of course, there was always a possibility of crossing paths with Spencer someday, but turning it into reality is different. So you conclude all your nerves were out of the shock of something unprovable happening, not because seeing Spencer after ten years made you fall off your balance.

With that in mind, you were ready to talk to Penelope.

Once she gets to your apartment, you first apologize for leaving that day and explain how you got frozen after the unexpected encounter. Garcia tells you not to worry and even says she is sorry for telling everyone about her discovery without any filter.

"It's just- I was so impressed. I couldn't help it!" she explains, and you nod in understanding.

"It's okay. I guess no one expected something like that."

"Right? But I have to ask. How did Spencer Reid become your husband? I mean, you told me about your ex-husband and all, but I'm sorry, I can't picture Spencer even talking to a girl without stuttering, less asking for marriage, and then divorcing? It's beyond me."

It catches your attention how she talks about him. Although you met Spencer when you both were very young, knowing how shy he was, over time, you managed to beat his barrier and meet a wonderful man full of charisma and not so sheepish after all. Has he never shown that side to anyone else in all these years?

"Why so much interest in my marriage? It's been a decade," you ask Penelope, and her scoff sounds a mix of obvious and disbelief.

"Honey, it's unbelievable Doctor Loving Reid has kept THAT information to himself for so long. So now that it is out, it does pick my full interest. Spill. What happened?"

You shrug your shoulder. "It's like I said the first time I told you. We were young, a whole life ahead. Neither he nor I wanted to cut each other's wings."

"But you loved each other!" Penelope complains with an adorable pout. You have known this woman for what? Less than a year? And she seems brokenhearted about something that happened to you and Spencer ten years ago. She's right, though. You and Spencer were mad in love. Unlike what people have believed for years, your marriage was not a result of a wild night of alcohol and passion in Pasadena. You were both quite sober when you went to court that day. Both even had written down the vows you professed in front of the judge- yours on a piece of paper and Spencer in his brain, of course.

"If it's any consolation, the year we were married, we were very happy," you tell her, fondly remembering that time. Garcia rolls her eyes.

"Well, exactly that's what I mean, miss. If you were so happy, why end it like that?"

The only answer you can think of is 'it's complicated,' but that will surely increase her curiosity.

"We wanted the best for each other, even if it meant being apart. As good rational beings, we weighed our options, and the sensible thing to do was to end it."

Putting it in that way, Penelope can believe it. Having known Spencer for years, she knows for a fact his big brain is capable of analyzing every probability of every possible outcome. What seems incredible to her is how feelings - how love - can be rationalized like this.

A ding from your phone pauses your talk with Penelope. You glance at the device and see a text from an unknown caller.

'Hi. I'm Spencer. I stupidly didn't ask you for your number, so after cursing myself for the past few days, I had to find it out. Don't get mad, please. I would really like to grab a coffee with you if you are up to it. If you don't want to, I understand. And if you don't want me to contact you again, just say the words, and I'll stop. But I really hope you say yes. SR.'

Okay. This is unexpected. Indeed, you remember not having exchanged numbers with Spencer, and you didn't give it much thought either, assuming his invitation had been out of pure kindness. But here you are, reading the message and feeling an emotion you can't describe. Nostalgia, maybe?

You narrow your eyes to Garcia, who immediately suspects who sent you a text.

"Before you ask, I didn't give him your number!" she defends as you breathe a deep sigh.

"He's asking me out for coffee," you tell Garcia, and she can't help but squeal.

"Will you say yes?"

"I don't know. Is it a good idea to get back in touch after all these years?" you muse more for yourself than her.

"Honey, only you know what's best for you, but if you ask me, I remember you telling me after you both split up, you were left with a lot of 'what ifs' in your head, and some of them are still floating around. Maybe this could help clear them up once and for all."

Penelope has a point. But now, you have a dilemma in the form of a coffee invitation.

---------

It's just a coffee. Don't overthink it.

You have been telling yourself that for a while as you walk to the coffee shop where you agreed to meet Spencer today.

He is just being nice.

Sure, after ten years of no contact, this sudden encounter in the FBI - with all his colleagues there - maybe pressured him to invite you to grab a coffee.

Still lost in your thoughts, you don't realize you are already there. After taking a deep breath, you step inside and look around. You spot him in a booth in the corner, back to you. A smile tugs at your lips, remembering all the coffee dates you both had back then. It was your thing. Hours and hours talking about everything and anything until the owner asked you to leave because they needed to close.

"Hey," you greet, making Spencer look up to you.

"Hi," he returns, a smile plastered on his face. "Thanks for accepting my invitation," he gestures for you to sit.

"Sure. Why I wouldn't?" After taking off your coat, you sit in front of him in the booth.

"Yeah. I mean, we haven't talked in ten years. And then we see each other at my work, and- well, it's kind of weird, I guess?"

Weird is an understatement, you think.

"You are right. Kind of it is."

You notice there are two coffee cups on the table. Spencer follows your line of sight.

"Uh- I had ordered already," he points to the coffee in front of you. "I don't know if you have changed your order, though."

"Thanks," you mumble appreciatively. "I haven't changed it, actually."

"Great!"

You try to gauge his expression. Is he nervous? Anxious? Because you are.

"Spencer, if you are uncomfortable, we can just go home. There is no—" You can't finish the sentence before Spencer cuts you off.

"No. No, I'm not. Please, don't think that."

"Okay," you concede. "I won't. But you need to be honest with me, okay?"

"Of course," Spencer agrees.

"You felt obligated to invite me here after what happened?" You bluntly ask, and Spencer's eyes widen.

"What? No, of course not," Spencer immediately denies. "I really wanted to see you. It's just that-" he hesitates. You tilt your head, waiting for him to continue. "I just didn't know if it was right, you know? I mean, we never reach out, and then it happens. We never agreed-" he trails off. And you know exactly what he's talking about.

Back then, when you decided to go separate ways, Spencer asked you what would happen if you met again in the future, and you shook your head, saying it probably wouldn't happen. So yes, you never talked about the possibility, and Spencer understood he should never contact you, and so did you.

"I know. We didn't," you recognize, regret slipping in your voice. "I guess I didn't want to think about the possibility back then."

You two know there are things you left out and left unsaid the last night you were together in Pasadena, but you don't think it's a good idea to say them now—not when this is supposed to be a friendly reunion between exes.

"So, since when have you been working in DC?" Spencer asks after you tell him about your work career on the west side.

"Almost two years," you admit.

Two years living in the same city. Spencer wonders if Garcia hadn't met you, he would have ever seen you again.

Your professional career has certainly been prolific; Spencer can tell after the stories you have been recounting. Years of experience and important jobs, just as you had dreamed when you were in college. These are the same dreams you shared with Spencer during the nights of studying and those where there was everything else but studying.

"I thought you were going to pursue academics. When did the FBI happen?" you ask after saying it's enough of talking about yourself.

"I thought that too. And I did it for a while. Then I met Gideon. He - uh, he showed me what the BAU had been doing, and I knew it was my place to be."

Spencer fondly tells you about his early years working as a profiler and how much he has learned. It seems that, like you, he has found his professional calling.

Two hours and three coffees later, you are both laughing about the weird and funny things you have seen in the past years. It feels good, and much of the initial nervousness has dissipated. But there is one topic you both have actively avoided: romantic relationships.

You are curious about it, and Spencer is, too, but neither of you wants to be the one to mention it first. Spencer is who breaks first.

"Are we going to talk about - about that? I feel we have been dancing about the topic, but I don't know if you want to."

You can't help but snort out of being caught and for the subject itself. You are sure your almost nonexistent love life is enough to make anyone cry or laugh.

"I'm still that obvious?"

"You have your tells," Spencer shrugs. You raise an eyebrow.

"I have my tells? What about you, doctor? You have been bouncing your leg the same way you did the day you defended your engineering PhD dissertation."

Spencer's eyes widen. "You still remember that?"

The insinuation of you forgetting that day makes you scoff.

"Of course I do! I tried everything to try to calm your nerves. Do you remember what I did, and actually, it worked?" Spencer's cheeks redden because he remembers.

You won't tell the details, but you recall, as clear as the day, how you helped him to 'decompress.'

"Okay, okay. Guilty as charged."

"So, what do you want to know?" You ask, still not fully ready but resigned, leaning back in your seat and crossing your arms over your chest.

"Are you with someone?" Spencer asks, and you gasp, feigning surprise.

"No beating around the bushes, uh?"

Spencer's cheeks flush, and he can't help it. "If it's out the line, you don't need to answer."

Seeing him flustered and biting his lower lip makes your heart do flip-flops. It's something you haven't felt in a long time—ten years, to be exact.

"If you had asked me a month ago, I should have said yes."

Indeed, you had a boyfriend until a month ago when his insistence on moving in with you was too much to handle, and his frustrated self decided to say a lot of awful things when you said no to him.

Some people would say you have commitment issues, and maybe you have. But in all honesty, until this day, there is no one you have felt secure enough to take that step.

It's ironic, considering you already have a marriage under your belt.

"I'm sorry," Spencer mumbles.

"No. Don't be. It wasn't meant to be."

'Like I used to think about us,' you want to add, but you refrain. Instead, you explain in not much detail every failed relationship you have had. Spencer listens intently, his heart aching to think of how a part of you might have been broken with each failed relationship. He hasn't done any better, though.

"And that's all. As you can see, there is nothing too exciting to remark," you chuckle to lighten the mood. "Tell me about you. There is a Mrs. Reid waiting at home?"

Spencer snorts, shaking his head. "No. There's no Mrs. Reid. The only one who has held the title has been you," he says with a look that makes your breath hitch in your throat. What is it? Longing?

"Wow. I feel honored," you tease, trying to hide the heat rising to your cheeks.

Spencer tells you about the few relationships he's had over the years. In his own opinion, none of them are very meaningful. When you ask him why, he doesn't hesitate to answer. "This job not only consumes my time, but also a lot of me as a person. Not everyone understands that."

He would like to say no one has ever been so important as to make him doubt continuing to work in what he does. The only person who ever made him doubt was you. But instead of saying it, he prefers to end with a "I guess that's why no one has stayed."

Listening to him talk is like listening to yourself, trying to minimize the fact that professional success is possibly one of the main reasons why other parts of your personal life have never flourished.

It was your choice. You both decided to make it that way. But sometimes you wonder if...

"Do you think we made a mistake?"

Spencer's question gets you out of your thoughts.

You look at him, baffled. "What?"

"Do you think we shouldn't have broken up? That I shouldn't have left?"

You pondered his question for a second. It has to do with how you felt at that time? Or does it have to do with how you felt after or even now?

"Honestly? I don't know, Spencer." A resigned sigh leaves your lips. "I always wanted to think it was the right thing to do."

"You never regretted it?" He asks you, and you shrug, not knowing much to say. Instead, you opt to ask him the question back.

"Did you?"

"Yeah. I did," he admits. "Sometimes I still do."

A heavy silence settles between you. The admission that you both had doubts about the drastic decision you made almost ten years ago is difficult to take. It unfurls a whole new set of questions whose answers you are not sure you are ready to hear or say. But it's only fair he knows your truth as you know his now.

"For what is worth, me too. I regret it. More often than I would like to admit."

Spencer's heart starts to beat faster; breath hitches in his throat for a second.

He tentatively reaches out to rest his hand on yours. You watch the action and think you know what it means. His eyes are hopeful. Something you'd like to mirror in your own, but the uncertainty is there, and you can't help it.

"Spencer, no. Please, don't." You try to articulate but not take your hand away from his. "I wish I could tell you I'm willing to try- to try to make up for lost time, but I can't. Even though it may not seem like it, we're strangers to each other, and I'm not in a place to even think about- you know."

Spencer gives a little squeeze to your hand, nodding.

"I know. And I'm not asking you for us to redo our story and start from where we ended. No. But I would love to get to know you again and be your friend."

"Friends?" You ask, brows furrowed. He smiles.

"Yeah. First and foremost, you were always my best friend. My person. Even if we never get back together as a couple, and we don't have to, I don't want to lose you again."

You take a moment to think about his words. What would be the harm? You're at a stage in your life where you don't want to live thinking about those things you wish you had done and didn't. The things you might have done differently. Why not put reason aside for a moment and just be?

You squeeze his hand back, a sign of yes; you're willing to get to know the Spencer in front of you.

---------

Three months have passed since your conversation with Spencer at the coffee shop. You both agreed to reconnect as friends, which has led to many coffee meetings, lunches, dinners, movie nights, and walks in the park. And to say your heart feels full and happy would be an understatement. You've realized how much of the Spencer you met in Pasadena still exists, and the connection that once brought you together has revitalized and is stronger than ever.

Neither of you has wanted to rush things, and so far, you're both happy to be able to spend time together.

Spencer has also opened the door for you to the BAU team, which has been his family for eight years now. In addition to the bond you already had with Penelope, you now regularly attend the girls' night she hosts with JJ and Emily. You've also gotten to know Derek and Hotch better and understand why Spencer considers them like his older brother and father figure, respectively. You've also become a favorite of David Rossi, who doesn't take no for an answer every time he invites you to one of his dinners.

Like tonight, where you find yourself vividly chatting with the girls in a corner of Rossi's backyard.

"No way I could have passed Dynamics and Mechanics without Spencer," you acknowledge when you're talking about the most challenging subjects you had in college.

"It seems a very interesting topic," Emily jokes, not knowing what the hell you were talking about.

You giggle at the memory, cheeks turning a shade of pink.

"I still remember those afternoons Spencer spent trying to help me memorize the Euler–Lagrange equations and the Hamilton's principle. He made it interesting, if you know what I mean," you wink at them.

"I don't think I want to know," JJ muses. Emily snorts at the suggestion.

"Oh, I definitely want to know what that means," Penelope pipes. You chuckle.

"One night, he made me recite the whole equations with his head buried between my thighs," you confess with a mischievous look.

"Oh my God!" Garcia's jaw goes slack, and Emily's eyes widen in disbelief.

"You fucking kidding me!"

"Definitely, I didn't want to know that," JJ shakes her head.

"Well, I helped him with Applied Computer Science. He had to produce a code to operate a string of relational databases while I was on my knees su-"

"Okay! I get it!" Garcia cuts you off, with her hands in the air, as Emily laughs and JJ groans.

"You asked," you shrug, a smirk on your lips.

"Okay, okay. But hear me out. Since we are talking about college time, and honestly speaking, we all have had someone in college, more or less important, with whom to study or do other things," Emily prefaces, making you giggle. "But from that, to marry, and one year later to divorce? How do you get over something so intense like that?"

You have questioned yourself the same for years.

Looking past JJ's shoulder, you see Spencer talking with Morgan, beer in hand, and you can't help but feel the smile creeping on your face when he looks back and winks at you.

If anything, the past months have made you realize what you had back then with him was unique. But what you're having now? It is as unique as before and better.

"I don't think you get over it. And it's okay; you learn to appreciate it and value the chances life gives you after."

The girls follow your line of sight and share a knowing look. When they see Spencer approaching the group, they collectively decide to go inside the house for a new drink.

"All yours," Garcia whispers to Spencer before going in a bee-line with Emily and JJ.

"What was that?" Spencer asks you with a quirked eyebrow when the girls are out of sight.

You look at him, pretending not to understand.

"I assume they wanted a refill," you say with a shrug. Spencer nods and smiles at you.

"And you don't? Do you want me to get you something?"

"No. I'm fine," you respond to his offer. "Besides, I think I've got my alcohol ration filled for the night."

"If you're done for the night, I can take you home if you want."

That's the Spencer you know, always concerned about your well-being and comfort. You shake your head.

"Not yet. Walk with me, though?" You ask, extending your hand for him to take. Without questioning reasons, Spencer nods and takes your hand. The two of you begin to walk towards the pool area, where the sound of the music coming from the house is less audible.

It's not unusual for you to hold hands now. You trust each other, and it's been an innocent way of showing affection. And while the tension of something more has been building, neither of you has wanted to take the next step yet.

When you stop in the pool deck, Spencer moves to stand in front of you, his free hand reaching to tilt your chin with his index so he can inspect your face for some kind of clue.

"Are you okay?"

You nod as your fingers, from your joined hands, absently play with his. A thorough smile tugs the corners of your mouth. Your eyes admiring Spencer's honey ones in the moonlight.

"More than okay," you admit. But Spencer knows there is more in your mind you're not saying.

"Yeah?"

"Yep." You're stretching this on purpose. A smirk plays on your face. Spencer knows what you are doing.

"Good." His voice is amused. This game was one you both used to play back then, testing each other's curiosity and seeing how long it took the other to demand an answer about what the other was thinking. Usually, you were the one who won since Spencer couldn't stand not knowing.

"Have you grown patient over the years, Dr. Reid?" You ask, entertained. Spencer's laughter fills you with a feeling you thought was dormant inside you, but he has managed to refloat.

Not wanting to prolong his torture, and because you don't have it in you to hold back any longer, you decide to speak.

"I know you remember, but can you tell me the first thing I said to you the day I met you?"

Spencer's eyes narrow in search of the moment you're referring to.

-

You were in the library, busily searching through the shelves for a book you couldn't find. Spencer could see the stress radiating off of you. After watching you for a few seconds, he decided to walk over to the shelf, and leaning down, he pulled a book from the top shelf before presenting it to you. "Maybe this is the one you're looking for?" And he was right. Your first thought was, 'How did I not see it before?' and then you realized the weirdest thing of all, 'how did he know which was the book you were looking for?' You didn't know the guy, and as far as you knew, he didn't know you either.

Seeing your confusion, he proceeded to explain. "It was an educated guess, seeing as you have Fuller's, Richmond's, and Helbert's there. I assumed you were in Thermodynamics 301 and didn't have Priest's."

-

Spencer laughs before trying to imitate your voice. "Can I buy you a coffee in appreciation and keep you in my purse for future reference?" You nod, smiling.

"Bold of me for asking that to a stranger, uh?"

"Bold of you for thinking I would ever refuse," Spencer says in a mocking tone to match your joke. You both share a fit of laughter. Once it subsides, your eyes fix on him.

"Bold of me to think I wouldn't fall in love with you after all these years." Your words hit Spencer, whose expression changes from light to serious in a second.

"What?"

"It's like they say. At some point, something has to give. And this is my moment." You pause before continuing. "I can't say I'm sure what's coming, because I'm not. I also don't know if what you've seen of me these past few months is worth enough for you to love me again. But there's one thing I do know. I love you. I loved you, I missed you, and now I've loved you again."

Spencer is speechless. His brain tries to piece together each word you say. You take both his hands in yours, and you can feel them tremble.

"If you'll have me, I want to be the one that stays," you add, hoping your words are good enough to convey your emotions.

You don't know when tears start running down your cheeks. It might be when you see Spencer's glassy eyes.

"I do love you. And I want you to be the one who stays," he rasps before releasing your hands to cup your cheeks with his own, leaning down to whisper, "Let me be the person you want to stay for."

"You already are," you whisper back before closing the distance between you, allowing your lips to meet in a tender, sweet kiss. A new promise and a new beginning for two souls that were meant to be. Thanks to fate, or maybe not. That doesn't matter anymore.

-

As you kiss, part, whisper sweet nothings to each other, and kiss again, not so far away, are two people watching the scene with satisfied looks on their faces.

"Do you see that, Hot Stuff?" Garcia asks Morgan. A smirk appears on his face.

"Yeah, mama. I see it, clear as the day."

"We did it!" Penelope cheers, whisper-yelling, making Morgan chuckle.

"I should never have doubted you, baby girl," the man says, kissing her cheek.

"Of course not. But I forgive you only because I'm so happy our plan worked wonderfully."

-----------

SIX MONTHS EARLIER

Penelope Garcia's curiosity always gets the best of her. She has gotten to know you better in the past months since the IA convention where you met. She sees you as a beautiful person and a good friend. So when you told her on a night full of alcohol about your ex-husband and how important your relationship was for you, Penelope couldn't shake the feeling of wanting to know more, so maybe she could do something to help. Do what? She didn't know, but maybe more information about it would give her an idea.

Quickly typing on her keyboard, she finds a Pasadena Marriage License with your name on it. Checking the date, Garcia notes you had married in the summer before your senior year. It was expected. You already told her that.

What was unexpected, though, was finding out who the person you had married was. Garcia had to read the name twice before realizing the huge discovery she had just made: Spencer Walter Reid.

'No way! It has to be a mistake,' she squealed, fast-reading the information on the papers. No, there wasn't any mistake. You married Spencer Reid almost ten years ago. The same Spencer Reid she has known for so long and works with her every day.

But wait. You had said, ex-husband. Where are the divorce papers?

Typing again, she finds a divorce request signed by you and Spencer a year after you married. So that is true, too.

Overwhelmed by everything she has just discovered, Garcia is about to close the web tabs with all this data when something pops up: it's a court resolution dated six months after the divorce request. The resolution reads that the request has been denied because one of the parts couldn't be notified for comparison to the Pasadena tribunal. Garcia narrows her eyes and types again, looking for an updated legal document granting the divorce request. She finds none.

'Double holy fucking shit! They are still married!'

Without knowing what to do with this new information, she starts pacing frantically in the office. Garcia knows that the information she found wasn't for her to know, but at the same time, how does it not you or Spencer know this? She can't tell you, but she should, or maybe not. Grabbing her phone, she dials the only person she knows will help her with the dilemma.

"Derek Morgan. I need your delicious ass in my office right now!"

And just like that, a plan emerged. A plan to give a little push to destiny. A little push to you and Spencer cross paths again. Maybe this time, for good.

-----------

"And when are you going to tell them about their failed divorce?" Morgan asks Garcia, who is still looking at the couple giggling and kissing.

"Oh, shush. Let them enjoy tonight. There will be time for that."

Derek Morgan shakes his head, laughing. "Okay. You're the boss, mama. You're the boss."

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

Spencer Reid's Taglist: @dreatine @nomajdetective @jayyeahthatsme @rosalinasam2 @averyhotchner @lovelyxtom @princessmiaelicia @pastelbabygirl19 @reidsbookclub @alexxavicry @gspenc @spencerreidisbae123 @calmspencer @pauline5525mgg @anamiad00msday @milivanili99 @laylasbunbunny @leahblackk @miaxx03 @missabsey @taintedstranger @khxna @hiireadstuff @pleasantwitchgarden @dysphoricsanity @themoonchildwhofell @silver138 @lovelybaka @shinytinywhispers

[wishfuldivine]

Gaz waiting for Ghost after a mission?

His heart was beating wildly within his chest. It had been six months, SIX months since he last saw Ghost. It was pure torture, not knowing where his whereabouts were. That was part of being in the Task Force.

There was no guarantee of ever coming back in one piece, which left him with pure dread when he was not assigned for it. But, he had full faith in his partner.

"Glad to have your man back, Garrick?" Laswell asked. She was standing right next to him, waiting for the team to arrive.

The said man chuckled with a smile, eyes on the incoming helo in the distance. His heart soared happily, knowing that Ghost was okay and would touch down soon.

"You have no idea. Six months is far too long for me, Laswell. I need him like my life depended." Gaz replied, his eyes never leaving the aircraft that was now nearer.

Laswell turned to look at Gaz and smiled. It was such a very shocking outcome when it came to the lieutenant and sergeant. She couldn't quite comprehend how was it that they ended up together. But she could SEE the happiness when in each other's presence. Even if there were times when they had to remain serious and focus on the tasks at hand, they always had an understanding. It made her happy to an extent.

"You don't have to worry about that now, Garrick. He's back and will receive the longest break that is well deserved."

Gaz only smiled warmly. He will have Ghost around much longer than before. They had plenty of time to do a lot of things. Travel, visit family, and vacation. Nothing as long as they're doing it together.

The helo touched down, their clothes moving swiftly to the wind created by the blades. Then, the sliding door opened, and a couple of Ghost's team stepped down. Gaz greeted them with a smile and a nod, glad to see everyone safe.

His eyes then landed on Ghost. The masked man looked menacing as ever, but his eyes expressed exhaustion. It made him want to hug the lieutenant tightly in comfort.

The taller man walked towards them and stopped right in front of Laswell, he offered the classified intel.

"Everything is there. It will be of great help now with all this information."

Laswell nodded and grabbed the documents from Ghost, then turned around to walk away to share the findings.

Gaz noticed how Ghost cleared his throat and stared at him. It was a little awkward, like not knowing what to say or do. Then, suddenly, he was in his arms.

"I fucking missed you so much, love." Ghost's deep and tired voice spoke in his ear.

Gaz hugged him back, and a small sigh of relief escaped his lips. His mind was at ease completely.

"I missed you too. So fucking much, Si. I'm so proud of you for coming back in one piece. And taking such good care of your team. You did well." He said, feeling absolutely proud of him. His love growing even more.

"I promised you. I will always come back. For you. To you." Ghost replied, moving his head to press a soft kiss on the temple through the mask.

"I can't thank you enough. I love you, Si." Gaz said with so much love and devotion. He truly, madly, and deeply loved his man.

[silverfoxstole]

OK. Right. I've sorted my panel photos, which I'll start posting tomorrow (I won't bombard you with them all at once!), so I can get my thoughts straight about yesterday. This is going to be long; sorry! I'll divide it into two parts so that those who want to skip my wittering and just see the pics can.

I hadn't actually thought I'd ever go to a con again; my last one had been back in 2009 and they've got a hell of a lot bigger since then, which sort of puts me off as I don’t really like crowds, and living as I do right down on the south coast they're usually too far away. However, when back at the end of January an ad popped up out of the blue on my Facebook feed informing me that Paul would be appearing at Portsmouth Comic Con (less than ten miles from me) my heart skipped a beat and I started wondering whether I'd be able to go. Of course, there was nothing stopping me but I wasn't keen to go on my own, and I knew my DW-and-anything-else-related-to-scifi-fantasy-etc-hating sister would never agree.

When not long later I saw Sylvester was going to be there as well I mentioned it to my friend P (with whom I’ve attended cons in the past), lamenting that I had no one to go with and not really expecting her to suggest that she try to come down from Manchester so we could go together but to my surprise she did and so the tickets were duly booked. Fast forward to about three weeks ago, unfortunately, and things started to go - literally in this case - off the rails thanks to a driver's strike and then engineering work that meant no trains into Portsmouth for the 11th and 12th and P very reluctantly having to drop out because she wouldn't be able to get down here and back in time for work on Monday. Still wanting to go but not really wanting to do it alone I had no choice but to ask sis to come with me, which she very gamely did and I owe her. Big Time. It’s really not her thing and I know she didn't enjoy it at all. She works in town and made me stand on the outside in the queue in case she saw anyone she knew!

I had been worried about how I was going to react as I do suffer from anxiety and I've not been amongst crowds since before Covid, but much to my surprise I was completely relaxed, even when talking to the guests; I'm obviously long past my 'OMG it's Paul!' phase (thank goodness!) and instead it was a case of 'Oh, yeah, there he is, and Sylv and Sophie (a later addition, and one I'd been hoping for) too.' I don't know whether it's because they're so familiar or I just got used to actors popping in when I worked in a shop near a theatre, but it was easy and I'm so glad! The reflexology session I had in Thursday might have helped keep me calm, too; if you’re feeling tense I recommend it!

I had only previously visited the Guildhall for concerts (sis knows it better as she's had to do presentations to the city council in the past) so it was rather odd to be in there during the day. I have to say that I think they could have put aside more room for the guests as it was difficult to work out who was queuing to see who (ho ho). It was very warm and the setup also made taking photos a bit awkward with people having to dance round each other a bit. We went to see Paul first (of course), and when he clocked me in my NotD cosplay he leaned back, smiled and announced 'It's like lookin' in a mirror!' I honestly can't remember exactly what I said in response to that! Probably nothing that coherent! He asked if I'd made it myself, which gave me a neat opportunity to present the gift I'd made for him: an Eighth Doctor bear and Mr Bush bear.

I think i've wanted to make bears for Paul ever since I put together the first one nearly three years ago, but I never thought I'd get a chance so when I knew I'd be going to the con I started planning. I was originally just going to do the Doctor, and make a Seven bear for Sylvester, but as they were coming to Portsmouth I decided to do Bush as well since I can’t imagine Paul gets a lot of Hornblower-related gifts. Of course, when it was confirmed that Sophie would be there I had to make an Ace bear too and here they all are before I packed them up yesterday morning, sitting on the bags i'd also run up to put them in (not pictured, my terrible embroidery name tags to help me tell who was who):

I'll do some more detailed posts so you can see them properly another day, but I was so pleased with they way they turned out that it was really hard to give them up! At least I knew they'd be going to good homes!

When I gave Paul the bag he just looked at me in surprise and went 'Is that for me? Can I open it now?' and there was a smile on his face as soon as he saw what was inside. 'That's my career! Doctor Who and Hornblower!' He absolutely loved them, couldn't believe I'd made them and told me 'I have a room where I keep all the gifts I've been given, and these are going to take pride of place.' I couldn't wish for more than that! Well, maybe a photo of him with them but it was busy and I didn't like to ask and possibly hold things up. I hope he's found the alternative Dark Eyes outfit that I added for Eight bear as I had some fabric leftover from my jacket; the sonic for that one took a bit of ingenuity!

He asked about my costume again while we were getting into position (for want of a better term) for a photo and commented that so many people are paying someone to make their cosplays now and spending a hundreds of pounds, something I'd guess he finds quite astonishing given the incredulous look on his face when he said it. I could be wrong, but I got the impression that he likes to see what different fans have come up with; there are a lot of people who seem to be patronising Steven Ricks since Paul got his remade costume last year, which I can understand because the man is a brilliant tailor, but sometimes it must be a bit like seeing clones.

Jen took the photo and we were about to leave it there but then this strangely confident person I found inside me asked Paul a question:

‘Can I be cheeky?’

‘Sure.’

‘Can I give you a hug?’

‘Of course!’

Well, if you don’t ask, you don’t get! (says the woman who hates asking for things in shops) He gives very good hugs. 🥰

I did manage to let him go (it wasn’t easy!) and he thanked me again for the bears before we moved on to see Sophie, which involved going round to join another queue in the same small space. Confusing? Yep!

I don't know who here has met Sophie Aldred but you should because she is so, so lovely. Ace has always been one of my favourite companions and I was so pleased when I saw she would be coming. I'd already started an Ace bear with the intention of giving it to Sylvester with his, but of course that got changed and Sophie was smitten. She looked really closely at it, remarking on the little details - 'Oh, it's even got the plait. And a rucksack and baseball bat!' - and sat it proudly on the corner of her table, where I assume it stayed for some of the day. Apparently it's the best Ace bear she's ever seen - you can't get a better accolade than that! (My head was swelling somewhat by this point, by the way. I don't like to blow my own trumpet but I don't often get so many compliments, and never in such a short space of time, so i hope you can forgive me for including them.)

Last but not least, of course, there was Sylvester, which meant another queue in the same space, which was just daft as because their tables were next to each other you didn't know whether people were waiting for him or for Paul. I'm sure that could have been organised much better than it was. In the same section there were also two chaps who had somethng to do with Star Wars who weren't getting much attention at all which was a bit awkward. They haven't gone back today and I can't blame really them.

I've wanted to meet Sylv for years and he didn’t disappoint. He liked the fabric the bag was made from because its starry night pattern was similar to his waistcoat, which admittedly was why i bought it in the first place. When he got it open and saw what was inside he said 'Oh! I'm a little bear! That’s lovely!’ and when I said I'd made one for Sophie too leaned round trying to see it on Sophie's table. I half wish I'd made a set of both for each of them now but that might have been overkill, and I would have needed a rucksack of my own to transport them all; my bag was full to bursting as it was. Maybe if I see them again I’ll give Sophie a Doctor bear and Sylvester an Ace. As it stands I am so, so pleased that all three of them liked something I'd made so much, and Sylvester and Sophie were both also taken with the cartoons of the Seventh Doctor and Ace that I asked them to sign.

Phew! If you've reached the end of this, well done! I know I have tendency to ramble on and I commend your stamina! I'll put the photos in a separate post but I was one happy camper, especially as just afterwards i got another compliment on my costume and was asked to pose in the TARDIS! We didn't stay the whole day as it was hot, I'd pretty much seen what I wanted to (the Doctor Who 'exhibition' was just a few monster replicas, most of which weren't that good, unlike the really impressive experience they had last year for the 60th and which I would have loved to see. And there were no daleks! My ambition to hug a dalek sadly remains unfulfilled *sniff*) sis had developed a headache, but I'm very glad I went. 😀

[h3rmess]

WHERE OUR BLUE IS

Written by @h3rmess ✰

Masterlist

S3 : Chapter 9 - Strange Things Keep Happening ☆☆☆☆

༄ ༄ ༄

Megumi looked at me, bewilderment strewn across his face.

"Yo, kid. You good?" Shoji asked him, waving a hand in front of his face.

Megumi slapped his hand away, scowling at him before he turned to me.

"Do we seriously have to go with this guy? I mean no offence, but he's so annoying." Megumi whispered.

"I'm right there with you." I agreed. "Why are you even here? You told me you weren't coming."

"Well, I had to come pay my little sis a visit, didn't it?" He patted the top of my head, causing me to hit him.

"You're so annoying... Why don't you stay with Akiko instead?" I asked him with a frown.

He huffed before responding. "Akiko is sooo annoying. And she's so clingy, too! Plus, women disgust me." He fake gagged as I crossed my arms and glared at him.

Megumi was about to jump at him for his insult. "What do you mean by that...?" He was on the brim of exploding.

"Relax!" He said simply, holding his hands in the air.

"No. Tell me what you meant by that, or I'll kill you." Megumi stepped closer to him, looking up to meet his gaze.

"Well, aren't you cute? Come to think of it, you haven't even told me your name!" Shoji grinned down at him.

Megumi was about to summon one of his demon dogs before I stopped him.

"This is Fushiguro Megumi. Megumi, this is my brother Shoji. There, a formal introduction. Now please, don't kill each other." I looked at them, hoping to ease the tension.

"Fushiguro, huh? That name sounds familiar..." Shoji put his finger on his chin, trying to remember where he had heard it.

"Back to my question." Megumi refocused. "What did you mean when you said 'women disgust you' "

Shoji chuckled before answering. "I don't like women, that all. In a romantic sense, that is."

Megumi felt embarrassed. "Right. W-well, none of this is relevant now! Shibuya is in danger, and we need to help."

I nodded I agreement as I looked around.

"Where's Nanami?"

Megumi scratched his head, looking around.

"I could've sworn he was just here..."

"FUSHIGURO!" Someone shouted from around the corner. We all looked in the direction of the shouts. A boy in all back came running around the corner. Megumi's neutral expression dropped into an annoyed one as the boy came to stand in front of him.

"Fushiguro! I'm glad you're safe, my dear junior. Little kids like you need someone like me to protect them!" He exclaimed, placing his hands on Megumi's shoulders.

Megumi looked away in annoyance.

The boy looked at Shoji and I, his face confused.

"Who are these two?" He asked Megumi.

"That's Okumoto Seiko, and that's... Shoji." He muttered the last part.

"Why is that guy so tall?" The boy stared in awe at Shoji, who simply smirked down at him.

"What can I say? When you're this amazing, the height is necessary to showcase your talents!" Shoji boasted, striking a few strange poses.

The boy in black winced as I looked back at him, Nanami having hit his head.

"Ino, leave Fushiguro alone, alright? And stop talking to strangers." Nanami spoke sternly as the boy, Ino, rubbed the back of his head.

"Sir, yes, sir!" He saluted Nanami, earning an eye-roll.

"Pleasure to meet you, sir. My name is Okumoto Shoji. I'm one of the external sorcerers working alongside you." Shoji held out his hand with a smirk, waiting for Nanami to shake it. He took his ID out of his pocket to prove his identity.

Nanami narrowed his eyes, glaring at him with a hint of suspicion as he took Shoji's hand, shaking it once.

"Nanami Kento. The pleasure is mine." He spoke plainly, letting go of Shoji's hand abruptly.

Shoji continued to stare at Nanami. Nanami raised an eyebrow at him inquisitively. Shoji turned to me, a huge smile stuck on his face.

"Sei, you never told me you had hot teachers here! Damn, I've been missing out..." He ran his hand through his hair with a huff, shaking his head playfully.

It was silent.

Everyone looked at him in pure disgust.

"You didn't just say that..." I mumbled in disbelief, surprised by how upfront he was.

"And I'd say it again!" He reinforced proudly.

We all turned away from him, walking off. We walked down the empty road, the streetlights flickering as if they were on their last legs. The icy wind encapsulated us, making it hard to focus on what we had to do. As Megumi and I walked, our steps fell in sync. I looked up at him, a determined and serious expression present on his face.

"Are you okay?" I asked him, slightly concerned.

He huffed before replying. "I know stuff like this happens every year, but sometimes I can't help but worry about what's to come." He took my hand and squeezed it. I looked at him sincerely.

"Yuuji is with Mei Mei and her younger brother, and they're heading to Meiji-Jingu-Mae station. They sent me here to back you guys up whilst they back up Gojo. I believe wholeheartedly that whatever is happening, we will be able to overcome it no matter what. Don't let your nerves get the better of you, okay?" I comforted him with a smile as he took a deep breath.

"Yeah, you're right."

"No matter what happens, I'll always be here for you. We'll get through this together." My thumb stroked the back of his hand gently as we enjoyed what we would later find to be our last moments of peace for a long time.

༄ ༄ ༄

-> GUESS WHO'S BACK!!

->why do I post once a month it's actually bad...

-> so like anyways how has everyone been?

-> I've been so stressed bc I got my exam results last week (THEY WERE GOOD!!) now I have to find a school to go to...

-> anyway yeah I've just crying over the fact that jjk is coming to an end LIKE WHAT?

-> I'm going to be honest, where our blue is will also be coming to an end soon

-> I've really enjoyed writing this but 1. I just won't have the time to update it frequently enough and 2. jjk is too damn long for me to write the whole thing

-> so I will still be posting about seiko because I love her, but just know within the next 2-3 months this will be done

-> thank you all so much!! see you soon!!!

༄ ༄ ༄

TAGS~

@nyxlai @inlovewithlondonn @sad-darksoul @fushigurioo @httpstoyosi @vivi-loves-penguins @samutoru @lysaray @maya-maya-56 @madison777x

[duhhhr]

wow! I'm back tumblr!

280323

went to work this morning.. it's tuesday so i thought it's going to be quiet.... oh hell no. i hate it when people are ordering something with lots of changes in the original menu... also if they order something different and not the usual breakfast meal.. meals such us grilled chicken wrap, blt, steak sandwich and ceasar salad.. hnggggg i hate it! why can't they just order breaky special and egg bacon roll? 😋 but i'm really glad that my poached eggs are improving.. hehe.

so there is this person who was formerly working in that cafe as well. i like him, not romantically yet or i don't know. i just admire him for being stern with his decision. i like people who knows what they want and are good in decision making coz i'm not. also the owners kept on telling stories about him so he's been in my mind like everyday! not a single day that they didn't mention his name. 🙄 not to show loyalty or something but since we are both filipino, and i am really concerned coz it feels like we are talking about him on his back. i am telling him some stories that the owners told me about him. hmmm it kind of feel unfair for him and kasi haha i should have heared those stories directly from him but instead it's the owners who told me. so yeah we've been talking for some time now... i am the kind of person kasi na will say talaga how i feel and then regret it afterwards huhu. so kasi.. i was kind of really flirty rin hnggggg my bad. i'll behave na from now on.

also there is this turkish guy who's been wanting to meet me for i don't know how long na. i finally agreed on meeting him again coz the last scheduled date has been canceled. okayyy i don't know i still don't feel like meeting him eh pero maybe i have to atleast try and whatever happens i guess it's fine coz i'll get to see him personally and know him personally naman.

anyway, i lost some kilos nga pala. most probably kasi wala si ate dito. sometimes i only eat once a day.. yeah not a healthy habit. i just want to go back with my previous weight ☹️ hopefully i can reach it this March. my lowest was 54 but it's fine if i don't achieve that right away. i'm just hoping for atleast a 60kgs.

also yeah sometimes i feeeel sad and lonely. it's my fault rin naman coz sometimes i feel like isolating myself. it's really unfair to my friends... i know and i feel sorry. ☹️ i miss them but i don't want them to think na i am just making paramdam coz i need some comfort or something. there are friends who understands me naman specially julia 🥺 i super miss her. i miss my friends in philippines. i know i said i am not gonna visit philippines yet until i get my pr visa. but i think i will next year hehe coz my former work friends are organizing our get together travel. also i am planning on getting a boob job din kasi this december or january next year hngggg

speaking of, i will be needing money for that boob job so i have to really be cautious on my spendings hayyyy i am so magastos my goodnesss.. i have to stop relying on uber! it is where most of my money goes. hngggg i am not really a morning person kasi so it is really a miracle that i am working in a cafe. but yeahhhh.. i have to save money for it. i have been really dreaming of having that done for a really really long time.

what else should i kwento pa ba?

maybe tomorrow naman.. i gotta sleep pa coz i have a practical class tomorrow.

ciao.

[apinchofm]

Affair

Season 2 AU

The next time they saw each other, it was at the Bridgerton's Hearts and Flower's ball.

"Mr Bridgerton," Marina greeted politely. She was in a beautiful yellow floral gown.

"Lady Crane, Lord Crane." Colin greeted. Philip smiled politely, and shook his hand.

"My dear, I see a friend." Philip told her, gently "Do you mind?"

"Not at all," Marina smiled, and he left the two.

"He adores his plants. We have a wonderful greenhouse," Marina said by way of explanation.

"I do hope your children are also on his list of cares," Colin said, not without slight bitterness. Her eyes focused on him sharply and he merely raised his eyebrows in return.

"They are. He loves them," Marina defended, "And he is a very good friend to me."

"Better than I was," Colin said and their eyes met.

"Colin. I told you. Stop torturing yourself." Marina said firmly, "We made our choices."

"But I would like you to come over, tell me more of your adventures," Marina said and smiled when she saw his face light up.

....

"Hello again, Oliver," Colin picked him up, "Babies do change so much, don't they?"

"They do," Marina agreed. She was holding Amanda, the four sitting on the floor of the drawing room.

Despite all that was going on with his family, Colin enjoyed visiting the Crane household. Lord Philip was away a lot, so Marina found his company more than welcome.

"I've always liked the way you say things," Marina said, "You always made everything brighter."

"I am glad I can help you. Sometimes, I don't know what I'm doing. Why did I come back?" Colin asked.

"Men often have time to contemplate their purpose in life. Women do not," Marina said, sitting Amanda down on the mat.

"I suppose. I wish..."

"Stop it," Marina warns but her tone isn't as harsh as it was. Their eyes met, but she was not upset, more pleading. Reflecting on what could have been was too painful.

"I was an utter fool and cruel." Colin pointed out, "I do not deserve your kindness."

"You did as you were raised to do." Marina said, And they left it at that.

....

The kiss was an accident. Or maybe not.

He was going to leave. Colin told himself not to get too close, as she showed him her lady's parlour, the room tastefully decorated with a large library.

He was standing too close, inhaling her sweet scent as she described the French design that reminded her of her mother.

Marina turned around and he leaned down. She returned the kiss with equal fervour, her hands coming to tangle in his hair as his hands wrapped around her waist, bunching her dress in his hands and soon he was resting her on the large chaise lounge

Afterwards, Marina's head is resting on his chest, close to his heart. Where she has remained. He plays with her hand, occasionally kissing her fingertips and admiring the small ring on her pointer finger.

"May I ask... what else were you doing in the Greek Isles?" Marina joked. He chuckled.

"Thinking of you." Colin said quietly. He would not speak of women he had met. They did not matter, especially when he had the one he wanted in his arms.

"I have not... not since George." Marina admitted quietly. She turned over so she was facing him.

"We share a chamber more as friends, not lovers. He is not a bad husband. Not at all. But you are right, I do not love him." She whispered.

"Marina...I..." Colin whispered but she placed a finger to his lips, shaking her head.

"L’amour fait les plus grandes douceurs et les plus sensibles infortunes de la vie," She whispered and he smiled sadly.

She felt the same but saying it aloud was dangerous.

...

Philip isn't always looking at his plants and flowers as everyone assumes. He notices more than most realise.

He notices when Oliver wants to be picked up. Amanda likes to be held more, often falling asleep in his or Marina's arms. He notices that Marina is happier. She smiles more. But he knows he is not the cause of it.

And Colin Bridgerton, who he likes very much visits often.

"Colin is a very kind man." Philip said one evening, the two were sitting together. She speaks with him now, "I am glad that the two of you are becoming... friends again."

"As am I," Marina replied, looking up from her book. Philip smiled at her, that kind smile he always offered her.

"I rather expected to dislike him, to be truthful." Philip mused and his wife looked at him, amused.

"My lord?"

"Well, he was rather cruel to you and you cared for him. You mean a lot to me, Marina and so I should not like the man who is in love with my wife. Especially when she loves him in return." He summarised.

Marina shut her book, not even bothering to mark her page, her eyes alarmed, "Philip..."

"I know we married out of obligation, and have become friends, but you do not love me as you do him." Philip said gently, "And it is okay, Marina. It is okay that you do not love me."

Marina shook her head, "Of course I love you,"

"As a friend. Who has occasionally shared your bed chambers. But not in the way you could have loved Colin. I love you too. We are a family." He told her. She was by his side on the chaise.

Marina stroked his face, "I am sorry. I did not... I did not realize how much I loved him and he loved me."

"I just hope it doesn't end up on a pamphlet!" Philip joked, kissing her hand and the two chuckled.

"We shall figure it out," Philip promised, "I have wanted to make you happy in any way possible. And Colin... he loves you the way you deserve. We will do what we have always done - focus on our children and we shall try to be friends?"

"I would like that," Marina said. He truly wanted her happy and she kissed him gently on the cheek, "Shall we look in on the trouble makers?" They both chuckled and went to see the twins.

They could do this for now. Be good parents, and friends.

....

Penelope was confused to see Lord Crane and Colin speaking with one another. She did not think he would want to stay in contact with a past painful memory.

"Colin!" She nervously greeted him and he smiled at her, "I did not know you still spoke with the Cranes?"

"Yes, Marina- Lady Crane and I have become friends again," He explained, a mysterious smile upon his face, "Lord Crane is a friend too."

"What do you and Marina speak of?" She asked nervously, hoping she sounded more curious than anything.

"We are just ourselves. And her babies are adorable. Have you been to see them?" Colin asked.

"No," Penelope replied. He frowned slightly.

"I was awful to her. We were all awful to her. But she is a good person." Colin continued, "So we have remained friends." Friends was a mere understatement.

"She lied to you," Penelope reminded him, "Tried to trick you into marriage?"

"To protect herself and her children. Not because she didn't feel anything for me," Colin defended, "If Whistledown hadn't done what she did, I probably would have been a lot happier. With her. As her husband and father to her children."

Penelope is startled by his statement, "Truly?"

"Truly." Colin confirmed. His face then brightened when Marina walked over, a smile upon her face.

"Penelope!" Marina smiled seeing her cousin. She took her hands, squeezing them in greeting, "It is really good to see you. You look well. How are you?"

"I am well." Penelope replied, a false smile on her face. It fell when Colin asked Marina to the floor and she nodded

Penelope looked at the two dancing. Friends didn't dance like that. They don't gaze into each other's eyes like that. He certainly does not look at her like that.

She was going to stop Whistledown, but seeing that made her itch to put pen to parchment again.

Translation - Love makes life’s sweetest pleasures and worst misfortunes.

[bookishofalder]

Rainy Days

Spencer x Reader

Request: @starwithoutdarkness - Hey! I heard you were looking for requests! Maybe Spencer Reid x reader fake dating fluff? Combined with Request: @paulaern  - Hello!  What about Spencer Reid x reader when they realizes they love each other? Like reader makes something for Spencer and he thinks like "I can't deny anymore, I'm completely and hopeless in love with her" or something like that  (G!neutral if you want)

A/N: Thank you so much for sending in requests! Hope this makes you smile!

Warnings: Swearing, moderate BAU violence, creepy men, fluffiest fluff, intense headache description. Set randomly post prison Reid but Hotch is still there because he should have been! WC-2,488

Spencer was staring at the geo-profile he had been working on all day, very glad to be inside. The weather in Seattle had stayed consistently rainy for the two days the BAU team had been in town assisting in catching a killer, who had been committing serial robberies/murders with no apparent rhyme or reason. And while Spencer didn’t mind the rain, he did mind loud, busy cities. Combined, they usually led to a headache that would take a day or two to recover.

The door to the conference room he was working alone in burst open and slammed shut so suddenly he nearly jumped out of his skin, turning to see-

You.

Spencer hated it when you appeared without warning, catching him entirely off guard and presenting the risk that you would notice the visible effort it took for him to compose himself around you.

While he’d noticed how beautiful and hilarious and empathetic you were the moment you joined the team, he’d fallen in love with you when you had your first case with them. Spencer had begun to ramble about the specifics of casinos, and how ‘beating the house’ was nearly impossible, when the rest of the team had tuned out. A temporary member, Agent Seaver, had sneered ‘I’m sorry I asked.” Effectively shutting him up. But then you had turned in your seat next to him and, after shooting Seaver a look had asked him to continue. And though he didn’t have that much more to say, and it wasn’t all that interesting, you listened to every single word and thanked him.

It had been years since that had happened, your friendship had blossomed into best friends, something Spencer cherished immensely. This was partly why he shoved his feelings down. The relationship did not need to change for Spencer to remain happy; as long as he got to spend time with you at work, or watch movies and make tent forts in his living room. And visit his mom (who adored you and always gave you book recommendations that you would be sure to read the moment you could), or go to comic conventions and museums...yes, as long as he could always do those things with you, he was happy.

No need to risk changing a perfect thing.

Now though, you were shutting the door and giving him your most panicked look, wide-eyed, with your hair damp from the rain you no doubt had run through to get inside, accounting for your breathlessness. If it weren’t for the worry that had sprung up inside of him upon seeing your expression, he would have fixated on how beautiful you looked at that moment.

“Spencer, you’re my boyfriend.” You whisper yelled at him, quickly stepping closer and setting your bag down on the conference table.

“Wha-“ He began, but you cut him off frantically.

“I’ll explain-just, oh fuck-“

Spencer stood frozen to the spot as the door reopened and one of the senior detectives sauntered in, a friendly smile somewhat overshadowed by the almost predatorial glint in his eyes. You awkwardly stepped closer to Spencer, raising a hand in hello.

“Agent (Y/L/N), great to see you’re back, I was hoping to catch you before the end of the day!” He said merrily, placing two hands on the back of the nearest chair. Something about the way his hands gripped the chair made Spencer feel...on edge.

You gave the fakest little giggle Spencer had ever heard from you, “Oh, nice to see you too Detective! Just had to catch up with Agent Reid here...”

When his eyes moved from you to assess Spencer briefly, he felt a protective force rear up, instincts entirely at alert. Without hesitating, he casually draped an arm over your shoulder, brushing some hair back as he did, and replied, “And you promised we could get some coffee from the Starbucks down the road, hon.”

He enjoyed the way your cheeks flushed and noticed the pulse in your neck pick up. You glanced up at him, trying to look coy but he knew you too well and could see you were partly surprised, and also trying not to laugh.

“Um, of course, I nearly forgot, babe, let’s go in about 5-unless, did you need something specific, Detective?” She broke off to glance back at the now scowling man, who gave an annoyed jerk of his head before stomping back out of the room.

Once the door banged closed behind him, you let out the biggest sigh of relief, raising a hand to your face in dismay.

Spencer hadn’t removed his arm yet, “I’m assuming I just helped you avoid being asked out, but why-?”

“Uhg, Spencer, I’ve already turned him down TWICE since we’ve arrived! He’s literally the kind of dude who doesn’t take no for an answer unless another man has some fucking misogynistic claim over the woman!” You exclaimed, before moving to stand right in front of Spencer and lean just your head to his chest, staring down at the floor, “I hate everything.”

Spencer laughed, patting your back softly, but internally making note that he wouldn’t be letting you go anywhere alone for the rest of this case-that detective gave him the creeps. And while you were beyond capable of protecting yourself, he just knew he wouldn’t be able to focus on anything if he thought you could be hurt.

“Well, just so we’re clear I would never want to be called ‘babe’ in a relationship.” He joked and the desired effect was his immediate reward when you lifted your head and giggled-your genuine, beautiful little giggle-and then grinned.

“Spencer, you called me ‘hon’ like we were 70.”

Spencer considered a moment, “We could be, you’ll be Gladys and I’ll be-“

“Winston!” You supplied eagerly, and he frowned at you, trying not to laugh.

“Winston?”

“It’s really very dignified, the kind of name where people call you ‘sir’.” You replied cheekily, and while Spencer grinned, a part of him felt a swoop of pleasure when your lips formed the word ‘sir’.

He decided very quickly that he liked the idea of you calling him that. And then, just as swiftly dismissed that train of thought and chastised himself.

As you both stood together and laughed, the door swung open and Hotch and the team followed him in, all in various stages of the results of exposure to the rain, looking equally grim. Spencer and you abruptly stopped when you saw their expressions and launched back into work mode seamlessly.

———

Two days later, the team was closing in on the unsub and everyone was on high alert. Taking the profile and applying it to the geo-profile he had been working on, Spencer had narrowed down this grubby old apartment that sat above a nightclub as the most likely spot the unsub was staying at. Of course, they were arriving at night which meant the club was busy and loud, people lined up out the doors waiting for their chance to enter, pay too much for a drink and grind their bodies against strangers.

Spencer’s headache from the unforgiving rain was thrumming now with the music that seemed entirely unencumbered by the walls of the stairwell, the team slowly climbing. It was bad enough that his eyes narrowed somewhat, but he didn’t lose focus.

You were behind him, watching his six as Hotch and Morgan approached the door ahead and prepared to breach. Spencer slipped a hand behind his back and, on cue, you’re pinky wrapped with his. A brief promise to each other, ‘I’ve got you.’.

They had anticipated violence and heavy arms, so when their announcement was met with silence and the door was kicked open, the tactical response was to secure positions and carefully proceed. Agents and SWAT members lined the building and were, at that moment, securing the club below to ensure the unsub couldn’t flee into a room full of potential hostages.

Spencer and you were the third pair to enter, quickly moving ahead of the others to secure more rooms, eyes peeled for movement. The floor was covered in litter and random spots of dirt and dried substances. It smelled like body odour and axe body spray-which immediately went to Spencer’s headache and caused it to throb in protest.

“Freeze!”

You had shouted right as Spencer noticed the movement from a back room down the hall, as the unsub leaned out and, not abiding by the command, opened fire. Spencer grabbed you and swung you both behind the wall of the kitchen, out of the line of fire while he shouted the unsubs location.

You recovered quickly, dropping to the ground and leaning out to return fire as Hotch and Morgan ran across to the living room to join the battle. It only took a few moments after that before Morgan managed to get a shot to the suspect's shoulder and he fell with a cry of anguish.

You popped up from the ground, watching as Prentiss and Rossi moved forward to secure the man, and barked into your radio for medics to come in.

Spencer, meanwhile, was reeling. When the shots in the room had all joined together in a cacophony, sound and noise piercing his skull, it had converted to pain and panic in his skull, overwhelming him. He had used his own body to shield yours when he pulled you with him into the wall, and the caution he took with you meant he hadn’t caught himself carefully enough, his head bouncing lightly off of the stone wall.

Which, on a normal day would have simply been annoying. But today, with a headache so severe he was beginning to get spots in his vision, it was detrimental. The scene was secure, so he allowed his eyes to shut, a meagre reprieve but at least it was something, at least he didn’t have to see the beams from the flashlights or the pulsing of the neon signs outside of the windows...

“Winston, take my hand.” Your voice was so, so soft. Spencer let his mouth open slightly, a small rush of air all he managed, trying to say ‘I can’t-it hurts, make it stop’ but you grasped his hand tightly and pulled and he followed, his other hand reaching and grabbing that back of your vest, he let you lead him.

He knew from the reduced foot traffic of agents and crime scene workers that you were taking the rear exit, a stairwell that was narrower than the main. He peeked through his lashes to take the stairs, and then suddenly, the cool night air hit him and the door was closing behind you both.

You kept walking with purpose, leading Spencer further away from the loud building. The rain spattered his face but with each step the noise reduced and after a short walk it became relatively quiet.

“Sit.” You murmured, halting. Spencer opened his eyes and saw that you had led him to the farthest spot in the parking lot from the building, where trees lined the lot along a community park that was probably utilized by vagrants and drug dealers more than families. But there was a bench, and you were waiting for him to take a seat. You had pulled out a compact, expandable emergency rain shield from one of the pockets on your FBI utility belt and tossed it on the bench, protecting you both from soaking your underwear.

Spencer sat, setting his elbows on his legs and leaning forward with his hands pressed to his face. He took deep, steadying breaths as you joined him, your hand on the back of his neck. At first, he thought you were just resting it there because his FBI vest would have prevented him from feeling your hand on his back, however, a moment later it was joined by your other hand and a very cold object.

Resisting the urge to pull away, he gasped at the contact, “What-?”

“On-the-go cold compress, Doctor.” You explained, leaving it in place and then rummaging again. Spencer wanted to look but the compress, combined with the quiet, was already doing wonders. He continued to take deep breaths.

“When you’re ready, try this.” You said softly, pressing something to his hand. Opening his eyes, he saw a mini flask that had his name written on the side.

He turned his head slowly so as not to move the compress and met your eyes, which were assessing him with concern. “(Y/N), when did we start drinking on the job?”

You giggled quietly, “It’s just water mixed with this like, vitamin powder that’s supposed to be good for rehydrating you quickly. I did some research on how to help headaches like yours on the go, just in case, and I made this ‘Spencer’ care bag.” You rambled a little when he didn’t reply.

Spencer looked back at the flask and opened it, quickly downing the contents. It tasted pretty fruity and he realized he was thirsty, this taking the edge off.

“Is it okay?” You asked. Spencer raised his head and met your eyes, searching them.

He was overwhelmed, the headache already fading, in its place an intensely warm feeling building inside of him as he considered the time and effort you had taken to care for him. He hadn’t asked you, or hinted, you had just taken it on to find a way to help him and you were right there when he needed you the most.

You had always been there when he needed you. When he had been shot protecting Blake, when he struggled to care for his mother, when he had gone to prison, when he was freed, you were there.

The words tumbled out, unable to be contained a second longer.

“I am hopelessly in love with you.”

Your mouth opened and closed in surprise, taken entirely off guard. Though he worried what you would say, he couldn’t deny the relief he felt having finally said it out loud. He watched patiently as your mind processed his confession, holding his breath.

“I-Spencer,” And then suddenly your lips were pressing into his and the pain from his headache ceased entirely. Spencer was consumed by the feel of you against him, of your hands holding his face and the hum of content you gave when he returned your passion, dropping his flask and sliding his hands up your neck, gripping tenderly.

After what could have been hours, weeks, or years, you both broke apart, pulling back just enough to make eye contact without your eyes crossing. Neither of you let go, your breath puffing out in wisps in the cold night air.

“I love you too,” You breathed, “I could grow old with you, Winston.”

Spencer laughed, relief and happiness swooping through him at your words, “Gladys, I couldn’t imagine anything more perfect.”

Did you enjoy this story? Please consider reblogging or commenting to ease my inner turmoil as a writer. Likes are basically just a bookmark!

You grinned back at Spencer, and then he kissed you again.

[loverofthewindgod]

🥞Brunch Bunch 🥞

There are so many ways one can enjoy a lovely Sunday afternoon. Strolling through the park, going to the mall, having a family cookout, sleeping in the whole day, you name it. For these 5 ladies, it's quality sister time that they rarely get to have, and what better way to enjoy that than having brunch at the greatest Café in existence!

'Scuse me, Imma just insert this wholesome imagery of the sisters vibin while makin their way downtown ^_^

Sienna: "When I say 'sister', y'all say 'time'! "Sister!"

Avani, Safara, Xuna: "Time!"

Sienna: "Sister!"

Avani, Safara, Xuna: "Time!"

Xuna: "When I say 'yummy', y'all say 'food'! "Yummy!"

Sienna, Safara, Avani: "Food!"

Xuna: "Yummy!"

Sienna, Safara, Avani: "Food!"

Tootega: "When I say 'shut', please shut up."

The Squad: 😗😗😗😗......

Avani: "Shut!"

Sienna, Xuna, Safara: "Up!"

Avani: "Shut!"

Sienna, Xuna, Safara: "Up!"

Tootega: "I'm surrounded by idiots." 😑😑😑

"Alrighty now, who's ready to have their mind and taste buds blown away?" Sienna asked, playfully walking backwards.

"Pshhhh, as an expert foodie I'll be glad to test that statement." Avani proudly shot back.

"Yea, Gordon Ramsay has NOTHING on you sis." Tootega rolled her eyes at her sister's bravado.

"I'm so happy that we get to spend time together and it's not for training or at some boring meeting!" Safara exclaimed, happily raising her hands to the sky.

"Fujin mentioned his visits to your family business and sounds like he enjoyed himself. Is it true that's where you first learned the art of cooking?" Xuna asked.

"True it be, Madam Sunshine!" Sienna finger gunned, earning a giggle from Xuna.

"Amazing! I can't wait until we arrive!"

"Well wait no longer, coz we've arrived! Ladies and Queens, it is with great honor that I welcome you to my family's pride and joy, ba da da daaaa! The Serene Garden!"

~insert Sienna doing the Will Smith Oscar pose~

Upon entering the establishment, Xuna, Avani, and Safara dropped their jaws in awe as they glanced around, even Tootega gave an impressed nod. The Café had such a warm, inviting rustic ambiance to it. The aroma of freshly made coffee and pastries filled the room, there was lively chatter among the patrons in the dining area, the bar, even the kitchen staff sounded merry. Not to mention there's a secluded library section for book lovers. You know where Tootega's gonna venture off to, heh.

Some of the patrons stopped what they were doing and noticed the ladies walking around, understandably taken aback by height differences and beautiful appearances. If they weren't 5 powerful Goddesses, one would've thought they were simply a group of insanely hot supermodels going out to eat.

As Sienna continued showing the gals around, she noticed her pawpaw Kojoe at a table serving some coffee with a side of smiles.

"Cuckoo Koko!" Almost dropping the kettle after hearing the very familiar voice, Kojoe took a deep breath, politely excused himself from the table, and just dashed his way on over to his daughter.

"MAHH BEBEH GORLLL!!!!" YOU CAME BAAAAAACK!!" What better way to welcome your child back than to hug em tight and spin them around like a mad man while speaking an entirely different language in front of your customers hahaha.

"Oh gods, more weird people." Tootega winced at the unusual, yet wholesome family encounter.

"Lemme tell you sumthin, buttercup. The second I heard Cuckoo, that's when I thought, 'hmm only one gal knows how cuckoo koko be, and that when I knew it was my little rose bud." Kojoe whimsically booped his daughter on the nose, as if he forgot or just refused to believe that his girl is all grown up. Sienna then took the time to introduce the Goddesses to her father.

"Girls, I want you to meet my father, Kojoe. Paw paw, these lovely ladies are Fujin's sisters: This is Avani, Tootega, Safara, and Xuna."

"Well I'll be cornfunded! Y'all are related to Fujin Apple?"

"Woah woah...related to who did what now?" Tootega was straight up dumbfounded by the nickname, while Xuna, Safara and Avani were trying so hard not to laugh.

"Oh, Fujin Apple is his nickname the family gave him. It's a long story." Sienna giggled.

"Ooohhh you don't know what you've done, I'm gonna have a blast with this." Avani maliciously rubbed her hands together, plotting future embarrassment for her younger brother.

"So anyway paw paw, today is a very special day I get to spend with these very special ladies. Think you can help me out with something very special?" Sienna asked.

"Sure thing baby girl. Whatchu need?"

"We need to initiate Operation Brunch Bunch"

Right on cue, the staff stopped in the middle of their duties, looking like a bunch of deer in headlights. It's not very often they get an order like this, and they were pretty excited! Knowing that the order came from Sienna meant that it had to be more wonderful than usual.

"Ohh yea we gotchu, we gotchu wildflower! You and your sisters sit back and we'll handle everything for y'all!" Kojoe kissed his daughter on the forehead before he superman'ed himself through the kitchen window alongside his head chef hubby and the rest of the crew, getting right to work.

In the meantime, the Goddesses got cozy at the outdoor patio and served Raspberry Mimosas, enjoying the peaceful, scenic view of the large fields and mountains.

"I know I have my own temple and land, but man oh man! This is the life!" Avani raised her glass, feeling on top of the world.

"Sienna, this place is absolutely beautiful! I'll have to bring Raiden here sometime, even if i have to drag him from his chambers."

"I can guarantee you he won't be mad for long once you do. Sienna suggested.

Safara happily spun around dreaming as if she was back at Strawberry Fields."I'm certain Grey would love this outdoor space, almost as much as Kiva and Hana would."

~cuts to scene of Tootega sipping her beverage in the library, reading~

"Oh look! The food's ready!" Sienna gestured over to the group of servers emerging from indoors with trays of food.

Pancakes, chicken and waffles, a french toast bake, a garden frittata, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, roasted potatoes, danish cream puff pastries, croissants, muffins, biscuits with butter, honey & homeade jams, and a fresh fruit platter. The spread layed out across the table looked like a grand buffet, truly a sight to behold.

"Bon Appétit, Mademoiselles." The servers bowed before returning inside, ending with Kojoe and Sienna exchanging two thumbs up.

The ladies gathered together at the table, taken back by the tasty offerings brought before them. After a short and sweet prayer, it was time to chow down!

"Where to start, where to start..." Avani, now in expert foodie mode, contemplated from the vast amount of food to choose from. She went for the French toast, took her first bite and she went silent, shutting her eyes.

"Soooo...what's the verdict?" Sienna teased.

"Shhhhh...I can't even look at you right now." Avani waved her fork around like she's in a dreamy haze. She was on cloud nine, a delicious fluffy toast cloud in French heaven.

"I think I'll be coming back for the chicken and waffles here."

"Oooh, the cream danishes are soooo tasty!!"

"Don't sleep on biscuits with honey, it's insane."

"Hmm, the frittata tastes pretty good."

A delectable feast such as this fit for royalty, let alone 5 Goddesses, the verdict was unanimous. Overall score gets 10 thumbs up. A Flawless (and delicious) victory!

Buuuut....it doesn't end there. Even after demolishing all that food, there was still plenty of room for early dessert! To the bakery!

"So we get our own box of whatever pastries we desire?" Xuna asked, admiring the many selections. Donuts, cupcakes, tarts, you name it. Tootega was busy keeping Avani and Safara from drooling all over the display glass.

"You sure can! Go on and help yourselves!" Sienna gave them the green light to satisfy their sweet tooths. Avani and Safara ended up getting 4 boxes each. One for the way back, one for their students, and two for a midnight snack. Safara just had to get more of those danishes that stole her heart. Tootega, Sienna and Xuna just settled for 2 boxes each. Business was real good for the bakery that day.

Now cut to the scene where the gals are heading home, sampling a few treats while just reflecting on the wonderous day they had.

"Three cheers for Sienna, who graced us with this wonderful get-together!"

"Hip hip hoorah!" Safara and Avani cheered with their mouths full.

"Today was nice." Tootega shrugged, acting like she didn't enjoy herself. She ain't foolin anybody.

"Aww, I'm touched. But I think we all deserve a cheer. Strong, beautiful, amazing, intelligent Queens who get to call each other sisters. To sisterhood!"

"To Sisterhood!!"

"Yea, I guess. Just no more sing-."

🎶Makin our way downtown, with some treats, havin fun with my sisters🎶

"Why? Why me?..." Tootega pleaded to the heavens.

Today has been nothing short of phenomenal. Each and every second was cherished. Filled with amazing food, laughter, (except Tootega lmao) and just pure vibes. Operation Brunch Bunch was a success.

Lady Xuna - @bisexualjohnnycage

The God Sisters - @ninibear3000

[satorugojooo]

Working together with genshin impact characters would include:

Characters included: Albedo, Xiao, Diluc

-Albedo-

Working with Albedo was truly a dream, he was soo talented in everything he did

He was the chief of the alchemy team from the knights and you were some how a right hand of Jean.

You two spend lot of time together expecially when Sucrose didn't need extra alchemy lessons.

"Oh hello darling!" he greeted you as you made your way trough the door of his lab.

"Hello Albedo how are you?" you asked with a sweet smile as he smiled.

"Just doing some research about the traveler, can you believe that they have elemental power but actually its working without a vision." he said fascinated.

"Oh well they earned the Anemo power when they touched the statue of the seven." you said and he looked at you.

"Hmm but why it happened? They are not the first ones that touched a statue." he said more to himself.

"Maybe it was an elemental reaction? I mean there might be a connection between their power of purifying poisoned things and the elemental power? Maybe some reaction happened exactly like when, they purified that tear from Dvalin." you said and he looked at you.

"Why of course... And I think I know now how to find that out Y/N your a genius!" he said and lift you in the air spinning you while he hugged you.

"I'm just trying to help." you said with a giggle burying your head in his chest.

"And you always do." he said touching his forehead to yours. You stared in his teal eyes and felt like you will get lost in them.

"I love you Albedo..." you said and he chuckled.

"I love you too my dear." he spoke and when you both wanted to share a kiss someone opened the door.

"YIKES YOU TWO ARE DISGUSTING AGAIN!" the little red girl said and you both got back to your places embarrassed.

"Oh Klee I didn't expected you here..." Albedo said and Klee looked at you both.

"Why of coulse you didn't but I did expect to find you two cuddling hele like 2 love bilds." she said and you buried you face in your palms as you felt your cheeks heat too much.

"Klee I heard the traveler wanted to know how you make your bombs wouldn't you want to show them?" Albedo said and Klee gasped.

"Oh gosh this is my time to shine I'll talk to you latel see u!" she said and left quickly.

"Done now you don't have to hide anymore my love." Albedo said and grabbed your hands so you won't hide anymore.

"Come here." he said and gave you a kiss but you ended up blushing even more.

-Xiao-

Working with Xiao was a little tricky. I mean just look at him he is always silent and sometimes difficult too.

He was an adepti while you were one of the four winds from Mondstadt, it wasn't easy for both of you since responsibilities are responsibilities.

Today though you both had the same job to do, and that was to fight the huge Vortex monster that wanted to destroy Liyue.

You were in a visit to Liyue when you saw the huge monster rise, so you went to the Jade chamber as quickly as possible.

"Y/N??" Xiao said as he looked at you.

"Xiao! Tell me there is a way to fight this thing!" you said and he looked at you.

"I fear we can't do much, but we will try." he said. As the other adepti started attacking the monster with the Balista you gave your blessing to the traveler.

"Use my wind to make tornadoes that defeated the dragon Durin once..." you said and Xiao gave his speed to the traveler. After the monster destroyed the balista Xiao quickly saved the traveler.

"What will we do now?" paimon said panicked.

"I'll sacrifice the jade chamber..." Ningguang said and you all left the chamber.

When you finally got safely to Liyue Xiao came to you.

"Are you alright?" he asked.

"Yes, what about you?"

"I am too, thanks God that your fine, what you were doing here anyways?" he said as you hugged him.

"I was in a short visit when I saw that monster... I couldn't stay and do nothing..." you said and he nodded.

"It's alright, I'm just glad your okay." he said and you smiled hugging him even more.

-Diluc-

Your work was usually quite easy. You helped him sometimes at the tavern, but most of the time while he was gone to the tavern you were at the Dawn Winery helping the staff and of course protecting it from any danger.

Diluc was grateful to have you next to him and he was even more glad to live with you. He proposed you to move to him a couple of weeks ago when you almost got attacked by some abyss mages while leaving the Winery.

His pint was that as lovers it's not an unusual thing plus he would feel better knowing that your under his protection, so who were you to say no?

"Diluc I think someone is at the door." you said.

"Can you see who it is while I make these raports dear?" he said and you nodded.

As you opened the door it was Kaeya.

"Well well well if this isn't my sister in law-" he said but you already closed the door in his face.

"If you don't stop I won't let you in." you said.

"Fine fine sis I'm don- OUCH!" he said as you stepped on his feet.

"Warned you," you said.

"Yeah yeah never mind where is my charming brother?" he said.

"In his study but- HEY!" you said as he walked past you to diluc.

"Kaeya what the heck your doing here?" Diluc said.

"Oh being uncivil again I see, well such a shame because I just came with these from Jean, she said you needed them." he said and handed some papers to diluc.

"Okay thank you now bye." Diluc said and got out Kaeya.

"Good riddance." you said with a chuckle.

"Why of course." he said and wrapped his hands around your waist.

"I don't need him expecially now that I have you here." he said and buried his head in your shoulder.

"Aww I'm touched." you said and giggled.

"You should be." he said with a smile.

[feralandmoonstruck]

Falling In Love Will Kill You Pt.7

WC: 1784

Taglist: @adie-dee @pheita @kainablue @jezifster @aschlindartroom

After she checked out of the hotel, she wandered aimlessly around town. She bussed where she could in order to visit some of her favorite stores where she purchased clothes she had always wanted but could never afford without dipping into her savings. If I’m dying tonight I might as well make the most of it. Go big or go home, or, well, in my case it’s go big and die.

After shopping she decided to swing by her apartment. The caution tape had been removed and her door had been replaced with a sheet of plywood. Well fuck. Guess that's not an option anymore. She sighed and asked the driver to drop her off at one of the tourist attractions at the edge of town.

"You planning to hike with all those bags?"

She rolled her eyes, glad that he couldn't see her. "Gonna change in the gift shop."

"Alright, whatever you say."

"Thanks for the lift. Have a good one."

"Yeah, you too. Have fun!"

She didn't answer him as she stepped out of the car and back into the sun.

"Hey there," she said to the cashier of the gift shop, "is it cool if I change in the bathroom? I know it's super weird to ask, but I didn't have anywhere else to change and forgot about just wearing the stuff out of the store. If you want, you can even follow me back there."

"Yeah, that's fine."

"Thanks sis," she grinned.

The bathroom wasn't much cleaner than one at a gas station, but she changed there anyway. A new dress, sturdy knee high boots, and a leather jacket left her grinning at herself in the bathroom mirror. To complete her new look she added plum lipstick and thick black eyeliner. She shoved her old clothes into a trash can.

"Thanks girl," she called to the cashier as she headed for the door.

"Have a great day!"

Mara waved and left the shop. Her jacket was regrettably too hot to wear so she carried it as she began the long climb up the stairs that led to the top of the cliffs.

By the end of the hike her calves were burning and she was gasping for air. It felt good. She took a seat on the edge of one bench to catch her breath. The sun beat down on her and for a moment she regretted her boots, but it subsided when she looked at them and her heart filled with excitement. I might only have them for a few more hours, but I'm making the most of them.

When she’d caught her breath, she started the shorter hike up to the top of the falls. It wasn’t hard to avoid and ignore the families coming up to stare in awe at the waterfall and the expansive view below them. She stayed back near the treeline. Most people were too busy to even notice her. She settled against the base of one of the trees, facing away from the cliffs and towards the forest. Slowly, the groups of people became more and more infrequent, slowing to a trickle as the sun began its descent in the sky.

Dusk began to fall and Mara pulled her jacket on before slipping deeper into the trees. The park would be closing soon and she didn’t want to be found. It would have been unfair for whichever employee found her body, but she hoped that Cal had the strength to yeet her as far from people as possible.

Caldizaar was suddenly in front of her. She stumbled back with a shout. Her heart immediately kicked up in her chest. Her breath was fast and shallow.

“Are you ready, Tamara?”

She shook her head and wrapped her arms around herself. “No, I’m not ready Cal, I’m just not.”

“You do not seem comfy. I thought we were meeting at your comfy place?”

“It’s- It’s over there,” she pointed behind her to where the falls lay.

“We should go there then. Then you can be comfy and I can Claim you.”

Hot tears burned her eyes as they began to fall. She hadn’t expected to fall apart so quickly, but every step shook as she led them back through the trees. She stopped when they could see out over the cliffs. Caldizaar drew up beside her.

“This is your comfy place?”

Mara’s breath hitch into a sob, “It is. I feel- I feel like I’m un-untouch-able.” She sank to her knees, entirely heedless of the way her dress got pressed into the dirt. She tried to wipe away her tears, but that only made them fall harder.

“You’re beginning to sound like the others.”

“No shit!” she screamed through the tears. Her voice came out thick and raw.

“Stand up,” he said, “We can hug and then you will not remember anything after.”

“No,” she sobbed, “I won’t. I ca, I can’t.”

“Mara, stand up,” Caldizaar repeated. He leaned down and took her arms and began to pick her up. She fought against him, struggling to get away. “You cannot overpower me, Tamara. You can either go in a way that makes you comfy, or you can go here in the dirt. You can choose.”

Mara let herself be lifted until she was standing. She wiped her tears away with a hollow laugh. “You should at least get a chance to see what’s so great about this place.” She gulped down deep breaths of air. “Here, look.” She approached the edge of the cliff and gestured to it. Caldizaar looked down at the trees stretching out into a green blanket beneath them. Mara stepped back just enough to throw her weight in as she pushed him off the ledge.

A moment later he reappeared next to her, his skin flaming once again. “That was fucked up, Tamara,” he growled.

“This whole thing is fucked up! It’s been fucked the entire time!” She threw her arms up, “I don’t even know why you’re killing me! Out of everybody, why was I picked?”

The flames surrounding Caldizaar faded until he looked like his normal, charred self. “You’ll die no matter what.”

“You mean when I’m eighty-something? Or am I sick?”

Caldizaar ran a hand over his face and looked away. “You have no idea how much trouble I’d be in if I told you.”

“You know? You’ve known this whole time and you lied??”

“I did not. I had no idea until today.”

“Are you going to tell me? I’m dying either way, right? I should at least know before you tear out my soul.”

“Mara, I can’t. It is not my place to share that kind of knowledge.”

“It shouldn’t matter then! Nothing you say should matter.”

“I will not tell you, Mara. Stop asking.”

She sucked her teeth, “Tell me or I’m going to jump off this cliff.”

“That is not how you wanted to die. You said you wanted to be comfy.”

“Yeah, well you’re pissing me off. So whatever, right? Doesn’t matter either way.” She stepped towards the edge of the cliff, but Caldizaar grabbed her wrist.

He yanked her away from the edge and wrapped his arms around her. “You die, Mara. You die in six months. A car hits you while you are on your way to work and you do not survive it.” She gave a little gasp, her tears welling up anew. “This is why we do not tell mortals. We take them quickly before their deaths can creep up on them.”

“I don’t want this,” she whispered.

“I cannot explain how many rules I have broken for you. I did not want this either.”

“I guess that means it’s time for me to die then. No use in you getting into more trouble because of me.”

He let her go abruptly and backed away, “That’s- that's. No. I'm not ready for you to die. You can have another day."

"Another day, really? All this shit and you're going to give me another day? Cal, just fuckin kill me. Kill me or don't, but 'one more day' is already becoming hell. I can't see anyone, I can't talk to anyone, I can barely travel, and I'm running out of money fast since I thought I was dying and decided to splurge on a new outfit and can't really go back to work yet." She bumped her fist against her forehead. "Just kill me, Cal. It'll be easier for both of us."

"Fine," he sighed, "I'm not killing you."

"You'll probably get in trouble for that."

"I'm already in trouble," he snapped.

Mara's anger boiled down to a simmer, "So what does that mean for you?"

"I don't know. I don’t think this has ever happened before. Demons do not often break rules. And none as bad as this."

"Huh. I assumed you guys would break rules all the time."

He hissed at her and took another step away. "Those are lies you have heard. We do our jobs, and we do them well."

"And yet here we are."

“Here we are.”

“So now what,” Mara sighed.

“We could see if your home is open yet. You seem to be comfy there as well.”

“Cal, I already told you that you can’t follow me like that.”

“I will simply return to you when you are there.”

“It’s too late to try to go home tonight. Office is closed, so even if they replaced the door I couldn't get in."

"What will you do then?"

She shrugged, "Get another hotel I guess."

"I do not wish to be in the void any longer than I have to."

"We can walk down together. It will probably take me a while to find a hotel, get to it, and get checked in."

Cal looked uncomfortable. "I will wait."

"Here, let's do this. I'll look for a hotel now and get a ride on its way here. They shouldn’t take too much longer for them to get here after we've reached the bottom of the mountain. I'll even find a hotel before we go down. It'll keep you from having to stay in the void any longer than it takes me to get to the hotel and get checked in."

Caldizaar nodded. "That is nice of you."

"Letting me live was pretty nice of you, too." She pulled out her phone and began searching for hotels. There was one nearby that didn't look terrible. From there she opened her ride app and punched in her destination. "Alright Cal, let's head down now. Said the ride is fifteen to twenty minutes away so they should be here not long after we get to the bottom."

[nightshadeshadow123]

Jealousy: Part 2(A.M-R)-(C.G)

You lazily trailed your fingers up and down Ally's bare back as she laid against your side, still recovering from her previous orgasms and the way you've dominated her when she tried and failed to when you reminded her who's in charge.

"Do we really have to go to the academy?" Ally asked, moving her head to prop up on top of your breast, her brown eyes connecting with yours, her arm lazily wrapped around your stomach and her bare legs interwined with yours.

You smiled at her warmly, tugging a strand of her hair behind her ear before cradling her warm cheeck, admiring her beauty as her eyes flutter close for a moment before snapping them open to look at you again.

"Yes, I really miss the academy and the others. That place was my safe place before I came here and met you. And it would be good to see the others again. It's been so long." You said, a look of nostalgic crossing your face that have Ally's heart tug.

"Okay love. I just don't..." Ally frowned.

You continued rubbing her smooth back again and shot her a confused look.

"You just don't what my lover?" You questioned as you trailed your thumb softly over her cheekbone, forcing her to keep eye contact with you.

Ally smiled before nuzzling your palm, kissing your wrist affectionately.

"I just don't like the way that woman looks at you and touch you." She finally admitted, her arm tightening around you.

You blinked confusedly for a moment before chuckling. "You mean Cordelia?"

"Yes."

"How does she look at me?" You asked, half unsure if you should actually ask that and what she would say.

Ally rolled her eyes and let out a huff before looking up at you again.

"Like you hung the moon and all the stars in the sky just for her." A hint of jealous clear in her tone.

You laid still, for a moment unsure and confused at what the older woman said.

"I'm sure you are just looking too much into this Ally. She's just being her usual self like she was with me in the Academy. And besides she knows I have you. I'm sure she won't try anything even if that's true." You assured after awhile, kissing her cheeck.

Ally smiled at the affectionate gesture before turning serious again. "I don't think I'm reading into it too much, I know how someone looks at the somebody their in love with. But if that's the case she better know that you are mine and she can't have you." She said lowly, lowering her head to your neck and began to suck at the soft skin there, making sure to leave marks there.

You let out a moan before chuckling at the older woman, digging your nails into her back with the hand on her back while digging your other hands fingers into her hair, pressing her into your neck more.

"I like it when you get all jealous." You said.

"I'm not jealous, I'm simply protective of what's mine." Ally mumbled against your neck, sucking one last hickey into your flesh before pulling away to admire her claim on you.

You let out a laugh before pushing her head downwards and crashing her lips onto yours in a bruising kiss, electing a yelp from her but she returned the kiss eagerly.

After a few minutes you break away from the kiss much to Ally's dismay and pecked her just below the ear and squeezing her as with both hands that have her jolting in surprise but before she could kiss you again you've already rolled away and have gotten up from the messy bed, smirking cheekily at the older woman as she glared at you.

"You damned tease." She mumbled and watched adoringly as you get dressed while leaning on her propped up palm.

She stuck the tip of your tongue out at her while pulling on your jeans.

"Well we should be getting packed." You said after awhile, walking over to your wardrobe.

"Now? But I thought we were going to wait before going to the academy." Ally sat up, pushing away the wine red satin bedsheets.

"Yes now. And I pretty much am excited for this trip. To see the others and also to hear out what Delia and Myrtle have to say." You pulled out some older academy robes you used to wear and some more modern clothes too, neatly putting them down on the bed next to Ally.

Ally only grumbles before getting up too, lazily walking over to a dresser to pull out two Suitcases. "Okay, if to you say so."

You took the two suitcases from her and set them on the bed, immediately starting to pack your stuff in while Ally got hers ready.

"I think you'll really love the academy. But just a early warning, try and don't take too much offence to Madison. She can be a bit bitchy, but she's my bitch sis." You said, looking at Ally for a moment before packing in your earphones and phone charger.

"Wait, you have a sister?" Ally asked and stopped packing to look at you, a confused look.

You kept your eyes focused on packing, not looking up at the older woman.

"Uh, had." You cleared your throat to distract her from that one. "But Madison isn't my real sister." You spoke quickly before walking over to the bathroom to get toothbrushes, toothpaste and body wash and other necessities.

Ally shot you another confused look as you walked away when notching your behaviour but chose to ignore it for the time being.

-Time skip-

You looked to the familiar acadmey in front of you before giving Ally a smile and squeezing her soft hand in yours softly as she looked up at the academy in awe and wonder.

"It's...It's so-." Ally tried to get more out but she was too in awe to finish that sentence, brown eyes focused on the white towering building in front of you and her.

"It's so what? Beautiful? Magnificent?" You heard a familiar warm voice question from the your side, pride in her voice.

You and Ally both whipped to the side to at the familiar voice, a smile on your face as you faced your Supreme while Ally gripped your hand tighter at being startled.

"Delia." You greeted her warmly, heart fluttering for a moment at her beaming smile, the sun's rays shining on her hair making it appear golden, you are certain people will mistake her for an angel instead of a witch, hell you did when you met for the first time when she found you all those years ago.

"(Y/N), I'm glad you decided to visit so fast. The others will be so glad to see you." The blonde stopped near you and pulled you into a tight hug, one that you eagerly returned with the arm that isn't holding onto Ally's.

Ally narrowed her eyes, the hug happening to long for her comfort and she squeezed your hand before tugging your arm slightly until you break away from the hug and stood straight next to her.

"I hope you don't mind that I've brought Ally with me." You looked to your girlfriend, giving her a warm smile before looking at Cordelia again.

Cordelia forced a smile, her eyes briefly flicking to Ally before looking back at you with a certain warmth in her eyes, taking in every detail in of you that is absolutely perfection in her eyes. How she just wanted to treasure you forever.

"Oh, no I don't mind at all." Cordelia lied, a bit upset for not being able to spend alone time with you.

Ally could pick up the tone of disappointment in the Supreme's voice but she can only bring herself to feel pride as she tugged you closer to her, planting a kiss on your cheeck that have you smiling like a dork.

Cordelia clensed one fist at her side, trying to keep her powers and jealousy at bay as she watched the way you smile at the brunette, wishing it was her that you look at with so much adoration and love.

She watched a moment before clearing her throat, grabbing both you and Ally's attention to her.

"Let's go inside and greet the others." She walked past you and up the stairs as you and Ally followed close behind her.

Upon entering the building you took notice of Mallory and Queenie bickering over something, Zoe and Madison both on their phones while on the couch, completely ignoring the small bickering.

You quietly putted your suitcase on the floor and sneaked closer to the two on the couch before hugging Madison's shoulders from behind and saying loudly.

"Suprise bitch, bet you thought you'd never see me again!"

Madison threw her phone to the floor, eyes wide as saucers at being startled, her hands flying to your arms.

"OH MY FUCKING G!!" By that everyone's focused on you and Madison, Zoe glaring at her at the sudden yell but beaming when she saw you hugging the bitchy girl.

"(Y/N)?! What a surprise to see you!" Zoe got up from the sofa and walking around it to pull you into a welcomed hug that you returned.

"God bitch, you made me drop ma fucking phone." Madison glared at you over the couch but you pick up on the hint of a smile tugging at her lips as Queenie and Mallory rushed over to greet you eagerly.

Cordelia stood next to Ally, a adoring smile on her face as she watched the interaction between you and the girls.

"What's all this ruckus for young ladies?" Myrtle demanded as she walked down the stairs, looking around in alert for a moment until her eyes landed on you.

"My gosh. Am I seeing ghost or is this for real?" The red haired woman questioned jokingly as she walked over to you and pulled you into a hug.

"Myrtle. Am I glad to see you too." You spoke and returned the hug.

Ally could feel herself smiling at the interactions between the lot, glad to see the joy you rarely displayed.

"Just look at you. All grown up. I think I might just cry." Myrtle joked and you just rolled your eyes at her playfully.

"Hey! I was only away for six months, you make it sound like I was away for six years."

Myrtle chuckled at that. "Well, it certainly felt like you were away for six years dear."

You, Ally, Cordelia and the others sat on the sofa say to drink some coffee and catch up for awhile before Cordelia showed you to a guest bedroom that you and Ally will be sharing while Ally stayed behind to talk with the others.

"Thank you Delia." You thanked the blonde after putting your and Ally's suitcases in the room.

"It's not a problem Sweetheart." Cordelia said warmly.

You felt your heart raise at the pet name, choosing to brush it off along with the feeling of her eyes focused on you, becoming a bit tense under her gaze.

"Myrtle is still looking a bit into that earlier thing you told me about your magic. I think she's close to solving it, she was kinda excited and intrigued by it when I brought it up."

You stood there for a few moments and, your mind drifting a bit.

Cordelia walked closer to you, brown eyes focused on you intensely as she brushed a warm hand against your soft arm, noting the goosebumps appearing on your skin at her touch while you turned your head to hide the flush appearing on your cheecks.

The blonde leaned her head closer until you felt her breath against your cheeck. You could feel her eyes burning into you, thinking back to what Ally have said.

"(Y/N)." Cordelia whispered. "Look at me."

You shook your head slightly, thinking back to Ally's words, mind going on overdrive.

Cordelia could see you were lost in your head somewhat but she wanted your attention on her.

"Please look at me Sweetheart." She urged softly, her hand gripping your arm softly and tugging you closer.

You finally snapped your head towards her, (e/c) eyes meeting with her intense brown ones, emotions you couldn't quite place dancing behind her eyes.

Cordelia leaned closer, her lips brushing against your cheeck softly for a few moments, waiting to see your reaction and scared that you'd push her away as her lips stayed on one spot, both her hands trailing up your arms before cupping your cheecks.

"Cordelia." You whispered half shocked and half in a daze, your eyes falling shut as your heartbeat sped up.

She hummed, her lips trailing closer to your lips but you snapped your eyes open and immediately pushed her away.

A look of hurt crossed her face as she watched you put as much distance as possible between you and her.

"What the fuck Delia?" You asked dazely, feeling guilty at enjoying that a little too much as you thought of Ally.

"I'm...I'm sorry. I don't...know what came over me." Cordelia apologised, trying to mask her true feelings at this.

You looked at her for a moment before muttering. "I have to go." with that said you turned and walked down the stairs.

Cordelia stood still, her mind running wild, the feeling of your soft skin still lingering on her lips along with that familiar peaches and cream scent of your body wash as she fiddle with her hands, feeling a sense of longing tearing through her in a strong wave.

'What the hell came over me. She probably hates me now. The only person that gave me meaning even when she was lost and broken.' The blonde thinks loudly in her own head, one of her hands clenching into a fist.

"Miss Goode? Are you alright?" A voice startled the blonde but she calmed down upon seeing Nan standing a few feet away.

"I'm...I'm fine." Cordelia lied.

Nan only shook her head. "You aren't. Your thoughts are really loud and all over the place."

Cordelia collected herself a bit before looking at Nan again. "It's nothing to worry about. I must go." She said before walking to her own room, not ready to be asked more questions by Nan.

Nan only watched with a knowing look as Cordelia closed her door behind her, knowing the blonde have a crush on you from all her loud thoughts that is constantly focused all around you.

"Miss Goode. You can be such a fool sometimes." Nan whispered to herself before also going down the stairs to greet you eagerly.

You sat next to Ally, not paying, much attention to the others as you are lost in thought, your hand resting on Ally's upper leg while she covered your hand with hers on her leg, answering any questions the others asked her.

-End

Sorry for the long wait and that's it's super short, was not feeling well and things are a bit hectic. Who do you guys think the reader should end up with? I'm kinda conflicted but I also have a idea I may want to use with one of them. And sorry for this crappy part but I didn't want to take too long and leave ya hanging. I've also not added Ozzy in here.

[lovemalecforever]

Chapter 12

Family isn't always blood

Alec looked at his Parabatai then to his sister then to him again and sighed heavily before speaking. "Because there is something I want to talk about which needs all of your presence."

"Excuse me!?" Jace exclaimed, "Alec, I can feel your nervousness, what is going on? You're making me scared buddy, we almost lost yo-"

"Jace, calm down. I'll tell you when everyone will be here, and it's nothing bad, okay?"

Even after the reassurance, Jace was still not convinced. He could feel how scared and nervous Alec was through their bond. There were so many probabilities running through his mind, minding that Magnus wasn't there with him when that man never leaves his brother alone.

"Jace, stop. I can literally feel you getting stressed up, I told you, Jace, it's nothing, just... wait for a while."

Jace sighed and nodded. He had met his Parabatai, his brother after a long time, and making him upset or angry was the last thing he wanted. "Sorry Alec, but really, you told Izzy that you're coming but not me? Seriously? Am I not important to you anymore?" he dramatically put his hand over his chest. "You have hurt me, dude."

Alec rolled his eyes. "Stop being overdramatic, Jace. Besides, the look on your face told me that it was worth it."

"Boyzzz!" Izzy interrupted, shaking her head at her brothers for their silliness. "So, big brother, whom do you want to meet first, Clary or Simon?" Out of everyone, Izzy knew really well that Alec considers them family now, remembering the fact that he admitted it when she and Simon visited him.

"It's been long I've seen nugget in training mode. I would like to see her training and meanwhile, tell Simon to come here, I want to talk to you both privately before talking to everyone else."

"What the hell!? Alec, First, stop giving my girlfriend these stupid nicknames, and second what are you guys are up to?"

"Jace, stop." Izzy spoke firmly, "Don't bombard our brother with questions, he just arrived. And, besides, I want to see how Clary's doing so can we move now?"

"Fine, let's go." Jace sighed, and they left for the training room.

While heading towards the training room, Alec didn't miss the changes that had been made at the Institute, especially the weapons room. He knew he made the right decision to make his sister the Head of the Institute when he accepted the post of Inquisitor at Alicante, and she's doing a brilliant job. He couldn't help but feel proud of his sister.

It's been around an hour since Clary started her training, her hair was tied up in a ponytail, she was wearing a perfectly fitted navy blue sports bra with red stripes on it, the back having cross straps with blue-grey yoga pants and red and blue colored sports shoes. Her hands were wrapped in boxing bandages, blowing punches and kicks to the punching bag, which had now started to tear.

"Slow down Parabatai, looks like you're having a bad day, or did you not get it last night, huh?" Izzy teased as she walked towards her soon-to-be Parabatai, a smirk playing on her face, and Jace's face flushed.

"Izzy, Hey!" Clary greeted then held the towel that Izzy offered her. "And to answer your question, both. Bad day because Jace was being an idiot last night, and this morning too." She said, making Izzy burst into laughter.

"Really Clary, discussing our sex life with my sister!? Not appreciated!" Jace said as he walked in.

"She's my best friend, Herondale. I can discuss whatever I want." Clary shrugged and snatched the water bottle that he offered her.

"Oops! Looks like someone screwed up badly." Izzy said while suppressing her laugh, earning a glare from Jace.

Clary almost choked on the water she was drinking and dropped the bottle on the floor in the process when her eyes fell on the third person present in that room, standing by the door frame.

"ALEC!"

"Hello, Carrot!" Alec walked in and laughed when she literally jumped on him. "Get down, carrot, you're drenched in sweat."

"Really! Carrot, Carrot!? Seriously, Alec, I told you to stop giving her names, don't you-"

"I find it cute," Clary said, interrupting her boyfriend and making him dumbfounded. "Alec, when did you come? And where's Magnus?" She asked when her excitement died down and was back on her feet.

"Just now, and Magnus didn't come, I had some work."

"Okay, now I'm jealous, what had Simon done, big brother? Jace? Why do you both treat him like that?" Izzy pouted.

"I like him, but that vampire gets under my skin sometimes. No offense, Izzy." Jace said flatly.

"Izzy, Simon had done nothing, you know I like him, I just don't feel like being like that around him. There's nothing else." Alec reassured, making her sigh.

Izzy's phone buzzed, breaking their chain of conversation. She picked it up to check the message. "It's Si, he'll be here in some time. Your room or my office?" She asked.

"In my room," Alec answered while Jace and Clary kept glancing between the siblings. "I'll tell you both later."

Clary nodded. "I'm going to get a shower, see you later, Alec." With that, she picked up her stuff and left the hall.

"Wait, Clary! Excuse me!" Jace said hurried after his girlfriend leaving the other two laughing at their situation.

"It's good to have her back, you know," Izzy said when they both left the room. "Jace is a different person now, and happier too."

"I know. I can feel it. I'm happy for him, he deserves this. Looking back at how broken he was 3 years ago, I'm really happy that Clary got her memories back. They didn't deserve what happened 5 years ago."

"What's wrong!?" She asked when she noticed an unknown expression clouding her brother's face.

"Izzy, promise me you won't tell Jace what I'm about to say, else I won't hear the end of it."

Izzy raised her brow but eventually nodded.

"You know how much I used to hate Clary when she first came into our lives, she's still annoying, but looking at her now, at them, they are meant for each other, they complete each other. And I'm really happy that they found each other, all over again." He said, having a bright smile on his face.

"You're right, big brother. Jace will never stop teasing you if he'll hear what you just said. And, I agree, they are meant for each other."

Clary came back to their lives almost two and a half years ago. It took her almost a year and a half after meeting Jace at her painting exhibition to regain her memories of the shadow world. When she remembered Jace at the alley of the building where her exhibition was held, Jace frequented their meetings in the hope that she'd remember everything but hid it from everyone else. That was until Simon found out and confronted him, in the process bumping into her becoming the second person she remembered.

Clary always had an empty space in her heart, a void, which kept telling her that something was missing. That was until she met Jace, and she knew that she knew him from somewhere. There were bits and pieces in her mind of a club, bike riding, or some similar events, but they were never complete.

When both boys told everyone about Clary, it was Magnus who advised them to take things slow and not rush her memories. She met everyone, remembered them one by one, Luke being the third one, then Jocelyn, followed by the incomplete memory of her death, which resulted in regaining her memories at a great pace.

What broke the floodgates of her memories was when Jace and Clary were returning from their date, and they were attacked by a shapeshifting demon, which Clary killed with complete ease, shocked at first, but the sudden appearance and disappearance of her runes made her remember that she's a Shadowhunter.

The most beautiful thing which happened between all this was Clary fell in love with Jace all over again, oblivious about their past and Jace's feelings, making him the happiest person in the universe.

When she remembered everything, and stepped into the institute once again, and got all her runes back, she was visited by her mother's soul once again telling her that the Angels had forgiven her, she still has her extra share of powers, but she needs to be careful this time and not repeat the mistakes she made in the past. From that time on she became a completely new person. Better than before, more fierce, stronger, but still stubborn, annoying, and irritating at times.

The most epic thing to happen was Alec and Clary's relationship. From hating each other to frenemies to friends to a weird brother-sister relationship, they came a long way. The bitter comments Alec used to make about her were now more of teasing and mocking in a good way. They had started understanding each other, making everyone around them shocked with their bonding.

***************************

Simon was already pacing in Alec's room when Izzy and Alec entered, making Alec sigh out of frustration. "Stop digging holes in my carpet, Lewis," Alec commented.

"Really!?"

"Boys!" Izzy shook her head. "I can't with you people!" She mumbled, then turned towards her brother. "So, what did you find Alec?"

"Everything!" He answered and explained to them the complete process of becoming immortal. When he was done both of their faces were filled with shock and astonishment.

"So, you have to drink Fray's blood and ask her to talk to Angel Ithuriel on your behalf, that's... interesting. Do you think she'll agree?" Simon asked curiously.

"That we'll see. Are you both okay with this?" Alec asked hesitantly.

Simon and Izzy exchanged a look. "Of course we are, big brother. I'm really happy for you." She hugged her brother tightly. Alec looked at Simon who nodded and smiled at him, he smiled back and mouthed thank you to him.

They broke their hug and Alec sighed with relief. "I'm glad to have your support, but, Izzy, I need advice, I'm confused."

"What is it?"

"Should I wait for everyone to arrive and talk to them tonight altogether, or I'll talk to everyone privately? I don't know how everyone's gonna react, especially Jace and Clary."

Izzy didn't know what to say to that. She looked at Simon than at her brother, trying to form words when Simon broke the silence.

"Um... I don't know what you think, Iz, but I think you should talk to everyone privately, talking to everyone at the same time would mean too many emotions in one place when you don't know how will everyone react which can become uneasy for you. But it's completely up to you." He said carefully.

"I think you're right Simon, thank you. It might take time, but I'll get a fair amount of time with everyone. And I think I'm going to make Jace and Clary wait for the last." He said with a chuckle.

"Now, Izzy, till the time mom and Luke arrive, why don't you and Clary show me what I've asked for!?" He asked with a wide smile.

Simon had a confused expression from his question, making Alec chuckle with the realization that neither of the women had told anyone about the gifts he had asked them to help him make for Magnus.

"Come on then, big brother. It's in Clary's room." She wrapped her arm around her brother's, dropped the silencing rune, and walked towards Jace and Clary's shared room. When they were near their room they heard loud arguments coming from their room making them exchange looks.

"Can we come in Fray? Or are you both going to continue with whatever you were arguing about?" Simon asked while suppressing his laugh, earning a flying pillow from Clary, which he dodged successfully, making Alec and Izzy burst with laughter, and Jace completely embarrassed.

"Are you people done?" Alec asked.

Clary cleared her throat and steadied herself. "Yeah, come in."

"Are you still working on it, or is it completed? Alec wants to see it." Izzy said the excitement was clearly visible in her voice.

"Oh, are you sure Alec? It's not completed yet."

"Completed or not, I want to see both of your's!"

"Okay, it's in my art room."

"Art room?" "What the hell is going on!?" Alec and Jace said at the same time.

Jace was carefully listening to their conversation, making a frown appear on his forehead. He looked at Simon who was mirroring his confused expressions, but no one else, making his nerves rise.

Alec sighed. "Izzy and Clary, may I know why you both kept it hidden from them?" He waved towards Simon and Jace.

"We thought it would be nice to surprise them too, we want to see their expressions when it's done," Izzy said.

Jace and Simon exchanged a look, Jace was about to say something when Alec raised his hand to shut him up. He shook his head in disbelief. "I didn't get my answer, Art room?"

"Oh, my old room, now that I share the room with Jace, I converted that to my personal Art room. Are you really sure, Alec?"

"Yes, and anyways I want it completed before I leave for Alicante."

"Are you sure, big brother? Will you be able to hide from Magnus for that long?" Izzy raised her brow at him.

"Alec, if this makes you relieved, I got permission from Angels to use the portal rune as a permanent rune for me, and anyways I and Izzy are gonna portal to the lakeside to complete all the decorations you've asked for. You can meet us there and take the gifts from us." Clary said.

Alec looked at Clary in disbelief. "You got permission? That's something. Okay then, take your time, but it should be completed by Wednesday."

"We're almost done, big brother. Don't worry!"

*************

They all walked towards Clary's Art room, Alec was way too excited to see what they've done. Clary opens the door, which was filled with the scent of fresh colors, different shapes of brushes were spread in the whole room and a bunch of them were kept in a pen stand with several watercolor bottles and charcoal pencils on a wooden table in the corner of the room. There were different shapes of canvases filled in the whole room.

Clary went forward and removed a red-colored cloth that was covering a medium-sized canvas, only to reveal 3 frame-sized paintings pinned on the canvas, the 4th one was ongoing and one was empty. Alec's jaw fell on the ground seeing them.

"You... you're painting them!?"

"You like it?" Clary asked nervously, biting her nails, and looked at Izzy.

Alec went forward and traced his fingers over the painting of their wedding, both in tuxedos, holding hands, a look of pure happiness on their faces. "Put this in the center, and frame them properly. Magnus is going to love it. And I do too. Thank you, redhead!"

Clary sighed with relief and nodded with a warm smile.

"What the he-"

"Wow, these are beautiful Fray, so that's not the only surprise you're planning for Magnus? It's so lovely!"

"Yes, there's more Simon. I told you and Izzy alre-"

"What is going on!? And why am I the only one who doesn't know anything!?" Jace yelled.

Alec sighed for the billionth time that day. "Jace, are you really not getting it, or are you seriously not remembering!?"

Every eyes were on Jace now. "Remember wha... oh shit!" He gulped when he realized the paintings were from Alec's wedding to all of their following anniversaries. And it's his brother's anniversary next week.

"Sorry, Alec. I forgot about your anniversary. So, that's why Magnus is not here, you're planning a surprise, huh?" He said teasingly knowing that his brother is bad with surprises.

Alec rolled his eyes and smacked Jace on the back of his head, earning a whiney 'Ow' from him while others burst into laughter. "So, Izzy!?"

"It's in the weapons room, come on!"

*********************

They were all in the weapons room, Izzy had vacated the room for some time, and they were the only five present there. She went towards the right side rack, opened the second last drawer and took out a black-colored box, and walked towards the center table where everyone was standing.

"Big brother, it's yet to be completed. The whole engraving is remaining, you sure!?"

"Engraving?" Others said in unison.

"Yes, Izzy! Just show me whatever is done!"

Izzy opened the box to reveal a set of 3 diamond rings, sitting on fake fingers, two on the base and one in the middle of the finger, each connected with silver chains having tiny emeralds covering the whole chain. It was a really beautiful ring. There was a bundle of diamond cuts sitting on the base of the box.

Everyone's jaws were dropped on the floor. The ring was shining brightly in the dullness of the room.

"Why extra diamonds?" Clary asked curiously.

"These are going to be fixed on the engraving. Alec, thoughts?" She asked, her voice filled with nervousness and excitement.

"Wow! I... I'm speechless. You did a great job, Izzy. Magnus is definitely going to fall in love with it."

"I already am," Clary confessed. Her eyes were shining with the lights the diamond ring was emitting.

"I didn't know my girlfriend was this talented!" Simon said. He and Jace were completely dumbfounded.

They all got out of their trance with a loud squeal Izzy made, way too excited and proud of her work. They all exchanged a look and shook their heads at her.

Before Izzy could say, her phone buzzed and her expressions went from excited to soft.

"What?" Alec asked.

"Mom and Luke are here, you're ready, Alec?"

Alec sighed. "Let's get this over with!"

[echo-three-one]

Whatever It Takes : RELOADED

Let's make the next chapter pink.

Table of Contents

Previous Chapter : Undying Admiration

Chapter 21 to another story made by Ray (echo-three-one) Comments and Reviews appreciated! I hope you enjoy! Love you all ❤️

back at it again with the piccrew

If I Remember Correctly

Maxine Winters

Safe House 110197, Brazil

Maxine looked at Samantha and smiled. They were finally together once again, as roommates, but this time, the room was huge and they were surrounded by strong men who were willing to risk their lives to protect them.

"How are you holding up?" Maxine asked.

"Everything's a swirl of hazy incomplete memories. It feels like I'm mostly recalling them back, but the details are a bit mixed. It doesn't feel right that I recall Alex as someone from work, right?" she chuckled. She must've been going through a lot of things right now, and it looked like Alex successfully helped her recall most of her forgotten memories. Maybe all she needed was someone to influence her.

"Hey Sam, what kinds of things have I told you about my past? France already told me some of my unforgettable memories but they still seem too unclear." She asked, Samantha looked excited as she began recalling something from the unaltered part of her memory.

"Well, for starters you told me a lot about your little sister. However since your mother died, the two of you were always together solving the problems as a team until you both decided to enlist her in the army. You told it was both the happiest and saddest moment of your life." She said with a smile on her face. Maxine never felt anything but knowing that that was their situation, it made sense how France was trying hard to win her back. She was the only one she had. And it must've hurt that the only companion she ever had didn't even remember her.

"I… I didn't know that…" she faltered. Samantha quickly reached out a hand to hold hers.

"Just take your time to remember… I'm sure France understands the situation." Samantha replied, turning to the door as it slowly pushed itself open. Alex peeked from the said door and asked.

"Am I disturbing any girl talk?"

"A little. But I'll forgive you for now." Samantha grinned as Alex entered the room, dressed in comfortable sleeping wear.

"I made a deal with France to swap sleeping positions for tonight. Make sure skipping tomorrow's pancake will be worth it." he winked as he settled behind Samantha, the spooning was awkward as his metal leg was unbendable and heavy, but Maxine noticed the smile in Samantha's eyes and how it quickly forgot the uncomfort he was giving her. Maybe that's true love.

"Aw… I was about to add extra honey to your plate, Alex. What you did to Samantha was the sweetest thing ever. I guess France is up for a treat." She joked, making the girls giggle while Alex furrowed his brows.

"Well then, this night better be worth it." He proceeded to tickle Samantha and they found themselves rolling and rolling. Maxine took a minute to admire the scenery before her eyes slowly closed itself to sleep.

~

Ever since being brainwashed, Maxine wasn't able to dream of something, every morning she would be greeted by the same empty feeling, her thoughts would always consist of recent events.

This night was different. She vividly recalled a rainy afternoon. She and Francine stood by their mother's grave.

"I'm going to the army next week, Mom. It might take a while since I'll be seeing you again." Francine knelt and placed a small floral pot they arranged.

"Yeah Mom, your daughter finally used her toughness somewhere other than fighting me!" She remembered herself joking and nudging her sister. These were things that they did on a weekly basis, visit their mother’s grave and talk about their week.

“And since she’s out training for the rest of her life, I decided to move to California, maybe look for restaurants to work on maybe look for someone special.” Maxine mused. She could hear France giggle.

“I, on the other hand, won’t let myself fall for any of those tough army men.” France added.

“Are you sure about that? It’s like… turning down a million dollar offer.” Maxine teased.

“It really depends on the person. But while I’m in training, I’ll focus on improving.” She amended.

Then the memory faded, it felt like tv static started to consume her whole dream until she found herself awake, gasping for air.

“You okay?” Alex groggily asked her, cuddling Samantha who was sound asleep. She nodded and got up, she felt very thirsty.

Maxine hurriedly walked down the stairs quietly passing the empty command center. Oddly enough, the kitchen light was open and she could hear soft clanking of cutlery. She took a peek at Gary Sandersom, who’s sticking his tongue out and too busy making finishing touches on a cake of sorts. She knew they didn't have the right mould for basic pastries but seeing him actually holding a cake, surprised her.

“So this is the reason I wake up to missing ingredients.” She spoke firmly and crossed her arms, walking closely to Roach who scrambled and immediately hid the cake behind him.

“I’m just trying out new stuff. Baking looked fun.” He lied, stepping further back until his butt hit the sink.

“I already saw what you’re working on Gary. How did you form the shape? We didn’t have any mold.”

“When there’s a will, there’s a way.” He smiled proudly and showed her his cake. It was cylindrical, almost like that of a

“Mugs.” he explained as Maxine crept closer to his work, her eyes probed around it like a judge from masterchef.

“Wow. This looks nice. Is this for you?” she asked, feeling Gary’s body shake differently.

“Actually, it’s for you… France told me about your birthday and since I already missed it. I wanted to share one with you. You know… for uh… formality.” he stuttered. It was obvious that Gary was nervous. She felt this ever since they started cooking together, and she noticed that he was improving around her.

“Aww… thanks. No one’s ever baked a cake for me. Samantha just buys them.” Maxine chuckled and sat on the chair as Gary pulled out a candle and lit it.

“I’m supposed to give you one before we leave tomorrow. I guess you got too excited.” he laughed nervously and gently placed his hand on her shoulder. Maxine gently reached for the hand and grazed it softly, smiling at Gary’s excited face.

“Make a wish.” Gary whispered, his minty breath tickled her nose. Maxine closed her eyes as the warm flame heated her cheeks. She would have wished for something personal, but instead she wished for something she thought needed to happen first.

“I wish… that this war will be over.” she opened her eyes and blew her candle as Roach silently clapped and cheered.

“Belated Happy Birthday Maxine.” He greeted with a warm hug, Maxine slowly gave in to his embrace and faced him. Tension sparked in the air between them as the chemicals moving between them started to react to each other, drawing their lips closer to each other. It was almost automatic, none of them held back as their lips clashed into a soft yet intense kiss. Their tongues were too shy to act but the lips were eager to meet again, soft smooches filled the quiet kitchen as their hands started to climb up to their faces.

“I.. um..” Gary shyly held back, his hands parted from her cheeks as they both stepped back from each other.

“It’s okay…" She whispered quickly, turning back to get herself a glass of water to calm herself from her nightmare and to cool off the heat of her body.

"I take it you're going back to bed?" Gary asked, leaning his arms across the table, looking at the cake.

"I think I can't sleep after that dream." She muttered. The reply signaled Roach to grab a fork and sit beside her.

"Dream? You're having dreams now?" Roach asked curiously, taking a slice off the cake and pointing the fork to her mouth.

"Yeah." Maxine continued with a vivid description of her dream, Roach momentarily spoon feeding her with cake every after thought.

Maxine actually stayed all morning talking to Roach, they discussed mostly about her dream and Roach was there to listen. He was what Maxine needed at the moment, a great listener who happened to be someone she's starting to fall for. She could also feel him growing close to her, that wasn't just any birthday kiss… I felt something else.

Maxine was almost jealous of Roach's colorful life. He shared so much of him that she actually felt guilty that she was only able to share one. He had lots of stories involving encounters with animals and most of it was about his dog.

"If you were to choose… Which animal would you prefer as a pet?" Gary asked curiously. The question made Maxine stop and think, admiring the slowly rising sun as she goes.

"Parrots sound fun. They talk back."

"Only if you teach them to…" Gary responded. He always does that, he's adding comments to her replies until they both agreed on a thing.

"Why do you keep doing that?" Maxine finally asked.

"Do what?"

"You know, influencing me to agree on your opinion?"

"I just want you to think I actually have something to say… Plus it keeps the conversation going… because I never really wanted it to stop." He smiled.

"Oi, Roach. Why is there no hot water yet?" Price yelled.

"Hang on Captain! The kettle isn't whistling yet!" Roach replied running to the kitchen leaving an amazed Maxine behind. A few minutes later Francine approached her.

No words were spoken as Maxine immediately wrapped her sister around her arms, she was really all she had and she was guilty that she couldn't remember her when they first met.

"I'm glad you found me… even amidst this mess." Maxine whispered to France's ears. She could feel her tears falling on her as they enjoyed the tender moment of their reunion.

"I remembered only one memory. Of us before we separated and lived independently. I think it's all I needed to truly tell who I am." Maxine said as Francine sobbed.

"I love you sis." France hugged again as they both cried.

Next Chapter : Going Dark Part 1

Notification Squad my Beloved

@smokeywhalee @samatedeansbroccoli @enderio @whimsywispsblog @beemybee @ricinbach

[sofreddie]

This Is How We Heal (Part 12)

Summary: Jared and Reader meet due to an unfortunate accident. They talk and end up leaning on one another because they feel no one else understands.

Characters: Reader, Dani, OCs

Warnings: Minor Angst, Fluff

Word Count: 1,113

A/N: I sat stagnant. My whole existence became about my depression and I couldn't escape. One day I realized I hadn't thought about the things that had caused my grief or pain in so long. That realization suddenly reignited my healing process. I finally felt I got to a place where I could write the ending of the story. I caught up to my characters in their healing process.

Series Masterlist

My Masterlist

PART 11

"Alright, boys, we're headed out," Dani said as she looked between Jared and Jensen with a smile.

It was the weekend following her nightmare and conversation with Jared. Dani came by out of the blue, insisting that her and Y/N were taking a spa weekend. She had a feeling Jared was behind it somehow.

"Are you sure?" Y/N protested one again, which she had done from the moment Dani arrived and all through Dani's whirlwind packing of her things, "It's really not necessary. I can stay here-"

She was cut off by Dani slapping a hand over her mouth before turning to the guys, "See? Proof she needs this." Dani insisted again, the guys laughing and nodding as Dani drug Y/N from the house.

Jared had urged her to take the weekend and relax. She was long overdue for a rest. Even Liam told her she needed a break and he promised he'd be fine while she was gone.

He was maturing so well. He was sad over the loss of his father. But he handled it gracefully. Y/N admired his strength. He was the happiest she had ever seen him.

She was having moments of happiness too. Ones that surprised her, that broke through the storm clouds of her mind like bright, warm rays of sunlight.

Liam's happiness was a big part of that.

Jared was another huge part.

He helped her to feel less broken. He listened to her fears and concerns. He didn't disregard them or push them aside.

Other than the occasional chaste kiss shared between them in moments that seemed to demand the action, nothing had really changed between them.

Y/N was still scared, her nightmare still weighed heavily on her mind. But she couldn't figure out why she struggled to move past it. As they pulled up to the lavish building, Y/N hoped maybe she'd find the answer. Or at least feel a small bit of peace from whatever lay beyond those doors.

Later in the day, after having undergone several treatments together and chatting away, they found themselves lounging in robes, towels tied on their heads, and cucumber slices over their eyes. Though to be honest, half of them were being eaten.

"I want you to know, Y/N, that I really care about Liam, and you," Dani said after a while of quiet between them, "You two have come to be part of our little, awkward, bundled together family," she chuckled warmly.

Y/N wasn't sure what to say to that. She knew she cared, but she didn't know the extent of her heart for her and her son. Family? She was honored, but did she really fit in there?

"I'm grateful to have friends like you."

"Family, Y/N," Dani insisted, "We've adopted you and you're stuck. Try to run, I dare you, Jared's like a freakin' gazelle!" she chuckled, Y/N laughing with her. She wasn't a runner herself. But she was glad Jared had such a productive outlet.

Not to mention how great he looked all sweaty and panting. She tried hard to ignore that, but it stirred there anyway every time. She knew Jared wanted more with her. She'd be lying if she said she didn't either. But her grief and guilt held her back.

"Can I be totally honest with you for a minute?" Y/N asked timidly. She hadn't really talked with anyone about anything important, other than Jared. But she often felt maybe his opinion was skewed.

If there was one thing she'd learned about Dani was that she was no BS.

"Of course," Dani responded with a nod, tucking her legs under her as she shifted on her lounger to face Y/N, giving her her complete attention.

Y/N took a deep breath and closed her eyes to steady herself. She explained the dream she had and how she felt after. She explained what happened with Jared, and then of course the kiss. Kissing, she supposed. It hadn't really stopped.

Dani listened to her every word, silently taking it all in. She nodded along and observed Y/N's body language as she spoke. The grief, the guilt, it was visible.

"I knew Gen for many years," Dani said with a smile after Y/N had finished venting, "She was amazing. Lively and down to earth and silly and smart and so beautiful," she said wistfully, forcing back the tears from missing her, "Someone everyone loved," she sniffed.

Then she turned serious, her gaze leveled on Y/N, "I think she would be so happy that Jared and the kids have you and Liam," she insisted. Y/N started shaking her head, but Dani put her hand on her forearm, silencing her, "They adore you. We adore you. I know you don't see it or understand it yet, but you really are our Angel."

Y/N felt the tears welling up. She knew she was gonna cry. Dani pouted too and they laughed as they hugged, soothing each other through the moment. Y/N was so very grateful to have someone like Dani in her life.

There was a time she wasn't very warm to her. When Dani had taken charge of her life and made her do things she didn't want. But in retrospect, Dani was fighting for her and forcing her to fight for herself and her son.

She'd be lost without her.

She was broken from her thoughts as she heard her name being called. She turned, looking for the source, and finding it quickly.

"Sara?" Y/N responded, a bit shocked to see the woman who had been an old neighbor and friend of her and Brian's many years before.

Brian.

She hadn't thought about him in - well, she wasn't sure how long. But she didn't feel bad about it like she thought she would. After a quick catch-up and heart-felt condolences, she was gone as quick as she appeared.

Dani turned to Y/N, ready to see a negative reaction to the situation. But Y/N was surprised at herself. Not only had she not thought about her guilt for a while, but it didn't hurt.

"Dani," Y/N spoke with a smile, "Thank you. For your help and support and what you said about Gen," she relaxed back into her lounger with a sigh, "I think I've been so deep in grief for so long that it's just become a part of me. But I think maybe I can start to let it go."

"See," Dani smirked, "Told you a spa day was necessary. Obviously this means more spa visits are in order," she chuckled, Y/N laughing right along with her.

Maybe she was right. With the way she was feeling, it had to count as therapy, right?

PART 13

Forevers:

@sis-tafics

@lyarr24

@calaofnoldor

@hobby27

@spnbaby-67

RPF:

@smoothdogsgirl

[milasartblog]

Advice

Sometimes humans need to let things out and ask for help those, who are capable to do it. These people call themselves psychologists or therapists. But sometimes even divine creatures need such people. Seemed a bit silly for them, you say. Well, one of few deities doesn't think so, an angel called Nicole. Today she was in her office in a thought, when suddenly she heard a knock.

Nicole: Yes, come in.

When the door opened, she looked at a person, whose face was familiar.

Nicole: Sir Michael, good day. Pleasure to see you. Please, come in.

Michael: Hello, Niki. Glad to see you too.

He walked in as he closed the door behind him.

Nicole: Please, take a sit.

Both of them took their seats as Nicole prepared her tablet for work.

Michael: Hope you got my message.

Nicole: I did and honestly, I'm a bit surprised that you need my help. I mean, it's not like I mind, but knowing how archangels are powerful.

Michael: You know that even archangels need help from people like you, Niki. Plus, you're the only one whom I can trust for advice.

Nicole: That's very kind of you, Sir. I will do my best.

Michael: Please, just Michael. And well, the situation is not one of those that I can't handle, it's....I just got stuck on what to do.

Nicole: It's connected with recent events that you told me in message, right?

Michael: Yes.

He sighed deeply and heavily, feeling like not going into too much details, and yet hiding such obvious thing is also not good.

Michael: You know about my relationship with Luci, right?

Nicole: Well, everyone knows. If you're worried about being judged by me, no worries, I'm not a gossip person and not the one to judge.

Michael: I know. Just, the news about fight between Lucifer and Algaron flew so fast and now some angels and demons can't stop talking about it.

Nicole: There were a lot of talkings about it. But I guess the problem is deeper.

Michael nodded as put his hands in pray possition, sighing heavily.

Michael: Even tho I trust you, I can't tell the results of the fight. But because of this situation, Lucifer is....not like himself. I mean, he still acts like Lucifer, but....sometimes they seem fake to me. It's unlike him. He even does those demon things with me rarely. I-I mean, it's good that I had a break from it, but....

Nicole: He didn't even pay attention to his job, to you and others, he felt a sudden feeling of guilty and spends more time isolated, right?

Michael: No, it's not like this. I just feel like....he hides something from me. He kept repeating "I failed you....I'm not the one whom you should hope for....I'm sorry". I tried to talk to him, but he kept repeating "I'm fine, it's nothing. Don't worry about me" and so on. I don't want to force him to talk with me, but also I want to help with a problem he is dealing with....

Nicole: So you just want to talk with him, but he keeps dodging your questions. That's so demon likely.

He looked down, closing his eyes, trying to think. Meanwhile Nicole took time to analyse the situation with what she had. Then, she sighed.

Nicole: Look, Si- umm, Michael, I know that you're a soft person, but if you really want to talk with him, you have to make up a situation, comfortable for him.

Michael: I tried. Even at the sea cost, his favourite place to be, he felt like not being honest with me.

Nicole: Then provoke him.

Suddenly Michael's expression changed to puzzled and stunned.

Michael: What?? But why??

Nicole: You said that nothing you do works. As I understood, you tried to solve the situation from angel's side. However, you know better than me that demons are natural liars. So, instead, just provoke him for chat.

Michael: But isn't it a bit harsh?

Nicole: I didn't say to provoke in a bad way. Plus, some demons like unusual provocations. Just try to do something that is not like you, something that Lucifer has never expected from you to do it.

Michael thought about things that Lucifer ever did and immediately blushed.

Michael: I can't do any of this! W-What if he finds it more entertaining for him??

Nicole: You're sometimes too simple, Michael. I didn't say to do it all the time. Think about the thing that will be simple and yet will not cause damage to angel reputation.

Michael got into thought again as he kept blushing.

Michael: Well, there is one thing I can try. But what if this is not going to work too?

Nicole: It has to. If not, then it's his demon side. But if it works, the only thing you need to do is telling straight that you want to talk. Even if it's hurtful thing.

Michael:....I still want to try to be not harsh, but I will try this thing. It's just I'm not used to be that serious.

Nicole: I know. I'm not forcing you to follow exactly what I say. I just hope that it will somehow helps. I mean it.

Michael looked at her with smile.

Michael: And how can you still look serious while talking about it?

Nicole: I'm always serious about my job.

Michael: Well, then you should be a bit soft from time to time.

Nicole: Not when it's about job.

Michael giggled softly as stood up and was about to go.

Michael: Well, thank you, Nicole. I felt a bit relieved to talk with you about it.

Nicole: That's my job to do it, Michael. I hope to see you again some time.

Michael: Will do my best to pay a visit outside of work. For now, take care.

Nicole: You too.

And he walked outside of the office. Nicole meanwhile walked to her table as sighed deeply.

Nicole: Remind me why I still do this job.

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And that's another story of our universe^^ And a new character appeard thanks to the chat XD Soon will post a reference about her^^ For now, hope you will enjoy the story^^

Michael and Nicole belong to @wildstarfan and @milasartblog (both me)

Okaria et Feria belongs to @wildstarfan and @captainthane