#like i remember the order of scenes that were building up to it like. jackie hauntings. abortion/baptism. misty kidnapping jessica | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

heauxplesslydevoted · 4 years ago

Text

Fire & Desire (Ethan x MC)

Warning: NSFW, 18+

Summary: After the funeral, Naomi heads to Ethan’s apartment for comfort. Let’s pretend that 30 diamond scene in chapter 12 didn’t happen, okay? I made up 95% of this.

A/N: Guys, I have an embarrassing amount of rewrites/drafts of this on my computer. Pls enjoy.

~v~

In order to survive the past few days, Naomi has made it her mission to get through things one step at a time. Her first goal was to survive the toxin. She did. Then it was to just get well and be discharged from the hospital. The last step was to make it through Danny and Bobby’s joint memorial service in one piece. Not only did she do that, but she delivered a eulogy flawlessly, while her friends and colleagues all fell apart at the seams and waited for her to do the same.

But now that it’s all over, now that there’s no goal to work towards especially since Naveen won’t let her back in the hospital without clearance from a therapist, Naomi has never felt more lost or out of sorts in her life.

After the memorial, Naomi went home with her roommates and she regrets it. Jackie and Elijah can barely look at her without giving her pity glances, Sienna has been trying to feed her nonstop, and Aurora has convinced them all that she’s spiraling due to her meltdown at Ethan earlier that day. So she hid in her bedroom, pretending to be asleep simply because she was tired of them.

But sleep evades her. Outside of a quick 15 minute power nap, Naomi hasn’t been able to sleep, thoughts of being back in that hospital room never too far from her mind. Every time she closed her eyes, the fear took over, gripping her and refusing to let go.

So that’s how she ended up here, in Ethan’s apartment, on his couch, nursing a glass of scotch. Being at home wasn’t an option and there’s no one else she’d rather be with, so as soon as her roommates went to bed, Naomi slipped out and made her way across town to Ethan’s place. Ethan was shocked when he found her outside of his apartment at midnight, especially with the way their last conversation ended. He wanted to scold her for taking an Uber so late at night by herself, but of course he didn’t turn her away.

“Are you hungry?” Ethan asks, opening and closing his refrigerator a few times, as if that will make food magically appear. “I didn’t cook today, but I can probably throw something together.”

Naomi doesn’t know if her appetite still hasn’t returned or if it’s her mind playing tricks on her, as she can still taste the vomit in her mouth at the mere mention of food. “No, I’m fine for now.”

“You sure?”

“Positive.”

“Okay.” Ethan wants to ask questions because she’s obviously come here for a reason, but he doesn’t want to push her. “It’s late and you must be exhausted though.” He walks back to his living room and holds out a hand, which Naomi grabs. He ushers her to his bedroom. “You can sleep in here.”

His room still looks like she remembers. The king sized bed takes up most of the space, and he still has the most amazing view in all of Boston. The night is still young and bustling, the buildings all lit up.

“You’re sleeping in here too, right?” Naomi asks.

“I was going to take the guest room, or the couch.”

Naomi shakes her head. “Nonsense, you’re sleeping with me.”

Even though there’s no light other than moonlight spilling into the room, Naomi can still see his cheeks tinge pink. “I didn’t want to assume.”

“I think after our night together in the hospital, assuming will be safe. It’s cute, but we’re grown and you won’t offend my virtue.”

“Noted.” Naomi watches him as he moves around the room, a sort of anxious energy radiating off of him. He rummages through a drawer until he finds something suitable for her to put on. “Here you go.”

It’s a pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt from a charity 5k because of course Ethan is the type to participate in something like that. Naomi rids herself of the jeans and sweater she haphazardly threw on in her rush to leave her apartment and slips on the t-shirt, forgoing the pants. Their obvious size differences make the shirt look comically large on her like a nightgown.

“Fair warning, I don’t have a scrunchie or anything to wrap my hair in, so I apologize if you wake up to like...a lion’s mane of hair in your face.”

“I think I’ll survive.”

Naomi pulls back the covers and slides into the bed, moaning upon contact. Oh, to be rich and have fancy high thread-count sheets and a memory foam mattress. “God, I never want to leave this bed.”

“Keep making noises like that, and I won’t let you.” He doesn’t climb bed behind her, opting to sit on the edge. “You want to talk?”

“About what?”

“The fact that you’re here right now, instead of your own apartment.”

“Is it not enough to say I wanted to see you?”

Ethan scoffs. Naomi is charming, but she can’t bullshit him. “Sure.”

She doesn’t want to talk about herself. That’s all she’s done for the past 48 hours, and she’s tired of it. It’s selfish.

She manages to turn the tables on Ethan. “You look tired. I’m sorry if I woke you.”

“You didn’t,” Ethan assures her. “I wasn’t sleeping anyway.”

“I didn’t have you pegged as an insomniac.”

“We’re doctors, so it goes without saying that we’re all insomniacs.” Ethan sighs. “But to be honest, I haven’t had a good night’s sleep all week.”

“I get it. With the toxin, and Bobby and Danny, and Raf–”

“It’s not them, Naomi, it’s you,” Ethan argues. “I spend all 24 hours of the day with you on my brain, worrying about you.”

“You don’t have to.”

“I thought you were going to die in my arms,” Ethan continues. “I tried to stay optimistic for you, but all I could think about was the fact that it could’ve been my last night with you. That night, after you finally fell asleep, I stayed up, analyzing your vitals. The only time I wasn’t looking at you is when I was looking at your chart. And every night since, I lay awake, forcing myself to not contact you.”

Naomi frowns. She’s spent so much time wrapped up in her own head, she didn’t take much time to think about how Ethan was affected as well. She’s sure she’d be a wreck if the situation was reversed, if he was the one fighting an unknown deadly agent.

She crawls out the sheets and joins Ethan at the edge of the bed. “I’m sorry, I didn’t even think–”

“Don’t you dare apologize to me. You’ve been going through enough, I shouldn’t even be burdening you.”

“It’s fine. We shared deathbed confessions, I think I can handle whatever else you throw my way.”

Ethan turns to lock eyes with Naomi, her expression open and earnest. “I meant everything I said in there. I regret putting us on hold, and I’m sorry I wasted so much time.”

Naomi sucks in a deep breath. “Okay. So what are you saying?”

“I’m saying that I’m done pretending that I don’t have feelings for you. I’m done trying to hold you at arm’s length. I want you, Naomi.”

“Are you feeling like this because I almost died?”

“No. I mean, sure it was a major wake-up call for me, but I’ve felt this way for a long time. The last time you were here, the night of the softball game, I kissed you, and instead of making my intentions known then and there, I put it off, and that almost cost me everything. I don’t have all the answers, because I’m your boss, and people at hospitals like to gossip, but whatever this is, I want to explore it with you.”

Naomi doesn’t say anything, her brain and heart trying to process all of this information. Ethan watches her, his heart pounding wildly. Did he seriously miscalculate her feelings for him? Did he pick the most inopportune moment to drop this on her?

“It took you long enough,” Naomi says.

He laughs, his relief evident and he grabs her hand. “Well I appreciate you having the patience of a saint, Rookie.”

“It’s because I am a saint.”

He runs his thumb along the inside of her wrist, tracing a pattern into the warm skin. The steady thump of her pulse is enough to soothe the anxiety that lingers. She’s here. She’s with him. She’s alive.

His other hand grips the back of her neck, forcing her to look him in the eye. Ethan’s gaze sweeps across her face, his 11 years as a doctor having given him a keen eye for detail. There’s her long, dark eyelashes, her full lips, her pronounced cheekbones, her button nose that crinkles whenever she’s smiling and laughing, a sight he hopes to see again soon. He doesn’t know what emotion is more overwhelming: the relief that she’s alive, or the fear that she was that close to dying.

Ethan is all too aware of the fact that he could’ve lost her. That he and Naomi would never share a quiet moment like this ever again. That she’d never know the full extent of his feelings for her, because he’d been too much of a coward to be honest a long time ago. The thought of the hypothetical makes his insides twist uncomfortably. He can’t dwell on it, not while she’s here, looking to him for comfort.

Without thinking further, his lips slowly collide with hers, pulling the younger woman into a kiss. She wastes no time, kissing him back with an unrivaled fervor that borders on desperation, but Ethan isn’t one to complain. He deepens the kiss, his tongue sweeping her mouth until he finds her own.

The kiss sparks something inside of Naomi, a buzz building in the pit of her stomach, so potent and all consuming, it nearly startled her. For the first time in what feels like forever, the rest of the world fades away. It’s just her and Ethan, and this magical little flame between them. So she clings to it, to him, to them, and swings one of her legs over, straddling him. One arm wraps around the back of his neck, one hand tangles in the hair at the nape of his neck as she pulls herself closer. He tastes smoky like the scotch they drank earlier, and she swears the kiss alone is enough to leave her intoxicated.

Desperate for any sort of friction, Naomi rolls her hips into his. She can feel him hardening beneath her, his erection straining through the thin layers of fabric preventing them from being completely bare with each other. Unable to help himself, Ethan breaks the kiss only to let out a low, “Fuck.”

He needs to stop this. Logically, Ethan knows that putting a kibosh in this is the right thing to do. Naomi came to him because she needs a support system, and the last thing he wants to do is take advantage of her trust and manipulate her grief.

“Naomi, stop,” Ethan gently commands, hands gripping her hips in order to keep her still.

“What? What’s wrong?”

“We don’t have to do this tonight,” Ethan says. “Let’s just go to bed.”

“But I don’t want to go to bed.”

“But you should.”

“No. I want this, I want you.”

Her lips are on his jaw, kissing and biting, and it’s becoming harder for him to stay focused. “You’ve had a very long day, it’s been emotionally draining, and I’m sure you’re exhausted–”

“Oh my God, stop!” Naomi exclaims. “I don’t need another person explaining to me what I’m going through or what I’m feeling. Trust me, no one is more aware of my shitty life than I am.” She leans forward resting her forehead against his. “I get it, I’m the one who barely survived an assassination attempt, and I’m going to walk around with that for the rest of my life. For tonight, can I just be a normal girl who wants to fuck her boyfriend, or whatever the hell you are to me? Please?”

Despite the circumstances, his cock twitches almost painfully as soon as the word “boyfriend” leaves her mouth. He’s a grown ass man, he hasn’t used the term since high school, and here he is, ready to dissolve into a puddle of goo. What the hell has Naomi Valentine done to him and who is this mess of a man that she’s replaced him with?

Whatever she’s trying to do won’t work. Pushing aside her grief and trying to avoid the problem with sex isn’t a coping mechanism he’d ever recommend (not that he has any brilliant ones of his own, but still). It’s not going to fix anything in the long run.

Naomi’s lips brush against his before giving him another teasing kiss before pulling away. “Please,” she whines. “I want you, Ethan.” Ethan has always considered himself to be a staunch man who isn’t easily swayed. Until he met Naomi. How can he be when she’s looking at him with those big doe eyes of hers, weakening his otherwise tough resolve? It may not help her tomorrow, but who is he to deny her reprieve at least right now? Saying no to her has never been a strength Ethan claimed to possess.

Not giving any sort of warning, Ethan grips the oversized shirt she’s wearing and forcefully pulls it up, barely giving her enough time to lift her arms and help with the process. Once the piece of clothing is discarded somewhere on his bedroom floor, Ethan flips their positions, Naomi’s back landing on his mattress with a soft thud.

He sucks in a sharp breath. Ethan considers himself to be a well traveled, well cultured man. He’s seen the Eiffel Tower multiple times, visited the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, driven a Ferrari through the streets of Rome, drank wine while overlooking a Napa vineyard, and more. But none of those even comes close to the sight of Naomi naked in his bed, writhing on top of his sheets, her curly hair splayed out like a crown atop her head. She’s absolutely beautiful, and he’s a goner. He’s always known it, but this moment right here, right now actually seals the deal.

“Why don’t you take a picture?” Naomi asks, jolting Ethan out of his thoughts. He feels her dainty foot running along the soft cotton of his pajama pants before traveling higher, lightly brushing his side.

He catches her foot, his strong hand wrapping around her ankle, and yanks her forward. “I don’t need to take a picture because the real thing is just fine.” Maintaining eye contact, Ethan presses a line of kisses from her ankle to the inside of her knee, smirking as he feels the goosebumps pop up along the trail he’s set. “God, it really doesn’t take much to get you going, huh?”

“Not when it involves you, no,” Naomi replies.

Ethan drops her leg unceremoniously. His hands wander until they’re hooked into the waistband of her lacy underwear, and he pulls them down quickly, deciding not to make a production of it. A hum of approval leaves his throat when he finds her already soaked for him. He runs a finger along her spreading the wetness around before pressing the single digit into her. “I like that answer.”

Her toes curl at the contact and Naomi grips the sheets beneath her. “Oh, fuck.”

“Christ, you’re tight.”

“It’s been a while,” Naomi admits, panting heavily. “The guy I was into ran off to another continent, and put us on ice.”

Ethan can tell by her tone that she’s merely teasing, but his heart still hammers wildly nonetheless. He wasted so much time, and for what? He slides another finger into her, enjoying the moan she gives him in return. “It appears I have some atoning to do, hmm?”

Naomi nods. “A lot of atoning.”

“Very well.”

She feels him remove his fingers, and nothing makes her head spin more. Lifting herself up by her elbows, Naomi glares down at Ethan. “What are you doing? You can’t just stop!”

“Relax.” Ethan forces Naomi back to her originally flat position. “I think you know better than anyone that I’m going to take good care of you.” She chooses not to respond, because they both know the answer to that is a resounding yes.

He spreads her thighs and Naomi shivers at the gleam in his eyes, positively engraved by the way he looks at her: all lust and hunger. Desperate for Ethan to actually do something, she tilts her hips up, hoping he’ll get the hint.

Ethan chuckles and places an open mouthed kiss on the inside of her thigh. She swears she can feel herself buzzing with anticipation, her insides on fire, and all she wants him to do is just touch her.

When he finally does, she’s shocked she doesn’t combust then and there. Her head tips back and a low groan tumbles from her lips, and her thighs clamp shut so tightly around Ethan’s head, she’d be apologetic if she wasn’t so far gone. Ethan doesn’t skip a beat though, his fingers digging into her thighs and spreading them apart, and then he’s back to his original mission.

Ethan’s tongue glides through her folds with ease, stroking her up and down a few times before closing his mouth around her clit and sucking hard. Her hips fly off the bed and she grinds into him with a reckless abandon she hasn’t felt in a really long time, but Ethan splays a strong hand across her stomach to hold her down, trapping her between him and his bed.

Trying to gain a modicum of power back, Naomi grips a handful of his hair and tugs at it roughly. It’s an action that makes Ethan growl, his mouth vibrating against her.

Her little moans and cries do nothing to help the raging ego Naomi claims he has, instead they only fuel him further. He ups the ante, his two fingers sliding back into her, curling in a come hither motion and pressing repeatedly against the spot that makes her see stars.

He can tell by the vice grip she has on his fingers and the way she’s undulating against him that she’s close. And while he’s content to draw this out for as long as humanly possible, until he’s wrung every little ounce of pleasure from her that he can, Ethan is well aware that the woman occupying his bed doesn’t have that type of patience.

Giving her a bit of reprieve, he takes his mouth off of her, only moving it slightly so he can kiss the soft flesh of her inner thigh.

“God, Ethan.”

“Say my name again, Rookie,” Ethan commands. “I promise I’ll make it worth your while.”

Naomi obeys without as much as a second thought. It doesn’t take much to get her to say his name again, the word coming out as a shout in between a broken cry. Ethan smirks, satisfied with his work, and his tongue finds her clit, stroking the tiny bundle a few more times until her orgasm zips through her with the intensity of a lightning strike. Her entire body tenses up as Ethan continues to lap at her, as she rides out the aftershocks.

When she’s finally in control of her senses again, the first thing Naomi notices is how absolutely wrecked Ethan looks, eyes red and glossy, mouth and beard soaked, and she wants to do nothing more than kiss him. So she does, grabbing the back of his head and pulling him back on top of her. She can taste herself on his mouth and it makes her moan.

Impatient, Naomi reaches between their bodies and tugs at the waistband of his pants. Ethan receives the message loud and clear, and he breaks the kiss to strip as quickly as he can. She watches as Ethan flings his shirt across the room and kicks off his pajama bottoms. He isn’t the only one with above average observation skills, and she notices the slight tremble in his hands, the anticipation as intense for him as it is for her. She’d be lying if she said reducing this great and powerful man to nothing more than a shaky mess isn’t a turn on. Once his boxers are gone, Naomi looks him up and down, every part of him still as she remembered.

Her eyes zero in on his erection, painfully hard. She wraps her hand around him, stroking firmly. “My my, doctor, if I didn’t know any better, I’d say you like me.”

The other four letter L-word rattles around in his brain, begging to be set free, and with more strength than he thought he had, Ethan manages to keep quiet. He’d never forgive himself for such selfishness if he blurted out he loves her in the middle of sex. Naomi has enough to deal with already without that added layer of complexity.

Ethan’s thoughts are interrupted, a sharp hiss passing through his teeth as he feels her tongue languidly glide across the swollen head of his erection before taking him fully in her mouth.

He doesn’t know what will kill him first: how good it feels, or the fact that she’s staring up at him with those fucking Disney princess eyes again, feigning innocence like she’s unaware of exactly what she does to him.

He allows her to get in one more stroke of her tongue before he grabs a fistful of her hair and pulls her away. One of her eyebrows raises in question. “What’s wrong? I was just getting started.”

He drags them back into bed before answering, “I need to be inside you. You can do whatever you want to me afterwards.”

She grins at the promise of a next time. Whatever she wants? “Don’t threaten me with a good time, Ramsey.”

“It’s not a threat, it’s a promise,” Ethan assures her.

Naomi feels him, poised at her entrance and she arches backwards, too overly sensitive. Ethan’s hands are back on her hips, holding her in place, and inch by inch, he fills her. They both groan at the sensation, familiar territory but something new entirely. Her hands fly to his back, nails digging into the skin as she’s stretched to maximum capacity, uncaring if she leaves marks.

Ethan is unsure of how long they’ve been like this, but he’s nearly shaking with the restraint it’s taking him to not thrust into her. He drops his head, kissing a line across her collarbone. “Fuck, baby, I need you to let me know when I can move.”

The pet name wasn’t intentional, spilling from Ethan’s lips before he could stop it, but Naomi whimpers regardless. She hooks her legs behind his back, keeping him just as trapped as she is. “Please.”

He moves slowly, partially to give her a chance to adjust to his size, the other reason because he doesn’t want it to be over as quickly as it started. This, being inside of her again, is overwhelming and Ethan can’t believe there was ever a time he thought he could go without.

“You’re incredible,” Ethan compliments.

“Okay, say it again when I’m not in your bed. Like during a team meeting where you’re shooting down my ideas.”

“You are,” Ethan insists.

He thrusts into her again, and Naomi cries out, nails raking at his back. Surely she’s broken skin at this point, but Ethan doesn’t care. He’s never been one for pain in bed, but with Naomi, he’s willing to make an allowance, especially since it leaves way for pleasure. They move in tandem, hips moving against each other, both trying to coax out the release that’s been building. Unable to do much of anything else, Ethan leans forward, kissing Naomi again. She meets him halfway, just as eager as he is.

Eventually she has to break the kiss, and she gasps in a large breath of air, her lungs constricting tightly in her rib cage. In her distracted moment, Ethan manages to free himself of her hands marking him relentlessly, and he captures both of her wrists in one fell swoop. He holds them above her head in one hand, pressing her as deep into the mattress as possible. The new angle catches her by surprise and she can’t do anything but gasp into the air above her.

“Please.” She doesn’t even know what she’s pleading for at this point, but it’s the only word her brain can comprehend so she chants it repeatedly like a prayer until she’s shattering around him, mouth open, head tipped back, skin flush and warm. She’s perfect like this, Ethan surmises.

It doesn’t take him more than a few more thrusts before Ethan’s own release takes control and he falls forward, leaning some of his weight onto Naomi. He doesn’t trust himself to not say or do something completely stupid, so he buries his face in the crook of her neck, biting down on the sensitive flesh.

It could’ve been mere minutes that they spent in that position, or it could’ve been hours for all Naomi knows, but when Ethan finally pulls out, he’s kissing her all over: her cheeks, her nose, her forehead.

He wraps her in a solid embrace, arms circling around her and holding her close, their erratic heart rates trying to slow down. Ethan feels at peace doing just this, holding her close to him, feeling the rise and fall of her chest.

Do you feel any better?”

That isn’t a question Naomi expects to hear right after sex, and it causes her to pause. After a few more moments of silence, she answers, “I mean, the endorphin release was great if that’s what you’re asking.”

“It’s not what I’m asking, and you know it.”

Naomi knew going into it that the sex wasn’t going to soothe all of her hurts and be the magical solution to her problems, so she doesn’t need some major “I-told-you-so” moment from him. But for the first time in almost a week, she feels like herself again. Within the confines of these four walls, Ethan didn’t treat her like some fragile little doll, and her mind was able to take a break from overthinking.

“It was nice to turn my brain off, if only for a short time,” Naomi replies. “It was nice to not be a captive to my trauma.”

Ethan’s fingers gently graze her scalp, massaging. “Do you think you’re ready to talk to me now?”

“No.”

She’s as stubborn as ever. “Fair enough. But if we were to talk about it, I would say that you went through something horrible and traumatic, and you have to allow yourself to actually feel and process whatever emotions you have. I’d also say that you are incredibly strong, but your strength doesn’t mean that you have to bottle everything inside in order to make everyone around you feel better, especially when you’re with me. Strong people have the right to be vulnerable too.” Ethan sighs. “But since we aren’t talking about it, I’m not going to say any of those things.”

Naomi curls in closer to Ethan, comforted by his body warmth. “I think I would really enjoy hearing those things if this was a conversation we were having.”

“Good. Now whenever you’re ready to talk, I’ll be prepared.”

“Thank you.”

“I think it’s what good boyfriends do. Or whatever the hell I am to you. That’s what you said, right?”

“Okay, I have an explanation for getting agitated about the technical definition of our relationship.”

“Oh yeah? I’d love to hear it.”

“I was impatient and horny.”

Ethan laughs, the warm and rich sound curling around her insides. It does more to help than she’ll ever be able to convey to him. “You’re also very honest.”

“To a fault at times, yes.”

A silence settled between them again, and Naomi feels her eyelids getting heavier. Maybe she’ll be able to finally get some real sleep, not the fitful unconsciousness she’s been subjected to for the past few days.

“Thank you for indulging me tonight,” Naomi says.

He’s going to suggest she talk to a therapist. He’s going to say it multiple times, until he’s blue in the face and she’s tired of listening. But he'll leave her alone for tonight.

“You’re welcome. Now, get some sleep. The sooner you get to bed, the sooner we wake up, and I can cook breakfast for you.”

“Mhmm, sounds like a plan, Ramsey.”

Ethan can feel her falling asleep on him. He presses a kiss into her forehead. “Naomi?”

“Hmm?”

“For the record, I am definitely your boyfriend.”

~v~

tags: @maurine07 @aka-calliope @edgiestwinter @soft-for-drake @greenbean-kylie @akshara16 @mrsramseyy @honeyandsunfl0wers @blossomanarchy @takemyopenheart @fanmantrashcan @whatchique @ao719 @x-kyne-x @colourmeshy @paulfwesley @writinghereandthere @ramseyandrys @perriewinklenerdie @aworldoffandoms @thatcatlady0716 @drakewalker04 @canknot @hatescapsicum @lapisreviewsstuff @senseofduties @badchoicesposts @ethandaddyramsey @chasingrobbie @zodiacsign1 @choices-lurker @trappedinfandoms @my-heart-beats-for-ya @adrian-motherfucking-raines @riverrune @edith-eggs1 @thatysn @bellcat2010 @theeccentricbibliophile @cecilecontrera @junehiratas @choices-love-affair @openheart12 @caseyvalentineramsey @desmaranj @nazario-sayeed @aestheticartsx @ruinedbypixels @mvalentine @nooruleman @rookie-ramsey

#open heart #open heart 2 #ethan ramsey #dr. ethan ramsey #ethan x mc #ns*fw #ns/fw

260 notes · View notes

beepfuckingbeeprichie · 4 years ago

Text

Some thoughts from tua season 2, a little out of order

Finding love in a facility trope. I hate it. I hate it when it’s set in mental institutions, when it’s set in rehabs, when it’s set in recovery houses. They are there to get better, and to get better you can’t lean on someone who is also trying to get better. They will lean on you back. You inevitable become each other’s enablers. This doesn’t wholly apply to Diego and Lila since neither of them were really crazy, but I still hate that that’s where they met

Manic pixie Lila IMMEDIATELY pisses me off

Also we need to travel back in time to fix Diego’s hair, good lord

Luther self destructing isn’t new. He was never leadership material, but old man Hargreeves built him up on the pedestal. Diego too. You know who has real leadership skills? ALLISON. Five too, but he’s a lil aggressive ab it

“Dad should’ve left him on the moon.” Big facts

Oh the latent homoeroticism of being hit by a car

So Vanya, number five, and Luther walk into a bar—

“Imagine batman, but aim lower”

Is it just me or did they change how they animate I heard a rumor? I remember distinctly the chills I got every time I heard the way Allison’s voice rippled and the stillness of the air around it

I wouldn’t change Allison’s casting for the world, but I am disappointed that she can’t get away with disguising herself as Jackie Kennedy and killing the president by telling him she heard a rumor that she blew his mind

There was a nice reference to this in the beginning tho!

If I can force feed Luther a little more respect women juice we might be able to make a himbo out of him yet

Also Luther don’t fucking touch Allison and Ray. I stan them. They’re the OTP.

Vanya, at the hair salon with Klaus and Allison: “wait... aren’t we all brother and sister?” Sis called Allison and Luther OUT

It’s interesting to see that the rumors are addictive to Allison. She refrains from using it and loves that everything she has in her life is from her own work towards it. The second ray asks her to use it, you can see her control slipping. Especially in the diner scene. She knows what she’s doing is wrong, but the feeling of power is overwhelming. You can see the regret when Ray snaps her out of it. It was like she was a different person... the kind of person who would rumor her kid to sleep

“C’mon Diego, you’re really gonna walk away?” no he’s going to sprint away

Five can have a little killing spree. As a treat.

I will take this moment to say I fucking love Five with all that I am. It’s funny to me that compared to his older self, it’s so clear that five is so mean bc he’s been trapped inside is tiny little body again. The smaller he is, the more rage builds up. Best character, 10/10

“There’s been a coup de tat!”

“What’s that, a Cadillac?”

“Vanya’s the bomb... Vanya will always be the bomb.” CHILLS

Okay so Vanya always causing the apocalypse is string theory. Klaus causing Dave to sign up for the war early is the butterfly effect. DOES TIME TRAVEL HAVE NO RULES HERE?

Lila realizing Diego left as the background rings “loyalty isn’t a choice, it’s a lifestyle”

“Number seven chooses not to remember.”

The symbolism inside of Vanya’s head. She feels so small and out of control that she’s literally trapped inside her white violin, a weapon of destruction that she herself weilded

Aiden Gallagher’s aggressive walk is everything

“I’M THE DADDY HERE!” Following a spot on psycho analysis of Luther

The family love towards Vanya this season is truly the good shit

There are seven brain cells. Allison and Vanya each have one. Klaus has none, but Ben has one so he keeps him alive. Luther and Diego share half a brain cell. Five has four and a half.

DO THEY WANT TO USE STRING THEORY OR BUTTERFLY EFFECT MAKE UP YOUR MIND AND GET YOUR TIME TRAVEL STRAIGHT AND YES I KNOW TIME ISNT LINEAR ITS AN EXPRESSION SUE ME

Happy to see another wonder baby, but my dislike of Lila cancels that out

“Wait, we’re not actually related right?” Diego and Luther should start a club

When Carl tried to shoot his son... Harlan really said reverse uno lol

180 notes · View notes

silvrlines · 3 years ago

Text

Did you see VINCENT “V” from CYBERPUNK 2077 walking around Limbo? The CIS MALE looks like DJ COTRONA, and is THIRTY-FOUR years old. I’ve heard he can be DILIGENT & RELIABLE but also IMPULSIVE & STUBBORN. When I think of them I think of NEON LIGHTS CASTING AN EERY GLOW, A WARM MEAL PAIRED WITH HARD LIQUOR AT EL COYOTE COJO, & A COLLECTION OF TATTOOS ACTING AS MEMOIRS OF A FORMER LIFE. They’ve been here WITH their memories as the OWNER of BEDLAM NIGHTCLUB for THREE YEARS. I heard they’re still trying to figure out how they ended up in Limbo.

ok so this v is from the street kid lifepath; he grew up in the heywood district of night city, raised by gangs, ditched night city for a couple years to stay in atlanta, only to realize it wasn’t quite the same and evidently returned to night city woo.

el coyote cojo was like a second home to him, usually ending up there after an eventful day to tend to his wounds and drink to heal his damaged pride. guadalupe welles ( better known as mama welles ) always welcomed him with a homecooked meal and a bottle of beer.

while recovering from a fight one night, v agreed to help the bartender settle a debt by stealing a rayfield aerondight from a corpo agent. this is where he met his soon to be best friend and partner in crime; jackie welles.

after he managed to break into the car and start it up, v was stopped by none other than jackie, who was also trying to steal the luxury car. however, neither did the deed as the cops showed up and arrested them both on scene. they were ordered to be killed by the car’s owner ( kaoru fujioka ) but instead were knocked out and left bloodied in an alleyway of heywood.

after that shitshow, v and jackie properly introduced themselves. how quickly they bonded over their similarities lead to jackie inviting v for a meal, and thus began a partnership with one goal in mind: becoming legends of night city.

v stayed with jackie and mama welles for six months, doing mercenary jobs with the former welles while improving his street cred, until he managed to save up enough money to rent an apartment of his own. life was good. however, v was unaware how drastically his life was about to change after being contacted by a well-known fixer.

dexter deshawn hired v, jackie, & t-bug ( a netrunner ) to steal a relic from the heir to the arasaka empire who basically owned night city ( the yorinobu arasaka ). the preparation went better than expected, especially considering he had to deal with the notoriously volatile maelstrom gang lol, and as the crew undertook the heist & successfully swiped the relic, v honestly thought that this was the big break that was going to skyrocket jackie and himself to the big leagues.

that all went to shit. yorinubo’s dad, saburo, showed up unannounced and ended up getting murdered by his own son - hidden v and jackie witnessing the entire ordeal. shit hit the fan, security immediately increased within the building, and sadly v was the only survivor from their crew, the others falling victim to arasaka’s brutal forces.

the relic’s casing was critically damaged, forcing v to slot it into his shard to preserve it. an action that would save him but also almost kill him in the long run. save him, because deshawn ended up betraying v at the rendezvous point via a gunshot to the head, then disposing his body at a landfill on the outskirts of night city, but the relic’s presence in his body later revived him. almost kill him, because unbeknownst to v, the relic contained an engram of johnny silverhand that was slowly overriding his own consciousness.

and then a whole lot of missions later, with plenty of mid life crisis’ and new friends ( and enemies ) made, v chose panam in the end, and ditched night city with the aldecaldos.

while he doesn’t remember exactly how they ended up in limbo?? he’s made the best of it. it lowkey reminds him of night city and, instead of starting at the bottom all over again, v was quick to snag one of the more prominent clubs as his own, turning it into his own ‘afterlife’.

he’s got a thing for cars and panam though, so if he’s not brooding at bedlam, v can usually be found at aldecaldo repairs.

#limbchq: intro #———— 💊 . 𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘵 ❛ 𝘷 ❜ ╱ intro .

4 notes · View notes

browneyedmissy · 5 years ago

Text

The Way I Loved You

Pairing: Rafael Aveiro x Casey Valentine

Summary: The moments where Casey and Rafael realized they loved each other: they just never said it out loud until it was too late. Prequel to Like a Friend

Author's Note: Hey y'all, it's ya girl Missy back at it again with the angst for the Raf romancers writing at stupid late hours again. Happy one week into OH hiatus or happy 10 months(?) since a Raf diamond scene 😭

"You never told me you loved me when we were together." Rafael said, his hand twitching as he wanted to reach over to touch her.

"Well, you didn't either." Casey said, blinking back tears as she looked down. "Doesn't matter anymore."

Part I: Rafael

Rafael knew he was in love when he was in love when he realized that she fit into his life and he wanted all his days and nights to be spent with her.

She had invited her out to dinner with her and her friends from her hospital. He had seen them around, recognized a few of their faces but she was the only one he had really ever talked to. Doctors were friendly enough, he observed, but they mostly mostly hung out with each other because of the shared camraderie of medical school and residency.

And sitting there, listening to Casey's friends talk, he wasn't quite sure what he could add to the conversation.

"Do you really have an early morning, Raf?" Casey asked later as they walked towards the subway.

He put his hands in his pockets, giving her a shrug. "Your friends are really nice people, Casey. I just... I don't really know if I fit in with doctors that have ivy league credentials and are going to solve pandemics."

They both looked towards Jackie's direction as she shouted something about karaoke towards their directions. He watched as Casey looked towards her friends and then back to him.

"If you want to, you can come with me to see the neighborhood I grew up in."

She grinned at him, biting her lip. "Do I get my own private tour guide?"

He chortled. "I think I can arrange that."

Her face lit up and he felt his heart thump as she ran over to her friends and exchanged a few words with them, nodding his way. She waved goodbye to them before heading back to him, taking his hand. He squeezed it as she smiled.

"Let's go."

They walked hand in hand as they walked down the street in the warm humid heat, greeting his neighbors as they went. He led her a side road, taking her down to the park he went to often as a child with his family, fond memories of running around with his uncle and his mother.

Casey grinned as she ran straight over the swing set, sitting down and looking up at him as he stepped behind her.

"When was the last time you came to the park and just let yourself play?" He asked her.

"I don't remember the last time, to be honest." She admitted. "School didn't come as easily to me until I figured out I really liked science so I spent a lot of time studying. But I always liked being on the swings as a kid because I think it was the closest thing to flying."

He nodded, moving to take the swing next to her.

"I used to come here with my uncle a lot. He was the one who taught me how to fly the helicopter. He used to tell me that as hard as the world was, it was important to remember why we always try and look for the good in the world."

He closed his eyes for a moment, thinking about times where he helped his uncle rebuild houses after storms, shoveling snow for neighbors. When his uncle passed, Rafael's heart was broken because the good that he had put into the world was gone and he had cried when everyone his uncle had touched stood in the crowd as his uncle was laid to rest.

"You miss him, don't you?"

He looked over at her and gave her a sad smile as she reached for his hand. "All the time."

"He taught you well. Everyone in this neighborhood adores you."

"Oh, if you think everyone adores me, they loved my uncle." Rafael smiled fondly. "I just hope I am even the fraction of who he was."

She let go of his hand moved so she was in front of him, hands covering his on the chains of the swing. With her standing, he observed, she was at eye level with him. At this distance, he could smell the lavender of her body wash and the way light of streetlamp backlit her made her look almost ethereal.

"You, Rafael Aveiro, are the most kindhearted compassionate person I have ever met. I've never met your uncle, but if he is anything like you, he would be so incredibly proud."

He grinned and leaned in, pressing a light kiss to her lips.

"Come on, I want you to meet someone."

He walked Casey into the kitchen of his grandmother's house, breathing in the scent of chocolate. He smiled at the picture of Casey sitting down at the table and his grandmother brought a plate of brigadeiros to the table, as if this was a common occurrence.

"Casey, how do you know my grandson?" She asked as Rafael took a spot next to Casey.

"Hospital, vovo." He said as he popped a chocolate ball into into his mouth.

"Yup. He brought in a pregnant woman from a burning building."

He smiled fondly as he thought about the moment he had gotten Dolores- rest her soul, out of the ambulance. Casey had been standing there, biting her lip in worry before looking up at him. He remembered as she blinked at him, surprised before flashing him a smile and his heart had fluttered.

"Oh, he told me about that! So you're the pretty doctor he told me about!" She exclaimed.

Rafael felt his face heat as he coughed down his chocolate. He felt a hand on his back and he looked at Casey who was hiding a smile.

"Mmm, pretty doctor, Rafael? Do you have a crush on me or something?" She teased.

He grinned as he pressed a quick kiss to her cheek. "You know I do."

"It was nice to meet you, Casey." His grandmother said as she walked them to the door. She pressed a bag of bridagdeiros into her hands as she gave her a hug. "I know my grandson is in good hands."

Rafael blushed as he hugged his grandmother goodbye.

"Bye, vovo."

"I like this one a lot, Raf. I love you, come see me again soon."

He waved her goodbye as he and Casey walked down the street. He threw an arm around her, bring her in close to his side and smiled at the way she nestled into it.

"That meant a lot to me, Casey. Thank you for coming and thank you for coming after me." He said, pressing a kiss to the top of her head.

"Thank you for showing me your world, Raf."

He paused when she came to a stop and she turned to face him.

"Teach me how to dance?"

His heart swelled as he placed an hand on the small of her back, bringing her in close and feeling her heartbeat against his chest. He had the sudden longing to have more nights like that, wishing they could always be as close as they were in that moment.

Part II: Casey

Underneath the flickering hospital lights, she realized she loved him.

Every inch of her was completely exhausted. From Naveen's diagnosis to Ramsey's departure, she had hardly had a chance to catch her breath when the triage began. And then, after hours of diagnosing patients, after countless faces, that was when her worst nightmare happened.

When Rafael was wheeled in, her body wouldn't move. She had desperately hoped that she was in a nightmare and she would wake up any moment.

"He's in critical condition." She vaguely heard Harper saying in the background. Casey felt like the air was being sucked out of her lungs, looking down at Raf's face and tears began welling in her eyes as she scrambled to recall her last memory with him.

"Casey." A hand on her shoulder jerked herself away from Rafael and she looked up to see Bryce with a concerned look on his face. "I know this might be hard, but we could really use you in there. Raf will have a better chance if we had some compatant extra hands in there."

She blinked to see Rafael being wheeled into an operating room and Harper giving orders before heading to the scrub room.

"Rafael-" She choked out.

"We're going to do our best, Case. Harper Emery is a better surgeon than I am and I'm pretty damn good."

"I didn't get to say- what if he- Bryce, I can't remember the last thing I said to him."

He squeezed her shoulder, his eyes sympathetic.

"I'm going to go help Doctor Emery to make sure you can have more memories with him. Go take a second for yourself and breathe. If you feel up to helping us save your boyfriend, we'll be in operating room 3."

She stood there in a daze as Bryce left and thought about Raf, unmoving on that operating table. She swallowed down the sob that threatened to break and took a deep breath before following after him.

After the longest six hours of her life, she was finally let go as Rafael was declared stable. She let out the biggest breath as she stood in the shower afterwards, letting the water wash away the smell of the operating room and the images of Raf on the table.

She closed her eyes, willing them away and searched her brain for the moments that warmed her heart: the way her heart skipped a beat when she found him chatting at the nurse's station with an almond milk latte in his hand for her, the feel of his hands in hers as they danced underneath the stars, and the warmth of his arms as he comforted her after she learned that Teresa Martinez died.

She thought about how his presence had instantly in the moment made her relax. She couldn't get him close enough as he held her, listening to the steady thump of his heartbeat.

She glanced around the empty locker room. For the first time since the beginning of the triage, she was finally alone. The tears she had been holding in finally burst and she let herself cry, her tears washing away down the drain.

She sat down in the chair next to Rafael. She watched as his chest moved up and down with his breathing and felt her muscles relaxing with every rise and fall. Her eyes moved to his face, bruised but still achingly beautiful and she reached to move his hair off of his forehead.

She watched as he stirred, moving his hand to reach the one covering his.

"Casey?" He murmured as his eyes opened, squinting at her. He tried to sit up and her heart broke as he winced. "What happened?"

"You came in and you-" She choked back her words. "I thought I lost you, Raf. I was so scared, I couldn't stand losing someone I have feelings for."

"I'm sorry I worried you." He said quietly. Then, with a soft smile. "You have feelings for me?"

"If that's not obvious by now, I haven't been doing a good job."

He reached out and touched her cheek with the back of his hand.

"I didn't want to assume. But I hoped you felt the same way."

She nodded, her heart in her throat.

"Is there any room there for me?" She asked as he scooched over. She nestled into his side, feeling the weight of his arm around her. She felt the thud of his heartbeat again and reminded herself that Rafael was still there and they still had time together.

She looked up to admire the soft wave of his hair, the shadows that accentuated the strong line of his jaw and the high points of his cheekbone, and his warm eyes, bright as they looked down at her.

"You're beautiful." She said in wonder.

He let out a laugh and Casey decided it was the most beautiful sound in the world.

"You make my heart beat faster. You know, not in a medically dangerous way, but it just feels... You know. Content."

She closed the gap between them, feeling his lips on hers. His hand found itself in her hair as he moved her closer to him.

She found herself desperate to just stay in this moment, where he was safe and here with her. She wondered for a brief second if he could feel the wetness of her tears as he pulled away, his cheeks flushed.

"Well, I'm not going to joke that it was worth it to get crushed under rubble to kiss you." He joked, smiling at her with warm eyes. "But for the record, it was."

She felt her breath catch in her throat as she wanted to laugh and cry at the same time. Only this boy, the one who had come in, still and unmoving on the gurney could bring her to tears and heartache but also make her her heart swell this way.

Casey never really understood when people said that they felt like time stopped and everything melted away. But in this moment, the only thing she could see and hear was Rafael Aveiro with his kind selfless heart and the words of adoration.

"When did you realize?"

Raf couldn't say the word love out loud- it cut his heart too deep, brought up too much heartache he wasn't ready to face yet.

"That night of the triage. When you joked about how it was worth being crushed by rubble to kiss me."

He willed his heartbeat to be quieter as he held her close.

"The night you came with me to see my vovo. When we danced underneath the stars."

Tags:

@heauxplesslydevoted @hatescapsicum @cora-nova @princess-geek @flyawayboo @sunnyxdazed @loveellamae @my-remedy-is-euphoria @narrytheworld @drakewalker04 @annekebbphotography @drakewalkerfantasy @infinitiestones

#missywrites #open heart #playchoices #rafael aveiro #rafael x mc

21 notes · View notes

ninetyfivepercentdantomasik · 5 years ago

Photo

Great Characters: Tohru (Jackie Chan Adventures)

Everyone has their favorite character types. The Lone Gunslinger, the Wandering Samurai, the Wacky Sidekick, the Wise Mentor, the Maniacal Villain, and on & on. One of my favorite character types is an unusual one, “Developed Henchmen”. Characters who begin as dumb muscle but develop into fully rounded individuals. That love originated from one character from the animated series Jackie Chan Adventures, Tohru.

Tohru began as what you’d call “the big thug”. Literally, he’s about 8ft tall and 6ft wide of equal parts bulk and muscle, working for a criminal enterprise as their enforcer. He is who Valmont calls when he wants things done. He is shown in the opening theme as the first Huge Threat for Jackie to take down in a single (albeit painful) punch. His role in any episode is to do what Valmont’s other, less reliable henchmen can not; get results. Dirty work, heavy work, and generally Big Work. Tohru is not a talker. The majority of his lines in the first season are less than four words.

“The shield.”

“The talisman.”

“The pig.”

“What?”

“Chan.”

“I hate fish.”

“Mmm. Peppy.”

That said, the main motif for Tohru’s character is to, somewhat humorously, add weight (both figuratively and literally) to any situation. And it works. For having the losing record he does against the Chans, he is never seen as a threat to be taken lightly. Tohru’s involvement always means things just got a whole lot harder. Be it a fight, a chase, or a pie-eating contest.

Following the end of the first season, where Tohru is ordered by Valmont to fight a Demon Sorcerer and is finger-flicked across a room, through a set of doors, down a hallway, into an elevator shaft, out of an elevator shaft, out of a skyscraper and into a neighboring skyscraper, Tohru begins to question his choice of employment. In his first act towards repairing the damage he’s helped cause, he gives Uncle the information needed to address this new threat.

“The demon’s name is Shendu.”

There’s no interrogation, no trickery, and no obligation demanded in exchange for the Chans treating his wounds, it’s Tohru’s own decision to help. And with that one single action, Tohru starts a new life with the Chans.

It is in many ways like his old life. He is still often used for his size and strength against magical and non-magical threats. However, in a surprising turn, Tohru also begins learning Chi Magic from Uncle. As the series progresses, the amount of time he spends fighting decreases, while the amount of time he spends doing research, learning spells, performing rituals, working in the shop, and engaging in casual conversation increases dramatically. Some of it is used for comic effect. It adds a strange and humorous tension to see a giant man holding a small pufferfish between his fingers speaking magic words rapidly. The fourth season brings Tohru even further into the forefront as he, being of Japanese heritage, must be the one to create the spells, rituals, and potions needed to combat the Oni Generals and their tribes of Shadowkhan, not Uncle. He succeeds, and while Tohru may never be seen as the formidable magic expert Uncle is, he ends the series as the one who deduces the method of banishing the demon threat once and for all. Tohru’s last scene is receiving the title and rank of “Chi Wizard” by Uncle. It’s an incredibly proud last note for a character who began as just a Big Thug.

Between that start and end, Tohru remains a prominent character in the series, appearing in more than 3/4 of the episodes. Again, somewhat humorously, he never has a small part in an episode. The character has such a presence that even the smallest acts make a big impact. Not just fighting, but listening to Jade talk about her problems, helping Jackie look after Jade, helping Uncle with the shop, etc. Each of the Chans come to see Tohru as more than just size & strength. Uncle sees motivation to learn and respect for one’s elders, two traits in short supply around the shop. Jackie sees responsibility and humility, traits he wishes to teach Jade. Jade sees someone who knows what it feels like to be invisible to other people. As for the nature of the show itself, if someone can knock Tohru aside, that’s all the proof we need for a higher level of “Bad Day”.

He builds a relationship with Jade that’s particularly powerful. Jade, who loves her uncle Jackie and can always think of ways Tohru can help, pushes him to get involved and help keep everyone safe. Tohru, knowing what Jade means to Jackie as well as what it means to have no one listen to you, is always there for her, looks out for her, believes in her, and tries to be the good guy she thinks he can be. In such a short time, Tohru has become protective enough of Jade that he at one point threatens to turn his former master Valmont inside-out if anything should happen to her. This culminates in one of Tohru’s greatest moments in the J-Team’s first official mission to a Shady Martial Arts Tournament, which goes very, very, poorly. The tournament is such unfamiliar territory for the group that each member ends up a combination of defeated, crippled, or knocked out. This leaves Tohru as their last chance of gaining access to the inner workings of the operation, in a fighting format he insists he is, of all things, “too small” for, Sumo. Jade does everything she can to teach and encourage Tohru, believing he will do great. The show does a spectacular job of showing just how debilitating Tohru’s reluctance and lack of self-esteem can be, with Jade knocking him clear across the room and onto his butt. His reluctance proves well-founded, as his opponent is to Tohru what a Large Fries is to a Small. Tohru remembers Jade’s advice to, as someone so small and easily dismissed, “think big”, and in a colossal display of sheer determination, Tohru lifts his opponent clear off the ground, teeters uncertainly, then brings the champion sumo down with a CRASH that lifts everyone off the ground. It pays to listen to Jade.

We come to see the big bad Tohru as a gentle man who seeks only to be accepted and appreciated. A man who gives everything he can to help others, and always puts his needs behind theirs. He doesn’t like attention or making a big scene. Or fish. He much prefers the smaller, quieter things in life. Like kittens. He doesn’t mind doing chores or menial work around the shop, and actually seems to enjoy the more mundane lifestyle. Now, I don’t want it to seem that this means Tohru has an inherent sense of subservience. Tohru is not, nor is he ever treated, as a slave or servant. The situation is never one-sided with Tohru doing everything while everyone else does nothing. He is a paid employee of Uncle, an apprentice in Chi Magic, an agent for Section 13, and a valued member of the J-Team. Tohru definitely struggles with self-esteem, possibly a result of his upbringing from his demanding mother, a short woman with big expectations from her son that he never seemed to be able to meet.

The Chans have shown they are willing to traverse the globe to support him, including an episode in which Tohru is believed to be the reincarnated Chosen One of an ancient order. He is barred from doing any manual labor, including carrying his own suitcase off a plane, which clearly bothers him. For an introvert, there is nothing worse than getting so-called “special treatment” while everyone else has to struggle. Tohru is the kind of person who prefers being treated equally, as opposed to treated differently. This may be part of why he values Jade’s friendship so much. She sees him as a friend and a person, not just a giant. The first and often only thing people notice about Tohru is his size, and as tough as he is, there are moments where he clearly wishes he were more normal. In Jade’s eyes, Tohru is a regular guy, and that means more to him than anything in the world.

All this development turns that most disposable of characters, the “big henchman” into a vital and essential part of the dynamic, the story, and the entire world of a show. While I don’t expect this level of development from every program I watch, I always have a soft spot for any henchman character given a chance to do something besides grunt, fire wildly, be a dick, and/or get beat up. I believe in a great series even the lowliest of characters can make a difference, and if a series can’t use a character more than once, any success it finds can only be temporary.

#great characters #tohru #jackie chan adventures #jackie chan #j team #jade #chan #uncle #jackie #valmont #sumo #henchman #henchmen #good writing #good characters

126 notes · View notes

zen3to5 · 5 years ago

Text

J/H 5-06: Over the Hills and Far Away

This was an interesting case, the one page-one rewrite of Season 5. I really like this episode as it is, and I think it's one of the best of the fifth season - overall, and for J/H. But because of the rewrites done to "Eric's Naughty No-No," Hyde's dilemma about fidelity here would be redundant. So, I've come up with something else for him and Jackie in this timeline...

(Following production order, we assume that episode 5-05, "Ramble On," played out as we know it, without changes.)

FF.Net AO3

***

SHOW TITLE INT. FORMAN KITCHEN - NIGHT Suppertime. RED, HYDE, and ERIC are at the kitchen table, with dinner laid out before them. KITTY, with a last tray of food, scurries over and takes her seat. KITTY: Okay. So, is everyone ready for our big trip to the University of Wisconsin? ERIC: Yeah, Donna and I have it all mapped out. She is going to buy a tight sweater with a big red “W” on it, and I am going to watch her wear it. Red looks up from his meal, glares at Eric. ERIC (cont’d): (to Red) And then we’re gonna buckle down. KITTY: Steven, honey, are you sure you don’t want to come with us? HYDE: No thanks, Mrs. Forman. I’m not the college type. I get my learnin’ on the street. RED: (to Hyde) That reminds me – all the beer’s coming out of the house. All the wine, too. Anything with alcohol, I’m moving out of here tonight. So if you somehow cut yourself while we’re gone, pack it with ice and hope to God you reach the hospital in time. HYDE: You’re thinking of what happened last New Years’ Eve, aren’t you? RED: See there – you’ve got the smarts for college. KITTY: (to Eric) Well, I just can’t believe my baby is all grown up and visiting college. (beat) I am so freaking old! ERIC: And menopause makes another unwelcome appearance at the dinner table. Kitty starts fanning herself. The patio door opens, and DONNA enters the kitchen. Eric stands to meet her. ERIC (cont’d): Hey, there’s my favorite co-ed. Hey, you all packed for visitors’ weekend? DONNA: I can’t go. My dad is making me visit Marquette instead. He thinks it’s a better school ‘cause it’s private. Oh, and ‘cause it sounds French. ERIC: Well, you know what? We’ll just go with you. I mean, if it’s a better school, then I belong there too. Right, Dad? RED: No. State schools are cheap. That’s where you belong. ERIC: Well, what if, like, you took out a second mortgage on the house? Red and Hyde both laugh. RED: Not for you, dumbass.

MAIN CREDITS BUMPER INT. DONNA’S BEDROOM - NIGHT Shortly after dinner. As Eric watches, Donna packs for visitors’ weekend. DONNA: I have a bad feeling about this weekend, Eric. Nothing good can come from us visiting different schools. ERIC: Well, yeah, but there’s an upside. Two days apart... I mean, when we get together, it’s gonna be electric, baby. Like a thunderstorm. DONNA: Eric, I’m serious. I mean, what if we actually end up going to different colleges and we’re apart for four years? ERIC: Well, then, come semester break, you’d better board up your windows, ‘cause guess what? Here comes Hurricane Eric. DONNA: Board up my windows? What are my windows? And, whatever they are, wouldn’t you want them open? ERIC: Mmm. Donna tries to keep packing, but Eric moves in closer. ERIC (cont’d): Look, Donna, all I’m saying is that I think we can get through anything. I mean, we go to different schools now and we’re fine, because our love is strong. Like a big, burly bear. So zip up your tent, ‘cause guess what? This bear has claws. DONNA: Again, wouldn’t you want my tent open? ERIC: Mmm. BUMPER EXT. FORMAN KITCHEN - DAY The next morning, pre-trip. Red and Hyde stand by the sink, sipping sodas. Eric comes in from the living room, dressed for the road with a backpack slung over his shoulders. RED: Hold it, Son. Now, before we hit the road, we need to have a talk about that horrible thing that’s taken over your mother. ERIC: You mean her change of life? HYDE: I thought we were calling it the lady parts problem. RED: It goes by many names. Now we’re dealing with a tricky enemy here. I haven’t been this frosty since Korea. And, just like a commie, it can jump out and attack you at any moment. KITTY (v.o.): Red, honey? HYDE: Incoming! ERIC: Retreat! Hyde rushes down to the basement while Eric breaks for the patio door. They clear out just as Kitty enters from the living room. KITTY: Red, um, you know, I’ve been a tad bit moody lately. So, um, if you don’t want me to go on this trip, I’ll understand. RED: Well, you know, honey, there’s really no need for you to go. DONNA: I knew you didn’t want me to go! Well, I am going whether you like it or not! (Stars fanning herself) Why is it so damn hot in here? It’s like... it’s like we’re living in Hell! She storms back out into the living room. RED: You can say that again. He sighs and nurses his soda. CUT TO: INT. FORMAN BASEMENT - DAY A truncated gang all share the couch – Hyde, JACKIE, and FEZ. WACKY RACES plays on the TV. Jackie’s eyes, however, are on Hyde, and she sits in as coy a pose as she can. JACKIE: So, Steven, you have the whole house to yourself this weekend. HYDE: Yeah, but the Formans are all on edge dealing with all the menopause crap, so I’m playing it safe. We’ll have to take the party on the road. (to Fez) All set, buddy? FEZ: Ten-four, amigo. I got the jumbo size this time. JACKIE: (to Hyde) What is he talking about? HYDE: Saturday night, man. We cruise around, stop by the high school, and throw eggs at the football practice. FEZ: And then I spend most of Monday running from the football team. Their catch rate is down – I’m really building up my speed. JACKIE: What? Steven, don’t you remember last week? You finally called me your girlfriend. Hyde shrugs; he doesn’t get it. JACKIE (cont’d): We’re officially a couple now. HYDE: All right. So? JACKIE: So, don’t you think we should spend Saturday night together? HYDE: Hey, you can come if you want. They’ve caught us on the field a few times. We could use your high kicks. JACKIE: I don’t want to spend our first official Saturday as a couple fighting the football team with Fez. FEZ: Oh, Jackie, you know there is a good chance I’d be with you wherever you two went for your Saturday night. Jackie and Hyde both turn to glare at him; he pulls back to his end of the couch as far as he can. CUT TO: EXT. FORMAN DRIVEWAY – DAY Concurrent with the previous scene. Eric and Red finish packing up the Vista Cruiser as Kitty comes out from the kitchen, dressed for the trip. KITTY: Red, honey, you know, I’m sorry about our little spat. The last thing I wanna do is ruin our trip. RED: Oh, sweetheart, that’s okay. He smiles, gives her a quick kiss. Kitty giggles and goes into the Vista Cruiser. ERIC: Wow. Mom certainly cheered up. RED: Don’t be fooled. She’s a ticking time bomb. They start around the car when KELSO comes running through the garage, an envelope stuck onto his jacket. KELSO: Hey, wait up! RED: What do you want? KELSO: The explanation’s pinned to my lapel. Red takes the envelope off Kelso and opens the note inside. RED: (reading) “Dear Red, Mr. Kelso and I are unable to take Michael to UW. Here’s thirty dollars so he can go with you.” He checks the envelope; it’s empty. RED (cont’d): (to Kelso) Where’s the thirty bucks? KELSO: Oh, I bought this electronical football game. He holds the game up. RED: I swear to God, Kelso! You make Eric look like Einstein! Eric pulls a “touched” face, puts his hand on his heart. ERIC: Thank you, Daddy. KELSO: (scoffs) “Thank you?” Einstein was ugly. He and Eric move to get in the car as Red rolls his eyes. CUT TO: EXT. OPEN ROAD - DAY The Vista Cruiser speeds down the highway. Red and Kitty sit up front, Eric and Kelso in back. The noise from Kelso’s football game fills the car. Kitty tugs furiously at her collar. KITTY: Oh! It’s like a sauna in here. I wish you all didn’t have to breathe so much. ERIC: All right, Kelso, you heard the lady. No more breathing. KITTY: (to Eric) No, I didn’t tell you not to breathe, I told you not to breathe as much. There’s a difference! RED: (sighs) Eric, how far are we from the exit? Eric glances out the window at the mile markers. ERIC: Um... we just missed it. RED: Dammit! You’re supposed to be following the map. What the hell are you doing back there? Eric holds up the map – folded into a crown. ERIC: Making you a crown, ‘cause you’re king of the road! He pops the crown on his head, then clutches at his stomach. ERIC (cont’d): Whoa. That last soda’s made it through. Can we pull off to use the bathroom? KELSO: First and goal! RED: When’s the next damn exit? ERIC: Bit of an emergency here. KELSO: Touchdown! KITTY: Would you all just shut up! She cranks the A/C and takes a few deep breaths, as the men all do their best to pretend not to be there. CUT TO: INT. FORMAN KITCHEN – DAY Eggs, eggs, and more eggs! Seven full cartons of eggs cover the kitchen table. Hyde and Fez stand around the table and inspect the eggs, all grins. Jackie leans against the island, pouting. FEZ: (to Hyde) This is going to be a good one. The new halfback, Hunter Williams, poured tomato sauce down my pants during lunch on Thursday. Well, Hunter, let’s see how you like egg yolks all over your ass. Hyde cackles, looks over at Jackie. She looks away. HYDE: What, first you’re not coming, now you’re giving me the silent treatment? (to Fez) Talk about your win-win. They both laugh. Jackie starts for the door to the living room. Hyde sighs, catches her by the arm, and turns her around. HYDE (cont’d): Come on. This’ll be fun. We’re gonna be trespassing, vandalizing school property, and sticking it to the Man. It’s everything I’ve been trying to teach you, honey. Jackie is not amused. HYDE (cont’d): Jackie, this is what I do on the weekends, okay? JACKIE: Steven, we’re a couple now. Weekends aren’t just about what you do. They’re about what we do, together. And there’s a ballroom dance class at the rec center tonight, so you get rid of those eggs and put on a clean shirt! HYDE: Ballroom dancing? I’d have to punch myself in the head just for walking into that class. Look, I made my plans, and I told you you could tag along. Are you in or out? Jackie glares up at him; he glares back. She pushes past him and strolls out the patio door. Hyde sighs and sits down at the kitchen table, where Fez is still counting eggs. He holds one up and nods approvingly. FEZ: This one is for the quarterback. What he did, I am too much of a man to say. But when this egg reaches the place it is meant to reach... oh, he will know. He stands up straighter as Hyde puts a hand over his shades. CUT TO: INT. DORM HALL – DAY The University of Wisconsin campus. Visitors’ weekend may have drawn a lot of kids and parents, but it hasn’t inspired any spirit of cleanliness; Animal House would be proud of the state this place is in. Rock music wafts through the halls for good measure. Red, Kitty, Eric, and Kelso enter through the front door. Eric and Kelso wander off immediately while Red and Kitty assess the situation from the doorway. RED: What the hell kind of college is this? Barefoot hippies playing frisbee, barefoot hippies singing songs to trees... Eric and Kelso find a section of wall to lean on, a section that happens to have a poster for CPR instructions. KELSO: Man, this place is awesome. (points to poster) Look, they even have dirty cartoons on the wall. ERIC: Kelso, those are CPR instructions. DONNA: Wow, I’ve done CPR a lot. A particularly filthy-looking college student approaches Red and Kitty, offers his hand – this is TED. TED: Hi. I’m Ted, resident advisor. He shakes Red and Kitty’s hands in turn. KITTY: Hi. ERIC: Why don’t you folks have a look around, and I’ll show the boys where they’re gonna be staying. He crosses to Eric and Kelso. Red and Kitty start looking around in the opposite direction and find students passed out on couches. RED: I don’t know about this place. KITTY: I’ll say. It’s the middle of November. I don’t see any Thanksgiving decorations. Over by the wall, Ted leans in and drops his voice. TED: Visitors’ weekend is great. We always have a big dorm party. Tons of booze, tons of chicks. Eric and Kelso share a grin and a high-five. ERIC: Man, this place is great! It’s too bad Donna couldn’t make it... A BOMBSHELL BLONDE, wearing nothing but a towel wrapped around her middle, walks past them. ERIC (cont’d): Oh, my God, would you look at that? KELSO: We just saw college butt! On a girl! Of course, this is the time when Red walks over. RED: (to Ted) Hold it. Girls live here too? TED: Yes, sir. We’re co-ed. ERIC/KELSO: Oh, yeah!/All right! RED: That’s it! You’re staying with us at the motel. He starts toward the door. Eric runs after him. ERIC: Wait! Dad, wait. Think of what a valuable experience this could be for me. I mean, this is my first step into the real world. (claps Red’s shoulder) I’m your little bird, Dad. Give me wings to fly. Red looks at Eric’s hand on his shoulder; Eric pulls it away. RED: Butch it up and get in the car. Eric sighs and obeys. Kelso has wandered over to the girls’ restroom and cracked open the door. KELSO: Excuse me, this is your CPR coach. I’m gonna need to check your lung capacities. (over his shoulder) That means their boobs. He stops when he sees Red, not Eric, over his shoulder. Stone-faced Red takes Kelso by the arm and pulls him away. FADE TO BLACK COMMERCIAL BUMPER INT. HOTEL ROOM – NIGHT The Formans’ hotel for the weekend. Red sits on the edge of the bed with a map of UW while Eric and Kelso lie on cheap cots. Kelso is back at his football game. RED: There’s got to be at least one all-male dormitory on this campus. Ah! Here it is, right between the chapel and the school of interior design. Kitty, ready for bed, enters from the bathroom, just slightly tense and unsteady. KITTY: Boys, um, I realize that, uh, I may have been a little irrational today. KELSO: A little? KITTY: SHUT UP! (takes deep breath) So, um, maybe now is a good time for me to explain a few things to you about menopause. And, um, lucky for you, I’m a nurse, so I can use the proper terms, like epithelial lining and uterine wall. Eric groans, flips around, and buries his head into his pillow. Kelso just keeps playing his game. Kitty takes two small bars of soap from her robe pockets. KITTY (cont’d): Okay, so, um, now, say these soaps are my ovaries. Okay, um, about a month ago, they stopped producing... She loses her train of thought, thanks to the noise from Kelso’s game. KITTY (cont’d): They stopped... The game gets louder, and she loses it again. KITTY (cont’d): Stopped producing... And once more. KITTY (cont’d): Oh, that’s it! She reaches over, snatches the game from Kelso, and tosses it out the window. KITTY (cont’d): (to Kelso) What is wrong with you? Were you dropped on your head? Kelso gapes up at her; he’s never seen Mrs. Forman like this. KELSO: Yes, I was. And up until now, everyone had the good grace not to mention it! His bottom lip quivering, he throws himself down into his pillow. Red sighs and stands. RED: Okay, boys. Time to leave. ERIC: YES! He and Kelso scramble off the cots and out the door. BUMPER EXT. ROAD – NIGHT Somewhere in Point Place, the El Camino cruises the streets. Hyde is at the wheel, Fez in the passengers’ seat, a bag loaded with egg cartons in his lap. “Pump it Up” by Elvis Costello plays on the radio. Hyde wears a deep frown, Fez an impatient mug. FEZ: We’ve circled past the school three times already. We missed the end of the JV cheerleader practice. Let’s park this mamma and do this thing! HYDE: Whatever. FEZ: Oh. You’re still upset about Jackie. HYDE: What the hell’s her deal, man? Before we were together, I brought her along on a few nights like this and she was up for it. So, now that we’re an “official couple” or whatever, she doesn’t wanna have fun? FEZ: (tsks) Oh, Hyde. Poor, poor Hyde. Cool as you are, you know nothing of women. Hyde gives Fez a dirty look, but he persists. FEZ (cont’d): You made plans for the weekend without even consulting her. You cannot do this with a girlfriend. That’s a big step for you two. You do not want to do something special with your lady? HYDE: I don’t know, man. I mean, I’ve been showing her the ropes on all this stuff for a while now, and I just figured - FEZ: Hyde, have you been trying to make Jackie a-cool? (shakes his head) She is her own woman, orphan boy. You think whatever you want to do, if you snap, she comes? That is trouble. Just you wait, Henry Higgins. HYDE: “Henry Higgins?” FEZ: You know, from My Fair Lady. Hyde stares blankly, not a clue what Fez means. FEZ (cont’d): It was the school musical this year. I was Dancer Number Three. More blank stares. FEZ (cont’d): You told me you went to see it, you son of a bitch! He turns away in a huff. Hyde sighs and turns the car around. BUMPER INT. DORM HALL – NIGHT Ted’s promised party. As “Wheel in the Sky” by Journey blares over the radio, college students and visiting high schoolers dance, sample the keg, and make out. Kelso has a STATUESQUE BLONDE pinned up against the wall, near the CPR poster. KELSO: (points to poster) I see UW has a pretty good CPR program. That’s gonna be my major. She rolls her eyes at him and walks away. Eric walks up the hall with a STRAWBERRY BLONDE, mid-conversation. ERIC: So, I told my girlfriend, “we can go to separate schools.” I mean, people do that all the time, right? STRAWBERRY BLONDE: Yeah. I mean, my boyfriend goes to school in New York, and we’ve been together for three years, and we’re in love now more than ever. ERIC: Of course you are. And I bet, when you two get together, it’s like a thunderstorm, right? Ted walks up behind them and snakes an arm around the strawberry blonde’s waist. TED: Hey, pretty lady. She leans into him, and they start making out. ERIC: (to blonde) Excuse me, hello? Didn’t you just say you had a boyfriend? SRAWBERRY BLONDE: Yeah. But he’s not here. She takes Ted by the hand and leads him away. Eric, dazed, crosses over to Kelso, who is once again looking into the girls’ bathroom. ERIC: Did you just see that? I told Donna we could go to different schools, and I was extremely wrong, and... man, if she doesn’t hate Marquette, we’re screwed. KELSO: Who cares, Eric? There’s a bunch of these college chicks sharing a shower! He turns back to the bathroom. Eric throws his hands up and walks away. BUMPER INTERCUT - INT. MARQUETTE/INT. HOTEL ROOM – NIGHT A row of payphones on the wall. Donna is on one of them. DONNA: Eric? Is everything okay? Eric, on the other end of the call, sitting by the nightstand while Red sits near the head of the bed and Kitty on the end. Kitty tries to hold in tears as she watches television. ERIC: (into phone) Yeah, everything’s fine. I just want to see how you like Marquette. And, can I just say, if that snooty switchboard operator’s attitude is any indication of the Marquette experience, then I can only assume we’re crossing Marquette off the list right now. DONNA: No, actually, it’s great. Okay, they have this English professor. He wears a beret and wears a corduroy jacket, but he listens to Zeppelin! ERIC: Uh, yeah, well, UW has a vending machine, so... (beat) Donna, I love you. DONNA: I love you too. Bye. She hangs up, walks off. Eric sets the phone back on the receiver just as Kitty breaks out into full-on tears. RED: (to Eric) You gonna cry now too? KITTY: You know who had a real family? The Waltons. We’re just three strangers sitting in a room! She tosses her tissue aside and heads into the bathroom. ERIC: Donna loves it there. I don’t know what to do. RED: (to Eric) There’s nothing any of us can do. We’re all screwed. You think I like being stuck here, nursing my lunatic wife back from the brink? Hell, no. But we can’t control what happens to us. Even if, by some stroke of luck, you actually hang on to Donna, eventually she’s gonna turn into that. (points to the bathroom door) And then, a few years later, you’ll die. ERIC: (beat) Okay, thanks for the bedtime story. CUT TO: INT. FORMAN BASEMENT – NIGHT The basement is empty, the lights all out. The lock clicks, the basement door opens, and Hyde and Fez step in, hitting the lights as they enter. Fez still has his bag of eggs. They make it halfway to the couch when Jackie comes out from Hyde’s room. JACKIE: Hello, Steven. Hyde and Fez both jump. Fez throws his bag up, and it lands behind him with the sound of many cracking shells. FEZ: Ai. Hyde looks over at Jackie. HYDE: Jackie? Did Forman finally give you a key? JACKIE: No. HYDE: Then how’d you get in here? She holds up a bobby pin and wiggles it around before placing it back in her hair. Hyde shrugs and takes a step toward her. HYDE (cont’d): Look, Jackie, I know you wanted to spend Saturday night together, and I kind of blew you off, so... we’re not doing the egg thing, so if you wanna go - JACKIE: No, no, Steven. Look, you are an independent man set in his ways, and you’ve never had a girlfriend before. You’ve never been shown how to obey one. Hyde shakes his head, “are you kidding me?” JACKIE (cont’d): But I’ve thought about it, and I think I’ve found a way we can spend Saturday night together that combines what you like and what I like. She goes to the record player and drops the needle. “Ballroom Blitz” by Sweet comes on. Jackie smiles up at Hyde and begins dancing in place. He shrugs and nods. HYDE: Not bad. JACKIE: I know, right? And... She reaches into her pocket and pulls out a small paper bag. She tosses it to Hyde, who knows exactly what it is. HYDE: This is my stash. JACKIE: Yeah, I thought you’d have a better hiding place for it than an old shirt pocket. She dances her way over to Hyde, stopping right in front of him. He looks down at her, grinning ear to ear. HYDE: I think a special night deserves a special treat. CUT TO: MONTAGE. SET TO “BALLROOM BLITZ.” A) FORMAN KICHEN - Hyde, in Kitty’s silly-looking oven mitts, mixes up a big bowl of brownie mix. Jackie, at his side, sticks her finger into the batter and gets a taste. BALLROOM BLITZ (v.o.): It was like lightning... B) FORMAN KITCHEN – Hyde lifts the finished tray of brownies out of the oven as Jackie watches (as best she can) over his shoulder. BALLROOM BLITZ (v.o.): Everybody was fighting... C) FORMAN KITCHEN – Overhead on the kitchen table as Hyde slices the brownies up. BALLROOM BLITZ (v.o.): And the music was soothing... D) FORMAN KITCHEN – Hyde and Jackie each have a brownie. They link arms, smile at each other, and each take a big bite. BALLROOM BLITZ (v.o.): And they all started grooving... E) Extreme close-up on Jackie’s eyes, then Hyde’s behind his shades, as the “special ingredient” kicks in. F) FORMAN KITCHEN – Hyde and Jackie sit together, their heads leaned against one another, their mouths set in spacey smiles, as the walls spin around them with the effects of the brownies. BALLROOM BLITZ (v.o.): Yeah, yeah, yeah-yeah-yeah! G) FORMAN KITCHEN – HIGH SPEED. HAND-HELD. WIDE ANGLE. Jackie and Hyde stand before an open freezer, taking shots of whipped cream straight from the can into their mouths. BALLROOM BLITZ (v.o.): And the man in the back... H) FORMAN LIVING ROOM – HIGH SPEED. The couch, the coffee table, and Red’s chair are all shoved back out of the way, leaving room for Hyde and Jackie to do a wild dance all over the floor. BALLROOM BLITZ (v.o.): ... Said “everyone attack” And it turned into a ballroom blitz! I) FORMAN BEDROOM – HIGH SPEED. Jackie sits at Kitty’s nightstand, admiring her reflection. She has on Hyde’s sunglasses. He enters the room, surprising her. He lunges when he sees her with his shades, but she jumps up, dodges, and runs out of the room, giggling, as Hyde gives chase. BALLROOM BLITZ (v.o.): And the girl in the corner Said “boy, I wanna warn ya...” J) FORMAN BASEMENT – HIGH SPEED. Hyde comes charging down the stairs with Jackie slung over his shoulder. She still wears his shades. They race right past Fez, who has been standing around in the basement for this entire montage. They almost make it to Hyde’s room when he sets Jackie down. The two of them run to Fez, each grab an arm, and shoo him out the basement door. Hyde locks it behind him. He and Jackie nod and shake hands before he picks her back up and carries her to his room. BALLROOM BLITZ (v.o.): “It’ll turn into a ballroom blitz!” Ballroom blitz! Ballroom blitz! Ballroom blitz! Ballroom blitz! BUMPER EXT. FORMAN KITCHEN - DAY The next day, late afternoon. The Vista Cruiser rests in the parking lot. Red and Eric unload the car as Kitty steps out and stretches. She’s all smiles, in a wonderful mood; she’s the only one. KITTY: What a wonderful weekend! We should go away more often! Laughing, she heads into the house. Red, looking one step from death, turns to Eric. RED: They’ve gotta make a pill for this. He follows Kitty inside. CUT TO: INT. FORMAN KITCHEN – DAY The place is a mess. The mixing bowl is out with the spoon inside, the decimated tray of brownies is still on the table, the whipped cream can is on the floor, and bags, boxes, cans, and pans of half-eaten snacks are everywhere. Red and Kitty just start to take it all in when a yawning Hyde comes up from the basement in an open bathrobe and sweatpants. RED: Steven! What the hell is all this? Hyde freezes mid-step. HYDE: (beat) The folly of prohibition is what it is! You take away beer, you see what happens. Red rolls his eyes as Kitty takes another wide-eyed look around the room. CUT TO: EXT. FORMAN DRIVEWAY – DAY Eric finishes unloading the Vista Cruiser. Donna comes up the driveway. DONNA: Hi. ERIC: Okay. I know you love Marquette, and you know what? I’ve made my peace with that. So if that means that we’re going to go to separate schools, and drift apart, and make out with guys named Ted, then that’s just the way it’s gonna have to be, because you’re gonna get menopause, and I’m gonna die, and we can’t control anything that happens to us! DONNA: (beat) I’m not going to Marquette. ERIC: Well, then, never mind. They sit down on the open back of the car. DONNA: I mean... Eric, I loved it, and when I was driving home, I was so excited to tell you about it. And then the drive took forever. And I realized that’s how far away I’d be from you all the time. And I don’t want that. So I’ll just tell my dad I want to go to UW with you. ERIC: Donna, you have no idea how happy you just made me. DONNA: Eric, this is gonna be great! We’re gonna be together all the time! ERIC: Ooh. Um, you’re not gonna get all clingy, right? DONNA: (laughing) Shut up! ERIC: No, come on, I’m gonna be a big college man. DONNA: Uh-huh. ERIC: I’m gonna need my space. They share another laugh and scoot closer together on the car. FADE TO BLACK CREDITS INT. FORMAN KITCHEN – DAY Another day. Kitty dries the dishes by the sink while Red watches her from the island. Kelso enters through the patio door, another envelope pinned to his jacket. RED: (to Kelso) What do you want? KELSO: Once again, the explanation is pinned to my lapel. Red takes a note from the envelope. RED: (reading) “Dear Mr. and Mrs. Forman, please give Michael thirty dollars for the game you threw out the window and broke. Signed, my parents.” Kitty lets out a big laugh and retreats to the living room. RED: (beat) Well, you made her laugh. That’s worth thirty bucks. He pulls out some bills and drops them into Kelso’s envelope. END.

***

The only additional change we should assume for Season 5 in this timeline is that the changeover to 1978 happens in episode 5-10 [according to production order], "The Crunge."

Well, we made it into Season 5, and we're past the point where there are any major continuity issues to address. The goal of keeping the Zen story going after "Jackie Bags Hyde" and syncing back into the show's established timeline is met, and so we're done here.

...Or are we?

#z's fics #that 70s show #zenmasters #jackie x hyde #zen3to5 #fan fiction #fan script

5 notes · View notes

fallenqueen2 · 5 years ago

Text

Thornton + Murdoc [Macgyver]

When Mac quits the Phoenix Foundation, it leaves him open for his past to come out of the woodwork.

@badthingshappenbingo Villainous Rescue

Part 16 of Love + Angst

Ao3 Link

~~/~~

The world was spinning and grey around the edges. Mac couldn’t help the moan that spilled from his lips as he shifted from where he found himself pinned under the column of the steering wheel. For the life of him, Mac couldn’t remember what was happening. Sunlight almost blinded Mac when the dented car door beside him was pried open. Mac raised a hand to block the sun and the looming shadow.

“Don’t hurt him any more than he already is.” Strong hands grabbed Mac under his armpits as a female voice called out. Mac let out a weak cry when he was pried from the wreck of the car he was in. He looked up at the feminine figure with long black hair leaning over him and a sharp pinch of a needle emitted from his neck. Mac let out a soft noise as his world faded to black as a sedative coursed through his system.

Patricia Thornton smiled to herself as she brushed Mac’s blond bangs off his bloodied head.

“I’ve got you, Angus, just relax.” Thornton crooned almost lovingly to the unconscious blond before he was loaded into the back of her nondescript car.

“I’ll keep you posted until then make this disappear,” Thornton ordered her men as she slipped on a hat and sunglasses and sat in the driver's seat. She revved the engine and pulled out of the side street and onto the main road.

Murdoc swore under his breath as he followed the car into LA traffic through his riflescope. He had no idea Thornton was a free woman and least of all still holding a grudge of sorts against the boy genius.

“Well, well MacGyver looks like you’ve got yourself into some trouble. Not even a few hours of quitting and you get yourself kidnapped.” Murdoc muttered to himself as he disassembled his rifle while he watched the swarm of men in black clear up the scene.

Murdoc tapped his fingers against his right thigh as he considered his options. He could easily find where Thornton took his favourite plaything, or he could give old Jacky boy a call and watch them scramble. However, having something to hold over the boy scout’s head was too good to pass up and Murdoc couldn’t wait to see the disappointment grow in those pretty eyes when Angus released who had come to save him and who hadn’t.

Making up his mind Murdoc head down the stairwell of the building, walking past the dead guard while whistling his usual tune that echoed in the stairwell.

~~/~~

Mac moaned softly, his skull pounding and body stiff. Mac blinked slowly, eyes squinting up into the bright light that seemed to be shining directly on him.

“Ah you’re awake, I had worried that those idiots had damaged that beautiful mind of yours.” A familiar female voice pierced Mac’s ears making Mac blink rapidly, needing to clear his vision. When it did clear, Mac jerked back on reflex and twisted at the sturdy ropes that were looped around his wrists that kept him bound to a solid, metal chair.

“Thornton?” Mac asked, throat hurting as he spoke and eyes widening in disbelief when his boss turned villain stepped forward, blocking the light source.

“It’s been a while hasn’t it Mac? I will openly admit I have missed you.” Thornton spoke, a predatory smile appearing on her lips as she took in the look Mac was sporting.

“How did you get out of prison?” Mac asked in confusion as his heart pounded in his ears when a man in a doctor’s outfit stepped forward and began to swab at his elbow. Mac jerked away from the touch and worked harder at the ropes around his limbs keeping him trapped.

“I have many friends in high places, did your father not tell you?” Thornton crossed her arms over her chest as she watched Mac tried to get away from the IV that was being inserted in his arm. She felt a twinge of regret at the look of pain that crossed the blond’s face but she pushed it back.

“Relax Mac, the good doctor here is just giving you something that will help you relax.” Thornton soothed as she waited until Max’s eyes drooped and hazed over just enough. She nodded sharply at the doctor who scurried from the small room, leaving Thornton and Mac alone.

“Now Mac, I think you can help me with a problem I’ve been having. I need that beautiful mind of yours Mac, will you help me one last time?” Thornton crooned as she stepped closer and ran her fingers through Mac’s blond hair, smiling wide when his head lolled to the side and he slowly blinked up at her.

“I don’t, I think, my head hurts Patty.” Mac closed his eyes, a soft whine falling from his lips.

“I know Mac, I can make it go away. Just as soon as you help me with a problem I’ve been having, one that I know you can solve.” Thornton crooned again, pushing a bit more even if her heart jumped a bit at the familiar nickname and whine that took her back to the days when everything was going to plan until Nikki messed everything up and forced Thornton to adjust her plans.

“I can help,” Mac’s words were beginning to slur and Thornton frowned, the doctor must have given the blond too much. He was of no help the way he was at the moment; once they adjusted the dosage Thornton had no doubts that Mac would be very helpful.

“Don’t go anywhere Mac, I’ll be right back.” Thornton kept her voice soft and easy in a way she knew would relax Mac. Mac nodded absently and hummed as his head lolled to the right again as Thornton turned on her heel and opened the door to call the doctor back in.

“Hi Patty, you took something of mine and I’d like it back,” Murdoc said cheerfully, his gun pointed at her forehead.

“Murdoc,” Thornton said evenly, when she opened her mouth to speak again Murdoc put a bullet between her eyes without a second of hesitation.

“That was easy,” Murdoc chuckled to himself as he tucked his gun away as he sidestepped Thornton’s body and into the room.

“Oh, they really drugged you up huh Angus,” Murdoc tsk’ ed as he took in the way the blond hadn’t even flinched at the gunshot and the spray of blood that came with a bullet in the head. Instead, his head was lolled to the right and eyes hazy as they slowly moved around the room.

“Come on boy genius,” Murdoc sliced open the ropes and grunted when Mac all but collapsed onto his chest. Murdoc sighed, wondering if he should have called Jack but he knew that the blond would be no fun to toy with in the future if Thornton had more time with him.

Murdoc pulled the blond into his arms and walked out of the house Thornton had been using as a headquarters and squinted at the bright sun. Mac moaned helplessly and turned his face into Murdoc’s leather jacket.

“You would tempt a saint Angus,” Murdoc muttered, suddenly wondering if leaving the doped up blond to be found by someone and taken to a hospital was the best plan.

“Hey! Sorry, but do you need help?” A woman in a jogging suit approached the duo, her phone held tightly in her hand and concern on her pretty face.

“This one does,” Murdoc set Mac down onto the grass of the house he pulled Mac from. He turned on his heel and began to walk away. He ignored the shout from the woman but knew that Mac in his drugged state would take her attention, the most she would be able to remember of him, later on, would be his leather jacket, if that.

Murdoc put his hands in his pockets and began to whistle to himself as he walked. Oh yes, he would enjoy holding this over Mac and Jack’s head during their next meeting, which he would ensure there would be one.

#Macgyver #bad things happen bingo #villainous rescue #AU #post season 2 AU #kidnapping #car crash #Angus Macgyver & Murdoc #Angus Macgyver & Thornton #injured Mac #revenge #blood #killing #canon violence #drugged Mac #non-con drugging #the usual murdoc #love + Angst #fallenqueen2

15 notes · View notes

seddm · 6 years ago

Note

What is the best emotionally intimate Starco conversation in the show to you? The list includes The Blood Moon Ball Balcony talk, The Starcrushed talk, The talk at the end of Lint Catcher + the squire vows, The Booth Buddies talk, The Dance in CotBM talk, and lastly the Knight Shift Sunset talk. How would you order these roughly? They're all good but how would you rank them?

Boy, this is hard. Some scenes were more important as far as the narrative goes, but less meaningful to the characters themselves. Gonna have to make an average between the two to make a ranking:

Booth Buddies - this is the episode that has most of both. It was very hard for both Star and Marco to admit all the things they said in the booth, and to react like that to them, but it was also the payoff to 13 episodes of tension and build up, in what’s still the most tightly knit and cohesive arc Star and Marco’s relationship went through.

Curse of the Blood Moon - as frustrating as the fact that they forgot about this moment is, it’s an incredibly important scene, one that shows us how beautiful Starco could have been to Star and Marco if they stopped trying to run away from it for a moment. Star’s words and expressions truly convey the idea that she finally began to understand what she truly wanted, and she experienced how good that was, and knowing that they were going to lose it hurt a lot.

The Knight Shift - if only the moment hadn’t been exclusively platonic, if the idiots had even just started having the first part of an “...wait, but just how special is this person to me?” epiphany in their minds, it’d rank first by a huge margin. As things are it’s still an incredibly important moment for the narrative, being the coronation of Marco’s arc AND forever searing into the show the concept that commitment is important and that Star and Marco have oceans of it. But to the characters themselves it was a bit less of a pivotal moment: a super meaningful one, obviously, but it was just the natural conclusion of 1.5 seasons of arc for Marco, and 3.5 seasons of “our relationship is based on mutual trust” for Star and Marco, so it was more of an important payoff than a turning point.

Blood Moon Ball - not really that important a moment narratively, since little changes in Star and Marco’s relationship from that moment, but incredibly meaningful in universe, to the characters. With no prior build up, with no ongoing arc needing a payoff, Marco swallows his pride, understands his mistake, and strengthens his bond with Star with renewed understanding and emotional intimacy.

Starcrushed - this ranks second to last just because both moments are incomplete: both Marco and Star make important statements about how important they are to each other, and for the sake of their friendship they are ready to start such a potentially awkward talk (remember, they both arrived at the conclusion that they needed to do that at the same time)

But the talk on the stairs lacks some sincerity on Star’s side - she needed on little extra push to finally cave in and realize that she just couldn’t lie to Marco, even if it would have been that much easier for both of them, and during the confession Marco doesn’t really react, doesn’t say anything, still too immature and attached to his tunnel-visionified “perfect life on Earth with Jackie” ideas. So the episode is one of the most important moments for Star, literally the official passage between her immature self, and the Star who defeated Toffee and tries to change Mewni, but if I had to grade it with the same criteria as the other moments... second to last place.

Lint Catcher - an incredibly important moment for the narrative, since Star literally tells us what kind of special role Marco fills in her life, a role no one else can fill - because she wouldn’t want anyone else, but the characters themselves lack any kind of insight, it’s going to take until Booth Buddies / Divide just for Star and Marco to fully realize what this role as a “squire” actually meant to both of them.

#seddm answers #svtfoe #star vs the forces of evil #jcabrera35

50 notes · View notes

thdorkmagnet · 5 years ago

Text

Light of the Sun and Stars Chapter 21: Angela and Rafael Diaz

Summary: His whole life Marco Diaz has been raised by monsters, living under the cruel rule of their leader, Toffee. But one day Marco escapes into Mewni where he meets a magical princess and Mewman like himself, who begins teaching him all about her world. Together they will learn about life, love, and the lights within each of them, as they change their world forever.

Chapter Synopsis: Marco visits Buff Frog and learns the tragic history and legacy of his now passed parents.

Check out my other stuff on Fanfiction!

Index

Disclaimer: Star vs and all its characters are owned by Daron Nefcy and Disney. All rights go to them.

Previous Chapter>>

Next Chapter>>

The small clearing was filled with noisy chatter and happy laughter as the portal opened up to the spot, Marco, Star, Jackie, Janna, Beard Deer, Bearicorn, and Lobster Claws hearing it even before they stepped out of the swirling portal. Once they had, though, the four teens all took a long look around, while the deer Monster closed the rip in dimensions back up again. The other Monsters were all hard at work, hauling heavy boards to and fro, so distracted in their tasks they hadn't noticed them yet. Marco's gaze quickly switched to the source of their hard work and couldn't help but smile.

The newly made cottage was coming along nicely, the foundation already filled in and finished, as well as quite a bit of the construction of the walls, the place already looking homey and welcoming, even in its half-finished state. He honestly wasn't sure how they had gotten so much done in such a short time, considering how busy they were with other, more important things, but as he saw many new, unfamiliar faces and the largely increased number of Monsters present there, he realized Buff Frog had asked for extra help in the Monster community. After all it was a big job, rebuilding the burned country home his parents had once lived in, knowing they had had to of completely clear out the reduced rubble that had remained before they could even begin construction, but he was thankful and glad they had put the work in, feeling like, in this way, there was still something left of his parents.

The boy jumped as a hand landed on his shoulder and he turned to see Beard Deer smiling down at him, asking, “So Marco, what do you think?” Marco looked back at the half-finished home, he didn't remember what the original had looked like, having been a baby at the time, but he had no doubts that this was defiantly a close comparison, though it seemed they had made it quite a bit larger than the last one, which made sense considering how many Monsters would be going in and out of the place.

Marco smiled again, giving an approving nod, before telling the Monster, “It looks great! Buff Frog's going to love it!” He had been overjoyed the second he had been told that they would be rebuilding the home to make a place for their new Monster leader to live, no Monster wanting to return to the dark and dreary castle, all of them shuddering at the very thought of it, the memories within still too fresh and painful. So it was decided that instead they would make a new base for their leader, Buff Frog choosing the once cozy country cottage instantly. It was the perfect spot, lying (almost intentionally) on the very outskirts of the Monster's territory but still within close distance of the Butterfly's land. Its location made it quite useful for helping to continue the ever-strengthening peace within the two kingdom's new alliance. And, of course, it would allow Buff Frog to be near his son and still be able to continue running the new Monster society he was creating.

Beard Deer ruffled a claw through Marco's hair, interrupting his thoughts once again, as the Monster gave him a soft look, saying, “Glad you like it.”

“Buff Frog is even working on making your own room, so you can come over anytime you like,” Bearicorn said.

“Pretty cool, huh?” Lobster Claws added with a goofily large grin on his hard face.

Marco nodded his head vigorously. “Yeah, it is! I can't wait to see it when it's done!” Marco exclaimed. He quickly turned to the blond beside him. “Doesn't it look great, Star?!”

“Yeah, it's looking pretty good,” Star replied enthusiastically. “I'm impressed you guys have gotten so much done, so fast!”

“Well we called in a ton of extra Monsters to help with the building and that's really made things a lot easier on all of us,” Beard Deer explained, but Marco was no longer listening, now searching for the Monster that had called them there in the first place, finally seeing him standing over with a group of Monsters. His face was scrunched up with seriousness, looking down at the large blueprint in his claws, before saying something to the others around him and pointing in a direction, seemingly giving them orders, though Marco was too far away to hear what it was.

Marco didn't even hesitate as he began running toward his father, yelling, “Buff Frog!” Buff Frog looked up from his work with a wide, loving smile as he saw his adopted child racing over and handed the blueprint over to a Monster beside him. All the other Monsters turned hearing the shout, some even stopping in the middle of their tasks, watching as the young boy as he ran to his dad's open arms, happily trapping himself in Buff Frog's warmth and strength. “Marco!” Buff Frog cried as he lifted his son off the ground, holding him close, chuckling softly. “It good to see you, son!”

“It's good to see you, too, dad!” Marco replied, equally enthusiastically, as he squeezed his father as hard as he could, the week the two had spent apart causing Marco to hunger for his father's love and attention and he wanted to soak up as much as he could right then.

The other Monsters watched the exchange, before some went back to what they were doing prior, none of them really caring all that much about the display of emotion, only there to finish their job and go home. Buff Frog's main group of Monsters, however, quickly dropped what they were doing as they went over to greet their young charge, happy to see him as always.

Finally, Buff Frog set the boy back down to his feet, as he turned to look at the three Monsters he had asked to bring his son there, saying in a slightly accusing tone, “Though I do admit, I expected you here a bit sooner.”

“Yeah sorry boss,” Beard Deer said rather sheepishly. “We got...” He paused, rubbing at his still aching cheek with a grimace, thinking of the young redhead's beating. “Uhh, held up.”

“Yeah, we got beat up this teenager, who was apparently a knight or something,” Lobster Claws instantly added and Beard Deer shot him a glare.

“And also a girl,” Janna felt the need to point out, earning her a dirty look from the deer Monster.

“Thanks for that,” he growled at the crustacean, upset at his friend for practically giving his young rival a chance to humiliate him. Lobster Claws shrugged, raising his claws in the air and giving his friend a sheepish grin, showing his innocence for the slip up in hopes Beard Deer would forgive him.

“Well whatever reason, I just glad you here,” Buff Frog said, as he put a muscular arm on his young son's shoulder, the boy grinning up at him in response.

But the smile dropped as he tried to nonchalantly ask his frog father the question that was burning at his insides. “Soooo, dad... are you gonna tell me about my parents now?” He couldn't keep the excitement or impatience out of his voice, as he eagerly awaited the response, his hands folded in an almost begging manner in front of him.

Buff Frog smiled as his son's eagerness, before saying reassuringly, “Very soon, Marco. We about to be done for day. Just give me few minutes to wrap things up.”

“Oh, okay,” Marco said hesitantly, giving his dad the smallest of nods. Even though his head was swimming with questions and his heart was racing so quickly that he felt like it might explode, he knew his dad had duties to attend to first, so he tried to be understanding and patient in the matter.

Buff Frog seemed to see his son's true feelings because he gave his shoulder a quick squeeze, saying in a reassuring voice, “I won't be long, I promise.”

With that, the frog reluctantly walked away, going back to directing the Monsters under his command to wrapping up the construction for the day, overseeing everything as he shouted orders and gave them the last few commands for the afternoon.

Once he was gone though, Marco was overwhelmed by a massive group hug from the other Monsters, all hungry to give out affection for the boy and ignoring the work still needing to be done in favor of showing this. Star, Jackie, and Janna, just watched the scene unfold with slight chuckles, smiling at the sight of Marco gushing over the attention from his family, laughing in surprise and joy as his face beamed with pride.

Finally, the Monsters peeled themselves off of him, all except for one, a red two headed Monster. “Marco, I missed you!” one of the heads said in a very high pitched voice, as he clung onto the boy's back.

“Well I missed you more,” the other head said in a lower, more gruff tone and Marco felt the hug tighten.

“Uhh, I've been missing him this whole time,” the first head shot back, his tone becoming harsh.

“Well, I was missing him even before he was gone!” the second snapped, with a look of anger on his face. Meanwhile, with every exchange Marco felt the Monster's grip tighten more and more, to the point the hooded boy felt like his back was being crushed and his limbs were breaking apart.

“Can't. breathe!” he managed to gasp out, his face contorted into a frown and the two finally released their hold as Marco gasped for breath.

“Oh sorry, Marco,” first head apologized with a look of remorse.

“Yeah you should be sorry, you nearly killed him,” the second said, giving him an angry scowl.

“Me? You were hugging him, too!”

Before Marco could quell the argument, the boy felt himself being lifted off the ground and he gave a surprised squeak, only to find himself being hugged firmly, but gently by Spikeballs, who hadn't been able to join in on the group hug. “Hey Spikeballs!” Marco greeted cheerfully, as he allowed the large Monster to hold him suspended in mid-air.

“Hey Marco,” the large Monster replied. “You've gotten bigger,” he added.

Marco blushed at the compliment, before responding shyly, “Aw, you're just saying that.”

After a moment, Spikeballs set the boy back down on the ground and Boo Fly instantly landed on his shoulder, Marco turning his head to look at the little Monster.

The fly's thousands of eyes lay on him, as he asking in a questioning buzz, “Zzo, Marco, how wazz the dance with Zztar?”

“It was good,” Marco replied lightly.

Big Chicken clucked something to him and Marco shook his head. “Nope, no problems, everything went really well, actually,” Marco lied, still not wanting to tell any of the Monsters about what had happened. “Didn't it, Star?” he said, turning to his girlfriend for conformation.

“Yep,” Star said with a nod, a smile gracing her lips. “It was... magical,” she added with a sigh, as she looked over at her bestie. She easily caught his eye and instantly got a dazed, love-struck look on her face, Marco doing the same. For a moment, she just stared into his soft, chocolate brown eyes, which were alive and shining with joy, and Star knew they were thinking the same thing, as they fantasized the moment the two had been captured in the red moon's glow. Star felt an extra thump in her chest, almost like she had been transported back in time to that moment, but after a second it was gone.

“Well, go on, tell us everything!” came Lobster Claws excited command, pulling the two out of their moment and back to reality, as they looked back at the Monsters, who were all nodding, waiting fervently to be told the whole story.

“And don't leave anything out,” the little fly currently weighing down Marco's shoulder added.

Marco tried not to let his look of nervousness show, as he looked to Star for help, knowing that there were several things about that night they couldn't talk about. And none of his friends looked okay with the idea of the hooded boy telling the Monsters what had happened, as they all silently slapped themselves for not coming up with a good cover story before now, knowing how bad the brunette could be at lying. “Uhhh, well-” Marco started but luckily was saved from having to stumble his way around another lie as Buff Frog called to the other Monsters. “Hey, we still need more help over here! You can talk to Marco and friends later!”

The Monsters all sighed and groaned in disappointment, but didn't argue with their leader as they all left to help with the country home's construction, several shuffling their feet as they went. Marco and the three girls all let out relieved sighs as they were left alone once again, Janna even commenting, “Well that was a close one.” To which the others all nodded and mumbled their agreements.

…

A few minutes later, things had settled down, the last of the work was finished for the day and all the stranger Monsters had left, the clearing now silent and peaceful once again. leaving just Buff Frog, his main group of Monsters, and the four teens. Marco once again approached his father, who was rolling up the blueprint to tuck away somewhere safe, trying to ask his frog father in a patient tone, “So, are you ready now?”

“Da, now I ready,” Buff Frog responded, smiling at his son's excitement, as he set the folded paper down.

“Yes!” the boy cheered, pumping an excited fist into the air.

Buff Frog sat down, thankful he was under the shade of a tree. “Come,” Buff Frog said, motioning the boy over to him and Marco instantly obeyed, plopping himself down next to the Monster. He looked up at his dad, expectantly, as he waited for his father to begin. The others just stood there awkwardly, not sure if they should intrude on the moment, but were also overwhelmed by curiosity.

Finally, Star asked hesitantly, “Uhh, so should we go and let you guys talk or...” She pointed behind her, looking between father and son.

“We don't want you to feel like we are intruding on you or anything,” Bearicorn sheepishly added and Buff Frog instantly waved the comment off.

“You are not intruding. You are welcome to stay, if Marco fine with it,” the Russian frog said. He looked down at his son, waiting to hear his response.

“No it's fine, guys, you can stay,” Marco replied, giving them a reassuring grin and Buff Frog smiled. He had been sure that's how his child would respond.

“Are you sure?” Jackie asked, a bit skeptically.

“Of course,” Marco said, nodding his head. “You guys are my family, too. You all deserve to be here.”

The others all smiled at the comment, before all taking seats in the shade, gathering around the two. Once everyone was settled they all turned to the frog, waiting silently to hear the story. But Buff Frog's gaze was once again on Marco, as he asked him softly, “So what do you want to know, Marco?”

“Everything!” Marco responded instantly, his voice an excited shout. “Tell me everything you can about them!”

Buff Frog laughed at his son's eagerness, before repeating, “Everything? That might take a while.”

“I don't care, I want to know everything I can about them,” Marco replied.

“Well in that case...” Buff Frog said softly, as he paused for a moment, lost deep in thought, trying to think of where to even begin, every moment agony to Marco as he waited with held breath. Finally, after a moment, the lead Monster opened his mouth and began, Marco hanging on every word, as the story of his family unfolded before him.

“Many years ago, there lived young Mewman woman and human man...”

…

Rafael Diaz was 25 years old the day he first met Angela. It was his first time on Mewni, first time on any dimension other than Earth actually and he didn't know what to expect going there. His work had brought him, he was a builder, helping to make beautiful homes for the people on Earth. But when he had been hired for a job on the closely allied dimension, he had been skeptical, not sure what he would be getting himself into.

But, upon arrival to the rustic and enchanted dimension, he quickly fell in love with Mewni's unique beauty. He could see why the dimension was so frequently talked about back on Earth, it was quite a sight to see. The landscape was draped in beautiful colors that were not even known on Earth with lush and mysterious flora of which Rafael could only guess the nature or purpose of, the small towns and villages looked like something out of a fairytale and the sky above was the most glorious shade of pink he had ever seen.

To say Rafael was in awe of the world was an understatement, it was enough to make him wish he hadn't given up on his career as a painter in favor of a more stable job. He wandered through the village of the Butterfly Kingdom with a look of wonderment, his jaw dropped open as he gawked at every sight the world had to offer.

But it was the sight that came next that changed his world forever, that caused his heart to stop beating and his mind to come to a screeching and shattering halt, leaving him frozen in his tracks as he stared at the beautiful sight before him. Because it was at that very moment he saw 'her' for the first time. She was sitting in a small garden that surrounded a large building in the town, her hands were digging underneath the fragile ground, as she seemed to be struggling to remove a small red flower from its roots. Her face was contorted as she focused on the miniscule task and her face was smeared with dirt and mud, but to the man she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen in all his days.

She had gorgeous auburn hair that flowed down her back, the puffy and curly hair contained only by a pink ponytail. Her skin was fair, causing her strikingly green eyes to be more prominent. She wore an orange-long sleeved shirt and an olive green skirt hanging modestly low. At the moment she was wearing a cream colored apron, which was caked with mud, but it helped to compliment her features nicely, causing the man to flush all the more. She wore, oddly enough, brown sandals, quite a strange choice for what she was doing, but Rafael felt it gave her a quirky charm. She was biting her lip in the cutest way, her lips an unbelievably bright shade of red.

But, most breathtaking of all were the symbols on her cheeks. They were a pair of light pink flowers, which glowed brightly in the sunlight. He didn't recognize what flower they were, but they looked quite cute gracing her cheeks. He had seen his fair share of the unique looking marks that were common of Mewmans, but he had never seen any as charming as the one on this beautiful woman's face.

Finally, she seemed to win her battle against the plant as she pulled it free from the soft ground, setting to gently down in a small pot. She sighed, wiping some sweat off her brow with her arm, but suddenly seemed to realize she wasn't alone, as she turned in Rafael's direction.

Her green eyes widened as she looked to the man who had been staring at her for the last several minutes, her heart skipping a beat and her cheeks flushing some in embarrassment, causing her cheek marks to light up pink, well a brighter shade of pink. But once she overcame her shock, she found herself studying the man, looking him over and finding herself strangely attracted to him.

He had short brown hair and tanned skin. His cheeks lacked any markings so Angela knew he had to be human. He stood tall, with broad shoulders that looked so strong and manly that it made Angela feel faint. He had a light yellow shirt with dark yellow and white patterns running down the middle, the top partially opened, exposing the large muscles that no doubt lay beneath, which caused Angela's blush to worsen even more. She found her eyes pausing on that spot a bit too long, before forcing herself to study him further. He wore dark gray pants and yellow shoes. Overall, he gave off an air of masculinity that could not be ignored. Though, his brown eyes showed a passionate and caring heart that lay beneath all his toned muscles.

Finally, after several more minutes of awkward gawking, Rafael cleared his throat, saying in the strongest voice he could, really not wanting it to crack in front of the pretty woman. “Hello there,” he said, raising his hand in greeting and giving her a wide (but hopefully not creepy) smile.

Angela gave him a soft smile back, waving at him with one of her dirt-stained hands, her cheeks continuing to flush, as she greeted shyly, “Hi.”

They both paused, not sure what to say now, but surprisingly Angela recovered first, as she moved a stray hair behind her ear, asking him softly, “Did you come to buy a flower?”

“Oh, uhh,” Rafael said, before looking up at the building again, realizing now that it was a flower shop. “Yes!” he blurted out far too fast, before clearing his throat and saying much slower, “Y-Yes, I would love a flower.”

The woman nodded, giving him a business-like smile, gesturing to the front door. “Well then, why don't you come in and look around,” she said, her tone warm and inviting.

Rafael obeyed, following her inside, the woman quickly setting down the flower pot on one of the shelves within. Rafael did a quick survey of the inside of the shop, the whole place filled with flowers and plants of all shapes and colors, some Rafael had never even seen before. A sweet smell drifted to his nose and he couldn't help but breath it in, the aroma intoxicating. He wondered which flower it was from or if it was a combination of all of them being in the same, small space for long periods of time that was creating the delectable scent.

While Rafeal was busy with that, Angela quickly washed her hands free of the caked on dirt and then wiping them on her apron as she approached her customer again. “So,” she said, gaining his attention back to her, as she shyly tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. It seemed her hair fell into her face a lot. “Do you know what kind of flower you want?” Angela asked, trying not to get distracted by how mind-numbingly handsome the man in front of her was or the fact that his caramel colored eyes were focused on her and only her.

“Uh, no, I'm not really sure,” he said, uncertainly.

“Well that's no problem,” the young woman replied, sweetly and Rafael felt like he was melting from her stunning smile. “There are lots of flowers to choose from. How about I show you some of our best sellers?”

Rafael nodded numbly, suddenly lacking the capability of speaking, as he followed the woman over to a cream colored flower, its petals looking like pearls. “This one called the Moontide Tip, it's one of our rarest flowers, because the conditions to grow them have to be very precise.”

“Oh, it's beautiful!” he said in admiration. “Was this grown on Mewni?”

“Of course. All of our flowers are grown here,” the woman said proudly. “This particular one is found along the coastlines of Mewni's lakes and beaches and only glows in moonlight. At night, it glows a pale pink. It's quite exquisite, isn't it?”

Rafael nodded again, but he froze as he noticed the price tag on the pretty flowers pot. “And expensive. Do you have anything else?”

“Yes, of course,” Angela said, moving over to a different flower, Rafael following her. She stopped by what looked like an ordinary bouquet of roses, all of them just a regular blood red color, nothing magical or different about these.

“Roses?” Rafael observed, studying them closely.

“Oh, you know them,” Angela said in surprise.

“Of course, they are very common on Earth,” Rafael explained, feeling a swell of pride in his chest, the woman looking quite impressed with his knowledge of the flower.

“Oh, so you are from Earth,” Angela said, excitedly. “I guessed as much,” she added, hoping it didn't make her sound creepy or stalkery.

“Yes,” Rafael said, not seeming to notice. “This is my first time here, actually. To any other dimension, really.”

“Oh, well what brings you here?” she asked.

“Business, mostly,” Rafael explained.

“Are you planning on staying long?” she asked, surprising herself as the question just popped out. She was also startled by how excited the question was, even as it left her lips.

“Only for a few weeks, I'm afraid. Just until my job is done,” Rafael responded, also surprised by how sad his voice sounded just then.

“Oh,” Angela said, trying to keep the disappointment out of her voice. She forced herself to sound cheerful as she added, “I've always wanted to go to Earth, myself, actually. I hear it's a beautiful, lovely place!”

“Well, to be honest, I don't think anything back on Earth could even begin to compare to what this dimension has to offer,” Rafael admitted, with an awkward chuckle, rubbing at his neck. “Everything here is...” Rafael couldn't stop himself, as his gaze landed on Angela, lingering on her pretty face as he breathed the last words. “..quite beautiful.”

Angela felt her cheeks flush, but quickly cleared her throat, turning back to the flower in front of her. “So anyways,” she said, trying to regain her business-like tone, but unable to quite keep the squeak out of her voice. “These aren't ordinary Earth roses. These are called 'burning roses'.”

“Why do they call them that?” Rafael asked, but no sooner had the question left his throat, then he got his answer, as the vase full of flowers all lit themselves on fire, small flames flowing around the crimson roses. He screamed in shock, taking an instinctual step away from the roses and stumbling over a pile of discarded flower pots nearly falling onto another plant, which looked like a giant version of a venus flytrap, its vegetated jaws opened wide as it awaited its prey. Angela reached out a hand and grabbed the man's arm, ignoring the thick muscles she felt, before pulling him away from the deadly flower, the man panting breathlessly for a moment.

“Are you okay?” Angela asked, keeping a firm hold of his arm.

“Yes, I'm fine,” Rafael said, once he caught his breath again, though he could still feel his heart in his throat. Once she was sure the man was okay, she released her grasp, trying to not be disappointed in having to do so.

“I am so sorry!” Angela apologized, her green eyes wide with fear and guilt, kicking herself for nearly killing one of her customers and losing a possible sell. “I'm sure you probably want to leave now, I'm sorry for wasting your time-”

“No it's fine,” Rafael said, giving her the most comforting smile he could despite the adrenaline still pumping through his veins. Angela just froze, looking at him in shock. “I still would like a flower...” Rafael hesitated before adding a bit timidly, “...preferably one from you.”

Angela was silent for a moment, unsure what to say. To be honest, she hadn't expected him to continue trying to buy a flower from her. In fact, she had been expecting him to run out of her shop in an attempt to get as far away from her as possible.

“That is, if you still want me to,” Rafael continued, his caramel colored eyes cutting deep into her soul and doing strange and wonderful things to her heart, as it seemed to be refusing to beat in its proper rhythm. Finally, after a long moment of staring, Angela smiled at him and Rafael couldn't help but feel his world had just become a bit brighter from the act.

“Yes, of course,” Angela said, the relief in her voice unmistakable and Rafael felt great knowing he had cheered her up. “So which flower would you like to see now?” Angela asked, quickly looking around for the best and brightest (and least dangerous) flower she had, in hopes it could appease her customer, combing through the shelves in search of the perfect one.“We have so many kinds, after all. And not all of them are so... um, intense as the last ones.” Rafael held back a chuckle as the woman began rambling to herself, as she searched. “Let's see I think we have a Sparkling Snapdragon in here somewhere. Oh, but I do think those have a tendency to actually snap at people. Umm, what else? Well, we just ran out of the Unicorn's Breath and we won't be getting another supply from the Cloud Kingdom until next week. Uhhh, how about-”

“Which do you like best?” Angela looked up from her work, turning to her handsome customer with surprise and confusion in her wide green eyes.

“Huh?” she asked.

“Uh, the flowers,” Rafael repeated himself. “Which one is your favorite?”

“My favorite?” she asked, checking to see if she had heard him right, putting a hand to her chest as one of her eyebrows raising up in the cutest way...

Rafael felt his heart skip a beat at the adorable look and had to suck in a breath before he was able to speak properly again.“Yes, you do seem to know a lot about flowers and I can tell you truly love them,” Rafael explained.

“Oh, well I, uh...” Angela began, rising to her feet again, not sure how to respond to that. No one had ever asked her that before and she wasn't sure if she wanted to tell this random stranger something so personal. But she froze, as she eyed the man in front of her for a moment, his relaxed, curious smile making her feel at ease and even trusting of the man in a way she had never felt before toward anyone. And there was something about the way he stared at her, watching her intently with those beautiful caramel colored eyes as if he was staring at the most interesting sight in the world. She felt like he understood her, despite the fact she hadn't even told him her name yet and so without even realizing it, she found herself saying, “Crimson Lilies. My favorite are Crimson Lilies.”

“Crimson Lilies?” Rafael repeated, breathing the word out in wonderment.

“Yes, I mean, they aren't the most flashy or fancy of any of the flowers for sure, but I like them,” Angela said, rather nervously, as she bent to down to retreive the pot that was hidden under the counter. “They don't actually sell that well, though, because they're so plain looking. Most people want something more fancy and beautiful.” Finally, she hesitantly brought the pot into view and Rafael could instantly see what made her love the flowers so much. It was a fairly small flower, its six petals spread outwards in a beautiful manner, much like other lilies, but this one was a bright red color with yellow tips on each of the petals. It did look quite plain on first glance, but it's vibrant color was attractive to the eye and could easily hold its own on any other plant in the small shop. Plus, there was something nice about how simple the flower was, not trying to be anything impressive or fancy but just a nice, modest flower with an ordinary, but pleasant look.

The whole time, Angela watched him with waited breath, for some reason quite nervous about his reaction to her favorite flower, wanting him so badly to like it, almost needing him to. Why? What did it matter what he thought? He was just another customer, right? So why should it matter if he liked the Crimson Lilies or not. And yet, she still ached to know his answer.

“They are lovely,” he finally said, his gaze finally matching her own and Angela felt herself breath a sigh of relief.

“You really love them?” the Mewman woman asked, almost fearfully.

“Yes,” Rafael said with a nod. “In fact, I would like to buy one.”

Angela smiled, her eyes shimmering with joy and her cheek marks glowing softly, Rafael in awe at the sight, having never seen anything remotely like that before. He had seen a few Mewmans in his life so he was used to the cheek marks, but he had no idea that they could glow like that. “Great! Oh that's fantastic!” she cheered, quickly running to get her sheers so she could remove the flower without damaging it. Rafael just smiled, finding her bright enthusiasm impossible to resist, she had such a nice zest for life and he really appreciated that in a person.

Once Angela returned, she quickly clipped one of the flowers free from its brothers, wrapping the stem in a soft and easy to carry cloth, before handing it to the man. Rafael reached into his pocket to pull out his money and handed it to her. “Thank you for your business,” she said, pleasantly. “Miiissster...” she inquired, Rafael just then realizing that he had yet to tell her his name or asked for hers.

“Oh yes, I'm so sorry. Where are my manners?” he quickly stumbled his way around an apology, before rapidly stating, “It's Diaz. Rafael Diaz.”

“Angela,” the Mewman woman stated, reaching out a hand for him to shake and he happily obliged, as he repeated the name over and over again in his head, finding it perfect for the beautiful woman in front of him. “It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Diaz.”

“Just Rafael, please,” he said, giving her a brain-numbing smile, pulling out of the handshake.

“Well, Rafael, I'm sure whoever that flower is for will love it. She seems like a very lucky woman. ” Despite how much Angela knew it was bad idea, she couldn't quite help herself, as she found herself shamelessly flirting with the man in front of her, her gaze teasing and her lips forming the slightest crease of a smile. She even batted her eyelids a bit needlessly, as her allowed her hand to brush his for just an instant, leaving a tingling sensation in the tips of her fingers.

Rafael picked up on her change in tone and felt his face grow hot, the woman in front of him acting just a little bit more than friendly all of a sudden. And as he felt her fingers brush his own, a shudder rushing up his spine, he knew what the woman was trying to do. He looked down at the flower in his hands for a second, building up the courage for what he was about to do.

“Yes, she certainty is,” Rafael said his tone a bit flirty as well, as he held the flower out to her, offering it back to the woman.

Angela froze, eying the flower in surprise, before her bright green gaze switched to Rafael, his caramel brown eyes holding steady on her face, a deep and powerful emotion hidden behind them, as he just patiently awaited the young woman to take the lily flower. “What are you doing?” she asked, needlessly, her voice just a bit breathless.

“Giving you a flower,” he replied. “It is your favorite, after all.”

“Oh no, I can't accept this,” Angela politely declined, giving his hand a gentle push away from her.

But Rafael was persistent as he grabbed her hand and gently set the bright red flower onto her open palm. “Of course you can,” he said, sounding quite adamant about her taking it. “It's my flower, now, so it's mine to give to whoever I want.”

“But we've only just met,” Angela continued to argue. “I mean, I'm just a stranger to you. Why would you give me anything?”

Rafael shrugged. “I wanted to. Besides, I do feel a bit guilty for wasting your time. The truth is I didn't actually come in here to buy a flower.”

Angela froze at his confession, though she had already guessed as much, it was still quite strange to hear him admit to it. “Then why did you?” she asked, really hoping it was the answer she was thinking.

“So I could meet you,” he said and Angela felt her heart swell, as she was proven correct. A large grin spread across her face and her gaze became soft and loving as she looked at him. She gently squeezed the flower in her grip, as she shyly admitted, “Well, I'm glad you did. Thank you for the flower, Rafael.”

“Your welcome, Angela” he said, before he turned away to leave and Angela felt a wave of panic overwhelm her.

“Wait!” she shouted and the man quickly turned back around to face the beautiful young woman named Angela. She hesitated for a moment, feeling slightly embarrassment for the shout, but she finally asked, “Will you... be coming by again?” She gulped unable to believe she was really asking this. He was still just a stranger, after all. A stranger who had given her a flower, sure, but still a stranger. He was not obligated to return to the tiny shop for any reason and that is exactly what frightened her so much. She really wanted to see him again.

And after Rafael studied her face for a moment, he smiled and said, “Yes, I think I will come by again tomorrow. If you don't mind me wasting more of your time, that is.”

Angela shook her head vigorously. “No, not at all.” She paused before saying, in a sweet, borderline flirting tone, “I'll look forward to your visit, Rafael.”

“Then I will see you then, Angela,” he said back and the young woman felt a shiver run up her spine as he said her name, his voice so gentle and soft when he spoke the word. He treated it like it was the greatest compliment or flirt ever, instead of something as simple as her own name, but it felt so right and genuine hearing it come from him, that it got the exact same effect if he had said the sweetest remark possible.

And just like that, Rafael left, leaving both of the young adults breathless and longing for more, silently awaiting the moment when they would meet again.

…

“So that's how my parents first met?” Marco asked, his voice never losing an ounce of excitement, as his adopted father paused the story.

Buff Frog nodded his heard. “That's how I was told, at least,” he replied.

“Aww, how romantic,” Star gushed from the sidelines, many of the monsters doing the same.

Next to her Janna fake gagged and Jackie smacked her arm. “Oh stop it, you know you found it sweet, too,” Jackie scolded, seeing through her friends charade in a second.

Janna huffed, before crossing her arms in front of her chest. “Okay, maybe it was a little touching,” Janna admitted with a shrug.

“It was like something out of a fairytale,” Marco said, a smile gracing his lips. “Meeting and falling instantly in love.”

“Kinda like someone else we know,” Janna smirked, eying the blond next to her knowingly. Both Star and Marco blushed at that, but said nothing.

Marco coughed to clear his suddenly tight throat as he said, “Well don't stop now, Buff Frog. Keep going.” Though his words were demanding, his tone was quite the opposite, sounding warm and filled with delight, his brown eyes twinkling with anticipation.

Buff Frog just smiled, before obliging his son, continuing where he had left off, once again.

...

Rafael kept true to his word, as the next day he came to visit Angela, as well as the day after that and the day after that. In fact, every day for the next few weeks Rafael followed the exact same routine, he would stop by the small flower shop, talk to Angela for a short while, before buying another Crimson Lily and then immediately giving it to her. And every day, Angela would be overjoyed to see him every time he came in. The two became very close as the days went by, easily and happily opening up to one another, freely talking all about their lives and experiences, as they got to know each other personally. And soon, it seemed as though the two had never been apart, acting like they had been friends all their life, instead of growing up in completely different dimensions with no knowledge of the other's existence.

Both Rafael and Angela couldn't even remember what life had been like before they had met, they both went so perfectly together, fitting so fluidly and easily into their life that it seemed like they were supposed to be a part of it and quite honestly they liked it so much better that way.

So when the day did come for Rafael to return home, his work there complete as he went in for what could be his last visit with Angela, he couldn't bring himself to say goodbye to the beautiful Mewman. In fact, he instead impulsively stated that he was moving to Mewni, permanently. Angela was so overjoyed to hear that the man she was falling for wanted to remain on Mewni with her that, without thinking about it, she pulled him in for a kiss.

Rafael was surprised by the sudden act, but was so overjoyed and lost in her lips that he didn't push her away and instead allowed it to happen. When the two finally did separate, Angela quickly apologizing for acting so irrationally, Rafael surprised her with another gentle kiss, confessing that he had been waiting for that to happen since the moment they met and Angela quickly admitted to wanting the same, before they went it for another breathless kiss.

The two started dating after that and as time went on, their bond became even stronger and their love continued to grow. Eventually, the two got married, moving into a cozy little cottage on the edge of the Butterfly Kingdom's territory and just bordering on the monster's land. The home had been a wedding gift for Angela from her husband, knowing how much she enjoyed being out in nature and hated the hustle and bustle of city life. Life for the young couple was peaceful, as they lived out the early days of their marriage in love and harmony.

But soon, trouble arose as the monsters caught wind of the young couple who were staying on their land and became outraged by it. The monsters, already so low on rights and oppressed by the Mewmans, found it completely disrespectful that the Diazs would dare to try and claim their land for themselves, taking away the only right granted to them by the unfair Mewmans. They began to threaten the Diazs, claiming they would do mean and terrible things to them if they didn't leave and keeping a group of tough looking monsters almost constantly just in view of the cottage as a constant reminder and warning, trying to scare them into moving away.

But Rafael and Angela didn't budge, as they begged the monsters for the right to live there, explaining to them that they wanted nothing but to live their lives in peace and meant no harm to the monsters. But the monsters were too full of hate, not listening to the young couple's plea. Eventually, the current leader of the monsters caught wind of the trouble and showed up at their cottage one day, flanked by a large group of intimidating monsters. But before Rafael and Angela could even explain their plight, the leader gave them a chilling ultimatum: if they weren't gone from the monster's territory by early Spring that next year, then the monsters would have no choice but to take matter into their own hands. And then, as quickly and suddenly as he had appeared, he was gone taking his entourage of monsters with him.

Rafaela and Angela were of course frightened by the harsh threat, but felt at a loss of what to do next. They didn't want to leave their home, but the threat from the monsters hung thick in their minds. It was Rafael who came to the decision that they had no choice but to move, not wanting any harm to come to his wife. He proposed that they pack up and return to the Butterfly Kingdom where they would be safe from the monsters until they found a different place to stay. Angela reluctantly agreed.

But unfortunately, they never got the chance.

Winter came and it brought with it a harsh and uncaring cold that swept through the land. It was one of the worst winters Mewni had ever seen, rivaling only that of the very first winter the Mewmans experienced upon arriving to the new world. In fact, it was so cold that even the Underworld Kingdom was said to be freezing over. The world was covered in a blanket of ice and snow, snowdrifts piling higher than some houses, while the landscape was assaulted by a furious and unforgiving blizzard the likes of which no creature on Mewni had experienced in their lifetime. Many believed it to be a curse brought on by the Stump, who had grown furious with peoples lack of belief and decided to punish them for their skepticism. But most simply blamed it on snow dwarfs.

For days on end, the blizzard terrorized the landscape with its harsh, wintery breath, seeming to never slow or end. And as the days stretched on, many began to wonder if the winter storm would ever cease, as every day it only seemed to grow more and more intense.

All this boded very badly for Rafael and Angela Diaz, who found themselves now cut off from the Butterfly Kingdom, leaving them trapped in a cold and barren landscape, with the monster's ultimatum hanging ever thick in their minds. And yet, all they could do was wait and hope the storm ended soon.

A week passed and the blizzard showed no sign of stopping, so Rafael decided to bravely face the storm and try to make his way to the Butterfly Kingdom to get help. After bundling up as much as he could, he began his long and dangerous trek, as blinding snow stung his face and the violent wind tried everything in its power to knock the well-built man down. Still, Rafael pushed forward, reminding himself of what was at stake, keeping his thoughts on his lovely wife to help keep him going. Rafael had no idea how far he had traveled, nor if he was still even heading in the right direction and his resolved weakened. He took a moment to try and decide if he should push on and hope he was going the right way or try and backtrack and see if he needed to go a different direction.

Rafeal was just about to force his freezing muscles forward until suddenly he heard a small voice crying out in the distance, nearly drowned out by the harsh and unforgiving wind. Fearing the worst, Rafeal followed the weak sound, until he found a sad sight, almost hidden in a pile of snow. It was a young monster child laying huddled in the snow, his whole body shaking and shivering as he curled up on himself trying to find any form of warmth in the bitter coldness around him. Rafael felt his heart ache for the child and, forgetting his mission, carefully carried the child back to the house, making sure to hold him as close to his body as he could to help give him warmth. Once he returned home both he and Angela worked to nurse the monster back to health, caring for him to the best of their abilities. They wrapped him in warm blankets (even sacrificing a few of their own to do so), laying him down close to the fire as they spoon fed the shivering little thing spoons of warm and delicious soup, the child too weak to do it himself, as he felt his body slowly warming back up. At first, the child was weary of his saviors, his short few years having taught him of the cruelness of Mewmans, but he quickly overcame his fear as the Diazs love and compassion slowly helped him come around and see Rafael and Angela for the good people they were.

Meanwhile, the storm outside continued to rage, as cold and bitter snow and ice was flung hazardously to the ground, beating against the country home, but the residents within remained safe and warm as they waited out the winter storm. For the monsters, however, things were far from peaceful, they were in constant fear the moment they realized one of their own was missing. Not knowing he was in the safe and capable hands of the Diazs, they worried that the young one's life had been claimed by the blizzard and many had given up hope that one so young could have survived such and ordeal.

And finally, after what felt to Mewni like a lifetime, the storm finally passed, the snow drifts left behind melting as the bright sun returned to shine over the enchanted kingdom once more. As soon as they were able, the monsters went in search of the missing child, led by the monster leader himself as they desperately looked for the young one. They eventually came across the cottage, only to find the boy in the care of the Diazs, much to their shock and outrage. The monsters once again blinded by their hate, believed that they had stolen the young monster to use as a bargaining chip, using the storm to cover up their crime. The leader of the monsters had been ready to sentence them both to death for their supposed treachery, as the truth finally came out who exactly had been staying under the Diazs roof and care all this time. The young monster boy was none other than the leader's only son an future ruler of monster kind. To say Rafael and Angela were in shock upon hearing this was an understatement, but they now feared the worst for themselves, knowing the monsters wouldn't listen to their pleas. But before, the leader could condemn the Diazs the child spoke up for them, telling the monsters how they had saved him from the storm and nursed him back to health.

Of course, the monsters were surprised to hear this, none moreso than their leader, unable to believe Mewmans capable of such kindness. He told them that he owed them a debt of gratitude for saving his son and that they would be spared, much to their gratitude and relief. But the leader wasn't finished yet, as he further declared that from that day forth Rafael and Angela, as well as any who carried the Diaz name, would be forever considered an ally and friend to the monsters and would be protected from harm. And of course, the young couple was allowed to live there for as long as they saw fit.

Rafael and Angela were obviously overjoyed to hear they could stay, but were also slightly humbled to know that they were now thought of so highly in the monster community. And the monsters adhered to the rule, treating the two Mewmans with as much respect as they would their own, their name almost holding a regality amongst their numbers.

But the Diazs didn't let the weight of this new position go to waste. In the years to come they cared for many, many monsters, their home becoming a place of sanctuary that any monster was allowed to visit at any time, to the point that sometimes their small, two-story house would be overflowing with guests of all shapes and sizes, but they didn't mind, enjoying having company and lively energy in their home.

But they didn't stop there. They would also vocally protect the monsters from the Mewmans, jumping to their side on the rare occasion there was an incident between the two races, and even petitioned Butterfly Castle, calling for them to change their laws and give the monsters more rights and freedom, trying desperately to rally any and all Mewmans to their side to no avail. In fact, they were vastly ignored by the majority of Mewmans, though some showed clear distaste for their strange love of monsters. Eventually, it came as no shock, when they were shunned from Mewman society, none daring to associate with them and the Diazs resided themselves to living amongst nature and the monsters. Not that they minded this too much. They had a purpose in life and they intended to give everything they had to fulfilling it, no matter the cost.

…

“Wow, my parents were incredible!” Marco said, as Buff Frog's finished up his tale, absorbing the information. “Saving a monster kid from a blizzard, opening up their home, and fighting for Monster rights even though all the Mewmans thought they were crazy. They really did do a lot to help the monsters out.”

“Da,” Buff Frog agreed. “Your parents were good people.”

“Must be where you get it from, Marco,” Star said, causing Marco to turn to her with a shy grin.

“And to think none of that would have happened if they hadn't saved that kid. Otherwise the Monsters might have just killed them,” Jackie pointed out.

“This is also true,” Buff Frog said. “Is strange how things work out. Bad situation turning into a good one. Your parents made most of what they had.”

Marco nodded his head in agreement for a few seconds, looking deep in thought. “But what happened to that Monster, the one they saved, y'know afterwards?” Marco asked, looking up at his frog father with curiosity in his eyes.

Buff Frog got a soft look on his face, before he said quietly, “He became very close to parents. They were nearest and dearest friends. Over years, he grew to love them as if they were part of family. And they treated him as if he was, too.”

The frog Monster drifted off into silence, not saying a word, his eyes distant and Marco became concerned why his father seemed so sad all of a sudden, sharing a look with his three friends. “Buff Frog?” he questioned, hoping his dad would respond. But after several seconds of silence, he asked, “Did... Did you know him?”

Buff Frog chuckled a bit at that. “Actually, Marco, little monster baby... was me.”

The four teens, as well as Lobster Claws, all gasped at that, blown away by this revelation. The Monsters all turned to Lobster Claws with questioning looks, Beard Deer, asking, “Why are you surprised? We already knew that?”

“Oh yeah, I kinda forgot,” Lobster Claws said, a bit sheepishly, and the Monsters all either face-palmed or shook their heads in disbelief at their fellow Monster's stupidity.

“So wait,” Marco said, drawing everyone's attention back to the situation at hand. “Your dad was the leader of the Monsters back then?”

“Da, my father, Volkoz Bulgolyubov, was ruler of Monster kind, as was his father before him and his father before him. The Bulgolyubov's had been ruling the Monsters for countless generations. I was set to take his place, until...” Buff Frog's voice drifted off and Marco felt his heart clench, knowing what came next.

“Toffee,” Marco mumbled under his breath, the very name sending a chill down his spine.

“Da,” Buff Frog said sadly. He took a deep breath, before continuing much stronger, “He was right hand Monster to my father after old one retired. He came recommended, but he and my father didn't get along. He insisted we fight Mewmans and take land back, but my father didn't agree. I very suspicious of Toffee, but not much I could do to stop him. I suspected that he and another Monster, Ludo, were plotting something bad, but I had no proof of such things.”

Buff Frog paused for a moment, seeming to find the strength to continue, Marco able to tell that this was hard for his father to talk about. “Dad, it's okay,” Marco said, putting a comforting hand on his adopted father's beefed up arm. “You don't have to-”

“No, no, Marco,” Buff Frog insisted, shaking his head, as if to free himself from the sadness and grief that consumed him. “You need to know full story.” Though Marco could tell Buff Frog was still choked up with it, Marco nodded, pulling closer to his dad and leaning his head against his muscular chest. Buff Frog smiled at the comforting action, running a claw softly though his son's hair, as he continued his story. “One night, my worst fear was confirmed. I was away on mission when I got word that my father was found dead in bedchambers. I rushed home, only to find that he had passed away in sleep.”

“What happened?” Star asked.

Buff Frog looked up at her for a moment, with a startling depressed gaze. “Nobody knew. Most believed it to be caused by heart attack.” Buff Frog stopped stroking his son's head as his claw clenched into a tight fist. “But I never believed it, my father was healthy and very cautious. He took great care in protecting himself and me. Always told me to be careful, even built secret passages into castle, in case of emergency.”

“Well that explains how you knew about them when we went to rescue Marco,” Janna pointed out.

“Da, though I didn't expect Toffee to know of one,” Buff Frog said.

“So then, if your dad died, wouldn't that make you the new leader, not Toffee?” Jackie asked, confused.

“That is what supposed to happen,” Buff Frog answered. “But to my surprise, Toffee was claiming himself new leader. He told Monsters that he could help bring new peace and free them from Mewman rule. Sadly, my kind bought into his lies.”

The other Monsters hung their heads in shame, feeling guilty for believing Toffee's lies for as long as they did, knowing they had been a part of the problem.

“Why didn't you just challenge him?” Star asked. “The position was rightfully yours after all, wouldn't the Monsters have followed you if you had?”

Now it was Buff Frog's turn to look guilty. “I suppose it would have helped, but Toffee was very clever and cunning. Any attempt I made to take position back, he would easily counter. But now I see I just didn't try hard enough. You must understand, friends, I was very young at time and still grieving death of father. I was new to ruling and didn't think I had what it took to beat Toffee and in way wasn't sure if I would make good leader.” He said it more like an apology than a statement.

“Still it was hard to watch in silence as Toffee took my father's place,” Buff Frog continued. “He gave me position as right hand Monster, though I know it more out of show of power than anything else. As time went on, I began to see hatred Toffee was stirring up in Monsters and knew it wouldn't be long before war began. That is when I began to fear for your parents.”

Marco's eyes glazed over with pain, as they slowly dropped to the floor, every word now feeling like a stab to the gut. “Though father's decree to protect them still stood and must be honored, I knew Toffee hated them deeply. They were symbol of peace to Monsters and if they died, Toffee could spread words of hate much easier. It would be risk on his part, but if he could find way around it, I knew lizard wouldn't pass up on opportunity.

“So I urged parents to flee from Mewni, back to Earth, where they would be safe, but they wouldn't go.”

“Why didn't they?!” Marco asked in nearly a shout, his voice tight with emotion. “Then they would have been safe!”

“Because that is when they found out your mother was pregnant with you,” Buff Frog explained. Marco felt tears beginning to well up in his eyes as his father continued. “Traveling through dimensions with unborn child could cause complications and they didn't dare risk harming you.” Marco felt his throat close up, a lump permanently implanted there. “They were not welcomed by Mewmans, so I had no choice but to keep your existence secret, until you born and old enough to travel through portal.”

Marco looked up for a second, his eyes locking with Star, as he noticed her worried gaze lingering on him. He knew from the look in her stunning pupils that she could tell how deeply this was hurting him, wondering for a moment, if she could feel what he was feeling like they had at the ball.

“ I did everything in power to keep lizard and rest of Monsters from discovering truth about you. I feared worst if Toffee discovered your parents had heir and worked tirelessly to keep old friend's safe.”

Marco couldn't take anymore, as he suddenly burst out, “So it's my fault!” Marco sobbed, allowing the tears to flow free, as he buried his head in his hands, his voice quivering with every word. “I-I'm the reason my parents are-are-”

“No!” Buff Frog interrupted, his voice firm but with a comforting undertone, as he pulled the boy onto his lap and wrapped his arms around him in a tight embrace. “No, do not think for one second that you are cause. Your parents loved you so much that they would protect you with life.”

Buff Frog just held the boy close for a minute, softly shushing him, until the boy's gasped breaths and sobs died down and he gained control over himself again. He looked over to see Star now beside them, gently running a hand through the boy's hair, sympathy and unshed tears shining in her eyes, hating to see her boyfriend so upset.

“You parents wanted you so badly, Marco,” Buff Frog continued. “All they had ever wanted was child and the day you came into world, was happiest I had ever seen them.”

Marco sniffed, saying softly, “You were there?”

Buff Frog smiled down at his adopted child, “Yes, yes Marco, I was there that day. And it is memory I carry with me always.” He rubbed his son back, lovingly, as the memory poured over him, recalling the memory aloud, recounting it as if he were there once again, that fateful day.

…

Buff Frog was anxious, not sure why he was there anymore. He was no help to anyone, just standing numbly and confusedly in the corner as Rafael and the two Mewman nurse maids ran around in a panicked blur, caring to the pregnant woman's every need, trying to quickly and efficiently help the delivery go smoothly. He had been honored when his old friends had asked him to be present for the birth, at first, but now he found himself in way over his head and in the most awkward position he could ever find himself in. In fact, he was starting to wish he had declined their offer, as he had been listening to his dear friend Angela's screams for the past 37 hours now. He honestly didn't know how she had a voice left after loudly shouting at the top of her lungs for so long.

But he knew the real reason he had agreed. He needed to be there, to make sure the two of them (soon to be three of them) were kept safe. Ever since Toffee had come into power and had been making threats against the Mewmans, Buff Frog had feared for his two closest friends. It was all talk for now, no Mewman luckily harmed yet by the lizard's dark promises, but he knew that could change very soon. The other monsters were starting to rally behind their new leader, though still a bit unsure of his methods, and his poisonous words were beginning to seep their way into their minds, wrapping around their brains and giving them a new fire and purpose. They were all so tired of oppression that Buff Frog was sure many of them wouldn't hesitate to do whatever the lizard asked if it meant freeing themselves from their miserable lives.

Which is why, Buff Frog still didn't understand why his old friends hadn't headed his warning when he had told them that they would be a target of Toffee. They knew Toffee was dangerous, the few times they had tried to vocalize in the Mewman's defense in his presence since his reign began, Toffee's normally calm exterior had cracked, reveling a far more malicious creature within as his sinister glare had frozen on them, the look sending chills deep into their very core as they felt his dark intentions from even a distance away. But, they had refused to leave, wanting to stay and wait till their child was old enough and strong enough for travel, much to Buff Frog's exasperation.

He knew having a child was important to them, but if they were killed before that happened then what good would that do them. Weren't their lives worth the risk? Wasn't their child's safety more guaranteed back on Rafael's homeworld? At the moment, he couldn't think of a dimension more dangerous for the Diaz's now than this world and that included a dimension that regularly rained toxic acid from the sky.

Plus, he knew Rafael and Angie. His old friends were immensely stubborn. He had no doubt that a part of them didn't want to run from all they had worked toward. They had spent years fighting for peace in Mewni and he knew it had to be hard for them to give up on that dream just because of one monster. He knew how hard it had been for him to accept defeat, but this was the world they lived in now. All that mattered was that his friends were safe. And Rafael and Angela were the only things resembling family he really had left.

A high-pitched cry pulled Buff Frog from his thoughts. It seemed that while he was lost in his daydreams, the birth had concluded, as the nursemaids wrapped a screaming thing in blankets, Angela laying against her pillows with exhaustion etched into her features, sweat glistening from her forehead. “There now, Angie,” one of the nursemaids said softly, as she looked down at the tired mother. “You have yourself one beautiful, healthy boy.”

“Oh my, honey, did you hear that?” Rafael said, from beside his wife. He lifted her hand and placed a tender kiss upon it. “A boy, just like we wanted.”

“A boy,” Angela whispered wistfully, though her voice was still strained with exhaustion. Her eyes were half-lidded as if she were fighting sleep, her every breath panted.

Then all at once, Angela's fatigue was forgotten, as the smiling nursemaid handed the bundle to his eager mom, Angela looking into the face of her child for the first time. It was love at first sight, as the child's crying slowly ceased as he looked up into the green loving gaze of his mother. There were tears laced in Angela's eyes as she smiled down at her baby, Buff Frog practically able to feel the love and joy coming off of the new mom, as she gently rocked her son in her arms. “Hello, baby,” she said down to him, her tone soothing and soft.

Rafael, moved so that he was able to see his son, as well, putting a loving and comforting arm around his wife. The new father stared at his son for about five seconds, before tears rose to his own eyes, not ever caring as they flowed freely down his face. “He's beautiful,” the man said, to no one in particular, his voice so strained with emotion that it sounded like it almost hurt him to be this overwhelmingly happy.

“He has your eyes,” Angie said, never taking her eyes off of the child for a single second, gently reaching into the swaddling cloth to presumably run a hand on his smooth cheek.

“And he had your smile,” Rafael added, leaning his head against his wife's.

“What shall we call him?” Angela asked.

Rafael thought for a moment, before answering. “Marco,” he finally said, as his eyes took in every feature of his new baby's face.

“Marco Diaz,” Angela repeated, trying out the name. She hummed thoughtfully for a second before saying, “Yes, I think that's perfect.”

Buff Frog sniffed, wiping a tear out of his eye, finding the moment touching and sweet. He turned to leave wanting to give the new parents their privacy, but was stopped as a voice called out to him. “Buff Frog?” Angela said, the frog turning back to his old friend. She gave him a soft smile, looking away from her child for the first time, as she asked kindly, “Would you like to hold him?”

Buff Frog was taken aback by the offer, visibly freezing up in front of his friends, who just continued to cast smiles his way. “I-I, uh,” he stuttered, unsure how to answer. He was just there to make sure things went smoothly, he hadn't actually expected to take part in any of it. “No, no, don't want to intrude on moment,” he finally said, declining their offer in the most humble way he could.

“Nonsense,” Rafael said, waving the frog's hesitancy away. “You aren't intruding, you're part of this family, too. And Marco's godfather.”

“Wait, I am,” Buff Frog said in shock. This was the first he was hearing of this.

“Well, of course you are, Buff Frog,” Angie said sweetly. “That is, if you want to be.”

Buff Frog pounded a fist against his chest. “Would be great honor,” he said, proudly.

Angela and Rafael shared a look. “Then come over here and hold your godchild,” Angela pushed. Buff Frog approached hesitantly, almost fearfully, as he creeped closer to the new mom. She held out the baby in waiting, as the frog gingerly took the child from her, moving slowly and carefully, afraid if he didn't the child might break in his muscular arms.

Angela noticed this and told him reassuringly, “Oh, Buff Frog you don't have to be so tense, you aren't hurting him.”

This didn't ease Buff Frog's worries any, as he still held the newborn awkwardly in his arms, giving a pleading look to the couple. Rafael thankfully jumped to his rescue, stepping around the bed and showing Buff Frog how to properly hold the child, the amphibian looking far more relaxed once he had.

Finally, the frog looked down at the child of his oldest friend's and his body froze up once more. “Buff Frog, is something wrong?” Angela asked, worriedly, seeing her monster companion tensing up. But Buff Frog's throat was too tight to respond, as he swallowed back the lump that was slowly building. Time seemed to come to a stand still as he took in the small face staring back at him. Two perfectly beautiful brown eyes, so full of life and innocence stared at him, curiously examining the monster holding him with no fear. Small strands of soft looking brown hair framed a tanned face, a small little mole dotted just below his left eye making him look too cute for words. A soft smile lit up Marco's face and he giggled at seemingly nothing, the very sound melting Buff Frog's heart. And last but not least, were the two stunning suns glowing bright red on his cheeks, which only burned with more intensity when he laughed.

“Buff Frog?” Angela tried again, wanting to make sure her friend was okay, but Buff Frog barely heard her, still dazzled by the small, little thing currently held in his arms. Buff Frog had never seen anything more beautiful and pure in all his life and he couldn't help himself as he found his eyes welling up with tears. “No,” Buff Frog finally replied to Angela, once he got his voice back again, though it was soft and low. “Everything is fine.”

Angela gave him a soft smile, as she watched her friend, holding the baby close to him, as if trying to show his love and protectiveness toward the child already. Buff Frog just couldn't believe how incredible this was, here he stood, holding a brand new life, a miracle in every meaning of the word. Marco was just so tiny and delicate, looking so helpless in Buff Frog's beefed up arms, and at that very moment the frog swore that he would protect this baby, that no harm would ever befall the child on his watch.

Just like Marco's parents, Buff Frog had fallen in love with this child, instantly. And he knew his life would never be the same again. And he welcomed the future with open arms.

After another moment, Buff Frog handed the baby back to his parents, allowing them to admire and fuss over their infant, as they continued to soak in the new life they had helped create. They both held the baby close to them, staring down at his soft, little face with unparalleled love.

Despite the darkness that was beginning to slowly spread across the dimension of Mewni, for one family at least, the sun seemed to shine a little brighter that day, for that was the day that Marco Ubaldo Diaz, son of Rafael and Angela Diaz, half-human, half-Mewman child, was brought into this world.

…

“So you see Marco, parents loved you moment they laid eyes on you, as did I,” Buff Frog finished, giving his son a reassuring squeeze. Marco was wiped his eyes free of the tears that had started flowing half-way through the story. Only this time his tears weren't of regret or guilt, but instead of joy. His parents had loved him, they had really, truly loved him. Enough to risk their lives for his own sake.

But there was another emotion he felt, hidden behind all the others, one that caused a lump to implant itself deep in his throat and his heart to ache. Loss. He had felt this emotion before, most notably when Toffee had first told him of his parent's true fate, but this time it felt even stronger if that was possible. Because now he knew just how much his parents had cared for him and now he would never truly experience it. He would never feel the warmth of their hugs or know their smiles, he would never hear their voices as they told him how much they loved him. No, he would never know what any of that felt like, because it was stolen away from him by Toffee, the cruel lizard killing any chance he had of a life with his birth family.

“And then-then Toffee killed them, right?” Marco said, once he had gained enough of his voice to speak, though the lump that continued to choke him. His body shuddered as he said the name, trying not to imagine his families last moments as they died to the cruel hands of the heartless Monster.

Buff Frog gave his son a sad look. “Da,” was all he could make himself say.

“And you know what happened? That night...” Marco asked after a moment.

“Da, but...” Buff Frog said hesitantly, looking deep into the hurt in his son's brown orbs.

Star put a hand on Marco's shoulder. “Marco, you don't have to push yourself,” she said with concern. “There's no shame in wanting to wait. It's okay if you aren't ready.”

Marco considered her words. He took in a shaky breath trying to steal his nerve. He had to know, no matter how painful it would be, he had to see this story all the way through. He had to know what had happened that dreaded night.

Finally, Marco shook his head, saying as firmly as he could, “No, I want to know the rest.” His voice faltered a little, but everyone could hear the resolve in his shaky tone.

Buff Frog sighed. “Very well.”

…

Buff Frog slammed the door to the Diaz's house open, not even bothering to knock, thus startling the residents within. “Buff Frog?” Rafael said in surprise, rising from his seat on his comfy sofa. But he instantly grew concerned when he saw the fear in his old friend's eyes, the monster panting heavily in front of him, looking on the verge of collapsing. “What's wrong?” he asked, as the gasping Buff Frog shuffled into the house, closing the door behind him and locking it firmly.

“Toffee is coming!” Buff Frog said, as he turned back around, his voice still slightly breathless, but the seriousness in his winded accent sent chills down Rafael's spine.

“Really, are you sure?” Rafael asked, as Buff Frog moved to look out the curtains, which raised even greater concern in Rafael, which wasn't stilled any as Buff Frog breathed a breath of relief, letting him know they were safe for the moment. He was acting as if he expected the lizard to already be there, how much time did they have?

“Da, positive. Though it seems I beat him here,” Buff Frog said, his tone grave.

Well at least that answers that, Rafael thought, though now he could see just how perilous a situation they were in. The two heard creaking above them and they turned to see Angela coming down the stairs, a look of confusion on her face.

She had just been putting Marco to bed, when she had heard the door slam. She had been fearful it would wake Marco, but to her relief the boy slept on, his face peaceful as he was lost to a world of innocent dreams. She had quickly left the room to go see what had caused the disturbance only to spot her husband and Buff Frog. Though it seemed it wasn't a pleasant visit, as the two hovered close to the door, whispering worriedly to each other, the look of fear on their faces setting off red flags in Angie's mind.

When they turned to her, she looked between the two for a moment before asking, “What's going on?”

“Toffee is on way,” Buff Frog quickly explained and Angela felt her heart stop, putting a hand to her mouth as her eyes widened in fear.

“No,” she murmured in disbelief.

“How do you know this?” Rafael asked, as he put a comforting arm around his wife, trying vainly to still her fears.

“Saw him sneaking out of castle,” Buff Frog explained. “I caught a glimpse of his eyes and saw murder in them.”

“But you don't know that that means he will come here,” Rafael weakly argued, trying to cling to some kind of hope that they would be spared Toffee's wrath.

Buff Frog shook his head, before saying darkly, “He will come. You are biggest threat to his plans.”

“But I thought you said Toffee wouldn't attack us without risking the monsters turning against him,” Angela pointed out.

“Toffee is crafty. He will find way to cover tracks, I have no doubt,” Buff Frog replied. Rafael and Angela looked at each other helplessly. They had known that this day would come, hoping to stall long enough till they could leave, but it seemed their time had finally run out. “You must hurry and leave, could be here at any moment,” Buff Frog told them, urgency in his tone.

“Oh, Rafael, what do we do about Marco?” Angela asked, clutching her husband's hands tightly, fear for her son causing her to almost break down in panic. “He's still too young to go through dimensional portals.”

“We will just have to move him somewhere safe on Mewni, for now,” Rafael said, giving his wife's hand a reassuring squeeze.

“I have safe place for you all. It will hide you from Toffee for a while,” Buff Frog reassured them. And it was true, he had spent months trying to find such a location in just such an emergency, though he had hoped he wouldn't have to use it. It was in the middle of a filthy swamp, one that was almost deserted, even the locals staying clear of the area. There was apparently some kind of rumor going around about some kind of beast living within the bog and that was enough to scare off any trespassers from going there. It would be safe, the amphibian knew it was the last place Toffee would think to look, but he had hesitated taking them there. As safe as the bog was, it was hardly a place for an infant, especially one as young as Marco.

But now it seemed they had no choice, the monster hardening his resolve as he made his decision. He would protect the Diazs with his life if he had to. He turned back to the window, drawing the curtains partially back, as he said to his friends, “I will stand guard while you make preparations, then I take you to safe place-”

“No.” Buff Frog froze at the firm voice he heard from the normally sweet Angela, turning around to face the young woman in confusion. Her green eyes held a level of fire in them which he had never seen before. “You take Marco to safety, we'll stay here and hold off Toffee as long as we can.”

Buff Frog felt his heart stop at the crazy idea, as he loudly argued, “What, no?! I get you all out of here!”

“There isn't time,” Rafael said, a finality to his tone that caused Buff Frog to shiver. “You must get Marco away, before Toffee arrives. He cannot know about him.”

“But you will die!” Buff Frog shouted, fear clenching tightly to his chest. But he saw the stubbornness in his old friend's eyes, they had already made up their mind and nothing was going to change it. Still, Buff Frog had to try. “I will not allow you to throw lives away like this! Think of Marco, do you want him to never know of parents?!” Rafael and Angela flinched at that, but stood firm, much to Buff Frog's dismay.

“We are thinking of Marco,” Rafael argued. “And as much as we don't want to leave him, we will if it means keeping him safe.”

The amphibian was almost in tears at this point. Rafael and Angie were like family to him, he wasn't sure if he could bear losing anyone else to Toffee's dark ambition.

“Please, Buff Frog,” Angie begged, the desperation in her voice shaking the monster's resolve. “You must protect Marco. His life is all that matters.”

For a moment, Buff Frog just stared at the two parents, their eyes filled with love and an unshattering will and his filled with tears and hurt. But he couldn't fight it, he couldn't deny their last request to him. “Very well,” Buff Frog said softly, his voice sounding so weak and vulnerable even to him, like it was on the verge of breaking. The words felt like acid on his tongue, knowing he had just sentenced them to death.

“Thank you,” Angela whispered, sounding so relieved, but that only hurt Buff Frog more. He knew it was there wish but he felt as if he had betrayed them, making him feel as if he had killed them himself.

But there was no time for grief or guilt, as the parents quickly headed upstairs to their son's bedroom, Buff Frog following numbly behind. As the Diazs opened the door, Buff Frog could hear the gentle chime of the boy's mobile, as well as the almost inaudible snores of the child, as he slowly breathed in and out. Rafael and Angela gathered around the boy's crib, looking down at their son with sad eyes, trying so hard not to break down into tears, as they stared at their son's lovely face for what would be the last time.

Seeing him nearly broke both of their resolve, as their thoughts betrayed them, reminded of the future they would never see for their son. They would miss him growing up, never see his first steps or hear him say his first words. They would never see him fall in love or get married. They would never see their grandkids. So many experiences that so many other parents got to see and for a moment they were jealous of all the parents in the world for the things they got to see.

If there was any way for Rafael and Angela to take it back, they would have in a heartbeat. But they couldn't. If Toffee found out about Marco, their son would never be safe, the lizard would never stop hunting him. They had to protect him. They just had to.

Angela gently lifted Marco from his crib holding him close in her arms. Rafael wrapped himself around his wife, holding both her and their child in a tight, protective hug, as he tried in some way to console his heartbroken wife. The boy didn't wake, cuddling into his parents' warm embrace, not aware that this would be his final moments with the both of them. His warmth was so soothing and soft that it made Angela ache, but she blinked back tears as she whispered into Marco's ear, “Marco. I know you are too young to understand this, but we have to say goodbye now.” Marco, unknowingly shifted in his sleep, his small head burying itself into his mother's neck. “We're going to go away, but we want you to know that everything we did, we did out of love.” Angela's voice cracked and Rafael took over, as his wife struggled to find her voice again.

“And we know you are going to grow up into something so great and wonderful. You are going to change the world my son and we will be proud of whoever you become.” Rafael gently ran a hand through Marco's soft brown hair, tears blinding his vision.

“And just know that we love you, Marco,” Angela continued, her voice barely audible, moving the child so she could place her forehead against his. “And nothing will ever change that. And though it may seem like we are gone, a part of us will be with you. Always.” As Angela whispered this promise, both her and Marco's cheek marks glowed, showing the love and connection of mother and son.

Buff Frog didn't dare to interrupt the moment, just watching the parents sadly, as they held their son for the last time. He felt his heart break as silent tears ran down both of their faces, as they just clung to their child, trying to fill him with a lifetime of love and affection.

Finally, the two pulled out of the hug, Rafael wiping tears from his eyes, as Angela wrapped the baby in a soft, red blanket before approached Buff Frog, the amphibian trying to ignore the broken look in her eyes as she handed him her son. “Take good care of him, Buff Frog,” she said in a strained voice.

“I will,” he said earnestly, trying to reassure the mother that her son was in safe hands. She leaned down and gave her baby a tender kiss on the head, Marco smiling in his sleep. Rafael approached the monster and baby and did the same as his wife, giving him a final parting kiss, running a hand a final time through his hair.

But the moment was interrupted as they heard a crash come from downstairs. “Hurry Buff Frog!” Angela shouted in alarm, pushing the monster deeper into the nursery.

“How will I get out?!” Buff Frog asked, sounding slightly panicked.

“Use the window,” Rafael said, throwing the window to the room open, a rush of cold air sweeping into the room. But the three adults were too distracted by the danger below to care about the sudden drop in temperature, as Angela quickly shouted, “We'll stall Toffee, just get Marco to safety!”

Buff Frog didn't argue as he put one webbed foot onto the tiny windowsill, it was a tight fit, but Buff Frog could just barely make it through, so long as he sucked in his breath. The frog pulled Marco in close to him, before taking one last look back at the Diazs, who clung to each other with sad looks in the their eyes. Buff Frog felt a single tear trail down his cheek, as he mumbled, “Goodbye, my friends.”

With that Buff Frog launched himself out the window and landing safely on the ground below. He pulled Marco away from himself long enough to make sure he was okay, but to his relief the boy slept on. Then, without hesitation, he ran into the woods, getting himself out of view from the house, fearing the lizard might look outside and see him.

Meanwhile, within the once peaceful country home, stood Toffee, looking around the small living room with a disapproving look. The door behind him was ripped off its hinges, showing how he had entered and his arms were crossed behind his back. He stood tall and firm, his jaw set in a tight line. He looked more like he was about to conduct a business meeting rather than assassinate an innocent family. And somehow this unnerved the Diazs all the more.

Toffee either suddenly sensed their presence or heard a creak from the stairs, as he suddenly whipped his head around to stare at them, his face switching to one of disgust. The two tried not to show fear as they descended the final steps, now only a few feet from the terrifying lizard. “Toffee, what brings you here this late?” Rafael asked, suspicion in his tone.

Toffee smirked, before hiding it behind his emotionless mask once more. “I'm not in the mood for games tonight, Mr. Diaz, so don't even bother to pretend. You know why I'm here,” Toffee said in an almost bored tone.

Angela tensed up at the directness of the monster leader, but kept a brave face as she said, “We mean you no harm. Please just leave us in peace.”

Toffee shook his head. “I'm afraid I can't do that. You two inspire too much resistance in my monsters,” he said simply. Though his tone darkened some as he added, “Besides, I already gave you plenty of opportunities to stay out of my way and yet you refused at every turn.”

This seemed to anger Rafael as he snapped, “That's because you were trying to start a war with our people! To turn the monsters against us! How could we stand by and do nothing!”

Toffee seemed amused by this. “Your people? What a hypocritical thing to say, coming from a lowly Earthling!” Toffee exaggerated the word 'Earthling' as if it were some kind of insult, which only preceded to infuriate his wife.

“Do not insult my husband's upbringing!” Angela yelled at the vile creature, trying to think of the most vulgar insult to shoot back at him. “You- You monster!”

Toffee's eyes seemed to narrow at this, anger on his face for the first time since arriving. “So now you show your true selves don't you?” Toffee hissed. He stalked closer to the woman but she refused to back down, until she was face to face with the lizard. “Tell me, dear Angela, do you know who first came up with that certain term for our species?”

Angela remained silent, as she just continued to glare down the lizard, Rafael watching the uneasy exchange with clear discomfort, fearing his wife's safety. He looked into the fire that was burning behind her stunning green orbs. He couldn't think of a time when she was ever this angry.

“It was the Mewmans,” Toffee continued, when Angela failed to answer. “When they arrived here, stealing our land and attacking us, they called us 'monsters'. Saw us as nothing more than vile, evil creatures. Even our names are an insult and every time that word is spoken it is just further proof of the cruelness of Mewmans.”

Angela's gaze seemed to soften for just a moment. “But that's why we want to change the laws, to give monsters an equal standing with us,” the Mewman woman said, pouring her heart into the speech, some small part of her clinging to the hope that she could convince Toffee to change. “Isn't that what you want?”

Toffee stared at her for a long time, before saying, “No.” He leaned in closer to the woman, a sick, twisted grin spreading across his face. “I want the Mewmans to perish, only then will my race thrive.”

There was terror in Angela's face as she backed away from the monster, Rafael jumping in front of her. “You will not get away with this, Toffee!” Rafael screamed. “If we die then the other monsters will find out and know what you did!”

Toffee looked over to the coffee table, where a lone candle lay, flickering and blinking in its vain attempt to light the dark room. Rafael followed the gaze and felt his heart stop, instantly understanding what the lizard was planning.

“No, I don't think they will,” Toffee said, as he knocked the candle over, the flame catching on the coffee table, lighting the wood up in flames, and quickly spreading across the smooth surface and quickly jumping down the leg, as small patches of flames hissed to the ground.

Rafaela and Angela gasped, as they watched the fire beginning to consume their beautiful home, Toffee turning back to them with another sinister grin, flames flickering in his serpent eyes. “Now then, where were we?”

…

Buff Frog smelt the smoke before he saw the fire. He was heading away from the country house as quickly as he could, trying not to jolt around the sleeping child too much, afraid to wake him, when he caught a whiff of smoke in the air. He turned back in the direction of the country home he had just left and felt his heart stop as he saw the smoke rising into the air. He didn't even hesitate as he turned back around, his feet moving without his consent. The next thing Buff Frog knew he was back at the house, watching as flames filled every inch of the once beautiful home and he felt his heart thumping in his chest. He did a quick survey and saw that Toffee was nowhere in sight. The lizard must have already left, fleeing the scene of the crime, before anyone arrived to help.

Buff Frog stashed Marco into a nearby bush, making sure he was well hidden, before running over to try and help his old friends. His mind was screaming at him to leave, trying to remind him of the promise he had made, but he ignored it, as he desperately searched for any sign of the Diazs, praying that they were somehow still alive. He continued his vain attempts to enter the home, trying to push fallen boards covered in flames out of his way, loudly calling their names, as his body become covered in soot and ash, his breathing heavy and labored. Tears would have covered his cheeks had he not been so close to the fire, the heat drying up any tears the monster shed.

Finally, after several minutes of searching, Buff Frog gave up the search. It was no use. They were gone. They were really gone. And he hadn't been able to save them.

Suddenly, Buff Frog was pulled from his sad thoughts as he heard a cry off to the side. He walked back over to the bush, his body sagging in defeat and as he parted the bush, he saw a pair of brown eyes staring up at him, filled with bright curiosity. Marco's cries were halted for only a few seconds before they started back up again, the baby screaming his lungs out as he tried to communicate his distress.

Buff Frog shushed the boy, as he lifted him back up into his strong arms. “There, there, Marco. Everything okay. Go back to sleep,” Buff Frog comforted, keeping his voice soft. He began walking away from the house without another thought, rocking the boy in his arms as he tried to sooth the boy back into his dreams.

With some convincing from the monster, the boy's cries died down, as his eyes closed again, and a few moments was sound asleep once again. Buff Frog did his best not to think of what had just occurred, keeping his mind focused only on getting Marco away and to somewhere safe, unaware that a pair of sharp serpent eyes had observed the whole thing and a dark presence was now slowly and silently following along behind him.

…

“And well, you know the rest, Toffee caught up to us before I able to get you to safe place. He forced me to make deal in order to keep you alive, but that meant that we now lived under Toffee's claw,” Buff Frog finished, his voice sounding broken and strained, though there was anger in his tone as he spoke of the deal, his hatred of the lizard far from over, even after his death. Though there was a bit more to it than that.

For a few moments, the entire clearing was dead silent, no one knowing what to say after hearing of the tragic event, all eyes focused on the young hooded boy. Marco's eyes were downcast, his face unreadable, a deep internal contemplation seeming to be going on within. He kept an empty gaze on the half-finished house that was now a reminder of the tragedy that had once taken place there. Beside him, Star was giving him the most comforting look she could, trying to silently reassure the boy that all was okay. If he wasn't still sitting in his father's lap, she would be holding him close to her, trying to shield him from all his troubling thoughts and protect him from the cruel truth he had been told. Instead, all she could do was watch as her boyfriend's adopted father tried to console the boy.

Jackie, taking control of the situation, turned to the others and said, “Let's give them there space, guys. Marco's got a lot to work out.”

Most of the Monsters nodded their heads in agreement, rising from the ground and heading off somewhere to think over what they had been told. Lobster Claws on the other hand, continued to sit and watch until Beard Deer grabbed him by the arm and forcefully dragged him away from the spot, growling, “That means you too.” Janna also rose, watching the three silently, her normally cryptic face filled with sympathy, but for once she didn't argue as she just followed after Jackie and the Monsters leaving the three alone.

Buff Frog watched as the clearing emptied, before returning his attention to Marco, studying him closely as he gently rubbed a hand on his back in a soothing motion, waiting for the boy to make some kind of response. But it seemed Marco had shut down completely, the hooded boy stiff in his arms and his face covered in shadows. It hurt Buff Frog to no end to see him in so much pain, but seeing the life that had drained from the boy's normally vibrant eyes was the worst of it all, Buff Frog feeling his heart shatter at the look, as his regrets consumed him. Finally, it became too much for him to bare as Buff Frog said in guilt-ridden voice, “I'm so sorry, Marco.”

Marco finally looked up at his dad, taking in the almost pleading look in the amphibian's eyes. “I part of blame for what happened.” Marco felt Buff Frog's grip around him tighten as he struggled to contain his emotions. “If I had stood up to Toffee, I could have saved parents, instead I allowed him to take position away and it cost you greatly. I often wonder how thing would have been if had just faced lizard. And then instead of saving parents, I ran away and left them to fate. I should have stayed and fought Toffee off, maybe then, I-”

Buff Frog paused, trying to gain his voice again. “Instead, I made stupid deal with him, I betrayed parents' wishes and you. It is greatest regret.”

Buff Frog didn't dare look at his son as he finished confessing his crimes, fearing the boy would hate him for all he had done. There was a long pause that was heart wrenching to Buff Frog as he awaited the child's reply, feeling torn between impatiently wanting to just get it over with and dreading when it came.

“That wasn't your fault,” Marco finally said, his voice soft. That was not the answer Buff Frog had been expecting, as he looked down at his child and was surprised to find sympathy beneath the boy's sad eyes. “Toffee's to blame for all this, not you. Toffee was crafty and manipulative and whatever he wanted he always got. Besides in the end, you did stop him and you saved me, so isn't that all that matters?”

Buff Frog felt his eyes soften, as Marco smiled up at him. Buff Frog slowly nodded his head, his voice too chocked up for words, before he pulled the boy into a tight hug, Marco finally returning the gesture. “I don't deserve good boy like you,” Buff Frog whispered, his voice cracking.

As the two pulled away, Marco finally rose off of Buff Frog's lap and Star was able to give the boy a comforting hug as well, which Marco gladly accepted. “You okay?” Star asked, unable to hide her concern.

“I will be,” Marco replied, his voice tight as he squeezed the girl tightly, a tear running down his cheek. Star felt something wet hit her shoulder and her heart clenched in sadness, but said nothing. As she pulled away from him, she studied his grief stricken face, taking in every ounce of sadness that was radiating off of him.

“If you ever need to talk about what happened, you know I'm always here for you,” she reassured and Marco gave her a halfhearted smile.

“Yeah, I know,” he said.

He turned back to his adopted father, giving him a far more cheerful smile, as the sadness began to creep away from his features. “Thanks, Buff Frog, for telling me about my parents. It was... nice to get to here about them,” Marco said, his tone far away as he became consumed by recently resurfaced memories and emotions.

“You are welcome... Marco,” Buff Frog responded, his voice stumbling as he tried to cover the word that had almost slipped. He had been about to call Marco “son” but he didn't feel the word was right to use just now, not after the boy had just discovered the truth of all that had happened to his original parents. Plus, Buff Frog still didn't feel he deserved the title, not when Rafael and Angela would have done a far better job raising their child.

“I just wish... that there was still something left of them, y'know. Something more than a house, which I am glad you're rebuilding and all, but... after all that they did for Mewni and me, it just isn't fair for there to be nothing to show for it,” Marco said, looking almost angry at the idea of his family being robbed of a legacy.

Buff Frog studied the hooded boy for a moment, seeing so much of Rafael and Angela in him that it hurt, his reaction was so reminiscent to them that Buff Frog could almost picture Angela stubbornly crossing her arms as at idea of a Monster being treated unfairly, Rafael giving them one of his shameful stares that could shatter the resolve of just about anyone. Buff Frog saw them in Marco everywhere, the shimmer in his eyes when he was happy an exact replica to Rafael's, his smile too innocent and pure to be anything but Angela's, his uncontainable curiosity, his lust for life, the way he expressed himself so honestly and openly, they were all constant reminders of his old friends. The Monster missed them both greatly, but every time he looked at his child it was like a part of them was still there.

Buff Frog smiled, before saying, “But they are not all gone.”

Marco gave him a confused, but hopeful look. “What do you mean?” he asked.

Buff Frog stood, walking over to the boy, looking down at him as he explained, “But Marco, do you really not realize, you are legacy they left behind. They live on, in you.” He pointed at the boy's heart. “As long as you live life to fullest, then nothing they did was in vain.”

Marco put a hand to his heart as he thought over what Buff Frog had said. He was all that was left of them, the only thing they had left in this world to remind anyone that they had ever existed. He was their legacy, which meant from now on it would be his duty to carry on what they had started. They had wanted peace in Mewni, but they had never gotten to see it. So at that moment, Marco silently vowed to bring equality to Mewni, a new fire driving him forward. This wasn't just about returning the kindness the Monsters had shown him, it was about preserving his families wishes and dreams. He wouldn't allow the Monsters and Mewmans to fight ever again. After all, he was a Diaz, he stood for something more than petty violence. And that gave him a new feeling of pride, knowing that his name meant something.

Marco smiled brightly, holding himself a little higher as he nodded his head, saying, “You're right. Thanks.”

Buff Frog returned the smile as he said, “You are welcome, Marco. You should be proud to be Rafael and Angela's son.”

“I am,” Marco said. Then, out of nowhere, he threw his arms around the frog in another tight hug, as he added sweetly, “And I'm proud to be your son too, dad.”

Buff Frog felt his heart skip a beat, surprised by the boy's kind words. Tears flooded his vision as he returned the hug, holding Rafael's and Angela's beloved gift and his precious child close to him, loving him enough it felt for all three of them.

Star just watched father and son hug quietly, not daring to break up the tender moment, her heart melting at the sweet display. For a split second, Marco's cheek marks changed, switching from glowing red suns into bright pink flowers before changing immediately back, but the three were so chocked up on their own emotions that not a single one of them had even noticed.

#Star vs #Star vs AU #My Writing #Light of the Sun and Stars #Starco #Buff Dad

3 notes · View notes