#if it was possible for me to be pregnant I'd be seriously worried

[whatimdoing-here]

.

[luveline]

hey!! I'd love to see one where maybe jack and hotch try speaking to the baby in pregnant!reader's tummy :))

thank you for requesting! fem, 1k

You sniff Aaron’s hair. It’s your right as his wife to enjoy his smells. You’re too tired for subtlety. “You know how many weeks I am today?” you ask. 

You’re in a bubble together. Aaron answers with his usual calm tenor. “You are twenty seven weeks today, honey.” 

It’s endearing that he knows. It’s nice to have found a good one. To never have to worry about compassion or care. Which isn’t to say he’s perfect, he makes wrong decisions, and he disappoints you sometimes, but still, he’s a good one. You aren’t perfect either and you don’t have to be, all you need to do is love and respect one another as much as is physically possible, and you do.  

“Mm,” you hum, drawing a heart into his arm, “and you know what they say around this time?” 

“I’m not sure.” 

“She can hear you, if you want to talk to her.” 

“Really?” 

“That’s what I read earlier on. That if you talk to her through my stomach, she can probably hear your voice. By full term she’ll have hearing like me and you.” 

“Is that true?” he asks, resting his hand on your bump. Sometimes when the baby is in a bad mood and her foot feels like it’s making a bruise through your skin, all Aaron has to do is touch you, and she stops. 

“Well, according to the baby book. They say by twenty nine weeks it’s a sure thing.” 

“Can I speak to her?” 

You brush through his hair with your pinky nail. “Sure, sweetheart. You can talk to her all night long, I’m sure she’d love to hear your voice.” You push the hair from his forehead. “I like hearing you talk.” 

“Lay back,” he says. 

Aaron sits up and you lay down, your head in the pillows, your pregnancy cushion a support on your left side. He slides your t-shirt up slowly as though giving you time to say no. He begins to rub slow circles around the bump, before laying his head flat to he bed, his lip less than two inches from your distended tummy. 

“Hi, baby,” he says, unabashed. “How are you feeling?” 

You laugh. He peeks up at you. 

“Sorry, it’s just funny.” 

“It’s okay. I’d laugh if you started asking my stomach questions too…” He smiles. “But my baby’s in there, so you’ll have to forgive me.” 

“I won’t laugh again, promise.” 

“It’s fine if you do. I’m finding it hard to take myself seriously.” He slows his rubbing. “Baby, if you can hear me, please say hi… I love you. I’m so happy you’re getting bigger.” 

The longer he talks, the less funny it becomes. His melodic murmuring turns praising, he talks of you and Jack and every amazing thing waiting for the baby in the world when she’s done cooking. He tells her he loves her, loves you, that she’s beautiful even though she’s shaped like a GMO kidney bean. He’s totally relaxed. You fall in love with him all over again. 

“And it looks like your big brother wants to say hi too,” he says. 

You perk up. Footsteps rush down the hall to the master bedroom, and a knock echoes fast. Jack doesn’t wait for an answer, bursting in with a happy gasp. “I knew you were still awake,” he says. “Please can I come watch TV with you?” 

“Sure, buddy, but we aren’t watching anything right now,” Aaron says. 

“What are you doing?” 

“I’m talking to your sister.” 

Jack leans against the bed, fingers screwing in Aaron’s shirt unthinkingly. “You are?” 

“I read in my book today that she can maybe hear you when you talk to her,” you tell him. “Would you want to talk to her, bud?” 

“Can I?” 

“Sure. I don’t mind. I’d love for you to say hello, ‘cos how special is that? For the last few weeks, all she’s been able to hear is me. She doesn’t know she has a whole family waiting for her.” 

Aaron straightens and helps Jack climb onto the bed. He settles at the pillows with you, leaning down briefly to kiss you, lips misaligned but no less gentle. 

“What do I say?” Jack whispers, putting his hand carefully on your bump. 

“You can say anything you want,” you whisper back. “You can say hi, or you can tell her something. The best thing about babies is that we get to teach them about everything.” 

“Okay, um… well,” —he braces himself with two hands on your tummy and leans in— “you can’t see, but we have a dad with brown hair and brown eyes, and we have a super pretty mommy who smiles all the time at me…” Jack’s cheek tips toward his shoulder. “On Sunday they take me to the library and we stay there all morning. And for dinner we always have, um, one hand of vegetables and one hand of chicken, or pork, or pasta. But it’s okay if you can’t finish everything.” 

He looks at his father. “Is that okay?” he asks. 

Aaron offers his hand. “Buddy, that’s perfect. You can tell her anything that you want. She just wants to hear your voice.” 

“Can I tell her about teenage mutant ninja turtles?” 

You laugh. “Sure,” Aaron says. 

Jack starts to talk about Donatello. You try not to laugh as his little hands tickle you, turning your face into Aaron’s side. 

“I have so many things to say to you right now, but I’m worried it’s too saccharine,” he says. 

“Save them for later,” you say, hugging his waist. “Can I nap here? Would you rub my arm?” 

Aaron rubs your arm as you’ve asked. You fall asleep to the sound of your stepsons mumbled rambling and Aaron’s occasional breathy laugh. 

[abiatackerman]

Sweet nothings to the baby bump

The master bedroom of the "Ackerman Cottage" is clean as expected. Everything is free from dust and dirt and right now the shiny surfaces are sparkling under the moonlight. The window is open and a sweet calm wind is passing, making the curtains dance in a calm melody.

The room is silent other then the gentle voice of Levi Ackerman who is currently laying beside you and taking with the baby bump of yours. You're laying comfortably, caressing Levi's silky-straight hair as Levi keeps talking.

Levi smiles as he feels your fingers running through his hair which is his most favourite soothing sensation. His eyes are locked on your growing belly, knowing it holds his child, your child. His hand gently placed on the bump, he speaks again as he feels the kid kicking.

"Don't kick too much, brat…Your mother needs to rest as much as she can…"

Levi says softly, a look of affection in his eyes as he speaks and caresses your bump.

"The brat's got your genes.... Of course he loves to kick"

Levi chuckles softly at your comment,  knowing you are right. His child definitely has his genes and is already showing that by being just as restless and energetic.

And by kicking......

"Yeah, I don't think any amount of convincing is going to stop the little shi....."

Before Levi can finish his sentence, you sudden slap lands on his head.

"No cursing in front of the baby."

He winches playfully at the slap, just to make you happy. He loves your occasional "beating". Only you and you have the right.

"Fine. I won't curse in front of the kid."

Levi says, with a hint of humor in his voice. He then leans closer to the bump, his hand remaining on your stomach as he speaks to the growing baby.

"Sorry baby…Papa says too many naughty words, huh?"

Levi continues to speak to the unborn child in a gentle voice, his hand gently rubbing your abdomen. He smiles warmly, his eyes filled with love for the child that is growing inside you.

"Your mama's very protective of you already…But don't you worry, you can kick as much as you want when it's just me."

You laugh at Levi's words and lean down to kiss his forehead making Levi's heart flutter in response. He reaches up, gently wrapping his arms around your waist and pulls you closer to him, wanting you as close as possible. He buries his face against your stomach, his eyes still fixed on your pregnant belly.

"I can't wait to meet our little brat…"

He says softly, his voice filled with excitement and anticipation.

"Same"

You say as you caress your huge baby bump as Levi keeps watching. After a while his hand joins yours, fingers intertwining over the bump. He can feel the occasional kicks and movements from the baby and it never fails to bring a smile to his face. Levi looks up at you, a mixture of love, excitement, and a hint of protectiveness in his gaze.

"You know, this might sound weird, but I kinda wish you'd stay pregnant forever…"

He says jokingly, yet with a hint of seriousness in his tone. You smile with amusement as you flick your forehead.

"You wouldn't have said that if you would have gotten pregnant. It's tough but I'm enjoying my pregnancy. Also anything for the brat."

Levi chuckles at your words, knowing you are right. There is no way in hell he'd ever be able to go through the pregnancy himself. He's a man and he'll never know that pain. Still he's so happy that you're enjoying this period. Both of you are enjoying this together.

"I'd rather not have to deal with all the mood swings, cravings, and discomfort. You're a damn warrior for dealing with all of that, and putting up with me on top of it."

He says with a  genuine appreciation in his voice and you chuckle.

"Just as I said... Anything for the brat. Also I'm enjoying."

Levi smiles and kisses your baby bump and speaks again.

"Yeah, I've seen how much you're willing to endure for this brat. You've even put up with me fussing over you every five minutes like a damn mother hen."

You laugh loudly as Levi compares himself as a "Mother Hen."  Suddenly you can't push away the image of Levi being a hen... It's hilarious.

"I love it when you joke and when you're protective"

Levi grins, feeling warmed by your laughter and words. He can’t deny that he relishes in your reactions to his attempts at humor.

"Well, someone around here has to keep your stubborn ass out of trouble. Can't have you getting into messes and putting yourself and the brat at risk. It's just a bonus that you apparently love when I'm a possessive, overprotective basta....."

You slap Levi's head again.

"No curse words!"

You warn, glaring.

"Alright, alright, I'll watch my language. Can't have the little brat picking up any bad words before it's even born."

He leans back a bit, and sighs.

"Although, I can't promise I won't slip up from time to time. I am Levi Ackerman after all, cursing is kind of my thing."

You nod at his words, understanding.

He's a man who grew up in the underground hearing curses, using them. It'll take time and you don't mind. You'll help him.

"Just not in front of the kid.... Please."

As you speak with a pleading tone, Levi nods, feeling a mix of amusement and affection at your pleading tone.

"Fine. I'll try my best to keep the swearing to a minimum in front of the brat. Can't promise I won't slip up occasionally, but I'll do my best to be a good example for our kid."

He reaches out to gently stroke your cheek, his gaze softening as he looks at you.

"I know you'll be a great father, love"

Levi's heart swells at your words. His face softens more when you kiss the palm of his hand which was caressing your cheek.

Levi can't help but smile at your confident belief in his ability to be a good father. He knows he has a lot to learn and that he'll make mistakes, but having your support makes him feel like he can handle anything that'll come in both of your ways.

"And I know you'll be an amazing mother. You're strong, caring, and have more patience than anyone I've ever known…even me."

You smile at his words and grin cheekily, making Levi smile too. He finally moves away from your bump and lays beside you. You yawn tiredly and hug Levi's waist and rest your head on his chest. Levi starts to caress your hair in order to lull you to sleep.

"The brat's kicking again..... "

You mumble and slowly fall into a slumber and Levi chuckles, kissing your head as he closes his eyes too, falling asleep with you.

You, his wife, the mother of his child.....

[happiest-hotch]

i think you did one of there with spencer and it was cute so i was wondering if you'd write one for aaron, a full fic or blurb where Aaron guesses she (his gf) is pregnant before she guesses? thanks in advance

i'm glad you liked it !! it's the type of scene i love writing

Summary: basically as above, but they are married

Pairing: Aaron Hotchner x Fem!Reader (Fluff)

Content Warning: pregnancy (obviously)

Word Count: 1.5k

It's a quiet day at the BAU, and you and Aaron are in his office, having lunch together on the rare occasion you're not out on a case, there aren't any urgent consults, and he doesn't have a meeting.

He starts smirking when you complain about there not being enough pickles in your burger.

"What?" you asked, raising an eyebrow at his sudden change in demeanor.

He leans back in his chair, his hands clasping behind his head. "I don't know, honey. You've been acting kind of strange lately. Do you think it's possible that you're pregnant?"

You roll your eyes, playfully kicking him under the desk. "Haha, very funny, Aaron. You better watch your mouth." You say jokingly.

He chuckles, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I'm teasing, but if I'd take a bet on it. Seriously, you've been craving some weird foods lately, and if I was dumber, I'd say you were having some mood swings. Maybe you should take a test, just in case."

You shake your head, laughing at his persistence. "I highly doubt it. You know, with the birth control and all that? And you know it's a bad idea to offer me a bet." It might have been why he did it because you're both insanely competitive.

"Why don't we up the stakes?" He offers, the signature smirk that only you're privileged to lighting up his face.

You grin mischievously at him. "What do you have in mind?"

"Well, you know how the team bet on if we were dating?" He asks and you nod. "Let's include them. Only if you're comfortable." He's only joking, and you're so sure he's off the mark.

"A chance to show to prove your profiling skills wrong?" You ask with a giggle. "Derek would kill me if I didn't take it."

"You're on," Aaron says, holding out a hand to shake yours and make it official. "But when I'm right, you owe me."

You chuckle again. "Yeah? What will I owe you?"

He grins, his nose scrunching adorably as he thinks. "I'll get back to you about that."

You notice the team walking back in from lunch. "Let's do it."

Aaron and you walk out onto the landing, and he makes his announcement. "Conference room, everyone."

They look at you both with a high level of concern written on their faces, scurrying like something urgent has happened which, due to the nature of your jobs, is reasonable. "Don't use your Unit Chief voice." You scold, hitting him on the shoulder. "And don't even think about bullying anyone into agreeing with you."

"Deal, but you can't make it seem offensive for them to bet against you." He instructs.

"I won't." He assures you, placing a hand on your lower back and guiding you to the boardroom.

Penelope's jumpy when you two walk in and stand in front of the screen, not doing as well as everyone else to hide her worry. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong." You tell them all quickly, but it's a message to Aaron as well: that although you're sure he's wrong, it wouldn't be a bad thing.

"Y/n's pregnant," Aaron announces.

You hit him on the shoulder, quickly speaking before everyone jumps up to hug you and offer congratulations. "That's just what he thinks." You say.

Even Spencer had a puzzled look, but Derek verbalizes their thoughts. "What?"

"We're betting," Aaron explains. "I think she's pregnant, she thinks she's not, so like you all bet on whether we were dating or not, we thought you might like to bet on this."

For everyone who has known him longer than you have, it's astonishing to see Aaron so open with his personal life, but you bring the playful side out in him.

The bets are in, more in favor of you, although the doctor of the team bets against you which is a little worrying. Of course, Spencer isn't a medical doctor, but he knows more about pregnancy than even JJ, who has been pregnant.

"So when do we get the results?" Derek wonders.

"Right now?" You offer. "Well as soon as I go get a test."

Aaron shakes his head beside you. "No, no way. I want it to be just us because it's going to be a special moment."

You roll your eyes at him. "Okay, but you're not coming in the bathroom while I pee on a stick." You inform him.

"We'll see." He settles, looking at you fondly before dropping the smile reserved for you when he looks back at the team. "Let's get back to work."

Aaron stops at a drug store on the way home, determined and cemented in his position as he buys three boxes of pregnancy tests.

"I don't have enough pee for all of these." You inform him when you're getting ready for bed that night.

He opens each of the boxes, handing you one of each. "Get your cute butt in there." He directs.

"I'm not taking this for you." You remind him with a smirk. "I'm taking it to prove you wrong."

"So, for me then?" He jokes, chuckling at you.

You're not really sure why you are taking the test. Of course, it's gotten to be a bigger idea with the team's involvement, but now that you're doing it, you're kind of hoping you lose. The excitement engulfing you is a shock, but it's so unlikely that you don't want to give in to the delusion.

"Are you okay?" Aaron taps on the door after you've been in there more than a reasonable amount of time.

You open the door, trying to keep a calm facade, and welcome him in, handing over the capped tests and sitting on the counter.

"You actually want this, don't you?" He profiles within a second.

It's an annoying trait of his when it shows up in your personal life, but sometimes you are glad since you're feeling like you don't have all the words. "It just threw me." You admit. "I didn't realize that I do feel ready until today."

His face drops in an instant, guilt sinking in. "I'm sorry I pushed so hard." He says very apologetically, a hand going to his forehead. "And I got the team involved."

"It's alright." You soothe, taking his hand in yours. "It's not like we can't just make a baby once we know."

Aaron nods, a cheeky smile taking over his face. "I'll give you a baby if that's the prize you want for winning the bet."

"Did you figure out what you want?" You wonder. "If you're right."

He thinks about it for another moment. "Baby or not, I can't think of anything else I need in life." His hand rests on your thigh delicately. "Ready to look?"

You shake your head, the nerves overwhelming you. "Let's not bother. We can go not knowing."

Aaron chuckles, shaking his head. "We both know we can't." He doesn't give you much more of a choice, figuratively tearing the bandaid off as he flips over the test. He's usually so good at keeping his face neutral, having had years of practice, but he doesn't. Not in your tender moment where his eyes go glassy, and he grins broadly. "Mrs. Hotchner, congratulations, you're pregnant."

"Oh, my god." Your hand clamps over your mouth in shock, but you quickly tear it away to take the test from him, needing to see it to believe it. "We're going to have a baby?"

"Yes, we are." He answers.

"I can't believe you realized before I did." You chuckle. Without a doubt, it's going to become a story that frequently gets retold.

Aaron leans forward, pressing his forehead against yours. His warm hand rests on your lower stomach, and it suddenly feels very real. "I know you that well." He reminds you. "But I will still be collecting my betting money."

You giggle at him. "I would."

It's probably clear to the team when you and Aaron are late for work, the team likely assuming you're at the doctor's office. The team is already waiting in the conference room, Rossi waving you two in.

"So, who won?" JJ wonders, struggling to curb her enthusiasm.

You share a quick smile with your husband that no one can decipher if you're gloating about winning. "Fortunately... Aaron." You inform them.

Penelope grabs you in a hug first, and you're sure she's crying. Then you're passed around the team for more hugs, sharing delighted looks with Aaron between receiving congratulations.

He's the last person to wrap you in a hug, holding you tightly to his chest. "You're so incredible." He whispers to you. "And I was thinking we could get lobster rolls with my prize money for dinner."

You quickly pull back, shaking your head. "That thought makes me feel nauseous."

His mouth drops before he quickly recovers. "Alright, pickles it is."

You're in your own little world with him until Derek gets your attention. "So, when do we get to bet if it's a boy or girl?"

[witchersmistress]

A guarded walk home

hello darlings, here is a secon part for New Orleans. took me a few days, wanted to make sure i had some historical facts as close to accurate as possible!

Summary: A POV from both Aurora and Syverson, one set in the first year that they met in 1864 and then in the now in present time of their reunion.

Word count: 2.7 K

Trigger warnings: swearing, pda and swoon worth heroics

New Orleans 1864

Slipping on my lace gloves as the cool evening mist curled around my ankles as I made my way down the front steps of my friend Caroline’s home. “Are you sure you can’t wait a few more moments, John will happily walk you home? '' she said as she held her hand on her back and the other one cradling her pregnant stomach. “ I don't want to see you go missing like so many women before you” her face taught with worry “Tsk tsk” i said turn to meet her gaze “ You need John more than I do, it's only a short walk down the road, I’ll be fine, I'll stick to the french quarter, they have those fancy cast iron lights now” I teased her “now remember what I said about the tea and stay off your feet'' she nodded and watched me walk to the end of the walk way, waving one final time as she closed the door.

Father certainly would disapprove of my lack of escorts but after seeing my patients I'd like to go over what we discussed and preparations I may need for next time. As one of the few midwives here in the French quarter, I was always summoned at every hour of the day and night. The sun was well past the horizon but the moon was full, the gas men won't be out tonight to light the street lamps, officials ordered, there was still plenty of light from the moon to guide my way home. Passing shop owners as they closed down for the night, Bourbon Street was rather quiet this evening. The local drunkards started to filter out into the moonlit night with their fallen women of choosing, ducking passed to avoid being insnared in that mess, I made my way across the cobble stone street as a woman let out a horrific shriek, looking back to see her, pinned to the wall as the man rutted into her.

I kept walking but collided with a wall of some sort. Losing my balance, I began to fall back when strong arms encircled my waist to keep me steady. I looked up into the face of my hero and it was the heroic Captain Syverson. In his confederate uniform. The long grey sleeves are lined with red, with a red cuff at the bottom. His three gold stripes on his shoulder blade indicate his status. He looked down at me with those cerulean blue eyes. The corner of his mouth was turned up in a crooked grin. “Well Ms. Hathaway, you need to be more careful where you are walking” he steady me on my feet, reaching down he grabbed my basket and handed it back to me. I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks “Thank.. Thank you Captain "I stutter trying to conceal my blushing face.

He cocked an eyebrow, “Where is your escort home? It's not safe to be walking the streets late at night "I brush away the imaginary dirt off my skirts “ I was just leaving The Davenports, Caroline is a dear friend and she is nearing the end of her pregnancy and is a nervous wreck.” i said with a slight smile “ I was admit that i would make it home just fine on my own, that she needed John more than I so hear i am” i let out a soft laugh, i seriously sounded so ridiculous, that even Logan was laughing “ My you are a stubborn thing, aren't you?” Straightening to his full height, he adjusted the sword on his side. “ Would you allow me the privilege to escort you the rest of the way home?” I nodded at him as he offered me his elbow, looping my right arm through his as we continued our walk towards my fathers home. We chatted softly amongst ourselves. I've never felt more relaxed in another person’s company, we laugh over the little things. We come upon the gate to my home, far too quickly. He opens the gate and allows me to pass by before closing the gate behind him. He walked me up to my front door.

We stood there for a few silent moments, stepping closer,while he cleared his throat “ Should you ever find that you are in need of an escort, especially at night, please feel free to send for me, no matter how late or how early.” he stepped back as my front door opened, it was Charlotte, our maid, she was a dear friend of mine and so curious about the work I did. The captain smiled up at her “Good evening, just making sure that Ms. Hathway made it home safely, with all these disappearances you can't ever be to safe” she smiled softly and in a soft voice “That is very kind of you Captain, her father would be quiet pleased by this'' she looked over at me “ Your father instructed me to wait for you before heading for home, he was called away on an emergency and will be back as soon as he can.” i nod “Thank you Charlotte, give me just a moment with the Captain, I’ll be right in” she nodded, curtsied and closed the door with a soft click

New Orleans 2023

“ I wanted to thank you again for escorting me home” he gave me a smile, his white canines flashing at me, as i went to turn and open the door, his hand gripping my jaw stopped me. I looked up into those blue eyes, swirling with so many feelings. He leaned in so close that his lips were centimeters from mine “I mean it Aurora, send for me, don't travel alone in the dark '' I nodded as I stared at his plump lips. He leaned forward and placed a soft kiss against my lips before pulling away and walking down the stairs “Have a good night Ms. Hathaway” I’m too stunned to speak as i watched him disappear into the foggy evening, hastily open the door, i let myself in and shut the door with a slam, as my cheeks turn pink, placing my basket and gloves on the table Charlotte rounded the corner, she just raised an eyebrow, she didn't have to say anything but i knew what she was thinking I waved her off “I’m off to bed, incase Caroline needs me” she nodded “Yes ma’am, have a good night” i thank her and make my way up to my room. Still thinking about the feeling of his lips on mine.

I was loading up my truck in the early morning sun, with the help of Gus, when a familiar smell washed over me. The smell of juniper, citrus and rose, I knew that perfume anywhere. It was her. But that was impossible, I lost her so long ago. Sliding the pocket watch out of my pocket, the one she had given so long ago, I opened it to reveal the only photo I possessed of her after that faithful night. I still remember everything about her. The way her porcelain skin flushed a beautiful shade of pink when I said something that caused her to blush. The way she lite up when she talked about something she loved. Her funny and silly demeanor that she fought so hard to hide. Her dedication to her patients, the way she slept on my chest on the night she managed to escape from her duties. With a sad smile I closed the pocket watch and put her back in my pocket. The scent grew stronger with a faint hint of green tea and honey. I tracked the scent across the street to the cafe, but it wasn't there, it was higher up, moving my eyes across the balconies when a flash of red caught my attention, i focused in on the girl, she lifted her gaze from her mug and met mine, those eyes, id recognize anywhere, where looking back at me with a slightly blush to her cheeks.

Syverson’s pov

She was just as beautiful as the last time I saw her, the same night, she died in my arms. That was over 150 years ago and it felt like yesterday I watched her breathe her last breath. She had the same striking green eyes, the freckles that peppered her skin, like a million little kisses from the sun. That same shade of red-hair, down to the middle of her back, where I'm sure she has those two dimples at the bottom of her spine just above the sweet swell of that curvy ass. I chewed on my lip as I took her in like I was seeing her again for the first time.

This first time we had met was at a founders day party. She was absolutely breathe taking in the emerald green gown, with black lace and beading on her bodice. Her black satin gloves up to her elbows. Her hair pinned back in elegant curls and around her neck was a simple silver and gold heart shaped locket, that she had inherited from her grandmother on her 13th birthday, that's what she told me. I starred at her for a few moments before I smiled and waved at her. Her cheeks flushing even more. Throwing my rag in the back of my pick up, I jog to just under her balcony, my body vibrating with the possibility that it was indeed my girl.

We bantered for a minute but I couldn't stand to not be this close to her and not have her in my arms. I jumped up and grabbed the railing of the balcony and hauled myself up with ease. She stood there with her mouth agape like a cod fish out of water.

I placed two fingers under her chin gently pushing it up with an audible click as her teeth met. I'm Logan and you are?" She took a few moments "Aurora, but most people call me Rory" I took a step closer and curled a strand of her hair around my finger " I think I prefer Aurora" I drank in her features I never wanted to forget them trailing my eyes down her neck and chest settling on the silver and gold heart shaped necklace that she had worn so many years ago, I gave it to her sister after passed, its what she would have wanted. I looked back up at her inquisitive face, her green orbs sparkled with amusement, and delight but also recognition. Some part of her soul remembered me. "I finally found you" I breathed. She looked at me with a quizzical expression,and one of my men whistled at me "Come on Syverson, we need to get going." I let out a low growl of annoyance at him before looking back up at her. " Till next time sugah" placing a soft kiss on the corner of her plump lips, I dropped down over the balcony and strutted over to my truck.

I looked at the few strands of hair I got off her shirt and looked at Gus " Come on old boy, we have a witch to find" he ground and rolled his head back " No way man you can drop me off, I ain't ever stepping foot in Ms. Freya's house again" I rolled my eyes at him " She isn't that terrifying" he looked at me like I was a edjit. " I swear that woman put some voodoo magic in my house and she always watching me" I belted out a laugh "Fine then you big baby" as I parked the truck I'm her driveway " you can stay here and wait for old Louise, I'm sure he misses you" his eyes widen looking around the property " on second thought going inside doesn't seem like such a bad idea after all" he quickly hopped out of the truck and on to her porch, I laugh at him as I climbed out, and up the stairs to visit an old friend.

Looking up one last time at my shining star, she stood there bewildered, a soft wind blowing her hair behind her. Looking over at my passenger seat, looking at my right hand man, Gus. "Kill joy" he just smirked at me as I drove down the bustling french quarter, looking back at mon cher as she leaned over the edge of her balcony till all I could see was her silhouette.

[geddy-leesbian]

Fic trick or treat! 🎃

okay so the original concept for the hotel Luis gets Leon pregnant in books for him and Leon for their last night before his tour in the second fic in the (main) rockstar AU was going to be in a stupid ass champagne towers room I stumbled upon pics of

I ended up shelfing that part of the concept and they instead smoked weed in a fancy but otherwise normal hotel bathtub

but it's fine, Luis does take Leon there for one of their anniversaries

“Pennsylvania. It's our anniversary, I've had two of your kids, you're a millionaire rockstar, and you're taking me to Pennsylvania? Seriously?”

“... Is there somewhere you want to go?” Luis asks, clearly ready to drop everything to do whatever Leon wants. “I can change the plans.”

“No. I'm just surprised. When you told me to pack a suitcase, I figured it was going to be some over the top romantic, expensive shit. Like somewhere in Europe, Paris? I don't know, you're the one that knows that kind of stuff. This is out of character for your dramatic ass.”

“We can do Paris next year. Or later this year,” Luis says, like a trip to Paris is nothing. “But for now, Pennsylvania!”

-

Leon remains mildly concerned that the destination is a sign of a head injury until they enter their hotel room and the first thing he sees is a gigantic champagne glass. The rest of the room is just as tacky, with another tub that's heart-shaped, and of course the bed is also heart-shaped and there's rose petals scattered everywhere. “This is why you picked Pennsylvania?” “Exactly! It's romantic, and you like your big bathtubs, there's two in here, I figured you'd like it.” “This is so fucking tacky. I can't believe I fake married you,” Leon says, dropping his suitcase to head up the stairs to the champagne glass because he is curious about this abomination. He sees Luis picking up his suitcase below while he turns the water on and calls out. “Don't unpack any of my shit! You don't get to see what lingerie I packed until it's on me, that's your anniversary present.” “You remember what happened the last time we got high in a bathtub together?” “I got pregnant?” “I'm afraid your memory betrays you. I got you pregnant the night before that. What happened when we got high was that you kept telling me how pretty I was, and how pretty the scar on my cheek is, and how hot it was that I could beat people up. Are you…” Leon completely zones out while Luis talks, staring down. “Oh my god. Why are we getting high up here, we're gonna have to go down stairs to get to bed, we're gonna die.” “We are not going to die,” Luis scoots over to the other side of the glass so he's next to Leon, and uses his hand to tilt Leon's face so he's looking at Luis's face, not the room below them. “Maybe you would if you were alone because you're a lightweight, but I'm here, this is nothing. I was actually drunk as fuck the night I beat that guy up. Possibly stoned too, don't remember. That was before I realized I didn't like playing music while under the influence, so I was usually on something those days. I can get down stairs high no problem, and I'll help you down. I'll even carry you if I have to. That's the whole reason I started working out, I just wanted to get strong enough to pick you up.” “Feels like you're just fishing to get me to say something about how it's hot that you're strong,” Leon slurs. “It is. Yeah. You're still not strong as my ex, but you're hotter, cuz you're safe too. When he picked me up, I'd be a mix of excited and worried about what new injury I'd have to hide. With you all I ever worry about is what piece of furniture you're going to set me down on and ruin. You're so much hotter too. Maybe I said that already. You're pretty. I want another baby.”

[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.

[lucius-morningstar]

The only one who can call me that (Part 2)

I honestly wasn't going to do parts but I thought of a cute idea for something similar but later on. Anyway Lucius regales in his tale of the last person who called him Luci. Though if he's honest this wasn't why he did it. ------- Lucius: Hey Angel- Angel: I'm still mad at you. Don't talk to me. Lucius: Hey it's on you man I told you not to call me that, even Vaggie gave you a warning, but I feel like that was just an incentive to do it more. Angel: It was, so did Vaggie ever call you Luci? Lucius: Nope, because unlike you when Charlie tells her a boundary she doesn't cross it, one of the few things I like about her. Angel: List must be small. Lucius: It is very small but if it makes you feel any better, the last guy who did it got a worse punishment. Angel: Whose the last guy. Lucius: He was another hell royal by the name of Seviathan Von Eldritch. It wasn't the only reason I did what I did but it was on the top three things. Angel: What happened? Lucius: Okay so the main reason I did it was because he hurt my sister.. Mentally speaking of course, man would not be alive today if he put his hands on her. Husk: Then what'd you do to him. Lucius: Well not so much what I did to him but how it effected him. I fucked his sister on live tv. Angel: You mean you did a porno with her? Lucius: Nope, I went onto that show "Yeah I fucked your sister, So What?!" back when it was still new. Royal drama really makes a show pop. So I had him come onto the show and basically video of me fucking his sister. Man it was awesome and the look on his face was just.. Just icing on the cake. My parents weren't too happy either but I played by their rule technically. I wasn't allowed to hurt him physically so I didn't. I fucked his sister though and it pissed him the fuck off. Angel: How'd Charlie feel about that? Charlie: How'd I feel about what? Lucius: Me fuckin Helsa to get back at Sev. Charlie: Ugh.. I can't say I was too thrilled about it but honestly you didn't hurt him which is something you promised me so I can't really fault you. Did you have to air that on tv though, there we're parts of you I really didn't want to see. Lucius: Sorry sis, small price to pay to get back at a piece of shit. Vaggie: Why'd you even fuck his sister? Lucius: Eh it got under his skin clearly. Honestly way more kinky then I thought she'd be. Learned all sorts of things I didn't know I was into. Charlie: Okay, I don't want to hear about that. Angel: Well unless you got something more exciting to share Princess I'm kinda curious. Charlie: Actually yes, me and Vaggie are going to be going to the sloth ring for an appointment and while it's confirmed I'd like to be sure. Lucius: Why are you going to the sloth ring. Charlie: Nothing serious, I just might be pregnant that's all. *She doesn't give him time to really think that through before she opens a portal and drags Vaggie in with her.* Angel: Wait w-..How is that even possible. Lucius: Magic, duh. Husk: You're taking this really well. Lucius: It's just a pregnancy scare nothing to worry about. Angel: ..3..2...1- Lucius: Pregnant, what the fuck Charlie?! Angel: There it is. ------ Vaggie: Hun, seriously that's how you planned to tell him. Charlie: I panicked and figured it'd be good to tell him while he's distracted. Vaggie: ..Well it's done now, lets go get you checked out okay. Charlie: At least telling dad will be easier. Vaggie: I hope so.

[shrinkthisviolet]

How about director's commentary on 'we'll give the world to you (and you'll blow us all away?'

Ooh gladly! Below the cut for length:

So this fic was written as part of Maiko "Halloweek" (so called because it was the week leading up to Halloween), aka Fall Maiko Week, back in 2020. Maiko was, and still is, one of my favorite ATLA ships, and writing this prompt also endeared me to Izumi too—I don't believe I'd seen LOK yet, though she's barely in it anyway.

One of the important aspects to me while writing this was implementing one of my headcanons: they got married relatively early, but waited a while to have kids. And part of that means they dealt with pressure about having an heir as soon as possible...mostly from the Fire Sages, who are worried that Zuko might die before conceiving an heir. And it's not that the worry is unfounded, but it's the persistence.

It was a nice chance, also, to highlight the Gaang's closeness. This is one of my favorite snippets of that:

…Zuko had the full force of the chi-blocking Kyoshi Warriors, a master waterbender, the Avatar, a master swordsman, a master earth- and metalbender, and a master knife-thrower behind him. Anyone who dared oppose him would fail, of that the Gaang (Sokka’s name for them, expanded to include the Kyoshi Warriors) was certain.

And also this, showcasing a little Maitara friendship:

... Mai found out from a furious Katara that they’d been approaching members of Team Avatar in an attempt to circumvent the royals.

“What’d you do?”

“Threatened to freeze them if they tried it again. But I’d keep my eyes peeled, just in case they didn't get the memo.”

The worst part is that even when they finally get the hint and back off in the pestering...the rumors don't stop:

The Fire Sages no longer brought up the need to have an heir, but Zuko and Mai had endeared themselves to the palace staff enough to know about the whispers. The sneers that perhaps the marriage was not as happy as presumed, that perhaps the Fire Lady had already been pregnant when they wed (apparently, some in the Fire Nation were praying that this was true, and Zuko had never felt like committing murder more than in that moment).

Of course, as stated later, the Fire Sages are spreading the rumors. The palace staff are too endeared to Mai and Zuko by this point...and the Fire Sages intend to force their hand however possible.

Also, this adorable Maiko moment, with a little Maiaang friendship:

“Since when are you into proverbs?” Zuko teased.

“I’ve been befriended by a certain Air Nomad,” she replied with a smirk. “It turns out, he and your uncle speak the same language.”

“And you’ve picked it up?”

“Unfortunately.”

And this one:

...he focused his efforts on the creation of the United Republic of Nations and enlisted Toph and Mai’s help in replacing the gossiping Fire Sages. When the Fire Sages protested, he simply said, “If you wanted my ear, you shouldn’t have insulted my wife.”

I love them 🥰 I will go down with this ship fr (that last line in particular...one of my favorites I've ever written)

Also...Mai telling Zuko she's pregnant under Yue's light (right after Zuko tells her Yue's story) is intentional, given that Izumi is born at the moon's peak—which itself is also intentional!

But back to that in a bit. For now...Mai and Zuko's shared anxiety was important for me to convey:

He looked at Mai very seriously and said, “Do you want this? Really, and truly, do you want to have this child?”

She looked back at him, first startled, then serious like him, and nodded firmly. “I do. But I also want to do it right. I want our child to know they’re loved, always, and that they never have to earn it.”

They both want their child, they want to do right by them, but they're scared too. And of course they'll do their level best and even beyond that, but that anxiety can be hard to shake. It takes time!

But now, back to Izumi:

Princess Izumi was born in late spring, at the moon’s peak, with a quick but steady breath in her lungs. It had been a difficult birth for her mother, and a stressful event for her father, and the fact that she had even lived to breathe was a miracle in itself.

As mentioned prior, Izumi being born at the moon's peak would likely be unusual for a firebender. Late spring itself probably isn't too strange, even if summer would likely be more auspicious.

Izumi has a little asthma at birth too! Nothing too serious, but she is the first (and only) child. I've never liked the hc that Mai dies in childbirth, or that she and Zuko stop having kids because of pregnancy complications...but as someone who's the eldest child, yeah, we are usually pretty difficult births (one of my baby cousins was too).

And then, of course...it gets worse, because Izumi doesn't have the Spark.

So here's the thing about the Spark: I've admittedly never been totally sure what it is, I've always imagined it as the sun hitting a baby's eyes in a specific way...but I also think it's superstition more than it's legit. Zuko didn't have a Spark either, and he's a formidable bender. It's probably an old wive's tale, and it rightfully Zuko off:

“You cannot have a nonbender heir,” another Sage snapped. “It has never been done!”

“I was presumed to be a nonbender upon my birth,” Zuko retorted sharply, “and I ask you to mind your tone. I am your Fire Lord and this child’s father. If you’d like to try appealing to my wife, I assure you, my feelings toward this pale in comparison."

...

“Believe me, she means it,” Zuko said coldly from the door, startling the Sages. “And so do I. One more step towards my wife or daughter, and I will not hesitate to incinerate you.”

Another fun part was writing Mai getting pissed too:

Unbelievably, they tried just that, not even giving Mai the courtesy of sleep before approaching her. Mai, being both sleep-deprived and furious that they would propose infanticide, warned,

“Get away from my daughter or she won’t be the one disposed of today.”

Any time I get to write her emotions, it's really fun for me, because she's usually such a reserved character, while I am very much not 😅 she's so unlike me, so it's always fun to dig into why she's like that (which I've done in other fics), and show her being more emotional as she marries Zuko and grows older, to show how she's grown and changed 💞

Zuko being protective of Mai was fun to write too...and him being protective of Izumi!! He loves her so much already 🥰 and speaking of which...I loved writing this first moment of him holding her:

“Getting sappy on me? Save that for Izzy.”

Zuko smiled at his daughter. “Hello, my little turtleduck. Don’t mind your mother. She loves us, really.”

Loved it so much that it ended up as the preview in the summary 😂

Also ofc, this scene with him and Izumi later:

“And this is the turtleduck pond, where the turtleducks live! Except you, of course, little one.” He pressed his forehead to hers. “You’re my little turtleduck, and you’re actually human, so you get to live in the palace with me and your mom!”

But Izumi caught sight of the turtleducks, who were squawking happily at her, and seemingly out of nowhere, she burst out crying.

“Oh! Oh, um..what’s wrong, Turtleduck?” The name only made Izumi cry harder, and Zuko winced. “Um...Izzy? Izumi? What’s wrong, sweetie?” Her crying didn’t abate, and Zuko flipped her on her stomach and over his shoulder, patting her back firmly in an attempt to burp her.

He gets so worried here, it's adorable 🥺 remember what I said earlier about how Maiko both want Izumi but they're scared/anxious, and both things coexist? This demonstrates that. Zuko's a little out of his depth, and it shows, and I loved writing this. No parents are perfect to start off, especially not parents like Mai and Zuko who are flying...mostly blind (with help ofc, but even so...they're the full-time parents). But they're determined to do right by Izumi no matter what.

Mai says something to that effect here:

“Look, Zuko. What you did, when she was crying? The way you panicked and tried to soothe her in any way you could? That’s the mark of a great father. That’s the mark of a father who cares, who might not have all the answers but still wants to try.” She smiled softly. “It’s leagues better than either of our fathers, I’ll tell you that.”

As Mai says, she's “full of good points”, and I’m quite inclined to agree 🥰

(Also, as a bonus, I got to throw a little shade at parts of the ATLA comics. Aang refuses to even consider killing Zuko, and Kei Lo is Mai’s ex, not her boyfriend. Ahh how I love throwing shade at the comics 💞)

director’s commentary ask game!

[sunhavenkitten]

Bundles of Love

Amari!OC x Jun

TW: Childbirth, emetophobia

Word Count: 3,283

Summary: Isabelle the cat Amari finds out she's pregnant with Jun's baby and undergoes the process of breaking the news to Jun all the way up to the birth.

Notes: I know the idea might not be very popular with everyone, but I decided to write in a water birth because I find the idea of water birth very interesting. I've also written a few birth fics and wanted to change things up. I hope that is okay! Thanks for reading!

✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯ ✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯ ✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯  

"Congratulations."

"Hm?" She hummed in confusion, replying to the man in the white lab coat.

"It looks like you don't have the flu after all. The persistent bouts of morning sickness you've been experiencing are because you're pregnant," he said with a relaxed smile.

The whole world seemed to stop for her right then and there. Was he serious? Well, of course he was. This was Wornhardt, after all. He was always serious. Especially about extra serious matters. She smiled then, though by her expression one would think she was in pain.

"I'm sorry. I think I'm feeling another bout of nausea..."

Wornhardt chuckled, "Well, it isn't a surprise that you'd be nervous. This is your first, isn't it?"

She nodded.

"I can recommend some tea and lemon first thing in the morning for the nausea. If it continues to be a problem let me know, and I can try and get some medicine that will be safe for both you and the baby... Is.. everything alright?"

After the question Wornhardt reached down and pulled out a round metal basin from a cabinet by the bed, handing it to Belle in case she really was going to be sick. He thought by the look on her face that she might be.

"Thank you Wornhardt, but I'm okay. I'm just shocked. I mean, we weren't really trying for a baby but... at the same time I suppose we weren't really trying to prevent it, either."

Wornhardt laughed, "Well, that's how it happens sometimes." Then, he replied more seriously, "But really, Isabelle, you don't have to worry about a thing. I'm going to give you and your baby the best care I possibly can. And I know Jun will be over the moon to find out."

She looked up at him then, "You think so? You don't think it will be too sudden?"

"You know Jun just as well as I do, if not more. He isn't one to worry in the face of something unexpected. He welcomes life with open arms."

She smiled to herself then, "You're right, Wornhardt. Thank you."

"Of course. And besides, he'll be glad to hear that nothing is the matter with you."

She looked up then, "What do you mean?"

"Well, Jun has noticed that you haven't been yourself lately, which I'm sure he's communicated with you. He was the one who asked me to take a look at you before you decided to finally come in yourself. He's been pretty worried."

Her ears went down as she frowned. Has she really been making Jun worry so much? She couldn't help but feel a little selfish for putting off this doctor's appointment when it could've been something to help put Jun's nerves at ease.

"I see. I guess I have an apology to deliver along with the good news."

Wornhardt smiled before proceeding to fill out her paperwork and send her on her way.

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

She waited until the end of the day to make her way over to Jun’s house. When she got there, Jun had been starting a pot of tea.

"Oh, Belle! I didn't expect you at this time. How are you feeling? Want to come in for some tea?"

"Hi, Jun. I'd love that," she replied.

Jun welcomed her in, guiding her to the kotatsu in his living room. She sat down and thanked him as he handed her a warm cup of tea.

"Actually, Jun, as much as I love your company, I was here because I wanted to talk."

Jun set his cup down, "Of course. You know I'm here to listen any time you want to talk."

She clutched her own cup to her chest. The warmth from the ceramic mug comforted and grounded her. She knew she didn't need to be so nervous, but she's never had a conversation like this before. She only hoped it went as well as Wornhardt seemed to believe it would.

"I went to see Dr. Wornhardt today."

Jun reached a hand out across the table as an offer for her to take it. She unclasped her mug and took his hand in hers. His expression didn't seem concerned. It was the same calm, gentle expression he always wore when listening to someone speak their heart. He was just letting her know he was there for her, whatever it may be.

"He said I'm pregnant."

After she spoke she bit her lip, her eyes scanning his face anxiously as realization slowly set in. His own eyes widened, sparkling like a set of amethysts as his lips began to part.

"Isabelle..." then, his face spread into a wide smile, "That's wonderful news!"

She finally set her cup down, nodding at him.

"I was worried that you wouldn't be ready," she admitted.

"Is that why you seemed nervous? True, having a baby is a huge deal. It's going to change our lives forever. But there isn't anyone else in the world I'd rather go on that journey with than you."

She smiled sweetly, "Jun..."

"I gave you my old journal a while back. I never asked you if you read it or not, but I wrote a lot about how it was one of my biggest dreams to find the love of my life, settle down, and have a family with them. You've made that dream come true. I feel like the happiest person alive."

He held her then, hugging her tight as she wrapped her arms around him. He spoke softly in her ear, his voice tinged with joy.

"No matter what, I'm always here for you. You can count on me and come to me for anything you need. I'll always be there for you..."

He pulled away then, resting a palm against her stomach as he continued, "...For both of you."

She smiled, tears stinging the corners of her eyes. Damned hormones.

"Thank you, Jun."

Jun wiped the tears from her lashes, giggling and smiling gleefully as he pressed his forhead against hers before kissing her. The tea long forgotten.

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

The next few months were a blur. She was still able to do her usual farming, adventuring, and exploring initially, but there were a series of long discussions about what would happen as she got further along. Exploring and adventuring would be out of the question, especially alone in places that were dangerous and riddled with monsters. She would receive help from different people in town when it came to her farm. At the very least, helping her water crops and keep them alive for the few months that she was ordered to keep hard labor to a minimum.

The time she didn't spend farming she spent gathering baby supplies, picking out names, and nesting her home so that everything was perfect for when baby came. She had already discussed with Jun the high possibility of having multiples. After all, it was fairly common for an Amari to have at the very least two or three, though not always, especially with hybrid pregnancies.

It didn't matter, Jun was a ball of excitement either way. Every time he thought of their future together or saw her stomach steadily getting bigger, it filled his heart with so much joy.

Everyone around town was buzzing with excitement when they heard the news. After all, in a town so small, it was always a matter of celebration when someone was growing their family and adding new little ones to the town of Sun Haven.

Catherine offered her healthy snacks and herbal remedies to help with any ailments she might be dealing with throughout her pregnancy. Kitty knitted onesies, complete with snaps on the back just in case they were born with tails. And Liam offered her so many hand-me-downs from his sisters, delighted that they might be put to use instead of adding to all the clutter in his small home.

She felt so safe and comforted by the people of Sun Haven, welcoming her and her baby with open arms and so much warmth. It often brought her to tears, and there was always a warm hand on her shoulder comforting her until the mood swing passed.

As she approached her due date, Jun made sure to keep his schedule more open so that he could spend more time with her, excited for the baby and wanting to take care of her as much as possible. Her back was often sore and she had gotten clumsier the bigger her belly got, which was quite large. Dr. Wornhardt suspected twins at least.

There were moments where she was nervous about motherhood or about the birth, and Jun was always right there comforting her.

"I'll be there with you the whole way. No matter what happens, we have each other."

Then, one day she was on her farm, tending to a few simple tasks like watering flowers and feeding the chickens when suddenly a rush of warm fluid soaked her pants. It had felt odd, almost like a rubber band snapping inside her. Right away she knew what it meant.

Luckily, Jun was in her home making some tea for when she came inside so that she didn't get dehydrated. When she entered her kitchen he turned to greet her, then saw the large damp patch covering her lower half. He stopped what he was doing and made his way over towards her, his voice as gentle as ever.

"Oh, did you have an accident sweetheart? That's okay. I'll help you get cleaned up."

"No, Jun. Actually, I'm pretty sure my water just broke."

Jun had been taking her hand, wrapping his arm around her waist to lead her to the bathroom when he paused.

"Wait, really?"

She nodded, and Jun smiled. Sure, there were nerves, but he couldn't contain his excitement at the thought that he would finally meet his little one soon. He took her face in his hands, kissing her and pressing his forehead to hers.

"Alright, make yourself comfortable, okay? I'll help you get changed then I'm going to run and tell Wornhardt. Will you be okay until I get back?"

She nodded once more, "I'll be fine. You don't have to help me change, I can do it myself. Besides, I'm going to hop in the bath anyway and rinse off."

He nodded, still helping her to the bathroom anyway and holding her hand as she stepped out of her wet pants. He didn't leave until the bath was running and he knew she safe and cozy in the tub. Then, he rushed out and jogged towards the hospital.

When Jun returned he immediately went to her side, seeing her hunched over the side of the bathtub gripping the edge for dear life. Her breathing was heavy and she was moaning in pain. Jun tucked her hair out of her face, though it was sweaty and stuck to her forehead.

"It's okay. I've got you. Remember to just breathe."

Jun breathed with her for a moment, helping her get back into the rhythm until the contraction passed. When she was more clear headed he gave her the news.

"You did so great, baby. I'm sorry I wasn't here when it started. Wornhardt will be here any moment. Let's get you out of the bath and into something nice and comfortable, alright?"

She nodded, feeling a little sick. Once she was out of the bath Jun helped hold her hair back while she was sick in the toilet, rubbing her back in soothing circles.

Afterwards, he helped her get on a cool, silky nightgown and coze up in the bed while he set up the bath for her water birth. She knew right away that she wanted a home birth, feeling much more comfortable in her space than in a hospital, but the water birth had been Jun's suggestion. He had read that it can help mothers experience less pain and feel more in control, and after some discussion with Wornhardt about the pros and cons of different birthing methods she had decided to go with it.

When Wornhardt finally arrived he was with a birthing assistant, someone from the hospital to help with the overall process. The assistant took over setting up the bath so Jun could be by Isabelle's side. He sat by the bed and held her hand while Wornhardt checked her dilation.

"Everything seems to be going along smoothly. You still have a ways to go, so just hang tight for now. My assistant and I will make sure everything is ready by the time active labor begins."

Jun was grateful that he had read so many books to prepare for this moment. He had read every pregnancy and parenthood book the library had to offer, so thankfully he wasn't left in the dark about any part of the process. It helped put his nerves at ease so he could better support her.

As time went on her contractions slowly started to get longer and stronger. She went for a walk around the farm and let Jun massage her lower back when the pain got too intense. After a couple hours, Wornhardt checked her cervix again to reveal that she was dilated past 6cm, and her labor would start to progress much faster now.

As the contractions became unbearable she held onto Jun's hand tight, struggling to breathe properly as the pain encompassed everything inside her. That's when they decided to move her to the bath, hoping the warm water would help soothe the pain, even just a little.

Things increasingly got more intense. Soon, the contractions almost felt like more than she could take. She was so grateful that they would eventually pass, but when she was in the midst of a particularly bad one, it felt like it would go on forever. Momentarily, she worried that not opting to be in the hospital was a bad idea. What if something went horribly wrong? What if she really couldn't take the pain?

Jun eventually got in the bath with her, holding her hand through contractions and helping put pressure on her lower back to relieve some of the pain. With him there she started to feel more at ease. He constantly gave her encouragement and reassurances, telling her she was strong and that she could do this. It filled her with a renewed sense of vigor.

In the end, she appreciated his support in massaging her and encouraging her from inside the tub, but ultimately she felt more comfortable with him being outside of the tub when things started to really kick into gear. He was happy to help her any way he could, still holding her hand tightly and offering her encouraging words from just outside the bath. Soon, it was finally time to push.

"Wornhardt... I feel an urge to push."

Wornhardt was putting on a fresh pair of gloves as he came over to the birthing pool.

"I'd say that sounds about right for how far along you are. Go ahead and listen to your body. If you feel an urge go ahead and push. When the contraction passes you're free to take a break."

She cried out as she bore down and began pushing, feeling like she might break Jun's hand. The pain was incredible. Unlike anything she had ever felt before, but it was as though her body knew exactly what to do about it. She didn't feel scared and helpless like she thought she would. She felt completely in control, allowing her body to give her the right signals and following them accordingly.

As the contraction died she caught her breath, panting heavily while Jun wiped her forehead with a cool cloth.

"You're doing so well, baby. You've got this. Just a little more," Jun cooed by her ear.

As the next wave of contractions hit she began pushing again, everything feeling more intense this time around. Luckily, Jun knew exactly what to do without her even needing to say anything. He was calm, supportive, and let her lean her head against him when the fatigue got to be too much.

"The head is starting to crown. Jun, would you like to see?" Wornhardt asked, reaching into the pool.

Jun nodded. He didn't let go of Belle's hand as he scooted around the tub, peering into the water and seeing one of the most amazing sights he'd ever seen in his life. All he could think about was the awe and respect he had for his love, and the excitement that the baby was almost here. He could literally see them. Soon, they'd be in his arms.

"Give me one more good push, Belle," Wornhardt encouraged.

She cried out loudly as she did so, her scream filling the room yet barely being processed by anyone as the whirlwind of events followed suit. The baby came out and Wornhardt caught them and brought them up above water in one swift motion. He set the baby against mom's chest, and her arms wrapped around them tight as she caught her breath.

Jun was simply mesmerized. His face lit up and he was right back at Belle's side, reaching his arm out towards the baby as it took its first breaths. Overcome with joy, all he could do was press his head against Belle's and stare at the little bundle in her arms. Wornhardt's assistant checked the time, wrote something down, then wrapped a towel around the baby's small body.

The assistant's voice was kind and gentle, "Do you mind if I take her? It seems you aren't done yet."

Isabelle nodded, reluctant to let her baby go but at the same time ready to get back to business. Jun watched longingly as his daughter was whisked away by the assistant, but he was soon distracted by the doctor.

"Jun, do you want to help me catch baby number two?"

Jun was ecstatic. Wornhardt gave him a quick set of simple instructions and Jun was at the ready as the next round of pushing quickly revealed baby number two into the world. This time, the process was much easier and faster than the first, and before he knew it the baby was sliding into his arms. Gently, Jun lifted them up out of the water, smiling gleefully as he set them on mom's chest.

A son and a daughter. Jun felt like the luckiest person who ever lived. Wornhardt let the two of them snuggle while he checked on the little girl. Afterwards, Jun helped cut their umbilical cords while Belle passed the placenta and got cleaned up and moved to the bed.

She was so glad to see that Jun wasn't squeamish or put off by any of it at all. He seemed enchanted. Like everything going on around him was exciting and beautiful, and she was the center of it all right up until their little bundles entered the scene.

Once all the excitement and flurry of medical processes passed it was just the four of them snuggling up in bed with a baby on each of their chests. Belle would fall in and out of sleep, smiling to herself each time she woke up and saw her little boy wrapped up safely on her chest, his fluffy black tail wiggling as it was swaddled in the blanket. Jun was cuddled in bed beside her, torn between staring at his daughter, his son, and his worn out lover whom he had fallen in love with all over again.

He couldn't be more thankful for the journey that their lives had blessed upon him, and he would do his best to show his family that every single day.

[coconutcows]

Augh Reddit's terrible about that sort of thing, I'm sorry they question your competence over literally any comment... It's very frustrating too how, when you tell them that insult was absolutely unnecessary, they say it's a public forum and they don't NEED to ask for your permission to speak. Even if they're deliberately being an asshole!!! 😒 (That's been my experience, at least.)

Honestly, it doesn't make any sense why people act so put-upon because other people need more explanations- not everyone can glean what the story is trying to say in it's totality; isn't that kinda what fandom's about anyways????

You're not alone either! I didn't know about Anya's sexual assault at Jimmy's hands!! Like yourself, I thought it was domestic violence and the two already had an established romantic relationship, NOT that she was violated and forced to interact with her abuser. Only figured that out after... you guessed it, looking at the comments!

On a more positive note, your posts about Mouthwash made me finally see what all the fuss was about, and it's a very, VERY good game! I've even recommended it to a friend who's very interested in it, and that wouldn't have been possible without your passion! :>

It was very intriguing seeing how the characters interacted and what their thought processes were, all from the perspectives of people who were pretty biased. Anya, Swansea, and Daisuke grew on me the most but all the characters have personality! Speaking of characters, which one(s) are your favorite(s) and why? I'd love to know!

P.S. Congrats on the new lease! May your new home be sturdy and lacking mold!

Ah, I’m sorry to hear people have been so rude to you on Reddit, I don’t know why people are so brazen and self-centred there. Luckily the worst encounter I’ve had was someone calling me “Smoothbrained” for saying men and women aren’t actually that different about a picture of cis female athletes being called men (Don’t go on the facepalm subreddit, it’s a nasty one). Mostly though I just get people asserting their intelligence over mine, even if they’re just like completely wrong. I once commented that Lagoona Blue from Monster High is amphibious like a frog meaning she can breathe on land and in water. Someone replied to me saying “Frogs can’t breathe in water”, which puzzled me so hard I had to google it because I thought I’d missed out on some big frog news since I was in third grade. Nope, they do breathe underwater, I mean how else would they hibernate right??

And yeah, I’ve always thought that’s what fandom is about!!! Sharing thoughts and opinions and appreciation for something with likeminded people. Attitudes like that are what make people scared to become involved with a fandom community. Interesting way to put it also, about a story’s totality, because I’ve actually been thinking about making a post about how little information we actually get in Mouthwashing, and how what we get is tightly connected to the story it tells without branching out. You know, despite my lack of media literacy lol.

But yeah, the first couple watches I just thought maybe they had a casual thing, or a fling, and Anya wound up pregnant with the more common plot line being She wants to Keep It and He wants her to Get Rid of It, willing to kill her to get his way. Which is unfortunately common irl and realistic enough I didn’t question it. With the lock question I thought she was worried about him attacking or killing her, not that she had already been violated y’know? Im not used to rape and sexual assault being taken seriously, least of all in the horror genre where it’s normally used for shock value.

And that’s huge if true!!!! My thoughts and stuff being the reason someone checks something out is super cool, I’d never think something like that’d happen tbh. I’m super self conscious so I hold back a lot on saying things and making posts about stuff. I’m glad you enjoyed it!!! I couldn’t say why, but you know how people will talk about a piece of media fundamentally changing them as a person?? Mouthwashing is that for me. It scratched something in my brain and it will not let go.

I love all the characters!!! Well, except Jimmy, but even admittedly he is a good well written character. There’s purpose behind hating him rather than just someone people find annoying.

Anya is a sweetheart, she’s trying so hard, she wants to help people, and out of everyone on the ship she’s the loneliest. I hate that she kills herself so much but in a bittersweet way it is nice she went out on her own terms rather than at Jimmy’s hands. We also know so so little about her, everything we know is tied to her womanhood rather than her as a person, and I think most people can see her experience growing up, or know someone who did, with her being meek, quiet, and withdrawn.

Swansea I’ve mentioned in the tags of some reblogs but he reminds me a lot of some of my family members, particularly my deceased Great Uncle, who was very gruff and liked to pick and tease and wouldn’t mince words but had a big heart. Plus an older character willing to go apeshit to protect younger/more vulnerable people is always aces in my book (and the developers seem to have a soft spot for him so they’ve done some fun stuff)

Daisuke really is a little angel with a halo made of hibiscus flowers. He’s miserable there but he’s trying so hard. All he wants is to make people proud and in the end it got him killed.

And Curly, I could write a long block of text for him but I’ll try to keep it shortish. I love Curly, he’s been the image of the game forever. My opinion of him did sully when I realized what happened with Anya, but I can’t hate him. Partially I just grew too attached to post crash Curly, but also some people act as though he literally helped Jimmy with the assault when really all the pre crash stuff took place over a week. I don’t think he was going to Help Jimmy, I think he was just trying to figure out what to do and keep Jimmy calm until they could get to some form of authority. If he knew Jimmy was volatile he wouldn’t want to jostle that bomb, which makes sense as to why he got panicky when Anya told Jimmy alone and when Jimmy decided the best course of action was KILLING THEM ALL IN A CRASH TO HIDE HIS CRIME.

I have so many more thoughts since this game has been rotating in my brain for nearly a month now. There’s so much more there and I really look forward to Wrong Organs future endeavours (also really recommend How Fish is Made and it’s DLC, The Last One and Then Another which features Curly post crash if you haven’t already. AlphaBetaGamer has playthroughs of both those as well)

And thank you!!! 😊 it’s a very nice place and definitely mold free lol

[dualnaturedscientist]

It didn't make things any better for Doohickey when it was clear in the assassin's expression that he was down right furious. Knowing what he truly did for a living made him fear for his safety all the more. "You and I. We need to talk." Victor's tone was honestly terrifying itself. Doohickey couldn't help but gulp in fear. Nodding as quickly as he could. If he had tried to speak, it would've come out in terrified squeaks. Victor immediately placed a hand to his shoulder, guiding the poor guy over to the couch. His grip was surprisingly strong enough to actually cause some pain. The former scientist was forced to take a seat. Victor sat himself next to the other. He still hadn't released Doohickey. This seemed to be an extra measure so that he wouldn't be able to turn himself into a puddle and run away as fast as he possibly could. "You do realize that I can track you down quite easily. Right?" Too frightened to respond verbally, Doohickey nodded once more. In his mind, he was already saying goodbye to the world. "Good. Now that you won't run off on me. Let's talk." Victor was usually calm. Rather easy going but right now he was just intimidating. Finally releasing him from his death grip. "So. Why haven't you proposed to her yet?" This caused Doohickey to stop shaking and stare at the assassin with wide eyes. He had gotten up without a word. Which caused Victor to start to chase after him until the former scientist finally spoke up. "Wait. Please. I'll be right back." Victor decided to allow this. After all, he could easily track him down. A few minutes later Doohickey had finally come back. Holding a little black box in his hands. "I've been wanting to. For quite awhile. It's just never been the right time though. I'm thinking of asking her to marry me after the baby is born. So she wouldn't have to deal with the stress of wedding planning while pregnant. It's just that I haven't had the right opportunity to yet. I've tried. Either something comes up or I lose my nerve trying to pop the question. It's really not that I haven't thought about it. I really have as you can see." Victor's expression softened just a tad bit. Though he wasn't going to let him off the hook. "Now that is out of the way. Have you considered the possibility of what could happen? With the child? You already know how hard my brother took it with Becky. Thinking that something could happen similarly to Emily. It worries me. I'm going to put this out in the air. If you cause her any distress, any sadness. Directly or indirectly. I'm going to take you down without a second thought." Doohickey couldn't help but gulp in fear once again. Gene's family was absolutely terrifying. "Threats aside. What would you do if the child is sickly? Or worse. We don't know how it would affect her. Being a clone herself as well as your whole metaloid DNA. It might bring heartache to my sister. If something happened." His expression turned into worry. That thought never occurred to him. Victor was right. "Then I'll deal with it. With her. I won't leave her side. I'll take care of our child as well. I love her. Emily is...she's my world. You know. I'd never intentionally hurt her. Even if our child comes with complications. I'm not going to leave her. Even if I fear you. I love her even more. Whatever may come, I'm staying by her side." Doohickey had a determined expression. Though he was still somewhat shaken from earlier. Victor's eyes widened. Looking at the man with a whole new perspective. He could see what Emily saw in the guy. Victor saw that Doohickey was truly dedicated to Emily. The love in his eyes when speaking of her. Before either of them could finish their talk, there was a frantic pounding at the door. Causing poor Doohickey to jump in fear. Victor would've laughed at the sight if he could. He wanted the guy to take his words seriously. “Are you going to answer that?” The assassin finally spoke up as whoever was at the door knocked once more.

Heart of chaos

A year had passed since the B.E.A.W Labs organization had fallen. Since all the events had taken place. Becky being taken along with Bob. The poor girl being experimented on by a cruel scientist who had no love for anyone but himself. Matthew had broken out of the facility with her, Carl and Steven. Gene's true identity being revealed along with losing his Dr.Two-Brains persona. Shocking revelations unfolded. Betrayals and redemption. Things had calmed down significantly since but that didn't mean life had been dull. It certainly wasn't for Fair City. Especially with the villains, heroes and its eccentric inhabitants livening up the city. Becky had been making a wonderful recovery. Though she still wasn't at her full recovery Becky was still making so much more progress than the year prior. Gene still had identity issues, dealing with the loss of Squeaky. Though he didn't go through it alone. The still mad scientist had his family and friends help him through everything. Matthew and Carl took up residency within the city. A house that wasn't too far from their sons. Life in this place was definitely lively and peaceful in comparison to the hellish place many innocent souls were imprisoned in. Matthew was less exhausted than before. Relaxing within the living room in his son's house, watching whatever was put on the television. Matthew felt his eyes beginning to droop. Sleepiness hitting him out of nowhere. He simply allowed himself to doze off, not fighting it. Knowing that he was safe there. It wasn't until he felt weight on him that Matthew opened his eyes. Usually a dog or cat would be the cause for this but Matthew met many eyes. Fluffy had snuck into the house yet again. A small warm smile spread across his facial features, patting the spider on its head. Fluffy leaned into Matthew's hand, making soft happy noises. It was funnily cute to him. Though he understood as to why Gene was so afraid of him. Even Carl was squeamish around the giant spider. “Aw, who's a good boy? You are! You're a good boy!” Matthew couldn't help but baby talk the arachnid. He looked up, wriggling his chelicerae in response. As to say ‘Me! I'm a good boy!’ He chuckled at that, giving Fluffy gentle scritches. It was like a huge puppy in a spider's body. Though the peacefulness was interrupted by a sudden shout. “NO! WHY IS IT HERE AGAIN?!” Gene was in the doorway of the living room. Looking quite terrified at the huge arachnid. Fluffy instantly moved around on Matthew's lap to look at Gene. Excitedly jumping off of the supervillain's lap in favor of his son. He bolted right for the mad scientist, causing him to yelp loudly and make a run for it. “SOMEONE KEEP THAT ABOMINATION AWAY FROM ME!” Matthew gave a small laugh. “Can't help but feel abit rejected there.” Archie, who was quiet until then, responded. “I know that feeling.” This caused Matthew to jump up startled. “Don't do that! I'm old. Also I could accidentally blast you.” Archie blinked in confusion. “You didn't notice me? I came in with Fluffy. He got loose and snuck into the house. I just came to bring him back before he got to Gene. Too late for that now.” Archie frowned. “I can't help but be jealous at how much Fluffy loves him. Though Gene is terrified of him. That spider just won't listen to me when it comes to his favorite person.” He shook his head disapprovingly. “You want me to help you?” Matthew was being genuine with his question. He didn't want his son dying of fright from the giant arachnid. “That would be greatly appreciated. I have to take him back home. He can't avoid taking his medication this time.” Matthew got up, stretching first before doing anything else. This earned him a strange look from Archie. “What? I said I'm old. If I don't stretch I'll pull a muscle.” The hero shrugged. “Let's go get him soon. I have to look after Charlotte as well.” Archie always had the brightest smile when Charlotte was brought up. Either by him, Sunshine or anyone else. It was sweet. “Alright, alright.” They were completely unaware of an enemy observing them. Waiting.

Miss Power growled in frustration at the display she was witnessing through a window to the Boxleitner or rather the Woods household. A display she thought was very disgusting. How badly the alien conqueror wanted to charge right in their and obliterate everyone in her sights. She couldn't do her usual tactics and tricks right now, not after what she learned after coming back. She was still ticked off after that little alien brat Wordgirl and her parents dupe and tricked her into leaving the planet in defeat. There was no way she could go back to her planet and face her people with such a shameful stain to her otherwise brilliant record. Fueled by revenge and hatred, Miss Power spent her time preparing, training, and waiting so she could exact her revenge against those who wronged her, against the little hybrid girl and her freak of a family that humiliated her. Sadly when Miss Power and her loyal sidekick Colonel Gigglecheeks did decide to return, they were not prepared for the recent changes that had happeend in their absence. Miss Power did not care much for this Darius person or B.E.A.W labs, she had seen those like them a dime a dozen before on other worlds. The alien wished she could have congratulated the person who tortured and dehumanized Wordgirl and her sidekick. If it was up to her, Professor Ross Moran would receive high honors among her people for his actions. She did give her condolences at his unmarked gravestone. While the recent trauma Wordgirl and her sidekick have suffered gave Miss Power an opportunistic advantage, the alien conquerer unfortunately could not risk using it especially with her grandfather around. Miss Power was amazed at hearing about the past and recent exploits of Maddrix the Malicious. She was shocked that someone so bloodthirsty and powerful was the father of that scientist who used to have a mouse brain attached to his skull as well as a weird cheese obsession. To her disappointment, Miss Power could clearly see the man was too human and had regretted his actions in the past. Actions that would have made him highly respected among her people despite him being human. Still Miss Power wasn't going to risk striking back while that old coot was still alive. Age did not always equate to weakness according to what she had been taught. Even though he was old, Maddrix was clearly still powerful. It was likely that her and Gigglecheeks would wind up dead by the man's hands before they could claim revenge and victory. A chittering sound snapped Miss Power out of her musings. She turned her head to see her sidekick give her a concerned look. He chittered again and asked 'So what are we going to do?' Miss Power smiled and scratched her sidekick's head which he enjoyed. "Don't worry Colonel Gigglecheeks. We'll get our revenge soon. We just need to learn more about Mr. Malicious and what weaknesses he might have so we can use it to defeat him." Miss Power cooed. She then took her sidekick and flew off without anyone being the wiser. Miss Power was brash and bold and could be tricked sometimes, but she was no fool. The alien conqueror learned long ago that the best way to win your battles was to be prepared and know your enemy more than they know themselves. Carl sighed with relief and slight exhaustion as he sat down in a comfy chair. He had just finished sweeping the floor of his and Matthew's home. Now all he had to do was sit and relax until his husband got home. Carl wanted to try a nice 'mom and pop' owned restaurant that one of Gene's friends, Chuck, had recommended to the man. Carl had been itching to get out and do something more and more recently. If he had to be honest, he was getting bored. In the past, Carl had his job and work as a scientist to keep him occupied along with spending time with his husband and kids. Unfortunately after his 20 year imprisonment, Carl couldn't step in another official science lab ever again without a severe anxiety and panic attack @dualnaturedscientist

[butwhyduh]

B, I was rereading your content again (sometimes you just have to revisit the greats) and the pregnancy scare headcanons are always great to me. So, we know how the boys would react to being directly involved in said scare, but what if it was batsis and one of their friends?

I don't have any specific friend in mind for this idea, so it's kind of like. A free space? Like, it could be Dick finding out about Garth or Wally (I know you're still working on figuring him out, so there's no pressure there) and his sister, or Jason with Roy (or Kyle, I've seen them be friends in some fics but I don't know a lot about them) or like. Tim with Kon. Older Damien with Older Jon is also a possibility if you're feeling up to it, since the prompt isn't inherently sexual beyond how pregnancy comes to be (facts of life and all) but I'd totally understand if you wanted to rule that one out entirely right out of the gate. Literally any pairing fits. Hell, you could even do something with Bruce's sister (a bat aunt I guess??) with anyone in the league.

There's something about the concept of the "brother's best friend" thing that's hilarious because the brother gets the whiplash of like "I'm glad it's you because I know you and I know you would never hurt my siblings on purpose but also this definitely feels like a HUGE violation of the bro code, and I might need to think about punching you a tiny bit until I get used to the thought of you two being a thing, let alone possibly making an entire baby together"

Oooooo drama

Okay so I’m gonna go with

Reader x Roy Harper w/ Dick finding out

Reader x Kyle Rayner w/ Jason finding out

Reader x Kon Kent w/ Tim finding out

Reader x Ghost Maker w/ Bruce finding out

Stories under the cut, this got long with a lot of different stories so please let me know what you think!!

Roy Harper x batsis!reader

Again. It happened again. Roy felt frozen. Then he looked at you. It was different. You were together. It wasn’t a fling. It was totally different. And he couldn’t help but pull you into a hug. Your eyes were wet and you looked so scared.

“Hey, don’t worry. Whatever you want, I’m there. Don’t worry,” he said wiping tears from your face. You nodded and closed your eyes while leaning into him. Roy hugged you close.

A knock at the door broke your hug.

“Shit, Dick is here to pick me up,” Roy said.

“I- okay. I’m just gonna wash my face and it’ll be fine,” you said. You hurried to the kitchen and splashed water on your face as Dick walked in.

“Hey,” he said to you both. “What’s the matter? You’ve been crying.”

Dick turned to look at Roy critically. Damn his perceptiveness.

“Sad movie we just finished. I’m a sucker for them,” you said and he nodded, appeased.

“Hey I’m gonna use your bathroom real quick before we leave,” Dick said before jogging to the bathroom. Your eyes widened as you realized the test. The pregnancy test on the counter. Oh fuck.

“What the shit? Are you- did you get my sister pregnant?? Someone answer me,” Dick said walking in the room with the pee stick. You winced.

“Dick, calm down,” you said moving towards him but he was faster than you and landed a right hook to Roy in the jaw. He fell back hard. You shrieked.

“Dick!” You gasped. Roy sat up and rubbed his jaw from the floor.

“You knocked up my sister? You didn’t learn how that shit works the first time,” Dick roared.

“Dick, quit,” you pleaded.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I didn’t- this isn’t-“

“I’m on the pill. I don’t know how it happened,” you told him. Dick looked at you softly. Concern was written all over his face. “It’s not his fault.”

“Seriously? You’re- you’re pregnant?” Dick asked you. He walked closer.

“Maybe? We don’t know. I haven’t been to the doctor or anything,” you shrugged shyly.

“Add you gonna- don’t answer that. You don’t have to tell me,” he corrected himself. Dick looked over you to Roy that was standing to the side.

“If you do not treat her right and be a good dad if she’s pregnant, I’ll make sure the only bow you’ll be able to touch is the ones Lian puts in your hair because you’re in a body cast,” Dick threatened.

“I wouldn’t. You know I wouldn’t do that. I’m here for anything,” Roy said seriously. Dick stared at him.

“I know you’re good for Lian. Come on. We got a job. And you owe me dinner. And a beer,” Dick added. “For like a month.”

“Aw, alright, alright,” Roy added seriously after he started to joke. He gave you a hug and kiss on the cheek before dashing out the door.

———————————

Kyle Rayner x batsis!reader

“Go buy the box. Just at the corner store, Ky. I felt like I’m gonna throw up for like the last 3 mornings and now I’m freaking out. Please,” you said, shooing him to the door.

“Okay, yeah babe, which one?” Kyle asked looking more flustered than when he fights intergalactic monsters.

“Literally any. Actually 2 of any variety. Pretty sure they all work the same,” you said and he ran out the door before coming back.

“My wallet,” he said before running back out.

Kyle ran in the store and looked at the variety of tests. Pink, purple, early, ovulation, gender tests. You can learn that from a test?? Fuck was there too many choices. He grabbed 2 at random and hurried to the register. As his bag was being handed to him and his credit card was being swiped, Kyle felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned quickly.

“Woah bro. You alright? I called your name.”

If Kyle could think of a worse person to see at this exact moment it would only be Batman. There he was with a bag containing only a pregnancy test for his girlfriend and her brother, his friend, was right there. His detective trained friend. Kyle was glad he wore the lantern ring at that moment.

“No, I wasn’t paying any attention,” he said with an awkward laugh.

“My sister at home?” Jason asked walking beside Kyle.

“Yeah, yeah she is,” Kyle answered. He could feel himself sweating. It was hot but not that hot. What if Jason noticed him sweating too much?

“Cool. I’ll walk with you,” Jason said with an easy grin “you getting sick?”

“What?! No. I’m fine. It’s just hot. Today,” he said pushing the elevator button back at the apartment building.

“Yeah, you’re like real sweaty, Bro. What’s in the bag?” Jason asked. “Like if you’re sick and I got on the elevator with you, I’m kicking your ass because I can’t handle being sick.”

“I’m not sick. I’m fine,” Kyle said a little too forcefully.

“Okay,” Jason said side eyeing Kyle. Kyle’s fingers were white with grip on the bag and Jason subtly eyed it but couldn’t tell anything.

“Hey you’re- Jason!” You yelped as you saw your brother right behind Kyle. Kyle gave you the bag quickly with a wide eyed look.

“Hey, how are you?” Jason asked while giving you a hug.

“Good. Good,” you said with a new level of stress. Why the fuck was your brother here now?

As if by the magic of luck in a series of unfortunate events, through the cheap quality of the bag to begin with and the tightness Kyle had been holding it, to the slight way you swung it away from you when hugging Jason; it broke. The content flopped on the floor slightly behind you and yo the right which just happened to be the perfect angle for Jason to view the contents.

“…. Is this a… a pregnancy test??” He asked after automatically picking up what you dropped. And that felt like the moment you’d soul left your body. The moment your brother held a pregnancy test and asked if it was yours when you both already knew the answer.

“Uhh- well, yes,” you said. He stared at you for a second.

“And…” he promoted.

“Nothing. Nothing,” you tried to play it off.

“Holy shit. That’s why you look sick. You knocked my sister up. Holy shit,” Jason says turning to Kyle. Kyle stood back a little.

“Jay,” you said putting your hand on his shoulder. Jason frowned heavily at you. “Don’t get mad.”

“I’m already mad. I’m deciding if I’m going to shoot him,” Jason said with a horrible smile at Kyle. Kyle’s ring started to glow a little.

“No. There will be none of that. Jason don’t even think about it,” you said. He glared at Kyle.

“When you least expect it, Lantern,” he said nastily. “I gotta go before I break his pretty face.”

“Jason!”

“Love you did but gotta go,” he said before leave. As he left out the door he grabbed a set of keys and threw them and hit Kyle directly between the eyes.

“Ow,” Kyle said rubbing his face.

“Okay I’m gonna take that test now,” you said.

“Oh god. Wait. Wait,” Kyle said walking over to you. “Whatever. I’m here.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah,” he said nodding.

3 days later Jason just shoots a whole damn clip at Kyle while he holds up a green lantern construct guard.

——————————

Kon Kent x Batsis!reader

Kon woke up one day to a sound he didn’t quite understand. Heart beats. Fast heart beating. First he looked over at you sleeping but no you had a steady normal beat you always had. He listened closer and with a little maneuvering, realized what he heard. Kon fell out of bed in shock. What had he done?

You rolled over to look at him on the floor in sleepy confusion.

“What’s the matter, my alien lover?” You said with a grin.

“Yeah, yeah, speaking of. There is something we need to talk about,” he said. Kon didn’t know how to bring it up. It worked the other way where the woman announced she was pregnant.

“What’s the matter?” You asked with a frown.

“Nothing bad like that. Well, maybe. Uhh that’s up to you and your choices, that I totally support-“

“Conner, what are you talking about,” you asked fully awake.

“You have two heartbeats,” he said and you stared at him for a second.

“I have an irregular heartbeat?”

“No, you have 2 different heartbeats. In your body,” he said and you froze at the realization.

“Are you- are you saying I’m pregnant???” You asked sitting up and feeling nauseous suddenly.

“Probably. Yes. I haven’t been wrong about this yet. I won’t do any x ray viewing for safety,” he said. Kon climbed back on the bed and took your hand that was shaking.

“I just- I didn’t think it was be this soon. I thought we’d be…” you trailed off before you finished your sentence but Kon got what you meant. You’d been together for 2 years and living together for almost a year so the talk wasn’t a complete surprise.

“Married?” He filled in and you nodded. “We can, if you want.”

“Not like this,” you frowned. Your alarm on your phone rang. “Oh shoot. I’ve got to pick up Tim from the airport!”

You got up and started changing clothes. Kon froze while watching you for a second before throwing clothing on over the boxers he wore. He couldn’t help if he thought you were smoking hot.

The hot summer air hit different when you knew you were going in a perfectly climate controlled car that Bruce had bought you. Kon threw on some shades and laid back the passenger seat as you pulled out of the driveway.

“We tell Tim nothing,” you said. “He’s a worrier. We’ll tell him when we have a plan and he won’t freak out.”

“Okay. You aren’t- you aren’t freaking out,” Kon asked watching you. He was listening to both heartbeats coming from your body and noted yours was slightly faster than normal.

“I’m definitely freaking out. But we can figure things out later,” you said. Kon just nodded before looking out the window. Bat emotion suppression ran in the family.

“Timmy,” you cried before pulling him in a tight hug. He smiled and let you pull him around. “I haven’t seen you in months!”

“We’ll, somebody had to move to California,” he teased. “Hey Kon.”

“Somebody could use a tan,” he teased while also giving Tim a hug before climbing in the car.

“Not a thing in Gotham. Plus, I’m only going to be here for a week,” Tim answered. “But I do want to have some fun. I heard parasailing is great. What do you think?” He asked you.

“No! I mean- that’s a bad idea,” Conner said. Tim turned and looked at him.

“What are you talking about? Aren’t you the one that likes to drag her to the top of the Golden Gate Bridge to make out?” Tim asked.

“Well- uhh…”

“I’m getting over a stomach bug,” you lied.

“Okay, tell me the truth,” Tim said looking between you both. “Both of you are acting weird.”

“We’re not,” you protested.

“Then go parasailing with me.”

“She can’t,” Kon answered too quickly and you palmed your face. Tim looked at you dryly as you pulled in to the parking garage of your building.

“Yeah…”

“Fine. We’ll tell you inside,” you said after a pause. Tim grabbed his bag and nodded.

“We will?!” Kon asked with wide eyes. He was literally floating off the ground. You pulled his arm and he touched down.

“I can’t lie to Tim,” you shrugged. Tim sat his bags down and looked at you expectantly.

“Alright. I’m pregnant,” you said, holding the counter nervously.

“I knew it! That was my first thought,” he says triumphantly. “You’re pregnant. Oh god, you’re pregnant?”

“Yeah?” You said and Kon watched Tim closely.

“How far along? Have you been to the doctor? Do you take vitamins?” Tim said pacing. He pulled his phone out in a rush as if he was going to immediately order some.

“Woah, we just found out today so I don’t know. Actually we found out because Kon heard a heartbeat,” you said.

“Okay. You really got her pregnant?” He asked again.

“Uh, yeah?” Kon said waiting for Tim to do something. Tim laughed. Loudly. Kon was even more scared.

“Oh god, when Bruce finds out you’re gonna end up strung up with Kryptonite so bad that not even Supes can save you,” he said before laughing again. “And that’s if Dick or Jason or Damian doesn’t get to you first. You got Batman’s daughter pregnant.”

“Ah man. I didn’t even think of that,” Kon groaned.

“It’s okay, the body cast will be off by the time the baby is born,” Tim teased while placing a hand on Kon’s shoulder a little too tightly. “Ass,” he added while manhandling Kon.

A few hours later

“Steph, I need your help. My sister is pregnant,” Tim said over the phone on the balcony.

“Cass??”

“No! She’s dating you. My other sister,” he said with an eye roll.

“That makes more sense. Go on, bird boy,” she said.

“I need advice and help-“

“Say no more. Bring your credit card and we’ll buy everything she needs,” Steph said.

“Thank you so much.”

———————————

Ghost Maker x bat aunt!reader (idk what I think of that description but I guess it works??)

“You’re pregnant?”

“Yeah, K, I am,” you said. He tapped his fingers on the table in the massive penthouse apartment he rented.

“Well, then you will need proper nutrition and the best medical care and-“

“Woah woah. That’s it?” You asked shocked.

“Yes. It’s important for developing fetus-“

“I am aware K. But I thought you’d be… I don’t know…”

“Emotional? I don’t have much of that,” he said with a smile. “I’m practical. I see a problem and i fix it. You can either have the best medical care money can buy, an abortion, or adoption. I will pay for anything you want of course. It is your body.”

“Sometimes I forget you are a psychopath,” you admitted with a dry smile. “Repressed emotions run in the family so your actions seem practically normal. But moments like this are… tough.”

“I apologize,” he said. “I would not make a good father in a traditional sense but I would provide any worldly needs you or the child would need. You don’t have to decide today. This situation is unfortunate luck as we were using protection but I have never abandoned responsibilities.”

“Yeah,” you said grimly looking out at the Gotham skyline. “I have to tell Bruce soon. I’m supposed to help him with his work and I can’t do that now.”

Ghost Maker watched you carefully. He imagined that regular emotions would make this situation easier for you.

“We can meet him if you would like. He will probably fight me,” he commented.

“Yeah… but you both do that anyways,” you answered.

4 hours later you sat in a booth on the other side of town overlooking the bay. Bruce was sitting across from you talking about some business or another that you frankly weren’t listening a word to. You were too busy tearing your napkin apart.

“What is wrong with you?” Bruce said suddenly. You looked up at him startled. “You’re anxious.”

“I’m not,” you retorted.

“You’re nervously wringing at your napkin, your breathing is shallow, skin moist, pupils slightly dilated, and you are refusing wine with dinner. And the way you look to the door tells me you are expecting someone at the restaurant you had me rent out.”

“I hate that you do that,” you muttered. “Fine. I am expecting someone. I want you to promise civility first.”

“Interesting. You can bring them out. I have a feeling I know what you’re going to say and you needn’t worry about what I’ll think,” Bruce said. You blinked.

“You do? And you aren’t mad,” you asked. Most big brothers weren’t exactly fond of these situations.

“Of course not. I support my sister’s choices in life. And that includes anyone you bring in your life,” he said with a little smile.

“Oh,” you said leaning back in relief. Foot steps announced an arrival and you looked to see K with his mask on and a nice, of course white, suit.

Bruce had his wine glass pressed to his lips but didn’t take a drink. He lowered it and looked between you both. “What is this?”

“We have been seeing it other-“

“He is incapable of feeling love,” Bruce said with a glare at K.

“It wasn’t that kind of thing,” K answered before sitting beside you.

“I don’t need to know the men my sister takes to bed but I must say that I’m shocked,” Bruce said looking at you. “I admittedly thought you were lesbian.”

“That’s what you thought I was announcing?” You smiled and shook your head. “Bi. But there is something I need to tell you,” you said and were you sweating? “Uhh, well… I’m- I’m pregnant.”

Before you could say or do anything else, Bruce had sprung across the table and grabbed K by the collar and slammed him to the floor. It didn’t take much before they were exchanging blows in a fury that most people couldn’t hardly see.

“Stop,” you said angrily. “You’re both acting like children!”

Silverware was thrown at each other and tables flipped. You sighed heavily and grabbed a piece of bread and started tearing and eating it. A huge mirror was broken.

“Bruce, you are paying for any damages,” you said almost conversationally.

Finally they both stopped after thoroughly ruining the room. Both men stood panting. Shirts and jackets were ripped and K had a busted lip. The waiters hadn’t returned to the room probably out of self preservation.

“Look, I am going to decide what I want but I can’t do that if you two are fighting like idiots,” you said angrily and Bruce had the decency to look ashamed. “I’m leaving and neither of you are coming with me until you grow up and clean your mess.”

———————————

I didn’t write Jon kent x reader with Damian finding out because I can’t imagine it. I can only see him dating Damian so I couldn’t imagine him getting with any woman but especially Damian’s sister! But for any situation, Damian would have broken a sword on Jon even tho it didn’t hurt but just because it made Damian feel better.

[albertasunrise]

Mistakes - Chapter 1

Summary: You’d known it was a bad idea to get involved with Javier Peña. You were just another notch on his bedpost but you were a notch he kept revisiting. You know you should have stopped it, declined his offers to rock your world but you couldn’t and now you had to deal with the consequences. Consequences that you knew he would refuse to accept.

Warnings: Angst, References to sex, Unplanned Pregnancy, Mentions of Abortion

Pairings: Javier Peña x Reader

§

As you stared at those two lines you felt your stomach twist. How was this happening? You’d been careful, always using protection so how was it that you were now looking at a positive pregnancy test. You’d known it was a bad idea to get involved with Javier Peña. You were just another notch on his bedpost but you were a notch he kept revisiting. You know you should have stopped it, declined his offers to rock your world but you couldn’t and now you had to deal with the consequences. Consequences that you knew he would refuse to accept.

‘Fuck.’ You sobbed as you placed the test down and picked up the other, it too telling you the same thing ‘Shit… What am I going to do?’

Were you ready to be a mum?

Should you get rid of it?

No, you’d never be able to do that.

You knew you had to tell him but how? How were you supposed to tell the most desired man at the embassy that your casual relations with him had led to this? A baby

You walked from the bathroom and sank onto the couch, placing the tests on the coffee table as you let your tears flow freely now. You were pulled from your cries by a knock at the door and after wiping your tears and letting out a few shaky breaths you answered, not getting a chance to see who it was but the familiar lips on yours told you. He kissed you with fervour but you can’t return it, you don’t want to and he senses that quickly.

‘What's the matter Cariño? He asked as he kissed down your neck ‘I haven’t been able to stop thinking about you all day.’

‘Don’t Javi.’ You said as you pushed him off of you, avoiding his gaze as you made your way back to the couch.

‘What the hell is up with you?’ He growled, angered by your rejection of his advances.

‘Javier please.’ You sobbed then, throwing your face into your hands.

Javier’s stomach sank, his anger replaced with worry as he sprinted to your side and dropped to his knees in front of you, missing the two sticks of plastic on your coffee table. He grabbed your hands and pulled them from your face, cupping it in his hands as he lifted it so your eyes were level with his.

‘What's going on?’ He asked, brow furrowed in concern ‘Has something happened?’

You could only nod, eyes settling on the tests that sat just behind him. His gaze followed yours and stopped on the offending items, eyes growing wide as he saw what they said and his head quickly whipped back to face you.

‘You’re?’

You nodded, letting out another sob as your hand unconsciously came to rest on your belly.

‘Who’s is it?’ He asked and this made you look up at him in disbelief.

‘Who’s do you think?’

‘Well, I don’t know who else you've been sleeping with.’ He grumbled and you gave him a chilling look before shifting out of his grasp.

‘Fuck you, Javier.’ You spat, shoulders shaking as you walked to your kitchen.

‘What?’

‘I haven’t slept with anyone else Javi.’ You announced, the cogs in his mind whirring ‘I haven’t been with anyone but you. Men don't exactly throw themselves at me.’

‘But we-.’ He paused as he took in the information ‘No this isn’t possible. How?’

‘I don’t fucking know Javi.’ You snapped ‘Condoms aren’t a hundred per cent effective, everyone knows that. I guess one failed.’

‘I…Uh.’ He stuttered, unsure of what to say ‘I’ll speak to Connie.’ He said finally ‘See if we can get you booked in for a termination.’

‘A termination?’

‘Well you’re not seriously considering keeping it are you?’ He inquired, his tone exasperated ‘I mean you’re in no position to raise a kid. We should get rid of it.’

‘Get the fuck out.’

‘Cariño.’

‘OUT!.’

‘Please just think about this. We can’t have a baby together. We fuck casually, I don’t want a relationship and I certainly don’t want a kid. I can’t give you what you want. You’ll be alone in this.’

‘That's fine Javi. I guessed I would be.’ You growled ‘You have no right however to tell me to get rid of it. I’m going to have this baby with or without you. Just know that they’ll never know you. I refuse to let them know a father that told me to get rid of them… Now get the fuck out of my house.’

‘Cariño.’

‘GO!.’

He left and you stood there, seething on the spot. You knew he wasn’t going to react well but you'd never expected him to suggest you terminate it. That had never been an option for you. You sobbed a little at the knowledge you’d be doing this alone, suddenly very aware of how alone you really were and after glancing at the clock and seeing was barely seven you decided to pay Connie a visit.

…

‘You’re what?’ She exclaimed, a little shocked by the news you'd just told her.

‘I was surprised too.’

‘Who’s is it?’

‘Connie…’

‘It’s Javi’s isn't it?’

‘Well, I haven’t been with anyone else since I arrived here a year ago.’ You confirmed and she gasped.

‘You told him?’ She asked

You nodded.

‘How did he take it?’

‘Told me to get rid of it.’

‘He what?’ She yelled and you flinched a little ‘Sorry.’ She apologised.

‘He said he doesn’t want a relationship, which I already knew, and that he doesn’t want kids. Told me it was for the best but it was never an option for me Con. I figured I’d be raising this baby alone. Just never thought he'd tell me to terminate it.’

‘He’s a fucking idiot.’ Piped up Steve, sipping from his beer ‘I can kick the shit out of him if you like.’

‘And what will that achieve?’ You chuckled ‘No, it's fine. This baby will never know him.’ You declared ‘I’ll make sure of it. It’ll never feel unwanted.’

~

Connie managed to get an appointment in the clinic for you to get your first scan and even attended it with you. As you lay were, shivering from the jelly that the doctor had squirted on your stomach it all became very real to you. Placing the prob on your skin, she started to move it around and you fixed your eyes on Connie, nerves starting to get the better of you.

Then you heard it.

‘There we are.’ Said the doctor as she turned the screen ‘See that little shape there?’ You nodded ‘That’s your baby.’ She stated ‘Judging from this I'd say you’re around 9 weeks along. Strong heartbeat. Everything looks good.’

‘Wow.’ Said Connie, her eyes glued to the screen ‘That’s the most wonderful thing I think I’ve ever seen, don’t you think?’

‘Yeah.’ You replied, letting out a choked sob as you watched your baby on the screen.

‘I shall print some pictures for you.’ Said the doctor, smiling at you both ‘Would you like some too?’ She asked Connie and the woman nodded eagerly.

…

‘So that thing there that looks like a cashew… that’s the baby?’ Asks Steve, nose scrunched as he studied the pictures.

‘Yup.’ You replied, grinning at him ‘I’ve grown a cashew.’

Connie giggled at that, refreshing your lemonade as you glanced at the pictures yourself.

‘Still can’t believe that there’s a tiny being growing inside of me.’ You said, a few stray tears slipping down your cheeks ‘I love them so much already and I haven’t even met them properly yet.’

‘It’s going to be so loved.’ Said Connie ‘I’ve already bought a tone of wool to knit it some cute bits.’

‘I didn’t know you knit!’

‘Ahhhh.’ Said Steve, waving the picture at you ‘She’s a woman of mystery my wife!’

~

‘Gah!’ Squealed Connie as you walked out of the changing room ‘Look at that bump!’ She squealed with excitement ‘How have you been hiding that from us?’

Connie had dragged you out to find a dress for the office Christmas Party. You really didn’t want to go, you were four months pregnant and still suffering from sickness a little but Connie had begged you to come shopping with her and that’s when she’d found this dress for you. A pale mint green that suited your complexion perfectly.

‘Baggy t-shirts and loose blouses my friend.’ You replied with a wink ‘What do you think?’ You asked as you gave her a twirl, the sundress accentuating your growing belly ‘Doesn’t just make me look fat does it?’

‘NO!’ She practically screamed ‘You are glowing.’

‘Do we have to go to this party?’ You groaned ‘I can’t drink so it's going to be a bore for me.’

‘I’ll stay sober with you!’ announces Connie, determined to convince you to come.

‘Is Javi going?’

‘Doubt it.’ She replied ‘Not really his scene.’ She paused, pulling her best puppy eyes ‘Please.’

‘Fine.’ You groaned ‘But you have to stay sober.’

‘Promise.’

~

‘You said he wouldn’t be here.’ You snapped at Connie, seething at the sight of Javier drinking at the bar with Steve.

The hall was decorated with traditional Christmas decorations, a large tree at the centre of the far wall twinkled with fairy lights that gave an aura of magic to the room.

‘I said I doubted he’d come.’ She retorted, raising her hands in mock surrender.

‘I need to leave.’

‘No, you’re here now. Come on.’ She begs ‘You don’t have to speak to him.’

You’d managed to avoid him pretty well since announcing to him that you were having his baby and he’d avoided you too. Steve kept you up to date and you knew that he hadn’t asked about you or the baby and that had made it crystal clear for you. You really were in this alone. There had been a small part of you that hoped he'd change his mind, tell you he wanted this. Wanted you but you knew you were fooling yourself. Javier Peña doesn’t settle and he certainly wouldn’t settle for a girl like you.

‘Come on, let's get us a drink.’

‘No alcohol remember.’ You remind her, and she rolled her eyes.

‘Yes, I know.’ She groaned.

You noticed Javier looking at you from the corner of your eye when you approached the bar but you didn’t return his gaze, you kept your eyes fixed on Connie as you flagged down the barman with one hand and cradled your bump with the other. Thumb stroking the fabric that covered your swell.

…

Javier studied you as Steve talked to him about a game he’d caught on the weekend. You looked good. Simple makeup, hair up in a loose bun with few curls framing your face and the sundress you wore suited you perfectly. As his eyes trailed over your body before they settled on your hand, the way it sat on your stomach highlighting your growing bump.

‘She’s showing.’ He said suddenly as his eyes growing wide, stopping Steve dead.

‘What?’ He asked, a little confused at the change of subject.

‘She’s showing.’ He said again and Steve followed his gaze to you, also noting your swollen stomach.

‘Shit yeah, she is.’ He replied, smiling to himself ‘You’ve been a fucking ass to her.’

“What?’ Javier snapped.

‘She’s four months pregnant with your baby and not once have you asked how she is. How the pregnancy’s going. Nothing.’

‘I don’t want it.’

‘Doesn’t fucking matter Javi.’ Steve scolded ‘You are that babies father and you’re doing fuck all to help her. What would your dad think if he knew?’

‘Steve-.’

‘She’s fine by the way. In case you do give a shit.’ He interrupted ‘Con’s been taking really good care of her. Went to her first scan, got her a bunch of books. Been arranging all her appointments for her.’ He took a swig of his whiskey ‘Baby’s doing well too. Cooking nicely.’

‘That’s great’ Javier growled, downing the last of his drink and storming out.

…

You noticed him leave but you didn't care. If anything, you were relieved. The rest of the evening went fairly well after that. He did come back but he avoided you and you did the same. You danced, you laughed and you enjoyed yourself for the first time in that felt like years, your worries melting away. For a night you didn't worry about the future. The fact that you had no family to help you raise the baby or that its father didn't want it. You just focused on your friends, the music and yourself.

~

‘Thank you for arranging this Con.’ You said as you took her hand ‘You’ve been so amazing.’

It had been a month since the Christmas party and you’d not seen Javier since. You were a little surprised that you hadn’t run into him in the hall since your apartments were across from each other but you suspected that wasn't an accident but it didn't bother you. He was going you the space you’d demanded.

‘What are best friends for?’ She replied, smiling at you sweetly.

‘Well, they don’t normally arrange all your antenatal appointments for you.’

‘I work at the clinic.’ She chuckled ‘Easy for me to sort it for you.’ She gave your hand a squeeze ‘You nervous?’

‘A little.’ You confessed ‘Last time I was here they were teeny.’ You continued ‘Now look at me.’ You finished as you motioned to your very visible bump.

‘You’ll be able to learn the sex.’ Connie stated and you looked at her with comically wide eyes ‘You want to know?’

‘More than anything.’ You admitted ‘Been killing me not knowing. Makes getting for it things hard.’ You giggled.

Your name was called and you were led into a familiar room where you laid on the bed and lifted your shirt like before, hissing at the cold of the jelly again. She places the probe on your belly and moved it around, finding the baby quickly this time. You swooned at the sound of their heartbeat, the consistent thump making your own race.

‘Oh my.’ Squealed Connie ‘Look at it.’ She lamented, tears trickling down her cheeks ‘Hi.’ She giggled when its hand came into view.

‘Would you like to know the sex?’ The doctor asked and you nodded, trapping your bottom lip between your teeth as they focused on the screen again ‘Well it looks to me like you’re having a baby girl.’ She said after a few moments, turning the screen so you could see better ‘Congratulations.’

‘A girl?’ You asked, eyes widening and the doctor nodded.

‘Mhmm.’

‘You’re having a girl.’ Connie squealed and you look up at her with tear-filled eyes.

‘I’m having a girl.’ You grinned, laughing as you sobbed with joy.

‘I’ll print lots of pictures again.’ The doctor said, grinning at your reaction.

You practically skipped out of the clinic pictures in hand and Steve waved at you as you clambered into his truck, giggling as Connie shoved the pictures into his hand.

‘Well, now I can tell it’s a baby.’ He said and you rolled your eyes.

‘That's my daughter you’re talking about.’ You declared and he turned to face you and beamed.

~

‘You boys done?’ Asked Connie as she stopped beside the table, noting that Steve had eaten all his food but Javier had barely touched his.

They’d been pouring over paperwork and pictures for hours and coming up empty-handed. Running a hand through his hair, he looked up at his partner’s wife and gave her a weak smile.

‘Um yeah… Thanks, Con.’

‘Nah come on, finish your food.’ Grumbled Steve ‘You’ve not eaten all day.’

‘I guess I just don’t have much of an appetite.’ Stated Javier as he pushed his plate away.

He hadn’t had one since he’d seen you at that Christmas party. Seeing you there glowing, round with his child, had brought out all these feelings in him that he was struggling with. He wasn’t sure what it was he was feeling but he knew that he missed you. Pined for you. That was painfully clear to him.

‘You never do.’ Steve retorted, pulling him from his thoughts ‘You live off of ex and Whiskey. Amazed you’re not thinner.’

‘Fuck off Murphy.’ He growled, grabbing his beer and drinking the last of it before placing it down on the counter in the kitchen ‘Thanks for Din…’ He trailed off as his eyes caught sight of your sonogram pictures, your name and the date above the very clear image of a baby ‘Is this?...’

‘Your baby?’ Snapped Steve and Javier flinched at his change in tone ‘Yup.’

‘She had her 20-week scan yesterday.’ Said Connie softly, watching the way Javier’s eyes softened as he studied the image ‘Here.’ She handed him some more pictures and there was one that caught his attention in particular, a very visible hand above them giving the illusion that they were waving ‘She’s already waving and she’s not even been born yet.’ Connie chuckled as she grabbed his bottle and placed it in the glass bin.

‘She?’ He said suddenly, head whipping up to look at Connie with tears pooling in his eyes ‘It’s a girl?’

‘Yeah.’ She replied, grinning as she nodded excitedly ‘Got so many patterns to do and now I can buy some girly wool. Can’t believe there’s going to be a baby around here soon!’

His hand flew up to his mouth as he let out a sob, eyes returning to the picture that now shook in his grasp as tears splash on its shiny surface. This was a life he’d helped create and it was growing inside of you. He realised how stupid he’d been and he suddenly felt overwhelmed.

‘Hey.’ Said Connie softly as she pulled him into a hug and he sobbed against her shoulder, his body shaking as he cried.

‘I’m going to have a daughter.’ He sobbed ‘And she’ll never know who I am.’

‘You can change that Javier.’ Said Connie, pulling away to look him in the eye ‘You still have a chance to be part of this baby’s life but you need to do something about it.’

‘They’re better off without me.’

‘Seeing these pictures here, how do they make you feel?’ She questioned, glancing at Steve who is watching his partner carefully.

‘I don’t know.’ He answered honestly.

‘When you see her. The baby girl that you helped create. Do you want to know her?’ She asked, hand on his arm rubbing comforting circles.

‘Yes.’ He choked out, eyes drifting up to Connie.

‘Then there is your answer.’ She stated ‘You have a chance to be a part of your daughter’s life but only if you act.��

‘She said I’d never know them.’ He sobbed ‘She swore it.’

‘You had just told her to get an abortion.’ Piped up Steve and Connie threw him an angry look.

‘How about I speak to her. Arrange for the three of us to sit down and talk this all out.’ She suggested and Javier nodded weakly ‘Give me a few days.’

‘Okay.’

~

‘Absolutely not!’ You yelled, angry tears streaming down your cheeks ‘I don’t want to speak to him.’

‘But-.’

‘No buts Con.’ You snarled ‘He wants nothing to do with her and she’ll never know him.’

‘He saw your ultrasound pictures the other night.’ She stated and you looked at her with a confused expression, unsure of where this was going ‘He sobbed when he learned that you’re having a girl. I slipped up when he saw the waving picture. He cried his eyes out. He wants a chance to be a part of her life. You need to give him that chance hun.’ She pleaded ‘Just come round tonight. We’ll talk it out and see what happens.’

‘Why does he suddenly care?’

‘I think the ultrasound made it more real for him.’ She said, shrugging slightly ‘I think him seeing those pictures made him realise he wants this. He just hadn’t known before.’

‘Fine.’ You grumbled ‘But if he steps even a toe out of line, I will make sure he never meets her.’

‘Shit, okay…’ Connie breathed, a little taken aback by your statement ‘See you later.’

~

You sat nervously at Connie’s table, waiting for Javier to arrive. She’d decided that dinner was perhaps not the best way to talk things through, too many ways to get out of not saying anything at all. You rubbed your swollen belly, feeling your stomach twist in knots as you ran through the possible scenarios for how this would go. You weren’t expecting him to confess his love for you and the two of you skip away together, one big happy family. You weren’t sure what you were expecting.

‘That’s him.’ Said Connie as a knock sounded at the door and you felt your heart begin to race.

‘Just breath.’ You said to yourself, glancing up as Connie and Javier appeared through the doorway.

‘Hi.’ He said gingerly, rubbing the back of his neck as he oozed nervousness.

‘Hi.’ You replied, short and curt.

‘Javi why don’t you sit down.’ Said Connie as she pointed to the chair across from you ‘I’ll grab you a beer.’

‘Thanks.’ He replied, giving her a quick nod before taking a seat.

‘How are you?’ He asked in an attempt to break the silence and you rolled your eyes at him.

‘Really?’

‘What?’

'It’s been 5 months and now you want to do small talk?’

‘Carino I-.’

‘I’d appreciated it if you didn’t call me that.’ You growled ‘I’m not your sweetheart.’

‘Here.’ Said Connie as she placed the beer in front of him and he gave her a weak smile.

‘Thanks.’

You all sat there in awkward silence before Connie finally decided that enough was enough. She slammed the sonogram pictures on the table along with some shoes she’d clearly knitted herself. They were tiny and brought tears to your eyes as you studied them. A pale pink with white toes and a large brown wooden button fastened them shut.

‘We all know why we're here.’ She began, sitting back in her chair and crossing her arms ‘You are having a baby together. Javier, you have made some big mistakes in how you dealt with the news but I know that you want to make amends and you want a chance to be involved.’ She paused and he glanced up at her before looking at you with the saddest expression you’d ever seen ‘Hun I understand why you’re upset with him. When you first told me what he’d said I almost stormed down there to castrate him myself.’ That made Javier wince ‘But you need to do what’s best for her.’ She declared as she leaned forward and lifted one of the scans so you could see it more clearly ‘You’re going to be parents in less than four months. Don’t you want to give your baby the best possible start? With both her of parents in her life?’

‘Javi’s married to the job.’ You grumbled and he winced at the fact you were about him as if he wasn't there ‘I don’t want to do this alone. I am terrified, but I can’t be worrying about him letting me and the baby down.’

‘May I speak?’ He pipped up and both you and Connie looked at him, your expression expectant ‘I did fuck up. I freaked out. I came to Columbia to make a difference, I never expected to meet someone that I’d come to care for and I certainly never expected to end up having a baby with said person. I won’t lie. I was sure I didn’t want it. I genuinely thought it would be better off without me but when I saw you at the party, your small bump under that dress I realised how much I missed you and how much I was missing out on.’ He paused, scraping a hand over his tired face ‘When I saw these I felt something I’d never expected to feel. I felt a swell of happiness inside as I looked at my baby and when Connie told me it was a girl… Well.’ He paused again, looking down at the sonogram in his hand ‘I knew that I wanted to be a part of her life. I want it all.’

‘Javier-.’

‘I’m not expecting you to take me back.’ He interrupted and you sat there with your mouth hanging open ‘But I want to be there for you... For you both. If you’ll let me.’

‘I uh-.’ You sit there with a gobsmacked expression plastered over your face.

You’d not expected that.’

‘I want to be there when she comes, hold your hand as you push our baby girl into this world. I want to hold her when she cries, sing her to sleep, albeit badly, and I want to support you. Take some of the load. I didn’t realise how much I wanted this, wanted her until I was faced with the possibility of never being able to have it.’

You sit there in silence. Tears rolling down your cheeks as you and Javier gaze at each other, a small smile tugging at the corner of your mouth as he leant forward and took your hand.

‘I swear to you that she will be my number one priority.’ He stated ‘I will move heaven and Earth for her.’

‘Okay.’ You replied, nodding lightly ‘But I need to know that when it comes down to the wire. She’s the one you choose.’

‘I will.’ He replied, smiling sweetly at you.

The rest of the evening went smoothly after that. You discussed arrangements. Agreed that he could come to your final scan before the baby was born and discussed living together initially afterwards. You’d ended up deciding on his apartment as it had a spare room and was larger although agreed it was a good idea to keep yours in case the arrangement didn’t work. You both hugged Connie goodnight. Thanked her for helping the two of your settle your differences and made your way down to your respective apartments but there was no longer an awkward air hanging over you both. Just quiet acceptance.

‘Thank you for agreeing to talk to me.’ He said sweetly, giving your hand a friendly squeeze as you came to a stop outside your front door.

‘Connie was right.’ You started, squeezing his back ‘We need to do what’s best for her.’

Smiling, he gave you a nod and a peck on the cheek ‘Good night Carino.’ He said softly, his eyes sparkling.

‘Why don’t you come in.’ You said, giving him a small smile ‘It’s still early and it would be good to talk a little more.’

‘Sure.’ He replied, following you in as you opened your door.

‘I haven’t got any alcohol I’m afraid.’ You snickered ‘Made me sad having it and not being able to drink it.’

‘That’s fine.’ He replied, smirking at you.

‘I probably have some coffee in the cupboard or I can make you a herbal tea.’

‘I’m fine.’ He replied as he let out a giggle ‘Don’t fuss.’

‘Right.’ You replied, lowering yourself onto the couch with one hand cradling your bump. ‘I look forward to being able to sit down on the couch again gracefully.’ You grumbled ‘Why they gave me an apartment with such a low one I will never know. Perhaps they knew I was going to get pregnant!.’

‘Perhaps.’ He replied as he sat down across from you and you turned your head to look at him.

‘So.’ You breathed.

‘So.’ He returned.

‘I have been trying to think of names.’ You started, leaning forward to grab the list you’d made and handed it to him.

‘These are all Spanish names?’ He questioned, giving you a bemused look.

‘Well, she’d going to have a little Mexican in her.’ You chuckled ‘Just because I hated you, didn't mean I wanted to deny her heritage.’

‘I deserved that.’ He replied with a wince ‘Well I have an aunt called Regina.’ He started, looking down the list’ She smells like beats and repeats herself all the time.

‘Veto on Regina.’

‘I like Elena and Luna.’ He continued ‘Oh and Rosa.’

‘Spooky.’ You said, catching his attention.

‘What is?’

‘Those are all my favourites.’ You replied with a smile and he beamed back at you.

You sat for a few minutes in comfortable silence, the two of you gazing at each other as you rubbed circles on your belly.

‘Whoah!.’ You said suddenly as you sat upright, eyes widening and you looked down at your belly.

‘What is it?’ He asked, his tone a little panicked.

‘She’s moving.’ You replied, grinning at him ‘Come feel. Shit, that’s weird.’

‘You sure?’ He asked, a little surprised at how ready you were to allow him back in.

‘Yes! Come on before she stops!’

He scooted over towards you, smiling when you grabbed his hand and placed it over your bump. For a few moments there was nothing and then… kick.

‘Whoah!’

‘Freaky right?’ You giggled.

‘Very!’

‘Imagine what it’s like for me. She’s doing it from inside.’ You chuckled and he grinned at you ‘She’s gotta be dancing the tango in there. Jesus!’

‘Hey, little one.’ Said Javi as he lowered his face towards your swollen belly ‘Settle down now. Mummy’s very happy to feel you moving but no need to overdo it.’

You chucked as you watched him talk to her, feeling her settle down inside of you and you rolled your eyes as he looked up at you.

‘Of course, she listened to you.’ You grumbled and Javier just shrugged.

You gazed at each other again, feeling the air between you crackle as he shifted himself so that he was more upright but no further from you. You saw his eyes drop to your lips and your own followed suit, tongue darting out to wet it before letting out a shaky breath in anticipation. As he pressed his lips to yours it was unhurried like it had been in the past. It was soft yet passionate and you felt yourself melting into it but soon it became heated, hands groping and tugging as you both desperately tried to deepen it.

‘I missed you.’ He whispered against your lips before his own started planting kisses down your neck.

‘Fuck.’ You moaned, feeling his actions going straight to your core but then your brain kicked in ‘Javi, Javi… Stop.’

‘What’s wrong?’ He asked as he pulled away, brows furrowed in concern.

‘As much as I’d love to revisit that.’ You started as you placed your hand on his chest ‘We need to take this slow. I can’t just go jumping back into bed with you. I need time to trust you again but if you’re serious about this then I need some proof.’

‘I want this. I want us.’ He urged, kissing you again with fervour.

‘And that's wonderful.’ You replied, pecking his lips ‘But I need a little time to process. Is that okay?’

‘Of course.’ He replied, flashing you a warm smile ‘We’ll take this as slow as you like.’

‘Why don’t we start with you staying over. We can talk a bit more, get to know each other again and then you can make me breakfast in the morning.’ You suggested, with a wink.

‘I think that can be arranged.’ He replied, pressing a tender kiss on your lips.

~

Chapter 2

[ceoofuwu]

𝐔𝐍𝐁𝐈𝐃𝐃𝐄𝐍 𝐒𝐄𝐄𝐃𝐒 ;; 𝘮𝘪𝘺𝘢 𝘢𝘵𝘴𝘶𝘮𝘶 𝘹 𝘧.𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳

𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒: 𝟐.𝟏𝐤

𝐀/𝐍: so, this is the first Atsumu scenario! I'd literally give up my life for this man, I CAN'T HOLD BACK. Tho it turned out quite dark... I guess I made amends for it with the happy note in the end, then?

𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒: living with the Miya twins definitely means throwing party every once in a while and painting the town red... but what if, just once, things spiral out of control?

𝐓.𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒: 18+ content ahead; mentions of sexual intercourse, unwanted/non-planned pregnancy, cursing. Suggestive themes.

Another wave of nausea washed over your body, making your guts twist with the unpleasant feeling of food hastily gushing out of your body.

You arrested your head further buried in the toilet, hands clutched tightly around the sides, mind flooding with hazy memories of last night’s events, as a stamp of warmth came in contact with your back.

  Sloppy, heated kisses along the sensitive area of your neck were sending shivers through your entire body, which was being ravished by pleasure.

«Come on, baby…» he whispered against your ear, your lobe caught between his teeth, «I’ll be gentle».

  Atsumu rubbed soothing circles on the broad surface of your back, crouched beside your weakened figure, the warmness of his palm eager to drive your fatigue away.

You had been sharing a home with him and his brother for quite some time now, the latter merely staying to keep you company and lend a hand with the loan. Showered with independence as you were, throwing parties every now and then was only natural. However, it wasn’t always completely kept under control.

«Drank too much, didn’t you?» he asked softly, worryingly, while his hand came to gently wipe your mouth with a small-sized towel he had fetched.

«I doubt I drank as much as you did, Tsumu…» you sighed, «… but I still don’t think that’s the proble—« your statement was cut off by your body pushing up another round of fluids.

   Your back arched at the intolerable amount of rapture that was shaking your entire being, «M-more…! Atsumu…!»

«More?» he smirked, looking at you with devilish eyes then throwing your legs over his broad shoulders and thrusting even more forcefully this time, his bare cock hitting spots in depths it had never been before.

   He remained silent the whole time, standing by your side, lightly pulling your hair back and continuing to soothe you with his rubbing patterns, his heart aching at the sight of your body completely cleaning itself out, leaving you fully worn out in its wake.

You lifted yourself slowly, making sure there was no other round coming then snatched the towel out of Atsumu’s hands hastily and wiped the stains of puke clean.

«You were saying…?» he asked, his eyes carefully following your movements to the sink, where you rinsed your mouth out.

«I don’t think it’s only drinking that got me like this…»

«What do you mean?»

«You weren’t particularly cautious last night…»

   You were a complete and utter mess by now; body coated in sweat, quaking with overwhelming ecstasy, burning with the need for more friction, for the touch of your lover, who was mercilessly pounding in and out of you, gaining momentum with every push.

You could feel him twitching inside of you, meaning he was close to his peak, so you were already preparing for the pull out but, with a loud, lengthy groan against your clavicle, you only felt a new-found kind of warmth spreading inside of you instead.

«You feel so damn good baby…» he croaked, burying his face in the crook of your neck, his hot breaths tickling the sensitive area, while he was gradually climbing down from his high.

What with all those surges of bliss washing over you and the influence of alcohol you were under, you didn’t care as much as to realize the severity of what had just happened.

  «You don’t mean…» his voice trailed off, amber eyes widening with surprising realization.

The grave shadow cast upon his face was gone with a mere shrug of his shoulders.

«I do. There’s a high chance, Atsumu».

«I guess we’ll have a little brat crawling around the house in a few months then» he chuckled.

This was one of the few times in your life when you actually couldn’t believe in your ears. He couldn’t be talking seriously. He was deadpanning. Could he be that childish?

«Are you even in your right mind?! Do you happen to have even the slightest idea how serious this is?! What responsibilities it requires?!» you shouted, taking aggressive steps towards him, «How are we supposed to raise a child when you can barely fend for ourselves?» your index daringly poked his chest, look glowing with fury, «What makes you think I’d even want a child growing inside of me, huh?» you spurted out, words dripping with the bitter truth.

«We’re not even 100% sure you’re pregnant» he replied calmly, not allowing the burden of guilt weigh down on him.

«So you’re just going to hang onto a possibility? Is this your way of self-defense?» your tone stayed high on decibels, continuously shooting the blonde with arrows of qualm, but triggering his anger simultaneously.

His thick eyebrows came to a frown, a dark hue of irritation cloaking his face, blood boiling with rage. Deep down, he was well aware of the fact that he had been careless and therefore brought by this outcome, but at the same time he wanted to explode. All this unwavering accusation made him see red; and he didn’t particularly excel at his keeping his temper in check.

He didn’t care about neither your reaction nor the impact his words would have on your already heated argument because he honestly needed anything to fire back, when he spat out:

«It’s not my fault you can’t control what’s going in and out of your cunt».

SLAP!

Your palm clashed with the tender skin of his cheek, the sound of skin finding skin echoing in the empty room. At that point, you genuinely believed that there was no other way to back fire him; he had completely crushed your defenses with that mere line of his. Your heart was shattered to thousand pieces, like a fragile piece of glass thrown madly at the floor.

However, you still had some remaining strength for a finishing blow.

«I should have seen this coming. You always run away from your responsibilities, like the immature toddler you are. You don’t give a fuck about other people’s feelings, do you? All you care about is to feed and satisfy your own, insatiable ego!» you yelled, coming to realize that there are actual tears streaming down your face, but not minding at all the reason for their appearance, «…because that’s just what you are, Atsumu. An immature, egotistical pig».

His almond-shaped eyes widened in shock his body aching with the sensation of something having pierced through his chest. He wanted to yell, curse, break—no, destroy something. His madness was getting the better of him but even so, he somehow stopped dead on his tracks upon hearing that cruel utterance. His stare travelled on your form, inspecting your exhausted state, pity feeling him to the brim. Was this really what you thought of him? Was he truly the one that had you messed up like this?

His thoughts were interrupted by the sudden opening of the bathroom’s door. His twin brother walked in, wearing an expression of confusion and worry as his grey orbs fell on you.

«I can hear you screaming from the living room… is everything… o… kay? Why are you—« his gaze immediately pinned his brother, «--why is she crying?» he demanded.

Atsumu lowered his head in shame, glancing down at his feet, desperately struggling to avoid his brother’s uncomfortably scrutinizing look. One the one hand he had no clue how he was supposed to explain the situation, but on the other, he couldn’t exactly step back from it.

«Ιt’s… none of your business…» he murmured.

«I don’t think he heard you, Atsumu.           Speak up a little. Tell him how your stupid, little ass fucked everything up again».

«What is she talking about, Tsumu?» Osamu’s facial expression was died in puzzlement, «Talk!»

«…you might become an uncle» he muttered reluctantly between gritted teeth.

«What?!» his look hopped between the two of you impatiently, not landing on anyone in particular.

Of course he was taken aback. How could he not be? Atsumu can be reckless from time to time yet, that seemed too surrealistic even for a person that knew him so well.

You were quite lost in your own concerns, which prevented you from noticing that Osamu had hastily and offensively grabbed him by the collar of his shirt, shaking him furiously.

«I always knew you were a stupid and annoying brother but I was hoping you’d be at least tolerable as a boyfriend!» he shouted in the other twin’s face, knuckles whitening at the tightness of his grip.

You’d usually laugh your heart out whenever the twins were fighting but this time the ambiance was too intense to allow even the slightest curl in your lips.

«We don’t even know if she’s accurately pregnant, you asshole! She hasn’t had a fucking test yet!» Atsumu roared back in exasperation.

Osamu’s features were completely painted with a mixture of bewilderment and realization, «She hasn’t?» his peek drifted to you and you shook your head in the negative.

«Well then…» he let go of his brother with a push, «…I’ll be back» he spoke, turning to leave the room.

«Where the hell are you going?»

«Where you should have gone from the beginning».

Thanks to Osamu, a light smile made its way to your lips. However, it was swiftly taken away by Atsumu’s murderous, disgusted glare. You answered to it with an identical one, not wanting to show him how much your heart was practically broken by that moment.

When he finally walked out of the bathroom, you made sure to lock the door he had harshly slammed behind him, before your body automatically slid against it, eventually collapsing on the floor

«Ugh, why does it take so freaking long?» you whined silently above the pregnancy test.

Before you knew it, your already pallid face was stained with tears once more, your hands rushing to cover your mouth and muffle your perpetual sobs as you succumbed entirely to the pain that was nested in your chest, waves of dejection, wrath and numbness hitting you relentlessly and unstoppably, letting you solely rot into the melancholy of anticipation….

Thankfully, Osamu had came back mere minutes ago with five tests in his hands, all of them produced by the same company. You explained that there was no need for so many, but seemed like Samu had quite freaked out so he couldn’t help himself. You had hastily snatched the tests and run off to the bathroom again, not paying to attention to what Atsumu was doing.

You would deal with him later, either way.

«Don’t be positive, don’t be positive…»

For about ten minutes straight, you were running conspiracies in your mind, attempting to calculate every possible outcome. If Atsumu was indeed the father of your child, then that… made also Osamu a dad? They’re literally the split image of each other so be it biological or adoptive father would practically make no difference. Which meant that if Osamu had kids—

«Are you… alright in here?» the door opened ajar and a familiar head slightly, almost timidly, protruded.

«Oh, now big, scary Atsumu isn’t mad?» you jibed.

Atsumu slid in, gently closing the door behind him and heading towards you.

«Look, I…» his eyes moved to the floor, afraid to encounter yours, «…I didn’t mean what I said… really, I uh…» you failed to suppress a light giggle at his miserable attempt to swallow his pride, «…I’m sorry, okay? Stop mocking me! And I’ll take care of our child…! If we have one, I mean…» you glanced at the test one more time to see if anything had changed and your eyes widened in surprise.

«Atsumu».

«…and I’ll do anything, I’ll cook even without setting the kitchen on fire I—«

«Atsumu!»

“Just don’t be mad at me okay? I’ll even change the baby—«

«ATSUMU!» you yelled, also making awkward hand signals that made no sense to earn his attention.

«What?»

«You won’t have to change any baby! Nor take care of it!»

He lifted his eyebrow in confusion, «We are getting a babysitter?»

«There’s no baby you idiot! I’m not pregnant! I’m not---« a silent sob cut off your sentence.

«Hey, wait, why are you crying?» Atsumu’s hand rested on your flushed cheek, his thumb swiping away a tear that came unbidden on your beautiful face.

«I don’t… know…» you spoke weakly and then immediately dived in his arms, clutching him to the point of asphyxia and probably clawing his back, while burying your wet face on his chest, where you were bawling your eyes out.

«It’s over now baby…» he whispered, planting a soft kiss on the crown of your head and rubbing soothing patterns on your back, «…take it all out».

Deep down, there was still a lingering ray of hope praying that you had actually that unbidden seed inside of you… it wouldn’t be catastrophic…

Hope you enjoyed! Leave a heart, comment, reblog! 💕

[xxisxxisxxis]

AU: Gateway Drug | "Forty-Something" [PT. 1]

[Pt. 2 HERE]

**This was not my idea, the credit goes fully to an anon that suggested it!!

Tag List: @unknownoblivion  @edwardtriggerhandzz  @haileynicoleseavey17  @cierrasixx19  @oskea93  @mgkobsessed  @sharon6713  @itsametaphorbriansblog  @miriampraez  @allie-mcginn @xpoisonousrosesx  @rebeccaphillips14  @nicholeh7 @lilmou5ie  @tamedhearts  @divaanya  @6ixx6ixx  @ratedrkohardychick91  @floregrohlssard  @oldschoolimagineblog  @thanks2pete  @abaldboi  @liith-ium  @jd-johndeacon-or-jackdaniels  @ytwahsog  @scarecrowmax  @random-internet-user-4471  @solohqrry  @sparxx27  @kaitieskidmore1  @cruecifymesixx    @meetthesixxter   @sublimeprincesswasteland  @arianareirg  @girlnight-terror

@fancywasmyname1  @teller258316  @ggorehorror  @blowinmeupwithherlove  @xrosegoldwolfx  @mylifeisjustafeverdream  @redlipscrystalskies14 @str4nge-haze @reigns420 @sixxseconds2love @leatherandheels @dogmom2014 @allyouneedislove-mp3 @n0-self-c0ntro1 @viinceneil

1988

"Shh!" I try not to laugh at Izzy as he nearly trips coming around the corner, bracing himself against the wall as I'm tucked under his arm to help him keep his balance. 

"When the hell did this get here?" He asks in reference to the wall, fumbling for his key when we get to his room. 

"You gotta slow down some, Izzy." I tell him softly as he struggles to get the door open but he eventually does. 

"I know, I know, I hear Axl bitch at me about it constantly, trust me I know." He rolls his eyes, careful not to drop his cigarette as he reaches for a lighter. 

He can't steady his thumb enough to light it, though, and I sigh and snatch the lighter from him, lighting the cigarette before he can complain. 

"Thanks." He falls back on the bed, chuckling a little as I stand at the foot of the bed, my arms crossed. "Don't take this the wrong way but you look hot even when you're knocked up." 

"And you're high." I roll my eyes. "And drunk." I add. "And I'm leaving you to it because I'm tired." 

I go to leave but he sits up. 

"You can crash here." He offers and I raise my brows. 

"Izzy, if this is a part of some grand scheme to be the next in line to have sex with me--"

"--You're pregnant. I don't fuck pregnant chicks." He wrinkles his nose, laying back down. 

"Gee, thanks." I mumble, crawling onto the bed and laying on my back beside him. 

In a moment of quiet I glance over at him smiling smugly. 

"What?" He questions, taking notice. 

"You love me so much you don't even know how to handle it." I tell him. 

"Like hell I do." He denies it in a sharp scoff. 

"You don't want me to leave you."

"That doesn't mean anything." 

"We're friends." I say next. 

"No, we're not." 

"You love me." 

"Whatever helps you sleep at night." 

I keep my smile for a few more moments, before I close my eyes. 

I feel him scoot the tiniest bit closer to me before settling down, too.

"Psst," he says in a few minutes and I open an eye and look at him. 

"What is it?" 

"You wanna get married?" 

I furrow my brows and turn to face him fully. 

"How the hell do you go from denying we're even friends to wanting to marry me?" 

"I'm high and drunk, like you said." He admits and I sigh, shaking my head a little as he clears his throat. "You and Nikki are getting divorced, you and Duff aren't together, either...everybody I know is getting hitched. I'm left out." He shrugs. 

"Be thanking God." I tell him and he chuckles. 

"Oh, c'mon. It wouldn't be that bad." He argues. "It would work out because Duff's in the band so he'd get to see the baby all the time so you wouldn't have to worry much with working in visiting and stuff. My mom would fucking love you, your dad already likes me...we've already seen each other naked so we know what to expect." He adds.

I hit his arm and glare at him. 

"Well, we're together a lot so we know each other's habits and stuff...I think it could work." 

"You're high. And drunk." I reiterate, getting back on my back. "And full of shit." 

"Okay, what about that old pact that desperate lonely people make? Like, 'if we're forty something and neither of us are married, we'll get married to each other'?" 

Knowing that by the time we're in our forties we most definitely won't be single, I humor him. 

"Izzy, if we even make it to forty-something, and you're sober and have your shit together, I'll marry you." I agree. 

"Deal," he holds his hand out for me to shake, and I do.

"Now go to sleep." I urge, turning over to face away from him. 

"The cold sex shoulder is already starting to settle in and we aren't even together yet." He aggravates and I reach my hand back and swat at him, making him laugh. 

1989

"Izzy, stop touching it!" I bark, hitting at his hand.

"Viv, I'm good, that fucking pixie stick didn't do shit." He bites back, his fingers on his nose as I'm holding ice to it. 

"Jeffrey Dean Isbell." I snap. 

"Vivian Estine Kinston." He says right back. 

"Fine!" I shove at his nose and he winces. 

"Jesus fuck, Vivian, I said it doesnt hurt to touch it, not fucking reset the bone, damnit!" He gripes in pain. 

"Oh, no, that fucking pixie stick didn't do shit." I remind him. "And you deserved it, by the way." 

"Here we go," he grumbles, leaning his head back in the car. 

"No, I mean seriously, Izzy. Drunk or not you can't go one night without being a complete asshole to a woman? Especially if they're your friends' wife, you're supposed to have extra respect for them, jesus." 

"I'm not friends with that little squealy bitch." He declares. 

"You still respect his wife. You don't pull her dress up and then hit her when she raises hell at you for doing it." 

"I didn't hit her, I karate chopped her. There's a fucking difference." He informs. 

"Either way, you're a moron." 

"And you're a bitch." 

"I don't take anything seriously from someone who snorts so much coke he only has one nostril because the size of the hole burnt into his septum." I hiss. 

"That's perfectly fine because I never took anything you've said seriously just because." He doesn't miss a beat before he drops the ice for a moment to light a cigarette.

"You're such a jackass."

"Are we saying vows right now?" He asks in reference to our insults. 

"I said when you're sober and forty-something, although right now I don't see you making it to forty-something."

"We should probably go ahead and consummate it, then." 

"Oh, gee, how tempting, I don't know how I'd possibly ever resist such an idea." I sarcastically let out and roll my eyes. 

"Vegas is only a few hours away," he points out. 

"The loss of blood from your nasal cavity is definitely getting to you." I scoff. 

"Viv, what could possibly be so bad about marrying me?" He blows smoke put of his mouth. 

"Well, for one, when you want a girl to marry you, you don't ask her while you're strung out or on a coke binge or drunk. You don't ask her while blowing cigarette smoke in her face, and you certainly don't ask her after getting your face beat in for sexually harassing and physically assaulting your acquaintance's wife." 

"I was fucked up, and that doesn't make it alright or whatever but I really do feel like shit about it, you know."

"Then you need to call Vince as soon as you can and explain that to him and apologize to him and Sharise. Because it really embarrassed her and hurt her feelings." I tell him. 

"Then will you marry me?" 

"I'm not talking about this anymore, Izzy, drop it." 

"Fine." He doesn't argue...but I do see him glance at me from the corner of my eye, a smirk on his lips. 

1990

"Tommy, I can't just up and fly out to Toronto tomorrow because me and Duff are going up to visit his family for a few days with Monroe." I explain, putting mascara on. 

"Well, think about it alright?" 

"Tommy, I'm not thinking about it, there's no way for me to go to Seattle and Toronto at the same time." 

"Well--"

"--I'll see you guys in a couple weeks, anyway, so what's the deal?" 

"The 'deal' is that you act like you don't want anything to do with us now that you and Nikki aren't togther anymore." He accuses. 

"That's not true." 

"Anytime you come out to a show is if Sharise or Heather are out on the road, too, and you just hangout with them the whole time and avoid us." 

"Gee, Tommy, could that possibly be because you idiots wore me down so much over the course of six years that I just don't have the energy to even be around you too much even when you're sober?" 

There's silence on the other line. 

"Not trying to be an ass, Tommy, but it's the truth. I love you, but I can't make it to Toronto. I'm sorry." 

More silence. 

I just sigh and hang up, finishing my makeup before I hear a horn honking out front.

"Monroe," I peek my head into his nursery, seeing his butt up in the air, thumb in mouth, tiny snores coming from him. 

I gently shake him awake, picking him up when all else fails, heading to the car. 

As soon as I get out there, I hand Monroe to Izzy, who's behind the wheel, as I get Monroe's carseat in his car. 

Once the toddler is locked in, I get in the passenger side and let out a breath. 

"You alright?" He asks me. 

"Yeah, just...a lot...I told Tommy I didn't want to go see them because I don't have the energy to be around them now that they're sober due to how they acted for so long when Nikki and I were together." 

"So...you don't want to be around them, but you'll come be around all of us." He points out. 

"I'd rather be in a room full of messed up Guns N' Roses than sober Mötley Crüe." 

"Ouch." He mumbles. 

"So, where we going?" I ask him. 

"The courthouse." He explains. 

"For what?" 

"To get married." He answers casually. 

"Ha, ha, funny...seriously where are we going?" 

"To the courthouse to get married." He says, again. 

"Izzy. That's not funny." I state. 

"I'm glad it isn't because I'm being serious, Viv." 

"Izzy, no you're not." 

"Yeah, I am."

"Stop the car." I order and he sighs, slowing down. 

"Damnit, Viv." He says as I open the door and get out, feeling too trapped in the car. "Now, you know I've been asking you for the past two years, Viv, I'm tired of hearing, 'no'. You think I'm kidding when I ask you but I'm being serious." 

"You can't be serious, Izzy, because it literally came out of nowhere the first time you even suggested it! 'Everybody else is doing it and I'm left out' is a shitty reason to want to marry someone--and you're not even four months sober! The last time a high idiot told me he wanted to marry me, I said, 'yes,' and I was in hell for it for years! So, yes, Izzy, I apologize if I wasn't taking you seriously all the times you've asked me about it because the idea in itself is just so freaking ridiculously stupid, I thought surely you'd have more sense than to think we could!" 

"Fine!"

"Fine!"

"Good!"

"Good! We aren't even friends anyway so screw you!" He throws at me. 

"wE aReN't EvEn FrIeNdS aNyWaY sO sCrEw YoU." I mimic his voice, walking around to get Monroe, who's still sleeping, out of the back. 

"Viv, get back in the car." 

"No."

"Vivian, get back in the damn car." 

"No!" 

"Why do you have to be so fucking stubborn?!" 

"The same reason you have to be so full of shit!" 

1991

"Monroe don't run!" I chase after the three year old backstage, grabbing his sides before he can get away from me. 

"Where's daddy?" He asks me with a chuckle, fingers in his mouth, his eyes switching over people passing by. 

"I don't know, baby, but we can go find him." I suggest. 

"Yeah!" He excitedly exclaims. 

"Yeah!" I reply, laughing…

"I said 'this' much cranberry and 'this' much Vodka, man!" I hear Duff complain, followed by the splattering of liquid hitting the floor. 

I turn the corner to see Duff face to face with their manager.

"Daddy, daddy, daddy!" Monroe kicks his legs, wrestling to get down. 

"Monroe—"

Duff looks at us, this look coming to his face. 

"H-Hey, man." He walks over to us, smiling at me. "When'd you get here?" He asks me, going to kiss my check but I lean back, wincing. 

"You smell like b-o-o-z-e, Duff." I scold him as he takes our son from me. 

"Yeah, don't worry about it." He assures me easy-goingly as Monroe hugs him tightly, grinning and laughing. 

His girlfriend...more so drug buddy, Linda, walks by and he glances at her. 

"Babe, you coming?" She asks him, raising her brows. 

He looks at Monroe, then me, then her again, before frowning slightly. 

"Go, we'll be okay for a few minutes." I insist. 

"Are you sure?" He questions.

"Duff, we just got here. You don't have to spend every second with us right away. You've got stuff to do." 

He sighs, looking at me, then Monroe again. 

"C'mon, baby, daddy's gotta get back to work." I tell Monroe and he reaches for me again. 

I take him and Duff kisses his head, and mine. 

"See ya before the show." He tells us, waving bye to Monroe. "See ya in just a few minutes, Roe." He assures him as Monroe waves back. 

I sigh, Monroe looking around again. 

"When's daddy coming back?" He asks me. 

"In just a few minutes." I assure him.

He's soon looking over my shoulder, his eyes wide and bright, a wide smile on his face as he brings his finger to his lips and goes "shh." 

Before I can turn to see who he's looking at, a sharp pinch on my ass has me snapping around, ready to throw a punch, only to be met with Izzy. 

He and Monroe laugh together at my expense and I hit Izzy in the arm. 

"Tailhole." I hiss out, watching my language and he chuckles some more. 

He looks so much healthier than he used to. 

He used to be scraggly and high looking all the time...now he's filled out a little more and his skins glowing. 

Of course that also probably has to do with him finding a girl he's full blown in love with.

"Duff leave you out here?" He asks and I shrug. 

"We just got here, he's with Linda." 

Izzy wrinkles his nose the slightest. 

"Duff's to Linda like Nikki was to Vanity." He mumbles. 

"Don't I know it." I state, knowing a crackhead girlfriend/boyfriend when I see one now that I've had experience with Nikki and Vanity, and Tansy and Sparkie. "Where is she at?" I ask once we get to his dressing room and see a picture of the Aneka girl he'd been telling me about in bits and pieces the past couple months. 

"Visiting her family." He tells me as there's a small knock at the door. 

"Yeah?!" Izzy calls and the door opens. 

"There he is!" Tansy says excitedly, Monroe laughing and showing a mouthful of teeth, getting down from me and running to her. 

"Tans!" He replies to her, just as happy to see her. 

"Oh, my goodness, you have gotten so tall since I last saw you." She tells him and he puts his bicep up and she grins, squeezing him to her. "You wanna go see uncle Axl?" 

"Yes!" 

"Is that okay? Just for a little bit." Tansy asks me and I nod.

"Yeah, that's fine." I say and she picks him up. 

"Alright, c'mon." She giggles and he waves at me. 

"See you in just a little bit." I tell him, waving. 

When she shuts the door, I fall back on the couch and groan, making Izzy raise his brows. "When we first got here, all I could hear was, 'daddy, daddy, daddy!'" I refer to Monroe and Izzy takes the cheap shot. 

"Sounds like you on a good night." He says before I can finish and I glare at him, making him laugh. 

"Sorry." He shrugs. 

"Anyway...we finally get here and all he sees is his dad throw a fit because he didn't have the perfectly formulated ratio of Vodka and cranberry juice." I state and he lets out a soft breath. "And then Nikki's drinking again, and I know he's drinking again because he calls me in the middle of the night, drunk, to complain about his wife--which I told him not to marry her because he barely had time to really get to know her but nope. Nobody ever listens to Viv. And Tansy said that tweedle-Duff and tweedle-Slash wake up and start their morning with alcohol, which is comforting...I've been talking to Steven's mom a lot and she said he's been going down hill again after he tried to sober up some…"

"Yeah, I heard." He rubs the back of his neck. 

"Axl's keeping Tansy from seeing anybody, he won't even let her call to check up on Steven right now. He thinks it'll trigger her to go off the deep end and get back on smack." I add. "Everything is just a shitshow at this point." 

"Yeah…" he mumbles, before a long pause sits between us, and he finally clears his throat and sighs. "Um, I need to tell you something that I haven't told any of the guys yet, and I don't know how you'll feel but just know I've thought about it a lot and think I should do it." 

"Izzy, I don't care if you're gay." I tell him and he sighs, giving a little smile…

"This is pretty serious." He says and I furrow my brows a little. "I want outta the band, Viv." 

I feel a punch in my stomach. 

First Steven, now Izzy...this is not how this was supposed to go…

"W-What?" 

"Izzy, c'mon!" Their manager calls. "You're on soon!" 

"We'll talk about it later, alright?" He says and I'm at a loss for words.

"Izzy," 

"It'll be alright, we'll talk about it." He assures me before stepping out.

Later that night, after Axl finally got on stage and the show was barely completed, Izzy and I split a room, Monroe and I taking a bed while Izzy takes the other. 

Once Monroe is tucked into bed after passing out on the way to the hotel, I sit and wait for Izzy to get out of the shower and end up dozing next to Monroe.

I slowly blink awake when I feel fingertips tapping at my forehead, and Izzy's crouched down by the bed beside me...a little smile on his lips. 

"Hey," he chuckles. 

"Hey." I say back, blinking once more…

"It's not about the music anymore, Viv. The egos and drugs and booze and pussy--it's all coming first. I'm tired of having a show at 8:00pm and not getting onstage 'til 11:45pm, and only staying on stage until 12:30am before Axl gets breathed on the wrong way and storms off." He says softly not to wake Monroe up. "And it didn't help when my royalties were in talks of getting cut...and then when Ax is constantly coming up with lawsuits or contracts or NDA's, it's bullshit. It started out as five of us against them. Now Steven's gone, Axl's God and Slash, Matt and Duff are killing themselves. I just want out." 

"You're breaking my heart, Izzy, you know that?"  I sniffle tiredly, trying not to cry. 

"I promise I'll be okay. This isn't gonna spring me into a relapse or anything." He assures me.

"I'm sorry for all of this happening." I admit and he shakes his head. 

"Nah...it doesn't have anything to do with you. Me and the guys just have our own things going and it's just time for me to go my own way." 

I just sniffle again, wiping a stray tear, and nod. 

"And we'll still stay in touch and stuff." He adds. "You'll still see me around."

"Promise?" I ask. 

"How else are we gonna keep tabs on each other to see if we gotta go through with our plan at forty-something." He shrugs. 

"Oh, please, you'll still be with Aneka and won't even be bothered with me." I tell him and he shakes his head a little. 

"Viv, I harassed you for nearly three years to marry me--even thought I didn't even fucking like the idea of marriage. If I went through that much trouble, I'm not gonna up and leave and only talk to you every blue moon." 

I smile a little, rubbing my lips together before saying, "does this mean you're finally acknowledging that we are, indeed, friends?"

He rolls his eyes and stands back up. 

"I didn't say that." He tells me and I chuckle. "G'night, Viv." 

"Goodnight."