#my unwilling fail found family if you will

[princess-from-another-galaxy]

Recently got into Downton Abbey, and I NEED fics where Phyllis Baxter really is Thomas's sister, or maybe she's introduced earlier and helps speedrun his character arc lol

Would also not be opposed at Mrs Hughes & Mr Carson parents to Thomas Barrow fics ngl

[melanchoire]

ME AND MY HUSBAND ──── pham hanni.

── ( 🍸 ) stuck in your brother's shadow, you've always craved the love your parents freely give him, until his girlfriend arrives, and suddenly, it's her warmth that makes you feel seen for the first time.

pairing. soft dom!brother's fianceé!pham hanni x sub!fem reader

warning(s). sensitive topics (cheating, daddy & mommy issues, dysfunctional family, no one is mentally healthy here.) smut (cunnilingus, fingering, making out, nipple play, pet names, praise.)

word count. 4.6k

request. anon only requested hanni stuff and wasn't specific about preferences or anything in particular so i had to use one of the ideas from my twisted brain 🫶🏻

the weight of expectation had always felt like a physical pressure, a constant hum beneath your skin. your older brother, the golden child, had carved a path that your parents seemed determined you should follow, each step meticulously measured against his achievements. kindergarten, elementary school, high school — milestones he’d breezed through, each one a testament in their eyes to his inherent superiority. even as you navigated the same terrain, it felt like you were walking a path already paved, the only acceptable outcome being a perfect replica of his journey.

your brother, of course, thrived on this. you saw it in the glint in his eyes, the smug curve of his lips whenever your parents lauded his accomplishments. he seemed to revel in the way you’d bite your tongue, suppressing your own frustration, unwilling to start an argument you knew you couldn't win. his “achievements”, you’d often privately fume, were nothing more than the bare minimum, inflated by your parents' unwavering adoration. he was the teacher's pet, the goody two-shoes, the one who always did what was expected. and you? you were always just… you, never quite good enough by their standards.

university applications loomed, and the familiar chorus began. “your brother aced his entrance exams, you know.” “he had multiple offers, it was so difficult to choose.” you’d nod, biting back the retort that tasted like ash in your mouth. yes, you knew. you knew every detail of his accomplishments, every carefully phrased praise from your parents. it felt like his life was a highlight reel, constantly being replayed before your eyes, a stark reminder of your perceived inadequacy.

and his relationships? it was like a cruel joke. every new girlfriend was another opportunity for your parents to ask about your lack of romantic endeavors. “hen are you going to bring someone home?” they’d ask, their tone tinged with a mix of impatience and disappointment, as if you were actively choosing to fail in this specific area. your brother would watch, a smirk playing on his lips, clearly relishing in your discomfort. ue was the star, and you were the ever-present shadow, perpetually in his periphery, constantly being reminded of the light he cast and the darkness you supposedly inhabited.

then, hanni came into the picture, and everything shifted, not in the way you expected, but in a way that sparked something within you. pham hanni, your brother’s girlfriend, was a breath of fresh air, a radiant burst of sunshine in the dimly lit landscape of your family dinners. a law student with a smile that could disarm any bitterness, she possessed a charisma that was impossible to ignore. you couldn’t, and you didn’t try. you found yourself watching her when you thought no one noticed, observing how her brow furrowed slightly when she was concentrating on a conversation, the way her eyes crinkled when she laughed.

she possessed an undeniable radiance, a magnetic charm that seemed to draw everyone in. your parents, of course, adored her. they praised her intelligence, her ambition, the way she effortlessly fit into their carefully curated image of the perfect daughter-in-law.

she was a distraction, a welcome one. during those strained family meals, when your parents would inevitably turn their attention to your lack of romantic prospects, hanni would interject, her voice a gentle melody in the cacophony. “how are your studies going?” she’d ask, her eyes warm and genuinely interested, making a noticeable contrast to your parents’ perfunctory inquiries. she’d actually listen, unlike your parents, nodding attentively as you explained your latest project, offering compliments that felt sincere, not forced like the ones from your family. “that's fascinating!” she'd say, her tone making you feel like your thoughts and words held value. you were used to being invisible in your own home, and she saw past that. you were not invisible to her.

your brother and parents would be engaged in their usual self-congratulatory routines, the air thick with unspoken comparisons. but then, hanni would reach out, a question about your day or a gentle comment about something she’d noticed. it was like a brief escape, a stolen moment of warmth in the chill of the constant scrutiny. you started paying attention, noticing the small details. the way she would laugh at your jokes, her hand briefly touching your arm during a gesture, a small brush of her fingers as she handed you a dish, or the lingering gaze she would offer you across the table. she seemed to see you, not just as your brother’s sister, but as an individual with thoughts, feelings, and dreams of her own.

it was… different. it was the kind of attention you craved, the kind you hadn’t realized you were missing. and it was coming from the one person you shouldn’t be fixated upon, your brother’s girlfriend. was it possible to develop real feelings for her? the thought was a dangerous whisper in the back of your mind. she was everything you admired; intelligent, beautiful, kind. she was the antithesis of everything you had ever been made to feel, and you fell for it hard.

the feelings that stirred within you confused you. was it just gratitude for the kindness she offered? or was it something more? was it possible to develop genuine feelings for your brother’s girlfriend? it felt like a transgression, a betrayal of some unspoken code. and yet, when she laughed, her eyes crinkling at the corners, or when she’d ask about your latest writing project, your heart would flutter, a sensation both exciting and terrifying.

beyond the pleasantries, there were these fleeting moments of intense connection. the way her soft tone, when addressing you, seemed to carry a different weight than her interactions with your parents or even your brother.

you started analyzing her every interaction. ehen she spoke to your parents, her voice held a polite formality, a careful curation of tone. but with you, there was a different warmth, a hint of something deeper. her gaze, too, held a different quality when directed at you. it lingered, an unspoken question hanging in the air. during a particularly drawn-out dinner, as your brother regaled your parents with his latest legal victory, you felt a soft pressure on your hand. you looked down to see hanni’s fingers lightly resting on your own. her eyes were on you, a small, almost conspiratorial smile playing on her lips. you pulled your hand away, a jolt running through you, and focused on your plate, your cheeks flushed.

once, while your brother was rambling about his work, she’d slid a small, intricately folded napkin across the table towards you, and as you discreetly opened it, you found a simple doodle of a smiling flower and a short note, “hope you’re having a good evening! <3” it said, her handwriting neat and elegant.

another time, as you were helping your mother clear the dinner table, you felt a gentle touch on your back. it was hanni. “let me help.” she’d said, her voice soft and low, her breath tickling your ear. your skin prickled where her fingers had been, and you felt a wave of heat wash over you.

these moments were like fragments of a dream, confusing and alluring. was it your imagination, desperate for connection? or was she subtly hinting at something, a shared undercurrent of feeling that she also seemed to be aware of? the lines were blurred, and you found yourself caught in a whirlwind of uncertainty and longing.

then came the engagement announcement. your brother and hanni were getting married. the news was delivered with the celebratory fanfare you’d come to expect from your parents, as if your brother’s engagement was an achievement they could also claim. the questions, of course, intensified. “when will you bring someone home?” your mother asked, her brow furrowed with concern. you wanted to scream. to point out the hypocrisy, the absurdity of constantly reminding you of your perceived failures while you grappled with feelings you barely understood.

and still, despite the engagement, despite the impending wedding, hanni continued to look at you, continued to touch your hand, to whisper your name in a tone that sent a tremor through you. it was as if the engagement hadn't changed anything between you. you were caught in a whirlwind of confusion, desperately trying to decipher her signals, her glances, and her unexpected gestures. was it possible that she felt something too? or was it your own wishful thinking, your desire for her attention coloring your perception of reality? it was torture, this constant push and pull, this sense that you were on the precipice of something you couldn’t fully understand, something that felt both thrilling and terrifying. you couldn’t tell if you were confusing things or if she was actually hinting at things. it was hard to tell if a girl was flirting with you, being a girl too. maybe that’s why you felt like you were drowning in a sea of indecision.

you were caught in a loop, constantly questioning your perceptions. was she playing some kind of game? was she just being kind? or was there something more to her actions? being a girl, you weren't used to the subtleties of flirting between women. the signals felt blurry, coded in a language you were only just beginning to decipher. you longed to understand the truth, to know if the feelings simmering within you were just a fantasy, or a shared flame waiting to be ignited. and you were terrified by the prospect of either possibility.

the clatter of plates against each other was a familiar soundtrack to your evenings. you meticulously wiped each dish, the ceramic cool beneath your fingertips, while your mother rinsed. your father, a creature of habit, methodically cleared the remaining debris from the table, a newspaper tucked under his arm, ready for his post-dinner read. and your brother? he’d already sunk into the couch, a possessive arm draped around hanni, his focus entirely consumed by her smile. typical. you sighed, a puff of air that ruffled a stray strand of hair.

you turned from the sink, the kitchen light casting long shadows down the hallway. you were halfway up the stairs, the familiar squeak of the third step a comforting sound, when a hand clamped onto your forearm. you turned, annoyed. your brother stood there, his usual smirk slightly sheepish.

“hey…!” he began, his gaze shifting nervously. “so, uhm…can hanni sleep in your room tonight?”

your eyebrows shot up. “what? why?” you couldn't quite keep the exasperation from your voice. hanni always slept in his room, nestled amidst his chaotic collection of video game paraphernalia and discarded energy drink cans. why the sudden change?

he shifted his weight from one foot to the other. “well…” he started, his tone laced with reluctance, “tomorrow is our anniversary. and…i have her gift. it's on my desk, in my room. i don't want her to see it before then.”

you crossed your arms, a mixture of amusement and disbelief bubbling inside you. “so you brought her here and now you can’t even spend the night in the same room together because you can’t hide a gift?” you asked, a pinch of irritation in your tone. “why even bring her here at all if we aren’t going to spend time together?”

he winced at your words. “it’s just—… please? just for tonight?” there was a desperate edge to his voice that you couldn’t entirely ignore. he’d never really ask for anything, and that was probably the reason for your next response.

you rolled your eyes. “fine.” you conceded, though the word felt heavy as it left your mouth. “but this is ridiculous.”

upstairs, your room felt suddenly inadequate. you carefully pulled a padded cloud-like mattress from the storage closet, laying it neatly on the floor beside your bed. you covered it with soft sheets and a fluffy quilt, adding a couple of pillows for good measure, trying to make a somewhat comfortable space. you were barely finished when a gentle knock sounded at the door.

your stomach did a strange flip as you opened it. hanni stood there, a soft smile playing on her lips. her dark hair was pulled back from her face, highlighting the delicate curve of her jaw. she looked almost ethereal in the dim hallway light.

you stepped back, ushering her inside. but in that moment, you felt a strange wave of self-consciousness wash over you. your eyes scanned the room, mentally cataloging the chaos. piles of clothes formed a precarious mountain on your desk chair, your old stuffed animals lined the shelves, their button eyes staring blankly ahead, and a random assortment of art supplies lay scattered across your desk. you felt your cheeks flush, hoping hanni wouldn’t notice the disarray.

you braced yourself for a judgmental smirk, but it never came. instead, her smile widened.

she did notice, of course. her gaze swept over the room but instead of the judgement you expected, her face softened into a smile. “it’s cute.” she said, her voice warm and genuine. “it feels very… you.”

you blinked, surprised. most people just saw the clutter. you gestured vaguely to the mattress on the floor. “so… make yourself comfortable, i guess.” you muttered, feeling a sudden awkwardness settle over you.

you settled into your bed, the silence in the room feeling thick and uncomfortable. you tried to focus on a book, but the words blurred before your eyes. you couldn’t shake the awareness of her presence, so close yet so far. the small sounds of her breathing, the faint rustle of fabric as she shifted on the mattress, all seemed amplified in the quiet of your room.

hours seemed to pass like molasses. you shifted, trying to find a comfortable position, but sleep seemed to elude you. suddenly, her voice broke the silence, low and gentle.

”you seem... restless.” hanni's voice was soft, breaking the silence. you turned on your side and faced her.

“i can’t sleep,” you admitted, feeling foolish. “it’s… new, having someone in here.”

she giggled, a soft, musical sound that made your insides flutter. “well, i have something to distract you.” she reached out, her finger gently brushing against your arm. “i wanted to ask you something important.”

you sat up, your back against the headboard. "okay?"

her eyes sparkled in the dimmed light. “i want you to be one of my bridesmaids, at the wedding, of course. but, specifically, i want you to be my maid of honor.”

your jaw dropped. this was… unexpected. you weren’t even friends, not really. bridesmaids were reserved for the closest friends, the people who had been there through every step of the way. “what?”.

she sat up, her eyes sparkling in the faint light that filtered in from the window. “When i get married, i want you to be one of my bridesmaids.”

“but… i'm not…we’re not even friends," you stammered, the words tumbling out of your mouth. “bridesmaids are supposed to be people close to you.”

she smiled, a small knowing curve of her lips. “i want you close.” she said, and her tone made you feel like she didn’t mean it in just the literal sense. “the most important one, the special one.”

you were speechless. you barely knew her, had barely exchanged more than a few words with her. she was your brother’s girlfriend, that was the only connection between you two. why would she want you?

but her words resonated within you, a strange mix of confusion and something else, something that felt a little like hope, but you quickly pushed it down. “but why me? i—" you ask.

“shhh.” he whispered, her voice low and husky. “i’ve been watching you. and i know."

“know what?” you try to ask, but a wave of nervousness washes through you at how close she is.

before you could even form another question, you felt the presence next to the mattress shift. the edge of your bed dipped, the springs groaning beneath the sudden weight. you looked to the side, your eyes struggling to adjust in the darkness. hanni was there, a shadow against the dim light, yet you could still recognize the curve of her lips and the intensity in her gaze.

she didn’t answer with words, instead, she leaned down, her lips brushing against yours. it was a tentative touch, a gentle exploration, and yet, it sent sparks flying through your veins. you tried to pull away, but she held you there, her fingers tangling in your hair.

“hanni…” you whispered, your voice a mix of shock and bewilderment. “what are you doing? go back to your mattress. your anniversary... the wedding, what would your fiancé say?”

she reached out, her hand cupping your cheek, her thumb caressing your skin. “he can wait.” she murmured, her voice barely a whisper. “i’ve been watching you for a long time, you know? i know the way you look at me. i know what your family is like with you.”

tour breath hitched. how could she know? how could she possibly understand?

“but—...” you began, trying to regain some semblance of control, “you can’t just—”

she silenced you, her fingers moving to trace the line of your jaw, her touch sending shivers down your spine. “i want to make you feel loved,” she whispered, her lips brushing against yours, a feather-light touch that sent your senses reeling.

the kiss was soft, tentative at first, a gentle exploration of your lips. but after a few seconds later, the kiss deepened, her lips parting yours, her tongue tracing a path along your lower lip, tasting you. your protests melted away as a desire you didn’t know you possessed surged within you. the kiss became more demanding, more urgent, and your body responded instinctively, arching towards her touch.

she pulled back slightly, her breath warm against your skin, and continued kissing you, your jaw, your neck. each touch sending shivers down your spine. her hands moved to your shoulders, gently pulling you closer, deepening the kiss, her lips claiming your skin, exploring each curve and hollow. there was a hunger in her touch, a possessiveness that both frightened and thrilled you. you were being consumed by the feeling, your mind swirling, and for the first time tonight, you didn’t want the night to end. you were hers, completely.

her hands were everywhere, exploring the contours of your body, pulling you closer and closer until you were practically melded against her. the kisses were coming faster now, more insistent, more demanding, as she slowly took control of the situation, leaving you breathless and overwhelmed. you wanted to resist, to tell her to stop, but the words were lost in the intensity of her touch.

hanni leaned down and captured your lips in a slow, sensual kiss. her lips moved against yours with a tender passion, her tongue teasing the seam of your mouth. one hand caressed your cheek, while the other trailed down the side of your neck, over your collarbone, and down to the neckline of your nightgown.

“can i undress you, sweetheart?” she breathed against your lips, her fingers already working on the hem of your nightgown. “i want to see all of you... taste all of you.”

hanni’s touch was gentle and reverent, her intentions clear. she wanted to make love to you, to bring you pleasure and satisfaction. the room was filled with the soft sounds of your breathing and the gentle rustling of fabric, an intimate and sensual atmosphere.

the weight of reality falls on you in that instant. you’ve never had anything so intimate with someone before, not even a relationship. but... with her this felt different, it felt right. so, you don't see the need to refuse or back down. “... yes.”

hanni smiled softly at your breathless consent, her eyes darkening with desire as she slowly took off your nightgown. she peeled the fabric away from your skin, revealing the lacy bra and panties you wore underneath. her gaze traced over the curves of your breasts, the dip of your waist, and the flare of your hips, taking in every inch of your exposed skin.

“you’re so beautiful…” she murmured, her voice low and filled with wonder. She leaned down and placed a tender kiss on your collarbone, her lips lingering on your skin. “i want to touch you everywhere, taste you everywhere.”

hanni’s hands slid up your sides, her fingers splaying across your ribcage. she unhooked your bra with a deft flick of her wrists, freeing your breasts from their confines. she took a moment to admire the sight of your hardened nipples, before leaning down to capture one in her mouth.

she swirled her tongue around the sensitive peak, suckling gently as her hand cupped and kneaded the soft flesh of your breast. her other hand slid down your stomach, her fingers dipping beneath the waistband of your panties. she could feel the heat emanating from your core, the dampness that had already soaked through the delicate lace.

hanni’s touch was slow and sensual, focused on building your pleasure and desire. she wanted to take her time with you, to explore every inch of your body and bring you to the heights of ecstasy. she knew she had all night to make you hers.

hanni’s fingers slipped beneath the fabric of your panties, brushing against your slick folds. she groaned softly against your breast, the vibrations sending shivers of pleasure through your body. she could feel how ready you were for her, how much your body ached for her touch.

slowly, teasingly, hanni peeled your panties down your legs, tossing them aside onto the floor. she settled herself between your thighs, her breath hot against your most intimate place. she looked up at you, her eyes dark and filled with lust, seeking permission.

“can i taste you, baby?” she murmured, her fingers brushing against your clit, spreading your folds open for her.

but you couldn't keep up the lie for long. “... i've never done this before.”

hanni’s heart melted at your shy admission, a soft smile spreading across her face. she leaned up and pressed a gentle kiss to your stomach, her hands caressing your thighs soothingly.

“shhh, it's okay baby. i'll take care of you.” she murmured, her voice low and reassuring. “i promise i'll make this amazing for you. just relax and let me love on you, sweetheart.”

hanni settled back between your legs, her fingers gently parting your folds. she leaned in and placed a soft, closed-mouth kiss on your clit, before dragging her tongue along your slit, tasting your essence.

she groaned at the flavor of you, her eyes fluttering closed in bliss. she delved deeper, her tongue exploring your folds, before focusing on your clit. she circled the sensitive bud with the tip of her tongue, before suckling gently, sending waves of pleasure crashing through your body.

hanni’s hands gripped your thighs, holding you open for her as she feasted on you. she could feel your hips starting to rock against her face, your body seeking more of her touch. she obliged, two fingers delving deep inside you, curling against that special spot that made your toes curl.

hanni’s fingers pumped slowly in and out of you, her tongue never stopping its sensual assault on your clit. she could feel your inner walls fluttering around the invading digits, your body instinctively trying to draw them deeper.

she looked up at you, her eyes dark and filled with lust, watching your every reaction. she could see the pleasure playing out across your face, the way your brows furrowed and your lips parted in soft gasps and moans. it spurred her on, making her double her efforts to bring you to your peak.

hanni’s free hand slid up your body, cupping your breast, rolling and kneading the soft flesh. she pinched your nipple gently, sending a jolt of pleasure-pain straight to your core. she could feel your hips starting to jerk and writhe against her face, your body tensing as your climax approached.

she pulled back for a moment, her fingers slipping out of you. she gazed at you with a wicked grin, before diving back in, sucking your clit hard as she plunged three fingers deep inside you. she curled them just right, rubbing that special spot that made stars explode behind your eyelids.

“that's it, baby.” she urged, her voice muffled against your sex. “come for me, baby. i want to taste your cum on my tongue. let go, sweetheart.”

hanni’s fingers pumped faster, her tongue working overtime, determined to push you over the edge and into ecstasy.

hanni could feel your body tensing, your inner muscles clenching around her fingers as your climax approached. she doubled her efforts, sucking hard on your clit as she pumped her fingers in and out of you at a rapid pace. her other hand slid down to your ass, gripping the soft flesh and pulling you harder against her face, desperate to taste your release.

“come on, baby.” she urged, her voice strained with desire. “give it to me. i want to feel you cum all over my face.”

with a final, hard suck on your clit and a curl of her fingers, she sent you hurtling over the edge. your body convulsed, back arching off the bed as a scream of pure pleasure tore from your throat. hanni moaned against you as your essence flooded her mouth, lapping it up greedily, relishing the taste of your climax.

she gentled her touch as your body trembled and shook, riding out the waves of your orgasm. she placed soft kisses on your sensitive flesh as your breathing slowly returned to normal. finally, she pulled back, a satisfied smirk on her face as she gazed up at you with adoring eyes.

“that's my good girl.” she purred, crawling up your body to capture your lips in a searing kiss. She let you taste yourself on her tongue, moaning softly as she savored the flavor. “you did so well, baby. i'm so proud of you.”

hanni cuddled you close as you both caught your breath, her arms wrapped around your trembling body. she stroked your hair, your back, your arms, anywhere she could reach, trying to soothe you down from your intense high. her touch was gentle and tender, full of a quiet adoration she rarely showed.

“you okay, sweetheart?” she asked softly, tilting your chin up to look at her.

“yes, yes i am, don't worry. it's just—it was very intense.” you murmur breathlessly, running a hand through your hair, pushing away the loose strands that stuck to your forehead and face due to the fine layer of sweat covering your skin.

her thumb brushed over your cheek, wiping away the tears of pleasure that had slipped down your face. “you were amazing. so responsive and sexy. i loved every second of making you cum like that.”

ahe leaned in and kissed you again, slow and deep, pouring all her desire and affection into the embrace. her tongue danced with yours, letting you taste the lingering essence of your climax on her lips.

breaking the kiss, hanni nuzzled into your neck, breathing in your scent, a mix of arousal and satisfaction. she nipped and suckled at your pulse point, marking you as hers in a way that would leave a visible reminder of your intimate encounter.

“i'm not done with you yet though…” she murmured, her voice low and full of promise. “i want to make you cum over and over again tonight. i want to worship this beautiful body of yours until you're completely spent and satisfied.”

to emphasize her point, one of hanni’s hands slid down your stomach, her fingers toying with the slick folds of your sex. she could feel the renewed heat emanating from your core, the dampness that signaled your body's willingness for more.

and well, this would definitely give you enough closeness to her to be able to be one of her bridesmaids.

[solkara]

❛ 𝐕𝐎𝐘𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐀 𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐄 , rhaenyra targaryen ❜

⌗ 𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 , you since you were young you would be a sailor just like your father you loved the water but the only thing that you loved more than the sea was your family

⌗ 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 , rhaenyra targaryen x fem! velaryon! sailor! reader

⌗ 𝐬𝐨𝐥'𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 , okayyyyy so this is def the last part for this little headcannon lol hope you guys have enjoyed it !!

previous part , house of the dragon masterlist

⌗ if you could stay away from rhaenyra and daemon for the rest of your life you would. but unfortunately that was not possible unless you were willing to give up your relationship with laena's children. which you were unwilling to do as they were the last pieces of her that you had left.

⌗ so here you were docking on the shaws of dragonstone. something you swore you would never do. but after baela and rhaena's piles of letters to you while you were at sea begging you to vist them. you finally caved.

⌗ now here you in the embrace of your two nieces. and for a slight moment it felt as if it was just the three of you. until someone cleared their throat. breaking up your intimate moment. you look up to see rhaenyra daemon and their children. walking forward you greet the two adults with gritted teeth. before turning your attention to jace luke and joffery.

⌗ though it was clear the children were not her deceased brothers. but you did not see the point in punishing innocent children for something that is not their fault. so you would try your best to put side your hate for their mother and be the best aunt you could to them. "I've bought them gifts" you said. gesturing to your crew members who were unloading heavy looking trunks. "for all of us?" jace asked surprised as he was not expecting to get anything. to which you nodded with a smile "a trunk for each of you though I will admit I wasn't to sure what either of you were interested in so I just collected trinkets from my travel"

⌗ "thank you" the voice of rhaenyra drew your eye's away from the dark haired boy momentarily. to which you could only curtly nod in response. before you were dragged off into the castle by your two eager nieces. and for the days that followed you spent most of your time with baela rhaena jace and luke. as you shared stories with them about your adventures on the high sea's and trained and gossiped together. and the rare few moments that you were in the same room as either rhaenyra or daemon. you either ignored them or converse the bare minimum.

⌗ which infuriated rhaenyra to no end. as she wanted nothing more than to spend time with you and explain herself. she wanted you to know that she loved you. that she wanted you more than anything. and that she didn't kill your brother. and she was ashamed to admit that she found herself feeling jealous of her children. and how they had forged such a strong bound with you. while she had been trying for years and failed every time.

⌗ now daemon knew that rhaenyra was in love with you. and he had no problem with it. as he knew deep down inside rhaenyra would never love him the way she loved you. and he was okay with that. their marriage wasn't one of love. it was one of connivence to protect them from the snakes that lurked. and the two had agreed that once they had smoothed everything over they would convince you to marry them. so you could be rhaenyra's. and the three of you could rule the kingdom together. like the conquerors reborn.

⌗ and this plan all came to ahead one night. as you sat awake late at night. looking out across dragonstone from on top of the highest tower in the castle. when you heard two pair's of footsteps approach you from behind. "please don't punch me" daemon said from behind you. you didn't even brother to look at him.

⌗ "if you know how this will play out why are the two of you bothering" you asked with a long sigh. genuinely curious as to why they were putting in so much effort just for you to change your perception of them. "because I love you" silence. finally turning to face the pair you looked at the princess face. eyes filled with tears ready to spill and skin shining in the moonlight. you couldn't deny she looked beautiful.

⌗ "do you hear me I said it's because I love you!" rhaenyra repeated stepping closer to you. "I heard you the first time but tell me why would I love the woman who had my brother dead" and with that you tried to leave but she caught your hand. "he's not dead laenor he's in essos I helped him faked his death so he could live the life he wanted" silence once more. "how do I know you are not lying" you ask your voice nothing more than a whisper. "look me in the eyes and you will see I am telling the truth" and so you did. and you saw not a hint of deception in her eyes. only love.

⌗ "why didn't you tell me" you said eyes welling with tears. "we tried to but you wouldn't listen" daemon butted in. and you could practically hear the eye rolls. "and you love me?" you asked looking at the targayen princess who had now interlocked her fingers with yours. "for as long as I can remember" she said with a smile. "what what about you and..." you questioned looking between the two white haired royals.

⌗ "a marriage of connivence" daemon stated plainly. and with that you couldn't help but look at the woman in front of you in a different light. she helped your brother escape to the life he had always dreamed of. "thank you" and with that you drew her into a kiss. and it was as if the world around you had stopped. breaking apart for air the two of you couldn't help but lean against each others foreheads of support. as if you leg's were going to give out any minute.

⌗ "now I know this may be a bit quick but...will you marry me. marry us so we can be the conquerors reborn" the princess ask was more like a whisper as if she was scared to hear your response. as you looked at her with lust fogged eyes. "all you had to do was ask princess" and with that the two of you practically ran to her chamber with daemon in tow. as the two of you enjoyed you night together. and daemon well. he mostly watched.

⌗ and by early morning preparation were already being made for you to be wed to the two. much to the joy of the children. would jumped to embrace you when they heard the news. and later in the afternoon you were officially wed to daemon and rhaenyra targaryen in the traditions of old valyria.

⌗ as the years passed your relationship only blossomed. as your love for rhaenyra seemed to only grow by the day. the two of you spending countless night together. and with daemon. and while you did cut down on your adventures at see your wife was more than willing to let you go out and explore. as long as you came home to them. to your family.

⌗ and on the day of her coronation you and daemon were with her every step of the way. as she was declared queen. and you and daemon king and queen consort. life was perfect and you couldn't be happier. as you had found the perfect blend of water and fire.

[deathbxnny]

OKAAAAAYYYY!

After some careful deliberaing on the two options currently at my disposal, I have come to a decision!

(Takes place a number a weeks after the magic show secret debacle to be decided at your discretion!)

The stars have seemingly aligned. Unexpectedly, for what feels like the first time in forever, there's a lull in Arlecchino's typically chockful schedule. Sure there's a small amount of paperwork, but otherwise... her day schedule is weirdly... empty.

So, she decides to use the freetime that the fates had granted to take you on a date, considering how long it'd been since you'd last done something like that as couple (plus, she secretly does feel kind of guilty for embarrassing Lyney after the look you gave her. But she's much to proud to admit that to your face, plus she still at least partially feels like her actions were still "necessary"). Considering how "Mother" doesn't like being away from the House for long periods of time, Arlecchino elects to make it a sort of "stay at home dinner date" with House servants and the Children serving the dishes.

Now most of the children might not notice it, but Lyney, Lynette and Freminet can sense it all too well. There's this indescribably "tension" between the two of you, one so intense, it could be cut with one of the steak knives at your disposal. Conversation is stiff, and even though you're sitting not even a foot away from each other, there seems to be nigh uncrossable distance between you two.

It would appear you’re still a bit upset about the previous weeks events...

X Anon

Blood in the water. | Arlecchino x Fem!Wife!Reader

Find the other parts to this in my genshin master list!!

Sorry for the long wait, X Anon, and thank you once more for your great requests! I hope you'll enjoy this, since I had fun writing it... it also turned out way more angsty than I thought, so uhhh... I'm sorry in advance...😭

Content: Wife reader, heavy angst, trauma, spoilers to Arlecchino's past, established romantic relationship, gaslighting, sfw

Reader is afab and has she/her pronouns.

((Not fully proofread))

Your body shifted in your seat uncomfortably under her intense gaze, eyes lingering on the golden wedding band on your finger that didn't glint as proudly anymore. Everything has dulled in the last month following the failed show. And despite your son's reassurance that he didn't mind and figured he must've done something wrong to anger his Father, you very much disagreed. Mainly because you knew better than to believe that it was nothing short of pettiness.

Which led you to now, seated at your dinner table with your wife, as the children rushed around to serve you as perfect maids and butlers. It was supposed to be a beautiful date, one that you had been wishing for for months. Yet due to her busy schedule, you only now got around to it... right after the incident.

Terrible timing indeed.

Weeks ago, you may have sat here with a girlish giddiness that was rare to find in your daily lives. But faced with uncertainty in the face of potential doom by the calculating hand of your wife, you found yourself feeling empty instead. Small smiles still forced themselves onto your lips whenever your children came by as you were unwilling to show your disdain in front of them. Thankfully, they didn't seem to notice... or at least most of them didn't. Lyney was nervously hovering around the room every so often, attempting to act like a sly waiter, yet the sweat on his forehead and the slightest quiver in his grin still gave him away.

Quite frankly, you didn't want to participate in any of this tonight. Your excitement for such dates had long melted away due to your frustration about everything lately. She pretended not to notice, simply moving on with her day as if she wasn't beginning to rip the family apart. You were so angry, so sad. But you held it together for the sake of everyone in the house and her. Even if she didn't feel deserving of it anymore.

Glancing up at her briefly, you watched as she idly drank from her glass of wine, blissfully unaware of the plight you were in, although you knew better than to believe it. The tension was thick and suffocating. And the silence was ringing in your ears at this point. She was the one who suggested this in the first place, so why couldn't she put more energy into this? Why did you have to do everything for her?

When did you start resenting her so much?

Good question. Admittedly, you couldn't exactly pinpoint a moment where it might have begun to go downhill, but it kept you up at night. Was it perhaps when you took over the orphanage together? She was always so adamant about doing things differently than Curcabena, which is why she took on the title of "Father" that day... but your title as "Mother" wasn't as easy to reclaim. She was vehemently against it at first, nearly letting it slip that she found you too incompetent for the role, that only she should have the power over the house and the upbringing of the children. Yet you pushed through and eventually were allowed to play your role, too... although the path there was exhausting due to Arlecchino's unrelenting wrath.

"Is there something on your mind, my love?" Her voice cut through your thoughts like a knife, her tone dousing you in ice cold water. Oh, she certainly didn't sound as jolly as she should at your presence. Not that she ever did. "You didn't say anything to me all day, despite this date being your idea, dear." You replied before quickly downing some food in case things got out of hand. Never have you ever spoken to her in a condescending tone. It wasn't in your nature. But tonight, things were different.

Far more different.

Lyney and his two other siblings nervously glanced at each other from behind the dining room door at the sound of your voice. Yep, you were definitely very much still angry despite claiming you weren't. The tension was suffocating them every time they stepped into the room, but somehow, they were also the only ones to notice that. Sighing, Freminet played with the hem of his frilly shirt. "This... isn't good. Mother isn't pleased." "Ahaha... I'm sure they'll solve the disagreement soon and get over it like always! You know how they are!" Yes, the boy did, and that's why he was worried.

People often mistook you as a docile yes-man who did whatever her Harbinger wife asked of her. At the beginning of the House of Hearth, that may have been very true... until it wasn't. You eventually split apart due to your different ideas on parenting yet still tried to work together on most days. On others, it turned into cold wars like these, in which both of you refused to budge on your opinion, Father more so than you. You at least tried to compromise when needed, but you refused to adhere to her every command. Especially when many, many, many of your children started to die.

The image of the family's graveyard came to mind, which made him cringe away further from the door. It was really just a matter of time until you finally exploded. Thankfully, Lynette seemed to agree as she crossed her arms and shook her head. "This isn't going to end well, Lyney. This is... probably not going to be solved." The young man's forced smile faltered, and she was therefore quick to add the next sentence. "And it's no one's fault."

It was no secret that Lyney was partially blaming himself for your falling out, as he racked his brain to figure out what exactly he had done wrong. He wanted to prove to his father for so long that he was worth the title of "King", yet this felt like a set back and he now had to deal with the fear of the house falling apart. If only he was better, then maybe none of this would have to happen now.

Sensing her brother's discomfort, she gently pressed a hand against his shoulder, eyes turning to glance back at the creaked open door in silent worry.

"Hm... My apologies. I simply have a lot on my mind." The conversation was stiff and rigid, yet the chaotic, raging energy was beginning to brew below the surface, and so was your temper. "Oh really? Are you thinking about which child of ours you should humiliate next?" Arlecchino looked up at you, the glint in her unique eyes warning you of the dangerous game you were playing. But you ignored it, as you pretended not to notice either. Of she wanted to be petty and ignorant, then you can be too.

"... I see you're still upset." "How can I not be? You punished my son for no reason. In his own show at that." Your voices were calm. Too calm. It sounded as though you were speaking of the weather. It was depressing that this is what your relationship had turned into. "Our son, love." She corrected you idly, as though scolding a small child for a mispronunciation. "And I did no such thing. I believe you're just imagining things again." A cruel jab to the delirious state you once were in when Curcabena still had a terrible hold on your mind. She haunted you at every step and looked over your shoulder in disgust at every "mistake" you made. She is why you had to suffer so badly when reclaiming your title.

For Arlecchino to use that against you not only proved that her patience was wearing thin, but that she also would do anything to keep you chained to her. You had long moved on from your past, unwilling to be caged by it any longer. But in her quest to do the same, Peruere became the cage itself. She locked the door to yours and your children's freedom tightly, unwilling to ever let you especially go. Was it envy that she couldn't escape fate? Or did she really still love you as purely as she did back when you were children?

The buzzing in your ears was getting louder, and you knew better than to stay seated. You were used to her games, but you wouldn't let her do this to you again. You refused to suffer when your children needed you the most. "You know what, Peruere? I think you are just angry that your legacy isn't yours. That the boy that you raised turned into his Mother's image instead-" You stoo up, hands resting against the oak table with a thud. Your words made her gaze harden and reconfirm your long-standing suspicions. "-He is so kind. So soft. So strong. You don't have the ruthless king you wished for. The one Crucabena would've loved to have-" "-Don't you dare finish that sentence."

Her breathing was heavier, a little uneven, something that never typically happened. But you too knew her perfectly. You knew what buttons to press, even if you never wanted to press them to begin with. "... what happened to you? Why can't you be happy with us? Why are you hurting me?" These questions are impossible to answer, which you knew of course. But the look on her face made you suddenly reel away from the table and flee the room in disbelief.

This wasn't the woman you fell in love with so many years ago as children. This wasn't the woman you married. This wasn't the woman that you raised children with.

This was the Knave. A ruthless Harbinger that must've purged the last of your wife's humanity... or was it perhaps Curcabena who was still following you after all?

Whatever the case may be, you let out a broken sob once you pushed past the three frozen children and escaped to your shared room, unable to handle the heartbreak any longer.

[lady-ashfade]

My Oath

day six of celebration marathon

Percy Jackson x platonic!demigod!reader. (God of the unknown because I can’t help myself, he is a oc of mine for my pjo series)

-£ plot: Your father has learned of a new forbidden child. As his number one he sends you to do his bidding. until your loyalty is challenged.

-words: 1k

-£part two?

-£ warnings: angst, plot of murder, new plot, slight spoilers for readers father in “a love watered by blood”, god of the unknown, (Big spoilers. Reader is sent to kill Pecy) , also the song from Epic:the Troy sagas “the horse and the infant” is what this is based off of.

you were no oath breaker.

you bowed at your fathers feet as he sat upon his throne. the place you called home was dark and misty, your fathers doing, it was a place of mistrust but undying loyalty to him. it was you who was called on often as you served at his hand, you proved your worth as a demigod and you became something more when he took you into his ranks. no other gods dared to speak to him and he liked it that way, no fuss or chatting.

they had many secrets. and he could spill them all.

he hated his “family” and they knew it. wars have been taught over centuries and he picked a side with little care. but he did love secrets and nothing was kept from him even in the smallest corner in the world. every whisper was his to hear.

“what is needed of me.” your eyes stayed on the marble floor beneath your knee, your arms thrown over and await his command.

“i have found a forbidden child, again,” he picked at his nails, his body slumped against the throne.

“a son of poseidon, perseus jackson. make his death quick, but i don’t care if it’s painful.”

you slowly looked up at him, you examined his calm and carelessness behavior. a forbidden child was not unheard of to you, as you have been sent to watch a few over the many years. killing was easy for you, no harm came to your mind as the thought of displeasing your father outweighed any death you caused by your hands.

“tell me where to go.” you agreed to the quest.

earth was a strange place, especially since you grew up in a different time. though you watched the mortal realm in the mirror in your room, finding peaceful places and happy memories being created. but it was a curse, no matter how hard you tried to fight it, when your eyes closed you would dream about the horrors of life. maybe it was a way of life getting back at you for being the cause of destruction— a weapon to be used.

creeping into the apartment building, the widow was not able to keep you out since you had many tools. you’ve done things like this, sneak and kill, return and repeat at his command. you never failed— in fear of being destroyed yourself, a gods wrath was a hard punishment for anyone.

the room was dark and only the light from the moon shined in, making things noticeable. the clothes sticked to your skin from the weather that night. drawling your dagger, preparing to kill your next victim and without causing destress or a fight. but it wasn’t a man you saw. it wasn’t a bed.

it was a crib, a few shells hanging above the babes sleeping body.

stepping back in shock and hesitation you stare at the infant. he was so small. he looked healthily. how is he going to cause any harm? you couldn’t kill a child- a baby. someone unwilling to make decisions for themselves. your doubts and thoughts caused your ears to start ringing, the drums getting pressure built on them.

“I can sense you have your doubts,” the deep voice makes your body shiver and look down at the bracelet on your wrist. the only thing your father gifted you, a silver band with a mirror attached in the center. he could see what was happening anytime without fail. all mirrors are a portal for his eyes.

“He’s just a boy- what kind of threat does he pose?” you kept your voice low and hushed to not awake the mother of the babe.

“he is a forbidden child, you know what that entails. you’ve seen it with your own eyes the damage they cause, the wars started with unfair advantages. that child will grow into a soldier, cause chaos everywhere he steps and gets good people killed. you know I am right.” each point he made was the same he used before to justify his actions.

“don’t make me do this.” you plead. you’ve never begged before, never spared a life in all your years. but never, have you been sent to kill someone so innocent.

“you dare beg for his life to be spared? I have given you a order, so do it.”  your father snarled. not many times were you under his accusative tone. you could hear his voice echoing through the throne room along with a slam of his hand.

“i have done everything you asked of me,” you sounded so small in defeat, “but I can not do this.”

just like that you were willing to risk everything you have built. a place at your fathers feet, above others. a place to live and thrive. and for what? the answer is when you looked at him there is nothing to defend, nothing but a open book waiting to be filled.

“you don’t have a choice,” he roared through the mirror and you could feel the vibration. “kill him, now.” he demanded as his nails scratched at the chair he seat mighty on.

“after years of faithful service, I obeyed every order and command, I live alone each day in a room filled with people. you may have made me for a weapon to use, to do your job for you but I will no longer be a slave.” for the first time you spoke back.

“one day he will die, but not by my hands.” taking the watch on your hand and slipping it off of you, then letting it fall to the ground. the last thing you see is your father shouting at you, his face grim and frustrated. stomping your foot on the floor you break the glass, the item becomes useless.

glancing over to the babe who looked peaceful and wrapped up in a tight blanket. it’s been forever since you were this close to a baby. as a little girl you wished for a family of your own, only you had a life of a demigod.

but looking at him made you sick to your stomach. a pit of anger for the boy who had cost you everything. the world was his to explore.

you were left with no home, no family to go to. and you had broken a oath. you swore yourself to never fail a quest or go against his wishes but you had, for a son of poseidon?— world must have been coming to a end.

you tried to hate him, you really did. but there was no one left to fight for. the decision was yours to make, his life was worth more then yours could ever be. you left quickly after that, afraid you had been to loud.

and one day, you’ll meet the boy he became.

Taglist: @itzmeme @ravenmedows @maria699669 @purplerose291

[gay-dorito-dust]

Heavily inspired by episode #42 of Wayne’s Family Adventures (title; unbelievable) on Webtoon.

‘Are you sure it’s okay for me to be here?’ You asked skeptically as you blindly followed Jason into the foyer of Wayne Manor, ‘If we get caught, what then?’ You added as you found yourself slowing to a stop at the bottom of the grand staircase that loomed over you; reinforcing your unease towards your current situation.

‘Darlin’ Jason starts, placing his hands upon your shoulders, squeezing them reassuringly as he softly smiled. ‘Nobody’s else is here besides maybe Bruce and Alfred,’ Jason then paused before making a face, ‘and maybe the likes of Damien and Tim but that’s neither here or there as they and Bruce tend to keep to themselves and besides,’ He adds as he pulls away to continue walking. ‘I’m pretty sure if we were to get caught, I’d get most of the shit for it for dragging an unwilling participant into my shenanigans…or something along those lines.’ Jason then looks over at you to shoot you yet another smile that you’ve come to find immense comfort in. ‘So don’t sweat it so much sweetheart, okay?’

Just as you were about to reply, yours and Jason’s eyes immediately darted towards the staircase, where Bruce came into view atop of a bright red skateboard that Jason was almost certain was Tim’s, completely oblivious to the fact that he had garnered an audience of two at the bottom of the staircase; just as he took a moment of his time to feel nothing but pride for himself with his murmur of ‘Yep, still got it.’ However what Bruce failed to to take in account was you and Jason’s presence because as soon as he had lifted his gaze of off the skateboard tucked under his arm, they immediately locked onto you and Jason as his body instinctively straightened up out of etiquette.

He wasn’t made aware that Jason would be bringing someone to the manor -and unannounced no less- but it was obvious from the way the male stood closely next to you, to the point where he could clearly see the back of your hands brushing against one another’s from where he was standing, where he then caught sight of Jason taking the initiative and intertwining his hand with yours. It wasn’t until then and only then did Bruce feel the need to get to know you, when unfortunately for him and to your shock and horror, he made a vital mistake and misstepped and before long the billionaire found himself careening into the floor face first in-front of your feet, whereas the skateboard was lying away aways from his body.

‘Oh my god are you okay Mr Wayne sir?!’ You said petrified whilst Jason was fighting tooth and nail to not burst out laughing right then and there with how hard he was bitting his bottom lip. Sure he was in it ally concerned at first but knew firsthand that Bruce had dealt with a lot worse injuries then a trip down the staircase but remained as close lipped as he could to remain in your good graces. ‘Not. A. Single. Word. Out. Of. You. Understood.’ Bruce groaned as he pointed at Jason without having the need to look up from the floor, was it embarrassment? Perhaps. Did he feel like looking at either of you in the face after a display like that? No. Not really. Jason snickered as he crossed his heart with a finger, ‘wouldn’t dream of it.’ He promised before looking over at you, ‘neither of us will mention what has happened tonight if it’s worth saving what pride you have leftover, right y/n?’

‘Right!’ You exclaimed before toning it down a notch, ‘this is all in the past as far as I’m aware…but it’s nice to meet you Mr Wayne.’ You trailed off, uncertain as of where to go from here. ‘Likewise, had I known prior that Jason was going to be bringing you over to the manor I would’ve wished for things to go a little differently. I apologise for having you…see all that.’ Bruce says and you couldn’t help but smile. ‘If it means anything,’ you began, ‘I thought you looked pretty cool on that skateboard.’ You admitted as Jason nudged you in the side, whispering. ‘Don’t stoke his ego, he gets that enough all ready and at this point I don’t know much much bigger it’ll get before it bursts.’

‘I heard that Jason, so for that why don’t you go and get Alfred.’ Bruce says and the male next to you groans, just about ready to drag you along with him when Bruce speaks again. ‘Leave your friend here, I wish to at least get to know them whilst you’re searching.’ Jason groans again before pressing a kiss to your forehead and squeezing your hand before letting go as he wanders into what you could only assume as the living room or a close equivalent before settling briefly to look back at you again. ‘See you soon sweetheart. Don’t you go missing me too much now yeah?’ He winks.

‘Jason.’

‘Yeah?’

‘Stop flirting and go get Alfred.’

‘Alright. I’m going.’

[the-fiction-witch]

House Of Christmas

Media - House Of The Dragon AU Character - Gwayne Hightower Couple - Gwayne X Reader Reader - NONE Rating - 12 Word Count - 978

Fictional Advent Day One

Gwayne yawned a little, feeling the fatigue of the long drive settling in. He tapped his fingers against the steering wheel, the rhythmic drumming a distraction from the monotonous journey. He longed for just another sip of coffee, but his last cup was long empty, and he highly doubted his ability to get a decent one within a good twenty miles. The snow fluttered down outside his small car, creating a mesmerizing dance as the delicate flakes landed on the windshield and melted away. The radio played another remix of the same four Christmas songs that had been playing since Gwayne was sixteen, with the occasional squeak of the windscreen wipers cutting through the music.

As he pulled the car up to the tall house, Gwayne found himself the first one there. He happily took the chance to park up in front of the double garage.

Gwayne sighed, taking a moment to clear his mind and force on a smile before he climbed out of the car. He quickly made his way to the trunk, the cold air nipping at his cheeks as he retrieved his bag and tossed it over his shoulder. He jumped in surprise as he saw Daeron standing beside him,

“Ah!” He gasped, “Here you go kiddo.” he said handing Daeron his bag from the trunk,

“You forgot I was in the car didn’t you?” Daeron asked pulling out his headphones with his guitar on his back,

“No, I did not, you were just very quiet I assumed you were asleep and didn’t want to wake you,” Gwayne smiled doing his best to lie given he had completely forgotten he had Daeron in the car with him. “Come on then let’s go see the family,” He cooed,

“Must we?” Daeron sighed,

“I’m afraid we must yes.” Gwayne nodded,

The two headed up to the door and knocked on the dark silver knocker in the centre of the perfectly decorated wreath.

The door soon opened revealing Alicent in her long green dress, knitted cardigan and a red and white striped apron.

“Daeron. My darling.” She immediately wrapped her arms around the unwilling boy,

“Hi Mom.” He grunted out,

“Ohh my darling, I have missed you,” she caressed his face softly, “Go on put your things in your room.” She cooed pushing him gently to the stairs,

“Greetings sister,” Gwayne smiled,

“Hello Gwayne,” She softly smiled giving him a hug,

“Good to see you,” He smiled, “But uhh coffee?”

“In the kitchen,” She playfully rolled her eyes before heading to the very cluttered kitchen herself, heading back to the island where she was working on preparing very watered-down mocktails in a pitcher.

Gwayne followed her making a beeline for the coffee machine pouring himself one and trying not to grimace as he sipped it. “You seem uhh…” he began,

But Alicent met his eyes with a glare,

“Sorry.” He chuckled as he opened the stocked fridge, “Holy -”

“Language.”

“Did you build a Costco in your fridge?”

“Talysa did it all before she left for home.”

“You do not pay that girl enough,” He chuckled, “So what is the arrangement then I got kinda lost in the group chat.”

“I did send out an email.”

“And I failed to read it so…”

“Since Aegon moved up into Daeron’s attic room, they will both be in there.”

“Right.”

“As well as Aemond, Luke and Jace.”

“...Are they all going to fit up there?”

“There are two king-size beds and a sofa bed I am sure the boys will be fine.” She says,

“And your room?”

“Myself of course, as well as Jaehaerys and Jaehaera.”

“Can’t they just stay in Heleana’s room?”

“They usually do but I thought I’d take them, cause then the twins can share Heleana’s room.”

“Makes sense I guess.” Gwayne nodded, “What about Aemond’s-”

“I gave up my room.” Aemond spoke up having appeared in the kitchen as tall and imposing as usual, “Mummy deemed it necessary so I was more than willing to.”

“Yes thank you Aemond,” Alicent nodded,

“Hey Aemond, how’s your eye doing?” Gwayne smiled,

“I am well.” He snapped back with a glare, before he took an apple and headed back to the living room,

“So who’s going in his room?”

“Rhaynera and Harwin.”

“Right, Okay… The ground floor room?”

“Usual it’s Otto but he decided he would give up his room and go down into the basement with Viserys, leaving the ground floor room for Daemon and Leana,”

“Cause you think he’s gonna get drunk and punch the stairs again?”

“Leana is pregnant I was being considerate.” Alicent snapped,

"Okay, Okay just asking," Gwayne said as he refilled his coffee for the second time. "And I?"

"The den or the couch your choice."

"I'll take the den. I'll go see Dad." With his coffee in hand, he made his way to the impeccably decorated living room, taking in the festive atmosphere. "My god, it's like a set," he muttered to himself as he leaned on the back of the sofa where Otto and Viserys were engrossed in a conversation, the classic movie 'It's a Wonderful Life' playing on the TV in the background. The children were running around with excitement for Christmas, their laughter filling the air. Heleana sat at the window, gazing at the snow-covered landscape outside, lost in thought. Meanwhile, Aemond sat at the kitchen table, meticulously peeling an apple with a knife. "Hey, Dad," Gwayne greeted as he entered the room.

“Ohh hello Gwayne, I thought you’d gotten lost out on those roads.” Otto laughed,

“Yeah well snow, you know what it does to people.” He chuckled,

“Rhaynera will be here in ten minutes,” Helean a spoke up,

“Ummm she is a mystery… however do you always guess these things, my dear?” Viserys asked,

“Jace texted me.” She answered,

Gwayne chuckled having another sip of coffee as Alicent entered drying off her hands,

“Aemond where’s your brother?” 

[daisystwistedgarden]

a/n: heavily inspired by "i look in people's windows"-- aka, my fav holiday song atp

riddle rosehearts looks in people's windows.

the thick layer of snow covering sage's island is a leaden blanket upon the sounds of the evening, making the already half-empty street seem more barren than he expected. his boots crunch with each step as he trots along the sidewalk alone. puffs of his breath curl from his lips in the frigid air. each breath fogs up his glasses-- his first winter with them, after his dormmates scolded him for stubbornly refusing to acknowledge how his vision had started to fail him-- and he wipes at them, resigned to a half-blurry walk back to campus.

the island is quiet. most everyone is home for winter break. tonight is christmas eve. not even the staff remain on the island, leaving a smattering of students with no plans to linger in the dorms. riddle holds his head high as he volunteers to stay and do his rounds to make sure everyone left is safe over the break-- maybe if he keeps his eyes forward, he can avoid the sideways glances from his peers who know why he's alone for the holiday.

it all happened so fast. something welled up inside of him one evening, like a cancer or poison or hope, a defiance in which he confronted his mother about his dreams to pursue law. it was the first time he found himself wholly unreasonable when talking to his mother, unwilling to hear her try to force him to pursue whatever life plan she'd laid out in front of him. rebellion was satisfying. a weight had been lifted off of his chest as he was finally true to himself, his desires for the future.

he was cut off by his mother before the sun rose.

his first holiday alone feels hollow. it was to be expected, he supposed, but the awkward shame doesn't stop gathering in his throat just because he knew it was coming. the pitying glances feel like flames licking at his heels. he hates this feeling. the holidays had never been all that enjoyable growing up-- stiff, unemotional, just like the rest of his upbringing-- but at least he had a home to return to then.

christmas lights twinkle from houses lining the street on his way back to campus. the strawberry tart in his bag was a small treat to make the holiday special, but it felt heavy and awkward in the paper bag tucked under his arm, like a white flag of surrender. dessert for one. a signal that someone will wake up alone, celebrate alone, as the year draws to a close.

riddle's eyes catch movement in an open window. the curtains are pulled back, revealing a group gathering around a dining table. all at once, the heartache of the past few months begins to hit.

you went home. your home. some foreign land he'd never heard of, completely removed from twisted wonderland. he hears your voice when he's alone, the quivers and catches as your said your goodbyes on a loop as he makes tea or studies in the library. you disappeared into the mirror. alone. never to be heard from again. he watched his underclassmen put on a brave face, thinking to himself about how pitiful they looked with glossy eyes and twisted grimaces-- hypocritical, knowing he must look the same.

you're a staple in his thoughts. the magicless prefect, back in their magicless world, reunited with friends and family after you were whisked away into an unfamiliar world. are you happy? healthy? do you miss the life you had? in his fantasies, you yearn to return to the way things were, to wake up one morning in your bedroom in ramshackle and trot across campus with that same aloof look he'd come to recognize you for. you'd be home.

the group around the table continues with their lighthearted chatter trapped behind the icy window pane. riddle's heart thumps against his chest. he doesn't even realize he has stilled where he stands, staring hard into a stranger's home like some deranged weirdo.

what if it was possible to see you again?

he grasps at the thought so hard that the tart in hand is unknowingly squished in a moment of fervor. his mind projects the image of you on these strangers. maybe you'd come into view with a wine glass in hand, laughing over some joke he can't hear and enjoying the smell of dinner cooking in someone's oven nearby. a christmas party in full swing, yet you'd peer outside, fuzzy from the liquor and missing someone, to spot a familiar redhead just outside with foggy glasses and the most intense stare you've ever seen.

what if your eyes looked up and met his one more time?

a/n two: happy holidays to anyone who might be on their own this christmas. may your day be peaceful and full of little joys that make the day special in its own way <3

[v3nusxsky]

best friends mom!emily prentiss and reader. where readers bsf invites her to join their vacation for winter break and r accepts not knowing that emily was her best friends mom that she has been fucking for weeks. a few days there, r decides to go to in the hot tub, emily joins after without thinking. emily and r has unbearable tension so they fuck in the hot tub while emily’s ex husband and r’s best friend are out skiing.

- 🐦

MILF!18+

*Authors note~ I love the Emily prompts so much and I missed writing for my favourite lady*

Trigger warnings~ mommy kink semi public sex, cheating milf Emily x 21 year old reader

Prompt~ see ask^^^^

Delilah happened to be your best friend of 2 years, you'd met at college and instantly became thicker than thieves. For anyone who didn't know your story, it appeared you'd been friends for years. Yet realistically you didn't know each others family or home towns, you knew each others college lives inside and out. Delilah mentioned a family vacation she was being taken on and allowed a plus one, which was going to be her ex boyfriend, but the key word there was Ex. So it had all been payed for, she offered you to join in, knowing you'd been swept up in meeting the mystery girl, you'd return covered in love bits and satisfied for a few days. The cycle would repeat but you refused to divulge much information, only offering her gender and saying she's older, but god damn amazing in bed. So the break would do you the world of good.

That was how you found yourself and your best friend driving up to the cabin. A skiing holiday. Both singling obnoxiously loud to a special playlist of all your favourites. The emotional response would change from breakups to sexy to sad to happy and in love, a true mix but all of them loved by you both. When you arrived at the cabin you got all settled in your room before Delilah's dad and step mother arrived.

The shock of your life came when you saw your secret lover stood next to the man Delilah addressed as dad. "Emily" she nodded at your secret lover and that's when your eyes met, she was just as shocked to see you here too. Neither of before realised you were talking of the same girl. Delilah. You knew her as li and Emily addressed her as Delilah, so truly it was understandable how one didn't connect the two. Emily of course told you of her failing arranged marriage, her mother unwilling to accept that Emily was Lesbian so she arranged the marriage with a wealthy man, it made her look good so what was Emily's happiness to her?

With a nervous hi to both adults you began to listen in to what was going on. Delilah and her dad wanting to hit the slope as soon as possible, Emily hoping to stay back at the cabin maybe get a little nap in. So they were completely divided which meant they turned to you. "Uh um I could stay here with Emily? I could do with a nap, I'll hit the slopes tomorrow with you li?" You murmured hoping it would be okay.

Soon enough it had been decided li and her dad would hit the slopes and you and Emily would hang back here. As soon as they both left, Emily made her way to where you were staying, "that's your li?" She murmured as her eyes raked over your body. "You have a step daughter and a mommy kink em?" You teased watching as she smiled and came closer to you to steal a kiss. "Shut up princess you have no problem with calling me mommy when I'm attending to that pretty pussy of yours" she murmured against your lips before shoving you against the wall, the moment your back connected with the wall you let out a ridiculously loud moan. "Now now princess don't scream too loud or we will get caught" she teased before removing herself from you, "get a swim suit on, there's a hot tub and Im sure you'd hate to leave mommy all alone in there" she purred adding a quick swat to your bottom before heading to change.

By the time you had changed, Emily had already found herself in the hot tub, her burgundy swim sit hardly containing her plentiful boobs from spilling out over the cups. Her head lolled back in relaxation as the steam rose hitting cold air. "Mommy?" You whimpered as your need clouded your mind. It had been way too long since you'd had your lips on her pert buds, or lapping at her slick folds, hell you missed being dicked down by her strap. You missed your mommy and here and now with her like that, you just had to have her. "Join me princess" she murmured not even bothering to open her eyes as you scurried to join her.

The water was warm and you couldn't help but moan slightly as it washed over your skin, taking a seat next to Emily. "Now now princess you know mommy likes you on her lap" she murmured causing you to now straddle her lap. "Hello pretty girl" she murmured before kissing you hard enough to make your toes curl. "Mommy" you whined rolling your hips, only to find out she's packing.

"Mommy need you" you whined into her ear. "Princess it's been a few days since we you've had mommy, such a needy little slut aren't you?" She murmured before freeing her strap. "Gonna ride me like a good girl" she demanded really before slipping the binki bottom material to the side before allowing you to sink onto the faux dick.

"Oh mommy, fuck yes more" you whimpered eyes rolling back your head as you felt her hit that spot inside you only she could find. "Come on baby. Let mommy use that pretty pussy of yours" she murmured and you began to bounce on the strap. The hot tub jets adding bubbles to hide what was going on, "mommy mommy fuck want bed" you murmured in coherently. Quickly hoping off her strap you stumbled from the hot tube and to the bedroom you were staying in. Emily got on your heels.

Immediately you were bent over the bed, strap entering your core once more, this time pace being ruthless and erratic, "fuck princess feel so good. Take it. Take mommys cock. Fuck squeezing me so good baby" she moaned as to simply laid there taking the brutal assault, murmuring incoherent words and pleads. "Mommy! Love you mommy mommy please" you whimpered, "gonna cum" you warned. "That's it princess come for me. That's it good girl"

Emily fucked you through your orgasm before slipping from your core and moving to kiss you, "oh princess this holiday is going to be so much fun, now go clean up and look busy they'll be back soon, I love you princess" she murmured before leaving the room to freshen up.

Word count~ 1188

[sayakxmi]

Some ideas for V3 as Remanants of Despair* under the cut, cuz it's prolly gonna be rambly.

Gonna preface it all by saying that some stuff will likely be inspired by in fact by Buttercup_ghost if not just downright borrowed, bc their takes are great (fully recomending reading the fic), but I'm also trying to add my own spin to it.

Another thing is that I like the idea of V3 Remanants being delusional/convinced they're doing the right thing. They all gave me very strong self-righteous vibes, and it's a recipe for disaster. Like, class 77 are more "burning the world down to burn it" while 79 (V3) are like "gotta burn it/purge it to make it into a better place". Like, Junko specifically used the fact that they are naive and view themselves as good people against them.

Shuichi Saihara

Ok, so first of all - SAWhara? Amazing, spectuacular, never been done before, full credit to Buttercup_ghost bc I love this idea so much. But I kinda like the idea of Despair!Saihara being some kind of a harbinger of truth if you get me. He sort of is one in the game, but there he is gentle and unwilling, but as a Despair, he has none of that kindness he's occassionally willing to give to the culprits. No secrets are safe around him, he will dig it all out to cause strife and despair. Unless, of course, you can actually overcome it. In that case, you have a chance of surviving. He probably doesn't view it as truth ruining people's lives but the lies they'd told to hide it earlier.

Also, again from Buttercup_ghost, but the idea of Junko getting to Shuichi first makes just so much sense. The two best picks are either Shuichi or Kokichi, but I feel like they also cancel each other. They're both capable of falling, but also they're both capable of standing their grounds if others fall first. The difference is that Shuichi is liked and can get Junko close to others, while Kokichi is alone and he'll always be, so getting through him first is a shot in the knee kinda, bc others won't be as trusting as they would've been if you met literally anybody else first, F. Plus, there's a chance of using that loneliness against him later to make him fall, so it makes sense that way, too.

Kaede Akamatsu

It's like semi-borrowed from in fact (it's faster to write the fic titile than the author's, so I'll be doing that from now on), but only semi bc it's something I probably would have come up to myself even without reading it, like, girl decides to take the one for the team & kill somebody, hoping the person that dies will be the one that "deseved" that/was the real enemy, and it's similar here. Some people are Evil and they need to Die.

Rantaro Amami

Something something, failing your family will get you in trouble, that's also why one of the first people he kills are his own parents. I mean, you lost 12 daughters, by now you should have found at least one, you're rich and all that, you can afford it, but apparently it's only Rantaro who cares enough to involve a detective I guess? But, yeah, abusers of all kinds are the targets, neglectful parents etc etc. You get the idea. It sounds ok in paper, but the definition of abuse in his eyes is kind of unclear, so if you beat up your kid he'll be after you, and you can also just have a nasty argument with your spouse, and then you won't have a spouse, so. And, again, the point of V3 as RoD is that they are doing what they believe to be right, but they have sekwed up perception of right and wrong and zero limits.

K1-B0

Something we kinda forget about Kiibou is that he canonically looks down on Shuichi, like, bro just tells him he saw him as beneath him in their last FTE, and only changed his mind after some time. MAN. But, anyway, Despair!Kiibou isn't trying to be perceived as like humans or anything of this sort, I mean, why would he put himself on equal grounds with some people (derogatory)? He's so much better than them! He's a robot, he's smarter, he's stronger, he simply knows best. And people better recognize that or they'll get burned to crisps. I can also see him perceiving himself as somebody who should make the law (a nod to all that lawsuit things), he kinda goes dictator mode I guess. Fuck the three laws of robotics.

Gonta Gokuhara

Straight up stealing from in fact, bc Gonta going around mercy killing people who are "least likely to survive" is peak. Also love him not considering the rest of his class his friends anymore (save for Kokichi, but we'll get to it later).

Angie Yonaga

Again, in fact, Angie believing that Junko is her god makes sense to me. Grl started a cult probably, so first half of chapter 3, but there's more blood, I guess.

Tenko Chabashira

Definitely one of the more difficult ones to turn into a Despair, but I can sorta see her misandry spiking up. My idea is kinda that since Shuichi, a degenerate male, brought Junko to them, which put Himiko and other girls in danger, she straight up blamed him for what happened, and got radicalized over time. Though, admittedly, Despair!Tenko is a subject to change if I come up with something better.

Himiko Yumeno

Chapter 2 body discovery, except she's doing it on purpose. Himiko Yumeno, Blood is Magic. Maybe she embraces the "evil witch" archetype, too. Nobody will question her status as a mage if they're dead. I like where I'm going with it, but I'm struggling to put it into words, I hope you get the idea.

Miu Iruma

I tried to think of something, and against myself I ended up kinda agreeing with in fact again, oh well. It just makes a lot of sense for her to turn into a Despair out of paranoia - get them before they get you, y'know? But it's Miu, so her ego has to be involved somehow. It's a mix, then, she's afraid of everything, but also wants the world to acknowledge her genius and hotness, so if she has to blast some people into fractions, she will.

Korekiyo Shinguji

Listen he was like 16 in the game how tf he managed to not only kill almost 100 women, but also somehow not be caught. Bro isn't exactly the definition of subtle appearance-wise. He's supcious as hell, actually. And for that reason, again, sadly, in fact went into this direction, and so am I. I told you the author's takes were great.

Ryouma Hoshi

Aaaand in fact isn't over. It was awfully simple with him - he has nothing left to lose, so Junko gets him to care about her, and he doesn't care what happens to the rest of the world.

Kirumi Toujo

I'm not 100% sure about it, but I'm kind of vibing with that backstory of hers, that she once served somebody so well that person became unable to do their job, and her opting to do just that, because everybody else is fucking incompetent compared to her, and she deserves far more appreciation. She's resentful, and she'll smile and bow politely and ruin her employers' lives from the inside, showing them they're nothing in comparison.

Tsumugi Shirogane

She's a tricky one, but I can imagine Junko making her recognize her "true potential" or something. She's likely the one who idealizes Junko the most out of everybody, and I can see it as somewhat similar to the Mikan situation, which, oof. She gives Tsumugi all the attention she could possibly ask for, while for the rest of the world she might as well not exist, and she roams it in various costumes, doing whatever she pleases and avoiding responsibility. She's similar to Impostor in a way, but I'd say their difference is that Tsumugi can copy only some general stuff, mostly visually, so she can trick people into believing she's somebody else only for a little bit, while Impostor is so good they could live somebody's life for years and nobody would question it too hard unless they and the original were literally in the same room, and also Impostor can learn their skillsets. Anyway, I think at her core Tsumugi just feels worthless, so she becomes anything else for Junko, and when she's dead, her reason for being herself is gone, too - nobody cares about some Plain Jane, so she wants to become the next Junko to feel the void something something.

Kaito Momota

I'm really entertaining the idea of him just embracing the worst parts of himself - he believes himself to be the hero, the main character, the chosen one, and he requires others to recognize that. He pulls a vigilante, probably, but, as usual in Despair!V3, his view of who is and who isn't a criminal is skewed. But it doesn't matter, because he's never wrong in his judgement. He knows best who desevres or doesn't deserve to live, and he takes all the credit for putting the ones who don't into their grave.

Maki Harukawa

And who else does Kaito take the credit from if not the Ultimate Assassin herself? Ngl, they give me the vibe of Fuyuhiko and Peko. Kaito's the hero, and Maki's his sidekick, his weapon. Her hands can never be clean, but she can use them to make the world a better place by getting rid of all the filth. And she trusts Kaito's judgement, so if he tells her to kill somebody, they'll be dead.

*Kokichi Ouma

In fact gets the credit for making me realize things can be happening in the same universe, and also that V3 can be the ones responsible for what happens to him. Kokichi isn't a Remanant, he essentially takes Chiaki's role. He is by no means his class' hope, but he sure af won't let anybody touch them (well, an attempt was made). I've mentioned by Shuichi that best options would have been either to start with him or Kokichi, and yeah. Kokichi absolutelu could become Despair under the right circumstances, anybody could, but Junko made her choice, and while it was logical, it also meant Kokichi will not fall to her. He was recognized by HPA as the Ultimate Supreme Leader for a reason. Nobody touches his people and gets away with it (whoops, she did). Bro went through a Chiaki-style execution, except he reaches his class who weren't as friendly to him as Chiaki's would've been. By which I mean they toruterd him to near death. Like, I have specifically ideas for Kiibou burning his wrists, making the hand-shaped scars resemble cuffs (punishment for all the robophobia, Kiibou doesn't need the human laws to do things for him, he can judge crimes himself), Gonta knocking him out, bc he wanted Kokichi not to be awake to experience any of that, and at some point when Kokichi looks at Shuichi, Shuichi ends up stabbing him in the eye. RIP.

In the good route, both him and Chiaki survive, btw. Very long story would be that Chiaki, Nagito and Kokichi were friends in HPA, doing some investigating on Kamukura Project and Junko, and for Reasons Nagito was suspended for a while, so he wasn't there when Junko was getting to his classmates, blah blah, Kokichi tells him to go where his classmates went (Chiaki's execution place), bc he has to go after his own to safety or sth (even tells him about DICE in case something happens to him, bc he has a Plan, but no plan is 100% cerain to be succesful), so Nagito gets there when she's still alive if barely, Kamukura arrives, Nagito gets him to help Chiaki anyway. Kokichi's execution happens some time later, and Nagito and Chiaki find out and get to him when he's already like 90% in the grave & thanks to Kamukura he survives.

Bad route has them not get to Kokichi on time, and also at some point both Nagito and Chiak die, so they're both AIs in the simulation, long story.

[heian-era-housewife]

Going North

This is not a fic. But it is a story. My story. Or at least, part of it.

When I started this blog I wanted to maintain as much anonymity as possible. Six months in and here I find myself publicly journaling my most guarded secrets. Funny how things change.

Warnings: ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Please proceed with caution. I have done my best to put the appropriate tw/cw tags in place, but be aware this post mentions nonconsensual sex, SA, suicide, mental health, mental illness, grief, and loss.

I'm writing to you from the depths of a very severe depressive episode and hoping that, in doing so, I may start to find my way out.

So...where do I begin?

For those who don't know I am, regrettably, American. This election has affected me more profoundly than I could ever have imagined.

I recently discovered that my entire family, including my parents- who have always been my best friends, voted for the man who represents everything I reject. Everything I despise.

This comes during a time I find myself exploring and redefining my gender identity. During a time where the healthcare system has repeatedly failed me in treatment and diagnosis of a reproductive condition. During a time when I am learning that ectopic pregnancy is a potentially fatal reality for me. While living in a state where abortion and life-saving reproductive care have been made illegal.

I was 13 the first time I was raped. With 8 months of continuous and repeated rape and sexual assault to follow. The only person I told was my family doctor. A Christian. Who told me sexual activity was an act against God. I never spoke of it again.

Not until I was 18 and had my first "real boyfriend". In explaining why I wanted to wait to be intimate, I told him my story, unaware he would weaponize it. Once again I found myself an unwilling participant in an act called "love". Only this time it was years, not months. The day I escaped I was punched in the face and thrown down the stairs. I still have a scar on my leg from fleeing my boyfriend assailant.

I ran to the safest person I knew. A friend from high school. A kind and gentle person. Someone who, in time, would show me that love and intimacy can exist in a non-toxic capacity. And though our eventual relationship would come to end in mutual respect as he came to explore his own sexuality and gender identity, I still credit him with playing a role in saving me.

Unfortunately, I was unable to return the favor when, just two months ago, he took his own life on the eve of his 30th birthday. I can't say for certain why he chose to end his journey, but I can only imagine that his race as a POC and sexuality were attributing factors as we stare down a future of continued systemic hate and bigotry.

In some ways, I still consider myself lucky. I never became pregnant. I never lost hope in finding love. I am married to a wonderful man who supports my every endeavor. His kindness is unrivaled, and his empathy knows no bounds. He meets me in my darkest places. He reminds me why I must continue to fight- to live. Even on the days I no longer want to...

And now, with the recent election, and the terrifying days ahead, I can't help but feel sometimes that it really is me and him against the world.

My family has chosen to stand behind a man who promised to lower the price of eggs, while creating a country wherein my life and those of countless other are at risk. Where it seems our validity as human beings is in question.

I am not even sure how I am supposed to continue a normal job, when every waking moment I am revisited by the traumas of my past with people shouting "Your body, my choice". Or fearing that another friend may take their life in the wake of the hatred that is blooming here.

I miss my parents. I used to call them every day. Now I am unsure how to even speak with them.

I am unsure of a lot of things.

In large part thanks to friends I have made here, I have begun the process of seeking further psychological support and evaluation.

Moving forward, I also plan to put more time and energy into my art. I am currently seeking ways to support myself financially in a work-from-home capacity as my deteriorating mental health is making working a regular job nearly impossible at the moment.

I'd like to remain active on this blog and continue building friendships over the love of JJK- something that, as silly as it is, brings me so much joy.

I hope that, if you've read this far, you'll continue this journey with me. And if you have read this far, thank you so much for being part of my life, sharing in my memories, my grief, my struggles. Thank you for listening to this story. Hopefully the next few I post will be more cheerful, and fictional, of course.

Thank you also to my international friends who have shown so much incredible love and support. You have no idea how much it means to be extended a friendly hand in a time where the world is justifiably furious with and untrusting of Americans.

I want to fight for a brighter future. I want to see what happens if we don't give up. I am determined to find peace and to one day look back on this post and be glad I chose to go North.

With love and gratitude,

Yuri 🩷

[thevelaryons]

As proud a man as Corlys is, it makes sense that he would be completely unwilling to bend the knee when Alicent demands it of him, at the time that he is a prisoner. And being the opportunist that he is, Corlys will of course attempt to turn the situation to his advantage by negotiating in favor of his allies/family.

Behind the walls of the Red Keep, the Dowager Queen Alicent and Lord Larys Strong had offered the Sea Snake his freedom, a full pardon for his treasons, and a place on the king’s small council if he would bend his knee to Aegon II as his king and deliver them the swords and sails of Driftmark. The old man had proved to be surprisingly intractable, however. “My knees are old and stiff and do not bend easily,” Lord Corlys responded, before setting forth terms of his own. He wanted pardons not only for himself, but for all those who had fought for Queen Rhaenyra, and demanded further that Aegon the Younger be given Princess Jaehaera’s hand in marriage, so the two of them might jointly be proclaimed King Aegon’s heirs. “The realm has been split asunder,” he said. “We must needs join it back together.” Lord Baratheon’s daughters did not interest him, but he wanted Lady Baela freed at once.

Queen Alicent was outraged by Lord Velaryon’s “arrogance,” Munkun tells us.

— Fire & Blood, The Dying of the Dragons

When Corlys finally does bend the knee, it is primarily for Baela’s sake. Of course, he’s also seeking peace for the realm overall but at the centre of it is concern for his granddaughter. There’s no doubt about that because the very next paragraph tells us exactly what Corlys’ submission has averted: Baela’s death.

The next day Lord Corlys Velaryon, the Sea Snake, knelt before Queen Alicent as she sat upon the lower steps of the Iron Throne, as proxy for her son, and there pledged the king his loyalty and that of his house. Before the eyes of gods and men, the Queen Dowager granted him and his a royal pardon, and restored him to his old place on the small council, as admiral and master of ships. Ravens went forth to Driftmark and Dragonstone to announce the accord…and not a day too soon, for they found young Alyn Velaryon gathering his ships for an attack on Dragonstone, and King Aegon II preparing once again to behead his cousin Baela.

— Fire & Blood, The Dying of the Dragons

His enemies surely realized what Baela means to him because they start using threats against her in order to get Corlys to act. Ironically enough, that’s also a death sentence for Aegon because Corlys does not tolerate such things.

As the knight took his leave, the king turned to Corlys Velaryon. “Tell your bastard to fight bravely, my lord. If he fails me, if any of these Braavosi pass the Gullet, your precious Lady Baela shall lose some parts as well.”

The Sea Snake did not plead, or curse, or threaten. He nodded stiffly, rose, and took his leave.

[…]

For Aegon’s day was done, though he had yet to grasp it.

— Fire & Blood, The Dying of the Dragons

He did give Aegon a chance to save himself but Aegon, being the fool that he is, chooses the path of violence that Alicent kept urging. Even on Rhaenyra’s Black Council, Corlys had said to spare Aegon and send him to the Wall and this is the same advice he gives to Aegon when he joins the Green Council.

“Your Grace,” the Sea Snake said, when the rump of the once proud green council had assembled, “you must surrender. The city cannot endure another sack. Save your people and save yourself. If you abdicate in favor of Prince Aegon, he will allow you to take the black and live out your life with honor on the Wall.”

— Fire & Blood, The Dying of the Dragons

“And what of my half-brothers?” Rhaenyra demanded, when the Sea Snake put this plan before her. “What of this false king Aegon, and the kinslayer Aemond? Would you have me pardon them as well, they who stole my throne and slew my sons?”

“Spare them, and send them to the Wall,” Lord Corlys answered. “Let them take the black and live out their lives as men of the Night’s Watch, bound by sacred vows.”

— Fire & Blood, The Dying of the Dragons

Corlys is not a particularly vengeful person and Aegon did kill his wife, yet Corlys was willing to choose a more peaceful resolution to the conflict. So it’s not like it was Corlys’ intention to kill Aegon all along but after Aegon seeks to hurt Baela, Corlys is fully committed to seeing him dead.

Just as Corlys acted to save Baela, she too attempts to save him when he’s about to be executed by Cregan.

Lord Corlys was spared a trial by the machinations of Baela and Rhaena Targaryen, who convinced Aegon to issue an edict restoring to him his offices and honors.

— The World of Ice & Fire, Aegon III

[theliliesofthevalley]

In Another Life ☁️

𓆩𓆪Helaena Targaryen x f!reader

Summary: A bittersweet reunion has y/n and Helaena unfold their feelings for one another.

Category: Fluff, Angst

Y/n had arrived at King's Landing not too long ago to deliver news to the King. It was impossible to send ravens during such a heavy storm, but with Gaelithox's experience flying during storms, Rhaenyra had trusted her daughter instead. Helaena overheard from the guards of y/n's arrival and couldn't help but invite her to her chambers, and who was y/n to say no?

The twins ran wildly around the room as Helaena watched them with attentive eyes. Y/n sat beside her as she watched them giggle, playing with tiny wooden dragons she was sure Aegon had when he was their age. As expected of children, the twins weren't tired at such a late hour, but it didn't bother Helaena as it gave her an excuse to escape her frightening dreams.

Helaena's fingers guide a needle through stretched cloth as the outline of a spider begins to take shape. Y/n was reading one of Helaena's books focused on the study of insects, particularly multi-legged creatures.

Y/n glanced at Helaena's matching light blue nightgown, "light blue suits you better than green."

Helaena remained silent but cracked a soft smile as she gazed at y/n with loving eyes.

the sound of wood clanking breaks their conversation as they look down to see Jaeherys's face wrinkled in frustration. Jaeherys began to wail as Jaehara snatched the toy Balerion from his hands.

"What one has, the other will take... It's natural for people to crave what others have," Helaena motioned at the children.

Y/n set aside the book as she quickly bent down and comforted the little prince before she handed him the other dragon toy, his tears quickly disappearing.

The twins were adorable, taking after Helaena from their features to their gentle demeanor. Helaena was expecting another as her stomach was round with a third child.

"Their dragons have grown far bigger, I've been talking with the dragon keepers and they anticipate that they can be ridden in two to three years," y/n smiled, "they're growing faster than my dragon Gaelithox ever did."

Gaelithox was a rather unusual dragon. Unlike her siblings Jacerys and Lucerys' dragons, Gaelithox tended to be sheepish and unwilling to show herself during the day, preferring to reveal herself at night. Her body was slender and elegant, taking after Caraxes. Her scales shimmered like amethysts under the glimmering moonlight and never failed to amaze the dragon keepers.

Gaelithox and Dreamfyre were inseparable when they were together. Their bodies are often found coiled around one another in one of the many caves of the dragon pit.

"Talking about Gaelithox, do you want to fly with me tomorrow night?" She looked at Helaena. An uneasy expression painted her face as she shook her head to decline her offer.

"I don't want to leave them," she simply stated.

Helaena looked at her children as their laughter filled the room as they took turns re-enacting parts from Aegon's conquest, they were Helaena's jewels, her anchor that made her love this wretched world. Frequent scenes of murder and violence plagued her dreams as she could sense the rising tensions between each side of her family. If she could, she would take her children and fly far away from the horrors brewing within the Targaryen Dynasty.

"There is a beast beneath the boards," Helaena whispered.

Y/n remained silent before nodding, "I understand."

Y/n looked outside the window, the rain subsided to reveal a beautiful starry night, the sounds of King's Landing's streetlife could be heard.

"I'm assuming Aegon won't be back?" y/n asked.

Helaena shook her head, "he prefers his time alone."

Y/n's chest felt heavy as she pitied Helaena's marriage. While she tended to her children, Aegon was never in the picture, always off at whore houses or bars in flea bottom.

Helaena's hand softly overlapped y/n's as she gently gripped it, "Can you sleep with me tonight?" Helaena asked.

Y/n nodded without hesitation, "of course."

Helaena smiled as it reminded her of their younger days when they would spend countless nights together where y/n would silently listen to Helaena describe her dreams and thoughts.

"Children, bedtime," Helaena softly commanded as the children pouted before they set their toys down. Helaena helped them up their beds before tucking them in, not forgetting to stroke their hair before wishing them good night.

Y/n had unbraided her hair, letting her dark brown locks drape over her shoulders, still damp from her rainy journey all the way from Dragonstone. Helaena blew out the candle as she quickly joined her under the sheets before she turned to look at y/n.

"Mother says that you will marry one of Lord Corlys's nephews."

y/n remained silent before nodding, "My mother arranged for it to be done to mend the relationship between Velaryon and Targaryen."

"you don't look happy," Helaena stated. A tear rolled down her cheek as y/n nodded, "I didn't want it to happen."

"You'll... do fine. Though my marriage with Aegon isn't much, I feel like you will find some happiness in it."

"But I don't want to be with anyone, Helaena," y/n shook her head, "I want to be with you."

A tense silence surrounded the both of them before Helaena grasped y/n by the chin and delivered a soft but chaste kiss. It felt like it went on for hours, the sensation of butterflies in their stomachs never settled.

It reminded y/n of the time when they flew together for the first time under the moon's shining embrace, how confident Helaena looked on top of Dreamfyre as their dragons encircled one another. Their laughter filled the skies as y/n swore Helaena looked ethereal. The way the light bounced off of her silver hair and her soft smile, it was an image that remained ingrained in her memory.

As they pulled apart, y/n breathlessly whispered in High Valyrian, "In another life, I wish I could've married you."

"In another life," Helaena repeated as she joined their lips once more.

[letarasstuff]

Borderline Dehydrated

(A/N): This is my second time writing for Star Wars and my first attempt to get a grip on the Mandalorian (writing wise). This is based on my headcanon that Din is borderline dehydrated at any given time. Be nice to me and this fic, I'm ready to bite unwanted haters (critic on the other hand always is welcome)

Summary: Din's older Foundling seems to care more for him than she lets on

Pairing: Din Djarin x Foundling!reader (reader is refered to with she/her pronouns)

Warnings: None (but please let me know, if there is anything)

Wordcount: .7k (she is a cute shorty)

✨Masterlist✨ _____________________________

“Here, for you”, (Y/N) puts down a dish with something akin to a stew on the co-pilot’s seat. Next to Din’s seat she places two bottles of water.

An aura of questions radiates off him, as he watches her pick up the Child from his pram. “Where are you going?” He inquires, confusion evident in his modulated voice. “I’m taking the little one to the hull and eat with him and the Frog Lady dinner. We’ll leave you alone until you come down and tell us you are done. And don’t you dare do it before you drink at least half of what I gave you.” (Y/N) fixes him with a pointed look while cradling the Child to her chest.

“Why?” The Mandalorian simply asks. “Because we went through the desert of Tatooine for several days and I haven’t seen you take a sip of anything during the whole time. I’m sure you are borderline dehydrated at all times. So just fix it and eat the krayt dragon stew and drink some water, ok?” A wee bit of worry is detectable in her voice during the explanation.

Din thanks her as she makes her way to the ladder. “No need to be grateful. I just took the meat Peli already cooked and threw a bunch of other stuff in. Just do me the favor and eat. I don’t want to drag your heavy and sorry ass through the woods or something on a strange planet, just because you collapse from dehydration. I’m doing all of this out of selfish reasons, I want you to know that.”

Both of them know that (Y/N) left her selfishness, something she adapted out of survival during her years as a stray on a backwater planet, long behind. Last, when she threw herself at a Stormtrooper, who tried to shoot Din from behind. Well, luckily the white armored soldiers are not a good shot and that (Y/N)’s brain hasn’t developed a rational sense yet.

“I know”, he replies with a smile audible in his voice, “You are purely acting out of egotistical reasons. Now go and eat, I know that you gave your most recent meal to the Child and if I remember correctly, you haven’t had anything in your belly for as long as I have.” Under his helmet, Din has a smug look on his face.

He can’t describe how much he feels for the foundlings he is caring for. It pains him already thinking about reuniting the Child with the Jedi and then finding survivors of (Y/N)’s species.

During the Empire, her planet was attacked for not surrendering to them. It was an important spot for trading, making it out to be a strategic asset. That’s something the Rebellion saw early on and used it to their advantage. When the chatter about an impending imperial attack grew louder as the Empire were unwilling to leave the innocent civilians out of the war, (Y/N)’s family sent her through a safety pod into the galaxy, hoping that some kind soul will save the child.

That’s all that Din knows about her life before he had found her. Or more like, the Child found her, as she was hiding in a clove of some building. He wandered off while the Mandalorian was negotiating with a merchant. It was like the green creature sensed her distress (which, with today’s knowledge about his powers, he probably did), cooing at the crying girl. When Din found them and realized that there is no one who is willing to take her in, he acted accordingly to his creed.

Just two hours later he regretted it, because he failed to recognize that teenagers in particular are a difficult species to handle. During their first day, he lived through more emotions with (Y/N) than he is able to count on his hands.

Luckily, everything has started falling into place, and now the clan of three is a better than ever team.

And so they continue their quest through the galaxies, looking for the Jedi and another species that probably has been erased.

[voraciousvore]

Giganterra (Chapter 1)

Prologue | Chapter 2

Content Warning: Soft, safe, unwilling vore

Word Count: 2.1k

------ Chapter 1: A Typical Royal Dinner ------

Six years later… 

Crown Prince Ronny, the adult heir to the throne, sat down at his usual spot at the table, on the right-hand side of his father, the king. King Richard claimed his rightful place at the head of the table, and Princess Bianca, the youngest by about two years, sat across from her brother Ronny. The king’s personal guard Ajax, his shadow, stood discreetly off to the side behind his seat, ever watchful. 

Ronny, dour as always, glared at his sister, who stuck her tongue out at him in response. He scoffed superciliously and removed his gloves for dinner, folding them neatly on the table. He was rescued from having to converse with his loathsome family members by the servants, who came in balancing plates loaded with vittles. Ronny sat in a gloomy silence as Chester, the royal food taster, checked each entrée for poison. He curled his lip with mild disgust when he was given his portion: prime rib, sautéed swiss chard, and scalloped potatoes, with a human dressed in a light sauce. 

Bianca had a similar reaction, poking and prodding the tiny woman on her plate with her fork. The woman winced, but stayed silent and didn’t try to run, knowing the consequences of resisting giant royalty would be far more gruesome. “Daddy, when are we going to get more humans? It’s been a while since the last tribute.” 

King Richard wiped his lips daintily with a napkin as he gleefully swallowed the human on his own plate. “Hmmm… it’s been a while, hasn’t it? We are certainly overdue for some fresh meat.” 

The giantess princess perked up. “If so, can you order some little men this time? Pleeeeeease? Ladies are fine and all, but they’re all we ever get, and I want a handsome boy to play with…” She pouted, scraping her fork with an obnoxious screech on her dish. Her human repast covered her ears and grimaced. Ronny rolled his eyes. 

The king gave his daughter a knowing smirk and chuckled lightly. “I’ll see what I can arrange, my darling.” He picked up his knife and cut into his meat, which leaked blood onto his plate. 

Ronny shook his head and dug into his own meal, flicking the human carelessly off his slab of prime rib. He didn’t understand his father’s obsession with tiny maidens, or his sister’s fascination with miniature men. Why couldn’t she be normal for once and content herself with an attractive giant instead? Humans were fine for eating, when he was in the right mood, but otherwise Ronny found them to be gross vermin, clambering around with their wiry legs like bugs. Distracted by his thoughts, he failed to notice his tiny female side dish had crawled off the edge of his plate. He put a bite of meat in his mouth, and his face puckered with detestation.  

“Ugh!” he groaned, spitting the offending meat back onto his dish without concern for decorum. “Nasty!” His face turned purple with rage. “Bring me the royal chef!” he bellowed. The servants scrambled to obey. Soon enough, the obese chef rushed into the dining room, huffing and puffing with the effort. 

“Yes, Your Highness? How may I best serve you?” he asked nervously, wringing his hands and picking at his blond mustache. He was sweating profusely, his skin ruddy with exertion. 

“Bucky!” Ronny roared. “This food isn’t fit to serve to a dog! The meat is cold in the middle and saltier than the sea! Dumping a mountain of salt on such a bland cut doesn’t improve the flavor, you cretin! I’m a prince, and I deserve only the best, not this offensive rubbish!”  

His temper flared as he got worked up into a frenzy. He stood up out of his chair and gesticulated with his hands aggressively. “You’re a sorry excuse for a cook, you worthless piece of shit! Just look at these vegetables! Wilted strings reeking of too much garlic and swimming in watery juices! And these potatoes! Unpalatable texture, lumpy and uneven, tasteless paste! Unacceptable, reprehensible slop!” 

He picked up the plate and hurled it against the wall with all his might, shattering the porcelain and staining the wall and expensive carpeting with juices. The servants hurried forward to clean up the mess in a hush. Nobody was especially surprised by his tantrum: The servants were accustomed to unhinged outbursts from the royal family. Ronny ignored them and continued to verbally berate the chef, who pointedly stared at his feet. Ronny shoved his finger into his fat chest as he ranted in his face, spitting and swearing. After several minutes of screaming at the top of his lungs and frothing at the mouth, Ronny finally cooled down, dismissing the silent chef with a contemptuous wave of his hand. His face changed from pink back to its usual pasty shade. He crossed his arms petulantly and slumped in his chair. 

“Good job, Ronny,” King Richard praised, grinning wide. “Sometimes you need to put the commoners in their place and make them fear you.” He chomped down on a bite of meat, clearly enjoying his meal despite his son’s scathing condemnation of its quality. Ronny shrugged, still scowling. The servants, so inferior to the royals as to be invisible to them, cleaned up his mess in the background. 

Bianca was unperturbed by Ronny venting his spleen, continuing to toy with the human on her plate as she ate the food around her. Eventually, she got bored and lifted the poor woman up by her leg, studying her wriggling with a cold inquisitiveness. She lowered the tiny woman headfirst into her mouth, licking her face and closing her plump lips around her torso before slurping her flailing legs inside with the rest of her body. She sucked on the delicious morsel for a while, shuffling her from one cheek to the other, before sending her off on a trip to her stomach with a hearty gulp. 

She watched as the servants flitted anxiously back to the table, bringing with them a sumptuous feast of roasted partridge and yams for the picky prince. He sulked as the royal food taster sampled each portion and cleared the food for consumption. The servants backed away, sweating nervously as Ronny tasted the partridge. The bratty prince raised an eyebrow and grunted, but didn’t complain. The tension dissipated among the servants and they disappeared into the background again, relieved not to be on the receiving end of another explosive fit. 

“Hey, Ronny, what happened to the human in your food?” Bianca queried.  

Ronny shrugged as he continued to shovel food into his mouth. “Fuck if I know. She probably ended up as a red stain on the wall.” 

King Richard frowned. “What a waste.” He gave Ronny a stern look. The aura in the room subtly changed, as if the air itself chilled. “Don’t squash your humans so carelessly, Ronny. They are valuable, and we can only extract so many without them revolting against us.” 

Ronny stiffened. “Of course, Father,” he mumbled, casting his eyes downward. “I won’t do it again.” The king assumed a milder expression, accepting his words, and the mood lightened again. Ronny repressed a shudder. 

“I never understood why you don’t just conquer the human kingdom, enslave the populace, and farm them,” Bianca remarked, tilting her head. “Wouldn’t that make more sense? Then you can have as many as you want.” 

The king sighed and shook his head. “Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Haven’t you noticed the humans that are here for a long time tend to lose their unique flavor and vitality? That’s because, if they’re not fed and cared for well, and they grow sad, they become frailer, weaker, and less appealing to the palate. That’s why over time we need fresh tributes, and why I usually dispose of them, when they are no longer of any use to us for our personal pleasure.” 

He licked his lips as he finished the last bite of his dinner. “I prefer my humans to be free-range, so to speak, and of high quality. That standard of health isn’t possible if they were all forcibly imprisoned. Happy humans also multiply in greater numbers, which is even better for us. Let them have their silly little kingdom, go about their lives, and exist in blissful ‘freedom.’ As long as they give us our rightful share and don’t complain, I will be content.” 

He inserted his fingers into his pocket and pulled out a small, trembling woman. “Of course, as you know, not all humans go stale! I still have my favorites, like my cute sweet little Millie, now don’t I?” He grinned roguishly and nuzzled her with his nose. 

“Y-yes, of course, Your Majesty! I would never want to disappoint you!” the poor creature squeaked, out of fright rather than affection. Ronny looked away, repulsed by the display. He hated his father’s distasteful perversions and could hardly stand to watch. Bianca stared at him with jealousy, wishing she had a tiny man to kiss and pet and play with. King Richard always exclusively requested maidens as tribute, and she was fed up with his selfishness. She was used to always getting what she wanted, so the fact that she couldn’t have one irritated her to no end. 

The servants cleared the dirty dishes off the table and brought slices of cheesecake for dessert. King Richard removed a small vial from his pocket full of a glowing blue potion and dripped a drop onto Millie’s head. Her face paled with dread as her body absorbed the substance, a magical anti-digestion fluid that would keep her unharmed inside his stomach. He pressed her into the soft dessert with his index finger up to her shoulders. She turned her head away from him, and Ronny spotted quiet tears glistening on her cheeks. The prince switched his attention to his own dessert and ate in silence, ignoring the display.  

King Richard scooped up Millie with his fork and licked the sweet filling off her body, chuckling at her small whines of discomfort. He gently enveloped her in his mouth, humming with delight. After slopping his tongue all over her and sliding her against the inner walls of his teeth, he took another bite of cheesecake and rolled her around with it, sucking it all up with pleasure. He continued in this manner until he finished his entire slice before finally gulping down the small lady. 

Ronny hastened to excuse himself from the table, grabbing up his gloves. As he lifted them, he noticed an abnormal weight inside, caused by a small, shivering lump. He flipped the glove and dumped its mystery contents out on the table, only to discover the food human that he thought he’d thrown across the room was hidden inside. She tumbled out and landed on the hard surface with a splattering of sauce. 

Ronny glared at her, then at his fancy gloves, soiled inside with sauce. “Ugh! Look what you did, you filthy little rat! These gloves are ruined!” He flung the gloves away, his dark eyes flashing as his white-hot wrath returned with a vengeance. The woman’s eyes widened and she cowered before the giant man looming above her like a mountain. She had already narrowly escaped death when he smashed his dinner plate against the wall; she knew what he was capable of with his volatile temper. 

The giant prince slammed his fist on the table next to her, startling her to her feet. Even standing up, she was shorter than his stacked fingers; he could easily crush her in his grasp like an insect. Her legs turned into useless rubber beneath her as she comprehended the futility of resisting and collapsed to the table. Ronny unclenched his fist and grabbed her up, raising her close to his face. 

“Vile, foul worm,” he grumbled as she whimpered helplessly in his hand. “I’ll make you pay for that.” He knew humans hated to be eaten, so he shoved her into his mouth and swallowed her hard, sending her straight to the fleshy prison in his midsection. King Richard grinned with approval as he observed his son. Ronny stormed off in a huff, stomping on his gloves and kicking them to the side on his way out. 

He clomped down one of the many stony corridors of the castle, fuming with irritation. He could feel the human fighting inside his gut as she was jostled about by his rapid steps. That idiotic human deserved her punishment. Those gloves were custom-made, based on the measurements of his hands, and now he’d have to order a new pair from the royal tailor. Such an inconvenience! 

Chapter 2

[einsteinsugly]

December, 1985. Songs From the Big Chair.

"Not every loss is bad. Sometimes, it sets you free." -Unknown

Hyde doesn't know where she is. Frankly, he doesn't give a damn where she is.

Edna hasn't been there for the important milestones. Not for a decade, and in the depths of the past, she was an unwilling participant.

"Participant" is putting it nicely. She was there on the sidelines. She was never cheering him on, but smoking a cigarette. On the good days. On the bad days, she'd shout at him. Hit him.

"You've got my dad's eyes," Edna would angrily hiss, "You have any idea what he did to me?" "He hit you too?" "More than that."

When he was really little, he didn't understand. But it got crystal clear. Not from experience, luckily, but from stories.

"He'd touch me down there." Edna held a cigarette between her spindly fingers, before pressing it down. Using the palm of his hand as an ash tray, and he bit his tongue. All while he screamed on the inside. "And sometimes, he'd do even more than that."

Sometimes, she was descriptive. Sometimes, she wasn't. He understood, and sometimes, he empathized.

But it wasn't his fault he had his grandpa's eyes. He never met the animal, and he didn't like that that animal's blood flowed through his veins.

So he hid, behind the shades. He told himself it was cool, and if there was no context, maybe it seemed like it. A fashion statement, where he hid his emotions. Behind a shade of darkness, and sometimes, behind a dojo of coolness.

Often, the dojo of coolness is still genuine. Flipping off the world seems to be a worthwhile endeavor, sometimes. Forman likes that new Tears For Fears song, and all year, it's been seared into his brain.

So glad we've almost made it So sad they had to fade it Everybody wants to rule the...

For most of his life, the world wanted him to fail. The world was against him. He had shitty parents, a bleak future of nothingness. He was supposed to be a deadbeat dad, an angry trucker, a bitter vagabond. He was destined to pump gas, be part of a biker gang. Sell hard drugs, do hard drugs. Go to prison for life, or even worse.

But then he found the Formans. His found family. He found his adopted parents, his adopted brother. And in their basement, amidst childish revelry, he found a ninety-five pound brunette with pink toenails. The love of his life.

Then, to top it all off, he found his real dad, too. His real dad had money, which helped a lot, but he also found comradery. The real deal. Or whatever Forman calls it.

Now, he's sitting in a hospital room. Sans shades, five years and counting. Those same blue eyes are staring back at him. Wide eyed, innocent. Like he once was, ever so briefly.

He's never going to give his daughter false pretenses. There's no such thing as perfect. Sometimes, the world throws you shit. That's just how it is.

But he's never going throw shit at her, like Edna did. And for Jackie, like Pam did. They're going to protect her from the worst the world has to offer, come hell or high water.

His daughter's name dances on his tongue, as a proud father Bud never was, and he's on cloud nine. "Rebecca."

Jackie grins, from ear to ear. "We're calling her Becca, not Becky. Right, Steven?"

And with a serene smile, he can never break the ties that bind. They're a family, a happy family. Against all the odds.

He affably nods. "Yes, dear."