#if he'd started with ''hi i'm your grandfather. i made your dad and also a part of the apollo shuttle'' then it would've been way cooler

[unknown-limes]

So my late grandfather was an engineer for a few different companies over his life, but I found out in like 2019 that he worked for NASA in the 60s. He literally invented at least one part for the Apollo shuttle that we can verify bc his name on the fucking Wikipedia page. He also just never talked about it? He died in 2016 without ever telling my brothers and I that he'd worked for NASA, I found out years later when my dad mentioned it off-hand whilst helping me with a paper for school. Why do older family members decide to never tell the youngers about the coolest things?

[queensunshinee]

I told you things || Art Donaldson x reader

Warnings: mention of a drunk driver (DON'T do that!!!), also it's kinda sad so be aware of the angst. Word Count: 2.7k

I told you things

This is a foolish event. You look at yourself in the mirror and tell yourself that all you need to do is smile, shake hands, stand beside your grandmother, and eat an oyster. Sip champagne. Get drunk on the champagne. Ignore Art Donaldson. Piece of cake. You take a deep breath and enter the hall, seeing the fancy dresses of people who were once your friends and their parents. People who are almost strangers but also so familiar. "You made it, good. Please don't slouch," your grandmother reminds you to straighten up every three minutes when she's beside you. "It’ll help you project presence," she always says. She's a powerful woman; the way she speaks and carries herself is filled with a regal and noble quality that you lack. You’re your father's daughter, and he's been denying the fact he's her son since the day he learned the meaning of the word "deny." You feel out of place, but you're standing tall, and that's all that matters to her right now.

By the tenth handshake, you've lost count. By the third glass of champagne, you've lost meaning. Because Art only looks at you when he thinks you're not looking at him. He stands in the corner with Patrick, who greeted you with his dad, but Art looked at everything in the room except you. You find yourself making small talk with Art's mom, who was always like a second mom, maybe even the first if you consider your relationship with your own mother. And she tells you how well he's doing. How successful he is at Stanford. That he’s never been this happy.

So you say you're happy for him because you really are happy for him. Everyone wants to see the people they love happy. Everyone wants to hear that they're doing well, that they've found their purpose. That they’re not wandering lost in the world. That they live in a universe full of meaning. Art Donaldson is the best you know at meaning. He decided he'd be that figure, that player everyone knows. A name mentioned at family dinners when people talk about what's new in American sports. He’ll be the one who makes dreams come true.

"(Y/N), it’s been a while since we've seen you here," one of your grandfather's friends approaches you and pulls you into a hug for no apparent reason. It’s always the same middle-aged people. Always men. Always letting themselves hold on four seconds longer than appropriate. More than socially acceptable. The only thing it made you think of is that every other time you'd encountered behavior like this, Art was beside you, pulling you away with a pretext no one could resist. You almost started crying in the middle of the hall. In the middle of a charity event. In the middle of life. Just like that, crying. Like when you were younger. When you didn’t need an excuse, when it was okay because someone would already be your advocate and say, "She's tired."

Now you're tired too, but no one finds it necessary to be your advocate. . . . Between forced smiles and small talks, you found yourself sneaking outside to smoke a cigarette, nearly ignoring everyone you once considered friends who now live in a parallel world. A world where choosing between you and Art is simple because you're far away. Because you come once a year, and Art is an inseparable part of their lives. Their smiles are apologetic when they glance at you, quickly returning to their conversations, to the laughter you used to be part of.

"It's not sexy, you know?" Patrick's voice came from behind you, laced with a hint of arrogance. He didn't see, but you definitely rolled your eyes. "I thought everything was sexy in your opinion," you shot back, not looking at him as he came close enough to light his cigarette with yours. "Except for self-pity. That's pathetic," he said, taking a deep drag. "I'm not pitying myself," you replied, too quickly for it to sound convincing. "Why didn't you say hello to anyone?" he asked, not taking his gaze off you. "I said hello to everyone." Another eye roll, this time one he could see. "Bullshit, sugar, you did a round with your grandpa and hugged old folks. You said hi to your friends' parents—that doesn’t count," he didn't let anything slip by. It was infuriating.

"It's just one night, Patrick. I won't have to see anyone here again." You said with determination, as if trying to convince yourself it was true. Both of you knew it wasn’t just one night. "And what will you do all summer? Sit in their house and cry about how awful your life is? Unbeli—" "That's enough, Patrick." Art's voice made your heart skip a beat. You hadn’t seen his face, or his curls, or his crossed arms, but you already felt panic wrapping around you. "Give us a moment," he added, still not coming closer. He didn’t stand beside you or in front of you. He stayed in his position of power. He could see you, but you couldn’t see him. You looked at Patrick as if he was the only one who could save you at that moment. You let the tightness in your throat show, and the plea in your eyes was unmistakable. You weren’t too proud to beg if it would make him stay and not leave you two alone. Patrick looked at you for another moment, showing not an ounce of mercy as he shrugged and started to walk away. Bastard. Absolute bastard. "Dickhead," you muttered, watching his clumsy steps until he disappeared from view.

Art's chuckle was faint but just loud enough to make you regret the cigarette you stepped outside to smoke. What was so urgent that you had to edge closer to death? Why couldn’t you hold back before giving in to this stupid addiction? "Want one?" Anyone else wouldn’t have noticed the slight tremor in your voice as you offered Art a cigarette. Anyone else would’ve interpreted it as confidence. He saw it for what it was, a defense. It was all you had to place between the two of you—a stretched-out hand and a pack of Winston Lights. Patrick was right. It really was all pathetic. "I don’t smoke anymore," he sighed, leaning against the makeshift railing next to you, not looking at you but straight ahead, the same way you weren't looking at him.

"That's a nice dress," he broke the silence. "Thanks, my grandma chose it," you mumbled, trying to find meaning in this conversation. A conversation with a stranger who knows all your secrets. A stranger who knows what makes you laugh and what makes you cry. A stranger who holds half of your heart in his hands. "I'm not surprised, she has good taste. She always picked the best movies and took us to the best restau-" he began, slipping into nostalgia. "I’ll suggest she divorce my grandpa because she might have a suitor," you interrupted, glancing at him just for a second to see his face fall slightly and to hear his bitter chuckle. You turned your gaze the other way, ashamed of what you'd done. That you'd knocked the wind out of him in an instant.

"How are you?" he asked. "We haven't spoken in a while." You could sense the tension in his voice. It should've made you feel better, realizing that you weren’t the only one who was anxious, that he felt bad too. But it only made you shift uncomfortably. He was supposed to be okay. He’d moved on. He wasn't there anymore. You were the only one stuck a year back. The only one who couldn’t move forward with her life. Everyone else was at a different stage. Everyone knew what they wanted, and Art was no different. More than that, Art could be the leader of those who know what they want. "Everything’s fine, you know, routine," you found yourself mumbling. "What's the routine?" he asked, this time looking at you, his voice desperate for information. For details. "You don’t want to know," you gave him a forced smile. "But I’m fine, really," you quickly added. "They covered it all up as if nothing happened, so you don't have to worry."

And again, he let out a bitter laugh, and if it made sense, he would’ve stomped his right foot and shaken you. Because you have to talk to him. Because he's to blame. You know he's to blame. He knows he's to blame. Patrick knows he's to blame. But you’re not willing to talk to him anymore. And how is it fair? That he continues as if nothing happened. As if he once dreamed of you and you’re just a character he invented to pull him out of any quicksand he stumbled into.

"I'm really sorry, Shug," he said, not knowing how much longer he could hold back the tears. Not knowing how long he could keep his composure. He hadn’t expected to see you here today, but here you are, looking so beautiful and good and distant. Keeping your distance, keeping it safe. As if you were born to protect him from the world. As if you'd always be there but would disappear the second he didn't need you anymore. And how is that fair? He asks himself over and over- how is that fucking fair?!

"Art, I chose to do this." Your voice didn’t waver as you looked at him this time. Because you truly believed it. You chose. No one forced you. You decided. "I told you to leave. I told you not to be there. I chose." You repeated it. Your gaze was piercing. His blue eyes glowed as if he were listening to a prayer. As if God were speaking to him. Last summer, you both went to a party, and Art drove drunk. He didn’t hurt anyone, but he sped and crashed into a bridge. You told him to leave before the police arrived. No one got hurt. There was no reason his entire future should be ruined. He was supposed to start at Stanford. You both were supposed to start at Stanford. He went on to college, and you started community service. And that’s fine; you convinced yourself it was completely fine because you chose it.

"Shug, what’s your routine?" he asked again, desperate for a piece of information. You hadn’t answered calls, and your grandparents had wiped you off the map. They’d cut you off from everything you knew to get their beloved granddaughter (who they’d once seen as an angel until that moment) back on track. Whatever, so you had to collect a little plastic and paper in Kentucky. So there were more racists there than you'd expected in any place. So someone once called you a "filthy Jew" for asking him not to throw his can on the ground. So what? Your grandparents had been through far worse. And they’re fine. You helped a friend, and he’s fine. You’re fine, too. Everyone knows you’re fine.

"I'm working, and this year I'll start college, so it’s like I took a gap year- no big deal." You shrugged. "Are you starting Stanford this year?" Art straightened up for a moment, the spark in his eyes rekindling. He couldn’t believe everything could just be left behind. That everything was working out like this. That he only had to wait a year, and it would all be behind you. "Oh, I gave up on Stanford. I don’t really vibe with California," you said, as if it wasn’t a big deal, as if your grandfather hadn’t tried to convince the university administration to take you back despite the criminal record. "Fuck, (Y/N)," he started pacing back and forth, unable to believe the nonchalant tone coming out of your mouth.

"Art, it’s not a big deal." You put the second cigarette in your mouth, unable to stand this conversation any longer. "How is it not a big deal? Your life was ruined," he wanted to shake you, wanted you to get mad at him. To hate him, even if just for a moment. "I lov-" "Don’t say that," you cut him off, taking a step back. "Why not, Shug? You know it’s true. You know that I-" he tried again, more determined this time. "You don’t love me. you feel guilty, but there’s no reason, Artie. Really, there isn’t," you tried to convince him. "I told you to leave. You didn’t ask. I wanted it to be exactly like this. I wanted you to go to Stanford. You dreamed of Stanford," you nodded toward him as you spoke, trying to project confidence instead of the fragility you felt inside. "We dreamed of Stanford," he stopped pacing and stood in front of you, pressing his forehead against yours.

"Tell me about Stanford," you said softly, feeling your tears well up, almost betraying you and the resolve you tried to uphold. "So many people. Most of the time, I don’t know where I fit. But Tashi’s there, Patrick’s girlfriend." He paused, taking a breath, and you could see he was fighting his own tears. "Tell me more," you asked. "The courses are hard. I’m not good at most of the subjects, not like you. I’ve never played tennis at this level." He continued, "You’d love the library. I’m lost there. No one is kind enough to help me find a book." You both chuckled, too afraid to move. "What else?" you asked, almost desperate for more details. "I ranked first at Stanford by the end of the season. Maybe next season they’ll want me to start a campaign, go pro. Nike reached out." He said, watching you, seeing your smile grow.

"That’s amazing, Art. It’s everything we wanted." And it really was everything you wanted for him. He was exceptional. You always knew he was exceptional. He’d walk into a room, and the room would skip a beat. Almost fall silent. Sometimes you wondered if it was the room or just you. "It’s not all I wanted," he returned. And you both knew what he meant. "You’re going to leave a mark on America, Donaldson. You’re going to be the biggest thing to come out of here. You’re going to change American tennis. Ten years from now, little kids will have your poster on their walls." You smiled at him, as he brushed a rough but gentle hand against your cheek, wiping away the tear that managed to escape.

"And you? Where will you be in ten years?" he asked, and in response, you pulled him into a hug. Because maybe you lost a lot over the past year, but it was worth it. You didn’t know what your dreams were, the ones you had felt so trivial and small. Like eating pineapple for dinner, learning all the lyrics to Linkin Park songs by heart, managing to read three books a week, loving Art Donaldson. While your small dreams sometimes flickered to life, Art Donaldson's dreams would change the world, and that was such a clearly humbling thought that no one would ever understand.

The sad truth is that everything you once told him about your dreams and hopes doesn’t matter anymore. Everything you shared about who you wanted to be flipped over to help him become who he wanted to be. And that’s okay. Really okay. Soon Art Donaldson would be everyone’s and no one’s at the same time, and in ten years, he would be where he was meant to be, and you would be someone he once knew, someone who told him secrets he wouldn’t remember. . . . As you walked back into the hall, leaving him behind and wondering how smudged your mascara was, you remembered to stand tall. maybe it will help a little.

Hey there, so here we are with the saddest thing I could possibly write. It's lacking any smut, so sorry for that. I guess it's the only mood I could deliver to the table LOL I'd like to hear your thoughts as always ❤️

[cursedkeyboard]

Babies shouldn't grow up ☆ Jason Todd & GN!Reader (PT.5)

What does Jason do after he tries his best and fails spectacularly to keep his nosy family away from his kid? Make sure he is still your favorite when everyone starts spoiling you rotten, of course. [PART ONE ♤ PART TWO ♤ PART THREE ♤ PART FOUR ♤ PART FIVE ♤ PART SIX]

Pairings: Platonic Jason Todd & Child GN!Reader / Batfamily & Child GN!Reader

When everything was said and done, Jason explaining why he didn't want to expose you to more dangers by introducing you but also the reason why he felt compelled to be honest with you about their identities, the bats soon started to try and bond with you

Dick was the first one, as always, and introduced himself as "little wing's one and only older brother"

You giggled when Jason groaned at that, embarrassed, and Dick took that as a win

Dick's older bro charms 1 - Bruce's gloomy dad stare 0

After getting called out by you so directly and plainly, Bruce had been awfully quiet as everyone interacted with you

It wasn't every day he got called out for the worst mistakes he comitted

But he also was still reeling at the fact that he was a damn grandfather

Steph cooed at how small you were, pointing out how even Damian was taller

Which, in Jason's opinion, was totally unfair since you were only eleven while Damian was thirteen, going on fourteen, and had been trained for along time

Also, excuse him, only he could tease you

Dick would be asking Jason one and a million questions about how he'd been taking care of you, your education, health, etc

"Of course I– You think I wouldn't send my kid to school, Grayson?"

His kid, they thought, part giddy part dumbfounded

"Woah, woah, I'm just asking! Technically you're legally dead and the little angel over here doesn't exactly look like you."

Wow, for some reason that really pissed Jason off

He tucked you under his chin, squeezing you gently as you rested your head on his collarbone

"I signed the papers. I'm not fucking dumb, Dick, I've been the legal guardian for about a year now."

At that, Steph stopped trying to take pictures of you with her eyes alone and quirked one of her eyebrows

"Legally?"

"... For the most part."

No one said anything at that, it's not like any of them really followed the law, especially not the old man behind them

You huffed in amusement at that, making Dick and Steph's hearts warm up

Damn, not even an hour into meeting you and they were already feeling those fuzzy, soft feelings in their chests

Needless to say, it wasn't a casual evening but it wasn't what Jason had been dreading, not at all

There was no screaming about him being reckless, no one tried to take you away from him, Bruce didn't even say much

Damian was still a brat and tried to pick on you, judgy little shit, only to get the nastiest clapback that made Dick choke on his spit

They all knew he was just feeling jealous, like every kid feels when a younger, cuter child shows up in the family

Boohoo, Jason thought as he watched fondly as you and Damian bickered, the demon brat was never as cute as my kid

Bruce, despite his melancholic gaze and awkward nature, managed to talk a bit to the both of you

He'd tell Jason that if you ever needed anything, to just use his credit card, no questions asked

Bruce would always be a call away and with Cass slowly taking over the mantle, he had a bit more time in his hands when the League didn't need him

He'd support the both of you to hell and back, his own way of repenting, and all he asked in return was...

For Jason to visit more

Because he was still upset about not having all of his kids home for Christmas

And bring you with him

it was high time you met everyone and became an official member of the family, he already knew exactly where your portrait would go

And despite his hesitance, you wanted to be a part of Jason's entire life, not just a hidden piece

Jason could never say no when you did a terrible impression of puppy dog eyes

So this is how it started; the start of the bats spoiling the hell out of you

After a couple of dinners together, lunch, and a tour around the manor and the batcave, seeing all of their old and new suits, ("Tell me you didnt actually wear this." "Shut it, I was a child." "I'm a child and I'd rather die than ever touch this."), with you glued to Jason's side always, packages started showing up at the doorstep

At first it'd be cute and silly things like a plush of the newest Pokémon and matching scarves for the incoming winter

Maybe even their own merch, because they're all losers deep inside

Then it was Bruce taking over any kind of expenses you and Jason had because, in his words, he wanted Jason to focus on raising you instead of worrying about rent

–Not like he wasn't already using Bruce's money to pay for everything

But he still felt begrudgingly soft at having his dad care for him and his kiddo like that, though he'd never admit it–

And then Babs and Tim upgrading the cyber security all around your block in the chance of a villain attack or any creeps following you home

From Duke and Cass asking Jason to spend time with you for some bonding time to your entire wardrobe turning into designer and your school materials updated by Wayne tech

Fuck, you even had terribly expensive yet thoughtful action figurines from your and Damian's favorite animated shows

The brat tried to hate you for ripping everyone's attention away from him, for making Bruce and Dick all... gooey, but it was hard when you had Todd's knowing eyes and a developing charm that always cracked a smile out of him

Infuriating, like father like kid

But... he liked you, quite a lot

And, throughout it all, Jason was panicking bad

Look, Jason Todd was always a jealous person by nature

He never liked his things touched, never liked sharing his interests in case someone also got interested in it, and he was particularly possessive with the few romantic partners he had

So when your attention was suddenly split among all of his family, Jason felt a little upset

It's like when a cat that usually only likes you allows other people pet it

Jason didn't quite feel betrayed but... that childish fear of not being your favorite person was very real in his head

So he upped his game

Whenever any member of his family gave you a gift, he'd get something better the next day

If they took you to a cool place, say an arcade or the mall to hang out and get to know you better

Jason was already booking tickets to go to Universal and taking you out for nightly motorcycle rides

Damian was insisting on watching the new season of your favorite show?

Next weekend he'd have prepared the living room to look like a cinema, with snacks and popcorn, for a movie marathon

Babs and Steph got you interested in makeup?

Regardless of gender identity, you know Jason would watchevery YouTube tutorial known to man about makeup so you won't have to ask the girls about it

Bruce would grow all fond of you once you got past, but did not forgive nor forget, the things he's done to Jason and started interacting more with him

So once he's talking about how he learned multiple different languages growing up, during one of the monthly family dinners, Jason would already be Googling how to learn another language fast

And god forbid Dick messed with your hair

He was not above picking a fight with Nightwing for ruining the hairstyle he spent hours doing for you

Look, Jason wouldn't be as petty as to keep you away from his family

No, in the contrary, he really, really loved watching you be coddled and loved by some of the most powerful people on earth

Getting the childhood he had so desperately wanted

It allowed that restless part of his soul to settle knowing you had them looking out for you, always

But Jason also would always want to be your number one

Your favorite person

Your hero

You dad

Yeah, he could admit it now without fear, he's definitely your old man

How could he not be when he's cutting apples for your school snack and making sure you go to bed before nine?

Never mind his age, Jason even bought a grill so you two could barbecue on the rooftop, there's no other more dad move than that

So, after a few months of this real life sitcom, when you were both on the couch watching Pride & Prejudice (Jason's choice tonight), all cuddled up and cozy

You'd rest your head on his shoulder and sigh happily

"You don't need to do all this, you know?"

"Hm? Do what, kiddo?"

"Trying to one up everyone. It's funny and I'm not exactly opposed to being spoiled as hell–"

"You're such a brat."

"Shut up– but you'll always be my favorite, you know that, dad."

Oh.

Oh.

Ok. Wow. He was tearing up.

"Oh, fuck off, don't do this to me."

His voice would be a little wobbly as he hid his face in your hair, squeezing you gently in his arms

And you'd giggle and hug him tighter too, your face warming up nervously but no longer afraid of muttering that one little word that had been stuck in your throat for so long

You two were so, so similar in that regard, afraid of overstepping despite the bubbling emotions inside you, the overflowing love threatening to spill out

So much faith and trust, devotion, care, and adoration

And all it took was one sentence to make it all better

"I still wanna go to the convention next week, though."

And Jason would laugh, teary and almost breathless, and press a kiss to your forehead, feeling happier than he's ever felt

"Yeah, okay, you nerd."

Wonder who you got it from

That night solidified it for him, calming his anxieties and petty jealousy

Jason would always be your favorite person

And you wouldalways be his favorite little one

Nothing would ever change that

To be continued... for one last time.

[dwobbitfromtheshire]

Stuck Between a Jock and a Metalhead

Summary: Nancy, on a whim, decides to visit Steve at Scoops Ahoy, which leads to her overhearing confessions from Steve that leads her to think about the decisions she's made. A few days later, she decides to come back. She finds him being hit on by the town freak. What's a girl to do? Oh, get stuck in a freezer with the both of them.

TW for SA. Steve was violated, too. He deserves to have a voice, too. These guys need a lot of healing and love. They're going to get it.

Chapter One - Chapter Two - Chapter Three - Chapter Four - Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Steve’s POV

It was early in the morning on Saturday, and Steve was staring at his closet, trying to decide what to wear. He was pretty sure that Eddie was joking when he called it a date. . .hadn't he? Spending time lately with Eddie Munson and Nancy has been a surprise, but he was finding it quite enjoyable. He was definitely still in love with her, but he was also starting to have feelings for Eddie. It didn't take the kiss to realize that, but it definitely helped. He and Eddie hadn't really talked about it, nor had he talked about it with Nancy. It had been a vulnerable moment for Eddie as he thought he was dying, and Steve wasn't sure how to approach the subject. He wasn't sure how to even deal with his feelings for two people, and he couldn't help but wonder if this is how Nancy felt struggling with her feelings for two people had gone. . .if Nancy had feelings for him at all. If only there was a way for him to date both of them and for them both to be okay with it.

"This is crazy," Steve muttered.

After what seemed like forever, Steve decided on a striped red and blue polo. He straightened the red collar and stared at the lip gloss sitting on his dresser. He debated with himself and finally decided on wearing it. They've seen him in Scoops Ahoy before wearing lip gloss. He puckered his lips and started putting it on, trying not to think about smearing it across Eddie's mouth with his own. Steve stood back and started doing a slow turn in front of the mirror. Were his jeans tight enough? Maybe they were too tight? Or too loose? Steve slapped his own ass. No, just loose enough. Steve winked at himself in the mirror and shot himself finger guns.

"You got this," Steve whispered, and then he deflated. "This is not a date. Stop acting like it's a date."

A loud knock on the front startled him, and he headed downstairs. He told them where to meet, right? When he opened the door, Hopper was standing on his doorstep.

"Hey, kid, I'm not interrupting anything, am I?" Hopper asked.

"No, I'm not heading out until later," Steve said and stepped aside. "Come on in. I made coffee not too long ago. Would you like a cup?"

Hopper shut the door behind him and smiled.

"That would be great. Thanks," Hopper said and followed him into the kitchen. "You got a big date later today?"

"Well, I wouldn't call it a date," Steve blushed. "I'm meeting Nancy and Eddie later to look through my grandfather's things at his old salon. Nancy wants to work on her sleuthing skills. I doubt she'll find anything newsworthy."

"Maybe not newsworthy but maybe worthy to you. What brought this on?" Hopper asked, taking a sip of the coffee Steve set in front of him.

"Well, I kind of want to go to cosmetology school to become a barber," Steve said, tapping the counter nervously.

"You would be good at that. I remember going to your grandfather's shop. He'd be the only one my dad would trust with his hair. You do remind me a lot of Otis," Hopper said.

"Really?" Steve asked.

"Yeah, he'd be proud of you," he said. "And I think he would be touched that you wanted to follow in his footsteps."

"Thanks," Steve said, swallowing thickly.

"You thinking about reopening the shop?" Hopper asked.

"Well, with the mall taking up most of the businesses, I'm not sure that would be the smartest decision," Steve shrugged.

"Well, you'd be surprised with how many people loved Otis," Hopper said. "Think they'd love to go to the salon again, knowing his grandson was running it in favor of going to the mall. People used to come in from out of town to get their hair cut by him."

"Wow," Steve said. "I didn't know that. I was really little when he had to close the store."

"Well, if you need any help setting it up, I'd be happy to help out," Hopper said.

"Thanks, Hop," Steve said, smiling.

They fell into silence for a while as Hopper finished his coffee.

"I don't know if Nancy talked to you, but. . . ," he trailed off.

"She said that you needed to talk to me about something," he said.

Hopper sighed and pulled a small object out of his pocket. He placed it on the table. It was a role of film. Steve looked at him questioningly.

"I don't exactly what happened the night Barb died, but I do know that Jonathan was looking for his brother and stumbled onto your little get-together," Hopper sighed. "I also know that he took a picture of you and Nancy getting. . .close. Particularly, of Nancy taking her shirt off. I know when you found out that you tore up the photos and broke his camera, which I have to applaud you for not decking him. Turns out he kept the film strip all this time."

"He kept it?" Steve asked softly.

"Nancy found it when she went to pick up her things," Hopper said.

"She didn't say. . .was she okay?" He asked.

"She was a little shaken up. She was probably trying to prepare herself to talk to you about it," he said. "I'm going to ask you the same thing that I asked Nancy. Do you want to press charges against Jonathan?"

"Charges?"

"For violating your privacy, harassment, stalking, and trespassing," Hopper said.

"What did Nancy say?" Steve asked.

"I'm not going to tell you until you tell me your answer," he said. "What do you want to do?"

His stomach churned as it did the same damn day he saw those photos. He remembered seeing them for the first time, and he couldn't help but hate the guy who took them. He remembered how worried he had been at the idea of Nancy seeing them. While over eager sometimes, he always made sure that his sexual partners felt safe and comfortable with him. . .to think that someone did something like what Jonathan had done. . .to make Nancy not feel safe doing that when she clearly wanted to. . . Well, it pissed him off. Jonathan had come into his backyard and took a picture of something that was supposed to be private. Not to mention that he saw Barb sitting there looking all sad and lonely, then left without asking if she was okay, but he made sure to take her photo. Both Steve and Nancy had thought she had gone home. . .Jonathan had been the last one to see her alive. He could have done anything and maybe the demogorgon. . . No, it would have taken him as well or killed him. He took Nancy's photo without her permission and Barb's photo because. . .what?. . . He thought they were saying something? He also knew that Jonathan probably still meant something to Nancy, that he definitely still meant something to Joyce and Will. He liked them both.

"No, I don't want to press charges," Steve sighed heavily.

"What do you want to do then?" Hopper asked.

"Chuck this fucking film role at his head for starters," Steve said and Hopper laughed.

"It's exactly what Nancy did," Hopper said. "It's alright if you're angry with him. You're allowed to feel all that and let it out in a healthy way. Don't learn from me. I've kept so many things bottled up until it's stormed out of me. Release a little bit of a time, and it won't break the glass. Getting angry doesn't mean you're anything like your dad. You have every right to be hurt by what Jonathan did."

"You keep saying that you don't give good advice, but that seemed pretty good to me," Steve sniffed.

"It was a rare moment, probably won't happen again," Hopper said, and Steve laughed. "Come here, kid."

He pulled Steve into a hug, and for the first time in a while, Steve realized that this was what it was supposed to feel like to have a dad. Steve pulled back from the hug, wiping his eyes.

"You need me to stick around?" Hopper asked.

"No, I just . . . Need time to myself. I need to think," Steve said softly.

"I get it," Hopper said. "You know where to find me if you need me, kid. I'm here. I'll get someone to dispose of the negatives."

Steve nearly bit his tongue to stop himself from saying 'thanks, dad', but he managed, and then Hopper was gone. He stood in the entryway for a while, just staring at the wall as his mind went blank. He slowly walked up the stairs to his room and stared at it from the doorway. He glanced at the plaid walls and the plaid curtains as well as the plaid blanket on his bed. Whenever his parents were gone, like they were now, Steve always felt much safer with them out of the house. He felt like he could breathe again. His parents didn't like clutter. They liked everything orderly, just another way of letting people know that they're better than other people, especially Steve. At the same time, it was also another way of hiding their differences like their freak of a son who wasn't allowed to have the things that mattered to him. He kept them tucked away in a box so his parents wouldn't give them away. They loved to give away stuff for 'charity' to make themselves look good. They especially loved using his stuff. So when they were gone, he would pull his things out and set them up. He felt safer when they were up, but he had yet to pull them out, and looking around the room, he suddenly felt overwhelmed. He wanted Nancy to feel safe with him that night, and it failed to happen for both of them.

Barb had died that night while they were together, and a part of him would always feel guilty about that. He also knows that him and Nancy weren't doing anything wrong. They both wanted to be with each other that night, Steve had made sure that it was what Nancy wanted as well. If he learned anything from his parents' relationship, it's what not to do. Steve wandered over to the window, the very window that Jonathan had taken a picture of, and stared down at the pool. It felt like it was taunting him. The only time he had ever really felt safe here was when his grandfather lived here for a while, then when he had become friends with Tommy, and then Nancy came into his life. When she was there, it felt like nothing could go wrong, and then shit had hit the fan. His heart got broken, and the kids came tumbling into his life as well as his house. All these people. . .they had made it a home because that's what they were. . . Not the house itself. No matter where he went, they would follow him nestled safe inside his heart, and he could turn anything into a home. . .except for this house. Suddenly, he knew that he couldn't stay here anymore. He had to find another place to live. It was the final nail in the coffin.

"Fuck you!" Steve screamed, tired of holding it all in. . .tired of trying to remain 'perfect'.

He grabbed the flimsy, shitty curtains and tore them down. He ripped them in half easily. Stupid, ugly cheap curtains. He stared at the red car poster hanging in his room, the only thing his parents let him keep, and then his eyes landed on his bat. He picked it up and swung. It hid the picture, the glass breaking as the nails pierced it. The picture clattered to the floor. He turned to the haunted window and swung again. The glass flew outward as his bat went through the window. He stared at the plaid walls and let out a yell as he hit it with his bat, careful to avoid the studs. He hit the ugly wallpaper over and over again until he accidentally hit a stud, and his bat got stuck.

He slid to the floor, tired, and stared at the destruction he had caused. He started to laugh until his laughter turned into tears, and then he was just crying as he thought about the night that led to the downfall of his relationship with Nancy. He thought about Barb and how he wished desperately that she was here, that he could get to know her. He wished that Jonathan hadn't been in those woods, that he didn't have a reason, too. He wished that the Upside Down didn't exist, and he could still have all of the important people in his life. He wished his grandparents were still alive so he could have parents who loved him. He wished his parents were different. He wished for so many things, but most importantly, he wished people could see him for who he truly is. . . The person he always tried to be.

Steve cried so hard that he knelt on the floor with his head in between in his knees as he released all of his pain, his anger, and his sadness. He released everything, including the contents of his stomach, all over the floor. He wiped his mouth and didn't bother cleaning up the room. He moved his boxes and clothes into the guest room, leaving everything in his former room just the way it was. He made sure to grab the bat, though. He changed clothes and brushed his teeth but didn't bother reapplying his lip gloss. He put on his comfort sweater and ate some toast. As he munched on his toast and drank some water to rehydrate, he wondered how Nancy had handled it. He sighed. He needed to see Nancy. He wasn't going to push her to talk, but he kind of needed at least talk to her about it.

He played soothing music as he drove to Nancy's, and he realized he hadn't called first. Shit. Oh, well. He pulled into the driveway and walked up to the front door. After he knocked, Steve was relieved to see that Nancy had answered the door first.

"Hey, I thought we weren't meeting at the Salon until later?" Nancy asked.

"Uh, something came up. I wanted to talk to you about it. Do you want to go to the quarry?" Steve asked.

"Sure, let me get my purse," Nancy said.

The drive to the quarry was silent, as was the walk down to the bottom. They sat on a small patch of earth, took off their shoes as well as their socks, and put their feet in the water.

"Hopper came to see me this morning," Steve said.

"He told you about the film strips," Nancy stated.

"Yeah," Steve said softly and paused.

"You don't have to talk about it if you're not ready," Nancy said gently.

"I don't know, I think I might have overreacted. I just stared at my room, at the window, and just started hitting everything in the room with the bat. I lost it, then I started laughing and then I cried. I cried so hard I threw up. I don't know, it was like on top of everything in that house that happened to me. . . To us. . .it was just too much. Either that, or I really am crazy," Steve said.

"Steve Harrington, you have every right to feel the way that you do," Nancy said. "You're not crazy for finally letting it all in. You've held in so much for so many years. At first, I was just mind of numb. I was in shock. I kind of let everything in that I had been ignoring and pushing away. I told myself that it wasn't that, not compared to what happened to Barb. When I got home and took a nap with Holly, it helped to know she was there. Yet later that night, I woke up in the middle of the night from yet another nightmare about Barb, and I puked my guts out. We've been holding it all in, don't you think it's time we feel it?"

"Yeah. . .it's just . . . It was you he took a picture of, Nancy. Do I even have a right to feel this way?" He asked softly.

"It was your house. . .your room. I was taking my shirt off to sleep with you. It was our intimate moment, and he violated that moment for both of us. You have every right to feel that way, just as much as I do," Nancy said.

"I can't believe he kept it," Steve said.

"He said he forgot it was there, which might be the case, but it still makes me feel weird," Nancy said, rolling her eyes.

"I'm not sure if I'm ever going to be able to like the guy, Nance," Steve admitted honestly.

"And that's okay, too. You don't have to like him just for my sake," Nancy said. "It was really sweet that you tried to."

"I really wanted that moment to be special for us, Nancy. It meant something to me that you wanted to be with me like that. I want you to know that," Steve said softly.

"It meant something to me too," Nancy said sweetly.

"Do you think I overreacted?" He asked.

"You reacted exactly the way you felt you were supposed to when something like this happens," Nancy said. "You just need to let it in. We both do. Feel it now and forgive him later. . .not for him but for us."

Nancy put her arm through his and leaned her head against his shoulder. Steve stared at the rippling water ahead of them. It really was beautiful out here.

"Do you think that one day we're going to think about what we did that night without thinking about what else happened then, too?" Steve asked.

"No, I think we're always going to remember, but I do think, I hope that we can finally stop being scared of the intimacy we shared that night," Nancy said softly. "It was never a mistake. . . Steve?"

"Yeah?"

"I never apologized for calling you bullshit. . .for putting the blame all on you," Nancy said. "You didn't deserve that. You weren't a shitty boyfriend either. You were the perfect first boyfriend and I fucked it all up. Don't say it was okay, either."

"It wasn't okay, but neither was what happened that night. After spending time apart, we both had time to think. I think I forgave you the moment you walked back into my life, Nancy Wheeler," Steve said.

Nancy opened her mouth to say something else but closed it again. He kissed her forehead. Steve sighed and leaned his head against hers. He felt closer to her than he ever had before. Maybe it was going to be different this time.

Chapter Seven

[pkmnprideflags]

Everything We Know About the Protags' and Rivals' Families

Red/Leaf

Their mother is probably the Pokémom we know the least about. She only ever talks about worrying for her child, and doesn't seem to have any hobbies or anything noteworthy about her. I'm glad that the later games have started giving the moms more personality.

As for their dad, the only reference to him is in the Celadon Department Store. Upon looking at one of the TVs, the protag will say, "A sports game! Dad'll like that!" So we know that their father is a fan of sports, and has enough of a connection with their child for them to know that.

Blue Oak

Of course, he has a grandfather (er, what was his name again?), and that grandfather has a cousin named Samson who lives in Alola. He also has an older sister, Daisy, who has allegedly competed in Pokémon Contests in the past according to a Pokémon Journal in the Sevii Islands. This means she must have traveled to either Hoenn or Sinnoh at some point, probably during her childhood or adolescence. We know nothing about Blue & Daisy's parents.

Ethan/Kris/Lyra (as protag)

This Pokémom still doesn't have much going on outside of talking to other women in town and apparently enjoying cooking, but she does at least assist by managing her child's money. In retrospect, an eleven-year-old in real life probably should not be trusted with all that money, so good idea. Too bad she also seems irresponsible with money, buying things with her child's money without asking them. Sometimes those purchases are helpful, sometimes they're not. Either way, you should get permission first, ma'am.

As far as I can remember, their father is never mentioned.

Ethan/Lyra (as friend)

They live with their father in New Bark Town; as far as I know, their mother is never mentioned. Their grandparents are the Day Care Couple that lives south of Goldenrod City.

Silver

We all know by now that Silver's father is Giovanni. According to the Celebi event, father and son parted ways three years before GSC on Route 22, with Giovanni heading towards the Pokémon League and Silver heading back, presumably to Viridian. If we assume that he is the standard protag/rival age of 11, then he seperated from Giovanni at the age of eight. When he shows up in New Bark Town, he lowkey seems to be homeless. I'm not sure how an eight-year-old without Pokémon would have made it over to Johto alone. The most likely people to help him would be Team Rocket, but he's stubborn enough that he'd probably reject their help. Did he climb through or trek around Mt. Silver?

Despite the many fan theories, the identity of Silver's mother has never been discussed in the games.

May/Brendan (as protag)

A protagonist with two visible parents?! Impossible. But yes, Norman and his wife are still together. In Ruby and Sapphire, your mother specifically mentions that your family moved from Johto; curiously though, that dialogue was changed in Emerald to just say "another region." Later in B2W2's World Tournament, Norman specifically says he is from Olivine City.

The only references to their parents' lives before comes in ORAS, when the mother mentions that she and Norman watched the Litleonids the last time they occurred. Awwww.

May/Brendan (as rival)

They live with their parents, Professor and Mrs. Birch, in Littleroot Town. In Emerald only, they also have a younger brother. Prof. Birch seems to have a very close relationship with their child, though since they're often involved in fieldwork they may not get to see their mother much. Interestingly, Birch and Norman have supposedly been friends "since their school days." That means either Norman had gone to school in Hoenn before moving to Olivine, or Birch went to school in Johto.

Wally

We actually know a lot about Wally's family since it's part of the plot of RSE. He lives with his parents in Petalburg City, who are understandably protective of his health. He later moves to Verdanturf to live with his aunt, uncle, and cousin Wanda. Not much is known about them, other than that Wanda is romantically involved with a guy from Rustboro.

Lucas/Dawn (as protag)

They live in Twinleaf Town with their mother, the Contest star Johanna. She gets out of the house more, both for Contests and to observe her child's success in the Battle Zone.

There are two references to the player's father, and both occur in Platinum. Johanna says that her child reminds him of him and that the two of them "are so alike." Later when met at the Battle Frontier, Palmer will note that he was a friend and rival to their father, similar to how they are now with Barry. Notably, in a very early beta of Diamond & Pearl, the player's father was going to appear early in the game. I don't speak Japanese, but based on the screenshots I'm guessing he was going to be involved in the player's first Pokémon encounter.

Lucas/Dawn (as friend)

They live in Sandgem Town with their father, grandfather, and little sister. Their father works as an assistant to Professor Rowan; nothing about their mother is known. Their sister watches TV a lot, and therefore often hears about swarms occurring in Sinnoh.

Barry

He lives in Twinleaf Town with his mother, while his father Palmer works at the Sinnoh Battle Frontier. Both parents seem to care for their son, but I honestly can't remember them ever talking to or about each other, so I don't know what their relationship status is.

Hilbert/Hilda

The Pokémom of Nuvema Town is said to have been a Trainer herself when she was younger. However, now she mostly stays at home, only departing to give the player the running shoes. In B2W2 she behaves similarly to Red's mother, saying she kind of wants to go out and find her child, but would feel bad if they stopped by while she was gone. Which makes me wonder: does her kid not still have their Xtransceiver? Why can't she just...call them like a normal person?

Their father is referenced by their mother when she says that they met each other on their own Pokémon journeys. Aw, young love. No hints to their current relationship status, though.

Cheren

Cheren lives with his parents in Nuvema Town. I don't remember anything of note about them.

Bianca

Bianca lives with her parents in Nuvema Town, and we all remember how her father acts at the beginning of the games. I don't recall her mother's reaction; apparently she was the one to tell him that Bianca made it to Nimbasa City, so maybe that indicates that Bianca trusts her slightly more.

Nate/Rosa

This is definitely one of the cooler Pokémoms. She is an old friend of Professor Juniper, and used to work in Pokémon Centers (specifically implied to be the ones in Nimbasa and Mistralton). She's knowledgeable about the many locations in Unova, and supports her child by providing information.

Bulbapedia claims that there are references to their dad in the games, but a search of relevant pages has turned up no references.

Hugh

Hugh lives with his mother, father, and younger sister in Aspertia City. His father has the sprite of a Black Belt, and his mother has the sprite of a Nursery Aide, which is a cute pairing. Hugh also mentions that he has a deceased grandfather, who caught his little sister's Purrloin. Hugh is very protective of his sister; overall this is a cute little family.

Calem/Serena (as protag)

They live with their mother, Grace, in Vaniville Town. The two recently moved to the town, but it's unclear if they are from another region entirely, or just a different town in Kalos. Regardless, Grace is known for being a Rhyhorn racer.

The only mention of the player's father is in a story Grace tells about one of her races. She lost control of her Rhyhorn at the finish line, where he was waiting, and she "sent him flying."

Calem/Serena (as rival)

They also live with their mother in Vaniville Town. It's mentioned that both of their parents are renowned Pokémon battlers, which is cool. Otherwise, their father is never mentioned.

Shauna & Tierno

Strangely, we know nothing about these two's families. Shauna seems to live in or near Vaniville Town since she hangs out there a lot, but she doesn't have a house there. Tierno hangs around Coumarine City a lot during postgame, so maybe he's supposed to be from there? But we know nothing about their family lives.

Trevor

Trevor lives with his sister in Lumiose City. Apparently his mother and father are currently traveling the world to train their Pokémon. The world of this game series just seems very chill about family relations, and treats it as socially acceptable to leave your family to take a journey. I suppose they appreciate long-distance relationships or just don't value family that much.

Selene/Elio

They live with their mother on the outskirts of Hau'oli City. Their family was originally from the Kanto region, and the player's mother was once a renowned Meowth trainer, earning the nickname of the "Scratch Cat Girl." She's even seen at the end of the game battling the Masked Royal.

Apparently she is still married to the player's father, who still lives in Kanto. The two keep in touch by sending each other letters.

Hau

Hau lives with his grandfather Hala in Iki Town. He mentions his mother several times, saying he enjoys her cooking; she is not confirmed to be present in the games, but there is a female NPC randomly placed inside Hala's house that some assume to be Hau's mother. His father is traveling on a journey in another region (implied to be Kanto).

Gladion

We all know this by now - used to live with Lusamine, Mohn, and Lillie; then Mohn disappeared, Gladion ran away with Type: Null, and Nebby teleported Lillie to Route 1. An Aether Paradise NPC also notes that Lusamine's father (so Gladion's grandfather) was a wealthy man who loved Pokémon, and he was the one who built the Foundation.

Chase/Elaine

They live with their mother in Pallet Town. Like Red & Leaf's mother, this Pokémom doesn't have a whole lot going on. Bulbapedia says that they have a referenced father; I'm guessing it's that same dialogue in the Department Store from the other Gens.

Trace

Since he's no longer Professor Oak's grandson, Trace seems to only live with his sister. Perhaps another Trevor situation?

Victor/Gloria

They seem to have always lived in Postwick with their mum. She doesn't have a whole lot going on, and the only reference to their father is the statement that the player's bag is a hand-me-down from him.

Hop

Hop lives in Postwick with his parents and grandparents, and Leon used to live there before going off to be a champion and whatnot.

Marnie

Her parents are never mentioned; she seems to live with Piers.

Bede

Bede was apparently raised in an orphanage, so the identity of his parents are unknown.

Rei

Both as the protagonist and as the rival, their family situations are unknown.

Akari

As the protagonist, her family situation is unknown. As the rival, she mentions wanting to send a photo to her parents and brag about her work with the player in the Survey Corps.

Juliana/Florian

They recently moved to Cabo Poco with their mother from a different region. It's implied they may be from Galar, as the mother has a Skwovet and uses the term "cuppa" when talking to Clavell. Their father is never mentioned.

Nemona

Nemona's father, mother, and sister live in Cabo Poco. They moved to the Paldea region when Nemona was seven; their original region is unknown. Nemona's father is on the board of the Rotom Phone company, so they have a decent amount of wealth.

Because I'm a nerd, let's finish with some stats:

Characters confirmed to have both parents currently alive: 16 out of 34

Characters who live with both of their parents: 8 out of 34

Characters who live with their mother: 22 out of 34

Characters who live with their father: 12 out of 34

Characters with at least one living grandparent: 5 out of 34

Characters with siblings: 10 out of 32

[stargazer-sims]

Grandpa’s Advice

Nikolai made his way down the road from Stan and Milena’s house to Windward Shore Estates, where he’s having coffee and cake and a much-needed talk with his grandfather in the community’s shared back garden.

Grandpa: So that’s the latest, is it? Little Mishka wants a baby?

Nikolai: He loves that you call him ‘little Mishka’, you know. He says it makes him feel cute.

Grandpa: See, that’s why I love him. One of the reasons, anyway. Absolute giant who looks like he could take out a bear with one good punch, and yet his big preoccupation is with being cute. Not a shred of that toxic masculinity the young people are always talking about. You have to admire that.

Nikolai: I do admire it, actually. Not to be one of those annoying people who can’t stop bragging about their spouse, but he’s the sweetest, most gentle person I’ve ever known. And he is cute.

Grandpa: It’s never annoying to praise your spouse, Kolya. I might’ve stayed married and managed to keep my daughters in my life if I’d learned that sooner, among other things. You go ahead and talk up that man of yours as much as you want. I'll never complain.

Nikolai: Thanks, Grandpa.

Grandpa: You're welcome. Now, about this baby—

Nikolai: Yeah, about that. Mishka really wants us to grow our family, but I don’t know what to do, and it’s stressing me out a little.

Grandpa: More than a little, unless I miss my guess.

Nikolai: Okay, a lot. And nobody’s taking me seriously.

Grandpa: Nobody?

Nikolai: Uncle Stan. I told him when I was over there this morning, and he laughed.

Grandpa: In that case, ‘nobody’ seems accurate.

Nikolai: Grandpa!

Grandpa: My advice is to pay no attention to anybody who laughs at you when you’re being serious. Now, listen to me for a minute. You said Mishka wants a baby, but before you start trying to decide what to do about it, perhaps the first question you should be asking yourself is whether or not you want a baby.

Nikolai: I think I do. No… I do, but the idea of having a baby isn’t the problem. It’s how we’re going to have him.

Grandpa: What do you mean? Mishka’s adopted, isn’t he? I assume he’d want to adopt too.

Nikolai: He doesn’t want to adopt. Not as a first option, at least.

Grandpa : Oh?

Nikolai: He wants to have a science baby. That’s what Stan was laughing about. I think the mental image of pregnant men was too much for him. Either that, or he thinks it isn’t even real.

Grandpa: A science baby?

Nikolai: Yeah. It’s a real thing. Look, they have a website. Let me show you.

Grandpa: No need to show me. I know it’s real. know all about it.

Nikolai: Really?

Grandpa: It's a brilliant feat of bio-engineering, especially the extracorporeal gestation.

Nikolai: You know about that?

Grandpa: Biochemist, remember? I may be retired, but old chemists never die.

Nikolai: They just stop reacting.

Grandpa:*laughing* Glad to see you were paying attention back in the day when I was learning the concept of dad jokes.

Nikolai: That one is old, Grandpa. But you're not, obviously, since you're clearly still reacting.

Grandpa: I'd have to be literally dead not to react to the possibility of a great-grandchild.

Nikolai: Fair point.

Grandpa: So, which way does Mishka want to go with the science baby process?

Nikolai: I'm not sure he knows. He's just as fascinated with the whole science lab baby situation as you are, but somehow I get the feeling he'd like to actually, you know... carry it himself.

Grandpa: And you're uncomfortable with that.

Nikolai: Wouldn't you be?

Grandpa: Me personally? No, but I suppose my comfort level would also depend on my partner.

Nikolai: Well, my partner is delicate.

Grandpa: *nodding* Not a word i imagine most people would apply to him, but I can see that, yes.

Nikolai: He hates being sick, and his pain tolerance is practically non-existent, and he gets anxious about everything. I'm really worried it'd be too much for him. Besides, the thought of him being sick or in pain is like... Every time I think about it, it's like somebody's squeezing my heart in their fist.

Grandpa: Mishka might end up surprising you. It's amazing what people will put themselves through to have a child.

Nikolai: But... I don't want him to have to put himself through anything like that. Plus, I read on the website that there are risks. What if something went wrong?

Grandpa: You don't gain anything if you don't take risks. Isn't that something that old crank Stan always used to tell you?

Nikolai: That 'old crank' is younger than you.

Grandpa: Age is a state of mind. Anyway, I don't think he's wrong about the risk-taking, even if I'm annoyed at him for laughing at you.

Nikolai: Grandpa, this isn't a skating competition. It was one thing to take risks on the ice that only affected me in the end, but I'm not willing to take risks with the man I love or our possible future baby. But, on the other hand, I don't want to tell Mishka we can't do it, just because I'm scared.

Grandpa: You'll have to make up your mind sooner rather than later. I don't know if there's an age cut-off for the process, but didn't Mishka turn thirty-six back in February?

Nikolai: Yeah, and I know I need to make a decision soon, but I want to make the right decision, and... I don't know what that is.

Grandpa: I'll tell you my opinion, for what it's worth.

Nikolai: Please, tell me. What would you do if you were me?

Grandpa: If I were you, and you're really serious about having a child, I'd try to steer Mishka in the direction of extracorporeal gestion. The 'science lab baby situation' as you put it.

Nikolai: Okay, but why? Mishka's going to ask, and I'll have to be able to explain it to him.

Grandpa: Because it eliminates almost all the things you're worried about. Little Mishka wouldn't have to risk his heath or be in any pain, and you wouldn't have to stress yourself out about anything happening to him or the baby. Not to mention, lab babies grow in a completely clean and controlled environment, so the risk to them is extremely low, and the failure rate is less than two percent, last I read. So, you do all the initial screening and sample collection and whatnot, let the scientists do their thing, and nine months later, you're parents.

Nikolai: You make it sound so easy.

Grandpa: It would be easier for the two of you, since neither of you would have to do much to make it happen, but it's definitely not an easy process.

Nikolai: I guess Mishka and I still have things to talk about and think about, don't we?

Grandpa: I'd say you do.

Nikolai: This is a lot.

Grandpa: It is, but most couples go through something like this when they’re planning their family, so it’s nothing new.

Nikolai: Yeah, but it’s all new to us.

Grandpa: Can I make another suggestion?

Nikolai: Sure. What is it?

Grandpa: You and Mishka might want to arrange a consultation at the clinic where they do the procedure. Information on a website is fine, but there’s nothing like being able to talk to somebody and ask questions face to face.

Nikolai: Yeah. You know, I think I might feel better if we could do that.

Grandpa: If Mishka can cope with being in a room full of strangers, maybe try to get in on one of their group information sessions too.

Nikolai: Okay.

Grandpa: I know this a big, serious thing for both of you, but I believe in you. You’ll figure it out.

Nikolai: Thanks, Grandpa. You've helped a lot.

Grandpa: What are grandpas for, if not to help out their favourite grandsons with their stranger-than-fiction problems?

Nikolai: You're the most awesome grandpa ever.

Grandpa: Awesomeness is in our genes. That's why you're so outstanding. Best grandson ever, I'd say.

Nikolai: Until the great-grandchild comes along?

Grandpa: Oh, I'm sure I'll fall in love with them on sight, but you're always going to be my favourite.

Nikolai: You'd better not let Natascha find out.

Grandpa: I don't think it's a secret at this point, do you?

Nikolai: *laughing* No, probably not.

Grandpa: I love your sister just as much as I love you. That's what matters.

Nikolai: I love you, too.

Grandpa: Good luck with your decision.

Nikolai: Thanks. I'll keep you updated, okay?

Grandpa: I'd appreciate that.

Nikolai: Consider it done, then. I've got to go now. I have to pick up Mishka from his language class and then we're heading to the airport to meet Sam, but I'll call you later, all right? You can fill me in on all the latest Windward Shore gossip and tell me how your search for a roommate’s been going.

Grandpa: Be prepared for a long phone call.

Nikolai: I’ll be looking forward to it.

[luverofralts]

Arkhelios Adventures

"I'm so glad that you could meet with me today. I've been looking forward to getting to know you better."

Ewan G Maricourt calmly sat beside the son he had just recently been informed was his. Ewan MacLeod had reluctantly accepted a quick visit with his father, even though magic still made him uneasy. Magic appeared to be everything to his father, though, so a relationship with him likely meant a relationship with some degree of magic.

If a relationship was even what he wanted from his father. Most days, Ewan wasn't sure. His half-siblings looked happy enough with him in their lives, but they also were magic users. Ewan was decidedly not interested in magic, nor was he aware that he even had the potential to cast magic.

"You have plenty of potential if you did want to study here," Ewan Maricourt announced, like he'd been somehow reading his son's mind. "Your tuition could even be covered as my son. That is if your mother agrees. Have you had any discussions with her about our...connection? Truthfully, I don't remember much about her magical inclinations. Our relationship was brief."

Brief? The younger Ewan was surprised that his father could even remember his mother. From what she said, their "relationship" was nothing more than a few ill-advised hookups.

"I don't think she has any interest in magic. She always says that you can't trust a warlock. That his first allegiance is to himself and then his coven and then finally to those who love him. I don't think I can even do magic if she wanted me to."

"My own mothers were hard on me," Ewan Sr scoffed. "They pushed me to greatness because they knew that I had the potential. Both of my great-grandfathers were kings, and my- our lineage is filled with great warlocks and witches. We descend from the main Maricourt lineage. Not the 'preferred' lineage our queen comes from, but a powerful one nonetheless."

"So you're saying that I might be able to do magic like your kids because of my ancestors?"

"You are my kid," Ewan Sr corrected. "But yes, magical power is generally passed in the blood. It's what makes the study of blood magic dangerous. At the same time though, magic exists everywhere, in every person. If you can find a way to connect to magic on a personal level, anyone can perform it. Several students here come to us from non magical families. They can take what they've learned to those families and maybe help them find a connection of their own. We all have both life and death in us, we are all their subjects. Bloodlines do tend to foster greater magical strength, though; there is no denying that."

"Devard, I'm busy. Go hit on someone else, I have an exam to study for."

Remy pushed Devard Auvrey away from her, rejecting his advances. Devard respectfully backed off, but still voiced his objection.

"You said today you were free to hook up," he protested. "Emily's gone on a study assignment."

"Ew, are you still sleeping with her?" Remy scoffed. "She's boring. Plus, she's bad at magic. She's practically got my grade average, and I work very hard to score so low. Stupidity comes naturally to her."

"You sound jealous," Devard laughed, making Remy fume beside him. He had met Remy the first year of their studies, but she had only started giving him the time of day recently, presumably because she was trying to make her girlfriend jealous. He was the son of a famous actress and a descendant of the king of Crystal Cove, making him far better a catch than the daughter of a Strangetown cult reject and a man barely holding onto power. Remy never saw it like that, of course. In Remy's eyes, she was practically the equal of the queen of Pleasantview.

"I am not jealous of Emily," the witch fumed. "If I wasn't going to fail this exam, I would prove it to you. If I fail this exam, Dad might keep me back a year. Can you imagine the indignity of repeating a year while my siblings all make fun of me? Elowen would never let me live it down and Theo? He'd be insufferable."

"Maybe work less hard at keeping your grades low," Devard teased. "You're overachieving at being a failure."

"Yeah, yeah. I can't suddenly miraculously get better to pass just this exam without giving the game away. It's a balance of lies that sells it."

Evren stood at the door of the magical academy, trying to settle on an approach to take with his stepson. Parenting was a hard job, and parenting a young demon hybrid who was studying blood magic seemed to be nearly impossible. The problem with raising Theo with three non-magical parents was being the only parent who could understand his use of spells. There was one spell Theo had used recently that Evren didn't know how to react to.

For months now, Evren had been charming Theo's day planner and workbook with the basic spell for birth control. On top of that spell, he had placed a ward that would send him a signal when it had been cast. Well, the day had finally come and the ward had been triggered, warning him that his young stepson was sexually active.

Telling Theo's biological parents was out of the question. Roman might just die of fear and never leave his bed, while Abe might backslide in his parenting and scream at his son for making poor decisions.

Adrian usually sided with Roman, but was fiercely protective of Theo. If Evren knew his partner, Adrian would launch himself at the Darktides, using his own political power to undermine Edana's duke husband, while Edana presumably got Theo expelled from school. There wasn't a single scenario where Theo's parents reacted in a sane, rational or mature way.

Which meant that it was entirely up to Evren to be the mature, responsible parent. It also meant that Evren had to be the mature magic user where Theo's parents couldn't. He hadn't placed a ward on the spell for curiosity or to punish Theo. Theo would probably see it that way if he found out, but Evren had other motivations.

He told Theo every time they crossed paths at the school to be careful with his magic. The hybrid had already attached himself to a powerful family while also casting blood magic, unaware that that same attachment needed to be compensated for. Every teacher had been instructed by Evren to remind Theo of this fact, and to limit any blood magic homework that Theo would be tempted to finish with his boyfriend. As hard as Evren tried to show Theo where the acceptable limits for blood magic were, the more Theo seemed to ignore him. The boy was cocky and seemed to think he knew everything, just like any other teenager.

Blood magic was primal. It didn't limit itself to spells and wards. It was a consuming power that invaded the entirety of a warlock or demon's life. Ritual feasts, the act of killing or dying, and sex and childbirth all took a toll on the caster, feeding and growing their power without conscious thought. Evren was pretty sure Theo wasn't about to go on a murder spree or hold ritualized feasts, but sex was an entirely plausible thing to worry about and Evren knew better than to assume that Theo had taken this under consideration before jumping into bed with someone he was dangerously bonded to.

As soon as the ward had triggered, Evren had spent every moment he could get thinking about this problem and how to keep Theo safe without Roman either hospitalized or demanding Evren's head on a platter for keeping this fact to himself. His only help had been Adam's father, who had grasped the problem immediately and without causing a scene. Both men decided to test the connection between the two boys discreetly before moving forward. There was at least a chance that their sons were using magic responsibly and a test would prove it. Edana was also conveniently at a royal event in Twikkii Island with her husband, so if nothing happened, she would never know that a test had taken place. Ewan made sure that he would be close by in case something happened. His visit with his son had been strategically planned so he could keep a discreet eye on the demon hybrid.

"Evren! You're visiting today! Did you come with an assignment for me?"

Despina ran to Evren and engulfed him in a hug. Evren hugged her back, happy to see at least one teenager he didn't have to worry about.

"No assignments," Evren laughed. "Trust me, you'll get more than enough here without me adding more. It's great to see that you have a passion for magic; never lose that sense of wonderment and your homework will be the most interesting part of your life here."

"Can you point me in the direction of Theo?" he asked.

Despina pointed down the hall where the sound of Theo's laughter echoed off the walls. Evren sighed. Whatever he was doing, it certainly didn't sound like schoolwork. Maybe Evren didn't have to rush to assess the condition of Theo and Adam's connection if they were both goofing off instead of studying.

When Evren made it down the hall, he could see Adam hunched over a large crystal, furiously muttering commands that clearly weren't working. Theo had one hand holding his notebook, and the other watching something on his phone.

"Hi, Evren!"

Theo looked up from his "spellwork" to see his step-father watching him intently. In an instant, the phone vanished into Theo's pocket.

"Theo, Adam. How are you two?" Evren asked cautiously. He didn't want to interrupt them if they were in the middle of a spell. Considering that he was there to judge their bond in the first place, interrupting them might lead to an incident, and Evren very much wanted to avoid an incident if he could.

"Fine," Theo answered. "A bit cold, but I guess someone opened the main hall window or something. Why are you here? Is something happening?"

It was somewhat common to see Evren come and go at the school while he completed official coven business, but judging from the stern look on his face, he was here for another reason.

"I'm fine too," Adam added, jumping in before Evren could speak. "We were assigned this crystal as a class project, not that Theo's been much help. I've gotten it to glow, but it's supposed to release a special kind if energy under the right circumstance."

"Of course I've been helping," Theo snapped irritably. "It's just a dumb rock. It's never going to do anything other than glow."

Evren froze, looking at the large crystal that Adam was working with. The boy had an affinity for crystals and could likely extract the correct energy in an hour or two given the chance. He was truly talented.

But that was what was dangerous. Whoever had assigned Theo and Adam this project was either not paying attention or was purposely trying to trigger something dangerous. Once Adam extracted the energy from the stone, Theo's natural pull towards that energy could land them in serious trouble. It was a good thing that Evren had arrived when he did. It looked like the faculty at this school listened to Evren's warnings in the exact same way that Theo did.

"Hmm, what about a new approach?" Evren suggested, trying to suppress his worry, but seeing an opportunity. "Theo, why don't you summon some small amount of energy and then get Adam to amplify it with his own. Sometimes, adding existing energy to crystals can awaken the energy inside."

And it will be the perfect test to see how the two of you function together within the bond you share.

Nothing about this test was dangerous. It was a simple task that even child witches could perform. Master Ewan had given his consent for this test along with several others and would be able to back up Evren should anything go wrong.

"Alright, that makes sense."

Theo extended his arm, calling a small ball of energy into existence. Beside him, Adam left the crystal and cupped Theo's hand with his own.

Within seconds, the ball had doubled in size and intensity. Evren felt his body relax despite his worries. The two of them were perfectly balanced, each of them maintaining a harmonious pull on the energy at all times. There was very little left distinguishing Adam's energy from Theo's. The two were wrapped around the other's magic so completely, it was hard to imagine them eventually separating into two different people. They had been friends since the age of six, recent lovers and partners in their magical studies. They were inseparable, both physically and magically.

"Theo, it's starting to hurt," Adam muttered softly, hoping that Evren wouldn't hear. "Theo, let go."

Adam tried jerking his hand away from Theo's, but it wouldn't move. The light was intensifying, growing more and more powerful with every second. Theo didn't respond to him. He kept their hands locked together, unable to move.

"Theo, stop! You're hurting my hands!"

Adam shouted at his boyfriend, despite wanting to keep his failure to maintain the spell a secret. His hand was burning now, and pain inflamed the nerves that ran down his arm. He was on fire, burning from the inside out.

Beside him, Theo was pulled into his dark form, only adding to the power in the room.

Brilliant light engulfed the school, suffocating the land with an unnatural brightness that was only getting stronger.

Evren stared at the sparkling light filling the room with curiosity. He had read Theo's school file a long time ago, when he had started dating Adrian. Theo had been just as much Adrian's child as his own biological girls, and Adrian had made sure that Evren understood this fact before dating him. In order to understand how to guide Theo in his magical journey, Evren had memorized everything in that file. He understood the basics of Theo's abilities and tried his best to explain them to Roman, Abe and Adrian. He was often Theo's advocate when his parents didn't understand how the magical world functioned.

This light show had been one of the first expressions of Theo's abilities. Abe had described the magic to him exactly like this. This blinding light, the eerie glow that hung in the air was demonic magic in its purest form. He had read papers that suggested that this magic often appeared in infant demons because they were newly born and still had some magic of the Life deity left in them from birth. After they experienced the cold of the Void and fed on energy for the first time, they lost the ability to access this type of magic.

How the hell was Theo still accessing Life’s magic? Demons first began as fallen servants of Life, but most of them never retained any of its power, except maybe the smallest spell of an infant. Whatever this was, Evren had not expected anything like it. At most, he had figured that maybe he'd have to sit the two teens down and shout at them to be more careful with their magic now that sex was a factor changing their connection. This? Ewan was not going to be happy about this. Evren shuddered just thinking about trying to break this news to Roman.

Sorry, Roman. Your son is sleeping with his boyfriend and that's making his magic so unstable that he's apparently doing impossible magic. I'm the one who decided to test him without asking you first because I knew that you'd blow up or self-destruct if I did.

"Theo, stop! It's hurting me!" Adam shouted again, trying to pull his arms away from his boyfriend but failing.

"I don't know how to stop," Theo whimpered. "I can't move. I'm trying to let go, it's just-"

Adam screamed as bright lines ravaged his body, taking over the visible skin and raising long welts across his face. Theo could feel the pain Adam felt just as strongly as he knew that this was all his fault. He'd messed up again and now Adam was in danger, all because he had trusted Theo.

"Adam! I'm sorry, i don't know how to stop this," Theo sobbed. "Tell me how to stop this! Evren, help!"

The familiar crackle of the Void rang through the air, illuminating whatever it touched in violent pink light. An unbearable coldness whipped around the school windows, trying as hard as it could to unite with Theo and the energy he was unleashing.

Theo's eyes were wide and terrified as he watched Adam fall to his feet, still unable to separate his and Theo's hands, screaming in agony.

"Adam, I can't let go! Please help me," Theo pleaded desperately. Adam's eyes rolled back into his head as he lost consciousness, still clinging to Theo against his will.

Evren already had his wand out at the ready. There were spells to disarm situations like this, but with a bonded pair and demonic Life magic in the mix, it was imperative that he chose the right spell. The wrong spell might only make the situation worse.

"Evren!" Ewan was already drawing power to himself, his own wand glowing dangerously. "Demonic exorcism level one. Start it now! I'll protect my son while you disarm Theo."

Evren frowned, but raised his wand as instructed. Exorcism was reserved for full demons usually, but the power radiating from Theo certaintly felt like it was comparable to a full demon. Exorcism usually returned a demon to the Void without the energy to return though. The last thing Evren wanted to do was banish his stepson to a realm he wasn't fully able to function in. He could see Ewan's plan, though. A level one exorcism started with draining demonic energy to weaken the demon enough to banish it to the Void. Draining just enough demonic magic might weaken Theo's grip on Adam enough to separate them. It would also seal the creeping expansion of the Void. Exorcism wasn't the first choice Evren would have gone with, but it was a solid plan.

"Theo, close your eyes!"

[noodleswithsoba-blog]

Earth 3329's Batman.

So, who wants to know about my Batman? I know, I know real original story ahead but here's the deal...

He's pretty different, based off the Burton movies mixed with the 2022 Batman, kind of a dark Gothic-Cyberpunk vibe. Also this is probably going to be a massive post.

"Every day I put on that suit, keep my stick at my side, and for what? Just to fall over and over. But I always get back up, because of one truth of this world... everyone needs a little hope and if I'm that hope, then it's worth every fall."

Quick Facts.

Name: Grayson Thomas Wayne.

Birthday: 10/27. (A few days before the anniversary of the start of the Long Halloween.)

Special Ability: Nine Lives. Grayson can come back to life nine times, after the ninth he has no more, however whatever killed him before is remembered and sometimes leads to resistances.

It's main weakness is the fact he remembers how he died every time, if it was particularly traumatic it'd have a deeper impact.

Hair Color: Black.

Eye Color: Green.

Relatives.

Bruce Wayne. (Father.)

Selina Kyle. (Mother.)

Richard 'Dick' Grayson. (Adoptive Older Brother.)

Jason Todd. (Adoptive Older Brother.)

Tim Drake. (Figurative Older Brother/Adoptive.)

Barbara Gordon. (Sister-in-Law.)

Damian Al Ghul/Owlman (Half-Brother.)

Relationships.

Page Monroe (Ex-Girlfriend.)

Pamela Isley (Current Girlfriend.)

Backstory.

The son of Bruce and Selina, young Grayson Thomas Wayne (Named after his big brother and paternal grandfather to highlight the expectations on his shoulders.) was born with Cerebral Palsy, which hampered his training quite a bit, but he was still eager to learn because who wouldn't when your dad is BATMAN? Of course when he became Robin he mostly stayed back with the Batmobile and helped investigate crime scenes and rarely got into fights.

Selina taught her son how to steal things on the side, definitely a mom that'd be protective but still try to have her son grow up a bit by taking on a little more at a time.

As a Robin, Bruce's rogues understood that Grayson couldn't really hurt them, but in this case he turned out to be a pretty sweet kid. Arkham was hell but at least he'd try to make things a little more comfortable for the inmates.

But there was one that didn't like the baby bat, one that wanted to play an even deadlier joke against the Bat and Cat...

The Joker. He took out one Robin, he's 1-3 on the Killed Robin board so the cute little prince of Gotham would have to do. So one night, he caused a huge crime spree, drawing away both Selina and Bruce, the fourteen year old Grayson, eager to prove himself had tracked down the Clown Prince of Crime and was just about to send the location to Oracle when he dropped off the grid.

When they found him he was barely alive, dying soon after and being buried... until he dug his way out and went to bed, scaring the daylights out of Alfred and the rest of the family.

Ever since then, the Bat-Family as well as the Wayne family imploded. Grayson could barely look at the Robin suit without flying into a panic attack, losing his desire to help Gotham. Selina thought it'd be best to divorce Bruce and get their child out of Gotham. In no small part blaming her complacency in the fact that their son had difficulties and still made him a Robin.

They moved to Seattle, Washington. Bruce slowly gave up on being Batman, Gotham slowly rotting further.

Becoming the Bat.

The matter of Grayson becoming Batman is because of a downward spiral after losing Pamela and not processing his grief well at all. While the Mission isn't as important, it all starts as an investigation into Jason Woodrue, who he was suspicious of back in Seattle, but now really wants to find out why he did that to Pamela.

It's also a culmination of all the years he's tried to run from his destiny as the next Batman, so this is all just a burden he has to bear now because he's too far in.

As we'll see with my Superman, this is the opposite of his case.

Personality.

Grayson became a very quiet young man. He could ACT like he's happy or not having issues but in a moment whoever he's hiding it from would see into him.

He very much wears his emotions on his sleeve. Even after what happened to him he still makes an effort to not let it defeat him. He's nervous in big social groups.

He's very soft spoken and doesn't like confrontation, owing to the fact that Pamela and Page were much more outspoken than him and he'd often retreat inside his own head.

But before that, he was outgoing and happy. Almost like he loved everything about being in Gotham and caring about it. Dick and Tim used to remember how eager he was to go out and help.

A lot of the Old Guard of rogues like the Penguin, the first Ivy, and Harley Quinn remember him as a sweet kid that really would get eaten up by Gotham.

He'd talk with them and of course none of them would actively try to hurt him. Mostly because Batman was nearby at all times as little Robin asked Mr. Cobblepot or Miss Ivy about how their gadgets and powers worked.

Grayson was never angry at Harley though. She wasn't there when he died and she probably wouldn't have changed Joker's mind at all. She does shove herself into his life as his 'Auntie Harley' and keeps an eye on him...

Which he finds really sweet but embarrassing because Harley tells Selina EVERYTHING about what he's doing and all that.

He absolutely adores cats, especially ones that wobble because they remind him of himself and he has a way with them because his mom does.

He and Bruce also loved listening to old radio serials like the Gray Ghost and The Shadow, so Grayson implements the tactics of The Shadow into his common Batman kit.

He'd be a drama kid if he wasn't railroaded into being Batman.

While being the Caped Crusader... Grayson is the definition of rage and efficiency. He has to be mindful of his limits and his Batsuit is armored in such a way to protect himself.

So imagine him fighting with a stick and metal claws and a whip, he's a blend of Batman and Catwoman with a bit of Nightwing.

He's also very measured and calm when not fighting. Often as to not scare civilians and unnerve villains when he's skulking towards them wanting to beat the tar out of them.

Well, that's his LAST resort. He tends to go for mind games rather than straight fisticuffs but can handle himself if desired. He doesn't have much of a Batgrowl, more like a soft, gentle monotone.

He does have a lot of gadgets in comparison to his father. Some more to make Batmanning more accessible. He does have his own Batmobile and that's pretty much it for vehicles.

His relationship with the GCPD is hostile. He doesn't care about them considering he has access to their records, and again, Babs is out of town but tries to help.

Meanwhile Gotham's falling apart at the seams by the time he returns.

As Grayson Wayne the Playboy... there isn't one. He has Ivy, or Page. He's happily partnered with either one of them and they're basically the talk of the town.

Even though he's highly introverted and his social battery is nonexistent, Pamela tends to chase them off with a glare, while Page would whip them all into an excited crowd as she regales them with glamourous tales to help Grayson get away.

Love Interests.

Back when Grayson was younger, he was a real hit with the uppercrust of Gotham, being the Prince of the City had it's benefits. Of course, there were several people who wanted to take advantage. None moreso than former actress Gloria Monroe and her daughter Page.

Gloria wanted to marry Page off to the Waynes as a backup plan if the acting didn't work out.

Of course, Page initially didn't want to be there, until she saw Grayson go into the manor's library for a little social battery recharge with his wobbly cat, Wells.

Page was a child star, a rising sensation in the entertainment world, being a riches to rags back to riches story in GOTHAM was a big deal.

But with Grayson? She had a friend who never saw the actress and saw the girl underneath. Over the next few months, she would remember every day with him fondly as she slowly began to fracture, clinging to him and wanting him to stay with her.

Until one day he broke up with her. Telling her that he was leaving Gotham. Yet she still held feelings for him, and little did she know for a while after he did too.

She has a very good memory for dates and often reminisces on the days where she was beautiful, the days where she had a wobbly cat and the heart of the Prince of Gotham.

There's a theme of getting back what you lost before with Page. Echoes of Sunset Boulevard, too. Constantly trying to stay relevant, to stay beautiful, to stay as she was before.

She's the first person the newly returned Batman saves. Page and Grayson reunite and she's on the very edge of snapping after losing a job and being rejected from new ones for not being what they wanted.

As a further partner, Page would be a pretty capable partner considering Mean Seasons, and this versions acting skills. Plus she'd appreciate her Gracey's efforts to reform Gotham with her as his spokeswoman.

She still would wear her mask if she gets overwhelmed or scared.

Pamela Isley met Grayson at a college party. Both of them being intense introverts but she was outspoken and very strong-willed. Something the quieter, softer Grayson needed help with regaining. Pamela also was a botany student, very intelligent and successful.

She was also intensely against all forms of authority, and would easily, easily be ACAB and maybe an Anarchist. Ironic considering that her boyfriend used to be a Robin.

Although nowadays Grayson would agree with her on a lot of points. She ended up radicalizing him.

Grayson steadily forgot about Gotham with her. Saw the light and saw getting better as a possibility. For himself, and to be a better man for her and his family.

However, the experiments that she was undergoing to protect the plants she loved and by extension protecting him from the wider world because he was one of the only people who saw her as more of a person other than her family killed her.

But like Grayson, Pamela rose again. Her goal is to tear down the corruption of Gotham, and make a garden in its place, to be the salvation of the planet as well as the idea of being alone with the people she loves completely safe.

Of course Dr. Woodrue's goal was to precisely make an embodiment of the Green to combat humanity's expansion and grasp immortality. And while Dr. Isley finds it cruelly ironic that her daughter went down the same road...

Pamela sees it as a new opportunity. If only she could stop thinking about Grayson and see it through to the end. She's extremely antisocial towards other people and only still loves Grayson because he respects her autonomy and adores her for who she is.

Also during parties she scares people off. As Ivy, she's a very hostile person to whoever or whatever is getting in her way, but she helps Grayson because they have a similar goal. A better Gotham.

The only reason WHY she goes to these galas is to make people wildly uncomfortable. Also picking out more targets for her partner to take down, it's a whole system.

Also she absolutely has various plant monsters throughout Gotham just waiting for a citywide threat even though Grayson harps on it.

[five-rivers]

Danny runs into his late grandfather in the Ghost Zone. His grandfather's ghost just wants to rest in peace, but he was filled with worry for his family to rest. So Danny takes him to see the Fentons and how they're doing. The grandfather is on Maddie's side of the family, and he sees how well she's doing with her husband and kids. But Danny has to be careful that his parents don't see his grandfather's ghost or they'll hunt him.

Danny had known, intellectually, that ghosts were dead people. He had, perhaps, even known it emotionally. It was hard to miss dying, that collision with mortality, hard to miss Ember, and Technus, and Poindexter, and Desiree and all the others that held onto their deaths and lives so closely, so intimately.

Still. Seeing this, Danny could still safely say that he hadn't known. Not really.

"Danny?" said the ghost, softly, as if he couldn't quite believe what he was seeing. "Is that you?"

Danny, for one, couldn't quite believe what he was seeing, either.

"Grandpa Greg?" he asked, ignoring the fact that he was in ghost form and his grandfather really shouldn't recognize him.

After all, he wasn't sure he should recognize his grandfather, either. A change in skin, hair, and eye color usually made that kind of thing difficult.

A relieved smile stretched across Grandpa's face. "It is you," he said. "I was worried... Well, never mind. How have you been?" He reached out to ruffle Danny's hair, like he always used to, and Danny let him. "What- How did you get out here?" Grandpa's face started to fall. "Why- Why are you out here, Danny? What happened to you?"

"I'm just, um," said Danny. "Exploring. Mom and Dad, they got the portal working."

"They did? That's, well, that's astonishing," said Grandpa. "I wouldn't have believed it, but then..." He trailed off. "I hardly believed it when I woke up."

Danny tensed. "Grandpa," he said, cautiously, "you do know..." He trailed off, trying to find the best way to put this. Often, ghosts weren't happy to have it brought up.

"Dead?" asked Grandpa. "Yes, I know. I..." He looked sad. "What happened to you, Danny? Did someone--"

"It's a long story," said Danny, even as he started to hear the faint buzz of a gathering ectoblast. "A long, complicated story. But I'm not dead. Promise."

"You're not dead."

"No. Here, I'll show you, but we'll have to go up a bit."

"What for?"

"Ectoplasm here is really thick." Danny gestured around at the wavering stairs, weeping walls, melting architecture, twisted trees, and gelatin-like masses of things that might have once been buildings but could also have been condensing islands. "Hard to breathe." He floated up, and gestured for Grandpa to follow.

They spiraled up, dodging other ghosts and more solid bits of reality. Danny kept looking back, checking to make sure Grandpa was still following him, that it hadn't all been a hallucination.

He'd wonder if it was some kind of trick from one of his enemies, but... Grandpa had died before the portal opened. None of them should even know about him.

They reached an area where ectoplasm and air mixed relatively evenly, and Danny quickly found something to land on - a crumbling old building that slowly rotated in the ether. He anchored his sense of 'down' to the wall, and landed, looking up at his grandfather, still making sure he was being followed.

"Are you ready?" asked Danny.

"I'm not sure what you're asking me if I'm ready for," said Grandpa. He said it with some levity, but it sounded forced.

"Well," said Danny, "it's hard to explain. Just--" He bit the bullet and transformed, kickstarting his breathing and heartbeat.

He didn't expect his grandfather to suddenly embrace him, crying.

"I was so worried," he said. "So worried that something terrible had happened, and you'd died. What is this? One of Jack's inventions, letting you look like a ghost? Are your parents out here too? I have to see Maddie--"

"No," said Danny, feeling himself tear up as well. "It isn't an invention. I was in an accident with, um, a little ectoplasm? So I'm a bit weird now, but it's fine."

"And Maddie? Alicia? Your sister?"

"We're all fine, Grandpa," said Danny. "Really."

Grandpa let out a shaky sigh. "I'm glad. I'm glad, Danny. I can still hardly believe it, you know? All those things about ghosts. They were true. Except the evil part, but I'm sure Maddie's figured that out by now, too."

Danny cringed and pulled back, out of the hug. "Not exactly."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean... If they saw you, they'd probably shoot at you."

"But... I'm me."

"They wouldn't think that."

"But," said Grandpa. "I have to see them! I have to make sure they're alright."

Danny bit his lip. "Maybe," he said, "you can still do that. But we'll have to be really careful."

.

Danny went through first and checked to make sure the lab was clear. Grandpa followed after.

"Oh, my," said Grandpa. "That's different."

"Yeah," said Danny. He eyed Grandpa with worry. "This is your first time out of the Zone, right? If you need some time to adjust... I mean, we don't have to do this today."

"No, no, I'm fine."

"Right," said Danny. He let go of his ghost form. "Okay, now, go invisible, and stay near me." His parents were used to Danny setting off their detectors, so, this way, if they triggered anything, they'd assume it was just Danny again, and Grandpa would be safe. "And don't say anything when other people are around," he added.

"You're the boss, Danno."

He climbed the stairs. "They might not be home for a while, yet," he said, quietly. "I usually don't go to the Zone unless I know they're going to be out for a while. They were going to go investigate a haunting."

"Do you think they'll be safe?"

"Probably," said Danny. "It wasn't a real haunting. I checked." He pushed the door at the top of the stairs open and peered into the kitchen. "But we could go check in on them. Or Jazz."

"Is she still home?"

"She could be at the library," said Danny. "But she still lives here."

"I'd like to see her," said Grandpa.

"Okay. She does know about ghosts, so it's okay to talk to her, if she's here."

He took the stairs up to the second floor two at a time. "Jazz?" he called. "You home?"

"Yeah? What?"

"Can I come in?" asked Danny, stopping in front of her door.

"Sure!"

Danny opened her door and stepped in. Jazz looked up from her computer.

"What is it?" she asked. "You're back early."

"Yeah. Uh. I ran into Grandpa Greg out in the Zone."

"What?"

Danny nudged Grandpa. "You can be visible again," he said.

"Thank goodness. I don't know how long I can keep that up for."

Jazz gasped.

.

"Remember," said Danny, "when they come home, you have to stay hidden. They won't believe you're you."

"I will," said Grandpa.

"Okay," said Danny. He braced himself and went down the stairs.

"Hey, Mom, hey, Dad, how are you guys doing?"

.

"Are you sure you need to leave?" asked Jazz. She was definitely tearing up.

"Sorry, Jazzy," said Grandpa, patting her shoulder. "I just... I need to check on Alicia, now. And sticking around here seems to not be a good idea." He smiled at Danny, a little sadly. "But don't worry, kiddos, you aren't getting rid of me forever. I'll be back before you know it!"

"And we'll be here," said Danny. "Or, well, I will, I guess. Jazz might be in college."

Grandpa chuckled. "You might go to college, too, young man."

"Eh," said Danny, shrugging.

"I love you guys, you know that, right?"

"We know," said Jazz.

"Love you, too," said Danny.

They waved as he flew away.

[jbreenr]

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥

Pairing: Ransom Drysdale × Reader

Summary: You wanted to meet Ransom's family, he wanted to make sure you'd never want it again.

Word count: 3k.

Warning: Poorly written smut (+18 only, please), public sex (prompt 11), fingering, unprotected sex (don't do that, kids. be responsible), a bit of dirty talk, the Thrombeys being the Thrombeys. And I think that's it.

A/N: So, after finding out one of my stories was stolen an translated in Wattpad, I did not know if I should post this just yet but, what the hell? Let's do it. Anyway, this is for @stargazingfangirl18 and @navybrat817 's Shameless Hoes for Chris Challenge so, happy belated birthday! Yaaay. 🥳 Hope you like this at least a little and that it's not as bad as my paranoid brain thinks it is. Also, I just love how the prompts fit perfectly together, don't you? As always, lack of vocabulary and grammatical mistakes abound. *apologizes in español*

Wheel results (just attaching evidence):

ᴹʸ ᵍⁱᶠ

Draining, tedious, exasperating. Those were some of the adjectives Ransom associated with Thrombey family reunions. He'd arrive late, have some sort of conversation with his grandfather and leave early to do whatever that took him away from that big house.

Today though, he had a reason to stay for more than half an hour.

If it was up to him, you two would have stayed at home, happy, relaxed, and most importantly, naked in his bed, having a more pleasant time than the one you were most likely about to have. 

He tried to persuade you. Of course he did! But your insistence and puppy eyes made it impossible for him to say no to your request. 

So, here you were, getting out of his car, cake in sweaty hands and an excited smile on your lips, an expression so different from Ransom's, who seemed to be ready to get back behind the wheel and drive straight to Canada.

He didn't knock; he simply opened the door and held it for you to enter. If the three floor house was imposing from the outside, you felt impressed by the inside. Extravagant sculptures, apparently expensive paintings and other kinds of pieces of art were scattered everywhere, telling you just how wealthy and eccentric Ransom's family were. 

“That's Harlan Thrombey! ” You exclaimed as you stood in front of the portrait of your forever favorite author holding a knife and a book.

“So?” Ransom asked, unconcerned.

You turned to him open-mouthed, the cake almost slipping off your palms as you went to playfully slap him in the arm.

“How come you are related to Harlan Thrombey and you didn't tell me?” Your question was more of a shock than an accusation.

The carefree gesture he did with his shoulders only accentuated his next words. “I did not think you would be interested in knowing.”

“I wouldn’t be interested?” Incredulity, flowing out of your lips. “He’s the best thriller author of all time! He’s like today’s Edgar Allan Poe!”

To say that you didn't believe him was an understatement. He knew for a fact that you liked Harlan Thrombey's books, just taking a look at the bookshelf in your apartment was proof enough of that.

“We call him grandpa here.” Said a femenine voice. A brunette walked in your direction, her pretty features hardening as she looked at your boyfriend. “Don't we, Hugh?”

He seemed to be ready to say something but decided not to. Instead he inhaled and placed his hand on your back.

“This is Y/N, the only reason I’m not telling you what you need to hear right now.”

Her eyes rolled in irritation and then turned to you. “I’m Meg. Let's introduce you to the rest of the family, shall we?.” And she dragged you to the room where more people were gathered together, discussing something, not before sending a deadly glare at Ransom.

Given the distance between you and him, you didn't listen to the heavy sigh he let out before waking behind.

“Everyone!” Meg called, making everyone leave whatever they were doing to look at her –and you, in consequence. “Meet Y/N, Hugh's new friend.” She then proceeded to introduce every single member of the family, including the housekeeper and the nurse, except for the grandfather, who apparently had a moment of inspiration and left them momentarily to put his ideas on paper.

None of them left their seat to go and shake your hand except for Meg's energetic mom, who hugged you and expressed how much she loved your coat even though it was soooo last season.

Sitting on a couch next to Ransom, you half expected someone to ask you about how you two met or how long had you been dating or what was it that you did for a living. Nothing. As fast as their attention was on you, it fell from you to their previous discussion.

You now understood why Ransom jokingly suggested deep cleaning the house instead of attending that reunion.

What you weren't aware of, Ransom thought, was that all of them were behaving wonderfully compared to previous times.

You didn't know if you felt more disappointed or uncomfortable. Ransom had left your side to go to the studio for a second and you had barely had any interaction with his family. All of them, dipped in their own matters to even notice your presence. 

Fran, the housekeeper, was kind enough to take the cake to the kitchen and offer you a glass of water, but after giving it to you, she disappeared along with Meg and the nurse. 

“So,” All at once, the room went quiet as Ransom's uncle spoke. “Have you read any of dad's books, Y/N?” Only until you heard your name was that your head snapped up.

“Oh, uhm… yeah. I'm a big fan.” Taken by surprise, you simply answered.

“Really? Which one have you read?”

And to that question, you felt suddenly included in the conversation since you had knowledge of the topic.

“I'm like fifty pages from finishing 'The Needle Game' and intrigue is eating me alive.” As you heard the excitement in your voice, you tried to compose yourself and said “Though 'Nick Of Time' is my favorite.” You smiled at him, hoping that your answer was a good one.

The woman that was introduced to you as Ransom's mother nodded as she licked her lips. The light of the fireplace, reflecting on her glasses as she moved her head up and down.

“Have you read 'Ultimatum' or 'Drop In The Pocket', dear?” Her tone was curious, but the look on her face said differently.

You responded anyway. “They're not bad. I feel like the ending of 'Drop In The Pocket' was a little vague and out of line but it can always be interpreted as an open ending so…” The change in their expressions told you that you had to add something else to that answer. Maybe it was not time for literature humor yet. “But I enjoyed both.”

She hummed and took her drink, detaching from the talk that continued with courtesy questions until it morphed into a heated discussion between Ransom's father and uncle, who would repeatedly ask for your opinion to back up his own.

The discomfort you felt, dispelled to be replaced by the disturbance of being bombarded with dozens of questions at a time, each louder than the other until they changed to a completely different topic to which you were occasionally included as a neutral point of view.

“She knows what she's talking about!” Said Richard at some point when you confirmed one of his arguments. “Thank you, dear.”

Ransom came back from his obligatory argument with his grandfather to find you nowhere to be seen. 

“She's using the bathroom.” Informed Jacob, who did not take his eyes off of his cellphone. 

Thinking that you went there to hide, he started his way to your potential direction until an overheard observation from his mother stopped him halfway through. 

“… Did you hear how she talked about dad's work? Oh, I assure you she won't make it to next week with Ransom.”

Her and Richard's backs were to him, both of them unaware that their son was listening to their share of opinions.

“And did you see her hands?” Joni joined the criticism contest. “She could use some moisturizer, I tell you.”

As usual, they ignored her attempt to fit in and kept going.

“I know it's contradictory to say this,” Richard paused, as to make his point clear. “But he could do better.”

Despite their whispering, Ransom heard every single word and was glad that you were not there to see what was about to happen… 

Ransom's words stuck on his throat when he saw you making your way out of the bathroom, fixing the skirt of your dress, with such niceness and warmth directed to him as you smiled, oblivious to the fact that the people you were trying to get to like you weren't going to. 

His parents were right. He could do better. He could determine to not see them ever again and it would be the best thing to happen to him… Besides you, obviously.

“What's wrong?” Your concern was evident, just as his annoyance was undeniable.

Cold hands caressed his cheeks and Ransom thought of going back to Joni and tell her to fuck off. Your touch was soft, comforting, and gave him the greatest idea he'd ever had.

“I want to show you something.” Was his answer. It was better if you were the one who decided to never step on that house for the rest of your lives. It didn't matter if it was out of embarrassment.

Taking your hand in his, he guided you up the stairs to the first landing. The creaking sound of the old structure, probably alerting everyone in the other room that you were going to the next floor.

“Are you okay?” The sweet giggle that you let out when he abruptly stopped, almost making him feel bad about what he was seconds away from doing. 

“Better than ever.” And he stamped his lips to yours. 

Taken aback, it took you a second to respond. Hands on each side of his face as his own explored your body. When his fingers lifted your dress to caress your ass cheeks was when you ended the kiss. 

“What are you doing?” You asked in a breathless whisper. “Not that I'm complaining.”

You were cornered against the wall with Ransom towering in front of your smaller frame.

Trying to escape from whatever he had in mind was useless, you knew that much. Though, you were not sure if you really wanted to escape.

“What I've been wanting to do ever since you got a shower without me this morning.” His lips found your jaw and descended to your neck where he sucked to create a bruise. Your eyes closed to the sensation.

“Wait. No, wait.” His fingertip that had started rubbing your still clothed bud paused it's motions as his eyes focused back on your face. “We can't do it. Not here.”

Ransom's finger went back to work, bringing a soft moan that you tried to suppress. “Why not? No one's gonna come here.” His other hand moved up your thigh to lift it. “Even if they did, they wouldn't notice.”

With an expert swing of his wrist, he moved your panties aside, letting the cold air that wandered inside the house hit you before his skilled middle finger entered you while still managing to rub your clit in circles with his thumb.

Adrenaline ran through your veins, fuel activating every nerve in your body and shaking away fear from your brain, replacing it with lust and boldness.

“I'm blaming you if we get caught.” Your hips jolted forward wanting to feel more of his hand, the contradiction between your words and actions, making him smirk.

He added a second finger. Knuckles deep and his cold ring slowly warming against the inside of your thigh, he said, “I'll take responsibility, sweetheart.” Pumping his fingers in and out, he felt your slick running down the back of his hand to his wrist, wetting his overly expensive watch and the cuff of his cozy sweater .“But I can't assure you we won't get caught.”

His words, instead of working as a bucket of cold water as one would expect, increased your need to be touched by him, the yearning for him to take you right there and then. 

“Damn it, Ransom.” One of your hands flew to his shoulder to hold onto him for dear life. “I'm close.”

“You're not cumming unless I'm inside you, pretty thing.” At what point did he unfasten his belt and unzipped his trousers, you had no idea. The friction of his digits was gone in a second but the feeling of his already leaking tip rubbing against your most sensitive parts was enough to make you forget about those trifles.

Your lips opened, ready to tell him to keep his voice down when he suddenly thrusted home, stretching you out so deliciously that you had to cover your mouth to muffle the moan that threatened to inform everyone of your current activities.

Ransom's breathing hitched. Being inside you was a dream come true, feeling your walls enveloping his cock so fucking good… it was like you were made for each other, and he was going to prove it, even if his family didn't really get to know.

His hips started moving. Back and forth, back and forth. Delicately at first, letting you adjust to his size but the second he felt you throbbing around him, he increased the pace. Little by little his pounds gained power and energy.

Your whimpers –stuck in your throat, leaving only soft snuffles that crashed against Ransom's cheek, soon became more rapid, erratic and as his fingers dug in the flesh of your thigh to keep you still while he accommodated to go even deeper you heard a creaking noise.

Your boyfriend's blue eyes met yours, his movements never faltering despite the alert given by the dark wooden floor under your feet.

There was a conflict in your head, and Ransom could tell. The way you tightened and the pleading look on your face told different stories, yet Ransom knew they had the same ending.

Shaking your head, your eyes asked him not to do it, but you knew Ransom well enough to be sure that not even begging could stop him. 

“You love it, don't you?” His smile grew bigger as his change of position allowed him to hit your sweet spot on and on, ripping high pitched whines from you and obligating you to close your eyes. “The thought of getting caught. The image of someone seeing how good I make you feel.” The placement of his foot, making the landing creak repeatedly each time he pushed up accompanying every word. “Fuck, you're talking me so well. Such a dirty girl, uh.”

His big hand yanked the strap of your dress down, exposing your left boob. Your already hard nipple was soon attacked by Ransom's fingertips. He'd pinch and twist it slightly, just enough to make your back arch in search of his touch.

Pleasure was overflowing your senses, you could feel your heart thudding in your ears and your legs losing strength. Your hand left your mouth to grip at the back of Ransom's neck to keep you from falling.

The sight of your lower lip trapped between your teeth didn't please Ransom. In other circumstances, he would've let you stay that way, as quiet as possible so no one would walk on you. This time though, it was his intention to rip the most delicious sounds from your lips so you thought of the possibility of his family listening.

And so, he lent to kiss you, passion and desire transmitted through his breath. His tongue asked for a permission that was not really required, but as you let it in, Ransom took the opportunity to bite down your lip.

With your lips forcefully parted and Ransom's restless hand traveling back to your bundle, you had no other option than to moan with each quick circle his digits drew.

A series of laughs and undistinguished words were heard from a distance. Both Ransom and you turned to see what they were about, stopping in your tracks with him still buried deep inside your needy cunt.

“Guess dinner's ready.” Unbothered about the information he just gave, he hid his face in the crook of your neck and resumed his movements.

A shaky oh, fuck fell from your lips as you felt the familiar knot in your stomach forming. Your head flew back, hitting the wall with a soft thud. 

“Careful. We don't want to be obvious, do we?” You knew you were about to explode, and by the way your walls were clenching and your trembling body tried to separate from him, Ransom knew as well. “Let go, sweetheart.” A roar erupted from him as he felt you tightening around his length. “Cum for me.”

With a last, powerful thrust of his hips, you let out a silent scream. The coil snapped, making you see a kaleidoscope of colors behind your eyelids and listen to a loud ring in your ears. 

Ransom followed right after, cursing as he finished inside of you, coating you with every last drop and making sure everything would stay there.

He slid out, leaving you with a feeling of emptiness as he zipped his trousers and took a step back to let you fix your appearance.

You managed to accommodate your dress just in time for Ransom's family to walk out of the room they were in to see you. Your agitated breathing and blushed cheeks, getting everyone's attention. 

“Are you okay, dear?” Ransom's dad asked.

“She's fine.” Your boyfriend answered for you. “She's feeling a little sick. I better take her home.” He took you by the hand and helped you down the stairs to the door, which you thanked. Had he not done it, you would have tripped taking the first step.

“But she hasn't met grandpa yet.” Meg noted, furrowing her brows.

“It'll be next time.” And with that, Ransom took you out of the house and in the passenger seat of his car without giving anyone the chance to say goodbye.

When you were at a considerable distance, you sighed, letting out the air you didn't know you were holding.

“Just so you know, there won't be a next time.” You informed him, against your want to meet his grandfather.

“Why not?” He asked with a chuckle, already knowing the answer. 

“Cause embarrassment won't let me come back in the near future.”

Behind an eye roll and a tap on your thigh, Ransom hid the triumphant grimace his perfectly carried out plan gave him.

[editorandchief]

Choice We Made | Bonnie Gold | Part II

Choices We Make | Masterlist

 "So what did I miss?" You asked.

"Well there was a tense debate on a coin flip that if I recalled left us in between dad buying this yard or Mr. Shelby fucking Esmeralda." Bonnie recanted.

"Of course it was," you replied. "Money and sex that's what drives Tomas Shelby. I'm sure he would fuck a filly if he was tall enough." You laugh bringing a chuckle out of Bonnie and Aberama.

Later on you and Bonnie were tending to the horse when Tommy walked in and took a seat next to Aberama before pouring himself a drink.

"Fine beast this one.

"Nothing you see is for sale Mr. Shelby."

"You know your grandfather camped with mine for a while."

"Yeah didn't last."

"No it ended badly in a pub called the Winlock." Aberama informed. "We were own money, still are."

"Other than money and a scrap yard that's clearly not for sale what is it that you want from me Mr. Gold?" Tommy asked.

"How do you know I want anything from you?" Aberama asked in return.

"Well my company treasurer who is a certified accountant and also apparently a witch." Tommy answered.

"Your a sporting man"

"Yes I am."

"And a gambling man."

Aberama instructed Bonnie to take off his shirt, as he complained and began to shadow box in front of the two older men.

"What I want from you Mr. Shelby is for you to take a gamble on him, I want you to help my son achieve his ambition." He reveals

"What ambition might that be?" He asked.

Getting bored with the conversation you sigh and walk outside of the barn while they continued to talk about Bonnie's ambition. It's not that you didn't support Bonnie you were 100% behind him but a girl could only take so much business for one day.

After awhile you hear a voice from next to you.

"You've got a brother." Tommy states taking a drag from his cigarette. "Names Charlie."

You stand silent not acknowledging his presence.

"I'm sure he'd love to meet you." He states. "It's been two years."

Scoffing you move from your spot and start to walk back to the more populated part of the yard where the rest of the family was still finishing up they're meals and drinks.

"Y/N!" Tommy called following closely behind you. "You need to listen to me." He shouts drawling the attention of the other even Bonnie and Aberama rejoined from their previous occupation of the stables.

"Like hell I do." You finally spoke not slowing your stride at all.

"These Italians are after all of us." He states.

"All of you Shelby's." You clarify.

Catching up Tommy grabs you by the arm and turns you to face him. "And the last time I check your a Shelby too."

"Well check again." You replied snatching your arm from his grip. "I've not been a Shelby for quite sometime unless you've forgotten, I didn't get a black hand, I wasn't here when you did what ever you did that got your  wife killed!...that got John killed."

"Nevertheless." Tommy said after a deep breath. "Any persons bearing the Shelby name, be it past or present will be accompanied by two blinders at all time and will until further notice reside in 6 Watery Lane."

"Go fuck yourself Tomas." You state before Turing around to continue on your way.

"That's enough!" Tommy suddenly shouts causing you to halt. "I've had enough Y/N."

"Yeah?!" You asked rhetorically storming back us to him. "Well so have I, I've had enough of your arrogance and demands. The same arrogance might I add that made you choose that Irish snitch over your own daughter...your own blood."

"Watch it." Tommy warns, however having no effect on you.

"That same arrogance that got her killed, it's got Danny wiz bang killed, it got John killed, honestly Tommy it's going to get you all killed eventually so I think the safest place for me is as far way from you as possible."

A hand placed itself on your shoulder causing you to whip around coming face to face with Bonnie, prompting you to relax. 

"Come on dove I think you need to take a walk calm down a bit." He suggested wrapping his arm around you waist and leading you away.

"Can't we just go home Bon?" You asked.

“how about just for a walk first.” even though he phrased it as a question you knew there wasn’t any room to argue from the look on his face 

“how's the talk go after my departure?” you asked as the two of you make your way down watery lane.

“great your da- I mean Mr. Shelby is gonna give me a chance.” bonnie stuttered slightly.

“its fine Bonnie, as much as I hate it he’s right.” you admit. “he is my father and I am still a Shelby.”

“for now dove.” he corrected. I can’t wait to make you Mrs. Gold.” Bonnie beams wrapping his arm around your waist and pulling you closer as you continue to walk.

You, Bonnie, and Aberama walk into the Shelby warehouse closely following Tommy and Arthur. Tommy had contacted them with the offer of a fight for bonnie to ‘audition’ with Billy Milles.

you have heard of him from your childhood a boxer that apparently now worked in a steal factory.

“Mr. Shelby thank god your back, we’ve got real trouble.” a well dressed mam comes rushing up to tommy as we enter the factory floor. 

“how many meeting do I have today?” Tommy asked not slowing his strides as the man falls into step along side if him.

“There's a supply from Coventry at 10, the covenanting of the boarder makers union at 11, and camber of convers at 1, but that’s not the thing.” he continues.

“right clear this space here, move this car back and get me a hundred feet of rope and a bell.” Tommy ordered.

“Rope?”

“yep, and a bell.” he confirmed.

“Mr. Shelby this place is about to explode.” he warns.

“Rope and a bell Devlin,” Tommy repeated ignoring the warning from ‘Devlin’. “Bonnie this way.” tommy called.

“Yes Mr. Shelby,” Devlin called. “By the way the revolutions scheduled to begin at noon.

staying with Aberama as Bonnie and Tommy went to meet his boxing opponent, watching as they quickly set up the makeshift boxing ring making you wonder how many times this had happened before.

“Your not worried are you?” Arthurs voices comes from beside you.

“Why would I be?” You scoffed knowing how well Bonnie fights and how much he wanted this, there is no way her would loose.

“Billy Mills he ain’t no joke,” Arthur stated. “You remember we used to take you to see him fight.”

“I remember Polly trying to knock John and your heads off when se found out you took me there.” You recall with a chuckle.

“Yeah, Billy Mills is nothing compared to Polly.” Arthur Joked.

“And Billy Mills is nothing compared to Bonnie.” Your replied. “Trust me.” you said. 

“Well you know the Shelby way.” Arthur states. “Lets bet on it.” he yells out for the factory to hear.

“come on, place your bets here, I’ll give you good odds on the boy and even better on the big lad!” Your uncle announces as he paces the perimeter of the now finished ring stopping at each men who wanted to gamble money. 

“For people with such little money,” you mutter coming to stand with Aberama as he helps Bonnie with his gloves. “They do seem very willing to bet it all on pop up boxing ring.” You finish reaching over for Bonnie’s hand and pulling the straps on his gloves making sure they were properly secured.

“Well of they’re betting on me they got nothing to worry about.” Bonnie smirked.

smiling brightly at your boyfriends confidence you ball your fist and kiss your knuckles before both Bonnie gently touches his gloves you your hands.

“Remember Bonnie in the pros people like to get they’re moneys worth, don't win too fast.” Aberama reminds the young boy. 

Bonnie nods as the bell and the crowd roars he turns and faces his opponent.

The fight begins and Billy wastes no time in coming at Bonnie locked and loaded.

Bonnie blocks and dodges Billy’s punches and on occasion throws one or two as well.

“Your boy knows her can hit back right?” Arthur asks Aberama over the hordes of screaming men.

“i told him in the pros, people want they’re moneys worth, don’t win to fast.” Aberama replied. “But if you’ve seen enough. FINISH IT BONNIE!” He shouts to his son.

You had seen this plenty of times before as Bonnie advances onto the older man and starts to deliver blow after blow, it wasn’t long before Billy Mills was laid out in front of you and the three men.

“Well fuck me, the was a punch.” Arthur exclaimed. “What's he got horse shoes in those gloves?” He asked.

Ducking under the rope you wait as Bonnie finishes taking laps around the ring, calming down after the fight, coming towards you, as you begin helping him remove his gloves 

“No, just his father’s strength and his mothers temper.” Aberama Answers.

“Does ha have fits?”

“No.”

“Asthma?”

“No.”

“How’s he cut?” Arthur Jumped in.

“Well no ones cut him yet, but his skins thick.” Aberama informed.

“Does he drink?”

“Porter..Sometimes.”

“How many fights?”

“25 bear knuckle all knock outs, 5 with gloves in pasters all knock outs.”

“Against romaine fights.” 

“That's why they wont let us in the fairs anymore, he keeps winning.” You added. 

“I could fight a fucking tree and knock it out Mr. Shelby.” Bonnie says as Aberama wraps his arm around him.

“I like him,” Arthur laughs looking at you. “I like him.”

“Mrs. Eden is waiting upstairs.” Devlin whispers to Tommy.

“I’ll be right there.” Tommy replies. “Arthur.” Tommy says gesturing for him to follow him away from the three.

“So what do you think Dove?” Bonnie asked.

“I think, Tommy Shelby never does anything for anyone that isn’t Tommy Shelby.” You state still eyeing your father and uncle a few feet away from you.

“We’re doing a service for Mr. Shelby and he is doing us one as well.” Aberama explains.

“Yes, but we’re getting paid for our service.” You rebuttal turning to face the two golds. “And Tommy will expect us to pay for this as well, i just hope the price isn’t too high.”

“Relax Dove,” Bonnie says placing his hands on your shoulders. “Nothing bad is going to happen to us, Okay?” Bonnie reassure looking into your eyes and waiting for confirmation. 

“Okay. You answer returning the smile he was giving to you.

Tommy and Arthur finish talking making they’re way back inti the ring.

This was all Bonnie ever wanted since you met him and you wanted nothing more than for him to achieve his dreams, to help him with his dreams.

“So when do you think my first fight will be Mr. Shelby?” Bonnie asked.

“As soon as we can find anyone stupid enough to get into the ring with you.” Tommy replied. “Here you go Bonnie, your a Peaky Blinder no son.” Tommy states as Bonnie take the peaky hat from his pocket.

unsure Bonnie turns to Aberama who gives him a slight nod then turns to you, this is exactly what you were afraid of, Bonnie getting mixed up in anymore Blinder business than needed.

Despite your nerves and better judgment you also give Bonnie a nod of you false approval to the deal at hand.

“I would also like to add,” Tommy started. “That my daughter return to our home on Watery Lane.” He finished.

“What?” You shout at the subcontract.

“You Mr. Gold and your son have been contracted to protect and eliminate the current threats to the Shelby family.” Tommy starts. “Y/N is still my daughter therefor apart if the Shelby family.” He states matter-of-factly to Aberama.

“No. I’m not leaving Bonnie.” You shout.

“I’m sure if Bonnie likes you-.”

“Loves.” You and Bonnie both correct simultaneously.

“Then he would want what best for you, and what’s best for you right now is to be where you can be protected not with the man who is supposed to be hunting the very same enemy that wants you dead.” Your father explains.

“Maybe he right.” Bonnie agrees.

“He’s not right he’s manipulative, which is exactly what he’s doing to you.” You contradict. “I’ve been on plenty of jobs with you and nothing had ever happened.”

“But none of those men were after you.” Bonnie stressed.

“Fine.” You relent. “We’ll stay at Watery Lane.” 

“We?” Your uncle asks.

“If you want me to stay there, Bonnie will be staying with me.” 

“No, I’m paying the Golds to protect this family not so you and Bonnie can fuck in our house.” Tommy informs.

“What a lovely thing to say to your daughter.” your mocked. “But you seems you’ve taken my relay of information as a request for permission.” you smirked repeating the same words Tommy hand spoken to you the day you left the family. 

Bonnie looks around sheepishly at the three older men fighting a smile as he dawns his brand new peaky hat.

Before anyone can object any farther you grab Bonnie’s hand and begin making your way to the factory exit pulling your boyfriend along the way as Arthur slips the money from the bets with  Aberama.

“You really think your dad is gonna let us sleep in the same bed together under the same roof as him.” Bonnie asked letting go of  your hand in favor of wrapping his around your shoulder.

“No,” You answer right away. “In fact he might try to kill you.” You half joked.

“Well, what a woman to die for.” Bonnie replied

[brighteyedbushybrowed]

Hello,since you are accepting headcanon requests, could you do a Eddie one of him being the father of twins girls

𝐄𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐓𝐰𝐢𝐧 𝐆𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬

Of course I can!! I love the idea of Eddie having twin daughters and I think he'd be a wonderful dad (no I'm not biased bc I have daddy issues shush)

First of all, names. You both decided on naming the girls metal related names but didn't want them to be names they'd get made fun of for having. So, you both decided on Sharon - named after Sharon Osbourne - and Ronnie - named after Ronnie James Dio

They both have his brown curls and his eye shape but they have your eye colour and the same nose and mouth shape as you

He absolutely spoils them rotten. Buys whatever candy they want from the store (within reason, of course), takes them to whatever after school clubs they wanna do, gives them presents whenever he can because he wants his girls to have what he didn't growing up

He lets them put his hair up and put makeup on him and he'll proudly have you take pictures of the three of them after their makeovers

It goes without saying that Eddie raises them on metal and rock music. Watching his girls dance around and sing along to his favourite songs makes his heart swell

Always calls his daughters his princesses and treats them as such

You all have matching outfits and outfits that are coordinated with one another and seeing him wearing clothes that match Sharon and Ronnie is the most heart melting, saccharine sweet thing you've ever seen

When they get older, he sews patches onto their own denim vests like the one he has

He has a patch on his own vest that's a little pink heart with a crown on it to symbolise his girls and how much they mean to him

He also gets their names tattooed on him roughly where his heart is

Always wearing the bracelets and necklaces they make for him

He also makes them their own Corroded Coffin and Hellfire t-shirts that they can wear

He has a weekly campaign that the four of you play so that he can teach them the game and hopefully get them interested in it so that they can start their own DnD clubs when they get to high school

He keeps a photo of you and the girls in his wallet that he looks at so much that the corners have faded a little

Wayne dotes on them just as much as Eddie does. He acts as their grandfather because of Eddie's dad being out of the picture

You all spend Christmas, birthdays, and Thanksgiving with Wayne and your family too and the girls always put on their own little metal concert for everyone with their dad as the guitarist

He absolutely gets them into playing instruments if that's what they wanna do. Sharon likes playing the keyboard/piano and is very good at it whereas Ronnie is rather attached to the trumpet

He's at every recital and performance in the front row, filming the entire time. He cheers the loudest out of all the parents when his daughters perform

He gets very protective of them when they start dating in high school. Not as far as sitting with the shotgun waiting for them, but he makes sure any prospective partners are aware that he won't tolerate his little girls being mistreated or messed around

Don't even get me started on prom. He's a big emotional mess seeing his girls all grown up in their prom dresses

And then if they decide to go to college? He's helping them move in, unpack, make the beds, the whole lot. Because he's not sure he's ready to let his little girls, now all grown up, go

He calls them every night to make sure they're okay and catch up on any gossip

Throws massive parties any time they come home to visit because his girls deserve to be celebrated every single day of the year

[manjiropie]

do whatever is in your mind.

Young Mikey x Reader!

Warn! no warnings today! enjoy!

It's not often Mikey and I have a quarrel. We do bicker here and there, but that's what happens between friends, right?

I've joined Toman for almost a year now– although I've known Manjiro for much longer. I met him through Emma, who is a big friend of mine for as long as I can remember. She was there for me at times when I felt like there was no exit, no light. She's an extremely important part of my life– of me.

I've come to realize that I have been spending more and more time near Mikey, which is not bad, I do enjoy his presence. He may look tough and intimidating but he's just like a mochi: freezing cold on the outside but melting saccharine inside. Now that I'm a part of the gang and actually get to know and participate, I've gotten closer to him. Here and there Mikey invites me out.

"So, it's like a date?" I'd smirk suggestively at him.

"In your dreams." He'd try to hide his smile and he'd look away.

However, there are a few little habits he has that tend to send me on a rage trip. I get mad easily. Things will likely set on fire quickly. It's not that I want to, but my mother is not one of the most patient people in the world and she tells me to cool down. As if.

This last week was the cherry on top.

Mikey had crossed the line. He had pissed me off in every single way possible. He pretended not to listen to me while he was eating. He would answer me in a "oh, I don't really fucking care about what you're talking about!" way. He tripped while he was laughing hysterically at something Draken had said and his pink lemonade was all over my white shirt. He drew in an assignment that was due to the next day for my math class. He told me off for no reason at all in front of everyone in the last Toman's meeting... all of that wasn't on purpose. I am aware of how incredibly short his attention spam is when it comes to not so important affairs. But, fuck, couldn't he just be a little nicer to me? At least during last week where I was having sharp cramps in my fucking uterus? Yeah, maybe he didn't know that because I try not to be so obvious. But when he told us we'd be training last thursday I almost laid on the ground in fetal position and cried for hours. I didn't! I fought and then went home and cried.

Then, this Saturday– today –he invited me to his house to hang out. Emma was with a friend and his grandfather was out of town. When he called me to his house we never did much. We'd watch TV, hang out on the couch discussing stupid stuff, we'd be on our phones... nothing so wow. It was still fun, though.

I wasn't in the best mood to leave my comfy bed but I was way less in the mood to fight him off over the phone. So I slid out of the bed and dressed the first jeans I saw laying on the end of my bed and the oversized Nirvana shirt hanging off my chair (it's actually my dad's shirt, shhh).

~

I knocked twice on his bedroom's door.

"Come in." He yelled from inside. I open the door and he's laying on the bed, his head hanging off of it and his hair is almost touching the floor. His face lit up and he rolled over so he laid on his stomach. I walk over and sit down beside him.

"What's up with the frown?" I didn't notice I was frowning to be honest. Guess the bad mood followed me here.

I shrug.

"Ugh, don't tell me you're in a bad mood." He whines. "I called you here to chill and you're already angry. What's up?" He lays on his pillow and swings his legs to place them on my lap. I huff and shove them off, getting up.

"You've been treating me like shit the whole week and now you wanna chill?" I say, more calm than I thought.

"I did not treat you like shit this week? When do I treat you like shit?" His tone was one of disbelief and confusion.

"Ah, Mikey. Embarrassing me in front of the rest of gang; spilling your drink on my school shirt, which is now stained; ignoring me or answering like you're bored..." I list them off on my fingers. "I am the one who asks, what's up with you?! God, you're always being so unpredictable, which is good sometimes but not like this! Not to me!"

I flop down on the couch, starting to get tired of this whole thing. Knowing Mikey, I know that he'll not lay down again.

"So you're the only one allowed to have bad days now?" He sits on the edge of his bed and I turn my head around lazily, uninterested, bored, like him.

"You were laughing incredibly loud with Takemitchi and Draken friday."

"You can be so annoying sometimes."

"Oh, I'm the annoying one now?" I stand up.

"If you don't like my company, why did you even come in first place?" He also stands. We don't have much height difference, but he's hardly two inches taller than me.

His voice is calm, like always. Which makes me infuriated. "Fucking hell! Does it hurt for you to apologize!?" My sudden outburst takes him on surprise, and me, too.

"I already apologized, stop whining about it."

"I'm not whining–"

"If you weren't," he walks to his desk and sets a cup that was once beside his bed down. "You would've dropped this matter before."

"You don't give a damn about what I feel, do you, Mikey?"

"What?" He turns around, brows knit together.

"You heard me. You made me have a bad week and the least you could do is apologize, you dumbass!" I stomp to his direction.

"I already did! Why don't you–"

"Shut up or I'll punch you." I say, slightly looking up.

His eyebrows twitch and he slowly tilts his head to the side, like a puppy. "Or what.. ?"

"Are you fucking deaf?" I point to my ears.

He comes a little closer. "You're gonna do what if I don't shut up?"

"I'm going to punch you if you don't stop being a brat." I sneer at him. My blood boiling. The stress from this shitty past week overflowing in that moment.

"Oh, yeah?" I could feel his breath oh my nose.

"What? Are you doubting me? I would." I jerk up an eyebrow. I've never fought physically with him. But it's not like I can't.

"I'd like to see you try." His eyes flicker to my lips for a brief second and my breath fails, making me cough.

"What? Can't punch me?" He amuses.

"Fuck you."

Suddenly I feel an arm sneak around my waist and in a second I'm chest to chest with Mikey. My eyes widen– his were peaceful as ever, although superior.

"Do it." He says, looking down at me.

The way he's holding me is making my head spin. True, Mikey is cute...

"Do what?"

He laughs at my confused expression. "I don't know... what did you say you'd do to me?"

Ha ha.

His hold on me tightens.

"Do whatever is on your mind." He says.

My eyes roam free between his eyes and his soft pink lips. Do whatever is on your mind.

If he knew what was on my mind, would he still allow me to?

"Do it," he encourages me once again, "aren't you the 'oh so brave' one? Punch me, yell at me, do whatever you want to me."

Those words were the last push I needed. My hands find the soft skin of his neck, hidden by his long hair. I pull him close and lock our lips together. I feel him making a little sound, I don't know if it was surprise or relief.

If by just looking at it his lips seemed soft, actually touching it felt like kissing cotton candy or guessing cloud shapes.

He didn't pull back, in fact, he held me with both hands. I have no clue how he did that but it seemed as though all of my worries dissipated as we kissed.

My heart was beating so fast that it made my chest hurt. My head started to pound when I spent a little too long without air. I pull back from his lips and keep my gaze on them as I breathe heavily.

"Hm." He hums quietly, almost dreamily if you'd ask me.

I look up at his face and smile a bit, noticing how his cheeks are pink. I lift an eyebrow up as if asking what he was thinking. He shakes his head and then puts his right hand on my cheek, caressing it. He kisses me again. This time is slower. As though being present in the moment. As if it were just me and him and nothing else.

----------

I hope you guys liked It! It was so pleasant writing this out of the small bits of ideas that I have. Don't forget: my requests are open. You can request anything! Thank you for reading! Oh, likes and reblogs help a lot! If you consider following it'd make me even happier <3

[hotchs-second-wife]

One Chicago Spin-off, but its their kids - Rewrite

The amount of stupidity feel right now. I already made this post and it was in my drafts, and my dumb ass deleted it when I went to edit it- anyway, if you couldn't tell, I deleted all of my old One Chicago Kids content because I'm rewriting it! So, here we go;

Kelly's still the chief, but he's the chief of Firehouse 28, where his daughter and only child is the squad lieutenant.

Homegirl following in his footsteps.

And of course, Kelly and Stella named her Leslie.

Lieutenant Leslie Severide. I love it.

ANYWAY- Casey's kid also followed in his dad's footsteps and became the captain of 28.

His name would probably be Andrew, or Andy for short.

Andrew and Leslie having the same dynamics as their dads.

Fire captain that gets in harms way pretty much every shift, his squad lieutenant best friend getting his ass out of danger again.

Leslie being an only child and Andrew having three sisters and two brothers.

Casey and Brett be having children left and right-

STELLA WOULD SPOIL HER GIRL SM I SWEAR-

No because Kelly would too.

28 being friends with the new-ish Intelligence Unit.

I use the term new-ish bc idk what else to use.

Like, Adam, Hailey, Kevin and Kim are probably still there, but they'd have new members - perhaps someone's kid?

Introducing Detective Patrick Gregory Halstead.

Named after his grandfather and dad's best friend for obvious reasons.

I JUST IMAGINE WILL BEING LIKE "what about me?" TO JAY-

Patrick and Leslie re-enacting their dad's moment where Kelly helped Jay find the guy that caused the apartment building fire (that was why, right??), but obviously for some other reason.

Hailey finding them and calling Stella, like "they've done it again."

All Stella can say to her daughter is "you are so much like your father sometimes" or "you definitely have your father's personality."

Same, Leslie-

BACK TO MY POINT-

I kid you not, if we got a scene where Kelly is seen accidentally encouraging Leslie to break the rules and Stella having to tell her husband "no", I would die laughing.

Andrew and Leslie totally live together.

Cat person x dog person roommates

Turns out I didn't delete the last draft.

I posted it. Like an idiot.

ANYWAY-

The amount of times Kelly has to call his captain and squad lieutenant into his office is insane.

He'd look at Andrew after he (Andrew) did something stupid like "you know your parents are going to ask me about this" and then turns to his daughter and says "your mother won't be too happy to find out that you lost a squad truck, Leslie."

"I know, Dad." "What?" "Yes, Chief." Kelly only makes his daughter repeat herself because Stella was coming to his office in her gear and all.

Stella starts scolding Leslie- "Do you know how much a squad truck costs?!" "I've never bought one...so, no."

"Leslie Sylvie Elizabeth Severide." "Dad, help-" "I'm just as scared of your mother as you are, kid. I'm just here because this is my office."

Leslie knows she messed up when her mother calls her by her full name.

Jay getting concerned about his son's safety during a case, so Kelly offers a place at his daughter's house.

Leslie genuinely doesn't care - Patty's her friend, after all.

He's also the only one who knows first aid.

Leslie and Andrew both work with paramedics. One, in which, is Andrew's little sister-

I'm in the middle of school writing this part and I'm not actually meant to be on my phone-

After the case, Leslie and Andrew would invite Pat to just live with them since the district is in between their house and the firehouse.

Pat coming home smelling like alcohol; he was dealing with an alcoholic drug dealer during the case and got alcohol thrown at him.

And yes, Jay essentially went ballistic on the guy because that's his son you're throwing an alcohol bottle at, man.

Andrew immediately smells it because he still has his sense of smell after being a firefighter for as many years as he has.

It takes Leslie a bit. Mostly because she'd be hyper focused on something else-

With both of her parents' genes, Leslie was definitely a leash kid.

Most definitely got it from Kelly.

I can imagine little bubba Leslie learning to walk, and the Severides are at the Caseys, everyone's expecting Leslie to go to Kelly or Stella, but instead she goes to Matt.

Kelly just standing there dumbfounded because he was calling to Leslie saying "come to Dadda" and the child went to her uncle/godfather instead of her father.

The girls are laughing their heads off and Matt is just trying to tell her he's not her dad.

She would start crying.

Kelly has literally put in his will that if something happened to him and Stella wasn't around, he trusts Matt to take care of Leslie.

So Matt's been in Leslie's life the entire time (mostly because he's her godfather) and she's gotten used to him being around.

Leslie going to Matt when she knows she's done something stupid, but she doesn't want to go to her parents-

Matt being like "you know your parents will find out sooner or later."

Speaking of godparents, Mouse being Patrick's godfather-

I just imagine Mouse's reaction to Patrick crying for the first time when Mouse finally meets his godson.

He starts panicking and Jay reassures him that Patrick cried when he (Jay) first held him too, and that Pat just needs time get used to him (Mouse).

I read a little fic by someone on here where Mouse met his and reader's child for the first time and the child started crying-

I read it at like 3 am and I started crying.

Back when Leslie was a toddler, Kelly and Stella bringing her to the house-

No bc Sylvie would bring Andrew and Boden would be nominated "Grandpa" after Andy or Leslie call him "Ganba"

Why do I feel like Leslie would be an aggressive little child? Like, if Andy or another kid stole her toy, her first instinct would be to smack 'em?

Ofc Kelly and Stella would raise her out of it-

Leslie going to school (like middle school and high school ig) with Patrick because Jay and Hailey wanted their son to have a friend at his school.

I feel as kids, Leslie and Pat wouldn't be very close because you know ONE of them would've played sports and other would've been busy studying like no tomorrow.

Leslie would've been more of a practical kid, ngl-

If Chicago was in Australia, Leslie would've done VCAL, Pat would've done VCE and Andrew would start with VCE, but then go into VCAL.

don't ask me what they mean because I don't remember.

and im doing vce, so-

WE JUST CALL THEM BY THEIR LETTERS- but if there's any Aussies that wanna clear up any possible confusion, go for it-

But they're not in Aus, so back to topic-

Andrew would've been a really smart kid, and he liked his studies but he'd hate how much theory he'd have to do.

He's the only one of the roommates who actually has a degree.

Leslie knew she was going to be a firefighter, so she didn't bother going to college.

Patrick travelled for a bit, then figured out he wanted to follow his parents' footsteps, even if his sister's didn't want to.

One of Jay's kids looking up to their Uncle Will and becoming a doctor because of him-

That'd be so sweet.

My uncle is a nurse, and I don't remember what the rest of my uncles do for a living tbh

I tried going down the nursing route, but not for me-

I wanna go to uni for criminology or psychology, maybe both-

I'M GETTING DISTRACTED AGAIN-

Jay and Hailey's kids being really close to their Uncle Will, but not so much their maternal uncles, just because I feel like Hailey's brothers are a little distant. Mostly because we haven't even got the name of one of them, much less met one-

Has Jay met one of his brother-in-laws? Or his mother-in-law?

...hailey has a mother, right-? i for sure heard somewhere that she has a mother-

Anyway- yeah, Pat and his sisters being close to their Uncle Will and Will having to babysit sometimes.

"Keep an eye on him." "You know I will." "I was talking to Patrick."

Jay thoroughly believing that his son isn't the one who drags his brother into trouble, but it totally is-

No- i just imagined little Patrick seeing either Jay all bruised and cut up from a case and him asking in a little kid voice "daddy, are you okay?"

I MELT-

MEN WITH KIDS GETS ME-

Ik its the bare minimum for men to take care of their kids, but i didn't see a lot of that growing up, so it's so adorable to me.

Don't get me started when the dads come in with their toddlers and play with them a little 🥹

Patrick being exactly that as a detective-

He's working on a case, where he's talking to young parents when their kid waddles in and starts playing with the cuffs of his pants.

And he starts playing with the kid- 🥹

Oh, and I know Matt and Sylvie broke up. Lets just say that maybe they got back together after Matt came back to Chicago

Anyway-

I'll probably leave it at this, because its so long already. I will have their names and ages at the bottom, the colours corresponding with their job (pd, fire, paramed, med, other)

Kids Names and Ages

Youngest -> Oldest

Andrew and Heather's sisters - 15yo and 18yo

Patrick's youngest sister - 19-20yo

Heather Nancy Casey - 20yo

Patrick's sister - 21-22yo

Leslie Sylvie Elizabeth Severide - 23yo

Andrew Kelly Casey - 24yo

Patrick Gregory Halstead - 27yo

Patrick's older sister - 29-31yo

[thehuntison]

Text || Quinnter {Thursday after Thanksgiving}

Quinn: Hunter Clarington I have some questions for you.

Hunter: Uh-oh! What did I do?

Quinn: Well, I figured I'd hear from you this week once you got back into the city and figured out what's next. But nadda, nothing. So this is me informing you that I'm coming to New York this weekend to see you in person.

Hunter: Sorry...yeah that is my bad. Things are okay though. I mean, better than okay really. Sebastian has been really good; in some ways it feels like we're closer than ever. But I feel like...well, he's Seb. I know he's also putting up walls now.

Quinn: You'd never know you guys had split up by scrolling your social medias. Well, apart from ... who's Jay Baker?

Hunter: I know, and I think that is on purpose. You know how private Sebastian is. I'm okay to let people think what they want about us. But he wants to have a "we broke up party." And let people know then. After the hubbub of the holidays.

Quinn: A what?

Hunter: He said it is like a divorce party but not lame. I don't exactly want to celebrate our breaking up, but if it's something he needs to do for him, then I'm going to support it and him. Because he's my best friend.

Quinn: And who is Jay Baker?

Hunter: Oh... yeah. So uh, Jay is the guy I'm seeing.

Quinn: Hunter! That was quick.

Hunter: It's complicated. Jay is a factor in why Sebastian broke up with me. I kind of fell for him. HARD. As in leave Ojai (where we were for Thanksgiving) in the middle of the night and fly up to San Francisco when I found out he'd been in an accident.

Hunter: Oh, and Jay is Sebastian's college boyfriend. His one "real" ex. And he works for Sebastian's dad as a nanny for Matthew (Seb's little brother) and sometimes Annabelle (Seb's grandfather's little girl-- technically she's Aunt Annabelle but she's seven so...).

Quinn: And Sebastian is fine with all of this?

Hunter: I know-- it's weird right? But he pretty much was the one who told me to go after Jay after he broke up with me and made me go back to Ojai with him. And suggested I make a move sooner than later because Jay had recently started seeing this real estate agent here in the city.

Quinn: I'm used to these complicated, twisted relationships after high school, but I thought you Dalton boys were better than this. Plus we're not teenagers anymore, you're grown men.

Quinn: Well that came out far more judgy than I meant.

Hunter: You think?!

Quinn: It's weird. Sorry. I'm processing.

Quinn: So you're doing okay?

Hunter: A lot better than I expected to be honest. And that's because of Seb. So it's hard but we're going to work it out. I just can't imagine my life without him in it.

Quinn: Well, I'm still coming up to check on you, and Seb, for myself. And meet this new guy. See what his story is.

Hunter: Quinn- you're going to love him. He's an artist. He's beautiful. He's creative and fun. And he's from California, so he's super chill.

Quinn: Mhmm. I'll send you my train info. And I'll see you Friday evening.

Hunter: Yes Ma'am. 😛

Quinn: Shut up.

Quinn: I'm glad you're okay.

Hunter: Thanks Q. See you Friday.

[addictofsupernatural]

The Southsider (pt. 9)

Sweet Pea x reader

Chapter Summary: As y/n prepares for an important event in her life, her humor stirs up some interesting reactions from those she cares for.

Word Count: 1978

Chapter 1 • Chapter 8 • Chapter 10

Toni taught you the main moves, and you were determined to perfect them. Some of the dance had to be from your own creativity, which you figured out along the way. This had to be perfect. Not just for Sweet Pea, but for you. "Alright, I think we could take a break. And by break I mean we're going lingerie shopping."

You nervously nodded. When you got there you just felt like none of them would look good on you. You felt awkward there. If you felt uncomfortable in a crop top for one person how were you supposed to wear this stuff in front of a group of people?

"Have you found anything?" Toni asked, poking her head out of an isle row.

"No. I don't think I'll look good in any of these." You sadly looked at the items.

She walked up to you with a few outfits in hand. "Why not?"

"I don't know. Just never been a big fan of my body I guess. It was only a few years ago when I had to cover up to hide the bruises covering my body."

She put a hand on your shoulder. "But there aren't any more bruises to cover up. Your dad's gone now and your body's thriving. You should be proud of having control over it. Now c'mon, I found a few things for you to try on."

You went into the dressing room, trying on each of them and showing them to Toni. Toni reassured you that you looked good in all of them, but you both agreed that none of them were really perfect for you. "This is stupid." You called through the dressing room.

"No it's not, now come on out. This is the last one anyways."

You stepped outside. Toni looked you over, nodding her head. "I like this one. I like it a lot."

"Really?"

"Yeah. This is the one." She grabbed your hand and spun you around. "Let's see that dance." Toni joked.

You hopped around, overexageratily rubbing your arms. "I'm not used to this much air hitting my body!" You partially joked. "It's so cold in here." She laughed and pushed you back in the dressing room.

You changed back and paid for the outfit. "It's getting late. Hopefully FP and Jughead will be asleep and won't see this."

You both walked back to the trailer park. As you both stopped at Jughead's trailer, Toni then said. "Y/n?"

"Yeah?"

"Pea's gonna love it." You blushed and playfully pushed her. She laughed at the reaction and walked back to her trailer.

You opened the door slowly. The lights were off. As you closed the door the lights clicked on, and you saw the two boys sitting on the couch. "Hey guys."

"Now where have you been?" FP asked.

"With Toni, like I said."

"What's in the bag?" Jughead asked.

"Nothing important." You put the bag next to your duffle bag and laid down on the small air mattress that was set up. "Night."

"Y/n." FP said in a harsh tone. You sat up, knowing he wasn't in the mood for games. "Where were you?"

"With Toni." You urged. "You could even ask her grandfather Thomas."

"That bag doesn't look like English homework to me."

You sighed. "Look, I went over to Toni's, learned some stuff, then we made a quick shopping run. I worked for the money that I spent, if that's what this is about."

"Were you with Sweet Pea?" His asked loudly, ignoring all that you said.

You gave him a really? look. "No."

"See? I told you." Jughead said. He started to get up. "We stayed up for nothing."

"Sit boy." He pulled him back down. "What's in the bag?"

You didn't want to argue or get him mad, so you grabbed the bag. FP tried to snatch it your hands, but you pulled it back, handing it to Jughead. He looked into the bag, before yanking his hand out right away. He got it. "Dad, she was with Toni."

He ripped the bag from his son's hands. "Give it here boy."

He pulled out the lingerie and stood, throwing it to the ground when he realized what it was. "What the hell is that?!"

"Careful, it was pricey!" You exclaimed. Jughead held in a laugh.

"So this is what you're doing now?" You nodded your head, a little confused. He didn't get it. "You used to be smart and open eyed, and now this is what you're doing? Sweet Pea's got you doing this sort of crap?!"

You bursted out laughing. "You think that Swee-!" you cut yourself off laughing more. You sat next to Jughead, putting a hand on his shoulder. You calmed down a bit, pointing to FP and the lingerie. "He thought that I got that for Sweet Pea~!" You started laughing again. Jughead couldn't help but laugh a little bit as well.

"Someone wanna tell me what the hell is so funny?!" FP was getting angrier.

You calmed yourself down. "Thank you for that laugh, it felt really good." You then sat up straight. "No, I did not buy that for Sweet Pea. I bought that for the serpent dance."

He put a hand to his mouth, digesting what you said. "The Serpent dance?"

"Yup."

"So you're gonna become a serpent?"

"Just like mummy." You gave him a cheeky smile.

"Oh." He let out a big sigh. "I just figured, cause it's Sweet Pea, you know?"

"No, I really don't." You turned to Jughead. "Why does everyone see Sweet Pea as some dark, controlling person with a knife kink or something?"

"I honestly don't know." He responded. "I don't see it either."

You nodded. "You think he'd like the outfit though?"

FP cut the conversation short. "Bed, now." You and Jughead lightly laughed as you all then went to sleep.

The next morning you woke up a lot earlier than the other two. Whenever you slept in a place you weren't used to sleeping in, you always woke up very early. You decided to make the most out of the time you had, and went to your duffle bag.

Jughead woke up the best way he could. He smelled bacon. He walked into the kitchen, groggy and tired, to see you practically shining. "Morning." You smiled at him. "I made pancakes, bacon, and sour bread french toast. What would you like?"

"The works." He sat, a plate of stacked food put in front of him. You knew him too well. He dug in as FP came out of the bathroom and sat down as well, a plate being put in front of him.

He turned off the stove and plugged in a small fan to not make the whole trailer hot. "Where'd you learn to make all this?" FP asked.

"Practice at my house. When it's just you, you don't have to feel bad for screwing up someone else's meal. I got better overtime."

After breakfast you washed the dishes as Jughead combed his hair. "So, you ready for our double date?"

You made a face. "Ugh, that's today. Why was Betty so excited for it?"

"I don't know. She's been talking about getting to know Sweet Pea because one of our best friends is dating him. She said it'll be good for the Southside to stop hating the Northside so much by southsiders getting to know her."

Oh Betty. Such a sweet heart of gold.

When you got to school Kevin immediately came up to you, linking arms. "Oh my God, we have so much to talk about."

"So you heard?"

"From Veronica, who heard from Betty, who heard from Jughead. I knew that wrinkly, sack of bones aunt was evil. Okay, no offense, but her inside kind of shows on her outside."

You laughed. "None taken. I agree, when I look at her I see my mom if she was buried in pet sematary and came back."

He laughed as well. "As much as I love talking about the Wicked Witch of the West and the Good Witch of the South, I wanted to ask you something."

"Go ahead."

"As you know, I'm directing the musical for this year, which I have selected to be Carrie: the Musical."

You nodded. "And a good choice too. I think we all know who's going to be lead."

"Pretty much, but there is another role that I think will be perfect for a certain person."

"Which is?"

"I want you to play the role of Chris Hargensen!" He smiled brightly as you, anxious. You loved musicals, but you weren't much for performing in front of others. However, seeing the smile on Kevin's face caused you to give in. You would do anything for Kevin. He was your best friend.

"Sure." You smiled back.

He excitedly hugged you. "Oh my God, this is perfect. It's a good thing you said yes, because I already wrote down the cast list and was on my way to post it on the bulletin board."

"Gee thanks."

"It's fine, Veronica was going to be my backup in case you said no." Kevin took out the paper from his satchel and posted it, people shoving past the two of you to see the list. "First meeting starts tomorrow after school."

The bell rang. "Alrighty then. I'll see you later."

The day went by a little too quickly for your likely. School ended, and Betty told you to meet them at Pop's at 4. You walked out of the PE locker rooms, which happens to be your sixth period, to see Sweet Pea waiting for you. "How are you so quick?"

"I'm just that good sweetheart." He smirked.

You laughed and lightly nudged his shoulder. "No need to brag. I was close behind you." He only responded with an unsure sounding Mm. You fake pout.

"Put the pout away." He hugged you from behind as the both of you walked to his motorcycle. "I'm here." You snapped your head and looked at him with a wild smile. He didn't know whether to be confused or nervous.

"That was the most adorable thing I have every heard! I fell for a teddy bear."

He felt offended. "I'm not a teddy bear, I'm a serpent. Nobody adorable would have a neck tattoo."

You giggled. "So cute."

You made it to his bike, and he grumpily let go of you to hop on, but you grabbed his hand to stop him. He sighed and leaned on the bike. You leaned onto him, his hands unconsciously finding your waist.

"I know you're not just a cuddly teddy bear. You're tall and dark and brooding and a mystery that people can't seem to solve. You're a badass who has a neck tattoo. You're a serpent. I know all that, but I also know that you can be a softie sometimes, and there's nothing wrong with that."

He then gently said, "I'm only soft for you."

You were about to kiss before you heard laughing. You pulled back and saw Fangs standing right next to the two of you. "I'm only soft for you? Yeah, that's something any chick would want to hear." You both stared at him, Sweet Pea fuming. "Oh, right, I'm not here."

Sweet Pea then quickly got up and chased Fangs through the parking lot as you patiently waited for your boyfriend while leaning on his bike. When he came back breathing hard with ruffled hair you smiled. "You good now?"

He walked straight up to you and pulled you in for a deep kiss. You were surprised, but quickly reciprocated. When he pulled back you were gasping for breath.

"All good. Let's go to that damn double date." You were still in a daze and extremely flustered, so all you did was nod and grab onto him as the two of you sped off.

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Author's Note: Sorry that this was a little shorter than usual, and not much really happened either.

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