#next week when I'm in office with them I guess I'm going to ask around and see if there's any more verbal planning been done??

[russellsppttemplates]

Bridging the Gap (Lando Norris)

A look into the Norris family summer vacation

Note: english is not my first language. It's been some time since I posted one of these, hopefully I still know how to do it 🥲 A lot of changes have been going on at my job and I've been trying to adjust to all of it without loosing my sanity! For those who are here and have stayed, thank you for being so patient and for staying - I hope this is good enough ✨️

Thank you so much to everyone who likes and reblogs, your feedback is appreciated 🤍 and I'm not taking requests right now, so if you have any ideas or concepts you want to share, feel free to send them in but know that I don't know when I'll be able to get to them!

my masterlist

Cw: reader is 4 years older than Lando, media scrutiny

Tag list: @myloverjk-blog @hiireadstuff @c-losur3 @sltwins

The low hum of the television filled the cozy apartment as you and Lando sat on the sofa, nestled comfortably under a soft blanket as his hands absentmindedly traced patterns on your thigh. Lately, it was one of your favorite pastimes - catching up on a show after a long week and simply enjoying each other's presence without having the world around you.

Life with Lando was unexpectedly delightful. His infectious laughter and zest for life were contagious, and even the most mundane days seemed brighter with him around, no matter how many clients you had that day or how much reading you had to do before their next sessions. At the beginning, you couldn't wrap your head around how the way your routines still laced together despite the seemingly different responsibilities, but you cherished the balance you shared.

"Do you have a busy day tomorrow?", your boyfriend asked.

"I have 8 clients, as two of them already cancelled because they're sick, but I managed to adjust the schedule and hopefully I have some time to go to the bank and see about my mortgage payments", you said.

"And in that rearranged schedule, is there a possibility of you spending the night here so we can wake up together before you go be a boss lady?", he wondered as he nuzzled his face in the crook of your neck, softly kissing the skin there.

"I have to be in the office at before 10 am, Lan, I can't have a lie in", you reasoned.

"I have to be up at 7 am to go on a run with Jon, so neither can I", he smirked, knowing he had all the reasons to convince you to stay, "we can have some breakfast together before you leave me".

"I guess I have time to pop home, change and get to work on time", you reasoned, agreeing with his plans.

"I'm glad you think that because my next step was going to kidnap you for the night - I'm talking locking the doors and throwing away the keys", Lando spoke.

Your laughs rubbled as Lando squeezed you tighter against him, basking in the warm feeling on his chest of having you for the rest of the night.

.

A few weeks later, Lando told you Max and Pietra would be in Monaco for a week since they hadn't spent some time together in a while.

"Do you know how your week is going to be? In terms of your schedule I mean", Lando mused, holding your waist as you stirred the food in the pot.

"I had some people move around from their usual schedule, so the weekdays end late but I don't have many appointments on Friday and I have Saturday off", you spoke.

"That's good, means we can spend a nice long weekend together", Lando smiled, kissing your shoulder before resting his chin there, "I'm not sure of all the plans yet but it’ll be fun! And they’re eager to meet you", he grinned, optimism lighting up his face.

"I'm excited to meet them too", you spoke, despite the one looming shadow. The thought of meeting Lando’s close-knit circle always brought a tinge of anxiety with it. His friends were used to seeing him as the carefree poster child of single life - never missing a party or the chance to get a little drunk. Hell, the idea that Lando would rather stay in on a Friday night, watching his girlfriend cook them dinner after spending the afternoon waiting for her to finish her online sessions would baffle Max and all of his friends.

And though Lando never seemed to mind, the idea of them questioning your relationship because of your age gnawed at your insecurity. Even when you were younger, the party scene wasn't your thing and as the years passed, it certainly didn't become it. You were fine with Lando enjoying himself whenever he wanted to and never once objected to that, but feared that his friends would question it.

"There's something on your mind, I can tell that", Lando spoke softly, "would you like to share it with me?".

"It's just...", you tried, knowing he would be able to tell you were lying and knowing that sharing this with him could ease your fears.

"Doesn't have to sound pretty or polished, I just want to know what is on your head", he encouraged softly.

"Maybe they won't want to spend time with me? They're coming here to see you and spend time with you, and there's always the possibility that they might now want to spend time with me", you let it out.

"Why do you think that?", he continued softly.

"Because I'm not hard-core, adrenaline seeking fun!", you added.

"Lovie, the plans we have are just enough fun for everyone, I didn't to do anything too hard-core and they don't either, so we'll be good and have plenty of fun together, yeah?", Lando assured, turning you around and kissing your forehead.

"You are starting to have a way with words", you mumbled, enjoying the feeling of his lips on your skin in such a protective manner, like no harm in the world could get to you if he was near.

"I catch on a thing or two you say", your boyfriend mumbled, kissing your lips slowly.

"I have to take my lunch to the office tomorrow, I don't have time to come home", you mumbled more to yourself than anything, taking a tupperware box from the cupboards so you wouldn't end up without your packed lunch.

"Pack two of them and I'll meet you in the office", Lando said like it was nothing.

"Sorry, what?", you asked again, afraid you had misheard him.

"You can pack two of them to go and I'll meet you for lunch tomorrow so you don't eat lunch all alone", Lando suggested.

"You don't have to", you reasoned.

"I know I don't, but I want to", Lando smiled, "the next couple of days are going to be busy for me and I need to fill up on time with you so my heart won't miss you as much".

He was ever the charmer and you still blushed at his words, not used to this no matter how many times he did it.

"Fine, but you can't mess up the crayons this time! You left one of them on the floor and I saw my life flash before my eyes when I stepped on it and nearly fell! No funny business in my office!", you joked.

"Does that mean we can't play Jenga and talk about my feelings? How dare you do that to me, woman?", Lando dramatised.

.

The first night of the week Max and Pietra would be spending in Monaco arrived quickly, and while the full day of sessions certainly kept your mind away from all of it, you found yourself at the door of your boyfriend's apartment waiting for him to get it.

"Hello, beautiful", Lando greeted as soon as he saw you, kissing your lips before letting you in, "let me take these", he said as he grabbed your bag and your coat.

"Thank you, I'm sorry I'm a bit late but the last session ran a bit longer than I expexted", you apologised, smoothing over your jeans and checking how you looked in the mirror - after the day you had, you couldn't expect much but you were pleasantly surprised that your hair was still bouncy and forgoing makeup was probably a good idea because you would have smudged it by now.

"You look beautiful as always, Y/N", Lando grabbed your attention, "and don't worry, take out is late too so you don't need to feel bad", he assured, guiding you with him to the living room where the noise was coming from.

"Guys, this is Y/N", Lando announced as they both welcomed you warmly, quickly asking you questions and letting you join in, preparing a drink for you.

"I'm usually heavy handed, but this one is proper, Y/N", he offered you before you took a sip, "I can fix a different one though!".

"It's good, it's good - hits the spot very nicely", you smiled, taking another sip before engaging in conversation.

When the food arrived, Lando asked you to join him in the kitchen to help him plate everything up and bring it to the dining table, opting to use the door closest to it so it would be easier.

As you crossed rhe hallway, you overheard Max and Pietra talking.

“Do you think it works?”, Pietra asked, “I mean, they seem happy, but Lando’s… well, Lando".

Max shrugged, “He’s crazy about her. Age doesn’t matter, does it? But yeah, never thought he’d settle, at least not like this".

You felt a small knot form in your stomach, but before you could dwell on it, Lando appeared at your side, his familiar warmth instantly reassuring as he placed his hand on the small of your back, “You alright?” he asked, noticing the brief flicker of uncertainty in your eyes.

“Yeah", you smiled, deciding in that moment that the security you had together was worth navigating any doubts from others.

As the evening continued, you noticed Max and P exchanging skeptical glances across the table - they're were known for their protective nature over Lando, Max is his bestfriend, so they are particularly wary of anyone close to their beloved friend.

Over the clinking of silverware and hum of conversations, Max finally spoke up, his tone casual but inquisitive, "so, how’s it really going, being with a guy who practically lives on a racetrack?”.

You felt Lando's reassuring nudge beneath the table, prompting you to respond with honesty, "It's definitely something else. Racing is such a demanding world, but we find balance by making time for each other away from it all. So far, it has worked out well".

P leaned back, observing the dynamic between the you, "there must be a lot of pressure, especially with so many eyes watching your every move".

Lando chimed in before you could respond, "Y/N handles it like a champ. Honestly, she’s the calm in my storm", he said, his eyes filled with admiration for you. There wasn't a day that you didn't handle it gracefully, whether it was a fan wanting to take a photo or a reporter wanting to know more than you allowed.

Max and P exchanged another look, this time softer and less guarded - little by little, they began to see what Lando meant by his earlier assurance that you kept him grounded.

As dinner progressed, the conversation turned to shared stories, with Lando guiding the discussion to include moments from your relationship - your mutual love for travel, how you introduced him to the joy of quiet moments, and even shared a humorous tale of your early dates, laughter erupting when he recounted an incident involving mistaking your office with the one next to yours, Lando accidentally entering the lawyer's waiting room with a massive bouquet of flowers and passes to golf.

Max's initial skepticism gradually melted away as he watched you interact. Lando's attentiveness was unmistakable - how he would lean in to catch your words over the din of conversations, or how his eyes crinkled in genuine amusement at your stories. He noticed how effortless and natural your connection seemed, a seamless blend of companionship and partnership.

By the time dessert came around, Pietra seemed convinced, "Alright, alright. I can see what everyone’s been talking about. You both really seem to understand each other in a way that's rare".

"You say that like we don't!", Max complained.

"Shut it, Max, you know what I mean", she mumbled.

Feeling the warmth of acceptance flood the room, Lando laid his hand over yours on the table, grinning with relief and contentment, "Told you she was amazing,” he said, playfully raising his eyebrows.

Max chuckled, raising his glass, "Okay, I admit defeat, I'm not sure we are like this!".

It was in that moment that you realized, the whispers of doubt that had once lingered were no match for the clarity of Lando’s affection. Together, you were creating a narrative all your own, one that defied stereotypes and embraced your unique bond.

.

As the days passed after the gathering, the glow of being surrounded by Lando’s friends began to fade, replaced by the nagging unease that had settled in your mind. You found yourself replaying the conversations from that night, the laughter, the glances, and especially Max's comment, which you still couldn’t quite shake off despite the way the night ended.

One evening, after a long day at work, filled with sessions and schedule arrangements thanks to the flu season, you sat on the sofa, scrolling through social media.

Your heart sank as you stumbled upon a headline featuring Lando. The article speculated about his relationships and how he was often deemed the ultimate bachelor, writing that they believed he wasn't about to change his ways. The more you read, the harder it became to ignore your worries.

Later that night, Lando arrived from his photoshoot, his laughter echoing as he stepped through you door. He instantly brightened the room with his presence, but you struggled to muster so much as a smile.

“Hey! Long day?”, he asked, tilting his head slightly, concern etched across his features as he took a good look at you.

“Just tired", you replied with a half truth. As you settled down, you felt the weight of the unspoken words pressing on your chest, knowing that sooner or later they would find their way out.

“Is everything okay?”, Lando probed, sensing the shift in your mood. Even when you had a bad day, the reception he got wasn't like this.

You hesitated, your thoughts swirling, Do you ever think about what people say… about us?”.

Lando paused, confusion washing over his face, "What do you mean?”.

“I don’t know,” you sighed, looking down, "Like, the way the media talks about you. Or how your friends might see us. What if they don’t accept me? They might think I’m not right for you… for your image".

Lando’s expression shifted from confusion to concern, “Why would you think that?”.

“Because it’s true!”, you almost spat, frustration bubbling to the surface, "You’re this young, popular and successful Formula One driver, and I’m just… well, me. What if they think I’m just an older woman trying to latch onto your fame? What if they don’t see how happy we are?”.

“Stop it", he said gently, but firmly, “you’re not ‘just’ anything, or someone. You’re incredible, and I’m with you because I want to be. Age is just a number and it doesn’t define how meaningful our relationship is, not to me and it shouldn't be to anyone".

But your doubts resurfaced, relentless as you continued with your voice rising with each word, “But what if your family doesn’t feel the same? What if they think I’m not good enough for their sweet boy? I just… I can't help but overthink it. I love you, and I’m terrified of losing you".

Lando stepped closer, taking your hands in his and grounding you with his touch, something you explained to him early on that worked wonders for you, “I can’t control what others think, but my family will see how happy you make me. They care about my happiness, not just some number or date".

“But what if they don’t?”, you whispered, your voice trembling. Over the years, you could remember the times where you told patients exactly that, that their mind was looking for survival so that's where it took them.

“They will!", Lando stated, his grip tightening slightly, “Look, it’s not going to be like this forever. People talk, and yes, media can be ruthless, but what matters is how we feel about each other. And I feel lucky to have you in my life. Please trust that, my love".

You looked for reassurance in his eyes as slowly his words began to soothe the turmoil, but the fear was still there, lurking just beneath the surface.

“I just don’t want to complicate things for you", you said softly.

Lando brushed his fingers against your cheek, a gentle smile breaking through your anxiety, "you’re not complicating things. You’re adding to my life in a way I never knew I needed. Can we just take this one step at a time together?”.

Lando pulled you into a warm embrace, and for a moment, the weight on your heart lightened. Taking a deep breath, you reminded yourself to stay in the moment and be there.

“I’ll try", you finally spoke against his shoulder, feeling comfort in his unwavering support.

“I promise I'm not going anywhere", he whispered back, wrapping you tighter in his arms, "we’re in this together".

"Thank you", you mumbled, pecking his lips softly.

"You don't ever need to thank me, not for stuff like this or anything else, we're in this together, lovie", Lando kissed your forehead, "besides, if you ever dump me, I'll have to find a good psychologist to help me through it and you're the best one, so that's another valid point for us to stay together", he chuckled, wanting to get a giggle out of you.

Smiling when he succeeded, Lando squeezed you tighter against him, "never doubt that we were meant to be, Y/N, never".

[lost-romantique]

"We aren't a family, sir!"

"We aren't a family, sir! You are the boss! We are the employees!"

"Who's that?"

"Oh, her? That's just Loona. What a nightmare. Serious attitude problems... She'll be out of our hair next month when she ages out. Good riddance, if you ask me. She'll never amount to anything much."

"Fuck, Blitzo! Why can't you stay out of my face for, like, five minutes?!"

"Because, I adopted you! And that should mean something!"

"Oh, what does it matter?! You're not my real dad! I was almost eighteen!"

"It still counts!"

"Well, it shouldn't! I didn't need you then, asshole! I don't, now!"

"I love you, dad."

"Okay, not much of a talker, are you? I'm Blitzo, the "o" is silent. I'm sure we're going to get along just fine. So, what's your deal? What'd you do? Who'd you diddle? You look like someone good with a gun. You look like someone who could shoot up an office-"

"I'm just worried about Millie. She'll be on her way by now, I'm sure!"

"Ugh, she'll be fine, Moxxie. It would take a roided-up hippo to take down that woman when she's upset."

"We've never dealt with the human government before! She's in danger!"

"Do you ever honestly shut up about Millie?! It's always "Oh, how's Millie?" "I can't tonight. I'm hangin' with Millie!" "I'm so worried about Millie!" And she's ALWAYS... FIVE FUCKIN' FEET away from you! It's pathetic!"

"Do you remember what you said to me after my first day with the company?"

"Not really..."

"I remember. You told me I did a good job and that you were proud to work with me. I feel like you wanted to say something more judgmental, but... you said that because I needed it... And it helped."

"Look, I'm hard on you, because I know what you're capable of, Mox. You care too much about what everyone thinks except for... me, because, y'know, my opinion is correct, but just... keep doing a good job. 'Kay? You shoot 'n kill good, you escape things easy... you can be strategic and cold-blooded when you need to, aaaand don't expect any more compliments; I'm maxed out."

"Thank you, sir."

"Who the fuck are you?"

"Someone with an eye for potential. Now you wanna keep working for peanuts, or do you want to shake things up?"

"I'm done. I don't wanna play ghost hunter with you, and I-"

"Uh, it's ghost-fuckers"

"I wasn't done! You know, I always love to have fun with you, and I ain't said boo to you moping around like a sad sack for weeks. But we have bills to pay... So look, you can go be pathetic and play sex ghosts, if that's what you need to do, but I gotta get this job done!"

"Fine! Who needs you anyway!? Bethany Ghost-Fucker works ALONE!"

"We're just Wrathians, Blitz. Muscle. It's all we're good for, all I'm good for. It's why you hired me. Any demon good at making a buck is welcome in Lust or Greed, but here? Demons like us ain't cut out for this."

"Uh... fuck you!"

"What?"

"Millie, I have spent too much of my time, energy, and holes into setting this up for us to entertain your bullshit. I brought you into this company for a reason, okay? You're tougher, smarter, and frankly more capable than anyone I've ever met in any ring..."

"Look. What I said earlier, you've just always been so unbothered by everything. Almost bulletproof and, I guess I never realized how much I depended on that. I didn't know how to react to you being reduced to…Bethany. But I should've respected you like you always do for me. I'm sorry."

"NO! Not them, Your Highness! It was me, it was all me, okay? Y-you can't expect to teach anyone a lesson by killing all of us!"

"You dare try to tell me how to PUNISH!?"

"Look, all that Hell is gonna see is you executing imps who are just trying to do their job! I'm the rogue here, not them!"

"Blitz, what are you doing?"

"Your Highness, please. Blitz just--"

"Moxxie, stop."

"Blitz, I can't let you-"

"This big red bitch never planned on hearing us out... Just... just take care of Loona for me."

"I love you, guys."

"Sir-sir, you're here!"

"Dad!"

"Don't you ever do that to me again, you fucking idiot!"

Moxxie was right, they are most definitely not a family. /sarcasm

[emeraldserenade]

Running ~ Joaquín Torres

synopsis: you always ran when it became too much, and you always hated it. So why did you run from the sweetest man you knew after figuring out you were pregnant?

tw: fem!reader, pregnancy, reader get postpartum depression and stands on the side of a bridge, barely edited.

fic, ficlet, drabble, request

I'm back on an angst kick I guess, there's a happy ending though.

➽──────────────❥

You met Joaquín in the air force, you both needed a way to blow off some steam after some particularly rough days. It's how you found yourself tangled in the sheets of a bed with him often. It was never stated that you were exclusive, but it seemed to be an unspoken rule that you were.

You were laying with him, your head on his chest post sex just talking. You found comfort in each other and talking was easy.

"Have you ever thought about children?" You questioned Joaquín once.

"I have," he confirmed, it was a topic you two had skirted around for a while during these talks.

"If I had a child I'd want to name them some pretty, something not too out of the ordinary but something people would tell them that they had a pretty name," you mused.

"I'd want to give my daughter my mother's name for her middle name, Esperanza. Same for my son, I'd want him to have my father's name for his middle name," Joaquín confided and you nodded gently.

✧°˖ . ݁˖︵‿❀‿︵˖ . ݁˖°✧

You missed your period the next month and you panicked. You went to the drug store and bought every brand of pregnancy test they had. You rushed to get back to the small apartment you were staying in, you took all seven tests and waited.

With baited breath, you flipped them all upright. Seven tests, seven positives, and one panic attack. You sat on the floor afterwards and formulated a plan, you called that night to make an appointment the next day. You were going in for bloodwork and a checkup, you would have gone to the infirmary on base for it but you knew the chances of running into Joaquín was too high.

You knew it was his, you've only slept with him for months. You knew if you told him he would love nothing more than to step up and be a father, but you also knew he would stop his dream of going to help Captain America. He would give it all up to be there with you and your child, so you didn't tell him.

✧°˖ . ݁˖︵‿❀‿︵˖ . ݁˖°✧

The doctor confirmed it, you were seven weeks pregnant. You took the drive home as carefully as possible as you thought about your next plan. You were states away from your parents in Virginia and you were still putting yourself in high stress situations all the time.

So you ran, you went to your CO and told him you were quitting. He never cared for you, being a misogynist, so he quickly filled out your papers and sent you on your way. You packed the little things you had to take with you in a trailer U-Haul, and started your drive to your parents.

You stopped on the way out of town at Joaquín's place, you had written a note for him. You slipped it under his apartment door and headed on your way, you looked back once, debating on if you should really run again.

✧°˖ . ݁˖︵‿❀‿︵˖ . ݁˖°✧

Joaquín got home only minutes after you slipped the note under his door, the scent of your perfume still lingered in the hallway. He opened his apartment and found the note, he tenderly picked it up and went to his couch to read it.

Joaquín, I'm sorry to leave you like this with only a note to say goodbye. But there are things going on that I don't want to burden you with. You were the best thing that ever happened to me, but you never asked for this. Love, y/n

It broke Joaquín, he was sure you were the love of his life. He was going to offically ask you to be his girlfriend that night. He stared at the note, the one you pressed a kiss to, the one your sprayed with your perfume, the one that you left him.

✧°˖ . ݁˖︵‿❀‿︵˖ . ݁˖°✧

Joaquín called you for days, weeks, months, even years. You never had the heart to block him, you would listen to every voicemail and read every text.

And by your own doing, you went through everything alone. Sure, you had your parents but you wished for more. You wished you didn't run when things got hard and uncontrollable. You wanted to send Joaquín photos and updates, wanted him to hold your hand, wanted him to tell you everything was going to be alright. But you couldn't bring yourself to tell him, to stop him from chasing his dreams.

You had no one to hold your hand and press loving kisses to your forehead as you gave birth to your beautiful baby girl, your beautiful Lillian Esperanza Torres. You gave her Joaquín's last name, you loved her dearly but you wanted her to have something of Joaquín's to always have forever.

✧°˖ . ݁˖︵‿❀‿︵˖ . ݁˖°✧

You went through postpartum depression, you dropped your baby off with your parents one day and just went for a walk. Your thoughts ran rampant as you walked and made it to a bridge. You just stood there, staring off the side.

You're not good enough Lillian would be better without you You run every time something gets hard You're pathetic

"Hey," a voice startled you, you looked over your shoulder and saw Captain America standing there. He was sweaty and you could tell he was going for a run.

"Hi?" You were confused on what was happening.

"I'm Sam," he offered his hand and you took it.

"Y/n," you offered your name before looking back over the side of the bridge.

"Do you live around here?"

"Kinda, I live closer to downtown. My parents are only a 20 minute walk away," you shrugged.

"Here, I'll walk with you to their house then," Sam gently took your hand and led you away from the bridge. You walked in silence for a moment before speaking.

"Thank you," you muttered. "I really wasn't planning on killing myself but thank you," you explained.

"Hey, it's no problem. If you wanna talk about what's wrong you can," he offered.

"Postpartum depression," you started talking and it's like the dam broke. "I was hooking up with someone for months, he was so sweet. But every time things get hard, every time I lose control over a situation, I run. My baby girl is only ten months old but what if I'm doing her a disservice of being her mother? She deserves the world and if I run how can I give that to her? If I could give her the world, why did I run from her father?" You sobbed and paused walking, Sam standing in front of you.

"Do you love your girl?" Sam questioned you and you whipped your head up to look at him.

"Of course I do," you replied instantly.

"Then that's enough, no one is perfect. You're living for the first time, you are navigating a world that isn't made for single mothers. You are stronger than you realize, you can do this. I believe in you, and I know we just met, but there is something about you that tells me you will do everything in your power to give your little girl the best life imaginable," Sam told you and you nodded.

"I was air force," you started walking again. "So is her father," you added on. "Her name's Lillian," you said it as your parents' house came into view.

"Here's my number, if you ever feel low again, call," he handed you a card and you nodded.

"Thank you," you told him in a breath.

"Just hug Lillian for me," he nodded before running off.

✧°˖ . ݁˖︵‿❀‿︵˖ . ݁˖°✧

Lillian was 4 now and Joaquín still texted you everyday, you wanted to tell him about her but you also knew he finally made it to working with Sam.

Then you didn't have much of a choice, Sam and Joaquín showed up on your doorstep. You froze at the sight of Joaquín but Sam just started talking.

"Can we stay here for a few? There's a thing happening and don't worry but Lillian will be safe," Sam rushed out and you numbly nodded as you let them in. Lillian was sitting on the floor by the coffee table where you were playing tea party with her.

It wasn't hard to figure out she was Joaquín's, she looked almost exactly like him. Her only differences were her eyes, nose, and her attitude. You knew Joaquín figured it out by the way he looked at you, Sam picked up on it too.

"Holy sh-" you cut Sam off with a look, his swear dying in his throat. "Lillian is Joaquín's," Sam said it and you nodded eyes wide.

"Mama?" Lillian's little voice broke you out of your trance.

"Yes, bug?" You lowered yourself back on the pillow you had been sitting on.

"Can they play tea party with us?" Lillian gestured to the two and you nodded. Joaquín settled in next to you while Sam sat next to Lillian.

"Does she know who I am?" Joaquín spoke for the first time since he entered your house.

"Kinda, she knows everything but your face. I get it if you want nothing to do with her and I understand if you're mad that I left. I'm sorry but I," you were cut off by Joaquín grabbing your hand.

"Can I officially meet her?" Joaquín questioned and you nodded.

"Lillian," you called her attention and her wide eyes looked at you. "This is Joaquín, your dad," you gestured to the man next to you and Lillian gasped. "Joaquín, this is Lillian Esperanza Torres," Joaquín smiled at the name as Lillian shot up from her seat and launched herself over the table into his arms.

✧°˖ . ݁˖︵‿❀‿︵˖ . ݁˖°✧

It had been a year since Joaquín made his way back into your life and arms. The night he found you again was the night he confessed his love and the night you confessed you listened to every voicemail and read every text. You two had a long conversation, one where you explained everything and one where he promised to be there to help when things got hard.

You ended up officially together by the end of the week and Lillian couldn't be happier. You were now on the back porch watching your boyfriend and daughter run around, a hand over your stomach where your new child was growing. Joaquín didn't know yet, but you weren't running this time, and you were about to tell him with the little onesie you have tucked under you.

➽──────────────❥

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[littlelovelunette]

Sevika x reader where Sevika is like an adopted guardian for Jinx and reader is her favorite art teacher, jinx shenanigans causes them to meet outside of the school building and meet cute please and thank you - 🎨

I like this idea a lotttt, 🎨

Meet Me Behind The School

You always liked Sevika, a student's guardian. Jinx, a problematic kid in your art class, claimed you were her favourite teacher and you adored her for it. Sometimes, you'd even bring her sugary snacks.

You knew she wasn't that well-off. And she had no parents, however she did have Sevika. A woman who had taken her in like her very own. Pretty much adopted her without the official paperwork.

And oh, was Sevika good looking. With her little bob, dark lips, grey eyes and such a snatched jaw... Whatever clothes she'd wear, her muscles would be bulging.

Today was another hectic morning for you, from students who were too hard to teach to students who thought anything was art— your morning was just getting started when the intercom called for you to the Principal's office.

With a furrowed brow you started making your way to the office, you saw the bright neon spray paint tags on the school war and you mumbled, "Jinx, not you again..."

"I take it you're her homeroom teacher?" The principal, a grumpy old man in a blazer, asked you. Just to seeing the way his hooded eyes narrowed seeing you sent shivers down your spine.

"Yes, sir, I am," you answered, hands clasped at your front.

"She's a problem!"

"Sir, she's jus—"

"Call her guardian and have a word with them, do what you have to. And get her out of here," the principal said in a snappy tone, gesturing to Jinx who was rocking back and forth in a chair opposite him.

She got up, walkign to you, "Geez, someone's on their man-ustration," Jinx mumbled under her breath before she followed you into your office room.

"You can't keep vandalising school property, Jinx," you said, picking your phone off the table top, "I'm gonna have to call your guardian now."

Jinx simply rolled her eyes and made herself comfy on a chair across your office room. You sighed shaking your head as you put the phone to your ear.

"Hello?" You gave your introduction as Jinx's homeroom teacher before adding, "Uh— Jinx has gotten herself into trouble for the third time in a row this week. You're requested to come and talk with me personally or this might go on her permanent record."

You could hear Sevika let out and annoyed sigh before she grumbled a brief, "Alright, I'll be there."

You put the phone down, sitting down behind your desk, "How long have you been with Sevika?" You asked, legs crossing under the table.

"Since I was six?" Jinx shrugged, looking around the office.

"What's your next class?" You asked, tidying up your desk hastily, Sevika would likely be there any moment

"Physics," Jinx answered, swinging her legs back and forth.

"You should get going then, I'll talk with your guardian," you said giving her a brief smile and Jinx nodded, getting up and out of your office. You sighed, "Let's just hope she doesn't tag anymore walls..."

Your office room opened a while later and Sevika walked inside. "Good morning," you said and fixed her with a smile.

Sevika pulled up a chair, grumbling out a small, "'Mornin'."

You opened Jinx's file, "Unfortunately, Jinx has gotten into way too many fights in the past week and she's had maximum number of detentions this week. I'd have no other choice but to suspend her for three days. However, it may go on her permanent record."

"Permanent record? Shit," Sevika crossed her arms, a stressed expressing flashing on her face for a second before she asked, "There's no way to counter it?"

"Counter..." You repeated after her, hands slowly closing the file as you pondered over the thought. "Well, I guess, I could make an exception," you smirked slightly, "Meet me behind the school."

What was supposed to be a small date, an innocent advantage from your side turned into a heavy makeout session outside a restaurant where the both of you had a dinner date, Sevika's hands holding your waist and yours on her shoulders.

"You're enjoying this, aren't you?" Sevika teased making you blush, "I didn't think we'd take it so far."

"Neither me," you mumbled, shifting from one foot to another because of your uncomfortable heels.

"You okay?" Sevika asked, sensing your discomfort.

"My feet are killing me," you answered and say no more. Sevika picked you up bridal style, one hand under your knees and the other cradling you close to her chest.

"Better?"

"Better," you grinned up at her.

[angelcakestarlet]

salvatore

richie jerimovich x reader - richie makes carmy regret hiring the cute young waitress

wrote dis quick, messy, nd did not look over it but enjoy! :>

"so um look, natalie is going to be training you this week alright" carmy informs you as he sifts through a pile of papers scattering his desk. "you ever serve before?", "for a few months yeah, it's been getting me through college so" you twiddle your thumbs nervously. the restaurant was certainly... intimidating? going to school in chicago you had stopped by a couple times for lunch or drunk off your ass after the club. even while slurring your words you could remember how fucking good that sandwich was. even if most of it was puked up in the bushes out front.

"yo, cousin!" an abrasive voice comes stumbling through carmy's office door without warning, "sugar is out here telling me some bullshit about you hiring servers? look we don't need that shit. a sandwich comes out i fucking hand it to them, boom. why are you gonna pay some dipshit to do it for me?". you turn around to face the loud voice, being met with a tall, tan, buzzcut typical line cook with a deep accent. "jesus fucking christ, one of these 'dipshits' is standing in front of you richie." carmy yells back, obviously pained to have you witness that. "ah shit-" richie steps back to get a full length view of you, taking you in. his gaze felt like an intrusion. "i'm sorry, doll, richie jerimovich." he envelopes your hand in his calloused and rough one, introducing himself. "you know what i'm sorry, cousin, anyone with a set of eyes would hire her too" he snickers, with his hand still atop yours he takes his eyes away from you to acknowledge carmen. "cousin, get the fuck out, you fucking creep!" signaling for the door. "oh my god" richie sighs dramatically, "i'm stating the fucking obvious alright, you need marcus to come in here to tell you the same thing? yo, marcus!" carmen rushes to shove richie out the door, "i'm sorry, i couldn't help myself! look, you're beautiful, sweetheart!" he lets out one last compliment. you giggle to yourself and the man making a spectacle of himself.

carmen shuts the office door and sighs, rubbing his forehead with his tired hand. "i'm sorry, he's... he's a fucking jagoff." you appreciate the apology, but having worked in a restaurant has you accustomed to the snickers and comments from line cooks and customers alike. most of the girls usually brush it off, leaving them disgusted and a distaste for the job for the next few hours. but, your guilty pleasure has become using it to your benefit. free food from cooks, more money from tips, etc. you're sure you could work richie to your benefit just the same. "don't worry about it, he seems... nice" your ease settles carmy and he snickers, "you could say that i guess".

you follow natalie around the restaurant for the next few hours as she takes you through the front of the house and back, introducing you to everyone and all the standards. when five o clock hits, she lets you go, handing you an apron, a t-shirt. and a name tag. thanking her and setting out to find the back alley for a quick ciggy. you find richie lighting a cigarette in the dimly lit alley, "can i bum a cigarette?" you sit down beside him, smelling the smoke clinging to his shirt. "its your first day and you're asking me for shit?" he looks over at you and you notice his evident wrinkles, veins in his neck, and tired eyes. "pretty please?" you look up at him, turning your whole body to face him with a sweet smile on your face. he rolls his eyes playfully, "you know what you're doing huh?" he says as he pulls one more cigarette from its box. "open." you scrunch your eyebrows, confused at his request. his eyes shift to your lips, taking two fingers and tapping your cheek signaling for you to open your mouth. "come on," you separate your lips and he places a cigarette between them, lighting it swiftly. you feel your cheeks get warm, from the cigarette or from his words you don't know (yes you do). "thank you" you say quietly, still stunned a bit. "you know you're gonna ruin that sweet face smoking" he coughs through the lit cigarette. "oh are you telling me what to do now, richie?" you lean back, eyes entranced by the way his hands make the cigarette almost look like a lollipop stick. "a girl like you is probably looking for someone to tell her what to do, sweetheart". as you're trying to figure out whether that just pissed you off or turned you on, carmy bursts through the back door. "cousin, what the fuck are you doing?! we need you in the kitchen, now please! and leave the new girl alone, jesus" carmy yells as richie stomps on what's left of his cigarette and puts his hands up in defense. "i'm coming, fuck off. it was a pleasure, babe" he shakes your hand and makes his way inside. you peer at the closed door, listening to the muffled argument carmy and richie have in front of it. great first day.

[gamerbunny1996]

Jschlatt x Famous reader

The Singer and the YouTuber

It's finally here I finish the first part of this story I hope you guys enjoy. sorry it took so long a tone of stuff happened and I started a new job but I'm going to try and finish a lot of my half written work now

Readers text is just black

Pips (sorry just picked a name for the readers friend you can change it) is red

Ted's is blue

Schlatts is orange

“Welcome back to two idiots on a couch, Pip what is today's topic” I say into the mic looking over to my best friend. “I personally think we should talk about this little crush you have,” she tells me. I roll my eyes. “And this is why I don't tell you things” I mentioned. Pip laughed. I lean back into the couch bringing my mic closer. 

“I don't like today's topic,” I said.

“Too bad I'm the one who chooses them and that's what I want to talk about,” Pip said.

“Fine what would you like me to say about it”

“Who is it”

“I'm not saying that don't need them finding out”

“Oh come on your lame”

“Says the one who has a boyfriend and I can't tease you about a crush”

Pip rolled her eyes.

“I will say is we have never talked before I don't even think he knows who I am”

“How do you know that he might know you”

“At least from what I can tell he doesn't, he doesn't follow me on any social medias”

“Wait really that's lame your like super famous”

“We are super famous”

“Can we just say you have like a big big crush on this man”

“He's cute what can I say and he's close to my age if we want to talk about crushes I got a huge thing for Andy Biersack”

“Everyone has a thing for that man”

“You don't”

“Fair”

“ Come on, tell the audience at least a hint of who you like. Y/n you are like head over heels for this man”

“Fine I'm going so basic there is no way anyone can figure it out he has brown hair and brown eyes”

“That could be almost any guy that's so lame”

“I don't want them guessing who it is that fast”

“Can you at least give them one more hint”

“He doesn't do music he is a YouTuber though”

“But that doesn't narrow it down by much”

I roll my eyes “that's the point”

“Please give them a good hint”

I groan “fine this should really narrow it down I have never talked to him before but I have talked to one of his friends who also does YouTube that friend does follow me in Instagram and I follow back”

“Now that's more like it”

“I swear if they figure this out your dead”

“Worth it”

I roll my eyes. We continue the podcast for another hour talking about coming up music we have been working on. Once we stopped recording I went to my office and started to do some editing for some music. Trying to get my mind off today's podcast, my mind kept drifting to the fact I pretty much exposed who I like. I'm just hoping no one can figure it out. To my luck in the other room Pip was texting Ted about getting me on to his podcast so I can talk to my crush. Pip was laughing to herself the whole time texting. 

After a few hours of working I walked out of my office locking it up. “Going home,” Pip asked, laying on the couch staring at her phone. “Yeah it's late and we have lots to do tomorrow." We both say our goodbyes and I walk to the elevator heading down.

A week later I was working on some projects in my office when I got a text on discord. I saw it was from Ted. I opened the message.

“Hey Y/n I was wondering if you wanted to be on next week's chuckle sandwich podcast”

My eyes widened, I wasn't expecting to be on his podcast. Deep down in my gut I knew there was a reason. I just typed sure and went back to work but was having a hard time focusing. I'm about to be on the podcast with my crush. I soon got a text back saying the record Monday that's in three days from today. I went onto my calendar and marked it in. Sighing out I lean back into my chair staring at the ceiling. 

Monday came around and I woke up early enough to actually do my hair and makeup for once. I just put a sweater on and shorts because I still wanted to be comfy. I got into my car and drove all the way to the office. Once I got there I made it up to the third floor and got into my office turning everything on. I texted Pip to grab me a dr pepper with cream in it. I was so nervous I forgot to pick it up today. 

I opened up discord and waited to join the call. I turned my face cam on. While I waited I started to work on other projects I had to do before the end of the month. Soon the ding of someone inviting me to a call happened. I opened discord and saw Ted invited me to the group call. I clicked in and soon I was met with three faces. “Hello” I wave. “I didn't think you'd join,” Ted said as I rolled my eyes. “I wouldn't have said yes to being a guest on your podcast if I wasn't going to join” I tell Ted. Ted laughed. “Fair enough anyway Y/n this is Tucker and Schlatt” Ted introduced the other two. “Nice to meet you two” I say.

We talked about what the podcast was going to be about then we started to record. They did their introduction. After they introduce me.

“Well Y/n tell us a little bit about you so the audience knows who you are” Ted spoke

“Well hi I'm Y/n if you don't know who I am that's a little shocking but I'm the lead singer of the band Nightmare. My best friend is my drummer. I think we have like over 50 million subscribers on that channel. And yeah that's me” 

“Lame” Schlatt soon spoke

“What's so lame about being in a band”

“A lot actually”

“Your lame”

“Alright you two let's not argue”

Soon a knock can be heard. I look away. Pip walked in with my large drink. I smiled and grabbed it. She nodded and walked out.

“Ooo look someone got a special delivery”

“Oh shut it Schlatt I need my caffeine for the day”

I take a sip from my drink and put it down. 

“I got to know what is the most expensive thing you own,” Tucker asked.

“Hold on let me grab it” I took my headphones off and rolled to the side out of frame now grabbing my guitar. I rolled myself back into frame and put my headphones back on. Holding my guitar up.

“This baby right here probably cost more than your worth. I want to say she costs about 4.8 million dollars. Why so much no clue probably because it's mine and I'm expensive.”

“That guitar is gorgeous”

I laugh a little from Ted's responses. “She is a custom white and gold 1968 stratocaster my uncle got it for me when I was ten. My first ever electric guitar.”

“How much did it cost before now”

“Well if I wasn't famous and how much it did cost it was close to 2,000. My red grand piano is a close second to most expensive”

“Are you just trying to show off at this point?” Schlatt said.

“No if I wanted to show off I would play my guitar but I'm not going to”

“Shhhh Schlatt I want to hear more about this piano” Ted butts in.

“It was a gift I got, if I could I would bring it to the grave when I die”

The podcast went on and we kept changing different topics until one came up I wasn't expecting to come up.

“So y/n I watched your podcast about a week ago and I got to know who this crush is” Ted smirked. I can tell he knew something and I knew it was pips doing. 

“I have no further information on that” 

“Oh come on Ted can't bring this up and you just push it away” Schlatt said.

“Well I got nothing to say about it”

“Oh come on, that's a lie. I know some hints to whom it may be come on tell us at least another hint”

Schlatt raised an eyebrow “what were the hints before”

“lets see what I can remember I know she said it he doesn't do music and he has brown hair and brown eyes”

“That's like no hints”

“That's what I'm saying”

I roll my eyes “those are so hints do you realize how many people that are musicians that I talk to”

“Didn't you say he doesn't know you”

“Kinda yeah”

“What does kinda mean”

I just shrugged. “Who knows”

“Can you tell us another hint”

“I don't even know what a good hint would be”

“I got one where does he live”

“Not California”

“Okay that's like one out of thousands of places”

“Fine he lives in America”

“Okay so we have 49 states to choose from”

“Yep”

“Can't you tell us what side of America”

“East? Maybe”

“Maybe”

“I don't know I know it's not west”

“That still doesn't help much”

“I'm not saying the exact state that will really narrow it down plus it's more fun watching people try to figure it out”

“Can we at least get another small hint”

“I don't even know anymore at this point that won't give it away”

“Why are you being so secretive about it”

“Because I don't need people know”

“It can't be that bad”

“It's not like that I just don't need my little heartbreaking when they don't like me back”

“How would you know they don't if they don't even know”

“Because I'm scared of rejection”

“Alright I think that's going to do it on today episode thank you so much for the queen herself y/n”

“Thank you for having me this was fun even with Schlatt's attitude this whole time”

“I do not”

And right then they ended the podcast. I said my goodbyes and said I really had to go but in all honesty I didn't think I was going to last much longer talking to Schlatt. I lean back in my chair and sigh. I think I made it obvious by the way I talked to Schlatt that I liked him. Well the fanbase will know because they know how I talk to certain people. 

I got up from my chair and walked out. The office wasn't full as it usually was. It was kinda weird but I just ignored it and walked to the elevator. I went down to the first floor and walked to the kitchen grabbing out some pizza rolls for my lunch. As I waited for them to heat up I played on my phone. I soon saw that Schlatt started to follow me on all my social media. I raised my eyebrow in confusion and followed him back. 

I didn't think much more of it and put my phone in my pocket. Grabbing my plate from the microwave I went back up to my office. I sat and ate my lunch while working on some projects. I had a huge album dropping in a month and I was trying to finish the last bit of editing. I was about to start on the next song when a discord call came in. I was confused. I clicked in and saw it was from Schlatt. I answered it not really knowing why he wanted to talk to me.

“Um hello”

“What's up toots”

“Is there a reason you called”

“Yeah actually I was wondering if you wanted to join me and the crew for chuckle week”

“Well depends on when it is I'm kinda super busy with a lot of stuff”

“It's in two weeks there in LA so you don't even have to travel far and it's only one day you have to do.”

“So like what is it you do for this chuckle week”

“Well you will be joining us on a couch for a podcast but that same night Ted wants to do a drunk cooking video with you and your friend she is also invited for the podcast”

“Ill have to ask her but let me check my calendar” I bring up my calendar on my other monitor. I looked at the day he was thinking and I noticed it was Nightmares annual Halloween late night talk we do that night.

“I can do the podcast part but I don't know about the drunk cooking me and Pip have our Halloween late night talk thing we do for Halloween”

“Oh what time do you start that”

“Like midnightish”

“We should be done with the drunk cooking by like 10 so two hours before that”

“Let me talk with Pip and I'll let you know alright”

“Sure sounds good I'll leave you alone now”

“Alright bye”

I ended the call and stood up. I walk out of my office I walked over to Pips. I open the door and she was there working on editing a video.

“Hey Pip I just got a call from Jschlatt asking if we want to join them for some podcast thing and to do a drunk cooking video in like two weeks it's the same day as our Halloween special.”

“Sure I'm down”

“Cool I'll let them know don't forget to mark it on your calendar”

“I won't”

After that I walked back out. I sigh and walk back to my office. Sitting down I brought discord up. I clicked onto Schlatt's icon. I just stared at the screen, not sure what to say. My nerves are going crazy. I started to tap my foot. Anxiety comes over my body. I put my hands over the keyboard. I just typed fast, she said yeah so yeah. After that was sent I shut down my computer not really wanting to see his responses. The next two weeks are going to be pure torture waiting for this day.

(I hope that wasn't too bad I kinda rushed it towards the end just wanting to get this out)

[tothosewholisten]

Forever Healed | TUA insert

Chapter 00: The Beginning of the End

next chapter>>

Masterlist

…

On the 12th hour of the first day of October 1989. 43 women around the world gave birth. This was unusual in the fact that none of these women had been pregnant when the day first began.

Sir Reginald Hargeeves, eccentric billionaire and adventurer, resolved to locate and adopt as many of the children as possible.

He got seven of them, yes seven.

..

MARCH 21, 2019

I have to be at least somewhat proud of myself for lasting this long. I thought as I sat on the bus, not everyday you are born with magical powers and are destined to save the world from evil. Yes, hearing myself think that sounds crazy. But that's normal in my life.

I had reached my stop after a half an hour of sitting with my earbuds in, listening to nothing at all. I just wanted to seem unapproachable on the sketchy city bus.

My destination was a terribly designed office building, the space was so crammed and ugly it made me want to turn right back around and get on that bus again. But I didn't because I was trying to convince myself that this would be good for me, but I didn't believe my words.

I was about to have a therapy session with some middle-aged white lady who has glasses and tell her all of my life issues, starting every week at 5pm..

It's not like I had anything else going on, I haven't had work for days now. So I thought I'd give it a shot.

The waiting process made me anxious as hell, I finally got the courage to walk up to the front desk and gave the man who sat there my name. And now I have to wait for this lady to get done with some other patient.

I sat on a chair and frowned, like she is really going to be focused on "my" problems and not the 30 other people she sees today.

I swear it was only a second into me zoning out when I heard my name yelled. "Y/n L/n? It's so nice to meet you!" A woman said, when i looked up at her i saw the exact lady i was describing earlier to the closest details.

I let her lead me to a smaller room that looked way better than the lobby. It had two chairs, a water machine, some fidget items and a large window view of the city. Gloria, I learn to be the name of my therapist, asks me to sit with her.

She clears her throat, "I know this is our first session so you may not be the most comfortable sharing details. But I'd like to know a little bit about you if you're okay sharing."

“Well, I’m 29 years old and a home care nurse.” I say slowly. Hearing the words leave my mouth I knew I haven’t amounted to a lot in my years.

"Oh wow, 29? I would've never guessed that Y/n, you don't look a day over 21" Gloria complimented me i give her a tiny smile in return.

I'm not sure why that is, I get that a lot in my working field. Older women saying that they wished they looked as young as me.

"That's a great start for today's session." She smiles, "A little bit me is, you know my name already but I'm 56 years old since Monday. I have 3 children and a cat named Mr. Furball."

I regret what i said earlier because I think I already like Gloria and not just because of Mr. Furball. But the fact that she has a calming sense about her. I find myself listening to what she's saying, and I rarely do that with people nowadays.

"But I would like to hear more about your upbringing, how’d you become the fine young lady you are today?" She says.

Oh, she wants to hear about my childhood. I mean I knew she would ask but so soon, I'm worried about saying anything. So I told her that.

"I'm worried about opening up to someone about my past cause well I've never done it before." I said.

She hands me a cup of water. "That's okay Y/n, we can take it at your pace."

“I grew up in a small house with my mom and dad until I was twelve. When I was scouted by Reginald Hargreeves because of my unique abilities. And I've been there ever since I was 18 when I moved out to live on my own.” I waited for the burst of confusion I was about to get from Gloria. Not everyday one of the Umbrella Academy walks into your office.

“Oh wow…” she says, eyes wide. “You're one of those superheroes? That’s amazing wow.” She nervously chuckles “I’m sorry I’m normally not this shocked about things, and I hear a lot on the daily.”

“It’s okay” I say, staring at my hands.

She clears her throat. “I'm sure being apart of the Umbrella Academy was big but could you tell me about your life before that?”

I closed my eyes for a couple of seconds, pictured my childhood in my brain and opened my mouth.

"Well, I'm sure to this day my father still thinks that my mother cheated on him, due to his "daughter's" virgin Mary-like creation since they were just newlyweds. He held it against my mother all of her life." I took a sip of water and continued.

"I'm not sure why he turned to alcohol. But that turned out as you could expect. He turned on everyone around him and acted like a beast. He regularly attacked my mom for anything she did wrong. But what made him more angry was that his freak of a daughter could heal her mother, after every beating."

"My mom told me before I left I had made her so much happier and in her words. She didn't even question these strange occurrences; she knew her baby was special." I smiled a bit.

I could tell that Gloria was painting a picture in her head of what I was describing too.

"And by the age of 8, I was standing up to my father, even if it didn't end so well. I'd get the beating instead but by the next day, my bloody body would be as good as new. On the surface at least, I had lots of internal issues from that time. But none of that stopped my father from trying to get equal with me.." I stopped talking after that.

My eyes could only focus on my right hand as it was picking at my left hand's skin. It was a habit I picked up as soon as I started to use my powers because I knew my skin would be right back to normal in the next few minutes.

"That's awful y/n I'm so sorry." She frowned. "Would you be okay with continuing?"

I blink up at her. “Yes, that would be okay,” I said. “Then there was this one day..”

..

17 YEARS AGO

“In five, four, three, two. This is Jim Hellerman, reporting live for channel 2 News outside of the Capital West Bank at Main and Sixth. A group of heavily armed men stormed the bank not three hours ago and took an unknown number of hostages.”

That was the big news update of September 2002, I remember. Well I don’t really have to think about it much because I was there with my mom at the bank. She planned on making some deposit when we were screamed at, not to leave by a man who had his gun pointed at us along with so many other civilians. He taped us up and told us to stand in a corner.

That was the first and only time I feared for my life. Police didn’t want them to start shooting, so they didn’t come into the building. Meaning that we were on our own and could die at anytime

One of the armed men walks into the scene unfolding. Sirens blaring, people getting shoved around and threats being made to the innocent.

“Now you’ve put me in a position where I gotta do something I don't want to do. Hmm?” He said talking to another person on his walkie talkie.

My mom brought me closer to her trying to use her body as a shield if things went south. And to us we thought they were about to be.

But strangely, a girl walked up to the man. She’d looked to be around my age in a school uniform and cartoon mask. Her loose curls bounced in the wind as she skipped up to him.

“Shit!” He screams putting his device down. Not noticing the girl until a few seconds after his outburst. “Hey, get back with the others.” He told her, trying to sound intimidating but she didn’t seem to fear him at all.

“I heard a rumor.” She spoke out.

He bent a little to reach her height and get in her face. “What? What did you say?”

She leaned in and cupped her hand to mimic whispering in his ear but loud enough for all of us to hear. “I heard a rumor that you shot your friend in the foot.”

Without any hesitation he did what she commanded and shot the nearest armed man who happened to be trying to rough up my mom. We screamed as he kept shooting.

“We just heard shots from inside the bank. It’s uncertain if any hostages have been harmed in that.”

“There’s some movement on the roof. Possibly law enforcement.”

A loud crash and a boy landed down from the roof. It was crazy he wasn’t harmed at all from that high distance. He was also wearing the same mask and uniform as the girl but he had blond hair. From where he landed he jumped on one of the robbers and started beating him to a pulp, and then throwing him out a glass window.

“Looks like one of the armed robbers had been thrown from the bank.”

Another boy with brown hair runs in from the opposite doors as the girl and yells. “Guns are for sissies. Real men throw knives.” He then threw one of his knives and it curved in the air hitting a robber no where close to where the knife had originally been heading. It was incredible.

“I've been in many hostage situations like this, and it can escalate very quickly.”

The original man hops on a table pointing his gun out at the two of the before seen children plus another one. “Get back you freaks” he says walking back and forth in fear.

“Hey, be careful up there, buddy.” The knife boy calls out.

“Get back now!” The man screams.

“Yeah, I wouldn't want you to get hurt.” The girls mocking voice says.

Right before my eyes another boy teleports behind the man, sitting criss-cross on the table. “Or what?” He said calmly.

The man turns around and shoots at him but before the bullets could hit he teleports again. This time standing up with his arms crossed, clearly not impressed. But the man tries to shoot again.

“Ooh! That’s one badass stapler!” The boy laughs. The man no longer had a gun anymore but a stapler placed in his hand by the kid instead. The boy shoves the stapler into his face and the big man falls back, head hitting the floor before his body does.

“Although there’s been no activity for a few minutes, we’re gonna stay live on location to make sure we don’t miss a thing. In this hostage situation at the Capital West bank.”

The five already counted for children make way for the last and shortest one to make his move. “Do we really need to do this?” He talks quietly.

The blonde one replies to him. “Come on, Ben. There’s more guys in the vault.” So his name was Ben huh?

Ben sighs, “I didn't sign up for this.” Before walking into the room with more people. Large black tendrils illuminated the room as men screaming could be heard behind the door. And a beast roars but then the sound stops and Ben walks out again, this time covered in blood and guts.

He breathes heavily. “Can we go home now?” I felt bad for him.

The kids untied our hands and told us to run. And once it was clear to go my mom started to run out of the doors thinking I was right behind her.

“Now we see the hostages. They— They’re free. They’re scared clearly but they do seem to be unharmed.”

But I was behind her trying to help this older woman who’d slipped on the floor. As I was helping her, the kids walked out too.

“People are coming out now. It’s not the armed robbers. These are schoolchildren in uniforms with masks on. Jim Hellerman, Channel 2 News.”

But there was one not accounted for robber, the one from earlier who had been shot in the foot. I started to run out and call out to my mom who was outside. When the man got up from the floor, cocked his gun and shot at the kids.

Fortunately, he missed them but the bullet hit me.

Questions being asked to the children stopped when they saw my body flail onto the floor outside of the bank doors. I was shot right in the chest. There was blood everywhere and it started to leak over to where the kids were standing. They turned around to see where it was coming from..

Everyone looked horrified and there was a bunch of screaming. Mainly from my mother who was wailing as she ran over to hold me to her chest screaming for me to wake up. And that will be engraved in my memory forever after this day, I never wanted to hear her like this ever again.

Police started to rush over but in a matter of minutes, a miracle seemed to happen. At least to the city that is. There was a yellowish glow around my chest and the blood seemed to have reversed back into my body. Even the stains on my blue dress were gone. The bullet even spit out of my chest; it was truly witchcraft.

My eyes then shot open as I started to breathe in and out.

I don't exactly remember what I felt during those moments but I'm sure I left those people around me stunned. After all this was their first look at powers.

I couldn't care what the paramedics were talking about above my body. I was focused on the 6 children looking at me bewildered as well as the old-looking man with them and whatever my mom was saying at the time.

I was put on a stretcher and rushed to a hospital for evaluations after the pandemics came but they never found anything. It was like everything was perfectly reattached.

But as I was leaving I could see the news reporters zeroing in on the kids trying to get the details on how these children saved the bank from thievery.

“Our world is changing.” The man spoke to the crowd. “Has changed. There are some among us gifted with abilities far beyond the ordinary.” He said looking back at the children. But they weren’t paying attention, some were staring at my ambulance and some eyes were on the ground.

“I have adopted seven such children. I give you the inaugural class of the Umbrella Academy.”

I now realize thinking back, the seventh person he was talking about was me..

..

PRESENT DAY

My mouth felt like it was moving faster than my brain so I took a pause and chugged the rest of my water cup.

Once again Glorias eyes were wide open. As she took some notes down in a notebook I never noticed beyond this point.

"Uh once I got home I remember the house phone noise filled my house with its nonstop ring, the other person on the phone would change my life forever when he came in.”

“And who was that person?" Gloria asked.

"Reginald Hargeeves, eccentric billionaire and caring father from what the public knew.." I rolled my eyes.

"So I'm guessing it wasn't really like that" she asked carefully.

"He was never a father really, more like a hard state-national basketball coach." She wrote that down.

"I guess it was a hard decision for my parents to make well, my mother. My father was ready to give me up as soon as Reginald stepped foot in my small house."

"And I'm sure they thought there was nothing bad about the offer they were given, he promised I'd be raised in a steady environment with the best schooling and my powers would be used for the greater good. And in exchange, my parents would get a large sum of money for my absence."

"What were you doing during this?" Gloria worried.

"I think I was just sitting right there next to my mom actually. I definitely didn't understand at that point what was happening to me. Still thinking about the events of that day.”

"And then I was being taken out of my only home in the blink of an eye. I resisted the people taking me, starting with screaming and then kicking and then running. Back to my mom's arms, Reginald himself had to pull me away from her. The deal had already been struck and there was no taking me back."

Now looking back at my hands I could only see small teardrops on my palms. Gloria reached for a tissue from the other side of the room. "Thank you," I said as I wiped my eyes.

"I like to think that my mom was upset that day but the memory has already started to fade as I reached adulthood.

You know after that day I was no longer 'Y/n L/n' no, I was known by my new name.. Zero Hargeeves."

..

I decided that was the end of my story, at least for now because I couldn't place the pieces together anymore. I was full-on sobbing at that point.

Gloria decided to bring up something more light to talk about next but I don't remember what it was because I'd zoned out and thought about the cat she'd told me about earlier.

The two hours seemed to fly by because the last thing I heard her say was if I didn't have anything else to talk about then that would be the end of the session. My legs seemed to move on their own as I walked out of that building. I would come back at the same time next week and honestly, I think therapy was for the best. I forgot about how I felt about all these things for the longest time.

I started the journey back to the bus stop, stopping to look in the windows of shops.

Shops like bakeries and bookstores and other things like that. Until I came to a stop in front of a store with a TV sticking out in the window.

My eyes scanned the screen and they went wide. The lady on the news had a somber expression as someone died. I was feeling sad for the person's family, but then I read the red-blaring headline.

The person who died was Reginald Hargeeves...

...

Aug 14 update:

If you'd like to be added to the tag list for rest of the series (starts at chapter 10) say taglist in the comments!

[apollabarnes]

part three

"—and then he has the gall to ask if we can fly him back up to the top so he can get his fucking selfie," tommy rants, gesturing wildly with his hands.

"what did you say?"

"that if he wanted to keep his leg we should probably go straight to the hospital," tommy concedes, making athena laugh. "his leg wasn't actually in danger but none of us wanted to reward him for it."

"and here i thought the guy who threw up glittery gummi bears in the back of my cruiser would take the cake this week."

tommy grimaces, pushing his leftover onion rings in front of athena. "if that was a trick to get the rest of these, i applaud your methods."

"harry asked me if i had photos of the backseat," athena offers dryly.

"gross," tommy says, shaking his head.

it's been a rough week. half the pilots at harbor are out with food poisoning, and tommy doesn't even have time to feel smug about the fact he told the others that deli seemed sketchy because he's been taking enough shifts that if it wasn't an emergency, he'd have been grounded two days ago. he'd caved, texting athena to say he was exhausted and skipping the meeting and he'd see her some other time. they didn't really communicate outside of their semi-regular meetings, so he knew that she'd understand it wasn't a casual brush off. she'd texted him back an address and a time.

tommy wants to be surprised athena had picked up on the fact that if she gave him an inch he would have taken it and gone running; would have stopped going to their meeting; might have stopped going to all of them, period. would have stopped whatever this is. he's not. there's a reason she's the best at her job.

"you want to talk about it?"

"too many flights, not enough pilots." different day, same shit. tommy shrugs, twisting the straw wrapped around his finger. it's not an unfamiliar story to any first responder; there's never enough of them when things go bad. tommy would write to the mayor, but he needs to sleep before he goes back on duty.

"you getting enough rest in between?"

tommy snorts out a laugh. his sleep habits have been abysmal since he was a kid. sometimes having someone draped over him like a gigantic weighted blanket helps, but tommy isn't willing to hook up with a stranger just for that.

evan used to—

"enough," he says instead.

athena hums.

"how's everything going with you?" tommy asks. athena has a way of letting tommy talk without saying too much about herself, and he appreciates it — her life is so entwined with the 118 that (when he wants to be uncharitable with himself) it feels like spying on his ex — but there's a point where avoidance becomes selfish on his end. so he makes sure athena has a chance to vent, even if hearing about them sometimes makes him squirm.

"i'm worried about that idiot rookie. he's a disaster waiting to happen, and there's nothing we can do until he messes up."

"you warned his new training officer?"

"mmhmm."

"and your superiors?"

"that's right."

"i think that's the most you can hope for," tommy sits back, looking at athena. he's been staring at the spectre of a car crash in front of him since he was sixteen and waiting to see if he can manage to avoid it. he can see the same wariness in her. "you've put up as many defences and roadblocks as you can. everyone is going in with their eyes open. what happens next isn't on you."

"it would be nice if it actually felt like that was true," athena mutters, finishing the last of tommy's abandoned onion rings.

"sure would," tommy agrees. it's never felt like that.

"darius' lease is up in a few months," athena changes the subject abruptly. "three guesses what may wants to do."

tommy can feel his heart seize and his breath catches in his throat. why be apart when we can be together? "i think i only need one."

"if i had a leg to stand on i'd tell her she was being foolish, but."

"she's twenty three. it'll be good for her."

part one // part two

[thebisexualdogdad]

With the new rookie season you gotta do more Lucy!!!

Maybe something like Lucy meets a PI who’s working a similar case as her and the two slowly flirt and nerd out on common interests.

Lucy Chen x Male!reader

● as a private investigator you were hired to follow a man who's wife was accusing him of cheating

● lucky for her he wasn't cheating, unluckily for her he became entangled with a gang selling drugs and now he's missing

● which is how you meet officer Lucy Chen

● “Excuse me? What do you think you're doing? This is a crime scene you can't be here,” she questions as you're looking at the faces of a bunch of newly deceased individuals after a drug deal gone wrong trying to ID your clients husband

● “I'm a private investigator, Y/N Y/L/N, I've been hired by Mary Jameson to track down her husband Luke Jameson who is involved with all this”

● “do you see him here?”

● “no but-”

● “then I'm gonna have to ask you to leave”

● you don't actually leave, you just hang around outside the crime scene tape waiting to get any more information on where you're missing guy might be

● “he's still here?” Harper asks Lucy who has been keeping an eye on you for the last several hours

● “yeah he thinks I'm gonna tell him details about the case because he's a PI”

● “PI's are the worst,” Lopez chimes in

● “I thought lawyers were the worst?”

● “they are but I'm not married to a PI,” she laughs, “he says he's looking for a guy who deals for this gang right? Lucy take him to the station and find out everything he knows, he may actually be useful in helping us fill in some missing pieces”

● back at the station Lucy has you in an interrogation room, questioning you about Luke

● you tell her you've been tailing him for three weeks, he went missing two days ago handing over the photos you have of him dealing drugs as well as meeting up with the leader of the gang

● you actually were quite helpful for Lucy

● and even a little bit flirty

● and to your surprise Lucy was flirting back

● you find out you like the same TV shows and music artists

● you spend a little too long talking about the latest season of your favorite show

● but just as you're about to ask her on a date to get to know her more Lopez and Harper interrupt bringing your attention back to the case at hand

● Lucy relays all the information to them and thanks you for the help

● and after you leave Lopez asks her, “were you flirting with the PI?”

● “no of course not that would be unprofessional”

● Lopez and Harper simultaneously “they were flirting”

● you show up at the station again the next morning with coffee and breakfast sandwiches to see if they have any new leads on Luke

● “you brought me coffee?”

● “with almond milk and a shot of espresso”

● “how did you know that's how I drink my coffee?”

● “I'm a private investigator remember, it's my job to know those kind of things”

● you and Lucy end up working together to find out that Luke is being held captive by a rival gang

● the cops raid the warehouse and free him though he is arrested in the process due to your photos of him dealing drugs which his wife is certainly not going to be happy about

● “Guess this is the end of our team up,” Lucy tells you when she returns to the station with another officer towing behind with Luke in handcuffs

● “Seems so but it doesn't mean it has to be the last time we see each other right? Can I take you out to dinner sometime?”

● “yeah, that would be nice”

● “great, I'll get us a reservation at the blue orchid”

● “that's my favorite restaurant how did you- oh right private investigator,” she laughs

[aforeffective]

parent teacher conference

a helping hand au story | paul + pony centric

*warning for teacher being a dick about the curtis parents' death*

bird and i have never decided on a solid timeline for the au but in my brain this is like 5/6 weeks after the curtis parents' death and like 1/2 weeks after paul gets legal custody of the boys

paul followed pony through the hallway, letting the younger boy lead the way. “it’s so weird being back here.”

pony rolled his eyes playfully. “you graduated 2 years ago, stop acting so high and mighty.”

“yeah, graduated 2 years ago and now i’m back here for my 14 year old kid’s meeting with his teacher. so yeah, it’s a bit weird.”

pony froze for a second, like he was only just realizing just how weird the situation was. “fair enough.”

“so what is this meeting even about?” paul asked as pony seemed to get over his shock and continued walking.

“something about how im slacking in class? which, for the record, i’ve done all the work. i mean, yeah i'm struggling a bit because of everything but i swear i've done it all. the guy just hates me.”

“well for the record, this guy hated me too.”

pony looked up at paul with a raised eyebrow. “what’d you do?”

“your brother was very distracting.”

pony scrunched his face up. “gross.”

“what? ew, not in a gross way. god, i just meant we sat next to each other and we fooled around a lot. did you really think i was saying the teacher hated me cause i had the hots for your brother?”

pony’s eyes widened as he moved to cover his ears. “oh my god! ew! i’m gonna cut my ears off, why would you say that?!”

“you were the one that implied it!”

“gross," pony removed his hands from over his ears as he comes to a stop. "whatever. we’re here now, it’s this door,” pony gestured weakly at the door they had stopped in front of.

“well, here goes nothing.” paul went to reach for the door handle.

pony quickly cleared his throat. “knock. he doesn’t like when people don’t knock.”

paul quickly nodded, shifting his hand away from the handle to instead knock on the door.

paul knocked and upon getting a positive response, opened the door. he ushered pony into the room in front of him before entering himself.

mr fuller didn’t look up from the papers on his desk, instead just speaking. “mr curtis, i must say you are a difficult man to get a hold of. i’ve been urgently trying to get a meeting set up in regards to ponyboy’s slacking and it’s just been-” he finally looked up from the paper to see paul standing in front of him. his eyes narrowed, clearly displeased. “paul holden. you’re not darrel curtis.”

paul and pony shared a glance before paul responded. “i see you’re still as observant as you were when i was in your class.”

mr fuller didn’t seem to find paul’s comment amusing. instead, he continued scowling at paul. “well, darrell is a grown up now so i assumed he would know better than to send a friend in his place for a professional meeting, but i guess that was a foolish assumption on my part.”

pony’s mouth fell open, ready to defend his brother but paul placed a hand on his shoulder; a silent signal to not say anything that could get him in more trouble. instead, paul took the lead.

“for someone complaining that darry is difficult to get a hold of, you clearly don’t check your emails. pony, can you go wait out in the hallway please?” pony turned towards paul to argue but upon seeing the look on paul’s face, he knew he could trust paul to defend him and his brothers. nodding, pony went back out into the hall.

now that pony was gone, paul turned his focus back on mr fuller. “as i was saying, i actually personally took care of making sure all of pony’s teachers were emailed both by the front office and the guidance office to inform them of the situation. so if you are unaware, that means you don’t actually read any of the information sent to you by your employer. so that’s already a really bad look for you, on top of openly disrespecting a student’s legal guardian, after they respectfully came in to meet with you. so, you were saying about mr curtis?”

mr fuller had clearly not expected paul’s words as he hurriedly scrolled on his computer and flipped through papers on his desk. “you’ll have a forgive me, i seem to have forgotten the details of the situation. could you catch me up?”

paul sat down in the chair across from the desk. “well you should tell me what you already know so that i don’t have to waste time going over things you already know.”

despite the fact that paul was clearly winning whatever game the two seemed to find themselves in, mr fuller was determined to go down swinging. “well i believe it would be better if you just told me everything, so i can hear how it is from your perspective.”

“mr and mrs curtis passed away in a terrible accident. is that ringing any bells for you? did you at least check that email?”

mr fuller clearly did not appreciate being talked down to like this, especially not by a former student. “i’m aware of what happened to them,” he spoke stiffly.

paul felt bad using the curtis parents’ death as a gotcha moment, even if it was at the expense of a rude teacher in defense of the boys, so he finally got serious. "look, the state was going to take sodapop and ponyboy and stick them in a home and they would have been far away and no one wanted to see them get split up; from each other or from darry. so i took them in, adopted them. so now i'm their legal guardian, adoptive father, whatever you want to call me. darry and i are just trying to make sure they don't get uprooted from everything they know."

mr blank's face stayed flat, almost bored looking. "how admirable of you. i see you're still using darrel as your charity to make yourself feel like a good person."

his words felt like a stab to paul's heart. but if there was one thing paul was good at, it was not letting his face give away his emotions. so he pretended he didn't care, like that hadn't just validated all of the doubts he had been feeling about himself. "i'm sorry that as a teacher, it offends you that i'm just trying to do what's good for the kid. point is, i'm ponyboy's guardian so this is my meeting to have with you. so please, tell me what was so important about pony's work in your class that we had to meet."

"well, ponyboy is really struggling to keep up in the class. he's been falling behind on his work and doesn't show any interest in the class. seems like he thinks he's just too good for my class."

paul sucked on his teeth, thinking over his words carefully. "as mentioned, his parents were just killed in a horrific accident. and while my stepping in and adopting him stopped him from being taken out of tulsa, it's still a huge adjustment. i mean, he had to move out of his childhood house, he's living away from his oldest brother for the first time. it's a lot. give him some fucking grace."

"excuse you?" mr blank was taken aback but paul's language. he had clearly prepped for this meeting with the intention of it being with darry, who however mad he got, still would have been somewhat civil out of respect for ponyboy's education. paul, however, had no issue disrespecting someone who not only disrespected him but also the curtises.

"you heard me. he's going through a lot. give him a break."

"plenty of students are going through stuff. that's not my business. my business is making sure students get their work done and respect my class. all the other students seem to be able to keep up, so clearly this is a ponyboy issue."

paul let out a deep breath. as mentioned, he had no issue being rude back. but he could not afford to lose his temper with pony right out in the hall. he had made so much progress in getting pony and soda to trust him already in just a few weeks, he could not ruin that.

"fine. if pony is as behind in your class as you say he is, can you please provide me with a list of what he's missing? and then i will go through it with him and we'll make sure to get everything to you."

"well ponyboy is a big boy. if he can be moved up a grade, he should be able to keep track of his own work. without his 20 year old parent babysitting." the way mr blank said parent was laced with disgust.

"if you don't wish for darry or i to get involved, then why request a meeting at all?"

mr blank seemed to not have expected his question. he stammered for a second. "as a teacher, it is my responsibility to keep parents informed."

"well, i'm certainly informed about some stuff. just probably not the information you were hoping i would leave here thinking about; like how you don't read any emails from your higher ups, you don't seem to care about the well being of your students. or how blatantly disrespectful you were about pony's parents dying. all this to say, ponyboy told me prior to this meeting that he has turned in all the work and if you won't show me anything to back up your statement that he hasn't, then i will have to believe him. so?"

mr blank didn't say anything, simply scanning over the papers on his desk, looking for anything he could use to prove his point.

"cool, you clearly have nothing. have an awful life." paul got up from his chair and turned around, heading back to the door without waiting for a response.

he met with ponyboy out in the hallway, beginning to walk straight down the hallway. "come on. he's an asshole. but you have nothing to worry about. we're going to go and get you taken out of that class and get him reported. maybe even get him fired. and then i'm thinking ice cream. you want ice cream?" paul trailed off as he seemed to realize pony was still standing by the classroom door, eyes wide as he watched paul. "are you coming?"

pony seemed to snap out of the overwhelm he had felt for a second, instead replacing it with a smile on his face, pushing himself off the wall to catch up to paul. "yeah. yeah, ice cream sounds great."

[writingwisterias]

Omg!! Can u do a Chris Redfield x !readerfem and the reader is a BSAA nurse taking care of Chris when he comes back from a mission

(need them biceps ughhhggnmhjhagh)

Please and thank uuu ;) (sorry if my idea is boring lol pls forgive)

Hi!!

I am incredibly sorry this is so late, I wanted to work on a few of my longer fic ideas before filtering through my requests!! I hope you enjoy 😘

Warnings: Injury, Fluff, Comfort,

Fem!Reader

Chris was always an interesting one, he was quiet kept to himself nowadays unless he was with you. You bought some sense of comfort he seemed to lack in his life, you office was warm and welcoming. It was probably to do with the heater you kept by your feet under the desk. Always claiming that base was cold despite the numerous other layers that covered you. You were sweet - something stable consistent and most of all trustworthy. In the chaotic life he has always lived it was something that he craved and wished he could have.

You smiled at him sweetly as he entered the door, a bloodied bandage on one arm and the other carrying the usual apology coffee. "What have you done now?" You smiled at him guestering with a hand wave for him to sit next on the bed. He watched as you gathered the usual supplies, lining them up neatly on the tray next to the bed. The wound wasn't bad, just a stray bullet from a rookie who got spooked in a rocky situation. The usual but it could have been worse, the new wasn't his old one and never will be. China was a mess, the loss piled up too high for him.

Nothing could replace the team he lost, Piers and the others leaving a gap in his life he wasn't sure he could fill. "Just a stray bullet, nothing serious" he said. You lifted up the shirt, trying desperately to keep your cool as the gloves fingers examined the wound. Chris was attractive, there was no point in denying it. His smile and gruff voice was enough to make your brain go to mush. He was respectful unlike the other soldiers you had to deal. Chris never flirted, never pressed you with personal questions; it wasn't even until a few weeks ago that he started to talk to.

"Did the mission go alright though?" You asked him, you fingers barely wrapped around his arm as you held it still. Carefully swiping the disinfectant over it earning a few grumbled hisses from him. "It went as good as it could I guess, nothing terrible happened" He grumbled watching you carefully. You nodded, smiling briefly at him before moving to place the butterfly strips. "I tell you what went wrong"

Chris only raised an eyebrow, "Yeah?"

"A stray bullet damaged this gorgeous bicep. Which ever did it Rookie should be punished" You smiled so innocently after admitting it, keeping your features neutral to hide the growing embarrassment that wanted to seep its way out. Chris however was taken aback, a laugh threatened to bubble its way. His broody exeritor finally crumbling after what felt like years. You were always so sweet and kind a flirty gesture like that wasn't something he expected from you. "I'm glad that you think they are nice enough for a scrap to be that damaging" He chuckled.

His hand was warm when it landed on your wrist, his eyes scanning for something you didn't quite know. There wasn't any hesitation from you when he leaned forward, finally caving and giving himself something. Ignoring the fears deep inside that if you got close enough he might lose you like he lost everyone else. "Can I?"

The words ghosted over your lips, the smell of his latest cigarette and bitter coffee filled your senses. You nodded, entwining your fingers with his before finally closing the gaps. He was more passionate than you thought, like you could feel all his unspoken feelings. You made sure to match his pace, the exchange of love becoming messy as you grew heated. It wasn't until his phone chimed in that you stopped, the vibrations of the call interrupting the moment. You both knew what it meant, who it was. Duty always called for Chris. Moments alone would be far and few between. Yet, despite that you still couldn't resist and that's what he needed. Craved for in a relationships. Someone that understood the responsibilities he had gained over his hardened years.

Some to trust that not even a stray bullet would prevent him from crawling back to you.

"You owe me a coffee date when you back...one that doesn't involve butterfly strips and disinfectant"

Chris only smiled and nodded, the softer interior being hidden as he opened the door to head out again. That side only on reserves for you. "I'm sure you'll hold me to it when I get back"

It was only when he left you let out a giggle, fingers ghosting over your lips as if you could still feel his. Chris however instructed his team kindly, patting the nervous Rookie on the back as they all boarded on the heli. "Come on guys let's do this quick today...I've got a date"

[no2ticonderoga]

So, you make New Year's resolutions and say this year, I finish XYZ. Then, like two weeks later, you get a new idea and it completely derails you.

I don't know what if anything I'm going to do with this new brain worm that I've developed, so, in the spirit of sharing new AUs that seems to be going around, I'm going to inflict this on share this with you.

--

Fall 1942

“C’mon!” Piper pulled at Annabeth’s arm. “Let’s go!”

Annabeth sighed and let herself be dragged across the street toward the cacophony of the USO dance hall. Swing music blared out the doors, audible over the roar of the packed crowd. 

“Piper!” Annabeth complained. Damn these shoes…she thought. She’d never liked this particular pair of heels but Piper had insisted because they matched her blue dress. “Slow down, I’m going to…” She tripped. “Oh sh…” She fell directly into something tall, and blue with gold buttons. “Oof!”

“Well, that wasn’t very lady-like,” a laughing voice said. “Are you all right, Miss?” 

Annabeth looked up at her erstwhile rescuer, his mouth quirked up at the corners, and green eyes sparkling, black hair falling over his forehead in a way that was barely regulation. “I’m sorry,” she said automatically.

“No, it’s fine,” he said. ��I’m not used to women throwing themselves at me though.”

Piper backtracked to her. “Are you okay?” she asked.

“Fine,” Annabeth replied, absently, staring at the stranger. A navy officer…an ensign, according to his insignia. His hat was askew, probably knocked that way when she crashed into him. He didn’t look much older than she was. He was handsome, and he was staring at her oddly, and Annabeth blushed. 

Piper glanced between them. “Hi!” she said brightly. “I’m Piper, this is Annabeth,” she said. 

The ensign gave her a quick grin before returning his eyes to Annabeth. “A pleasure to meet you, Miss…?” he held out his hand. 

“Chase,” She said. “But, yes, I’m Annabeth.”

“I’m pleased to meet you, Annabeth Chase,” he said, taking her hand. “I’m Percy Jackson.”

“Nice to meet you,” Annabeth replied.

“Great!” Piper said brightly. “I’ll just leave you two then! Annabeth, don’t stay out all night!” Piper declared.

“Piper!” Annabeth protested, the spell broken at the realization that her friend was ruthlessly abandoning her. “What, no, wait!” But all Annabeth saw was the swirl of Piper’s retreating white and pink polka dotted party dress as she disappeared into the mob around the entrance. She turned helplessly back to Percy.

He was watching her, a faint smile on his face, but his eyes were laughing. “So, are you free this evening, Miss Annabeth Chase?” he asked. 

“I…uh,” she said. “I guess so,” she said, suddenly feeling very exposed. She felt her cheeks warm, and she broke the eye contact, ducking her head and tucking a stray curl behind her ear. 

“Well, are you really here for the dancing, or would you care to accompany me on a whirlwind tour of my favorite places in New York before I leave tomorrow?” he asked.

She looked up. “You’re leaving tomorrow?” 

“I’m afraid so,” he said. “Can’t say where, of course,” he added. “Mum’s the word and all that. But I’ve just realized that I’d much rather visit my city instead of try and squeeze myself into that mob.” He gestured to the dance hall, and then offered her his arm.

“I…” she took his arm automatically. “I don’t think I can walk all over the city in these shoes,” she said.

“Well, we’ll have to fix that,” Percy said, as he led her away from the Dance Hall.”

The next thing Annabeth knew, Percy was leading her through Macy’s to women’s shoes. 

“I don’t have money to buy shoes,” Annabeth protested.

“Don’t worry about it,” Percy assured her. “I’ve got it. I’m not going to need much cash where I’m headed.” 

“But!”

“Just trust me,” Percy said with a smile. 

“What do I do with these?” she asked, gesturing at her heels.

“I’ll carry them,” Percy offered. “I don’t mind.”

“You can’t carry them all night!” she protested.

“Then we’ll find a bus station locker and tuck them away safely,” he shrugged. “They’ll be fine.” 

Annabeth felt like she was losing control as Percy directed her to find a pair of low walking shoes, and then paid the tab. “So,” he said as they hit the street again. “Where to first?”

“Isn’t this your night?” she asked. 

“I’ve lived here all my life,” he said. “You don’t sound like you’re from around here, so you tell me, what haven’t you seen yet?” 

“I’m from Boston,” Annabeth said. “But I’ve been here three years…you could still tell?” she asked, they turned down the street.

“I can always tell,” he said, a bit smugly. “How about we start with some cheesecake from Lindy’s, and we can talk about our plan while we eat?”

And talk they did…over the cheesecake. While they strolled through Central Park. When they went to the Battery to look out at Lady Liberty, still just visible in the twilight of the evening. They talked, and they laughed, and throughout the night Annabeth found herself pressing closer and closer to him as they strolled…first arm in arm, but as the evening went on, with his arm around her shoulders. 

She felt like she was in some kind of mad dream. She had to keep reminding herself that this was it.This was all it could be. He was leaving tomorrow for who knew what. 

She told him about her studies at school, and her life in the dorms with Piper. She even shared her dream of finishing her degree (“Oh, a wise girl, I see”) and getting a job as an architect. He told her about growing up in the city, and his love of the sea, which led him to join the Navy. 

“So what do you do in the navy?” she asked, as they walked close together along Fifth Avenue. 

“I’m in minesweeping,” he said, a note of pride in his voice.

Annabeth felt herself give a shiver and was suddenly irrationally scared for him. “Isn’t that really, really dangerous?” she asked.

She felt his shrug. “It’s a job,” he said. “Volunteers only, you know.”

“You volunteered for it?” she said. “You must have seaweed for brains.” 

He laughed. “Maybe I do. But it’s a job that needs doing.”

“I hope you don’t get yourself blown up,” she commented. 

He glanced down at her. “You sound worried.”

“Well, I mean,” Annabeth replied, getting a little flustered. “I just…you…” she spluttered.

“It’s okay Wise Girl, I know your secret. I’ve got one too, so it’s all even stevens,” he said. 

“What secret is that?” she asked, her heart hammering.

“I think I’ll tell you later. How’d you like to go up to the top of the Empire State Building with me? The observation deck should still be open, and I want to see the skyline, one more time.”

“Isn’t it getting late?” she asked. She wasn’t wearing her watch with her party dress. 

“Just before 11,” he replied. “I have to be back by midnight.”

“Me too,” she said. “We have a dorm curfew.” 

“Then we’d better hurry,” he replied. 

They made it there just after 11. It was busy, with lots of servicemen and their girls. Annabeth felt very odd and strange, and out of place. Was this really happening to her? 

They stood and looked down Manhattan toward the harbor. Here and there a light blinked despite the blackout…a door opening on a ship, a porthole briefly open. One of those ships would take Percy away tomorrow. She was standing in front of him, his hands were resting lightly on her hips as they looked out over the dim city. New York didn’t have a true blackout…but the lights were dimmed on all the streets, and no lights were permitted in the upper stories, to prevent the city from silhouetting ships in the harbor. 

“So,” Percy said his voice right next to her ear. “I suppose I should have asked earlier. But is there anyone in your life?” 

“Like…a man?” she replied, voice shaking a bit.

“Yeah, like a man,” he said.

“N..No,” she answered. “I’ve never…I mean…I’m not.” She was starting to babble.

“Shhh,” Percy soothed her. “It’s okay.”

Annabeth had never felt anything like the way she felt. Her stomach felt like it was doing continuous somersaults, and her legs were like jelly. This couldn’t be happening to her. Not like this. But she had to face it. “What…what about you?” she bravely asked in return.

“Nah,” he said. “Never any time.” 

“Oh,” she said in a small voice. 

They were silent another moment. “So what was that secret you think I have?” Annabeth said finally.

“Oh, that?” Percy chuckled. “That’s easy.” He leaned down and whispered in her ear. “You like me.”

She turned in his arms and was facing him. “I do?” she asked, trying for challenging, but her heart was hammering so hard, she was sure it came out more like a plea. 

“Yeah, Wise Girl. But that’s okay,” he said, and he reached a hand up to brush her cheek. She felt her pulse jump in her throat as he did so. “Because I like you too.”

And then he leaned in and kissed her. Annabeth had never been kissed before, and she was absolutely lost in the taste of his lips, the smell of his aftershave, the sharp smell of his freshly issued uniform jacket. She put her arms around his neck, and his hands tightened on her waist, drawing her closer to him. 

Annabeth couldn’t have told anyone how long they stood there, wrapped in each other’s arms, but she knew she was breathless when they broke apart. 

“Wow,” Percy breathed, eyes wide, looking as shocked as she felt. 

It made Annabeth laugh a little, tension flowing out of her. Some part of her had worried that she was being played by some kind of Don Juan, an experienced seducer. But the wildness around his eyes couldn’t be faked.  “Wow,” she agreed.

“Annabeth, I…” Percy licked his lips. “Can I write to you?” 

“Yes,” Annabeth said. “I would love that.”

“I’ll write you once I get where I’m going,” he promised. “So you can write back.” 

“Okay,” she breathed, and then she kissed him again.

Eventually, they had to go…Percy insisted on walking her back to her dorm, even though his consequences for being late were bound to be worse than his own. 

Annabeth felt tears pricking her eyes as she kissed him one last time on the sidewalk. “Goodbye, Percy,” she said, when they broke apart. 

“See you soon, Wise Girl,” Percy said, reluctantly releasing her hand. 

“Stay safe, Seaweed Brain,” she told him. 

He gave her that lopsided grin that made her heart flip. “I’ll be fine. You wait here, I’ll be back before you know it.”

“I’ll hold you to that.”

“It’s a deal,” he said. 

He turned and started down the street. Annabeth stood on the steps of the dormitory and watched him go. He turned the corner.

It was the last time she saw him.

[gummydummy19]

Month seven (November): shower me with love

Summary: You do your friend a favour and drag Sy with you to go house-sitting (more like mansion-sitting, but whatevs)

A/N: Oh my god I'm excited for this one... I know this literally took me a million years (apologies AGAIN). I have missed these two like crazy, so without further ago, get cozy and happy reading <3

Word Count: 4k+

(this is part seven of my series: A year in apartment 6B)

The days had been shortening, slowly but surely getting gloomier. Most people hated it. The cold and the darkness. Wet pavement, foggy windows, rosy cheeks, and leaky noses.

You found it charming. It made you appreciate the coziness of your home even more. the home you'd been living in for almost seven months now.

While the rain tapped against the floor-to-ceiling windows of your office, you found yourself thinking of that very home. You couldn't wait to finish work and rush back to your apartment, curling up on your couch with yet another sappy romance novel.

"Can I ask you a favor?" your thoughts were interrupted by Elizabeth, your chaotic but very sweet work bestie. You met her during your first week at the office. She found you cursing yourself in the copy room trying to figure out how the printer worked you guys had stuck together ever since. It was nice to have someone to have lunch with and fill you in on office gossip.

"What now Liz?", you sighed jokingly.

She looked around to see if anyone was listening before whispering "Break room, now." and walking off. You quickly got up and followed her, wondering what this was about.

"Clark's assistant asked me to housesit for him while he's on his business trip next weekend."

Clark was our boss. Handsome guy, tall, rich, and always in a freshly pressed suit. He wasn't really your type, but according to Liz he always smelled delicious. Of course, she would know, she had been secretly seeing him for over a month now. It was all very exciting.

"Okay?..." you questioned, not really understanding what the problem was.

"It's the Paris trip..."

Right.

Office romance was very exciting indeed, but also very forbidden, and even though Clark was our boss, he wasn't the boss of the company.

Of course, he asked her to come to Paris with him. You knew it was hard for them to keep away from each other, it was truly adorable to see them try though. No one would have to know. It would be their perfect weekend away.

Except that now his assistant had asked Liz to housesit for him, just to feed his cats and water his plants, and she had no good reason to say no so she didn't. Which then brought her here, in the break room, begging you to cover for her.

'Why didn't you just say no?' you asked

'I panicked! I didn't want him to suspect anything so I just went along with it. Could you please do it for me? Please?'

You wanted to help her. You really did, but the thought of leaving Sy alone for an entire weekend when he still wasn't fully healed made your stomach twist

"Oh Liz...I don't...I mean...Sy is still not..."

"You can take him with you!" she quickly spat, "Think of it as a little weekend away together. Doesn't that sound fun?"

'We're not a couple, Liz!" you blushed

"Oh please you're basically married." she shushed, "Come on, you don't have to stay all weekend just check his mail, water his plants and feed his cats, that's all! Besides, his house is gorgeous, and it has an indoor pool! Didn't the doctor say swimming was good exercise?"

"I guess he did yeah..." you mumbled, "ugh, fine! But you owe me!"

"oh, you're the best!" she squealed, jumping up and down before giving you a bone-crushing hug.

"You better bring me back some ridiculously expensive gift" you joked as you tried to contain your own smile, secretly excited about your weekend with Sy.

_______________________________________________________

'So we have to spend the weekend in some rich snob's house because he wants to fuck his employee overseas?"

"Hey! She's my friend and they are in love!" you shot back

"Oh, I'm sure they are..." he mumbled, rolling his eyes, "I would be too if I got free trips to Paris"

"Don't be such a grump, Sy"

"What about Aika? We can't just leave her all weekend?"

"Your mom is picking her up this afternoon." you simply said

"My mo-...You spoke to my mother?"

"Yeah, she's been asking to see Aika for weeks! She sends her love by the way."

Sy silently thanked the lord for making this a regular phone call and not one of those Facetime situations because he wasn't in the mood to explain why his cheeks grew red at the thought of you being friendly with his mom.

"Right..." he grumbled.

"So you're in then? The doctor did say you needed exercise, Sy. You can't just stay cooped up in the apartment. It'll be fun!" you tried to convince him.

"Alright alright, fine, I'm in"

"Yay! Pack a weekend bag, I'll pick you up after work." you told him, "Oh, and don't forget your swim shorts!"

"My what?!" Sy asked, but you had already hung up the phone, leaving him in regret already

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

"Holy fucking shit"

Sy's deep voice boomed through the desolate entrance hallway of the Kent Residence.

"Normally I'd tell you to watch your mouth but...damn," you added, staring at the crystal chandelier hanging from the exceptionally high ceiling.

"Hey, check this out!" Sy called from the living room.

You were so wrapped up in your surroundings, that you hadn't even noticed he wasn't standing next to you anymore.

"May I please remind you that this is my boss's place? You can't just go around and touch every- HOLY FUCK THAT'S BIG"

You found Sy with a remote in his hand, standing in front of what was probably the biggest television you had ever seen in your entire life. I mean, it genuinely bordered on a home cinema. It was ginormous.

"You know Sugar, usually when I hear a woman say something like it it's not about a TV," he grinned, making you blush before you hit him with a pillow, hoping he wouldn't notice.

"You're an idiot," you claimed, trying not to laugh but miserably failing.

"You love it," he grinned again, making you roll your eyes.

"Whatever Syverson, I'm gonna go check out the rooms."

"Hold on, I'm coming with you before you snatch the best one."

Sy was hot on your heels as you rounded the corner. His massive chest colliding with your back when you came to a sudden stop.

“Holy. Shit.”

You stared in awe at what was the most gorgeous indoor pool you had ever seen in your entire life (well in all honesty, it was the only indoor pool you had ever seen in real life)

There were floor to ceiling windows and rows of luxurious pool chairs on each side.

“Damn, does this guy crap money?”

Sy’s rough baritone snapped you out of your astonishment, earning him yet another (playful) eye-roll

You and Sy snooped wandered around the mansion for good 20 minutes before you even got to the upstairs area. There was a long hallway leading up to beautiful French doors.

"That's probably the master bedroom, right?", you questioned, motioning towards the doors.

"Probably", he mumbled, "let's go check it out."

"No wait! We shouldn't...", you grabbed his arm, "It's not nice to snoop."

"Oh please, what have we been doing for the past half hour?", he chuckled, "Won't hurt to look, right?"

"Alright fine...just in and out, no unnecessary touching."

"Funny, that's exactly what my last hook-up said."

Sy whistled behind you as the bedroom was revealed.

"Sweet baby Jesus...." you mumbled, eyes wide as you took in the gorgeous interior.

Everything looked luxurious and expensive. Panel pair curtains matched the shades of the bedsheets and the accent wall. There were fresh flowers on what looked like a pure sandalwood dresser with golden details. Everything was perfect.

"I call dibs," Sy announced, making you snap your head at him.

"Like hell! I'm the one who got us here,"

"Correction, you are the one who forced us to come here, so it would only be fair if I got the master bedroom. As a reward for coming with you," he explained, crossing his arms.

"You're joking, right? What happened to 'Don't ya worry Sugah, I'm a real Southern gentleman!'" you imitated in a thick Southern accent.

"Hey, I do not sound like that!" he pointed his finger at you and you couldn't help but giggle.

"Settle down, cowboy. I'll check the other rooms." The truth is, yeah, that master bedroom was gorgeous, but you cared about Sy and he was still hurt, so if he wanted the master bedroom, you'd gladly let him have it.

You marched toward the closest room, ready to be stunned again. But when you tried the door, you couldn't get it open. You tried the handle again, rumbling the door a little.

"Locked?" Sy questioned.

"Maybe it's a home office, there might be private papers and stuff."

"Or a sex dungeon,"

"You are sick, Syverson. Really fucking sick."

He chuckled at that and you quickly turned around again, partly to try the next door, partly to hide the smile he had managed to put on your face.

"What the...it's locked again. Could you try that one?"

You and Sy tried every single door that could possibly be a bedroom, only to find them all locked. It was getting kinda ridiculous at this point, so you decided to text Liz.

"Sneaky bitch..." you mumbled as you stared at your phone screen.

"So?" Sy asked, "what did she say?"

"She uhm,...the key isn't here, he forgot."

"He forgot?" he frowned

"Apparently..." you looked around awkwardly.

Liz was so fucking dead when she got back from her stupid Paris trip.

“Guess we’re bunking together then, roomie” Sy grinned, but when he saw you awkwardly shuffling around and stare at your feet instead of grinning back at him, he nudged your shoulder “hey, I’m kidding, I can sleep on one of the pool chairs or something it’ll be fine”

“Sy, don’t be ridiculous I’m not letting you sleep on a pool chair”

“What? I’ve slept on worse, come to think of it, its kinda look our cots back on base, it’ll feel just like home”

“Base is home?” You said it without even thinking, the words tumbled over your lips before you could stop them and you couldn’t help but pair them with a slightly saddened expression.

“I didn’t mean it like that…”

“I mean I kinda get that, I can imagine it grows on you”, you felt like you were treading dangerous territory, but so was he. He knew you worked so hard to make your place a home, he truly didn’t mean to-

“Wanna go for a swim?” You interrupted his thought spiral

“I’d love to”

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

You dipped your toes in the water, finding it perfectly heated.

You had gotten changed first, covering yourself in your fluffy bathrobe before heading for the pool and waiting for Sy there, while impatiently checking the temperature.

"How is it?"

Once again the deep bass of Sy's voice pulled you back to the present.

"It's perfect. I'm not surprised, to be honest, he probably has some fancy heating syste-euhm...", your voice trailed off when you saw Sy's beautifully beefy chest. His baggy swim trunks hung low on his hips and the hair from his chest trailed down all the way to-

"Sugar?"

"P-perfect", you babbled, "UH- the water! It's perfect...nice and warm"

He threw his signature grin your way and you swore you felt your knees buckle. That grin was almost too much to handle on a regular day. The grin + him shirtless + THE SNAIL TRAIL???? Yeah you didn't stand a chance.

"You gonna swim with the robe on, Sugar?"

"Jeez, Captain if you wanted me to strip that bad all you had to do was ask"

Alright, you may have sounded confident, but this was all fake it till you make it.

Sy jumped in the water to hide his grin, nearly splashing you in the process.

You threw your robe on one of the pool chairs and your eyes found his right as he resurfaced. He took you in, you could tell. For a second you had the urge to cover yourself up, hiding the parts your black bikini failed to cover, but you opted against it, desperately trying to keep the confident act up.

It was quiet for a second or two while you just looked at each other.

"Perfect...", his voice was barely above a whisper, "The uh..., the water. You were right, the temperature is perfect."

You couldn't help but smile as you realized he was just as nervous as you were. Finally, you fully got in the pool too, relaxing a bit as the warm water surrounded you.

"I could get used to this", you sighed.

"We could put a kiddy pool in our living room If that makes ya feel better?"

You snorted at that, "Yeah, and then have Aika jump in and our entire place smelling like wet dog? No thanks, that kinda takes away the whole relaxing aspect in my opinion"

"Oh alright, Miss Fancy", he splashed some water your way.

"Fuck SY! I wasn't gonna wet my hair!" you shrieked.

"What kinda bullshit is that? Why would you get in the pool if you didn't wanna wet your hair?", his eyebrows furrowed, "too late now anyway, Sugar" he chuckled, splashing you again, right in your eyes this time.

"Ah, shit!" your hands flew to your face as you frantically rubbed your eyes as you turned away from him to shield yourself.

"Shit! Sorry, Sugar, u okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine you fucking idiot", realization didn't hit you until you saw the black streaks on your palms, "Fuck, I was wearing makeup", you mumbled.

Alright. You knew it was ridiculous, wearing makeup to the pool. But it wasn't a lot or anything, just some mascara and a little bit of concealer here and there. You weren't even planning on it, honest to god. But when you thought about Sy seeing you in a bikini for the first time you couldn't help but feel a bit insecure, so you needed something to bump your confidence, just a little bit.

You should have known boys will always be boys. And there's no keeping it dry when Sy is around anyway.

"Sugar? You can turn back around now, I promise no more splashing",

Ugh fuck fuck fuck...You still had your back to him. You couldn't turn around now, you probably looked like a panda. And you didn't want him to know you wore makeup to the pool, he would never stop laughing at you.

"I uh...I think I'm gonna get out...I'm getting kinda cold", you tried to keep your face away from him as you made your way to the ladder, but as per usual, he was too quick for you.

"What? The pool is heated, besides, I can keep ya warm. I swear I'm sorry Sugar, c'mon don't leave?", you felt his big hands circle your waist under the water, pulling your floating body closer to him in a matter of seconds. Your back hit his warm fuzzy chest and you stiffled a moan.

Okay, he wasn't gonna let you leave, new plan...

You desperately wiped under your eyes, hoping to god he wouldn't see.

"Wh-are you...are you crying?", he sounded genuinely concerned, "Did I hurt you? I didn't mean to Sugar I promise, lemme see", he carefully turned you around in his arms

"No no, Sy you didn't hurt me, I'm not crying I just..." your eyes met his and for a second he looked even more confused, "Why do you look like Batman?", he grinned.

"Ugghhhh..." you groaned in embarrassment, "I just...I just tried out a new mascara this morning and I forgot I had it on...I have makeup wiped in my bag upstairs just lemme go take it off", you rambled trying to get out of his grip but he didn't budge.

"Oh, don't be ridiculous, Sugar, just do that later."

"Sy, I'm not being ridiculous I LOOK ridiculous, just let me go fix it I'll be back in a minute."

You tried leaving again, but this time his big paws grabbed you by the face, gently but still firm.

"You don't look ridiculous, Sugar...C'mere..."

For a second you thought he was going to kiss you and your eyes fell shut, but instead, you felt his thumbs wipe away the dark streaks.

"There ya go...all better", he smirked. "No more Batman."

"Ugh, shut up", now it was your turn to splash him.

"Oh don't start what you can't finish, dear." his devilish smirk was enough to make you squeal as you backed up.

"No, Sy come on! My hair!", you swam as fast as you could, and just when you thought you could get away, you felt a hand wrap around your ankle.

"Oh no ya don't", he pulled you back to him within seconds, and just like that...your hair wasn't the only thing getting wet against your will...

"I think your face could use another wash," was all he said before pushing your shoulders down under the water, you came back up immediately gasping for air.

"I can't believe you did that!" you sputtered as he just stood there laughing. You didn't even think before jumping on his back, trying to push him down. Looking back that may have been a dumb idea because the captain didn't budge. If anything, it just made him laugh harder. "Aww, isn't that cute? Well, Sugar if I'm going down, I'm taking you with me..."

"No, Sy", you felt his arms tighten around your legs, "no no no no no n-" he dove underwater, keeping his promise and indeed taking you with him.

"T-truce" you breathed out the second you got up for air, "truce truce truce!", you were out of breath, probably looking like a drowned panda bear and the chlorine mixed with your leftover mascara was stinging in your eyes, "fucking hell, this was not as relaxing as I had in mind", you muttered to yourself.

Sy chuckled, obviously he was looking handsome as ever while you felt like you looked like you were just spit out by something.

"C'mere...truce accepted," he gently pulled you against him again, his fingertips trailing down your sides to your thighs, 'up', he commanded and you unsurely wrapped your legs around his waist, letting him guide you. "there ya go, good girl."

You felt your cheeks heat up and told yourself it was just from his body heat.

You wrapped your arms around his shoulders and snuggled into the crook of his neck while he slowly floated the both of you through the warm water. A wave of exhaustion suddenly came over you. You were too tired and comfortable to overthink what exactly was happening.

_____________________________________________________________

"Hey Sugar..."

"Hmmm?"

"I really think we should get out now..."

It took you a while to realize you were still in the pool, still in Sy's arms.

"Hm fuck...did I...did I fall asleep?"

"Only a little"

"How long was I out?"

"A good 20 minutes, never seen ya shut up for that long, had to check if you were still breathing"

You wanted to make a snarky comment but all you could muster was a grin before finally peeling yourself off of him and getting out of the water.

"Im starving," Sy said as he reached for his towel.

"Yeah, me too. Do you wanna order pizza? I'm too scared to touch anything in that kitchen"

"Sounds good, probably for the best anyway, don't need ya setting the place on fire"

You threw one of your towels at his face, "Shut it, Syverson. I'm showering first and if I were you i'd be nice to me cause I won't hesitate to use up all the hot water."

"S'fine, Sugar. I'm a military man. Nothing I can't handle", he grinned and watched you turn around with a smirk on your face.

"I could probably do with a cold shower anyway..." he muttered to himself as he watched you walk away, thanking all that was good and pure for not letting you notice the massive hard-on he was hiding while you were snoozing in his arms.

"You order, I shower", you yelled back, "I'll take pepperoni, Cap!"

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

45 minutes later you and Sy sat on the massive suede couch, freshly showered, clad in fluffy white bathrobes, and munching on pizza.

"That's such bullshit!" you laughed

"Is not! I swear to you, Sugar! He just stood there in nothing but a thong. Traumatized the entire squad."

"Where the hell did he get a thong in the middle of the desert?!"

"Fuck do I know?! He musta brought it with him?"

You were dying laughing, like actually proper laughing. Tears nearly in your eyes, face red hot, snorting out laughing.

"Sy, there is no way one of your men walked around on base in the middle of the night in nothing but a thong."

"Sugar, I swear to ya, I'm a lot'a things, but a liar ain't one of 'em."

"So what did you do?"

"Sent the fucker home."

"Maybe that was his plan all along? Maybe he just wanted to get sent home?"

"Maybe, Sugar. Maybe." he took another swig of his beer as you chomped down the last bite of your pizza and a comfortable silence settled over you.

"I think I should probably head to bed, I'm exhausted."

"Yeah, me too", he agreed, "I'll just take some things out'a the room and then I'll be good to sleep here."

"Sy, please, don't be silly", you argued, "I was drooling on your shoulder barely an hour ago, I'm sure we can share a bed for one night."

He chuckled at that, "Alright I guess you got a point there, but only if you're sure."

"Yeah, I'm sure genius, but no funny business", you pointed your finger at him.

"Yes ma'am, Roger that", he smirked.

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

You stared at yourself in the bathroom mirror.

Skincare done, teeth brushed, hair blow dried, perfume sprayed, pajamas on.

Alright, okay. There's only so much you can do to get ready for bed.

"You're gonna have to go out there sooner or later" you spoke softly to your own reflection.

Jesus Christ this was ridiculous. This was YOUR idea. It's just sleeping. You did it before. Earlier tonight, in fact. Just get out there, get in the bed, close your eyes, and go to sleep. Nothing special.

Maybe that was the problem. Maybe you wanted it to be special. What if he didn't? Oh god, what if he DID?

You took a deep breath and finally opened the door.

"Sorry I took so long, I couldn't find my night cre-...Sy?"

There he was. Bulging shoulders on full display, the muscles on his back moving with each breath, the waistband of his boxers peeking out just above where the sheets covered his butt.

His bearded face snuggled into his pillow, his large arms curling underneath it.

You couldn't help but smile as you looked down at him. The true definition of a gentle giant. It was beyond you how someone could look so fucking sexy and so fucking cute at the same time.

You finally crawled into bed next to him, careful not to wake him up. But as you turned over on your side to turn your nightlight off, you suddenly his beefy arm snaked its way around you and pulled you close to him.

You barely managed to flip the switch before feeling his warm chest against your back again. His beard tickled the back of your neck a little making you grin, soft snores telling you he was still fast asleep..

It felt so good, so safe, so warm, so comfortable...you dozed off with a smile on your face, and not a care in the world...

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[minispidey]

01: Barbie and the Giftshopist.

Steven Grant x f!bimbo!reader. series masterlist. next part.

01. This Barbie is his new neighbor!

warnings: uses y/n once, get ready for kinda cringey bimbor!reader. over-use of the word like. extremely feminine reader. reference to elle woods. NOT BETA READ.

"Yeah, but like, I totes believe her. I mean she's totes being framed. I wanna help her." as Steven got off of the lift, he sees multiple boxes out in the hallway and hears a woman's voice talking to someone.

You walk out of the flat in front of his to push in the rest of your things. You were wearing something someone moving in shouldn't be wearing: a pink lace top, flared pink pants and cute high heels. You had a purse and everything.

"I need an alibi from her. Like, she can't just like go to jail for something she didn't do. That's a crime itself." you held your phone in between your shoulder and ear "I'm totally bugging. Where's a good manipedi here?"

"Uh, I think there's a salon across from the baker around the corner?" Steven spoke up from behind you.

You turn to face him, blinking twice "I'll call you back. I'll see you at the office." you end your call and smiled at him "Thanks so much. My nails have suffered too much this past week. Oh, we're neighbors!"

"It seems like we are."

"I'm Y/N. It's so nice to meet you." you two shake hands "I'm like, really struggling with these boxes. And I know I'd be like super desperate, but I am, but can you help me, please?" you smiled brightly, even batting your long eyelashes.

"Oh, uh, yes, absolutely." he said, taking a couple of the boxes from the hallway.

You kept kicking some of the boxes in with your pink high heels, clearly impatient and trying to push them all in. Steven halts your actions by picking them up and setting them down inside.

"You gotta uh, carry the boxes inside. They get stuck when you just push them." entering your flat, he placed more boxes down. He could see your walls were already painted a different color: pink. Steven was surprised to see such a bold choice of color, but he could already tell by your outfit what kind of woman you were.

A woman with great fashion-sense.

You were beautiful. Something about you was just so alluring, so hypnotic. He couldn't even believe a beautiful woman like you was talking to him, let alone letting him enter your flat. But he did notice you were a bit of a ditz.

"Do you need any help with anything else?" Steven asked, turning around as he spoke. His ears were slightly red because of the way you looked at him.

"That's all. Thanks so much." you smiled "I just moved here, and like, still adjusting."

"It's not a problem at all. If you need anything, don't be shy. I'm just in front."

"That's so nice of you! Totes, I'd definitely need some help. Oh shoot, I never got your name."

"It's fine. I-It's Steven."

"It's so nice to meet you, Steven."

His eyes shifted to the racks filled with clothes. Pink, to be exact. You were extremely feminine. He spots furs and his brows furrow a bit "Er... uh..."

"They're faux fur. Can't tell the difference anymore." you giggled, wheeling them to a corner with the rest of your clothes.

"Oh. Well, they're very nice." Steven smiled "Are you a model?"

"Gosh, that's such a compliment. No one's ever said that before. But no, just love clothes. How about you? Wait wait! Let me guess..."

Steven found it adorable as you squint your eyes, thinking of what his job is.

"Are you like... a sculptor? No, a painter! Am I close?"

"I work at a gift-shop, actually. A giftshopist." he smiled.

"No way. You have really pretty hands, you could be like a hand model. Or like I said, a painter."

Steven blushed like a mad man "Thank you. No one's ever complimented my hands."

"You're pretty handsome, you know? It's like... gosh you have a nice nose too." the way you complimented him was as if he was a sculpture.

Steven's heart almost stopped when you casually mentioned how handsome he was. You were incredibly blunt about it for someone he had just met.

"Thank you." he said, his cheeks turning a shade of pink. Something about you saying it that make his body feel all warm. It's such a strange and unusual feeling for him.

"No, but like seriously. You are so handsome. It's like driving me a bit cray, you get it, right? Gosh, I sound like a total creep."

Hearing the same thing two times in a row sent him into quite a little flutter. He had never been one to be flirted with and the combination of how direct you were, plus how much you were repeating yourself certainly made him feel something.

"No, it's fine. No, you don't sound like creep, it's totally fine." he looks back up at you "I'm just... I'm not used to... it."

"Used to what? Being called handsome?"

"Yeah." Steven chuckled, the sound escaping his mouth in such a high pitched and nervous way that it sounded almost like a squeak "And uh, being flirted with..."

Your phone suddenly rings, making you two jump up. You take your phone out, looking at the caller ID "So sorry. I gotta take this."

"Oh, no worries." he clears his throat, taking the opportunity to collect his thoughts and calm his racing heart and mind.

"I, uh, I should go now." he says "I'll see you around, luv."

"I'll see you around, Steven." you gave him a smile before answering your phone, pacing back and fourth across your flat.

As Steven enters his flat, his heart calms down but his cheeks were still red. His eyes shifted towards a mirror, a clearly judging Marc staring right back at him.

"So. You like her?"

"Oh come on, Marc. I just met her."

That evening, Steven heard a knock outside his door. His ears were perked up as he approached the door, opening it to find you in your cute animal print night dress and holding a casserole dish "Okay, so like, I got called in to the office earlier and I never got to properly thank you."

"It's not big deal, luv." he blushed "They're just boxes."

"And really heavy ones. You are like, super strong. Plus I finally got my manipedi." you giggled "I made lasagna in the office but I got leftovers, do you wanna split?"

"Uh... actually I'm vegan."

"Oh gosh, I'm like so sorry. That explains the fur thing!"

"Yeah." he nods "It's alright, luv. I don't wear a big ol sign saying I'm vegan."

"Well... I was just hoping we could hangout because you seem like a really nice guy. I mostly bond with food."

"It's alright, uh..." Steven looks behind him, looking if his place was presentable "If you want, you can eat it here while we chat? Maybe a cup of tea? I've stepped inside your flat, might as well welcome you into mine."

"Really? That's so nice of you! I swear, when I get my stove and oven I'll make you something vegan."

"You really don't have to. I assure you, it's alright."

"Don't worry! I can cook."

Ever since that day, Steven is ecstatic to wake up everyday and greet you in the morning as you both went off to work.

Your clothes were always consistent with the pinks and whites, but you always looked professional as you head off to work.

Steven began to guess what your profession was. You said you weren't a model, perhaps a designer? A professor?

He snapped out of his thoughts when you placed a plate of fried tofu with some sauce over it and spring onions.

"Stevie, do you know where I could like, donate books? Mine are sooo expensive but someone might want to use them." you asked as you cleaned up your countertop.

"Yeah, why?"

"Okay so like, Jean, he's like a newbie, he totally bugged me. Brags that he loves to donate his stuff. He once donated a canoe. He says like he was a hoarder back then. I thought to myself, am I hoarding?" you spin, facing Steven "I totally am! I have books I won't need anymore and I don't have bookshelves anyways."

"I have spots in my bookcase. Maybe I could take them off your hands?" Steven looks up at you with a smile "I don't mind. They have sentimental value?"

"Very. Plus, they were soooo expensive I swear. I could've bought like fifteen more pairs of heels if I hadn't bought them. Or maybe just a pair of Choos."

"What kind of books are they exactly?"

"Law."

"Law?"

"Law." you clear your throat, lifting your arm and bending your wrist in a dramatic way "I'm a lawyer, obvi."

Steven was slightly taken aback by the news. He certainly wouldn't have guessed that right "You're a-a lawyer? Oh, wow, that's super impressive. Wait, how are you dressed the way you are if you're a lawyer? Don't they make you wear suits and stuff?"

"Duhh, I wear pink ones! You see me wear them to work every morning." you smiled "I have a lot."

Steven's truly never met a woman like you.

"You're incredible..."

[gingiesworld]

I Want You

Innocent Lizzie Olsen (20) x GN! Reader (28) GN! Reader x Ashley Olsen

Warnings : Smut. Reader has a penis. P in V. Unprotected sex. Loss of virginity. Infidelity.

18+ MINORS DNI

Main Masterlist

Y/N Y/L/N was known as Ashley Olsen's partner, the two had met when Y/N moved to New York to work. They studied Drama and Filmography ar college and became an off Broadway Director.

So naturally, Ashley pushed for them to meet their younger sister Lizzie. She had told them how Lizzie was studying to become an actress, and asked if she could tag along to a rehearsal.

Which of course, Y/N said yes. What they didn't expect was to actually fall for the younger Olsen girl. They were sat on Ashley's bed as she packed her bag.

"It's two weeks Ash." They groaned as she smiled.

"And it will fly by." She told them as she cupped their face. "Besides, Lizzie flies in at the weekend before the semester starts."

"But." Y/N pouted as Ashley smiled endearingly at them.

"Two weeks and then maybe we can look at a little get away for the two of us." She told them as they smiled softly.

"I would love that." They nodded before she kissed them softly.

"Come on Ash. Stop making out with Y/N and move it." MK called out to her.

"Just two weeks." Y/N confirmed as they stood up. Kissing her softly before the three of them left the apartment. Y/N watched as the taxi drove away with the twins. Two whole weeks without her. Nothing can go wrong right.

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

As the week passed, Y/N threw themselves into their latest play. Doing re-writes and screenplays. Making sure that everything was ready for opening night.

That was when Lizzie made her way to their office, a pizza in hand with a couple of cans of soda. She knocked on the doorframe which caught Y/N's attention as they were on the phone. They gestured for her to enter and close the door behind her as she quietly placed the pizza on their desk.

"We need it to be up and running before the 18th." They told them as they paced the room. "It's opening night. We can't push it back." She watched as they rubbed their brow. "Just get it done before the 18th." Lizzie observed their every move before speaking up.

"Is everything ok?" She asked them as they shrugged as they took a seat in their chair.

"It will be sorted before opening night hopefully." They told her with a smile. She sat before them as she opened the box and taking a slice. "So, how is school?"

"Seriously? How is school?" She smirked as they nodded.

"Yeah. I feel like we don't really talk much." They asked her as she smiled.

"It's ok I guess." She told them with a sad smile.

"What happened?" They questioned as she shook her head.

"It doesn't matter." She stated as they shook their head.

"It does, so talk to me." They spoke softly as they gazed at her. The intensity making her blush.

"It's just that Tim wants to take the next step." She told them as they nodded.

"And you're not ready." They stated as she nodded.

"With him? No." She told them as they watched her.

"So you just don't want to be with him?" They questioned her confused.

"I don't think so." She stood up as she paced the room. "I like him. I think he's cute but." She stopped her movements as she shook her head no.

"But what?" They asked her as they approached her.

"He doesn't make my heart beat fast like it's about to explode in my chest. He doesn't give me butterflies. He doesn't make me want to clench my thighs together whenever his hand rests on my thigh. He isn't you." She confessed as Y/N stepped back slightly.

"Me?" They asked her as she nodded. "I'm with Ashley. Your sister."

"I know this is so messed up." Lizzie stated as Y/N nodded. "But I know what I want." She stepped before them, cupping their face. "I want you." Before they could answer her lips were on theirs, he arms wrapped around their neck as she pulled them closer.

"We can't." They told her breathlessly. "I can't."

"I understand." She whispered. They could see a hint of pain in her eyes. "I'll see you later." She soon walked out of their office as Y/N sat down in their seat. Running their hands over their face as they groaned. Lizzie's words running wild on repeat in their mind. They had sat looking at the wall for the better part of an hour. Lizzie being the only thing on their mind. The feel of her lips on theirs, firing their want for her. So they made a decision to leave and head straight for her dorm. Knocking on the door abruptly.

"Y/N?" Lizzie questioned as she opened the door. Y/N cupped her cheek as they kissed her passionately. Pushing her inside and kicking the door shut. Lizzie gripped onto their shirt as their tongues danced together.

"Are you sure this is what you want?" They asked her as they brushed her hair out of her face.

"I am." She nodded with certainty. Y/N gripped her hips as they pulled her back into them, kissing her roughly as they guided her back into her bedroom. She fumbled with their shirt, slipping it off their shoulders before they lay her down on the bed, hovering above her. She gasped when she felt their hands under her shirt, on her skin. She helped them remove it along with her bra before they leaned back in and kissed her sensually. Their bodies molding together as one as the kiss went on.

When air became a problem, Y/N started to kiss and suck her neck as their hands made their way into her pants, under her underwear. She moaned when they applied pressure to her clit, bucking her hips for more. Their mouth soon found her nipple as they sucked on the hardened nub. Her moans sounded like the most beautiful melody they had ever heard.

Slipping a finger into her entrance, thrusting at a steady pace, leaning back to see her face as her mouth was agape and sweet moans left her mouth. Her hands, pushed her jeans and underwear down, with their help, she kicked them off with her feet. Y/N smirked when she instinctively opened her legs wider, giving them more access.

"Can I add another?" They asked her as she just nodded her head. Moaning loudly as she felt her walls tighten. She had only ever really touched herself with the thought of Y/N on her mind.

"I'm cumming." She screamed as she came, Y/N slowed down their movements as she calmed down. Lizzie watched as Y/N sucked their fingers clean with a moan. Pulling them down to kiss her roughly. She moaned at the bulge ribbing against her clit. Her hands moving to their jeans, undoing their belt and button.

"Are you sure you want this?" They asked her once more.

"100%." She told them as she pulled their pants and boxers down. "I want you." With that the two kissed softly as they ran their cock through her folds. Gathering her juices before they eased themselves inside of her.

"It's ok." Y/N whispered as they kissed her neck. "It will feel better soon." They reassured her as they slowly inserted themselves more, until they bottomed out.

"Is it supposed to feel painful?" She whispered as Y/N gave her a tender kiss.

"It is at first, but it will get better." They told her as they slowly thrusted, causing her to whimper softly. They kissed her once more as they continued. Hearing as Lizzie's whimpers turned into moans and sighs of pleasure.

"Ohh." She breathed out when they hit a certain spot inside of her. One that made her stomach tighten. They lifted her leg up, resting it on their shoulder as they went faster. Their hands massaged her breasts as she scratched down their back. The two of them moaning messes, Y/N was also embarrassingly close to the edge.

"Fuck." They grunted as they came, the sensation of their seed coating her walls causing her own orgasm. The two of them moaning and panting as they came down from their highs. When Y/N had calmed down, they brushed her hair from her face. Kissing her lips as her hands lazily wrapped around their shoulders. "You did amazing." Y/N told her.

"Stay." She whispered as they were about to move. "Stay like this?" They smiled before spinning them around softly, their cock still inside her as they wrapped their arms around her waist. "Do you regret it?" She asked the quietly.

"No." They answered confidently. "Do you?"

"It was everything I had ever dreamed of and more." She whispered, leaning up and kissing them softly before she nuzzled into their chest, falling asleep to the sound of their heartbeat.

[spinningwebsandtales]

Imagine Kafka Thinking You And Hoshina Are An Item

Kafka Hibino X FemReader

Rating: T

Warnings: Suggestive themes, teasing, mentions of wounds

Word Count: 2.3k

Requested by @burneracsposts

(A/N:) I've been so excited about writing this and it seemed like everything was getting in the way to keep me from writing. But it's a special day today and I think it's a perfect day to finally get this posted. Because it's Kafka's birthday and season 2 of Kaiju No. 8 was confirmed today for 2025! So I want to thank you again for your request and I hope it's everything you wanted and worth the wait! Until next time happy reading! ~Countess

It wasn't a secret around the Third Division base that you and Hoshina were close. Rumors were constantly spreading that you were both an item and it was to the point that you both just let them talk. There was only so much denial you could do, until you got burned out. It didn't really bother either of you so you took the rumors in stride but remained good friends and nothing more.

Reno could tell Kafka was pouting as he stared at you and Hoshina's backs. You were laughing at something Hoshina had said and you shoved him. Normally no one would be so comfortable around the Vice-Captain, but you were the exception. While Kafka was friendly with everyone there was something different when it came to you. He hadn't met you until he joined the Defense Force and while he had been friends with Mina since they were children he felt a zing with you that Mina had never given him. But he couldn't bring himself to pursue you, especially hearing that you and Hoshina were an item. Kafka knew rumors were discussed between soldiers but there could be no denying the way Hoshina and you acted around each other that you both were anything less than a couple. Kafka's pout deepened when Hoshina patted your shoulder and broke off towards Mina's office.

"You good sir," Reno asked.

Kafka straightened up, "Yeah I'm good."

"Okay," Reno replied not fully convinced.

Later on Kafka met you in the hall on his way to the baths. The base was starting to simmer down for the evening. All the training and duties done for the day. Not paying attention to his surroundings, Kafka slammed into someone sending them tumbling backwards. He looked up quickly, seeing you falling to the ground. Without a second to delay his hand shot out grasping you around the wrist and righting you before you could hit the ground. Your hair still wet from the baths and dressed in fresh comfy clothes he could tell that you were going back to the women's wing of the base for bed.

"I'm sorry," he stammered. "I wasn't paying attention."

You laughed thankful that Kafka saved you from a bruised tailbone, "That's okay I wasn't paying attention either apparently. Are you okay?"

"Shouldn't I be the one to ask you that," he grinned.

"I guess so but I'm fine. I bumped into you pretty hard."

Kafka waved away your concern, "I've been training. I'm like a brick wall now."

He flexed making you laugh again. It was then that Kafka noticed he still held your wrist. He released it immediately and blushed darkly. He hoped Hoshina wouldn't be offended that he had basically held your hand.

"Kafka?"

The concern in your voice had Kafka shaking the thoughts from his head. Giving you a wobbly and nervous smile he started inching towards the baths.

"Have a good night (Y/n) I hope you have good dreams."

"Thank you," you mumbled. "You too."

If Kafka didn't know better you seemed sad and your shoulders sagged in defeat. He chalked it up to his imagination but the vision plagued him as he soaked in the hot water.

Weeks later and Kafka couldn't erase the thoughts from you in his mind. He felt like it was unhealthy but he didn't want to hurt your feelings. He liked you too much and he was scared of Hoshina. What would the Vice-Captain think if he realized that he was the cause of your sadness? Kafka shivered, tugging at the uniform collar that suddenly felt like it was choking him. He had been feeling on edge too much and he couldn't shake it. That's why Kafka found himself on his way to the Vice-Captain's office to ask for extra training. His martial arts could use some tightening up and his skill with the bamboo blades was just embarrassing. If he wanted to get stronger so he could stand beside Mina he had to give it his all. Kafka knocked on the closed door and Hoshina's muffled voice granted him access. Kafka opened the door and the sight before him made him stumble.

Moments before....

You stood beside Hoshina discussing the new moves he was thinking about trying out. Being childhood friends with Hoshina had it's perks as you were one of the only people he would share such intimate details with. You had trained at his family's dojo right alongside the dark haired Vice-Captain. You even had been better with the blade than him, but once you were trying out for the Defense Force, you realized how skilled you were with firearms. Hoshina being inept with guns trained harder with the blade and easily surpassed you. You did keep training with him so you could use both in battle but the difference between the levels of skills was extraordinary. You wouldn't be deterred though and kept giving the Vice-Captain a run for his money.

"Do you think it'll work," Hoshina asked you.

You shrugged glancing once more at the computer screen, "In theory. It really just depends on you though. Think you're up to the task?"

Hoshina's grin was short of feral, "Absolutely."

"You don't know when to quit do you," you laughed.

"Not really."

"Hoshina?"

"Hmm?"

"Is something wrong with your eye," not many people could tell when he was uncomfortable but it was a different story with you. Being raised with him gave you special Soshiro Hoshina reading powers.

"How could you tell? I thought I was hiding it pretty well," Hoshina crossed his arms.

"You're squinting more that usual," you shoved him.

"Fine," he growled. "Yes I feel like I got something in it during training today and I haven't had time to get it looked at. Would you mind?"

"If you'll give me your portion of pudding tonight," you smirked.

"You win just help me already!"

"Okay okay!"

Now....

Kafka caught himself about to run back out at the sight before him. You leaned over Hoshina, a hand cupping his cheek. He'd had some embarrassing moments in his life and several during his time in the Defense Force but walking in on an intimate moment between you and the Vice-Captain was the worst he endured. His heart shattered and he could feel that heavy anxiety deepening.

"Hibino," Hoshina asked as he leaned back away from you.

"Sorry for intruding," Kafka gulped, trying to calm his breathing. "I was just going to ask if you'd be up for some extra training."

"Sure. Let me and (Y/n) finish up here and I'll meet you in the training room. Ask the other cadets if they'd like to join in as well."

"Yes sir. Thank you sir," Kafka saluted and retreated as fast as possible.

Though he tried his best to hide it you could tell that your closeness with Soshiro was bothering the older man. And his reaction broke your heart. Hoshina swiveled back around.

"I think we just kicked the class clown when he's down," he sighed. "Are you okay?"

"I will be. I just wish he wasn't so awkward around me," you felt several emotions swirling inside.

"Do you like Kafka?"

You stiffened, fighting the urge to blush but losing the battle. All you could do was nod.

"I think he likes you too," Hoshina patted your arm. "But I have the feeling Kafka believes the rumors that we are dating."

"You think so?"

"I know so. He's a genius when it comes to kaiju organs but reading people he's terrible."

"What should I do?"

"I know just the thing," Hoshina chuckled. "Leave it to me. I'll be your wingman."

"Now I'm scared."

"Good!"

"Soshiro!"

When Hoshina said he was going to be your wingman he took it very seriously. During training he made sure to pair you and Kafka up. When the Third Division went out to eat together Hoshina put you two sitting together. Kafka always stiffened up and felt completely clueless. There was no way he misread the situation the other day in Hoshina's office. He wouldn't complain about the extra time with you, but he had a bad feeling it was going to blow up in his face sooner than later. Hoshina could tell that you were getting frustrated and you thought your feelings were obvious, you were losing hope.

"I don't think I can keep doing this," your hair was a mess from you running your fingers through it.

"I'm running out of ideas too, short of locking you both in the broom closet," Hoshina rubbed his temples.

All you could do was lay your head against the desk, unwilling to look back up. Hoshina comforted you the best he could, when the high pitched sirens cut through the base. Another kaiju had emerged and duty called.

Kafka ducked another yoju as he raced across the battlefield. Buildings destroyed and rubble piled in his way. He had lost sight of the majority of the Third Division members, but he knew a lot of them were clearing the path for Mina to take down the honju. He was trying to make himself as useful as he could be until he heard a cry shoot across the battlefield. He knew that voice and it froze the blood in his veins. He shouted your name, forgetting everything but you he raced in your direction. He found you quickly his pistol aimed at the injured yoju that hovered over you. Your leg laid at an awkward angle and he knew that it was broken. You had no chance of getting away and he wouldn't let you leave him without a fight. He released a couple shot rapidly, but his suit didn't have enough power. It just stung the kaiju's hide but he now had it's attention on him instead of you.

"Come and get me," he taunted.

"Kafka," you cried. You knew he was basically powerless and you didn't want to lose him so horrendously without telling him how you really felt about him.

Kafka ignored you taking off into a run with the yoju hot on his heels. If he could get far enough away he could transform and take care of the kaiju before he could get back to your side. He'd protect you at all costs, even if he had to reveal his secret. Your life was more important to him than his own. Finally he deemed it safe before he transformed quickly and easily finished off the wounded kaiju. Transforming back he made it back to your side quickly.

You panted as the pain from your broken leg radiated up. You gritted your teeth trying to scoot back so you could lean against some rubble. If this was where it was going to end you wouldn't go down without a fight. Luckily your rifle wasn't far and you were able to place it on your lap. You heard footsteps and you really hoped it was Kafka as you just knew that seeing him run off was going to be the last you saw of him ever. You could have cried in relief when you spotted him, darting around piles of rubble.

"You idiot," you sobbed. "I thought you were going to be killed!"

"I'm fine," he replied. "Your leg."

"Broken. It hurts but I'll live," you gritted your teeth as he prodded it gently.

"I saw you down and my heart stopped," Kafka wheezed as the memory replayed in his mind. "I don't think I could live with myself if I lost you and never told you."

"Kafka?"

"I know you and Hoshina are dating but I really like you! I have for awhile and I'm sorry. I should have kept these feelings to myself but it hurts."

"Kafka," you grabbed his chin bringing his gaze back to you. "Hoshina and I aren't dating! Those are rumors that we can't seem to squash. We're childhood friends. I grew up with him and trained at his family dojo. He's like a brother to me. I like you a lot too you big dummy."

"You," Kafka gulped. "You do?"

"Ugh yes so please for the love of my sanity shut up and kiss me already!"

Kafka nodded a little nervous as he kissed you sweetly but quickly. You both were still in the middle of the battle so he wanted to stay aware of his surroundings. He pulled away carefully sitting down by your side and taking your hand intertwining his fingers with you.

"Finally," Hoshina's voice cut through the moment. "I thought you two were going to drive me into an early grave. Especially Hibino! How dense can you be?"

"Sir," Kafka asked.

"Start reading people a little better or you'll be the death of us all," he huffed. "And as for you (Y/n) stop getting injured so much. I have medics inbound we'll get you fixed up in no time."

"Thank you Vice-Captain," Kafka saluted but stayed by your side.

"Good work you two. Enjoy a few quiet moments before the medics get here."

"Thank you Soshiro," you called back.

The dark haired man just waved as he walked away, feeling accomplished in himself. Kafka looked back towards you and his heart skipped a beat. He felt like a dream had finally come true and he wanted to hang onto it tightly as he held on tight to your hand. He only had a little time but he made sure not even one second went to waste as he found forever on that quiet battlefield.