#in any case，i'll hold on to the last crown for now and see what happens

[rubys-domain]

so... i think i've achieved consistent one-phase pyro regisvine by leveling up kazuha's burst to 6 and bennett's aquila favonia to 85. which is good. but it can be better. i want to get to the point where popping chongyun's burst is enough to kill it. for now i still have to do some normals and a second pop of his skill in order to kill it

[weirdsht]

cale with idiots in love trope

- "You're cute" "hm?" "I said you look like a boot."

- casual displays of affection, hand holding bc s/o would space out and may or may not get lost (directionally challenged)

- pretending everything is casual, but they're soooo in love with each other

- "I look like a mess" "the prettiest mess"

- the kids absolutely love when they get cuddles with cale and s/o

- maybe braiding cales hair??

- whenever cale goes somewhere and can't bring them, they'd go like "I'll be going for a while" (cale) "I'll always be here" (s/o)

- stealing cales clothes bc its comfy!!

- "are you asleep?" "...no" "wanna talk?"

- "I love you" "I've loved you my entire life"

Can’t Two People Be Friends? - Cale/Gn! Reader

tags: gender-neutral reader, deputy commander reader, getting together fic, vague novel spoilers, is told from Alberu's perspective, tired Alberu, save Alberu from his dumb dongsaeng, use of degrading words (e.g. stupid) but it's in a loving way, have I mentioned Alberu is tired of Cale's shit?

English isn’t my first language so there will be grammatical errors

Pls don't repost my work anywhere without my permission

Constructive criticisms and any kind of interaction are more than welcome

Requests are currently closed but my ask are still open (read navi)

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another anon said: cale who acts like a lover to his "closest confidant", though they are not in a relationship, they certainly do act like one– to the point that his crew would question them, to which they'd respond "We're just friends" "What do you mean? They look at you like you're their entire world"– which then starts their operation, get cale a lover

Cale Henituse is someone who has a lot of people under his wing. He's a heroic person busy saving the continents– no, the world. Which was why it is no surprise to find out that he has a close confidant. He has a second-in-command who helps him plan everything and is in charge of backup plans in case something goes wrong.

All of that is normal. Expected even.

What isn’t normal is how they act towards each other.

They act like… people who have a deeper relationship than just friends, for lack of a better term.

Like right now. [Name] is holding onto Cale’s arms as they navigate through this tiresome ball. Looking at him as if he had hung up the moon and the stars.

“Your Highness, you are quite close to the both of them… are we sure they are merely close friends?”

One of the nobles talking to Alberu Crossman questions as everyone watches the commander-and-deputy-commander duo dance in the centre of the hall.

“Of course they are. They have said so themselves.”

Alberu adds on at the end about how they shouldn’t inquire about another person’s private life.

However, Alberu himself is quite frustrated.

It was the truth when he said the two are nothing more than friends. And that’s what frustrates him. The two idiots can’t see the way they stare at each other. Can’t notice how they are unconsciously each other’s priority no matter what happens.

Alberu also knows that he isn’t the only one feeling this way.

No, as a matter of fact, everyone in Cale’s group feels the same frustration the future king feels.

“When will they get together? They deny their feelings as if we didn’t see them cuddling last night while reading a novel.”

On complained one day while eating the crown prince’s cookies.

“I’ve always known that our young master was quite dense in the aspect of love but… hmmm, I must say that this level is getting frustrating.”

Ron shared his own opinion as he served everyone tea.

Well everyone except the two people who are the topic of their discussion. Of course, they aren’t. For they were busy cuddling in the newly installed swing in the garden of the black castle while reading a novel. [Name] is busy platonically nuzzling their head in Cale’s chest, while Cale himself is busy platonically draping his legs over [name] as they lay down on the large swing.

‘Merely friends my ass’

Alberu thinks to himself as he watches the two from the window while sipping on the tea Ron served.

The people inside the room merely complained about Cale and [Name]’s relationship. They did not say anything about forcing them to get together and be in a romantic relationship.

And it’s not because they respect what the two have now.

No, it was simply because they didn’t need to say such things out loud. The complaints they have said out loud are enough confirmation to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

That everyone will be doing their best to show those two knuckleheads that what they have is more than platonic.

“You do know that you only let [Name] braid your hair like that. Do you realise just how much special privilege you give them?”

“What special privilege? The kids also braided my hair.”

Alberu’s dumb dongsaeng stared at him in confusion and the crown prince swears his about to have an aneurysm.

“Yes, but they are your kids. Of course, you’ll indulge them.”

“That is true…”

For a moment Alberu thought that they were finally heading somewhere.

“But [Name] is the only one who can braid my hair neatly like this.”

Turns out the only place they are heading to is back to square one.

Alberu pushed down the urge to smack a chair in his beloved dongsaeng’s face. How could he forget Ron’s existence? The Ron that does every task perfectly, but still could not braid the redhead’s hair because ‘only [Name] can do it perfectly’.

Cale better be glad Alberu didn’t transform Taerang into a hammer and threw it in his face.

“I love you, you know that right?”

[Name] had asked Cale during one of their cuddling sessions and Raon’s ears perked up.

“Of course I do.”

Cale answered casually and it got Raon’s hopes up.

“Are you guys together???”

He asked, eyes full of hope.

“What do you mean silly? Of course, we’re together, we’ve been friends for years now.”

That night Raon did not speak to any of them, and the two idiots only thought he was sick and tried to coax him to talk to them.

Subtle advances like that continued for a while before they all admitted defeat. One day Rosalyn even straight up asked [Name] how they felt about Cale. To which the deputy commander only responded with “he’s my best friend of course” before going on their merry way to steal another one of Cale’s clothes.

Just when all of them are about to give up Alberu caught the two of them talking in that same swing one night. 

He was about to go back to the palace. Only went to sneak into Raon’s castle to talk to Cale about an important business that cannot be said through a communication device. However, just as he was about to teleport back he heard the two.

“Why are you still awake?”

“I couldn’t sleep. You weren’t in bed.”

“Wanna talk then?”

Alberu silently scoffs at them. Even their conversations sound like their married already.

They talk for a few minutes. Topics vary from the mundane to philosophical questions no one can answer. 

It didn’t look like Alberu would get anything from eavesdropping so he thinks about going home.

But then…

“I know we’re both too busy. I know this will only add more burden to you. However, I must say it.”

[Name] spoke gently. Their eyes which were previously watching the stars shifted their focus to stare at Cale’s face.

“I love you. I love you so much. I love you more than life.”

That made the crown prince stop in his tracks. For a moment he remembers Raon’s complaints about how they seem to say “I love you” to each other without it meaning anything. For a moment he doubted if it was a confession.

Of course that didn’t stop him from recording the whole thing.

“I love you too. I’ve loved you this entire time. I’ll love you even after death.”

At Cale’s reciprocity, Alberu finally moved to give the privacy. He may want to see the two of them get together, but he does not want to see them kiss. A confession was enough to satisfy him.

But the irritation he feels from waiting for them to confess did not go away.

Hence why instead of going home he first went to his instructor, Choi Han.

Alberu Crossman did not say to the swordmaster. He only hands him a piece of paper before going back to his palace.

In that paper wrote:

The two idiots are finally together. I have a recording if anyone is interested. I’ll show it in exchange for a recording of you lightly smacking my lovely dongsaeng head upside-down. I’m sure my instructor will understand where I’m coming from.

Choi Han does. He greatly understands where his student was coming from.

That’s why, the next morning he was setting up a hidden recording device with a smile on his face.

Oh, he also got everyone’s permission before he set it up. In fact, most of them cheered at the thought of him physically knocking some sense in their young master’s head. 

[judesmoonbeauty]

Love Begins From a Mean Lie: Liam Evans Collection Event Story❥︎

Fan translation only. Not 100% accurate. Please expect grammatical errors. Cybird owns everything. Feel free to re-blog, but please do NOT post my translations elsewhere. What I obtain is what will be translated. Translation notes are marked with *** Alternate translation is marked with/// Dividers: @/natimiles

Liam: Victor, what's going on? Katie and I are going to be separated for a few days…..

Victor: I'm sorry. I've been making adjustments and considering things, but... due to circumstances, it just ended up happening.

Victor: ...... First, Kate I want you to infiltrate a women's club where there are rumors of drug deals going on.

Kate: When it comes to women's clubs, only women can infiltrate them.

Victor: Given Crown’s busy schedule, it would be impossible for him to dress as a woman, so I have no choice but to ask you Kate.

Liam: Can't I sneak into that women's club, too? I can even cross dress!!

Liam approaches Victor, threatening to take off his clothes and put on the dress at any second.

Victor: Liam, I would like you to work with Harrison to investigate illegal gambling establishments in the suburbs.

Victor: We need tickets to enter the gambling hall, but I only have one available.

Victor: So, Liam I want you to use your ability to disappear and infiltrate.

(There are places where only women can enter, and places where you have to disappear to enter……)

(……both of those missions are irreplaceable.)

Liam: ……

Liam: ……ok, I get it.

Victor: I’m sorry, Liam. Thank you for understanding.

Victor: While you can't be by her side, I'll be more careful than usual to make sure Kate is never in danger.

Victor: How about having Roger on standby, so he can be there when she needs help?

Liam: Yea... In that case, I’ll feel a little relieved.

When Victor told him about the schedule for the next mission, he was satisfied for a while…….

On the way home, Liam was completely depressed.

(......Liam, are you sure you're okay?)

So far, I've seen him get anxious many times before just because he can't see me even a little bit.

(This lasts for several days.…..)

Kate: Um, Liam…..

Liam: ….okay!

Liam suddenly slapped his own cheeks with his hands.

Liam: I'm sorry for looking so bitter, Katie. I changed my mind.

Liam: Even if you’re not here Katie….I'll be fine!

Kate: Really....?

Liam smiles and holds out his little finger to reassure me.

Liam: I'll complete the mission perfectly and come back to see you soon …. I promise.

Kate: Then I'll finish my mission safely and wait for you to come back Liam.

I smiled back at Liam as we intertwined our little fingers.

Liam: Haaa……Katie.

Harrison: Hey, how many times have you sighed? They say that when you sigh, happiness escapes from you. 

Liam: ……Which direction is Crown Castle in?

Harrison: From this position, it's southeast... so, isn't it over there? 

Liam: Haaa…..

Liam: I hope the happiness that escaped from me reaches Katie.

Harrison: ……We’re about to go on a mission, and you're not ready.

Liam: It's a symptom of Katie deficiency.

Liam: …..Don't you think the picture on that signboard looks a bit like Kate?

Liam: I feel like the flowers on the roadside there also look like Kate……

Liam: Katie…..I’m fine. 

Harrison: Don't talk to the flowers .....

Harrison: .…I thought you told Kate you were okay to come out.

Liam: Because if I cried forever about not wanting to leave, Kate would be troubled, right?

Liam: Even if I didn’t mean it...I have no choice but to say so.

Harrison: You sound like a toddler who is reluctant to go to preschool because he doesn't want to be away from his parents.

Liam: ….Hey, Harry. Can you do me a favor?

Harrison: What?

Liam: ..... I hope you'll imitate Isla and support me.

Harrison: Huh?

Liam: I need to intake Katie’s dosage……I’m already on…..

Liam: I may go back to Crown Castle right now without completing my mission.

Harrison: ..... Can you promise me that if I imitate her, you’ll get back on track and complete the mission perfectly?

Liam: I promise!

Harrison: ..... You're not lying. I'll do it because I have to, but don't laugh.

Harrison: Hmmm …….Liam! I'm rooting for you Liam! Keep up the good work! 😭

Liam:……Not at all.

Liam: Katie’s arms are angled like this. The direction of her neck is like this. The way her legs open is like this..... Haaa.

Liam: Harry, your poor impersonation has made me want to see Katie even more….

Harrison: ........ I can't do it.

(Haa….)

Kate: Liam! Welcome back!

A few days after Liam and I were separated for a mission.

Liam finally returned to Crown Castle after completing his mission.

Liam: Isla, I'm back……!

Liam hugged me tightly while we were talking.

The painful embrace made me feel that Liam was indeed here, and I was very happy.

Harrison: I'll report back to Victor on the mission, so Liam can go off with Isla, okay?

Liam: No problem! Thanks, Harry!

Harrison: You can buy me a table full of sweet treats later and we can call it even about the mission.

Kate: About the mission….?  What happened?

Liam: While on the mission, I asked Harry a rather difficult request.

Liam: For Harry's honor, I can't go into details...

Liam: I was faced with the obvious fact that there is no one who can replace you Katie.

Liam, who must have been exhausted, took me in his arms and ran in a straight line from the entrance hall to his room.

Before the open door is completely closed, my lips are quickly snatched away.

Kate: Mmm…….haa…..

Liam: ….I missed you, Katie…..

After many intense kisses to fill the missing time, we finally pull away.

Liam: I've done my …….mission perfectly, just as I promised. How did you do while I was gone, Kate?

Kate: The mission I was on went off without a hitch! There was nothing dangerous about it.

Liam: Good…..

Kate: I was also relieved. Even though we were a part, you were able to carry out your duties without any problems, Liam.

Liam: That’s…..

Liam: …. It was more like I was the one who had the problem by being a part.

Liam: ….What?

Kate: Even though you weren’t there Liam, when we were eating, I'd turn around to the one next to me and say, “It's delicious, Liam.” 

Kate: Even when I was writing my report, I mistakenly wrote your name Liam for a completely different person...

Kate: I was worried about you before I left...but I was the one who wasn't okay.

I remembered my days at Crown Castle with Liam by my side.

Meals that were supposed to be delicious were tasteless, and even when the sky cleared, I didn't feel better.

With each passing day, the world seemed to gradually fade away.

Liam: That's not true! I wasn't okay at all either!

Liam: I didn't want to worry you, so I lied and said I was fine...... 

Liam: I was lonely and sad and pained when I left you Kate.... I was going crazy.

(I wasn't the only one...) 

Liam: I'm sorry. I keep telling you I want to change……

Liam: Katie, I can’t leave you, I’m still so weak and useless…..

Kate: That's not true! I like the Liam, who is trying to change and moving forward.

Kate: There is no time limit, so don't be in a hurry to ……change.

Kate: Besides, if you were to leave me so quickly, I would feel lonely too.

Liam: Yeah…..

We smile, we kiss, and we make love again.

Liam's brazen lies taught me that we’re deeply in love, and I don't want to be apart even for a moment.

And then -

Liam: Hey, Isla. Actually I think I bumped myself a little bit on my mission......

Liam: May I ask you to check to see if there are any bruises?

Kate: What? That's a big deal ...... I have to check it out right away!

I rush to undress Liam.

Kate: There's nothing in particular about the upper body, but….

Liam: Then maybe it’s on my lower body?

Kate: Lower body…….

Liam: Yeah, I'd like you to help me check! I can't see much by myself.

Liam, who replies, is very energetic and doesn't look like he is in any pain.

Kate: Um……Liam, I'm sorry if I'm mistaken.

Kate: Are you lying, by any chance?

Liam: …..You found out?

Kate: Liam, you said it yourself, you’re a bad liar…

Liam: I wanted you to spoil me and take off my clothes, so I lied to you Katie…Sorry!

Kate: If that's the reason, I can't get angry.

Kate: In exchange for forgiveness, Liam I’ll ask you to help me get undressed as punishment.

Kate: Now are you going to undress me Liam.....?

Liam: …..Then it's not a punishment, it's a treat, Katie.

Giggling and giggling, we kissed again and…naughty lies deepened our evening.

I shed a tear over Harrison today LOL!

[Master List]

[pascaloverx]

LAST LOVE — MYG

SUMMARY: You are about to become the Queen of Murak, a kingdom previously ruled by your father, the King. But there is something wrong with you, something your subjects must never suspect. You were born with powers, one of them being the ability to transform into a dragon. Because of a curse, you are condemned to be abnormal for the rest of your life. One of the only ways to alleviate your situation is by getting married. When Prince Yoongi offers to marry you, you feel there is a glimmer of hope at the end of the tunnel.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: This fanfiction will be a fantasy fanfic involving royalty. As the story progresses, a love triangle may develop, but for now, this fanfic will focus on Yoongi and the reader. This story will feature scenes of violence, fantasy, and romance. Inappropriate language will also be used, so minors should not interact with this fanfic. Other BTS members may appear in the fanfic. Taehyung will be an important character. I hope you engage with the fanfic and help it move forward.

AO3 LINK ONE

PREVIEW

When you were born, there was a seven-night-long celebration. Your father was so happy to finally have an heir that he couldn't contain his joy. Your mother was recovering from childbirth but was ecstatic that her baby was born healthy. She had been pregnant three times before finally giving birth to you. The kingdom no longer believed that any child would come out of her alive. So when you were born, she felt that she had fulfilled her life's purpose.

"Princess Y/L/N, the suitor for the engagement is already at the palace. As requested by Your Highness, the King has not been informed. But I must stress that the Princess is taking a risk." Taehyung, being a good advisor to the King, is always willing to help the crown's most precious jewel, which is you.

"Remember when we were children and played hide and seek? You always found me easily, so one time I hid in one of those secret hiding places in the palace and got stuck? That's my life now, stuck with this secret that only a few people know. The people are afraid of being attacked by a beast while I am afraid of being discovered. Every time I transform, I feel my humanity fade a little. The few books that talk about creatures like me say that after marriage, the situation becomes controlled. I need this, Taehyung. More than anything. I need control, and that control can only come from marrying someone. I can't wait for my parents to decide when that will happen." You speak as you approach Taehyung, who is dressed in formal attire. You gently touch his hands, holding them. He looks at you as if he wants to embrace you, but then he seems to come back to himself and steps back.

"I dare not say that the King and Queen are wrong. But I am on your side. Prince Yoongi is waiting for you. Go see if he is the answer to your prayers. Your parents will be out of the palace for the next few hours, but try to be brief. And remember that I'll be nearby, in case the Prince turns out to be a jerk." Taehyung reassures you once again why he is your best friend and confidant. You adjust your dress once more on your body and hug Taehyung. He doesn't like it when you break royal protocol like this, but you don't mind.

The path to the garden where Taehyung left the Prince seems so short when you're almost running the distance. The guards are watching you but they don't approach. Most of the time they leave you be because they like you. But there are those who fear you. They wonder why sometimes you disappear, only to reappear injured. Or why every time you vanish, the people of the kingdom claim to have seen a flying beast. When you arrive almost out of breath in the garden, you spot a man. A handsome man with dark hair, equally dark eyes, and a mysterious gaze.

"You're different from what I imagined. I mean, from the rumors; I thought you'd have claws or sharp teeth. Maybe even breathe fire. But you seem proper." Prince Yoongi speaks while still facing away from you. You're still catching your breath as you look at him uncertain of what to say. You're aware that your parents' efforts to protect your secret have only fueled the people's imagination about why you don't interact with them much.

"I should return the compliment and say the same. From the rumors about you, I thought you'd try to impregnate me without even speaking a word to me. But I see you're capable of having a conversation without trying to grab anyone." You speak, looking directly at him as he turns to face you with a mischievous look. He smiles knowingly, as if he appreciated your response, and then approaches.

"I appreciate someone who can come up with such a quick-witted response. That's why I'll propose something to you, no beating around the bush; tell me why you brought me here without your King's consent." Yoongi gets straight to the point, seeming impatient. You sigh, thinking about how to explain your situation. Then you approach him gently to speak calmly.

"There's a secret I carry, something I can't reveal right now. But I need a husband, and I know you need a wife. Your father is ready to strip you of all royal privileges. Your brother is about to marry and produce an heir to the throne. Be my husband, and I will make you Consort King; you can enjoy the good life without worrying about ruling for the people. You just have to be a good husband." You speak, looking at him with certainty. You know he's eager to break free from the constraints of being a Prince, but wouldn't survive a day as a commoner. You've researched him thoroughly, learned every detail about him.

"Your proposal seems overly generous. However, I need to know exactly what secret I'll be guarding for you. It's not fair for me to accept carrying a burden without knowing its weight. But fear not, I'm hardly easily impressed." Yoongi speaks, smiling proudly at himself. You look at him seriously, contemplating the consequences of revealing your other form. Well, if he dares to run from you, you could easily eat him, and his father would probably thank you.

"I can't reveal the secret until we are committed. You could walk away and expose my secret. Commit to me, and I'll commit to you." You respond calmly, trying not to panic at the thought of him running away and leaving you with no options. He's the third prince you've approached. Surely he has more to lose than the others, but you're running out of time.

"Are your guards trustworthy?" Yoongi asks, pointing his finger towards all the guards who are watching us. He's perceptive, that's good. You'll need an efficient husband.

"Surely they are," you respond, not understanding his reason for asking. He then moves closer to you, gently touching your face. He brings his mouth close to yours, pulling you into a delicate and soft kiss. Nothing forceful, but still very dangerous. Your guards immediately surround you both, as if waiting for a signal to attack.

"You can take this as our commitment. Tell me your secret, I won't say a word. If I do, you can claim I'm an opportunist who stole a kiss from you, and I'll likely be exiled," he says, gently pulling his face away from yours. You feel a slight difficulty in breathing, unsure if you're filled with anger or desire. Nevertheless, you sense your dragon form signaling the need to be set free.

"Follow me," you speak with a hint of anger in your voice. You glance at the guards around you and wave your hand downward, signaling them to lower their weapons. They comply, allowing you and Prince Yoongi to make your way outside the palace walls. He remains silent as he follows you toward the "dangerous" part of the forest.

Before you could even reach the heart of the forest, your transformation begins. Within minutes, your arms morph into wings, your legs into a tail, and you, once human, become a dragon. You remain silent in your transformed state but retain your human-like thoughts. Unsure if Yoongi is still nearby, you scan the area, devoid of trees in this part of the forest.

"You've got to be kidding me!" You hear from behind you, and you turn to look. Yoongi wears a look of surprise, not horror, but utter disbelief. It's as if he can't believe what just happened.

You snort a hot breath from your dragon nostrils, giving him your best dragon's judgmental look. He approaches you cautiously, reaching out to touch your face. He runs his hand over your scales, exploring tentatively. Though your instinct is to breathe fire and end it all, you let him touch you in your dragon form.

"Please don't take this the wrong way, but you're enormous. My lord, I don't even know what to say. If it's a compliment, you're a magnificent dragon. Not that you're unattractive in human form. But wow, this is impressive. You've truly surprised me," Yoongi says, still touching you gently, as if petting you. However, you roar in his direction, and he stumbles backward, falling to the ground. It's a bit comical. Immediately, you transform back into your human form, leaving Yoongi somewhat embarrassed. You forgot to tell him that when he returned to human form he would be naked. But you have a change of clothes stored near where you usually transform. Quickly as Yoongi closes his eyes, you put some clothes.

"I accept." He speaks while still on the floor, with his fingers covering his eyes and you still finishing getting dressed.

"Accept what?" You shout since you are a little far away from him. A few minutes later you approach him and take his fingers out of his eyes.

"To be your husband. To carry this burden with you, as long as we make one thing clear. You rule the country, but you don't rule me. I will be able to do and fuck whoever I want." He looks determined as he stands up. You want to kick him for talking like that but fuck it. You just need a wedding, nothing more.

"I will see what I can do for you but I do not expect loyalty from you. As for your obedience to me as Queen, know that I can transform into a dragon and set you on fire in the blink of an eye." You don't always need to transform into a dragon to scare men. Yoongi is no different, but at the same time as he is scared of you, it seems like he is excited. And then he reaches his hand towards you and you hold his hand, shaking it.

"It feels like the beginning of a beautiful partnership." Yoongi speaks as you shake your hands, and by the look in his eyes, you feel like you're probably going to regret this.

[egittae]

"So you've made it this far?" As before, Matthias approached the other man, a glass of water in hand. "It's not so hard when you properly apply yourself. I hope you've learned that lesson well now." He sat next to him on the small little porch, the overhang protecting them from the sun. "I'm-" There was a pause and he turned to fully face Lambert. "I'm glad to call you my king. Even if you aren't all there yet...I'm glad I was able to see this side of you, even if only for a moment." He took a sip from his own glass and it was refreshing. No matter what happened next, he could be satisfied with his own performance and with the man he called a dear friend. "After we win this, I'll make sure to reconcile my earlier insolence...so make sure we do, Lamby." The nickname was punctuated by a small bump of the shoulder and a head quickly turned away, as if to hide the expression that colored it.

“Hah, when you say it like that…sadly, I fear that I did not do much compared to my partner. I was tasked with fetching us points, but Tormod’s quest made my efforts seem like an afternoon stroll.” I will make up for him later. “We both did our best, but I feel improper. I should be doing much more than this.”

Lambert genuinely felt bad. His part of the game has been fairly easy and monotonous- wander around the maze and fetch some cards, with only the ending portion bringing a more dramatic factor to the equation. If anything his part had been stupidly easy compared to what Tormod had gone through alongside the others at the rose maze outside. 

While his partner raced through the entire house caked in mud and more likely exhausted and sore, Lambert was fine. He didn’t escape from any pitfalls, nor got dragged off by huge birds or anything. He was fine, and in the end both managed to pull through together.

And somehow that had weighed on him tremendously, to the point he felt that the whole ordeal had lasted an entire moon. It was shameful to say, but he was tired- if not physically, mentally. He wasn’t sure if it was the roaming around a mostly silent maze with only disembodied voices in the distance as his company, or if perhaps everything that had happened in the first two weeks had finally begun taking a toll on the professor’s psyche, but Lambert felt so very tired.

But it wouldn’t show. If there was one thing Lambert had already noticed was that his mind and body seemed to have a natural reflex to not allow exhaustion to become transparent. There wasn’t even an effort on his part, to the point he only noticed what was happening after he sat down and really thought about it- shortly before going to the porch and being joined by Matthias.

It made sense, though. It would be quite poor for a king’s image to be seen taken by fatigue. 

I'm glad to call you my king.

He couldn’t exactly agree. Said king, if it was indeed the case, was still far too lost in the blizzard. The trail was there and Lambert was diligently following it, but he’d be lying if he were to say he had a grasp on who he was supposed to be.

“...when you say it like that, I have no option but to hold on to it, do I? Even with no crown to claim.”

But then again, even if that grasp was weak, he had to believe in himself and on who he was. Because if he didn’t, who would? Matthias claimed he would, but Lambert knew the man’s faith in him could waver the moment any weakness or hesitation became noticeable. If Lambert truly wished to become himself again, it would have to start with him believing in himself. It was his conviction and will that made him king once, and it would be them that would make him king a second time.

“Reconcile your insolence by returning victorious, then. If not, then I might have to tell Rodrigue that you lost big time in a beach vacation game in front of an audience.” He winked with a small smile.

Lambert didn’t even know whose name that was, but it just slipped through his slips- and it just sounded right.

[magicluckystars]

Speaking of ikemen/otome games; I want to ask you about the game you seem to really like; lovebrush chronicles

Tell me all about your faves (and least favourites if you have any), what the suitors are like, do you like how the MC(?) Is written, anything is fair game

first of all, thank you so much for asking!! I rarely get any asks like this so this made me really happy!

To answer your question, the game is about travelling through different universes. (The game's Chinese name literally means "the time travelling painter" or something like that) basically the MC (you) is an art major at this one school on an island, St. Shelter Academia (weird name i know) the MC is also a manga author however, and no one else knows except this one guy (I'll explain more about him later, he doesn't have any routes in the main story but he does in events) the MC created the manga because she's been having dreams about it for a while, but she was getting stuck on the content lately

you also adopt a cat

don't wanna spoil it for you in case you wanna find out for yourself, but stuff happens and you get isekaid to the world. in your manga. There you find out that you've been writing manga about an alternate universe, and the 5 (4?) love interests all play important roles in the story

Basically their country was being terrorized by ice butterflies that freeze everything they touch, so it's a neverending winter there. only the mages can hold the butterflies off but the public doesn't trust them

Now onto the love interests!!

the universe the MC came from is the Modern universe (earth) and the alternate universe is Godheim.

Lars is a wealthy entrepreneur who also happens to be a big fan of your manga (he doesn't know that you wrote it though). He's one of the school's investors.

In Godheim, he's the tyrannical emperor who summons you to that world and says that you're to be his bride.

I don't wanna paint him in a negative light because he's actually very caring and holds family close to his heart, he's also one of the few characters in Godheim that can take a joke lol. basically silly happy emperor actually has trauma. He is also a feminist.

His route is really sweet and pretty good but it wasn't my personal favorite.

Ayn is his cousin. In Godheim, he and clarence have an alliance.

His route has the second-most bad endings. He shares this with Ayn.

He's also the tallest-

Clarence is the student council president who abides by the rules and gets good grades. He's also a law major.

In Godheim, he is the steely cold, merciless Archmage (the leader of all the mages) of Magi Tower. He was the one who did the ritual to summon you, and he was gonna keep you in a bird cage with roses on it but Lars said no so you're allowed to roam the castle but if you make even the tiniest of mistakes BAM. Back in the cage.

Clarence isn't my favorite so I don't know much about him, but he wants you to do well so he tries to push you to do so.

Clarence's Godheim route is the last one, so it's where you uncover the secrets of godheim. I didn't like his route much but I did enjoy seeing his soft side. Also, you get to beat a pervert's ass. And the MC cusses in this route (she says "grade A ass whooping). It's amazing.

His route has the most bad endings.

Ayn is a music major and a freshman like you. He's really popular but also doesn't really like interacting with people, he's very much of an introvert. He can come off as rude but he's just tsundere. he's also a gamer, and a pretty dedicated one at that. He very much believes in tough love. He's not the comforting type.

In Godheim, he is the stubborn leader of the Inquisitors, who basically kill rebels and people who disobey the king. He was originally the crown prince but Lars took it from him (the reason why is a spoiler) and Ayn wants to kill Lars as revenge for that. He's been biding his time in order to do that.

Ayn's route was one of my favorites, it was action-packed yet still soft at the same time. Also, his outfit is 😳

I'm pretty sure his route has the same number of bad endings as lars.

He's the shortest.

Alkaid (my favorite!!) helps you and Ayn in this route.

And now, for my favorite, Alkaid!!

He's the kind upperclassman who helps you get settled at school. He's a junior I think, an astronomy major. He's so sweet I swear to God ❤❤ he has a cat, and your cat and his cat play together often. He likes gardening.

In Godheim, alkaid is the submissive but kind mage assigned to protect you and watch you for clarence. Clarence is his boss. He's one of the most powerful mages in the Magi Tower. Anything else I say will be a spoiler for the entirety of Godheim...

In both universes, even though he is kind and believes in the good of people, he doesn't let himself get walked all over and doesn't hesitate to stand up for others if necessary.

Alkaid's route is tooth-rotting fluff. It's so cute because with your help he finally realizes that he shouldn't be afraid to fight or question authority, and that he can't just let everything happen if there's something he can do. His route is my favorite, next to Ayn. It also has the least amount of bad endings, only two, but let me tell you those two bad endings are soul crushing. I got a bad end on my first playthrough and it RIPPED ME APART.

Last but not least, Cael. If you're into butler type characters then he is for you. Cael is the one who took care of you when your mom died (your dad died when you were like 3).

In Godheim, he is the silver knight leading the rebellion against the emperor.

I don't have much to say on him because he's not my favorite and he doesn't have a route, but he's behind the bigger mysteries in Godheim.

He plays a big role in Lars' route.

after Godheim, you can pick an ending for one suitor where you're both happy together. After that, the next world is Eden but I'm not going to go too much into that because i like godheim more

The mc is gorgeous. Her facial expressions in the cards are everything.

All in all the game's pretty good, but it's not very well-known here so it has a fairly small and non-toxic fandom

In the battles, something called "assist events" can trigger where you have to choose the correct option to get a buff. If you choose the incorrect option then you get a debuff. The voice acting is amazing and the illustrations are really pretty, the soundtrack is beautiful too

Sorry for the word dump ;; I just wrote and wrote and i didn't see how big it got 😅

Hope this answered your question!! lots of platonic kisses and i hope you're doing well <33

[uweiy]

Rightful place - part 3.4

pt 3.2

Yohan had been in a terrible mood the whole day without any discernible cause, snapping at Elijah and madam Ji for petty reasons. Even Kkomi was avoiding him, probably sensing the inhospitable aura.

Gaon felt at a loss.

"I think he needs some time alone" he eventually declared  – after having managed to lure Kkomi back into the house, comforted madam Ji and calmed down Elijah. Unsurprisingly, everyone among the aforementioned subjects had agreed, dispersing like mice through the house to their preferred hiding spots and respective rooms.

It's late in the evening when Gaon dares to set a foot outside, into the now dark and quiet halls of the house.

He finds Yohan in the living room, in a silky black – half opened – evening gown over simple black pants. There is no one else, but he's sitting on only half the couch, the TV playing with the volume so low it just blurs into background noise.

"Uhm." Gaon clears his throat as he's approaching, lest Yohan jumps at him if Gaon enters his space unannounced. "Do you want to–"  talk "–a drink ?"

Yohan simply raises his eyes at Gaon, not completely icy, but not inviting either. In any case he says nothing and Gaon feels kind of stupid, just standing there awkwardly.

"Okay then I'll just-" and he turns to leave

Yohan catches his sleeve "Stay."

"Oh. uh. Okay." Gaon obliges and sits down on the couch.

Yohan says nothing, still. But he has a kind of tired out look, the same Gaon saw in his eyes that day, as he seemed to still be blinking leftover ashes from hellish flames out of his vision after a night plagued by nightmares. 

Tell me what happened. Why does it plague you so ?

But Gaon doesn't know how to broach the subject without winding Yohan up, and that's the last thing he wants right now. 

Gaon takes a deep breath. Well. Here goes nothing.

"Can I see it again?"

It seems to pull Yohan out of his thoughts at least as some light returns to his eyes and he scrutinizes Gaon, as if to confirm Gaon really did speak.

"Your scar." Gaon presses, trying his best to hold his ground. There is no backtracking now, and he has learned Yohan doesn't really refuse him anything if he's insistent enough.

"Feeling bold tonight are we." Yohan remarks, but there is no heat in it.

It's not really a question therefore Gaon doesn't really feel the need to answer, and just puts on his best subtly pleading face.

"Suit yourself." Yohan says nonchanalantly, his voice perfectly level, yet Gaon knows Yohan's attention is now focused on him.

Yohan turns his back to Gaon, and unfastens the belt that was holding the overgown together. The silken material smoothly glides from his shoulders, and Gaon has to keep himself from flinching.

It must have hurt. It must still hurt, to have a reminder of the probably worst day of your life, permanently etched into your skin.

Gaon lightly touches his fingers to the top of the cross, and feels how Yohan tries to suppress an almost imperceptible shudder, feels the slight tensing and relaxing  of his muscles under Gaon's fingers as he applies just the faintest of pressures.

Gaon traces it with his fingers. from the base of Yohan's neck, down to the middle of the cross, in the middle of Yohan's back, where the scar tissue is the thickest.

"Does it hurt ?"

Silence.

"Not anymore." Yohan's says eventually. His head is lightly titlted forward, exposing the nape of his neck, his hair falling over his eyes. His voice seems to come from far away "Not that often".

The pattern of the scarred tissue is mesmerizing, different vein-like streaks weaving together to create an intricate organic pattern, like thorns entwining into a crown. Except it's not circular, but sharply running across Yohan's back in one horizontal and one vertical streak.

Gaon presses his lips to the place where he first touched his fingers to, reverend.

Yohan stills. Not that he was moving much, but where before he felt soft and pliant now he feels completely motionless, rigid and unmoving like a statue almost.

Gaon presses another kiss, a bit lower, on Yohan's clavicle. The left branch of the cross. Then under Yohan's clavicle.

Yohan turns abruptly and catches Gaon's wrist.  "What do you think you're doing ?"

"Am I doing anything ?" Gaon answers innocently, parroting the words he has so often heard from Yohan.

Yohan's eyes scan Gaon's face. "I don't need to be babied."

Gain lets out a short incredulous huff. "You think that's what I'm doing ?

"I was thinking of something more along the lines of..."seducing you. "distracting you."

"You might want to think again." Yohan says, eyes dark, voice low, and Gaon know he means it as a warning but it just sends shivers through his body as warmth pools in his stomach. God, Yohan is intoxicating.

"I don't think I do." Gaon murmurs, and he can see the exact moment Yohan's restraint breaks.

Then he is everywhere. He's kissing Gaon, hungry, fast and rough, his fingers dipping below Gaon's waistband, under his shirt. Gaon tries to grab onto something but there is already no shirt to hold on to, so instead he lets his fingers wander everywhere he can reach.

He breaks apart. "Stop. Stop .Wait. Wait wait."

"What." Yohan almost growls. And Gaon wants to laugh.

"How about somewhere more comfortable and Less... Windy ?" He gestures at the open, hudge, cold living room.

"Windy." Yohan repeats, as if he understands the word but can't for the life of him make out what Gaon is saying. He just seems so out of it, breathing a hitch fastened, eyes just a tad clouded, which might not seem like much to the average observer but it does, to Gaon.

Then Yohan rakes his hand through his hair and Gaon almost dies.

"Okay, princess." Yohan says finally.

"Princ–" Gaon starts to say, indignantly, but Yohan is already up, and pulls Gaon upwards with such force Gaon might have stumbled forward, were Yohan not already dragging Gaon towards Yohan's own room by his wrist.

Yohan has barely shut the heavy black gold-plated door behind him that he pushes Gaon onto the bed, without any semblance of delicacy. Not that Gaon minds, really. In fact the only thing he minds is that Yohan isn't being as rough as he could be, like in the short distance to his room some of the restraint, some of the fear came back to him.

"Your sheets are so high quality." is what Gaon says.

Surely there must be something wrong with his brain to mouth connection. But really, seeing Kang Yohan, hair disheveled, lips kiss flushed and skin glistening might do that to a man.

Yohan seems to think the same – the former point, that there is somethin wrong with Gaon's brain– because he presses his hand onto Gaon's mouth and only achingly slowly removes it as he drops down closer.

His eyes are dark and the little light coming in from the window highlights the creases on his face, the sharpness of his cheekbones.

"It might wise..." He's so close. Gaon can feel his breath on his lips. "...To stop talking."

Gaon pulls upward against Yohan's weight pinning him to the bed with the little defiance he has left, just to get Yohan to finally, stop being so careful "Or what ?"

"I'll make you."

Then finally Yohan's mouth is on his and Gaon doesn't talk for a very long time.

___

They fall asleep, Yohan's head against Gaons' collarbone, Gaon's fingers softly tangled in his hair at the back of his neck. He wants to believe this Kang Yohan, the Kang Yohan he knows is the real one, so, so bad.

___

"Where is Gaon ? He isn't in his room."

"And good morning to you too Elijah."

Gaon, as if summoned, trudges out of Yohan's room, wearing Yohan's silky wine red shirt, and a bedhead that would put the old scarecrows Yohan knows are somewhere in this house's attic, to shame.

"Coffee is in the Kitchen." Yohan says and inclines his head towards said room. Gaon mumbles something that resembles a thanks in response and moves along.

Elijah silently watches the entire scene unfolding, with her usual dispationnate yet judgmental glance, a feat only she can achieve, truly.

"Are you dating Gaon ?" she asks, the moment Gaon has disappeared in the kitchen and they can hear the clinks of pots and cutlery, the sound of boiling water.

Yohan doesn't raise his eyes from his newspaper "Where did that come from, I wonder."

He does not.

Elijah simply crosses her arms.  "My eyes do work."

"What does it matter to you?" Yohan says.

"I think it matters to him."

Yohan settles for a noncommittal grunt and resumes reading.

"So ?" Elijah persists.

He almost kicks his feet into the air in irritation, but he doesn't, because he's Judge Kang Yohan and a grown man, he reminds himself. 

"Dear lord you're insistent." A beat.

"Maybe."

.

.

___

Then Cha Gyeong Eui kills herself and everything goes south.

____

<<part 3.2 <part 3.3(ao3 only*)

>part 4 prologue

ao3

*bc it's very short and not necessary to understand the story

💙Masterpost❤️

[alj4890]

I have a few things I’m still working on. This weekend I had planned to write and post more, yet a family emergency completely destroyed that notion. Here’s some (longer than usual)  peeks into what I’ve been creating in case anyone is interested. I will be posting the next chapter to And The I Left You within the next couple of days. That series will be wrapping up soon and I’ll be posting for these next ones along with requests and such. The three I’m sharing are the Dark TRR AU All Through the Night, The Thomas Hunt Worth the Wait What If AU to this series, and my first Open Heart series, Mixed Signals

Tagging those who might want to see what’s coming next 😉

@gkittylove99​ @krsnlove @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @yourmajesty09 @mom2000aggie @ofpixelsandscribbles @twinkleallnight @lodberg @twinkleallnight @amandablink @neotericthemis  @mm2305 @sfb123 @iufilms​ @sophxwithers @flyawayboo​ @trappedinfanfiction​

All Through the Night

Cordonia's Royal Palace, 2 a.m.

"Heeeerah!” Olivia threw her daggers as hard as she could while doing a roundhouse kick.

The blades struck into the chest, head, and groin of the makeshift dummy.

She brushed the few strands of red hair that had escaped her hair clip out of her eyes. With a great deal of scrutiny, she studied her dagger placement.

"The one to the head needs to go deeper."

She spun around with a start at that all too familiar voice.

"You're late." She folded her arms and tapped her foot.

Liam rubbed the back of his neck. "Sorry. Had to stop off for a quick bite."

Olivia rolled her eyes. "That's not funny."

"Not that kind of bite." He teased, holding up a styrofoam box.

"Oh." She blinked in surprise. "I forget that you enjoy normal food too."

He chuckled at that. "There are certain foods that I don't think any man could ever give up."

Olivia decided to ignore that as she wiped the sweat from her face and neck. "Now that you're here, let's get the formalities over with."

"Very well." Liam gestured toward her. "You may go first."

She sat down on a bench lining one side of the palace gym. She motioned for him to join her.

"Not you!" She hissed when she saw his all too familiar guard.

Drake Walker bristled at her tone. His brown eyes clashed with her green.

"Give us a moment, please." Liam asked him.

"Don't let your guard down." Drake warned. "Remember, she's a Nevarkis."

Olivia tensed. "Perhaps you should remember what happened the last time you said something like that."

She quirked one eyebrow at the man and felt a sense of glee when he winced in memory.

His hand automatically drifted to his side where one of her daggers had once struck true.

With a quick bow to Liam, Drake stepped back out into the hallway.

Liam shook his head. "Are you two ever going to get along?"

"Stop talking stupid." Olivia snapped. "Now then, as you know...I must have my revenge."

"I know." Liam folded his arms and leaned casually against a column.

She eyed him for any sign of hatred.

It drove her crazy how unvampiric he could be.

He seemed almost human.

He seemed...kind.

A vampire is nature's evil incarnate. You can never trust a Rhys.

Those words had been drummed into her skull by her parents and then her aunt after their deaths by Constantine's hand.

And yet...Liam had done the unthinkable.

He had actually been a friend to Olivia.

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

The night after her parents' funeral, five year old Olivia had been sitting alone before the fireplace, weeping over them.

Her aunt had left her to deal with her own grief and to plan the next attack upon Constantine.

As she searched for a tissue, Olivia jumped back with a shriek at the little blonde haired boy that held the Kleenex box.

His eyes were filled with unshed tears as he handed her a tissue.

"Who are you?" She asked, remembering that a Nevarkis must always be brave.

"I'm Liam." He explained. "I wanted to...I wanted to tell you I'm sorry about your parents." He sniffed and took a tissue for himself. "My mom died too."

Olivia blinked and took a cautious step forward. "Are you...are you a vampire?!"

He nodded.

She whipped out the dagger her mother had given her and rushed at him.

Liam moved faster than she could comprehend, gently keeping her hand above her head.

"Let go of me, monster!" She ordered. "You're why I'm all alone!"

"I didn't do anything." He told her, anguish taking over his handsome features. "I don't want to hurt you or anyone."

"Liar!" She snapped. "That's what you do. Lie and kill." Her tears ran faster down her cheeks. "And now you'll kill me."

"I won't." He promised. "I swear I won't hurt you." He ignored his own tears trickling down his cheeks. His blue eyes burned with resolve. "My mother made me promise never to hurt a human."

Olivia shook her head. It had to be lies. Isn't that what vampires and monsters do? Lull you into letting your guard down so that they could have an easy kill.

"Your father will pay for what he did." She said, hoping to see his true, evil nature. "He must die!"

"I know." Liam slowly released her and took a step back.

Olivia watched in surprise as he sat down before her fireplace and pulled out a silk blue ribbon from his pocket.

He motioned for her to join him.

She slowly lowered herself down, dagger poised in her little fist in case he made a move.

"May I have your hand, please?" He asked.

He patiently waited on her to decide whether or not to give it to him.

She tentatively placed her hand in his.

His lips turned up into a relieved smile as he wrapped the ribbon over their joined hands.

"What are you doing?" She asked, lowering her dagger.

"Making a bond." He explained. "I, Liam Rhys, Crown Prince of the Dark Kingdom, promise to never seek out revenge and to end all vendettas against the Nevarkis family." His blue eyes held her green. "Just as my mother, Queen Eleanor wanted me to."

Oliva's lips parted. "You mean it?"

"I do." Liam's voice held a great deal of sincerity. "I would rather walk into the sun than not do as she asked."

"Oh." Olivia sniffed. She could understand that kind of devotion.

"Do you," Liam's cheeks colored. "Do you think we can be allies?"

"A Nevarkis will never be friends with a monster." She repeated the rhetoric that she knew by heart.

"But," Liam's shoulders slumped. "We're not all bad."

"All monsters are bad at heart."

"I'm not." He pouted. "I don't want to be."

"You're so weird." She muttered.

"Am not." Liam grumbled. "I hope I'm not."

Olivia looked down at their hands still bound together. "I guess since you promised something, I should too."

He didn't bother to hide his surprise.

She stuck her tongue out at him. "I, Olivia Nevarkis, The Crown Princess of Cordonia, swear that after I kill Constantine Rhys, I will lay down my weapons." Her brow furrowed. "I'll pick them back up though if you or any other monster tries anything."

Liam's smile grew. Before she could react, he tugged her into a quick hug.

"Now we can be friends!" He cheered.

"Friends?" She shook her head. "I'm a Nevarkis and you're a Rhys. We can't be friends."

"We will be." He vowed, jumping to his feet. "I have to go before Father finds out I've sneaked out. I'll try to come back in a few nights."

Olivia didn't have a chance to tell him whether or not she wanted him to. In the blink of an eye, he had jumped from her balcony and was already out the palace gates.

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

That had been the beginning of Liam's visits. Through the years, he had remained true to his promise. He did all he could to befriend her and never tried to sway her from seeking vengeance.

Olivia had once asked him how he could take her threat against his father so easily.

He had merely shrugged, explaining that he knew it was the way of things. His father had killed both her parents, while he had only lost one. He hoped she didn't since he did not wish to see his father or her dead.

Olivia had then told him again how weird he was, bringing another smile to his lips.

And now here he was again, calmly taking her promised vengeance well.

"So what business brings you here tonight?" She asked.

"Father thinks it is time I chose a wife." Liam responded. "I thought you should know that I will be spending more time in your kingdom to find one."

Olivia shot up off the bench. "What? But you promised to never hurt a human!"

"And I will keep true to that." He explained.

"But..." Olivia's brow furrowed. "You'll turn her into a vampire."

"Only if she wishes it." Liam explained. "I won't force her to make such a decision."

"I see." She began to pace while thinking. "You'll have vampire children."

"Only if she's a vampire." He reminded her. "Remember my brother."

Olivia paused. She had forgotten about Leo Rhys, The Great Disappointment of the Dark Kingdom. His mother had begged Constantine not to turn her. It had never been asked before, and in his mercy he had agreed. That was when they all discovered that a monster and a human could only produce a human child. In order for the heir to the Dark Kingdom to be a vampire, both parents had to be the same being.

"And you'll be fine having human children?" She asked. "If you're chosen bride refuses the Vampire's Kiss?"

"Of course." He responded.

"Lord, you're so weird." She muttered.

His smirk flashed. "Let's hope the woman I choose doesn't think so."

"Are there no women in your kingdom you can choose from?" She asked.

"I've looked." He shook his head. "It's hard to explain, but if one doesn't have an arranged marriage, then we must search until we see the one meant for us."

"And you somehow got weirder." She brushed her hands down her pants and held one out to him. "Good luck, I suppose."

"Thank you." He grasped her hand and lifted it to his lips. "I'll keep you updated on my progress."

"There's no need."

"Of course there is." He winked at her on his way out. "We're friends."

Her lips parted to once again remind him that they couldn't be. For some reason, she decided not to say it.

Liam had somehow wormed his way into her life and had become the closest friend she had ever had.

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

Worth the Wait (RCD/TRR What If AU)

Amanda grimaced once more over her swollen eyes. Thank goodness she had gone with waterproof eye makeup. At least she only looked swollen instead of a puffy eyed racoon.

Her stomach gurgled when Thomas opened the door.

She hid her face in her hands. "I'm sorry. I've not eaten since I threw up a muffin this morning."

He couldn't help but smile at her embarrassment. "You don't have to worry about what I think when that happens.

When she lifted her head, his eyes narrowed in concern.

"You've been crying." He gently took her face in his hands.

"Hormones." She wondered how she was able to say such a falsehood so easily.

His hands lingered, thumbs brushing her cheeks, then dropped to his sides. "I should forewarn you. Rachel and Stephen are here."

Amanda stepped back, nearly falling backwards off his front stoop.

Thomas caught her in his arms, turning them both until she was safely between him and a wall.

"Are you all right?" He could feel her heart thumping against his chest.

She nodded. "Just caught off guard." Biting her lip, she lifted her eyes to his. "Did you tell them about," she gestured toward her belly.

"I did."

"And?"

"And they are thrilled with the knowledge that they will have a niece or nephew before the year is through.”

Amanda finally asked the question that was really bothering her. “Do they, of course they must, but do they hate me too much for my,” she took a deep breath, “for ending things between us?”

If Thomas was to go with how his sister had not only readily jumped into planning a wedding for them as well as becoming angry over his not proposing to Amanda yet, he seriously doubted she held anything against his ex.

“They don’t hate you at all.” He kept an arm around her waist. “Come inside.”

Leaning a bit closer than necessary to him for comfort, she allowed him to lead her to his living room.

Rachel jumped up and hugged her, pushing her brother out of the way. “I’m so excited!”

Amanda laughed when Stephen thanked her for getting pregnant.

“Now Rach will stop pestering me about getting a puppy or kitten. All her time will be spent in preparation of becoming an aunt.”

“We will get one of those if my niece or nephew wants one.” Rachel snapped at him.

She ignored his teasing grin and focused on Amanda. “How are you feeling?”

“Fine.” She lied.

“She suffers with severe morning sickness.” Thomas corrected.

Rachel’s brow furrowed. “Who is taking care of you?”

“Me.” Amanda said with a laugh that wasn’t quite sincere. “Servants, occasionally my friends, and of course Thomas when we are together.”

Rachel glared at her brother. “She needs help all the time.”

He glared back, knowing she was heavily hinting that they should get married.

“I’ll be fine. Hopefully by my next appointment it will have lessened.” Amanda said, wondering at their sudden irritation.

“And if it doesn’t?” Rachel continued to stare Thomas down.

“Then I’ll do what I have been doing.” Amanda shrugged. “I really don’t have much of a choice in the matter.”

She moved away from them to sit down.

“Some people have a choice.” Rachel muttered where only Thomas could hear.

Ignoring her, he asked Amanda what she felt like eating.

“I’m not sure. This baby and I have very different views on what I should eat." She tried to joke.

He had to stop himself from brushing her hair back from her face. That lopsided grin of hers had a way of making him feel the need to comfort her.

"I was thinking of taking you to The Palm for dinner."

Her surprise made him smile. It used to be one of their favorite places to eat. Thomas hadn't been there since they broke up. For some reason, he had gone ahead and made a reservation for them.

"The Palm?" Rachel leaned forward. "What kind of food do they have."

"Italian." Amanda smiled at him. "I have had a craving for tomatoes recently."

"Then hopefully you'll be able to enjoy a meal for a change."

"We'll go to the guest house and get cleaned up." Rachel tugged Stephen up out of his chair. "What time should we be ready?"

"You have thirty minutes." Thomas warned.

"Thirty?!" Rachel dashed out.

Stephen chuckled. "How long do we really have?"

"Forty-five minutes." Thomas replied. "But I know my sister and if i say forty-five, she'll take an hour or more."

Stephen snorted in amusement. "Yes, she will."

Once they were alone, Thomas sat down across from Amanda.

"The Palm." Her smile dimmed some over the memories of romantic evenings spent at that particular establishment. "I can't remember the last time we had dinner there."

"November." Thomas fought squirming when she looked up in surprise once more.

"I'm looking forward to it." Amanda said to break the uncomfortable silence that had fallen between him.

"So am I." He got up to get something to drink. He offered to get her something just to have something to do.

He could feel her eyes following him out of his living room. When he was out of eyesight he pinched the bridge of his nose. He still didn't know if he could risk his heart again. He knew she was leaving soon and that things between them were up in the air.

And he was wanting to settle once more into how they once were.

But then that would bring up whether or not they should go ahead and marry.

Should we? If it doesn't work out, how much more will it hurt to walk away from her and our child? To break the life I once dreamed of having with her...should I really jump into it without seeing if it's worth the chance?

He didn't know. He knew his fear was keeping him from so much. Yet...hadn't his fear kept him from horrible decisions in the past?

Or had it kept him from something great?

He prepared her a glass of ginger ale and brought it to her.

He grasped on the topic of what she planned to do once back in Cordonia while he debated on what to do.

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

Mixed Signals (Open Heart AU) exert

A few minutes later, Bryce motioned for her to follow him to the cafeteria. It was for the most part empty, save for a couple of doctors grabbing a late lunch.

"You want anything?" He asked.

"No thanks." She sat down at a table while he went to get a snack.

He grinned as he sat down across from her. "Here." He pushed a bag of peanuts toward her. "You should eat something."

Her nose wrinkled. "I haven't really got my appetite back yet."

She noticed the concern in his eyes so like her roommates' and knew she would have to force down some of it just to make it stop.

"So?" She tried not to gag on what once was her favorite go to snack. "How have you been?"

"Shouldn't I be asking you that?" He bit into a burger. "I mean," he said between bites, "of the two of us, you've been the patient."

"Yeah." She slumped some in her seat. "I wasn't too sick to talk on the phone though." Her eyes narrowed somewhat on his. "Or have visitors."

Bryce winced. "Sorry about that, Chris. I guess I didn't know what to say or do?"

"Really?" Her eyes narrowed more.

How often had she stressed to him within the past year that he was important to her, that she wanted to be with him. Then when he wouldn't say he wanted that too and reverted back to calling her a friend, she gave in to trying something with Ethan.

Only for both men to keep her on a yoyo string to pull back and forth whenever they needed her.

What do I see in them to keep swallowing my pride and allowing them to basically use me for sex whenever they want?

Chris was fed up. The longer Bryce stammered about his busy schedule and not wanting to disturb her rest, the more she wanted to chunk the peanuts at his stupid, much too handsome face.

She didn't even want the damn things. Might as well use them as a quick release to her frustration.

Her fingers curled around the bag. Her bicep tightened in preparation to throw them, when Sienna walked up.

Her friend's excited hug and squeals of seeing her at work again were what saved Bryce's overly confident face.

"Why didn't you tell me you were coming back?!" Sienna sat down next to her. "I would have made celebration pancakes this morning!"

Chris couldn't stop from smiling. She could always depend on Sienna's sweetness to boost her mood.

"I didn't really decide until you had left for work. Then Farley came by to check on me and he wasn't feeling too good..."

She continued to tell her about his diagnosis of lime disease.

"Hate to break this up, but I have to get ready for surgery." Bryce smiled at them both. "Take it easy, Valentine. I don't want to have to operate on you next."

Chris bit back a bitter retort that he better hope she needed surgery. It would be his only chance to catch her naked again.

"Meet us at Donahue's later!" Sienna shouted. "We will celebrate Chris being back."

"There's no need." Chris began.

"Yes, there is!" Sienna squeezed another hug out of her. "My best friend is back with us and I'm over the moon about it!"

Bryce smirked at her. "She's right. We have to celebrate our friend's return."

Our friend. Chris despised the word, friend. Why did she keep placing her hope on him seeing her as something more than a mere friend?

And to make things worse, Ethan walked past.

"Dr. Ramsey!" Sienna called out before Chris could stop her. "Come have a drink with us tonight in honor of Chris's return!"

Ethan hesitated. That action nearly earned him peanuts in his much too handsome face too.

Gawd, I hate that look. The sad, yearning eyes. The slight frown. Man up and either say you want to date me or leave me alone for good! This back and forth is killing me worse than the poison did.

"Where at?" Ethan finally asked.

"Donahue's." Sienna beamed when he said he would try and stop by on his way home.

Chris mumbled a goodbye as Bryce left and Ethan headed off to find something to eat.

"Who else should we invite? I know Rafe is still too sick to get out." Sienna tapped her fingers on the table while scrolling through her contacts. "We can invite the rest of the diagnostic team and Ines and--"

"I'll send an invite to Tobias." Chris decided.

"Tobias? Who's...oh!" Sienna's eyes widened. "Dr. Carrick, right?"

"Yeah." Chris sent a text to him before she could think too much about it. "He did rush over with Aurora to try and save my life."

"I thought he was the enemy?" Sienna whispered while her eyes cut to Ethan. "Don't they have bad blood between them?"

"Something like that." Chris grumbled. "They can get over it."

Her phone vibrated with Tobias's response.

You want me to come deep into Edenbrook territory for a drink?

She snorted while answering.

Too scared, huh? And here I was longing for your company.

Well hell, Chris. I've never been able to refuse someone longing for my company. I'll be there. Just make sure no one sticks a scalpel in my back.

Don't worry. I'll protect you.

My hero.

Sienna leaned over, her eyes growing larger with each of their responses.

"Oh my gosh! You like Tobias!"

Chris's smile disappeared. "I don't hate him. But like like him? No."

"You're flirting in your texts!" Sienna giggled. "That is so cute. I haven't see you like this since our first year with--" she clapped a hand over her mouth.

"Uh huh." Chris pushed her chair back. "Anyway, I'll see you after work." She patted her friend's shoulder as she walked away. "Don't worry, I'm not upset with you over the name you almost said."

"Yeah, but." Sienna chased after her. "There is also another person who is interested in you."

"If you mean the one I think, then no. He made it perfectly clear this morning that we can't."

"No!" Sienna wrapped a comforting arm around Chris. "Why not?"

"He's still my boss." Chris mumbled. "And he won't abuse that. No matter how often he gives in to temptation."

"I think he's in love with you." Sienna whispered.

"Not enough to be with me." Chris grumbled.

[lucky4in]

Magic Interferes in New Orleans

Prompts from Piccadilly's book #3

Words used: ☆matriarch ☆throat ☆impossible ☆vinegar ☆apology ☆slice ☆microwave ☆raspberry ☆choose ☆snore

God! I can't take it. The dread is killing me. I'm losing all the blood in my fingers with how tight I'm squeezing the steering wheel. The honking around me is not helping. I can feel everyone's fear collectively as we sit in agitated traffic. Stress. Fault. Jitteriness. Indifference. Panic, panic, panic.

God, I hate being an empath. I can't even hear my own thoughts. I need to breath! Yeah. Take deep breaths. I'm not far from the U-turn lane. So what if traffic is moving 1 millimeter a minute? The storm can't be faster.

Hooooonk!

Beepbeep!

I have to get out of this situation before I have a sensory overload.

From my front and my rear, I'm surrounded by vehicles. I can't move back, I'll hit someone. I can't move up, because they'll think there's space to move and I'll be more stuck than before. Looking to my right I realize the road across the gate is fairly empty. That last car I saw go that way was 40 something minutes ago.

I gulp loosening my grip from the wheel but still holding it firmly in my palms. Taking a breath I turn the wheel and step on the gas. My car races through the grass and crashes though the metal gates. With a screech, my tires are finally rolling and I'm off. Towards the dark clouds like a fool running blindly into a lions den.

When I finally catch sight of the curling palm trees and the flying debris, my weariness is replaced by anger. We had a plan. A simple schedule. Prepare emergency food, water, and medicine, flashlights and documents, locate nearest shelters, fill up gas tank, clear the yard, and turn off the power. When the evacuation order is set, I would be too far away at the time, so my husband would get the kids from home and we...would...evecuate.

Evacuate.

We would meet at the nearest shelter with our separate cars...

Unfortunately, my...sweet...dearest mother decided to take it upon herself to pick up the kids herself...and NOT evacuate. Instead, she wanted her grand babies to feel safe during the storm and cook them a nice meal...at her house.

I almost had a heart attack when my husband said they weren't there. Instead, a note was attached to the fridge reassuring us that my elementary school kids, including a baby, did not infact disappear off the face of the earth. She wants them to feel less threatened and stressed over this "flood nonsense". Make it seem like a regular thunder storm.

Except it's not a thunder storm! It's a hurricane!

I told my husband not to worry about it, I will get the kids and be ok. The hurricane is suppose to be a bad one, the weather man said. Anything left undemolished by the storm by the end of this would be a miracle. Hopefully it won't be my sanity. I swear, she's impossible.

By the time I get to her house, the streets are flowing with water and clawing up her driveway like waves at a beach. I step out and my shoe kerplunks into the water. I groan, feeling my ears eject hot steam. I stomp onto her porch with a squish, squish, squish and jam the key into the lock.

I kick the door open and slam it shut, my anger seeming to accelerate as soon I step inside. I cringe a bit, noticing my youngest asleep on the couch.

"DON'T SLAM MY DO-" my mother sticks her head out through the kitchen doorway and spots me.

"-Oh, hi baby!"

I stretch a tight smile, coaxing my child back to sleep. "Hello, mother."

"You came just in time. I just need to get a few things done before we eat."

And there she is. Like always. Not worrying about a thing while marinating apple cider vinegar on peices of pork. Probably to slice into the-

Sniff, sniff.

-gumbo. Her calm persona was infuriating. Almost insulting.

"Too bad my son in law couldn't be here. He'd love to stuff his face with the beignets" she continues.

"He's at the shelter. Kinda like we're suppose to be" I say, honey tounged and all "which begs the question..." I lean in, my palms face down on the table. "Why aren't we there right now?" I sneer, bringing my voice down.

"Because there's no need to. You know that" she says simply.

"Maybe in your case, but not mine. You just felt entitled to do things your way. Like you always do. I had everything under control and-and you had me worried."

"You know nothing was going to happen to these kids. I knew nothing was really wrong."

"If you really felt so aloof about this, you should have stayed yourself. You can't just up and take my kids like that. We've talked about this."

She finally looks at me, turning away from her task. "I should be free to see my own grand kids whenever I want to."

"I would have probably excepted that, if we weren't in the middle of a god damn hurricane-"

"Momma! Momma look!"

I was interrupted by my two children excitedly telling me that a pie was on the way. All while showing me their hands, proof of a raspberry massacre. Animated. Passion. Triumph. Pleasant. I ruffle their heads with a quick "good job" and they ran off together. Their happiness almost cures my frustration. It does calm me down a bit though.

"Is is so much to want to keep your family safe" my mother asks.

Aaaaaaand its back.

"Is it so much to just listen to me? To just let me do things my way? I am in no less danger than you are just because I dont have the same... tools that you do."

"It looks like it puts you in a lot of danger if you have to evacuate the city. You could simply come here so momma can protect you."

"That makes me look like a normal person, mom. The streets are already flooding and a ton of people just saw me go the opposite direction. I look stupid and suspicious." I'm taken back to my teen years. Having a similar conversation with my mother. "Not everything can be solved with your protection. I can make my own decisions. But instead you undermine me and tamper with everything around you. Just because I dont have it, doesn't mean I cant keep my family safe or simply be a mother. How about, for once, you let mother nature do her job."

"Your father made this house with his bare hands, rehydrating himself with his sweat. No one is touching this house. Not even Cosmo's or Gaia or whatever." She huffs and turn away. A puff of steam emerges over her head, indicating she opened the pot of Gumbo.

"Well, when your the Matriarch, you can start making the rules around here."

Realizing an apology isn't coming, I groan restricting myself from wrapping my hands around her throat. Its silence between us, as there is after every altercation. Especially when the house is mentioned, cause it's always Papa's house. He passed away before I could even learn to speak his name. Mama always told us about Papa. How she met him, how he put her on her feet and built a house for her (it was told he even built the bricks holding this house up), how his devotion to his family and the love of his life lasted until death did them part.

"What makes you think I'm going to be the next Matriarch?" I ask, slipping in the kitchen chair.

"You will. It's a family tradition that you need to uphold. And you are the only girl conceived by me." She answers, this sounds almost rehearsed.

"Why don't the others take your place?" I ask, for the millionth time.

"It's only rare that a boy has ever been in place of a woman. And once a girl was brought in, he was removed immediately."

"If it's that simple then crown them and get it over with."

"Oh, do you think it's that easy"? She quizzes, slowly turning to me.

"Knowing you, probably not."

"Hyde is much more coordinated than that. If they really didn't think you were worthy, we would have known, but I always knew you were special."

Here she goes again. Hyde,, is supposedly the person that gifts the family with magic, life, and girls. It's the spirirt who thrones and dethrones us. No matter who we are. According to mom, the next Matriarch could be good or bad, Hyde has a plan for them in the end.

Along with Papa's stories, Hyde was always directed towards me because I was the only girl, excluding my half sister. Truthfully there was no way to know if Hyde was actually real. I'm not even sure if my parents have seen it. Mom would tell me tales at night of different women throughout our generation, chosen by Hyde and how I would be like them someday.

Perfect.

"Hyde doesn't give you this gift for no reason" mom reassures "they always have a plan. You can't see everything in a negative light. What if Hyde chooses Clio and you-"

I stop her at the mention of my youngest name.

"I'm not putting that responsibility on my kid" I say sternly, though It probably won't matter what I tell her "Especially if, no offense, she ends up like you. Completely dependent on Hyde's gift. IT didn't give me any when I was born, like the rest of you, and I'd like it to stay that way."

Silence once more.

"Perhaps you're afraid-"

"I'm not afraid-"

"-its okay."

"-Of this imaginary ghost."

"Sure, keep believing that. But when it happens~" she sings.

"When it happens to me, pigs will fly" I sneer, memories of that same sing song tone prodding at me.

She says nothing.

"Just let it go mom, it's just not meant to be. I'm not a child that you can hide under your wings when hail comes. However your gifts came to be, Hyde, the house, whatever, it must've skipped a generation."

She continues to stir. She sputters "but-but the family-"

"-The family doesn't know what's best for me and neither do you. I know I'm the only daughter to the Matriarch. I know I wasn't born with any gifts like my siblings. I know refusing my path makes me an ungrateful child and Hyde will handle me" I say reciting what I also heard throughout my life "But that's not my life. And I'm not defenseless."

She freezes. More silence.

"And, I mean, it's not like having voodoo is easy. It consumes you and it messes a lot of things up. This worlds order and the next."

"That's what the council is for" my mom mutters finally.

"Oh, right. The council. The same family who's just as dependent as you. Do you even remeber a time where you haven't used your gift and actually did things yourself?"

...

...

"Don't you ever think of letting go of this life? Doing things for yourself and not the family? Hyde? Papa's house? I notice how this changes you as you age. If this is the answer to our problems I wouldn't mind the sea taking this house away for a while-"

"Mama! Mama!"

"Wow, look."

I follow my kids voices and they seek for me, a glimmer of wonder and awe in there wide pupils. My 2 boys are pointing to the window in the living room. My sleeping child is now up, standing on her toes to see what her brothers are looking at.

As I begin to walk In the living room, they're rushing back to the kitchen. I take a peek and see a part of the lawn, including my rental car but the road and the neighborhood is gone. A large amount of visible debris is covering up the world around-

No.

No.

That's not debris. That's not wind.

I follow my kids. They've opened the screen door and ventured into the back yard. I race after them and stop in my tracks. The water barrier has followed us to the backyard. My kids are screaming and dancing in the sprinklers as the hurricane is trapping us in its second eye. The oceanic barrier is circling around is, refusing to touch the property. With my kids instructions I look up, the sky is dark above us like it's the dead of night, yet inside the barrier, its murky like a cloudy day.

I can't concentrate. Excitment. Curiosity. Shock. Chills.

I sigh as my daughter wobbles to me and I scoop her in my arms. I can see it now, worst hurricane in 6 years and the Crobitt house still stands. This is similar but not related to the instance when a pair of swings at the run down school across the house seemingly froze in the air a few years ago... CIA is currently investigating...

I gather my children inside, they were starting to go towards the rushing ocean and who knows what'll happen. I shut the door with a defeated sigh and sulk at the table. The beneits sit gracefully with their powder sugar and I worship it by stuffing it in my mouth.

"I told you..."

I look up. My mothers eyes are glowing that familiar bright green and she has that devious smirk on her face. She always gave me that look as a child as if she's trying to tell me something. That, or it's to prove something, which I still dont know. I dont think I ever will.

"...you're father built this house. No one is taking it from me..."

...

...

"Now, elbows off the table."

-------

If you like to write or be creative, perhaps you need inspiration, go check out this book! Its the best!

[cynicallystiles]

Seasons of Love: The One with Prom Night

Disclaimer: Moodboard made by me. Pictures found on Google!

Author: @cynicallystiles

Request: @itrocksmysocks​ basically requested this by making me obsessed with the triplets a year ago.

Warning: Swearing maybe.

Notes: The long awaited series is here! The whole thing still isn’t finished ahead of time like I wanted. So, we’ll see if I actually stay on schedule with this one. Credit to @thotmendes​ for imagining the triplets into existence about a year ago! Thanks for your patience! Please COMMENT/REBLOG if you enjoy it!

Pairing: Kallie Hayes (OC) x Mendes Triplets

Masterlist Series Masterlist

Chapter One Chapter Three

Words: ~3.6k

She cheers as she pumps her fist in delight. "Yess!" He chuckles while she jumps to her feet and does a cute little dance. "Can we go now??"

"After dinner." He watches her push out her bottom lip and sit down next to him again. "Kallie," he groans slightly. "Mom's almost done with dinner. It'd be rude to skip," he reminds her.

She sighs, scooting in and laying her head on his shoulder to watch the sunset. "You're right," she concedes. "But, right after?" She tilts her head slightly to look up at him.

"Right after," he promises. She goes back to looking at the multitude of colors in the sky, while he rests his head on hers. He loved being the one that she counted on for comfort. It was something that had started on the night of their prom during their last year in high school.

Raul sat on the couch in his living room the night of their last prom of high school. He swirled the thumbsticks of his controller vigorously to complete a challenge while his brothers were in their rooms getting ready.

Prom was in about two hours and despite their and Kallie's begging, he had decided he wasn't going. He didn't have a date (not for lack of girls asking), and he didn't like dressing up anyway. It wasn't his scene and nothing was gonna change his mind.

Peter and Shawn enter the living room in varying degrees of being dressed for the prom. Raul barely looks at them as he continues with his game. "Are you sure you don't wanna come?" Peter questions.

"It's gonna be our last big thing together before graduating," Shawn reminds him. All he does is roll his eyes with a sigh.

Shaking his head, the only thing that sounds in the living room for a moment is the clicking of his controller and the low level of the game on the television. That is until a pounding sounds on the door. The two boys not preoccupied with the game look toward the front of the house.

"Who's that?" Shawn questions.

Peter just shrugs as he takes a step toward the door. "Your fly is still open," Raul points out without looking. Peter looks down and frantically zips it when they hear the door open and rapid footsteps head toward them.

Kallie appears in the entryway, hair already done professionally by the salon she loves but no makeup covering her ivory features. She's breathing heavily and for a moment, Shawn thinks it's because she sprinted from her house down the street.

But then he sees the light glint off of her wet cheeks and notices her red nose and the puffiness forming around her eyes. He rushes over as she fully enters the room and takes her by her shoulders to look over her.

"What happened?? Are you okay?" His eyes don't see anything physically wrong, which is a relief. But, that still begged the question of why she was in such a state.

She sniffles loudly and opens her mouth to explain. "Eli...he, uh," she tries to get through it but she hiccups and her face scrunches up in sadness. "He texted..." a whimper falls from her lips and she can't even finish.

At this point, Raul has paused his game and is turned on the couch to observe the situation. Peter is standing in stunned silence by the other entrance to the room. Shawn carefully takes the phone clutched tightly in her hand to scroll through the messages from her boyfriend.

His eyebrows furrow together and he clenches his jaw. Make that her ex-boyfriend. Without a word, he pulls her into him and carefully lays his hand on the back of her head as not to mess up the stylist's work. He doesn't even care that he's wearing pants without a belt and his shirt isn't buttoned at all.

"I'm gonna kill him," he promises through clenched teeth. No one hurts his best friend and gets away with it. He feels her shake her head as she pulls away.

"No," she murmurs, the tears finally settling down. "I kind of felt this coming...I just didn't expect him to do it on prom night." She sniffles and wipes her nose with the back of her hand. "I don't know if I can go alone and see him with her..."

Shawn shakes his head. "Of course, not. I'm gonna be your date now," he offers.

"Shawn," she sighs. "I'm not letting you ditch your date to take me." Peter steps forward and opens his mouth. "No. Nuhhuh!" She warns as she looks between the two. "Neither of you are dumping your dates for me. I can suck it up for one night."

Shawn and Peter frown. Neither of them thinks that she should have to go alone. How dare he ruin her months of planning to go with another girl. Their thoughts are interrupted by a serious tone, "No, you won't."

The three of them turn at the same time to see Raul standing up and the television has already been turned off. She sniffles again, brows scrunched in confusion. "What do you mean?"

"I mean," he sighs, walking over to them. Peter silently does the same. "You're not going to prom alone. I'm gonna take you," he declares.

Peter snorts but quickly tries to cover it up and Shawn starts to laugh. Kallie just stares at him incredulously. "Wha-but you hate this stuff," she points out.

"I don't hate you." He arches one eyebrow and looks away as if that explained everything. She gapes at him for a long moment. "What color is your dress?"

Kallie stutters out, "It's, uh...it's lilac purple. Why?"

"Don't worry about it," Raul instructs and shoves his hands into his sweatpants. "Go home, finish getting ready...I'll be over to pick you up in an hour and a half."

Exchanging bewildered glances with Peter and Shawn, Kallie does as she's told and finishes getting ready at her house. She sits on the couch anxiously after finishing up. Not five minutes later, there's a knock at the door.

She quickly answers it to find Raul a couple of steps back with his head down. Hearing the door, he lifts his eyes from Kallie's feet to her face. His eyes twinkle a tiny bit seeing her all dolled up.

Kallie notes how odd it is that his tie and pocket square match her dress so nicely this last minute. He pulls his hand from behind his back to produce a plastic box with a tastefully sized corsage and boutonnière made of actual lilacs.

She raises her eyebrows. The surprises just kept coming apparently. "Shawn and Peter are picking up their dates. They'll meet us there," Raul clues her in and moves to put the corsage on her left wrist.

Fastening his flower on the lapel of his black jacket, she whispers, "I'm not even gonna ask how you pulled this together so quickly." A slight amusement tinges her voice and a smirk pulls at his lips. "But, thank you..."

"Any time," he responds. She looks up from the lapel. Her green eyes pop against the black of her mascara and the light purple shimmer across her lids. His breath catches slightly before he clears his throat and offers his elbow. "Shall we?"

"We shall," she giggles in return.

Raul was the perfect date the whole night. From pulling out her chair for her to refilling their drinks. Despite all the single girls clamoring for his attention (his bad-boy exterior had every girl crushing hard), he stayed glued to Kallie's side.

And when she sat watching Eli, her ex, dance with the girl he left her for, Raul made sure to take her out to the floor to dance. He made a fool of himself with his long limbs and no idea how to use them. But, it brightened her mood and so he didn't care.

He even slow danced with her, making sure that Eli was looking in her direction when he spun her under his arm producing her beautiful giggle. It was magical. After the king and queen were crowned, he leaned down to whisper in her ear, "Wanna get out of here?"

Kallie nods immediately. Despite having spent ages planning and looking forward to this night, she wanted nothing more than to go do something else with Raul. He laces his fingers with hers and leads her out to his car where he holds open her door.

They find themselves at a local park, walking the concrete running path with absurdly large waffle cones clutched in their hands. She had traded her heels for silver sandals she had packed in case her feet started to hurt. His tie was abandoned in the car, leaving his shirt unbuttoned slightly.

The silence between them was comfortable. It always had been since they started hanging out. He wasn't really much of a talker, and with her, he didn't really need to be. She found comfort in the silence that filled the air between them and she liked that he wasn't one for shallow conversations.

After finishing their cones, they wander across the grass to sit side by side on the swing set. She lets the tip of her toes slowly rock her back and forth. Raul grips the chains of the swing, allowing him to lean back into the open air lazily.

Kallie flips a curl out of her eye as she turns in the swing to face him. "Hey," she says softly.

"Yeah?" He leans back up and shifts to look at her.

She smiles to herself and meets his soft hazel eyes that look more brown in the dark. "Thank you...for being my date tonight." He chuckles slightly and rolls his eyes. "No, I'm serious," she laughs. He returns his gaze to hers while she continues. "You didn't have to save me from embarrassment and you did."

"I didn't," he argues casually. Kallie's eyebrows twitch together briefly. "You were never gonna be an embarrassment, Kallie. Date or no date, you were the prettiest girl there."

A furious blush rises to her cheeks. "Thanks." She smiles despite feeling suddenly nervous under his gaze. Her body shivers and she inhales slightly.

"You're cold," Raul realizes and moves quickly to take off his suit jacket.

"No, I'm fine-" she tries to argue but he's already settling his jacket on her shoulders. Kallie watches how his brows knit together while he makes sure the jacket is securely resting around her. Her eyes flit to his hands where they linger as he plays with one of her curls.

When she looks back up at him, the distance between them is less. Raul looks back up from his hand to her eyes with a soft smile. For the first time since she's known him, Kallie notices how innocent he looks. Normally, he's a bad boy. A player. Innocent wasn't in his vocabulary.

But at that moment, she remembers that he has the same face as her other best friends. The same one as Shawn, who cries while watching romantic dramas with her, and the same one as Peter, who doesn't have an insincere bone in his body. And she wonders how she never saw it.

"It's all fake isn't it?" She blurts out.

He tilts his head curiously. "I don't know what-"

"Your reputation," Kallie interrupts. "You're not a player at all..."

Raul chuckles and hangs his head for a moment. He looks back up and all of his aloofness is gone. "You figured me out."

"Sorry, I didn't sooner," she whispers, her gaze flicking to the playful smirk on his lips. He shakes his head slightly, his smile growing.

Licking his lips, he leans closer. Her breathing gets shallow and her eyelids flutter closed. Raul's lips brush against hers sending a shockwave of goosebumps over her. With a slight jitter, he slides his hand to the back of her neck and pushes his lips forward.

It's a soft kiss. He doesn't kiss too fast, or too much. Just his plush lips against hers for a few long moments. Raul doesn't want to pressure her or make her uncomfortable. It was sweet. When he pulls back, he nudges his nose against hers and swipes his thumb along her cheek quickly.

She lets out a tiny, content breath and opens her eyes. Before she can say anything, a buzzing sound startles her. Kallie clutches her chest and giggles while Raul reaches carefully into an inside pocket of his jacket.

"Yeah?" He deadpans when he puts the phone to his ear.

"Yeah? Man, where did you guys go?! You've been gone for like an hour!"

Kallie chuckles when she hears the boys on the other side of the line. He rolls his eyes and responds, "We left. Whole thing was getting lame."

She watches carefully at how easily he puts on the disinterested tone. It really marveled her to watch him play the part. As she tunes back into the conversation, she hears the end of it.

"Yeah, we'll meet you at home. Drop your dates off at home...this is for Musketeers only." With that, he hangs up and looks at Kallie with a wink. "Let's go."

He grabs her hand and stands up to lead her back to the car. When they meet back up with Shawn and Peter, the two automatically act like nothing had happened. But both of them never forgot about it.

It was an innocent kiss. One that was a result of being caught up in the moment. Kallie didn't know why he had kissed her that night, or even why she kissed him back. But, she never brought it up. So, neither did he.

The two of them head back into the house and settle in at the table for dinner. Neither of them notices the slightly curious looks from Shawn and Peter. Or if they do, they ignore them. Dinner is yummy as usual, but a little less energetic than it would have been if not for the sale of the cabin.

Kallie and Peter help Karen clear the table and load the dishwasher before heading back into the living room. Shawn and Raul have already immersed themselves in a video game round and they're equally matched. She clears her throat loudly from behind the couch.

Shawn answers before Raul can, "One sec, Kal. I've almost got him, then we can chill."

"Sure, you do," Raul chuckles as he promptly wins the round and sets the controller on the coffee table in front of them. "I promised her ice cream after dinner," he explains as he stands up.

Peter plops down in his seat and picks up the controller to play with Shawn, but he sets his down as well. "Oh, sweet. Let me get my jacket and we can all get some," he says happily unaware as he heads toward the stairs.

"Actually," Kallie calls after him with an apologetic look, "this is kind of just me and Raul's thing. Like a tradition..." Her voice is soft as she lets him down gently. It was never easy for her to exclude any of the boys from her activities with the others. But, they all had their separate things with her. It was only fair.

Peter sinks lower into the couch, the awkwardness from the exclusion making him uncomfortable. "Right..." Shawn concedes slowly.

It stung a little considering this was the first time she was admitting to having a 'special' thing to do with him. He was okay when it was with Peter because he didn't feel threatened by him anymore. But, with Raul it's different. He's always had the jealousy bug when it comes to him and he could never quite shake it.

Seeing the disappointed look, she crosses the room and pulls him into a hug by his neck. He returns it gratefully while sneaking a glare in Raul's direction. He just rolls his eyes at the envy. "Stop that," she whispers, knowing what he thinks he's getting away with. "I'll text you after he drops me off," she promises.

"Okay." He grins into her shoulder at that comment, knowing that he'll be the last one she sees tonight.

After releasing Shawn, she heads over to the couch and leans down to kiss Peter on the cheek. He returns the gesture softly like he always does. "See you at breakfast," he says quietly with a smile. Peter never seemed to care that she split her time with all three of them. He was just happy that she enjoyed the time they spent together as much as he did.

"Not if I see you first, Picasso," she responds playfully with a wink.

Raul grabs the helmets for his motorcycle and leads her outside. She gives one last tiny wave before closing the door. Shawn immediately sits back down to resume the game with Peter. As the two click away on their controllers, Shawn breaks the silence.

"You have to tell me that you're at least bothered by her getting on that death trap with him," he laments exasperatedly.

Peter shrugs one shoulder. "Yes! Of course, it bothers me," he sighs. "But, I have to trust that even though he's reckless...he would never be reckless with her."

"...you're right. That helps," Shawn breathes out, a little calm washing over him at Peter's wise words. Though he said the words out loud, and also had her promise, there was still a little weight in his chest that wouldn't go away until the next time he sees her.

Later that night, Shawn paces around his room with occasional glances out his window to see if Raul was home. It was just before midnight and they had already been out for hours. There was no way that they had only gone out for ice cream. They had to be doing something else.

The rest of the house is asleep when the sound of Raul's motorcycle cut through Shawn's anxious thoughts. He quickly scrambles to turn off his desk lamp so it doesn't seem like he was waiting up. Though, he peeks through his blinds to watch him walk up the driveway to the porch.

Once he was out of sight, Shawn jumps into bed and pretends to be asleep as he hears Raul try to creep past his door to his own room. He was terrible at being stealthy. Shawn waits for the opening and close of Raul's door before sitting up in bed.

He glances at his phone, counting backward, "Three...two...one..." Like clockwork, Kallie's name flashes across his screen and he grabs it on his way out the door. He didn't need to read it, it always said the same thing.

He creeps downstairs, much better than Raul ever could, and quietly leaves out the front door. He pauses under the roof of the porch to throw his hood up and then takes off at a sprint down the street. Shawn hasn't even broken a sweat by the time he reaches her backyard.

Shawn sends a short text as he looks up at her window and waits. The lamp next to the window turns on and it quietly shifts open. Kallie leans out over the sill to beam down at him. "You're getting slower, Mendes," she teases.

"As if, Hayes," he scoffs. "Send it down," he demands impatiently.

She rolls her eyes and disappears from the window before a rope ladder unfolds down the side of the house. He begins to climb the homemade contraption, quickly but carefully. They had to get innovative after Shawn almost broke the trellis he used to climb and they almost got caught.

After carefully maneuvering through the window, Shawn helps her tuck the ladder back under her bed for now. He kicks off his shoes and takes off his jacket as she closes the window and her blinds before turning back to him. She leans against it coyly with her legs crossed.

Shawn can't help the way his eyes trail up the smooth skin of her legs to her pajama shorts. Kallie notices and raises a brow at him. "Stare much?" She chuckles as she stands and walks toward him.

"Well," he begins, his cheeks slightly red. He meets her in the middle of the room at the foot of her bed. "I can't really help it," he laughs.

She looks up at him, the foot of height difference stretching between them. "Is that right?" She smirks. He shrugs, returning the same look. Slowly, she grabs the hem of her shirt and twists it over her head. Nothing underneath but bare, soft skin.

Shawn chuckles, the sound coming out strangled and weak. He chews on the inside of his cheek as he smiles reluctantly. "That's not fair," he groans out.

"It isn't?" She plays innocent as she closes the space between them. He shakes his head, not hiding the flicker of his gaze to her chest. Kallie stands on her tiptoes as she rests her hands on Shawn's chest to whisper in his ear, "Then, why don't you do something about it?"

His eyes immediately gaze into hers, the lamplight making his usual dark brown eyes seem slightly golden. He grabs her suddenly by the waist, pulling her hips against his. She lets out a surprised gasp as her hands slide to his biceps. "I will," he almost growls.

With that, he leans down and crashes his lips into hers.

[katedrakeohd]

Once Upon a Merry Birthday (continued)

(go back to the beginning)

Amanda refills Drake's snack bowl and then offers him a refill of whiskey, this time he nods. 

"So are you still flying solo, or is your date going to show?"

"I think she's on her way, just had a problem with the dress I bought her."

"Ooh nice, I like a man who isn't afraid of fashion."

Drake chuckles as he lifts his glass to take a sip, "Believe me I had help."

"So how are we playing this? Aloof and mysterious when she shows up? Or totally ignore her til she gets close. What is she going to be wearing?"

Drake turns back toward the bar, "Probably something in between. Her dress is a dark garnet red. She's probably going to show up on the arm of another man, or at least he'll escort her to the door."

Amanda wipes down the bar with a cloth and does a double take when she sees exactly what Drake describes. She mumbles to him as Kate walks into the restaurant from the far side of the room. "Either you're clairvoyant or have eyes in the back of your head, cuz she's here. Who's the guy?"

Drake turns in his seat so he can watch Kate and Preston out of the corner of his eye. She's standing beside him and looking around the room. When she sees Drake sitting at the far end of the bar she gives him a quick appraisal and then moves on. She whispers something to Preston and then lets go of his arm and then walks on without him. Preston waits a few beats and then follows. 

Drake hides behind his whiskey glass, mesmerized, as he watches Kate cross the room. The silky material clung and slithered across her body in all the right places as she walked. The asymmetrical ruffled skirt whispered and fluttered around her slender legs, elongated by the black stilettos that she wore on her feet. 

"Daaaamn," Amanda whispers. "But who's the guy."

Drake looks down the bar at Kate as she stands between two chairs, another patron hiding her from full view. Preston sits down next to her on the other side. "That's our bodyguard."

Amanda takes a moment to assess Preston, "And who guards his body?"

Drake clears his throat to get her attention, "Ahem, ok game on. I want to buy her a glass of red wine."

"Any particular variety?"

Drake feels a stab of jealousy at the way the other guy at the bar gets to be so close to his Kate. "Do you have a wine that matches that dress?"

Amanda smiles, "We certainly do. And for her companion?"

Drake fumed at how casually Preston leaned in close to her and spoke like he was her date. "Get him a Coke. He's on duty."

Amanda grabs a bottle of Merlot and a wine glass on her way over to Kate and Preston. "Good evening, folks."

She pours some wine into the glass and slides it over to Kate, "This is compliments of the gentleman from the other end of the bar."

Kate glances Drake's way, "Then give him my thanks." 

Amanda sets a rocks glass of Coke over ice in front of Preston. "And this is for you."

"So he's buying drinks for both of us? Sweet."  Preston jokes, picking up his Coke and giving Drake a wink. He slides his arm around Kate's waist and gives her hip a squeeze as he pulls her onto his lap. 

Drake glares at him, waiting for Kate to react. This better be for show, or I'm gonna kill him.

Kate pushes him away and then stands up, slapping Preston across the face. He puts his hand up to his cheek and laughs, "Is that all you got? C'mere." 

Preston stands up and lays his arm around her shoulders, pulling her toward him and pressing his face into her hair, "Damn you smell good."

Kate whispers in his ear, "I'm sorry for this Preston." Then she grabs him by the back of the neck and knees him in the groin.

Drake winces and then throws back the last of his whiskey. "I'm going to have to pay him extra for enduring that. Kate has sharp knees."

Preston doubles over in pain and then falls to his knees on the floor. "Holy fuck!" he squeaks out, gasping for air. "I..I wasn't expecting that."

Kate straightens her dress and then picks up her glass of wine like nothing's happened. She swirls it around and brings the glass up to her nose to appreciate the bouquet before taking a sip. Drake walks over and sits down in the seat that Preston was in. 

"I was going to step in, but you seemed to handle that guy pretty well on your own."

Kate glances at him, "Thanks, my Mom insisted I take self-defense classes just in case I ever got into trouble."

Drake looks at Preston, still kneeling on the floor nearby, "Do you want me to dispose of him for you? You have such beautiful hands, I wouldn't want you to sprain something when you drag him out of here."

Kate holds out her hand to admire her new manicure. "Please, I wouldn't want to chip a nail."

Drake gets up from his seat, straightening his jacket, "Save this seat for me? I'll be right back."

Kate smiles and then sits down in the warm spot that he left behind, crossing her legs. "Consider it saved."

Drake reaches a hand down to Preston to help him up from the floor. Grabbing the back of his arm he turns him around and escorts him out of the restaurant, muttering, "I'm sorry, man. But you could have warned me that you were going to do something." 

"Sorry, sir." Preston replies hoarsely, "It was your wife's idea. I was hoping you would get the chance to step in and punch me before she gave me the knee."

Back out in the lobby, Drake winces sympathetically, "Jeez, please tell me you were wearing some extra padding."

Preston sucks in a deep painful breath as he stands up straight again, "Not enough."

Drake pats him on the arm, "Again, I'm so sorry. Now you're definitely off the hook for the rest of the evening."

"Thanks, Your Grace. Watch out for those knees of hers."

Chuckling as he turns back toward the restaurant, Drake says, "I will."

…

Kate turns to watch Drake walk back across the room. He wasn't an overly tall man, but he moved smoothly. It was so sensuous the way his hips rocked with each long, easy stride. From his broad shoulders, slim hips to his long legs he was sex in motion. And the fact that he was staring right at her made her feel hot from the crown of her head to the tips of her toes. 

Drake places his hands on the back of her chair. The heat from his skin radiated across her shoulder blades, and his warm breath smelled of whiskey as he bent down to ask, "Can I have my seat back now?"

Kate shivers as his breath caresses her skin. He turns her chair and then offers her his hand to help her up. "Such a gentleman." 

"Only in public," he murmurs as he bows to kiss her knuckles.

"We haven't been formally introduced. My name is Drake Walker."

"Walker, like the whiskey?," Kate replies.

"No, Drake like the dragon."

Kate pulls her hand back out of his grasp, the warmth of his fingers was like a delicious fire that blazed up her arm. "I'm Kate Darling."

"Darling, such an endearing sort of name. I can't place your accent."

"I'm from New York."

Drake sits down and then gestures to the seat beside him, "Please sit with me Kate."

Kate sits down, sliding her wine glass over to herself. Amanda walks over, smiling at them both but addressing Drake first, "Would you like something else to drink?"

Drake slides Preston's diluted Coke back across the counter, "Can I get a new one of these?"

Amanda nods, pouring it out and drawing new soda from the fountain and a fresh scoop of ice. 

Kate looks Drake up and down, appreciating how nice he looked all in black. "I thought I smelled whiskey on your breath earlier. Not having another?"

Drake shakes his head and sips at his Coke, "I haven't had dinner yet, so I need to pace myself."

Kate swirls the wine around in her glass, biting at her bottom lip. "Have dinner with me."

Drake places his drink down, raising his eyebrows, "Is that an invitation or a request?"

"It's my Birthday and I don't want to eat alone."

Drake nods, "Happy Birthday. I would love to have dinner with you."

Drake signals to Amanda, "The lovely Kate has invited me to have dinner with her, could you bring what's left of that bottle of Merlot to our table?"

"Only if you settle your drink tab first."

Drake leans to the side to pull out his wallet, "Certainly."

He leans over and whispers to Kate, "Go find us a table, and I'll be right over."

Kate nods, leaning in to cup his face in her hands and kiss him softly on the lips. "Don't be long."

Drake groans softly at the desire in her eyes, wondering how much longer this first date sort of thing was going to last. He leans back reluctantly, and turns to hand Amanda his credit card. Kate slides out of her seat and gives him a long lingering look before walking into the diningroom.

Amanda grins at him as she hands his card back, "You two are clearly hot for each other, so why all the polite pleasantries? Get your freak on already."

Drake looks over to the booth in the far corner of the restaurant that Kate was sliding into, "Not yet, we need more foreplay."

::

Part Three

[jsaarts]

Chamber of Secrets might not be most people's favourite, but it is the most quintessentially Harry Potter book in the series

- A Defense

This is reddit post I made which I thought I'd share here based on the positive response it got.

I'll admit that even for me, I don't find it the most interesting in terms of plot. But I do happen to love it more than most of the others.

For a long time I couldn't figure out why. Then I realised that it was because of what that book contains and how the sum of it is like an almost perfect archetype or seed for the whole series.

Chamber of Secrets still has the whimsy and novelty feel of Philosopher's Stone without the Wizarding world being new to us.

It introduces a new location other than Hogwarts just like the other books.

It includes a confrontation with Voldemort, even if in the form of a memory. Something which the third and sixth book lack. Not only that but having Voldemort appear on the back of Quirrel's head was a unique and clever twist and manifestation. By having Voldemort appear as a memory in the diary it does the same.

Chamber of secrets also includes a vision of the past which play an integral role throughout the series. In particular with the Horcruxes in book 6. Not only that but the vision Harry sees in the second book is from a Horcrux.

Chamber of Secrets also sets groundwork for the wider conflict of the series both in terms of the Horcruxes and in regards to blood purity and the founders of Hogwarts.

Harry is also mortally wounded in this book (basilisk venom) but is revived by the living embodiment of resurrection (the Phoenix). Foreshadowing how he will eventually overcome death and the main villain of the series.

In this book we are introduced to the Sword of Gryffindor. Without which Harry couldn't have defeated the basilisk and gone on to destroy Tom Riddle. Likewise without the sword in the seventh book, Neville wouldn't have killed Nagini, thus making it possible for Harry to destroy Voldemort, whom he refers to once again as Tom.

Ginny is also involved in Harry's life for the first time. And though the romance is for now oneside, it isn't later. But she will aslo grow to become more important than just a romantic interest.

Another important character and facet of the wizarding world that we are introduced to is Dobby and house elf slavery.

Chamber of secrets also includes Harry being perceived as suspect and distrusted by others, not to mention the first example of how corrupt and abusive the Ministry is. Along with the first obvious Death Eater, Lucius Malfoy.

Harry's soul-bond to Voldemort is also hinted at, in that he feels like the diary belongs to an old friend, and that they both share the ability of talking to snakes. Not to mention the whole theme about Harry worrying he's in the wrong house. And that ultimately it's our choices that define us. Not our houses and other such things.

Who can also forget poly-juice potion which plays an important role in the series, and is the reason why book four can even happen and Voldemort was able to resurrect.

We are even introduced to the Burrow which will be the home Harry needed and the bonds formed there will be important to the rest of his life.

Despite not having a sorting ceremony, the whole process of sorting and the hat itself are still very much involved in the story.

In terms of a mystery, it incorporates one of the best and most memorable twists in the series. Both in terms of plot and execution (the anagram of I am Lord Voldemort).

Much more could be said, but this book more than any other, carries with it what Harry Potter is all about. Even though Deathly Hallows crowns the whole series as an end to the arcs, certain important elements to the general feel of Harry Potter are missing from it (for example Quidditch and having a normal year at school).

Chamber of Secrets contains in some form or another the main beats of the series, which can at times be more absent from the other books (like a strong element of rivalry with Malfoy which is not really present in the fourth and fifth where he is more a nuisance than a perceived or actual problem, or an important plot point like the second, third or sixth book).

I'm not saying that Chamber of Secrets is the best story or best told, but it's the most quintessential in my opinion.

Edit Note 1: Chamber of Secrets so cleanly follows the formula of the first book, that it's the last of its kind.

The third book has no Voldemort.

The fourth book has no Quidditch

The fifth book ends on a tragic and sombre note

The sixth does not have a confrontation with Voldemort

The seventh diverges the most from the others

I'll admit it's harder to make the case against the fifth book when compared to the second. Since they are closer in formula than the others. But I think a deeper analysis would still hold the main thesis of the second book being more quintessential.

[rogue-barnes-16]

KNIGHT IN SHINING ARMOR

Summary: Natasha Romanoff shows up after two long years to protect the life of the woman she secretly loved for so long.

Pairing: Natasha Romanoff x fem!Reader

Genre: angst-fluff

Tags:

Natasha Romanoff: @5aftermidnight

Permanent taglist: @notexactlythatgirl @thisismysecrethappyplace @sofreakinmanyfandoms @pizzarollpatrol @bubblycypress87 @1a-girl-has-no-name1 @loislp @lovenaturefirst @dyanna-corona @2ptonpt @goodnightmode @disneyprincessbuffyannesummers @mannls @cutie1365 @catch22inareddress @mybooradley @sebastianisasnack @butifulsoul125 @unlikelygalaxygiver

Warnings: injuries, fight, probably typos and language?

A/N: I'm giving you this after a long ass day and night. I felt bad cuz I had no time for requests (there was a big ass fire in my town's forests) so I wrote this in like an hour, hope you enjoy <3.

Rogue-barnes-16 masterlist

I had to do one thing, I had to drop by to pick Vision up in case Wanda didn't agree on staying with him.

I had given Vision a device made with Stark technology that would allow him to send me his location with just pressing a button.

He pressed it, and I dropped as soon as possible, which turned out to be after five minutes.

I was standing on the train station when Wanda and Vision plummeted through the roof and crashed against the floor, and man, was I quick to switch from civilian to Avenger mode.

I was soon standing by their side, checking Vision's injuries and interrogating Wanda about what was happening.

"They’re coming for him." she whispered, distress and fright making her voice tremble.

"what- who?" before Wanda could answer, Vision rushed us to flee the station and the city. "No way I'm leaving. Wanda, go, I'll stay."

Before the sokovian girl could argue, I heard something behind us.

I turned around as fast as possible, and I saw- what the fuck was I seeing? I didn't really know, but they both were huge and I had only my gun and a couple of knives.

I drew out my gun and shot one of them a couple of times. Not so surprisingly, it didn't do much "fuck." the knives it would be, then. "Wanda, get him out of here." I ordered.

"I'm not leaving." she retorted, twisting her fingers to make her powers appear.

We were fucked.

As they stepped forward, a train passed behind the three of us, which caught one of those beings' attention. Following her line of sight, I saw a dark figure standing on the other side, to which that being's trident was thrown.

Seeing Steve Rogers step out of the shadows, holding the same weapon that had been thrown at him was a tremendous relief.

I took advantage of the shock that this caused to our opponents and, now more confident about my survival probabilities, I threw myself at them, using all my skilled movements to attack them.

I put up a good fight with one of them, slicing him with my knives several times, but one single slip-up was enough for him to get the tables turned.

He slammed my head against the ground, and I felt a cold blade against my neck, although I was too dizzy to move or do anything to avoid it from cutting my throat.

In my peripheral view I caught a glimpse of a blond, dark figure, jumping between me and my opponent.

I got up slowly, just in time to watch Natasha digging the trident into the creature's abdomen with such a rage I rarely saw on her.

NATASHA'S P. O. V.

I took an instant while I jogged through the train station to look at Y/n's fierce movements.

After two years, I finally had the chance to see her, and damn my bad luck, it had to be in this kind of situation.

I noticed the mistake on her last turn, and I knew she did too, so I sprinted to reach her, a sudden fear flooding through my body when, in a split second, I wondered if there was any possibility of me seeing the woman I had fallen for four years before die right there.

Steve threw me the trident at the same time as, after grabbing Y/n leg, that thing made her head brutally crash against the cold hard ground.

My breath hitched and I panicked, seeing the gigantic spare gracing Y/n's neck.

Something dark took over me and in a matter of seconds, the trident was buried in that creature.

"Natasha...?" Y/n's quiet, shaky voice, asking for me in disbelief triggered my dark side once more, and, even if the creature was badly hurt, I decided it was not enough.

With a strangled growl, I twisted the weapon inside that monster abdomen, making him cry for help while he fell on his knees.

I kicked the creature down to the floor, extracting the trident from him. "Nat..." this time Y/n's voice was slightly louder, and I turned around to look at her.

The moment I properly saw Y/n, everything in me shut down the danger surrounding me, the fact that it wasn't over, because I could finally see her.

I downed the weapon, my lips parted slightly due to the urge of letting myself pronounce her name. Due to the need of finally telling her what I felt because it had been too long, and the world seemed to go down, this time for good.

The trident slipped away from my grasp, and before I knew it, our other opponent ran towards my now disarmed self.

My first instinct was to get down an cover my head, waiting for the hit that didn't come because of a couple of reasons.

The first one was Steve blocking the weapon.

The second was Y/n pushing me away from the creature's way, and throwing me to the side with her on top of me.

"Hey there stranger." she mumbled, propping herself above me with hooded eyes and a half smile.

"Y/n" I finally said, my eyes starting to get watery but my lips reciprocating the smile.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

After lecturing Wanda, I kneeled before Y/n, now sat against the quinjet's wall with her eyes lost. "let me see your head." I requested.

"alright, Blondie." Y/n obliged with a smug smirk on her face due to her own joke, a smirk that quickly faded when she, wincing, leaned on me, resting her forehead against my shoulder for me to see her crown.

"They did you bad..." I whispered, seeing the fresh blood on the back of her head. "they did you so bad" my fingertips went to the wound, and the moment they tenderly landed over it, Y/n gasped and her hand tried to grip my hip, but she didn't have enough strength to do it.

"they could've me done way worse." she mumbled in a lazy tone, almost as if it was hard for her to speak. "If... my Knight in shining armor hadn't showed up I would... Be... Dead by... By now." she moved slightly to place a subtle kiss on the crook of my neck, which made my heart pound against my chest. "I missed you, Natasha... A lot."

"I missed you too, Y/n." I didn't even notice that sentence made my voice crack, but Y/n did, and both her hands went to my sides, tracing random patterns there with her thumbs. "I'm gonna take care of you, alright?"

She nodded against my shoulder, and I helped her retreat to rest against the wall once more, but her hand refuse to let go of me, even after her eyes closed. "I love you y'know?" her sentence was almost intelligible, but I did understand it.

"You're talking nonsense now." I replied, plainly refusing to believe it was true, because I just felt like I didn't deserve someone as good as Y/n.

"I'm not- just... Just listen for a second" her eyes opened slightly as she tried to avoid to fall asleep. "I mean... I don't know what to say but- wait I know now... I liked the teasing and taunting at the beginning." she sighed, but I stayed there, trying to breath properly while I took in the fact that Y/n knew. "but I don't... I don't like it anymore. You left and I... I lost you and I don't like it any more okay?" a lump formed in my throat as I listened to Y/n's words and realized she was hurting. "I don't like it... So I start, I... I love you."

When she said it again, I remembered that the push and pull, the teasing and taunting, were meant to substitute the love I knew I didn't deserve. "Y/n you're not-"

"Shut... up." she intertwined her fingers with mines. "I'm tired and dizzy, I don't... Wanna argue." she sighed, squeezing my hand. "You're... Amazing and I fell for... You and that's- that's all. Don't... Just don't fight me on this."

The world shut down for the third time that night, and I leaned on Y/n to plant a kiss on her lips, not minding the four people that traveled with us. "I love you too."

"I know." she replied, tugging my hand for me to seat besides her. "I know you do, Nat." she rested her head over my shoulder and started to drift off, our fingers still intertwined.

[cherriready]

I need my girl ~ Tony Stark x Fem!Reader

{This story may contain spoilers about Endgame! AND SCROLL, AND SCROLL BECAUSE I CAN'T USE THE 'KEEP READING' THING SINCE I'M WITH THE PHONE}

Warnings: Death of a main character, Angst, Blood...

A/N: English is not my maternal language, there can be gramatical errors. Sorry about that.

Last chance to keep scrolling, guys!

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Morgan was asleep in Y/N's arms, as the female watched in silence and in the company of Tony, the incredible views from his porch. A fan of colors purple, pink, orange, yellow and blue flooded the sky, there was an incredible and imposing sunset in front of them, hidden behind the trees, just on the other side of the lake shore. The noise of the water, the crickets and the cicadas accompanied the majestic sunset, which transmitted a serenity that made them forget at times the truth that both adults would have to face the next day.

"I don't think you should have done it," the young woman broke the silence as she watched the girl, she hugging between her arms, trying to find a more comfortable posture. "I don't see it necessary."

"What are you talking about?" asked Stark as he looked at the woman with a confused expression.

"I'm talking about the video you recorded an hour and a half ago. I've seen you do it," Y/N spoke as she stroked little Morgan's hair and looked at Tony with a sad expression.

He lowered his head as he looked down at the floor and sighed. "I just want to leave something behind, something ready, in case something happens to me."

"No," said Y/N with a frown. "I refuse to let you come up with the conclusion that you need to leave something recorded in case something happens to you, Tony. It's not necessary, because nothing is going to happen to you tomorrow," she said as she raised her voice slightly, causing to the little girl to let go a little whimper. "Sorry, darling," she apologized to the kid.

"You don't know that," whispered Tony as he closed his eyes and enjoyed the gentle breeze caressing his face.

"Tony... You must think about her, about both of them, before doing anything. I know that our mission is to bring back all the vanished, but...  Your real responsibility and concern is this!" Y/N pointed out as he looked at Morgan, letting Tony understand her message, what she really meant.

"I know, Y/N. But still-"

"For once, don't be the fucking hero. Leave that role to someone else, damn it..." whispered the woman with a frown, as she rocked the girl carefully. "For once in your life, I'm begging you, don't be the one who has to do everything!"

"You don't say all this just because you've seen me make the video before, do you?" asked the genius Stark as he pulled away the hair that fell on his daughter's face and put it behind her ear.

"No. You see, I've had these strange dreams again... Like the ones I told you about before the Sokovia agreements and the... You know, before everything that happened five years ago," said the woman with E/C eyes, as she bit her lip, trying to hold back the urge to cry.

"You have premonitory dreams again," said the brunette man looking at his friend with concern.  He placed one of his hands on Y/N's shoulder to try to comfort her, but it was in vain as she began to cry in silence.

The youngest Stark seemed to notice how the woman holding her in a hug must have been feeling, so she unconsciously grabbed her with more strength, still asleep, as if she was trying to calm her, to comfort her, and make her understand that everything was fine. That she was there, and that everything would be fine.

"Aw, Morgan," whispered the c/h haired woman in tears, noticing how the little one was trying to comfort her. "Thank you, little miss Stark..." she said before posing a kiss on the crown of the toddler, so that she could rest her chin on the little head.

"Hey, guys," Pepper whispered as she approached the couple of friends who shared an intimate moment. "I've come for Morgan, it's time to put her to bed. It's a bit too late," said Tony's wife, as she crouched next to Y/N and held her daughter in her arms. "Thank you for being with her today.  We missed you so much," the redhead said with a small smile.

"It's the least I can do for my goddaughter. After all, I missed her too. All of you." said the young avenger before caressing the girl's cheek as a sign of farewell good night.

Tony got up from the stairs on the porch so that he could give his daughter a proper kiss and send her off to bed. "Night night, Maguna. I love you tons, baby girl." he whispered softly in the girl's ear, before posing a long kiss on her forehead.

"I do it 3000, papa," said groggy the little one, as she rested her head on her mother's shoulder, looking for comfort and warmth in her.

"I'm going to sleep now, too," Pepper said, trying to disguise his desire to yawn.

"Alright. Good night, Peps." said goodbye Tony before giving his tired wife a short kiss on the lips. "Sleep well."

"Good night, Pepper" Y/N said goodbye to her friend with a small smile and a small hug, after getting up from where she had been sitting.

"See you tomorrow," the woman said goodbye before getting inside the house, this time with her daughter in her arms.

"I love you," exclaimed the Stark before he lost sight of the lady of the house.

"Tony." Y/L/N called his friend, thus gaining his attention. "This is something you can't miss for anything in the world. I wouldn't forgive you," she earnestly pointed out.

"How long have you been dreaming of my death?" asked the man as he folded his arms and watched his friend, while waiting for a sincere answer.

"Since we started looking for a solution to this fucking disaster."

"That's... plenty of time."

"I know, that's why I'm asking you to play your part in the background tomorrow. I can't afford to lose anyone else, you know? I can't afford to let anyone else die. It wouldn't be fair to anyone else."

"It would be great not to die," Tony said.

"That's why you're going to promise me you won't, okay?" She asked him.

"Y/N, you know I-"

"Alright!?" Y/N insisted, raising her voice slightly. "Tony?" she called her friend's attention as she folded her arms and stared at him.

The Iron-man sighed and looked at her attentively before nodding Slowly. "I'll do what I can."

"That's not good enough for me, Stark. You have to swear, give me your word or I'll kill you," threatened Y/N to Tony as she pointed a finger at him.

"You realize that doesn't make any sense, right?  That's-"

"Anthony..."

"God, how stubborn you are, Y/N. Okay! I swear, I won't die tomorrow," said the man as he raised his hands as signal of surrender.

"Sounds like a plan to me!" smiled the avenger and then hugged Tony tightly.

Tony hugged her for a long time. He well knew that this might be the last time they could be like this, since the next day anything could happen, to any of them. Any scenario could develop, and that terrified him in an unimaginable way. Losing his family and friends was a blow that he would never know how to fit in, and so he preferred not to even think about it.

"I think it's time for me to go home. It's late and I had promised Nat that we would-"

"Y/N." said Tony as he held his friend's face between his hands and made her look into his eyes. "You know perfectly well that I love you very much, don't you?"

She nodded and smiled warmly. "I know perfectly well, Tony," she replied, causing Tony to pose a kiss on her forehead, then hug her again. "I love you too, Stark." whispered Y/N to him before she broke the hug.

"Goodbye, kiddo," said Tony goodbye as his friend headed to her car.

Y/N raised her hand as a bye sign and smiled at him broadly, with a little laugh. "See you, my dude." She wavered at him as she got into her car.

"Hey, Y/L/N!" Stark exclaimed as he watched the woman start the vehicle. "No surprises tomorrow!"

"Take your own advice, you old wreck. And remember you made me a promise!"

***

"I am... Inevitable." Thanos said arrogantly, before snapping his fingers, which didn't work, because the gauntlet didn't have a any of the infinity stones.

The mad titan looked with an open mouth and incredulous look at the gauntlet and then at the young woman in front of him. He saw how the power of the stones invaded the body of the female human and how her body react at such magnitude of power. Y/N was in pain. And because of that, she shouted and complained, until her body ended up adapting to all the stones.

But it wouldn't last long.

Oopsie

Y/N looked defiantly at Thanos, who had remained static looking at her, knowing what was coming next for him and that it was inevitable. "Yeah, well, and... we are... the Avengers!" snapped the young woman without hesitation.

A white flash flooded the place for a few moments, followed by it, all the allies of Thanos and himself, began to turn to dust in the battlefield, as 5 years ago millions of beings from all over the universe had done it before.

Karma is a bitch, huh?

"I just fried myself, well done Y/L/N..." commented Y/N to herself, trying to make her situation less serious, as the right half of her own body was totally burned and a huge wound in the area of her femoral artery from where emanated lots of blood.

"Y/N/N..." called a soft voice, which addressed to her. "What ha-... What have you done?"

Y/N finished sitting and leaning on a pile of rubble, looked up and saw Tony, Rhodey, Peter, Pepper, Steve and Thor approaching her. Some of them ducked on to stay at her height and others stood watching everything.

She smiled weakly and looked at his dearest friend. "I've made them to bite the... dust, you get it?" the woman laughed briefly, before grabbing her side because the pain she felt. "Goddammit..." she complained.

"Don't worry, we'll still take you to a place where you can be cured and-" Captain America tried to talk, as he approached his friend and tried to hold her in his arms.

"No, no... Steve, no. It's okay, there's nothing that can be done for me." she whispered as she took the captain's hand and stroked it. "Let it be, please..." she whispered and then gave Tony a warm look. "This is how it had to happen, you know..."

"No, Y/N, please..." begged Stark as he stroked her good friend's cheek, who was beginning to have trouble breathing. "Friday, tell me her situation." he asked to the A.I.

"Her vital signs are compromised, sir." answered Friday.

Everyone began to cry in silence. Tony sobbed a little before leaning his head against Y/N's head as he stroked her cheek. She smiled weakly and gently wiped away his tears.

"Your girls need you, Tony. Morgan has both parents. I can't ask for anything better..." she whispered as she looked at Pepper, who was crying in Rhodey's arms and dedicated one of her last smiles to them.

"But, I-I..." Tony whispered between loud sobs as big tears were falling down his cheeks. "Y/N..."

Y/N placed her hand on her friend's chest, over the light of his Ractor Arc, and then gave him one last, small but warm smile. Tony held Y/N's hand on his chest and watched her life flee by moments.

Indeed, nothing could be done for her, it was late.

"N-No, Y/N" Peter begged as he got on his knees and embraced the corpse of his friend. "Don't go, stay. Stay, stay, stay, stay, stay. Stay with us. Don't die. Stay... with us." he sobbed so hard, that Thor started to cry even harder.

"You were... No, you are also my girl. I need you in my life." whispered Tony in his dearest friend's ear, even when he knew that she couldn't hear him. "God, I need my girl." pronounced before closing Y/N's eyes for ever.

Silence and sobs ruled the place once again.

And that's how it all ended.

[punkscowardschampions]

Buster & Rio

Buster: I was about to ask my parents if you could stay and it turns out Nance already has Buster: You could've told me I wasn't your fave any more Rio: 😂 Rio: You're still my fave, I'm just the fave of everyone, I can't help it Buster: [a pouty face selfie] Rio: You can't just ambush me like that Rio: you're too cute, its dangerous Buster: Well you're mine so you can't be anyone else's Rio: You can say that again though Rio: please Buster: You're all mine Buster: And not only 'cause you've got such good manners but I'm not mad about it Rio: Well please tell me they said I could come Buster: Nance scraped a C on some essay which is like a Dyslexic A, I guess, so Buster: They couldn't really say no Rio: Yay! Rio: She's really come through Rio: my dad should be home in an hour or so, I'll ask then Buster: I would've Buster: You know I've been on my best behaviour, babe Rio: I know Rio: trust me, it'll be way more fun for me to praise you than your parents though Buster: You can't just ambush me like that Buster: You're too fucking hot, its dangerous Rio: I know Rio: you still have to work out when we can be alone Buster: Remember when we were younger and she could never stay up as late as me, that's still true Buster: Never gets up as early either Buster: Or comes to see me fight, so she has no idea how long that lasts Rio: This is why I like you best Rio: never enough time but definitely better than we have had Buster: I'll make more, those are just the most obvious Rio: I can't wait to see you again Rio: like actually, I'm sick of not being with you Buster: I feel that too Buster: You'll have to get some new habits we can make the most of for the weekend, like taking really, really long baths Rio: That sounds pretty fucking good anyway Rio: I'm fine with being that bitch Buster: And it's not your fault that her en-suite doesn't have a tub in it Rio: 🤷 Rio: needs must Buster: You're an animal person too, right? So you have an idea how much exercise this dog needs Buster: And how easy my sister is to distract on a walk as long as she's got her 📷 Rio: True Rio: you really are helpful, like Rio: 🤴 Buster: I've had loads of time to think about how helpful I could and wanna be to you Buster: Like you said, needs must Rio: I know what you mean Rio: I just can't believe its actually gonna happen outside of my head Buster: You'll believe it, baby Buster: You won't be able to deny it Rio: Good Rio: That's all I want Rio: for it to be real Buster: I know, me too Buster: But nothing's ever been more real than how I feel about you Rio: I'm so Rio: how do you exist and how are you so perfect for me Buster: The first one is a question for my parents that I ain't asking 'em Buster: We're perfect for each other though Rio: Fair 😏 Buster: How are you then? Buster: Other than perfect and missing me Rio: Ugh, bored Rio: been on my best behaviour too to increase the chance of a yes Rio: school is really boring when you just do the work, like Rio: how about you? Buster: Same Buster: I haven't been out or fuck all 'cause I thought I was gonna be the one to put the idea to my parents Buster: Cheers Nance Rio: Baby 😞 Rio: We can go out Buster: You're worth it and I wouldn't wanna be on their shit list while you're here Buster: This way we can go anywhere and do anything you want Rio: It will be worth it Rio: every second Buster: I know Rio: I convinced Edie to do the boxing with me Rio: she liked it Rio: maybe one time I can bring her to see you Rio: after I've had some time just for me, selfish like that Buster: I'll teach her some more shit when I'm next back Buster: If she wants Rio: I think she would Rio: you might get a queue though Rio: Indie and Janis then has to have a go, like Buster: They should all know how to protect themselves anyway Buster: Nance won't let me show her Buster: Some man hater she actually is, like Rio: She's very Rio: a pacifist, I think we'll call it Buster: You can call her a pussy, I won't tell her Buster: I'll teach you again too, so you're safe when I'm not there Rio: I'll stick with my word, like Rio: You don't need to worry about me Rio: I can look after myself Buster: Let me show you and I won't need to worry about you 'cause you'll be able to look after yourself even better Rio: You can just say you wanna pin me, its fine 😏 Buster: I could but I reckon it goes without saying Rio: Oh but I like hearing it Buster: Oh, in that case Buster: [voice memo time] Rio: oh Rio: well, fuck Buster: Bored ain't the word now, is it, babe? Rio: I can't think of any words Buster: Let me help you Buster: [another voice memo cos he's extra] Rio: Buster Rio: you're making me Buster: Rio Buster: I wanna make you Rio: What are you gonna do when you first see me again? Buster: Everything we didn't have time for Buster: And everything we did Buster: But slower Rio: You're trying to kill me, I swear Buster: That wouldn't be very 🤴 of me Rio: I think you're something different than a prince Rio: better than but definitely no prince I've ever seen Buster: Tell me Buster: I wanna hear what you think Rio: A king Rio: maybe Rio: that's better than a prince Buster: You just wanna be a queen and get a crown instead of a tiara Buster: Okay, you've got it Rio: Don't I deserve it? Rio: besides, princes are only good for slaying dragons and evil stepmums and I don't want you for that Rio: I wanna rule with you Buster: 'Course you do Buster: But you can have more than just a castle, you know Rio: Yeah? Buster: There ain't no limits for us Rio: two castles Rio: and a penthouse Rio: and a mansion Buster: And every car you said you wanted when we played that game, yeah? Rio: Exactly Rio: Do you still wanna be a footballer? Buster: I wasn't scouted Buster: They pick kids up well young now, like Rio: I won't have to fight any WAGs at least Rio: and you're gonna be the best defense lawyer ever Buster: Shame, there's a fight I wanna watch Rio: 🙄 oi Buster: Come on, don't you wanna let 'em know that I'm yours Rio: There are other ways Buster: I'm not saying you can't do those as well Rio: I bet so many girls at your school fancy you Buster: Yeah they do Rio: but you like me best Buster: I only like you Rio: Good Rio: I've only ever liked you Buster: What about your ex? You said you liked him Rio: Not the same Rio: nothing close Buster: Good Rio: You knew that Rio: I can't like anyone else whilst I still like you Buster: I wanted to hear it again though Buster: 'Cause I really miss you Rio: Well my da just came in so give me five to convince him and I'll basically be on my way Buster: Okay Rio: [time lbr he's a pushover especially for her so not long lol] Rio: 😁😁😁 Buster: Thank fuck Buster: If he'd said no I'd be getting on a plane instead and that ain't best behaviour Rio: I was pretty sure he would, but your parents had called ahead so didn't even need to worry Buster: 'Course they would've Buster: I didn't even think about that Rio: I owe Nancy harder than she can know, like Buster: As much as that winds me up Rio: You're clearly gonna get the IOUs, and without having to put in as much work Rio: think of it that way Buster: I know, but I can't help also thinking if she wasn't around it could just be me and you Rio: Yeah Rio: but there's no way we can swing that Rio: not yet anyway Rio: when we're older I can get a hotel or something instead Buster: Yeah Buster: And it'll be easy to sneak off when we come back to Dublin, fam functions are always a free for all anyway and St Paddy's is the messiest by far Rio: Seriously Rio: we can do anything Rio: be loud as we want too Buster: What a fucking relief Buster: I'm sick of holding back so nobody hears us Rio: its so rude Rio: I've been waiting to hear you for so long Rio: I should be able to whenever I want Buster: Rio Rio: Yes? Buster: I'm so glad that your parents got married and mine made me go Rio: Me too Rio: I already feel like we wasted loads of time but it could've been so much longer Rio: or never Buster: The night before when I was at that party I was convinced it was gonna be never Rio: We'd silently agreed that it was Rio: I guess Buster: The thought of seeing you was such a headfuck Buster: Now it's all I want Rio: Are we insane Buster: Maybe Buster: But I don't care, as long as we both are Rio: Me either Rio: we can do this, can't we Rio: it doesn't need to be the drama we were scared it would be Buster: You know we can do anything Buster: It'll only be a drama if other people find out, which they won't Rio: Exactly, not amateurs Buster: Never have been Buster: Well, except when I headbutted you in the face Buster: That was pretty amateurish of me, like Rio: You were so adorable Buster: Shut up Rio: You were though Rio: it was really hard not to kiss you but you wouldn't let me Buster: I hurt you, it scared me Rio: Baby Rio: you're so pure Buster: No I'm not Buster: You are Rio: Its a good thing Buster: I'm surrounded by cunts, remember Rio: I know Rio: I know you have to be different Rio: but not when you're just with me Buster: They'll never change us Buster: Nothing will Rio: It can't Rio: like you said, we both tried Buster: Exactly, if I can't do it, they've got no chance Rio: Facts Rio: Also no lie how hot you are Buster: Good Buster: Don't lie to me Buster: No matter what Rio: I won't Rio: you don't to me Rio: whatever, I can handle it, alright Buster: I know you can Buster: And I know that we can't tell anyone but can I at least tell the girls at school that I'm not single so they fuck off? Rio: You want to? Buster: It's fine if you don't want me to, it's just that loads of 'em message me all the time Rio: It's cool with me, if you want to do it Rio: I mean, really cool Buster: You're so cute, stop it Rio: I was thinking we'd have to have that conversation Rio: and I didn't think it'd go that way Buster: How did you think it'd go? Rio: That we'd agree to see other people too and I'd just have to not think about it ever Buster: Baby, no Rio: This is why you're the best Rio: because I really don't wanna do that Buster: I'm not sharing you with anyone, end of Rio: I don't wanna be shared Rio: I wanna be yours Buster: You are mine Buster: So why would I kiss any more girls pretending they're you? Buster: I'm not stupid Rio: You're everything I need Rio: This weekend is going to be everything you've ever imagined Buster: Yeah I am and it will Buster: I don't need or want anyone else to touch me ever again Rio: I'm never going to get tired of touching you Rio: hearing you, tasting you, none of it Buster: Don't Rio: How could I Rio: I'm not stupid Buster: I love you Rio: I love you too Rio: its so Rio: to finally say it Buster: I wanted to say it in person first but I really fucking love you Buster: Waiting to say it seems stupid Buster: Like you said, we've wasted loads of time already Rio: Well I might be crying so that's probably for the best Rio: slightly less embarrassing Buster: I told you not to when I'm not there to wipe your tears away Rio: Only happy tears Rio: promise Buster: But still Rio: Okay, no more tears, I'm fine, this is all so casual Buster: I'll distract you Buster: Pick a game Rio: play MASH with me again Rio: I want a better future Buster: You're gonna be every one of my crushes though Rio: Of course Buster: And I'm gonna give you the best future no matter what it says Rio: Tell me about it Rio: we don't need a game Buster: What do you wanna know? Rio: What our futures gonna look like Buster: Well, we'll live there obviously 'cause it's always been home but we'll have loads of other houses anywhere else we want Buster: Like America when I go study at Havard Buster: Or in Brazil for when you miss it Rio: you'll love Brazil Rio: its like a party all the time Buster: I hate that we can't go in the summer, it's shit not being old enough to go places like that on our own Rio: I know, always have to go everywhere with everyone else Rio: we'd have so much more fun just us Buster: When we're older, all you have to do is name a place and I'll take you there Rio: I wanna go everywhere with you Rio: its shit being anywhere you're not Buster: In the future you won't have to go anywhere without me Rio: Sounds like heaven Buster: You're like heaven, 'cause if there is one it'd be a place where I feel like this, right? Buster: Where I never have trouble sleeping or get angry about stupid shit and I get to kiss you as much as I want Rio: I want you to feel like that all the time, you know Rio: you should, you deserve it Buster: You make me feel better than I thought it was possible to Buster: Being with you has been like, not a dream 'cause mine are shit, but a worthwhile reality or whatever Rio: I feel it too Rio: you make me feel safe, and not just because you taught me how to fight Rio: and seen, but not how everyone else sees me Buster: You are safe, I meant it when I said I'd do anything for you Buster: And yeah, I know you, the same way you know me Rio: I believe you, I knew that even when we weren't talking Buster: Nothing and nobody's gonna make you feel shit 'cause they'd have to go through me to try it Buster: That's always gonna be true even if one day you don't love me any more Rio: That day won't come Buster: Good Rio: I've always loved you Buster: I've always loved you too Rio: I'm scared I'll wake up and none of this has happened Buster: If that ever happened all you'd have to do is wake me up as well and let me prove to you how real it is Rio: Okay Rio: I might ask for some proof, even if I don't actually need it, 'cos that sounds 🤤 Buster: You can have whatever you ask for Buster: And loads of shit you don't that I'm just in the mood for Buster: Or I know that you'd like too Rio: I want what you want Rio: that's what I like, making you happy Buster: See, you're the one that's pure Rio: Depends what you want Buster: I want you Rio: I'm yours forever Buster: You're in every fantasy I ever had, you know Buster: My imagination is full of you Rio: It doesn't have to be just imagination now Buster: Until you're here though Buster: But I've waited way longer before Rio: Counting down the hours pretty much Buster: If you hadn't told me to get something that reminds me of you it'd be so much harder Buster: I'll have to give you something you can take back Rio: What did you get? Buster: Didn't I tell you? Buster: I found the perfume you were wearing to the party Rio: How did you even remember Rio: that's so Buster: How could I forget? Rio: I love you Rio: and I'm so glad its you, you know Rio: if I loved anyone else I'd be disappointed Buster: I'll never disappoint you and I know you couldn't do it to me either Buster: I love you so much, Rio Rio: I won't Rio: I'll be perfect, trust me Buster: You are and I do Rio: You ain't seen nothing yet, like Rio: don't know just how 😇 I can be Buster: Well, I don't like not knowing things Buster: You better show me Rio: When I'm there Rio: patience is a virtue and all Buster: We've both been patient enough Rio: You think we'll both still get in? 🙏 Buster: I told you, I'm already there Rio: Me too Rio: How do you do that? Rio: Make me feel this good without even being here Rio: That's some godlike power, never mind being a king, THE king Rio: fuck Buster: Jesus Buster: I thought we couldn't have more fun than when I make it difficult for you to talk but if you're gonna keep saying shit like that, I'm gonna change my mind Rio: Both Rio: we can definitely do both Buster: I'm not letting you leave London until we do Rio: I'm in no rush to leave Buster: I couldn't be in more of a rush to get you here though Rio: Seriously Rio: what should I bring Buster: Obviously your highest heels Rio: Of course Rio: not that you need the excuse now Buster: Depends where we are Buster: I'll take any excuse if I have to, like Rio: That's true Rio: and who with, obviously Rio: I won't wear them on the plane, they probably count as a deadly weapon Buster: I'll still carry your bags and you Rio: Maybe wait 'til your parents aren't there though Rio: at least with me Buster: They're always on at me to have better manners Buster: But fine Rio: 😏 Rio: You can see how well it goes over but might ruin all your hard 😇 work Buster: Like I said, you're worth it Rio: 😊 Buster: And we've got our own heaven whenever we want it, so there's no need for me to worry about what happens if they wanna kill me Rio: 'cept you did promise you wouldn't die Buster: Babe, come on, they can try, it don't mean they'll succeed Buster: You know me better than that Rio: Yeah, I do Rio: its just gonna be hard to not immediately kiss you, that's all Buster: So we'll find a way Rio: Yeah? Buster: There has to be one Buster: If nothing else give 'em the wrong gate and give me the one you're actually coming in at Rio: 😂 Rio: I don't think they're falling for that Rio: like you said, we've waited longer Buster: That's the last resort, I'll think of something that'll work better Rio: I have all the faith in you, like Rio: also have too many clothes for a weekend Rio: hmm Buster: Shame I can't say you won't be needing 'em Buster: Not until we have our own place anyway Rio: then clothing is pretty much not allowed unless you look really, really good in it Rio: 'cos then I need to take it off you myself, obviously Buster: You look as good in everything you wear as you do out of it, so I'm honestly fine with that rule Buster: But for now, leave space in your suitcase for everything of mine I'm gonna give you Buster: And everything I'm gonna buy you Rio: 😍😍😍 Rio: I'm hearing check a bag instead of doing carry-on Rio: I want your comfiest clothes but they gotta smell like you a lot so put 'em on now, like Buster: Check a bag so I can get in it and come home with you Buster: [selfie of him wearing that loungewear that you know is pricey af and looks so good on him cos that bitch] Buster: If I'm not careful they're gonna all smell like you too 'cause I made sure to spray my sheets Rio: damn Rio: we're gonna end up smelling like each other Rio: it'll be a good combo Rio: not mad about it at all Buster: Me either Rio: how do you do that Buster: You're gonna have to be more specific Rio: look like that Rio: all the time Buster: I could ask you the same question, you know Rio: How could I not fancy you, like Rio: who can blame me, yeah Buster: Don't ever stop, okay? Rio: I promise Rio: Its literally impossible so I ain't worried Rio: you don't need to be either Buster: Good Buster: I'll focus on how much I miss you instead Rio: I'm okay with that Rio: there's plenty I can do about that before I've even stepped foot on the plane Buster: This is why you're my fave Rio: I better be Buster: Who else could even come close? Rio: No one Rio: don't go find out for yourself yet, okay Buster: All I'd find out is how right you are about that and I already know that Buster: I don't waste my own time and I definitely won't waste yours on any of that kind of bullshit Rio: I can't keep telling you how amazing you are but like Rio: I also can't not if you keep upping it Buster: You can tell me anything Buster: The fact is, I need you, just you, end of Buster: I'm not just saying it as a compliment, like Rio: I feel it too Buster: This weekend I'm gonna make sure you do feel it Rio: please Buster: Everything you do and say gets to me Buster: But that especially Buster: You're gonna have to leave all your manners in Dublin or I'm not gonna be able to pick you up from the airport Rio: but Rio: okay Rio: do it Rio: how's that Buster: Oh fuck Buster: Well that's not any better, just different Rio: You'll have to make it so I can't say anything then, like you said Buster: Yeah Rio: 🤐 Buster: [sends her some more pics to try and test it like we're all gonna die if we don't figure it out] Rio: 😩😠 Buster: [a voice memo like gotta up the stakes here, do you though boy or are you just being rude] Rio: you aren't playing fair Rio: or nice Buster: None of my fam will from the moment you arrive Buster: They'll just get in the way of us Buster: But if you need me to call a truce for right now, tell me Rio: No, you're right Rio: I can handle it Buster: I love you Buster: We can handle it Buster: Together Rio: We always have Rio: we can do this, I know it Buster: Exactly Buster: It'll be easy compared to some of the other shit we've done Buster: And even if it ain't, fuck all's harder than pretending I didn't care and I did that for ages Rio: I'm sorry Rio: that you had to do that Rio: that you do Buster: Don't Buster: It's not your fault and you never told me to do it Rio: I'm still sorry about it Rio: I wanna be good to you, even if we have to hide it Buster: I know and you are Buster: You were even when I wouldn't let you be Rio: do you wish it was someone else Rio: so it'd be easier Buster: No Buster: Fuck easy, who am I, like Buster: Shit's not worth having unless you fight for it Buster: And I'm ready to do that for you now Rio: I love you

[mind-reader1]

Queen of Hearts (Ch. 27)

Drake x MC (Emma Barnes)

TRR AU: What would happen if Emma loved Drake but had to marry Liam?

Catch up here

Warnings: violence

Note: WE’RE FINALLY GETTING TO THE GOOD STUFF. So I wrote out Emma’s death, for real this time, then I realized I couldn’t do any of the other stuff I had planned for the story so she got a reprieve this time. 

Word Count: 2,429

Summary: Olivia, Drake and Emma have been captured, will Liam come to save them or will he take a different route? 

Chapter 27: The Emperor’s New Clothes - Panic at the Disco!

I'm taking back the crown I'm all dressed up and naked I see what's mine and take it (Finders keepers, losers weepers) Oh yeah The crown So close I can taste it I see what's mine and take it (Finders keepers, losers weepers) Oh yeah

Sycophants on velvet sofas Lavish mansions, vintage wine I am so much more than royal Snatch your chain and mace your eyes If it feels good, tastes good It must be mine Heroes always get remembered But you know legends never die

Emma didn't know how much time had passed, but as the bag was lifted off her head, she took in her surroundings. She was in an old dungeon, Drake and Olivia tied up on either side of her, Anton standing over them with a smirk on his face.

“Emma. Lovely to see you again.”

“I swear if he hurt you Walker!”

“I'm okay Drake.” Her hands were tied behind her, her legs also tied to a chair, she pulled against them to no avail. She could feel the panic bubbling up in her chest, she was taken back to that night in the vault, the vision of Drake at her funeral, there was no one coming to get her now.

“What a nice little reunion. Me, my former client, her lover? Husband? Whatever you are, and my fiery wife.” Olivia spit at him from her chair.

“Call me your wife again and I'll show you what a real ball and chain feels like. I'm not some pawn in your game.”

“You'll cooperate or die here with the queen and her play toy!”

“You can't do this Justin. You can't seriously think the people will accept you if you kill Cordonia's new queen.” A lazy smile curled onto his lips.

“You always were a great client, perfect with the spin and drawing everyone one. It won't save you now though.” Before Emma could say anything else, an assassin with an all too familiar mask walked in. He was the one who had tried to kill Emma, shot Drake, he exchanged a few words with Anton.

“You're the bastard who shot me!”

“And tried to kill me!” Emma was furious, she struggled against her bonds again. This man had caused her and Drake so much pain, even if it was all Anton's idea, she wanted to kill him. They taunted Drake, the man revealing his face to him, talking about his father and what a legend he was.

“Wanted to be like dear old dad. Take a bullet for your girl, be the hero.”

“Hey Gerard Butler wannabe! Leave Drake out of this! Your problem is with the crown, that's me now!” His eyes flared with anger as he stomped towards Emma, grabbing her cheeks in his hand and squeezing, pulling her face towards him.

“Maybe I'll kill you first, make your boy toy watch?”

“Walker!” She could hear Drake struggling against his bonds.

“Get your hands off her! I swear to God I'm going to kill you!” He ignored Drake and continued to lean in close to Emma.

“That's going to be the last thing you ever do!” Finally, he rolled his eyes and released Emma from his iron grip walking towards Drake.

“I'd suggest you shut up if you want to see your girl alive for the little bit of time you both have left.”

“I think it's you that should be worried about time because I'm going to kill you. Won't be difficult, you're clearly a poor shot since you only got my shoulder.” that was it. The man cocked his fist back and slammed it into Drake's face, Emma swore she heard a crack and felt it reverberate through her chest.

“Drake!” She screamed but it was no use, he was out cold, slumped in his chair, the only thing holding him up were his restraints.

“That's enough!” Anton stepped up again.

“We finish what we started at the Homecoming Ball. Liam knows you're all being held captive and he'll come alone if he wants to see you alive.” he droned on and on about his plan, how he was destined to fulfill the Nevrakis legacy and how he would rule with Olivia by his side because that was what her parents wanted. Emma tried to focus but her thoughts kept drifting back to Drake, wondering if he was okay. Anton finally left, and Emma struggled to keep her breathing under control as the reality of the situation set in. Drake began to groan beside her as he regained consciousness, Emma cried.

“Drake are you okay?”

“I'm fine Walker. He didn't hurt you, did he?” Emma shook her head and Olivia filled him in on Anton's plan.

“We're fine Walker, don't cry. Liam is going to come for us.” She shook her head again.

“No, he's not Drake, the only reason he'll come for us is Olivia.” He frowned and so did Olivia.

“What?” Olivia asked.

“Don't say that Walker, he loves you. He'll come for you.” Emma shook her head crying.

“Think about it Drake. We die as martyrs. He mourns publicly and gets to pick a new wife, Olivia. He loves her, and she loves him back, the public would love her too. She helps him get over our deaths. We're out of the way, Liam gets everything he wants.” Emma had stopped crying, in that moment you could hear a pin drop as her words sank in.

“Emma as much he hates me, and might be mad at you, he wouldn't let us die.” Drake tried to reassure her but there was no conviction in his voice, she made such a strong case.

“Well no one's going to die today if I have anything to say about it so quit your whining and help me. I'm no one's damsel in distress.” Olivia huffed.

“You have a knife, don't you? You've been holding out on us this whole time.” Olivia smiled wickedly.

“Of course. They didn't find my backup-backup knife, I've been trying to get to it.”  She wiggled against the restraints, her face showing her determination.

“I can't reach it though, you need to get it.” they scooted their chairs together carefully until Emma could teach Olivia's hands.

“Where is it?”

“Just above where my wrists were tied.” Emma fidgeted behind her until she found the knife and began cutting the ropes.

“So why did Drake call you Walker? And Anton called him your husband, so what am I missing?” Emma sighed and continued to slice the ropes till Olivia was free.

“It's not important right now. What's important is getting out of here.” Olivia looked between the two.

“I'm not cutting you loose until someone tells me.” Drake gave Emma an apologetic look.

“We eloped before the wedding. She was my wife first and foremost. Happy? Now cut us loose.” Olivia's eyes flashed with amusement.

“I'm sure Liam was thrilled.” Olivia quipped.

“He doesn't know. Please don't tell him.” Emma begged. Olivia's face was unreadable.

“As long as you let Liam be free.” Drake was confused but Emma knew what she meant and nodded, frankly she didn't care who Liam slept with, besides she thought Liam and Olivia would make a nice pair. It wasn't the time to worry about that though, they needed to get out of there. As soon as Drake was free though, she launched herself at him, Olivia looking for secret passageways or some other way out.

“Are you okay? They didn't hurt you, did they?” Drake grabbed either side of her face and looked Emma over, she only had a few rope burns from struggling against her bonds.

“I'm fine Drake, but you.” She reached up to run her hand along the large bruise forming where Claudius had hit him. Drake flinched, and Emma pulled her hand away.

“I'm sorry, this is my fault. I started egging him on and he took it out on you.” Drake silenced her with a kiss and she fell into it, wrapping her arms around him.

“I'm okay Walker. Let's get out of here.”

“Yes. Please let's get out of here.” Olivia rolled her eyes revealing an old panel that they thought would be their ticket out of there. They were able to find the passage, coming across Gladys as they tried to navigate the old Nevrakis stronghold. Emma decided to trust her, and she led them down to an armory and explained her side of the story to Emma and offered to lure at least some of the guards away. It wasn't much help, but they needed all they could get. As they paced through the halls they heard voices approaching, Drake was ready to swing but Emma stopped him before Hana and Maxwell rounded the corner. They pulled each other into a hug, relief flooding through all of them.

“If you're here then where's Liam?” Olivia snapped. Hana and Maxwell exchanged worried glances.

“He's probably meeting with Anton right now.” Olivia rushed past them and stopped in a doorway, they could see Anton and Liam in the ruins of an old grand entrance. Liam was unarmed and angry, demanding that his friends be released. Anton's thug stepped up and punched Liam in the gut making him double over, he planned to kill him. Emma tried to run in, as much as mad as she was at Liam, he had come for all of them and she didn't want him to die. Liam revealed a dagger in his coat and charged Anton, the others saw their chance and created a distraction with rocks before jumping into the fight. Chaos ensued as all of Emma's friends were in the middle of fighting guards, Claudius had Olivia pinned against the stairs as they wrestled, Drake was cornered by a guard, she rushed to his aid, taking out the guard, Drake grinning appreciatively.

“This isn't exactly how I pictured this night going. I was thinking more rose petals, maybe some candles would be involved.” They moved until they were back to back, fighting off guards.

“Me too Drake. Watching you fight with a sword is still pretty hot though.” As the last guard near them fell, Emma looked up only to find Anton pointing a gun at her.

“Get away from her!” Drake hissed slashing at Anton's arm forcing him to drop the gun. Furious, Anton unsheathed his sword and turned on Drake.

“You want to fight? It'll be your funeral!” He lunged at Drake and Emma couldn't believe what she was seeing, she wasn't going to give Anton another chance.

“NO!” With all her force, she swung her weapon at Anton, drawing blood, shocking him.

“Guards! Cover me!” He began to flee. Olivia rushed after him, the guards circling Drake and Emma once again.

“Why can't we ever find a peaceful moment together?”

“Because that's not our lives. Every moment is so worth it though.” She could hear the grin in his voice.

“You're right. Let's show them how it's done Mr. Walker.” The first guard lunged, and Drake easily sliced him down, the others hesitating as Liam offered mercy for standing down. One by one the guards laid their weapons down, Claudius rising from a pile of ashes.

“You'll never stop Anton!” Liam moved to take him out, but Drake beat him to it.

“This is for trying to shoot Barnes!” He clocked him right in the face. Claudius stumbled back but kept coming.

“This is for actually shooting me and talking about my dad!” Drake kicked him in the groin, making him fall to his knees.

“I told you that if you touched her, I'd kill you. This is for laying a finger on her!” Drake swung his sword down towards his neck and everyone looked away flinching but heard no sound. The sword laid against his neck, he had stopped. Instead Drake kicked him in the face, knocking him out. Everyone breathed out a sigh of relief.

“I'll let the crown deal with you.” Drake threw his sword down breathing heavy. Emma ran to him, thinking it was over.

“Olivia!” Liam rushed up the stairs, they turned to find Anton, bearing her down sword in hand.

“Stand down or die sweetheart!” he said menacingly. Olivia rushed him, knocking his sword away.

“Yes, stand down. I was trained by the fiercest warriors Lythikos had to offer, my parents.” She charged him with the dagger, but Anton caught it and turned it on her, plunging it into her side.

“You seem to have forgotten darling. So was I!” Olivia gasped and fell to the ground, gripping the dagger protruding from her side.

“Liv!” Liam stumbled on the stairs trying to get to her, she tried to stand but fell back down wincing as Anton loomed over her.

“If you can breathe you can stand!” Olivia met Emma's gaze and nodded.

“And if you can stand you can fight!” she pulled the dagger out of her side and managed to catch Anton in the chest before stumbling into Liam's arms unable to support herself.

“Liam, I'm bleeding a lot.” She pulled her hand away, bright red. He brushed a strand of hair from her cheek.

“You're going to be okay. You're a Nevrakis, you're the toughest woman I know.”

“You won't be okay though, this is the end of the line for you.” Anton leveled his sword at Emma and Drake who had rushed up to help. They were pinned against the bannister and it was a long fall. This was it, just as Emma had predicted, Liam had saved Olivia and now she and Drake would pay the price. He glanced back himself and gave her a look, he had an idea, it clicked with Emma as he reached out and squeezed her hand. Maybe it wasn't the end for them after all. Anton lunged, Drake and Emma stepped out of the way at the last moment and shoved him over the railing. He flailed on his way down, Maxwell rushing over to tie him up. It was finally over. Liam carried Olivia down the stairs, Drake and Emma holding each other before joining their friends at the bottom. Moments later, a loud commotion came from the front doors, the Kingsguard led by Mara and Bastien rushing in only to find that once again they were too late.

“What took you so long!” Olivia gasped, clutching her side again, Liam still holding her.

“Your Majesty, I'm glad you're alright.”

“Yes, don't worry about me Bastien. Liv needs medical attention now!” Liam barked. Mara began tending to her wounds, Bastien surveyed the area. He insisted on getting Emma and Liam back to the reception, everyone was waiting to see if they were okay. The moment everyone returned to the palace, cheers erupted, and Emma's friends were greeted by their families, worried but relieved they were safe, Cooper rushing up to Emma. Once the excitement died down, Maxwell pulled Emma and their friends out onto the dance floor, it had become a celebration of their victory and less about the wedding which Emma loved.

Next Time: Well I decided not to kill them. Are they all finally catching a break, or will Drake and Emma’s secret be revealed ruining everything? 

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