#nadia my baby you did not deserve any of that

[nevvaraven]

Nadia. Eddie.

[malka-lisitsa]

a message to strike a nerve?

"i was wrong. turns out you aren't my actual mother...."

(nadia)

is she going to be relieved?

Send my character messages that you think will strike a nerve.

Was that supposed to hurt?

Did it hurt?

The doppelganger tilted her head in confusion for a moment, not so much the words Nadia had spoken, but more how she felt about it.

For five hundred years Katherine hadn't been a mother but for a brief 9 months and maybe a year or so now. There were a lot of emotions going through this complex little fox all at once.

In truth, when they first met, this wouldn't have bothered Katherine one bit. She hadn't felt any connection for a while. It wasn't till they'd had several heart to hearts, that katherine had come to understand what Nadia needed was for her to try. For her to get to know her. Slowly Katherine had, she put work in, dealing with her own mixed emotions and the guarded reactions from her daughter.

Now that the dust was settling, this dismissal was starting to feel like that rejection Katherine had been afraid of from the start. She had done what she was asked. She had put work into repairing this. She had stepped forward and up to try and learn how to be a mother for Nadia the way she deserved. Now Nadia was dismissing her?

Snatching that title she pushed on her to begin with? Why? What had Katherine done that was so bad her daughter had disowned her?

Maybe she's right to. Maybe Katherine had this coming the whole time. After all shes not a mother. She was never going to be good at it, maybe Nadia just got tired of meeting her half way. Just another thing Katherine Pierce couldn't measure up to. Is that her father's laughter in the distance? Might as well be. Failure.

She swallows hard and shifts her weight to a stance that screams defensive, and hurt. Anyone who knows Katherine the way Nadia has too by now, knows that shes building her armor. Shutting down emotionally and preparing to hide behind aggression.

"Well. You must be so relieved Nadia. Now you can stop baby sitting me and run off with another homicidal traveler."

[auspicious-manner]

hey!!

i love ur writing!! is there any chance you could do a riff x fem!shorter!bisexual! reader in a modern au? maybe where riff and the reader are friends and their little group is the jets? reader and the jets have a movie night, and riff and the reader get all cuddly as the night progesses?

i hopw this is okay!

wait i actually love this idea sm. i’ve always wanted to write a modern au! thank you for supporting my stories :)

female reader x riff

modern au

warnings: none

Ghosts

•

“Y/N, your friend is here!” Y/N’s mom yelled.

“coming!” Y/N yelled back from upstairs. she finished clipping her hair back and ran down the stairs with her school back pack looped around her shoulders.

she quickly said goodbye to her mom and grabbed a package of pop tarts for the road. she walked out of her front door and saw her best friend riff’s car.

she opened the passenger side and saw a smiling riff.

“it’s about time you got out here,” he said playfully, reversing the car to get out of her driveway.

“do you want me to share my pop tart with you or not?” Y/N asked, resulting in riff frowning before muttering a small “fine” and taking a pop tart from his friend.

every morning before school, riff picked Y/N up. if it weren’t for him, she would have to walk across town to school every day, and he didn’t like to see her walking alone through all types of weather.

the two became friends right from the moment they met in kindergarten. Y/N was playing with blocks when riff came over and, being his typical self, knocked them down. she cried, and riff instantly felt bad. he offered to help her set them up again, amd from then on, they were inseparable.

as the pair reached puberty, riff noticed his feelings for Y/N were beyond just friendship. although he had an undeniable crush on his best friend, he never acted on it. he was happy to simply be her friend, and he didn’t want to ruin that. besides, Y/N always seemed to have her mind set on someone else.

“how are you and… what was her name? nadia?” riff asked as he drove the familiar route to school.

Y/N cringed. “oh, me and nadia? yeah… it’s not going to work.”

riff sighed. “dammit Y/N, i’m sorry,” he replied sadly. “what happened?”

Y/N bit her lip. “i thought it was going well, i really did. we got along well, she liked me, i liked her, and then she ghosted me. out of the blue, with no explanation,” she avoided riff’s concerned glares. “it sucks because i really liked this girl.”

“that’s awful,” he replied back softly. “you didn’t deserve that.”

“i know, tell me about it.”

riff went silent for a moment. “you know what, i have an idea. to cheer you up, lets get together with the guys for a movie night tonight. we can come to my house and eat snacks and binge all of your favorite movies. deal?”

Y/N laughed. “you always know how to make me feel better.”

they arrived at school, and met up with their group in their usual hang out spot, which was in the cafeteria. they found ice, mouthpiece, a-rab, baby john, and tiger waiting for them.

“it’s about time youse showed up!” mouthpiece exclaimed in his thick new york accent.

“we were taking our sweet time,” riff said back, approaching the boys. “and, we had to make a plan for tonight. the girl Y/N was talking to ended up being a grade-A asshole who completely ghosted her, and to make her feel better, we’re having a movie night at my place.”

Y/N felt like crawling into a hole and disappearing. she didn’t want to make more people pity her. “riff, what the hell!” she frantically stated, hiding her face that was turning bright red.

“wait, you got ghosted?” baby john asked sweetly.

“that’s awful,” ice added in the same tone.

“that’s what i said,” riff started, turning to ice. “so, you in fellas?”

they all agreed to the movie night, and although Y/N was excited and thankful for the boys, she couldn’t tell them the real reason her and nadia stopped talking. sure, nadia did ghost her. but a part of her almost felt relieved it didn’t work, because there was someone else she had her eye on. someone she could see herself with more.

the day absolutely flew by, and before she knew it, school was let out and riff was driving her to the store to pick up her favorite snacks.

“what are you thinkin’?” riff asked as they browsed the various snacks.

“hmm… popcorn? and how about gummy bears? we should probably get some chips too, mouthpiece always manages to choke on the popcorn every time he eats it,” Y/N said, mostly talking to herself as she searched the aisles. eventually, she bought all of that and picked out some cookies as well.

they drove back to riff’s, and the boys met them there. riff’s house wasn’t necessarily small, but it wasn’t grand either. it was an average one story home with a two car garage. his parents were almost never home, which gave him more freedom to do what he pleased around the house.

“so, Y/N, why did nadia ghost you?” a-rab asked after they had all gathered around riff’s tv in his living room.

“that’s the whole point of ghosting. they don’t give you a reason why they leave, they just do,” Y/N replied.

a-rab rolled his eyes. Y/N situated herself next to riff on the couch, and the rest of the boys filled in the empty spots around them.

“so, what should we watch first?” tiger asked. riff pulled up netflix on his tv, and turned to Y/N.

“Y/N, what do you think?”

she thought about her options. “how about… oh, i know. let’s watch spider-man.”

the boys turned to look at her. “spider-man? really?” ice asked.

Y/N frowned. “you guys asked me what i wanted to watch!”

“pick something else,” tiger suggested.

“fine. let’s watch mean girls.”

riff laughed. “that’s more like it.”

he turned the movie on, and the group of friends laughed and quoted the movie as it went on. when it finished, the winter sun was setting early at about five o’clock.

“can i choose the next movie?” riff asked. Y/N nodded, and he browsed his options.

“since it’s getting dark, how about a scary movie?” riff asked the group. the boys nodded and made sounds of agreement, and Y/N sighed.

“you know i don’t like scary movies,” she told him.

“don’t worry about it, i’ll protect you if anything scary happens,” riff said nonchalantly. the boys held their breath, mentally applauding riff for being so bold. Y/N blushed at his remark.

after much discussion, the group finally decided on a movie: the conjuring. while the boys couldn’t wait, Y/N knew she wouldn’t exactly enjoy this movie. scary movies weren’t her thing, but she hoped that her fears would be eased if riff was by her side to comfort her.

riff turned it on, and the group got comfy in their spots with their various snacks. only ten minutes into the movie, riff already saw that Y/N was tense, and he slowly reached his arm around her shoulders. she felt surprised by his touch at first, but needed the comfort.

the movie went on, and the first jump scare appeared on screen. mouthpiece screamed at the top of his lungs, baby john accidentally spit out his drink, and tiger held onto a-rab, which a-rab wasn’t fond of.

when Y/N jumped, her first instinct was to attach herself closer to riff. she made a small whimper at the jump, and riff held her close.

“you okay?” riff asked her quietly.

she released the pent up tension in her body. “yeah, i think i’m okay.”

“don’t let a horror movie scare you. it’s all fake,” riff said. Y/N raised her head to look at him.

“you say that like i don’t already know that.”

ice turned around from his spot on the floor. “are you two lovebirds going to watch the movie or keep chattin’ through it?”

the pair stared ice down. “lovebirds?”

“you heard me.”

after trying to ignore ice’s comment, the movie went on, and there was a scene that was one scary thing after another. Y/N buried her head into riff’s shoulder, and he securely wrapped his arms around her.

“i can’t watch!” Y/N uneasily said. despite the scary movie, riff was smiling. he had wanted to have Y/N in his arms for a long time now, and now she was finally there.

the scary part passed, and Y/N kept her head on riff’s shoulder. “it’s done now,” riff whispered. she lifted her head up, but kept her body pressed closely to his. she was happy riff wasn’t weirded out by her sudden closeness. after being ghosted, she realized the one she wanted to get closer with was right in front of her. and now, her opportunity had arrived.

after two long hours of constantly burying her head into riff’s side and lifting her head up only to bury it again at another scary part, the movie had ended.

“i can’t believe you guys actually enjoyed watching that,” Y/N said after getting up to get some water.

“you enjoyed it alright,” a-rab fired back.

“did you see me? i kept my head down the entire time!” she replied.

“yeah, but that gave you an opportunity to get closer to riff, didn’t it?”

the room went silent, and riff and Y/N exchanged knowing glares. the boys watched this exchange and smiled to themselves.

“ah, that’s what we thought,” mouthpiece started. “we’ll leave you two to talk it out, make out, solve your obvious sexual tension, i don’t know. if you need us, we’ll be searchin’ through riff’s valuables in his room.”

riff stared at the boys with his jaw dropped as they walked towards riff’s room. “if you dicks steal anything i’ll kill you!” he yelled.

the two were left alone, and the air was thick with tension.

“is there something you need to tell me?” Y/N asked, stepping closer to the couch riff was still sitting on.

he avoided eye contact. “i was secretly happy when you and nadia didn’t work. i wanted you for myself, because i like you. i always have, i just didn’t want to ruin the friendship we had already built.”

Y/N lightly smiled. “you’ll be glad to hear that i was also secretly happy when we didn’t work. i had other people i wanted to spend my time with.”

riff’s grin spanned across his face. “is that person me?”

with the smile still present on her face, she sat down across from riff on the couch. “no, not at all. i was actually going after a-rab all this time,” she replied sarcastically.

riff laughed and rolled his eyes. he took Y/N’s arm and dragged her to his chest, and she gladly got comfy under his arm.

“you make me so happy,” riff told her, kissing her head.

“you make me happy too.”

after a few glorious minutes of just the two of them finally basking in their love, Y/N broke the silence.

“we should call the boys back in, right?”

riff thought about it. “no, i like it just the two of us.”

Y/N giggled. “fair enough.”

they sat in that position for longer than they even knew, feeling like they’ve both finally found what it means to be in love.

[thecraftymagician]

Omg you don’t have to do this but I literally just thought: what would everyone’s best man/woman speeches be if MC and one of the LI’s got married? Like at Julian and MC’s wedding, I just know Asra and Portia would roast Julian for breaking up with MC after one day lol. Or like if Muriel and MC got married, Asra would be sobbing happy tears. And if MC married Nadia, Lucio would crash the wedding

Okay.. Let's try this again lol Tumblr Gods please bless me this day!

I decided to just stick to roughly two for each character to make it simpler however I can go into more specific combinations if you'd like. Like in my opinion Asra would obviously toast at everyone for MC but it'd probably be a bit repetitive so I only really used them for Muriel because obviously haha In the first draft I did write the full speeches but here I'm just going to bullet point assuming that's okay because it'll basically be the same thing just different format so i'm not sure why I explained that but oh well!

Warnings: Brush your teeth after reading, I'm not responsible for any cavities or running mascara as result of reading this sugary sweetness! FLUFF!!!, some route *spoilers*!

M6 Person of Honor Speeches:

Asra💜

Muriel: A while into the reception and after a few toasts Muriel gets up the courage to finally give his toast; He figures if Inanna could do that great as a ring-bearer he can at least say a few words. His parchment crumples a bit in his grip but his green eyes focus on the scratched points he'd made. While his voice doesn't carry too far, all of the guests seem to remain absolutely still as to hear him. Flushed, he talks about meeting Asra for the first time, how inspired he was by him and how proud he was to be his friend. He spoke of how much Asra deserved to be cared for and was glad that you were there for him, even smiling as he called you a good match. When he spoke of you he didn't want to bring up how loosing you broke Asra even though it was in the back of everyone's minds. Instead he promised himself to protect you both and how he sees you as a good friend or even sibling as he does Asra, gently welcoming you into their tiny found family. Of course that's the take away as Muriel isn't the best with emotional words and seemed to stutter through those parts. He almost forgot that he wasn't alone talking one on one with you both when he finishes as the party cheers, scaring him off a bit. Asra is almost inconsolable as they cry happy tears. Later when they find Muriel you can almost hear his bones crack from Asra's serpent squeeze hug.

Asra gave the first toast to you, your shared love, and the friends along the way full on Edward Cullen style.

Faust too gives a speech that is essentially the scene from SpongeBob where Gary reads poetry but both of you are teary-eyed like Sandy while the rest of the congregation stares politely yet confused. "She has such a way with words..!"

Nadia💖

Lucio: Actually was invited oddly enough but had to be baby sat by Portia as the condition. He was actually okay during the ceremony even though it wasn't as flashy as he'd hoped but at the reception he insisted on giving the first toast. Nadia allowed it on account of good behavior and mused that if all else it would surely be entertaining. Naturally Lucio started off with a few observations such as shouldn't he have given away Nadia? Obviously it would've made sense but he couldn't deny that it was a nice event without him. He at least could've officiated but no matter he was here now! He went on to talk about special days in life as he had extensive knowledge of such festivities and events but none so special as witnessing true love such as you two. He apologized to Nadia for their failure but was moreso happy for her to have found someone who can make her truly happy. He wishes to do the same some day, making a point to comment on his own availability before ending with a "Cheers!" It certainly could've been more awkward but Nadia is glad it was tasteful.

Portia: After being by her side for a while she had gotten to know Nadia like the back of her hand. She starts of admiring Nadia's character, how strong and steadfast she is. How she always thinks things through and will do what is right. She then compares what she knows of you, your own courage and compassion and how you each are more than capable of caring for the other. While she's only witnessed love and read of it in fairytales she comments how seeing you two pale anything in comparison. Watching you two together is to witness a true and equal partnership that she herself strives for. All in all she's so happy for two of her favorite people to be united and of course our little hopeless romantic sheds a tear causing each of you to follow suit.

Julian🖤

Portia: Portia is the one to kick things off as she has plenty to say. The cat face is on full display so you know this is gonna be good. She starts off by recounting meeting you and how thoughtful, funny, kind, and overall great you were. She just knew you'd be great friends especially after keeping her secrets and helping her brother. That was until said idiot brother blew it by breaking it off instead of trusting anyone once again and deciding things for them. To her surprise and utter happiness you didn't take that lying down and even insisted on getting her help to set things right. She was so proud of you for standing up to him and admittedly enjoyed seeing Ilyushka get a stern talking to from you. That was a hell of a way to start off your whirlwind from her point of view but she couldn't be further over the moon for you two. To believe ANYONE could help turn him around was almost unthinkable but she secretly placed her bets on you. Getting to see the two of you together and happy as well as getting the best sibling in law ever? That's just the cherry on top!

Mazelinka: There's always the embarrassing parent speech right? Well, Mazelinka decides it's up to herself to deliver with a loving roast of poor Julian. She recaps on how she found him and Pasha after the storm and taking him to her own lover to be raised. Growing up he was awkward as could be but with a heart of pure gold. While he got into much more trouble than most, he never stole that she knew of.. until finding you with him in her home late at night. She knew just by looking at you two that he'd stolen your heart or at least that you'd taken his. That slippery boy needs someone who is firm enough to set him straight when he needs it but loving and patient too, and boy after everything he put you through were you patient. Somehow you are just what the doctor ordered and have whipped him into shape as the man they all knew he could be with just enough confidence and love. For that she is grateful and proud of you. She's more than happy to welcome you to the family.

Muriel💚

Asra: The whole day has left your dear friend teary-eyed and on the verge of letting the dams break. He is just thrilled about you too. When he gives his speech they are trying so hard to stay composed but they can't help but gush. Asra talks about growing up with Muriel, finding their home together in the woods, all the trials and tribulations life unfortunately brought them but how it made them grow stronger together. They recount meeting you and how before everything you were the only other person Muriel could really trust. Asra knew it was difficult loosing that and how hard it was to not have you around as well but somehow you found away. Somehow the two of you ended up reforming that bond and after everything you went through came out together even stronger than before. Even before Muriel had never quite come out of his shell like this and been able to truly be himself yet you found a way to help him do just that. You have a special kind of magic to you stronger than anything he knows. Seeing you together is so unique and special, like the southern lights in the sky. Different than a sunny day or the first snow but nonetheless beautiful. While they could obviously continue they worry about talking everyone's ears off. He leaves with how insanely happy he is to see his favorite people ever together. Muriel squeezes your hand, unable to fight his beaming grin for tears for that matter as be blushes fiercely.

Portia🧡

Julian: He starts off by talking about how he respects that Portia is a grown women, he cannot pass up talking about how adorable she was growing up. Hair too big for her body, never one to give up in a fight, full of equal parts spitfire and courage as well as kindness and cunning. She always did so much for others and while capable needs someone to love and cherish her the same as she does for others. Luckily enough she found you. He recounted her favorite stories of adventures and fairytales that he'd read her growing up and couldn't deny your similar qualities to her favorite heroes. You'd lived up to and even far surpassed his expectations for his sister's significant other. He's happy she'd found her match in guts and love. That is to say you must swap stories about your adventures till the end of time now! He's just really happy for his sister and new sibling in law.

Mazelinka: While not nearly as embarrassing as Julian she'd still recount Pasha growing up just the same, how much she wanted to be a big kid and go off on her own adventures like her brother. Who'd have thought one of her biggest journeys included finding you? Of course that's just what she always wanted but it's rare in life that wishes be granted. That is to say she found herself a magician none the less so all bets are off. She thanks your for keeping her safe but not smothering her either, that's just what Pasha's always needed and it's been wonderful to watch her thrive.

Lucio❤️

Nadia: Lucio cannot help but sweat and worry when Nadia decides to speak. Luckily, she's as sweet and gentle as ever when choosing to make a few well placed jabs at her ex-husband. She starts off speaking about Lucio, pausing at times to collect herself. In other words she basically talks about how he can be.. hard to get along with at times, is one to make his fair share of mistakes, has been known for not being the most noble man despite his title, etc. With all that said she couldn't help her surprise at all of those rougher parts of his character being chipped away after meeting you. You were headstrong enough to not give into his whims and admired how he seemed to want to be better for you. You inspired him to change, evolve for the better though that's not surprising. Nadia herself admires your character and all you've done for her, Vesuvia, and Lucio. You're good for him, that's plain as day and he seems to make you exceptionally happy as well. She remarks that much of what happened was unexpected, the two of you getting together was a happy surprise.

Lucio: Like Asra, he would feel the need to declare his love once again and of course thank everyone for coming in a bolder way. He'd go on to basically reaffirm what Nadia had said but in his own point of view, being very open and vulnerable with his feelings for the first time in front of everyone.

(I don't think Asra would speak at this one. I think he'd try leave after congratulating you both but Julian would convince him to at least dance together once before heading out.)

[the-melting-world]

The Empress | Side A: “Promise”

Art by @markmefistov

~ In which a humble gardener is granted an audience with her patron Arcana… 

The Trio Appearances: Kipling | Khleo | Ozy

Arcana LI appearances: Asra | Nadia | Muriel 

Track Origins: “Promise” by Ben Howard

Not sure if this is the right track? The full album can be found here: The Empress

cw: mentions of death, monsters, slight horror, drowning themes, manhandling, some blood

~ 2.6k words

Kipling has made it to The Empress’ realm. Ozy hangs back in Vesuvia with Nadia, Muriel, and Asra. He opens a smaller Door that allows them to watch Kipling’s progress with her patron Arcana...

Asra and Nadia’s body language easily gave away their excitement. They crowded on either side of Ozy as he stretched open the portal to get a clear view on what was going on with Kipling and The Empress.

Abaco and Taro were excited as well. They both perched themselves on Ozy’s shoulders. Nadia withdrew to avoid getting a face full of the lemur’s bushy tail.

“Taro,” she said with a tight smile, “I’m afraid you’ll have to find a different spot. I cannot see past your charming purple coat.”

Ozy chuckled and pulled a contrite-looking Taro into his lap. Muriel, who hadn’t moved from where he was on the other side of the table, shifted uncomfortably in his seat.

“Nadia, Asra… you’re both okay with this?”

Asra turned his fluffy head and arched a white brow. “Why wouldn’t we be, Muri? Now we get to keep an eye on Kip and make sure she’s doing okay.”

Faust nodded enthusiastically. 

Watching is fun! Kipling is fun!

Muriel didn’t look convinced. “Ozy, this doesn’t feel like spying to you?”

Ozy shook his head, keeping his eyes on adjusting the portal. 

“Nope! This is for educational purposes. If I’m going to continue to teach Kipling about grey magic, I need to know how this goes. Feel free to leave if it’s making you too uncomfortable.”

Muriel took a long look at his friends and their familiars craning their necks to get a full view of what was happening in The Empress’ realm.

“I’ll stay, but I won’t watch,” Muriel decided. As an afterthought, he mumbled to himself, “I’ll just listen.”

***

Kipling did not feel so uncomfortable around her patron Arcana after she had taken a seat in the grass down by her feet and started scratching out a poem on a slip of paper. The gardener did, however, find it difficult to concentrate with so many animals occupying the same space. They made lots of interesting, but distracting noises. Not to mention there were saber tooth tigers and hyenas walking around with baby ducklings and turtles trapped between their maws – and the latter were very much still alive.

Kip glanced nervously up at the Empress. “Um. Aren’t you going to stop your children from eating… your other children?”

The Empress tilted her antlered head. “Oh, them? They’re merely practicing at being predators and prey. They can’t kill anything yet.” She plucked one of the berries from her antlers and flicked it to the back of her throat. “The killing and the dying will come much later. When they are grown.”

Kipling suppressed the shudder that threatened to climb up her back and returned to her poem. She channelled those unsettling feelings as best as she could onto the paper.

The Empress drummed her fingers on the leafy armrest of her throne. “Do you know why you’re here, umbra?”

Kipling didn’t answer her right away. She held off until she wrapped up the last line of her poem. Then she put down her pen, folded the slip of paper and looked up at her patron. “Well, I’ve already opened my third eye, so I’m guessing you’re going to show me how to do something else that will help strengthen my magic?”

The Empress snorted. “Magic? Think again.” With a heavy breath, she hoisted herself out of the throne.

Kipling stood up too and tucked the slip of paper between the flowering vines in the backrest of the throne. Then she followed the Arcana on her leisurely stroll through the garden.

“Did you know that every human cannot function without three things? Any guess what those things might be? I’ll give you a hint. You and your friends embody each of the three.”

The hint didn’t do anything except confuse Kipling. She shook her head. 

The Empress’ nostrils flared in amusement. “No? Every human needs... a heart. A body. A mind. Which one do you think you are?”

Kipling took a moment to consider. “Am I… the heart?” 

The Empress nodded. “You are. Perhaps I am biased, but I do believe the heart serves the most essential function.” She didn’t wait to see whether or not Kip agreed before elaborating. “It’s up to the heart to communicate what the body can’t. What the mind won’t…. Tell me, do you remember your reading with Small Hermit? Can you recall why you pulled me in the reversed position?

Kip shrugged. “I guess I’m just… too smothering.” She sighed. “And it’s causing me to neglect other things that are important to me.”

The Arcana lifted her chin. “Yes. When you are under pressure, especially one that calls upon your emotions for another, you tend to cling. Your friend, Khleo… they shut down. And as for Oz’mandias–”

“He detaches,” Kip said softly.

The Empress hummed her approval. “Humans. You all have weaknesses. Don’t look so ashamed, umbra. How you overcome these flaws is what makes your kind interesting and worthwhile.”

Kipling rolled her eyes. “What are you trying to say? That I should be less clingy? That I should just let Khleo go?”

“Interesting that you mentioned letting go. Let’s unpack that. Tell me, umbra, how do you expect anything to bloom, if you never give it a chance to grow? Imagine the relief that would bring. Once you’ve cleared all of the detritus from your heart, you can give new seeds room to germinate.”

Kip let herself say to The Empress what she wouldn’t with Ozy. “But I don’t want to let Khleo go.”

The Empress gave another one of her derisive snorts. “Letting go. You don’t even know what that means.”

Suddenly, Kipling and The Empress were no longer standing in a garden. Now they were on a rock that looked out at the ocean. Kipling recognized this rock and the sea that turned its waves below and far into the horizon. She bit back the urge to ask The Empress why she had transported them to a replica of the Melting World.

“Look, umbra. See yourself there.”

Kipling turned in the direction that the Arcana was pointing. Her breath caught in her throat as soon as she registered what was happening on the edge of the rock. She saw herself and Ozy arguing. They were so young. She was fifteen. He was seventeen. 

Kipling tore her eyes away from the bickering teenagers and searched for…

“Let’s practice letting go, umbra,” The Empress said just as Kip’s eyes fell on a young Khleo, who was standing before an enormous Door. “See if you can figure out the meaning on your own.”

The Door yawned and tugged roughly on Khleo’s body.

Kipling took off. She barely stopped to think before casting herself into the portal after them.

“Khleo–”

The gardener reached and grasped at nothing at first. Then something slammed into her, leaving her breathless. It took a moment before she realized that she had been caught up in a wave. She knew this feeling too well. All her nightmares in the past had been like this. 

Kip’s cheek was pressed to the rock. Her whole body hugged the rough limestone. It scraped her skin as she shifted to look around for Khleo. She found them. Standing before the Door again. Just like they were moments ago. She could hear the younger version of herself bickering with Ozy in the background.

The Empress’ voice came from everywhere and nowhere.

“Let go.”

Kipling fixed her gaze on Khleo and stood up. “No.”

She took off again, not caring that the wave from before had snatched off her shoes and now the limestone was cutting into her heels. She knew that if she just pushed harder, ran faster, she could get to Khleo in time.

WHAM.

Another wave crashed into her, followed by another sickening bout of disorientation. But Kipling had been there before. This was nothing new to her. 

She saw Khleo. Heard the arguing in the background. She ignored it, choosing instead to chase after Khleo.

She ate seawater. Her sinuses burned in brine. She didn’t care. 

She had to save Khleo. 

The gardener lost track of how many times the Door reset. 

How many times was The Empress going to force her to watch Khleo get taken away? When would she understand that Kipling could not – would not let go?

After a particularly violent wave, Kipling let the Arcana have her way.

“Fine!” She wheezed, cheek pressed to the rock, eyes shut against the painful images that kept replaying without her consent. “You win!”

When she coughed, it felt like torture because of how many times she had been caught up in the waves. It hurt to breathe. 

Water fought its way out of Kipling’s nose. She writhed in an effort to sneeze and instead swallowed a wet, salty lump. It made her sick. She wanted this to be over so she could go back to her plants and be happy. 

“I get it now. I should just be grateful for what I have.” She would love Asra and Muriel and Nadia. She would show Ozy the love he deserved. She would let Khleo go. “I want too much! I always have.” 

She opened her eyes, thinking she would see The Empress. Bending low to place a crown of flowers upon Kipling’s head. Murmuring something about graduating to the next realm of understanding and healing.

Instead, she saw the cascade of a monstrous wave.

“N-No!”

WHAM.

And so it went on. Kipling took the beating of the hurricane and the sea.

“What do you think it means now, umbra?”

Dying, Kipling wanted to say. It means to die.

“Do you think letting go means closing your eyes and waiting for it to be over? Do you think it means forgetting about that person? Do you think it means pretending like they never existed in the first place? It’s none of those things!”

When Kipling could speak again – and it was a long time before she could – with the back of her hand, she wiped away the salty drool mixed with blood from all the times she hit the rocks and said, “You’re killing me.”

The Empress bleated in laughter, her thin lips curling back over blunted teeth. 

“You cannot expect a strong body to rely on a weak heart. What’s more, Kipling, my sweet, a weak heart could never support a powerful mind! They need you just as much as you need them. So you must know – you will learn – when to hold on…” 

The Empress snatched Kip’s head off the rock and pried open her eyes. She watched Khleo’s mouth open in an empty cry as they were taken by the portal again.

 “And when to let go!”

The gardener screamed and jerked out of her patron’s grasp. She tumbled down the rock until she landed roughly before the great Door. There was no wave this time, but her senses still burned from the sound of her younger self and Ozy screaming just off to the side.

Look around. 

Kipling didn’t want to look. Not at those two. Not at herself.

Think about what you’re letting go of. 

“No. I can’t,” Kipling wheezed as she propped herself up on her elbows. “I don’t know that person.”

You can. Because you’re almost there.

It was Kipling’s own words that she was hearing. Not The Empress’, she realized. 

She turned and looked at her teenage self. Kipling stood up.

“I never forgave her.” She said finally. “I said I was sorry to Ozy. I accepted his forgiveness. I even let go of the guilt, but I never forgave who I was then for all the damage I had caused.”

She knew The Empress could hear her. Those dark ruminant features entered her periphery. This time her antlers were covered in seashells and barnacles. 

Plucking an oyster from one of the branches and cracking it open, The Empress said, “As a child, you were one who insisted on keeping everything to herself, letting nothing out, letting no one inside. Imagine if you had held onto her. Imagine who you would be now and the people you would not be able to keep in your company. You let her go a long a time ago.” She removed a fat pearl from the oyster and wedged it inside of one of her hollow eye sockets.

“But forgiveness is a different type of letting go,” Kip said, feeling as though she was talking to herself rather than a Major Arcana. “I forgive her. She was young. I mean, I was young. I know better now.”

Kip didn’t look, but she sensed a smile from The Empress.

“Watch out, umbra. Another wave comes.”

Kipling was ready. Her gauntlets hummed to life. She saw several waves stretching high overhead, intent on crushing her against the bedrock. She saw the glyphs in the framework that intersected the fabric of everything, felt the ones that lit up just for her.

“Taro.”

A tiny Door spiraled open by Kipling’s elbow. Taro chittered and glowed as she floated into view and whizzed around the umbra’s shoulders. Just like Kipling felt the Doors, she felt the tethers to her familiar – in all ten fingers. And Taro, who had always been able to pick up on the things Kip wanted quicker than she felt them at times, knew exactly where to go.

“Hmm.” The Empress mused. “You spin silk. Like my spiders.”

Kipling directed Taro, who passed her tethers onto the glyphs, where they knotted and secured Kip’s connection to them. She never had to leave the motherboard as she tugged with one hand and engaged the dials with another. 

Doors opened under her feet, dragging down the weight of the crashing waves. Kip closed her eyes, relaxing until the locks on all of the Doors clicked smoothly into place. The water rushed violently past her head, but only her freckled cheeks were kissed by the ocean spray.

When the sea had emptied itself, the umbra sealed off the Doors and called Taro back to her. The light dimmed from the lemur’s eyes and markings as she took her seat on Kip’s shoulders. 

The gardener was in the middle of rewarding Taro with scritches when someone came up behind her.

“If I go through that Door...”

Kipling turned to see Khleo towering over her.

“Will I die?”

Kip swallowed. The Empress was nowhere in sight. She took in Khleo’s features. Their height, the slightness of their bones and thin arms. Her eyes smarted at the sight of their ghost lock chasing the salty breeze.

Their face. It was the only thing that would stay the same. Everything else about them was going to change.

“Will I die?” Khleo repeated, their dark brown eyes flicking over Kip’s head at the great Door that yawned in their direction.

Kipling glanced over at where the old Kip was arguing with the old Ozy.

“It might feel like you’re dying at times,” she said honestly. Then she took Khleo by the hand. “But I promise, that’s just you becoming strong.”

Khleo blinked and looked curiously at Kipling. “Strong like you?”

Kip laughed a little. “No, Khleo.” She wiped her eyes at the memory of seeing them in Strength’s realm.

“Strong like you’re meant to be.”

And it was then that Kipling knew what she had to do. She gently pulled Khleo towards the Door.

“I’m scared,” Khleo said, their voice breaking as it often did in those days. 

Kip nodded sagely. “Growing up is scary sometimes.”

Khleo bit their lip. “Oh.”

They didn’t look as worried as they did before when Kipling guided them to the threshold. Khleo didn’t say anything else. They did, however, offer her a small smile and squeeze her hand. Kipling smiled too before she let them go.

Then she took a step back and watched Khleo walk through the Door.

[theshipden]

The main 6 finding out Mc is preggers with their child

Asra;

They knew something was up from the very beginning, they’re very in tune with you

When you begin to feel sick, they’re there to take care of you and pamper you, using magic to ease your nausea

when you nervously tell him after an oddly quiet, anxious day it suddenly clicks together why you were so silent

They’re so happy, you’re immediately swept up into their arms and showered in reassurance and kisses

All they wanted was you, to see you again, hear you again, hold and love you- and now they get that and more?

Goes to the realms less, spends majority of his time with you 

Takes over running the shop, but they know you’ll ask him for help if you need it

Nadia and Muriel hear first, then with your permission, he tells the others

Doesn’t smother you but is always within reach, always ready to lend a hand

Practices hot and cold magic to help you with any soreness or hot flashes

Braids your hair and pulls it back when the morning sickness or kicks become too much

His smile is definitely brighter these days, his touch gentler, and sometimes you awake to their hands cradling your swollen belly

Very patient with your needs and cravings, offers space when you need it

Tells you how great of a parent you’re going to be, how lucky he is

Julian;

When you start getting sick in the mornings, he thinks you’re coming down with some kind of cold.

Honestly, you’re too busy caring for him to notice some of the obvious signs your body is telling you

When you’re laying against him and complain about feeling/looking bloated does he bring up the topic nervously, flustered and scared to upset you

You both contemplate it, go into a deep talk far too late at night about it but agree you’re both ready for the next step

After you miss your period and pay closer attention, it’s unmistakable that you’re carrying a child

He drops to his knees so fast, kissing your flat belly and whispering to it

Does the exact same even when you’re rounded and well plump 

He insists on talking to your stomach, puts his hand to your belly during breakfast.

The first kick he feels is sometime in the night when he’s telling your baby a story

He’s never jumped up so fast, the smile and joy on his face was something you’d never forget

Knows best how to curb your nausea, soreness, and any mood swings

Doctors orders, my dear

Nadia;

She doesn’t realize, truthfully, but she does know you’re acting different

Leaving the bed at night, late to breakfast every morning, pale, sweaty, your chest is sore?

Convinces you to get checked by Julian, if not by the palace’s doctors

At first you and Julian keep it a secret, you’ll tell Nadia on your own time, on your own terms in a better way

You tell her everything’s fine, not to worry, but she doesn’t press it and trusts you’ll tell her the truth soon

During a dance for nobles, you rush to the bathrooms and lose your composure at the sink

She frets and coos at you, holds you when you’re done

Embarrassed you cry into the safety of her shoulder and tell her

Wonders why you never mentioned it sooner, asks if you’d want to go to bed early

She sleeps in more after finding out, goes to bed earlier, clears her schedule to see you more in the day

You both have many long and detailed conversations about progressing and what to do

watches you closely, if she’s not there then someone is to aid you, you’re not alone much

asks the kitchen to feed you only the best and most nutritious meals, breakfast in bed happens much more when sitting up yourself is difficult

Tells you you’re beautiful by the piano, playing soft melodies for the two loves of her life

Muriel;

You don’t know it at first, he surely doesn’t either

You know your body well enough, if you’re not worried or too concerned, he won’t be either

Inanna doesn’t want to leave your side, he isn’t too sure why but lets her, it means you’re safer anyhow

You break the news to him over soup by the fireplace, wrapped in blankets, as if discussing weather

nearly chokes, asks you to say that again, absolutely red 

He’ll wonder if he’s even worthy, if he deserves this, if you want this

You bring his hand to your belly and tell him there’s no one else you’d want this to happen with

You have to reassure him a lot, he’s so scared he’ll hurt you or the baby, his strength is horrifying to him

When you need him though, hes there

Rubs your back, feet, helps you sit up, lets you borrow his clothes when your’s no longer fits right anymore

Grows more comfortable the bigger your stomach gets with your reassurance, prepares the house

Pops into the forest a bit more, but never for too long, he doesnt want to leave you by yourself

Sometimes he gets overwhelmed by how beautiful you are, that there’s going to be three in the house now, and sobs

By himself, he’ll curl into you and place his hand over your bump and just breathe

Portia;

Jokes about being pregnant with you a lot at first, you both laugh it off when you miss a period

Those jokes die down when your chest aches, you bloat, get hungrier, feel sick when you wake up

she calls Julian thinking you’re dying or the jokes weren’t just jokes anymore

She finds out the same time you do and she squeals

All over you in a second with hugs and questions and suggestions on everything

Julian sees himself out, congratulating you both before he leaves

She tells the servants right away unable to keep it a secret, so ecstatic about having a baby with you 

Finds cute clothes in the market for both you and the baby, receives gifts from Nadia and friends

Knows exactly how to touch you to make the nausea easier to manage, or the soreness to go away

Works hard at first but the closer you get, she starts to take time off

You can’t get the image out of your head of another redhead in your family, Julian always jokes about them being twins if you have a boy

She’s dotting on you from start to finish, coming home with things to make your pregnancy easier

Asks Julian for lots of tips and anything she should look out for, for you

Favorite place? Head in your lap, arms around your stomach with pepi somewhere nearby

Lucio;

Surprisingly, he can tell something’s different with you

Sure, he’s a little self-centered but not when it comes to you, his tribe had ways of knowing things before they knew of western medicine practices

terrified you might have the plague again, you’re with him after all, and immediately gets doctors to look you over

while the thought did cross his mind before, he really didnt think it possible

him?? becoming a father?? That was too good to be true, no way it could happen, not with someone as great as you

kicks all the doctors out right away, so quick to tell you he’d love to have a baby with you but of course, no pressure. If its not what you want he gets it, respects that

When you tell him you’d love to have a baby, his smile is blinding as he dives for you

Insists on doing everything for you, you’re not lifting a single finger for the next nine months

spoils you, rotten, even when you might ask him not to, he can’t help it

Already a room, cribs, and new wardrobe for you and the baby

Wants nothing but to stay with you, he gets angry if he’s away from you for too long

Pampers you to hell and back, washes your back for you, rubs your feet, room service daily

Sometimes when he’s too far in his head, he’ll ask you again if this is what you really, truly want

Nobody can come close to you, filthy, gremlins, Lucio snaps at everyone

He’ll scream your praises from morning to dusk, you’re so beautiful, has he said that today??

he has??

better say it again

oh, and did he mention how amazing you are?

Because you are and he adores you

[hopelikethemoon]

Christmas Morning (Javier x Reader) {MTMF}

Title: Christmas Morning Rating: PG Length: 2000 Warnings: FLUFF Notes: You can find everything about Maybe Today, Maybe Forever here. Christmas Day 1998.  Summary: Presents are opened. 

@grapemama​​​​​​ @seawhisperer​​​​​​ @huliabitch​​​​​​ @beccaplaying​​​​​​ @rogrsnbarnes​​​​​​@thewallpapergoesorido @twomoonstwosuns​​​​​ @gooddaykate​​​​​​ @livasaurasrex​​​​@ham4arrow​​​​​​@plexflexico @readsalot73​​​​​ @hdlynn​​​​​​ @lokiaddicted​​​​​​ @randomness501​​ @fioccodineveautunnale​​​  @roxypeanut​​​​ @snivellusim​​​​​​ @lukesrighthand​​​​​ @historynerd04 @mrsparknuts​​​​​​@synystersilenceinblacknwhite​​​​ @behindmyeyes-insidemyhead​​ @exrebelshocktrooper​​​​​@awesomefandomsunited @ah-callie​​​​​​ @swhiskeys​​​​​​ @lady-tano​ @u-wakatoshii​​​ @space-floozy​​​​​@cable-kenobi​​​​​​ @cool-ultra-nerd @himbopoes​​​​​​ @findhimfives​​​​​​ @pedrosdoll​​​​​​ @frietiemeloen​​​​​​@arrowswithwifi​​​​​​ @random066​​ @uncomicalhumour​​​​​ @heather-lynn​​​​​ @domino-oh-damn​​​​@cyarikaaa​​​ @ahopelessromanticwritersworld​​​​ @im-still-a-pieceofgarbage @ksgeekgirl​​​​​​  @yabby-girl​​​​​ @xqueenofthecraziesx​​​​​ @punkass-potato​​​​@coredrive​​​​​​ @pascalesque​​​​​​@theduchessofkirkcaldy @queenquazar​​​​​​ @sabinemorans​​​​​​ @buckstaposition​​​​​​ @holkaskrosnou​���​​​​@yespolkadotkitty​​​​​​ @fleetwoodmactshirt​​​​​ @seeking-a-great–perhaps @kochamcie​​​​​​ @jaime1110​​​​​​@katlikeme​

“Mommy, look what Nadia got me!” Josie shouted, getting your attention as you looked through the viewfinder of the camcorder. She proudly held up a bright pink CD-Rom game, “It’s the fashion designer game I’ve wanted for forever!”

Javier gave you a look, “I think she just shaded you.”

You rolled your eyes, “Thank Nadia for it.”

“The kid’s got style. How could I resist?” Nadia shrugged. “Next time we watch you, we’ll play with it, alright?”

Josie nodded her head, “Thank you.”

Chucho chuckled, “Just you wait until she opens my presents.” He took a sip of coffee before sitting it aside and taking the very squirmy Sofía out of your arms. 

“Mommy!” Josie squealed. “Monica got me the nail designer too!” She beamed at the camera.

“Looks like this is a very Barbie Christmas.” Javier remarked, resting his hand on the top of your thigh and giving it a squeeze. You pulled your housecoat around you tighter and leaned into his side. 

Josie moved onto her grandfather’s gifts, which included the Barbie Riding Club game and a matching Barbie doll. 

“Look!” Josie brandished the doll, pouting a little. “But I still don’t have a pony.”

“Hmm.” Javier tapped his chin thoughtfully, “I wonder if Santa knew. Maybe you should open your stocking.”

Josie scrambled across the floor to grab the stocking out from under the tree, before retreating back into her spot in front of the camera. 

“Clothing…” She huffed, tossing them aside like any little girl would, before she got her hands on the big toy. “A horse! Daddy, I got my pony!” She ooed and awed as she stared at the package. 

“And it walks,” You told her with a grin. 

Mitch leaned over the back of the sofa, giving your shoulder a squeeze. “That smile right there reminds me of a certain sixteen year old and Dove.”

“Oh God.” You hid your face. 

“Who’s Dove?” Javier questioned. 

You playfully swatted Mitch’s hand off your shoulder. “The guitar I got for Christmas after I moved in with them,” You explained, scrunching up your nose “It was black and had this stupid white dove on the front.”

“She was just the cutest thing,” Darla remarked from behind the sofa where she was sitting beside Mitch on the chairs Javier had pulled in from the dining table. “But she was no Stevie Nicks.” 

Javier grinned at you, rubbing his hand up and down your leg, “I didn’t know you played.” 

“Not well.” You assured him, making a face as you pressed your lips against his shoulder. 

“She wasn’t terrible,” Mitch amended. “Not great, but not terrible.” 

“Mommy, are you getting this?” Josie questioned as she tugged on a dress over her pajamas. 

Monica laughed, “Why don’t we do a fashion show later?”

“Does Tate want to do a fashion show?” Josie questioned. 

Tate clenched his teeth and grimaced, looking towards you and his parents for a way out. 

“Tate would love to be in your fashion show,” Mitch told Josie, patting Tate on the back. 

“Thanks dad.” He grumbled, shaking his head. 

“Now, let’s see what mommy and daddy got for you.” Javier said, gesturing to the large box that was still sitting under the Christmas tree.

“But I’ve already got everything I wanted!” Josie announced, even as she hauled the box over and started peeling away the wrapping paper. She stopped once she realized what was in the box, her jaw dropping as she looked directly at the camera, before looking towards you and Javier. “Mommy!” She grinned at you. 

“Well, let us see.” Chucho remarked, taking another sip of coffee. 

Josie quickly peeled away the paper and proudly held up the American Girl doll that you had been eyeing for over a year. As soon as that catalog showed up in the mail last Christmas… you had known you had to buy it for her. 

“What’s her name?” Monica questioned, tilting her head as she tried to catch a glimpse of what the name was, but Josie was quick to turn it back around so only she could see it. 

“Her name is Josefina! Just like me!” 

“No kidding,” Chucho remarked, looking at you and Javier then. “That worked out didn’t it.” 

You laughed, biting on your thumbnail. “An arm and a leg later.” 

“Let me see,” Nadia said, holding her hand out to take the box from Josie. “Josefina Montoya.”

“Wait a stinky minute!” Josie jumped up suddenly, racing down the hallway towards her bedroom. 

You pursed your lips and looked between the other adults in the room, “Where do children get those phrases?” You laughed, sitting up a little as you looked down the hallway as she came trotting back with a book in her hands. Ah. 

“You’ve been reading to me about her, Mommy! You clever lady!” She jumped onto the sofa, nearly causing Chucho to spill his coffee beside you as she threw herself onto yours and Javier’s laps. 

“I wanted you to know all about your new friend,” You told her, poking her in the belly. “I hope you realize you’ve been spoiled rotten today.” 

“It’s because I was a good girl all year.” Josie grinned brightly at you, tucking her hands under her head as she reclined back on you. 

Javier tapped his finger against her nose, “And now you’ve gotta be a good girl for a whole new year.” 

She sighed dramatically, “Well, I’ve gotta be good for sissy.” Josie sat up and walled her way in between you and Chucho to dote on her sister. 

Mitch leaned over the sofa, “You’ve done good, kid.” 

You smiled back at him, “I’ve tried to.” 

“So what did you two get each other?” Monica questioned. “I noticed you two already did gifts.” 

Javier snorted, “That’s what happens when you’re parents and you get up before the little ones.” He curled his arm around your shoulders, “Aside from the grill, someone got me the Star Wars trilogy on VHS.” 

“And a couple new games for his Playstation,” You said, patting his leg. “And he got me an office chair for our office at school.” You shrugged. The real gift had been the update to the silver bracelet you wore. Hidden under the band, away from anyone’s gaze, was a special date in May — etched in alongside all the other important dates in your lives. 

You still couldn’t believe that a few feet away, unbeknownst to everyone except for Chucho — the picture of the two of you, fresh out of saying your vows, hung on the wall without anyone knowing. 

Your little secret. 

“You know, the fact that you play video games gives me hope for other people from your generation.” 

“You’re right behind us,” You reminded her with a pointed look.

“You and Javier are Boomers,” Nadia pointed out. “Monica and I are Generation X.” 

“I feel like this is a slam.” Javier remarked, his brows drawn together skeptically. “Is this a slam?”

“Now we know where Josie’s getting her zingers.” 

Josie nodded her head, “I get all the zingers, mommy.” She grabbed at your hand and kissed it. “I love you mommy.” 

“Aw, I love you too sweetheart.” You kissed the top of her head. 

“You too, daddy.” 

“Love you, princesa.” 

Josie jumped off the sofa, startling Stevie who jerked awake. “I love everyone in this room!” She announced, before snatching up her American Girl doll box and heading back towards her bedroom. 

“I so thought the horse would be the biggest draw,” You remarked with a shake of your head. “I guess you can’t always know.” You took the baby back from Chucho, settling her into the spot in between you and Javier so she could recline back against him. 

Chucho gave your arm a pat before he hauled himself off the sofa, “I’m gonna make another cup, now that the fun’s over with.” 

“Make a whole pot, will you? I need coffee.” You said as you stifled a yawn. 

Mitch got up from his chair and walked around to take Chucho’s seat on the sofa. “Thank you for inviting us back into your life.” He said, gesturing towards Tate and Darla. “Not a day went by that I didn’t worry about you. Hoping that you’d turn out alright, despite everything. And you have.” 

You felt tears prickle behind your eyelids as you blinked slowly, “Thank you, Mitch. I wish I’d made more of an effort.” 

“It all works out in the end,” He said with a wave of his hand. “You and your family are welcome in Philly.” Mitch looked towards Monica and Nadia then, “You two as well.” 

“Really?” Monica smiled. “I’m honored.” 

“You’re family.” Mitch said with a warm smile, before he looked back at you. “I’m proud of you and I know dad would be… God, he’d be thrilled to see how well you’ve done for yourself. That’s all he ever wanted.” 

You wiped at your eyes, “I don’t know where I’d be if he hadn’t set everything up for me. I know I’m really lucky.” You knew there were hundreds of thousands of kids who went through the same bullshit you did — every day. 

Monica had shitty parents. Connie’s mother was in the running for craziest mother of the year. 

“I just want to do right by my girls.” You told him. “They deserve the world I didn’t have.” 

Javier squeezed your shoulder three times as he kept his arm curled around you. “I’m glad you welcomed Mitch into our family,” He started with an amused tone in his voice. “Otherwise I’d never know you could play the guitar.” He snapped his fingers. “Steve’s got one.”

You turned your head slowly and glared at him, “No.” 

“Oh, come on.” 

“No!” You laughed, slapping his leg. 

“She really wasn’t that bad,” Mitch pointed out. “If she had actually practiced.”

You scrunched up your nose, “I felt weird taking lessons from your nanny.” 

“She was paid for it!” Darla assured you. “And to think, you could be some big name musician if you’d put a little effort into it.” 

“I wouldn’t have met Javier.” You said without hesitation. “There’s no variation of my life where I’d be okay with that.” 

“I dunno,” Javier clicked his tongue against his teeth. “Maybe I’d be working security for your concerts.” 

You rolled your eyes, “No.” 

“You two go well together,” Mitch pointed out, drawing a line between the two of you. “I don’t think I ever saw this spark between you or any of the guys you brought home.” 

“MItch!” You shot him a look. “Shut up.” 

“No, no. I’m curious now.” Javier glanced around you. “What were these men li—” You covered his mouth with your hand before he could finish. 

“Nope. We are not having this conversation.” You warned him, turning back towards Mitch then. “Don’t.” You slowly uncovered Javier’s mouth. “I went to an all girl’s school, my choice of boys was narrowed down to Darla’s friends’ sons and the sons of the ladies at the DAR.” 

“They weren’t terrible.” Darla pointed out. 

“The were the poster boys for frat houses, college sports, and the dictionary definition of WASPs.” 

“Oh,” Javier tilted his head. “Lance?”

You made a face, “Unfortunately. In my defense it was Philadelphia.” 

“The pickings were slim.” Darla laughed. “But look what it’s led you to.” She patted the top of your head in a very familiar fashion, before she headed into the kitchen to get a cup of the coffee Chucho was brewing. 

“All that matters is that you’re happy, kid.” Mitch reminded you. 

“Oh, I am.” You assured him. “I think I’ve maxed out on happy.” 

“And we’ve maxed out on camera space.” Javier pointed out, setting Sofía in your lap as he scooted forward to fiddle with the camcorder. 

This was what Christmas was going to be like for the rest of your life. A stark contrast to the Christmases you remembered from years past — back when the holiday seemed like a black mark on the calendar because you never got to be with the people who actually loved you. 

Now you had that love and you were never letting it go. 

[hanawrites404]

Wynne’s Birthday Diary - Erik Naveen

"The sunset seems....... pleasant today huh" brushing the strands of hair from my face and tucking it behind my ear, I gaze at the vermilion golden meltdown of the star ahead of me, as I held the hem of the dress I was wearing for today in my hand.

"It sure does, Wynne" the blonde beside me, her hair reflecting the hues of the scenery in front of us, and her eyes repainted with the warm colours. We both were at our leisures in the ash docks, waiting for exactly two people to arrive as specified by me to both of them. Nadia had left me early for today, and Asra freed his apprentice the same, and that's how we both were quick on reaching the meeting spot, near the smoky sea and the Vesuvian horizon.

The sunset felt pretty warm and balmy today. Hah. I totally wondered why.

"Hello ladies. Sorry it took me some time to arrive" me and Salette (@utopia-t) turned to the male's voice, and were not surprised to find the curly brunet, rubbing his reddened knuckles and walking towards us with his brown boots clicking by each step of his long legs.

"Good you came on time, William" I closed my eyes for a moment and opened them again, as he gave an acknowledging nod.

"Right I did" he replied, scratching his head and looking away for a bit, and then locked his eyes again with me. "So when is Erik coming?"

"He told me that would come after he is done with his deliveries" Salette this time replied and I nodded in agreement.

"I see.....Then let's wait for him in the meantime" William (@hokorri) then walks past us and sits on one of the huge rocks, resting his back carefully against them as he peered at the luminescent sight. His skin and his eyes turning the same golden as the sleeping sun.

"Sure" I then grab William's hand and pulled myself up to sit beside him, and brought Salette with me to join.

"So what's with your attire?" William asked me.

"Huh??" I turned to him. This question of his kind of caught me off guard. William faced me, his face as stoic as always, but his eyes said something else. He had.........deride??

"You heard me, Toprak" he blatantly replied, and I felt my cheeks warming up. Not by the sun, but by my own blood and my nervous emotions of blush.

"Oh yes! This reminds me too. You are dressed up exceptionally well today. This Prussian blue dress, and these blue hibiscuses on your hair. I wonder what's the reason, because you usually don't wear anything other than your normal clothes" Salette was the next to ask.

I looked at both of them simultaneously, and felt shamefully silent, not because I didn't know the answer, but because I was too timid to speak it out loud. Even if it was infront of my two best friends.

I looked away, clearing my throat and really racking my brain to think of a dodge to this flustering question.

But then, according to the universal laws and truths that binds the realms together,

Mr. William Hillenberg is a bitch.

"Perhaps it's for...... impressing a certain someone??" His lips curved up into a smirk as he inched close to my face. My eyes widened, and I desperately scooted away from him, bumping to Salette. But instead of defending me, she grabbed my shoulders, and formed somewhat of a grin herself.

"Or is it for getting their attention?" The blonde added on. Shit. Fuck. She was clearly on the surgeon's side. This got me even more nervous.

"Hmmm....maybe I know who it is" She chuckled and pinched my pink cheek from behind.

"And so do I" William stroked my other reddened cheek. Both of them still had their teasing grin on each of their faces, as they fondled with me. Gods they both were killing me slowly from embarrassment.

"J-Jeez.....stop it! It's nothing like that" I protested.

"Are you sure Pipsqueak? You sure it isn't someone who is hypermetrophic?" William pressed more, closing up to me. It was very intimidating that how his eyes narrowed like that of a predatory cat.

"And also that he loves blue and hibiscuses of the same colour??" Salette squeezed my shoulders and chuckled near my ear, which sent shivers down my spine.

It really looked impossible to escape from them now. By how they knew why I was dressed up, and by how they knew for whom it was. It was fucking frightening and horrifying. That it got me this twisted and bamboozled. I really didn't seem to have any other choice other than to admit. Or maybe protest further, but that would lead to even worse bullying.

Fuck I was definitely cornered. Is there any way, ANY OTHER GODDAMN WAY, to escape this tight situation?? Because I was really living my own death right now. The murder of my own self because my response system was not working at all due to overdose of diffidence. All because of my best friends' curiousity about my love life. Just fucking amazing.

But oh lord thank you to the lovely sea lemons and the baby turtles that my prayers were answered, as a certain blue-haired angel ran to us hurriedly.

"Sal!! William!!" We heard the familiar voice from behind as we turned around at the same time, only to find the blue-headed soft tanned man for whom we all had been waiting for, stumbling his way down the pale sands as soon as he can, his hand waving to us.

"Erik!!" William instantly jumped off from the rocks and approached him, dismissing the recent mockery for now, and Salette too gracefully slides down the boulders to join William as she hugged Erik (@sylph-dreams) and wished him for his special day, while I just gazed at the two of them and the birthday boy with a smile on my face from above. The sea breeze playing with my hair and my dress.

"Many many happy returns of the day, Erik" William embraced him next and kissed his head, and I could hear Erik giggling from his touch as he kissed him back many times on his face.

"Hey hey stop" I heard William laugh, this slipped a chuckle from my throat. Erik then giggles and stops, pulling away from him. And that's when it happened.

He saw me.

When his eyes fell on me, he froze. He did not look away or even move himself. He just kept staring at me, with awe and wonder. His mouth was also in a small gape, as if he had just witnessed a silver blue dolphin making its gigantic leap across the waters, diving ever so poised back into its home. It was very adorable of him, however it seemed pretty amusing to me because, this was not the first time he had seen me dressing in such a manner. But how he reacted every time to it was worth watching and never forgetting. Truly.

"Don't open your mouth for so long, Erik" William pushes his chin up to shut his agaped mouth as Salette and I giggled to it. Soon after I too got off from the rocks and walked to the tanned man. As I grabbed both of his hands gently, looking into his eyes with a smile on my face, I whispered the words.

"Happy Birthday My Dear Erik~" I gently squeezed his bigger hands with mine, his warmth flushing through my cold palms.

Erik's cheeks turned a bit pink. "T-Thank you, Wynne. Thanks a lot" he said, and I flashed him another smile.

He rubbed my knuckles with his thumbs delicately. The corner of his lips were slightly curved upwards in a pleasant beam, as comforting as the last sun rays, and his eyes glimmering like heavenly orbs. He grinned wider and brought my hands closer to his lips till they touched weightlessly.

It was now my face's turn to heat from bloom, but it turned even more when I noticed him smirking at me from my hands, and his eyes were glowing with tease and mischief. I looked away, my lips pursed together as I tried my hard to resist the fluster.

Jeez why it had to be today that everyone satirise me more than ever?? Just why?!!!

"So this is why y'all invited me over to the beaches, because I was really thinking that you were calling me for a group swim haha!!" Erik laughed after he backed away from me, totally acting like he wasn't pawing me in front of my friends.

"We were initially planning to celebrate at the shop, but Wynne said that you liked staying near the sea. And me and William loved the idea, which is why we set up a small party for you here" Salette answered.

"Oh!! really?? A whole party just for me??" The bluenet's eyes shone like that of a exuberant child after spotting exclusive candies at his favourite grocer during errands.

"Why yes, My Dear. We all took some of our time out of our schedules to organise it. I wasn't actually wanting to attend the party and rather to just drop by personally to you with a gift, but Toprak and this blonde lady weren't leaving me alone, so that was one motivation" William nudged me while I rolled my eyes.

Erik laughed and patted William's shoulder. "I am glad Wynne and Sal forced you to come. The celebration would have been incomplete without my best friend yah know". William sighed and held Erik's hand, looking into his eyes.

"Yeah. I know" William replied with a weak smile. Erik then out of nowhere engulfed both Salette and William, catching both of them off-guard for a second, I chuckled at the scene. The two however embraced him back, bright twinkles on each of their faces.

"Thank you guys......I love yah both a lot......." Erik murmured. Honestly, I cannot even find words can describe the feeling of happiness which was literally radiating out of him. It was as strong as reflected white light, yet as gentle as the lake ripples. Very acute, yet at ease. I didn't know what it was, but it was gratifying by every angle.

Howbeit, as lost in my thoughts I was, I forgot about my consciousness until I felt soft strong arms engulfing me and pulling me closer to themselves. I blinked twice and looked up, and I was surprised, obviously.

"Umm.....Erik??" I awkwardly held his shoulder as I felt his arms gripping my waist tighter. I chuckled, hugging him back. Now this was expected yet also quite the opposite to my thoughts. I wondered the reason behind his actions, and the response came to me in two shakes.

"You deserve a separate hug, Princess" he simply answered. A clear rationale, though swelled my chest from a patent contentment of recieving such a direct affection from the birthday boy. Maybe that's the exact reason. Because he is the birthday boy. Or was it because of something else. Something more......closer...........

But as soon as I was about to open my mouth to speak, I felt rumbling down my stomach. It startled me as I jumped back a bit, damn it was pretty shaky too. But it didn't feel like it came from my body. I wondered who's was it. But then it hit me.

"Oh jeez. I am very hungry. Yah have something to snack on?" Erik asked. So it was his stomach which was speaking out its pleads that it was prominent enough to reach through me. It wasn't astonishing to me though. Poor man had been delivering goods from one place to another not caring about how long the distance was or how heavy the things weighed.

He has been working the whole day even on his birthday, it was pitiful. At least he should have taken a leave for that. But oh well, if he wants to carry his duty even during his special day, I would let him. I have no rights on him, but only when things turn dangerous, I am the one in-charge. Not that I don't trust him, I just want to protect him. But only when it's gravely needed. Otherwise he is strong enough to tackle.

"How about we have the cake and the other food right now?" Salette suggested. I didn't even notice the sun almost under the horizon after the hug. The sky had turned navy now, with the residual of the shining streaks lined up broadly. Like a tricolour, it had enveloped the globe, and the stars were finally appearing from their hideouts. It was very pleasant, almost like the sunset earlier, but with a disparate observe.

"I agree. We should start right away" William nodded.

"Wynne, can you bring the cake then?" The blonde requested me. "Sure" I shrugged and went to bring the main dessert. This time, I would have to say, was different than any other cakes I had prepared for my every other loved one's birthday. It had an ingredient I had never used previously, and it took me much much bargains to get it since it was not so frequent to be sold in the markets. A very rare exotic stuff. Not to mention I had never tasted it before. But by Salette's advice, I had baked it with her and William the same as Erik preferred it.

It was a purple yam cake, also called Ube cake. A traditional Filipino dish, and Erik's beloved favourite. All the struggles to get the main ingredient was worth it for him, as his face switching to glee and his words of adulation was more than enough to satisfy all of our efforts for him. His tears of joy at the end were a bit overwhelming though, but we accepted that. We didn't wanted to make him cry out in his birthday you know haha!

Nevertheless, Erik held us all close, not leaving any one of us behind, as he made his wish in his beautiful mind and blew the fire off the candles, with all three of us by his side.

Happy Birthday To You

Happy Birthday To You

Happy Birthday Dear Erik

Happy Birthday To You 💙💙💙💙💙💙💙

Erik had his bite of the cake from the piece, and the hearings of yumminess escaping from his lips second by second, a unique sound by every bite, was amusing and heartwarming to listen and witness. It was cute and youthful, just like him. That made us even more happier. William was delighted, much to his own satisfaction, and me and Salette were grateful for the little party going very well.

Later then we had deep fried tofu with blue tea. Sounds pretty light and effortless, but sufficient for all of our hearts and tummies. We had actually decided beforehand that nothing fancy would be there because Erik was the type of guy to like homely chattels and servings, and same was with us, no matter royals or not. Snugs were what we liked.

With the tea and blueberry scones, we all had our lovely time taken out from our usual livings specifically for our lovely man. The nature also forgave us and provided a nice cool ambience to suit us all. We gossiped, we argued, we laughed. It was a good friendly night. Nothing to disrupt us. Just the ocean waves and the starry sky, now what else do we need?

Oh....... presents..........

Now THIS was one of the most interesting part.

First was William, because he wanted to get it over with quick. Tch, how classic of him. He gave Erik a trinket of spiralling blue seashell fossil. Hmm....a practical and beautiful gift, how classic of him again!

Erik was really elated. He was about to smother William's whole face again with kisses that we had to stop him in the middle. Jesus I promise won't be surprised if I find them trying to eat each other someday.

Anyways. Salette, being the best girl as always, gave Erik what he absolutely loved. And that would be high heels. Noticing, fashionable ruby red high heels. Holy shit. Even I was impressed. And Erik even more. He was delighted! He hugged Salette pretty tightly that the poor lady had to gasp for air but kept laughing as if nothing was wrong. Gosh these dorks.

And finally was me. I......I actually didn't know what to gift him originally. I was in a dilemma. Because I was thinking of special, but also not too fancy, because I didn't want to inundate him so much. It was really messing with my mind to such a point that I had to escape to my realm. And I slept there, and kept thinking about him. But when I woke up, little did I know, that Erik's gift was ready, and was lying right in my hands.

It was a single pink pearl, shining against my palms. It's smooth light was welcoming, and its aura was dignified.

Though it was a bit bigger than the first toenail, it was perfect! And fitting! And I had decided that nothing else would have been the best gift for him. And when I finally handed him my present after we both were alone (William and Salette had decided to take a walk together down the sands), Erik went silent. I had gotten scared for a moment when he went speechless like that, that I had given him something which offended him.

But turns out I was wrong, when he pulled me closer to himself, and looked directly into me. I couldn't really read what he was reflecting from his eyes, but all I could see was myself, and some sparks in his jade orbs. I had gotten lost in them, they were beautiful, and didn't even notice that my chin was pulled and a quick kiss had been stolen from my very lips without me knowing about it.

"Thank you~" was the deep whisper which broke me from my trance, and I was left dumbfounded, with Erik not in front of me anymore. I blinked, shook my head, and searched for the man, only to find him walking along the other two. I wanted to join, but my legs seemed to not listen to me. And good thing they didn't listen, when I watched Erik running back to me and taking me into his strong arms facilely.

"Cannot forget the princess, yah know" he winked, this time leaving me speechless and flustered. Erik chuckled and kissed my cheek, then starting to follow his friends. I kept my mouth shut by the way, I wanted to enjoy this moment silently. With him, the ocean, the sky, and my two lovely friends.

[oddarin]

Quick thoughts after new chapter. Obviously slight spoilers.

- BATH SCENE ASFGSGHEFETGEHDGHDFGWEUIW *unhuman screams* just can't stop looking at that CG and back to work

- Lucio has the scar that looks suspiciously similar to one from self-harm or suicidal attempt. Maybe it is not, but it was my first thought when I saw it. (Maybe I just like angst too much and wish to think so. But I can quite imagine how he perform that kind of act being delirious and despaired after an amputation, clamping the dagger between his knees or holding it in his teeth, thinking as his life is ruined and beind mad that he even not beeing able to do it properly now. After all he came to thought that it was definitely not his brightest idea trying to cut himself in the medical tent being surrounded by doctors)

- Lucio doesn’t know how to calm himself down on his own when he is overwhelmed. Perhaps this is some root of his bad temper and explosive behavior (yelling, broking, damaging and throwing things when he needs to vent, as it is his only available option)

- Lucio is the good swimmer after all

- They have knowing not only about trains in their world (trains was mentioned in the last Muriel’s chapter) but also about wrist watch. That looks like that they live in some kind of steampunk world lol If not to think that it is just anachronism and carelessness in writing the script.

- Okay, I think I suddenly have a little crush on Valdemar now. As if it was too easy for me before 😂

- BATH SCENE. Fine, it’s inevitable. I cannot not to speak about it. I have a post in my drafts about it with some thoughts that it looks like Nadia categorically does not intend to offer her private bathroom to Lucio as she did it in others routes (I've expected this scene before the Masquerade, as I find it quite reasonable if they were send to take a bath before the party after all that Lazareth stuff, but.. they did't) as she had some bad previous experience, like Lucio might bathed with his dogs and use all luxury shampoo for them (because his babies are deserve all the best!). Buuut... well, cannon balls are not any better. So yes, she obviously had her reasons 😆 //And as it shows the option with separate bathing in the chapter, I was right! He is truly bathing with dogs :)

- When the new chapter comes out I always play it several times to see all the options. And gosh, I really don’t remember if I ever felt myself that bad before the choice as now on “Free me” option (I even needed to stop game and took several deep breath before I could keep reading after the choice. Too damn hard for my poor heart lol). But you know what? With choosing that option the chapter becomes much longer! And more interesting in a way. And this is an opportunity to meet the rest of the characters that have not appeared yet (though only Julian got a line, but I'm still glad). And dialogues after reunification with Lucio? Omg, I've totally melted. It is so amazing. So I definitely recommend to try that plot option - pure, 100% hurt/comfort as it is.

//sorry, too lazy for properly name edit this time

- And I’m sure that it was already mentioned but since it is obviously by now that  Lucio and MC are completely interchangeable in the ritual it's reveals almost undoubtedly that Lucio represents the Fool arcana. Congrats to all who believed and hoped :)

[morganlefaye79]

Morgan, Morgan, Morgan! I've cherry picked the fluff asks because I am evil. Any characters you like, and 13, 21, 36 and 39 for the oc asks!

Thank you for the ask! You've chosen well! 😁

If I really would want then I can turn even fluff into pain, mayhem and devastation! MUAHAHAHAHA!

13. WHAT DO THEY DO FOR FUN?

Watching the stars/falling stars:

Morgan/ Alistair

Gore/ Anders

Jonne / Cassandra

Reading/telling stories:

Dante/ Morrigan

Goldie/ Fenris

Nadia/ Josie

Some kind of sports/ sparring:

Aedan/ Ser Gilmore

Gretchen/ Sera

Vajk

21. WHAT IS THEIR FAVORITE THING ABOUT THEIR PERSONALITY?

This was a tough one and I needed some time to answer this question.

FUN FACT: I realised that all my OC's share one thing. None of them would ever give up as long as winning is an option. Hope dies last!

I guess that's a good thing that you can have 😉

36. WHAT IS THEIR SENSE OF HUMOR LIKE? GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF A JOKE THEY WOULD FIND HUMOROUS.

Kahlan/ Morgan / Gretchen:

-I told my friend she was drawing her eyebrows too high.

-She looked surprised.

Nava/ Gore/ Goldie/ Jonne/ Dante:

-Did you hear about the mathematician who’s afraid of negative numbers?

-He’ll stop at nothing to avoid them.

Aedan/ Dagur/ Linea/ Nadia/ Aeryn:

-Hear about the new tavern called Karma?

-There’s no menu: You get what you deserve.

They all share mostly bad and/or anti-jokes.

39. WHAT DOES THEIR HAPPILY EVER AFTER LOOK LIKE?

I love this one <3 and because of that I will answer this question for all pairings (except my Inquisitors, because they are not that far developed yet) even when there is no happy end but you asked me. You should have known 😉!

Aedan/ Ser Gilmore:

Either one or both die at different times in most of my HC, but I have one fuzzy warm happy ending for them 😆.

After being cured from the taint, they both leave the grey wardens and buy a little farm where they work and live together for the rest of their lives. Without anyone knowing who they are.

Dagur/ Natia:

They inherit the throne after the former king dies. I didn't specify much more yet but I guess they will have at least one baby.

Dante/Morrigan:

This Relationship is mostly canon with the difference that he will not leave Kieran and Morrigan but will be with them during Inquisition. Because other Wardens are searching for the cure.

Kahlan/ Leliana:

They are married but only few people know that, Kahlan never left Leliana's side after the fifth blight even if you cannot spot her. She is there. When Leliana becomes Divine, Kahlan becomes her personal bodyguard. When she doesn't become Divine, they go back to Ferelden. I am not sure but Leliana might become Fereldens spymaster.

Linea/ Zevran:

After the blight Linea travels with Zevran, they go to the Free Marches to find her clan, she is enraged when she finds out that they casted Merrill out and left the clan to never return.

She goes to Kirkwall to find Merrill and they refresh their friendship and write letters to one another. Then they go to Antiva to bring revenge to the Crows.

When they are done fighting they finally settle down (she is cured from the taint) in Antiva, get married and starting a Family.

Morgan/ Alistair:

I have too many HC for them, some very bad and some very sweet. Hm.

OK. Fine I pick a sweet one :)

After the fifth blight Morgan becomes Warden Commander and Alistair is ordered by Weißhaupt to leave Ferelden. He disobeyes and stays at Morgans side. after the events in Awakening, Morgan and Alistair disappear for some time. Morgan made Nathaniel Howe Warden Commander before they left. Some years later they were seen together as they were searching for a cure, which they found after the events of trespasser. They both are cured and they also cure every grey warden that comes to them and asks to be freed from the taint. They find a cozy cabin in the countryside where they settle down. A year later their fist child is born and shortly after a second child. On many occasions they were asked to mingle in politics because of their birthrights (royal bastard/high-ranked nobility) but they always refused.

Nava/Cullen:

When this is not a slowburn then i don't know what is! Oh wait, what? Nah I cannot write slowburns, I don't have enough patience for that. But this is more like a woman runs after a man. It sounds worse than it is actually. Their happily ever after is as at the end of Inquisition stated when Cullen romances the Inquisitor with kids of course because I love kids.

Gore/ Anders:

Cry when I'm gone

Sorry, no happy end

Goldie/Fenris:

This is a happy end in a very unconventional way. Both Goldie and Fenris are free spirits need their own space and work. They have a more open relationship. When they meet up they stay together, sometimes for days, weeks, months or even years until one of them goes their own way again.

Eventually they are getting too old to run around and settle down. They then live in the same house, but both with their own space.

[storiesbyjes2g]

Genetics & Story Summary

Genetics

Even though we all know Melany looks nothing like Kameron, she doesn’t look exactly like Brytani either. Like, most of the time, I don’t feel like I’m looking at a younger Brytani. But they look so much alike I can’t tell what the differences are. Last night I decided to find out how they are different. I found Brytani in another save and aged her down. I aged Kameron down and took off his beard and skin details so we can really see him. I also took away Mel’s details even though they don’t change her much. I made a picture with them all side-by-side to compare.

How about I never really realized Melany had a dimpled chin! And, how cool is it to learn Kameron gave it to her! (I feel like she should write a song about him called Dimpled Chin lol) I’m guessing her cheeks come from him because Noemi also has high, cute chubby cheeks as well. Mel’s face seems to be a little longer than Brytani’s, also compliments of Kameron, but I knew that one already. There is something about their eyes though. I can’t really tell what it is, but they are not the same. Are Brytani’s wider or something?

As far as skin tone goes, Mel is right in the middle, a shade darker than Brytani and a shade lighter than Kameron. I still think it’s funny how EA measures what is light and dark, but we won’t get into that in this post...or maybe ever lol.

Story Summary

This may get long, so I’ll put it under the cut.

Recently I welcomed my new followers and told you about my story. I appreciate everyone who has hopped on for the ride! 😘 So many of you have joined in on this silly little legacy drama, and I don’t want anyone to be lost. I’m going to catch you up so you know who everyone is and what’s going on because I don’t expect you to go back to the beginning, although it doesn’t take very long. I did that a few months ago. It was fun!

Ok! So you’ve met Melany and her parents. Kameron started this whole thing as my guy to save Strangerville. Afterward, I figured I would continue playing with him and give him a much deserved good life. He had the world famous celebrity aspiration, so he started hanging out in DSV and rubbing shoulders with celebrities. That’s how he met Brytani Cho and thus creating our dear, sweet Melany. But, Brytani is not about that relationship life, and things fizzled after he attempted to propose to her.

It didn’t take long for her to leave. Bye Felicia.

Kameron and Melany left Strangerville for a new life in Oasis Springs. He joined the intelligence branch of the military and moved up the ranks. It was tough being a single dad, but he made it work.

Brytani was hyper-focused on her career and made very little time for Melany, and Kameron held that against her. Needless to say, their relationship was never the same, and co-parenting was no walk in the park. Melany, however, attempted to make the best of her mother’s visits, though she wished she visited more often.

Eventually Kameron moved on completely and began dating. He had a few flings and a few dates, but when he met Nadia, he was like a moth to flame.

They messed around a lot, and it didn’t take long for him to ask her to be his girlfriend. They dated for a while before he asked her to move in. He needed to see how things would work with her and Melany. It delighted Kameron to see how well they took to each other. I mean, Melany was an exceptional kid. Who wouldn’t love her? Nadia did and took her role in Kameron and Melany’s lives very seriously once she understood the family dynamics.

Nadia’s pregnancy and the engagement happened around the same time. They had a son named Nathaniel Courtney Pierson, whom they call Nate. Life was very busy with a new baby, new house, and new city (Willow Creek). Once life settled down a little, they were married in Sulani.

It should be noted that Melany began playing the violin at a young age. Kameron took her to El Selvadorada once, and it rained almost the whole time. She was going through a loud phase and picked up the violin; she loved it. She completed all 5 child aspirations which gave her a boost at learning adult skills. By the time she was a teenager, she had maxed the violin skill and had written her first song! She also started a SimTube channel. Between her two celebrity parents and the videos, she was a 4 star celebrity by her teen birthday.

Teen life for Melany was pretty average—aside from the celebrity madness. She had a group of friends she loved. She was on top of her studies and made A’s. She didn’t give her parents any trouble.The only complaint she has was with her mother. Brytani retired and came around more often, but still not often enough. By this time, Melany’s little sister, Noemi Amiah Pierson, was born, and she saw what she missed by not having two parents in the same house. Nadia was an excellent step-mother. Melany didn’t want for anything, and she loved and appreciated her. But she had a mother. Why couldn’t Brytani be like Nadia? Was something wrong with her? Did Brytani love her at all? She was secretly jealous of her young siblings, and those feelings ate away at her. She became withdrawn, cried a lot and made angry videos, but it didn’t help. Brytani was still a deadbeat mom. Melany expressed her frustrations once, but Brytani couldn’t make her feel better. She wasn’t the motherly type and thought Melany would be fine with Nadia not realizing the girl just needed her mom.

Things got slightly better in their relationship, but this would always be a thing between them. Even now, long after Brytani’s death, Melany still feels conflicted about their relationship.

The Piersons moved to Sulani. Melany aged up and went to Britechester University to study Fine Arts. She stayed in the dorms her first semester and had two roommates. That’s how she met her current best friend, Dr. Anissa Thurston. She studied biology and felt a connection with Melany immediately. Being a popular celebrity, Anissa knew everyone would be all over her and act weird. She just saw a fellow freshman nervous about being in a new place and hoping everything would be ok and made it her business to befriend Melany. Little did she know their shared Bailey Kay fandom would create a near indestructible bond.

Like any overprotective father, Kameron struggled with Melany going to college. He wanted her to stay at home for the first semester. And, as one could imagine, he was not ready for boys. Luckily, he made a friend in an elderly gentleman named Myron Churchill. He never had an older friend who could advise him from experience—a father figure. Mr. Churchill’s friendship became precious to him and helped a great deal.

Melany met Nick Wilkinson at a party. She felt uncomfortable about the outfit her friend made her wear on top of everyone looking at and whispering about her being a celebrity and all. Nick approached her and started a conversation. He made her feel better and was terribly cute. All they did was talk, but he definitely left an impression on her.

Brytani died, and Melany withdrew from school for the rest of the year. Nick called to see how she was and to express his condolences, and that’s how their friendship began. He was a huge movie buff and studying drama at Foxbury Institute to become an actor. He also was a huge nerd and avid gamer. Melany is also a gamer as Kameron was a gamer geek and raised her on video games and sci-fi. They were “friends” for a long time before he asked her out. After dancing around each other for so long, it didn’t take long for them to begin an official relationship.

They graduated, and Melany goes back home to Sulani to figure out the rest of her life. At this point she had written and licensed 7 songs and had a few small performances. She loved performing but wasn’t sure if she wanted to be a full blown artist like her idol, Bailey Kay. Also, up until this point she had only been a musician. Few know this, but Melany is also a singer. She keeps it private, but the girl is talented. Despite this talent, she never considered being a singer or writing lyrics to her songs. But sometimes she hears words in her head. They repeat themselves and won’t go away, so she began writing them down. After having this experience a few times, she felt her music life changing and needed professional advice and reached out to Bailey Kay (after much coaxing from friends and family) who gave her some wise words.

Eventually, Melany decided to live in Brytani’s mansion in Willow Creek which she inherited. The thought of living there used to give her pause, but she wanted to be closer to Nick and her friends because traveling from Sulani to San Myshuno and Del Sol Valley was getting to be too much. Besides, she was a grown woman now and needed to get on with her life. Also, she felt like she caused the problems Kameron and Nadia had briefly in their marriage. She invited Anissa to live there as her roommate because she didn’t want to live alone and wasn’t ready to have Nick move in yet. But, soon after, he approached her about the idea and she agreed it was an excellent idea.

That’s pretty much where we are now. Melany and Nick are living their best lives together. Nick is a dynamic actor and getting more popular by the day. Anissa finally got a job as a doctor and is looking forward to dating since getting over the breakup...that Melany caused. Yikes. We’ll hear from her about that soon, so I won’t steal her thunder, but I will say it almost ruined their friendship!

I hope this was helpful for the newcomers and nostalgic for the OGs. If you have questions along the way, just ask! 

[starblazerm31]

If you’re taking requests, how about a main six headcanon where the MC had children that they’ve left when they died and being reunited with. How would the LIs go about welcoming them/seeing them for the first time? To narrow it down let’s say 8-4yrs old Sorry if too specific

OMG the feels on this one!!  Thanks, @animationexhilaration!

Requests open, btw!  Send me some more headcanons or kiss prompts!

Main 6 Meeting MC's Previous Children

Asra

Let's face it...he's the dad.

He's been waiting for this moment for so long...he's wanted to re-introduce you to your children, but he was afraid that the memory of them would cause you to go catatonic again.

He sits you down and carefully tells you that the two of you have children.  He explains his reasons why he hadn't told you until now, and where they have been staying.

You had them before the Red Plague.  The older was 5, the younger was 4.  They lost you when they were still babies, so they have no memory of you.  And Asra has only sung your praises around them.

He asks if you would like to meet them.  Of course you would!!

After you have cleaned the entire shop top to bottom,  Asra leaves to get the children.

Few things in life have brought you to your knees.  But when wrap your arms around the two little angels in front of you...you crumble, weeping.

There is no mistaking it.  They are the perfect combination of your features and Asra's.

Asra wraps his arms around all three of you, and for the first time in four years, you share a family hug.

Things will be different now...but in the best way.  You now know that you truly belong and that you've always had the family you've longed for.

Get ready for morning magic during breakfast, happy laughter and squeals filling the shop and family trips to the magical realms.

Nadia

She is just as surprised as you to learn that you had children before you died.

It doesn't bother her in the least.  She talks with you about the possibility of meeting your children.  Would you like that?

The arrangements are made and your children are brought to the palace; Julian is on hand to help with any headaches/emergencies you may suddenly have.

Portia sees them first.  She gets them comfortable with some snacks and toys, has another servant watch them,  and then comes rushing to find you and Nadia.

You are terribly nervous when you reach the parlor.  You can hear them inside, playing and laughing.  Your fingers tremble on the doorknob.  Nadia puts a comforting hand on your shoulder and a kiss on your forehead.

You open the door and are greeted by the sight of two little twin cherubs, age 6, playing Stop/Go with the servant.

They are ushered up to you and Nadia, and you are just beside yourself.  You kneel down to them and introduce yourself.

You weren't expecting them to launch themselves at you like they did.  But you end up on your back on the floor with YOUR adorable twins covering you in hugs and kisses.

They are entranced by Nadia.  She is the most beautiful person they have ever laid eyes on.  One asks "Are you a princess?"  To which Nadia replies "Yes I am, in my home country.  Here, I am the Countess."

You spend the day with your children and not a single headache.  The more you watch them and talk to them, the more you know...they are yours.  And you will never leave them ever again.

Arrangements are made for them to have their own room in the palace.  Nadia spoils the absolute hell out of them.  Tiny adorable matching outfits?  Oh yes.  Small shiny shoes?  You bet.  They look like little porcelain dolls all day every day.  Even their play clothes are gorgeous.

But your favorite times are when they crawl into bed between you and Nadia at night.  The best most wonderful family hug as you all drift off to sleep.

Julian

You could hear a pin drop from a mile away when the two of you found out.

Julian loves kids.  And he loves you.  Of course, he will love your kids.

The two of you discuss the possibility of meeting your children, and the effect it may have on you.  Once Julian is satisfied, you begin to make plans.

Asra will bring the children to you at the shop.  Julian frets over his eyepatch, worried that it will frighten the children.

The two of you stare at the shop door with anticipation/anxiety.  When it opens, Asra steps in with the children following close behind.  You hear a whimper from Julian as the two of you look upon two adorable little gifts, ages 6 and 8.

The eight-year-old bursts into tears upon seeing you and launches themself into your arms.  They tell you in between sobs how much they missed you.  The six-year-old patiently waits for a turn to hug you.  Their sibling remembered you more and therefore was hurt the most when you died.

You spend the day with them, learning about them and gazing at them in wonder.  Eventually, the six-year-old gathers up the courage to ask Julian if they can have a piggyback ride.  Of course Julian obliges and the child is awestruck at how high up they are on his shoulders.

You take them to meet Mazelinka and Portia.  They fawn over the children, remarking on their resemblance to you.  The eight-year-old is very shy at first, but when they taste Mazelinka's soup, they simply can't stop talking.

You're surprised at how mature your young children seem to be.  But that can be expected when you lose your family so suddenly.  You like how plainspoken you can be with them and they both seem to understand.

Eventually, you ask if they would like to live with you.  Be a family again.  Naturally, they accept.

The first time the older one calls Julian "dad," you have to practically mop him up off of the floor.  And when they both later proclaim that they wanted to be doctors, his face shines like a beacon of pride for a solid week.

Muriel

He knew.  Of course, he knew.

He's really nervous about the possibility of meeting your children.  He's worried that he will scare them.  But he knows this is important to you, so he will muster up all of his courage.

When you meet them, Muriel's anxiety goes into overdrive.  They are tiny.  They are age 6 and 4.  The 6-year-old doesn't remember you very well and the 4-year-old doesn't remember you at all.

They stare up at him in wonder, not fear.  They have never ever seen someone so big.  They ask if he is a giant.  Muriel turns bright red.

The four of you spend the day walking through the forest.  Muriel is shocked when the 6-year-old points to one of Muriel's protective charms up in the trees and says that they feel his energy in it.  They ask if he can teach them how to make charms.

Muriel freezes in absolute terror when they start to climb up him.  They're very light to him, so the weight doesn't bother him; what worries him is that they might fall and get hurt.  So he carries them both.

Inanna is very protective of them from the start.  She smells your scent in them and tends to walk very close to them.  If they stray too far from the paths, she herds them back.  The children love her.  She allows them to pet and hug her.

You end the day at the hut.  Muriel cooks dinner for all of you while the children play with Inanna on the floor.  All the while, he's giving you shy glances; like he wants to ask you something.

The person who has been caring for your children comes to reclaim them.  Muriel tries to hide his tears as they wave goodbye to you and promise to see you again soon.

Once they are out of sight, you look to Muriel who is staring at his hut.

"Needs to be bigger," he says.  "So they can stay."

Portia

Being the amazing info gatherer she is, she is the one who comes across the information about your children.  She tries to break it to you easy but gets far too excited.  You're not exactly sure how to handle this info.

The two of you have a long sit-down with Mazelinka about your kids.  What should you do?  What if they hate you for being out of their life for so long?  How do you even deal with kids?

Long story short, you end up at Portia's cottage a few days later, staring awkwardly at two young children who stare just as awkwardly back.

"Yep, MC.  They're yours."

You and Portia show them around the palace gardens.  Each time you come across a guard, they salute your group.  Soon the children find themselves saluting back.  It brightens the guards' day.

Eventually, you end up at Mazelinka's place, and she sets to work fretting over the children.  She makes them a fantastic lunch and soon everyone is sitting around listening avidly to Mazelinka tell stories.

Afterward, you take them to your shop and show them around.  They are captivated by all of the charms and potions that you have made.  Portia nudges you.  You've earned cool points with your kids.

You make your way back to the palace just as dusk is setting in.  While Portia cooks dinner, you and your kids play in the grass.

As you all eat, Portia flat out asks "So do you want to stay?"

You look to your children, your eyes pleading.  You haven't been there for them, but now you are.  You want to love them like they clearly deserve.  You want them back as your family.

The children agree;  now they have not only two loving parents, but a loving uncle and honorary great-grandma who teaches them all of the really cool tricks behind their parents' backs.

Lucio

He is shaken to the core.

It's not that he doesn't like kids...he just never knew how to deal with them.  His own childhood wasn't exactly a prime example of how children and adults should interact.

Though don't let him keep you from seeing your children!  Hell, he'll make the arrangements immediately!  He'll also ask Portia for some advice on how to behave.  (Help me, Porsh, heeeeeelp meeeeeee!!!)

When the children arrive at the palace, Lucio is blindsided by how cute they are.  He sees you in their faces, and that immediately endears them to him.  They freaking tackle you.  They are 7 and 8, and both remember you.  They knew you would come for them.  They knew.  Magical kids are great, huh?

They are well behaved, but you can see a little bit of rapscallion in them.

Lucio is kinda unsure what to do.  So you encourage him to talk about what he knows best.  Himself.  Their eyes light up at his stories.  Who cares if they're blown completely out of proportion, those kids are captivated.  And Lucio loves it.

Then they see his animals.  And his weapon collection.  And his palace.  And then...just when they thought it couldn't get any better...Lucio suddenly strips off his boots and teaches them how to sock skate throughout that palace.

Turns out Lucio is a natural with your kids.  Yeah...they're not leaving.

The days seem blissfully fuller, and Lucio now has two kids who love playing pranks with him, sparring with him, listening to his stories, and playing with his dogs.

He gets some great new portraits commissioned.  Your favorite is the one where Lucio and your kids all dress exactly alike and strike the same cheesy heroic pose (and all holding wooden toy swords, but Lucio's is HUGE).  But the best one is on display in the palace entryway.  The four of you together, all looking the happiest you've ever been.

Ko-Fi  ☕

[queenxxxsupreme]

dad!witchers with their newborns

A/N: @ella-animine suggested skin to skin time with dad!witchers and their babies and I have got to say this is the sweetest and softest idea I’ve ever come across. Remember if you want to be on my taglist go here and for more dad!witchers content go to my masterlist here :)

Warnings: none really, mentions of labor I think?

Word Count: 1.2k

Lambert 

“Unlace your shirt, love.”

“Are you trying to get me naked?” 

You rolled your eyes, shifting your hold on Eva. 

“If I wanted you naked for whatever it is your perverted mind is thinking, I wouldn’t have our daughter in my arms.”

He sighed heavily. 

“Cockblock.” He muttered and complied with your orders, undoing the laces to his shirt. 

“You’re lucky she doesn’t know what you’re saying.” You looked down at her, smiling softly at the precious newborn. “I have to run to the market. While I’m gone, you get to hold her.”

The witcher scrunched his nose up at your words, watching you pull Eva from your chest and place her carefully into his arms. 

“Why do I have to be practically shirtless?”

“Skin to skin contact with her  is good for both of you.”

“How do you know that?”

“I found a book at a little shop not too far away. Had some really wonderful things in it.” You moved his shirt a little more out of the way and fixed his hold on her. He was still learning the proper way to hold her. 

“Like this?” He asked quietly, wanting to make sure he was doing it right. He held one hand under her bottom and the other on her back. His hand was so large that it covered nearly the whole expanse of her back. 

“Perfect.” You smiled down at him, pressed a kiss to his forehead and then a kiss to Eva’s temple. “I’ll be back shortly.”

***

When you arrived back home, you placed the newly purchased items on the table. Lambert still sat at the table with Eva in his arms. It didn’t look like he had moved at all except to retrieve a small blanket that Eva was bundled up in.

“How was it?” He asked quietly. 

“Busy. How was she?” You went to him and fixed the blanket just a little around Eva’s shoulders. It covered her back but also left her to lay directly on Lambert’s chest. 

“Started crying a little after you left. Gave me a damn headache but I managed to get her to calm down and she fell asleep.”

“My poor baby has a headache.” You kissed Lambert’s forehead. He scrunched his nose up and grunted in displeasure. 

“What’s with you and all these damn forehead kisses?”

“You don’t like it?” You raised a brow, teasing him. He didn’t like simple acts of affection and to be honest, neither did you. But you hadn’t really thought about the little kisses here and there. But now that he asked about it, you were going to mess with him. 

“No. If you’re gonna kiss me, do it the right way.”

“Then maybe I just won’t kiss you.” You smirked a little as you turned to go back to the table. “Ever again.”

“Good.” He muttered, eyes flickering down to Eva. She stirred just a little. “Don’t wanna kiss you anyways.”

“Good.”

You knew he was playing along to your teasing game. 

“That’s too bad, you know.” You pulled the items, some fresh produce and bread, from the basket and set them on the table. “I was hoping we could have just another.”

“Another? Another what?” Lambert tilted his head down to watch Eva as her eyes opened and she yawned. The simple action warmed the witcher’s heart. 

“Another child.”

His head snapped up to look at you, eyes widening ever so slightly.

“Another? So-So soon?”

“Oh, gods no. After she gets a little older, perhaps four or so.”

When you heard no reply from him, you looked over your shoulder to the witcher holding your daughter. He was looking down at her, his hand carefully rubbing up and down her back. 

You turned around so you could watch him better, admiring the little fire in his eyes. He loved her more than anything, you knew this. He was a gruff man, difficult to get along with, but his daughter had the ability to soften him into a Lambert that very few had the privilege of witnessing.

“I…. I think another one would be nice.” He admitted quietly, eyes flickering over to you briefly before he returned his gaze to Eva. 

Eskel

The witcher was up the second Nadia began to cry. You stirred a little, still dazed from slumber, and started to get out of bed.

“No, doll, I’ve got it.” He assured you, resting one hand between your shoulder blades.

“Are you sure?” You yawned, rubbing your eyes. “You always get up to get her.”

“I don’t mind at all.” A warm kiss was pressed to the tip of your nose. He pulled the blankets back up over you and made his way across the bedroom to Nadia’s crib.

Very carefully, he picked up the four day old infant and placed her against his chest. He tried copying what he had seen you do when she cried. You’d gently bounce her, hushing her, whispering to her. 

“Shh, little girl.” Eskel was careful to not speak too loud. He didn’t want to chance his deep and rough voice scaring her. “Daddy’s right here. Shhh.”

However, this didn’t seem to work. She still screamed and cried. 

He did his best to remember how you would calm her down. Since the bouncing and talking wasn’t working, he had to try something else. He remembered how you told him the first day she was born that skin to skin contact was good for Nadia, that it was like a spell. It could calm her down and make her feel comfortable. 

Eskel carefully placed her back down into her crib and unfastened the little buttons on her sleeper before pulling her out of it. Her skin was so soft and warm and free of any imperfections. For a split second, he worried that if he placed his large and scared hands upon the infant, it would taint her skin, make her into the monster he was. 

The witcher shook his head as if he was shaking the invasive thought from his mind. He picked her back up along with a little blanket, and went to sit on his side of the bed he shared with you.

He fixed his hold on her so that she could rest on his chest while he leaned back against the headboard. He carefully put the blanket up over her little back, tucking it in where he could so she would stay warm. 

Her cries died down. Her frantic little heartbeat steadied. Her eyes closed and her tense frame loosened up. She pressed her cheek against his chest over a scar that cut right above his heart. 

Eskel looked down at her, a rare smile finding its way to his scarred lips. 

You were pulled from your light sleep when she finished crying, your mother’s instincts telling you that you just had to make sure she was okay before finally drifting off to sleep. 

You opened your eyes, expecting to see your husband laying in bed next to you. But what you found was him holding your daughter.

You propped yourself up on one elbow and smiled a little at him, brushing your hair out of your face.

“You are so good with her.” You complimented, leaning forward to kiss his bare shoulder.

“She’s…. She’s the only thing I’ve done good in my life.” His words were quiet whispers, too afraid to talk any louder. 

“That isn’t true.” You softly protested, scooting up in the bed so that you could sit beside him. “You’ve saved people, Eskel. You’re a hero.”

He shook his head a little, drawing his attention back down to Nadia.

“I didn’t have control over that, over becoming a witcher. But…. But this I did.”

You rested your cheek against his shoulder, looking down to your precious little baby.

“You’re a good father.”

Geralt 

“Are you okay, dove?” Geralt asked quietly as you moved around a little, carefully holding Bram in your arms. He was just a little less than an hour old. You’d been holding him to your chest for a while, chatting quietly with your husband when he noticed a look of discomfort on your face.

“Just…. Just tired is all.” You answered, giving him a little smile. Your eyes fell down to Bram, whose eyes were open and gazing up at you. “He’s so beautiful, Geralt.”

“He is.” The witcher agreed, leaning forward to rest his elbows on the edge of the bed. You pulled one hand away from Bram. He was resting on your bare chest with one of your hands on his back. “I’m so proud of you.” Geralt took your hand to kiss your knuckles. 

“I wouldn’t have been able to do this without you.” You reminded him. You yawned, pulling your hand from Geralt to cover your mouth. “Would you hold him while I sleep? Just for a little bit. I’m exhausted.”

“Of course.” Geralt nodded his head. He stood to his feet to take Bram, who immediately started to cry. 

“Give him back to me for a moment, Geralt.” You told him. With a frown on his lips, he did as you requested. “Take your shirt off so you can lay him directly on your chest. He likes to feel my heartbeat and hear it. Perhaps he’d be more comfortable if he hears yours as well.”

Geralt pulled the shirt off and set it on the bed out of the way. As he took Bram from you, Bram began to cry.  

“It’s okay, love. He’ll stop in a moment.” You told him. 

“Like this?” He asked, placing Bram on his chest just over his heart. 

“Perfect.” You smiled softly, settling back into the pillows. 

Geralt carefully sat down, two large hands splayed across his son’s back. His hands were bigger than the newborn, dwarfing the little boy. Geralt took one hand away from Bram to grab his shirt, then used the article of clothing to cover Bram.

His crying ceased and Geralt looked down to make sure he was okay. Big gray eyes gazed up at him, curious. 

“He is indeed beautiful.” He whispered. “And incredibly tiny.”

You giggled softly, struggling to keep your eyes opened as you watched him. It was a sight to see, the witcher holding his son. It was something you didn’t want to look away from, but exhaustion got the best of you and soon, you were asleep.

Geralt brought his gaze back down to Bram, smiling softly. He was a precious gift, one the witcher never felt he deserved.

“I love you.” The words were breathed against the infant’s forehead. Geralt pressed a kiss to Bram’s warm skin and settled back into his seat.

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[probably-writing-x]

Admittance pt.4

Guzmán x Reader

Request by anon: Hi~ Do you think that Admittance (Guzman x Reader) can be turned into a mini series??? Basically just drabbles about reader's pregnancy..

Gif is not my own

Requests are open🤍

The next few weeks went comfortably smoothly as your pregnancy continued. Guzmán had ended up staying at yours more often than not and you found yourself reaching the end of your first trimester. You could notice more and more in yourself how the little things had changed. And gradually, your bump began to inevitably grow. It was Guzmán who mentioned it first - glancing down at your stomach like he feared your reaction if he mentioned it. You’d done your best to cover up where you could and tried to limit anybody seeing as much as possible. Telling Guzmán, telling your family, that all seemed doable. But telling the remaining group at Las Encinas? You’d avoid it for as long as you could. Though, certain focused eyes at school couldn’t hold off for too long.

It was Rebeca that noticed first, laughing at how you’d worn a jumper over your uniform.

“Anyone would think you’ve got something to hide!” She jokes, “Anything you want to tell us?”

You couldn’t act quick enough to hide the blush on your cheeks.

“Fuck!” She leans forward in the chair, “Are you pregnant (Y/n)?”

Ander and Omar both look up with widened eyes, watching the secret unfold that they’d been keeping for weeks now. Samuel looks at you with the same expression as Rebeca - pure and utter shock. Guzman’s jaw clenches and so do his fists.

“I-“ You fumble a little, “I... yeah, I am.”

“Holy shit (Y/n)!” Rebeca exclaims, “You’re full of surprises. How far along are you?”

“Thirteen weeks,” You say bashfully, looking down at your hands.

“Summer fling, huh?” She laughs, “Well, congrats!”

“How are you feeling?” Samuel asks, his brows furrowing.

Guzmán walks over and clasps him on the shoulder, “I’m sure a thousand questions from you is the last thing she needs.”

You look at him and gulp down the lump in your throat.

“Come on, we’ll be late for class,” Guzmán encourages and waits for the two of them to get up.

You watch them whisper to each other as they walk away and Ander, Omar and Guzmán all crowd around you.

“They were bound to find out eventually,” You shrug, standing up from the table, “We should go.”

Omar and Ander look at you sympathetically before they walk out, Ander muttering something to Omar that you assumed would be his typical protective attitude.

“(Y/n),” Guzmán stops you by grabbing your hand, “It’s okay, you know?”

You glance down at his hand over yours. The two of you still hadn’t spoken about that kiss at the hospital. What would you say? How would you question something that was supposed to mean nothing?

“If anyone says a thing, you tell me okay?” He assures you, “I won’t have anyone be rude.”

You laugh a little, “They don’t even know you’re the father.”

“They will do if they get on the wrong side of you, understood?” He says the words with a smile and you know he’s trying to make you feel better. Though you also knew he meant what he said. He wouldn’t dare let anyone disrespect you or that baby.

- - - - - -

Things took a turn when Christmas started to approach and all of the Las Encinas students started to return from their universities. Lu and Nadia came back from New York, Carla came home, and piece by piece the normal group started to reunite. Needless to say, news travelled fast about your pregnancy - nobody knowing who the father was but plenty of people placing their moneyless bets. You’d heard talk around the school as more and more people learnt of your news but you tried to keep yourself away from it as much as possible. As did Guzmán. He made sure to stick to his word and talk down anyone who made a snide comment. Ander had done the same to a few people too.

The swim gala would be the first time you’d seen everyone again. They’d all followed tradition and agreed to watch the gala as they would have done when they were students here. Guzmán was competing so you found it impossible to find an excuse not to attend. There was only so long you could hide from the students who’d known you for so many years. Only so long you could continue to be (Y/n) - not the pregnant one.

“Hey!” Omar grins when he sees you, standing up to give you a hug, “We got good seats.”

You smile and sit alongside him and Ander, “Did I miss anything?”

“Just Guzmán getting stressed because we’d left you home alone,” Ander rolls his eyes, “I told him exactly what you said.”

You roll your eyes, “He worries about everything.”

You knew he hadn’t trained as much for this as he should’ve done - he’d been spending too much time with you. But, no matter how much you encouraged him that he didn’t have to, he’d still be with you every morning and every night that he could. Once again, not faltering from his promise.

It doesn’t take long before the gala starts filling up with people and you notice a familiar crowd all enter. Lu, Nadia, Carla, Valerio, Malick... all of them filter through the door and take seats on the opposite side to you. You see their eyes go directly to you, your stomach, your changed appearance - before instantly turning to each other with hushed discussion. It’s only Nadia that comes over to greet you and give you her congratulations.

“I just wanted to say my congratulations, you must be so excited!” She smiles, “I’m sure nervous too but you’re more than capable of being an incredible mother.”

You smile fondly at her comment, “Thank you, I really appreciate it. What have the others said?”

She glances over her shoulder towards them and lets out a sigh, “They’re judgemental, you know they are. They’ve been talking about it nonstop. I’m sorry (Y/n), I guess they’re just not very accepting.”

“Yeah, no, it’s to be expected right?” You shake your head, “I’ll see you after, okay?”

She gives you a sympathetic look before going to take her seat as you sink back down into yours. How could you expect any different? They wouldn’t see you as their classmate anymore. They’d see you as the girl who had completely changed her future. Who had failed her year at school and now had practically set up to fail this year too. The girl with the random, meaningless summer fling that had resulted in life altering consequences. You weren’t (Y/n) to them anymore. You were the teenage Mum.

You try your best to dismiss it as the gala begins and the crowd erupts with cheers for different people, all sounding like drowned out noise to you. It feels like everything’s simply happening around you, up to when Guzmán walks out.

He pauses as he walks past you, a frown overshadowing his features, “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, yeah, I’m fine,” You assure him, “Good luck!”

He knows he can’t stop for any longer as he hurried to catch up with the rest of the swimmers as they board their platforms. His eyes glance over to the group on the other side and then back to you. Did he know? Had he seen them talking about you? How long would he put up with it when it was people that he cared about the opinions of, and not just a random kid from your year?

Despite his lack of training, Guzmán still manages to win his heat in a solid time as the other swimmers come in close behind him. It all looks so natural to him. Would your baby have the same athleticism?

He doesn’t worry about celebrating any sort of win or checking his time, he’s straight over to you and the boys. He crouches down in front of you and frowns.

“What’s going on?” He questions, scanning your face as worry spills over his skin.

You glance up and see the group on the other side all watching, evidently realising things they hadn’t done before.

He follows your eyes and watches them, his jaw clenching, “What did they say?”

“Nothing, honestly, it was nothing,” You encourage, “Come on, you’ve got more races to do. Don’t worry about it.”

He squeezes your leg and stands up, turning to Ander and Omar, “You come find me if anything happens, okay?”

It killed you. How would they react to him being the father? They’d always been closer friends to him than you’d been with them. Even with Lu as his ex girlfriend. He’d already lost Polo and Marina - could he survive losing all of his other friends just because of this baby?

As he walks the length of the pool, he keeps his eyes harshly focused on them and you know there are a thousand words he’s wishing he could say to all of their prying eyes. You’re relieved when Nadia keeps her head down - she hardly deserved to be caught in the crossfire.

- - - - - -

It’s after Guzmán comes second in the final that he clearly loses his patience with them. They’d done nothing but whisper amongst themselves about their supposed revelation and were treating you like the latest gossip and nothing more. He’d seen how it was getting to you and there was only so long that he could watch that as a bystander, and not the man who’d promised to shut down anybody who was disrespectful. Especially when they mattered to you.

He walks past the group one last time and stops in front of them. Oh god.

“Do you think this is funny?” He questions, eyebrows raised as water drips down from his hair, “Who do you think you are?”

He’s met with silence.

“You come back from university and, what? You’re suddenly all superior than us idiots that re-sat the year?” He scoffs, “But you just can’t help getting yourself caught up in some high school drama when one of your classmates is pregnant.”

Lu purses her lips, somewhat enjoying the demise of her ex more than she should do.

“Whatever you think, whatever stories you’ll come up with for how this all happened, it doesn’t matter,” Guzmán shakes his head, “Because you can get your fancy degrees from your top universities and start these careers that you think will shape the world... But I’ll tell you for certain, (Y/n) will do more with her life than you ever will. She’ll shape the life of that baby. Sure, we didn’t plan for this. But there isn’t anyone better I could imagine to be the mother to my child.”

It’s Ander that goes over to stop him, “Come on man, it’s not worth it.”

“What? You think it’s a shock that the baby’s mine?” He laughs, brushing off your brother, “Use that to fuel your gossip then, your petty, worthless gossip. But leave (Y/n) and our baby out of it. They’re worth a lot more than your whispering.”

Omar glances across to you from his seat and squeezes your hand like he’s trying to reassure you of the exact same point. It still felt weird to hear Guzmán talk about you like that. ‘Our baby’. Did he really think that highly of you? Or was it all just to silence them? You’d believe it was the latter, but something about the way he’d acted through this entire process made you have a slight leaning towards the prior.

You didn’t need to have the support of all of them. Instead, you watch Nadia stand up from her seat and come over to join you and her brother. And the five of you leave together. Not needing to explain yourself more than Guzmán already had.

- - - - - -

“Who do they fucking think they are?” Guzman’s lost his composure by the time he’s out of their earshot, “They’re sat there with smug looks on their face! What? Because they think we’ve ruined our lives? Bullshit!”

“Guzmán, calm down,” Ander sighs, holding his chest to stop him from launching back into that pool room and kicking off at them again, “You’ve said what you needed to say.”

“She doesn’t deserve seeing them act like that Ander! Don’t you think she’s already dealing with enough?!”

“Guzmán!” You exclaim as you come through the door, followed by Omar and Nadia.

Ander takes a step back and lets you take the lead, knowing you now had more power over his best friend than he did.

“It’s fine. You said it yourself, it’s worthless gossip,” You say, “I’m fine, the baby’s fine - isn’t that enough?”

He sighs and pulls you to him, wrapping his arms around you as his damp body sticks against your clothes, “I’m so sorry.”

“For sticking up for us?” You laugh, “Yeah that was a real dick move,” You roll your eyes sarcastically.

“You know what I mean,” He scoffs, “But you’re okay, yeah?”

“We’re fine, we said we should go and get some food. All five of us,”

Guzmán looks over your shoulder to see the other three stood together. That was more than enough. Three people that were willing to completely support the three of you. And for the first time in a long time, Guzman’s surrounded solely by good people. It’s refreshing.

“Yeah, I’ll go and get ready,” He nods, “I’ll meet you outside.”

He leaves you with a gentle kiss on your forehead before turning to walk into the changing rooms.

- - - - - -

Later that day, the five of you find yourselves crowding round a table for four at a cafe in town. You catch up with Nadia about New York, and she assures you that there’s always an open invite. You all decide on going over at some point, after the baby’s born. Guzmán gives you his jacket because your clothes were still damp from his impromptu hug and, somewhere along the line, Guzman’s arm falls around you like it’s so natural to be there. Maybe it’s when you’re all squeezing together to make room for Ander to sit down, he was just trying to make more room. Or maybe it’s when Nadia says about how proud she is of how maturely you’ve been handling the situation, or when Omar mentions the fear you’d had at that night at the hospital. All of these moments that could’ve been the cause. Or maybe Guzmán just felt it was right. Either way, it feels so utterly comfortable to be surrounded by all of them.

“Do you have a photo of the scan?” Nadia asks excitedly, “I completely forgot to ask!”

“Yeah, yeah, I’ve got one,” Guzmán nods, reaching into his pocket and pulling out his wallet.

He gets out the printed photo that was safely tucked into one side of the leather casing. It was your most recent scan - the first proper one. At twelve weeks.

“Here,” He hands it over, “So there’s the little arm and that right there is the head.”

Nadia looks at it in awe and mentions something about how tiny all of its features are as Omar leans over to look too. You instead turn to Guzmán and see how proud he looks. He still has a small smile on his lips and he’s leaning over the table like he can’t possibly take his eyes away from the photo for a moment. He looks brighter, his freckles more prominent, his eyes warm.

It doesn’t take him long to notice your lingering gaze.

“You okay?” He asks, eyes flicking down to your belly as they always did.

“Yeah,” You hold back a grin, “I’m good.”

Guzmán smiles and sits back in his chair, hand finding yours as your fingers lace together with such ease.

[empanator]

Countess Care

A fic I’ve been rushing to get out into the world since the Nadia is baby discussion (started by @prakranwomanswh0re) arose the other day. I don’t normally write stuff of this nature, but it had to be done! Nadia lovers, please enjoy taking care of the lovely Countess while she has a bad migraine :( (Brief guest appearances by Portia and Asra). 

Nadia x Apprentice; 2,187 words (4 full pages)

It’s the middle of the morning, and Nadia still hasn’t gotten a wink of sleep. She insisted that she wanted to carry on with her daily responsibilities, but after a long struggle getting out of bed and freshened up, I was able to convince her to consider her health first and take the day off.

She has been nursing a migraine that just won’t seem to quit. These intermittent migraines, the ones that have been plaguing her since she awoke from years of sleep, tend to subside within minutes. However, as we’ve grown so much closer to unraveling the mysteries surrounding the late Count’s death, they have been growing stronger and lasting longer. Last night into this morning has been the worst we’ve seen yet. And we’ve tried every tea, every medicine, and every therapy in the palace, but to no avail.

Thankfully, Portia is already making her rounds ensuring all of Nadia’s appointments are rescheduled or canceled. She made sure to check in several times throughout the night, fetching water and other assorted things as needed while I remained in Nadia’s quarters to keep her company and assist her however she needed. Nadia didn’t ask me for anything, though; she said that just having me around was enough.

We are sitting side by side now on the chaise lounge before our half-eaten breakfasts and tea when she takes my hand into her own. She takes a deep breath and speaks.

“Are you not tired? You haven’t slept at all.” Her confident tone shines through the darkness as usual, but I can hear an undercurrent of something uncertain or feeble trying to break free. She pulls out one hundred percent of her strength one hundred percent of the time; it’s a wonder how she does it. It’s a wonder how she can bear so much and not waver. But her voice did waver.

“What about you?”

Nadia seems shocked. “What about me?”

“Well, you haven’t slept either.” I sweep a stray lock of hair behind her ear, letting my hand linger. She closes her eyes and tilts into my touch. I continue, “Of course I’m tired… But I need to make sure you’re okay and taken care of.”

“You don’t need to take care of me.” She is looking away now, a hint of shame held within her red eyes. “I wouldn’t like to make a fuss and have you spend your time and energy in this way. If you’d like to get some rest, please do not worry about me.”

“But I want to, Nadia. Right now, this is how I want to spend my time and energy. You’ve offered me a break several times since the migraine started last night, but I will continue to stay by your side until we figure this out.” My fingers caress the back of her neck under a purple waterfall of luscious, long hair. “I care about you, Nadia. So much. Do you not believe that? That I would willingly—no, gladly not rest until I know you’re safe and healthy?”

Nadia looks up to meet my eyes, slowly so as not to further aggravate the pain and dizziness. “I… I suppose it’s not something I am used to. Accepting such a personal level of support from someone, that is.” She sighs with relief. “I do believe you. And thank you for being so patient with me in this time of distress.”

“Good, I’m glad you believe me. You deserve to have someone looking out for you. You are allowed to ask for help or accept it when it is offered.”

Softness and gratitude overcome her expression, but they are quickly replaced by doubt. Finally, the worries she has been holding in spill out. “I’ve tried all my usual remedies,” she begins with defeated frustration. “I’ve spent countless hours awake, enduring this cursed malady that I have no control over. I managed on my own all the other times, but I never could have expected it to get this consuming. I feel as though nothing is going to lift this pain.”

I gaze into her worried eyes as I hang onto to every word. When she is done speaking, I wrap my arms around her, guiding her to nest into my embrace. She leans into me, and I try not to put too much pressure on her head with my chin. I can only hold her and rub her back as I, too, am uncertain about how to help. For what feels like several minutes, I scan the room. I’m searching for anything that we might have missed, anything to give me an idea of how to help when, suddenly, something outside the window catches my eye. There, out in the garden, is a thriving rosa chinensis hedge. My heart skips as I recall all the flowers and herbs Asra and I have collected for our shop, each one passing through my mind’s eye like a roulette until, finally, I see the one that might save the day.

“Nadia. I… think I know of something that can help. But I’ll have to go into town to get it.”

Her head is no longer tucked into my neck as she now holds my face in her hands. Deep-red eyes once again meet mine, and she forces a smile. “I trust you.”

“You stay here, okay?”

I take her hand into mine and kiss the back of it before getting up to leave. As I walk away, she is slow to let go. I look back at her somber eyes and put on a brave face for her, smile and all.

“Don’t worry, Nadia. I’ll be back before you know it.”

~~~~~~~

Asra is startled by the shop door flinging open as I briskly cross the entryway with a quick, out of breath “Hi, Asra.” I rummage through the various shelves, cabinets, and boxes of magical supplies.

“Hey! Is there something wrong—are you in any trouble?”

“I just… need to find…” I can’t seem to think straight as I leaf through pages of pressed-herb books and checking rows of specimen bottles before finally letting my brain slow its roll to examine the situation clearly. “Sorry, Asra,” I take a deep breath and sigh. “I’m in a hurry to bring Nadia some bonica leaf tea. She’s been suffering through a seemingly endless migraine, and I thought we kept the dried petals over… here?”

Asra laughs, “You’ve been away working in the palace for a while; I guess you haven’t been here since I did a bit of reorganizing. Here,” he reaches to pluck a few petals hanging overhead. An assortment of flowers and herbs are strung between the ceiling beams, drying and curing in preparation for rituals that enhance their inherent magical properties.

He places three leaves of the bonica rose into a pouch. “Take these. But they haven’t been treated yet, so they won’t clear the migraine on their own.” He snaps off some bits of yucca root he has laid out in strips by the window and places them into the pouch as well.

“Are you sure you want me to use this? Yucca is one of our rarest items.” Asra and I use the yucca root as an accelerant—or rather a way to bypass the ritual aspect involved in elevating an ingredient’s magic. It is compatible with most magical plants, and it is not the easiest to come by. I guess it makes sense for something so powerful to be so sparse.

“Of course I’m sure! I trust that it won’t go to waste in your hands.” He smiles with soft sincerity. “And Nadia needs this. She needs you.”

Relief washes over me. “Thank you so much, Asra. You’re a lifesaver. I’ve got to hurry back, but maybe we can all catch up sometime soon?”

“I’d love that!” Asra smiled wide.

~~~~~~~

Slowly, I open the door to Nadia’s room, sliding in and shutting the door behind me with barely a sound. I have with me a steaming kettle from the kitchen, thanks to Portia who spotted me in the hall, and the bonica leaf and yucca root from Asra in my satchel. Sitting on the chaise just as before, now with her head in her hands, it looks like Nadia hardly moved from when I left her. She lifts her head to glance in my direction, but quickly sniffs and wipes under her eyes with a small cloth. Had she been crying?

“…Nadia?” I rush to her, setting the kettle on the tea table and kneeling before her.

“This is unbearable.” Of course she is talking about the pain, but it seems as though she’s also dreading showing me this side of her. Yet here she is. Nadia, a pillar of strength and power, vulnerable in the honesty of pain, opening up to my care, admitting that her condition is more than she can handle. Maybe more than anyone could handle. But I have confidence that we can overcome this.

“Nadia, look… it’s okay.” I wipe away a fresh tear from her cheek with my thumb and kiss the skin. “It’s going to be okay. I’m here. I brought something that should put an end to this.”

I lay the ingredients on a saucer that was on the tea table. I begin arranging the yucca root into a core and, with a thread I pulled from the pouch Asra gave me earlier, I tie the bonica leaves around that core. This is to ensure that the leaves fully envelop the bits of root and absorb all of its power when steeped in hot water. I place the completed ball in the center of an empty teacup and pour just enough steaming water from the kettle to submerge it. After a few seconds, the steam acquires a light pink hue, and the sweet scent of roses dances through the air.

“Come, let’s get you comfortable while the tea is finishing up.” I stand in front of her and extend my hands for her to grab onto. I feel a surprising amount of force as she pulls herself up, and I have to adjust myself to support her more than I expected. She does not look to be very steady, so I walk her to the bed and help her sit there. I can tell that the tea is ready now, so I bring her the cup and saucer.

Before she takes a sip, she hesitates. “Would you come into bed with me?” She looks almost afraid to ask this of me; perhaps pushing past her feelings of self-reliance to request more attention from me is still not easy for her to do, but I am all in.

I don’t even blush at the thought of joining the countess in her bed. Instead, I pull some curtains closed to block out the sun high in the sky and crawl in to sit with my back against the headboard. I offer to let her cozy up to me, and she accepts.

Nadia is here in my arms, leaning into my chest and taking one little sip of tea at a time. I loosen and remove whatever jewelry and other adornments from her hair that I can find, brushing close to her scalp with my fingertips to relieve any tension. I know the effects of the tea are not instant, so I wait a few minutes before checking in.

“How are you feeling?”

Nadia, with about half of the cup empty now, said flatly, “Sickened from exhaustion.” She took another sip and mustered up a more positive tone. “But the dreaded migraine… it is now but a twinge. And I have you to thank for that.”

“It should disappear completely by the time you finish your tea. But you may not notice until you sleep off the exhaustion. Even I’ve got a bit of a headache from being awake for so long.” I massage her shoulders and upper back. “If you don’t mind, maybe I could stay here with you for some much-needed rest.”

“Is that so?”  Nadia grins and gulps down the rest of her tea. “Tea’s done. Shall we get on with it?”

I laugh and take her dishes to place them on the bedside table. “I’m glad to hear your humor again. Come here.” I fluff some pillows and lie down on my back, patting my chest as an invitation for her to lie with—or on—me.

Turning to face me, she lies down and rolls into my arms. Her chest presses against my stomach and her head rests on my chest.

I ask, “Are you comfortable?” I feel her head nodding in approval, and I can see that her eyes are already closed. With one hand, I comb my fingers through her hair, and hold her hand with the other. I can feel myself dozing, comforted by the serenity that has risen in the room between our steady breaths and the silence of oncoming slumber.

She calls my name, barely above a whisper. “Thank you. For everything.”

And with that, we drift off to sleep.

[ang-26]

Home

Samuel and Carla see each other again eight years after their last encounter.

Carla’s POV.

Friday 26th, April 2028

Today is Nadia’s and Guzman’s bachelor and bachelorette party. And it’s the day that I’ll see him again after so long. I did everything in my power to avoid him but I can’t today, I have to be here for them because they deserve to celebrate their engagement with their friends.

“Hi C.” says Lu when she enters the bathroom we share in the hotel.

“Hi boo! How are you this morning?” I ask running the brush through my blond hair and turning my head to look at her.

“I’m good and you?” she asks kissing my head and hops in the shower.

“Fine, thank you.” I say and I turn toward the mirror and observe my reflection.

“It’s going to be okay; you don’t even have to see him.” Lu says in the shower.

I turn to see her looking at me with sympathy in her eyes. “I don’t know who you’re talking about.” I said looking at her with fire in my eyes to tell her not to go there.

“Stop lying to yourself. But you look wonderful in your dress!” Lu says when I go back in the room to choose my earrings.

“Thank you. Which one, the long or the small star one?” I ask her turning around to look at her.

“The long one will look better with your black tight dress.” She says when she comes close to me with a towel wrapped around her body. “You know, Guzman said that he didn’t want to come at first but they are best friends so…”.

“Alright! Thanks babe and I don’t want to talk about it. So, if you’re done, I’ll go take a drink at the bar while I wait for you.” I say and leave without waiting for her answer.

Arriving at the bar, I take a tequila and sit on a stool. “You are still drinking tequila as I can see”. Yeray says to me when he takes a seat next to me.

“You know me, I never change my habits.” I say and turn to hug him for a long time. “How are you?”

“I’m good and you? Still in California?” he asks and takes a whiskey on the rocks.

“Yeah but I’m thinking of moving to Spain. What about you?” I ask and see a girl walking toward us with a smile on her face.

“I’m great and in love with this beauty.” He answers when the girl takes a seat next to him and puts her hand on his thigh.

“Hi Carla, I’m Isabelle.” She says smiling.

Yeray kisses her on her cheek. “I finally found the one I was waiting for.”

“Nice to meet you.” I say and smile at her.

“I’m happy to finally put a face on a voice!” she says with a sincere smile on her face.

“I’m glad to see you in person too!” We talk for a few more minutes together and so nice to him happy with such a nice girl. He deserved it after everything he did for me.

“I’m sorry but I have to go the bathroom, will you excuse me?” I ask and leave without waiting for an answer.

I’m almost at the bathroom when I run into a body. He grabs by the waist and I go still. “Funny meeting you here.” I feel more than hear his voice in my ear.

“Samuel, hello.” I say looking in his eyes and try to move away from him. “Sorry, but I have to go.” I smell his after-shave, it’s woody more male than before but it suits him well and I’m already starting to lose control over my emotions. He’s dressed in a black suit with his sleeve rolled up, it’s like he belongs in this atmosphere.

“Of course.” He says to me but before I can move, he says in my ear, “You look beautiful tonight.”

He leaves but not before grazing my wrist with one of his thumbs. I enter the bathroom and lock the door behind me.

“You can’t let him affect you like this anymore. You have to pretend he’s only one of your old friends and smile at him.” I say to myself when I wash my hands.

“Nadia and Guzmán, we are here to celebrate you two. I know it’s the time for a speech but I just want to say a few word. We all know that it’s been a hell of a ride to be here tonight. It’s such a pleasure to see you together and so in love. Obviously, you had to do things differently and organize only one party instead of two! But we love you for that! Let’s this party begin and enjoy the rest of your night!” says Lu smiling brightly at the happy couple. I look at Nadia and Guzmán holding hands and smiling at one another before going to speak with their guests with a smile on my face.

I’m enjoying a glass of tequila at my table when Rebecca comes and sits next to me.

“Hi bitch, how are you?” she says and takes me in her arms.

“Hola Chica! I’m great and you?”

“You know me, still dealing!” she says laughing. “I found out that your father died last year. I tried to come to the funeral to support you despite him being a dick but I couldn’t come and I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay, nobody was here and that was better for everyone, you know. It’s horrible, I know but I was relieved. I could finally live my life how I wanted to even if I could do that in California, I was free of any expectation from anyone. The vineyard was still mine and safe in my mother’s hand.” I say smiling and she tightens her hands around mine.

“I understand completely. So, are you happy? Did you talk to him?” She asks and winks at me.

“I am and I will normally come back to Spain soon. Can you be more obvious?” I ask rolling my eyes. “What are you up to anyway?”

“I’m still trying to understand how I got here. But here I am, CEO of my own clothes company that is doing well in Spain and I hopefully will begin to sell them internationally.”

“Waouh! I’m so happy for you. You deserve it after everything you went through with your mother.” I exclaim and hug her again.

“Thank you! I also found love and we’re expecting a little baby for November.” She says shyly which is odd for her. She puts her hand on her small bump with happy tears in her eyes.

“Congratulations!” I whisper in her ear. “When can I see the lucky guy?”

“He’s not here unfortunately because he had some work to finish in Madrid. But he’s supposed to come tomorrow for the brunch.” She answers caressing her belly.

“He will only come for the brunch?” I ask.

“No, we’re staying the rest of the week in Paris before going back home.” She answers and speaks with their projects for the week.

I finish my drink and ask the bartender for another. Nadia comes, gives us both a hug and sit next to us.

“How are you ladies?” She asks with stars in her eyes.

“I’m so happy to be here with you guys. You look good and Guzman’s as handsome as ever.” I answer sweetly.

“You look even better than the last time we saw each other with your tan and your dress.” Nadia says and turn toward Rebecca. “What about you?”

“I’m drinking water instead of a vodka, so I’m as good as can be expected in my situation.” She says scowling and tries to take my drink.

“Stop that! You know, you can’t drink with the baby!” Nadia says shaking her head and nods toward her bump.

“Drink for me then!” answers Rebecca and get up, “I’m going to the bathroom again for the hundredth time today.”

Nadia turns toward me and asks “Are you enjoying yourself?”.

“Of course, I am, I wouldn’t have miss this for the world and you know Lu would have never let me!” I smile at her.

“I know that, but really, how are you? I – “She begins but I shake my head.

“No Nadia, please.” I try to speak but she interrupts me.

“Carla, I know you don’t want to talk to him but each time he comes and see us, he asks about you.” She says and places a reassuring hand on my shoulder.

“I will talk to him, Nadia. I know we have things to talk about but I just want tonight to be drama free. He will find me anyway. He always does.” I say with my eyes glue to my glass. “Hi you!” I say to Omar who put his hands around my waist.

“How’s my favorite brother?” I ask laughing and kiss him of the cheek. “Where’s your dear husband?”

“Sorry, Carla but it’s my brother!” laughs Nadia.

“He’s around here. But I’m here to take you on the dance floor.” Omar says to me and offers me his hand laughing.

After hours of dancing, drinking and laughing, I’m out on the balcony for the first-time alone tonight. It’s a nice summer night field with stars.

“I can feel you behind me, Samuel.” I say closing my eyes and take a deep breath.

“I didn’t want to bother you.” He says close to me. “Nadia told me not to speak to you tonight but tomorrow at the brunch. I tried to give you some space but as you can see I can’t.”

“I knew you would find me.” I say and lead backward instinctively close to him, my head resting on his chest. He’s way too close to me but it’s been years since I felt him like this and I just want to enjoy this moment.

“I’m happy to see you.” He whispers in my ears and kisses my temple. “How have you been?”

“Fine. It’s been awesome to see everyone again after so long.” I answer and close my eyes in bliss.

“Even me?” He asks tentatively and wraps his arms around my waist.

“Yes, you know that Samuel. So much happened between us and I didn’t want to assume-” I begin to say but I feel him taking a breath and stop talking.

“Carla, please. Let me talk first.” He says and I nod against him. He takes a deep breath and begins “I know when you left for California, we couldn’t be together because even if you took control of your life, I didn’t want to force you into anything. You father made you do awful things to keep the winery but you still saved yourself. I received your letter… and I wanted to respond but I knew your father could find it.” He pauses a second. “You’re hurt, I understand completely but could you forgive me? I came for his funeral- “

“What? I didn’t saw you.” I interrupt him and turn to look at him with wide eyes.

“Lu called Guzman who obviously called me. He told me you didn’t want anyone to come and waste time for him. I clearly didn’t listen and came to support you. I saw you holding hands with a man and didn’t want to disturb you.”

“It was my cousin, Samuel.” I answer and touch his face. “You know, there is only one man I want.”

He leans his forehead against mine and closes his eyes hard, trying to shallow my words. “I know that it’s not going to be simple. We’re going to have challenges; we’re going to fight. We grow up apart for nearly a decade but I know in my heart that you’re the love of my life. I watched you from afar, you opened your wings and you became the woman I knew you would be. I’m so so proud of you.” He says and hugs me harder.

“Samuel, I I-“I shutters, completely lost. “I need to go.”

“Let me take you back to your room.” He says and we leave the party but not before saying goodbyes to all our friends.

“I need to speak with Lu for a minute.” I say and he nods going close to the elevator.

“Bitch, where are you going?” Lu asks me when I arrive close to her.

“Up in my room. I need to think.” I say quietly, she squeezes my hand and caresses my face.

Samuel and I take the elevator and we arrive on my floor. “I’m in room 231.” He takes my hand and we move forward.

“I’ll see you tomorrow at the brunch.” Samuel says and looks down at me. He puts his hands on my face. “Don’t think too much, baby.”

“Bye.” I say when I open the door to my room. He kisses my forehead and releases me before leaving in the corridor. I enter in the room and collapse against it, breathing heavenly.  

Saturday 27th, April 2028.

“Wake up sleepy head!” Lu almost screams in my ears. I groan and turn in my bed to avoid her but she pulls the blanket off me.

“No.” I grumble and put a pillow over my head.

“Yes, I’m hungry and you need to tell me what happened with him yesterday.” She laughs and jump on my bed.

“No and no and no.” I grunt but she takes my pillow and hits it with it. “Lu!” I whine but she doesn’t stop.

“Come on! You-” She starts but stop when her phone rings. She answers and I try to fall back to sleep. I almost succeed when she comes back and takes one of my pillows again.

“I need five more minutes.” I say and frown at her when she smirks at me. “Where is the guy you slept with?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about!” She laughs and jumps on my bed. “He left before I woke up.”

“For the noises I heard, he made you feel good.” I smile and winks at her.

“He did this thing with his tongue, that was incredible!” She says dreamily and I smack her hand. “Don’t be jealous, you could have Samuel if you wanted to.”

My face fall and I remember his hands on my body. I try to move but Lu grabs my hand. “You’ll have to talk to someone about him.”

I turn around to face her and take a deep breath “Yesterday night was like a dream. We could talk with nothing holding me back. He said that he was here for my father’s funeral. I accuse you because I told you not to call anyone but you never listen to me. I feel like it’s finally time for us to be together.”

“You know it’s time. I saw him look at you all night and you know he’s not the same boy. He grew up and you did too. You can finally let the pression on your shoulder go and move on. I can’t tell you what to do but know that you have my sincere love and I’ll always be on your side.” She says smiling and kisses my cheek. “Now, move your sorry ass and get dress!”

“Thank you, Lu.”

We leave the hotel, one hour later. We take a cab and go to a small restaurant close to Montmartre, with a gorgeous view. Everyone is already here; I take a seat next to Ander and Rebecca.

“Good morning guys! How are you this morning?” I smile and kiss them on the cheek.

“You look good babe!” Ander says and pours me a coffee.

“Thanks”

“Rebe! I absolutely love your dress.” I say and touch the fabric.

“It’s one from my new collection. I could send you one if you want?” She answers smiling. “I’m just so tired on putting on pants when I have to pee every five minutes because of this child like right now.” She puts her hands on the table and gets up.

“I didn’t see you yesterday.” I exclaim and take a sip of my coffee. “What do you want to eat?”

“I’ll take the French breakfast and you?” He says flirting with the waiter.

“On va prendre deux petits déjeuner avec du pain, du beurre et de la confiture, s’il vous plaît ?” I say to the waiter next to us, he nods. “Est-ce qu’on peut avoir du jus d’orange pressé aussi ?”

“Oui, bien sûr. Je vous en apporte.” He answers and leaves us to take the order of the others.

“Since when can you speak French?” he asks.

“I had a French boyfriend for two years and with the wine, you have to speak at least a little bit of French.”

“And why I never met him?” he asks and I shrug.

“Because I didn’t want you to take him from me!” I say laughing. “Hi Guzman.” I say when he puts one of his arms on my shoulder.

“Guapa, how are you?” He kisses my head.

“Good and you?” I answer and turn to hug him.

“Fine, I’m glad you could make it.”

“You knew I would come, you’re like the brother I never had.” I answer and hug him harder.

“Love you, sis.” He says and takes a sip of my coffee.

“It’s mine!” I take it from him and push him. “Take your own and go annoy somebody else.” I say smirking when I hear Nadia calling him.

“Bye, asshole.” I say smiling.

When we finish to eat. I gather my courage and go see Samuel. “Hi, can I talk to you?”

“Yes, of course.” He answers and stands up. “Let’s take a walk.” I nod and follow him outside.

We walk for a few minutes silently in the street. “I thought about our discussion all night or at least your monologue.” I smile and take one of his hand in mine. “I knew that I could have come and find you when my dad died, but I needed time to heal before I could let anyone enter my life. I also didn’t want to see you in a happy relationship and I buried my head in the sand. For the first time in my life, I was selfish and I knew that if we were made for each other we would find our way back to each other. You are my past, my present and my future.” I declare in a breath.

He stops walking and brings me to a bench in front of Montmartre. “Carla, I’ve been waiting for you. I know we’ll need to a have a discussion” He takes my hand softly in his and continues “I’m in love with you. Can I kiss you?” He asks while his palms slide up my neck. I nod and his lips descend on mine slowly. My lips open and all I can feel is him. Finally, after waiting for so long, I’m home in the arms of the man I loved and love more than anything.