#like a night ago my brother annoyed her too much so she didn't sleep in his bed and instead went to mine

[arinmoss]

you WILL look at this creature!!!!!!

[liahaslosthermind]

~ 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑫𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑳𝒐𝒔𝒔 ~

(Past) Rhysand x OC, (Eventual) Azriel x OC Part 2 of Betrayal

Summary: He was out of his mind with grief. Azriel had been through his fair share of trauma. He had seen and done horrific things, but that was always with Adelaide by his side. Now, he didn't know what to do, and he was losing it. Warnings: Suicidal thoughts and ideology, Death of a loved one, grief, Hurt/No Comfort

His limbs ached as he stood up from his chair. He had been sitting there so long that walking felt much harder than it usually did.

He rubbed the haze from his eyes while walking to the door, the incessant knocking making his headache worse.

"Fuck, Az. You look- how do you- do you want me to..." Cassian stood in front of his brother, someone he'd known for 500 years, and didn't recognize the male he saw.

It had been the first time in almost 2 months that Cassian's knocks were answered. He had come to her room, everyday, multiple times a day, to plead with his brother to talk to him, to eat something, to just let Cassian look at him so he could see he was alive.

Azriel said nothing as he turned around and went back to the chair he had been occupying. Cassian closed the door behind him as he took in the room.

It was the same as it had been the day she left. Even though this had been the place Azriel spent most of his days, the Shadowsinger had kept it all the same, only touching her bed that he would sleep in the nights he could stomach it, or the chair he was currently in now.

A mess of papers on the desk brought tears to Cassian's eyes. Adelaide, sweet and caring Adelaide, had been making a list of Solstice gifts for her family when she was called to join some of the Inner Circle on a meeting all those months ago. A meeting that had been a trap for them. A meeting that ended up taking her life.

Azriel cleared his throat when Cassian went to pick up a piece of paper. He had tried to hard to keep her room clean while also not disturbing things from the spot she had put them in.

"Nesta told me that her and Elaine have been leaving you food but it remains untouched."

"Is there a question, brother?" Azriel asked. His voice had always been rough, and he had always been more on the quiet side, but Cassian could tell that because of lack of use, it hurt him to speak.

"Why aren't you eating? How can we get you to? I would do anything, Az." he pleaded.

The spymaster didn't answer.

"Whats the end goal? Believe me, if you want 1,000 years to mourn her, I will be with you every step of the way. I've tried to give you space, but you are killing yourself! You sit in here all day, only coming out when everyone is asleep or gone. What do you need to care about your life again?"

He was met with a distracted look from Azriel.

His brother was never distracted. He was never careless. He hadn't missed a day of training for no reason in hundreds of years. Cassian knew he still trained every once in a while, but Azriel always found times to do it when no one else was around.

Azriel didn't have an answer for Cassian, at least not one he would like.

How could I care for my life when her's is over? he thought. By the desperate look on Cassian's face, he could tell his brother knew the answer.

"I lost her too. I know it was different with the two of you, you were each others'... person, but she was as much my sister as you are my brother. I didn't... I didn't even get to say goodbye." Cassian finally broke at the confession. He hadn't let himself think about it, he had to keep himself together for Azriel. "The last time I talked to her, we where fighting over food. She stole the slice of cake I had saved for myself, I called her an inconvenience and a burden, she called me a spoiled bat who needs to learn to share." He let out a bittersweet laugh at the memory. They were usually at each others' throats, and when they weren't, they were teamed up to annoy someone else in their family. But they loved each other, always were there for one another, except in the end, when it mattered most.

"24 hours later, I was picking out the sarcophagus my sister was going to be laid in. I would have let her have all of my leftovers, all of my dessert, if it meant I just got one last conversation with her." Choking up, Cassian sank to the floor, a wave of familiar grief washing over him.

Azriel joined him, crying as he hugged his brother.

The two illyrians, sat like that for a while. Long after their tears had dried, long after the sun had gone down, Cassian finally spoke up.

"Why don't you go see her? Visiting helps me, talking to her even though I know she can't hear is something I do often."

In truth, Azriel hadn't gone to his best friend's mausoleum since the funeral. He couldn't see her like that, couldn't come to terms with it.

These past 6 months had been dark. Everyone was mourning her, many of the people of Velaris included, but none more than Azriel. Part of him had died, laid in the cold marble box that held her body. For the first few months, he had completely disconnected from reality. He went on with his daily routine, he trained, ate, went on missions, did paperwork, slept. But it was as it he was on autopilot, as if the real Azriel had been asleep that whole time.

Two months ago, he woke up. It was sudden, he had gone to his room for the first time in a while to grab some books that had been long overdo at the library, and the priestesses had kindly told him if they didn't get them back he would be banned for life.

Thats when he saw the blanket on the chair by his desk. She had given it to him over a century ago. It was a birthday present, a wool blanket that was enchanted to smell like her always. She had played it off as a self centered gift, so he doesn't forget about his favorite person while away on missions, in front of their friends, but Azriel knew that wasn't her true intention. Adelaide had always been a master gift giver, and she also knew Azriel had trouble sleeping most nights, but he never had any problems falling asleep on the couch next to her after a long night of conversations, wrapped comfortably in her own wool blanket.

He hadn't slept without it till the night she died.

Then, he picked it up, trying to see if the enchantment still worked. And that was all it took for him to wake up. It was awful, every bad feeling he had been too far disassociated to feel hit him at once. He curled up on the floor with the blanket wrapped around his hands and stayed there for days, silent tears never ceasing to fall.

After getting yelled at by Madja, who Nesta had called to knock some sense into him, he got up and went to her room, where he remained most of his days since.

He sat in the chair in the corner of the room, only eating to quiet his stomach, and tried as hard as he could to detach himself from the never ending agony that was his life now.

He told Cas he would see her, the general's face lighting up at the news.

He felt guilty, making Cassian so happy for something he knew would later destroy him.

Hours after Cassian had left the room, as the sun came up, Azriel went to his room to grab the blanket he hadn't touched in 2 months. Then he grabbed Truth Teller, wrote his final request, and went to see Adelaide.

The building was large, and beautifully constructed. He would have been happy that she had a resting place as elysian and inviting as she, but he knew Rhysand only spent that much money and made it this beautiful to try and lighten the guilt he felt.

The Shadowsinger stopped by the entrance, the sarcophagus without a lid placed up on the platform.

Before the funeral, Helion had come to place a enchantment on her body that would keep it perfectly preserved.

It had been more of a final gift to Addie than a show of good will between the courts. Adelaide had been a foundling on the border of Day and Night. Helion took her in as his ward and she grew up with access to the best education and scholarly texts Prythian could offer. Rhysand later made her head of the Night Court's scholarly texts, education, and research. She spent more of her life in Night than Day, but she never went so long without seeing the man who gave her all she had.

She used to tell Azriel she would take him on vacation to Day to meet Helion. He of course had met the man before but they had been the Spymaster of Night and High Lord of Day, Addie wanted them to meet as 'two of the people she loved more than anyone'.

They never did get that vacation.

And as Azriel finally looked down at her, Helion's gift to her felt like a cruel punishment to him.

6 months later, she was still as ethereal as she was the last time he saw her, but she was still just as dead.

This was where he would remain, his final request was to be laid to rest in the same building. He would be adding unnecessary pain onto his loved ones who had suffered so much already, but for the first time in his life, Azriel had decided to put himself in front of his family.

Looking her over one last time, he realized he was now completely numb.

Azriel held the gifted blanket and went to take off the one she currently had. Based off the fact it seemed to have been picked out with meticulous care to match Adelaide's coloring, and her outfit, there was no doubt it had been placed there by Mor.

On her lap, previously being covered by the blanket, laid a large and very old book.

Had one of the scholars she worked with placed it? One of the educators?

Strange marks littered the cover, but no title. Not till he opened the first page did he see what it was.

The Walking Dead

A cruel pick. Who would ever leave such a book with a corpse?

The second page was blank, so was the third, so was the fourth. Thumbing through the book, Azriel just about gave up looking at the blank pages when he finally found one with writing.

It seemed to be a poem, but it was formatted too strangely.

The title at the top read Eternally Intertwined.

A spell.

He almost dropped the book at the realization.

No one had left this book, it had been fate that had given it to him, kept it here waiting for him to stumble upon it.

He knew what he needed to do.

[moonlightkitties]

You are your fathers daughter - Red Dead Redemption Reader Insert (Part Three)

Summary: After you get shot at the O'Driscoll camp, you get close to two of the newer members of the gang.

Word Count: 2k+

Warnings: None

Part One Part Two Part Four

Who knew how strict Miss Grimshaw was whenever someone was injured?

You sure didn't until you got shot last night and have been bed ridden ever since. Here you were, laying down, in front of the fire trying your hardest not to bite the next person who asks "How're you feelin?"

You tried feeding Whisky this morning, nope, go back inside and lay down. Sitting up? Sure, just don't try to pick anything up with your bad arm. It was annoying. You hated being stuck inside when there were chores to be done.

Oh, and you've been so busy with your migraine and bullet wound that you haven't notice that there's a new member of the Van der Linde Gang.

A Mrs. Sadie Adler.

Apparently when we first got to Colter, Dutch and Arthur went out to find Micah and John. They only found Micah and he showed them a homestead that, not really surprising, was already occupied by O'Driscoll boys. Well, Micah found her hiding in the basement, and then had the bright idea to terrorize her and burn her house down on accident. She was a miserable poor thing , always crying and hardly ever sleeping. You hardly slept too so she was good company. The pair of you would stay up late, talking. About the gang and the members, her husband, your mother and why Dutch wanted revenge. In a way Sadie was very much like a female version of Dutch. She was very keen on getting revenge as much as Dutch was about Annabelle.

Until one night, when your arm was feeling a bit better she asked "Is there someone special in your life?" you froze, your cheeks going red in embarrassment "Not really" you shrug, leaning your body into the fire, trying to get warm. "Really?" she asks, surprise in her voice. "Not even a small crush?" she teases, knocking her shoulder against yours. Your cheeks turn redder, although it wasn't noticeable because of the fire. "Well, there is, but he's back in the Blackwater jail."

"Oh?" she asked, her interest perking.

"Sean, though you wouldn't know him."

Your mind went to the red headed Irishman you were talking about, he was twenty-one, and although Dutch thinks he's "too old for you" he still managed to get you on small jobs with him weather it was robbing a homestead or keeping watch over camp with him.

It was a stupid schoolgirl crush but you noticed he was taking a liking to Karen so you never had the guts to confess your feelings to him.

A silence went over you and Mrs. Adler as you thought.

"My Jakey" she began, after a few moments of said silence "Was the most kindest, patient, understanding man I've ever met" her voice trailed off so she could let out a quiet sob, your heart ached for her. You never wanted to feel the pain of loosing someone you hold close to your heart. You couldn't bear the thought of never seeing Arthur, John, Dutch or even Hosea again. You were a family with them, your two old dads and two miserable wet dogs that you call brothers. You rubbed her back as she sobbed, and after a few moments she put her hand on yours.

"You're a good kid, (y/n), I never wanted kids but if I did, I would want them to be just like you."

Your heart swelled at her praise, you hardly got any and when you did it was usually from Hosea which, you weren't complaining, but it was hard growing up without being praised for things, big or small.

"Thanks" you mumbled, your voice going shy.

"Well" she said, getting up from her chair "I think I'm gonna head to bed" you gave her nod of acknowledgement and she went to her space on the other side of the cabin and laid down. You sat there for a few more seconds before your mind trailed to the O'Driscoll boy that saved your life a few days ago. You felt guilty at dismissing his plead for you to vouch for him but you knew it would only make his situation worse.

You overheard Dutch talking to Arthur about how he was "bound to speak soon" since he "hadn't ate in days" and that made you feel even more guilty so you pulled your coat over your underclothes and snuck out of the cabin, making sure to not wake any of the other women up. Pearson should have at least a few things out, right? You made your way to the area where he was prepping the food. And yes, you felt awful stealing but you couldn't just let the O'Driscoll starve, well you could, but he saved your life! You grabbed a can of the nearest fruit you could find and made your way into the barn where he was tied up.

The barn doors creaked and you cringed at the sound "No.." the O'Driscoll whimpered in fear "I don't know anything else!" the barn doors shut a little too fast for your liking and made a loud noise as it did. Lets just hope that didn't wake anyone up. The O'Driscoll looked up, his face bruised from being beat and his cheeks hollow from being starved. His eyes widen "You" he began "I saved your life and you didn't even help me!" he exclaimed, his voice, rightfully, angry.

"I'm sorry" you began, opening the can of fruit "I couldn't just call my dad out in front of everyone" you told him "Then do it in private" he spat out. You sighed, annoyed "I can't, why would I tell him an O'Driscoll saved my life? He would never believe me!"

"I ain't an O'Driscoll" he muttered, looking away from me.

"Do you want the food or not?" you asked, getting really annoyed at his pouting.

"Yes.." he mumbled. Once you brought the can of fruit to his mouth he started lapping at it like a dog. A cute one at that. The way he lapped at the fruit juices made you think…unspeakable things. He was cute, a shy look crossed his face once you realized you were staring at him. "Oh! Sorry" you let out an awkward laugh. He looked down, his face turning a bright pink. "Well I should get going" you tell him "But I'll come back tomorrow night, I promise." As you turned to leave you could hear snow crunching from the outside of the barn. You panicked and looked for somewhere to hide but you were too late and the barn door opened. Your heart stopped as John's figure came into view. He narrowed his eyes at you and glanced between the O'Driscoll and then you. "What are you doin in here, kid?" he asked, an annoyed sigh leaving his mouth. You stood there, not knowing what to say "Uhm" you began "I just…I felt bad so I came here to feed him." John let out a chuckle "Feed him?" he repeated "He's not some type of lost puppy we found" John told you, taking a step towards you "He's an O'Driscoll" he spat out "And I can't believe you of all people are showing him mercy."

"What do you mean you of all people?" you asked, glaring up at him. John scoffs "I mean, you're Dutch's daughter, if he catches you being nice to an O'Driscoll, he's gonna have your ass." You grumbled, who cares if I was Dutch's daughter, it's not like I was some innocent lamb that needed saving. John sighed after you didn't respond "Just…come on, you're not even supposed to be out of bed, you're arm is still hurt."

"No, it's not" you snapped "I feel fine!" John raised his hands up, surprised at your outburst "Alright! Sorry! Yeesh!" nevertheless, you still followed him out of the barn and back into the cabin.

"Aren't you supposed to be resting too, scar face?" you ask him, his eyes roll at your nickname for him "I had to get away" he shrugged "Between Abigail's griping and Arthur's complains I just had to find somewhere to relax."

"I don't know why you're complaining" you tell him "If I was Abigail I would have left you long ago." John gave me a warning glare "Don't you start" he huffed "No, because you left without any warning" you snapped "You left Abigail and Jack like they were nothing." John clenched his fists at your words "You don't understand" he told you through gritted teeth "You were fourteen when I left, you knew nothing about what I was going through."

"I was young, but I still knew what was going on. Abigail was counting on you and Jack needed his father in his life." you argued. John huffed "I'm not talking to you about this." As he walked off you felt a tingle of guilt, you didn't mean to make him upset, it's just you saw how much his absence hurt Abigail, but not only her, his absence hurt you and Arthur as well. It was like he forgotten all about you. You were four when he first joined the gang and you grew up with him. Arthur was, and still is, a good older brother too, he was the one that taught you to ride Whisky once she was old enough.

The sun was about to rise and you walked into the cabin to find most of the camp awake. Karen eyed you suspiciously but didn't say anything as you sat in front of the fire. You slept almost all day yesterday so you weren't tired, even though you were up all night talking to Mrs. Adler and John. Reverend Swanson took your bandages off and let out a grunt "What's wrong?" you asked, noticing how concerned he looked "Nothing, your shoulder looks better than it did the first night, I was just worried the infection got worse."

"So, I'm all good to start chores?" you asked, getting anxious for his answer "Yes, but take it easy" Swanson replied, standing up from his chair. Finally. You were good to go back to chores instead of laying around all day. You walked out of the cabin, your shoulder was sore but you wanted to work today. Most of the work was inside the cabin since it was still freezing outside, so you spent the day washing clothes, doing dishes, even helping Pearson prepare the food.

When night came around, you were exhausted, going without sleep and working all day did something to someone. You noticed the men mounting there horses and walked over to Arthur "What's going on?" you asked, patting his horses muzzle. "Were doin the train job" he replied, gruffly. "Really?" you ask "That was today?" Arthur nodded at your question "Yep, Dutch wants us to rob the train and then get us out of here before were caught." Your head turned to Dutch who was busy talking to Hosea, they both looked annoyed with each other and when Hosea stalked off you knew he didn't approve of this plan.

"Come on gentlemen!" you heard Dutch yell "Good luck" you say to Arthur "And be safe, please" Arthur ruffled your head and gave you an affectionate chuckle "I always am kid." you give him a grin "Not always" you say "There was that job with the wagon, that job with the bank and that time you nearly got caught by that bounty hunter." Arthur rolled his eyes "Yeah, yeah, don't remind me" he chuckled.

As Arthur and the others left, you were left outside. You longed to go with them but you knew you were unexperienced and Dutch would force you to stay anyways. The O'Driscoll boy was still tied up in the barn so you made a mental note to stop by there once you checked on Hosea, he was starting to grow on you a bit. You opened the door to the cabin where Hosea was and you found him in front of the fire, busy writing something down.

"Hosea?" you asked and made him jump "Sorry!" you said, putting your arms up "Ah, (y/n), what's wrong sweetheart?" he asked, patting a chair beside him so you could sit. You shrug "Nothing, I just noticed you and dad arguing and wanted to check up on you." Hosea waved your concerns away "I'm fine, your father just" he lets out a sigh as he trails away "Your father is a very stubborn man and won't listen to anyone" he rambled "I thought we were supposed to be lying down but when there's money to rob he jumps on the chance like a cowboy at a rodeo" Hosea finishes his ramble with a huff and a rub to his forehead.

"Just, please, don't end up like your father, (y/n), for my sake" he was teasing, but his eyes told you that he was being serious. You looked like Dutch, a lot, your facial features, your dark hair, you even notice you're starting to sound like his mannerisms as well. "I'll try" you tell him. Hosea nodded "Now was that all?" he asked "I need to get some sleep. In case this job goes well we'll be leaving in the morning" you nodded "Yeah, I just wanted to check on you." Hosea pulled you into a comforting hug "You're a good kid" he told him, kissing your head, something he always did ever since you were a toddler. You melted into his embrace and stayed like that for a little moments longer. You missed these moments, you missed Hosea, it seemed like you could never see him.

"You know I'm always here for you right?" he asked and you nodded "I know…I just don't want to let you down." he chuckled "You could never let me down, you have some fire inside you and I don't want to see it burn out."

His words clung to you that moment as you walked towards the barn. The men were gone and half the camp was asleep. The O'Driscoll was sleeping when you walked towards him and jumped when you tapped his shoulder. He calmed down once he knew it was you "Hey" you said "uh hey?" he said, confusion in your voice.

"I um, I never really did thank you" you said "For saving me" the O'Driscoll shrugged "It was nothin really" he mumbled "What's your name?" you asked "Or do ya like O'Driscoll better" you smirked "Kieran" he said "Kieran Duffy."

Kieran.

"Well, Kieran, do you have a family?" you ask, trying to get to know him "Why?" he asked, suspicious "You goin ta kidnap and tie them up too?" he asked. You scoffed "No, I'm just trying to get to know you that's all."

"Well, uhm, I-I don't, my parents died when I was young, from cholera" he explained "Oh, sorry about that" you told him and he shrugged "It's alright, it was a long time ago."

As you spoke with him he mentioned he was from Ireland and that he and his parents immigrated from there to America when he was little. He also told you he joined the army but it "didn't work out" and that he joined a gang way before he met the O'Driscoll's. In the end you knew a lot about him and you told him that being Dutch's daughter demanded a lot out of you and how stressed you were about following your father's footsteps like he oh so wanted you to. You thought about the conversation that night and how much you really wanted to talk to him more. He was good company and heat rushed to yours cheeks as you thought back to the way he was nervous and squirmed around you.

Maybe, you could grow to be something more.

[keithsandwich]

First, on the phone

Pairing: Alter Keith/Maeve (OC)

Word Count: ~1.6k

Rating: NSFW

Tags: Phone Sex, Modern!AU, Country!AU (just for context, but it's still more porn than plot), Dirty Talk, Teasing, Language, Guided Masturbation, Alter being a bit of a perv.

Summary: Maeve received a call from someone determined to enjoy every single moment with her to the fullest.

Notes: I don't usually write fanfics heavily based on dialogue, but here we are. Quick context: in this AU, Maeve and Nice Keith were childhood friends until he lost his brother and moved to finish high school in a boarding school. After years away, he has returned, and Maeve is now getting to know Alter Keith properly.

Huge thanks to @bakersgrief for beta reading! 💕

Divider by @/saradika-graphics

“Aren’t you a silly girl?”

“And aren’t you an annoying guy? Gosh! So what if I’ve kept his Muse t-shirt all this time? It’s… It’s a really good shirt!”

“It’s not just the shirt, it’s ya sneakin’ into that guy’s room after he’s gone. Bet ya cried all over his stuff ‘cause ya missed him…”

“Oh my God, shut up!”

“Heh. Too bad ya can’t throw anything at me right now, huh?”

Keith heard Maeve huff in frustration over the phone. If he was honest, it was bad for him too. He missed the sight of her nostrils flaring, her cheeks flushing, and the soft impact of her pillow hitting him. He would take it into his hands, bury his face in it, and fill his lungs with the sweet smell of her hair before tossing it back as they engaged in a pillow fight.

All those sweet moments, ones he had never truly lived but only glimpsed in faded memories that weren’t even his own.

“This ain’t fair, ya know.”

“What isn’t?” Maeve asked lightheartedly, as if she hadn’t been mad at him a moment ago.

“The other guy spent more time with ya than I ever did. And now that we’re talkin’, it’s all about him. You're even wearin’ his shirt while we talk.”

“It wasn’t planned! I didn’t know you were gonna call… Besides, you were the one curious about what I usually wear to sleep. You wouldn’t know if you hadn’t asked.”

“And ya answered so eagerly, didn't ya? Why is that? Could it be…”

“There’s nothing much about an old t-shirt!”

“Not for you, maybe. Ya don’t know how my mind works…”

Silence. Two seconds of it, probably. Enough for Keith to let out a sigh as he laid back on the bed, wondering if she was still there.

“And how does your mind work?” Maeve sounded nonchalant, as if she was naive enough to just shrug and ask the obvious question following what he said. As if his mind was like the old, stolen t-shirt to her: nothing much. Not something covering the most delicious and sinful fantasies.

“I’m not good with words, Mae… I’d much rather show ya.”

“Make an effort. I really wanna know what you’re thinking right now,” she pleaded.

Fuck, he thought. She knew exactly how to use her voice to get what she wanted from him.

But not so fast.

“You curious little bird…” Keith whispered quietly. He was so sure that if he did that in her ear she would shiver; he couldn't help but imagine her doing just that alone in her room. “If ya wanna know that badly ya should let me come over.”

“Nah. But think of it this way: if you tell me, I might be convinced to…"

“Ya wouldn’t…”

“I wouldn’t have gone for a surprise night swim at the lake with you either, and yet I did. Remember?”

“How could I ever forget, Mae… Do you miss it already?”

“Hm, maybe… But right now, I really want to know what’s on your mind.”

“Ask nicely, then.”

“Pretty please?”

Again, that voice.

“I’m thinking you’re so damn cute I wanna tease you more.”

“Keith…” she murmured his name so softly it sounded like a moan.

He wondered if he was the one being teased.

“Can’t I tease ya ‘til ya wanna toss a pillow at me again?” He paused, waiting for her to sigh and keep insisting. Or to admit defeat. Whatever came first. But when the sweet little sound of her breath hit his ear, he couldn’t wait any longer. “This is what I’ve been thinkin’, silly girl: teasing you into a pillow fight while ya in this old t-shirt… Making ya jump on your bed, making ya laugh, making ya tackle me just so that I can grab you and pin you down on the mattress. That’s what’s been on my mind.”

“Well, that is… Not so bad?” She giggled in little huffs against the phone.

“Not so bad ‘til I hold your wrists above your head with one hand so I can use the other to check what’s beneath the shirt, Mae…”

“What if I kick you?”

“Giggling all cutely like this? Not sure if it’s gonna work…” He laughed along. “C’mon… It would be better than what we did at the lake…”

“Would you kiss me too?”

“Always…” Keith’s voice dropped, turning lower and more serious. “I’d kiss ya every chance I get. Especially when ya look at me with those pretty eyes of yours… Makes me wanna devour you whole.”

“Keith…”

“Can I touch your thighs as I fill your little mouth with my tongue, Mae? Can I run my hand up until I find out if you’re wearing something underneath this t-shirt ya love so much?”

“...Of course I am…” Her voice sounded so hot and heavy Keith could see her blushing in his mind.

“Of course you are. You’re such a good girl, aren’t you? Is it a white panty like the one you were wearing at the lake?”

“Oh, shut it…”

“Are ya gettin’ all shy now? Did ya think I didn’t have that image burned into my mind? That wet little mess… So sheer I could see the shape of your pussy perfectly…” His voice sounded more throaty than he intended, but Keith couldn’t control it anymore.

“I didn’t think you were looking… so closely…”

“I’ve got an eye for detail, miss. The perks of having to watch stuff through someone else’s eyes. But what about you, hm? I believe my hard cock wasn’t just a detail ya could’ve missed, was it?”

“Oh, gee… How can you be so… so…”

“Cocky?” Keith let out a quiet and low laugh, and Maeve soon followed. “Ya like it, dontcha?”

“What? Your cock?”

She was being bratty again, teasing him like that. He bit his knuckle. It was becoming harder and harder not to get in his truck and run to her.

“Yeah… That too,” he murmured when he recollected himself. “Have you ever imagined it… stretching your tight little pussy, hm, Mae?”

She sighed.

“Aren’t you getting ahead of yourself now? You were still using your hand to feel my panties…”

“Our imagination can run free while we feel each other, can’t it? But we can go back to it… My hand on your panties, my thumb… My thumb can rub your clit in little circles, can’t it?”

“Maybe…”

“Are ya losing your breath there?”

“Oh, shush… Don’t…” Another loud sigh. Her voice turned a little more husky, a little more quiet, as she went on: “Keep going.”

He hummed.

“You’re already so wet, aren’t you? I want ya leaking on your sheets, tho. Can ya do it for me, Mae? Can ya think of me pushing your panties aside and playing with your entrance a little with the tip of my finger? Don’t worry, I gotcha… I’ll keep my thumb on your clit all the time, hm?” His voice turned into a mess of labored breaths as he fought the urge to touch the length throbbing inside his sweatpants.

“When you… Say it like this…”

“What? Tell me…”

“It feels nice.”

“Hmm, I know… Ready to let me slide that finger inside you?"

Maeve swallowed her breath. This answer was satisfying enough.

“I won’t go too deep, not now anyway. There’s no need to. I just want to… To feel you, silly girl… Getting all hot and wet and… And clenching around my finger…”

Fuck.

“Keith…” she moaned. She downright moaned.

Fuck.

“Then I would go harder… I would find just… Just the right way to touch you, Mae. To touch your sweet spots… And I would go faster… Mercilessly… Faster… While stuffing your pretty mouth with my tongue… Until you can’t breathe, okay?”

“Okay…” she replied promptly, between hot huffs of air. Without thinking, without teasing, without caring.

Fuck.

“Mae… Cum for me.”

“I, ah…”

“I know you’re close. Don’t be shy now. Let it go, Mae… Cum for me, I need to hear it…”

She moaned again. Keith bit his knuckle again. His erection throbbed again.

He would go crazy.

“Give it to me, Mae. I… I can’t take it anymore…” He paused. The only things that existed were the sweet sounds she made and the overwhelming desire taking over his whole body. Keith held his breath. He thought he could hear wet sounds through the phone, and it would be the death of him. “I need you… Are you listening to me?”

Maeve made an incoherent sound as a reply.

“I… need… you…” Keith groaned like a beast.

She moaned louder. And this time, she didn’t seem able to stop it.

It was… Heaven.

“Attagirl… Enjoying yourself, hm? Go on, take your time…” he whispered softly.

“Hey…” Little by little her breathing started to settle down, and she laughed quietly. “Don’t tease me! I… I did not do anything! I was just… Playing with you!”

“Playing with me, hm?”

“Yes!! Only with you…”

“So, if I come over right now you’ll be all calm and composed?”

“Absolutely!”

“Heh. Let’s see what I’ll find, then.”

“...What?”

But it was already too late for her. Keith had already hung up and was grabbing the keys to his truck without a second thought.

There were many things he had lost because of the circumstances of his existence. He wouldn’t waste another second. He would take Maeve, and all those sweet moments of pleasure and need. All those sweet moments of teasing and laughing.

He would have them all.

Fanfic (all) taglist: @bicayaya, @floydsteeth, @solacedeer, @jozhenji, @scummy-writes

@lorei-writes, @mxrmaid_poet, @bakersgrief, @candied-boys, @aquagirl1978

@valkyyriia, @queengiuliettafirstlady, @welp-back-on-my-bs, @ludivineikewolf, @fang-and-feather

Taglist forms if you want in.

DM if you want out, or if you no longer want to be tagged in NSFW posts.

[phoenix-writer2]

Hihi! First off all I hope you are having an excellent day / afternoon / night! Second, may I request some headcanons or scenarios of the hashiras looking up at reader (who's also a hashira) as an older sibling figure (Gender Neutral)?? If it's possible for all of them all of them, if not you can pick whoever you want! Please and thank you! ^^

hi, I have an excellent night even through I should sleep, but sleep is for the weak! 🤣 I hope you are good too.

I will try my best to do this. I never did it, so I hope you like it.

Sibling HC's

The Hashira as your younger siblings

gn!reader

pairing: all Hashira except for Gyomei because I didn't had any inspiration for him ( I'm so sorry,😫) x gn! Sibling! Reader

Warning; no overreading, writing on phone because my laptop died three days ago.

Note: I tried my best, I think it got a little bit in a other direction than you wanted to have it, but I hope you still enjoy it

Sanemi Shinazugawa

❁ would always yell at you, but softer than at others

❁ you would mercyless kick his ass every time he is rude toward you, and if his language is not your liking you would smack him on the head and he would scowl at you

❁ secretly keeps an eye on you, to prevent you from harm even if he knows that you are stronger than him

Not that he will ever say that out loud, nu uh but you will kick his ass if he shows of too much

❁ likes to challenge you in everything to show off his strength

❁ you two would mostly bicker in sibling art. Hashira meetings were always funny to look. Sometimes the Hashira would even come with popcorn only to see his ass being beaten up by you

Muichiro Tokito

❁ loves to sleep everywhere together with you, because you both love sleep

❁ he tries his best to remember almost everything you told him, even if you know he doesn't it makes you very happy

❁ he forgot something? Don't worry his first thing he will be doing is going to you and take a nap

❁ he never wants to lose you, you are his precious big sister and he would do anything for you

❁ sometimes when you really want sweets, he would even go and get some, even if he forgot it halfway, you still smile at him because he really tries his best to be your little brother

Giyu Tomioka

❁ you learned him know when you were with sabito training

❁ he would always feel comfortable around you and you always play jokes on him

❁ he absolutely loved your technique so that some of his breathing forms are inspired by you

❁ you would always ruffle his hair and he would always slap your hand away with an annoyed expression even in your older days

❁ he likes to be on missions with you, because he knows you the longest and you understand him the most, even through he mostly has an neutral expression, you always knows what's in his head

Obanai Iguro

❁ oh he would definitely mock you, but you would mock him back. No one messed with you!

❁ you would always throw insults at each other much like sanemi but obanai would be much calmer in arguing with you

❁ he often finds you overtraining yourself and brings you back, it's almost like you are the younger sibling

❁ but even in this moment you would always be there protecting him, looking that he eats good and be there when he has nightmares

❁ obanai would never open say it, but he loved being your little brother and never would he change you for anyone else

Mitsuri Kanroji

❁ she loves you with all her heart, since the day you started caring for her a

❁ would always dress up with you or give you the latest makeup tips, you were also the one who dyed her hair because it were your favorite colors ( of not ignore this part)

❁ tells you everything about her crush 🥰 while you listen and also gives her tips and you opinion (your opinion is very important for her. If you don't like something she most likely will drop it, because of you)

❁ she loves doing your hair and reading love stories together with her

❁ she will always ask you to train with her, because she admires your strength and you are her idol

Kyojuro Rengoku

❁ you could think he always is smiling, but with you his cheeks will hurt

❁ knows everything about you and you about him, example fav. Food or color

❁ would always be so happy if he sees you playing with his little brother to which you also became a big sister, and often would play with you together

❁ you helped him with his forms when he was struggling and helped him to archive to be an hashira

❁ he mostly wanted to become one because you were also one and he admires you for your talent and strength

Shinobu Kocho

❁ she loves you like she loved her dead older sister

❁ if someone hurts you, the person should run because shinobu will be pissed and hase the next poison already in her hand

❁ you often helps out in the butterfly mansion which also gets you closer to the girls there

❁ you live talking to Kanao even if she doesn't always responds

❁ you once gifted shinobu a good luck charm for her first mission and she wears it since then and never takes it of

Tengen Uzui

❁ would be so proud to be your little brother

❁ his wife's like you extremely, often even more that him 🤣 he pouts then

❁ I could totally see him fighting with his wives over who will spend the time with you today

❁ everything h me comes from a mission, he would bring you a souvenir only to see you smile and being proud of him for ending his mission with flying colors

❁ you would always be welcome at his home and so is he and his wives. You would often even have a play night where you would always win in card games

[lordkingsmith]

Jack Russell/Wanderlust Coinless Au brain bunnies

Because damn it they’ve got some too now. @augment-techs you might enjoy these lol. Knowing me there will be more

It wasn't often Nick Russell brought someone back to his motel room after a night out. Wasn't often he met someone on his eternal road trip he wanted in his room. But the blueskinned yellow eyed man from the club? Yea. Didn't matter they didn't know each other's names. He'd be gone in the morning anyway, probably while his fling was still sleeping. As it was he kept his fingers buried in the man's braids as he fucked him against the bedboard, blue fingers gripping it for dear life.

The goal was if they weren't here for a long time they'd be here for a good time, with Nick fully intending to make it good. For both of them. He'd already had his legs over the other's shoulders, it was only fair for giving as good as he'd gotten.

"You good?" Nick panted as he pressed against the broader back.

"Very." Was grunted back, amusement trickling through the strain.

They only dozed for a few hours after before his companion shifted and got up, leaving Nick in the bed to watch him dress. "so…are you from Eltar?" Nick asked as the other searched for his bell bottoms.

"Heh. No. I'm not from any planet you've heard of." Was the reply as they were located, pulled off the cheap lamp's cover and pulled on. "Not even technically that species either. I just got the skin color from my mother."

"Huh." That was…interesting. "How does that work." He couldn't help but ask, and yellow eyes caught his over a blue shoulder.

"It doesn't." Nick didn't have to see his whole face to know he was scowling. "No more questions man. I need to go. Shouldn't be here."

"Y'don't say" Nick drawled. "Got a wife? Husband?" It had happened more than once, though he had stopped caring a long time ago. He rarely if ever saw these one night stands again and rarely stuck around the towns long enough to make that a problem.

"Girlfriend…technically. But she's not the one who'll show up if I don't leave." A low laugh as a pink tank top was located, then a crop top purple jacket with silver thread making the pattern of feathers in it. "That would be my worrywart half brother. Protective jackass." Another laugh. "He thinks he has to keep me from doing anything I'll regret."

"Mmmm…am I a regret?" Nick asked as he settled into the pillows with the stonecutter styled hat the man had been wearing at the club now in one hand, rescued from the end of the bed. He got another laugh as the other padded to him. Their lips pressed together for a moment before he grabbed his hat from Nick's hands.

"Possibly." he murmured as he put the hat on, the brim blooming around his face like a dark halo. "Even if you are…he can't stop me."

Shoes were then toed out from under the bed, Nick was waved at and the man was gone.

It was only a few months later on another trip into the capitol did Nick find out who his fling had been. Prince Wanderlust from another reality. Drakkon threw a parade with Wanderlust and his friends in the float of honor. Nick stared up at the man in the shining crown and feathered capelet, feeling annoyance, pride, and more than a little awe. The brown haired girl in pigtails and a green and blue skirt kissed Wanderlust soundly as they went down the street, causing Nick to snort, turning away. That would be the girlfriend.

He'd laugh if it didn't annoy him so much.

-*-

"Thought you didn't live in this reality." Jack asked as he got dressed quickly. Wanderlust hummed while he settled in a chair behind him. There had been a consistent meeting since running into each other the first time, and it usually ended up in a hotel or motel. Though they rarely stayed the full night together.

"My mistress decided to make her son and then her sometimes lover and then a friend of mine political hostages here." Wanderlust informed him.

"…this all one person or…?"

"Jack Rose, Cygnus, Brezziana." Wanderlust clarified. "You've heard of them."

"Mn. No. I travel a lot." Nick smirked at Wanderlust's quirked eyebrow. "Shit to do with here doesn't have shit to do with the cities and villages and things even a few miles away from it. Drakkon causes chaos, so do the Coinless and Drakkon's sentries. The politics of why don't affect that much."

An easy, accepting shrug. "Jack's also my big brother." He was told. "My half brother. We share a father."

"Huh."

"He doesn't have blue skin and his hair is red." Wanderlust answered the question he didn't ask with the weary air of someone who had answered it before. "The Traveler…got around."

"That your dads name or title."

"Both." Amusement again. "He is a god, after all."

Nick turned around so fast he fell over. Wanderlust laughed at him before standing up so he could help Nick up. Nick's arms were held firmly as Wanderlust smiled at him.

"I'm going to go." Wanderlust told Jack almost kindly, mostly smugly. "But I'll see you again."

Wanderlust made a portal to what looked like a lobby, as Nick stared after him. When the portal closed he grabbed the hotel phone. "K? This is Nick. Hey is that offer still open about staying with you for a while? Yea…yea don't say I told you so but…I said don't say it and you don't even know what I'm gonna say stop that."

-*-

Wanderlust didn't have time to react before Nick slammed him into the side of a building. "Give it back!"

"Give what back?"

"The blanket Wandeust!" He pulled him forward to slam him back against the wall. "My blanket! Give it back!"

"Why?" Wanderlust asked breathlessly with a grin. "It's so pretty and smells like you."

Nick swallowed fire down as mystic red roared inferno hot outrage on his behalf. "You can have my jacket, my shirt, whatever you want-I need that back!"

"Why?" Wanderlust asked again, now genuinely curious. "Why?"

"It's all I've got of my birth parents!" Nick hissed against his ear, not wanting anyone else to know. To realize. "It's all I have and I want it back!"

Wanderlust was silent, so Nick slammed him into the wall a third time. "I have had to keep that so safe-and you just-rifled through my things! To take a baby blanket! Why? Of everything you could have taken it was that!"

"It was obviously special."

"It's all I have!" Nick shouted again. "Of course it's special! Where is it!"

Wanderlust pushed him away hard enough to make Nick fall onto his ass. He unbuttoned his jacket then his shirt, and pulled the red blanket from where he'd kept it pressed against his chest. He offered it to Nick silently. Nick half expected Wanderlust to pull something as he snatched it out of the waiting hand, but he didn't.

He simply rebuttoned shirt and jacket as Nick put it under his own shirt with quiet relief and reverence.

"You miss them?"

"I never knew them."

Jack pressed his hand over his heart where the blanket rested safely once more. "If you ever do that again. I'll kill a god. I swear-" he grit his teeth, took a breath. "Go back to the capitol or one of your precious Danciverses and leave me alone." he gestured at the quiet of Briarwood. "I'm not going to be leaving for a while so stop trying to bait me and just go home."

"Nick-"

Nick pointed at him. "You've got a girlfriend. Ask her." He rubbed his nose. "But thanks for sending those sentries. They make great friends."

"…do you have a girlfriend? A boyfriend?"

"Her name is Maddie." Nick undid his jacket and threw it at Wanderlust, who caught it one handed. "You've got something that smells like me now. Leave me alone!"

Wanderlust held the jacket in one hand as he reached for Nick with the other. Nick backed away, shaking his head. "If you touch me" he promised darkly. "I'll burn you." Mystic Red pressed around him, ready to help him make good on that promise.

Wanderlust made a portal clutching the jacket close. Nick's knees gave out. He fell to the ground with an angry, frustrated moan and didn't get up until Vida came looking for him.

-*-

Nick sat on the edge of his seat during Drakkon and Night Swan’s wedding. His eyes should have been on the wedding, but his eyes were instead on Wanderlust and Sara. They’d both brought plus ones, Nick filling in for Wanderlust’s. Not that it mattered, with Wanderlust and Sara groping and kissing at each other with Nick right there. Having to pretend this didn’t bother him.

Wanderlust’s brother with his own friend smiled apologetically at him from a nearby chair at the reception. “Sorry about them.” He said, sounding it. “Wanderlust’s…”

“Wanderlust?” Nick supplied. “Yea. I’ve met him at a club, he’s a bit of a piece of work.”

“…he didn’t used to be.” Jack offered, weakly. “But thank you for showing up anyway.”

“Mn.” Nick shrugged, before he was asked to get up by one of the sentries. When all the plus ones were moved, Nick looked back at the gasps, stomach dropping. Wanderlust was in shorts, hair in a single braid, and eyes a dark warm brown. Jack was arguing with Drakkon and Night Swan, and Wanderlust’s eyes caught Nick’s.

“I’m sorry” Wanderlust whispered, before turning to his brother and yelling at him to stop. Nick lurched forward only to be stopped by a firm hand on his shoulder. He looked into the eye of the blue haired Cygnus who smiled grimly down at him.

“I wouldn’t get involved if I were you.” Cygnus warned. “Unless you want to join their fate too.”

[bots-and-cons]

Just some thoughts

I'll try to get back to writing too, even though it seems tumblr ate at least one of the asks I got, though it wasn't a request. This is maybe kinda me venting again for the first time in a while. It's not really anything super-duper serious, and I'm mostly just annoyed about a hundred little things. I just love complaining on the internet lol...

If you don't want to read the rant/vent/whatever part, don't read past this

So I was at my mom's for two weeks and came back home like a week ago. The first week I was there, I was alone, since I was house/pet sitting while my mom, her husband, my two youngest siblings +some other relatives went to a cabin in the north. I didn't want to go, hence I was recruited to watch the house and cats. We had a little evening of card and board games with my two younger (but of age) brothers and my best friend, some alcohol was involved and we had in general a good time. I was also having a good time, but afterwards my BFF kept asking me if I was okay and if I was having fun. Since I drank quite a lot, I wasn't masking as much, so even though I was having a good time, there was apparently a bit of a resting bitch face situation going on with me, and by "a bit" I mean I looked like I wanted to strangle someone the whole night. Also I only slept like maybe 7 hours the previous night, which was way too little for me, so that also contributed to me being "annoyed".

It felt kinda bad that when I unmasked, even if unintentionally, it was immediately perceived as negative. It's not like this is the first time this has happened, I was always the weird kid and the whole "resting bitch face" thing has always gotten me a lot of complaints. I mask so much when I'm around other people, even family and my BFF, and when I unmask a bit or stim a little more obviously I get comments like "What are you doing?" or "Why are you acting weird?" Then I go back to trying to mask absolutely everything again and to not show any "weird behavior". It's really frustrating tbh.

Anyway, when my mom and the rest came back from the cabin, I had cleaned most of the downstairs, which is a huge fucking job because of how much stuff they have, they're all kind of hoarders. They came back in the middle of the night and when I came downstairs in the morning the kitchen had already basically exploded, and I was pretty pissed, because wtf? I kinda hoped they would be able to keep it tidy for like more than half an hour, but I apparently that was a stupid thing to expect.

My little sister had a hobbyhorse day camp thing the next week, and her best friend was also at my mom's almost the whole week. I don't like my little sister's BFF, she makes my sister act out and be stupid in general, and the friend is super entitled. Anyway, I was really stressed by Wednesday and I had a bit of a meltdown and went to cry outside while my mom was putting my youngest brother to sleep and my sister and her friend went upstairs. I was sobbing and scratching and hitting myself, because I was really fucking upset and overwhelmed. I didn't tell my mom about this, because she's stressed enough already, and I don't want to add to it.

I feel like my mom is basically a single mom most of the time, because her husband is away so much, be it because of work or because he goes to Germany for two weeks to fucking car shows. While my mom has to manage two kids alone, take my youngest brother to his summer club and my sister and her friend to their camp. It might not sound like that much, but there's a lot more I don't feel like explaining. My youngest brother is autistic and has ADHD and my mom has ADHD too, so he alone is a lot for my mom to manage. I was there for most of the time while my mom's husband was away, so she was really grateful for that. When July starts, her husband leaves for another leisure trip, and my mom has to work and figure something out for my youngest siblings, because the summer club thing ended, and they're too young to be left alone at home. My little sister can manage alone while my mom works, but I feel like she really shouldn't have to, but my sister and youngest brother CANNOT be left alone together for more than like an hour. (My youngest brother is 7 and my sister is almost 10.)

My mom can manage, but it's hard, and she doesn't get to take trips like that EVER. It's not that her husband doesn't let her, but he's very good at the whole "weaponized incompetence" thing, and I feel like my mom just feels better when she knows there's someone who's actually taking care of the kids. If she goes somewhere it's always a family trip or max one night for her alone. I feel bad for her and I try to help, but I can't really handle the kids and the mess well, so I can't be there all or even most of the time.

Again, I'm doing okay, just pretty tired. Thanks if you read, I appreaciate it :D

[lostsbooks]

Siblings and Secrets (Wattpad|Ao3)

━━━━━━━━ ✠ ━━━━━━━━

It was my wing that woke me up, prickles of discomfort stretching from the old wound. Trying to ignore it, I shifted in bed, hoping I'd manage to get comfortable and fall back asleep. None of it was working. My eyes adjusted to the darkness, and upon looking over at the alarm clock, I groaned. Five thirty AM, Being awake this early was rarely worth the exhaustion it caused once the lack of sleep built up too much. Burying my face back into my pillow, I tried to forget the discomfort and pain, hoping it might help. I was close to falling asleep again when I heard a noise from next door, Illinois' room. Strange, when did he get here? I thought he had plans.

I sat up, listening through the darkness, I could hear him talking through the wall. It was always quietest at dad's house at night, but usually someone downstairs was loud enough to drown out whispers. But not today. It was more than a bit eerie to have the house so silent. Didn't feel natural somehow. I sighed and got up, it didn't feel right to eavesdrop. The chances of falling asleep again now were low, better to make sure my brother was alright rather than stare at the ceiling for another few hours. A faint light was creeping out from under the door that connected our two rooms. After knocking, Illinois' faint talking stopped. a second or two later, I opened the door. "Michi?" he said, his expression seemed blank, like he was still processing something. "I didn't know you were around." I smiled weakly, and shrugged "Was going to stay at the camp but a storm hit. it's cold, I don't have to pay for warmth here. Mind if I come in? I thought you said you were going somewhere." He smiled faintly, "Sure. Wasn't really doing anything anyway." he walked back over to his pet's tank, to which the little shelled reptile swam back up to the surface, begging for food it definitely didn't need, "and the trip finished early." "Ah too bad," I thought for a moment, then looked at him, vaguely amused. "But you talk to the turtle first, and not me? I'm hurt. I thought you liked me more than that." "You heard me?" he said, a flicker of fear in his voice. "A bit.” He let out a dry, shaky laugh, "Damn, I always forget how good your hearing is. I thought I was being sneaky." "No worries it wasn't much, Just something about how that thing," I motioned toward the turtle's tank on his desk, "Is the, and I quote, "Only one who understands you.'"

Illinois gasped, exaggerating his reaction, and put his hand on the glass, like he was protecting it from my words, "How dare you call her a thing, I'm insulted on her behalf! I'll have you know that she is a very good listener. Lot better than some people I know at least." he said pointedly. "Hey I listen! The issue is you don't talk." He rolled his eyes and turned his back to me, "So, what are you doing up?" I smiled sheepishly and raised the amputated wing, "Wasn't feeling right, it's fine though." "I think I have a heatpad- somewhere, those help, right?" His voice sounded a bit too focused on me, I noted that he was shaking slightly as well. "No I'm good," I sighed and moved to sit down at his chair, "But you seem a little pale. Something troubling you?" The anxiety and tension hidden in his smile was obvious when he turned to look at me, "No! Everything's great. Couldn't be better.” my heart sank a little at that. He could be a horrible liar. "You sure? I can stay and talk with you if you wan-" "No!" he said sharply, "Nope! I'm good. Thanks anyway though." I reached for a pillow nearby on the floor, then threw it at him, more than a bit annoyed. "I might be tired but I can still tell when you're lying" Dodging it, he sat down on his bed, across from me, "I doubt that." "Oh really I-" my ear caught a sudden sharp noise, causing me to flinch, "What was that?" "What was what?" Illinois asked, suddenly alert, A lot more awake than he had been a few seconds ago. I frowned slightly, "I swear I heard something. But it's gone." Illinois looked nervous, rubbing one of his hands slightly, "What was it like?" "A little beep. You know- like a watch or something. But smaller?" I said after a while, I closed my eyes, trying to focus on where it might have come from, but the only audible noise now was the turtle and equipment. "Must've been the smoke alarm." Illinois decided quickly, but still seemed uncomfortable. "Hmm. Maybe. I don't think they're supposed to do that thoug-'' he cut me off. "I'll check it tomorrow, It's fine for tonight. You should really get back to your room." I smiled slightly, deciding then that I'd have to take him for a proper break sometime soon, camping always seemed to cheer him up a little, "Aw! but I'm having such a nice conversation? You really want me to leave now?" The tension seemed to dissipate a little and the first genuine smile that night appeared on his face, "Mitch, I appreciate it, But I'd like to be alone right now. You don't need to be so worried, I can handle myself." "You're my little brother, I'm always worried-" "Always, always?" he asked, raising an eyebrow skeptically "Okay maybe not so much when you're being a little shit." I admitted, standing up and heading back towards my room, "But other than that- yeah. I hear you pacing your room sometimes, It's not fun you know, I'm here when you need me."

I wish you'd talk to me now, I wanted to say, but kept that part quiet. "Again, thank you. but goodnight." he said, closing the door on me, cutting off the light from his room. a second later I heard the sharp, distinctive click of the door locking, and a heavy sigh of relief. My heart sank a little lower at that. Feeling discouraged I settled back on my bed, wrapped a quilt over myself. Illinois was hiding something, I could tell that much. I wished I could just go out and ask what was happening, why he'd been so scared and nervous lately. His habit of distancing himself was scary, and it hurt. What happened to him to make him change so much? I wished I could have the old person I knew back, and not this hollowed out shell that I saw now. Closing my eyes I tried to block out the new worries and fear. but one thing was for sure, I definitely wasn't going to get any more sleep tonight.

[setagaya-division]

ARB Birthday Special: Yorii Sakuma

~~ March 14th ~~

"Music is the thousandth of a millisecond between one note and another; how you get from one to the other - that's where the music is."

Login Lines:

*Yawns* "That was a good night's sleep... I wonder if Elliot cooked breakfast. ...Huh? What... is this?! A stack of pancakes with sprinkles and whipped cream? What's all this about? ...And what's with the lit candle? There's a note under the plate. It says, 'Happy birthday, Yorii!' ...It's my birthday?!"

"...Oh my god! It is my birthday today! Awesome! That means today is officially all about me! ...Well, everyday is all about me, but still! Now, I can do all the things I want to do with no repercussions!"

Voice Lines:

"I received a ton of letters and text messages from my fans wishing me a 'happy birthday'! My cell phone keeps buzzing me cause of all of the messages I'm getting on PROFILE. Not that I'm complaining, of course!"

"But still... hard to believe I'm 16. It feels weird. Not in a bad way, but just weird-weird, cause I don't feel 16. ...What's even weirder is that I haven't even known Mina or Elliot that long..."

"Kanra-chan called to wish me a 'happy birthday!' That just totally made my day! I'm so happy right now! Just knowing she went out of her way to do that..."

"...kind of ironic that she could do that, but my own "mother" and creator couldn't bother. Peh, what am I saying? Why would she waste her time? After all, compared to my dear older brother who my mom pays more attention to than any other of her precious "children" I'm not... perfect."

"Mina! Thanks a lot, big sis! I'm glad you're here too! I know our initial meeting wasn't the... best way to start a relationship. ...B-but, let's not drudge up old stuff! Today's a happy day! ...Aww, thanks, big sis! I care for you too!"

"So, what did you get me for my birthday?! What's this? A... star projector that doubles as a Bluetooth speaker? This is awesome, Mina! I'm definitely going to use this thing tonight when I go to sleep! I can't wait to fall asleep to music playing while looking at the stars! Thanks again, Big Sis!"

"Elliot! Thanks a lot, Big Bro! And thanks for the pancakes this morning! Those things were delicious! You should think about making those everyday! ...Aww, why not? Special occasion? Bah, who needs a special occasion when sweet stuff is involved? ...Bah, you're a party pooper, big bro. ...Wah! No! Don't take my gift back, I'm sorry! I didn't mean it, really! ...Sheesh, big bro. Where's all this confidence at when you're at school, huh?"

"So... what did you give me? A... humidifier? ...For sore throats and such? ...Wow, I'm surprised you remember that, bro. That was months ago when I mentioned that! But still, thanks for this bro! I'll definitely use it when I can!"

Mina Lines:

"Happy birthday, Yorii-kun. I'm glad to see you've reached the age of 16, which is a shock in, and of, itself. ...Well, considering the trouble you get into, I'm not wrong for saying that. ...Our initial meeting? You mean when you hypnotized me and tried to get to serve you? Yes, you're right. That wasn't an ideal way to start a relationship. *Sighs* No matter how much you annoy me, I still care for you, Yorii."

"Anyway, here is your birthday gift. I saw this in a store window one night, and I'd thought you might like it. Yes, considering how much you love music and the sound of your own voice, I knew it was a smart decision to make to get it. ...You're welcome. Just don't disturb me or Elliot with your music, okay?"

Elliot Lines:

"Happy birthday, Yorii! I'm glad you liked the pancakes! I saw the recipe on the Internet and decided to make them. ...No, we cannot have them everyday. For one, eating all that sugar isn't healthy. Plus, they're only for special occasions. ...The answer is still 'no', Yorii. ...If you're going to be this way, I can always return this gift I bought you. ...That's better. And please don't mention school right now, please."

"So, you mentioned a few months earlier that your throat was hurting from all of the singing you had to do. So, I looked online and heard that using a humidifier can now only clear a sore throat, but make it easier for you to sleep, so I bought you one. I'm glad you like it, Yorii. Use it well!"

[thealiencat3]

Jealousy~ Yandere Jason Todd / Red Hood x Oc

Oc: Luna Smith

Summary: Luna liked Jason for many years. At last she got tired and moved on with non other than Tim. Her classmate. Jason's isn't okay with this~

She was Tim's classmate and also bestfriend. She met Jason through him. She didn't know why, found him interesting. She doesn't know much about him except he's being Tim's big brother and a book nerd. His front hair was white. She never knew the reason. She just liked him. He was handsome, strong, confident and tough. Yes he was mean and used a lot of dirty words, it was fine with her. After gathering so much of courage, she finally confessed him. You can imagine his reply," Wtf!! I don't date kids. Specially short girls". 'short girls' was what he never wanted to date. But she was one of them. She tried to put on heels and did everything she could and confessed him again and again but everytime, he made a new excuse to reject the blonde girl. Once it was her having straight hair, she curled it. Once, he's not into blondes and liking red hair, she dyed. Once, disliking her blue outfits which gives him Disney vibes , she unwillingly changed to yellow clothes. She stopped feeling like herself. After so many tries, yes she got tired. She stopped meeting him. She's now herself again. She was attractive for Tim. Very cute . So, he asked her out. " Hi Luna, Are you free Saturday night?" He asked. The book nerd girl looked at him with her large , sparkly eyes. Which made his heart skip a beat. "Yes" she replied. "So , I have got two movie tickets" he smiled. " Would you like to come with me?" She smiled. " Sure". "So we're on a date ?" He asked. "Yes" she replied.

Jason was gone in a long mission with Starfire and Duke. It was the right time to ask her out. She wouldn't be distracted. But unfortunately, Jason came back on Saturday afternoon. That pissed Tim off. Well, he slept all day instead of creating a mess around the house. In evening, she arrived at his house as her parents were away. She was wearing a blue dress, blue clip, white heels and silver necklace. "You're looking cute" Tim complemented. "Thanks Tim" she smiled at him, making him blush. "Whoahhh!! Our Timmy got a date" Casandra exclaimed. "And with Jay's girl" she teased. "Shut up" Tim got annoyed. " I'm not Jason's girl Cass" she laughed. Oops, wrong timing. Jason was just passing by and he overhead the conversation. "YOU F****** GOT A DATE LUNA??" he shouted. She didn't want to see him. At least not before her first date. She wasn't expecting this response either. Tim didn't want to see him at this moment too. "Yeah. We're dating Jason" Tim replied. "HUH?? YOU?? W**!! SHE'S DATING SOMEONE LIKE YOU??" Yeah. He's actually creating a mess now at the end moment. "What's wrong about him Jay?" She asked. He took a glance at her short frame. She was honestly, SO F****** CUTE!! Jason didn't take his eyes off her for a moment. Studying her carefully. Like the first edition of his 'Pride and Prejudice' he just finished a weak ago. He's maybe, trying to read the whole book again. Only in one minute. "WHAT'S WRONG?? HE'S A NERD" he shouted . She couldn't believe he's calling his own brother 'a nerd'. "I like him Jay. He's my bestfriend and boyfriend now". She replied. She was getting annoyed. She held Tim's hand. "We're late Timmy. We'll miss the movie" she said and dragged him out with her. "YOU GAVE THIS RAT A NICKNAME HOW DA..." Cassandra covered his mouth as he followed them out. "Don't worry Luna. He's just tired because of the trip. He'll be okay once he sleeps. You two enjoy" she smiled and waved at them. She gave him a good scold after they left.

"Sorry for the drama Luna. You know how Jason is" Tim apologized. "It's okay Tim .he must be tired" she tried to smile. After the movie, Tim had another surprise for her. "You actually got tickets for Dove Cameron's concert??" She exclaimed. Tim winked which made her blush. He's a way better than Jason Peter Todd. How could she not realise it before?? Otherwise, she would've made the first move.

She couldn't believe it was real. She was actually in a concert. Her parents never allowed her to went to a concert. She was smiling, dancing with Tim and singing along the crowd. Until, Tim felt something wrong with his stomach. 'those popcorns' he thought. "Uhh... Luna" he called her name. "Yes?" " Umm... Actually.... I need to use the toi..let" he said the last word with shame. Though he was the most shameless person around her, not today, it was a date. She laughed. "I think popcorns are doing their work. I'll wait for you". Tim was gone. He wondered, if he actually ate too much?? He felt suspicious. He pulled out his phone to check on her. But he got a message from Jason instead.

"JASON: How was my surprise??"

"WHAT THE HELL!!" He shouted. Only to receive a scolding from someone. "It's a public place. Stop cursing" . He apologized.

while , Luna was enjoying on her own. She almost forgot about Tim. It was dark and everybody were dancing and singing with flashlights on. She was too. Untill someone tightly grabbed her arm and pulled her into a deep, passionate kiss. She kissed back. She was confused because the guy felt a way too taller and different. It was her first kiss. 'when did Tim became so tall?' she thought. The guy was muscular too. The kiss was becoming more and more forceful and her lips started hurting. Then he pulled away. Luna's eyes widened as she saw who it was. JASON TODD. her old crush. He was smirking at her. "JASON!!??" "It's Jay~" he corrected as he pulled her to him. "How about dancing with me? Your boyfriend is nowhere to be found" he whispered in her ear, sending shivers down her spine. "why don't you try me?" He pinned her to him and forced her to dance. The background music ,'Boyfriend' was matching with them.

she tried to walk away from him as faster as she could. At first, he rejected her again and again and now, he not only ruined her date with Tim but also he stole her first kiss. She can't believe he did this with his own brother. As they walked out, he lift her like a feather and put her on his shoulder. "Put me down JASON" she screamed. "It's Jay" . He didn't listen to her. He took her to a nearby dark corner and put her down. "Are you serious!!??" She said angrily. "Hah of course. I can't see you dating a nerd" he replied. " He's your brother!!" She finally raised voice on someone first time in her life. " What you didn't like me kissing you?? I thought you liked me Luna" he said. "I was tired Jason. I was tired of getting rejected" she said. "Well let me tell you something. Do you know everything about Tim?" He asked. " What do you mean?" She asked. " Well , I don't think Tim told you yet". "Yet what?" She asked. " Well, Tim is Red Robin" . Her eyes widened. "Are you kidding me? I'm not in a mood". He chuckled. "Well this is the truth Luna. Bruce is Batman, Dick is Nightwing , Damian is Robin and I'm Red Hood" he said. "Have you ever wondered, where Tim disappears suddenly? Hmm??" No it can't be. Tim never hid anything from me. "it doesn't make any sense. Timmy can never hide anything from me" . He got angry. He used one of his hands to grab both of her wrists and pinned her against a wall while he used his other hand to grab her waist. "Don't ever try to use his nickname on my face." He warned in a dark tone. Then he suddenly kissed het neck, biting her. "Jason~~" she tried to scream but moaned instead. "Hmm you're liking it?" He smirked and continued his work. After few moments, he pulled away, admiring the mark he made. "Beautiful" he smirked. He let go of her only to have a slap mark on his face the next moment. "JASON!!! ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?? DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT HAVE YOU DONE??" she yelled. "BETTER!! AT LEAST THAT PIECE OF SH*T WILL REMEMBER WHO YOU BELONG TO!!" he yelled back. "I HATE YOU JASON TODD" she yelled, tears rolling down. "WHAT THE HELL LUNA!!" ..." STOP IT JASON!!" a male voice said. It was Tim. "Huh?? You?? Was that dose too low??" 'what dose??' Luna felt disgust in her stomach. "LEAVE HER ALONE!! YOU'RE TOO MUCH JASON" . "Well that's good. now tell your little girlfriend, .... Oh I forgot, my little girlfriend your true identity" he said pointing a gun on him . "JASON!!..." "DO IT!!!" Tim sighed. "Yes. I'm Red Robin. I'm sorry Luna". She couldn't believe it. Tim lied all the time. "See? I told you" Jason laughed. Tim looked down. "So Luna, you're coming with me or do you want me to do something else??" "Jason stop!!" "It's Jay to you. Remember it". "THAT'S ENOUGH OF YOU. JASON!!" "YOU LITTLE**** WANT TO FIGHT ME??" "YEAH!! COME ON RED HOOD". She didn't know what was happening. She got to know her bestfriend and her old crush are Red Robin and Red Hood. She just went on a peaceful date. But both of them looks like they're going to kill each other. She felt dizzy due to emotional stress. Since, she has hypertension due to her mother's condition during her pregnancy, doctor told her not to take too much stress. But now, she couldn't help it. Soon, everything seemed blurry . Shs tried to call Jason as he was the last person she saw before everything went black.

she opened her eyes and found herself in an apartment. way too different than her big house. the room had lots of books like hers but not her piano but weapons. She soon realised, it was Jason's room. "Good morning" she heard Tim calling her. A tray in his hands. "Tim?" He smiled sadly. He put the tray on the bed. "Yeah. It's better for you if you call me Tim. Not Timmy" he said. "Why?" She asked. "I'm sorry. You collapsed because of high blood pressure last night. It was all because of us". She didn't say anything. Just smelled the food. "You like it? Why don't you taste?" She did. It was amazing. "Is it good?" He asked. She nodded. "Well, Jason cooked if " . Jason? She never knew he's such a good cook. "Luna" Tim sighed and began," we discussed it last night and I think, leaving you with Jason would be much better. You liked him for a long time right?" He looked down. "Tim..." "Yeah we've discussed it. Now you're my girlfriend and no 'buts'. Tim will leave now" Jason went out of the kitchen. He only had his trousers on. She could finally see his scars. Scars of his sufferings. "Bye Luna. Hope you forgive me" Tim said and got up. "let him go. We'll spend time together" Jason said.

after Tim left, Jason took the spoon and fed her himself. "Why?" She asked while chewing the food. "I'm sorry for rejecting you. I never realised what I was doing." "I thought you're not into short girls" "I was kidding silly. Can't you see?? Or you want me to show you the mirror??" She shook her head. "Good girl. I love you"~

[tetsunabouquet]

Heir To The Lands Chapter 14

Arriving Before The Entrance Masterpost

Kit and Ty had been preparing themselves for their travel to Faerie. They had tracked down the Tunnel of Dewshine, a mystical cavern entrace that only opened itself on the 3rd rainy day of the month. The tunnel system led somewhere deep under the North Sea, and there were technically three caverns leading to the Tunnel of Dewshine, one located just outside of Edingburgh, one on the Dutch island Schiermonnikoog and one near Mandal in Norway. There had been a fourth entrance in Denmark, but it had been wrecked by mundane construction sites a couple of deacdes ago. Not that the Faeries had let it happen without retaliation, almost every constructive worker had been cursed with a lifetime of sickness, and the project eventually got a lot of heat from the Danish government of having been suspected to have been working with dangerous chemicals, as to explain the reason why everyone got sick. Kit and Ty had created a big sack of everything they'd need, and Ty was annoyed Kit had packed too much. "This travel is going to be long. We need to travel more lightly." Ty stated. "If it were just the two of us, I'd agree. But I have a feeling Dru won't accept getting left out, which is why I texted her to find a way to get here." Ty blinked in surprise, that Kit had just included his sister like that. He didn't knew wether he should be feeling happy Kit was so sweet to Dru, jealous of their closeness or worried about losing yet another sister in conflict. Ty pursed his lips, deciding to remain silent until he knew what to say. But one thing he could say to himself, at least, and that was how happy he was to have Kit back by his side, being friends once more.

Dru bit her lip as she stalked around the abandoned hallways. It was night, and everyone had gone to sleep. She didn't wanted to abandon everyone without saying a word, she left a detailed letter to Thais, explaining where she was going and what she was doing. Thais would cover up for her, Dru knew she would. Yet, she felt guilty for slipping out in the middle of the night like this. "You know, I wish Tavi was wrong, but clearly she was onto something." Dru nearly jumped when she heard Zeynep's voice out of nowhere, and saw the tiny girl sitting in a corner. Dru's witchlight reflected on the thick glasses of Zeynep's pair, hiding Zeynep's eyes underneath the bright sheen. "Look, tell Tavi to keep her nose out of my bussiness and pretend you haven't seen me." "Dru, I know most people see us as intimidating and don't actually really know us so heads up, Tomas is right now on cloud 9 with Thais. Your brother is autistic like Tavi, right? You probably know how they like to think in doom scenarios. Tavi went over any potential scenario that could destroy their happiness and she's made it her mission to prevent every single one of them. However, because she doesn't wants to burn any bridges with Thais' friends, I am on look-out. " Dru sighed. Were all autistic people detectives? "Alright, I really have to go Zeynep, it's important. Like, Clave investigation important?" "Important enough to send a training Shadowhunter?" "It has to do with my family, trust me, please." Zeynep pursed her lips. "I'd like to, but trusting kids going behind the backs of the Clave has gotten lots of people killed, including your sister. Know what you're getting everyone into." Zeynep emphasized before she disappeared into the directions of the bedrooms. Dru swallowed, and with a heavy heart she left for the lake, where a warlock of little important who wouldn't rat her off, was waiting with a Portal. It was time to go back to the UK.

Ty and Kit had been waiting for almost an hour until they saw Dru pop up. She could see her brother was tense, and Kit was trying very hard not to look like they had spent most of the time in awkward silence. "Are you ready to enter Faerie?" Kit asked. Dru nodded, and much to her surprise, Ty took her hand as he led her into the glittering curtain of raindroplets and cobwebs, into the Tunnel of Dewshine. Kit followed after, and the mundane world behind them as they knew, vanished from sight in the luminous cave.

[silverwings22]

Caught in the Crosshairs: Chapter 43: Dead Man Walking- Jelly Roll

Series warnings: Smut, mind control, canon typical violence, childhood trauma, language, chronic illness

Chapter Warnings: racism against clones, depression, murder, Crosshair being a little shit

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32 rotations. 32 days and nights mostly in the rain, on a platform on Kamino. At least he'd had water.

Crosshair had been livid the entire time, cursing every name on his former squad for leaving him there… except the Jedi. Every time he started to try to talk himself into hating her, he heard her voice. 

You can always come home, Crosshair. 

But he didn't want to come home. He'd chosen the Empire, chosen to be her enemy even when Hunter told him directly that none of them were his. So why, in the weeks following his rescue from the platform where he'd been confined to his bunk to recover, did he keep thinking of her? 

The loud, annoying alarm woke him, like every morning, and he groaned faintly when he sat up. He was recovered, cleared for duty as of yesterday, but he still felt like garbage. She was right. When you're used to having someone in bed with you, sleeping alone is garbage. When had she told him that? When she was stabbed by Ventress, the day he'd snuck into the Temple to see her… the first time he'd told her he-

That's over now. Stop it. 

He got up and headed for the mess hall for breakfast, telling himself it didn't matter. He didn't love her anymore. He couldn't, not when she was a traitor. Even if he did occasionally hear snippets of her voice when he was tired. 

He sat down with his tray at the table with two regs, giving them a cursory glance. Whatever they'd been talking about died in the air, and they both just got up and moved a table over. He was used to it, the rejection from regs. He'd lived with it all his life, but… he'd always had his brothers back then. Tech would huff and point out the average IQ of the table was increased by their absence. Echo would roll his eyes and mutter under his breath that 99 would have been ashamed, while Wrecker asked too loudly why they'd want to hang out with regs anyway. Hunter would just smile a little, shaking his head like it didn't bother him. Maybe it didn't, Hunter had always looked more like a reg before the hair and tattoo. Miria would have just slid a little closer to Crosshair, because she always knew when he was upset, and put her little hand on his knee. He could practically hear her voice. "It's alright, my darling. They just can't see that shining star in you, and it's their loss."

"CT-9904 please report to Vice-Admiral Rampart's office immediately." 

Crosshair glanced up at the PA speaker. Ugh… what did that rat faced bastard want now? He got up and left his tray behind. The regs had killed his appetite anyway.��

Rampart's office looked like a monument to his ego, polished and pristine. "CT-9904. I see you've been medically cleared. How long were you on that Kaminoan platform?"

"32 rotations." Crosshair drawled. Something about the use of his CT number bugged him today. It shouldn't have, everyone here used it. But… he had the strangest desperate desire to hear his name. The name she always said, the name she'd asked him for three years ago without even wanting to hear the number. 

He was thinking too much about her again. 

"Left for dead and you still returned. Why?"

"I'm a soldier of the Empire."

The answer seemed to please Rampart. "Your loyalty is to be commended. I have a mission for you."

"What squad will I be leading?" 

Rampart snorted, and it felt knee a slap in the face. "You're not ready to play Commander again. Your new Commander will handle it. Report to the War Memorial at 0900." 

Crosshair froze, fists clenching. Back to taking orders instead of giving them… what the hell?! What did Rampart know… had he somehow found out that Crosshair lied about the Batch being dead? If he had, why was he sending him on a mission instead of executing him? 

"You're dismissed."

Crosshair stiffly nodded and headed back to his bunkroom to get his armor. What had he done wrong? 

"He knows, you know. He's trying to decide if you lied in purpose, or if you didn't know."

Crosshair jumped, reaching for his weapons as the door shut behind him and a voice rang out. 

Standing behind the door was a girl… a teenager by the look of it. She was leaning against the wall with a foot up, arms crossed casually. 

Crosshair eyed her. She was dressed in armor, similar to a clones but of a different metal he wasn't familiar with. It was painted gold and purple, with a fin on the left paldron. "Aren't you a little young to be a soldier?"

"Nah. I'm good for it." She chuckled. She had a strange accent, curling at the vowels like Coruscanti upper-class and staccato on the consonants like a Mandalorian soldier. "And I'm older than you are right now."

He huffed. "Who the hell are you, and how'd you get in here?"

"I'm Mayrin. You'll know me." She gave him a crooked smile. "And trust me. I can always find you. My ba'vodu made me a damn good tracker, and you don't really cover your tracks. I guess a ram'ser doesn't really need to, but still."

"You speak Mando’a." Crosshair started putting on his armor quickly, weirded out by her presence but sure she wasn't a threat."

"I'm Mandalorian. Funny how that works." She tucked a curl of her messy silver hair behind her ear. She wore it short, around her chin and framing a heart-shaped face and large lavender eyes. A natural tan just seemed to make them more striking. "On both sides, if you wanna get real technical. My dad's related to Manda'lor Jaster Mereel. Mom's a part of Clan Vizla."

"Huh. Bloodline." Crosshair frowned. "What are you hunting me down for?"

"Personal interest. I'm mostly just wondering how long it's gonna take you to get your head out of your shebs." She smirked. "Empire isn't doing you too many favors here, are they? Left you on that platform over a standard month, then demoted you?"

"The Empire wasn't the one that left me out there." Crosshair hissed.

"And I suppose you think it's Clone Force 99's fault?" She adjusted her stance, cocking a hip. She oozed attitude, more than any Mandalorian he'd ever met. It was at odds with the cute face. 

"They're dead." He said sharply

"Yeah right. Tell Command what you want, but you can't lie to me."

His scowl darkened. "What the fuck do you want from me?" He hissed. If this kid knew he'd lied, who else knew? He'd be up for the firing squad if it leaked. 

"Easy, tough guy. Your secret's safe with me." Mayrin laughed. "If you go down, so do I. It's not exactly in my best interests."

"So what do you want, then? I don't have anything worth blackmailing me over."

"I wouldn't call it blackmail." Mayrin shrugged. "But what I want is your company. I'll turn up whenever, and you're going to talk to me."

"And if I refuse?" Crosshair growled.

"You won't. You're lonely." Mayrin smirked. 

Crosshair huffed, securing his rifle and glancing at the chrono. He had fifteen minutes to get to the memorial. "Don't expect much conversation."

"I wouldn't dare. But tell me something?"

"Hm?" He shoved a toothpick in his mouth. 

"Why'd you lie?"

Crosshair froze. Why wouldn't be lie? The Empire would never stop hunting them if he didn't. They'd never be free or safe or- no. He wasn't supposed to care about that. "So I could stop chasing them and get on with my damn life." He finally muttered savagely and walked out the door. 

She followed him out, a half step behind. When they got to the memorial, he waited with his helmet tucked under his arm while she inspected the wall of names. "None of these are clone names." She finally said. "They all have first and last."

"What's it matter?" He shrugged. 

"Doesn't seem fair, does it? You clones did most of the fighting. Shouldn't you be remembered too?

Crosshair paused, glancing back at the rows and rows of names. All fallen soldiers, people who'd faced the same kind of hell he had and died for it. "Memorials are for the living, not the dead. Who'd bother to remember us?" He finally said bitterly.

"Your brothers." Mayrin whispered, touching the wall. 

"Crosshair." The sniper stiffened and turned as a reg Commander walked up. The man was in gray and white armor, a mourning color. Crosshair didn't recognize him until the helmet came up, revealing a scar across his left temple.

"Commander Cody. I didn't recognize you."

"A lot has changed." Cody agreed. "It's good to see you. I heard the rest of your team went rogue after Order 66 went out."

"Are you surprised?"

"Not really. Your squad was different by design." Cody said mildly. Crosshair couldn't help but think about the two regs in the mess hall, and his jaw tightened. 

"Regs have gone AWOL too."

Cody nodded. "I've heard rumors that more and more clones are… questioning the order."

"We're loyal to each other, not some Empire."

"You never even tried to come back. We'd have taken ya…"

"Incorrect. Locating you has always been the primary objective."

"There's nowhere else to go, Crosshair."

His brother's voices called through time and space, memories tinged sour by the aftermath of their escape. Mayrin was right, he was lonely. He missed the four clones, and the brave little woman whose last words haunted him constantly. 

"You can always come home."

He shoved the feeling down viciously, before it turned him into a treasonous bastard like her. "Then they're traitors. Like the Jedi."

Cody gave him a sideways glance, an unreadable expression in his eyes. Crosshair glanced over his shoulder to see what Mayrin made of the conversation, to display his resolve in case the kid thought his indiscretion about the Batch's survival was more than he'd claimed. But she was gone, vanished like she'd never been there at all. 

He frowned but didn't comment on it, turning to follow Cody to the transport. He was already regretting not grabbing the rest of his breakfast off his tray… he had a headache coming on.

Scrapping clankers felt good. It felt familiar, even if he wasn't with his old unit. Cody was competent and let Crosshair do his thing without micromanagement, which the sniper appreciated. He'd already taken out a tank with a shot directly up the barrel, a shot he was proud of. 

Top that, Wrecker. The thought gave him pause as he and Cody fought their way up a spiral staircase crawling with super commando droids. Wrecker wouldn't see that shot. None of the Batch would. They'd have been impressed, joked about it later, and Miria would have given him that doe-eyed look she reserved just for him when she whispered "Absolutely impeccable, my darling."

Maybe her memory was trying to kill him for revenge after what he'd said to her on Kamino, because the momentary distraction had him caught by the throat. His helmet was wrenched off, the sniper coughing for air as he gritted out the only name available to possibly save him today. Not his squad, to his dazed regret. He wouldn't have had to call out, if they'd been here. They always watched each other's backs… "Cody!"

The Commander turned and threw his knife through the droids head, sending it and Crosshair collapsing into the stone steps. "You okay?"

Crosshair coughed, checking his bruising throat. "Yeah. Thanks."

"Hang tight. I'll take out the tactical droid."

Crosshair handed him a mirrored puck from his hip. "I can make the shot from here. Just get me a line of sight."

Cody nodded, glancing back at another super commando approaching. "Where do you need the puck?"

"Just throw it!"

"How far?"

"As far as you can!" Crosshair hissed. Goddamn it, he wasn't used to this much talking on a mission. He and the Batch moved in sync, years of training making most communication just nods of a helmet. Cody was quick, probably the only reg he actually respected, but he wasn't his team. 

But he followed suggestions well, the hurled the puck as hard as he could. Crosshair lined up, took a breath, and fired. 

Direct shot to the tactical droid's head. "Nice throw." He muttered as Cody helped him up. 

"Nice shot." 

They walked into the belltower, guns up and ready. Over the comms, another clone was telling Cody the droids were scrapped. "Good. Fan out, find Grotton."

"There's no need." A female voice huffed from the darkness, a tall and short-haired woman stepping out with the Imperial governor in a choke hold. She had a blaster to his temple.

"Do something!" Grotton snarled. He had a high voice, suitable to a sniveling coward. 

"Easy, ma'am. Let's talk about this." Cody said calmly. "Let the governor go."

"I'm Tawni Ames. The rightful governor of Dexis. As soon as the Empire acknowledges this, Grotton and his men will be released."

"We have Imperial orders. We're not here to debate politics." Cody didn't like holding a gun on this woman. He knew she was trying to do what she thought was best. So was he. 

"If you were, you'd see how unjust your actions are." Tawni shook her head. 

"The Empire is trying to establish peace and order." Cody coaxed.

Tawni's eyes darkened. "I used to believe in peace… I even helped charter a bill with Republic and Separatist alike, that would have ended the war. But your Chancellor rejected it! That's when I knew that peace was never an option."

Cody had a snap decision to make, and years under General Obi-wan "The Great Negotiator" Kenobi's leadership. He took his helmet off and set it and his gun on the ground. "It's an option now. Let him go, and we'll negotiate for a peaceful resolution. We've both lived through one war, let's not start another." He waved for Crosshair to lower his weapon. "Do this for your people."

Crosshair slowly lowered his rifle, watching Cody from his peripheral. The Commander had his hands up, voice calm and composed. A natural negotiator.

"Where'd you learn to talk people down like that, baby girl?" Miria was curled up in his arms in their bunk, bandaging a cut on his forearm. She'd managed to talk them out of getting killed by a group of dugs on Malastare, after an ill-fated double cross by a fuel baron. He'd still caught a knife intended for her, but it was a small price to pay. 

"Fifty crechelings demanding a later bedtime will teach you a lot." She laughed, bringing his palm up to kiss it. "Obi-wan asked me to teach him, when he took Anakin as a padawan. My, that boy loves to argue."

"You're pretty good at it."

"The trick is to know what someone cares about. With little ones, it's easy. If they want to stay up late, you remind them that they'll be tired the next day and not have fun in the lesson they're looking forward to. Adults are harder, because what they care for is more complex. Those dugs were double crossing us for credits, but it's not money they love. It's their families they're providing for. Once I reminded them that their actions put those same families in danger of reprisal, they wanted to put an end to the standoff."

"How would you negotiate with me?" He smirked, pulling her closer.

"You're proud and independent, love. But you care about your brothers. And me. If you were doing something that endangered us, I'd only have to remind you." She said sincerely. 

"I was hoping you'd take your shirt off. That's more entertaining."

Miria giggled. "I suppose that might work too."

Crosshair twitched when Tawni let Grotton go. The man scrambled to Cody, eyes wide. "Well done. Now execute her!"

Cody looked stunned. "Sir, I promised a peaceful resolution-"

"You did. I didn't. Now execute her!"

Tawni sighed, resignation printed on her tired and war-weary face. "So much for peace."

Grotton was getting heated, voice raised as he threatened Cody over disobedience. Crosshair had no one left to protect but the former Marshall Commander, and the idea of Cody catching a brutal punishment turned his stomach. So he took the shot instead, and Tawni Ames slumped to the floor with a death rattle. 

Cody didn't look him in the eye as Grotton kept talking. "Put her body in the square. Let it be a warning to the rest of them."

Crosshair watched Cody’s shoulders slump, fingers twitching. He could reach out, pat his arm and tell him he'd tried at least… but he couldn't make himself do it. Instead he just turned to follow Grotton out of the belltower. They'd done what they had to do. They had their orders.

Good soldiers follow orders. 

Crosshair didn't know why he'd come back to the memorial. Maybe he was hoping to see Mayrin again, to have someone to tell his story to. It wasn't like there was a name on this wall he'd care about… the only names he'd have cared about would never be memorialized by the Empire. Not after what they'd done. 

Cody stepped up beside him, looking at the wall in silence for a while. He looked… troubled, to say the least. "This new Empire." He finally murmured. "Do you think we're making the galaxy better?"

"We're soldiers. We do what needs to be done." Crosshair drawled. 

Cody looked at the helmet in his hands. "Do you know what makes us different from battle droids? We make our own choices… and we have to live with them." He picked up his kit and turned, leaving Crosshair standing alone once again as he walked away. There was something… permanent feeling about the way he marched. Crosshair couldn't understand it, Cody was a hard-lined soldier from head to toe. The last person he'd expected to doubt anything. 

He shook his head. Cody wouldn't turn traitor. He wasn't like that… everything would be better in the morning. Maybe he'd even get to work with Cody again. Have a friend, a brother he could count on after his abandoned him. Cody was no Force 99, but it was better than nothing. 

He picked up his kit and headed to his bunk, laying his armor down and checking everywhere for any hiding sassy teenagers. Satisfied he was alone, he lay down and slipped into a restless doze. 

Why did he have to bring up what she wanted? She could never have it again, no matter how beautiful the dream was. It was stolen, ruined by filthy hands clamped tighter than a chokehold. She could focus on what she had to do, follow a path of expectation set by necessity. But want? 

"What I want won't ever be mine. I wanted to build us a home on Naboo. I wanted to keep our team together after the war. I wanted to live!” 

Her reflection in the shaving mirror was staring at her. Lavender eyes, tears in the corners, but not sorrowful. No, those eyes were angry, hotter than Mustafar. It bubbled like lava under her skin, nowhere to send it but out. And she hated that face staring back at her in the moment. That was the face that had failed. It hadn't saved those helpless younglings. It hadn't spared Anakin from the dark side. It hadn't saved the man she loved. 

Failure. Broken, useless, weak Jedi. Worse than nothing at all. 

Her fist was moving before she could stop it, hitting the image in front of her until it shattered under her hand. It should have hurt, but she couldn't even do that right. The shards warped the reflection, the red tinge in her vision going gray and listless. 

Blood welled up and rolled down her skin, the hot feeling kicking in at the wrist. Droplets trickled onto the sheets, muddy looking on the gray fabric. Another thing she ruined. Another thing she'd broken. 

The many eyes in the broken reflection widened, softened as the tears began in earnest. 

"Miri…"

"I'm sorry… I don't know what came over me."

Something was wrong with her. She was collapsing, sinking into the dark… 

How would she ever save him now? If she couldn't save herself, Crosshair was-

Crosshair’s eyes snapped open, minutes before his alarm. He lay in the dark, breathing hard as a disembodied fury he'd never felt so strongly burned across his skin. The rage wasn't his own, but he was swept up in it. 

Miria. It was Miria… something was wrong. 

He sat up slowly, rubbing his face as he shook the cobwebs from his mind. What the hell…

His knuckles ached like he'd hit something, a phantom pain the vision hadn't experienced. He examined them as the lights came up. There was a bruise between his first and second knuckle, deep and blackening. 

He elected to ignore it, putting on his gloves and armor before heading to the mess. At least he could try to eat and forget this weird Jedi shit. He was just sitting down when the PA went off. "CT-9904 please report to Vice-Admiral Rampart's office immediately."

Dammit. This time he was taking his food with him. 

He'd shoved it in his mouth before he got to the office, letting himself in. Rampart was kicked back at his desk again, and the deja vu was not lost on the clone. 

"Your actions on Dexis were most impressive. I'm sending you on another mission. Report to CC-1223 for your debrief."

Crosshair blinked. "Why not Commander Cody?"

"Cody?" Rampart snorted. Crosshair was, for a moment, confused. Didn't everyone know the man who'd been the Marshall Commander of the Third Systems Army? But… individual names had been deregulated. Of course. 

"CC-2224."

"You'll never be more than a number to them." Hunter's voice in his head was almost accusatory now. 

Rampart huffed. "Oh. It seems he's gone AWOL."

That took Crosshair by surprise. Cody? AWOL? "...I see."

"It seems clone loyalty is not as advertised anymore." Rampart mused, not missing the opportunity to compare them to commodities. "It's funny, all these clones around you seem to go missing."

Crosshair felt his fists clenching again, the bruise on his knuckles alerting him. Why? Why did everyone that might have kept the crippling loneliness at bay leave? First the Batch, then Howser on Ryloth for as annoying as he'd been, now Cody? 

"Is there a problem?" Rampart narrowed his eyes. 

"No… sir." Why did the honorific taste like ashes in his mouth? 

"Then you're dismissed."

Crosshair walked out slowly, stiff as durasteel. What the hell was wrong with him? 

During the infrequent times Miria had been on Republic flagships during the war, she'd always found herself stopping at a wall somewhere. Every ship had one, started usually in the dead of night by some brother who couldn't sleep because the bunk next to his was empty. So he'd find a unadorned expanse of wall, take his vibroblade, and carve his broken heart into the durasteel in the form of a name and CT number. At some point, it had simply become tradition to have a memorial on board. Clones left little trinkets to the fallen, paused on rotations to remember, and occasionally whispered a prayer to whatever faith the galaxy had offered them comfort in. 

Miria had always counted herself lucky there was no such wall on the Havoc Marauder. It was almost a mark of pride, in the way the guys preened about their perfect success rate. They'd never failed a mission. She'd never lost a soldier, never stood at the foot of a covered casket and bid a good man goodbye to a chorus of Mando’a. 

Maybe that pride was why the wall in front of the medbay hit her so hard. She'd gotten up early, heading for the galley to make tea and caf for the boys, when she saw it. 

It was a small shelf, mounted at about head height for her. Clearly the team had been in on it, judging by the trinkets left there. A box of toothpicks from Hunter, a detached and heavily modified rifle scope from Tech, a miniature whiskey bottle from Echo, and a single unlit cigarra from Wrecker sat tucked in Lula's lap where Omega had offered her up after Wrecker gave her the toy. The doll was listed to the side, button eyes scuffed and well-loved as it waited for someone to pull it into their arms for comfort. Etched into the wall just above the little shrine was the name. The only name, the only soldier Miria had ever lost.

Crosshair. CT-9904. 

Her knees buckled before she realized it, the Jedi sinking to the floor with a ragged little noise. Her palms pressed into the durasteel, fighting the shakes and losing. 

"Miri?" Omega whispered behind her. 

"He isn't dead…" Miria sobbed. "He isn't dead, Omega."

"I know. But… Echo thought it would help." The girl walked over, putting her hand on Miria's shoulder. "Don't cry, Miri."

Miria didn't want to cry. She wanted to scream. Crosshair wasn't dead! He didn't belong in a memorial to the fallen! She wasn't giving up on him! "This feels like surrender." She finally whispered, swallowing her tears before they could steal her tenuous breath and have her hacking up her lungs here on the floor. 

"Nobody's giving up." Omega said with an adult firmness that startled Miria. "Wrecker said, if we all left something, that maybe it would bring him back. Like a call."

Miria looked up at the shrine again through wet lashes. "A call?"

"We've tried everything else. He's got to make the choice on his own, but maybe it'll reach him. You said the Force works in mysterious ways." 

Miria wiped her cheeks. "You're… you're right, little love." She finally croaked. "I'll leave something too."

"Good. I'll turn the caf maker on, you go wash your face." Omega helped her to her feet. 

Miria shuffled to the fresher slowly, splashing cool water over her stinging cheeks before creeping back to the bunkroom. The rest of her friends were sleeping, in various states of sprawled out, so she carefully opened Crosshair’s old footlocker and pulled out the envelope of his letters. There was a small stack of blank pages at the bottom, future letters for her that he hadn't gotten to write.

She picked them and a stylus up, sitting cross-legged on the floor with the locker as a desk for a moment before pressing the ink to the page. Her handwriting might not be as good as it once was, but why should that stop her now? 

My darling,

I've read every letter you wrote me-

[lightmylyla]

my wake up. part 3.

tw: alcohol use

I made my way downstairs to greet Danny, and his friend, but I stopped in my tracks when I realized who it was.

Tall, Lanky, Auburn, brown eyes. Oh my god. It was the man who I shared the moon with 7 years ago.

It was a story I told everyone. It had always stuck with me, Amelia's party was the first and only party I have ever been to in 7 years. I never went to another one because of how terrible that night went. Aside from the story of me getting locked out, it resulted in Amelia and Danny getting sent to boarding school, and made me lose contact with her.

So I vowed to not go to any more parties.

The Tall boy didn't seem to remember me, so I pretended to not remember him either. I blanked him at first, putting all my focus on Danny, whom I hadn't seen in so long.

He was taller and more muscular, he also had more of a unique look now. With blonde streaks in his hair and a very healthy curl routine (which I would always dream he'd find.) He was still dreamy, but he's not my type anymore. Besides, Jean.

I hugged Danny so tight and we shared some kind words. He was smiley as ever, his friend standing next to him awkwardly.

His friend reached out a hand for me to shake. It was that same hand I had been met with and analyzed, only now the calluses were deeper. Almost talking over his entire hand.

I shook his hand smiling, as I was about to open my mouth he said

-I'm Sam.-

I knew.

-Lyla.-

He knew.

A few seconds of silence prolonged as me and Sam stared at each other. I felt him remember me. He brushed it off though, he must have thought I didn't remember him.

I made my way back upstairs to leave Amelia and her brother to reconcile, as I walked up I heard another pair of feet following me, I assumed it was Sam's, he had just asked Amelia where the bathroom was.

My thoughts were interrupted as my phone rang for the 4th time that night. It was Jean.

I swiftly walked into my room and shut the door, then angrily answered my phone.

-qu'elle.-

I snapped at him. He'd been disturbing me too much. I could have been asleep and he could have woken me up!

Jean was actually being nice to me, he apologized earlier and everything, saying he shouldn't have snapped and that he's going to come and see me this weekend.

I was happy, I missed him very much, it was unfamiliar being in a room without him, being in a bed without him. So maybe having him here for a weekend will help things settle in.

-Je t'aime Jean. Bonne nuit bébé.-

I put the phone down, happy that I didn't go to sleep with him still worried about towels. And just as I was laying down I heard a gentle knock at my door.

-Come in-

I quietly said, I didn't want to sound annoyed, I kind of was though. I had been trying to get to sleep for ages.

My door opened to reveal Amelia, she smiled at me.

-we're down in the living room having some drinks and talking if you want to join us? If not it's okay.-

She cautiously spoke, she remembers that I like to go to bed early.

-I would love to actually.-

I got up from my bed and followed her downstairs. I hadn't been in the living room yet, so this was the first I had seen of it. It was probably the best room in the house, definitely the room Amelia had been spending the most time in too.

There were two sofas, and a coffee table in between them. A large Tv stood above a vintage fireplace, and a lamp was the only thing illuminating the room.

Danny came in through the front door holding some cases of beer, and he placed them on the coffee table in front of me and Amelia, he must have gone to the local shop. Sam came in shortly after, he must have been in the bathroom upstairs for ages, because his hair was wet and he was wearing more comfortable clothes. I couldn't help but stare at him as he walked in.

The only thing I had figured out about him was that he must have been one of Danny's close friends, even 7 years ago. And that must have been why he was at the party that night.

I was sitting on the sofa facing the Tv. Amelia sat down next to Danny on the next sofa, leaving the only space available for Sam to be next to me. He sat there with no hesitation, because why would there be?

Amelia opened the first can, setting us off to open ours too, Amelia and Danny talked about family on the sofa, me and Sam in silence.

Eventually I decided to break the silence, I looked up at him and he caught my eye immediately.

-So you're in a band then?-

I said, curiously.

-yeah, I play bass and keys, Daniel plays drums if you didn't know.-

He smirked and looked over at Danny, who was lost in conversation with Amelia

-Yeah I knew, growing up I'd hear him playing in the basement. He's pretty good-

We were both looking at Danny now, there was an awkward silence that overhung.

Sam sighed and looked at me.

-I don't know if this will be awkward to say, but I've been trying to find you since that night.-

I turned to him confused, because I decided to pretend to not remember him.

-Don't you remember me?-

He had a saddened look on his face.

-Hm, is there anything that would jog my memory?-

I giggled. I didn't know why I was playing games with him but it was fun. I really thought he wouldn't remember me after such a short interaction for one night 7 years ago. It must have stuck with him for some reason.

-We got locked out together at her party, we were 15.- He tilted his bottle towards Amelia as he said this.

I faked surprise, I widened my eyes and patted his leg

-Yes! I remember you!-

We both laughed in relief, knowing we both defeated the overhanging thoughts surrounding us. Now is my chance to find out all I've wanted to know about this guy.

Now I knew why he was at the party, and why his fingers worked so hard. It's from the bass.

Biting my lip I tried to think of something to ask him, just anything.

-Are you staying on the couch then?-

I asked, raising my eyebrows.

-Yeah, we're staying for the month. I'm so grateful for you and Amelia letting us stay, it was either this or a hotel room with my twin brothers. I choose peace.-

He let off a nervous laugh.

I couldn't help but notice a cute quirk in the way he spoke. After a sentence he would do a small smirk and head nod, or run his fingers through his hair. It was like a habit, routine. He'd do it every time he spoke.

I realized that he looks almost exactly the same as he did when he was 15. Except now he flaunted long brown locks, and he didn't have braces. He was also taller. But his face and his voice, exactly the same.

I noticed I hadn't said anything back, so I just laughed, then I asked;

-How old are you now?-

I wanted to know if him and I were born the same year

-I'm turning 22 next month.-

My eyes widened.

-what day?-

I asked, he seemed confused.

-3rd?- he raised an eyebrow.

-No way.- I exclaimed

Our birthdays were the same day. hesitantly, I asked;

-what time were you born..-

He looked extremely confused now.

-8.00 pm, like, on the dot.-

I was speechless.

-I was born at 7:53, April 3rd 1999.-

Sam and I were born only 7 minutes apart.

We both shared a laugh and a few 'oh my gods' then we shared this new news with Danny and Amelia, who were deep in conversation. They didn't seem to care as much as us, so we both just shrugged and continued talking.

We talked about what our favorite birthdays were, he said his 13th was a good one. I said I hated my 13th. The conversation went on for what felt like hours. But I felt myself getting tired.

-I think I'm going to go to bed guys, goodnight all- I looked over at Sam -Night twin.- we laughed, and I went upstairs to my empty room. I was happy the moving van wasn't delivering my stuff until Saturday, that means I had 2 days to paint my room without worrying about ruining my furniture.

As I was trying to get to sleep, all I could think about was Sam. He seemed pretty shy. That's not how I remember him. Maybe 15 year old Sam was different. And slightly intoxicated, but I knew that Sam was in there somewhere. I just had to get it out of him.

Finally I felt myself actually start to drift. I sunk into my unfamiliar bed, and started to dream.

The next morning I was awoken by the sweetest aroma. It reminded me of when I'd go to my grandfather's house as a child, and he'd make us crepes in the morning.

I rolled out of my bed and brushed my hair, I put it in a braid going down the back of my head, then I pulled on a pair of old yoga pants and a plain white t-shirt. I knew I'd be painting my room today.

As I was putting on a pair of white socks, there was a knock at my door.

-come in.- I exclaimed, my voice still hoarse from waking up. I cleared my throat.

Amelia crept in my room quietly and sat on my bed, I looked at her and smiled.

-Sam's cute isn't he.-

She said and looked at me with intrusive eyebrows.

-Yes he's smoking hot.-

I teased, a sarcastic tone in my voice.

I knew she'd do this. Ever since we were younger Amelia has always been into girls, but she was always extremely interested in me getting a boyfriend. I liked it, because she'd always manage to find a cute guy for me. We were quite young though, so most guys were cute to me.

She rolled her eyes.

Because I had gotten into contact with Amelia while I was still living in France, she had heard Jean and knew all about him. She didn't like him, I could tell, but to be honest I don't really like him either.

-I think he likes you-

she said, playfully. As if we were young girls again.

I rolled my eyes this time, ignoring her, but a few seconds after a smile crept up on my face.

She giggled and left the room, and then I realized, if she was in here, who is cooking crepes?

Curiously I walked out of my room, which led me to the kitchen, and I saw Sam and Danny cooking and laughing, the kitchen was extremely messy. Cracked eggs everywhere, spilled sugar and milk, strawberry stems, and two empty mugs of what I assume was coffee.

I laughed at the mess, which caused them both to turn around and laugh at me as well.

-Gordon Ramsay once said, if you're kitchens not messy... the food isn't good.-

Danny expressed, waving a spatula in my direction.

I scoffed, because Gordon Ramsay definitely didn't say that.

I opened the door to the balcony and stepped out into the warm summer morning of London. I sat on a small chair that was out there and opened my phone. I had a couple of texts from Jean, as he had woken up before me.

I decided not to reply, but to just call him instead.

We chatted on the phone for a while, I told him about my plans to paint my room and he told me about how he was getting called into work that day.

Although all I cared about at that moment was why Sam was staring at me from inside.

Jean caught on and asked me why I was distracted, annoyance in my voice I told him I wasn't. Eventually he and I ran out of things to talk about. So I told him I loved him and that I had to go.

I put my phone down next to me and continued looking at the clouds, suddenly I heard the patio door slide open, barefoot Sam came out to join me. There wasn't a chair for him, so he sat on the floor and leaned against the door, which he had closed as he was coming out.

-Were you just speaking French?- He asked.

I nodded and continued to look at the clouds. I noticed he was still staring at me so I looked at him and smiled.

-Why?-

-I lived there for 7 years, I still have contacts there.-

Sam was silent, then he started to nod.

-That's cool, I've always wanted to speak another language.-

I was finding it so hard not to stare at his body. He was wearing a pair of baggy sweats and no shirt. His hair was up in a messy bun. He still had sleep in his eyes, he probably only woke up like 20 minutes before me.

We sat alone on the balcony for a while, looking at the clouds.

Fuck it.

-Do you wanna help me do something today?-

I asked him. I knew I couldn't paint my room alone.

And I also knew that Amelia and Danny would want to do something together, they hadn't seen each other in ages apparently. And asking Sam to help me with my room would allow them to be able to go out somewhere without feeling guilty.

-Yeah sure, I'm free until 4. That's when I've got to go to the pub and meet my brothers, for practise and setting up for the show at 7.-

I nodded and started,

-I need to paint my room today, and I need someone to help me pick out the colors and actually paint, are you down for it?-

I nervously touched my hair.

Sam looked at Danny from inside, then he shrugged and nodded.

-Yeah sure, I don't see a problem with that, let me just go and get ready, because it seems you're ready to leave.-

He laughed, then made his way back inside, I read his lips and he told Danny, and Danny raised his eyebrows and smiled. Probably relieved that he could go out with his sister today.

I smiled to myself on the balcony, I was happy that Sam agreed, even though I hadn't known him for long.

A few minutes later he walked back onto the balcony, wearing a summery outfit, a half buttoned white shirt with a black shirt underneath. And a pair of blue denim shorts. No shoes yet. I was scared he was never going to put any on, but he was holding a fresh cup of coffee.

We sat for another 5 minutes just talking about random things, he took the last sip from his coffee cup and we both got up to leave

[girlivealwaysbean]

it's been a year since i lied to you and told you that yes ive moved on so can we please be friends again. can you really blame me? i thought getting good at suppressing our memories from that one month meant moving on. i didn't know that i would feel a lump in my throat when you called me suddenly in the middle of a sunday even tho the plan was to talk once a week and we had talked only 3 days before. i didn't know i would feel butterflies in my stomach when i heard your laugh so close to my ear, but can you really blame me for being reminded of you giggling talking about the logistics of kissing on your study table?

but it's been another year since we've talked on the phone. those memories are so distant and blurry and full of light and happiness that i can't even believe they happened to me, it feels like they happened to a different person. so you don't have to worry, because ive moved on now.

remember when i used to tell you that i miss you so much i can't think about anything else, that i spend all my day reading our old chats? and you used to say, you need to stop and there are other people in the world? well, you don't have to worry about feeling uncomfortable now. i passed the exam i failed because i was too heartbroken over you. i go to tuitions and then i go to internship and i come home so late that all i do is eat and sleep. ive been doing better these days.

and you were right, there are other people in the world. but do you know, i asked a girl to come watch barbie with me, and she made a disgusted expression and said she'd already watched it and she hated it? this happened after we shared a coffee and realising we live next to each other and finding out that she watches kdramas and i listen to kpop. so surprising isn't it? someone who probably understands toxic masculinity and gender roles are fucked up still has internalised misogyny in her? nobody can compare to you, you lecturing me about feminism in tenth standard and your little book club with assigned reading as a thousand splendid suns and you having tears in your eyes showing us harry styles with pride flags in his concerts and you being mean and blunt saying i need to talk about my internalised homophobia. im starting to think you were one in a million and i was a fool to lose you, and an even bigger fool to have had you back and then lose you again.

but do you understand now? you told me you didn't, two years ago. i asked you, don't you understand that i was going crazy dealing with my psychotic family and i was depressed and tired and couldn't talk? and you said no, you're sorry, you really don't, you don't understand how someone can not share why they're sad to the person they supposedly love the most in the world. as i was writing this, daylight by taylor swift started playing. ironic, isn't it? there are many memories ive tried to erase from that one month, but this one i cannot forget- me coming into your room the night we planned and asking you if you're sure about this and is this like an experiment thing a oh what's kissing like thing or is it a we're in love with each other thing, and you smiling softly and saying girl yes i am sure it is one hundred percent a we're in love thing.

ive been getting better at sharing my sadness with my loved ones. my parents haven't stopped fighting, my dad shouted at my mom today morning because my brother lost the car keys, but it's okay, ive learned to tune it out. he only lives here for half a month, he stays somewhere else the other half so it's been easier to bear. my sister moved out, finally. ive been sad because of it but i know she's obviously happier there so it's okay. we have a neighbor and they have this tiny tiny annoying si kid she always comes to her house after her mom scolded her to sulk and watch tv with us. how is your little sister doing? i think of her when our neighbor devil comes. and how is your mom doing? are they settling in well to the new city? and how are you doing? have you been okay? we don't have to be exes trying to be friends again. but can't we just be childhood friends (if age 15 was childhood) who drifted apart briefly but found their way back to each other? please?

but it's okay, if we can't. cause like i said, ive moved on.

[captainmalewriter]

Danny

For generations now, there's been an extraordinary gift that runs in my family. My older brother Danny inherited it when he turned 18. And now that I'm at the cusp of adulthood too, it was time for me to inherit the family gift too.

My Mom sat me down for "The Talk" when it first started manifesting. She told me the gift was lucid dreaming. It's trippy to be honest. To be dreaming while actively knowing you're dreaming is a mind boggling experience. You feel lighter, yet everytime you move you feel heavier. You feel like you're constantly moving through a thick haze, moving closer and closer to the unknown.

As the days went on, my trips happened more frequently. I mentioned this to my Mom, and she could only shrug her shoulders and say that I must be a natural at it. Although, the more it happened, the more I noticed how real it seemed. What I saw was too real, too much to just be a dream. Soon enough I connected the dots and realized that my Mom had lied to me. The gift wasn't lucid dreaming, it was astral projection. I never told her I knew though, just in case she knew of a way to suppress my gift.

Not that it mattered much. I couldn't control when my soul projected out of my body. I was just go to sleep some nights, and suddenly I was floating around while my unconcious body just laid there. I enjoyed being an unbounded soul though. It's fun to just go around and see things from an otherworldly perspective. I was just floating around my house like any other night. I went into my brother Danny's room where he was fast asleep. Or so I thought, I noticed that his body was a little too motionless to be asleep. He must've been astral projecting too. I got closer to his body. It was odd seeing Danny this way. He was so still, it was almost like he was dead!

I reached out and laid a hand on him. My hand rested on his arm, only for it to phase into him. My hand was actually inside of his body! I didn't know I could do that! Then, becoming curious, I decided to lay my entire being on top of his body. The same thing happened; I laid there for only a second or two, and then I started to sink into Danny. His body started twitching and shivering in response to taking in my soul. But it never rejected me, instead it took me in entirely. My soul aligned perfectly with Danny's body, and his potent body odor woke me up. Despite the strong smell, I realized I was now in control of his body!

That happened a week ago now. Danny was furious with me when I possessed his body. He demanded I leave immediately, but I don't know how! I've been inside his body for over a week now! Not that I'm complaining, I'm loving this new body of mine! Danny hates it though, without his body available he had to take over my body in the meantime. Mom says it's gonna be a while before she can figure out how to switch back. She says the tricky part is that my gift is still new, and hasn't had the time to properly mature. The swapback will take a while because of that.

Not that I mind it, honestly I wouldn't mind being inside Danny's body forever. In fact, I think it's time I start acting like Danny now. He's been annoying his "older brother" a lot lately. I'm gonna stick his face in my hairy, sweaty armpit to shut him up when I get back home. Time for payback for all the times he's done that to me, and I'm gonna savor every moment of it.

[moonlightflower21]

every kind of way

a/n: papa leo w his kids. i ain't written for him so long, i've forgotten everything 💀

"i've got you, my little darling. it's okay, papa's here" leo's gentle voice calmed his baby, dried tears tracked on her little cheeks. he kissed her forehead whilst he wiped the tears away. seeing her so agitated broke him a little, parenthood was difficult. it was always a new learning curve, especially because he didn't have the privilege of going out and about when his kids were fussy. the night was hard on his little girl, she was unsettled and cried at every turn. he so desperately wanted to call you but this was the first night that you'd had to yourself for a while. you needed it and he knew that, he couldn't take it away from you.

"hi sweetheart, what's going on hm?" he cooed, gently waving her little hand with his finger. it got her staring at him with her huge gorgeous blue eyes.

"you must be exhausted, you've been crying and crying the whole night. it's a wonder how you haven't managed to wake the whole of new york" he walked to the other side of the room to pick up her baby blue pacifier, chuckling at her little face.

"i wish you laughed just as loudly. your cries wound me, i wish i could take away your pain" with a soft gasp, her mouth sucked in the pacifier and her eyes closed slowly before shutting altogether. her small clenched palm on his chest loosened, snuggling in further to the turtle for warmth which he happily provided.

he gently rocked, walking to and fro very gently as to not make any sudden movements. he could hear his toddler giggling excitedly in the background, only knowing how much of a fuss he'd put up. but with time comes wisdom, leo knew little tricks to help him sleep better. a small mumble fell from the baby in his arms and he glanced down to see her deep asleep, hand wrapped around the end of his mask. his heart tugged, a moment he would treasure until the end of time. very slowly, he placed her down in her bassinet right next to the bed.

"sleep well my baby, i love you" he bends to press a few small kiss to her cheeks, gently rubbing his thumb over her forehead. god he could look at her forever and never tire from her beauty. she looked like a carbon copy of you, even thought she was half turtle.

very slowly he closed the door and searched for his toddler, picking up the toys along the way to avoid a tripping hazard.

"CATCH ME!" a young voice trilled in the air and leos arm immediately outstretched, grabbing the small body dangerously close to hitting the floor.

"hey!-" he froze as he heard shuffling on the baby mic and breathed a sigh of relief when she mumbled and fell back to sleep.

"cmon buddy, it's bedtime" leo held his small toddler in his arms, standing up to his full height.

"noo papa, pleaseee!" the little boy kicked and nudged his father, doing obviously no harm but a little annoying nonetheless.

"yeah bro pleaseeee" shooting a glare at mikey, leo continued wrapping his son in a blanket. it was leo's old blanket from the past, one that he absolutely couldn't live without. and now his son was in love with the same blanket too.

"you're tired, let's get you into bed" already yawning and rubbing his eyes, the youngest ninja fought his very hardest to stay awake. forcing his eyes open with his fingers but a short massage from leo had him in a softly chirping mess. another little sound leo made when he was relaxed and sleepy. like father, like son

and just like his sister before him, the small turtle found himself against his father's chest, snoozing away. leo gently running a finger down his back, rocking ever so slightly side to side.

"wasn't he just bouncing off of a wall like two seconds ago?" donnie chuckled, entering the room sipping his newly brewed cup of coffee.

"i swear he's got more energy than me" mikey slumped to the couch, holding a few of the toys scattered around the room.

leo rolled his eyes, smiling at his brothers comments. he looked down to see his son curled into a small ball, his whole hand wrapped around one of his fingers. it took him back to when he was a kid and did the same to splinter, his heart so full of adoration for this small creature.

"i love you" leo kissed the top of his head gently, walking back to the room to place him down.

it was the quiet and tender moments of fatherhood that tugged at leo's heartstrings, these very moments that would be forever burned into his heart. there was very little he wouldn't do for his kids, he just always hoped he could protect them as well as splinter could. it would be a struggle, they weren't normal children. he wondered howd they be in the future, would they hate their turtle heritage? would they be resentful to you and leo? would be be able to keep them safe and perfect from danger? could be a good father from underground?

but for now, glancing at his snoozing babies, he smiled to himself.

he was doing pretty well.