#jensen x oc au
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zepskies ยท 2 months ago
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This One's For You
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Pairing: Soldier Boy (Ben) x F. Reader || Ben & daughter!OC (Lila)
Summary: Late one night, finding no other recourse, Ben sings to his infant daughter to help her sleep.
AN: Thanks to this request, this oneโ€™s set between Until Morning and Green in the BMD-verse.
Word Count: 1.2K
Song Inspo: "Hey There Delilah" by Plain White T's
Tags/Warnings: Grumpy Ben, established relationship, potential fluff overload.~
๐Ÿ’š Break Me Down Masterlist
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โ€œYour daughterโ€™s awake,โ€ Ben grumbled into his pillow.
He didnโ€™t need to have sensitive hearing to pick up on the infantโ€™s whining in her crib.
โ€œSheโ€™s only my daughter when she has a rough night.โ€ You sighed and turned away from him on your side of the bed. You clutched at your pillow. โ€œItโ€™s your turn, pal.โ€
His eyes cracked open. He gave you a look of annoyance behind your back.
โ€œI have to get up in three hours for work,โ€ he said.
You didnโ€™t seem to care. You were so tired, he already heard your deeper breaths in sleep. In fairness, you essentially hadnโ€™t slept for three days now. Your daughter was a demanding little thing, with some powerful goddamn lungs.
When another insistent whine and a hiccupping cry reached his ears, Ben released a sound of frustration. He knew he wouldnโ€™t be able to fall asleep until the house was silent again, so after another beat, he finally peeled back the covers. Sliding out of bed, he padded out on bare feet down the hall to the nursery, wearing his usual pair of sweatpants.
He peered over the side of the crib and found Lila blinking up at him. Her tears clung to her lashes as she wriggled around in upset.
โ€œWhatโ€™s the matter now?โ€ he asked, as if the baby could answer him.
He reached in with careful hands and picked her up, resting her on his chest. She sniffed and predictably latched onto his hair as she cried.
He checked her in various ways, but she didnโ€™t smell like a full diaper (upon which, he would've handed her over to you). She seemed fine, which meant she was being finicky just for the hell of it.
โ€œYouโ€™re okay, sweetheart. Come on,โ€ he said as he paced the room with her. โ€œQuiet the fuck down already.โ€
Still, she wouldnโ€™t stop crying. The whimpers were pitiful, but at least they werenโ€™t ear-splitting wails this time. He just really needed her to stop so he could sleep, expeditiously.
After several minutes with no improvement, however, Ben sighed and dropped down into the rocking chair. He was coming to the end of his tether.
โ€œAll right, whatโ€™s it gonna take for you to relax?โ€ he muttered. At this point, he wasnโ€™t above bribery. Candy? Money? A new fucking car? Hell, heโ€™d get her a fleet of Ferraris if itโ€™d make her pipe down.
He held Lila in the crook of his arm and tried rocking back and forth in the chair. When that didnโ€™t work, he tried humming a tuneโ€”something heโ€™d heard on the radio that now wouldnโ€™t get out of his damn head. The only reason he remembered it was because of his daughterโ€™s name.
โ€œOh, itโ€™s what you do to me, oh, itโ€™s what you do to me,โ€ he sang softly, deep and baritone, and a little coarse from sleep. (And possibly a little off-key.)
Lila seemed to ease up a little in response to his voice, blinking up at him with those pretty green eyes. Maybe that was the solution.
He cleared his throat in slight embarrassment. He looked in the doorway to make sure he was alone before he kept going with this. ย 
Okay, whatโ€™re the words to the goddamn songโ€ฆ
โ€œH-Hey there, Delilah, whatโ€™s it like in New York City?โ€ he started, a bit unsure. The baby blinked up at him, holding a little fist in her mouth. Tears continued to stream down her cheeks while she whimpered, but she looked like she was listening, at least.ย 
โ€œI'm a thousand miles away, but girl, tonight you look so pretty,โ€ Ben continued. He couldnโ€™t help softening a bit, looking down on her. He swept a tear from her cheek with his thumb.
โ€œYes, you do. Time Square canโ€™t shine as bright as youโ€ฆI swear itโ€™s true.โ€
Tomorrow he was scheduled for another mission out of New York, with Butcher and the rest of the team. Ben didnโ€™t know how long heโ€™d be gone.
โ€œHey there, Delilah, don't you worry about the distance,โ€ he sang, โ€œI'm right there if you get lonely. Give this song another listenโ€ฆโ€
He wouldnโ€™t admit it, but it was hard to leave you and Lila. She was still so small, and he didnโ€™t like the thought of you two being alone, even if Frank was watching out for you.
But Ben had a job to do.
โ€œClose your eyes,โ€ he almost whispered. โ€œListen to my voice, itโ€™s my disguise. Iโ€™m by your sideโ€ฆโ€
Lila had begun to settle down. He dried her tears as he continued to rock her, continued to hum the melody of the chorus. He couldnโ€™t remember most of the song after that, but there were a few more lines he did have rolling around in his head.
โ€œHey there, Delilah, hereโ€™s to you,โ€ he sang quietly. โ€œThis oneโ€™s for youโ€ฆโ€
ย Just then, Ben thought he saw movement out of the corner of his eye. He glanced up and found you there, leaning in the doorway. You were holding up your cell phone.
His brows knitted together in a glare.
โ€œWhat the fuckโ€™re you doing?โ€ he said, sharp and incredulous.
โ€œShhh,โ€ you reminded him, pointing at the baby. He saw your smirk below the frame of the phone.
Ben looked down and found that Lila was finally asleep. Gritting his teeth, he got up slowly. You were filming him all the while, even with your hair wild in bedhead and your pajama top hanging off your shoulder. Apparently, embarrassing him was more important than sleep.
Ben gently set her back down in the crib. Once he made sure she was safe and settled in sleep, he turned and saw that you were still filming him. He hoped you captured the deathly look of warning on his face.
You bit your lip. Without either of you saying anything, you darted off down the hall. Ben stalked after you.
โ€œWoman, you better get the fuck back here!โ€ he hissed in a coarse whisper. You struggled to contain your laughter.
โ€œYouโ€™ll have to catch me first, old man,โ€ you teased.
He chased you around the houseโ€”almost knocking over a lamp in the processโ€”until he got ahold of you, and more importantly your phone. He grabbed it out of your hand and held you flush against him with an ironclad arm around your waist.
Ben looked down at you both in satisfaction, and a warning not to try anything else. You laughed and took his bearded face in your hands. You pulled him down to you for a placating kiss.
"You do have a nice voice," you whispered near his lips.
"Shut it. You're on thin fucking ice with me," he groused, with a shake of his head when it only reignited your inane giggling.
His lips reluctantly tugging at a smile, he silenced you with a deeper kiss.
The joke was on him though. While you were running around, you already managed to drop that video into the group chat with Hughie, Annie, and all the rest of your friends at Supe Affairs.
Come the morning, Ben was about to have a very interesting day at the office.ย 
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AN: ๐Ÿ˜‚ Did you enjoy another dose of dad!Ben in the BMD-verse? ๐Ÿ’š
Keep Reading in the BMD-verse:
Coming up next, Ben gets his revenge in Lesson Learned:
Summary:ย Thereโ€™s only so much teasing Ben is willing to take. He has no choice but to punish you.
โ–ถ๏ธ Keep Reading: Lesson Learned
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Ko-Fi Me โ˜•
Break Me Down Masterlist
Soldier Boy Masterlist
Main Masterlist
Series Tag List (Part 1):
@deans-spinster-witch @this-is-me19 @waynes-multiverse @samanddeaninatrenchcoat @spalady26
@spnwoman @syrma-sensei @wirdbeimaufhebengebunden @muhahaha303 @123passwort
@mrsjenniferwinchester @lyarr24 @xoxovienna @lollag0w0 @globetrotter28
@nancymcl @ashbatz @rizlowwritessortof @kristophalis @wonderland2022
@emily-winchester @shelh93 @sl33pylilbunny @spoonmynoodle @chernayawidow
@buckybarnes-1917 @asgardprincess97 @sometimes-i-sing @itsyellow @theonlymaninthesky
@kimberleymjw @is-this-a-febreze-commercial @iamsapphine @sanscas @se-fucking-hun
@lassie-bird @jessjad @yepimthatperson @fromcaintodean @stoneyggirl
@spnfamily-j2 @im-a-slut-for-fluff @lacilou @venicesem @mimaria420
@tearsfortheyouth @agalliasi @chriszgirl92 @kazsrm67 @deansbbyx
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babyjakes ยท 10 months ago
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ใ€ˆ disclaimer: this blog posts content not suitable for individuals under the age of 18. minors are strictly prohibited from viewing, sharing, or interacting with this blog. for more information on this blog's commitment to protecting minors, read our full statement here. ใ€‰
nav | masterlist | rules | library
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summary | loving husbands jake and ari had always believed they were all each other could ever want or need. but one unusual summer, when their world is turned upside-down by an uncanny girl from down the street, they find that having someone to love, nurture, and care for together is the missing piece that finally completes their perfect family and lives.
characters | caretaker!jake jensen, daddy!ari levinson, wrenley beauchamp (original character)
warnings | mentions/depictions of domestic and sexual violence, mental health themes: anxiety/panic disorders, trauma and post-traumatic-stress, eating disorders (restrictive subtype), therapeutic methods and tools: exposure, age regression. specific warnings included in each chapter
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series sections | this series includes two sections. the main series, composed of full-length chapters, will tell the charactersโ€™ story of meeting, bonding, facing adversity and challenges, and becoming a family in chronological order, as a traditional chapter book would. egem: little life will be a collection of one shots, blurbs, and headcanons capturing various events and moments throughout the charactersโ€™ lives together. please feel free to read these sections in whatever order youโ€™d like; itโ€™s recommended to read at least some of the main series first to grow familiar with the characters, setting, context, etc.
sexual content | egem: little life will include a section of works that explore wren healing her sexual trauma through safe sexual relations with jake and ari. these sexual themes will be limited to safe/consensual sex only (no dark elements, non/dubcon, etc.โ€” though these will appear in the main series as a part of wrenโ€™s traumatic experiences, with plenty of trigger warnings included.) works including sexual relations between wren, jake, and ari will be listed in their own section of the masterlist, and all clearly marked as nsfw. please feel free to skip these pieces entirely. they will not impact the overall storyline; therefore, one can read everything else and experience wrenโ€™s relationship with jake and ari as completely sfw if they wish.
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main series chapters.
1. prologue | 2. the little garden fairy | 3. baby steps | 4. difficult introductions
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headcanons.
wren's pink bathroom
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violentdelightsproductions ยท 12 days ago
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Amanda Harper (ft Soldier Boy) - Suspirium
Vought+ Presents Amanda Harper in Susspiria. A woman plagued by horrifying visions travels to West Berlin and joins a dance Academy hoping she will find the answers she is looking for. There she meets a US soldier on duty and she feels instantly connected to him. Soon the secrets she keeps and the secrets that are hiding withing the walls of the Academy begin to unravel leading to an explosive finale. With Soldier Boy.
"[โ€ฆ] predating all Christian invention. Pre-God, pre-devil. Mother Tenebrarum, Mother Lachrymarum and Mother Suspiriorum. Darkness, tears, and sighs."
Suspiria is a horror story story about witches and dark magic. It's also a story about the horror of the past that persist as hauntings and monsters in the basement. It can also be seen as a story about madness as a symptom of being a woman. As it's often the case in the horror genre, madness magic and womanhood are linked together. โ€œWhen women tell you the truth, you don't pity them. You tell them they have delusions!"
"Love and manipulation, they share houses very often. They are frequent bedfellows."
Find our new Halloween videos and edits here! Our Halloween edits throughout the years!
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queenofallerdalehall ยท 7 days ago
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@normalpeoplescaremeh @violentdelightsproductions @ddriverpicksthemusic @langmery @ineed-a-cigarette @girlshunttoo there's only 365.... 364 days until next Halloween!!!! And for the first time ever we had a draft AND storyboards for next Halloween BEFORE Halloween passed. The hope Samhain is very pleased with us ๐ŸŽƒ๐ŸŽƒ๐ŸŽƒ๐ŸŽƒ
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So it's the day after Halloween (and inside I am still sleeping inside) I have to say that despite all the bumbs along the way, this year we made art.
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And what I love the most about this time of the year is that it brings back some old friends and usually.... Some new ones along for the ride.
So big thank you to everyone that supported us and our work. We sincerely can't wait to do this again next Halloween ๐Ÿ‘ป๐ŸŽƒ
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code1r15 ยท 11 months ago
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Those remnant faces, fleeting traces of you...
Paul looks a lot like Adam and Iris will suffer for it a whooole lot
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impala-dreamer ยท 17 days ago
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Turn down the lights and indulge in some sexy, angsty horror...
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Escape
~Y/N and Dean are abducted after a night at the bar and thrown into a maze of horrors. Can Sam track down his brother and girlfriend in time? Can they even hold on that long?~
Dean Winchester, Y/N, Sam Winchester, OCs
Series Warnings: Angst. Show level violence. Graphic gore and blood. Extreme situations that may cause anxiety and fear. Character injury and trauma.
13 Chapters
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Good Vibrations
Y/N has wished for Dean Winchester to turn his eye her way since the moment they met, silently pining for him and loving him from deep within the friend zone. When Dean suddenly returns her affection, Y/N is in Seventh Heaven, but nothing gold can stay, and she soon finds out that things arenโ€™t always what they seem and that some wishes are better left unfulfilled.
Dean x Reader, Sam, OFC
Warnings: NSFW. Angst. Smut. Rough, violent, possibly triggering situations. (All chapters will be tagged with their own warnings)
14 Chapters
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Conditioned
~Dean always feared the Apple Pie Life, but with Y/N he felt secure enough to try. He should have known better.~
Dean x Reader, Sam, Castiel, Jack, OMCs
Series Warning: Extreme Angst. Violent Situations. Kidnapping. Murder. Torture. Blood. Fighting. Also Fluff and some Smut. Very NSFW. Each chapter will be warned individually and appropriately.ย 
19 Chapters
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Muddy Soulย 
~ Life isnโ€™t always as it seems and people arenโ€™t who they say they are. Love isnโ€™t always a good thing, and sometimes, finding out the hard way may just kill you. ~
Dean x Reader, Sam x Reader, OMC x Reader, Castiel, Rowena
Series Blanket Warnings: Extreme Angst. DubCon. NonCon. Extreme Physical and Mental Abuse. Show Level Angst and Beyond. Magic. Manipulative and Abusive Relationships. Sexual Situations. Mental Manipulation. Mind Control. Panic Attacks. Severe PTSD. Murder. Some romance, comfort.ย 
30 Chapters
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The Nightmare Curse
~Hit by a devastating curse, Y/N is forced to live out her darkest nightmares on a loop. Can Dean and Sam wake her before thereโ€™s nothing left to wake? ~
Featuring Dean Winchester x Reader, Sam Winchester, Castiel โ€“ And Many Others Spanning the 15 Seasons of Supernatural
Series Warnings Include But Are Not Limited To: Rated R. NSFW. Sexual Activities. Non-Consensual Sexual Acts, Acts of Dubious Consent. Murder. Suicide. Main Character Death. Physical Abuse. Mental Abuse. Dismemberment. Exsanguination. Disembowelment. Cannibalism. Extreme Angst and Horror Well Beyond Scope of Original Show. Proceed with caution.ย 
13 Chapters
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The Fragile Heart
~ After returning home from filming a movie in Europe, Jensen fights to control himself and Y/N keep safe. Unfortunately, lust is hard to fight and hunger even more soโ€ฆ~ย 
Jensen Ackles x F!Reader
NSFW, Vampire!AU, Relationship Angst, Mentions of Past Infidelity, Smut, Blood, Dark Romance, Death
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Blind Faith
~What if the cure was never really a cure? What if the curse was too strong and her love was too weak?~ Demon!Dean x Reader, Sam Winchester.ย  9,760 Words
NSFW, Dark Fic, DbCn, NCn, Extreme Violence, Blood, Extreme Angst, Major Character Death.
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The Beat Of Your Heart
~ Friends become lovers who turn into the darkest evil that one can endureโ€ฆ ~
Dean Winchester x F!Reader; Michael!Dean x F!Reader
8,587 Words
NSFW, Fluff, Cute Banter, Friends To Lovers, There Was Only One Bed!?, All the Sex, Passionate Love, Hope, *record scratch*, Extreme Angst, Violence, NonCon, Torture, Blood, Major Character Death
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His Return
~Walking alone at night can be deadly.~
Vampire!Dean Winchester x Reader
1,780 Words
Warnings: NSFW, Major Character Death, Vampirism.ย 
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Taking Over Me
~Deanโ€™s guilty pleasure comes to life and Y/N gets tangled in the mixโ€ฆ~
Dean Winchester x F!Readerย 
3800 Words
Warnings: NSFW. Monster Fucking. Tentacles. All The Way Through Tentacles. Cum. Poison. Possession. Allll the fucked up things.
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writerscafehub ยท 4 months ago
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๐–๐‘๐ˆ๐“๐„๐‘โœ๐’ ๐‚๐€๐…๐„ ๐Œ๐€๐˜ ๐Œ๐€๐’๐“๐„๐‘๐‹๐ˆ๐’๐“
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/) /)
( โ€ข เผโ€ข)
c /ใฅ ใฅ ๐‡๐„๐‘๐„ ๐€๐‘๐„ all the works made by the very talented members of the writer's cafรฉ server in the month of MAY. we ask, and highly encourage, that you reblog them in support. โ™ก
ALL WORKS ARE FOR THOSE 18+ ONLY.
๐–ฅ” indicates smut
โœถ indicates dark elements
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By โ˜๏ธŽโ˜ฝ Cocoa โ˜๏ธŽโ˜ฝ @cocoamoonmalfoy @darksideofthecocoamoon
๐‹๐ˆ๐•๐ˆ๐๐† ๐Ž๐ ๐€ ๐…๐€๐”๐‹๐“ ๐‹๐ˆ๐๐„ | Lifeโ€™s Perfect Ache!Paul Atreides x Pharao Hekau
I guess thereโ€™s nothing more romantic than dying with your friends
๐‰๐€๐‚๐Š-๐Žโ€™-๐‹๐€๐๐“๐„๐‘๐๐’ ๐ˆ๐ ๐‰๐”๐‹๐˜ย 
Writing Challenge
๐“๐€๐‹๐Š๐ˆ๐๐† ๐–๐ˆ๐“๐‡๐Ž๐”๐“ ๐’๐๐„๐€๐Š๐ˆ๐๐† | biker!Loki Laufeyson x black!Reader. Single parents AU
the past shows up on your doorstep. So much has changed, but some things are painfully the sameโ€ฆ
๐…๐‹๐”๐“๐“๐„๐‘ | Tsuโ€™tey x black!fem!reader
Established relationship flash fiction
โœถ ๐‚๐‹๐Ž๐’๐„ | soft!dark!Eivor Varinsdรณttir x black!reader
Soft!dark cuddling
๐Œ๐Ž๐๐’๐“๐„๐‘, ๐ˆ๐ ๐˜๐Ž๐”๐‘ ๐๐‹๐Ž๐Ž๐ƒ, ๐Ž๐ ๐€ ๐‚๐Ž๐‹๐ƒ ๐๐ˆ๐†๐‡๐“ย  | Vampire!Timothรฉe Chalamet x werewolf!black!reader
How could you let them do this to you? How could you let them turn you into a monster? I guess you never learn 'til you live and you lost it. Live and you lost it
๐’๐‡๐ˆ๐ ๐ˆ๐ ๐€ ๐๐Ž๐“๐“๐‹๐„ | Paul Atriedes x privateer!black!reader
Everything you have earned is a ship. With blue waves crashing into it. But nothing can touch your happy thoughts anymore. With your glass ceiling, walls, and floor
By โ˜… Jen โ˜… @jen-with-a-pen
๐Œ๐„๐„๐“ ๐“๐‡๐„ ๐๐€๐‘๐ˆ๐’๐“๐€
By โฅ Courtney โฅ @chasingmidnights
๐“๐‡๐„ ๐๐€๐’๐“ ๐๐„๐•๐„๐‘ ๐ƒ๐ˆ๐„๐’: ๐€ ๐๐‘๐”๐“๐€๐‹ ๐‹๐ˆ๐…๐„ - ๐๐€๐‘๐“ ๐…๐Ž๐”๐‘ | Charles Blackwood x female!reader
A brief look at the past.ย 
By โš”๏ธŽ Suz โš”๏ธŽ @targaryenvampireslayer
๐–ฅ”๐‹๐„๐“ ๐Œ๐„ ๐“๐„๐Œ๐๐“ ๐˜๐Ž๐” | DILF!Bucky Barnes x Female Reader
You think about quitting your part time job as a babysitter for the older and gorgeous Bucky Barnes, but he convinces you to stay.
By โœต Selene โœต @fluffyprettykitty
๐Œ๐„๐„๐“ ๐“๐‡๐„ ๐๐€๐‘๐ˆ๐’๐“๐€
By โ˜† Stella โ˜† @a-lumos-in-the-nox
๐Œ๐€๐ƒ๐„๐‹๐„๐ˆ๐๐„โ€™๐’ ๐–๐„๐ƒ๐ƒ๐ˆ๐๐† | Neville Longbottom x black!female OC
its cousin Maddy's wedding day & Neville is a wreck
๐Œ๐˜ ๐…๐€๐Œ๐ˆ๐‹๐˜ ๐“๐‘๐„๐„ | Neville Longbottom x black!female OC
Charlotteโ€™s Family Tree
๐Œ๐€๐‘๐‚๐„๐‹โ€™๐’ ๐‘๐Ž๐€๐’๐“ | Neville Longbottom x black!female OC
A blurb about the roast at Marcel's wedding, Ruby and Margo dont hold back lol
๐‡๐„๐€๐‹๐ˆ๐๐† | Neville Longbottom x black!female OC
Ruby and Neville visit his parents at St. Mungos
By โ˜„๏ธŽ Ellie โ˜„๏ธŽ @mrsmischief209
๐“๐‡๐„ ๐–๐ˆ๐๐ƒ ๐“๐‡๐€๐“ ๐‚๐Ž๐๐๐„๐‚๐“๐’ | Vampire Bucky X Witch fem Reader.
Sequel to When the Leaves Fall
๐”๐๐…๐Ž๐‚๐”๐’๐„๐ƒ | Alpha!Steve Rogers x omega!fem reader
Angst and activism in an Omegaverse/Soulmate AU
By โœฏ Vic โœฏ @sunflowersteves
๐Œ๐„๐„๐“ ๐“๐‡๐„ ๐๐€๐‘๐ˆ๐’๐“๐€
By โŽˆ Navy โŽˆ @navybrat817
๐‰๐€๐–๐๐‘๐„๐€๐Š๐„๐‘ | Bucky Barnes x Female Readerย 
Bucky put a mouthy rookie in his place.
โœถ๐‡๐Ž๐‹๐ƒ ๐˜๐Ž๐” ๐“๐ˆ๐†๐‡๐“: ๐๐€๐‘๐“ ๐Ž๐๐„ | Club Owner!Bucky Barnes x Female Reader
Fic Summary: The owner of The 107th wants you to be his girl whether you like it or not.
Chapter Summary: You encounter an unexpected visitor in your home.
By ๐€” Alex ๐€” @thecutestlittlebunbunfairy
๐Œ๐„๐„๐“ ๐“๐‡๐„ ๐๐€๐‘๐ˆ๐’๐“๐€
By โœฌ Astro โœฌ @eulalielatibule
๐‡๐Ž๐“-๐“๐Ž-๐†๐Ž | Pairing: Cheerleader!Jake Jensen x Cheerleader!Reader x Quarterback!Ari Levinson
Summary: You and your boyfriend, Jake Jensen, want to hook up with your rival team's Quarterback, Ari Levinson.
๐Œ๐„๐„๐“ ๐“๐‡๐„ ๐๐€๐‘๐ˆ๐’๐“๐€
By ๐–ค“Liz๐–ค“ @avengers-resident-idiot
๐Œ๐„๐„๐“ ๐“๐‡๐„ ๐๐€๐‘๐ˆ๐’๐“๐€
By โœงBellaโœง @madwomansapologist
๐‹๐ˆ๐†๐‡๐“ ๐‹๐ˆ๐Š๐„ ๐€ ๐…๐„๐€๐“๐‡๐„๐‘ | marcille donato x falin touden
Marcille being hungry for knowledge isn't a novelty. Unless the subject is chickens.
By โšก๏ธŽVivaโšก๏ธŽ @xoxovivafics
๐–ฅ”๐๐Ž๐‚๐“๐”๐‘๐๐€๐‹ ๐ˆ๐๐“๐„๐‘๐‹๐”๐ƒ๐„๐’: ๐๐€๐‘๐“ ๐Ž๐๐„ | Astarion Ancunin x Loki Odinson
Loki visits a strange new realm and meets an intriguing stranger.
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ยฉ all works belong to the respective writers of the writers cafรฉ server.
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mysticstarlightduck ยท 2 months ago
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Extra 2.0 OC Favorites!
Let's go with Erin Niemand and Indigo "Indie" Lauriel, from What Lurks In The Hollow!
Erin Niemand
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Color: Forest Green
Season: Winter
Shoe Choice: Knee-high suede boots
Weapon: Box cutter
Food: Potato and sausage chowder
Drink: Blackberry juice
Style: Dark grey band T-shirts, green flannel long-sleeved shirts (button up), black denim pants
Mode of Transportation: Walking
Animal: Dogs, especially pit bulls (she has one named Cooper)
Pastime: Walking around on the wood trails around Vinethorn Grove and hiking
Breakfast: Sugar-coated cinnamon rolls with latte
Personality: Loner, very introverted.
Songs:
Mockingbird - Enisa
Forgotten - Avril Lavigne
Who's Afraid Of Little Old Me - Taylor Swift
Leave Me Alone - Adam Jensen
City Grown Willow - Jensen Ackles
Indigo "Indie" Lauriel
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Color: Mustard Yellow
Seasons: All of Them!!!!
Shoe Choice: Boho leather slippers/sandals with stripped knee high socks, especially in earthy tones
Weapon: Custom taser that she DIY-customized with dollar store rhinestones and glitter
Food: Her Ma's Lasagna
Drink: Detox Smoothies
Style: Hipster chic styles, usually in fall tones, with her signature denim jumper, which she also customized with cloth patches and always a cardigan
Mode of Transportation: Vintage Scooter
Animal: PIGEONS AND SPARROWS
Hobby: Watching conspiracy theory Youtube, reading about niche topics and doing her own conspiracy theory research, especially about UFOs, ghosts/hauntings and cryptids.
Breakfast: Chocolate Cereal with Milk
Personality: Layback Extrovert
Songs:
Little Talks - Of Monsters & Men
Seven Devils - Florence & The Machine
Riptide -Vance Joy
Ho Hey - The Lumineer
X Games - Au/Ra
Tagging (gently): @sleepy-night-child, @kaylinalexanderbooks, @smol-feralgremlin, @wyked-ao3, @topazadine @littleladymab,
@winterandwords, @eccaiia, @sarahlizziewrites, @illarian-rambling
@agirlandherquill, @anoelleart, @ray-writes-n-shit
@writernopal, @anyablackwood, @unstablewifiaccess, @forthesanityofstorytellers
@i-can-even-burn-salad, @cakeinthevoid @thecomfywriter
@thepeculiarbird, @clairelsonao3, @memento-morri-writes, @starlit-hopes-and-dreams @amaiguri
@cherrychiplip @thecomfywriter @thelovelymachinery
@differentnighttale, @leahnardo-da-veggie
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queenofallerdalehall ยท 1 year ago
Video
@mvdeanw trying to get back to the saddle
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If youโ€™re gonna treat me right Iโ€™ll take you to heaven every night But God forbid you leave me by myself Iโ€™ll take you to hell, take you to hellโ€ฆ
Our new Dean x Ellie (FC: Deborah Ann Woll) Ellie was created by @girlshunttoo
Video by us! โ™ฅ
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jerzwriter ยท 7 months ago
Note
Besides their parents, which adults are the children of your pairings closest to?
Hey Nonny! Thanks for the ask and (this is a repeat tonight!) I'm so sorry I took so long to answer!
In Tobias x Casey's world, their three girls have different people they're closest to. Their eldest, Samantha, is very, very close with her grandmother, Vivian Carrick. She is like little Vivian, and Tobias often jokes that the only reason Vivian loves Casey so much is because she delivered Vivian's mini-me. She is close with Casey's mom, Rose, as well, but nothing like Vivian. Brooke is the sweet child who wants to like and be liked by most people. As a result, she has several go-to adults, including all of her grandparents, Tobias's brother, her Uncle Jordan, Uncle Ethan, and his wife-to-be, Aunt Eva (OC), and her Aunt Sienna are the ones she is closest to. Kayla always had a very different personality from the other children, and while she is loving and gets along pretty well with most, she never seemed exceptionally close to anyone (later on, they find out she is on the autistic spectrum, and that's part of the reason why.) However, @mydemonsdrivealimo's Jensen Valentine and Bryce are good friends of Tobias and Casey in this world, and Jensen and Kayla had a special bond right from the start. Everyone found it odd because Jensen loved the girls, but kids aren't really his thing, but Kayla was like his emotional support baby, he'd always have her on his hip, and she'd just be there all chill. That continues through life. When Kayla is older, she comes out as demiro/demisexual, and she bonds with Bryce a lot during that period since he is a huge support to her.
Now - I also have the MOC World (Merida, Olivia, Casey) with @lilyoffandoms and @storyofmychoices. In this world, I see Samantha being very close with Ethan and Merida. Samantha is a very serious, practical child, and Ethan finds that very endearing. Like, the fact that she sees educational gifts and trips to museums as the ultimate gifts? That makes her a-ok in his book. I think he turns her into an opera fan. Brooke would be very close with Olivia and Bryce. And Kayla would be closest with Merida. In all reality, all of the girls see Merida and Olivia as their second moms, it's a beautiful thing! <3
Ethan/Kaycee: They have one daughter, Emma, and I think she's extremely close to all four of her grandparents... Alan, Naveen, Rose & David. She'd also be very close with her mom's BFF, Sienna.
Trystan/Carolina do not have children (though I do think there will be children in their lives), and while I envision children for Eli/Zoe, as well as in my Eli/Troy/Zoe AU, I have not put as much thought into this yet! :)
Thanks for the ask, and your patience, Nonny!
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zepskies ยท 7 months ago
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Calculated Risks
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Pairing: Soldier Boy/Ben x F. Reader
Summary: You and Ben argue about your commitment to being a working mom. When a rogue supe gets loose at Supe Affairs, mayhem ensues, putting not only your life at risk, but your daughterโ€™s as well.
AN: Welcome back to the BMD-verse, friends! Did you miss these two as much as I did? Plus, get ready for a heavy dose of fan-favorite Frank. (And Lila, of course!)
Word Count: 7K
Tags/Warnings: Familiar bickering, a mission gone awry, angst, hurt/comfort, fluff.
Catch up on the BMD-verse. โคต๏ธ
๐Ÿ’š Break Me Down Masterlist
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In four years of marriage, one thing that had never changed between you and Ben was this.
โ€œAll right, youโ€™re being a little too much right now,โ€ you said in irritation. โ€œOf course Iโ€™m not sitting this one out. Iโ€™m the one who found us the damn lead in the first place.โ€
The man was following you from the adjoining bathroom and back into your shared bedroom, where you began getting dressed for work in the blouse and pencil skirt youโ€™d laid out for yourself.
Your husband had already donned his supe suit, sans helmet. He stood just behind you with his arms crossed, a familiar surly frown on his face. When you turned around, he hadnโ€™t moved an inch.
โ€œIโ€™m being too much? Youโ€™re the one whoโ€™s not being fucking reasonable,โ€ he said.
You rolled your eyes and moved past him to find your shoes. For this skirt, you really needed heels. Your most comfortable black pumps would do. You grabbed the closet doorknob for balance as you slipped them on, giving him a look of exasperation.
Ben held firm on his stance, but inside, he had a feeling youโ€™d chosen this outfit on purpose. You knew he liked this whole sexcretary look on you, with your hair let down around your shoulders. The skirt and heels just brought his eyes to the delectable curve of your ass.
But again, he was holding firm.
Heโ€™d been called in on this case partly because Annie was on maternity leave. She was due in just a few weeks. Which meant โ€œSoldier Boyโ€ was definitely needed to help out Butcher and his merry band of assholes. By now, Ben had gotten used to them.ย ย 
โ€œLook,โ€ you said, โ€œSlingshot has been causing a lot of havoc, and the police havenโ€™t been able to catch him. You heard Grace. This is an โ€˜all hands on deckโ€™ situation.โ€
โ€œShe always says that shit. Doesnโ€™t make it true,โ€ Ben retorted.
โ€œThis time it is,โ€ you said. โ€œIโ€™ve already put in tons of man hours on surveillance for this guy. I want to get him off the street.โ€
Ben held you by your arms. โ€œThatโ€™s exactly my point. Youโ€™ve been putting in way too many hours.โ€
You shook your head. He just didnโ€™t get it.
โ€œIf I hadnโ€™t, we wouldnโ€™t have this opening now,โ€ you said. You gave him a smile to try and lighten him. โ€œNow heโ€™s all teed up for you and the guys. This should be in and out. Practically a milk run for you.โ€
โ€œYeah, but not for you,โ€ he pointed out. โ€œAnd not for Lila. Youโ€™re stretching yourself too damn thin. Itโ€™s not like we need the money.โ€
Ahh, now we get to it, you thought. Yet again, he was bringing this up. In his mind, you shouldโ€™ve cut your hours at Supe Affairs after Lila was born.
You did take an extended maternity leave of an entire year and a half, which was much more than women usually got from their jobs. However, because of your relationship with Grace and the entire team, youโ€™d been allowed to come back whenever you felt ready.ย 
Ben had often felt it necessary to point out that with his money, you didnโ€™t have to work at all.ย 
He knew very well that for you, this work was more than a job.ย 
โ€œIโ€™m not the first working mom in existence, Ben,โ€ you said, pushing out of his hold. โ€œAnd Iโ€™ll remind you that Supe Affairs has a great daycare program. Lilaโ€™s very happy there.โ€
Plus, she was almost three and a half years old. In less than a year, Lila would be off to preschool.
โ€œAnd look, itโ€™s not about the money,โ€ you added. โ€œI told you before Lila was born. I am a mother, and Iโ€™m your wife. But Iโ€™m still me.โ€
Ben processed that for a moment, meeting your gaze.
โ€œThe situationโ€™s changed,โ€ he replied. He grasped your hips this time. His thumb gently brushed over your belly, which had a small bump under your high-waisted skirt.ย 
You were finally pregnant again. Three months, in fact, and you were having a boy. You knew that Ben had several reasons to be more protective than usualโ€ฆbut still. You thought you were already taking every precaution to keep you and your children safe, even with the occasionally extensive hours of your job.
โ€œThese cases can be long and difficult, not to mention dangerous,โ€ said Ben. His green eyes met yours as he looked down at you through furrowed brows. โ€œYouโ€™re putting yourself at risk.โ€
You blew out a breath and tried to placate him, soothing a hand over his chest.ย 
โ€œIโ€™ve stopped doing field missions,โ€ you pointed out. โ€œAnd Supe Affairs is the most secure building in the city. Do you think I would bring Lila there if it wasnโ€™t?โ€
The security team at the S.A. was bar none, not only because Loco was a part of that team. Frank was also your personal bodyguard; Ben hired him back when you found out you were pregnant with Lila.
In fact, Frank was coming to the house in a few minutes to pick you all up.
Ben frowned. โ€œI think youโ€™re being stubborn just to be fucking stubborn.โ€
That sparked at your temper. Again, you withdrew from his arms and crossed yours.
โ€œI think you need to face the fact that Iโ€™m protected as well as I can be,โ€ you said. โ€œI also think that youโ€™re trying to use this as a way to shoehorn me into some antiquated idea of what you still think a wife should be. Iโ€™m gonna tell you right now. Thatโ€™s not me! Itโ€™s never been me. And you know that.โ€
He opened his mouth to give an angry retort, but you beat him to it.
โ€œItโ€™s like you donโ€™t even care about what I want,โ€ you snapped. โ€œJust what you think is rightโ€”for me to be here waiting for you to come home, quite literally barefoot and pregnant, ready to rub your balls!โ€
Clichรฉ as it mightโ€™ve been to say, if the shoe fit, then you were certainly not going to be the one to wear it.
โ€œYou know what, you can accuse me of being stuck in the fucking past all you want,โ€ Ben said, raising a finger, as well as his voice. โ€œBut the problem here isnโ€™t me. Itโ€™s that what you want is goddamn idiotic!โ€
Your mouth fell agape. โ€œExcuse me?! I canโ€™t even believe you right now!โ€
Ben fairly loomed above you when he shouted back.
โ€œWell, that makes fucking two of us!โ€
His voice was loud enough to reverberate on the walls. You even flinched, but you held your ground with a glareโ€ฆ
Until you heard a whimper.
You and Ben paused, and turned to find Lila. The three-year-old was cowering a bit in the doorway to your bedroom. Her eyes welled up with tears, and she began to cry.
Your heart broke.
โ€œOh, honey,โ€ you breathed. You were both apologetic and mortified as you quickly went to her.
Ben was close behind you, but while Lila was quick to melt into your arms when you picked her up, she shied away from his attempt to reach out to her. What wouldโ€™ve been a placating hand on her head, turned into him pausing in surprise when she ducked.
โ€œLila?โ€ he prodded.
He tried to mask how put out he was by his daughter hiding her face from him, burrowing into your neck instead. She was usually a daddyโ€™s girl, through and through.
You shot him a knowing frown, while rubbing her back in comfort.
โ€œItโ€™s okay, baby,โ€ you told her. โ€œYour dad and I were justโ€ฆtalking. He didnโ€™t mean to shout.โ€
When Lila only whimpered in response, Benโ€™s gaze dimmed in understanding. His lips pursed.
You saw that look on his face, and you wanted to sigh. Part of you felt bad for him, at the way Lila had flinched away from her father. In a way though, maybe it was a lesson he needed to learn.
Frank arrived a few minutes later in a black SUV, like he did every weekday morning to bring you all to work. Ben was quiet and taciturn climbing into the backseat on one side, and you clipped Lila into her car seat from the other side. He still made sure that she was strapped in correctly, and even tried to earn his daughterโ€™s gaze.
She snuck a glance at him a couple of times, but quickly lowered it to play with one of her favorite stuffed animal toys (a little German shepherd that he had gotten for her).
Ben let out a long breath through his nose. He gave Frank a nod through the rearview mirror, and the other man peeled away from the house.
The four of you rode in silence away from your house in Scarsdale, towards New York City.
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Benโ€™s mood remained grim, even when you all got to Supe Affairs. Frank held back while you and Ben stopped in the hallway with Lila. You were carrying her, and she was holding onto you and her stuffed animal like a lifeline instead of looking anywhere elseโ€”namely at Ben.
You sighed and tried to pull her back enough to see her face.
โ€œDaddyโ€™s gotta go to work now. Want to say goodbye?โ€ you encouraged.
All Lila could manage was a shy look in his direction. Ben laid a gentle hand on her head, over her dark hair.
โ€œBye, sweetheart,โ€ he said.
Lila didnโ€™t answer him. She just bit her lip and stayed withdrawn.
You and Ben shared a glance. He was hiding it well behind his usual stoicism, but this was hurting him.ย There wasnโ€™t much either of you could do about it now, however. You both had work to do, and the mission would have to come first.
โ€œIโ€™ll be online in a bit,โ€ you told him.ย 
First, you needed to take Lila up to daycare before Frank accompanied you to your office. There youโ€™d be able to join the mission from your computer and put your headset on. Aside from surveillance, you were their virtual eyes on missions.ย 
So Ben tacitly agreed, and the two of you parted ways.
You went up to the second floor to drop Lila off at daycare, where you set her onto her feet. You could see that she was quiet and almost sad, not as bright and talkative as usual. And she was clinging to your hand. You bent down the best you could in your skirt, so you could meet her eyes.
โ€œAre you still upset with your dad?โ€ you asked.ย 
After a moment, Lila replied, โ€œDaddyโ€™s loud.โ€
You couldnโ€™t help a rueful smile.ย 
โ€œYeah, he can be,โ€ you nodded. โ€œBut heโ€™s gonna work on that, okay? He loves you very much.โ€
She finally smiled a little when you pressed a few sweet kisses to her cheeks. You felt a little better about leaving her with Sarah, the woman who ran the daycare center. She was kind, but well-organized, and good at her job of wrangling fifteen or so toddlers on a daily basis.
And she was hovering off to the side with a smile, waiting to shepherd Lila over to where the rest of the group were starting at the arts and crafts table.
โ€œOkay, baby. I love you. Iโ€™m just downstairs if you need me,โ€ you said, caressing Lilaโ€™s cheeks, brushing her hair away from her face.
She nodded and waved goodbye. Sarah then stepped in and guided the girl over to the crafts table. The other kids were already drawing and coloring with crayons and markers.
With a sigh, you knew you had to get to work. You joined Frank out in the hall.
โ€œDid something happen this morning?โ€ he asked. You gave him a weary look.
โ€œSomething always happens. Iโ€™ll fill you in when we hit the elevator,โ€ you said.
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โ€œKids are resilient. Sheโ€™ll bounce back,โ€ said Frank, when you two got off the elevator down to the basement, under the first floor. This was where the โ€œheavy stuffโ€ happened at the S.A.
โ€œThatโ€™s not the point, Frank. He hasnโ€™t snapped at me like that in a long time, and he really scared her. Thatโ€™s not fucking okay,โ€ you said. โ€œHe needs to learn to control his goddamn temper.โ€
He sent you a knowing glance. You rolled your eyes.
โ€œOkay, I know I donโ€™t always help. But in this case, I was justified,โ€ you said. โ€œBen was being an ass.โ€
โ€œRight,โ€ Frank nodded. โ€œItโ€™s not at all that heโ€™s worried about you.โ€
You narrowed your eyes at him. โ€œWhose side are you on?โ€
The man remained silent, but his stoic face wasnโ€™t fooling you. Heโ€™d been your friend for much too long, and he knew Ben just as wellโ€ฆwhich was why you found yourself reconsidering what happened this morning.
โ€œYou really think he has a point?โ€ you asked. โ€œAm I working too much?โ€
Frank shook his head and opened the door for you into the Surveillance Department. The two of you ventured to your office, where your quadruple monitor setup was waiting for you. He also had a desk for himself, since he often spent the long hours of your day with you.
โ€œWhen you were pregnant with Lila, you were on maternity leave by now,โ€ he pointed out.
โ€œBecause we had no idea what was going to happen,โ€ you countered. You went to your desk and started up your computer. โ€œI had to meet with Tonya once a week, ultrasounds and blood tests all the time, making sure Lila was healthy, that I was healthy. This time around, we have a better idea of what to expect.โ€
For example, you were experiencing bouts of super strength once again, but it was still intermittent. Although, you pretty much never needed coffee. Maybe the supe genes coursing through your system, thanks to your unborn son, was part of the reason why youโ€™d been able to go such long hours for these cases.
He's already brightening up my life, you thought with a little smile, holding a hand over your lower belly.
โ€œItโ€™s your choice,โ€ Frank said at last. โ€œBut it is possible that Ben cares about more than just making you a suburban housewife.โ€
At that, you sighed. There was nothing wrong with being a housewife, you knew. It just wasnโ€™tโ€ฆyou.
Once your computer and monitors were booted up, you connected to the right channels and put on your headset.
Already you could hear M.M. bitching about keeping the weapons trunk organized, not just tossing things in haphazardly.ย 
โ€œItโ€™s a simple fucking system, Frenchie. You can at least abide by it,โ€ M.M. said. โ€œWe donโ€™t have time to be scratching our asses while you try to find aโ€”โ€
โ€œHey, Bert and Ernie. Would you shut the fuck up already?โ€ Ben groused.
Your mouth twitched at his grumpiness.
โ€œA little testy this morning, ey guv?โ€ Butcher remarked.
โ€œGargle my ball sack,โ€ Ben replied, with an even grouchier deadpan than usual.
โ€œDo you kiss your child with that mouth?โ€ Frenchie teased.ย 
โ€œNah, just your motherโ€™s French hole,โ€ Ben slung back. You rolled your eyes.ย 
โ€œAll right, all right. Put the measuring tapes away,โ€ you interrupted. โ€œIโ€™m online, locked on your GPS.โ€
โ€œWell, if it ainโ€™t Mrs. America herself,โ€ Butcher drawled. โ€œGot a lock on Slingshotโ€™s location for us?โ€ย 
โ€œYou know it,โ€ you replied. โ€œSending to the group chat now. Slingshotโ€™s been spotted entering a strip club in Chinatown.โ€ย 
โ€œJeez. A little early for tits and booze. Itโ€™s 10:00 a.m. on a Tuesday,โ€ said Hughie.
You heard Ben huff in amusement. โ€œItโ€™s never too early.โ€
You snorted at that.
โ€œRight. Iโ€™ll remember that next time you fall asleep watching Family Feud,โ€ you clipped back.
You heard the other guys trying not to laugh as they got into Butcherโ€™s van. Part of you felt bad for teasing Ben, knowing he was already in a bad mood, but you were feeling a bit petty about what happened this morning.
You had to bite your lip against a smile, as you could picture the ill-tempered face your man was likely sporting.
And weโ€™re off.
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Lila wasnโ€™t having a good day.ย 
She didnโ€™t feel like coloring, and the toys just werenโ€™t fun today.
She just didnโ€™t want to be here. The other kids smelled like old Cheetos and feet (especially the boys).
She missed you. And though she hadnโ€™t wanted to admit it to you, she missed Daddy too.
Lila wanted to go homeโ€ฆshe wanted her mom.ย 
โ€œIโ€™m just downstairs if you need me,โ€ youโ€™d said.
Lila had a kind of plan percolating in her mind, all through the morning, and even through lunch time. She didnโ€™t want to get in trouble, but when sheโ€™d asked Miss Sarah if she could go see you, sheโ€™d said you were at work and couldnโ€™t come get Lila until later.ย 
But thatโ€™s not what Mommy said, Lila thought.ย ย 
After lunch, she laid on the napping mat with her pillow and blanket, even though she was wide awake. She didnโ€™t want to nap with the other kids, even though Miss Sarah told her it was time to sleep.ย 
Again, Lila didnโ€™t want to be bad. She didnโ€™t want to get in trouble either, but she really, really just wanted to see you.
And youโ€™d said it was okay to go downstairs if she needed you, right?
Lila closed her eyes while Miss Sarah was looking, but she waited until the teacher went into her office to answer a call. Then, Lila carefully put Charlie, her stuffed dog, against her pillow, tucking the blanket up to his neck.ย 
She crawled off her mat and snuck over to the door while Miss Sarah was distracted on her phone. Lila reached up and was just tall enough to twist the doorknob. It led her out of the room, and out into the empty hall. She then looked both ways for a clue on where to go.ย 
She heard a ding, and looked over at a nearby pair of elevators.
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The mission went more or less according to plan. Slingshotโ€™s abilities allowed him to stretch every part of his body like elastic. It not only made him hard to catch, but even harder to maim without collateral damage.ย 
A whole block in Chinatown was wrecked in the takedown, but your idea of ripping the cables from a nearby utility pole to electrocute him let Ben finally subdue the elastic supe. Kimiko knocked him out, and Butcher slapped some tight-ass cuffs on him and dragged him into the van. They returned with the rogue supe in custody.ย 
You were mentally exhausted from helping them track down routes to pin down Slingshot, but you were relieved to be done. You were also satisfied that another danger to society was neutralized, for now.
You took pride in your work, and you didnโ€™t think Ben saw that, or thought it was important. You supposed that was what upset you the most about that fight with him.
Sometimes, you wondered if he would ever truly change.
You grabbed your purse and made sure to slip in your gun and taser. You left your office and greeted Frank, who had just finished making his rounds in the building with Locoโ€™s team. Frank joined you on the way to the elevator.
โ€œI meant to ask you, howโ€™s Alana doing?โ€ you asked. Alana was his daughter, who was now in college.
โ€œSheโ€™s changed her major yet again,โ€ he said wryly. โ€œThis time to philosophy.โ€
โ€œPhilosophy? Thatโ€™s interesting. What does she want to do with that?โ€ you asked.
โ€œNo fucking clue,โ€ he replied, hitting the button for the first floor. โ€œI just hope she gets bored and picks something practical. Likeโ€ฆteaching, or dentistry.โ€
You shot him a bemused look. โ€œDentistry?โ€
โ€œAs much money as I put into that girlโ€™s braces, itโ€™d be good for her to pay it forward,โ€ Frank said, in a surly tone that reminded you of Ben. You had to laugh.
You and Frank exited the elevator and started down the hall.
You planned to touch base with Grace Mallory on the safety measures of Slingshotโ€™s containment before he was put into custody. The idea was to house him in a prison cell that could actually hold him until he went through the legal process.ย 
But youโ€™d only gotten halfway down the hall before the supe in question literally stretched past you on unnaturally long legsโ€”in a blur of his white and blue supe suit. Your eyes widened on a gasp as you watched him head toward the elevator youโ€™d just come off of.ย 
โ€œFuckinโ€™ hell, weโ€™ve got a runner!โ€ Butcher shouted from down the hall. He along with Ben, M.M., Frenchie, Hughie, and Kimiko were rushing your way.ย 
It all happened so fast.ย 
You registered Frank shooting out a protective arm in front of you. You turned back to see the elevator doors had opened back up, and Slingshot rushed inside. He made eye contact with you.
Then his arms shot out like rubber bands. One of them knocked Frank into the far wall. You gasped and froze on reflex.ย 
Ben shouted your name; he was running towards you, getting closer. You were able to meet his wide eyes for a brief moment. He reached out for you, but those stretching arms closed around you first. You gasped when they slung you backwards.
You cried out in shock when your back met a surprisingly solid chest.
Meanwhile, Ben barreled the rest of the way down the hall as the elevators closed just short of his angrily furrowed face.
The stretched arms holding you were tight around your torso, making your grit your teeth as you tried to pull away. They twisted you around so you could face your captor. Or so he could see you.
His natural height was around Butcherโ€™sโ€”dark hair, blue eyes, angular features. He gave you what was probably meant to be a suave smile as those baby blues dragged down your body.
โ€œHey, baby. Nice heels,โ€ he said. You rolled your eyes.
โ€œSo thatโ€™s why they call you Slingshot,โ€ you said, still a bit breathless. The elevator started to move. Heโ€™d chosen the top floor. โ€œWhere do you think youโ€™re gonna go?โ€
โ€œIsnโ€™t it obvious?โ€ he snarked. โ€œAnywhere but here. And youโ€™re gonna help me.โ€
โ€œHow? Being a human shield?โ€
โ€œFor a start,โ€ he smirked down at you. He backed up a step just to take another proper look at you, and he whistled lowly. He took your chin between his sweaty fingers, making you grimace when he stroked your cheek.ย 
โ€œDown boy,โ€ you said warily. โ€œTrust me, you really donโ€™t want to do this.โ€
This jackass hadnโ€™t even realized you had a small, but noticeable baby bump.
โ€œWhy not, babe?โ€ he grinned. โ€œYouโ€™ve got the whole sexy librarian thing going on.โ€ย 
You heard a loud creaking sound outside the elevator doors. The compartment itself came to an abrupt stop, making the lights flicker.ย 
โ€œWhat the fuck?โ€ Slingshot muttered. His hold around you loosened.ย 
You had an idea of what just happened, with grim satisfaction. You also took advantage of his distraction and managed to slip a hand into your purse.
You pulled out your taser. Slingshot noticed and tried to grab you again, but the elevator somehow started to move in reverse, about a foot a time. It made both of you lose your balance and utter sounds of surprise.ย ย 
As soon as you regained your footing, you aimed the taser at the most sensitive place you could think ofโ€”the supeโ€™s dick and balls.
His howls of pain were loud enough to reach Ben, Frank, and the rest of the team on the third floor. Benโ€™s face became edged with a smirk.ย 
He kept pulling the elevator cables down until the compartmentโ€™s doors were in reach. There he grabbed the doors and pulled them open with his bare hands, crunching metal under his fingers. The moment he saw you, the relief in your eyes, he grabbed your hand and pulled you out, into his arms.ย 
Slingshot was angry, though he managed to recover, rip off the taserโ€™s metal prongs and wires, and evade Kimiko, M.M., and even Butcher when he slithered his way out of the elevator and around their guns. The bullets ricocheted off the walls, and off his body as they followed him down the hall.
Ben focused on you. He brushed his half-gloved hands over your shoulders and sides while he quickly looked you over. There was worry in his eyes, disguised as anger. You caught your breath and held a protective hand over your lower belly out of reflex.ย 
โ€œYou okay?โ€ he said, but you were already nodding before he asked.
โ€œIโ€™m fine,โ€ you replied. โ€œJust get him. Iโ€™ll get Lila.โ€ย 
Ben nodded. He shot one last firm look at Frank, who was back at your side. Frank laid a hand on your shoulder as Ben took off down the hall to find Slingshot.ย 
โ€œThe stairs are safer at this point,โ€ Frank said.ย 
โ€œI would have to agree,โ€ you said, steeling yourself with a breath.ย 
While you and Frank went downstairs to the second floor, you didnโ€™t see the second elevator ding, its doors opening to your daughter, who ambled out alone. She looked one way down the hall, but hearing her fatherโ€™s voice carrying down the opposite way, she started venturing in that direction.
If she couldnโ€™t find you, then sheโ€™d find her dad.ย 
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โ€œWhat the hell do you mean you lost her?โ€ you shouted at Sarah, the woman who was supposed to be looking after your daughter. โ€œHow do you lose a three-year-old at nap time? What kind of incompetent fuck are you?โ€
Yes, Ben had unfortunately rubbed off on you.ย 
Sarah was in tears by the time you were not even halfway done, but Frank calmed you down with another touch to your shoulder.ย You had tears of panic stinging in your eyes when you met his gaze, your mouth trembling.
โ€œI just radioed in and put Loco and the rest of the security team on looking for Lila. She canโ€™t have gotten far,โ€ he said.ย 
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โ€œCome on! Keep up with me, old man,โ€ Slingshot taunted at Ben. His super flexibility allowed him to keep several steps ahead, dodging any attempts to grab him and any weapons fired with easy dips and playful deflection.ย 
โ€œWhen I get my hands on you, you flaccid fuck, you wonโ€™t know your ass from your ball sack,โ€ Ben growled.ย 
But he crashed into the wall when he took a corner too hard trying to tackle the other supe. He picked himself up from the debris of crumbled wall and plaster, ignoring Kimikoโ€™s offer of a helping hand.ย 
โ€œBig fucking talk from the walking AARP commercial,โ€ Slingshot snorted. He turned around and once again prepared to run. โ€œTry not to shatter a hip, asshole!โ€
He took off down another bend in the hallway. Meanwhile, Ben shook himself off and joined the others in running after this cocksucker. Ben looked over at Butcher.
โ€œWhatโ€™s your fucking plan?โ€ he grated out.ย 
Butcher seemed to have an idea growing in his mind. โ€œWhatโ€™d she do to him in that elevator?โ€
โ€œTased his dick, by the sound of it,โ€ Ben replied. He knew what weapons you kept in your purse, and that you'd know better than to fire a gun in an enclosed elevator. Butcher snapped his fingers.
โ€œElectricity. Bloody brilliant,โ€ he said. He pointed at Hughie and grabbed Frenchie by the collar. โ€œYou, with me. Iโ€™ve got an idea. The rest of ya, get him pinned down.โ€
โ€œEasier said than done, motherfucker,โ€ M.M. grumbled. But he followed Ben and Kimiko to find their errant supe.ย 
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Slingshot played a cocky game, but inside, there was fear.ย 
Theyโ€™d caught him once, and now, this building was crawling with security, let alone the assholes chasing him.
He was panting for breath when he nearly ran straight intoโ€ฆa kid?ย 
She was wandering around, trying to open a locked door. He skidded to a stop in front of her, and she looked up at him wide-eyed. He tilted his head. She was a cute little thing with brown hair and green eyes. She wore a blouse with cartoon ducks on it over her jeans and sunshine-yellow shoes.ย 
โ€œHey, cutie. Where you going?โ€ asked Slingshot.ย โ€œAre you lost?โ€
โ€œLooking for my mom,โ€ she answered, a bit timidly. The supe gave her an easy smile; inside, he knew heโ€™d just found his collateral, and his ticket out of here.ย 
โ€œOkay. Whatโ€™s your name?โ€ he asked.ย 
โ€œLโ€ฆLila,โ€ she said.ย 
โ€œPretty name for a pretty girl,โ€ he said, with all due charm. He struck a pose, with his fists held up to his waist. โ€œI can help you, Lila. Iโ€™m a superhero.โ€
Her eyes widened. โ€œReally? Like Daddy?โ€
โ€œOh, yeah. Your dad and I are friends.โ€ Never mind that he had no fucking clue who her daddy was. He offered her his hand.ย 
Now, Lila knew not to talk to strangers, but if he knew her dadโ€ฆย 
After a moment of reluctant indecision, she took his hand. Slingshot tapered a smirk into a more friendly smile.ย 
โ€œLetโ€™s go find him.โ€ย ย 
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Ben was ahead of the pack, but he soon came to an abrupt stop with wider eyes. He finally found Slingshot, except he had Benโ€™s daughter by the hand. Slingshot wore a cocky grin as he took the child up into his arms.ย 
โ€œHey, guys. Whoโ€™s this little peanut belong to?โ€ he asked. โ€œSaid she was looking for her daddy.โ€ย 
Benโ€™s breath turned to lead in his lungs. Lilaโ€™s eyes lit up with recognition when she saw him.ย 
โ€œDaddy!โ€
Benโ€™s softer gaze shifted from her, hardening once it reached the other supe.ย 
โ€œLet her go,โ€ he growled lowly.ย 
Slingshotโ€™s grin deepened incredulously as he laughed.
โ€œOh shit, sheโ€™s yours?โ€ he exclaimed. โ€œThisโ€™s just too fucking perfect.โ€
โ€œLila!โ€ your shout came from behind Ben, and you stepped around M.M. and Kimiko.
Ben held out a hand to keep you at bay. He kept his eyes on Slingshot, but Ben heard your gasp. His stomach dipped, knowing your worry had to be reaching new heights as you took in the situation.
โ€œBen,โ€ you uttered.ย 
โ€œIโ€™ve got this,โ€ he said to you.
โ€œYou donโ€™t got shit, old man,โ€ Slingshot snapped. He shot you a smirk next. โ€œSheโ€™s your bitch? Figures.โ€
โ€œJust let her go,โ€ you implored. You had tears brimming in your eyes. โ€œWe can negotiate your release if you promise to be more responsible.โ€
Ben shot you a glance then. He didnโ€™t intend for this fucker to live, let alone walk the streets of New York again. But he supposed any bluff was worth it at this point.
Meanwhile, seeing the distress on her parentsโ€™ faces made Lila begin to break down into tears. She whined, pushing against the supe holding her, wanting to be let go.ย 
โ€œItโ€™s okay, sweetie,โ€ Slingshot cooed. โ€œYouโ€™re just gonna take a little trip with me.โ€
โ€œNo!โ€ a ragged shout tore from your throat when he took a few backward steps down the hall.ย 
Ben held you back from following him, all while he tensed with rage. M.M. and Kimiko were also poised to try and stop the supe. But Slingshot tightened his hold on Lila in warning.
โ€œBack the fuck off,โ€ he demanded. โ€œOnce I get to JFK and get my ass on a plane, maybe, maybe you see your daughter agaโ€”โ€
He had to stop short, as he sensed something just outside of his peripheral vision.
It was Butcher, coming at him to swing a baseball bat at the supeโ€™s head.
You screamed in protest, but Butcher was relying on the supeโ€™s reflexes to dodge the bat. He wasnโ€™t disappointed. Slingshot dodged. Though in his distraction, it gave Ben the opening he needed to step into his orbit and land a solid punch across Slingshotโ€™s face.
It not only cracked his jaw, but also caught him off guard enough for his grip on the child to loosen. Ben grabbed his daughter and turned her away in a protective embrace.
Then Frenchie brought Slingshot down with the prongs of a massive taser clipping onto his nipples. He jolted and screamedโ€”and went down hard on the tile floor.ย 
While Hughie and M.M. ushered in the rest of the security team to swarm in and take the supe into custody, you raced forward to Ben and Lila in tears.
Lila was also crying and clinging to Benโ€™s neck, shaking like a leaf.
โ€œItโ€™s okay, sweetheart. Iโ€™ve got you,โ€ he said quietly, so only she could hear. Lila whimpered and burrowed tighter against his neck.
Tears streamed down your face, but you tried to breathe through it. You rubbed her back and checked her over, making sure she wasnโ€™t hurt.ย 
For Ben, the force of his relief was pounding in his ears. He briefly closed his eyes as he held his daughter closer.ย 
When he opened them again, he met your gaze. You couldnโ€™t speak. All you could do was grab onto his wrist for support. He gave that to you, wrapping his free arm around your waist and pulling you into his side.ย 
โ€œFrank,โ€ he said. His voice was a sharp command. The other man was ready to carry out whatever Ben asked. He also looked relieved to see that Lila was all right.
โ€œPull the car around,โ€ said Ben. Frank nodded, and went to do just that.
Ben turned to watch in satisfaction when Frenchie and M.M. hauled up a still twitching Slingshot. Butcher slapped a pair of electroshock handcuffs on him that would keep him better contained this timeโ€”courtesy of the S.A. armory. He nodded over at Ben, and the latter returned the gesture.ย 
You missed it all, as you were preoccupied with comforting your daughter.
โ€œItโ€™s okay, honey. Weโ€™re going home,โ€ you gently whispered to Lila, who was still hiding her face in Benโ€™s neck. You shared a look with him, and he gave you a short nod. His hand moved to the small of your back, both protective and possessive as the three of you moved towards the garage exit.ย 
There Frank waited with the car that would take your family home.
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You watched Ben with the beginning of tears brimming in your eyes. You managed to hold them at bay while he set Lila down in her bed. Youโ€™d just finished giving her a bath and helping her get into her pajamas after a quiet, somewhat tense dinner.ย 
Lila still seemed upset in her unusually quiet mood, which you knew was understandable. Ben sat at her bedside and soothed a hand over her head, brushing her cheek with his thumb.ย 
โ€œYouโ€™ve had a crazy frigginโ€™ day, huh?โ€ he asked. Lila didnโ€™t want to look at him, but he encouraged it with gentle fingers brushing her chin, teasing the tip of her nose. She hinted at a smile and finally met his eyes. He smiled back at her, if more reserved. But his expression turned serious again.
โ€œWhatโ€™s wrong?โ€ he asked. He could see it. She had been more or less fine throughout dinner, but now sheโ€™d turned quiet and withdrawn again. She only got like that when she was upset about something.
Lila toyed with the ear of her stuffed animal, Charlie. Frank had retrieved it for her from the daycare.
โ€œSorry I talked to strangers,โ€ Lila mumbled.
You had to bite the inside of your lip so you wouldnโ€™t cry. You came over to sit on the other side of her bed. You sniffed and shook your head, but Ben beat you to what you wanted to say.ย 
โ€œYouโ€™re not in trouble, all right? Weโ€™re not mad,โ€ he said.ย 
Lilaโ€™s lower lip wobbled. Ben sighed and picked her up, plopping her down in his lap. She hugged him as tight as she could and he held her back, warm and secure.ย ย 
โ€œYou know Iโ€™m always gonna be there to keep you safe. You never have to worry or be afraid,โ€ he said.ย 
You carded your fingers through Lilaโ€™s hair so she knew you were there too. Usually, the roles were reversed, where you were doing the comforting and Ben was the solid support. Right now though, you just didnโ€™t have the words. Not when guilt was eating you from the inside out.
Fortunately, your husband did have the words, after he heaved a sigh.ย 
โ€œI might raise my voice, sometimes, but uhโ€ฆyou never have to be afraid of me either. Okay?โ€ he said.
"Mhmm," Lila agreed.
You laid hand on Ben's arm, gently squeezing. He met your gaze, and knew what you were prodding with just that look in your eyes.
Briefly, he hesitated before he looked back down at his daughter.
"I'm sorry I scared you," he said.
Lila nodded against his chest. โ€œIt's okay.โ€
โ€œGood,โ€ he said, laying a kiss on her forehead. โ€œAll right, you ready to go to bed?โ€
She clung to him and made a sound of refusal.ย 
You were finally able to crack a smile. You leaned down by her ear.ย 
โ€œYou want Daddy to read you a story first?โ€ you asked.ย 
Ben shot you a look at the way you volunteered him for that. He was tired and drained.ย 
But one hopeful, shiny look from his daughter, and he folded like a deck of cards.
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Later, when Lila was asleep, you tucked her in one last time and Ben turned out the light. He kept the door cracked open, just in case she called for either one of you tonight.
Then, somehow, you and Ben ended up in the kitchen instead of the bedroom. As exhausted as both of you were, you needed this moment to decompress, with one of your old favorite pastimesโ€ฆ
He broke out the whiskey while you found an appropriate midnight snack, and then a seat with him at the breakfast bar. The two of you shared a companionable silence, as well as a large bag of sea salt and vinegar chips.ย 
That was sort of how you felt inside.
โ€œToday canโ€™t happen again,โ€ Ben said, breaking the silence.ย 
You looked over at him, but he was looking beyond you. Maybe so he didnโ€™t have to show you how deeply heโ€™d been rattled. You knew him far too well for that.ย 
โ€œOf course not,โ€ you replied. And you released a sigh. โ€œSo hereโ€™s what Iโ€™m thinking. From now on Iโ€™ll work from home, so I can watch Lila until she goes to preschool.โ€
Ben got ready to argue, but you held up a hand. The other went to rest over your belly.ย You had scheduled an ultrasound with Dr. Tonya Baker tomorrow, just to make sure all was well after this ordeal.
โ€œI already plan to take my maternity leave when this guy rolls into town,โ€ you said with a smile. โ€œThen, when Iโ€™m ready, and if itโ€™s feasible, I can continue to work from home until all the kids are in school.โ€
Benโ€™s lips twitched humorlessly. He shouldโ€™ve known youโ€™d continue making this a negotiation. He set down his glass, and he reached out to slide a hand over yours, across your belly. He took in a deep breath. But when he let it go, you sensed you still hadnโ€™t convinced him.
โ€œListen, I know you donโ€™t want me to workโ€”โ€ you began.
โ€œItโ€™s not that,โ€ he said. He made sure you looked him in the eyes when he said it. โ€œItโ€™s not.โ€
Despite yourself, you read the sincerity in his words. It had you pausing, waiting for him to continue.
โ€œYou know damn wellโ€ฆthat just being around me is dangerous,โ€ he said. โ€œTo you, and to Lila. But you being connected with Supe Affairs, working these missions, even from behind a desk, itโ€™s a fucking risk. Itโ€™ll always be a risk.โ€
You considered that with new understanding. You took his hand with both of yours.
โ€œBen, this life, this workโ€ฆitโ€™s the same for me as it is for you. Itโ€™s all I know how to do. Itโ€™s what Iโ€™m wired for. So thatโ€™s why itโ€™s hard for me to turn down that dial,โ€ you explained. โ€œBut look, I understand what youโ€™re saying. Believe me, I do. And todayโ€ฆtoday wasโ€ฆโ€
Your breath hitched as tears stung in your eyes. Ben shook his head and tugged you closer.
โ€œCome โ€˜ere,โ€ he said.
You left your chair to go to him. You stood between his long legs while he pulled you into a warm embrace. Logically, you knew that what happened today wasnโ€™t your fault. However, part of you still felt like a failure of a mother for underestimating the risks of having your daughter at the S.A.ย ย 
You shouldโ€™ve known better, you berated yourself. And yet, it was Benโ€™s words that stopped your train of thought.
โ€œToday wasn't on you,โ€ he said.ย "Get that thought outta your head."
He knew you well too, and this was one of those times. You wept harder against him, pressing your face into the crook of his neck. He held you, comforted you until you began to calm down.
โ€œTake your maternity leave early,โ€ he said. His deep voice was a rumble. โ€œYouโ€™re going to have your hands full with Lila when Iโ€™m not here. Unless we hire someone to help you.โ€
It was an idea you could consider, but who could you trust? That was the question.ย 
Maybe your mother? you thought. You knew she was thinking of retiring from her job in a couple of years anyway.
You sighed and slipped your fingers through Benโ€™s hair. Your hand came to rest on the back of his neck as you leaned against him.
When Lila came into your lives, you had been so excited to start a family that you hadnโ€™t considered the non-physical side effects. Namely, the sacrifices you would have to make in order to keep your family safe.ย 
Before you met Ben, your job was your life. But today reminded you that your daughterโ€ฆand your unborn son, were more important to you than your job. No matter how important that job might be for the rest of the world.ย 
โ€œLetโ€™s talk about this more tomorrow,โ€ you said, shaking your head. โ€œI canโ€™t think anymore.โ€
After a beat of hesitation, he agreed with a nod. Like so many battles before, whatever compromise you and Ben finally reached would be hard won. His hand found your cheek and caressed your skin.
โ€œYou still try my fucking patience, you know that?โ€ he muttered.
You smiled tiredly. โ€œDid you really expect that to change?โ€
He scoffed. Even so, he guided you off his shoulder so that he could claim your lips. His kiss tasted like the burn of whiskey. You met his demanding lips in kind, though you were the first one to part from him slowly.ย 
โ€œI love you,โ€ you whispered a reminder.ย 
Ben nodded and pressed a kiss to your forehead. He lingered there for a moment, as if he could pause the world for a while.ย 
He eventually let out a breath through his nose and allowed himself to be honest.
โ€œI love you too,โ€ he said.
With that shared understanding, he stood from his seat. He drained the last of his glass before he bent to gather you up into his arms. You yelped in surprise, clinging to his shoulders.
โ€œTime for some rest,โ€ Ben said. There was a certain smile on his face, gentler than usual.
He forged a path towards the bedroom. You sighed and laid your head against his chest.ย 
For once, you didnโ€™t argue with him.ย ย 
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AN: I've been wanting to put this one out for a while now. ๐Ÿ’š๐Ÿ’š I so hope you enjoyed this chapter of the BMD verse! Do you like how their little family is evolving? ๐Ÿ˜˜
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โ–ถ๏ธย Break Me Down Masterlist
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babyjakes ยท 2 years ago
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ever green, evermore | 4. difficult introductions.
ใ€ˆ disclaimer: this blog posts content not suitable for individuals under the age of 18. minors are strictly prohibited from viewing, sharing, or interacting with this blog. for more information on this blog's commitment to protecting minors, read our full statement here. ใ€‰
โ† last chapter | series masterlistย | next chapter (coming soon!) โ†’
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summary | loving husbands jake and ari had always believed they were all each other could ever want or need. but one unusual summer, when their world is turned upside-down by an uncanny girl from down the street, they find that having someone to love, nurture, and care for together is the missing piece that finally completes their perfect family and lives.
characters | caretaker!jake jensen, daddy!ari levinson, wrenley beauchamp (original character)
warnings | mentions/depictions of domestic and sexual violence, mental health themes: anxiety/panic disorders, trauma and post-traumatic-stress, eating disorders (restrictive subtype), therapeutic methods and tools: exposure, age regression.
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After such a difficult afternoon, Jake was a bit worried Wren might be scared away from visiting again. But luckily, their routine resumed uninterrupted; if anything, it almost seemed to the man as if the entire experience had actually brought him closer to the girl than he was before. It made sense, in a way, as she had shown more vulnerability than ever, and he had managed to maintain her trust through it all. He had done what he had hoped to do: gently encourage her to step outside her comfort zone while still respecting her emotional needs. In the days following, once he knew he and Wren were still on good terms, Jake found himself relieved that he had managed to take a few steps forward with his friend without completely pushing her too far.
For a while after that, the hardest part was simply the little one's apologies. They were plentiful and unyielding; it seemed she just couldn't adequately express her guilt and shame no matter how hard she tried. Jake was more than happy to listen to anything that might be on Wren's mind, and when the 'sorry's just seemed to keep coming and coming, he held no frustration or annoyance with her. He knew it was just her mind convincing her she had to make up for what she had "done." But it broke his heart to see her so anguished, especially when she often ended up in tears through her scrambled words. All he could do was accept her apologies and promise that she was forgiven, or even further, that there was nothing to forgive in the first placeโ€” of course no one was mad at her. Of course they understood. It just seemed as though it was going to take a good long while to convince Wren of that.
Weeks went by and Jake figured it would be best to just put off any further attempts at the meeting for the time being, even after the final apology had seemingly been given. He and Ari were in agreement that this would most likely be best, considering how upsetting the entire ordeal had been for the poor girl. But then, out of the blue, Wren surprised them both by asking for another go at it, herself.
It was early one morning as she and Jake tended the garden together, the courage to ask the question seeming to come from nowhere as her little voice piped up amidst the balmy heat of the summer air, "J-Jakey?"
Looking up from the blush-colored peonies before him, the man raised a gentle brow at her as he hummed, "Hmm? What's up, darlin'?"
Wren's hands paused over the greenery, her small fingers fiddling with her clump of weeds as she kept her gaze low. Bottom lip puffing out a bit, she couldnโ€™t seem to make it past that point on her own. Sensing her hesitancy, Jake pulled back from his work, wanting to give her his full attention. "What's on your mind, sweet girl?" It was rare for her to ever speak first, even after all the time they'd spent together. She was just a quiet presence; she rarely initiated any conversation of her own.
"Just w-wanted to ask..." she mumbled, her voice barely loud enough for her friend to hear. Leaning in a bit to listen, Jake nodded encouragingly, though he knew it would probably take more coaxing than that to find out whatever was bothering the sheepish girl.
"Go ahead, sweetie. You know you can ask me anything," he murmured gently, giving her a small, sincere smile.
Managing a cautious gaze in his direction, Wren caught it, mustering up more courage through a few deep breaths. "Just wanted... I was wondering... I-I..." Eyes falling again, she finally let out the words that would come as such a pleasant surprise to Jake, "I-I was hoping maybe... maybe I could try again... m-meeting Mr. Ari, I mean."
The manโ€™s eyes widened a bit at her words. Wren seemed a little unsure of how to handle his surprise, so he was fast to snap out of his shock. "Oh honey, I think he'd love if we could try again," he smiled, his excitement audible in his voice. "You really want to? We just haven't wanted to push, y'know... we know it was so difficult last time," he told her sympathetically. Wren nodded, her cheeks darkening a bit at the reminder. "And that's okay, bub-" he added quickly, "-we know this is all so hard; I'm so proud of you, chicky. C'mere," he breathed, abandoning his spot across the flower boxes to collect her into a warm embrace.
"I-I'd like to try again, please," she spoke softly into his shoulder. "I promise I'll do better, I-I... I won't back out this time." Pulling back slightly to look at her, Jake was a bit concerned by the sense of urgency in her voice; it was almost as if she were afraid she might be denied another chance, which certainly would never be the case.
"Hey cutie, hey..." the kind man cooed, brushing her hair back from her face, "of course you can try again, Wren. And even if you do have to stop, that's okay. You can have as much time as you need, as many tries as you need, okay? We're just so proud of you for trying, sweet thing. You're bein' so brave, so, so brave." Tucking her hair behind her ear, he cupped her cheek, gazing at her softly. "So, what were you thinkin'? We can do this all on your timing, at whatever pace feels best."
"Well..." blinking bashfully, Wren admitted, "I-I was thinkin' about how... you told me, Mr. Ari really loves lemon desserts, 'member?"
"That's right, he does," Jake confirmed with a grin. "Good memory, bubba."
Tapping the toes of her shoes together, the girl continued, "Was thinking... maybe I could make somethin' special for him. And then... y'know..."
"Sure," he nodded understandingly, filling in the rest of the timid thing's words. "Bring 'em on over and we can give this all another go? I think that's a wonderful idea, sweetheart. He's gonna be so excited; I can't wait to tell him." Thinking for a moment, he suggested, "Maybe you could bring them sometime later this week? I know he'll be finishing up a thesis today or tomorrow. That should leave him with plenty of free time to snack with us."
Wren nodded, and though her nervousness was plain as day on her delicate face, Jake was encouraged to see a teeny glimmer of hope shining in the sweet girl's eyes as she stood there before him, her little cheek cradled delicately into his tender hand. "I-I'll make something super yummy, I really hope he'll like it."
"I'm sure he will, chicky,โ€ Jake was able to promise her without a doubt in his mind. โ€œAri's loved everything you've ever brought us."
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As he entered back into the house later that morning, he could hardly wait to tell Ari the news. Almost tripping over himself as he kicked off his work boots, he made his way swiftly to the pair of glass doors at the entrance to the couple's shared office, giving a light knock. His husband could be seen in his usual spot, amidst scattered paperwork and his computer which occupied most of his L-shaped desk. Looking up at the sound of a visitor, the older man gave Jake a smile, motioning for him to enter.
"Hey honey, you two all finished for the day?" Ari mused, hitting save on his document as he pushed back a bit in his chair. Jake found his way to his own seat at his smaller workspace, relaxing back into the faux-leather cushion as he nodded. "Hot out there today, huh?" the doctor noted, "I've been feeling the heat of the sun through the windows. Glad you two weren't at it for too long."
"You'll never guess what she said," Jake smiled, his excitement seeping through his attempts to mask it as his husband returned his grin, happy to see his partner so happy. "I was so surprised, Ari; I could've cried."
"What'd she say, babe?" Ari asked, now intrigued. It was normal for the blonde to report back on his time spent with his friend; many times he had the sweetest stories to tell of little moments they'd shared, but this sort of excitement was something new.
"She asked if she could try meeting you again," Jake beamed, "she brought it up, all on her own. I thought for sure after what happened last time, she'd never want to give it another go. But it seems like she does really want to meet you, even though it's so difficult for her," he told him proudly. "She was so sweet when she asked, Ari. I wish you could've seen her."
"Oh my," Ari's voice swelled, "I certainly wasn't expecting that."
"Tell me about it," Jake sighed, shaking his head. "I'm so proud'a her. She's really come so far, even in just the time I've known her. Hopefully we can keep working towards the two of you finally getting to meet, face to face. She's gonna bring some treats later this week, after you're done with your paper. She wants to make them special, just for you."
"What a sweet girl," Ari hummed fondly, the thought of little Wrenley making him something special, despite all of her fear towards him, just melting his heart. "Well, that'll be all the more reason to keep working at it," he chuckled as he motioned to his mountain of papers, "I wish we could have her sooner."
"I was thinkin' we should approach things a little differently this time," Jake mentioned, mindlessly picking at a few specks of dirt on his pants as he spoke, "everything seemed to fall apart when you came out for those few moments. Maybe it would be best to get her inside first, just let her look around and see that it's safe."
"That might help," Ari agreed, thinking for a moment before adding, "I guess since she's never been in the house, she might not know what to expect. You guys can come in at her pace, get your shoes off and get settled, that sort of thing. Good thinking."
"We'll just take it one step at a time," Jake nodded. "I told her it'll be okay if she has to stop again; I don't want her to feel too much pressure. I know she's so embarrassed about how things went last time."
"Poor girl," Ari frowned, hating the thought of her having to feel such a way about something she couldn't even control to begin with. "One step at a time," he repeated Jake's words, "sounds like a plan to me, bub."
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A few days later on Thursday afternoon, Jake finally got to send the anticipated text. 'Hey chicky, Ari finished up his thesis this morning. You free tomorrow?' Tagging the end of his text with a yellow heart, he hit send. A few minutes later, it was confirmed; Wren would bake that evening and make her way over in the morning. Ari and Jake were elated, spending most of the rest of the night trying to tidy up the house. While they certainly knew it might be another difficult day ahead, they couldn't wait to hopefully make more progress with the girl.
Around nine the next morning, Wren texted Jake to let him know she was heading over on her bike. He and Ari decided the older man would stay in the office while the pair of friends took their time in entering the home. "Good luck out there," Ari planted a kiss in Jake's hair before heading to the office to wait things out.
"Love you, big guy," Jake called after him as he took to pulling on his boots, standing in the entryway.
"Love you more, handsome!" Ari sang back before closing the office door behind him, leaving Jake alone for a few moments to collect his thoughts. He had a weird feeling about the day ahead, a good one. He tried to hold onto the fact that the whole thing had been the girl's own idea to begin with; that alone gave him hope that she might be able to make some big strides forward.
Taking his time, he headed out through the front door, deciding to leave it open while closing the glass storm door in its place. He thought maybe being able to see into the house would be comforting for Wren; he wanted to do everything he possibly could, down to the tiniest details, to help his friend feel safe. Walking down the gravel path away from the house, he was warmed gently by the morning sun as it stood beneath a thin veil of clouds in the sky. It wasn't too warm of a day, nice enough to open up the windows, the man thought to himself as he found his way to the front of the garden, stopping to wait as he gazed down the long road towards the hill. He could see a small figure traveling his way in the distance; as the minutes passed, it grew larger and larger, turning into a familiar body perched atop an ivory bike.
When Wren saw Jake waiting for her, she rang her bell in greeting like always, earning a smile from the blonde-haired man as he waved at the approaching girl. "Hi sweetheart," he greeted warmly as she made it to the edge of the drive, parking her bike in its place by the mailbox. "Nice out today, isn't it? Guess the sun's finally letting up a bit; this week sure's been brutal."
Gathering her basket, Wren nodded in agreement at Jake's observation as she made her way over to her friend, mumbling a meek hello. Her posture was already stiff; it wasn't hard for him to notice. When he pulled her in for a hug, he could feel her small frame trembling weakly against him. "Hey sweet girl," he softened his voice, holding her in his embrace for a few moments as he rubbed her back gently. "You're okay, there's no rush. I got you," he hummed, relieved to feel her relaxing a bit at his words.
When they pulled away from each other, Jake offered the girl a smile as he looked her over. "I like your dress, cutie. S'it new?" he tried to loosen her up with some small talk.
Looking down at her checkered beige apron gown, which she wore over a plain white shirt, Wren shook her head. "No, b-but I haven't worn it much this summer." Jake nodded, noticing it looked a bit heavier and warmer than most of her usual sundresses.
"Well it sure is adorable," he complimented. It was almost a bit of a routine they had. The man was always so impressed by her clothes; he commented regularly on whatever the girl happened to be wearing that day. Clearly she was quite the seamstress, certainly the most talented Jake had ever seen.
Wren gave a hum of bashful thanks as she crossed a foot nervously behind the other, prompting the boy beside her to take her hand carefully in hopes of comforting her. "How're you feeling, honey?" he asked, his voice low and sensitive as the little one's eyes fell to the gravel beneath her shoes.
Blinking her wide bambi eyes, Wren's voice struggled to come out steadily in her reply. "N-nervous," she admitted, carefully adding, "the cupcakes turned out nicely."
"Cupcakes, huh?" Jake smiled, taking the girl's basket from her to ease her load. He debated pulling her over to the bench, not sure if she wanted some time to get herself ready, or if she needed to just get things over with before her anxiety spiraled out of control.
"Mhm," Wren nodded, "lemon c-cake and... buttercream frosting."
"Those sound delicious, sweetheart," Jake reassured her, giving her hand that he still held a light squeeze. "What do you think, chicky? You ready to head in? Ari's gonna wait for us inside this time," he explained, not wanting anything to come as a surprise. "We can go in just the two of us, get our shoes off, that sort of thing. You can have a look around inside- we tried to tidy the place up as best we could," he chuckled lightly, hoping his carefree demeanor might help ease poor thing's relentless worries.
Wide-eyed gaze traveling up the now familiar path to the house, Wren forced down a swallow, nodding. "S-sure, that's alright," she hummed in feeble agreeance. Trying to take her response as a good sign, Jake smiled hopefully as he began to lead the girl in the right direction.
Their walk across the worn gravel footpath was slow, but at least it was something. Jake could sense the internal battle occurring in his friend's mind as she kept her gaze trapped warily on the front porch as they approached, barely willing to blink as if she expected something might jump out at any moment to ambush her. Holding steadily onto her hand, he murmured all the soft words of encouragement he could think of as they made their way, step by step. "Doin' just fine, honey. There's no rush; take your time..." "You're bein' so brave- I'm so proud of you, cutie..." "Look at that, we're almost to the porch! You're doin' so good, sweet thing. Just a little bit further..."
When the pair finally made it to the door, Jake was surprised a bit when Wrenley paused and looked up at him. Eyes wide with the most darling sense of disbelief, her voice swelled a bit as she cooed, "Look Jakey, m-made it!"
Raising his brow in helpless adoration, the blonde-haired man could feel his heart melting in his chest at the sweet girl's excited words. "That's right sweetie, look at how brave you were," he crooned softly, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "How're you feelin', buggy? Think you're okay to go inside?"
Appearing to muster up her courage with a deep breath in through her nose, Wren nodded. Raising up ever-so-slightly on the balls of her feet, she peered in through the storm door before her, her expression settling a bit as she took in what she could see of the home's interior. From that point, some of the living room was visible beyond the entryway; it all seemed ordinary-looking enough. "Think I-I can do it," she mumbled softly, her voice small yet laced with a bit of hopefulness.
At that point, it was going better than Jake could have hoped for. Grinning at his friend's response, he nodded, encouraging her, "Go ahead and open up the door then, honey."ย 
The girlโ€™s hand shook as she raised it to take the doorโ€™s handle, twisting as gently as she could to release its latch. Her attentive eyes widened slightly as she breathed in the mild air of the home, seeming to find some small sense of comfort in its scent. Jake simply watched as she gazed forward; after a few moments, he realized she might need a bit more encouragement to keep moving. โ€œCโ€™mon sunshine, watch the step up,โ€ he told her gently as he entered first, still guiding her by the hand.ย 
Wren seemed to be almost on her tiptoes as she followed her friend in, peering around curiously as he closed the door behind both of them. Jakeโ€™s heart broke a little in his chest as he watched her careful movements, recognizing her attempts to make as little noise and fuss as possible. She was the same way in the garden; it was particularly noticeable when the two were first getting to know each other. Over time she was able to loosen up somewhat, but that cautious, tentative nature never seemed to leave her entirely. It seemed like she was worried about taking up too much space, too much time, too much of anything. Seeing this pattern of behavior continue, Jake couldn't help but wonder what or who might have made her feel so guilty for simply existing.
Wrenโ€™s eyes scanned the home from left to right as they stood there in the entryway. From the hallwayโ€™s entrance, to the living room, over to the kitchen, past the office doors, and finally to Jake, she was able to at least conclude that the stranger she was so nervous to meet was nowhere in sight. Once she had had a chance to survey her surroundings, she seemed to relax ever so slightly. Jake smiled gently at her as her gaze came back over to meet his. โ€œSee? Youโ€™re safe. Nothing scary,โ€ he hummed.
โ€œNothing scary,โ€ she repeated. โ€œY-your house is so pretty, Jakey. So warm- and comfy.โ€
Jakeโ€™s face softened at her words. โ€œThank you, sweetheart. Iโ€™m so glad you think so. Oh- and look who decided to come say hi,โ€ he cooed as a little black figure appeared in the entryway to the hall, letting out a faint meow at the sight of the new guest.ย 
Wrenโ€™s eyes lit up at the sight of the cat, letting out a small gasp as she greeted him politely, โ€œOh, h-hello Mr. Socks. Itโ€™s very nice to meet you.โ€ย 
To the pairโ€™s surprise, at the shy girlโ€™s words, the cat came right up to Wren without a second thought. Rubbing his face gently against her legs, he wove himself around her a few times, a warm pur sounding from his chest as he did so. Jake raised his brow at the catโ€™s unusual behavior. โ€œOh my, looks like he found his new best friend. He must really like you, honey. He usually wonโ€™t go anywhere near strangers.โ€
Leaning down a bit, Wren offered the creature her hand. He sniffed it for a few moments before giving a signal of approval by pressing his face right up against her fingertips, earning a soft giggle from the girl. As she gave him a few scratches behind his ears, which he leaned into with great pleasure, Jake only grew more amazed at her ability to win the little animal over with such ease. He wasnโ€™t a very social cat, and never before had he been willing to even come close to an unknown visitor. It almost seemed like he felt just as Jake did about Wren; there was something that drew him to her.ย 
After familiarizing himself with the friendly girl for another few moments, Socks turned and padded off back into the house, disappearing over into the kitchen. Setting down the wicker basket, Jake finally felt safe to let go of Wren's hand, brushing his hair back from his face as he asked, โ€œWell, what dโ€™you say we get our shoes off and head into the kitchen?โ€ Earning a nod to his suggestion, he bent down, taking to unlacing his boots. Wren followed suit, lowering herself to undo the buckles on her Mary Janes. Slipping them off each foot one by one, she carefully set them next to the small bench against the wall before standing back upright.ย 
In those few moments, a figure had appeared through the glass of one of the study doors. As it opened with a creak, Jake was caught off guard by a frightened yelp coming from his friend as she jumped back in surprise. โ€œOh, hey-โ€ but his words came too late. As his husband watched from several feet away with a worried look, Wren stood frozen for only a moment before beginning to crumple down into herself, pressed up against the corner between the wall and the bench beside the door.ย Before either of the men could do anything to stop it, it seemed the situation was dissolving right before their eyes.
โ€œOh sweetie- okay,โ€ Jake tried, โ€œokay, itโ€™s alright. Here, letโ€™s-โ€ Stepping towards the girl, his heart ached as she ducked behind him, attempting to hide away from the other man who stood over by the office. Wren reached out with shaking hands, which the blonde quickly took into his own. โ€œHey sweet girl, youโ€™re okay- oh honey,โ€ he frowned as he watched the poor thing collapsing into a state of pure panic.ย 
โ€œOh hey, Iโ€™m sorry. I didnโ€™t mean-โ€ Ari attempted to apologize, only causing the little one to flinch back harder at the sound of his voice. Cheeks flooding with tears, Wren seemed entirely too terrified to form words. All she could do was cower behind Jake and cry.ย 
The two men were struggling to handle the situation; it seemed it was yet another instance of poor timing on Ariโ€™s part. Smoothing his hair back in worry, Jake did his best to hold onto his friend, trying to think of a way to bring her back down to a manageable state. During his pause of thought, it didnโ€™t take long for Wren to begin scrambling to find an exit. Eyes darting towards the door, she lunged before Jake could say anything, but he was able to catch her as he stood between her and the handle. She collapsed pathetically against him, the two of them sinking down to their knees as she sobbed into his white t-shirt.
โ€œWren, sweetheart- hey,โ€ Jake hummed, bringing a hand up to smooth over her hair as his other arm held her up against him. โ€œYou gotta breathe for me, bubba. Just breathe, youโ€™re okay,โ€ he tried to best to convince her. As hard as it was to hold her there as she struggled against his embrace, he knew it wouldnโ€™t help any to let her run. It broke his heart to see her so distraught, but he still hoped somehow that there might be some room for trust to be built amidst the profound fear.ย 
โ€œP-please,โ€ she sniffled, โ€œpleaseโ€ฆ n-n-noโ€ฆโ€ It was the weakest Jake had ever heard her, her broken words barely distinguishable through her sobs. Taking a brief look back over at Ari, Jake tried his best to not appear helpless as he held the poor girl upright. Sympathy and understanding shone across the doctor's face as he watched the pair, his eyes connecting with his husbandโ€™s as they shared a glance of mutual pity. As slowly as he could, Ari took a few steps towards the two, wanting to give Wren all the time she needed in the safety of her trusted friendโ€™s arms before approaching and invading their space.ย 
โ€œYouโ€™re okay, honey. Iโ€™m here, Jakeyโ€™s here with you,โ€ the younger man crooned, rubbing tender circles across the girlโ€™s back as she cried. โ€œYouโ€™re safe, darlinโ€™. I got you, just try and breathe for me, chicky. Big breaths, youโ€™re alright.โ€
Inching up just a few more feet, Ari paused as he reached the step up from the sunken living roomโ€™s carpeted floor to the hardwood of the entryway. Glancing over with the gentlest of expressions, he lowered himself to the ground as well, hoping it might help him appear less intimidating. When she peeked around Jakeโ€™s larger form, Wrenโ€™s sobs only worsened at the sight of the older man now closer than he was before. As she met his gaze for the first time, Ari was somewhat startled to see how deep the fear ran through her darkened eyes. She wore a look of distrust he had never seen on anyone before, not even the most severely traumatized patients he had encountered back during his practicing years, and that set off loud alarms as to what kind of situation he and Jake could really have on their hands. Hoping to help his partner start easing the poor thing back down, the brunette began to murmur softly, โ€œHey, shhhhโ€ฆโ€ The girlโ€™s head ducked at the sound of his voice, her little face tucking back into her friendโ€™s shirt as he continued to rub her back soothingly.
โ€œWrenleyโ€ฆ cโ€™mon, sweet thing,โ€ Jake tried gently, pulling back just far enough to search for her avoidant gaze.
Unwilling to look him in the eyes, Wren shrunk even further at the shoulders, appearing as though she was doing her best to simply melt into the floor and disappear completely. โ€œP-please Jakey,โ€ was all she could choke out once more.ย 
โ€œโ€˜Pleaseโ€™ what, honey? How can I help, sweetheart?โ€ Jake crooned in response.
โ€œP-pleaseโ€ฆโ€ Her voice trailed off as she seemed to be searching for the right words, acceptable ones as she tugged on the blondeโ€™s hands pleadingly. โ€œS-so scary, please Jakeyโ€ฆโ€
โ€œWhyโ€™s it scary, bubba? Can you help me understand?โ€ he murmured as he brought a hand up to brush back the little one's hair from her face, earning a weak whimper and wince as she trembled beneath his touch. โ€œWanna help you, darlinโ€™. Wanna make it feel not so scary, can you tell me more? Let me help you, sweet girl. Just wanna help."
Bottom lip wobbling as the man did his best to coax more information out of her, Wren snuck another glance over at Ari before finally bringing her teary gaze up to meet the blondeโ€™s. Jake could hardly handle seeing the distress overflowing from the girlโ€™s baby blues; it took everything in him not to wrap her up safe in his arms and give in to her every broken plea. โ€œS-so scary,โ€ she repeated, earning an understanding nod from Jake as he encouraged her with his eyes to say more, โ€œs-scaryโ€ฆ gonnaโ€ฆ please, heโ€™sโ€ฆ sโ€™gonna hurt so b-bad, Jakey.โ€
Both of the men's hearts dropped to the pits of their stomachs at the poor thing's admission of her true fears. With the wind nearly knocked out of him, Jake found himself having to fight off his own tears as his friend's words processed in his mind. Furrowing his brow, he smoothed the girl's hair back once more as he dared to stare her straight in the face. His voice came out weakly, "Wrenley, honey..." It was almost unbearable to look at her, those big, scared eyes filled with such a haunting sense of desperation and need. In that moment, Jake could run from it no further; he had no choice but to accept that someone had hurt his sweet little bird enough to make her this way.
From his safe several feet back, Ari was just as devastated at the progression of Wren's episode as his husband. Though of course he had the instinctual urge to give the poor girl all the comfort he could fathom, he knew that he needed to wait and let her seek it from where she was already comfortable. It was more than difficult; he was a softhearted, nurturing man in nature. But he knew his premature intervention would likely only make things worse, and so as much as it pained him, he simply rested his weight back as he knelt there, sharing a sorrowful yet confirming glance with Jake when he looked over.
"Sweet girl..." the younger man cooed, his voice low as he tried to find somewhere to begin his reasoning. "What d'you mean, 'hurt?' No one's gonna hurt you, cutie. You're safe- I promise you're safe here, sweetie."
Eyes falling back to the floor, Wren withered as she searched for words to explain herself, seeming wary of both the men's expressions of shock and alarm. "Just..." Wearing a heartbreaking look of something close to shame, she continued, "b-big. Strong, if he... gonna... j-just..."
Feeling guilty as his friend struggled to communicate her worries, Jake nodded gently. He could somewhat understand what she meant; Ari was, after all, about as close to a real-life giant as a man could get. With whatever sort of fight-or-flight she was being thrown into at the mere presence of an unknown person, the same kind of trauma response she had collapsed into when first meeting Jake, it made sense that the older man was presenting a much greater challenge than he had, himself. "I know, honey. I know it's so hard," the blonde murmured, "but I promise you, Ari would never do anything to hurt you. If he tried, I wouldn't let him- but he just wouldn't, chicky. He really, really wouldn't. No one's gonna hurt you here, Wrenley. In this house, with me and Ari, you're safe. You're always gonna be safe, sweetheart." With one of his hands wrapped around her smaller one, he gently linked their pinkies, giving a light squeeze to seal his promise.
Thinking it might be an okay time to try and start providing some reassuring words of his own, Ari nodded sincerely at his husband's words. "Wrenley? Honey, can you listen to me?" he hummed softly, trying not to deflate as the girl's tears once again worsened at his interruption. She tucked herself away into Jake's arms at the stranger's words, prompting the younger man to begin rubbing her back once more as she shook and wept helplessly. "Jake's right, sweetheart. I'm not gonna hurt you; I would never. You're such a special girl- you're Jake's best friend. Did you know that?"
Remaining hidden in the safety of her friend's arms, Wren managed a sniffle, unable to give a response to the man's attempts. Hoping her maintained state might be a better sign than coming undone any further, Ari decided to continue. "You've been such a big help in the garden, and we're always so delighted by the treats you bring us. You're the best baker I've ever met; I'm sure Jake feels the same way."
"Sure do," the blonde added encouragingly as he rocked the small girl in his arms. "Maybe sometime we can have you over to bake; we've got a big kitchen with plenty of space, and Ari got me some new kitchenware for Christmas. You can show us whatever magic it is that makes your goodies so yummy."
"That would be so fun," Ari nodded in agreement, trying to smile through his sadness in hopes of lifting the poor thing's sunken spirits. "You know all those little cards you made? The ones you put on your baggies with the pretty ribbons- the ones that said 'Mr. Ari?'" That seemed to catch Wren's attention as she lifted her head up just the tiniest bit, though she still stayed wrapped up in the safety of Jake's embrace. It was a small, subtle movement, but it was enough; seeing her respond in even just the slightest way to his efforts filled Ari with hopefulness that he might finally be getting somewhere. "I keep them all in a little stack on my desk," the man revealed gently, adding, "Every time I see them, I think about you and how special you are to Jakey, and to me. I could never hurt you, angel. You're too important to us; we care so much about you."
"So much, buggy. Ari's right; you're our special girl," Jake cooed. Praying he wasn't just imagining it, he could almost feel the little one starting to relax the slightest bit in his arms. He hoped more than anything that their soothing words were getting through to her; both of them did.
Softening his expression as much as he could, Ari was similarly picking up on small signs of progress. With faint optimism present in his voice, he asked, "Sweetheart? Do you think you could try and look at me?" It broke his heart to receive a doubtful whimper from the small girl, though he just hummed mildly, "I know, honey. I know it's hard, but you're bein' so brave- you know that? Jakey and I are so proud of you," he commended. "You made it all the way in; I know that must've been so difficult, and now you're stayin' here with us; you're doin' so well, angel. So, so well."
As the doctor crooned his praises, it was visible to both him and his partner that his efforts were slowly but surely working. Now more than anything, Wren was simply slumped against Jake, no longer trying to run. Bringing his hand up to stroke softly over her light golden hair, Jake continued his rocking motions, the feeling of her small body wrapped in his filling his heart with such a sense of pride and love.
"There you go, sweet girl," Ari murmured, the sight before him now seeming a million times more manageable than it was even just a few minutes ago. "You're okay, Wrenley. You're safe, see?" Softening his voice even further, he dared to ask again, "Do you think you could looking over here, honey? You did it before, remember? Just wanna show you nothing bad will happen, darlin'. Wanna show you it's safe, d'you think we could just give it a try?"
Keeping his movements as subtle as he could, Jake shifted their positioning to make it easier for the girl to look over at the man if she chose. There was a period of silent pause, both of them eagerly holding their breath as they waited to see what the little one might do. And to both of their amazement, after gathering up all the courage she could into her tiny trembling frame, Wrenley finally lifted her head up ever so slightly to gaze bashfully over at Ari through a fresh veil of tears.
As her deep blue eyes met his own, the man thought he had never felt so touched by another human being in his life. It wasn't the kind of affection he had for Jake; it was something completely different and new. It was the way a person might look at a newborn fawn when seeing one for the first time. There was such a profound feeling of tenderness, along with a heaviness to the situation that couldn't be ignored. As he knelt there, face-to-face with the girl at last, there was an unmistakable sense that he was cradling her entire fragile world in his hands. Her vulnerability shone through her eyes; she had let him in the door. There was no turning back. And in that moment, all Ari wanted to do was prove to her that he would do just as Jake had done, that he would protect her heart and treat it with the care it deserved.
Relief and compassion washed over his face as he gave her his softest smile, humming, "Hi there, pretty girl. See? Completely safe." Resting his hands on his knees, his heart all but melted as she gave him the teeniest of nods as Jake rubbed her back again proudly, mumbling sweet words of praise in her ear.
Catching notice of the little yellow head poking out of the girl's dress pocket, Ari's smile widened as he asked, "Is that your ducky, sweetheart? Jakey's told me all about him- I've heard he's quite the little gardener, just like you. Does he help you bake, too?" He didn't mind in the slightest if to any outsider it might seem silly; he was more than happy to treat the stuffed animal like a living being if it might help his new friend feel more at ease.
Surprising the couple once more with her bravery, Wren offered a mild nod. "I didn't know he likes to bake," Jake played along, glancing lovingly down at the little figure. "You'll have to come to our baking day, Ducky! It'll be a party in the kitchen!"
"It's very nice to meet you, Ducky," Ari hummed adoringly, giving plushie a gentle wave. In a moment the men both found all too precious, Wren's little fingers came up to find one of the duck's wings, having him give a wave back to the doctor.
Jake finally felt safe enough to relax in his embrace of the girl, turning to shoot Ari a triumphant smile. The older man smiled back softly; there was an incredible sense of calm that washed over the three friends as they sat there in the entryway of the home, seemingly past the worst of the group effort. Resting the side of her little head against Jake's chest, Wren continued to look over at his husband, the storminess in her eyes receding at last.
"You wanna tell Ari what you brought?" the boy asked his friend gently, earning an intrigued look from the brown-haired man as he nodded encouragingly. "She made 'em special, just for you," the blonde gushed as he motioned towards the basket with his head. "She knows you love lemon."
"I do; that's my favorite," Ari murmured with a smile.
Blinking sheepishly, Wren's voice was as soft as ever as she told him, "M-made cupcakes, sir. Lemon cake a-and... and buttercream frosting; it's my Nana's special recipe." Ari hummed approvingly, finding her mildly old-fashioned manners to be rather endearing; she was just too sweet, exactly as Jake had described her.
"That sounds so special, darlin'. We've got plates and drinks in the kitchen- what d'you say we go give them a try? I can't wait to finally give my compliments directly to the baker." After pausing to look up at Jake, who gave her a reassuring nod, Wren nodded at the suggestion. "Perfect. Here, I'll show you the way."
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โ† last chapter | series masterlistย | next chapter (coming soon!) โ†’
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violentdelightsproductions ยท 8 days ago
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Tales of Halloween (vol. 3 The Dark Angel Edition)
Alright everyone, it's now October 31st. During the spookiest time of the year there are a few guidelines all ghosts and goblins should follow.
Always stay on sidewalks
Never go into a stranger's house
Always hand out candy to trick-or-treaters.
Always check your candy.
Always wear a costume.
NEVER blow out a Jack O'Lantern before midnight.
Always respect the Dead.
NEVER take down your decorations before November 1st
NEVER harm the innocent
It might sound simple enough but the rules must never be broken. You know which evil spirit, powerful witch or entity you might offend if you don't. And I know that's it's hard to believe that supernatural forces are at play, but don't forget. Tonight's the night that the between this world and the other world is almost non-existent. But fear not. Sometimes a simple candy can solve the problem, You do your Trick, you get your Treat. I hope you all stay safe until the morning of November 1st.
Happy Halloween *evil laughter*
Find our new Halloween videos and edits here! Our Halloween edits throughout the years!
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openheartfanfics ยท 11 months ago
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Newly Added Fics
Dec 9 - 15, 2023ย ย 
๐ŸŽญ Angst ย |ย  ๐Ÿฆš Angsty Fluffย  |ย  ๐Ÿ›ธ AU ย | ย โ˜ Fluff ย | ย โ™ฅ NSFW ย | ย ๐Ÿ“š Series ย | ย ๐Ÿ“ท Edit ย | ย ๐Ÿ“ฑ TextFicย  |ย  โ“‚ Mature
Bryce x F!MC
Itโ€™s a date. - @hannabanana-6 โ˜
Casey gets ready for her first official date with Bryce. [Date]
Itโ€™s over - @hannabanana-6 ๐ŸŽญ
Casey and Bryce argue over him pushing her away.
The hangover - @hannabanana-6 โ˜
Just random hangover fluff.
Thunderstorm - @chocopeppermintcake ๐Ÿฆš
Casey has a bad day at work. [Hurt/Comfort]
You are in love - @hannabanana-6 โ˜
Bryce realises his feelings for Casey. An addition to the wedding in Open Heart book 3. [3.11]
Bryce x M!MC
Halloweenย - @mydemonsdrivealimoย ๐Ÿ“š
[extended: wip] A collection of moments throughout Jensenโ€™s life, focused on his struggles and accomplishments.
Part 1
Part 2
Ethan x F!MC
Dangerous Gamesย -ย @zealouscanonindeer ๐Ÿ“šโ™ฅ
[extended: wip] If you win, good. If you lose, even better.
Part 6
I gave you my heart - @coffeeheartaddict2 โ™ฅ๐ŸŽ„
It is Christmas time and Ethan finds himself alone for the holidays. An unexpected visit leads to a change in status. Feat. F!OC [Young Ethan]
Not a rookie anymore - @hannabanana-6 ๐ŸŽญ
Ethan gets back from the Amazon. [Broke Up]
Paws of Love - @amortentiaopenheart ๐Ÿ›ธ
Jenner takes a liking to a stranger.
Talk is Cheap - @cariantha ๐ŸŽญ
What would have been the outcome if Sawyer had discovered that she was pregnant whilst Ethan was in the Amazon?
Part 1
Turning Red: A Holiday Tale - @jerzwriter โ˜๐ŸŽ„
The usual mayhem ensues when Kaycee and her friends head out to do some holiday shopping at a local mall. She finally finds the perfect gift for Ethan. Feat. OH Gang
Under The Mistletoe - @liaromancewriter โ˜๐ŸŽ„
Ethan Ramsey is not one to kiss anyone under the mistletoe, but heโ€™s willing to make an exception just once.
When life has other plansย -ย @coffeeheartaddict2ย ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ›ธ
[extended: wip] A competition has commenced for the interns at Edenbrook hospital. A horrid first day leads to an unexpected test of a new machine but what is Dr. Ethan Ramsey hiding?
CH 4: Crime and Punishment
Jenner Ramsey
Paws of Love - @amortentiaopenheart ๐Ÿ›ธ
Jenner takes a liking to a stranger.
Platonic / OH Gang
Turning Red: A Holiday Tale - @jerzwriter โ˜๐ŸŽ„
The usual mayhem ensues when Kaycee and her friends head out to do some holiday shopping at a local mall. She finally finds the perfect gift for Ethan. Feat. OH Gang
Rafael x F!MC
We Belong Togetherย -ย @rafasgirl23415ย ๐Ÿ“š
[extended: wip] Itโ€™s the end of intern year. Casey and Rafael are ready to start the next phase of their relationship.
CH 25: A Blast From The Past
CH 26: Remembrance
Tobias x F!MC
One Step๏ฟฝ๏ฟฝ - @jerzwriter ๐Ÿฆš
It's a month after the chemical attack at Edenbrook; Casey leaves her apartment for therapy, and her recently reunited friend, Tobias, has been playing chauffeur.
_
SUBMIT OPEN HEART FICS & WRITERS HERE
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code1r15 ยท 1 year ago
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AUs rotting my brain lately
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lilyoffandoms ยท 10 months ago
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2023 Choices Fic Recap
Saw @aallotarenunelma list of 2023 fics and thought it was such a cool idea so I had to steal it. Here are all the fics/drabbles I wrote for the Choices fandom this past year (excluding drabbles I sent as asks).
Here is to another beautiful year of trying to write writing and sharing! May your new year find you with all the time, all the motivation, and all the words to write all the stories your heart contains!!
January
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)
Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele)
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)
February Kiss (Tyril x Maiele)
ID Drabble (Cas x Saini) for aallotarenunelma
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)
LoA Drabble (Gabe x Lex)
Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele + family)
TPA Drabble (Rowan x Elliot)
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)
Pick Your Poison (Arthur/Artura x Guinevere, Lancelot x Guinevere)
Regret (Arthur x Guinevere, Lancelot x Guinevere)
Blades Drabble (Mal x Daenarya, Tyril x Maiele)
Guinevere Drabble (Lancelot x Guinevere)
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)
Blades Drabble (Mal x Daenarya + boys) for storyofmychoices
Guinevere Drabble (Lancelot x Guinevere)
February
OPH Drabble (Tobias x Casey, Bryce x Olivia, Ethan x Merida)
TRR Drabble (Hana x Eclipsa) for noesapphic
Nightbound Drabble (Nik x Alex) for ladylamrian
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)
OPH Drabble (Bryce x Jensen) for mydemonsdrivealimo
Nightbound Drabble (Nik x Alex) for ladylamrian
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)
March
Doctor, Doctor (Bryce x Kyrie)
RCD Drabble (Thomas x Alex) for storyofmychoices
OPH Drabble (Bryce x Olivia) for storyofmychoices
Blades Drabble (Maiele & Daenarya)
Blades Drabble (Mal x Daenarya) for storyofmychoices Blades Poem (Mal x Daenarya) for storyofmychoices
RCD Drabble (Thomas x Alex) for storyofmychoices
April
WtD Drabble (Troy x Saeed)
most of the month was spent on a personal project
โ€œDoes not the human decorum suggest you sit opposite side the table?โ€ he laughed merrily.
โ€œBut I do so like my own skin too much to risk being at the disadvantage of having my back to the door,โ€ she smiled a knowing smile at him.
โ€œThen you must be the one to protect our skins both for I will do as decorum requires and not draw ourselves undue attention.โ€ Teigran looked them both over and her lips quirked into a smile again. โ€œYour point is understood,โ€ he laughed. โ€œLess noticeable than an elf and a dwarf sitting to sup in a human town.โ€
May
spent this month working on a personal project
"Tell me the secrets you require,โ€ he leaned in to whisper.
His face was bright and flushed from the warm room, and she expected, a bit from the excitement of a mission and the promise of more.
June
spent this month on the same personal project
Sleep came fitfully that night. The memories of her coming to the surface. Always so kind. Always so demanding. Even in childhood.
She tried to bring those memories to the surface in hopes that she would speak to her again in dreams and give her more to go on. It was in vain, Teirgan knew this, but she needed more to go on.
July
Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele, Mal x Daenarya)
Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele, Mal x Daenarya)
August
11 Drabbles (multiple pairings & books) for the participants of the August Challenge)
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)
ID Drabble (Kalen & Saini)
September
CoP AU Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel)
Blades Drabble (Maiele & Daenarya)
WtD Drabble (Troy x Saeed)
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Sofia) with trappedinfanfictionโ€™s MC
OPH Drabble (Bryce x Olivia, Tobias x Casey, Ethan x Merida)
October
Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele)
Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele)
Nightbound Drabble (Nik x Alex) for ladylamrian
Blades Drabble (Maiele & gang)
Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele, Mal x Daenarya)
Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele, Mal x Daenarya, Daenarya x Maiele, Mal x Tyril)
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel, Luke x Ruby)
Blades Drabble (Maiele & OC) for storyofmychoices
WtD Drabble (Troy x Saeed)
Blades Drabble (Nia x Astra) for stars-are-within-me
CoP Drabble (Trystan x MC) for stars-are-within-me
November
Mal x Daenarya for storyofmychoices
Tobias x Casey for jerzwriter
Aerin x Raine for oh-so-youre-a-nerd
Thomas x Jackie for peonyblossom
Blades Drabble (Aerin x MC) for oh-so-youre-a-nerd and baldwinboy5ive
Blades Drabble (Aerin x Raine) for oh-so-youโ€™re-a-nerd
December
CoP Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel) and Blades Drabble (Tyril x Maiele)
CoP & LoA Crossover Drabble (Trystan x Gabriel, Aislinn x Lex x Gabe)
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