#it’s not a new still by any means but it is in 4k (supposedly) for the first time agshdh

[hayden-christensen]

HAYDEN CHRISTENSEN as Anakin Skywalker Still from ‘Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith’ (2005)

[marchtothefuckingsea]

Suspicion - Sean Renard

I made up the blutsauger

My Masterlist

Word Count: 4k (this got really out of hand lmao)

Warnings: Injury, blood, violence but it's canon to the show. A bit ooc in my opinion, cheesy ending.

Hurt/comfort, enemy to caretaker type beat, no usage of y/n, x gender neutral reader !

Summary: (bit of backstory sorry lmao) Sean Renard knows of the new grimm in town; in fact, he's already met them once. He threatens their life, believing one grimm in Portland is already enough, even if he is a 'good' one.

What he doesn't know, is they share the same beliefs as Nick. They're not out to kill all wesen, just the ones that deserve it. He finds this out later, and softens his attitude towards them. They don't know this, however, and when he finds them being attacked while badly injured, his help is less than welcomed by them. They're rightly suspicious.

I grunted as the blutsauger managed a punch to my gut with in-human strength, but I still knew he was toying with me. They were quite a bit stronger than humans, even in their human form, and he hadn’t even woged yet.

“I’m not playing, you fucker.” I growled out, right before he rushed at me, woging instantaneously and slashing my side with his claws. I barely managed to choke back a cry, stumbling back and instinctively pressing an arm to the injury. Logically, I knew it wouldn’t help. Blutsaugers had a substance on their claws similar to a very potent blood thinner, meaning their victims would bleed out quickly. As deep as it was, the wound would have been a concern anyway, but with the effect of the ‘venom’, I knew I didn’t have much time left.

The secondary effect of the substance would come later-if I made it out of this alive- I knew. Unless I could get the antidote before the pain crippled me. Which was looking more and more unlikely as the wesen managed to land another slice on my chest, pain burning through it. I couldn’t stop myself from crying out this time. I desperately reached for the stake at my hip, before surging forward and making a wild dive for his heart. I missed, lodging it in his arm instead as he growled out in a mix of pain and fury, his eyes flashing red.

He staggered back, ripping the stake out of his arm with a snarl and tossing it behind him. My brain scrambled for a new plan, that having been my only stake. It wasn't just a stake you needed to kill them, no, not like the vampires out of fairytales; It had to be a stake made out of the wood of the blutkiefer, the blood pine, or a wooden stake dipped in the sap of the tree. I had used the last of the sap my great great grandfather had left me. I had yet to use any of it myself, this would be my first and last time using it. The tree was supposedly rare to come upon nowadays.

I had considered leaving it, once I had picked up the trail of the blutsauger. He had been feeding on animals, and while those animals were livestock and it wasn’t quite ideal, I thought I would save the sap for a more important confrontation, if the need arose.

That was, until he started picking people off. Then, I had to intervene.

I tripped, barely catching myself as the blood loss started to catch up to me. I could feel blood dripping through my fingers that were pressed over my, now very possibly, fatal wound. His eyes pulsed red again, a wild look in them. I began to stumble backwards frantically, fear suddenly coursing through me as my vision blurred for a moment. All my cockiness as a grimm gone.

I had traced his last kill back to this exact alley, but I had waited until all the cops cleared out and gone out to investigate at night. Unbeknownst to me, the blutsauger knew I was on his trail.

He rushed at me, fangs bared, but didn't sink his teeth into me like I expected. Instead, he quite literally threw me. I slammed into the brick wall of the building with a sickening crack, before crumbling to the ground in a limp heap. I gasped for air desperately, the pain in my ribs not allowing me to do more than gasp out shallow breaths. A pathetic whine escaped my throat as I shut my eyes, shrinking back into the wall.

I cracked my eyes open, seeing the silhouette of the man creeping closer. I heard him snarling. The sight itself was nightmare inducing; the large shadow moving towards me, red eyes flashing, and what little bit of it I could make out was bared fangs and glistening claws.

I jerked back in surprise when a larger figure in a trench coat crashed into him, sending the two skidding several feet away from me. Not taking the time to even process what was happening, I forced myself up onto my forearms, biting back a sob when a sharp jolt was sent through my ribs and I fell back, squeezing my eyes shut as I attempted to push some of the pain back.

I lay on the concrete, my breaths coming in quick pants, as blood began to flow even more freely out of my wound. Despite laying down, a wave of dizziness swept me up, making the entire alley spin. I let out a quiet moan of pain, pressing my hand even harder to my stomach in a feeble attempt to slow the bleeding. The sounds of the fighting became more in the background than anything else, my pulse rushing in my ears.

The sound of a gunshot suddenly broke the air, my eyes snapping open. I weakly lifted my head but I couldn't make anything out through my blurred sight. I allowed my head to rest back on the ground, accepting my fate as I stared foggily up at the dim street light above me.

My head lolled to the side, and the pressure I was putting on my stomach wound lessened, before my hand dropped to my side. I thought I heard footsteps. My mind began to drift as my eyes fluttered open and closed, fighting to stay conscious. I knew if I passed out now, I'd be dead long before I would wake up again.

I felt two fingers gently rest on my neck. I tossed my head side to side, groaning in protest, before I jerked up abruptly. I scrambled away from the person crouched in front of me, blinking rapidly to try to clear my vision and my head. My entire body screamed at me to take it easy. Everything hurt.

I suddenly realized they were speaking to me. My head was pounding furiously, but soon his face came into focus. My eyes widened in alarm. Sean Renard. His previous threat immediately came to mind. I shakily propped myself onto my forearms, even though I knew there was no way out of this. Not alive, anyway. He didn't even have to kill me himself; He would just have to wait for the bleeding to take its toll on me which, at this rate, wouldn't be much longer. With the tiredness tugging at my already weak body, pure adrenaline had kept me going up until this point, but I didn't have much of it left.

"I'm not going to hurt you." His voice finally came through to me. I shook my head in response, desperately floundering to sit upright. It was then, I realized just how much blood I had lost. The concrete around me was stained maroon. I became lightheaded. I leaned back against the concrete, squeezing my eyes shut and shaking in fear. This was really how I was going to go.

I slowly lowered myself back onto my side, my face screwing up in unmasked pain. I let out an agonized breath, my hand instinctively drawing up to my ribcage in a defensive manner. I saw the zauberbiest close in on me just a little bit more and I pressed myself closer to the brick wall, as if that would protect me. I suddenly felt really weak. I sighed, relaxing into the pavement. I no longer cared, my fogged mind told me.

My eyes fluttered open when his hand touched my side. I winced slightly, my arms tightened around my torso.

"It's okay. Don't worry. I'm going to help." He said, almost softly. My mind warned me it was a trick. These wesen were good at that. I shrank back at that thought. I couldn't hide the fact that I was terrified.

"Don't." I mumbled out weakly. "Please." He hesitantly reached for me again, his hands heading straight for my injuries.

"Please-" I choked out in fear. "I don't- kill wesen just. Just because."I struggled to defend myself, to give him a reason not to finish me off. I fought to form words at this point, my tongue felt too big for my mouth, my brain too sluggish.

"Shh. I know." He soothed me, inching towards my injuries. I noticed, but did nothing. I didn't have any fight left in me, just fear and a quickly dwindling will to live.

"You're going to die if you don't let me help you." He said grimly. "You have nothing to lose." He was right. I would die either way, but I didn't want to die at his hands. My eyes slowly closed as I contemplated.

A large hand lightly slapped the side of my face, jolting me awake again.

"Stay with me." He demanded.

"Help." I mumbled. He wasted no time, knowing exactly what I meant. I pushed my instincts back, allowing him access to the wounds on my

abdomen. A grimace crossed his features when he saw the extent of my injuries.

"Fuck." He muttered under his breath. "We can't take you to a hospital for this, you know that, right?" His eyes met mine, an almost frantic look in them. I could see him fighting not to woge, the veins in his face crawling.

I somehow managed a dry, weak laugh. "I know."

"Good. I can take care of this myself." He reassured me. I barely heard him. It took me a moment to realize he had slid his arms under me.

"I can walk." I protested, squirming in his hold.

"Not a chance." He said firmly, his voice resonating in his chest. My eyes drooped and I relaxed into his arms tiredly, no longer fighting. I had no choice but to trust him. I shivered weakly, almost instinctively curling into his chest. Even in his human form, he was unusually warm. I appreciated it right at this moment. My eyes fluttered shut reluctantly, and I drifted off, feeling strangely safer than I had in a long time.

I groaned, a burning sensation in my veins stirring me awake. My hands gripped the sheets until my knuckles turned white, my eyes flickering open. Despite the dim lighting, a sharp pain jolted into my head. I groaned again, rolling onto my side and squeezing my eyes shut. I immediately regretted it, gasping out a pained breath before curling my arms around my ribcage. Every nerve burned like it was on fire, but the gashes on my side and chest were the worst. I curled into a ball, as if lessening my surface area would somehow relieve some of the pain.

I stayed this way for several heartbeats, before a crashing sound from another room made me force my eyes open. I unfurled from my balled up position, my eyes hazily darting around the room as I realized I wasn’t alone. I heard faint cursing. I suddenly remembered the turn of events that had taken place, a wave of a sort of reluctant calm washing over me. It was a strange feeling, one that left me confused and slightly concerned. I wondered if he had done or given me something to make me feel like this.

I used this time to let my eyes adjust to the light, before lazily going over everything in the room. Everything was neat and expensive looking, and the view of the city was breathtaking, to say the least, even from my spot on the bed. His bed, I realized.

I gingerly flipped onto my side, relaxing into the mattress and drawing in a deep breath as I gazed at the city lights, trying to distract myself from the pain. I found myself drifting off, my tired eyelids fluttering. I sighed again, snuggling down into the sheets, before a sudden searing pain jolted me out of my half-asleep state. I groaned, rolling onto my back again as I heard another dropping sound in the other room and more cursing. I draped a limp arm over my stomach and winced as the burning began to ramp up again; ever so slowly beginning to creep back up to the unbearable levels from before.

I suddenly heard footsteps approaching, my eyes darting over to the direction they were coming from. I struggled onto my elbows, fear beginning to creep into my chest as this became all too real again.

I grit my teeth, desperately trying to force myself into a sitting position, to appear stronger than I currently was. My breath quickened.

"You're awake." He stated, crossing the room with a jar in hand. He leaned down, placing the jar and its contents on the nightstand, before pulling a chair over and sitting next to the bed. My eyes darted over to the jar, which held a tan-ish liquid, something similar looking to a sludgy oatmeal.

"How are you feeling?" He asked, a concerned note creeping into his voice. It sounded genuine, and that surprised me. Zauberbiest were not known for being kind. He clasped his hands and rested his elbows on his knees, leaning forward ever so slightly.

I had given up trying to sit up, instead opting for half lying down, half sitting up position. It was far from the comfiest position.

"Good." I managed to answer, my voice cracking pathetically. I coughed, my arm that rested around my torso tightening around instinctively. I suddenly realized he had bandaged me up, and my clothes were clean.

Not my clothes. His, I was pretty sure. I wasn't sure how fond I was of that idea, so I didn't dwell on it too long.

"You don't have to lie." His brow creased. "I'm not holding you here against your will, you're free to leave, I assure you."

I gritted my teeth as I became aware of the burning slowly worsening.

"I've been better. But I'm feeling better than before." I admitted.

"I'm sure you are." A small, unexpected smile crossed his face.

"I managed to come up with something to stop you from bleeding out, and I've bandaged your wounds. Your clothes were soiled so.." He trailed off a bit awkwardly at that, coughing and glancing down at the floor.

"Thank you." I said appreciatively, meeting his gaze. I really did mean it.

"Of course." He cut himself off when I visibly winced, a wave of pain crashing over me. I turned my head away, trying to hide it, but it didn't work.

He opened his mouth to say something, but I cut him off. "I'm fine." I tried to reassure him through gritted teeth, my hand tightly gripping the shirt I wore. I flinched back when he moved to put a comforting hand on my shoulder.

"I'm fine." I repeated, scooting away. I had no choice but to shift back to laying down, the pain suddenly overwhelming. I squeezed my eyes shut, my head still turned away from him as I tried to regain my bearings. I took a deep breath, steeling myself before I turned back to him.

When I did, I saw he had woged. I hastily pushed myself to my forearms whilst shoving myself back and away from him, frantically trying to get as far away from him as possible. It wasn't really so much the..sight of his wesen form that scared me, it was what he would do.

He shifted back, a stressed look on his face. "It's okay. I'm not going to hurt you." He reassured me, his voice tense.

My breath hitched in my throat in panic as he reached for me. I flinched away when his hand tenderly brushed against my cheek before pulling away, his expression was unreadable.

"I apologize." He offered no further explanation.

I warily lowered myself back down onto the furthest side of the bed, my features twisting in pain. I sucked in a sharp breath, a sudden, burning pain rushing through my veins, omce again reminding me of the previous events that had unfolded.

I forced my eyes open, glancing up at him with a guarded gaze. "Did you kill the blutsauger?" I asked him softly, shifting to get more comfortable while I still could. I set my jaw, determined not to show how badly in pain I was.

A low growl resonated from his throat, his veins crawling up his neck and face, threatening to woge. I instinctively shrank back a bit, though I tried to fight it. He had every opportunity to hurt me, or even kill me, and he hadn't. That had to mean something, right?

"Yes." He answered tautly, taking a deep breath. He glanced over to me, taking in the state of my weak form. I hated how vulnerable I felt.

"Why did you help me?" I asked him suddenly.

"I've been..keeping an eye on you, shall we say. I think you'd like to meet the other grimm I spoke of before, you two seem to share the same morals." He said carefully. "I couldn't just let another 'good' grimm die now, could I?" His voice was slightly teasing, a coy smile playing on his face.

"What do you want from me, then?" My suspicions returned. I knew he had a motive; zauberbiest were never kind or caring for no reason, and very rarely was it ever genuine. I shifted, struggling to prop myself up against the pillows. I huffed in frustration. I hated feeling so incredibly weak.

He reached for me then, causing me to flinch back, the slightest hint of panic flashing in my eyes. I leaned away from him as he retracted hands, holding them up to show he meant no harm.

"Let me help you." He said, his voice neither demanding nor insistent. It was an offer.

I once again tried sitting up on my own before a stabbing pain tore through my middle. I fell back, sucking in a sharp breath.

"Fine." I hissed out reluctantly. It took everything in me not to flinch away as he reached for me this time. His touch was surprisingly gentle and kind, his large hands lingering on my shoulders for a brief moment before he pulled away.

"Thanks." I muttered out. "So, what do you want? You must have a reason for this." I gestured to myself.

He thought for a moment, his forehead creasing, and my suspicions grew even more. So he did want something. Of course. It wasn't unexpected, but I had thought hopefully, maybe..

"Your trust." He decided finally, breaking me out of my thoughts. I frowned, my eyes trailing over his face warily.

"And that's all?"

"Look, I know you're suspicious-"

"I'm more than suspicious. Your kind are nothing but con artists." I cut myself off before I could say anymore. I was still aware of the fact that I was under his care, and I still needed to get the antidote, regardless of what he had given me to stop the bleeding.

The antidote. I had completely forgotten.

"How long was I out?" I asked him abruptly.

"No more than an hour- why?" I didn't have much longer before the pain would become too crippling to do anything. No wonder it had steadily been getting worse.

I shakily scooted to the edge of the bed, swinging my legs over and pushing myself to my feet. My legs were weak and unsteady. He stood as soon as I did, towering over me. I swayed on my feet, clutching an arm to my torso. I took a hasty step forward, Renard hovering over me and holding his arms out, unsure what to do.

"Don't, you're going to hurt yourself-" I took another step before my legs gave out, almost sending me crashing to the floor. He stepped forward, catching me with his arms around my waist. My ribs shifted and stabbed me in protest as I groaned, struggling to tear myself from his grip. I needed to get the antidote before I would be physically unable to.

"The antidote." I choked out, still struggling. He guided me back over to the bed, which I gratefully-but reluctantly- collapsed onto as the burning in my veins increased yet again. He held me close as I trembled, my muscles tensed in agony, gripping the sleeves of his shirt until my knuckles whitened, almost desperate for any kind of comfort. I panted in unmaskable pain and distress, leaning into him weakly.

"It's okay." He promised softly, resting his head on top of mine, his hands rubbing slowly up and down my back. I whined quietly, leaning into him. His warmth somehow eased the burning that was now making its way across my skin as well as my veins.

"I need to make the antidote." I mumbled out once the pain had passed, and I could form a coherent sentence. I slowly pulled away from him. His arms tightened around me, and I began to struggle.

"Wait-" He started before I managed to duck under his arms and scoot away. The pain hit me like a truck, even worse, and I doubled over, unable to stop the hoarse gasp that clawed its way up my throat. The pain clouded my mind.I was vaguely aware of Renard quickly moving over the me and pulling me back against him. I squirmed in his arms, but after a few heartbeats the burning began to fade again. I sighed in relief, exhausted, though I was still tense against him.

"That's.. what I was trying to explain." He muttered, though his arms tightened around me. I noticed the faint glow emanating from his hands. He was trying to help with my pain.

"I'm fine, I just need to make the-"

"The antidote. I get it." He cut me off. "I have it." He nodded over to the jar on the bedside table.

I glanced up at him suspiciously, still not really trusting him, or the strange feeling of security I felt in his arms.

"If I wanted to do something, I would have done it already." He said matter-of-factly. I couldn't deny that. I didn't really have much of a choice anyway, I wouldn't be able to get back home on my own, let alone make the concoction. It took half an hour or more to simmer. I would have brought some with me just in case, but it had to be consumed almost immediately after it cooled to room temperature, or it wouldn't work.

I nodded slightly, and he reached over to the table, carefully unscrewing the lid of the jar before handing it to me. I stared down at the steaming, milky substance, still debating if I could trust him that much or not. His request echoed in my mind. He wanted my trust? What did that even mean?

Without another thought, I gulped down the contents of the jar, which didn't taste near as bad as I expected it to. He took the jar from me without a word, setting it back on the table. He said nothing, but I glanced up at him, seeing a small smile on his face. I trusted him. He met my gaze, and I saw nothing but kindness in his eyes at the moment.

Maybe I had just been played like a fool, tricked into drinking a deadly concoction, but I sensed no malice in his intentions. He had done more than enough to prove that I could trust him, and I did, somehow.

I leaned back against him, this time willing myself to relax as I gazed at his glowing palms, the smallest bit mesmerized. I had never heard of zauberbiest or hexenbiest that possessed healing magic. Either it was never recorded in books by other grimms, or he was different in some way.

"We all do, though some more than others." I hadn't realized I said that aloud. "Mine aren't all that strong, for example, I can relieve pain and minor wounds caused by magic or other wesen, but anything more than that is beyond my abilities. It's not necessarily a skill I've focused on, either." He continued. I listened quietly, my eyes beginning to droop, his voice soothing me. I sighed.

"The potion may take a while to work." He said suddenly.

"Three hours, I think." I agreed tiredly. I frowned, the idea of having to be in pain again for another few hours.. daunting.

"You need to rest." He shifted, probably tired of having to sit with me. I moaned quietly in protest, my ribs jostling about.

"Don't go." I mumbled.

"I wasn't planning to." He reassured me. He lied down, gently pulling me with him. I curled into him, barely awake. I faintly felt an arm settle around my waist almost protectively, keeping me close to him. I hummed contentedly, a feeling of security allowing me to drift off into a restful sleep.

[spring-picnics]

The Wedding | Byler & Lumax

w/c: 4k

warnings: tipsy kissing, check down below for any important knowledge!

a/n: i loved writing this and it is for byler secret santa 2022 for @reactiontolife. hope that all of you guys enjoy and have a great new year!!!!

In my vision, Mike and Will are living in NYC and write best selling graphic novels together, but as Lucas’ best man and Max’s bridesmen (along with their flexible careers), they've temporarily moved to Chicago to help plan Lucas and Max’s wedding.

Lucas is an EMT and Max is a high school counselor. Erica is a mathematician and El is a highschool teacher and they also live in Chicago with Lucas and El. Dustin lives in Washington and works alongside the government in scientific relations to prevent any incidents similar to what happened in Hawkins. Steve also lives with him.

The main gang are about 26, 27 and the citrus six are 29, 30 and Erica is 24.

You are cordially invited to Maxine Mayfield and Lucas Sinclair’s Wedding Ceremony…

A beautiful, crisp card with gentle cursive font encased in an almost velvety envelope tied together with a satin bow. Mike knows that Will and Lucas spent hours picking the perfect invite for Lucas’ perfect wedding. He’s seen the vision board, and the scrapbook, and the practice dinners as a part of his best man duties. Though he apparently has “the eye of a colour blind racoon” and “cannot tell rustic from sophisticated decor,” he is still a part of the wedding planning. Unfortunately, this means he is also a part of the wedding ragging in which Max reminds him as much as possible that she has put a ring on it, while he has, as she puts it so eloquently, “no bitches.”

Now, in hindsight, RSVP-ing to the wedding was truly unnecessary since he was such an integral part of the ceremony, and RSVP-ing to the wedding slightly wine-drunk was even more unnecessary, but here he is with Lucas applauding him for finally landing a date to the wedding.

“What?” Mike’s voice rasps with the weight of a hangover and his perpetual lack of sleep.

Lucas stops clapping. A wide grin graces his face. “Dude! I came over to check whether the invites sent properly,” Mike’s eyes squint at the light from the open curtains, “You’re bringing a plus one?”

Mike sits upright and then immediately keels over from the shock. The lackluster events of last night definitely don’t flood his head with interesting memories, but a short replay of opening the invite reminds him of what Lucas is talking about. On the desk lies the stunning invite, the envelope and a small RSVP card signed Michael Wheeler with a little checkbox ticked. In front of the door stands an excited engaged man with high hopes for his best friend, waiting for an answer.

“Uh… Yeah, me and Will have been thinking of making it official.” Mike tries to keep his cool before he begins displaying symptoms of his outright lies. Lucas, however, isn’t blind or dumb; he’s known Mike for approximately 20 years. If he tries hard enough, he can guess what Mike’s eaten for breakfast. It’s pretty clear what's up, but also, this is the most entertaining thing that has ever happened, so he plays along, “You guys finally got together! That’s incredible, Mike. I owe Max but this is definitely worth it.”

Mike’s face immediately drops at the mention of his supposedly obvious feelings, before trying to ease the tense silence with even more awkward laughs. Mike mentally rearranges his list of priorities for the wedding:

1. GET WILL TO AGREE TO COME AS YOUR PLUS ONE.

Lucas finally leaves with an air of some kind of accomplishment that Mike can’t understand. All that Mike can comprehend is the blaring new goal to get Will Byers to say yes to his drunken and seemingly impossible ask.

Mike spends an hour or two getting ready. Showering, styling his hair, wearing a suit and then realising he’s trying too hard, before eventually deciding to just wing it.

Winging it was what anyone in the right state of mind would call “shitty judgement,” but Mike still rocks up with his fluffy curls and tired eyes and nailbiting anxiety.

He locked his apartment room and turned to the door opposite. For the first time in the last few months, having apartments right opposite each other was more of a pain than the saving grace it typically was. Inside was Will Byers, his comic book coworker, his best friend, the man he has been hopelessly and endlessly in love with since they got fake married back in third grade. And now he has to ask that same man to pretend to return that same endless love because he has to prove himself to Lucas “Doubtful” Sinclair and Max “Sass” Mayfield. This Monday was turning out to be an absolute dream for Mike!

Mike’s eyes close as he quietly lets air flow into his lungs. Exhale, inhale, exhale, inhale. He allows his head to gently fall onto the door before regaining position and bringing his hand up. His palm rests on the dark mahogany as a silent prayer for some sort of relief from this new personal hell, before the wood under it disappears.

“Mike!”

Will’s face lightens up with a welcoming grin that Mike can't resist returning. He unknowingly acts like a soft candle, warming him, sustaining him, brightening his life. Mike’s hand drops from its place in the air, and Mike suddenly pales, realising his impossible task.

Will notices Mike’s face flash with fear, one that's reminiscent of their time back in Hawkins, and immediately reaches for a hug. His arms completely encompass Mike and his overbearing nerves. The soft wool of Will’s sweater blankets Mike’s hands and eases his worries. Mike’s breath catches and when Will finally questions him,the river of his thoughts finally breaks free. Similar to a dam being broken, Mike asks “Do you want to be my date to the wedding?”

At once, Will steps back, and Mike instantly craves his warmth. His cheeks are flushed, and words are falling out of his mouth in a flood of rapid confusion, and Mike thinks he's fucked up. Will thinks he's still dreaming despite being up since 5 am.

“As a friend! As in pretend! Like I made a mistake and now I need to look like I have a date, and that I’m not all alone and desperate and desolate.”

“Oh.”

Mike thinks his heart might have just broken in two. He doesn't understand what he’s done wrong, but he knows that he’s messed something up. Was Will shocked? Was Will disgusted? Was Will… disappointed? Mike isn't dumb, he knows that something in their dynamic has shifted in an unrepairable way, but Mike isn't a quitter, and so he keeps standing, waiting for an answer.

Will eventually manages to stutter out a “sure.”

2. Work on the set for Lucas and Max’s Bachelor Games Night.

Mike can tell that Will is in a complete daze. Mike just asked him out but it's pretend? He should be losing it. All Mike wishes for is Will, and despite the confused mood of the conversation, Mike can't take his eyes off of Will; he looks absolutely ethereal in his sweater.

It's Will’s favourite; a sepia cashmere pullover that hangs on his frame. Mike remembers buying it. Their first novel had been published. All the long nights and tough edits had been worth it for the living proof of their identity, their pride and joy. And they were ecstatic, so ecstatic that Mike went and spent $400 on a Christmas sweater for Will.

Now that Mike was in Will’s apartment, standing in the tense silence, he couldn't help but ponder that maybe, just maybe, the sweater was more of a gift to himself than to Will.

“So the set?” Mike tries to ease the two back into a simple conversation again, and after a few minutes of clumsy back and forth small talk, they begin to throw themselves into the work.

Will and El, being the caring, thoughtful souls they are, had picked up the planning for the whole bachelor/bachelorette hybrid, and had been building a game show set for everyone to play in. El had spent hours upon hours taking wooden panels and screws and building little lecturns for the gang, with Will buying neon colours and lights and Mike writing up all sorts of weird trivia to test their “Mucas Knowledge!”

They continued to force themselves through the doubt and bewilderment until the set is finally done. Bright pink and electric blue red lecturns to represent Lucas and Max’s teams respectively. After a few moments of appraisal, they decided to split apart with quiet goodbyes.

“Wait… Will, I should explain what I said before.”

Mike sits with Will and tries to clear the tension. He watches Will slowly piece together the narrative and then sigh deeply in what Mike picks up as annoyance, yet also regret.

“Should we make a plan?” Will’s eyes shine in the light and Mike knows that this “pretend” relationship will definitely hurt his real feelings.

3. Continue planning activities for Max’s awe-inspiring month long honeymoon.

The pair eventually split up after deciding on all the planned details: Mike and Will accidentally kissed one night while writing together, they went on a dinner date, and now they've been together for two months, since the wedding planning started.

Will goes to work with Lucas on wedding details despite being Max’s pick for bridesman, while Mike goes to work with Max on figuring out the details to the two month long honeymoon that Lucas and Max want. Lucas comes to pick Will up; he chooses to say nothing as Mike stares pointedly at the wedding dreamboard in the back seat. Mike has known Lucas since elementary and has also known Lucas since the day he began planning Max and his wedding (eighth grade). They both declare a silent truce while watching each other's obvious symptoms of lovesickness.

Mike drives over to Max and Lucas’ apartment. The love that exists from doorway to livingroom makes the place feel akin to a home. He wishes him and Will could spend their days somewhere like here. Kate Bush wafts through the apartment to where Mike is taking off his shoes. Everytime Max calls Mike over she plays Babooshka, and everytime he comes, she gaslights him about what song is playing. Mike still doesn't understand that Kate Bush is playing.

At the couch, Erica and Max have a passionate conversation about the nuances of Heathers. Mike can vaguely recall the gang watching it together in the cinema. He remembers Erica’s approval of Veronica. He distinctly recalls Lucas describing each detail to Max and then getting told off for it by some entitled mother. He also recalls absolutely berating the shit out of that woman. A leader always takes care of the pack, the heart always beats.

Mike coughs dramatically (the heart needs love too) to interrupt the two.

“Hello Mr Byers,” Erica nonchalantly slips in. Mike almost doesn't notice the change, but once he catches Max’s chuckle, he turns bright red.

“Oh God, he’s even more whipped than we anticipated.”

Mike mumbles a simple “shut up Max.” He is definitely not having a good Monday.

The pair share one last glance before bringing up the reservations and tickets and potential activities that Max and Lucas can do together. They're flying to Toronto. Lucas has wanted to see the Canadian landscape since he was eleven and Max wants to see how nice the people are. On a scale from Mike to El, she predicts that they will be about as kind as Dustin: sweet but somewhat passionate about certain topics to the point of hostility and possible manslaughter.

After approximately twenty minutes of talking, the conversation merges into something entirely different. The Honeymoon itinerary was finished two months ago thanks to the unexpected speed and some kind of odd spite that the three harboured. Yet they still continue to meet. The trio see each other every Saturday for different reasons: Max wants Lucas to have as much time planning his dream ceremony without any pressure, Erica hasn’t seen Mike nearly as much as she wants to with him being her second older brother and all, and Mike misses the easy flowing sarcasm that emanates between Max and Erica.

They spend the whole afternoon spilling gossip from Max’s high school and hearing about Erica’s new theory that she's so damn close to understanding, and Mike is so confused, but this is what he missed. He misses Max complaining about the schooling system and he misses Erica shitting on the ancient Greeks for Pythagoras, and, most importantly, he misses the feeling of home.

Finally, late at night, Lucas trudges into the living room, worn out from another fight with the florist. Erica and Mike say their goodbyes and walk down to the parking lot. Before they depart, Erica turns to Mike.

“I know you’re a man of many overthoughts, but I want you to know that if you need a sign, take it. Don’t hurt yourself anymore.” Erica’s voice hushes and in the dark night, she can't see his shocked expression. There is an unspoken understanding between the two as to what this is about and Mike’s eyes gloss over with the realisation that Erica has somehow grown up while he was in New York.

He drives back with Erica's wisdom on his mind and Will’s name on his lips.

4. Pick up flowers with Will.

One more week. One more week until Max and Lucas are finally tied together in holy matrimony, and the electricity is truly in the air. As Max and Lucas’ godsends, Mike and Will have been bogged with task after task after task. Today is the night of the bachelor party and while El fixes the finishing details as game show host, Mike and Will are picking up all of the flower centrepieces and checking the order for the bouquet before the event.

Mike stalks to the counter in a precarious fashion, being careful not to slip on a tile. He reminds the owner of the order placed and then turns around to speak to Will, his breath catching.

Will is standing by a display of sunflowers and daffodils looking like a breath of fresh air. His hair surrounds him like a halo, all fluffy and blown out thanks to his shampoo routine. He’s wearing a bright yellow sweater and before Mike can make a fool of himself, Will shouts to him, “we’re matching!” Mike nearly blushes when Will begins to gesture to the flowers.

Mike opens his mouth. He can’t stay silent anymore. “Will, about the wedding, I don't think we should-” His mouth clamps shut when the owner walks back in with several boxes of flowers and garlands. Mike hates that this moment is ruined and his confidence is spoiled.

He half-asses a lie about what he was saying in the flower shop, and spends the rest of the car ride mourning his sanity and grieving what could have been.

5. Celebrate at the bachelor party.

Mike wonders if Will can tell that something is wrong. Maybe it's the new closed off attitude or the constant longing stare or the fact that everytime Max makes a comment about “their relationship,” he scowls. But if there is anything that Mike can do, it’s pretending that he's fine, that he's happy.

Mike can tell that everyone knows about the relationship’s authenticity, but he’s too stubborn to back down. Will keeps up the charade, but he seems uneasy at every little compliment and action. El has been quietly spying on every single move that they’ve made throughout the whole night.

The game show goes incredibly. El is an amazing host and she has a sort of palpable energy that passes through everyone. Her Taylor Swift Party playlist and bright fairy lights brought the whole night together and the whole gang had fun, but now the evening has mellowed down. Erica, El and Max are all sitting on the couch and sharing a bottle of champagne, whispering about every single move Mike makes. Lucas and Dustin have set up beer pong. Mike sulks in a corner sipping a fancy cocktail that Will made him while Will watches from the kitchen. Back when El started drinking, she wouldn't want a regular beer or tequila, so Will had spent several months before their 22nd birthday secretly perfecting his craft, to surprise her with his free bartending services for the rest of their lives. Now they’re 26 and El has gained a taste for champagne bubbles, so instead, Mike takes full advantage of his fake boyfriend’s superb skills.

Mike can tell that Will knows he’s getting tipsy, and that his delicate and drunk mindset is definitely on the verge of tears. Mike stands up, a little too quickly for his liking, and then slightly stumbles out to the balcony, trying not to trip over his own feet, to see the night sky of Chicago. He can’t think of anything when he watches the bright lights of the city. He wishes Will was next to him to see the sky. A few thoughts linger in the back of his mind. Is alcohol liquid courage or liquid sadness? Is he destined to end up alone? Where is Will? His alcoholic breakdown is set on hold when he feels a hand on his shoulder.

“Hey. I thought I should check on you.” Mike’s eyes drift to the figure behind him. He can’t help but smile at the man behind him. Crystalline tears begin to form on his waterline. Will brings his other hand to Mike’s forehead, checking for a fever, and he finds one. Mike’s face is flushed with the heat of his love, and Will’s eyes worriedly scan his face.

“Can I,” Mike whispers to Will.

“Can you what?” Mike feels like Will is searching through his soul, but he can't find it in himself to care. If he could, he would surround Will in his love like a blanket. If Will asked, he would plate his heart on a silver platter. If Will was the sun, then Mike would be Icarus, flying too close no matter what the risk, or the moon, always shining in his light. If he was the ocean, Mike would drown himself just to be with him forever.

Mike looks down at his lips, and then back into Will’s eyes. His voice goes even softer, “You know what I want.”

Mike places his palm on Will’s cheek and his lips turn slightly up, waiting for a reaction. Will look unsure, almost like he thinks Mike is lying or tricking him, before slowly nodding. It’s a small, gentle movement that Mike wouldn't have felt unless he was paying full attention to Will. “Yes. You can.”

Mike leans in and his lips stop right in front of Will’s. He wants to savour this moment, he wants to save this memory like a snow globe to watch over and over again, he wants to live the rest of his life like this, vulnerable in front of Will. When the moment is finally ingrained into Mike’s brain, he goes in passionately. His lips catch onto Will’s and he encompasses Will’s face with both hands in a desperate manner. Mike will never be the same.

Mike can feel Will relax into his touch. Will’s hands gradually begin to travel around Mike. His fingers grasp at Mike’s dark curls and when Will runs out of breath in the fury of Mike’s engulfing love, he lifts Mike’s chin away. Mike’s expression slightly saddens with the loss of Will, until he hears a quiet but warm laugh. “God, I’ve waited so long for that.” Mike smiles. It’s a sweet, gentle smile that spreads to Will like smoke from a fire. Mike doesn't know how, but his hands are in Will’s, and even though he’s unsure about most things, he knows that Will will be there tomorrow morning, and the morning after, and every single morning after that.

The party slowly filter out of Will’s apartment to leave the two alone. When Will and Mike are too tired to kiss anymore, they walk over to Mike’s apartment. His head has fallen on Will’s shoulder, and Will’s hand rests on Mike’s lower back, leading him over to the bed. Mike lies on the bed and falls asleep, content with the warm body that sits next to him and the even warmer feeling in his heart.

6. Go to the wedding.

Mike wakes up to his piercing alarm and his very much real and extremely hot boyfriend. After they wander to the kitchen and fix themselves a cup of coffee, Mike and Will come to the confounding realisation that today, some of their best friends are getting married. Today will be a long day.

They both live in somewhat of a haze while rushing through wedding protocol. Will works on curling Max’s hair while El does her makeup, and Mike helps Lucas practice his vows, singing and mimicking weird voices for Max’s lines to help Lucas take his mind off of the speeches and people and niceties. The only thing Lucas isn't anxious about is Max.

The day is stressful, as most wedding days are, but the day is also full of love. Max spends all of her time getting ready listening to a playlist Lucas made for her, for their relationship. And Lucas scratches Max’s initials at the bottom of his shoes so he can carry her with him throughout the reception, just like how she inscribed his initials into the fence of her house back in ninth grade.

They’re happy, and Mike knows it. He loves it. He’s missed seeing them together.

Their babysitters have all finally arrived to ease the situation even more. Nancy takes the lead and begins to organise the decorating of the garden. Jonathan and Robin carry out her orders and use their detail oriented eyes to put together a beautiful altar at the front of the garden. Steve and Eddie have taken to helping relations between all the workers. Eddie helps carry in the cake, Steve shows the photographer inspired wedding pictures and explains how the couple would like to be portrayed, Argyle helps Max relax in an interesting manner. It may or may not have involved weed. The wedding is messy, but it's beautiful like their love is.

Throughout the day, Will and Mike share glances and hesitant smiles. Yesterday was special, and things have definitely shifted, but today is about their friends, their family, their chosen blood.

Eventually, the party is ready. Family and friends are sitting on beautiful white chairs and Mike, Dustin, El, Will and Lucas stand up at the front. Eddie nervously fiddles with his palm cards as he waits for the bride to enter. Steve escorts Max down the aisle, placing one hand on her shoulder, and another on her wheelchair. She’s breathtaking. Her auburn hair is tied down in intricate braids at the top, while the rest falls naturally in loose curls. She’s wearing a cream dress that falls near the wheels of her chair and she can hear Lucas’ crying.

Lucas stops playing with his fingers as soon as he sees her smile. He remembers the first time he saw her smile like that, at the snowball. He can't believe that he gets to spend every single day of the rest of their lives together. Max has known this would happen ever since that school dance.

Steve parks Max right next to the altar and Max chuckles at his obvious sniffles. He’s been there through everything, and she knows that he would take care of her no matter what. He sits down, and Eddie begins officiating them.

Mike and Will can't remember most of the vows and small details, but they will never forget the love that they could feel as Max and Lucas whispered “I do.”

At the after party, Max and Lucas dance, and El joins, lifting spirits with her joyous attitude. She’s proud that her friends are now family in more ways than one. She and Max cry in the stall when it finally hits Max that Lucas just vowed that she would never be alone. Max eventually comes out and tells Lucas that she hasn't felt alone ever since 1986. Dustin and Eddie reunite and laugh the night away while making fun of Steve. They also all cry together in a corner when they watch Lucas and Max’s rings clink together and shine in the dim light. Nancy and Robin eat dinner and catch up with Erica, while Jonathan and Argyle join the cryfest that Dustin is hosting. Mike and Will sit in the corner and watch their friends celebrate the love that exists in the party. They know that they’re all older and wiser, but they're still the same family that started back in Hawkins. Though time has hurt, time has also healed, and Mike and Will silently thank the universe for blessing them with this happiness. For being able to see their friends alive and well together, for having each other, for having become people that they can be proud of.

Mike and Will share another kiss before they go back out and celebrate with their friends. This day will forever live in their memories.

@spring-picnics

[wannabemobwife]

Guns, Glamour and Goodfellas - Chapter 16

Chapter 16: Things We Supposedly Lost in the Fire

Dad!Mob!Tom x Mom!Mob!Reader

-Pairings: Tom Holland x Reader, Rosie Holland x Henry Osterfield

-Warnings: Grief, barely suicidal thoughts, fire

-Words: 4K

Author note: Tom and Y/N don’t really age, I think of them as like Barbie and Ken, never aging. Final chapter will be up tonight around 9-10 PM PST. Sorry for the wait, you guys are so patient. Love ya.

Chapter 16: Things We Supposedly Lost in the Fire

Words: 4K

There you were, standing alongside your husband, daughter and friend as the building before your eyes erupted in a blaze. Smashing windows as the remaining members of Wilson’s mob, funneled their way out of the burning warehouse. Coughing up all the inhaled smoke.

One by one, people bursted out of the doors gasping for fresh air. Their lungs constricted from the dark ash that bled through the sky. You just stood there, next to your family, taking in the sight before you. As sirens rang through the air

The smoke and flames kept raging on, but there was still no sign of Parker.

That was 5 days ago. Now, you were in the present, trying to survive. The fire that took 3 days to put out, claimed the lives of your son Parker, Carter Wilson and multiple men.

Everyone was dealing with Parker’s demise differently. Harrison and Henry had so generously offered to stay with all of you for the time being. You took them up on that.

You refused to leave your room for a week, barely acknowledging Tom and Rosie. Tom would try to get some reaction from you, but you would lay there, catatonic. Oblivious to the outside world. Maybe coming down for a cup of coffee but then heading straight up back to your room.

Parker was your baby boy, words couldn’t express how you were feeling. A piece of you was missing.

You would walk down stairs and catch a glimpse of all the photographs perched everywhere, showcasing you, Tom, Rosie and Parker’s greatest moments. Everything reminded you of him.

The car keys flooded back memories of first teaching him how to drive. You were so scared. Every parent feels the same but it is hard to relinquish control of your car and put your life in someone else’s hands. You would flinch anytime he broke a little too hard. Always pushing on your imaginary brake.

“Ok, now put the car in drive. Make sure you keep your foot on the brake.” You began, instructing Parker how to drive.

You thought it be best if Tom taught Rosie and you taught Parker how to drive. You didn’t need twice the amount of heart attacks. “Ok, what next?” Parker asked after shifting from park gear to drive gear. Or so he thought.

“Give it a little gas now.” “Ok….” Parker barely touched the accelerator and the car shot backwards.

“PARKER! AAAAHHHHH!” You screamed as he lost control of the car. He slammed so hard on the brake, sending you flying into the dashboard. Your head knocked into the front, instantly creating a splitting headache.

“Oh, mom are you okay?” Parker questioned, preparing himself for your outburst.

“No, switch seats I’m driving home. That’s enough for today. The problem was you were in reverse and you hit the brake way too hard.” You explained with a calm voice, inside you were seething with anger. Pressing your hand to your head to try and subside your head.

“How did I know R stood for reverse, it could have been the R in drive?” Parker mocked sarcastically. “Honey, I love you but your dad is going to teach you from now on.”

You drove home safely and immediately went to the kitchen for an ice pack. Your head was throbbing. Tom greeted you, he was reading in the living room.

“How did the first lesson go?” Tom asked, noticing the scowl with adorned your face.

“Why don’t you ask Parker?” You snapped, pressing the cool ice pack to the soon to be bump on your head.

“Ok.… Parker any idea what your mom is talking about?” Tom inquired, knowing to not press you with anymore questions.

“I may have gone a little too fast and slammed on the brake,” Parker mumbled

“There’s more to that story,” you barked. Of course Parker was leaving the part of going in reverse instead of drive.

“I may have picked the wrong gear…” Parker divulged.

“HE WAS IN REVERSE!! NOT DRIVE!!” You shouted.

“Oh—“ Tom started to say but was cut off by you again.

“And then when he braked, he stopped so hard my head hit the dashboard.” You explaining, throwing your hands up in fury to point at your head. Tom started to chuckle. He tried to suppress a laugh but you were not having it.

“Are you laughing?” You thundered.

“Umm… no.” Tom’s entire expression totally changed as he saw the daggers you were shooting him.

“Tom, it’s not funny. Our son doesn’t know the difference between drive and reverse.”

“Guys, I’m still right here.” Parker chimed in as you spoke of him as if he wasn’t in the room.

“SAY SOMETHING!” You snapped at Tom’s defeating silence.

“Parker be more careful next time.” Tom explained to Parker.

“That’s it? Seriously?… Next time, you drive with him and you will feel my frustration and pain.” You sighed, giving up on this fight.

Life was so much simpler then, you were just trying to raise two wonderful kids. Helping them along the path of life, but there are always detours. You never expected life to have this many bumps. You especially didn’t expect your son to not live a full life. One full of wonder and joy.

Tom had his own way of mourning. He began to relish in his kills, channeling all his emotion into running the mob. Spending night after night bashing in skulls. Coming home with blood drenched clothes.

You understood everyone worked through their grief differently but his way seemed unhealthy. Tom had a few quarrels with anyone associated with the Wilson mob. He blamed them for the death of Parker.

Tom was currently, in his warehouse torturing some poor sap who was a well known capo of the Wilsons. “Tom, give it up. He’s not going to talk,” Haz told Tom as the continued to torture one of Wilson’s soldiers in front of him.

Carter had died along with Parker in the fire and Tom didn’t really know who the new leader was. All he knew is that he still wanted revenge.

“He’s right, you should just kill me. I know to keep my mouth shut unlike your dead son,” the soldier barked, warranting a swift strike to the jaw.

“Don’t you ever fucking mention him again. Your leader killed him. I should do the same to you to receive a smidge of compensation,” Tom snarled as he wrapped his hands around his throat, cutting off his airway completely.

“Tom, come on. He’s not worth it. Let him go,” Haz pleaded as the man started to turn blue.

“Haz, I can’t. How can I let him walk free, when he is the reason Parker is dead?” Tom explained, loosening his hands.

“That was Carter, not some menial soldier. He probably has a family like you,” Harrison talked Tom down.

“You’re free to go,” Haz concluded as he untied the poor man in front of them. He bolted for the door as quick as possible.

“Haz, I can’t do this. I need Parker here. He was supposed to be doing this. Not me… I feels unreal how much I miss him,” Tom cried.

“I know. We all miss him.”

“I couldn’t even protect my own son. Do you get that? And this can’t be the end. I can’t just move on, knowing I’m supposed to bury him tomorrow,” Tom swore.

“Tom, it will get better,” Harrison consoled him.

“How? I can’t just have an open ended statement. I need a solution. Something to fix this ache in my heart. How can I make this pain go away?” Tom pleaded.

“Tom, there is no answer. You just have to try and work through your grief and eventually move forward.”

“You know, Parker asked me the same thing right after Charlotte died. He needed the pain of her death to be lifted from his shoulders. I told him he needed time, but I lied. I knew he could never move on. That this would stick with him for years to come. That’s how I feel right now. There is no remedy except trying to make those bastards pay. Can you let me do that?” Tom exclaimed.

“Tom, I… yes, I can. Only because I know that is what you need right now. Someone to have your back. And I promise I always will.” Harrison tried to comfort his grieving friend but it was hard. Hard to explain to Tom that it only seemed like his world was ending.

That night Tom came into your shared room looking half dead. He had black eye and bruises that littered all over his body. From that moment you knew you both couldn’t keep living like this. You couldn’t keep shoving down your feelings and refusing to face the world, same with Tom but instead of shutting people out the was instigating fights left and right.

“Tom, I need to talk to you,” you sighed as Tom entered the room

“Yes, baby. Anything. I’m just happy to hear your voice,” Tom replied, surprised you were speaking to him. This was his first verbal conversation with you in days.

“We need to make a change, we can’t keep living like this. It isn’t healthy,” you began but was faced with a heart broken Tom.

“Y/N, don’t say that please,” Tom pleaded.

“Tom, we aren’t moving forward. We’re stuck.”

“No, Y/N we can move on from this. Please don’t leave me.”

“What? Tom, I would never. I need you more than you need me,” you questioned.

“Seriously doubt that. Baby please don’t scare me like that again. If I don’t have you. I don’t have anything,” Tom whispered as he came to your side, wrapping his arms around you.

“Tom, you’ll always have me. But what I was meaning to talk about is, I think you need to step away from the mob for a while. You aren’t dealing with losing Parker healthily. Killing people for sport doesn’t help process your pain.” You said, trying to fight back the tears.

“Y/N, I’m not ready to accept it. He can’t be gone. Our son can’t be gone,” Tom cried out.

“Tom, I’ve been feeling the same way. Instead of working through our grief together, we’ve been fighting our own battles and it is doing more damage than good. I’m drowning here, I need you. I need you next to my side to help me through this because I wake up most mornings and have thoughts that I should never think about. Like I don’t want to live this life anymore or live at all.”

“Love, I didn’t know. Y/N, I don’t ever want you feeling that way.”

“I know but I don’t want to feel this way either. We need to get away. Eventually far from the mob, maybe travel like you always wanted to,” you sniffled, wiping away tears.

“Y/N, you know I want that but, I can’t just leave. Our life is here,” Tom explained.

“I’m not saying now. But I can’t live out my days in this house, all I see is him and everything that we’ve lost. I can’t do it anymore. It’s killing me. Don’t you see that? I need to know that we will have our happy ending somewhere other than here. Once Rosie has graduated. In three years, we leave. Please give me that, you pleaded.

“Y/N, I promise. In 3 years we can start our happily ever after.” Tom agreed. You finally had a date in mind. You needed to find happiness somewhere else that wasn’t tainted with Parker’s memory.

Everyone was suffering, Rosie however was very good at hiding it. She was the rock when Parker passed. She knew if the roles were reversed, Parker would be there for everyone.

She threw herself in the mob and other aspects, refusing to let herself break down like the rest of her family. She was mostly consoling Henry. Henry had a hard time adjusting to life without his best friend. He tried to be strong for Rosie but nights she would find him crying himself to sleep.

“Are you coming to bed?” Rosie asked as Henry was held up in living room.

“I don’t think so just yet, I have to finish this,” Henry sighed in frustration, while lounging on the couch.

“What is it?” Rosie asked, coming over to snuggle with him.

“Parker’s eulogy. Did you finish your’s?”

“Umm, yeah I did.” Rosie responded, in reality she hadn’t even thought about it. Planning on making it up as she went tomorrow.

“It’s just killing me. To actually think of him as gone, especially because of tomorrow. I’m not ready to say goodbye,” Henry cried, trying to fight back tears.

“I know. I miss him too,” Rosie responded. Henry started breaking into a fit of sobs and Rosie moved to comfort him. “It’s okay, I’m here.”

“Why are you not sadder? I haven’t once seen you break down, like everyone else,” Henry sniffled.

“I don’t know, maybe I just went through the stages of grief quicker. I’ve already accepted it.”

“Ok well, glad you aren’t as sad as me. Then we would have two blubbering messes. I know this probably a huge turn off,” Henry muttered, stopping to blow his nose. She chuckled in response but Rosie knew something was off. She shed a few tears looking at the building blazing that night but she hadn’t cried since.

Quickly changing the subject to not seem like a heartless wrench she asked. “What are you writing about? Can I have a sneak peek?”

“That’s the hard part, I was trying to think of a story about Parker and I’s friendship but I keep coming up blank. Either he wasn’t actually my best friend or I’ve just repressed all memories about him.”

“Oh baby—,“

“It’s ok. I’m okay.… I’m sorry Roo, but could you help me?”

“Of course, what do you have so far?” “I have the title “Parker’s eulogy,” and that’s it,” Henry said, reading off the words written on the paper he had been staring at for an hour.

“Oh okay, well. Maybe you should talk about a funny story between the two of you.”

“Ok, I have one. Once upon a time…”

“Henry, you can’t start a eulogy with once upon a time.”

“You didn’t let me finish, once upon a time I met this boy and he had the most adorable, and at the same time, beautiful sister. She is so perfect in so many ways. I grew hopelessly in love with her. To this day I still am.”

“Aww, as much as I love that story it barely mentions Parker.”

“Roo, it’s too hard. I can’t sit here and reminisce all the times we spent together. I can’t write down stories that I’ve already lived. I can’t tell them to others and start referring to him as a ‘was’ and not a ‘is’. I’m not capable of telling the story of how one year where both our families went skiing, Parker and I snuck on a black diamond slope without permission and both ended up with a broken leg. Or the story of how I knew Parker and I would be best friends forever, I shouldn’t be the only one telling it, he should be here too. It’s not fair. Why could’ve it been me?”

“Henry, don’t say that. I don’t know what I’d do without you. But that seems like a good anecdote, write about that.”

“Rosie, you don’t get it. I can’t, I physically can’t do it… I’m sorry but I don’t understand why you aren’t sad. It’s weird. My best friend is dead and the weird part is that HE WAS YOUR BROTHER and you don’t even seem the least bit bothered by it,” Henry thundered, his sad voice morphing into an accusatory one. “Sorry, I was just trying to help…. I’ll see you tomorrow, night.” Rosie finished quickly excusing herself without so much as a goodnight kiss. She knew Henry was going through something but he didn’t have to take it out on her. She quickly made her way to bed and waited for the next day to come.

The day no one was actually prepared for.

The day of Parker’s funeral. Everyone’s final goodbye to your son.

Everyone managed to dress appropriately, in all black to symbolize your mourning. The day however was rather beautiful, a bright blue streaked across ever corner of the sky. Not a single cloud in sight, which was near impossible thing in London. Parker would’ve loved a day like this. For one he wouldn’t be at a funeral, especially not his own. He would be at the beach or going for a bike ride under the gorgeous sun.

The weather kind of taunted you. How dare the day be beautiful the day you bury your son. You knew it was silly but it felt like a cosmic joke of some sorts.

People started gathering at the cemetery. Nikki, Dom, Harry, Sam and Paddy were already there to help you and everyone else get through that day.

Nikki was mostly concerned with helping Rosie. She knew you had been a little checked out lately, no fault of your own, you were grieving. Nikki just wanted to make sure Rosie was dealing with her emotions, not shoving them aside.

“Rosie, I understand if the eulogy will be too hard. I can read it for you,” Nikki offered, catching a glance of Rosie going over he eulogy underneath a tree. “No, it’s ok. I should be the one to do it,” Rosie exclaimed.

“Parker would understand. All your emotions couldn’t be more valid. Have you allowed yourself to cry over him yet?” “Don’t worry I did. Odd question though, thought you’d be wanting me to be strong. I have been for everyone else.” “Rosie, you don’t have to with me. I’m here for you, flower.”

“I’m fine grandma, I should check on mom.”

“It’s okay, I’ll send Harry,” Nikki concluded, grabbing her phone to shoot Harry a text.

“Mom, I gonna get Y/N to eat something” Harry said, calling out to Nikki.

“Really, how?” “I came prepared. Granted it is only chocolate but baby steps. How’s Rosie? Is she freaking out about the eulogy?”

“She says she can handle it. I believe her. I just don’t know where that girl got all her strength. Certainly not from us.”

“I have a clue…” Harry explained, his eyes wandering to you sitting in the front row.

“Come on, the proceedings are about to start.” Nikki said, pulling her son to meet everyone else, atop the small hill.

The person officiating the ceremony was standing behind a chestnut colored casket, about to be lowered into the ground. There were 3 chairs, for you, Tom, and Rosie. Everyone else stood as they witnessed Parker be lowered into his final resting place.

Tears manage to fall throughout the entire day, but they came more frequently as Rosie stood up to deliver her eulogy. Rosie somberly walked near the casket, passing the dozens of roses on top. She was clutching to her note cards, her guideline to the hardest goodbye ever.

“My brother was the greatest person I ever knew. He had already dealt with so much loss, it is unfair that we are gathered here today to mourn him. I’ve been trying to think of what to say, maybe an amusing anecdote or embarrassing story. Maybe one where he demonstrated bravery. But I think I’ll just say what all of us having been thinking. It feels unreal that he is gone. He was my twin and I can honestly say not having him beside me, feels like a piece of me is missing.” Rosie began, fighting back the urge to cry.

“He would always manage to bring a smile to my face even the darkest of times. I’ve celebrated every birthday with him, every school event, my entire life with him. We were supposed to be the same age till the end of time together. I miss him more than I can bare but we have a chance to honor him and not mourn, it is what he would have wanted. My brother was always there for me, especially at my weakest. From carrying me into the house after I fell on my tricycle and skinned my knee to comforting me with cupcakes and ice cream after a break up. We all need that person in our lives. And Parker was my anchor, my savior and my best friend. If you have that person now, please give them a reminder of how much you love them. Parker and I both know I should I’ve said more often, he the same. I’m sorry P. And with this flower, I finally say goodbye to my guide post, my better half, my brother. We will always miss you.” Rosie finished and quickly wiped the tears that had fallen with the back of her hand.

She glanced over at you, bailing into Tom’s shoulder. Her words moved you to a whole other level of grief. This whole time you had been grieving for yourself. It’s not selfish, but you realized just how bad everyone else was hurting.

After the funeral, everyone made it back to the manor for the reception. Hors d’oeuvres made their way around to guests, conveniently managing to skip you. Harry was still getting on your nerves, hoping you’d eat something.

Harry would constantly bring food beneath your nose, waving an assortment of healthy snacks and candy in front of your face. He was determined to get you to eat something even if chocolate melted in his suit pockets.

“Hey, Y/N/N. How are you holding up?” Harry asked, finding you staring blankly into space. “I’ve definitely been better,” you responded, chuckling at your current state.

“Y/N, can you please eat something?” Harry asked, shoved food in your face. “I’m fine, thank you though,” you blatantly stated, probably for the tenth time.

“Come on, I have your favorite,” Harry smirked. “You have MnM’s?” you quipped, your ears perking up.

“Yes…”

“Ok give them to me.” You nearly lunged to grab the bag from his hands. In truth you had been starving yourself, you were hungry but couldn’t find the will to eat. Sweets were sure better than the fancy finger food your cook was serving.

Everyone else seemed to be within their own world. Tom had immediately gone back to talking shop, more like who are we gonna kill next week. People seemed to disappear, one in particular, Rosie. You asked Henry, to try and find her. He scoured the house in search of her and eventually found her in Parker’s room. For days the door had been locked, no one wanted to confront the reality of his bed not being slept in or his clothes not worn. It would reaffirm that he is gone and it was going to take a long time to heal.

“Rosie? You in here?” Henry whispered, knocking softly on the door. It creaked opener evening a distraught Rosie, crying on her bed.

Tears streamed down her face as she croaked out, “Hi.”

“Oh, Rosie,” Henry consoled as he moved to embrace her. She broke into a fit of sobs.

“He’s gone. He said he was right behind me,” Rosie looked up, with puffy red eyes.

“Shhh, it’s ok. I’m here,” Henry said, moving to bring her in his arms.

“I should’ve never left him behind. I keep blaming myself. If I never left him, he would still be here.”

“Roo, baby. You can’t do that.”

“I know, I know but I can’t do this. I’m not ready for him to be gone,” Rosie cried, into Henry’s suit. Tears never bothered to stop coming. She completely broke with him, all the pain and grief she had been hiding was now in the spotlight. Rosie wasn’t ready for a goodbye, none of you were.

Everyone eventually came to the same conclusion, that all the scars in your heart will heal with time. Even though the sadness never fades, you learn to grow with it.

Guns, Glamour and Goodfellas Masterlist

Taglist: @dummiesshort @thenoddingbunny-blog @adriannauni @allthisfortommy @bi-lmg @quaksonhehe @housepartyprotocol

[kisskissbanggang]

Death Warmed Up

[<15Min Read/~4K Words - Coffee Shop Au - Felix x Neutral Death!Reader - Fluff, Minor Angst - Dogs, Death, Coffee]

[Originally slated for the skzwriternet Cozy Collab, but here it is! Hope you enjoy.]

Nets: @skzwriternet​ @kwritersworld​

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You stared at the assignment you had found on your desk. This was late… by two years?

The notion was fully ludicrous. Even with a file like this, there was no way that it could reasonably have been delayed by two whole years. Then again, the idea of getting saddled with an interesting case intrigued you. It sort of felt fancy — important, even — to see this in your inbox when you sat at your desk. You flicked through the file again. Felix Lee, 21 years old: living on Borrowed Time since he was 19.

You hadn’t been an Arbiter very long, and you mulled over just how little Borrowed Time you’d really seen since your appointment. There was the tiny old grandmother — Jane, you thought her name was — a matriarch of her household and a staple of her community, but even then her Arbiter, Bill, could only find her a year from scraping together everything he could. He had told you all that when he did finally meet her at the end, he was in tears along with all her family, and she was the only one smiling. The fact that this kid could be afforded two years was a feat in and of itself, to a point that you were morbidly curious who the previous Arbiters were. The most recent was Jisung, a surprising name to find. Jisung was nice, he liked to maintain how he looked when he died in the mid-nineties, nose ring and flannel and all… and he currently worked as a first-level Arbiter, watching day-to-day activities between humans and the world around them. When you got transferred into the department you’d had no idea that he used to be up on this level. The previous Arbiter’s name was Chan: a name you didn’t recognize and had never heard around the office. Whatever had happened, you didn’t want to hear it. You didn’t want to get distracted by excuses. You needed to see for yourself.

◇─◇──◇──🍂──◇──◇─◇

It was a surprisingly balmy autumn afternoon when you finally found the cafe. Even with all the extra instincts and wherewithal you were afforded by your position, you still had to search around for the little coffee bar, a humble cubby hidden away in an alley off a side street in the bustling city. Some trees lined the sidewalk outside and the orange leaves managed to drift on by, and there was a young man sweeping them off the stoop of the cafe before he turned to go back inside. You opened your portfolio and pulled out your file again. You examined it closely. Could that have been him? The guy now cleaning up behind the bar? There was no way that was him. You stepped closer down the alley.

Thankfully, even if the young man in the window did look up, he wouldn’t see you in this plane you were currently occupying. Your body was only as real as your conscious willed it considering you were already dead, and right now you were perfectly content watching the barista bustling about behind the counter. A little old man with smart half-moon glasses waved from where he sat in his cracked leather armchair by a tall bookshelf, getting his attention.

“Felix, dear, could you top me off?”

Well, there, then. This was the guy.

He didn’t seem so special.

Felix didn’t look like his picture. That was your first hint. The photo was always a snapshot of the client at the time the referral was made to Arbitration, and he looked much worse for wear a couple years ago, laying in a hospital bed and hooked up to a spiderweb of tubes. Here, now, Felix stood tall and healthy, slim but fit under his apron, a modest but present definition in his arms showing through the rolled sleeves of his shirt as he set about making a new drink for the tottering old man. A spray of freckles adorned his dainty nose and rested among the golden glow of his cheeks, and he even had a little satisfied smile curling at his lip as he got the foam just right on the old man’s coffee.

You still didn’t see what all the fuss was about.

A dog ran up to Felix behind the counter, a panting golden retriever asking for pats, and your heart begrudgingly melted. In fact, there were even more dogs you hadn’t noticed. A small scotty rested at the feet of the old man. A tiny chihuahua slept in a basket on the counter that barely roused as Felix stepped over to add the drink to the man’s tab. A sleek sheepdog sat up from behind the counter to let him by, and a basset hound raised its head from where it sat in another chair when Felix set the warm cup on a small table by his elderly customer. Felix pet the dogs in a round and wiped up a string of drool from the basset with the corner of his apron before he returned to the counter and washed his hands.

Fine, so Felix was good with dogs.

But being good with dogs didn’t automatically mean you were entitled to Borrowed Time.

◇─◇──◇──🍂──◇──◇─◇

You returned with gusto the next day, ready to confront this supposedly difficult client. Your getup was simple, fully materialized now and dressed as a package courier. This form was common when working on this plane, even popular with other people in your department like Jisung, the previous Arbiter, who actually did use to deliver packages back before he died. It made sense in getting a feel for who a client really was. This was a blue collar worker that people were used to seeing and seeing through, and could really show who a person could be, given the right situation. And you really wanted to see who Felix could be.

You strolled into the cafe, large box in hand with a clipboard sitting on top and a pen tucked behind your ear. Felix perked up when you let it thunk onto the counter, the weight taking care of the poignancy.

“Delivery,” you boredly greeted. “Can you sign for this?”

“Er,” Felix stared — at you, the box, and back at you, “what is it? I wasn’t expecting anything.”

You laughed out loud as you held out your pen to him. “I don’t know, I’m just delivering it. Can you sign for this, please?”

Felix bit at his lip before he grabbed the proffered pen and signed, and you looked amused as you stood and watched him slice open the box with a pair of scissors from under the counter. What surprised you was that this old trick — this misdelivered box of assorted mugs and pens — only made Felix laugh.

“I didn’t order these!”

“That’s too bad,” you shrugged sympathetically. Admittedly, his smooth and deep voice was pleasantly unexpected, catching you off guard. “They’re addressed here and you signed for them.”

Felix’s eyes widened as he plucked out a piece of paper. “There’s an invoice?! With a balance on it?!”

But he still only laughed. You were a bit stumped.

“I guess I’ll pay this before I return it,” Felix shrugged. “I’d hate for someone to get a late bill on a mistake like this.”

You were puzzled, to say the least, as you turned to leave, but then Felix stopped you.

“Hey!” He called. “I feel bad that you had to come all the way here just for this to not be mine. Can’t I at least get you a drink on the house? Do you like dogs?”

The most astounding thing of all was you felt yourself heat up at his offer. This was well and truly bizarre, but you needed to check this out as well. There had to be fine print. You should’ve looked closer at the file.

You dumbly nodded as Felix gladly directed you over to a seat at the bar by his register. When he asked what you liked and you added a dumb shrug to your list of unintended responses, he shrugged in return and said he’d love to surprise you, then. Felix ground some beans down to a dense powder, pressed it into a puck, and pulled a couple espresso shots. You found yourself intrigued, having never seen or paid any attention to someone doing this by hand before. He steamed a small pitcher of milk until a modest head of creamy foam sat on top and carefully poured it in the center of the shots. He proudly slid the cup over to you on a saucer.

“A flat white,” he humbly presented. You silently nodded your gratitude and tried it. This was utterly confounding. The same misdelivery stunt got a shoe thrown at you by a client a few years back. You had to put the cup down as soon as you tried a sip.

“Is everything alright?” Felix worriedly asked. The fluffy lab originally sleeping on the rug in the center of the cafe got up to check on you, his wet nose leaving a slight print on your uniform pants.

“Er, yeah,” you gulped down the hot drink on your lips, “this is just really good. Are you sure I can’t pay you?”

Felix raised a hand to deny you. “Wouldn’t dream of accepting it. I’m sure you’ve been working hard all day anyway.”

“Sure have,” you stiffly lied. “Well, I can at least tip you.”

You conjured a wallet with a sizable bill inside, more than enough to cover the coffee as you quickly downed the modestly sized beverage. Felix beamed as you waved goodbye.

Fine.

So Felix was nice. So Felix was really nice. Felix was really nice, and kind, and he made good coffee.

But you’d have to try anyway. There was something in him that could convince you that he wasn’t 100% good, even though that shouldn’t have been a reason from the beginning.

◇─◇──◇──🍂──◇──◇─◇

You returned two nights later, but you didn’t enter the small side street. Instead, you paced in front of your parked bike out on the sidewalk, over and over again, working up the nerve. After a while, though, you knew it was time. You would goad Felix into dropping the act, into showing who he really was under all the sugar and sunshine. After making sure the sizeable package was sitting precariously on your handlebars to match the one on the back of your bike, you revved the little engine as Felix swept the stoop for the night. You barreled down the street, apparently unable to see much in front of you beyond the shoddy headlight. This was fine. This was easy. You’d done this before, and a saint of an old schoolteacher beat the snot out of you with their cane for it a while back. Felix noticed you at the last second, eyes widening comically as you reflexively honked.

You couldn’t do it.

Your finger barely squeezed the brake, but the front axle jackknifed and sent you ass over elbows onto the pavement.

Everything went white for a second and you definitely did not miss being alive in this moment, because this invariably sucked. And now Felix was there.

“It’s you!” Felix gasped and immediately offered you a hand up. “You scared the daylights out of me!”

“Uh,” you stammered and groaned, “I can say the same.” You could not wait to leave this plane and not feel the pain radiating in your hip and back. But right now, Felix was already pulling you into the cafe and fretting.

“Are you in a rush? You should at least sit down a moment.”

You sighed and let Felix seat you in a comfy chair by a heater in the small cafe, only lit by warm lamps at this time of night. The basset hound watching from a basket on the low windowsill came to sit at your feet as Felix hurriedly set about making you a hot cup of tea. He rushed over, light on his feet and pushing the warm mug into your hands. You nearly spat as you looked closer at the ceramic cup. “Is this—?”

“From that box you brought me the other day? Sure is.” Felix let the force of his belly laugh carry him into a chair beside you. “The funniest thing, really. I tried calling the phone number on that invoice and only got busy tones, and I tried looking up the business and only found dead websites. I figured I could always use pens and mugs, so now I have a supply and a funny story.”

You could crumple into dust, honestly. You set the mug on the little table by your chair, albeit a tad roughly. “I’m so sorry,” you shook your head, “but what is your deal? You’re literally the happiest person I ever met.”

Felix’s eyes pointed sharp into you. There it was.

But he wasn’t angry. He seemed embarrassed.

“Well,” he sighed, even still attempting to maintain his persistent smile, “it’s a long and tired story. I was really sick a couple years ago and I pulled through when no one thought I could.”

“I’m sorry—” you meekly interjected, but it was too late. The shine in Felix’s eye finally dulled, if only a little. You’d cracked him.

“It’s fine,” Felix reassured you. He gently patted your knee before he got back up to his feet. “You go ahead and enjoy your tea. I’m just glad you’re okay.”

“Of course, yeah,” you babbled as you got up and followed him anyhow, “I’m just glad I didn’t hit you.” You set the mug on the bar and sat down as he walked behind the register. The chihuahua in his basket drowsily got up and walked into your hand for pets.

“I was going to say the same,” Felix nodded tiredly with a worn smile. “It’s happened before. I guess I should put some lights up outside. A cute delivery boy almost ran me over with his bike about a year ago, too.”

“Delivery boy?” You asked starkly. Felix caught your look before falling right back into stride. His grin seemed to get its warmth back.

“Yeah,” he nodded amusedly. “He had an adorable nose ring, I remember I was terrified I almost ripped it out when he helped me up.”

Felix looked confused at the very least as you choked on your tea.

“I’m sorry,” you sputtered out. “You know I — it’s weird that — I just remembered I need to be somewhere. Thank you again, for everything.�� You dug out entirely too much money for the tea and clapped it down onto the counter before grabbing your things and sprinting out the door.

◇─◇──◇──🍂──◇──◇─◇

Jisung looked caught as you slapped Felix’s file on his desk. “Hi,” he squeaked as you towered over him.

“What happened when you tried to crack him?”

The young Arbiter let his head drop back with a hard sigh. “You got the file? I knew he couldn’t last long.”

“You only gave him another year, you had to know this was coming.”

“He was just so—? He’s so nice, and genuine, and warm?” Jisung blathered on as he sat back up and flipped through the file. “He was never the same since what Chan did. He was the most amazing turnaround I’d ever seen.”

“So you gave him a year—“

“I didn’t.” Jisung shook his head. “Look closer at the file. I put him back in the queue for Reassessment.”

“What do you mean you—“

“Look,” Jisung insisted. He grabbed your sleeve and dragged you down the hall. “I put him back in Reassessment and was lucky to only get demoted. After what Chan did, I couldn’t bring myself to do more.”

“What are you showing me?”

“Here.”

Jisung shook out his hands and you found yourself standing beside him in a graveyard. This was a pleasant enough place to end up. The grass was neatly trimmed and there were trees and benches to sit on. The orange and red leaves scattered around looked like confetti, a graceful celebration at the end of life. Jisung stood between two headstones.

“I made the mistake of looking at what Chan did, except Felix’s family wasn’t gone yet when he had the file. They were on their way out, though. He saw that they were leaving soon, and Felix would be alone with his grandfather at his cafe. His grandfather would be all alone after losing all of them, and that would be after everything Felix would go through, getting sick and getting better and learning to live again. Chan saw a horrible ending to an awful story and put a stop to it, and he got banished for it.”

“That’s not fair though,” you shook your head, “no matter how much you or he wanted it.”

“But look at him!” Jisung reeled. “That decision made one of the brightest humans I’ve ever seen. When I put him back to Reassessment, I just spent time around him before I was called back. I suggest you do the same, no matter what you choose. I hope this helped.”

Jisung haughtily folded his arms before he vanished. You finally looked more closely at the headstones. Those years were much too close together. Your heart hung low in your gut.

◇─◇──◇──🍂──◇──◇─◇

Felix grinned wide when you returned to the cafe. He immediately set about making you a drink.

“I was wondering when I’d see you again.”

“You were?”

This was feeling familiar, like you were home or at a friend’s house, while you sat yourself in an easy chair and let the panting sheepdog sit between your feet so you could scratch under her chin.

“Yeah!” Felix brightly called over. “Because you asked why I’m like this, I sort of only gave you half an answer.”

“I’m sorry again,” you lamented.

“It’s fine,” Felix said adamantly as he set a warm mug in your hands. He gestured grandly before sitting down. “A latte. Now, I only gave you half an answer. The fact of the matter is that I spent a good while tied to tubes and machines with nothing to do and no choice in the matter. Now, all this time later, I’m just happy to be here, because I know the day after could be any day now.”

“The day after?”

Felix nodded. “When you come away from something like that, later it just feels like a day. One big day, or week, or whatever is tangible, but it definitely wasn’t forever. It feels like one big day to me. This, in the grand scheme of things, is the day after that, but the day after this, when everything actually does end— I’m expecting it. And I’m not scared, but I’m going to be enjoy my time here as much as I can.”

“You’re not scared?”

“Not anymore,” Felix shook his head in determination. “I had to cope with my own loss like everyone else was getting ready to cope with losing me. I didn’t get to have that luxury of not expecting it anymore, because I know what it looks like and I know what’s coming. To do anything else would be a disservice, so I’d rather walk into it with a clear mind and a full life.”

You thought of Bill and Jane, how she was the only one not crying at the end. It was hard to place exactly how you felt, sipping your coffee made with loving hands in this small cafe full of an inordinate amount of golden afternoon sunlight for being so hidden away from the main road. Felix fit here — cosmically, almost, in the least dramatic way you could muster.

“I’m really glad you feel that way,” you said, hoping that the added sincerity hidden behind the sentiment was felt.

The shimmer in Felix’s eyes told you it was. “I am, too. And I’m especially glad you’re back, because I like seeing you around. I don’t think I’ve given away this many free drinks since that delivery boy last year.”

“I like seeing you, too, Felix.” You finally admitted it, and it was true, even more so as Felix’s shining smile grew even more. You did like seeing Felix, and you would continue to see Felix as much as you were able, all the way to the end.

[dickspeightjrs]

Money and Misunderstandings (au / 4k words / lawyer!cas / kindergarten teacher!dean)

Prompt 10 from my ‘30 Destiel Prompts’ for @destielfactory

ao3 link

Dean pulled at his tie again. He could swear they were designed originally as a way to torture people to death.

Sam turned to see his brother fiddling with the knot. “Dude, stop it. The party has barely started, you can’t take your tie off yet.” He slapped Dean’s hand away. 

Dean grumbled. “Fine. I’ll keep it on. But I ain’t gonna act like I’m happy about it.” 

Sam just rolled his eyes in response.

It was looks like the bitch-face Sam was giving him that made Dean almost regret being proud as hell of his kid brother. 

Sam had just graduated from law school and managed to get an internship at the extremely prestigious Novak & Sons. Dean knew that the company must be a big deal because it had recently been splashed across the news. 

Apparently, the super old guy who owned the law firm had bitten the dust and left the whole thing to one of his sons. Dean couldn’t see the big deal about it all but Sam had been glued to the news the week that it all went down. 

Regardless, Sam was now an intern (though an unpaid one so Dean still helped him out with rent and bills), which meant he got invited to swanky parties thrown by the firm any time they sealed a major deal with another supposedly big deal client. 

Sam might be able to fit in with these snooty bastards, but Dean couldn’t. This wasn’t even a damn party. Just a bunch of rich people standing around chortling at each other and having conversations about the newest yacht they’d bought. 

Dean was interrupted in his grumblings by a guy walking up to him and Sam. 

“Winchester, isn’t it?” The guy asked Sam, obnoxiously. 

Dean bristled. This guy didn’t even know Sam’s name. Douchebag. 

“Yes, sir, it’s Sam.” Sam stuck out his hand for the man to shake. The man accepted, giving it a sharp shake. 

Then he turned his hard gaze to Dean. 

“And who is this?” The man said with a subtle sneer. 

“Oh, this is my brother, Dean Winchester. Dean, this is my boss, Michael Novak.” Sam introduced them. 

Ah! The ultimate douchebag. 

Neither man offered a hand to shake. They’d sussed each other already. 

“And what is it you do Dean?” Because you certainly don’t belong here. 

“I’m a kindergarten teacher.” Dean said, proudly 

Michael’s face soured further (if that was even possible). 

“Don’t they say that teaching kindergarten is like glorified babysitting?” Michael chortled. 

Dean’s eyes narrowed. This guy was already skating on thin fucking ice. And that ice just cracked. 

“Listen here, asshole.” Dean pointed a finger at the suited bastard. He could see Sam cringe and look at the floor next to him. But nothing would stop him now. “My kids are awesome. I’m teaching them to be even more awesome adults when they’re older. I just hope none of them turn into jumped up douchebags like you.”

“Dean!” Sam despaired. 

“Sorry, Sam.” Dean mumbled. But he wasn’t sorry. Not really. He was only sorry that he’d embarrassed his brother. He would never apologise for defending his choice of career. 

Dean chanced a glance at Michael. If the dude was a cartoon, he’d probably have steam coming out of his ears right about now. 

“I’m going to the bar.” Dean murmured, leaving Sam to apologise on his brother’s behalf. 

Dean hoped there wouldn’t be consequences for Sam after his outburst. He just hated it when people looked down on other people for their jobs. Basic respect for others was something he prioritises with his kindergarteners. It was a shame that some adults couldn’t seem to grasp the concept. 

He walked through the crowd of guests like a storm cloud towards the bar. 

Luckily, it seemed most of the attendees were relying on the waiters for their drink orders meaning the bar was empty save for the bartender. Dean slumped onto one of the stools. 

“What’re you after, Brother?” The guy asked as he made his way over to Dean. 

“Whatever isn’t that fancy shit everyone else sees to be having.” 

The bartender, Benny his name tag read, laughed a deep, rich laugh. “I feel that. How’s a good, smooth whiskey sound?”

“Finally, someone talking my language.” Dean smiled. 

Benny passed him over a tumbler of gorgeous brown liquid. 

Dean lifted it in silent cheers and downed it in one go, sucking his lips at the sharp burn it sent down his throat. “Another one where that came from, dude.” Dean slid the glass across the bar top back towards Benny. 

“You sure, Brother?” Benny questioned. 

“Sure as shit. I gotta get through this night somehow.” Dean mumbled. 

“It can’t be that bad, can it?” A voice that wasn’t Benny’s (or Sam’s for that matter) appeared from Dean’s right. 

Dean turned his head to find a dude around his age looking back at him with distinctive blue eyes. 

The guy had on a suit and tie much like that other people in the room. But, the tie was loosened and curled backwards towards the end. His top button was undone and his trenchcoat that blanketed the whole outfit seemed as though it was barely hanging on to his shoulders. 

How come this guy could come dressed like that but Dean couldn't loosen the tie that had been strangling him for two hours already. (The dude looked like he’d just had seven minutes in heaven with someone in the cleaning cupboard for god’s sake!)

Dean was snapped out of his judgement of the guy in front of him by Benny placing a fresh glass of whiskey on the counter. The bartenders gave him a wink and looked slyly over to the trenchcoat guy still standing, leaning against the bar. 

What was Benny trying to say? 

Dean didn’t have long to think it over as the bartender moved away to collect dirty glasses at the other end of the bar, leaving Dean and the trenchcoat guy alone. 

“So,” Trenchcoat Guy continued, perching himself on the seat next to Dean, “what are you doing here if this evening is so torturous to you?” The words were said, not with bitter condescension like Michael might have asked, but, it seemed, with genuine interest. 

Alright, Dean could play ball. Plus, this guy was hot. Dean would be thinking of a flirtatious answer if he wasn’t conscious of embarrassing Sam again by hitting on someone who is probably one of his co-workers.

“I’m here with my brother, Sam.” Dean explained. “He’s just started as an intern here. Wouldn’t kill the bastards to pay him though, he works harder than any kid I know.” 

Dean winced. He has gotta stop insulting the people Sam works with or for. 

“And I take it, this isn’t your usual environment to socialise in?” Trenchcoat Guy enquired. 

Dean huffed a laugh. “You could say that. Turns out I don’t so much enjoy being looked down on for my job, no matter how much I might love my brother.” 

Trenchcoat Guy frowned. “What happened?”

“Some dude called Michael made a dick comment about me being a kindergarten teacher. Told him exactly what I thought about his opinion and embarrassed my brother in the process. So I sought refuge at the bar.” 

Blue eyes darkened. “That’s appalling! I’m sorry that happened.” Trenchcoat Guy placed an earnest but comforting hand on Dean’s. “Being a teacher is incredibly admirable. You’re helping to shape and guide future members of society.” He assured. “There’s nothing more noble than that. Definitely not a lawyer who seems to see the money before the client.” 

Where had this guy come from? He seemed a little weird and dorky but also genuine and caring. 

Dean shrugged off the compliment. Just because he wasn’t okay with people disrespecting his job, didn’t mean he was comfortable being showered with praise and kind words. 

Instead, Dean flagged down Benny and asked for a beer, looking to Trenchcoat Guy to silently ask if he’d like one too. Trenchcoat Guy nodded. 

The two men kept eye contact as they took the first sips of their beers. Dean’s eyes fell to the way the guy’s lips shaped around the lip of the bottle. He flicked his eyes up again to find the guy had seen the movement. He knew exactly what he was doing to Dean, if the way he slowly licked lingering droplets of beer from his bottom lip was anything to go by. 

Any other day, any other time and Dean would have jumped at the chance to, well, jump this guy. But, he wouldn't do that to Sam. 

Instead, he cursed the fates for sending him this awesome guy at exactly the wrong time. Taking another sip of his beer, he moved to get up from his seat. He’d better go find Sam and check he hadn’t ruined his brother’s position in the company. 

He was about to open his mouth to bid the beautiful stranger goodbye when the guy’s eyes left Dean’s and locked onto something over Dean’s shoulder. The blood seemed to drain from his face. Frantic blue eyes snapped back to Dean’s.

“Kiss me.”

“What?” Dean asked, confused at the turn this had taken. He could feel his resolve slipping. Sam’s reputation be damned. 

The guy didn’t answer. 

Suddenly, his hand was on Dean’s cheek and he was placing a deep kiss on Dean’s lips. 

Dean had no idea what was going on but his night had improved dramatically in the last three seconds so he definitely wasn’t going to complain. He placed a hand on the guy’s waist, pulling him in closer to his own body. 

After a few heated moments, the guy pulled away. Though Dean kept the hand on his waist so he couldn’t move far. He wasn’t letting him go any time soon, that was for sure. 

“I’m sorry.” Trenchcoat Guy panted, chest rising to gulp down air that he’d been deprived of. “My assbutt of an ex was coming towards us.” He tried to step back out of Dean’s embrace. 

But Dean held his grip firm. 

“No need to apologise, dude.” Dean assured. 

Looking into the guy’s eyes, feeling his moving chest against his own, Dean could feel his will power slipping. 

Screw it. 

Dean pressed his forehead against the other man’s. “Stop me if you don’t want this.” He whispered before he placed his lips over the other man’s.

The kiss was deepened instantly. By who Dean wasn’t sure but at this point, he really didn’t care. 

Dean allowed himself to be manhandled against the bar, never breaking the passionate connection he had with this wonderful stranger. 

As if the guy could read his mind he softened the kiss to whisper briefly against Dean’s lips. “I’m Castiel, by the way.”

Dean’s brain was so preoccupied that he could barely stutter out his own name in return. 

“Hmm.” Castiel hummed against Dean’s lips. “I don’t want to be presumptuous, Dean. But I’d very much like it if you took me home. Right now.” 

They broke apart and Dean looked into Castiel’s eyes. The calm blue from before had been replaced with seductive black. 

Yep. This was definitely happening. 

“Let’s go.” Dean grabbed Castiel’s hand to drag him towards the exit. 

But Castiel stopped him. 

“What about your brother?”

Shit. Trust his downstairs brain to throw logic out the window and forget about his brother. 

But he dreaded seeing the look of disappointment on Sam’s face when he told him where he was going. And who with. 

“Don’t worry, Brother.” Benny’s voice spoke up from the bar. “I’ll find him and let know you’ve gone home.” 

Dean shot Benny a grateful look. “Thanks, man.” He tried not to weirded out that Benny had seen what had just gone down. 

He once again grabbed Castiel’s hand and tugged him towards the nearest exit. 

Once outside, Dean hailed a taxi. He would have loved to have shown Castiel his beautiful 67 Impala but he’d had a couple of drinks and there was no way he was going to risk driving home. Plus, even without the drinks, he wasn’t sure he’d be able to keep his hands to himself long enough to get back to his. 

As soon as they made it through Dean’s front door, he sobered slightly. As respectful and understanding as Castiel had been earlier, he was clearly used to the finer things in life if he was at the firm party. Dean and Sam’s apartment was a far cry from that. 

“It’s not much…” Dean explained. 

Castiel turned from where he’d been doing a quick scan of the main room to lock eyes with Dean. “The only thing I’m concerned with right now is where your bed is.”

Dean could only point towards the corridor leading to his room. 

Castiel gave Dean a dark look and pulled him along by his tie. Maybe ties weren’t so bad after all. 

*  *  *

The next morning, Dean awoke to the feel of bare skin against his own. 

The body on top of his shifted and he could feel a rumble travel up through it. 

“Good morning, Dean.” Castiel hummed. 

“Mornin’, Sunshine.” Dean sighed, nuzzling into Castiel’s dark hair and placing a kiss against his temple. 

Dean was about to suggest breakfast when he sensed the stomping moose steps of Sam coming down the corridor outside his room. 

“I don’t care if you’re hungover, I’m shouting at-” Sam stormed into the room. But he was cut off by the sight in front of him.

Dean cringed. Benny obviously hadn’t told Sam everything when they’d left last night. 

“Oh my god! Mr Novak!” Sam snapped himself back to reality. 

Dean turned to look at Castiel. Mr Novak? Was Castiel one of the stuck up sons of bitches sitting on a heck ton of money and not giving any of it to hard working interns like Sam? 

“Hello, Samuel.” Castiel greeted, lifting himself to sit against the headboard. “You can call me Castiel. I feel as though we’ve moved past the normal professional relationship now.” 

“Okay, Castiel.” Sam was clearly still in shock. “I’m just going to leave now.” He cleared his throat awkwardly and then ducked out of the room, closing the door softly behind him. 

Dean turned again to Castiel. “Okay, what just happened?” He asked, completely confused as hell. 

Castiel placed a hand on Dean’s. “I’ll explain everything but I think you need to go and make sure your brother is okay.” 

Dean was unsure. He didn’t want to just leave Castiel in his bed alone. 

“Go, Dean. I’ll wait here for you.” Castiel said, sensing Dean’s apprehension. 

“Okay.” Dean submitted, quickly pecking Castiel on the lips before getting up from the bed, throwing on some boxers and leaving the room. 

It wasn't until he was closing the bedroom door behind him that Dean realised he’d just kissed Castiel goodbye like they were boyfriends or something. 

Way to go, Dean. Scare the dude off before anything had properly started. 

Anyway, one problem at a time, he thought as he rounded the corner to find Sam pacing the length of the living room. 

“So…” Dean began, awkwardly. 

“I can’t believe you, Dean.” Sam said, angrily. “Did you not think of my career at all? Of all the people to go home with at that party, you went home with my boss?” 

Hang on..

“Boss?” Dean asked, “I thought that Michael dude was your boss?!” Dean said, confused as hell. 

Sam ran his hands through his hair in a frustrated manner. “I’m an intern, Dean. Practically everyone in the damn company is my boss. And Castiel? He’s the boss.”

Dean paled. “What?”

Sam sighed. “He runs the whole damn thing! Didn’t you see the news a couple months ago? His dad died and left the whole firm solely to Castiel. It created a big stink because his brothers, including Michael Novak, didn’t get a look in. They’ve been contesting the will for months now.”

Dean slumped onto the couch. He couldn’t believe it. Castiel had lied to him? Well, maybe not lied, just didn’t tell the whole truth. 

Sam saw Dean's mood suddenly turn and frowned. “You really didn’t know?” 

Dean silently shook his head. 

“I’m sure he has his reasons for not saying anything.” Sam tried to reassure his brother. 

Dean waved it off. “Don’t worry about it.” He said. “Yeah, I really like the guy, but once he realises who he shacked up with, he’s not gonna hang around.” He shrugged, accepting the situation for what it was. 

There was no way someone like Castiel, with that amount of wealth and riches, would be interested when he understood that Dean was a grown man who still lived with his little because they couldn’t afford much else right now. 

“Why don’t you let him decide that for himself?” Sam asked, pulling Dean from his negative thoughts. “All I know is, I’ve only met Castiel a handful of times but he’s only one of the Novak brothers that has ever tried to even learn my name.” 

Dean was torn. This was such a big thing for Castiel to neglect to mention. 

“Man, I don’t know. This only started because he was hiding from an ex at the party.” Dean explained. “And now I say it out loud, it sounds like a lie. God, I’m so stupid.” He dropped his head into his hands. 

“Damnit, Dean!” Don’t you ever watch anything on TV other than Doctor Sexy?” 

Huh? Dean shot his brother a confused squint. 

Sam shook his head in exasperation. “Even before their dad dying and the inheritance fiasco, the Novak brothers have always been sort of minor celebrities - comes with the money I guess.” Sam explained. “All I know is that he did have what the media called a ‘messy break up’ with a guy who worked for the company. And he was definitely at the party last night.” 

Dean sighed. He didn’t know what to think. 

“Look, Dean. You clearly like this guy already. He’s literally in your room waiting for you. Go talk to him.” 

Dean nodded and stood up, taking a determined breath. 

Sam gave him a supportive pat on the back. 

Just before he left the room, Dean turned back to his brother. “Are we good?”

Sam smiled. “Yeah, man, we’re good.”

Dean nodded and left. 

When he re-entered his room, Castiel was still sitting in Dean’s bed, picking at a thread in the covers. He looked up at the sound of the door clicking shut. 

“How did it go?” Castiel asked, patting the space next to himself, silently asking Dean to join him again. 

Dean sat on the bed, but he didn’t get back under the covers next to Castiel. He still wasn’t sure what to do. “It’s okay. We smoothed everything out.” Dean nodded. “Found out some stuff about you though.”

Castiel nodded in understanding. 

“Why didn’t you tell me you were the boss? My brother’s boss?!” Dean asked, pleading for an explanation. 

“I wanted to come up to you. I’d already seen you from across the room earlier and when I finally gathered the courage to come up to you, you were complaining about my party and clearly had no idea who I was.” Castiel explained. 

Dean flushed. “Sorry about that.”

“Don’t be sorry, Dean.” Castiel reached over to take Dean’s hand in both of his. “It was refreshing. With everything that has been going on recently, it was nice to have a break from that. And then my ex-boyfriend was coming towards us. And, well, you know the rest…” Castiel trailed off. 

“The douchebag who everyone seems to know about except me.” Dean added. “He sounds like a son of a bitch.” 

Castiel hummed in agreement. “That’s an understatement.” He muttered. “I found out Bart was sleeping with someone else a few months ago and I ended it immediately.” Castiel paused at Dean’s whispered ‘bastard’. “However, when my father died, he tried crawling back. He was probably after my new wealth and position in the company. I, of course, rejected him. But, Bart is the kind of person who doesn’t take no for an answer.” 

Dean scowled. He may have only just found out the diner details, but he wouldn’t hesitate to punch that dick in the face if he ever saw him. 

Taking in Castiel’s downtrodden look, Dean sighed. “I understand all of that Cas. But you heard me last night. You run the show and you seem like a decent guy but how can you have hard working interns like Sam and not pay them a cent? While you sit on a literal throne of money?” 

Dean looked down at his lap. He wasn’t sure he was going to like whatever Castiel had to say. 

“Dean,” Castiel lifted Dean’s chin to make the man look at him, “I completely agree with everything you said. That’s one of the reasons my father left everything to me.” Castiel explained. “He knew I had new ideas for the company. He knew it was only a matter of time before he had to hand it over to his sons. So he left it all to me on the sole condition that I go ahead with the changes that I wanted to implement.” 

Dean let out a breath and smiled. Okay, this sounded good. “What, uh, kinda stuff are you changing?” 

“Firstly, we’re going to be taking on a lot more pro bono cases. We are sitting on a throne of money, as you say,” Dean blushed, “and it’s time we actually did something good with it.” 

Dean nodded. Now Castiel mentioned it, he remembered Sam saying something about that when he’d first joined Novak & Sons.

“And,” Castiel continued, “though it hasn’t been announced to the public or even the employees themselves, interns will be getting a competitive rate of pay. You’re right. They do work hard for us and they deserve to be properly credited for it.” 

Dean certainly hadn’t expected that. He’d expected Cas to say that it was out of his hands, or just simply that’s how things worked there. 

“Now, can you please say something? I’m worried I’ve ruined this before it could even begin.” Castiel asked, shyly.

Dean smiled softly. “As long as you don’t mind slumming it with someone like me, I only have one more question.” Castiel nodded. 

“Can I kiss you?”

Dean would give anything to never see that smile leave Cas’ face. 

Instead of answering, Castiel pulled Dean towards him by the shoulder. The smile didn’t leave his face as Dean pressed a long, sweet kiss to his lips. 

“I hope you’re ready,” Castiel said later after they’d parted for breath, “making out with the boss last night would have made quite a spectacle.” 

Dean made a noise of indifference just as Sam shouted from the living room. “Woah, dude! You’re on the news making out with Castiel!” 

“Told you.” Castiel said, triumphantly. 

Dean just laughed and pulled Castiel back in for another deep kiss. 

*  *  * 

They still had a few issues to iron out before they embarked on a relationship, but in the end those issues seemed like small bumps in the road and it was a smooth ride after that. 

Despite his brother’s relationship with the boss, Sam was treated no differently to anyone else. It was important to Castiel to make it clear that any achievements Sam had were entirely down to Sam himself and he had not been handed anything under family privileges. 

And Sam’s hard work paid off. Within a few years, Novak & Sons had another major overhaul and became Winchester & Novak. (Castiel’s brothers had had something to say about, but as he’d been doing for years until that point, he just ignored them.)

Though, it was only a few months after the changes that Dean asked Castiel how pissed off his brothers would be if it was changed again to Winchester & Winchester. Castiel had just laughed and let Dean place the ring on his finger. 

(Turns out, his brothers were extremely pissed off. Oh well.) 

-

A/N: I hope you enjoyed it Daria! It ended up being longer than I expected but I’m quite happy with how it turned out.

If you liked what you saw, REBLOG! and consider reserving a prompt from my ‘30 Destiel Prompts’ challenge, or just send me your own prompt you’d like me to fill!

-

TAGS: @eccentriccas @starrynightdeancas @credentiast @imbiowaresbitch @starclaire @cockleslovesdestiel @bend-me-shape-me @destielfactory @dea-stiel @wendeano @wingsandimpalas @aggressivedean @flowersforcas @chill-legilimens @pancakesofthelord @saltnhalo @caslikescoffeeandfreckles @assbuttboyfriends @jhoomwrites @breathingdestiel @simplymisha @thekingslover @aelysianmuse @2musiclover2

(let me know if you’d like to be added/removed from the tag list, we don’t have to be mutuals!)

[peaches-writes]

sun shower

description: you happen to be spending your training year in adjacent villages with a certain kim seungmin  member: seungmin genre: fluff, witch/wizard au (kiki’s delivery service, a little snow fairy sugar-inspired) word count: 4k note: ‘magical people’ just doesn’t sound awesome enough to be the official gender-neutral term i therefore declare that both the words witch & wizard are gender-neutral choose ur fighter ppl

Seungmin has always had a fascination with the heavens since he was a young boy. His mother specialized in potions but his father was an astronomer, inviting him to stargaze after potion lessons until he had to leave for his training as an independent wizard some 6 months ago. He never vocally said it to his parents but when they received a letter from him in the mail informing them that he has chosen to train in the quaint countrysides of Italy a month into his training, they correctly inferred that he wanted to be specialize in astrology. 

For this reason, he finds it bothersome, for a lack of a better word, whenever you, a neighboring witch, would conjure up clouds of rain until the early hours of the night. In your defense, it always happens unconsciously, most often when you’re frustrated because you couldn’t conjure up enough clouds when the sun is still out or when you untimely create clouds right as a storm passes over the countryside.

“Excuse me!” He called to you from the skies on his fifth night in the neighboring town. This was when you first met. You look up at him curiously, surprised at finding a fellow magical person. “Are you causing this?”

He gestures over the thin veils of clouds looming over the full moon. He could tell you were a witch by the runes you read to your root crops.

“Yes, why?”

“I study astrology, you see.” He shows you a familiar book, the standard guide to astrology—you knew because your own mother was an astrologer. “And I can’t really study if it’s too cloudy.”

“O-Oh, sorry.” You stand up from squatting next to your green sprouts, scratching the back of your neck. “It takes me a long time to make them disappear, you see. I swear I’m also working on them!”

“Well, it’s already late and I still have business to attend to later on so it’d be really helpful if you get your clouds out of the way quickly.” He points out, intimidating you a bit. 

Because of his dry and rather stern tone, you managed to clear out the sky faster than you’ve ever done at the time. Suffice to say, Seungmin was impressed.

“Thanks! I’m Seungmin, by the way.” “Y/N, nice to meet you and sorry again!” 

Now at present, you only have a month left until your training ends yet somehow you can’t seem to master the art of controlling the rain for sun showers, which frustrates Seungmin as much as it frustrates you. 

“Maybe you’re overthinking it. Have you tried relaxing?” In the few months you’ve spent being sort of neighbors, you know that Seungmin never means anything malicious, he simply has a sarcastic tone by default. 

“I am relaxed.” You insist, puffing out air that resembles smoke in the cold weather. It’s nearing the end of November and you can already feel the snow coming, signalling your impending departure. You try again, concentrating and thinking about how Seungmin’s watching you, “Oh hey, look, I did it!” 

To compromise over your clashing work schedules, on the 2nd month of Seungmin’s stay, the two of you came to an agreement that you alternate between your towns, so that Seungmin can monitor you practicing with the weather and make sure that he gets to see the night sky when you’re done. Undeniably, you’ve grown closer from helping each other out (and maybe you’ve even developed a small crush on the side, but you wouldn’t tell him that).

He sits behind you on your rooftop on this particular Sunday, reading a thick book on the movement of constellations, while you levitate over your vegetable garden, eyes trained to the cloudy sky that slowly clears. 

“Is this the last thing you need to accomplish?” He asks after a while, having decided after a while to halt reading and observe the sky. You’re halfway through clearing the sky, some hints of sunlight starting to peek through from the remaining clouds. Though he doesn’t show it, he’s proud (and a bit jealous) that you’re almost done with your training.  

Without sparing him a glance, you shake your head no. “I still need to perfect my own song to conjure up a sun showers.” You correct as a frown settles on your face. 

You control the weather with music. You use a flute for snow and sleet, a harp for the rain, a triangle for thunder and winds, and your own voice to call for the sun and clear skies. The problem with creating a sun shower is that you can’t come up with your own last verse—the one that is supposedly unique to every conjurer, according to your aunt who gave you the sheet music. 

“Maybe you need another instrument.” Seungmin suggests but you both know that if there was another instrument for sun showers, your aunt would tell you as a witch who controls the weather herself. “Or the music sheet’s wrong.” 

“If it’s wrong, then I would’ve conjured up something else entirely the last time I tried it.” You point out. The last time meaning just a few weeks ago when you tried out your latest revision and conjured up enough clouds but too much rain. “I’m just missing a few measures but my brain’s already too fried to come up with any!” 

“Can I see?” 

You impatiently hum in approval, finally turning around to briefly look at him and gesture over to your rucksack. “It’s in my bag, knock yourself out.” 

You have an idea of Seungmin’s musical ability. He tends to hum to himself while he’s busy with work, you’ve heard in the events you’ve stayed in his place longer to help him see the stars better, and he plays the piano well, especially when he was asked to in his town’s festival. You’ve wondered yourself before why he chose studying astrology over taking control of the weather until he mentioned his home life before going off on his own. 

“It does sound hard to complete, especially with what you already have.” He agrees with you after a while. At this point, you’ve managed to clear the skies of heavy rain clouds so you levitate towards him, sitting across from him after penetrating the shield he’s made for himself from the rain that’s passed. “But I think you’re getting there.” 

He hums the main melody under his breath, occasionally stopping to brainstorm ideas on what could possibly be missing on your sheet music. To his right, you lay down tiredly on your back, rucksack serving as a makeshift pillow, and turn your body to face him, listening intently to the little notes and comments he makes under his breath. “I just need a balance with the sun and the rain.” You sigh. “The sun is already enough, the rain’s just a little too much.” 

“Hm, sounds strangely poetic.” He points out with the same dry tone you’ve grown accustomed to, making you chuckle. “You going through something or what?”

“I don’t know if I’d call it that.” You then turn your body up towards the sky. Now that your clouds were gone, you then realize that the sky’s started turning pink and orange in sunset. “It’s just that, there are some things and people I’m unsure of, I guess.”

He wanted to ask you what, or rather, who exactly you were unsure of. You’re not exactly known for being a social butterfly but you’re not anti-social, either, but if bothered you so much, whatever or whoever you’re referring to must be someone incredibly special to you. 

“Hey, can I keep a copy of this?” He opts to ask instead, gaining your attention again. 

You nod. “You can take the music sheets, I have it memorized by heart already, anyway.” 

“If I can come up with something, I’ll let you know.” He carefully tucks your music sheet between the pages of his book. “You don’t have some kind of deadline, do you?” 

“No, it’s okay.” You smile before turning back to the incoming sunset. “Anyway, I’ve had enough of thinking about it for today, let’s just enjoy the sunset before you go back to studying! Ah, what a day.” 

Seungmin is evidently surprised, often you mind each other’s businesses and only talk when one needs help or when one is about to leave, but you missed such a rare expression across his face “Okay.” You only hear him say as he closes his book and lays down next to you, using his own messenger bag as a pillow. 

Later that night, Seungmin decides to study on your rooftop later than usual, and you hear him singing until you fell asleep.

In the following days, Seungmin kept on humming the final measures of your song along with experimental measures to try and fill in the missing gap. He sings it while gathering (or stealing, depends on who you ask) herbs from your garden, cleaning the room he rents above a dusty bookstore, and even while writing a cohesive prediction for someone in his side business. 

It would drive you crazy if only his voice isn’t that great. 

“You know, when your training ends, you should also try picking up at least one skill related to music.” You suggest to him a week later while pacing around in his room. You’re supposed to be outside but complained because of the intense heat you can’t seem to tone down. “I highly recommend singing for sunshine.” 

“But you do it better.” He’s making you a reading on this particular day since business is slow recently. “You sing and play well.”

Internally, the butterflies already present in your stomach multiply greatly. “So? Doesn’t mean you shouldn’t too?” You manage to counter while trying to recover. “I bet wherever you’re going after your training, they’ll have extraordinarily warmer sun.” 

He chuckles nervously. He’s more than halfway through his training already but he doesn’t want to think about that just yet (mostly because he finds it weird thinking about a new place without you in it, but he wouldn’t tell you that). “Really? You think so?” 

You nod. “Yeah, I feel—well, I believe you will.”  Placing a hand outside a nearby open window, the sun still feels scorching hot on your skin. You didn’t like bringing umbrellas or wearing hats while practicing, it distracts you too much. “Aish, it’s still too hot out!”

“If I do pick up music, I might turn out even better than you.” He teases, stealing a glance over to you and softening up by following with, “But who knows, maybe we’ll bump into each other a few years from now, you’ll probably already settled with somewhere and I’m still looking for a place to call home, then you can teach me.”

Seungmin can’t actually imagine you permanently staying in one place, with your adventurous streak and passion for the outdoors, much less finding someone who makes you stay in one place forever but he forces himself to consider for the sake of theory. 

Whoever will catch their eye would truly be exceptional. 

You, on the other hand, show evident confusion in your expression while you retract your hand back from the window. “I wouldn’t count myself on the settling down part but sure, I guess, I can teach you a few years from now.” 

“Why?” Seungmin looks up at you again and even stops humming, showing you genuine curiosity. It suddenly felt strangely serious.

At this, you simply shrug. “I don’t know, I guess I don’t think it’s a priority for me. I want to see the world! Can you picture me staying in one place forever?” 

“No?” He chuckles. “What if you fall in love?” 

“If I do, whoever I fall in love with should probably start practicing flying well then.” 

When the two of you go out to the farmland behind Seungmin’s lodging later on, you conjure up an almost-perfect sun shower with only a handful of extra clouds left that needs to disappear.

“Seungmin, you’re going to catch a cold, come over here!” When you turn around to show Seungmin your work,  you see him flying circles over the empty farmlands instead. 

Drenched in light rain, he grows self-conscious of how you think of his flying skilles—all the while debating on whether he should give the last measure of your song to you now, when he’s definitely sure that he enjoys your company, or during Christmas, when it’s the cruelest holiday to leave. 

Seungmin eventually gives in after 2 weeks, not that you’d notice anyway since you didn’t know that he wanted to keep you around longer. The sky is already getting cloudy, reminding the two of you of snow, making it harder to practice during the day—Seungmin had to give in while you can still manage to clear the sky before practicing.

“This is it, Seungmin.” You breathe out dramatically through the chilly December breeze. It’s early morning, just a little after the break of dawn, because you were so excited practicing the song with Seungmin last night. “If this last measure makes my perfect sun shower, my last week here would be the best! I’d be the happiest, I swear.”

There was also the fact that you planned on leaving right after the first snow. Sometimes you’re just too cruel, Seungmin thinks.

“I’m sure this is it, I decoded it.” He says as coolly and as confidently as he can.

You say nothing more, proceeding to sing and play the harp according to your sheet music. The song is only 2 minutes long, barely providing any room to feel nervous as you slowly approached the final verse which is supposed to be different for every witch / wizard, hence why it was hard to decode.

As you play, Seungmin watches the clouds form over the pale yellow sunrise, a small smile unconsciously forming on his face that then grows into a wide grin when they stop at just the right amount and started drizzling the vast expanse of houses ahead in light rain. “Y/N, you did it! You did it!”

You didn’t even realize that you’ve had your eyes closed the entire time you sang and played, opening them only when you felt Seungmin spinning around next to you to feel the rain just as the droplets of rain started to dampen your own hair. “I—I did it!”

“You did!” Seungmin turns to you, not even hiding his happiness this time as he then instinctively pulls you into a warm hug. “I’m so proud of you!”

You hug him back tighter, his coat cold and damp against yours. “Thank you, Seungmin.” You catch your breath as you rest your chin against his shoulder. “Thank you so much.”

Seungmin only hums, speechless in being so close to you. This was the first time you hugged.

Without his face in your view, you miss the way he momentarily frowns at the thought that you’re now certain and confident to leave—a thought he expertly hides when he pulls away later on and says, “So, will you still practice or do you just leave it at that until you leave?”

You frown at him in annoyance, you really were irked he brought it up, especially since several days have passed since you’ve avoided mentioning it. “Why are you thinking of me leaving already? I have to practice a couple more times before I go, of course!”

“I’m just making sure so in case you stay outside overtime again.” He defends himself, suddenly feeling colder that you’re far away again. “Okay, now try making it stop, it’s getting really cold!”

“Alright, alright!” You roll your eyes, making the clouds disappear. You manage to dry yourselves even with a gush of warmer winds to compensate the two of you getting wet with rain. “Jeez, Seungmin, I thought we were having a moment there!”

Though you said it in a joking manner, of course he didn’t miss the way you showed the slightest hint of being hurt. Seungmin feels his heart drop to his stomach at the thought.

You continue practicing in the days that follow, both early in the mornings and late in the afternoons. Though you keep it cool in front of Seungmin, you notice how quiet he’s suddenly become, how he would hum your song less and literally cover his face with his book whenever you glance over at him for small talk.

“Are you mad?” “No.” “Do you feel awkward too?” “...A bit, yeah.” Would always be your conversation-ender. You know he meant it sincerely because he didn’t use his default dry tone on you but somehow it felt awkward.

What changed?

On your last day, you invited him to dinner.

“I told the landlord you can take this house if you want to.” You mention as the two of you ate strawberry cake. Earlier that day, some of the villagers surprised you with a going-away party since you leave at midnight—the cake was from one of the farmers you helped grow crops faster. “I still have some root crops in the garden, that should last you for a month.”

“It’s fine.” He reassures you for the 2nd time since you started eating. “I want the vegetables, though.”

For a while, it seemed like the awkwardness was gone and you laugh. “If you’re not taking the house, then you might have to have a talk with Mrs. Ross over the vegetables.”

“Then I’ll swipe them later when you go.” And then the awkwardness was back.

“Won’t you see me off later?” You ask, nervously playing with your food as you steal a glance at him.

Across the table, the lone strawberry on Seungmin’s plate suddenly seems interesting even when your gaze pokes on his newly dyed blonde hair. “I’m...I’m helping a villager’s sick child, it might take a while.” He bluffs, a heavy feeling looming over him.

“Oh...” He doesn’t see the frown before you muster up a smile. “That’s alright, I guess.”

“Where do you plan on going?” He finally gathers the courage to look up at you, searching for any sign in your eyes that you’d suddenly stay.

You ponder over the question longer than you usually would, your eyes trailing to the window behind Seungmin as you do so. “It’s snowing.” You mutter absentmindedly.

When Seungmin turns around, your windowsill already has a thin layer of snow.

“It is.” He agrees, eyes suddenly stinging. Am I crying? “It’s the first snow.”

You swore you saw faint hints of tears on Seungmin’s face when you escorted him out later that night but you chose to ignore it, diverting your attention instead to the sky—and for the first time you understood why Seungmin hated night skies wherein the stars aren’t visible.

“A bit dull, I get it now.” You comment as you walk him with him to the main road. When he gives you a questioning gaze, the dry trails of tears shining under the faint street lights, you gesture to the sky. “The starless sky, I mean.”

He follows you, frowning at the lack of stars. The sky seems to radiate off of the two of you. “Yeah, it’s so vague, you could barely read anything.”

Seungmin wakes up the following morning to a sun shower. There’s a thick layer of snow outside his window, even more when he steps out of his lodging later on, yes, but it’s the lone droplet of rain that falls on his cheek as he closes the door behind him on his way out that catches his utmost attention, casting his eyes up to the sky as it begins to drizzle.

At that moment, it fully dawns on him that you never told him exactly where you were going. 

Still, he flies to your house, in hopes of any clue somehow. Only, when he arrived, he only saw the landlady, Mrs. Ross there, tending to your garden.

“Oh, Seungmin!” She greets the evidently distressed wizard. “Do you want to take some of the vegetables?”

“N-No, I just thought that—nevermind.”

“If you’re looking for Y/N, they already left last night.” Mrs. Ross says sympathethically to Seungmin. “They didn’t say where they were going.”

Seungmin walks home afterwards, dejected.

It felt wrong, spending an entire day without you afterwards, especially when the sun was out later in the afternoon yet it felt horrifyingly cold.

The week passes by too slowly for Seungmin, even when he decides on devoting half of his day to resuming correspondence with his parents and some friends—away in their own towns. He rarely leaves the house, wandering only as far as the bookstore downstairs, utilizing the never-ending snow as an excuse to his landlord. Your landlady. Mrs. Ross, is probably the only person from outside his building that he sees whenever she drops by to hand him the produce from your garden.

His textbooks have started to blur in front of him whenever he studies and the weather has started feeling dull and repetitive for him.

And so it felt years have already passed when a knock comes to his door beyond the usual time Mrs. Ross would come by. It’s already afternoon, just as Seungmin is about to take a nap.

“Who is it?” He asks as loudly as he can in his drowsy state, almost stumbling over an umbrella stand in the process, but the knock continues, annoyingly chirpy at that.

When he opens the door, you give him no time to prepare himself as you tackle him in a hug. “Kim Seungmin!” You exclaim, throwing your arms to his shoulder.

There’s a slight delay on his part, partly because the sun is shining too warmly and too bright outside but mostly because he instantly recognizes your warmth as you squeeze him tighter. “Wha—? How—?” He stutters, eyes wide and mouth hanging open in shock. Nevertheless, he wraps his arms around your waist, quickly gathering his thoughts together to coherently ask, “Where have you been?!”

“Oh, here and there. I went home to my parents then wandered off aimlessly to some beaches in the South since it’s really cold up here.” You explain as you try and pull away from him but Seungmin uncharacteristically keeps you in place, making you laugh. “Hey, you missed me.”

At this, he buries his face on your shoulder, mumbling a muffled, “Of course I did.” that almost completely melted your heart if it weren’t for him following it with, “I thought I’d never see you again.”

“Well, I needed time to think.” When you pull away, he lets you this time, allowing you to step inside his place. It looked the same since you were last here, you notice.

“Of what?”

“Of how I feel for you.” You make sure to say it in the sincerest way you know, feeling light-headed afterwards.

Oh, Seungmin thinks, cheeks flushed, so it’s me?

Seungmin stands there gaping, completely dazed at your short confession until your face is completely red from the heat that you immediately speak again. “Seungmin, say something.”

“Why?”

“Because I didn’t know if you liked me or not.”

“Wasn’t it obvious?”

You knit your eyebrows in confusion. “No? If you were, I would’ve actually stayed longer.”

“R-Really?” Now, Seungmin just feels dumb for not being more clear with his feelings.

You nod with a hum, continuing, “I kept dropping hints as best as I can but you just keep mentioning me leaving whenever you can.”

In front of you, you can clearly see Seungmin’s frustration with himself. “I’m sorry, I should’ve still been considerate of how you felt about me mentioning your leave then and I definitely should’ve asked you to stay even when your training did end.” He frowns, more to himself than to you. “B-because I...I really like you too but I also thought that you’d want to go and explore the moment you’re allowed to leave—I didn’t want to keep you waiting if you like me too.”

You shake your head no, a small smile now forming on your lips. “It’s not like the world outside’s going to change.” You take a brave step closer to Seungmin now, cupping his cheeks in your warm hands. “So, what’s—how many months do you have left? Four?—what’s 4 months more of waiting?” 

[myinconnelly1]

Dancing the Spiral

Word count: 4K (this is the longest One-shot I've ever written)

Masterist of Everything

A/n: Written for @dontshootmespence ‘s 8k celebration! here is I for Insanity!!! If you scare easily this might not be the fic for you.  But i think it came out awesome.  I took a lot of inspiration from my time playing White wolf’s World of Darkness, and you might recognize some stuff from The Golden Knight.  Also big thanks to @donnaintx and @emilyshurley for being my sounding board, giving me ideas for the monsters and telling me to go to bed when it was late.

A/N 2: Also i put some breaks within the fic.  They don't mean anything other than this is a good pause place if your eyes hurt.

Warnings: graphic depictions violence/gore, themes of horror and insanity, SNAKES

Summary:  Kelsey has a disturbing Dream about herself and the Winchesters and now she has to try and understand it before it’s too late.

“How are you ss-sleeping, Kelsey?”  The doctor asked as he leaned back and looked at her studiously.  His lisp caused her obvious discomfort as she relived the vivid imagery of her nightmare.

“Not bad,”  Kelsey lied dropping her gaze to the floor as she avoided eye contact with the man.  She was new to this practice but wanted to give the doctor a chance.  In her opinion, it was not going well, but it could be going worse.  Any minute now he could turn into a snake man and she would snap her eyes open.  She had not slept in nearly a week and she had started hallucinating.  

“You’re not a very good liar.  You just said that you didn’t really like this practice but were going to give it a try.  So why don’t you tell me about what’ss bothering you.”  He licked his lips and pulled out a notepad.

Kelsey rolled her eyes.

“Sam I’ve been having this dream.  You’re in it, and so is your brother.”  She was pacing outside a motel.

“Come on, Kelsey, it sounds like you’re gonna start explaining a sex dream.”  Kelsey closed her eyes and inhaled deeply as she fought with herself.  She heard a noise and jerked her head around, but nothing was there to see.  “Get a goddamn grip.  Plenty of people deal with insomnia and bad dreams.  They don’t go running to their new boyfriends trying to explain that the monsters might be real.”

“But most people also get some sleep despite those things.  They don’t stand around hearing and seeing shit that isn’t there.”  She muttered in argument.

“Yeah well they don’t talk to themselves either,”  She quibbled back.

“You okay?”  Sam asked as he stuck his head out of the motel room door.  “I saw you standing out here pacing and wasn’t sure if you were going to come in or not.”

“Yeah, I’m gonna come in.  I don’t think you were going to go in.  I wasn’t sure if I really wanted to bother Sam with this.”  Kelsey babbled until she realized that Sam was staring at her like she had a second head.  “Sorry, not sleeping.”  She gave a weak smile.

“No problem, we’ve all been there,”  Sam said.  “Dean and I were just doing some research for a job.”

“That sounds exciting,”  Kelsey said trying to contain her thoughts in her mouth. Dean gave her a quick smile and a wink as she came into the motel.  “What kind of job are the FBI working on in town?”  She had a serious case of Deja Vu and surreptitiously found a mirror to look at herself in.

“We’re looking into some suspicious missing person cases.  We’re not really sure what the connection is but we’re hopeful.  You okay?”  Sam asked.  

You caught yourself staring at the mirror and realized you had inadvertently picked out the outfit from your dream. You were muttering something and not listening to your boyfriend so quickly tried to recover.

“Missing persons, I haven’t heard about anyone.”  She was pretty out of the loop on missing persons working in the ER and things had been worse lately, but she figured she would have heard about at least one.

“We’ve been keeping it quiet,”  Dean said a little too quickly.  She looked at him oddly.

“Dean, if there is a connection between these people I don’t know what it is.”  Kelsey saw Sam say to Dean from his laptop.

“There has gotta be a connection.  Why are these people being targeted?”  Dean’s voice rumbled.  “Maybe they are looking for something, demons don’t just possess people for no reason.”

“I don’t think they are demons, Dean,”  Sam said.

Kelsey’s head was spinning.  She blinked rapidly trying to clear her mind of the hallucination.

“Kel, maybe you should sit down.”  Sam’s voice was like the surface of a still lake as Kelsey broke the surface for air.  She shook her head vigorously, fleeing the room.

“Kelsey, wait!”  Dean stood to try and catch her but she was off and gone.

“This is a creepy ass temple,”  Dean groaned looking at the abandoned building.  He didn’t want to be here and wasn’t sure if the souls of the people that had been brought here wanted to come either.

Kelsey sat up on the floor of her apartment gasping as the world spun.  She tried to count ten but kept losing focus.  She stood and went to the freezer and grabbed an ice cube.  The cold helped restart her train of thought and stir her from the brink of the abyss she felt like she was standing over.  Kelsey rubbed her arm scratching the imaginary bugs that she knew weren’t there.

She needed to go to the temple.  It was the only way she was going to figure this out.

“You mean if it is even real,” She sighed at herself.  She pulled out her phone and sent Sam a text apologizing for the way that she had rushed out.  She confirmed that she was in fact, really okay.  “Liar.”  

She packed a few items and left in search of where she thought the temple was.  Or at least where Dean thought the temple was, when she had hallucinated being him.  She was starting to no longer care how crazy it sounded.

“Kelsey?”  Sam asked as she realized she had been standing in front of the somewhat ruined temple.  “What are you doing here?”

“Um, listen this is gonna sound weird,”  She said

“Not any weirder than anything else you’ve done today,”  Dean muttered, but Sam elbowed him.

“No, it’s true.  I think.  I uh, had this weird dream about this temple and you guys and these snake monsters.  Anyway, I had to figure out what was going on.  But I haven’t been sleeping so I’m not sure what's real anymore.”  Kelsey continued to babble.

“Wait, snake monsters?”  Sam asked, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“Yeah, they were snakes, but not quite.  And they had arms and claws.  And I think they can possess people, but I think that’s kinda crazy and I don’t feel so good.”  Kelsey curled up a little as her muscles cramped from the lack of sleep.

“No, it’s okay,”  Sam said wrapping his arms around the tired brunette.

“Sam,”  Dean’s voice sounded like a warning.

“No, she needs to know.  What you were dreaming about, it’s real.”  Sam said, pulling her close.

“It is?”  Kelsey whispered.  “I don’t know what’s worse, that those monsters are real or that you believe me.”  

“What do you mean?”  Dean asked.

“I’ve been hallucinating a lot,” Kelsey admitted.  “But I didn’t think that you guys would really believe me.”

“The missing people aren’t really missing.  It’s more like they’ve been possessed.”  Sam said.

“So then what is this creepy temple?”  Kelsey asked, pointing to the building that was falling apart.

“It’s an entrance to a supposedly creepy shadow world,”  Dean said.

“The Spiral,”  Kelsey said, shaking her head and rubbing her face.

“How did you know that?” Sam asked, looking at her as he and Dean pulled out shotguns.

“I’m not sure, but what are you going to do with those?”  She pointed at the guns.  “If they are spirits can you actually touch them?”

“The monsters are called Naag, and we are hoping that they are repelled by salt like other ghosts,”  Sam said as they loaded the firearms with the salt rounds.

                                                        ~~~~~

“We have to go through the door.  No matter what.”  Sam said as they approached the entrance of the temple.

“What happens if we don’t?”  Kelsey asked as she realized she was seriously underprepared.

“We don’t leave ever,”  Dean responded, giving her a quick glance over his shoulder.

“But we will, it’s gonna be okay, just stay close,”  Sam comforted.  The three of them walked into the temple, and all gasped as if they were being stabbed all over by icicles.

They panted as they tried to gain an understanding of their surroundings in the inky black.  Kelsey knew something about what they had done was wrong but she wasn’t sure what it was.  Their eyes adjusted slowly to the dimness until finally, they saw the temple in its full splendor all around them.

“Where the hell are we?”  Dean asked as he turned around slowly.

“The spiral,”  Sam answered.  “I think.”

“Yes,”  Kelsey suffered a momentary lapse of lucidity as her vision doubled with a view of splendid statues and Snake men.  “This was their entrance to protect.  This is the first circle.  We shouldn’t be here.”

“Why?”  Dean asked, lifting the shotgun again.

“Normally you enter the spiral in your sleep,”  Kelsey said,  “We walked in.”

“How do you know that?”  Sam asked, grabbing her forearm gently, to look at him.

“I’m not sure,”  Kelsey seemed to struggle to grasp the answer to the question.  “I think I dreamed about it.”

“More importantly, why does it matter that we were awake.”  Dean interrupted her thoughts.

“We’re here in the flesh.  We are in their world.  We have to play by their rules.  They can hurt us, and possess us.”

“That explains why the others were brought here, so they could be possessed,”  Sam said looking over her shoulder and said to Dean.  He released Kelsey’s arm.

“Yeah but for what purpose?”  Dean asked looking back at his brother.

“It’s a trap,”  Kelsey’s eyes went wide as she looked up at Sam, then bolted for the doorway they had just come through.

“Kel, that’s not gonna-”  He cut off as she leaped through the doorway and disappeared.  “Work…  huh, I guess she found the door, come on.”

Sam and Dean came through the door and found Kelsey covering her ears and screaming.

“What the hell?”  Dean asked as he and Sam went over to her.  She turned and scraped her nails across Dean’s face as she say him first.  “Fuck!”  He yelled as he backed up.

“Kelsey! Hey, it’s Sam.  Stop!”  He commanded as he tried to keep her hands at bay from attacking him.  “Find the door!”  Sam shouted over her screeching.

“There!”  Dean shouted as he saw the outline in the empty dark room.  The smaller dark-haired woman had finally gotten the upper hand on Sam, and Dean ran at her, throwing her over his shoulder toward the door with Sam right behind him. Dean kicked the darkness and the light flooded the dark, blinding them momentarily as they moved through the door.

“Where the hell are we now?”  Dean asked as he looked around the open field.

“Endurance?”  Sam threw out the word like Dean should know what it meant.  Kelsey squirmed in the older brother’s arms.

“Will you put me down please?”  She asked, sounding her normal calm self again.

“Are you going to scratch me again?”  Dean asked as he lowered her feet to the ground.

“I’m sorry,”  She said wringing the hem of her shirt.

“It’s healed, like it never happened,”  Sam said looking at Dean.

“What does endurance mean?”  Dean asked, ignoring his brother’s statement.  His face still stung even if the wound wasn’t there.

“It’s the third circle of the Spiral,”  Sam said.

“So what was that?”  Dean asked, jerking his thumb over his shoulder to the now no longer there door.

“Rage,”  Kelsey said, wiping at the tears streaking her cheeks.  “Sorry, it was like all the anger and frustration I’ve been holding on to without my sleep hit me like a tidal wave.”

“It’s okay,”  Sam said, knowing that this realm would bring out the worst in all of them.

“It’s not, but we don’t have time for that,”  Kelsey said.

“You know, not to kick a gift horse in the mouth but you seem much more together here,”  Dean said looking at Kelsey’s clear eyes.

“This place is madness,”  Kelsey said cryptically as she walked forward and down an almost limitless mountain.

“What the hell does that mean?”  Dean asked, throwing his hands up.

“Maybe everything is top-see turvy here, and because of that the world makes sense to her?”  Sam suggested taking off after her.

“Right,”  Dean mumbled, rolling his eyes.

The group walked for what seemed like hours.  They were tired and there was no end in sight to the landscape.  Let alone a door or entryway.

“Do you think we missed it?”  Sam asked concern crossing his face.  None of them wanted to get stuck here and face the corruption of their souls that awaited them.

“I don’t think so,”  Kelsey said as she did a slow circle to look around.

“If you say something cryptic and creepy, like the door will show up when we least expect it, I’ll-”  Dean was interrupted and they all cried out in surprise as the ground literally fell out from beneath them.

                                                     ~~~~~

“Well that hurt,”  Kelsey groaned before looking around.  “Sam?  Dean?!”  She cried out the names of the brothers looking for them frantically, before the chilling reality that she was alone struck her.

“All alone?”  A voice called from the shadows of the temple.  Her fall from the previous circle had brought her back inside.

“Who’s there?”  She whimpered, as she started to walk through archways toward the voice.

“Sssomeone who knowss who you are,”  the voice seemed to mock her.  It stayed hidden in the shadow, but she assumed it belonged to one of the Naag, who resided and protected this part of the Spiral.  It continued to hide away from where she could see.

“My master is looking for sssomeone like you.  What is your name, foolish one?”

“I thought you knew who I was?”  She chided.

“Sslip of the forked tongue.  I know what you are.”  The masculine voice corrected itself.

“I’m a person,”  She said the sliver of doubt caused by her dream cracking back open.

“With a dead-end job, who wonders where they should truly be in the world.  You are kind to people because they aren’t kind to you.  But you have never felt like you really belong.”  He sounded almost clinical in his appraisal of her.  And it stung her just how close to the mark he had fallen.

“How do you know so much about me?”  She asked as a tingling feeling had started to spread throughout her body starting at her toes and fingers.  Her skin was becoming ethereal like she was fading out.

“We’ve been watching you.  You have much doubt.  This ss-circle is not for those who don’t believe in themselvesss.”  He hissed a laugh.

“If you’ve been watching me, then you’ve been waiting for me.  Why?  Unless you knew I was coming here.  But even I didn’t know I was coming here?”  Kelsey was thinking in circles and stalling out.  Her fear and exhaustion were starting to get to her as she continued to fade from her own few.

“Pleassse, Psssychic.  You always knew this is the road you were going to take.  Ever ssince you had that dream,”  He spoke with a villainous laugh. Kelsey’s body was disappearing rapidly now as her doubt about her entire life ate her away.

“Psychic?” She whispered.

“Now, I will claim you as mine,”  The Naag was suddenly in front of her.  A hideously deformed beast that stood well over eight feet tall.  It was haunched back on a thick tail and a cobra-like hood flared around its fanged head.  Two meaty arms protruded from its sides with long menacing claws.  Something grabbed Kelsey’s invisible arm and tugged her roughly.

“Sam?!”  She cried as she flung herself around the tall man.

“I saw you first, but don’t thank me or anything,”  She heard Dean mumble.

“What happened?”  She asked, looking at the two men.

“We were separated from each other, but thankfully after walking through some of the interior structures, we walked through the door by accident.  I don’t know what caused us to become visible to each other,”  Sam explained, giving Dean a significant look.  Kelsey would ask him about that later.  Then she remembered what the Naag had said to her.

A Psychic, that meant that she knew what was going to happen here.  A sinking feeling of dread fell like a rock in the pit of her stomach.  

“Don’t let the Naag bite you,”  She said realizing that her moment of silence might have seemed suspicious.  “I saw one right before you grabbed me.”

“We haven’t seen anything,”  Dean said, looking around with his shotgun lifted again.  The agitation and fear of the men was palpable.

“And they never will,”  A serpentine voice hissed in her ear.  She spun around to see the Naag from the previous circle towering over her and Sam.

“RUN!”  She screamed. Other Naags were audible in the distance as Sam and Dean didn’t ask questions and took off away from where the spirit was.

“There!”  Dean called pointing his gun to the side.  “There is the door.”  The temple was starting to collapse around them.  Heavy stone blocks falling all over.

“Kelsey, come on!”  Sam called urging the girl to run faster.  She cut the corner, dodging falling rubble just in time to see the Naag from before collide into Dean’s back.  He howled in pain, the large body of the Naag fell from her view as the door and the other Naag closed in on them.  Another smaller Naag latched onto Sam, just as Kelsey caught up to them.

They crashed through the doorway with the two Naags clawing for purchase on their skin.

“That was anticlimactic,” Kelsey groaned as the scenery had not changed between circles of the Spiral.  “Be on the lookout!“

Kelsey grabbed the monster on Sam by an unidentifiable appendage and yanked, tugging it off of his back before it had time to bite him and claim him for itself.

“Find the door, I’ll get Dean.  This is the last circle, so watch for the betrayal.” She was turning away and found the older Winchester staring at her.  The look in his eye was murderous and she felt the air leave her chest as his arm struck her middle and sent her flying across the width of the large temple hallway.  

“Guess you found it,”  She muttered to herself weakly.  She blinked repeatedly and shook her head to clear it, before clambering awkwardly off the ground.  Dean was charging toward her and she sidestepped in time for him to slam into the wall and fall in a crumple.  

She couldn’t see the Naag anywhere but knew that something had happened between Dean and it.  She invoked her second sight, a thing she hadn’t realized she could do and saw the misshapen atrocity that was coiling itself around Dean’s essence.  She sighed, knowing that this would be the one time Dean would be happy to know that the scars of his life were working for him as the Naag struggled to fit itself into all the grooves.  She reached for the bite mark that marred the back of his shoulder-blade and worked her first two fingers into the infernal wound.  

Dean howled in pain, as Kelsey’s fingers dug under his skin trying to reach the end of the Naag’s ethereal tail.  Sam’s gun fired behind her but all she could do was hope that the rock salt affected the Naag, as she couldn’t let herself be distracted at this crucial moment.  She exclaimed as she hooked her finger on the spirit then stood, ripping it from its almost settled location within Dean’s essence.  Dean crumpled to the ground as the bite on his back healed like it never existed.

Kelsey flung the Naag spirit against the opposing wall and pulled Dean up from the ground.

“I found the door!”  Sam shouted as he ran to join them and take Dean’s weight from her.

“Let’s go, we can’t waste anymore time,”  Kelsey urged the brothers in front of her so she could keep an eye out for the other Naags she knew were close behind and Sam and Dean started to sprint for the door.  She smiled to herself knowing they were within spitting distance as the door came into view.

Something snapped around Kelsey’s ankle and she gasped as the ground met her face rapidly.

“Pessssky little bitch,”  the atrocious snake-man hissed as it pulled itself against her chest.  “I liked him, but if you wanted me so badly,”  It coiled its tail around her leg as if to cuddle itself close to her warm body.  “All you had to do was say so.”

Kelsey uttered a blood-curdling shriek of pain as the millions of tiny dagger-like teeth sunk into her collarbone.

“Kelsey!”  Sam cried as he heard her and turned to see the spirit disappear.  He shoved Dean through the door and ran back over to her as her body started to convulse and bubbles formed around her slightly purple lips. “Shit,”  Sam cursed as he worked to get his hand under her head to keep her from choking.  The light behind the door was fading and unknown to Sam, more Naags were starting to come into the hallway.

Kelsey gasped and then sputtered like she had been drowning.  Her eyes snapped open as she steadied herself.

“Come on, we have to get out of here,”  Sam said standing her up and supporting her around the waist.

“You have to go,”  She croaked as he half dragged her.

“I’m not gonna leave you,”  Sam said firmly.  They stepped through the door together, as claws from one of the Naags raked along Sam’s arm and grabbed Kelsey around the waist to try to pull her back through the door.

“Sam!”  she screamed his name, terror was written on her face.

“Dean!”  Sam shouted as he turned trying to get a better grip on the brunette.  Dean came around to grab her as well and their combined strength was enough to balance out the strength of the Naag.

“Ssshhhhe’ss mine,”  Kelsey gagged on the hiss as the Naag used her voice to speak.

“No,” Sam argued.

“Go on, Psssychic,”  The spirit struggled with the word.  “Tell them what you saw in your dream.  Tell them how you knew this would happen and you came anyway.”  Tears fell from Kelsey’s eyes as Sam’s face contorted with pain.  She had known she wouldn’t make it, and she had come to save them anyway.

“I’m not going to let you die,”  Sam grunted as he pulled doubly hard.  A joint popped loudly in Kelsey’s arm.

“We’re not winning,”  Dean growled lowly.

“Ssssshhe won’t die with me.”  The Naag hissed like a dark soothing balm.  Kelsey seemed to battle with herself momentarily as the claws around her waist pierced her flesh.

“Don’t worry, Sammy,”  Dean tried to bolster his brother.

Kelsey’s body went limp suddenly and the brothers were pulled close to her face.  Dean let go with the limited space of the doorway,  and Kelsey grabbed Sam’s face with her free hand to kiss him deeply.

“Thank you,”  She whispered against his stun-slack lips.  “I will find you.”

She twisted her arm around, breaking his hold on her forearm and was pulled back through the door.

“And that’s where I wake up,”  Kelsey finished her recount to the therapist who made little notes in his book.  “If I’m honest, I’m tired.  I haven’t dreamed since then.  I just don’t know what to make of it.”

“Interesting,”  The man muttered as he moved to put his notepad down.  He stood, and something in his eyes caught Kelsey’s attention.

“Doc, you okay?”  She asked fear causing her voice to shake.  She was trying to be subtle in the way she scooted down the couch toward the door.  “Doc?”

“He’sss long gone.  But don’t worry, I think you’ve been looking for me,”  His face contorted horrifically and she screamed as the door to the office slammed open.  Sam and Dean rushed in weapons drawn, and their faces reflected her disgust at the evil spirit from her nightmare.

@waywardbaby @destielhoneybee @snffbeebee @deangirl7695 @spnbaby-67 @maddiepants @tabrown2021 @ladywinchester1967 @woodworthti666 @miraclesoflove @tumbler-tidbits @emilyshurley @akshi8278 @mannls @wendibird @bobasheebaby @flamencodiva @theoneandonlymelol @chelsea072498 @donnaintx @justsomedreaming @supernaturalenchanted @kalesrebellion @prettydeaneyes @emoryhemsworth @yourdommelb @idreamofplaid

[youwerenevermeanttofeelalone]

Somebody Sweet to Talk To ❁︎ 𝐒𝐈𝐗

Pairing: Harry Osborn x Plus Size Reader

Word Count: 4k

Gif credit

Summary & Warnings || Series Masterlist

𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐚 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐜𝐤 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧

𝐈'𝐦 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬

𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐈 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝

𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬

❁︎ ・・・・・❁︎ ・・・・・ ❁︎ ・・・・・❁︎

Harry groaned while trying to get up from the bed. He didn’t have any broken ribs, but everything hurt to the point where painkillers didn’t even grant him sleep. It wasn’t the worst beating he had received, it wouldn’t even enter the top 10, but he was only human so it was normal for it to hurt like a bitch.

’The silver lining is he won’t react like this on Saturday,’ Harry thought bitterly as he looked at himself in the mirror to start the oh so familiar damage recount. The busted lip was the only thing he wouldn’t be able to hide — Peter would believe him if he said he had fallen on the front steps of his house, but you wouldn’t. You were more observant, and a medic in training.

On Saturday he changed his outfit more times he would ever be comfortable by admitting. Harry needed to impress people that night, two people that preferred his best friend over him. Dressing like Peter usually did wasn’t an option, his male best friend sucked at color coordination and he wore hoodies most of the time.

His father would wear dark grey, that was why Harry didn’t even consider a suit in that color. He settled on all blue. He looked fine, or at least he thought he did. Checking the time, he smoothed imaginary wrinkles on the jacket and left the house.

You were freaking out, pacing from left to right in front of your bed. Pepper followed the movements with her eyes, trying not to laugh. You were too mortified for something as simple as dinner, all thanks to Peter. Your best friend entered your bedroom that morning to warn you of how difficult Norman Osborn was to please and extended the reminder of not being a good idea to date Harry.

Of course dating Harry wasn’t a good idea. Dating wasn’t a good idea, actually — Harry was more than fine. And boy was he f i n e. Shaking your head and reminding yourself that thirsting over your fake boyfriend wasn’t a good idea either you halted your pacing to look at Pepper.

Pepper tilted her head, waiting for the question filling your semblance. The inquiry never came, it couldn’t; how could it when it embarrassed you tremendously?

You needed to impress Norman. For Harry’s sake? Debatable. You were prideful, and impressing a man as difficult as he would stroke your ego. Desperate for some kind of positive reaction to your existence, you would do anything to achieve it. Asking Pepper how to do it would mean getting teased, Tony would tell you to be yourself even if that was the entire problem, and Bucky would tease you while repeating Tony’s comment. Could Gwen have helped? You supposed the blonde would be open to at least try with how nice she was, but you didn’t really know her.

Your dad was still visiting, and you were tempted to ask him until you remembered he didn’t care for that. Fuck, your only option was Harry himself. Not for the first time that week, you found yourself in need of his comfort and reassurance — the most dangerous thing you had ever felt. You should’ve stopped it at that moment, tell him you couldn’t do it anymore.

Three Saturdays now you had been through that and the three times your conclusion had been the same. A stupid pattern that needed to be broken yet you didn’t dare to even touch.

“Do I look presentable?” you found yourself asking to not make Pepper think the question would be deeper.

Pepper smiled brightly. “You look great.”

The doorbell resonated throughout the compound. Harry was five minutes earlier from the time he said he would pick you up, as you expected. ’You can get through this,’ you told yourself inwardly as Pepper for some reason escorted you into the elevator, ’it’s just dinner with a strict rich man and his hot son who you’re supposedly dating.’

Oh god, you wouldn’t make it past the appetizers. Harry looked finer than ever, with his busted lip and all, he definitely knew blue was his color and took advantage of it. His eyes taking in your appearance made you nervous, so nervous you almost asked if you should change your outfit or hairdo.

“You look beautiful.” The way he said it, through a breath and looking into your eyes... he was getting good at acting.

Okay, the appetizers had been a very long term goal. You were gone, completely gone. You would’ve yelled at him at that moment to stop tormenting you so much if you hadn’t swallowed an anxiolytic earlier.

“You look handsome,” you tried to smile without giggling. It was weird, the sound that left your throat, but he didn’t tease you. No one around you did, they only exchanged looks.

Harry didn’t continue staring like guys did in the movies, he asked if you were ready to go and when you said yes, he rushed to open the door for you.

Buckling up, you considered faking feeling unwell. As he slipped into the car and his cologne mixed with his aftershave swirled around the air, you threw the idea out of the window and allowed yourself to look at him some more before tearing your eyes away from the side of his face.

He didn’t drag the drive despite his nervousness. The two of you would be punctually there, looking dapper, and inwardly begging for things to go smoothly enough.

His gulp as he opened the front door didn’t go unnoticed by you. Squeezing his hand, you encouraged him to get inside. Both of you did so in politely slow strides, greeted by a maid who took your coat and guided you to the living room.

Norman Osborn stood up, watching you like a hawk. Harry’s eyes were on the right hand that had hit him multiple times as it enveloped the one that had only given him security and shook it; the gesture was curt and firm but not strong enough to bruise. His father’s expression was neutral, eyes critically taking both your appearances in — he seemed pleased with your attires, a tight-lipped smile confirmed it.

Conversation flowed easily due to the nature of meeting new people as dinner took place.

“I must ask, my dear,” Norman said, looking at you. “Why choose someone like my son when you’re surrounded by people like you?”

Feeling the young man tense beside you, you patted the back of his hand under the table. “Well, sir: your son is smart, charming, and interesting. Geniuses aren’t always too approachable and when they are there’s not much to be said or done around or with them, if I may be honest. Harry might not be a genius, but he’s brilliant and knowledgeable on many things which I find necessary in an acquaintance.”

Both men were clearly not expecting such an answer. Norman stared at you to look for signs of a lie and when he found none, he hummed. Harry was trying to calm down, his breathing was getting too shaky to be healthy — the young man didn’t think you had been honest, but oh how he desperately wanted you to have been. The fact that you were defending him from his father was worth more than you would ever know.

Like Harry had expected, Norman treated you with respect and empathy. His father was impressed by you. He couldn’t blame him, it seemed like finally, they could agree on something and the young man enjoyed knowing the reason of their agreement was a pair of expressive eyes and such a kind heart.

A relieved sigh slid past his lips as soon as he got into the car. He hadn’t intended for you to realize, why would he? Grateful for your lack of inquiries, he waited for you to buckle up before pulling onto the street and away from his house.

Now that you had seemingly impressed Norman freaking Osborn you knew getting out of the fake relationship thing would be harder. You understood now, after having heard the changes in the older man’s tone when directed toward his son, why Harry had been so tense since you parked in front of his gigantic house. You also understood why Peter had warned you, but you couldn’t help but wonder if your fake boyfriend had always been treated so coldly.

“Wait,” he breathed as you made a motion to open the door to get into The Compound. His hand found yours, fingers fitting between yours like they had been made to do just that.

You looked up. “Do you need anything?”

Leaning in, he nodded. You nodded back in agreement, a little too effusively for the occasion, taking the advantage your high heels were giving you to be the one pressing your lips to his. The hand he had flush to his side crawled up your arm to slide and hold your head as it was placed on your nape while your free one rested on his chest lightly.

The sweet kiss would’ve been that even if his tongue didn’t taste of the dessert you had just eaten. There was no rush, no public around you to convince, not even an interruption this time. The warmth of his hand penetrated your entire being, there wasn’t a single part of yours that wasn’t content under his touch and kiss — even your brain that most of the time entered in an alert state was calm, and you wondered, as both yours and his eyes fluttered open and mouths separated in slow motion, if that was how being happy felt like.

The living room was full— as full as it could be when half the team was out on a mission at least— snacks filled the entire table between the two main couches. Peter had expected to see a face marked by tears, not a shy wave. Tony asked how had it gone and you said fine in such a natural tone that Peter saw his entire life pass in front of his eyes.

Throughout the night Harry and you exchanged text messages until you told him to get some sleep. It was new to you, as much as you always stayed up until 3 or 4 am, you had never done it while texting someone. Talking with him was easy, like spotting an infection; and stoping was as hard as diagnosing hepatitis without blood tests.

The intellectual stimulation you got from him was different than the one any of your teammates gave you, different than how you felt while solving puzzles or working in the laboratory. Not more real, just more meaningful because you didn’t expect that from him — you thought it would be unbearable to fake being Harry Osborn’s girlfriend, that he would be boring and snobbish, hollow and arrogant; boy, had you been wrong.

❁︎ ・・・・・❁︎ ・・・・・ ❁︎ ・・・・・❁︎

He watched you take the path toward the laboratory one afternoon and sighed before walking toward his friends. Ignoring their glances, he took his tablet out and continued digitally designing his new apartment. After his father met his —unknowingly to Norman fake— girlfriend, he urged Harry to get an apartment so he could have more privacy with you. A surprisingly nice thought that would save him from many stressful situations, and an excuse to spend more time with you while decorating it. He had already told you, he did so on Monday as soon as he saw you — when he asked you to help him you were doubtful at first which made his heart drop.

“Shouldn’t your best friend help you with that?” you had asked, not lifting your eyes from your notes.

He had scoffed, “have you seen Peter’s room? No, thank you.” His comment had made you chuckle and he saw you nod in agreement.

It had been his idea to design it digitally first and only fix details once physically putting everything in place. He would’ve liked you to be beside him while doing it, but you had a job to put attention to so the agreement was that you would give your input and help in your free time.

Interior designing was more difficult than one would think. The solution of calling an expert to keep himself from second-guessing every single one of his choices was too tempting but he wouldn’t give in, not when you would stand behind him, forearms on the edge of the back of the couch as you stared at the screen from on top of his shoulder. Your breath would tickle his neck lightly, sending chills down his spine.

“That couch has too many cushions,” you told him lowly to not disturb anyone around you.

He craned his neck to look at you, “it looks comfortable.”

“Ten cushions for a couch are excessive, Harry.”

“You have eight pillows on your bed.”

“Bed, not sofa.”

“You’re telling me I should have eight pillows on my bed for when you stay over instead of on the couch? Because if you are, I can do both.”

“When did I—,“ you stuttered, fighting the heat daring to crawl up your neck at his words. “Just don’t even dare complaining when you can’t sit down comfortably on that thing.”

Harry got impatient, however, and halfway through the designing project decided to hire a designer. You found it hilarious and said you knew he would do that as you walked toward The Compound, lips pursed to keep your laugh at bay.

So what if he had only endured three days designing an apartment before giving up? It was hard! And he didn’t want to feel uncomfortable at his own place! When he defended himself by saying that, you put a hand on his shoulder and told him in a soft sigh that you found the time he lost funny and not his desire of feeling at home.

Harry didn’t know what home was or how it felt, but he had his suspicions that it was more than a place.

❁︎ ・・・・・❁︎ ・・・・・ ❁︎ ・・・・・❁︎

It was a Sunday evening, 3:00-ish pm, your throat was sore from the concert you and Harry had attended the night before. The concert was the reason for the congressional meeting taking place in your room, you needed help and you needed it urgently.

When Harry had picked you up for the concert you had been fine, comfortable like you felt around him now even if mere four weeks had passed from the day you started speaking and faking the relationship, but as the event progressed and you realized how much he avoided staring at you, you came to the conclusion that your feelings were more one-sided than you had assumed. So you needed to know what a crush really was in order to find how to get rid of it.

Peter would be useless at it, and your mentors couldn’t know you were still in distress over liking Harry. Gwen was an expert on relationships, she was good with people and everyone always asked her for advice — she was nice enough to listen.

Your online investigation had been encouraging, a crush lasted four months according to it, you were a week away from finishing the first one which meant the torture wouldn’t last more than the wait for your most anticipated movie of the year.

Gwen giggled at your question, prompting you to frown. “A crush is when you like someone you don’t know,” she eventually explained as her giggles subsided. “You find them attractive, and become a little obsessive over them.”

“Scientifically speaking,” you stated your case, “a crush lasts around four months. It sounds quite excruciating if you ask me, but what I really want to know is how do people get rid of them.”

“You have a crush on someone?”

“No, no,” you shook your head. “It’s for scientific purposes.”

“According to your scientific studies,” Gwen conceded, knowing where the conversation was going, “what is a crush? Because I think my definition is wrong then.”

“Well,” you stood up from the couch, “you find someone attractive, and charming even though they are not naturally, and want to be around them, and feel a deep need of defending them, and wish you could give them a little bit of what they unknowingly and selflessly give you in return... you miss them when they’re not around, and find yourself entertaining the ridiculously childish idea that you are finally safe while experiencing utter fear of being rejected by them because it would mean losing them,” your voice turned softer as the list progressed, eyes twinkling. You cleared your throat to ease the lump forming there and winced at the burning sensation its irritated state brought. “Or at least that’s what I read.”

Gwen swallowed loudly to give her verdict. “You’re in love with Harry.”

“Who’s talking about Harry?” You blurted a screech with eyes open wide.

Gwen stood up from your bed, walking toward you and taking both your hands. “There’s nothing wrong with it, it might be too soon for some people, but it’s okay.”

You shook your head frantically. “I’m not—“ you couldn’t say it, saying it would mean having considered it being true. It couldn’t be true, you couldn’t have skipped so many steps because of a tall endearing asshole. “I’m not talking about anyone I know.”

“I’ve seen the way you look at him.”

“He’s handsome, we all know that. But I’m talking about something different, and even if I wasn’t—“ fuck, you didn’t know how to excuse yourself now.

Gwen gripped your hands tightly. “Breathe,” she cooed gently. “You’re shaking from head to toe.”

“I can’t be in love, Gwen!” You exploded, breath getting harsher every second. “I’m supposed to be a lone wolf, and have thousands of cats, and spend the next few years practicing science before killing myself at exactly 27!”

Slender arms wrapped around your neck, soothing sounds filling your ears as you whimpered. “It’s gonna be okay, I promise there’s nothing wrong with it.”

“But there’s a lot wrong with me,” you lamented on her shoulder.

“There’s nothing wrong with you, don’t say that.”

There was. Your weight, and height, and mental health issues, and past, and how selective you were even though you didn’t deserve what your high standards called for. You went on and on about it, another symptom of your psychiatric issues for sure, crying on the shoulder of the woman you had envied for years.

Gwen felt bad for even telling Harry you were not good for each other, and she felt even worse for having been somewhat right although not in the way she had assumed. It didn’t matter to her anymore if you or Harry had issues or how many, and although she was scared either of you would end up being hurt, she wanted to help — she liked seeing you two together.

“If you don’t want to be in love, why did you start dating him?”

“I didn’t expect to fall for someone I didn’t know well. I didn’t even expect to ever fall in love.” You sniffed, sitting down on the bed once Gwen let you go.

“Does he know?” You shook your head to answer her inquiry. “Why?”

Looking down at your shoes, you confessed, “I’ve always thought he was into you.”

“He wouldn’t be dating you if he was! You’re his first serious relationship,” Gwen tried to remind you, “he opens doors for you, cooks with and for you, walks under the rain to relax you, follows your advice, hugs you when you cry, he knows what makes you feel worse or better, drives you to far away cinemas... he looks at you in a way no one will ever look at me.”

“Peter looks at you in a way no one will ever look at me,” you mumbled. The comment wasn’t halfhearted, but you didn’t care about that anymore.

Gwen hummed. “It’s not the same, you’re Harry’s light. He’s distant to all of us still, you know? And maybe he will always be, with you he’s different — he looks happy with you. And...” she stopped herself for a moment to look for the correct words to not offend you, “and I don’t know if you feel happy, I hope you do, but you look relaxed and comfortable with him. I had never heard you cackle until you started dating him.”

“It’s not real.” You couldn’t keep quiet anymore, it was eating you alive.

“You don’t believe me?”

“My relationship with Harry is not real,” you clarified, avoiding Gwen’s face in shame. “I used to have a crush on Peter, a real one that came and went until Harry and his monotone voice spoke about medicine like talking about the fucking weather and suddenly everything I could process were spicy cologne, full lips, and cherries.”

“You wanted Peter to know how it felt,” she asserted. You hummed, even more ashamed now. “Is your ex-crush on him why you stay at school until he’s finished?”

“Will you tell him?” You asked, wearily.

“No.”

“Tony forced me to keep an eye on him. I wasn’t planning on getting a master’s degree in molecular and cellular biology but it was the easiest way to find a balance between babysitting as I inwardly call it, studying, and working. Subsequently, the crush came back by how much time I spent staring at you two. I think I just felt lonely.” You scoffed at the realization. “Talk about being pathetic.”

Gwen didn’t find it was pathetic. She didn’t think Tony had been considerate enough by putting you undercover like that either. “All of that doesn’t change anything Harry and you do or feel.”

“Only on Harry’s behalf.” You hated how your voice broke, a crack that had nothing to do with your tired throat and everything with the approaching heartbreak.

“Why don’t you ask him?”

You stayed silent for a moment, trying to find a way of explaining yourself. Gwen was looking at you so patiently, as if you were worth her time when you had insulted her in your head so many times for something that wasn’t her fault.

“When I...” you started speaking, swallowing harshly, “when everything happened with Quentin... I did it. I asked him how he felt about me, and now I know his answer wasn’t real. Anyone can lie at any moment and—“ you moved your hand in a motion that didn’t really mean anything. “And I don’t think Harry would lie, but I don’t want to hear his rejection.”

Saying it took a huge weight off your shoulders and drilled a hole in your chest at the same time.

Gwen encouraged you to continue speaking about it if you wanted, and you did. You told her all those things no one knew about your relationship with Quentin, you thought she’d understand. Gwen did understand, and listened, and consoled you, she was just that kind. You couldn’t believe you had once thought she was anything but.

“I’ve always wanted to be like you,” you confessed. As you said it, it dawned on you that you had mixed your jealousy toward her with the admiration you felt. “I don’t know how you do it, but you’re always so nice and look so pretty and everyone seems to love you... and you want to do amazing things for other people which is so awesome!”

Gwen granted you a smile, one of those pretty ones only she could carry. “It takes time to be nice, and it’s difficult sometimes,” she said softly, “beauty is subjective, and you already do amazing things for people, I like that about you. Peter does amazing things for people, Harry wants to save the planet — everyone around us does it in different ways. All of those things you don’t like about yourself are not flaws,” she assured you, taking your hand and squeezing it, “they make you special, whoever thinks of those things as a burden isn’t worth your time or efforts.”

You squeezed her hand back. “But everyone will think they’re a burden, and I’m scared of being alone but I hate saying it,” you rasped a lament.

She rested her head on your arm like you often did against Bucky’s to be comfortable. “You have me, I promise.”

You believed her. Maybe because you wanted to cling to the idea that you could have a friend, but mostly because she hadn’t given you a reason not to do it.

[youremeimyou]

The Bet (pt.2)

Part 1 - Part 2

pairing: Kim Taehyung x Reader genre: fluff, a little more angst than the first part word count: 4k warnings: none other than stressful college life

Description: Taehyung and Y/N have managed to form a strong bond over their years of college. According to their friends, the chemistry between the two is undeniable. But the duo would rather not risk the close friendship. The very friendship that’ll be put to test by the boldest of bets, it seems.

A/N: This part turned out to be more like on the “college au” side of things. I enjoyed writing it so much. The ending parts killed me everytime I read it :’) So I really hope you guys like it. I’d love it if you guys let me know what you think of it. Enjoy!

When Y/N woke up next morning, she didn't feel the least bit rested. Considering it was already next morning when she finally came home and went to sleep, it wasn't that surprising. She grabbed her phone to see if there were any texts from.. well, someone she wouldn't admit to be expecting texts from. Instead, a long list of missed calls from both her parents greeted her on the screen. Do I have to meet them? Do I have to get up and shower right now? Her brain answered yes to both. She quickly got ready and rushed to the little café they always met up at.

"So, how was finals week?"

"Do you have to shout mom?" Her mom wasn't shouting but boy was Y/N hungover. Her parents were confused. Both because she was being a prat and because she was wearing sunglasses inside.

"Sorry. I just have a migraine."

"Oh sweety, didn't you take your medicine. You probably ran out on finals week didn't you?" And bingo. Somehow her mom knew how her daughter struggled with exams and still wanted her to do the best.

"Let's buy you some new ones from the pharmacy down the block."

"It's okay, dad. I'll take care of it. How are you guys doing?"

"We're doing just fine sweety. Your mom made-"

"Let's tell her! I can't wait any longer." Her mom cut in. Then she continued with a wide smile.

"Remember the lab you were talking about last mounth? The one you said you loved the work they did."

"Yeah, BioGrid. Why?"

"You know your dad's friend Ryu used to be the driver of the CEO. And turns out, once he drove his wife to the hospital when she went into early labor and saved her life. Anyway, I saw on the newspaper that they were opening a new lab here in our city. So I had Ryu send them your CV. And they want to have you start as an intern."

"What? Mom when did you- and how did you-" Y/N was confused to say the least with all the information she was fed in just a few seconds. "But, I have school."

"I know, dear. They also know you're still a student. They agreed on making the schedule in a way you can do both. I mean with how well you're doing, damn right they should."

Both her parents had proud looks on their faces. It was endearing. But the fact that no one even thought to ask for her opinion beforehand, frustrated her. She was -like always- just suppossed to find a way to handle both. Always had to exceed expectations let alone meeting them. And yes, she'd really love to work there one day. Not this day though. She already had enough migraines regarding school. But, she wasn't gonna argue. This was a topic she could never be found right about. So she just expressed her gratitude and everyone went on with their brunch.

.........

Y/N's phone screen lit up with back to back messages. She rolled to the other side of her bed to reach it.

Tae: Sorry, I was out at the backyard shooting hoops.

Tae: Didn't hear you call.

Tae: Whassup?

She was relieved he got back to her. Hoping it would mean he wasn't avoiding her.

Y/N: No problem. And nothing's up. I mean something is but I'd rather not text about that right now.

Her phone started ringing a few seconds after she sent the text.

-‘Taetae’ calling...-

"Hey, Tae-"

"What happened?"

"I just wrote that-"

"You said you didn't wanna text about it. So I called. Now, tell me."

Y/N smiled. He always just knew how to make it better. So Y/N told him everything that went down and how she felt about it.

"Sounds to me like a great opportunity. Yet, also a great deal of work, huh?"

"Yeah."

"What're you gonna do?"

"What can I do but comply?"

"You can try to talk to your parents-"

"When has that ever been an option? And I already contacted the lab. They said I start Monday. Monday's like tomorrow!" He could tell she was frowning and scrunching her cute little nose, through the phone. "Anyways, what're you up to?"

"Gotta hit the library from now on. Full-on study week awaits. I've to take the make up test next week for plant bio. After I handed my paper to the teacher after the exam and saw the look on her face, I knew I should've given an empty paper instead of writing any kind of answers."

They both chuckled to that.

"Can't be that bad.." after Taehyung didn't reply for like five seconds, she continued, "can it?"

"Oh, it is." Both giggled again. "I was actually gonna ask you to tutor me this week. But you’re starting the internship. I gotta pull it off by myself somehow."

"No way am I letting you suffer plant bio alone. Of course I'll help you."

"You don't have to really. You already have that nanobiotech article review thing Professor Ling assigned you. When's that due again?"

"Shiiiittt. I forgot about that. That's next week.."

"You should get started on it."

"I will. I mean.. first I gotta find an article to review but I got this. And I'm definetly helping you out." She laughed. It was a nervous laugh but a laugh nonetheless.

"Just get started on your stuff. We'll talk later."

"Okay. Text me when you're headed to the library. Bye."

It turned out the next day was indeed Monday. So Y/N started the internship. BioGrid was really nice. She felt happy to be there, witnessing the new frontiers of her field. First they discussed the schedule, then they started working. She never imagined her first day to be this tiring.

After the busy first experience, Y/N finally got on the bus home. She felt her phone vibrate in her pocket. It was a set of links sent from Taehyung. All the links were of articles related to nanobiotechnology. She felt her heart flutter.

It was Friday and the week went by in a blink of an eye for Y/N. She was so busy all the time. She mostly went to sleep with headaches and woke up with them still there. Only could drop by the school for a few classes. Oh yes, she was also taking summer school for extra credit. It was easily the most worn out she had ever been. But she was glad she made it to the 9.15 class today, In hopes to finally see Taehyung who she hadn't seen whole week. So naturally, it was dissappointing when he didn't show. As she was walking out of the class she saw the announcement paper hanging on the notice board.

'Classrooms determined for Saturday's Plant Biology make up test'

Holy shit. Y/N completely forgot about tutoring Taehyung. She quickly called him but no response. Again and again she called as she practically ran to his apartment but he never picked up. Once she knocked on his door, she heard someone else alongside Taehyung's familiar voice through it. Then, there was the sound of footsteps getting closer and closer until the door opened.

"Y/N? Hey-"

"I know we only have one day, well even less than a day till the test but we can do this." Y/N brushed past Taehyung and let herself in. "Now step aside and let me force every single bit of knowledge I have upon you abou-"

She swallowed the rest of her sentence when her gaze met Jessie's who was sitting comfortably on Taehyung’s couch.

"Oh, see Taetae? And you thought smartypants forgot about you."

Jessie was being her usual irritating ass self towards Y/N. Y/N didn't have any beef with her, though. She was just another chick who’s sore about the fact Taehyung spent more time with Y/N more than any of the girls in school. Y/N knew being hated by most girls on campus came with the Taehyung friendship package.

"I never said that. And don't be annoying, Jess."

Jess? Really? What happened to Jessica or even Jessie at this point?

"What are you guys-"

“I’m teaching Taehyung stuff.” No one spoke for a brief moment. Because this was definetely not something anyone would consider normal. So, Y/N was kinda right to be baffled.

“Yeah well, who knew? Jess knows school stuff and she can share it with others. Wow, right?”

Jess. Tch….

Jessie just glared at him. “I guess you know all you can fathom at this point. I’m done here.” She started walking towards the exit. She stopped suddenly and turned back to say something she forgot to. “Breathe a word of this me tutoring thing to anyone and you can probably guess that it’ll be ugly.” And with that being said, she walked out.

“So.. are you really ready for the test?”

“As ready as I can be, I guess. I almost peed my pants when Jessie said she could help. But she really knows her stuff, I gotta say. Guess plants are just her thing.”

“I did see her trying to hide her results paper in plant bio once.”

“Yeah, that sounds like her. Hiding good grades to keep from ruining her reputation.” Taehyung smiled. And Y/N couldn’t believe how much that annoyed her. It was just a simple comment about the girl and a simple smile. And Y/N didn’t understand why but she was openly hurt.

“Why didn’t you call me Tae?” she asked with a frown.

“I knew you were busy.”

“I can unbusy myself for you. You know that. Instead you go to Jessica. No wait, what was it? Oh right, Jess.”

Her voice contained anger and dissappointment. And it was coming on much too stronger than she intented to.

“I told you she was the one who offered to help-“

“Yeah, because you confided in her. Not me, not any of our other friends but your Jess.” She practically yelled this part. And as soon as the words came out, she regretted every single one. Y/N knew it was her that messed up, not Taehyung. She supposedly came here to apologize but what greeted her when she came in made her see red. And the rest was history.

“She’s not my Jess. That’s not and will never be a thing.” Taehyung on the other hand remained calm. Even through the bitchy exterior, he knew Y/N was just stressed. He couldn’t bring himself to be angry with her when she had dark circles around her eyes like that.

“And speaking of our other friends, hyungs were asking about you the whole week. So was Chungha. I thought you would’ve at least talked to her at some point.”

Y/N couldn’t speak to anyone lately. Not even her best friend as Taehyung pointed out.

“Anyways, they figured out we hung out last Saturday. The hyungs gave me a ton of crap cuz they didn’t see you since like last month or something and I didn’t take ‘em with us to the party.”

Y/N knew she had a lot to make up for. It was true that she didn’t really hang out with her friends for almost a month. First it was the finals week, now she had the internship. It was starting to get really lonely.

“How are you doing with the article review? I hoped I could take some of the weight of your shoulders but I doubt the ones I sent were helpful.”

Taehyung continued the conversation like the arguement never happened. He wasn’t making eye contact with Y/N though. He went to sit on the table and looked out the window. The way sunshine landed on his face and made the brown locks of his hair seem blonde was perfect. The way his long eyelashes brushed his cheekbones as he blinked was perfect. There he was being all beautiful in front of her. She wasn’t supposed to feel this way.

“Once again, I forgot about that assignment. But the second one you sent was perfect, actually. I’ll go on from that. I only have to clean two labs and write reports on the devices in those labs before, that’s all.”

“Wow. I hope you get paid for that shit.” He smiled a beautiful smile and their eyes met.

“Not enough, if you ask me.” She returned it with a grin.

“Try not to forget about the artice again.” His smile became a part frown to show his worry for a quick moment. Then he broke the eye contact again and continued looking out the window. Y/N felt like it was time to go.

“I’ll see you after your test. We should gather everyone to hang.”

He replied with a nod.

“Good luck.”

She went home after that. And announced a gathering in the group chat as promised.

-‘Chungha monster’ calling…-

“Before you yell, I’m sorry I didn’t check in with you since forever Chungs.”

“You think I’ll yell about that when there’re more important things? You went out on a date with Taehyung!”

“It wasn’t a date! This is why we don’t invite you guys anymore-“

“Yeah yeah, sure. I heard from Cho that he was all over you, so spill.”

“And he said there wouldn’t be anyone there who knew us.”

“Why? So you could do piravate stuf-“

“Chungs stop!” Y/N felt flustered.as.fuck.

“Fine, I’ll force the details out Monday when we meet. I missed our gatherings. Good thing you planned it.”

“I know, me too. See you then!”

Swiftly, the weekend went by with Y/N cramped up in a ton of work again. On her mind was Taehyung. How’d he do for the test? Why hasn’t he called since last time? And why do I miss him like this? She decided to give him space after going kinda crazy on him last time. She just had to wait till Monday. And Monday came but Y/N didn’t know cuz she was still stuck at the lab. In fact she couldn’t go home Sunday night, watching over some plants crucial to an experiment. 

This internship had a way of making her lose track of time. Until she saw the 38 missed calls from Chungha. Then she asked for the rest of the day off and ran to her best friend’s aparment.

“Sorry I’m late you guys. I missed you sooo much.” As soon as she walked in, the gang gave her a collective hug. Then each of them scolded her for being absent for such a long time. Especially Jin, he gave like a whole lecture on it.

Jungkook, Jimin and Hoseok trapped her between their bodies and took a bunch of selfies, calling it her punishment. Y/N was giggling as she tried to free herself from three koala bears. Once she finally managed to do so, she gave them a questioning frown.

“Where’s Taetae?”

Jungkook and Jimin immediately looked at each other, then on the ground. Hoseok just shrugged.

“He cancelled last minute. Family thing I guess. We were gonna celebrate him passing plant bio but sadly he can’t make it.” Chungha answered. Y/N’s heart sank. She waited all weekend to give him space. But now it felt like he was out of reach. Even though he was calm and collected last time they saw each other, she felt like he was distant. After what happened at the party, Y/N was more drawn to him then ever before. Like a switch was flipped and she wasn’t able to put away the attaction she felt like she used to be. But he was acting like it didn’t even happen. Like nothing changed for him. It drove her crazy.

“Oh, Y/N. Proffesor Ling told me she loved the review you sent her. She just couldn’t put in the marks due to a problem in the system. She says grades will be up there in a few days.”

“What? I didn- I mean I forgot about that again and I- but how-“

“Girl, you’re blabbering. Let’s start the movie guys.”

Y/N didn’t even focus for a moment during the movie. She checked her mail and saw that the article review was indeed sent. But it wasn’t her who did that. Apperently it wasn’t Chungha either so that left only one person. The one guy that wasn’t here right now. The guy who made Y/N’s heart beat out of her chest.

After the movie everyone went their own way. It was already dark outside. Despite being tired Y/N didn’t want to go home. Ever since she started as an intern, it felt like she had no time to do stuff. She decided to take a stroll down the riverside. Tonight was also too breezy to be a summer night and Y/N didn’t have a coat, again. The river happened to be really close to Taehyung’s place. Would you look at that coincidence! There was nothing more Y/N wanted than to see him at that moment. So she went to his place and knocked his door, waiting anxiously.

A messy haired, puffy faced, confused looking Taehyung opened the door. Great, now I wanna snuggle up to him.

“Were you sleeping? Sorry-“

“Hey, no it’s okay.” His voice deep and raspy, its affect on Y/N indescribable. “What’re you doing here?”

“Umm.. I was just by the river and it got kinda chilly but I couldn’t find a cab and I thought you might be up but you must be tired I should’ve just-“

“Breath Y/N. Come in.”

Taehyung plumped down on the couch. Y/N sat next to him a second later. But like really next to him. No space kinda next to him. Taehyung’s gaze was fixated on the floor. Until he jumped up suddenly. “I’ll make some coffee or something.”

“Did you do my assignment and send it to Professor Ling?”

Taehyung paused for a moment. “You remember how you logged in to your account on my phone? Well, it kinda stayed there. And I just wanted to check if you sent anything and saw you didn’t. So you know, I mean you already said you liked the second article I sent y-“

“Breath Tae.” they laughed after that and the mood lifted up thanks to it. But Taehyung kept busying himself on the counter and not making eye contact with Y/N still.

“I can’t thank you enough. I wish you would’ve called me and reminded me instead of going through all that trouble.”

“You already had a lot to do. And you had already forgotten about it despite me reminding you like 8 times. I just scrabbled some stuff, it wasn’t like any trouble. Let’s hope you actually get a good mark.”

“Professor Ling loved it. And she never gives compliments to me. It must’ve been more than a scrabble.”

Taehyung actually made a lot of effort. More effort than he ever made for his own work. Not that he’d admit it to her face right now.

“So how was your day?”

“Oh, I didn’t do much. In fact I don’t think I even got out today. Kinda feeling under the weather a little.”

“Wait. Didn’t you have a family thing?”

Shit. He just exposed himself. He dropped the porcelain mug and cut his hand on the broken pieces.  

“Tae, are you okay?” Y/N ran to him in worry. “Let me see.”

She saw it was bleeding and cleaned the wound for him. Taehyung pointed to the cupboard where first-aid stuff were. She wrapped bandages around his hand. She didn’t let go of his hand when she was done though. She stood there, really close to him and looked him in the eyes. Like trying to transmit a message from her eyes to his. It was just like their many moments back at the party. Full of tension, suspense and longing. Taehyung panicked and stepped away.

“Thanks for the-“

“What’s going on Taehyung? Cuz it seems to me like you’re trying to avoid me. I mean you won’t even make eye contact. And I don’t get it because you’re also looking out for me, doing my assignments for me without even making it known. You’re making me confused. And driving me crazy!”

“I’m driving you crazy? That’s rich.”

“What do you mean-“

“Friends look out for each other don’t they? And since I’m your friend I try to do my part. You know.. as a friend!”

“Taehyung I-“

“And yeah I’m avoiding you. I’m trying to stay the hell away from you because I can’t-“ he paused and lowered his loud volume before he continued. “After the party I just can’t stop thinking about you.”

Y/N felt like her voice was ripped out of her. She wanted to say something, that she also had him on her mind. How she felt so grateful for his help, how she was so sorry for not being around. But she just couldn’t utter a word.

“Look I- it wasn’t just impulses that night. It was a long time coming for me. Because you drive me crazy. But you were right. We’re close friends. You’re practically my best friend. And I can’t lose you. I just have to pull it together.”

“Tae-“

“Don’t feel awkward. Please don’t feel awkward okay?”

“Let me speak dumbass.”

Taehyung couldn’t even look at her. It was unbareable to wait for what was about to come. He, who was a known campus fuckboy -which he may or may not have taken pride in-  never developed these kind of feelings for another girl. Well since they met freshman year, he didn’t really have much emotional availability for other girls. Not like this girl right here. The girl he bought a blue jacket for.

Once again Y/N walked to him but slowly this time. He was standing next to the kitchen counter. She went next to him, leaned back on the counter, then looked at him.

“You won.”

“Wha-“

“You won the bet.”

She could swear she saw Taehyung’s eyes sparkle for a second.

“I did?”

Feeling embarrassed, Y/N lowered her gaze to Taehyung’s chest who was now standing in front of her.

“In a way, you didn’t. Because c’mon, how could I not have developed feelings for you this whole time? It’s just, after the party I couldn’t keep it in anymore. But I thought you were being distant because you thought of it as a mistake or something.” Her voice got smaller towards the end of her sentence.

Taehyung lightly grabbed her chin and made her look up to him. Okay, his eyes are definetely shooting stars. Then, he put his hands on the counter behind her, his arms softly trapping her on both sides.

“You’re looking at me like you’re about to kiss me.”

“What makes you say that?” Taehyung said as he started getting closer.

“Cause last time you were looking at me like that, you almost did.”

He paused. But this time he gave a little chuckle and closed his eyes. Then, their lips met. Y/N melted into the soft, warm and wistful kiss. Taehyung’s lips were honey, they hugged hers perfectly. Y/N moved her hands up from his chest to the back of his head, pulling a little on the tips of his hair. It made Taehyung hum lowly into the kiss and deepen it, pulling Y/N even closer by her waist. Until they finally broke apart to breathe. Taehyung leaned his forehead against hers.

“Wait. This means I have the right to brag about how I made you fall for me for the rest of eternity.”

“But what about the part I romantically declared that I was already in love with you?”

“I’m still telling everyone that I made you fall for me on the dancefloor with my smooth moves, babe.”

Y/N pulled him in for another quick kiss. Taehyung smiled against her mouth.

“I don’t know why we ever worried about ruining our friendship. We get to be best friends who can also make out! How amazing is that?”

“It’s the best idea your smart little brain full of IQ points have ever produced, love.”

Taehyung knew there was no way he’d let her go anywhere tonight after all that.

“So, how ‘bout I get started on that coffee again and you pick an anime for us to binge on my bed till we fall asleep?”

“I wanted to snuggle up to you since I saw you when you opened the door.”

He quickly brushed his nose against hers and then took two mugs from the cupboard.

“Here, you have the blue mug.”

“Yay! I love blue.”

“I know.”

...

Author’s note: I can’t believe I just finished my first fic aAgghhH. If you guys bared with me and read that whole ass thing, thank you so so much I hope you liked it. Once again I”m sorry if there are any mistakes. I wish you all a beautiful dayyyyy :)))

[dinfeanoriel]

Missing Legend Pt. II

Part two of Missing Legend! Linked Universe belongs to Linked Universe and Jojo56830. Be sure to check their art out! 

I own nothing but my writing.  Bit long, over 4K!

~~~~~~~

“Say, what’s with the rabbit?” 

Warrior’s question drew the attention of all Links to the pink bundle huddling in Wild’s protective embrace.

Time quirked an unimpressed eyebrow. Part of him did wonder at the unusual coloring of the rabbit, but the other part of him wondered where in his previous instructions of locating Legend Sky and Wild had determined he’d given them permission to adopt a unique bunny.

Wild’s arms tightened around the rabbit, holding it close to himself. He gave Time those pleading eyes.

Twilight had to look away, lips trembling from the urge to smile and laugh.

Time’s brow rose higher, the eldest of the group seemingly unaffected. 

Sky placed a gentle hand on Wild’s forearm, turning to face Time and speaking on the younger Hero’s behalf, 

“We rescued him from a terrible man,” He briefly explained, eyes flickering as he recalled the hunter from before, “Wild didn’t want to part from him and the rabbit was reluctant to leave him also.”

Time refrained from sighing aloud.

The look Wild wore grew more pitiful.

Why?

Why him? 

“Wild,” Time pinched the bridge of his nose, his only good eye sliding shut in fond exasperation, and just when Wild was about to turn to Twilight for help, he said, “You can stop with the kicked puppy look.”

Wild brightened. Did that mean-?

“You can keep the rabbit,” Time conceded, and the whites of Wild’s teeth flashed as he grinned. The leader had to fight not to smile in return. 

“But,” He raised a finger, “You are solely responsible for him. I don’t know how well the rabbit can handle our constant travelings and skirmishes, however, if you think you can handle caring for him, then I see no issue in allowing you to keep him.”

Wild’s smile broadened, silently thanking Time. Time purposefully averted his gaze, wondering what in Hylia’s name he’d done to deserve this. He narrowed his gaze on a chuckling Twilight, who’s hand was pressed against his mouth in a futile attempt to suppress the traitorous snickers.

“He’s your responsibility too, Pup,” Time lowly added, giving Twilight’s shoulder a squeeze. The Orodonian sputtered and shot Time an incredulous look.

“Mine?!”

Time didn’t deign him with a response, instead waving a hand nonchalantly in the air and heading for the forest surrounding them.

“Come along now, we have a Legend to find.”

The grimness from before returned and the Heroes quickly followed after their leader. 

“If Wolfie couldn’t find him, how can we expect to find him?” Warrior overheard Hyrule softly asking himself. The Knight looked to see Hyrule fiddling with his hands, worry and concern shining in his dark eyes. The Links knew Hyrule idolized Legend, having heard many tales revolving around him growing up in his world. He’d been incredibly excited when they learned they would be working alongside him in order to stand against Dark Link. 

When they’d met Legend, all of the Links had been thrown off by the snarky and outspoken Hero. Hyrule didn’t seem to notice- or he just didn’t care. 

Oddly enough, the two had become...friends? Warrior supposed he could call them that. Legend looked out for Hyrule. He looked out for all of them in a less noticeable fashion. Once you learned to read between the lines and deeper into Legend’s sarcastic words or snarky comments, you found the hidden truth. You saw what Legend wasn’t outwardly revealing. 

It had taken some time for the Knight to realize this. 

Warrior also realized just how much he missed his and Legend’s bantering. Not one day passed without them tossing scathing remarks or jabs at one another. They never meant any of it. It was mostly for fun and to pass time. 

Warrior shook himself from his thoughts. He needed to stay focused. Finding Legend was the top of their priority, but...

His gaze slid over to Hyrule, withholding a sigh at the nervousness and worry Hyrule did his best to hide. 

He knocked the shorter Hero on the head with his fist, 

“Don’t think so negatively,” He told Hyrule when the younger of the two looked to him in confusion, “We’ll find him.” 

Hyrule didn’t know why, but hearing the confident statement comforted him. Before he could thank Warrior for his words, a sudden weight landed on his head nearly knocked him off balance. When he looked, he saw the face of the pink bunny Wild and Sky had rescued peering down at him, clucking and thumping his foot on his head. 

Warrior laughed at the look Wild wore as he blinked down at his empty arms then to the rabbit on Hyrule’s head in disbelief. The distance between himself and Hyrule, while not extensive, was still quite far, but the rabbit had covered it with hardly any effort.

Twilight smirked from where he stood with his arms crossed, impressed. 

“That takes coordination and remarkable aim.” He remarked. Time cuffed him lightly on the back of his head. 

“Only you would find that feat impressive.” 

Twilight made to retort but stopped when he saw Time watching the rabbit intensely. 

“There is something unusual about that rabbit,” Time murmured to Twilight, leaning closer, “He’s intelligent. You can see it in his eyes that he understands us. Not to mention that pink bunnies are supposedly nonexistent.” 

“What are you thinking?” Twilight whispered in question, studying the rabbit alongside his mentor. 

Time frowned, “I’m not sure...Just keep a close eye on him and Wild.”

Twilight curtly nodded. Time drew back, satisfied. 

“Is he comforting Hyrule?” Wind asked, stars in his eyes. “That is so adorable!” 

Four could only shake his head at the bedazzled Hero. 

Hyrule carefully reached up, shyly grabbing the bunny and taking him into his arms. The bunny bumped his nose with his paw, as if telling Hyrule not to worry so much. For whatever reason, Hyrule felt even better. 

He hugged the bunny close to him, a small, grateful, smile appearing on his lips. 

The rabbit wheezed, eyes wide at the crushing embrace, but didn’t dare move. 

Time never once looked away from him.

~~~~~~~

Hours of searching unsuccessfully passed. The Heroes refused to give up despite the sense of discouragement slowly seeping in. They looked all through the afternoon and far into the night, separating into groups and calling upon Wolfie once more to find Legend.

They had no idea how much time had passed until a new dawn began to approach. The sun could be seen peeking from behind the distant mountains, outlining the snow-capped ridges a crimson red. Light chased away the dreary black and greys clinging to the landscapes, forcing the shadows to recede back into the forests and beneath the outcrops of rocks and boulders.

Wild had tucked the rabbit into his pack, removing various items to give him some space to move and make himself comfortable. It made it easier than leaving the rabbit to hop after them. 

The bunny hardly budged. His head appeared from beneath the flap of the pouch, chin hooked over the edge and dark eyes examining their unfamiliar surroundings. His ears drooped as his nose twitched. 

Wolfie often flashed him curious looks. 

There were times Wild would catch a low rumble coming from the back of Wolfie’s throat as he tried communicating to the rabbit. When this would happen, the pink bunny would vanish into the pack and not emerge until minutes had passed and he deemed it safe to return. 

Guess he’s not quite comfortable with you, Wild signed to Wolfie. Wolfie grumbled in response.

Scary wolf. Wild teased. 

This earned him an indignant look. I am not scary.

You always look so fierce.

I do not!

Wild raised a disbelieving eyebrow at Wolfie. The rabbit’s head poked out again and Wild absentmindedly pat his head.

“We need a name for him,” Four piped up, startling Wild momentarily. He’d forgotten Four had teamed with them- he being the only other Hero, excluding Time, to know Wolfie’s secret. “Calling him ‘him’ or ‘bunny’ or ‘rabbit’ is a bit redundant and boring, don’t you think?” 

Although Wolfie’s name isn’t that much better, Four added in his mind. He kept that remark to himself, however, seeing as it had been Wind who’d enthusiastically given Wolfie his name. 

Wild pondered Four’s words and nodded in agreement. He looked down at the bunny, considering.

The rabbit returned the stare, fixing Wild with a look that clearly stated,

You’d better not give me some stupid name like ‘Wolfie.’

Wild grinned, a gleam entering his eye.

This, the rabbit found he didn’t quite like. He flashed Wild a warning look.

Don’t you dare-

“Skittles!”

Wolfie snorted, coughing as if he were trying valiantly not to laugh.

The bunny- now dubbed Skittles- looked absolutely horrified. He disappeared into the pack and Wild felt tiny paws punching his side at lightning speed.

“Hey!” Wild lifted the wriggling pack from his hip, “It’s better than Bubble Bean!” He defended himself against the furious bunny. 

Four choked and Wolfie stumbled.

“Bubble Bean?” The shortest Hero coughed, striking his fist against his chest as he attempted to recover himself.

Skittles reappeared, glowering fiercely at Wild.

“Would you prefer Sugar and Spice?” Wild suggested. The look intensified. Four had to admit he was impressed by Skittles’ fierceness. For such a cute, floofy, bunny, he certainly looked capable of throttling Wild. “Timber Toast?”

“Skittles!” Four wheezed. In his mind, he could hear Vio, Blue, and Red losing themselves at the names Wild had suggested. “Skittles is perfect!”

Wolfie rumbled in agreement, nodding vigorously. Skittles clucked his teeth, paws flailing in the air indignantly.

“Sure?” Wild asked them, “I have several more names readily available.”

As curious as Wolfie and Four were to discover what other...creative...names Wild had stored away, they assured him that Skittles was a very fitting name for an adorable and temperamental, pink, bunny.

And so it was from that time forth, the bunny was referred to and addressed as Skittles.

Skittles slouched, depressed, paws dangling in the air. Wild, however, was grinning widely.

Wolfie rumbled again and Skittles turned his head towards him, one ear flicking in his direction. Wolfie made various sounds, pitching his growls and rumblings as he spoke to the despondent animal. Cobalt blue eyes darted meaningfully up towards Wild then back to Skittles. Skittles looked also, taking in the light smile Wild wore and the glimmer in his eyes.

He studied the happiness and contentment etched onto Wild’s features for a long moment then released a defeated sigh. Skittles’ nose twitched as the bunny made a small sound and slumped his shoulders. Wolfie flashed him the best grin he could manage in his form.

The corner of Four’s lips curved upwards.

Twilight, always looking out for Wild.

“Say, Wild,” Four spoke up again when silence fell, “Where did you find Skittles?”

Skittles’ gaze peevishly rolled his way, huffing indignantly. Four felt as if he’d had that look directed towards him once before...

It was eerily familiar...

Wild pat Skittles’ head, “A hunter trapped him.” A hint of anger seeped into his tone and Wolfie glanced towards him, “Sky got caught in one of the traps- oh!” Wild paused mid-stride as a thought struck him, “We forgot to purchase new boots for him!”

Ah, yes, Four had noticed the puncture holes in Sky’s right boot. He’d wondered about them, but didn’t ask questions considering the circumstances. It didn’t appear Sky had cared all that much, either. All that mattered was finding Legend. 

“I suppose that doesn’t really matter right now,” The quiet spoken Hero murmured to himself before continuing his story, “The trapper put Skittles into a cramped, rusty cage and planned on keeping him rather than killing him.” Wild’s hand curled protectively around Skittles’ neck, “I couldn’t let him. I couldn’t leave Skittles with him. Skittles’ foot was in bad shape- mutilated beyond recognition.” Wild grimaced as he recalled the disfigured rabbit’s foot Sky’s fairy had generously healed. “He was in so much pain…”

“So you and Sky rescued him.” Four finished for him, and Wild nodded.

“Sky convinced the Hunter to sell him to us.” A smirk grew on Wild’s lips as he remembered just how Sky had ‘convinced’ the man to let them buy Skittles. “Didn’t give him much of a choice, really.”

Sky could really put his foot down when he wanted to. 

Four had a feeling there was more to the story than Wild was telling, but he didn’t press for details. They were, after all, searching for a missing Link. But it helped him to keep his mind preoccupied.

Suddenly, Wolfie stiffened, head snapping up.

Wild and Four stilled immediately.

“What is it?” Four lowly asked, creeping closer to them. His fingers loosely curled around the hilt of his Four Sword, ready to unsheathe it at a moment’s notice.

Wolfie sniffed the air then bolted to the left, flying past Wild. Wild and Four didn’t hesitate to follow him. Hope blossomed in their chests as they expertly chased after the great beast.

Had he caught Legend’s scent? Had they found him?

Poor, helpless, Skittles was flung back into the pack and left to bounce around as Wild ran. 

They stopped once they emerged into a small clearing.

Wolfie scoured the area with his nose pressed to the ground, sniffing diligently and tracking whatever scent he’d caught.

“Legend?” Wild dared to ask when Wolfie paused. Wolfie dipped his head but there was a worried glint in his eyes neither Hero failed to catch.

“What is it?” Four asked before Wild had a chance to. Wolfie’s head disappeared into a large flower brush nearby, teeth clinking against metal. When he reappeared, he held a familiar rod that caused Four and Wild’s hearts to drop. 

“Legend’s Fire Rod.” Wild murmured, taking hold of the staff. Skittles popped out from the pack, dazed and indignant. 

When he saw what Wolfie had, however, all he could do was release a dismayed cluck. 

Wolfie sharply looked to him. He barked...

...but Skittles remained silent. 

~~~~~~~

Time watched Hyrule cradle Legend’s Fire Rod in his hands as the grim Heroes circled around the campfire. 

The atmosphere hanging o’er the encampment was dismal and troubled. It had been with great reluctance that the group had settled in for the night.

Wind was seated in Warrior’s lap, the elder of the two’s arms wrapped loosely around him as they stared blankly into the fire. The miserable and sad look Wind wore tore at Time’s heart to see. The young sailor was usually so optimistic, bright, and cheerful, but with Legend’s mysterious and worrying disappearance, he had grown quiet and sullen.

Around this time, Sky would have already been slumbering away, but this night, he found himself to sleep. He was resting against a log, arms crossed, and worry clinging to his features. Next to him was Four. The smallest Hero had taken to sitting on the log, back bent and hands dangling over his knees. His lips were tightly pursed together, brow creased as a look of deep thought stole over his youthful visage. 

There was no murmuring to be heard from him that night.

Twilight, still in wolf form, was lying nearest Time, head pillowed on his paws and cobalt blue eyes fixed on the forest. His ears often twitched as he listened to sounds that could not be heard by Hylian ears.

Time knew what Twilight was doing. Although they both knew it was useless, Twilight never stopped and Time didn’t tell him to.

Wild was silently preparing a meal for them to eat and Time noticed his eyes would often dart to where Legend would normally sit. His spot was empty. 

There were no snarky remarks, no lighthearted jabs, or bantering. No stories being shared, tales being told, or memories of times past.

All was unnervingly quiet.

Time did not like it. He did not like any of this. Legend was gone. His Fire Rod had been found, spelling trouble for the Heroes. Something had befallen their companion, their friend, and they didn’t know what. They didn’t know whether or not Legend was hurt, whether he was near or far from them, or if he were alive..

No.

Legend had to be alive. Possibly hurt, but still alive. Time would believe in this. Legend was too stubborn and resourceful to die.

Where was he? Why hadn’t they been able to find anything that could lead them to him? Twilight had been unable to relocate Legend’s scent, informing Time of how his scent had simply vanished. This did not bode well with Time. Then Wild, Wolfie, and Four return with Legend’s Fire Rod in hand…

According to Wild and Four, there had been no signs of a struggle or battle, so why had Legend drawn his Fire Rod? Perhaps a light-footed enemy had caught him by surprise? Had struck too quickly for Legend to react?

But no. That couldn’t possibly be it. Legend was one of the swiftest of the Heroes to move and react. He was experienced, senses and reflexes honed. Someone Time could tell had seen and done plenty in his short lifetime.

He hid it well, but there was a bitterness, forlornness, and weariness in Legend’s eyes Time recognized and understood, for he saw it in his own each and every time he would glance at his reflection.

Time quietly sighed as he raked his gaze across the camp once more. The lack of activity and conversation only amplified the fact that one of their own was missing. They felt his absence keenly.

Deciding he had had enough of the silence, Time turned his head to face Wild and his eyes fell upon the pink bunny nestled beside the Hero.

Ah...A perfect excuse to strike up a conversation.

It was mostly a distraction, but Time could care less at the moment.

“Have you given your rabbit a name, Wild?”

Wild blinked slowly, taking a moment to realize Time had addressed him. He lifted his chin and faced Time for a brief moment before his gaze settled on the bunny hunched next to him. He smiled faintly and nodded.

Wolfie snorted and Four coughed lightly into his hand.

This sparked intrigue among their fellow Heroes.

Wind perked up, “What did you name him?” He curiously asked. Time felt a tendril of happiness spark upon hearing his voice.

The rabbit glared up at Wild.

Go on, Time could almost imagine it saying, Why don’t you tell them what horrible name you’ve given me?

He felt an odd pang in his chest at the odd thought.

That was definitely something Legend would have said.

“Skittles.” Wild answered. A smile grew on Sky’s lips and Warrior had to muffle a laugh. Wind brightened considerably, grinning toothily.

“Aw! That’s such a cute name!”

Wild shot Four and Wolfie a triumphant look.

See? He signed to them, They like what I named him!

Warrior could have sworn Wolfie rolled his eyes...but that couldn’t be possible.

Hyrule studied the pink rabbit with a hint of melancholy. He remembered the small stories Legend would whip up whenever Hyrule couldn’t sleep at night or was adjusting to being with eight other Heroes. He would weave tales of a helpless, pink, rabbit that had to survive in a dark world teeming with monsters and nightmares lingering around every corner. 

If only Legend could see for himself that pink rabbits actually existed and weren’t something he’d made up. 

“It fits him.” Hyrule finally remarked, and he could have sworn Skittles was studying him intently. 

“It was better than the other names Wild suggested.” Four piped up, a grin lining his lips. “I think one of them was Bubble Butt or something.”

Warrior snorted while Wind burst out laughing. Sky was chuckling to himself, Wolfie coughed and hacked, and Hyrule smothered another smile behind his hand. Even Time cracked an amused grin. 

Wild was momentarily indignant and Skittles absolutely appalled by the possibility of being given such a name.

“Bubble Bean, Four, not Bubble Butt!” Wild corrected, jabbing his wooden ladle at the Hero. Four waved a hand dismissively in the air.

“My bad.”

But Time could tell from the satisfied gleam in his eyes that he’d purposefully butchered the name. He gave a light grin, appreciation swelling in his chest. Four had done it to lighten the mood, and he’d succeeded. It wouldn’t last, but it was enough for now.

“The other was Timber Toast,”

“Timber Toast?” Warrior echoed, incredulous. “Where do you come up with these names?!”

Time wouldn’t admit it, but he also wanted to know.

“And the last?” He inquired instead, coaxing Wild to talk a little more.

“Sugar and Spice.” Wild promptly replied, petting Skittles fondly.

Skittles was disgruntled, making an iconic little bunny face Time found rather amusing. He hadn’t even thought it possible for bunnies to glower- but this one sure could.

“Ah, I would have gone with that one.” The leader told them, waving a finger.

The Heroes turned to him.

“Really?” Wild asked, and Skittles clucked indignantly. Wind hummed thoughtfully,

“Well,” The sailor began, tapping his chin, “If you think about it, Skittles can be sweet and adorable one minute, and then fierce and feisty the next, so it does make sense.” He nodded sagely and leaned back against Warrior’s chest, making himself comfortable.

The two really were more like brothers than anything else, Time observed.

Skittles’ nose twitched and he shifted, practically glaring at Time. Wild suddenly slid a hand beneath him and lifted him up to his shoulder, sparing a moment to pet him as the pot boiled.

Time narrowed his eye on the rabbit in return.

Something about that animal struck him as odd. The animal was far too intelligent for its own good. It sort of reminded him of Wolfie, but then again, Time knew Wolfie was Twilight, so of course he was smarter than every other animal in the world.

“I was thinking more along the lines of his unusual coloring and foul personality.”

Skittles growled and Wolfie peeked an eye open.

Wild pat Skittles’ head.

“There there,” He soothed the seething rabbit, “Don’t listen to the Old Man.”

Time raised an eyebrow but Wild ignored him.

“I’m sure he would make for a delightful meal.” 

“Pops!” Wind scandalously gasped and Wild had to tighten his hold on the murderous Skittles that fought to lunge at Time.

~~~~~~~

Later that night, when the Heroes turned in and Four had taken first watch, Skittles lie waiting.

He’d been scheming for this precise moment. For when the Heroes were asleep and oblivious to the outside world. 

He’d been tucked close to Wild, the teen curled up on his side and arms loosely wrapped around the bunny as he slept. Wolfie was lying protectively next to Wild, tail shielding his eyes as he rested.

Sugar and Spice indeed, Skittles thought darkly to himself, glaring at the peaceful form of Time across from him. His nose twitched as his previous ire returned and an evil plan entered his mind.

He snickered to himself. The Old Man needed to be taught a lesson. He was no helpless bunny.

No. He was not just any bunny. He was smart, resourceful, and quite vengeful.

Now, was the perfect time for him to extract his revenge. Without anyone to hold him back, he was free to do as he pleased. Carefully slipping himself from Wild’s hold, Skittles ducked under an arm and gently lowered it to the ground.

He froze when Wild shifted, confusion furrowing his brow until Skittles had bundled up a nearby cloth and tucked it carefully into his hold. Wild settled, hugging the bundle close to him.

Skittles nodded to himself, pleased. He ignored the strange, warm, feeling that grew within him when he recalled the kindness and gentleness Wild had treated him with. He tried not to think of the bubbliness that arose whenever Wild would draw him close in a loose embrace or rest a hand on his back or head.

Feelings he remembered experiencing years ago...

He stubbornly squashed them and stomped them down. It was better this way. He didn’t want to end up disappointed or hurt again. He was tired of it all, and so he maintained a distance from it all. He feigned indifference.  

He’d grown desensitized.

At least...He’d thought he had.

Vigorously shaking his head, ears flapping, Skittles banished the thoughts from his mind and quietly made his way across the encampment. He scooted past the glowing campfire, its ambient light causing his pink fur to shimmer.

“And what do you think you’re doing?”

Skittles jumped, startled by the curious voice and whipped around to see Four peering at him questioningly.

“He has that look on his face,” Four commented aloud, his voice slightly altered and eyes flashing a different colour.

“Mischievous.” Another voice.

“He’s up to no good.”

“Would you guys please be quiet?” Four grumbled, raking a weary hand through his golden-blonde hair.

Skittles would have raised an eyebrow if he could, but instead settled for giving the small Hero a confused and slightly concerned look.

Four understood it and grinned ruefully. “Voices,” He vaguely explained, tapping his temple, “In my head.”

Skittles leaned back, weirded out.

Four rolled his eyes with a huff of laughter, “I’m not crazy, if that’s what you’re thinking.” 

“You’re talking to a fluffy, pink, rabbit, Green,” The second voice from before deadpanned, “I think that qualifies as crazy.”

“It does not!” The third voice retorted. “I talk to animals all the time!” 

“Guys!” Four growled again. “Settle down.”

Skittles blinked at him.

Four suppressed a groan, tapping the Four Sword that rested across his knees.

“It’s weird,” He murmured, studying Skittles closely, “It’s clear that you can understand our speech…” he tilted his head thoughtfully, “Quite like Wolfie.”

Skittles did not react, but Four saw his dark eyes flicker.

“Animals are more intelligent than they are given credit for,” A bored voice tumbled past Four’s lips, and Four gave an exasperated sigh.

Skittles didn’t know why. Maybe it was because he was an animal and was experiencing heightened animal senses, but he could tell it wasn’t Four speaking. His eyes would change colour, and his expression would alter slightly with each new voice he spoke in.

Four different personalities skillfully hidden behind Four’s persona.

A sudden thought struck Skittles then and there.

Four.

Perhaps he wasn’t called Four because he wielded the Four Sword, but because he had a split personality?

Oh boy…

“You guys are not helping me at all,” Four grumbled, “It’s bad enough everyone thinks I’m crazy.”

You are, Skittles deadpanned, but he shrugged it off. He supposed he’d seen weirder and darker things in his life.

“I’m not crazy,” Four found himself telling Skittles, “My constant mumblings and changes in personality have to do with this lovely thing,” He explained, patting the Four Sword.

Skittles supposed it made sense. Although he didn’t understand what exactly the Four Sword had to do with it, he supposed it was called ‘Four Sword’ for a reason. As curious as he was to learn more about it and Four’s strange shifts in persona, Skittles wouldn’t pry.

Not that he could anyway. 

“So,” Four straightened, fixing Skittles with a raised eyebrow, “What were you doing?”

Skittles raised his paws and lifted his shoulders in a shrug. An eerily human-like gesture. 

He appeared all too innocent.

“I know you’re up to something.”

Skittles rolled his eyes.

Your powers of observation are astounding.

He turned away and continued towards Time. Four watched as Skittles paused close to the Old Man and considered him for a moment.

Ah. Then it hit Four. Skittles hadn’t forgotten Time’s earlier remarks.

“Vengeful little animal, aren’t you?” He commented under his breath.

Skittles thought long and hard about what he would do.

And when he finally settled for an idea, Skittles set to work. 

[potteresque-ire]

Daenerys Stormborn, First of Her Name

Here’s my first review post on Game of Thrones! Thank you so much for asking about Daenerys, @bixgirl1, @kikibluemay and @oceaxe-ifdawn. She was fascinating and tragic, and I couldn’t really stop talking about her... as in, I ended up writing a 4k+ word essay on her character.

Due to the length, I’ve crossed-posted to AO3 for those who prefer to read it there: https://archiveofourown.org/works/19119595 . As usual, never feel obliged to do anything! Fandom is a happy, carefree place for me :) .

Before I start, I’d like to say this—I’ve never expected GoT to be progressive. Its medieval aesthetics aside, the gratuitous violence and nudity really seal the deal. Therefore, this review is written decidedly without a social justice lens; I shall not argue if the showrunners were feminists, racists, imperialists etc. Also, I haven’t read the books and have read few metas and reviews; so these are my unfiltered thoughts and of course, my personal opinion. I got interested in Game of Thrones because the snippets I knew of it reminded me of ancient Chinese history, which I loved for its twists, its very blurred lines between truths and myths, its cynical record of human nature, clever strategies and bloodshed. Along this vein, I was, and still am, the most interested in how each contender of the Iron Throne got there, and as the theme of the story emerged (“the lies we spin, our fates they weave” is my way of describing it), the things they told for motivation—the lies and truths that, should they win, would become history.

Of all the contenders and their stories, Daenerys’ rise was the most…mythical and uplifting. She was easy to root for, partly because we’re conditioned to root for heroes like her. The last descendant of a dynasty. Orphan. Exiled, abused, went through her personal journey from little better than a slave to become queen. She even birthed dragons and rode them to war. I really enjoyed the part of her story as the Khaleesi. She grew into a queen in every way, and an ideal one, by the time led her small group of followers across the desert. I loved her—she was strong, resilient, intelligent, righteous. And she understood and respected a culture that was supposedly far below her (as her brother Viserys frequently reminded everyone). 

But then came Astapor, then Yunkai, then Meereen. She became a true ruler, without a Khal by her side… 

I started feeling a little uncomfortable. I was puzzled by that. Her cause was emancipation, one I believe was absolutely correct. Her stance was uncompromising. She walked the walk. Every single one of these traits was beyond admirable, and precious among rulers. Nailing 163 slave masters for 163 children might seem brutal, but the world of GoT *was* brutal. 

And yet, something felt...off.

Then I realized: after all the screen time in Meereen, I remained very much ignorant of the place, other than it practiced slavery. Slavery—and the barbaric practices surrounding it, such as the fighting pits—was presented as the only thing that defined her new constituents in her eyes. This could be by design, to show Daenerys’ “style” as a ruler. This can also be a reflection of the showrunners’ perspectives, their disquiet about tackling slavery for a larger audience.  But if I must judge the show by its own merits and ignore the hands behind it, the repeated shots of Daenerys sitting high in the Great Pyramid, she and her advisors donned in their foreign attire, telling the locals who looked nothing like them, over and over again, that they were wrong… 

She looked like a coloniser. My radars were beeping for that reason. I grew up in a colony, a well cared for one (ie, it would’ve fared far worse if it hadn’t been colonised). Colonialism is therefore an integral part of my life, and my views of it are coloured and educated by the experience. Controversial point: far from a general rule, but I recognise that colonizers can do great good. I’m a beneficiary of that myself. However, I’ve also learned that there’s an art to bringing these great goods to the colonised. One lesson: defining these people, especially when they’re foreign to the ruler, with anything that the ruler is seeking to eradicate — a habit, a tradition, a set of beliefs… —is not a recipe for success. It’s a matter of human pride—the pride of, in this case, the people who’d just suffered defeat. The former ruling class needs to feel some respect, which translates to a sense of security, for any transition of power to be smooth. One may say, the slave masters deserved neither pride nor respect nor security; this is very true, but there was a very practical consideration, one that Daenerys acknowledged: the ultimate goal of conquest is to rule. An un-governable colony won’t change for the better, because it won’t remain a colony for long. In Meereen, as in many real-world colonies, colonisers were few and their constituents were many. Revolts would favour the latter, in particular, the former ruling class who often had both financial and geographical advantages. The Sons of Harpy’s revolt did address that, albeit weakly.

No, I don’t mean Daenerys should yield on the issue of slavery. Lives were at stake and the emancipation had to be immediate. But then, merely insisting this was the right thing to do and punishing offenders with increasing severity, while reinforcing the segregation between the ruling class and the ruled (Daenerys pretty much sequestered herself in the Great Pyramid), was not a direction to take to render the emancipation permanent. Daenerys had to be out there. She had to make serious effort to find common grounds in the 3-way between herself, the former slaves and former slave owners, especially after she’d removed one of the pillars of Meereen’s sociopolitical structure. It didn't matter that the latter were despicable; she had to find a connection. And being a nation that had stood thousands of years, with its wealth and fine architecture, Meereen had got to have something benign and beautiful that Queen Daenerys could embrace, that she could use as a bridge to endear her to her constituents and at the same time, de-emphasize the role of slavery in defining what Meereen was. Wear their clothes. Visit the temples. Whether she actually believed in their gods didn’t matter. Join their festivities—if she did it enough it would matter much less if she skipped the fighting pits. Go to their Flea’s Bottom equivalent (as Margaery Tyrell did in King’s Landing; she would’ve made a good colonial governor). Talk to their craftsman and ask about their traditional crafts. Never for once did Daenerys consider these strategies. She could’ve used Tyrion as her ambassador—his stature and broken language skills, if utilized correctly, could loosen people’s defense, and the parties he’d attend would give him access to the good wines he craved and the setting for him to establish alliances with small talks. If governing foreign lands is indeed an art form, Daenerys didn’t pursue it in Meereen, even though from her time with the Dothrakis, it seemed unlikely that she was ignorant of its necessity (She did eat a horse heart for her Khal and her unborn child).

Again, assuming that the writers were merely following GRRM’s guideposts on her character arc, I had to contend with these possibilities that inform me about Daenerys the Ruler: 1) somewhere in her journey in Essos, she’d lost her ability to empathize with the cultures under her rule. This seemed unlikely. Or, 2) she no longer felt the need to do it, her power no longer derived from a Khal. Either way, with Westeros also being foreign to Daenerys, I started to wonder the kind of ruler she would end up being … 

… and it looked rather similar to the Daenerys in her final scenes, asserting that her moral compass should make the entire Westeros bent their knees. I started to wonder if the show intended this to be a good or bad thing, or something more nuanced, as it should be. My hopes weren’t high—after all, our own western world still retains much of its colonial sensibilities, which would’ve (rightly) praised Daenerys’ role as a Liberator, but would also (sub)consciously downplay her … colonising tendencies. 

Does it mean I see Daenerys as a bad person, or going mad? Not at all. Conflating character and ability to rule is, IMO, one of the major weaknesses of her ending (more on that later); it was also, perhaps ironically, Daenerys’ own fatal mistake. My question is merely one about her fitness to rule, which is itself a fluid thing. War-time rulers require different skills compared to peace-time rulers, conquerors to defenders. The serious contenders of the Iron Throne each had their own strengths, some better suited for rulership and some better for rulership at different times. Stannis was a strong general but was too easily swayed as a ruler. Daenerys was a conqueror. Jon Snow was a diplomat. 

One thing, however, is true and consistent in the world of GoT: to gain power, being morally righteous is not enough. Ned Stark’s detached head brought this point across all too well. Rulers win the hearts of their people. Not the brains, not the logic that decides what is right or wrong. Humans are inherently passionate about power, whether it’s theirs to own or not.

And this is, perhaps, Daenerys Stormborn’s greatest tragedy. She assumed her strict moral compass, along with her birthright and strong will, would be sufficient to take her to the Iron Throne. Her dragons further misguided her in that regard—punishments by Dracarys lent an extra mythical weight and poetry to her judgments, as if she had a higher power, like God, on her side. When she asked Jon Snow if she was to rule with love or fear, she asked as if the two were a dichotomy, seemingly blind to the fact that she had always treaded the line between the two. Love got her the Unsullied, the talents who came far and wide to advise her; fear got her the Dothrakis, the fragile peace in Essos. 

If you’ve read till here (thank you), you may assume I’d defend Daenerys’ decision to burn King’s Landing, or suggest it was foreshadowed. I’d say this: I find it to be within the realms of possibility, but only given my personal opinion about her rule in Meereen. I don’t see it as a botched coin-flip by the Gods, because nothing in her prior judgment suggested madness. Yes, she’d ignored advice before, but no more than, say, Robert Baratheon or Joffrey (Cersei simply killed those who gave her advice she didn’t like). Daenerys’ decision to march to King’s Landing immediately after the Battle of Winterfell—the last major decision she made before the sacking—might not be wise to some but was logically sound. I’d also venture to say this, perhaps in defence of the show’s writers: I’m also not quite sure if the show intended her decision to be a proof of madness. 

Because I’m not sure if the madness told in this show was real at all. 

Because curiously, while the coin flip had been mentioned several times, the show never offered us any concrete, visual evidence that Daenerys had suffered a loss of reason, which defines madness for us who live on Earth in the 21st century. The destruction of King’s Landing was portrayed at the ground level; we didn’t exactly see Daenerys cackling, or enjoying the carnage. Making a terrible decision does not a mad person make. She was seen to be sure of herself in her final scene with Jon Snow—but why shouldn’t she be, when she’d just emerged victorious and achieved her life’s goal, her revenge? If cockiness had been the mark of madness, half of the characters in the show would’ve been mad. 

Even more curious to me is this: people like Ramsey or Joffrey or Cersei, who’d done seriously mad things in our perspective, were never once described as “mad”. The adjective “Mad” had always been reserved for the Mad King. 

How was the Mad King mad then? This is important, because Daenerys supposedly inherited his madness. But the audience hadn’t been given much information. We know The Mad King killed his dissidents, but that seemed to fall within standard monarch behaviour. We know he and his advisors—including, notably, Varys—were at increasing odds with each other, but put a bunch of power-hungry men with immense power imbalance in the same room and that would happen more likely than not. He killed Ned Stark’s father and brother in a confrontation—so he was vengeful, distrustful, and brutal, yes, just like Joffrey or Cersei, but still, nothing that spoke particularly of madness. He was said to want King’s Landing destroyed, but the act was never realized; we only learned of his intentions via Jaimie. He set up the network of wildfires, which were terrible weapons but also … traditional in the Targaryen dynasty, if wildfires had indeed been invented as replacements of Dracarys. So how mad was actually the Mad King then, compared to his ancestors? Or was he called Mad only because he lost his game of thrones, and history was written by victors? When Varys claimed to be worried about Daenerys’ state—when he hinted at her madness and being a bad coin flip—was he merely repeating the same lies that had been told about her father, with the purpose of setting up a chain reaction that would propel Jon Snow to the Iron Throne, as the same lies had helped justify and cement Robert Baratheon’s reign? Varys might have been trying to feed Daenerys something. A “crazy potion”, maybe?  

Yes, I know. I’m probably reading too much into this. It’s my wishful thinking, perhaps, to not see Daenerys as mad (or the writers writing her as mad) because that would’ve taken away her agency. Because Daenerys’ character arc doesn’t deserve an ending equivalent to death by a falling flowerpot. Because, if her sacking of King’s Landing was meant to be the Shock of Season 8, she must retain her agency. It’s shocking because a good person did it. A good person is good only when she has the agency to make terrible mistakes.

So how am I reading Daenerys’ decision to sack King’s Landing? If I were to ignore all inputs outside the show—I don’t know if the showrunners had commented on anything—this is how I would “bridge the gap”, so to speak; how I’d imagine the thoughts running through Daenery’s mind as the bells rang, behind the few seconds the camera focused on Emilia Clark’s face in the show. I believe the series of tragedies Daenerys had suffered (losing Jorah, Missandei, a dragon son) had only made her more determined to wipe out, as Greyworm told Jon, everyone who’d served Cersei. But while this sounded like a simple task, carrying it out was much more complicated. Cersei’s armies were dispersed all over the city; they could easily remove their armour and feign innocence. Moreover, every resident in King’s Landing could be seen as an accomplice to Cersei’s reign; even the people in Flea’s Bottom, like Gendry, used to make weapons for the Lannisters. Were they to be wiped out as well? If not, where to draw the line? This order nonetheless confirmed Daenerys’ world view that the morally corrupt should perish without mercy, and Cersei was, indeed, corruption defined. Daenerys had seen Cersei’s treachery herself, and the sheer scale of it must be as foreign to her as Westeros itself. Her closest friends and followers, Greyworm and Missandei, didn’t even know how to tell a joke—the smallest, most benign form of treachery. Daenerys knew what treachery was, of course, she’d suffered greatly from it, but treachery in the game of thrones was a different beast and she wasn’t yet equipped to handle it, to make correct assessments of the kind of behaviours it’d instigate—unlike Cersei and Tyrion, who as Lannisters had been breathing it in since birth, or Varys, who’d been both an observer of multiple reigns and a ruthless Kingmaker himself. King’s Landing, the city itself, had also signified little but treachery to Daenerys—her father had been murdered there by someone who’d sworn to protect him; men had been sent from there to murder her since she’d been born. 

While Tyrion had told said that Cersei’s armies were serving only out of fear, Daenerys, who’d only had the most faithful / honest armies, the Unsullies and Dothrakis, probably couldn’t truly appreciate what that meant. She had every cause to be terrified then when the bells rang, especially when they rang so early, without her or her army and allies even close to the Red Keep. Ironically, perhaps, her own moral righteousness became her blind spot; she might have assumed Cersei’s forces had something far more sinister waiting for her—because how could they abandon their duties, their queen so easily?

And if they did abandon their duties and their queen so easily, what would stop them from committing the same treachery when Daenerys becomes queen herself? How could she vet the innocent and the treacherous and if she couldn’t—and she couldn’t, not with one dragon, a small army and no geographical advantage—what could she do? What could she do, when she was Daenerys Stormborn, who would never compromise to treachery?

I can see her feeling cornered. I can see her feeling she was left with one option: take the innocents out with the treachery. Do it like removing a tumour. Cut out a ring of good flesh around the bad. 

The ring of good flesh was King’s Landing.

Plausible? Maybe? That tragically, both the rise and fall of Daenerys Targaryen could be attributed to her moral code? That she didn’t lose this game of thrones because she was evil, but because war and politics have always been amoral and she was a misfit? People in Westeros change allegiance all the time; morals are fluid and carry a price tag. Appropriately then, the man who understood and lived by these rules, whose loyalty could always be bought—Bronn—was also the biggest winner of this game of thrones.

I’d say this though:  a plot point as significant, and as close to the finale as the sacking of King’s Landing, shouldn’t require the audience twisting their minds into pretzels to make it feel plausible, and my brain feels a bit pretzly at a moment. No matter what the writers intended, there remained too many holes for the watchers to fill with their imagination. I’ve read some who said the final season was too rushed; I’m not sure that was the issue. The issue, I think, is that even if given enough screen time, the writers didn’t quite know how to drive the characters without the books’ guidance—an issue that had become apparent by Season 6. The last three seasons felt…derivative, like fanfics of the first four. This isn’t a slight (well, not a big one)—Benioff and Weiss had managed what GRRM hasn’t been able to—but I felt a sense that their visions of the world had evolved to conflict with GRRM’s over the course of the show. Meanwhile, they still needed to hit the goal posts GRRM provided, while they wanted to focus on / believe in something else. The result was the later seasons that felt …schizophrenic at times. GoT had highly implausible moments since Season 1, but the first four seasons sold them because the showrunners believed in them. S8 Ep5&6, meanwhile, offered enough for me to logically agree that the sacking of King’s Landing and Daenerys’ downfall can be canon, but not enough for me to believe emotionally because…I didn’t feel the showrunners believed in them. The events felt written to serve a purpose other than storytelling—maybe to match GRRM’s notes, or satisfy the perceived need to shock; in all cases, I felt the hearts of the writers were somewhere else, somewhere perhaps more spectacular than dissecting the motivations of a fallen queen. The shift towards visual storytelling in the later seasons, perhaps to mitigate the difficulty of writing dialogues for an ensemble of deeply complex and intertwined characters, furthered exposed the incoherence of the show’s focus. While I love the visuals, GoT had its origins as a political show and politics is 99% talk. Similarly, the increased reliance on the actors to convey their characters via facial expressions and body language might work for someone like Brienne, who was taciturn and largely consistent personality wise, but insufficient for characters who used talking as a weapon (Tyrion) or underwent major transformations (Daenerys). 

Anyway, back to Dany. If there was one thing I truly, truly dislike about the close of her story arc, it was the very end, when Jon Snow drove that dagger into her. Painfully cliche aside (I’ll leave Cersei’s baby to another day), it also unfairly cemented Daenery’s highly un-rightful place as the villain of the story, given that Jon Snow, the uncontested Good Human of the show, committed the murder. The show pitted two sympathetic characters against each other just to let one … leech the sympathy out of the other, when neither of their characters deserved the treatment (yes, I found this decision to be as unfair to Jon Snow as it was to Daenerys). As much as I had reservations about Daenery’s ability to govern, I never doubted the heart that Jon stabbed, the desire in it to do good for the people. Yes, I said it isn’t enough, and yes, I believe that too inflexible a moral code forcibly imposed upon others can do great damage, but this is very different from saying that Daenerys Stormborn was a villain. Conflating character and ability is human, but I expected this show to know enough nuance to avoid this mistake. Having the heart, the desire to rule well, is a start. A great and important start. A start seen in few others in the whole series. The early seasons of GoT were particularly strong in depicting characters in the grey but Daenerys, sadly, was robbed of that; she swung violently from white to black.

And what was so disappointing is that it needn’t be that way. Daenerys could have caused the destruction to King’s Landing and still be sympathetic. Queen Cersei was still in the Red Keep, and the Wildfires buried by the Mad King remained all over the city. Innocents die in wars, there’s never an exception to that, even if the wars are waged with the best intentions. I’m no show writer, but this is what I could come up with to spare Daenery’s fate as a villain after a few walking trips around my city, while keeping most major plot points intact. Show writers can do (much) better. 

Just for the fun of it, below is the alternative ending for Daenerys I came up with, and I will end my very, very long thesis here :) . Thank you so, so much for reading! ❤️❤️❤️

===

1) Start of the episode. Qyburn teaching his little birds a nursery rhyme about a Mad King and his Wildfires, and an Evil Queen who will set them all burning. He tells them to sing far and wide. (This is just an excuse to get another song from Ramin Djawadi)

2) Long shots of combustibles being laid in the same tunnels Lancel Lannister crawled through back in Season 6 Ep 10, before the explosion of the Sept of Baelor. That 10-minute sequence was so classic that the audience would likely remember the place. Piles of wood connect the stores of barrels that we know contain the Wildfires. Black tar flows down the sewers of the Red Keep, down the alleys in Flea Bottom, slicking everything, staining the innocents there with (Queen Cersei’s) muck. This sequence can be done entirely through visuals.

3) The Bell rings. Daenerys attacks the Red Keep with Dracarys. The tar and wood catch fire and carry the flames to the Wildfires around the city. As Wildfire is Dracarys’ substitute, the two augments each other and the city soon turns into an Inferno. Daenerys watches, horrified and unable to do a thing. The nursery rhyme becomes a prophecy: as much as a Lannister laid the grounds, the Targaryens are solely responsible for the King’s Landing destruction. Woods and tar are, after all, harmless without fire. And Daenerys Stormborn, who swore to protect and liberate the weak, ends up killing more innocents than Cersei ever had. 

4) Tyrion advises Daenerys that for now, she has no choice but to rule by fear. A reign cannot start with apologies, and what good will it do? So Daenerys gives the same speech to her armies on the steps of the ruined Red Keep, but noticeably distraught.

5) Daenerys must also restrain Drogon. She can’t afford him accidentally setting more fires in the city, while her armies scour every tunnel to make sure all Wildfires have been consumed. So the Breaker of Chains is forced to chain down her son, the symbol of her power.

6) Drogon, being intelligent but still a beast, maims Daenerys badly in his struggle to be free. Jon finds Daenerys, but she’s beyond saving. She tells Jon to keep what he saw secret, and if he can’t—she knows he can’t—to please lie for her, for once, that Drogon did it to avenge for the innocents she killed; that Drogon, and their family name he represents, knows justice above the fire and blood. When honest Jon reacts…honestly, she asks him to ask Tyrion for advice. She struggles to stand, says she wants to try the Iron Throne before she goes. She refuses Jon’s help; she walks, head high, blood trailing like a cape behind her, as she crosses the ruins. She won’t make it. Only her finger will get to touch the Iron Throne, as in her prophecy in the House of the Undying. Jon kneels behind her as she falls on her own knees. She will always be his queen. Drogon carries her away.

7) The waiting period can be a mourning period for all who have perished. Tyrion will still recommend Bran to be their King, as his proposal will be accepted as he remains the Hand. Jon would’ve asked Tyrion about the lying, and the issue can be brought up when “A Song of Ice and Fire” is presented in the small council. King Bran can then offer his wisdom as the Three-Eyed Raven, the Living History. What does he think, when he sees both the truth in history and the lies and prophecies told about it, that propel it? Does he approve of them? Disapprove? This will also wrap up the theme of the show, about the stories that make history, the history that makes us. Ser Davos can ask about the legend of Azor Ahai that cost Stannis Baratheon everything. Is it true? Does it matter? Also, how many swords actually make up the Iron Throne? Thousands, as the legends and Daenarys had believed? No more than two hundred, as Little Finger said in Season One? How many more swords have been buried for these thousands or hundreds?

[subharryempire]

Hello! We hope you enjoy this mpreg Harry fic rec that includes over 60+ fics. Please remember to give authors comments and kudos for their amazing work. Happy reading!

1. seeing blind by [ Justalittlebitlonely ] (2k)

A couple of years ago, Harry had been sure he was going to end his life mateless and alone, because no one would mate a Blind omega. Besides, he knew he wasn’t a typical omega. He was too tall, voice too deep, limbs too big and gangly. Maybe as an alpha he could have a chance to find someone, but as an omega , no alpha would want to mate him. But life had proven him wrong.

2. The Nearness of You by [ theweightofmywords ] (2k)

Harry and Louis' baby is due any moment. Harry just wants pretty toenails, and Louis just wants to help. 

3. Piece by Piece by [ @sadaveniren ] (3k)

He rubbed his hand over his lower stomach and closed his eyes. Louis was going to lose his fucking mind.

(aka Harry tells Louis he's pregnant and it goes as expected)

4. Baby, You're My Only Reason by [ FallingLikeThis ] (3k)

Louis worries about becoming a father.His pregnant husband, Harry, eases his worries without even realizing he's doing it.

5. Louis Baby, Hurry Down The Chimney Tonight by [ lgbtwinks ] (4k)

Harry looked so beautiful next to the fireplace playing with Danny on the rug. The dim light from the fireplace softly enhanced his jawline and pretty cheekbones. Harry looked like a proper mum playing with the kids.

In which Louis and Harry celebrate Christmas with their four kids and all Louis wants is to get laid.

6. I hate to Love you by [ brainwaves, Thingssicant ] (5k)

Louis froze in place, eyes widening and heart dropping to his stomach. There’s no way he heard that right.

“Poor boy lost this opportunity over a bit of fun with some boy. But that just means good news for you, captain!” the coach continued enthusiastically, expecting Louis to respond in kind but Louis was barely processing his words.

“I-I’m sorry, what did you say before? He’s pregnant? As in having a baby?”

“Not sure pregnant can mean anything else, son, but yes,”

Or, Harry and Louis are co Captains with a love/hate relationship.

7. Short Steps, Deep Breaths (Everything Is Alright) by [ Sugartitstyles ] (5k)

"Harry are you okay?” Harry shook his head sighing softly. “I’ve been getting sick a lot lately. Anything can trigger my vomiting it seems.” Cher giggled and nodded. “What’s so funny?” “Nothing really, just reminds me when I had David. The morning sickness for your first child is terrible. I don’t remember Gemma suffering that bad while we were in school though. Must of skipped her lucky.” Harry just sat quietly in shock. “Cher, I love you and all but you are talking nonsense. There is no way I can get pregnant.” “You never know Harry, stranger things have happened.”

Or the one where Harry ends up pregnant on the night of his collage graduation after riding louis.

8. A Hand to Hold and a Hand Held by [ @londonfoginacup ] (5k)

When Harry goes to the One Direction concert one year with his sister, he doesn’t expect to go home with the amazing Louis Tomlinson himself.

But then, he really doesn’t expect that night to have an impact on the rest of his life either.

9. Right Here Waiting by [ @chloehl10 ] (5k)

Louis and Harry are expecting a baby. Harry's heavily pregnant and nesting madly, determined to make their home ready for their baby.

10. Take My Medicine by [ @sadaveniren ] (5k)

Louis came over to Harry’s side of the bed and gave him a hello kiss. Kissing Harry always felt like coming home. From their first kiss at fourteen and sixteen he’d known that there would be no one else for him. And now, decades later, he still knew that was true.

----

AKA a sequel to Answer All Your Wishes featuring fluff, filth, and more fluff

11. Wear A Necklace Of Hope (Side By Side With Me) by [  sweaterpawstyles ] (5k)

"Lou," Harry's voice was high-pitched and small. He was so small. Everything about him seemed so fragile and Louis was terrified he would break him. He knew it was too late though. Louis couldn't break him because Harry was already broken. Or

A Hunger Games AU about Louis and Harry's life as victors in District 4

12. Forever and Always by [ tomlinbum ] (6k)

“I want a lot of kids,” Harry slurs. He's sitting on Louis's dick right now, riding Louis slowly and at his own pace.

“Okay, baby,” Louis says, petting his hip.

Harry pouts. “I mean it – I want, want so many baby Tommos running around the house, wrecking havoc just like their Daddy.”

Or the one where Harry meets the love of his life at 16. This follows the years following their meet.

13. Zero Means Nothing When I'm With You by [ WhiteClifford ] (6k)

Louis doesn't know what he's looking for until he finds it.

Harry just knows he may defy his gender norms, with his height and clumsiness, but that doesn't mean he doesn't want litters of pups running around while he does domestic things all day long.

In other words, boy meets boy and no one can stop pining.

14. honey and i by [ itiswhatitisbutterfly ] (6k)

AU very loosely based on Marley and Me, Louis takes his friends advice and buys Harry a puppy to quell his desires to start a family. However the puppy turns them into a family with out them really knowing.

15. To Carry Love by [ @dimpled-halo ] (7k)

During One Direction’s hiatus, Harry becomes unexpectedly pregnant, and Louis does his best at becoming the most supportive husband he can be.

16. Oh Baby, It's You by [ leedsbracelet ] (7k)

Harry wants a baby, and he intends on having one.

17. I heard this life is overrated, But I hope that it gets better as we go by [ louisnuggets ] (7k)

"Harry this is not something we're going to argue about. I decided to do it. It's a sure thing." Harry remembered his words. The sure look in Louis eyes, the way he balled his fists, the way he talked. His Alpha voice coming through. Everything. How could he ever forget? It was one of the worst days of his life. After Harry's heat, which included five days of a lot of orgasms and even more cum, Louis and Harry had been laying in bed. Louis' knot slowly loosening in Harry. Harry's back against Louis' chest. Harry was sated and happy until Louis threw the bomb. "Baby I have to leave again. Longer this time. I know you don't like this but this is really important for my career." Some may think, what's so horrible about that? But Harry knew what that meant. It meant Louis would leave.

18. Baby, Honey by [ @chloehl10 ] (7k)

Harry's been talking about sex and babies on stage too much for Louis' liking, so he decides to give him what he wants...

Or the one with the aftermath of Harry's Detroit concert...

19. The King's Omega by [ HunterMay18 ] (8k)

An omega with a really dark past becomes the King's new love interest.

20. yes, you make my life worthwhile by [ tomorrows ] (9k)

Harry whispers to him that this feels like every dream he’s had for the last three years and Louis kisses his temple, behind his ear, across his cheeks and by the edge of his jaw. He runs the back of his finger across Winnie’s sleep-warm cheeks and sighs, the weight of the world finally off his shoulder.

Louis' a pediatrician, Harry's a preschooler teacher, and they're having a baby.

21. Still believe in magic, oh yes I do by [ lookingforparadise ] (9k)

Harry and Louis are the greatest power couple in town. Louis plays football. Harry is pregnant.

22. Another Constellation to Trace by [ @screwstyles ] (11k)

Mpreg AU: Louis and Harry bet on who can keep Harry's pregnancy a secret for longer. Neither of them is particularly good at it, and it doesn't help that their soulmate tattoos make it even harder.

23. As young as we are by [ quitefinishedlove ] (11k)

A familiar pair of worn out Vans suddenly stops, catching onto Harry’s peripheral vision that he had to snap his head back just to face the person.

And there stood Harry’s ‘Baby Daddy’. God, he already hates that term.

(or, Louis and Harry are still in high school; Louis is mister Popular and Harry is the innocent kid that no one notices or really likes. They occasionally hook up in secret, but it supposedly doesn't mean anything. But then Harry, of course, ends up getting pregnant.)

24. To the Moon by [ @chelsea-frew ] (11k)

University students Harry and Louis have an arrangement--they are friends with benefits. When Harry accidentally becomes pregnant, however, they need to redefine their relationship. Do they want to keep things the way they are, or are they ready for something more?

25. Commitments by [ @chelsea-frew ] (11k)

An AU loosely based on the movie 27 Dresses. Harry is a fan of weddings, and Louis writes about weddings. They have sex, create a baby, then meet. Can they straighten themselves out after doing things completely out of order?

26. to change how you see and what you believe by [ jaerie ] (12k)

Harry and Louis are best friends who just happen to fall into bed with each other sometimes, it's not a big deal. After a drunken night of discussing their kinks, they wake up naked together. They don't remember what happened, but they've done it before and they'll probably do it again, but five months later, a surprise changes everything.

or an I didn't know I was pregnant au

27. Leap of Fate by [ @happilylouie ] (12k)

After one too many failed dates, Harry decides he’s had enough. He is going to start a family on his own, everything falls into place as Harry finds the perfect donor. But when Harry realizes who the donor actually is it hits him like a curveball. He wants Louis Tomlinson to be involved in his baby’s life, but first he has to figure out a way to date him.

28. shut your mind off (and let your heart hear me) by [ BeHappily ] (13k)

Harry wants Louis for a while, Louis wants Harry forever, but emotions and a little human get in their way.

Or, an AU where Louis is a single father to cute twins, Harry is a ballet dancer who doesn't want any relationship, and they foolishly become friends with benefits, but maybe it wasn't so bad after all.

29. you fit me better than my favorite sweater by [ brightbluelou ] (13k)

Harry didn’t mean to fall in love with his best friend, and he definitely didn’t mean to get pregnant. Despite that, it’s probably still the best thing that’s ever happened to him. And after that, well. It just kept getting better.

30. Brand New Life by @chelsea-frew (13k)

Harry Styles is one of nineteen children and has been sheltered all his life. After his best friend Niall Horan introduces him to the joy that is the three-man band known as One Direction, Harry is hooked. When Niall gets them tickets to a One Direction concert, Harry gets more than just a good time dancing to great music.

31. So Long I’ve Been Waiting by [ @flamboyantommo ] (13k)

the one where Harry and Louis are having their first baby, and keeping it a secret until the end of the first trimester is a lot harder than they thought it would be.

32. Answer All Your Wishes by [ @sadaveniren ] (13k)

Harry and Louis met when Harry was thirteen and as first impressions go theirs was memorable enough to start a life long romance.

AKA a Tom Fletcher/Giovanna Fletcher AU where Louis is part of One Direction, Harry is the love of his life who blogs, and they have many, many children.

33. there's something in the water by [ curlyfries ] (13k)

Harry and Louis met when Harry was in the middle of a rough patch after he injured himself during a tennis competition. After a night that Harry can't forget, he's met with a little surprise a couple of months later. It's a bit of a shock, especially considering how he got there, but he's determined to see it through. He's all prepared to do it all alone too, but running into Louis again might change the game.

Cue dates, happiness and cuddles, but Harry can't get the fact that he needs to tell Louis out of his mind. He's got his fingers crossed that it all works out.

34. Made From Love by [ @chloehl10 ] (14k)

It's almost Christmas, and amongst the preparations, Louis' realised something about his husband Harry.

Harry, however, seems to be oblivious.

Louis' determined to open Harry's eyes and make him realise the real magic that's happening this Christmas...

35. The Sunshine Stays by [ @becomeawendybird ] (15k)

It’s three years after One Direction got back together, and Harry and Louis have just come off a world tour. They’re enjoying a much more relaxed schedule the second time around, allowing themselves to bask in married life. Until, one day, Louis surprises Harry on vacation, and there are some surprising consequences.

36. On His Way Home by [ @stnbutterflies ] (16k)

Or the one where Harry is set up on a blind date with his sister’s best friend’s brother

37. I'll Be Your Light by [ mightaswellll ] (17k)

Harry Styles always had a crush on his sister's best friend Louis Tomlinson. Moving in with them should be a good way to get over it, right?

38. If the Surface Begs You Home by [ @becomeawendybird ] (17k)

Harry is a mermaid from the underwater kingdom of Mercadia who is a little too fascinated by life above the surface. He's kicked out of his home after he winds up pregnant, and has to figure out how to make his way in the world. Louis is the darling of the small neighbouring seaside village who came home after university to take over their local library, and can't seem to stay away from the mysterious pregnant mermaid his friends introduce him to.

39. the sweetest devotion by [ itiswhatitisbutterfly ] (18k)

Harry loved Louis at 18 when he couldn’t afford to take him on a date, at 21 when he spent all his time trying to make it and now he adores every part of him as he professionally lives his dream every single day. And he will love him no matter how long trying for a baby will take them and every day after.

40. we come in line by [ starsinoureyes ] (19k)

Harry decides to have a baby on his own, Louis doesn't agree it's a good idea but lets him do it anyway. It took seven years and Harry getting artificially inseminated for them to find each other. Louis has a secret he didn't tell Harry and it might affect their family. Also featuring: a pre-pregnancy party, fertility clinics and pregnancy scares.

-based on the movie The Switch (2010)

41. Magic Everywhere We Go by [ @casuallyhl ] (19k)

Fifteen years after first meeting Louis at a mutual friend’s birthday party, Harry is just as in love with his husband as he was on their wedding day. And with the birth of each new child, Harry seems to have only grown to love him more.

And now Harry is spending four days at the happiest place on earth with all of his favorite people – his mum and stepdad, his four beautiful children, and his perfect husband.

Life couldn’t get any better than this.

Or, Harry and Louis go on holiday with their family to Disney World.

42. wrapped in light, in life, in love by [ tomorrows ] (19k)

It should be embarrassing — it is a bit embarrassing, actually, because he can feel Lila watching over him like a hawk, but Louis’ got a palm on his thigh and there’s a cherry red lollipop in his hand and Harry feels so bloody dizzy with butterflies. He brings the lollipop to his mouth and sure enough, the sweet cherry flavor feels more therapeutic than anything, like it’s made from warm hugs and naps by the fireplace. He’s too busy falling in love all over again to be embarrassed.

“S’good, innit?”

Harry nods his head. He feels like a child, but it’s okay because Louis is there and he’s staring right at him, blue eyes consumed by Harry before him. Being at the center of Louis’ attention is just as overwhelming as Harry remembers it being fifteen years ago.

Of all the things to happen while taking care of his niece for a month, falling in love with his boyhood crush all over again is probably the highlight of Harry’s autumn.

Well. That, and getting pregnant.

43. Second Time's the Charm by [ @chelsea-frew ] (21k)

The first time Louis sees the new barista at his favourite coffee shop, he falls head over heels. The first time he takes the barista, Harry, home, they end up making something a little bit more than conversation. Suddenly, it seems to Louis that Harry is keeping secrets. He is. Two life-changing secrets. When Harry lets Louis in on these secrets, Louis needs to decide whether to let them change his life--or not.

44. Weigh Us Down (We're In Love) (23k)

Harry’s eyes widen slightly at that. “We’re friends?”

Louis nods eagerly, smiling even wider. “Of course we are! You’re like, my first ever friend here. We just moved in, you see. Did I already tell you about that? Anyway! Maybe you can stay for dinner and I can show you my toys?”

Harry smiles. “You’ll let me play with you?”

Louis nods again, excited. “Of course!” He looks thoughtful for a moment, and then he’s slipping off the couch and crouching in front of Harry. “Oh, and Mum always kisses my wounds after she fixes them up. It makes me feel loads better all the time, so.” He leans forward and puckers his lips, pressing them over the bandage on Harry’s knee.

(harry and louis first meet when they’re eight and ten. this is their story throughout the years.)

45. there's a love and it grows (there's a life that we share) by [ felixandtae ] (23k)

“Yeah, we made a cute baby,” Louis said, tucking Harry’s hair behind his ear. “I’m so glad I met you.”

Harry said sheepishly, "I’m so glad I went to that party. Even if I don’t remember much of it, our baby is like a little match maker. I can’t believe I have a baby with a guy I’ve been crushing on for so long.”

“Oh, so long? And how long was this crush?” Louis teased, smirking as he saw Harry’s cheeks flush red.

Or where Harry and Louis are strangers (not really) who had a one night stand at a party and end up having a baby together.

46. Seven is Heaven by [ @chelsea-frew ] (25k)

Louis and Harry find themselves unexpectedly (but very happily) adding to their family. 

47. Somewhere In Between Who I Used to Be and Who I'll Be Tomorrow by [ ShapeOfLou ] (27k)

After landing his dream job of being a TV host, Harry Styles thinks he has it all, a nice job, luxury cars, designer clothes, and a stable relationship with a man he loves. That is, until he makes the drunken mistake of going home with the cute bartender which results in an unexpected pregnancy. With a baby on the way, Harry has to balance his work life with deciding how he wants to spend the rest of his life: with the man he's been with for years or the father of his child.

48. A Perfect Reason by [ @chelsea-frew ] (29k)

During a visit to a charity he'd like to support, Prince Louis--next in line to the throne of the United Kingdom--meets Harry, the man of his dreams. Trouble is, Louis is not out, and the law says his heirs can only be born of a woman. Louis is determined not to let that stop his pursuit of Harry. His determination doubles when Harry accidentally becomes pregnant. He and Harry will have their little family--and change the monarchy while they're at it.

49. here comes the sun by [ tomorrows ] (30k)

“Everything’s going to be fine,” Louis promises, his pink, chapped lips moving slowly in the cold. It matches the beanie on his head—pink, because they found out this morning that they’re having a girl and that’s just.

Harry’s going to be a dad. To a little girl. Five months from now he’ll be holding her in his arms, and she’ll be so lovely and small.

They’re going to have a spring baby and she’s probably going to have Louis’ eyes. What a blessing that would be. Harry crosses his fingers on the hand inside his pocket, hoping that she does. He’ll love her either way—blue or green or even brown eyes, it doesn’t matter—but he’d really like them to be blue, he thinks.

[Harry is a pediatric specialist, Louis is a neurosurgeon. All they want is a baby.]

50. Something Just Like This by [ kiwikero ] (31k)

Newspaper intern Harry Styles can't believe his luck when he goes from fetching coffee for his boss to writing about London's own superheroes, One Direction. Even better, he gets to spend time with the unfairly handsome Freefall, also known as Louis Tomlinson. Louis, who is way out of Harry's league and far too busy for a proper relationship—so how on earth is Harry supposed to tell him they're expecting?

51. Little Wonder by [ @sweariwouldnt ] (33k)

A mistake, or perhaps a well-thought out fluke of fate, results in Harry and Louis welcoming their first child. This is how it all goes down.

52. Destinies Miracle by [ whathappenedinwellington ] (33k)

Harry and Louis have been married for 22 years and are the proud parents of 4 beautiful children. At the age of 47, Harry unexpectedly falls pregnant-- an extremely rare occurrence given his age. The family of 6 are faced with challenges and decisions once unimaginable as Harry carries the baby to full term despite all odds against him.

53. Baby, What A Big Surprise by [ @icanhazzlou ] (33k)

Or, the one where shy, quiet Harry has no idea he’s a carrier, and a one night stand with the most popular boy in school shows him just how wrong he was.

Featuring Lottie as Harry’s best friend, Niall as her boyfriend, and, of course, Louis as the popular boy with a soft spot for his little sister’s quirky friend.

54. Party of Five by [ @chelsea-frew ] (34k)

Six years after their twin girls were born, Harry and Louis find themselves expecting another bundle of joy! Ups, downs, excitement, and worry follow the news as the family of four prepares to get just a little bit bigger.

55. love is so good when the love is young by [ drunkonyou ] (38k)

Louis falls for his pregnant best friend who has a bit of baggage. They make it work though.

56. We Got The World Shaking by [ FutureMrsHaroldStyles ] (39k)

Suddenly Louis is taking Harry’s hand in his own and turns to his sister. “I’m taking him to my room. Don’t worry I’m going to take care of him. Now go and enjoy your party, little sis!” And with that Louis leads Harry to the elevator. The thoughts in Harry’s head are going wild but they all come down to Fuck am I really gonna spend my heat with Louis Tomlinson?

Or the one where Harry goes into heat at his best friend Lottie's birthday party and her big brother helps him out.

57. Fallen Far From the Tree by [ @sadaveniren ] (41k)

Harry and Louis go through the ups and ups of pregnancy.

58. everywhere (i wanna be with you) by [ itiswhatitisbutterfly ] (42k)

Harry and Louis meet because they have terrible friends, they fall in love because something feels right in a world of uncertainty and shifting grounds. Louis is an actor and Harry is a model at the top of his game, the best things in life are the most unexpected ones and the things that hit you when you are least expecting it.

Featuring winter in London, nights in Paris, early mornings in New York, burning heat in Monte Carlo and an enduring love spent transcending four corners of the globe.

59. I'll Be Here Waiting on Forever by [ sweaterpawstyles ] (46k)

Harry made Louis feel like he was walking on air. He was beautiful in every way and it constantly amazed Louis. His eyes could melt Louis' heart at a single glance, his soft hands made Louis' heart race with a simple touch, and the words from his cherry red lips were so captivating that Louis held onto everything he said. There was a constant buzz in Louis' veins when Harry gave him that look, the look that spoke more than words ever could. It was a soft fond that Louis fell in love with so easily. Too easily.

Louis was in love with the boy he could never have and show off to the world. Or A Romeo and Juliet AU where Louis is an alpha prince who falls in love with Harry, an omega prince from the neighboring kingdom

60. Temporary Fix by [ HazzaMyLou ] (49k)

Harry's been hurt too many times before and doesn't want to fall in love. Louis doesn't believe in love and doesn't want to settle down. But a chance meeting, a drunken night, and a pregnancy test might change their plans.

61. Hideaway. by [ arrowtomyheart ] (52k)

Harry is in a borderline abusive relationship which ends after the news that Harry's pregnant. He is homeless for the night and travels 3 hours on the train to turn up at his best friend's Liam's house unexpectedly for somewhere to stay. He meets Louis, Liam's flatmate, and they discover that they have more in common that anyone would expect. They fall in love.

62. In Any Universe by [ @chelsea-frew ] (55k)

Harry and Louis are happy. Yes, they are closeted, but they love each other and love their jobs as members of One Direction. Their happiness is shattered when they are in a car accident and Louis wakes up having forgotten the last five years of his life. He doesn't remember being on The X-Factor, being a part of One Direction or, most devastating, Harry. Estranged from the love of his life when Louis retreats to what he does remember, Harry discovers that he's pregnant. What will he do if Louis doesn't recover his memory, and he's faced with being a single parent? What will he do without Louis?

63. Smokescreen by [ Arvernii ] (57k)

Louis rules the school; guys want to be him, girls want to do him. He's the coolest guy in school and if you don't agree with him, his crew will make you change your mind. Spending most of his afternoons smoking cigarettes while on the back of his motorcycle, Louis has it all: popularity, money, fear and respect. However his bad-boy image is just a smokescreen, when a new out and proud gay student named Harry suddenly shows up, everything is immediately thrown into chaos.

What is the price of love?

64. Two + Two = Four by [ @chelsea-frew ] (58k)

In the middle of the Where We Are Tour, Harry and Louis find themselves feeling a little amorous after attending Louis' mum's wedding. After indulging in some unprotected sex on an L.A. beach, Harry ends up pregnant, expecting twins just weeks after the end of their On the Road Again Tour.

Not only do the boys find themselves facing the daunting prospect of becoming parents at the height of their fame--not to mention during a worldwide stadium tour--but the boys are still closeted. Their lives are about to change, but though the changes are stressful, and the road is just a bit rough, they can't wait to welcome their twins into the world.

65. Baby We Could Be Enough by [ @chloehl10 ] (74k)

Harry Styles has always wanted a family, but his boyfriend doesn’t. When an unexpected pregnancy leaves Harry feeling alone and terrified, he feels he has no choice but to give up his baby. He finds a family with the adoptive parents, and maybe something more. ~ Louis Tomlinson and his wife, Jess, have been trying for a baby for years. Their hasty marriage after they first got pregnant has only led to a series of miscarriages that have put a strain on their already precarious relationship. When they meet a young man desperate for a home and someone to raise his child, Louis realizes that he may have been moving in the wrong direction all along.

66. One Night Stands by [ benniejets ] (77k)

Harry was always great at making decisions; he never did anything too risky and he never really did anything stupid. He played by all the rules, which led to him living a quiet life. However, one night when he decides to go out with a few friends and have some drinks and randomly hooks up with a man, his specifically planned out life goes to shit.

67. Half A Heart by [ Larry_Darling0124 ] (198k)

Scarlet Marie Styles. Louis didn't know about her. Harry kept her a secret. Scarlet knows he left. * Eight years ago Harry Styles gave birth to a beautiful baby girl named Scarlet Marie. Now, at the age of 26, he doesn't expect to run into the only man he ever loved. The man that left him when he needed him most. * Eight years ago Louis Tomlinson made the biggest mistake of his life. Now, at the age of 27, that same mistake just got a whole lot bigger.

68. A Little Love by [ felixandtae ] (220k)

Harry and Louis are best friends, and when Harry's boyfriend breaks up with him, he's instantly depressed. Louis hated seeing him this way, so one thing leads to another and they wind up sleeping together, which causes a lot of problems.

Or, where Harry gets heartbroken, so Louis tries showing him love, but a bump is in the road. Literally.

[wizardingworldlibrary]

Newt Scamander Masterlist

A Bit of Bother and All That (ao3) - manic_intent original percival graves/newt E, 9k

Summary: Despite later claims by Porpentina Goldstein, the first thing that Newt Scamander, illegal magizoologist, actually said to Graves was “Oh. I really didn’t think that there were two of those.”

Graves looked around quickly, wand cautiously raised. One of Grindelwald’s ‘silos’ of stored and mostly illegal paraphernalia had turned out to also include an acid-spitting two-legged ostrich-sized lizard, whose spit had dissolved, unfortunately, much of said illegal paraphernalia, a desk, several chairs, and Newt’s clothes. The lizard was asleep, bubbling gently beside the stairs, clutching the virulently pink flower bulb that Newt had thrown at it right before he’d been drenched.

“Where’s the other one?”

“No, no, I meant your coat,” Newt explained brightly.

A Helping Hand (ao3) - wynnebat harry/voldemort T, 3k

Summary: “Newt Scamander is in need of an assistant, I believe,” Dumbledore said, stroking his chin. “I have a feeling that you would enjoy working with him.”

Harry peered at him with some suspicion. “Does Newt know he’s in need of an assistant?”

Dumbledore had no half-moon glasses to give cryptic looks over the tops of the frames, but he still managed a look to the effect. “We are often unaware of that which we most need. In any case, Hogwarts is doing you no good. A change of pace will help you settle into the decade better than anything I can do for you here.”

“I feel manipulated,” Harry sighed. “And nostalgic about it, too. I don’t know why.” With a pat on the foal’s head, he picked himself up and turned around to find Dumbledore already holding a portkey and a mokeskin pouch of whatever he was sending Harry off with. “No, never mind, the nostalgia’s gone now.”

(In which Harry begins a new job, defeats a Dark Lord, falls in love, and settles into a new time.)

Basic Instincts (ao3) - manic_intent original percival graves/newt E, 49k

Summary: “Who are you?” Graves demanded hoarsely.

“I’m Newt. Scamander. Err. Pleased to meet you. I mean, I would’ve been pleased to meet you, under normal circumstances.”

“Scamander.” Graves frowned to himself. For someone who was supposedly in a bad rut, he seemed perfectly in control. “Your accent, it’s British. Any relation to Theseus Scamander? Head of the DMLE?”

“I’m his younger brother.”

“Are you an Auror?”

“No. I’m a magizoologist.”

Graves exhaled, exasperated. “A what? Is this a rescue or are you a hostage?”

“Sort of neither,” Newt admitted.

Dearly Beloved (ao3) - prosodiical original percival graves/newt T, 11k

Summary: or: Five times Percival Graves said he was married, and one time Tina believed him.

When Director Graves starts elaborating on his supposed husband, the entire department is even more certain he doesn't exist - an author and a dragon tamer, who's somehow captured a creature that can kill a hundred wizards at a time? And what sort of name is Newt, anyway?

Tina's one of them - at least, until Newt Scamander, magizoologist, shows up in New York and lets a Niffler loose. And when he realises Graves has been replaced by an imposter, things only get more complicated from there.

Fantastic Humanity (ao3) - esama T, 4k

Summary: Somewhere in Newt’s suitcase there is a pocket watch.

Five Times Newt Helped Graves, and One Time Graves Returned the Favour (ao3) - arrenkae original percival graves/newt T, 8k

Summary: Newt just wants to help, but he doesn’t always ask for it himself.

Here We Are (ao3) - Miss_Lv original percival graves/newt E, 22k

Summary: Percival had long given up on the idea that he would find an omega mate, he never seemed to fit what they were seeking in a husband, always too rough, not gentle enough.

But then he meets Newt Scamander and the omega is utterly perfect to him, with his shy smiles and tendency to run headlong into danger. Catching vipers in his hands and keeping nifflers for company, Newt is nothing like the typical demure omega and Percival is lost before he can even think to resist.

Little Secrets (ao3) - Miss_Lv original percival graves/newt E, 33k

Summary: Newt knows he shouldn’t.

People would think he was wrong, twisted to do such things with creatures. But they woke that urge in him. Mr Graves was the only man he loved and he would never notice Newt like that. Why should he deny himself then, this little secret, between him and his wolf?

Matchmaker, Matchmaker (ao3) - prosodiical original percival graves/newt E, 10k

Summary: or: five times Theseus set Newt and Percival up in some strange matchmaking scheme and one time Newt actually appreciated it.

Newt immediately knows the Graves at MACUSA isn't the real one, because Theseus has been setting them up for years.

Mother May I (ao3) - esama M, 42k

Summary: In which Newt can recognize an Obscurial by sight.

The Cigarette Case (ao3) - AgentMalkere original percival graves/newt G, 6k

Summary: Apparently even Gellert Grindelwald isn’t immune to a niffler’s sticky paws.

(In which Newt was not expecting to find Percival Graves in a stolen cigarette case.)

The Heart Grows Fonder (ao3) - flightinflame original percival graves/newt M, 25k

Summary: Following captivity during the war, Newt fell pregnant. He was nearly killed shortly after, and believes his son is dead, until a chance meeting with some centaurs brings him some news and changes the path of his life, sending him across the ocean in search of the family he thought was lost.

Where I Belong (ao3) - Mishafied original percival graves/newt M, 54k

Summary: **NOW COMPLETE!** Newt Scamander has a secret that sets him apart from the other merfolk, a secret that could drag him into the middle of a magical war he wants no part of. Percival Graves never thought that preventing that war would hinge on him babysitting something that wasn't entirely human.

He also didn't expect to fall so hard.

Also known as 'the merman!Newt AU that no one asked for'.

Yes Sir, That’s My Baby (ao3) - Quakey jacob/newt E, 9k

Summary: As a general rule, Jacob enjoys his repeat customers. He just wishes the guy in the blue coat would quit looking at him like he’s expecting something more than a pastry.

[droneseco]

Razer Book 13 Review: Gaming Laptop in a Suit

Razer Book 13

8.70 / 10

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We recommend the Razer Book 13 to anyone who is looking to get a small compact laptop that offers great performance and adequate battery life for schoolwork, games, and occasionally heavier tasks like video editing.

Specifications

Brand: Razer

Storage: 256 or 512GB

CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7

Memory: 16GB

Operating System: Windows 10 Home

Battery: 55 WHr

Ports: USB 3.1 Gen 1 (USB-A) x 1, Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) + Power x 2, HDMI 2.0 x 1, MicroSD Slot x 1, 3.5mm Combo-Jack x 1

Camera: 1MP / 720P

Display (Size, Resolution): 13.4" Full HD or UHD

Weight: 3.09 lbs

GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Pros

Gorgeous display

Compact and sleek industrial design

Excellent performance

Good variety of ports

Fantastic speaker system

Cons

Keyboard is a little underwhelming compared to the competition

Hard to open with one hand

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The Razer Book 13 is a refreshing take on the productivity laptop, but should you buy it?

The ultrabook market in 2021 is kind of stale, especially on the Windows side of things. With brands like Dell, Lenovo, and Microsoft releasing iterative updates to their laptop lines, it can be underwhelming to see the same designs over and over again. Enter Razer's new Book 13: a sleek, compact statement piece that packs in some serious power.

This is Razer's first productivity-focused laptop, and frankly, it's one of the best first attempts you're going to find. You're getting a modern design, a gorgeous display, and comfortable performance in a highly portable package.

Design

The Razer Book 13 is truly impressive from a design standpoint. The enclosure gives off an industrial look with flat edges all the way around. The laptop is a bit heavier than other productivity laptops, such as the Surface Laptop 4 13.5-inch, weighing in at around 3.09lbs, but you're going to get one of the most compact 13-inch computers on the market.

The front lip on the bottom edge of the laptop allows you to open it with one hand, but because it's magnetic, I found it to be cumbersome at times. That said, closing the screen makes a very satisfying snap.

Unlike other Razer laptops, this one comes in a silver colorway called Mercury; the finish is pleasantly paired with the color-matched Razer logo and white keyboard, but it gets dirty regularly. If you put this laptop into a bag or any storage compartment, you will see dark marks begin to form on the metal body. These marks are easily removable with a cloth, but it can be a hassle when you have to clean your laptop frequently.

Display

The Razer Book 13 has one of the best-looking laptop displays, period. The spec I got for review is the Full HD variant with touch; Razer also offers the Full HD non-touch variant for cheaper, or you can opt for the top-of-the-line UHD model which also supports touch.

This screen is arguably one of the best aspects of this laptop, and it's nearly the perfect display for a productivity laptop of its class. It gets reasonably bright, and colors are vivid and mostly color-accurate. The bezels are very slim and minimal, making for a truly immersive experience for working, gaming, and streaming movies and videos.

There's nothing to complain about here; this display is great. Some additions that would make this panel better would be changing the aspect ratio from 16:10 to 3:2. The 16:10 aspect ratio on the Razer Book 13 is better for productivity than its 16:9 gaming siblings, but opting for the taller 3:2 aspect ratio would be good to see. Another thing Razer could do is offer a higher refresh rate. The Razer Book 13 display is 60hz, but since Razer already offers 144hz panels for its Blade 13, a higher refresh rate on this laptop would set it apart against other productivity laptops.

The Keyboard: RGB isn't Enough

So far, we've raved about the superb design of the Razer Book 13, but this gets overshadowed by the laptop's suboptimal typing experience. Compared to other productivity laptops like the Surface Laptop 4, the Razer Book 13's typing experience is disappointing.

This keyboard feels mushy and cramped compared to its competition. It's far too shallow, and in my time testing, I never got used to it. I always ended up missing letters, and when typing fast, the stiffness of the keys meant you couldn't recognize when a key was being pressed.

In typical Razer fashion, this keyboard does support Razer Chroma RGB, and the laptop comes with Razer Chroma Studio preinstalled to allow you to customize the lighting effects on it. Razer also says the keyboard has Anti-Ghosting, which supposedly allows it to pick up on multiple inputs from keys at once. However, this isn't effective when you end up missing keys because of the keyboard's mushiness. The trackpad on this laptop is glass and supports Microsoft Precision drivers on par with other premium productivity ultrabooks.

Overall the keyboard is by far the weakest feature of this otherwise great laptop.

Specifications and Performance

The Razer Book 13 comes equipped with Intel's 11th gen i7 EVO processor, which features Intel Iris Xe Graphics. You can get this laptop with 16GB of RAM and either 256 or 512GB of storage. The base model Razer Book 13 is sold exclusively on Razer's site, and it brings the price down to $1200 by using the 11th gen i5, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage.

The variant we have for review is the mid-tier i7 with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, and this is the configuration we recommend for most people as the i7 performs considerably well.

This laptop is powerful; during testing, it could easily handle a 4K Premiere Pro timeline at full resolution without dropping any frames. This laptop can run graphic-intensive games at medium to high settings for gaming but don't expect crazy framerates.

Compared to Razer's gaming lineup, you're getting a weaker U-series chipset than the H-series found on the Razer Blades, and you're using integrated graphics compared to GeForce 30 series graphics on the Blades. All this boils down to allowing the Razer Book 13 to be compact and power-efficient compared to its more gaming-centric siblings.

The thermal design on the Razer Book 3 is great for a laptop of this form factor as it's mostly silent and stays relatively cool during heavy workloads.

Overall, you're getting superb performance on a laptop that's as small and compact as the Razer Book 13.

Battery Life

The battery life on this laptop follows suit with most other productivity laptops; on average, you can expect 7-8 hours of screen-on-time with moderate usage. In my testing, heavier workloads within programs like Premiere Pro meant you're going to get just under 6 hours of use before needing to plug in.

Keep in mind that the model tested in this review is the Full HD variant, so if you opt for the higher resolution 4K version, your battery life will most likely decrease.

The laptop charges via USB-C, and the included power brick supports 65W charging. The charger for the Razer Book 13 is quite nice since the brick is small and compact, and the cable is very nicely braided.

Key Features

The port selection on the Razer Book 13 is excellent. You'll find two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4, a USB-A 3.1 port, a full HDMI port, a MicroSD card slot, and a headphone jack. This is great for productivity since you'll be able to utilize a diverse selection of ports without having to ditch out any extra money for dongles or docks.

The USB-C ports both support power, allowing you to plug in the laptop from both the right and left sides, making it super convenient for charging.

The Thunderbolt 4 supports 40Gbps of high bandwidth, so you can easily plug your laptop into a dedicated monitor or eGPU to maximize speed and performance. The versatility of Razer's port selection is great to see in a compact laptop like Book 13.

The Razer Book 13 comes equipped with a 1MP 720p camera paired with a 4-mic array. The mic input on this laptop is decent, but the camera is nothing special; it's considerably noisy and unappealing. The laptop also comes equipped with Windows Hello facial recognition, and this allows you to log into your device with little to no hassle.

For the speakers, Razer opted for a dual pair of upward-firing speakers, and for the most part, they are crisp and clear, but it's nothing too extraordinary. You will still experience distortion at higher volumes. The laptop supports spatial audio, but it's not that effective in this type of form factor.

Repairability

The Razer Book 13 follows suit with most ultraportable within its class when it comes to repairability. You can upgrade the SSD, which is great to see as you can get more storage compared to Razer's offering of only 256 or 512GB. The RAM, however, is soldered on, so if you opt for the 8GB variants, you won't be able to upgrade it. The laptop is accessible through the bottom using a T5 Torx screwdriver.

The Razer Book 13's non-upgradeable RAM isn't a dealbreaker, but it does mean you will have to ditch out $1600 for more RAM; the highest configuration of RAM you can opt for is 16GB.

Who is the Razer Book 13 For?

Overall, the Razer Book 13 is an exceptional productivity laptop. You're getting a sleek industrial design, great performance, a stunning screen, and decent battery life. The port selection is diverse, and you can easily conquer tasks with ease on an ultraportable form factor.

That said, the keyboard remains to be the only major weak point on this laptop with its shallow key-travel and mushiness. If you're a heavy typist, you should consider picking up an external keyboard to go along with your Razer Book 13 purchase.

We recommend the Razer Book 13 to anyone who is looking to get a small compact laptop that offers great performance and adequate battery life for schoolwork, games, and occasionally heavier tasks like video editing.

Razer Book 13 Review: Gaming Laptop in a Suit published first on http://droneseco.tumblr.com/

[lavieendonna]

Brushwork || Art Major!Calum AU (Chapter 13)

Summary: An Art Major AU where Dallas - third year gawky art student at VCA -  makes a deal with Calum - her cute new neighbour and project partner - and they spend the entire year learning that the perfect masterpiece takes a whole lot of brushwork.

Date: 4 August 2017 Requested: surprisingly yes like half a millennia ago  Pairing: Calum + Dallas Words: 4K Warnings: a little bit of self-esteem issues and some body image negativity in the beginning, but the rest is quite fluffy and calum-y goodness.  A/N: don’t ask me how long ago this was meant to be up cuz i can guarantee none of us were alive. IM SO SORRY THIS IS LATE and i apologise in advance cuz the next one will probably be late too. I hope the content makes up for it though, this is one of my favourite chapters so far and I can’t wait to write more. PLEASE let me know what you think and KEEP REQUESTING THE NEXT PARTS ! It helps me write to know people are still reading :) big love x 

Ask | Masterlist | ‘Brushwork’ Spotify Playlist | Next Chapter | ‘Brushwork’ News

Chapter 13: If Calum Touched Me Again I Would Go Into Cardiac Arrest And He’d Have To Explain To Polly And My Sister That My Heart Couldn’t Take The Feeling Of His Skin On Mine So I Chose To Succumb to Death Instead.

I felt him slide into the bed behind me. I wasn’t sure I was completely awake yet, or at least, I didn’t think I was. But I couldn’t mistake his warmth for anybody else’s, there was no way that was ever going to be possible.

“Dallas…” His voice was a whisper, and even though I was on some other plane of existence, I could still feel the slight smirk on his lips as his arms snaked around my waist and shoulders and he pulled me to him, bowing his frame to match mine as his mouth pressed against the skin of my bare shoulder. “Wake up, Sunshine…”

His lips peppered the lightest of kisses along what flesh of my shoulders and neck he could reach at that angle and for a moment I contemplated continuing to dance on the edge of consciousness just so I could feel him adore me in his own time a little more. I could never imagine what went through his mind when I wasn’t around. Part of me wished I was facing him, nose to nose, so that I could glimpse through my lashes at what his face might have looked like when he watched me when I wasn’t looking.

But I understood that some of these moments, they were his to have. I wasn’t meant to memorise every expression he had no matter how much I longed too.

With a deep breath, I cracked my eyes open and gazed over my shoulder with squinted, sleepy eyes and a lazy grin.

“Morning to you, too.” I mumbled in my less-cute, raspy morning voice. I felt a chuckle rumble deep in his chest, and the feeling made me want to press my heart up against his. I shifted in his arms, burrowing myself deeper into his arms so our chests were pressed tight against one another. I glanced up through my lashes and he was looking down on me already with the hint of smirk and the ghost of some mischievous thought deep set in chocolate brown eyes.

“Is this okay?” He whispered to me, almost like he was teasing me. I cocked a sleepy eyebrow, and just as I opened my mouth to ask what he meant he leaned in and covered my lips with his own.

They were exactly like I remembered them.

And they also weren’t real.

I opened my eyes for real this time and I was sweating from head to toe. It was late winter and I felt like I had heat stroke. I sighed, trying to stop the hyperventilating, and sat up to bury my face in my hands. It wasn’t like the dream I’d just escaped was a nightmare or anything and yet here I was, heart racing like it was. Don’t ask me why, because I couldn’t tell you even if I wanted to.

When fished out my phone from the depths of my bed covers to check the time, I groaned when I realised that it was only just past six in the morning. It was too late to go back to sleep and too early to really do anything productive. But I felt lazy and lethargic – I’d been holed up in my room for nearly three days coming out only to take a dump every 12 hours. And while usually that was, like, a dream scenario for me, this time it didn’t make me feel overly good about myself. After the Wedding Incident™ I was relieved to spend that entire week wallowing in self-pity and hiding from everyone in existence. This time, though I still wanted to be invisible to society, the self-pity thing wasn’t doing much for me.

With a huff, I decided to do something I almost never did on my own out of fear of death and no one noticing. I pulled on a pair of black leggings that clung to my legs like a second skin, threw on an old baggy grey t-shirt and unearthed my bright green Adidas sneakers from the depths of my laundry pile under the bed and stared at myself in the mirror.

I hadn’t been to the gym in weeks, I’d forgotten what I looked like in my version of work-out clothes. I pulled the grey fabric of my shirt close to my frame, bunching it up behind my back and I cringed. I looked like a dickhead. I looked like a dickhead who needed to go to the gym. My thighs were bigger than usual and my love handles were more than pronounced without my Spanx on. I didn’t even want to think about the pudge that was supposedly my stomach now so I let my shirt go angrily, grabbed my phone and earphones and the loose change from my trinket tray and stormed out of my room and the apartment.

I decided (upon the realisation that I was too broke to actually go to the gym) that a nice long run to push the limits would help me release the tension and anger I had that was making my body feel so heavy and idle and stuck. I was stuck on how to feel about the situation I’d found myself in; angry that Polly had to be so brash and unapologetic. I was angry that my Mum didn’t understand me, and that Calum wasn’t home when I woke up. I was angry that this all had to happen to me – and me specifically – because I was perfectly fine flying under the radar. I was as perfectly fine as I could be just being Dallas Noel James with minimal-to-no complications.

By the time I had realised how truly furious I was I had worked up a sprint. I had no idea where I was going or how far I’d gone – it seemed like I’d been running for hours. My chest was heaving and my face was red. I could feel the sweat sticking to my skin and drenching the t-shirt on my back. I smelt terrible an I was getting a wicked migraine from not drinking any water (or even bringing any to begin with). But for some reason the burn was comforting me more than any friend or family member I had could have.

I finally slowed to a stop in the middle of a deserted and some-what-dark park. There were a couple of street lamps on, but the first light of sun was just visible behind the trees that surrounded me. I was heaving, a lot more than I was this morning, and the skin from my neck up felt red. My thighs burned and I had a stitch where my liver was probably meant to be. But I felt lighter – for a minute.

“Dallas?”

God, every time I heard my name it made me want to throw up. Or die.

I stopped attempting to stretch and turned around slowly to find no one else by the boy with the brown puppy dog eyes.

“I didn’t know you ran.” He said plainly and while I wasn’t really offended, I raised my eyebrows at the boy to see the panic rise in his eyes and drown any surprise that was lurking there. “Oh, I didn’t mean – No, Dallas, I mean… uh. That’s. I’m sorry. That was… that did sound like that in my head.” Calum cringed and I let myself force out a quite huff of a chuckle.

“It’s okay.” I laughed. “Um, I don’t run. Usually.” I explained. “Not in public anyway. I just didn’t have enough money for the gym this morning.” Calum wandered over with a sheepish smile, his black stretched out singlet willowing in the crisp morning breeze and making him seem skinner than usual. He wore a pair of baggy shorts, too, and (surprise) black Reebok’s.

“I didn’t know you went to the gym, either.” He was a bit cheekier with that line and I quirked an eyebrow at him. “You just didn’t seem the type!” He defended himself, palms in the air like he was surrendering.

“I guess not.” I laughed again and then I felt the familiar awkward feeling settle in my stomach when the small talk came to a lull and I was left standing there on the brink of death while Calum just watched me. I watched him back, but still. I didn’t think I looked like I was thinking a million things all at once.

“How’ve you been? Polly said you’ve been upset.” Calum finally said and I watched the playfulness leave his eyes and instead of making me panic it made me… sigh.

“Did she, now?” I said, pursing my lips and looking away from Calum’s face, hand on the back of my neck as I tried to ignore the sweat that was there that made my insides squirm. “Is that all she had to say?” When I glanced back at Calum he was frowning a little, lips turned down as he gave a small shrug.

“I mean, I guess.” He didn’t seem sure about that. “She said she hadn’t really seen you in a couple days. Reckons that meant you were upset.” Calum suddenly looked worried he’d said the wrong thing. I didn’t like seeing him so unsure, it tugged on my heartstrings more than usual and it was an uncomfortable feeling. So, I chuckled, and though it didn’t relieve much of the tension, Calum seemed to even out his breathing a little bit.

“Polly isn’t always right, you know.” I said very pointedly. “I’m fine, I’ve just been… busy?” I cringed. I started that sentence off so well but half-way through I realised I didn’t really have a good enough excuse to have been holed up in my room for so long, and then it sort of just came out like a question. It was Calum’s turn to cock his eyebrow at me unbelievingly and I tensed under his gaze, my cheeks flaring pink for a new reason now.

“Busy?” He questioned me and I gave a deathly slow nod, brain still running blank for anything to save me from my myself. “Are you sure?”

I didn’t say anything and just started to walk back in the direction I’d come from. Calum followed along beside me, naturally, saying nothing, naturally, and waiting for me to decide when I was ready to talk. I wasn’t, really, but the longer we spent walking in silence (apart from my erratic breathing mixing in with the wind) the more uncomfortable I got. I had to say something or it was going to eat me alive and I’d probably end up falling apart in Calum’s arms for a third time and I was worried that if Calum touched me again I would go into cardiac arrest and he’d have to explain to Polly and my sister that my heart couldn’t take the feeling of his skin on mine so I chose to succumb to death instead. I’d embarrassed myself enough for one lifetime.

“I, um.” I tried to clear my throat but it didn’t work too well and I ended up choking on my breath and coughing up a lung. Calum offered me his water and I took it graciously, careful not to let our fingers touch. “Thanks.” He chuckled lightly as I handed back the blue bottle.

“You were saying?” He smiled gently. I wanted to die just from that look, it was so cute.

“I – yeah.” I took a deep breath. “I just, um. I needed some time to think.” Was what I come up with and, without jinxing it, I was actually kind of proud of my honesty. “It was a crazy weekend.” I watched from the corner of my eye as Calum nodded with a slight smirk twitching on his lips.

“I heard.” He said, managing hold in his laughter I could see threatening to spill musically from pink lips. “Tequila and pizza party, huh?” He side-eyed me and I gave an uncomfortable, clearly embarrassed titter. I coughed lightly again, sheepish, and Calum sniggered.

“Yeah…” I mumbled. “After…. everything… Polly and Ashton wanted to relax and show me how we’d done.” There was a small lull in the conversation as Calum and I both thought back to that night and how I’d ended up a sobbing mess in his bed in the middle of the night. I cringed at the memory and when I looked back up at Calum, the playfulness in his eyes had died and he looked positively worried. Guilty, even, but mostly afraid. Of what, who knew. I was under the impression he was a modern-day Hercules and wasn’t afraid of anything.

“You didn’t like the photos?” He asked and my eyes widened.

“What? No.” I accidentally yelled. “I mean, no, I-I did.” My mouth gaped like a fish as I tried to recover that sentence. The look in Calum’s eyes hadn’t changed – in fact I think I’d just made it worse – and I desperately needed to change that.

“I didn’t mean that. Of course, I liked them.” I said slower. “I loved them.” Slowly, Calum looked less hurt and more… concerned. His eyebrow twitched as he was trying to piece together everything that happened with everything I’d just said. Part of me wished he wouldn’t – there was so much about that night that I didn’t remember, but I remembered enough that I didn’t want to relive any of it either.

“So what happened?” He asked. “Why… why were you so upset?” I tried to play it off.

“I’m an emotional drunk?” I said with a hopeful smile and a shrug. Calum didn’t fall for it, he just gave me a sidelong look. I sighed. “Sorry.”

“Why do you do that?” Calum was frowning now, not necessarily in a disappointed way, just in a confused way. “Every time someone tries to get into your head and ask if you’re okay you play it off like it doesn’t matter.”

“Because it doesn’t!” I gave a dark, unintentional laugh into the open air around us. The sun had come up from behind the trees behind us, now, but even with the rays hitting our backs I still shivered. “It doesn’t matter why I get upset because there are bigger problems in the world.” I looked Calum dead in the eyes this time, because that was the truth and he was never going to believe me if I didn’t look him in the eyes for longer than a millisecond. “I don’t like feeling full of myself. And if I get over it and stop feeling sorry for myself then maybe there’s a chance social demise won’t be my thing for much longer.”

Saying it all out loud, repeating Ashton and Polly’s words, hurt. And it made me want to start running all over again.

Calum’s fingers brushed mine ever so slightly and when I didn’t immediately recoil from his touch, Calum intertwined his fingers with mine. My heart rate sky rocketed, but I was surprisingly cool about it (apart from the fact that I couldn’t stop staring at our hands and wondering if maybe the gaps in his hands were meant for mine to fill them).

“It does matter.” He told me, and it wasn’t quiet or careful or even remotely like he was feeling sorry for me at all. “But just because you don’t want to be upset anymore, it doesn’t mean you don’t have to feel anything.”

I didn’t look at him when he spoke or even after. I just let him squeeze my hand gently for a moment and then when I was ready, I let it go.

“I’ll race you to the McDonald’s at the end of the street.” I said and took off without letting him agree. He yelled out after me and called me a bitch through a loud laugh and I laughed back and just pumped my arms and prayed that maybe I’d be better than Calum at something. I had no idea what possessed me to think that I could beat Calum at anything let alone at running. He was this athletic God and this was the first time I’d been running in – well, I didn’t even know how long.

It was inevitable that Calum would not only beat me, but have ordered us breakfast already (I gave up when he breezed passed me two seconds but also again when I tripped over my own feet and fell flat on my face).

“Here.” Calum was still laughing after I told him what happened. I scowled as I took the napkins he’d gone and gotten for me and pressed one to the gash on my cheek and balled another in my fist to stop the bleeding on my palm. “How’s your knee?”

“Shut up.” I rolled my eyes but a smile twitched on my lips even though the bruise on my knee throbbed at the mention of it. Calum laughed one more time before gesturing for me to move the napkin from my face. I did as I was told and watched Calum inspect the wound as if he knew what he was looking at from a completely medical perspective.

“This is your fault, you know.” I told him very matter-of-factly. His eyes widened but they didn’t meet mind.

“In what world?!” He wailed at me and I winced when he started dabbing a fresh napkin to the now-slowing bleeding on my face a little too roughly, over the table even though it probably wasn’t overly comfortable for him.

“In the world that if you’d left me alone this morning and finished your run on your own without me!” Calum rolled his eyes and offered me a challenging look.

“Yeah, cuz that’s such a polite thing to do.” He deadpanned, and I cocked my eyebrow at him in my own challenge.

“Yeah, and in what world do you care about being polite?” I smirked. I was sure I had him now. Yes, the sweet, sweet taste of Revenge Sass™.

“Hey,” Calum’s eyes were playful again, but there was something else there deep set in his eyes that I couldn’t quite recognise. “I like to be polite to the girls I like.”  

Calum took back his hand and the napkin as if he hadn’t just said the words that would be the cause of my death. I was suddenly finding it hard to breath, especially as Calum left at the sound of the girl behind the counter calling out our number.

Be it hopeful (or maybe in my case, fearful) thinking, or just a case of complete dumbass-ery, I could only think of one thing Calum could have meant by the words girls that he liked. And I was dumbfounded and almost horrified because there was no way I could have fallen into that category.

I mean, sure, we’d established some grounds that we were friends and he’d have to like me to some extent for either of us to be able to admit that. But, like. It was me. He was Calum. Did he like me? Like, like-like, me? Like that?

I was having a brain aneurism trying to figure I out, and by the time Calum returned with the try of warm food, hot coffee and he was already talking about something else.

“Anyway,” He sat down and started to divide the food. He’d gotten two of everything – two breakfast muffins, two sets of hot cakes, to coffees and two juices (and two hashbrowns each!). I probably wasn’t going to finish it all, but I would try if it meant Calum would talk to me a little longer.  “I’ve been wanting to talk to you.”

“Uh, okay.” I busied my mouth with my muffin so I wouldn’t say something dumb.

“About the other night.”

“Uh. Okay?”

“When you were in my bed.”

“Yeah, alright, don’t remind me.” I shuddered. That was the first time someone had said the actual words out loud. They sounded… unlike me. But Calum laughed at my reaction and continued talking like I’d said nothing.

“You left something behind that night.” I was already praying it wasn’t my underwear. “I found your sketch book on my desk the next morning, after you’d left.” And I was officially fucked. Calum’s grin spread from ear to ear. “Dallas, your work, those pieces are incredible!” He was so excited. “I mean, I knew you were talented but holy shit.” He was talking with his mouth full and I was smiling sheepishly, uncomfortably, and my stomach wasn’t ready for this information after the last thing he’d said. I didn’t even realise that my book was missing, let alone that Calum had it. I really felt like I was going into cardiac arrest now – or maybe I was having a stroke. Who knows.

“Uh.” I sipped at my coffee, welcoming the almost burnt taste despite burnt coffee being one of my least favourite things. “Yeah, thanks… It, um. Yeah, I work really hard on those.”

Despite everything, I couldn’t pretend hearing Calum say that didn’t feel even a little good.

“I can tell.” He nodded. “I had a thought, and I wanna run it passed you.”

I looked at Calum, saying nothing and just watching as the brown eyed boy collected his thoughts and rearranged the words in his mouth. I watched and waited and part of me was curious about what he had to say. The other part was afraid, because I had a feeling I knew where this was going.

“I wanna use your latest drawings for the mural. I want to use the ballet dancer, paint her as a figurine or a music box or something, and then have her fall apart piece by piece and then put back together in a different pose. I’ve drawn up a rough sketch based on your drawings back home, but what do you think?”

It went where I thought it would, and I was less afraid than I thought I would be. Truth had it, that’s what the ballerina drawings were for. Not that exact design that Calum had described, but when I was drawing her I was thinking about how much time ballet dancers spent trying to be the embodiment of perfection and how even their mistakes looked more elegant when they didn’t call them mistakes and instead just found… peace.

I didn’t need to see Calum’s rough sketch to know that I wanted to go ahead with his design. So that’s what I said.

“I’m in.” I said with a grin. “Yeah, that sounds perfect. Let’s do it.” Calum’s grin stayed lopsided and happy.

“Will you be the ballerina?” He asked, eyes hopeful and excited. I blinked at him, a little blankly and not too sure what he meant.

“Huh?” I asked over my coffee. “What do you mean?”

“Can we paint the ballerina… well, can she look like you?” He clarified and I felt both flattered and embarrassed.

“Oh.” I mumbled out some weird inhuman murmur that weren’t really words at all. “Oh, no, I don’t – um. That’s probably not a good idea.” I chuckled and Calum just looked at me longingly.

“Why not?” He smiled, trying to encourage me to change my mind, I think. “You did really well at the shoot, the photos are beautiful.” I blushed again from the neck up. But instead of stuttering I cleared my throat and shrugged.

“We’ll see.” I said and Calum grinned again, tucking into his hotcakes more chipper than before.

“I have one more question.” He told me after a few minutes of comfortable silence. I looked up, sipping at my juice through the straw and putting the cup back down.

“What’s that?”

“Luke’s singing at this low key open mic night thing Friday night and he asked for some moral support.” Calum cleared his throat. “Do you… I dunno, do you wanna maybe come with me?” I nodded slowly, thinking.

“Yeah, I mean,” I shrugged again. “If Luke wants me there, sure.” Calum chuckled.

“Uh, right.” He just about snorted, he was trying so hard not to laugh. “Well the thing is, I want you there.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah.”

“Like a date?” I asked. Calum smiled.

“Yeah.” He said. “Yeah, let’s call it a date.”