#mr love queens choice imagine

[imagineanime2022]

Meet Again

Gavin X Fem!Reader

Word Count: 2510

Requested: Anon

Request: Hi could you do a Gavin x reader they were in a relationship in high school but have to part way and when a few year later they meet again

Can you make a little bit of angst and fluff at the end

Warning: Talks of human trafficking, mugging

Gavin was seen as the outcast and troublemaker, you had somehow managed to be friends with him, no one understood how and they became even more confused when you started dating. Gavin didn’t like anyone apart from you, you calmed him down, you stopped him from doing anything stupid and he always appreciated that but there was a problem. The problem was he was holding you back, you didn’t do anything that wouldn’t want to do, people didn’t invite you to places because he was always 3 steps behind you.

Gavin decided then that the only way that you were going to live a fulfilling life was to leave you. “What do you mean?” You asked. “I mean that we should break up,” He answered. “Why? Everything was fine last week.” You frowned “you’ve been weird for the past couple of days.” “Do you know how difficult it is to watch you miss everything because of me?” He asked. “That’s not your choice.” You argued. “It’s not yours either, not while you're with me.” He turned away from you, you knew that you weren’t going to change his mind, you wished that you could but this was always Gavin’s choice he had the strength to walk away and stay away. “So what are you just leaving?” You asked. “This is what’s better for you.” He answered, as he opened the door and left.

That was the last time that you spoke to Gavin but it wasn’t the last time that you would see him, he was still in school with you and neither of you moved out of the city. You never really got in with the crowd as Gavin had wanted, it was the only way that you were able to get back at him. In reality it only served to further isolate you and before you knew it the only thing that you had was work. You convinced yourself for a while that you were happy with that but that got old quickly and instead you settled into something that was familiar.

Except one night on your way home from a late shift at work, someone had attempted to rob you, unfortunately for them the only thing that you did for yourself these days was self defense classes. Which resulted in the police taking you both down to the station, you were waiting for someone to take your statement, your leg bounced as you looked around the station, having told them that all you wanted was to go home. “(Y/N)?” You looked up at the sound of your voice hoping that it was finally time to get out of there but your eyes landed on Gavin, in a police uniform. “What are you doing here? Are you okay?” It was then that you became very conscious of the fact that there was a cut above your eyebrow with a nice bruise to match. “I’d be better if I could just go home.” You answered. “What happened?” He asked crouching in front of you, taking your chin in his hand to look over your face. “Who did this?” “None of your concern.” You answered. “Miss, are you sure that you don’t want to give a statement?” The officer that had brought you in asked. “No it’s-” “I’ll take it from here.” Gavin said. “You sure Captain?” The officer asked. “Yeah.” He answered. “Captain?” You asked.

Gavin stood up gesturing for you to follow him, he took you to an office, one with his name on the door, he led you to a chair “sit.” He ordered as he walked over to his desk, opening a draw and pulling out a small first aid box. “You should make a statement.” “I don’t need to, he’s never going to bother me again, not after what I did.” You muttered, a hiss leaving you mouth seconds later when he started cleaning the cut on your forehead. “I’ve seen what you can do.” He answered. “How would you know what I can do?” You asked. “We go to the same gym, I see you but you don’t see me.” He answered honestly. “What the hell does that mean?” You frowned. “Don’t do that, you’ll make it bleed again.” He placed the small patch over the cut “are you going to tell me what happened?” “He tried to mug me, I took care of it.” You answered. “What are you doing out this late?” Gavin asked. “Going home from work-, what does this have to do with anything?” You asked. “No one to pick you up?” His eyes travelled to your left hand as if looking for something. “No.” You finally answered as you pulled your hands down hiding them under your thighs. “Anything else?” “No, I’ll drop you home.” He said standing up. “I don’t need you to drop me home.” You should have let your anger get the best of you but being in a room with you for the first time in years made you childish “I’m better off without you, remember?” “(Y/N)…” “Goodnight officer.” You turned walking out of the office and leaving him to realise just how much he had hurt you.

“What did you target her for?” He asked as he leaned over the table looking at the man that had attacked you. “None of your business.” He answered, he had been transferred to the STF headquarters after seeing some suspicious messages on his phone. “Okay fine, you don’t want to talk, then I will, I’ll tell you what I know, stop me if you know this already.” Gavin pulled his chair around, sitting on it with his front pressed to the back of the chair. “First things first, we’ve known about your operation for a while, we just never got close enough to someone who was involved until you. We know that you are trafficking evol users.” “Tch.” The man grunted. “So from your messages it looks like you’ve been using the cafe that the victim works at to get your evol users, by the looks of it the owner is having second thoughts, so my guess is that you were hoping that by kidnapping someone that worked for him you could convince him to keep working for you.” Gavin explained. “If you know all this, what did you bother asking for?” The man asked. “Honestly I was just giving you a chance to cooperate.” Gavin answered “still counts for something even with an organisation like this one.” “Whatever.” He muttered looking away from Gavin. “I’m not the last person that is going to try and grab her, you know a group like mine doesn’t stop on the first try, who knows maybe she can be sold for something else.” The man smirked “seems like the boss's type.” Gavin stood without another word and walked out of the interrogation room. “She’s been home for a while, we haven’t seen anything on the cameras around her building.” Eli said as he met Gavin at the end of the hall. “I have to go and talk to her.” Gavin said. “We need to at least tell her the danger that she is in.” “Yeah sure, what do you want me to do with that idiot?” Eli asked, pointing back to the room that Gavin had left. “Holding cell, there might still be something that he can help with.” Gavin answered dismissively before leaving to get to you.

You had been home for an hour and had been in the process of falling asleep on the sofa when you heard your window open it took a second for the room to start filling with smoke, your eyes watering as you struggled towards your front door, you pressed your nose into your arm. Your body worked against you as you made it to the entrance hall. Your legs gave out then, you were so close. The next few moments happened in flashes as your door flew open, you expected to see whoever was so intent on getting their hands on you but instead you saw flashes of white and blue. “I got you.” You recognised the voice but your brain would not supply the name of the person it belonged to. “W-what is-” “Don’t worry about it, I’ll never let anything happen to you.” He, it’s definitely a male, promised as he made it out of your apartment he must have pulled the fire alarm on the way out prompting people to evacuate the building, you could hear it blaring. “Eli, I need an ambulance and officers to help people out of this building. They let off a tear gas agent in the building. People will need to be relocated while the building is decontaminated.” “And (Y/N)?” Eli asked. “They didn’t have the time to grab her, I have her but she needs checking over. She was almost out when I got there.” He explained, Gavin, his name's Gavin, your brain seemed to be catching up with the situation now that you were out in the fresh air. “Hey, how are you doing?” “Gavin?” You asked. “Hi.” He said softly, you were still cradled in his arms, he had you close to his chest as he scanned the crowd for anyone that seemed particularly suspicious. “What are you doing here?” You asked. “I should have taken you home.” He muttered. “You're being targeted, once the paramedics have checked you over, we’ll move you somewhere safer.” “We?” You asked. “Don’t worry about it for now, I’ll explain everything once you’re feeling better.” He said somehow holding you closer, you remember small parts of the paramedic checks, like your slight panic that took over your body as they washed out your eyes and face, Gavin’s hands never left yours and they never removed yours from his lap.

By the time you got back to what Gavin had told you was a safehouse, the effects had basically worn off “so this is all because of where I work?” You asked. “From what we can tell that’s the case, your boss has been involved in trafficking people, however over the past few weeks he has been sending increasingly panicked messages until he decided that he wanted out, we assume that they were trying to get to you because they wanted to use you as leverage.” Gavin explained. “Me?” You asked. “Looks like your manager doesn’t actually have any close family, the only person that he really deals with is you.” Gavin answered. “So what now?” You asked. “It’s safer for you to stay here while we sort all of this out, once we get some images of the men that we’re looking for I might need to show you some of them to see if you recognise them.” Gavin explained “you should get some rest for now, there’s food in the kitchen and a bathroom off all of the bedrooms, it doesn’t matter which one you pick.” “Okay.” You nodded. “Do you have anyone that you need to talk to?” He asked. “Let them know that you're okay, by now there will be reports on the news.” “No.” You answered. “No?” He asked “no friends, partner?” “No.” You repeated as you stood “you said any room?” “Yes.” He watched you nod as you walked towards the direction that he had pointed in before from the sound of it picking the room furthest away from the living room. Gavin leaned back on the sofa, he would have thought that you would have had someone that you wanted to notify.

A few hours later when you came back out you only meant to get a cup of water but caught sight of Gavin on the sofa, it looked like he had fallen asleep there, you thought that he would have left by now, you grabbed the blanket from one of the other spare rooms and draped it over him. As you stood to leave he spoke, making you jump slightly “What are you doing awake?” He asked. “I was just getting a drink.” You answered “thought you might appreciate the blanket.” “I do thank you.” He said and you nodded, turning to walk back towards the kitchen to grab your water. “Please tell me if there’s anything else that I can do for you.” “Yeah.” You disappeared back into your room.

It took a few days for you to settle and get used to seeing Gavin around again, things were different, in a way that could only be that of two teens that had grown up. The more time you spent with him the more you realised that you weren’t angry you were just sad and hurt by what he had done. You didn’t even know what you wanted to say to him anymore so you didn’t say anything.

Gavin noticed that you seemed to have learned to co-exist with him but he definitely wanted you to be comfortable “Hey are you okay?” He asked. “Okay? With people hunting me and having to share a house with my ex. No.” You shrugged as you continued to flick through TV stations trying to catch anything interesting. “Do you want to talk about it?” He asked. “We’ve talked about people being after me enough.” You answered. “I was talking about the ex thing.” He answered. “You talked about it plenty when it happened.” You folded your legs underneath you. “Can I please apologise then, you don’t have to accept it, hell you don’t even have to acknowledge it but you deserve one.” He took it as a sign to continue when you didn’t say anything “I know what I did was childish and hurtful, I was so worried that I was holding you back, I didn’t think about what you wanted or what leaving you might do to you. Instead of talking to you about the problem I talked at you and ruined everything.” “You could have said this years ago, looks like you could have found me.” You stated. “I knew the moment that I started training that I was wrong to do what I did to you but then I figured that you would have started a new life, made other friends possible and found someone to replace me, like I told you to.” He explained. “I didn’t want to ruin anything for you.” “There’s nothing to ruin.” You said, he walked over crouching in front of you. “I never should have left you, this never would have happened if I hadn’t.” He admitted. “How are you so sure of that?” You asked. “I wouldn’t have let it, you wouldn’t be walking home alone, wouldn’t be working with that guy in the first place.” Gavin explained. “Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to start again…” You finally caved, you had to be honest, the fact that you still hadn’t moved on and the wound hadn’t healed to have said something to the way you feel about him. “Start over? Yeah I think we could do that.” He nodded a small smile on his face.

Request Here!!

[confused-mc]

MLQC Headcannons

Time Away, Communication styles and Voice Notes

Masterlist

♫︎ Kiro:

If you hadn't voice noted in the past, then once you do, you find that doing so could be opening a can of worms. You guys can't seem to go back to just texting and calls.

When Kiro is energetic, and when he's away, him voice noting you will occur often when you're in work and he has some free time. (usually he takes it to explore the city and try local delicacies he's in when he's away, and sometimes it's when he's on the sofa and finds himself desiring your company in a way only your voice notes can provide - at least, when you're not able to physically snuggle beside him as he tells you about his day).

One of the first times, it's inspired by the need to tell you his experiences! He'd stopped by a food stall on his time outside of the film set, and he's suddenly bursting with energy about his new favourite discovery and - you're not there and he feels like he might explode if he doesn't tell you.

"Miss Chips, I have had the most amazing thing. We have got to try this together one day! It's like this pork bun, but this crispy dough outside, and it has this sweet dip which is pickled and is absolutely delicious -" *a sound of a mouthful being bitten and groaned at in delight* "-and the owner tried to give me one for free if I posted a photo endorsing the stall! I wish I could take it home so I can see how you look when you try it and see your little cheeks chow down like a chipmunk - I know you'd love it even more than me!

"And oh - did you hear that - someone's dog just ran away with their food!" *laughs* "At least mine is all safely tucked away, in my stomach! Oh - and there was this guy who was busking by the fountain. I wish I had been able to bring my violin because we could have played an amazing duet... But I left it back at the hotel... -But it's probably a good thing - Savin might've gotten mad, considering I'm meant to be hiding from the media, rather than attracting it. I wish you were here, Miss Chips. You'd love the blossom here. At least when I look at it, I can imagine you are right here beside me... Oh and one last thing, make sure you eat well! I know your project right now is tough, but keeping healthy is important! And make sure to sleep well too! Can you say hi to Cello and Applebox for me, I miss their cute little faces. And yours too!"

Basically a kid with a very zippy attention span, jumping from one topic to the next like an excited grasshopper. His zest for life and desire to communicate with you is so expressed by his messages and that love of the world he wants to share as the partner by your side. It's like grabbing the corners of a camera and stretching it to widen to his. Him sharing his experiences that has made him happy is like a passage to his inner world and love.

He always makes sure to express his chirpy reminders to take care of yourself, and how he'd place you in his little world when he's away - imagining of you being on the couch typing away at a proposal, and how you'd love to try all the sweetie freebies the hotel gives him and the snacks from caterers from the filming launch party - what he'd imagine you would wear - and how he'd match his outfit to yours and come striding in with you beside him. He loves to visualise you on the sofa as he gets in from filming, jumping up and bear-hugging him before he even walks a foot in the door. These small scenarios keeps him sane whilst he's away, and he finds it so beautiful when it happens in real life when he comes back and refinds home in your arms.

Most of his voice notes are extremely fast paced - and you love how he unmasks for you, because he feels so comfortable being himself, despite his exuberance! You've told him yourself, that the most joy you get from being around him, is when he is totally himself - and that's the way he can express his love. Talking to you as if you were there, because inside, he knows you will always be listening, whatever he wants to talk about.

𖠌 Victor:

Victor is hard to pin down, because he prefers phone calls to really find intimacy in connecting. He wouldn't waste time recording voice notes, because he's 1) a workaholic and 2) he prefers to be 'in the now' (ironically). He doesn't quite get how people can babble for so long on something that is recorded to be listened at a later date - why not do it over a phone call? Seems like a waste of time, otherwise.

If you did a voice note, he would find time to listen to them, but would most likely ignore speaking back and instead, opt for a simple, sarcasm-laced or blunt reply. If it's based on an interest of his, such as discussing classical music or a new pudding idea for Souvenir, he might be daring enough and record a short, few word sentence reply. However, it probably would end so abruptly it would almost take you off balance to see The Victor Lee reply to a voice note!

You would find it most likely a bit silly and embarrassing, and decide to call him instead.

"Now you decide to call me? What happened to your sudden interest in filling up your break time with your incessant rambling prerecorded messages that are five minutes long a piece? If you dedicated this much time to your new proposals, then I wouldn't have to worry so much about you I imagine your current ratings would be better. "

You deliberate hanging up on him, just because he was completely wrong and yet he still had the gall to tell you off -

And yet, you can't help but feel amused at his grumbling. It was like the knawing of Puddings's teeth on the cat post, sharp and grating but comforting that some behaviours never changed. And knowing it was Victor, through and through.

"So you really don't like Vivialdi that much?" you decide to ignore him, iriterating the sum of what he'd replied in his curt voice note.

*sigh* "No I don't," his voice is filled with an almost ire, rising at the end of a sentence like a child lecturing an adult, "And why did this come up as a subject topic?"

Your laugh is muffled by your hand - unwilling to let Victor hear - , and it's easy to feel the banter returning, "We did a feature on some composers and we got invited as guests to a concert as a thank you. I guess I'll just have to find someone else to take up the spare ticket... I guess maybe Kiro -"

"As your investor, it is good practice, let alone it is wise, to demonstrate to us a good sense in your marketing strategy and expanding influence -" he sucks in a berating-filled breath "and then not offering at least one ticket to them," he pauses, "are you trying to make it seem like you're a total moron?"

His voice is so sharply blunt it would have burnt, a tone so scathingly arrogant it would have left your ear in scratches - if you hadn't felt the tricky, yet bubbling joy in your chest. It was probably the first time you could dare to imagine that your intelligence wasn't soley insulted due to the fact of marketing strategy didn't align to pleasing investors and perceived besmirched impudence.

Oh, are you trying to maintain a purely professional interest there, Victor?

Trying to remain professional yourself, you aimed to calm your unsteady giggles, and let out a breath of contemplation

"So you're suggesting that I cordially invite my main investor to the concert to preserve postive working relations?" you voice is coyly innocent.

His voice is flat, "Well ascertained. I'll come and pick you up tonight. Make sure I receive your formal email invite."

You blink, "But how did you know the concert is tonight?"

There's an exasperated smile in his voice, "I'm the one who recommended your film company to begin with, idiot." he paused, voice becoming dry, "If you read your email properly, you'd see that we had a previous association with them. I've already been 'technically' invited."

The flip of Victor already knowing about the concert, and already having and invited tossed your perfect teasing plans in the air, left you fumbling.

The one thing you forget to ask is,

If Victor had already been invited, was it really necessary to be needing your only invite too?

Victor had a whole adgena of his own, of course, because a professional invite is the only way to justify him inviting her to his box.

☕︎ Lucien:

It always made his eyes crinkle when he sees a new voice note pop up on his screen, the curiosity of what exactly inspired you to go on a spiel about something during that part of the day was always a fascinating phenomenon

The voice notes could be as random as finding a beautiful glass figurene in a window, to the cloud that reminded you the shape of a beaker, to a whizzy article about something new in the science field you wanted him to explain.

Sometimes, his favourites, was just when you were about your evening routine, the sizzle of some beef in the background, and were simply telling him about your day - the little tired sighs and little gaps between topics and letting the silence hang - a simply personalised background for when he was alone and was waiting for the paperwork, and current experiment, to end. Like a cafe ambience video, but one made specifically for him.

Honestly, it gives him an odd sense of comfort in the middle of the night, your voice echoing in his night-lit apartment or when it rebounding slightly off the white tile walls of the lab, the glow of the screen as he glances as the little green bobble on the line of the recording, signalling that your voice was currently ongoing

"Oh I walked past our-that movie theatre of yours last night - I saw um it had the one with Audrey Hepurn in it. I even went in! It was called Roman... Roman - Roman something. Agh I can't remember. Oh yeah, guess what! ... It wasn't a half bad movie - heh -" your voice quickly catches, as if caught in a lie, "Not that I hadn't watched it all when I - uh - came to find you that time! But anyway, I loved it. You know that moment where she rides on the back of his bike - it was so beautiful. Did you know it was actually filmed in Rome - actually you probably did know that -" her laughter is soft, "It... Reminded me of you, actually... How he showed her a new world, and - ah! I'm rambling. I'm going to go - it's late where I am, so it's probably early for you. Lucien, make sure you sleep okay? It's not good for you to sleep so little! Also, go find a snack, you probably haven't had much all day. Oh right, I was hoping to make some cream puffs soon! I found this different recipe - a macha inspired one, it's currently trending online! I have no idea if it'll taste nice, but I'm sure it'll be an adventure. Anyway, I'm heading to bed. Make sure you sleep. Oh - I said that already. Goodnight!"

His chuckle is soft, his pale skin wanly lit by the glow of the phone, his pen scratching lightly against the report, the clock ever-creeping towards the dawn.

Your voice was like the patter of the rain he'd missed when he was in England, during that night of study and the assignment was due. It was the feeling of existing in the same world, even miles away, being absorbed in your world was fascinating.

There was also.. something innately comforting in listening to you. Something he could concentrate on, while the files in front of him consisted of simple admin duties he should really have an assistant complete.

It was the sunshine in the dark, a bubble of joy between the moving of the night's clouds against his dimly lit desk.

It made him want home, he want - you. Despite doing work he knew would help the current state of the world, despite everything else, his home never strayed far from your arms. A voice still paled (literally ha) to what was really you. The way you reacted to him, that was where the magic truly came alive.

His voice notes, on the other hand, would come in the manner during his journey to the lab in the morning. Occasionally his voice rustling in the sheets as he readied himself for bed, slow and modulated, each answer a poetry unto themselves. It would make you marvel at how beautiful his voice was, to make such silly topics of conversations of yours into discussions that felt real. He'd never make you out as dumb, even if your observations were perkily mundane, or wacky or just plain silly. Because you, you never made it boring, because it was quintessentially you - and, just like he didn't mean to, he couldn't seem to find it disinteresting.

The voice notes worked especially well sometimes, because of your odd schedules. Whilst it could never beat a face time as you spent the evening watching a movie together, or how a phone call to tell the news of his arrival home, but it kept the emptier space filled in the times of silence.

༄ Gavin

Gavin finds it harder to begin a voice note. It's much easier, he finds, to reply to yours. Voice notes you make are like a springboard to find the thoughts going through his mind at the time, by replying to you.

His urge to say "over" at the end is nearly impossible to overwrite at first, but he manages to do so. He loves you, but would hate to feel like you thought you were some sort of work message was obligated to answer.

Also, your teasing game had stepped up lately and he wasn't just going to let you win with that ammunition.

It's harder to keep weariness out of his tone when he's away on mission though (on the rare occasion when it's not a communication blackout).

You find it rather hard to send him voice messages when you know he's tired. But you two do have a conversation to work out what was the best way to stay in contact, and decide that he finds the voice notes reassuring, like a status update confirming that you were still maintaining health, but with the knowledge that it was you, and you were sending him things that made you happy. Pictures and silly captions were encouraged too.

It became more about the knowledge of your happiness inside your world that made him pleased, and relieved, to see them. Like a touch on the back of his hand, confirming your wellbeing, telling him you were okay.

He especially appreciated your voice notes when you were sleepy, it was the cutest thing to hear your yawn. Sometimes his chest ached with such longing all he wanted was to lie beside you, stroke your hair with your head on his chest. To look at you like you were his world..

You were.

He prefers calls or texts to connect, it's easier for him to commit to shorter, more instant dopamine-laced interactions when he's on the move. The times that he would voice note you with confidence is when he knows you're in bed, and he's there able to watch the stars from his vantage point. He's looking at them, describing what constellations are in the sky, and if they would be different from yours.

Any unique stars or moon phenomenons happening in Loveland that night, you'd be the first to know. He'd likely send you a text, maybe even the link to the astrology journal if he has time between sleeping and eating before rushing out of the door, he'd send it to you.

Sometimes if there was a local shrine or history to do with the town or city he's in, he'd tell you and even potentially make a plan to go there with you - if it's safe enough after his mission is completed. He's a do-er, through and through. Making plans and being around you feels the most authentic and best use of his time, rather than an online presence. If there was a way to send little notes in the air on the wind to you, that would be his idealised form of communication. Short, sweet but completely romantic. Also, it'd be nice to give you a note without causing you a heart attack like when it had been damaged or stained with blood.

Your voice notes to him when you're on the way to work often lament the fact you'd rather be on Sparky, an acute adrenaline rush before work just the kick-start you'd need to get your ideas pumping. Or it's the flower boutique you stopped by on the way to work, and you'd gotten you guys tickets for a basketball match in a few week's time, or that you'd gotten a compliment from a stranger about your bracelet. A natural, almost organic way of storytelling - light, uplifting and with a hint of normalcy.

Sometimes he wished he could tell you about his day, that information didn't have to be classified, but he keeps it locked in his chest. Whilst it helped to keep his work life separated from the purity of the influence of your life, he sometimes could only admire how candid you were with him. That you could say something and laugh, just like that, and even if you felt silly, know that your words were safe with him. It brings him back to the real world, grounds him in a distantly positive way. With your voice, he can almost find himself refreshed when he gets back to the mission at hand. Having a break and a dose of talk from you, were some of the key things that helped him investigate and keep himself motivated.

Basically, you're his tiny motivational speaker in disguise. >_<

Also, if Eli sees your voice notes, he might get daring one time and send one back if Gavin leaves his phone unattended.

"Hey," *whispers* "Eli here. Currently undetected by our Captain, but -"

"Give it back."

"**** - hey I didn't mean to -"

*recording deleted*

"Sorry about that, Eli was just going to go and clean the locker room. Since it's obviously clear he has nothing better to do than snoop on someone else's phone."

A little "Aww man." could be heard in the background as you can almost hear the loving smile in Gavin's voice, as he said

"I'll see you later tonight, I shouldn't be too late home. Have a good day - uh, bye."

Minor would not even dare touch Gavin's phone after hearing a chilling story about how the last guy who had touched Gavin's phone without permission, didn't come out of the STF compound without needing three showers first.

Eli was never heard from again sure he just survived the wrath of a polar bear.

Bonus -

☔︎ Shaw:

He would not have the attention span to listen to voice notes. And he'd also be absolutely clear about this.

"You think I have time to listen for seven minutes when you can summarise it in two?

"Honestly, if I have to attend another lecture I think I would fall asleep."

"Hey, I'm not being a jerk. I'll listen to you if you call, you know. Nothing can be that important it can't be said in person."

"Stop throwing stuff at me. I'm being honest."

You continue to pout, until he flicks you on the forehead and you roll your eyes

"Fine. I won't then."

"Don't say I didn't warn you when I don't respond."

"I just said I wouldn't!" you huff, and when you see his smirk you throw another cushion at him.

He definitely can be best at texting. Low energy commitment, and he can still tease you with no actual threat of punishment. He will prefer you being sassy back over on the phone, and will enjoy the banter that way more and still leave you stuttering with indignation. It cracks him up.

It's a "she's such an idiot I love her" feeling for most of his calls that he makes to you. He hates that he's slightly addicted to your angry squeaks, like a very silly, angry little hamster he loves to keep on poking.

You hate that you love him teasing and mocking like that, because it was him, capcrious and untamed, loud mouthed and full of an attitude that could worry the frown lines off a therapist.

Stupidly, and beautifully himself.

Soo... Short and sweet, right? 😂

I love these guys. They're adorable. Thanks for reading! ฅ^•ﻌ•^ฅ

[perhaps-in-anotherdream]

[CN] Li Zeyan’s upcoming date!

“I have enough patience to wait for you to come to my side.”

“You can take your time to explore my boundaries.”

—

[evolimagines]

hey hey!! idk if you’re still doing requests, but if you are can i request a little kiro x singer!mc like a thing where they’re both famous maybe their agencies made them collab on a song or smth!! ik its very broad but just go crazy!!! ty in advance 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

A/N: alright lets get these asks ANSWERED ! that being said forgive me if these are a bit generic im not good with generalized requests but i'm sure i can think of smth especially for my boy kiro lets see

Kiro With A Singer S/O

Ah, someone who understands the idol life! Even if you're not necessarily an idol, I'm gonna assume the lifestyles are similar enough that you know full well what he does and how busy it is lmao. So he doesn't need to feel bad about how hectic everything can get!

Oh you KNOW he's suggesting that collab as soon as possible. Even if we say you're not dating yet, he's definitely the type to take one look at you and bug Savin about it like "pleasepleasepleasepleaseple-". When in doubt annoy Savin lol. Anyway he is very quick to get to know you if you haven't already we already know how charming Kiro can be!

Honestly expect a lot of collabs with him, he's just so clingy and loves performing with you !!! That being said if some of the songs are a bit more, uh. suggestive than others don't worry about it he's just being a little silly goofy. Nothing too bad though I promise !

This is kinda already canon but its advanced here: lots of songs dedicated to you ! He knows you understand music just as much as he does so this is like his best way of communicating how much he loves you as he knows you'll receive the message loud and clear!

Lots of undercover dates, also kinda canon but well now there's BOTH of your fans to worry about. It's fine though because Kiro is a master of disguise and determined to make sure all your dates proceed as planned ! Just don't be surprised if some of the disguises turn out to be a bit silly.

[thedummysdummy]

Given the Opportunity...

A request of a request. You know who you are ;)

~~~~~~~~

At no point in the year would more fame and fortune be found in a single room. Soft music floated from the string quartet in the northeastern corner of the room and over the guests, mostly ignored and definitely underappreciated. Smartly-dressed waiters carried trays of tiny hors d'oeuvres and cocktails in and amongst the glittering, glistening, and glamorous guests. A low level of chatter lay like a blanket over the scene, as warm and inviting as the golden lighting. 

Victor really didn’t care for any of it. 

The businessman sat at a table in the corner, welcoming those who approached, but making no moves to approach anyone else. He’d been invited as one of the sponsors of this year’s entertainment awards; duty got him through the door, but little more than that. If the girl had been there he might have actually managed to enjoy himself. However, she currently stood behind a camera in Bali. Without him. 

“Have fun, okay? Maybe not as much fun as you had last time I told you to have fun, but I don’t want you to just sit in the corner and pout the entire party. Goldman swore to me he’d get you home safely.” 

His sweetheart’s words echoed through his mind and Victor began to chuckle. She sure did know him, didn’t she? He stood and forced himself to approach the center of the room where most of the party was occurring. A waiter wandered past with a tray of scotch, which Victor happily reached out and obtained. The fiery liquid rolled down his tongue into his belly where it warmed him from the inside out. 

“You’re Mr. Li of LFG, aren’t you?” an unfamiliar voice called out. Victor looked up from his drink and found the voice attached to Ms. Elnora Vaughn, one of the most highly acclaimed actresses of the year. He nodded and her face lit up. “I thought so! My, you are even more handsome in person, I must say.”

Victor lifted his cup to hide the eye roll. He recognized blatant attempts at flirtation when he saw them and had no intent to give anyone the wrong idea. “I’m in a permanent relationship. But thank you for the compliment.” He finished his drink and placed the empty cup on a passing tray, then disappeared into the crowd. 

The first drink had him feeling quite pleasant and Victor soon reached for another. And another. He had a high tolerance, after all. And a few drinks definitely made a room full of high-and-mighties much easier to bear. There was no way he would over drink. 

Such were the thoughts of someone more concerned with avoiding a certain Ms. Vaughn than with keeping track of how much alcohol he had consumed. Each went down easier than the last until he had to sit to avoid becoming better acquainted with the floor. 

This had the unfortunate consequence of making him a sitting duck. 

Within minutes, Ms. Vaughn seated herself in a chair only inches away from Victor. “Mr. Li, you are a hard man to keep track of! Glad to see you’re finally stationary for a moment. I wanted to get to know you a little better!” She scooted her chair a little closer to Victor as if testing his limits. 

He scooted his chair a little farther away. 

“Why don’t you tell me a little more about yourself, Mr. Li? It’s so rare that you’re available for conversation! What kinds of things do you like?” 

Victor turned his head a little slowly, feeling like his brain was sloshing around in his skull. It probably was, honestly. “I like my girlfriend. She’s the most beautiful woman on the face of the planet.” His words held just the slightest fuzzy edge, but really didn’t reveal the extent of his drunkenness. “I love my girlfriend. She should be here, not in Bali. She should be here with me where she belongs.” 

A slight sigh of frustration slipped from Elnora’s lips and she seemingly felt the need to try another tactic. She scooted closer to the table and hiked up her chest just enough to ensure her assets were displayed to their full size. She then leaned over toward Victor and looked up at him through her lashes; he didn’t even glance at her display. “I hear you’re quite the romantic. That girlfriend of yours better appreciate you! You’re the entire package, you know.” Elnora fluttered her lashes and smiled, though her eyebrows narrowed when this still seemed to have no effect. 

A vacant smile spread across Victor’s face and he closed his eyes, picturing the girl behind his eyelids. “She deserves the entire world. And I’ll give her the entire world. She’s the only person in the world.” 

“Isn’t she just some producer or something? You deserve more than that, Mr. Li. You could have any woman in the world. Why settle for some…nobody?” She reached out and placed a hand on Victor’s arm, which he whipped away with a scowl on his face. 

“Don’t touch me! My girlfriend is perfect. You should meet her. She would make your life better. She does that. Even though she’s a dummy, she makes life better.” Victor leaned forward in his chair and scowled, his soggy brain processing whether he had enough sobriety to stand up without making a spectacle of himself. Even in this state, he had the sense to get out of this situation. “Good night, Ms. Whoever. I need to go find my girlfriend.”  Elnora watched Victor stumble into the crowd, her eyebrows encroaching on her nose’s territory with how low they scrunched. Never before had a man so blatantly refused to give her even the time of day! Especially when they were as unsteady on the drink as Victor seemed to be. Was she losing it? That thought only made her more annoyed. She slammed the rest of Victor’s abandoned drink and wandered off into the crowd herself to make sure he was the problem in this equation.

[the-other-art-blog]

Why Benophie season is the perfect way to finish the first half of the Bton stories?

Now that Benophie season is unofficially confirmed, I've come to the conclusion that this was the greatest way to end the first half of Bton. It needed to be s4.

In the ton, marriage is about status. And while all Bton marriages are love matches, they are also incredibly beneficial for their position in society. The ENTIRE family's position in society.

Anthony is a viscount, an influential one, but in the nobility hierarchy, he's second to last.

Daphne climbed up 3 steps when she married Simon and became a Duchess.

Francesca will climb one step when she marries John.

Kate didn't have a title or wealth, but a married Viscount is an improvement over a rake Viscount.

Colin is only a Mr., but I will be surprised if the Featherington baby race doesn't end with Pen having a boy who will become Baron. He's going to be the father of a Lord thanks to Penelope.

So you can see how these marriages are extremely beneficial to them and elevate the entire family. Daphne understood this when she said that her marriage would set the prospects for her sisters. Anthony also knew that his choice of viscountess would affect the family.

So, by the time Benedict meets Sophie, the family will have a viscounty + relations with a duchy, an earldom, and a barony. They just need a march to have the full set.

Enter Benedict who will fall in love with a servant AND an illegitimate daughter.

If he marries her, he risks undoing all the work his siblings have done to maintain the family in good standing.

The book doesn't address this, but I wish the show would. It would add another dimension to Benedict's reasons to not marry Sophie. He would be thinking of the family. What would happen to Eloise, Hyacinth, and Gregory? They will no longer be siblings to nobles, they will be related to an illegitimate child and servant. Who will want to marry them? Is it fair to affect their prospects when they haven't even had a chance at society? (Read The Secrets of Sir Richard Kenworthy) Perhaps it hurts the already-married siblings too.

I'm thinking about Ben and Violet's scene. Sophie refuses to be a mistress and Ben has already decided to marry her. But there's still this issue lingering. Is it right to drag the whole family to get what he wants? Wouldn't that be the most selfish thing anyone could do? In the book, Violet says this,

Imagine if she adds, "and your siblings will support you too."

EDIT: The thing about this scene is that Benedict was ready to leave if the family didn't support him and Sophie.

This is also a great way to bring back the Sharmas' background. Mary was cast out for marrying a clerk, leaving Edwina in an unfavorable position. If the Queen hadn't named her the diamond, it would have been very difficult for her to get a good match. Not to mention that Mary's parents considered hated Kate and insulted her parents for being common people.

You can see why Benedict is afraid of the family's reaction. The Sheffields said that after Mary left, they couldn't show their faces in London for years. He wouldn't want to do that to his family. Sophie wouldn't want that either.

This is why it is so great to have Benophie come in s4. Not that a duchy and a viscount wouldn't have been enough, but this way is much more dramatic and LEGENDARY.

Despite the risks, the family will support Benedict AND Sophie. They'll support her too cause they know her and they love her even before they knew about Ben's feelings.

It's a test, not only for Benedict but for the family.

MORE EDITS:

I also think that Queen Charlotte will hate the Bridgertons after s3. She has been trying to arrange their marriages for 3 seasons, and they have all ignored her and made their matches independently. So, maybe Benedict will be worried because his marriage to Sophie will only worsen the situation.

[rosemaidenvixen]

Arcadia Oaks High School Drama Department Presents: A Christmas Carol

I have no explanation for this other than it came to me in a vision and I knew it to be true. Arcadia Oaks high school puts on a play of A Christmas Carol. Who would be playing what roles and why.

First off who plays the man, the myth, the legend, the star of the show himself Ebenezer Scrooge? That would be Steve Palchuk. This isn't just because of Steve's heel turn from bully to ally (although there is some fitting poetry there) but because he has the best acting chops to pull it off. He can bark out the harshest Bah Humbugs in one scene then be practically radiant with Christmas joy in another. Steve canonically auditioned so well for the role of Captain DJ Kleb he nearly usurped the roll from the actual DJ Kleb. He's a perfect fit for playing Ebenezer.

Next up is Jim as Bob Crachet. Jim I love you but a thespian you are not. Jim an play it cool in tight situations but creating big emotions for big roles isn't his strong suit. Playing Bob Crachet works well because any nervousness he has about playing the role can be worked into the character. Plus I imagine him and Steve have a lot of fun getting into their characters and playing off each other.

Aja plays Mrs. Crachet. Not only do she and Jim work really well together and have good chemistry on set, but Aja has a great time cursing "Scrooge" for his miserly ways as part of her role. Gently teasing her boyfriend about it. Although Mrs. Janeth has lecture the two of them how Mrs. Crachet and Ebenezer Scrooge shouldn't make out in costume where audience members might spot them.

Scrooge's nephew Fred is played by Krel. He grumbled about the jokes of how his sisters boyfriend is playing his uncle "So does this make me your brother in law or your uncle in law?" "Watch it oaf" but he slowly warms to the role and throws himself playing Fred with the same enthusiasm he played DJ Kleb with.

Toby would play Marley. A small but critical role as a terrifying specter, perfect for Toby to sink his teeth into. He has a great time "scaring" Steve and haunting him for his sins.

The Ghost of Christmas Past would be played by Mary. The subdued personality of this ghost is a big change from Mary's usual bold, outgoing energy, but she enjoys the challenge and has fun playing a character who's personality is such a contrast to her own. And going over people's past misdeeds and evaluating their choices is right up the social media queen's alley.

Eli grumbles that he only got cast as younger Scrooge because he's the shortest in the grade. But he and Steve know each other so well that they're able to mimic each other's mannerisms. And with practice they're able to have their performances reflect each other perfectly.

Shannon plays the part of Belle, not a huge part but Shannon's busy dodging the embezzlement allegations, she doesn't have the time for a big role.

Seamus as Mr. Fezziwig. Nothing to say here except for that I was running out of characters.

I can see Darci playing Mrs. Fezziwig. She's shown before that she only likes performing in front of a crowd while wearing a mole costume mask. So she's happiest playing a minor role with only a few lines that mostly involves dancing.

On loan from Arcadia Oaks academy is Douxie playing the ghost of Christmas Present. Douxie is a theater kid through and through and brings big "Live in the moment" energy to his character, but also with a touch of seriousness. The knowledge that present actions affect the future. Which brings us to the next ghost.

They say that there's no small parts, only small actors. And while the role of ghost of Christmas Yet to Come might be a small, non speaking role, but Claire absolutely kills it. No lines but a strong, commanding presence that hits home just what a bleak Christmas yet to come looms ahead without uttering a single word.

(But again, no making out with Mr. Cratchet where audience members can spy them)

And of course who would play tiny Tim other than everyone's favorite changeling, Notenrique.

"God bless us, everyone,"

"Notenrique I don't care if you're the star, if you don't stop eating the fake snow I'm punting you into the trashcan!"

With all that said, happy holidays and let the show begin!

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Steal Your Heart (Part 1)

When the calling card of the infamous Knave of Hearts arrives, he’ll rob his victims blind of their most treasured items on the appointed date. Enter ace detective Yuu accompanied by rookie cop Deuce Spade, both seeking to apprehend the Knave and bring him to justice.

Will they succeed, or will the phantom thief steal their valuables--and their hearts--first?

This was originally meant to be one fic, but it was getting to be WAY too long. I decided to split it in half and release this part now and the second part (which I am still working on!) later. This first part focuses more on Yuu and Deuce; the second part will be more Yuu and Ace.

(Please note: there are slight romantic implications in the form of an Ace/Yuu/Deuce love triangle, but those elements could also be interpreted as platonic or as just playful teasing with no additional meaning. It’s all in the eyes of the reader!)

Imagine this...

The police station’s waiting room was a familiar sight.

With time, the shiny checkered floor had grown matte, marred with scratches and scuffs from the boots that crossed it on a daily basis. Someone had taken to attempt to pretty up the otherwise dull space by hanging out abstract paintings on the cream-colored walls, and a vase of white roses dripping with red paint at the check-in desk. There was as even a glass tank which housed a small family of colorful hedgehogs.

Maybe they were meant to be welcoming—but really, they were more clashing than anything. Certainly not a fit for the stiff atmosphere of the station.

Still the fluorescent lightbulbs buzzed faintly, flickering in and out on occasion. The sound distracted from the old television mounted in a corner to entertain guests. It seemed to play commercials on a loop more often than it played actual shows. Currently, an Olympus Corp. branded tablet was being toted as the next big technological marvel—though the TV’s audio was fuzzy at best, and the image half static.

A coffee table pushed to the wall, stacked with a new stash of magazines. Whoever updated the reading materials—most likely the friendly senior officer with orange waves for hair—was into the latest trends, often selecting fashion magazines with high gloss finishes. A dangerously beautiful man graced the covers of many of them, dressed in the hottest summertime styles while looking the part of an untouchable ice queen.

As usual, the station was scented with coffee and tea, the beverages of choice for many officers burning the midnight oil or working overtime. The chief demanded it at times to meet deadlines and goals—he was such a stickler for them—and the caffeine helped those under him stay sane as they went about their duties.

In the afternoons, most were either out on lunch or on patrol, lessening the foot traffic at HQ. There was only one man in uniform, seated behind the desk and filing some papers.

Yuu shifted in their own chair, adjusting the rim of the baseball cap upon their head. They were suited in an inconspicuous jacket and sneakers, fingers toying with a badge in a pocket, hidden out of view. To the common man, they were a jogger--but one flash of their lilac gemstone bound to a black and white striped ribbon, and there would be no doubt as to what their true identity was.

The smell of coffee and tea grew stronger, and Yuu glanced up from behind the bill of their hat.

The bespectacled man from behind the front desk had approached. He had a sheepish smile, bearing a paper cup filled with hot brown liquid and a napkin with a donut laid upon it. Bright pink icing dusted with sugared violet petals crowned the golden fried pastry.

“Detective.”

“Mr. Clover.” Yuu nodded—a terse, polite greeting. “It’s been a while, hasn’t it?”

“Please, just ‘Trey’ is fine.” He offered the treats, which they readily accepted. “Sorry for calling you in on such short notice. I’m sure you’re busy juggling your other cases—but I think I speak for the entire department when I say we’re thankful that you were able to make it.”

“No worries, I’m used to it in this line of work,” Yuu replied. “It must be something pretty urgent this time around. The Chief sounded frantic over the phone.”

Trey rubbed at his chin, grasping for the right words. “Let’s just say he’s not in the best of moods right now. You’ll need that sugar to get through this in one piece.”

“That’s very thoughtful of you.”

“Just trying to avoid any trouble. You’d better finish them before you step into his office. You know how he hates it when there are crumbs or spills in there.”

“Aye, aye, sir.” Yuu gave a joking salute before starting to pack away at their snack. The drink was the instant kind, and practically scalding, but it was easy to tell that the donut was homemade. The pastry, flaky on the outside and fluffy on the inside, dusted with sugar granules and sweet icing. “Wouldn’t want the Chief to be blowing a fuse again.”

“No, definitely not. He’s done too much of that lately.” Trey carefully eyed Yuu’s donut, now only half of it left. “Oh, but be sure to brush your teeth a thorough cleaning tonight, or I might have some problems with you. Cavities and staining are real dangers, you know.”

“Are you Assistant Chief of Police or my dental hygienist?” Yuu took a generous swig, then a bite just as big. “You worry too much about everything.”

“Ahahah… Do I? It’s a habit, I guess. Comes with the job.”

“That stressful, huh?”

“Well, I do what I can to smooth things over. Hopefully you can too. It’s been difficult on our department with the Chief all rattled up about the… situation.” He stopped himself. “I’m sure you’ll hear all about it from him.”

So the case is top-secret, Yuu concluded with the last of their donut. Not to be discussed in the public.

They ran their tongue across the length of their mouth, lapping up the remains of sugary residue. “I understand. The details are not to leave his office.”

“You catch on quickly. No wonder why the Chief thinks so highly of your abilities.”

“Flattery’s a part of your tool kit as well, Trey?”

He raised his eyebrows. “… You’ve worked long enough with us to figure these things out. Nothing gets by you, it seems.”

“UGIGIGIGIGGGGHHHH!!”

The remainder of Yuu’s drink sloshed around in its cup, set into motion by the bloodcurdling scream.

A familiar man with orange waves erupted from the chief’s office, hurriedly slamming the door shut behind him. His typically relaxed features were arranged in panic, his hair frazzled.

“How did trying to calm him work out, Cater?” Trey inquired half-heartedly. It was a courtesy more than genuine curiosity.

“What do you think?” the senior officer groaned, sinking where he stood.

Yuu quickly finished their drink, tossing their trash—the evidence they had been there—away and then stood, adjusting their jacket. “That sounds like it’s my cue.”

“Yeah, it is.” Trey sighed, frowning. “He’s in a tough spot right. Be kind to him, will you? That’s all I ask.”

“You got it.” Yuu tipped their baseball cap as they passed the officer. “Thank you for the pick-me-up. I’ll be seeing you, then. Officer Diamond—get some rest.”

“Good luck.”

“You’ll need it, Yuu-chan! Brace yourself.”

The Police Chief was a small but serious man.

His character came through in his office space: books on law and order neatly arranged on shelves, papers and files alphabetically organized in their cabinets, and pens evenly spaced apart and arranged in rows. A crystal vase with deep red roses was poised beside his writing implements. A plate polished to a fine shine was propped up at his desk, reading: Riddle Rosehearts, Chief of Police.

Perched imposingly despite his short stature in his seat, he impatiently tapped a finger on an arm. Riddle’s face was a telltale red and veiny, proof of his earlier outburst, but was beginning to cool into a faint, smooth pink.

There was already another man in the office, sitting across from the Police Chief. He was pale and jittery in a suit the color of the night and sewn with blue sequins and glitter. A top hat rested upon his raven locks, the brim of it shading his hauntingly golden eyes.

Yuu removed their hat and, keeping it to their chest, gave a shallow bow as they entered. “Sir.”

One move out of line, one hair out of place, and they suspected he, in his volatile and vulnerable state, would explode anew.

“Welcome, Detective. I’m glad you could join us today.” Every word was a gruff puff of air, a leash with which to wrest control of his rage. Riddle gestured to the empty chair beside the nervous man. “Sit.”

Yuu obeyed, sinking into the seat offered. They casted a glance at the stranger adjacent to them, who was fiddling with his velvet-lined gloves.

“Mr. Crowley, this is the independent detective from Stray Cat Investigations that I had previously mentioned to you. The force has collaborated with them for a number of difficult cases in the past. Their wit and strategic skills have made them an invaluable asset. I thought it prudent to have them return to join us for your case as well.

“Yuu, meet Dire Crowley. He is the esteemed director and curator for the Sage’s Island Museum, and he’s come to us with his woes.”

“Hello, Mr. Crowley,” Yuu said politely. “It’s nice to meet you.”

He responded with a tired attempt at a smile. “Yes, you too.”

“Now that we’re all acquainted with one another...” Riddle produced a file from beneath his desk and placed it before himself. “Do you care to explain, or shall I?”

“I-I’ll elaborate!” Crowley crowed. He picked at a collection of keys belted to his waist, glistening gold under artificial lights. “The Sage’s Island Museum is planning a new exhibition on the Great Seven. As part of the exhibit, we are having many priceless artifacts flown in from all over Twisted Wonderland. We have donations from even Briar Valley’s royal family!!

“There will also be a great number of important VIP guests present for the grand opening of the exhibit. Royalty, wealthy benefactors, important diplomats, businessmen, celebrities... All individuals who wish to see their history on display! This is very important, you see!! M-My reputation--er, I mean, the museum’s reputation--is on the line here!!”

“Right.” Yuu nodded as they parsed through the information. “I’m following what you’re putting down. And where does your problem arise, Mr. Crowley?”

“Ah, now that,” Riddle smirked, “is the question of the hour.”

He opened his file, pulling out...

A single playing card, its back facing Yuu.

“I trust you’ve been keeping up with the news?”

“As any good detective would. There have been several robberies lately. Terrible, really.” Yuu’s expression clouded with concentration. “Hmm... but if it’s a potential robbery that you’re concerned about, Mr. Crowley... Doesn’t the Sage’s Island Museum boast a state-of-the-art security system from Olympus Corp.? I doubt the average thief would be able to bypass it.”

“That’s just the trouble,” Crowley loudly lamented.

“We are dealing with no ordinary thief,” Riddle clarified.

“It’s not?”

“No. Far from it.” The Police Chief exhaled sharply. “The string of robberies from before--they’re connected by a single thread, perpetuated by the same lone culprit. And now that scoundrel intends to continue his crime spree.”

“I’ve never heard of this before.”

“You shouldn’t have. It was a top-secret operation within my force since the first of its kind.”

“Why am I being told of it now?”

“Because, loathe as I am to admit it, the culprit has managed to outwit us and elude capture each and every time, He employs a bag of cheap parlor tricks and smoke and mirrors like the coward he is,” Riddle confessed begrudgingly. The blue-grey of his eyes were steely and stubborn. “A case as important as this needs the additional man—and brain—power, Detective.”

He placed the playing card down and slid it toward the detective. “This arrived in the morning at Mr. Crowley’s desk, the same as all the prior robberies. It gave him quite the fright. He rushed all the way to the station to beg for our assistance.”

“This is...” Yuu gingerly turned the card over, revealing a message scrawled on the other side in bright red gel ink. Each letter was big and bubbly, bursting with cheek and pomp.

Their heart jumped.

To the Old Crow that safeguards the Museum,

Heyo~

Your pockets look a lil’ heavy there, so I’ll help you out. (Aren’t I so kind?) Three days from now, I’ll claim one of your most prized treasures at the stroke of midnight.

Stand back and watch as I perform the greatest magic trick you’ll ever see... and make the portrait of the Queen of Hearts vanish before your very eyes. It’ll be a show-stopper!!

Until then,

Phantom Thief Knave of Hearts <3 ;3

P.S. Send the cops my regards, they can’t catch me lol (especially when their teapot tyrant’s patience is in SHORT supply geddit)

“They’re just flat-out announcing what their intentions are,” Yuu realized. They were half impressed, half shocked at the gall. “You said all of the victims received messages like this?”

“Calling cards, yes.” The fury had returned to Riddle’s features, causing his voice to spike and strain. “It’s infuriating!! What does he get off on, misappropriating magic as cheap parlor tricks for crime, writing notes in such a cocksure manner, taunting us to pursue him?!

“Not only is he poking fun at my height and committing a crime, but for mere SPORT?! For the THRILL of it?! He’s making a mockery of the good people of this island and of my men and our efforts to secure the peace!!”

The Police Chief slammed a fist down on his desk, rattling his glass vase and setting his perfectly straight pens askew. Crowley shrunk back in fear. “That Knave of Hearts...!! He must be stopped at all costs!!”

“Y-Yes, absolutely!!” Crowley chimed in. “For my--er, I mean, for the museum’s sake, this criminal must be put behind bars!! That’s why I’ve come to you, my good people!

“My taxpayer dollars help fund the police force, so I’ve come to collect on what its promise to protect and to serve the community!! Well, here’s the community at your doorstep asking you to protect and to serve!!”

“That’s why you want to put me on this case,” Yuu concluded, clasping the calling card to their racing heart. “To prevent this from going down tonight.”

“And furthermore,” Riddle added, “to investigate the identity of this so-called phantom thief once the museum is safely secured.”

“That’s a tall order, sir.”

“You’ll have access to our force’s resources, and to my officers. You will assist in overseeing this operation, with maps and outlines of the museum’s security detail from Mr. Crowley. We’ll cooperate to create a plan of attack to apprehend the Knave.”

“You misunderstand me. I never said I wouldn’t take the job,” Yuu coolly informed the Chief. Their mouth cocked upwards with confidence. “I’m always up for a challenge.”

“Oh, blessed day!! From the very bottom of my oh-so-generous heart, thank you very much!!” Crowley cried tearfully.

For the first time the entire briefing, Riddle smiled back at Yuu. “Hmph. That’s what I like to hear. Happy to be working with you again, Detective.”

“Likewise, Chief.”

The sun had already set when Yuu exited the station, the stars blinking into existence. Several hours had been spent picking the museum curator’s brain with a fine-toothed comb, looking over layouts, and memorizing security detail. The information had been well-stocked, and now came the time to let it marinate and bloom into plans.

Stuffing their hands in their pockets, Yuu shuffled down the sidewalk and past rows of parked vehicles. Ahead, neon lights flashed in and out, and the trains rattled on their well-worn tracks, buses and cars honking at each other, the chatter of street vendors filling the air.

And something different than the usual tonight.

The city never slept, always buzzed with energy. Yuu had become accustomed to its sights and sounds, finding them even comforting. Their best ideas were conceived against the hum of the cityscape. It was just soft enough to not fully distract, but just noticeable enough to tug at their thoughts for long enough to stray into new territories and concepts.

Light from lonely streetlamps created tears in the darkness, illuminating the path to their favorite downtown thinking spot: the Mostro Lounge. A good (albeit overpriced) drink would chase away their tiredness.

Yuu continued with that promise in mind, every step catlike. First quick, next slow, then quick, moderate, slow, quick, slow, quick, moderate. Their speed, ever alternating.

Their ears strained against the sounds of the city, slowly parsing through the individual elements.

Trains, buses, cars, chatter… and the soft footsteps masked by them. Footsteps which matched Yuu’s pace.

There was no mistaking it now.

I’m being followed.

They didn’t look to see who it was—the first rule of tailing a target was to never alert them to your awareness. Yuu would know (as oftentimes they were the one in the position of tailer).

They cast their eyes across the street, which was busy with bodies. Once Yuu merged with the crowd, they could easily shake off their stalker.

Their feet picked up their pace again, hurrying to the crosswalk. It was a glaring red, advising pedestrians to stop.

Shoot, Yuu cursed.

They felt a presence step up beside them. From the corner of their eye, they could make out a dark form--clothes. Yuu pretended to check the time on their phone, and glimpsed him in the reflection.

He was in a hoodie, with the hood pulled up and head down to conceal his features. His hands, too, were out of sight, a sea of baggy fabric hiding identifying features, save for his frame. Lanky, but reasonably packed with muscle to keep up with Yuu.

The man shifted, and his sight grazed theirs. His eyes were hard and icy, a silent threat.

Yuu quickly focused on the crosswalk light. Their heartbeat became as loud as the surrounding sounds. Screeching above the vehicles, shouting from the rooftops. THA-THUMP, THA-THUMP, THA-THUMP.

At last, the light turned from red to white.

Walk.

They started--and so did he.

“Excuse me.” A hand came upon their shoulder. The other pulled at something with a sinister glint. “Do you have a second?”

No walking, Yuu corrected themselves. Run!!

They sprinted down the crosswalk, jostling pedestrians with a hasty “sorry!” thrown back at them. As Yuu weaved through the crowd as fast as they could, they could not completely shunt out the man after them.

“Hey, please wait!! Where are you going?! C-Come back, I need to talk to you!”

His voice carried above the others. People jolted back, the crowd parting to make way for the man to charge forth. His volume swelled louder and louder as he gained on them.

Towering apartments seemed to bear down on Yuu. Their windows, glaring.

A shop. Find a shop and get inside!!

Yuu pumped their arms, pleaded for their legs to move more efficiently.

Again, a weight fell upon their shoulder. It was a clamp, fingers biting Yuu’s skin through their jacket as they dug in and held firm.

The other hand wielded the same shining object that it had before. Yuu looked more closely this time, and the unease in them dissipated. It was not the pointed tip of a knife, but the glint of a familiar officer’s badge wreathed in golden roses.

The man tore off his hood with a sigh--though Yuu noticed that he wasn’t one bit out of breath. Navy bangs fell across his forehead, his eyes a peacock green-blue, much friendlier under the streetlamps than the crosswalk signs.

He smiled at Yuu as though he were greeting an old friend. His grip turned into a tender squeeze. “I finally caught up with you!”

The detective awkwardly pulled away, confusion scrawled on their face. “Um... Sorry, who are you? I don’t believe we’ve met before.”

“Oh! Uh...” The man jumped, retracting his hand. “That’s because we haven’t! Er, not officially anyway, but I’ve heard a lot about you!!”

Yuu pointed to his badge. “That. You’re an officer?”

“Yessir!” The man offered the proof of his identity and stiffly saluted. “Officer Deuce Spade, sir!! I’m a new recruit...!! I just joined the force a few weeks ago!”

Yuu mustered a faint smile. The darned fool was going to give them away. “... Am I in trouble, officer?”

“Nossir! Not at all!” His entire face shone with eagerness, earnest, and a slightly nervous energy. Maybe Yuu would have found it adorable (in the same way that a child trying hard was adorable), were he not blasting your occupation to the public. “Why would you be in trouble, sir?! You’re working with...”

“Okaaay, that’s enough out of you!” Yuu slapped a hand over Deuce’s mouth, silencing him.

Curious onlookers murmured amongst themselves. Some had taken to halt and full-on gawk. Children pointed, adults narrowing their eyes with suspicion.

Yuu frowned, removing their hand to shoo pedestrians away. “Nothing to see here, folks. Just a misunderstanding. Move along, Wonder Boy and I can settle this ourselves.”

“Wonder Boy?” Deuce, in a daze, pointed to himself. “Is that... me?”

“Who else would I be talking about?” Yuu folded their arms. “I assume you’re free now?”

“I am, sir! I was just let off my shift a little while ago, sir!”

“First, drop the ‘sir’. It’s giving me a headache,” Yuu instructed. “Second, if you’re free, then you’ll be joining me for a drink and a chat. We have things to discuss--chief among them being why you were following me.”

Ring-a-ling!

A bell sounded as the door to the Mostro Lounge swung open. Deuce stepped into a new world, Yuu at his side.

The interior itself was dim, but glass lights fastened in the shape of jellyfish projected swimming incandescent lights in purple, blue, and pink. Velvet booths lined one half of the eatery, the other, a glossy bar with tall, narrow stools, the shelves behind it healthily stocked with bottles in jeweled tones. Strangers poised with drink took residence in most of the seats.

The entire back wall had been repurposed into a massive aquarium teeming with aquatic plants and exotic creatures. Seaweed and coral gently swayed to the rhythm of the smooth jazz floating through the lounge, fish frolicking among them.

“Whoooa,” Deuce gasped, craning his head to drink in every detail. “I’ve never been to a place as classy as this. It looks so expensive. You think my salary’s enough to cover at least an appetizer?”

“Hang on tight to your wallet,” Yuu warned. “This place will squeeze you for every thaumark you’re worth and then some—and they won’t feel a bit of remorse about it.”

The detective raised an arm, flagging a nearby waiter.

Their uniform was simple yet sleek: dark dress pants, a white bow tie, spotless gloves, and a cummerbund and suspenders over a lavender button-up shirt. It allowed for slight variation—one waiter skidded by with his shirt buttoned as low as food safety regulations deemed safe. Another jotted down orders with a jacket thrown over his shoulders and a pair of glasses tucked into the crevice of his buttons.

The waiter Yuu called out to approached like a shark fin cutting through still water, neatly bowing to greet their waiting customers. He was prim and proper compared to the other servers, not a button out of place.

When he raised his head, Deuce marveled at his mismatched olive and gold irises, the teal of his hair marred by a stripe of black. Three diamond-shaped scales dangled from his left ear, as sharp as his eyes.

“I bid you welcome to the Mostro Lounge, honored guests,” the waiter said smoothly. He gaze immediately cut to Deuce. “I see you’ve brought a friend with you, today, Yuu-san. How delightfully rare.”

“Acquaintance. We just met outside under… less than ideal circumstances.”

“Oya, how quick you were to seize on that chance encounter. I may even deem you a bigger opportunist than our dear manager.”

“… Is that a good thing or a bad thing?” Deuce inquired.

“Perhaps you will find the answer to your question, should you act as a patron at our establishment for long enough.”

“Quit toying with him, Jade. You know what we’re here for,” Yuu grumbled. “My usual.”

“If that is what you wish. And for this gentleman acquaintance of yours?”

“Just ice water is fine, sir!”

Jade maintained his polite smile. “Very well. One glass of ice cold water for you. I will bring you a menu as well, in case you begin to feel peckish late into the night.”

“Oh, thanks!”

“Right this way then.” Jade gestured for the two to follow him.

“He’s upselling you, you know,” Yuu pointed out under their breath. “Hoping that you’ll buy something when presented with the opportunity to spend.”

“E-Eh, he is?! I didn’t even realize…”

“Fufufu. Please, do not let your worries consume you. You have come to relax, correct? We at the Mostro Lounge ask that you put your fins and your feet up and enjoy yourself while the night is still young.”

They were escorted to two empty stools in a (relatively) quiet corner of the bar. The glass jellyfish lights were clustered in the center of the main dining area, leaving the corner like a slice of dark, uncharted waters. Jass music and conversation filtered into a muffled melody.

Yuu plopped down with relief, followed by an apprehensive Deuce. He slowly sank into the cushy seat.

“I will be right back with your drinks. If you will excuse me.” With another bow, Jade rounded the bar and rolled up his sleeves—the transition from waiter to bartender. Presenting his back to the duo, he set to plucking bottles off of the shelves.

Deuce blinked. He still hadn’t taken to fully processing his new surroundings. “Are we really going kick back and have drinks when there’s a serial thief on the loose?”

“We can’t talk about that in public, or risk blowing my cover. It’s safe to talk here,” Yuu reassured him. “What happens in the Mostro Lounge stays in the Mostro Lounge. Say what you want about the slimy staff, but they know how to keep their patrons’ secrets. Client confidentiality and all.”

The young officer brightened. “Ooooh, I get it!”

“… You’re not the sharpest tool in the shed,” Yuu remarked bluntly. They slipped off their baseball cap, letting loose their hair. “So? Let’s have it.”

“Have what?”

“Your reason for following me.”

“Oh!! That.” Deuce nervously scratched at the back of his neck. “That’s kind of…”

The detective drummed their fingers on the polished counter. Methodical, deliberate. “You mentioned that you recently joined the force. However, only senior officials in the police department and myself were privy to this operation. How did you come to learn about it?”

Deuce stiffened, thrown off his beat (if he had any to begin with). “Th-That’s…!”

“I’m asking you a question, Mr. Spade. Please answer me truthfully.”

“I… um… Truth is, I…” Deuce stared at his lap, unable to meet the detective’s eyes. “I might have eavesdropped when I returned from my patrol shift…”

“Go on,” Yuu coaxed.

“There was a report I had to submit to the Chief, but it sounded like he was busy in his office. It’s hard to not notice him when he raises his voice, sir. I decided to wait outside until he was done, and… well, I got curious.”

“Wasn’t Assistant Chief Clover also present? He just let you do that without a single protest?”

“Assistant Chief Clover was very nice to me! He laughed a little and said ‘make sure you don’t get caught with your hand in the cookie jar’!”

Darn it, Trey!! You could’ve been a LITTLE stricter with this guy…! Yuu groaned, massaging the bridge of their nose. “Okay, I think I’m starting to get a better picture of what went down. You followed me wanting to learn more about the operation.”

Like a curious child chasing after a white rabbit. Still immature, still wondering, and still way over their head.

“Yes, but that’s not all!” Deuce insisted. He abruptly stood from the table. “There’s an even more important reason than just satisfying my curiosity, sir!”

Yuu quirked an eyebrow. “And what’s that?”

“I had to talk to you—without the Chief around. I had to. That’s why I followed you in secret.” The officer nibbled his lower lip, as if biting back something harsh and bitter from coming up.

“Out with it, Mr. Spade.”

“Pardon the intrusion,” Jade coolly interjected. His tone was nonchalant but his bemused smile was a telltale sign that he was relishing in every second of the hot gossip. “Your beverages.”

He slid two glasses between Yuu and Deuce before departing. One was tall and slim—a highball—loaded with carbonated water and fruity gummies. Yellow for jeweled pineapples, red for ruby berries, green for frozen mint, black for floral cacao, and blue from pure azure salt. It was Yuu’s usual, the famed Mystery Drink. The other glass was, by comparison, an ordinary drink of water, a single large, clear cube of ice floating in it.

A bead of sweat ran down Deuce’s jawline. Condensation forming and racing on his glass of water.

Suddenly, the officer slapped both hands on the counter, slamming his face down upon its surface. His navy hair splayed, forehead touching the table in a display of humility.

Yuu almost spilled their drink. “What are you doing?”

“I’m begging you, sir!! P-Please put me on the mission!!” Deuce pleaded, his voice shaky but resolute. “I… I want to help catch the Knave of Hearts too!!”

“If that’s all you wanted, why ask me? Go through the proper channels to…”

“I can’t!! The Chief would never allow it.” His expression creased with shame. “He says rookies need to work their way up from meter maid to working on cases.”

“He’s right. You need to grow into these things, not rush in head-first in a burst of passion.” Yuu made to take a sip of their drink—but the officer’s fist collided with the counter, the liquid inside the glass sloshing overboard. Seltzer water splashed onto their pant leg, leaving a sticky wet spot on a thigh.

“P-Please reconsider! I know how to handle myself in a fight! I’m fast, I could easily catch up with him if it’s a race on foot!”

“Look,” the detective said irritably, “I don’t know what you’re hoping to accomplish here. Fact is, no matter how much you ask, I wouldn’t want to take you on for this case. You’re too green behind the ears—and sorry, but I just don’t see you as an asset.

“You may be strong and quick on your feet, but it’ll take more than strength and speed to catch the Knave of Hearts. There’s a reason he hasn’t been caught yet.” Yuu tapped at their temple. “It’s this. He’s got smarts, and we need to combat that with smarts of our own.”

“I-I can be smart!! I can try to, at least! Please, just let me try…!!”

Frustrated, Yuu scrutinized the young man again. Their eyes roaming, searching, for detail wrong, a hair out of place.

Years of sleuthing had built up a great amount of cynicism and distrust in the detective. How many times had they pulled back the curtain, revealing the ugly truths hidden out of plain sight? How many bruised egos--both clients and coworkers--had they encountered? People seeking status or to feed their own pride.

Yet when they looked at Deuce, none of that ugliness or ego came through. Here was someone who stubbornly stared right back at Yuu, unwilling to back down, even when his dignity lay in tatters on the floor the instant he prostrated himself.

Another selfish bid for recognition? They ventured, toying with the idea. Maybe personal ambition, looking to climb up in the world.

“... One reason,” Yuu said, holding up an index finger. “Give me one good reason why I should take you on. Convince me.”

Deuce recoiled--as though even he hadn’t expected to have made it this far, or to be taken seriously at all. His brows creased with effort as he racked the recesses of his mind to find the right phrasing.

A second later, he let out a piercing shout.

“GAAAAAAAAH!!”

With a grunt, Deuce grasped his cup of ice water and lifted it to his lips. He hammered the drink in a single swig, releasing a satisfied hoot. The liquid courage had revived the man, returning the spark to him.

In a voice as clear as the drink he had just downed, Deuce said, “It’s for my mom. She’s just about the sweetest, most hard-working person I know.”

He hung his head and slammed his empty cup down, shaking the entire table.

“She raised me as a single parent. Mom never once complained, only wanted the best life for me.” Deuce glared into his glass, speaking with scorn and anger--not at others, but for himself. “And how did I repay her? I... turned to delinquency.

“I acted out because I wasn’t man enough to do the mature thing and work on myself!! She blamed herself for my stupid decisions! I made mom worry for me so, so much...”

Plip, plip.

Deuce faltered, letting quiet tears dribble down his cheeks and landing on the cube of ice left in his glass. Once they made contact with the frozen block, it was impossible to tell what was water and what was salt.

“I swore to myself that I would turn my life around... to show mom that it’s not her fault, that she did all she could to raised someone who could contribute to society!! So I studied really hard at the police academy, and even though my grades were crappy, I managed to graduate...!!”

He choked up, a concoction of fiery passion infused in his stuttering words. “I can finally be that model officer and make a change in the community! But I haven’t done a damn thing...! I just play meter maid while bad guys are out there running free, when I could be out there making this city a safer place for mom and everyone that lives here...!!”

The noises of the lounge seemed to fade into a stoic silence around Deuce. His declaration reverberated loudly. “I have to do this. I need to do this.”

He bowed again, his forehead pressed hard against the surface of the table. The single word he uttered was hoarse, desperate.

“Please.”

Deuce pried himself up almost painfully. The eyes were aquamarine, wet with hot tears. Something shone through them in shades of blue and green, priceless as any treasure: an honesty that burned like an eternal flame.

Yuu startled, striken by a single, haunting revelation: He’s telling the truth.

“... I don’t think I’ve met someone like you before,” they said cryptically. “I don’t doubt your story—but as touching as it is, I don’t know if...”

Hesitation reared its head, and Yuu forced themselves to look away. Couldn’t bear to see him, that wide-eyed sincerity.

Emotion clashing with their sound logic. Two things that shouldn’t have belonged together colliding. 

Wait... things that don’t belong together? Things I didn’t expect, surprises and twists to the tale...

A ex-delinquent turned into a policeman. A selfishness turned selfless. An anticipated lie turned into a truth. Something there that hadn’t been before.

The detective’s mind raced, quickly outpacing the words leaving their mouth. A solution which subverted expectations, a trap laced with honey for a man with sticky fingers.

That’s it. We’ll pull a trick of our own.

“Okay, I’ve changed my mind,” Yuu abruptly announced. “You’re in on this operation, Mr. Spade.”

“R-Really?!” Deuce’s face nearly tore in half, his volume revving up like a motorcycle engine. “You mean it?!”

“I do.”

Yuu took a cool sip of their Mystery Drink. Flavors from all over Twisted Wonderland cascaded over their tongue—a triumphant, fleeting pleasure.

They set their glass down and bent over, gripping Deuce by the strings of his hoodie. Yuu tugged, bringing the policeman lurching forward.

His clammy forehead against theirs. Centimeters away, his eyes widened. A flushed heat climbed to his cheeks, his voice set in a stammer.

“S-Sir, what are we...”

“You’ll have to follow my instructions very carefully,” Yuu replied with a devious grin. “Listen up, rookie: cuz you’re going to be the star of this show. Here’s the plan...”

The ambience of the lounge drowned out Yuu’s whispers. From afar, their words could only be read through the shapes of their mouth, the increasingly confused and alarmed expressions that Deuce pulled.

Jade observed them patiently, chuckling to himself. “My, my, it seems like our genius detective has found yet another solution.”

CLATTER, CLATTER!!

A tray piled high with empty plates and dishes was slammed down. Jade’s twin peered around the stack, leaning lazily against the bar.

“Eeeh, but I bet against them this time.”

“Playing the contrarian runs its risks.” Jade picked up a glass, staring at his brother through it. The golden orb called his left eye was clear as a topaz. “As for myself, I’m excited to see how this plays out.”

PAP.

A notepad came down on the table as a third waiter joined them.

“Both of you need to stop gossiping and get back to work,” their manager chided, sliding the notepad—scrawled with fresh orders—to Jade. “Leave the customers to tend to their own business. We’ll soon know the outcome.”

[To be continued...]

[she-whatshername]

Hey, Queen, love your headcannons so much! I have a request: Could you make a headcanon on how the Marked ones would be if they were parents to (a) teenager(s)? Ik you did one with toddlers etc, but I want to see one with teens. ❤️

Hello Queen!

Thank you so much for this request, and for the Headcanon love! Ok, Marked Ones teenager edition. Hope this fills your cup!

Bodhi:

I imagine he’d have a lot of children and many around the same age as he and his partner can’t seem to keep their hands off eachother

So he’s got like his four eldest kids around the ages of 18-14 A son, second son, daughter, and third son.

Ya’ll He’d be such a good parent

Honestly, it would piss Xaden off at how much of a natural he’d be.

Though on the inside, this man is overwhelmed lolol. I imagine after the war he’s in some type of Assembly position or second hand to Xaden. So he’s always working or taking on some sort of task Xaden assigns him. I wouldn’t be surprised if Bodhi does official acts as king if Xaden is ever away.

But this man will never miss a meal with his kids. Like his mother, he’s home every evening to spend time with his family, even if he is fighting sleep

And because he’s such a family man, His kids know he is wrapped around their fingers and they can literally do anything and he’s like “okay, I’ll let it slide this time”

Mr Durran. It’s been many, many ‘let it slide this time’ lolol

He’s very hands off with them, and gives them a lot of freedom and autonomy. There’s moments when Imogen’s like, “You realize your eldest snuck out with that kid again, right?” And Bodhi responds with a “I know. They don’t think I know, but I do. And I trust that they will be smart and make good choices.”

Though, he’s also protective, so he’d follow up with, “And if that kid decides to break my son’s heart I’ll send you and Cuir after them and whoever gets to them first wins a prize of my choosing.”

And I think because of the freedom and trust he gives them, his kids are angels (they are his kids after all). There’s moments I imagine when Bodhi and Xaden are in some sort of meeting has his second eldest comes in with a frown and confesses to the idea of wanting to break into the kitchens and steal cake. Bodhi’s like “It’s okay, son. I’m so glad you told me. How about we get some together after my meeting? You know, your uncle and I were quite the thieves ourselves in the kitchens when we were younger…”

Xaden is just staring at him clenching his jaw as his cousin is gentle parenting his nephew for thinking of committing a cake heist while his daughter is sneaking out and actually committing various offenses across the kingdom with Violets approval.

Xaden:

I believe I headcannoned that he would have one child, a daughter. For this I’m saying she’s around 16. Third eldest of all the kids but the most rebellious.

I think a lot of Fen would show up when his daughter became a teenager. I know with many people saying they ‘wouldn’t be like their parents’ when they become parents but I think Xaden would slip into his father’s shoes without him knowing.

Meaning, I think he would do a lot of stuff ‘to protect her’ without actually telling her why or the reason.

But he’d be such a good dad like Bodhi. Would be a gentleman to her so she knows what standard to expect when she starts dating

He is 100% thet meme of “I took my daughter to a expensive restaurant so she knows to expect better when you try to take her to a drive thru”

Also, bless the fool who would ever try to court his daughter. He would straight up tell them they weren’t good enough for her or scare them off.

Even if Violet gave her approval of them Xaden would be so salty about it.

If they were to show up to Riorson House for a date he’d pull an old wingleader move and get Tairn and Sgaeyl swoop in and stare them down while they waited for Xaden’s daughter to get ready. Yes, they would be the overprotective dragon parents too, and it was probably Sgaeyl’s idea.

And yes, Xaden would absolutely follow the two of them on their date with his shadows until Violet caught him and made him stop

Also with Xaden, he needs counsel on managing a rebellious teenager so Bodhi is also employed in that regard. Half of their meetings are on raising moody teenagers

But Xaden loves his daughter so much. Even if they were fighting they’d always say I love you before stomping out the room because they know how important those words are.

“You’re grounded and I mean it this time. No flying for two weeks, and I love you.”

“Ughhh!! This is so not fair!! I’m telling mom…and love you too.”

Garrick & Imogen:

I put these two together because I think they would totally be the wealthy aunt and uncle of the group with no children but would spoil and enable the shit out of Bodhi and Xaden’s kids.

Like if any of the kids made a big mistake, they’d go to Garrick and Imogen before their parents

Imogen would absolutely help Xaden’s daughter with any type of sneaking out she’d be doing with her partner or to go up to the nesting grounds to fly with Andarna

Garrick would do all the smooth talking with the parents if they are ever caught assisting their nieces and nephews.

“Relax, Xaden. I made sure to put a tracking rune on her before we helped her sneak out. Shes just south of Aretia and will be fine.”

Bodhi: “Our daughter got extra assignments today because she used inappropriate language today with a classmate. She called her, and I quote - a gryphon faced shit fuck…do you know anything about this Im?” , Imogen: “…I mean it’s technically just ‘a gryphon shit for a face’ but I’m sure it had the same impact. We’ll get it right next time.”

Also, in an alternate headcanon they end up taking care of all the younger marked ones after the war. They refuse to call it fostering, those are their babies now. Garrick gives them all the choice if they want to take either his or Imogene’s last name or keep their family names. Nearly all of them become Tavis-Cardulos

[tnbc-thoughtsandheadcanons]

Sally's Lament Review

Here is my complete review of the newly-released Disney Twisted Tales book, Sally's Lament. I will be making some comparisons to the TNBC sequel novel, Long Live the Pumpkin Queen, as well as other Nightmare adaptations and Twisted Tales books I've read thus far. This book, however, will be treated as it is - a 'Twisted' Alternate-Universe take to the movie's storyline.

Spoilers below!

Overall, I loved this book, and had such a blast reading it that I ended up binging it all in one day. It is an interesting Alternate take to the question - What if Sally was the one who discovered Christmas Town? I'm so glad Nightmare was chosen to be in the Disney Twisted Tale Series, as I've always adored AU takes to my favorite film of all time - Sally's Lament being no exception.

As I usually do in my reviews, I'll be breaking it into segments, starting with:

The Writing

Mari is a wonderful writer, and I enjoyed the dialogue and characterizations in here. There is a lot of playful/friendly banter between Jack & Sally, and I actually laughed at a few scenes in this book! The comedy is on-point and the Halloween Town-like dialect from Jack and Sally is nailed to a tee. There is a great comparison you can grasp between their world and customs versus Christmas Town's.

This book does follow something similar to Shea Ernshaw's Long Live the Pumpkin Queen, where the text describes Jack Skellington having 'dark eyes' rather than eye sockets...which is a valid literary choice and all I guess, but one that still catches me off guard, nonetheless.

I've been reading a few other Disney Twisted Tales books, and the three I have read were all around 500 pages. Sally's Lament, however, only came to 352. And I think it could've benefited from another hundred or so pages - as I feel like there could've been more exploration and drama at the end to give a much more satisfying conclusion to the conflict. (More on this later, under 'Story')

Characters

Sally's Lament introduces some new characters from Christmas Town, a few minor, but here are the new major ones - Abigail, Mr. Jingles, and Sootfang.

Abigail is a porcelain doll Sally meets during her first visit to Christmas Town, one of the Christmas toys who competes in a talent show in hopes of winning a spot on Santa's sleigh to be delivered to a child. (A little bit of referencing to Rudolph with the whole 'misfit toys', I imagine!) She quickly becomes Sally's friend and aids her throughout the story.

--While reading the Twisted Tales books, it's a common trope for a new side character to come in the picture who aids our protagonist in the story. Abigail fulfills this role, even relating to Sally as a fellow doll who has an imperfection. I honestly did not think much of Abigail, but she gets an absolutely-sweet ending in the Epilogue thanks to Santa, and I thought that was nice.

Mr. Jingles is the antagonist, who serves as the Supreme Court Judge and Executioner of Christmas Town, appointed by Santa Claus himself, to sort the 'nice' and 'naughty' residents of Christmas Town. Honestly? He's not as good of a villain as Oogie Boogie is (i mean, who COULD be?), but he does serve his purpose on hunting Sally down and enforcing order in the Town. The ending to his story is pretty quick, as he is exiled from Christmas Town, and I can't really say much about his character beyond that he served his job enforcing the 'Naughty VS Nice' enforcement on the Town.

And, finally, there's Sootfang, who is a large, 'scary' charcoal creature who holds the naughty prisoners for Mr. Jingles. His true character gets revealed pretty quickly, as he is an outcast in Christmas Town for being too 'scary' and was mistreated/judged for his looks and behaviors. He relates to Jack and Sally, as well as Halloween Town, where he ends up going to and living in after the story's events. (An ending Mr. Myzer in Zero's Journey COULD HAVE gotten, but I digress..!!! *Frustrated grumbling*)

...I now realize, writing this review, that none of these characters particularly latched onto me and I almost quickly forgot two of their names after reading the book. But they serve their purpose for the story, and I'm glad to see Sally meeting and getting a new friend like Abigail. And, as always, I'm sooo open to seeing new villains in the TNBC unvierse that aren't a resurrected-Oogie Boogie.

Story

The beginning, of course, follows the movie's events up until the scene where Jack Laments in the graveyard. Here, we finally see the drastic moment that changes everything and sets in-motion this alternate-universe:

Sally leans too far against a tombstone, and reveals herself while Jack is lamenting. He sees her. She tells him she knows he feels. They have an honest conversation on the Spiral Hill, and the story ensues..! Because Sally talks with him and gets to know Jack's feelings, he doesn't end up wandering into the Hinterlands - and instead retreats back into Town. Instead, Sally gets a different premonition, and gets pulled into a game with Zero, who lures her into the Hinterlands Forest and brings her to the circle of trees.

(AKA, Zero is the catalyst of the story! You devil dog, you! <3)

We learn that the 'twisted' take on the story is during Sally's first visit into Christmas town, where the residents are forced to be 'nice' to each other at all times no matter how they feel, as they are constantly being watched/monitored/listened to. They punish any residents who make it on the naughty list, where they are taken into a bag and never heard from again.

--We later learn they are being sent to a prison to be kept under watch by the charcoal monster, Sootfang. And here's where my key criticism comes into play:

When Jack & Sally eventually make it to the cave they are trapped in, near the ending of the book, they find the place...completely bland, where everything is painted white and there is nothing there but the prisoners. They explain that the bleakness is the 'point' of the prison, to lower the Christmas spirit of the elves/creatures in there, but this just seems like...a missed opportunity to me..? Considering that -

(i.e. in the Beauty & the Beast Twisted Tale, Belle is imprisoned at some point and finds other prisoners who are being physically beaten/tortured and brutally tested on. If something like THAT can make it into the Twisted Tale Series, then I think there could've been a much bigger punishment for the 'Naughty' prisoners..?)

I feel like there wasn't much 'Twisted' or dark content in this book like there are in others of this Series. Not a single swear-word they could've slipped in. Now, before this released, I and other fans were speculating that Krampus was going to be part of the 'dark' take of this story, physically punishing the bad children and serving as the antagonist. And, honestly, he could've easily replaced Mr. Jingles in here - enforcing their expectations of the children onto their own people, and getting carried away with it. I don't know if Mari wasn't allowed to use Krampus or something -- but I think, as a known Christmas legend, he would've fit perfectly into this role, and introduced some true 'twisted' physical punishments of these people..!

(Abigail could've gotten off waaaaay worse than a crack in her leg...just think of the twisted opportunities!)

Another thing that took me out of the story was how quickly Sootfang's true character is revealed and how he immediately becomes an ally to Jack & Sally. He has very little time to serve as an actual threat to the prisoners + our protagonists, and instead he's offered an immediate redemption and shelter in Halloween Town. Mr. Jingles' ending comes pretty quickly, too, as their revolt is Sally climbing to a tree and encouraging the Christmas Town residents to free themselves. I just feel like all of this...Jack & Sally's exploration of the prison, finding some difficulty in freeing the prisoners + fighting Sootfang, bringing Mr. Jingles out of power...could've been way more detailed and twisted than it was. This is where I think an extra 100 pages could've brought us more to this conflict.

Otherwise, the story was delightful, and I will go into an explanation as to why below:

Jack X Sally

Alright. Yes. Here we go.

I have both positive and negative criticism here - but mostly good things, as this book gives us more scenes and time spent between Jack Skellington and Sally as they go on an adventure to Christmas Town together. Their friendship + chemistry develops more, they share WAY more conversations, and there is some implied mutual crushing in here.

Let me get some of my issues out of the way here first - Sally's characterization in here is quite...different, and therefore makes her interactions with Jack a little different, too. She doesn't appear to be as shy in here as we see in the movie, where Sally struggles to be around him for very long without hiding or running away from him. In here, she apparently gets super comfortable enough to start joking with Jack right away, saying things like "What makes you think I think highly of you, Jack Skellington?", etc. etc.

Now, see, I wouldn't have a problem with this if the book establishes that Jack and Sally are already good friends and have some history together. But this is kind of cancelled out when Sally meets Abigail in Christmas Town, who she says is her "very first friend". And not Jack Skellington? Who she shared a deeply personal talk and joked around with? It just doesn't seem in-character to me that Sally would be so open with someone without already knowing and feeling comfortable enough around them. This would make a lot of sense with Jack, if the book just...treated them as prior friends before they adventure out to Christmas Town together. I don't see her being this flirtatious and jokey with someone she doesn't know very well. It makes this interaction feel a little OOC to me.

I've made a post early comparing a certain line in the book to the movie, where Sally initially denies any feelings for Jack and insists she doesn't want to be with him when Abigail brings it up. Yes, she's lying to Abigail because Jack is within earshot and in the conversation she confesses she think she's in love with him, but I should reiterate that I've always seen Sally as a dreamer and a romantic, who sings about her feelings for Jack and picks forget-me-nots to see if he loves her back. She's come to terms with her love for him by the point of the movie, so for her initial reaction to be a STRONG denial of feelings for him reads a bit OOC to me. I think she would be shy about it, but not something she'd deny right away, because Jack is arguably a big part of her daydreaming and the driving force behind some of her actions. She yearns for him to reciprocate her feelings! But this is probably just a personal nitpick of mine.

So, with that out of the way, the rest of their interactions are wonderful to read through, they clearly progress more in their relationship and get comfortable with each other. The joking and flirting makes more sense as time goes on, where they share an equal liking for each other and bond over doing things in Christmas Town. I LOVED the scenes in the vents, the chimney, the eggnog quicksand, where they are forced to be close together and Jack cares for Sally and vice versa. I just love reading them adventuring and spending so much time together, as they clearly get along so well and the fact that they both understand what they're going through and could use something new in their lives (to find each other through it) is just the cherry on top of it all.

I would definitely re-read this book just for these interactions again, we aren't gifted enough with stories where Jack and Sally legitimately spend more time together, as friends or a couple. So this was a wonderful gift to receive in that direction - I just wish Sally had her shyness and romantic nature in this book. I think the two of them coming to terms with their feelings for each other and getting together in the middle of their Christmas Town adventure would have probably been good for the story. I've always felt let down with the Disney Twisted Tales books treating romance as a secondary, last-minute thing...we can surely have Jack and Sally being together AND adventuring + taking down Mr. Jingles coexisting at the same time...

I will be releasing a brief post soon elaborating more about my qualms with Sally's characterization in here. So we'll put a hold on that for now.

Summary

Overall, I enjoyed my reading of Sally's Lament. As someone who has chosen to let go of my firm headcanons + beliefs in TNBC, I'm glad I can approach an AU like this with an open mind, knowing that things will be different and authors will make literary choices that I don't agree with. This book just misses the mark on writing Sally true to her character in the movie.

But the story was a fun read and I am just glad to see Jack and Sally together for a full adventure for once, instead of favoring one or the other. Just as I was happy to see them married and being royalty in LLTPQ. Jack was the focus for video games and the movie - and Sally for recent books and comic books, but we've finally gotten something that combines them together, and it's such a wonderful thing that I wonder why most media chooses not to do it.

Ultimately, I recommend reading this if you're looking for exactly what I described above - to read Jack and Sally on an adventure together, and if you don't mind her being different from how you saw her in the movie. I don't hate this book by any means, I enjoyed my read and what it offered to me, but I do wish Sally's Lament had been longer, had a better climax + resolution, and that the lead was written as the shy, romantic dreamer that she is instead of a default Disney Princess.

What did you guys think of the book? Feel free to tell me in my Inbox, or in a reblog/reply below!

[imagineanime2022]

What Are You Afraid Of?

Shaw X Fem!Reader

Word Count: 1446

A/N: This was not requested but I really wanted to write this, also if says fem at the top but I'm not sure that there is anything that is inherently female about the reader so do with that what you will.

You and Shaw had been friends for years, you had met on the first day of Uni and hit it off, you were definitely closer than friends would normally be and your friends definitely noticed that was where the problem started.

It was at lunch one day you were sending a quick text to Shaw to tell him that you had gotten to lunch okay, he was weirdly adamant about it. “You texting skater boy again?” Jess, your friend, asked. “Huh?” You asked. “Shaw.” Hannah supplied. “Oh yeah, he just wanted to make sure that I got here okay.” You answered. “How did he know you were coming?” She asked. “We were at his last night gaming, I ended up staying.” You answered. “Wait, you stayed at his place?” Jess asked. “Yes.” You answered, the conversation was interrupted by the waiter coming over to take out orders, you thought that it was over but the moment that the waiter walked away, your friends pulled your attention back to them. “You're wearing different clothes, so you have clothes at his place?” Jess asked. “Just from staying there a few times.” You answered. “Has he stayed at your place?” Hannah asked. “Yes.” You answered. “But you're not together?” Jess asked. “No. We’re friends.” You answered. “Yeah friends.” She nodded. You looked at her and waited, you knew that something was coming. “What Jess?” You prompted when you finally got sick of the silence. “I’m just saying, you stay at each others houses, you go on dates-” “We play games together.” You corrected. “And he makes sure that you're okay all the time. Have you ever noticed that if you need anything he’s the first person to offer you help?” She explained. “He’s just being helpful.” You argued. “He doesn’t help anyone. Shaw hates helping anyone who isn’t you.” Hannah said. “Can we talk about something else?” You asked.

You sighed as you opened the door to your apartment, kicked off your shoes and walked towards the living room where you sat on the sofa, your eyes catching on the hoodie that Shaw had left there the last time that he had been around, you meant to take it back to him yesterday. Your phone rang a few minutes after and you didn’t even have to look at it to know who it was “Hello?” You asked. “Are you home?” Shaw asked. “Yeah, why?” You asked. “Just making sure… What’s wrong with you?” He asked. “Huh?” You grunted. “You sound tired.” He answered. “Gee thanks.” You mumbled as you shuffled so that you were laying across the couch. “Did something happen?” He took on a concerned tone as he seemed to be moving around. “No nothing, are you out?” You asked. “Hm oh yeah, just running a few errands.” He answered. “Oh, why don’t you call me when you get home then, we can talk then.” You answered, you could hear that he was going to say something else but you hung up before he could say anything else.

Jess and Hannah had started you thinking about everything that had been happening with Shaw, as it stood you thought that you were happy with the friendship but the truth is, you liked Shaw a lot more than that. You had never had anything like this before and there had never been a relationship built on love in your life that had been right. Your father had left when you were young and while you were sure that your Mum loved you she was never very good at it and when you turned 18 she became more focused on finding a boyfriend for herself, which was probably the reason that you found yourself in Uni in the first place. Either way the events in your life made it hard to trust anyone who claimed to love you. This lead back to Shaw, the fear that travelled through you at even the thought of someone loving you was indescribable. You didn’t want this to ruin what you had, you knew that you needed to get yourself together before you had to see him again, because after all of this he might not even think of you that way.

You don’t even remember falling asleep, but you were woken up by knocking at your door, you looked at the clock, 19:30. You walked to the door and opened it ���There she is.” Shaw smirked as he leaned forward on the door frame, his eyes travelling over you before stopping on your face. “Have you been crying?” “No.” You answered frowning as you touched your face, you don’t remember crying and by now your face is dry but if he had asked it must have looked like you had been. “What’s going on with you?” He asked. “Nothing.” You answered. “Well I know that’s not true because you haven’t invited me in yet.” He smirked, you stepped to the side allowing him into the house, it was then that you realised the bag in his hands, your favourite take out place. “You bought food?” You asked. “Well I don’t intend on leaving until you tell me what’s going on.” He shrugged. “Nothing is going on!” You answered a little more defensively. “Uh huh.” He grunted as he looked through your cupboards grabbing plates and cups and putting them on the table. “What the hell is your problem?” You asked. “There’s nothing wrong with me, there is however something wrong with you.” He answered as he finally turned to look at you, no hint of a smile or smirk, no cocky tone or sarcasm. “I don’t know what to tell you…” You answered softly, he slowly moved towards you, closing the distance. “Tell me the truth.” He said softly, taking your face in his hands, moving it until your eyes connected. “You wouldn’t be saying that if you knew what the truth was.” You could feel the tears welling up in your eyes, there was nowhere to go, no way to change the subject, you had to approach it. “Come on, you have to tell me what you're so afraid of.” He pleaded. “I can only protect you from it.” “That’s the problem!” Your hands lifted into the air as you pulled away now pacing the living room “I shouldn’t be afraid of this, I shouldn’t need protection from this!” “From what?” Shaw asked, his voice soft almost as afraid of scaring you out of talking. “Loving you!” You answered, in all honesty saying it out loud made you feel better but the silence that followed made you stop dead in your tracks. “See I knew this would happen, everytime love is involved it ruins everything. Just forget that I said anyth-” as you turned you came face to face with Shaw. “Shut up.” He ordered softly before pressing his lips to yours, pressed forward so hard that you almost stumbled. He was quick to wrap his arm around your waist pulling you into his chest, every part of him was touching you and you didn’t know what to do with your hands. “What are you doing with your hands?” He asked, he only pulled away enough to speak. “I don’t know. Where am I allowed to put them?” You asked, he took your wrists in his hands before pressing them to his chest before moving them up to his shoulders. “You can put them wherever you want.” He said softly “I don’t mind.” “S-stop!” You ordered, forcing yourself to breathe as he chuckled. “Look at me for a second.” He said softly. “I might collapse.” You mumbled, he didn’t even take a second to breath as he lifted you sitting on the sofa settling you to straddle his waist. “This isn’t better.” “Focus.” He ordered, causing you to look back at him “you don’t need protection from this, I promise that I have no intention of hurting you.” “I don’t think anyone ever did.” You answered, you jumped as you felt a small static shock through your waist where his hands rested. “Give me a chance.” He pleaded. “Can we go slow?” You asked. “How slow because that was a pretty good kiss and half your clothes are in your wardrobe.” He smirked. “Shaw!” You whined and he smirked, leaning forward and pressing another kiss to your lips, this one shorter, softer, more loving. “We can go as slow as you want.” He answered. “Thank you.” You mumbled. “Pleasures all mine. Come on their food to eat and then movies to watch.” He squeezed your waist as you stood both heading to the kitchen to eat the food that he’d bought for you both.

Request Here!!

[confused-mc]

MLQC Headcannons

MLQC BOYS AS CATS

I think this has been done before... But I love this trope so much it hurts.

Masterlist

♫︎ Kiro:

Kiro is definitely a long haired cat. One can envision him as a ginger and white kitty. His beautifully wide, innocent blue eyes are rare and enchanting.

There's only this odd occasion when they look almost... Yellow... In some lights. That's probably just the morning sun, right, little kitty?

Indeed, Kitty Cat Kiro has simply adorable, poofy cheeks, and a long curving grin when he's sleepy. He gets floofy, bed-head hair when he's been sprawled over you.

His head will lie in the crux of your neck, as his pink toe beans extend down to your hips, completely laid out.

His favourite way to bother you for treats is giving you a kiss on the fingers until you rub his ruff to perfection, buttering you up like a sneaky liar. Then, with a good long, but, most importantly, affectionate "MEROWW", he trots to the treats cupboard almost as if the two actions were completely unrelated

As if you just hadn't been led through the house with his beautifully long, volumeous tail raised behind him, as if unknowning of your destination.

And he will do this again.

You could never resist someone so completely adorable, to your other cats' distain.

Unfortunately, he will certainly take advantage of this, and so your treats bills will rise.

His favourite treats would be those catnip kibble bites. He'd go absolutely feral to find them.

- Kiro with other cats

Would he get jealous?

YES - AND HE WILL BE CLINGY ABOUT IT

If you say hello to another new cat and he's lying in your arms, he will wriggle his head until it's resting in your palm and your other hand is stroking his long floofy belly. It seems almost like odd timing, until you realise that saying "good baby, good little boy" is fine, until you say "good baby, hello little Lucien" and then it's wriggles and affectionate eye contact galore. He will distract you with his wiles - and don't you forget it.

Jealousy is in neediness when you first get in. The first time you ignore him in pressing toilet issues, he was slinking around the room unhappily until you pick him up and comfort him yourself. He needed you to bridge the gap.

The other main issue to arise Kiro's very pleasant and amiable personality is Cat-Shaw would come and sneak his food away. That would be the absolute FIRST time you'd see your precious little bean snark, snarl and shine his sharp little claws in his entire life.

It almost scared you, how suddenly volatile he was with food when another cat dared sniff his nose into Kitty Kiro's food. In part, a little part wanted of Kiro to see how tough he was at protecting his food at a ruffian's declaration of war.

Kiro's favourite place to be stroked was his belly when he splays himself on yourself or his favourite place on the rug. His head-to back of the neck comes in second, especially when you add in a little chin stroke.

He's the first one around your legs, demanding cuddle after cuddle.

He will come and bother you if he's under a whim, but will only glare at the cat who has your attention at that current point.

He will bother Victor, most likely, for brotherly fun. Victor will remain unimpressed, maybe an occasional bat or two. Victor is too composed to growl at well-meaning Kiro, and if cats could roll their eyes, Victor would at Kiro.

Kiro always thinks that Victor's food is the best. (It's the same, but Kiro has the idea that Victor always gets the best food).

Likely the highest on the hierarchy in terms of - first one to come for food, and most likely the last to leave - he will get first dibs - but more because Victor is snooty and will eat separately, and no one has a big deal for food in comparison. Gavin is pleased to eat and will bristle if anyone comes near.

In fighting and male cat dominance, he's probably third - above Gavin who doesn't like to fight exceedingly so *(more than that later), but will likely pout at trying to fight with Lucien and Victor. Shaw is an outlier.

Will try and blend with other cats as long as he gets cuddle time.

Is a big fan of walking around meowing, yowling, howling at night.

His favourite part is where you groan out "be quiet Kiro" just so he can do it all again about three minutes later.

He considers it successful when he gets a cuddle in the night, much to Lucien's dismay.

One time you made a viral post with Kiro's meowing at night. Someone compared it to a cat version of trying to sing, and ever since, you had Kiki demanding you make a ticktock account for him.

You almost accept... But don't on the account of having five cats and living alone would get you called crazy cat lady by all of your staff and you'll never live it down

One day, you'll cave.

Because secretly, you know Kiro was born to be beloved by all.

Kiro will not be collared. Try if you dare and he will find a way to squirm it off.

༄ Gavin:

He is a tabby cat, and definitely a short haired cat!

He's a bit more streamlined (*cough*aka not so greedy *cough*), and will enjoy the high cat post the most for look-outs and observation out of your window. He will lazily sit on the platform, but will never look in the 'scoop' cat bed that came attached to the cat tower that he deems dubiously unsafe.

He's probably the most consistently playful besides Shaw, who is more sporadic and flighty*(also more on that later).

He will adore the catnip fishes, or leaves on strings, or brightly coloured feathered toys that he will bat across the floor when feeling active. Gavin feels the best Cat when he gets you to play with him voluntarily, because it means you love him.

Also regarding playing, when he was first in your house, he made you have to replace the curtains. He tried to climb up them so much as if he was trying to learn how to fly. (*Sighs* sadly, - thankfully - that never came true)

Beautiful yellow eyes and seem almost molten gold in the sun.

He's very territorial, but there are certain areas he *tolerates* others being in, like Kiro. but he won't like Victor or Shaw being on his windowsill or tower. (not that Victor would deign get onto a rickety tower and embrass a cat of his status with that display).

Gavin won't go near Lucien if he can. Gavin just never feels okay with him around, and will eye him from the spot on your sofa like a knight eyeing an unsafe creature lurking in the moat.

Gavin can be seen having spats with Shaw, and you have to break them up sometimes if Shaw pursues Gavin. Sometimes it's hard to know exactly what starts them hissing, but it's usually when Shaw ignores the warning signs if Gavin flicks his tail too lightly.

Other than that, the cats respect him on the cat heirachy, unless Shaw feels like being a tempest and pisses Gavin off. Gavin believes he is ranked higher than Kiro in the heirachy, and in a knuckle-down fight, Lucien and Victor won't come away unscathed... But Gavin dislikes fighting when you're around and so it doesn't particularly happen.

If Gavin is pissed, he will go to his windowsill and lash his tail, the line of fur down his back flared, staring out as if his eyes could narrow and fry the ginko leaves on the path.

His collar has a ginko leaf on it. He wears it only out of respect for you. Otherwise, he'd kick it to the curb and piss on it on principle.

His affection is when you've had dinner, Kiro is kipping in his favourite, tawny coloured basket by the TV he loves watching, and the seat beside you is empty. He will be the silent, keep you company without needing strokes (though strokes are more than welcome and will send his eyes blinking slowly and softly to sleep). He likes you being beside him, keeping each other company, and finds true comfort in that routine.

One of his favourite places to stroke is from the head, all along his back when he's stretching from or before a nap. He especially likes it again when he's curled up beside you in a little 'O' shape. Not a massive tummy stroker, maybe once in a blue moon, but he'll quickly get down if it's too much and meander elsewhere until he'll come back and get peeved when he sees that Lucien's taken his place.

Will come for food because it's routine and gets moderately hungry, but will likely leave some round the edges. He has senstive whiskers so he has a plate so his whiskers don't touch the sides

He will enjoy picking at biscuits when none of the others are bothering him.

His favourite treats are run of the mill, easy going, fish ones, maybe turkey

He is the quietest if he's not huffing and hissing at Shaw who's provoking him

He had a history of unhappiness before coming to you, often fighting and having chunks of fur missing. You feel lucky to have him so much happier where you are - even if he would prefer to have you all to himself.

He loves being outside, and will find him the most active if he's allowed to be let out.

Probably won't be a hunter that you see his 'presents', but mostly will hunt when you don't know about it.

Gavin has a tendency to fight with new cats on the street and you often have to scold him on it, hold a salt-water soaked cotton pad to his eyes or chin.

He's the only one who Victor almost respects, and will passively co-exist with.

𖠌 Victor:

Can envisioned as a slim, black cat with a pointy, regal face

When you first thought of cats when you were younger, the stereotype of a snooty cat seemed actually impossible to think of in real life.

Victor made the magic happen.

He is *ridiculously* picky with food, of course. When you first had him, you couldn't trust it when you had finally found some he would eat.

Of course, it would be the ones that equated £1 a tin

For a cat family of five, that is A LOT of MONEY.

A tin will stretch out for four (per meal).

You are cashing out over £3 per day, thanks to Victor's snooty little nose.

(you tried only having Victor on the food, but Kiro immediately made this impossible

Kiro would howl, literally howl, if kept from Victor and his food. It drove you insane. Thankfully, as your job started to pick up, you had the budget for EXTREMELY FUSSY VICTOR

Victor will demand high-rate treats, and has a nose for taste. The amount of times you can see Victor raise his nose at a dozen different treats made you tear your hair out with stress (having treats was in large, the best way to make any of your cats take medication. Victor and Shaw would scar your arms if you forced any sort of thing in them). You took six different types of treats - made *two* visits to the supermarket, and finally broke by buying some cream yogurt cat thing that Willow's mum suggested out of pity.

It worked. The only cat in existence to delight in truly expensive cat-treat yogurt. It hurt your heart but you almost cried in relief when you could promise the vet that they didn't need to get another vet in to do an injection - that pills would be fine.

Your whole office cheered when your cat problem resolved. You had been worried sick about there being a problem with your cat being fatally unimpressed with treats as a concept.

Victor would only explicitly enjoy attention when you would go up to him, and allow him to assess whether he wanted strokes.

He would peer out of his black cocoon of fur, sniff your fingers - as if checking where you'd been - and only allow you to pet him if they didn't smell of other cats. He would wipe away a weird soapy smell with his glands, and have the quietest purr arrested from him like a significantly hard sell.

He liked the hard, wooden shelf in your bedroom (that you had installed in the middle of your wall above your TV rack) , and he's aloof and watches over you with an indifference that sometimes he's barely noticeable - just a black furry blob on a cream blanket. He secretly places himself around you in your house discreetly, and enjoys sitting on your kitchen table (or when delicately, pacifyingly placed in an accessible basket on the top of a unit in your kitchen) because hygiene matters, even if Victor has the most unimpressed look in eyes when he's moved by you.

Kiro will walk in when you're cooking something, meow until you won't give him anything, and then slink out with an envious look in his eyes when he sees Victor watching dispassionately from his perch up on the shelf.

Shaw can and will hide under the table, trap you with a paw round your ankle, making you drop whatever tasty tidbit you have, only to leave it if it doesn't contain meat.

Most often, Shaw doesn't recieve any good tidbids and really, it's about catching your foot for funsies - well, until he's shut out of the kitchen. Victor prefers it when he can watch you cook without Kiro or Shaw stealing your concentration.

Victor will always snootily expect pieces from cooking, and will certainly glare if there is nothing placed upon his basket edge to appease him.

Sometimes he leaves it, if it doesn't appeal to him

He still expects it anyway.

After all, what are owners for if not giving their cats top quality food and treats?

Victor doesn't necessarily *need* cuddles, the first time you put him on your lap he gets off immediately. You quickly find out that he will only come to you when he feels like it, and picking him up when he's not happy can cause your arm to become a colinder - full of holes

He is better sitting on the tops of your sofa, him and Gavin can get on with a respectable distance between them, I. E Gavin beside you on the sofa, and Victor on the back, Gavin on your bed, and Victor on his perch.

When Victor finally warms up - it has taken at least 1 1/2 years - he may finally sit on you when you've become ill. Full of flu and cold, and Lucien is off eating ect, Victor will lay on your chest, and purr.

It brings tears to your eyes, to think it had taken so long for Victor to willingly come to you. You had given up hope that he'd want to actually accept you like this. He'd always seemed to detached, but now, when you needed the most comfort, Victor was there.

Victor will only repeat his performance when he feels like you need it most. He will accept strokes, and light touch strokes are more encouraged. His eyes will close when you stroke mainly his head and neck. He won't want his stomach stoked, and will growl a bit huffily if you do.

In terms of heirachy, he is aloof and battles Lucien for Top Cat in disputes. If they are at a stand off, Victor will certainly keep his eyes narrowed at Lucien, and lash his tail like summoning the wrath of a displeased CEO. His growl is low, and will make even you feel uneasy.

The best way to difuse the situation is lure Lucien away with attention - which is usually what cat Lucien most desires, when showing favour of him in front of Victor.

Victor will get pissy if you 'seem' to favour Lucien or others over him - especially if he is sending you a 'come hither' look and will slink away in a sulk if this happens.

For example, if you decide you need to go elsewhere before Victor's eyes have closed on a nice stroking pattern, he sours with an unhappy lash of his tail, and will even get off whatever place he's in. This can include you stroking him in the kitchen whilst something is cooking and suddenly it will start to burn and you need to leave him -

Victor cannot forgive your inability to cook and multi-task, humans should not be dummies and bother stroking him if they cannot commit to it.

Very aloof to strangers. Will keep to the perch in your room and will likely glare at them unwelcomingly if they near him.

☕︎ Lucien:

Would most likely be a British short hair cat, and might have white, or very pale eyes. (there are cats like this!)

He loves sun traps the most. He will follow the sun across the day, sleeping in the spots that give him the best sun rays, even if it upsets the no-man's-land rug area.

He's a surreptitious attention seeker, and highly attune to your emotions. If you're happy, if you're upset, he's there in the room for when you need him. The back of your sofa, or your space on the sofa often calls to him. He likes to often exchange places with Victor when sleeping. You can't figure out quite why, but it keeps happening.

He prefers night cuddles, slinking into your room with a paw-tap during the night to open your door, and settling at the end of your bed - or against you if you look especially adorable.

He enjoys being on your pillows during the day, and you find yourself drawing counter measures against the ongoing battle of keeping his fur off your pillow cases. You tried pulling up an extra blanket, over them, Lucien will pull it off. You tried tempting him with a rectangle of blanket, he slept on your pillows and then, finally, you resign to allowing him one side of your pillows during the day and turning them to 'your' side at night.

When you finally got in that habit, Lucien had suddenly decided that your bed wasn't comfy as it was, and wanted to sleep on your dining room chair instead.

You sometimes thought he was noseblind, because of how lackluster he was about food. He never seemed to be fussed and it worried you. With him, you had tried senstive allogen diets, and the like, but ultimately had to cave into Victor's eating habits.

Lucien does prefer to nibble on dry cat biscuits, and forgets to think that cat treats are... Well... Treats.

He's the most thirsty (hehe) out of all of them. Will drink the most.

NOSE BOOPS. He is a NOSE BOOPER. HE WILL TOTALLY DO NOSE BOOPS. HE DOESN'T EVEN MIND YOU RUNNING YOUR FINGER LIGHTLY DOWN HIS soft itty bitty NOSE.

He is also be a definite face-wiper. He will find ways to scent your face, chin, nose, cheeks, and will go on his back legs to do this, resting his top paws on your thigh as he reaches out . He will face wipe and chin wipe and will enjoy it greatly when you indulge him in this, especially if you pick him up and rock him gently in your arms.

(He makes his claim and he will reassert this as soon as another cat tries and replace their scent on your fingers. Lucien is basically peeing all over you, just by scent glands instead :D )

it's unnoticeable - a sly unimpressive trait you would probably never have noticed until you suddenly put it together one day as he saunters away after *needing* - demanding - dropping himself right where your computer was going to be on your lap. This would be after Victor had left your lap twenty minutes earlier.

Lucien will greet you by simply being in the same room as you, and will use social conventions such as litter trays, cat food and water by spending time with you if other cats around. He takes this time to see exactly which of the others are in the room with you and whether there is space for him to lie on the arm of the sofa after Kiro's moseyed off after his greeting cuddle.

He's not particularly bothered by cat toys, and will enjoy the kitchen window sill (even though you try and keep cats off kitchen surfaces) he will sit on the kitchen windowsill after walking on the worktop. You can NEVER catch him in the act, and you almost believe he has mastered the jump from the window sill to the floor...

Will be polite to visitors, and most women instantly fall in love with him.

You will have to fight them to keep him in your arms, and Lucien will be pleased with all the attention - mostly because it gets you to fuss him extensively in reaction. But you can definitely see that he's distant to others in a way you can't put your finger on. And secretly, you're glad you are the only one to get to see Lucien completely relaxed.

☔︎ Shaw:

A blue (grey) shorthair (ha ha - get the blue hair reference, right XD) with big chubby cheeks and a slightly pissy resting-face with sharp amber eyes. His tail is quite a good indicator of his mood. Biggest grump, rivaling Victor.

Most mercurial, in terms of affection. He's a bit standoffish and won't often want to be moved once he's sat somewhere.

If he's in your seat, tough.

He will growl and leave in a huff if you gather enough courage to move him off. If he's really mad, he might swipe. The time he actually drew blood the other cats will instantly get upset with him for this, even if you couldn't discern it. Lucien hangs around you like afterwards that you mistook for purely for affection (he is politely staring daggers at Shaw). Victor also makes sure to give you a cuddle in bed to make sure you're not being a dummy.

Attention seeking but not attention wanting - will plop himself on your chest, or on your lap and expect you to sit there. He will not require excessive petting and if you find that you pet him too much his tail will lash and/or will whip you in the face. By accident... You think. He will turn and bite, growl lightly if you don't stop and respect his signals. But he likes sitting on your lap on his terms. He will sit on the arm of the sofa too if your lap is busy.

He'll have his favourite grey and cream basket, and it will be one with a hood, on top of a cabinet.

You didn't want it to be on top of a cabinet, but once you realised he was only sitting in it when Gavin was within paw batting reach, a tactical move was wise.

Is definitely a bit of a food hog (he may nose at other cat bowls if he's bored), and will like beef or pork treats.

He can also be a bit odd and want other cat's treats, because suddenly he's bored of what he has in comparison (even though he *does* like his stuff by himself).

If there's a plate or dish on the side, he will be the one to go up there and lick at it. Kiro will definitely be tempted if he sees Shaw doing it and will go up after him.

Shaw will not tolerate any training. Kiro and Gavin out of them all are the most likely out of all of them to enjoy mental stimulation and food rewards. (Eventually when you make an account for Kiro, your journey for teaching cats tricks became a massive trend!!)

He will be the worst in complaining if taken to the vets. YOWLING. and exceedingly grumpy YOWLING. He will turn his back on you, and will lock his teeth around your fingers if you try to touch him. He will sulk for a whole day when you get home.

He's also had a bad history, a bit like Gavin's, and he had come to you by chance because he was being thrown out by a neighbour for his personality. You knew four cats were already a handful... But they all got along well! What could be worse than Victor when he refuses his medicine?

Shaw. Shaw is a cat you can see that if you gave him up, no one might give him a chance.

But he would have moments. Moments, that when you had learned his personality after two years of consistency and good food, he shone through.

That in the night, he would lie on your rug, stretch out wide and you can see his legs kicking in his sleep.

That the shark soft toy (which had been an enthusiastic end-of-a-trend cat toy from Kiki) that no other cat bothered to deign to set a foot near, Shaw would curl up beside it and nestle his head in the curve of its fin.

You had just been about to donate it to your prop cupboard, until you realise you hadn't seen Shaw all day because he'd been curled up beside Sharky.

That he made instinctive murping noises when certain songs came on, and you almost felt like he was talking to you.

He loved watching a record player you had, watching the spinning record play. (Yes, he had tried to jump on it and knock the arm of the record player off. Thankfully it wasn't ruined).

That sometimes, when Gavin and Shaw chased each other, you almost felt like they were brothers.

Until Shaw ruined it and bats at Gavin after Gavin's had enough.

Shaw also has the attention span on a knat so keeping him entertained before he's more entertained with walking away and you trying to fling a toy at him is a delicate balance

He will occasionally bat around a [random item] he finds, like a hairband, a guitar pick, a hairclip, a credit card (yes, that's what happens when you leave your credit card on the table, much to your dismay.)

He likes boxes. Will sit in them and knaw the edges if you keep them. He also spits out fur balls in the most random places, other than Kiro of course! Most lazy with self grooming. If he gets in a fight, cleaning his scratches will be a mandatory thing.

He is also trouble with electric things. He will pee by the TV and you are sure he is the one who caused your game system to malfunction by peeing on it. You can never be sure... But you suspect it's him.

Shaw doesn't really interact with other cats (obviously apart from Gavin!). He finds them boring and a waste of time.

He's good at doing his business outside, but will kick out the litter in the tray because... Well he's a bit messy and has an attitude.

There's no schedule to this cat, and if he was an outdoors cat, he would be out a lot.

Unfortunately, he would bring presents and will leave them for you to find in your house.

Most of the time, Lucien will lead you to them with a sympathetic look in his eye.

One time, Shaw left a live mouse in your house and you had only realised this once you saw mouse poo in Shaw's basket and a little mouse in a small hole in the bedding.

You couldn't say you were upset, considering the little critter was alive

Shaw was sitting on the sofa looking at it as if it hadn't just turned up in his basket.

Once again, you couldn't be sure... But... Shaw was the only one who seemed to hunt and bring things back the most.

Shaw is a cat that definitely upset the balance of the lot, and whilst you knew that he may be better as a lone cat, you couldn't let go of him. When someone joined your tribe, it was a commitment for the rest of their lives. 💖 He was content, as much as Shaw cat could be, and you could only hope that was enough, being the best owner you could be. 🐱

Miscellaneous:

Kiro and Shaw are the most clutsy cats. Lucien and Victor are cats who move with precise motion. Shaw will only be clutsy because he doesn't care what he knocks off. Kiro is unintentionally clutsy and forgets his tail is floofy so knocks things over when he's moving around (his tail dragging an ornament down with him from a window sill or shelf, or knocking over glasses of water you have on the beside table.) Shaw will do this without shame. Gavin is only clutsy when he's in the middle of chasing a toy and then nothing can be stopped if he's on a toy-rampage zoomie.

Lucien will have a butterfly pendant collar, in purple, Gavin's blue, Victor's red with a circular tag, Shaw would have a silver lightning bolt, with a grey and blue collar - at least, for the first hour he kept it on.

###

Hello! All done... I have written this over several instalments and it was so fun. I think all of their personalities are incorporated in cat behaviour haha! Shaw's much easier to translate to cat... I wonder if that's saying anything.

Who would be an ideal cat companion to you? :D

It makes sense to say, some cats are better without others around! Cats I feel who are like Shaw would be a bit more affectionate and a little less grumpy around the edges if he didn't have other cats around!

[silverseaming]

Dearest Aunt Winifred, It seems I have hardly a spare minute to write these days, but I shall always find the time to put down a few lines for you! I do so love hearing all your news from dear old Rook’s Rest, and should hate to keep you waiting for my own. Nearly all of the harvest has been gathered in now, just the last of the hay left to dry in the fields. The crop came good this year, thankfully — though I should hope so, when my husband has been working from dawn to dusk these last weeks! While they were down in Brook’s Field I went out with luncheon each day, and brought Daisy with me. I’ve never known a child with such a need to be out-of-doors! I suppose it’s only natural at that age, though I don’t remember being so eager to grub around in the soil when I was young. Perhaps you recall differently?

I could fill a whole letter with childhood remembrances, but I will spare you those in favour of recounting some recent happenings. Knowing Kit’s distaste for the town, you can well imagine my surprise when last week he had the buggy all hitched up for an outing! He insisted we send Daisy over to Mrs Miller, and was most secretive about his purpose the whole journey. I tried to coax it out of him, but he simply wouldn’t tell. Well, when we finally arrived he brought me to Christie & Son’s Furniture Emporium! It is a new business that has just opened last month, and a real fine one at that. Every day I went to Pearson’s for groceries since it opened I peered through the window, but never did I think I would step foot inside! Everything on offer was absolutely exquisite, all silks and polished wood. I convinced that we couldn’t afford a thing, but Kit insisted I need not worry about all that, and we did have a very good harvest indeed. No other woman must have such an indulgent husband, as he agreed with all my choices and let me bring home a lovely few pieces.

The work was completed in about a week, and I feel like a queen in my palace! This little farmhouse has become so dear to my heart, and is all the sweeter for its redecoration. Kit says he now has the prettiest home and prettiest wife in Brindleton, but he’s a terrible flatterer! I have since tried to elicit his motivations in all of this, but have got no better answer than ‘Is my wife not meant to have nice things?’. I shall let him keep his secrets. I do hope that all has been as good at Rook’s Rest as it has here. As always my most affectionate love to all of you! You are always in my thoughts, and I cannot wait for the day we can make the journey out to introduce you to Daisy. Your Loving, Meg

[evolimagines]

hello!! so good to see mlqc writers 😭

could i ask for gavin x reader where gavin came back from a mission and just wanted to spoil her rotten. he had missed her so much (just like she missed him) and he’s just so sweet

A/N: i went to answer this and then i had to go to the store and when i came back my laptop crashed so. forgive me if this isn't very detailed i apologize !

Gavin Spoiling His S/O

Listen. He's had such a long day, days really with how long he'd been gone, and he just wants to spend the rest of his time with you until the next mission rolls around ! So as such the minute he he sees you he's wrapping his arms around you and spinning you around.

Trying to make dinner??? Don't even worry about it, he'll either make it himself or order food he doesn't want you to lift a finger ! He'll clean up and everything too he's got all the hard work handled!

I imagine this to be pretty late at night so you're probably not going anywhere just yet but if you wanna take a little walk around he won't say no ! He's pulling you so closely to him and making sure you stay nice and warm !

If you do decide to stay in he's getting everything ready to relax with you, picking out your favorite movie, snacks, whatever you want he's already got it in hand, he's that prepared!

Will not leave your side whatsoever, he stays close giving you lots o hugs and cuddles and kisses ! He missed you a lot while he was gone and he needs to show you all the affection that built up while he was away ! Of course only you see this side of him but that's fine its yours and Gavin's little secret <3

[thedummysdummy]

The Extent of the Search

“I’ve got the day off today since we finished editing last night. I thought I’d do some of the deep cleaning that has been piling up.” The girl took a bite of her toast and made eye contact with Victor over the video call, who finished his sip of coffee and nodded. “But you know your wife deserves a reward for working on her day off!” 

Victor chuckled and set down his cup. “Just don’t get halfway through a project and lose interest so the house is a bigger mess than when you started. If a certain dummy can accomplish that, I believe a nice meal could be in order when I get home tonight.” 

His words were met with a joyful cheer as the girl jumped up and rushed around the table to wrap her arms around Victor’s shoulders. “Absolutely! You know I am good at finishing projects!! A certain someone else has drilled that into me.” She giggled and glanced at the clock behind him. “You better get on the road, Mr. CEO. Don’t forget your lunch or your wife will be very upset!!”

Victor rolled his eyes in a good-natured way and picked up his briefcase. “You just enjoy using your new title, don’t you? I suppose it does have a certain ring to it. Your husband will see you after work.” He blew the girl a kiss and the screen went dark, leaving her standing in the middle of the kitchen and staring at the blank screen. 

Did she have alternative motives for offering to clean out the dark corners of Victor’s house? Oh, absolutely. How better to get to know the one you love than going through their things? And seeing his face after a period of separation and intense busyness left her with an ache she longed to soothe. With an entire day ahead of her, she decided to start with the kitchen. The breakfast dishes took little more than five minutes; as they stood drying in the rack, the girl pulled a stool over to the cabinets to remove all the dishes and scrub down the shelves. 

One by one she carefully removed the dishes and set them on the counter, pausing when her eyes fell on a certain cup in the very back corner of the highest shelf. She picked it up with something akin to reverence and held it up to the light, which refracted in a multitude of ways as the beams bounced off the repaired cracks. “I can’t believe he kept this,” she murmured and ran her fingers over the bumpy surface. They stopped at a bit of glue tinged pink and a shiver ran down her spine. 

She couldn’t bring herself to examine it any closer after that and set the cup on the counter with the rest of the dishes. Painful memories sloshed around with the warm water in the bucket she used to wipe away the gathered dust on the shelves, despite her best efforts to replace them with happy memories. Her hand went to her chest multiple times as if searching for a scar she knew no longer existed. 

Said cup was returned to its exact place and hidden away by the rest of the dishes; dishes which held, instead, the happy memories of meals lovingly prepared and enjoyed together. They hid away the broken cup and the girl couldn’t help finding meaning in such simplicity. 

The fridge, counters, and floors received a similar level of care before the girl nodded and declared the kitchen officially clean. Next came the dining room; every inch of the table was scrubbed until the surface glittered in the light. The chair cushions went in the wash, the chairs themselves were wiped down, and the floors were mopped. 

In a full cleaning-whirlwind by this point, the girl moved on to their bedroom. Truth be told, there wasn’t actually much cleaning to do, but she still washed the bedding, vacuumed every square inch of carpet, and dusted every surface. Inside the closet she began organizing Victor’s clothes. A soft smile spread over her features as she remembered times he’d worn each item. Suits and casual clothing alike each held a sweet memory, until she came to the last item on the rack. 

It was just a suit to an outsider; a suit which probably should have been thrown out due to the holes in the jacket. She withdrew her hand rapidly as her breath caught in her throat. It had obviously been cleaned very carefully, but nothing could remove the stain around the hole completely. The girl pushed it away and hurriedly slid his other clothes over it before hastily exiting the closet. This whole exercise wasn’t doing anything to fill the empty place in her heart…

So instead, she threw herself into scrubbing down the bathroom. As her hands cleared any signs of uncleanliness, her mind drifted. Where would Victor keep the happy things? And where hadn’t she done much exploring? No more holey jackets or broken cups…

Cups. The attic! She brightened and dumped the dirty water down the drain, tossed the rag in the hamper, and skittered to the hidden attic entrance. Excitement was already building as she climbed the stairs and flicked on the light to glance around. 

It was quite organized, as far as attics go; however, it definitely could use a good dusting. The girl started near the door and began tackling the shelves with her duster. They contained a multitude of books on many subjects; everything from grade school texts to business law books were represented. Near the back of the room in a cabinet, she found something far more interesting: journals. 

She almost reached out to grab one without thinking, but paused as her mind caught up to her hand. “I should ask Victor before I flip through those,” she murmured to herself as she pulled her phone out of her pocket and opened his contact. 

Hey husband, I found some old journals while cleaning the attic. Do you mind if I read them? 

His reply came surprisingly quickly. The girl didn’t even have time to put the phone back in her pocket before it buzzed. 

That’s fine.

He didn’t even have to think about it first! Warmth spread from the top of her head to the tips of her toes as his trust for her settled into her very bones. She pulled the journals and the box they were in from the cabinet and set it aside, momentarily distracted by the rest of the contents of the cabinet. 

The top shelf held a variety of trophies, all quite dusty but well-maintained. She removed them one at a time, removing the dust from their plates to read the award. 

“Academic Excellence” 

“Spelling Bee 1st Place” 

“Future Business Leaders of Loveland” 

Each one provided just a little insight into the young Victor’s rise to the top. The girl carefully dusted each one and replaced them on the shelf. Below the trophy shelf was a thin space where a single file folder rested. She slid it out and found it to be full of award certificates. Business competitions, academic honors, and even a handful of piano recital competition placements adorned the pages. 

This, too, she returned to its place after removing the dust of time. “And now, the main event!” she exclaimed, turning back to the box. She removed all the journals and organized them by date, amused yet unsurprised to find that they began probably the moment Victor learned to write. The first childish handwriting improved in leaps and bounds as she turned the pages and read about soccer games, outings with Mrs. Li, and the joys and frustrations of childhood. 

And then it came: The first mention of her. “I met a girl at the park today. My soccer ball knocked down her sandcastle. She began to cry. I’m going to bring her a pudding tomorrow to say sorry.” 

She didn’t know why she expected more depth from a small child, but the girl found herself wishing for more insight into his side of the experience. It was such a profound crossroads in their lives, yet neither knew it at the time. A long period passed as she stared at the simple words and relived the snatches of memory. 

Finally, she turned the page and searched for more mentions of herself. “I brought the pudding today. The girl was so childish as she wolfed it down without taking time to enjoy it.” “The girl keeps following me around the park. But I kind of like it, so I don’t mind.” 

“The girl wasn’t at the park today. I stayed a long time just in case, but she never showed up. I’ll keep checking the places I used to see her.” 

“I haven’t seen the girl in a long time. I haven’t been able to find any information on where she has gone, but I will keep trying.” 

This was the end of the journal and she set it aside, torn on whether or not she should pick up the next one. She knew what came next, after all, and it took quite a bit of thought before cracking the cover of the next journal. 

She read about his attempts to find out if she’d survived, his mother leaving for France, and her subsequent death. Moisture welled up in her eyes as his handwriting became shaky, the boy’s emotions poured out on the page with smudges from his tears. “Oh, Victor,” she whispered, wishing she could wrap her arms around him at that moment. She closed the journal and set it aside, wiping her face on her sleeve. There were some things she would rather read while he was nearby, and this…this was one of them.

And so she turned her attention to the box instead. It contained dozens of folders, each filled with pages upon pages of photocopied and printed documents. Pictures of the orphanage. News reports. Hand-written notes with her name all over them. The deeper she dug, the more the enormity of his search hit her. When she heard ‘I searched for you for 17 years,’ she had imagined a casual ‘keep an eye out and hope to run into each other’ type search. Not…this. How many hours of his youth had Victor poured into searching for a ghost? 

Then came adulthood. His resources had obviously opened up, because the information he gathered had become more and more obscure. Lists of Evolvers and their last known locations. Names of organizations whose purposes she could only guess at.  The more she read, the less carefully she stacked the folders until she was completely surrounded by bits and pieces of Victor’s time. 

And she reached the final chapter. The handwriting changed, and the documents with Victor’s writing mentioned a Detective Bao. She found a print out of their agreement, a payment record, minutes of their meetings together…Despite knowing Victor had spent a very long time searching for her, it was…almost overwhelming that he’d shown that level of care for her when they were both so very young. That he would spend so many hours. So much money. 

The reality of it hit her like the air had turned to honey. It stuck to her lungs and she found herself gasping for air. He hired a DETECTIVE. What had possessed him to go so far for a girl he’d last seen when he was 11? The amount of love she felt threatened to shatter her heart into a million pieces. She considered calling Victor to ask him about all of this. 

No. This was something that needed to be discussed in person. She needed to hold him and look into his eyes. The girl lay down on the floor in the midst of the papers, suddenly feeling quite exhausted by it all. Before she knew it, her eyes had fluttered closed. 

~~~

Victor fully expected his wife to be waiting for him at the door, so he was quite surprised when he made it all the way inside with no sign of her. Knowing her habit of falling asleep in random places, he began searching the house. Evidence of her hard work was not lost on him; Victor made sure to admire the cleanliness of the rooms as he looked for his wife. She deserved it, after all. 

The main house didn’t give up her position. Victor paused in the living room, glancing around with slight confusion. She definitely would have told him if she was going out. Maybe he’d missed a message? He pulled out his phone and glanced at their last messages. Ah, the journals. She must be in the attic. Sure enough, the stairs were still down. 

He took them two at a time, the desire to see his wife nearly impossible to contain. Sure enough, there she was. The papers she’d strewn around still surrounded her as she snored softly near the cabinet. Victor snickered and opened a nearby bin to pull out a light blanket. “What did I say about making a bigger mess?” he whispered, his words practically dripping with fondness. The fabric settled over the girl’s sleeping form and Victor began picking up a few of the sheets, quickly realizing what she’d found. 

But how had she reacted? He sat down next to his wife and brushed her hair out of her eyes, only to see mascara had run down her face. “I see. Of course a dummy would have such a reaction to finding this on her own. I probably should have remembered these records were in there with my journals when you mentioned them. I expect we’ll have to discuss what you found when you wake up.” 

Victor’s hand gently rested on the girl as he spoke, rubbing her back tenderly. She snuffled and shifted in her sleep, reaching out and grabbing his knee. He chuckled and placed his large, warm hand over hers and gave it a squeeze. “You probably should wake up and get into bed. It’s late. We’ll clean this all up tomorrow, together.” 

Just as he was about to scoop her up into his arms and carry her to bed, the girl’s eyes flickered open. She glanced around blearily for a moment as she got her bearings. Until her brain registered that Victor was home. The moment her eyes fell on his face, she immediately burst into tears. “Victor,” she cried, sitting up and wrapping her arms around his neck. “You are such a dummy! A dummy for a very, very long time!” 

Victor swept his wife off her feet and into his arms with a laugh. “I don’t regret any of it. But we’ll talk about that in the morning. Come on, let’s go to bed.” He tenderly carried her down the stairs and into their bedroom where he placed her in bed and tucked her in. The tears were still streaming down her face and he pulled a tissue from the box to blot them away. Moments later he joined her, not bothering with pajamas. He wanted to feel her warmth all over his skin, if just to reaffirm to himself that his mission really was accomplished. She really was there, soft and tender. Victor wrapped his arms and legs around his wife and closed his eyes. Surely he would get the first good night’s sleep he’d had since he left on his trip. 

~~~

He certainly did. Victor woke strangely late and disentangled his body from his wife’s. Which was a task; her sleeping brain seemed dead-set on not letting him go. Then again, he wasn’t overly inclined to leave her side, either. He placed a tender kiss on her forehead and pulled her in close, content to just lay there and watch her sleep as long as she wanted. 

Even with her raccoon mascara eyes and tousled hair, his wife was still the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. Each breath she took took his breath away and he counted his blessings to be by her side. Every minute and dollar he’d spent on locating her could not have been spent more wisely. Yes, they’d met again by chance, but it was a carefully orchestrated life which allowed that ‘chance.’

Really, he didn’t have to wait long for her to wake. The girl’s eyelids fluttered and rolled open. Victor immediately pulled her into a kiss, arms wrapped tightly around her as he pulled the sweet nectar of her breath from her lungs into his. “There. Now you’re not going to turn into a sprinkler when you look at me, right?” 

Her face scrunched in feigned offense, but quickly melted into a giggle. “No, that just happened because you got home in the middle of the night and woke me up! And because you weren’t here when I found out exactly how big of a dummy you are!” 

Victor began to laugh as he settled more comfortably in the bed with the girl still in his arms. “Why? Because I pursued a task through to completion? That’s nothing new for me.” 

“No, because you spent so much time and effort on something that happened when you were looking the other way! Plus you spent way too much on a detective who couldn’t find someone who had never left the city or tried to hide. Not the best return on that investment, Mr. CEO. And isn’t spending 17 years looking for someone that thoroughly a little bit stalker-y? I would have just put an advertisement in the paper looking for someone who loved my pudding as a kid. Problem solved.” 

The girl kissed Victor’s cheeks and ears, which had blossomed into a pale pink as she stared at him. When described that way…it did sound a little bit over the top. “Well, despite the methods and their effectiveness, I accomplished my goal. And it was worth every last minute, and every last penny. Stop staring at me and kiss me properly already.” 

“Only if you promise to go through it all with me after breakfast. I need to know what kept you motivated for that many years to find a girl you met when you were 10.” She was obviously teasing, but her eyes held more than a hint of seriousness. Victor blushed even more deeply, causing the girl to laugh and throw herself on top of him. “I’m going to assume you agree to my terms,” she giggled and melted into her husband, intent to show him that she loved him just as much.

[ninacarstairss]

an incomplete list of things that will make me go feral if they’re included in the movie:

alex pulling henry in the red room and “impugning his virtue” against a painting of alexander hamilton and amy out the door pretending not to know what that horny little bitch of fsotus is up to

henry offering to get out of alex’s life to make it easier for him and alex brushing it off, only to realise later what henry was truly offering him and how stupid he was not to see it

oscar talking to alex at the lake house. oscar seeing him and accepting him. alex looking at henry, nora and june (yes i know she’s not in the movie just let me dream. he can be looking at henry, nora and pez too) and feeling like his world is complete. the night on the porch swing. sometimes you just jump and hope it’s not a cliff. the night in the lake. the little stone of certainty alex feels in his chest as he’s making breakfast.

yeah so just the lake house part

uma thurman delivering a power point presentation about dating the prince of england and alex running out when she brings up protections and pamphlets

jesus, could you stop being an obtuse fucking asshole for, like, twenty seconds?

so glad you flew here to insult me—

i fucking love you, okay?

the issue of le monde that henry keeps on his nightstand from the first time they woke up together

i want you. then fucking have me—

alex waking up in kensington in an empty bed, henry coming back, looking at alex and going “your hair in the morning is truly a wonder to behold” before making the world’s best declaration of love

“When he got older, he learned about love as a strange thing that could fall apart no matter how badly you wanted it, a choice you make anyway. He never imagined it'd turn out he was right both times.” there is like a 0,1% chance of this making it into the movie but i have this tattooed on my skin and it would be so perfect to see it on screen

alex saying in front of the fucking queen that he wants henry’s children

henry rambling about art and history in the v&a and alex pulling him into a kiss because he just loves him so much

i’m taking a picture of a national gay landmark. and also a statue

alex panicking about henry having to enlist

shaan having to dislodge philip from the chandelier when henry comes out to him

i’ve been gay as a maypole since i came out of mum, philip

henry’s obsession with jaffa cakes and mr wobbles

the memories email. I took that down to the gardens. I pressed it into the leaves of a silver maple and recited it to the Waterloo Vase. It didn't fit in any rooms.

alex being a brat about the turkeys “put them in my room put them in my room put them in my room”

And then, inexplicably, you had the absolute audacity to love me back. Can you believe it?

alex calling henry at christmas and telling him all about his family drama and henry simply telling him that he did his best, the only thing he really needed to hear

most things in this world are awful . but you are good

alex’s list of things he loves about henry (especially points 16 to 18)

henry writing down the list in the email and then calling henry anyway because he knows he likes to have these things written down but he needs to talk to him

alex kissing henry in front of a giambologna

Sería una mentira, porque no sería el.

the drunk bad metaphors about maps email

alex being summoned by the president after the email leaks and ellen just asking him “are you okay?”

alex’s whole family being there for him after the email leaks, hugging him through a panic attack and allowing him to be himself after a traumatic event that had to be dealt with in a strategic political way

or so help me God I will personally make your balls into fucking earrings. zahra you fucking queen

the call from the plane. “sweetheart” he hears henry’s exhale over the line. “hi love. are you okay?”

alex and henry running to hug each other as soon as alex gets to kensington

i won’t lie. not about you. alex and henry saying at the same moment that they want to do this, they want to tell the truth, because lying about this is not an option

the little touches between them. whether it’s holding hands beneath a buchkingham palace table or hugging in a closed room or pressing a knee agains the other in a public place, because that is a tether, a gravity that makes the world make sense

bea’s speech about grief and how it’s like a pie. i want to cry really hard

numbers on one of us getting involved in a sex scandal before the end of second term?

henry sticking out his chin in that defiant way

I love him, with all that, because of all that. On purpose. I love him on purpose.

"Plus we banged it our last night” shaan and zahra being a power couple

bea dumping the tea pot on philip and going “all that cocaine i did must have really done a job on my reflexes!”

the han and leia mural

dc dykes on bikes chasing protesters

To you, specifically, I say: I see you. I am one of you. As long as I have a place in this White House, so will you. I am the First Son of the United States, and I'm bisexual. History will remember us.

alex’s face being plastered on chocolate bars and thongs with henry’s after the royal suitor photos

henry telling alex he’s opening the queer shelters worlwide. henry telling alex he bought a brownstone in brooklyn

the flashbacks to election night 2016 when alex saw zahra crying and all those women taking in the moment their first madam president was elected

alex and henry biking through austin, alex opening the door to his childhood home with henry by his side

a little flash forward into their future and alex calling henry the love of his life, henry choosing the place for a credenza in his brownstone, going on vacations together and falling in love all over again, savouring their time together with no fear of getting caught, june and nora finally kissing and alex being shook at pez’s comment, henry realising he doesn’t want to ever go back, henry listening to alex talk to his mum about marriage when he has also bought a ring, henry and alex buying a house far from the public eye, having the quiet life they never had, june subletting the brownstone to be closer to pez and nora, “you and me”