#kathi rolls near me

[storiesfromafan]

Insecurities - Benny x Plus!Size Reader

A/N: I feel it was time I gave writing for a plus size reader a go. And Benny gives me the feeling he'd love a plus size girl 😅

Can say this was a small challenge. As when I write for a reader i usually lean for them to be smaller/thin. And i can honestly say I am a fat girly, who wishes I was how I described the plus size reader in this haha.

Hopefully this isn't too bad. I'm already working on a follow up, which will be steamy/smuty 😂😅

Also forgive if this feels like my other one-shots were the reader meets Benny 😅

Warning/s: reader is plus size, reader is down on themselves, low self-esteem(?), spelling/grammer mistakes

You’d always been treated differently due to your thicker build. As a teenager your frame was always different to the girls around you that were petite and slender, while you were curvier and stockier. Coming into womanhood you found you were thick, and not fat. With dresses you could blend in better, but jeans and slacks always showcased your wide hips, thick thighs but accentuated your smaller waist.

During your school days the boys, which is what they were, didn’t bat an eyelash at you. Opting for the smaller girls. With age, you found a fair number of men interested in you. But it never panned out. Either it was your own insecurities that held you back, or their insecurities arose, usually from their male friends making fun of you, or the guy for dating you.

Having moved to Chicago, you were lucky to find a place to live, becoming roommates with an interesting woman named Kathy. At first, you were unsure of her. As she seemed like a lot, but after weeding through her way of talking and her no beating around the bush approach, she grew on you. A week after moving in was when Vandals, men from a motorcycle club and their old ladies, started to hang out at her house.

Work had been stressful and disheartening, from the helping treat the sick and injured, to the few losses of life in the hospital. And knowing this, Kathy was persistent on taking you out tonight to Grand and Division. Not your typical haunt, but it was nice of her to include you. So with a little twist of your arm, you agreed to go with her. You looked forward to a few beers and being a wallflower, because rarely any man wanted you.

Arriving at the bar, you were greeted to the smell and sight of smoke floating around the bar. The space filled with bodies, but mostly men. Who seemed to notice Kathy and you, as you crossed the room to the tables at the back, you were surprised to have your behind slapped and grabbed. Of course Kathy said that was normal for these animals. She said to just ignore it as best you could. That was the worst they’d do, otherwise Johnny would have words with them. You figured this Johnny had to be high up or the head of the club.

Soon you both were joined by other Vandal women, which even brought you both beers. They were Betty, Gale and Debbie. They were warm in welcoming you, and had a blunt kindness to them. Just like how it had been with Kathy, you found them refreshing. A comfortable conversation surrounded the five of you. Each woman telling you an outrageous, yet true story. You were laughing and having a fun in no time with them.

You sat back, taking a moment to look around the bar as you took a sip from the bottle. The pool table caught your attention, and the group of men huddled around it in conversation and a game. You saw Benny for the first time standing with Cal, deep in conversation and taking a drag of his cigarette. His messy blonde locks catching every so often in the low light. He was pretty but rugged, like James Dean but with more facial hair. His muscular arms on display as the sleeves of his t-shirt were rolled up. He oozed sex appeal without trying.

It was stupid to stare at Mr Good-looking, but how couldn’t you? That was when you noticed the other women near him, doing exactly what you were doing, ogling at him. You didn’t stand a chance against most of them. They were thin and pretty. You couldn’t compete against them.

“Um, bathroom?” You asked, feeling the need to escape. Even for a few minutes.

Kathy gave you a look, which you just smiled at her, before she pointed towards the back. “Just past the bar, down the hall".

Nodding your head you got up and made your way to the women’s restroom. Once away from the people and majority of the noise, you took a few deep breathes. Settling your fast beating heart. Sometimes taking a moment is all you need to quiet your head. Looking over yourself, taking in the casual beehive do Kathy did for you. Paired with your light make up, you fixed your lipstick before straightening out the sleeveless button up shirt you were wearing. Along with dark jeans and flats, Kathy’s suggestion so that you’d fit in better. Though you wished you’d wore a dress, which would hide your body better.

But when Kathy said you looked perfect, you believed her. That woman always said the honest truth, even if it hurt. Exiting the restroom you straightened up before heading back to your table. You put on a smile as you took your seat. Questioning what you’d missed. Like those insecurities of yours never arose.

What you had missed was the moment Benny had seen you, walking back to your table. He was lining up his shot when you came into view. At first, he had seen your (colour) hair and beautiful face, before he noticed your body. Your curves were all he could look at. Your waist smaller which lead to your shapely hips and thick thighs. You had a womanly body that most men craved. And Benny was no different. When you smiled, he almost accidentally took his shot, but was able to stop himself. Fixing himself, Benny took the shot, sinking a ball and then moved to his next shot. All the while taking glances at you, the one he now had his sights on.

Benny had to play the game out. But he made sure to keep an eye on you. He watched how you drank your beer, how you laughed and smiled. You looked so sweet. But he chalked that up to this being your first time at Grand and Division. Kathy had told him about her roommate, that you were a nurse. How considerate and kind you were to her. As well as the ideal roommate. But not once did Kathy mention your heavenly body. The moment the game was over, Benny was off to introduce himself to you.

Kathy and Betty saw him before any of the other women. When he dropped into a backwards seat next to you, his arms crossing over the back of the seat, his stormy blue eyes were on you, and only you. And you were surprised to see Benny beside you. The way he smiled at you could have had you a gooey mess on the floor. But you kept it together, as best you could.

“Hey" came his gruff, deep voice. “I'm Benny".

You blinked a few times, trying to wrap your head around this gorgeous man sitting next to you and staring at you. “H-hi...”

The women around you all shared an amused look. Accompanied by a small laugh. “This is (Y/N), my roommate" Kathy informed for you.

Your face flushed as you turned to look at Kathy, who wore a smirk on her lips. She found your lack of words funny. As you generally never have an issue talking. But I guess put a good-looking man in front of you, and you are like the rest of the women who get tongue tied. Benny then noticed the other women, giving them a greeting. Yet his eyes landed back on you. He knew that the women around you knew why he was here. When he saw something, he liked, Benny would always come around.

Yet, you seemed nervous. And opting to look at the other women or your beer. Benny chalked it up to being shy. But really it was your self-doubt. Such as, why would Benny be interested in you? No man openly wants someone like you. Despite your attempts to not look at him, you kept taking little glances. Which Benny noticed, and would smile at. He even began to strike up a conversation with you, with the help of Kathy.

She had seen it coming. Kathy had seen the way Benny looked at you when he approached the table. And she was all for this pairing, so long as he didn’t hurt you. Kathy didn’t want to lose the best roommate she’s had, nor a dear friend who was like a sister. Plus she knew you needed someone. Benny could be that someone. He might look rough, but he had a good heart and cared about those close to him. You would be in safe hands.

“Wait" you piped up during Kathy telling you about Benny's recent run in with the law. “You’re the Benjamin Cross that caused the police chase through town!?” You were so surprised.

Benny smirked, “yeah".

You sat back in your chair, eyes locked with his. “Do you know how crazy that was? It was all the nurses were talking about for days!”

He chuckled. “Yeah”.

“Don’t be fooled by his bad boy nature" commented Kathy with a laugh. “Benny’s one of the good ones. He just can’t think right sometimes".

The other women laughed, but agreed he was a decent guy. Soon both Betty and Gale excused themselves, their partners were beckoning them over. And then Debbie left to see a few other girls nearby. Leaving just the three of you. With less people you felt more self-conscious. But you pushed through it. When you and Kathy had finished your beers, Benny offered to get the next round. Reluctantly leaving you to do so. As soon as he was gone you turned to Kathy with a worried face.

“What is he doing?” You quietly asked her.

She smiled. “What do ya think? He’s flirtin’ with you!”

You shook your head. “No, that can’t be. Men as good-looking as Benny, don’t go for women like me!”

Your roommate blinked, not believing the words that came out of your mouth. “Like you? (Y/N), you are gorgeous. Any man would be a lucky bustard to get you! And Benny, he knows what he likes. He will always go for it".

You didn’t believe her. How could you? Your track record said otherwise. You sighed. “Kathy, men might want me...but they don’t always want to be seen with me”.

Reaching over, Kathy squeezed your hand. “Trust me. Benny ain’t like the idiots you’ve dated. In fact, the Vandal men aren’t like those idiots. A man will always want to be seen with his woman, trust me".

With one final squeeze, Kathy withdrew her hand. While you were left with some hope, choosing to believe her. Even just a little bit. To be fair, when you entered the bar, you were groped and slapped on the behind, as well as the many looks you got. Maybe there was some truth to her words. These men were rough but they were just that; men. Sure many looked like they needed a good scrub, or had belly’s, they were a stark contrast to the squares and pretty boys you’ve dated.

Benny returned with beers, which he handed to both you and Kathy. You both thanked him, which he waved off. He sat next to you still, those blues of his still on you, while a thousand-watt smile crossed his full lips. The three of you continued to talk, many stories being told by Kathy of Benny and the Vandals. You were amused and laughed at some of the funnier and outrageous things that had happened. Benny defending parts of her stories. You could see their friendship in this moment, and it was nice. Being included felt good.

The night wore on, and the spark between you and Benny seemed to grow. He was so fixed on you, that you couldn’t believe how he ignored the other women around you both. Kathy’s words stuck with you, and you started to really believe in them. Benny moved his arm to rest on the back of your chair as he looked back to both Johnny and Brucie. It looked like they were silently communicating to each other, before he turned back to you with a smile.

“Looks like it’s time" he said with a bright smile.

“Time for what?” You questioned in confusion.

Benny didn’t say a word, just got up and went over to the two men. Leaving you even more confused, you looked to Kathy. She shrugged, not sure herself it seemed. Soon Vandals started to make their way out of the bar, women following with laughter and giddiness. That was when Kathy understood, she got up with her bag before telling you to follow.

“What’s going on Kathy?” You asked crossing the room.

She smiled. “They’re goin' on a ride".

You didn’t fully grasp her answer, but remained quiet and just followed. Exiting the bar you watched as the men took to their bikes, women getting on behind them. You saw Brucie and Gale get on his bike, they looked so comfortable and at ease. Then Johnny and Betty exited the bar, Benny along with them. Johnny looked to you and Kathy, saying something to Benny before leading Betty over to his bike. Benny then found you, watching you as he walked over.

He stopped before you, a small smile on his lips. “Come on sweetheart, let’s go for a ride".

Your heart skipped a beat at the nickname. Before reality sat in, and your insecurities came forth. You on the back of Benny's bike. You with him. You weren’t built to be on a bike. You stepped back from Benny, an awkward laugh leaving your lips while shaking your head.

“O-oh, that’s alright. I’m good” you managed to get out. “You should take Kathy. I’ll just get a cab home".

The smile dropped from his face, Benny's eyes drawing in on you. That was the first time he saw a flash of your self-doubt. And he didn’t like it. You had just as much right to be on the back of his bike, just like any woman. You were perfect in every way. Stepping forward, Benny grabbed your hand and began to pull you towards his bike, but you dug your feet down. Which stopped him. Kathy was doing everything to tell you to go, you’d be fine. But you weren’t sure of it.

Benny moved to stand before you again, never letting go of your hand. “What is it sweetheart? What’s stoppin' ya from riding with me?”

The way he looked at you, eyes honest and pleading. It almost had you tripping over your words, but you managed to quietly say, “wouldn’t I be too heavy for the bike? Wouldn’t I effect the ride?”

Benny couldn’t believe his ears. He figured you were self-conscious but this was more then he thought. Whoever did this to you deserved a serious beating, and he’d gladly put his hand up to do it. Squeezing your hand, Benny leant closer to you, never breaking eye contact.

“Sweetheart, hear me when I say this" he paused, making sure you were indeed listening. “You are perfect the way you are. Leave the bike to me, I want you and your arousing body on my bike. Up against me”. His tone was low and raspy, like Benny was holding himself back.

You blushed, your cheeks feeling warm at his blunt admission. Which no man had ever done before, not like Benny anyways. When you remained silent, he once more began to pull you towards his bike. And this time you let him lead you. Looking back you noticed Kathy wasn’t there, no doubt slipped away while you were caught up with Benny. You did eventually see her on the back of another Vandals bike, and she gave you a bright smile.

Upon reaching his bike, Benny let go of your hand before swinging his leg over the bike. He made quick work of starting it up, the roar of it coming to life made you jump, not expecting such a loud noise. Once ready, Benny looked to you, offering his hand. You hesitated a moment, before throwing caution and those damn insecurities to the wind. As soon as your hand touched his did Benny grasp it firmly, his way of saying he’s got you. You swung your leg over before resting behind him. There were cheers and hollering coming from around you. Other Vandals had been watching you both, enthusiastic about Benny's girl.

“Better wrap your arms around me, baby" Benny said with a gentle tone. “Don’t want nothin' happening to you".

Slowly you moved your hands to his waist, before sliding them around to rest against his toned stomach. Benny had to hold back the groan that rose in his throat. Just the feel of your hands against his clothed body was driving him crazy. He moved one of his hands back and grabbed your thigh firmly, he needed a moment to ground himself but he’s been wanting to do that all night. His touch seemed to relax you, and you moved closer. Front pressed against Benny's back. Which didn’t help him any more than before.

“You’ll be the death of me" he muttered to himself.

Pulling away from the curb, Benny followed Jonny with Brucie beside him. Gale shot you an enthusiastic smile and a chuckle. You only blushed more, even moving to press your face into Benny’s back. The denim of his colours rough against your face. But you still found yourself smiling. Picking up speed the group of bikes made their way through town, before hitting the expressway.

You pulled back when you entered the expressway. Looking around and behind you, you were amazed by all the Vandals and their bikes. The awe and amazement hit you in such a great way. The wind in your hair, and Benny's body, felt so good, so freeing. Riding around felt freeing. For it was something you never thought you’d do, and wouldn’t have done if Benny hadn’t been so determined.

The ride felt like forever. And you wouldn’t mind if it never ended. Enjoying the moments with the Vandals and Benny. How he took care of you. His gloved hand reaching back to grab your thigh from time to time, which only made your stomach flip. But it had to come to an end though. Separating from the group, Benny began the journey back to your house. The streets were quiet, the noise of his bike filling it nicely.

Pulling up out the front of your shared house, he cut the engine before putting down the kickstand. Of course he helped you off first, before following suit. Silently you looked at the other. You looked at him in curiosity, while Benny looked like he wanted pull you in close. But he was behaving himself, for now.

“W-well...thanks for that" you said breaking the silence. “And thanks for bringing me home...”

Looking down and then back up, a small smile on Benny’s face he said, “no problem sweetheart. With me, I’d always take care of you".

Your cheeks heated at the double meaning to those words. And the smirk to take over Benny’s face told you he knew it too. He stepped closer, moving some stray hairs from your face. His hand slipping to hold your chin gently. Then Benny leant in, his lips coming in contact with your own. His kiss was soft, closed lipped, just to get a taste. You of course were shocked and surprised, unsure what to do. Pulling back, Benny looked you into the eyes, silently hoping he could do that again.

You didn’t pull away or say a word, your eyes told him all he needed. Leaning back in, Benny’s lips collided with yours again. This time he pressed harder, hand moving to hold your neck. You closed your eyes, taking in this moment, the start of something. Benny’s free hand moved to your waist, pulling you closer. His tongue moving along your bottom lip. Without a thought in your brain, you opened your mouth. His tongue darting in, mapping out its new territory. Your tongues met, caressing the other, all the while Benny held onto you.

Finally he pulled back, you both breathing heavy while taking in oxygen. Slowly your eyes opened, brain trying to process what just happened, and why did it feel so good. Benny watched you, gaging your response to the kiss. His thumb caressing the skin of your neck, hoping to keep this soothed side of you. When you met his gaze, he could see this blank yet content look in your eyes. Which was better than panic or anger. One step closer to the bigger picture, you being his girl. And you would be his, he knew it. Even if he had to fight those insecurities of yours.

[i-didnt-do-1t]

She was waiting at the top of the stairs when Morris half jogged up the last step, a vicious smile on his lips, half shaking out his fist. She stumbled back as he reached the mouth of the hall, near bumping into her in his haste and barely even looking at her when her back inadvertently hit the wall. He was set to ignore her, a girl reporter with no more news paper to write for.

Then she shoved his shoulder, caught him off guard from the side.

“What did you do to him-“

“What the fuck-“

“Don’t be stupid, Pulitzer.”

Oscar’s voice, stern and aggravated bounced off the high ceilings, ornate and carved and so different from the dull metal and wood of the dark basement.

Where Morris’s knuckles were aching and bruised, Oscar’s were bleeding.

Brass knuckles were a double edged sword.

For a moment Katherine faltered, before she stood up a little straighter, shoulders back and chin tipped in a defiance Oscar found breakable.

“What did you do to him.”

“Nothin’ your father ain’t tell us we couldn’t.”

“You’re vile.”

“And gettin’ paid to be.” His eyes glinted. Something mean and enjoying it. “Trust me, Pulitzer. Kelly’s been beggin’ to have the shit kicked outta him.”

“And he knew it was comin’. Coming to your da’s office like this.” Morris intoned, “what, he just thought he was gonna come in here and walk out again? After all the bullshit he’s done?”

“You hurt him.” It was blunt. A statement of fact rather than a question and her voice didn’t waver but that was almost worse because it made Oscar laugh. Riding the high of adrenaline and violence and the feeling of money in his pocket.

“Yeah well, we ain’t just tuck him in.”

Her gaze shot to his knuckles, and then to Morris’s and then back up to him again, gaze flicking rapidly between the two of the them.

“Give me the keys.”

“Nah.”

“Oscar-“

“Oh we on a first name basis now.”

“We will be, when your names are published in the papers. Strike breakers and-“

“In what newspaper, Pulitzer.” Morris sounded bored now, exasperated, like he was over this already and it made her blood steam in her veins.

“I’ll find something.”

“Do that, then.” He rolled a shoulder, flexed his hand once. “Me and os gotta go see your da. We’ll tell him you said hi-“

“Don’t-“

“Try not to get too involved in stuff Kathy, ain’t a girls place, yeah?”

[puppiesandnightlock]

LINK: Last Friday Night

Cowritten with the lovely @livingtobethevillain, who's idea set us off on this road ;-;

Summary: Damian wasn’t one to go out of his way to cause scandals or to give the masses something to gossip over. He tried to distance himself from his family in that aspect. He liked the way his name was kept out of the papers, unlike his father or siblings. It was something he took pride in.

Or something he did take pride in. Because as the saying goes, love makes you stupid. And well, Jon wanted Damian to have fun. Damian had reasoned that a couple drinks wouldn’t hurt. But once Damian had passed the threshold of ‘a couple drinks’ that's when the trouble really started.

TL;DR Damijon + friends go out and party, Damian gets a bit too drunk and everyone thinks this is hilarious

Anyone who knew Damian would know that being caught by the press doing anything “improper” was simply unheard of for him. 

His brothers and father had hundreds of scandals, memes, audios on the internet but surprisingly, even having been brought up in the spotlight, he’d rarely had any.

But of course, Jon had to change that.

There was an awful lot of truth when people say love makes someone stupid, and as much as Damian was loath to admit it, he was as weak to the emotion as anyone, and it had led to many things he’d come to cringe at.

Although, admittedly there hadn’t been any as…spectacular as this one, though.

It was not a special occasion by any means that led to these events, just a meet-up with some friends at a local bar near Met U. They’d parked a few blocks away and were walking down to the entrance, hands swinging between them.

Damian took a deep breath, letting the warm air slide in and out of his lungs before looking at his husband out of the corner of his eye.

“Jonathan, if you have something you’d like to say you are welcome to say it.” Damian said, the corners of his mouth quirking up in amusement.

“Well-I-I just-” Jon stuttered before clearing his throat and gathering himself. 

“I wanted to ask if-well I couldn’t help but notice that you're always the one in the group that stays sober on the nights we go out and I wanted to ask if this time, would you want to be the one to, y’know, party.” Jon rubbed his neck with the hand not intertwined with Damian’s, the other man raising an eyebrow. “This isn’t like-a scheme to get you drunk by the way, I know how it sounds. I just…I want you to have fun.”

Damian's expression softened. “Thank you, love. But you don’t need to worry, okay? I have plenty of fun even when I am off to the side.”

Jon snorts and Damian scowls playfully. 

“Last time we went out you were so high strung that you nearly drop-kicked a guy ‘cause he bumped into me.” Jon laughs.

“He shouldn't have bumped into you if he didn’t want to face the consequences.” Damian responded dryly. 

“Yeah okay,” Jon says, rolling his eyes. “Just-try to let yourself have fun. I'll be the one that plays lookout tonight, alright? You don’t have to worry about anything.” 

Damian hums in acknowledgement. “You feel very strongly about this.” 

“I do.” Jon gives a crooked smile and Damian can’t help but give a small but genuine smile back. 

“Well, we’ll see when we arrive.”

That was neither a yes or a no, but a small victory nonetheless. They weaved through the crowd of college students, staying in a comfortable silence until they reached the inside of the bar. 

They were quickly spotted by Kathy, who dragged them over to where Colin and Maya were sitting, already with drinks in hand.

“Damian!” Colin slung an arm around his neck, not quite drunk but enough alcohol in his system to be rendered tipsy. 

“Wilkes.” Damian ducked under the grasp, momentarily regretting the evening. 

“So, who’s gonna stay sober this evenin’?” Kathy called from where she was hanging off of Jon, much like Colin had Damian a few seconds before. “Y’all can count Colin off the list.”

“Jon is, I believe.” Damian responded, slightly awkward.

Cheers went up, and Maya tipped her glass towards him. “All grown up, aren’t you, little brother? Gonna join the grownups for some fun?”

He scoffed, taking a seat next to her. “Hardly. Just because I did not join the rest of you imbeciles in becoming inebriated doesn’t mean I was less of an adult.”

“Hey!” Jon put a hand to his heart, mock-offended. 

“Not you, of course,” He was quick to remedy the statement, both sharing soft smiles that left their friends gagging. 

“I’m too sober for your disgusting PDA,” Kathy announced, waving a hand to get the attention of the bartender. 

“Amen to that!” Maya sipped from her cup, Damian’s answering unimpressed expression being undermined by the blush that heated up his face at their words. Jon only laughed in response, placing a chaste kiss on Damian’s cheek, before then starting up a conversation to update their friends on recent solo missions, although they were worded to sound like typical civilian jobs to any possibly prying ears.

Kathy brought over a refill for Colin and Maya, as well as Damian’s first drink of the evening. 

“Figures.” Colin snorted, looking over at the glass. “You’ll never grow out of rich boy shit, will you?”

“This is perfectly acceptable.” Damian sniffed, looking mildly insulted. Jon patted his shoulder, nodding along. 

”Whipped.” Kathy muttered into her drink. Jon coughed, the rest of them snickering.

“Am not!”

“Are too!”

They went on like this for a good five minutes, Damian on the brink of losing his mind for all of it. It was better to save his grievances until the night was in full swing, as things would only escalate from there, and there was no use in wasting his breath when it wouldn’t be heard over the loud music.

It wasn’t long before the group needed another round of drinks. Jon volunteered to grab them and motioned for Damian to follow. Damian tilted his head in a silent question but followed anyway. The pair made their way through the crowd, their hands naturally linking back up as a way to stay close. 

“Are you alright, Dearest?” Damian asked upon arriving at the main bar area. 

“What? Oh yeah, I'm fine. I actually wanted to check on you again.” Jon admitted sheepishly. 

Damian huffed a laugh, rolling his eyes fondly. “Of course,”  

Jon fidgeted with the hem of his shirt. “You know I wasn't trying to pressure you earlier right? You don't have to get balls to the wall wasted-I just-”

Damian squeezed Jon’s hand reassuringly. “Beloved. I know you didn’t mean any harm. I am well aware of my autonomy, believe me. And if I do get ‘balls to the wall wasted’ that is my choice. Okay?”

Jon laughs and his shoulders slump in relief. “Yeah. Okay. Sounds good. Is that-like-the plan then?”

“tt-of course not. Who do you take me for? Richard?” Damian scoffed, his face scrunching up at the mention of his older brother. 

Jon grins. “I mean-”

Damian glares. “Finish that thought, Kent. I dare you.” 

Jon barks out a loud laugh. “Wouldn’t you call me ‘Wayne’? I did take your last name.” 

“You’re an imbecile.” Damian said, the effect was lost of course seeing as the pair’s hands were still connected and there was an unmistakable fond note in his tone. 

It wasn’t much longer before Damian and Jon were able to get the group's desired drinks. Sliding back into their claimed seats, Damian stayed tense, back straight as he sipped on his drink and surveyed the room. He was quickly offset as he felt a light smack hit his shoulder. 

“Relax, Darlin’.” Jon said, looking exasperated. 

Damian sighed, rolled his shoulders and focused on the conversation that was being had at the table. 

“And then, you’ll never believe this, he tried to hit on me!” Kathy waved her drink around, Maya and Colin cackling.

“I was like, excuse me sir, does this look like the face of someone ready to drop their panties? No! I have a knife to your throat.” 

Damian snorted at that, Jon looking over, pleased. As time went on, the music seemed quieter and the lights not as blinding. Damian had already well entered tipsy-zone, onto his fourth drink now, and the world blurring together into a perfect mess.

The rest of their friends were past the safety zone and on their way to an early morning monster hangover. 

“Beloved, have I told you how much I love you today?” Damian had draped himself on top of his husband, looking at him with adoring eyes, caramel skin dusted with a pink flush. 

“Yes.” Jon chuckled, keeping him close. “But I’d love to hear it again.” 

Damian hummed and leaned in close enough that their breaths mingled and Jon could smell the alcohol on his husband's breath. 

“I love you.” Damian said quietly in the very little space between them. His husband leaned forwards to close the distance and place a chaste kiss on his nose.

“Love you too.”

Damian laughed in response and leaned back just enough to breathe, his arms comfortably wrapped around Jons shoulders and one hand propped to play with the curls at the nape of his neck. 

“You’re pretty.” Damian mumbled. 

Jon flushed immediately, ducking his head with a small laugh. “Thank you, darlin’, you’re not half bad yourself.”

Damian tilted his head with an indulgent smile. “I'm absolutely stunning and we both know it.  What’s that one song? The one that’s like-'I'm sexy and I know it’? Yeah, that's me.” 

Jon coughed, unsure whether to burst into laughter or blush harder. “Sure is, D. You've always been the more confident of the two of us.”

Damian groaned. “Well yeah, but do remember-you have every reason to be confident in your appearance as well. I mean-I love you for many reasons but one of them would absolutely be how ethereal you look at all times.”

He went with the ‘blush harder’ option, resisting the urge to duck his head again and instead peppering Damian’s face with little kisses. “You’re so sweet when you’re like this.”

Damian laughed in response to the kisses, lightly pushing Jon away and rolling his eyes. Jon gives a crooked smile and Damian takes another drink from his glass. 

“I'm not sweet, Jonathan,” he scoffed. “I’m simply an honest man. And the truth I'm living is that you're the love of my life.” 

Damian leaned in to steal another kiss from his blushing husband before leaning back again and sipping from his drink. 

This time Jon did hide his face a bit, sure he was burning from the words. Their friends who had previously been on the dance floor returned, Kathy leaning on Maya and Colin stumbling over with a grin on his face.

Damian sat up upon seeing their friends. He downed the rest of the drink he had been drinking and waved them over. 

“Hello peasants.” Damian smirked. “Glad to know none of you are passed out in the bathroom.” 

“If anyones ending this night passed out in the bathroom, it’ll be you. I’ll eat my shoe if I can’t hold my liquor better than you can, assassin training or not.” Colin challenged, leaning over.

“Yeah sure, Wilkes. Whatever you say. I’ll bet you check out before we even get started. What, with how you're leaning off to the side?” Damian scoffed, pointedly ignoring the way he was also leaning a bit too far to the side when he wasn't paying attention. 

Colin called for a round of shots, leaning towards the other side at Damian’s observation. 

“C’mon, how many do you think you can do? Before passing out, of course.”

“More than you, I'm sure.” Damian challenged.

“Bring it, Wayne.” he picked up a shot glass, the rest of them looking on, Kathy and Maya cheering while Jon looked mildly concerned.

Damian patted Jon’s fidgeting hands reassuringly. “Stop looking like that,” he said, picking up his own glass. “Go back to being embarrassed. That was cute.” 

“Hey!” Jon protested, his voice going unheard as the girls counted down.

“1, 2, 3!”

Damian and Colin both swallowed down their shots, both of their faces screwing up for a moment at the strong taste.

“Gonna give up?” Colin grinned, picking up a second one. He tipped it towards the other boy, a challenge clear in the gesture.

Damian scoffed and snatched another shot. “I hope you’re prepared for the hangover you’ll experience tomorrow. I’ve heard blackouts are worse than normal hangovers.”

“You’re gonna eat your words, rich boy.” 

By the fifth shot, both were beyond the bridges of completely wasted, Colin more so then Damian. Jon plucked the 6th glass from both of them, giving them both glasses of water instead. 

“Okay, no one’s getting alcohol poisoning tonight, thanks.” 

“Aw, why not?” Damian pouted, head tilting in amusement. “Go big or go home, right?” 

“Mm, yeah but I'm the one taking you home, and I love you too much to let that happen.”

Damian slid off his chair and leaned into Jon, standing between his legs, chest to chest with his husband. 

“I love you too, beloved.” Damian tilted his head up and caught Jon’s lips with his own. Jon made a surprise noise before melting into the contact. Damian's hands coming up to tangle in Jon’s hair before Damian was pulled away by the collar of his shirt. 

Damian turned and glared at Kathy, while Jon was catching his breath. “Excuse you.” 

Kathy grinned in response and shrugged. “Keep it to the bedroom, lovebirds, I don't wanna see it.” 

Damian muttered a couple unsavory words under his breath but sat back down in his own seat. 

Jon momentarily mourned the loss of his husband, joining Damian in shooting Kathy a less-than-pleased look. 

“Like you haven’t done worse,” He scoffed. “At least you haven’t walked in on us, unlike some people who don’t understand the concept of locked doors.” 

She seemed to have been silenced with that, only snickering a bit as she snuck a sip from Maya’s half-empty glass, sitting abandoned on the table.

From there time flew by, Jon sat in place for a long while, just observing and having lost Damian at some point. Jon exasperatedly looked around throughout the crowd and it was only when Maya stumbled out of a dance circle that he was able to ask where his husband had wandered off to. 

“-eah i don't know, i think he and Colin are dancing somewhere. I know Kathy went to get them some more water.” Maya laughed. “Never thought I'd see the day that Damian Wayne got shitfaced in some random bar but here we are.” 

Jon snorted and let Maya stride over to Kathy. Jon–now with a direction in mind–headed over to find Damian on the dancefloor. 

Jon wasn’t disappointed by what he found. Damian and Colin were each having the time of their lives drunkenly dancing and then proceeding to laugh their asses off at the other at the drop of a hat. Jon’s eyes wandered back to Damian and Jon let out a choked noise upon seeing the man's newest attempt at dancing. This time he moved his hips and let his hands drift up his sides. The lights above them washed over his handsome features nicely, his dark eyes feeling like something Jon could get lost in. 

Someone bumped into Jon and the spell was broken by another round of laughter from Colin and Damian. Jon strode forward and wrapped an arm around Damians waist. 

“Hey, darlin’. Having fun?” He said fondly. 

Damian twisted in Jon’s hold and pressed close, as he had done multiple times that night. Jon was beginning to sense a pattern.

“I am, thank you for asking, dearest. Me and Colin were dancing.” Damian said, only slightly slurring his words. 

“I think it might be time to head home, hun. It’s late and I can guarantee that tomorrow you're going to want as much sleep as possible.” Jon stated, rubbing his hand soothingly up and down Damians back.

Colin whined. “Awe c’mon, night’s barely begun. We’ve been here, what? Two hours?”

Jon laughed. “Try again. We’ve been here for about four and a half.” 

“Damn, alright.” Colin shrugged. “Just make sure to tell Kathy when you leave. You don’t want her losing her mind when she can't find y’all at the end of the night.”

“Will do. C’mon, D.” He led his husband back to where the girls were, Damian doing as much as possible to stay close to Jon, hanging off of him like a baby koala. 

They stopped at the table, Jon being pulled into a seat while Damian unlatched himself and proceeded to sit in his lap instead of the many available seats, arms going around Jon's neck.

“What’re you doing?” He chuckled.

“Is it illegal to take a seat now? Unbelievable.” Damian scoffed.

“I-Okay, we need to get you home.” Jon shook his head fondly, before pulling out his phone and sending a quick message to the group chat.

“There. Now they know that we’re headed home. Are you okay to walk or do I need to carry you?” Jon said, only half joking. 

Damian huffed. “I can walk perfectly fine.” 

Jon raised an eyebrow.

“You’re lucky I'm madly in love with you or else your disrespect would not go unnoticed.” Damian said, sounding fond. 

Jon smiled softly. “I wouldn't have thought that you’d be an affectionate drunk, but here we are.” 

“M’not drunk, I'm just…hm. In a good mood.” Damian insisted. 

“Of course, of course.” Jon rolled his eyes, before sliding Damian off his lap and steadying the both of them. 

“Time to go home, Dames.” 

—--------

The light was much too bright out, Damian decided as he opened his eyes, despite the protests of the hammer going off inside of his skull. The blackout curtains were drawn shut, but the tiny sliver of light coming through them seemed much more like a flashlight shined directly into his face.

With what he’d admit was mild discomfort, he shifted in bed, drawing a small noise from his husband, who was apparently not asleep.

“Good morning.” The words were whispered but sounded like a megaphone, causing Damian to swat at him.

“Speak quieter.”

“I guess the hangover isn’t treating you as well as you’d hoped.” Jon’s voice was much more amused than he would have liked, but at the moment, he hadn’t the energy to comment on it, only grumbling.

“This is all your fault.”

“It always is, isn’t it?” Jon gently pushed back a few loose pieces of hair around his face. “You didn’t have to get as…compromised as you did, but you Bats can never back down from a challenge.”

“And you kryptonians do?” Damian snorted, wincing as the action jostled his body. “Beloved, if you ran from a challenge, i don’t believe we’d be here.” 

Jon hummed in acknowledgement. “So, moral of the story is we’re both stubborn and competitive. Yeah? Me slightly more than you, of course. ‘Cause you’re just a sweet baby angel aren’t ya, honey?”

Damian scoffed and subsequently cringed again, Jon’s previous snark was replaced with soft, exasperated affection.

“I’ll grab you some painkillers and some water. I'll be right back, darlin’.” Jon clambered out of bed and shuffled himself out of the room. 

Damian closed his eyes and willed the headache to go away. 

“Hey, we’re both off today from day jobs so that’s nice–oh and I was planning on calling Bruce and asking about us sitting out of patrol for tonight-” Jon rounded the bed and quickly handed off the aforementioned items. 

“No.” Damian mumbled. 

“You really can’t think you’re alright to patrol tonight-” Jon said slowly.  

Damian glared tiredly and Jon crossed his arms. 

“I’m fine, Jon. Stop coddling.” Damian insisted. 

Jon sighed in response but didn’t push. He crawled back into bed and picked up his phone only for his eyebrows to shoot up into his hairline upon seeing the mass amounts of notifications on his homescreen. Tiktok, instagram, snapchat. Any kind of social media and there was someone mentioning him, or trying to get his attention. It wasn’t too unusual. Not really. Jon always had at least a bit of attention due to marrying one of Gotham’s sweethearts. But even then, this was excessive. Curiously Jon randomly opened one of the Tiktok videos that people had been sending him–and Jon couldn’t help the laugh that shook his body upon watching. 

“Shut up,” Damian uncurled just enough to glare at his husband. 

Jon didn’t even attempt to stifle the chuckles that escaped his mouth. 

“You’re famous, Dami.” Jon snorted. “Again.”

Damian huffed and sat up to snatch Jon’s phone. It took all of five seconds for Damian’s face to flush upon recognizing himself from the night before. 

It was an edit, Damian vaguely remembers himself and Colin dancing with each other and apparently the people had  not only seen but recorded, uploading the clips onto the internet for frivolous purposes like these.

Damian glared at Jon and gestured pointedly with the phone, ignoring the looped music playing from the device. “This is your fault.” 

Jon laughed harder. 

Their ship name was trending again, along with different variations of Damian's name. The rest of the morning was spent with his horrible husband watching various edits and reading posts aloud to him.

Of course, it was all followed up by being doted on the rest of the day, which may or may not have made up for everything.

When the evening came and he slipped on the suit, Jon tried to talk him out of it again. 

“Really, Dami, I think they’d understand, people have called off patrol for less.” He plucked the mask from his husband’s hold, putting out the puppy eyes he knew made the other’s resolve crumble.

“Jonathan.” Damian huffed, reaching up for the mask, eyebrow raising as it was held above his head in a childish gesture. “I will not be brought down by a generally harmless illness and an unfortunately timed headache.”

“A hangover, babe.” Jon kept the mask above his head as if they were bickering preteens and teens all over again. “You never drink enough to get properly wasted, so now that you have, it’s not going to be kind to you.”

“You’re being childish, give it to me.” Damian scolded instead, refusing to lower himself to the grounds where he’d jump. He’d need a running start to reach above Jon’s height, and frankly, he was not in the mood for this, nor willing to waste what little energy he had left.

“Just stay tonight, i’ll stay with you,” He pleaded once more. Damian sighed, looking out of the apartment window at the darkening sky.

“I will end patrol two hours earlier.” He offered, headache thanking him as it thrummed in his skull. 

Jon scrunched up his face, analyzing him, before handing him the mask, resigned. “You shouldn’t even be going out. I’m a horrible husband for condoning this.”

“You were a horrible husband when you let me go viral due to my antics while inebriated, no matter how pure the intentions.”

Jon whined. “You’re so mean.” 

“So I've been told.” Damian snorted.

Jon sighed and handed over the mask, it was quiet for a moment as Damian checked over his gear. 

“You have to admit that the reality of you being a party drunk is pretty damn funny-” Jon said, breaking the silence.

“Jonathan.” 

“I know you’re embarrassed, it's okay honey-'' Jon grinned. 

“I am not embarrassed-” Damian huffed. 

“You totally are!” Jon laughed. 

“You are on thin ice, habibi.” Damian turned away from Jon and made his way out into the night.

“You know you love me.” Jonathan chirped, following close behind. 

“I suppose that’s why I married you, isn’t it?”

—--------

Damian was beginning to wonder if he should have listened to his husband.

The sudden jolt of nausea had caused him to nearly miss a swing from his grappling hook, looking downwards not helping whatsoever. He made it finally to the designated rooftop his siblings had told him to go to. On a normal day, he would have seen where it was going, but at this point, he was much too out of it to care too much.

“Hey Demon.” A voice from behind him caused him to jump and he turned, seeing his second oldest brother grinning at him, helmet under his arm.

“Todd.” he crossed his arms. 

“He got you, didn’t he, Baby Bat?” Tim appeared next, a smirk on his face. “Must be a bit disorienting for you, huh?”

“I haven’t the slightest clue what you’re on about, Drake.” Damian sniffed, turning around and silently begging every deity known to man that his siblings wouldn’t mention his…late night escapades. 

Of course, God is dead and Damian could always count on the others to stir the pot even more.  Dick hugged him, and mentioned nothing, thank fuck, but Stephanie was another thing.

“You’re all over the internet, Dami!” Steph cackled, shoving his phone in his face. The brightness was too high for his liking and he batted it away, grumbling.

“Little brother, not in shape for patrol.” Cass said, sounding serious but the mirth was dancing in her eyes.

“Baby’s first awful hangover!” Jason cheered, ruffling his hair. “Surprised your gorgeous husband whom you love so much and is the best person in the world didn’t make you stay.”

Damian cringed at the use of descriptions, just one of the things from when he was drunk off his ass and waxing poetic about his partner going viral on the internet. 

“He attempted it. I am perfectly fine, thank you.”

“You’re too young for this,” Dick wailed. “This is my baby, you guys, this is not right-!”

“Grayson.” Damian grumbled and his oldest brother clung to him. “Stop.”

Jason snorted. “C’mon don’t beat him while he's down. Plus. You’re, what? Ten years old?”

“I am twenty four!” Damian hissed.

“Four?” Tim echoed, shit-eating grin splitting his face open. “Holy shit you guys, he’s still a baby.”

“Drake.” Damian growled as he was held tighter. “Sleep tonight and you will not wake tomorrow.”

“Dami,” Dick whined. “You got drunk-” 

“Yes, we’ve established this.” Damian grumbled. 

“You’d think with all the bitching you’ve done at us, you’d never even touch alcohol.” Steph said, still scrolling on her phone. 

“I am an adult. I am allowed a couple drinks-” said Damian. 

“More than a couple.” Cass shook her head while the rest of their siblings stifled their laughter. 

“Need to go home.” She declared, poking at him affectionately.

“I’m fine.” Damian would never admit to the whine that laced the words, swatting at Cass’s hand.

“Uh-huh,” Jason snorted.

“I blame Jon.” Damian grumbled. 

“How could you say that about the love of your life?!” Steph gasped in mock offense. 

“He’s the one who encouraged me to ‘have fun’. I was merely making him happy and…got carried away.” Damian flushed and elbowed Dick at his responding coo. 

“God, you guys are so gross. Ew, Look you’re practically grinding on him-” Steph flashed her phone in Damian’s eyes again and Damian hissed. 

“He is my husband. Stop being a voyeur, Brown.” Steph’s face screwed up in disgust. “And I swear you turned up the brightness on that vile device just to spite me.” Damian scowled. 

“Maybe I did, what’re you gonna do about it? Stab me? When you can’t even walk in a straight line?” Steph grinned. 

“You’re all dead to me.” Damian deadpanned. “Also that is a gross dramatization. If I was that compromised I wouldn't have come to patrol at all.”  

At the responding looks of skepticism, Damian sighed. At that moment there was a thump and the crunch of gravel as another person joined them. None of the young adults had to look to know it was their dad, or as he was now, Batman. 

The immediate silence weighed over them, louder than the previous conversations. Anticipation hung in the air as he cleared his throat, seemingly waiting for a greeting.

“Father.” Damian glanced at him, seemingly unconcerned over the possibilities this exchange might bring.

“Damian.” Bruce responded stiffly, looking rather uncomfortable. Damian raised a brow, seemingly scandalized.

“Names on the field, Batman.”

“Right, well, how has your day been?” Bruce coughed, much to Damian’s confusion.

“Fine..?” Damian narrowed his eyes at him. “What are you getting at?”

“Last night seemed to have been very eventful for you.” There was a choked wheezing noise from behind him, undoubtedly one of his brothers. 

Damian flushed, crossing his arms and looking much like a petulant child then the adult he was supposed to be. “I’m far past legal age, father. I’m married, I no longer live under your roof, there’s really no need for-”

“I don’t think we really ever had a talk about safe drinking, son.” Bruce cut him off with a seemingly concerned tone of voice.

“Father, we absolutely do not have to-”

“You should always have a limit, and I know that you do, but please remember to have a designated driver, and stay hydrated.” Bruce’s voice was tuned out by Damian’s own fuming thoughts, his siblings barely concealed laughter echoing in his mind.

This was humiliating. Here he was, surrounded by absolute hypocrites, all clowning on him and giving him talks. He was Damian Al Ghul Wayne (Kent), for fuck’s sake! He’d been building up his tolerance since he was a child, granted not that it had been exercised recently past a glass of champagne at a gala, but still. 

“-amian? Damian, are you listening to me?” He snapped out of his thoughts, Tim seemingly doing a dolphin impression next to him, high pitched shrieks and rumbles of barley held back laughter.

“No.” Damian scowled. “You’re all hypocrites, how dare you have the audacity to treat me this way when each of you have had much worse versions of this than I have! At least I didn’t go around trying to flirt with anyone other than the person I am actually with.”

”Pretty sure he just called y’all hoes.” Steph stage-whispered, Tim now in a fetal position on the rooftop and rocking back and forth while Jason cackled loudly.

“Furthermore, yes, while my tolerance isn’t exactly what it used to be, it certainly looks better that I am actually of the correct age for something like this, and everyone seems to have taken it as positive publicity. This was my choice, no matter how other elements may have influenced it.”

He let out a long breath, looking up with annoyed glance. “And besides, I was kept safe by Jonathan, who didn’t let any of us go past a limit, and cared for me and attempted to get me off of patrol.”

”Whipped.” came from somewhere in the crowd, followed by a gagging noise and something that sounded like a dying vacuum. 

“Tt.” Damian turned. “I’ve had enough of you imbeciles. I’m retiring for the night, and you’ll do well to stop gossiping for God’s sake.”

The tips of his ears were dusted pink, betraying his mortification over the events. He moved to shoot his grappling hook, tripping and landing on his face due to the dully pounding headache at the back of his head that was meddling with his senses.

That was the tipping point for his siblings, and the poorly concealed laughter began to scream out near hysterically. 

“What, were you all hit with laughing toxin?” Damian brushed himself off, looking moments away from stomping his foot like a toddler. “You’re insufferable, the lot of you!”

He swooped away, entire body burning in shame. God, he should have just listened to Jon. Not that he’d tell him though.

—----------

Damian was considerably less flustered by the time he entered his home but the tips of his ears still felt warm when he thought back to the mortifying encounter with his family. 

“Of course all of them had to be present to humiliate me. None of them can be bothered to make time for any event of actual importance but oh as soon as there's blood in the water everyone shows up. Sharks, the lot of them.” Damian muttered angrily. 

“So how was patrol?” Damian looked up to see Jon leaning against a doorway nearby. 

“It went well, nothing interesting.” Damian said, lying through his teeth. 

Jon looked amused. “Liar.” 

Damian held back a groan. “And why do you say that, Jonathan.” 

“Aside from the fact that you look more pissed off than usual, you have your tells.” Jon looked fond. 

“What may these tells be, exactly?” Damian raised an eyebrow.

Jon shrugged with a grin and finally made his way over to Damian before wrapping his arms around his waist. 

“You inhale a bit through your nose and deliberately make more eye contact when you lie. I’ve always assumed it was to keep your heart rate controlled and to make what you're saying be taken more seriously because usually you hate direct eye contact.” Jon explained.

Damian did groan aloud at this and Jon laughed quietly. Damian scoffed but couldn’t help the way his eyes softened at the sound and the way he leaned into Jon’s touch. Damian and Jon were again chest to chest but this time they just existed in each other's arms and swayed slightly to the soft sound of a song that only the two of them could hear. 

“Seriously though, are you alright?” Jon pulled away slightly before he finally spoke again after an indiscernible amount of time had passed. His voice was soft and slightly concerned. Damian sighed and pulled out of his arms completely in order to get out of his suit. 

“I’m fine, I promise, habibi. Slightly embarrassed due to my family's idiocy but fine nonetheless.”

Jon hummed. “I’m going to take a wild guess and assume they saw the videos online.” 

Damian snorted. “Stephanie made it her mission to scroll through as many as she could.” 

“Of course she did.” Jon rolled his eyes. 

Damian pulled off the last bits of armor and quickly pulled on a pair of sweatpants that had been lying around as well as a shirt he didn’t doubt belonged to Jon seeing as it hung a bit loosely off his frame. 

“I would like to go to bed now.” Damian said, coming to lean into his husband’s side once more. 

“Sounds good to me. I did put out some water and painkillers for you if you need them, though.” Jon said. 

 Damian's headache abruptly made itself known now that Damian’s attention was brought back to it. 

“Ah, yes. Water and medication, then sleep.” Damian winced. 

Soon, Damian and Jon were able to fall back into bed and wrap themselves around each other under their duvet. Damian hid his face in the crook of Jon’s neck and Jon tilted his own to the side in order to rest his chin atop the soft strands of Damian's hair. Before long, both were fast asleep and soft snoring filled the room. 

It was quiet, save the soft noises of sleep. And despite the darkness of night, the love that they held for each other was as bright and clear as day. It would continue like that as long as they would stay together, a shining beacon of light through the harder times and lighthearted chaos. For now, though, they were content to stay like that, their bubble of home, warm and soft and full of love.

[drabbles-mc]

Here On Out

Benny Cross x Kathy Cross

Written for @narcosfandomdiscord Book of These Damn Restraints: "Now you know why I never say anything."

Warnings: 18+, language, angst

Word Count: 1.8k

A/N: I have been wanting to write another Benny/Kathy fic for a hot minute now and I'm so so glad that the prompts gave me the inspo for this little heartbreaker! in my head this is a missing scene from the movie, but if that's not your jam you can pretend it's an AU lmao. I just. I think about them so much idk

The ride back to the house after his last conversation with Johnny felt longer than usual and yet still not long enough. He went through the motions like it was business as usual, even though it was anything but. He cut the engine near the end of the road, rolling quietly until he landed in front of Kathy's house in an attempt to not wake her or the neighbors up in the small hours of the morning.

All the lights in all the windows on the street were out, except for the bedroom light in Kathy's window. Benny knew that she was probably still going to be awake when he got home, but part of him had been hoping that she wouldn’t be. It would make all of this so much easier.

He dropped the kickstand and swung his leg off and over the bike in what seemed like one fluid motion. Everything about it was second nature now. He padded quietly up the stairs until he was on the front porch. He lingered by the door for a moment, chin tucking down towards his chest as he took a deep breath. He allowed himself to linger there for a few more seconds, soaking up the last of what would be the latest in a long series of before’s.

There was the Benny that he was before he came to Chicago. There was the Benny he was before he became one of the Vandals. There was the Benny he was before he married Kathy. He thought that he'd run out of them, that the rest of his life was just going to be a permanent state of after.

But he found out that he had at least one more in him: The Benny he was before he left her.

Once he got up those stairs and went down the hall and through the bedroom doorway, he would be moving into a brand new after. He didn’t know what that was going to feel like, didn't know if he was really ready for it. Didn't seem like he had much of a say in the matter, though.

Finally, he opened the door. He left his jacket and boots on, but still shut and locked the door behind him. Out of habit he went to reach for the pack of smokes he had but he fought the urge—he wouldn’t be staying long enough to enjoy one before he had to turn back around and leave again.

The stairway was dark but he could still see the warm yellow light that was coming from down the hall. One hand tracing against the wall, he made his way upstairs. The silence of the house felt heavier than it usually did, or maybe it was just him that felt heavier.

When he reached the doorway, it was to find Kathy awake with a book open across her lap. The duvet was pulled up and covering her legs, her hair falling down around her shoulders while one hand toyed with a stray lock of it while she read. Messing with the rings on his hand, Benny lingered just outside the room so he could steal a few more seconds of looking at her like that before he shattered the façade of it all.

“You just gonna stand there then?” Kathy asked, only lifting her eyes from the pages in front of her when she asked her second question, “Gonna stand out in the hall all night like some kinda creep?”

Benny let out a laugh, or the closest that he ever really got to it, that sharp breath out through his nose. Shaking his head, he crossed the threshold into the room. “No.”

Even as he was walking into the room, he didn’t really know what his plan was. He knew how it all had to end, but he had no idea how he was going to get there. Living that way had served him just fine so far. At least neither of them had the anger in their voices that they'd had in their conversation earlier. It all had given way to exhaustion now.

He went over and sat down on Kathy's side of the bed. He could see the confusion on her face, wondering why he wasn't getting ready to come to bed with her. She closed her book and set it off to the side, hands resting in her lap as she stared at him, watched him as he looked back and forth between her and the window.

“Everythin' alright?” she asked. Before he could try and give an answer, she said, “How'd it go with Johnny?”

Benny shrugged at that, frowning slightly. “Fine. Took care'a some things.”

Kathy scoffed quietly and shook her head as she repeated the words back to him, annoyance in her voice. “Took care'a some things. I was tryna talk to you before, you know. I had somethin' to say and you just,” she gestured vaguely to the doorway, “went right on ahead and took off. No goodbye, no nothin', but apparently it was real important. Now you come back at,” she turned and looked at the clock beside her bed, “God. And all you can tell me is you took care'a some things? I can't keep doin' this, Benny, you know? I can't—”

“I know,” he said, interrupting wherever the stream of consciousness was threatening to take her next.

His reaction gave her pause. “What?”

He nodded, looking down at his hands for a moment. “I know. That you can't, you know,” he forced himself to look at her, “can't do this no more.”

Kathy’s eyes were wide as she slowly shook her head while processing through what he'd just said to her. “Okay. So…so what's that mean, then? What's that mean you know I can't do this no more? ‘Cause, come on, Benny, you must'a been knowin' before this, you know? You must'a known back when all that happened that there was no way that I could just keep—”

“You wanna leave.”

Kathy stumbled on her words for a moment. “I never said that.”

Benny sighed, staring down at the seams of the blanket for a moment. “You want me to leave the club.”

“That's not the same as me wantin' to leave. But if the only way to get you outta all that mess is to leave, then, then yeah I'll do that, y'know. If that's what it takes I'll do it. Hell, Benny, I'll pack my bags right now and we can leave tonight.”

He shook his head. “You don't gotta do all that.”

Kathy reached for his hand. “I will, though. If it gets us away from all’a this mess I'll do it.”

Benny almost went to pull his hand away from her but stopped. He soaked it up, the soft warmth of her palm as it seeped into the top of his hand. He reached with his thumb, running it along her fingers.

He studied the way that their lands looked layered and tangled together like that as he tried to choose his next words with the utmost care. “You don't gotta do all that,” he looked her in the eyes again, “’cause I'm leavin'.”

Kathy froze. “What?”

He nodded. “Yeah. I'm, uh, I'm gonna grab a couple'a my things, and I'm just gonna go.”

“Benny—”

“That's what you want.”

She squeezed his hand tighter. “That's not what I want. I want—”

Benny felt an unfamiliar tightness in his chest. He tried his best to ignore it. “What you want,” he shook his head, “I can't give you that.” Finally, he pulled his hand away. “Leavin' is the best I can do for you, Kathy.”

Tears welled up in her eyes. “C'mon, Benny. Don't do this. You always say you're gonna do this but you never—”

“And now I am. It's, uh, it's better this way, y'know?” His frown stretched deeper. “I ain't ever gonna be what you really want, so I might as well just go now.”

Kathy sniffled, pressing the heels of her palms to her eyes for a moment to get the tears to go away. “This what you really want, then? This what you really think you should do? After everythin' and all'a this…”

“Now you know why I never say anythin'.” He wanted to reach out for her again but he stopped himself. “All it does is break your heart.”

The chuckle that Kathy let out was weak and sad, matching the small smile on her face perfectly. Tears were already back in her eyes again. “ No one better at it'n you.”

He didn’t know how to apologize for some of it without apologizing for all of it. He wasn't sorry about the club, but he was sorry for what it'd done to her. He was sorry for the hurt she was going to feel when he left, but he wasn't sorry for leaving. She was always the talker, always the one that could pick things apart down to each little bone that made up the skeleton. Maybe after he was gone she would be able to peel it open and see the intricacies for herself. Once she was done being sad, once she was done being angry. It might be awhile.

“I gotta go, Kathy.”

Benny said the words with such finality that Kathy didn’t even try to argue. She didn’t get out of bed to try and stop him from shoving some of his clothes into a bag. Instead she sat there, twisting the blanket between her fingers and gnawing on the inside of her cheek. Benny tried not to keep looking over at her, knowing that it wasn't going to change or help anything if he did. He could look into her big, sad, brown eyes all he wanted but it wasn’t going to do anything but break both their hearts more.

When he was done, and he closed up the bag where he'd stuffed all of his clothes, he felt a wave of familiarity wash over him. He'd rolled into Chicago with nothing but his bike and a bag, and now he was leaving with the same thing.

He paused by the foot of the bed and looked at Kathy. She looked small and sad and part of Benny just wanted to slide into bed beside her and hold her but he'd given up the right to do that the second he told her that he was going to leave.

She sniffled. “I still love you, y’know.”

That got a crack of a smile out of him. Walking over to her side of the bed once more, he leaned down and pressed his lips to her forehead, the kiss reaching her through her bangs. He pressed his forehead against hers for a brief second, and then pulled away.

His boots sounded heavier on the hardwood as he left than they had when he'd arrived. He fought the urge to turn back and look at her, knowing that this was just another after now.

When he got outside to his bike, he allowed himself to look up at the bedroom window. The crushing weight on his chest got a little lighter when he saw the bedroom light go off.

(Divider by @silkholland 💞)

The Bikeriders Taglist: @garbinge @narcolini @hausofmamadas @xxanaduwrites @sirbogarde (If you'd like to be added to any of my taglists, please let me know!)

[fallingblueroses]

Another unrelated little snippet. Context: Kathy and VoicePlay are in a room waiting. Geoff is not there. (Actually part of a longer fic called "The Call of the Void" that has been sitting unfinished since before I started writing "For Clan and Kin".)

***

The droning hum and beeping of the machines were about to drive Kathy crazy. She had the only chair, but she was considering stretching out on the floor like Layne had. Eli and Cesar were sitting on the floor near him. Eli was staring off into the distance and Cesar was dozing beside him.

Eli suddenly chuckled, breaking the tense silence. Layne looked over. "What's funny?"

Eli had a small smile on his face. "Just remembering that time you kissed Geoff."

Kathy blinked. "What?"

Layne frowned. "I never--Oh." He put a hand to his mouth as he remembered. "Oh, yeah."

Cesar looked up, interested. "Never heard this story."

Eli laughed. "It was back when we were touring with Earl and J. We were in Pheonix, and when we got to our hotel the rooms we'd booked were full. We finally find a double room in this fleabag hotel outside of the city. Five guys, with only four places to sleep. We played rock-paper-scissors to see who had to sleep on the floor."

"You lost," Layne reminded him.

"Yeah, I did. Earl and J got one bed, and Layne and Geoff the other. So I wake up the next morning, and Earl and J are giggling. When I sit up Earl shushes me and points to the other bed. Layne must have been dreaming about Cyndi, because he had Geoff all wrapped up. I mean, if they'd been any closer they would have fused together. And Geoff, well, you know how he sleeps. He's out. Dead to the world." Cesar had a hand over his mouth to keep from laughing as Eli went on. "So I get an idea. I go over to Layne and say--" his voice changed to a perfect imitation of Cyndi "--'Good morning, baby.'" His voice went back to normal. "And Layne never even blinked. Just mumbles 'Morning' and plants a kiss on Geoff's lips. Geoff wakes up to Layne sucking out his tonsils--"

"I was not! It was just a little good morning kiss!"

"--and freaks the fuck out. Grabs Layne, rolls over, and flings him out of the bed. Layne's on the floor half-awake and Geoff is screaming. 'What the hell, Layne! What the fuck was that?!' And we're just laughing. Earl was laughing so hard he was laying on the floor. I thought we were going to have to call an ambulance for him. J is on his knees with his head on the bed and I had to sit back in the chair."

Cesar was laughing outright now, and Kathy felt the smile on her face. "So what'd they do to you when they figured it out?"

"We beat the shit out of him," Layne said.

Eli grinned at him. "With pillows."

"We still beat the shit out of you. And then Geoff spent ten minutes brushing his teeth and gargling like I had the plague."

Cesar wiped tears of laughter from his eyes. "Oh man. That's great. That's glorious."

Kathy laughed a little as well, and the tension in the room lifted a little bit.

[rjzimmerman]

From my humble perspective, most bureaucrats working for state or local agencies that "regulate" wildlife are idiots. And, unfortunately, because agencies in states that are predominantly Democrat politically, these bureaucrats tend to be Democrats. Which means they love to throw around state and local regulations that they have no idea how to read in between bites of their donuts and sips of their coffee, and then kill the wildlife species that is otherwise enjoying a nice day because somebody lacked a license. This part of the MAGA obsession with government regulations I understand completely.

I should be arrested, I guess. I don't have a sanctuary, but I have about two dozen squirrels in our yard raiding our bird feeders. So I have bags of peanuts and feed them, hoping the peanut bribery will keep them away from the feeders. Some of the squirrels take the peanuts right from my hand, squat down to chomp and eat, and then look to me with their sorrowful giant eyes for more. I comply.

Excerpt from this Rolling Stone story:

It’s tough to think that a squirrel might tilt the presidential election, but it’s 2024, so here we are. 

It all started last week, when an Instagram-famous rodent named Peanut was taken from a house near Elmira, New York, along with a raccoon named Fred. Peanut had lived with Mark Longo and his wife, Daniela, for the past seven years; Fred had lived there for about five months. Rescuing Peanut from near-death and bonding with him had inspired the couple to start a nonprofit animal sanctuary — P’Nut Freedom Farm — and Fred had been left at their doorstep. 

But then, on Oct. 30, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) raided their home, and after a five-hour search, the two animals were confiscated. According to a statement given to WENY, a local TV station, by the DEC and the county health department, Peanut had bitten one of the investigators, and both animals had to be euthanized in order to test for rabies. 

In a more reasonable timeline, the animals’ caretakers and fans would mourn them, and perhaps it would spark internet discourse on the ethics of keeping wild animals indoors, effectively as pets. (All the other animals in their care live outside.) But like a 2024 Murphy’s law, if something ends up trending, it must become political. 

So when Longo posted about his anger with the DEC for using tax dollars to raid his nonprofit sanctuary, it got picked up by local Republican politicians blaming Gov. Kathy Hochul. Then Elon Musk, the world richest’s man, got involved, meming the squirrel to oblivion while his minions began cranking out AI sludge of former President Donald Trump and Peanut standing triumphantly, together. Trump’s campaign posted on TikTok: “Vote Trump for Peanut.” His account wrote that Peanut was “needlessly murdered by Democrat bureaucrats in New York,” adding: “We will avenge you on Tuesday at the ballot box.” 

By Sunday, the squirrel was on the cover of the New York Post. 

[martyrbat]

detective comics #490

[ID: Bruce Wayne in a cottage after Talia al Ghul saved his life (again). He has his arm in a slink and is wearing his costume as he stands in the doorway with her, looking out at the beautiful haven they share. The cottage is surrounded by rolling fields of green grass and pink flowers blossoming near the pathway. There's a small creek and a low, wooden bridge that crosses it in the foreground. Talia reminds him, “We live and we must not forget that. Walk with me! Feel the sunshine... Smell the air... Let the breeze wash over you!” Bruce tells her, “I shouldn't—”. Talia persists, “But you should! Allow yourself to forget the violence... the strife... those grim things that consume you!”

They start to walk together, Talia having her arms linked around his good one. She promises, “Tomorrow you can begin your tasks anew! Today, can you not simply let yourself be glad that you live?” He responds, “With Kathy's murderers having finally faced the consequences of their actions...” Bruce trails off before he finally allows himself to smile. He continues, “Yes, maybe now I can... at least for today.” END ID]

[eptodaytommorowforever]

Events In The History And The Life Of Elvis Presley Today The 24th Of June In 1977.

Elvis Presley Dane County Coliseum, Madison June 24th,In 1977. Sadly The Final Tours And Shows Performances And Concerts That Elvis Aaron Presley Would Perform In Is Very Short Lifetime.

The concert was the third to last performance Elvis Presley would ever give. It was held June 24, 1977 in Madison, WI, at the Dane County Coliseum:

The show starts off just after the 2001 has ended, and just before Elvis Presley enters the stage.CC Rider starts off with Elvis Presley very loud on the mic, then sliding into a routine, but not bad version. Near the end of the song it sounds like Elvis Presley says Junior Simple - a reference to the Hee Haw character. The drumming style is noticeably different. Stump is playing like a man on fire, the tempo is slightly faster than the usual Tutt version, but he's holding his own for sure.

Next, Elvis Presley gets the usual case of the 'well well's' a very slow rendition, with James almost having to pull Elvis Presley along. Elvis Presley jokes with a few of the females in the crowd ignoring James trying to drag him along. A good version of I Got A Woman next, it should be noted that Stump had some pretty cool drum rolls during the song. On to Amen, Elvis Presley is getting into it, asking the crowd to sing it with him. He says to someone, maybe Kathy 'Hold my hand' near the end of it. Elvis Presley complains about the feedback, and gives a wry chuckle before doing leg wiggles messing with the crowd. Addressing the drummer 'Keep your eye on me Stump!' then cutting him off saying 'Where are you going Stump? Watch me, son!' with a laugh. Elvis Presley's unhappy with his mic, and the feedback issues already coming into play says 'Something ain't right, help me out JD, this is dead as three shades of hell' Finishing Amen there is a huge feedback, and Elvis Presley gives up on the song. During the welcoming to the show, more feedback, an agitated Elvis Presley finally addresses Felton telling him to 'watch the feedback, surely uh, whoever's doing the...' then gets back on track with the show welcome. Someone requests "Old Shep" to which Elvis Presley laughs and says he hasn't done that song since he was 8. Finishing the welcome Elvis Presley says that he will do all of the songs they want to hear, and to 'leave the driving to Stump' then makes an off mic complaint about his belt.

On with the show. Elvis Presley goes into Love Me. And After A Good Hour Of Elvis Presley Singing A Set List Of Songs New And Some Old Classics As Well As A Great Blues Version Of "One Night" That Was The Last Time He Performed This Presley Classic Live. The Show Performance Concert Finally Comes To An End. And Elvis Presley As Proved Here Still To Is Critics He Still As What It Takes To Rock And Keep Up With The Rest Of Them All Here Still In 1977 I just Want To Finish My Brief Review Here And Say Thank You Elvis Presley For A Great Concert. Is Rare Own Unseen Till Now! Live Candid Photo's Of Elvis Presley Taken Here At This Show Venue.Of Elvis Presley Wearing Here The Aztec Mexican Sundial Jumpsuit And Matching Belt.

Brief Concert Review By A Loyal And Dedicated Fan/ Music Journalist Critic Who Was At This Awesome! Show Performance Concert. Elvis Presley Performed At The Dane County Coliseum In Madison On June The 24th In 1977.

[flavorfusionny]

From Tandoor to Wok: Flavor Fusion’s Best Chicken Dishes to Satisfy Your Cravings

If you’re in search of Indian-style chicken dishes, you’ve reached the right destination. At Flavor Fusion, you will find plenty of delicious options that remind you of those Indian dhabas and eateries. Over the last 2 decades, the place has served numerous foodies in New York who miss spices and flavors Punjabi, Bengali, and Indo-Chinese dishes.

Talking about its menu, the options are plentiful. We’ve chosen the three best chicken options that make the place so special.

Chicken Tikka Masala

This chicken tikka masala restaurant serves drool worthy pieces of chicken. This iconic dish is all about balance! The chefs perfectly spice up the chicken and add those pieces to a creamy, flavorful tomato-based sauce. Whether you’re a fan of bold spices or prefer a slightly milder flavor, this is what you should order. What sets Flavor Fusion apart is the attention to detail! Tender pieces of chicken, a sauce that’s rich but not overwhelming, and the perfect hint of smokiness from the tandoor. All these components makes it deliciously awesome. It’s a classic Indian favorite that’s been perfected for New York’s diverse food scene.

Best Butter Chicken

Which is “best butter chicken near me?” We often ask this question while searching for our favorite dish, especially when we aren’t in India. The answer is Flavor Fusion. The butter chicken from this placeis a perfect blend of tender chicken pieces and a creamy, buttery sauce. This sauce (or gravy) is lightly spiced, making it a hit for everyone. From spice lovers to those who prefer something a bit more mellow, every guest appreciates it. This rich and comforting option has just the right amount of tang from the tomatoes and a hint of sweetness that rounds out the dish beautifully.  Have it with a garlic naan or butter naan for a wholesome experience.

Best Chicken Fried Rice

It is difficult to find those who don’t like fried rice. This savory rice item is what you can consume regularly without getting bored. Flavor Fusion’s option is something many people love.

Choose it if you’re thinking which is the “best chicken fried rice near me.” The dish comes with flavorful rice and tender, marinated chicken. They’re stir-fried to perfection with veggies and the perfect combo of Indo-Chinese spices. This dish is savory, satisfying, and packs just the right amount of umami.  Explore the entire Indo-chinese option that this restaurant offers from here: https://flavorfusionny.com/. For reservations and other queries, you can also call their number: 516-998-3086. https://ubcnewsworld.podbean.com/e/top-indian-food-spot-in-floral-park-queens-introduces-fusion-kathi-cheese-roll/

[eviesessays]

32. What is one of your earliest childhood memories?

My memory is cluttered with fragments of memorable events.  I remember a storm when we lived on Queen Street.  The thunder clapped and lightning bolts seemed to be everywhere striking and melting our neighbors fence.  I clearly remember our playmates Billy, Kathy and Patrick and that might be because we went all through school together graduating with Patrick.  I clearly remember all the roads were dirt and Mr. Otto graded them in summer and rolled the snow packer over them in Winter.   I knew no other type except from pictures in the paper. I think I was about three and a half years old when we went to visit my paternal grandmother, Eva Kolody in East Selkirk, Manitoba. My Dad insists I was too young to remember but some memories die hard and I am certain I remember this story.  My grandmother was a formidable presence. She was a large woman who wore long dresses and always a babooshka.  not an attractive head scarf but a babooshka.  I have no memory of liking her but only  being quite afraid of her.  She spoke mainly in her native tongue so I seldom knew what she was saying.

My memory of that visit was not primarily of her but rather of her dog.  He was a nondescript snarly yowl who lurked everywhere.  One day Kip and I were sent to her cellar to get ourselves an apple from a bushel barrel.  As I reached for my apple that dog bit my right hand.  I had a puncture wound and it was likely only an act of God that I did not get rabies.  My grandmother died shortly after that visit but I still have my scar from that last visit.

 She and my grandfather, Stephan had immigrated to Canada in 1909.  They were recipients of a land grant in East Selkirk where they were to grow potatoes and a specific number of bushels of potatoes would go to the Canadian government until the cost of the land was paid.  I do not know how long it took to own the land outright but my grandfather died soon after.  My grandmother with a flock of daughters and only my Dad and uncle John (who was cognitively “slow”), were left to run the farm.  Various hired help came and went. My Dad went to work in the rolling mills hoping to never do farm work or wear dungarees ever again.  

When I visited my Dad near his end  he was in Sioux Lookout General Hospital, having had many strokes over the last ten years.  he was now quite debilitated and it was on this visit that I brought an old photo album from his house to identify all these people I did not know.  I remarked that he and his brothers Harry and Bill were very handsome young men.  I asked if they looked like their Mom or Dad.  with a very sheepish grin my father reminded me that they were born six or more years after my grandfather died.  At age 50. I was able to do the math.What a revelation.  Babooshka and all my granny was a tart.

Weeks after I wrote this remark I was plagued with feelings of regret.  It was a reckless, glib remark and I felt compelled to correct it.  I know my gran was not a tart.  She was an immigrant woman with very limited language ability, a potato farm to maintain and a dead husband. My Dad as still a boy and my uncle John was  no help.  John had some mental impairment.  With limited language ability and limited facilities in the farm country his mental deficits went undiagnosed and untreated.  My grandmother took in a hired hand.  My uncle Harry resulted from that liaison. After  a couple years this help left.  My aunts were old enough to help care for the baby but the farm still needed help.  Another hired hand came on board and in time my grandmother gave birth to my uncle Bill.  The hired man eventually left but the potato farm remained until the death of my uncle Bill.  His widow, Doris inherited the farm.

My grandmother died not long after our visit which makes me think her condition was the reason for our visit.  I have no other memory of my paternal grandmother.  

Probably of the same era is my memory of Fasano’s Candy Store where my Dad took us every Sunday for a sweet treat. I clearly remember Betty, who owned the candy shop.  She also played the piano for the town band who were all anchored on a flatbed truck for every parade  or occasion that required a little music.  

I remember my friend, Elsie.  Our fathers were old friends from their bachelor days.  We didn’t hear stories of that time. Elsie’s house had a second floor and I thought that was about as good as having two houses.  

These are some of my earliest memories and there are fragments of others lurking here and there.  However, the small puncture wound scar on my right hand where my grandmother Kolody’s snarly yowl bit me is a vivid reminder of my earliest memory.

[storiesfromafan]

Look Who's Jealous Now - Benny x Reader

A/N: I was surprised by the amount of interest in the sneak peak I posted got. Thank you all!! Forgive any grammer or spelling mistakes 😅

Previous part: Jealousy Does Look Good On You 😊

Also, I posted this challenge. Feel free to check it out and make a request 😊😊

Tag list: @strayrockette @thegabbyh

Being Benny's girl meant being by his side, arm around you or his jacket. His stormy blue eyes seeking you out in the bar, sparkling when finding you sitting with Kathy or other Vandal women. Him picking you up after work. And taking you for rides on his bike.

Which led to today's Vandal ride. A group of you going to a car show. Those that didn't ride, gave the bikers looks of disgust or distaste. All the while, other biker clubs gave some sign of recognition. You found it all fascinating, how bike owners and car owners didn’t get along. But there were a few exceptions.

You were sitting on a blanket with a few other women, Benny was standing near by with Johnny in conversation. Both men drink in hand and laughing at something Johnny said. You smiled at your man, admiring the boyish smile on his face, or when he'd laugh. Then those eyes were looking at you, as if he'd felt your gaze on him. Benny gave you a soft warm smile, which had you melting.

“Give it a rest, will ya" jested Betty, pushing your shoulder.

Braking eye contact with Benny, you looked back to the older woman, as well as Kathy and Gale as they laughed at you. After that night a month ago, hearing what happened with Benny after you took off. The women had teased you on and off. And every time you and Benny gave each other the goo-goo eyes, one of them told you to give it a rest. You couldn't help it, you were in the early stages of this relationship.

“Sorry my happiness offends ya" you retorted sticking your tongue out.

Once more the women laughed, this time you joined in with them. You felt light and happy. From both the women around you, but also because of Benny. If someone had told you a month ago this was what was install for you, you wouldn’t have believed them. Right now you were happy, even if the road to get here was crazy.

Benny watched how you laughed with the other women. Smiling happily that you were having a good time. For him this month has felt like being on the open road, content and freeing. Finally making you his girl made him feel complete. But also, part of him still felt bad for upsetting you that night. It wasn’t his intentions when being around Angela. But he didn’t feel bad for using her to bait your outburst. He liked that you’d been jealous, made him feel good to know you wanted him, just as much as he wanted you.

“Stop it with the goo-goo eyes, will ya” Johnny said with a roll of his eyes, bringing Benny’s attention back to the older man. “Ya makin’ me sick, kid”. He joked with a laugh.

Benny laughed, sticking his free hand in his jeans pockets. “Whatever old man".

Johnny smile warmly at the younger Vandal. “Nuh, I’m happy for ya, both of ya. It was ‘bout time ya made her ya girl. You’d both been tippy-toein’ around it".

Benny felt embarrassed hearing those words. Because it was true. But you were different to all the other girls – women – for Benny didn’t want to show off and take you just on a ride of his bike. That would have been to easy. That’s why he spent the time with you, talking with you. He wanted to know you. And he did. But then he got nervous and somewhat shy to ask you out. He found himself second guessing himself.

Benny told you that, opening up to you as best her could. And since then you have done everything to reassure him that you wanted him. If you could tell Benny was starting to doubt or second guess himself, you’d be there, doing everything to show him he was good enough or right. Then when it came to you, Benny was pushing you out of your comfort zone also. The best example of that was when you’d ride with him. He’d go so fast on the open road that you would be cursing, telling him to slow down. But he’d always say you’ve got nothin' to worry about sweetheart, I won’t let anythin' happen to ya. And you would believe him. You always will.

“Yeah...she’s really somethin'" Benny said with pride, his eyes going back to you.

You got up from your spot on the blanket, along with Kathy. You both needed to use the restroom. The short walk was filled with conversation and laughter. Kathy being one of the women you were closest too. You thought she was nice and honest, no beating around the bush with her.

After doing what you both had too, you began to walk back to the others, only taking your time to look at the cars in passing. Neither of you knew much to do with cars, but you admired their looks.

“Such a nice colour" Kathy commented on the current car you were both looking at.

You nodded. “It really is, bet she sounds good too".

“You should see her on the road" came a familiar male voice from behind you.

You turned around in shock to see your old family friend Victor. You smiled brightly, taking in how he had changed since you had seen him last, which was before he went back to college. He looked fitter, and tanner. No doubt from playing football. He was the boy next door mixed with jock.

“Victor! My gosh!” You said with amazement, before moving to give him a quick hug. “How have ya been?”

Victor laughed as he hugged you back. You stepped back and looked at him with amazement. Remembering Kathy by your side, you apologized and introduced the two. Victor shook Kathy’s hand with a warm smile, as he said hello. Kathy looked between you too, finding it all to amusing to see you both reuniting.

Unfortunately for you, someone else had been watching. Benny had seen you and Kathy making your way back, but stopping to admire different cars. He smiled at how cute you were. He was making his way to you when he saw the athletic young man step up. And then watched the surprise on your face before you both shared a brief hug.

It left a sour taste in Benny’s mouth, seeing you smile and talk to this guy. And usually he’d find your sheepishness cute – when it’s aimed at him – but he strongly disliked it when it came to this guy. He asked himself who was this guy, anyways?

Slowly Benny crept forward, catching the end of whatever you’d been saying to Kathy.

“...our families have been so close, especially after Victor" – so that’s his name, Benny thought – “and my brother played together on the football team. Guess you went on to play college ball, huh?” You softly laughed, looking to Victor.

Yep, Benny didn’t like this guy. He did not like the preppy look of him. And he really didn’t like how you were all smiles and giddy. Dare he say, Benny Cross was jealous of the guy you were with? Yes, a hundred percent he was.

Stepping up to you, as your back was to him, Benny put his arm around you. Drawing you close before putting a kiss to your temple, all the while staring down Victor. “Hey sweetheart" he greeted with his deep voice.

You jumped before realising who it was. Relaxing, you turned to Benny with a bright smile. Leaning up to place a peck to the corner of his lips. “Hey".

Once you moved your head back you noticed that Benny’s gaze was focused on Victor, his eyes drawn in and sharp on the young male. Whom was standing there looking at Benny, with a smile upon his face, not a care in the world. You shot Kathy a confused look, which she shrugged at. Though you both could feel some kind of tension between the two males.

“Ah, I think I’ll head back” Kathy slowly said, deciding to remove herself from the situation.

You shot her a sour look before she took off. Leaving you with the two males from and in your life. Neither male looked away from the other. You guessed Benny was staking his claim to you, as he probably didn’t know who Victor was. And Victor, being like a big brother, was working out if Benny was good enough.

“Well...” you said clearing your voice. “Benny, this Victor, an old friend to my family. Victor, this Benny, my boyfriend".

You looked a little shock after calling Benny your boyfriend. That word never leaving your lips before. Sure, you’d called him it in your head. You felt a warmth rise in your chest after voicing what Benny was to you. As you were known as Benny’s girl. With a silly smile upon your face you turned to your boyfriend, placing a hand on his chest. Which seemed to get Benny’s attention.

Looking to you, he was greeted to the sight of you smiling up at him. Seeing that silly smile warmed his heart, almost making him forget the man who’d hugged you. He could see a twinkle in your eyes, like something perked you up more. Whatever it was, Benny liked it and always wanted you be like this.

Victor cleared his throat. “It’s nice to meet you".

Both you and Benny turned to face Victor. “Yeah, nice to meet ya". That pointed looked back on Benny's  face as he looked to the man before him.

Victor nodded his head. “Well, as I mentioned before, this car" – he moved to stand by his car – “is amazing on the road. I’ll have to take you for a ride, hey cupcake".

You rolled your eyes at the old nickname, but bashfully smiled. “Vic...not that nickname. Let it die, please”.

Victor laughs at your words. “I will never let it go, cupcake”.

You moved forward and swatted Victor’s arm, making him laugh more. And then you laughed as well. All the while Benny watched the playfulness between you too, and not liking it one bit. Especially when Victor put his hand on your arm, holding firmly to stop you once and for all. The way this guy looked at you, the familiarity and warmth. It was off putting for Benny. This guy, even if he’s an old family friend, having his hand on you and looking at your warmly, ticked him off. That green eyed monster rising.

“How about that drive sometime?” Victor’s voice brought Benny back to the matter at hand, the male speaking.

“Ah, yeah. That would be” – you looked to Benny, but am surprised to see the unfriendly look directed to Victor – “...great". Great coming out unsure.

Your old friends face lit up when you agreed, not noticing the uncertainty in your voice. Going on about where you both should take a drive too. All the while you were unsure on how Benny was taking all this. Though with every passing moment that look seems to get darker, and getting annoyed.

That’s when it hit you. Benjamin Cross was jealous. Jealous of your old family friend Victor. Turning back to Victor, you couldn’t help the wicked little smile that crossed your lips. Now would be the best time to give your boyfriend a taste of his own medicine. Finally you could show him how you felt when he spent time with Angela.

“I don’t mind where we go" you replied, placing a hand on Victor’s arm. “As long as you can open that car up".

Benny’s gazed moved to you, not impressed with your reply.

“Of course! She’s made to go fast" Victor laughed.

You continued to smile, looking at Victor. You both talk about his car, you asking any and every question you can think of. All the while feeling the dark cloud that was Benny behind you.

And oh Benny was not enjoying the attention you were giving this guy. Nor did he like the way Victor was smiling at you. He knew he was an old family friend, friends with your brother. But a small part of him wondered if you had ever had a crush on him. If Victor had liked you. Did either of you act on it. Was there hand holding and cuddling. Or did you ever kiss. Every thought making the jealousy in him grown.

Then he did it. Victor held your hand as he led you around behind his car. Leaving Benny standing there seething. This guy had the audacity to take your hand and lead you away from him. Benny’s hands clenched for a moment, before he unclenched them, for he had to control this anger, to control the want to lay hands on this man. He wouldn’t – couldn’t do that, for you would not forgive him if he did.

Next minute he heard your loud giggle. That was it. Snapping out of it Benny made his way to you both. You were leaning against the back of the car, still in conversation with Victor, who stood too close to you with that charming smile. With a small growl, Benny walked over between the two of you. Victor taking a few steps back.

“Benny?” You asked confused and concerned at the annoyed look on your boyfriend’s face. “What’s wrong?”

“Everything alright?” Asked Victor, which made Benny turn and glared at him.

Without a word Benny pulled you from your leaning position. And without an ounce of trouble, he picked you up so you were over his shoulder. You let out a surprised yelp. After realising what had just happened you started to hit at Benny’s back and saying for him to put me down. But it fell on deaf ears, as your boyfriend then stomped off, back towards his bike.

“Ah, sorry Vic!” You called, throwing him a slight wave.

The man you’d just called to looked at you with a shocked expression, returning your wave awkwardly. With every step you continued to hit Benny’s back and repeating your demand to be put down.

“What is ya problem!?” You practically yelled, now gaining an audience as you both moved on.

Benny huffed. “Had enough of him" was his gruff reply.

You blinked, taking a pause from hitting your boyfriend. “Come again?” You asked in confusion.

“I said, I had enough of him" Benny stated, like it was fact.

“Hmm" you hummed.

You took a moment to let his words sink in. As well as his actions. You smiled at your jealous boyfriend, before starting to laugh. Your plan looked to have worked. You got under his skin. You practically cackled, which had Benny questioning you on what’s up with ya?

You smiled brightly. “My, my, my. Looks who’s jealous now, huh?” And again you laughed.

Benny huffed, jostling you on his shoulder, silencing you. He smirked at that. Though it didn’t last for long. As you began to sing that he was jealous. Reaching his bike Benny planted you back on your feet, met with a big grin on your face.

“Admit it, you were jealous~” you sang.

Benny rolled his eyes, but feeling embarrassed by the weight of your attention on him. Yes, he was jealous. And a small part of him feared it could be the start of loosing you. You noticed how Benny looked away, his eyes looking worried. Your smile dropped. You stepped closer seeing how worried he was. You brought your hands up, cupping his face and turning his gaze back to you.

“Hey, you have nothin' to worry about" you said softly, eyes boring into his beautiful baby blues. “If ya think I’d want Vic, no chance. I want my bike riding Vandal any day".

Hearing those words, Benny let out a breath he didn’t realise he’d been holding. His eyes softening, the worry slowly leaving. Replaced with warmth and endearment for you, which is everything you had for him.

You pulled Benny’s face towards yours, the Vandal not putting up a fight. You brought his lips to yours in a soft, tender kiss. A reassurance he needed, and felt from you. Wrapping an arm around you, Benny drew you in close. You smiled at how needy he could be at times. But you wouldn’t push it away or say no.

Pulling back you looked at your man. “I still can’t believe ya got jealous" you giggled.

Benny groaned, hiding his face in your crook of your neck which only made your giggle turn into a laugh. Retaliating, Benny began to nip at your neck. Which earned him a small squeal from him, and a playful slap to his shoulder. You both laughing at it all.

“Yeah, I’ll admit I was jealous, happy?” Benny muttered against your skin.

Smiling triumphantly you said, “good...now ya know how I felt".

[subikshafoods]

Best Paneer In Tamilnadu- Quick and Easy Snack Ideas for Any Occasion Part 1

Paneer is a popular Indian cheese and a versatile ingredient that can be used to create delicious snacks for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, want a quick meal or a delicious snack, these quick and easy paneer recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, let’s explore some mouth-watering snack ideas with the Best paneer in Tamilnadu!

Paneer Kathy Rolls: A wrap of goodness

If you are looking for a snack that is filling and easy to grab on the go, Paneer Kathy Rolls are the perfect choice. Saute paneer cubes with onions, bell peppers and aromatic masala mixture. Spread the mint chutney on a roti or paratha and place the paneer puran inside. Roll it up tightly and secure it with a toothpick. These rolls are not only delicious but also make an attractive appetizer at a party.

Paneer Stuffed Roti Pakoras: A twist on the traditional Pakora

If you love the classic Indian snack, pakoras, you’ll love these paneer-stuffed roti pakoras. Stuff the crumbled paneer, masala and herb mixture between two pieces of bread. Dip the stuffed sandwiches in a besan batter and deep fry until golden and crispy. These pakoras are an irresistible combination of crispy roti and delicious paneer.

Finally, we’ve looked at two popular paneer snacks that are quick and easy to make, so you can impress your guests with these quick and easy new paneer snack ideas or enjoy a satisfying snack for yourself. From delicious paneer kathi rolls to paneer stuffed bread pakoras, there is a snack for every occasion. Try these recipes and enjoy the goodness in every bite with the Best paneer in Tamilnadu. So, get cooking today and enjoy these delicious snacks!

Find us inside Subiksha Foods at No 110 A, Bypass Road, Bethaniyapuram, Opp Babu Sharkar Marriage Mahal, Madurai — 625016, or call us at +91 80567 44906. You will be able to browse our website at https://subikshafoods.in/ for details.

#InstantChapatiMadurai #InstantPooriMadurai #InstantParathaMadurai #WholeWheatParathaMadurai #IdlyDosaMavunearmemadurai #idli dosa maavu in madurai #Readymade Poori Madurai #Readymade Paratha Madurai #Readymade Whole Wheat Paratha Madurai #Readymade Idly Dosa Mavu near me madurai #Readymade idli dosa maavu in madurai #Readymade Chapati Madurai #InstantChapati #ReadyToCookChapati #SemiCookedChapati #ReadymadeChapati #ReadyMadePoori #InstantPoori #ReadyMadePuri #SemiCookedPoori #ReadyToCookPoori #ReadyToCookPuri #SemiCookedPuri #InstantParatha #ReadyToCookParatha #SemiCookedParatha #ReadymadeParatha #ReadyToCookParota #SemiCookedParota #ReadymadeParota #WholeWheatParatha #ReadyMadeWheatParatha #SemiCookedWheatParatha #IdlyDosaMavu #IdlyDosaBatter #Curd #Thirunagar3rdstop #Thirunagar6thstop #Vedarpuliyankulam #Thirunagar4thstop #Thanakankulammainroad #Thirunagar4thstop #SRVnagarharveypatti #Thirunagar #Mahaboobpalayam #Sscolony #Vanamamalinagar #Nehrunagar #Karimedu #Nearmathitheatre #Melaponnagaram #Neardinamalarofficechockalinganagar #Athikulammainroad #Bankcolony #Iyerbungalowmainroad #EBcolonystreet #Nearkarthiktheatre #survivorcolony #Pudurbusstop #Pudur #Mahatmagandhinagar #Valluvarcolony #Vishwanathapuram #Umatchikulam #Thirupalai #TVSnagar #Jeevanagar #Villapuramhousingboard #Agriniapartment #Avaniyapuram #Subramaniyapurammarket #Palanganatham #Annanagar #Gomathipuram #Karupayurani #KKnagar #Othakadai #Koodalnagar #Sikkandarchavadi #Anaiyur #Basingapuram #Alankulam #Alankulam #Panagadi #Kulamangalam #Palamedu #Alanganallur #Nagamalai #Kochadai #Thenimainroad #HMScolony #Vellichamynadarschool #MKUuniversity #Nearsaravanahospital #BBkulammenambalmainroad #Reserveline #Sellur #bestgheeproduct #bestghee #gheeatitsbestquality #bestqualityghee #bestgheeinmadurai #bestgheeintamilnadu #pureghee #puregheeinmadurai #puregheeintamilnadu #purestformofghee #purequalityghee #bestgheeforfoods #bestgheeforfood #bestgheeforcooking #bestgheeforbiriyani #bestgheeforsweets #puregheeforfoods #puregheeforfood #purgheeforbiriyani #puregheeforsweets #tastiestghee #tastiestgheeinmadurai #tastiestgheeintamilnadu #bestgheeforladdu #puregheeforladdu #bestgheeforhalva #puregheeforhalva #bestgheeformysorepak #puregheeformysorepak #bestgheeforjalebi #puregheeforjalebi #bestgheefordosa #bestgheeforgheeroast #puregheefordosa #puregheeforgheeroast #bestgheeforpongal #puregheeforpongal #bestgheeforhalwa #puregheeforhalwa #halva #halwa #ghee #pongal #dosa #gheeroast #jalebi #cooking #laddu #sweets #purestghee #healthyghee #healthiestghee #gheeatlowcost #lowcostghee #bestlowcostghee #bestgheeforgheeproducts #bestgheeforgheefoods #bestgheeforkesari #kesari #purecurd #bestcurd #bestcurdforcooking #bestcookingcurd #bestcookingcurdinmadurai #tastiestcurd #healthycurd #healthiestgcurd #creamycurd #bestcreamycurd #bestcurdinmadurai #bestcurdintamilnadu #bestcreamycurdinmadurai #tastycurdinmadurai #purecurdinmadurai #bitterfreecurd #bestcowmilkcurd #bestbuffalomilkcurd #flavourfreecurd #offodorcurd #bestflatcurd #bestqualitycurd #curdatlowcost #lowcostcurd #bestlowcostcurd #bestcurdcompany #bestcurdcompanyinmadurai #bestcurdproductinmadurai #bestcurdproduct #bestcurdsupply #bestcurdsupplyinmadurai #bestpaneer #bestpaneerinmadurai #bestqualitypaneer #bestpaneeratlowcost #tastypaneer #tastiestpaneerinmadurai #bestpaneerproduct #bestpaneercompany #bestpaneercompanyinmadurai #bestpaneerproductinmadurai #bestpaneerproduct #bestpaneersupply #bestpaneersupplyinmadurai #bestpaneerintamilnadu #unsaltedpaneer #bestunsaltedpaneer #bestunsaltedpaneerinmadurai #bestpaneerforpaneerbuttermasala #bestpaneerforpaneertikka #paneerbuttermasala #paneertikka #paneerpulao #bestpaneerforpaneerpulao #purepaneer #purepaneerinmadurai #purequalitypaneer #purequalitypaneerinmadurai #bestpaneerforcooking #bestpaneerforfoods #bestdairyproducts #bestdairyproductsinmadurai #subiksha #subikshafoods #subikshadairyproducts #dairyproducts

[chhedadry123]

What are the benefits of eating Indian snacks?

Written By - Chhedadryfruits

Everyone’s favorite way to get protein is by eating protein snacks. Indian snacks are usually snacks that contain protein, so they are ideal for those who are looking for a healthy snack option. Typically, protein snacks include nuts and seeds, fish and shrimp, eggs, and of course, chickpea flour. If you’re not a big fan of nuts and seeds or you’ve been told to limit them, consider the following Indian snacks as your replacement Best Snacks home delivery near me:

How to eat Indian snacks?

There are many different ways to eat Indian snacks. The key is to pile on the protein while leaving the rest of the food alone. This means you must choose your snack wisely. You don’t want to eat too much protein at one time, as this may lead to a bulky stomach. Try to eat your snacks about an hour or two before your daily workout to ensure you get the most protein from them. You can mix and match your Indian snacks to suit your taste. For example, you can try adding some cheese or nuts to a kathi roll or prawn cracker. You can also mix and match your Indian snacks to suit your diet.

Paneer Wrap/Kathi Roll

If you’re looking for a quick and easy snack, look no further. The paneer wrap or kathi roll is a nice way to enjoy the benefits of Indian snacks. It’s filled with protein and fiber, making it a great choice for a post-workout snack. While it’s not advisable to eat the entire wrap at once, you can break the roll into smaller pieces and feed it to your pet after you finish your workout.

Prawn crackers

A snack made from prawns, prawn crackers are another easy-to-eat Indian snack. Although they are high in calories, they contain essential minerals and vitamins that your body needs. You can add them to your salad, or eat them by themselves for a savory snack.

Idlis and Dosa

If you’re looking for a snack with a little more flavor, the idlis or dosas are the snack for you. Although they are somewhat sweet, they contain a good amount of protein and are perfect for after a workout or for when you’re stressed out. Try eating one plain or with sesamkhol chutney (a spicy chutney) to reap the full flavor.

Baked Samosa (Stuffed with Spicy Chicken)

One of the most popular Indian snacks, the baked samosa has become a guilty pleasure of sorts. Although they are filled with carbohydrates, baked samosas are a healthy alternative to potato chips. This is because they have less fat and calories than regular potato chips, making them a better option for those with a heart condition or reduced calorie intake.

Churros (Sweet, crispy snack made from churro bread)

This is another easy-to-eat Indian snack that you may have seen in ads for healthier eating. Churros are filled with carbohydrates and calories, so consider these snacks a treat after your workout or for a mid-day snack.

Wraps with a scoop of protein (Chilli Paneer Wrap, Baked Samosa, Prawn Crackers)

This is another easy-to-eat Indian snack that you may have seen in ads for healthier eating. Although you don’t want to eat the entire thing, you can break the wrap into smaller pieces and feed it to your pet after you finish your workout.

Idli and Dosa

If you’re looking for a filling snack, try adding some dosa to your lunch or dinner. Although they are not a healthy snack on their own, dosa is a great source of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber.

Baked Samosa (Stuffed with Spicy Chicken)

This is another easy-to-eat Indian snack that you may have seen in ads for healthier eating. Although you don’t want to eat the entire thing, you can break the samosa into smaller pieces and feed it to your pet after you finish your workout.

Churros (Sweet, crispy snack made from churro bread)

This is another easy-to-eat Indian snack that you may have seen in ads for healthier eating. Although you don’t want to eat the entire thing, you can break the churro into smaller pieces and feed it to your pet after you finish your workout.

Wraps with a scoop of protein (Chilli Paneer Wrap, Baked Samosa, Prawn Crackers)

This is another easy-to-eat Indian snack that you may have seen in ads for healthier eating. Although you don’t want to eat the entire thing, you can break the wrap into smaller pieces and feed it to your pet after you finish your workout.

Idli and Dosa

If you’re looking for a filling snack, try adding some dosa to your lunch or dinner. Although they are not a healthy snack on their own, dosa is a great source of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber.

Baked Samosa (Stuffed with Spicy Chicken)

This is another easy-to-eat Indian snack that you may have seen in ads for healthier eating. Although you don’t want to eat the entire thing, you can break the samosa into smaller pieces and feed it to your pet after you finish your workout.

Churros (Sweet, crispy snack made from churro bread)

This is another easy-to-eat Indian snack that you may have seen in ads for healthier eating. Although you don’t want to eat the entire thing, you can break the churro into smaller pieces and feed it to your pet after you finish your workout.

Wraps with a scoop of protein (Chilli Paneer Wrap, Baked Samosa, Prawn Crackers)

This is another easy-to-eat Indian snack that you may have seen in ads for healthier eating. Although you don’t want to eat the entire thing, you can break the wrap into smaller pieces and feed it to your pet after you finish your workout.

Idli and Dosa

If you’re looking for a filling snack, try adding some dosa to your lunch or dinner. Although they are not a healthy snack on their own, dosa is a great source of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber.

Baked Samosa (Stuffed with Spicy Chicken)

This is another easy-to-eat Indian snack that you may have seen in ads for healthier eating. Although you don’t want to eat the entire thing, you can break the samosa into smaller pieces and feed it to your pet after you finish your workout.

Churros (Sweet, crispy snack made from churro bread)

This is another easy-to-eat Indian snack that you may have seen in ads for healthier eating. Although you don’t want to eat the entire thing, you can break the churro into smaller pieces and feed it to your pet after you finish your workout.

Wraps with a scoop of protein (Chilli Paneer Wrap, Baked Samosa, Prawn Crackers)

This is another easy-to-eat Indian snack that you may have seen in ads for healthier eating. Although you don’t want to eat the entire thing, you can break the wrap into smaller pieces and feed it to

Google Map - https://goo.gl/maps/dhLQFrgmbLVZNZ5o6

[stranger-marauders]

unbreakable

eleven: the consultation

chapter summary: After Barbara is declared officially missing, the police want to talk to each person that was at Steve's party, including Kate.

chapter warnings: language, sibling loss, allusions to abuse, parental issues if you squint, steve being a bad friend

word count: 3.4k

series masterlist | masterlist

RIGHT BEFORE THEIR first period class had officially ended, Steve leaned against Kate's desk, trying to grab her attention before the bell rang.

She, however, had already gotten herself situated with her newest book, The Name of the Rose, opening to the page she last left off on before he'd even gotten out of his own seat. She tried to block him out, hoping that he'd take the hint that she, currently, was extremely busy trying to solve the murder mystery before the novel ended. However, a book wouldn't be near enough to turn him away.

"You weren't at your house this morning when I came to pick you up."

She didn't look up from her book.

"And you didn't come to my game yesterday."

She still didn't look up at him.

"So I'm guessing you're still mad at me?"

She finally looked up at him, then looked back down after only a second. "Obviously."

He sighed, rolling his eyes. He immediately regretted it but was more than glad that she still hadn't looked up to see it. "Yeah, well, can you call a truce or something for a minute, because this is actually kind of important."

She looked back up to Steve, placing her bookmark inside her book without even setting it down on the desk in front of her. "All right. Go."

He sighed again. He didn't know what her deal was. He wanted to ask her why she was so angry with him, why she wouldn't speak to him. He knew it must have been more than just the camera at this point—he wanted to ask more than anything, but he knew he couldn't. Not right now. "Right. So, Nancy's friend, Barbara? She's missing. Like, actually missing. She still hasn't come home, and the last place anyone saw her was Tuesday night at my place, so now the police want to talk to everyone that was there, including you."

"Gee, thanks for the warning, I'm so surprised the police want to talk to us—"

"I'm not warning you about the cops. I'm just... I'm just asking you not to tell them about the beers. And that wine we opened. Especially not the wine. If my dad found out—"

"Are you serious right now?" Kate asked, slamming her book down on the table. "You're asking me to not only lie to save your sorry ass, but lie to the police, my dad? What the hell has gotten into you?"

Steve had been caught off guard. His heart pounded as she spoke: she really had been angry at him. He was almost scared of her—he couldn't recall a time where she'd been that angry at anyone besides her parents, not even Tommy and Carol the day before. "Kathy, come on. You know better than anyone that my dad's a total asshole, and he would be even more of an ass if he found out about that."

Kate diverted her eyes away from him, trying to think of something else to say.

Steve hadn't been sugarcoating it whenever he called his father an asshole. She could recall the countless times when he had gotten into arguments with his father over his grades, sports, anything. Nothing was ever good enough for him, and Steve's father hadn't even had enough compassion for his son to do it in private: she couldn't even name all the times that his father had berated him in front of her, and instead of his mother putting a stop to it, Kate had to take matters into her own hands (in the most respectful way possible, of course, because she didn't want his father to cut Steve off from her completely). She remembered the times when Steve had come to school or her house and the markings on him were "just an accident," even though she knew all too well where they had come from over the years. She even took care of a few of the nastier-looking ones from time to time, making sure they didn't get infected or didn't scar, because that would have just made everything worse. It was one of the few unsaid things between the two of them, and Steve, more than anything, appreciated it, even if he hadn't said so out loud. Kate knew that even if her father wasn't exactly the parent of the year, at least he wasn't that.

That, however, didn't stop her for more than a few seconds to remember that Barbara had had nothing to drink.

"It was a couple of beers. If anything, you should be worried about your new girlfriend's best friend. I mean, seriously? A kid was found dead yesterday and you're worried about a couple of goddamn beers?" She scoffed, putting her things back into her tote bag. "Show a little class, Steve."

Before he could reply, the bell for next period rang. As she threw her bag over her shoulder and walked out of the room, Steve called her name, running after her until he lost her in the sea of people in the hallway.

Kate had explained the entire situation to Jamie at lunch before his friends had sat down with them.

She had a good time at lunch with them. She would have thought that Jamie's friends would have all been nerdy, either the band type or the Dungeons & Dragons type, but they weren't. A couple of them were on the baseball team, which also led her to find out that Jamie played baseball until he was in seventh grade. Apparently, the only reason he quit was that he broke his leg and needed surgery. His friends, however, had never left him behind, and Jamie still went to each and every baseball game to support them.

At another table in the cafeteria, Steve sat with Tommy, Carol, and Nancy, only focusing on Kate. He could see her from where he was sitting, watching her carefully as she smiled and laughed—it made his heart hurt. Even if she didn't say much at all during lunch, the fact that she wasn't even there felt foreign. It made him feel like something was seriously wrong, yet he didn't know what he could have possibly done.

For the first time in a long time, Kate's heart sank slightly whenever the bell for fifth period rang, meaning she had to leave them behind. She let Jamie walk her to class, more specifically so she didn't have the possibility of having another Steve interaction before her inevitable police interview came. She couldn't talk to him again. She just couldn't.

It had been toward the end of her calculus class that the principal had come to take her to her interview.

She didn't know why she was so nervous. The closer she got to the gym, which was where they had set up tables to have the interview, the more and more her stomach twisted into knots, making her feel uneasy. She hated that Steve had wrapped her up in all of this; she'd told him she didn't want to go, why didn't he just listen to her? He didn't understand that this was so much worse for her than it was for him, and that was for one reason and one reason alone.

Whenever she walked into the gym, the principal had let her go off on her own, walking over to the table with Hopper, Powell, and Callahan already in their seats, Powell and Callahan sitting across from Hopper. Her father had changed into a jacket and flannel of his, apparently attempting to make this situation a lot less awkwardly than it already was. She couldn't remember the last time she had seen him out of uniform: it must've been ages ago.

Hopper wasn't exactly thrilled about the situation, either. He knew Kate didn't know anything about Barbara Holland or her disappearance: if she did, she would've told him by now, even if it implicated her and Steve in the process. He knew, however, that it was something that had to be done, especially if they were going to interview the other kids at the party. That was why Hopper removed himself from the case completely, at least for now—Kate's name would be all over the place.

The worst part about the interview wasn't that Kate was being questioned. For Hopper, it was that he had to sit and watch on the other side of things as his boys questioned his kid. He knew the way they interviewed, all the little tricks they had to get kids to cooperate. Hopper had thought both of them, and it was about to bite him in the ass.

"So, why exactly were you at this party?" Powell asked once Kate had sat down.

"I wouldn't really call it a party. It was more of a get-together, really," she replied, anxiety lacing her voice. "But, uh, Steve invited me. Steve Harrington. Tommy Hagan and Carol Perkins were there, and two sophomores Steve invited were there too, which were Nancy Wheeler and Barbara Holland." She paused, realizing how ridiculous she sounded overexplaining things. "But I'm assuming you guys knew that already."

A big lump formed in her throat, butterflies in her stomach. She hated this so much already and it hadn't even started yet. Just the thought of being questioned by Callahan and Powell, two guys she'd known personally for years now, made her brain want to explode. She wanted all of it to be over already.

"You're good, Kate. If we need you to elaborate, we'll ask for it." Powell paused, trying to decide on his next question. "Could you tell us exactly what happened that night?"

She almost laughed. Since she had shaken her hangover the day before, she had slowly started to remember some of the things that had happened that night, but not much of anything that would be useful to the Hawkins Police Department to try and find Barb. At that moment, she thanked herself for asking Steve about that Tuesday night—drunk Kate sounded like a blast, but she wasn't very useful during a police investigation.

Now though, more than ever, she wished she remembered what her and Barbara had talked about that night. Kate had been so wasted by the time she had talked to Barbara that she still hadn't remembered it fully, most of it being hazy. She didn't know if it could help figure out where she was, but even if it wasn't, she wanted to know. She remembered a sentence or two here and there, but only one full sentence had bounced around in her head: "I think you know what I mean." Kate didn't know if she'd known what Barbara was referencing when she was drunk, but she certainly didn't know now. She only hoped that Steve was right about her memory loss and that it would come back sooner or later.

"You're good, Kate," Hopper said softly. "Take your time."

She nodded, taking a deep breath before she went on. "Yeah. Yeah, so, I was the first one there. Kind of. I–I just went home with him so I didn't have to come back. Steve, w–with Steve, I mean. I–It was just me and him for a while. Tommy and Carol showed up around seven, and at, like, eight, Barbara and Nancy arrived. Then we were just sitting outside, and at one point, everyone got in the pool but Barbara. I never saw her leave, so it's possible she left without Nancy."

"Where did you go after you got out of the pool?"

"Oh, I–I went upstairs. My clothes were all wet, so I just went to go change out of them and go to bed."

"And where was that, exactly?" Callahan asked. She couldn't tell if he was asking because it pertained to the investigation or if it was to settle personal curiosity. 

"I, uh... The guest bedroom. It's on the second floor."

Callahan nodded, satisfied with her answers.

"I'm sorry, I just don't have anything about Barbara," Kate said, pulling it back to the real thing that mattered. "I mean, I talked to her maybe once that night, but that's it. I'd never even talked to those two girls before Tuesday."

Powell nodded, racking his thoughts for another question. "Do you think Barbara could have been jealous of Nancy?"

She almost laughed. Wrong girl.

"Kate?"

"Oh, uh—no. No, I don't, uh... I don't think Barbara likes Steve at all, really. I think she was more upset that he was stealing her best friend away from her." In a way, she was almost talking about herself—Steve didn't need her anymore, nor had he in a long, long time.

Kate shrugged. "Nancy forced her to go, I'm assuming." She paused again. "I don't know, all I know is that Barbara did not want to be there. She was Nancy's ride, so I'd assume she knows much more about that than I do. I'd ask her if she knows anything about her plans, things like that."

"Plans?"

She hesitated. "You know, after high school. More likely than not, if all she talks about is leaving Hawkins, the party and a bad conversation with Nancy could've convinced her to run away."

Powell chuckled. "She really is your kid, Chief."

Hopper sighed. "Yeah, tell me about it."

Jonathan had called the school to ask Kate if she could accompany him to the funeral home.

Of course, Kate had accepted. Once her questioning had ended, she had asked her father to take her to the funeral home. At first, Hopper had given her an odd look—why the hell would she be going to a funeral home? Whenever he thought about Jonathan, though, and the connection that he and his daughter now oddly shared, he didn't question it, especially not after the conversation he'd had with the boy that morning about his mother at the morgue. Kaet didn't want him to go through the death of a sibling alone, and he wasn't going to take that away from her. He definitely wouldn't have wanted to do something like that by himself.

The car ride with her dad had been significantly less awkward than any she'd experienced within the past couple of years. 

"You did good today, kid," Hopper said to her whenever they pulled out of the school. "You maybe wanna tell me what else happened that night?"

Kate hesitated, her eyebrows furrowing together. "What are you talking about? I told them—"

"You're gonna tell me you went to a hangout like that and there wasn't any beer?" Hopper asked.

Kate's mouth instinctively fell open in shock, which immediately made Hopper chuckle. "How'd you know?"

"Believe it or not, I was a kid once, too," he replied, sighing softly. "I don't know, just... something else seemed to be bothering you. Figured it wasn't just about that girl."

She hesitated to go on. She couldn't believe she was talking to her dad about this and he actually seemed to care. "Yeah, it wasn't. It just—It doesn't matter, okay? Seriously, I'm fine."

"Katie, you don't seem fine."

"I just..." Kate cut herself off with a sigh, shaking her head. Maybe it was time to finally let her father in, just a little bit. "All right, if I'm going to tell you about this, there have to be some ground rules in place."

"Ground rules?" Hopper asked, almost concerned. "Jesus, you guys didn't kill that girl, did you?"

"No, what the hell?" she asked, concern lacing her voice. "No, no, that's not—" She cut herself off, shaking her head. "No, okay, first, we are setting some ground rules."

Hopper nodded, finally caving. "All right, fine. Ground rules."

"Anything I tell you willingly, I can't get in trouble for."

"That's a bullshit rule."

"If I'm confiding in you about something I'm upset about, it is absolutely not a bullshit rule."

Hopper shook his head. "Fine. Second ground rule: watch your language. You're way too smart to be using words like that."

She shrugged, not daring to call him a hypocrite. "I don't think so, but I do have another ground rule." She paused, thinking about how she wanted to word it. "These can extend to you, too, you know. Like, if I suddenly get all nosey in your personal life and you want me to... butt out, or something."

"All right, what is it?"

"You're allowed to ask all the questions you want, but that doesn't mean you're going to get an answer for them."

Hopper hesitated to agree to that one at first, partially because it was such a general rule. He quickly remembered all the random hookups that he partook in from time to time, not to mention the dates he went on with women such as the town librarian, so he figured that he would possibly need to cash in that ground rule usage every once in a while. "All right, we're sticking with those three?"

Kate nodded. "Perfect." She took a deep breath, starting to tell the story of her first hangover, conveniently leaving out details about her stripping and the sudden realization that she was in love with Steve Harrington (which still made her want to vomit).

Hopper, however, took in every word that she said like it was her last: he had finally made the connection with his daughter that he had always wanted, and he had no plans on breaking it off again.

Whenever Kate had finally arrived at the funeral home, the funeral director had shown them many coffins.

As he took them around the viewing room, he spoke softly, almost as if he was trying to keep Jonathan from falling off the edge. "It's made of soft wood with a crepe interior. Uh, now, I... I don't know what your budget is, but over here, we... we have copper and bronze."

Jonathan sighed as he and Kate started to walk to the next casket, but they both noticed none other than Nancy Wheeler standing in the doorway of the room.

"Can you just... give us a second?" Jonathan asked the funeral home director after looking at Kate.

"Of course."

Jonathan and Kate walked over to her. "Hey."

"Hey," Nancy said back softly. "Your mom, um... she said you'd be here. I just..." She took a deep breath. "Can we talk for a second?"

Once they were in the hallway, Nancy pulled out a previously ripped, but now taped-up photograph, the one she'd taken the day before, and handed it to Jonathan.

"It looks like it could be some kind of perspective distortion, but I wasn't using the wide angle. I don't know. It's weird," Jonathan said, handing the photograph back to Nancy.

"And you're sure you didn't see anyone else out there?"

"No," he replied, shaking his head. "And she was there one second and then, um... gone. I figured she bolted."

"The cops think that she ran away. But they don't know Barb. And I went back to Steve's... and I thought I... saw something."

"Like what?" Kate asked.

"Some... weird man, or... I don't know what it was."

Jonathan and Kate exchanged glances as Nancy stared at them both. Kate hoped Jonathan was thinking the same thing as her. Joyce's wall monster without a face: could it have been real?

"I'm sorry," Nancy said, breaking the awkward silence between them. "I... I shouldn't have come here today. I'm... I'm so sorry."

"What'd he look like?" Jonathan said quickly before she could walk off.

"What?"

"This man you saw in the woods. What'd he look like?"

"I don't... I don't know," she replied. "It was almost like he... he didn't have—"

"Didn't have a face?" Kate asked, looking to Jonathan for a moment.

Nancy had no idea what was about to drag herself into, and neither did the other two: all they knew was that there was a chance that Will and Barbara were still alive, and that's all that mattered to them.

next chapter

tag list:

@thatsonezesty13 @cece5 @thepowerstoner @alovelytardis @coolchick333 @stand-tall-pineapple @littlet-holmes @guichu @cinderellacauseshebroke

[insanelydeadlybookcollector]

Soooo now you've watched all of S1-4, when do you think Mondler startted fancying each other? Like, specifically for each of them? Do you think it was always there, or on and off? I count you as the internet's Mondler expert so I'm v interested to hear your thoughts! x

First off, thank you. That's really sweet. This is a huge question and I want to do it justice. Let me know if this makes any sense.

We'll start with Chandler.

I think Chandler has had a crush on Monica almost the entire time he's known her. It might have started as simple friendship but somewhere in those early years as they teased Ross he realised she laughed at all of his jokes and have him all of his attention. No one has ever done that for him before.

I think it happened slowly for him but he's always been aware of it. He knows the reason he doesn't like doesn't like her dates, and even Rachel at the beginning, because she deserves better and she doesn't see him. He tolerates them, of course, and won't say anything about them not being good enough, she deserves better than that. But he can't help but wonder if he'd be better for her than Paul and Alan and Fun Bobby.

Chandler has always found himself dating women that are similar to Monica and that's no accident. He has a type, yes, but it's not strong confident brunettes, it's her. He might not doing consciously and I don't think there's any malicious intent, but every woman he dated reminds him of Monica a little and that's why he's attracted to them and why it won't ever work. Look at Janice and Joanna's personalities and Kathy's haircut.

So, from the beginning he's been aware of his crush on her. It comes and goes, flaring up again when she's hurt or upset or wants to spend time with him above anybody else. He won't ever do anything about it, doesn't want to ruin their friendship, he's never had a family like this one and losing Monica would be the worst in itself but it would also mean losing everyone else. But sometimes he wonders if they could cross the line, if he could put his arm around her on the chair and know it meant something, if he could make certain she would never cry again because of some loser date. Sometimes he wonders if he should be feeling this way, if she can see it, if she might ever feel the same way, and every so often he'll offer him himself, but until London she hadn't taken him seriously.

I think having him crush on her for most of preMondler without intending on doing anything about it most of the time (I don't want to taint those beautiful friendship moments) makes things like Chandler adamantly believing they're "meant to be together" make sense and justify why he thought London was "the most romantic night if his life" and was so upset that it wasn't them finally admitting to themselves they felt something more in The Truth About London.

Monica's a little more difficult.

She definitely had a crush on him the first time she met him. She undoubtedly thought he was attractive and funny and the first person who really, even off-handedly believed in her. Of course he ruined that with a hurtful frat comment and she tried to hate him. And it was easy when he wasn't in her life, but seeing him again made her heart race.

And then she cut off his toe. She's not sure how, but that's when they became friends. Clearly, he was embarrassed by it, but he never blamed her. He would laugh about being teased at school, not sure how his friends had found out, and roll his eyes over the table at her at her doofus brother and it was nice to have someone agree with her that he wasn't God's gift like he thought he was. It was nice to have a friend like him, easy to talk to and constant.

She had thought something might happen between them when she told him the apartment across from her was for sale. She knew it was expensive, it wasn't passed down from a family member, so she thought maybe there was another reason he'd taken it. They had dinner together and walked each other to work and shared their lunch breaks in local cafes and played pool in the bar but nothing had ever happened. They teased and they touched in the most intimate ways, his fingers on the bare skin of her arm when he wanted her attention, but nothing ever eventuated. She started thinking maybe he didn't feel the same.

So her crush for him lay dormant for years. A few times it reared its head, always at the wrong time. She would see him running lines with Joey, playing with Ben, listening to Phoebe talk about her grandmother and her heart would just clench, stopping for a second because she saw him. She saw who he was and what he was capable of and Aurora didn't see it and no one else seemed to want it. It wasn't a crush so much as it was love for him and all he does silently for his friends but because so much time had past and nothing had ever happened, she brushed it aside as anything but what it was.

There were times when she would think he was teasing in the daylight but moonbeams and streetlights shining through her window would make her see the shadows on his face when she thought about the way she had snapped or laughed when she rejected him. In those hours she worried that what she was feeling was that old crush coming back and not merely concern for her friend. She worried he would stop asking and she worried that she didn't want him to.

She had even thought, giddily, that the night they had kissed at Joey's party would eventuate into something more. She often lay awake with the ghost of his lips on hers, his tongue tasting hers and wondered how the universe could be so cruel as to not let him remember it.

It was on their trip home from the beach when he sat on the opposite side of the cab that Monica realised it might be more than merely friendship. He didn't want to touch her, didn't want to press his shoulder against hers or let her rest her head on him and it hurt, deep in her soul, wondering if he would ever offer himself to her again and vowing she would say yes the next time he did. But he'd dropped the subject, she'd asked him to play cards but he didn't out and out ask her the way he had a few days prior and she did her best to let him know she would say yes but she's not certain he got the message.

And then came Kathy. She'd never seen him like that, desperate to be loved by the woman he thought he lived, worried he was hurting his friend. And then doing everything he could to make sure she stayed in his life once they were together. While they were together she had worried that Chandler would leave her, move out to Hollywood to be with this woman who didn't love him back but it was worse after they broke up. He had no time for her and she had no time for him with work and the wedding and giving Rachel advice and taking care of Phoebe and she was mad that he'd won her apartment. They were further than ever before from each other. But then he'd look across the table and hand her part of the paper, or host a pretty good party, or barge into her personal space like he always would and everything was normal, the same as it always was. She's not sure who initiated it but they started spending more time together than ever before. She'd come over for breakfast and he'd plant himself on on the same chair as her when she watched a movie to relax. They made sure they had time just the two of them like they always had, sitting side by side on the orange lounge before everyone else joined them in Central Perk.

Only she knew things now. She knew that he loved fiercely and desired loyalty and was near and tidy and determined. He fought for what he wanted in little ways and protected himself by closing off from everyone but her. She knew he went weeks simply cuddling with a girlfriend and was both so truthful and so good in bed a girl came rushing over to thank her for the lesson she'd given him, not that it really mattered. It was things she already knew, mostly, but maybe the first time she'd seen them all at once.

She'd realised then, somewhere late in season four that he need for him to not be sad, to always be on her team, to sit beside her and help her with groceries, it was more than friendship and she wanted to know where it could lead. And she decided she would once they got back from London.

In short, they've both always had a crush, there's always been something magnetic between them. Chandler's always known but tried to fight it, tried to hide it because he thinks she deserves better, and Monica let her crush get burried under her career and her desire to value his friendship above everybody else's. But she'd always felt it too. And I genuinely think one or both of them would have acted on it in season five even if London didn't happen.