#man i want that pizza right now to be quite honest

[okcassin]

*singular quiet knock on your door, whispers,* trick or treat……. 🧍‍♂️

TREAT!

You get frozen pizza with extra cheese from my camera roll!

[afewproblems]

The Holiday Party had gone quite smoothly, more than he was expecting if Steve was being honest with himself.

Until about halfway through, but that was pretty par for the course.

Jonathan had unearthed an old Rummoli Board from a box labeled 'Basement Misc', the Byers were still in the middle of unpacking from their move back to Hawkins, and brought it alongside a bottle of wine that Nancy had managed to smuggle from the Wheelers liquor cabinet.

Robin, who rode with Eddie and Argyle, brought pizza, the only copy of It's A Wonderful Life from Family Video, and way too much weed for just the six of them.

"It isn't a party without a little Kush Stevie," Eddie had told him, clapping his warm hand on Steve's shoulder, his thumb just high enough to rest on bare skin above the collar of his sweater.

All Steve could do was roll his eyes and take the pizzas, quickly ducking into the kitchen before Robin or, God Forbid, Eddie could comment on the pink flush that had taken over his face at the new nickname.

Robin had been insisting that Steve just tell Eddie how he felt for the last few weeks. Rip the bandaid off and come clean. What was the worst that could happen?

Which, really Robin?

Steve knows exactly what happens when someone puts themselves out there only for the other person to not feel the same way. His whole argument was currently sitting in his living room for fucks sake.

Sure, Steve and Nancy were on better terms now, but it also took two years to get there, and even still, there was a weird tension when they found themselves alone together.

So, no, telling Eddie was not an option, Robin.

Steve could keep it together. He could deal with the ache in his chest at the sight of Eddie's smile. Steve could deal with the way his heart beat quickened whenever Eddie said his name. He could deal with the heady flush that bloomed every time Eddie touched him.

He was fine, it was fine.

And, movie nights like these were nothing new in the wake of Vecnas defeat and the destruction of the Upside Down. Steve needed to keep it together if he wanted to continue to have this. Nights without the kids to look after or the adults to hide their indulgences from, these were the nights where they could truly relax.

These were Steve's favourite, and he was not going to let some Bullshit feelings stand in the way of being able to see Eddie.

This Christmas Eve found the six of them lounging on pillows and extra couch cushions from the basement to make the 'best movie watching set-up thank you very much', according to Robin, and watching It's a Wonderful Life for the umpteenth time.

"I can't believe that George Bailey would wish for something like that, when it's so obvious that people care about him," Robin scoffs at the top of her voice about halfway through the movie, prompting a irritated Shush from Nancy.

"That bro is depressed man, it's like a cry for help, and on Christmas, this shit is heavy dude," Argyle hums, lifting his fist up to Robin who shakes it with a wild grin. The two erupt into violent giggles which begin to creep into Steve and Eddie and eventually Jonathan as well. Nancy rolls her eyes but can't help the smile that takes over her face as well.

"Who would wish to never be born when you could just wish for the bank to like, not fuck you over, seems like a waste of a wish if you ask me," Eddie says as the last traces of giggles begin to finally disapate.

"Ooo, Eddie's right!" Robin says as she reaches for the remote, hitting pause on the movie. She waves her hands through the chorus of groans from everyone except Eddie who turns around to Steve with an incredulous expression on his face.

Steve shrugs as Robin continues, unable to look away from those large brown eyes until a hand darts out to smack him in the chest.

"Steve, pay attention," Robin huffs, "let's go around and share what we would wish for!"

Oh shit.

Steve turns on the couch to fully face Robin with narrowed eyes. She grins at him, lifting a single eyebrow as her blue eyes dart between Eddie and Steve.

Steve opens his mouth to argue, to insist that they just carry on with the movie, only for Eddie to drum his hands against his knees and speak.

"Oh birdie, I'm way ahead of you, this is Wayne's favorite Christmas movie so I've done a lot of thinking 'bout this".

Eddie clears his throat and lifts his hands from his knees now as though he's about to launch into a story for Hellfire, "I would personally wish for the money to be able to fund Corroded Coffin full time, get a demo done, and then be able to kiss this fucking one horse town good bye!"

Steve feels the words hit him like a bucket of cold water.

Eddie wants to leave Hawkins.

His wish, his dream, for forever from the sounds of it, is to leave them all behind.

To leave Steve behind.

The voices from the group, pitched high and low, all blend together into one as the rest of the group share their own wishes.

Steve absently feels a small hand grip his own, he looks up to see Robin staring at him, a worried frown pinched between her eyebrows. He answers her silent question with a shake of his head.

It was fine, he was fine. This was a good thing, better to know now than later when Eddie would inevitably leave him behind.

"Stevie?"

Steve startles as a ringed hand waves precariously close to his face. Eddie smiles faintly at him, one dimple on display as he speaks again.

"Kinda lost you for a second there, what about your wish?"

"Oh," he manages to say with a slight laugh in his voice, even as his brain fills with static, "um, I haven't ever really thought about it, maybe some new music or something".

Nancy and Jonathan both boo loudly from the love seat while Argyle nods with a hazy smile.

"Right on my man, sounds like Eddie'll be able to help when his band makes it big," he says before turning back to the television and slumping even more heavily into the couch.

Steve forces out another bright laugh, ignoring how much it burns his throat and crushes his chest. The only thing keeping him in his seat is the firm hold of Robin's hand on his own.

He doesn't look at Eddie as he leans forward to press play on the movie once more, letting the music and dialogue fill the room once more.

Later, as the end of the credits roll and the tape switches back to static, Nance and Jonathan are fast asleep. The pair are cuddled up on the love seat, their heads leaning against one another. It would almost be cute if not for the pang of envy that fills Steve at the sight.

Steve tries to bask in the warmth of having Robin cuddled into his side, knowing it will alleviate at least some of the ache in his chest. Robins eyes have been steadily growing heavier as she slowly falls further and further into Steves side. He smiles, reaching up to brush her hair away from her face.

At least he has Robin, and maybe for now that is enough.

***

This is a part one, let me know if anyone would like a part Two?

[mollygetssherlockcoffee]

Do As You're Told

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader

Summary: Why can't Bucky just do as he's told?

Warnings: A bit suggestive but nothing crazy

Words: 770

A/N: Hello, it is I. I have returned from retirement to grace you with something which has be in my "Writing Ideas" note document for well over a year

Main Masterlist Bucky Barnes Masterlist Permanent Taglist

“I just don’t get it” Bucky shrugs, sipping at his beer as he leans back on the couch. 

“Yeah, because you’re an idiot” you nod simply, as if it was the only logical explanation. 

“Oh, for god's sake!” he throws his arms up, head falling back onto the head rest. “I’m sorry, okay? How many times do I have to say it?!”

If you were being honest, you were over it already but come on, you had to keep going, right. You have very specifically told him that he needed to go to that one particular store, on the one particular road, in order to get the right containers you needed. It was fifteen minutes by walking, five if he took his bike. 

But oh no, Bucky Barnes knows best. He went to the regular old corner store and got the cheapest containers he could find. And what happened? You had no choice but to use them - you were ready to dish up and had to leave the apartment ten minutes after. Firstly, the containers were not the right size, meaning you had to make your portions smaller. Secondly, at least a quarter of the lids did not fit properly because they were so cheaply made. And thirdly, a good number of those containers split. You were lucky that there were extra paper plates at the event otherwise you’d have been screwed.

What a waste of your time.

Still, you had gotten over it pretty quickly. Making Bucky clean up the mess had taught him a lesson. Admittedly, it had also given you a nice view of him on his hands and knees in front of you but no one needed to know of that little observation. 

Because while Bucky was a beautiful specimen of man, he was just that - a man. He was pretty, he was strong, he was smart… but he was also dumb as a bag of rocks. 

When you had first met Bucky, as a newly hired agent at the same time that he was also joining the team, you were smitten. His stoic personality quickly warmed to a cheeky side with a cute little smile. Oh, how he had made your cheeks warm in those first few months. You had tried hinting at your attraction for him, asking him out for a drink or if he wanted to catch a movie, but he always turned it into a group activity with the rest of your team. 

At first you thought that you had gotten the wrong impression. You could have sworn that he was also attracted to you, but maybe you were wrong. However, Steve had said that Bucky smiled more when you were around. He was also a lot more patient when teaching you something during training than with the rest of the group.

Either way, after the first attempt, you gave up. You buried your attraction to him deep within yourself… sort of. You couldn’t completely stop yourself from admiring him, you were only human after all. 

Years down the line, you hid your attraction quite well. Well enough to share an apartment with him in the city and not make it awkward. 

“Well, maybe you’ll listen to me and do as you’re told from now on,” you said, sipping from your wine glass. 

“Please, women don’t tell me what to do,” he scoffs. He watches your lips curl into a smile, hastily cutting you off, “Okay, they do, but not in my own apartment.”

“Oh, really?” you questioned. You settled your wine glass on the coffee table, turning to face him and tucking your leg beneath you. 

“Yes, really,” he confirms. 

Just then, the doorbell rings, pizza’s here. You both remain seated, eyes locked. The bell goes again. With a quiet sigh, you push yourself up, half standing with your knee on the couch. You lean forward, your hand lifting between you.Your hand rested under his jaw, thumb in the little dent of his chin as you lean close to him.

“Now, be a good boy and go answer the door,” you tell him. 

You fall back gracefully into the corner of the couch, your legs delicately crossed with your arms resting over the arm and back of the couch. You watch as Bucky’s mouth moves slightly, opening and closing before he breathes in suddenly, almost as if he had been holding his breath. His eyes, darkened with something unreadable, blinked as he tried to process what was being said…

And all this while he mindlessly stood up, put his beer on the coffee table, and went to answer the door.

Permanent Taglist: @buckyzwhore @tripletstephaniescp @xoxsbd88xoxox @tenaciousperfectionunknown @draw-back-your-bow @sammypotato67 @sskhair @kittenssss-blog @hallecarey1 @thegirlnextdoorssister @waywardwifey

Marvel Taglist: @stardust-galaxies @loopy-lupinn

[jarofstyles]

Sugar, Sugar 13

Hey… sorry it’s been so long angels 😭 here you go!! I hope you missed them as much as I did.

Check out our Patreon for early access and 160+ exclusive writings

Sugar Sugar masterlist

WC- 3.1k

warnings- mentions of disordered eating and bad relationship with food, body issues, fad diet mention, bad relationship with a parent, body shaming, etc

--------

“So, spill. How was it?” Delilah asked as she eyed Y/N. 

“How was what?” Playing coy behind the counter, she did the initial cash wrap check as she avoided her best friend’s eyes. She knew exactly what she was talking about. 

“Getting railed half to death.” She deadpanned, making Y/N choke on her laughter. “Don’t play games with me, girl. I can see your literal glow.” She paused, her eyes moving south. “And your man has a nasty habit of biting you.” He did. Y/N knew exactly where the hickey was on her collarbone, but her wrap she had on over her lacy tank top usually hid it. She was just careless this morning and didn’t think about it being on display. 

“He is quite bad with that, isn’t he?” She snorted, turning to her friend with giddy light in her eyes. “Great. Better than I expected. Made me really comfortable and I spent the whole night and day.. Y’know.” Her face felt hot as she placed the cash into the register before starting up the POS and making sure everything would be right for when the day ended. “I was worried for nothing. The man is kinda unreal, if I’m being honest. I was taken care of in every way. I shouldn’t be surprised considering he’s been really good to me so far.” Brushing her hair over her shoulder, the drawer was closed and she took note of her green tea, picking it up for a sip now that it wouldn’t burn her tongue. 

“It’s what you deserve.” Her friend smiled softly. “You deserve a great love like you read about in your books. Besides, I know you’re going to get it. It’s written in the stars.” She was joking, but also… not really. Delilah knew things without knowing how she knew them, and it was almost always true. “Where is he today? Are we expecting a drop in from him?”

“Actually, I don’t know.” Y/N hummed. He hadn’t replied after his initial good morning message but she wasn’t too worried about it. “He said something about stopping by the bakery. He had today off to go run errands so he’ll be dropping things off but I know I’m seeing him tomorrow. We’re going to that new pizza place.” She was excited about that. There was a flatbread she was looking forward to trying, and Harry had suggested getting two different things and splitting it. It was nice to feel comfortable eating with someone. That was one of the anxiety triggers she had to unlearn as she got older. 

“I think we’re going to get a drop in.” Taking one of the baskets they used for restocks, she went towards the tumble table and began to deposit the little baggies of colorful stones and minerals into the correct cubbies. “Have you brought up that Claire woman yet?”

Y/N hadn’t, very well for a reason. She didn’t like the feeling it gave her stomach. Somehow, she was well aware she and Harry had been involved. Somehow, someway. It didn’t seem strong, as she obviously couldn’t be that close to him anymore if she’s unable to contact him but… It still wasn’t a good feeling. The woman wasn’t nice, her energy was rancid and muddy, and she obviously looked down on them for believing in their own thing. That was the exact person she tried to avoid. Y/N knew it was perhaps rude to judge solely off of one interaction, but something told her Harry wouldn’t be happy to hear about her coming in. 

“Not yet.” She said sheepishly, spooning a bit of yogurt into her mouth. “I know, you don’t have to give me the eyebrow. I’m just… You know how it is. When you know it’s going to cause an issue.” Y/N didn’t think it would be with her but the idea of upsetting Harry at all wasn’t something she enjoyed. Being so new in the relationship, she wanted that honeymoon stage. It had been so lovely this far, she selfishly wanted to avoid the past and the real world from inserting themselves in her rose colored daydream with her dreamy new boyfriend. 

Unfortunately, that wasn’t how life worked. 

“Putting it off isn’t doing either of you any favors, Cher.” She gave her another look, hanging up a necklace back on the display. “I trust you to handle it on your own time, but do it soon. I have a feeling she isn’t done sniffing around yet.”

—--

“Hey.” A wide smile greeted her as she heard the chime of the bells on the door, seeing the man that had been on her mind. High waisted black pants with a flare at the bottom and a yellow tee shirt, he walked in with his boots clicking on the hardwood floor. Lifting his sunglasses off his face into his fluffy hair, he extended his arms to motion for her to walk into them. She did so without a question. How could she not? 

Falling into his warm scent, she nuzzled her face into his neck and allowed herself to be engulfed in him. Something about them felt closer now. More intimate. Maybe she was making it up but a layer had been shed and he felt even more close to her soul. Lips pecked a few times into her hair, swaying her back and forth as her fingers curled into the hair at the nape of his neck, a relieved sigh leaving the man. “Y’alright, Sugar?”

“Mhm.” She nodded against him. “Tired. Spilled my coffee a quarter through but it’s been a bit busy today so we haven’t had the chance to get away. You win some, you lose some.” She’d rather be a little tired and making money, giving readings, all of that. 

“Should have texted me.” His tongue clicked, finally getting a good look at her as she pulled out of his neck. Didn’t she realize he’d do almost anything for her? “Would have brought you some over, sweets. What good is having a boyfriend if you’re not gonna use me?” He was joking, but not really. He knew that he’d bend over backwards for the girl in his arms. 

“In all honesty, I didn’t even think about it. I knew you were busy today running errands and we had a lot of walk in readings, I’ve been a little busy.” Her fingers ran through his hair again, liking how it felt between them. He always melted like a pup getting pets when she did it too, so it was a win win. “Did you get everything done that you needed?”

“I did.” He moved on swiftly. “Are you sayin’ you didn’t eat?” His brow raised, making her wince. Sometimes she forgot, but it wasn’t on purpose. It was genuine distraction. “Baby…” 

“I had a yogurt and granola bar. I was planning on making some food when I got home, but I was busy. Promise.” She tried her luck at a pout which luckily seemed to break down the glare. 

“Too bad.” He sighed. “M’gonna run and get you both food. I don’t like this, Sugar.” Large hands cupped her face, making her feel more delicate than she ever had been. Sometimes it felt hard to lean into that femininity of delicacy when she’d been treated as the opposite most of her life, but Harry had her falling into it so easily. “I know you’re a big girl and you can handle yourself, but it’s okay to ask me for help. I want to help you, I want to be a good boyfriend and grab your things when you’re busy. I know you’d do the same for me.” She already had. The girl had given him a whole welcome basket when he opened his own business, for fucks sake. 

“I know. It’s…” Feeling slightly guilty now, she rested her hands on his wrists. “It’s a hard habit to break. I’ve been independent for years now and I don’t like to rely on people.” It was always thrown back in her face. “I’ll try harder, H. Promise.” Turning her head, she caught his palm with her lips and pressed kisses to it. That move melted him completely, leaning down to kiss her lips a few times before peeling himself away. 

“Good girl. I’ll be back in a bit. Be good for me.”

Y/N hated to see him go, but she loved to watch him leave. Still buzzing from the affection, she jumped as Delilah came out of the back room fanning herself. 

“That man is completely gone for you. Lord…” She shook her head. “What a guy. I’m glad he wants to take care of you, Cher. You deserve it.” Her hand squeezed her shoulder as she slipped past her. 

“It has nothing to do with the fact he’s getting you lunch too?” She snickered, watching her friend shrug. 

“That definitely helps.”

—--

Y/N’s good mood was squashed just 10 minutes later when a familiar face walked through the shop doors, nose wrinkling at the scent of the incense. 

God, why now? 

“Y/N, I’ve told you that these smoky scents are going to drive away customers.”

Yeah, that was the point. Drive away customers with impure intentions. 

“Hi, Mother.” Y/N sighed, feeling her shoulders tighten as she watched the woman come closer into the shop. Her tumultuous relationship with her mother had a lot to do with the fact that Y/N reminded her of her own. They’d been extremely close, sharing their love of the spiritual world, of magic, all the things while her mom had rejected it. Y/N had been easier to bond with for her grandmother and she knew she held resentment over it for years. 

She wasn’t an awful person, was the thing. She liked to support her at school, took her shopping for makeup, taught her how to do her hair and tie her shoes. She held her when she was sick, stuck up for her when she got bullied- but she didn’t realize she herself was her daughter’s first and biggest bully. 

“Hello. It’s been weeks since you’ve visited me or your father.” She sent her a look. “Are you well? Do you need money? I know the shop is a bit of a hard venture to keep up…” 

There it was. Her mother had always hated this shop. Hated what it stood for, what it represented. Y/N never faulted or judged someone for not believing or being connected in the things she was. It was a calling, she truly believed, whether natural or brought on by a life event. But her mother thought it to be a bit of a waste of time. Always expecting her downfall, though she didn’t think she was cruel enough to hope for it. 

“No, we’re actually doing incredibly well.” It was the truth. They were making bigger profits than the years before and she was more than glad about that. They’d paid off the loan they took out and now they were working towards a possible expansion. But her mom didn’t want to hear about that. “I’m sorry I haven’t been around. I’ve been a bit busy.” 

Her mom gave her a scrutinizing eye, unsure if she believed her. Y/N wasn’t usually a busy person, despite the shop. She liked a slower lifestyle and she knew that, which is why she understood the look on her face. “Have you gone back to the gym like I asked? I haven’t seen you there. I can go with you, you know. I think you’d love my trainer. He’s very dedicated.”

There it was again. Y/N felt her stomach drop, though she should have expected it. Her mother was obsessed with her weight. She’d been the one to try and get her on diets at an early age, effectively ruining her relationship with food. While she knew her mother was someone who cared about her, sometimes she cared about the wrong things a bit too much. Once Y/N had made peace with the fact that she’d always be a bigger girl, her mother had pushed back at it causing more of a rift. She wasn’t going along with her plans and fad diets anymore, and it felt like a personal insult. 

“No, no. I’ve been busy with something else, actually.” With Harry. The pretty, driven, thoughtful man that had her tummy in knots and her head in the clouds. 

“Well, what? I’ve sent you dozens of recipes. I doubt you’ve tried them though. It looks like you’ve put on a bit of weight in the last few weeks. I thought you were making progress.” Her frown made Y/N’s stomach hurt. She’d resigned herself into knowing she would probably never get her mother’s approval on her body, but the reminders didn’t do much to make her feel good. Accepting it didn’t mean liking it. 

“I may have. I’ve been fine, though.” She sighed, running a hand through her hair. “I’ll come by for dinner next week, I promise. I just-”

The door chimed again, interrupting them both. Her stomach dropped as she saw Harry’s smiling face, something that usually would make her erupt into butterflies- but this wasn’t the introduction she wanted to make. Not quite yet. 

“I’m back, sorry. There was a line.” He murmured, going behind the desk and pressing a kiss to her cheek. Her body flushed as she looked towards her mother, her eyes wide as Harry adjusted her hair for her before setting the food bag and coffee tray on the counter. “Sorry, I’ll step out of the way if you’re helping someone.”

“Who’s this?” Her mother’s interest was immediately evident. 

“I’m Harry, Y/N’s boyfriend. Nice t’meet you. What’s your name?” He asked, placing a hand on his girlfriend’s back. 

“H, this is my mother.” Y/N swallowed, looking between the two of them. She could see his eyes widen, reaching a hand out for her to shake. He was always so polite, so charming, but she couldn’t help but see the look on her mom’s face. 

“You’re her boyfriend?” She asked, brows raised. Her voice sounded in disbelief, looking between the two of them as if something didn’t add up. “I didn’t know she even had a boyfriend.” 

Thankfully she’d let him know she hadn’t exactly told her yet so he didn’t seem shocked about that, but the meeting was a little unorthodox. 

His brows did furrow at her tone and she could tell he didn’t like it. But for her sake he kept a smile on his face, shaking the woman’s hand lightly. “Yes, I am. M’quite gone for her. You raised an incredible woman, Ma’am.” He spoke earnestly. 

“Excuse my shock, I just didn’t realize….” She trailed off, still seeming confused. “Y/N does like her secrets, it seems. You’re very handsome. What do you do?” It was likeher mother to be nosy, sniffing out why exactly the man was around her daughter. Y/N could see that she was suspicious and it hurt her because she knew exactly why she was. 

She was making sure he wasn’t using her for another reason. For money or something else, because it was hard for her to believe a man as attractive as him would be with her for pure attraction and chemistry. 

“I actually own the bakery across the street.” He said easily. “Thank you for the compliment. She’s an incredible woman, so welcoming and kind. Beautiful to boot.” He meant every word, tapping the tip of her nose. “I don’t want to interrupt, though… I brought the girls lunch.” 

“Oh, it’s not trouble. I was coming because my daughter forgets she has a phone.” She shot her a look. “Why don’t you come to dinner next week with her? You’re more than welcome. Her father would be more than happy to meet you.” 

“If it’s alright with Y/N, I will.” He nodded, showing his loyalty immediately. Harry wouldn’t do anything that made his girl uncomfortable and he was dedicated to the cause. He was already unsure about the woman, but the next words solidified it for him. 

“Alright, whatever you decide. Just make sure she doesn’t have too many sweets from your bakery, hm? It’s starting to show again.” She was joking as if it was funny, patting her daughter’s hand before stepping back. “I hope to see you next week, Harry. Call me, Y/N, we have much to discuss.” 

Her mother was swift, walking out the door as quickly as she had come in. As soon as she was gone, the energy calmed and her shoulders fell, groaning low in her throat as she moved to hide her face in Harry’s chest again. He knew better than to talk, instead stroking over her hair as he let her recover from that interaction. 

Internally though, his view on her mother was soured. How dare she make a comment to not only her daughter about that, but to him? A man she was dating and obviously really liked her? Did she not realize how awful it was to comment on something like that? Y/N had told him that her relationship with her mother had been a weird one but he hadn’t expected her to say something cruel like that. It didn’t even seem to register that she was being mean, she genuinely seemed to think it was funny. 

“I’m sorry about that.” She sighed, pulling back from his chest. “She’s… she’s a lot. I promise she isn’t all bad, but she’s got quirks.” Her face pulled in a slight grimace, making him smile sadly at her as he caressed her warm cheek. 

“That wasn’t nice to say, but I have a feeling it isn’t something you want t’unpack in the middle of a work day.” It wasn’t something he felt could be properly discussed out here anyways. “We can talk about it tomorrow, if you want…but I just have to say this one thing.” His head dipped to get closer to hers. “I don’t mind if you gain or lose weight. I don’t care about that at all so long as you’re healthy and comfortable. I’ll never restrict you from eating, never make you feel as though you’re too much. I know you struggle with it, but I’m never going to contribute to that. I’m here to support you.” 

His words were genuine, eyes shining as he told her his truth. She could feel it radiating off of him and it made her want to tear up, but he didn’t give her a chance to reply to that before he smacked a kiss to her nose and pulled back to open the paper bag that had been stapled shut. “But now I want you to tell me if I did a good job choosing your meal, please. I did the caramel coffee with oat milk, iced. I remembered that bit.” 

Y/N wasn’t sure where the hell Harry had come from, but she was thankful for whoever had sent him. It seemed like she needed him now more than ever.

[nburkhardt]

Part one Part two

Whispered reassures and promises. Promises of lists and songs on post-it notes. Laughter and praise between it all, it can make someone’s head spin.

It’s definitely making Steve’s head spin.

A quick brush of lips against his temple, so quick he thinks he imagined it. A gentle squeeze of their clasped hands, then both are gone and he opens his eyes to find Eddie now standing smiling down at him with a hand open in front of him.

“Come on, Stevie, let’s continue this on a couch and get something to drink.” Eddie wiggles his hand impatiently, “the floor hurts, Sunshine.”

His brain freezes for a split second before the first smile, a near blinding one spreads on his face. He won’t question the new nickname, maybe someday but not today and maybe he’ll ask Eddie to call him that everyday. For now he watches as Eddie’s smile gets brighter and wiggles his hand again before clasping it with his.

An hour later and they’re sitting on his couch, Eddie’s on one side and he’s on the other; they’re facing each other with their legs a tangled mess. Eddie had insisted, saying it was to ground him. He’ll be honest, he doesn’t quite understand that but it does feel nice. The only other person who insists on physical contact is Robin, but she limits it to a hug or just high-fives. If it was up to Steve, they’d be hugging, holding hands or wrapping ankles together none stop.

Okay, so he might be a little touch-starved now that he’s thinking about it.

It seems though, Eddie doesn’t mind touch. He’s actually the one asking for it first, can’t figure out if it’s because of his breakdown earlier or because that’s just something Eddie does sometimes.

“What’s going on in that head of yours?” Breaks through his thoughts and he shakes his head to focus on the man across from him, Eddie’s rolling his water bottle between his hands. There’s a curious look on his face, “you’ve been quiet.”

He shrugs a little before leaning back further, “Just, thinking.”

Eddie hums with a nod, dropping his water bottle in his lap and bringing a knee up to rest his head on it, “What about? Pizza won’t be here for another thirty minutes”

He opens his mouth with a lie, a simple ‘nothing, don’t worry about it’ because it’s a lot, today has been a lot to handle. Voicing out loud that he might be touch-starved would be another heavy topic. Despite sharing his deepest secret, his biggest insecurity. Sharing another one? It would be too much for one day.

“Just, that you’re a great person” it’s not a lie, that’ll never be a lie. Eddie is a great person, one of the best that Steve knows. It’s just not what he was really thinking though, Eddie will figure it out when he gets the courage to speak about more insecurities later. “How, um, did you know what to do back there?”

Eddie looks confused for only a second before answering, “pulling you out of the breakdown? Well, I have anxiety attacks sometimes, my uncle still gets panic attacks from time to time. He taught me how to handle them, told me the rights and wrongs on what to do.”

Nodding, he then looks away to stare down at his lap, avoiding Eddie’s gaze. He feels like an open book right now, feels like Eddie is staring into his everything and he feels comfort in that really he does but he's also so terrified of that feeling.

It’s…nice, having someone like this. He knows that his friendship with Robin is similar to that but this? This is different and he doesn’t want it to be like his friendship with Robin.

The doorbell rings and before he can get up, Eddie’s already standing and shakes a finger in his direction, “nah-uh, I’m paying. You stay here, drink the water and relax, okay?”

“Okay”

He doesn’t bother watching Eddie walk to the door, instead he lowers himself on the couch and thinks.

Is this going to last? How true are Eddie’s words? Will he really stay by his side and will he really write positive post-it notes for him? Write a song for him?

He feels like he’s back in Eddie’s hospital room, with questions but his mouth refuses to open. He doesn’t know if he wants the answers, this time either.

For now, he’ll let those questions stay in his head while he enjoys Eddie’s company and some pizza. And hope that tomorrow is better, either with Eddie by his side or without.

~~

He called out of work. He doesn’t do that, it’ll hurt losing that money but he can’t face Robin right now. Doesn’t necessarily want to face anyone right now actually, there’s a chance the kids or even Eddie’s band mates will show up. He can’t handle that, still feeling raw from Eddie even seeing him the way he did.

Currently he’s wrapped up in his blankets on his bed overthinking, again.

Yesterday replaying in his head, Eddie’s words acting as a melody from a song. Sometimes in order, sometimes just one sentence or even one word repeating over and over. If he wasn’t laying in bed, he’d be dizzy and distracted from it.

“one day you’ll believe me”

“I promise you”

“You are not an asshole”

“You’re a good person, Stevie”

“You have me”

He’s tired of tears, but it seems he has an unlimited amount in his eyes. He can’t help but think over all of those words, or just think of Eddie. If he thinks hard enough, he can feel the kiss on his forehead or how their legs were pressed together. It was so weirdly intimate, like he could float away and be present but also not. The idea of being able to not be here seems freeing and that's a scary thought.

All those moments helped him sleep for only a few hours, all the warmth faded before the sun came out and Steve was jolted awake by it. He’s been awake since, the words and memories aren’t enough for him to go back to sleep.

~~~~

Steve's head is all over the place much like my own. Sorry we didn't get more comfort, Steve has a lot of thoughts okay?? He’s an over-thinker. Don't worry more parts are coming :)

Also sorry it’s a lot shorter than the other two and if it’s too non-linear, it made sense in my head ending it where I did 😅

taglist: @zerokrox-blog @piningapple @i-wanna-combust @stevecarrington @henderdads @fiore-della-valle @eddiemunsonswife @mixsethaddams @momotonescreaming @ajamlessbaby @novelnovella @flustratedcas @thelastwalkingsoul

@hellfire1986baby @manda-panda-monium @xo-blairej @freyaforestafay @princessstevemunson @lifeisnotsobadonceyoustopcaring @sapphirecobalt-1 @stevesworldxx @jonathanbyersbbg @fromapayphone @anzelsilver @adaed5 @koyislosinghismind

Part four

[femmmie]

The Edge

I've written this phanfic for @dapg-otmebytheballs as part of the @phandomgiftexchange. I was so excited when I saw I got to write for you. You're one of my favorite phan blogs!! I really tried to make it more angsty, but Dan and Phil are radiating so much love and general joy that I just couldn't.. I hope you still like it though!!

Genre: angst, fluff

Words: 1.508

AO3 link

Excerpt: "Dan gasped as a tall, ruffled haired and bespectacled angel of a man appeared. With his goofy smile. With his mismatched socks, his anime shirt and his horrifically printed pajama pants. His eyes reflected the last rays of sunlight with a sparkling sea of blue and green. How Dan loved this man."

The early sunset bestowed a pink hue upon the white walls. They were the walls of an incredibly expensive London house. A long shadow moved up and down the large living room. Dan was pacing, mumbling loudly.

"I know it's what I want but what I want is not necessarily the right thing, maybe, maybe it is, but they said that I should carve out my own path but I just want to be with Phil and make videos with Phil and be with Phil more hours of the day, I need it to be 24 or I might go insane tALKING TO MYSELF AGAIN…"

His ramblings continued as he paced faster and faster. "The solo tour was fun, but it was also terrible. I don't want to be away from Phil, I need -" Dan called out: Phil? PHIL??

Muffled footsteps came down the stairs. Dan gasped as a tall, ruffled haired and bespectacled angel of a man appeared. With his goofy smile. With his mismatched socks, his anime shirt and his horrifically printed pajama pants. His eyes reflected the last rays of sunlight with a sparkling sea of blue and green. How Dan loved this man.

"Is it time to make dinner already?"

"You know what, that's a good idea, Phil."

"I could make us noodles," Phil replied as he opened (but didn't close) some of the kitchen's cabinets.

"Singapore noodles!" Dan said excitedly as the lights automatically turned on. They were a friendly orange and Dan smiled, content with the layout and the atmosphere of the room. It was exactly what he had hoped it would be, all those years ago when they were designing their forever home.

"Wanna make it together?"

"I'll chop the vegetables, I am concerned for both our safeties if you have a knife in your hands."

"Hey!" Phil chuckled and pushed Dan lovingly.

As they were cooking, Dan blurted it out.

"Phil, the whole solo career isn't working."

"What do you mean?" Phil looked at Dan, his ginger eyebrows raised in concern.

"I mean, it was a nice idea, having my own shows, tour and stuff. But…" Dan sat down at the kitchen table.

"Phil," he said, voice strained. "I am still not living my truth! What use is it to be independent, if I can only show half of myself? I did a whole bloody series on my own. Do you know which episode i like the most? The one with you! Actually, it's the only episode i like to be honest. I was so sure, Phil, of wanting to be independent… but now, I'm quite certain in the opposite direction."

Phil sat down beside him. He looked at Dan and laid his hand on his shoulder. "I just want you to be happy, Dan," he said. And it was the truth. How hard had he tried all these years to make Dan happy… He loved this curly haired, doe-eyed man so dearly, but he couldn't fight all his battles for him. The solo tour had probably been good for Dan. Or so Phil had thought. Apparently, it was still not what Dan wanted.

"Okay, we'll figure it out," Phil said, rubbing Dan's arm. The touch of Phil's hand was so important. So reassuring. It walked Dan back from the edge in his mind, to a more centered, peaceful place.

Suddenly, a sharp odor filled their nostrils.

"The noodles!" They screamed in unison as they jumped up and ran towards the stove.

"Well, those are ruined," Dan said, as Phil cleaned out the burnt pieces from the pan.

"So, now what?"

Dan and Phil looked at each other and said at the same time: "pizza!"

Dan got out his phone and ordered their favorite kind. "Half and half, large, original crust, Texas barbeque and the Sizzler. … What do you mean you don't have the Sizzler anymore? What?! Oh. Okay, well then, never mind." Dan hung up. "What the fuck! They don't have the Sizzler pizza anymore?"

"Dan, don't you remember? I made a big deal out of this, like, months ago."

"Oh, oh my god, you're right… How could I forget such an important piece of Phil-lore! Sometimes it's like I don't remember recent events, you know? Like, how is it 2023? It should be at MOST 2014. When I am in my head, right, I'm always on the edge of totally spiraling about these things."

"Yes, Dan, I know. You'll be on the ground again, moaning and groaning. OWW MY HEAAAD!"

"Shut up." Dan scowled fondly at Phil, who was laughing that ridiculous tongue-laugh that drove Dan wild.

Phil got out his phone and ordered Indian food instead. When it arrived, he got up to answer the door. Dan had retreated into a mood. Whenever that happened, it was best to just leave him alone and let it pass. They silently ate their food at the kitchen table.

As the weeks went on, Phil sensed that Dan was thinking about something. He would indeed lay on the ground, but it was more meditative than agony. Phil never wanted to influence Dan's free will, of course, but he did hope that Dan would soon make a decision.

It was late, and London was shrouded in a deep fog. Dan however, felt absolutely clear-headed.

Phil was absent-mindedly browsing on his phone on the living room couch. Dan suddenly pranced into the room and said:

"Phil, I want our gaming channel back. Wow, it feels really nice to have finally admitted that."

Something moved under the surface of Phil's eyes. He got up and looked at his beautiful cat boy.

"Are you sure, Dan?"

"Yeah." Dan sat down next to Phil and traced his arm from his shoulder to his hand, and took it in his.

"No, but are you really sure? I thought you had moved away from that particular branding."

"Fuck branding, Phil! It's our channel, it's our thing. Can't we do with it what we want? By the way, I was thinking about my last tour today, and when I saw our fans again, I realized something. They are unhinged, oh God. But I feel like we have built something special with them. They know this. We know this. We know they know. We can make Dan and Phil Games whatever we want it to be. Think about it, it would be like the Super Amazing Project but with a higher quality and one hundred percent us."

Dan looked into the deep pools of Phil's soul, that were his eyes. He saw excitement there. They both laughed.

"Phil… it's been so healing to see our actual audience. Yes, they are rabid, but they are also people who watched us for all these years, you know? Doing videos with you is kind of the foundation of our relationship anyway, and yeah, there have always been followers and subscribers, way too invested in our lives. But at the same time, they've been there with us all this time. They are the emo kids who looked at your zany video's and thought "yes, this is good shit." Well, so did I! And I still do. So, I was thinking… And I feel like we are at a point now, where we could just stop giving a fuck. We could just be our true selves. And not care! Phil, I can feel it. We're on the edge of something special, a new chapter in our lives. One that we write, ourselves."

Phil squeezed Dan's hand. "So, you're finally ready, aren't you?" He gave Dan a smoldering look. This took Dan aback , even though it shouldn't, as they had lived together for all of these years. But every time Phil pulled something like this, Dan would blush and be overcome with want and desire.

"Phil… I am so ready."

"Then let's do it. I am so happy you've come around to the idea! I mean, finally, I've been pitching this exact thing for years, but okay!" He laughed his dorky laugh again and caressed Dan's cheek. "I love you, you know that, right?"

"I do," Dan said while looking up at Phil. Dan did this often: even though he was the tallest of the two, he would slouch so as to be able to look up, and be the 'shorter' one, just like when they had first met. Phil could never resist him like this. Dan's eyes were warm, dark and inviting. It was exhilarating.

"You know what we should do, to celebrate this decision?"

Dan still looked up to him, caramel eyes conveying anticipation.

"We should go to Japan. Have ourselves a holiday. We can think about setting up all the business stuff of it after. It's an extra job, after all. Dan, let's escape and enjoy each other, enjoy Japan, then take this plunge back into the thick of it."

Dan jumped onto his lap and kissed him. "Yes, Phil, that would be so lovely. Let's book a flight, but first…" And he kissed him again. "First, I have to appreciate you."

[teetle-time]

Live or Die, Man, We Need Each Other (Part 1 of ???)

Shortly after the invasion, Leo and his brothers go on their first post-Krang mission: stopping a different ominous group of occultists from summoning a being of unknowable power from another (non-prison) dimension to wreak havoc. Evil never rests, after all, even if he and his bros should probably still be recovering from their last big all-out battle.

Meanwhile, Danny just wants to take a fucking nap.

Surely this won't turn into something absolutely massive in scale that sucks them all in.

(or, so do yall remember that Danny Phantom crossover that's been haunting me? yeah lol behold. throwing some ghost king danny in a blender with the rise guys and some classic tmnt tropes that rise never really got a chance to explore, with an eventual side of textfic/chatfic, jack and maddie fenton trying to be good parents, dani, the epf, the giw, roughly one and a half farmhouse arcs, rise-ifications of minor characters from previous tmnt iterations, and *checks notes* shelldon my son <3)

Not actually posting to ao3 right away this time I think- I kinda wanna polish/tweak this bit a lil more first, but I figured this first bit works well enough on its own! also i wanted to infect yall w/ the brainworms because a mere 8 dp-only xovers on ao3 feels like it should be illegal <3

〜

There was an electric charge in the air as Leo peered down at the cultists from the rafters.

Considering the fact that the charge felt like a portal despite Leo's lack of portaling intent, he would bet away his rights to the final pizza slice for a month that something was about to come through.

The cult below (not the Foot, shockingly enough) had chanted enough Latin that Donnie had gone pale upon checking his tech for a translation, so that 'something' probably wasn't good, either.

Just how Leo wanted to spend the end of his first full day off his crutches.

Really.

(Idly, he wondered if there was any point to being so bitingly sarcastic in his own mind when nobody could hear him anyway.)

He met Raph's eyes, then Mikey's, then Donnie's, each of them mirroring his own resignation and resolve.

"Veni ad nos, Rex inquieti Mortuorum!" cried the cultists as one. "Veni ad nos ut serviamus tuo glorioso proposito in mundo viventium!"

Leo opened the mind meld for a split second. Right, so I caught "rex," "mortuorum," and "serviamus." All in favor of sending these idiots to the Pain Train?

That got matching smirks from his brothers, and Leo grinned back before flipping down from the ceiling and dropping into the main mass of observing cultists. "Hey, guys, I think I got a bit lost. I was looking for the bathroom, but it looks like I found a bunch of would-be world-conquerers instead!"

The face of one of the lead cultists, the one at the head of the summoning circle, contorted into an expression of rage almost comically intense- and, to be quite honest, second only to Casey's extremely emotive face.

And then the rest of the cultists swarmed him.

Luckily, his brothers had only been a split second behind him, and the four of them wove between cultists with ease when possible and laid the hurt on 'em when slipping through wasn't an option.

"We gotta break that circle!" called Mikey worriedly. "Barry told me even circles half as ornate still summon things way above our pay grade!"

"We're getting paid?" quipped Leo, even as he zeroed in on the circle and slashed his katanas through the air. "What, we get an allowance now?"

No portal of his own appeared, his energy immediately flowing into the air just above the circle instead. Lovely.

As Leo inwardly rolled his eyes and just pressed further through the mass of people, Raph's crimson projection shot overhead. "POWER SMASH JUTSU!"

While Raph did successfully manage to bring his glowing fists down on the circle with enough force to shake the ground and knock the cultists nearest him off their feet, the circle only glowed an ominous acid green, completely untouched despite the now-massive cracks in the concrete around it.

The lead cultist laughed from where he'd fallen to the ground. "Yes! Yes! The King has heard our call and is coming to do our bidding!"

Leo watched in horror as the acid green crackled into icy blue, and as the temperature plummeted, an eerie voice rang through the warehouse.

"Uh, the only bidding I was planning on doing today was in an online auction for a rare piece of Dumpty Humpty merch."

What.

All motion froze, and Leo found himself gawking as smoke billowed from the circle before coalescing into…a white-haired humanoid teenager.

"And I'm pretty sure that auction just got sniped from me with 10 seconds left on the clock, but instead of getting the chance to snipe it back, I got yanked out here," snarked the teenager, glaring at the hooded cultists with eyes the same acid green as the circle had been.

One of his eyebrows lifted slightly at the sight of Leo and his bros, but otherwise he paid them no mind.

One of the cultists spluttered. "What-?! You're not the Ghost King!"

The teen's face went flat. "No, actually, I'm pretty sure I am. Wasn't planning on it, but, yknow, the old guy picked a fight with me a few years back. If it's him you wanted, uh…you're shit outta luck. I don't really do things his way."

The cultists all started turning towards the teen in anger, but-

One.

One single flick of his wrist, and the cultists were all encased in ice, save for small holes just in front of their noses and mouths.

That was all it took.

The teen groaned and dropped his head into his hands, some of the eerie reverb fading from his voice. "And today's a test day."

"Uhhh…" said Leo intelligently.

The teen stiffened, then stood up straight and scratched at the back of his neck with a sheepish grin. "Ah, shit, sorry about all this. Were these idiots trying to sacrifice you? Cultists have a tendency to do that, even though I keep telling them not to."

"Um, no…Your Majesty…?" tried Raph, his voice rising to a squeak at the end.

"Ugh, ew, please no." The teen grimaced. "You can just call me Phantom. Or my first name, but I'm not really sure I wanna say that out loud with these guys right here." He hooked a thumb over his shoulder at one of the cultists, who helpfully made a furious little peep in the ice.

"Fair enough," said Mikey, getting his metaphorical feet under him just before Leo could. He clapped his hands together cheerfully, and only Leo's lifetime of growing up with Mikey let him still see his younger brother's nerves. "So, are there any rules or anything for that summoning circle that need to be put into action before you can go back to your online auctions?"

Phantom shrugged. "I mean, technically if there's still somebody conscious around, I still have to make a deal before I can leave, but I'd be willing to get these guys to the cops with evidence of their crimes in exchange for directions back to Illinois."

Leo met Donnie's eyes. He could see the urge to ask Phantom every question in the English language.

Donnie shot him a pleading look.

Leo pressed his beak together thinly, then smiled at Phantom. "As long as that evidence doesn't include us four. And also my twin bro over there wants to be able to ask you things. Probably all the things."

"I can keep you out of it," Phantom agreed immediately. "I know what it's like to wanna stay on the down-low, trust me. Though…I probably can't stay very long, but I can make an email address so we can keep in touch?"

"That would be splendid!" declared Donnie, a grin already splitting his face.

"Sweet," said Phantom. With a snap of his fingers, the cultists and their icy cases shot out the door, the circle's light died, and a slip of paper appeared in front of Donnie. "Now, uh…how do I get to Illinois?"

Seeing Donnie preoccupied with entering the text on the paper into his systems, Leo went to pull out his phone, but Raph beat him to it, already opening up TelloMaps and showing Phantom. "Well, it's a bit of a ways away, but-"

Phantom's hands flew up to grab at his hair. "I'M IN NEW YORK?!"

Leo frowned. "Hey, what's wrong with New York?"

"Nothing!" said Phantom far too cheerily, already lifting into the air. "Except! It is an almost 900 mile flight and I have cl-uh, gotta be somewhere in under two hours! Gotta go, I'll keep in touch, can't stay any longer BYE!"

And he shot out one of the upper windows in a flash, leaving only a skybound sonic boom in his wake.

Leo blinked. "…huh. D'ya think he knows I could just portal him there, or…?"

Mikey visibly deflated into Donnie's side. "Ohhhmegosh, Barry's gonna lose it when I tell him about this."

"Woah, woah, hold on, who says we gotta tell him anything?" Leo asked.

"Bro, the 'old guy' Phantom mentioned?" Mikey quirked a brow ridge at him. "That'd be Pariah Dark, a violent ghost who ascended to the ghost throne right about when humanity was learning about this hot new thing called 'fire.' Barry taught me about it on, like, my second day of mystic training. Dude was so big and bad his subjects had to revolt and lock him up, like the Shredder on steroids except without the evil armor possessing him."

Donnie pressed his palms together and lifted them against his beak, the perfect picture of someone who'd just realized something horrifying. "Is the throne passed down through, perchance, a line of conquest?"

Mikey nodded. "But usually mystics tend to figure that anybody who could beat Pariah Flippin' Dark would be even bigger and badder than him. Except…"

Raph's face was turned down in a thoughtful frown. "He sounded…kinda like a normal human teenager our age. Except for the 'dead' thing. Did he actually mention Dumpty Humpty, or was Raph just hearing things?"

"If he'd known there'd been a change in power, Barry would've told me," Mikey continued. "Not just because I'm his favorite, but because he knows I'm just chaotic enough to think about trying bigger things on my own, and learning about the Ghost King is kinda huge."

"Only thinking, though, right, Mikey?" prodded Raph sternly.

"Scout's honor!" chirped he immediately.

"Is that even something we can say after we failed at being Todd Scouts…?" Leo trailed off.

"Casey made me an honorary Brownie Scout when she came to visit after the invasion and you guys were all out cold," said Mikey unapologetically.

"I wonder what happened 'a few years back,' and what a white-haired fellow teen from Illinois had to do with it," mused Donnie, helpfully bringing the conversation back around to the important bit.

"Betcha Hueso might be in the know," Leo suggested. "He's a yokai instead of a ghost, but being a skeleton yokai might mean he knows stuff like this."

"Let's get home before we do anything else," said Raph. "I can see Leo's legs shaking under his weight."

"What?" Leo protested. "My legs aren't-!"

Unhelpfully, his knees knocked together hard enough to draw his attention to where they were, in fact, shaking from the effort of holding himself up.

"Ah, crud," Leo groaned. "Never mind. I can still portal us home, though, at least."

"That's what I thought," Raph snorted. "Besides, I think this whole Ghost King mess can probably wait until we're all sitting down, if that's the new guy."

Mikey nodded. "Gotta give ya that. Barry'll probably still make a funny face, though."

"Eh, let him." Leo hefted himself up onto Raph's shell, then leaned to the side and sliced a portal open. "Vámanos!"

〜

As Danny streaked over Pennsylvania, he dug out his phone and started tapping at the email app Tucker had coded a few months back. It'd been mostly for laughs- who on Team Phantom even needed email when they all had Fenton Phones? and even regular phones, nowadays?- but it was just as secure as everything else Tucker made, and as it turned out, it was exactly what he needed this morning.

Better to have it open in the background so he knew when the purple turtle guy got around to emailing him.

Once he made sure he still remembered his password, he pocketed the phone again and pushed himself a little faster. He'd clearly gotten faster since the last time he'd checked- the sonic boom was honestly his first clue- but he couldn't keep that kind of speed up for very long yet, and he was still over…looked like Ohio, now.

Oh, wait, there was a 'welcome to Ohio' sign just up ahead- and he passed it.

Now he was in Ohio.

All that to say, he still couldn't afford to slow down in distraction for very long if he wanted to get to class in a bit more than an hour.

As if waiting for Danny to think exactly that, his phone buzzed.

He tugged it back out to check, and it buzzed again in his hand.

The first notification was a text from Jazz: 'I saw you weren't in your room just now. Fight or flight?'

The second was an email from an alphabootyyyshaker9000@geniusbuilt.com- an email that seemed more like an essay, if the shortened version in the notification meant anything.

Danny grimaced, made sure he was aligned with a highway down below so he wouldn't drift off-course, and tapped out a response for Jazz.

'flight. bookin it rn, p far. tell u later, but im ok'

She responded with an immediate thumbs-up and smiley emoji combo.

"Never change, Jazz," Danny huffed with a grin.

Then he tried to look at the email.

'Tried' being the key word.

Luckily, the purple turtle had prefaced his email with the sentences 'You are welcome to answer this once you have the time. You did mention being in a rush at the moment.'

Relieved, Danny shoved his phone back in his pocket and turned his attention towards his own personal Get-Back-Home 100% Speedrun.

[shatterthefragments]

8 questions game

Thank you @ongreenergrasses for the tag!

3 ships:

Shipping the Polyvessel characters 😘, Hardison/Parker/Eliot, and Andy/Quýnh (most combinations of the immortals if I’m being completely honest)

First ship:

You know. Despite the impulse to say it was destiel, I was into manga first. Before I had internet access at home and all - which was when I first ran into spn. My VERY FIRST ship was most likely Kenshin/Sanosuke from Rurouni Kenshin (first manga I ever read) or possibly Kurama/Hiei from Yu Yu Hakusho (the second). (Followed shortly by shipping the entire Urameshi Team together ✌️✨)

Last song:

I thought it would be Blood Sport, but I was listening to the whole Sundowning album while doing some chores yesterday so I stopped during Take Aim. At time of posting: Boston Manor’s Floodlights on the Square. Updated with actual song playing at time of posting :P: levitate sleep token

Last movie:

Any Other Way, the Jackie Shane Story (documentary)

For a more fun movie: the last one I saw was Monkey Man (I had to look up when this and love lies bleeding came out to know for sure haha)

Currently reading:

…sleep token fanfiction? Might reread Martin Wilson’s What They Always Tell Us again. (This is a lie because I have a small box in front of it on my bookcase and I’m not going to move it.)

Currently watching:

Nothing? Er, no. I intend to rewatch II’s Hypnosis Drumeo video and it was the last video I watched?

Currently eating:

爸爸 made rice noodles with shrimp and leftover pork tongue/stomach. HOWEVER the leftovers are uh. Quite old and so I mostly just picked out the shrimp and hoped I wouldn’t get sick from them touching. (This is partially a lie bc I really love tongue so I had a few pieces of it before remembering what day they were cooked). Then I had a piece of pizza and the last tiny bit of a slice of cake. And an emergenC bc I am trying to make sure I get all my vitamins (didn’t have too many vegetables today either 😬) as my parents are recovering from covid and I’m not completely safe from getting it yet especially if I’m run down :P

Tomorrow: if I eat breakfast before leaving: eggs and maybe pizza; otherwise maybe a breakfast bagel and a nice latte from the cafe across from school :) hoping for the latte regardless.

Currently craving:

I mean. Nearly almost always: salmon belly sashimi. And wonton. A fluffy textured latte~ 💖

A good cuddle. To smush my face into a cat (ideally a silky furred one bc I find I’m less allergic??). To be able to make music (lungs are still recovering from being sick August and are currently also schrodingers coviding still so no wind instruments for me just yet (though I am slowly starting to regain the wind to sing a bit even if it’s jsut smooth and higher right now!!)) like FUCK!!! I could pick up a cello!!! (I cannot). To dance. To be able to just do the things I want to do without having to think Can I Afford This or Will It Fit In My Schedule? A nice not rushed time to have a candlelit shower (I can’t use my lotion candles yet though bc it’s only been three weeks since tattoo and they’ve been really slow to heal because of all the other open wounds from my recent eczema flare up (which I’m still. It’s healing but I pick at scabs so.)). A nice intentional slow day for painting. For having a stroll by the ocean. To figure out GarageBand to maybe start on a shitty(?) recording of one of my songs or a cover or something. STRING INSTRUMENTS. an organ… to hold someone’s hand. (An animal’s paw would also work even better if it’s a sweetheart that likes putting its paws on my hands and has fur that brushes up and jsut. Being trusted with their tiny little paws 🥹) immm. This got away from me a bit. After it being the hardest question I left blank for a while. To spoon and be spooned.

But also. 👀 FUCK what if it WERE possible to make a big trip to the states to get a calligraphic partial leg sleeve from a calligraphic specialist tattoo artist before they retire from tattooing?! (I do not have money for this with all the other stuff I’m doing. But. What IF? Maybe if I manage to save a few thousand before Christmas (this will never happen 😭) but like. Happy birthday to me ~ that time of year??)

Tagging: @branches-in-a-flood @elkkiel @ghoulangerlee @huntingteeth @hookedhobbies @polteergeistt

[memes-in-a-half-shell]

Villain AU - Deadlock, Part 3

Part 1 || Part 2 ||

Shorter chapter! Trying not to spend too much time on them :) I just want to go wild, ya know? Write some stupid shit!!! I'm having fun with this, so that's that 👏

She wasn't a nobody, he could at least give her that!

When going through her computer, he did find several emails, one of them consisting of an invitation to a party on this coming weekend - on top of a building close to where the 7th Avenue and Broadway were crossing. It seemed to be a social event for influencial people, may they be good or bad names. This would be the perfect opportunity for the broker to extend her name and services to some higher crowds! Donnie admired the hustle and entrepreneurship, but he knew that if she wasn't stopped nor steered, she could be quite a force to be reckoned with.

He disclosed his plan to his brothers, wanting to go meet her at that event. It was simple; take her aside for some talks, persuade her to hand over the information about the Foot investors, then recruit her for her services.

"Yeah, but do we have money?" questionned Mikey. "If that's what she does for work, we can't just have her empty her pockets for our cause. That's not fair."

"Although I'm not too keen on this whole situation, Mikey has a point," added Leonardo. "We have nothing."

Donnie sighed, knowing he couldn't keep his funds a secret anymore.

"You guys have nothing, I do."

"Watchu mean 'I do'??" questionned Raph with a frown.

The tall terrapin did unenthusiastical jazz hands: "Freelance work." He then brought a holo screen of his account. "I actually need to get some money back in ... that girl ain't cheap."

"Dude, fuck that, buy us pizza instead!" joked Mikey.

***

Vee wasn't usually enthusiast about social events, but she couldn't deny that this would be the perfect opportunity to seek out new clients and mingle around for some juicy gossip and any kind of information. She usually didn't mind dressing up for parties, her black dress simple enough and her gold necklaces a simple addition, but something about people's gazes during the evening made her wish she had dressed up more...

After conversing with points of interests, the woman decided to take a drink aside and headed towards a part of the rooftop that was more secluded. The much needed peace calmed Vee down, sipping her glass of wine as she looked over the city's lights and traffic down below.

"That's not very clever, you know?"

Vee was on high alert as she heard a voice echoing from the shadows to her left. Turning around, she finally spotted a form coming out and making its way towards her; none other than that turtle man she had seen at that Foot tower. She didn't say a word, slowly backing up as he kept coming closer.

"That tattoo of yours on your chest," he continued, still getting closer. "I clearly saw it that night, and now you're displaying it as well this evening. Quite recognizable, to be honest."

"How did you find me? What do you want?"

Vee finally bumped against a railing, feeling New York's hot breeze caress her upper back and hair. The tall mutant was now so close, she somehow considered jumping off the balcony … if only it wasn't way high above ground. The male finally got her calling card into view, an amused look on his face.

"I'd say you did good work with that for the average joe, but I was still able to get that fake tracer to link me back to its root. I'm suspecting you finally noticed my presence in your stuff last night, judging how quick I lost connection. Let me guess, you disconnected your router?"

Vee quickly got the card out of his hands, annoyed.

"Okay, you answered my 'how did you find me' question, now answer my next one."

One of his hands rested at the railing, right beside her, slightly towering the woman. He wanted to come out as intimidating, somehow, but he could also not dismiss his curiosity.

"… I wanna know who you are exactly. What's your deal?"

Vee left a quick chortle: "As if I'm going to lay all my information bare to you-"

"You seem quite capable with technology," he continued. "I'm just wondering why you're using it that way. … Selling information to the highest bidder can be a dangerous game."

Vee played her flirting card, taking advantage of the proximity. She slowly fiddled with his mask's tails, sneakily displaying herself in an enticing way.

"Money talks, turtle," she answered smoothly. "Taking leaps is what makes the world go 'round, I'm sure you know that. I do what I have to do in order to survive in here."

The mutant slightly gulped, taking a second to enjoy the view. He finally straighthened his stance, taking her hand so he could stop her motions at his tails.

"Until you land the wrong information into the wrong client's hands," he said. "… You don't have to play this kind of russian roulette. Your work could have way more worth in authority's hands."

The human puffed a quiet laugh, getting her hand out of his hold.

"I know how it goes, turtle. The police is slow and getting any freelance investigation their way can actually damage their precious work. They barely get anything done in reasonable delays. Meanwhile, my way is efficient for anyone who needs the information. I don't care where it falls – as long as I get paid, that's the only worth I'm looking for."

"Then why did you ask information about project Renaissance?"

Vee's eyes squinted: "... HookedOnCoffee?" she asked.

"You bet, smooth criminal," winked the terrapin. "I wanted to test you. I was there when you did your little escapade to the police station; you seem full of surprises."

Her gaze was now frowning, looking the mutant up and down.

"... H- How were you there and I didn't see you? You're a freakin' giant turtle!"

She stopped herself and the other before the subject was continued.

"You know what? Pause. ... I'm usually pretty alert to my surroundings when out and about, and the only trace I leave from time to time is my calling card, either for shits an' giggles, or for potential new clients. The fact that you found me and were able to hack into my computer in very little time is just ... " She next poked at his plastron with each words: "You're. Being. A. Creep. Right. Now!"

She next took a long sip of her wine, her eyes wandering and next noticing the shapes of three other turtles hanging and waiting on another rooftop.

"Great," she sighed, vaguely gesturing in their direction. "The whole cavalry's here..."

"You don't have to be freaked out," said the terrapin next. "We're here because we want your help."

Vee paused, half a smile coming to her lips.

"Let me guess.... you want the info I took from you guys at that Foot tower?"

"Primarly, yes, but ultimately I believe that your expertise could be beneficial to our cause."

"Which is?"

"Bringing the Foot clan down, once and for all."

That brought a laughter out of the woman, confusing the other for a moment.

"You do realize that I sometimes steal from them? They're often my main bread and butter," confessed Vee. "And if they were to vanish, another organization is gonna take their place. I'm talking about the Purple Dragons, mainly. I could be generous and think of other clans, but that'd be too generous."

"And you're okay with having potential crimes on the conscience when completing work that involves the Foot?" questionned the male, sourly.

"C'est la vie!'' shrugged the human. "Eat or be eaten. I do whatever I have to do and I'm okay with that. ... Why should I care about others when all they've done to me for the most part is spit on me?"

That seemed to garner some sympathy from the turtle, his traits now softer.

"Look... I'm not here to threathen you out of your work," he started, calmly. "I believe you have great potential and it'd be a shame to have yourself get in trouble because of some poor choices."

"You don't know anything about me."

"I know! I know... But I want you to consider being a better person in this."

Vee was silent for a moment, contemplating his words.

"... I'll think about it," she finally said, ligthly swirling her wine in a thoughtful manner.

"Good! If you ever have an answer, you know where you can find me." He next extended his hand for her to shake. "Name's Donatello, by the way."

Vee considered the gesture for a moment, ultimately bringing her hand into his. The size difference caught her off guard for a split second.

"Call me Vee," she replied. "... And I must warn you, monsieur Donatello; do not log into my computer again, or else I'll find you and it won't be pretty."

"I'll respect that warning," smiled the terrapin.

The woman next handed her glass to the mutant, starting to make her way back to the party.

"Enjoy the wine, I'm guessing you need it too."

Indeed he did, taking a long swig of the drink and then watching Vee walk away. He could still feel the ghost of her hand in his...

***

Vee spent the next few days carefully combing through the Renaissance project's files. One detail she did find interesting was in regard to that alien substance - nicknamed the "green ooze" - that was injected into four turtles and one rat subjects. Basic tests had been conducted, but it had never been done to full extents, considering that the lab burned down and the chemical had been lost. Final reports indicated that traces of the ooze could be found running through the animals' veins, meaning now that retrieving the substance could be possible...

Now knowing that this Donatello guy potentially had eyes on her online activities, she proceeded to create a thread all while making sure that the HookedOnCoffee account was blocked. She silently thanked the moderators for not including an activity feed for any created accounts, allowing for things to escape possible radars or lurkers.

Her post was clear and simple:

Potential retrieval of the lost ooze from Project Renaissance.

Possibility of getting my hands of some of the alien substance lost in the Sacks facility fire. Uses may range from medical to superhuman enhancements. Starting bids at 1 million. Serious offers only.

And so the wait started. Or at least it would give her enough time to actually figure out how to obtain such ooze in the first place....

Thinking back at Donatello's offer, that seemed like her only point of entry for such an opportunity. Sure, she couldn't just come out of nowhere and whip out a needle and a vial to get some blood out of him. ... She would need to build trust with the mutant - something that seemed a bit far fetched at the moment, considering that he might mostly want a professional relationship first and foremost.

She allowed some time to pass by, completing chores around her appartment and getting some food prepared. It was only when she got back to her desk with a quick dinner plate that she froze at the thread she had created.

Last offer was going up as high as 10 millions...

Seeing that no one had outbided that for some time, she closed the deal, getting in contact with the winner.

smooth_criminal: You better not be talking shit for offering such a large amount of money. FuttoGyangu: My boss is very interested by what you are offering. smooth_criminal: I do not have a current ETA on the retrieval. I need to confirm some details before starting the operation. FuttoGyangu: To confirm our interest, we will forward you 500,000$. Keep us updated.

Vee blanked for a moment. That couldn't be real...

FuttoGyangu: We have heard of your excellent work. Do not disappoint us.

She indeed received the amount, accepting it with a wide-eyed stare. ... ... Throwing herself out of her chair, she gleefully danced and stimmed around, celebrating this huge hit! Her head was spinning, her heart beating fast and hard. She couldn't back away now, she didn't want to disappoint indeed!

Swinging back into her chair, she completely disregarded her food, instead opening back her conversation with HookedOnCoffee. She shook her hands a little before writing, wanting to calm her nerves and not write any gibberish.

smooth_criminal: What's up. Let's meet up and discuss.

She could give him the Foot info, anything he wanted! Who cares!! As long as she could get into his good graces, that could only get her closer to her goal and that sweet, sweet money.

HookedOnCoffee: I'm guessing you finally considered my offer? smooth_criminal: Sure thing, pal. I'll be a good girl, I promise ;)

She snickered at her response.

HookedOnCoffee: I'll disregard the play on words :D ... State a place and time of your choice, I'll be there. smooth_criminal: I suspect you don't want to be seen much. I'll send you the address of a rooftop I like to hang out to. I'm free tomorrow night. smooth_criminal: I'll also bring some coffees and that delicious data you requested~ Gotta start on the right foot - unless you want to bring it down once and for all as well.

God she felt like such a smartass, quoting him from that evening at that party.

HookedOnCoffee: Ain't you a sweetheart... Forward me the address and I'll meet you there. HookedOnCoffee: And don't worry, I'll be alone.

Happily punching in the address and sending it his way, she next swiveled her chair around with a cheerful laughter. She couldn't deny being on such a high - yet the realization that she had now to prepare for this delicate mission brought her celebration to a stop.

Serious once again, she approached her computer, then opening a new web browser screen and shopping around for blood extraction equipment...

((Part 4))

[tenebraevesper]

Five Nights at Freddy's: Salvaged, Night 34: Madness

''I know I swore that this was the last time, the madness never ends up in my mind! I made a list, it makes me sick and I can't leave 'till it's done. I patiently await the day to pack my bags and run. On and on, I could never escape my fate! No, I'm never getting out! I know that this won't be my last time I'm losing sight. Oh, I'm losing sight…''

– Madness by NateWantsToBattle (Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria Simulator)

xXxXxXx

Springtrap glared at Connor, his eyes flaring up purple. The latter was standing on the stage, a smug grin on his lips and his arms crossed. He looked satisfied, as if this was just a game and he was the one who ended up victorious. However, he had no idea that this game was far from over.

''I am glad that you're here,'' Connor said. ''I already thought that you wouldn't even bother to appear and that I would have to find another way to draw your attention.''

He was mostly staring at Springtrap, only occasionally glancing at Sam. The latter had an uncanny feeling that, to Connor, she was only the means necessary to achieve his goal – in other words, bringing Springtrap here. Now that he had Springtrap's full attention, she wasn't needed anymore. A knot formed in her stomach and she stepped closer to Springtrap.

''It wasn't exactly difficult to figure out that you were the man behind this,'' Springtrap replied, a stern look on his expression. Connor stared back at him, his expression unreadable. It seemed as if he was expecting another reaction from Springtrap, but there wasn't any.

''To be honest, it took me a while to set this up, but the ending result is quite satisfying. As I said, I'm glad that you have managed to come here,'' Connor said, grinning.

''What do you want?'' Springtrap asked, frowning. Connor seemed tense as he heard the aggressive tone in Springtrap's voice. He didn't like it, but nevertheless carried on with the conversation in a pleasant, calm tone.

''Straight to the point,'' he muttered. ''Although, I don't think we should rush ahead. Why don't you take a seat? After all, I don't believe I have even introduced myself.'' He placed his hand on his chest and then opened his arms with a flourish as a welcoming gesture, saying in a booming voice fit for an announcer. ''My name is Connor Davis and welcome to my restaurant, Ricky's Wonder Shack, where fun and safety are guaranteed!''

''Not that you have managed to keep-''

''Have I asked you anything?'' Connor suddenly cut Sam off, glaring at her. His voice went from friendly to furious, and he was clearly angry about the interruption. Sam was startled, feeling chills running down her spine because of Connor's sudden mood change. He then grinned again, his voice calm and pleasant. ''That's better.'' He then looked at Springtrap, who was still glaring at him, his arms crossed. ''I assume your name is William Afton, isn't it?''

He was disappointed by the lack of reaction. He thought that Springtrap would be surprised, shocked or even astonished that he had managed to figure out who he is, or attempt to the deny it, but he didn't. Instead, Springtrap just glared at him, the glow in his eyes becoming even stronger.

''You're right, my name is William Afton,'' he said coldly. ''How do you know?''

''I have been spending hours searching for any information I could get on Freddy Fazbear's Pizza, and I have found an article about Fredbear's Family Diner, which mentioned the names of the two owners: Henry Emily and William Afton. Since Henry Emily was reported to be dead, my only conclusion was that you had to still be alive…'' Connor said, taking a look at Springtrap. ''Well, alive in a different manner. Nevertheless, it is impressive, what you had achieved. Who would've thought that this was even possible?''

''Why are you telling me this?'' Springtrap asked.

''Ever since I have figured out who you are, I wanted to talk to you,'' Connor replied. ''After all, I believe that there are a lot of topics we could discuss.''

''How about the fact that you have kidnapped a little boy?'' Sam said in an accusatory tone. Connor glared at her, with Sam shivering.

''Haven't I told you to keep your mouth shut when you're not spoken to?'' he said, pressing the button on his ear piece. Sam and Springtrap suddenly heard footsteps, with the animatronics from Ricky's approaching and surrounding them. Ricky, Quentin, Max, Dahlia and Virgil's eyes were glowing and they looked as if they were ready to tear Sam and Springtrap apart. Connor watched their reactions with amusement. ''I only need to give them a command, and I sincerely doubt that you can take them all out at once.'' He then got off the stage. ''Now, let's keep this conversation civil, won't we? I believe that everything can be explained and discussed.''

Springtrap glanced at the animatronics, knowing that Sam was in danger in case Connor ordered them to attack. He knew that, even if he tried to fight back, he was still outnumbered and would probably be overpowered. While Sam did have the black device that interfered with the animatronic system, he wasn't sure whether she would be able to deal with Connor, who certainly wouldn't care what would happen to her. Not to mention, he had no idea whether Connor made sure that the animatronics would be immune to the device. In short, they were trapped here and at Connor's mercy.

''Fine,'' Springtrap said reluctantly. ''Do you mind explaining us first why you had arranged this? Why did you kidnap that kid, only to release him later? I understand that it was a message to us, but still, it doesn't really make much sense. You could've done something else to reach out for us.''

''I have figured that this would be quite efficient,'' Connor replied. ''Not to mention, I needed to test out a few features on the animatronics, and this was the perfect opportunity. It certainly didn't disappoint, as I have complete control over these animatronics.''

Connor started pacing up and down next to the stage, occasionally glancing at Springtrap and Sam, his arms crossed behind his back.

''It was actually much easier than I had expected, and it certainly drew a lot of attention. You know, we actually had two birthdays today, so obviously, at least my co-workers would be focused on making those work, while also being overwhelmed by the demands of other patrons,'' he said. ''All that was left for me to do was to find a child that was roaming alone, without any parental supervision. Considering how many parents are either too naive or too ignorant about our rules, it wasn't that difficult to find someone. All I needed to do was to spike a drink with sleeping medication and let him drink it. Once he had passed out, I brought him into the room in the back. I assume that you are familiar with it, especially since you already know more than you should.''

Springtrap nodded quietly, him and Sam wondering where this conversation would go. Connor seemed to be rather satisfied with the response.

''How come nobody had realized that it was you who had done that?'' Springtrap asked. Connor snapped his fingers, grinning.

''That's where my actual  brilliance shines. You already know that I'm Ricky's actor, and so do all my co-workers. All I needed to do was to fool them into thinking I was in the Ricky costume the whole time, and it worked. I simply put the costume on a spare endoskeleton and sent it off. If someone unfamiliar with me saw me alongside Ricky, they would think that there were two different people standing in front of them,'' Connor explained, looking quite proud. ''Afterwards, all I needed to do was to recall the spare animatronic and put the costume back on, waiting until someone realized that he was missing. Surprisingly, it didn't take long for that to happen.''

''The article on the website said that the police had a description of the man,'' Springtrap said. ''Do you want to explain that?''

''Actually, I was the one who had raised alerted everyone about the missing child. I simply told them that I was worried about a boy who seemed to be sick and left him there for a second to look for his parents, but he had vanished,'' Connor said, shrugging. ''I made up a story about a man having approached him, essentially sending the police on a wild goose chase. Along with that, I also had suggested to put the article about the missing boy on our website. If anything, the manager would've been pressured by the police and patrons to do everything in his power to find a missing child, including having to put an article about what had happened.''

''However, that article was actually for us to see,'' Springtrap muttered.

''Correct,'' Connor replied. ''I assumed that you might be checking on what's going on here. Using the Ricky's Wonder Shack website was the most efficient way to send a message.''

''What about the cameras? I'm sure that the cops would've insisted on checking them,'' Sam said suddenly. Connor simply glared at her, but he didn't scold her, merely looking annoyed.

''I made sure they wouldn't record anything. After all, I did anticipate that, after the police officers show up, that they would demant to see the camera footage. The only problem was that there was none,'' Connor explained. ''Trust me, I have covered everything. Everything they knew was that an unknown man entered this building, and a while later, a boy had vanished. Meanwhile, I was Ricky the whole time, as everyone could testify, and I had also seen this ''unknown man'' approaching the boy, but he had left shortly after. I wanted to help the boy, but sadly, I had lost him out of my sight for a moment, and then, he was gone.''

''However, you'd still be questioned, since you were the last person to see that kid,'' Springtrap pointed out. Connor grinned.

''It's a tragic story, but it is believable, and it is also a good cover up. My own co-workers testified that I'm the only person who plays Ricky and that I'm the only one who has access to the back room and the rooms with the costumes. Of course, the cops did check the room, but they had no idea that there was another hidden room behind it. They had also seen a dismantled endoskeleton, which I explained to be broken, and that I was also the technician for the animatronics. They didn't question it,'' Connor explained. ''Not to mention, it can be quite hard to navigate while wearing a costume, meaning that it wouldn't be impossible for me to have difficulty noticing things that were out of place. In short, as a suspect, I was out of question. The police was already searching for the stranger.''

''So, why did you then return that kid?'' Springtrap asked. Connor chuckled.

''Isn't it obvious? All I wanted is for a message to be sent,'' he replied. ''Afterwards, I didn't need him anymore. Once the cops weren't paying attention, I took him outside to be found. He managed to sleep through everything, and I doubt he'll remember much once he wakes up. Not to mention, I needed the restaurant to be cleared, so I suggested to the manager to close it earlier, only to return once everyone was gone. I knew that you wouldn't resist coming here.''

''You're sick, you know that,'' Sam said furiously, ignoring the angry look Connor gave her.

''I don't remember asking for your opinion,'' Connor replied in a condescending tone. He then turned to Springtrap, a deranged grin on his expression. ''Although, I am interested in your critique. After all, if you hadn't taken my creations apart, I wouldn't have figured out that there was something missing. As a matter of fact, I can say that I had improved my work and I'm certain that you'd be impressed once you see it.''

''So, you want to say that you went through all of this in hopes that I would acknowledge your work?'' Springtrap scoffed, with Connor's eyes widening in surprise, then narrowing in annoyance. ''The reason why I had destroyed those animatronics wasn't in order to help you improve, but to show you have absolutely no idea what you're doing. You're a complete amateur, and rest assured, I have no interest whatsoever in your work.''

''Maybe I should've killed that kid,'' Connor said calmly, provoking Springtrap. The latter clenched his fist, his eyes flaring up purple as he glared at Connor. ''So, you want to say that you're suddenly against murder?''

''What makes you think that?'' Springtrap asked. Sam gave him a look of concern, but Springtrap was staring at Connor, who was grinning.

''There is only one way to have your soul trapped inside one of those contraptions – death,'' Connor said. ''Considering how Freddy Fazbear's Pizza has a history of murders and other incidents, it wouldn't be difficult to conclude that someone had realized that death means nothing and that there is a way to preserve life, which is why this person had set up those murders. This person is, of course, you, Mr. Afton.''

Sam glanced at Springtrap, who was observing Connor with a calculating look on his expression, crossing his arms. However, he remained silent, with Connor looking somewhat disappointed that Springtrap wasn't questioning him about his assumptions.

''I have to admit, I have also experienced death,'' Connor continued, satisfied to see Springtrap somewhat surprised. ''However, rather than being killed by an animatronic, I ended up losing my life due to a car accident, if only briefly. Nevertheless, even though I was eventually resuscitated on the operating table, I had never forgotten that feeling of treading on a thin line between life and death. It was quite fascinating, and ever since then, I had tried to recreate that feeling. Unfortunately, all of my experiments, expect for one, were a complete failure. Therefore, I was wondering whether you could help me, as you obviously know more than I do. After all, you did call me an amateur, didn't you?''

''Forget it,'' Springtrap replied, with Connor getting agitated. He briefly glanced at Sam, then at Ricky, who was standing behind her.

''So, this is how things are,'' he muttered, his eyes narrowing. ''Grab her.''

Sam cried out when Ricky suddenly grabbed her shoulder, trying to break free, only for Springtrap to suddenly react by punching Ricky and almost tearing his arm off as he attempted to pry it away from Sam's shoulder. The wolf animatronic staggered back, with Sam quickly stepping closer to Springtrap as he looked at the other animatronics who, surprisingly, didn't attack, then glared back at Connor.

''It seems that this has confirmed my assumption,'' Connor said, looking at him curiously. ''It is quite funny to think that an elusive serial killer would even care about someone's life. I have to say, Mr. Afton, having a morality pet can be quite a burden, especially if it's someone who'd prevent you from further research.''

''You know, I could use you for further research,'' Springtrap said furiously as took a step towards Connor, who backed away, surprised by Springtrap's sudden outburst. ''Too bad I have my own standards, which I can assure you, are nothing like yours.''

''Well,…'' Connor muttered, realizing that he was pushing Springtrap's berserk button. ''Of course I have my standards. However, I believe that sometimes sacrifices needed to be made to achieve something greater.''

''I guess that one of those sacrifices was Raven,'' Sam said, with Connor giving her an annoyed look, although he didn't look angry. Instead, he looked as if he was reminiscing of something. He then grinned.

''Bran wasn't a sacrifice,'' he said, noticing Sam's confused at look. He rolled his eyes. ''Bran Crawford was my old friend and partner. We both worked at the Machinations Factory and he was the one who introduced me to the haunted animatronics, or at least, to the rumors.''

''What happened to him?'' Springtrap asked.

''It was a tragedy, albeit also an accident,'' Connor said. ''I pushed him back during an argument and he hit his head on the corner of the table, eventually bleeding out. However, I have also managed to give him a new body, as his soul ended up getting connected to the Raven animatronic. I have to admit, I am rather proud of my achievement.'' He turned to Springtrap. ''Not to mention, this is what made me realize why those murders happened. As I already said, it is an incredible discovery.''

Springtrap snorted, much to Connor's confusion.

''You really know nothing,'' he said, his eyes suddenly flaring up purple as he glared at Connor. ''You have no idea how souls function, nor do you know anything about how they connect to animatronics. Your so-called experiments are all just the work of a madman who believed that he had managed to achieve something, but in truth, you've been acting like a complete idiot, thinking you were above death. In short, you have failed.''

''No, I haven't failed-'' Connor gritted his teeth, stunned when Springtrap suddenly cut him off.

''You are nothing. You don't deserve recognition, nor a chance to achieve what you had planned. All you just told me was complete nonsense. You're pathetic and delusional, and I feel sorry for your partner, who didn't deserve to die like this, nor have his soul trapped inside an animatronic suit,'' Springtrap told him, with Connor growing more and more agitated. ''Honestly, I regret having to deal with a madman like you.''

''Shut up!'' Connor yelled, with the animatronics suddenly activating. Sam got closer to Springtrap, holding his hand as Max pointed his cutlass at her. She was shaking, observing the animatronics' eyes, which were glowing brightly, all five in sync wih the system Connor had created. They were ready to strike, but it seemed to Connor didn't care at this point, as he was glaring at Springtrap with a look of insanity on his expression. ''You really think that you're above me?! You have have no right to judge me, considering what you have done! I was simply making you an offer, as I believed that you would understand what I went through, and this offer still stands.''

''You can be assured that, regardless of what you tell me, I'll refuse whatever offer you give me,'' Springtrap replied. Connor grinned.

''Oh, really? Considering what I just saw, I sincerely doubt you will refuse this one. You see, Mr. Afton, I consider Ricky's Wonder Shack to be just a place where we'd just discuss a few things, holding a simple conversation about our interests. I actually wanted to invite you to the Machinations Factory, where we could continue with what I had planned, as it's more fitting,'' he said. ''However, since you refused, I believe that I should clarify the conditions of my offer. You are free to come to the factory, but for every day you continue stubbornly refuse my request, one person will suffer. For every day you decide to ignore my warning, I will kill someone, and I don't care who that person will be. I'd prefer my victims to be children, as they're obviously easier to lure away.''

He saw the look of pure horror on Sam's expression, as well as the look of seething rage on Springtrap's expression. He simply smiled in satisfaction.

''I don't really believe that being responsible for more victims would put any weight on your soul, Mr. Afton, but I'm certain that your friend here...'' He looked at Sam, as if expecting something from her.

''Samantha,'' she muttered, realizing a moment later what he wanted to know.

''Right,'' Connor muttered, turning back to Springtrap. ''You wouldn't want Samantha to be burdened by the fact that she was at fault for more people dying. After all, she too seems to be a victim of circumstances. Do you really want to see her suffer?''

''No…'' Springtrap muttered, glancing down at Sam. In a way, they were cornered. ''Fine.''

''One more thing,'' Connor said, drawing Springtrap's ire. He glanced at Sam. ''Samantha is going to be present too.'' Sam glared back at him, but Connor ignored her. He walked back to the stage, with Sam and Springtrap noticing the animatronics suddenly stepping away from them. Connor then briefly turned to them. ''I want you to be there tomorrow evening. Now, please, get out of my restaurant.''

He observed them as they cautiously looked at the animatronics, who had stepped away to let them through, then walked out of the restaurant. He grinned in satisfaction.

In the end, I did get what I wanted. Besides, they won't regret accepting my offer.

xXx

''I'm going to kill him,'' Springtrap muttered, still remembering the smug grin on Connor's expression as he watched them leaving. He was furious, wishing he could've ended Connor's life then and there. After all, Connor was fascinated by death, so he probably won't mind experiencing another one. Angry, Sprigntrap kicked an empty can that someone left on the street, not flinching at the metallic noise it made as it bounced down the empty street. As he calmed down, he just felt sick to his stomach about this whole situation. He glanced at Sam, who kept quiet the whole time. ''Sam…''

''You were right about Connor being delusional, but what he told us was just another level of messed up,'' she said in a quiet, but firm tone, looking at Springtrap. ''On the other hand, it's not like he gave us much of a choice.''

''Honestly, I don't want you to be part of this, but you're right,'' Springtrap said. ''At least we know what he's planning to do. Even if Connor thought that he was the one in control, he did reveal a lot of information he probably should've kept for himself. He wants us back at the factory, which means that we'll have to deal with the Drawkills once again. Connor said that he has improved them, which means that we would have to find a different way to handle them.'' He sighed, frowning. ''In any case, I'm not leaving that factory until I find a way to finally shut it down.''

''Exactly,'' Sam said, with Springtrap giving her a curious look. ''Don't think you'll be alone in this. I would've accompained you regardless of whether Connor wanted me to come or not.''

''Of course you would,'' Springtrap said, tilting his head. Much to Sam's surprise, there was no sarcasm in his voice. ''I know, you probably expected me to continue protesting about you being involved into something dangerous. While I'm still anxious about your involvement, there's no doubt about me needing your help for this.''

''Right! We're in this together,'' Sam said.

Springtrap nodded, but as he looked away, Sam noticed that he seemed to be rather troubled. She felt bad for him, aware of what was going through his head. Rest assured, none of them was looking forward to their next encounter with Connor.

xXx

How did I get myself trapped in all this madness? Springtrap frowned, lying on the couch. Of course, going by the logic everyone uses, it's my own fault again.

He sat up, feeling angry. His eyes flared up purple as he remembered his conversation with Connor, not to mention the implications the latter made during said conversation.

I have never asked for this! Why would I even want another deranged person to try to copy what I had achieved? Springtrap sighed, frowning. This isn't the same situation as Elizabeth. Sure, she may have wanted to become my successor, but that wasn't too surprising, as her soul basically merged with the animatronic AI, so of course she would've done what the AI was programmed for. Not to mention, I wasn't exactly mentally stable either, so I didn't care that much about what would happen.

He leaned against the couch, a mix of irritation and despair making him feel sick again. He shook his head, trying to fight off that feeling.

Besides, I was the only one whom Henry condemned to Hell. Sure, it didn't last, and I did return, but I made different decisions for myself during these past weeks. Nobody expected me to come to this far, not even myself, but here I am, and I'm certainly not going to let anyone destroy what I had achieved.

He suddenly stood up, clenching his fist. Another thing that made him furious was the way Connor treated Sam. He saw her as someone expendable and every time Connor attempted to silence her, Springtrap wished that he could've just punched him in the face. What made it worse was that Connor believed that Springtrap would see him as his equal. Rest assured, he enjoyed telling Connor how insignificant he was. If it weren't for his antics at Ricky's, Springtrap wouldn't have bothered to find out more about him.

He may be attempting to compare himself to me, but we're nothing alike. He sighed, closing his eyes. Although, when everything is considered, I'm not better than him. After all, I have murdered more people than he probably did... He suddenly shook his head, frowning. Goddamnit, this isn't a competition! I made my choice, and I have made it clear that, despite the similarities, there is still a huge difference. If anything, while he may be inspired by what I had done, he still has no idea what he had gotten himself into, and I'm certainly not going to help him with that.

He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down.

''You don't have anything to say, do you?'' he said. He didn't really sense the presence of that spirit, but he did assume that they were listening. However, there was no response. He wasn't really sure whether this was a good thing or not, as he expected that kid to comment on the situation, even though he was happy to some extent that they didn't.

Now, the only thing that is left is to figure out how we're going to deal with Connor tomorrow. Not to mention, trying to explain Emma why we would be once again gone for the night.

Apparently, Emma was still awake when they had returned and asked them what they were up to. The two weren't really sure what to tell her, as they felt that they couldn't tell her the truth, but were afraid of her reaction if she found out that they were lying to her, so Sam went ahead and only told her the reason why they went there. Needless to say, Emma wasn't happy about hearing that they were at Ricky's because they read the news about a kid who had disappeared for a few hours. Springtrap could still remember the glare Emma gave him, as if this was somehow his fault. However, she didn't pester them with further questions, even though it was clear to all of them that this conversation would continue tomorrow.

What should I do?

Springtrap glanced at the door, wondering whether Sam was asleep. He was sure that he wasn't the only one who was worried about the current state of the situation. While he was anxious about Emma hearing him going to Sam's room, he still wanted to check on her, so he carefully opened the door and peeked into the hallway. He was surprised to see that Sam was already standing there, wide awake. She beckoned to him to follow her to her room, closing the door once they were inside.

''Why aren't you asleep?'' Springtrap asked as she sat down on her bed.

''I can't fall asleep. I've been thinking the whole time about what Connor told us,'' Sam replied.

''You aren't the only one,'' Springtrap said as he sat next to her. ''It seems that this whole situation is driving both of us crazy.''

''Yeah, but we can't allow this to happen. We both agree that we need to do something to make sure that Connor won't harm anyone anymore,'' Sam said, sighing and leaning against Springtrap. She felt exhausted.

''Exactly,'' Springtrap said, lifting his hand and caressing Sam's hair briefly. Both of them were stressed out, but he knew that the constant worry won't help them in the long run. He frowned. ''Not to mention, I do have my own personal reasons to deal with Connor.''

''I assume that it's because of what he told you; that he deserves recognition for discovering that there is a way to trap a soul inside an animatronic,'' Sam said, quickly adding. ''Speaking of which, why didn't you tell him that Bran's soul has abandoned the animatronic suit?''

''Don't worry, I'm planning on making it clear just how much of a mistake he made when he decided to involve me into his plans,'' Springtrap replied, his eyes flaring up purple. ''Besides, there is another reason why I'm so angry at him. You saw how lightly he treats death. He acts as if he's above it, as if it's as easy as falling asleep. I know I too have been arrogant when it came to that topic, but I knew that I shouldn't treat death as something trivial. It is not pretty; it's agonizing! Even though I knew what would happen after I had trapped myself inside the springlock suit, I admit that I was still afraid of death. A part of me was afraid that it wouldn't work, but I went with that plan regardless.''

''As you had already said, Connor is delusional,'' Sam said. ''He believes that he deserves this.''

Springtrap sighed, staring at the floor as if he was contemplating something. He then shook his head, his feelings being a mix of amusement and grief.

''Not to mention the pure irony of this situation,'' he muttered, looking crestfallen. ''This is how Henry, Charlie, those children and Michael felt whenever they had to interact with me.''

''Maybe, but I think you'll have to ask them about it,'' Sam said, with Springtrap glancing at her. ''In any case, you made your point. I know that it bothers you that Connor is trying to relate his experiences to you, but I think that is obvious that you two are nothing alike. After all, you were the one who has started the whole thing.''

''Thanks for the comfort,'' Springtrap said sarcastically. Sam rolled her eyes, then smiled.

''That thought should comfort you, William,'' she said. ''Sure, you shouldn't be proud of what you had achieved, but you still understood the implications of what you were doing. Not only that, but after you had returned, you showed regret for what you had done. Connor, on the other hand, is trying to blindly imitate what you had achieved based on a few assumptions. If anything, you showed to be a person solely because you refused to go along with his plan to continue murdering people. Not to mention, you also want to stop Connor for harming someone. As I had already said, there is an obvious difference between you two, and I have just scratched the surface level.''

''Thanks, Sam,'' Springtrap told her, with Sam looking happy to see him somewhat relieved. ''I guess I really needed a reminder to why why I'm still here.''

''I'm always glad to help you out. After all, you'd do the same for me,'' Sam replied. Springtrap nodded.

Whatever happens next, I will make sure to at least not lose sight of my own plans. After all, I have learned my lesson when it comes to this madness.

His eyes flared up purple, with a look of determination appearing on his expression.

I am still here.

Links:

#Previous Chapter

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#Five Nights at Freddy's: The Untold Story (Masterlist)

[lillykayewrites]

CHANGE ME CHAPTER THREE:

Warnings: None

Word Count: 2233

Let me tell you, the scariest part of this entire story... was signing my safety waver... but let's backtrack.

After I left the apartment, I headed over to the entire reason I moved to Utah.

'Fazbear's Frights: Fazbear's Entertainment'

Yep.

A horror attraction based on a pizza place with a dark past of murder, tragedy, sadness, and horror.

Yep. That's where I wanted to work...

As I pulled into the dingy parking lot of the attraction, I erupted with nervousness. Was it nervousness? Or was it excitement?.... I couldn't tell but it was almost teeth chattering badly.

   Exiting the car, I fixed my clothes and hair and made my way determinedly over to my existential doom.

With upon entering the building, I was hit with the smell of mold, gas, and an underlying odor that I couldn't quite place.

'What a shit hole....' I thought to myself as I closed the door.

Looking to my right I saw a door and reached for the handle, thinking it was the security office.

"Ahem. Wrong way. Down the hall and on your left is the office..." A voice said over the intercom.

Jumping in surprise, I looked around until I saw a camera with a blinking red light.

Well, that makes sense.

"I-uh! Sorry!" I yelled to the voice embarrassed by my actions.

Now knowing that wasn't the office and someone was expecting my presence, I followed the voice's directions

and made my way down the hall. I eventually made it to see the security guard that presumably talked to me sitting in a room that had a big window separating us.

      The guy smiled at me and waved me over to the door which was just a big opening in the side of the room.

Nodding, I made my way over to him,

"Hi, I'm sorry for our last short interaction! But I'm here for an interview?" I asked shyly, staring at the guard in the chair.

Chuckling a bit, the guy waved me off in understanding.

"Yeah, I was just about to close up actually. We close early on Sunday, but my boss told me you would be coming in for an interview! By the way, names Tommy."

He said, extending a hand out for me to shake,

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Tommy! My name is Y/N, and yes... I am here to apply for the night guard position."

Nodding, he looked me up and down with curiosity.

"No offense Y/N and I will be real with you for a second, but what makes you want to be a night guard, especially at any Freddy Fazbear's establishment?" Tommy questioned with a smirk.

Now feeling caught off guard, knowing I didn't look the sort to want to be any kind of night guard at all, and of all places here.

I swallowed the lump in my throat and looked up at the taller man in front of me,

"Well...I have my license in private security, but truthfully...I want to see what all of this local legend is all about.  I want to see how much is all myth. Plus I might enjoy a bit of the fun by saying I work at the only Faszbear's establishments and tell about the horrifying hauntings!" I said with as much confidence as I could muster.

Tommy laughed, nodding along with what I was saying. his tilted his, smiling at me like he was searching for something but couldn't find it.

He finally just leaned his head back as he relaxed into his rolling chair

"Well, to be honest, I just started working here as the day guard...

Keeping watch of things in this dinky place, it's the most boring, but alsomet time-relieving job ever! But, if you are a night owl, I would suppose the night shift is too," he said nonchalantly taking a bite of what looked like a croissant.

"A night owl I am..." I said chucking, "So, I get the whole day guard thing... with all the people and just keeping them out of props, but why is there a night guard position? What is there to guard?" I inquired.

"Well..." Tommy dragged, as he finished chewing. "Pretty much the same thing...So people don't come stealing or touch anything. Because believe it or not, the rumors are taken seriously, people out there really see what they can get their hands on. This blows my mind but...I guess it's easy picking." Tommy laughed.

"I suppose! I mean, I told my neighbor I was going to apply and she flipped just hearing the name of the place. So I guess it does carry weight to its name."

Tommy put up a hand, gesturing to what I had said to emphasize his point,

"That's why we have a night guard."

"Which speaking of," I continued. "What do I have to do to get the job?" I questioned.

"You already got it!" Tommy chuckled with a mouth full of pastry.

"Oh... wow! Just like that?!" I asked astonished.

"Yep." A smirk came across his lips. "No one was going to apply for it, so you got it."

Nodding slowly with a big grin coming across my lips, I looked at my new coworker in joy, "Well thank you so much! I promise not to disappoint!" I giggled.

After Shaking Tommy's hand, I pulled away to sign the contract that officially said, "I would be working for the Fazbear Franchise."

Without even reading it; I signed the form.

Handing it to Tommy with a grin, he took it back.

He studied thoroughly, taking in the fact I just signed the Fazbear safety waiver without care.

With a change of expression, his face went grim. Suddenly, he tossed me a small object. Catching it before it hit my face, I snatched it with my small palm.

Keys.

"Since this is the job of your life...You can start tonight. Lock up the place so I can go home. On Monday evening, come in before eleven thirty and your uniform with be on your desk."

All of a sudden, Tommy's mood switched.

He dropped the friendly persona and a disdainful look overtook his tired features. Grabbing his stuff he waltzed out of the room, bumping me as he passed.

"Glad to know there's going to be a foot up your ass from now on..." I sneered, turning back at him with sass.

Yelling through the plexiglass, he stared at me with an irritated but a disappointed expression,

"I don't know why you applied, but it's not some fun girly playtime...it's- ugh! It's a night guard position! The worst part is Y/N...You just signed your life away to this shitty company..." Tommy whispered the last part, looking incredulously at me and shaking his head. With that, he briskly turned and left, exiting the building.

Standing there in confusion, babbling as I was trying to find words for that strange, and dare I say and out of the blue encounter.

   Not caring anymore, I sat my stuff down on the desk and blew off the remaining croissant crumbs that clung to the table because of the moist environment.

"Well isn't everyone just peachy in this town?" I said, dripping with sarcasm.

Not putting any more thought into it, I just brushed it off. This industry had a dark past. So with it being the way it is, that is a huge factor in how people think about it.

Pulling into the rolling chair, I sat down and looked at the tablet Tommy was skimming over when he was checking the cameras.

   Flipping through the numbered cams still trying to figure everything out, I looked around for something to help me. A notebook was placed near the far left corner of the desk and was flipped open to a page with scribbled handwriting,

'1-5 of training tapes are on message box on phone, tell Tommy to listen to them before Monday'

"Convenient~" 

Smiling, I slid over to the phone that looked absolutely ancient. My grandparents used to have one as a house phone so it replays the messages they missed during the day.

It doesn't take a genius to know that there the red flashing button that reads, 'Missed Messages' meant that you were missing messages!

So I clicked it, and the guy on the other end sounded like his only language was surfing and Mary Jane. And he was a hundred times more excited than Tommy sounded about working here.

Leaning back I wondered the soul's reason he wasn't, all that motivated, but then again, who is...

   I kept listening to the messages, as he went through what to do, and how great of a job I had.....

and then my ears perked up at one specific sentence.

"But dude! I have a huge surprise! We found one, a real one!"

"A real what?!..." My pulse quickened as I looked for the repeat button.

I replayed the tape and listened to the petty excuse the guy threw out, saying he had to go. He wasn't supposed to disclose that information, but, it didn't matter now.

I looked over the cameras once again and saw nothing.

  "Where would it even be?!" I scanned the tablet frantically.

Then I saw it.

The door!

The large grey door that I had tried to open before Tommy stopped me. That was where it was! It was right by the exit and conveniently so. With that, I picked up my stuff and the keys to the building and walked out of the office.

  As I made my way through the hall, I suddenly felt a strange sensation alight against my forehead. It was like a pulsating sensation, and it was almost bad enough to be a shitty headache.

"They need to air filter this place or something... the mold is unbelievable in here!" I muttered rubbing my frontal lobe trying to get the annoying feeling to tame down.

"It's just your allergies... it will go away when you leave." I sighed lifting my head now walking with purpose.

I made it to the large heavy grey door from earlier. I stared in front of me suddenly feeling the sensation in my head grow to a level I could hear my heartbeat in my ears.

Mold my ass...

I reached for the handle and turned its rusty knob. It screeched but it didn't budge.

"Of course..."

I jiggled the handle once more, before running my thumb over the key hole.

"I have something for that!"

Rummaging through my purse, I pulled out my lone but lucky bobby pin. Grinning from ear to ear I aligned the Bobby pin into the key hole.

"Come on buddy, don't fail me now!"

Pushing the pin in, a sharp click sounded from the door. I quickly stood up, and pulled my Bobby pin fro the keyhole and put it back into my purse.

"I still got it." I chuckled softly to myself as I turned the rusty metal knob letting the heavy door creak open.

  I was met with darkness, it enveloped my vision. It took a moment to adjust my eyes but it didn't take long before I could see.

There. There it sat.

In the darkness, the room's only illumination being the dank hall light in from behind me.

But I could still see an old, mangled, and torn-looking rabbit.

This was the "real one"...

Stepping into the room, I approached the rot colored animatronic, and unexpectedly, I was also met with a horrid...debilitating smell.

I lunged back in repulsion.

"Holy fucking shit... oh- oh my God..."

This was odor I smelled earlier, only this was intensified by a hundred. It was secreting the odor as if you could see the waves of it come from the suit .

Along with the smell, my head felt like it was about to explode.

Something wanted me here. Something wanted me to find this. I remembered from my classes with the medium, the ways spirits can communicate are strange and sometimes sensations are how they do it.

   I flipped on the switch by the door and I nearly gasped. Looking at the disheveled suit, I shakily pulled out a picture from my pocket. It was a picture of two happy-looking men standing proud in front of their animatronic creations.

The first man was a built and the gruffer looking of the two. He had broad shoulders, a beard, and he wore a checkered flannel, proudly standing in front of a golden bear.

Henry Emily... one of the co-founders of Fazbear's and originally the creator of Fredbear's Family Diner.

The second man, however, was much leaner and charming looking, but something about it seemed off, he had dusty brown hair and a large smile that seemed just a bit to big for his face standing in front of a golden rabbit animatronic.

William Afton.

The second and main co-founder of the two of Fazbear's entertainment and the founder of Afton Robotics.

Looking back down at the rabbit, I squinted my eyes and tilted my head with a small smirk.

It was him.

It was undoubtedly him.

Pushing the picture back into my pocket I crouched in front of the horrendous -smelling robot and stared into his lifeless eyes.

"Good afternoon Mr. Afton..."

[unwritten-fanfiction]

Idea for a scene from a Fairly OddParents/FNAF fanfic I haven't written yet

Although this is better described as Game/Film/Food/Style Theory fanfiction more than anything.

(This takes place years after FOP, so Timmy is an adult when this scene takes place.)

Tom Robinson: Game Theory William

Forrest Lee: Film Theory Michael

Santiago "Santi" Massa: Food Theory Jeremy

Amy Roberts: Style Theory Cass

MatPat Ness

Enjoy whatever this is:

Sparky’s Diner

It was a slow time at Sparky’s Diner. Not unexpected or anything. After the lunch rush, 

but Jeremy knew that the dinner rush would come eventually. Until then, there were a couple customers, who had been patiently awaiting their orders. Jeremy spatulated two eggs on the plate next to the freshly toasted bread, and added the exotic butter on top of the pancakes, then he took a couple red plaid napkins under the plates and carried the two dishes to the customers at the booth.

“Oh it's just such a shame Ness left this place.” The woman at the booth said.

“Yeah. You’re just not the same.” the man sitting across from her said to Jeremy.

“What?” Jeremy said. He was pretty sure he knew what this was about, but would check out of politeness and a desire for tips.

“Ness! He was so good with the customers, and the food.” The woman said.

Jeremy's blood boiled.

“It’s such a shame he’s no longer with us.” the man said, almost tearing up.

“Stop telling people I'm dead!” A voice came from the back room.

“Sometimes, I can still hear his voice!” the man said, wiping a nonexistent tear from his cheek.

“Yeah… so Ness still works here. He’s just the manager in the back office.” Jeremy said.

���Yeah, but he doesn’t cook the food anymore.” the woman said.

“Or serve it!” the man added.

“He typically wasn’t the only cook in the kitchen, and he still serves a lot on busy days.” Jeremy corrected.

The couple didn’t respond but rolled their eyes before starting on their food. Jeremy walked away to join his coworkers at the bar. William was drying dishes while chatting with Michael, who was taking this slow time to sit on the wrong side of the bar.

“Yeah, I just don't get it! Why?” Will was saying to Mike. 

“What don't you get?” Jeremy asked.

“Tim quit!” Mike said. “Yesterday he told Ness he had to take this security gig on the graveyard shift.”

Timothy had left?! This was a surprise. He had been a Sparky’s employee longer than Jeremy. 

“and we had just taught him how to make a conspiracy board!” Will said.

Jeremy remembered that from last week. Will, Micheal, and Ness had built a whole conspiracy board about how to make conspiracy boards. Tim had seemed… confused, to be honest. Jeremy couldn't blame him, most of the theories didn't even turn out true, much less make sense. 

“Wall-E cannibalism?” Tim had said to Ness, “you know that's a kids movie, right?”

The point wasn't to be true to canon though, it was to have fun making kids' media dark and melo-dramatic.

A little bell rang as Cass came in for her shift.

“Hey guys, sorry I'm late!” Cassidy said, holding her folded up uniform as she ran to the back to change. 

“No worries, Cass. It is dead right now.” Jeremy called after her.

He briefly looked over at the couple sitting at the table, hoping they hadn't just heard him say that. Oh well there he look, they were both staring right at him. Glaring. Jeremy probably shouldn't have said that. Whoops.

“Er, except for you two.” He corrected himself. 

Cassie came back to the front, still adjusting her uniform.

“You hear about Tim?” Jeremy asked her. 

“What? No?” Cass answered, eyebrows furrowed.

“He quit!” Mike explained. “No ill will or anything, he just wanted to do this other job really bad.”

“Yeah but it's a worse job!” Will said. “Nighttime security at Freddy's!”

“Freddy's?” Cass said. 

“Isn't that that old kids’ pizza place?” Jeremy said. 

“I thought that place closed down?” Cass said. 

“It did!” Mike said. “Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza Diner. Closed in the 80s.”

“Three kids went missing, and they never found the bodies!” Will said “I seriously think that place is haunted! I'm surprised there's even still a building to guard. It's burned down so many times!”

“You think it's insurance fraud?” Mike said. 

“It's at least insurance fraud! Didn't the owner die in one of those fires?” William said.

“Wait, so who's paying Tim then?” Cass asked. 

“Nobody knows!” Mike answered.

“I never liked the food there.” Jeremey said. “Pizza was bad, just no care put into it.”

“Hey, did you go there as a kid too?” Cass asked, face lighting up in nostalgia.

“Yeah, it was fun!” Jeremey said. “I liked the animatronics. My favorite was Chica.”

“Mine was probably Bonnie.” Cass said.

“I always liked Foxy.” Mike said.

They all turned to William, awaiting his response.

Will raised an eyebrow. “I’m not from America.” 

Everyone had an oh, right… moment as they heard his British accent.

“Also,” Will said with a chuckle “no one liked Freddy at the Freddy’s Diner?”

“I did!” came the familiar voice of Ness yelling from the backroom.

End of scene.

[thewul]

Sunset Creek Ahead

Chapter IX, Hitman on the loose

Chapter 9, Hitman on the loose At some point Lucy wants to stay in Hawaii, and the gray suit man, our hitman traces them because she used her credit card to make Perkins a dinner reservation surprise

As I laid on my thousands Dollars a night King size bed I closed my eyes, not to picture myself on a beach, to figure things out make them straight forward because it couldn't go on like that, for starters Mister Texan he is far from dumb, most of them are and those who think they aren't end up sorry for themselves, second Mister Texan he knows I have nothing to do with offshore oil, cooking oil or any oil

And so what does he want, he's rich but he could use some investments propose him that and cut to the chase, do you have something I could invest in, or he's playing cat and mouse because he found someone willing to be the mouse

It's probably funny how the mouse is trying to get out of it, so what does the mouse do, it flees the scene, could do that too but fleeing is easy, fleeing people, fleeing situations, it's all what you end up doing if you're not careful, rather than fleeing you have to think in terms of changing settings, remember life is a setting, its actually an always changing setting or a collection of them

That is it, turn the tables on him ask him tons of questions about his business like any good investor would, learn about oil as am going, who said having money is easy, you have to see the opportunity in the cards that you have, that guy can make me an oil expert right there, become him even

Next time I lie about being in the oil industry even rocks will believe it, with my new partner here Mister Texan, won't be a lie even, don't do not ditch your cards because you don't know what to do with them, that's not what life is about

And as I am asking him all these questions he will find out that I am not in the oil business, probably knows already, and I can tell him that I am sorry to have lied, because I don't know any better when people ask me about money matters, see a lie will only make you just that, a liar, but a lie and a sorry makes you honest

Roll your dices, and if they don't add up try again, sorry and trying never made anyone less it's quite the opposite

King Georges

Over the next few days I tried to look poor, slacks jeans and a beaten Hugo Boss navy blue t shirt, well used to be navy blue more like pale blue now, to the apparent because women know how to make things apparent, displeasure of dear Lucy, who valued the high life much better, and what I found out horrified me, no matter how hard you try to look poor if you have a lot of money it hangs around you like some kind of cloud, it smells like sardine oil after having sardines it won't go away no matter how hard you try

And the looks, the looks of the hotel staff, almost commiserating to my what my condition, my condition of having billions and trying to hide it, as if to say we have seen it all before, of course it's a world famous luxury hotel, we have seen rich people trying to get away with being rich and living happily ever after

That is until I met Georges, Georges is the Maître D'hôtel at the restaurant, oh how Georges looked me up and down, and then he paused and went, Sorry Sir that won't be possible, with his back on the half empty tables of the restaurant, and all my billions couldn't buy me lunch, not even a salad, not in the Kingdom of Georges, where class doesn't have a price tag on it

I don't know if Georges is also a mind reader, with a slight smile he suggested, But room service is possible if you are so inclined, yes Georges I am so inclined not to hunger with billions of Dollars, do you know Georges of the happy days when I used to twist the hot cheese of my leftover pizzas while watching TV on the couch, George would frown at that simplest of words, pizza, vegetables meat and cheese thrown over a poor man's bread, and hamburger, well forget what you know friend, a hamburger is not a tasty sandwich, it's an insult

But we can never blame Georges for being what he is, to the contrary we should admire what he stands for, how wealth is not just about having money, it is much more than that, you can have all the money in the world and never really belong to those for whom things are not a matter of how much, but of how few, not a question of whether they can afford something but of knowing how it is crafted, its history and value whether past or present, and essentially what standards they apply to their way of going about themselves, about business, people and the world

Wealth or poverty never elevated or diminished anyone, it only reveals who you are and what you are made of, and when you know that you know a lot

The simplest definition of a wealthy man is a skipper who knows how to steer his beautiful ship, and the simplest definition of a poor man is one who grounds his own self

Sopranos

Build the relationship with the Texan oil man here, for a week or so, oil man or oilman Do we want to do that go into the oil business or is there some other stuff

And things change with a phone call

Later in the evening

The phone rang for a couple of times, it could only be the one person who knew where I was, and so I picked it up

They want you dead, all four of them, Dillinger and the rest, 1 million bucks each Am paying double the money, You been watching the Sopranos? Deal? Deal, When and where? Not in Atlantic city friend Why not? Because you don't poopoo where you eat, I can make them travel You can? Yes I can, all I have to say is take back the money, and Gino Yes? Am offering you a new restaurant too, That's my boy, Wait Gino, what if they buy back those hits? 16 million Dollars? They don't have that money, we checked, Of course you did, Stay safe, arrivederci, Thanks a bunch Gino, Don't mention it

I put down the phone and crossed the 4 names on my list, as good as buried so help me God, money can't buy happiness but it sure could buy fresh graves, and it dawned on me why I put up with them all this time, well here we are now, getting stolen was getting them killed, on a losing streak and going all the way, it got to that point where you have all the chips and they're bluffing with a pair of 2's, but the tables do turn what nobody is telling you because they don't want you to be there when they do

That's crazy, you have people like that in life that don't know when they're done, they see that huge cliff in front of them and they have the pedal to the floor thinking they're going to fly over it like Indiana Joneses, and they see it happening but no, the guy that was there on the corner saying nothing got them all killed, the loudest one in the room is the weakest one in the room

I couldn't care more about their lives than for a pile of drowned rats, that still has some value if you want to go rats coat, oh Lord and the unclaimed mention on their toe labels, dumped out of state in some pond with the Grand Texaco Oil Barrel coffins model, been watching enough Sopranos to know

But it got serious, and if they placed those hits once they would place them again, no room for repeat business, I would do them twice just to make sure so help me God, in the end the police or whomever had to make the tie between 4 dead execs, an employee that bailed out and money that didn't exist which was a long shot especially if they couldn't tie me to the murders

All I had to do is to keep a low profile which wasn't an issue, the real motive was the money, without the money there was no case, no wait a second I was building the feds a case with those murders… They're going to start digging for the money like there's no tomorrow, that's what I would do, I grabbed my phone and started dialing

Si? Gino can we talk, If its about your money it's gone, you owe it now, Keep the money, Just put everything on hold and let them know that I bought it back, You're sure about that? Yes, it's going to scare them for good, Smart kid, That's all, thanks, Prego, And Gino, we'll be talking again if they still find more money somehow, Seguramente

Hello Sir? Can we talk? Go ahead You told us to let you know as soon as Dillinger puts up another contract And He did, he wants Perkins dead Let him know that I'll take it But Sir? That way he'll sleep over it, less trouble Sir can I ask you a question? Go ahead Why the interest in Perkins How is he different from the writer Is that all there is to it He reminds me of someone, anything else That will be all Sir Thank you very much, it's appreciated

Hey no listen you are going to have to stop wearing pink all the time But what am I going to wear? There's other colors you can wear, not pink you can be seen from a mile away But it's my favorite color! Look at me, do I look like a victim to you? And that pink poodle we don't need that either No way Billy Perkins! Well dye it in another color then

Chapter X, Let's go on a Cruise

Chapter 10, Let's go on a Cruise Perkins and Lucy bail in the first cruise ship available to anywhere, convinced that the hitman is still on their trail somehow, Perkins stays locked in his cabin mostly

Spends the time going over the cooked books? Need material about cruises, how it's like, ups and downs This chapter is the big unknown almost no material so far

Also going over Weissman's accounting Perkins ascertains that Lucy is right something real fishy is going on at Allstate, he sees much more money going in than out, he had known that it was a crooked company but now he could see why, VBE's the miracle snake oil product of Sullivan and Richardson, that was going 'to propel the company forward into record profits' was a complete scam paying nothing in premiums and millions of it were being sold all across the country

But how did they steal from Allstate well what do you know they pretend to pay premiums that either don't exist or are not paid, or they are but the money goes to an expenses account and back making it appear as if the recipients got their money, it's tricky and a lot of hassle to invent fake clients and their policies, it's much simpler to execute the provisions on existing policies where the paper chase is cut by the fact that there are no papers to speak of, Weissman is there to cook the books, you ask to see your policy record it's neat there's nothing there, but a premium for multiple sclerosis cancer has been swindled that looks not executed because old Weissman he just needs to trigger it, puts the trigger back to where it was, meanwhile they're selling millions of VBE's at discount prices that are a cash cow to them to keep the business running, policies that are good for flu medicine, skim the rest anything high end

Chapter XI, The Box

Chapter 11, The Box It's the unraveling of Dillinger & Co, the discovery of the deposit box contents, the cooked book of Weissman that he has Lucy mail to the FBI so that he can also set her up with a new identity as a federal witness, smart move that

The Banker

BBQ stands for Bahamas Bahamas Q Branch, which Perkins finds out when he recovers the cooked book from the bank's deposit box, BBQ is a code name for Dillinger and his execs, and others at the board, well for the thieves to sum up, a front company part of the numbered account package

Did you know about BBQ, I see that you are in the list of trustees Surely Sir But you didn't say I didn't have to I don't know about BBQ you don't say Precisely You're really something Mister Banker, these papers list a boat with Dillinger and there's a house also, listed with Richardson Where are they now? They're not here That is regrettable So? It doesn't change a thing to the fact that these assets belong to BBQ And who does BBQ belong to now? To the person that claims it That simple Of course, providing you can produce the by laws which I see that you do, Bahamas Bahamas Q Branch, BBQ The boat is mine? And the house

Can I ask you to make copies of this? But of course Sir, my assistant will take care of that for you, would you like to have coffee meanwhile? Yes yes very much so

It was the best coffee I ever had in my life, Java Timor got to remember the name, while Mister Banker made copies of Weissman's crap, that I was about to mail to the Bureau right next, see when you slam that door make sure the whole house falls to the ground too, else you're not doing it right

Mails the cooked books of Allstate to the FBI and waits

Crime Son

IRS

Mister Perkins you asked to meet us so here we are I know you're watching me How do you know that Mister Perkins Because I have eyes in the back of my head That's a good thing to have, and? You're after tax money on the 2.6 Billions We're after all of it actually, it's defrauded money It's money that don't exist So what exists Mister Perkins? 10% of that, 260 Million Dollars, your tax money 15% No can't do Why is that? Because they don't exist, but 10% exist And you get to keep the rest I already have it, deal? You're saying you have 2.6 Billions of defrauded money What does it change if you can't find them, do you want the 260 Millions or not? While they still exist Ok deal, how will you transfer the money? It's not money What is it then? Treasury bonds, I already bought them, I am not getting caught with 260 Millions in liquidity but you can have the bonds they're not nominative or anything You're a clever man Mister Perkins IRS clever It's appreciated 260 bonds, 1 Million denomination, counted twice Thank you Mister Perkins Nice day gentlemen Ah yes Mister Perkins one last thing, actually we are good at finding stuff and we reserve the right to pursue the remainder, in which case you will be charged for fraud, embezzlement and theft I know, I made sure we're not having that conversation, I do expect however that you won't spend all your time trying to find money for which I already paid taxes, nice day gentlemen

What do you think Walt, We won't catch him with as much as 20 bucks he can't justify, So why did he pay 260 Millions? Just like he said so that we don't spend too much time trying to find the rest, Paid in bonds too, Right straight from the treasury, I thought we had him there, Yes somebody taught him the ropes you don't walk into IRS with a suitcase full of cash, He's some weasel, It's something in his eyes, But he cuts an honest figure, They all do all the good ones nice home on the beach money on an offshore account, What about it, Well that's the guy, What beach, Abroad where we have no jurisdiction, Where could the money be? It's still in the Bahamas how else is he going to get 2.6 Billion Dollars out of there, He could have wired it from there, Wire it what for pay some percentages of it, it's not like any bank in the Bahamas is going to tell us anything, it's making them more money than booze on payday, But how did he get the 260 Millions in the US to buy the bonds, He didn't, he surely bought them through his offshore bank make it through customs no questions asked, a bond is a debt a treasury debt, the treasury took the money that's it game over it's got to pay it back, You're the man Walt you're the man, 30 years in the service son, We still can ask Bahamas banks about him, What are we going to say give us your Bahamas Dollars? It's Bahamas Dollars? What did you think, Holy cow, He's far from dumb, that's it if he doesn't do anything silly

FBI

Gentlemen first I would like to say that I am deeply appreciative of the work that you do to protect us and keep us safe, even this investigation What did you do with the money I understand that you are trying to prove that I stole the money deposited by Dillinger on an offshore account in the Bahamas So you know, go ahead where's the money I also understand that you have to find an answer to that question because your whole case depends on it What do you mean No money no case You think you're so smart Anything else gentlemen? It's not over Perkins In that case I will have to report you for pursuing an investigation without proof, cases cannot be built on assumptions It's not an investigation we're just talking It's incredible the work that you do, keep up the good work Keep paying cash Will do You sent those books didn't you to put him behind bars Is that what you would have done? Am not a criminal Neither am I That is it, thank you for your time Mister Perkins Welcome, nice day gentlemen

Can you believe that guy But how he doesn't even have a criminal record He's a con artist I seen it in his eyes the moment we brought him in that's why he agreed to start with, no lawyer no nothing Well he's still the prime suspect Don't you get it? He doesn't care if we think he's innocent or not, he made sure nobody ever finds that money! So what's next? We have nothing on him, it's only IRS that is going to stay on his back for that taxpayer money That he's spending in cash He might even cut a deal with them offer them money, look you know something is better than nothing, con artist talk all the way Did he steal 2.6 Billion Dollars again? Minus what he's going to propose to IRS, probably did already We've just met crime son John wait, why did he even bother showing up here To make us feel bad Make us feel bad? About spending years trying to nail him when we got worst stuff that's piled up to the roof already True, I did nothing but steal from a bunch of thieves, you have them, they're killers on top of that, drop it that's the message What do we do? What can we do Indict him! On what grounds, where's the proof We can trace him to the Bahamas! So what he visited the Bahamas, millions do every year, that's it, it's a dead end, he came here to show us the sign save us time, just him being helpful, probably is too No we can't let him get away with it! Are you kidding me, it's hundreds of thousands if not millions that got denied care because of the Allstate scam, nationwide, that he put out of business for good, he may as well have that money by my book But?! He's right junior, we're not closing the investigation just not spending time on that guy, too smart plus he knows what he's doing, listen you're just getting started with law enforcement, there's stuff that you let slide for the simple reason that's how things are, no harm done, the sooner you learn that the better

How do you put down a big fish like Dillinger, with a contract, he has money, knows people, it's not the way to go about it, but Perkins makes it back to the Bahamas bank on a hunch he's got the key to that safe deposit box he didn't even go through, could it be the way out of the situation he's in, basically that Dillinger and others at Allstate have put contracts on him, they still have a lot of money, especially Dillinger who is bent on killing him, and in the box is the books that Andrew 'Cook' Weissman has cooked for Allstate enough to put Dillinger and his people behind bars for the rest of their lives, because old Dillinger he pays hit money from that offshore account same as cab receipts, just another expense, Allstate goes down and Allstate is huge, for fraud, and the FBI wants to know how a million bucks got paid and to whom a few days before Richardson got killed by a professional, and Dillinger what does he do, he just smiles, he's not upset or anything he played, he lost, he folded

Chapter XII, Sunset Creek

Chapter 12, Sunset Creek Takes the Lady Belle from Montego Bay to Costa Rica, anchors in a bay there, becomes interested in the people of a fishing village nearby, settles down and marries

So yes Lady Belle is the name of the sailship in our novel

[flipsidcd]

meet carson brennan, a drummer and grocery store cashier who lives in the arts district of ashmore. he's 26, born 06/22, making him a cancer - which makes sense, he is pretty careless and cheerful. he's originally from carson city, nevada; i wonder if he'll stay in ashmore for long ― owen patrick joyner, bisexual, cis man + he/him.

𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊𝐒. statistics / timeline / connections & wcs / pinterest / playlist

𝐀𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐒.

floppy golden hair that keeps falling in your face, bouncy legs, drumming on any surface you can find, big toothy smiles, rolled down windows in a beat up car, the ability to make a game out of anything, matchless optimism, way too much holiday spirit, and wisdom found where you least expect it.

𝐇𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐘.

the oldest of two children had in a desperate bid to save a failing marriage.

were one to view the earliest of carson's years from an outside lens, there'd probably be cause for concern. the family was in a constant state of flux and motion: moving from place to place, never settling down, never establishing a sense of home or normalcy. had his parents not been as good as they were at shielding their kids from the chaos that was their life, things would have been a lot worse.

in carson's eyes, though, it was all a blast. he's always been an adventurous, outgoing, and optimistic guy, so new places just meant new friends to make and new things to do. being the eternal "new kid" at school during his elementary years never really bothered him either. even if it was only for a fleeting moment, he had a way of worming into the hearts of the people around him. in fact, he still keeps in touch with a good chunk of them.

after his parents finally decided to call it quits when he was 9, he stuck with his mom and sister, and the three officially settled down in ashmore a year later.

his mom remarried when he was 19, introducing a stepfather and his kids into their family.

to be entirely honest, it was hard acclimating to being in one place for an extended period of time. carson left pieces of himself on the open road and every place he lived before, and that's made it hard to really, fully, 100% settle into ashmore the way his sister and mother have.

that being said, he did start a band when he was 14 ! the flip side is a passion born from the love of music he inherited from his mother and the wanderlust he inherited from his father. while the local fame they've garnered recently doesn't really interest him, he's intrigued by the idea of potentially expanding a little bit outward. at least to other places in oregon. mostly he just wants an excuse to roadtrip with his friends.

while the band is his passion, it doesn't really pay the bills. in fact, it sort of does the opposite. to counteract this, carson became the king of the odd job. he's walked dogs, mowed lawns, delivered pizza, newspapers, and everything in-between. he's worked classic jobs too, like at the tackle shop, gas station, arcade, and as a barista and waiter. unfortunately, he's got an issue with maintaining these jobs. not because he's a bad worker ( well... debatable ), but mostly because he gets bored and has a tendency to leave for... not necessarily greener, but newer pastures.

at present, he's working as a cashier at the grocery store. it's okay. he likes that he gets to interact with people a lot, but the paycheck definitely leaves something to be desired. he doesn't really think about that part too much though, much to his friends and sister's chagrin.

sometimes he'll help his sister with her wedding planner business. not in any huge or meaningful way, but he'll help get supplies and set up venues. it's not really his thing, but he likes helping out where he can. again: he's the king of the odd job.

he does not have a college degree. beyond the social aspect, he didn't really like the structure of school ( #justadhdthings ), so he just didn't go back after squeaking through high school.

right now, he's just vibing. he's in an eternal state of just vibing.

𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐘.

golden retriever energy to a T.

cancer sun, capricorn moon, leo rising. the leo rising runs strong in this one.

he's kinda got spencer from icarly vibes. like, he's a bit of a grown child, but he's got wisdom beyond his age at the same time, you know ?

also has michael berzatto vibes in that he's a bit careless, can make one feel like they can do anything, and everyone feels he's their best friend.

he's really chill. there's very little that can be done to phase him. this is for better and for worse i fear since it can make him a bit of a rug.

he always remembers a face ! honestly he's got a really good memory in general.

would go to the ends of the earth for his friends and family ! he's incredibly loyal !

that said, also a bit non-committal. not in a relationship sense, but in a life sense. he gets bored with jobs and hobbies ( excluding music / drumming / the band, though even those have the occasional dip ) and ditches them for new things at the drop of a hat. he still doesn't mentally feel 100% settled in ashmore, even if he logically is.

the kind of person that will strike up a conversation with anyone and everyone. baristas, customers, some old guy he passed watering his lawn during his morning walk. it literally doesn't matter. he's allergic to being shy.

yes, he goes on daily walks. he loves a daily walk.

can't keep a plant alive to save his life.

often serves as emotional support for his friends and family.

a little gross ! a little bit boy gross ! burps in public ! the 5 second rule is more of a suggestion ; sometimes it can be 10 seconds !

none of the decorations in his apartment were things he picked out. if it were up to him, he'd probably have an r/malelivingspace, but the people in his life have essentially decorated his place for him. in most ways this is a good thing, but there's definitely a few more... questionable items that he got as gag gifts ( there are so many ugly throw blankets and weird knickknacks ).

a bit of a sleeper agent at trivia night. knows a lot of random, pointless knowledge. ...what ? he may not have done great in school, but that doesn't stop him from watching a lot of trivia shows.

[a-random-pillow]

Him, seriously? OF ALL PEOPLE: CHAPTER 2

@ambreignsfan4life,

AO3: Him, seriously? OF ALL PEOPLE - Chapter 2 - A_Random_Pillow - World Wrestling Entertainment [Archive of Our Own]

"Well that went like shit," Says Roman in a disappointed tone around an hour after Kevin barged in on his and Cody’s quite little morning. He's sitting in the passenger seat of Cody’s bus with his head in his hands.

"No one got punched, I think that is pretty good," Says Cody optimistically, moving to sit in the seat driver's.

They were finally ready to start driving after getting properly dressed, packing their bags, buying some snacks and locking down the inside of the bus. All of the preparation had been done in silence both of the mueling over the morning’s events in their minds.

"Says the man who doesn't have to face, Jey, Sami, Randy, Kevin and Seth."

"They asked to see both of us," Says Cody putting the bus in drive.

"Remember, they all hate me and love you. I'm probably the demon who corrupted you in their minds."

"You aren't running away, you are still going to see them, they'll see the honour in that" Cody attempts to reassure, a playcating smile on his face.

"So they'll give me a quick death, how nice"

Cody pouts eyes never leaving the road as they pull out of the arena.

"You don't have to be so pessimistic, we can work it out"

Roman turns to look at Cody, taking in his beautiful face and sad blue eyes. Roman knows no matter what either of them say it's not just sex. There is genuine care between them... maybe even love if Roman is lucky but god Kevin ruined everything. Roman had been planning on using this week to feel out the situation and figure out if he even had a chance at something more than sex with Cody. But now every little thing they did would be under the scrutiny of a pack of vultures! He could beat Kevin six ways to Sunday but that would undoubtedly upset Cody which he didn't want.

In those couple months Roman was away after Wrestlmanina 40 he found himself missing Cody more than anything else. Missing how they would seek each other out after a hard fight, the wordless communication, and how easy was the conversation was when they chose to speak. Late nights watching movies, mid-week get-aways to escape the chaos, and trying out the weirdest restaurants together. He missed it all and he wanted it more then ever.

He wasn't even angry at Cody for taking his belt! He just missed the good times. He missed the only man who was really honest with him, he missed his equal and he missed his rival. But if everything went Roman’s way, if his plan worked out they won’t be rivals anymore.

"Let's just turn on some music, Are Lady Grace right?"

Cody nods a smile gracing his face as they finally pull out onto the highway.

----

They arrive in Washington and park at the soon to be SmackDown Arena, it's late around 8:00 so they decide to order-in dinner instead of going out or cooking. But no one delivers to a bus so they have to meet the pizza delivery man at the front of the arena.

It's while they're waiting that Cody gets a phone call from Jey. Cody sets all of his friends' phone call sounds to their entrance music which immediately puts Roman on high alert as soon as the phone starts ringing.

"Don't tell Jey I'm still with you" Warns Roman before Cody can pick up.

"Lying won't get us anywhere Roman," Says Cody picking up the phone.

"Hey, Uce!" Says Jey happily.

"Hey Jey! How has it been?" Asks Cody, his smile is mischievous and his eyes sparkle with joy. It's not an expression Roman sees often and it makes butterflies erupt in his stomach. He looks away.

"Good, just landed, I'm tired but man this coffee is good!"

"Awesome I arrived an hour ago, waiting for dinner!"

"Sweet! Randy just wanted me to tell ya that we are meeting tomorrow at his rental... 543 Beulover Road. I'm not sure how long we'll be there so I'm bringing chips." Says Jey, somewhere in the background Roman hears a door close.

"That's a great idea thanks for telling me, do you think I should bring some wheatly?" Asks Cody

"For how pissed everyone is? Yeah"

"Is it really that bad?"

Jey laughs without humour before saying

"Cody, the only reason I'm not chewing you out right now is because I'm saving it for Roman."

Roman frowns beside him and Cody grabs his hand squeezing it reassuringly. Roman smiles and Cody forgets about Jey for a moment, apparently for too long.

"Uce? Where'd ya go?"

"Oh ah sorry, Jey. I got... um distracted."

"... Is someone with you?"

"Yeah, Roman is here..."

"WAIT WAIT! Did I interrupt you two fucking?!" Jey sounds incredibly panicked at the idea.

"No, no, We were just waiting for pizza"

"Why the hell is Roman still with you?"

"We made plans to travel to Washington together a couple weeks ago since Roman is still waiting on that new bus."

"Okay sure, can Roman hear me?"

"Yes, but keep in mind we are in public"

"Awesome! Hey cousin, I didn't really get a chance to talk to you earlier since Seth was ripping your throat out but I wanted to tell you I kept all those embarrassing 'challenge' videos you made when we were kids and if you step out of line I will be uploading them on mass."

"Jey" Says Roman tiredly.

"Yeah, anyway Cody good talking to you! See you tomorrow"

"Oh see you Jey"

Jey hangs up suddenly leaving Cody and Roman standing around still waiting for their pizza in silence.

"That's the most he talked to me in mounths," Says Roman chuckling sadly.

----

They rent a car to take to Randy's rental house, Cody drives because Roman can't stop shaking. Of course, he doesn't tell Cody that, he just says he forgot his license. He doesn't want Cody to see how scared he is.

Roman didn't expect his reckoning to come so soon, practically everyone here he's wronged. He thought he would have more time to gain allies, maybe help some of them out, and show that he could be good but no because Kevin was blowing this out of proportion and running everything he had to face everyone right now!

Cody is silent as he drives but he is occasionally shooting Roman worried looks which only makes him feel worse. Cody already tried to get him to talk about how he was feeling but Roman gently shut him down. The drive feels endlessly long but way too short at the same time.

"Everything will be fine Roman, I have you and you have me," Says Cody calmingly.

The reassurance make him feel a bit better but the worry makes him feel unable to breathe properly.

Randy's rental is a large two story house in a suburban area there are four different rental cars in the driveway. Roman really hopes they aren't the last to arrive. Cody parks on the street and Roman grabs the vodka they brought from the back seat.

"Thanks," Says Cody smiling.

Roman smiles back the tension leaving him for a moment as he says

"No problem"

They just sit there watching each other for a moment, taking in the details of each other's faces before they enter the lion's den. A sudden knock at the window causes him to spin. Roman swears he nearly punched the window. Seth is staring at them a clearly forced smile on his face.

"Hiiii" He says in that higher pitched sadistic tone of his.

"Hi Seth" Says Cody like nothing is wrong.

"Hi Seth" Says Roman not making eye contact knowing something is wrong.

"We're just waiting on you two... Oh, Jey said you were bringing alcohol, thanks."

Seth pulls open the passenger door reaching over Roman to grab the alcohol. Roman leans back trying to make as little physical contact as possible with Seth.

"No problem?" Says Cody looking at Seth with mild confusion.

Seth crawls back out of the car, making sure to 'accidentally' hit Roman in the head with the bottle on his way out.

As soon as Cody exits the car Seth practically glues himself to Cody's side, trying to physically keep Roman as far from him as possible without it being obvious.

Everyone is already waiting for them in the living room, Randy is sitting in an armchair by the fireplace possessed like a supervillian, Seth sprawls themself across the loveseat, Jey is sitting on the arm of a couch while Sami is sitting on the couch like a normal person and Kevin is sitting on the only other couch. Jey jumps up and runs over to hug Cody as soon as they get through the door.

"Hey, Man!" He says happily.

Cody smiles hugging Jey back enthusiastically. Jey grabs his hand dragging him over the couch with Sami on it before pushing him down.

"Man, these are the comfiest couchs ever!"

Roman immediately notices that there is nowhere else for him to sit, the only spot left is next to Kevin which is a no-go.

"Roman, take a seat," Says Randy like he is judge, jury, and executioner.

"I'm fine standing" Replies Roman, glaring at Randy.

Randy glares back for a moment before shrugging and saying "Suit yourself"

"So we're all here to discuss Cody and Roman's relationship," Says Randy.

Why is Randy making this sound so formal? He's making it sound like an official meeting! Roman can feel his anger and frustration bubbling at this whole situation.

"We're not in a relationship, Randy" Replies Cody calmly.

Much to Roman's surprise Cody stands up and moves to stand next to Roman.

"I appreciate the concern from all of you but I'm not a hopeless romantic teenager, me and Roman have only been seeing each other for stress relief."

Roman stares at Cody watching his completely calm expression and concise words. He seems unaffected by this stupid situation and that makes Roman feel warm all over and like he wants to pull Cody into his arms and never let go.

"Look at Roman!" Yells Seth venomously.

"He looks like a love-struck puppy!"

Roman feels his face burn as everyone turns to stare at him. Jey has a look of pure anger, Sami looks disgusted, Seth has a spiteful grin, Kevin looks like he is about ready to murder and Randy's expression stays stoney. But Cody? He just smiles and places his hand on Roman's shoulder.

"I'm not surprised, you are all ganging up on him. It takes two to tango, we're all adults but you are only attacking Roman. Right now we're standing together because we know better then everyone else what is going on between us. Now if you have any questions ask away, otherwise, we're leaving."

"You said you were looking for a relationship when you first got back to the WWE, you clearly outlined how you felt no one would make a good partner for you. Then you say you found Roman,so what's the deal?"

Cody nods a sharp knowing smile crossing his face as he says,

"That's a good point Kevin but my reply is quite simple, Roman is good and I got busy. Being a top guy and chasing the championship? It takes a lot of time so it was kinda hard to make space for love in all that and besides I already had Roman to take care of me physically."

Roman never expected to find Cody playing lawyer so attractive, his logic is strong and he seems to have the whole conversation planned out. Strong, Smart and Pretty? Which boxes doesn’t Cody check?

"So why are you and Roman travelling together then?" Asks Seth sitting cross-legged in his chair with an intense expression on his face.

"Convenience and protection, it's a lot easier to drive long distances with two people and travelling together is safer than travelling alone, for the both of us. Yeah know, getting lost, money, safety in numbers, bloodline, blah, blah, blah."

A beat of silence passes over the room before Jey asks

"You know what he did to us?"

Cody's proud expression falls as he turns to Jey, a soft kind smile replacing it as he walks over to Roman's younger cousin. He pulls Jey into a tight hug and whispers something into his ear. Jey hugs Cody back, clearly listening intently before beginning to chuckle before they both break out into full-on laughter. Eventually, they break up the hug and Cody returns to Roman's side.

"I think we're done here Roman," Says Cody smiling at him.

"Yeah, wanna get ice cream?"

"That sounds wonderful"

Cody waves them goodbye as he leaves with Roman out the front door. The five of them sit in silence for a moment before Randy pulls out his phone and makes a call. The phone rings for a moment before someone picks up,

"Hi honey!" Says John Cena happy as can be.

"John, call off the wedding," Says Randy in a completely serious tone.

"WHAT?!" Asks John sounding utterly heartbroken and shocked.

"Cody is fucking Roman"

"I'll be on the next plane" No one in the room other than Randy had ever heard John speak in such a serious tone, it was a little scary. Jey actually felt a bit of pity for Roman, only a but though.

Him, seriously? OF ALL PEOPLE: Chapter 1

Pairing(s): Cody Rhodes/Roman Reigns

Word Count: 2318

Tags/Warning: Crack treated Seriously

Summary:

Kevin walks in on Roman and Cody, he is not happy and will make this everyone else's problem. This has also had the unintended side effect of ruining all of Roman's Cody-related plans and for once, they can't solve this situation in the ring.

AO3: Him, seriously? OF ALL PEOPLE - Chapter 1 - A_Random_Pillow - World Wrestling Entertainment [Archive of Our Own]

Also: @ambreignsfan4life

It's early, 7:40 to be exact, which is way too early for Kevin's liking but for what he is planning he has to get up before Cody's bus leaves at 8:00(Always 8:00?what does he have a normal sleep schedule?). Kevin mutters curses primarily directed at his early riser friend, the sun itself and whatever else mildly annoys him at the present moment as he walks through the creepily empty backstage with a large box of breakfast foods in hand. Bagels, eggs, fruit, pancakes, waffles bacon oh my.

He wanted to go out of his way to thank Cody for giving him a title shot, he didn't think he'd win but damm he'd try. He'd give Cody the best match possible because he knew Cody would do the same for him. Especially if it meant keeping Roman away from the title and Cody by extension.

Cody's bus is a bit of an eyesore but it's always easy to spot. Kevin carefully walks up the steps balancing the food on one hand while he uses the other to open Cody's door with the key Cody had given him. It was a massive sign of trust and he would protect the key and Cody until his dying breath if it came to that.

Although all the blinds are closed, all of the lights are on inside and the strong smell of coffee fills the small bus. A bit of steam drifts out of the bathroom.

"Coffee for The Chief," Says Cody to someone Kevin can't see.

There is an all too familiar huff of breath as he hears Roman fucking Reign's voice say

"Thanks, Princess"

He says ‘Princess’ in such a soft affectionate way it immediately puts Kevin on high alert, fight or flight.

Kevin slams the door behind him and marches up the few steps to the main floor. The sight he is greeted to disgusts him. Cody is leaning back on the kitchen counter wearing Roman's new OTC shirt, it's impossible to tell if he is wearing anything underneath because Roman's stupid shirt is too large for Cody! Not to mention all the bruises and bites across Cody's whole body! Roman is no better, wearing a tied white robe hair still dripping with water. The robe does nothing to hide the scratches on Roman's chest and of course more bites and bruises! Kevin feels the strong urge to throttle... well both of them but Roman more than Cody.

"K-kev?" Squeaks out Cody's eyes wide as the color drains from his face.

"WHAT THE FUCK!?" Yells Kevin, tossing the breakfast box onto the table before stomping to the Champion and former Champion.

Roman steps in front of Cody, moving the blond man behind him, eyes turning stoney and cold within an instant.

"Kevin!" Says Cody visibly pulling himself together as he tries to push past Roman with no success.

"What are you doing here?!" Demands Roman angrily which does nothing to soothe Kevin's rising fury.

"WHAT AM I DOING HERE?! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE!?" Yells Kevin

"I WAS HERE FIRST" Yells Roman

"THIS IS CODY'S BUS!"

"BOTH OF YOU CALM DOWN!" Yells Cody getting in between them without hesitation. His blue eyes are flicking between them annoyance burning like blue embers but Kevin can't really bring himself to care about that because Roman Reigns is right fucking there.

"WHY ARE YOU HERE?!" Yells Kevin

Roman opens his mouth, eyes dark but one harsh look from Cody shuts him up fast.

"Kevin we can explain," Says Cody calmly, eyes sympathetic and kind.

Kevin feels his rage simmer down for the moment, it's clear Cody and Roman fucked last night but Kevin would like to know the whole situation before passing judgment. He was an angry bastard but if it was just one time then they can forget this. Everyone has had sex with at least one terrible person or been said terrible person, Kevin was no saint in the matter.

Cody pushes Roman into one of the chairs obviously trying to get him to sit down and to Kevin’s surprise Roman obliges without any argument. Well, maybe there is an argument because Roman and Cody share a look that has more meaning than Kevin thought possible. After a few moments, they both turn to look at Kevin obviously waiting for him to do something. He asks the first question that comes to his mind.

"What is this?"

Cody glances at Roman and Roman nods picking up his previously forgotten coffee to take a sip. The mug has a picture of Cody and Pharoh on the front and the words ‘pretty good dog owner’ printed on the bottom.

"ummm, I guess stress relief?"

Roman shrugs in agreement which only irritates Kevin more. Stress relief? So it's just sex?... fucking better question why were either of them trying to help the other relieve stress?

"When did this start? How did this start?"

At that Cody and Roman both look away like children who got caught sneaking an extra cookie. Their expressions are a mix of embarrassment and shame as Cody says

"ummm, well, the night I got back to the WWE"

Kevin would have spit out his coffee if he was drinking it. Since Cody got back to the WWE, 2 years ago, they've been fucking for TWO YEARS.

"Me and Roman ran into each other backstage and he offered me some advice on dealing with Seth, one thing led to another and... yeah"

How do you deal with this? What do you do when you find out a person you thought was your friend was actually banging your enemy, not just any enemy, the leader and you know the unanimously agreed upon worst guy around... but at least it was just sex, right?

"So only sex?"

"Yeah," says Cody unconvincingly

"What are you Cody's dad?" Asks Roman annoyance dripping from his voice like venom.

"I'm sorry Roman, want me to go get Jey and Sami?" Asks Kevin sarcastically.

Roman grumbles something under his breath before leaning back into his chair in defeat and shutting his mouth.

"So if it's only sex you guys ‘released stress' with other people during these past two years? Right?"

At that, both Roman and Cody glance at each other before looking away. Cody opens his mouth to speak before thinking better of it and looking at Roman.

"...We didn't have time?" Roman asks it like a question more than he states it a fact.

Oh great, these two idiots have been exclusively banging each other for two years.

"So how often do you do this?"

Cody looks at Roman annoyance creasing his face

"Well we used to do it after every smackdown, sometimes more, but someone decided to take leave without telling anyone"

"Sorry, I called you the second week I was away. It's not that I didn't want to see ya, I was just upset."

Cody smiles at Roman, all the false annoyance slipping away as he kisses Roman's cheek before saying

"I'm just messing with you, sir"

Roman and Cody stare at each other intently, foreheads touching and eyes taking in every detail of the other’s face. Have forgotten that Kevin is right there?

Kevin wonders if these two actually managed to fall in love because these two seem a little lovey-dovey for just sex. But Cody and Roman in love is the worst-case scenario, he doesn’t want to think about that unless he absolutely has to.

Roman leans into Cody clearly about to kiss The Undisputed Champion but Kevin clears his throat not wanting to witness any more of these to then he absolutely has to. Roman quickly turns away and Cody looks like a dear trapped in headlights.

"Only sex you say?"

"I mean we get dinner sometimes, and sometimes catch a ride with each other... and we've crashed at each other's houses"

... Are they actually in love? These two seem dense, would they even realize if they were? Kevin feels his boiling anger return at... at these two’s everything! It's all he can do to not attack Roman and Cody again. He stands up and all but yells

"I AM GOING TO SLEEP BECAUSE THIS IS CLEARLY A NIGHTMARE"

Kevin marches out of Cody's bus leaving those two alone once again. He marches to his bus leaving a wake of concerned employees behind him. He throws himself on his bed like it's a member of The Bloodline and he's on the top rope.

He tries to fall asleep but just like everything else so far today it seems impossible... so he decides to call Randy to vent and thankfully Randy picks up after two rings.

"Hey Kev, what's up man? Isn't it a little early for you?"

"Yeah! I was trying to surprise Cody with breakfast and you'll never guess who I saw in his bus!"

"Ummm, LA Knight?"

"God I wish! Motherfucking Roman Reigns"

"... Pardon?" Says a voice that is distinctly not Randy and sounds a lot like Sami

For a moment Kevin wonders if he should be telling Sami this, out of everyone it would upset Sami and Jey the most... but Cody had been hiding the truth if not directly lying to them for two years.

"Cody and Roman are fucking!"

There is a long beat of silence before he hears Seth ask

"How much do you know?"

"How many people are here?" Asks Kevin

"We were just about to go out for breakfast, Me, Randy, Jey, and Sami. Now answer the question" States Seth in a no-nonsense tone.

"They've been having sex for quote-unquote stress relief since Cody got back to the WWE. Oh wait not just sex, sometimes they have dinner, give each other rides and stay at each other's houses! Oh and mind you they are also only fucking each other!!" Yells Kevin, relaying all the information he got from Cody and Roman.

"Are you serious?" Asks Jey uncharctericaly

"Is this the kinda thing I'd joke about?"

"Is he stupid? Roman... ROMAN!"

"TWO YEARS"

"Didn't he listen to us? We've all talked about what he did to us!"

"Cody..."

"That's it I'm calling him right now!" Yells Seth from somewhere in the background. Kevin can hear a phone ringing and after one ring someone picks up.

"Hi Cody! What the FUCK?!"

"You talked to Kevin?" Asks Cody, Kevin can barely hear him through two phones.

"Is Roman still there?" Questions Seth, politely

"..."

"ROMAN LISTEN TO ME YOU FUCKER GET AWAY FROM HIM RIGHT NOW!"

"Roman no" Mutters Cody and the sound of movement echoes through the multiple phone calls.

"SHUT IT SETH! YOU HAVE NO ROOM TO TALK ABOUT CODY!" Shouts Roman through the phone

"OH WONDERFUL YOU ARE SO HIGH AND MIGHTY FOR ONLY LITERALLY SCREWING HIM!" Retorts Seth

"SETH!" Yells Cody, embarrassment clear in his voice.

"AND YOU CODY! ROMAN!? ROMAN?! OF EVERYONE ON THE ROSTER ROMAN?!" There is a beat of silence before Cody replies

"Yeah, in my defence when I first got there who were my other options? You, Seth? You hated me. Kevin? He was still trying to work things out with Sami, I wasn't about to get involved in that, the same goes for Sami. Jey? He was a part of the bloodline as well. Randy? I really didn't want my first relationship back to be one of my exes. Brock? Ha! Drew? Again another ex. And everyone else was already in relationships. Roman was there when I needed him and we never minced words about what we wanted. Even when we were directly fighting the bloodline we both knew how to draw a line. We left the belts, the family matters, the anger outside."

"I'm calling Dustin" Threatens Randy sternly

"NO!" Yells Cody, fear clear at the idea of his overprotective brother being brought into the situation.

"So you know what You are doing is wrong" Admonishes Randy

"1. Making a lot of assumptions and 2. Dustin gave people the shovel talk just because he thought they looked like the kind of people I would date! If he found out I was actually fucking someone he would have an aneurysm. You would be killing my brother, Randy."

"You know what, we're in the same city next week we'll talk more about this in person"

Kevin hears noises of agreement through the phones before everyone hangs up.That Leaves Kevin alone in his bus with his very frustrated thoughts. He could kinda see why Roman felt like one of the only good options during Cody's return but he couldn't fathom why Cody would keep up with Roman after everything that happened with him, with them.

He replays the conversation in his mind and one small line sticks out to him

"I really didn't want my first relationship back to be one of my exes."

Cody and Roman had both said that they were only seeing each other for stress relief but Cody had just said he had been looking for a relationship. Did something change? Kevin was good at telling when people were lying and he didn't think Cody was lying when he said he and Roman only saw each other for stress relief. He still does wounder if something happened.

Kevin's phone buzzed with a message from Cody

Cody: Sorry about all of that ;_; I didn't really want anyone to find out, much less like this. Thank you for the breakfast, would you like it back? Or Money for it?

Kevin] smiled at the message, despite Cody's terrible taste in men he is still a good person.

Kevin: Nah you can keep it, just make sure Romeo doesn't get any

Cody sends a picture of Roman, actually wearing clothes thankfully, sitting across the table from Cody looking very annoyed with the food Kevin bought earlier laid across the table with the message:

Cody: Roman says it's cruel and unusual punishment

Kevin: Good

[ggreactionsandscenarios]

Hey. My number one is dami 🥺 thank you so much for that last post. I don't see a lot about her. She's so underrated. I love her so much. You think you could write something with her. Like fluff and maybe some smut? ❤️ thank you

Dami x Reader

A little something

It’s been a week since the last time Dami came to see you or that she answered any of your text. You’ve been ‘hanging out’ for a few months now. You met on a dating app, after talking for a while, you decided to meet in real life which went pretty well. You figured out that you get along pretty fine, not that you went that deep in conversation.

It was your first time being on a dating app and you were still hesitant to share information to people on there. Dami though was doing the same for a all other reason, she had her fair share of people wanting to meet her for her life as an idol and not her as a person. She was on the verge of quitting the app when you matched, and she decided at the time that you were her last one when she actually was your first interesting encounter on the platform.

You met pretty regularly during this time but not on date or anything public you’ll met at her hotel, and to be honest more times than you wish to admit you ended up hooking up. Rather quickly she became the person you'd call for sex, you sometimes wanted more than that but you weren’t ready and she didn’t seem interested.

After a pretty bad break up last year you promised yourself not to catch feelings for the first person you'll met, you wanted to experimence a hot girl summer or something similar, something that didn’t ask of you emotional effort, just a simple touch.

Dami was good at that she always seemed to express the right amount of affection for you to feel wanted and loved without becoming completely dependante of her.

Or so you thought, now that you had absolutely no news of her, you were getting worried, imagining the worst scenarios in your head. Althought Dami wasn’t exactly one to text a lot, she was often asking you your whereabouts, or asking you to come over.

But as said before, it's been a week and nothing. Absolutely nothing.

It shouldn't affect you this much but it was, you figured that without her, your all mood dropped rather quickly. And as much as you'd like to be pissed about it you're mainly sad.

When the bell rang you were relieved to know that your pizza finally arrived, so you ran to the door trying to brush off your thoughts about Dami. Food has always been your personal escape when you weren't feeling good.

However you weren't sure you were disappointed to notice it wasn't your pizza ringing the bell but your so called booty call.

"What are you doing here ?"

Your words were rather aggressive but you thought it was fair and so did Dami.

"We need to talk."

Some other day you would've been stressed out by the sentence but you were just upset.

" 'We' don't need to do anything together as you made it perfectly clear by ghosting me Dami. So no we don't need to talk, you need to leave."

As you were closing the door on her she put her foot in the way blocking the door.

"I'm sorry."

You didn't answer already feeling like this conversation was about to drain you from all your energy.

"Please hear me out."

Against your better judgment you let go of the door and went back to the living room already tired of what was about to come.

Dami took a minute to realised you weren't blocking the door anymore but when she did she was glad that you were ready to talk to her. She entered your apartment, her eyes wandering around, noticing the way your place was the perfect match to your personality.

Getting irritated by her small smiles you'll try to get to the point.

"You only have until my pizza man arrives. Better talk fast."

As much as she was hurt by your want to get rid of her quickly she did start talking.

"I'm sorry for going silent. The truth is that I got more attached to you than I expected and because I knew you didn't want any sort of relationship it started to hurt me. I'm a coward, I ran away but it's ending now I want to try. I want to be the one to make you believe in relationships again. So if you'll let me I'd like to take you out on a date Y/N and not in a lame hotel room this time."

As much as you'd like to feel giddy and excited about the demand you couldn't help but be terrified. Being in a relationship implied a lot more than what you were ready to give and it also meant renouncing to your newly found freedom.

Seeing your trouble Dami got closer cupping your face.

"Hey, I'm not asking your hand in mariage, not yet anyway. I just want to get to really know you Y/N."

You looked at her eyes, trying to entangle the truth from the jokes. Yet for once all you could see in Dami was honesty, nothing was hidden under it, just the pure and simple truth.

"So would you go on a date with me ?"

You thought about it for a mere second contemplating whether it was a good idea or not.

"Okay"

Dami jumped in the air like a child which made you laugh and notice that you indeed had still a lot to learn about her.

Hey, here's your request. Sorry no smut simply because the story didn't turned out to be inclined to. Anyway have a good day/night ❤️ -Ael