#none of this is sarcastic by the way I genuinely love her now after this episode

[elegantmarigold]

Not that I wasn't already on-board with the idea, but this episode thoroughly convinced me that Lena is autistic because there's zero other explanations for that conversation with sam, absolutely none. And honestly I love that for her, I hope she continues to baffle her employees by just existing the way she does. The Lena fans were right this whole time, she is a fantastic character. I get it now.

I specifically want to shout out this line. That's so real of you Lena, I understand, flawless logic:

Big fan of this one too:

[delulujuls]

his eyes | mv33

hi! you asked about part two for the mad dutchman and the fearless dutchess so i delivered (its still hot, fresh from the oven). i'm not sure if i like it but don't worry, for sure i will write something about the mad dutch duo in the future. but now enjoy this one!

summary: eyes can say a lot so where it comes to reveal feelings there is no place to hide

warnings: none, mentions of car accident

pairing: fem!redbulldriver x max verstappen

Max's eyes were beautiful.

They were always beautiful when they had small wrinkles around them caused by smiling. Always then, they were the color of a cloudless sky on a warm july morning. They were beautiful even when there was a storm raging inside. They were dark and agitated then, but still beautiful. But they were beautiful in a terrifying way, because at that moment there was no trace of a smile on Max's face, and the only warmth was the rage burning in his veins.

Y/N could have sworn she had never met another pair of eyes like Max's, so whenever she could, she allowed herself to drown in them. Even during arguments, when they were shouting and calling each other names, his eyes were beautiful. However, they lost all their beauty when they were struck by fear.

When Max was scared, his eyes faded. The july sky was covered with clouds and the turbulent sea was shrouded in fog. Y/N stopped noticing the fear in Max's eyes when he managed to break free from his toxic father and their karting years ended, replaced by Formula 1.

However, on that day when she woke up in the ambulance, the first thing she encountered was the cloudy sky in his eyes. Max wasn't scared; he was terrified to the core. When, after a few seconds, his brain acknowledged that his friend was alive, he sighed with relief. The sky began to clear.

"I never thought I'd be so happy to see those deceitful eyes of yours."

Verstappen smiled, squeezing his friend's hand.

"What happened?"

She asked with difficulty. Her throat hurt terribly; the hot smoke and fumes had taken their toll.

"You had an accident and lost consciousness. We'll be at the hospital soon."

"Accident is an understatement," a paramedic interjected, removing her drip from the hanger "You did a Grosjean from Bahrain 2020."

Y/N blinked several times and it took her a moment to connect the dots. Judging by the man's comparison, her accident must have been truly unpleasant.

"How's the car?"

"Just needs a wipe."

She rolled her eyes at her friend's words, and a moment later, she coughed. Quickly, she put her oxygen mask back on.

"Don't worry about the car," Max said, still holding her hand. "The most important thing is that you're back with us."

"At what cost? At least, being unconscious spared me from looking at you."

She replied sarcastically, pulling the mask slightly away from her face. Max chuckled quietly at her words, relieved that she still had the strength to joke after everything. She returned his smile. She still didn't fully grasp what had happened or what she had been involved in, but the feeling inside her body told her it must have looked bad. The last time she saw fear in Max's eyes was years ago.

But something had changed after that. Since her accident, she noticed that Max's eyes looked at her differently. In a way she had never seen before, a way she couldn't compare to anything else. They looked at her with unimaginable gentleness and tenderness. They looked at her with love.

"You're damn stubborn, you know that?"

Max said when barely two weeks after the accident Y/N, using crutches, appeared in his garage. He didn't say it maliciously; he was just genuinely worried. He put down his water bottle and approached his friend, gently hugging her and pulling up a chair for her.

"I'm glad to see you too."

She replied, leaning her crutches against the chair and sitting on the workbench.

Max sighed and shook his head. Since the accident, Y/N had been a constant source of concern for him.

"What?" she asked, glancing at him, "I'm not getting into the car, don't worry."

"You should be resting."

"I am resting, see?" Y/N pointed to her makeshift seat, "More comfortable than a bed."

Max was about to reply, but he was called to take his place in the car. Friends exchanged glances one last time and as he left the garage, Y/N hopped off the bench and approached Christian's workstation, taking a seat next to him. He smiled at her and handed her headphones.

"Good to see you, Y/N."

"Some would prefer me not to be here."

She replied, glancing at the monitor. Christian smiled at the thought of Max, who was very concerned about his friend.

"He was really worried about you, like we all were."

"I guess I'm just not used to Verstappen seeing more than the tip of his own nose."

The man laughed at her words. She was absolutely right; Max's reputation could be unpredictable. However, lately, his behavior had changed noticeably, evident to everyone in the paddock.

When the training session ended, friends returned to the hotel. Max kept pace with Y/N, ready to catch her if she stumbled. Moving on crutches wasn't problematic for her, though.

"Don't look at me like I'm an eighty-year-old grandma."

She said, seeing his gaze as they reached her room and she plopped onto the bed with a heavy sigh.

"I'm not looking at you like that. We both know that you are slower than this only in a car."

Y/N grabbed a pillow and threw it at him and he laughed, effortlessly catching it. They looked at each other for a moment in silence, but Y/N lowered her gaze when she noticed his eyes doing it again. Looking at her in that way.

"Christian said you were worried" the girl said, after a moment gathering enough courage to look at him again, "Really?"

"I thought I was pulling a corpse out of that wreck. Of course I was worried."

She lowered her gaze again, focusing on her hands. Max squeezed the pillow in his hands and sat next to her.

"Thank you."

She said softly. Even though she had thanked him earlier, she knew that no amount of gratitude would match the level of his deed. She turned her head towards him and their gazes met again. He smiled.

"I knew you'd do the same. You've always got my back, no matter how angry you are with me."

Y/N snorted and nodded. Max was absolutely right. Although some time had passed since the accident, they hadn't had a chance to talk about it. Not about the accident itself, but about what changed between them. Because something definitely had changed.

"Can I ask you something?"

She spoke up, glancing at him. He nodded.

"Did what happened change anything between us?"

"What do you mean?"

Max tensed a bit. Although he didn't move an inch, after so many years spent together, you could pick up every detail.

"You're behaving differently toward me."

She explained. He looked at her attentively.

"You're more affectionate. I've never felt something like that from you before."

Max lowered his head and interlaced his fingers. He wasn't sure how to put into words what had been swirling in his head for some time and growing stronger with each passing day. So, he decided to go for honesty.

"When I was pulling you out of the car, I had no idea if you were alive. Riding in the ambulance, I wondered if I would ever be able to talk to you again and apologize for that senseless argument."

He took a deep breath and rubbed his face with his hands.

"When you woke up and looked at me, I thought I'd cry with happiness. That's when I realized how much you mean to me and how important you are."

Y/N stayed silent, trying to absorb all the words he had spoken. She could feel the emotions quickening her pulse, so she decided to lighten the mood a bit and probe whether they were on the same page.

"If you had kissed me, I probably would have woken up faster."

Max felt as if someone had poured a bucket of cold water on him. He blinked several times and looked at his friend. She just smiled slightly.

"Kissed?"

She nodded.

For a moment, Max struggled to open his mouth to say something, but to no avail. He was in too much shock.

"Are you setting me up now?"

"I'm not setting you up, Max."

"Yes, like if I had kissed you back then, you would have woken up faster. But only to punch me in the face."

She laughed and fell back on the pillows, pretending to be dead.

"You have to check it yourself."

Max wondered for a moment if she was joking, but he didn't have time for further contemplation. She grabbed his shirt and pulled him toward her. He leaned on his elbow next to her head and looked at her face. Her gaze and a faint smile indicated that it wasn't just a silly joke.

Without hesitation, Max lightly touched her cheek and kissed her. She smiled and hugged him around the neck, returning the kiss.

When they separated for a moment to catch their breath, the eyes of the two met again and Y/N once again allowed herself to drown in the boundless blue of his eyes. The turbulent sea was calm and the july, sunny sky was cloudless. Everything was fine.

Everything was just how it supposed to be.

[yuellii]

catch me if you can, salvatore

𝐈𝐍 𝐖𝐇𝐈𝐂𝐇 there are quite obvious red flags in your relationship, and they’re all from him

feat. neuvillette, zhongli, pierro ( separately )

note. reader’s gender unspecified, the old men of genshin ( i’m so sorry ), established toxic marriages given the prompt, possible fontaine lore inconsistencies

> [part one] . part two

NEUVILLETTE. always too serious

Your bedroom was a space sadly quieter than even the outdoors. For at least on your doorstep, the sounds of crickets were heard, the mechanical noises of distant construction were there—but here, there was not even a sound.

Perhaps you were too sensitive. But you also thought a spouse had every right to feel love and respect from their husband, and you felt none of that. The suffocation of this Fontaine air only brought up an even more suffocating man, and you fear you may lose your breath before even coming to your senses.

“You’re up late.” He stood right behind you at the opening of the balcony. Of course, you didn’t hear him coming from inside that silent fortress of a household. “Shouldn’t you be in bed?”

His words—you wish he didn’t say them, for they’ll unwillingly fill your thoughts with the idea that he cares. But sometimes ( or perhaps most ), you were too foolish to counteract that.

“Couldn’t sleep,” you simply said, continuing to stare out into the blue aura of the nation. A technicolor world made of music and machine—but unfortunately, your husband was only like a machine. “Was so caught up awake, completely immersed by your current court performance,” you yawned sarcastically.

He grumbled, “It’s a court hearing, not a silly performance.” Then, he joined you at the bar of the balcony, perhaps far too distanced from you for your liking. He was never next to you; always paces away just light tonight. “And I’ve been telling you, I can sign you up as a spectator or part of the jury.”

You almost snarled after he failed to pick up your sarcasm. “I’d rather die before you did that,” you scoffed. “Me? Sitting in that stuffy courthouse whilst you talk for hours? If it were my way, Her Grace would’ve had her way a long time ago. Perhaps you can learn from her, sometime. It can loosen you up for once.” He turned to glare at you.

“Oh, spare me the levity.” From the way he suddenly straightened his back, presenting himself a towering height over you, you knew you were about to be scolded. “If you cannot take the Court of Fontaine for what it is instead of a laughing stock, than perhaps you should be the next one on a treason hearing for exile.”

Your stomach dropped. As inconceivable as it sounded, you wouldn’t put it past him with how booming his tone was. And… coming from your own husband… “I wasn’t trying to be disrespectful, good Monsieur.” To very man that wore your wedding band. “But spare me one truth…”

“Right now, are you my husband, or are you the Chief Justice?”

You immediately regretted the question once his eyes looked ready to kill.

⎯ ✧ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

ZHONGLI. overprotective

Sunrise, Midday, Sunset, Midnight.

You could only see the light from the cold glass of your window, or the freshest air from your porch. Sometimes the fresh sea breeze of the harbor, but that was more of a rarity.

You loved Liyue Harbor; so did your husband. Living in Jueyun Karst was safe, sure, but it was boring. And maybe, there was a time that you loved the harbor so much during Lantern Rite—a time where lanterns graced the sky and fireworks were heard all the way from your small home in Minlin. So much, in fact, you almost felt like Rapunzel in those fairytale books when she leaped out of the comforts of her tower to chase the lights.

And even moreso like Rapunzel when Zhongli saw you at the harbor with a look of horror on his face, not caring of the genuine smile you carried before dragging you away by the wrist. Perhaps it was then that you felt more like his scolded child than his ‘beloved’ spouse.

Could he not see the light in your eyes as you pranced around the harbor? Could he not understand how boring it was to be cooped up in the mountains for your ‘safety’? It sucked, it really did. And it sucked even more once you tasted freedom at the harbor, once you met people that would never shackle down your life to never experience the many joys that Liyue had to offer.

“Am I your partner, or your controlled child?!” you seethed once he dragged you back inside the house.

“I am simply bringing you back after you failed to listen to me,” Zhongli calmly stated. Calm, he was also so calm, emotions be damned. “I told you not to go to the harbor, especially on your own. Have I told you what happened before through the tale of Osial?”

You coughed out in exasperation. “You’re acting like this during a festival?” There was a clear betrayal in your voice—it was truly something he had been hiding from you all this time. “You’re just going to let me be locked up in here, because you think a festival is unsafe?”

“It’s for your protection.”

“‘Protection’, give me a break, Zhongli.” You were near desperate to go back, like once you got an inch of freedom, you suddenly needed it all—but perhaps he only saw you like a partner who needs to be more controlled. “I married you for all your adventurous tales,” you reasoned. “You sounded much more excitingly interesting than you actually are, I fear.”

He continued to stare at you, face hardening into something of a glare like a parent disciplining a child. You hated it. You hated this, you hated him. And as he walked back out with the door locked by some force, you could only wonder how you married a man so cruel.

⎯ ✧ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

PIERRO. a master manipulator

“You know I love you.”

The large pads of his fingers massaged coarsely through your hair at the very top of your head, brushing the your scalp almost delicately like a doll.

“Right?”

It felt almost like Hell itself to feel flutters in your stomach from the way the deep mess of his voice resounded in your ears. It was akin to signing a contract with the devil, like this feeling of infatuation was a demon’s sickly trick. “I do.”

He hummed in contentment. Not like you pleased him with your answer, but like you answered him correctly, as if this some sort of test where there was only one right answer.

He had you seated down on his lap, and it still made you feel like a doll. But there was an uncertainty in it—one that made you question if you should be feeling used and disgusted, or in love with being pampered by your husband like this.

You married a leading man of the most dangerous elites. Perhaps the fluttering feelings pulling at your heart were more of a warning sign than something good, but you couldn’t help it when he made you feel so special. Special words, special treatment—so painfully addicting and so obvious to win your favor for your hand in marriage.

“When the time comes,” he whispered once more, as if speaking the holy words only pure lovers could dare to hear, “would you die for me?”

You should’ve know this was coming, truly. It should’ve been clear the moment he courted you, and painfully obvious once he wanted to wed you. A puppet he could control at his will, someone who looked so innocent compared to the dangerous looks of the Fatui—a person easily stricken by love and compliments, easily you.

But he captured your heart in a way that was devouring, like your love was swallowed into a black hold the moment you showed any weakness. He trapped you in a web you could not escape once pulled in, and you feared you were truly doomed from the start. But that was how the leader of the Harbingers worked; and that was how you gave up your life.

“Yes, I would.”

[percevalec]

THIS WONT STAY IN VEGAS {part 2}

Pairing: Charles Leclerc x Female!Reader

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

Summary: You went clubbing with your friend, celebrating her moving to Vegas. You got drunk and don't remember anything. The next morning you find yourself in bed with a stranger and a ring around your finger

Words: 8.4K

Warnings: Alcohol, Mentions of hooking up, cursing, not proof read.

do not copy, rewrite or translate any of my work on any platforms.

Charles' eyes widened in horror as you shoved the phone into his hands. There, in big bold letters, was a headline about him and his mystery wife. And underneath, a picture of the two of you at the wedding chapel. "What - how..." He was at a loss for words, disbelief and frustration in his eyes as he stared down at the article.

Explain this! Why the hell is there an article about us? You yell in frustration. There's no way this is actually happening right now

Charles looked up from the phone, his eyes meeting yours. He let out a defeated sight, running a hand through his hair as he reluctantly answered your question. “I'm a F1 driver, For Ferrari. I’m pretty well known i guess” His voice was low, sheepish. He was still having a hard time comprehending the whole situation. The fact that the marriage was all over gossip pages was just another level of insane. “Great, this is exactly what i needed in my life” you say sarcastically, sitting back down on the couch. Your eyes drift over to your friend “Did you know that?” Charles was silent as he listened to your conversation. “No, I had no idea. I just thought he was another guy at the club” She shoots Charles an apologetic smile as he returns the phone to her. “Crap, I have to head back home” Riley exclaimed as she stands up looking over at the clock “I'm going to assume your lovely husband doesn't want to taint his reputation any more than he already has so i'll trust leaving you with him” You nod in agreement “it's fine Ry, i'll text you later” You say kissing her cheek goodbye.

After Riley leaves, Charles and you are left alone, once again in uncomfortable silence. He looks over at you, his expression still somewhat stunned as he tries to process everything. His eyes linger on you for a moment before he finally speaks up “I'm sorry” he sounds ashamed and genuine, if both of you would have been mindful of how many drinks you were consuming none of this would be happening. “It's not entirely your fault Charles” you respond, giving him a soft smile. Charles was about to speak, but his phone ringing interrupted him. He picks up his phone, looking at the caller ID and lets out a sigh. It was his mom. This was gonna be a nightmare. He answers the call, sounding nervous. “Hey mom” You watch as he steps back into the bedroom.

After a long conversation with his mother Charles disconnects the call. He walked back out to the living room standing  a few feet away from the couch you're sitting on. As he looked at you his eyes seemed remorseful “So…” He took a deep breath before continuing. “She wants us to come to monaco” Your eyes widen as you sit up straight, “what? There's no way I'm going to Monaco with you! What did you say to her?” 

Charles ran a hand through his hair, his expression sheepish. “I didn’t exactly have much of a choice” he said  “She kept asking questions about us and saying how the family wanted to meet my ‘new wife’. He used air quotes as he said the words, clearly less than enthusiastic about the situation. “I couldn't tell her the truth so i said we’ve been dating in secret for a while, and we decided to get married yesterday” He walked towards the couch and sat down next to you, his knees bouncing nervously. You say nothing as you're lost in your thoughts. If you agreed to marry him you could definitely agree to meeting his family. Plus how would you go back home and explain this to your mom “Fine i’ll go to monaco with you” He lets out an almost inaudible sigh of relief, a bit surprised that you relented and agreed to come to Monaco with him. A small wave of guilt passed over him as he thought of what he had gotten you involved in. “Thank you, I didn’t expect you to say yes. I’ll uh...have my assistant book a flight for us and arrange everything.” He tries to sound confident despite his anxiety. This whole thing was absurd. He was taking the woman he got drunk-married to meet his family. “Of course you have an assistant," you say in a teasing tone.

Charles chuckled awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck as you commented on the assistant. “Yeah, it��s part of the whole F1 driver gig.” He didn’t want to come across as bragging or anything, he just figured it was something he should mention. “So, we should get going as soon as possible.” you nod your head in agreement. “I just need to go back to my hotel and pack my things” you say standing up from the couch. Charles nods in agreement. “Right, yeah. Should I… drive you back to your hotel? Or something?”  He cringed internally as he asked the question. He felt like he should at least make sure you get back to your hotel safely, since you were kind of in this mess together. Not to mention the paparazzi were bound to show up eventually.”I would actually like some time to myself” you say softly, hoping he doesn't take offense. “But I'll take your number and meet you at the airport," you follow up with a smile. "Yeah, no that's totally fair" Charles said, his mood slightly deflated. He couldn't blame you for wanting time alone to think, he was sure you had a million thoughts racing through your head just like he did. He pulled out his phone, and you quickly typed your number into the device handing it back. "I'll text you the flight details and my assistant will take care of everything else. See you at the airport then."

———————————————————————————

You get into the uber and give him your hotel address. Finally you're alone, your thoughts running through your head as you make the short drive. The whole situation still felt surreal, and now you were going to Monaco with your husband who you barely even know. What are you going to tell your mom and friends back home? Your phone was already flooded with messages from people asking you questions and fans finding your social media accounts. You really hope this won't go as far as to affect your job, there's no way you would be able to handle that. This  was like a bad rom-com.

You opened your phone ignoring every notification, especially your moms missed calls. You went to Google and typed in “Charles Leclerc”. You scrolled past the articles written about both of you and focused on the other stuff. He was pretty successful. Having won multiple races, even his home grand prix. Okay well at least you didn't marry the worst person on planet earth, and the more you thought about him you noticed he was extremely cute. Maybe this wasn't as bad as you thought. You did always admire the Soccer WAGS, now you were one according to the public, you just belonged to a different sport. 

No! What? You seriously can't be thinking that. This WAS bad and horrible, think about all the backlash you will receive when this whole thing is over and you have to divorce Charles. As you pull into the parking lot, your eyes glance around paranoid as if you’re expecting paparazzi to pop out of every corner. 

Once inside your room, you plop down onto the bed, letting out a deep sigh of exhaustion. It had been a long and chaotic day. You let your mind wander for a moment, trying to come to terms with the fact that you were technically married to one of the most popular Formula One drivers. After a few moments, you sit up on the bed and look around the room. You knew you needed to start packing for the trip to Monaco, but instead you just sat there, feeling a sort of numbness wash over you as you stared at the wall across from you. Your phone interrupts this moment, you sigh and reach for it. It was a message from Charles with all the flight information for tonight. You reply with a thumbs up and lay back down on the bed. Eventually, you force yourself off the bed and start pulling clothes out of the drawers and changing into something more casual while shoving them into a suitcase. You felt a mix of emotions as you packed, curiosity, anxiety, disbelief, confusion. It all felt like a bizarre dream, but you knew it was very much real.

As you finish packing your things, your eyes glance over to the clock on the bedside table. It was getting close to the time you agreed to meet Charles at the airport. With another deep sigh, you picked up your suitcase, called another uber and headed out the door. The drive to the airport was uneventful, but your mind was anything but calm. You thought about all the possibilities of what could happen when you arrived in Monaco. Would the paparazzi be able to find out which flight you were on? Would Charles’s family think you were some type of gold digger? This was all too much.

———————————————————————————

When you finally arrived at the airport, you took a deep breath and looked around the terminal. You spotted Charles off to the side, looking surprisingly calm despite the circumstances. He had a few bags by his feet and as soon as he saw you, he gave a small wave and a tentative smile. Charles walked over to meet you, his eyes studying your face for a moment. "Hey" he said softly, a hint of anxiety in his voice. "Are you ready for this?". “Not really but here I am” you say, accompanying your response with a sigh. Charles let out a soft chuckle at your honest answer, appreciating your candid response. "Yeah, neither am I, honestly" he replied 

He picked up his bags and motioned towards the check-in counter, signaling that it was time to get going. The two of you checked in and made your way to security, standing in line with the other passengers. Charles seemed lost in thought, his eyes wandering to the crowd of people passing by. He dreaded the thought of someone recognizing him and causing a scene before you could even make it to the gate. As the line slowly moved forward, Charles turned to you, trying to hide his tension. "Have you flown first class before?" he asked, trying to make conversation to pass the time. You nod “I have actually” "Ah, okay. Good" he replied, his voice slightly strained. He was silently hoping that the flight would go by quickly so he could get everything over with.  

Charles and you boarded the plane, taking your seats in the first-class section. Charles let out a small sigh of relief as he settled into his seat, grateful for the extra leg room and the privacy of the small space. The cabin was half full, most of the passengers already occupied with their own things as the plane prepared for takeoff. Charles looked at you and attempted a small smile. "You said you've been to Monaco before, were you just traveling or..?". “Yeah just traveling” you respond, sounding hesitant. Charles raised an eyebrow at your hesitancy, noticing that there was more to the story than you were letting on. "Just traveling?" he repeated, sounding interested. "Nothing else?" He leaned in a bit, curious to know more. The plane started moving down the runway, gearing up for take-off. “Yes Charlie, just traveling” You say, sounding annoyed. Realizing you called him Charlie made you quickly apologize “Sorry I didn't mean to”. Charles’s eyes widened as the nickname rolled out your tongue, not expecting the casual use of a nickname. For a moment, he was surprised and a bit flustered by the unexpected familiarity. But he quickly composed himself, masking any surprise with a small smile. "It's...it's fine. I don't mind, '' he said, although his cheeks tinged red. “Anyways, you told your mom we've been dating in secret for a while, right?” Charles looked at you for a moment, a hint of shyness in his eyes. "Uh, yeah, I did," he admitted, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. "I didn't want to say that we just randomly got married, so I lied" you watched him talk, focusing on his words before speaking. “We should probably come up with a story so nothing seems suspicious when they start asking questions” Charles nodded in agreement, realizing that the two of you did need to get your stories straight to avoid any suspicion from his family. "Right, good point." he said, his mind racing to come up with a believable story that would convince his family. "We should probably keep the details simple though, don't want to dig ourselves into a hole or anything" “any ideas?” you ask.

Charles thought for a moment, tapping his fingers absently on the arm rest. "Well, we could say we met through a mutual friend. Or maybe something more spontaneous...like a meeting at a coffee shop" He glanced over at you, searching for your reaction to his idea. “Mutual friend sounds more convincing, we can even say you asked me out after I showed up at one of your races” Charles nodded, visibly pleased with your addition to the backstory. "That could work. It would explain why the family hasn’t met you before, since we’ve been keeping the relationship lowkey" he said, taking note of the cover up story in his mind. “Right, we didn't want the media finding out so we couldn't risk telling anyone” you add. "Exactly." Charles agreed, glad that you were on the same page with the new story. "We’ll stick to that then. Let’s just hope they buy it." He shifted in his seat, feeling a bit better now that you had a plan for handling the questions from his family. “They will if we play our parts right” Charles let out a soft chuckle, amused by your confidence. "You’re right. We just have to be convincing, act natural" he said, his mind already running through different scenarios and questions he could expect from his family.

 “We should try and get some sleep,” you say, shifting your body in the seat to face him. Charles nodded in agreement, feeling the exhaustion catching up to him. "Yeah, good idea," he said, looking over at you. "We have a few hours until we land. Might as well rest while we can" “goodnight charles” you whisper softly before closing your eyes. Charles smiled faintly, a wave of unexpected fondness washing over him as you said goodnight. "Goodnight" he replied, his voice also softer than usual. He settled back into his seat as a slight feeling of comfort creeped in.

———————————————————————————

After a few hours, the plane finally touched down in Monaco, landing at the Nice Côte d'Azur Airport. Charles and you gathered your bags and made your way off the plane and into the terminal. As soon as you stepped out, you could feel the change in atmosphere. The air was warmer, the sound of French being spoken all around. It was like stepping into a different world.

Charles looked around, familiar with the airport after countless times flying in for races. “Alright, let’s go get a taxi,” he said, pointing towards the exit. They made their way through the terminal, Charles’s steps quick and a bit nervous. He was excited to be back in Monaco, but at the same time, he was dreading the upcoming meeting with his family. As they exited the airport, a group of paparazzi suddenly sprung up, snapping pictures of Charles and yelling questions at both of you. Charles tensed up, instinctively shielding you from the flashlights with his body. He was used to dealing with the paparazzi, but having you there made it even more uncomfortable. Charles wrapped his arm around your waist, moving you in front of him as the paparazzi continued to shout questions and take pictures. He could feel the tension in your body and he tried to keep his own composure as he navigated through the crowd. “Stay close” he muttered quietly, his grip on you firm but gentle. “Mhm” is all you manage to respond, overwhelmed by the situation.

Charles guided you both through the throng of paparazzi, finally making it to a waiting taxi. He put both of your suitcases in the trunk before  opening the door for you, ushering you into the backseat before climbing in himself. Once inside the taxi, he let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding, grateful to be away from the flashing cameras and invasive questions. You feel a feeling you can't entirely describe, there's now way you could ever get used to that. Four weeks couldn't come any faster. Charles noticed the look on your face, realizing how hard that must have been on you.. He gave your hand a small, comforting squeeze, trying to ease your nerves. “Don’t worry, they’re not always that intense” he assured you, although he knew that wasn’t entirely true. You look down at his hand on top of yours and give a quick smile before looking out the window. Memories from your previous time here rushing back to you. Charles noticed your smile and felt a rush of unexpected warmth in his chest. Ignoring the feeling he removes his hand from your skin. The taxi began to drive through the streets of Monaco, the sun perfectly shining down on everything. “I remember these streets” you say, breaking the comfortable silence. Charles watched as you spoke. He had been caught off guard by how natural it felt to simply sit in silence with you. As you mentioned recognizing the streets he also turned his attention to the city outside. “I can't believe you grew up here” Charles chuckled softly, his eyes wandering out the window as they passed by familiar landmarks. "Yeah, it's a pretty nice place to grow up in" he said, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. "Most of the time, anyway" He looked back at you, studying your face as you took in the city.

———————————————————————————

The taxi pulled up in front of Charles’s house, the familiar building standing tall and elegant. Charles paid the driver before getting out of the car and retrieving his bags. He looked at you as you grabbed your own bags, a mixed look of nerves and anticipation on his face. "Ready?" he asked, as he led the way up the front steps to the massive front door, bracing himself for the coming conversation with his family. “Yeah, I just can't believe I actually agreed to this” you say with a sigh. Charles's heart was racing as he opened the door and led you inside. The inside of the house was just as extravagant as the outside, with high ceilings and elegant furniture. Charles’s mom and brother were sitting in the living room, watching TV, but they immediately looked up as they heard the door open. Charles’s mom, Pascale, was the first to stand up, her eyes widening in surprise. “You made it,” she said with a smile as she walked over to you. "Coucou maman" Charles greeted his mother, a slight unease in his voice. Pascale wrapped Charles in a tight hug, then turned her attention to you. “And you must be” she said, looking you up and down appraisingly. “My new daughter-in-law”. The word “daughter-in-law” felt incredibly surreal to Charles. He watched you nervously, wondering how you would respond to his mother. “Bonjour. Je suis Y/N, I've heard a lot about you! I wish we could have met a bit sooner but we really wanted to keep things private, désolé”. Both you and Charles were extremely surprised at how the lie rolled off your tongue. Pascale was a bit taken aback by your perfect French, clearly impressed by your proficiency, and your charming response. "Oh, mon Dieu! votre français est remarquable!" she exclaimed, clearly taken in by your fluency. Charles looked at you in surprise, he had no clue you understood French, let alone spoke it. “Where are you from?” she asked. Before you can even open your mouth, Charles answers the question for you “She's from New York ''. You quickly turn to look over at Charles, before returning your gaze back to his mom. “Yes, I'm from New York but my mother made me take French lessons when I was younger” You say, letting both Pascale and Charles know. “Maybe she knew you would marry someone who speaks French,” Charles' mom jokes. Making Both of you laugh. 

Charles chuckled uneasily at his mother’s joke, the mention of marriage only adding to the tension. He glanced at you again, impressed by how you were handling the situation much better than he expected. “Please come sit down,” Pascal says, leading you to the living room. 

Charles and you followed his mom into the living room. Arthur, Charles’s younger brother, was sitting in an armchair, watching the scene unfold with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism. He gave you a slight nod in greeting, studying you intently. “Hello” you say Greeting Arthur in a low voice before taking your seat next to Charles. Charles couldn’t help but feel a pang of protectiveness as you sat down next to him, unsure on why he felt more at ease now that you were closer. Arthur gave you a small smile, his eyes darting from you to his brother, clearly trying to figure something out.

"I know you guys must be tired but please do tell me how you met each other" Pascal says with joy in her voice. Charles and you both turn your attention back to his mother, trying to keep up the façade. Charles glances at you for a moment before beginning the made-up story. "We met through a mutual friend about two years ago" he started, trying to keep his voice casual. "We got to talking and it just kind of went from there" You nod in agreement, adding a smile to show that you are onboard. Pascale is hanging on every word, clearly enamored by the story. Arthur, on the other hand, is not as convinced and gives Charles a dubious look. Charles shoots him a look back, signaling for him to let it slide. "it was very romantic, he confessed his love to me after one of his races" You say continuing the story you and Charles planned on using. 

Pascale let out a small squeal of excitement, clearly loving your romantic story. "Oh how lovely!" She exclaimed, giving Charles a playful nudge. Charles tried to keep his composure, feeling more and more guilty at the way his mom was buying the lie. You look down as you feel Charles grab your hand that's resting on your thigh.  "Well maman as much as I would love to keep talking about us, we are very tired”. He says as he stands up, also dragging you to your feet. Pascale looked slightly disappointed at Charles' desire to end the conversation, but she recognized the exhaustion on both of your faces. "d'accord" she said, standing up as well. "You must be tired after such a long flight." “It was very nice to meet both of you” you say looking over at Pascal and Arthur. “I know how weird me suddenly being here must be, but we didn't expect it to get out of hand” You looked over at Charles as you spoke. “We had already booked flights to Monaco so we could talk to you before going public, but the media ruined everything” You say clearly lying  giving charles hand a squeeze. Pascale was clearly moved by your words, touched by your considerate approach to the situation. She smiled at you, "Of course, ma cherie, we understand" she said soothingly. "The media can be quite relentless, unfortunately. But i'm glad that you're here now. I need another woman in this family, "she says laughing. You chuckled, feeling guilt about all the lies you have been saying. How were you ever supposed to go through with the divorce now? You never expect this to be so hard.

Arthur's gaze seemed skeptical, his eyes looking between you and Charles. But before he could say anything, Charles spoke up. "We're going to head to bed now" he said, eager to escape the scrutiny. You wave goodbye before you grab your suitcase, Charles dragging you upstairs wanting to leave the living room as fast as possible.

———————————————————————————

Charles pushed the door open, and placed your suitcases inside. His room was large and tidy, with a king-size bed against one wall and a few pieces of expensive-looking furniture. The room had a minimalist aesthetic, with a few framed pictures and a large window overlooking the city.

Charles let go of your hand as he shut the door behind you, his mind clearly still racing. You're not sure why but the sudden loss of his touch makes you feel off. “Fuck of course theres only one bed” you say realizing you would have to share a bed. Charles noticed the slight disappointment in your voice. He glanced at the bed and then back at you, feeling the awkwardness of the situation. He hadn’t thought about the sleeping arrangements beforehand, and now it was too late. He scratched the back of his neck, feeling a bit flustered. “Yeah, I didn’t think that through '' he admitted, his voice a bit tense. “But it wouldn’t be our first time sharing a bed” he says, winking at you jokingly referring to your previous hookup. “Shut up” you say laughing, pushing him slightly. Charles chuckled with a playful smile forming on his face. “Hey, I’m just stating facts” he said, his tension fading slightly at your laughter. He reached out and poked your side, his fingers gently skimming your ribs. You freeze at his touch, turning over to look at him giving him an intriguing look. Charles noticed the curious look in your eyes, his smile growing wider. He took a step closer to you, his hand still on your side. “What’s that look for?” he teased, his fingers gently digging into your ribs, tickling you slightly. “Hey” you yelp as you squirm at his actions. Charles smiled at your squirming and laughing, his fingers continuing to torment you. “What are you going to do?

Make me stop?” he challenged, a mischievous glint in his eyes. You quickly move to face him, walking backwards to get away from him. Charles took your step back as a challenge, his smile growing wider. He stalked after you, his eyes locked on yours. His fingers continued to tickle you as he moved, closing the distance between you in quick strides. Your laughter grows as your knees hit the bed behind you, resulting in you sitting on the bed. Charles’s eyes lit up with amusement as you fell, the sound of your laugh filling the room. He closed the remaining distance, standing over you as you sat on the edge of the bed. His hands stilled, no longer tormenting you with tickles. He looked down at you, a slight hint of something else in his gaze. Your breathing suddenly clams down as you realize Charles is towering over you. He watched the rise and fall of your chest as you caught your breath from the laughing, his gaze flickering down before returning to your eyes. You look up at him, locking eyes.  Charles continued to look down on you, his mind racing. Your nearness was making it hard for him to think straight. He couldn't help but notice the way your hair frames your face. His eyes flicked to your lips, the memory of their taste all too fresh in his mind. 

“I'm pretty tired, I think I'm going to try and get some sleep” You say breaking the silence, still looking into Charles’ eyes. Charles' gaze lingered on you for a moment longer before he finally spoke, his voice a bit rough. “Yeah, okay” he said, stepping back to give you some space. You scoot back, finding your side of the bed and getting comfortable. Charles watched your movements. He thought he should give you some space, but he couldn't shake the feeling of wanting to stay close to you. “Do you mind if I join you?” he asked, his voice a little strained. “It's not like you had another option, and you're right. It wouldn't be our first time sharing a bed” You said jokingly. Charles chuckled, feeling a bit of the tension ease at your laughter. "It definitely wouldn't be the first crazy thing we do" he said, his eyes trailing over your body as you lay in the bed. He swallowed visibly, his mind flashing back to the last time you were in a bed together. 

You turn your body so you can face Charles “i still havent talked to my mom about any of this” You say in a low voice with a slight hint of worry. Charles noticed the change in your voice. He had been so caught up in the moment that he had almost forgotten about the outside world. He moved to lay a bit closer to you, propping himself up on his elbow.

"Right, the whole explaining to families thing" he said, a note of irony in his tone. "What do you plan on telling her?"  You sigh “Well I'm not sure, I was thinking…” Charles watched you in silence, patiently waiting for you to continue. He could see the conflict in your eyes. Not sure what took over him but he reached out and gently tucked a stray piece of hair behind your ear. "What were you thinking?" he prompted, his voice gentle. His touch feels soothing and familiar to you. “Well maybe I could tell her the truth. The reason this has gone far is because you can't risk the press finding out that our marriage was a drunk accident.” you reply, hoping Charles agrees to your plan. “But what if your mom tells someone and then the truth comes out, i can't risk that”. You nod in agreement, “Yeah i guess you're right, maybe i'll just talk to her when all all of this is over'' You weren't entirely sure why you cared about Charles reputation, but part of you knew that if he faced backlash, so would you. And there's no way you could handle the millions of eyes and name dropping sleazes speaking about you negatively. 

“We have time to figure something out” he says trying to ease the situation, “4 weeks” you reply with a sigh. "Yeah, four weeks," Charles repeated, his voice a bit weary. He flopped back onto his back, his eyes staring up at the ceiling. Four weeks. It felt both like an eternity and not long enough all at once. “Goodnight Charles” you whisper. Snapping him out of his thoughts. “Goodnight Y/N”

———————————————————————————

Week 1 day 2

Charles slowly woke up, his mind foggy with sleep. He opened his eyes and was immediately reminded of the night before. He turned his head to look next to him and saw that you were still asleep, a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips at the sight. A few moments later your eyes fluttered as you slowly woke. The early morning sunlight streamed through the window, casting a soft glow across the room, the shadows contouring your face perfectly. Groggily, you turned over, letting out a yawn as you struggled to shake off the remnants of sleep. Charles noticed your stirring, his eyes watching as you roused from sleep. He silently observed as you slowly awakened. He propped himself up on one arm as he waited for you to fully open your eyes.

 “Hey” you groan as you stretch. You had a goodnight sleep despite the situation you're in. Charles chuckled softly at your sleepy greeting. "Morning'" he drawled, his voice still rough "we should head down for breakfast". “Okay. yeah, let me just get dressed”. Charles nodded, reluctantly pulling away from the comfortable bed. He stood up and stretched, his back popping audibly. He watched as you rose from the bed, his eyes tracing over your figure. 

You walk into the bathroom to get dressed. You decided on a little flowy dress, you thought it would be perfect for the weather today. Naturally you took longer than Charles to get ready. He didn't really have to wait for you to finish, he could have gone downstairs by himself. It's not like couples spend every second together, but he still chose to wait. Charles watched as you came out of the bathroom, his gaze never leaving you. He couldn't help but admire your figure, the way the clothes looked on your body. He had to force himself to tear his eyes away. Why he was suddenly looking at you in a different way was a question he couldn't exactly answer. He obviously knew you were attractive. That's the whole reason you got into this mess, he thought you were so beautiful he had to ask you to marry him. But Charles knew there was no point in trying to start anything. You weren't looking for a relationship, or at least not with him. You weren't cut out for the type of fame that came with dating him, and either way all of this was ending in four weeks. Right?

“Okay, let's go,” you said, making your way towards the door. Charles nodded, watching you exit the room first. He followed behind you. You both made your way to the kitchen, the smell of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air. As you entered the room, both Pascale and Arthur were at the table drinking coffee and chatting. Pascale looked up as you entered, a bright smile on her face.

“Good Morning” you say smiling as you greet both of them. "Good morning dear!" Pascale responds, her eyes darting between you and Charles, who stood behind you. Arthur nodded in greeting. Charles pulled out a chair for you, gesturing for you to sit. He then took a seat next to you at the table, his knee brushing against yours under the table. Pascale and Arthur continued to chat as they prepared breakfast, glancing intermittently in your direction before Pascal spoke up. "That's right, I forgot to ask to see your ring," she says with excitement. “Oh yeah, it's beautiful” The question caught you a bit off guard. You had honestly forgotten about the cause of all your problems, the ring on your finger. Regardless you extend your hand, showing Pascal the stupid but beautiful ring. Pascal's eyes widened as she took in your ring, a radiant smile crossing her face. "Oh my! Look how lovely!" she exclaimed, admiring the sparkle of the diamond in the light. Arthur peered at the ring, a stoic expression on his face. “I couldn't have asked for a better one” You laugh, turning over to look at Charles. You watched as he chuckled, a hint of pride in his eyes as he looked at you. "Yeah, I picked the perfect one" he agreed with a smirk. He reached out and grasped your hand that was holding the ring, his fingers tracing the band softly. You looked up at him, a bit confused by his actions. Charles met your gaze, his fingers still holding onto your hand. A moment of silence passed between you, the world seeming to fall away. His thumb traced small circles on the back of your hand. 

Arthur cleared his throat, bringing Charles and you back to reality. Charles quickly let go of your hand, as if remembering that you had an audience. Pascale was still gushing over your ring, oblivious to the moment that had just passed between you and Charles. "Why am I becoming so forgetful" pascal exclaims "Charles dear do you think you could quickly go and get bread from the boulangerie, it's not far on foot"

Charles gave a nod, thankful for the distraction. "Yeah, I can do that," he said, standing up from the table. Not knowing what took over you, you make the decision to grab his hand, stopping him from leaving “i'll go with you too babe” you say smiling. Charles's eyes widened a fraction as you grabbed his hand. He looked down at you, a hint of surprise in his gaze. He couldn't deny the fact that he liked the way “babe” sounded on your lips. "Yeah?" he answered, a small smile playing at the corner of his mouth. “Mhm” you respond as you stand up, pulling yourself closer to him. 

He tried to ignore the way his heart quickened at your proximity. "Alright then" he said, his voice slightly strained. "Let's go get the bread." “We’ll try to hurry,” you follow up

Charles nodded in agreement as you said goodbye to Pascale and Arthur. He led the way out of the kitchen to the front door, his hand still in yours. As soon as the door closed behind him, he turned to you "You're trouble, you know that?" he said, a hint of amusement in his voice. “Me! How?” you reply with laughter "You, grabbing my hand, calling me babe, needing to go with me for a simple task" he responded. “Well I didn't want to be left alone with your family, I know nothing about them and besides what if slip up on a lie”. Charles sighed, realizing the truth in your words. "Fair enough" he conceded, his grip on your hand tightening slightly. "Guess you have a point there." He looked over at you, taking in the vulnerability in your eyes. "But that “babe” thing?. You roll your eyes “Don't let it get to you, If we don't show affection they might get suspicious”. Charles squeezed your hand in agreement. "You're right, gotta sell the bit" he said with a smirk. “Okay well i think we’re far from the house now” you say as you let go of his hand. Charles felt a pang of disappointment as you let go of his hand, the absence of your touch creating a sense of emptiness. A part of him wanted to grab your hand again, to pull you closer, but he resisted.

———————————————————————————

You and Charles approached the bakery, the familiar sight and smell of fresh bread filling the air. As you walked up to the counter, Charles's eyes roamed over the variety of pastries and loaves of bread on display. But he was also drawn to something outside. You feel a strange sense of deja vu. Have I been here before? You ask yourself in your head. Suddenly you get snapped out of your thoughts by the cheerful voice of the woman behind the counter. "Bonjour, monsieur, mademoiselle. What can I get for you today?" she said, her eyes flickering between you and Charles. “Order the bread, i'll be back in a second” Charles says tapping your hip slightly before leaving the bakery. You ignore whatever he's doing and focus on your task. 

The worker hands you the bag of bread as you pay. You walk outside looking for charles. You can't seem to find him so you walk a little further down the street, spotting someone you think you recognize. You squint your eyes trying to get a better look. “Hey!” Charles says poking your sides from behind you. “OMG! don't ever do that again” You say nudging him slightly, realizing he's holding a brown paper bag. “Did you get the bread?” he asks, laughing at your reaction to him scaring you. “I did, but what did you get?” you reply as you furrow your eyebrows in confusion, curious to know what he bought. “Dont worry about it, i'll show you when we get home’ 

He started walking again, gesturing for you to follow him back to the house. 

——————————————————————————-

You arrive back to the house and walk into the kitchen. “I hope we didn't take long” you tell Pascal as you set the bag of bread down on the table. “Of course not dear” she responds, reaching for the bread. “Please sit down, eat something”. 

“Actually we had some on the way here” Charles says to his mom, the mystery paper bag still clutched in his hand. “Yeah, we're a bit full” you follow up with a chuckle. “D’accord, but please don't be shy with me". She says with a smile before returning to talking with Arthur.

“Come, let's go back upstairs, I have a surprise for you” Charles says, taking your hand, dragging you upstairs. You couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at Charles’ words. A surprise? What could it possibly be?. You allowed him to lead you up the stairs, your curiosity piqued.

As you reached the top of the stairs, he opened his bedroom door and ushered you inside.

“What is it?” you ask as you sit on the bed. Charles mirrored your movements, sitting next to you handing you the paper bag before replying “Open it in see”. You give him a quick look before opening the bag. Your eyes widened in disbelief “NO WAY!! THEY SELL IT HERE” You yelp standing up in excitement. He bought you the latest issue of the magazine you write for. Charles couldn't help but smile at your reaction when you saw the magazine. Your excitement was contagious, and he enjoyed seeing the happiness spread across your face. "I remember you telling me you wrote for a magazine and well I saw your last name on the cover and figured that one must be it since your mom owns the company" he admitted as you stood up.”I can't believe you remembered,” you softly say as you look down at Charles. 

Charles shrugged, trying not to make a big deal about it, but you could see the hint of pride in his eyes. "Of course I remember, I listen when you talk, and I would be a bad husband if I didn't remember," he said, his tone soft but still joking. He patted the space next to him on the bed, silently requesting for you to sit back down. You happily accept taking a seat next to him “Thank you, i know its an effortless gift but no one has ever done something like this for me” you say in a soft tone. Charles's heart ached slightly at your words. "Someone should have," he murmured, his voice low. He reached out and tucked a strand of hair behind your ear, his fingers lingering on your cheek for a moment before he pulled back. "You deserve nice things, Y/N." 

You smile at him not knowing what to respond. You're not falling for him, You can't. There's a million reasons why it won't end well. You couldn't keep the lie about how you actually met a secret for your whole relationship. What would you even tell people, You hooked up, got married, met his mom, fell in love, then got together ? That would be perfect if it was reversed. But it's not and you both know that. With that in mind, you decide to speak up. “Charles, we barely know each other that well and if you really think about it, it's only been a few days we've spent together, and I can't…”. Charles sighed, realizing the truth in your words. "Yeah, I know," he said, a hint of melancholy in his voice. He had been so caught up in the moment, in the way you made him feel, that he sometimes forgot that all of this was temporary. "You're right, we barely know each other and..." he trailed off, struggling to find the right words.

“I'm sorry if you ever thought i was leading you on” you say feeling a bit guilty about your words. Charles shook his head, not wanting you to apologize. "No, no," he said. "You didn't lead me on, I just... I got caught up in all this." He let out a dry chuckle, "It's just that spending time with you feels so natural and easy. Like we've known each other for years, not days." 

“I feel it too but it could never work out, you're a formula one driver and I'm just a girl from New York. you would barely be in the states and I wouldn't be able to accompany you to the races once the season starts. it just wouldn't work.” You watched as Charles’ heart sank as you spoke, the brutal truth of your words hitting him full force. He knew you were right, that there were endless obstacles between you and him. He was a world-famous driver, and you had a life in New York, miles away from the races. But despite all that, he found himself wishing it could be different. "Yeah, you're right, let's just push through and get the divorce in 3 weeks," he said eventually, his voice heavy with resignation. You sigh before speaking “And there's no way I would move to Monaco agai-” You quickly look up at Charles hoping he didn't hear the end of your sentence. But he did, His ears perked up at the sound of your words, his eyes quickly darting to your face. "Wait, what?" he said, his tone laced with disbelief. "What do you mean again? 

You stand back up quickly changing the subject “I saw a cute store on the way to the bakery, I think I'm gonna stop by it, My Vegas clothes will only last me so long” you say referring to the clothes that you had only originally packed to only stay a few days in Vegas. Not to live a married life in Monaco. You follow up your words with an awkward smile before walking out of his room. 

Charles watched as you abruptly stood up and walked out of the room, his heart racing. Your use of the word “again” echoed in his mind, and he couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to the story. He waited for a few moments, contemplating whether to follow you or give you space.  But he also remembered your words from earlier. "It would never work" he decided to stay back letting you go.

As you walked down the stairs, you encountered Arthur standing at the bottom, a contemplative look on his face. He observed you for a moment, his eyes lingering on your expression before he spoke. "Everything alright?" he asked, his voice laced with a hint of concern. “Yeah, i'm just going to a store” you replied, giving him a forced smile as you walked towards the door, leaving the house.

—----------------------------------------- 

Day 3, 4 and five were calm, nothing crazy happened between you and Charles. Both of you maintain the facade of being hopelessly in love. You act sweet and affectionate towards each other in front of Charles's family, selling the act effortlessly. Everyone buys it, well everyone except Arthur.

Week 1 Day 6

It was later on in the day getting closer to night time. You were quickly cleaning the dishes before you got ready for bed. You were lost in thought looking outside the window above the sink until Arthur walked up to you. “Hey Y/N” he said. You found this strange. You and Arthur acknowledged each other's existence and had a few interactions here and there but you never really had a conversation with him. “Hey Arthur” you replied with a hint of confusion in your voice. Arthur leaned against the sink, studying your expression as you turned your attention to him. You could sense his hesitation, his eyes searching yours. "Can I ask you something?" he said, his voice low and laced with a hint of seriousness. “Umm sure” you respond with a confused tone. Arthur took a deep breath, as if gathering his thoughts. "I know you and Charles are in this... “pretend” marriage," he said, his tone gentle. "How did it start?" 

Your eyes widen as you hear the words come out of his mouth. His question caught you so off guard that you almost shatter a dish due to the speed you dropped it at. I- what? How do you? What? You stutter, extremely confused as to how he found out.

Arthur chuckled softly at your reaction, his eyes never leaving your face. "Let's just say I overheard you and my brother talking last time, the day we ran into each other on the stairs" he explained. "He said you were getting a divorce in 3 weeks and I figured my suspicion was true, you got accidentally married in Vegas didn't you?" He says somehow laughing at the situation. You look around nervously making sure there's no one in the perimeter. “Arthur, I-” You stutter before giving up. You figure  there's no point in lying. “Please you cant tell anyone, if the media found out it was a drunk decision not only would it get Charles in trouble but I would be dragged to filth. People are already mad I'm dating him, I don't even want to know what they would say if they found out I was a one night stand gone wrong. Arthur nodded in understanding, placing a hand on your shoulder in reassurance. "I get it, trust me and honestly I don't really care." he said, a small chuckle escaping his lips. "If I had a dollar for every time my brother did something stupid I'd be richer than he is. I won't say anything to anyone I promise, but you might need to get a bit better at keeping this lie up". You tilt your head at his words “what do you mean?” 

Arthur grins as his hand leaves your shoulder "just tell my brother Alexandra is coming to the party our mom is hosting next week"

That's all he manages to say as he leaves. You stand there by the sink, left puzzled by Arthur's cryptic words. Who's Alexandra? you think to yourself.

Part 3

A/N: I really enjoyed writing this one, I know its a bit long but I couldn't help myself. If you would like to be tagged in Part 3, comment below and I will add you to the Taglist

Taglist: @tsireyasgf @v4mp1r3bl0g @asparklysoul @sltwins @janeh22 thank you for reading, I appreciate it so much :)

[scoopsahoy]

ok I've seen arguably too many "Steve takes your virginity" fics but not enough "you take Steve's virginity". maybe you could do it where the reader has seen him and a girl go into a bedroom at parties and stuff but he reveals that they don't do anything besides make out and/or talk because he didn't feel truly connected to anyone, but he does with the reader, and you're his first. doesn't have to be exactly that but I'd love to see smth like this. (also set before he and Nancy get together!)

ぺ  word count ⋰ 2.1k

✰  tw ⋰ none :)

❍  cw ⋰ swearing, dirty talk, fingering, descriptive sex, top!reader

✐  masterlist

⋆★⋆★⋆★⋆★⋆★⋆★⋆★⋆★⋆★⋆★⋆★⋆★

What started out as getting paired up as lab partners with Steve Harrington in chemistry class turned into eating lunch together a handful of times, then sitting together at assemblies. But you'd never hung out away from school, which is why it sort of caught you by surprise when he asked you out after class one day.

Obviously you agreed.

Now, you were in his passenger seat looking up at what stars you could see, rain clouds blocking a good amount of them.

You'd been making good conversation the whole time, but after a brief moment of comfortable silence, he decided to change the subject.

"I heard about you and Joey. Sucks."

You nodded. "Yeah. That was weeks ago, though."

"How long were you guys together?"

"Eight months. It's fine. I kinda got the feeling that he wasn't looking for anything long term. Asshat didn't even dump me in person. He called me at like midnight one night to do it. I thought he might've been drunk but nope. He was completely sober."

"What'd he say?"

"Apparently he'd been eyeing a girl in his gym class. He came close to sleeping with her that night before he called."

"Damn."

"Yeah. On one hand, I'm glad he didn't cheat on me, you know?" Steve nodded. "But on the other hand, I almost wish he didn't tell me why he was ending it. Maybe that's just me, though."

"No, it's not just you."

You smirked at him. "Thanks." You looked at each other for a moment. "So... Betty Thompson, huh?"

"What about her?"

"What do you mean, 'what about her'? I saw you guys the other night at Jackson's party."

"What did you see, exactly?"

"I saw her pull you into one of the bedrooms and shut the door."

"Oh, yeah."

"She's really nice. Good for you."

"Yeah. We didn't... do anything, though."

Your brows dipped in confusion. "What? Nothing?"

"No."

"Why not?"

He shrugged. "I wasn't really feeling it. She's sweet and everything. We just didn't... click. Sexually."

"Mm. So what girls have you clicked with? Sexually." You threw in that last part sarcastically.

He shook his head. "None of 'em."

At this point you felt like he was messing with you.

"Not a single one?"

"I mean, we've gotten along in every other way, and I've kissed a few of them and done some other stuff. It just never moved past that."

"What about the first one?" He was silent, staring at the stars. That was when you understood. "Steve... You haven't-"

"No. I haven't. I've only ever felt that click with one person, but I don't know if it'll ever lead to anything."

"Who is it?" He looked at you, still not saying anything. "What?" He still didn't speak. "Is it me?"

He hesitated to nod. "I'm sorry if that makes you uncomfortable. I don't mean for it to."

"It doesn't." He raised his eyebrows. "Not at all."

"Good."

"What is it about me?"

"You're just... more genuine than most of them. With a lot of them it felt like they were only nice because they thought it would lead to sex, not because they were actually nice, you know?" You nodded. "But with you, you're just a really kind person. To everyone."

"Oh."

The energy in the car had shifted, and it started to feel like the space was getting smaller. You reached over and grabbed his hand, which was warm.

"Y/N..."

"Yeah?"

"Can I kiss you?"

You felt your chest tighten a bit. This wouldn't be your first kiss, but it was the first time you'd been asked for permission to kiss you.

You nodded, and you inched your faces closer to each other. His lips were soft and gentle on yours, and he was almost hesitant.

You reached up and cupped the side of his face, pulling him closer, and his nervousness lifted away and he leaned in to kiss you more firmly.

You pulled away after a moment, your faces inches apart.

"Wanna move to the backseat?" you asked, slightly out of breath.

He nodded immediately, and you crawled over the middle console and rather ungracefully landed in the backseat.

When he joined you, you positioned your bodies so that he was sitting in the middle with you on top of him. Your knees landed on either side of his hips and you sat on his thighs.

You craned your head down to kiss him, but you could feel anxiety radiating off of him, so you stopped after a moment.

"Are you okay?" you asked, pulling back enough to look at him.

"Are you seriously asking me that right now?"

"You seem nervous."

"I am. But I'm excited."

You smiled. "Yeah?"

"Yeah. I just... I don't know what I'm doing."

"It's okay. We'll start here." You grabbed his hands and pulled them up to your waist. "How's that?"

"Good."

"How about this?" You pulled his hands up to your breasts, and his breath staggered. "Better?" He nodded. You reached down and grabbed the bottom of your shirt, slowly dragging it up and over your head, exposing your top half and leaving only your bra to cover it.

But that came off just as quickly, your entire upper half bare and unprotected.

His eyes were wide as moons, and you led his hands back up to them. "Okay?" you asked.

"Way better than okay."

You laughed quietly at that. One of his hands trailed to your back and pulled you closer to him, allowing him to plant kisses across your chest. Your hands landed on his shoulders as he left soft, wet spots on your skin.

After a moment, you reached down and pulled his shirt over his head, studying his body. It was littered with moles and freckles and his skin was smooth.

You bent down to press your lips to the right side of his neck and shoulder, making him sigh with satisfaction. His hands slipped down and landed on your thighs, the pads of your fingers pressing into your skin.

Your fingers began unbuttoning his jeans and he lifted his hips, pulling them down his thighs and leaving them pooled at his ankles. You could see a tent in his boxers that had been restricted by his jeans, and it made you bite your lip.

You awkwardly maneuvered to pull your shorts and underwear off, leaving you completely nude in his lap. He looked down and his lips separated, which made your chest go red.

"Steve," you said, getting his attention. "Are you okay?"

"Oh, yeah. I'm good."

He pulled you back in for a kiss and you jumped when you felt two fingers on your clit. You softly gasped into his mouth and he smirked.

"I thought this was your first time."

"I never said I didn't do this part."

One of your hands gripped the seat behind him and the other squeezed his shoulder. His fingers were making almost unbearably slow circles, but when you ground into his hand, he sped up.

"Shit, Steve," you moaned into his mouth as your hands moved back to cupping his face.

One thing you'd come to notice since you became sexually active was how little time you lasted with stimulation to your clit. Granted, it was a lot quicker when it was a tongue than with fingers, but it was never more than a minute. You were just hoping it wouldn't be a turnoff for him.

With your hips slowly yet uncontrollably grinding into his hand combined with how quickly his fingers moved, you knew this orgasm would come ridiculously quick.

You couldn't resist breaking the kiss, both of your hands gripping his shoulders tightly as you pressed your foreheads together.

"Steve, I'm so close. I'm gonna cum."

He kept going, looking at you as your eyebrows dipped down so far that it made your skin wrinkle.

As quickly as that coil in your belly formed, it broke. You gasped deeply, your legs trembling as your entire body convulsed. You involuntarily thrust your hips back and forth as you came, making the car rock with you.

"Fuck, fuck, fuck," you moaned in a high pitched and desperate voice, your nails pressing into his skin.

He kept you cumming until you had to move his hand away, letting your orgasm fade out.

Your breath was shaky, your thighs twitching. His hand landed on your hip, his thumb gently stroking your skin.

"Sorry," you whispered breathlessly.

"Sorry? For what?"

"That was quick. I hope that didn't, like, kill the mood or anything."

"Are you kidding? That was hot."

"Yeah?"

He nodded. "Yeah."

You kissed him with a smile, a moment later whispering into his ear, "Take your boxers off."

Without hesitation, he lifted his hips again and pulled his underwear off, his boner springing free.

You raised your eyebrows as the sight. He was a bit bigger than what you preferred, but you couldn't stop from biting your lip at seeing it. You reached down and wrapped your fingers around his girth, slowly stroking.

He took in a deep breath and closed his eyes, throwing his head back and resting it on the top of the seat. You covered his neck and throat in wet kisses and he softly moaned at the combined sensations.

"Do you have a condom?" you whispered, pulling your hand away.

"Yeah, in my wallet." You reached into the cupholder behind you and grabbed his wallet, pulling out the plastic-wrapped condom and tearing it open with your teeth.

"You're sure about this?" you asked.

"Oh, yeah."

You nodded and reached down, rolling the condom over his erection.

"Ready?"

"Mhm. Ready."

You positioned him at your entrance and slowly sunk down onto him, making both of you whimper.

"Is that okay?" he asked.

"Oh, god, Steve. So good."

"Yeah?"

"Mhm." The pitch of your voice was a bit higher than you intended for it to be, but it was a huge turn on for him to hear you whine.

His eyes remained glued to your face as you slowly bounced, unintentionally moaning when you took all of him.

You kept this slow pace for a moment, trying to adjust to his size. But when you did finally get used to it was when the car began to rock. You squeezed his shoulders and reconnected your lips, soft moans tumbling from your lips and past his.

That was when raindrops started hitting his car, which neither of you noticed. The sounds of skin against skin, panting, and the creaking of the car masked any outside noises that could've possibly intruded. Your eyes were shut, your head thrown back.

"Shit," you whimpered as he left sloppy kisses all over your neck and chest.

"Is it still okay?" he asked, genuine concern in his voice.

"More than okay. So good."

"Y/N?" This time, he sounded embarrassed.

"Yeah?" You looked down to make eye contact, but you didn't stop your movements.

"I think... since it's my first time-"

"Are you close?" All he could do was nod. "That's okay. Cum whenever you want to."

Your encouraging words were more than arousing, and you began kissing his neck again. You could tell with how tightly his fingertips were pressing into your hips that he was close, even before he said anything.

Your lips against his skin drove him crazy, and when he began slightly bucking his hips up into you, you knew he was right there on the edge.

"Cum for me, Steve."

And within seconds, he was melting into the seat, pulling your body into his, and thrusting hard into you. His moans were like music to your ears and you could tell he was in heaven.

When you eventually stilled your movements, he didn't move. He stayed completely still aside from his heavy breathing, his head leaned back.

You cupped his face, angling his head up so he could look at you. You kissed him gently, which made him grin.

When you pulled away, you combed his hair out of his face with your fingers.

"Okay?" you asked.

He nodded quickly. "Oh yeah."

You looked out the window at the rain, smiling to yourself.

"I wonder when that started."

You turned back to him, and he tucked your hair behind your ear.

"Thank you," he whispered.

"For what?"

"Not judging me."

"What would I judge you for?"

"It was my first time, and I didn't last long."

"No guy lasts long their first time."

"Even Joey?"

"Please. It took him not even five seconds to finish the first time. This was much better."

That made him smile. "I'm glad. Next time it'll be longer, I promise."

You tilted your head a bit. "Next time, huh?"

"I mean, if you want to."

You kissed him. "Of course, I do."

He nodded. "Sweet."

[mstormcloud]

More fankids!! Both because they are genuinely fun to make and give lore to but also because I made Mirai and then wanted to make sure she had friends!

Aster is designed by my friend Duetland!! (The last art is by them!!) They aren’t on tumblr but you can find him on Instagram @duetland :)

Lore for each of them under the cut! (LONG POST WARNING!!!!)

Gold and Aster:

Shadow and Sonics kids. They’re twins (with Aster being older). Both were babysat by Tails a lot and ended up picking up a lot of stuff from him as well as their parents. Gold became more responsible and significantly more polite (far more than either of his parents lmao) meanwhile Aster became interested in robotics. Specifically those related to space like rockets or planet rovers.

When the two were born there was immediate concern about their power imbalance. Aster was born with no powers at all, meanwhile Gold’s chaos energy was so high Shadow feared he would burn himself up unless something was done. Due to them being twins, it essentially ended up where instead of two moderately powerful hedgehogs - Gold got enough power for two while Aster has none. This leads Aster to resent Gold, less because she actually wants superpowers but more because Sonic and Shadow are always fussing over Gold (to make sure his powers aren’t harming him) and she feels like her parents don’t care for her. Causing her to push them out even more. She listens to Shadow more than Sonic, but they don’t end up talking through all this properly until Espio gets involved since unlike Sonic and Shadow who had powers all their lives - Espio had to teach himself his abilities and is able to empathize with Aster more.

3. Rhine

Rouge and Knuckles’ child. I’ve thought about her way less WHOOPS but!! Despite not being an echidna he looks up to his father a lot and promises to be the best guardian of the master emerald he can possibly be. Has a habit of just picking up shiny things like a magpie and will turn them into jewelry. Is blunt and gullible like her father but likes thinking things through before she moves. Uses the shovel claws more as weapons than actual shovels - he’s a bit of a neat freak.

Mirai and Gummy:

Mirais story is on my previous post! Not much has been added since then other than that I’ve decided she’s a bit of a troublemaker and very energetic, sarcastic, silly and kinda stupid. As for Gummy he’s about 7 years younger than Mirai, and I haven’t quite figured out what he’d be interested in yet haha

Eli and Anchor:

These two are half siblings! Eli’s parents are Amy and Metal. While investigating the ruins of a disaster, Amy and Metal find a child who who had been incredibly injured. They happen to be closer to Eggmans new hideout (where he has retired and is just kinda pouting by himself forever) than anywhere else - the two break in and force Eggman to help them save the child. Since the current Metal is Amy’s size, there were several smaller models for when he was “younger” - Eggman uses one of these scrapped smaller Metals to give the child cybernetic parts and saves their life. Amy and Metal then take the child back to their house and raise it as their own, with Eggman forcing them to bring Eli over frequently so he can see his grandchild.

Anchor is the child of Blaze and Amy! I’m just letting Amy be poly I think she has a lot of love in her heart and now she has two wifes. Anchor lives the Sol kingdom, and takes after her aunt Marine quite a bit with her love for adventure and especially sailing! When she was young, much like Blaze, she was brought before the Sol emeralds and blessed with a power. I feel like she’d be able to control / harness winds rather than fire though - to help with her sailing.

If you read all of this - thanks!! You didn’t have to but it was very nice of you!

[flyingwargle]

lyney considers himself a decent older brother. he ensures that both his sister and younger brother are cared for, neither of their needs are prioritized over another (with exceptions, of course), and he pays attention to both of them. the last one is relatively easy since they’re both introverts with their own hobbies. all they do is share the same space and atmosphere.

that’s usually the case, but freminet has been spending a suspicious amount of time in his room lately.

ever since they started living altogether, they’ve made one boundary clear: to never enter one another’s private spaces. there are exceptions, as well, such as lyney’s walk-in closet because he loves sharing his hats with his siblings (although none of them have taken up on his offer of having their own custom top hat), and the magic workshop in the basement. their personal bedrooms, however, remain off-limits, until now.

lyney stands in front of the closed door. it’s locked, but it’s child’s play for a magician – three, two, one, and poof! he materializes the master keyring, searching for the correct one to insert into the keyhole.

“i wouldn’t do that, if i were you.”

he doesn’t startle. “curiosity is my greatest sin, my dear sister. unless you can shed some light on what’s being kept on the other side?”

“something that doesn’t concern us.”

“since when did we become a family with secrets?”

silence. he’s either sarcastic or genuine. it depends on the time and place. “he doesn’t work on his toys in the living room anymore,” lynette says slowly.

“indeed. the reason must be related to them, but how? why?” lyney supposes all the marvels that freminet has tinkered with before are kept in his room. he had offered him the spare room in the basement before, but their youngest brother refused, still clinging onto a childhood fear of dark staircases and hallways.

his sister shrugs. “he has his interests.” just like she has a tea collection, and lyney with his hat collection – ever growing, never ending. “it isn’t right for us to interfere.”

“i just want to make sure he’s okay. if he’s up to something harmless, i’ll back down. if it’s something more…” he trails off. his own words hit too close for comfort. “a quick peek wouldn’t hurt, would it?”

he receives neither an answer nor resistance. lynette is still as he inserts the key, hears the lock retract, and turns the knob. the door creaks open when pushed.

it’s dark. the light is blocked behind the drawn curtains. the bed, pushed against the wall, is made with sheets pulled tightly, pillows straight as soldiers at ease. only one half of the room is clean, as if the clutter is reserved for the workbench and closet on the other half.

there is diving gear scattered on the floor, spilling out from the closet drawers. lyney tiptoes around them, summoning a small flame in his palm for illumination. the workbench is similar to his own in the magic workshop, except covered with screwdrivers, nuts and bolts, wrenches, chalk, rulers. a mat rests in the center, where three identical trinkets rest. they’re penguins, the same as pers.

upon closer inspection, he notices each of them are colored to match their corresponding motifs.

“wow.” he’s awed. “so that’s…”

“lyney? lynette?”

he jumps. freminet is at the doorway, eyes on them. lynette recedes into the shadows, guilty by association. lyney extinguishes his flame, along with a nonchalant wave. “ah, freminet! i thought- i thought you were still at the court…”

“i left early.” his brother’s voice is soft, not at all scandalized. he steps closer. “so…you noticed that i was hiding something?”

“ah…well, you know i have to make sure you’re okay. i am your big brother, after all. it looks like all is well, so we’ll get out of your hair!” lyney grabs his sister on his way out, steering her by the shoulders toward the doorway. freminet stops them.

“i’m not upset. you just ruined your own surprise.”

“huh?” lyney grinds to a halt.

“you said that you wanted new props for your magic show. i’m still in the process of designing them, but…” freminet steps toward the workbench, gesturing at the penguins. “they won’t be ready for this week’s show, but maybe…maybe the next one after.”

lyney is silent. he releases lynette, moves back to the workbench. with a glance at freminet for permission, he picks up the crimson penguin. it fits in his hand, which makes it easy to palm. it’s light, durable, with bright eyes and moving flaps. it’s hollow on the inside, so he could hide something in there. it’s obvious that it was designed for a magician, full of possibility and marvel.

“can i help you finish them?”

freminet pauses, hesitant. when he nods, the corners of his lips curve into a smile. “of course.”

“me, too.” lynette joins them in the light, peering over their older brother’s shoulder.

“yes. i’ll tell you what else we need to do.”

one by one, they pick up a penguin, a tool, and get to work, guided by freminet, to improve the outer design and functionality. lyney pushes the curtains aside, breathes in the afternoon air. he glances over his shoulder. “why don’t we take this to the living room? there’s more space there, and it’s brighter.”

it’s back to routine, accompanied by cups of tea and laughter. lyney smiles as they work, chirping back replies and diligently following instructions. his smile never fades.

and he hopes to keep his siblings close for as long as he can.

[daisyrb-gvf]

Cruising Into Love-Part 2

d.r.w. x f!reader

I'm so excited to be posting this so soon after the first chapter! The third may take a while longer, but this story is just pouring out of me.

Words: 4.6k

Summary: On a solo adventure to the waterfalls of the Bahamas, you run into Danny, off on an adventure of his own.

Warnings: language, cheesy sibling love, hot and heavy make out, that's pretty much it for this one

“Danny…Danny….DANIEL, HELLO!?” Josie leans across the table, waving her hand in front of Danny’s face, snapping him out of his daydream. “I’m attempting to have an enjoyable lunch with my big brother,” she jokes, taking a bite of pineapple. 

“I’m sorry, sis. I think that run must have tired me out,” Danny replies, “What’s up?” 

Josie chuckles, looking down at her plate, absent-mindedly moving some lettuce around with her fork. “Yeah I bet so.” She flicks her eyes up to Danny before stabbing another piece of fruit. 

“What do you mean?” Danny asks, trying to put on his best confused expression. 

Josie gives him a knowing stare, boring her eyes through him, “You can fool mom and dad, and-if you’re really good-you can maybe even fool Sam, but you know you cannot fool me.” 

“Jos, I really don–” Danny cuts himself off, knowing the attempt is futile. She’s right. Everyone thinks your brothers-especially Sam-know you best, and while they are very close, no one knows you like your little sister. “Okay, fine. I’ll admit she may have gotten me a little distracted. I’m sorry. I’m here now. What were you saying?” 

“Oh, nothing important. Let’s talk about this girl!” Josie gushes as she pushes her plate aside, resting her elbows on the table and propping her chin up with two little fists. 

Danny chuckles and sighs, crossing his arms as he leans back in his chair. He glances out at the ocean through the floor-to-ceiling glass window next to the table. His lip twitches up into a little smirk that he tries to hide from his eager (and nosey) little sister. “I mean…you’ve seen her basically as much as I have, with the exception of our run, and it’s not like we were talking during that. There’s no way I could have. She is fast.” He cracks a smile and picks up his glass of water, the condensation cool and wet on his calloused fingertips. 

“You seemed to be having a nice little conversation with her before I came out there,” she replies kindly, not wanting to sound accusatory. 

“We only talked for a couple of minutes, and it was really just small talk. I don’t even think she’s told us her name,” he chuckles.

“It’s y/n,” Josie replies, matter-of-factly. 

“Yeah, I know, but only from the cruise itinerary,” Danny says as he steals a strawberry from Josie’s plate. 

“Come on, dude! The buffet is right there. Go get your own food!” 

“You just pushed your plate away! I didn’t want it to go to waste. What would Sam say?” he asks, feigning offense as he plucks another strawberry from her plate. 

Josie rolls her eyes, “Clearly, the girl is flustered around you. Give her a break, and maybe she assumes you know her name because of the itinerary. Did you consider that?” 

“Okay, I hear you,” Danny says, putting his hands up in defense. “All I’m saying is, I hardly know anything about the girl, other than the fact that she could probably kick my ass in a foot race and she is a talented musician.” 

“Oh, yeah. No big deal. Just two qualities you would love in a woman,” Josie replies sarcastically, kicking his shin gently under the table and grinning. 

“Sis, we are on this boat for seven more days, and then what? I’m not gonna be the guy that has a week-long fling and just…disappears,” Danny says, before taking another sip of water. 

“Why not?” Josie asks, a genuine curious expression on her face. 

Danny looks surprised by her response. “Because…well, it’s kind of shitty, isn’t it? Getting some girl all blissed out on me and then just leaving?” 

“First of all,” Josie starts, leaning back in her chair, “she’s not the only one who would be getting ‘blissed out’ okay? Clearly, the feeling is mutual there, so don’t be all macho, dude.” 

Danny laughs and rolls his eyes, “You know I didn’t mean it like that.” 

“I know, but your little sis has to make sure you know your place. All the crazy fans out there are gonna give you a big head, so I’m just doing my job,” she smiles proudly, crossing her arms. Danny smiles and softly shakes his head. “Secondly, she works here. She knows that the people she sees for a week or two will likely never cross her path again, so if she seems interested, I’m sure she has that in mind as well.” 

Danny considers for a moment with pause, “...yeah, I suppose so.”

“And lastly-the big one-she doesn’t know who you are.” 

“Wait, how do you know?” 

“Because I heard her ask you what you do as I was walking outside earlier today. She has no clue you’re a rockstar. And that is a huge win for you,” she says with a smile, her big hazel eyes-slightly more green than Danny’s-glinting in the sunlight pouring through the window.

“So, what…do I just lie to her?” Danny asks, shifting in his seat uncomfortably. 

“Of course not, but she doesn’t need all the details. You two can geek out on music and sports and whatever-the-hell other things you undoubtedly have in common, without throwing in ‘oh, by the way, I’m a super famous Grammy-winning rockstar that girls and gays swoon over and write thousands of fanfictions about,” Josie replies, mustering up her best impersonation of her brother.

“Oh, God please don’t remind me of the fanfictions,” Danny buries his face in his hands, his elbows on the table. “You know mom started to read one once?” he laughs. 

Josie giggles uncontrollably, getting a few looks from the family sitting at the table next to them. “Oh, poor mom! Was it at least a sweet one?” she asks between giggles, wiping away a stray tear.

“Definitely not. I heard her talking to Karen about it. ‘Oh, Karen, it was awful! That’s my baby boy!’” Danny mimics his mother before breaking out into a loud belly laugh. 

“Stop! I’m gonna pee my pants!” Josie chokes out between giggles, wiping tears away again.

“Okay, I think we should go,” Danny says in between laughs, glancing over at the family who is clearly getting very irritated with their antics. 

Josie grabs her purse and sweeps her long, brown, wavy hair over her shoulder as they both stand up and make their way out of the restaurant. Danny follows, slipping his phone into the pocket of his khaki shortie shorts. Holding the door open for his sister, she stops and turns to him. 

“You deserve to have a little fun, big brother,” she smiles at him kindly. Danny smiles back as they begin to walk down the hallway. He wraps his strong arm around his sister’s dainty shoulders, giving her a small peck on top of her head. 

“Thanks, sis.” 

“So, since I beat your ass during our run earlier, let’s say we go play some mini golf so I can beat you at that too?”

“You’re on,” Danny replies, ruffling her hair like any annoying big brother would. Josie playfully shoves him before smoothing her hair out

“So, be honest: how many fanfictions about you have you read,” Josie asks, laughing again. Danny stays silent for a minute, his face turning red. “How many?!” she asks again, her eyes widening and jaw dropping in a big smile. 

“Just a few,” he purses his lips, trying to hold back a smile. “What about you, sis?”

“Ew. None. You know there’s nothing out there your sister would want to read,” she replies, a disgusted look on her face. 

Danny laughs loudly, “That’s a good point, but what about the Kiszkas, huh?” He wiggles his eyebrows and smirks. 

‘........just a few.” 

They both laugh loudly as they head into the elevator, making their way to the top deck. 

– – –

The sun beats down on your skin as you stretch out in the little parachute hammock you hung at the bow of the ship-one of the few places the guests can’t access. The boat is being docked and you can hear the bustle of people anxious to get to their excursions and shopping sprees. You debate on going out for a little excursion of your own once the ship starts to empty out. You love Nassau, and you are dying to explore that hidden trail again that leads up to the waterfalls. You decide to go have a little adventure, so you pack up your hammock and head back to your bunk to put on your hiking shorts, tank top, and Chacos. Once the bulk of guests have funneled off the ship, you head out and hop on one of the shuttles into town. Getting off at the last stop by the trails, you follow a group of people through the trees. You know that there is a fork in the trail that the excursionists take a right on. Once you reach it, you make a left and start the hike on your own. Some tourists have taken the trail before, but once they reach a dead end they turn around. You, however, explored your way through the trees for about another half mile last year and found a small little swimming hole with a waterfall flowing down into it. It felt like your own secret spot. A reprieve from the constant bustle of people and tiny bunk that you have to share. 

As you meander through the trees and brush, you take in the sights and sounds around you. Lush, bright green trees and bushes of all types, little patches of flowers sprouting up every few feet. The mossy, soft ground padding your footsteps. You stop for a moment and close your eyes, inhaling deeply, enjoying the sounds of birds singing and bugs chirping. The smell of the vegetation and the distant ocean overtaking your senses. You smile and increase your pace once you hear the low rumble of the waterfall. Almost there. The cool mist sprays against your sweat-dampened skin, offering relief from your slightly difficult climb. You start to make your way down to the little shore area, but stop in your tracks when you hear a splash in the water. Slowly, stealthily inching forward, you peek behind a tree to see who could have found your secret spot. Your stomach sinks for a moment, sad that you’ve lost what you thought was just yours, and hoping it’s just a skilled explorer on vacation. After a moment, the culprit emerges from the crystal clear water. 

Mess of curls, sopping wet and sticking to his sculpted cheeks, water dripping down his broad, tanned shoulders and defined pecs and abs. Your jaw drops when you see him run his hands through his hair, pushing it away from his face and closing his eyes as he tips his head back, feeling the sun’s heat wash over him after the cool dip. You can see each muscle in his arms, shoulders, and torso flex with his movements and your breathing intensifies as your eyes roam, hungry to take in as much of this Adonis-looking man as possible, taking mental pictures to commit to memory. The smattering of hair on his chest and just below his belly button look oh so enticing. You lick your lips, eyes hooded as he turns around. His shoulders flex and move and you can see the definition in his triceps as he extends his arms out to either side, as if he is welcoming nature to envelope him completely. His entire body glistens in the sun, emphasizing every detail that’s making you weak in the knees. You start to feel a little creepy ogling him like this without him knowing, but you are having a hard time tearing your eyes away, especially as you feel your swimsuit bottoms dampening from the sight of him. You force yourself to turn around, frustrated that your personal nirvana has been taken from you, and even more frustrated that you know you won’t be able to focus on anything else but the way his wet, toned body looks for weeks. 

“Do you want to join me, or would you prefer to just enjoy the view,” Danny calls out as he turns around and smirks in your direction. 

You stop in your tracks, eyes getting wide as your whole body flushes from embarrassment. Well, you’ve been caught, and it would probably be creepier to run away, so instead you slowly turn around. 

“Oh, um…I…I just got here a minute ago…I thought no one else knew about this place, so I was..uh, just…surprised.” Your face is beet red and you’re awkwardly fidgeting with your hands. You drop your backpack so you have something to busy them with, even if just for a moment. 

He chuckles and glances down for a moment. He seems a little shy, surprisingly. He sounded so confident with his invitation. 

“So…what do you say? Want to join me? The water feels amazing.” He sinks further down and slowly tips his head back, feeling the cool water tickling his scalp inch by inch.

You did come all this way, and you suppose there’s no reason not to enjoy it, even if it isn’t what you expected. You would also be lying to yourself if you said you weren’t aching to get closer to him, seeing his wet body in all its glory gleaming in the sun up close. You kick off your sandals and slowly peel off your tank top and shorts, revealing your hot pink string bikini underneath. You swear you see his eyes darken a bit as he gazes at you, but it’s hard to tell with the distance between you two. You’ve always felt comfortable and confident with your body, but suddenly you feel very vulnerable and exposed. You muster up a weak smile as you slowly walk toward him, dipping your toe in the water. It’s a shock to the system after sweating in the humid heat during your hike. A shiver runs through your spine, and you're not sure if it’s from the cold water, or the man walking toward you, the water receding down his body with each step. He offers his hand to help you over the slightly rocky shore, as you gingerly step in. You breathe out a quick puff of air, sinking further into the water as he walks backward. Your nipples harden as the water reaches them, and you notice Danny’s gaze move to them for just a moment. God, he is just so beautiful. His sun-kissed face is practically glowing, emphasizing his features. You get a better look at his boyish freckles dusted over his cheeks and perfect, sharp nose-a slight curve at the end of it. His eyes are a lighter hue in the sunlight, and a few droplets of water drip down his face, one drop catching on his long, dark lashes. He blinks it away, and you notice a rogue little freckle just under his right eye. You suddenly have the urge to kiss it softly, causing you to look away in embarrassment. Once you’re both fully immersed in the water he releases your hand and moves to his back, floating peacefully as he closes his eyes. 

“So, you’ve been here before?” he asks, eyes still closed, looking so peaceful and happy in this moment. 

You bob in the water, using this opportunity to drink him in some more while his eyes are closed. The water ebbs and flows across his hard, yet impossibly soft-looking chest and stomach, a little pool of liquid settling in his belly button. You notice he has those little yellow shorts on again. The water lapping against his legs causes his shorts to alternate between flowing around him and sticking to his legs, showing off his muscle definition. He must run every day to get muscles like that. 

Snapping yourself out of it, you reply, “Yeah quite a few times, actually. I thought I was the only one who knew about this place. Have you been here before? I’m not even sure most of the locals know about it.”

“No, I haven’t, but I like to explore, and I have a pretty good sense of direction. I just headed the same general direction that I knew the falls were at, and eventually found my way. Once I heard the water, I just followed the sound. How did you find it?” 

“Actually, the exact same way,” you chuckle, moving onto your back as well, floating next to him. 

Your hands brush together for a moment, the water pulling you closer together. The electricity that ran through your body caused your eyes to widen in surprise. 

Danny feels that same electricity. If he is being honest, he felt it the moment he realized you were watching him from behind the trees. He never thought of himself as an exhibitionist, but he just couldn’t help showing off what you were clearly enjoying. Plus, he hoped it would entice you to stay. Imagining seeing you in a little bikini he hoped you were sporting made his blood run hot through his veins and surge down to his groin. Actually seeing it made him very glad you were in cold water. 

“Are you disappointed?” Danny asked after a moment. 

You looked over in surprise and he returned your gaze. “Why would I be disappointed?”

“That I found your spot. I assume you staked a claim since you said you didn’t know anyone else knew about it, and if you’ve been here several times with no one knowing about it, you probably decided to keep it to yourself. So…are you disappointed?” 

You stay silent for a moment, because you did feel disappointment…at first. But now, you feel content sharing it with him. “No. I’m not disappointed at all,” you reply with a soft smile. 

“Good!” he responds cheerily, popping up to swim a few laps around the small pool. 

You giggle as the water splashes you before dipping under, washing away the sweat (and probably dirt) from your face. Popping back up, you run your hands over your eyes and through your hair, smoothing it back and away from your face. You open your eyes and catch Danny staring. A smirk forms on your face when you think about the role reversal. Danny doesn’t look away this time. Instead he slowly swims closer to you, keeping eye contact as his body floats mere inches from yours. 

“Wanna play?” he asks, his lips curling up into a boyish smile that takes your breath away. 

“Play?” you ask breathlessly, matching his grin. 

“Yeah,” he grins wider, flashing those bright white teeth. 

You giggle, heart racing over how adorable he is. “What, like Marco Polo or something, or were you thinking mermaids?” you laugh. 

“Both sound fun,” he chuckles, “but I say Marco Polo. I’ll go first!”

He looks so excited that it makes your heart ache. It seems so silly, but why not? Who says two 20-something year olds can’t play Marco Polo and have fun like kids get to? 

“Okay yeah! Let’s do it!” you giggle and wait for him to close his eyes. 

“1…2…3…” he starts to count. 

“Wait!” you stop him, “What are we counting to?” 

“Hmmm, it’s a pretty small swimming hole. Let’s say 10. Sound good?” 

“Yeah! Okay, start over,” you giggle again. You haven’t giggled like this in longer than you can remember. You push away a tiny pang of sadness, realizing how truly lonely you’ve been. 

“Okay,” he grins again, starting back up, “1…2…”

You dip under the water and swim as silently as possible to the little overhang next to the falls- almost like a shallow cave- trying not to giggle in anticipation. 

“9…10! Marco!” he calls out, swimming around excitedly. God, it must be nice to still hold on to that child-like excitement over a little game like this. 

“Polo!” you call out, hoping the sound of the falls throws off your location. 

He swims in the opposite direction and you throw your hand over your mouth, trying not to giggle. You’re so giggly right now. It feels foreign, but so nice. 

“Marco!” he calls out again from further away. 

“Polo!” 

He starts to swim in your direction and you feel the same anxious excitement you did as a kid, playing in your parents’ pool with your cousins. 

“Marco!”

“Polo” you call out as quietly as possible so he can barely hear you. 

“Hey, that’s not fair! You’re cheating!” he complains, but his grin tells you he’s still having a blast. 

You want to argue with him, but you stay silent, not wanting to give away your position, especially since he is getting dangerously close. He approaches you, under the overhang where it’s much quieter and has an echo. 

“Marco!” he calls out, a small look of shock on his face, not realizing where he is. 

“Polo,” you say softly. 

He darts toward you and you squeal, swimming away. He catches your foot and you laugh loudly, trying to swim away from him. 

“Gotcha!” he exclaims, opening his eyes. 

Danny’s breath is almost taken away seeing the way your grin lights up your whole face. Pure joy. You’ve only looked nervous or out of breath around him so far. He already thought you were beautiful, but that look…the way you bit your bottom lip and giggled as you looked at him. He can’t look away. He swims closer to you, inches away again. 

“Your turn.” His voice is low and barely above a whisper. Your breath catches and your eyes roam across his chest and shoulders, settling on his neck-droplets of water slowly gliding down over and around his Adam’s apple, like yesterday, but today it is so much more enticing being alone and secluded with him. 

“Okay,” you breathe, slowly swimming back to the center of the pool. “You ready?” you call out once you reach your destination. 

“Yeah!” 

“Alright, 1…2…3…” you count to 10 immediately yelling, “Marco!”

“Polo!” His voice is like velvet, and it makes it hard to focus. He’s actually really well-spoken, now that you think about it. He enunciates well, more so than most men his age, and his pitch isn’t low, but the timbre of his voice is. It makes you wonder what he would sound like speaking softly in your ear.

You shake yourself out of your daydream, swim toward the sound and call out again, “Marco!” 

“Polo!”

He sounds a lot closer now, and you’re surprised he’s not trying to be quieter. 

“Marco!” You swim closer to the falls, the spray hitting your face. 

“Polo,” he says quietly, but only because it sounds like he is right next to you. 

“Marco,” you say softly, reaching out and feeling the water falling onto your hand. 

“Polo,” he whispers. You can feel his hot breath inches from your face. 

You touch his chest and open your eyes. The water from the falls assaults his back as he leans in, his lips so close you can already feel them. You suck in a breath, looking down at his lips…so soft and supple and oh so inviting. You place your other hand on his chest, feeling it rise and fall with each breath, his skin so warm and soft, the muscles firm under your fingertips. Just how you imagined. 

“Can I kiss you, y/n” he whispers, his lips so close that they brush yours when he says your name. 

“Yes,” you breathe, running your hands up to his shoulders. You're so eager and dying to claw at his shoulders, latch onto his lips and steal the breath from his lungs, but you let him take the reins. 

He moves in slowly, so slowly you don’t even know how it’s possible considering how little space there is between you already. You feel your hardened nipples rub against his chest, and you feel hot to your core. You want to devour him. He finally locks his lips with yours, softly. Oh so softly. You let out a small whimper. He tastes so much better than you could have dreamed. His lips are warm and gentle and they mold perfectly with yours. He settles one hand on your hip under the water, and caresses your back with the other. It feels so intimate that your heart aches. You glide your hands around his shoulders to his back, one settling there while the other moves up and snakes through his wet curls. Your lips intertwine in a perfectly choreographed dance. You still feel the urgency to taste more of him, but God this feels so good-savoring one another. He introduces his tongue, lightly brushing it against your lower lip, and you happily welcome it, opening your mouth and softly licking back, your tongues now entering this slow dance. He pulls you flush with his body and you gasp, feeling his groin against your heat. He’s already getting hard, and you relish in it. You wrap your arms tightly around his shoulders as he wraps your legs around his waist, both of you still bobbing in the water and giggling when you move toward the falls, the water breaking your kiss. You both swim back over a couple of feet, not leaving your embrace. You take over, gripping his shoulder and kissing him deeply, moaning into his mouth. He whimpers softly-a sound that you will most definitely be committing to memory-and runs his hand through your hair, holding you steady as he pulls back from the kiss for a moment. 

“I…I need just a minute,” he says with a small laugh. 

“Oh, I’m so sorry!” you say, embarrassed as you pull away. 

“No! God, no, please don’t leave.” He gently pulls you back to him and wraps his arms around you, caressing your back again. “I just…if I don’t stop now…Well, I don’t know how I’ll be able to hold back,” he confesses, looking down shyly. God, your heart is aching for this man you barely know. 

“It’s okay,” you breathe, gently guiding his chin up with your knuckle. “We should probably head out soon anyway. It looks like an afternoon storm is rolling in.” You both glance up at the sky and see dark gray clouds forming overhead. 

“Yeah…I guess we should,” he says, sounding disappointed, but somehow relieved at the same time. “Plus, you have a performance tonight, right?” he asks. 

“Yeah, I do,” you reply with a small smile, looking intrigued. “You looked for me on the itinerary?”

He looks down again shyly. It’s so cute how nervous he is right now. You thought he was just so confident and sure of himself before. “Yeah, I did. Josie and I thought maybe we would bring our parents tonight. They would love it.” 

“That’s sweet,” you smile. “I would love to see you there again. Any requests?”

“Anything by Elton John,” he replies as you both start to swim to shore. 

“That, I can definitely do,” you giggle again as you both step out. 

Pulling towels from your respective backpacks, you dry off quickly before throwing on your clothes and shoes. Pulling on your packs, you make your way to the trail. 

“I hope we can beat the storm,” you say, worriedly. 

“Wanna race?” he asks, flashing that adorable grin again. 

You laugh and dart off in front of him, before he catches up to you, grabbing you by the waist and tickling you to slow you down. 

“Cheater!” you accuse, laughing loudly as you run after him, a smile taking over your whole face. A smile you hadn’t felt in such a long time.

Again...I'm a slow-burner! More spice and sibling love in chapter 3!

Go to Chapter 3

@spark-my-nature @dazeebean @smoking-jakelane @dogwood-blossom

[gingerjunhan]

was rereading some of your work last night because i <3 it...and would love to see you elaborate on how gunil can get jealous.. maybe some angst and fluff ;-)

☆彡the evil laugh that left my body upon seeing this request… I’m here for it >:) (also you all should go follow them bc nothing but love for my mooties mwah mwah 💋)

word count: 909 | pronouns used: none | genre: angst w/ fluffy ending | established relationship | cws: jealousy, swearing, Gunil is a bit of an asshole, public argument, Gunil is insecure, lmk if I missed anything!

Gunil wasn’t typically the type to get jealous, but when he saw the way your friend was gawking at you while you and Gunil were out to dinner, he couldn’t help but feel one of his eyes twitch.

The guy you’ve been talking to for the past couple of minutes was clearly trying to impress you, and it looked like he was doing a good job. The two of you had been laughing and talking together while Gunil stood a few feet away. Management had called, so he quickly needed to excuse himself to answer. While he was gone, Gunil watched from a distance as your friend found his way over to you. The words from the phone call quickly got drowned out as Gunil watched you laugh again, reaching out and bracing yourself on your friend's bicep.

Oh hell no.

“Hey, can I call you back? Awesome, thanks.” Gunil quickly hung up before he could get an answer, beelining for you back at your table. Once making his return, Gunil tried his best to remain calm. You smiled at the sight of him.

“Oh my gosh, here he is!” You beamed. “This is my boyfriend, Gunil.”

Your friend stuck out a hand to shake. “Hey man, it’s nice to meet out. I’ve heard so much about you.”

Gunil shook his hand, followed with a sarcastic, “I’m sure you have.” Once Gunil pulled his hand away, he reached across the table and took one of your hands in his.

“(Y/N) told me you’re in a band, right? That's pretty cool,” your friend continues with a smile. “Are you guys any good?”

“We’ve won some awards,” Gunil boasted, puffing his chest out slightly. “I did go to Berklee so… y’know,” he shrugged. Gunil was staring daggers at this guy, and it was obvious to everybody else that Gunil thought he’d overstayed his welcome. Luckily, your waitress started to make her way to your table.

“Oh! There’s our waitress,” you said awkwardly, trying to sound polite. Your friend chuckled, returning the awkward tone.

“I’ll let you two get back to your dinner. See you around, (Y/N).” Your friend waved at you and you returned the favor. He then turned to Gunil. “It was nice meeting you.” Before Gunil could answer (not that he wanted to), your friend turned on his heel and walked away, and your waitress arrived.

“What the hell was that?” You asked, slowly turning to Gunil after your waitress left.

“What do you mean?” He asked, genuinely.

You gawked at him. “That! With my friend! You were a total asshole!”

“No, I wasn’t!” He defended.

“Yes, you were!” You were trying to keep your voice down to not cause a scene. “We won some awards,” you mimicked his tone of voice, “I’m sure you’ve heard about me- are you kidding me?”

Gunil put his hands up in defense. “What’s wrong with that?”

“You sounded like an asshole!”

“Well is it wrong to get angry when you see your partner clearly flirting with another guy?”

A beat of silence fell over the table before you spoke up again. “What?”

“Oh, come on,” Gunil leaned back in his seat, crossing his arms. “I saw the way you were touching his arms and laughing with him.”

“Are you serious right now?” You slowly blinked at him across the table, letting your jaw slightly fall slack in surprise.

“Yes, I’m serious,” Gunil stated.

“Um, Earth to Gunil,” you joked, “I literally do that with everybody! You’ve seen me laugh and grab the guys by the arm how many times?”

“Well, this is different.”

“How is it different?”

“Because they aren’t built like that.” Gunil’s confession came spilling from his lips, and another beat of silence fell over the table. His eyes searched your face for a moment before looking away. Gunil took pride in how he looked- he worked hard to get where he is now- but there were still some parts of him that got a little self-conscious.

“Gunil,” you said in a sad voice, your eyes softening. “Hey, look at me.” Gunil looked you in the face again, and you extended your hand towards him across the table. “There’s no need for you to feel that way.”

“I’m sorry,” he apologized while taking your hand. “I-” he took a deep breath, “I don’t know what came over me. I guess I just got a little jealous.”

“It’s alright,” you consoled him. “But, there’s no need for you to feel jealous like that. I’ve known that guy for a really long time, and I can guarantee you that I’ve never had feelings for him, I promise,” you stressed. Gunil nodded, taking another deep breath. “Okay,” he sighed. “Sorry again. I’m sure he’s really nice.”

“If you wanted, I could see if we could do something together sometime. He has a partner. We could maybe go on a double date if you’re comfortable with that?”

Gunil thought about your proposal and nodded again. “That sounds nice. It could give me a chance to apologize.”

You nodded as well. “And it would give you a chance to sweep me off my feet in front of him,” you laughed, trying to make light of the situation with a joke.

“Yeah,” Gunil chuckled now. “That too.” Once your brief laughter died down, you took your joint hands and placed a kiss on his knuckles.

“Feeling better?”

“Much better,” he smiled. “Thank you, sunshine.”

taglist: @dazzlingligth , @mini-mews , @mxlly143 , @somethingaboutcheese , comment to be added!⁎⁺˳✧༚

[blues824]

I'm like kinda new to your blog but I've read a few of your obey me scenarios and I really love them! Especially the scarlet witch! reader! ^^

I heard that requests were open so I was wondering if you could do an hc with the brothers + Diavolo and Barbatos with a Black Widow! Reader? She's one of my fav avengers so I thought of requesting this! <3

Hope you have a good day! :D

Went off the information in Wiki Fandom because there are a multitude of movies. Gender-neutral reader.

Lucifer

You both acted a lot alike: level-headed, almost emotionless, strong-willed, independent, exceedingly intelligent, and sarcastic every once in a while. He knew a lot about you considering he was one of the ones who examined your student profile, and that made you a bit unsettled because you knew next to nothing about him.

He knew of your heroic streak and your avenging nature, and he admired it. He used to be that way, especially for his family. As we all know, he was one of the angels who fought for his sister because he thought God judged her unfairly.

After spending a while in the Devildom, but more specifically within the House of Lamentation, the two of you grew closer. Lucifer genuinely liked having conversations with you, spending hours sipping on glasses of demonus just reveling in your company.

Eventually, those short drinking sessions ended up in you telling him about your time in the Red Room, being trained to be the best and most dangerous operative. He’s quite impressed with your skillset, but he is a big angry that you were put through that pain and suffering.

Speaking of being impressed by your abilities, he’s glad that you are able to defend yourself. Unfortunately, he is still worried about you, so he insists upon walking with you everywhere (also so none of his brothers steal you away from him).

Mammon

He was most definitely intimidated by you because you acted just like Lucifer did. However, he got to see your more sarcastic side, and now you target him a lot… especially when he’s been particularly stupid. He liked it when you targeted others, just not him.

Mammon got a glimpse of your heroic side whenever Lucifer went to string him up from the chandelier using the WiFi cable. You argued in his place, stating that like everyone else he couldn’t control his sin. Therefore, everyone should be punished if they indulged in their sin.

Honestly, you became his favorite person because you always defended him. You both spent a lot of time together because he grew attached. He tried to disguise it as ‘making sure you were safe’, but you were fairly certain that cuddling in his bed wasn’t exactly protecting you.

During one of these cuddling sessions, you told him how you went through the Red Room when you were younger just to be trained to be the best operative out there and how you were a danger to a lot of people. He was angry, but he just held you close, hands shaking in rage.

You decided to maintain your abilities by going to training, and Mammon sometimes took you because he didn’t want you getting abducted on the street. He saw you absolutely beat the shit out of your trainer, and he spat out his drink in surprise. How in the actual f- could you do that??

Leviathan

You reminded him of one of the main characters in the comic book series that was popular within the Devildom, and you intimidated him like that character did. However, it’s not like how Mammon feels. Levi just thinks you’re so freaking cool that he can’t help but feel scared.

You even acted like her, and that solidified his admiration for you and the character. You were brave, heroic, level-headed, everything he aspired to be. Whenever he looked at you, he had both stars and hearts in his eyes, and you had to admit that it was absolutely adorable.

Mans basically worshiped the ground you walked on. He would set his jacket down just so you wouldn’t have to get your shoes filthy. He is a simp. However, this does make you a bit unsettled because you are used to being attacked constantly rather than worshiped.

Levi loved hanging out with you in his room because you always had interesting stories about your life. However, this time was different because you decided that you’ve gotten to a point in your relationship where you could tell him about the Red Room. As you told him, he gripped his controller so hard that it snapped in half.

His tail whipped out and wrapped itself around your waist, pulling you closer as he held onto you. Sure, your skills and abilities because of the severe training you went through were cool, but it all came at what cost? Even he, as the general of Hell’s Navy, wouldn’t put soldiers through that.

Satan

You acted like him as well, especially with the sarcasm directed towards everyone else, and he doesn’t mind if it’s targeted at him as long as you’re the only one. He finds it amusing since no human besides you and Solomon has had the courage to have a witty battle against him.

He experienced your heroic side when a random demon compared him to Lucifer, and you defended him saying that the two are completely different from each other. He appreciated the sentiment, and the fact that his beloved was so willing to fight for his honor.

I think the two of you always have long conversations about anything that comes to mind. It allows the both of you to learn more about each other, which establishes a closer connection in addition to solidifying the relationship you both already have. 

It was during one of these conversations that you told him about the Red Room. He was shocked that you had to suffer that training, in addition to being beyond angry. You had to hold his hand in yours to bring him back to the present and prevent him from destroying the room.

Sure, your skillset was very impressive, but you had to go through genuine torture just to get those abilities. The Wrath within him is for once righteous and avenging, and he could feel it surging through his body. However, he would hold back for your sake.

Asmodeus

You were very interesting because you were also a bit flirtatious, but also very level-headed when need be. He loved your quick comebacks as they were hilarious to him. Especially if they were directed at either of his two oldest brothers.

He got to see your heroic side when Mammon stole something of Asmo’s to sell, and you used your spy skills to quietly enter the former’s room, steal back the item, and return it to Asmo. The older brother was angry, but backed off once you threatened him with telling Lucifer about what he had done.

The two of you enjoy talking to each other while doing skincare. Be it gossip, an article you read in the news, a post either of you saw on Devilgram, etc. he loved talking to you. You listened and you contributed actually good input and opinions.

One of these little sessions between the two of you led to you telling him about the Red Room, and he was angry that you had to go through that. He held you in his arms as you recounted the traumatic events that happened in your life.

Asmo considered gathering his brothers to go attack the Red Room, but decided against it as it would go against Diavolo’s wishes for a union between the three realms. After all, who would be there for you when you went through flashbacks if he was locked away due to going against His Highness?

Beelzebub

You reminded him of Lucifer, aside from your more flirtatious side. Many times, he spit out the food that he was eating out of pure shock whenever you said something sarcastic towards any of them because he thought that they were way more powerful than you.

As for your heroic side, he saw it when you defended him after he emptied the fridge. You told everyone that he couldn’t control his sin just as either of them couldn’t either, and therefore he shouldn’t be scolded due to the hypocrisy going on.

The two of you loved cuddling sessions once you got more comfortable around him, since they allowed just a bit more closeness between the two of you. You talked about pretty much anything there was to talk about, which led to one fateful day.

It was one of those days where you both were just laying in his bed, talking about what his life was like when he was a young angel playing with Belphie and Lilith, when he asked about your childhood. You let out a deep sigh before telling him about the Red Room and the training you went through in there.

Oh, he was madder than a bull is at a bullfighter. You felt his hold around your waist tighten, but he was careful enough not to hurt you. How could those evil people harm someone as great as you? He couldn’t begin to comprehend the anger that was bubbling up within him. Is this how Satan always felt?

Belphegor

He didn’t like you at first, until you brought out your sarcasm. That was probably when he fell in love: Lucifer was scolding one of his brothers for indulging in their sin when you told him off for indulging in his constantly without punishment as a consequence.

Mans was just about on his knee with a ring, and he hadn’t even known you that long. Ever since then, he was in love (which was a bit out of character for him, but you weren’t afraid to say what you said to Lucifer, the eldest and most powerful of the Avatars).

You both also loved cuddling sessions, but he was able to see your past through your dream. You were having a flashback in your nightmare, and he could sense you moving around and being restless. So, he used his power to see your dream, and what he saw made him angry.

You shouldn’t have had to go through that unwillingly just to become the best agent. Didn’t they know that you were human? Plus, the graduation process seemed absolutely heartbreaking. He was angry, but he knew you would need a good night’s rest, so he used his powers to put you into a more peaceful sleep.

Oh, but he didn’t forget. No, this just reinforced his original thoughts about humanity and their flaws. However, you were an exception. He thought you belonged with the angels; you certainly sacrificed enough to get to the Celestial Realm.

Diavolo

You were his opposite. He was friendly and compassionate (unless the situation called for a serious attitude), and you were always level-headed and cold (but also sarcastic). But, as we all are aware, opposites attract. You were his anchor, and he was your freedom.

He first witnessed your heroic side when you helped him with his paperwork. You read it over and it was a proposal that would benefit the Devildom financially, but it would make budget cuts on the education system. You pointed it out to Diavolo, and he was shocked that someone would worry about money rather than the children being affected. 

Diavolo loved spending time with you, not doing paperwork. He especially loved having tea time with you since it allows him to get to know you more. He already knew about your training from a place called the Red Room, so he thought about asking you about it. The shocked look on your face made him regret asking, but you insisted it was fine.

You told him about the exact training you went through and how it allowed you to be the agent that you are today. You even went as far as telling him about the… unique graduation process. He was devastated, he was angry, he couldn’t even figure out how he was feeling.

What he did know was that he was gonna get that place shut down if it’s the last thing he ever does in his very long life. It didn’t take too much either, considering he was very powerful even in the human world. A few threats and using his demon form to intimidate them was enough, since not even the recruits could come close to beating him.

Barbatos

You both acted pretty much the same, except he was a tad more cordial rather than sarcastic and witty. Although, lighthearted banter wasn’t uncommon between the two of you. It was how you expressed your love for him at the beginning.

As you got more comfortable within the Devildom, you got more comfortable with Barbatos. You were his ‘hero’ because you often helped him with his many chores. It wasn’t much, but it did take a bit of the load off of his shoulders.

Now, this was how you both typically spent time with each other. You would do chores within the same room so that the two of you can still talk to each other. You learned that Barbatos had been the servant of Diavolo since the latter was a child, and that was adorable to you.

When he asked about your past, you stopped wiping the counter. The butler apologized for overstepping any boundaries, but you said it was fine. So, you explained what you had gone through in the Red Room. Barbatos had to stop himself from breaking one of the plates he was drying because he was angry.

He was angry that his beloved Y/N had to suffer through that just so you could be used as a top-tier spy. He later told Diavolo about it, and the next day the facility was shut down for unknown reasons. You figured out that your lovely demon had something to do with it, but you didn’t mind since it meant that no one else had to suffer the way that you did.

[teshadraws]

Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Seekers of Soul

[Chapter 48]

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-

Nia and Tobias reach Shivergleam. However, they may not be ready for the information Edme has to offer.

-

Nia kicks her legs over the side of the boat, tucked securely against the railing. Evening sunlight is filtered weakly through cloud cover, but still warm on her back. The river below her is as swift and swollen as it has been the whole trip, rocking the ferry in uneven motions, but she finds it oddly soothing.

Her curious eyes are trained on the crew working to navigate the dangerous waters. Beck and Nori are swimming ahead of the ferry, sleek flashes of orange and blue weaving back and forth to check for underwater obstructions that could hinder their travel. Occasionally, Nia sees the two Pokemon work together to push a downed tree aside and clear the way.

The captain, Cordelia, is steering them slowly through the treacherous waters, staying to the outside of the river to keep to deeper channels. Well, at least that’s what Cas said she was doing when Nia talked to him earlier. The little duck clearly admires the brash crocodile, and proudly answers all of Nia’s questions about the ferry and how it’s run. Since they’ve been riding for a little over a day now, they’re finally nearing their destination of Shivergleam, at least according to Beck when he was on break earlier.

Nia has honestly enjoyed their trip downstream. Traveling by boat is new and exciting, and she loves watching the crew work around one another like a well-oiled machine. And last night when they’d had to stop as darkness set in, Nia had enjoyed getting to talk to the crew over supper.

Cordelia is a bit brash, but it’s clear she loves her job and her crew—plus, she tells one heck of a story. Nori the golduck, on the other hand, rarely speaks, instead communicating in dry looks. Cas seems more like a little cousin tagalong than an actual crewmate, too young to do much heavy lifting, but the rest of the boatsmon clearly love having him around. Even Ignatius, the quiet, sarcastic old torkoal is grounding in his own way.

While none of the crew have been unwelcoming, Beck the floatzel has been Nia’s favorite to get to know. The older Pokemon is clearly the most sociable of the bunch, asking Nia and Tobias about where they’re from and where they’re heading with genuine interest. When Nia had mentioned the Lexym Guild, the weasel’s brows had lifted. He’d explained with a smile that the guild is just a bit west of his own home, where his wife and daughter live taking care of his grandkids.

“I’m a bit of a wanderer,” Beck had explained as he helped himself to a second bowl of stew. “My heart always leads me back home, but I wouldn’t be happy staying in one place. This job gives me the chance to travel without leaving my family for too long.”

Nia likes the older man’s demeanor. It’s warm, friendly but calming. His surprisingly deep voice is nice to listen to, and Nia is endeared by how fondly he mentions his family.

Nia liked him even more after the weather was mentioned and Ignatius made a sarcastic comment about humans that made Nia freeze and Tobias glare. Beck was the first to scoff, whipping the turtle playfully with his twin tails. There was no real fire behind the torkoal’s words or the floatzel’s gesture, but Beck had cast Nia and Tobias a concerned look regardless.

“Sorry. Natius doesn’t have the best sense of humor. We know the humans have nothing to do with the weather being out of sorts.”

Cordelia had snorted, slamming her drink down on the table. “I wish humans were the problem. They’d be a lot easier to corral than the gods apparently seeing fit to dump rain across the whole region.”

Nia and Tobias had relaxed, and Nia couldn’t help the way she immediately grew fond of the ragtag little group.

Now, nearing their destination, Nia feels a familiar sting in her heart. She’s only known the crew for a day, but she hates that they have to part so soon. Tobias likes to tease her about how quickly she gets attached to people, but she can’t help it! She thinks she vaguely remembers her mom telling her she had a heart too big for her body. Tobias would likely say she’s got a heart too big for her brain.

Tobias.

Nia frowns, absentmindedly looking into the reflections in the river’s surface for a sign of Giratina. She hasn’t seen the banished legendary since the tunnels, though that doesn’t mean he isn’t there.

It’s not enough to distract her from thinking about her partner. About how they’d found one of his family’s killers, only to find him too late. About the family the crobat had left behind. About Tobias’ grief, a relentless sort of sorrow she’d never had to face so head-on before. It’d been so powerful she’d sworn she could feel it herself, at times.

And she tries not to think of Tobias’ voice on their ride over. The way his words choked as he mentioned her leaving for the human world.

Nia swallows against a lump in her throat and closes her eyes. She leans her head forward to bump against the railing, listening to the loud, constant rush of the river.

She’s leaving, once Will or somebody else finds them a way home. She has to. Every time she thinks of Clay’s bright grin or her Mom’s tight hugs or Toni’s laughter her chest feels like it’s going to cave in on itself. She knows it’s not an option to not go back.

But she let herself get attached. Of course she did. And now she has Tobias. Tobias and Maggie and Xander and Andyn and Val and Avery and—

Tears burn at Nia’s eyes, so she takes a deep breath, letting it out slow. She opens her eyes again to watch as Cordelia slows the ferry. Debris is floating on top of the water, and Nori and Beck get to work clearing it with experienced hands. It only takes a glimpse for Nia to recognize what it is, after seeing multiple sites like this.

It was a home, once. Likely a lovely one set up right off the riverside. But the flooding has washed it away, right off its foundations. Hopefully not with a family inside.

Nia feels her chest tighten even further. She can’t stay here, but she also can’t imagine just…going back to her old human life, like nothing ever happened. How can she just leave behind all of the people she’s met in this world? Especially knowing that mystery dungeons and natural disasters like this are slowly ramping up in severity. She would feel like she was abandoning them.

She’d mentioned a way to go back and forth between worlds out of nothing more than desperation, but now she’s thinking it might be the only way she could actually handle it. You can’t just give up an entire 18 years’ worth of life and the family you love. But you also can’t live in an incredible, magical world for months—has it really been months already?—and form a whole new support system only to leave. Not without tearing out a part of your soul in the process, at least.

She doesn’t have an answer for her situation. And that worries her.

Beck chooses that moment to call out to Nia. She lifts her head, thankful for the interruption.

The orange weasel—a floatzel, Tobias had said, and the species had rang a bell in her head for some reason—is bobbing in the water below her. “We’ll be pulling into the branch leading to Shivergleam soon. You might want to grab your partner.”

Nia thanks the water type before getting up and heading inside the cabin. She takes the path downstairs into the belly of the proverbial beast, knocking on the heavy door to the furnace room before nudging her way inside.

As it has been every time Nia has checked on Tobias, the room is sweltering. Dim orange light bounces off the metallic walls. Ignatius the torkoal gives her a passing glance before continuing his work keeping the steam engine running. He takes a bite of coal, crunching it loudly in his mouth. The flames inside his shell flare, almost bright enough to hurt Nia’s eyes, and the torkoal spews a cloud of steam and embers into the pipes of the steam engine.

Tobias is sitting nearby, crunching idly on his own piece of coal and flipping through a manual for the ship. Nia doesn’t know why being down here puts him so much more at ease, but he’s relaxed as he waves casually to Nia in greeting.

It’s a bit loud with the whoosh of the flames and the rumbling of the ship and engine so close, so Nia nearly has to yell to be heard. “Beck says we’re getting close and should prepare to dock!”

Tobias perks up. With all the rain they’ve been dealing with, he hadn’t gotten to go onto dry land yesterday evening when they’d docked for the night. Nia knows he’s been eager to get back to solid ground from the moment they stepped onboard The Aqua Jet.

Tobias gives Ignatius a nod of parting and grabs a piece of charcoal to go. Then he follows Nia back to the stairs. As she leads them back to the upper floor and out on deck, Nia sneaks a few glances at Tobias crunching into the little black mineral.

“I still can’t believe you can just…eat coal.”

Tobias shrugs, catching some crumbs before they fall. “I couldn’t live off of it, but it’s nice. Stokes my fire a bit. Got a good crunch to it.”

Nia stares at the charcoal with a furrowed brow as they reach the railing on deck. “Does it…taste good?”

Tobias makes a so-so motion with his hand, then holds it out to her with a smirk. “Wanna try?”

He probably expects her to recoil, but she can’t deny that she’s curious. She takes the charcoal and gives it a sniff, wrinkling her nose. Then, she licks the little stone.

“Ugh,” Nia shoves the charcoal back at her partner. “It’s like licking a dirty grill.”

Tobias barks a laugh. He tries to reign it in, but his shoulders still shake as he stares at her. “I-I didn’t think you’d actually try it.”

“I was curious! You really underplayed how awful it is, though.”

Tobias shrugs and takes another bite, the sound cracking through the air even with the loud background track of the river. “‘S not that bad. Just…earthy.”

“‘Earthy,’ he says,” Nia teases. “I think you’ve just fried off all your taste buds. You—“

“There’s the turn!” Cas cuts in, hurrying to their side. The little duck looks out at the river with glittering eyes. “I love Shivergleam. It’s so spooky!”

Nia trades an uncomfortable look with Tobias as the ferry takes a turn down an offshoot of the main river. The trees on either side of the waterway close in overhead, blocking out much of the evening light. The air feels cooler, suddenly.

“Spooky?” Nia echoes cautiously.

Cas nods. “Yeah! There are lots of ghost types living in Shivergleam. Delia says that all kinds of weird stuff happens there!”

Nia takes a step closer to Tobias. He’s trying to look unbothered, but Nia sees him cast his sharp gaze out into the trees.

The shaded marsh around them does suddenly seem more…unsettling. Large stretches of floodwater sit between twisted trees, pools of reflected light between dark shade. Away from the roar of the Lilycap River, it feels unnaturally still. Even Beck and Nori, still swimming from side to side in front of the ferry to clear roots and foliage, seem to cut through the water silently.

It must take another half hour for them to finish the journey to Shivergleam, considering the sun is quickly setting through the trees. To Nia, it feels like it somehow takes half the time and twice as long, and her nerves only grow as they approach.

As long shadows fade to total darkness, Nia starts to see…lights. They’re a bluish-purple color, scattered like flickering candle flames throughout the trees. For a moment she thinks of the lights she saw when she was sick. Her memories. But when she looks to Tobias, he’s also watching them, brow furrowed.

When they start to flicker into being on either side of the waterway, Nia gets a closer look. They’re tiny flames, somehow resisting the damp environment. Additionally, they don’t seem to be…burning from anything, or even sheltered from the elements. Instead, they flicker in space at fixed points along the river, among the grassy banks and up in the trees. Like lamp lights along a street.

“Will-o-wisp?” Tobias murmurs.

Nia frowns, wracking her brain for the familiar term. “The move that causes burns?”

“Lots of ghost types learn it. They must have a system set up to light the path, like how the grass types at the guild repair the Lexym tree and open and close the windows to accommodate the weather.”

“Okay, that’s pretty cool,” Nia whispers, looking at the little flames with a mix of awe and unease.

Soon after, Beck and Nori pull themselves out of the water, dripping onto the deck. The floatzel shakes out his fur, and Tobias hisses and hides behind Nia. To Nia’s surprise, Cordelia keeps the boat moving.

Nia casts the dark river a nervous look. What if there are downed branches here still? Won’t they get caught up?

Beck moves to their side. He leans against the railing and smiles down at the will-o-wisps reflecting off the water. “Don’t worry. Shivergleam keeps the river clear from here on. Nori and I can relax.”

True to Beck’s word, they make the rest of the trip without any issue. As they round a bend in the river, the trees thin out enough to see the glow of the town ahead.

Shivergleam is built in bits and pieces into the thin, ropy trees of the swamp, like a city of treehouses. Long, draping boughs of leaves curtain the warm glow of the buildings. Nia can see the occasional silhouette move across bridges made of twisting roots and vines. The whole city almost looks like it’s floating in the blackness of the swamp, its lights reflected in the floodwater below. Nia almost doesn’t notice the short, jagged silhouettes poking above the surface. It takes her a moment to realize that they’re more buildings, homes and businesses swallowed by the floods. Her ears flatten.

“Ol’ Shivergleam,” Beck says, sounding pleased. “Some folks get spooked by so many ghost and dark types living in one place, but don’t let that scare you. They’re nice enough. Make sure you try the food while you’re here.”

Nia gives Beck a thin smile. “Will do. Thanks.”

“You think they’ll be open to us trying to find this Edme ‘mon?” Tobias asks.

Beck’s twin tails give a thoughtful spin. “Good question. They can be a bit private about Shivergleam matters. They didn’t want to ask for outside help with the floods until half their ground population lost their homes. But no harm in asking.”

Cordelia pulls the ferry to a stop beside a makeshift docking system made of arching, twisted branches. A staircase sits nearby, circling the tree’s trunk. Its lower steps lead under the floodwater and its upper steps lead up to the light and activity of the town.

Nori hops out to tie the boat to the dock, Cas scrambling to follow. Beck helps guide Nia and Tobias onto the firmer ground of the stairs—made with slick, damp wood that creaks underfoot. Nia grabs onto the thin rail with one hand and Tobias’ hand with the other, both for her reassurance and his own.

Cordelia leaps out of the boat and onto the stairs with all the confidence of a water type hanging over floodwater. Or maybe that’s just Cordelia. “Passengers delivered safely! Whatcha think, Charmander? Not too bad, eh?”

Tobias gives the croconaw a glare. Cordelia laughs.

Beck stands beside his captain, looking up at the islands of activity. Light shines down between thin gaps in the wood. “You two going to be okay on your own from here? You’ll probably have to catch a flight ‘mon when you want to leave.”

“Better be, because we ain’t sticking around. Heading out first thing in the morning,” Cordelia says, moving to help Cas carry a bag three times bigger than his entire body off the boat.

Beck hums. “I suppose she’s right. But if you need us before we leave, then just come find us at Hollowberry. Always happy to help out a new friend.”

“That offer does not extend to me!” Cordelia calls.

Nia laughs, giving Beck a warm smile. “Will do. Thank you so much, Beck.”

Beck gives her a friendly wink and Tobias a nod before turning to help his crew.

In the quiet left behind, Nia looks to Tobias, who has one hand gripping the rail with white knuckles and the other holding her hand tight enough to hurt.

“Ready?”

“I guess. Anything is better than being on that rickety old thing.”

Nia takes that as a yes and leads the two of them up the winding staircase, towards the gentle clamor of the population above. As they emerge into the soft light of the town, Nia looks around.

The platform they’re on holds two small, twisted buildings built into the side of the tree. One home’s window is bright, and Nia hears laughter from within. Long, drooping leaves drape over the roofs. Ropy bridges made with vines and roots link the platform on either end to another two islands, one slightly higher and the other slightly lower. Despite the heavy darkness of the night, the warm light spilling from most of the buildings lights up the town like a sea of stars.

It’s nothing like the busy roar of Afon’s merchant-heavy environment. It’s quieter here, almost residential. Pokemon talk in pairs or move peacefully about their business, but it all feels very…quaint.

Two Pokémon pass by Nia and Tobias, their conversation pausing as they give the pair cautious looks. They move on quickly enough, voices rising again as they gain distance. Nia’s almost too preoccupied by the townsfolk’s appearance to be hurt by their obvious suspicion. Her grip on Tobias’ hand tightens.

“Those are ghost types, right?” Nia murmurs, tearing her eyes away. She doesn’t want to be rude, but…well. She can see through them! They’re semi-transparent, the lights of the town visible as a blur of light through their bodies. It’s a little unnerving.

“Yeah?” Tobias asks, sounding puzzled. “Why are you so freaked out? I know we don’t get many ghost types in the Haven, but…”

“I know they aren’t like…dead,” Nia whispers, looking around to make sure no one is close enough to overhear. She doesn’t want to offend anyone. “But it’s still hard not to be freaked out by actual, literal ghosts!”

Tobias snorts. “They’re only called ghosts because of their typing, remember? They resemble what spirits are thought to look like, but they aren’t actually ghosts. Well, most of them.”

Nia gives him an incredulous look. “Most of them?!”

“Uh. Yeah? Did your books not tell you that? Some species are supposedly born from reincarnations. Maybe it’s just like a cultural thing, but they say all souls of certain species lived previous lives. Phantump. Pumpkaboo.” Tobias cuts her a dry look. “Yamask.”

Nia blinks, caught off-guard. “Yamask?” So…Will?

She does vaguely remember reading about the yamask line, when she first came to the Pokemon world and was looking for a name. About how they’re supposedly born from lost human souls. At the time she’d assumed that meant they were in the same situation as her and all the other humans, but Tobias almost seems to be implying that there’s something different about them. That some ghost types are…born as reincarnated souls. But Will is an adult and he’s only been here a few years, so—

Tobias tugs at Nia’s hand, apparently deeming her moment of existential crisis unimportant. “We’d better get moving. We’re getting looks.”

Nia shakes off her thoughts. “R-Right. Can you lead the way?”

Tobias snorts. “As long as you do the socializing.”

“Deal. Are we looking for Hollowberry to rest for the night?”

Tobias mouth flattens as he looks around. Nia follows his gaze, slowly less and less unnerved and more amazed by the chilling beauty of their surroundings.

“With this many ghost and dark types, most of the town probably runs on a nocturnal schedule,” Tobias finally says.

“Oh. So…should we start looking tonight?”

“Are you too tired?”

Tobias glances at her, then away. As if to make it seem like he doesn’t actually care about her answer. Nia bites back a smile and pointedly doesn’t remind the prickly charmander that they’re still holding hands.

“No, I’m all right! Where should we start?”

Tobias looks around, then heads down one of the bridges leading to another platform, releasing her hand to grab onto both sides of the railing. The woven branches underneath them creak and dip under their weight.

The first Pokemon they find who actually makes eye contact and seems willing to talk is a floating purple ghost with no legs and disembodied hands. He’s handing out samples outside of a cute little bakery, which means his friendliness is probably just a business tactic, but Nia will take it.

Nia gratefully accepts a small sample of donut and exchanges pleasantries before saying, “We were actually wondering if you happen to know anyone in town called Edme?”

The ghost type’s friendly smile falls, a gleam of suspicion entering his eyes. “…Where did you say you two are from?”

“Lexym Guild, in Bethoc’s Haven,” Tobias answers, crossing his arms. “We aren’t here to cause any trouble. Just want to ask them some questions.”

Another Pokemon, some kind of little orange and black fox with a large tail, walks by. The ghostly baker catches her eye, pasting on a huge grin. “Hey! Quinta! Want to try a new recipe?”

The fox glances at Nia and Tobias before deciding to speak to the baker. The two quickly start a conversation, turning their bodies to shut Nia and Tobias out.

Okay, message received. Nia devours her (delicious) donut sample and leads Tobias away before his flaring tail flame gets them in trouble.

“Maybe the next person will be more open to talk,” Nia says hopefully.

The look Tobias sends her makes it clear how much he doesn’t believe her. “Sure.”

Unfortunately, the next Pokemon they stop is no more forthcoming. Nor the next. Most of the townsfolk don’t look thrilled to talk to outsiders at all, but even the friendliest of Pokemon immediately clam up and hurry off when they mention Edme.

“This is going well,” Nia sighs when they take a break, sitting against one of the platforms’ central tree trunks. The wood is damp and the air is getting cold as the night wears on, so her fur feels both thin and uncomfortable. She’s starting to drag, but the town only seems to grow more active as the moon rises higher.

“They’re suspicious of outsiders, and apparently protective of this Edme ‘mon,” Tobias says, also looking tired. “They must think we’re here to cause trouble.”

“Even though we’re Seekers?”

Tobias sighs, rubbing at his eyes. “Probably because we’re Seekers. Ghost types and dark types get a bad reputation sometimes. They’re pinned much quicker for crimes than other types.”

Nia winces, remembering her earlier reaction to seeing the ghost types. She’s grown more accustomed to them over the past hour or so, since they’re not really any stranger or scarier than other types of Pokemon. They’re just not ones she’s used to seeing.

“So you think they’re worried we’re here to take Edme in?”

“Probably. Whether it’s warranted or not.”

Nia makes a thoughtful sound in her throat. “So far we have been pretty vague about why we want to talk to Edme. Should we just be honest about why we’re here?”

Tobias gives her an Are you crazy? sort of look. “And say we’re here to ask Edme about—“ Tobias’ voice lowers. “Giratina?”

“Why not?”

Tobias rolls his eyes. “He’s a scary story for a reason! Most ‘mon don’t even like hearing his name.”

“But Edme was the source for all of those books we read! They’re almost like the authority on Giratina. And everyone here is defending Edme, so—“

“So Giratina probably isn’t a bad omen here,” Tobias finishes, blinking at her. “Huh. You know, that…might make sense. He is a ghost type. I don’t know enough ghost types to know if they see him as a deity, but…”

“We could try it?” Nia suggests.

Tobias sighs. “I guess it can’t get any worse than how it’s been going so far.”

Their next target is a pair of Pokemon chatting amiably outside of a shop and drinking tea. A misdreavus and a banette, according to Tobias. The two ghost types quiet as Nia and Tobias approach and politely introduce themselves.

“—and we were hoping that you might know about a Pokemon called Edme? We need some information about Giratina, and we heard they’re the best person—uh, Pokemon to ask.”

The two Pokemon straighten up with surprised expressions when Nia mentions Giratina’s name. They exchange a look, but Nia can see the cold suspicion thaw, ever so slightly.

“You want to know more about Lord Giratina?” The banette asks, clearly doubtful.

Lord Giratina? Guess they were spot-on about the deity thing.

Nia nods. “Yes! Please. We came all this way looking for information.”

“Why? Most solids are too scared to even say his name.”

Nia hesitates. Looks to Tobias. He shrugs. She bites her lip and looks back at the two Pokemon. “H-He’s been following me. Through reflections. And we want to know why.”

The pair’s eyes widen. Their idle hovering stills. It’s the most open emotion anyone from the town has shown so far.

“Lord Giratina showed himself to you?” The misdreavus asks, voice hushed with awe.

The banette looks torn between suspicion and confusion. “Why would Lord Giratina show himself to some random fighting type?“

Nia opens her mouth without thinking, to say something about it possibly being because she’s human. Luckily, Tobias whacks her leg with his tail, stopping her from blabbing.

“That’s what we’d like to know,” Tobias growls. “So if someone could just tell us where to find Edme, that’d be great.”

The two Shivergleam natives look torn, exchanging a worried look.

“What do you think?” The misdreavus whispers, her “hair” floating in a nonexistent breeze.

“The riolu should be fine. She’s a fighting type. But sending a fire type to the Guardian? You know how dangerous that is!”

“But if Lord Giratina really did show himself, then there has to be a good reason! And you know the Guardian can handle herself.”

Nia and Tobias share an uncertain look as the two go back and forth about the “Guardian.” Looks like Tobias was right—the citizens of Shivergleam are protecting their own. Admirable, if not annoying at the current moment.

“Fine,” the banette finally says. She turns to Nia and Tobias. “We’ll tell you where to find the Guardian.“

“Oh, thank you so much! We—“

“But,” the ghost type interrupts, baring her terrifying zipper-like teeth. “We don’t take kindly to anyone messing with our own. Especially a Guardian. So just know that if you do anything to harm her, the entirety of Shivergleam won’t hesitate to drag you both to the afterlife.”

Nia’s bubbly gratitude dies in her chest. Eyes wide and tail tucked, she frantically agrees. Tobias glares at the two Pokemon, but nods.

The banette seems somewhat satisfied by that. She waves her friend on.

The misdreavus hesitates once more before gesturing with her chin to the right, off through the sea of platforms and flickering lights. “She lives on the edge of town, at one of the highest sectors. It’s the tall house with the shiny baubles hanging outside of it.”

Nia grins, forgetting her momentary fear in favor of relief that their search is almost over. “Got it! Thank you!”

The two Pokemon still seem unsure. They go back to their tea with an uneasy air. Tobias hauls Nia away as she’s still trying to thank them.

“You want to lead the way?” Nia asks. “I’m so glad we finally know where to find her!”

Tobias snorts. “After a little light threatening of our lives. But yes, of course I’m leading. You’ll run us in circles with your sense of direction.”

Nia concedes that and follows Tobias across town. The residents of Shivergleam still give them wary looks as they pass by, but otherwise don’t seem aggressive. Defensive, if anything. It hurts Nia’s feelings a bit, to be honest, but she figures that she can’t really be upset with them if they’ve been blamed in the past so much by outsiders. She shouldn’t make this about her own hurt feelings when they’re the ones who have actually been harmed.

At least the town itself is a beautiful sight to see. Still damp and a bit unnerving to traverse with the pitch blackness of the water far below them, but otherwise lovely. The warm lights of the buildings make the place feel magical, almost dreamlike. Or maybe that’s just Nia’s sleepiness talking. It is getting late.

“Why do you think they were calling Edme ‘the Guardian?’” Nia asks.

Tobias shrugs, eyes glued to his feet as he carefully crosses the bridge. “Dunno. Not a title I’m familiar with.”

“They sounded kind of…reverent. Of both Edme and Giratina. I haven’t heard Pokemon call any of the legendaries ‘Lord’ before.”

“Eh, ghost types can be weird. If they’re looking to Giratina of all Pokemon for protection, then you know they’ve got a few screws loose.”

“Don’t be rude. Everyone has their own beliefs.”

“I guess.”

By time Nia hears the gentle tinkling of something almost like windchimes, the warm lights of the town have started to die off. Black forest sits ahead, with a single home framed against it. It’s a tall, narrow, misshapen structure of woven roots and branches. Shiny items like bottles, mirrors and glass are tied together from branches, swaying gently in the breeze. The upper windows are aglow with a soft light.

“Guess this is it,” Nia murmurs.

“Guess so,” Tobias responds. “Ready to get some answers?”

“I hope so.”

Nia steps forward to knock firmly on the front door. She listens for footsteps from inside, but doesn’t hear anything. So she’s surprised when the door unlatches and swings open. The faint purple of telekinetic energy—usually belonging to a psychic or ghost type—glows off the door handle in the dark room within.

In the doorway floats a…bug? It almost looks like a cicada shell, something about its stiff body and angular wings bringing to mind childhood summers and bugsong. A halo-like piece floats above the Pokemon’s head, and it stares out at the two of them with two immobile eyes. It floats faintly in place, but otherwise doesn’t move—not the flicker of an eye or the twitch of a claw. Not even a breath.

Nia feels a shiver roll down her spine.

Then the Pokemon speaks, a chipper voice echoing out of the shell. “Yes? How can I help you two?”

Nia blinks. Opens her mouth to respond. Closes it again. Something about the expressive voice paired with the unsettlingly dead image is…really throwing her for a loop. Not to mention that they’ve been running into unfriendly residents all night.

“Are you Edme?” Tobias asks. “The, uh, Guardian?”

The bug Pokemon laughs. It’s unsettling not seeing the body move with the sound. “I was the last time I checked! To who do I owe the pleasure?”

“N-Nia,” Nia finally blurts, getting her tongue under control. “Nia and Tobias, of Team Scarlet.“

“A Seeker team?” Edme asks, sounding intrigued. “We don’t see many Seekers in Shivergleam.”

“Well, we aren’t really here on team business. We were actually hoping to ask you some, uh, questions? About Giratina.”

Edme floats slightly lower, as if to meet their eyes and get a better look at them. “It’s…rare, for someone outside of our community to seek out information about Lord Giratina.”

It’s a thinly veiled question, just the slightest bit wary. Nia glances at Tobias. He gestures for her to go ahead.

“Giratina’s been following me, through reflections. Trying to contact me. I—we did some research, and pretty much every book we could find referenced you in some way, so we figured you know the most about him. We were hoping you could give us some answers.”

Edme stills entirely at this new information, as if frozen in time. Nia opens her mouth to ask if she’s all right when the bug lurches forward, a little too close to Nia’s space.

“You say you’ve seen Giratina? You believe him to be attempting contact?”

“Yeah, we’re pretty confident about that,” Tobias says drily, clearly thinking about the banished legendary trying to yank Nia into the distortion world.

Edme turns to Nia for confirmation, so she gives a helpless shrug.

Edme bobs in the air, as if excited. “That is incredible news! Please, do come in.”

The bug turns and heads inside. Nia shudders when she catches a glimpse of a hole in Edme’s back, showing the blackness of a hollow shell inside.

Nia looks to Tobias, unsure. Tobias nudges past Nia to lead the way, swinging his tail forward to use it as a torch in the dark house. By the light of his flame, Nia can see the walls are covered in bookshelves, and what little space is left is taken up by tables holding notes and inks, bowls and ingredients and jars. A large woven rug sits in the middle of the floor, strangely empty of furniture. A spiral staircase winds around the sides of the room and upstairs, to where Nia saw the lights in the window from outside. A study, maybe. It all looks rather spooky in the low light.

“Oh! My apologies,” Edme says, floating back down from the darkness and making them jump. “Let me give you some light.”

Edme uses the same telekinetic power—Nia still isn’t sure if it’s psychic or ghost type in nature, but she’s leaning towards psychic considering she can feel her fur prickle—to pick up a lit candle from upstairs in bright purple energy. It floats down and expertly makes a circuit around the room, lighting half-melted candlesticks until the space is warmly lit.

Nia relaxes, following Edme to where she’s nudging two cushions forward on the floor. They’re dusty with disuse, but Nia doesn’t want to be rude and point it out so she sits gingerly. Tobias has no such qualms and takes a moment to beat the dust off the cushion before flopping down.

Edme lowers herself to hover in front of them. “Would you two like some tea?”

Nia, anxious as she is to get some answers and worried that tea might lull her to sleep at this late hour, smiles and politely declines. Tobias just shakes his head.

Edme laughs her hollow laugh, blank expression never shifting. “Honestly, I was hoping you would say no. Now, would you mind laying out your situation? When did you notice Lord Giratina following you?”

Nia blinks, surprised that Edme believed them so easily. She looks to Tobias to start explaining, since he was the first one to notice Giratina.

Tobias, however, clearly isn’t as eager to talk. He crosses his arms and narrows his eyes. “I have a few questions first. We came to find you because you were the most referenced source in the books about Giratina, but it was obvious that the authors were holding stuff back. Being intentionally vague. Why?”

“Tobias!” Nia hisses. They’re the ones who came barging into Edme’s house—starting off with open suspicion is just rude!

But Edme simply laughs. “No, it’s quite all right. You are exactly right. There is a reason you could sense holes in their words. I no longer speak with authors, as they so willingly pick and choose what to share of the truth.”

“The truth..?” Nia echoes.

“The truth that the Guardians preserve, as servants to Lord Giratina.”

Nia and Tobias’ confusion is palpable.

Edme bobs, as if nodding. “Ah, yes. Allow me to introduce myself properly.” She twirls higher off the ground. “I am Guardian Edme, the 13th Guardian under Lord Giratina.”

Edme circles the room, gesturing with her body to the many, many papers and books stuffed into the walls. “For nearly a millennium, Lord Giratina has had a loyal guard in our realm to act as the official liaison between our dimension and the distortion world.”

“A millennium?” Tobias asks, suspicious. “So you didn’t stop serving him once he was banished.”

“Because he was banished unfairly,” Edme says, as simply as the sky being blue or grass being green. “Wrongfully ousted for trying to protect our world.”

Nia straightens up, frowning.

Tobias beats her to the punch, clearly incredulous. “That’s…definitely not the story we’ve heard. We heard that Giratina nearly killed another legendary and was banished for his violence.”

Edme lowers slightly, as if slumping. “Yes. Despite our best efforts, the truth has been grossly distorted.”

“But…that’s the story literally everyone knows,” Tobias protests. “It’s what’s written in all the books—including the ones you’re referenced in!”

For a moment, Nia swears the flames on the candles flare brighter before dying down again. Edme is once more still as stone.

Then, she speaks, voice bitter. “They record the truth they want to be known. Not the truth that actually happened. No matter how loudly we shout it.”

“And how do we know that what you say actually happened is the real truth?” Tobias challenges.

Nia bites her tongue. He has a point.

Edme turns to them, rising higher until she looms over them. In the flickering light, she looks as imposing as a statue in the dead of night, playing tricks on Nia’s eyes.

“I know this,” Edme says quietly. “Because I am a Guardian. It has been my duty since the moment I was born from my sister’s shell. This is my only duty. And the only duty of all my predecessors. I know the truth because they have taught it to me. Because I have spoken to Lord Giratina myself.”

Nia’s breath catches. “Wait. Y-You’ve talked to him? How? When he tried speaking to me in the tunnels I couldn’t hear him at all.”

Edme turns to Nia, quiet for a moment. Then she says, “I can allow you to speak to him, if you’d like.”

“No. I still don’t trust him,” Tobias growls. “Or, quite frankly, this ‘truth’ that you and your predecessors believe in. Sorry, but when the whole world thinks that Arceus themself banished Giratina for nearly murdering another legendary, it’s kind of a hard impression to forget. Plus, he tried to yank Nia into his creepy dimension against her will!”

“He did help us in the tunnels,” Nia points out, softly. Tobias throws up his hands, at a loss of how to respond.

Nia turns to Edme and says, hesitantly, “I guess…I don’t know what to believe right now. We thought he was bad, but he helped us recently. I know he did. And he has to be trying to talk to me for a reason. We were hoping you could give us some answers as to what that reason might be.”

Edme hums. “You would have to speak to Lord Giratina yourself for that. I can tell you the truth of his banishment, but I know not why he follows you.”

Nia swallows. She doesn’t know how ready she is to try “speaking” to Giratina. But…

“Could you tell us, then?” She asks. “What the true story is, according to the Guardians?”

Edme looks Nia in the eyes with hollow pupils. “Are you sure you want to hear it? There is a reason the cowardly pens of those writers never recorded my words.”

Nia looks to Tobias. He still doesn’t look like he trusts Edme, but she can tell he won’t stop her, either. Nia takes a deep breath and nods. “Y-Yes. Please. We want all the information before moving forward.”

Edme is silent for a moment longer. Then she chuckles. “Wise girl. I will gladly share the truth, if you promise to hear it.”

Nia murmurs agreement, and Tobias grudgingly copies her once Edme turns her stare onto him. Then Edme settles, floating low to the ground in front of them. Nia crosses her legs and leans closer, heart pounding.

“The story told for decades is that of Lord Giratina attacking another legendary Pokemon. Of Arceus commanding the Lake Trio to banish him to the Distortion World for his crime, destined to protect the dimensional borders without ever leaving them. Correct?”

Nia thinks that’s right, but lets Tobias nod their confirmation.

“The truth,” Edme says. “Is that Arceus had nothing to do with that decision. They weren’t even aware of it.”

Tobias frowns. Nia wracks her brain to keep up with the unfamiliar lore. Arceus is like…the god above all the other deities, right? The one in charge of everything?

“But,” Tobias says. “That doesn’t make any sense. Even if Arceus weren’t there at the time, they would still know about it, right? If Arceus is real, then surely you can’t hide anything from them.”

“Arceus is a very knowledgeable being,” Edme agrees. “Their eyes and ears and arms reach farther than any other. But they did not know about Lord Giratina’s banishment, for they were already asleep.”

“Asleep?” Nia murmurs.

“Asleep…” Tobias’ eyes widen. “You mean how the rest of the legendaries have gone dormant and disappeared? Arceus also..?”

“Arceus was the first,” Edme says. “They fell to sleep and none could wake them. Still to this day they rest. Presently, most of the others have followed. However, when it was just Arceus, when the panic of their parent’s falling was fresh, the legends didn’t know what to do.”

Nia can sense the gravity of Edme’s words, even if she’s having a hard time feeling like they’re actually…real, and not just a fairy tale. She glances at Tobias, and is surprised that for someone once so unconcerned about legendaries, the charmander seems pale and tense.

“The legends argued,” Edme continues. “About what to do after Arceus fell dormant. For months on end. This had never happened before. They didn’t know what would happen without Arceus there to guide them. Would their own energy falter? Who would protect the mortal Pokemon of their world?”

“Without their leader,” Edme continues. “Infighting began. And in the gods’ absence, our world began to slip. Without Lugia and Kyogre guiding the seas, waves became impossible to navigate. Marine Pokemon and sailors alike died without any hope of rescue. Without Groudon and Regirock, the earth shook and splintered without guidance, destroying towns and homes. Without the guiding winds of Tornadus and Rayquaza, gales developed into terrible storms free from Raikou and Zapdos’ protection, striking the earth with lightning and fire and flooding it with rain.”

“So they just…abandoned the Pokemon world?” Nia whispers, horrified. “To argue?”

“Most of them. Understand that to an immortal legendary, a few months is a heartbeat in time. To the Pokemon in our realm, it is an eternity. Many of them did not realize they were abandoning the world that they were born to protect.”

“Are you making this up to make all the other legendaries look bad?” Tobias accuses, baring his teeth. “It’s not very subtle.”

Edme laughs. “I don’t need to make it up. The legendaries are generally benevolent. But they were aware of their power in a way that led to self-importance.”

After a heavy beat of silence, Nia hopefully adds, “But you said most of them didn’t notice the issues they were causing, right..?”

Edme bobs in a nod. “Yes. A few legendaries were aware of what their absence meant for the Pokemon of the world. Those more tied into the affairs of mortals. Entei, protector of children. The Swords of Justice. Latias and Latios. Mew, Mother of all Pokemon. Lord Giratina.”

“You’re trying to tell us he was worried about mortals?” Tobias scoffs.

“He was not,” Edme says, startling Nia and Tobias into silence. “At least, not directly. He was worried about his domain—the dimensional rift. The borders containing our world, and keeping it safely separate from others.”

“Like the human world?” Nia ventures.

Edme nods. “Yes. Lord Giratina has been the guardian of our world’s borders since the beginning. He doesn’t care much for mortals, but he takes his duty seriously. He was aware that Arceus’ sleep was concerning, but the absence of legendaries—particularly his siblings Dialga and Palkia—only exacerbated the issue. Their panic was putting the fragile balance of the world in danger, and endangering the entire dimension in the process.”

“So what did he do?” Nia asks.

Edme laughs, this one more genuinely happy than bitter. “He gave the other legends a piece of his mind. Told them all to get back to their stations and stop destroying Arceus’ beloved world if they were so worried.”

Despite herself, Nia quirks a smile.

“However,” Edme says, voice sobering again. “In Lord Giratina’s absence, more of the legends had fallen dormant against their will. Victini. Hoopa. Jirachi. Tensions had grown high. Cresselia, in a fit of anger, accused Lord Giratina of being uncaring for their parent, Arceus. Even accused him of being the cause for their dormancy.”

Tobias makes a doubtful noise, but otherwise doesn’t interrupt. Nia frowns, focused entirely on Edme’s hushed voice in the dim candlelight.

“She attacked him, and so Lord Giratina defended himself. Squabbles between legendaries were not rare, but never was there intent to genuinely harm one another. However, Cresselia, already in a weakened state, was seriously injured and fell dormant after the fight.”

“On edge,” Edme continues. “The Lake Trio—Azelf, Mesprit, and Uxie—used their power to banish Lord Giratina to his domain in the Distortion World. The battle did spur the legendaries to finally return to their stations, however, rebalancing the world for the past hundred years.”

“But?” Nia murmurs.

“But,” Edme sighs. “They too eventually fell to sleep. Recently, even the most powerful of legendaries have begun to fall dormant.”

“The increase in natural disasters,” Tobias murmurs.

“Correct.”

“Is that what’s causing the mystery dungeons, too?” Nia asks.

“I…am not sure,” Edme admits. “Giratina is not speaking to me as openly as he used to. However, considering the two phenomena have been following the same progression, I believe they must be linked in some way.”

“Giratina hasn’t been talking to you?” Tobias asks, doubtful. “He’s sure been trying to ‘talk’ to Nia lately.”

Edme turns hollow eyes on Nia. It feels a bit unnerving. “Lord Giratina himself is weakening, but he believes that whatever is causing legendaries to fall dormant and steering the world towards ruin can still be reversed. Perhaps…he believes you could be of use in such a mission.”

Nia leans back. “M-Me? What could I do to help?”

“And I don’t like how you phrased that,” Tobias growls. “‘Of use?’”

Edme floats a bit higher. “Apologies. I simply meant you might be helpful in finding the answers Lord Giratina seeks.”

There’s a heavy moment of silence, tense and unsure as they digest that.

“That’s…” Tobias starts, sounding off-kilter.

“A lot,” Nia finishes. “And you heard this story from…Giratina?”

Edme floats over to a window, as if looking outside into the night. “I understand you may think me foolish, to believe the better light straight from the accused’s mouth. But my predecessors assure me that Lord Giratina has always been harsh, but just. That he would never intentionally harm another legend. I believe it to be the truth.”

Nia glances at Tobias, wanting his take on all this. The charmander is staring down with a furrowed brow, lost in thought.

“I still recommend speaking to Lord Giratina yourself,” Edme says, moving to float over to one of her tables. She uses her power to start sifting through the mess. “I can set up the ritual now, if you would like.”

Nia’s head snaps up. “What?”

“Like bring him here?” Tobias asks, barely hiding his alarm. “To our world?”

“No, no. Not to this realm, of course. The Lake Trio saw to it that even in their dormancy Lord Giratina would not be able to cross over any time soon. Especially not here. If anywhere, that would need to occur at the dimensional gate.”

“Dimensional gate?” Nia echoes.

“The traditional summoning spot for Lord Giratina,” Edme explains absently, shuffling through jars and papers. “Where the border between our realm and the dimensional rift is thinnest.”

Nia opens her mouth to continue that line of questioning, but Edme makes a sound of triumph, pulling back with a few supplies held in her purple energy.

“Would you be willing to speak with Lord Giratina and ask him yourself why he is trying to contact you? I believe conversing with him will convince you of his authenticity as well.”

Tobias growls a sharp, “No.”

Nia stays silent. Conflicted.

Tobias looks at her, bewildered. “You can’t be serious.”

“I’m not saying we trust him immediately, or even Edme’s story, but…”

“He’s the villain of the story! Of course he’s going to try and spin himself in a better light. And you can’t trust someone who is clearly obsessed with him to be any more truthful! I know how you are, Nia. If you talk to him, he’ll win you over with some sob story in a heartbeat.”

Nia huffs. “But what if they’re telling the truth? What if Giratina isn’t the bad guy he’s made out to be and he’s trying to save the Pokemon world? What if he needs my help somehow?”

Tobias groans and rubs at his face, muttering something about her being a bleeding heart.

“It can’t hurt just to talk to him, right?” Nia adds. “And you’ll be right here to keep us on track.”

Tobias looks at her for a long moment. Then he sighs. “Fine. But only because I know you won’t let up otherwise.”

Edme, who had been waiting nearby with barely restrained enthusiasm, jumps into action. She shoos them away from the cushions they’d been sitting on, then moves the pillows aside with her powers. Then she removes the rug covering the space in the middle of the floor, only to reveal a circular wooden panel below. Purple energy envelops it and easily lifts it aside, leaving a shallow dip in the wooden flooring maybe an inch or two deep.

Edme bustles about, gathering supplies and snuffing out a few of the candles. She fills the basin with a bowl of water, until the surface of it is nothing more than a smooth, glassy pool. Then she sprinkles some herbs on top of its surface, pouring a salt-like mixture into an intricate pattern on the wood around the outside of the pool.

“Should we tell her that Giratina just…shows up around you?” Tobias whispers to Nia, dry with humor.

Nia bites back a smile despite her nerves. “This does look very…intense. But she has to have a reason for it, right?” Even if she does look like she’s trying to summon the dead.

Finally, Edme floats back, apparently satisfied. Only a few candles near the basin remain lit, leaving the edges of the room dark. The thin pool of water almost seems to…glow, in the low light, a few bits of herbs floating on its surface.

“Now what?” Tobias asks, shifting nervously.

Nia moves to step closer to the pool, and he quickly latches onto her arm to stop her.

“We have lit the beacon for Lord Giratina. But if he has been following you, young riolu…” Edme turns to her. “Would you mind stepping into the pool, to show him you’re here?”

Nia stiffens, and Tobias immediately turns on the bug with a glare.

“We said we’d talk,” he growls. “Nothing more. I don’t care how much you believe Giratina’s story—we still don’t know that he isn’t trying to kill Nia or something. She’s not stepping in there to serve herself up on a silver platter.”

Edme angles slightly towards Nia. “Riolu?”

“I-I have to admit I’m not…completely comfortable with the idea. Can I not just…I don’t know. Sit by it and call out to him or something?”

“It is the only way to speak to him,” Edme says, something in her voice making Nia nervous. Something almost…desperate.

“It’s also the only way we know of for him to grab you,” Tobias counters, baring his teeth.

“You must be in his realm to speak with him!” Edme says, voice rising. “The banishment—”

“You didn’t tell us that!” Tobias snaps, stepping in front of Nia. “We sure aren’t going onto his creepy turf!”

For a moment, Edme is silent, staring at the two of them. Nia has a terrible feeling in her gut. Then, the bug sighs. “Shame. I was hoping I wouldn’t have to force you.”

Tobias’ lashing tail stills. “…What?”

In a flash of purple light, Nia feels her whole body lock up. From the corner of her eye, she can see herself outlined in the same bright purple energy that Edme’s been using all night. She can’t move anything but her eyes and her mouth. She’s stuck. Through her panic, she absently notes that it must be a psychic-type move if it’s able to affect her.

In front of her, Nia can hear Tobias make a strangled sound as he too is caught in the attack. Then, he’s pulled through the air to float at Edme’s side, wild eyes flicking to Nia.

“What’re you doing?!” Tobias snarls. Nia can see fire glow briefly behind his teeth before he chokes again and it peters out.

Nia has a sinking feeling about where this is going, even before Edme’s powers start to pilot her legs, moving her forward one jerky step at a time like a puppet.

“E-Edme, wait!” Nia yelps. “Let’s talk about this!”

Edme hums. “Unfortunately, Riolu, I must put Lord Giratina’s wishes above your comfort. If he wants to speak with you, I shall make it so. You cannot hear him if you are not in his realm. I was hoping to get you there voluntarily, but I can see the lies you’ve heard won’t allow that.”

Nia’s foot splashes into the thin basin of water. And then the other, until she’s frozen in place right in the middle of it, shaking against Edme’s grip.

Nia didn’t realize she was so powerful.

“Don’t worry,” Edme says, voice bright. “He won’t harm you. You should be excited! Not everyone gets the chance to speak with a legend.”

Nia feels tears start to gather in her eyes as her heart pounds. She alternates between looking down at the reflections in the pool below and up at Edme and Tobias. “I-I don’t want to. Please, Edme—“

Tobias tries to lunge forward, only to be snapped back into place. His eyes are glued to the pool.

Nia follows his gaze down and feels like she’s going to throw up. Giratina circles in the reflections below her, gold and gray and black and red. A faint serpentine shape growing closer and closer.

Nia closes her eyes, counting her rapid heartbeats and praying that something happens to miraculously save them. To break them from Edme’s grip and let them escape. Something cold wraps around her ankle. She whimpers, refusing to look.

Tobias is panting and growling, still struggling against the bright purple energy surrounding him. “Nia!”

The grip around Nia’s ankle tightens. She opens her eyes and looks to Tobias. She has a single moment to meet her partner’s eyes before the grip around her yanks.

Despite the shallow water of the pool, she’s pulled straight down. Deep, deeper than should be possible, through the coolness of the water and then back into open air. Her stomach flips. She feels like she’s weightless in the worst way possible.

The world seems to spin, and then she’s falling hard on solid, dry ground. She gasps, pushing herself up on shaky arms. She’s free of Edme’s telekinetic grip. She looks around wildly at the dark environment she’s found herself in.

It’s like some kind of strange nightmare. A dark, crumbling stone landscape, pieces floating midair as if trapped in resin. A swirling blue-black void of empty sky sits as its backdrop, and weirdly enough Nia is reminded of that one Vincent van Gogh painting she was taught about in elementary school: The Starry Night. Just without the comfort of the stars. The air is stiflingly still, making her shaky breaths seem particularly loud.

It feels…heavy here. Unnatural.

Nia staggers to her feet. She opens her mouth to call out for Tobias, but movement catches her eye. She follows it, her partner’s name dying on her tongue as she tips her head back.

Looming above her, all long tendril wings and piercing red eyes, is a creature of nightmares.

Giratina.

[girlinlotsoffandoms]

day eight - presumed dead

notes: welcome to day eight of febwhump. This one’s gonna hurt guys, sorry

TW for plane crash

part two will be posted tomorrow!

read on AO3 or below

“Text me your flight information. Maybe we’ll swing by, pick you up in 81,”

Kelly laughed sarcastically. “Oh, the O’Hare arrivals area is going to love that.”

“Fineeee,” Stella drawled, playfully. “Guess you’ll have to Uber like a normal person.”

“The horror.” Kelly’s laugh was genuine this time. “Just sent my flight info. I’ll see you tomorrow. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

… … …

It had been a quiet day for 51, and Stella hoped it stayed that way. A quiet shift meant she’d get off on time and would get to go home to her husband all the sooner.

Kelly had texted her when he made it through security and he texted her a few hours later that they’d be boarding soon. She’d texted back a “see you soon♥" with a smile on her face. Stella couldn’t wait for her husband to get home. It had been a long two weeks and, while it was significantly better than Kelly’s time in Alabama, it was two weeks too long for Stella. Even with constant texts and daily phone calls, she missed her husband something fierce. 

Violet had caught her smirk. “That Severide? He on his way home?”

“Yeah! ATF caught the guy and Kelly was able to wrap up his part of the case. His flight’s boarding in a few and in…” Stella checked the time on her phone. “Four-ish hours he’ll be back in Chicago.”

That had been two hours and a few calls ago and now they were all in the common room relaxing until dinner was ready. The TV had been playing in the background all day, providing a little ambiance and background noise for the room, but no one was really paying attention to whatever was on the screen. 

At least that was until Gibson looked up from the grill and caught sight of the breaking news story scrolling across the screen. “Whoa Mouch, turn up the volume.”

Mouch grabbed the remote and turned up the volume, seeing the BREAKING NEWS banner flash across the screen. The newscaster's voice filled the room.

“If you’re just tuning in, breaking news out of Kansas after an American Airlines flight crash landed into a field just a few miles west of the Eisenhower National Airport where it was attempting to make an emergency landing. American Airlines flight 3804 was traveling to Chicago from Tucson, Arizona and was halfway through the 4 hour flight when the pilots reported a mechanical engine failure. Emergency services are on the scene but there’s no word on the status of the 240 passengers and 8 crew members who were on board. We will continue to update as more information becomes available.”

The rest of the broadcast faded away as the crew of 51 stared at the TV in shock. 

“Tuscon to Chicago?” Ritter asked quietly. “Is that…?”

Stella scrambled to grab her phone and pull up her text conversation with Kelly. She found the flight information he sent her, then double and triple checked the message as if she hadn’t committed it to memory. Stella swallowed hard and her hands began to shake. “That’s Kelly’s flight.”

  … … …

The next hour seemed impossibly long. As soon as the news broke Boden called Headquarters and stood 51 down. Until they knew more information, none of his firefighters were going to be able to focus on the job.

Stella, Cruz, and a few other members of 51 tried calling Kelly, desperately hoping he’d answer their call. At first, Kelly’s phone would ring but it didn’t take long before his phone started going straight to voicemail.

That was the first time Stella cried.

Another news report had come across the TV. The FAA and NTSB had started their investigations into the crash and emergency crews were still searching for survivors though sadly, none had been found yet.

Pictures and footage from the crash site had made their way onto social media and the images were devastating. Surviving a crash like that would’ve taken a miracle.

And oh how the members of Firehouse 51 were desperately hoping for one.

… … …

It was only half an hour later when they realized their miracle wasn’t coming.

Stella’s phone rang, an unknown number from Texas, and she hesitated for just a moment before she answered. On the other end of the line was a frazzled yet sorrowful American Airlines agent who confirmed everyone’s greatest fear—Kelly’s name was on the flight manifest and his boarding pass had been scanned.

A guttural sob bubbled out of Stella and her phone clattered to the floor below. Brett and Violet immediately wrapped her in a hug.

No one needed her to repeat what the caller had said; Stella’s reaction told them all they needed to know.

Kelly Severide was dead.  

There wasn’t a dry eye in the firehouse. Stella was inconsolable and others weren’t that far behind. None of them could believe what had happened; none of them could believe their friend and teammate, their leader, was dead. 

How were they supposed to get through this? How were they supposed to help Stella through this unimaginable loss? Would they get through it?

No one had any answers.

… … …

It took a while, but Stella’s sobs eventually stopped, her sadness and grief gave way to shock. She sat numbly at the table, surrounded by her team, a steady stream of tears rolling down her cheeks.

Brett had offered her a sedative, something light so she could get some rest, but Stella refused. She didn’t need to sleep—she wouldn’t be able to even if she needed to. She had to stay awake and stay by her phone, just in case.

There was still part of her hoping for that miracle.

There was still part of her that didn’t believe Kelly was dead.

She’d know if he was, she’d feel it.

And she was right.

Her phone rang from it’s spot on the table, another unknown number flashing across her screen. She answered on speakerphone, too emotionally spent to pick up the phone. “Hello?”

A familiar voice flitted through the speaker, instantly energizing everyone in the room. “Stella.”

[sadpearonmars]

15 questions meme

Tagged by @saiditallbefore :)

Are you named after anyone? Not really. I choose my name and I picked names that weren't emotionally connected. I considered using my grandfather's name but it is pretty common and a somewhat famous trans guy I can't stand has it.

When was the last time you cried? While watching the graveside flowers being left at Alexei Navalny's grave, seeing the crowds in the streets of Moscow risking their lives to pay their respects. Devastating. I struggled to write for a week after he died. Nalvany was four years older than me and I'd watched him work for a long time. His death felt like the destruction of something so irreplaceable and beautiful. But in the darkness of it, there were people finding themselves and the fortitude to keep going. Navalny's dream for the beautiful future of Russia will not die with his body.

Do you have kids? No. I have never wanted to be a parent. The moment I learned about pregnancy and what was possible when I was around 9-10 years old, I immediately began planning to get sterilized as soon as possible.

What sports do you play/have you played? None. I was not athletically gifted as a kid and opportunities/money were not something I had. I took fencing at university and loved it, but it's an expensive hobby.

Do you use sarcasm? I do, but I like to think I achieve a better balance of sarcasm and earnestness these days. Like a lot of people, I went through that very grim/sarcastic phase. But I value genuine enjoyment more. Death to cringe culture and people afraid to just enjoy things/let other people enjoy things.

What is the first thing you notice about people? Probably their clothes. If they have interesting accessories.

What is your eye color? Green, very green. Possibly the one thing about my physical form that has never disappointed me.

Scary movies or happy endings? Are we meant to think these things are mutually exclusive? Because I think they go together. Look on the very basic level I'm more likely to watch a scary movie just because most happy ending movies are relentlessly heterosexual and I find that boring.

What are your talents? I'm a good cook and baker. I can follow a recipe and improvise as needed. My particular traumas mean when someone needs emergency services I know how to get things done in a crisis and can save the freak out for later. I can spin endless stories.

Where were you born? In the Panhandle Plains of Texas, where the sky goes on forever. You can see a storm coming for miles. It was land that the Comanche roamed for generations, traversing the seas of grass and the Caprock. The second largest canyon in America is there and it is beautiful. They've reintroduced bison and they roam. It is stark and empty and terrible in some ways but also beautiful.

What are your hobbies? Reading, writing, gardening, doing the occasional fidgety crafty sort of thing. Casual bird watching from my windows. I like to try different things and I'm going to try weightlifting next.

Do you have any pets? A cat who is 21+ years old named Jasmine. She is pretty deaf and has two heated beds plus a heating blanket on the couch for her comfort.

How tall are you? Five foot four inches as I have been for about 30 years. Disappointing to me but probably ultimately irrelevant.

Dream job/career? I have now, which is to say I do not have a job. I'm a house husband and a writer. Work is a scam and we live in a capitalist hellscape. My dad spent his entire life doing a job he hated because it was wrapped up in the idea that a Man did certain things. The longest I ever stayed at a job was seven years, the shortest was one week. Quitting is always my favorite part.

Tagging a couple of people if you want to play the meme game @balconyskeletons @yourstrulyknits @by-ilmater @udunie @sineala

[invisibleraven]

"You're safe, I promise." for Ray and any of his many children that may or may not be his?

No one ever told Ray how hard it would be being a single dad.

Especially when one of his kids comes with six extra ones who practically seem to live at his house.

Flynn he's used to, as Julie spent just as much time at the Taylor's house growing up, so he's never surprised to see the girl helping herself to his apples or stashing her secret soda supply there when her mom is on an anti sugar run.

Carrie had been a fixture for some time as well, then the girls had some kind of falling out. Now she seems to be back with a vengeance, a little sharper, a little more stand offish, but still herself in all her sparkly pink glory. He knows she's alone save for the occasional staff more often than not, so he doesn't begrudge her wanting a home full of people as opposed to that big empty mansion.

The boys are new.

They're a motley crew, full of noise and laughter and Ray honestly loves how Julie comes back to life around them. How the house is once more full of music, even if his fridge is a lot emptier and his grocery bill is higher thanks to their constant snacking.

Ray doesn't mind though, not really. Especially not after Julie thanks him for being so kind to her friends, whispering that none of them have great home lives. Ray is more than happy to provide them his home as a safe haven though, be a good dad, or at least caring adult in their lives when they seem to be lacking on those counts.

Luke is pretty open about his fights with his mom, and while Ray can see both sides of it, he does try to be supportive of the band, even offering to film their gigs for their social media. Maybe even mentions he has friends at a few clubs if they ever want him to put their name forward. Luke gives him a genuine smile at that, so Ray figures he's won him over.

Reggie is boisterous and cheery, but Ray can see how he freezes up at loud noises, how he retreats into himself when it's time to go. Ray always tries to be a little warmer and understanding around him after that. Inviting him to stay for supper, to show him how his cameras worked after Reggie showed the barest interest. But he also keeps Victoria informed-she's the best social worker in the area, and Ray hopes he's wrong, but he'd rather have her in Reggie's corner if-and hopefully not when-he needs her.

Willie he can't quite get a read on yet, but he's always respectful and sweet, skating in and out of the garage at will, so Ray likes him enough. He's heard a thing or two about his foster dad Caleb though, and always lets Willie know he's welcome any time, even if the band isn't there. The shocked look that fades into a tiny grin makes it all worth it, in Ray's mind. Even if he wishes the kid would replace his helmet with one that doesn't have that huge crack in it.

Then there's Alex.

Ray knows the Mercers by reputation, as Victoria has friends of friends who go to their church. Society and image obsessed with hate in their hearts and a very literal interpretation of the scripture. He doesn't have a very high opinion.

Especially when he sees how Alex acts around him. Around his friends Alex is sarcastic and silly. Happy enough to whale on his drums with a bright grin or dance around with Willie to the catchiest pop tunes. But when Ray comes in with a tray of drinks or a bowl of snacks, Alex freezes. Immediately lets go of Willie, stands straighter but also closing in on himself, avoiding Ray's eyes.

Then the rumours he's heard about Alex's parents make so much more sense, and it fills Ray with a righteous fury. When Julie came out to him as bi, he openly accepted her-she was his daughter, how could he not? Plus he and Rose had both experimented and landed somewhere in the not straight category, so it would be pretty hypocritical of him if he had shunned Julie for the same.

Thus he wants to find some way to let Alex know that he's accepted here, no matter what.

Of course, subtly had never been in Ray's vocabulary, and the large Pride flag flying in their front yard might be a bit much, but who cares as long as the message goes through right?

The next day, when Ray brings out the snacks, he sees that Alex stiffens in Willie's arms on the couch, but doesn't scramble to get up. He also notes how close Luke and Reggie are to Julie but he leaves worrying about that for another time, when she's ready to tell him exactly how that works.

"Thanks papi," Julie says.

"T-thanks for the flag," Alex pipes up.

"Of course," Ray says with a nod. "Here, no matter what, you're safe, I promise." He turns to go, but turns at the door. "I'm making spaghetti for supper, once homework and band practice are done. You're all free to stay if you want."

There's a course of agreement, and later, when Ray sees them all walk in, is happy to see Alex hand in hand with Willie, no trace of fear or shame in sight.

Sure, being a single dad to all these kids isn't easy-especially when most of them aren't his kids, not really anyways, but the feeling he gets from knowing they are all happy, healthy, safe, and most of all loved here makes it all worth it in Ray's eyes.

[variousqueerthings]

see, between this and the veronika and daniel storyline, that's what i think i mean about t2 being ultimately more hopeful than t1 and i think that hopefulness is a good choice for this one

the first movie really is showing a Situation. it's not really offering to contextualise outside of the fact that they're working class in a certain place in a certain time, and probably shouldn't, but then the second one is a story about a story. it knows there was the past, and they're all contextualising the past, while simultaneously telling a story about the present, and giving a sense of a future that is ultimately an unknown

there is no real "choose life" in the first film, just as mark points out, it was a sarcastic, angry, directionless, youthful wail at having nowhere to go and being disgusted at the fake promise of capitalism, which in and of itself isn't real either, and so what else is there to do but live day by day, doing drugs, no past, no future, just right now

there is a genuine life to choose in the sequel, and i much prefer that to sequels that go the bitter "it's all downhill forever kids" route.

maybe they can make good for each other in some strange way, make up for the past, or at the very least find catharsis after so long of being defined by it

daniel can stand up for himself and find self-esteem and make up with his ex and son, mark and simon can forgive each other and make choices that don't fuck each other over and reconcile with a parent, and frank... well, frank was probably the most fucked of all of them, but he made the choice not to pass that fucked-uppedness to his son

and the enigma, veronika

she gets to actually choose life

it's not a perfect movie, i think it goes a little too hard trying to be artsy and cool in a way that's oddly out-of-touch to me (which in and of itself is kind of meta to the ways characters like mark and simon try to "stay young," and frank projects onto his son and veronika's whole narrative being about getting away from these fucking idiots), but i really do like it specifically as a sequel that explores these specific lives, and offers something different to the first one, a deeper contextualisation both of who they were when you first met them in t1 and where they were going to go

and i think veronika specifically is a great presence if one imagines this all from her perspective, i could talk about her for ages, because she's in a completely different story from the rest of them, but she wins, uncomplicatedly, let's all of these guys see her as one thing, only to reveal so much in the final shot that none of them ever knew about her, because they didn't think about what her story was. like fuck, of course she wasn't in love with you, you're 50-something year old losers! your projection was nonsense and the only person who saw her in some way was spud

thank goodness spud is okay also. very very okay

[hancockssunshine]

Blood on my name part 2

This was going to be a one shot and now I've got the feeling it's something much bigger

[Part 1 ]

Warnings: violence and plenty of swearing torture involved as well

I'm so sorry for any grammar or spelling errors I hardly slept last night but you know how it is when you have an idea and you just gotta write

"Come on, wake up." Soles face was ment rudely by a splash of freezing water. Pounding, fuck her head felt like it was going to burst. Sole opened her eyes and scanned the situation she found herself in. "I know this place." She thought as a wave of fear washed over her. She couldn't move her arms or legs, tied up. Figures.

A familiar face stood before her with the most distasteful shit grin she had ever seen. Her eyes drifted "one, two, three" . She counted how many figures she could make out in the dim light. The figure before her grabbed a tight hold of her face squeezing as he held her "eyes up here traitor." Knight Rhys this guy was down right the worst. Hated sole the moment she walked into the police station. Didn't matter she had saved his sorry ass he always had a remark to spat at her.

" I always knew you were jealous, Rhys but isn't this a little overkill?" Another blow striking her soft face. A stream of blood ran from the corner of her lip. "For a brotherhood knight you certainly hit like a child." Enough blood pooled and she spat it directly at his face. "That's enough." A booming familiar voice rang out. Elder Maxon and all his glory stepped into the room and made his way over to the poor captive. "You mind telling me why two innocent settlers were murdered in cold blood and why I'm tied to a fucking chair?"

Having none of her disrespect Maxon pulled his lazor pistol and pressed it to her chest "I am still your elder and you will speak to me with respect soldier!" After taking a minute to calm himself he spoke "When Paladin Danse recruited you I had my doubts, you proved yourself a worthy member and now we are hearing some truly troubling rumors." He took a fist full of her long tangled hair " Tell me why I'm being told that you, a brotherhood knight, have been working for the Institute." Fuck. She knew this day was gonna come, as hard and she wished it wouldn't. She knew she was caught. Forced to choose a side.

****

"I don't know what I'm gonna do, Nick. I've really fucked everything up."

The old detective pulled her into a loving embrace. The synth detective of diamond city, Nick Valentine was Soles closest friend and ally aside from Hancock. "You didn't Sole. Sure you joined one too many "clubs" but you just tried to do what you thought was right." He was genuinely trying to make her feel better but when the reality of it all came crashing down they both knew decisions had to be made and friends would be lost. "I believe in what the railroad is trying to do, I've always believed in helping others that could not help themselves." Decon. Oh Decon. Sole had absolutely loved their sarcastic banter. He may have been a compulsive liar but hey at least he was honest about that. "Then of course the minutemen, it's been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Really feeling like we have a chance to rebuild, to give the people a real fighting chance." Preston had been a real friend though, always keeping her on her toes with plenty of settlements that needed help. "And of course the brotherhood of steel." Hancock and Nick had both protested her decision to "join up" but Sole being the person she was, genuinely thought there was a chance she could help people with the wealth of technology the brotherhood possessed. And then there was Dance. Though a hard headed soldier at first after time became much more open and genuine even telling sole he was proud of her and to be by her side. She knew they wanted to wipe the institute from the world but what happens when that isn't enough? What happens when they decide to come after Nick? What happens when they decide to destroy Goodneighbor? And John? No way in hell would she ever let that happen.

After discussing it with both Nick and Hancock, Sole decided it was a safe bet to contact the minutemen to help her into the institute. Both the railroad and the brotherhood had intentions of their own. "Sunshine, you have to do what you want to do. You are always going out of your way to fix everyone else and their problems, not saying it ain't noble cause it is… but." There he was again keeping her level headed and looking out for her best interests.

John had reminded sole of what her true goal was. To find her boy. To find Shaun. The minutemen was the most neutral and reasonable solution. She knew it would probably upset the other factions but for once in her damn life she just didn't care.

Arriving at the institute and learning the shocking truth, not only finding her son but finding him as a 60 year old man. The boogeyman of the commonwealth was her only child. It was all too much for her to take in. Shaun offered her a chance, a real chance to start anew as a family but at a terrible cost. Sole spent a few days in the institute meeting everyone, getting to know Shaun and learning of true intentions how they saw the threat that was the brotherhood and the joke to them that was the railroad. Giving more for Sole to think about. More terrifying choices to make.

******

"So, is it true? Are you working with the institute?" Maxon shouted, making her tremble. "I have no idea what the hell you are talking about." She spat back. A hard fist met her stomach, making her choke for air "don't you dare lie to me! Do you have any idea how many brothers and sisters died at Bunker hill because of what you did?"

Bunker Hill. What a fucking mess that was. So many lives lost. "I don't know anything about that Elder.." A lie she hoped was convincing but knew wasn't. Shaun had told her of the planned attack to reclaim the lost synths.. they left for a reason of their own free will, she didn't want to hurt chances of trust with Shaun but how could she send them back to a life they didn't ask for a life without will. She did the only thing logical to her and informed the railroad hoping to get the synths to safety before the institute caught on.

Sole had no clue why or how the brotherhood had shown up but there they were for all out war. "Not only was it reported that you didn't exterminate those abominations but you had a monster.. A Ghoul with you that you gunned down a good man to protect!" Her blood began to boil. Had she known the brotherhood was going to stomp their way into bunker hill she never would have endangered Hancock by bringing him along. "I did my best to excuse your misjudged companionship with that thing but to hear you killed one of our own in cold blood to protect it disgusts me." The soldier had pointed his weapon at Hancock finger on the trigger she had no choice.

How much did Maxon know? Was he aware it was more than a companionship lord knows what he would do if he knew just how intimate their relationship truly was. It would put him at such a risk, a thought she truly couldn't handle.

"It makes me sick that you would side with monsters after everything we.. everything Dance has done for you!"

Sole hung her head low, Dance really had done a lot for her and it broke her heart knowing this whole situation would hurt him. She never intended for anymore needless bloodshed but in this world there was no stopping it.

"I'm telling you, I never told the institute anything! I'm not working for them, I don't know a damn thing about them!" His hand was still firm in her hair as he pulled tightly making her stare into his piercing eyes. "Enough of the lies!" A cry escaped her as he whipped her,chair and all to the hard cement floor. "Here's what's going to happen, you are going to tell me everything about the institute and how you got in and you can have the merciful ending of being executed by me for all to see for your treasonous acts." He reached for her bruised body, sitting the chair up once more. " or, if you choose this path of lying and silence you will be moved to a cell. Hung by your arms, tortured daily making a cut for each brotherhood life lost because of you. Then when you just can't take it anymore, we are going to take a little trip to that cesspool of a town and burn it to the ground while you watch and listen to the screams of each monstrosity lost. Then,I'm going to go get the mayor and make damn sure that freak knows who caused him to lose everything he built." Tears filled her eyes burning as they ran down into her open wounds. "I'm going to place him on his knees before you and gut him like the monster he is."

Sole trashed and pulled at her restraints praying for any bit of slack, the pain in her heart imagining the terrible picture Maxon had painted for her, she knew how much the brotherhood hated Ghouls but to destroy a whole city full of innocents was unfathomable.

She had to make a choice, give up the institute? Her son? The one she had come so far to find again only to lose him like this absolutely blindsided by his own mother? Or give up Hancock, the one man that she truly loved. The man who protected her and gave her shelter when she had none. The man who stood beside her as she confronted the man who destroyed her family. The man who held her and kissed her and loved her like she was the most precious thing in the entire universe. The one she truly wasn't sure she could ever live without. And what of Goodneighbor and all of its people? Fahr? Kelo? Daisy? Oh God and Kent poor sweet Kent. The tears flooded down her face now oh God what the hell was she going to do?

"Elder!" A voice rang out breaking her from her terrible thoughts ``There's something out here you need to see, some freak with a shotgun is lookin for the traitor." Maxon looked back to her, her eyes widened with pure horror and panic. He can't be here, not alone God no. "John…" lips trembling as his name rolled off her tongue. "Well. Looks like this is playing out better than previously expected. Bring him in."

End of part 2! I really hope you enjoyed it! This just all kinda came to me tonight and I just spent the last 4 hours writing it 🤣 so excited for what is to come!