#look at him. he had no friends. didn't respond when people called his name. zero imitating of the adults around him.

[caterpillarinacave]

Do you have thoughts about Baby Henry and his Great Aunt Matilda?

Oh BOY do I.

I could literally go on and on forever but I should redirect you to this entire fic which is basically a coherent, carefully constructed, novel of those thoughts:

(Those with an astute eye will notice that I call Matilda Henry’s aunt, as in his fathers sister, as opposed to his great aunt. Maybe this is due to the copious amounts of inheritance fuckery brought up in the first chapter. Maybe I forgot because rereading nothing but shadows makes me sad. Maybe I can make it work and I’m going with it.) 

[wonderlandhour]

First Year Funfacts

Sebek goes quiet and peaceful in the rain, especially a good thunderstorm

Deuce knows a lot about tea and had a few custom blends that get mailed to him regularly

Ace has 3 siblings, two older brothers he calls Jack and Ocho and one younger sister named Regina. the sibling he has that no one ever really talks about his is decade older half sibling, Folly.

Sora refuses to eat most veggies cooked, stating he doesn't like them. his mom just boils them all so he doesn't like them cooked until he finds ash roasting some. his favorite veggies made by Ash are roasted brussel sprouts and sauteed asparagus.

Ash's favorite food is passion fruit in twisted wonderland. she'd never and fresh ones before but in TW it's slightly less sweet and has a naturally stronger flavor.

Sebek starts giving Sora one of his favorite apples every time they see each other and it takes Sora weeks to realize why he gets excited whenever he sees Sebek

Ash thinks it's absolutely hilarious that Sebek Pavloved Sora into liking him. this is what gets the verb form of Pavlov into TW.

Ortho is a giant parrot and likes to copy things he hears others say in the same way they said it.

he and Idia both hack into things to see who can do it faster for fun. on occasion Ortho has hacked into things for Ash. he will not do it for anyone else in their friend group.

Ace has called Jamil 'mom' and 'team mom' on more than one occasion. apparently it started with Floyd.

In a burst of anger at Azul once at club, Grim yelled at him 'you're not my dad!' Azul didn't let him forget about it for ages.

Grim only verbally admitted he considers Ash like a mom to him once, right after getting her back from her treatment at STYX. when edged on by Sebek and Ruggie, loudly states he will never see Malleus or Leona has a dad. But they're welcome to try and tempt him! (it's a ploy for fancy tuna)

Epel has also called Vil mom and finds it hilarious that Vil refuses to accept it when he responds to being referred to as mom without fail.

Jack howls sometimes to see who's where, forgetting that his friends are not wolves. however it doesn't stop them from answering. if they can hear him, Ortho, Epel, Deuce, and Sora all answer no matter what. about half the time Sebek, Ash, and Grim will answer. Ace only answers if he's by himself or no one can see him at that moment (he has the best howl out of everyone).

whenever Ash isn't in a mental position to take up leadership of their group, Ace steps up into that older sibling role seamlessly.

at the beginning of their second year, Ortho returns from summer break with a new body entirely, less robotic looking with more functions, and he looks about 14-15 in age. He's the one who designed his new body.

Ash is a minor sugar baby of the other housewardens and thoroughly enjoys it . . . with the exception of Vil and his need for her to have a giant expensive (in Ash's opinion) skin care routine (it's five things across morning and night).

Sebek once accidentally gave Ash an alcohol that's nearly indistinguishable from water that belongs to Lilia. as it turns out, ash has zero alcohol tolerance and spent the entire night as diasomnia giggling at Malleus for being pretty and looking for her faovrite people for cuddles. it ended in the biggest slumber party in NRC's history across pretty much every dorm. (she almost killed Sebek for the hangover.)

Grim can't cook for shit, he's burned water and has been banned from even attempting to cook at both Ramshackle and the main school building.

the others can tell if she went out with Malleus or Leona depending on if she comes back with beads in her hair or a new necklace. Ash cannot figure out for the life of her how they know who she's meeting up with before the date even happens though.

Epel has three piercings in his ears and one nose piercing he rarely wears since getting into NRC for minor fear of Vil giving him a lecture about them.

ear piercings for beastmen are pretty intimate because of how sensitive their ears are. Jack didn't have any before NRC, but got his first ones from Leona after his overblot. Ruggie also got his first piercings from Leona. The earrings in his ears are both a gift and a claim from the prince.

Deuce has a tongue piercing and no one finds out until the first time he and Ace kiss.

Sebek goes hard with a deep scary rumbling purr when you scratch his chin and upper neck of the scales along his back. he does not move when you do that either.

Sora is a pegsus beastman but pegasi have a lot of bird instincts compared to horses which means that the number of times he's perched on top of things and ended up scaring the shit out of people in very high. because he also goes completely quiet when he does that sometimes. Ortho almost shot him once when he scared the shit out of Idia and Ash threw a knife at him the first time he did that in the middle of the night.

one time when there was a small group of students from the Land of the Red Dragon visiting, they were highly impressed by Epel's fruit carving ability. he found of from them that the ability to peel a fruit as close to the peel as possible is seen as a test of how good of a wife a girl will be. it's also common though for parents to show their kids they care with peeled and cut fruit. it causes epel, who has a hard time saying how much people mean to him, to show it with platters of cut and peeled fruit.

if any of them need help or advice with life or relationships, they go to Ash. if any of them need history homework help, they go to Sebek. if they want math help they go to Ace. Ortho rarely ever helps them with homework since he considers it cheating since he has access to the literal internet.

Deuce knows a lot of random fun facts and spends a lot on audio books to listen to while running. he might not understand everything he listens to but he retains the information really well.

Sebek is austistic, Sora is ADHD, Deuce had both dyslexia and dyscalcula, Ash has PTSD and Depression. Ortho hallucinates things sometimes when he runs for too long without taking a sleep cycle (2.5 days. think low battery Baymax on steriods.) Grim has separation anxiety and some basic training as a therapy animal for all of them but mostly Ash. As the only 'normal' member of their group, Ace regularly complains about it but has never once turned them down when they need help.

Ace regularly forgets that Jack is also a 'normal' one because he's one of the quieter ones and doesn't talk about it. Ace will say no while actively helping you. Jack will show he cares in a softer way, solely with actions.

[gemini-magic17]

Entanglement Chapter Twelve

She left me I can't believe she left me here. Standing alone in the library contemplating what the hell just happened. How could she kiss me like that and just up and leave me without a word? I try not to let the tears spill from my eyes but they slowly start to fall down my cheeks. Banging the back of my head on the stack my mind finally went to that place it never wanted to. The reason she left was because she heard Jade and that just confirmed what I always denied. Kit cares about Jade and it is in a way that has nothing to do with being a friend.

I wiped the tears off my face while making sure it appeared that I hadn't been crying and I hurriedly left the library. My chambers were close to the library which turned out to be a godsend in this situation. Standing in front of my door with my hand on the knob I started to turn it when I suddenly heard shuffling from the other side. Carefully opening the door I peeked through it and I saw my father standing there.

"Father, is there something you need", I asked as I made my way into the room shutting the door.

"I just wanted to come see how you are. I felt like I hadn't seen you in awhile", he said.

"I'm doing well", trying to hide the dried tears that streaked my face.

"Are you sure? You look like you have been crying."

"I tripped leaving the library and I hurt myself while I tried to break the fall with my arms", I said. I prayed that the excuse I used would work but my dad wasn't someone that could be so easily fooled.

"Y/n I know when you are lying to me but I also know that when you are upset you don't want to talk about it", he said. That was one thing about him that I have always loved. No matter how angry or upset I was he was the one to give me my space when I needed it.

"I won't force you to tell me what's wrong but I need to know that you are going to be okay", he said looking into my eyes with concern present in them. I grabbed ahold of his hands and smiled.

"Don't worry I am going to be fine. What do you always say about this family", I asked. He chuckled and said, "The people in this family are strong, and that we bounce back quicker than anyone."

"That's right. I love you", I told him.

"I love you too. To the moon and back I always will", he said as he hugged me tight. He pressed a kiss on my forehead and went on his way.

I flung myself onto my bed and all of a sudden the dam broke. The tears didn't stop coming and I felt like I couldn't breathe. How could I be so stupid and let myself fall for her knowing that she could break my heart.

**Kit's POV

I think I lost her. I lost Jade forever there was no way she was going to forgive let alone trust me ever again. Not knowing what I was going to do my mind went to Y/n. God, I left her in that library with zero explanation of what had happened. I may have not liked her but she didn't deserve that nobody deserves that. I ran towards the library and busted through the door when I made it. I called her name multiple times and no answer. I looked all over that place and there was no trace of her anymore which only meant one thing. Y/n left and she didn't want to stick around for what happened after. The next logical place I could think of where she could be was in her room.

On my way there I passed her father in the corridor and we exchanged hellos. As I came up on her door I could hear crying coming from the inside. She was crying and it was because of what I did. I never meant to hurt her not like this I don't want her to cry. I knocked on the door and I heard her ask who was it. I didn't respond being too afraid she would tell me to go away before I could even speak to her. I quickly opened the door and the tears she had streaming down her face broke my heart. Before she could say anything I stepped inside, closed the door, and locked it. Y/n started screaming at me telling me to leave and that she never wanted to see me again.

"Please don't say that I'm sorry I didn't mean to leave like that", I said.

"You didn't mean to leave like that! I was standing there like an idiot after you practically tried to undress me in the library", she exclaimed.

"I know it's just that-"

"It's just that you heard Jade come in and knew that what we did was what was wrong? I like you I mean I really like you and running after her after what we did stomped on my heart. You love her just admit it", she hiccuped. I looked down at the floor and then back to her before I could say what I needed to.

"Your right I did leave to go after Jade but it is not because I love her. It's true I do care for her more than a friend should but I don't love her. I do have strong feelings for you but I have feelings for Jade too", saying this I took into consideration the words that James spoke to me. Even though I was developing some kind of feelings for Y/n my feelings for Jade were stronger than that. The threat looming over my head by her brother reminded me that I needed to tread carefully.

"You may feel something for me Kit but I know for a fact that Jade is always going to be the person you chase after and I will be the one to be left behind", she said. I knew she was right if it came down to it Jade would be the person I would choose.

"I'm sorry Y/n. I didn't want to hurt you", I said with sincerity.

"Yeah well it's a little too late for that don't you think", she said and walked towards the door to unlock it.

"I don't want to see you not right now. I can't even look at you", she said with disdain. She opened the door and told me to get out. I walked past her and right as I was going to tell her something she shut the door in my face. I mean could you blame her I hurt her in more ways than one and it wouldn't surprise me if she didn't talk to me until the wedding. I screwed everything up with Y/n and Jade turning this into a shit show. What the hell am I going to do?

**James' POV

I can hear Y/n yelling from down the corridor. I ran as fast as I could to her chambers and the yelling grew louder. I was right outside when I could hear everything she was saying and how Kit was the person my sister's anger was directed at. From what I could get Jade's name was constantly being brought up. I knew then and there that Y/n had found out about those two and was now going ballistic. The yelling went on for a few more minutes when I heard the door unlock. I quickly went down the hall and hid behind an opening.

I see Kit walk out of the room where she proceeded to have the door shut in her face. I had to hold in my laughter so she wouldn't know I was there. I could see her defeated look and as she walked away I started to form a plan for how Kit was going to pay for hurting Y/n.

[badcaseofcasey]

one single thread of gold (tied me to you) | Part 3 aka: my Steddie soulmates au, Eddie's POV Part 1 | Part 2 | Steve's POV

guess who's baaaaack? Sorry for the long wait between parts, but here's part three of Eddie's POV! I'm back to working on this fic primarily, so will hopefully have the next part sooner rather than later! As always, let me know if you'd like to be added or taken off of the taglist!

As Eddie settled into life in Hawkins, he quickly realized that the universe must be playing a practical joke; there was no way in hell that Steve Harrington was his soulmate.

His assumptions that first day at Hawkins High had proven correct: Steve was popular, painfully mainstream, and had zero time or attention for anyone outside of his circle of influence. In some ways, being so utterly ignored by his soulmate hurt worse than if he’d been outright rejected. It was a reminder every day that Eddie wasn’t even significant enough in his soulmate’s life to merit rejection.

Eddie had learned how to use his outcast status to his advantage well before he’d moved to Hawkins - how to wear the mantle of “freak” like armor. He found the other outcasts and was able to use his reputation (and the fact that he supplied weed to most of the popular kids) to protect them, too.

He carved out a section of Hawkins that was his own and made just enough space there for the people he cared about. Over time, he slowly brought more and more lost sheep into the fold, founding Hellfire Club and Corroded Coffin with people he could legitimately call his best friends. It wasn’t perfect, but it was as close as someone like Eddie could ever hope to get.

Corroded Coffin’s practices were often one of Eddie’s favorite parts of his new life in Hawkins. Gareth had started at Hawkins High Eddie’s Junior year, but he saw Eddie’s Dio patch on his first day of school and was ballsy enough to approach the older teen to ask if he played any instruments. Since then, they’d added Jeff, and Freak (who was actually also named Geoff, but happily went by Freak to avoid any confusion). They were sounding more and more like an actual band these days, and they had a standing gig at the Hideout to prove it.

Of course, sometimes the peace of shredding through whatever insane guitar solo Eddie had learned or come up with that week was shattered by one of the other guys bringing high school into the mix.

“Are you guys thinking of going to the party this weekend?” Gareth asked.

“What party?” Jeff responded. “I haven’t heard of one yet.”

“Harrington’s parents are out of town again,” Gareth said. “He’s hosting; I heard Carol Perkins talking about it during Bio.”

“Probably not,” Jeff said. “My mom’s been on my ass about homework lately - she like, actually wants me to get into college, especially since my brother got denied from everywhere except Ivy Tech.”

The rest of the band nodded sympathetically. Even Eddie had Wayne on his ass to apply to college - as if they both didn’t know he’d be repeating senior year. He had way too many absences and D’s on his transcript for them to give him a diploma this time around.

“What about you, Eddie? Are you going to be there selling?” Gareth asked. “I hear Harrington’s crowd has enough money to throw around.”

Eddie strummed loudly and let the feedback echo through the garage. “I would love it if I didn't have to hear Steve Harrington’s name during band rehearsal for once.”

Gareth looked acceptably cowed by Eddie’s response, but was clearly not going to be deterred. “Come on, guys. You’ll be graduating soon and I’m going to be stuck at Hawkin’s High with Freak and zero street cred.”

“You don’t get street cred by going to parties like that,” Eddie argued.

“Okay, maybe not - but what about girls?” Gareth challenged. “You know all the girls show up hoping to hook up with Steve and when they are inevitably disappointed, they’ll be looking for a shoulder to cry on. I could be that shoulder!”

“Don’t you ever wonder if the King Steve thing is all an act?” Freak piped up. “You hear about all these girls, but do you ever really see him dating anyone? For all we know,  he and Hagan could be hooking up behind closed doors. The way they act around each other, I wouldn’t be surprised if they were the ones who were soulmates, not Tommy and Carol.”

Eddie whirled around to glare at Freak. “What are you even saying right now?”

“I’m just saying that all that bravado is there for a reason,” he said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he was trying to cover up something.”

To this day, Eddie isn’t sure what made him do it. Maybe all the talk about Steve’s words and his sex life had gone straight to his head and stopped him from thinking straight. Maybe he’d been waiting for an excuse to do it and it seemed like as good a time as any. Or maybe, Eddie desperately needed a distraction to a different topic.

Whatever it was that made him do it, Eddie found himself saying, “Would it be so disgusting if he did get his words from a guy? Pretty ironic to be a homophobe as a guy named Freak, huh?” His tone of voice made it absolutely clear which side Eddie found himself on.

“Woah,” Freak said, holding up his hands defensively. “I didn’t mean it like that.”

“Really?” Eddie said. “What did you mean it like? The only reason it’d be big news if Harrington was a queer is if you have some sort of problem with it.”

“C’mon, Eddie,” Jeff said, always the peacemaker, “you know it’d be a big deal if the ladies man of Hawkins High was actually into dudes. Freak didn’t mean it like that.”

Eddie took a deep breath and blew it out forcefully. “Sorry. I got defensive.”

“No worries, man,” Freak said. “But you know I don’t have problems with people like that. Us freaks have to stick together.”

Eddie huffed out a laugh and accepted Freak’s handshake as everyone went back to their instruments. Luckily, his little outburst seemed to at least have gotten them off the topic of Steve Harrington. They messed around with a few cover songs and even got an original song or two started before Jeff had to leave to go work on homework.

As Eddie was packing up, Gareth came over, trying to come across as nonchalant but missing it by a mile.

“You know, we’d all be cool with it if… if you got your words from a guy,” Gareth said quietly.

Eddie snapped his guitar case shut and turned to look at Gareth. “Yeah, man. I know. Thanks for saying it, though.”

“Imagine if Steve Harrington was the person you got your words from though,” Gareth said. “That would be hilarious.”

Eddie just huffed out a laugh, trying not to give anything away.

Unfortunately, Gareth knew him too well.

“That would be hilarious, right?” Gareth asked, skeptical.

Eddie looked at him and raised his eyebrows, mouth stretched into a grimace.

“Oh no,” Gareth said. “No way, man.”

“Trust me, I’m just as disappointed as you are.”

“No, I mean - I’m gonna have to put up with you falling for Steve Harrington one of these days - if it hasn’t happened already - oh god, tell me it hasn’t happened already.”

“As if,” Eddie said, rolling his eyes.

“Oh good, I still have time,” Gareth said, theatrically relieved. “I need to enjoy my Harrington-free life while I’ve still got it.”

“Fuck you,” Eddie said fondly, shoving Gareth just hard enough for him to lose his balance.

As they walked out to the car, still laughing at each other’s ridiculous behavior, Eddie couldn't help but feel a little lighter. He might not have the same faith as Gareth that he and Steve would ever end up together, but it was nice to know he’d always have friends like this by his side.

taglist: @awkwardgravity1 @infinitetrashbag @vampireinthesun @swimmingbirdrunningrock @maya-custodios-dionach @thev01dd @obsessivlyme @a-little-unsteddie @anything-thats-rock-and-roll @spectrum-spectre @red-panderz69 @magpiemuseum @minjintea @finalmoondragonn @thatonebadideapanda @estrellami-1 @freyaforestafay @biatcgh @sadcanadianwinter @im-sam-fucking-winchester @bidisastersworld @justanothergirlwithobsessions @anaibis @thing-a-ling @rosered93 @newtstabber @void-o-chaos @thegingerrapunzel @baron-zemo-trash @katireads @child-of-cthulhu @the-s-is-silent @i-must-potato @hellomynameismoo @lovelylilbadone @theotalksalot @lydi-cyan @background-noise-headache @idontgetpaidenoughforthisshit @slitherynchiken @grapefruitgalaxy @bookbinderbitch @luthienstormblessed @blues-tunes @murdblurdock @grtwdsmwhr @xpaperheartso @anaibis @thedyingwriter

[xivanxiety]

My 3rd FC (Approx March 2021-August 2021)

So around December 2020, I started throwing the bait out on finding new people to RP with in hopes I'd finally find the type of RP I was always seeking. I knew it was out there, I just needed to find the right people. I started by perusing people's carrds. I stumbled across one individual with a really clever page. It was designed to look like an old school Final Fantasy game. They even had a matching FC page. Based on the carrd design alone, I reached out to this person and commended them on their carrd design. They corrected me and informed me it wasn't a carrd template, they made it all by themselves. We got to talking and I asked about potentially RP. He seemed to really take a liking to my character and said he was excited for them to meet. I should've seen this as a red flag but he even went on to say "Who knows, maybe she'll even meet her future husband." I chose not to respond to that. He informed me that we wouldn't be able to for a time because he was busy working on his FC and had the holidays coming up. We spoke pretty frequently from that point on for a very short period of time, though by the end of December, he'd stopped responding to my messages. Lets call this guy Greed.

Then in early February I stumbled upon another cleverly designed carrd for a very charismatic looking character, this was Old Man's character. I immediately sent him a message, and luckily, he was just as enthused to RP with me. This time, this guy was more on top of things. He was ready to get things rolling. That was when I got a DM from Greed, "How come you're RPing with Old Man and not me???" It seemed to be in jest, at the time. Turns out Old Man and Greed were in the same FC. I did not realize this as I'd never taken an extensive look and Old Man was listed on the carrd as a different character. This interaction seemed to push Greed into talking to me again. However, he seemed to not take too kindly to Old Man and I RPing. One day he DM'd me asked what I was up to, I told him I had some RP planned. It appears he already knew I had RP planned with Old Man, however, he took up an issue with the fact that I didn't disclose who it was that I was RPing with. He appeared to also talk to Old Man about this concern, seemingly implying it was suspicious that I wasn't telling Greed exactly who I was RPing with, as if I was trying to hide something. Both of them brought this up to me, Greed far more aggressive and suspicious than Old Man. "You know that Old Man and I are in the same FC, did you think we wouldn't talk about it?" Old Man posed me the same question, why hide it? I explained to both of them that I wasn't trying to hide anything, there wasn't anything to hide, that's just how I always talk about people. I don't immediately go into details and disclose names. Old Man seemed to understand, but Greed seemed a little hesitant.

Fast forward about a month or so. Old Man and I have been RPing regularly, meanwhile, Greed has flaked on me twice. Old Man and my character's seem to click instantly and have a fun dynamic. We decided to go into a slow burn romance with our characters, meaning we were in essence RP partners, but our characters were a romance work in progress. And by me officially becoming Old Man's RP partner, he asked if I wanted to join his FC as well to get to know all of his and his character's friends. I happily agreed, but still, that anxiety regarding FCs lingered. Ironically, one of the officers of the FC, Lizzy, told me that they have zero bullshit tolerance, so if ever anyone gave me a problem, to let her know. And guess who the leader of the FC was? It was Greed. Things did not go so well right from the get go, coincidentally as Old Man and I entered our RP partnership, the day after, Greed sent me a DM saying that he no longer wished to write or associate with me because he did not wish to write with people who did not put forth any effort into their writing. I didn't know where the hell this came from, we'd never even written together before! But a panic began to swell inside of me. I knew he'd probably turn to Old Man, so I immediately went to him to tell him what had happened and what was said. Old Man offered to talk to Greed for me, because he really wanted to write with me and he really wanted me to be a part of the group. After some time, Greed spoke to me again stating he still didn't want to write with me, but for the sake of the FC, he'd tolerate my presence and would only interact with me in group settings. However, Greed seemed to eventually get over his qualms with me.

The next month, he'd entered his own RP partnership with a girl we will call Magenta. This struck me as odd because upon entering the FC and tagging along on group RPs, it appeared as though Greed's character was quite close to Lizzy's character to the point I could've sworn there was something going on between the two. Coincidentally, Lizzy appeared to have become upset over an RP suddenly coming to an end, an RP she'd spent months building up. It wasn't confirmed, but I do believe I'd connected some dots here.

Greed's attitude regarding me was quite the rollercoaster. It didn't take long for him to warm up to me again and even express interest in writing with me. However, he was always quick to flip the narrative and make me out to be a bad person. ie. he proposed that we do an RP where my character hires his as a bodyguard. Okay, cool, I can work with that. But the only time our schedules synced up even remotely was the weekends, so I asked him if he was free at all on the weekend so we could do our RP. He proceeded to say "You know weekends are my time with Magenta, so I don't know why you would be asking me. What exactly are you trying to do?" As if he was once again implying that I was up to no good by asking him to RP with me on the weekend. To me, it seemed like he was trying to paint a narrative where I was trying to step between him and Magenta. I wasn't! Were they honestly RPing all weekend long? I couldn't even get in an hour or two?

Then in the flip of a switch, he changed. After an FC event one evening, he sat in Gridania with me just chatting. I don't know how we got there, but there we were, just shooting the shit. Things escalated quickly from there. He confessed to me that he had been such a prick to me because he was jealous, he had been hoping I'd choose his character to be my character's partner, and along the way he realized it wasn't just my character, it was also me he had a thing for. He tried to ask me out on a date. I told him he hardly knew me, he should take some time to get to know me. I wanted us to be on good terms for the sake of everyone else in the FC, and I feared straight up rejecting him would backfire tremendously and he'd once again give everyone this false story, likely claiming I came onto him, and he rejected me. So I just rolled with it as we started hanging out more. I was a bit worried this meant he was hanging out with Magenta less, because I definitely wasn't trying to steal her RP partner from her, I kind of still had Old Man who was at this point struggling with burn out and would inevitably call off our writing partnerships as he took a break from the game. As our partnership came to a close, I was honestly burned out on the prospects of RP partnerships and writing romance and the amount of RP fuckbois I'd have to sift through. Luckily for me, this would be short lived. I'd say it was about 3 weeks of Greed being up my ass, constantly trying to sucker me into going on a date with him, feigning care and concern for me and even starting to call me pet names. When at another flip of a switch, seemingly out of nowhere, he decided to inform me he was no longer interested in me, no longer wished to pursue me, and asked if we could just be friends. Uh, yes? We weren't even dating to begin with?

I was glad to see it hadn't taken a toll on his RP partnership as his and Magenta's characters had recently gotten engaged, so at least I got out of that stage with minimal damage. The group noticed was that he'd started hanging out with another girl from the FC, Kimiko. Kimiko was Old Man's ex RP partner who he'd brought into the FC in hopes of helping her make more friends. She'd quickly entered another RP partnership with another member of the FC that I'll call The Janitor, who'd coincidentally noticed that Kimiko had become withdrawn and lacking enthusiasm for their roleplays as of late. It turns out that the two, Kimiko and Greed, had made alts together and had started RPing on said alts in secret. It was then revealed that the two had started dating OOC as well. Greed began engaging less and less with the FC and became a straight up asshole to me in DMs. And Kimiko only showed up to FC events if Greed was there as well. Meanwhile, Greed's tone with me had completely shifted yet again. He was rather cold toward me in private. The last time I spoke to him, I blatantly asked him if he had a problem with me. He said yes, because from what he had observed, all I ever did in the FC discord was talk about myself and never engaged with anyone, which is funny because that's exactly what he was guilty of. Not me. What is with FC leaders trying to gaslight me?

This was when my gut instincts began to kick in and the puzzle pieces began to fall into place. I started asking potentially involved individuals to see if my theories were correct. From a few conversations, this is the timeline I gathered:

December 2020:

When talking to Greed and looking at his carrd, I noticed a screenshot of his character with a girl. I asked if that was his partner, and he said no, she's just a childhood friend of his. This character belonged to Mia. Mia was Greed's RP partner he'd brought to XIV from Second Life. Apparently he RP'd on both platforms but decided to move to XIV full time and convinced her to join him. So while Greed was making jokes about my character possibly meeting her future husband, he was already in an RP partnership. According to Mia, Greed had told her that I had been barking up his tree trying to steal him from her. But then after meeting me, she knew there was no way that was true.

January 2021:

Greed called things off with Mia, but not for me. He actually left her to enter an RP partnership with Lizzy, the same officer who told me to come to her should I have any issues. He'd apparently already started building things up with his and Lizzy's characters storyline before he even ended things with Mia. Mia told me that he'd told her he needed to find a character who aligned better with his character's story. From a storywriting standpoint, I can kind of understand that, but this guy is clearly a serial monogamist when it comes to RP romance.

March 2021:

He then abruptly brought things to an end with Lizzy when he decided to enter an RP partnership with Magenta. This man had the audacity to be acting like a petty, jealous child this whole time in the span of 3 RP partnerships over my character and tried to convince Old Man that I was suspicious?

Back to the present.

I decided to reach out to Lizzy. Unfortunately, she initially did not take it well. She asked me what I expected her to do, since Greed was her friend. Whatever was going on between me and Greed should stay between the two of us. I could feel the anxiety rising inside me again. She was on his side, not mine. Not that I was expecting her to choose a side, I just wanted her to take note that there was a potential shitstorm coming and I strongly felt it would be a result of Greed's actions.

And then it came.

One morning, Magenta woke to a message from Greed stating that he wished to end the RP partnership. Others would wake to find that Magenta had left the FC discord, thus sparking concern. The Janitor also woke to a message from Kimiko saying that their characters needed to talk. The group did not approve of this relationship and how it was impacting the FC. Kimiko was poly, Greed was not, so surely this would not end well. Both he and Kimiko abruptly ended their RP partnerships to write with each other. Of course, Greed cited other reasons for ending it with Magenta which I feel was just another attempt at manipulating others to make them look bad when it was absolutely unnecessary. I understand wanting to only RP romance with your OOC character, but why not just say that? "First of all, I want to say I'm sorry, but now that I am in a relationship, I feel I need to be able to dedicate more time to my partner. So I feel it may be a bit inappropriate to be dedicating so much time RPing romance with someone else when I could be sharing this time with my partner who also wishes to RP with me. I hope you understand. I'd still like to be friends." See? Easy. Instead, Greed told Magenta and some others that Magenta was being clingy and exhausting, and treated him like he was her boyfriend (when Magenta claims it was the other way around conveniently until he started hanging out with Kimiko). About a month went by and the group could sense an impending doom on the FC, and so, they decided to invite all of the girls who Greed had victimized to their friend group server. Lizzy was already in this friend group server, but they proceeded to add me, Mia, and Magenta. Greed, who was a member of this friend group server as well, saw who'd just joined the server and immediately left, further confirming our suspicions. Around this time is also Lizzy pulled me, The Janitor, and Old Man into a private chat. My nerves were shot, worried I was going to be confronted as one of the shit stirrers, but no, I was greeted with an apology for not heeding my warning about Greed. She let the group vent their thoughts and feelings. She was long time friends with Greed and now an ex RP partner of his, The Janitor was also a friend of his and Kimiko's now ex RP partner, and Old Man was also a friend of Greed and probably the second closest friend Kimiko had in the FC.

Old Man and The Janitor decided they were going to try to reason with Kimiko. They were certain Greed was just going to do the same thing to her as he did the other girls, except this time it would be worse, this time the relationship was OOC. But it was too late. Greed had manipulated Kimiko into believing that he was the victim. Apparently Magenta had also reached out to Kimiko as they had also become good friends up until the point Kimiko started dating Greed. Kimiko repeated everything that was said to Greed. Where upon hearing what had been said, he basically imploded the FC. He deleted the FC discord server and removed everyone from the FC except for him and Kimiko. Both continued to play the victims. And I guess from Kimiko's perspective, that makes sense. But when you have a whole group of friends you've known longer than the guy you're dating telling you this won't end well, he has a history of being a serial monogamist, has lied about other people in order to make them the bad guy, and could potentially behave that way OOC as well, wouldn't you consider it even a little? I don't want to know the things he told her. I was told Kimiko was already not terribly fond of me since I was Old Man's next RP partner after having ended his partnership with her. Then she meets a guy claiming to have had a nasty history with me as well? I wasn't so quick to pity her. She was a grown woman in her 30s getting all wrapped up in a guy like a high schooler with her first boyfriend.

Their relationship lasted a bit longer than everyone anticipated, but it ended just how we expected. Apparently he met someone new and quickly broke things off with Kimiko.

I never understood why Greed had such beef with me amongst all of the other girls. I think it may be because I never expressed interest in our characters being a thing. It was a form of rejection, especially when he saw that I entered an RP partnership with Old Man when he'd met me first. Multiple people have told me that he would frequently gripe about me in DMs, making it painfully obvious he was jealous.

The FC never recovered, no one wanted to step up and reform the FC and I think the drama contributed to burn out for some folks. The friend group server is still active, though, and they still do things together. I remained friends with everyone, but it was time to move onto the next chapter.

[rebeccccccaaa]

ʜᴏʟᴅ ᴀ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀ ᴄʟᴏsᴇ

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ғʀᴀᴛ ʙᴏʏ!sᴛᴇᴠᴇ ʀᴏɢᴇʀs x ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

sᴜᴍᴍᴀʀʏ: you and steve hooked up once and neither of you can forget that night

ᴡᴀʀɴɪɴɢs: smut 18+ minors dni plz, kinda rough? but of course major fluffy aftercare from soft boi stevie, bit of inexperienced reader and insecure reader

(accidentally written unprotected sex but this is fanfiction lmao plz be safe irl)

ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ’s ɴᴏᴛᴇs: ive never participated in a challenge before and i think @honeysucklesteve is just the sweetest so hope you like it el! And congrats on 4k :T

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“And the interesting thing about that, mind I add…” the words of your professor falling short because you can’t shake the feeling of his eyes looking at you.

You kept your head low fighting the urge within you not to look back. A couple nights ago you landed yourself in the bed of the infamous frat president Steve Rogers and to make matters worse, you both major in American Studies meaning you share all of your classes.

You didn’t have much experience with guys in high school so it wasn’t surprising when you had the same experience in college. What was surprising was the fact you spent a night in the arms of one of the most handsome men you’ve ever laid your eyes on. Steve Rogers was a huge catch. Teachers loved him, girls chased him,and guys wanted to be him.

You remember that night so vividly.

The way his hands fit so perfectly on your hips. The way his lips felt so hot against your own burning skin; and moved perfectly against yours. The things he whispered in your ear. They way he held you close when you fell asleep in his arms. The way you hated yourself the next morning when you snuck out. The way your tummy flutters simply because he’s looking at you right now.

You breathed out shakily before turning your head to find his eyes with yours; he looked away the moment you did shyly, very unlike him. Fuck he was gonna be the death of you.

“And that should be the end of the lecture. I’m gonna go ahead let you guys go a little early. Have a good weekend everyone and make sure to check your emails,” the professor gathered his things and left.

You packed your things quickly trying your best to avoid his gaze that you knew was still on you. Steve packed quickly too before walking hot on your tail, just about to call your name until…

“Hey, Y/n,” Bucky called out.

“Oh, hey Buck.”

“It’s the weekend and as usual the guys and I want to party tonight. But the dean said one more noise complaint about our house and we get on academic probation so we’re asking a couple of people who might wanna come to the club with us.”

Behind Bucky you could see Steve walking towards you two and your stomach sank. Bucky and Steve were best friends and you don’t know if Steve told him that you guys slept together last weekend. What if something happens again tonight if you say yes. Why are you even thinking that something could happen again? Steve Rogers is way out of your league it was a miracle that you landed a chance to be his bed warmer in the first place.

“I’ll see you for lunch, man,” Steve said to Bucky patting his best friend's shoulders. His eyes lingering with yours until you had to pull away.

“I don’t think I should,” you told him, walking towards the door.

“Come on, Nat told me you're quite the party animal and you left early last week I didn’t get to see you in action,” Bucky chuckled, walking with you. You didn’t leave early…

“Buck,” you looked at him.

“Please?” he asked. You exhaled sharply rolling your eyes before walking away to your next class.

“Is that a yes?” he shouted, making you turn around with a cheeky grin. You got to your next class and noticed Steve sitting in a new seat today, particularly the one next to the seat you usually sit in. None of his housemates or regular friends took this specific lecture so he usually sat in the very back corner alone. But today here he is.

His head snapped up when you entered the room. You hesitantly sat down next to him still avoiding his eyes. You set up your laptop on the small table as did Steve; both your eyes glancing at each other quite awkwardly until Steve finally interrupts the silence.

“You coming tonight?” he whispered.

“What’s in it for me if I do?” you said playfully.

“A repeat of the best night you’ve ever had,” he said cheekily.

“Oh, really,” you chuckled sarcastically as he nodded with an overly proud smirk.

“Probably not,” you answer his question.

“Seriously? Why not? I can pick you up,” he said.

“Steve,” you warned.

“What? Afraid you won’t be able to resist me?”

“You’re so full of it,” you said, making you both laugh.

“You were full of my dick last week,” he whispered.

“Steve!” you punched his side making him laugh hard enough for other students to take notice of your ruckus.

“Welcome class, we’ll begin the lecture in one minute. I’m just gonna pull it up on the projector,” the professor said rushing in.

“Please come tonight,” he whispered.

“Why are you obsessed with me?” you joked.

“Fuck off,” he chuckled.

“If I say ok, will you shut up for the rest of the lecture?”

“Maybe,” he grinned.

“Then maybe I’ll come,” you smirked.

Throughout the lecture Steve paid absolutely no attention whatsoever. Steve had been thinking about that night just as much as you had. The way your neck craned to the side a bit, reminding him of when he littered marks and bruises all over last week. The way you subtly bit your lip in concentration but all that clouded his mind was lust remembering how you looked so pretty from above when he was settled between your legs.

He wanted you again so badly. He wasn't going to lie, it sort of hurt him when he woke up and you weren't there. He thought maybe there was something between you two, god knows the tension was overwhelming that night. You weren't the most frisky woman he'd been with but you were sweet; slight innocence with your intimacy. He craved you.

Steve leaned towards you, his fingers twiddling with yours. You tried your best to ignore his advances despite how much you equally craved him. He ran his nose along your cheek and jaw and your breathing quickened inhumanly.

"What are you doing?" you whispered.

"Nothing, just relax," he responded. As much as he wanted to drag you out of class and fuck you so good, he knew you'd rip him a new one if he did. No matter how he'd make you feel.

"No, we're in the middle of a lecture," you argued.

"I'm not doing anything," he said humorously, you were not humored though.

"Steve," you scolded when he pressed a faint kiss under your ear.

You knew a guy like Steve was horny practically twenty-four seven, but you didn't take him to be quite clingy. Especially with someone like you. His arm wrapped under yours. His other resting on your thigh. His head tucked in the crook of your neck. It wasn't particularly sexual, but it was intimate. Something normal to couples, and you two were not a couple.

"Please come tonight," he whispered, “If not I’ll come over.”

"Ugh fine," you grunted, your voice breaking into a giggle because you did somewhat enjoy this unfamiliar attention.

Steve continued to sit next to you during the rest of your classes for the day absent mindedly teasing you, playing with your fingers, twirling your hair between his fingers, leaning his head on your shoulder while he held your hand. Like geez, take a girl out already.

By the time you got back to your shared apartment with two of your closest friends you felt conflicted. Why the sudden shift in Steve? You two weren't exactly best friends before, just two people who shared classes and accidentally slept with each during a drunken night at a frat party.

"Hey, everything ok?" Wanda asked you noticing your inner battle.

"Uh, yeah. Kinda. No," you said defeatedly making the girls chuckle.

"What happened?" Nat asked.

"That guy, that I… you know."

"Fucked?"

"Nat!" you said embarrassed.

"Go on," Wanda encouraged.

"Well, I never told you guys but the guy was Steve," you said shyly.

"What!" the girls exclaimed simultaneously.

"You're lying," Nat laughed.

"You really went from zero to a hundred," Wanda giggled.

"Guys stop," you whined.

"All day today, he's been like super clingy. Holding my hand and pretending he's like my boyfriend."

"Wait, I thought you liked him?" Nat asked, confused.

"I mean I do, but it's sudden and I'm pretty sure it's only because he wants to get in my pants again, you know?" you rationed.

"Awe, I don't think that's true. I've known Steve for a bit and yeah he sleeps around sometimes but he's not a giant dick. Doing that would be way too shallow, especially for Steve," Nat said.

“Yeah but don’t you think it’s weird?” you asked.

“Look did Bucky ask you about tonight?” Nat asked.

“Yeah, he did- how do you know that?” you asked, confused.

“Oh- Uh,” Nat paused.

“She asked Buck to invite you,” Wanda snickered.

“Why?” you asked.

“Well, you never go out with us and the last time you did we thought you just went home but apparently you were getting laid,” Nat cackled.

“Oh my- shut up,” you huffed before storming off to your room.

“Wait! Can you at least come with us tonight?” Wanda followed you.

“No,” you giggled.

“Please!” both girls said at the same time. As you closed your door with a grin on your face not responding.

Hours later you laid on your bed lowly listening to the soft rumbling chaos from your comedic roommates. You stayed in your not so sexy undergarments and not so sexy sweatpants along with a hoodie you stole from your brother before you moved.

You ate the junk you’ve stocked up on the past few weeks feeling a bit glum. It’s not that you didn’t necessarily want to go, you would love to spend another night in that gorgeous man’s arms but there’s absolutely no way Steve is gonna want you the way you’d like him too. Not sober.

There was a subtle knock on your door and you called out knowing the girls were probably ready to leave.

"How do we look?" Nat asked, walking into your room with Wanda.

"Wow, you guys look hot," you said sitting up.

"You think Vis would like this or is it too much?" Wanda asked sheepishly, she's had a crush on the foreign exchange student Vis for the longest time and had yet to make a move.

"I think someone's gonna have a lucky night," you wiggled your brows suggestively, making her roll her eyes and blush.

"What about you, still chasing Bryce?" you turned to Nat looked extra sexy tonight.

"His name is Bruce," she rolled her eyes.

"And yes, I am," she chuckled.

"You're so weird," you giggled, Bruce didn't seem to particularly be Nat's type but hey, no judgement.

"I heard he's got like a monster cock," you said.

"Shut up," she pushed you playfully.

“It’s always the nerds,” Wanda giggled.

"Anyways, are you sure you don't want to come?" Wanda asked sincerely.

"I'm sure," you smiled.

"Steve's gonna miss you," Nat teased.

"Yeah, I doubt that."

"Well, stay safe, cutie," the girls waved heading to the Uber that waited outside for them.

"You too!"

You sighed before grabbing more snacks to stuff your face with. A couple hours went by of sitting around watching nonsense on TV for a bit. You ate dinner that was far from fine dining but it was available before slouching on your bed until the late hours of the night.

You were practically falling asleep, tired and dry eyes glued to the screen of your small TV when you got a knock at the front door. You check the clock by your bed wondering if maybe either of the girls left their keys, but it wasn’t even midnight yet.

You clutched your phone walking hastily to the front door as quietly as possible creeping up to the peehole to see who would be your unexpected guest.

“What the hell are you doing here?” you swung the door open.

“What the hell are you wearing?” Steve retorted.

“My jamas,” you rolled eyes stepping to side to let him in.

“Seriously what are you doing here?”

“I told you earlier, you didn’t come tonight so I came to you,” he said, taking his jacket off.

“Seriously?” you tried not to smile, but the action gave you butterflies.

“You promised to come. I missed you,” he said walking up to you.

“You’re so full of shit,” you giggled, staring at his devilishly handsome grin.

“Come on, whatcha doing?” he said, grabbing your hand and taking you to the room. You three had a fairly small apartment and your light was obviously the only one on in the whole apartment making it easy for him.

“Well, before you rudely invaded my home, I was stuffing my face with all kinds of junk watching TV,” you said to him making him scowl playfully at you.

“Well, then let’s finish the rest of your junk food then,” he said laying on your bed. You still couldn’t wrap your head around the sudden shift in attention. Steve was a guy who could have anyone and he’s chasing you for some reason.

You weren’t a blonde bombshell with a perfect hourglass figure that made guys want you left and right. You had flaws that drew people away and you don’t think Steve remembers that night like you do. What if he hates your body? What if he thinks you're annoying and suddenly leaves?

“Everything alright?” Steve asked you.

“Uh, sorta,” you answered honestly.

“Come here, talk to me,” he said, opening his arms. You couldn't help your eyes narrowing at him.

“What?”

“Do you even remember anything from that night?” you whispered.

“Where’s this coming from?” he asked.

“Steve, come on,” you chuckled.

“What?”

“Do you just wanna fuck now? Make it quick so you can go back to the party-”

“Woah, who said anything about fucking?” he stood up towering over you making you suddenly feel really small and shy.

“I mean that’s why you’re here, right?”

“I came because I told you if you didn't go out with us that I was gonna hang with you. I didn’t say anything about sleeping with you. If you really want I can go home but I wanted to hang out with you,” he said sincerely.

“Oh, I- uh,” you stuttered; well now you feel like a dick.

“We can just sit and keep watching TV until you want to go to sleep and I can head out,” he said, sitting back down on your bed. You sat beside him carefully watching his movements. He kept his eyes trained on the TV for a bit before locking his eyes with yours. You turned away quickly hearing him chuckle before sudden movement escalated behind.

Steve grabbed you from behind gently and leaned back so you laid on his chest. You could feel the hard plains of muscles on your back. And the way his strong wrapped perfectly around your waist, it felt heavenly.

Steve’s jaw tightened from the hypnotizing scent of your shampoo. He remembered it from that night not long ago and he couldn’t get it out of his head.

He wasn't going to lie, since that night all he could think about was how smooth your skin was under his fingertips. How pretty you sounded when he was settled between your legs. How good it felt when your fingers carded through his hair. He wanted you so bad.

He wanted to wake you up between your thighs again. Ravish you once more before breakfast, hell eat you for breakfast. But when you weren't there sleeping as peacefully beside him like the night before, his heart tugged. Did he say something wrong? Did he do something wrong? What if he hurt you?

He gave you space, clearly evident you hadn't wanted to talk to him but those few days went by and the same lingering stares and shy glances came back again and he craved you in his arms again.

When Nat asked him and Bucky to invite you again out to party, he really wanted to be with you that night even if you didn't end the night naked in each other's arms, just being around you was enough for him. Fortunately here he is with you, with arms wrapped around your waist and Steve couldn’t be happier.

You looked so fucking adorable to wearing sweats and a hoodie; he wishes it was one of his own. You had fluffy socks on too that had dog faces on them and he swears his heart melted. What you two were watching was making you laugh and each chuckle or giggle that came from you was like music to his ears.

He couldn’t help himself when his lips pressed against the top of your head. Your body momentarily froze before relaxing again in his arms. Your arms laid over his and tightened so you could cuddle into him even more. Your eyes felt heavy and the feeling of Steve’s lips slowly reaching your neck didn’t help you want to sleep.

When his cool lips grazed your burning skin, you could feel your skin burst into chills. You practically shuddered in his arms and your face grew hot when you did. It all becomes suddenly overwhelming and you jump off on his lap turning to him with a distressed expression.

“What happened? Did I do something wrong?” Steve said worriedly.

“You did just want to sleep with me,” you mumbled tears forming in your eyes.

“What! No, that’s not it,” he panicked; using you was the last thing he wanted you to think he was doing, and wanted in general.

“Then what’s going with you? Ever since we fucked you’re suddenly attached to me, putting your hands all over me, pretending like you're my boyfriend! And I don’t understand why,” you said frustrated.

“I feel like your just using me or something-”

“That is the last thing I want,” he interrupted, his voice low.

“Then why are you doing this; Steve you could have anybody and for some fucking sick reason you keeping mocking me. Making me think I have a chance.”

“And you don’t think you do?” he asked, heart broken, making you scoff and turn away.

“Look, fine I’ll admit that maybe before that night I wouldn’t have made a move; but I’m gonna admit that I haven’t not felt something for you before,” he said, getting closer to you.

“What?”

“I haven’t been able to stop thinking about you since we met. And that night didn’t do shit to help me get over you,” he chuckled.

You crawled to him carefully looking into his eyes for any sign that he was being untruthful; you cupped his face gently.

“Are you drunk?” you whispered.

“Not one bit.”

You pressed your lips to his feverishly and Steve nearly moaned at the feeling. His hands grasped your waist firmly pulling you to sit comfortably on his lap. His hands crept under your hoodie holding you close.

Your hands rested on his broad shoulders holding yourself up as slowly leaned back onto your pillows. Your cold hands cupped his face as you deepened the kiss and his hand went to rest on your bottom.

With this new found position, his chest pressed against yours, his hips grinded up allowing you to feel all of him. Every pushing second you grew needier and whiny, practically clawing at his shirt to feel his skin.

"So needy already. And I've hardly touched you," he chuckled lowly in your ear.

He sat up nonetheless and stripped his shirt revealing his gorgeous physique that kept you up at night and infiltrated your dirtiest dreams. You brushed your hands all over his chest with your bottom lip between your teeth; Steve smirking slightly proud of the effect he had on you simply by having his shirt off.

"Come on, pretty girl. I wanna see you too," he's whispered before kissing you softly.

"Wait, I don't…" you didn't particularly feel very sexy and instantly became insecure about your body compared to Steve's.

"It's ok, we can cuddle," he smiled.

"Well, if I'm being honest I do want you. It's just, I just ate all this junk food and I'm not wearing anything sexy. I didn't shave and-"

"Hey, I don't care. You don't need to impress me or wear anything special for me. I just want you to look pretty sitting on my face and make pretty sounds telling me how I'm gonna make you feel."

Your body trembled at his words, arousal instantly flooding from you. His nose brushed against your cheek dragging along to your jawline before pressing kisses gingerly to your jaw and neck. His hands slowly lifted your hoodie and you raised your hands letting him remove your hoodie.

Your shoulders caved in out of habit, being topless in front of handsome men wasn't normally on your schedule; but the look in Steve's eyes, the look on his face holding a hungry and adorning expression made you more comfortable, reaching out to cup his face kissing him deeply.

You sighed breathlessly into the kiss as Steve's hands rubbed your sides. You pulled away momentarily only to put your lips on Steve's neck. Steve felt himself growing harder and needier to see you, feel you, pleasure you.

"Pretty girl, I need you. Lemme taste you, please," he whined.

He picked you up and laid down on your back to pull your sweatpants down your legs. You lifted your hips for him and he smiled cheekily at you biting his lip. Steve lifted your leg kissing the inside of your calf staring at with those hungry eyes.

"I still wanna see you sitting on my face, pretty girl," Steve said, pulling to him.

"Are you sure? I don't wanna crush you or anything," you whispered, making Steve chuckle.

Steve laid down assuring you that he wanted this and grabbed your hand helping you straddle his face. When you did Steve kissed the inside of your thighs playfully nipping and marking the sensitive skin making you gasp.

Steve wrapped his hands around your thighs bringing your center impossibly close to him, finally licking a long and wet stripe up your slit. Your moans were soft at first but when Steve started circling his tongue around your clit, you could help getting louder and bucking your hips grinding on his face.

Steve’s eyes were close relishing in your sex. You combed your fingers through his hair and Steve moaned loudly against your pussy. He dipped his tongue past your folds and that along with the vibrations from his beautiful moans, you head threw back moaning in pure ecstasy, moaning so loud your neighbors were definitely going to file a complaint.

“Fuck, Steve. Your mouth feels so good; shit!” you whined.

His tongue circled your clit again quicker this time and you bucked your hips, tightening your stomach and squeezing your legs as you approached your high. Steve kneaded the soft flesh of your ass lapping up everything you gave him.

Steve crawled from under you as you held onto the headboard, still standing on your knees, trying to catch your breath. Steve came up behind you rubbing your hips softly, kissing the back of your neck softly. He quickly rid the remaining of his clothes he still wore, his painfully hard cock slapping against his stomach desperate for some sort of attention.

You breathe softly, hyper focused on the cum that slipped down your inner thighs. Your legs lightly trembled from just his mouth you couldn’t wait to feel what his cock would feel like, filling you up like it was only a week ago. Steve sat beside you looking at you with a soft smile on his face, his hand softly rubbing the back of your legs and your bottom too.

He reached around to grab your hip and slowly turned you around settling you between his legs; your back pressed against his chest as it was only moments before, more innocently than now. His lips sucked and kissed your neck as his hands cupped and kneaded the soft flesh of your breasts.

Your hands rested over his own and your hips squirmed a bit for eagerness. The low growl from Steve because your hips grinded against his cock was incredibly arousing.

“Such an eager little slut ain't cha’,” he grabbed your hair.

“Fuck,” you mumbled as he pushed you forward on your hands and knees.

“Want me to fuck you? Remind you how I felt buried so fucking deep inside you? God, I think about you every fucking night; how perfect you were wrapped around me, how beautiful you sounded underneath me,” he whispered huskily in your ear making you shudder.

“Stevie, please,” you whimpered.

His hands rubbed up and down your back as he chuckled darkly.

“Oh, I’ve been waiting to take care of you again, pretty girl,” he kissed your back softly.

He wrapped his hand around his cock slowly and languidly pumping it. He couldn’t help but tease slightly circled his tip along your entrance pulling desperate whines from you. He finally reached his own breaking point, unable to stand not being able to feel you so he pushed his hips forward moaning loudly at how tight you felt around him.

“So good, pretty girl,” he moaned.

“Fuck, Stevie. Filling me up so good; you’re so big,” you sighed.

“Damn right, pretty girl. Taking my cock so well. Fucking made for me,” he grunted.

His snapped in and out increasingly quicker with each thrust; the vulgar sounds of his movements and skin slapping against each other echoed loudly in the room. Harmonizing with both your pleasurable moans.

Chasing both your releases, Steve’s hips jerked rougher and harder in and out of you making you practically shriek at the feeling. He leaned forward wrapping his hand around your throat before pulling you flush against his chest.

“Such pretty baby,” he bit your ear.

“Fuck! Stevie I need to come,” you whined.

“Yeah, you want to come all over my cock? Make a fucking mess?” he growled.

“Please!”

“Hold on, pretty girl. I’m almost there,” he sighed, throwing his head back and closing his eyes in pleasure.

You whined and whimpered, tears brimming your eyes from that overwhelming feeling. You couldn’t help but clench hard around his cock desperately holding back for your release.

“Fuck, do that again, pretty girl,” Steve gasped.

“God, yes. I’m close, pretty girl. You ready to come?” he pulled your head back to look at your face.

Tears fell inelegantly down your cheeks, sweat lined your forehead, your chest moved rapidly up and down; to Steve, you looked ethereal.

“Please,” you whimpered.

“Let go, pretty girl. I gotcha,” he whispered against your lips.

Your eyes rolled back as your body shook against Steve’s, releasing onto his dick profoundly. Steve swallowed your louds moans, roughly pressing his lips to yours, moaning himself. You clenched hard around Steve one last time feeling his throbbing cock shoot hot ribbons of cum, coating your walls.

When you eased your way slowly down from your high, Steve laid you down gently pulling out to see his cum mixed with yours spilling from you. You looked so fucked out breathing heavily, whimpering at the loss of Steve inside you. He wanted to, but held back from taking you again. But not wanting to hurt you, he treaded towards the bathroom and turned on the water to run you two a hot bath. He picked you up gently pressing kisses all over your face and neck before planting one delicious kiss on your lips; your hands reaching around his neck to deepen it if that was even possible.

“You’re so beautiful,” he whispered, coating your arms with soap to wash you. You laid against him with your eyes closed desperately trying not to fall asleep in his arms.

“I didn’t hurt you?” he asked softly.

“Mh-m,” you shook your head slightly with a blissful smile on your face.

“Good,” he wrapped his arms around you tightly, kissing you passionately.

“Thank you,” you mumbled, barely audibly.

“For coming to hang out with me tonight,” you chuckled. Your eyes felt too heavy, simply remembering the way he carried you carefully back to your bed and held for the rest of the night.

ᴛᴀɢʟɪsᴛ: (For all my work)

@mathletemadison​

@buckybarnes101​

@l-sofiamia-l

@pluto-grl

@partr1dge

@stefans-wife

@cordeliaswhore

@fleurlovesbucky

@wandanatasha0720

[hwapyungah]

Hi!! I just want to talk about these choiyoonhwapyung thoughts that I can’t get out of my head.

What if when hp comes back, he had no memories of the past? Somehow the trauma supressed all memories of park il do. For all hp knows he comes from a family of shamans and he’s lost them all due to a freak accident. He remembers going through the orphanage system (HC: grandpa didnt want him to live in a town where people are scared of him and keep whispering about his family’s death) and working in the city as a taxi driver, living an ordinary lonely life.

Choi yoon, having lived all his life under the influence of father yang (it was him who convinced yoon to enter priesthood for a chance to find his brother, recommended parish where he can serve, saying that the city has more people for him to help etc) decided to put in a transfer to the countryside.

That’s when he coincidentally met reclusive hp, blind in one eye, hair hasn’t been cut in what looked to be more than a year and wearing yoon’s rosary around his neck loading fish at the docks.

His heart soared, eyes getting misty and softly called out hwa pyung’s name only for it to plummet and shatter to the ground when hp with zero recognition in his usually fond eyes said “Do I know you?”.

Like!! I just think he’d be devastated!! He knows it’s probably for the better that hp doesnt remember all those heartbreaks and devastating nightmare but he can’t help but want for hp to see him again, to look at him and know that just a year ago they’d both lay down their own life to protect the other. To be his friend, his other half who shared the same tragic past who only have each other in this cruel world. That urge to be in hp’s life again for him to look at him and only him clashes with his desire to make sure hp only knows happiness and none of his dark past. Therefore, yoon decides that he will stay by hp side in whatever way possible, someone who lives in the same small town, nextdoor neighbour, newfound acquaintance. Whatever he would be to hwa pyung, however much it would hurt for hwa pyung to KNOW him but not REMEMBER him, he would stay with him.

First off, I read this ask while I was at work and got SO EMOTIONAL. Dear god it hurts to think about and I was a mess for a hot second lmfao.

That said, your interpretation of how Yoon would handle Hwa Pyung not remembering him is so spot-on ughhhh. It says a lot for how much he grew as a character during the show. I think a lot about how he went from being cold and standoffish because he simply didn't understand why Hwa Pyung behaved the way he did, all the way to how utterly SOFT he was for the dude following his release from jail, and like...god I love him so much.

I feel like a Choi Yoon before the Assemblywoman Park situation would have responded to that kind of reaction very coldly and taken it personally. But the Choi Yoon who saw just what kind of person Hwa Pyung was and how his own trauma shaped him (the dude can relate okay), he would be willing to stay by the guy's side. Hell, he probably feels like he owes it to him.

On that same note, it might be kind of bittersweet to see how an amnesiac Hwa Pyung who doesn't remember his trauma might address someone as rigid and formal as Yoon. He wouldn't have his obsession with getting rid of a demon obscuring his thoughts. He and Yoon would probably still bicker, but conversation would grow easier and a different kind of bond would form. It wouldn't be what they had before, but Yoon will take it.

Hwa Pyung sure looks peaceful when he smiles.

[yesttoheaven]

I SEE YOU – chapter III

pairing – arthur fleck x female!reader

wc – 2.6k

warnings – just fluff and a little bit of angst

English is not my first language. I am getting help from google translator and he is not always a good ally, so I apologize for any typos or grammar errors.

Y/N – your name

Y/L/N – your last name

🔴 chapter one. chapter two. chapter three.

The actress looked around, enjoying the apartment where Arthur lived with his mother. The place was small, very different from what she was used to, but this simplicity was nostalgic and reminded her of her childhood; when everything seemed simple, despite the difficulties.

Unfortunately Arthur was still at work, but Penny assured her that he would be back soon and added that Y/N could wait for him. At first Brian didn't approve of this idea, considering that the actress was going to an important dinner tonight, but he should know that it’s impossible to say no to her puppy eyes. Now Brian is probably driving to Misty's house, ready to take her to Y/N's apartment, exactly as they agreed the day before. The only difference would be the absence of the actress, but this would be justified with: "She's at Angelina's." Although the plan was apparently perfect, leaving her alone with practically unknown people was worrisome. Y/N's safety was his responsibility. If something happened to her, Brian would never forgive himself, but she stated with all the letters that she would stay inside the apartment, waiting for him with Arthur and Penny. And they were not bad people.

Y/N didn't like to involve Brian in this web of lies, but Misty knew how to be stifling when she wanted to. Visiting Arthur was not illegal, but she didn't see it that way. In her conception, to be friends with Y/N Y/N/L you need to have a bank account with many zeros after the comma.

Placing her manager at the bottom of her thoughts, Y/N's eyes fell on the small table next to the couch she was on. A few magazines were spread out and a shy smile crossed her lips. She would probably never get used to it.

Noticing the young woman's interest in magazines, Penny said:

"This actress is so graceful."

"You think? I hear only bad things about her." Y/N replied, taking one of the magazines and placing it next to her face, reproducing the cover.

When the realization reached Arthur's mother, she looked at Y/N with wide eyes, thinking it was a mirage caused by the effects of the medicines she used daily. When she opened the door and found the woman on the other side, Penny didn't imagine that Y/N was Y/N Y/L/N, the same woman who is in all these magazines.

"That was my first cover... six years have passed and I'm still nervous on camera." The actress smiled, leaving the magazine with the other copies.

"You need to excuse me, I'm too old for that... I watch your movies with my son and I was unable to recognize you."

"It's all right, these photos are usually a little bit manipulated. Maybe that's why you didn't recognize me."

The conversation continued pleasantly between them. Penny Fleck didn't feel like she was talking to one of Gotham's biggest actresses; Y/N seemed to be just a nice neighbor, the one who always shows up for a visit at the end of the day. They only knew each other for a few minutes, but it didn't matter, Penny was comfortable, sharing with her a little bit of his life with Arthur, or Happy as she used to call her son. The actress considered this point intriguing, because when she met Arthur, sadness was the only thing that existed on his face like a second skin, but maybe she was just impressed.

...

Every day was exactly the same for Arthur. He went to work, spent the day spinning his sign in front of a store or visited sick children in hospitals – this was his favorite; Carnival loved to bring joy to them. The time to return home represented some relief for the clown. This meant that his co-workers would have to wait for the next day to continue making fun of him. Arthur would always be a joke for everyone.

Tired for another exhausting day at work – or just being who he is – all Arthur wanted at that moment was to relax by smoking a cigarette. Dragging himself out of the elevator, he made his way to his old apartment and took the keys out of his pocket to open the door. He warned that he was back, but his mother did not respond. Arthur suspected she was asleep, but as soon as he put his feet in the living room, his body froze.

The likelihood of them seeing each other again was one in a million, but here she was, surprising him once again. There was no plausible explanation for what he was feeling at the moment. Accelerated heart. Sweaty palms. And the most sincere smile of his entire life. Arthur was genuinely happy. Seeing the actress again was enough to erase all his problems. Y/N was like a breath of fresh air to his lungs. There was something about her, something that you notice from a long distance, but that Arthur can't put into words.

"Happy, your friend was waiting for you." Penny broke the silence, bringing them to reality again.

With a smile, Y/N stood up, running her hands over the dress she wore. She approached the man and greeted him in her soft voice:

"Hi, Arthur. How've you been?" Surprised by her own courage, she touched his shoulder and left a kiss on his cheek.

Arthur felt his cheeks turn into two tomatoes and he automatically looked at the ground, hiding a shy smile in the corner of his lips. But knowing that she was waiting for an answer, he took a deep breath, looking at her again and saying:

"Hey, I'm... I'm good. How about you?"

"I couldn’t be better. I hope I'm not bothering you, your mom said I could stay to wait for you."

"Don't say that, you never bother, dear! Now I'm going to leave you two alone so you can talk." The woman tried to get up and Arthur quickly moved to stand beside her, helping Penny back to the bedroom.

It was easy to see how much he loves his mother.

A few minutes later, Arthur was back in the living room, looking a little nervous about the situation. It was possible to state that the actress felt the same way, remembering the reason that brought her to the other side of the city. She didn't want to say anything in front of Penny, but now she could and the words were stuck in her throat.

"I don't know where to start... I'm so sorry for the way you were treated. They couldn't have done that to you, Arthur."

"How d-did you know?"

"Brian talked to the receptionist..." She said, biting her lower lip in an attempt to control herself, but that was not enough. "I'm so mad at Susan! Who does she think she is to treat you that way?"

"Don't be m-mad at her because of me... It's okay, I'm used to it." Arthur replied, trying to reassure the actress. The last thing he wanted to do was be responsible for erasing her smile, but his words made Y/N even more concerned.

"What are you saying?"

"My life is... different from yours." He murmured, shaking his shoulders as if it didn't matter, but the sad expression on his face showed just the opposite. "I d-don't want to bother you with my stupid problems. This is not worth your time."

"But I have all the time in the world to hear you. Please tell me..." Y/N insisted, still trying to understand what he meant by 'I'm used to it'.

Susan had compared Arthur to a criminal; someone dangerous. She judged him by his appearance. His actions. His somewhat confused way of speaking. No. This is not normal. This is not something that Arthur should just 'get used to'.

"C-Can I get you something to drink?" He asked, shifting the focus of the conversation in the blink of an eye. Just a few more words and he could feel the laughter in the back of his throat, begging to leave. And that was not what he wanted.

"But..." The actress tried again, but acknowledged it was time to stop. She showed one of her beautiful smiles and that was enough to warm the man's heart. "Water, please."

Following Arthur into the kitchen, she stood by the door, watching him. Arthur was not a bad person – and he wasn't a criminal either, as Susan thought. Y/N just wanted to have the opportunity to get to know him better. It was as if the man still has his face paint on; as if he were still Carnival and she desperately wanted to meet the man hiding behind the paint, but Y/N understood that invading his space was not the best way to achieve this.

"Oh, thanks!" She thanked him, holding the cup and drinking, as they walked back to the living room. Pointing to the magazines, she fired: "These magazines are old... Are you a collector or something?"

"Not exactly... It was a few months ago, this guy was throwing the magazines in the trash because nobody wanted to buy, but he sold it to me for half the price..." Arthur's eyes widened when he realized what he had said. He scratched the back of his neck, completely embarrassed, but the actress just started laughing.

"It's okay, Arthur. I like your sincerity." She added, finding the situation funny. "But tell me, what is your favorite?"

The man pointed to the third magazine without thinking twice. Unlike the others, this cover was focused only on Y/N's angelic face. She was holding a white rose; the petals of the flower touching her lips painted in bright red.

"You have the most beautiful smile I've ever seen in my life." He thought aloud, making her blush with his sincere words.

Y/N was constantly praised. Men and women. Different ages. Nationalities. Some were adorable, others completely depraved, but no one was able to make her feel what she was feeling right now.

Arthur was surprised at himself. This trust was not constant in his life, but close to her, it was as if he wanted to try. It was easy, because he was just telling the truth. Her smile was beautiful.

"So... what is this?" After a few minutes of silence, she asked, pointing again at the small table in the center of the living room.

"Oh, this is my journal!" The man picked up his journal and sat down next to her on the couch. "My therapist forced me to have one. I write my thoughts, some new jokes and other things..."

"I love jokes, but I need to confess that clowns are not my point."

"Don't you like clowns?" Arthur was not angry with her, in fact he thought it was funny. "How is this possible?"

"Don't judge me! It's nothing personal... I don't hate them completely, i just get a little nervous." Y/N started to laugh, being accompanied by him. When the laughter stopped, she said: "Now the million dollar question... What did you think of 'Midnight Seduction'? But you need to promise me that you will be honest with your criticism, right?"

The man shook his head in agreement.

"So I can start by saying that the ending was not as I expected, she died..." Arthur knew it was just a fictional death, but Y/N's flawless performance took that scene to another level. He was paralyzed by her talent. Y/N was definitely born to shine. Her filmography was rich.

"My Diana..." The actress spoke fondly about the character, remembering the day she read the script for the first time. Nobody was expecting this. "I like to imagine that she had a second chance. No prostitution. No drugs. Without HIV. And with someone by your side to love."

"This is a good ending, I like it... Rosalind was the only person who cared about her."

"Oh, did you notice?" Y/N asked, leaving the glass of water on the table. "I mentioned this in an interview, but the next day everyone was distorting my words!"

"It's just... love. What's wrong with that?"

"Unfortunately some people will never understand what love is."

Looking at Y/N and Arthur, it was possible to see that they were opposite poles. Their lives were completely different, but it was intriguing how they always found a connection. Time passed quickly, but they were still involved in a long conversation. Y/N loved to hear the man tell about his work as a clown – obviously he didn't mention the bad side. The actress told about NGOs, some trips around the globe and the preparation to play her characters. Each character was a new challenge and Arthur found it fascinating that she lived several lives in just one.

When the conversation followed a delicate path, Y/N considered changing this path, but she gave up and stood up, walking around the living room with a nostalgic smile growing on her lips. Arthur watched a few interviews, but hearing the actress speak directly to him about her childhood in Narrows was different. She lived in a simple house with her mother and brother. The situation was not easy, they did not have much money. Today her mother and brother are living in France, enjoying a wonderful life because of Y/N and her promising career. She missed them. She talked to them on the phone every day, but that was her best decision. Gotham has become a hostile, completely violent city, but it was in the middle of this violent city that her life changed...

"I was working at a restaurant in the downtown when Misty saw me in that hideous uniform..." Y/N couldn't help but laugh. "She said I was too pretty to clean shitty toilets, but cleaning shitty toilets was what puts money on the table at the end of the month... So she said she had an indecent proposal for me. I figured she would offer me a job at a nightclub... I probably would have accepted it. I was desperate to help my family, but she asked if i would like to be famous... A simple answer, "yes" and see how I look six years later. That horrible uniform became the most expensive designer dresses in the world, my mom has a beautiful house and everything she deserves, my little brother is having all the support for his studies and that girl with dreams turned into a famous actress, but..."

Unhappy.

Y/N completed in her mind, she was not strong enough to say that. She was also not ungrateful. Misty turned the girl's life into a fairy tale, but at the same time it took her life. In six years, she never had a break. Her manager was always bringing her a new job. The actress knew this was important for her career, but she didn't have time for anything other than work. She didn't have time to visit her own family. She was stuck.

Arthur heard someone knock on the door, but he kept his eyes on Y/N. The woman was in absolute silence and close to tears. Her smile was gone. She was suffering in front of him and he didn't know what to do to get this pain out of her.

"You should check this out." She murmured and at first he didn't react, but when the person knocked on the door again, Arthur stood up.

The actress took advantage of the moment to compose herself, trying to normalize her breathing, but when she heard that voice, her body just froze. The next minute the redhead appeared in the living room holding her Prada bag and looking at everything with an expression of disgust, but when she saw Y/N, she said:

"Mon cher, why didn't you tell me you wanted to visit your new friend? You know you don't have to lie to me."

--------------------------------------

a/n – likes and reblogs are appreciated but honestly I’d love to know what you all think of this one. really hope you enjoy it and thank you soooo much for reading ♡

[that-bajan-kid]

Boku No Hero Academia Chapter 293 SPOILERS

(These children used their one collective brain cell and decided to rush head first into the arms of Death with zero fucks given)

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Oh that orange hair is not a good look on Shiggy. Izuku looks adorable in anything I can't argue.

We get an adorable panel of Eri eating a cracker/cookie next Lemillion bursting forth from the ground once more. Izuku ask him how he's here rn and apparently this boy has just been chilling at Nighteye's agency, which is conveniently not to far from here. He had to of had his quirk for a while now if he was at the agency right?

Omg look at Eri!! She's so cute I literally have to point her out whenever she's on screen. I don't make the rules here, that's just how it is. And Ochako is doing her hair!!!! I'm gonna explode from the cuteness. And all that other stuff they're talking about is important to I guess.

SHE'S SO FUCKING CUTE I LITERALLY CAN NOT

They're all babies. She looks so happy to help out too. The little bounce she does when she looks back at Dadzawa for permission. AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH-

Mirio is asking for back up cause even he can't take on 4 NHEs by himself. So of course Bakugou, with the two holes in his abdomen, leaps in to action even tho he really shouldn't. I swear these kids are all suicidal.

THESE FUCKING KIDS AND THEIR LACK OF SELF PRESERVATION IS GOING TO BE THE DEATH OF ME I SWEAR. Also, I believe the time is now upon us my brothers and sisters.

(Edit: I just realised I've been spelling his fucking name wrong this whole time. My brain just autocorrected it to the proper spelling and I didn't even noticed lmao. Please forgive me.)

Of course Spinner thinks it's cool. IS JEANIST FUCKING CRYING LMAO

I like it. It's very Katsuki Bakugou and not nearly as bad as the first two. You go, Dynamite. Man, I can't wait to see the fandom's reaction to this. How many people are gonna throw a tantrum cause its not Ground Zero? Or fucking Kacchan?

Mirio says he thinks it's funny and Dynamite says it's not meant to be funny. Mirio quotes Nighteye speech about there being laughter and you to balance out the sorrow and apologises for the absolute disrespect he just showed my son's new hero name.

Enji, sweetheart, I know your in shock about your dead son not being dead and that you're literally on death's door, but Shouto is going to fucking die if you don't move your ass. I'm not mad and I understand why you're not doing anything right now. But, and I mean this in the nicest way possible, i would sacrifice you in a heartbeat if it meant saving Shouto's life. Don't get me wrong, I like your character a lot, but you dying would be a nice end to your redemption arc if you end up saving Shouto. And at this point I honestly don't care about what happens to Dabi. He's trying to kill my son. Fuck that guy lol. Doesn't mean I don't like him tho.

Why are people defending this guy again? Cause of his trauma? Don't get me wrong, I like Dabi as much as the next guy but if his death means Shouto gets to live, I don't have a problem with that either. Dabi and Enji are in the same boat.

My boi Deku coming in clutch with Black Whip even tho he really shouldn't be to save his best friend. Dabi's gonna try to burn him too, I can feel it coming. Also Izuku is thinking about how his arms and legs don't have any strength like that's the only thing wrong with them. He'd be lucky if he can even move them when all of this is over.

"Don't put this in a Doujin" I am deceased. Cris is no longer among the living. She has ascended to the heavens. Who ever this translater is, they're doing God's work. I can't wait to see the discourse about Izuku's speech in the tags. I can already hear the "Izuku is defending Endeawhore therefore he supports abuse #canceldeku2020" posts in my head. Anyway, I like what Izu says here tho, it's very much in character for him. I also like his Froppy inspired Black Whip: Projectile Vomit Mode. Very unexpected tbh.

Izuku yells "You are not Endeavour" and Dabi responds with "No shit, Sherlock" and asks if Izuku pities him even a little bit and I wouldn't fault him for straight up saying "No" considering everything Dabi has put him and his friends through. Hell, if I was Midoriya I wouldn't even be trying to get through to him rn. A trait I strongly admire about Izuku. Dabi goes on to say he is the culmination of all of Endeavour's sins and we get a panel showing threads snapping and I don't know if it's supposed to be what's left of Izuku's mental stability or Dabi's. Or if it's an actual thread snapping. Dabi goes on to spout some bullshit about how evil will never prosper and justice will crumble now that he's shown the naive citizens of Japan who to blame, which is the heroes apparently.

Uhhh so that snapping thread I mentioned earlier is actually the carbon fibre wire Jeanist is using to keep Machia contained and like all of them just snapped like twigs. Dabi continues his speech about how chaos now reigns supreme while everyone panics about Machia. Meanwhile Deku is having a moment.

Correction, Endeavour was the one having a moment and has decided to take action despite his obvious condition called dying. He rockets his way towards Machia and bitch slaps him in the face and immediately follows that up by saying he feels numb. He totally gonna die and I'm totally gonna feel sad about it. I'm already tearing up.

FUCKING FINALLY GOD DAMNIT

I knew it was gonna work. Never doubt my gurl Creati. She's the smartest kid in class for a reason. It feels like it took forever but it was probably only a few mins. I can't wait for everything to go wrong again. Also, everyone who thinks Endeavour is either going to die or, end up with a debilitating disability, raise your hand 🙋. Mans suffering from the most severe case of heat stroke to ever stroke and is running on burnt lungs and he was impaled by Shigaraki/AFO. He's not having a fun time.

I think it's safe to say that Eri won't healing anyone after this. It looks like all her quirks energy went into giving Mirio his quirk. Meaning all these injuries that the heroes are getting won't be magically disappearing. Aizawa isn't getting his leg back, Izuku's arms are probably never gonna work again, Gran Torino is fucking dead just like Endeavour's career, and Endeavour is probably gonna fucking die too. Cause Shouto doesn't have enough trauma in his life.

Time for me to venture into the tags and see what the latest discourse is. Can't wait for everyone to call Izuku an abuser sympathiser even tho he called out Endeavour during the sports, or say that the heroes are somehow abusing Eri like Overhaul did cause she gave Mirio his quirk back even tho she clearly wanted to do it. The chaos fuels me.

Until next time.

[supermarvelgirl15]

Home- Chapter 4 (The Prisoner)

Summary: Din and Jesla join a crew of mercenaries on a dangerous mission to spring a convict from a prison ship. Jesla sees someone from her past.

Pairing: Eventual Din Djarin (The Mandalorian) × OC!Jesla Gavdo

Word Count: 3,725

Warnings: Violence, gun TW, Mayfeld being insensitive

A/N: Din Djarin in red lighting. That's all I'm gonna say

Series Masterlist // Main Masterlist

××××××

   Jesla paces behind Din as he lands the Razor Crest in a space station hangar bay, muttering to herself. He told her that he had contacted a man he once knew, and that he would pay them for a job that he needed done. She was reluctant about taking this job, but then again, she almost died on the last one.

   “You don't need to be moving around so much. You're not exactly completely healed,” Mando reminds her as he stands up from his seat. 

   “I gotta bad feeling about this, Mando,” Jesla tells him, tapping the side of her leg. Something didn't feel right to her about this at all.

    Din rolls his eyes from beneath his helmet as he starts down the ladder. “You're being paranoid,” he replies. Jesla scoffs as she follows him down. He had the audacity to tell her she was being paranoid?

   “If I recall- correct me if I'm wrong- the last time I said that, we had to emergency land on Tatooine,” she retorts, placing her hand on her hip. Mando grumbles incoherently, making Jesla smirk slightly. She knew that she had a point. 

   He doesn't say anything as he lowers the ramp and walks out into the hangar, Jesla shaking her head before following him. Lately, she found herself following him a lot. Maybe it was because she always followed somebody her entire life, that she was use to it. You could say she was trained to follow somebody.

   She watches as a bearded man walks up to them. “Mando, is that you under that bucket?” The man questions, offering his hand to the Mandalorian.

   “Ran,” Mando says as he shakes his hand. Jesla could tell that they were just merely acquaintances just by Mando's tone of voice. He seemed to have a different tone when talking to people that he liked more.

   “Didn't really know if I'd ever see you in these parts again. Good to see you. You know, to be honest, I was a little surprised when you reached out to me. You know, ’cause I... I hear things. Like, maybe things between you and the Guild aren't working out,” Ran says, giving Mando a look.

   “I'll be fine,” Din replies shortly. That was Mando for you.

   “Hmm okay. Well, you know the policy. No questions. And you, you're welcome back here anytime,” Ran informs him. He turns to Jesla, giving her a once over. “I don't believe we've met. The name's Ran,” he offers his hand to her.

   Jesla looks at his hand briefly before looking back at him. “Jesla Gavdo,” she offers her name, but doesn't take his hand as she continues to walk across the catwalk.

   Ran drops his hand as he leans over to Din. “Some woman you got there,” he mutters to him. Din hums in response, watching after her.

   “So what's the job?” Din asks as they continue to walk across the catwalk as well.

   “Yeah, one of our associates ran afoul of some competitors and got himself caught. So I'm putting together a crew to spring him. It's a five person job, I got four- the extra help is fine. All I need is the ride, and you brought it,” Ran explains, gesturing to the Razor Crest.

   Mando and Jesla share a quick look with one another. “The ship wasn't part of the deal.”

   “Well, the Crest is the only reason I let you back in here,” Ran admits. Din slowly turns to him. “What's the look? Is that gratitude? Uh-huh, I think it is,” Ran laughs as he walks off. Jesla and Din share another look before following him.

   They all walk into a different area of the hangar. Jesla sees a bald-headed man, her eyes widening as she realizes who he is. This was just her luck.

   “Mayfeld?”

   The man turns around with his brow furrowed, his eyes scanning for who called his name. When his eyes land on Jesla, they widen slightly. Din looks between the two, his confusion hidden behind his helmet.

   “Gavdo? I thought you were dead,” Mayfeld remarks as he walks up to her, crossing his arms.

   “I'm surprised you're not,” Jesla comments, looking him up and down. He still looked the same since the last time she saw him. 

   Back then, Mayfeld and Jesla always seemed to compete with each other. They were the top two sharpshooters in their division. The two always tried to one up each other in the field. So basically, they didn't get along much. 

    “I take it you two already know each other,” Ran says, making Jesla and Mayfeld finally break their eye contact with one another. “This is Mando. The guy I was telling you about. We used to do jobs way back when,” he tells Mayfeld.

   Mayfeld then turns to face Mando. “This is the guy?” He queries, also giving him a once over.

   “Yeah, we were all young, trying to make a name for ourselves. Yeah, but running with a Mandalorian, that was... that brought us some reputation,” Ran reminisces.

   “Oh ya? What did he get out of it?” Mayfeld questions, raising his eyebrows.

   “I asked him that one time. You remember what you said, Mando? Target practice. Man, we did some crazy stuff, didn't we?” Ran laughs, patting Mando on the back.

   “That was a long time ago,” Din replies gruffly. 

   “Well... Well I don't go out anymore. You understand? So uh... Mayfeld, he's gonna run point on this job. If he says it, it's like it's coming from me. You good with that?” Ran asks Mando, quirking up an eyebrow at him.

   Din glances over at Jesla, who scoffs. “You tell me.”

   Ran shakes his head as he laughs. “You haven't changed one bit,” he says amusingly.

   “Ya, well, things have changed around here,” Mayfeld grumbles as he turns and walks away. Jesla rolls her eyes as she goes to stand beside Mando. 

    Mando leans his head closer to Jesla. “So who's he?” He quietly asks her.

   “Migs Mayfeld. He's also a former Imperial sharpshooter. We were in the same division,” Jesla answers as they all walk up to the Razor Crest.

   “Razor Crest? I can't believe that thing can fly. Looks like a Canto Bight slot machine,” Mayfeld comments as he observes it. They walk up to a group of people that's standing near the Crest. “Alright, the good looking fella there with the horns, that's Burg,” Mayfeld introduces the red creature that drops a crate he was carrying. “This may surprise you, but he's our muscle,” he adds.

   Burg walks up to the Mandalorian and inspects him closely, ignoring Jesla's presence. “So this is a Mandalorian. I thought they'd be bigger,” he sneers.

   “Droid's name is Zero,” Mayfeld gestures to a droid that walks up to them. Oh, Mando was going to love that.

   Jesla looks around the group with a furrowed brow. “I thought you said you had four,” she points out.

   “He does.”

   Both the Mandalorian and Jesla turn slowly to find a purple skinned female Twi'lek walking up to them, playing with a knife. “Hello, Mando,” she greets Din.

   “Xi'an,” Din nods in acknowledgement. Jesla could feel Mando tense due to the Twi'lek that seemed to ignore her, much like everyone else did.

   “Tell me why I shouldn't cut you down where you stand?” Xi'an hisses before she suddenly attacks, placing her knife on Mando's throat, who doesn't flinch at all. Jesla's fingers itch towards her blaster as she watches the Twi'leck closely.

   “Nice to see you too,” Mando responds nonchalantly.

   “I missed you,” she laughs. “This is shiny. You wear it well,” she comments as she clinks her knife against his beskar. She looks over towards Jesla, her eyes narrowing on her.

   “Do we need to leave the room or something?” Mayfeld jokes as he watches the exchange between Xi'an and Din.

    Ran chuckles slightly before answering. “Well, Xi'an's been a little heartbroken since Mando left our group,” he says.

   “Awww... You gonna be okay, sweetheart?” Mayfeld teases, Burg laughing from beside him.

   Xi'an pushes herself away from Mando. “I'm all business now. Learned from the best,” she points her knife at him.

   “All right, lovebirds. Break it up till you get on the ship. Right now, we don't have much time,” Ran tells them.

  They all walk toward the Razor Crest, Xi'an turning back and winking at Mando. Jesla decides that she doesn't like her at all. Then again, she didn't like most people.

                                              ∞∞∞

   Jesla's watches Mayfeld as he explains the job to them from beside Mando, shifting her weight to one foot as she listens. Her wound was starting to feel sore from her walking around so much. Maybe she should've listened to Mando, but she was never going to admit that to him.

   “So, package is being moved on a fortified transport ship. Now, we got a limited window to board, find our friend, get ’em outta there before they make their jump,” Mayfeld informs all of them as he shows them a hologram. 

   “That's a New Republic prison ship. Your man wasn't taken by a rival syndicate, he was arrested,” Jesla points out as she shifts her weight to her other foot. She wasn't about to be on the New Republic's radar.

   Mayfeld looks up at her from the hologram. “So what?”

   “That's a max security transport, and we're not looking for that kind of heat,” Mando cuts in, crossing his arms. 

   “Well, neither are we. So just don't mess up,” Ran tells them. Jesla and Din share a brief look, something they seemed to do quite a lot.

   “The good news for you is the ship is manned by droids. Still hate the machines, Mando?” Xi'an jeers at Din, making Jesla shoot her a glare. Who knows, by the end of this, Jesla may kill her like she did with Toro.

   They all continue to go over the plan. Jesla knew Mando wasn't thrilled with the droid, Zero, flying his ship. However, they both knew that Zero was the best choice to scramble their signal as they boarded the New Republic ship.

   Jesla didn't like nor trust anyone that they were working with. None of them knew the value of loyalty. They only kept each other alive so the job could be done efficiently. She despised people like that.

   “Some friends you got there,” Jesla says sarcastically to the Mandalorian as they walk up the ramp into the Crest. 

   Din chuckles dryly. “I don't think ‘friends’ is what I'd call them,” he mutters. Jesla nods in agreement as they walk up into the cockpit as the ship takes off.

   In the cockpit, both Jesla and Mando linger in the back as Zero sits at the controls. “Calculations complete. Jumping to hyperspace...now. Feel free to join the others. I will handle it from here,” it informs them. 

   Mando walks down the ladder to the hangar first, helping Jesla as she climbs down after him. He knew that she needed to rest before they got to the prison ship. She wouldn't be at her best if she was in pain. Jesla seemed to also know this as well as she sat down on a crate, taking a deep breath as she ignored the glare she was receiving from Xi'an. 

   “That's a pretty thing you got there, Mando. How'd you end up with it?” Xi'an asks him as she plays with her knife. Jesla ignores her as she lays her head against the wall. 

   When Mando doesn't answer her, she continues. “C'mon. There's gotta be a reason why you keep her around,” she says innocently. 

   “She's good at what she does,” Din answers her, handing Jesla a ration bar. She realizes she hadn't eaten anything all day as she takes a bite out of it. 

   Xi'an eyes their interaction as she sits up a bit straighter. “Oh? I'm sure she pleasures you greatly,” she smirks, making Burg laugh. 

   Neither Din nor Jesla reacts to her, Jesla taking the last bite of her ration bar. She knew Xi'an was trying to get under her skin, but she wasn't going to give her the satisfaction. Jesla found it amusing though.

   Mayfeld chuckles as he stands beside Xi'an. “Hey, if you wanna get to her, just mention Burnin Konn.”

   Jesla's head snaps up at that, Din watching her carefully. He really didn't want to deal with this right now. 

    “What's Burnin Konn?” Burg humors him with a sly smile, Xi'an laughing at Jesla's sudden reaction. 

   “It was a great loss for the Empire. Everyone in our division died, about 5-10,000 people,” Mayfeld replies as he watches Jesla closely. 

   Din watches as Jesla's eyes harden, her hand subconsciously grabbing her tatted wrist. “Watch it, Mayfeld,” she warns him.

   “Don't tell me you're still not over that. Is it because of those stupid clones you were attached to?”

    Abruptly, Jesla stands up and pulls out her blaster as she makes her way to Mayfeld, pointing it at his head. Before she could pull the trigger, Mando swiftly grabs the gun out of her hand. They stare at each other for a few seconds before she shoots Mayfeld a glare and walks away from him.

   Everyone, except for Din and Jesla, starts laughing. Oh, how Jesla couldn't wait until this job was finished so she could kill them all. 

   “Hey, Xi'an, you flew with Mando. Is he as good as they say?” Mayfeld questions the Twi'leck.

   “Ask him about the job on Alzoc III,” Xi'an answers him, turning her attention to the Mandalorian.

   It's Jesla's turn to watch Mando carefully as she turns to face him. “I did what I had to,” he simply responds. That was a phrase Jesla found herself living by.

   “Oh, but you liked it. See, unlike some people, I know who you really are,” Xi'an says, looking at Jesla as she says the last part. Jesla rolls her eyes as she takes her blaster back from Mando and puts it back in its holster.

   “He never takes off the helmet?” Mayfeld queries, crossing his arms over his chest. 

   Xi'an shakes her head with a chuckle. “This is the Way,” she mocks. Jesla wonders how Mando was even capable of putting up with the stupid Twi'leck. She can't even last an hour.

   “You ever seen his face?”

   “A lady... never tells.”

   Din tenses slightly at the new subject, Jesla not missing him doing so. He acted the same way back on Sorgan when her and Cara brought it up.

   “Aw, come on, Mando. We all gotta trust each other here. You gotta show us something. Come on, just lift the helmet up. Come on. Let's all see your eyes,” Mayfeld taunts. When Mando doesn't make a move to take it off, Mayfeld nods at Burg who then closes in on Din.

   As Burg's hand reaches to take off Din's helmet, Jesla grabs it and twists his arm back behind him. Burg tries to fight back, but Jesla kicks him back. Burg grapples for something to hold onto, hitting the release button to the cot, the hatch opening and revealing the Child. 

   “Whoa! What is that?” Mayfeld exclaims, examining the Child closely. “Wait a minute,” he gestures between Mando and Xi'an, “did you two make that? Huh? What is it? Like...a pet or something?”

   “Yeah. Something like that,” Mando says calmly.

   “Didn't take you for the type. Maybe that code of yours has made you soft,” Xi'an teases him.

   “Me, I was never really into pets. Yeah, didn't have the temperament. Patience, you know. I mean, I tried but... never worked out. What I'm thinking... maybe,” Mayfeld picks up the Child, “I'll try again with this little fella. Huh?”

   Mayfeld pretends to drop the Child, making both Din and Jesla flinch in response. Xi'an and Mayfeld laugh at them. Then the ship starts shaking, everyone fighting for balance. The ship rolls and everyone is thrown around in the hangar. Mayfeld drops the Child and Din immediately dives after him. Jesla tightly grabs onto the wall, balancing herself. 

   The Razor Crest finally docks to the transport. Mando places the Child back in the cot as Jesla curses the droid under her breath. Burg angrily tosses some crates around. 

   Once everyone settles, they start executing the plan. The Mandalorian hacks the opening mechanism of the prison ship's hatch. Jesla is the first one to quietly drop down into the halls of ship, everyone else following after her. 

   They all start moving down the corridors, looking into the prison cells. Everything was going well until Burg decided to blast a mouse droid, which alerted security droids of their presence. Luckily, Mando sneaks up behind the droids and takes them out in a melee fight by himself. Jesla had to admit, he had some skills.

   Upon reaching the control room, Mayfeld commands Zero to open the door. When it opens, it reveals a human guard inside, brandishing a blaster. There wasn't supposed to be any living things on board.

   “There were only supposed to be droids on this ship,” Mando voices Jesla's concerns.

   Mayfeld walks around the guard to observe the control panel. “Hang on, hang on. See here uh...cell two-two-one. All right, now for our well dressed friend...” He trails off once the guard pulls out a tracking beacon.

   Everyone draws out their blasters and trains it on the guard, except for Jesla who trains hers on Mayfeld. She wasn't about to kill an innocent man; she didn't do that anymore.

   Din tried his best talking everyone down. He calmly addressed the guard, whose name was Davan. When Mayfeld wouldn't lower his blaster on the guard, Mando joins Jesla on training their blasters on him. Mayfeld trains his second blaster on Din and his third blaster that was on a droid arm on Jesla. Burg takes out his weapon and trains it on Mando as well, making Mando aim his vambrace weapon at him. 

   An argument breaks out between all of them; Mayfeld wanting to kill the guard, Din and Jesla wanting to let him live. It suddenly stops when Davan is struck down by Xi'an's throwing knife. 

   “Would you all just shut up,” Xi'an complains. 

   Suddenly, Xi'an starts coughing as she starts to choke. Everyone starts freaking out as Xi'an grabs onto her throat. Din looks at Jesla, whose cold eyes is staring daggers at Xi'an's choking form. He moves over to her, grabbing her forearm. “Jes, don't. You can kill her later,” he whispers to her. 

   Jesla looks at him, not missing the new nickname, as Xi'an finally gets her breath back. “What the hell was that?!” Xi'an shouts as she rubs her throat. Mayfeld and Burg exchange a look of what could only be described as fear. 

   “We have twenty minutes before backup gets here,” Jesla states, gesturing to the now blinking beacon. “I suggest we move now,” she mutters as she steps over Xi'an and heads towards cell 221. Din doesn't say anything as he starts following her, Xi'an looking after them with a glare.

   They reach cell 221 with fifteen minutes remaining. Mayfeld orders Zero to open the cell door. Once it opens, it reveals another Twi'leck. 

   “Qin,” Mando mumbles to himself. 

   “Funny. The man who left me behind is now my savour. Mando,” Qin greets as he walks out his cell, side-eyeing Jesla.

   Then, Burg punches Mando in the gut, catching him off guard, and throws him into the cell. Before Jesla could react, Xi'an roughly pushes her into the cell as well, which is locked before either Din or Jesla can get up. Mando fires his blaster at the door, but the shot just ricochets around the cell, Jesla ducking so it wouldn’t accidentally hit her.

   Jesla bangs the door in frustration, the group outside laughing as they walk away. “You've got to be kriffing kidding me!” She shouts in anger. “I can't catch a kriffing break! You should have just let me kill her. No, you should've listened to me when I said I had a bad feeling about this job!”

   Mando grabs Jesla's biceps roughly, making her look into his helmet's visor. “Hey! If you don't get a level head, we're not going to get out of here,” he tells her, his voice like stone. Jesla stays quiet for a couple moments before taking a deep breath. He was right.

   She looks back out the cell, seeing a security droid pass by. “I have a plan.”

                                              ∞∞∞

   Jesla and Mando end up getting out of the cell, and one by one put the others in it. Jesla got the satisfaction of being the one that locked Xi'an up. She salutes to Mayfeld as her and Mando walk off to find Qin. The two find him trying to climb up the ladder into the ship. They decide to keep him alive at the promise of more money. Jesla thought they definitely deserved it after all this mess. 

   They make their way into the ship, finding Zero pointing its rifle at the Child. Mando immediately shoots it and Zero falls to the ground. The Child coos when he sees the Mandalorian and Jesla.

   Later, Din lands the Razor Crest in Ran's hangar bay. Jesla and Din walk Qin down the ramp, Ran meeting Qin in an embrace. 

   Ran looks around them, noticing no one else exiting the Crest. “Where are the others?” Ran asks, furrowing his brow.

   “No questions asked. That's the policy, right?” Mando nonchalantly replies.

   Ran nods, eyeing both him and Jesla. “Yeah. That is the policy.”

   “We did the job.”

   “Yeah, you did.”

   Ran reluctantly tosses the Mandalorian a coin purse. “Just like the good old days,” Din says before turning to reenter the Razor Crest. Jesla winks at Ran and Qin before she follows Mando inside.

   As they start to fly away from the space station, three X-wings drop out of hyperspace. Jesla watches as they fly pass them, heading towards the station and opening fire on it.

   “You planted the tracking beacon on Qin... I'm impressed,” Jesla comments as she turns to face Mando, gently hitting his shoulder. She watches as he unscrews a knob from the lever and drops it into the Child's hands.

   Din glances over at her, getting ready to jump into hyperspace. “I told you that was a bad idea.”

××××××

@living-that-best-life

Tags are open!

[siimjaeyun]

Chapter 4: Attack of the Man Crab 

Synopsis: During the promotion festival of a new water brand, a crab man submerges from beneath the sand to take away any victim in its sight. But it makes a complete 360, when you're the one who disappears, and Jay, your twin brother, is forced into a mystery to bring you back. 

Series Masterlist

----- 

The night had settled in, and the young couple took their time setting up the nets onto the blank beach. 

“Can we go home already?” The girl rolled her eyes, and took a place on the bench nearby. 

“I promised WonderWater we would have it set up for the volleyball tournament.” 

“Fine, pass me some water.” The boy, trying to be as sweet as possible, handed her the bottle, but didn't have the reaction he planned for when she smacked it down. 

“I only drink WonderWater!” 

“You’re such a pain you know.” He turned back his attention on placing the last volleyballs inside the basket; it had to be perfectly tidy by tomorrow. In the meantime, nobody noticed the two pair of green eyes that emerged from the sand, and before long, a broad red crab pounced on the couple. With its left claw, it grasped the young girl making her cry out for help. 

“Haha very funny Jane. This is some sick trap huh.” He had no intentions to believe her, but once her body had fully been engulfed into the sand, he began to dig and found nothing. Soon, the crab resurfaced; he had claimed his second victim. 

------ 

“WonderWater! Get your gluten-free, fat-free, zero calorie WonderWater!” The mascot cheered out to the crowd, and meanwhile the teen mystery group had arrived at the volleyball tournament. 

“Let’s get some nachos before the game!” Sunoo led the way to Jack’s Shack, a local beach food store that served food in every variety. It took a few steps to arrive, seeing as though it had been moved to the other side of the beach. 

“Hey Jack!” 

“What I can do for y’all?” He kept his attention at the cone in front of him, passing it on to the customer who had been there a while ago. 

“The usual.” 

“Hey Jack, isn’t your shack usually where the courts are?”

“Blasted council moves my shop every time, every damn time.” With a tone of anger, he aggressively started chucking at the pineapple, cutting it into cubes and placing it inside the container. 

“Jungwon and I will head first to get some seats.” You grabbed Jungwon and dragged him over to the court, and the poor boy was confused by your sudden behaviour. Originally, you thought of explaining your lost heart confessions about Heeseung, but chose to stay quiet after a noticeable embarrassment. 

Eventually, the other five boys made their way to you; their hands full of snacks to keep their short attention spans busy while the girls volleyball team began. 

“Is that Jay?” You twisted your head forwards and saw him in the first row with the boy’s soccer team; he was proudly supporting the match, of course, probably for the pretty girls on the team. 

“Tsk, he’s probably only here because it’s the girl’s volleyball team.” 

Time elapsed, before a slow rumble began. The ground beneath you began to shake. 

“Is that an earthquake?” Sunghoon managed to get a hold of the pole aside from him before taking his friends with him. Prioritizing the younger members, he helped Jungwon and Sunoo get a hold first, before reaching out to Jake. 

Heeseung grabbed your shoulders, but managed to witness how the crab leaped from beneath. The whole beach was sent into a frenzy, and most had managed to run away. A young girl however was not as lucky. Her body was in the clutch of the crab’s claw, and it was swayed back and forth in a zigzag  pattern. 

The creature had now disappeared once more. 

------ 

“That was way too close.” You managed to hold yourself together as you stared at the younger duo bickering in front of the officer who questioned them over the incidents. 

“And they say we’re too immature.” Sunghoon managed a small scoff and took a glance at the row of gym like lockers under the red tent. A blue name tag stamped (JACK) stood out to him; it caught his eye. 

“Take a look.” Heeseung inspected the name tag, and when he attempted to open it, a pile of sand escaped from the locker and trailed onto the floor. 

“I mean Jack would have a good reason to attack.” 

“Come on, the only way to find out is to set a trap.” Heeseung gladly took the lead, managing to finally steal his friends away from the attention of the authorities. 

------ 

“Y/n, you’ll be the bait. I mean what's more perfect than a young girl!” 

“Finally, we won’t have to be the bait this time!” Jungwon jumped in delight and stuck his tongue out at you. 

“You’re lucky I love you guys.” While you went away into the van to place on the bathing suit you had brought with you earlier, the boys got to work on the trap. 

A large pot was placed smack in the middle, and a plunger attached to a spring was dug below. 

“Sunghoon and Jake will stay on lookout by those rocks over there.” He pointed the direction towards the two mounted boulders on the edge of the pier. 

“Jungwon, Sunoo, and I will be keeping an eye on Jack’s Shack.” 

Meantime, you continued to struggle with getting dressed, but eventually you were successful. As you checked to make sure the suit was properly tied, you once more noticed the white bracelet in your hand. Jake. 

You held it in your hand and walked onto the hot floor; it burned the soles of your feet. The bottle of sunscreen made its way to you, slathering your skin to avoid getting a slight sunburn. As you continued with your own thing, the same beady eyes popped over the sand, scanning your surroundings. It drew downward before springing onto you. 

The bottle slipped from your hands, and your feet carried you towards the trap. 

“Guys! The trap!” Sunghoon went forward to help you, but by mistake triggered the plunger below which sent him into the pot meant for the crab man. 

“Y/n!” Heeseung came out from his hiding regime, and tried to reach for you but it was too late. Your body was swallowed whole in the sand, and the only thing Heeseung managed was the continuous motion of scraping the sand. 

The white bracelet glistened under the sunlight; you were gone. 

------- 

“Heeseung..Heeseung...LEE HEESEUNG!” Sunoo’s continuous screams had no effect on the poor soul, his hands still attempting to dig at the floor beneath him. 

“I think he’s broken.” 

Jake kept his focus on the white bracelet in his hold; it was the last piece of you before the attack. 

“I called Jay, he’s on his way.” 

“This was my fault, if I hadn’t set off the trap.” RM gave them an apologetic look as he tried to comfort the other heartbroken boy who blamed himself. 

A small ring erupted out of nowhere, and Jungwon opened the door, believing that it was Jay who had arrived. Instead, an envelope with the letters JK welcomed him. 

He ripped the envelope open and dumped the belongings on the table; a piece of paper and a cassette tape were found. 

BREAKING NEWS: TEENS GO MISSING (2001) 

Below, was the photograph of the eight people who had disappeared. 

“Let me see this.” RM looked at the photograph, a stern look appeared on his way, but made sure to not show it to the young group in front of him. 

“Sunoo, play it.” 

“Hello young ones. As you can see, this isn’t the first time kids have disappeared from Seoul. I suggest you start looking.” 

Quiet glances took over the room, so when Jay had finally made himself welcome, he looked at the group oddly. 

“Uh...Jungwon called me earlier, what’s up.” No one dared to respond, semi-afraid of the latter’s response. 

“Y/n...sort of...kind of...got taken by the man crab from the attack at the tournament.” 

“Nice one Jungwon. Is this because I stole y/n’s phone the other day?” No one bothered to look him in the eyes; the reality soon settled into Jay’s mind. 

“How did this happen!?” His loud voice was almost as terrifying as the incident, but he sighed, cupping his face with his bare palms. 

“We’ll find her. We just need a place to look. Grab Heeseung, come on.” Sunghoon’s stern look led the team his way; not bothering to snap Heeseung out of his trance, he threw him over his shoulder. 

“Jay, you drive.” 

------- 

“So my sister is missing, and your response is to come to the school?” Clearly irritated, Jay stopped following the teens in front of him. He was desperate and tired; his sister was missing, how could he not be. 

“Look Jay, we get your urgency, she’s our friend too…” Sunoo took a long pause before declaring his next statement, “If there is anything that we have learned from these mysteries, is that you got to attend to every clue before, and you gotta listen to others.” 

They continued their way down the hall; the walls decorated in shelves with endless books and articles. 

“Where are we anyway?” Jake tried directing his light to all the corners of the room, but found everything to be covered in dust. 

“They call it the morgue. It’s where they keep all the archives of old articles.” Sunghoon pulled back the chair and got to work typing on the computer. Meanwhile, Heeseung took out one of the books, not caring much about the title. 

“Y/n read a book once...she sat in a chair...she liked sitting in chairs.” Five heads abruptly looked at him; He was losing his mind. 

“Not helping Heeseung.” Jay and Jake peered over Sunghoon’s shoulder to take a peek at his screen. 

“The article of the missing kids, I found it.” 

“On the night of twenty years ago, eight teens went missing from the Seoul Caverns. They were reported missing from their parents two hours before, but they vanished.” 

“Seoul Caverns? They’re the ones that run under the beach. Scroll down.” Jay took hold of the mouse, moving down and two new articles appearing. 

“Look it’s Mr.Wonder and James Lee, the day of the inauguration of Wonder Water.” 

“But look there, Jack threatening the town because of his business. It’s time stamped with the same day as the kids went missing.” Small glances were given to one another, and like that they made their way to the next destination. 

------ 

“You know, when they tell you teens have gone missing from the Seoul Caverns, it would usually be the last place you would take us, don’t you think?” Sunoo and Jungwon clinged onto one another, slowly following Jay who had also been pushed to the back. 

“Nothing seems out of place?” Jake continued to lead the group through the caverns, stopping every few feet to investigate the surroundings. 

“You ever think about how y/n has nice hair.” Heeseung continued to let out the occasional sigh, still walking like an empty zombie. 

“Heeseung! Guys!” You managed to hear the voices of people and immediately knew it was your friends to the rescue. 

“Sometimes I can still hear her voice.” 

“That is her voice!” Jay bolted first towards the direction of your screams, and was met with you inside a cage with a couple and a member from the girl’s volleyball team. 

“I’m so happy to see you guys!” You held your grip firm on the metal cage, slowly waiting as Sunoo managed to pick the lock and open it. Since the cage was dangling from the top, you crashed onto the ground. 

“Y/n! You’re alright!” You gave the boys a smile; they clearly needed reassurement after having to stand Heeseung experiencing a life crisis. 

“Here. You’re probably cold.” Jake extended his hand to give you his white hoody; taking it, you placed it over your body and responded with a “thank you.” 

“Look what else I found!” Heeseung looked up and down with his eyes at the large wooden ramps connected to form an entrance to the beach. 

“What kind of crab monster needs a bunch of ramps?” 

“No crab man, I’ll tell you that.” As they thought of a plan to make their way out of the caverns, the crab man escaped from his hiding place, chasing them once more. Heeseung held your hand and brought you with him in the opposite direction as it was persistent on your trail. Jay led the younger members to the right, trying to find a way out. Meanwhile, Sunghoon and Jake directed towards the wooden ramps. 

The crab man retook his grasp on your waist pulling you backwards. 

“Get off her!”Heeseung made an attempt to give it a blow in the claw, and luckily Jay came to help. 

“Push!” Jay and Heeseung each took one claw and managed to remove his firm grip. 

“Hey ugly, over here!” Sunghoon and Jake frantically waved their hands in the air, trying to lure the monster into their direction. They were successful. The two sprinted with all their might up the platforms to the beach, trying to avoid the crab who was using its claws to break through the floorboards. 

“Come on, this way.”  The rest of you hurriedly made your way out of the caverns, looking to help the two boys being chased. 

“Jake the trap!” Sunghoon went first and they both ran to the opposite side, causing the crab to collapse on the plunger, and finally captured inside the pot. 

------- 

“Finally, you can’t escape anymore Jack!” 

“Huh, what did I miss.” Jack, the owner of the food shack stepped out behind you. 

“Then who?” 

Sunghoon skipped towards the crab, and pulled the mask off of it. 

“Meet James Lee. The mascot of WonderWater. I recognized the pattern of his freckles earlier in the article.” 

“That’s right. WonderWater was MY creation! Mine! But Mr.Wonder stole my idea and with my engineering degree, I managed to construct the suit. If anyone came looking, everyone would have the right reasons to suspect Jack. And I would have gotten away with it too, if it wasn’t for you meddling consumers!” 

Chief Kim did the usual, and placed the handcuffs on his wrists. 

“Come on, let’s go to RM’s Studio!” You wrapped your arm with Jay and led the way. 

------- 

“So Heeseung, everyone told me how much paranoia you were in earlier.” You moved your two feet slightly waiting for a response. 

“Yeah, but don’t worry. It’s the last time I’ll have feelings. Trust me.” Heeseung fled the conversation and entertained himself with the drumset. 

“Y/n, you dropped this.” Jake plopped the white bracelet into your hold and left immediately as well. 

“Is there anything else I missed? Well, besides Jay surprisingly joining you guys on a mystery.” Jay stopped mid mouthful as he was happily indulging in some snacks with Jungwon and Sunoo. 

“JK dropped this off earlier.” Sunghoon handed you the same newspaper from earlier, and you gasped at seeing the front cover. 

“What is it?” 

“You know that locket I found in the caves, it’s them.” You compared the couple in the locket to two of the faces of the picture; they were the same. 

“Guess JK is right. There is a deeper mystery.” The conversation quickly became muffled as RM shut off the hearing button from his recording studio. It was becoming worrisome and with a blank expression, he stared off. 

Some things are not ready to be exposed. 

------ 

Next: Chapter 5: “Mystery song” 

[bettyxinez]

Nothing Left To Give

chapter four • smile

Kat didn't mention her DID until two weeks after that, and Malcolm found himself thinking about her more then he probably should have.

And Kat knew it too. They had been getting closer and closer and she could tell how curious he was. Over the span of the 7 weeks they had become friends, and Kat was confident in saying he was one of the closest friends she ever had, so much so that even some of the Others wanted to meet him.

Driving each other to and from the precinct was becoming a regular occurrence, and he slowly revealed more and more about his past, opening up to her much quicker then she was to him.

"So thats what you're trying to figure out? If the girl in the box is real and who she is?"

"Yeah. Funnily enough, trying to solve a murder where the only evidence is unreliable memories is kind of...hard."

"I understand that. Not the murder part, but everything else."

His curiosity had been temporarily put on the back burner while he told her his story, but now it was at the forefront of his mind.

She noticed almost immediately. She kind of felt bad about it, and was planning on telling him when the time was right.

The time never seemed right.

And when it did, she couldn't bring herself to talk about it. So she eventually just waited for him to bring it up.

He was in her apartment again, looking at some of the pictures on her wall and laughing as she told stories of the people in them.

He noticed quickly that none of them were members of her family.

"What about your family?" He asked, before he even realized the can of worms he might have opened by doing so.

She tensed immediately, turning to look at him.

"We don't... talk."

Malcolm looks up at her, noticing for the first time that she was taller then him.

"Do you mind if I ask why?"

She sits down on her couch, tucking her feet underneath her. Malcolm sat next to her.

"They didn't believe me when I told them what was... happening... to me."

His breath hitched. His mind reeling from the possibilities of what that meant. He supposed that he could ask. They had gotten a lot closer, and if she didn't want to talk about it, he could wait longer. No problem.

"And... what was happening to you?"

She looked away from him, eyes widening for a split second, and then she slowly took a deep breath.

This was it. He had asked, and she didn't know if she was ready.

She could dive head first into telling him and risk freezing in the fridgid water, or stay safe and dry, but risk putting a wall between her and Malcolm.

She decided to just take the plunge.

"...bad things." She whispered. And even just thinking about it, her brain was assaulted with memories, and she already felt herself slipping.

"Bad, bad things...hurt... it hurt."

She screwed her eyes shut, fists clenching. Her nails dig into her palms and she sucks in a breath.

Malcolm watched, letting her set the pace, but his brows were furrowed in concern. He knelt down in front of her and offered his hands. She took them with a crushing grip.

"...hold on... someone..." her breath hitched.

"Someone's here. Sorry." Malcolm watched in both worry and fascination.

"Its... okay. Take your time." He responded.

He knew what was happening. She was doing what she had told him was "switching". One of her alters was coming. He was very curious, but he was also fearful as to what would happen next.

Would he ruin everything? He hoped not.

Kats eyes unfocused for a second, and then she stopped.

She looked up, eyes blinking.

She continued staring for a second and looks around.

When he heard her voice, he didn't know what to think.

"...I was told to not like... pretend to be Kat."

Malcolms eyes widen, and hes taken aback. Her voice sounds so different. A touch lower, and with a strong Essex accent, her words somehow a mix of dramatic and lazy sounding.

"Uh... yeah. Who is this?"

"Has she told ya any of our names?"

"...No. But I've never asked. Wanted to go at her own pace."

Kat-whoever- nods at that, looking down at their clothes.

"What the fuck is this? Kat I told ya not to dress us in a skirt!"

He looks at the person in front of him.

"You don't like skirts?"

"Nah. Its not my style. I'm Haven. Primary protector and ex-prosecutor. Basically means I didn't used to be a great person. I'll explain more later if I feel like it. Its my job to protect us, and my job to judge whether someone is safe. You seem to be okay for now."

He was at a loss for words. He was given almost zero warning, however he assumed that she wasn't either.

"So what 'ave you said to set 'er off then?" She said, glaring. It was so weird, he thought, how her entire demeanor has changed. Man or woman. Or whatever. He didn't even know.

The glare on her face looked so unnatural, like it didn't belong there.

"We sort of got onto the topic of her past. And then... you came out." He said.

"Sorry, who exactly are you? You specifically. Not just your role." He said, confused and cautious as to where to go from here.

"Are you askin' what I look like?" She responded, the way she holds herself that of a completely different person.

"Maybe. Or just who you are. What you like and dislike, your interests."

She stares at him, tilting her head.

"Well for one thing, my skin is a bit darker then this, Kat is atrociously pale. I've got short, curly black hair and freckles."

He tries to imagine it, but its hard. He's looking at what he knew as Kat, but now, she's someone different.

Haven continued talking.

"I've got sort of big eyes. Small nose. Thick eyebrows. Big-ish lips. I look like I'm mixed race, but I don't like to think of myself as that because I will never relate to the struggles of being black and I will never be fully emersed in the culture. The body is Korean, and I don't think it's appropriate to be say that I'm mixed race because my actual real life body is not."

Malcolm nods. He could understand that.

So Haven, he noted, was a rambler.

"Im an integrated alter. I used to be three people. I have the memories of three different people and I remember them all separately. I have access to all the memories and trauma, so don't fuck with me." She says the last bit with a bit of sadness and anger.

Haven was really closed off, he thought. She looked at him with a fierceness he couldn't describe, and soon, he found himself noticing all the differences between them. The more she talked, the more she became her own person to him.

"I have just a few things to say to you before I go back inside-"

"Inside where?" Malcolm asked, cutting her off, suddenly very confused. More then he already was.

"Back to inner world. We have a whole world inside our head. We all live in an apartment building. Well not all. We have a cave, a pool, a forest, other stuff. When we're fronting, we're sitting in the lobby. I sound insane when I say that, but its true."

She shrugged.

Shes right, he thought.

It did sound insane.

And if he didn't already know a bit about the disorder, he would have called her out.

And some would say the same about his mental health problems.

So he believed her.

"So... you protect Kat?"

"Yes. And everyone else. Its my job. I was the first one made, the first one to take it instead of her."

His brows furrowed at that.

"What does that mean?"

She looks up at him.

"It means that when fucked up shit was happening to us I took her place so she didn't have to deal with it."

He thought about that. Fucked up shit? Like what? Did it have to do with his father? He shuddered at that thought.

It had taken him almost every ounce of willpower to not ask Kat about it, but he figured could ask Haven. So he did.

"Does the name Martin Whitly ring a bell?"

She stood up then, and dragged him up by the collar of his shirt, eyes intense and angry.

"How do you know that name?" She asked through gritted teeth, voice low.

Struck a nerve, then.

"He-He's my father." He said. Her eyes widened and she threw him onto the couch.

"Have you seen him recently? Don't lie to me I swear to God I will know."

He was taken aback. Things had taken a 180 faster then he could even process what was happening.

Struck a big nerve, then.

He could tell the truth, but what if it ruined their friendship?

Or he could lie, but she said she will know. That would probably ruin their friendship even more...

Before he can even stop himself:

"Yes."

She sits down then, eyes clenching.

"You have to take me to him."

He stands up, fists clenching.

"No. Absolutely not." He couldn't let his father ruin their friendship. He wouldn't let him.

"Either you take me to him or I go myself."

"You can't."

"I'll find a way." Her eyes glinting in determination. He suddenly got the feeling that she wasn't joking.

He took in a shuddery breath, hands shaking.

"Fine."

_______________________________________

Haha no proofreading here we die like Eve.

Like and comment yall. These chapters take a while to write and always have between 1,400-1,900 words and I would really appreciate it if this story spread a bit.

Thx yall.

[bentnotbroken1fanfiction]

One-shot response to @carito-dorito ’s prompt:

Steve meets Billy’s mom at his grave and they bond as they talk about him

It’s sunny and hot in Hawkins, not a cloud in the sky. A beautiful day if there ever was one. Everyone is probably soaking it up, enjoying it while it lasts.

Everyone except Steve, that is.

Steve wishes it was raining, that it was thundering, lightening around him.

Because it's painful, and unfair that the outside world doesn’t match the hollowed out one that’s inside of him.

Why should it be warm and bright and wonderful when something so cold and dark and ugly has made itself at home in his chest?

He doesn't want to feel this way, but he’s resigned. He knows it’s going to hurt, that it’s going to feel like he’s missing a limb.

Because he lost his person.

He lost him, and no one even knew that they’d been together. No one knew that he woke up every morning with a broken heart and cried himself to sleep every night. No one knew that he drove across town every time the pain got to be too much to sit on a patch of new grass and cry.

Well, Max knows. She knows everything. The whole story. The beginning until the end. But he refuses to lean on her, or drag her out here every time he wants to go. It’s the second time this week that he’s here, walking through the cemetery. He’s here so much the caretaker knows him by name now.

No. This is something he does alone.

Like everything else.

When he gets closer to his row, his breath hitches. And for a moment he thinks he’s seeing things, a ghost maybe, or a mirage, because his eyes have zeroed in on a figure standing in front of the headstone, back turned to him. A figure in faded blue jeans and a head full of blonde curly hair.

The same as his.

But no. He knows it’s not him. He's gone. He's been gone for over a month. And they are shorter than he’d been, and upon further inspection, it’s definitely the figure of a woman.

He moves.

He wants to know who this person is, who’s leaving something on his grave. Steve knows everyone that comes here.

Ha. Everyone.

Meaning him and Max.

His dad hasn’t been back since they laid him in the ground, since he stood up in front of everyone and talked about how much he loved him. How proud he was of him. How sorry he was that this happened.

Yeah. Sure. He's sorry.

Maybe sorry that it hadn’t been him that did it.

Steve tries not to think about Neil. When he does, rage consumes him, and he does stupid things. Like keying his truck. Or popping one of the tires. Or trying to punch him in the middle of the supermarket.

It’s just… it's bad.

So he stops thinking about that asshole and focuses again on finding out who this is. He walks until he is standing beside her, and when she turns around it feels like all the air has been sucked out of his lungs.

Because it should be impossible, but Steve is staring into his eyes. And that's his mouth. His golden hair.

This woman…who is standing here alone, crying over his grave… it can't be? But…

“Are you his mom?”

She startles a bit at the sound of his voice, but gives him a calculated look, as if she’s sizing him up.

And God, that is the same too.

“Are you his friend?” She finally asks.

Friend. “Something like that, yeah.”

She nods like she knows what that means, and turns back to the headstone. “He didn’t even tell me.” She says, and her voice is angry, bitter, “Our son… my child, died and he didn't tell me.”

Steve knows she means Neil, and he doesn’t know why she is telling him this, but it doesn’t really matter. He’ll listen. Because this is his mom, and he had loved her. He would have wanted Steve to stay. 

So he does.

“He took him from me.” She cries, and furiously wipes tears from her eyes. Steve feels his stomach drop. “Neil didn’t even want him. He just did it to punish me for leaving.” She looks over her shoulder. “He probably never even knew that, did he? That I wasn’t allowed to see him?”

He shakes his head, because he hadn’t. He’d told Steve that she left and didn’t take him. That’s it. “No.”

She makes a sound that he thinks is supposed to be a laugh. “It figures. He probably told him I abandoned him. Made him believe that I didn’t want him, but I do. More than anything. I tried to get him back. I tried so hard, but that bastard blocked me at every turn.”

“The law wasn’t on my side. I was nothing. A waitress living out of a motel. He had a house. A good job Money. It didn’t matter to them that he…” She pauses, “it just didn't matter to them.”

It’s quiet for a moment, and he can hear her sniffling. “I was nothing." She says eventually, "But I loved him. It should have been enough.” Then her legs give out and she’s kneeling, shaky fingers tracing the engraved letters of his name.

“He was almost eighteen. Neil wouldn’t have been able to stop me from seeing him anymore. So I was waiting. I was waiting.” Her shoulders shake and Steve can feel the heat behind his eyes. “And while I was waiting, my baby boy died." She chokes on a sob. ”And I didn’t even know.“

He doesn’t try to stop the tears from falling. His chest feels like it’s breaking open. Feels like he’s losing him all over again, and he places his hand on her shoulder. He wants to say it’s just to comfort her, but it’s not. It’s to anchor him too.

He wants to scream at the sky, the stupid beautiful, clear blue sky, because it shouldn’t be him standing here consoling this beautiful broken woman. She shouldn’t have to have a need to be consoled. She should be smiling and hugging her son, not crying over his grave.

"He was stolen from me. The life we could have had was stolen from us. If Neil would have just…let me have him, maybe he’d still be alive. Maybe he wouldn’t have died thinking…thinking that I didn't… that I didn't love him.”

“He knew.” Steve says softly, crouching down beside her. “He may have thought you left, but he always knew you loved him.”

She just sobs harder and Steve wraps his arms around her, hugs her tightly, holds her like he knows he would have. And shit, his chest aches.

And he keeps holding her until his limbs are numb, until she’s pats his back and pulls away. He sits down right where he is and listens to her taking deep breaths. He takes a few too.

“Was he happy?” She asks when the crying subsides. It sounds more like a plea to Steve’s ears.

“He was when he was with me.” He answers, hoping he’s making the right call by telling her this. He keeps Neil’s bullshit to himself.

She hums, thoughtful. “You loved him didn’t you?”

“Yes.” His throat tightens and his emotions threaten to spill out, because she doesn’t sound angry. Would she have approved of them? There’s only one way to find out. “And he…he never said it, but I could tell that he.. that he loved me too.”

“Only his sister Max knew about us. People here…they …they’re not so open minded. And that was the hardest part. I had to… I had to stand there and pretend that we were nothing to each other. I had to pretend that he didn’t take a part of me with him when he… I had to hold myself together and stuff down the urge to sob because it would have looked strange. It would have tipped off Neil, and I didn’t want to end up decking him at his sons funeral.”

He sighs. “Maybe I should have. Maybe it would have made me feel better. Maybe it would have made everyone feel better. He’s a fucking dick. But you already know that. More than any of us.”

“Yes. I do.”

He rubs at his eyes. “He’s just…he was more upset that Max was at the mall, than finding out…and I was…I was there when it happened. Me and Max. We saw it and we couldn't do anything. We were helpless. And we climbed out of the wreckage of that lobby broken and traumatized, and the only thing he does is yell at her when he finally shows up. What the fuck is wrong with him?”

“A lot.” She replies.

He snorts in agreement before blurting out, “I keyed his truck. After the funeral.”

She looks a little surprised. “You keyed his truck?”

“Yeah. I just. I hate him. Like really really hate him,” God what an understatement. “and it was the easiest passive way to say fuck you.”

“I think I like you-” She stops and tilts her head, “Oh, what’s your name, hun?”

“Steve.”

“I think I like you, Steve. "She extends her hand to him and he takes it. "I’m Amelia.”

Her hand is small in his, “It’s nice to meet you.” He says honestly. “I just wish it was under different circumstances.”

Her mouth turns down and he knows she’s barely holding it together. “Yeah. Me too.”

They sit in a sad yet comfortable silence for a long time, until she abruptly stands up and brushes off her pants.

He shields his eyes from the sun as he looks up at her. “You’re leaving?”

She gives him a slight smile. “You came to be alone with him. I can come back later.”

“At least let me walk you back to your car.”

She agrees so he gets up.

“You staying here in town?” He asks, as they head back to where they’re parked.

She nods, “At least for a couple of days. I’m at the Motel 6 off the highway.”

“Well, I have…Max snuck me some of his stuff.” He tells her. He’s been thinking about this for awhile. He thinks it’s the right thing to do. “You can come look through them if you want? Take something back with you.” He can’t keep them to himself, not anymore, not after meeting her. “And I have pictures. You probably don’t have recent ones, right? You can have some of those too.”

She looks like she’s going to burst out in tears again. “That would be…thank you.”

He swallows the lump in his throat. “He’d want you to have something.”

“You’re a good boy, Steve. I’m glad my son had someone like you here.”

He can’t find the words to respond to that so he just gives her a tight smile and his number before he watching her leave between the iron gates.

Only then does he return.

But he doesn’t sit when he gets there, just stands with the sun beating down on the back of his neck as he stares at the name that shouldn’t be there.

“I met your mom.” He tells the silent granite. “And El was right, Billy.” He blinks back tears. “She’s really pretty.”

[linkispink1995]

Better as friends (23) the facade crashes

Previously

Series Masterlist

Chapter warnings:language,drunkenness and Alison

~~~~~~~~~

Steve's p.o.v

It had been a few weeks since Y/n and I's conversation and it also happened to be the last time Y/n and I spoke since whenever she'd drop Jackson off and pick hi up she'd be really quiet. I was starting to worry that it was maybe my fault , I knew that I shouldn't have asked her that but Alison being Alison continuously asked me that. Speaking of Alison she was now at the 5 month mark and by this time Y/n had a bump and an attitude and Jackson would move around and kick to the sound of voices but Alison so far had no bump unless she did and was just hiding it very well and never ever wanted to talk about the baby or her doctor's appointment. I felt like I was being so let in the dark with Y/n I'd roll my eyes and shrug the things off that she'd tell me and I definitely feel like this was payback. I couldn't belive it , I was scared I was missing thing or that some things just didn't add up , I was currently sitting at my cubicle at work stairing at the clock counting till I could go home. Alison wouldn't be home till late because it was her cousins bachelorette party and she'd be having to drive them since she couldn't be drinking anymore , except for her small glass of wine at night which I still wasn't sure to believe that or not. I had almost fallen asleep in my desk for the third time today when there was a phone call , I sighed before picking the phone up and answering "Hello this is Harrington-" I was cut off by a voice saying. "Yeah whatever listen we need to talk" it was my sister Polly , I sighed saying "I'm not talking to you" before I could hang up she added. "Are you dating Alison Martin" I sighed again saying "why" she responded saying "answer the question" I huffed saying "yeah I am why" Polly was silent before finally saying "do you remember when I was a junior and they put me in a dorm with a freshman" I rolled my eyes as she added. "Now do you remember how I said she was this rich and entitled mean girl who was always out partying and lied like a rug" I answered saying "yeah I remember you nagging about it" she responded saying "it was Alison". I rolled my eyes saying "Polly this is just sad okay stop calling" before she could respond I hung up the phone.

After the ridiculous phone call with Polly I came home to a dark and empty apartment I knew Alison was still out but usually she'd leave a light on. I entered the kitchen to grad a drink out of the fridge when I noticed a small take out box from some restaurant I didn't recognized maybe Alison went out to lunch but when I knew she had classes and a doctor's appointment. I shrugged that off before exiting the kitchen only to be stopped by a shopping bag in the trash and with closer examination I saw that a movie ticket stub was tucked in the bag. Again I brushed it aside thinking it was just paranoia that had been amplified by my phone call with Polly , after a shower and putting on warm close even though it was june the apartment was ice cold per Alison's request and I knew that when Y/n was pregnant that the word no wasn't one she liked . After settling on the couch I sat there before see there was a star wars marathon on tv , as the movie began to play I couldn't help but feel somewhat grateful that Alison wasn't home since I knew by now she'd turn the tv of and give me the speech about it rotting my brain or her speech about how nothing in star wars actually made sense. About half way through the empire strikes back I got up from my seat to open the cabinet above the fridge were I store (hid) away my junk food from Alison since shortly into are relationship she disposed all of mine and insisted from then on out she'd do the grocery shopping.

I awoke to the sound of the front door opening and practically slamming , I sat up to see the ending seen of return of the jedi was playing. I wiped some of the chip crumbs off of myself before hearing noise come from the kitchen , I entered to see Alison standing by the kitchen sink with a glass of water in hand. She was silent except for the small sounds of hiccups coming from her , I spoke saying "are you okay" she ignored me and instead began walking or should I say somewhat stumbling out of the kitchen before she finally spoke to me saying. "Goodnight" alchohol I smelt alcohol on her breath so strong I could almost taste it , I felt nauseous like my whole world had crashed down before I spoke saying "you lied to me" she turned before busting out into a strong laughter before she walked towards me with her finger placed on her mouth saying. "Shhhhh you can't tell Steve okay , it's a secret" she was so drunk she couldn't tell it was me I knew I had to confront her but I wanted to know what the secret was so I asked. "I won't tell him" she responded saying "I'm not pregnant" my heart fell as I began to feel nauseous before she added. "I don't know why I said it It just sorta fell out , but he believed it and I'm so screwed i have no clue what I'm gonna do". I felt my legs become uneasy at her confession as she continued "and I mean I just feel so bad you know he's a really nice guy he deserves someone who doesn't lie to him , he deserves someone who writes him these letters. You know he had someone like that , he had Y/n and you know what after all the stuff he's said to her Y/n still comes back just for that kid. Let me tell you something okay when I was his age my dad left and do you know when , he left on Christmas eve." My face fell in shock before saying "but Steve meet your dad" she chuckled again before saying "who Robert , Robert's my stepfather he's the only decent person in that family. My sister's a nightmare and I won't even get started on my mother , listen I'm tried I'm gonna to bed and don't tell Steve about are little talk." I ignored her words before as she entered the bedroom I didn't know what to do my instinct was to kick her out but I wasn't doing that to someone blackout drunk so instead I sat at the dinning room table to think until I knew I needed to talk to someone. It couldn't be Y/n because it was two thirty in the morning and God only knows what she'd be doing with Stewart. It couldn't be Robin since she left a few days ago to visit Helen up at school , Matt and Collen were definitely a no. I was blanking totally blanking until I knew the one person would wouldn't take my crap and would tell me how it is which is exactly what I needed right now.

I pulled into the parking lot of the hospital before walking in , I walked in before getting to the receptionist saying. "Hi I'm looking for Paige Walker" she nodded before I heard a voice say "Steve" I turned to see Paige in her scrubs before I said "can I talk to you". She huffed before saying "fine" after walking down a hallway to sit on a bench Paige spoke saying "whatever nonsense this is I will take Y/n's side cause you-" I cut her off saying "Alison is lying a being pregnant". Paige's face fell saying "oh Steve I'm sorry" I shrugged saying "whatever it's payback from how I've treated Y/n". She responded saying "you know you might've been a jerk and I'm just saying that word cause I'm at work right now but you never treated Y/n horribly when she was pregnant I mean you stayed there and-" I cut her off again saying "Paige did Y/n tell you I was there when Jackson was born". She nodded before I added "God she really is a good person I mean she must've told you the story she's told Jackson". Paige's face feel in shock before I added "I wasn't there when he was born , I wasn't there when my son took his first breath or opened his eyes for the first time , do you know how long it took for me to realize my son's eyes are brown". She frowned saying "oh my god she protected you from the group cause she knew we'd be mad" I nodded as she added "so why didn't you go to Y/n , why here". I sighed saying "didn't wanna bump into Stewart" she shrugged saying "why would you run into Stewart he's in Florida and they broke up you know that right" . I shook my head as she added "yeah it was mutual I guess" I frowned thinking that was what had Y/n so down these past couple week , why she was so quiet. I spoke again saying "thanks Paige" she nodded saying "sorry I didn't invite you to my wedding" I shook my head saying "don't be it's okay". Paige and sat there in silence before I added "and I really miss hanging out with you guys so-" this time I was cut of by Paige saying "make things right with Y/n and you can hang out with us" I nodded before saying "your right I know exactly what I have to do"

The following morning

It was the next morning and I was running on zero sleep except for that small nap I had during the movies last night. I was sitting at the dinning room table ready to talk to Alison like an adult , as soon as I got home from the hospital I took a seat exactly where I was and rehearsed exactly what I was going to say. My a millionth rehearsal was interrupted saying "don't worry I can hold my own hair up when I'm sick" I ignored her words as she entered the dinning room saying "what". I responded saying "you

Iied to me , to me the person who chooses your side over my own sons , the person who turned his back on his family for you the person who was actually excited to have a baby with you , but it isn't true. You lied to me Alison" she scoffed saying "I don't know what your talking about" I sighed saying "you know what drunk Alison just tells people how it is your not pregnant are you". She had a blank expression before she spoke saying "no I'm not I-" Alison stopped she completely blanked on words before I decided to ask another question. "Did you ever have a roommate named Polly Harrington" she silently added before I continued with my questions. "Did you steal the letter for Y/n , the letter meant for me , did you take it and did you read it". She silently nodded as I added "you know I didn't read it right" she scoffed saying "oh please you had that in your pocket and you don't want me to believe you didn't read it". I rolled my eyes before pulling a sheet of paper out of my pocket saying "you mean this" she nodded as I added "this is something I wrote for Y/n what did you think it was". She responded with "That's it Steve I can't take this anymore" I huffed saying "are you kidding me your upset .She rolled her eyes at my words saying "you Steve I'm upset with you" I huffed again saying "me what did I do , you faked a pregnancy and it doesn't just hurt me it hurts Jackson-" she cut me off saying. "That's it , it's all about the kid" I sighed saying "he's my son what do you want me to do". She then crossed her arms saying "choose" I shrugged in confusion as she added "it's either me or the kid , choose" I couldn't belive it , she sounded like I did when Y/n and I broke up and I then remembered what my mother said "sometimes we need to see someone make the same mistake to know that's what they were". That's when I knew the answer to Alison's question was "Jackson , Jackson Michael Harrington will come before anyone including myself and if you don't like it that's just to damn bad". Alison frowned saying "but I'm your girlfriend" I nodded as she added "and I love you" I nodded again saying "I know but-". She cut me off saying "no buts Steven I'm your-" it was my turn to cut her off saying "Steve my name is Steve not Steven okay" she huffed saying "I love you" I nodded before saying the words that were wanting to oze out of me , "and I love Y/n", her face then twisted into anger saying "excuse me" I nodded saying "I love Y/n" she then sighed saying "but-" I cut her off again saying. "Alison your a horrible person , you attacked Y/n several times , you turned me against my parents and my best friends but not only that you tried to get in between my son and I oh and am I forgetting something else yeah you pretended to be pregnant" before she could say anything else I added "we're done Alison".

Please don't plagiarize my work , stay safe and feedback is appreciated - thanks Meg

Taglist @disneyprincessbuffyannesummers @queenofthehairharrington @charmed-asylum

[motleyfuckingcruee]

Rocket Queen

0.3: New Friends

Henley's P.O.V

I grin as we get into the dingy bar. Sasha let us in this time. She said that Sebastian had the night off so she was stuck doing the bartending. To me, that made no sense. Colin could easily do the bartending on his own. A lot of the people that come to this bar order the simplest things. Hardly ever any mixed drinks. Mostly just beers and vodka. I prefer to stick to Jack.

Madeline giggles as she pulls me out to our usual table. For some reason no one ever takes this table. Not once in the past few months that we've been coming here has anyone sat there. That is, until tonight.

My eyes widen as I spot two blondes sitting at our table. Madeline gasps in an over dramatic way, but I ignore her to keep myself from laughing. Getting a closer look at them, I realize they're two grown men. They're both very attractive and can't be much older than us. One has fluffy blonde hair and the other has teased blonde hair with an odd brown patch in it.

"I'm gonna go teach those guys a lesson!" Madeline exclaims. She takes a step closer, then stops. "Wait a minute."

"What," I laugh, wanting to see how this pans out. I love the girl but damn can she be dramatic.

"They're hot," She says. "Oh my God! The one with the fluffy hair is extra hot." She wraps her arm around my shoulders, pulling me closer. Honestly, you'd think she'd already been drinking. "The other one is just your type."

I push her off, rubbing my ear. "Why the hell did you whisper like that?" She just shrugs in response, fixing her top to show off more cleavage. I grab her wrist as she takes a step towards the men. "Don't go over there! We can easily find another table."

Madeline sighs. "Look. This is a one time chance! And we can finally get you laid."

I roll my eyes. I guess I'm not winning this argument. "Not everything is about getting laid, y'know."

Madeline opens her mouth to respond, but a deeper voice sounds from behind her. "It may not be everything, but it sure as hell is fun."

I look back towards the table to see the fluffy blonde gone. His friend sits there, looking at me strangely. I just blush and turn back to the guy.

"So why're two lovely ladies like yourself hangin' 'round our table?" He asks.

Madeline scoffs. "Actually it's our table. We're just letting you use it."

I half expect the blonde to get a bit mad, but he doesn't. He laughs wrapping his arms around Madeline and I's shoulders. "Well, why don't you join us if it's your table. We'd hate to leave you without a table as special as this one."

"Don't be a smart ass," Madeline says. I know she's enjoying the attention she's getting from this dude. It's obvious by the way she's looking at him. I know that smirk is reserved for when she likes someone.

I move away from the guy, causing his arm to fall. He looks over at me. "We'll hang with you guys as long as you keep your hands to yourselves."

"Speak for yourself," Madeline giggles.

I sigh. "Alright, I'll stay as long as you guys don't touch me."

"It's gonna be a party tonight!" He exclaims, looking really excited. "I'm Steven by the way."

"Madeline," Madeline says, wrapping an arm around his waist.

"I'm Henley," I say almost too quietly.

Steven grins down at me. "You're really quiet."

I just shrug, settling in beside the other blonde. He smiles at me, but I just turn my head to look towards the entrance. I'm hoping that tonight my friend will come in. I haven't seen him for a while at it makes me sad. He genuinely brings me joy. He's probably the best substitute for Tommy. After all, they act a lot alike.

I feel a tap on my shoulder. I try my best to hold back my audible groan. I just got here and I already want to leave. How sad is that?

I turn my head to see the blonde smiling at me. I try my best to return the smile, but I guess it didn't reach my eyes. I hope he's not taking offense to me acting the way I am. I'm not meaning to be rude, it's just that my heart isn't in it tonight. I guess I'm just getting homesick for L.A after that phone call with Athena.

"I'm Duff," He finally says, holding his hand out for my to shake it.

I need to be at least a little bit nice. "I'm Henley."

He grins at me wider. I guess he's happy that I finally spoke to him. "That's a pretty name."

I smirk. "I guess Duff is a pretty name too."

He laughs, taking a swig from what looks to be vodka. "It's a nickname."

"Then what's your real name?"

"Michael."

I nod my head, looking him over. His eyes are this pretty color hazel and his smile is really cute. He dresses a lot like how Tommy does when he's not in his outrageous stage clothes. He has zero makeup on his face which makes me happy. I've been around too many guys that wear eyeliner and lipstick just to be more "rock n roll". I'm pretty sure they're getting the different genres of rock confused. They're more glam rock than anything. Although, I think they're just trying to look like Nikki Sixx. I may not have a crush on the dude, but he is one sexy motherfucker.

"Duff suits you better," I respond, glancing back towards the entrance.

"Waiting for someone?" Duff asks, looking in the direction I am.

I sigh. "Not really. It's really just hit or miss if he comes tonight. We didn't talk about meeting up or anything."

I didn't get to talk to him at all at school today. We kinda avoid each other when we're outside of the bar. I guess we just don't fit in together.

Duff smiles. "Maybe I can replace him tonight."

"Maybe," I grin.

Okay, so this guy wasn't that bad. He's pretty sweet. At least that's what I'm getting from talking to him the past five minutes.

"So," Duff says, taking a drink of his Russian Water. "What do you and this guy usually do?"

"Well, me and Hyde-."

"Hyde?"

I giggle. "It's his last name." I take the vodka from Duff and drink some. I'm gonna need some liquid encouragement before I say this. I ignore the burning sensation in my throat and smile at Duff. "We usually fuck." That's definitely not true. But his reaction is priceless.

Duff nearly spits out the Jack he stole from Steven. "I didn't expect that," He coughs out. I laugh, watching him. "How old are you?"

"Sixteen," I respond, smiling at him.

He laughs. "I didn't expect that from you."

"And how old are you since we're talking ages here?"

"Nineteen."

I scoff. "You're only three years older than me."

"Yeah, but-."

"When did you lose your virginity, Duff?"

"Uh. . .," He trails off, not sure how to respond.

I giggle, loving how easily I made him stumble on his words.

I turn my head to see if Sasha or Colin is at the bar so that I can grab Duff and I another bottle of vodka when I see Hyde walk in.

I instantly spot his brown curly hair and sunglasses that he wears all the time. Trailing behind him is some beautiful blonde. I feel my smile drop as they come closer. I don't think Hyde realizes I'm sitting right here. Hyde looks back at the blonde and kisses her. I feel a twang of jealousy shoot through me. I'm not gonna lie. I really liked him. I guess I never really had a chance.

"Henley?" Duff nearly yells to grab my attention.

I turn my head towards Duff, trying to stop the tears from falling.

"What's the matter?" He asks.

Just as I'm about to respond, a familiar voice sounds from next to me.

"Henley?"

I look over to see Hyde and his new 'girl' standing beside the table.

Great. This is exactly what I fucking wanted to happen tonight.

TAGS:

All fics: @the--blackdahlia @sugar-content @sharon6713 @siliwanoel @charlyallise @lo-bells @lauravic @livingdeadharley @kawennote09 @ozzypawsbone-princeofbarkness @hllywdwhre @abbysdogcollar @nikkisixxwiththebass @waywardprincess666 @tommyleeownsme  

@rock-n-roll-soul-frankie @unholy-brat @eak1996 @madsthegroupie @sinningsixx @kissyourrosegoodbyemotley

Duff: @daisystuffsstuff

[randomlifeunit]

Paralyzed

Chapter 17

Rated: Teen and up

Sean was feeling restless. He wanted to do new things, reach further, do more. 

Since showing Rebecca his scars, he felt that their friendship had grown even closer. She had a way of making him laugh, and she helped him feel supported when he was down or when old memories tried to get the best of him. 

He was starting to feel confident in his driving skills--- his dad had been suggesting he give the test a try, and he felt that it was within his reach--- he'd try it soon. 

Outside, summer break was only a couple of months away, and he finally felt like his heart was thawing. He was going to be ok. He was going to make it. He wasn't trapped in his pain anymore. He was gaining freedom in his head and in his heart, and he just knew--- he was going to make it.

----------------------------------------------

  Sean and Rebecca were just leaving a movie theater on a Saturday afternoon, laughing and chatting, when Sean's phone rang in his pocket. He hadn't heard from his friend Jonathan in a bit, so he was surprised and pleased to see his name on the display. "Hey!" he answered, mouthing "Jonathan" at Rebecca's inquiring gaze. Rebecca fell into step with Sean's relaxed gait as they headed back to their bikes, but paused when he abruptly stopped in his tracks. "In two weeks?" she heard him say, his voice not sounding quite right. "It sounds like fun. Let me just check my calendar and I'll let you know," he responded, then said his goodbyes and hung up. 

Sean stuck his phone in his pocket, then began walking quickly over to the bike rack. Swiftly unlocking his bike, he nearly jumped onto it and pedaled off. His hand stilled, however, when his awareness zeroed in on Rebecca's gentle touch on his arm. "Is everything okay?" she asked. Sean groaned and closed his eyes. "I'm sorry," he replied after a moment, not immediately explaining himself. He looked around, suddenly feeling self-conscious. "Do you mind if we talk back at your place?" he asked her. "Sure, no problem," she was quick to respond, reaching down to unlock her own bike. 

Sean remained quiet as they pedaled back to Rebecca's house. He felt guilty for nearly running off and leaving her. 

As they arrived at her place, they both wheeled their bikes into Rebecca's garage. She quietly led the way into the house. 

By this time Sean was used to the bustle of activity that met him every time he stepped into her home. In the kitchen, her parents enthusiastically greeted both of them. Warm earth tones infused the room with a cozy feeling, and a few hanging plants punctuated the cheerful decor. The family dog, a golden retriever, had ceased his loud barking to lick anyone's hand that was accessible. Down the hall, both music and video game sound effects emanated from her younger brother's bedroom doorway.

"Hi, Mom, hi, Dad!" Rebecca smiled, hugging each of them.

"How was the movie?" Rebecca's dad, Robert, asked.

"It was great! We loved it," she answered with a smile. 

Sean hung back, his smile slightly forced. He liked Rebecca's parents a lot, but his mind was elsewhere. 

"You're welcome to stay for dinner of course, Sean," her mom said, moving to include him in a hug. 

"Thanks, Mrs. Summers," he replied, feeling a little awkward. 

"Come now, we know each other better than that. Just call me Bonnie," she said. 

"I'll try," Sean answered, smiling sheepishly.

"We'll be in my room, Mom," Rebecca said as she started towards the hallway. Sean followed.

"Hey, Danny!" Rebecca called into her brother's doorway as they strode past it. 

"Hey Sis!" he hollered back, sounding a bit distracted. 

Rebecca chuckled as she led the way into her room, and moved to close the door. "Sorry," she apologized with a smile. "I know you wanted a quiet place to talk, and my place isn't always so quiet." 

"That's all right," Sean quickly reassured her. "Your family is really nice. Sometimes it's a little too quiet at my house." 

Rebecca sat on her bed next to her sleeping cat, Rascal. He awakened, looking perturbed at the disturbance, but was mollified easily as she absently stroked his fur.

Sean chose the chair at her desk to sit in. Guilt chipped at him as he chose his words. "I'm sorry if I ruined the mood after all the fun we had," he started in.

"You didn't ruin anything," Rebecca replied calmly.

Sean sighed, looking away. "Jonathan was the one who called me, outside the theater." Rebecca nodded.

"Well, see---and this is the stupid part. All he wanted was to invite me to a pool party he's having in two weeks," he continued. Rebecca frowned momentarily. "Is that bad?" she asked, unsure why this would be upsetting. 

"Yes---no---I mean, it shouldn't be. It should be fine. It should be great!" he threw his hands up in the air, suddenly feeling intense frustration. "It's just me and my stupid hangups that get in the way." 

"Hey, it's not stupid, okay? You've got to cut yourself a little more slack than that," Rebecca countered, shaking a finger in his direction. 

"Thanks. It's just so frustrating when something so simple becomes this big deal." Sean sighed and ran a hand roughly through his hair. 

"So...what makes it a big deal?" Rebecca prodded, stroking Rascal's ear while his purring increased in volume.

Sean averted his gaze, picking up a painted rock from Rebecca's desktop. He ran his thumb across the smooth surface as he quietly said, "My scars." 

Suddenly it all made perfect sense to Rebecca. "I understand now," she said, just as quietly. "What do you want to do? Do you want to go?"

"Well, yeah, I'd love to go. I just don't know how I'm going to...handle what people might say if they notice." His jaw tensed as he closed his hand in a fist around the rock, clenching his fingers tightly.

"What if you just kept a T-shirt on?" Rebecca asked.

"I thought about that. I just wonder if that would look weird? Especially in the pool," Sean thought, his brows furrowed. 

"I don't know," Rebecca hummed in thought. "I wonder if maybe... maybe, you need to feel more at ease with your scars yourself? You could even show your dad, and see what he thinks about it?" 

Sean sucked in a breath. He hadn't thought about that. "I think I don't want to show my dad, because it feels like it would hurt him too much to see," he said sadly. "And I've hurt him enough already as it is."

Rebecca stood and crossed the room to place a hand on Sean's shoulder. "You didn't hurt him," she insisted. "You being hurt...made him hurt for you. It wasn't your doing." 

Sean stood and held Rebecca tightly. "Thank you," he whispered. "You're welcome," she replied, just as softly, hugging him back. She gently laid one hand over his midsection, and said, "You're gonna be okay."

The warmth of her hand felt like it was melting his uncertainties and doubts. Sean had never felt this close to someone before. His heart pounding, he leaned in to press a soft kiss to Rebecca's temple. "Thank you for always supporting me," he said simply, pulling back slightly to gaze at her face. "Of course. And I always will," she responded, and her eyes held a warmth and sparkle that he couldn't look away from. Feeling hopelessly drawn in by his awareness of her, he slowly angled his mouth towards hers, hit by a jolt of surprise and pleasure when she closed the distance between them and pressed her lips to his. The kiss deepened and she wrapped both arms around him. 

They were both a little breathless when they broke apart, and Sean felt almost giddy. He smiled and Rebecca giggled a little. "That was fun," she said, and reached up to tickle him briefly. He laughed and gave her one more quick hug. He was going to hold onto this moment as long as it lasted. 

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