#i've left her a voicemail!!! twice!!!!

[queenerdloser]

okay. super annoying of a rental company to demand that the only way you can schedule showings is via phone (no online scheduler, no email even) and then repeatedly fail to either get the phone or call back. what the fuck is this. not only do i have to call you once - something i loathe - but now i have to keep calling & calling just to see if this time someone will actually answer??? just let me schedule it onlineeeeee i'm begging youuuuu

[thefallennightmare]

Miracle-fourteen

Pairings: Noah Sebastian x Reader

Warnings/Tropes: forced proximity, slight enemies to lovers, slow burn, smut, angst, fluff, mentions of death, and swearing.

Summary: Reader is the merch girl for Bad Omens. It wasn't what she wanted to do with her life but when her mother got sick with Alzheimer's, reader took a job where she could to help with the costs. She thought it would be a one-time gig but the longer she was on the road with them, the harder she fell for Noah Sebastian; even if he wanted nothing to do with her. She needed a miracle to save her mom and her future.

Author Note: Whoopsie daisy.

Tags: @ada-clarence @nonamessblog @thescarlettvvitch @malice-ov-mercy @crimson-calligraphyx @theoneandonlykymberlee @yumikitten @blackveilomens @cherrymedicine13 @thebadchic @notmaddihealy @jay02bo @beaker1636 @jakekiszkasguitarpick @punk-pr1ncessxoxo @er3nslovergirl @iamdesolate @lma1986 @jessitpwk @themodern-daywednesday @writethrough @bngurngheart @dreams-that-are-anwsered @loeytuan98 @omens-in-reverse @loverofagoodbeard @jay02bo @niicoleleigh

My eyes held firm on the laptop screen in front of me as I worked tiredly on editing some pictures I've taken the last few days. Bryan sent me over his own and I had plans on posting them all over the Bad Omens social media sites. It should have been done a few days ago but everything with my mom and Noah kind of halted my plans.

Noah.

I tried not to think about what he was doing right now, although I had a pretty good idea. Him and the guys were at their meet and greets. Ever since our fight on the bus about 5 days ago, I had avoided him as best I could. It was pretty easy because I started traveling on the crews bus again which as much as he wanted to know what happened, Davis didn't pry for answers. While Folio checked in on me a few times the last few days, Noah hasn't reached out once. It was stupid to be upset when I could have reached out but I told him I needed time yet he was the one that pushed me away.

Every time we were backstage for a show, I made sure I stayed out of the green room and when I was on stage taking their pictures; I took all of my shots of Noah from a distance. There'd been times our gazes would lock but with him performing, I knew I was safe and he wouldn't try to talk to me.

My phone buzzed on the couch next to me and when I saw the caller's I.D., I ignored it with a groan. This was the third time that Lana tried calling me today and each time I sent it straight to voicemail. She called every day which I only answered twice and kept the conversations quick. I was still pretty upset about everything I found out about my mom so the last thing I wanted was to talk about her. I threw out the excuse that since we were nearing the end of the tour, about a week left, I'd been swamped with work.

It wasn't a total lie but nonetheless, Lana's phone calls became less frequent; until today.

The quiet serenity of the green room was exactly what I needed to finish editing the pictures and uploading them to Instagram. Once that was checked off my list, I opened up another program on my laptop to edit another set of pictures. I was alone in here so I didn't have to worry about anyone seeing these.

As usual, money was getting tighter since I had posted nothing on Only Fans in a while. I was getting new subscribers every day but not enough to keep incoming steady. These pictures were the most risqué I'd done yet; completely naked but my face still covered.

It went against everything I said in the beginning but desperate times called for desperate measures. Lana's final paycheck would be due in a few days and this one was going to be the biggest yet. And that I needed to save some money in order to pay to put my mom in a facility. Even though I was furious with her, she still deserved to have help from doctors and people that knew what they were doing.

With a sigh, I uploaded the photos to my site before idling with my laptop, unsure if my next move should be worth the risk.

"Do you actually want to reach out to him or are you feeling guilty for not knowing about him?"

Folio's voice rang in my mind from last night as I talked with him post show. I asked him if he thought it was a good idea or not to reach out to my brother James. Deep down I knew I wasn't going to reach out to him because I wanted to move on from everything. I wanted nothing to remind me of a past that was all a lie. As soon as I return home from tour, I'd look at some facilities with Lana and we'd chose the best one for me mom. Then I could start looking forward to a bright future.

With Noah.

Quickly I shook the thoughts out of my head. He told me not to bother, so I planned on keeping it that way.

Yeah right.

I placed my laptop back into my bag just as the door to the green room opened and in walked Jolly followed by Nick.

"Hey," I smiled. "How'd the meet and greet go?"

"Good," Nick sat down next to me with an exhausted breath. "I'm hoping to get a few minutes of sleep before we go on."

I patted his knee, understanding how long and draining this tour had been on everyone. "Nine more days and we can all enjoy the comfort of our own beds."

"Until Europe in a month," Jolly reminded as he sat down on the other side of me.

My shoulders fell, completely forgetting about another tour this time halfway around the world. I hadn't thought much about what exactly I'd be doing after setting my mom up in a facility. To be honest, there wasn't anything holding me back from going on the next leg of the tour. The money that I'd be getting would definitely help keep things afloat even when I stopped my Only Fans.

The only downside was seeing Noah for a prolonged period.

You can't avoid him forever, dumbass.

With a grumble to the voices in my head, I sat with Nick and Jolly as we talked for a while until the door to the room opened again, this time Noah walking in with Folio behind. From what I've seen over the last few days, their relationship hasn't soured or was ruined because of me.

Folio tossed me a smile as he ruffled through his bag for a change of clothes while Noah had his eyes glued to his phone. There was a slight tick in his jaw as he scrolled through something and with the way his cheeks reddened, I figured whatever it was, wasn't supposed to be seen by anyone.

But why did he look angrier than flustered? No, it looked like whatever he was looking at turned him on; shallow breaths, flushed cheeks, and I didn't miss the way he adjusted himself as he slid the phone into the pocket of his grey sweats. I did my best not to gawk at him wearing just a plain white tank. I was supposed to be upset with him, not horny.

When his eyes met mine, it was as if time slowed down and my heart hammered in my chest as I wondered what he was going to do. This was the first time in five days that we were this close to each other.

But of course, my stubborn ass had to add more fuel to the fire.

"What?" I raised a brow. "Are you going to accuse me of sleeping with Jolly and Nick now?"

Noah's eyes sliced into me. "I wouldn't be surprised."

"Fuck you!" I spat while rising to my feet. "You're back to being an asshole to me because I said I didn't want a relationship right now? Grow up, Noah."

"All I'm saying is that you seemed to move on pretty fast," he said with a shrug.

I stared blankly at him, utterly confused, however, I never got the chance to ask what the fuck he meant by that because my phone rang; again.

Lana flashed across the screen and I slammed my thumb against the red button.

"I'm going to get some air," I muttered while pushing past Noah, daring not to touch him.

"Try not to get lost in some guy's lap," Noah bit out just before the door slammed shut.

The walk around the block did absolutely nothing to calm the rage burning in my gut or stop the phone calls from Lana. I sent her a text to say I was busy with work and would call her later. I planned on doing another circle around the block but knew I had to get back to the venue because the guys were going on stage soon. I didn't want to anger Noah even more by being late so here I was, fake smile plastered on my face and camera clutched in my hand as I made my way towards the green room.

Previously, I stated I wanted to get a few shots of the guys before going on stage and although angry as I was, I still wanted that.

"You've got to be fucking kidding me," I cursed when my phone rang again.

I was ready to chuck it against the wall at this point however when I saw the unknown number; I gave pause. Something in my gut was telling me that this call was important and I shouldn't ignore it.

Just outside the green room, I answered the phone with a cautious tone.

"Hi, Y/N. This is Nancy Smith, your neighbor."

Oh yes. The good one that understands my moms diagnosis. But why was she calling me?

"Did my mom-."

Nancy's frantic voice cut me off. "Lana has been trying to reach you all day. Something's happened to your mother, and she's in the hospital."

My heart fell into my stomach, pulled down by the guilt.

"Wh-what happened?" I asked.

"She was driving and crashed; the car is totaled. It's not looking good, honey. Lana mentioned you travel for work?"

What the fuck. She wasn't supposed to be driving.

I nodded even though she couldn't see me. "Yeah, I'm in Oregon so it might take me a while to get home. But I'll get on the next flight as soon as I can."

Not bothering to say goodbye, I hung up the phone and stood for a moment to blow out a few deep, shaky breaths. Tears burned in my eyes as I blamed myself. Maybe if I answered Lana's first call, I could have been there earlier.

"Fucking idiot," I cursed myself.

In order for me to leave, I needed to talk to Noah since technically he hired me.

I'd rather chew on a brick of concrete.

With shaky hands but a stern face, I stood taller as I walked into the green room. Bryan, Davis, and Matt were there along with Bad Omens who were all dressed and ready to go on stage. Folio's eyes fell on me and knew instantly something was wrong but I shook my head, not wanting to go into it in front of them. I already decided that I would only tell Noah I needed to leave for a family emergency and wouldn't be able to work the rest of the tour.

Noah was slipping on his jacket as I walked up to him.

"Noah?" My voice was quiet.

Looking over his shoulder, Noah gave a curt nod.

"Uh," I faltered over my words. "I need to go home."

This made him turn on his heels as he scoffed. "What?"

"I have to go home," I didn't dare raise my voice because I didn't want the others to hear.

"Why? Because I said some things that hurt your feelings? Grow up, angel," He repeated my words back to me.

I was in such a state of shock that his pet name for me didn't even register.

"No," I said with clenched fists. "There's a family emergency. I have to go home."

Noah ran a hand over his jaw. "No."

I gawked at him, rage now spilling out every pore on my skin. "Excuse me?! Did you not hear that it's an emergency?"

"If you leave before the tour is finished, you don't get paid. You won't have a job," he shrugged before buttoning his jacket.

The fucking audacity of him. How did I ever have feelings for such an asshole?

An attractive asshole who looked amazing with his jacket undone at the top and silver chain glimmering in the room's light.

"I need the money, Noah."

He leaned in closer, lips so close to mine that I could almost taste the richness of him.

"Then don't leave."

I ground my teeth together. "Two days. Please, all I'm asking for is two days to get things shorted out then I'll be back."

Noah's eyes grazed over my face. "Are you going to tell me why you need to leave?"

With a hesitant shake of my head, I ignored the stares from everyone in the room.

"No, but please understand I need the money. I promise I'll be back in two days."

He chuckled darkly, voice raising to echoing levels. "Why? Is your Only Fans not paying enough? Not surprised with the content you post. I've seen better in amateur porn."

The sound of skin on skin rang loudly in the room as my palm collided with his cheek. His finger brushed along his lip where he bit it from how hard I slapped him.

"Fuck you, Noah!" I screamed.

All sets of us were on us and I knew without a doubt that they heard what Noah had said. His face was still turned to the ground but looked up at me through his lashes.

"My mom is in the hospital. She was in a car accident and might not make it. So do me a favor, keep your fucking money and stay the hell out of my life. I quit."

Not sparing him another glance, I stormed out of the room and away from whatever chance we had to make things work between us.

[onyourstageleft]

today has been a day

1a) woke up early as hell to be productive before work

1b) still can't shake a sinus infection so I've been snuffling and miserable through the whole day

2) worked a whole 8 hour day in the baby room at the daycare

3) got a "wanna have sex" text on my way to my car (I did want to) however...

4) get home to my partners mad as hell bc our management company had to kill the vibe and announce our lot rent raise (another $55/month starting in July) so didn't actually get to have sex

5a) started planning to move out by July of next year so we looked at places for sale out of curiosity

5b) found a place we actually really like that is feasible right now

5c) called and left a voicemail for our financial advisor about it and also called an agent and scheduled a tour of the place for tomorrow

6a) as we're discussing what questions we have about the house to ask tomorrow my MIL calls bc...

6b) my husband's aunt just passed last week and they're dealing with funeral planning but deceased aunt's kids are being shitty (stealing her stuff from the house that she lived in with my MIL to sell/pawn)

6c) so husband is talking her down from a breakdown while also telling her to report the Aunt's car stolen bc it's technically held in probate but her son with a very storied criminal past took it from the house earlier today to "keep it safe"

7a) while that call is going on my mom texts me to tell me to approve an Amazon login which (long story short) is fraudulent so

7b) I have to completely reset my Amazon account and tell Mom how to actually deal with the recurring scam charge on my grandmother's credit card

8) finally get to finish making (and eat) the slow cooker dinner I started on before work today

oh and like twice through all of this phlem gets caught in my throat so badly that I have to go to the bathroom to deal with the threat of throwing up mucus. so that's been my day

I'm ready to go to bed

[athenodora-sulpicia-writer]

Enchanted- Vesper Lynd x FemReader

Context: You work for MI6 and are attending a gala type party they’re hosting, only to find that your girlfriend, Vesper Lynd, hasn’t yet arrived and she’s the only reason you chose to come.

A/N: I love Vesper and really wanted to write for her. I hope you all enjoy this, I wrote it quite late last night so sorry for any mistakes.

Warning(s): rough kissing and social anxiety

It was a night unlike any other, tonight MI6 and the Treasury had put together some sort of gala type reception for a certain amount of their employees and it would seem I was one of the lucky few to be invited, the only thing is I didn't want to be here.

I wasn't a fan of social events and could barely stand being out of the house past seven o'clock but I hadn't come here for myself, I'd come here for her and she hadn't even shown up yet.

So I stood over in a back corner of the reception hall, that was decked out in people and all sorts of finery, in a floor length pink chiffon dress that was accompanied by a shawl of pink silk and gold details. This would never have been something I'd pick out for myself but it was stunning and I did truly love it.

I'd waited for her, she was supposed to be here a half hour ago and still she hadn't shown up, my only reason for being here not even here, how sad did that sound.

I'd began to get nervous being on my own, surrounded by so many unknown faces. I worried that everyone was judging me and talking about the sad little girl who was hiding in a corner because she'd been stood up.

Suddenly I was teenager again, no longer a woman who worked for MI6 but a sixteen year old, who's only reason for not going to her school leavers event was because she was never asked to go by someone.

It was stupid, I know but that's how it felt, I relied on her to be here, she was my girlfriend and the woman who held my heart and she was already now forty-five minutes late, with about four missed calls and two voicemails.

Those last fifteen minutes of the first hour quickly disappeared and I couldn't stand the idea of taking another glass of whatever it was they were serving tonight. Then the first hour ended and the hand that clasped my clutch was no longer following instructions from my head and was instead searching for my phone.

I dialled the number I could memorise in a heartbeat. One ring, then another, then another one and finally a fourth buzzing ring of the call came and I knew what was coming next. My prediction of course was correct as the call quickly went to that god forsaken voicemail that I'd already heard twice tonight.

"Hi Ves, It's me, I know I've already called but I wanted you to know that I've been here now for an hour," I began to say choking back a sob as I spoke, "I'm wearing the dress you picked out for me, it fits perfectly, but of course it does you chose it. Where are you Ves? you promised you'd be here, I've made sure to save you a dance, though I don't think it will matter. Please show up soon, I love you."

I ended the voice message their and even though I knew it was stupid, I felt my heart inside my chest and how it tightened and shattered a little when she hadn't picked up.

Where was she? I knew she could be late, of course I did, I'd been dating her for two and half years now but she'd never before been this late and it made all sorts of thoughts swirl around in my head, some of them frightened me and others just made me upset.

I quickly became aware of how the music in the room had grown much louder and suddenly I didn't want to be standing here anymore, so I left. I got myself out of that corner I had been standing in and walked of the large gala room and walked out into the reception and arrivals area.

I walked over to the closest wall and, facing away from the entrance, I tried to centre myself once again. Then I heard a voice, at first I thought my mind was playing tricks with me but then I heard it a second time and it was louder and a little bit closer.

"Y/n!" I heard the voice, calling my name, more distinctly now and I knew I'd recognise the soft lull of that voice absolutely anywhere.

In a rush I turned around and stood away from the wall and then I saw her, it was Vesper walking into the venue dressed like the Goddess I knew she was, in the most beautiful purple dress and then I knew I would love her forever.

"Y/n," She said my name again, her smile beaming at me as she came closer and now I could no longer wait for her to close the distance, so I decided to do it myself.

I ran up to her and Immediately threw my arms around her neck and pulled her into the tightest embrace I could muster and then my lips were upon her and without hesitation she kissed me back with just as much passion.

Our lips danced and our tongues battled for dominance, as Vesper’s arms snaked around my waist and brought me in closer into her by the hips and very quickly I knew we'd have to find a room before we were demanded to leave.

It seemed Vesper had had the same thought as very quickly, without barely breaking the kiss, she'd directed us into a room that I didn't care to inspect, all my previous upset and anger dissipated upon seeing her.

Very quickly I was pushing Vesper up against the nearest wall and loosening my arms from around her neck. Though my act of dominance was quickly changed, as Vesper swapped our positions and in a matter of seconds I was up against the wall, and her mouth was trailing kisses down my neck.

"Ves..." I tried to breathe out, "Your here," was all I was able to say that was coherent, as her kisses on my neck continued, though they quickly became softer.

"Of course I did," She spoke breathlessly pulling away, "I'm so sorry sweetheart, i wanted to be here sooner but I had some things to attend to." She didn't elaborate any further, only giving me a final gentle kiss on the lips before she looked up and around the space we were in.

I followed her line of site and saw that we were standing in a stairwell and when I looked up, I could see it went pretty far up. "Come let's go up," She spoke hurriedly, grabbing my hand carefully into her own and pulling us both up the stairs being careful of our dresses.

Soon we had done about five flights of stairs and then Vesper was opening up one of the doors and immediately I was hit by a gust of cold night air. She'd pulled us out onto the roof.

Walking out onto the roof Vesper whispered to me "I believe you saved me a dance," And soon we were dancing to the imaginary music of London city, upon one of its tallest hotels.

"I love you Y/n Y/l/n," Vesper whispered, her forehead against mine and her blue eyes focusing against my Y/e/c ones.

"And I love you, Vesper Lynd," And it seemed those were my final words as both of our lips soon met and we ended the evening with a soft and genuine kiss full of nothing but love.

[fantasies-fairytales-n-fics]

Code Blue Ch. 55 - Flirting With Disaster

Summary: Lee drives down a dark road. Jo searches for him. A nasty phone call triggers her anxiety. Craig is a hero, but Orlando is not impressed. A warning is given. Lee and Gordon scuffle once more. Donna puts her foot down.

*Chapter Warnings* Alcohol use, drinking and driving, language, angst, anxiety, mentions of drugs, physical altercation

Chapter characters: Lee, Josie, Emily, Craig, Orlando, Gordon, Donna

Stories Stories Stories Masterlist:

Salem, Massachusetts

March 22, 2022

It was now dark and Lee had been driving for hours, swaying back and forth in his Dodge Dart with the windows down and the music blaring, trying to wash it all away just like you said, but his version of that was sipping on his second pint of Fireball. He was now at the impaired level to where he didn't care if he wrapped his car around a tree, but he chuckled when he thought of how it would be much more ironic if he crashed into an oncoming train.

As he changed the radio station, he found himself screaming with vein popping rage at the top of his lungs when the song came on that he had texted lyrics to you of earlier that day.

I had all and then most of you, some and now none of you. Take me back to the night we met. I don't know what I'm supposed to do, haunted by the ghost of you. Take me back to the night we met.

Simultaneously, you had been doing the same thing, minus the booze but listening to the same radio station as you drove around, crying your eyes out to that song and looking for Lee after he had just left you standing in the cemetery at his father's grave. You had called him over and over but he had shut his phone off. You left repeated voicemails and went to every known place you could think of that he might be, but he wasn't there or anywhere. Lee was just gone boy gone.

Was it all worth it? Dragging the truth of his past out of him, especially on that day of all days? His father's one month of passing. None of that day was supposed to go the way it went and it suddenly went from bad to worse.

Your phone rang as you pulled up to your apartment, but it wasn't Lee. It was Emily, your good friend from Ireland who had extended her stay in Salem when Jason supposably died to be there for you, but in all of the chaos, you had forgotten all about her.

"Em?? Hey." you softly sniffled. "What's up?"

"I guess I could ask you the same thing." she scoffed in her subtle Irish accent. "Where have you been and why have you not told me about Megan?? I just found out from your mom who I called to find out where you were at."

"Oh Em, I am so sorry. So much has been happening and it's all just a mess."

"Right. Well...are you ever coming back to the ice skating lessons for the kids? I've been covering for you and I need a break. I want to go out with someone on the 25th to a party and I'd like to take that entire day to go shopping and stuff. Can you at least do it that day?"

The 25th...that was Lee's upcoming birthday which you had forgotten about too and now you felt like even more shit, if that were even possible. Of course, you and he were supposed to spend it together, but now, all you could hear was his cold voice reiterate through your mind...fuck forever.

"Hello? Josie...can you?"

"Oh...sorry, I umm, I can't Em. I just have so much going on."

"Yeah, I noticed. Well, I can't do it. I'm not missing out on my plans."

"Ok, well. Just cancel the class. There's plenty of time. It's no big deal."

"No big deal? What is wrong with you anymore? You love that class and the kids. It's like no one exists now except your precious Lee."

"Hey, don't do that. Don't talk about him like that."

"Whatever."

"Em I said I'm sorry."

"Of course. And that makes it all ok. I stayed here for you ya know? And I've seen you not even a handful of times in 2 months. Twice to be exact."

"I know and I swear, I'll make it up to you soon, just not right now. So umm...who's the mystery man you're going to this party with?"

"Oh so now you're interested in my life? Well, if you must know, it's Johnny."

"What? Are you mad?? Jesus Em. You KNOW who he is."

"Oh stop it. You're not my mother. I'm a grown ass woman and can do as I please. In fact, I've been seeing him awhile now, ever since he came to the ice arena that day."

"Well that's just great, so you're into drug pushing mob men now."

"Don't be a hypocritical bitch. You had your fun with him before too and let's not forget who Jason was and from what I've heard, your landlord is one too who you're quite cozy with."

"Wowww. They don't do or sell drugs Em! So now you're letting Johnny fucking Zacchara fill your head with bullshit about me I see. You've never acted like this. He's bad news and you know it and clearly, he's rubbing off on you."

"Get over yourself already. Jealous much?"

"WHAT?? Jealous of Johnny??? Em grow the fuck up. You KNOW I don't want him. If anyone's jealous, it's you because he still wants me and you know it and he's using you to stay in my orbit."

"Oh, that's right. I'm not good enough compared to you. Johnny could never truly like me for me right??"

"God, you sound just like Megan."

"Well clearly Megan had a point! Everybody wants Jo! Well you know what. I DON'T. Fuck off!" she shouted and hung up.

"Ahhhhhhh!!!!" you screeched as you squeezed your phone with two hands, picturing yourself strangling her.

As you made your way up the stairs of the complex, it slithered up on you like a python in the everglades, wrapping around your chest and throat and relentlessly constricting as it pulled you straight to the ground to devour you whole. Shaking, gasping, clutching your chest, you crawled towards Craig's door where his music could be heard thumping about. He was never going to hear you. You had no voice. Even if you made it to his apartment, you didn't have the strength to bang on the door or reach for the handle that you knew was locked. You frantically dumped your purse out and grabbed your phone but in your frenzy for air, you couldn't turn it on. You must have literally squeezed the life out of it like your anxiety was doing to you at that moment. It was time to focus and fight. Your ears concentrated on the muffled music, your hands focused on the feel of the carpet beneath you, your tongue could taste your chap stick but your nose, it was useless to search for smell. Your eyes then caught sight of the fire alarm that happened to be just above you. Reaching, stretching, grasping and clawing at the brick wall, your fingertips were merely inches below it. Time was running out. Everything was about to go black. In your desperation, you found one last boost of adrenaline to lunge upwards and pull the lever. Ear piercing decibels sounded through the halls and blinding overhead lights kicked on as you slid down the wall, and then...there was darkness.

"Jo! Jo, come on sweetheart, wake up!" a desperate voice echoed in a gargle, sounding as if it were underwater.

"Miss March, can you hear me? Open your eyes for me." another voice, unfamiliar, stern but calm and more clear triggered the flickering of your lids.

"That a girl, there you are." the voice continued and now you could make out a face.

It was an EMT. As you gasped and darted your eyes all around, you then realized you were in the back of an ambulance. You swiftly sat up, knocking the oxygen mask from your face to see the very frightened face of Craig gaping in at you from outside the open back doors. Behind him was your car and a firetruck there, red lights swirling about. You were still at the complex.

"C..Craig??" you fearfully stammered and began to sob.

The EMT quickly jumped back before he knocked senseless by Craig's catapulting entrance. As soon as he reached you, he pulled you right onto his arms, clutching you tighter than the snake attack had done.

"Jesus Jo. You...you weren't breathing. You scared me to death. Don't cry. Don't cry. I've got you." Craig huffed into your ear.

"What...what happened??" you squeaked through his beastly bear hug.

He leaned back and cradled your face in both hands, his baby blues glassy and wet as he began to ramble. "I...I heard the alarm and ran out to find you unconscious in the hall. I had to give you cpr Jo and then finally, you gasped the most beautiful, sweet breathtaking breath I had ever heard besides Blaise's when she was born, but you were still out of it and then the EMS got here and I informed them of what I knew, about your anxiety and all and..."

"Oh my god...I...I remember now...I...it just hit me and I...I couldn't get to you...I pulled the alarm..."

Craig stroked your cheek and became the most open and vulnerable that you had ever seen him. "Thank the mighty lord above that you did or you'd be...Jo...I don't know what I would have done if I had lost you."

"You...you saved me? Craig...I...I don't know what to say."

"You can call him a hero Ma'am." the EMT intruded. "His quick thinking and actions kept you alive until we could treat you. With that said, we really should take you to the hospital now."

Panic crept up on you again and you began to ramble and beg. "N...NO. I am fine. I feel fine. I'm used to these attacks and I have meds for it...and my mom...she don't need this. No Craig...no, tell him I'm fine and that you'll be with me...right?? You'll stay with me...won't you?? Please don't make me go...PLEASE!"

"Jo I...I can't make you do anything and I won't...but...I'm worried about you. I know you know your body and all, but I also know you do not take your meds..."

"Craig...I swear to you....I am alright. I would never lie to you....not again."

"Not even to save your ass from going to the hospital?" he softly grinned as he stroked your hair. "And to be clear, you never lied to me. At least I don't see it that way."

"No...I won't lie even for that. I just don't want to go when I know I'm alright now thanks to you....and I don't want to face Orlando or Dave right now either. Can we please just go inside."

"I'll tell you what. Let's compromise. Please, for me, go to the hospital just to get checked out and then if all is good, I promise, I will bring you right back here. You'll be in the ER so I doubt your mom will see you and if you see your doctor friends, then you can ask them not to tell her. I will stay right by your side Jo. Please, it will make my heavy heart feel so much better."

His damn smile had some way with you. "Fine. I'll go but not in the ambulance. You have to take me."

"Deal."

You were quiet the entire car ride, staring out into the darkness while feeling Craig's eyes glancing upon you from time to time, but he also remained quiet. Knowing the man you had come to know, you knew he was trying to be respectful and let you rest. When you were ready to talk to him about things, you would. You knew though that you would be talking soon enough...to Orlando because he was the general physician of the ER and sure enough, his car was there when you arrived and he was at the nurses station when you walked in.

Orlando's eyes widened with fright and he sped right to you, offering a hand of support under you elbow and frowning as he gazed at your forehead.

"Josie? What happened?? You're limping and you have what looks like rug burn on your head."

"I...do? I guess I should have looked in the mirror. It's no big deal Landy. I just had a..."

Orlando's chocolate eyes became black as licorice as they darted over to Craig with a death glare. "What did you do to her!" he snarled and inserted himself between you and the man he knew was a mobster.

"Whoaaa down Fido." Craig commanded in a most calm and collected manner. It was not easy to intimidate him from all that you had seen.

"Landy, no. He didn't do anything to me. If anything, he saved my life."

"What??" Orlando gasped as his concerned eyes bolted back to you.

"I...I had a panic attack. A bad one and I passed out. I must have hit my knee when I fell and my head too. Craig found me and he helped me. I wasn't breathing, so....that's why I'm here. He really wanted me to come be checked out."

Feeling rather foolish, the good doctor apologized, but you still saw it in his eyes that he did not trust Craig, nor like him at all. "My apologies. I shouldn't have made presumptions. Thank you for what you did."

Craig's simple reply carried a hint of cockiness in his tone that you immediately recognized. He had been offended and you hoped he would let it go, but... there was also the fact Landy was Ethan's brother and you knew that didn't sit well with Craig either, even if Orlando was nothing like Ethan. "No worries Dr. Bloom."

"Alright, let's get you in a cubicle. Looks like I'll be your doctor again." Landy grinned and led you away.

"Wait!" you snapped and halted to look at Craig. "He comes too. I want him there."

The two men locked eyes. Craig's were smug and satisfied. Landy's were perplexed and wary.

Orlando was stern in his stance as a physician and as your friend. "He may come in AFTER we get you situated and assessed."

Your eyes saddened as you moved them to Craig's. "It's alright sweetheart. I'll be right outside this door." He assured and then his eyes went straight back to Orlando's with warning. "I'm not going anywhere."

Landy angrily whipped the curtain shut behind the two of you. "Sweetheart??" he groaned. "I do not like that guy. Since when are you so friendly with him??"

"Landy. Let's not talk about Craig right now...or ever for that matter. He cares about me, that's all and don't forget, I'm breathing because of him. Now...I need you to PLEASE not tell my mom about this..or Dave or...well, it don't matter."

"Lee? Did you ever find him after you called me earlier?"

"No and we're not talking about him either got it?? Can we just get this over with and this day already??" you snapped as you sat down on the bed.

Orlando half smiled and his eyes fell after your harshness towards him.

"Shit. Damn it Landy...I am so sorry." you reeled and took his hand. "I didn't mean to snap at you. I'm just so exhausted, physically AND mentally."

His fingers caressed over yours as the smitten doc tried to hide how good it felt to touch you. "It's alright. I know you're stressed and how scary panic attacks are. They take a lot out of you. And my lips are sealed. I can't talk about my patients anyways remember? Let me check all your vitals, do some routine blood work and then since you did fall and have a wound on your head, I'd like to send you down for a CT to rule out a concussion and get an x-ray on that knee as well."

"Ughhhhh....ok." you moaned.

Landy did all his preliminary testing, then gave you a gown to put on and left and sure enough, Craig was standing right there when he walked out.

Orlando stopped with a hard sigh and slammed his pen down on his clipboard. "Stay put. She's dressing." he scoffed and walked away.

Craig arrogantly followed. "You know." he softly whispered near Orlando's ear as he came up behind him while he was writing. "I don't like you much either."

Orlando swayed around with a glare. "You were eavesdropping??"

Craig chuckled. "Curtains are paper thin, practically useless for sound barrier. I'm pretty sure you knew that when you decided to complain about me to Jo, whom...by the way," he raved. "She shut you down real quick didn't she? You see, it's really simple Doc. She cares for me and I care for her. Get over it."

"I'm sure her boyfriend won't...get over it. Did you forget about him while you're staking some wolfy claim on her?"

"No. But it seems he's forgotten about her. I'm pretty certain that he is one of or possibly even the main reason she had that attack tonight. From the things she's confided in me, I would bet my life on it." Craig then looked around with gloating eyes. "Where is the good Dr. Pace anyways??"

"Don't you have a daughter to look for or something?" Orlando irrationally retorted with instant regret.

Craig stepped forward, leaving only a foot's length between the two 5'11 men as his eyes and tone hardened. "You definitely have that Bloom blood and mouth don't you? I'd watch what you say to me, especially about my daughter. Ethan didn't watch what he said to me and he didn't enjoy the consequences of that. I will find that little bastard, mark my words and I will get my daughter back and that ball-less brother of yours will meet his judgment day right here on earth just as others have for messing with me and those I love. Even that cop brother of yours walks a thin line with me. Those who like flirting with disaster get eaten by the so called wolves you speak of, or in my world as they put it, go swimming with the fishes. Have I made myself clear Landy?"

"Crystal." he snapped and daringly pushed past Craig's shoulder to go back to you.

"Knock knock" he called out in a pretend pleasant voice before opening the curtain.

"I'm good Landy."

Orlando brought in a wheelchair. "Hop in."

You giggled. "I'm so doped up right now on what you gave me that I can barely move."

"Here. I'll help."

After he wheeled you out, Craig came right to you and dropped to his knees to hold your hand.

You smiled and took his hand as your words slightly slurred. "They gave me drugs."

"I can tell." he chuckled. " So you're feeling ok then? No pain?"

"Oh I am feeling just fine." you giggled. "You're so sweet Craigy. I'm glad you're here with me. You make me feel better."

Craig squeezed your hand and smiled, giving a swift, smug glance up at Orlando. "I'll tell you a little secret. You make me feel better too Jo."

"Well it's not a secret anymore silly. Landy's standing right here. Oh gosh, I just love your smile Craig. It's so pearly white."

He released a hearty laugh. "Just how much drugs did they give you?"

"It's time to go Josie." Orlando interrupted.

"Ok but...Craigy...will you follow us down and wait for me?"

"Anything for you.... sweetheart."

Orlando rolled his eyes and wheeled you off with Craig on his heels. Once you were all done, you were taken back to your room to wait on the results and to rest and during that time, Craig stayed at your side and listened to you blabber about your burdens under the influence of your meds.

Finally, you were cleared. No concussion, no concerning damage to your knee, just bruised, and BP and oxygen normal so you were sent on your way. By the time Craig got you back to the complex, you were out for the count with your head on his shoulder. Unable to wake you, he carried you up to your apartment and placed you in your bed, covering you up, then he opened a bottle of your wine and sat on the couch drinking until he too fell asleep.

Meanwhile, Lee had miraculously made his way in one piece to Gordon's house in Boston, but he was definitely broken inside. Once he forced entry into the garage, he began trashing all the contents of a storage unit in search of something important to him.

"Come on... Where is it??!!" he growled as he threw boxes and knocked over shelves.

Gordon was still up and heard all the commotion and when he got to the garage, he found his brother panting in a confused state as he sat on a toppled box.

"Lee! What are you doing???"

"Where is it?" Lee softly snarled through his exhausted pants.

"Where is what?? Why did you trash my things??? and...how the fuck did you get in here??? Are you drunk???? You drove here this way???"

"Spare me the bogus brotherly concern. Where...are...my...drugs??!!" Lee fiercely chanted.

"You're kidding right?? We, meaning you AND me, used that stash years ago. Jesus Lee, how much have you had to drink or...are you high??"

"I certainly wish I was! That was the point of coming here!"

"Well you waisted a trip. You know I don't keep that shit around with Donna here."

"Oh come on Gordo! You probably snort that shit from her ass crack while she's sucking it off your cock."

Gordon's eyes widened and then he raised his brow. "Yeah, I...I've probably done that a time or two...so??!!"

"Come on man...you can't tell me you don't have anything at all...somewhere!! A little white lightning...that's all I need."

"Well...even if I did, I certainly wouldn't give it to you!"

"Why?? Because I'm drunk??"

"Nooo? Because you're a dick!!"

Lee chuckled sarcastically. "Oh, I'M a dick?? Who's the one trying to take MY farm from me??? and who's the one who didn't show up today at dad's grave???"

"DAD'S FARM! and we're both his sons!! You got him to sign it over to you under false pretenses and you'll never convince me otherwise. He wasn't in his right mind! And...and...who says I had to go to dad's grave with YOU??? I can go by myself!!"

"We're both his sons, you got that right, but YOU are NOT my brother!! You never had one ounce of interest in that farm. You HATED it there!! Look at you...you're a big city guy!! You only want it to spite me because dad left it to me...legitimately!! He didn't want you to have it!!!"

"Whatever. I'm not doing this with you. You're fucking wasted. Look, I don't know what's going on with you, but you're clearly on some downward spiral and I'm not contributing to it. Give me your keys. You can go sleep it off on the couch and then get the fuck out tomorrow."

"Fuck you. I'm leaving."

Lee pushed past him and Gordon grabbed his arm. "No, you're not! Give...me...your...keys or I'm calling the cops and telling them you're drunk and driving!!"

Lee jerked his arm away and shoved Gordon against the wall. "I will rearrange your fugly ass face if you so much as touch your phone."

"Fine...but you're not driving."

Gordon gloated as he held up Lee's keys he had taken out of his jacket and dangled them from his fingers, then ran like hell up the stairs to the house with Lee stumbling up the steps behind him.

"Give them back!!"

"NO!" Gordon yelled as Lee chased him around the kitchen table. "Call a cab if you want to leave!!"

Lee hopped on the table and crawled over it, then dragged Gordon to the ground and pinned him down, aggressively twisting his nipples.

"STOPPP IT MAN!!!"

"If you want me to stop..." he huffed through pursed lips, "then just give me the keys!"

"Get off of him!! ALL I gotta do is dial three numbers Lee!!" Donna shouted from behind, holding her cell in hand.

Lee stood up, defeated but kept a smug expression as he glared at her. "Well if it ain't ass crack Donna."

"Get out of here Lee. Now." she barked, ready to dial 911.

"Fine...fine...fine. Have it your way." he snidely complied, then looked at Gordon who still laid upon the floor, terrified. "Your dope probably smells like shit anyways. I'll be back for my keys tomorrow."

Lee took out his phone and called a cab as he staggered his way out the door. When he reached his car, he leaned upon it and lost his footing. Sliding down hard on his ass, he stayed there and sobbed with his head in his hands until the taxi arrived and took him home.

@redeemer46

[ashcal99]

Certain Things : Leah Clearwater IV

Chapter Four

"Something about you, It's like an addiction, Hit me with your best shot honey, I've got no reason to doubt you, 'Cause certain things hurt, And you're my only virtue"

Summary: Conner Swan moves to Forks Washington in hopes to help his sister Bella through her breakup with Edward. In hopes to find happiness again. He finds much more.

Warnings: Eventual smut (18+ only), mentions of death, depression, loss, antidepressants, general angst, slow burn, mentions of suicide

Words: 4.3k

A/N: Comment if I missed any warning or anything plz thnx.

Soundtrack

Previous Chapter

Series Masterlist

——————

March 4th, 2006

It had been weeks since Jacob had gotten sick, and yet, Bella had heard no word from the boy. As far as she knew, he had come down with mono, or so Billy had told her. Day after day she called, but it was always Billy who had answered, claiming the teen was still too sick to come to the phone. Eventually, even Billy had stopped picking up, and soon, the voicemail box had been filled. Bella had felt helpless. Fearing that she had lost the one true friend she had. The pain came back with a vengeance. Now that Jake had left, the hole in her heart seemed to grow twice the size. 

Conner saw the pain return, as hard as she had tried to hide it, and he was furious. It was clear that the Quileutes had been using the sickness as an excuse to avoid the girl, that much was obvious, as the silence from the teen had gone on far too long. He was just unsure as to why. Frankly, he didn’t exactly care what the excuse was. All he saw was the progress Bella was making in healing going to waste. 

It was a Saturday, his day off, when Bella finally decided to confront the boy. Conner had made plans to go fishing with his father and Harry Clearwater, but he suddenly regretted making the plans. He turned to Bella. “Look, I don’t have to go fishing today.” He started. 

Bella waved a hand dismissively. “Yeah, you do. What are you talking about?” She asked. “Just be careful.” She said directing the words to her father and brother.

“We always are.” Charlie spoke up, giving the girl a reassuring smile.

Harry spoke up. “Those bears won’t get the drop on me, Bella.” He joked smirking. “My kung foo is strong.” He added teasingly, earning a small chuckle from the other two men. 

Conner nudged his shoulder. “Yeah, right. Your reflexes are so lightning fast.” He said laughing. 

Harry scoffed. “I have no idea what you mean, I’m practically a chetah.” He smiled proudly as the three walked out the front door, to Harry’s truck. Conner leaned down, picking up a pebble on the driveway, quickly chucking it in the man’s direction. The tiny rock hit the man right in the middle of his forehead, his eyes going wide. Charlie and Conner doubled over with laughter, seeing the shocked look on Harry’s face. 

The tree climbed into the truck, setting their fishing gear in the bed. Conner sat silently in the back seat as the two other man held light conversation, staring out the window as the trees blurred past. Charlie had been talking about Jake, complaining of the teens absence. “I just don’t understand what happened. It’s been over a month now.” Charlie said exasperatedly. 

“I wouldn’t worry about it, Charlie. I’m sure he’ll come around eventually.” Henry said dismissively. 

Charlie sighed. “I hope so.” He said, staying silent for a moment. “Anyway, how are Leah and Seth doing? How’s high school going for him?” He asked changing the subject. 

“He’s doing great. Straight A’s.” He said proudly. “Leah’s okay, still keeping to herself mostly.” He said, voice dropping slightly. “She’s still pretty broken up over Sam. I think she’s mainly angry at this point.” He continued. 

Conner’s eyebrows furrowed, not sure what the man meant. “I didn’t know you had a daughter.” He interjected. He hadn’t spent a lot of time with the man, usually spending the days he came over working or busying himself with yard word to distract himself. He had found out about Harry’s son, having overhead a previous conversation, but a daughter was news to him. He found himself uncharacteristically intrigued by the topic. 

Harry glanced towards the man in the rearview mirror of the truck. “Yeah, Leah. She’s about your age I’d say. Doesn’t get out much besides work, I’m sure you haven’t met before.” He said. 

Conner quirked an eyebrow. He hadn’t known any of Charlie’s friends had any kids closer in age to him, granted he didn’t get out much himself. The only friends he had was Bella and Jake, and clearly the latter wasn’t going too well. Conner sighed, dropping the subject and turning back to gaze out the truck’s window.

——————

March 11th, 2006

Another week had passed since the fishing trip, not much having changed on the Bella and Jacob front. She had come home that night, upset from whatever Jake had said to her. She claimed to not want to take about it, but she was clearly upset from whatever had happened. 

It was a rare sunny morning when Bella decided to go back to the reservation to see the boy. Conner had just finished off drying the pan he had used to cook breakfast when she came running down the stairs in a rush. He whipped his head in her direction, shocked to see her with such energy. She had spent the majority of the past week moping around, so he had wondered what had changed. He stepped out from the kitchen, blocking her path. “Where are you going?” He questioned, one eyebrow raised in curiosity. 

She huffed. “I have to go talk to Jake.” She rushed out, clearly in a hurry for whatever reason. 

Conner’s face dropped, the crease between his brows deepening. “Okay then, I’m coming too.” He stated determinedly.

Bella begun to panic. There was no way she was getting her brother involved in this whole mess. She had finally remembered about the Quileute legends and she wasn’t about to drag Conner into it too, knowing it would be dangerous. “No.” She answered bluntly.

Conner huffed in annoyance. “Bella I’m not going to let you go over there alone again. Last time you came back in tears.” He reasoned. “I’ll stay in my truck, but at least let me drive you.” He concluded.

Bella sighed in defeat. “Fine.” She agreed, in too much of a rush to argue with the man. 

The scenery whipped past the truck as Conner sped down the winding road. Bella had already made it clear that she was in a rush, so Conner drove swiftly thought the turns, trying to get the to house quickly. His tires slid slightly on the gravel road as his truck came to a halt in front of the Black residence. He turned to the girl. “I’m right here if you need me, okay?” He reassured. Bella nodded, quickly swinging the door open and dropping her feet to the ground. Conner sat there, watching as she pushed herself past Billy and into the house. 

He had started to grow antsy, not having a view of his sister when his attention dragged to the girl storming from the house towards a group of shirtless guys. Okay? It definitely wasn’t that warm, he thought. He gripped the door, throwing it open as he watched his sister get in one’s face, yelling angrily about something. He slammed the door, rushing towards his sister. The tanned male started shaking violently, his entire body vibrating. 

“Bella!” Jake yelled, bursting through the back door of the house. He sprinted towards the girl, his body starting to shake as well. 

“Run!” Bella screamed, turning and sprinting towards the boy. “Jake, run!” She repeated. Conner stopped in his tracks, jaw going slack as he watched the scene play out in front of him.  

A growl ripped through Jacobs throat. In a burst of fur and and shreds of clothing, the two shaking figures were replaced with gigantic menacing wolves. The two snapped their jaws at each other bearing their teeth threateningly. Conner watched in awe not knowing how to react.

WHAT THE FUCK

The two wolves tackled each other, chasing themselves out of the clearing. The two siblings stood there for a moment, mouths agape. So much for keeping Conner out of it. 

Conner stepped forwards to the other men, sucking in a deep breath. "So are you guys gonna turn into giant dogs too, or should I wait for another time?” He asked unease gripping his throat. 

——————

Conner stepped slowly through the narrow doorway of the house. He hadn’t received much of an explanation on the way to Sam and Emily’s, the others claiming he would get his answers soon. “Can someone please explain to me why I just watched a boy that I've known his whole life turn into a very large dog?” Conner asked, growing impatient with the silence.

Jared smirked to the man. “It’s kind of a long story.” He explained.

Conner huffed impatiently. “I’ve got time.” He reasoned. He needed an explanation before he went insane. It's not everyday that you witness a close friend randomly morph into an animal.

The woman in the kitchen turned, spotting the to two siblings. “Who’s this?” She asked, sending the two a small smile. Conner glanced over to the woman, eyes pausing on the long jagged scars running down her face. This must be Emily, he decided, quickly diverting his gaze, not wanting to seem rude from staring. 

“Bella and Conner Swan.” Jared explained.

A smirk grew on Emily’s face. “So, you’re the vampire girl.” She said. Conner’s head shot to his sister. First wolves and now Vampires? What’s next? Big Foot?

Conner turned to his sister, gritting his teeth. “Vampires, Bella? You have a lot of explaining to do.” He seethed, glaring at the girl.

Bella grimaced, turning to answer Emily. “So you’re the wolf girl.” She said, ignoring her brother. She would clearly have to spend time later explaining things to the man, but for now, she focused on getting some answers of her own. 

“Guess so.” Emily smirked. “Well, I’m engaged to one.” She clarified, setting a heaping plate of muffins on the table. Hands swarmed the plate, grabbing muffin after muffin. “Save some for your brothers.” She chastised the boys. “And guests first. Muffin?” She added, offering the plate to the two siblings.

Conner reached forwards, snagging one of the warm pastries. “Sure, thanks.” He muttered softly. 

“So, that explanation you wanted.” Embry started, mouth full of muffin. “We’re descendants of wolves.” He stated simply, as if that explained everything. Conner supposed that was the best he was going to get, coming to to the conclusion that he should just except the fact that he didn’t live in the world he thought he had. There was clearly a lot that he had been oblivious to previously, and he planned to get some more answers out of Bella later. 

He sighed, pulling a chair out from the table, giving up, as he slouched over, stuffing the muffin into his mouth. His eyes widened, a soft groan falling from his lips. “Compliments to the chef.” He said, eyeing the muffin. 

“She is pretty amazing isn’t she?” A voice coming from behind said. A large muscled man made his way towards the woman, taking her scared face in his hands, planting a kiss to her lips. This must be sam, Conner concluded. He turned his focus to the muffin, feeling like he was intruding on something he shouldn’t be seeing. 

——————

The siblings returned home a few hours later. Luckily, their father was still out, having left to go hunting again with Harry. Slamming the front door behind him, he followed his sister, deciding now was as good as any to talk things through. 

Bella looked to the man apprehensively. “Conner… I can explain.” She said hesitantly. 

Conner scoffed. “How could you lie to me like that?” He asked, anger filling his voice. 

Bella stared, eyes wide. It had been a long time since she had seem him so angry, him usually being so timid. “Technically,” She started hesitantly, “I didn’t lie, I just didn’t tell you everything.” She explained. 

Suddenly it him. “Is that why?” He asked, earning a confused look from the girl. “Is he why you stopped answering my calls?” He clarified. His heart ached in protest, not sure if he wanted to hear the truth.

“I-I knew I would end up letting it slip on accident, and I couldn’t chance you being put in danger.” She said, trying to justify her actions. 

Conner pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to push back the building tears. “Bella, have you ever stopped to think about the danger this put you in?” He asked. 

Bella looked down to the floor. “That’s not the same.” She muttered in defense.

Conner scoffed. “Not the same? You know what, you’re right. It’s worse. Bella, for fuck's sake, he's killed people. The whole family has.” He yelled, throwing his hands in the air. His voice raised in volume, quickly losing his temper with the teen. All the years he had spent trying to protect her, meanwhile there she was willingly endangering her own life.

Bella’s forehead creased in anger. ”He's not like that anymore, they don't feed on humans.” She tried to defend.

The man looked at his sister in disgust. “Do you even hear yourself?” He asked.

“Anymore, Bella. He’s killed before, and it’s clear that you know that. You're trying to justify killing. He's a murderer, Bells.” He said bluntly, glaring at the girl. 

“Don't talk about him like that.” She said shortly.

Conner felt like he had been stabbed in the heart. “Does your life really mean that little to you?” He asked sadly. “Are the people that love you that expendable to you?” Bella stood for a moment, mouth open, looking for an answer that she knew she couldn’t find.

"Con-" He flinched at the nickname. Nicknames were for close relationships, not strangers, and right now he didn’t recognize the girl standing in front of him. "I'm sorry." She said.

Conner felt the tears begin to spill from his eyes. "Bella, I lost the love of my life. You know what that kind of loss feels like, but she didn't just leave me like Edward left you. She died. Died with my child. A child I didn't even know about until she was gone." He paused, his voice cracking. "And on top of all of this, the one person.” He sucked in a breath “The one person I thought I could count on left me too. Made me feel like I was the burden” He cried out, tears flowing freely down his cheeks. 

"Conner, I'm sorry, I-" Bella started.

"No." Conner interrupted. "Sorry isn't good enough anymore. I thought our relationship meant more than that to you, but obviously it doesn't mean shit." He ended, turning, walking out the door, and slamming it behind him.

——————

March 18th, 2006

A week had passed since Conner had found out the truth. A week of awkward silence and cold shoulders. Charlie could tell something had happened between the two, but wasn’t sure how to approach the subject. Conner had been working non-stop trying to avoid the teen, having only been home to sleep as of late. If he wasn’t working, he was over in la push, having been spending more time will Billy. After everything that had happened, he felt like the man was the only person who would understand even a fraction of what he was going through, even if most of what they did was watch sports games together. If anything, it was a good distraction.

He had just finished a shift at the diner when he received the call. Looking down at the illuminated screen, he read Jacob’s name. Clicking to answer the call,  he brought the phone to his ear.“Hey man, what’s up” He asked casually. 

“Bella just almost died.” The teen answered bluntly, causing Conner to stop in his tracks. 

His heartbeat pounded in his ears. “W-what?” He stuttered out, blinking rapidly.

Jacob took a deep breath. “She thought it was a great idea to try out cliff diving today.” Conner heard Bella saying something about it being not that big of a deal in the background. Of course. The girl had a death wish.

Conner sucked in a breath “Jesus.” He said.

“She's okay. We're heading back your place now.” Jake reassured. 

Conner let out a heavy sigh. “I'll be there in ten.” He stated, hanging up the phone. Leave it to Bella. He climbed into his truck and hurriedly pulled out of the parking lot. He tried his best not to get a speeding ticket on the way home, knowing that would be an awkward conversation to have with his father.

No matter how mad he was at Bella, he still loved her, and the fact that she had almost died just in the last hour made him uneasy. He would've never forgiven himself if he had lost her. The last conversation they had, having ended with the both of them screaming at each other.

The man blew out a breath relief as a pulled up to the house, spotting his sister’s truck in the driveway. His eyebrows furrowed in confusion as he noticed the other car parked horizontally on the side of the road. He wasn’t too familiar with cars, but he knew this one looked expensive. He didn't know anybody that would've even had the money to rent a car like that.

Conner approached the front door hesitantly. Twisting the knob, he found it to be already unlocked. He stepped in slowly.”Hello?” He greeted cautiously, turning the corner to the living room. Jacob stood glaring at Bella who was wrapped in two pale arms. Conner looked up to the pale face of the girl, chills running up his spine. Vampire. He wasn’t sure how he knew, but he did. There was just something about the girl. She was unnaturally perfect, just like he remembered Edward to be. 

The short pixie-like girl glanced up. “Oh, hi. You must be Conner.” She greeted. “I'm Alice Cullen.” Conner's back tensed. So he was correct.

“I had a vision of you.” Alice said, turning her attention back to Bella. “You jumped off a cliff. Why in the hell would you try and kill yourself?” She asked angrily.

“I didn't try to kill myself. I was cliff diving. Recreationally. It was fun.” Bella reassured. 

“I have never met anyone more prone to life threatening idiocy.” Alice huffed out in annoyance. 

Conner scoffed. “I wholeheartedly agree.” He said irritatedly.

Bella started again. “Did you- did you tell him?” Edward, he assumed.

“No. He only calls once every few months. He said he wants to be alone…and what is the god awful wet dog smell?” She asked, turning up her nose from the stench.

Conner crossed his arms, watching the two amusedly. “That's probably me, or Jacob.” Bella said bashfully.

Alice seemed confused. “Jacob who?” She asked.

“Yeah, Jake's a giant dog.” Conner teased. 

Bella added awkwardly. “Jacob's kind of a werewolf.”

“Bella!” Alice shouted. “Werewolves are not good company to keep!”

“Hey! Speak for yourself!” Jacob started.

Conner stepped up. “I'm gonna have to agree with him on that one.”

He suddenly noticed the absence of his father. He furrowed his brow, knowing the man had the day off and as far as he was aware, hadn’t made any plans for this night. “Where's Charlie?” He asked.

Jacob's face fell, staying silent for a moment. “Harry Clearwater had a heart attack.” He said finally.

“Oh my god. Is he okay?” He asked panicked. Jacob hung his head, shaking it ‘no’. He had just seen the man. It didn’t seem real. Conner’s heart sunk. Jesus, his poor kids.

“His daughter phased in front of him and I guess his heart couldn’t take the shock. We’ve never had a female in the pack before. We didn’t even know it was possible.” He said solemnly. Conner’s face scrunched up, poor Leah. That was horrible. 

He was soon ripped from his thoughts as Bella yelled. “Stop!” Alice and Jake glared darkly at each other. If looks could kill, they'd both be six feet under. Assuming the vampires could die, this he wasn’t completely sure of.

Alice let out a sigh, rolling her amber eyes. “I will give you one minute.” She stated pointing a thin finger at the girl.

“You're not going anywhere, you're gonna come back , right?” Bella asked panicked. She wouldn't let Alice leave her. Not again. Not after so long waiting so long to see the vampire again.

A smirk found its way to the Cullen’s face. “As soon as you put the dog out.” She teased. Her gaze then flickered over to the older sibling, signaling to leave the two alone for some privacy.

Conner huffed, following the immortal girl out towards the back yard. He stepped into the cool air, unease settling in his stomach. ”So you're Conner. It's nice to finally meet you. I've heard a lot about you." She said a large smile gracing her delicate features. She looked kind enough, but still, something stirred in Conner’s chest, putting him on edge.

He looked towards the girl, thoughts whirling. ”Um-yeah, and you're Alice. Edward's sister?" He asked, looking for clarification. 

Alice grinned, showing her bright white teeth. ”That’s me. It's great to finally meet you. I've seen that we're going to get along great." She said grinning widely. A little weirded out, Conner blew the comment off. She'd seen? What is that supposed to mean?

Conner stared blankly for a moment. ”Yeah... Why is it that you're just now coming back to see Bella? You know, she's had a really shitty time getting over you and your family. Why pop back up now that she’s finally getting better?” He asked defensively. She wasn’t gong to get off easy by just being polite. Not after everything Bella had been put through.

Alice frowned. ”I needed to see if she was okay. I worry about her..." She faded off, her face becoming blank and eyes glossing over. The air between the two went silent as she as her attention drifted off elsewhere.

Conner quirked an eyebrow, waving a hand in front of her face, looking for some type of reaction ”Um, hello? Are you okay?" Conner asked unsure, attempting to regain her attention.

Alice's eyes widened to an almost comical size as she breathed out a gasp of air. "Oh god." She muttered turning quickly and rushing back into the house at an inhuman speed. Conner blinked rapidly, trying to decide if he had just hallucinated the whole interaction. The wolves hadn’t been kidding when they said vampires were fast, in fact he now realized that was definitely a major understatement. 

After coming to his senses, Conner turned on his heal, rushing back into the warmth of the house. As he crossed the threshold of the kitchen, Bella coming into view. Her face was white, as she looked like she had just seen a ghost. Her face quickly morphed into utter rage as she turned on Jacob, beginning to yell at the boy.

"Bella, it's Edward." Alice interrupted, panic filling her voice. "He thinks you are dead." Bella gaped at the girl. "Rosalie told him why I came here." Conner’s mind whirled as he tried to process this information. 

Bella turned to Jacob utterly furious. "Why would you- why didn't you let me speak to him?” She asked angrily.

"He didn't ask for you." Jacob stated stubbornly.

”Bella." Alice interjected hurriedly, trying to gain her full attention. "He's going to the Volturi." Conner of course had no idea what this meant, but still, the word set an ire chill in the air. Shivers ran down his spine as the word invoked a visceral reaction from the man. "He wants to die too." Alice finished. 

Bella sucked in a breath, eyes widening. ”We have to- we have to go." She stuttered out.

Conner’s heart dropped, putting a hand up to stop the teen. ”Hold on. Where are you going?" Conner interjected incredulously. "You're not going to just get up and leave again." He recalled the year previous when Bella had left Forks in a rush only to end up in the hospital a day later. The pain she had put Charlie through.

"He left you Bella, remember? He didn't want you anymore." Jacob pleaded with the girl.

Bella let out a frustrated grunt. "I'm not going to let him kill himself out of guilt." She said determinedly. She glared at the two males. She knew all they wanted to do was protect her, but she’d be damned if she let Edward die while she stood by and did nothing. 

Conner ran his fingers through his hair, trying to calm his building nervousness. Wherever it was that Bella was planning on going, he knew would be unsafe. Anxiety gripped his lungs as he began to struggle to breath. “Bella you can’t leave again.” He said, eyes pleading with his sister. “Charlie needs you right now.” He tried reasoning.

He looked deep into the girl’s eyes, instantly knowing that it was no use. Whatever grip this family had on the girl was too strong. In truth, he should have known this from the start, but he had tried to hope. Hope that she had moved on from Edward enough to value her own life, but he should have known. That was where her loyalties lied. Not with the family that loved and supported her throughout her darkest times, but with the boy that had broken her heart.

Conner nodded his head slowly, seeing there was no use in trying to convince her to stay. He turned his face from the girl, pain etched across his features. The fact was, family wasn’t a priority for her anymore. It hadn’t been since she had met Edward. His shoulders sagged in defeat, the sting of betrayal sinking in. And the she was gone, without even a second glance. 

He planted himself on the couch, taking his head in his hands. It was suddenly way too silent in the house, and his thoughts began to overwhelm him. 

What in the world was he going to tell Charlie?

Next Chapter

[petite-ursus]

As of yesterday I've now received a billing statement from the therapist (?) my ex is seeing, twice. Which. Hey. Love that she's going to therapy (or at least owes a therapist money.) But. Uhm. There is literally zero reason I should be receiving that. Considering when she (allegedly) started going to therapy was after she already was moving out and had a new address... Last year. And I didn't get the first statement until a few months into this year.

And I don't know where the error has come in, or if it's intentional or not, but if it's not it could be important information that is just getting lost. And I don't like her but. Hey. She's getting help. Or. You know, at least faking it again and even then SOME of that learning has to stick. So. I called and left a message at their office to say, basically, "hey, you're client doesn't live here and it's inappropriate for me to receive these. Desist."

It was a very firm professional voicemail... And then I had the thought I should specify the doctor but then I realized I didn't know the doctor and as that verbal kerfuffle was happening I accidentally bumped Meisha as I was ending the call so there's also like back and forth of that and a "Oh... oops" and a giggle, so I... whatever.

Weird few weeks. A LOT of fun things, and a few strange things. I need to pull my actual journal out and just. Log. It has been a solid month at least since I've written in it. And there is so much.

[batdude-s]

So I've been interviewing for a job with Kaiser right, I did my 2 interviews, she emailed me last week saying she wanted to call me again. So I responded within an hour saying I'm available between 10-1 on Monday and Tuesday. I never heard back from her, so I just assumed it wasn’t happening and scheduled other job interviews during that time, cuz I mean I’m a busy busy girl lol

Today while I was in a different interview she called me twice, left two voicemails, and then sent me 2 emails — being like “I need to talk to you!” And I missed the calls because she never confirmed she was going to call me lol

I actually feel kind of harassed, wtf lady leave me alone

I don’t want any job that bad!

To add insult to injury, this job also only pays $43k so I just sent an email telling her I’m no longer interested in the position lol

I can’t work for people like this, I have too many boundaries when it comes to professional communication, and I feel like my time is disrespected with these weird entitled antics , also I am worth way more than $43k a year

[mscrxft]

Miranda flinched at his words, the tone and aggression stirring her stomach. She wasn't quite sure what she'd been expecting from him, in fact she wasn't really thinking straight. She felt sick, and with her filter gone, she found herself rambling away in a stream of consciousness.

"I feel sick," she gulped, still pacing. "I don't want drugs from Viktor. I just want..I want to see him. You don't understand it. You can't understand." Then, to her surprise, her voice softened. "There's some ice in the freezer. You should use that..."

She stared at her phone in disbelief. She hadn't thought it would be this easy. With trembling hands, she reached for it and tapped in her pass code. To her dismay, there were no new messages. Nobody seemed to care about her. Not Cecilia, not Cassie and not Viktor.

Still she pushed on. With urgency, she found Viktor's name in the contacts and pressed call. She let in ring for several seconds before panicking and hanging up. She did this twice more. On her fourth attempt, she allowed it to ring until it reached Viktor's voicemail.

She inhaled sharply and then left a rambling voicemail. "Viktor. Its me. Its Miranda. Its... I need you to come here. Remember, when I started out, you said I should always call you. I am now. Why haven't you checked in with me? You always check in..."

She carried on, ranting for several minutes and lurching between topics at a nonsensical speed. Normally, she would be mortified at such a show but in that moment, she didn't care. As she spoke, Feliks' movements inside their rental caught her eye.

She had an idea.

"Feliks' hurt me," she said suddenly. "He's hell bent on finding out about his family. If you don't come here, I might have to pass on some information."

For a second, the implications of her actions rang loudly in her head but she pushed them to one side.

She turned her attention back to Feliks and despite her better judgement, found herself following him into the rental.

"I knew you," she said, again an urgent edge to her voice. "When you were small. You were cute upon first glance but there was an edge. Everyone saw it. I've told Viktor." In truth, she was already doubting what she'd said. Still she pressed on. "I told him you're being nosy, poking around where you shouldn't. You most of all should know what curiosity did to the cat..."

Open starter

Miranda stepped out onto the balcony, wincing at the harsh morning light. It might only have been early April, but it felt much later in the year. Begrudgingly, she pulled down her sunglasses; but not before glancing quickly at her companion. Clearing her throat with a cough, she crossed the balcony and took a seat on the recliner.

The steady flow of traffic on the streets beneath her served as a reminder that life went on. The sun rose and it set and the earth kept spinning, whether she was truly on it or not.

Dread pooled in her stomach, she cleared her throat again and turned her attention back to the only other person she'd seen in the last week.

Then, quickly before she lost her confidence, she whispered, "I Cannae remember the last week."

[annacaffeina]

For the last few months I've been genuinely wanting to get some kind of assessment for adult inattentive ADHD but it hasn't happened yet. My therapist recommended someone but it took a couple of weeks for me to call her, and then I left a message and couldn't answer when she called me back, and then I only ever thought of calling her back during non-business hours, and then that happened twice, so it was a few weeks before I spoke to her as she left increasingly annoyed sounded voicemails for me, and when I finally did speak to her she sounded irritated and said she couldn't do the assessment and recommended someone else I had never hear of.

But by that time I was embarrassed by how I had annoyed her with my irresponsibility and feeling weird about cold calling another professional with my stupid theory about ADHD instead of just being responsible for my shit that I never called the lady and now I'm not sure where her number is.

There is some kind of irony here but I can't quite put my finger on it.

[scented-morker]

h o t e l k e y

1.6k words chenle x fem!reader fluff, humour, suggestive based off of the song “hotel key” by old dominion (ik ik a country song gross)

“it makes her think of me, and that night we left our hearts on our sleeves and our clothes all over the floor”

You find yourself releasing yet another deep sigh as your father beckons you from across the ballroom, but you still put in your brightest smile as you make your way through the heavy throng of people, preparing to be introduced to yet another business associate who's name you'll forget way before the end of the night.

"This is my daughter, Y/N"

He was already gesturing and introducing you by the time you made it to the place next to him, and you accepted the hand of the older man standing in front of you.

"Oh she's grown very well, such a pretty girl"

"You aren't the only one to think so, she was recently crowned Queen of the Seoul Pageant, you're looking at a future Miss Korea"

You tried to keep yourself from cringing as your father blatantly boasted about you, hoping the other man would pretend not to notice.

He didn't, instead he did something even worse.

"Oh that's great, my son is about the same age, he just performed his third concert at the Golden Hall of Vienna"

You could see your father controlling his face as to not appear impressed, but when the other man turned around to find his son, you got the pointed look you knew meant 'be better than whatever his child is'.

The man turns back around and you pretend to pay attention while he introduces his son who isn't there yet, the exact same thing your father did.

At the end of his sentence a boy your age approaches, and it might be the first time you've actually been interested in something going on all night.

Because my goodness, he is gorgeous.

"Chenle, this is Mr.Y/L/N"

He shakes your fathers hand and you can't spot a single thing he does that is less than perfect.

"I was just telling him about your concert a few weeks ago"

There's a flicker of something in his eyes and you think maybe he feels the same thing as you, though he quickly recovers into the golden boy he's expected to be.

"Oh I hope you weren't bragging, it wasn't anything that special"

"Now don't be so humble Mr.Chenle, that is very impressive"

You laid on the charm you knew your father wanted, and his short nod of confirmation validated your thoughts.

It seemed that Chenle hadn't noticed you until the words left your mouth, and his eyes seemed to shine when he did.

"You are very beautiful Miss.L/N"

"She's going to be Miss Korea"

You made sure only Chenle could see your small eye roll as your fathers launched into another round of 'my-child-is-better-than-yours".

"How about I get the lovely lady a drink?"

Both of your fathers seem thrilled by the idea, and you weren't going to pass on an opportunity to get away, so you politely nodded and let him lead you away.

"You are an angel, thank you for saving me from that conversation"

He laughed at your immediate character switch, "I hope you weren't there for too long before I got there to save you".

"Doesn't even matter, as long as we're safe now"

He laughed at your dramatic phrasing, walking straight past the bar and towards the front door.

"You wanna get out of here"

"I thought you'd never ask"

He pulled you along with him out the doors, getting his car from the valet and driving out onto the main road.

You inhaled the scent of lemon and new car while you fiddled with the radio, Chenle tapping his fingers on the arm rest while he spoke out loud about ideas of where you could go.

By the time you pull up to some random fancy hotel, you're both laughing to the point of stomach pain, and you don't know why but you had never felt so comfortable with someone so quickly.

"Hello I'd like an executive suite"

You zoned out while he spoke to the woman at the counter, and was only pulled back in when he wrapped his arms around you and yanked you towards his body.

You looked up with wide eyes, but a quick scan of the scene told you what was going on, and your eyes narrowed at where the female worker had her hand still hovering over Chenle's chest, obviously having just been removed from an attempt at flirting. The current contact you had with the boy and the two pairs of eyes on you told you that he had used you as a cover, and he had obviously said something, something they were both waiting for you to respond to.

"I'm pregnant"

They both looked at you, the woman's eyes wide with horror, Chenle's wide with bewilderment, probably at why that was your panicked response.

You looked up to meet his eyes and you both immediately broke into loud laughs, Chenle swiping the key cards from the counter as you both ran towards the first hallway, his hand holding yours the entire way.

When you finally stepped out of the elevator and made it to your suite, there were tears dried on your face from laughing so hard, and Chenle was still teasing you.

"I'm pregnant," his words were once again cut off by his laughter and you smacked his chest as you inserted the card into the door and yanked it open, throwing yourself onto the bed while he came in still laughing.

He tossed himself next to you, turning onto his side and propping his chin on his hand to looks at your face.

"I told her that we had just gotten married and needed a room" he wiggled his eyebrows as you laughed, mirroring his actions as you turned to look at him in the same manner.

"Well I said I was pregnant, so at least she won't get the wrong idea about what we're doing up here"

"Oh yeah? What do you think she's thinking?"

His voice gets softer and he leans in towards your face, to the point where your lips are only centimeters away.

"You know"

"No I don't think I do?"

"The devils tango. The sideways salsa. The no pants dance. Hanky panky"

He had lost it by the first euphemism, but you kept going, although making him laugh that hard while being so close proved to be a bad idea, and you felt his head hit yours before you had the chance to move away.

"I was going to kiss you but after that I don't think I want to"

He barely got the words out between his laughs and you acted offended, although disappointment was the real emotion you were feeling.

"Why? Because I'm too funny?"

"Yeah, uh-huh that's totally it"

He had finished his laughing fit and was able to speak clearly, a smile on his face while he rolled his eyes, continuing his path back to your lips.

You were barely a millimeter apart when your phone started ringing, both of your groans echoing throughout the room while you blindly reached for the device.

"Where are you? I cant find you and Chenle's father seems to not be able to locate him either. You better be making smart decisions. I'll let you go this time but we've got another party next week and you will be there the entire time"

Your fathers voice was loud through the phone, and you were sure Chenle heard every word.

"Ugh" you let out an angry groan as the voicemail finished, throwing the device somewhere across the room.

"Why do they always do this?"

Chenle got a similar text from his father, and now both of you were mad, knees touching as you sat angrily on the hotel bed.

"What do you think they'd do if we just ran away?"

He looked at you in amusement, not a single ounce of surprise in his gaze.

"I've thought about it, leave the city"

"Maybe the country" you added, and chenle let out a melodic laugh, content to sit in some random hotel with you and talk about running away together.

But that wasn't what you wanted right now.

Right now the thought on both of your minds was to make you fathers mad.

“You better kiss me before we get interrupted again”

You don’t have to tell him twice, within a second his lips are crashing into yours, tongues clashing and hands grabbing at whatever they can reach, both of you trying to contain your smiles at the feeling of freedom.

When you woke up the next day the alarm on the side table read 3:00 and a laugh left you mouth as you woke up the boy next to you.

“Chenle we were supposed to check out three hours ago”

His eyes widen but he joins in your laughter anyway, both rushing around the room to locate your belongings.

The same check in lady at the desk from yesterday glares at you as you run through the halls, and since you paid yesterday you thankfully don’t have to speak to her, Chenle just throwing the key card down on the front desk and running with you in his arms towards his car.

He was too busy dismissing calls from his father and screaming along with the radio to notice the way you slipped the other key card into your small purse.

“we both know we can’t open the door no more, but she kept the hotel key”

[killjoygem]

Okay!! I've now watched Spider Man with Toby Maguire, The Amazing Spider Man with Andrew Garfield and Spider Man Homecoming with Tom Holland

Overall I think I have to put my rankings at

3. Spiderman (2002). Its good but I just liked the others more

2. Spiderman Homecoming (2017). Very flawed as a spiderman movie but so fun to watch

1. The Amazing Spider-man (2012). All round great, lots of funny moments, great characterisation, decent action and sfx, and made me cry at least twice.

Some more comparisons under the cut

Comparing the spider men

In terms of generally just being a good spiderman, I rank Andrew Garfield's as the best, and Tom Holland's as the worst. As much as I love him, half the time tom hollands spidey seemed to cause more damage than he stopped, and he was far too eager to move onto bigger, "more important" things than defending his home

In terms of coolness as spiderman, Tom Holland comes last again. The fact he didn't jump off any really high buildings just for funsies is a tragedy. Andrew Garfield comes first, that handstand into the fall off the building was epic.

In terms of who was the biggest fucking nerd, Toby Maguires spiderman wins. They really sold the "absolute least popular guy in school" vibe. Tom Holland comes last again for this, he was a nerd but he was like, a socially acceptable nerd

Tom Holland's spiderman did the best at giving you the feeling he was just a kid, who was a little in over his head. I felt very protective of him through the movie, and the times when he missed out on school events bc he had other responsibilities was both heartbreaking and relatable

Comparing Aunt Mays and Uncle Bens

Out of the aunt mays, 2012 aunt may was my absolute favourite. Her bond with Peter was so good, despite not being his birth mother you can tell that he's a son to her, and vice versa. I love this one scene where its like. You can tell she knows, but she doesn't say anything. And the next time Peter comes home bloody and bruised, and with the damn eggs she just hugs him so tight like she doesnt want to let go.

I think 2017 aunt may was the hottest and funniest but she just didn't give the same emotional depth as 2012 aunt may, and I feel like we didnt see enough of her relationship with Peter. 2002 Aunt May was good but I didnt feel like anything particularly stood out with her, you could tell she really loved Peter though.

With Uncle Ben i obviously can't compare from the 2017 movie, because he wasn't in it. Out of the other two, I once again preferred 2012 uncle Ben, I dont know what it is but he just felt more like a loveable father figure, and I felt much more emotional when he died than I did when 2002 uncle Ben died. And that voicemail he left for peter made me cry again

Comparing love interests

Hard to compare because they're all completely different people. They all had really good characters but I think Gwen Stacy has to be my favourite. I feel like Gwen had the most character, and Liz had the least. I did like MJs (2002) character and story as well but idk, I just liked Gwen more. I think MJ just felt a bit like a damsel in distress at times. And Liz doesn't really have much character aside from generic high school love interest, I still liked her but I dont have particularly strong feelings about her

MJ (2017) doesn't become a love interest until the sequel but I figured I can compare the MJs too. Actually no I cant, I like them both equally. Again though, I feel like 2002 MJ actually had a story, whereas we didnt really know much about 2017 MJ

Comparing the friends

I dont recall Andrew Garfields spiderman really having any friends except Gwen so I'll leave him out of this. (I know Harry is in the sequel but ive not watched it yet)

Out of Harry and Ned, i think I actually prefer Ned. He just seems more fun to me, Harry seemed like a bit of a dick at times, which I dont mind too much but it still puts him below Ned in my mind

Comparing the movies generally

Over all I found the 2012 movie to be the best over all, it was really cool and exciting, really funny, super emotional. I just loved it a lot

I do think that 2017 spiderman was the funniest, all the films had points where I was laughing, but it definitely felt like there was more in Homecoming. In general Homecoming just felt very much like a "feel good" film, where as 2012 was a pure emotion rollercoaster, and I felt like 2002 leaned the most into the typical action genre.

--

Okay! I think that's all I have to say for now, I might come back and add more later if i think of anything

[jaycewrites-192000]

Growl: Ch. 11

Warnings: None

Tag List: @theravencawsatmidnight @etroman @kaariqueen

(What I write about Kyotani's dad is completely made up)

It was Saturday afternoon, meaning it was time for Kyotani's punishment. But to him, it wouldn't be as nearly as bad of a punishment since Y/n was with him. She really didn't have to be here, but she was anyway. The two got to work at cleaning, Kyotani would mop the floors while Y/n would clean the windows. "You know Ken, this is a really weird first date." Y/n chuckled as she sprayed more window cleaner on the dirty window of the gym door. Kyotani's heart fluttered at the new nick name. "Yeah? Well, guess I'll have to really make up for it huh?" He said.

"Yes you will. I'm a lady, a lady shouldn't have to clean smudged windows." Y/n said, placing her hand over her chest in a classy way. "Shame on you." Kyotani rolled his eyes. "Pardon me madam. But you could have stayed home." He countered. "And miss out on time with my boyfriend? As if. And I never said this was a bad date." She moves onto another set of windows after finishing the first. "How sweet." Kyotani smirks.

"Oh hey, I bet your mom will be thrilled to know that we're together now. She was really laying it on thick how much she wanted us to date." Kyotani paused. That was right, his mom was desperately trying to get him and Y/n together. Well, mission accomplished then. "Yeah, it's going to be so annoying to hear from here how she was right. And my sister is just gonna be a bi-a jerk about it." Kyotani caught himsef.

Y/n giggled and made her way over to him. "How about after we finish this, you take me over to your place? We can all celebrate together." Before Kyotani could give her an ok, he stopped and thought about something. "Ken?" Y/n tilts her head. "Oh, uh, not today." He muttered. Y/n raised an eyebrow. "Why?"

Kyotani hesitated before answering. "My dad is visiting tonight..." Y/n blinked a few times. 'Does...he not have a good relationship with his father?' She thinks. The last time his father was brought up in conversation, he acted this was too. "Ken, do you and him...is there something going on?" She didn't exactly know how to word it other than that. "We don't hate each other, if that's what you think." He tells her.

"Then what? If you don't mind saying." She asked. Kyotani sighs and sets aside the mop he held. Y/n walked behind him and sat on the stage part of the gym. She pats the spot next to her, Kyotani walked over and sat next to her. "He left when I turned 15. My mom and him just kinda...fell apart. And they got a divorce."

"Oh. Kentaro, I'm so sorry." Y/n placed her hand on top of his. "It's fine...I mean, I don't hate either of them for it. And they don't hate each other either it's just...weird you know? He only ever comes by ever few weeks during the weekends. Other than that, I get phone calls and letters from him. He moved to another city so, we don't see each other often. So you can imagine how awkward it gets." Y/n nods as she listens. She looks down at her lap and lets out a soft sigh.

"I wish my situation was even slightly like yours." Kyotani looks at her confused. "Divorced parents too?" Y/n nods. "Yeah but...me and my father...we don't talk at all. It's rare I even get a phone call from the deadbeat." Her eyebrows furrow, and a light scowl formed on her lips. "I'm sorry." She shakes her head. "This isn't about me."

"No it's fine. I've already explained my story. Go ahead." Kyotani insists. "Ok well...He left me and my mother when I was only 10. Mom caught him cheating with some woman he worked with. And apparently, he had been a bit of a drinker before I was born. After that, he would only drink now and then but whenever he did, me and mom didn't see much of him. After my mom found about the affair, she divorced him. And I hadn't seen him since."

Y/n continued. "My father was the one with the well paying job so, after the scandal he was fired. That's when my mom started working a lot more, so we don't talk as much as we use to." By the end of the story, Y/n was crying. "I'm sorry...I haven't really talked about this so..." Kyotani wiped her tears and held her close. "It's fine, you don't have to be sorry." He said in a hushed tone. Y/n laughs weakly, trying to lighten the mood. "Wow, when did cleaning the gym turn into a therapy session?"

Kyotani chuckles lightly and stroked the back of her head. "Since now I guess." Suddenly Kyotani's phone started to buzz. He pulled it out of his pocket and looked at the screen. "Speak of the fucking devil." It was his father. "He can wait." He was about to send him to voicemail before Y/n stopped him. "No it's ok. Go ahead. I'll get back to cleaning while I wait." Y/n hopped up and grabbed her cleaning supplies again. "You sure?" Kyotani asked.

"Yep!" Y/n beamed before getting back to cleaning. Kyotani looked at the screen again, sighed and then answered. "Hey dad..."

Y/n could catch small bits of the conversation. "Yeah....yep....Wait, really? Oh uh, I can't just yet....I'm at the school I uh, got into a fight so they're making me clean....I know...I know. Yeah ok, I'll be there ok? Alright bye." Kyotani sighed heavily before putting his phone away. "Looks like my dad decided to come early. Damn it said he wouldn't be here until later tonight." Y/n turns to him. "Was he upset? That you had gotten in trouble?" She asks.

"Yeah, but it's whatever. I'll just have to hear more about it later. Fuck." Kyotani leans against a wall. Y/n set aside the cleaning stuff and strides over to him. "Sorry." Kyotani looks at her. "You need to stop apologizing for things that aren't you're fault." He pets her head. "Besides, I did it for you. It's well worth the lecture." He then leans down and kisses her head softly. "Mhm." Y/n blushes brightly. Then a thought suddenly made it's self present in her head. She fiddles with her hands for a moment, trying to figure out the best way to ask this.

"Ken?" Kyotani hums. "Um...would you be opposed to me...meeting your father?" She mumbles the last part of her sentence. Kyotani eyes winded, he wasn't sure how to take that. You already met his mother and sister, so meeting his father shouldn't be such a bad idea. But, he wanted to spare her the awkwardness the night was sure to bring. "Y/n..." He says with a sigh.

Y/n shook her head. "N-nevermind. It's ok. That sounded a bit pushy, sorry." Kyotani scowled slightly. "What did I say about apologizing for things you shouldn't be sorry for?" He rubbed the back of his neck, his eyes looking everywhere but her as he thinks. "Ok. You can come meet him."

"Really?" Y/n asks. "Yeah, just, don't say I didn't warn you." Y/n smiles and hugs him tightly. "Thank you Ken!" Kyotani couldn't help but smile and hug her back. "Don't mention it."

That night, Y/n were heading home with Kyotani. Unlike before, an overwhelming wave of nervousness came over her. She was actually going to be meeting his entire family this time. Before Kyotani could bring her to his home, she made a quick stop at her place to change into something more suitable. Kyotani told her it wouldn't be necessary, but she was not about to show up at his place and look a hot mess in front of his family. On the way there, she kept fiddling with heer outfit, making sure it wasn't wrinkled.

"You're nervous." Kyotani spoke up. Y/n paused her actions momentarily. "Yeah, no duh. I want to make a good impression. I know I've met your mother and sister already, but now I'm meeting your father too. And, we're dating so that makes this twice as important." She bring her hands down at her sides. "I want them to like me." Kyotani reached down and held Y/n's hand. "Come on, you're worrying over nothing. You know how much my mom likes you. And my sister does too, she just doesn't want to say."

"And as for my father, who cares if he likes you or not? I like you, that's all that matters. I wouldn't have fell in love with you, if I thought you were a shitty person. There is so much about you that I love. The way you smile, the way you laugh, you always know how to cheer me up, you make me feel loved Y/n. Not to mention you're really cute." Y/n's face turned bright red at his words, he was also a little red. "That should be enough for them. And if it's not, then screw 'em."

Y/n laugh. "That's a little mean, don't you think?" Kyotani smirked and let go of her hand, so he could snaked his arm around her waist. "Not when it comes to you." Before the two teens knew it, they had arrived at Kyotani's home. Kyotani glanced at Y/n, who was holding his hand tightly. "You ready?" He asks. Y/n nods, a determined smile on her face. "I'm ready." Kyotani knocked on the door, and waited. Shortly after, the door opened, revealing a tall man with the same buzz cut as Kyotani, only his was black and not blonde. His golden eyes, that matched Kyotani's too, fell from him to Y/n.

Assuming that was Kyotani's father, Y/n bowed her head in respect. "Nice to meet you sir." She greets him politely. "I apologize for suddenly showing up, but I thought it was time I formally met Kentaro's father." She looks back up, half expecting the same glare Kyotani had when she first met him. But instead, there was a warm and kind smile. "Ah, so this is the famous Y/n Kaori was talking about! Nice to meet you too young lady, the name's Botan." He held out his hand, Y/n smiled softly before taking it. "And just as pretty as I thought she was. Nice work son." Kyotani's dad gave his son a thumbs up.

Kyotani rolled his eyes, cheeks red. "Yeah yeah." He muttered. "Let's just go inside." Kyotani's dad lead the two in where they were greeted by Kaori and Natsuki. "Y/n! What a surprise! Come on in!" Kaori waved her hand, motioning her to come closer. "Hey." Natsuki nods at her before turning her attention back to her phone. Y/n couldn't help but wonder just what kept her glued to that thing. A boyfriend? Girlfriend? A stupidly overrated meme?

"See, didn't I tell you she was beautiful?" Kaori says to Botan. "Yep! Our son sure knows how to bag a good one!" He laughs. "You two...cut it out!" Kyotani hides his red face. 'Wow...they're so alike...' Y/n thought with an awkward smile. "Thank you for having me."

"Like I said, you're welcomed here anytime Y/n." Kaori smiles. "Now, have a seat. Dinner is almost ready. I hope you like (favorite food)!" Y/n's smile brightens. "I do, thank you so much!" It was a nice gesture, but she couldn't help but wonder just how Kaori knew that was her favorite meal. Maybe it was just insane luck? Whichever, she was excited!

"So you're really serious about my bro, huh?" Natsuki glances up at her. Y/n nods, placing her hand on Kyotani's. "I am. I intend on staying with him as long as possible." Natsuki sighs and turns her attention back to her phone. "Eh, hope you like dumbasses then, cause you're stuck with one."

"Natsuki..." Kyotani grits his teeth together. "What, it's true." Natsuki smirks. "Alright you two, no more fighting. We have a guest, we should make her feel welcomed." Botan says trying to calm the tension between the two siblings. "Oh I do feel welcomed, you guys are really the nicest family I've ever met. I'm a little jealous..." Y/n admits shyly.

"Well Y/n, you should start considering yourself part of the family now. Anyone who is willing to date our hot headed son, is family. Especially when they're so polite!" Kaori adds. "Now, who's ready for dinner?"

Y/n felt her chest fill with warmth, she hadn't felt this way in a long time. She had found herself a loving boyfriend, who loves her just as much as she loves him, and to top it all off, his family was so welcoming. It really felt like she was accepted into their lives as one of them. Who knows, maybe one day she really will become part of the family, if Kyotani decides to pop that oh so pretty question, and gives her his last name.

Until then, she was happy with what was right in front of her. And she didn't plan on letting go anytime soon.

Previous | Next

[birdsandspades]

I Was Never Good at Waiting (Sugawara x Reader) Chapter 14

- It was your last year in highschool, everything had been going smoothly until you got assigned the new teacher. Sugawara Koushi was handsome, maybe too handsome for his own good. Be he wasn’t flirting with you right, teachers shouldn’t do that….I guess we will see where this year goes.

Word Count - 7,451

-Does this have spelling errors, yes. Did I try to proof read this, yes. Do I have work in a few hours, yes. Also tumblr hates my old gif so I guess we're switching it.

----

You could only read a sentence so many ways. Forwards, backwards, skipping every other word as if some hidden message was hiding between the white lines.

“Sugawara told me you needed a fake boyfriend for the day and gave me your number for the details. What time do you need me to show up at the station tomorrow?”

It was a well written text message, all the words fully typed out. This was definitely not from anyone of your slightly illiterate classmates.

The area code belonged to one of the Tokyo subdivisions. The same three Iwa-chan had while he was going to school at Tokyo university. Maybe whoever this was attended the school as well?

You chewed on your lip in tandem with the blinking of your text cursor. You had to reply but with what?

“Maybe Koushi is awake.” You scrolled through your recent calls, tapping on his contact. The phone sat silent for a moment before ringing once, twice, three times. No answer. His voicemail droned on as you looked into the dark kitchen.

“Hi you’ve reached Sugawara Koushi, i’m not able to answer right now. If you leave me a message i’ll…” You ended the call, watching as the screen closed and the message opened back up.

Something was turning, working away as you started at the phone icon that sat next to the unknown number.

“His voicemail will have his name!” You had reached your aha moment as you dialed the number, lifting the phone to your ear. You could be smart when you wanted to be.

No answer, not much to your surprise, it was in fact very late. You waited for the voicemail as you slid to the edge of the sofa seat.

“I’m sorry, but the person you called has a voice mailbox that has not been set up yet. Goodbye.”

You pulled the phone away from your ear slowly, carefully setting in on the coffee table. Turning to the side you threw your head into the sofa cushion and screamed.The universe could give you a break, maybe even a little crack. Bend just a little bit?

You had no plan A, or B, or C at this point. And despite not wanting to rely on a complete stranger to dig you out of yet another one of your problems, Sugawara had put a plan in place at some point in your evening. A poorly set up plan, but something nonetheless.

You sat back up and grabbed your phone again. You would just text him and wait, hope that he got it and showed up. Eight hours was plenty of notice right?

“We will be at the Tokyo station at noon tomorrow, i’ll be waiting at the plaza water fountain just outside the entrance.”

Sent.

It was now a waiting game as you set the phone down beside you. You head tilting back till it met the plush top of the sofa back. You watched the ceiling fan turn, counting the seconds as you waited for any kind of response. Five minutes turned to ten, ten to thirty, and soon enough it had been an hour. Whatever came after was forgotten as your lids inched shut, the burning in your eyes too much to suffer through.

Whatever anxiety you had sunk to the back of your mind as you finally got your break, some uninterrupted sleep.

---

You sat up, rubbing your eyes as you looked around the dark living room. Your phone chimed on the seat next to you, the bright screen making you squint. You felt for the device, lifting it up as you yawned.

“One missed call from :Tooru (#1 Senpai) Oikawa”

You redialed the number, lifting the phone to your ear as you stood up. You could see the light bleeding through your blinds as you walked over to the window, with one tug of the string beside them the room was flooded. You stretched, shifting the phone to your other ear as the ringing stopped and the voicemail beeped.

“Sorry but I can’t make it to the phone right now, if this is in regards to any events or games please call my agent. Bye!” Tooru’s voice chimed on the other end.

“Hi, sorry I just woke up. Call me back when you get this?” You hung up, the screen illuminating again with another call.

You clicked on it, raising it again to your ear. “Hey, good morning.”

“You mean good afternoon.” Yua corrected.

You smiled, shaking your head as you turned to look into the kitchen. You squinted, trying to make out the red numbers on the stove clock. Ten...twenty...four….

“It's not noon yet Yua, it's only 10:30.”

“Yeah and the train leaves at 11:00…” She went silent, as did you.

“Oh my god...Oh my god!” You screamed into the phone as she pulled the speaker away from her own ear.

“See you in thirty early worm.” She chuckled as she hung up the phone, you needed all the time you could get.

You looked at the time again, thirty minutes was hardly enough time to get to the station, let alone get ready for an entire date (date?).

You took a deep breath before running up the stairs. You would have to cut out the non essential things. Showering, makeup, brushing your hair, probably not going to happen. You slid to a stop at the bathroom door, taking a step back to look at yourself in the mirror. Maybe you could find time to brush your hair.

---

You could not describe the mess your room was in as you closed the door behind you twenty minutes later, toothbrush still in your mouth as you jumped down the stairs.

“Shoes, where did I put my stupid shoes?” You groaned as you reached under the coffee table.

You pulled one out, throwing it by the door as you ducked back under the wooden table to grab the other. Your phone buzzing in your pocket startled you as you bumped your head on the underside of the table.

“Ow…” You rubbed the sore spot as you pulled the other shoe out. Today was already off to a bad start.

“Almost ready, almost ready.” You chanted as you made your way to the door, like a mantra to trick your brain into a false sense of security as you shoved your foot into your sneakers.

You were looping the laces on your shoes when Yua called again.

Your brain was doing well with one thing at a time, as most brains tended to do. But the vibration in your hand pulled all focus away from your already clumsy half standing shoe tying, your left foot coming down on the still unlooped laces of your right. You tried to pick up the foot, one foot, the wrong foot. Your right foot raised up, the bunge of the laces toppling you over in the doorway as you tried to answer the phone.

You picked your previously floor planted face and glowered at the phone, the vibrations mirroring the tingling in your knees.

You rolled over, lifting the phone to your ear.

“Ten minutes, the train leaves in ten minutes Y/N!” Yua warned.

“Yeah, i’m like almost there.” You mumbled, phone sandwiched between your shoulder and cheek as you moved the toothbrush still in your mouth over. You finished tying your shoes before standing back up.

Yua laughed, she knew you were lying. “I can’t understand you, just make sure you're on the train.” She ended the call, leaving your line silent.

You grabbed your bag and coat off the hangers, and pulled the front door open. Leaning back in to set your toothbrush on the door side bench, you would put it up later. Trading your phone for your keys, you fished them out of your bag and locked the door behind you.

You ran down your porch steps, scanning over the now empty driveway. Sugawara’s car was gone.

“He must have come early in the morning to get it…” You shrugged, you would ask him later.

You ran. Down the sidewalk, across the busy street, and over the bridge that led to the station opening. You stopped for no one as you pushed your way through the crowds on the platform. You had turned a fifteen minute walk into a six minute sprint, a new record.

You squeezed down the station stairs, your train just up ahead. You could see Yua from the door opening, a seat open next to her. She waved at you to hurry, her attention on the overhead speakers. You could hear the announcement, the train doors were about to close.

The door inched shut as you jumped off the platform and onto the now departing train. The doors sealed behind you as the overhead announced the train exiting the station.

You bent over, hands on your knees as you fought to catch what breath you had left. Yua’s growing laughter hid under your uneven pants, peaking between each thump in your ear.

“Wow, I don’t think I've ever seen you run so fast.” She tried her best to stifle her laughs, the passengers around watching you both with curiosity.

You looked up between the strands of hair, glaring at the hand she offered you.

“Miss?” A man walked over, looking between you and the train door. He reached behind you, pulling at the back of your coat, the tail end stuck between the tightly sealed doors. You could see the other end flapping in the wind through the glass window, a little flag of defeat.

Yua broke again, her laughs echoing around the train as the man tugged at the stuck material. Today was the day, you were going to actually kill her.

You slid the coat off your shoulders, letting it fall back onto the door. You thanked the man as he walked back to his seat, his sullen look matching your own. He had at least tried.

“I hate you.” You groaned, taking the seat beside Yua.

“And I brought you a coffee.” She handed you the warm cup, her smile matching it. “I had a feeling a superstar like you would be up late last night.”

You took the cup, your frown leveling out as you took a drink.

“You changed your hair.” You mused, looking over the vibrant dye.

“Oh yeah, I wanted something new and I figured I would surprise you.” Yua touched her now blue bob, twirling the front strands around her finger.

“You look like a blueberry.” You teased. You liked it, it fit her better then blonde.

“You look like you didn’t even brush your hair.” She pushed you, sitting back in her seat. She knew what you meant, she always did.

You smiled, leaning into her. “I hate you.”

“So how was the concert last night, did Ryu do a ten minute solo this time?” She took the cup from your hands and took a drink.

“It went well, it sold out.” You chuckled, taking the coffee back.

“One day when you're famous will you write a song about me?” She grinned the same gummy smile she always gave you.

“Yeah, i’ll call it “Yua: The Gremlin of Aoba Johsai.”

She pushed you again, rolling her eyes. “I hope you don’t talk to your boyfriend like that.”

“I’m meaner.” You deadpanning, the corners of your mouth turned up as she tried her best to hide her own smile.

“Are you excited to meet him?”

You nodded, the uneasy feeling setting back into your stomach.

“Don’t worry, today is going to be great.” She reassured you, placing her hand over your own.

“Yeah, i’m sure it will be.” You returned her smile, hopefully she was still this happy when the day was over.

You took your phone out of your pocket, no notifications. You had checked during your mid morning panic, but had gotten nothing from Sugawara or your mystery date today. You were starting to doubt there would even be a “boyfriend” to meet.

---

The train pulled into the station, the speakers announcing your stop. You stood up and grabbed the arm of your coat, the doors parting as you pulled the creased fabric out.

You followed the line out, walking over to an open spot along the far wall. You slide your coat back on, the crease smoothing out as you zipped it closed.

Yua reached out, straightening your collar. “Where is he meeting us?”

“The fountain.” You tried to push her hands away, her grip on your collar tightening.

“Stop, let me fix you.” She aggressively pulled at your coat, jiggling you back and forth.

“Ok mom.” You grab her wrists, prying her off of you.

“Ah sorry, it's just. You got so big so fast!” She wipes away a fake tear, chasing after you as you walk up the station stairs.

“I hate you.” You groan, holding the station door open.

You walked together to the fountain nestled in the middle of the plaza. It was busy, groups walking around the park that surrounded the stone circle. It was a popular meetup spot for the area. The perfect walking distance between the university, the train station, and the central hub of the city.

“See him?” Yua nudged you, pulling your eyes away from a group across the park.

You looked around the area, no single person separated from their groups. Whoever was supposed to meet you wasn’t there yet.

You shook your head, leaning against the cold brick of the fountain. The day was warm, pleasant on the exposed skin of your hands. It was the last of the mild weather, the heat of the days increasing as June approached.

Japan had a beautiful way of changing seasons, easing into everything just a bit later than the rest of the world. Right now you were on the cusp of spring and summer, the days melding together as the temperature changed. September the air would cool down, the trees' leaves fading into warmer hues. Snow would cover the barren branches in December, coating the country in white.

School would break then for a few days, giving the students rest for the final term. You would return in January, and the flowers would follow suit in March. You would graduate with the buds, the flowers blooming for a new class.

School broke for about a month after March, the longest break the school would give. You jokingly called it summer break, the closest thing you would get in the Japanese school system. It was the best time to get a part time job, and that's just what you did last year.

You wondered what you would do once you graduated, what that last summer break would be like. It would be the last chance to see your friends, spend time like this before everyone would leave for school.

You had been lost in thought for a bit by the look on Yua’s face. Her hand waving you back to reality.

“Hey, he’s gonna show up. Maybe he’s just late.” She smiled, placing a hand on your shoulder.

“Yeah, he’s probably just late…” You returned the sweet gesture. You had never gotten a reply, with your luck whoever had texted you decided not to come.

Yua looked behind you, tilting her head up. “Can we help you?”

“You could have texted me a little earlier last night F/N.”

You turned around, eyes traveling up the tall man in front of you. “Tsukishima?”

Yua looked between the two of you, her confusion growing each time.

“Tsukishima!” You smiled, shouting a little louder than intended. You wrapped your arms around him, his body tensing at the sudden contact.

He leaned down, wrapping an arm around you as he hovered by your ear. “You may want to try better than that if you want to convince her.” He harshly whispered in your ear, smiling at your friend behind you.

“Well maybe you should have included a name in your message if you were planning on never texting me back.” You gritted your teeth.

Tsukishima laughed, pulling away from the shared hug. He dug his fingers into your skin, pinching your side before walking to greet Yua.

“I’m Tsukishima Kei.” He reached a hand out, the same smile still plastered on his face.

Yua grabbed his hand, shaking it energetically. “I’m Okada Yua. Wow you're a lot better looking than I thought you would be.”

Tsukishima nodded, pulling his hand away. “Thank you?”

“I just thought you would be bald...and creepy.” She smiled, unaware of her backhanded compliment.

“Ok, with that what should we do?” You clapped your hands together, ready to get the day over with.

“I know a cafe at the end of the park, are you two hungry?” Tsukishima placed a hand on your back, guiding you down the pathway.

He was different, something slightly off with the smile that had remained on his face. He wasn’t this sweet last night was he? His dark haired friend had all the charm.Tsukishima, he had the wit.

Yua chatted with him as you walked together, laughing at whatever joke he had said. You instead bore a hole into the side of his face, brows knitting together.

“F/N, are you ok?” He questioned, tilting his head. That same fake sweetness drenching his tone.

“I’m fine.” You smiled, shaking your head.

His eye twitched slightly, the smallest falter in his appearance. “This is it.” He held open the door to the cafe, watching as you walked in behind Yua.

“Hi, can we get a table for three please.” Tsukishima smiled at the lady behind the counter, his hand on your shoulder as the door behind you shut with a jingle.

“Of course.” She nodded, walking out from behind her post.

You craned your neck to look behind you at the tall blonde, his smile wavering once the hostess had led Yua off. “Walk?” He nodded forward and gave you a push.

“Rude.” You grumbled as Yua took a seat at a small table nestled in the window lit corner of the cafe.

“Is this ok?” The hostess smiled, looking between you and the man beside you.

“It’s perfect for a first date.” Tsukki nodded, forcing a grin as he gave you another push into the booth.

Yua audibly awed at the sentiment as she wiggled in her seat, “How cute, I'm going to throw up.”

Tsukki slid in next to you as he rolled his eyes, he hated this as much as you did.

“Have whatever you want, my treat.” He handed you a menu.

“You don’t have to Kei-san, Yua eats a lot…” You protested, a foot connecting with your shin.

“Let your sweet boyfriend pay for us.” Yua scolded through a forced smile.

“It’s no problem. It’s the least I can do for buying her a ticket to come see me.” Tsuki looked down at you, his shoulder brushing against yours. “Call me Tsukki F/N, you don't need to be so formal.” He joked. He played his part well.

Your cheeks grew hot, you hated the thought of being so informal with someone you hardly knew ,“Tsukki…”

“How did you both meet?” Yua interrupted, surely saving you from the awkward encounter. “First date nerves”, she thought.

“One of her concerts. I have a few classes with Ryu so he introduced us.” Tsukki nodded, turning his attention away from you.

“You go to college right?” Yua added, setting down her menu.

“Yeah, just across the way at Tokyo University.”

“Wow, that's expensive! What are you going for?”

“Undecided.”

“Well what are your interests, do you have hobbies?”

You could see his smile falter at the barrage of questions from Yua, her interest in the last waning as she asked another cluster.

“Sorry to interrupt, can I order anything for you?” The waitress smiled, book in hand as she looked around the table.

Yua listed off her feast as Tsukishima leaned over your shoulder to look at the menu still in your hand.

“Iced mango tea please.” He looked back at you as you shifted nervously in your seat.

“One iced americano please.” You attempted to hand the menu back to her, slightly leaning over Tsukishima as you looked at him to move over. He leaned back in his seat, a smirk pulling at the corner of his lips. You frowned, leaning further over his large frame to give the menu back.

A glass tipped over a few tables over, the patron cursing under their breath. “I’ll put these in for you.” The host nodded before excusing herself to help clean up the spilled drink.

You sat back in your seat, glaring at Tsukki as you scooted towards the window.

“I’m going to use the restroom, you two enjoy some alone time.” Yua wink, sliding out of the booth.

You watched her disappear behind the bathroom door before turning to Tsukki. “Thank you for coming today but you don’t need to be so…”

“Sweet?” Tsukki interrupted.

“Fake.” You corrected, “You weren't even this happy last night…”

“Sugawara-san told me to play the part.” He smiled, pinching at your cheek.

You pushed his hand away, “What else did he tell you?”

“A good amount, he's a chatty drunk.”

A younger man walked up to the table, drinks and treats in hand as he set each one down in front of you.

“Thank you.” Tsukki nodded before turning back to you.

“How chatty?” You questioned, the amused look painting it's way over his features told you enough.

“Excited for volleyball nationals? How about that English test last week? He says you got an A. But you forgot a few commas, you may want to pay attention to that.”

You let your head fall on the table as you groaned, “Did he tell everyone?”

“No, I was the only one who bothered to listen.” He lifted the tea filled glass to his lips, nodding towards Yua coming out of the bathroom.

Her eyes lit up as she sat back down, “This all looks so good, thank you Tsukki!”

His nose wrinkled at the informalities, “Of course.”

“How is it?” He turned towards you as you took a sip of your drink.

“It’s good.” You return his smile, looking over the tall boy's features for the first time that day.

He was in his own ways very handsome, his soft blond hair tousled, falling just below his eyes. The sun shined in just the right way on the sparse auburn highlights that framed the pieces, the lightest shade of strawberry blonde.

He gave you a quizzical look, eyes shining behind the thick rims of his glasses. They were golden, sparkling in the rays of soft yellow sunlight that tinted the entire cafe.

He reminded you of the golden hour, when the sun dipped just enough below to horizon to paint the world in golden yellows.

“You didn’t order anything to eat?” He waved the waitress over again, “You’ll get a stomach ache if you just drink coffee all day.” He nodded for you to order something else as she pulled out her book.

“Ah i’m fine really…” You contested, trying to excuse the waitress.

“Strawberry shortcake?” He looked at Yua as she nodded. “One strawberry shortcake please.”

“Tsukki you didn’t need to get me anything else.” You frowned as she disappeared to put in your order.

“Of course I did, I can’t have my love feeling sick all day.” Tsukki smoothed over your hair, his long fingers trailing down the side of your jaw to turn your flustered gaze towards him.

“T-tsukki!” You stammered pushing his hand away as he chuckled.His personality was killing all the admiration you had for him.

“Cute.” He beamed, before looking over his shoulder.

“Here you go.” The same young boy smiled as he set down your cake.

“Oh, thank you!” You bowed slightly as the boy took his leave.

“Once you finish we can go do anything you like.” Tsukishima pushed the plate towards you as his arm layed around the back of your seat.

“I know he's trying to be convincing but he could lay it on a little less thick.” You shifted slightly as his hand ghosted over your shoulder.

“This has to be some of the best cake i’ve ever had. Do you come here a lot Tsukki?” Yua asked through a mouth of coffee cake.

“Once or twice a week when I need a quiet place to study. This place is open 24 hours a day so it’s pretty nice late at night.”

“Wow, we don’t have anything like that. Maybe I should come here for college.” Yua proclaimed as you took a bite of cake.

“Yua do you think your grades are good enough?” You tease, pushing your foot against her own under the table as she pouted.

“How is your cake?” Tsukishima questions as you cut off another bite.

“It’s good, do you want some?” You slid the plate towards him, he is paying for it after all.

“Sure.” He smiles, leaning over you to take the bite off your fork.

Your froze, fork still in midair as you made eye contact with the shrewd man. The entertainment he got from your expectation was telling enough as to why he was doing this.

Yua’s phone buzzed on the table top suddenly, “Oh excuse me, i’ll meet you guys outside.”

She got up from the table, answering the call as she nodded a thank you to the host and walked out the door.

“Finish you cake.” Tsukishima nudged you, as he got up from the table. “I’m gonna go pay.”

You looked at your fork before setting it down, you hated him.

A few moments later Tsukki came back, sliding in beside you.

You pushed the last bite of cake toward him, frowning at the still apparent smirk on his face.

“Oh don’t be so upset, I was only teasing.” He shook his head as he took the last bite. “Flustering you was a bonus, I only wanted to see if I could agitate him more.”

You looked at the blond confused, “Who?”

“You mean you didn’t know he was coming today?” It was now his turn as his brows knitted together. He snorted, covering his mouth to stifle the laughs.

You shook your head slowly, it just wasn’t clicking. Tsukki sighed and nodded for you to look behind him.

Sitting up slightly you looked at the hat clad man sitting alone by the bathroom door, phone in hand as he flipped through an app. He turned around slightly, hazel eyes meeting your own as he looked back down at his lap.

“What is that idiot doing?” You questioned, leaning over to get a better look at your boyfriend sinking into his oversized jacket.

“Hiding.” Tsukki jokes, his finger tapping on the phone laying on the table before you.

You unlock it, dialing Sugawara. Both of your eyes glued on the incognito man.

He’s phone vibrated, startling him as he jumped in his seat before quickly ignoring the call.

Tsukishima shook his head, before slipping out of the booth. “Let's give him his privacy.”

You nod, picking up your phone to end the call. The notification screen popping back up as you notice another missed call.

“One missed call from :Tooru (#1 Senpai) Oikawa”

“When did he call?” You question, redialing his number for the second time that day. You slid out of the booth, following Tsukishima out of the cafe as the phone rang.

No answer.

You listen to his voicemail, giving Yua a small smile as she looks over at you.

“Sorry I missed you again. Just call me when you get this, or text me...I hope you're having a good day senpai.” You ended the call before walking over to your friends.

“Was the Oikawa-senpai?” Yua questioned as she looked over your face.

“Yeah. He called me this morning too but didn’t leave a message that time either.” You thought back to the late night call you had gotten from him before, it wasn’t unlike him to randomly call you. But never that late and never without a message.

“Do you want to keep trying him?” Tsukki was no stranger to Oikawa or his strange ways, but he could tell from the look on your face that whatever had been bothering you wasn’t a new issue.

“No, it’s ok. I don’t want to keep you guys waiting.” You wave them off, turning up the volume on your phone before putting it back in your pocket.

“Ok.” Tsukki gives you a strange look, his golden eyes unreadable.

“Well what do you guys want to go do?” Yua beams, leaning between the both of you.

“Tsukishima you live over here, is there anything you want to do?” You smile, his eyes softening.

“Not really.” He shrugs.

Yua points to the banner peeking out between the trees of the park, “That looks fun.”

You shift over to see the words boldly written across the white fabric, “New dinosaur exhibit from the United States”

You mouth the words, eyes lighting up at you turned towards and equally bright eyed Tsukki.

He coughed, turning around to hide the growing blush crossing his cheeks as you took a step back.

“We can go if you want Tsukki.”

“I don’t care, whatever you want.” He cleared his throat, avoiding your curious gaze.

“Cute.” You teased, as he pushed you away from him.

“Lets just go.” He grumbles, walking ahead of you.

---

“Wow Tsukki look!” You beamed, pulling him over to another fossilized skeleton of some long dead lizard. “I think this one kinda looks like you.” You teased, pointing to the long neck.

“Think we're distant cousins?” He smiled, stretching his neck out.

You laughed, covering your mouth as groups walking by starred.

“Only if F/N is related to that frilly looking one over there.” Yua added as Tsukishima chuckled.

You fixed your eyes on the familiar hat behind Tsukishima, tucked behind a pillar close to the museum exit. Sugawara had been following close behind the three of you all night, ducking behind exhibits each time you came close.

“I’m going to use the bathroom, i'll meet you both by the exit.” You excused yourself as the other two continued on the prehistoric tour.

You made your way around the opposite side of the pillar, Sugawara looking out the other way as he moved to follow your existing group. You snuck up behind him, looking around him as he scanned to check if it was clear to come out.

“Hi Koushi.” You smiled, looking up at the distracted man.

“Hi F/N.” He looked at you before turning back to the mission at hand, he couldn't let you get too far now could he?

“I like your hat, where did you get it?” You mused, this man was oblivious.

“A gift.” He answers your briefly before spinning around. “Hi!” He chuckles loudly, startled by how close you had gotten.

“What are you doing Koushi?” You tilt your head, an amused smile adoring your face.

“I wanted to make sure your date went well!.” He waved his hands in defense, taking a step back.

You wrapped your hands around his wrist, pulling him back behind the pillar. “And why would you need to do that?”

“Because drunk me worries a lot less than sober me…” He sighs in defeat, what use was it hiding from you. He couldn’t just sit at home while you were on a date with another guy, fake or not.

You groan, rolling your eyes, “ Koushi someone could see you.”

“Well tell Tsukki to stop touching you so much and I wouldn't need to be chaperoning this date.” He huffed in reply, folding his hands over his chest.

“He’s just trying to convince Yua.” You couldn’t help but smile, jealous Sugawara was your favorite.

“Yeah he’s trying something…” He looked away, cheeks growing red at your gaze.

“You're ridiculous, I have to go. Try not to let Yua see you ok?” You stood up on your tiptoes, pushing his hat up enough to press a quick kiss to his cheek before leaving.

He put a hand over the warm spot, throwing his head back as he groaned. He grumbled to himself as he walked off, he might as well try to beat you home at least.

---

“Hey sorry!” You looked between the two as they turned away from their conversation.

“Was it the coffee?” Yua frowned.

“I did tell you to eat.” Tsukki added, chuckling as you smack his arm.

“I hate you both.” You whined, Yua giggling.

“The train is gonna be at the station in about thirty minutes, I think we should head back.” Yua pointed to the clock in the center of the museum, nodding towards the sun setting just [ast the tree line.

“Wow, is it already seven?” You looked at her wide eyed as Tsukki nodded.

“We can cut through the park, the station is just on the other side.”

You followed him and Yua out of the museum, falling behind as you looked down at your illuminated phone.

“It’s Tooru, I'll catch up.” You waved them off as you lifted the phone to your ears.

---

Oikawa looked up at your door, taking a deep breath before shifting the bouquet of flowers to his other hand. He tapped on your door lightly before taking a step back.

Your lights were on in your bedroom, the soft yellow peeking out of the white curtains. He stood on his tiptoes as he watched for some kind of movement behind them.

His anxiety grew as he sank back down on the balls of his feet, nervously chewing on his lip as he reached to knock on your door one more time, this one a bit louder.

He had tried to call you, but for some reason most of them weren't going through. The few that did were never picked up.

He didn’t want to confess to you over a voicemail, and his nerves were too much to leave a coherent message on why he was calling you in the first place.

“Where are you?” He questioned, knocking again on the door. Readjusting the bouquet in his hands he straightened his back and watched the door again.

He knew you were off from practice today, only because he drove by the school three times to check. Were you asleep, working on homework, maybe you had taken a walk down to the corner store.

“Maybe I should call her again.” He frowned, moving the flowers into one hand as he pulled out his phone.

The seconds between each ring felt like eons, his heartbeat stopping all together when the next one didn’t come. His breath hitched once he heard your voice faint on the other end, talking to someone before speaking to him.

“I think that may have been the longest game of phone tag we’ve had in awhile.” You smiled, happy someone had finally gotten through.

“Yeah, it definitely might have been.” He returned your laugh as he looked out at the setting sun over the building tops. He relished the sound of your voice, leaning into the phone.

“What are you doing?”

“Oh nothing, just seeing what your doing tonight.” Oikawa kicked at the concrete step in front of him.

“On a date in Tokyo actually, why?” You look at Tsukki and Yua arguing over what way to go, shaking your head as Yua threw her hands up in defeat.

“Oh, well nevermind then. I was by your house today so I wanted to say hi.” His words caught in his throat, voice cracking.

“Oh, i’ll be back in a few hours…” You frowned, did he sound upset?

“It’s ok, I have to head back to Tokyo for training in the morning.”

“I'm sorry senpai, maybe next weekend?” You stopped walking, Yua waving for Tsukki to stay.

“Yeah, maybe. Get home safe F/N.”

“You too Senpai.” You try to add as the line dies.

He looked down at the bouquet in his hands, lavender and baby's breath peeking out over the opaque cellophane .

He had remembered you mentioning this exact arrangement one night with him. Sobbing into his chest as you cried about never finding a boyfriend, never having a wedding, never getting to have your dream bouquet of flowers.

He found it endearing and quite funny that you decided to confess this to him of all people, the man that of course planned on marrying you one day.

He had wanted to wait until you finished school to tell you of course, you were distracted enough as is. But Sugawara was reason enough to do it sooner rather than later.

He had fought with himself long enough over telling you his true feelings, hated himself for letting another boy break your heart. He couldn’t handle seeing you like that anymore.

So he decided today would be the day, he would confess to you before you and Sugawara got serious. He had planned an entire day but with the lack of communication on both sides now he was left with this. Standing in front of your door as the sun went down, praying that you would open the door before it got any colder outside.

He bit his lip, chuckling as the bouquet fell to his side. “Of course i’ve been trying to reach her all day while she's on a date.”

He looked at the vibrant flowers, his restrained laugh slowly turning into soft sobs. His grip on the stems tightening as he turned back towards his car.

He threw the flowers into the passenger seat before getting in. Turning on the car, he ripped the gear shift back into drive. He sat there a moment, looking at the road in the rearview mirror before easing back into park, foot still rutted into the brake pedal.The lull of the motor reverberated through the steering wheel as he rested his head on the cold leather.

A moment was all he needed, just a moment to be alone as he screamed. Cried out how badly he wanted you to be home, how suffocating it was loving you when you didn't even know, how long he had hated the dull throbbing in his chest everytime he thought of you.

But now his moment was over as he sat back up, rubbing the tears from his swollen eyes as he reversed the car out of your driveway.

---

“Everything ok?’ Yua questions, walking beside you.

“Maybe, Tooru was in town today and wanted to see me.” You looked up at the confused blond behind her.

“Is that a bad thing?” Tsukki tilted his head.

“I’m not sure.” You force a smile as you looked away from your dark phone. “Lets go, we don’t want to miss the train!” You push your friends along, their suspicions waning.

You approached the station with a few minutes for goodbye, eyes falling on each other as you waited for someone to speak first.

“Well i’ll leave you too for your first kiss.” Yua smiles, pushing you towards Tsukishima. “Bye bye Tsukki, it was great meeting you!” She gave him a brief bow before turning to walk away.

“She is so annoying.” You whine as she disappears down the station steps.

“She cares, I think it's...sweet.” Tsukki shakes his head at the bright blue bob looking around the corner at the two of you. “Get home safe, text me that you made it ok if you want.” Tsukishima placed both his hands on the side of your face, leaning in to place a soft kiss on the crown of your head. “I’m sure she’ll ask why if I didn’t.”

You smiled softly up at the blond, “Thank you Tsukki.”

He gave Yua a wave, her head ducking back behind the brick wall of the station as he said his finally goodbyes.

You met Yua as the train pulled in, her squeals pricking your eardrums. “I would have preferred one on the lips for how much I spent on these tickets but that was fine too.”

You rolled your eyes and took a seat besides her on the train. “Ok, ok. Shush before we get kicked off the train.” It was nice to see her happy, despite the deceptive reasonings behind it.

The train ride is spent in silence as you both doze off, you hadn’t been the only one up all night worrying.

As the train pulled in, Yua nudged you awake. Passengers grabbing bags as they departed. You followed behind, walking with her up to the street as you regained some form of coherence.

You gave your friend a wave goodbye ,before turning to leave .Her hand grabbed at the fabric of your sleeve, pulling you back.

“Hey wait can I talk to you really fast?”

“Sure.” It was seldom that you saw Yua timid, eyes avoiding your own as she worked up the courage she usually had.

“Well, F/N. I, well. I’m sorry for everything.” She looked up at you, frowning at your growing smile.

“Yua it's fine, I should have just told you.” You attempted to ease the tension.

“No, it’s not. I didn’t think you could take care of yourself or make these kinds of decisions so I butted into your personal life that you weren't ready to share.” She kicked at the air before taking a deep breath.

“F/N, I was a bad friend. Your mom told me when she left to look out for you and I took it too far. I could have really messed up our friendship.” Her lip quivered as she shook her head. “ I’m sorry, I won’t be your mom anymore!” Her voice was louder then intended as she tried her best to cover the faults in her voice.

You chuckled, placing a hand on your head. “Your stupid and I love you.”

She returned your smile, pushing you lightly. “Go home loser.”

You waved goodbye, walking in opposite directions as you each made your way home. The burden no longer heavy on your friend's chest.

You on the other hand had your own, phone heavy in your pocket.

“Maybe I should call Tooru again, he sounded upset.” You reflected as you walked home.

Something didn’t sit right with you, anxiety building every time you thought about that call.

You pulled out your phone, turning on the screen as you walked up the driveway to your house.

You looked up at the porch, lowering your phone back down.

“Hey you.” You smiled, Sugawara leaning back against the step.

“Hey.” He patted the space beside him, “Let's have a talk.”

You gave him a quizzical look, slowly sinking down beside him.

He looks up at you, his lips in a tight line.“You two are breaking up, I'm not allowing you to see Tsukki anymore.”

You shook your head before laying it against his chest. “That's fine, he thinks he knows more about dinosaurs then me anyways.”

“I’m glad that was the deal breaker.” Sugawara ran his hand down your back as he laid his head on top of yours.

You stayed this way for a while, looking out at the skyline of stars. Your eyes growing heavier as you listened to the soft thumping of the heart that seemed to beat in tandon to your own.

“You should head inside, we have class bright and early tomorrow.” Sugawara pulled you away from his chest, his hand tilting your sleepy gaze to meet his own.

You nodded as he got up. He offered you a hand, helping you up as he brushed the dirt off your pants legs. You walked with him down the stairs to his car, watching him get in. He rolled the window, leaning out to meet you.

“Goodnight.” He smiled, pulling you down to his level. He ghosted his lips over your own before kissing you softly.

“Goodnight.” You leaned your forehead against his before standing back up.

He gave you a small wave before pulling out of your driveway, the size increasing as he drove down the road.

You giggled, watching his car disappear around the corner before making your way back up the steps. As you unlocked your door you noticed a small bud of lilac sticking out from under your doormat, the light illuminating the vibrant sprig as you opened the door.

You leaned down to pick it up, “These don't grow here?” You examined the flower, tilting it over in your hand as the door closed behind you.

----

Previous Chapter- Next Chapter

---

[evefletchr]

coffee

Groaning softly as her email screen refreshed, showing four new additions to the already full inbox, Fallon resisted the urge to slam her laptop shut and pressed her shaking hands to the edge of the desk in an attempt to keep her temper in check.

The entire week was beginning to feel like a write-off. As grateful as she still was for Femperial, it had its moments of feeling like it was more stress than it was really worth. The work itself was fine but the consistent disrespect often outweighed the feelings of empowerment or forward momentum. The constant belittlement from her male competitors had caused her more than her fair-share of Kanye-level office meltdowns. More than one piece of tasteful decor had been destroyed as penance for being within her arms reach after losing a potential client that she was courting or listening to a particularly backhanded voicemail.  

Her new publicist - a gentle suggestion from Kirby after the fiasco with Blake’s assault accusations - was incredibly effective, if not a little overbearing. Her morning check-ins were nice, but the having to remember to text her every time Fallon wanted to post on Instagram was already getting old. She appreciated knowing that she was safe from another public scandal for the time being, but she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was being babysat, which she had never been particularly good at.

Her phone buzzing on her desk snapped her attention away from the frustrating emails, and she felt a familiar but entirely unwelcome flutter in her chest when she read the name flashing on the screen.

Kirby.

Letting it ring twice before picking it up, Fallon leaned back in her seat and took a calming breath before speaking.

"Kirby. What is it?"

The other woman sounded a little breathless - she had insisted on walking instead of hiring a car when she went out to run a few above-intern-paygrade errands - but ultimately upbeat. Her morning was obviously going better than Fallon's was.

"Hi! I'm just finishing up here and getting ready to come back - did you eat anything, yet?"

"No," Fallon started, then quickly corrected her mistake. "I mean - no, I don't want you to bring me anything, if that was what you were leading in to."

A car horn honked in the background of the call. Kirby sighed.

"You didn't answer my question - well, you did. Sort of. I'll be back in less than ten."

Hanging up without another word, Fallon turned back to the screen and exited out of her email inbox and pulled up a new browser tab instead. Fingers still shaking from leftover adrenaline, she typed her own name into the search bar, clicked the 'news' tab, and began to scroll.

A result that hadn't been there when she'd fallen asleep well past midnight the night before caught her attention, and she glanced at the office door to ensure it was still closed before guiltily clicking on the link.

Fallon Carrington: Failing Upwards

Wincing at the title but preparing to keep reading, Fallon lurched forward to guard the screen when a knock at her office door announced that she was no longer alone.

"Come in!"

Straightening up and quickly minimizing the tab, Fallon rearranged her features into what she hoped was something neutral and unbothered just as Allison pushed the door open a crack and peeked her head inside.

"I've got a couple of manuscripts for you to sign for." She twisted more of her torso around the door like she were taking up as little room as possible, then held up a few heavy-looking envelopes. 

Beckoning her into the office with two fingers as she reached for one of her pens with her free hand, Fallon sighed tiredly and let the earlier momentary panic at getting caught melt away. It was replaced with sleepiness, though. Urgent sleepiness, in fact, her late night catching up with her all at once as Allison took the signed sheets back out into the reception area and left Fallon alone with the stack of fresh work.

She tried to focus, but the tab in the corner of her eye - shrunken down to a simple icon on her task bar - was taunting her. She knew whatever it said wouldn’t be accurate - the downside to the survival tactic of lacking public vulnerability also meant everyone else seemed to lack the cognitive dissonance to have any proper grasp on who she was as a person - but she had to know. Pushing aside the envelope she’d just unsealed, she glanced at the door - still cracked open from when Allison had come in - and then reopened the article. 

Carrington is a name that has bloomed out from the greater Atlanta area into a success story as impactful of pop culture as Kardashian or Trump over the last few generations, though just like it’s fellow categorants, has also had its fair share of painfully public failures. 

“I come bearing coffee, please hold your applause,” Kirby’s voice startled Fallon out of her silent reading as she slipped almost silently into the office. 

Scrambling to close the laptop as Kirby approached the desk, Fallon reached for one of the manuscript envelopes and held it out for the other woman to take, offering it as a distraction. Unloading the coffees and a paper bag onto the corner of the desk, the other woman knitted her brows together in thought.

"What's this?"

She reached out as if she was going to take it, but circled the desk and grabbed the top of the laptop instead, swiveling it around to look at the screen.

"Wait -" Reaching out for it in protest, Fallon groaned under her breath when Kirby harmlessly flicked her hands away and dipped down further to peer at the words on the screen, then read aloud: "Fallon Carrington - Failing Upwards."

Snorting in disbelief, Kirby shook her head and then reached for the trackpad, scrolling further down the article. Fallon's eyes flicked down to her hand and she realized she was holding her breath; the other woman's arm was nearly draped over her shoulder, close enough that they were nearly cheek to cheek.

"This is stupid," Kirby concluded, standing upright again. "Just another example of your enigma."

Feeling the corners of her mouth tug upwards involuntarily at the compliment, Fallon rolled her eyes to suppress it.

"I'm a little tired of being told who I am by other people - people who don't know me."

"As you should be," Kirby affirmed, rounding the desk again to pull the coffees from their tray one by one. "You know yourself - no one else needs to. One sugar, two ice cubes, and a half-shot of creamer."

She placed one of the paper cups in front of Fallon, pulling her attention from the screen to it, instead.

"I figured... midday lull, you'd want your chugging-temperature order instead." Smiling easily, she reached for the bag, next, and then reached inside of it to produce a mouth-wateringly fresh looking muffin. "And a muffin."

She placed it next to Fallon's coffee, then took the remaining cup for herself and nodded to the stack of manuscripts again.

"Do you want me to start on those?"

Blindly handing her the first envelope from the stack, Fallon dropped her gaze back to the muffin and cleared her throat.

“Thank you.”

Kirby shrugged, still smiling.

“I put bananas in the mini-fridge this morning, too.” 

Heading to her usual spot by the coffee table, the redhead settled in on one of the couches and got to work, leaving Fallon alone to her thoughts.

The coffee was admittedly perfect. Perhaps she wasn't as unknown to everyone as she had originally thought.

[hyp-oh-critical]

One That Got Away by Jason Ross, Dabin and Dylan Matthew

Listen on Soundcloud / Spotify

I know I talk about it too much But it's the only thing to do Tell me do you still crave my touch, Or do you long for something new?

“Hey, sorry I couldn’t answer the phone. Leave your message after the beep, otherwise ring again if it’s urgent!” 

The dull tone after her voicemail left him unsure and empty,  remunerating on words he had worked up to say but they seemed to evade his mind. His finger traced the rim of the traveller mug in his cup holder, coffee long gone but the flavour still left his mouth feeling bitter and dry. He gulped, realizing his voicemail was taking too long so with a slight cough, he composed himself yet again. 

“Hey, uh, it’s me. I hope you’re doing well… it’s been a while and I know this might sound crazy, but I still miss you. If you’re free sometime, we should—we should go out for lunch. Yeah… let me know.” 

His finger was quick to slide over the red button, ending the voicemail before he could embarrass himself any further. A huge sigh left his parted lips. Forehead propped against his steering wheel, an exasperated string of curses pieced together haphazardly as he felt his sinus tense up. Tears were welling at the brim of his eyes yet again. 

The sound of an engine starting up, snapped him out of his state of anguish. Out of habit, he turned his cheek away from being possibly spotted as the owner pulled out of their parking spot next to his own car. It was something that she hated; how he would turn away to conceal his emotions as if that would fix anything. 

Once the car had passed, his head fell back, colliding with the headrest, eliciting yet another strangled sound of desperate yearning. He wanted nothing more than to be able to go home to her, to his source of comfort. The feather-like touches and childish gleams, only the sound of hushed whispers sharing the smallest of thoughts. 

That just wasn’t reality. 'Cause I've been in a daze I can't look away, oh, from you And I can see you've changed I wonder if I've changed you too

Her beauty, her grace. She moved with the utmost precision—poised and swift yet oh-so fluid. He knew she was dedicated, evident in the hours out of her week spent in the prestigious studio. Her feet were always sore and her muscles were tense, but not once did she ever complain. It was her muse, there was nothing she would want to complain about. Her smile was still bright, even brighter with the lights centred on her as she performed, hair following her moving frame in a flurry as she spun again, and again, and again. 

He never quite understood how she was able to execute all those perfect pirouettes without getting dizzy, even going as far as to call her the human spinning top. She hated that nickname but she would smile regardless, growing fond of his teasing.

From his spot on the balcony, he could tell she had changed. She had grown out her hair for once, a nice length that reached past her collarbones, something she was never able to do before due to her impulsivity to cut her locks before they reached the desired length. 

Applauses erupted through the theatre. He blinked once, then twice, realizing her performance was over. She tiptoed to the front of the stage, presenting the crowd with her final bow. Her eyes glistened as she waved and quietly thanked the audience. He applauded as she walked off stage, afraid she would be able to pick him out from the audience had he done so earlier.

I've had too many lonely days Starin' at my phone, wishin' all this pain away I wonder if you notice, babe You're the only one that could make me feel this way

The night breeze caught his skin, leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake but he ignored the ticklish sensation, too absorbed with the bottle of warm beer in his left hand, phone in the other. He was thumbing through an old album, series of photos, goofy selfies of their usual antics and candid portraits of her from their outings. She was always insecure about how she looked, worried over what others thought of her—it was the self-deprecating dancer in her—but there was nothing to not admire about her in his eyes, so he captured all her best moments hoping to show her the collection one day. 

His finger ghosted over a video, he wanted to skip it but a huge part of him couldn’t bear to do so; curiosity too enticing to refuse. 

The screen door behind him creaked open, the stray voice of his best friend caused him to jump, phone and beer almost slipping out of his grasp, “Hey bro, we’re packing up leftovers, you want a share?”

He sighed, managing to compose himself before spilling either onto the old, wooden porch, “Uh yeah, I’ll be in to help clean up in a minute.” 

His friend hesitantly lingered, eyes peering cautiously over his shoulder to see what he had been so absorbed with. At the small glance of a familiar video they had seen one too many times, his friend simply retreated back into the house, the front door closing quietly behind him.

The video loaded and his own chuckle echoed in his ear, “What are you doing babe?”

“Stop~” she whined trying to hide her face from the camera view. “I’m breaking in the pointe shoes.”

He watched as she continued to absolutely demolish her brand new ballet slippers, stretching and bending them to ruin the material.

“Why on earth would you do that, you just got them!”

She pauses with her heel about ready to cave in her shoes from the outer arch as she peers up at the camera following her every move, “I will absolutely not be able to dance in them unless they are broken in so I can fit them. I have to do this, it’s etiquette, it’s routine.”

“How, avant-garde,” he murmurs loud enough to catch on. She emitted laughter, causing a flutter of warmth down his spine. 

He missed this...

'Cause I've been in a daze I can't look away, oh, from you And I can see you've changed I wonder if I've changed you too

Eyes locked and followed the shape of her lips, lightly dusted a hibiscus red from her chapstick, “It’s been amazing, the new company takes such great care of us. We have performances lined up practically every month. It’s exhausting but also so much fun.”

He smiled at her usual enthusiasm for her professional career in performative arts, “I’m sure it is. Out there chasing the high of performing. You are resting whenever you can, right?” 

“Of course, I started sleeping earlier and drinking less coffee,” she chuckles, a teaspoon stirring at her tea latte on the table. “We did this showcase last month…” 

Her voice trailed as he fell into thought. Was he to tell her he still attended? He still kept tabs on her performances as if they were still together. He had promised her he would be at every show and every production no matter how small the role because he knew how much effort she poured into ballet. A part of him was never able to neglect that promise despite their break-up.

“It was one of my best ones so far, I wish you were there to see it. Quinceton was there, you would have been able to meet him, we all went for a huge group dinner after!” 

The smile on his lips tightened a bit, faltering at the mention of her new boyfriend but he was quick to shake his head, “Sorry, you know how work gets sometimes, but send me the details for your next show, I’ll be there for sure.” 

Yeah, I'm selfish But I can't let you leave Yeah, baby, if it's up to me You will never be the one that got away

Originally posted to my secondary blog in November 2020. Now rewritten and published as part of my Relocated Writes Series.