#kidding i kind of want a surprise winner for worlds

[oneminutefiftysixseconds]

starting to celebrate half a km from the line. man...

[angsthology]

☾ intro to jupiter nightshade (ft. the commentary by yours truly)

-> series masterlist

Jupiter Nightshade.

How do you even begin to describe her?

Jupiter was everyone’s dreams and everyone’s nightmare.

You love Jupiter, you hate her, you admire her, you’re terrified of her, you want to be her, you want to be with her.

Some people even say that she’s a real daughter of the sky — others even dared say she is the God Jupiter of the sky.

But those were just rumors, probably.

Hard not to believe those when the woman looked like she belongs in a museum of fine art. Models envy her, they kiss the ground she walks on and thank whatever higher power that she decided to join the world of motorsports. She would render them all jobless if modelling was her actual career rather than it being an occasional obligation.

The gods really took their time with her. Dark, jet-black hair cascades down her back — she never really keeps it long, she had to wear layers a lot and she was not a fan of the itch and heat restrictions it gave her so she always opted for a short messy haircut. Her skin glowed olive, under the sun, it often looked like she was made of part-gold. But, oh, dio mio!—as she would say—her eyes, her eyes; they’re the magnet to all that is deserving, they’re blessed to those lucky enough to have been even looked upon with those eyes. Both a piercing shade of emerald green—only, here’s the twist, the drop of uniqueness to it; her left eye was split into two between the striking green and a soft brown.

Call it dramatic but what I say doesn’t stray far from the truth.

That was her looks. I can’t even begin to describe the talent, the spirit she possesses.

“THAT’S P1, KID! P1 ON YOUR FIRST RACE!” her engineer yelled in her radio, his words coming out of his mouth along with breaths of disbelief.

The racer hadn’t even heard a word he said, she was far too busy taking in the glory of the shock coming from the stands. There were occasional boos of course, but of course that doesn’t begin to beat the cheers coming for her. The rookie.

She was on a high, one she has never felt before. Not even when she was named F2 champion or any other race she’s won before. Formula One was a new kind of glory for her and boy she was already hungry for more.

That hunger? Never went away for the rest of her rookie season. Jupiter Nightshade was a mad woman and that made everyone (all the good ones anyway) fall in love with her.

God, she could never be full of the glory. Every moment she managed to get more it only makes her even hungrier for more.

“JUPITER NIGHTSHADE YOU ARE A GOD!” the energetic yells of her team principal boomed through her radio, almost making her flinch.

“Tell me something I don’t know.” she said smugly.

Ugh, what a smug little shit.

I still think she’s cool or whatever.

Think what you want to think about Jupiter Nightshade but everyone can always agree that she’s full of surprises.

Really, she didn’t know where it came from. One second she was kissing her winning trophy while perched up on the second and third driver’s shoulders, the next; champagne was everywhere and she was in the air — mouthful of champagne, (she’s young, she’s free, and most importantly, she was a winner. She thought.) she sprayed the liquid that was already in her mouth to the P2 holder, completely surprising them—not that they’re mad or anything about it, they were just taken by surprise by it and let it happen. Then she turned to the lucky three with a smirk on her face; the man was quick to try and duck away but she was faster than that (on-track, off-track, there isn’t much difference between her), spraying right into his face.

And, really, that was how it started.

It was… an interesting, but hot nonetheless—according to the Twitter sapphics anyway. (They’re right.)

But being one of the greatest always came with its negatives — worse when you’re a woman.

She was the world champion.

She was a rookie driver in a Renault with a world champion.

And yet… they are boo-ing her.

On the internet, anyway.

Which makes it even better. If they’re not brave enough (or, rich enough to even attend a Grand Prix) to say it to her face, what real value do their words even have?

But for now, she can only accept her first domination under the building lightning storm in the sky.

And hence, born was her first nickname—and I’m not talking about the world driver’s champion—no; from then on, the daughter of the sky was born.

What a scam! — 2019 spat out, Jupiter was called the rookie with immense beginners luck.

Cunt. She thought.

The media that once ridiculed her then acted as if they never doubted her a day in their life was once again turning their back on them.

Typical, she thought. Fame-hungry-worthless-losers with no sense of wording in their body whatsoever.

When asked about it, her answer was simple; the only answer she had given to the world that retched year:

“The car is finally realizing who’s driving it and just couldn’t keep up.”

Renault was angry.

How. Dare. She.

They gave her an F1 car for the first time in her career, they catered her to a championship in it, and this is how she repays them?

At that, she rolls her eyes, “What, like I’m wrong?”

You make a car that accommodates a champion’s needs, you get a champion.

Nightshade is not for the weak.

So when she made her move to Red Bull in 2020 many was not surprised — ‘it’s been a long time coming.’ (I know right, why didn’t she do it sooner?) — ‘of course, she did.’ (the fuck you mean by that?) — ‘oh, great, more overconfident Red Bull drivers, just what we need.’ (damn, right it’s what we need.) — and my personal favorite: ‘was she not already in Red Bull?’ (oh they wished they had hired her sooner.)

By the time her third WDC came around, people have already treated her like an evil dictator taking over Formula One.

The internet (and, Netflix too probably) have successfully painted over her spirit turning her into this soul-sucking, dream-stealing, non-caring of others’ well-being person.

Everyone was suddenly far too busy looking for her faults; everyone.

Did they care that she’s a woman dominating in a male-dominated sport? Not anymore (they miss having their favorite white man win.)

Did they even bother caring about who she was doing this for? (No, why should they? She’s not of any relevance.)

Did they even bother opening their eyes to the fact that Jupiter Nightshade is a good person.

To look past her brash personality, interesting habits, and behavior and just see her for what she stands for, to what she is proving; that how the media—the world treats her gender unfairly when the opposite can do the exact same thing (hell, sometimes even worse) and not be bashed as much as she was getting.

They can say what they want about her but she’ll be the one hearing “You are the world champion!” in her ears at the end of the season.

not proofread | taglist; @disneyprincemuke (no one was surprised) + ask to be added 🥳

[scarisd3ad]

To the end and back | Daryl Dixon x reader

Chapter twenty six | I love you, I’m sorry

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Warnings - ANGST! Guns, and shooting, Death, mentions of sex, cursing, usual twd warnings

Summary - after the world ended you were sure you’d never find love again but a certain archer catches your eyes and changes the entire trajectory of your life.

(A/N) - it’s finally here! Yay I’ve been working on this chapter since may and I’m so happy I’ve finally finished it. I know progress with my fics have been moving a little slower that they usually do but I’m hoping fingers crossed 🤞that I am able to speed the process up a little in the coming months 🫶🏻 also finally introducing the governor as the readers father in this chapter, I kind of hinted at it last chapter, to play around with the idea of it being canon. And I really like the ideas and situations I’ve came up in my head to put them in.

‘The suicide king’

S3 ep 9

Daryl is unbagged and pushed forward towards the middle of the arena. Merle and Daryl stand frozen, their eyes scanning the crowd in utter disbelief. The deafening sound of boos and heckles echoes throughout the arena, drowning out any other noise. Daryl's chest is heaving, faster and faster with each shout made from the audience of people. A blonde woman is attempting to force her way through a group of people, most likely the Governor's personal bodyguards, to get closer to him.

She manages to get through the first set before a surprise second set grabs her up before she can even get to his side. The governor - or maybe I should just start calling him Philip - because I finally know who the man behind the oh-so-mysterious name 'the governor' is. It's funny, I've been looking for this man for the last, what? 20 years of my life and I'm able to find him not even a year into the apocalypse so easily. How could he avoid his kids for 20 years in the old world, but he couldn't even last a year without me finding him now?

I really want to know how my father, Philip Blake, ended up being some dictator for a survivor's refugee camp. I almost want to laugh at how 'badass' he looks right now. makeshift eyepatch over one eye, as he looked over all his people so proud to be an asshole. My father was never much of a threat, but god he tried to be, though he really tried. I didn't hear much about my dad growing up, my maternal grandpa always muttered about how he was "such an asshole of a man", but the one thing I did hear from my paternal grandmother was that he ended up skipping town got some stupid office job and started a new family. it was all some bullshit about needing to start over, without my 'slut of a mother'.

His arm raises, so it's pointing towards Merle. The people of Woodbury immediately quiet down as their leader begins to speak. "I asked where your loyalties lie. You said here." Daryl was finally let out of whatever shackles that were placed around his arms, letting them fall to his sides freely. "Well, prove it. Prove it to us all." My blood runs cold.

"Brother against brother," he says with a dry chuckle. The crowd copies their leader, letting out a small chuckle that's paired with a quiet "yeah."

"Winner goes free" the crowd cheers at that, probably hoping and praying that Merle is able to win. Even though Merle was now deemed possibly 'unloyal' in the governor's eyes, it was still the better option for them. If Daryl died, Merle would have absolutely no reason to want to help us. Merle would go back to being Philip's loyal righthand man, and we, the 'terrorists' would be dead. Glenn had already told them our location and they would be marching up to our door with pitchforks in no time. Philip walks towards Merle shouting "Fight to the death!" as he does so. The crowd cheers once again. This was a scene taken straight out of one of those shitty medieval times shows.

The blonde woman finally turns, revealing her whole face to me. Andrea, the woman I thought I had accidentally left for dead, was here? Of all places, how did she end up here? Well, she had already shown us she didn't care about being led by an asshole, and if she was as close with Philip as she seems, she should already know how much of an asshole he was. "Philip, please. Don't do this," Andrea pleads, as one of Philips's men holds her back. "Don't do this!" He doesn't even glance at her, choosing instead to keep his eye on his prey. He glares at the two men standing in front of him, a smirk on his face that shows he truly enjoys this. The torture. He doesn't even have to do it himself, he just has to sit back and watch.

Merle raises his hand in the air before shouting "Y'all know me!" the crowd cheers, and I can see the absolute look of betrayal on Daryl's face. "I'm gonna do whatever I got to do to prove..." He hesitates for a moment before swinging his arm back and delivering a forceful punch to Daryl's stomach. With a loud grunt, Daryl collapses to the ground, and the crowd erupts in excitement. I stand frozen, unable to believe what I'm witnessing. how could he do that? Do that to his brother? "Holy shit," Jack gasps as Daryl begins to push himself up off of the ground. "That's my loyalty to this town!" just as Daryl has gotten his head off of the ground, Merle kicks him, sending him right back onto the ground.

Daryl lies motionless on his back, his chest heaving up and down with a faint rhythm. My eyes are fixed on him, hesitant to glance away, as if by doing so I might miss the final moments of his life. Merle continues throwing blow after blow as Philip watches on the sidelines with a sick look on his face. The crowd cheers as they lead out a walker. It's practically on a leash as some man, probably another one of Philips's men, leads him toward Daryl and Merle.

Finally, Daryl throws a punch. It's towards Merle's ankles but it gets him somewhere. It gets Daryl back onto his feet. Daryl launches himself toward Merle, tackling him, or at least trying to, but Merle has a leg up in this competition. merle gets Daryl down to the ground first. Both men have their hands around each other's necks as three of Philips's men lead three walkers towards them.

I don't even know what to do to help Daryl out. I could cause some type of distraction. If something more dangerous happens, it could give Daryl the freedom to escape. My eyes fall to my bag. I open it up and grab my gun right as Daryl and Merle get back to their feet. The two are working together to defeat the walkers.

My ammunition is running dangerously low, but my determination to save Daryl is unwavering. I'm willing to take the risk and use my last bullet to help him escape. My breaths come in quick and shallow as I raise my gun, my hands trembling with apprehension. I take aim at a man standing near Philip. I let out one more shaky breath before pressing the trigger and letting the bullet fly out of the gun and toward the man. Luckily for me, my aim was amazing today. The bullet tears right through his skull. Everyone around him screams as he falls to the ground with a thud.

Suddenly, someone behind Jack and I start shooting rounds into the arena, which makes even more of a ruckus. As I turned around to glance behind me, my eyes fell on Maggie, who was casually leaning against the top of the cold metal dumpster that was situated behind us. She shoots round after round into the arena. I let out a sigh of relief and began running back towards her. rick throws one of his smoke bombs, and Maggie continues to shoot. All I can hear is the sound of the automatic rifle and screams. Everyone's scattering like flies. Rick looks up at me, his mouth is open as if he's about to ask me something before his eyes flick to Jack who's stood behind me. "Who's that?"

"Old friend... he helped me," I reply. Rick continues to stare at Jack, scrutinizing him from head to toe as if he's trying to find a reason not to like him. I already know what he's going to ask. "Is he one of the governor's men?" I quickly respond, "He was just a resident and didn't know anything about what was going on, right Jack?" Jack nods, muttering a quiet "mhm."

Daryl and Merle sprint towards us while Rick urges, "Daryl, let's go!" Without wasting any time, we all take off at full speed, our hearts pounding with fear of being spotted by Philip or his men. The only sound that can be heard is our pounding footsteps on the ground as we race towards safety.

-

We manage to escape the arena and run back into the main town area. We were cautious as we walked around, hoping everyone was in the arena, but there was no actual way to know, so we were as careful as we could.

"they're all at the arena, this way!!" Merle instructs, attempting to lead us toward an exit. Rick was quick to shoot down the idea of Merle going with us. "you're not going anywhere with us!" he growls. "You really want to do this now?!" Merle asks as he runs towards the fence, attempting to pry apart the metal, as Rick and Daryl stand guard. I pray to God Rick won't say anything about Jack going with us. I don't want him to stay here, knowing the possible doomed future of Woodbury.

Finally, Merle manages to pull apart the metal, leaving a nicely sized hole in its wake. We all slipped through without a problem, but we're only met with walkers on the opposite side. "A LITTLE HELP WOULD BE NICE!" Merle shouts as he beats a walker to death with his prosthetic arm. Daryl was quick to pitch in, shooting a walker with his bow. I pull my gun out, shooting off my last bullet into a walker's head, "We ain't got time for this!" before beginning to sprint off.

I stand motionless next to Jack, anticipation building as we await instructions from Rick. "let's go!" Daryl shouts once it's been more than a few seconds, Rick, Maggie, and I not moving. I'm glad Daryl hasn't asked about Jack yet. Maybe it's just because he's too busy to realize. But I hope he never mentions it. I'm scared he'll get mad, or jealous. He's just a friend now, hell we were tiptoeing around a breakup when the outbreak started. But I don't know how Daryl is with exes. I know he can get jealous; he has many times before. Normally, I can predict what he'll do in certain situations, but with Jack, I just don't know how Daryl will react. rick folds, deciding to follow after Merle rather than die.

-

The walk back to the car is long. My hands are in my pockets as I trail behind a bit, with everyone else at least a few feet ahead of me. I don't mean to eavesdrop, but I can't help but overhear Merle and Daryl's conversation. "sooo, wha's up with you'n tha' bitch?" Merle asks, his head tilting back, so it points towards me. My heart stops, wondering what Daryl would say. Would he refer to me as his girlfriend? Even though we already had discussed what our relationship was, and I was confident in my role as Daryl's girlfriend, I was scared that he'd be embarrassed to admit that we were in a relationship with his older brother.

Daryl's quiet for a few seconds, giving his brother enough time to throw in another comment. "You to fuckin' around or something?" Daryl chuckles left hand rubbing the back of his neck nervously. "Um...I guess me'n her are together," he says with a shrug. Merle almost immediately bursts out in a booming fit of laughter, which makes Rick turn around and glare. I don't understand what's so funny. Was it so farfetched that Daryl and I were dating? I can see the back of Daryl's ears turn a bright red as his hands nervously play with the hem of his shirt. "yer datin' her! ain't she fuckin' that Chinese boy?" I almost scoff at Merle's assumption. I can almost hear Daryl's eyes roll as he says, "Nah... they're just friends."

"ya sure? I remem-" Daryl's quick to shut Merle down once again "I'm sure"

-

It's about 20 minutes later when we end up back at the other side of the large acre of woods where we parked the car. As we approach the car, Rick whisper yells out Glenn's name, which makes both Glenn and Michonne get up and run to us. "Oh, thank god," Glenn sighs out as he approaches us. Rick was quick to squash the inkling of relief that Glenn had by revealing our newfound problems. "Now we got a problem here. I need you to back up." the moment Merle's face comes into Glenn's sigh, his face instantly contorted into anger "What the hell is he doing here!" Michonne pulls out her Katana in an effort to protect herself, and Daryl, he's quick to begin yelling in an effort to protect his older brother. There is a gun pointed at almost everyone in the group. "are you guys always like this?" Jack mutters quietly, "Always," I reply with an eye roll.

Everyone is yelling over each other; I can barely understand one word that's coming out of anyone's mouth. "Yeah, right after he beat the shit out of you," Rick scoffs, while I cross my arms over my chest, feeling absolute annoyance simmering inside me. "Hey, we both took our licks, man," Merle chuckles as his back presses against the tree behind him. "Jackass" Daryl scoffs with an eye roll. merle pushes himself off the tree. "Hey shut up!" Merle shouts back at his brother, his voice filled with pure annoyance. The brotherly squabble is quickly shut down by Rick with a loud "Enough!" but that just turns into another fight. "Hey! hey! Relax! Put that down!" Rick shouts at Michonne, who's got her Katana pointed at him. "Get that thing out of my face!" Daryl shouts, swatting at Glenn's gun.

Merle laughs. "Man, look like you've gone native, brother." Daryl turns around, his anger now fully directed at his brother. "NO more than you hangin' out with that psycho back there." Merle just has a smirk on his face, mainly just to piss Daryl off even more. "oh, yeah, man. He is a charmer, I got to tell you that. been puttin' the wood to your girlfriend Andrea big time, baby." Merle said eye's making direct contact with Michonne. my eyebrows furrow with confusion, not because of Andrea fucking my father, that was predictable, Andrea liked a man with power, but I'm confused because Andrea and Michonne had known each other. Glenn's just as confused brows furrowed as he asks "What? Andreas in Woodbury?"

"Right next to the governor," Daryl replies. Michonne takes a few steps forward, pointing her Katana in front of her once again, with the intention of hurting someone. "I told you to drop that!" Rick shouts, lunging forward, making Michonne lower it once again. Michonne has a blank expression on her face as Rick asks, "You know Andrea?" her eyes don't make contact with Rick, instead settling for somewhere right behind him.

Rick doesn't take her silence for an answer, so he gets closer, and his voice drops to a low, sinister whisper, "Hey, do you know Andrea?" he asks once again. She doesn't answer, letting Merle answer for her. "Yep, she does," he says, a smirk displayed on his lips. "Her and blondie spent all winter cuddlin' up in the forest. Mm-mmm-mmm." Rick has a look of betrayal on his face as Merle continues to reveal more and more of Michonne's secrets. "Yeah. My Nubian queen here had two pet walkers. No arms, cut off the jaws, kept them in chains."

What. The. fuck? two pet walkers! "kinda ironic now that I think about it." Daryl is done with Merle's mouth. Daryl quickly spins around shouting "Shut up, bro!" Merle laughs, obviously finding Daryl's anger hilarious "Hey, man, we snagged them out of the woods. Andrea was close to dyin'."

"Is that why she's with him?"

Merle nods. "Yeah. Snug as two little bugs. So, what ya gonna do now, sheriff, huh? Surrounded by a bunch of liars, thugs, and cowards." Merle says, just poking and prodding at Rick, trying to get a reaction out of him. And a reaction is what he got; Rick turns his head, commanding Merle to "shut up!" Merle, being Merle, doesn't comply and continues his antics. Merle chuckles. "Oh, man, look at this. Pathetic!" he shakes his head in faux shame. "All these guns and no bullets in them."

Merles once again got on his brother's last nerve. "Merle! shut up!" Daryl growls, leaning forward a bit, trying to intimidate his older brother. Merle doesn't take that and begins to shout, "Shut up yourself! Bunch of pussies you roll-" Merle isn't even able to finish his last sentence before Rick quickly strikes him in the back of the head with his gun, causing him to fall to the ground unconscious with a thud. "Asshole."

-

We're all gathered around in the middle of the road, leaving Jack sat on the side of the road, feeling he had no place in the conversation, and Merle still in the woods. Daryl's trying to propose that Merle comes with us, but Rick's not so sure, feeling it will just cause trouble. "It won't work," Rick sighs. Daryl still tries his best to convince Rick, though "it's gotta" I'm not on either side. I know Merle is nothing but trouble. I've known that since the moment I met him. But I also know that Daryl has beaten himself up over losing his brother for the past year. I know having his brother with our group again would make him happy. I want Daryl to be happy, I really do, but Merle has already caused so much trouble for our group. Hell, he kidnapped and almost killed Glenn and Maggie.

"it'll stir things up," Rick argues. I know he's right. Having Glenn and Merle under the same roof probably won't end up well. Glenn was already so pissed off; it wouldn't be right to make Glenn and Maggie feel more unsafe than they already did. "Look, the governor is probably on the way to the prison right now. merle knows how he thinks, and we could use the muscle," Merle did already know a bunch about Phillip, but who says he's even gonna help up, all he did back at the quarry was fuck around and start unnecessary fights with Shane.

"I'm not havin' him at the prison,"

"Do you really want him sleeping in the same cell block as Carol, Beth, or hell, Casey?" Glenn asks. thinking about it, I don't want Merle Dixon anywhere near Casey. I know Merle is Daryl's brother and all, but he should really think about this. I was barely comfortable being within 5 feet of Merle myself let alone my 5-year-old. he has to start thinking about the bigger picture, he has to start thinking about how this could affect Casey, Carl, and the baby. Daryl grunts before muttering, "he ain't a rapist." He wasn't a rapist, but he sure did make me more than uncomfortable on multiple occasions. Look at him, the way he talked, the men he hung out with; would he really want that kind of person around the children?

"Well, his buddy is." Daryl was still trying to plead Merle's case. "They ain't buddies no more. Not after last night," I sigh, arms crossing over my chest "C'mon D you know how Merle is, do you really want that around case?" he huffs, trying not to make eye contact as a look of betrayal spreads across his face.

"There's no way Merles gonna live there without putting everyone at each other's throats," Rick says. I know Rick doesn't want to piss Daryl off, but he also wants everyone in our group to feel safe. "So, yer gonna cut Merle loose and bring the last samurai home with us?" Rick shakes his head, saying "She's not coming back. " 

"she's not in a state to be on her own" Maggie argues. Maggie and Glenn continue to try and plead Michonne's case. "She did bring you guys to us" Glenn whispers, in a way he's right. Michonne had helped us, but she's already practically gone rogue pointing that damn katana at people. we just don't know what she's capable of yet. "And then ditched us" rick argues, head turning towards Glenn. "at least let my dad stitch her up" Maggie begs, we can't just leave her out for dead, we should at least let Hershel check her out, so she's has the best chance of survival out there, it just the right thing to do. "She's too unpredictable." She's a loose cannon, that's for sure. On one hand, she has proven herself to be beneficial to our group, but on the other hand, she has also shown us that she could be harmful to our group. She's helping us, but also going missing for a long period of time and pointing her damn Katana at us like we're the bad guys.

We're staring at Michonne. She is leaning against the side-view mirror, staring back at us, almost as if she knows we're talking about her. Scratch that, she probably does know because Rick is not trying to whisper at all. He wants her to know she's unwanted, hoping she'll take a hint and scurry off before Rick can boot her out. Daryl nods agreeing with Rick, "That's right, we don't know who she is" he mutters, but he's only agreeing with Rick right now to try to slip in a word about Merle staying with us.

"But merle, merles blood." Daryl says almost acting like we're all some big family. Deep down, I have a feeling he'd run if Merle asked him. We're not blood, I'm not his wife, Casey's not his daughter. I'm his girlfriend, barely even that sometimes, and Casey, she's a little girl who has accidentally grown too attached. The 'D' around my neck means nothing if Merle is asking for something, and I know that. I wouldn't expect him to choose me over his brother, and I know he wouldn't expect me to pick him over mine, even if it would be a difficult decision for me.

Glenn shakes his head in disgust. "No, merles your blood, my blood, my family is standing right here, and waiting for us back at the prison." We had no ties to Merle, no need to keep him. The only one who did was Daryl. we all know the line we're tittering on, we all know the thoughts and decisions racing through his mind. We all know he's thinking about leaving and going with Merle. that's why my eyes are burning into his with a stare begging him not to. Begging him not to make me go back without him, begging him not to make me explain why he didn't come back. "And you're part of that family, but he's not. He's not"

I can see the anger boiling in his chest, the words he's trying to fight back. "Man, ya'll don't know" We all stare at him waiting for him to say it because we know he is "Fine. we'll fend for ourselves." he finally says it, which almost sends me over the edge. I just want to scream at him. How could he just leave, leave after promising he'd come back? "that's not what I was saying," Glenn says, trying to make Daryl think about his decision. "no, him, no me." It's as simple as that. He didn't think about Casey, Carol, Beth, or hell fucking me. "Daryl, you don't have to do that"

"It was always merle an' I before this" Then he makes eye contact with me, and he sees it, the tears pooling in my eyes that I desperately try to blink back, the begging the pleading, but he doesn't care. "So, you're just gonna leave?" I ask finally breaking my silence. His eyes meet mine. "you'd do the same thing," he mutters. My brother, he wasn't like Merle. He wouldn't be booted out of the group because my brother was a good man. "What do you want me to tell Casey? you promised her you'd come back." he shrugs, almost like he doesn't care. "y/n ya gotta understand this is my brother, my blood. You'd do the same if you found yer's. I know ya would"

"My brother's dead," I say, my voice comes out bitter and harsh. Because how could he bring up my brother, who's dead? Who died trying to help me? How could he compare his racist, misogynistic, absolute scumbag brother to mine? "Then ya should understand. "my arms cross over my chest, and my face twists into a disgusted expression. I can't believe he'd just leave us like that. After everything we've been through. He said he loved me. I thought he thought more of me. I thought this was it. I thought he was going to be my husband.

Daryl starts walking, pushing past Maggie and me, muttering, "Say goodbye to yer pops for me." I spin around on my heels, facing him now rather than Glenn and Rick. I'm practically chasing after him shouting "You're seriously leaving?! After everything we've been through?!" he ignores me and just continues to walk until he gets to the trunk of the car. He opens it and begins to gather his items.

"So, this is it?" I whisper, my hands shoved in my pockets, "guess so" he mutters, my heart drops and tears begin to pool in my eyes once again. "Seriously? What about Casey?" he shrugs, not answering because he knows whatever he's going to say is just going to piss me off. "What about me D? What about us?" a tear falls down my cheek, and my hand reaches up to wipe it away. "you'll get over it," he mutters, slinging his bag over his shoulder. That hurt me. It felt like a stab to the gut. Did he really think I just get over him like that? He shakes his head, almost as if he was trying to ignore the tears that lined my waterline. he's trying not to care.

I've watched Daryl grow so much as a person in the last year. The man I knew yesterday was a scrap of the man I had met at that quarry. But somehow, with Merle's reappearance, he went back to the Douch bag he was. He no longer cared for Casey, Beth, or Carol. He no longer cared for me. He no longer cared about us. All the late-night conversation meant nothing, the necklace meant nothing, Casey meant nothing. "I-I love you," I whisper, hoping it would change his decision. Hoping the quiet admission of love would snap him back into reality.

"Then stop..." he mutters. His words are so bitter, so calloused they slice right through my heart, breaking it into a million pieces. "ya got whoever that guy is over there, ya got Glenn. know you'll be fuckin' one of them by the end of the week," he mutters. Hot, angry tears begin to fall down my cheeks. How could he say that? Was that really all he thought of me? A slut? Did he think I was only with him for the sex? The sex that was so far in between that I can't recall the last time we had it. Did he not notice how in love I was?

I rip the necklace from my neck and throw it at him. It hits his torso before falling to the ground with a soft thud. The silver metal glimmers in the sun staring up a simple reminder of what we were, and what we could have been. "Fuck you" is the last thing I mutter before wiping my tears and turning to walk back towards the group.

-

The ride back to the prison is a blur. I sit in the back, middle seat, with a shell-shocked look on my face. I don't want to cry, but my body wants me to cry. There's a lump in my throat and I'm desperately trying to hold back tears. The whole ride Glenn muttering quietly to me, "I'm so sorry" "I didn't think he was really going to leave" I don't pay attention to him. I can't listen, I can't pay attention. I just want to be in my head right now. I feel the car stop and feel people leave, but I don't pay it any mind. I don't even pay any mind when I hear the shouting outside. I just want this all to be over.

I'm zoned out until I feel the car park, and everyone gets out. I get out, hands shoved in my pockets. The only thing that knocks me out of my head is the feeling of two little arms wrapping around my leg. "you're back," Casey squeaks as I bend down and pick her up. Her arms wrap around my neck and her head buries itself into my shoulder. I know the inevitable question awaits us, and I still don't know what I'm going to say. When I feel her head leave my shoulder and begin looking around, my heart begins to slam against my chest. "where's Daryl?" she asks eyes still searching, "he...Daryl left"

"Did he die?" she asks, brows furrowing up as I shake my head. I'd rather he had died. It's easier to explain to her that he died rather than he decided to leave us. "No, baby. He found his brother and decided he needed to be with his family." Her brows furrow up even farther, if that's even possible. "I thought we were his family?"

-

When I get back inside, I tell Casey to stay with Carl and go up and find an empty cell. This is when I finally let myself break down. Sitting on the bed with my head in my hand, I just let go. I'm full-on ugly crying, with tears streaming down my face, and snot bubbling out of my nose. I just hate him so much for leaving. Broken sobs escape my lips as I try to keep myself as quiet as possible. I don't want anyone else to know how badly this hurt me.

My chest rises and falls fast with each gasp I take. The only thought that is racing through my mind is why would he do this? How could he do this? Did he really think that I was a slut all this time, or was it Merle's comments about Glenn, and I that suddenly had changed his opinion of Glenn and I's relationship? Did he seriously think I didn't love him?

"You, okay?" a knock on the wall pulls me from my thoughts. I look up to see Carol. My bottom lip wobbles as I shake my head 'no'. she lets out a sigh as she nods and slowly walks towards me. She takes a seat next to me on the bottom bunk. "You want to talk?" she asks, her arm coming to wrap around my body and pull mine close to hers. I shake my head 'no' once again. I could barely think about him without a blubbering mess, let alone talk about him to someone else.

My head buries into her chest as her left hand rubs small circles into my back. "I know, I know," she mutters as broken sobs erupt from my throat. I just hate him so much for leaving with Merle, but at the same time I want him here, and I want him to hold me. I want to hear him tell me he loves me.

-

I sat in that cell for the rest of the night, not bothering about dinner because I had already felt sick to my stomach. The only human interaction I have is with Casey at bedtime when she cuddles up next to me in the bottom bunk. I can't bring myself to touch the stuff Daryl had left behind, because I know I'll either break it or throw it at a wall.

Casey's eyes were heavy with sleep, and yawns erupted from her every few seconds. She didn't want to sleep on the top bunk. For the past few months, she only knew what it felt like to sleep between Daryl and me. There was always a warm body next to her, no matter what. I can't bring myself to think how last night was for her. Through a yawn, she whispers, "I miss Daryl" I let out a heavy sigh. In a way I miss him, I wish he hadn't made the choice he had made, I wish he would have considered how'd those decisioned would affect us. I wish I didn't have the burden of living the rest of my life wondering if he's alright, so I guess in a way I miss him.

Casey eventually drifted off to sleep, and I quietly slipped out of bed, hoping that everyone else had retired for the night. As I tiptoed down the stairs and into the dimly lit rec room, I noticed Glenn sitting at a table in the far-left corner. He was shrouded in almost complete darkness, with only his hoodie standing out in the dim light. His head faced down; one elbow propped up on the table to hold it up. "How you holdin' up?" I ask, breaking him from his thoughts. I can see him just and let out a tiny gasp. "shit" he mutters under his breath as his head snaps up to see me.

I laugh, a small smile breaking across my face. "sorry" I whisper, walking across the room to meet him at his table. "watcha doin' up so late?" I ask, sliding into the seat beside him. "can't sleep you?" he asks. I shrug, not knowing why I was still up. I felt like I could sleep for a good week if I really tried. "So...did Jack get booted out with the rest...or..." I ask referring to the commotion I had heard earlier that day involving rick. Glenn shakes his head "Nah, didn't wanna upset you anymore than you already were," he says, tiptoeing around the subject of Daryl.

I can't help but feel bad about Glenn and Maggie. Every time I see the black and blue bruises that decorated his face, I can't help but be reminded of who caused it. I hadn't thought about him in years. The only times I was reminded of the faded remembrance of his face were in old family portraits that were in boxes up in my mom's attic.

1992 or 3 maybe, I was three years old in the picture, mom was heavily pregnant, and dad looked so young. I never realized how young both my parents were when they had me until I looked at those photos. Mom looks maybe 19, dad had to be at least 21. He's got me on his hip, we're all pushed in close, one arm around a waist, Dad's face and I's squished together. We looked so happy.

When I saw his face out in the crowd, I was 12 years old again up in the attic, sorting through boxes, finding the dusty portraits. Wondering how he could leave us. I wasn't stupid. I remembered those last few months, the last year. I remembered the drinking, the fighting, the bruises. I remembered the broken potted plants I remembered my brother's broken arm. I just couldn't believe the man who wore such a bright smile could be so evil.

How could he hurt me, hurt my brother, hurt my mom? I feel like I'm sitting in my paternal grandmother's kitchen this time, maybe 15, listening to her blab on and on about his family. His wife, his daughter. His daughter he loved so dearly, the daughter who had replaced me. 'He just loves her so much,' she said 'No one can take away a father's love for their daughter'. I hadn't thought of him since that moment. After that, I gave up on having a dad. I gave up on waiting. I finally realized he just didn't love me, and I couldn't change that.

But yesterday, seeing him again was like a punch to the gut, and finding out that he was the one who hurt my friends that made me furious. I wanted to be the one to hunt him down. I wanted to be the one to kill him. I couldn't wait to see his face when he realized who I was and what I was going to do.

"Glenn, can I tell you something? But you can't get mad" his brows furrow, a sliver of a smile displaying on his lips as his mouth opens to say something. I'm quick to cut him off, finally revealing the hardest secret I've ever had to keep. "the governor is my dad" his eyes widen, and fear sets in quickly, terrified he'll hate me. "What?" he asks, it coming out as a half laugh as he stares at me. His eyes fall up and down my body, examining every single one of my facial features, finding everyone that even slightly resembled Philips. "Are you joking?" he asks, head cocking to the side in disbelief. I shake my head slowly, and he lets out a quiet "oh my god."

"I didn't even know this governor guy was him until I saw him. You're not mad, are you?" he shakes his head, letting my anxieties settle. "No..not mad, just...shocked, yo-you...wow."

Taglist

@rivversin @soul4death @silicone-bonez @nezukos-number1fan @jai-lovely @maziejay08 @oi-itse @rhaenryawhore @kimbunnysstuff @blipblopper @ramielll @ilyhannah @daryldixonnn @delicatebearpandaopera @daryldixmedown @duckybird101 @0-imjusthere-0 @tanuki-tsuki

[cawthorntales]

Grayson: So are you excited for our date?

Glenn: I'm very excited!

Grayson: I'm glad to hear it. I'm looking forward to get to know you a bit more.

Glenn: I'm an open book. Fire away!

Grayson: Any secret talent I should know about?

Glenn: I can tell what color a flower will be before it emerges from its bud. I mean I know what color everything in my garden is but if I'm like out at a park and there are trees or shrubs yet to bloom I can see in my mind what color they'll be. Spellcaster blood I guess. Not the best secret talent, I can't show it off at parties, but I enjoy it.

Grayson: That's an amazing talent! Don't sell yourself short. I can't even grow a weed. So being able to tell what a bud will even be is awesome.

Glenn: Thank you Grayson.

Grayson: You're welcome. So far am I what you expected or thought I'd be? Or have I surprised you?

Glenn: The camera does not do you justice, you're way cuter in person. Not to say the entry photo looked bad, just you look really good. You also check in on us everyday which is just the sweetest. I thought we'd have to come seek you out and have battles for who could speak to you for the day. Like one conversation winner and the rest of us stuck in a walk in freezer or something. But you check in with all of us, it's good. Plus, seeing abs in person is always nice. I have been sad not to meet Olive yet though, do you have any pictures on your phone?

*Grayson blushes*

Grayson: Thank you! What is your biggest dream?

Glenn: To find my person. I know that's probably the annoying stereotypical answer but it's true. I'd like to live in a world where it's okay to be different, where differences are celebrated you know. I want to find someone who can say with a real smile on their face, that's my guy and he works some magic. I'm not ambitious for fame or fortune, my garden generates enough income. But I'd like to find someone I can share life with. To be at my side through the ups downs and diagonally's. Is that a word? It sounds like it should be. I'd like to grow my garden more sure, but I'd rather have someone to sit in my garden with you know?

Grayson: Not annoying or stereotypical at all. I'm after the same thing. I think you kind of have to be to make yourself so vulnerable on a tv show.

Glenn: Very true. It's an interesting experience for sure.

Grayson: What do you like most about yourself?

Glenn: This is going to sound so conceited! My confidence. My grandfather has always been big on being proud of where we come from. He taught me lots from a young age about spells and gardening and the like, but he also taught me to trust myself. That everything we do, bar breathing and such, is a learned skill. We always have the capacity to grow, be better, do better. I have a toolbox of physical and mental skills. Put me in a tricky situation and I will find a way to thrive, like the saplings that burst through the pavement. There's stuff I would not have made it through if I didn't start out with the belief that I could succeed. So yeah, I like that I'm self assured. I also really like my birthmarks. I used to hate them because kids would tease me about having a dirty face or a dirty arm all the time. But… they make me me. I wouldn't know the guy looking back at me from the mirror without them, I love that they make me unique.

Grayson: Doesn't sound conceited to me at all. Nothing wrong with believing in yourself. I wish I was able to do it more myself. Your grandfather sounds like a pretty awesome guy. For what it is worth I think your birthmarks are adorable.

*Glenn winks*

Grayson: What do you love most about the outdoors?

Glenn: Getting to see the beauty that exists in nature, it takes your breath away. Like in Belgium there's this forest that annually will have all these bluebells spring up amongst the trees making it look like a fairytale. Or the waterfalls in Yosemite park make lunar rainbows called moonbows which look stunning. But I mean you don't have to go to the big famous places to see it. You might see a tree in the park that's been there one hundred years and you just think about all that the world has been through in that time and that tree has just been there and kept standing. Or the wildflowers that grow out in the fields year after year.

Grayson: I love how excited you sound. Nature is very beautiful. But I think I like the view in front of me just a bit more.

*Glenn blushes*

~

Week two is solo dates. Each guy is taken to the same date venue(I lack options lol) Grayson will give one interaction a get to know. It is up to your contestant then to engage on the date. Glenn did the following: flirt, compliment appearance, i love your smile and flatter. He then left Grayson to talk to this old guy as well as other people at the venue the rest of the date. @changingplumbob

[rickorty4thesoul]

Just a small excerpt from a fic <3 Sexual but in a crack/humorous kind of way? Basically just Morty seducing his grandfather for his own personal gain.

Rick looked up quickly, and almost choked at the sight of his grandson just standing there leaning against the doorframe in a skimpy outfit.

His eyes traveled downwards, taking in the pale bare skin that was showing in too many places, and what was covering anything was very, very fitting...aw fuck. Rick's head snapped up and he forced himself to look at Morty's face and nothing else.

"What-" He finally choked out, "What the actual fuck are you wearing?!" When did Morty even get this outfit, he hated shopping. And why was Rick only seeing it now? The scientist shook his head to clear away the thoughts. 'Keep it together, Sanchez. You can be a horny fuck later.'

Morty shrugged innocently, the movement causing the bottom of his top to hike up higher, giving Rick a very good view of the boy's chest before it fell back down. "I wanted to try something new. You don't like it?" He asked, worrying his bottom lip with his teeth. "Y-You said you didn't care about things like this, so I thought... I'll go change."

Rick inwardly groaned. Great, wasn't he supposed to support whatever his grandson wanted to do with his body and life? Beth will definitely kill him for this. "Fuck-no, Morty, it's fine, I was surprised that's all. Don't get your panties in a twist. Wait, are you actually wearing panties?"

Morty giggled at that, the sound making Rick have to cross his legs quickly, lest he let the whole world know he was enjoying this too much. It was almost like the kid was doing this on purpose...

Yeah, right. That was just the wistful thinking of a demented old man. But, damn, the brat was lucky he had SOME morals and cared too much about him to do anything when he wanted nothing more than to ravish the boy in front of him.

Said boy frowned and moved towards Rick, taking his face in his hands. "Are you okay, Rick? Your face is red, are you running a fever," he asked, looking up at the scientist from his long eyelashes. "Is there something I can do to help? Water, medicine, something sweet maybe? That always makes me feel better."

Rick stared, open-mouthed, before nodding slowly. "Yeah, something sweet..." What the actual fuck was wrong with him?

Morty's entire face lit up, and he reached into his pocket pulling out a lollipop, before unwrapping it and popping it in his mouth. He slowly twirled it around in his mouth with his tongue, making it way more suggestive than sucking a lollipop should ever be.

Morty noticed Rick's surprised stare and smiled smugly. 'Bingo!' He mentally cheered. This had to have been the first time he had seen his grandfather completely speechless. Just a little bit more and that gaming console was all his.

"Oh, I'm sorry, did you want one? I only have this one, but I could share it with you," he said, giving the lollipop an extra roll around in his mouth. He watched as Rick's eyes followed every movement, the old man's Adam's apple moving up and down nervously. Morty's eyes narrowed in concentration.

Time to step it up a notch. He climbed up on the old man's lap, placing his hands on the back of Rick's chair and pushing him back slightly. Rick's eyes snapped wide open in panic, and finally tried to push Morty off him. "Okay, okay, whatever you're playing at you need to stop. Hey, are you listening to me?!"

Green eyes sparkled with amusement and Rick realized the little shit was enjoying this. What was his game plan? Was this a dare or was he trying to embarrass him by making him get a hard-on. Which if that was the case, then we have a winner! And the little bastard had the audacity to look confused!

"What do you mean? Can't I spin time with my grandpa without going on adventures? You never want to hang out with me anymore," Morty muttered, shoulder's drooping.

This was probably the part where Rick should comfort his grandson, promising to spend more time with him and all that sentimental bull crap. But he could only seem to focus on the lollipop in Morty's mouth glistening with spit, his legs trapped between the boy's thighs, and how he could clearly see down his shirt if he chose to do so. Morty pouted, and it took every last ounce of willpower not to capture the boy's lips in his own.

"Whatever, I don't know why I even try to talk to you anymore," Morty muttered, getting up.

"No!" Rick dragged him back down, and the boy let out a surprised squeak, face now as red as Rick's. "I mean, ugh, fuck you Morty, I'm listening okay. Now, what could you possibly want?" Rick snapped, trying to ignore the body squirming against his. "Look, let's talk, but for fuck's sake, go change first. You're distracting me."

“And what if I don’t wanna?”

"Why you little brat-I'll give you whatever you want, just get out of those fucking clothes!"

"Whatever I want, really?" Morty's squealed excitedly, "Even a Nintendo Switch?"

“Um, yeah, sure?”

Morty jumped up with a cheer almost knocking Rick out of his chair. He pulled Rick’s face back towards his and kissed him sloppily on the cheek multiple times. “Thank you, thank you, thank you, you’re the best grandpa in the world! Haha, fuck you, Summer!”

Wait, what?

Morty must have seen Rick’s confused look because he smiled sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. “Uh, would you be mad if I said this was a dare to get you to buy me a switch?” He chuckled nervously.

Any sexual feelings that Rick had felt only moments before was now replaced by red-hot anger. A dare? This was all because of a dare. He went through all this embarrassment because of a fucking childish dare?!

“Morty, you son of a bitch, I’ll kill you!” He growled, grabbing for the boy. Morty yelped, barely dodging Rick’s hands, and scrambled up the stairs. “No take backs!” He chirped. “Oh, and you can have this, I hate blueberry.” Morty tossed the lollipop down hitting Rick square in the face, before running off, cackling.

Silence once again engulfed the garage, leaving only a very flustered, and very embarrassed man. Rick popped the lollipop in his mouth and crushed it between his teeth, thinking of every non-lethal way he could get back at his fucking sneaky ass grandson.

[heavensbeehall]

"Catching Fire", Chapter 18

Part 2: The Quell

Chapter 18: Katniss is very worried Cinna will be killed. For his interview, Peeta tells the world Katniss and he are married and she is pregnant. All the victors hold hands in an unprecedented show of unity. Then the Capitol shuts everything down. Haymitch has some final advice. "Stay alive," as always but also something new: "remember who the enemy is." The next morning they head to the Arena. Cinna is beaten. Katniss is raised into a water Arena.

End of Part 2.

[Cinna] makes a small, gracious bow. And suddenly I am so afraid for him. What has he done? Something terribly dangerous. An act of rebellion in itself. And he's done it for me. [...] and I'm afraid he has hurt himself beyond repair. The significance of my fiery transformation will not be lost on President Snow.

We all agree that Cinna is part of the Rebellion, right? That this was not an accident or coincidence? Snow was trying to shame Katniss with the wedding dress and Cinna transformed that into something else. That alone would be something. But to turn her into the symbol of the rebellion?

Cinna should also leave the Capitol now. But he doesn't. He gives his designs to Plutarch, so it's not like he didn't have advance warning. It's such a strange thing. To think he must have gone to school, studied fashion, worked his way up in the Hunger Games system somehow--I assume they start as preps? I'm not sure--He finally gets to design for a tribute and he picks Katniss, makes dresses for her for a year, and then makes a dress he knows will get him killed. Not just end his career. End his life.

But there is a sense that this is what he wanted the whole time. Maybe he just expresses himself through fashion and he feels this is how he "says" his piece.

And the description of his beating is just a paragraph, really. Katniss is the only one surprised, I think, and even she knew he was in trouble.

There. He's done it again. Dropped a bomb that wipes out the efforts of every tribute who came before him. Well, maybe not. Maybe this year he has only lit the fuse on a bomb that the victors themselves have been building. Hoping someone would be able to detonate it. Perhaps thinking it would be me in my bridal gown. Not knowing how much I rely on Cinna's talents, whereas Peeta needs nothing more than his wits. Katniss is Peeta's biggest fan. If you did a shot everytime her inner monologue is about how good, nice, or smart he is, you'd be drunk after one chapter.

I sense Peeta reaching out for me. Tears run down his face as I take his hand. How real are the tears? Is this an acknowledgment that he has been stalked by the same fears that I have? That every victor has? Every parent in every district in Panem?

You know what this made me think of, which is kind of unrelated but hear me out. In America we have a school shooting problem. Kids die every year. But I have read that the way the news media has covered the school shootings--by highlighting the killer or killers' story and narrative--that it encourages more shootings. This is how you become famous. It go so bad that after the Parkland shootings students had to ask the media to please not use the shooter's name and instead focus on the 17 kids who were killed.

But the way the Hunger Games coverage focuses on the victor (do they get a "winner's edit"?) it diminishes the lives of the Fallen.

And here Katniss thinks about Rue's family, and wonders if Peeta has the same fears of having children as her. Now I think Katniss' aversion to having children is probably an extreme example but I bet every parent in the districts has thought about their child being reaped. And every kid has had nightmares about it, or thought about what they'd do.

Like how kids have to do school shooting drills now in America.

I also wanted to say something about the Capitol caring more about a fictional unborn baby than poor-already-born kids. Because that is so like rich people.

I have too many thoughts.

I should cut this. (And I do apologize for comparing shooters to winners, but more about the media coverage, k?)

[irondad-creator-awards]

Writer Spotlight - Spagbol99

This week we're talking to the 2023 Winner of the Best OG Writer Award and the Best Plot Twist author, @spagbol99 of A Peter Parker Problem.

Summary:

Peter Parker was back from the dead. At least that is what everybody told him. He'd been snapped out of existence until some sort of time travel and an active death wish by his mentor had saved him and the universe. Just your average sort of life for a 16 year old from Queens. Peter comes back to find May has a husband and a kid. A new family he has to fit into. But he has done it before, he can do it again. The only thing that feels solid is Tony: the Blip and fatherhood have mellowed him and Peter loves the bond they have now. He knows Tony would be there for him through anything. But Tony needs to focus on his own recovery - not small time Peter Parker problems. When things at home take a turn for the worse, Peter decides that he'll handle it himself. He is Spider-man. He's been to space and fought aliens. He can get through anything. After all, if May is happy, he is happy, right? Right?

How did you get into Irondad?

I stumbled into reading fan fiction for the first time at the start of the pandemic.  I was a mild MCU fan at the time, so I went in search of Spider-Man stories and ran straight into IronDad and the rest is history… !

What’s your favorite Irondad scene?   

Ooh, that is a mean question, how can I choose just one?!  I think it has to be the ferry scene for me.  I’m sure it will come as no surprise to anyone who has read my writing that I live for the angst!

When did you start writing and what made you sit down and write that first story? 

For the purposes of this question, I’ll assume you mean writing fan fic but I’ve written original fiction for a long time.  As soon as I found IronDad and MCU fanfic at the start of the pandemic, I devoured fic after fic.  I loved the recurring tropes and seeing how people tackled them in different ways.  As I read more and more, ideas started to fester within me and I decided I wanted to try my hand at writing my own fic.  I wrote 150K in four months so it’s fair to say that I was inspired and enthused.  I actually had no intention of posting.  After sitting on the finished product for a month, I decided ‘what the hell’ and went for it. I’m so glad that I did.

What do you like about writing most? 

Pure escapism.  There is something about creating and manipulating a world that only you control that is very powerful.

Which of your stories is your favorite and why? 

Asking me to choose between my children?  How rude!  Hmmm, I would say that A Peter Parker Problem is probably my favourite.  Something about it being my very first fan fic and being the exact kind of story that I like to read – which was my motivation to write it.

What’s your favorite trope to write?  

Found family is probably my favourite trope overall.  I also love writing characters overcoming trauma (or at least starting to), whomp and miscommunication. 

What inspired the story? In my original works, I have often written stories about teenagers in difficult family situations so when I started reading fic and came across the ‘Aunt May’s abusive boyfriend’ tag, it started ideas churning.  I kept thinking how unique a situation it would be to have the physical power that Peter has but still be subjected to abuse.  That even though we can be powerful, confident people, it doesn’t mean that we are immune to coercion and abuse in our lives.  In this story, Peter particularly is in such a vulnerable position post Endgame coming back to a family that has changed in his absence and I imagined how he’d do anything to keep May happy after the grief she had been through. 

Can you tell us a little about the experience of writing it — did anything stand out or was there a particular person that helped more than others? 

 It was such a fun experience writing it.  I hadn’t felt that passionate about anything in a long while and it gave me something to focus on during that early pandemic uncertainty.  It quite honestly helped my sanity being stuck indoors during lockdown with two young children.  At this point I didn’t know anybody in fandom – I had only read fic not interacted with anyone so other than a few later chapters, it was not beta read.  What struck me most about the experience was the warm welcome I had by the IronDad community once I started posting.  I was overwhelmed by the support for the story.  I hadn’t imagined that so many people would read it, I would’ve been happy with a handful of hits, so to say I was blown out of the water was an understatement.  Similarly, I reached out to a few authors to take a look at some later chapters I was unsure of and they helped without hesitation.  I have made long lasting, deep friendships, meeting up with three people in two different parts of the globe in the last 18 months – including a trip to Avengers Campus in California!  I can honestly say that finding fan fic has enriched my life immensely.

How did you feel to be a winner of the Awards last year? 

It was such a lovely surprise to be honored with a win last year.  The fandom has such a slew of talented, prolific writer that I was surprised to have won.  Thank you to everyone for reading my scribblings and taking the time to vote for me.

Thank you so much @spagbol99 for answering our questions and being part of the Awards.

Nominations for the 2024 Irondad Creator Awards are now open here.

[calacuspr]

Bellingham wants to be a role model off the pitch as well as on it

It’s already been an amazing year for Jude Bellingham.

Soon after his Borussia Dortmund side lost the Bundesliga title to rivals Bayern Munich on the last day of the 2022-23 season, he joined Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Since then, he has helped Los Blancos to win La Liga and the Champions League and been named La Liga Player of the Year for a season where he scored 19 goals in 28 games, from midfield.

In the second El Clasico of the season at the newly refurbished Bernabeu, the Englishmen wrote his name in Madrid folklore by scoring a late winner to put Madrid 11 points clear in La Liga and ultimately seal their title win.

So it was no surprise when, a day later, Bellingham won the prestigious Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award, which was presented to him at the Palacio de Cibeles.

“I’m delighted,” said Bellingham. “Simply being here was already an honour. Being named Laureus Breakthrough is a privilege and I have to thank many people, my family, friends and above all the people at Real Madrid who have helped me this year.

“Being here is a privilege, alongside incredible athletes. I hope I can learn something from them tonight before I go home.

“It’s been a good week for the club and on a personal level. When the team wins, I’m always happy. I feel a bit tired after the Clásico and the 120 minutes in Manchester and this award gives me a bit more energy.

“This club is special. Signing for Real Madrid is the best thing that has ever happened to me. It’s the highlight of 2023. I’m grateful to be able to play here every day and to be surrounded by very special people.“

Unsurprisingly, Bellingham understands that with his profile and meteoric rise, he is seen as a role model and an inspiration to others.

Speaking at the Laureus World Sports Awards evening he added: “I got into football because I love it and there is a responsibility that comes with that, the impact that you can have on kids.

"It's important that I try to be a good role model. I'm not perfect but I want to have a lasting impact on youth growing up.

"It's important as athletes that as we become more popular we end up having a platform and we understand our responsibility for the next generation

"I want to help people along the way and give people the opportunity to get to get to where I have got to, because other people have given me that chance.”

Unsurprisingly, Bellingham started doing charity work soon after he made his debit for Birmingham, at just 16, supporting The Mustard Seed Project which provides food, education and health care to deprived children in Kenya.

He still supports that initiative today, but said at the time: ”It’s something I’m really passionate about. Some friends of the family have set up a charity that helps students in Kenya. It’s not a very wealthy country and a lot of people go into a school without good facilities.

“It’s important to me to help that kind of community when I can. I want to be remembered, not just for football but for my actions off the pitch. The only way I can do that is by carrying on doing what I’ve started to set in motion.

The ultimate aim is to make as much positive impact as I can,” he added. “The project currently is to build as many classrooms as possible and I think as I grow, the charity will grow as well.

“The more attention I get from doing good things on the pitch, hopefully that will crossover to the charity, so it’s definitely at the back of my mind as a driving factor for me to keep working hard and performing well so that the charity can benefit too.

“We recently sent some kit out for the football team. I saw a picture and it gave me a great feeling seeing how happy they were and knowing how much it will help them going forward.

“From an off the pitch point of view, it’s one of the best things I think I can do, so I’m just really excited to continue with that work.”

Regular Calacus readers will know that we firmly believe that sport has the power to change the world, as Nelson Mandela said at the inaugral Laureus World Sports Awards in 2000.

High profile athletes also have a responsibility to use their platform positively and it’s a credit to Bellingham that he recognised from an early age that, with his profile, he can make a huge difference to disadvantaged communities.

[crazygriffinlord]

HELP! I ACCIDENTALLY AMELIORATED CARS 2! Part 3! (NOT FOR KIDS! NSFW!)

[The scene transitions back to Radiator Springs, where morning light filters through the windows of the schoolroom. Sally and Lightning sit together, the air filled with a sense of quiet anticipation. Lightning holds a letter in his wheels, his focus intent as he reads its contents. Luigi waits patiently nearby, his expression curious.]

Lightning McQueen: [Reading aloud] "Dear Lightning, I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to express my gratitude for your kind words about 'The Garage of Rust-eze.' Your support means the world to me. Best regards, Mater."

[As Lightning finishes reading, he carefully folds the letter and tucks it into the pages of "The Garage of Rust-eze," Mater's book, which sits prominently on the table before him. Sheets of notes, meticulously taken by Lightning for his upcoming review, are scattered across the tabletop.]

Sally Carrera: [Observing] Mater's book seems to hold a special place in your heart.

Lightning McQueen: [Nodding] Yeah, Mater's always had a unique way with words. It's the least I can do to show my support.

As Sally races laps around the training track, her wheels spin with determination, but she encounters some difficulty navigating the twists and turns. Lightning watches from the sidelines, concern furrowing his grille as he observes her struggle.

Sally Carrera: [Panting] Lightning, I need to talk to you.

Lightning McQueen: [Approaching] What's wrong, Sally? You seem off your game today.

Sally Carrera: [Sighs] It's Flo. I saw her with Leland in the garage, laughing together. I think she's in love with him.

[Lightning's tires skid slightly at Sally's revelation, his expression a mix of surprise and uncertainty.]

Lightning McQueen: [Defensive] Sally, you know that's not true. Flo's been our friend for years. She wouldn't...

Sally Carrera: [Interrupting] Don't play dumb, Lightning. I see the way you look at her. You're jealous of Leland.

[Lightning's grille tenses with frustration as Sally's accusations hit home. He tries to refocus the conversation on Sally's race training results, but her emotions are already running high.]

Lightning McQueen: Sally, let's talk about your training results. I've...

Sally Carrera: [Interrupting, her voice rising] Training results? You gave me an "Alpha minus"! You think my races are just for ego-stroking, don't you?

[The tension between them escalates as Sally expresses her desire for races that spread love and happiness, rather than mere competition.]

Sally Carrera: I want races that make every car happy, not just the winner!

[Lightning tries to redirect the conversation to the history of great female racecars, but Sally's frustration boils over, her words dripping with resentment.]

Sally Carrera: [Voice trembling] I hate those great female racecars! They gave away everything out of love and weakness!

[As emotions reach a breaking point, Lightning decides to prove Sally wrong, timing the laps she struggled with and finding them perfect. But Sally, overwhelmed by her emotions, accuses Lightning of cheating before fleeing the room in tears, leaving Lightning alone with his thoughts.]

Doc Hudson strides into the room, his presence commanding attention, with Mater trailing behind him. Mater, ever the stickler for protocol, insists that Lightning address Doc directly when Mater wants to speak.

Mater: Lightning, when I want to talk to ya, ya talk to Doc. Got it?

[Lightning, caught off guard by Mater's directive, hesitates before complying, addressing Doc as if he were Mater.]

Lightning McQueen: Alright, Mater. What's on your mind?

[Doc, perplexed by Lightning's sudden change in behavior, furrows his grille in confusion. Mater's patience wears thin as Lightning continues to address Doc as if he were Mater, a misunderstanding that only serves to exacerbate tensions.]

Doc Hudson: Lightning, I ain't Mater. What in tarnation are ya goin' on about?

[Mater's frustration reaches a boiling point, his voice tinged with irritation as he demands Lightning's attention.]

Mater: I told ya, Lightning! Address Doc when ya wanna talk to me!

[Before Lightning can respond, Flo enters the room, her presence a welcome distraction from the mounting tension. She delivers a message to Mater, her tone cheerful despite the underlying tension in the room.]

Flo: Mater, Leland would like a copy of his book. He's been asking for it.

[senjuushi]

Main Story: Main Story 1

Episode 4: The Put-Away Envelope

*scene starts at the training field*

—Two years later. 

Instructor: And the winner of Philcrevert Military Academy’s marksmanship competition is... (Player Name)! 

Vivian: Yay—! Congrats (Player Name)! That’s awesome, super awesome! I can’t believe you won! 

Russell: Congratulations! To think that you won against senior students, even...! You never cease to surprise me, (Player Name)-kun. 

Master: 

It’s all thanks to the UL96A1. 

Vivian: Your favorite gun... or I guess, it’s more like your partner by now. You take such great care of it, it’s no wonder it helped you here. 

Russell: That may be true, but... it may become an issue if you treasure it too much. It was last year, wasn’t it? If I recall, you let yourself fall into a river during training while trying to protect that gun. 

Vivian: Ahaha, I remember that! You know, (Player Name), if you cherish it that much, maybe the day when the UL96A1 will awaken as a Noble Musketeer isn’t too far away! 

Master: 

A Noble Musketeer? That’s... 

Vivian: Yeah, yeah! Just a bit ago, it was in the news that Her Majesty the Queen awakened Brown Bess as a Noble Musketeer. 

Vivian: Musketeers sound so cool...! Right now, they’re basically celebrities, but they were the key figures in leading the Revolutionary War to victory.

Vivian: If it wasn’t for the effort of the Resistance’s Master and their Musketeers, we’d still be living in a world ruled by the World Empire, right? Seriously, just thinking about it—

Vivian: ...it seriously freaks me out. 

Russell: ...how about you two go back to your dorm and rest? You want to take care of your beloved gun’s maintenance right away, don’t you, (Player Name)-kun? 

Vivian: Ah... that’s right! Sorry about that, (Player Name). I should follow your example and take care of my gun too! 

*scene changes to the dorm room*

The two of them return to their dorm and perform their guns’ maintenance in Vivian’s room. Right away, (Player Name) takes the UL96A1 out of its case.

(Player Name) silently begins the process of dismantling and cleaning, but... as their hands move, they notice that Vivian isn’t making much progress.

Vivian: ......

Master: 

Vivian? 

Do you not feel well? 

Vivian: Huh? Ah— ...sorry, I’m fine. I was just spacing out a bit! 

Vivian: ......

Vivian: ...hey, um. 

Vivian: To be honest, I’m... about my gun... this UL85A2, I don’t like it very much. 

Vivian: The UL85A2 is my favorite type of gun, and it’s a wonderfully versatile assault rifle, but... this one was supposedly used by the World Empire. 

Vivian: It’s weird, it’s it? In the future, it will be the mission of us cadets to protect people as the world’s weapon and shield. 

Master: 

You’ll do just fine. 

Vivian: Thank you. When you tell me it’s okay, somehow, it always seems true. 

Vivian: ...hey, so there’s this envelope.

Vivian takes a single envelope from her desk. It’s tightly sealed, and there doesn’t seem to be an address or sender written anywhere on it. 

Vivian: It’s kind of odd, but can I ask you to do something? I want you to have this letter, (Player Name). 

Vivian: In case... just in case, okay? 

Vivian: If it ever happens that I... if I ever end up dead, I want you to open this envelope. 

Vivian: This is the only thing I’m asking of you, (Player Name). Would you please... 

Master: 

That sounds ominous. 

What makes you bring this up? 

Vivian: ...huh? ...ah, haha, yeah, good point~☆

Vivian: I’m just kidding, really! Sorry for saying something weird, (Player Name)!

Vivian: ...wait. Sorry, I just realized that I forgot something back at the training field! I’m going to go get it! 

Saying that, Vivian hurries out of the room. 

Master: 

Vivian was acting strange. 

...I’m worried about her. 

*scene changes to outside the school, at night*

As you chase after Vivian through the school’s grounds, you notice people near the training field. It seems that they’re talking in private. 

You’ve heard one of their voices before. 

—...it’s Vivian. 

Vivian: ...yes. I understand. ...yeah. Then, I’ll......the crystal. 

Vivian: I’ll do it... something like that. Yes, then... at the Eastern gate, ...leave it to me. 

—who is she talking to, and what is the conversation about? What does “crystal” mean? 

Besides that, the Eastern gate is a restricted area. The cadets aren’t allowed to go there—

Vivian: Alright, goodbye for now. 

Master: 

(Sh-She’s coming this way!)

Vivian: ...wah! Oh, it’s just you (Player Name). You startled me~!

Vivian: ...what’s wrong? You’re making a weird face. 

Master: 

Who were you talking to...? 

What were you doing here? 

Vivian: ...it’s nothing, really. I just came out here to get something I’d forgotten. Did you think it was something else? 

Vivian: Anyway, I have some big news! There’s going to be a party in the cafeteria soon, to celebrate your victory in the marksmanship competition! 

Vivian: C’mon, let’s get going! It can’t start without the star of the show, y’know. You won’t be getting any sleep tonight, that’s for sure~☆

[mxreece]

Ashes To Ash's (1)

Oh hello, Dear Reader has come to visit I see. Well, as you've come to me, it seems that I will have to tell you a story.

Oh don't make that face, you know that I'm only kidding haha.

What would you like to read today? Perhaps a love story? Or how about a story from another world? Maybe the other world is even this one haha.

Oh you have a story you want to- ah, but that's not a story Dear Reader, that's the setting. Well, if you insist on the story book then who am I to argue. Let's see what we can find there today.

Ahem.

This story sees the world being changed irreparably one day in mid June. On that day people gained magic abilities in order to fight the hordes of monsters pouring from the open wounds in space and time, doors that led to other worlds.

The magic that was given was often grand in that age, and this was for the sake of the species survival you see. As time went on the grand magics of huge flame bursts and ice spears because rare, however, the powers settled in more people and became more specialized for the sake of the species development. Some people who would have gotten fire magic before would now instead get the ability heat metal, a somewhat useless power for a combatant, sure, but the man became a smith and a welder in the end.

As more gates between worlds opened, and as more people with powers sought to to claim and conquer the worlds on the other side, it was clear that war had been declared. Many people fought and lost their lives, even more thought that the gates had now become part of life and should not be closed for good, and in the end there was a winner.

It was not this world that won.

Dear Reader, you and I both dislike the chosen one narrative, do we not? Sadly it seems, however, that we both have gotten somewhat attached to this doomed world. Ah. What to do, what to do.

There was a man who was born into this world near the 50th anniversary of the first wounds opening. He lived a boring life and died young. His power would have been useful for the cause, hm. What do you say? Maybe we can indulge and choose someone this time, haha, I think I know the perfect way to motivate him. Keep up and follow me, Dear Reader!

[Another terrible morning had come and gone while the worlds greatest liar once again stayed curled up under his heavy covers. With no school, no job, no good family to speak of, was it any surprise that he was once again hiding in bed even after hours of being awake?]

I rolled over towards the unnatural light and- what?

[Of course the lack of a job was a recent development. He had been fired for talking back to the boss who everyone hated and was made out as an example.]

What the fuck is that thing?! I pulled myself up and looked around in the dark. No one was there, but the window kept updating anyways.

"What are you?! Some stalkers magic or what?!"

[Getting a new job wouldn't be too hard, though. There were the contacts he had from coworkers and friends, and if nothing else he could even try to solo a low ranked gate under the table.]

"What the hell are you talking about?" I swatted at the window, hoping to kill it.

[Oh, but that wasn't a good idea.]

Pain shot through my spine and into my brain and eyes in seconds. I knew the sensation from before and fuck it hurt. Pictures and voices were streaming into my head so fast and without control that it felt like years had passed before it finally subsided.

[He laid there, breathing heavily, trying to understand what kind of ability could cause both the window and the painful memories.]

"Shut up"

[He was almost too focused on recovering to realize just what he had just experienced, and learned.]

"Be quiet"

[But he could no longer ignore what the being behind the window had given him; a way that could perhaps control his own powers.]

"I am in control"

[Maybe he could even make some easy cash and finally move into a larger place with a proper kitchen as well from all the loot.]

I rolled over and went back to scrolling social media, deciding to ignore the window for now and be prepared for an attack. It followed me when I left bed, dutifully described the low-key lunch at five, and would not leave for even a second.

I slept lightly that night. And the night after that. And many nights forward until my body collapsed, and even after that the apartment seemed no worse for ware when I woke up.

Never once did it fail to propose taking hunter jobs during this time. If I talked about money or the space limitations of my house the thing would try to lure me into taking a hunting contract.

Is this my only option?

[Viktor thought as he leaned closer to the Narrator.]

[evermorehqs]

CATCHING MY BREATH, STARING OUT AN OPEN WINDOW 

Tiffany Mutton is based on Taffyta from Wreck It Ralph. She is a 25 year old human, gossip columnist/influencer, and uses she/her pronouns. She has no powers. Tiffany is portrayed by Madison Iseman and she is open.

CATCHING MY DEATH, AND I COULDN’T BE SURE 

Being anything other than the best had never been an option for Tiffany Mutton. Winning at any cost was hammered into her petite, blonde little head from the moment she could open her eyes and she didn’t realize there was any other way to live. Thankfully, she wasn’t like one of those kids who were told they were winners when in reality they were mediocre at best, she actually had the talent to go with it. There was never a moment throughout the girl’s life when she didn’t take the opportunity to show off, reveling in the spotlight, wanting everyone to know that she was the best and if she wasn’t...that she was willing to do just about anything to change that. If that meant spreading rumors, sabotage - you name it, she’ll do it.

Though most wouldn’t assume it, considering her looks, Tiffany was a real adrenaline junkie - just not always in the typical way. She didn’t need to jump out of planes or off of bridges with a thin cord keeping her safe to get a rush, though she loved that, but her preferred form of getting her heart pumping was her gossip column and various social accounts. There was nothing quite like pissing people off for a reaction, spilling secrets and spreading rumors in between daredevil stunts just to feel even more powerful than she was. Tiffany was the kind of woman you wanted on your side, she somehow knew everything about everyone and wasn’t afraid to use it to her advantage. Her memory from before Evermore is spotty on the best of days but it feels only natural for her to claw her way to the top of the metaphorical food chain, looking down on everyone else with a superior glint in her eyes.

I HAD A FEELING SO PECULIAR 

❀ Bobby Zimuruski: Sure, he's cute but at what cost? There might not have been someone Tiffany found more annoying in the entire world...even counting Vanellope.  

❀ Dacia Green: Judgment runs through both Dacia and Tiffany’s veins so it’s no surprise the two of them have become close. Any day is a good day to get brunch and gossip about every one they see. 

❀ Kieran Campbell: Tiffany has a deep-seated need to impress anyone she looks up to and Kieran is no exception. The way he is able to takeover whatever room he’s in and do it while looking good? What isn’t there to be enchanted by?

THAT THIS PAIN WOULD BE FOR EVERMORE

[nathcnielarchibald]

maine stay | serenate

Who: Serena van der Woodsen ( @theserenavdw​ ) & Nate Archibald

When: November 17th, 2022

Location: Maine

Summary: Nate takes Serena away for a weekend in Maine.

Trigger Warnings: none

Serena: “Can we just stay here forever?” A repetition of words she’d spoken much earlier in the day when Serena had still tried to convince Nate to not leave their bed. Back then exploring the mostly sleepy town, most likely being ogled by the few people who didn’t only stay there during the summer season but were actually residents had hardly seemed appealing, a fact that hours later couldn’t be further from the truth. Maybe they had attracted a few looks in the beginning, but that most likely was due to the fact that even in their most casual clothes they still stuck out  in the little bar, that really was much more an old pub, like two very beautiful but equally sore thumb. Instead of being questioned or ostracised by the few locals it rather felt like they were embraced wholeheartedly, not with lavish attention but more so with the same easy going and uncomplicated nature the other patrons were treated with - a fact that should hardly been surprising but it had been a long time since either of them had to pick up their own drinks from a counter, not to mention those drinks being a questionable house wine or beer. The pool table had been occupied by a few men ever since they arrived and Serena had only half heartedly paid attention, though perhaps obvious enough for them to gesture towards her and Nate once they clearly had enough, or maybe just wanted to see if the city kids really knew their way around a pool table, a challenge Serena was more than up for, even if the only person she’d be challenging clearly was Nate at this moment though she doubted he would be anything but up for it. “Looser gets the next round…and is at the winners mercy all night long?” She taunted Nate playfully, beckoning him to join her as she made her way over to the now empty table, not exactly minding the amused onlookers, especially because she knew she could more than hold her own when it came to this - what she couldn’t quite calculate was how good Nate’s game was, but she was willing to bet that he was at least a worth opponent and at best would make this difficult for her.

Nate: "Stop tempting me or I might actually make us stay here forever." Escaping the city and everything that came with it - unwanted attention from his family, Gossip Girl and friends, had already been so tempting that they now were here in Maine (Portland, to be precise), so there truthfully wasn't too much left to make him want to extend that stay for an undefined period of time. Especially since being here meant he didn't need to be careful to show any kind of affection towards Serena or... worry about anything, really. This place meant entering a different world and privacy that usually neither of them had, two of the reasons why he'd decided to buy a house near one of the smaller ports a couple of years ago in the first place. Not many would expect people like them to come here, it was either the Hamptons or some place a lot fancier, which not only made it absolutely perfect for their current situation but the fact they didn't exactly just effortlessly blend in was certainly proven by the curious yet warmhearted treatment they were receiving from the locals. It was probably the first time since his mother's visit at the Palace that he was completely and utterly relaxed, just taking the day minute by minute enjoying the time spent with Serena to the fullest. "Count me in." He grinned at her, knowing very well that no matter who'd win, they'd both benefit from it in the end but that didn't mean he wouldn't take a little challenge still. Or let her win just for the sake of it. Nate was confident in his pool skills considering there'd been a lot of bored hours spent in the Empire suite training his aiming skills as well as times spent in bars with his lacrosse friends playing endless rounds of pool. Though he was planning on not giving that away too soon. "Ladies first." He said as his gaze met hers, handing her one of the cues after he was done preparing the table for them properly.

Serena: “I forgot to ask, what would you prefer, want me to pretend I need help and you’ll have to teach me or are you a masochist and like the pain of loosing?” Serena teased as he prepped the table and handed her the pool cue. The interesting thing about dating Nate, if that was the right words for being with the person who might have been the one you should have been with all along, was the fact that he knew he’d inside out, had seen every possible trick she had up her sleeves whenever she was interested in someone, had seen her both, in lust and love with countless guys before and yet she had never actually had to play any of those games with him – curiously they felt so much less high stake when they were just that though, a little game to amuse for an evening but not a make or break situation in a relationship. “First ones easy, I’ll give you until the second one to decide if you’d like me to go easy on you!”

Nate: Nate smirked at her teasing words, not even bothering to play offended because he knew she’d be able to tell he was just faking it. “Shouldn’t you know I like a damsel in distress that I can save either from a bad, bad guy or sometimes even from making a fool out of herself?” He teased back, obviously referring to their past while knowing that it had been so much more and not exactly a game back then. Moving a little closer towards her, their faces now only inches apart as his gaze locked with hers, he whispered against her lips, “Maybe it’s you who should admit she’d like me to choose the first option so you can play dirty by distracting me and leaning a little too close into me to make sure you won’t lose.” Nate grinned, and even though he was dying to really kiss her and not just let his lips brush over hers he moved again to put some distance between them, waiting for her to make her first move.

Serena: "Excuse you, I have absolutely never made a fool out of myself!" Serena jokingly argued though her argument died down quickly when he stepped closer, lips inches apart. "Mh, do I need to stand close to you to distract you? I thought just being in my presence is enough of a distraction to make you weak in the knees!" The blonde teased him though it was him who seemed to have the upper hand – at least in terms of the teasing right now – since it was him who stepped away to let her start the game, which she did somewhat gladly, not sure just how much they'd be playing if they'd continue that other game that was hanging in the air right now. A first shot was hardly giving away much about wether or not she was bluffing about her supposed talents, after all it was nothing but a break, quickly claiming the solid balls before she leant back. "Set the stage for you, time to deliver!"

Nate: "Getting weak in the knees just because of your presence? I think you're mistaking me for one of those other fifteen guys who can't get over you." He said, a cheeky grin on his face as he picked up his beer, taking a few sips while she was occupied breaking the triangle. They both knew she wasn't lying when she claimed her presence already did enough to distract him but it was also fun to sometimes... humble her a little. Especially since for whatever reason when it came to something that triggered his competitive side, he was very much able to focus on the task at hand if he wanted to and resist any kind of temptations. "Keep poking me with remarks like that and you're gonna lose this, Van der Woodsen." Once the cue tip was chalked up, he seemingly was just going to take his position but instead he made a quick stop right next to Serena, leaning in for the kiss he’d moved away from earlier. “Mmm, yeah, I think that will do for good luck.” The corners of his mouth twitched slightly as he finally got into position and pocketed the striped ball he’d aimed for before he took his next shot, almost pocketing another of the striped ones but it stopped rolling a few inches in front of the pocket. “Or… maybe it wasn’t enough kissing yet.”

Serena: “Haven’t you heard, we are getting old, most of those guys are married now!” Serena joked, a quick deflection of his remark though it was all in good jest. Didn’t mean she didn’t hate the fact that she knew that she’d put Nate on that list too, or guys she’d treated badly or left heartbroken at some point. “For me to loose I’d actually have to be bad at this…ever thought about that?” She asked with a raised brow, this little back and forth perhaps more fun than the entire act of playing pool would be, plus she was sure they weren’t just entertaining each other but the locals as well at this point. When he kissed her only to declare it was for good luck she rolled her eyes softly, her confidence not yet fading when he expertly aimed for his first shot, not when he almost got a second one, especially since it was an almost. “Maybe I’m not your lucky charm?” She offered laughing before she leant over the table herself, fist shot confident and executed just the way she wanted to, mirroring his earlier success and pocketing a solid one. Hindsight her next move had been cocky, splitting two and aiming to pocket both..which she did only for one of Nate’s striped ones to follow suit. A natural born winner and highly competitive at that it wasn’t exactly hard to read the little pout on her face as she leant back against the wall to have a sip of her drink and give Nate the space to make his next move. “At least I know I can confidently beat you at any poker match!” She finally teased as she decided to step just a little closer again, still giving him enough space while leaning in to get a better look at what he was doing

Nate: “Nah, I’d never claim you’re bad at it just not as good as I am which is going to be the reason you’re not going to win this.” Probably some of the cockiest words that ever left his lips but it served the purpose of not giving in right now. “Yeah, maybe you’re right. Guess I should find myself an actual lucky charm.” He said, pretending to look around the bar to find another woman he could kiss, which was also when he noticed that quite a few people were watching them currently. Somehow he’d successfully faded out everyone around them and hardly noticed the pairs of eyes on them. But he didn’t actually mind, though he did eventually focus on Serena again only to watch her pocket two of her own and one of his. The pout on her lips was to be expected and the hint of a grin on his as well, her remark now making him chuckle. “Well, that’s only because I’m a terrible liar and that also includes trying to bluff when I have a terrible hand!” He argued a little absentmindedly as his gaze roamed across the pool table, trying to figure out which would be the smartest move next before his gaze met hers when he’d finally decided which ball he wanted to pocket next. “If you changed your mind and you want me to reach you, the offer still stands.” His gaze was still on her when he made his next shot, pocketing yet another striped ball only that he didn’t even look this time before he walked around the table to get a better aim for his next attempt - one that turned out to be successful once again. “What do you say? Wanna make the next one with me?”

Serena: Nate wasn’t naturally cocky or boastful so the fact that the was as convinced that he’d win this should have already told her all she needed to know but she had still considered it a bluff until he had proven her wrong. “If you have any more luck this game might be over far too soon!” Serena wouldn’t have been threatened by his joke even in the worst of moments, here, surrounded by locals and onlookers even less so. “That you are - astonishing actually, considering all things!” If anything their upbringing had taught most of them to lie from an early age, a skill that had absolutely passed by Nate. The fact that he wasn’t even properly looking at his chosen target on the table and still succeeded made her grown inwardly, cursing those cocky words that left her mouth earlier but also not so secretly impressed. Apparently there were still a few things to learn about the other. “You sure I won’t impact your abilities?” The blonde asked grinning before she nodded slowly and walked closer towards him. “I’m not asking you to teach me though, just to be perfectly clear!”

Nate: Maybe Nate didn’t like lying because he’d seen what it did too many times while he was growing up, every lie always seemed to blow up in the person’s face eventually and he’d never deemed it necessary to be good at it either. Even if that meant he was different than every other Upper East Side kid in that sense and he got teased about it by his friends. “I think we’ll find out if it does impact them.” He grinned, placing his hands on her waist to gently place her in position - her back towards him while she was now right in front of him. “Fine, we can just say you’re getting the best view of my talent then.” Nate’s voice was slightly lowered, his hot breath against her cheek while he grabbed the cue again as well as her right hand to wrap it around the thick end of the stick, their fingers slightly entwined. He bent them both down a little, just enough to be in the right position to make the shot, barely any space left between their bodies at this point and while it certainly wasn’t as easy to focus as it was before he couldn’t deny that it certainly upped the fun. “Which one do you think I should choose, the one right in the middle or the other on the right?”

Serena: "Who is getting the best view here?" Serena asked, face turned just enough to almost graze his skin without actually touching him. When he moved their bodies to give him the best possible angle for his shot she couldn't help but chuckle quietly, body easily following his lead...something of a change for the blonde who made a habit of fighting him for dominance, only occasionally giving in without a heated and very much beneficial battle first. Serena did not answer him verbally, instead moving just enough to both, tease him and indicate which of the options she was intending for him to aim for. "Come on, shoot your shot...!"

Nate: The fact she was playing along was an obvious one, Nate knew her too well to pretend she wasn’t and that it was him who had the actual upper hand but he enjoyed their little game (and the little show they were giving everyone watching them) too much. And he hoped the same counted for her but he had a pretty good feeling she did enjoy it just as much. A shaky breath escaped him when she moved, so subtle that others except for Serena totally would’ve missed it but he wasn't able to act like being this close to her did nothing to him. His gaze followed the direction in which she moved, focusing on the striped ball as he figured out where he should struck the cue ball best to pocket his. Her encouraging words that followed made his lips stretch into a grin, causing him to loose his focus momentarily, "Be patient." Nate teased. "You up for a little challenge? What if.. I make this one I'll be allowed to do whatever I want to you later tonight?"

Serena: The way he was already clearly going in and out of focus made her think this would be an easy bet, though then there was his offer, somewhere between teasing and overly confident for a man whose breath had just been audibly shaky just moments ago. There was no way she’d back down though or admit that’ she thought there was a chance he might just pocket the ball, instead she shrugged nonchalantly and nodded. “You are challenging yourself, you do realise that?” She asked grinning but nodded softly once she’d looked at the ball again, it’s position challenging enough albeit not impossible. Even if he’d win though, her loss would hardly have any negative connotations for her whatsoever. “Fine, you have yourself a deal. Try not to miss…!”

Nate: “Yes, maybe that’s exactly the kind of motivation I need to give myself an extra push of confidence.” Nate replied as nonchalantly as her previous shrug, only that this time he wasn’t actually quite as confident as before (which was also audible in his voice but simply ignored by himself). Once she fully agreed to the deal, he got into his final position, a few more attempts of really regaining his focus later he finally made the shot - and to his own surprise actually did pocket the ball. It could’ve been a perfect stroke if the cue ball didn’t follow and fell right into the same pocket as the striped ball he’d aimed for, knowing he’d just given Serena a perfect opportunity to place the cue ball anywhere she wanted and make her next move very easy. “Shit.” He cursed under his breath but nonetheless let out a chuckle. “Well, at least the deal’s not off because there was no term that there couldn’t be a foul involved.” He grinned cheekily as he slowly let go off her but just enough for her to stand upright again, hand on her waist again, pressing a kiss to her cheek. “Might tie you up tonight for a change.” He whispered in her ear, lips brushing briefly against it until he fully pulled away and gave her enough room to move anywhere she wanted to.

Serena: While she could not necessarily see him face she could feel his focus shift a little as he seemed to figure out what the most likely angle was for him to succeed – which he did partially though apparently the cue ball going down with the one he aimed for did not mean the same thing to the both of them since she was grinning at him triumphantly until she heard his words. "Wait, do the deal is so off – you did not...!" Well, he did pocket the ball and he technically was right though this also meant admitting defeat. "Should we ask them if they think this counts?" She asked jokingly while she looked around the room though they both knew she'd have no qualms about actually asking any of them for their opinion. He did make the idea of letting this one go and letting him win sound enticing with his next words, her grin saying as much as she walked over to get the cue ball back and place it on the table again for her to easily pocket to of her balls, only then leaning back against the table to face Nate again. "Want to grab us one more drink while I finish this game and let you tie me up to soften that blow to you ego when I win after all?" She asked just loud enough for him to hear, not shy but some things surely did not need to be heard by the entire place.

Nate: He was almost about to keep their little playful argument going but then he noticed the grin on her face paired with the question that later followed, both clearly giving away there wasn't really any need for him to convince her that the deal wasn't off. His gaze had been following her the entire time, not necessarily watching how she slowly but surely was winning the game but mostly because he was caught in a moment of realizing that this was actually happening - that he was here with her, on something that certainly could be considered a date. It didn’t really matter if it’d lead to something eventually, he was just grateful to share this with her, for it to possibly become another fond memory of time spent with her. "Mm-hm." He hummed and nodded but not actually making any kind of attempt to leave the pool table, instead he stepped toward her again, hands easily finding their way to her waist so he could pull her closer against him as his lips met hers in a rather hungry kiss. Honestly, he felt like he hadn’t taken enough advantage of the fact he could lock lips with her without having to think of any possible repercussions tonight… and it definitely didn’t hurt to show all those guys watching her that she was his - at least for tonight and especially if he was going to leave her at the table alone for a moment now. "I’m pretty sure we’re both winning tonight." Nate whispered against her lips, stealing another kiss before he reluctantly let go to get them those drinks she’d requested. A part of him obviously hoped that this would just be the beginning, one of many nights out to come in their future but he at the same time convinced himself to not worry about the future too much, to live in the present and enjoy every single moment he was granted with her.

[mintbunny29]

Fuck it, I’ll do one of these things but just this once because I just want to explain what’s going on in my corner of the internet I guess.

Last Song: “Sailing Seas" by Abandoned Pools

Currently watching: What We Do In the Shadows s5. I don’t post about it here on Tumblr but I do want to point out that my crack theory I made at the end of s4 that Guillermo will get bitten but he won’t get properly turned because his Van Helsing blood is fighting off vampirism like an immune system does with an illness is becoming more true with each episode. I could be wrong though, I’ve never been one for theories hahaha.

Currently reading: The Book of Lost Tales Part 2 (just started The Fall of Gondolin chapter). I’m making my way through HoME so I can finally read The Nature of Middle Earth, which I haven’t read yet. It’ll probably be a while till I can finish HoME and NoME because I work and have been spending my evenings with my current obsession below... (I’m also doing Dracula Daily, therefore reading Dracula for the first time. I love horror and I’m surprised I didn’t do it sooner)

Current Obsession: Football, soccer, whatever you want to call it. The Women’s World Cup is underway and with that comes everything that it entails. I’m guilty of not really keeping up with the women’s game as much as the men’s game but this year’s finals tournament have been soooo good! It also kind of sort of maybe got me to watch the anime Blue Lock which is definitely a show that exists. (I should also probably add Blue Lock to currently reading as I binged read the manga up to where the anime is currently, but the manga is also ongoing and I haven't read Episode Nagi yet so I'll mainly refer to the anime) I’m just kidding, I will say despite the ridiculousness of the premise and the cringy lines, I found myself really enjoying it! Ngl, as a former player myself, I kin a good 90% of the characters, it was a surreal experience. Also all of Sae’s dialogue was literally my inner evil monologue wow. That's the explanation I suppose for reblogging some random bachisagi and nagireo (I can’t decide whether I like them platonically or romantically lol). Anyway, Blue Lock is real, let’s go Nadeshiko Japan! Edit: Nooooooooo!!!! I jinxed it! :( Oh well, at least there will be a new winner which I always like.

open tag

7 People You’d Like to Know Better

Thank you @skyrim-forever ! I pass the torch to: @john-liberal @theauthor27 @dynamite124 @kynarreth @rock-pikmin-is-funny @serbiadisturbia @gemsweater72

Last song listened to: Be my Everything (English Version). It’s a solo song from one of the members of a K-pop group named Purple Kiss, and it’s fantastic! Great vocals, even though I do prefer the other song from the single more.

Currently Watching: Nashville (2013) and the new season of The Dragon Prince. I only have one episode of Nashville left and it’s the finale, so that’s pretty sad. I’m three episodes into season 5 of Dragon Prince and really liking it! I’m glad the animation has improved since the beginning.

Currently Reading: Nothing now. I just finished Dear Mothman by Robin Gow and loved it though! It is written for young teens, but it’s a really great queer narrative and is written through some very nice free verse poetry.

Current Obession: It’s mainly Skyrim (liked it so much I made a Tumblr blog for it, after all), but since I talk a lot about that, I’ll also mention Hollow Knight. I’m playing it right now and it’s very hard, but very good! I like how little handholding it does.

[blorbocedes]

I keep thinking about the winner’s room idea with Carlos taking Max’s virginity. There are so many layers to that interaction

Carlos was conflicted when he got the call to the winner’s room. Not because he was surprised, he expected this. He knows Max doesn’t trust easily, and that Max would want a friend to celebrate. He knows Max isn’t fully aware of what’s expected of him when he enters the winner’s room.

Carlos takes a moment to look at the teenager in front of him. Max is all rough edges. A scrawny, lanky teenager with no idea how important his choices were today. Carlos doesn’t have the privilege of being ignorant about what could have happened in this room if Max had chosen someone else. He’s seen how the older drivers stare at Max. That this is the first of many winner’s rooms for the kid. He’ll be on the receiving end soon enough. This is a room Max will see often, a room Carlos probably won’t. He knows that the other drivers would kill for the opportunity to wreck and ruin the teenager.

He’s not surprised when Max admits that he’s a virgin. Even less so when he confesses that he wants to be fucked. Carlos takes a moment to weigh his options. Part of him wants to wreck Max, destroy him from the inside out. To take out his anger of not being chosen for the seat.

He can’t bring himself to do that. He takes Max with as much care as he can muster up. To spare Max this moment, he knows it’ll be few and far between that Max will be treated with kindness in this room. He tries not to think of the bruises that will be left on Max’s hips as they try to put him in his place. Instead, he praises Max for his performance on the track. He tells him he’ll be a champion one day.

When he sees the tears in the corner of Max’s eyes he thinks Max might know what Carlos has just given him. The soft thank you as he lies in the afterglow.

Carlos knows he made the right decision when he sees Max exit the winner’s room a few weeks later. He watches on as Max tries to conceal the limp in his step. A grimace of pain slips out from under his mask of indifference. It’s only a few weeks between the two rooms and Carlos knows that Max has realised exactly what he gave to Max in that room. Max knows he’s indebted to Carlos.

Carlos isn’t surprised when he gets called back to the winner’s room the next year in Malaysia. This time he’s not so conflicted.

perfect delicious fucking food 🥰🥰🥰 thank you for feeding my versainz heart. you're right you're so right.

Carlos battling envy versus what he can do for his friend. Knowing Max is a generational talent, someone who got picked for the seat over him -- carlos knowing exactly what the winner's room entails; his dad was a WC after all. he sees max and knows max doesn't quite get how monumental this choice is, a historic win for a teenager, knows that max will not only be seeing this room more often than not but also the sharks on the grid who will want to break him first; psychological advantage in sports after all, all's fair. the kindness carlos offers him here........ the praise....... you will be world champion someday. SHIVERS. he can afford to be this kind because he's the first one to ever.

The limp a few weeks later, caused by someone not as kind -- with no regard beyond the power trip from winning and picking the youngest on the grid because You Can. and then the next year, max will remember this kindness. will call back where he felt safe, cared for, loved.

what did I do to deserve such loveliness in my inbox? absolutely nothing. i am so so so blessed. you are perfect. thank you. thank you

[tooruluv]

Katsuki Bakugou x F!Reader ( part 1 )

❝ ...and then there’s you. ❞

description: you and bakugou have hated each other since childhood. through the constant bickering, fighting, and actual fist fights... you had no idea that you had been writing to him.

genre: angst, soulmate au where you have a notebook that you can write to your soulmate in

word count: 3.8k

warnings/notes: strong language, lots of angst, aged up characters, bakugou being bakugou, reader has an air manipulation quirk created as part 1 of 3 for my winner of my tooruluv2kparty contest @katsulovee​ <33

teaser | part 2

| masterlist

“ ‘cause when the sun goes down, someone’s talking back ” - talking to the moon, bruno mars

┏━━━━━⋇⋆⋆⋇❦⋇⋆⋆⋇━━━━━┓

The storm only escalated, casting the sky in deep blues and greys. Loud rain clattered against the roof of your apartment building, the ceiling of your top floor apartment being the only thing that separated you from the pour. 

The rain may be cold, but you were on fire.

You had been livid all day, positively outraged by the man who seemed to always be in your way. He was the most arrogant, most opinionated, and most… loud-mouthed person you ever met. You were screaming from the inside out, burning with rage.

Groaning, you sprawled out on your bed.

Katsuki Bakugou was the biggest fucking issue on the planet. His absurd need to be the best at everything he did, his cold demeanor and venom that spews from his mouth -- you wanted nothing more than to punch him directly in the throat. 

With a deep breath, you flipped open your Soulmate Journal. 

The world was such a strange place, full of quirks and criminals and heroes and villains. To add on top of that, when you turn thirteen a journal just… appears. And whoever is your soulmate can read everything you write. Once they read it, they can reply or talk to you that way and the ink disappears. There are plenty of rules that go along with it, like if you turn thirteen before your soulmate does, the ink is red until they receive their own journal. Or how the journal itself is indestructible. Or the biggest rule: you cannot write any given name. 

When you’re thirteen, your life is full of hope and wishful thinking. Almost everyone at that age is excited to start writing to their Person, the one who they were supposed to be created to be with. You were surprised when you opened yours to find nothing written.

You assumed that you were a bit older than your soulmate, but that was quickly shut down as you wrote in black ink. Your soulmate hadn’t written anything. 

It took two months for him to write back. Two months of your excessive writing and nearly diary-like entries. Two months of you wondering if they would ever write back. Until he did.

Today sucked.

That was all you wrote, your past two months of writing still ever present and glaring at you with smudges and hinted annoyance. The ink started to fade like Harry talking to Tom Riddle, reappearing with new handwriting.

It was scrawled across the page with terrible handwriting, very much one of a middle school boy. 

Life sucks. Deal with it.

You were now twenty two, an adult and that once hope and love has turned into pessimism and indifference. And life still sucked. 

You were pretty famous, your air manipulation quirk one that catches a lot of attention. That, alongside your rivalry with the second most famous hero Bakugou, brought an abundance of recognition. Bakugou completely steals your thunder every chance he has, stealing your light and victories. 

You hated him. With the utmost disrespect, you hated him. Since your days in the hero academy, the two of you were at each other’s throats. He would even stop in the middle of antagonizing Deku to make some horrendous comment towards you instead. 

You ended up scribbling along the Soulmate Pages, heated rage boiling with each word.

Hey Honey! I need to vent if that’s okay.

Of course.

You would not believe the shit I have to endure in real life. I wish I could describe the hatred I have for this man I work with, he’s a real piece of shit. Anyway, how was your day?

My day was about the same as yours, living with the idiots of real life. If we could write names I would because there’s this bitch I work with that I fucking hate.

Maybe we need new jobs (insert laughing face even though I’m livid right now)

Yeah. Maybe. But we’ll get through it.

It took years for your soulmate to warm up to you. The first interactions were hesitant, slow, and barely considered conversations. But now you can discuss your day as if you were texting a friend, talk about your likes and dislikes. 

He was your soulmate after all.

You learned that he was a boy and an only kid, he had a strong quirk, and that he liked ramen. He was a rule follower and his handwriting always used proper punctuation. You told him all about your life and how you wanted to travel away from everything.

You wanted to know who he was, more than anything. 

You wished you could tell him your name and quirk, where you lived and who you were. You wished he could do the same. 

You’ve tried, of course, to write out your name and location. But the second the words were written onto the page, they turned into a random assortment of letters. Gibberish. Never to be written, never to be known.

“Dude, fucking relax!” You rubbed your temple at your desk, voice spitting venom against Bakugou’s loud vocals. “Not everything is about you, just sit down and wait to be sent on a mission.”

“What did you say to me?”

Katsuki Bakugou had been going on and on about how Deku got assigned to a mission in upper Japan, sent to work with a separate force for a bit to expand his horizon. He was outraged, yelling and standing tall and broad to pretend to be bigger than he was. 

You were doing paperwork, trying to concentrate despite his yelling and complaining and bitching. You were hovering above your seat with your legs crossed, papers scattered (it was a habit of yours, to just kind of hover a couple of inches off the surface of things; air manipulation and all that). 

“I said,” You turned to look into his ablaze eyes. “Sit down and wait. Not everything is about you.”

You only threw fuel into his fire, you could hear the sparking between his fingers. You turned back to your paperwork. 

“You don’t get to tell me what to do, you’re not even in the top five heroes.” Bakugou barked in your direction. You could feel his heat as he approached your desk. “You can sit and do your own paperwork all you want! I need to be put on serious cases, just like stupid Deku is always placed on.”

“You can argue with me all you want.” You moved to continue your work, pretending to be unbothered. You could feel the anger boil in your chest. “But you still are and will always be measly little number two. Now shut the fuck up, you’re interrupting those who are actually working.”

He was going to hit you, you knew he was. You two ended up fist fighting all the time, oxygen and explosions ending in destruction. Before he could, your boss walked in with a bellowing, “Bakugou! Get over here, I have something for your loud ass!”

You decided to give him a bored middle finger as he walked away.

They say that words are the way of life. You could say an infinite amount of words and sentences in your lifespan, you could say a word and only ever say it one time. Each assortment of words are different each time, something new every day. 

You figured that’s why you hated the soulmate thing. 

Finding your soulmate should be one of chance, of pure coincidence and meeting of strangers. With the journal, you are starting something you only hope to find. You could go your whole life without finding your soulmate.

And that is terrifying.

There are horror stories of writing to an endless notebook, sad movies created where the lettering turns back to red before they’ve found each other. You wanted nothing more than to meet and just… be with the man you’ve been writing to since you were thirteen.

It seemed to be some sick joke, a tease in the palm of your hands.

When you were young, you attended UA High. It was meant to be the best school for heroes, grooming them into the best of the best. Both of your parents had been heroes themselves, your mom with a cloud quirk and your dad with wings. You took after a bit of both, no wings and no clouds but could create air currents and manipulate the air surrounding you within a certain radius. It has something to do with your breath and lungs, but you never looked too much into the actual DNA aspect. 

When you arrived in the hero program, you passed the tests with ease. You tried to focus mainly on yourself and gaining your own points, alongside a couple of students with the same idea. 

You were pissed when you were placed in 1-B instead of 1-A. It was the start of your rivalry with the explosion boy. 

Luckily, you quickly gained friends. You actually seemed to have a soft spot for Hitoshi Shinsou, and you and Itsuka Kendou seemed to be the only two with brains (this led to many conversations resulting in shit talking and giggling). So in the end, you weren’t too upset to be placed in the second best class. 

And you did get to fight with Bakugou a lot more without punishment, your professor wanting to be number one as much as anyone else. 

One particular day that you remember to this day, one that really labeled your hatred for Bakuogu, was just a normal day at first. You were finished with your normal morning classes and just beginning the hero portion of the day, the training and fighting. 

Your class was working with Class 1-A for the day, teaming up with one of their students and seeing how your quirks would act both against and with each other.

You were, of course, teamed with Bakugou.

The fucker was already set in his ways, loud and in need of attention at all times. You were well aware of his… loud personality… at that point, being beside Shinsou when he called your class “extras”. He was already someone you wanted nothing to do with. 

“Good luck.” Kendou muttered to you when your names were announced as partners. “See ya.”

The second you headed to him, you could feel his apprehension. He wanted nothing to do with you. And you wanted nothing to do with him. In fact, you were hoping for Uraraka as your partner, wanting to see how your air manipulation would work with her gravity. 

Apparently the professors wanted to see the oxygen working with the burst of flames. Which, honestly, is cool yes — but it was the person behind the explosions that you did not want to be a part of.

Bakugou was not one to mumble under his breath. 

“Why am I paired with you?” He rolled his eyes, crossing his arms across his chest. “I could at least be with someone interesting like Mind Control over there.”

You already wanted to punch him. “You’ve obviously never seen my quirk.”

“Clearly it hasn’t been interesting enough to be worth my attention.”

“Say that again when I remove the oxygen straight from your lungs.” You threatened, knowing damn well you didn’t know how to do that yet. “Let’s just get this over with.”

He let out a long exhale, moving into position. You were already flying by the time he let off his first explosion.

His utter disrespect for you and your quirk not only irritated you, but only was the start of a long term competition on Who Can Be Better Than Who that lasted the rest of your time at UA.

Through the constant loud arguments, the yelling in the cafeteria and the comments just loud enough for the other to hear, the fist fights and the swearing that was reserved only for each other, you found comfort in talking to your soulmate. It was relaxing after a long day of pure annoyance and shit talking to finally just get to have normal conversations with someone you enjoy. 

Are we allowed to ask about school in this thing?

I don’t think so.

I’m sighing. Pretend that you could hear my sigh.

Wow, that was a loud sigh.

YOU’RE FUNNY! Anyway, I really want to know if we go to school together :(((

I don’t even think we can talk about JRTPD or BO::SOMD. See, they turn into gibberish.

 I mean… we can say school. So we can ask ABOUT school just not… specific schools. 

That’s true. I go to a special school and am the best in my class. You’re getting lucky by having me as a soulmate.

Well I would only hope so. Need a smart soulmate for fun facts.

Fun fact: you’re pretty cool. I guess.

Ah, the admission of your love for me.

Not love. I don’t hate talking to you if that does anything for you.

The one person you don’t hate. I’ll take it, Soulmate.

Don’t push it.

We should give each other nicknames. Since we can’t call each other by our real names.

Does the book allow it?

My parents did it before they found each other.

Okay. Like what?

I can call you Hot Head, because you’re hot and because you are always writing about how mad you are.

No.

I can always go with something cute like Honey.

This is gross. I was thinking like gamer tag nicknames.

Okay, Honey.

I take back what I said, asshole.

Honey and Asshole. The perfect pair. We could solve crimes!

I’m going to bed now.

Goodnight Honey ♡ I know that you aren’t reading these but you will in the morning. Dork.

“Do you know who your soulmate is?” You asked.

You were hanging out with Kendou, Monoma, and Shinsou in Kendou’s bedroom. The dorm rooms were all set up the exact same way, but for some reason Kendou’s always seemed to be bigger. 

“No idea.” Monoma shrugged. “I don’t think I want to know until I’m older, we’re too young and I want to focus on graduating first.”

“He’s right.” Kendou twisted in her position on her bed. “Why? Do you want to know who yours is?”

“I want to know more than anything.” You sighed. Your head was laid across Shinsou’s lap on the floor. “We get along so well and I try to talk to him every day.”

“How do you know it’s a he?”

“He told me.” You laughed. “We tried really hard to narrow it down as much as possible.”

“It sounds like he wants to know you too.” Kendou said. She giggled. “I should ask my soulmate their gender.”

“What about you, Shinsou?”

“I barely write to mine.” He shrugged, making your head tilt a little. “I’m sure they understand.”

“I’m sure they do, they were made to be yours.” You looked up at him with a smile. “Of everyone, I thought you would write the most.”

“And why’s that?”

“Because most people are scared to talk to you in real life.”

He flicked your forehead. “You aren’t scared to talk to me.”

“I’m not scared to talk to anyone.”

“I’ve noticed.”

You sighed and closed your Soulmate Journal, the rain now casting a dark shadow across the entirety of the sky. Your face was flushed in red, hair disheveled and you were still in your hero uniform, dirty and kind of burnt. 

Katsuki Bakugou had not only interrupted your victory, but he had claimed it as his own. His desperation to be the number one hero hadn’t stopped. It’s been years, you’ve grown past his stupid desire and he simply… hasn’t.

You fought the villain yourself, using your quirk to it’s full capabilities and trapping them in a circle of air. You fought for over an hour by yourself, taking up the mission while out and witnessing it first hand. Your freshly bought coffee was long forgotten as you raced after the thief.

The second you landed the thief, the ball of air dissipating as you grew tired, Bakugou arrived in a fiery feat and handcuffed the villain. Of course, the main photos were of him with the handcuffs, standing proud as if he hadn’t stolen your fight. 

His argument was that he did help. Yeah, he did ‒ for three seconds.

Katsuki Bakugou was a piss stain upon himself, truly the worst of the worst who’s own personal interest outweighs anything else in his life. He will never be anything but second best because he never thinks of anyone but himself. 

If only he could read thoughts instead of turning his sweat to ignition. Then you wouldn’t have to put your harsh thoughts into tone.

Your Soulmate was one of two people you genuinely enjoyed talking to, he always seemed to be on the same page as you. The other is Shinsou, from your high school. He was the only one you really kept in contact with.

Sometimes you like to convince yourself that Shinsou is your soulmate, since he hasn’t found his either. But you compared the handwriting and it didn’t match at all. Shinsou’s handwriting was much smaller and neater than the man you would eventually call yours.

“This is so fucking stupid!” You screamed, your rage reaching its max.

You threw your journal across your bedroom, the storm masking the sound of it banging against the wall by your bed. You were pissed, you wanted nothing more than to see Bakugou’s downfall. It’s been years. You were over it.

You were over it all. You were over him, you were over not knowing your soulmate, you were over being alone in your stupid apartment. It all reached it’s apex. Maybe you needed a shower, or maybe you needed to move from your job.

Your fit was interrupted by a loud crash on the roof of your apartment building. You nearly jumped at the sound, the sound not even close to the crashes of thunder. 

You rushed to the roof, your hero senses kicking in more than your regular carefulness. Once you were outside, you were almost instantly drenched in the rain. Only a couple of yards ahead of you was a man crumbled to the ground; they must’ve hit the roof harder than you thought.

When they turned, clutching their side, you knew instantly who it was.

“Deku?” You rushed towards him. “I thought you were in Hirosaki for some serious villain.”

He moved to stand, much taller and broad than he was back in high school. Yet still with the fluffy green hair and bright eyes with hope always seemingly sewed in. 

“I was. I just… I need your help.”

“Why do you need my help?” You helped him stand fully, taking his hand from his side to check for an injury. He wasn’t bleeding. “Doesn’t Uraraka live around here?”

“I don’t… want to involve her in this.” He stood straight. His healing must’ve started. “I… this is something I need you for.”

“Okay…” You crossed your arms. “What do you need?”

“I know what you’re going to say.” Deku started, and you didn’t move. “But it’s Bakugou.”

“No.”

“C’mon, Aero, I know that you two…”

“No.”

“Please, I…”

“Deku, you know more than anyone how and who he is. Whatever it is, he can deal with it himself.” You started back towards the stairs. “I appreciate you coming to me, for whatever reason, but this is something that you have to find someone else for.”

“Don’t think of this as us doing something for him.” Deku rushed to stand in front of you. “Think of it as a favor for me. You owe me one.”

“Don’t do this now.” 

“I’m officially cashing in my favor.”

You sighed, “Fine. Can you at least tell me what we need to do for the asshole?”

“I’ll tell you on the way.” He nearly jumped in joy. “But you cannot tell anyone. Not Shinsou, not the police, and not our boss. This is under the radar.”

“Oh, shit.” You followed him as you flew next to him. “What are you getting me into?”

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