#kit shines and sparkles all at the same time

[kit-inclothes]

kit connor on a carpet

goes bold

case in point: Loewe at Vogue World, London 2023

gif: @birthdaysentiment (X)

[tornado1992]

Sonic has always loved the golden color, that specific yellow was such a beautiful, lively color.

Red is his obvious answer to the “what is your favorite color?” question, but if they told him that he had to choose only one color he could see for the rest of his life, he knows golden yellow and baby blue would be the ones fighting for the throne.

How could they not? Those were his little bro’s colors.

Every time he looked at Tails it was like the sun had embraced the sky into a tiny fluffy ball, making both of them brighter and brighter, shining against each other, the softest shade of sky blue being evolved into a heart warming sun.

Tails was the infinite answer to the happiness question. His unstoppable potential to achieve anything he wanted, the endless possibilities of a wide happy future for him, the one who always accompanied him in his worldwide runs, just like the sky.

His brother was a soft light that warmed his heart everyday, a bright path to follow when he fell to deep in the dark, a reason to keep fighting for.

Yeah, Tails felt like the sky. But he was Sonic’s sun. And if he had to fight all his life to make sure that those bright baby blue eyes keep shining and that golden yellow fur keeps glowing, then he’ll fight till the world itself ended.

His world was ending. Slowly.

It was so sudden, so uncanny, and so, so unfair. They were happy, they were running together, they were laughing and racing each other until Tails abruptly fell from the sky, Sonic almost too late to catch him. “Just a headache” he said while being cradled in Sonic’s arms. Headaches were not supposed to make you faint, but Tails was fine, so it had to be okay.

It stated slowly. Tails kept fainting for some time, they worried, they went to the hospital and all the doctors said it was nothing. He started to vomit every time he ate, they returned to the doctors and the same answer was given.

He couldn’t sleep, they no longer believed the doctors.

His tails went limp, he couldn’t fly anymore, and his bright yellow fur was fading its color, he took matters into his own hands and after lots of analysis and test they got an answer for his predicament.

Tails was sick.

His fur was no longer shining, his eyes were no longer sparkling. Bright golden being rebalanced by an ashy sad yellow, and baby blue being covered by an infinite gray shadow.

Leaving a dark cloudy sky with a sun no longer shining.

His body was getting thinner by the day, Sonic could always carry Tails easily, he was a big brother, it came in the job’s description, so if he had to help Tails stand and walk for some time it didn’t matter, he’ll be by his side until he recovered. Until he no longer had to apologize for not finishing Amy’s cooking, until they’d stop bringing him to Angel Island trying to get the Master Emerald to heal him.

It didn’t matter how long would it take, he’ll be with him until he shines brighter than the sun once again.

Why

That was his only question

Why him? Why did it have to be him? Why wasn’t there any existing cure yet? Why didn’t even Tails had an answer? Why couldn’t Sonic do anything about it?

Tails was eight years old, eight, he hadn’t reached double digits yet, his birthday still too many months away. It could’ve been anyone, anyone but him. He had so much yet to live, and he told Sonic he knew he was dying.

A non believer would pray to a god to save their child. A believer would fight their god to save their child.

Sonic has already killed so many gods, and he’s already prayed to the ones that were left. So why wasn’t his sun shining again?

What deity did he annoy this time? What could’ve offend the universe so much that it has to take it on his baby brother? Why couldn’t it just burn the whole world down? Why couldn’t every enemy he’s ever faced come back and fight him? Why couldn’t reality just rip both his legs out instead? Why did it have to be Tails?

Sonic was willing to fight, bleed and die for that kit, so why couldn’t they just taken Sonic instead?

When his fur no longer showed any yellow brightnes and started getting covered by his own blood anytime he tried to speak they knew it was too late. When not even an over analysis on Shadows blood gave any hint of a cure, when not even Eggman’s biology knowledge and failed antidotes could even slow it down.

Not any deity, not the Master Emerald, not Sonic. No one could save him.

There was no solution. This was a threat he couldn’t outrun with Tails in his arms. An unforgiving curse slowly taking away his pride and joy to never give it back. A mocking laughing unknown force killing the only thing he would chose over anything else, his sun and sky, his kid.

Amy showered his forehead with kisses every time she came over, reading him bedtime stories to try and help him sleep, spoon feeding him his favorite ice cream when he was too weak to do it himself and too embarrassed to ask his brother. Knuckles stayed near their home, ready to assist in case there was an emergency, always bringing handmade wood toys so the kit could still play with something even if his arms were weak enough not to hold a small wrench, it wasn’t tinkering, but it made him a little bit happier.

They both told Tails how much they loved him every single time they were with him.

And Sonic couldn’t.

He hadn’t tell him that he loved him, not enough times before all this, never enough.

He couldn’t tell him he loved him now, not with words. He couldn’t voice that well known fact. Because his little bro already knew. Because it was something that was supposed to be shown with actions, not words. Because it went unsaid.

Because telling him he loves him now would mean accepting he’ll be gone. Accepting he lost, accepting he will lose him.

Sonic refused to lose him.

He needed to run, he needed to go away, because if he stayed, he didn’t think he’ll be strong enough not to crumble if they take his light away, when they take his light away.

He didn’t run, because that’s his brother, because even if his own heart is threatening to stop every time he looks at the cub’s small trembling frame, his heart wasn’t the one stoping in real time. So he stayed.

He stayed when Vanilla came over to check on Tails, to gift him a knitted beanie and matching gloves so he wouldn’t be cold in his own bed, the bed he hadn’t left in weeks. He stayed when he couldn’t properly take a bath by himself, helping him cleaning and brushing his fur while memories of baby fox fangs and campfires invaded his mind. He stayed when Tails couldn’t do anything but cry at the aching in his bones, and Sonic couldn’t do anything but hold him close.

His heartbeat was slower than usual, and that was already too slow.

And he was so, so cold. He wasn’t supposed to be cold, no, his golden fluffy fur was supposed to keep him warm.

The memory of his little squeaky voice was still engraved in Sonic’s mind, even if it had been months without properly hearing, and yet…

“I’m sorry”

“What’s that buddy?”

“I’m sorry, for making you wait for me to go”

No.

Why was his eight year old brother apologizing? Why did his kid feel the need to apologize for not dying? No. He knew exactly way, the reason were his feet’s constant tapping on the ground whenever he had a medic visit. The reason was how his own smile fell whenever the kid wasn’t looking at him. The reason… was because the kid just wanted to go, and Sonic wouldn’t let him. Sonic wanted him to get better, Sonic wanted him to stay with him. Not to let him go.

How could he? When he hasn’t had him for enough time? When he still had so much to live? When he still needed to apologize for not giving him the life he deserved? When he still needed to tell him that he loved him without feeling he’ll lose him forever?

Ten seconds of silence. Two voices in unison. The same feeling behind them, different words.

“Forgive me”

“I love you”

[b1xi]

───𝘊𝘜𝘗𝘐𝘋───ハイキュー!!

Haikyuu(ハイキュー!!)x fem!reader

Word count: 4919

𝙈𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩

Hinata’s eyes sparkled as he looked around the residence where the team would be staying before the match. “Oh, is this where we’ll be staying?” he asked, his voice brimming with excitement as he inspected every corner of the place. “It’s my first training camp! This is going to be so much fun.”

Off to the side, Tsukishima crossed his arms and sighed, looking at Hinata with a mix of exasperation and disdain. “Oh, great. A whole day surrounded by this bunch of airheads… what’s so fun about that?” You couldn’t help but roll your eyes at his usual sarcastic attitude.

“Tsukishima, you idiot!” Tanaka exclaimed, stepping forward.

Nishinoya backed him up with equal energy. “Kiyoko’s less than 500 meters away! How can you be so insensitive?” His expression was pure drama, as if the distance from Kiyoko physically pained him.

You shook your head with a smile, already used to the boys’ antics. Without wasting any more time, you headed to the room assigned to you. Sliding the door open, you were surprised by the spacious interior; it seemed ready to accommodate several people. While you would have enjoyed sharing it with someone like Kiyoko, you knew the young manager would head home since she lived nearby.

With a sigh of relief, you dropped your bag on the floor and started checking if you had everything you needed for the night. Pajamas? Check. Toothbrush and personal care kit? Check. Clean clothes and skincare products? Check. Satisfied that you had packed all the essentials for a peaceful night, you prepared for what would be a solo sleepover.

You got up, ready for dinner. Spotting Hinata and Kageyama sitting together, you decided to join them, though you quickly realized it wasn’t the best choice: both were devouring their food as if it were their first and last meal. Between smiles and incredulous glances, you carefully guarded your plate, mindful of your teammates' voracious appetites.

Even though you had been in Japan for years, you were still selective about some local dishes. Still, you ventured to take a generous spoonful of curry, offering a polite “Itadakimasu” before starting.

It wasn’t long before Hinata, with a hopeful look, pointed at the pieces of kakuni on your plate. “Y/N, are you going to eat that?” he asked, his eyes shining with a mix of enthusiasm and longing.

Smiling, you slid your plate toward him. “No, Shoyo-kun, go ahead.”

“Thanks, Y/N! You’re the best,” he said enthusiastically, savoring the kakuni you had shared.

Midway through the meal, Nishinoya leaned closer to both of you, a spark of curiosity in his eyes. “Hey, I’ve always wondered something, and if I don’t ask now, I think I’ll lose my mind.” He paused dramatically, capturing everyone’s attention. “Are you two dating or something? I mean, you’re always together... like, all the time.”

Both you and Hinata froze for a moment, exchanging a surprised glance before responding in unison: “Not at all!”

Shoyo laughed, throwing an arm around your shoulders playfully. “We’re best friends,” he explained with a carefree grin. “To me, Y/N is like a sister.”

“And to me, Shoyo is like a little brother,” you added, returning his smile. The familiarity and camaraderie in your words made the boys around you laugh, settling the matter.

“Little brother? Why little? We’re the same age!” Hinata protested, frowning comically while the others struggled to hide their smiles.

“Because I’m taller than you, obviously,” you replied with a triumphant grin, crossing your arms to emphasize your point.

Hinata looked at you with a defiant expression, stretching as much as he could in his seat. "Only by a couple of centimeters," he muttered, though his voice betrayed a hint of frustration, which made the boys laugh even harder.

"A couple? I’d say it’s more than that," you replied with an amused smile, raising your hand to emphasize the difference. "Come on, why don’t you try saying ‘big sister’?”

“I’m not saying that,” Hinata protested, frowning and looking away, crossing his arms in a show of stubbornness.

After dinner and a refreshing shower, you slipped into your comfy green Pochacco pajamas and started your nightly skincare routine, following the tips your mom had given you. Sitting on the floor, you opened one of the face masks you had brought, opting for the strawberry one this time. Taking out the small spatula that came with the package, you began carefully applying it to your face.

You hadn’t gotten far when the door burst open. “Excuse me!” Hinata exclaimed as he walked in like it was his own room, closely followed by Nishinoya. Without a second thought, they settled down next to you.

“What are you doing?” Hinata asked, his curiosity evident.

“Just relaxing a bit,” you replied, holding a small mirror as you applied the mask to your face. Then, with an amused smile, you offered, “Want to try?”

“Why not?” the redhead agreed, amused, as he pushed his messy bangs back with a couple of hair clips.

“I want to try too!” Nishinoya chimed in enthusiastically. Before you knew it, what had started as a solo routine turned into an impromptu group spa session. Tanaka and Asahi joined in on the fun, intrigued by the idea of trying the masks. Now, holding the lemon mask in your hand, you were carefully applying it to Asahi’s face as he shared, with a touch of guilt, how he had accidentally scared a first-year student earlier that day and how bad he felt about it.

Meanwhile, Hinata, Tanaka, and Nishinoya had moved to the other side of the room, apparently focused on your PSP, trying to beat the level you had left unfinished. You could hear their murmurs and exclamations every time one of them made a mistake in the game.

Tsukishima and Yamaguchi were walking down the hall after their showers. Tsukishima, with his usual air of indifference, wiped the steam off his glasses, adjusting them slightly in an attempt to restore a clear view. When they passed by your room and saw the door slightly ajar, with murmurs and laughter spilling into the hallway, both stopped, intrigued.

“What the hell…?” Tsukishima whispered, glancing inside with a mix of surprise and exasperation at the scene unfolding. From the doorway, they could see Hinata, Tanaka, and Nishinoya engrossed in your PSP in one corner, while you sat on the floor, carefully applying a lemon mask to Asahi’s face, who looked more relaxed than either of them had ever seen him.

Noticing their presence, you gestured for them to come in. “Tsukishima, Yamaguchi! Want to try?” you asked with an amused smile as you finished applying the mask on Asahi.

Before Tsukishima could respond with his usual sarcasm, Yamaguchi had already stepped forward. “Sure,” he replied enthusiastically, moving to where you were. With complete confidence, he settled on the floor and rested his head on your lap, relaxed and ready to be pampered. He chose the strawberry mask, and you began applying it to his face with gentle movements, enjoying the calm of the moment.

Tsukishima let out a barely audible murmur. “Traitor…” he said under his breath, though his words lacked their usual bite. Without much else, he moved closer and sat beside you, crossing his arms and giving you a look of patient resignation, as if waiting for you to finish.

“This is so relaxing,” Yamaguchi commented, enjoying the soft strawberry scent of the mask on his face. When you finished, he sat up and joined the others, who were still struggling to beat the video game level, fully immersed in the challenge.

With an amused smile, you turned to Tsukishima, showing him the remaining mask options. “Alright, which one do you want?” you asked, holding up the two for him to see.

He simply shrugged. Without much hesitation, you picked the lemon one. “Then it’ll be this one,” you said decisively, opening the container.

Without a word, Tsukishima shifted slightly and rested his head on your lap. “Make it quick. This is ridiculous,” he muttered with his typical indifference. But deep down, you knew that if he were really uncomfortable, he wouldn’t have agreed so easily. As you began applying the mask, you felt his hair, still damp from the shower, slightly soaking your clothes.

When your hands brushed his face to remove his glasses, Tsukishima tensed for just a moment—almost imperceptibly. To anyone else, his posture would still seem indifferent, but in that moment, he was grappling with thoughts he would never allow to surface. Ever since the day he met you, something about you had unsettled him in a way he couldn’t quite decipher. He remembered that second encounter—when you accidentally hit him in the face with a ball—and how it made him see you differently. And when you approached to check if he was okay, cheeks flushed and voice filled with apologies, he had been intrigued. He couldn’t explain what caught his attention; maybe it was your unusual accent when you spoke Japanese or the spontaneous expressions in your native language that you let slip into conversations. There was something genuine and refreshing about it.

But perhaps what surprised him most was how wholeheartedly you threw yourself into supporting them. Despite their chaotic practices, mistakes, and failures, there you were, cheering them on with fervor. Shouting words of encouragement that sometimes seemed almost ridiculous but somehow managed to energize and uplift them. And, though he’d never admit it out loud, there was something charming about your jokes—those corny ones you told when you sat next to him, not caring if they weren’t funny, simply enjoying the moment.

There was also the way your intelligence caught him off guard, like when you helped Hinata with his homework during breaks. He couldn’t deny that he saw you differently, in a way that clashed with his usual attitude.

It was the little things, the unconscious details that made you stand out. The way you furrowed your brow when something didn’t sit right with you or when you didn’t understand something—a look that became even more evident when you reviewed sheet music in the gym during breaks. Often, he watched you from afar, observing in silence. Your presence seemed to have its own rhythm; you always smelled nice, dressed gracefully, and to him, you looked more than good. However, whenever he started thinking about all of this, his mind would quickly rein itself in, reminding him that he shouldn’t think of you that way—especially in a moment like this.

Suddenly, the snap of fingers in front of his face pulled him out of his trance. “Earth to Tsukki,” he heard your voice, clear and amused. He opened his eyes and saw you raising an eyebrow, his glasses perched on your face, making you look funny. His gaze met yours, and for a brief instant, he couldn’t help but smile—if only on the inside.

"Man, you’re really blind," you said playfully, noticing how strong the lenses were.

Tsukishima looked at you with a mix of frustration and resignation, quickly extending his hand to try to grab his glasses back. "Give me that," he said seriously, but you, quick as ever, moved away before he could reach them. He was lucky the mask covered the slight blush on his cheeks, which didn’t escape your notice.

"'Give me that,'" you mimicked, copying his tone and posture, which only made him huff in annoyance.

"I don’t sound like that," he complained, still trying to retrieve his glasses, but you moved deftly to keep them out of his reach, enjoying the slight discomfort you seemed to cause him. Tsukishima’s nearsightedness didn’t help him much in this situation, and when he tried to distract you by smearing a bit of the mask onto the bridge of your nose, you paused to clean it off. He took advantage of the moment, grabbing his glasses back with a small victorious smirk.

"How annoying," you muttered, rubbing your nose to remove the excess cream, only to hear a triumphant cheer from the other side of the room.

"We did it!" Hinata and Yamaguchi shouted in unison, celebrating as they finally cleared the level you’d been stuck on. Their excitement filled the room, and Tsukishima, clearly irritated by the noise, let out an exasperated sigh.

"So loud," he commented, his tone as sharp as always.

Suddenly, the door burst open, and Daichi appeared, looking surprised and slightly annoyed. "Hey, it’s late! What are you all still doing up?" he said firmly. Taking in the scene before him, he frowned in disbelief. "What… what is this? Go wash that stuff off your faces and get to bed. Now."

With a collective sigh, everyone began getting up and reluctantly leaving the room, some grumbling about the captain’s order while others simply muttered their goodnights, resigned to Daichi’s reprimand.

You grumbled softly under your breath as you walked at a slow pace, trailing far behind the group of boys. "Damn… This is what I get for showing up early," you muttered, casting a frustrated glance at the figures running ahead. Ukai’s training sessions were notorious for being grueling, but you’d never thought you’d find yourself caught up in one.

"Come with us, you never exercise, not even in PE," the redhead had said with that boundless energy of his that sometimes got on your nerves. Stupid carrot head, you thought with a mix of irritation and resignation.

Unlike the rest, who were already running at a steady pace, you chose not to rush. Instead of trying to keep up, you preferred to stroll leisurely, enjoying the cool morning air and the quiet streets stretching out before you.

"Hinata, don’t yell for no reason; you’re just going to tire yourself out faster," Daichi warned, his tone firm but patient. Hinata, however, ignored the advice, picking up his pace to try and overtake Kageyama.

"Hey, where are you going?" Daichi exclaimed again as the redhead suddenly veered off course with all his impulsiveness.

You sighed at the commotion, finally catching up to the group, who had stopped by the side of the road for a break. Despite the curious glances sent your way, you didn’t stop. You simply kept walking with the same calm as before, unwavering in your stride.

"Wait, where are you going now?" Daichi asked, raising an eyebrow at your indifference to the team’s pause.

"To find him," you replied without slowing down, adjusting your high ponytail and brushing away the strands of hair that had begun sticking to the back of your neck from the heat. "Let’s just get this over with. It’s too hot to drag this out any longer."

You continued walking, your pace steady and determined. As you turned a corner, your gaze landed on Shoyo, who seemed engrossed in an animated conversation with another boy.

"Shoyo!" you called firmly as you approached. He quickly turned at the sound of your voice, an innocent smile lighting up his face. However, your attention soon shifted to the young man standing beside him.

He was dressed in a red tracksuit, probably his school uniform, and though his posture was relaxed, there was something in his gaze that unsettled you. His sharp, feline eyes rested on you for a moment, calmly analyzing before returning to the phone in his hands. He was reserved, that much was clear, but there was something intriguing about his demeanor. For a moment, he reminded you of Nayuta, though with a more masculine version of her serene expression—except for the blonde hair that set him apart.

"Oh, there you are!" Shoyo exclaimed, interrupting your thoughts with his usual energy, bouncing toward you like he was celebrating a victory. "This is Kozume Kenma; he’s a second-year in high school and, well… he’s lost," he explained, casually pointing at the blonde boy.

"I-I’m Y/N Y/LN," you introduced yourself, bowing slightly with more nervousness than you would’ve liked to show. Why are you stuttering? For god’s sake, he’s just a cute guy, you scolded yourself internally, feeling a slight warmth on your cheeks.

Kenma barely nodded in response, murmuring something that sounded vaguely like "nice to meet you" without looking up from his phone. His lack of interaction didn’t bother you; instead, it piqued your curiosity about his quiet and reserved personality.

"Did you know Kenma plays volleyball too?" Hinata chimed in enthusiastically. Hearing that, your eyes drifted to the athletic shoes poking out of the bag next to the blonde boy. They were of good quality, evidently worn but well cared for.

"He’s a setter, but not like ours," Shoyo continued, referring to Kageyama.

"Thank God," you muttered under your breath, just loud enough to pass as a casual remark. The thought of dealing with another Kageyama sounded exhausting.

Kenma glanced up for just a second. "What about you? What position do you play?" he asked, raising his voice just enough for you to hear him clearly.

"She’s our coach’s assistant," Hinata answered before you could even open your mouth. You shot him a sidelong glance, mildly annoyed, but decided not to correct him.

While Hinata continued chatting with Kenma, you stayed silent, merely observing. You noted how effortlessly Shoyo filled any empty space with his contagious energy. Before the redhead could ask the boy about his school, a deep voice rang out from down the street, cutting through the moment.

"Kenma!" called a tall guy with black hair styled in an unusually striking way. His presence dominated the space, his tone a blend of authority and familiarity.

"Kuro," Kenma responded with his characteristic calm. Without hurry, he stood and walked toward his companion.

"Bye," Kenma murmured as he left. You felt a pang of disappointment watching him go so quickly. "See you, Shoyo, Y/N," he added, his tone slightly warmer.

Your eyes met his in that final moment. And just when you thought there wouldn’t be any further interaction, Kenma did something unexpected: he threw you a quick wink, so subtle you might have missed it if you hadn’t kept eye contact. A sudden warmth rose to your cheeks, and before you could process it, he was already walking away with Kuro, as if nothing had happened.

The air, which had felt cool and relaxing earlier, now seemed uncomfortably warm. “Someone hold me…” you muttered under your breath, stunned by what had just occurred. The sense of discomfort and confusion was almost tangible.

“Y/N, are you okay?” Hinata asked, noticing your bewildered state. His eyes sparkled with concern as he observed you curiously. “You’re red. It’s because of the sun, isn’t it?”

Hinata, in his typical fashion, placed a hand on your forehead to shield you from the direct sunlight, trying to protect you with his innocent gesture. However, something in his expression shifted when his gaze followed the direction Kenma and Kuro had taken. His eyes widened in surprise, and for a moment, it seemed like something had just “clicked” in his mind.

“No… no, no, no way…” he mumbled to himself, as if trying to process an impossible thought. Then, he looked at you, bewildered, noticing you were still silent and your face was still flushed.

“No… it can’t be!” Hinata repeated, his face a mix of confusion and barely hidden curiosity. “Come on, you just met him, and you already… you?” he tried to continue, but you cut him off, placing a hand over his mouth to silence him before he could say more.

“Stop talking,” you said firmly, trying to regain your composure. Straightening up, you stared at Hinata. “Not a word about this, okay?” The seriousness in your tone made it clear this wasn’t the time for jokes.

Hinata looked at you with an amused expression, and you knew you couldn’t trust him to keep this secret. His face was far too mischievous, as if the whole thing was just a game to him.

“Understood?” you insisted, pressing your hand more firmly against his face, hoping he’d finally get the message.

Instead of answering directly, Hinata did something completely unexpected—he licked your palm, as if he couldn’t care less about what you were asking. The gesture left you utterly stunned and, if you were honest, a little grossed out.

“Ugh, that’s disgusting!” you scolded, pulling your hand away quickly and shaking it with a look of disdain.

The familiar voice of Sugawara interrupted you both at that moment. “Hey, guys!” he called out, making you and Hinata turn toward him. “We’ve been looking for you.”

“Sorry,” Hinata apologized with a sheepish smile, not seeming too bothered. “I ran off and got lost.”

“It’s fine,” Sugawara replied, brushing off the incident. “Come on, we need to head back.” With that, the group began walking back to the gym, their conversation resuming its usual flow.

It wasn’t long before Hinata sidled up to you, murmuring a question. “Are you going to tell me what that was about?” But before you could respond, he darted away when he caught the murderous glare you shot at him—a clear warning that you didn’t want to talk about it.

“Girls are so weird,” Hinata muttered under his breath, seemingly to himself, glancing at you with a mix of curiosity and mild fear.

Finally, the long-awaited day of the match against Nekoma had arrived. Both teams were lined up in front of the entrance to the gym, ready to enter the venue where the match would take place. The rows were neat, with Karasuno players on one side and Nekoma players on the other.

Your gaze swept across the opposing lineup, and that’s when you saw him: Kenma, the reserved guy you had met not long ago, now dressed in the red and black uniform of Nekoma. To your surprise, he was playing as the setter for the opposing team. Wow, so he's their setter. Cool, I’ll get to see him play, you thought, feeling an odd excitement at the prospect of watching him in action.

"Kenma!" Hinata called before he could enter the gym, excitement clear in his voice. "You're on Nekoma?" he asked, not bothering to hide his surprise.

"Ah, yeah," Kenma replied with his usual calm.

"Why didn’t you tell me?" Hinata puffed his cheeks, clearly annoyed that he hadn’t known this detail earlier.

"Because you didn’t ask..." Kenma looked away, his answer as simple as ever, though no less effective.

Hinata furrowed his brows, as if trying to process his teammate's logic. "But you said we’d see each other! How could you not tell me something like that?" he insisted, still confused.

Kenma glanced at him out of the corner of his eye, a slight glint of amusement in his gaze. "Your shirt said 'Karasuno High.' It was pretty obvious," he concluded indifferently, leaving Hinata without a comeback.

Before the conversation could continue, a tall and intimidating-looking guy appeared behind Kenma, drawing the attention of both you and Hinata. His expression was serious, and his posture radiated a kind of passive threat.

"Hey," he said in a deep voice, addressing you and Hinata directly. "What do you want with our setter?" His tone aimed to be intimidating, but to you, it was nothing more than a half-hearted attempt.

Hinata, almost instinctively, took a step back and hid behind you, leaving you to handle the situation.

"It’s none of your business," you replied calmly, crossing your arms while maintaining eye contact with the guy. Your voice, though relaxed, carried an edge of challenge. "And who are you?" you added, raising an eyebrow, making it clear that his attitude didn’t impress you.

Before the other guy could respond, Tanaka's voice rang out behind you, full of energy and attitude. "And what do you want from our first-years?" he spat, stepping forward to position himself in front of you with a challenging stance. You glanced at him, feeling a twinge of exasperation. This is ridiculous, you thought, crossing your arms while trying to maintain composure.

As Tanaka and the tall guy began an exchange of words that seemed to escalate quickly, something else caught your attention. A soft "hello" was heard next to you, immediately capturing your interest. When you turned, you found Kenma, who was staring with unusual concentration at the screen of your PSP. On the device, the startup menu of God of War: Ghost of Sparta glowed with its characteristic dark and rustic tones.

Kenma kept his gaze fixed on the screen as you held the console in your hands, his interest clear despite his serene expression. "Do you like it?" he asked in his calm tone, which somehow made your heart beat a little faster.

"Yeah, although... I’m still on level 5," you confessed, lowering your voice slightly as if admitting it were some kind of weakness. "It’s harder than I expected."

Kenma nodded, moving a little closer to get a better look at the screen, his golden eyes analyzing every detail. "Yeah, God of War can be tough if you’re not used to the combos. This one, in particular, has some interesting mechanics, but also a couple of frustrating enemies. Have you faced the Giant Scorpion yet?"

Your face lit up with a mix of excitement and nervousness. "No! I haven’t gotten that far yet, but I’ve heard it’s pretty tough. I’m trying to improve my combos... but I always end up pressing buttons randomly when I get nervous," you admitted, letting out a small nervous laugh as you brushed a lock of hair from your face.

Kenma made a small gesture that seemed like an attempt at a smile. "That happens at first. But if you focus on blocking and dodging at the right moment, the fights get easier. Have you tried using the Spartan Rage? It’s good for clearing out hordes."

You shook your head, embarrassed. "No... I think I forgot how to activate it. The tutorial went too fast, and I didn’t want to go back and check."

Kenma looked at you, surprisingly patient. "It’s L1 and R1 at the same time. Try it next time you’re surrounded by enemies." Then, his eyes returned to the screen, but his closeness made you increasingly aware of every little movement.

"Ah... thanks," you managed to say, feeling ridiculously nervous by his attention. It’s just a guy, calm down, you repeated to yourself, even though your hands started to sweat slightly as you held the console.

"If you want, I can help you with that level," Kenma offered, completely casually, as if it were no big deal. But for you, that simple suggestion made your mind go blank for a moment. Help you? Play together?

"R-really?" you stammered, heat rising to your cheeks. "I mean... if it’s not a bother."

Both of you were so absorbed in your conversation that you didn’t notice the four Karasuno guys watching from a few steps behind. Kageyama had approached Hinata, who seemed to be following the interaction with a mix of surprise and amusement.

"What’s going on?" asked the black-haired boy, frowning.

Hinata, with his usual enthusiasm, leaned toward him and whispered something in his ear. Kageyama furrowed his brow even more, confused. "What about her?" he asked aloud, causing the other two—Yamaguchi and Tsukishima—to step closer.

"Shh, lower your voice," Hinata insisted, whispering. "Look!"

Following his indication, Kageyama turned his gaze toward you and Kenma, who were still absorbed in your conversation. He seemed to understand what Hinata was implying, although his reaction was more of a shrug.

The scene didn’t go unnoticed by Yamaguchi and Tsukishima, who had also approached out of curiosity. Hinata, always the first to spread rumors, whispered the same thing to both of them. Yamaguchi covered his mouth to hold back a nervous laugh, but Tsukishima didn’t react immediately. His gaze darkened as he watched the interaction between you and Kenma, the slight flush on your face, and the calm with which the Nekoma blond stayed by your side.

"Ridiculous," Tsukishima muttered, adjusting his glasses with a sharp motion before stepping forward toward you.

"Hey, Y/N," he said, his voice laced with false calm, "I think Coach Ukai is looking for you." He placed a hand on your shoulder, guiding you forward while looking at you with an almost challenging intensity. "He might need your help."

You couldn’t help but let a hint of doubt show in your eyes. It didn’t sound convincing, but still, the pressure of his hand on your shoulder pushed you to take a few steps forward. "Really?" you asked, your tone revealing more skepticism than certainty.

Tsukishima, however, didn’t seem to be shaken. "Yeah," he responded with a calculated softness, though his expression wasn’t entirely honest. "You know how he is. Better go before he gets in a bad mood."

With a resigned sigh, you finally decided to follow him, stealing one last glance at Kenma before he walked away without saying a word.

[glaciertea]

Masterlist here

Tales the Songs Weave

Bonus: Honeymoon

Notes: Something I wanted to do as my brain wouldn't leave me alone about it. A nice wedding as reader now becomes Mrs. O'Hara~

CW: Wedding day shenanigans and a slightly nervous reader and Miguel.

Bonus One: You Slow Down Time, in Your Golden Hour

Word count: 6.4K

You stared into the full-body mirror, nervousness, happiness, and other raging emotions swirling within. You never felt like this, but here you, trying not to sweat your pits as Ronnie turned you over to look at her.

“Careful, I don't want to stick you.” She muttered, sewing a small tear right on the side of your dress. 

“I'm sorry, Ronnie. I didn't mean to zone out on you.”

She waved her hand, digging through a sewing kit and getting right to work. “Nah, don't be. It's a big day for you. I don't blame you for being all up in the clouds and jittery.”

You reared your head back at the mirror and beamed harder. You couldn't believe this momentous event was happening; you simply couldn't.

You were getting married.

You were getting married to your star, your forever, your everything: Miguel O'Hara.

Twisting the engagement ring, you peered at the shining stone. Ronnie grinned, finishing up the last final touches on it. “And here we are.” 

Staring at yours and Ronnie's reflection, you both dawned the same sparkling smile, eyeing the dress in admiration. The dress was beautiful. The flowing skirt embroidered with tiny stars and daisies, the slight puffy sleeves, the V-neck showing just a bit of cleavage. 

It was wonderful, considering that it is an expensive dress as well. 

Ronnie was given this dress by some model who, in a pretentious manner, gave it away along with other clothing because ‘she didn't want to be caught dead with them.’

When Ronnie did research, the clothes were worth tens of thousands of dollars, having her to hoard them away from the public eye.

“But now, since this is technically a very special occasion, I want you to wear and have this.”

You recalled denying her over and over. You couldn't accept a very extravagant item, especially if it was one of her most prized possessions. Yet Ronnie's persistence refused to give in.

She badgered you and even got Miguel to jump on the bandwagon when he saw how it complimented your figure. Even taking notes on the little designs adorning it. 

You did give in by the third week, when Ronnie was standing in front of your apartment one morning holding the dress up to her chest. You were grateful for Miguel being up that early, or you would've tossed her out of your window. She threatened to sneak in and put the damn thing on in your sleep, and you didn't want to take her up on that offer.

Then you got an actual good look, and the rest was history.

“Doing okay?”

“Hm? Uh, yes. Think the jitters are getting to me.” You raised your arms when Ronnie instructed you to do so.

“You're not planning on trying to pull a runaway bride on us, are you now?” She inspected for any other tears or loose strings. “Because if you are, let me come. I don't want to be there when Miguel inevitably freaks out more than usual... Or maybe I'll have Peter record it.”

You couldn't say you were baffled by your friend's train of thoughts, but it still never managed to have you taken aback because of how thoughts chugs along up there.

“No, Ronnie. Besides, my body wouldn't even take two steps before I'm sprinting right back to the altar. I love that man too much, and cold feet aren't an option.”

“That man does seem to have a magnetic pull.” She pinned a part and placed her hands on her hips. “And there we go. You are all ready to go.”

“I'm getting married, holy shit, I'm getting married, Ronnie. What the fuck, what the fuck? Are they ready? Is he ready? Please tell me I have more time to get my shit in order.”

Your boss pulled out her phone before swatting your hand away from your hair, scolding you for trying to mess it up. “I worked on that.” She punched in several numbers, and you listened to the phone ring.

“Do you think he's nervous? Or is it just me? I think it's only me; it has to be me? Right, right?” You crossed your arms and tapped your foot rapidly. “What if he's calm and I'm the nervous one? It's only me!” You started to pace the room, fanning yourself to not get overly sweaty.

After the fourth ring, someone picked up, and Ronnie heard shuffling, then a frantic voice speaking in Spanish at a hundred words per second in the background.

“Calm- Miguel, calm down; it's—yes, I know... No, she won't have cold—go, go sit down! Just relax. Hi, Ronnie. Is she ready to go?” Peter's held a strain in his tone as Miguel continued panicking in the back. 

“About to ask you the same thing. Is he freaking out as much as she is?” Ronnie looked at your worn state, then back at her phone. 

“I'm trying to get him to calm down. He said he's scared if she gets cold feet or if he gets it. I told him he would turn and run straight back to the altar if he tried to do a runaway groom. And he agreed.”

Ronnie snickered and sighed out. “Sounds about right. But she's ready; they're both wrecks, so that means they're good to go.”

“I don't think that means they are ready, Ronnie.”

“They are. Find a way to get him in the car, and we will see you two in five.” She hung as Peter tried to sputter one more thing, but Ronnie wasn't having you and Miguel drag this day on.

“What did he say? He's not ready? Good, grand, I get to relax here for a bit longer.”

“Nope, he's ready. Let's go.” 

You and Ronnie had a showdown. You were wanting to do this, but there was something gnawing at your skin and bones. You couldn't figure out why you were so anxious. Leading up to this day was all fine and dandy. Everything was in order, and you both agreed on how the day would go with relative ease.

Like how you both originally wanted to do a Catholic ceremony, but you didn't necessarily have the right resources. With your mother and father watching the celebration by phone, due to your father's chronic fear of flying, you two didn't really want to go through all those steps. When Miguel explained the steps, your head was caught in a whirlwind, and even with your own research on how to minimize it, it made your head throb. So you settled on simple vows and allowed the officiant to do their thing. 

And the guest list was a breeze to make, even if you both knew the consequences. It made sense for Peter to be the best man and Ronnie to be your maid of honor. You didn't mind Peter's wife tagging along too; you both needed some balance between the two. Short and simple. The way you two wanted it.

Then the next thing you slightly dreaded: your mom and dad.

When you announced the news to your parents about the engagement, they immediately video called wanting to interrogate Miguel. You tried to prevent any form of physical call, only wanting to stick to messages, but Miguel eased you to the idea that talking to them would've been a better option. You did give in, but it was an immediate regret.

“Why are you so big? Do you do steroids?”

“What the hell, dad?”

“Don't talk to your father that way. Now, what's your income salary?”

“Mom!”

“What? I need to make sure he can provide.”

“Occupation?” Your dad stepped more into frame.

“I'm, uh, I'm retired, sir.”

“Doesn't answer my question.”

“Geneticist, sir.”

“Yeah, I don't like him. No scientist needs to be that built.”

“I just searched how much a geneticist could make, and he's retired at a young age? He's good-looking man, smart, and in shape? Good pick. I like him. When are you having children? Keep him because I want beautiful grandbabies!” 

You wanted to evaporate into the air.

“You like him for all the wrong reasons. What are your intentions with my daughter? Do you want kids? Where did you meet her? What are your political thoughts? How much has she told you about us? Why haven't you called us to tell us you've been seeing this man-?”

You hung up and slumped your body on the table.

“Now I see why you only message them instead of calling.”

You gave it a few more days for them to settle down, and it helped. It didn't take long for your mom to love him, to the point where she preferred to talk to him more than you. Your dad did eventually warm up to him, more so when he learned that Miguel was actively trying to seek out your brother to surprise you at the wedding. Your dad accidentally let it slip a couple days before the wedding, stating Miguel is now his new son and how Barkley was a coward for hiding away.

Miguel confessed that he was struggling to find him; even with his old fancy HQ gizmo, it was as if he never even existed. He did feel undoubtedly terrible, and you hugged him, thanking him a million times for going out of his way for a surprise that would've been amazing. 

To help bring the mood back up, you treated him to his favorite restaurant and then came back to the apartment and proceeded to ride him until you both were seeing stars.

Needless to say, you pushed everything to the back of your brain to solely focus on Miguel, the wedding, and nothing else. 

Everything was running smoothly, minus MJ not being able to show up due to catching a virus, so there wasn't going to be any middleman that you and Miguel craved. And Ronnie wasn't helping by forcibly dragging you out to the car. The glimpses of passersby didn't help as Ronnie gave them all a thumbs-up that this wasn't a kidnapping, and you were safe before gently shoved you in the passenger side. Your leg bounced the vehicle, wishing that the botanical garden was halfway across Nueva York.

“You're going to tilt the car if you keep moving your leg like that.” She slid in and started up the engine and pulled off the curb.

“I'm sorry, Ronnie. I don't know why I'm feeling this way.”

“Marriage is a big thing. Committing your life to someone who is willing to go through the ups and downs with you and vice versa. Well, unless you're my cousin.”

Your face bunched up at that. “Why do you say that?”

“She's been married about seven times in the span of five years. She was more worried about the weddings than the actual guy she was getting with.” Ronnie said. “Always keeping up with her needs, barely inputting what the man may want. Every time you saw the groom, they always seemed so dead, tuned out, or going along with it to prevent her from blowing up over the simplest of issues. Kind of sad, so seeing someone excited to be with the person they truly love is refreshing.” 

Your lips curled upwards. It was joy that was amplifying all those emotions that were raging inside. The one that was outshining the rest. 

Ronnie parked and hopped out of the car and dashed to your side and opened it for you. She moved her head around like a vulture, scoping out for the others. Only a few cars preoccupied the other spaces, but she didn’t see the car Peter was taking. You stepped out with her help and pointed out that the officiant was here.

“Hey, we got fifty percent. I see that as an absolute success so far.” Ronnie took your hand, and you two made your way under the pergolas. “You know this would be a gorgeous shot.”

“I'll make sure to tell Peter. I hope he remembered to bring his camera.” When scouring for a photographer, you learned that Peter was one, and he recommended himself to do all the pictures and photo edits.

You accepted his offer but didn't know how the payment was going to work with him being from another dimension. You questioned if it was like another country where you could exchange your currency for theirs. Or if future money would affect the past. They assured you that it should be okay, and if it doesn't, you and Miguel would pay in babysitting Mayday.

“Where the heck are Peter and Miguel? I swear if he did do a ‘runaway groom,’ I'm going back for my bat!” 

You had to pause and grab her by the shoulders to not freak yourself out. “Ronnie,” you began through a tightened jaw and forced smile. “Let's go in and meet the officiant. Remember, if one of us shows up first, we can quickly make sure things are in order. Two, Ronnie. Please. Don't.”

The woman was a bit shaken by your calm yet frightening demeanor. She nodded her head, taking the time to realize stressing you out wasn't the best idea. You continued on as she watched you pull your phone out and dial for your parents. You were immediately met with bombarding questions and what took you so long to call. Your eye spasms, and you were forced to give them a stern talking and practically told them to behave themselves, or you will have Ronnie keep them silent throughout the entire ceremony. 

 

You greeted the officiant, who was settled on one of the splattered painted benches. She thankfully gave an update that Miguel and Peter were on the way, leading you and Ronnie to the entryway to get checked in. There was an employee there if anything went awry or you simply needed help.

“I need to freshen up, please. Ronnie, stay here if they come. Can you show me where your restrooms are?” Your hands fidgeted with the puffs on your sleeves. The officiant decided to go with you in case you needed more assistance. 

Ronnie mingled with your parents, her and your mom squealing how you were marrying a “hunky hottie,” while your father didn't make a peep. Ronnie's phone vibrated in her back pocket. She grabbed it and cupped the screen. It was Peter. She excused herself from your mom and dad and muted them so they wouldn't start raising questions on why the groom isn't there yet. 

“Where the hell are you two?” Ronnie hissed. 

“We're in the parking lot. Had to help Miguel from sweating up his dress shirt too much.” There were two doors being shut. “Where is she? Is everyone here and ready?”

“Yes, now hurry up—you slow bastards!” Ronnie hung up and hurriedly called the officiant to make her way back. 

When she got there, your boss handed the phone to the officiant and made her way to where you and the employee were. 

“Can I talk to her alone, please?” You smiled at the employee.

“Of course.” They shuffled out of the restrooms and into the outside.

“Letting you know now, I'm not afraid to tackle you down if you try to run.” Ronnie checked behind to make sure the counter was dry and leaned on it.

“Did you manage to get a glimpse of him?” You peered at your reflection, giving yourself a final inspection, inside and out.

“Nope. I think I was making my way here when they came in.” She inched over and rested her hand on your shoulder. “You look lovely, by the way.”

The corner of your lips quivered up. “Thank you, Ronnie.”

“Of course.” She laced her arms around your torso, weary about not wrinkling your dress. “You know I have a sixth sense?” 

You huffed a laugh. “Do you now?”

“I sure do. And it's saying that life with him will be a path that's full of wonder and wander. Full of winding and unwinding roads. You know all that good crap.”

“I wouldn't say it like that.”

“And you're going to march down to that archway, talk about how much you mean to one another, and get married.”

“I was going to do that from the start; it was never going to change, Ronnie.” You scrunch your face. “Was this a motivational pep talk?”

“In a way. I was buying time so they could get into position.”

You sighed out, ready to touch your hair to relax, when Ronnie smacked your hand away from it once more. One more look at the mirror, and you dazed into your own eyes, then smiled. 

“Okay, I'm ready.” You linked arms with Ronnie and headed out to a welcoming sunbeam.

Miguel was steeled to the ground. His palms were sweaty, but he didn't want to wipe them. He eyed Peter, who gave him a thumbs-up, and then the officiant, who simply offered a smile. 

The flowers decorating the arch were the same from the first time he shared a kiss with you. He fiddled with the marigold pinned to his shirt and made sure it was not damaged. Checking in the direction you were supposed to come, his mind drifted to subconscious thoughts, praying that nothing was off or if his breath smelled (he made sure to brush and gargle three times).

Before he could go any deeper, you and Ronnie emerged in full view.

Miguel couldn't breathe. He stared as you made your way to the archway, the sun, and the flowers, always adding on to your already mesmerizing glow. Every step was elegant, and his heart pounded the closer you got to him. There was no one else in the world besides him and you. 

You didn't want to seize up, but Miguel in his suit and the floral around him brought you back to the first time you ever came here. The first time he was open with you, the first time you shared your kiss. The start to where you are now. 

Extending his hand, you happily took it and drifted as close to him as you possibly were able to. You saw Ronnie take back your phone and make her way over to her side with a skip in step. Taking his free hand, you rubbed the back of it to soothe you both. “You got this. Lo conseguimos.”

“Gracias, mi Luna.”

“You two ready?” the officiant asked.

You signaled for her to begin.

“We are gathered here today on this lovely day, surrounded by one of nature's many beauties of the earth, to celebrate the love and the bringing unity of Miguel and Y/n.”

Miguel felt his eye twitch and wiped at it before going to the other.

You tried to stop the tears from leaking, but they did anyway. Time was slowing down, the officiant's words getting lost and fading into the back. It was only him.

“Eres hermosa.” Miguel mouthed.

“Eres hermoso.” You mouthed back.

The shared fondness ran deep. You wanted to stroke his face, so you squeezed his hands tighter. Miguel didn't want to wear his sunglasses because he wanted you to see every emotion. You didn't want him to strain himself, but he was insistent. With that, you checked the weather almost every day for a partly cloudy day to wed on. 

You gazed up to a perfect blend of the sky blue and the white fluff lazily covering the sky from time to time. 

You zoned back in when the officiant began the declaration. 

“I would say take each other's hands, but you both already have that filled.” The officiant cheesed. “Now, do you promise to choose each other every day, to love each other in word and feed?”

“We do.” You and Miguel nod.

“Do you promise to recognize one another as equals and support one another in your goals and wishes for the future?”

“We do.”

“Do you promise to always share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns with the other and be open and honest at all times?”

“That means no ‘thinking’ you're okay or insisting. You have that habit.” Ronnie sputtered out before pressing her lips into a thin line when all eyes were on her. “Uh, sorry. Pretend I didn't say anything.”

You huffed out a strong gust of wind and shook your head at your friend. Miguel chuckled and stole a quick kiss on your temple. “I'm here for you.”

“I know, thank you.” You grinned, and you both proudly said, “We do.”

“Miguel, you may now share your vow.”

“Mi Luna, where do I begin?” He shook your hands. “When you came into my life, it was something I never was expecting; it was a path that I thought I couldn't cross, and yet you proved it otherwise. When you allowed me to open up and gave me that space to be myself, it was all so unfamiliar. But whenever the sun and moon drifted into the horizon and the skies, or were hidden by the weeping clouds, you were there with your compassion and understanding.

You made each day feel simplistic; each minute I am around you is an eternity of peace and love that I never want to end. Thank you. Thank you for giving me a chance to want to learn and grow; thank you for showing that there are people who want to be by my side,” he paused to acknowledge Peter, Ronnie, and the direction of the HQ. “That there have always been others who have been there.”

You brushed the corner of your eye, trying not to smear your makeup.

“Mi Luna, mi corazón, mi vida. Thank you for letting the marigolds and lavender pop up. Thank you for showing me these connections and values that lie beneath, waiting to grow. Te amo y nada cambiará eso jamás.”

The officiant gave you the say to recite your vow.

“You big, loveable oaf.” You laughed and sniffled. “That night we crossed paths; I wouldn't have known what was going to happen. I had days of questioning and wondering, asking myself, ‘Is all this real? Is this amazing man before me actually real?’ And yet, the more and more we got to know each other, the more I felt like I've known you for most of my life. I thought of the future with you. I want one with you. You bring in this tenderness and sentiments that always bring these connections whenever you're around. 

“The day you asked me to be your wife was a dream that fell from the light. I had to stop myself from pinching myself because if it were a dream, I wouldn't want to wake from it.”

The night he proposed is something that'll forever have a fond place in your memories.

He brought you to the park after cooking up some cinnamon waffles and playing one of the early albums you got for him. He insisted it was only for nostalgic purposes and that he only wanted to do it on the fly. You held your suspicion, and it didn't ease it when he took you out to the botanical garden and the restaurant you first ate at for dinner. You probed him with question after question until Miguel had you relax. Giving in, you leisurely went along and enjoyed the rest of the evening.

The last stop was the park. The moon was out, and a few stars were stagnant in the sky. You sat on a bench and snuggled up next to one another, loving each other's presence when Miguel made you close your eyes. He stopped you from interrogating and had you comply. You listened out for any sounds when Miguel's voice sounded far away. 

He sat across the other bench and stared right at you with those hypnotic eyes. You laughed and pointed to your own and uttered, “Crimson?”

He smiled and placed his hands in his pockets before making his way to you. He stood there for a few seconds, the orange from the streetlights and the ivory moon competing to be his spotlight. And that's when he got on one knee, and you immediately started to sob. You couldn't recall the speech (he had to retell it when you had to sedate your mind), but you remember saying ‘yes’ repeatedly.

“I love you, mi Estrella. I want to walk on that path with you. Even if it gives us twists and turns, I want to remain by your side through it all.” Your hands were getting wet, but neither of you cared. 

“You have shared your vows, the promises and love that will still flourish and blossom onwards. We witness and bless your vows for the lifetime of your marriage. May I have the rings?” The officiant turned to Peter, who handed them to her. “Thank you.”

She gave you and Miguel the rings and eyed the etched crescent moon on the inside. And on his was a star. The officiant gave the ring exchange speech to be repeated. You noticed his hand trembled when you looked up to see tears rolling down from his cheeks. Even if it was tiny, the smile was radiating, and you couldn't help but return your own beaming one, drops streaming down to your chin. 

“I, Miguel, give you, Y/n, this ring as a symbol of my love, my faith, in our strength together, and my covenant to learn and grow with you.” He placed the ring on your finger, fighting the urge to kiss your hand. 

The officiant looked at you and had you recite.

“I, Y/n, give you, Miguel, this ring as a symbol of my love, my faith, in our strength together, and my covenant to learn and grow with you.” You slipped it on and gave a quick peck to his ring finger. “I'm sorry. I, uh, I couldn't control myself.” You tittered.

“That's okay.” The officiant winked. “Before these witnesses, you both have sealed your pledge with these rings. By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife; you may now kiss the- oh.”

Miguel swept you off your feet into a kiss that he put his all into. The sun warmed your skin, and so did Miguel. Your hands grazed his cheekbones, his nose, whatever your thumbs could touch. 

You were officially married, and the butterflies fluttered inside.

Going to sign your name on the certificate, you caught Miguel staring keenly at the paper. 

“Mi Estrella? ¿Estás bien?”

“Yeah, I'm just... in disbelief I get to have someone as you as my wife. That I get to have this chance at a better life.”

“Of course you deserve it, Mi Estrella. And I will never stress that enough.” You scratch his back when Ronnie yells for you to come over.

“You have other people to blab to.” She hoisted the phone to your face, to your mother gleaming in the camera and your father having a fixed glare.

“We are so proud of you!” Your mom clapped before shoving the phone in your dad's face. “Stop looking like that! You'll add more damn ridiculous than what you need. Say something to our daughter.”

“I'm glad that you are my son. Visit. Soon.” You knew that was more of a demand than a request. 

Miguel draped his arm over your shoulders and pulled you in closer. “Thank you. And we will, we promise.”

“Come on, you lovebirds. Let's get some pictures!” Peter waved his camera around, and Ronnie clapped her hands.

Peter had you two posing around the garden. He was really good at it, having you both feel relaxed and natural surrounded by nature's landscape. The officiant even took group photos of you four, and Ronnie had taken many bad selfish or gorgeous off-guard ones; there was never an in-between with her. You were given the opportunity to freely roam the garden and reminisce about the beauty when you first came here.

You didn't think it was possible for your heart to swell more, but it was proven.

“I'm proud of you, you know?” Peter patted Miguel's back. “Still ways to go, but you'll get there. Especially with her on your side.” 

They glanced over at you and Ronnie chattering away with the officiant, and Miguel was in awe at you. You always managed to hold a presence that made others feel warm, even if you weren't trying. 

“Thank you, Peter. Thank you.”

The three flocked to Peter and Miguel, and you immediately shuffled over to Miguel's side and held his hand. 

“So, we're getting food, right?” Ronnie patted her stomach loudly. “Because I can go for something right about now.”

“We did book a small section for the Asian street food restaurant.” You chimed in. “Would you like to join us? It'll be on us.” You asked the officiant.

“I would love to join, but I have another wedding to head to tonight. And I'm going to need all the rest for that one. But thank you for the offer. I wish you two nothing but these best.”

You all said your farewells to her, thanking her one final time, and watched her leave.

“Alrighty. Any more pictures you guys want to take?” Peter held up his camera.

You shook your heads in unison, your own stomach growling, indicating you're ready to chow down. You all made your way to the cars and down to the restaurant. Being greeted and checking in, you four were seated in a private booth area with barely any noise from the rest of the establishment.

Ordering an array of foods to share, Ronnie recommended for everyone to order a drink to make a toast for you and Miguel. You agreed and got a nice fruit cocktail, and Miguel stuck to a simple glass of red wine.

“This is the part where Peter and I give our thoughts and stuff.” Ronnie raised one of her rounds of shots filled with sake. “I'm going first, so Peter, you have to try and find a way to follow mine up.” She downed the drink and wiped her lips.

“I admire you both. The dedication you give to each other is insane. The way you two interact makes it seem like you have already been together for so damn long. I will never forget the day you walked into my little shop; you were so uncomfortable as hell.”

“You ogled at me for almost a minute.” Miguel piped up. 

“She did what?” You almost gave yourself a crick in your neck to look at Ronnie.

“But the moment my great employee, my amazing friend, came up to the front, I could immediately tell how smitten you were for her.” Ronnie grabs another shot. “Even though you were wearing your sunglasses, you didn't need to see to know. Then, as the days went by, the further love between you was wild. You two made each other comfortable and wanted. An absolute.” She downs the drink.

“Basically, what I'm trying to say is, you two are in love, and no matter what you'll face, no matter how big or little, or how the outcomes may come out, you will see the light within each other.” Another glass. 

Your heart fluttered, and Miguel reached for your hand. “Ronnie, thank you; that was beautiful. You're going to make me cry.” You had to get a napkin to dab at the corners of your eyes.

“Thanks. Cause I certainly know there will be lights being seen on your honeymo-”

“And now it's my turn. Certainly don't know how I could top that, Ronnie.” Peter shakenly laughed. “I'll try to make it short and sweet, because I'm starving.” He bought his wine glass close to his face.

“Miguel, I could talk about the first time you let it slip about missy over here or how you were freaking out on what date to take her on.”

You giggled at that and nudged the abashed man.

“But I'm going to say what I haven't said before: you are making your future with a person you love; continue to write your story and look back whenever you need that pick me up.” He tilted the glass toward you. “And I know you're going to let him tell his story, one page at a time. I'm so proud of you, and I will never stress that enough.”

“Gracias, Peter. Gracias Ronnie.” Miguel said. 

“Thank you two for being here for us.” You added in and beamed. 

Clinking your drinks together, the first round of food was brought out, and you guys began to chow down. You and Ronnie watched in astonishment with how much Peter and Miguel tore into the meals; even a couple of staff members were wide-eyed. Peter stayed until desert, heading back home to not keep his sick wife and child abandoned too long. Bringing you both in a bear hug, you said your goodbyes when you had to excuse yourself to answer a phone call from your parents.

Miguel kept his eyes on your figure when something jostled him out of it.

“Heya, business partner.” Ronnie plopped right by Miguel, checking to make sure you were out of earshot. “How is he doing?”

Miguel gave a side glance and leaned back with his arms crossed. “I'm not even going to entertain what you're about to say.”

Ronnie gave a hardy laugh and pretended to wipe some tears away. “Miggy, Miggy, Miggy, always the ones with the great jokes.” She sighed out and patted his back. 

The man creased his brows at your friend. He still doesn't understand how you two get along, but he tries not to question it. He decided to wait and see what she had up her sleeve for her to be acting this way. 

“Yes, Ronnie?”

The woman cleared her throat and sat up straight. “Right, no need to butter you up; you're happy and married to the love of your life, my girl. You know, Y/n.”

Now Miguel was severely lost. He had no idea where she was heading, and frankly, it frightened him some. Anything was possible when it came to Ronnie, but he was going to give that ear.

“Ronnie?”

“Okay, for real, jumping to the chase.” She sipped her cocktail and smacked her lips. “I saw the way your eye twitched when the officiant said her name. Like, sort of, how should I say? Realization?”

Miguel had to keep his composure. He swore he played it off well. “I was trying not to get too teary-eyed from the start.” To Miguel, that sounded like a reasonable explanation; no need to go further into details. And yet, he knew this was Ronnie he was dealing with.

“Okay. Fair.” 

He was shocked; it actually worked for her.

“So why the hell were you looking at the certificate with a thousand-yard stare? And don't tell me it was because you were in awe and got to marry her.”

He blinked.

“Yeah. I overheard that. So tell me… why?”

Miguel was begging you to come back any minute. He was in a frenzy, needing to find some sort of new response. No matter what he pulled out, they all were ridiculous. A voice being cleared jolted him back into reality.

There he was met with a very smug Ronnie.

“You never knew her name.”

Miguel didn't say a word. The silence screamed out, and that's when she slapped the table. 

“I knew it! It made sense why you would never say her name. I thought it was this endearing thing with the nickname, but no! That was never the case.” Ronnie glanced back and went right back to Miguel.

He was embarrassed. His face hidden behind his face in full fledged shame. “Do not tell her. I'll never be able to live it down if she finds it.”

“Oh my God, holy hell. You went through hell and back; you're living with her; you put a ring on it, and you never once bothered to try and learn her fucking name?” 

“Ronnie, por favor! I beg of you, please don't bring it up.” His voice was at the lowest it could go; his cheeks flushed.

“Oh, I won't.” Ronnie said.

Miguel exhaled greatly and leaned back in the booth. “Gracias, Ronnie. I feel like an idiot for never bothering to learn. No puedo creer que realmente hi-”

“Unless you do something for me.” She folded her hands on the table.

“I should've known. I should've known better.” Miguel mumbled and dragged his hands down his face and sighed loudly. “Are you seriously about to blackmail me? You know that's illegal.”

“You call it blackmailing; I call it investing in a long-term business.” She swept her hand in the air, stars in her eyes. 

Miguel wondered if it wouldn't be too bad if you knew he didn't exactly learn your name. He started to weigh the pros and cons when Ronnie tapped the table.

“I will give details on what I would like in return soon enough. I do want you to enjoy your day with your lovely wife.” She gestured to you strolling back in with a giant grin and sparks when you saw Miguel.

“So what were you two chatting about?” You slid next to Miguel and snuggled your body on his.

“How good the meal was and how you two are very much made for each other.”

You were slightly lost, but chalked it up to Ronnie being Ronnie. After leaving the restaurant and Ronnie stealing one more photo of you two on her phone, she drove you two back to your apartment, where you and Miguel slumped on the couch. 

“So, Mr. O'Hara?” You scooted over to him. 

“Yes, Mrs. O'Hara?” He wrapped his arm around you.

“How about we get out of these clothes?”

“Mhm.”

“Take a nice, long, steamy shower.” You rubbed his chest. 

“Mhm?” He took your hands and kissed them. 

“And get some rest?” 

“Yes, please. Having to endure Peter and Ronnie's nonsense was a lot,” he smiled and put his lips to your ring. “But I would do it over and over, knowing I would get to marry my moon and relive this day.”

“Wouldn't you rather do it once so we can make new memories for the future?”

He chuckled. “Is that your way of saying you wouldn't want to be stuck in that loop?”

“... Maybe.” You gave a cheesy smile and leaned in to kiss him. “I love you dearly, mi Estrella.”

“Y te amaré por siempre, mi Luna.”

[astrokid425]

sparkle and shine aka a really good song for edward twilight from the suckening

alright so this song...i cant stop listening to the full version like at all. THIS SHIT HITS!!! and i want to talk about some of the things ive noticed in the song because its really cool. everyone is loosely tied to an instrument and thats something i really enjoy

so lets talk about the saxophone that is always playing. the solo sax which i think is an alto really captures edwards whole mood. its a romantic sax part of course it will, buts it the way that the thing needs to be supported by multiple instruments, piano which is playing simple cords all the time, a lot of percussion like tamberine and drum kit thats really only doing only one thing, violins which go up and down in a really simple beat, and voices, which there are many. if this was just a sax song, it'd still be good by itself but it'd sound empty. i think that symbolizes how edward is good at what he does, but he cant do it alone. he needs people that are willing, people that need to be somewhat in the know.

the piano part screams mary because of how crucial something like that is. this instrument is a staple jazz instrument, as in a lot of other genres of music. she also completely stops playing whenever the sax goes into the higher registry or when that one string instrument plays. she stops helping him whenever he goes into a high, waits, then goes again. if im right, thats such a cool way to have mary as a characterization as the piano piece

bass = deacon, supports him, but you can barely hear him. i think he plays the entire time, even when that one string instrument has an 8 measure solo. i think thats why the bass symbolizes him, because he supports shilos instrument.

NOW SHILOS PART!!! HES THAT ONE INSTRUMENT I CANT FIGURE OUT AND IM GONNA GO NUTZO BECAUSE I THINK ITS SOME TYPE OF ASIAN STRING INSTURMENT. maybe its the violin but i wanna say the pipa because it has that ring to it. anyways thats me going crazy now to the good bits! edit: its not th pipa its a fucking harp...guys im stupid

the sax completely stops playing whenever the HARP plays, it has a nice solo that goes of the base melody but also does its own thing. its supplied whatever is given and goes on this cool solo thats really good, but after eight measures the sax comes back in with a click from a tamberine. i think that tamberine is supposed to represent renwick in that part because thats the queue to switch over because hes the one that revealed that there is a prince out there.

all the other saxes are the edward copies, they play the same part as him but dont follow him to where they are also as important as him. they make his long notes not sound that bad, they make his notes into a cord. long notes is sometimes where the music can get boring due to it being there for so long. the other saxes stabilize his note and make sure its not boring.

the voices i think are vampire society in general. they play the crucial role of also not making it boring, but take those voices out then all of a sudden it sounds really empty and not a lot of things are that interesting.

alr thanks for coming to my ramblings, hope im right because i luv jazz. might do this for some other songs but i think this one is important because it plays on the "if everyone banded together, he has no power" motif which i adore

[fragileizy]

family and i just played a game that took about thirty minutes.

here's the deal: my dad and i really want to get into snorkeling. my dad used to have a scuba license way back in the day but he hasn't been able to go scuba-ing since we moved to the states, which at this point is a very long time ago. he misses scuba-ing. but my mom would rather kill me than let me attempt to get a scuba license, and would rather kill him than allow him to regain his scuba license, because she's afraid that we will both drown, so that whole world is completely off limits to us (for now.) so we're going to snorkel instead. fun. soft. easy. a kit on amazon costs $35 a pop, which is pretty cheap comparatively. it's a first-time hobby, so we don't need anything fancy, and the kit comes with two flippers (duck feet), one snorkel tube, and one mask each.

my dad buys two, one for me and one for him. one size small (for me) because i have small feet, one size medium (for him) because he is a grown man.

my dad, for whatever reason, misclicks and orders two orders of the exact same thing.

four packages arrive at our house a few days later. he's aware that he needs to return two of these packages because we don't need four snorkel gears.

now, the game begins: how do you ensure that you open one small and one medium, without having to unnecessarily open an extra bag?

my dad takes a chance, and opens one at random: a small, for me, leaving three packages behind. 66.6% chance of getting a medium when he opens another package, a 33.3% of getting another small. but this family has a curse. 33.3% of getting something wrong always indicates that he has a 100% chance of getting it wrong. it's just always like this. (i unfortunately used all of our luck at a hotel resort bingo in the summer 2009, where i proceeded to win every single bingo game that night for four hours straight. i was then banned from participating in that hotel's bingo night ever again, as they were convinced— somehow, someway— that an 11 year old Child was cheating. at bingo.)

this is our predicament.

three giant plastic bags line our dining table. in one corner, a seniored more-salt-than-pepper-haired man, chewing on a cuticle (bad habit of his), looking over his glasses, attempting to figure out which one to open. in the other corner, me, tapping my nails on the wooden table (bad habit of mine, always stimming, annoying everyone around me with how much noise i make), trying to decipher the hieroglyphics both usps and amazon stamp across the surface of each package.

the game, of course, is not this serious; amazon won't kill us if we try to return a package that we've resealed. but it's a game. and my dad likes probability. he's always said he'd love to blackjack and poker if it wasn't so upsetting that you actually have to lose money in the process. i like probability, too, and why not make something as mundane as easy into something so difficult?

my dad and i, on opposite corners of the dining table.

"shouldn't each package have a transit ID?" i ask. "look at the order on amazon and we can match the number to the serial code."

an idea. a good one. my dad is rushing for his phone. it's under my mother's account on amazon; she pulls up the receipt. a number. a path. we grab the bags and search for this tracking number. there are no less than four individual serial codes on each tag, all in an attempt to dissuade us.

none of them match any of the tracking IDs. i'm grateful, even for a moment, to not be a bar-scanner machine at the amazon facility. i would be fired immediately.

my mom looks a little unimpressed with our lack of motion. it's been thirteen minutes. she's given up on trying to convince us to just open it, because she's seen the sparkle of good fun shining in our eyes. "theoretically, your dad's kit should be heavier because his flippers should be a size bigger so there's more plastic. we should go get the bathroom scale."

"it would, yeah. but the difference wouldn't be in kilograms," my dad tells her. "it would be grams. the bathroom scale isn't precise enough."

"the kitchen scale is in grams," i offer.

"the kitchen scale is too small for this," he counters. "we can't weigh these."

so, how do we win?

the solution, in theory, is simple: ask someone who wasn't born into the family name to open the second bag, meaning that the family curse isn't used to open it.

we both turn to my mom. pleading. asking for help. a family curse is one you can't break just because it's inconvenient, after all.

my mom looks. the packages are identical. she stares. the bags do not move, and offer no solace. she picks up the unwrapped kit that we already know is mine, and tests the weight in her hands. she moves to the next, scrutinizing, in the same way i've always seen her calculate something imaginary to me while she weighs her options on potatoes and cherry-tomatoes at the grocery store.

then, she settles: "this one weighs more."

we scramble to tear the plastic off, a pack of wolves descending on prey, something akin to the fervor of a delicious black-friday sale picked apart for scraps. the plastic bag is ripped, out the kit goes, and we search the surface for the size number on the front of the nylon mesh that incases the flippers, horrified for a brief moment that we might be wrong. our fingers trace the surface, fingertips against the plastic cover as if searching for braille.

medium, the bag states. bold letters, made tiny along the surface, but clear enough to read.

my mom has gotten it right.

all is right in the world. my father and i can sleep easy. it is time for rest. and to return the other two back to amazon and make sure my dad doesn't miss-click again. the family curse still stays, but we have mitigated around it for now.

[bakersstreetirregulars]

2023 Cookie of the Year: Kingdom Edition

☁️ Heya! I’m sure you got the note my colleague Kit sent you and pinned at the top of the blog. She’ll be working her way into being part of our main contributor panel over the next couple months just as I and Strawberry Crepe Cookie have, which is how we ended up becoming frequent contributors on this blog. How she got into this is a long story, and one for another time. But moving on to the main topic here, it’s time to vote for 2023’s Cookie of the Year! In case you missed it last year like Vanilla Meringue Cookie (Your ACTUAL Editor, who also goes by Meringue) did, here’s how it works:

Every playable Cookie (minus the collaboration Cookies including Sonic, Tails, and BTS) in CRK will be split into a tournament bracket full of 1v1 matchups

In each matchup, pick the one you like more. There WILL be matchups where your vote will force you to choose favorites OVER your favorites.

Finalists will receive special prizes of all kinds which we don’t know yet!

Everyone might receive different matchups.

All times listed below are in KST (GMT+9)

R1: Update launch - 12/17, 11:59 AM (top 64 of 110 will advance)

R2: 12/17, 1 PM - 12/20, 11:59 AM (top 32 of 64 will advance, this is where the bracket goes to the real 1v1 situations where one goes home in each matchup)

R3: 12/20, 1 PM - 12/23, 11:59 AM (top 16 of 32 will advance)

R4: 12/23, 1 PM - 12/25, 11:59 AM (the top 6 of 16 will advance to the semifinals, more than half of the quarterfinalists will be eliminated)

Semifinals: 12/25, 1 PM - 12/27, 11:59 AM (the top 3 of 6 will advance to the finals)

Finals: 12/27, 1 PM - 12/29, 11:59 AM

Results Announcement: 12/29, 1 PM

☁️ Anyways, let’s move on to the first round with some matchups that appeared on Meringue’s end. There WILL one-sided matches because of high rarity or reputation and splitting-hair rounds because you gotta choose between favorites. It’s possible you could have different matchups though, as more than half the competition is still moving on. Once you make your vote in a round, you can’t take it back. Vote in every matchup in a round for 200 Crystals.

Sorbet Shark vs Peppermint (Good luck choosing between them…)

Kouign-Amann vs Twizzly Gummy

Lilac vs Frilled Jellyfish

Strawberry Crepe vs Cherry Blossom (So pink! And also so loud!)

Oyster vs Financier (Which side of the Crème Republic is YOUR favorite?)

Werewolf vs Blackberry (Since the beginning and somewhat found a place in the meta)

Pastry vs Schwarzwälder (A continuation of a closing story.)

Chili Pepper vs Sea Fairy (The first Cookies of their rarity to be seen in the game)

Almond vs Black Pearl

Frost Queen vs Sherbet (They did this on purpose.)

Herb vs Onion (Since the beginning and left behind…)

Burnt Cheese vs Milky Way (Introductory guides in the latest World Exploration updates)

Affogato vs Muscle (Brains or Brawn?)

Golden Cheese vs Vampire (Back row Arena Destroyers)

Clover vs Prophet

Fettuccine vs Raspberry

Wizard vs Carrot

Custard III vs Tea Knight

Icicle Yeti vs Alchemist

Crimson Coral vs Tiger Lily

Candy Diver vs Cotton (Witnesses to Legends)

Fig vs Kumiho (Forest residents)

Pancake vs Crunchy Chip

Devil vs Stardust

Cherry vs Capsaicin

Pinecone vs Carol (The second holiday round)

Parfait vs Moonlight

Ninja vs Gumball

Strawberry vs Pitaya Dragon

Adventurer vs Dark Cacao

Mala Sauce vs Cream Puff

Moon Rabbit vs Snapdragon

Tarte Tatin vs Poison Mushroom (Boss Destroyers)

Captain Caviar vs Crème Brûlée (the newcomer)

Licorice vs Pure Vanilla

Princess vs Dark Choco (Royal descendants)

Pumpkin Pie vs Latte

Milk vs Avocado

Knight vs Cream Unicorn

Linzer (the other newcomer) vs Red Velvet

Sparkling vs Rye

Angel vs GingerBrave (Consider this a practice round /j)

Beet vs Mango

Royal Margarine vs Shining Glitter

Macaron vs Clotted Cream

Purple Yam vs Caramel Arrow (Fierce fighters…)

Eclair vs Mint Choco (They have the same EN voice actor)

Rockstar vs Squid Ink

Snow Sugar vs Espresso (Since the beginning, new Magic Candies!)

Space Doughnut vs Black Lemonade

Blueberry Pie vs Black Raisin (Intelligent. Reserved. They both know what they’re doing.)

Madeline vs Pomegranate (The vanguards of light and dark.)

Hollyberry vs Wildberry (Did they seriously do this on purpose???)

Olive vs Prune Juice

Mozzarella vs Cocoa

[donatellarose]

— just a game

John’ Soap’ MacTavish x f!reader

rated e - 725 words

tags: fluff, reader is engaged to Soap, post mission, found family with the rest of 141, everyone is so soft because I needed to see that side of my boys

prompt:  pick a lyric from "So High School" by Taylor Swift

dividers:  saradika graphics

Unwinding after a stressful mission with a family you never asked for.

The ride back to base was near silent, everyone's adrenaline slowly settling down after a successful mission. You covered a yawn before following the others back to the section of the base allotted for the task force. Everyone's private quarters branched off from a communal area with a kitchen and living space. Though recently, Soap had moved into your room after a year of dating and your recent engagement.

You cast a glance at the attached balcony, Price and Ghost already making their way outside. It had become a ritual of sorts after a mission. A calming spot to unwind.

Entering your room, you slid off your kit and changed into the blue shirt you'd stolen from Johnny. His gentle touch wrapped around your waist, his lips pressing a kiss to your temple as he passed by before going freshen up himself.

You were swapping out the bandage on your left arm before his hand gently batted yours away. He lightly pressed you back against the wall as he took over tending your minor wound.

"I don't like seeing you hurt, lovely girl."

His gaze searched yours, his ocean eyes an endless pool you were constantly getting lost in. Johnny stepped away briefly to discard the old gauze pad before he returning with your engagement ring sparkling between his gloved fingers. Catching your left hand, he pressed a kiss to your fourth finger before sliding your ring back on. It had been in a small blue jewelry box for safekeeping, just like any other time you went out in the field. It doesn't matter how many times he did so, a smile lit up your face .

'Do you think you'll cry when Price walks me down the aisle? I hope so."

"You cheeky minx."

He laughed before pressing a quick kiss to your forehead. Threading his fingers through yours, he tugged you outside where Price and the team had already set up pillows. You settled down beside your fiancee, your head lightly resting on his chest as you gazed up at the stars. Kyle brought over bottles of water before he sprawled out on the pillows as well, using Johnny's legs for a pillow.

"Let's play a game. Marry. Kiss. Kill."

Johnny glanced down at your suggestion. You met his gaze with a laugh.

"Well? Are you gonna marry, kiss, or kill me? It’s just a game, but really...."

He rolled his eyes at your question, casting a pointed glance at your shining ring finger. Ruffling your hair, he pulled you close.

"I'm betting on two of the three. We can take out Ghost together if you need a kill though.'

"Oi! That'll do."

Simon's voice quickly cut in as he sank down beside Johnny while lightly flicking his shoulder. Price had settled down on your other side pressing a small ice pack against your left arm over the bandage Johnny had redone.

Something in your heart seemed to swell at the gentle side of them no one else ever saw. Your hands idly braided a small section of Kyle's short, black curls. His eye's fluttered closed at the touch. After all, they did the same before every mission for you. It had started as a joke, but soon the four small braids woven into whatever hairstyle you wore out in the field served as a reminder. That you weren't alone. You were protected. That they had your back.

You weren't sure where Price had learned to do a lace braid, or Simon had picked up a fishtail style. Johnny's four strand braid was as extra as he could be at time. The rope braid Kyle effortlessly twisted finished the style by often wrapping around the elastic. Thought it was all hidden by a helmet, each of you knew it was there.

You glanced around at each of the four men, peace and contentedness on each of their tired faces.

"I'm glad I met you. All of you have become so important to me. You care about me and make me feel safe. You're the family I never had. And I thought that wouldn't be in my story. But I'm so glad it is."

Johnny brushed an errant lock of hair from your forehead, tender affection in his gaze. His words were soft, but full of conviction and promise.

"We've got you, lass. Always."

[involveyoursensess]

How to Choose the Right Car Interior Accessories for a Stylish Car Look?

It's equally important that your car stands out, whether on the outside or the inside. Car interior accessories can transform the look and feel of your vehicle to make it more stylish and practical. Right accessories do not only beautify the aesthetics but also make the whole driving experience more satisfying. This guide will discuss how to select the right car interior accessories to match your style and make your car look even more luxurious.

1. Style and Utility:

Car interior accessories should meet two basic goals: improve the look of your car and provide functionality. While choosing accessories, pay attention to form as well as function. For example, a tissue box is very functional, yet it can give your car an air of class.

As seen, the Involve Luxury Art Leather Tissue Box is also a good illustration. Its smooth and elegant looks are perfect and suitable for putting inside any vehicle's interior. The tissue box, made with quality leather material, gives one a feel of high class since you can, at the same time, achieve convenience in a quick access manner. The use of art leather gives your vehicle a texture of premium feel through this stylish item, which takes the overall aspect of the looks up.

2. Multi-Purpose Accessories:

Be sure to choose car accessories that can be used in more than one way. It will make your car look neat, organized, and stylish all at once. A good example includes the Involve Tubeless Tyre Metal Puncture Repair Kit for Car and Bike. The product comes at a reasonable size and is compact and lightweight to pack while equipping one to handle emergency scenarios and ensure safety for a safe journey while allowing one to achieve a car whose interior is left tidy.

3. Practical accessories to perfection:

Clean the cleaning accessories and forget the inside of your car. Cleaning accessories will not only make your car look fresh but also keep you well-prepared in case things get messy. The Involve Microfiber Cloth for Car is a good product to maintain the cleanliness and shine of the interior of your car. This microfiber cloth is highly absorbent and soft in material. It is good for wiping surfaces, cleaning a dashboard, and removing dust. It is gently designed on a car's interior, making it an essential accessory to maintain that pristine look.

4. Classy Storage Solution That Won't Spoil Your View:

An organized car is a beautiful car. You won't want chaos ruining the aspect of your car's interior. One of the best ways you can keep things organized in your vehicle is to have classy-looking storage solutions. This is the case with the Involve Diamond Trashbin apart from looking like an ornament, it also serves as an ornament. This is, apart from a trash can, a decorative item, due to its sparkling diamond design and rosegold finish. It is a great way to keep your car tidy without sacrificing style. 

5. Select Accessories According to Your Taste:

Lastly, your car should reflect your style and taste. To determine the right accessory for your car, observe your preferences as well as lifestyle first.

Whether you want elegance, functionality, or something that will represent your flair, the Involve Car Kit - Starter Gift Pack is an excellent all-in-one package. What you get from this pack is the variety of things it includes; you have a high-quality tissue box, some cleaning materials, and other necessary car care stuff that you can customize to suit your fancy in making your interior look well organized, classy, and functional.

By choosing the car interior accessories that encompass the perfect balance of aesthetics, practice, and personal style, you will raise your car's interior to a new level. Here, multifunctional items would be chosen such as the Involve Luxury Art Leather Tissue Box, Involve Tubeless Tyre Metal Puncture Repair Kit, and finishing the list the Involve Diamond Trashbin with an out-sleek rosegold finish. As in the case above, you create a highly stylish and sumptuous inside and enhance your driving process to be a lot more pleasant and convenient, too.

Where magic flows into balancing a form with function in this fabulous automobile lies style. Allow each of your senses to create, and define the design, color, and texture as something to encourage accessorizing choices into an environment from driving where that feels exclusively yours.

[smilesconceptssydney]

Let Your Teeth Shine Bright with Teeth Whitening - Smile Concepts

Teeth Whitening Sydney & Teeth Whitening Cost | Smile Concepts

Smile Concepts offer effective and affordable solutions for laser teeth whitening. Perfect your smile today. Visit us in Sydney CBD.

Is your smile feeling a little dull? Let us help you restore your bright and confident smile with professional teeth whitening service! If you have stained, discoloured, or dull teeth, this is the perfect solution to get that sparkle back.🌟 Reveal a whiter, brighter smile in no time.

Say Goodbyeto Stained Teeth

Why do I have yellow or dark teeth?

Day to day activities such as drinking tea, coffee, colas, red wine and smoking tobacco can cause undue stress and strain on the colour of your teeth.

If you are not happy with the discolouration of your teeth, we have a solution! Tooth whitening!

Home Whitening

Home teeth whitening is cheaper and it helps you get a better result with the new advanced materials that have been invented.

Generally you spend about an hour a day for about 7 to 14 days and your teeth will be whiter & brighter.

Office Whitening

Office teeth whitening (sometime called power bleaching) generally take about an hour to hour and a half of your time.

Examples are Pola Office, Opalescence, Zoom, Laser Smile, Rembrandt, Brite Smile, Smart Bleach, OpusWhite.

All have the same relative result.

Deep Bleaching

Involves 3 stages

One visit to the practice for priming your teeth

2 weeks of special home whitening that you wear overnight

Then the deep bleaching in the final visit in the practice with Kor Whitening

How often can IWhiten My Teeth?

Current research shows that whitening should be done in regularly if you want to maintain a white bright smile.

This is where you have your initial teeth whitening procedure and a booster teeth whitening kit can be used to every three to six months to maintain the natural look and feel.

Is tooth whitening for everybody?

The last point to remember is that not everybody benefits from tooth whitening & therefore other solutions may be more appropriate such as Porcelain Veneers.

Are there any prerequisites to teeth whitening?

The most important thing though to consider is that you have a very healthy mouth before you carry out these procedures:

There are two conditions you should be concerned about

Gum disease like gingivitis or periodontal disease. This is caused by a collection of tartar on your teeth.

The whitening gel will whiten the tartar and damage your gums if you have any of these conditions and when in the future you get your teeth cleaned the teeth underneath will still be stained

Tooth decay. The whitening gel can creep into the nerve of your tooth causing severe pain if you have tooth decay

Therefore it is highly recommended that you have had a checkup done in the last three months before you have whitening done.

No. 1: In-Surgery Whitening

Using the latest blue light technology and whitening solution, we can whiten your teeth in as little as an hour!

Safe and very effective, your teeth will be between 6 to 8 shades lighter.

We also offer a take-home kit to top up the initial whitening treatment (this has an added cost to you office treatment) You will be given instructions and advice on the best time to use this and the continuing results you can expect.

Whitening your teeth will provide an instant lift to your smile to give you that extra confidence to show them off!

What actually happens with in-surgery whitening?


Your gums and lips are protected with barrier materials and a ‘before’ picture is taken.

The whitening gel is applied on your teeth, and the blue light activates it.
 You relax.

After three 8 to 20-minute cycles (just over an hour), the procedure is completed and an ‘after’ picture is taken.

You rinse. You smile.

Wow!

How white will my teeth get?


Clinical studies show that in-surgery whitening procedures deliver up to eight shades lighter and even higher for individuals with darker teeth.

Results will vary as the starting points may be different and everyone’s teeth respond differently.

During the consultation, we will go over what you can expect for your individual situation.

What if I have sensitive teeth?


About 10% of our clients may experience a dull ache following the procedure.

Taking an analgesic almost always resolves the discomfort. It is best to avoid hot and cold drinks for the first 24 hours.

We will provide you with an information sheet on how we can help you reduce the sensitivity as much as possible.

Does it work with crowns, veneers or bonding?


In-surgery whitening treatment cannot change the colour of your crowns, veneers or bonding.

We will recommend the best course of action if we are whitening your teeth and are fitting crowns, veneers or bonding.

How long does it last?


On average, it lasts for 2-3 years, but the long-term results depend primarily on the individual.

Certain habits, such as the use of tobacco products, drinking a lot of coffee, tea, dark soft drinks and infrequent visits to the dentist for regular cleanings etc. can work against the results.

How do I keep my teeth white?


Regular professional care can help maintain the whiteness for years.

Some people may prefer to have the whitening procedure carried out every few years to maintain the whiteness or even simply topping up the whitening treatment with a take-home mini whitening kit.

Why do dentists charge differently?

Prices vary between various dentists based on

The type of material that has been supplied (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide)

The concentration of the material provided (2% all the way to 35%)

The number of tubes that has been provided for home whitening

The number of cycles in office whitening ( one cycle to 4 cycles)

Don’t be fooled with cheap prices. There are always hidden charges when you actually get the procedure done.

Also it is always safer to have a dentist do your whitening as in the dental practice we protect your gums and other tissues such as cheeks and lips from being burned.

People who claim to do whitening and are not dental professionals can cause serious damage.

There have been multiple cases of severe burns with whitening when not carried out by a dentist.

Tooth Sensitivity

During the first 24 hours following whitening many patients experience sensitivity.

This sensitivity is usually mild unless your teeth are normally sensitive.

With in-office whitening, this sensitivity will usually subside within 1-2 days.

With take-home whitening, it may be necessary to reduce the number of hours you wear the tray or stop using it for a short time to resolve the sensitivity.

However, if your teeth are normally sensitive, whitening may make your teeth much more sensitive for an extended period of time.

Under these circumstances, you may choose to delay whitening until we are able to complete desensitisation procedures.

Gum Irritation

Whitening may cause temporary inflammation of your gums.

With In office whitening, this can be the result of very small amount of gel leaking under the gum protection.

A burning sensation in your gums may also occur.

This is a minor problem and will subside within a few days. With take-home whitening, irritation can result from using the whitening tray too many hours when you first start whitening or using the tray too many hours in a row without a break.

It may be necessary for you to reduce the number of hours you are wearing the tray or stop using it for a short time to resolve these gum problems.

The tray may also overlap your gums, allowing the gel to contact your gums for an extended period.

This problem can be resolved by returning to this office so that we can trim the tray to a position slightly short of your gums.

Sore Throat

Most take-home whitening gel is very thick and will not run down your throat if you overload the tray with gel.

However, if your gel is lower in viscosity, the excess may go down your throat and cause soreness.

This soreness will subside in several days. In the event that you feel gel in your mouth or throat, spit out the excess gel instead of swallowing it.

Leaking Fillings or Cavities

Most whitening is indicated for the outside of the teeth (unless you already had a root canal).

However, if you have any fillings that are leaking and the gel gets into the inside of the teeth, damage to the nerves of the tooth could result.

In this case, the fillings need to be redone prior to the whitening.

In addition, open cavities can also allow gel to reach the nerves of the teeth.

All cavities should also be filled before whitening.

[cornishkat]

Midnight Kiss

Jake ‘Hangman’ Seresin x F!Reader

Warnings: None just pure fluff

Summary:  A fancy dress New Years Eve party and a red dress might just get you a midnight kiss with Hangman.

Notes:  Juts a quick fluffy little New Year one shot.

The Hard Deck looked great, shining and sparkling with decorations for New Years Eve.  You were looking forward to seeing in 2023 with the other Daggers and also seeing the back of 2022, it had be a hard year, but the past few months back at Top Gun with the Dagger Squad had made it better.  You were looking forward to all of you being able to cut loose after the last mission and just enjoy yourselves knowing that you had at least the next few days off.

Payback and Fanboy had called fancy dress and you didn’t even mind that, it had been fun going to find your costumes with Phoenix.  You were also looking forward to seeing what everyone else was going to turn up wearing, though you couldn’t even begin to imagine what Mav would turn up as.

Phoenix had gone with a Great Gatsby flapper dress, and she looked stunning, you had thought about doing the same but then you had seen a copy of Marilyn Monroe’s red dress from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.  The red sequins glittered and shimmered and you had stared at it so long that Phoenix had made you go and try it on.

“Oh, my good you look amazing, you have to wear it”

Turning around in the mirror you looked at yourself from all angles, it was so beautiful, but it was also slit all the way up to the to the middle of your thighs and neckline plunged down to almost your waist.

“I really don’t think I can pull this off”

“Believe me you can more than pull it off and I can’t wait to see Hangman’s face when he sees you in this dress”

“I have told you before, Hangman is not interested in me.  He flirts with everyone, I’m nothing special”

“He may flirt with everyone, but he doesn’t look at anyone else the way he looks at you”

“Quit it Phoenix, I am sure he will find himself a stunning woman to kiss at midnight”

“I am willing to bet money on the fact it will be you he is kissing at midnight”

“You can make that bet, and I will be more than happy to take your money”

“$100 says I’m right”

“I’ll feel bad about taking your money, but you’re on”

Now as you stood in the bar you were starting to regret your choice of attire, you felt like a million dollars, but you also felt nervous as the rest of the crew had never seen you in anything other than a flying suit or sports kit.  And no matter how much you had protested to Phoenix earlier you were wondering how Hangman would react.  You couldn’t deny your attraction to him, but you were also well aware he could have his pick of women and there was no way you could measure up.

Before you could consider further if you had chance to go home and change into something less conspicuous before anyone else arrived you heard a low whistle from behind you.

“Phoenix, Merlin looking hot”

Turning you saw Rooster walking across the bar in a full Elvis jumpsuit with Payback and Fanboy behind him rocking very cool pirate costumes.

“So, I take it the fancy dress call was just so you two could live out your pirate fantasy?”

“Hell yes, but Merlin it was also worth it so see you in that dress, you are looking damn fine, who knew you could scrub up so well”

“I’ll take that as a compliment I think”

“Ok make away the drinks are on the King”

“Why do I think that costume is going to be an excuse for you to start singing later Rooster”

“It’s Now or Never”

Groaning you all moved to let Rooster to the bar, that was not going to be the last Elvis song used in a cheesy line tonight by him.

“Anyone seen Coyote or Hangman?”

“Properly still doing their hair and waiting to make big entrance”

“Well, it isn’t easy to look this good all of the time”

Peeking out from behind Rooster you saw Hangman and Coyote sauntering over to the bar.  They had both gone full cowboy, plaid shirts, jeans, finished off with waistcoats, cowboy boots and hats and gun holsters slung on their hips.  

“Looking good Hangman”

“Feeling good Rooster, you getting the drinks in?”

“On it”

As Rooster stepped to the bar, he cleared the path between you and Hangman.

“Holy Shit Merlin, that is one hell of a dress”

“Well allegedly gentlemen prefer blondes”

“Yes, we do”

“Hangman are you classing yourself as a gentleman?”

“Sweetheart for you always”

Despite your initial nerves as the drinks flowed and the music played you were really enjoying yourself. Everyone hit the dancefloor and Rooster had jumped onto the piano and given his best Elvis rendition.    As you leant again the piano you looked out at the rest of the squad enjoying themselves and your heart swelled.  Smiling as you saw Penny and Mav at the bar dressed as a Pink Lady and a T-Bird.

Hangman couldn’t take his eyes off you, that dress was positively sinful, and you had gotten every detail perfect from the red satin shoes to the way your blond curls formed a shining halo around your face.  He needed to be kissing you at midnight, come hell or high water his lips needed to be on yours.  His stomach flipped as he watched you leaning up against the piano, you were radiant.  He knew his feelings for you had been developing over the last few months but his usual confidence with women seemed to desert him when it came to you.  And he didn’t want to just turn on the charm and get you into bed for one night, he, Jake Seresin actually wanted the whole world with you, all of it.  Tonight, was going to be the night, fortune favours the brave and with you looking like that he couldn’t afford to wait around for some other guy to sweep you off your feet.

As Rooster finished singing and the music was put back on you felt someone come over and stand by your side.

“So, Marylin, do you have a dance for a cowboy”

Looking across Hangman was stood next to you in a mock bow holding his hand out to you.

Smiling you placed your hand in his and let him lead you to the dancefloor, as he swung you into his arms you caught sight of Phoenix dancing behind him, smiling she winked at you, and you rolled your eyes back at her.  As the song ended and a slow song began neither of you moved, he pulled you closer and swayed you gently against him.  As you felt his body against yours and rested your cheek on his you felt like you had come home, and you never wanted the dance to end.  But eventually the song ended, and he released you.

Hangman glanced at his watch, there was five minutes until midnight, and he needed to make sure he was with you.  When he had danced with your earlier and held you in her arms he knew his fate was sealed.  Scanning the bar he searched for you, he could see Phoenix and Bob over by the bar, but he couldn’t find you.  He could feel his heart sink as he scanned back around the room,

“You ok man?”

“Coyote, have you seen Merlin?”

“Ahh, getting ready to make your move at midnight?”

“Not if I can’t find her”

“Last I saw her she was over at the bar with Mav”

Hangman swung around again and there you were, laughing with Mav.  As he started to move his way across to the bar, he heard the countdown begin.  He strode across the bar; his only thought was to get to you before the clock struck midnight.  

As you took the glass of champagne offered by Phoenix you couldn’t help but look around for Hangman, the thought of your dance echoing through your mind and as the countdown began you realised, he was the only one you wanted to be kissing as the new year began.  You saw him making a beeline for you across the bar as the countdown continued and you could feel the smile spreading on your face as he grew closer.  Your eyes met with his and the look of determination on his face made you smile even more.  He didn’t seem to even notice the women trying to get his attention as he moved through crowd and you realised, he only had eyes for you, and it made your heart soar.  He came to a stop in front of you as the countdown finished, five, four, three, two , one…

Cupping your face with his hands he pressed his lips to yours, gently at first but has he felt you respond he deepen the kiss.  There might as well not have been anyone else in the room in that moment, just you and him.  As you eventually broke apart to catch your breath,

“Happy New Year Merlin”

“Happy New Year Hangman”

The rest of the squad surrounded both of you,

“About time”

“Thank god, I thought they were never going to get there”

“Merlin, you can keep the $100, it was only an incentive to give you a little nudge”

Hangman looked at you with a quizzical look,

“$100?”

“She bet me $100 that we would kiss at midnight, as she seemed to think you wanted to kiss me” “Well she had that right, sweetheart I have been wanting to do that for months”

“I never thought you saw me in that way”

“Are you kidding me I was in love with you even before you wore that dress”

“Well cowboy best you take me home tonight or lose me forever”

“Yes Ma’am”

[seiya234]

It took Acacia embarrassingly way too long to realize that bling could extend past the patch.

To be fair, eye patches were in and of themselves inherently cool, even as plain black cloth, let alone before you began to get crafty.

So there were cloths of a hundred many hues, embroidery, beads, buttons, sequins…

She had started 2-D but then began to go 3-D, first with things dangling down, layered thread and cloth and media on top. Then little sculptures, mechanisms, LED screens, special effects such as localized rainfall or fog powered by a rune below….

Her doctor, who had been the family doctor since the triplets were three, was pretty game with anything Acacia did, but put her foot down when Acacia started mentioning extra support straps and neck pain.

“Can’t you just make your own eye. I’ll send you the specs if it’ll keep you from blowing the rest of your face off accidentally.”

Acacia had never done anything in resin before but of course her mother had helped Acacia figured out the best kit for her needs. When she got it in, she was paralyzed for a second with indecision- so many choices!- but then she had THE best idea.

You couldn’t bedazzle an eye- obviously too pokey to do on the surface, impossible to recreate the same effect from within.

But she was Acacia Ruth Polaris Pines and nothing was impossible for her.

It took longer than she would have liked- five days instead of three- but at the end she had a eyeball that was both Barbie Girl and comfortable at the same time.

It sparkled. It shined. It was pink and yellow and rainbow and iridescent all at once. She wore it to do a mail run and it literally stopped traffic.

The eye was clearly a success and a week or two later, Acacia was in her workshop, resin on one side, and the material for the next eye, a glow in the dark eye, on the other. But she found herself… paused.

Her hands hovered, fluttered above the resin, the dye, but they didn’t descend…and she wasn’t forcing herself to try either.

It had only been five years since it happened. It wasn’t a long time in the grand scheme of things- she was only 23. She was young, her brain was still elastic…

Her identity was not fully cemented, it was ever changing, she was ever evolving, she didn’t need to be wedded to a stupid scrap of cloth.

Shouldn’t feel so naked without it.

She felt wet cloth on her face and realized more than crying, she had put on a spare patch without even realizing.

(she told everyone the glitter eye hurt too badly to use, and never spoke of it again.)

[lonely-lost-soul]

Little Fox

(C!Fundy x Reader)

Request 12: Hey if you're making a request, do you do c!Fundy? If so, can I get a Fundy x half fox shapeshifter!reader where fundy finds an injured full fox!reader, and takes her home to patch her up without knowing that she's a shifter ówò? Context, the reader can shift into three forms: full fox, half and half(fox legs, tail, ears, fangs), and fully human. Thank you have a blessed day!!!

Requested By: Anonymous

Moving away from L’manburg or what was once L’manburg was one of the best decisions Fundy has ever made. Did it get lonely from time to time, sure, but at least he was finally at peace. He was away from his ghost of a father and away from the drama of everyone else fighting and the looming sense of death that lingered over everyone that lived in the once-prosperous nation. It was quiet and he was happy to be left alone, well, mostly alone. There was one exception, a snow-white fox that trotted around his house from time to time, curious (e/c) watching him with intent. He had always felt a connection to foxes considering he was part fox, he hated seeing them hurt or starving or treated with disrespect, so he kept them around. However the white fox didn’t seem to pay him any mind other than silently watching and wandering around his home, he started placing food out for the fox. This went on for a few months until one night something felt off. Fundy kept glancing out the window, almost like he was expecting to see someone but no one popped up until he remembered his little buddy. He didn’t know why it sent him so on edge, it was just a random arctic fox maybe it was the way the food was left untouched or the pull he felt to go the woods, but he grabbed his coat and stepped into the forest.

The first thing he noticed was the small animal prints littering the snow, there seemed to be some sort of scuffle. Worry entered his veins and his ears pressed flat against his head, he journeyed deeper into the forest and noticed little droplets of blood. Fundy adjusted his hat nervously and followed the blood droplets, crumpled on the ground in front of his feet was a blood-stained fox. The once pure white coat of the fox was stained with red splotches a big gash was torn from its side, Fundy felt nauseous. The wind seemed to blow against his exposed ears, almost urging him to pick up the fox and take it home. He reached out and picked the fox up in his arms and held it close, the wind blew again, his eyes widened a little in surprise, the wind seemed to whisper a thank you.

Back at the house he laid the fox down on his couch and began to patch up her wounds. Hopefully, she wouldn’t attack him in the morning, be too freaked out, he wrapped the bandages around the wound stopping the flow of blood. He just prayed his foxy friend would be alive come the morning light. Fundy flicked the lights off and went to sleep in his bedroom, even though all the windows were shut and locked tight he still felt that odd breeze tickle the tufts of his ears. ‘Take good care of her’ it seemed to whisper, his heart thudded in his chest as he snuggled under the covers. The morning sun streamed through his windows, blinding the hybrid slightly, he groaned loudly and sat up in bed. He ran his sharp nails through his hair tussling it a little bit, trying to calm the rat’s nest down. As snapped to consciousness fully when he noticed footsteps coming from his living room, very human-sounding footsteps. Fundy tensed and hopped out of bed storming into the room, a dagger in hand. He let out a startled shriek seeing a beautiful half-naked young woman standing in the middle of the room. However, he couldn’t even focus on that, he was more focused on the snow-white fox ears that sat atop her head, the fluffy tail behind her, and the fox-like legs.

She was like him.

“Fundy right?” She sent him a crooked smile, sharp fangs very visible, making him feel all types of things. “Names, (Y/n) and you saved my life last night.”

“You- Fox?! but- human-” His hands tangled in his orange hair mentally trying to come to terms with the fact that he had probably saved a forest spirit. “No shirt!” he sputtered feeling soft hands take his own, he noticed a smile on her lips, their eyes locked together,

“I’m a shifter. A pleasure to officially meet you.” He felt you squeeze his palms and he swallowed thickly,

“Shifter?”

He watched you nod tail swishing from side to side, you were very happy to be talking to him it seemed, Fundy felt oddly honored. “I have three forms! Full fox, half fox, and fully human,” You explained holding up three fingers on your hand. “Usually full fox is easier but as you can see,” You motioned to the bandages covering your chest, “it’s not without risks.”

“Hold the phone you’re telling me the fox I’ve been feeding-”

“Yup! That was me!” You giggled as his cheeks went red, “I appreciated it.”

“I gave you dog food! I’m so sorry, oh my god!” He sputtered out completely mortified by the situation. You let out a roaring laugh, it was very reminiscent of that of a fox but he supposed that, that made sense. He watched you dip your head and nuzzle underneath his chin, once again he felt his entire face burn red, your ears were so soft, the fur tickling his chin.

“It’s okay, I didn’t eat any of that. Just pretended.” You reassured lifting your head to once again meet his eyes. “Soooo...you gonna tell me your name? Or should I just call you handsome?” He felt the blush spread down onto his neck,

Oh no, she was so cute.

“Fundy! I’m Fundy.” He nodded more stiffly than he wanted too suddenly very aware of how close the both of them were to one another. You blinked after a few minutes peaking around his shoulder, oh shit was his tail wagging? A bright smile spread across your cheeks “Laugh it up okay! Not every day I get to have a cute fox girl nuzzle against me alright!” Your ears fell flat against your head, he watched pink spread across your cheeks, score.

“Cute?” You meekly whispered you pulled away a little to grab at your tail shyly, “Thank you.”

He was going to die, you were going to be the death of him.

After that first encounter, you, the real you, had become a staple of his life. You had moved with him a few days after showing your more human form to the hybrid. You knew how to cook which made him swoon, it tasted divine, he was tired of being alone. You made him feel like he still had hope, you were his family now even after only knowing you for such a short amount of time. There was an odd sort of bond the two of you had, he was happy to have someone understand him, on a level that no one has ever been able to before, especially not his father. Days rolled into weeks and weeks turned into months, it was about eight months in when Fundy finally confessed to you.

You’d spent the day away from home, in your full fox form, saying you needed to stretch your legs and Fundy let you go. That didn’t mean he wasn’t a mess all day worrying about your well-being all day, he barely could get anything done, so when he saw your white fur streak through the trees that night he knew you were home. He ran out onto the stones of the path and called out your name, he watched your ears twitch and turned towards him. He felt his tail begin wagging ecstatically and he could see yours begin to do the same, you charged headfirst towards him shifting as you run, as you arrived he held out his arms and you jumped right on in them. He felt your arms wrap around his neck as he lifted you into the air. He spun you around as he laughed,

“I missed you, Dee!” You purred out happily leaning back a little bit in his arms, he still held you above the ground.

“I missed you too Dearheart,” Fundy whispered looking up at your sparkling eyes it was then, with your white fur shining in the moonlight that he realized he was in love with you. “(Y/n)?”

“Hm?”

“Can I kiss you?”

“Please.” You breathed out softly, cheeks pink, ears twitching, “I’d like that very much.”

So, he did.

Two years being together of being together was finally when Wilbur- or ghostbur- decided to visit his son. You were outside in the garden, tending to some of Fundy’s vegetables deadset on using some of the fresh ones to make soup for tonight. You were in your human form so you didn’t get your white fur covered in dirt, so you didn’t hear the ghost coming close to the house until he was leaning over your shoulder.

“Hello!”

You screamed like a little kit throwing your basket through the ghost who shivered at the foreign feeling.

“Sorry, sorry! I didn’t mean to scare you!” The ghost apologized adjusting the round glasses on his face. “I heard my son Fundy lives around here but I must be mistaken!”

“Are you...you’re Wilbur aren’t you?”

“Oh! You’ve heard of me! Was it my music, please say yes!” The ghost’s eyes seemed to sparkle with hope, he shrunk a little as he watched you shake your head, “oh…”

“I’m-”

“(Y/n)! I heard you scream, you alright?” Fundy peeked his head out the door eyes going big seeing his dead father standing beside you. Wilbur looked between the both of you before a tiny smirk spread across his face,

“Ohhhhhh, I see now.” Wilbur nodded watching his son’s face go red, “My little champion is all grown up! With a beautiful human to mind you!”

“Er...not exactly.” You mumbled, allowing your ears and tail to pop up from your head, Wilbur’s jaw dropped in shock and awe.

“She’s like you!” Wilbur gaped reaching up to touch your ears, you flinched a little, and Fundy snarled at his father. “Sorry, sorry,” He pulled his hand back with a sheepish smile Fundy finally walked over to the both of you, pushing you behind him only slightly.

“What’re you doing here dad?” His voice was gruffer than you’ve ever heard it, his tail was puffed up in a way you’ve never seen before from your boyfriend.

He was on edge.

Wilbur shuffled a little fumbling with a piece of something blue in his hands. “I just wanted to check up on my son. No one’s heard from you for a while we’re all getting a little worried. I love you so-”

“Dad.” He groaned pressing his fingers to the bridge of his nose pinching it, “look. I appreciate you’re all worried but I’m happier here.”

“But you’re all alone out here! It’s not good for anyone’s health, especially not a young fox!”

“Excuse you?” Your eyes narrowed in offense, “I lived out here all my life.” You bristled in frustration, “I turned out fine.” Wilbur eyed you warily and Fundy squeezed your palm tightly, “I did!”

“I didn’t mean any offense. I’m just looking out for my son.”

“No offense but I think he can look after himself just fine.” You shot right back and Fundy covered up a surprised laugh, “So far so good. Plus he’s not alone, I’m with him.” You squeezed Fundy’s hand rather tightly, as Wilbur glanced at your intertwined hands.

“What she said.” Fundy nodded his head, “we have each other and that’s all we need. At least for right now. So try not to worry too much.” He waved his dad off, “Now if you don’t mind we have dinner to cook.” Wilbur gave a hesitant nod before turning back to look into your eyes,

“Don’t hurt him.”

“I don’t plan on it," You assured nodded your head you both had a brief staring contest before Wilbur said his official goodbyes and headed on his way. “I’m sorry,” Fundy watched your ears fall flat against your head.

“What for?” Fundy’s brows furrowed in concern, “He was being an ass, you had every right to defend yourself. Plus I hate him so.” He shrugged unbothered, “I love you though.” He pecked your cheek and you smiled shyly.

“I love you too Dee.” You spoke softly, pulling him close by his jacket, his tail began to wag enthusiastically.

“Kiss?”

“Kiss.” You nodded standing on your tiptoes to give him a long kiss, he purred tangling his fingers through your hair. You pulled away much too soon for his liking and let out a low whine, you giggled happily and peppered his face in light kisses. “Fundy?”

“Hm?”

“Let’s get married.”

“What?”

~~~

Next Up: Immortality and Nymphs Part II

[startanewdream]

James and/or Sirius laughing at Harry for growing (or trying to) grow a beard 🧔

That’s it

That’s my comment

Ahhh, it's midnight for me I work early tomorrow but I just *had* to write something along these lines!

Set during winter break at Year 6 (or my fave pining Harry time). Warning for some slang and also that I edited on the phone

________

“Fuck. No, no, it can’t be… fuck!”

The first slang would have made Sirius stop on his way down the hall, but the tone of desolation that follows it, added by the most hopelessness he has ever heard in Harry's voice, makes him open the door to his godson’s bedroom without waiting for an answer.

(Always risky when it comes to teenagers, but it seems to be an emergency)

The first thing he notices is the rotten smell, then the smoke coming out of a cauldron with the fire beneath still lit; sparkles are coming out of Harry’s wand, which he holds high (underage magic? That he won’t tell), but then Sirius’ gaze falls on Harry’s face and he ignores anything else.

Because on Harry’s face there is something so horrendous that Sirius won’t dare to call it a beard. It’s hair.

Harry’s chin spots the same hair as in his head. It’s a dark messy beard that makes him look as if his hair grew all around his mouth.

“What the hell?”

“Don’t laugh!” Harry tells him immediately, a little bit threatening, but Sirius is truly too shocked to even break a smile. This thing is too ghastly for even him to crack a joke about it. “I… I messed up, okay?”

“Kid, that’s an overstatement,” Sirius says, getting closer to his godson slowly. He touches his beard. “How did you get hair on your chin? That’s the weirdest thing I’ve ever seen.”

“Ugh.” Harry throws a guilty look to the cauldron on the floor. “It’s Grandpa Monty’s fault.”

“Unless his ghost came back to screw your face, it seems as if you did this to yourself, kid.”

“No, I… Look!” He picks a scroll, waving it in front of Sirius’ nose. “I found his old notes in the attic. Five-Second Eazybeard! I swear I brewed the potion exactly as he wrote.”

Sirius eyes the smelly potion.

“Are you sure it was your granddad’s notes? This doesn’t seem like Monty's style at all.”

“Well… I thought so. He was the potioneer in the family, right? And he invented Sleekeazy!”

“And then he didn’t launch anything else,” Sirius reminds him, looking at the potion instructions.

“Because he was rich enough and didn’t need more money?”

Sirius laughs. “Nah, Monty was curious enough to keep inventing. This was probably an attempt that didn’t work.” Sirius shakes his head, smirking. “Look, I am not trying to pull a Lily here, but trying untested potions? That’s a bad idea, Harry.”

"I haven't had problems so far," Harry mumbles to himself. As Sirius is about to ask him what he means by that, Harry grabs his hand suddenly. "I learned the lesson, ok? Now you gotta help me!"

Sirius lifts an eyebrow. "The only thing that would help you is a scissor."

"I've tried! The bathroom is full of this thing, but it just grew back! I've tried to cut it magically, and it's all the same. You are the adult here, do something!"

"What do you want me to do? I can't do an antidote just looking at the ingredient list! You need Lily, just call her—"

"I…" the part of Harry's face that is not covered by hair flushes. "I can't. She is at the Burrow now, helping Mrs Weasley with the New Year's party."

"Then let's go, I am sure it will be easy for her—"

"No!" Harry looks in panic now, his eyes widened. "She cannot know what… what happened."

"Lily will know as soon as—"

"Not… not Mum, it's… look, that's fine. Mum will be back tomorrow, I will just spend the New Year hiding in my room pretending I don't exist."

"Harry… there's nothing to be embarrassed about. You know, growing hair body is perfectly normal at your age—"

"Ugh, stop teasing me."

"I wish I could, but you look truly horrible." Sirius winks at him, sitting on Harry's bed. "What prompted you to do this?"

Harry's flush intensifies.

"I was trying to grow a beard."

"Oh, really?"

"It's… it's stupid, okay? But Ginny was… I mean, I heard some girls saying that they enjoyed guys with a beard and I can only grow that stupid stubble and—argh—I just thought I could give it a try but now I have hair growing all around my head and—"

"You are babbling, kid, I got it."

"No, you don't." Harry runs his hand through his hair, looking very much like James when he is most nervous. "You get to grow a beard when you want it. You get this whole shining hair. You get women to sigh for you and I… I am just this stupid teenager who can't even have a full beard."

Sirius blinks. "You are worrying way too much, Harry. And, well, if you want to be assured, you are nice—girls have taken a fancy to you, haven't they?"

"That's just the Chosen One thing, it's not really… me."

Sirius fights back a smile. Harry seems really desolate.

"Look, you've grown well. You are still growing. I am sure people notice you. You have your mother's gorgeous eyes and you do look like James—if there is any comfort in this, I remind you that James got Lily to feel attracted to him, so you can't be that bad." Harry frowns, and Sirius isn't sure if it's because he doesn't want to think of their parents being attracted to each other or if because he doesn't trust Lily's opinion on this matter. "I am sure Ginny thinks you are attractive, beard or no beard."

Harry jumps.

"Who said anything—"

"Oh, are we still pretending you don't fancy her?"

Harry looks away. "I have no idea what you are talking about."

"Yeah, sure. So you don't mind going to the Burrow now and showing up like this?"

"Of course I do! I mean… Ron would tease me."

"Ron."

"And the twins. I mean, look at this!"

"Yeah, I would be upset if they didn't. So many joke opportunities. You are hairy, Harry."

Harry puts his hands in front of his face. Sirius refrains from telling him this doesn't hide his beard at all.

"So… what do I do now?"

"We truly need Lily's help on this… we need to go to the Burrow."

"I can't—"

"Don't worry." Sirius breathes heavily. "Your godfather won't leave you alone on this."

_________

"It was an accident, Lily," Sirius tells her, his hand playing with the hair over his chin. His new grown hair beard reaches his chest and Sirius is almost finishing a braid by now. "I was trying some old potion, and then Harry was close and it just splashed in both of us."

Lily lifts her eyebrows, her eyes moving from Sirius to Harry and then back.

"An accident?" she repeats, incredulous.

"I am so sorry," he says, the portrait of innocence. "Could you help us with an antidote? And before you say anything, I know I shouldn't have tested an unknown potion. But do this for Harry, not for me. Poor kid doesn't deserve to spend the night hiding. It's a New Year's party after all!"

Lily shakes her head, amused.

"Fine, because you asked so eloquently. I will grab my potion kit, a hair inhibitor should be enough."

"You truly are the best, Lily," Sirius tells her, beaming.

Harry waits until his mother is out of the room to let out a relieved breath.

"Thanks so much, Sirius," he says.

Sirius nods, still messing with the hair on his chin. It's so weird and it looks as ghastly in him as it does on Harry.

He doesn't regret applying that potion to his face. His sacrifice worked just as he planned to: with two people having hair growing out of their chins, the attention was divided and with Sirius taking the blame, people felt sorry enough for Harry to not mock him much.

"Hey," they turn around to see Ginny coming closer, holding a tray with some sandwiches for them. "Mum thought you would be hungry while hiding here."

"Thanks," Sirius says, because Harry seems too busy pretending to look outside the window, anything so he can try to avoid Ginny looking at his beard.

Ginny nods at Sirius, but she approaches Harry anyway.

"Your mum is already working on the antidote, don't worry," she tells him gently. "Look, it's not as bad as that time Percy tried to grow a moustache, remember?"

Harry chuckles. "You are so lying."

"I would never," she assures him, voice light. "Look at me."

Harry turns to her almost as if he can't control it. His eyes soften as he gazes upon her, and Sirius is suddenly reminded of how Lily always looks when she sees James.

Ginny raises her hand slowly, giving Harry plenty of time to back away, but he just stays quiet as she touches his beard, her fingers running through it. Sirius suspects Harry isn't even breathing anymore.

"It's soft," she tells Harry and for a moment they just stare at each other. Sirius decides that he is really witnessing a moment that he doesn't want to, but his attempt to quietly leave the room only alerts them to his presence. Ginny's hand falls back as if she got electrocuted. "Anyway, you look better without it."

Harry grimaces. "I guess that stupid stubble is better than this."

"Stupid stubble?" Ginny blinks, evidently surprised. "It's not stupid, I… I mean, girls love it on you."

"They do?"

"Yeah, well, just thinking about your stubble brushing my skin—I mean, their skin, as in other girls' shoulders, or holding your face while… never mind, I just… I just heard it, that's all. You are drawing a lot of attention."

"I know, all this Chosen One stupid thing—"

"It's not it... you are really oblivious to your charm, Harry."

"You think I am charming?" Harry asks, longing evident in his voice now.

"I…" Ginny hesitates, turning away as if she doesn't want to answer this while looking at Harry, and her eyes meet Sirius. He smirks at her, knowing perfectly well her answer. Ginny's face reddens even as her jaw sets in a protective instance. "Yeah, with the stubble. Everyone knows it. It's common knowledge. I… I have to go, I think I heard Mum calling me."

Sirius could point out that Molly didn't call her at all, but he opts for just letting Ginny go, his smirk more than enough to let her know she didn't fool him.

At the other corner of the room, Harry's face is spotting a huge grin, watching the door with a dreamy expression.

"She likes my stubble!" He declares happily. "Oh, I need to take off this stupid long beard now."

Sirius shakes his head at Harry, amused. At least Harry won't ever complain about his inability to grow a beard again.

[honey-milk-depresso]

If requests are open, may I request Idia, Leona, and Azul with a s/o who seems very aloof and apathetic towards things until they're including? Like they won't put effort or time into it, but the second the dorm leaders are involved, they go all out. Or they just only really care about the dorm leaders! I apologize for my word vomit ahhh and if requests are closed, I apologize for not reading things properly..!!!

Oh, that's an interesting request! (Also requests ARE open!! ^^) Hope you enjoy!!

Aloof s/o that goes all out for someone

Idia Shroud

Man-

Not gonna lie-

he's pretty intimidated by your aloof personality-

he doesn't really know how to even talk to you.

Well, I mean, he doesn't know proper social interaction in general,

But you were on a whole new level to him.

Like, at least he can talk to Azul without feeling weird,

and Azul's pretty intimidating with his "business persona".

And every time someone talks to you,

you're just so

emotionless.

Like, you just seemed uninterested.

So it made him think how you're ever going to be interested in him.

He knows he's nerdy,

and he thinks you're the type who doesn't bother about talking about interests,

or you hate small talk,

or just find it annoying that people talk to you.

But boy that was wrong.

When he was captured by that ghost princess and was forced to marry her,

you crashed that wedding.

Big time.

And you took his hand.

"We're leaving here. I'm going to make sure you're safe."

You-

He-

W H A T-

He was so flustered.

You were like, a hero in an anime he watched, and he's just so-

in awe????

You bothered to save him?? And come to his rescue?? And risk your life??

He honestly felt like he's in some sort of romance manga, just that somehow he's the princess that was saved by you, the prince.

He feels special knowing that you care deeply for him, although you don't look like it.

You really are his knight in shining armor..... in a way-

Leona Kingscholar

I mean-

He doesn't really care at first-

Chances are, he probably think you're like him too.

He doesn't care about talking to others,

nor does he care if they are in peril.

It doesn't affect him, so he doesn't do anything, or at the very least, much.

He's just quite pissed with that emotionless expression your face.

Kinda ticks him off.

But he didn't really care for you, much like you didn't care for him.

Well,

seemingly, at first.

The first thing he saw when he woke up after his overblot was you

standing there crouching beside him while lightly holding his cheek.

"What the hell.."

"Are you okay?"

He stared at you.

Your face didn't looked worried, still emotionless looking as can be,

but your eyes tell a different story otherwise.

You actually cared for him?

And did everything you could to turn him back and keep him alive?

Well,

he wasn't expecting that.

Well, now I guess you can say,

after the overblot events,

he also showed his care and concern very subtly.

Like grumbling, asking you to go to sleep because it’s late at night,

or he just throw some hands for you because someone’s bullying you for being emotionless.

He insists that they’re annoying him, too,

but let’s be real-

he care bout u fam-

Azul Ashengrotto

He just sucked it up as you being formal.

He didn’t really think much of it.

He just treated you like he always did,

and I guess he thought you were just being weary of his sketchy deals that come at you.

Not gonna lie,

if he were you,

he’d be keeping his distance, too.

But,

like-

do you have to be cold about it???

At least like-

ya know-

fake smile, or some shit???

Well, okay,

it doesn’t matter right?

He’s not going to lie,

he was a felt quite the amount of tension from you.

Just the look of your emotionless face sends him signals of

“Avoid, avoid, avoid-”

Because he does not now how to deal with you.

But after his overblot,

he realized you always come into his office,

giving him a warm cup of tea, asking how was his day and if he was doing alright.

He was quite confused.

He heard from Jade that you immediately went over to treat his wounds

okay this is a headcanon anything can happen-

so u brought a first aid kit a��ight?-

He felt

warm.

He thanked you for your subtle efforts of caring an showing concern for him, and you bowed your head politely, eyes sparkling a twinkle before going back to what you were doing murdering-

he’s never had a person besides his family and maybe Jade and Floyd care for him. This is the first time he has ever received genuine concern from someone else, and it turned out to be you.

If you’d go all out of your way for him, than he shall do the same in return.

A deal must be fulfilled by both parties, right? <3

[agerefandom]

Kitchen Friends

Fandom: Marvel

Characters: Regressor!Reader (he/him pronouns), cgs!Steve Rogers and Bucky Barnes

Words: 2,600

Summary: Bucky and Steve have been your friends for almost a year, and you don’t usually host the dinner nights. It’s a little stressful, but you’re excited to see Bucky and Steve!

Content Warnings: anxiety mentions, accidental injury, blood, involuntary regression, caregiver accidentally pushing too hard and getting called out, regression accidentally getting revealed. Brief references to wartime and trauma.

for @shadowdreamer5​

It had been a rough day and you weren’t sure why.

Nothing upsetting had happened, but you woke up anxious and the feeling lingered through the day. You tried to push it down, get your chores finished. Steve and Bucky were coming over tonight, and you wanted your apartment to be presentable. Which meant you needed to do the dishes you’d been avoiding for the past few days.

Luckily, you’d already done the groceries, so you didn’t have to leave the house (just the thought made your heart beat faster).

With the help of your favourite playlist, you got down to business in the late afternoon. The dishes were finished, the floors were vacuumed, and you’d even dusted a few shelves before giving up on that particular chore.

You ran over your evening plans as you hummed along to the music. Steve and Bucky had been over to your place before, but this was the first time you were serving dinner. Usually, you just lost track of time when you were together and ended up ordering pizza when you realized it was dinnertime. Their apartment was much nicer, so you’d been there for dinner more often. Both Steve and Bucky were great cooks, and you were well-aware that you probably weren’t going to measure up, but that was alright. It was the thought that counted, as Steve often reminded you.

Steve was a good friend. You’d met Bucky first, at the library, both of you favouring the same reading nook tucked away in a private corner. After awkwardly running into each other for the fifth time, you had both resigned yourself to being friends. Bucky had introduced you to Steve later that week, and you’d been… well. Doing your best not to hyperventilate while meeting Captain America. He probably got that a lot.

You didn’t know their entire history, but you knew that they had been friends before the war (and wasn’t that strange to think about, the Second World War being something that they remembered?), and you knew that Bucky preferred to keep out of the media. As far as most of the world was concerned, Bucky Barnes had died in service seventy years ago. You hadn’t asked why he was walking around a public library in the twenty-first century, but you learned pieces of both of their past as you got to know them. It was a history defined by combat, duty, and bonds. You could understand why they now lived the way they did, deliberately normal: farmer’s markets and library books, flowers on the dining table. It was a reclaiming exercise, a carefully cultivated domestic sphere to retreat into when the fighting was done.

You smiled as you finished washing the bathroom sink, rinsing the suds down the drain. It was a keen pleasure to be included in their domestic life, your home a new retreat for them. They picked up your favourite Netflix shows, asked about your preferred stores and where you got your favourite button-up. While both of them seemed well-adjusted to the current time period, there was always much more to learn.

Your reverie was broken by a knock on the door.

Oh, crap. That was probably them. Was it really six already? You’d completely lost track of the time, and you’d been so busy with chores that you hadn’t started any of the food.

You eyed your sparkling bathroom with new contempt, tossed your sponge back onto the side of the bathtub, and went to open the door.

Sure enough, Steve and Bucky stood in the hall. Bucky was holding a salad and Steve cradled a plate of brownies. They were dressed down in jeans and t-shirts, Bucky’s shirt featuring a cat wearing sunglasses and Steve’s a plain grey.

“I told you guys not to bring anything,” you greeted them, frowning at the food in their hands.

“It felt wrong to come over with our hands empty,” Steve shrugged, and gave you the brownies. The pan was still slightly warm, and you were sure they were going to be melty, soft, and delicious. The man had a talent.

“Well, come in,” you said, and went to drop the brownies on the kitchen counter. “I haven’t started dinner yet, I’m sorry.” You were feeling a little more settled now that they were here. They toed off their shoes and put them in their place by the door. Bucky dropped the salad on the table and leaned on the counter as you grabbed vegetables from the fridge.  

“Can we help?” Bucky said, snagging a red pepper from your hand and a cutting board from the dish-pile.

“Looks like you’re going to,” you pointed out. “And yeah, that would be great. Thank you.”

“What can I do?” Steve asked, joining you in the kitchen.

“Cut the broccoli and the beans.” You pushed them both into his arms, and put a cutting board on top. “It’s for a casserole, so cut them bite-sized.”

Steve offered a shining smile, balancing his armful of equipment. “Yessir,” he quipped, and went to do his work at the table, since your little kitchen was already a bit cramped with two people sharing counter-space.

“How have you been?” Bucky asked, slicing his pepper open and carving out the seeds inside. “It’s been over a week since we caught up.”

“Busy. Tired,” you said honestly. “Pulling through.”

“I feel that,” Bucky sighed. “Thanks for having us over, by the way. We’ve been looking forward to it.”

“So have I!” Your hands are busy peeling potatoes over the sink, but you give Bucky a smile. “Gives me a reason to clean the apartment, too.”

“We should come over more often,” Bucky teased.

“Maybe you should.”

You turned back to your work with a smile, but just then, your knife hit an odd divot in the potato you were peeling and dashed sideways into your thumb. You hissed as the blade cut into your finger, and dropped everything into the sink. The clatter caught the others’ attention, and Bucky was at your side in a flash.

Blood welled in the cut, and you felt abruptly dizzy. You’d never been good with blood, you remembered your mother teasing you about it when she’d cut herself in the kitchen. It had been just like this, dripping into the sink, and you’d cried and clung to her despite her protests.

You could feel the tears in your eyes now, either from the pain or the surprise. The blood kept coming, and you were scared. What if you had to go to the hospital? You hated the hospital. Needles and doctors and that awful smell of people dying. You couldn’t go to the hospital. They couldn’t make you go.

“It’s alright,” you could hear Bucky saying. “Just a little cut, Steve, get his first-aid kit. Above the bathroom sink.” A hand on your shoulder, solid but gentle. “Hey, it’s alright. We’ll get it patched up right away.”

“Sorry,” you managed. Somewhere in the back of your head, you were aware that you were over-reacting to a little cut. But mostly you were just scared and tired and dizzy. “Bad at blood.” The weight of the day was rushing back in all at once, and you couldn’t handle it on top of everything else. Your knees gave out, but Bucky was there, scooping you up.

You could feel the cold of his metal arm even through the back of your t-shirt, his other arm looped under your knees as he lifted you.

“Oops,” Bucky said, as if he hadn’t meant to pick you up. “To the bathroom, I guess.”

You knew you shouldn’t, that you should protest and try to walk, but you couldn’t help but curl into Bucky’s chest as he carried you. They were so strong, these two, and it was easy to see in their bodies, but it was a different thing to feel the ease with which he lifted you, almost heedless of your weight.

“Is he okay?” you heard Steve ask, and the rustle of a bag. Probably your first-aid kit? Bucky said something about that.

“Overwhelmed,” Bucky said, and shifted you around in his arms. Suddenly, you were sitting on the couch on Bucky’s lap, which was kind of silly but also surprisingly comfy. “Ready for Doctor Rogers to fix that finger up?” he asked you, carefully picking up your injured hand.

You did your best to frown at him, but you were well aware that it probably looked more like a pout. He was talking to you like he knew that you were fighting off your regression, and that wasn’t fair at all. Bucky and Steve didn’t even know that you were a regressor.

Something cold pressed against your thumb, making you jump. You looked over to see Steve carefully wiping the blood from your hand, his expression almost comically focused on the task. He was even gentler with the area around the cut, but you still winced.

Bucky put a hand on the back of your neck, humming sympathetically.

Seriously, what was up with them? It felt like they were falling into caregiver behaviour, and you couldn’t call them out on that. But it was making it harder and harder to fight your regression, and you didn’t know what to do.

“Sorry, bud, but we’ve got to clean it before you get a band-aid,” Steve said, and smeared some cream across the cut. It didn’t hurt, but you weren’t expecting it, and you made a sharp noise of complaint. “Almost done,” Steve reassured you.

“Being so brave,” Bucky said, squeezing your uninjured hand. “Good job.”

Alright, that was it. That was not something that someone should say to an adult who had given himself a little cut. You pulled your hand from Steve’s grasp and got off Bucky’s lap, stumbling a little but determined to make your point.

“What’s going on?” you asked, hearing your voice wavering on the line between regressed and adult. “Why are you guys treating me like a kid?”

Steve and Bucky shared a look, and Steve ducked his head slightly.

“I’m sorry if we overstepped,” Steve said. “We… hm.” He stalled out, glancing at you and then at Bucky. “Do you know about a thing called age regression?” Steve said.

“I- what?” Your knees felt so weak. What was happening right now?

“It’s a coping mechanism, usually a reaction to trauma or stress,” Bucky explained. You could barely hear him over your heartbeat in your ears. “We saw it a lot in the tents between missions. People who feel a little younger when they’re not doing well. We didn’t have a word for it at the time.”

“We didn’t mean to push things,” Steve said, still apologetic. “I guess we have, patterns, for dealing with people who seem younger than usual. We didn’t want to make you uncomfortable.”

“You guys are… caregivers?” you managed.

“Yes!” Steve perked up. “Or, at least, we’d like to be. It was… it was…” He trailed off, and you noticed that Bucky had started holding his hand at some point.

“It was one of the things we shared with our old team,” Bucky finished for him. “We miss it. It was part of how we relaxed, taking care of our friends. But Steve’s right, we shouldn’t have pushed things with you. Old habits.”

“No, it’s. It’s okay.” You stared at your feet, feeling overwhelmed and dizzy and impossibly far behind. “You’re right, I’m a regressor. I didn’t think you knew.”

“We didn’t, really,” Bucky said. “Not until now.”

“I’m sorry.” The tears were threatening to start again, and you didn’t even know why. This was all so big and it felt so important but you couldn’t think. Your head hurt from all the crying, and your thumb was still aching, and you should have had dinner in the oven an hour ago. “I messed it all up.”

“No!” Both of them said immediately.

“We’re the ones who messed up,” Steve continued. “Of course it was scary to have your friends treat you like a child. Even if you were regressing, it would have been disorienting. We should have said something.”

“Maybe.” Steve has a point, it was pretty confusing. And they could have just asked you. “But it was nice.”

“Yeah? It wasn’t bad?” Bucky asked, looking hopeful.

“Gosh, no, of course not,” you rushed to reassure him. “It was really nice. I was just trying to stay big, and you were making it hard. But it was nice.” You needed to find another word, but it was just… nice!

“Well. You can be big if you want,” Steve said, fiddling with the corner of the first-aid bag. “You can put your own band-aid on and cook dinner.” You wait, knowing from his tone that he isn’t finished. “Or… we could help you put the band-aid on, and I can finish dinner while you show Bucky what you like to do when you’re younger.”

“That sounds good,” you confessed. “The second one.” You were still wavering in your adult headspace, and all you wanted to do is climb back into Bucky’s lap.

“Yeah?” Steve and Bucky both looked cheered by the idea. It was sweet that they were so excited about this. It must have really been something the two of them missed.

“Yeah.” You dug your socked toes into the carpet, suddenly shy. “Um, I’m pretty… small though. I dunno if you really want that.”

“How old are you, bud?” Steve asked, leaning forward.

You held your hand out with three fingers up. Now that you knew the nicknames are deliberate, they pushed you even deeper into your regression. You weren’t sure you could have talked if you wanted to.

“That’s not small at all,” Steve said seriously. “I think you’re a very big, brave boy, who still needs a band-aid for his finger.”

Bucky patted his lap and held out a hand, a clear invitation.

You walked forward to him, feeling a little out of your body, certain that this was a dream. But Bucky’s lap was just as comfy as you remembered, and it was easy to lean into his chest and drift. Steve lifted your hand, wiped it down again, and then produced a band-aid from the bag. It was one of your patterned ones, and you fought the urge to hide your face when you realized it was one of the Iron Man ones.

“Ah, I see how it is,” Steve teased, and then gently wrapped it around your finger, smoothing the adhesive. “Well, as long as you’re protected, it’s alright.” He kissed the tip of your finger where it poked out from the band-aid, and this time you couldn’t fight the instinct to hide your face against Bucky’s chest.

“You’re embarrassing him,” Bucky chuckled, running a hand over the back of your head, fingers slipping through your hair. “Give him a break, he’s only three.”

You made a little happy sound and pushed into Bucky’s fingers. You’d always liked getting your head petted when you were regressed. It was the most wonderful feeling, especially after a bottle or a warm meal.

Bucky obediently continued to pet your head, and Steve got to his feet.

“Well, I’d better tackle dinner,” Steve said. “You two enjoy the rest, and I’ll let you know when it’s in the oven.”

“Thanks, Stevie,” Bucky said. “I think it’s going to be a good night, even if dinner’s a little late.”

Nuzzling closer into Bucky’s chest as his fingers trailed through your hair, you found that you had to agree.