#it'd be hysterical and I will always be mad we didn't get that

[a-confused-spoon]

my favorite thing about the idea of a Lucky Girl spinoff is that the hypothetical main cast would essentially be divided into 2 categories and they wouldn't be balanced out in the slightest

1 out of 5 characters (protagonist, i.e. Gwen) is a part-energy-being overachieving people pleaser who turned down the option of basically becoming a god so she could still experience human things like going to college at 16 and learn more about that one unusual interest she had since age 10

every single one of the other 4 is literally some variation of the same character: a ex-power hungry, very traumatized criminal who has attempted to murder the protagonist and/or her family on multiple occasions and who now is just sorta tired of their own shit so they're just casually part of her everyday life- except they're still probably relatively fine with some "questionably legal" stuff if push comes to shove, perhaps it doesn't even have to come down to that

yes I am including Zed in this last category

[raspberryconverse]

So back in January, Lola got an infected toe (see footnote on this entry). We thought she fell in one of Mable's holes, but the x-ray didn't show any broken bones, but it was an infection, not a tumor because it responded very well to antibiotics. After the $800 visit (which my spouse actually paid for, even though Lola is my dog, because I didn't have that much in savings*), my spouse suggested we get pet insurance for her. She's old (10½), so it'd be better to get her covered now before her health starts to decline because of age.

Well, that was a total crapshoot.

First off, the insurance company found in one of her vet records that she was an American Staffordshire Terrier and determined that meant she was not, in fact, a mixed breed dog (even though she totally is and is actually only 23% AmStaff) and they decided to raise the premium on her policy by about 50% unless I get the vet to send a letter saying that she's not (there was also a miscommunication because my spouse talked to the vet about it because phone anxiety and offered to write it and just have them sign and fax it over, but I didn't know my spouse was expecting me to do it because they said "we" have to write the letter). Now, I got an email saying they did a review of her vet records and are basically not going to cover a whole bunch of shit, including anything dental related because she has tartar buildup. So IDEK what I'm paying $150 a month for now.

I didn't even want to do the insurance thing in the first place because they tend to be expensive and not cover anything worthwhile, but I trusted my spouse and signed up for the plan they found. Now that I've found out it isn't going to cover anything, I've wasted at least $500 on premiums that could have gone to more important things. My spouse pulled their typical, "It's all my fault, I'm a bad person" deflection they always do when I get mad about something they did/said and that sent me off the deep end. I really lost my shit after that. Like hysterical sobbing.

But here's the kicker: I was eating lunch at the table and my spouse asks if I took my medicine today.

Oh, fuck no.

I can't even begin to go into how fucking insulting that question was. Like, I'm upset, so I must have forgotten to take my medication, right? You've got to be fucking kidding me.

"Well, I was just trying to make sure you were ok."

"No, I'm not fucking ok! I haven't been ok for a long time and I can't fucking doing anything about it because I can't get my fucking blood pressure under control!"

God, I really fucking hate myself.

Oh, and my spouse also offered to give me the money I spent on premiums for this shit insurance, but that doesn't fucking help with anything because it's still money lost. At the end of the day, it's still money that went to a scam of a company and no towards, IDK, a new screen door or something. Whether it came out of my account or my spouse's is irrelevant because we're supposed to be a team. I mean, my spouse's bonus is going towards stuff we need for the house. They don't have to spend it on that, but they're going to. So whether I paid it or my spouse did just doesn't matter because we still need to try to use both our incomes to pay for things that need to be done. Money I lost is still money that could have been put elsewhere.

*I also have my Petco credit card as the main payment method on our rewards account, so I actually had at least $800 put on my card towards cat food and litter in the last year without my spouse reimbursing me for it, so we determined we're even when it comes to that. Basically, Lola is my dog, Meeah is my spouse's cat and Mable is both of our responsibility. I got Lola before I met my spouse and I never wanted a cat, but Mable was a joint decision. Plus, we don't have all our money go into our joint accounts to allow us autonomy, but we do both throw extra money in there if we need it for something.

[manjiropie]

do whatever is in your mind.

Young Mikey x Reader!

Warn! no warnings today! enjoy!

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

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

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

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

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

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

This last week was the cherry on top.

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

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

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

~

I knocked twice on his bedroom's door.

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

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

I shrug.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"You can be so annoying sometimes."

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

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

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

"I already apologized, stop whining about it."

"I'm not whining–"

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

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

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

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

"I already did! Why don't you–"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Fuck you."

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

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

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

"Do what?"

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

Ha ha.

His hold on me tightens.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

----------

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

[mistresseast]

Here is my shuake temporary amnesia threadfic I posted to Twitter earlier! Presented to you in screenshots for the full cinematic experience of being spammed with gross fluff on your timeline. The complete text is under the cut in case you don’t want to or can’t wade through all of those images ❤️

The procedure was really simple. Akira’s appendix hadn’t burst or anything, it was just inflamed and the doctor decided to have it removed as a precaution. Nothing to get worked up about, Goro kept telling himself. His husband would be in and out within a day, no hospital stay required.

Akira was all jokes before the surgery, teasing Goro about putting on a nurse’s outfit to take care of him at home, and Goro just said something threatening about suppositories, which earned a cheeky laugh.

It didn’t take long, and the other thieves showed up right as Akira was getting out. He was pretty woozy as the anesthesia wore off, but Goro was just relieved everything had gone perfectly, according to the surgeon.

When Goro comes back, eyes red-rimmed but dry, the thieves are visibly struggling to hold it together. Ryuji is facing the corner, shoulders shaking. Ann and Futaba are clinging to each and Haru has her hand over her mouth. Makoto is holding her head like she has a headache.

Except when Akira is coherent again, he’s...weird. He keeps avoiding Goro’s eyes and he barely responds to the others when they speak to him. Goro tries to take his hand, and he locks up, going pale. The others just watch, looking awkward, and Goro excuses himself, suddenly feeling ill.

Akira is sitting up in bed, beaming.

“What happened?” Goro asks.

Sumi smiles innocently. “Nothing.”

Goro eyes them all with suspicion. “The neurologist will be here soon to clear him for discharge.”

“Great,” Ann squeaks.

“Somehow, I do not think--” Yusuke starts before two of the others shush him.

Well, that’s weird, but when are the thieves not weird? Goro is more interested in Akira, who’s staring at him with a crooked grin.

“Feeling better?” Goro asks, retaking his seat.

“I am now that you’re here,” Akira says, flashing him a wink.

Goro squints at him. “Are you sure? You were pretty out of it earlier. I can go get a doctor—”

“That was nothing,” Akira insists. “I was just surprised to wake up to someone so pretty waiting at my bedside.”

“Oh is that what it was.” Rolling his eyes, Goro sits forward to guide Akira back down against the pillows. “You shouldn’t be sitting up. You’ll pop your stitches.”

“Yes, sir.” Akira lies back obediently and catches Goro’s hand when he tries to pull away. “I can think of some more fun ways to pop them, anyway. Are you free later?”

Goro stares at him while Futaba lets out a hysterical giggle and Makoto mumbles something.

“You think you’re so cute,” Goro says eventually. “The doctor said to hold off on that for at least a week.”

"Oh, right." Akira hitches up his coy smile. "What's your schedule like in a week, then?"

Cheeks warm, Goro cuts his eyes to the others, who are all studiously avoiding looking at the bed. "What's gotten into you?" he scolds. Akira is never this…overt in public.

Akira's smile droops. "I...sorry, I—" He flicks a glance at the others as well, and Goro catches Ann giving an encouraging little hand wave.

"What?" Goro directs at her. "Is something wrong?"

She shakes her head quickly, eyes wide and glittering.

"Everything's fine," Akira insists. "I was just...uh, wondering if, after I'm recovered, you'd like to grab some coffee or something?"

Goro furrows his brows at him. "You realize that's a ridiculous question, right? What are you playing at?"

"But—you—" Frowning, Akira darts a look down at the ring encircling Goro's fourth finger, then over at the rest of his friends. "You guys—"

Futaba bursts out laughing and Ryuji nearly keels over from the force of his own elated wheezing. Makoto pinches the bridge of her nose.

"Sorry," Akira mumbles, releasing Goro's hand, cheeks red. "I guess they thought it'd be funny to play a trick on a sick person."

"A trick?" Goro repeats blankly.

"Of course you're already taken, someone as hot as you—" Akira scrubs a hand through his hair. "I saw your ring but they said it wasn't—you weren't—"

Realization clicks in Goro's head and he angles a glare at the others, which apparently breaks the final seal because the remaining thieves, minus Makoto, dissolve into helpless giggling.

"I'm really sorry," Akira continues, oblivious. "If I knew, I wouldn't have hit on you, but you're just so...and when I woke up and saw you being so nice to me, I thought, you know—" he grimaces. 

"Oh my god." Goro rubs his temples.

"When you left, I asked them if you were single and they said yes, but they were just taking me for a ride." Akira scowls at the others. "Not cool, guys."

Futaba snorts. She has her phone out and pointed at them but Goro can't worry about that at the moment. "Akira, how much do you remember right now?"

Akira shrugs. "Everything's pretty hazy. I figured you all had to be my friends since you don't look like family and you were all really happy when I woke up, but I can't remember the specifics. That happens with anesthesia sometimes, right?"

"Yes, it—" Goro breaks off on a sigh.

"Look, I'm really sorry again," Akira says earnestly, "—and I hope this doesn't make things awkward with us, but I just wanna say that I hope whoever you're with knows how lucky they are."

"Oh, they do," Ryuji pipes up. "They never shut up about it!"

The others all snicker and Goro wishes he was close enough to elbow Ryuji in the gut.

"Good." Akira smiles sadly, putting Goro in mind of a kitten left in the rain. "Who is it, anyway? Do I know them?"

Goro makes a strained noise in the back of his throat. "Akira, it's you."

Akira blinks. "What?"

Digging in his pocket, Goro produces a simple silver band and grabs Akira's hand. "You're the person I'm with, we're married—" he slides the ring into Akira's unresisting finger. "And your friends are all assholes."

Akira stares slack-jawed at his ring. "Wait, really?" He glances between Goro and the others. "Really?"

Goro nods with another sigh while the others struggle to compose themselves.

"Sorry," Ann says, at least looking a little contrite. "When we realized he didn't remember you, we just couldn't resist."

"We owe you," Sumi titters. "Please don't be mad! We'll make it up to you!"

"You absolutely will," Goro grumbles, already planning just how he's going to make the thieves pay for this.

"Hang on—" Akira snags Goro's hand again, eyes shining. "We're really married?"

"Yes," Goro answers patiently. "For nearly two years."

"Holy shit," Akira marvels. "How did I manage that?"

"Here we go," Futaba groans.

Goro shoots her a warning look before reaching over and smoothing Akira's fringe off his forehead. "Hopefully you'll remember that on your own soon." He doesn't really want to recount the whole operatic series of events.

Akira leans shamelessly into the touch, a dopey smile growing on his face. 

The neurologist assures them that Akira's brain is fine and that this kind of disorientation is common after general anesthesia. Nevertheless, he stays in the hospital until his memories start returning.

"Look at it this way," Ann suggests while Akira hides his face in embarrassment and Goro signs his discharge papers. "Now you both know that Akira's not just into you because you tried to kill him."

Goro still isn't pleased with the thieves, but he's starting to see the humor in the situation. "That's definitely a load off my mind. Though now I'll have to rethink our anniversary plans."

Akira whines something that sounds like "please stop"

"I did quite enjoy hearing about how hot I am, though."

Akira lowers his hands, pouting petulantly. "I tell you that all the time."

"You should remind me more often."

"Oh?" Some familiar impishness sparks in Akira's gaze. "So you like when I praise you?"

"Your memories must still be hazy because that's not a secret."

"Please don't do this," Makoto begs.

Laughing, Akira ignores her and makes grabby hands at Goro. Smirking, Goro sets his clipboard aside and leans forward, allowing Akira to pull him into a kiss.

It's just as sweet as always.

[pjshirwit12]

It's Alright

Virgil should've known that this wouldn't have lasted. Honestly! He finally found something good and of course it gets ruined for him.

Deceit showed up during the latest video and of course he just couldn't keep his scaly mouth shut! He had to drop hints about Virgil's history! It wasn't his business to tell!

Maybe they won't believe him. He's Deceit after all.

Virgil relaxed a little, but then he saw Roman staring at him. Virgil quickly averted his gaze. Nope nope nope! He refused to let the Prince of Button Pushing call him out. As soon as the video ended, Virgil dipped. He didn't wait for anyone to speak to him. He decided the quicker he gets to his room, the better.

"VIRGIL!" Roman yelled. Virgil flinched a bit, but kept going. Roman was really fast apparently because he quickly caught Virgil and spun him around.

"Hey, Princey, need anything?" Virgil asked

"How'd you know that was Deceit and not Patton?"

"I-I just did, okay. If that's all I'm going to my roo-"

"No you're not! Why did you lie to us?" Roman asked

"I-I didn't! I didn't lie!" Virgil responded

"You didn't tell us you were a dark side, lie of omission. I just learned about it today, thank Logan." accused Roman

"I-I just didn't think it be important to menti-"

"Of course it'd be important! This sets us back so many squares. Family doesn't lie to each other! They don't keep secrets! How do we know you aren't a spy? How do you expect us to even consider you family anymore?!"

Virgil froze. Time froze. Scientists say it's impossible to stop thinking. Virgil thinks he proved them wrong. He couldn't think of anything to say in that moment. No witty retort, no hurt outburst, nothing. Roman, on the other hand, had plenty more insults. Yeah, he instantly regretted his words, but not enough right now to apologize at that moment. He was too mad. Virgil's lungs seemed to have closed in on themselves.

"What's going on? Roman, move! I can see that you're upset! You get too intense when you are like this!" Logan demanded. Then he took sight of Virgil. Patton did as well.

"Kiddo, you okay?"

"I fear we're too late. Roman what did you say to him?" Logan asked

"Only the truth." Roman muttered

"Which is?" Logan pushed

"He was a dark side. Deceit made all of those little jabs at him, giving the idea that he was one. I didn't believe it at first because it's Deceit, when is he truthful. Then I noticed Virgil squirming and avoiding eye contact and being quieter than usual. That's when I knew that it was true! How do we know we can even still trust him? Open your eyes! We accept him as part of the group and then Deceit shows up!? Pretty suspicious if you ask me."

"Roman, that's enough!"

"Oh come on! You aren't that oblivious, Patton!"

"What are you talking about? Roman you sound hysterical."

"You're supposed to be the smart one, Logan!"

"What? Okay, logic doesn't always mean smart. Logic is more common sense if anything. My being smart is just a bonus. And as for your little theory, that's ridiculous! Anxiety isn't even a real side, much less a dark side!"

That one broke Virgil's dark, but loving heart. He hasn't been called anxiety in a while. And as for not being a side, well, Logan could've sliced him open and poured a bag of salt onto his organs and it would've hurt less.

"Ask him! The little brat won't even deny it!" Roman accused

"Virgil. You weren't a dark side, right?" Patton basically pleaded

"..."

"Virgil...?"

"..."

"Virgil...!"

"See I told you!"

Virgil ran to his room without a second thought. He needed to get there because it was, ironically, the only place he could attempt to calm down. It was quiet and dark. They were being too loud. Loud is bad. It was starting to get bright as well. Bright is bad. Especially when he's in this state.

He slammed his door and immediately took his sweater off and threw it on the floor. He went to his bed to try to sleep everything off. He crashed down and cried himself to sleep. Everything was ruined now and all because stupid Deceit was jealous and annoying and deceitful. Maybe everything will be better in the morning.

Nope

Virgil woke up and immediately thought about last night. He could push through today.

"It will be fine. It will be fine. It will be- ah hell!" Virgil exclaimed as he fell over his sweater, but it wasn't the one he threw down yesterday. It was his Christmas one. What was it doing on the floor? It was supposed to be in the closet. Virgil sat up and picked it up and something broke in him. The other guys gave him this on Christmas. He was so reluctant because he thought it'd be stupid. Now it's one of his favorites. That made Virgil cry. Tears for breakfast, how awesome. Virgil saw his old black hoodie and all of those feelings about being an outcast came back. That's the hoodie he wore before he was accepted. When he was with Darth Vader himself.

"Breathe, Virgil. That's all. Control your breathing and everything will be better."

"Oh, honey, those lies are so bad even I'm blushing." Deceit's voice said. Virgil looked up from his position on the floor and saw the snake-like creature across the room.

"What are you doing here?" Virgil asked

"I was in the closet."

"Okay, 1. You aren't the only one who was in the closet. 2. Why were you in my closet?" asked Virgil

"I was helping you pack. The others aren't gonna want you here anymore. Not after you hid such important information them." Deceit teased

"They wouldn't do that. They're just upset with me." Virgil replied. Was he convincing himself or Deceit, he doesn't know.

"Darling, even Patton is mad." Deceit laughed as he walked closer to Virgil. "C'mon get up, help me pack. The others will be expecting you. Especially Remus. I know he's missed you."

"Leave me alone. I don't want to talk to you, Godzilla." Virgil sneered as he scooted back

"Is that any way to treat your only friend?" Deceit jeered

"You are not my friend. Not anymore. I'm not anxiety anymore. Leave me alone and leave Patton, Logan, and Roman alone too." hissed Virgil. How dare Deceit refer to himself as Virgil's friend. Especially after he pulled that stunt yesterday. Deceit started walking towards Virgil and Virgil unconsciously scooted farther from him. Until his back met the wall. Deceit crouched in front of him.

"Aw. Bless your heart. Honey, Logan said it himself, you aren't a side. You disappearing would hardly do damage-"

"Last time I ducked out-"

"Had nothing to do with you. Some people don't have anxiety and they're doing fine. If anything Thomas was lacking his common sense. More of Logan than anyone else. I say, Logan was just coincidentally more distracted than usual that day and happened to notice you were gone. He probably pinned the blame on you. He didn't like to be wrong and you liked to feel important. It was a win/win."

"But- but-" Virgil stammered. Deceit grabbed his chin and that shut Virgil up.

"But nothing. Roman doesn't think you're family anymore. Patton, Lord, help his soul, doesn't know what to think, but will agree with the other two if persuaded enough. Face it, Hon, you'll be back with us before you know it. And we'll welcome you with open arms. Of course, you'd need to be punished for the whole running away thing, but after that, you'd be forgiven." Deceit cooed

"I'd rather be alone." Virgil growled as he started tearing up. He didn't want to go back with them. Never again.

"Pretty soon you will be. Keep it up and they'll hold the door open for you as I drag you away." Deceit growled and let go of Virgil's chin.

"Shut up."

"Why are you upset? Because for once, we both know I'm not lying?"

"ShutupshutupshutupSHUTUP!" Virgil yelled as he closed his eyes and covered his ears.

"Virgil! Virgil, it's Patton. C'mon, Kiddo. You're okay. It's okay. I'm right here."

–

Patton felt bad about not checking up on Virgil last night. He wanted to, but Roman was having one of his fits again. It took both of the older sides to keep him from starting trouble with Virgil again. They took shifts watching Roman last night. He was livid and, therefore, wouldn't hesitate to wait until everyone was asleep to bother Virgil. Patton was running on four hours and a cup of coffee right then. Logan had Roman calmed down, so Patton decided to talk to Virgil. After that, Roman will apologize.

Upon arriving at the youngest sides' room, he saw him in tears blocking off his most important senses. His sight and hearing. He looked like he was talking to someone.

"ShutupshutupshutupSHUTUP!"

"Virgil! Virgil, it's Patton. C'mon, Kiddo. You're okay. It's okay."

"No, no, no! You're lying! Get away from me!" Virgil yelled. That attracted the middle sides. They thought Virgil was yelling at Patton.

"Patton, Virgil? What's going on?" Logan asked

"Virgil's upset. He's talking to someone. Someone who's not there."

"Do you think it's Deceit?" Logan asked

"That's our best guess. I'm trying to make him open his eyes. Then he'll see." Patton explained as he slowly sat next to Virgil.

It took some time, but Virgil had his eyes open. He scanned the room. He slowly moved his hands away from his ears.

"Virgil-" Roman started. That's all it took before Virgil let out a sob.

"I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm so so sorry! I didn't mean to lie! I didn't mean to keep it a secret! I was scared! I didn't wanna be sent back to them! I didn't think you guys would actually accept me!" Virgil cried. Patton held him.

"Shh. Its okay, kiddo. You don't have to explain anything. You can tell us on your own time." Patton comforted. Virgil sniffled a little.

"I-I found them first. I didn't even know you guys existed. I was confused. I was scared of being alone. I needed help. They got to me first. I was young and an idiot."

"I hate to break it to you, Virge, but you're still young. You weren't originally there like we were. Thomas was born with us. We just didn't really get to our full extent until Thomas reached the correct age. For Patton the age was eight. Because children understand right and wrong at the age of seven. One more year just to be thorough. Even then, he's not at full capacity." Logan explained

"We're lost, Dexter. Maybe you can whip something up in your laboratory to make us understand." Roman commented

"Okay, so, adults get to a certain age and stop growing. Even then, they grow two inches per year. Even though they're supposed to be at full height, extra is added on over time. Slowly, but surely."

"I get it." Virgil muttered. His face was now buried in Patton's chest.

"Virgil you weren't there until around puberty. So you're still fairly young. And you aren't to be blamed for your past actions. And we can even grant amnesty for some future actions. Which brings me to my point. I feel the need to apologize for an earlier comment in regards to you not being a side. You contribute just as much as any of us. Therefore should be counted as one. It was wrong of me to make such a comment."

"It's cool, Logan." Virgil said with a small smirk and a wave of his hand.

"And I should apologize for practically witch hunting you yesterday. I should've been more careful with your feelings. I was just upset. I know this is a crappy excuse as an apology, but I don't even know how to put it in words. My behavior was appalling. Especially when I said that you weren't family."

"EXCUSE ME?"

"ROMAN!"

"I know, I know. I was wrong for that."

"No you weren't. I kept a big secret from you guys. And a big lie. And family doesn't lie to each other. I could've told you guys and just dealt with the consequences. No matter how scared I was. I'm surprised you guys forgave me. I can't even forgive myself." Virgil scoffed as the sniffles came back.

"Virgil we don't blame you. You had a good reason." Roman assured

"You should blame me. Now look, the dark sides are coming over to the light side. And it's only because they want me. Oh...oh no. Oh god! They want me back! Deceit even admitted it! You guys have to deal with those monsters and demons from hell because of me! I'm not better than them. I'm just like them! Or worse! I-I'm sorry!" Virgil started the sobbing and hiccups all over again.

Surprisingly, Roman started the song. And the moral and logical side looked at him as if he offered to marry a princess. They were confused. Virgil, on the other hand, started to quiet and looked at Roman. Logan and Patton joined in. Patton wiped the excess tears from Virgil's eyes. When the last solo part came, Patton held Virgil's chin and made him look up.

"Repeat after me, Virge."

"Alright."

"I'm alright, I'm okay. I'm alright, I'm okay. I'm not a monster, just a human and I've made a few mistakes." Patton sang. Virgil repeated and after the song ended Patton squeezed Virgil a bit and rubbed his shoulder.

"You're alright, Virge." Logan assured him. Virgil nodded.

"Yeah. We love you and we don't blame you. The others will have to get through us if they want you. And they can't go through us because none of us are ghosts." Virgil and Roman laughed as Logan rolled his eyes.

"Disney movies, pajamas, and snacks. How does that sound?" Roman offered

"Only if we start with the nightmare before Christmas." Virgil negotiated

"Absolutely. C'mon." Patton groaned as he got up and helped the others up.

"C'mon, Virgil. I have extra animal onesies." Logan exclaimed, with as much excitement as Logan could muster. (Which was monotone like always.) He dragged Virgil to his room. Patton glared at Roman. Roman looked at his feet.

"Go ahead. Let me have it for telling Virgil he wasn't family." Roman sighed. Patton mimicked the action.

"Later. Right now, Virgil needs us. Just know that you're grounded."

"You can't ground me- nevermind. I'll go straight to my room after movie night." Roman backtracked as soon as he saw Patton's fiery raging eyes.

"Good. Go get snacks and things ready."

"Okay." Roman agreed and ran downstairs. Patton picked up the sweaters that were on the floor and put them in the closet. His boys were fine. Everything would be fine.

Y'all have no flucking idea how many tears were shed here because all my progress kept flucking deleting. I was ready to Kermit. Anyway I finally finished. I rewrote this 5 times. I counted. So if it sucks, just know that I gave up on number 3. Like a mother who has already raised the "good child."

Peace✌️🏾☮️

~ PJ

[iloveyou-morethanthis]

Mine, Yours, Ours.

Arabian Nights/Aladdin AU (loose LOOSE inspiration)

Word Count: 1500ish

Pairing: Jongin x OG Fem Character

Kyungsoo x OG Fem Character

Summary: One Prince is destined to fall. Both intended to rule. Only balance can prevail.

Chapter One: Adventures and Balance

Hot. He thought. Why is it always so fucking hot?

It'd be nice. Living in a castle next to an oasis, seeing the lush green in the midst of this god forsaken sand. Sand. Who the fuck even likes sand? It gets into places it was never invited...Hmm that's a nice riddle. I'll pocket that for lat— “OW! What the hell?” He shouted, rubbing the back of his head where he had just been assaulted with the woollen sleeping rolls..

“You were daydreaming again.” She said bluntly.

“Your highness...” he warned.

“Yes?” She beamed at him. Her smile was sweet, but deadly. He knew that better than anyone.

“You should call me ‘Your highness’.”

Her smile faded into something more devious. “As far as I'm concerned that title was stripped from you.”

“Not stripped,” he charged, “Hidden. We have a secret mission, but that doesn't make me any less of a Prince.”

“That's exactly what it sounds like to me.” She dead panned. “And besides! My title wasn't removed, in fact it's the only thing keeping you alive, Your Highness.”

“Ugh! You can be so—”

“Stop bickering, Your Majesties. It's time to depart.” A large man, almost broad as he was tall placed a sack into the young Prince’s hands.

“UMPH” Jongin stumbled back with the weight of the pack given to him. The young princess laughing hysterically at him.

Ugh, Can you not act like you're enjoying this so much? He thought perhaps bringing his bride to be and life long best friend on this quest was possibly the worst idea. However, he knew if he had chosen someone else then she would still be here, by his side, as she always had been and always would be. Although he'd never admit it, it was what he loved most about her.

You're braver than I ever could be, that's why I need you here.

“Come on, Nini. Daylight is burning.” She said as she mounted her camel.

“It's always burning” he grumbled.

“We should arrive by sunset,” Sehun spoke up, securing the rest of their belongings before mounting.

Jongin secured his packs and made sure there was no evidence of their camp. Once he was satisfied, he too mounted, and the last leg of the journey began.

One more day, till he sees the city of his forefathers.

Talā.

The young man stood at the edge of his balcony overlooking the kingdom. This time of year was his favorite. Sure, it was unbearably hot. The sun beating down unforgivingly, but the nights were so cool, it always made him wonder how two opposites could exist so peacefully. One never overtaking the other, each doing their part, each holding their perfect roles and never forsaking them.

Roles. Harmony. Balance. That's what this world is about.

Roles, each is given to one at birth. It is our duty to maintain that role and do justly in that role. To do well. For ourselves. For our family. For others. Harmony. It is created when everyone and everything continues in their roles. Balance is what keeps everything in check.

This our guide to living a good life. His grandfather would tell him.

Balance. Balance is what Kyungsoo holds most dear in his life. Balance is more that equality, it is a flow of control. Life is an ever changing, unforgiving circumstance. The everflow of change creates chaos and madness, creates sorrow and pain, but through it all he can see it. The balance. The control it holds in life itself is magnificent. It is strong, unyielding, even fate (some would say) always bows to balance. Balance is a true judge, brings the poor to power and leaves kings in ruin. It breeds opportunity for the unfortunate and brings the fortuitous to their knees.

Balance, Kyungsoo thought, it is the one thing I trust, but the only thing I was born to fight.

He was unsure how long he stood there looking over his kingdom, thoughts wandering among the people, till a knock came upon his door. Only then did the Crown Prince notice the sunlight had begun to fade. A cool breeze swept through his hair as he called out, “You may enter.”

He heard the familiar footsteps of his servant and oldest confidant approaching. “Forgive me, Baekhyun, I lost track of time.”

The young man looked at his prince with concern, all thoughts of the party below were lost. “Are you feeling well Your Majesty?”

Only then does Kyungsoo turn to his friend. With a soft smile he tells him genuinely, “I'm well. I am nervous. Tonight is an important night to the kingdom. To our family. It is something I would rather not mess up.” The corner of his lips turned into a smile. He could see the relief wash over Baekhyun.

“Sir, you always call us your family–”

Kyungsoo lifted a hand to the young man's shoulder. “How many times do I have to tell you, you are my brother. Maybe not by blood, but certainly in spirit. Everyone in this castle, everyone in this kingdom is someone who I hold dear, closer than family. That is how I've lived, and that is how I intend to rule. The people of our kingdom share together in our sufferings and share together in our joys. That is what family is? No?” It was a rhetorical question, for he already knew the answer.

Since Kyungsoo’s father passed before assuming the throne, he was groomed to be king from an early age. Kyungsoo's grandfather was and still is king and an able body man, at that. There was no need for the kingdom to rush Kyungsoo to the throne. His grandfather over saw all his training and studies, giving the young boy of 10 years control over all trade routes. Needless to say he was taught to learn from his mistakes. The one thing his grandfather always made sure was that his duties always put him outside the castle. Working alongside his people Kyungsoo learned what being a ruler meant. Ruling was not done from an unapproachable throne, but done through being present, available, and working through the hardships together, as a family.

“Of course, Your Majesty.” Baekhyun smiled. “Now then, let's get you dressed to impress.” The boy winked.

Kyungsoo tried not to roll his eyes, if there was one thing he hated more than parties it was getting dressed for said parties.

Seeing the despairing face of the prince Baekhyun laughed, putting on his best King Jungsuk act , “One must look presentable in the face of their future family.”

At that the two young men doubled over in laugher. It was not long before Kyungsoo was dressed in the finest suit, a dark iris dyed material woven with golden threads. Baekhyun placed a matching sash as dark as midnight ‘round the prince’s shoulder. He used a broach of pressed gold, shaped in the likeness of the family crest to pin the sash above his left shoulder. He stepped aside to admire his handy work. “If she wasn't already in love with you I'd say you'd enchant her. But since you're already engaged, you can say I've sealed the deal! You can thank me later.” With a wink the man was gone before Kyungsoo could react.

That bastard. He laughed, He thinks we're together because of him. He's not completely wrong, if it wasn't for him I wouldn't ever look this put together. He gave himself a once over before heading to the courtyard. The guests were starting to arrive, and she was already waiting for him.

His name was announced as he decended the stairs. All eyes were on him, but his were on her.

Gorgeous. Magnificent. A goddess in her own right. These were words he knew he could never tell her. She wouldn't let him live it down. He took in her appearance, a golden dress that shimmered in the fire light. The perfect contrast to her ebony skin. Her body practically glowed. When the fire light hit her dress he could see the reflections dance across her skin. On her head was a matching golden tiara weaved together like vines with a perfect emerald sitting at the crown of her head. Stunning. He told himself. She was nothing short of stunning.

By the time he made his way to her he had forgotten all his words. He was sure he needed to say hello, maybe even bow, but all he did was stare. He stared deep into her brown eyes. He wasn't sure how long he stayed like that just staring, smiling like a fool, but he'd stay like that forever if he could.

She smiled brightly at the prince. “So, you gonna stare at me all night or are we gonna dance?” She raised an eyebrow.

“Stare. No. Dance. No. Definitely dance. Not staring, I mean, I didn't—.” He was still tripping over his words when she laughed and pulled him onto the dance floor. She put his arms around him and leaned close to his ear, “I love you, Do Kyungsoo.” That was all it took, his nerves were gone, his mind was clear. All he could think was, I love you too.