#it's like i went on a plane and one ear popped but the other didn't

[youlooklikeasixtiesqueen]

my ear and teeth hurt slightly but the worst part is that my hearing on the side with the pain is like someone stuffed a tissue in my ear... i assume the jaw joint being swollen is blocking the ear canal a bit because if i pull on my ear and open it up a bit i can hear much better (but not 100%)

[wangxianficfinder]

Fic Finder

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1. Hi! Can you help me look for this fic (cause its been months since the last time I read it) wherein WWX is LWJ’s husband and he is teaching in gusu wearing gusulan robes? I remember students likes wwx that one sect leader went to Cloud Recesses to insult wwx for seducing his son.

Btw, the fic includes photos of WWX wearing gusulan (white robes) (I think they got the image where Xiao Zhan was Shi Ying)

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2. Hi! Can you help me find these 2 fics. Thank you very much

A) Twitter thread fic wherein nyancheng went to book signing of his fav author zewujun.  I remember after the book signing, lxc reach out his hand for handshake and when they shakehands, bolts were felt and they went into heat/rut. Apparently they are soulmates. Nyancheng was embarrassed because his ears and tails pop out due to heat. (I actually forgot lxc animal trait)

B) Modern Au where in wwx is in the airport with police and ambulance because apparently wwx plane went missing for 13 years (???). The people in the plane (including wwx) thought that they have been in the plane for few hours but outside the plane, its been years. Wwx didn’t even aged up while his family (including lwj) aged up

2B)

看客散去唯你我不忘 | the world forgets but i still remember you by prettyxianxian (T, 11k, wangxian, modern, manifest au, flashbacks, multiple POV, angst w happy ending, hurt/comfort, everyone lives au, insecurities, JC & WWX reconciliation, good parent YZY & JFM)

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3. Hey! I hope you guys are doing great and resting in the midst of everything in life and updating this blog as well. Unfortunately, I fear I'm here to add to your burdens 😅

So I was looking for this fic. I remember it being set in the Canon era where Wei Wuxian is just extremely intelligent, and he goes on this  whole tirade about how he came to the conclusion concerning the waterborne abyss witht the use of talismanic theory in the library while Lan Wangji makes the charcoal for him to write and at the end Wangji is just so fascinated by Wuxian while the latter is like, "sorry for unloading that whole thing on you" kind of vibe. 

I can't seem to remember what the name is. I was looking for it in my history, and it's just so difficult when it's just that kne scene you remember. Do you suppose you could help my misery. Thank you in advance. @poetic-writes

FOUND? 🧡 Stunted, Starving Juvenility by TomatenMark (E, 663k, WangXian, WIP, Fix-it of sorts, Talisman master WWX, Not JFM Friendly, Study Arc, Getting together, Fluff and Angst, Engagement)

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4. Hi! I'm looking for a fic where wwx is a musician in university living in this huge dorm. He sometimes hears beautiful piano music (lwj) coming from somewhere in the building but he doesn't know where. They start to play music together and don't know each other's identities. They don't find out each other's identities until graduation or something. @its0nnetflix

FOUND? sounds like through a window softly by impossibletruths (T, 14k, wangxian, modern, college/university au, music au, neigbors, graduate school, music as a love language) on AO3 except that LWJ is a violin player

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5. okay, i once started reding a wangxian fic that was based on another fic called "the simplest way forward" and it was like this, wangxian were roommates and someone dropped Yuan off at their door and that's all i remember because i didn't finish it and now i can't find it, help me please and thank you <3 @akutamichan

FOUND? so take my hand (take my whole life too) by cicer (E, 92k, WangXian, Modern AU, Accidental Baby Acquisition, oh my god they were roommates, Idiots in Love, Mutual Pining, Implied/Referenced Drug Addiction, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, this fic is not about trauma, it’s about the yearning, slowburn)

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6. hi! i was looking for an E rated sbwy gym fic where wwx thinks of him and lwj as really good gymbros. one point theyre at a smoothie(?) place where wwx says hes glad they started seeing each other (as friends) but lwj interprets it as romantic. jc had said wwx was feminine when theyre were 14 or smth and so wwx has a mild complex abt it. i rmbr wwx has an old flip phone and nhs makes a joke how wwx is rich enough to buy a new smartphone instead, also when lwj sends photos it takes forever to load in. i think lwj did soundtracks for movies too? and wwx mentions watching those movies for him. sry thats all i rmbr! i believe its possibly deleted, and if so does anyone have it downloaded?

#6 has been privated I think 😓

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7. For the next fic finder I was wondering if you could help me find two specific Hogwarts AUs?

- Moved to a YiZhan FF/ITMF post

The second one is really vague and I’m sorry for that but I remember a WangXian fic where Wei Wuxian is part Veela and maybe he’s a Slytherin or Hufflepuff? I can’t seem to remember anything else besides there being a focus on Wei Wuxian’s volatile nature and battle prowess due to his Veela blood. He may have also killed a guy, or at least severely harmed some guy in self defense. I loved their world building and I’m so upset that I’ve lost both of them. Thank you for the help in advance.

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8. Hey! Been following for a while and enjoying all the finders and recs from this page!

I have a request though, I'm trying to look for this fiction where wei ying is a general (i think) and lan zhan is a dragon, and there's a war between all sect, with the lans, the nie, and wen on one side, against the jin and jiang on the other. There's also animal shifters among the gentry where I think the jiang might be water birds?? I can't quite remember. The jiang and Jin end up defeated and the others win. Wei ying.is also a genius tactician and is respected by the other side of the war. I can't remember the name of the fiction and I'm desperate to find it. I think it's a completed fic too

Many thanks if you find it! (And could you tag me so I definitely see the post this request shows up if its found?? I forget things easily) @elderredraccoon​

FOUND! Crossing Paths by Ilona22 (M, 21k, wangxian, shapeshifter au, graphic depictions of violence, war between sects, war crimes, not JC friendly, happy ending)

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9. Hi! I'm looking for a WangXian fic where WWX and LWJ go back in time but WWX goes back a very long time before his birth. He holes up in the Burial Mounds and becomes notorious as the YLLZ. He's also pretty depressed I think? When WWX realizes that LWJ is born he storms into the Cloud Recesses and demands LWJ's hand in marriage -- LWJ is only 12 (I think) at this point and LQR and LXC are horrified but LWJ agrees without their input (he still has his original memories). WWX starts out just treating LWJ like a child he's very fond of but when LWJ gets older and becomes an adult, they resume a sexual relationship and I think WWX comments on how they're slowly shifting their dynamics from Kind Mentor WWX/Young Mentee LWJ to Bratty Bubbly WWX/Calm Dominant LWJ. I remember really liking this fic but I don't remember what any of its tags were or whether it was a single fic or a series of one shots etc etc. I would appreciate the help! @sssrha​

FOUND? An Unusual Betrothal by ahealthydoseof (G, 74k, wangxian, time travel, age difference, immortality, BAMF WWX, younger LWJ, older WWX, misunderstandings, fluff & crack, worried parents, rabbits, food, non-sexual intimacy, murder, fix-it of sorts, developing relationship, humor, arranged marriage, jealousy, friendship, family feels, dysfunctional family, fatherhood, angst, hurt/comfort, mentor WWX, natural disasters, sworn brotherhood, serious injuries, kissing)

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10. Looking for a fic, please help! the wens had won the war years ago. I only remember a scene where lan wangji and the juniors were in a shop or restaurant of some sort and wen xu comes in and intimidates lan wangji to where the juniors defend him. He thanks them later saying it’s hard for him to deal with wen xu. (he had lan wangji in captivity during the war, lan wangji still has Nightmares about it). I don’t remember where wei ying is or if he “died”. Thanks!!!!

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11. Hello! I'm looking for 2 fics that I have wanted to rec on ITMFs so many times but just can't find! Both are canon divergent, not modern au.

A) it is a sort of eldritch wwx. He was eaten by a demon that like. Consumed his memories and wanted to be wwx? And then he gets back to sunshot, vomits up wen chaos teeth, has sex with lan zhan and also eats cows whole? Its a good one!

B) this one I remember just one scene. It is post sun shot, a confrontation at the jin banquet with yllz wwx. Yu Ziyuan is alive and checks his core in public and realizes he is coreless (i really think its her! But maybe someone else...). This might have been schemed by wen qing? Fix it after this point i think. @absurdlyadmiredarmchair​

11A)

FOUND! You are what you eat by deliciousblizzardshark (E, 17k, WangXian, Canon Divergence, Eldritch WWX, Horny LWJ, Body Horror, Possession, of a sort, Cannibalism, kind of, Mild Gore, Teeth, Fluff and Humor, Smut, Oral Sex, Anal Sex, Monster sex, Switching, Light BDSM, Rimming, Self-Lubrication, Seriousness treated Crackily, Implied/Referenced Torture, Dead WWX)

11B)

FOUND! seldom all they seem by Fahye (E, 24k, wangxian, canon divergence, arranged marriage, or rather arranged betrothal, weapongrade thirst)

not found Yearning for Miles by Murahi (M, 378k, WangXian, LQR/SiSi, Canon Divergence, Angst, Fluff, Slow burn, Mutual Pining, seeing the future) There is a scene like this quite far into the fic. It's chapter 64 to be precise 😊

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12. anyone know of a fic where wwx falls into the wen treasure room after sunshot, it's the only thing i remember about it

I don't know what the fic for #12, but I think I've read it before and Wen Qing & Wen Ning show a group of people onto the Wen throne room through a back door, and WN had to open it as it could only be opened by a male Wen. There was a big Wen family tree on the wall of this secret entrance.

FOUND! Better Things to Do with a Flute in Wartime by Anonymous (E, 365k, MingXian, WangXianJue, Sunshot Campaign, Fix-It, Magical Healing Cock, Dual Cultivation, mild Dom/Sub, Undernegotiated Kink, Golden Core Reveal, Breathplay, Choking, Painplay, Subdrop, Topdrop, Major Character Injury, Canon Divergence, What-If, Temperature Play, Orgasm Delay/Denial, Fisting, Spanking, PTSD, Trauma, Self-Harm, (in the pursuit of cultivational badassery) Something similar happens in chapters 43-45

Not FOUND! ❤️ Gentians in bloom by teawater (M, 251k, wangxian, Canon Divergence, AU after cold spring, Political Marriage, Dysfunctional Family, Implied/Referenced Self-Harm, Fix-It, Hurt/Comfort, LQR bashing (not really), POV Multiple, Implied/Referenced Suicide, Eventual Happy Ending, BAMF WWX, JC is actually a lot better than canon, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, YZY bashing (again not completely)) the one mentioned with the wen family tree is, in chapter 33

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13. Hi 

Firstly, I want to say thank you, this blog is awesome, and I have found so many good Fics to read as well as find ones that I have lost or forgot to bookmark. 

Secondly, I would like help to find a fic, from what I remember Wei Ying was drunk on the rooftop when someone approached. In his drunken state, he thinks it was Lan Wangji that showed up so he goes on saying things like are you here to punish me again. He also asks why Lan Wangji hates him so much, but the whole entire time it was actually Lan Xichen he was talking to. I think it takes place after he got punished for drinking in Cloud Recess, and then something happens and he almost falls off the roof but Lan Xichen catches him. Lan Wangji had apparently witnessed the whole thing and tried to apologize but Lan Xichen coldly tells him the apology should be given to Wei Ying instead when he wakes up. 

Again, thank you so much in advance. 

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14. Hi 👋,  for the next fic finder - im trying to find a fic i saw awhile back. I cant remember too clearly but i think lwj got separated from the lan clan when he was young and found himself in a brothel. I remember when he was young - he only had to clean etc but as he was growing,  his good looks started getting noticed. I think he also asked someone to curse him so he looks hideous or something. 

Please help me find this 🙏.  Thank you so much 🌸

FOUND? Turn Left by kianspo (M, 204k, WangXian, NieLan, Canon Divergence, Fix-It of Sorts, Friends to Lovers, eventually, references to child sexual abuse, not main characters,  Neurodivergent LWJ, Slow Build, Lán Family Feels, specifically, Twin Jades of Lán Feels, lwj-centric, Twin Jades of Lán Dynamics, Somebody Lives/Not Everyone Dies)

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15. hi! i’m looking for a fic that’s gone missing! it’s a modern au, where lan zhan and wei ying are strangers that are matched by a hotel and are going to spend wei ying’s heat together. it’s supposed to be a hotel where u can safely share a heat without the threat of pregnancy but they throw that out the window and just spend it together. oh! it’s a smut fix lol. but yeah that’s about it. hopefully u can find it, i randomly thought ab and could not find it anywhere :’) 

random detail: lan zhan’s cello fingers were pointed out @alt-stay

FOUND! Lucid by lazulink (E, 9k, WangXian, Modern AU, A/B/O Dynamics, Mating Cycles/In Heat, Assigned Heat Partners, Strangers to Lovers Speedrun, Scenting, Nesting, Knotting, Mating Bites, Cunnilingus, Rimming, Humiliation, Blow Jobs, Breeding Kink, Spanking, Consensual Non-Consent, Consensual Somnophilia, Breathplay, Loss of Virginity, Light Dom/sub, Alpha LWJ, Omega WWX, PWP, Intersex Omegas, Under-negotiated Kink, Implied Future Mpreg)

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16. Strange one again, I'm looking for a fic that mentions the situation at Lotus Pier is made harder by the fact that JFM has his servants, YZY has hers, but because they're so separate, nobody knows whether his servants outrank hers or whose orders take precdence, and how WWX gets tangled in it. Pretty sure it's a Lan commenting on the disharmony, but not 100%.

FOUND? Alliance AU by Ilona22 (E, 17k, wangxian, ABO, arranged marriage, intersex omegas, canon Jiang family dynamics, not JC friendly, matchmaking, night hunts) is 'Lotus Pier' Ilona22 is the third fic in their Alliance AU. It's an ABO series, and the bit about the separate household is from the perspective of a servant there witnesses happy Wangxian at the Lotus Pier markets

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17. Hi! For your next fic finder can I please request this wangxian time travel fic where LWJ goes back to where WWX just reappeared after the burial mounds and LWJ asks him to marry him and WWX takes it as a joke??? thank you! @iyo-luv

FOUND? Lan Wangji's Prank by shiroakuma (E, 23k, wangxian, time travel fix-it, everyone lives au, pining, golden core reveal, YLLZ WWX, first kiss, first time, love confessions, wangxian get happy ending) hi!! so, for the last fic finder, #17 might be "Lan Wangji's Prank" by shiroakuma? i say might bc lwj asks to court wwx, not marry, but this is the only fic that came to mind when i read the request <33

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18. So I’m looking for a specific fic that I know is on ao3, can’t remember the name of the story nor the author though.

And that’s after looking through my history on ao3 for over an hour.

All I really remember from it was that it was short, like one to ten chapters long.

(And yes I do consider 10 chapters short)

It took place in cloud recess study arc, jiang Cheng punched or got into a physical fight with Jin Zixuan, in the classroom if I remember correctly.

Wei wuxian was injured. Somehow, story could be after the waterborne abyss.

Oh and the Jiangs asking WWX why he didn’t defend Yanli. Despite the fact he’s injured on the floor. @ravenwithwings​

FOUND! If only you knew (what goes on in my mind) by makexianxianhappytoday (G, 7k, wangxian, time travel fix-it, angst w/ happy ending, not Jiang friendly, protective LWJ)

Not FOUND! No Refunds, Satisfaction Guaranteed by la_muerta (E, 20k, WangXian, Robots & Androids, Childhood Friends, Idiots in Love, Mutual Pining, Rimming, Come as Lube, Semi-Public Sex, Light Bondage, Orgasm Delay/Denial, Dom/sub Undertones)

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19. Hello! I’m trying to find a fic where lan zhan orders a sex robot/android and wei ying goes to deliver it but there’s a problem with getting it up to the apartment so he goes to the apartment to talk to lan zhan and lan zhan mistakes him as the robot and wei ying for some reason decides to go along with it? Please help I can’t seem to find it anywhere! 🙏💜 @rainingkittens​

Not FOUND! Heartspots & Human Things by flowerofgusu (E, 17k, wangxian, major character death, modern, romance, falling in love, angst w happy ending, with a twist, grief/mourning, versatile wangxian, eventual smut, demisexual LWJ, tragedy with a twist, tenderness, second chances, learning to love again, sex robot WWX, morally grey NHS)

FOUND! No Refunds, Satisfaction Guaranteed by la_muerta (E, 20k, WangXian, Robots & Androids, Childhood Friends, Idiots in Love, Mutual Pining, Rimming, Come as Lube, Semi-Public Sex, Light Bondage, Orgasm Delay/Denial, Dom/sub Undertones)

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20. hello! thank you for your help. I'm looking for a modern au fic where wwx was in an abusive relationship with wen chao (or wen zhuliu? one of the bad wens). all I remember is that a-yuan was wen chao's biological child and wwx wanted to protect him so he suffered the abuse for years and when wen chao went to prison wwx adopted a-yuan. hopefully someone recognizes

FOUND! how to make your dad fall in love with your high school teacher in five steps; the complete and bulletproof guide by ravenditefairylights (T, 90k, wangxian, modern, coffee shop au, nonbinary LSZ, hurt/comfort, trauma, past abuse, past domestic violence, healing, hurt WWX, found family, hospitalization, therapy, single parent WWX, pining, teacher LWJ, unreliable narrator, chronic pain, queer platonic relationship, genderfluid WWX, autistic LWJ, fluff & angst)

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[occasionallyprosie]

"Choosing Your Path"

Chapter 2: "Lives Traded"

The thing about being a hero, especially a Hero of Courage chosen by the goddess Farore and bearing the Hero's Spirit, is that no matter the cost, they will always pay the price to save another.

Febuwhump 2024 | Prompt 16: Came Back Wrong

Event Masterlist

<<Previous

Read On AO3 Warnings: Graphic Violence

"J-Just make sure my body's burned, kid."

"You're barely a year older than me you jerk! Don't do this!"

Hyrule heard Legend's voice fade out, and he wasn't wrong. Hyrule was barely older than him, but he still was older and he was considered an adult in every era unlike his predecessor, so he thought that was a win for him.

When he released his last breath, he didn't expect to inhale again and not feel the pain continue.

He shot up and the rocky terrain of his home era was gone, replaced by lush greens, tall trees, and bright colors in flowers and fruits.

Was he dead? Was this the afterlife?

If it was, then the others only just died too. Or time worked a bit differently, because the seven other heroes were also shooting up, gasping and grabbing at wherever their fatal blow had been.

"What the--Is this heaven?" Wind wondered.

"I was expecting hell," Four deadpanned, his tone not showing the clear disarray his mind and emotions were in.

"I... don't know," Sky breathed. "It doesn't feel like... it's not like the Sacred Realm, it doesn't feel like a different plane at all."

Someone else murmured their agreement. Hyrule stood.

"There you guys are."

Legend pushed a branch aside as he entered the clearing and immediately Hyrule could tell something was wrong. There was something off about his magic, about his eyes, about him.

"Vet?" Hyrule questioned. Did his spell fail? Did Legend still die? Was there a follow-up ambush?

"And you're all together, good..." he trailed off, frowning. His eyes flicked between them, clearly confused. "You guys alright? What'd I miss?"

Hyrule glanced back and, rightfully, they all did seem a little disturbed, most likely at their own deaths.

"What do you mean?" Hyrule asked. "I... Didn't we die?"

Legend stared at him, weirded but still, even the way he looked at him felt wrong. It felt like bugs crawling under his skin, it caused his ears to pop, his teeth to ache, it was like he was getting goosebumps eternally. It felt wrong.

"You... died--What?" Legend made a genuinely confused face. "Okay, clearly something happened since the last switch, so someone walk me through it. We left Champion's era, got split in the portal, I found a village and got potions. So... what'd I miss, since clearly none of you are dead despite what traveler's saying."

"Clearly," Wind said, rubbing his chest where Hyrule vividly remembered seeing a huge gash that nearly went clean through the Sailor.

Legend... didn't remember that? He'd gone so pale when Hyrule had noticed him see the scenes of their brother's deaths.

And the champion's--They'd gone to Hyrule's era right after the Champion's. Was this a... reset or something? Divine interference? Did Hyrule accidentally wish on the Triforce instead of channeling its power to save his predecessor?

Why didn't Legend remember then? And why was he so... Wrong?

"It... It's doesn't matter," Hyrule managed to say, grabbing Legend's arm and pulling him away from the others by a step. He'd protect his younger brother from those memories if that's what this was. "Just... where's the town?"

Legend gave him an odd look, and Hyrule noticed how wrong his eyes looked, they were still red, still that soft, warm scarlet, but something was just... wrong.

He couldn't think of another word, wrong was the only one that worked in the situation.

"Fine, keep your secrets," Legend finally said, pulling his arm free. "Town's this way."

Hyrule looked at the others once Legend's back was turned, his eyes wide and he rapidly cut along his throat.

They all nodded at the same time and quickly followed, some looking more pale than the others.

Wild and Twilight tucked close to each other, Warriors tugged Wind and Time close and Sky was hovering right beside Four.

Hyrule kept up with Legend, trying not to be sick himself as he recalled the gruesome images of their deaths.

He didn't know what was wrong, but something was and he didn't know what.

They got rooms at the inn and with Hyrule and Wild sharing a room with Legend, both were able to sneak out in the night to meet with the others in Time, Twilight, and Four's room.

"Okay, what happened cause last I remember I was..." Wind trailed out. "Dead."

"Yeah," Warriors agreed. "That... That was a definite death."

Time shook his head, pale and clearly upset.

"I... I don't know," Sky admitted.

"We won," Hyrule spoke up. "I... I lost track, but at some point, it was just the Vet and me left, then it was just... just fighting. I took hits but--We managed to finish them off in the end. As soon as it was over, I remember struggling to stay balanced... and I remember the Veteran calling out to me."

"You won?" Warriors breathed.

"Between the explosion and the lightning blast, there was only a third left and we managed to pull it off. Don't ask me how, I can't even remember." Hyrule stared down as he clenched his fist. "I used the last of my magic and energy to heal him, the Vet. Someone had to survive to finish this whole thing, and if I hadn't we both were going to die. Between the two of us, he was the better option."

Nobody said a word.

"I... I died. I know I did. He was... Honestly?" He looked up from his hands, clutching them to his chest as he met their eyes. "The battlefield once the monsters were gone was gruesome. Your bodies were gruesome, and I... I can't imagine how awful it must've been for him when he realized he was the last one. I know I forced that onto him, but frankly, if it had to reset or whatever, I'm glad he doesn't remember."

There was a long moment of silence.

"But that begs the question," Time spoke up, "how are we alive?"

Nobody answered. Hyrule though about it, he didn't make any conscious wish, not even anything that could've been mistaken for one, and it had to of happened when or after he died so...

"The only one who would know is the Veteran," Wild said. "He's the only one who saw the aftermath."

Hyrule felt a pit grow in his stomach. Suddenly that feeling of wrongwrongwrong he had around Legend wasn't something he could ignore.

Legend did something, Hyrule was sure of it. And whatever he did? It was... Whatever he did wasn't right.

He didn't know how he was going to figure it out though, if Legend didn't even remember the fact that they'd died then how could he remember how he brought them back alive?

He wouldn't figure it out, not for a while.

Hyrule took to keeping a close eye on their resident Veteran, he made notes of the things that were just off.

First off, Legend was spacey. He would stare at any single one of the heroes and just... check out, something pained glazing behind his eyes, and then he'd come back as if nothing had happened. It was... more worrying than anything.

Second, he ate less. More often than not, he would poke at his dinners, eat maybe half of it, before pawning the last of it into Wind's bowl. Wind always scarfed it down, the kid still growing and it showed, but Hyrule was noticing that Legend ate less and less of his dinners until this past day he didn't eat anything but maybe a third of his dinner.

Third, he hardly slept. It was hard to tell, but Hyrule had learned to notice a while ago. Legend was his younger brother after all, he eventually figured out how to tell that he wasn't sleeping and now that he did... every watch he had, Legend was awake, even if he had his own watch before or after. Even so, he didn't seem to get more tired during the days.

Then there was just his magic. His magic felt different, weird, it wasn't wrong, it didn't have that feeling of wrongness to it, but it... it wasn't right. It was stronger, to start with, Hyrule could feel it strengthening, but it also was... softening. It was becoming more... more Legend in a way magic straight up shouldn't. There was a clear difference between one's magic and their soul, but slowly, Hyrule was watching that line blur for his predecessor.

It was wrong. Something was wrong and he didn't know what.

In the end, it was another battle gone south that revealed it.

This time, they were in Time's era, but in a forest and monsters closing in on all directions.

It went south fast, Time barely blocked a spear from impaling him, Four was barely missed by an arrow that was probably supposed to hit his head, Sky was stabbed in the stomach and he shoved his attacker off and kept fighting.

A magic shield formed around Sky.

"Heal!" Legend ordered him. Hyrule wasn't sure when he learned to make shields like that, but it drew his attention to him and... well, it distracted him.

Maybe it was irony, that he survived so long last time the odds were stacked against them, and this time...

Hyrule stared at the blade sunk into his chest, the daira that chittered above him.

Oh.

Then the ground split open, it tore apart and swallowed the monsters whole. Hyrule fell but someone caught him, Legend, who threw a hand out at the remainders of the horde.

His eyes flashed pure white.

"Die," the hero snarled as the monsters exploded into smoke.

Hyrule wheezed, that was not normal. That was not--

He gasped, Legend's gaze snapping it him and his gash healing with a glance.

"Holy shit," he heard Wind whisper.

"Don't you dare die on me again," Legend snarled at him, Hyrule gasping heavily. "None of you."

His glare landed on the others.

"Wait--You remember that?!" Warriors exclaimed.

Legend didn't respond. Hyrule reached for his hand and he looked down as he squeezed it, sitting up better.

"Link?"

Legend met his eyes, for now they were amethyst and cold... but Hyrule wanted to know why they turned pure white moments ago.

"What happened to you?" He asked softly. "How are we alive?"

Legend didn't respond for a long moment, just staring into his eyes like he could see through them. A part of Hyrule whispered, the logical part of Hyrule said that Legend couldn't do that, but in that moment, he couldn't believe that. There was too much in his eyes, something different, but he couldn't quite call it wrong anymore. It was Legend, just... more, different, changed.

"Lives can be traded," is what the veteran finally said. "They can be bought back."

Time was the first to ask. "What was the cost?"

Legend stayed silent.

"Vet. What did it cost?" Time demanded, his voice growing sharp and panicked.

Hyrule couldn't help but agree with that panic. He had never known anything powerful enough to revive people to be kind, not ones that outright gave prices, not ones that made deals.

"Nothing I wasn't more than willing to pay," Legend said as he stood up, eyes flashing that new, dangerous flare. He looked over his shoulder at Time. "Nothing I wouldn't pay a thousand times over."

Time grabbed his shoulder. "What did you give them? Who did you give it to?"

Legend sort of just stared at him, Hyrule noted it was with that blank stare he's had more often lately. The silence was long, and it unnerved them all. The way he stared was... pensive, thoughtful, he was studying Time on a deeper level and Hyrule didn't like it. He had just been on the receiving end of that stare and it... It didn't feel violating, like he felt it should have, he trusted Legend, but it had been a deep feeling of being seen and not quite in a good way.

"Humanity," he finally said. "I gave them my humanity."

Hyrule felt his blood run cold. "No--Scholar, hey," Legend looked over at him, "who--Who did you give it to?"

"The goddesses," he answered easily.

As if... As if the goddesses got involved, as if the goddesses stepped in like that; as if the goddesses would care to make such a trade. Eight souls for one? Heroes too? That couldn't have been the goddesses, Hyrule was certain of that, but that meant something took a likeness that Legend associated with one of the goddesses or all of them, and when he was in a moment of weakness and desperation...

Something had taken advantage of his little brother, something had taken advantage of and taken the humanity of his little brother. Absolutely not.

He could not just let that stand.

"I can fix it for you. For a price." 

Legend startled, whipping around with his sword drawn on the... young woman who stood behind him. Green hair, elegant clothing, but a bit of wildness to her. She was hard to perceive, magic wise, her soul did not end where her magic began, it was one in the same.

"Farore," he realized, and he was certain of it. She had the aura as her Oracle, the same power and air, but infinitely more powerful.

She smiled, striding to him and he lowered his blade. She brushed a hand--warm, unexpectedly, it wasn't quite feverish warm, more like she spent the whole day in the sunlight--against his cheek.

"You've grown so much," she murmured softly, her eyes meeting his in a searching stare that went straight to his soul. "You have so much more to grow into... But I'm here to give you the choice of loss."

He stared at her. How was he supposed to respond to that? Was he meant to shove her away or what? What was the choice she was giving him?

"I can bring them back," she nodded to the heroes, their bodies, the blood. "I can take you all to a new era and you can continue as you normally would... In exchange for something you give me."

Legend inhaled sharply. He glanced to the side, at Hyrule's bloodied form, at Wind's nearly bisecting body...

"What do you want?" He asked, voice shaking as he looked at her. He wasn't sure but how was his life worth enough to exchange for eight others? He didn't know what else she'd ask for--

"Your humanity."

"Deal," he said before he put any thought to it. Why she'd ask for that? He wouldn't say no, of course. He'd give anything to bring them back. But why? What did she mean by that?

"All questions would be answered in due time," Farore told him softly, he wondered if she could read minds. "But just so you know, you will never be the same and those attuned to you will notice. You will lose your humanity slowly, you will feel it slipping away from you gradually, then at some point, your decisions will begin to fall into categories and it will be decided."

"What will?" He asked.

"What you will become. A deity, a demon, a protector, a warrior, a guide... it all depends."

A deity--or a demon? She...

"I am glad you accepted though," Farore said and he froze as she placed her hand on his forehead. "Breathe, my dear. Exhale the life I gave you and let's see you forge one of your own."

Legend raised an eyebrow at Time, whose hand still gripped his wrist tightly.

"Why didn't you say anything?" The man asked. "Making deals like that-- How do you even know it was the goddesses?"

"You'd be surprised how well acquainted I am with the golden three's magic, first of all. Secondly, because I didn't want to. Things were fixed, it was easier to feign ignorance than to come up with an explanation that wouldn't be blown out of proportion with such high emotions, and I can deal with the consequences of my actions myself."

"Consequences--" Hyrule grabbed his shoulder and all but forced him to look at him, jostling Time's hand off him. "You traded away your humanity! Do you even realize--Vet, you’re not human anymore."

Legend brushed his hands away. "Actually, I am, for now. It's a gradual loss. I'm less human than I was before, and I will continue to be less until it's all gone."

"That's not okay!"

"How."

"It's--You can't just trade lives like that!"

"And you didn't?!" Legend snarled and he felt his magic--now more volatile and harder to control than he was used to--lash out. "I choose my path, Traveler."

Hyrule reeled back as if struck.

"T-That's not the same thing!"

"Isn't it?! You traded your life for mine, and that's fine, but when I do it for all of you it's not alright?!"

Nobody spoke, they were all shaken by the revealed information, but to be honest? Legend couldn't care.

He cared about the fact that they were alive. He cared that he was slowly ceasing to see their dead, bloodied, chopped forms in their place. He cared that Warriors wasn't soaked in blood with arrows protruding from his body whenever he turned around. He cared that Wind's smile wasn't tainted by the huge gash in his chest.

He cared that they were alive, consequences to his own life be damned. He may become a demon, or a deity of some sort, he honestly couldn't care about that right now. What he cared about was making sure his brothers were alive and keeping it that way.

End Note:

What does Legend eventually become? Who knows! The Fierce Deity, unrestrained by time and eventually trapped inside a mask? Maybe! the Lord of Satori Mountain, slowly losing his humanity to protect the vulnerable (blupees)? Possibly! The next Demise, bitter and angry at all he's endured and lost? Also possible! Maybe he's just an old man in a cave, maybe he takes the form of a fairy to guide a too-young war captain, maybe he's a sheikah painter accompanied by a just as ancient wolf spirit, or maybe he's a dragon flying over the southern tropics of Hyrule with his humanity long lost and forgotten. It's his choice. It's his path to choose and follow, and he doesn't have a map to follow either.

[twofrontteethstillcrooked]

Confession: Destiel Month 5 Nov.

"Do you recall what you said to me in the Empty?" Cas asked.

established deancas, post 15x18 au, lil angst + schmoop for the 5th of November

Dean felt the spell finally vanish; of course he did. Physically, its disappearance was akin to a soap bubble popping, an ephemeral blink-and-you'll-miss-it. And oh, he did miss it: the emotion that swam to the surface was immediate and severe. He remembered, for the first time in many years, hanging from meat-hooks in Hell, the jagged metal that pierced his flesh and bound him taut, pain hotter than fire and colder than ice blotting out all other thought.

This wasn't that bad, surely? He bent himself in half to touch his palms to the living room floor. The couch squeaked beneath him as he tried to ground himself. He focused on the sound of one of the neighbors laughing in the yard next door, an airliner passing far above, a squirrel fussing at another squirrel.

"Are you all right?" Cas asked, voice low as he put a palm on the back of Dean's neck.

Dean let him ease his hand down his spine and sat up. "Yeah. Yeah." He knuckled away a tear that was threatening to spill. 

"Dizzy? Nauseous?" Cas's eyes were full of concern. 

"No, I'm fine. Scout's honor." Dean quirked a quick half-smile. "Hey." He paused, catching Cas's gaze. "Lookin' good." 

Which wasn't a lie in the least, but Cas made a small huff. "I'm not supposed to say you look terrible."

"I don't look terrible, I look sleepy," Dean countered, shifting his gaze away. "Nap had bad vibes, is all."

"Dean–"

"The spell," Dean said sharply. He exhaled when Cas didn't respond. "The, uh. The thread snapped a minute ago, like Rowena said it would." He couldn't look at Cas so he studied his clenched fists. "So nothing's." His voice shook. "Nothing's got you tied to me anymore." He tried to smile. "Should be a relief, for you."

The silence gaped wide as a canyon, ate up the neighbor, the planes, the squirrels. Only Dean's stuttering breath remained. He stayed as still as he could – you can't move, John would've said, or it'll find you – and ignored the salt water raining on his stupid goddamn cheeks.

He startled when Cas began to drag him, carefully, backwards on the couch, until he was wrapped in Cas, his head tucked under Cas's chin. They fit together snug as puzzle pieces. The first time, over a year ago, it hadn't even been a surprise to find out how good it was to be held by Cas, and it was that lack of shock that had made Dean sob. He was close to sobbing now, with Cas's hands rubbing warmth into his arms. 

"Do you recall what you said to me in the Empty?" Cas asked. His conversational tone of voice made it sound like a rhetorical question; Dean was too shaky to answer regardless. "'You're coming, that's final. Nobody gets left behind.'" He paused to gentle his fingers through Dean's hair. "You repeated yourself. I don't mean, you said something you'd said to me once in Purgatory. I mean, you said what you always said, when you came to rescue me." 

A trickle of confusion needled its way into Dean's brain. He shifted to be able to look at Cas, his ear resting against Cas's shoulder. He let the question show.

"In the Empty, I dreamt about you trying to rescue me. Over and over. You rescued me a hundred times. Jack rescued me a hundred more." Cas swallowed. "Even Sam rescued me a couple of times." He gave a little laugh. "And the darkness would swallow us back up, every time." He kept Dean's head cupped in his hand. "So. You'd said what you'd said before, and before.

"And I said, 'I understand.' Every time. Because I knew my line too." Cas smiled, even though his eyes were beginning to shine with tears. "I knew it didn't much matter, since you – and Jack, and Sam – weren't really there. But I went along with it.

"This one time, though." His smile faded. "You didn't play your part. I was just waiting for the inevitable conclusion, the foregone ending, and you– You did something new. You didn't even wait for me to stand up–"

Dean hadn't. The Empty's thick fog had been wound around them like wet wool, like sludge, like every blood-slickened Hell-memory he'd ever wept over in his worst nightmares, and Dean had known Cas would say the right thing but attempt, as ever, to do the noble thing by sacrificing himself – or, in this case, staying sacrificed. Staying in the Empty for eternity, after it belched Dean into the waking world again like a wad of phlegm from its nasty maw. Dean wasn't proud of much, but he was proud of having learned that he would absolutely trust Cas in any and everything except for his having any sense of self-preservation.

"–before you were cutting our palms and reeling off that spell." Cas's fingers resumed their massage of Dean's scalp. "Turns out there were things stronger than the Empty."

"Jack helped. Sam too," Dean said hoarsely. "And Rowena, you know."

Cas nodded. "You remember what I told you when we fell through the portal unceremoniously into the bunker hallway?"

"Ouch?" Dean guessed. He was curious since, in fact, at the moment he didn't remember.

"I took your face in my hands and said, 'You are the most beautiful sight I've ever seen.'" Cas managed, somehow, to sound honest, earnest, sentimental, and matter of fact all at once. "I wasn't lying then, and I'm not lying now: you're still the most beautiful person I've ever known, and I love you. I am in love with you, irrevocably."

Dean's face in the present was suddenly hot like lava and though he was glad of the late afternoon shadows in the room, those did nothing to banish the ache of tears in his throat. "I didn't mean to tie us together, with the spell," he whispered miserably. "I conjugated the fucking verb wrong."

This was a point of some contention, since he had said the spell fast, before Cas could slip away, before the Empty could sever them apart. His mistake might not have been a conjugation one. He might've used the wrong verb altogether. Dean's memorization skills were first rate, usually. His fear had made his teeth chatter; he nearly dropped his blade; dumb luck he'd been able to say any useful part of the spell Rowena had cobbled together from a half dozen terrifying grimoires. His grip on Latin was maybe not as precise as Sam's. Ego animas nostras ducere. Coniungo animas nostras. Animabus nostris iungo. Whichever he'd said, he'd intended: Cas was coming with him, bodily, out of the Empty.

What the spell – its own tricksy entity – meant was, they were bound together as soon as the words pierced the deadened air and he'd laced his bloody fingers through Cas's, and he and Cas remained that way when they crashed onto slightly dusty concrete.

He'd felt the spell like an extra pulse beneath his skin, right up until a few minutes ago. Rowena had thought it would dissipate more quickly since the spell was powerful, sleek, and unstable outside of its original purpose. Dean wondered if his own fucked-up'edness had kept it in place longer.

"The spell never bothered me," Cas said softly. "But I also never needed it as an excuse to stay with you. Please–" His voice crackled. "Please tell me you know that. I'm not going anywhere unless you ask me to leave."

Dean gathered every lousy bit of courage in his heart and mind and eased himself up, pulling Cas alongside him on their ratty couch. He kissed every word he couldn't say yet into Cas's mouth; he smiled to feel Cas's fingers digging into his thigh possessively. The kisses were fierce at first and slowly became more tender. Dean held on. Cas didn't pull away, and it still felt like a miracle. Maybe it always would. Dean sorta hoped so.

Staring into Cas's dark eyes and unable to stop himself, Dean whispered, "Marry me?" As soon as he said it, he knew it was too needy, but he'd barely formed that pathetic thought before Cas was answering, "Yes, yes," with one kiss for each yes and then another that seemed like its own unbreakable spell, as final as a ritual forged in blood.

"I love you," Dean said, and kissed his husband again.

[ghost-proofbaby]

hi it's 🎸 anon i just got back from hanging out with the guy!! He loved the hat and the guitar i got a hug ☺️ and we were hanging out in his dining room building my Lego set (I got this flower bouquet set and let me tell you driving it home was NOT FUN) and his mom was chatting with us for a while. But we got into the legos and we were sitting with our legs touching the whole time and I am aware this is very innocent but it made me very soft inside. Any time one of us moved away or got up we would go right back to it and it wasn't just me initiating it. He kept making jokes about stuff id say about the Legos like I said I can't get it in and he just giggled at me and I was like 🙄 or I said now it's too small and he was like you said it I didn't 🙄 and I discovered I do not mind inappropriate jokes if it is coming from a cute boy and not my weirdo coworker. And he kept looking over at me and watching me while we were building the Legos it kept making me blush. Once we finished building it (and his mom gave me a cup to put them in. His parents are really nice they've both given me things like his dad gave me yarn they randomly had?) we went to his room and he played his guitar for a while and I was very brave about it and didn't melt into the floor. And his dad came in and this is when he gave me yarn and the guy seemed very ticked off that his dad came in while I was there it was kinda cute. Oh and he made me tell his mom about the coworker and she was rightly appalled. but then we went back out after that and his parents were arguing about dinner like hardcore arguing and it was very awkward for 🎸 anon bc the guy was having trouble with his ear I guess he had surgery when he was younger and it like acts up sometimes so he wasn't hearing very well so I don't even think he heard much of the arguing but i didn't know what to do with myself so when he went out to try to befriend cinnamon (this stray cat they're trying to tame) I ran out after him like SAVE ME IM AWKWARD and we sat out there for a while making friends with the cat. And we came back in and his parents were still arguing and his mom just went to bed and I was like 🫠🫠🫠 But anyway we hung out with cinnamon more and I threw cat treats at him 😂 and then he went into their garage and he laser engraved me a keychain with a cat on it and he kept bumping into me on purpose. But I stayed a little longer and then when I left he walked me to my car and I was telling him I think he needed to go up and down the mountain to pop his ear maybe cause that finally fixed my ear from the plane and then I blurted out and you can visit me! and he was like oh I see what you're doing and I was like what ☺️ I'm not doing anything and he was like maybe and I said okay and he said possibly and I said I'll take it and he said maybe possibly probably and I said I'll take that 😂 and then he hugged me and he was like thanks for hanging out and I said thanks for helping me with the Legos and I went to let go and he DIDNT and he grabbed me closer and I literally think he was trying to pick me up or something cause I stumbled and like fell into him and we like stared at each other for a second and I got into my car and he was like okay tell me when you get home and I said okay and I really wanted him to kiss me and im debating on texting him that 🤔

JUST READ ALL THIS AND IM YEARNING BUT I MUST SOLDIER ON TO THE NEXT UPDATE FUCK NONNIE.

also yeah it’s innocent but sometimes those are the things that just get you, you know? like. the innocence punches you in the gut. it’s the same feeling as realizing you’ve found someone you want by your side no matter how mundane that life may be. see the quote, “in another life, i would have really enjoyed doing taxes with you” (i believe that’s how the quote goes aaaa)

[annieintheaair]

Go pretend you hate me, treat me like the crazy one. Yeah, you keep doing you and I'll do better.

Cinco de Mayo was pretty exceptional. I made it to yoga and then decided to head over to MiCocina. I had every intention of sitting at the bar but it was full so I ended up at a table for two by myself. I looked around the restaurant and there were couples everywhere, most of them not even paying attention to each other but sitting at the tables together and on their phones. I realized that maybe I wasn't as alone as I thought I was by sitting by myself.

I didn't need a menu-- I knew I wanted a Skinny Smash Margarita and brisket tacos. The waiter laughed a little when I told him I didn't need the menu. I wish I could be as confident about other decisions in my life as I am about ordering brisket tacos and a margarita. There was no doubt in my mind that I wanted those things. I wish love was like that, too. I wish, instead of needing to swipe on a huge selection of people on a dating app, we could just know, without a doubt, that there was one person we wanted to be with.

I enjoyed my two margaritas and tacos and was going to go to Trader Joe's but instead decided that it was getting late and I actually wanted to go home and crawl into bed.

As my only night off from work, I took advantage and slept late. I've been extra tired lately and although my job wears me down, I think it's also the issues I've been having with my ears lately. I've had multiple sinus infections in the last year and my primary care doctor explained that it was most likely caused by whatever allergies I'm experiencing due to where I'm currently living.

I think it's a combination of ongoing sinusitis and eustachian tube dysfunction. If I turn my head upside down, I get this horrible feeling in my throat and nose. It feels like I went underwater and breathed in the water. I'll drink lots of water to try to clear it but it's incredibly painful. My ears keep getting stuck popped, too, and work has just made it worse with the pressurization. I've had bad headaches and constantly feel a weird congestion in the back of my nose. I called my ENT yesterday and they can't even get me in for an appointment until the 22nd. I wish there was a better solution.

Despite being tired, I was super productive in many ways yesterday. I got up early to take my dogs for their annual shots, which was something on my to-do list that I had really been dreading. I treated myself to a horchata chai latte from the local coffee shop and then headed home to get work done. I finished three whole projects for my second job and felt so accomplished that I rewarded myself with a poké bowl for lunch/dinner.

I was supposed to fly last night to Tulsa but of course, our flight first got delayed and eventually, our pilots went illegal so the flight was delayed until 5am. I had an awkward argument on the jetbridge with an agent supervisor who wanted to board the plane before the pilots even arrived and could brief us about the weather. When the captain finally arrived, he agreed that we could not board and had the passengers go back to the terminal.

There was a commuting pilot who tried to back me up when arguing with the agent and later he told my pilots how proud he was of me for standing up to the agent the way that I did. My whole crew was so supportive and I felt like I did something right for once, even though it was hard. A passenger said something mean to me as we walked off the plane and I just ignored him. I can't control the weather, especially not the tornados in Oklahoma.

I was home by 1:30am and got into bed with my dogs and allowed myself to sleep until about 9am. It was a struggle to get myself out of bed but somehow I managed. I had to cancel my Volvo service appointment today, which was super annoying and a pain to reschedule.

I don't know why but May always seems to be a crazy month for me. Of course, both cars are due for service, my dogs needed their annual shots, and I'm due for multiple appointments like my ENT appointment, audiologist appointment, and even a hair appointment. Y'all, it's going to be a busy month!

Despite being crazy busy and working extra, I decided, while at dinner on Sunday night, that I'd like to do weekly date nights. I have a list of restaurants that I've wanted to try in Fort Worth and since I'm sticking around for a little longer, I have time to explore the places I've wanted to go that I never got to go with Todd. I've never had issues with going to restaurants alone while on layovers for work and honestly, going alone in Fort Worth is no different. Since this place isn't permanent, I feel so much more accepting and brave of going to restaurants alone.

I'm flying to Houston tonight and hopefully, that goes smoothly because I really can't handle another messed-up trip right now. I know I'm supposed to be a palm tree but sometimes, I just feel like I can't keep swaying without breaking.

xoxo

Annie

[lurkinglurkerwholurks]

Chapter Six

And now the final chapter. I was so deeply worried I wouldn't stick the landing when writing this one! It wasn't just finding the right scenario for Jason and hitting all the right emotional beats but also finding the right little pieces of the earlier chapters to thread back into this last chapter to make it all feel cohesive and purposeful. This would probably be easier if I outlined things.

Jason was pretty sure he was going to die, and he was surprised to find he regretted it.

Sometimes having a fully formed first line pop into your head is annoying because the line feels wrong and you have to figure out how to manhandle it into truth. For instance, I was pretty sure Jason would actually be terrified of dying again because it went so poorly the last time, but I didn't even consciously know I thought that until this line popped into my head SOOO not only did I have to work through my surprise at my own subconscious character building but then ALSO I had to figure out how to reconcile two conflicting truths.

Writing is weird.

When he had first come back, Jason had swung wildly between fearing death and running straight into its arms again and again and again. Some days he had fought back that empty dark, terrified to be swallowed whole, terrified to be spat out once more. Other days he had been too reckless and enraged to care. He had challenged death, daring it to take him again.

That's all this paragraph was, the reconciliation.

Jason had pictured himself feeling scared, hollowed straight down to his shoes with a sickening anticipation, like a skydiver kneeling on the wing of a plane.

I've done that and I will say that was probably the most viscerally scared I've ever been. Going up in a tiny little prop plane, going to the open door, and kneeling out of the door on the wing so the instructor person could hook onto me. Not even doing it so much as watching the person I was jumping with do it first and knowing I had to do it next. You're welcome, Jason, I bequeath to thee my skin-crawling adrenaline.

The drugs were doing weird things to his perception, stretching and slowing time, then making it snap back into place like silly putty pulled too fast.

Have you ever pulled Silly Putty like taffy, long and slow, then given it a good yank so it snaps? Super satisfying. And now I'm wondering where I left my Silly Putty. It's been a while.

Jason sucked in a raspy breath and tried to focus. He’d sort of tuned out when the demands started. Hear one set of demands, hear them all, really.

This was actually me not caring at all about what the baddies might be saying and not wanting to figure it out to write it. They'd do the whole ears-ringing-underwater-sound effect in this part in a movie anyways.

Batman didn’t negotiate. Not even for Jason. Maybe especially not for Jason.

Jason Todd is such a little liar. I am always baffled by folks who read his POV and take him 100% as a reliable and trustworthy narrator.

There was a reason he needed to look. He needed to look up. And focus. It was like a voice yelling at him from far away, lost beneath the roar of an oncoming train. He couldn’t save himself, but there was a reason… There was someone on the other side of the lights who needed to see he was okay.

This is the good kush, the arc of Jason from hatred and loathing not just changing to affection and care but thinking of their wellbeing even as he is actively about to die and wanting his family to be okay.

Jason’s lips twitched, then he managed a smile with teeth slick and stained with blood. There. That was defiant enough. It would look good in the highlight reel. And hopefully was enough to convince everyone on the other side that he was… not okay. But himself, at least. He wasn’t scared. When he died, he wouldn’t be scared. Not like last time.

I'll tell you right now, that's for Bruce too. I had to frantically and aggressively keep him way way way out of this entire fic because I love him too much and all the action and emotion would warp around him like gravitational lensing if he were present. (Which made for funny-awful comments from people convinced I thought Bruce was a bad dad. No!!!!!)

If they were going to kill him, Jason would rather they just hurry up and do it already. Torture really wasn’t necessary. It wasn’t just unnecessary, it was tacky. It was— Jason couldn’t completely stop the grunt that dropped from his lips with the first punch to his ribs. Or the wheeze when, after several more hard blows, a rib snapped. But he didn’t make a sound when the idiot snubbed out his cigarette on Jason’s collarbone. Jason had learned to take that one as a little kid. Like, up your game, dude.

I actually avoid torture-based fics. I do not like them. At all. Given the framing of this last chapter, I knew it would be necessary to dabble, but I wanted to keep the details all within Jason's viewpoint and therefore not melodramatic or gross.

Jason jerked as dry, cracking lips appeared next to his ear, so close that the crusty flakes brushed against his skin as the mouth spoke.

I wanted to give this person identifying markers without making it about an accent or speech patterns or something hackneyed and gross like that. Icking people out was a side benefit.

Bruce had never given Jason lessons on withstanding torture. It was one of the few areas where he had been startlingly, blatantly unwilling to give instruction, even though preparing Jason might have meant the difference between safety and discovery for the secrets of Batman. “Tell them,” he had ordered Jason, his mouth set into a grim line. “Don’t try to be brave. Hold on and trust I’ll come for you, but if you’re given the choice between being tortured or telling our secrets, I want you to tell them.”

I will die on this hill. Every single BatKid is trained to keep a secret and literally no secret, not even his identity, is more important to Bruce than his kids.

Jason could withstand anything now. Would withstand anything, both on principle and because no way was he giving these schmucks the keys to Alfred’s basement.

Love that Jason can literally knuckle down and bear anything if he tells himself it's for Alfred. (Because that's a love everyone understands and respects and somehow feels less vulnerable than admitting it's for everyone, not just Alfred.)

He would tell nothing, and he wouldn’t trust that Batman would come. That kind of hope could break a person faster than any tire iron.

This is the thing I think people miss. It's not that Jason is sure Bruce won't come. They filmed him as a hostage and sent it to Batman. Of course he'll come. It's that staying present, staying focused, is too dangerous. Because if Batman comes too late, it will break Jason.

The world had lost all definition, the torture and the drugs reducing it to wildly swinging lights and deep shadows. Men spun around him, crying out orders to each other, weapons waving blindly. . . . The far door burst open in an explosion of wooden splinters. He couldn’t see what was happening beyond. The camera lights had been turned on at some point, then knocked over. The beam slashed diagonally across Jason’s torso and face, blinding him.

I hate describing fights and actiony scenes. If I can give myself a cinematic way out of it, I will. Exhibit A.

“Where is he?” “Hood!” “What have you done to him?” “Where’s our brother?” “Over there!” “Oh god, Hood.” “Batman!”

I don't know how other people do it, but when I write overlapping dialogue like this, I am deliberate about making sure I know who's saying what, even if no one else does.

Jason just hoped the kids looked away in time.

It's important to me that Jason thinks of his siblings (minus Dick) as his baby siblings. "But Cass is—" Nope. She came later. Baby sibling. "Tim is only—" Doesn't matter. Baby sibling.

Ah, Dickie. I’m sorry. Dick’s gaze held Jason’s for a heartbeat longer, then returned to his captor. It felt like a goodbye. “Take him,” Batman growled. Jason closed his eyes.

I know I wrote this, but these three lines make me feel many things. (As I wrote in a comment, re: that first thought line: "I was legit surprised by this. Jason's had ample time to come to grips with how guilty Dick feels about his first death, so the moment he realized Mr. Kumbaya Family Man was going to have a front row seat for round two? Such pure sorrow, I wasn't prepared aaaat all.")

Safe, she signed, hands fluttering like moths. Safe.

Cass chapter callback!

Tim. Just Tim. Tim wouldn’t hurt him. Jason was pretty sure. Not with Dick here, right? No. He was sure, even through the haze of sedatives. Jason huffed out a rasping breath and tried to relax.

I love noting that this is Jason's family, he both loves and trusts them, and he's still allowed to have the briefest moment of doubt before he chooses to push through it. You can feel whatever you like but you still have a responsibility for what you do in response to them!!

“We’re gonna get you back to the Cave, but I need to make sure you’re stabilized first,” Tim was explaining. His fingers were running deftly over Jason, finding every bruise, every broken bone, every wound.

Tim chapter callback!

Jason paused to hold his breath as Tim slid a hand under his skull to feel for bumps.

Was this a The Thief nod slipping in unbidden? Who's to say.

Cass was back, slipping past Damian with a paper cup in her hand.

Another Cass chapter callback!

“Yes.” The word was almost spat and drenched in venom. But not at Jason. “They are fortunate I did not resort to harsher methods.”

Not exactly a clean cut Damian chapter callback but I'm still claiming it. (Also, he's the very last in the room. That wasn't deliberate but it's nice symmetry.)

“Black Bat.” Dick’s voice was low, hushed. It didn’t rumble in his chest like Bruce’s, but more hummed at the base of his throat. “Slipped in from behind. Took him out at the C4.”

There's a whole wide world of leeway before "not dead."

“No. Some days he might wish he was, but he’ll live a long, full life at Blackgate.” 

That, specifically, is in reference to his entire life, not just his paralysis. No family connected to Barbara Gordon would assume something so gross.

Right. He’d known about that trip. That explained why the thugs had gotten a cowled Nightwing instead of Boss Bat. Why big brother had come storming the gates.

I had to physically shove Bruce to another continent to keep him from butting in. 2. Big brotherrrrrrr

Jason tightened his fingers around Dick’s before the other man pulled away. Outside the Batmobile, twin engines revved as Steph and Cass kicked their bikes into gear. Damian settled back against the seat, hand still enmeshed in Jason’s curls, and Tim’s hand replaced Dick’s, his fingers pressed to Jason’s pulse point. They were all warm, these hands, warm and soft like being cradled in sunlight.

*Fast, Furious voice* Family

But for now, he was safe. He could sleep. So he did, surrounded by family.

He started the fic so, so tired, and now he can finally rest.

I am so incredibly proud of this fic. It wasn't the heavy lift that my two longfics were, but it was written to my tastes and remains one of my most popular works. Yay, good job, little buddy.

If the Sky Comes Falling Down (For You)

First posted: January 25, 2019

Focuses on: Jason Todd and his various siblings

Favorite bookmark: "A variety of permutations and flavors of Robin h/c featuring Jason! The Baskin Robins of BatFam h/c, if you will."

Second favorite bookmark: "and so, step by step, the prodigal stray coaxes himself home."

Tier: #3 in hits & kudos & subscriptions, #4 in comment threads, #2 in bookmarks

This is my “behind the scenes” series where I indulge myself horribly by annotating my fics. Link to the fic itself above. Individual chapter notations below the cuts.

Chapter One

First, to note, the title came last and is from "Hey Brother" by Avicii because it was already on my BatFam playlist and gave me strong sibling feels, so it worked!

Okay if I remember correctly, this fic came about because 1) I had jotted down story ideas, all surrounding Jason, that were all just a bit too similar for me to feel comfortable doing them as one-offs, and 2) it was late 2018 when I start writing so I was deep in 5+1 IronDad fics.

This fic was so deeply indulgent from start to finish, which I think might be why people liked it so much? Like, if you're into the tropes into this fic, you're really into them. It scratches the itch just right, because it's my itch and I wrote it for me.

The plan was to do like I did for my other multi-chapter fics (except Nature and Nurture, RIP me) and write it all out before posting anything, so I could be sure that I would actually finish. I don't have that kind of self-restraint anymore. But it was a fun challenge to figure out what should happen to whom and in what order.

Jason didn’t sleep much anymore. He’d always been a rough sleeper, his years spent in low-security public housing and then on the street grinding away at his ability to rest with ease. He slept lightly, his consciousness skimming just below the surface, ready to spring awake at the softest noise.

As I've said before, sometimes I have an idea for a fic but then, when trying to start it, a sentence pops up immediately as my opener. That's always a wild ride because sometimes it seems to have nothing at all to do with where I want to go, so then I have to backtrack and figure out but why tho????

Moving to the Manor had helped some, after he’d assured himself that no one was going to scratch at his door or steal his shoes. The cold mornings had been the best, spent curled under a mound of the softest blankets imaginable atop a mattress so perfectly contoured to his bones that it’d felt like floating on the surface of a pool. He’d slept, truly slept, at the Manor.

I like the idea of, even at Jason's most toxic and vitriolic, the Manor itself still representing safety and comfort. Maybe sometimes he would twist it into stifling or grossly indulgent, but I think deep in his stomach he would know that distortion was a lie. The Manor was safer than anywhere else, even with his mom.

Those days of rest were long gone. The Pit had done a number on his brain—intensifying and altering his emotions, erasing some old habits and dialing up others, leaving dark chasms where memories should be.

I've seen other fics play with the idea of the trauma of Jason's injuries, death, resurrection, and the Pit all combining to some degree or another to swiss-cheese his brain (a phrase I lovingly borrow from Quantum Leap.) And that of course leaves a bunch of really fun room to play with—how much does Jason know he's missing vs. how much is gone or totally distorted without him even being aware? (Again, another thing I tease out in various fics like N&N.)

It was like someone had jammed a stick in his skull and given his brain a good stir. Or maybe that was just the crowbar. Ha.

I made myself snicker with that one. It's so voiceily Jason but also that ha is so guttural and specific in my head, you all will never know.

He was making progress with his budding criminal empire—splashy progress, as displayed on the crusting cuffs of his sleeves and the splattered toes of his boots, but also more subtle progress, too. The subtle form was harder, so much harder, but he knew its changes would be more permanent, in the long run. Splashy got people talking. Subtle got them bowing.

Jason! Todd! Is! No! Thug! He is smart and cunning and uses violence to make an impact and that's that on that.

And though he’d heard her speak before in the careful neutral of the middle-class, the sounds being beat out of her now were Crime Alley crooked.

I like the idea of Steph and Jason growing up in the same neighborhood. It's not a hill I'd die on, but it makes for some interesting fic.

The girl put up a good fight. She was rough, no finesse, no real training. All knuckles and elbows and feet and knees. He spotted some of the Bat basics pop up in the way she ducked and spun, but she wasn’t lithe like Nightwing or crafty like the Replacement. She was a brawler. And she was losing.

She is who he might have been, without Bruce and Alfred and Dick. A decent fighter, stubborn, willing to brawl it out, but ultimately destined to lose.

It sucked in an abstract way, the way it sucked that someone was going hungry halfway around the world, the way it sucked when a stranger missed his bus. It sucked, but it wasn’t Jason’s problem, and he couldn’t really bring himself to care. B needed to learn to pick up his toys.

Starting with Steph made the most sense to me. She wasn't (and isn't) a member I know super well, with so much of her canon backstory being things I have no interest in, and she's part of the Family but in that awkward "we're maybe siblings but also I have a mom and also I dated one of you too??" ways, so she's got a little bit of distance, for me as a writer and also Jason. She doesn't have the emotional heat of the others. He doesn't hate her, just what she represents. He also doesn't care what happens to her, except—

The knife glinted in the amber streetlight and cast a shadow across the yellow emblem on her chest.

She's not Batman. She's not a Robin. She's Batgirl. And that's a different thing entirely.

Jason knew what they saw when they looked at him. He was big now, broad-shouldered and massive in a way he had only ever dreamed of being as a scrawny, malnourished street kid. His helmet was blood-red and gleaming, its angles sculpted to subtly suggest a skull. And his clothes were still stained with actual blood. He was an Alley myth, a nightmare with more bite than the Bat, because he wasn’t afraid to do real damage. He was death.

Jason Peter Todd is scary smart, and he knows how to make the exact impact he wants.

“I don’t know you, but I know your colors. You’re Ibanescu’s boys.”

I had to google Gotham crime families. I know literally nothing other than the name.

It was one thing to let her get the snot beat out of her. And even if someone else had taken a shot at her, he wouldn’t have minded. But he couldn’t. Not in that suit.

:3

“It’s not about you,” Jason repeated, his voice gravelly and rough. He pointed toward the yellow symbol on her chest, the symbol that, in the world he’d left, the world he remembered, belonged to someone else. “I owe her a debt. And now it’s paid.” Jason was a murderer. A thief. A criminal. A drug lord. He had no illusions as to his own goodness anymore, no hope for redemption or grace. But he had his values, the few precious things that he would not allow. One of those, it seemed, was watch a man restrain and stab a Batgirl while he did nothing.

Someday I'll write more about that. The partner and friend and maybe mentor who was still reeling from trauma and hadn't yet found her way when Jason was snuffed out of existence.

Jason was tired, but the night was just beginning.

So that's where it starts. Jason tired, literally caked with dried blood, stepping in not because of love or hate or curiosity or concern but because he felt he owed a debt to someone else and that debt instead landed on the person in front of him.

[jantea]

Uggg someone tell me that what I have written of this one shot is good so I have the motivation to finish it. 😩

Captivity

(An angst one shot about Aizawa and Izuku escaping captivity together. ⚠️ Warning for kidnapping, MCD, medical torture, child death⚠️)

...

"Left turn, thirty seven steps, right turn, locked door..."

Aizawa had it all memorized, but it seemed to put the kid at ease to murmer the steps of their escape plan as they went.

"I'll hand you the lock picks and-"

Just so, Aizawa let go of where he was supporting Izuku's legs around his waist, trusting the kid to be strong enough to cling to his back on his own. Their lockpicks consisted of a bent needle and a long nail, both of which Izuku had stashed in his tangle of green curls. The boy extracted their tools and handed them to Aizawa, who got to work on the lock.

"This step should take between three four minuets..."

It would take less than thirty seconds, if Aizawa wasn't doing this blind and with an uncurable tremor in his hands.

"And the three other guards should have found us by the time we get it open."

Click. The door popped open with a creak, and Aizawa wasted no time dashing into the next hall as fast as he dared while blind and carrying a child on his back. Just as they planed as their first objective upon entering every new space, he felt Izuku let go of him with one arm and rear back, ready to chuck a rock at the light above them with the pinpoint accuracy that Izuku had drilled over and over in their cell, hours upon hours worth of practice paying off now as Izuku took out every light they came across, leaving their journey to be tackled in darkness, their enemies now just as blind as Aizawa.

Just before Izuku let the rock loose...ahead of them...footsteps, a lot of them running, clothes rustling, rounding the corner ahead of them.

"There they are!" A voice shouts.

"Five seven two!" Izuku shouts over the other, just as his arm snaps forward and there's an earshattering crash and an electric hum as the rock presumably passes straight through the single bulb illuminating overhead.

Five-there are five enemies, not three like they were expecting.

Seven two-the enemy's formation. There were three men rushing them directly, one of them slightly ahead of the the other two. The last two were hanging back, and one of them had jumped to hide behind the corner.

...

"Shhhhhh..." the air hissed quietly passed his chapped lips as Shouta whispered, "...you'll wake him."

Hizashi didn't answer. There was a long, weighted moment of silence.

"He's been through a lot." Shouta finally choked out, voice breaking and cracking. "He deserves to rest." Shouta ran dirty fingers through greasy green curls.

"Shouta..." Hizashi's voice was wobbly, scared. "I think we need to give him to the paramedics. I think we need to get you to the paramedics, too."

"No." Shouta's fingers tightened where they gripped a thin shoulder, pulling a small torso closer into his body. A little head rolled against his shoulder.

"Sho..." Hizashi sounded choked. He was audibly crying.

"No." Shouta panted, hunching forward. "I can't. I can't. let him. go." His breathing started comming too fast. "You can't ask me to let him go!" He wished it was possible to close his eyes even when he didn't have any. Shouta settled for tucking his head into his knees.

"...hey, heyheyhey! It's alright! It's ok!" Hizashi frantically tried to reassure. Shouta clung to the sound of his voice. "Its going to be ok, Shouta! Nobody is asking you to let the little listener go!" Hizashi was outright sobbing now.

"...Izuku." Shouta whispered into his knees.

"What's that baby?" Hizashi sniffled and leaned his ear a little closer.

"Izuku." Shouta said, a little louder. "His name. Its...Izuku." Shouta raised his head up, and hoped his wobbly wrong smile was directed at least vaugly at Hizashi's face. "You'll like him." Shouta said, a strange, soft fuzziness to his voice. "You'll love him. He's so cleaver." And then Shouta was rushing to get it all out,

"He made our plan to escape, and he helped me. In there. In that place. And I helped him. And we...we worked together, to escape...I wouldn't have made it without him. He saved me, Zashi!" Shouta clung to his husband's sleeve, outright sobbing himself now. "And I...and I...I saved...I saved him..." Shouta's shoulders shook with the force of his heaves, he almost wanted to throw up with the motion. "I saved him...! Zashi... tell me I saved him! Tell me he's asleep!" Shouta sobbed, weeping.

"...you saved him, Shouta." Hizashi's voice breathed in his ear. "You got him out of there. You did everything right. You did everything right, and you saved him, and you don't have to let him go, but babe..." here he choked, "...babe, he's not asleep. And you need to let the paramedics take care of things."

...

"He was mine!" Shouta cried out. "He was my son! He was my boy!"

[totallyjustabunchofhocuspocus]

For the sentence prompt: 911 any ship, "Let's go there someday."

I just want to preface this by saying you did say ANY relationship, not specifically a romantic one.

I'm also popping a trigger warning on here for childhood cancer, and a referenced (though not shown) canonical death from childhood cancer. Also, my friend, of you hate this I'll write something else.

"Let's go there someday."

The words are quiet, barely carrying to Maddie's ears. She looks up from her book--she's behind on her reading log for Miss Finley's class, and while she loves The Babysitter's Club, she doesn't like being forced to read--and finds Daniel staring at the TV. On the screen, two little kids are running through the streets of Disneyworld, chasing after Mickey and Goofy, then spinning around in the teacup rides, and then watching parades with wide eyes while music plays in the background and a man's voice talks about how great it'll be to watch your family make magical memories. She shuts the book and sits forward on the couch.

"It would be fun," she agrees. It's been a while since they went anywhere on vacation.

They used to go every spring and summer...up to Grandma and Grandpa's lake house on spring break, and then somewhere they all decided as a family in the summer. They would sit at the kitchen table, and Mom and Dad would give them a list of places they could go, and talk about all the things they could do, and then everyone would get to vote. The summer before Daniel got sick, they did go to Florida. They got on a plane, and Dad rented a house right on the water, and she and Daniel played on the beach every day. They went boating, and shopping, and they all took turns picking a new restaurant to try every night for dinner (Daniel had picked McDonald's when it was his turn, and Mom and Dad just laughed and got Big Macs). At the end of the vacation, Mom had promised that next time, Disneyworld would be an option.

A few months later, weird bruises started showing up on Daniel's arms and legs.

"Maybe Mom and Dad will take us when you get better," she says. "Evan will be too little to remember, but that just means we can go again when he's bigger!" She grins at Daniel, and is pleased when he laughs a little.

Slowly, he sits up and leans against her, snuggling into her side when she lifts her arm. He's thin. Thin and bony and she hates how it feels like he's barely even there. She can't wait for him to get better--for color and strength to come back to him. He's going to have an operation, soon, something to do with his bones and Evan's. Maddie's not supposed to know about it, but she heard Mom talking with Grandma on the phone one night when she got up to get a drink of water. Mom seemed really upset, and had been telling Grandma over and over that she was wrong, that she and Dad didn't know what else to do and it was the only way.

She'd scampered back to her room when her mother started crying.

Daniel shifts under her arm, and when she looks down, he's wrinkling his nose. "I kinda want it to be just us. You, me, and Ev."

"Mom and Dad aren't gonna let us go to Disneyworld by ourselves, you big doofus!" she laughs. Daniel, though, just pouts.

"Then we'll go when we're bigger. All by ourselves! Just the three of us!"

Maddie thinks. Imagines all the fun things they could do together with no one to tell them otherwise. She smiles.

"Okay, let's do it. Just us three."

***

"Let's go there someday."

Daniel's voice is gravelly and weak. She'd honestly thought he'd fallen asleep. They're curled up in Daniel's bed, the three of them--Daniel tucked against the wall, Maddie on the other side of the mattress, and Evan cuddled between them. It's very late...none of them should be up, but Evan woke up crying a while ago. He's teething again, and Mom and Dad don't always hear when he's fussing (they've been so upset lately, something about the operation Daniel had last month...she thinks something went wrong, but she's too afraid to ask). Their baby brother is gnawing on the edge of Daniel's blanket, a huge spot of drool growing on the fuzzy fabric, but Daniel doesn't mind. He never minds sharing anything with Evan. He's rubbing Evan's tummy slowly, smiling when Evan giggles and kicks his chubby little legs.

"Go where?" Maddie asks, and Daniel nods at the cover of the book she's looking at by the light of his nightlight.

It's not a storybook. She'd grabbed it at random during library time at school this week, because she'd wanted to use one of the big pillows in the reading corner and there were only five of them. It was first come, first served and everybody tried to find a book as fast as possible. This book is a National Geographic picture book about Hawa'ii, filled with facts about the islands. She hadn't meant to grab it, but now she's glad she did.

"Hawa'ii? Or just a beach?"

"Hawa'ii," Daniel says. Evan finally stops chewing on the blanket and rolls over onto his stomach so he can start crawling towards Daniel, babbling and cooing when Daniel stretches his arms open. "The water looks really pretty."

It does. So warm and blue and clear.

"You can go swimming with dolphins in some places. And snorkeling. There's even boats you can rent with glass bottoms so you can see all the fish and turtles underneath you."

Daniel cuddles Evan close, giggling softly when Evan waves a drool-covered fist in the air and then starts patting Daniel's face.

"Da-da-da!" he babbles. As it always does, the sound of their little brother trying to say his name makes Daniel smile, big and open and happy, the way he used to be.

"We should go. All three of us. Let's do all of that," Daniel says softly.

"After Disneyworld?" Maddie teases.

"Yeah. When we're all grown up and have jobs. We'll take summer trips...every year!"

It does sound nice. A good dream, a good goal. Something to look forward to in the future. When Daniel's all better. When Mom and Dad aren't so sad anymore, and can pay more attention to them, especially Evan.

"Every year," she agrees.

***

It becomes a game. They see places on television, or read about them in books, or Maddie learns about them in school (Daniel hasn't been in school since last year...he has homework that his teachers send, but a lot of the time he doesn't have the energy to do it). Maddie takes one of the notebooks she doesn't use for school and starts making a careful list of all the places they're going to go together when they grow up. When Daniel is better.

They try to be picky. Try to figure out where will be the most fun, where they'll have the most freedom. Maddie sometimes skips a number when she's making a new entry, because Daniel thinks it's not fair that Evan doesn't ever get to pick a place, since he's still a baby. So they decide to leave slots open for Evan to pick when he's older.

It becomes their favorite thing to do, when Daniel stops feeling like going outside, or even downstairs to the living room. Maddie leaves the notebook buried at the bottom of Daniel's toychest, and when Daniel isn't sleeping or feeling too sick, she'll bring Evan into his room and the three of them will cuddle on Daniel's bed and talk about the things they want to see and do when they're all grown up and Daniel is better.

Maddie never asks why Daniel doesn't want Mom and Dad to come on their trips. Deep down, way down deep where she doesn't have to think about it too often, she thinks Daniel must see the same things she does. She and Daniel love Evan with their whole hearts, and Mom and Dad just...don't. She doesn't know why, can't think why, and it makes her heart hurt so much, makes her stomach twist and hurt too, and so she pretends she doesn't see it. Doesn't know. Daniel pretends, too.

They're all curled on the bed, as usual. Evan is napping, one little hand fisted in Daniel's pajama shirt, and the other curled in Maddie's hair. It's not exactly comfortable, but Maddie doesn't want to move.

"Hey Maddie?"

Daniel's voice is barely a whisper. He's so pale these days, his skin looks like paper, circles so dark they almost look black standing out under his eyes. There's a permanent IV port in one of his arms, and a very nice nurse comes by every day to take his vitals and give him medicine for pain. Mom and Dad don't talk about hospital stays or operations anymore. Maddie hears her mother crying in her room most nights, now.

"Yeah?" she says. She's got her knees bent, their notebook propped up on them and held open with one hand, her other hand curled in one of Daniel's and resting on the pillow above Evan's head.

Daniel takes a deep breath, and Maddie suddenly doesn't want to hear what he's about to say. Is sure she doesn't want to hear it. Somehow, she knows her little brother is about to put something into words that can't be taken back.

"I-I don't think I'm gonna get better."

The words hang in the air for a moment, so heavy it feels like they're crushing Maddie. She can't breathe, she can't breathe, she can't...

It's like one of those magic eye pictures her friends at school are always playing with. You can stare, and stare, and stare, and see the whole thing, but you have to tilt your head just right and relax your eyes before you see the picture. Daniel words force Maddie to tilt her head just so, and see the truth that's been staring her in the face for months...ever since Daniel's last operation, the one that Evan somehow helped with, didn't start making him better. She squeezes her brother's hand.

"Yeah," she whispers back, tears suddenly stinging her eyes. "Yeah, I know."

"You aren't gonna forget me, right?"

The very thought makes her sick to her stomach. Forget Daniel? Forget her little brother? Her first and best friend?

"Never," she whispers fiercely. "No, never." She squeezes Daniel's hand harder, and when she looks over at him, he's staring up at the ceiling, biting his lip.

"And you won't let Ev forget me, right?"

"No!" she says immediately, and she doesn't know it's a lie, yet. Doesn't know how her parents' awful, awful grief will swallow her family whole and make her a liar.

Daniel nods, and squeezes her hand back. His grip is so weak, all of his strength gone. Stolen and gone.

"I still want you to go to all the places on our list, someday," he whispers. "Both of you. Do all the cool stuff we talked about."

Their list seems silly, now. A stupid little game for stupid kids. How could she and Evan go to all those places without Daniel? How could they do all the things she and Daniel said they'd do together, all three of them, when Daniel was missing?

But Daniel's bony hand is still gripping hers, and they're both staring at the ceiling, and she can feel tears leaking down the sides of her face, hears Daniel's breath hitch.

"Promise," she says, choked and quiet. Daniel's hand shifts in hers, and a moment later, his pinkie finger curls around hers. "I promise," she says again.

***

The flight is a nightmare, delays and layovers and one bag that somehow ended up in Dallas before catching back up with them at Orlando. Jee-Yun tolerates her first plane ride well, but Chim gets airsick three separate times.

Still, Maddie feels all the irritation and fatigue of the trip drop away when the six of them--her, Chim, and Jee-Yun, and Buck, Eddie, and Christopher are all standing at the iconic front gate.

"Okay, everyone have their iteneraries? Snack bags? Sunblock?"

Buck should look utterly ridiculous, going down a checklist on his phone (Eddie flatly refused to let him bring a clipboard), a sun visor with a pair of Mickey ears perched on his head, a stripe of zinc oxide down his nose, and Jee-Yun hanging off his back like a baby possum while Chimney hovers, waiting to catch her if she slips. Somehow, though, the sight filles Maddie with joy, and she snaps about a dozen pictures before Buck's done going over their schedule.

Chim and Eddie roll their eyes, but they're going to stick to it just the same. Buck's been researching this for months...there have probably been war campaigns less organized. Her brother has apparently been recruited by no fewer than five families on some Facebook group dedicated to optimizing Disney trips to help them plan their excursions.

"All right, Chim's got the stroller, Eddie's got the tickets, Maddie's got the snacks, and I've got the princess!" At that, Buck bends down and flips Jee off his back and into his arms, making her squeal with delight as he blows a raspberry onto her cheek. He scoops up a canvas bag containing a lightweight, collapsible travel wheelchair for if Chris gets tired, and helps Jee-Yun climb onto his shoulders. He grabs Eddie's hand, lacing their fingers together, and then turns an excited smile in Maddie's direction.

"Ready to get this show on the road?" he asks.

Chimney threads his own arm through hers, and they join the rest of their group to get in line to enter.

As they walk through the gates, ready to start the first of what will hopefully be many family vacations together, she cannot help but think of an old notebook, probably still somewhere in her parents' house, boxed up with all the other things of Daniel's that they couldn't bear to throw away, with a list of places, events, and experiences written in her childish scrawl.

She reaches over and curls her free hand over Buck's, where he's lightly gripping her daughter's ankle to help her keep her balance on his shoulders.

Time to start keeping a promise.

[dragon-kazansky]

Til death do us part | Helmut Zemo

Bodyguard AU! 🕶

Gender neutral reader

Collage by @realremyd

[Next chapter]

Part 1

You drive into the parking lot for Stark Industries. You had worked here for the last three years. Hiring out bodyguards was just a small service he provided among other things these says, but you guys had a whole floor to yourselves, so you weren't about to complain.

You parked, got out, and needed straight indoors. You greeted the receptionists at the front desk and made your way up to the elevator.

Over the past few years you had been working as a bodyguard. You had done many little jobs, providing security for celebrities at award shows, or being hired out to watch over parties and events here and there.

The pay was good and you loved your job. Granted, not every job is exciting and action filled, but you have met lots of wonderful, crazy, and questionable people over the years. You have kicked people out of parties, prevented crazy fans from getting too close, and one time had secure a lockdown for a client whose life was considered in danger one time.

You had plenty of stories to tell.

Today you were on your way in to receive your next assignment. Apparently this was a big job and Stark had put your name on the list. He needed the best he had, and you were one of them.

No doubt he had put Natasha down too.

You took the elevator up your floor and walked out. You headed into the changing rooms to put your suit on. It was important you looked smart for the job.

Once you were ready, you met up with the others in the meeting room at the time they asked you to be there.

Steve Rogers was the first one to greet you.

Steve was the head of the group. He, and his buddy James Barnes, were professionals at this job. They had been bodyguards much longer than you had and had secured the rest of the team over the years. It was Steve who trained you in the beginning.

"Glad you could make it," he says, smiling at you.

"I was told it was important."

"You're right about that. This is probably the biggest job yet, and could be quite time consuming too."

"Well, I'm ready to hear it out."

You take a seat. Bucky joins you. Steve slides a file across to you and you open it. You are presented with a photo and a document.

"This is Baron Helmut Zemo. Sokovian royalty. We've been requested to send bodyguards over while he travels through Europe to better his connections or something. We're not privy to all the details. Sam and Nat are already out there, flew put three days ago. You'll be flown over with Bucky and I'll join you in a couple of days. This is going to be a time consuming job, so keep your wits about you."

"Alright. I'm ready whenever," you say, looking at the photo.

He was handsome, that much you could tell. Brown hair, combed away from his face. Dark brown eyes and a confident aura surrounding him.

"A Baron, you said?"

"Yeah. You'll be situated as Castle Zemo. They'll provide rooms. You'll receive your schedule from Natasha when you arrive."

"Alright."

"You can keep hold of the file," he nods at it. You close it and pull it closer to you.

"When do we fly?"

"First thing in the morning," Bucky replies.

"See you tomorrow."

Steve dismisses you and Bucky. You both leave together. You tuck the file under your arm and walk in sync with your dear friend.

"Royalty. That's a new one."

Bucky chuckles.

"It's definitely going to be a job for the books."

"What's he like, this Baron?" You ask, glancing up at him.

"I don't know much. We're not suppose to."

"Yeah, I know. Aren't you a little curious though?"

"Yeah, I am," Bucky laughs, "but I'm a professional, and I'll keep it that way."

"You say that now."

You both knew you would both look him up because you always did. You both just liked to know a little about the person you were hired to protect. You never let anything you knew get out though. You were both professionals.

"I'll see you later, go eat and I'll be round in the morning."

"See you, Bucky."

You part ways and you go home, picking up some food on the way. When you get home you pull out your laptop and sit down in your living room. You lay out the file beside you and look him up.

Baron Helmut Zemo.

His picture popped up again. Yeah, he was definitely handsome. He lived in Castle Zemo in Novi Grad, Sokovia. That's where you would be stationed tomorrow before he flies out.

There wasn't a whole lot of information online. Just a little backstory on his family line and where Castle Zemo was located. Being a Baron, he was only a low form of royalty. Most of the news was about the decline of Sokovia. The country was struggling, hence why Baron Zemo was making a trip to strengthen connections here and there.

You felt like you understood him a little better, not that you were going to let this affect your job.

You close the laptop and finish your meal.

You wake up to constant buzzing on your phone. You reach out and grab it, answering the call and bringing it your ear.

"Hello?"

"Finally, I'll be there in ten," you hear Bucky say.

"Ten?"

"Ten minutes, get up!"

You sit up and check the time on your phone, its5later than you anticipated. You give a hurried 'see you later' down the phone and hang up, scrambling to get dressed and make some coffee to start your day.

By the time Bucky arrived at your door, you're ready and have a coffee in hand. Even have an extra for him.

Bucky actually looks impressed.

"Let's go."

You both hop into the car and he drives you to the airport, sipping your coffees as you went.

"We'll be spending the night in his home tonight, neither of us are on night duty, we'll be swapping out with Nat and Sam when we get there. We fly out for Paris tomorrow."

You listened to Bucky explain.

"What will happen in Paris?"

"The Baron will be escorted to the hotel, all guards will be present on that floor. Steve will meet us there with the last of the group and the Baron will be taken to his meeting spot."

"Just follow the routine, got it."

"You nervous? This is a big job after all," Bucky glances your way.

"A bit, but I'm going to prove to you all that I have what it takes. Nat trained me herself."

"Hey, we know you're capable. For what it's worth, none of us have ever done a job this big before. It's a first for us all," he smiles at you.

"Then we can do this together."

You both nod at each other.

You settle in for the rest of the ride. At the airport, you both quickly manoeuvre through the building. Bucky has the passports and boarding passes on him. You're both at the gate in time and board the plane with ease.

This was your first time to Sokovia. Your first time in the presence of royalty.

You were beyond nervous.

Bucky places a hand over yours and smiles at you. You smile back. It's all the reassurance you needed.

The plane takes off without delay.

This was going to be the biggest job of your life, and perhaps, just perhaps, your life would change too. You just didn't know what to expect when you got there.

@thesuitkovian @justfangirlthingies @belle82devart @zemosimp420 @anteroom-of-death @silverlambcaptain @that-stupid-head-tilt-thing @lieutenantn @daniielbruhl @awesomesauce-abbie @latenightartist-author @lazygurl05 @rumblelibrary @nonamec0s @shura-gorl @ginger-abreu @caligrl1992 @livvyshmiv @luciadiosa @vverliebt @tatooineisdry @charistory @somethingthatsaysbubbles

[supersizemeplz]

Werther’s Caramel

Winston Duke x Black PlusSized Reader

Another #supersizedfic mini. I know nothing about taking a flight so hopefully I got some descriptions right. Though there isn’t many. This was inspired by the tweet below and the initial idea for the fic has been sitting to collect dust until a hour or so ago. Enjoy!

Intercom speakers, commercials from televisions, and blended conversations fought against one another for dominance. Hundreds of tiny wheels moved in a non-synced dance, following behind their owners. Keeping up as best they can as if they were small children with a long legged guardian. The hustle and hassle of the airport was busier this evening than anyone had expected. A small crowd of people were stationed near your designated area, waiting to board the plane that would take them to the peaceful destination of their choice.

An airpod rested in your ear as you waited for your turn to get onto the large aircraft. The soft voice of Sza waltzing through your ear canal. Wiggling your toes against your slides, you could faintly see the white polish they held from the thin fabric of your neon purple socks. "Have a great flight." An attendant spoke out to no one in particular, more likely saying it because it was her job. You flashed a small smile as you walked through the single door and behind the people in line ahead of you.

Aside from accidentally being shoulder checked with someones bag as you passed, it was a smooth transition to your seat. You sat in the window seat, opening the small cover to see the lot of the airport. A few workers moved about quickly as they did they're jobs. Taking a deep breath you relaxed against the seat and smiled. You deserved a break, and you didn't mind having to take it alone. Movement to your eyes brought your attention to your seat mate, you assumed before he confirmed it by putting his carry-on over head. He stood tall, with broad shoulders and toned arms that matched his physique really well. His eyes never met yours but you didn't mind the extra moments to admire him.

Dark gray Nike shorts covered his equally toned thighs. He didn't miss a leg day, you were certain. His matching sweatshirt hid the thin chain he wore around his neck but you could definitely make it out from the light hitting it when he moved around. Once he took a seat and adjusted with the little leg space granted to him, he happened to look over to you. He smiled and your heart skipped a beat. A small gap caught your eye. "Hi, how are you? I’m Winston." His voice sent a tingle over your body as you replied politely with your name.

Nothing more was said once he nodded at your response and you went back to your window view. You moved your focus to turning you phone to airplane mode, happy when a third person didn't come to separate you and the handsome giant. Flight attendants began to head towards the front for their usual instructions and you half listened to their words. Having heard them a few times before.

Though you were relaxed and comfortable with the flight experience, not everyone was as experienced. You looked over at the tense male beside you, seeing him take deep breaths as the flight attendants continued their live action tutorial. He rested against the cushioned seat with a grip to the arm rests on either side of him. A small smile caught your lips before you knew it. First time flyer.

You went into your fanny pack, searching for the golden wrappers that always had a home in your purse. "Want a caramel?" Your voice was soft and easing, catching his attention despite the distraction up front. He looked to the candy in your hand before he looked back at you. "It'll help you relax a bit. You look a little stressed."

Contemplating a moment more, he accepted the offering and watched you pop one in your mouth before following your action. “Thanks.” He enjoyed the candy before he gave a nervous chuckle. “It’s that obvious, huh..”

You gave a soft laugh, nodding. “Yeah. With the death grip you have on those poor armrests..” Turning your body towards him as well as you could, you gave him a genuine smile. “I was the same way my first trip, and I was solo. These bad boys helped a little along with the grip I had on the armrests.”

“Ok..” He chuckled a little, loosening his grip on them. “I guess I didn’t realize how much I’m afraid of heights.” You could still see a little uneasiness in his posture so you became the support you’d wanted in your nervous moment. Holding out a hand, you offered your support.

“If anybody asks I’ll tell them I’m a little nervous.” You winked, teasing. He laughed at that as he accepted your hand. A small squeeze to his hand made him relax more with a slow breath. “There you go.”

He spoke you name after a small moment of silence between you both. You acknowledged him with a friendly, “Yes?”. “Do you mind if I have another one of those caramels?”

Laughing, you took out two and handed them to him. “I told you they’d help.”

Your daughter let out a laugh, stopping her current task of stirring the noodles. “Mama, there ain’t no way daddy was scared of flying.” She sigh happily, shaking her head. “All we do is travel now.”

You grinned. “I got him into it, hunny. We decided to spend that trip together since we were both alone. Going to restaurants and tours together..” The memories of the trip flashed through your mind in pieces. “He took me back there to propose a year later, actually. We got married once we came back and brought two beautiful children into the world, you and your brother.”

“Awww. How come you’ve never told me this story before? I just figured you liked the candy a lot.” She smiled. Her focus going back to the food.

“I do. They’re my favorite.” You laughed, moving about the kitchen with ease. “I just happened to bag you father with them.” Winking, you both giggled at the fact.

"What y'all in here gossiping about?" Winston entered into the room, kissing your daughters forehead before he came to you. Slipping his hands around your waist, he smiled.

"Nothing, just telling her a story from the past.. You want a caramel?" You held up the gold wrapper from your apron pocket. He smiled, accepting the candy with a smile. Pecking your cheek as he thanked you and went back to check on your son. You and your daughter looked to each other once he left the room before laughing loudly.

______________________________

Taglist

@sisterwifeudaku @kumkaniudaku @wawakanda-btch @theunsweetenedtruth @marvelmaree @chaneajoyyy @wakanda-inspired @princesskillmonger @liviy00 @xsweetdellzx @muse-of-mbaku @killmongerdispussy @thehomierobbstark @princessstevens @killmongerthiskoochie @cecereads209 @beautifullmelodyxx @soufcakmistress @melodyofmbaku @awerkofart

[ramp-it-up]

Fresh Squeeze, Pt. 6

Pairing: Daveed Diggs x OFC Linden Marshall

Set in 2023, post-pandemic

Warnings: Cursing, Wild Thoughts™️, Angst, Yearning, 18+, Walmart shopping, Anime discussion, Anthony Ramos. Lots of Plot

Word Count: 2.8 K

Plot: Linden Marshall just finished law school at Columbia University in NYC. Daveed Diggs is still creating magic with his platonic life partner Rafael Casal in the form of their Blindspotting musical, Bay Boys. Linden’s boyfriend WAS Mark Monaco, star of the superhero movie series Invincible.  They were together for years, and her trauma and his addictions were toxic. She knows now that wasn’t love. 

A/N: Keep in mind that this the same AU as Arrivals, with Holly Woods, but is BEFORE Rafa and Holly get together. 

Read the previous chapter.

==================

Isabela, Puerto Rico, May 2023

“We are about 30 minutes from our destination. Please stay seated with your seatbelts fastened. The pilot will let you know when it is safe to do otherwise. Enjoy the rest of the flight.”

The flight attendant’s announcement woke up Daveed. He felt warm and happy. And he had you in his arms.

Daveed moved his head down into your curls, and kissed the top of your head., checking to see if anyone was watching. Everyone was knocked the fuck out. 

You had fallen asleep on his shoulder about 45 minutes into the flight after passing around champagne bottles. You were so cute, but he could tell that your neck was gonna be wrecked when you awoke.

Daveed had carefully maneuvered you so that he could pull up the armrest without waking you. You were dead to the world, so you waking up wasn’t a problem. 

Then, he pulled you to his chest, situating the blanket around you two and leaning back.  If he wanted anything from you right now, at the top of the list would be to be able to hold you like this and to show love.

He questioned that word in his mind. Love, really? He did love you, even if it was only as a good friend. But could it be more? Were you ready for that? Was he?

Daveed looked around to see Craig watching him and giving a thumbs up.  No one else noticed, Rafa was on his laptop and he could have sworn that Anthony and Jasmine were doing something nasty under their blanket behind you.  

He settled back into this feeling of being with you and fell asleep too, happy and content.

You woke up to a strange rhythm under your ear. It was a blue covered heartbeat, you recognized as you opened one eye, and it was insistent and hard, yet warm and safe. You shifted, held Daveed’s torso tighter and tried to drift back off. His arms tightened around you in response.

 Then your eyes popped open.

“Oh shit!”  You realized what was going on. You sat up slowly and squinted at Daveed’s smile and his damn low sexy voice. 

“Hey sleepyhead.”

“Hey.”  

You blushed and wiped your mouth. 

“Shit, I’m sorry…” you wiped at his onesie. “I think I drooled all over  your…” 

You didn’t finish the sentence when you glanced at Daveed and caught his eye. 

What you said that night came back to both of you. D’s eyes darkened and he licked his lips. For a minute, you were trapped by the static energy of your attraction. Daveed could do a lot with those lips right now if you’d let him. 

But of course you fought it.

You took a deep breath and sat up, separating from Daveed more fully. You had to get it together. You reached for your phone and checked your face, making sure you weren’t too crusty.

“Practically perfect in every way.” Daveed was watching you.

“That’s your first mistake.” You clicked your camera off. “ Anything that’s perfect isn’t real. Or alive.”  You had learned a lot in therapy.

“Truth.” Daveed looked at you appraisingly. “Such wisdom from a young one.” He leaned close to you.  “That’s why I said, ‘practically.’”  He was staring at your lips, not wanting to give up on meeting them again.

“I’m not a ‘young one.’ I’m thirty in two days.” 

You lifted your chin as a child would do, Daveed noted.  It was appropriate, because you were being stubborn as fuck right now.

He chuckled and stayed close, not letting you off the hook.  

“And I’m 40. I could be your…”  

The timbre of his voice was causing your pussy to vibrate. Holy fuck.

“...Daddy,” you said, huskily.  

You opened your mouth to breathe, as Daveed grunted quietly in his throat. God, you wanted to fuck him. You remembered that you knew how big he was. Your eyes widened and you watched his mouth.

Daveed would teach you about Daddy. He wanted to rail you until your pussy curved to his dick.  Got damn.

Daveed wanted you and you wanted him. It was crystal clear. He began to reach for you under the blanket when the flight attendant’s voice intruded on your vibe.

“We are beginning our descent into Rafael Hernández Airport, please stay seated with your seatbelts fastened and bring your tray tables and seats to an upright and locked position. The temperature is 75 degrees and the current time is 12:47 am.  We should be at our gate shortly. Thank you.”

That’s it. The moment was gone. You reached for your water bottle and took a drink to cool down. You were grateful.

Daveed was frustrated, as he sat back, brought his seat up, but held the blanket on his lap for a little while longer. It wasn’t fair, he almost had you. He closed his eyes. Now he felt like a child.

---------

The crew finally arrived in town around 2 am, after the two hour flight and renting a couple of cars to get to Isabela, a village on the seaside.

Loud music was playing to avoid falling asleep, Rafael driving one car and Ant the other.

Arriving in town, the two cars headed straight to the Walmart to get some food and things. It was almost 2 am, but everyone was re-energized and playing around, glad to be free for the time being on the island.

Daveed had to concentrate to read the titles in the video section.  His mind kept going back to the moment on the airplane.  But he vowed not to chase you up and down this island. He didn’t want to crowd you.  It had to be your decision.

You had to come to him. And  the thought of you made him want to cum. He’d have you to think about in the shower tonight, or today, whatever.

He needed to stop thinking about it.

Daveed was looking for Black Dynamite to watch in the condo in case it rained. He knew better than to think that Walmart had it, but he tried anyway.

He did see Afro Samurai tho… He picked it up as Rafa approached him with a toy xylophone and a big grin.

==================

Puerto Rico did something to all of you. It was like some weird no inhibitions pollen or something. When you stepped off the plane you decided to not overthink shit. You were just going to respond naturally, fuck the consequences.

This was your weekend, after all.

You walked into the entertainment section and heard some vaguely familiar music. As you got closer, you realized what it was.

Daveed was in the book section rapping “Rubber Duckie” as Rafa played a toy xylophone.

I got my rubber duckie

I'm in the tub with bubblies

He isn't very fuzzy

I know my duckie loves me

Call up my homie Ernie,

You know the orange one, ya heard me

D was going in, being silly and laughing with his bestie. He was fucking adorable.  You grinned at them and turned down the dvd aisle.

“I can’t believe they don’t have Cowboy Bebop.”  

You shook your head as Daveed and Rafa walked up and flanked you at the display, a shopping cart by Daveed’s side.

“It’s a classic.  Children will be referencing the War on Titan and it's after effects a hundred years from now."

Rafa just nodded and stroked his chin, having enough sense to be quiet.

“Wait, Attack on Titan is right here Lindy…” Daveed reached for a dvd and held it up in front of you.

Rafa shook his head and covered it with his hand.

"Spike Spiegel wasn't in Attack on Titan.  That's an entirely different anime series, my dude." 

The sardonic wit in your voice. Daveed just nodded, face on the floor, and put the blu ray down.

You squinted at what D had in his hand. 

"Afro Samurai is 20 years old as well.  You know that and not Cowboy Bebop? You put shame on your house. Old Man.”

You gave him a sexy grin and sauntered away shaking your head.

Rafa had been watching the scene, head on a swivel. All he had to say after you left was, “Boom. Roasted.” 

Daveed just chuckled, surprised and exhilarated at the same time. It seemed that you were up to letting loose a little bit.

He looked at Rafa who just watched Daveed falling. He couldn’t catch him this time.

"Man. Tonight looks like the beginning of an EPIC weekend,” Rafa said as he pushed some more dvds into Daveed’s cart.

Then he pulled a pack of Magnum XLs off the shelf that he had been hiding under his arm from you.

Daveed looked at him. Rafa stared back.

“What?  All these beautiful women on this island. I’m not gonna be unprepared or take any chances.”

Daveed shook his head, grimaced and looked around to see where you went, but you were nowhere to be found.

----

You were busy eating some Hot Cheetos that you’d grabbed on the chip aisle and were turning down the candy aisle when you saw Grumpy Care Bear standing there with a basket full of food, dvds and shit, looking at some sour patch kids.

"Oh hell,"  you said as you turned right back around.

"Ay, yo.  Lindy. You can get your candy. I'm not going to assault you with my inferior anime knowledge."

He laughed that sexy laugh and held up his hands. He sort of regretted calling you back because you walking away...Damn. Even in the Pikachu onesie.

Daveed continued to hold up his hands to show he didn't intend any harm, a smile on the lips that were your weakness earlier.  Fuck me, you thought.

You smiled back at him and went for the Jelly Bellys. You crunched loudly on your Cheetos as you clocked him out on the low. You felt bad. A little. 

"Look, I'm sorry about that in the dvds.  I'm just passionate about what I like."

Daveed wondered if you liked him. Like liked him liked him. He allowed himself to go there. 

You sucked the Cheeto dust off your fingers and it was making D feel some kinda way as he watched your fingers go in and out of your mouth. His eyes began to slide down your body.

He needed to stop. Daveed cleared his throat and looked at your face.

"No problem. I get it. It's all good." 

Diggs unconsciously licked his lips and grinned, causing you to stare for a second at his casual hotness. This couldn't continue. You frowned.

Daveed sensed the change in mood, grabbed his Sour Patch kids and backed away.

“I’ll leave you to it.”

That was a close call you thought as you felt some weird pang of disappointment at him leaving. But it was what it was.

Soon enough, you all left the store.  Rafa stole some of your Jelly Belly’s. You just handed over the pack to him and pulled out some more. You were prepared.

==================

When the crew finally got to the house, you dropped your bags and ran to the beach, celebrating four days of freedom from work, acting, fame, fortune, and expectations.

After a few minutes of staring at the waves, y’all made your way back up to the house.

When you walked in before Jazzy turned the lights on, you recognized a large dark expanse which seemed to be the back wall. As your eyes got adjusted, you noticed the white rolls of the waves on the shore. 

The back wall was floor to ceiling glass.  When the lights came up, it turned into a mirror and 6 characters in onesies stared back at you.

You were at the back of an open concept space with a huge u-shaped sectional sofa and a beautiful, big kitchen with a bar.

Daaaammmmmmnnn! This place is gorgeous!  Craig’s mouth was hanging open. You reached over and closed it.

“Welcome to our home away from home!” Anthony was bleary eyed and smiling wide. 

He pointed to the right of the house.

“Me and Jazzy’s room is over there,” he then pointed to the right of the house. 

“The birthday girl’s room is opposite over there, a mirror of the master,” then he pointed to the back of the house behind you and to the right,  “and the other four bedrooms are here.” 

Ant started pulling their luggage toward their room, talking over his shoulder. 

“Everybody gets their own room, even me, when I fuck up.” 

All of you cracked up laughing whole Jasmine nodded her head.

It was almost 4 am, so you all were tired.  You gladly pulled your suitcase to your room, feeling grateful and warm for being the guest of honor of your friends.  Your room was the bomb.

You walked into a spacious room with bamboo wood floors,and exposed wooden beam ceilings and several floor to ceiling windows.  There was a huge fluffy white rug under a comfortable king sized bed in the middle of the room. 

Two uniquely designed bamboo lounge chairs and white pillow ottomans faced a window where you could look through and see the pool and beach.

It was a luxury get away and right now, all you wanted was a shower and the bed.

You put your suitcase on the floor and got down and opened it.  You shook your head at what you saw.

“HOLY FUCK GOT DAMN SHIT!!!!”

Daveed, Craig and Jasmine came running at your screams.  Rafa and Ant were behind.

“What happened.”

You were embarrassed. But so irritated.

“Craig. You got the wrong suitcase.  This is Mark’s shit that he never came to get.  None of my clothes are here.  I have nothing to wear.”  You felt like crying.

“I’m sorry Lindy, you said that your summer clothes and bathing suits were in the rolling soft Louis bag…”

I mean the large one. This is the medium one. It’s okay, Craig.

“You have nothing to wear hunh?”

Daveed was smirking at you and you ignored it, crossing your arms and tapping your foot.

“But it’s perfect!”  You looked at Jasmine and her chipper British accent.

“We can go shopping for your birthday tomorrow. Treat yourself!”

You couldn’t help but smile at Jazzy’s happiness. She was right. Rafa and Ant went away and left y’all to that talk. Daveed was glued to his spot.

“OOooooh. Good Idea.” Craig was in. 

“Ok.I’m tired as fuck. I just wanna shower and sleep now. I’ll not need anything tonight.

Daveed couldn’t get the image of you in the shower and naked in bed out of his head now. He cleared his throat.

“I can give you something to wear shopping tomorrow, Lindy.”

His voice was soft.  You smiled at him and he was a goner.

“Man, you are like three times bigger than she is?”  Jasmine didn’t understand.

“Hold up. Are you willing to sacrifice, D?  Can we cut up one of your t-shirts and jeans?”

Daveed felt pain. The only t-shirts he had were Oaklandish.  

“Let’s compromise. You can cut my jeans all you want, but not the shirt.”

Craig smiled wide.  “Deal, if you throw in a belt.”

“Damn, Diggs…” was all that Jasmine said, smiling and shaking her head.

“Thank you Daveed. I appreciate it.” You were blown away.

Daveed played it off. “No problem…” And then he just turned around and walked out of your room.

“Girlllllllll!!!!”  Craig and Jasmine squealed at you and it took you a minute to get them out of your room.

You walked into the en suite bathroom and marveled at its beauty. It was large, with a huge tub and a walk in glass encased shower with an overhead waterfall  shower head. 

You turned on the shower to get it hot, stripped off your onesie and your underwear, wrapped yourself in a towel and went back into the bedroom.

You stopped short, because there was Daveed standing in your room, clothes in hand.

He had immediately gone to find his least favorite jeans and the Oakland shirt that would suit you the best.  He decided that you would look beautiful in blue.

You just in a towel was a sight to behold. He was sure that underneath that towel was paradise.

You stared at each other for a minute, Your eyes were glued to his.  

“Th-thank you again Daveed.”  He couldn’t discern if your hesitant, sexy voice was for him or from embarrassment.

“Sorry, I…. didn’t think you’d be… sorry.” He put his hands up and backed out of the room.

“Daveed.” You called, softly. “Stop.”

You approached him with a smile on your face. Daveed’s eyes were wide, not knowing what was going to happen.

“Thank you. I mean it.”

You stood on your tiptoes and kissed him on the cheek, your lips lingering. Daveed closed his eyes and fought the urge to grab you and hold you close to him.

“You’re welcome.” His smile wrinkled his eyes as he smiled down at you. 

“Goodnight, Linden. Have sweet dreams for me.”

You just stared at him as he turned and left the room.

Daveed was just outside your door when he heard your reply.

“Yes, Sir.”

==================

Read the Next Chapter.

Thank you for liking, replying, and reblogging! 

Tagging: @einfachniemand @sillyteecup @commandersmiley @ohsoverykeri @theselilwonders @theatrenerd86 @sebastianabucknettastan @imatyoursurrvicesurr @riiyy @ivycomet @lonelydance @curtainremote @biafbunny @id-do-it-for-free-babe

[drethanramslay]

Perfect (Happy Birthday Bree!!)

Pairing: Ethan x MC (Leah Garcia)

Word count: 1500 words

MASTERLIST

Warning: None, this is just a load of fluff 

Author’s note: Happy birthday @jamespotterthefirst​, the most talented and amazing writer🎂🎂 Hope you have a great day and keep rocking babe❤

I have taken part in @wackydrabbles so the prompt will be in bold 

Title inspiration: Perfect by Ed Sheeran 

Forgive me if i make any mistakes 🥺

"Happy birthday, doctor!" A cheerful nurse greeted as Ethan stood at the nurses' station, signing charts at a break-neck speed.

"Hrm." He answered absent-mindedly, not even bothering to look up from the file and continued to look down at it as of it were the most interesting case but the fact is that Ethan did not care to celebrate his birthday.

But if Leah were to hear that, she would have him by his balls.

And Ethan wasn't one to go against a woman with a mission. She had said that they would do something in the evening and Ethan was low key looking forward to it, which is quite the growth from a year ago.

According to Ethan, birthdays were irrational. He couldn't figure out the entire hype to celebrate the day which is just a marker that you are one year closer to death. Sure it's a pessimistic way to see it but Ethan never promised to have a positive outlook on life.

No wonder Leah calls me the human equivalent of a robot.

The thought just whispered into his head which had him halting what he was doing and a small smile made its way on his lips.

Just her very name has his face splitting into a wide grin. Her very presence has this flux of endorphins in his system that he feels as if his heart is going to burst or a blush would sear through his cheeks.

She was his Kryptonite. Yes, Leah had taught him that reference when they watched that Super-boy movie.

Coming back to his birthday, Leah had wished him in the morning itself which comprises of affectionate kisses with a side of old man jokes.

Or you could say it was the other way around.

She then proceeded to give him a hand-knitted scarf which she made along with this gold plated bar set which he had been eyeing for a couple of months but never had the chance to buy it.

"I hope you like it?" She had asked in a tiny voice, watching his every expression.

"Leah, you are the best gift I could ever have. You didn't have to go all the way out for me."

And it was true. Leah just wishing him was the only thing that mattered to him. Nothing could compare to it. Just like the shine of glitters can't compare to the radiance of the sun. But Leah just pressed her lips in a soft kiss and said that he deserved the best of everything.

I am so lucky to have a partner like her.

He shut the file and submitted the last chart to the nurse. He lifted his left wrist to check the time and he noticed that there was only an hour of work left before he could head back to their home.

With a sudden burst of motivation, he turned down the hallway to visit his next patient.

It would be an understatement to say that Leah was nervous.

The pressure of this entire evening being perfect weighed down on her like a pile of bricks. She paced in the living room, digging tracks from her walking back and forth so that she could work off the nervous energy settling into the pit of her stomach. The posh, classical music did nothing to calm her racing heart down.

Will he like it? The doubt filtered through her head which had her gulping and smoothening the little black dress which Ethan liked a lot.

Jenner whined, sensing her distress. She trotted towards the stressed intern and nuzzled against her leg, stopping Leah in her tracks.

"Hey, girl... Guess I'm just overthinking huh?" Leah ran her fingers through Jenner's silky ears and scratched behind her ears which earned her a happy bark.

The sound of the door unlocking had the duo looking up. Jenner cocked her head before running to greet her dad. His familiar baritone voice echoed through the hallway leading to the living room. Leah ran her eyes around the apartment, just running a final check to see if anything was out of sight.

She had lit candles all around the house and turned the lights down low, to set the relaxed ambience of the place.

But that wasn't the main event.

She had come home early so that she could cook an entire extravagant meal for him. From butter garlic shrimps and stir fry vegetables as appetizers to Pastelon which is Puerto Rican version of traditional Italian lasagna as the entrée. She had used her grandma's recipe which has been passed down for generations on her Father's side of the family. Last but not the least, she had baked him a coffee cake which was the only flavour he liked.

She had set the table out on the balcony because it was a wonderful weather and nothing beats a candlelit dinner under a starry night.

"Leah?" His voice called out and she turned to face him with an incandescent smile which beautifully complimented against the dancing shadows of the lit candles. She walked towards his open arms and embraced him.

Hugging Ethan was something she thoroughly enjoyed, The way this man was all hard and soft at the same time often blew her mind away. The way his arms would tighten around her waist and the way he would tuck her head under his chin was her personal heaven. His cologne mixed with his manly essence was intoxicating, which blanketed her senses, making her feel safe and at peace.

Placing a soft affectionate kiss on her forehead, they pulled back just enough to see each other's face.

"Hi."

"Hey yourself, E."

"So what is this surprise you have planned for me?"

Leah chuckled, her hands looping around his neck. Her fingers played with the short hairs on his nape as she looked at him adoringly. "Eager are we?"

"If it comes to you? Always." He pecked her lips.

"Good. Go get fresh and meet me at the balcony."

Ethan and Leah were having fun.

They had popped open the champagne bottle which Ethan had stored for a special occasion and poured copious amounts into the sparkly glasses. And the food was amazing.

The way Ethan devoured the food and gave compliments every now and then made Leah smile with pride.

"Sunshine, you have to feed me more Puerto Rican dishes because this is delicious," Ethan said as he sipped on his champagne.

"I am not as good as my dad. He can make so many more yummy dishes than me. He actually hosts a cookout Sunday for the boys working at his security firm. I have only been to a few but they are super fun."

"You have already met my dad so I think it is about time I have to meet yours."

A rosiness settled on her cheeks as she smiled back at him. "Of course. I know he will like you."

Giving a smile which has his eyes glimmering like the stars, they went back to their meal. After a while, with their stomachs full and plates wiped clean, Leah rose from her seat. Ethan shot her a questioning look but she just kissed his cheek.

"I baked a cake for you. Just getting it out so that we can cut it, old man."

Ethan groaned as Leah chuckled. "I am not that old, okay? I'm a millennial!"

"Whatever you say, gramps."

She went indoors to take the cake out of the fridge, where she had placed it after icing it. A sudden thunder resounded throughout the penthouse, which had her raising her eyebrow.

Rain? But the weather forecast said it won't...

She placed the cake on the counter and headed out only to find Ethan standing there, with his eyes closed and enjoying the raindrops washing his face. The water seeped through his black shirt, making it cling to the hard planes of his chest. A small smile played on his lips.

"Ethan? Come in, you will fall sick." She said as she stood at the threshold. To be honest, there was a reservation in her voice because it had been so long since she has seen him so peaceful.

"No, I will be fine. Come, join me." His eyes smoldered as they fell on Leah and it felt as if she was hypnotized by his brilliant blue eyes.

She walked towards him and instantly Ethan settled his hands on her waist. Placing her hands on his chest they just swayed to a rhythm of their own.

"Are we really dancing without music?" She whispered as she looked up at him.

"What can I say sunshine... you make me want to dance even when the music stops."

The cool raindrops fell on her flushed face while Ethan smiled down at her gently.

"I hope you liked your birthday, Ethan."

She wrapped her arms around him and placed her face on his chest, this heartbeat lulling her into her own safe haven.

"I won't forget this. Ever. This was by far the best so thank you, Leah. I love you so much."

"I love you too."

I would have attached pictures but a bitch is lazy 😔✊

Taglist: Tagging separately because that seems so effective

[anobscurename]

ocean eyes – chris evans

previous part: PART XVII — masterlist

concept: you surprise chris for his birthday while he's shooting in italy. the slowest of slow burns. the ever anticipated part eighteen of many.

pairing: chris evans x reader

word count: 4.3k

warnings: fluff. just prepare to melt.

author's note: everyone can thank @tonystankschild for this one. she was deep in the dm's asking for fluff and i intended to deliver the fluffiest of fluffs.

You liked to consider yourself a rational person at the best of times.

That consideration, however, was entirely negated by the fact that you were now on a flight to Italy to surprise Chris for his birthday. There was nothing rational about it.

But you had saved for this trip, and Chris had done so much for you in the past year or so, that you had wanted to do something for him.

And you had decided that no one should be alone on their birthday, no matter how far away they were.

You had caught a flight from Boston after making the forty-four hour roadtrip to drive Dodger there, not having the funds to fly him to the Evans' household. The fees of bringing an animal on board were astronomical, and you were still balking from how high the number was.

Chris was a wealthy man, however, and those types of costs never quite fazed him as much as they did you.

So you had driven him to Lisa's, a thousand thank yous on your lips as she delivered you to the airport to minimize on the extra cost of leaving your car at the airport parking lots.

Scott – who had still been there from the Patriot's game, "tryin' to get as much family lovin' as he could" as he put it – smiled knowingly at you when you had brought Dodger in.

"You go, baby vamp," he'd whispered to you. It was an outdated saying, but you knew it anyways, and laughed him off.

"We're just friends, Scott."

"Yeah, just like these highlights are from the sun."

He had given you a tight hug, wished you luck on your trip, and – like Lisa would later do at the drop off – made you promise to wish Chris a happy birthday from them.

When you touched down in Italy, it was early morning, that hovering between night and dawn.

You had once again called Chris' agent – Mark – to get details on the shoot, ones which he reluctantly handed over.

You thought that perhaps he was trying to save Chris the PR scandal of being seen with another woman while publicly in a relationship with Lily, but you had pointed out that you had been clearly established as friend of the couple with your global third wheel memes. It didn't take much pressing, because Mark knew how much you both cared about each other and how happy you being there for Chris' birthday would make the actor. So he emailed you the shooting location, with a schedule and call sheet. The tagline was very quick: "Don't interrupt shooting :)"

After a quick shower at the affordable three star you'd rented for the weekend, you got ready in spite of the weariness the plane left you with. Hot water did wonders to waken you, and a touch of makeup never hurt.

You stepped out in the warm breeze, the wind toying softly with the skirt of the summer dress you wore. You easily hailed a cab, and, after failing at the pronunciation of where you were headed, let the cabbie read the location off your phone.

The first person you saw when you got out of the car was Chris.

He was stood off to the side by the craft table, a crewmate quickly doing a last minute adjustment to his hair as he went over his lines. Dressed in an Italian pinstripe suit, you remembered what the film was about.

The indie flick told the tale of an arranged marriage between the son of an Irish mob boss and the daughter of a New York mafia don. Most of the film, however, was set in Italy, where the son, Mickey, had to travel to win the favour of the extended mafia family for the blessing on the union. Briefly, the scene with the strawberries popped into your mind.

You were stopped by security, but Mark – who had been waiting for you – vouched for your admittance.

You stood a little ways away from Chris, within eyesight, but not obvious. It was a surprise, after all.

You called him, watching from where you leaned against his trailer wall. Chris, ringtone blaring for his attention, quickly patted down his suit pockets before finding the device. His glance at the caller I.D. was followed by his whole face lighting up, soft smile on his lips.

"Hey there, Sleeping Beauty," he said into the receiver. "Isn't it a little late in L.A.?"

"It is," you replied. "But it's your birthday tomorrow, and I couldn't resist."

"You know, I've been told I'm irresistible before," he chuckled. "Just never thought I'd hear you say it."

"Well, what can I say? Suits do it for me," you smirked, dropping your first hint.

Scott was right. Chris really could be clueless. "You'd love the one they just put me in then," he murmured, distracted by the food on display at the craft table as he perused the options. "A real classy number."

"What are your plans for the rest of the weekend?"

"They gave me the weekend off to celebrate, but you know me... Probably will go wine tasting by myself and look at some art or something. Oh, man, read a book. Yeah, haven't done that in a while."

You watched as he plucked a strawberry from the table, and your stomach fluttered.

"Can I ask you something?"

"Hmm?" He hummed as he bit in to the sweet fruit.

"Aren't you sick of strawberries by now?"

Chris froze, eyes wide in shock. Running his tongue over his teeth smoothly and swallowing the bite, he began swiveling his head, trying to look out for where you may be hiding. "Where are you?" He grinned.

"Guess."

And then he saw you.

And then he had you wrapped in his arms, the force of the running tackle hug sending your back crashing into the trailer, metal creaking.

You laughed breathlessly, hanging up the call as you hugged him back.

"Chris," you strained against the bone crush of his fierceness. "Oxygen–"

He loosened his grip, but didn't take back his arms. "You have no idea how much I missed you."

His whispery breath in your hair as he deeply inhaled the apple scented shampoo clinging to you had electricity coursing through your veins. "My bones have some idea, I think you might've fractured a rib."

The rumble of the chuckle reverberated through his body and into yours, and heat dusted your ears and cheekbones. "Sorry, I just can't believe you're here. I had to make sure you were real." And then, the question you'd expected: "Where's Dodger?"

"Dodger is in Boston with your mom. And I'm here, I'm real," you reassured him, smoothing your hands over the back of the meticulously woven cotton of his suit. "But you also have a real job to get back to."

"Oh, right," he groaned sheepishly. In his joy, he'd almost forgotten where he was. "Just hang around for a bit, we're only filming a little today before we're off."

So you did. You got given a seat, just off camera, and watched Chris do his thing. His performance was breathtaking, the way he embodied such a dangerous man. It was enough to make you flushed, the square of his shoulders, the confidence in his stride – the danger lurking under Italian silk lined cotton. You'd never quite seen him like this.

And it thrilled you to see a man you usually felt so safe around look so menacing.

It was the love proclamation scene that served to be your undoing, however.

The director kept hounding Chris, demanding retake after retake. He wanted that genuine love to flow through, and it simply just wasn't.

"Think of someone you love," the director suggested. "Put them in your mind's eye. You have a girlfriend, yes? Would it help to bring a picture for you to look at off camera? Tell the picture you love her. Someone get me a picture of this man's lover, please! Imagine you've never told her how you feel. And you've been feeling it for a while, and even though it was very... what is the English word? Uncommon? It was uncommon meeting circumstances you met... You love her. Si?"

Chris grit his teeth and nodded, ready to comply. And once the picture was brought out, the call for quiet on set rang out.

But once the director called action, Chris didn't look at Lily. Your heart clenched, your breath catching in your throat.

No, his eyes found you.

"I love you," he said the words you'd never thought you'd hear him say – at least not to you – and the sincerity in his cracked voice was overwhelming. His eyes were watery, relief dropping his shoulders – as if he'd kept this inside for too long and a weight had been lifted. He sighed it again and again, as if it was the only thing that was going to save him, as if it's the only words he'd ever known.

And when the director called cut, singing Chris' praises, he was still looking at you.

———————

"I still can't believe you're wearing that," Chris chuckled.

You dipped your sunglasses lower on the bridge of your nose to observe him critically. He was leaning against a Vespa, arms folded, the sleeves of his loose white cotton button down rolled up to his elbows, barely containing the bulge of his muscles. Black trousers clad his legs, on his feet a pair of black Italian leather loafers he'd gotten as a gift from his co-star. He wore his own pair of sunglasses, hair swept back, being tousled by the passing breeze.

The statement had been made in reference to the silk scarf you wore, twisted around your neck delicately in a way that was reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn. "If I'm going to have a Roman holiday," you giggled, tripping a little on your way to the Vespa – Chris moved to catch you, but you righted yourself, "you best believe I'm going to fucking look like it."

You had gone to a wine tasting in a vineyard on the outskirts of Rome, somewhere far into the countryside. You had both goofed off the entire time, earning yourselves scolding looks from the sophisticated tourists and the locals, who had wanted a peaceful afternoon at the farm.

You sniffed the wines, obnoxiously listing all the strange terminology the haughty wine connoisseurs would throw around casually, before taking your sips.

It became somewhat of an inside joke between the two of you, finding yourselves lagging behind the group because you couldn't stop laughing. And whenever you were shot a dirty look, it would only make you laugh more.

"You're meant to taste it," he'd whispered to you.

"I am tasting it," you shot back.

"No, you're chugging it like a sixteen year old whose parent made the unwise choice of leaving unsupervised."

The tour guide had been eyeing the two of you up, waiting for your silence. The rest of the tour group turned their critical gaze too, and you gave Chris' foot a soft stomp to get his attention.

Both of you shut up, giggling under your breaths as Chris had practically bowed in his gesture for the guide to continue.

But now it was time to go back to the inner city, and Chris had waited patiently for you by the Vespa while you'd gone to freshen up a bit. The cobblestones were hell for your tipsiness, but you were wine and laugh drunk, and hadn't a care in the world.

"You know how they say there's always that one pair of annoying people on wine tastings that ruin the experience for everyone?"

"They do?" Chris' brow creased in question as he grinningly handed you your helmet.

"Of course they do. Well, I couldn't find them, so it must be us."

Chris clicked his own helmet in place as he caught sight of the hostess by the front door giving you both a dirty look. "What finally gave it away?"

He slid easily onto the Vespa seat, heeling up the kickstand and righting the orientation.

"Hop on, princess," he beckoned you with a nod. You regretted wearing a dress for this part, but you were serious about the Roman Holiday aesthetic.

Serious enough to risk flashing someone as you mounted the scooter behind Chris. But luckily you didn't.

"Hold on tight," Chris called over his shoulder. You complied, encircling your arms around his waist, pressing your bodies together.

You could feel his heart rate pick up, but before you could think too much about it, he took off – cobblestone streets and ivy climbed buildings flying past you in your bliss.

————————

Two of the three worst things that could've happened to you while riding a scooter in the countryside did.

The scooter had broken down and it had started to rain. Not only rain, but fucking pour. You were drenched through to your skin, pulled over on the side of the road, Chris trying to kickstart the machine into working again.

After his fifth attempt, he came over to you, squinting in the rain.

"It's not working," he shouted over the droning rainfall. "Let's just find some shelter and come up with a game plan!"

There were nothing but open spans of green fields and wheat as far as your eyes could see. But a little while back, just over the hill, there had been lights in the haze of rain, a little nondescript sign on the side of the road that you'd whipped past suggesting the shelter that you so desperately craved.

"I think there was a house back there," you yelled back. "Maybe they could help out."

He nodded imperceptibly in the shower of droplets, hand on the small of your back, fitting so seamlessly in the curve of your spine, and began guiding you.

You both dashed across the road, and then you were tearing through the long grass in a shortcut to the twinkling beacons of the lights in the windows, looking like eyes peering at you in the darkness.

Somewhere along the way, you'd found out that Chris was a little ticklish at his waist, and after you'd discovered it – he'd flinched away from you and begged you to stop, but you'd continued just to antagonise him – you wouldn't let it go. It took you much longer to get there than would be normal, but soon, you were both stood, shivering and drenched on the porch step.

There was a sign on the door telling you it was a little inn – an underused bed and breakfast, most likely for road weary travelers on their way to Rome.

You didn't bother knocking as you entered the lobby, spilling inside with laughter still on both your lips. Muddied shoes squelched, and your sodden clothes dripped onto the floor.

You immediately moved to the fire while Chris went to go confer with the front desk.

His two months in Rome had taught him a fair amount of Italian, but it was still quite broken, and he found himself floundering with a lot of the words.

The landlady – a portly old woman with an extraordinarily kind smile and crows footed crinkles by her eyes – understood the predicament.

She explained to him in English – loud enough in the silence so you could hear over the crackle of the fire – that the road services would probably only be available to come out so far tomorrow morning, and that it'd be best to stay the night.

She didn't seem like someone who would scam you into staying at her little roadside hostel – even going so far as to give Chris some white fluffy towels for the both of you.

He paid for the last room available with soggy money, and returned to you, fresh towels in his arms.

He draped one over your shoulders first, and when you reached out to cling it to your frame, your fingers brushed.

That same electricity jolted through you both, travelling with lightning quick velocity down both your spines to spark alive the restless butterflies you had well and truly thought you had put to rest. You were the first to withdraw, allowing Chris to put a towel over himself.

He ran it through his hair, the pieces that had been plastered to his skin with water raising into spikes.

You laughed, reaching out a tentative hand – giving him ample time to withdraw should he need to – to smooth it back and away from his face.

But your laughter died down, as it inevitably did whenever he looked down at you like that. Because how the hell were you meant to function when his eyes were on your lips the way they were now?

And you damn near choked when he started leaning down, lips pressing closer to yours...

But before they touched, he broke into a gut-wrenching smirk, moving past your tingling and awaiting mouth to whisper in your ear. "I dibs the shower."

And then he was sprinting up the stairs.

You were so in shock that for a minute you couldn't even register what had happened, and when you did, you cursed at him, following him up, swearing you'll skin him alive.

And all the while, the landlady was watching the two of you, a knowing glimmer in those kind eyes. She muttered something in Italian, one she repeated many a time during your stay, a saying you would come to know as "young love."

And she didn't even care that you had tracked mud into her hotel and soaked the carpets through from your wet clothes.

She just cared that there were still kids in love in this world.

———————

Once you had both taken a shower and were wrapped up in your complimentary hotel bathrobes, you realised that neither of you were tired.

Your clothes were laid out, sprawled over the backs of chairs, drying by a fire Chris had taken the liberty of building.

So you both decided to go downstairs, and see what activities you could engage in with the other guests. It would do well to help you forget the prospect of having to share a bed with Chris.

According to the landlady, this was the last room available. And of course, Chris had offered to sleep on the floor, as gentlemanly as ever.

But you couldn't do that to him on his birthday, so you'd told him it would be fine, as long as a pillow fort was built to prevent any unnecessary contact.

The common area was woefully empty, save for a couple of sleepy looking musicians, poised atop their makeshift stage, on the brink of passing out on their instruments.

When you and Chris entered, however, they livened up, striking up some traditional Italian melody you may have heard before in passing.

It wasn't that late, so the bar was still open, and Chris managed to purchase a bottle of wine.

Most of the seats had been stacked on the tables, and he helped you pull some down before seating yourselves.

He poured you both wine, and you sat there in your robes, listening to the music.

The landlady came by, at some point, to light the tea light candle on your table.

When you thanked her, she said the same thing she had said earlier – in Italian, so you struggled to understand.

Chris, however, who had been taking a hearty sip of wine, nearly choked. "Mille grazie," he winked.

She scoffed, patting his cheek affectionately, much like a grandmother would her grandson. You didn't catch much of what she said, aside from one word. Cacciatore, in reference to a flirtatious man.

"What did she say to you?"

"She said amore giovane. It means young love."

You turned to try and find her – wanting to correct the innocent mistake of having her assume that you and Chris were in love. Fact of the matter was, there was still with Lily, and you couldn't stand to think of the PR nightmare it would be if it were to get out that he was at an admittedly romantic bed and breakfast with you of all people. "Oh, no, we aren't..." You faded out awkwardly. "He has a girlfriend!"

"Actually," Chris said softly, as if he had been wanting to tell you this for a while. "I don't. Not anymore. Not since the last day at the Hamptons."

Relief flooded you, followed by something undetermined – hope, you would later discover – before you were floored with absolute sympathy. "Oh, Chris. Chris, I'm so sorry."

You reached over to link your fingers in a reassuring hand hold, and his focus was pulled to that singular touch, that point of joining.

"If there's anything I can do to help..."

"No, it just..." He swallowed, finally pulling those ocean eyes to you. "It just wasn't meant to be, I guess. She wasn't the one."

His eyes told a story much deeper, hinting to something that you didn't have the strength to uncover. You'd been hurt too many times by these false feelings, you really weren't sure how ready you were to face them once more.

"What happened?"

"She thinks I'm in love with someone else." When you didn't say anything again – too stunned to do so – Chris cleared his throat. "I, uh," he tried for a smile, "I believe you owe me a dance."

It took you a while to recall him asking you to save him the last dance at the charity gala, and when it registered, you grinned, questions of who dissipating. "Let's go dance."

The band saw you and Chris approach the dancefloor, and immediately switched to a slow waltz. Chris took you in his arms, and as you both swayed to the music, you could almost imagine you were back in Vegas, before Lily, before everything, when the biggest problem in your life was that you had kissed your best friend on your birthday.

His body was so warm pressed to yours, that you felt every tense muscle in your body relax. That hand – forever fitted so perfectly to the groove of the small of your back – traced delicate patterns through the flannel of the gown.

Your cheek was on his chest, and your eyes were closed, and you couldn't see the way he was looking at you.

Because in his eyes – those beautiful ocean eyes – was a love. The love that you were incapable of seeing, but one that everyone else had – including Lily.

There was worship in every sapphire fleck, and there was pure adoration in the inky depths of his pupils.

And as he held you, body nestled so perfectly against his, knew that the angels would damn themselves for you. Because he sure as hell would.

———————

When Chris had gone to get more drinks – the bottle you had shared being finished – you had gone to speak to the musicians.

And surprisingly, they had what you had requested.

Chris was uncorking the bottle when you had hopped up on stage.

There was no microphone this time, and the musicians were glad to receive a break, joining the landlady at the back for a drink – leaving you and Chris alone in the room. Their departure caught his attention, and he glanced at you, before doing a double take.

You were sat at the edge of the stage – feet dangling off to graze the floor every now and then – and in your hands was a ukelele.

The memory of the last time you played for him was chased away by the excitement of this next song.

You were tuning it when you finally noticed Chris watching you. He had that look in his eye – one you were so used to seeing, but one you never quite let yourself understand – and he slowly sank into his seat to watch you. He propped his head on a fist, candlelight flickering in his eyes.

And without much of an introduction, you plucked at the strings delicately, beginning a ukelele rendition of "La Vie En Rose."

His smile broadened into a beam when you started singing. Never had he felt absolute peace like this – at least without having you in his arms.

Hold me close and hold me fast

This magic spell you cast

This is la vie en rose

You looked up at him, your expression earnest. You always found yourself being much more capable of conveying emotion in your actions, rather than with your words. Words made things messy. Music... that was beauty incarnate.

When you kiss me, heaven sighs

And though I close my eyes

I see la vie en rose

Chris breathed in deeply, his heart stuttering, but heavy in his chest. The hold – that spell – you so flawlessly cast on him was rising again, and he knew, with all certainty, that he would not wish to break the enchantment for anything in the world. He was Icarus, and you were the sun – the magnetic pull he felt was that strong.

When you press me to your heart

I am in a world apart

A world where roses bloom

Your eyes found his and you grinned, beguiling him. As you played the interlude, you mouthed to him "happy birthday;" and it was. It was perhaps one of the happiest birthdays he'd had in a while, because it was the one he'd spent with you.

And when you speak, angels sing from above

Everyday words seem to turn into love songs

His heart was swelling, throat thick with emotion. His eyes burned, but he was almost certain the tears gathering was from a lack of blinking. He didn't want to pull his gaze away from you, not for a single second. He had told you he had loved you earlier that day – and this felt like more of a response than he'd ever receive. He knew how difficult it was for you to say those words. And he was okay with that. He'd take what you gave, and you were giving him this – a song as lovely as the woman who was currently singing it. And he thought he was going to simply die when you looked up at him with those eyes, and that smile, and that voice reaching out to him, singing that final verse.

Give your heart and soul to me

And life will always be

La vie en rose

Little did you know, you already owned those things.

You'd owned them since the night you met.

[crimsonfic]

Min Yoongi Fanfiction (Injury)

Be kind with this one because I wrote that song/ poem off the top of my head 4 years ago. Don’t judge it or me lol. 

"I'm really pissed about it."

I was doing everything in my power not to laugh out loud at him.

Yoongi had fallen down and somehow managed to cut his ear, and the doctors are telling him that he can't perform. They want him to rest.

As it got harder to keep my laugh in I hit the mute button on my phone and just let it out.

"I know you're laughing." Yoongi said after moments of me not responding.

I pressed the mute button again so that he would be able to hear me now.

"I'm sorry Suga." I said.

"Stop calling me that." He growled into the phone.

"No."

"What did I say?" He spat.

"Nothing important." I mumbled.

"What?"

"Nothing, so what are we supposed to do when I get there if you have to take it easy because of your......injury." I snorted before I could even finish my sentence.

I heard him sigh and then the call ended.

I lost it after that. I was laughing until it hurt.

I didn't bother calling Suga back because I knew he was pissed. I'll just call him tomorrow before I board the plane.

I looked at my phone screen and smiled. It was a picture of him sleeping.

I was visiting because our 1 year anniversary was coming up in 4 days. I couldn't wait to see him again. I only saw him once since he came to my house after just 5 months of us dating though. So we went 7 months without seeing each other. We both have gotten better with this long distance thing too. Probably because we know each other better now.

I sent him a text of the heart emoji and then finished packing.

———————

I got in the car and was surprised to see Yoongi in the drivers seat. I thought he was sending a driver.

Immediately I smiled, happy to see him.

He smiled too, trying to hide it.

"Hey gummy bear." I said.

He stopped smiling immediately. Irritated with my nickname for him.

"Ugh, you ruin everything." He said smirking.

"Oh well. Now give me some Suga." I couldn't even say it with a straight face.

He tried not to laugh, but couldn't keep it in for long.

He started the car, ignoring my request for a kiss.

When we got to his apartment I was floored. It was so nice in here. It was huge too.

"Close your mouth." Yoongi said in a dry tone as he watched me as he took me on a tour of the place.

"Shutup."

"Nope." He said popping the p.

He ended the tour in his room. Immediately I frowned when I stepped through the door.

"It's......black..." I said.

".....so are you....." Yoongi replied with a blank expression on his face.

I rolled my eyes at him.

"Yoongi, shutup."

He smiled. Happy that I called him Yoongi.

"It's so gloomy and dark in here. It's like the sunlight died soon as we got in here. And the windows are open!"

"Yes....like my soul." He replied sitting down on his bed and patting the open space next to him.

"Now you know damn well your soul isn't dark. It's pink. For loving, compassionate and caring. " I replied sitting next to him.

He smiled, not making eye contact with me.

I smiled at his actions. Whenever I compliment him or insult him he doesn't meet my eyes. He's so.....fine. How does that make him fine? I don't know, but he's fine.

"Now, let me see this ear of yours." I said turning to face him.

He turned his head and pulled his bandage off.

I covered my mouth. It looked awful.

"Yoongiiii." I whispered.

"How did you fall? What the hell? How does that happen?"

He sighed. "I tripped. Idk...everything else, I don't remember."

I looked back at his wound. Wincing as I examined it.

"It looks infected."

"It's not."

"Does it hurt?"

"Not right now."

"Is it supposed to look like that?"

"Like what?"

"That?"

He got up and walked to his mirror. When he got a glimpse of his ear he smacked his lips in frustration.

"No, I have to clean it." He answered to me, before walking to his bathroom. I got up and followed him. He had a huge tub and large shower that I immediately wanted to use. I'll be sure to take a bath tonight. I could probably swim in there.

He grabbed some products from underneath a cabinet and sat them on the counter. I watched as he poured 2 different things on some gauze and cleaned his cut. Or maybe I should say gash. There was a lot of blood and gunk on the gauze after cleaning it.

My face twisted in disgust. This is so foul.

Next he taped a few small gauze pads over his ear.

After putting everything away and washing his hands he turned around to face me.

I smiled at him.

His expression remained neutral. "Come on." He said as he trudged out of the bathroom.

He got into his bed and waited for me to join him.

When I didn't move immediately he frowned.

"Are you not gonna get in the bed with me?"

I nodded my head, then removed my jacket and jeans so that I could be comfortable.

I got into the bed with him and got on top of him. Automatically he put his hand at the back of my neck, tangling his fingers into my hair, holding me close to him as I laid my head on his chest.

"Go to sleep. You're gonna need it." He said to me.

"I'm not sleepy."

"You will be. Trust me. You're gonna sleep til tomorrow."

"Okay, well let me....let me get up" I tried to get off of Yoongi but he tightened his arms.

"No. Sleep where you are."

"On top of you?"

"Yes."

"No, that's gonna be uncomfortable for you."

"No it won't. Go to sleep."

"You're not going to be able to move."

"I'll be fine."

"Yoongi..."

"You love to argue huh?" He said.

I lifted my head and looked at him. His eyes were closed.

"Stop looking at me." He replied dryly.

I kept looking.

He opened one eye and peered at me. We stared at each other like this for 30 seconds before we started laughing.

"No but seriously I want you to stay right here." He told me, closing his eyes again.

"Okay. Whatever you want." I replied before snuggling into his chest.

I eventually fell asleep. I guess he was right after all. ———————

When I woke I was surprised that I was still on top of Yoongi. He felt me stir and moved his hands from behind his head to my hair. He gently pulled, lifting my head up to look at him.

"Hey." He said.

"Hey." I replied groggily.

He kissed me quickly, but softly on my lips.

"Happy Anniversay." He said.

I looked at his clock beside the bed. It was 3 am. My eyes widened in shock. I slept for 12 hours.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to sleep the whole day away."

"It's okay. That's what happens when you fly over here. You lose track of time."

"I'm confused."

"About what?"

"Our anniversary was 3 days away. It's only been 1 night."

"Baby.... When you had 4 days left til our anniversary, I only had 3. Korea is 17 hours ahead of California.. It took you 17 hours to fly here, You basically lost 2 days just from getting here. And now that you slept, here we are."

I still don't get it.

"Don't try to figure it out, just.....Happy Anniversary." He smiled a lazy grin at me.

"Happy Anniversary." I smiled back, kissing him again. "Remember you were doubting me cause of my stripper booty?"

He laughed. "Yeah. Sorry."

"Mhmm."

"Remember when you first met me and put your butt right in front of me on our picture?"

"Yep." I smiled.

"I was so embarrassed."

"Why?"

"Cause I wanted to look at it but it would've gotten me in trouble."

He laughed and shook his head.

"Had to let you know."

"Let me know what?"

"That it was yours."

"Oh, is that what you were doing?"

He moved his hands from my hair down to my butt, before grabbing it and jiggling it.

Whenever Yoongi touches my butt I felt so immature. I'd giggle or snort and start blushing.

I buried my face in his chest to hide my laughter.

"Come on nerd." He replied, smacking my butt one time, signaling that he wanted me to get up.

I rolled off of him. "Where are we going?"

"Don't ask questions."

After he got up he held his hand out to me. I took it and he led me out of his room and downstairs.

When we walked into a studio he gestured for me to sit down. I obeyed and watched as he pressed a few buttons, until music filled the room. He grabbed a piece of paper and handed it to me.

It was a song, maybe a poem. The title read "You Surprise Me".

"Is this for me?" I asked feeling my heart drop.

"Yeah."

"A song? For me?" I asked, still shocked.

"Yeah." He said nonchalantly.

"Here." I said handing him the paper back.

"It's yours."

"I know, but aren't you gonna perform it?"

He scratched the back of his head. "I was.....but I'm not...so sure anymore."

My brows knitted together in confusion. "How come?"

"Cause....I haven't really made it into a song yet. It's still like a draft, I haven't worked on it enough."

"So it's just a poem for now." I stated. "Are you nervous?"

He smiled sheepishly. "No."

"Then come on." I smiled shaking the paper at him.

"I don't need it."

"Okay." I smiled even more. I crossed my legs and got comfortable. Signaling that I was ready when he was.

"I never knew I needed you My life was going just fine But you made sure that I seen you Even offered your time

When we met again You made it clear you were interested Your demeanor was impeccable So self assured, and so confident

You staked your claim Not impressed by my fame You only saw me for me and for that I was lucky

I Even fucked up once Acting all pathetic and crazy You handled it with grace And even fucking forgave me

Kept in touch, though it was rough And you never gave up You gave your all for your man I vowed to never trip again Knew if I wanted to keep you I'd have to do all that I can

I'm feeling all kinds of things Most of it brand new to me You got my heart stuttering And that surprises me

First you claimed me Then you changed me Got me planning ahead When I wake up in the morning I  hope it's you in my bed

Your smile is flawless Your love is endless Your presence is a must I couldn't survive without it

Your heart; my heart They literally beat the same Cause of the passion you lit inside me I promise to give you my name

All the love you have for me All the things you've taught me It's too much to express Babygirl you really surprise me"

"I have to give it a chorus, find a beat, and maybe add a hook. It's a work in progress" Yoongi said while looking down at the floor.

My hands were covering my mouth. I was floored. I've been stuck this way since the very first line.

After a few more moments of silence Yoongi peeked up through his lashes and looked at me.

I finally found my mobility.

I stood up and closed the distance between us. I grabbed his face between both of my hands, planning on kissing him, but he winced in pain at my touch. I dropped my hands quickly.

"I'm sorry I forgot about your ear, you okay?"

"Yeah" he replied covering his injured ear. "I should probably change my bandage."

We walked back up to his room and went into the bathroom to change his gauze.

"Here, let me." I said grabbing the stuff.

As I cleaned and prepped his wound he watched me through the mirror.

"There you go." I said after putting everything away.

"Thanks."

"Of course."

He continued looking at me but remained silent.

"Baby...." I said.

"Yes?" He asked, turning to look at me directly instead of in the mirror.

"I love you."

He smiled.

"I love you too." He replied pulling me close to him and wrapping his arms around my waist.

*******

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Injury | Insecurity | Part 4

[punkrock-writer]

Space Cowboy- part 5

Never Fight a Man With a Perm

Pairing- Din Djarin x F!OC 

Warnings- Swearing, Mentions Blood, Canon Typical Violence. The Gang from Chapter 6 are dicks. 

A/N- Howdy!! I’m so sorry this took so long to come out. I had a bad case of brain rot this past week and did not want to type, but it’s here and I hope ya’ll like it! I’m kind of nervous about this chapter because this was the situation that inspired the entire story, so please let me know what you think! 

I’m going to try to have the next chapter out quicker! Put who knows, I got worms in my brain! 

Masterlist AO3 

After almost taking another roll around the ship — thanks to Din's lack of a warning — Sedona was now aware of what hyperspace felt like. It was actually rather calm, quiet, and still. She wished she could see it, but she didn't really know if she should attempt to enter the cockpit. Instead, turning to face her bags, she figured it was a good time to get some real clothes on. The child cooed sadly when she set him down in the sleeping compartment, and though she hated to, she ignored him and knelt by her suitcase. Searching for something somewhat warm through the clothes that were packed for Florida was proving difficult. She settled on black leggings, an old grey Ron Jon Surf Shop hoodie, and a pair of soft crew socks. A sports bra and a fresh pair of underwear completed the 'look' and she gathered her things and headed to the shower room.

Not before quickly turning back and grabbing her deodorant, because, yuck.

With a deep breath, she decided it was finally time to look at herself.

Nothing was exciting or truly different to note about the person reflected back to her in the foggy mirror. It was the same girl, blue eyes, short brown hair, but now there was a brand new massive bruise on her left temple. Her dark circles were deeper, and her eyes were tired. But other than the wound there was nothing new. She discarded her pajamas, and slipped into the clean clothes, she never thought it would feel this good to be fully covered. Her arms all the way to her toes now concealed in comfortable fabric, and she was grateful. She quickly put her hair into a folded bun, and set to her second task, putting that extra bacta patch on her head.

Peli made it look much easier. Whatever it was, was slimy and hard to get a grip on, but once it was placed, it stuck. So now she had a slightly lopsided, oversized band-aid on her head. And she knew it was going to hurt like a bitch to yank out of her hair. Taking one last look in the mirror, she sighed.

Honestly, she looked like she was about to go take a plane trip back home, and it tugged her heart a little bit.

Shaking her head she picked her things back up and opened the door to exit into the hull. A shiny helmet of beskar startled her, he must've just jumped down from the cockpit, as he was facing her through the ladder. She tried not to think too much about the way he stared for a bit too long, most likely just assessing her change in appearance. Before she could say anything he turned sharply, stepping over to where the child pouted in the sleeping compartment. She scooted by them, heading to put her things back in her bag. And when she straightened up to see what he was doing, he was already halfway up the ladder, taking the child with him.

Sedona tried not to dwell on it too much, it's not like he knew her, he barely even trusted her. He didn't owe her any more kindness than he was already giving her. But it really didn't help when she felt like she knew him. She needed to get that idea out of her head, she didn't know jack shit about what went through his head. Seeing someone on screen is so much different than actually being around them, and Sedona had to make sure she didn't get too comfortable too fast— she couldn't afford any slip-ups. So for now she would take it slow, tiptoe around the Crest, and do what she needed to do when called.

In pursuit of being quiet, she decided now might be a good time to check her phone. She settled herself in the sleeping compartment, purse in her lap, and plucked it from the bag. The time read 10:34 am, and obviously, there was no way of telling if that was right. Her calendar read two days since she had been ripped from her hotel room, and she was pretty sure that would be reliable. As long as she had some way of knowing how long she'd been here, she could keep herself grounded.

It didn't even cross her mind that she should try to find some way to get back home.

Sedona dozed off after a while, curled around her purse in the sleeping compartment. Her circadian rhythm was thrown off, or maybe it was like some kind of space-sickness. She was just tired, and she didn't know what else to do. The plot was getting scrambled in her head, and until Din jogged her mind in some way, she wasn't going to risk getting a headache thinking about it.

So she slept, the soft hum of hyperspace lulling her into relaxation, no matter how uncomfortable the bed was.

~o~o~o~

That was how Din found her a few hours later. Curled like a lothcat around one of her smaller bags. The child gurgled in happiness at the sight of her— he was the reason they were down there, wailing incessantly at the ladder. He didn't understand why he liked her so much, but if he trusted anyone, it was the child. So he set him down next to her knees, a position they had just recently been in. The child began climbing up her legs, and Din could only look on in amusement as she grumbled something incoherent.

The toddler reached his intended destination, her shoulder, and began to tap his tiny hands on her cheek. Din couldn't stop a small smile from breaking his features, thankful for the helmet once again. Her eyes popped open, panic clear on her features as she turned to look at what was tapping her face, and a smile overtook her.

"Hey little guy, how'd you get up there." Din pretended not to notice the roughness of her voice or the sleepy smile that turned to face him. "Oh I see now, you had an accomplice."

She slowly sat up, taking care to hold the child steady. She folded her legs in front of her, setting him in her lap. The child smiled up at him, and before he could stop himself, a gloved hand reached out and stroked his ear. Din wasn't used to showing affection in front of others, especially people he didn't fully trust. But the atmosphere was so relaxed, and it seems his body reacted before his mind could stop it.

"Did we stop somewhere?" Her quiet voice broke him out of his trance, his head snapped back up to meet hers. She looked worried, her eyes searched the helmet, and her teeth caught her bottom lip. Din told himself he was just observing a possible threat, analyzing her tells.

Subconsciously, that was a different story.

"No," he paused to clear his throat when it came out in a whisper. "I've picked up a job, I'm changing our course, and we'll be there in an hour... I just—" well Din didn't really know why exactly he felt the need to warn her. "I just wanted to know if you had... anything to tell me." Right, just trying to get information. Her eyes seemed to light up in recognition, her brow furrowed in concentration.

"Who- or what is the job exactly." She looked confused still, her eyes zoned in on something in the distance, deep in thought.

"It's with an old... acquaintance of mine." His voice was rougher than he intended, still not really enjoying the idea of the job. But by the way her eyes darkened, he knew it was probably going to be a big mistake.

~o~o~o~

Sedona's mind instantly hooked onto the information and dragged it from the depths of the scramble. This situation, she knew well. This episode, she had watched, many times. For the plot... not for the way the red lights danced off beskar or the amazingly hot fight scenes.

No for the plot.

She knew what she needed to do.

"They betray you, they're going to try and shove you in a cell and leave you there... and a droid tries to shoot the baby— and they're all massive dicks, every one of them." Okay. That sounded crazy, she didn't mean for everything to tumble out like that. According to the way Din suddenly stood straight and alert, she probably didn't say the right things. "Wait... but you get out of it, no one gets hurt— except for the assholes— but they deserved it a-and you get money."

He just stood there, still as a rock. She couldn't imagine how all of that sounded to him. He probably didn't even know what the mission was supposed to be, and she had already informed him it was doomed from the start.

Yeah, I gotta work on the info delivery.

He let out a long sigh. His fingers twitched at his side, he probably would've rubbed his forehead in frustration if he could. She could feel herself shrinking in the silence, she unconsciously held onto the baby in her lap a little tighter. He cooed at her, seemingly sensing her anxiety. His little 3 clawed hands tapped at hers that held his waist.

"Well... like I said, an hour." He then turned and quickly made his way to the ladder. Climbing into the cockpit in almost record time. Sedona let a long sigh escape her, bringing one hand up to rub her eyes. She wasn't tired anymore, anxiety had squandered that quickly.

She had to either, A. Figure out some way to keep Din from being tricked and captured. Or B. Make sure Grogu doesn't alert the droid of his presence. For some reason, the situation felt wrong. She knew this mission was on course to go sour, but there was a bad feeling whispering at the edges of her mind.

Everything was feeling super, extra, bad and it was making her stomach hurt.

Or maybe she was just fucking starving.

Sedona realized she had never eaten the 'bar' Peli had given her. And an all-liquid diet the day before probably wasn't helping her whole, situation. Moving the child from her lap, she placed her feet on the ground. Thankful for her socks as the cold of the metal seeped through the fabric. She walked over to her suitcase— not really remembering where she had put the food— the entire evening leading up to her fight with Toro was a blur. When she didn't find it in her purse, she searched through her suitcase. Her hands touched the foil wrapping, and suddenly there was another presence at her side.

The little green gremlin was a bloodhound for food, it was like he read her mind and teleported to her. Letting out an excited squeal when she brought the bar into view, Sedona couldn't help but laugh with him. Sitting cross-legged in front of her suitcase she invited him to sit with her. And with more adorable grunts and snorts he sat down in between her legs, eyes never leaving the bar.

"Okay we can share, but don't tell your dad" she whispered, he made a soft coo in response. The bar looked like someone had put a granola bar through a grinder, and then reformed it back into a bar. Not exactly the most appetizing thing, but food was food, and the little guy seemed excited. She broke off a small piece— yes she had witnessed the child swallow a frog whole— but he was so little in front of her, so she went by baby rules and gave him something small. He grabbed it in his little hands, and then she broke off a piece for herself.

It was dry, and tasted kind of like a protein bar, but not at all like a protein bar. It was just different, but with the way the child inhaled it, she knew it was probably worth eating. They carried on like this till it was gone, Grogu munching happily, not minding the crumbs that fell into his lap. She was able to choke it down with the assistance of the water bottle that still sat in her purse. But eating didn't seem to help the way her stomach twisted in worry. When she wasn't distracting herself by watching the child, her mind wandered dangerously.

She couldn't tell if the walls her mind had put up the moment she dropped on the Crest were finally crumbling. Or if something was actually wrong. Her head was starting to hurt again, and now with a stomach ache, she felt like she was starting to break down. She needed another distraction.

Crumbling up the wrapper she turned to her suitcase. The child babbled a little, probably wondering if she had more food. Instead, she was just looking for anything; she moved through everything in the bag, toiletries, bras, a journal. And then she felt something solid. Her boots! She had honestly figured she didn't have any shoes here. Those had been the first thing to come out of her suitcase when she got to her hotel. But now, pulling her work boots from the depths, it was the first time she had actually been excited to see them. They were beat up hiking boots, with the perfect amount of ankle support and non-slip bottom to make it in space.

"Well, are you gonna let me put these on or what?" She said to the child in her lap, he tilted his head with a coo. She slowly started to straighten her legs, he made a squeal and then started to wiggle away from her. She laughed, helping him get off her lap and setting him to the side. He grunted, loudly, instantly very mad at her. She chuckled again, trying not to notice the way her hands shook as she began to lace up her boots.

Grogu toddled over to the ladder, reaching his arms up toward the cockpit. She couldn't help the smile, she finished tying her boots, standing, and headed over to the child. He was hanging from the 3rd rung of the ladder, obviously getting his speed from his father, she was able to catch him just as his 3 fingers slid off the metal. She rose and looked up with anticipation, obviously he wanted to go up there, and that meant she would have to... talk to Din.

She swallowed, but the baby in her arms let out an impatient squeal, reaching his arms up. She let out a breath she didn't know she was holding.

"Um... D-Mando" she called, catching herself on the name quickly. "G-The kid wants to come up, i-is it alright if I bring him up." She hated the way she was stumbling through this, it shouldn't be that difficult to ask, but she almost shaking in fear at the prospect of being dropped off on the next planet. Her subconscious was telling her the Din she knew wouldn't do that, but this wasn't the Din she 'knew', this was a stranger. God, why did this have to be so complicated?

There was a long daunting pause. "Just don't touch anything." She let out a sigh of relief, and quickly attempted the climb to the cockpit. Proving to be much trickier with one hand. Her head breached the hole, and in front of her was something amazing. The cockpit of the Razor Crest lit up with the blue streaks of hyperspace. She stopped, awestruck at all of the buttons and levers, all of the details laid out before her. She didn't even notice the child wiggling out of her grasp.

It was beautiful, but also so terrifying. She watched the expanse of space whiz by, something her mind could've never been able to comprehend. And as she stared, she didn't notice when the pilot's chair slowly turned.

"You can come inside." She jumped at his voice, eyes meeting the helmet she didn't know was facing her. She quickly shut her mouth, just now realizing Grogu had made his way to Din's lap. Slowly, she finished the climb up the ladder and found herself at the door to the cockpit. Tentatively she stepped inside, eyes still wide in wonder, and made her way to the chair behind Din's left shoulder. He turned back to the controls, or more back to making sure the child didn't touch anything. She sat down slowly, still not entirely certain this was all real.

Swirling blue was constantly moving above and before her, it was mesmerizing, she felt herself getting lost in it. She could probably look at it for the rest of her life. It was the perfect distraction. Or until someone broke her from her daze, but she didn't expect that to happen anytime soon. Instead, she sat quietly, trying to take up as little space in the room as she could. Her thoughts were pushed to the back of her mind, she was allowed this brief moment of peace.

Sedona had held it together surprisingly well, though it was more likely she was in shock. Numb is what she would call it, seeing everything moving around her, but she didn't really feel it. A mild form of disassociation is probably what a therapist would tell her, her body was in survival mode while her brain just followed, screaming from the shadows. But at this current moment, her mind was quiet, the rolling blue was enough.

Comfortable silence, the baby sleeping, his snores being the only thing breaking through the hum of hyperspace. The pair sat quietly for what seemed to be a long time. It was the first moments of calm both had experienced at the same time, hopefully, it wouldn't be the last. In the past, the silence would have irked her, gnawed at her stomach. She probably would've started a conversation with anyone in the room. But now, it felt okay, her mind felt at ease for the first time since she'd got here. She ignored the voice that whispered, maybe it's him.

A sudden beeping broke through the serene atmosphere, Sedona jumped, while Din only moved his helmet. His hands reached out to flick some switches and punch some buttons.

She secretly wished she might be able to figure out what it all meant, but she wasn't going to get her hopes up.

"We're dropping out of hyperspace, hold on." It was an off-hand comment she realized because she didn't even have time to straighten in her spine when the ship seemed to lurch forward. Her hands flew to her sides, gripping the seat quickly. With the sudden movement, all of her anxieties flew into her throat. And as another giant space ship came into view, another emotion came forward.

Rage.

"Oh, those fuckers." The words were growled out before she even knew her mouth was open. Her eyes widening in surprise as a T-shaped visor snapped to face her. She could only shrug in response, it was the truth. Deep down, she was glad to know her shock-induced state hadn't taken everything from her, she could still talk some smack.

That was going to cause problems.

"You're staying on the ship, with the child." He had turned back to the controls, grasping the handles with gloved hands. The child in question had just woken up, cooing curiously at the scene change. "Make sure he doesn't cause any trouble, or whatever you said happens." She heard him and understood. But she was focused on trying to figure out how the hell she was going to hold her tongue when she knew what was about to happen. Din seemed to notice her unease, his helmet shifted slightly toward her, most likely confused by the white-knuckle grip she still had on the seat.

"You're going to have to gag me." The realization came suddenly, it was the only way, she did not trust herself to keep quiet. Din fully spun to face her now, even without seeing his face she could tell he was surprised and mad. She aimed for his eyes beneath the black visor, "It's the only way to shut me up." He let out a long sigh, that ended more in a frustrated growl.

"Are you serious?" His voice was sharp, serious disbelief. She nodded, it was ridiculous she knew, but with all the choice words swirling in her head, and the way she didn't have full control of herself, it really was the only way. With another growl-sigh he leaned down, ripping off a strip of material from his cape, and handed it to her, then he more or less shoved the child in her lap. "Just go— take him to the sleeping compartment, and... do it yourself."

She stood and left quickly, not wanting to anger him further. She staggered her way down the ladder, Grogu laughing at her struggles. She was panicking, her eyes darted over everything quickly, setting the child in the compartment she went over to her things. She zipped her suitcase closed, then hooked the handle to one of the nets that hung on the wall, hoping that would keep it out of way. Then with her purse, she made her way over to Grogu and climbed in after him. He babbled excitedly, not picking up on the frazzled emotions that were rolling off her in waves.

"We are going to have a totally chill time in here." She said to the child, though it was also mostly to herself. She adjusted till her back was against the wall, and allowed Grogu to clamber onto her lap. "It's gonna be totally cool and nothing bad is going to happen, alright?" Her voice had risen multiple octaves, and it seemed the gremlin had finally caught on to her panic. He tilted his head at her, making a much smaller, almost sadder sound. She instantly felt bad; making shushing noises, she rubbed his little back as he pouted up at her. The ship started to wobble, Din was maneuvering it into the bigger space ship, she held onto the little creature. And with a big thump, they were stopped.

Sedona let out a breath she didn't know she was holding. Grogu's ears seemed to perk up at that, he settled down onto her lap. Listening carefully to the noises above her, she could hear Din moving around before steps began to descend on the ladder. He paused in front of the compartment, carefully observing the situation. Sedona could only stare back, doing her best not to let him know how scared she was, but he probably had a fear sensor on his helmet. Before he could turn away her voice betrayed her again.

"Di-Mando... could I have a weapon." It was a whisper, she was doing the best she could to hold herself together. But this was becoming more and more real by the second. He stared at her for much longer than she wanted, even Grogu made a small whine at the atmosphere. Then his hand moved to his wrist, tapping something, and a compartment opened adjacent to the one she was in. She peaked around the corner, eyes widening at all of the weapons laid out. And she almost laughed at the sight of her pink taser, placed there among all of the space gadgets. He grabbed that, setting it in front of her.

Without a word, he turned, fingers working at his wrist again. Almost simultaneously, the weapons doors and the door to her compartment shut. While the side ship door opened. She and Grogu were alone in the dimly lit compartment. He turned to look at her, head tilting in confusion. And she could only shrug in response.

There was silence on the ship for what felt like hours. Sedona and Grogu sat quietly, only the child breaking the silence with his babbles. She would shush him quickly; not really knowing when the crew would be joining the ship, and she didn't want their cover blown sooner than it needed to be. When his fussing became a bit more persistent, she gave him her keys that were still tucked in her purse. His big eyes widened further, entranced by the shiny metal and jingles.

Because how else do you calm a baby you don't know what to do with, you give it your keys. Fuck.

A heavy sigh passed through her as she leaned her head back against the wall. She's trying desperately to keep her emotions under control, obviously, Grogu could sense them, so if she was calm, he was calm. And that was most important right now. Her mind was constantly on edge, just waiting for something to happen. She didn't want to tie her mouth yet, fearing it would startle the child. Instead, she chewed on her lip, distracted by the soft tinkling of her keys.

The wait was soon over.

Metallic footsteps were making their way up the ramp. Thinking fast she tied the strip of fabric around her mouth, then held the child close. He cooed, moving his head up to face her before his ears flicked up in surprise. She tried to give him a smile.

It definitely looked absolutely horrifying.

His little features contorted into a frown, and a whimper was heard before the footsteps on the ship drew closer. They both snapped their heads to stare at the unmoving compartment door. Ears perked, listening closely as she heard someone ascend to the cockpit. There were noises outside of the ship, people were gathering, she felt her heart rate increase sharply. She squeezed them further into the corner of the compartment. The mattress creaked so loudly in the silence, but thankfully the noises coming from above them seemed to drown it out.

Her brain had ceased its flow of information. She wasn't sure who entered the ship first, it could be Din for all she knew. But she knew there were about to be a lot more people, and then shit was going to go down. Her mouth had gone dry thanks to the fabric, and the child had started to whine. She tried to shush him, but it came out more in weird hissing sounds. His eyes bugged out as he looked at her in fear, pushing his arms against her chest. She moved to set him down behind her, pretending her heart didn't break at the sight. She maneuvered herself more to the front of the compartment, leaving the keys behind for him.

She almost didn't notice the grumbling that followed the metallic clink of someone leaving the ship. The person was complaining, aggressively, but the voice was definitely not human.

Of course. That shitty droid.

The one emotion that had been hardest to keep at bay was rising up again. It coiled in her throat, sharpening her tongue with nasty thoughts. She hated this group, and all the shit they say to Din and the violent betrayal. She didn't know how she was going to be able to handle it if it happens right in front of her— the fabric in her mouth was going to be her saving grace. She really did not want to risk making this even worse for Din than it already would be.

And sure, she knows they get their due karma in the end. But the nagging pit in her stomach, the feeling of wrong, was eating her alive. She reached for the taser that sat at the front of the compartment and maneuvered her back to Grogu. If that compartment opens, she was going to fight like hell.

And that's how she waited.

And waited.

Back turned to the child as he jangled her keys around. She waited as voices crept closer to the Crest. As someone made their way up the ramp, then another. Until something was set down with a heavy thump, and a murmur of voices filled the hull. No one was really saying anything of importance, just fighting about who got to sit where. Sedona turned her head back to the child, who was now also listening attentively. His ears perked, owlish eyes met hers, the keys now forgotten in his little hands. He made a small 'ooo' sound and pointed to the compartment door, and she shrugged, holding her finger up to her mouth in a shushing motion.

Then there was the sound of the hatch closing, her head snapped back to the door. Trying to picture the scene behind the metal. She heard someone climbing the ladder, and then there was more grumbling. It wasn't long after, the ship began to move, she braced her hands behind her back as the compartment rocked. She looked back at the child, who was now back to jangling the keys around, she tried not to cringe at the sound, hoping they couldn't hear it.

She couldn't help thinking how insane this was. She was sitting in a space ship with a little green alien, gagged, and listening to other aliens argue. Her breath had started to quicken, and she could feel her pulse thumping in her neck.

This is so fucked up. What the hell am I even doing here. I'm going crazy-

Her spiraling thoughts were cut off when she felt a small hand on her back. She turned, blinking away a tear that had formed in her eye. Grogu made a tiny coo, his eyes wide. She instantly felt bad, he could sense her distress and it was making him feel bad. But she almost let out a sob when the little creature leaned forward, setting both his arms on her back in a tiny hug. A strangled noise tore through her throat, lifting one of her hands to pat his wrinkled little head. He made a snorting noise, one of the cutest things in the world, before plopping down and playing with the keys again. The interaction so small, but it had immediately calmed her down.

God, I can see why everyone loves this little shit.

She felt the atmosphere speed up, and the telltale feeling of hyperspace overtook the ship. A sound she recognized made her snap her head back to the door. The weapons hold adjacent to the sleeping compartment was open. She hadn't even heard their earlier conversations, too entranced by the little guy. She couldn't remember who had opened the door, but from the grumbling, it sounded like the one she hated most. Everything was happening much faster, but it felt as if time had slowed. She distantly registered the thump of someone jumping down the ladder, then the doors closing, and someone immediately hitting them.

"Hey, hey, hey. Okay. Okay. Okay, I get it. I'm a little particular about my personal space too." That voice, God she knew that voice. Her blood boiled as she listened further. "So let's just do this job. We get in, we get out, and you don't have to see our faces anymore."

How ironic, she almost rolled her eyes.

"Someone tell me why we even need a Mandalorian." The voice was much closer than she wanted it to be.

"Well, apparently they're the greatest warriors in the galaxy." There was a pause, Sedona gritted her teeth around the cloth. "So they say"

"Then why are they all dead"

And there was laughter. She heard a sharp giggle, the kind that makes your lip curl. And she felt herself shaking— she wanted to say something so fucking bad. She didn't know how Din could just take all of this.

"Well, you flew with him, Xi'an— Is he as good as they say?"

"Ask him about the job on Alzoc 111." Their voices grated her ears. Subconsciously she really did want to know what happened on Alzoc 111"

"I did what I had to." But this voice, with his calculated roughness, broke her heart. She didn't know how much more she could take before words started leaving her mouth. She heard a female voice, and her hands curled into fists behind her. She could hear what they were saying, but it wasn't fully registering anymore. Her ears rung with rage, the feeling of the child still leaning against her back was the only thing keeping her from ripping off the gag and screaming.  

Her eyes narrowed at the continued jeering and insults. She tried to blink away the tears of anger that burned her eyes. Pressing all of her weight into her arms, her muscles tense. Ready for what was coming next.

The ringing in her ears didn't stop, even as a fistfight took place outside her door.

Only when she was suddenly faced by the people she did not want to see, did everything come crashing back to the surface.

The trio looked at her in shock, Din out of her view. She sees Mayfield's mouth moving as he walks closer to her, but she only picked up the last of his sentence.

"— you get lonely up here buddy? Huh." He stepped up to the compartment, Xi'an sauntered after him. Sedona tried not to focus on the way the other woman's gaze twisted into disgust. She turned her head to meet all 3 of their eyes, Burg looking even more devil-like up close.

"Why do you have your bed warmer tied up like that huh?" Din didn't answer Mayfield, she couldn't even see him, but with the way Burg had his arm locked out of view, he was probably being held back. "Is that how he kept you, huh, Xi'an? Is that how he likes 'em?" The woman in question hissed in response, and she settled herself against the door. Knife still held loosely in her hand.

"Didn't take you for the type." She snarled at Din, her eyes predatory as they shifted away from Sedona. "Maybe that code of yours has made you soft."

And suddenly there was another voice. Though not really a voice, instead it's sounded like an angry cat in the other room. Muffled, and full of rage.

It wasn't till she noticed the others were just staring at her in silence, that she realized it was her. She was snarling like a rabid dog, her mouth has developed a mind of its own. Thankfully all the words were swallowed by the cloth.

"Well let's see what she has to say," Xi'an said with a sickening smile, sharpened yellow teeth on full display. The next actions happened so quickly, Sedona honestly didn't realize what transpired. There was a flash of metal, as Xi'an's hand darted out like a snake. A searing pain appeared on her left cheek, and the cloth holding her words in fell away. She felt herself gasp, her hand instantly flying up to cradle her cheek. And then there was laughing, the trio laughed at her pain, and it only made her angrier.

"I said," She placed her hand, now sticky with blood, behind her back. Bracing herself. "I've got a penchant for smokes and kicking douches in the mouth. Sadly for you, my last cigarette's gone out."

And with that statement, her right foot flew out. Connecting with Burg's jaw, a sickening crack rang through the hull.

Then there was chaos.

The Devaronian stumbled back, his own hand coming up to clutch his jaw with a growl. Mayfield and Xi'an jumped for their weapons. But before anyone else could cross the threshold of the sleeping compartment, there was a blaster shot— and the metal door collapsed shut. Din had shot the control panel to the door, no one could get in, or get out without the use of his fancy wrist control. There was aggressive banging on the door, Sedona feared it might dent. She could hear swearing and shouting from the other side, but she wasn't done. She sat up on her knees, slamming her hands against the metal a few times. If Din wasn't going to say it, she would.

"Fuck you Xi'an! I wanted to be your friend so bad!" She could hear an aggressive snarl over the other commotion. Burg roared, and then there was a particularly loud thump against the door.

"Fuck you, Burg! Your breath fucking reeks!" Her voice had a heavy growl in it, all of the rage she could muster put behind her words.

"And fuck you, Mayfield! Prison is going to make you it's bitch!" Her voice had risen to a scream to counteract the noise. And with a few more slaps against the metal, she sat back down. Her hand coming up to the cut on her cheek. Xi'an's blades were so sharp, they cut deep and thin. A perfect slice, that was going to leave a nasty scar. It was then she realized the other creature in the room.

Grogu let out soft whimpers at the commotion, he was trying to hide behind her purse. Her stomach dropped at the sight, instantly letting out a soft coo of her own, she reached her hand out to him, trying to let him know it would be okay. But another voice broke through the pandemonium.

"Dropping out of hyperspace now." She scooped up Grogu, and he let out a small cry of protest. But she knew what was coming next. The ship lurched foreword suddenly. "Commencing final approach now."

"Cloaking signal now" Grogu let out a scream as they were suddenly airborne. Sedona's head crashed against the ceiling of the compartment with a thump. They slammed back down, the wind getting knocked out of her lungs. Trying to catch her breath she glanced down at the child, who was relatively fine. Just panicking by the way his massive eyes stared up at her. The ship stopped with a heavy crash, and she heard the droid speaking again. But she was far more distracted by the little green hand straining to reach her cheek.

"I'll be okay buddy" she whispered, bringing her hand up to gently grab his. He frowned, babbling urgently at her. She gave him as much of a smile she could muster, hoping he accepted it. "You don't have to heal me, I'm all right." Truthfully, she wasn't really all right. Her cheek was burning, and from what she could feel, the cut ran from just under her jaw bone, all the way up to her cheekbone. A neat slice, that was still steadily leaking blood. She set Grogu to the side and reached for her purse, fishing out the travel pack of tissues, and holding one to the cut. It wasn't stitches or magical healing space goo, but she hoped it would at least stop her from bleeding all over Din's bed. A loud smack interrupted their tentative peace. Mayfield's voice followed.

"Don't think we forgot about you girl, we'll be back for you!" There was laughing, and for the first time since the door had opened, the wrongness flooded back to her stomach. She focused on taking deep even breaths, for the sake of the child who whimpered beside her. She heard a fast beeping, and then someone jumping from the ship. They were leaving, and her heart only seemed to race faster. She waited till she heard the particularly loud thump of Burg.

"Din," she cleared her throat, voice coming out raw. "Don't let them capture you." She wasn't sure if she was just talking to an empty hull, or if the Mandalorian could even hear her raspy voice. 

She just hoped desperately if he had, he would listen.

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