#not to mention the ‘protect trans kids’ sigh she has in her room

[aceftw]

Gwanda?!?!

[on-a-lucky-tide]

Post-Surgery Day 35 (but three days late)

cw: surgery, bodies, medical

- Good news! The wound separation in my nipple has healed closed and scarred up, and all the scabs are gone. I'm so, so frickin' happy and glad I kept my anxiety in check over it. There were so many times I wanted to pull the scab away and see the damage, or send a billion questions to the surgeon. But I trusted what the nurse told me to do, and it's fine.

- I've been a biiiit naughty with the reaching and the stretching and I've got a bit of a ache in my ribs, like, just beneath the incision? I think it's muscular in that I've obviously been hunched over and fairly stationary while I heal. I figure I'll be getting some physio and exercises after my appointment in a week. The incisions are fine and neat AF, I can't remember whether I mentioned that the part under my arms is already so faint? I thought I'd need to get some tattoos to camouflage it but I don't think I will.

- Still chonk. Sigh.

- I am exhausted after my first week (and a half) back at work. I've been relatively good and not lifting stuff too heavy, or reaching too high. My colleagues have been awesome, and I mean awesome. I've received so many hugs and big smiles; they genuinely missed me, which... I'm actually shocked? I didn't realise how much healing I still have to do in terms of self worth. The damage done by a handful of people a year or so ago has clearly impacted quite deep. But, anyways, people keep coming up to me to tell me their kid is trans or non-binary or gay, or they know someone who is, or their kid's partner is... They are so excited about it.

- I have had one encounter with someone I think has terfy leanings. It was an assessor from a training body we use for our trainee teachers. She kept using my deadname, even though her institution has been updated. Now, I need these teachers to pass so I bit my lip. My headteacher, however, a big Welsh dude, informed her that if she couldn't address his teachers with respect she could leave the premises. I was... shocked. So was she. I was named appropriately for the rest of the day, and when I thanked him later he just said that some people have no class, and ambled off to herd some kids. 🤣

- My driving license came through! That's the second government body that has acknowledged my new name and gender. My bank is sorted too. I'm going to sort out the mortgage (second bank, land registry), the vehicles (car and bike) and my passport. The passport I am worried about because I've reached that they can be picky about the GIC. We'll see.

- I am delivering a conference for the first time tomorrow as myself and I'm actually a little bit nervous? I don't think anything of talking to rooms full of 100s, usually. I'm an expert in my field and that's why I'm there. But. As me now? The person I've had to keep protected and quiet for years? Scary.

- Six more days until my final appointment with my surgeon. I hope I get good grades in healing so I can go back to the gym. :3

[adhdeancas]

12x01 Rewrite with Trans Dean

trigger warnings for minor mention of dysphoria. Also minor/negligent transphobia. 

“Mom?” His heart is stopped in his chest, staring at the face he’s kept in his head for all of his life, the face he’s thought of as the only real home he’s ever had. She looks the same, exactly the same. “I… uh, are you really… real?” 

He reaches out without thinking, needing to just make sure that Amara didn’t bring back a fantasy or a ghost or a sick joke. She proves it without him touching her, flipping him in a neat trick he recognizes from his own training and ending up with her foot on his neck, pressing him into the dirt. “Where am I? Who the hell are you?”

She looks so scared. Dean swallows, his Adam’s apple bouncing against the bottom of her foot. He needs to make her trust him, preferably before she does something rash like snap his neck. “I’m Dean Winchester. I’m your son. I’m… Sam’s brother”

The pressure lets up on Dean’s neck even though Mary’s shaking her head. “No. No, I don’t have two boys. They’re- they’re just kids.”

Dean winces, breathing heavily. This is gonna be a motherfucker for her to understand. Still, Mary lets him up, and he stands and rubs his neck, trying desperately to recall every bit of information he’s stored away about his mom. “Mom. Listen to me. Your name- your name is Mary Sandra Campbell, okay? You were born December 5, 1954, to Samuel and Deanna Campbell. Your father, he bounced around a lot for, uh, work, and you bounced right along with him, and you ended up in Lawrence, Kansas.”

Mary flinches, the facts hitting straight-on. “How do you know all that?” 

“Dad told me.” Dean tells her. He doesn’t tell her that he had to gather the story from slurred words, drunken tears in between stories about the perfect wife. That he recited them in his head like a prayer so he wouldn’t forget her. “March 23, 1972, you walked out of a movie theater - Slaughterhouse-Five. You loved it, and you bumped into a big Marine and you knocked him flat on his ass. You were embarrassed, and he laughed it off, said you could make it up to him with a cup of coffee. So, you went to, uh,” God, what was the name of that stupid place? “Mulroney’s, and you talked and he was cute and he knew the words to every Zeppelin song,” A memory of a smiling young alive Mary comes to mind, and he pushes it away because it hurts. She’s right there. “So when he asked you for your number, you gave it to him, even though you knew your dad would be pissed. That was the night that -” You fell in love with- “that you met -”

“John Winchester.”

“August 19, 1975, you were married… in Reno. Your idea.”Dean had always thought that was hilarious. He looks her in the eyes again, pleading with her to not dispute the next part. “A few years later, I came along, then Sammy.”

“No, no. My oldest was a girl, Deanna.” Mary looks Dean up and down, taking in his short hair, wide shoulders, and flat chest. He crosses his arms over that now, uncomfortable, hoping she isn’t looking at his long eyelashes or his delicate cheekbones or his hips. All the places he’s insecure about. 

“Yeah, um… that’s me.” He looks up at her, his jaw clenching, waiting for the ball to drop. “I shortened the name a little, and the- uh- hair.” He tries for the old charming smile as he runs a hand through the spiky hair he hasn’t let grow out in 20 years. It doesn’t quite get there, settling at a more delicate need for approval. Mary doesn’t give it to him. “Do you believe me?”

She bypasses the question, turning her eyes away from him to look at the car behind him. Something changes in her eyes. “I burned.” She says quietly, like she’s remembering the heat. Dean swallows. He remembers the heat too. “How long have I been gone?”

“33 years.” His voice cracks. 

Mary looks back to him, and she moves forward, putting two gentle fingers to his cheek, to the freckles sprayed across soft skin. He’s had them forever, even when he was little. “Dee?” She calls him by his old nickname; Dean’s doubly thankful that he doesn’t use his deadname. 

“Hi, mom.” There are tears in his eyes.

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

“How did he die?”

Dean bows his head. He’s really not selling himself too good here, is he? First the trans thing, now- “He gave himself up for me.” He’ll be surprised if Mary wants anything to do with him. Surprisingly, she chuckles and sniffles. 

“That does sound like John.” He looks over, and she’s smiling. His brow furrows. Killing himself to save Dean’s ass does sound like John, but not in a way that makes him want to smile. “And he was a hunter? And he raised-” She stutters now, looking at him again and looking away just as quickly. “You and Sam to be-”

“Yeah, he did.” A cold weight is settling in Dean’s stomach, and he tries and fails to not let it seep into his words.

“And you said we’ve met before, when you traveled through time,”

Dean nods. It had been horrible and amazing to see Mary and have her see him, just as some guy. A guy, at all. “Twice. Your memory got wiped, so…” So you don’t remember me telling you I was your kid, and you not believing me. I do.

“And you’re… my daughter-”

Dean coughs. He hasn’t been called a daughter in a long-ass time. “No, I’m- I mean. I was. I know it’s a lot. And I’ll explain everything. I will. But right now, let’s get out of here. Let’s get you home. Come on, Mom.”

She doesn’t correct him, which means she must believe, at least a little bit, that she is his mom. 

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

“You live here?” She looks around the cavernous space and he smiles, looking around too. It really is awesome. 

“Yeah, when we’re not on the road. It’s an old Men of Letters bunker.”

“Men of Letters?” She scoffs. Dean grins a bit and looks at her. He thinks he likes her. “They’re a myth. An old hunter’s story.”

He tilts his head. He’s just gonna keep blowing her mind today, apparently. “Not so much. New duds look good.” He gestures to her clothes. He’d lent her some extra clothes he’d had in the trunk, and he tries not to fixate on how they weren’t that big on her. He’s not much taller than her, and he knows part of that even is the heeled boots he’s wearing. 

“Well, thanks. It’s better than walking around in that nightgown the rest-” Dean’s nodding, about to say something extremely awkward like ‘Yeah, nightgowns are a bitch,’ when he finally looks at what she’s staring at, spattered on the floor of the bunker. “That’s blood.”

 “Yeah.” Dean’s heart leaps into his throat, but he goes into autopilot before he can think about freaking out. He takes his gun out from his pants and cocks it, clearing the immediate area. A blurred sigil on the wall puts another bolt of fear through his chest. “Sammy? Cas?” He winces at how high his voice goes.

He takes the Map Table’s gun out from its hiding place and hands it to Mary. She was a hunter too, and he’s not about to leave her unarmed to clear the place. “Take this. Stay here.” Dean takes off immediately. It isn’t until he’s moving on to check the kitchen that he hears the voice. Mary’s clear as a bell, saying, 

“Hands, now,”

Dean’s in the room before he can think about it. His heart practically comes undone when he sees that dumb familiar trench coat. He puts his body between Cas and his mom’s gun immediately, hoping she will trust him enough not to shoot through him. “Whoa, whoa, whoa whoa whoa whoa whoa! It’s okay, it’s okay. He’s a friend, all right?” He meets Cas’s eyes and sees the utter relief in his eyes, and a surge of warmth fills his chest. “Hey, Cas.”

It’s a lackluster greeting when they both thought they’d never see each other again, and Cas shows it when he steps forward quickly and pulls Dean into a tight hug. “Dean!”

Dean grins and pats his back. “Hey, okay. All right,” He comforts him quietly. 

“Dean, you’re alive?” Cas pulls away and looks him over, like he’s afraid Dean might disappear. Dean nods, understanding; he had done the same thing to Mary, after all.

“Yeah.”

“What about the bomb and the Darkness? What happened?”

“I’ll tell you everything. Where is Sam?”

“He’s not here.” Obviously. Dean could smack him, but his face wants to break into a fond smile instead. He represses both urges.

“Are you a hunter?”

“No, I’m an angel.”

“He’s an angel.” Dean says over Cas. They look at each other and then back at Mary. 

“Come again?”

“An angel, with a capital A,” Dean clarifies. He feels, ridiculously, a little bit like he’s showing off. Showing Cas off. “You know, wings, harp.”

“No, I don’t have a harp.”

Dean laughs. “This is Castiel. Cas, this is… Mary. Winchester.”

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

“It’s been kinda weird, here. You know, with mom being back?” And learning that her baby girl is now a full grown man? “It’s like we don’t know how to act around each other, so we just kinda make this small talk, and act like it’s normal, but it’s- it’s so not normal.” Dean can hear the pleading in his voice. 

“What has she said to you?” Cas asks quickly. Dean bites his lip to hide the smile he’s trying to get from hearing Cas get all angry and protective on his behalf. He’s reminded of the time Cas looked him directly in the face and said, ‘Dean Winchester, if anyone is ever transphobic to you, I will smite them immediately and without any remorse.’ And before Dean could make a quip about internalized transphobia, Cas added, ‘Do not make me do that to you.’

“Well, nothing. That’s- that’s the whole point.” It’s the kind of thing most people usually wanna go over, what the fuck gender their kid is? He’s pretty sure no news does not mean good news in this context.

“Okay, what have you said to her?”

“Well, nothing. I’m- I don’t know what to say to her, y’know? It’s like it’s all too much, and I don’t wanna overwhelm her.” 

“Dean, your identity is not ‘too much.’” Cas says immediately. Dean sighs. That wasn’t what he meant, even though he has said something similar before. Something when he was lonely and sad and feeling like explaining his dick to a one night stand was too complicated for him to do to even assuage it that way.

“No- I know. It’s not that. It’s… everything.”

Now it’s Cas’s turn to sigh. “Don’t make things unnecessarily complicated, as you humans tend to do. I’ll call you.” He hangs up. 

Dean lets the phone fall with his arm limp to his side. “Yeah. Great. That’s helpful.” He says to the empty air. “That’s helpful.” Asshole.

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

They’re in the car, and Dean is driving, and there is too much going on. He’s not sure whether he’s happy that Cas is in the backseat for this conversation or not. “So you’re… my Deanna.”

Dean’s hands tighten on the wheel. He looks at them and ignores the voice in his head that says they are petite. Womanly. “Uh, yeah. I was born Deanna Jane Winchester.” He clears his throat and meets Cas’s eyes in the rearview. He gives him a little nod, and Dean continues. “I’m… It’s called trans.”

Dean risks a look over at Mary, and she’s playing with her ring. “So you… wanted to be a boy.” 

Dean clears his throat again. He’s pretty sure he does it every time before he talks, and he’s also pretty sure his voice gets lower every time he talks, too. He swears it’s an automatic reflex. 

“Dean’s soul is- that of a human man.” Cas interrupts, saying it like that clarifies things. The corner of Dean’s mouth tilts up a little bit. Cas did tell him that he could see his soul, and also told him that it was, and he quotes ‘A color more similar to that of a men than women.’ Which, yeah, that tracks. He guesses Cas leaves off the ‘more similar’ part to make things simpler for Mary.

“And so you…” Mary trails off, a finger pointing toward his chest aborting its mission when she realizes it might be rude. 

Dean raises an eyebrow with amusement. “Cut my tits off? Yeah.” He takes a hand off the wheel to raise his shirt, proudly showing off his top surgery scars. Mary trails a hand along them, feeling the raised skin. “After Sammy went to college. It was a bitch of a few weeks, but it was worth it.”

Mary takes her hand away and nods, brows furrowed like she’s trying to wrap her head around it. Dean grins. The grin freezes awkwardly, the edges tilting down, when Mary opens her mouth again. “So you have a-”

Cas coughs loudly in the back seat. Dean meets his wide eyes with a similar expression, and Mary cuts off the question, catching onto the fact she said something wrong. “Don’t think we really need to go there, do we, mom?”

That was a question for him and whatever lucky son of a bitch (gender neutral) ended up in his bed at the end of the night. “Right.” Mary says quickly. She turns her whole body then, asking, “Is that why you like men?”

Dean only swerves a little, he swears. The car coming the opposite direction doesn’t seem to agree, holding its horn long and hard. Luckily, it gives him a moment to stutter less obviously. 

“Sorry, I just meant- since you two are-” Mary gestures between Cas and Dean, and Dean blinks his eyes solidly, trying to convince himself this is really happening.

“No! I mean, we-” Dean doesn’t have the balls (hehe) to look at Cas in the back seat, but he can see the trench coat shifting out of his peripheral. “I’m not-”

“Was John okay with this?”

Dean laughs. It comes out bitter and dark. “Dad didn’t much give a fuck what I did with my body. He’d given up on grandkids about the time he saw how decent I was at hunting, so my long hair wasn’t a personal loss.” He knew I wasn’t gonna live long enough to give him grandkids, not without some self-sacrifice on John’s part.

Mary looks a little shocked at his outburst, and Dean almost feels bad for being so blunt and crass. But then he remembers growing up with John as his male role model, and he tightens his jaw. No, the bluntness and crassness was accurate. “Oh.”

“... Yeah.” Dean bites his lip and risks another glance at his mom. 

“So, you’re okay with this?” He waves a hand at himself. Asking if she was okay with him was just too pathetic, even for him. She looks at him uncertainly, a frown he recognizes as his own on her face.

“I don’t think I’m okay with any of this, Dean. But… I guess I’ll adjust.”

[goldenchan-fx2thepeacock]

Don’t Go Running Off Into Danger, Even If I Do pt 2

So, I have no clue what a publishing schedule is. So here, have more of this dumb fic at 11 pm. FUCK SLEEP! SLEEP IS FOR THE WEAK!

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Chapter 2

Danny and Jazz managed to finish just in time to put everything away before their parents got home. He’d actually managed to have a ghost free night. But the peace wasn’t going to last. And this wasn’t about ghosts. He got slammed into his locker.  “Hey look, it’s Fenturd. What’s with the dumb picture of Phantom? You’ll never be on his level,” Dash said and laughter broke out. Danny groaned. At least they didn’t know he was trans. He’d be beaten twice as much if they knew. The locker door closed and locked.  “Seriously Dash? I have to get to class!” He yelled through the metal.  “Whatever Fentina. No one cares! Oh hey, it’s fresh meat!” Dash went away from Danny’s locker. Danny had found out a way to make it so he could open his locker from the inside without it being outerwardly compromised. He jumped out. It was those kids from last night.  “Leave them alone Dash. They haven’t even been here for a day yet. The rules are that newbies get a probation period,” Danny crossed his arms.  “I don’t know Fentoenail. Would you like to take their beating?” Dash mocked him. Danny sighed. He’d have to do this.  “Any day,” 

Danny regretted everything. Dash had hit him twice as hard as normal and his locker trick wasn’t working. Everything hurt. He was going to miss Lancer’s class. At least his ghost sense wasn’t going off or something. Lancer wouldn’t miss him. Suddenly, his locker opened and he tumbled out. He yelped. “Are you okay?” The girl twin said.  “No worse than what I’m used to,” Danny brushed himself off.  “You didn’t have to do that,” The boy twin told Danny. “Yeah, I kinda did. The probation period is sacred. Dash knows that,” “Probation period?” The boy said. “A rule we made up last year. If Dash really wants to break it, I take the beating instead. Fenton gets to take the beating so the new kids don’t have to,”  “That’s not fair. You should report him,” “Nah, he threw like four perfect throws last night and is exempt from punishment,”  “Football?” The boy gave Danny a knowing look.  “Danielle- I mean Daniel Fenton to the main office,” The loud speaker said. “Oh come on! At least it was probably just a misread,” Danny was fuming. The beating plus being deadnamed was getting on his nerves. “We have to head there too,” The girl said. Danny shrugged and let them follow him.

Lancer called them all in at once. “Sup Lancer. Can I help you?” Danny leaned against the wall. “Mr Fenton. You and I both know that you need to show me more respect. W-what happened to you?” Lancer looked up from his papers. “Just a certain football star. Nothing I can’t handle. He broke the probation period,” “That’s a rule between students. I have no need to enforce it,” Lancer sighed. “I have no clue why you of all people were chosen for this, but you are too be Mr and Ms Pines guide around the school,” “Jazz not good enough for you? Had to pick the ‘slacker’ Fenton?” “Daniel, mind your tone. Jazz is our top student,”  “We all know I’m destined to fail in life. Can I get their timetables?” “Yes of course. Listen Danny, both you and I know you’re capable of better grades. I don’t understand why you don’t try,” Danny wasn’t in the mood for Lancer’s pep talks.  “I’ve got more important things to worry about,” Danny grabbed the papers and stalked off with the Pines Twins on his heels.  “Why didn’t he do anything about Dash?” the boy asked. “He has no reason to. Not like I’m about to ask,” Danny handed them their timetables. He’d seen that the girl was named Mabel and the boy Mason. “We’ll start with your classes Mason,”  “I prefer Dipper,” “I’m not calling you by a dumb nickname. Let’s go,” Danny growled.

Just as he was about to lead Mason to his first class, a royal pain in his ass showed up. “Daniel! I require your assistance, little badger,” “It’s bound to be another plan to get in my mom’s pants. Go away,”  “Now, don’t be like that. I’m the mayor after all. You should be honored,” “Plasmius, shut your goddamn mouth. I. Don’t. Give. A. Fuck,” Danny said so that only Vlad could hear.  “Well, something’s got you in a tizzy. I’ll ask later. I should tell you though, it’s about Danielle,” “What did you do to Dani?” Fury. Wait, he had to get the kids to class.  “Nothing. It wasn’t me. You should ask your ghost hunter girlfriend,” Vlad grinned. Fucking Valerie.  “Come on kids. You’ve got to get to class,” Danny ignored Plasmius. Valerie was going to die. 

At lunch, he purposefully turned into Phantom and waited for Valerie on top of the school. She took no time at all. “What. Did. You. Do. To. Dani,” He glared at her.  “I didn’t do anything to her! You’re going down ghost!” “Am I really?” Danny was pissed. She wasn’t getting any mercy today. He teleported behind her.  “What the... HOW?” “Where is she?!” He growled. “What do you care? She’s always off on her own,”  “Does it look like I care Valerie?!”  “How did you know?!” “I know more than you seem to think. Tell me where Dani is. NOW!” He froze her feet. She looked terrified.  “What’s wrong with you!? Why do you care so much about her? Ghosts don’t have feelings,” Danny lost it at that point. The laughter was dark. Hollow. Horrible. Val’s terror was visible.  “Don’t have feelings? DON’T HAVE FEELINGS? FUCK YOU! I’M SO TIRED OF ALL THIS!” “Phantom, calm down,” Val was terrified. Danny wasn’t done. The rings were threatening to come down and expose him to her.  “So you admit this is real? Would you like to know how it feels to die Val? How it feels to live on the line between life and death? Wait, I can’t do that! You don’t have a deactivated portal in your basement that I can make you turn on while your inside. I don’t have a stupid jumpsuit with your dad’s face on it so I can take off the that sticker. You don’t have parents that threaten to rip you apart molecule by molecule for just exsisting! You don’t have to see a future where you become evil because you cheated on one test and your family all died! Can you even begin to comprehend what I go through? Ever been cloned? And forced to do something incredibly painful so that one clone can get fixed and watch another get lied too? And that’s just the brunt of it Valerie. Keep telling me how I don’t feel. How I’m nothing!” Danny screamed at ice engulfed their feet. Val’s eyes went wide.  “D-Danny?” She said quietly. “Congratulations! You aren’t as niave as the rest of Amity Park! How does it feel?” He’d snapped. “Calm down! I’ll tell you where Dani is!” She shrieked. That hollow laugh came back. But instead of an angry rant afterwards, he just sunk to his knees and screamed. It wasn’t a wail. It was a scream of pain. Of being done with the world.  “I can’t do this anymore,” He sobbed and the rings went down. All that was left now was a beaten, broken Danny Fenton.  “You should change back. I’ll take you to Dani,” Danny nodded and followed her.  “Sorry I broke down. I’m just sick of people telling me that I can’t feel. That all ghosts can’t feel. You don’t even bother talking to us, ya know?” “Ghosts lie,” “And so do people! I’ve talked to the ghosts. Listened to them. Heard their stories. I protect people, but I protect them too!” “How do you know those aren’t just acts?” “Cause they make sense. I’d have the same response if it was me. If my parents burned down the place I was in because I got caught being gay,” “I’m confused,” “Ember. I told her I wouldn’t tell anyone. But you need to know that they all have reasons for being the way they are. Skulker’s family was hunted, so now he hunts to prove his strength,” “Maybe we should talk to you more,”  “Maybe you should. No one asks to die,” “But your parents say that ghosts don’t remember their lives. They’re the leading experts,”  “That’s like putting a ten year old in a room of babies. They’re the expert by default in that situation, but an adult would be the expert the moment they walked in,” “Why don’t we know about that,” “Dying is traumatizing. Even half dying is traumatizing. It’s taboo to mention it unless you’re told. No one explains it until they’re ready. And talking about a life before that is almost wrong,” “How did you learn?” “Skulker told me during the Christmas Truce. Ember told me one day when she just wanted to be left alone, but I did too. I guess things end up working out in weird ways,” “The Christmas Truce?” “On Christmas Eve and Christmas, ghosts have a truce. No one is allowed to fight anyone that day. The Ghost Writer broke the truce and Walker got to haul him off in just means,” “We really know nothing about ghosts, do we?” “No, you don’t. They even have a party. I got invited last year. Skulker let me make the star! It took me weeks to get it right,” Danny smiled at the memory. He’d made a scale model of a blue giant that went through it’s life stages.  “So there’s a whole society?” “A government. Systems. Main rules. Taboos. Just cause we’re ghosts, doesn’t mean we don’t have a system,” “I’m sorry,” “What?” Danny nearly froze. “I’m sorry that I made so many assumptions. I never should’ve chased you or any ghost like that,” “Keep them out of Amity Park and send them back to the Zone. Most ghosts forget that living is dangerous, so they just rampage. I keep trying to talk sense into them, but they’re pretty stubborn,”  “What about the dog?” “Dog? You mean Cujo? I was trying to stop him from trashing Axiom. He was trying to get a toy. I’m sorry that recked your life Val,” “My life? Wrecked? When compared to you, my life is a dream. It’s not like I died,” “I guess you’ve got a point,”

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Thanks for reading. I just like fics where Val finds out, and this one seemed like an okay place to stick it. Dani is fine. I’ll fill you in on that next chapter, but I should get some sleep.

[plus-size-reader]

Her

Beverly Marsh x Plus size!reader

Word Count:1745  words

Warnings: confession 

Summary: Reader is Henry Bowers sister and he finds out she has a crush on Beverly

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Henry made it his personal business to make sure that you were completely and totally taken care of at any given time. However, there were just some things that he had never prepared for. 

Your first real crush was at the top of that list. 

Never in a million years had you two had the conversation about boys, or in your case, girls.

...And you weren’t really itching to, if you were being honest. 

There worst thing in the world, as far as you were concerned, would be if Butch and Henry found out the truth about her. Though, it was really only a matter of time before it came out. 

After all, you could hardly function right around her, and it was sort of shocking that no one had put the pieces together up until this point. 

It wasn’t exactly something you were good at hiding. 

However, there was one day in particular that brought the whole thing into the light, and there was no going back after that. 

Belch and the guys were taking you home from school when they decided to pull over at the kissing bridge, on a hunch that their favorite gang of misfits was somewhere in the brush. 

And, as always, they were right. 

That only meant that when you chose to tag along, you found yourself face-to-face with her, and the rest of the Losers club. Great. 

This wasn’t going to end well. 

You kept to yourself most of the time, keeping your eyes locked on the dirt beneath your shoes with your hands behind your back. You knew better than to let your eyes wander up to her face. 

It would only make it worse. 

Instead, you chose to ignore the insults Henry and the others spewed in their direction and stayed quiet. It was the only way you could get through this without slipping up. 

If Patrick or someone else saw you ogling her in front of everyone, that would be game over. Though, perhaps you didn’t give yourself enough credit for how much you didn't care. 

After all, when Henry turned his attention to the redhead in question, you found yourself speaking up on her behalf without even meaning to.

“Shut up!” 

It was rather innocent, all things considered, but in the context, you were going to die. The implication that Henry had just made, about her being the easiest girl to get with in Derry, just didn’t sit well with you. 

 However, as soon as it happened, you wanted to die. 

...Like, literally. 

In an instant, all eyes were on you and you couldn’t breathe. 

“Everything okay?” Henry asked, his voice softened slightly when he addressed you, but not by enough to actually make you feel better. You couldn’t make him look like a pussy in front of the gang, so you nodded. 

“I just want to go home, I have homework to get done” you lied, shrugging as if that was enough to warrant the sort of reaction you had just had to their little exchange. 

Now, Henry knew that you were lying to him. 

Of course he did. 

All your lives, it had just been the two of you and Butch, so he had picked up on quite a bit of your tells, and it was impossible for him to miss what you were doing. 

Though, he didn’t out you right there with everyone around. He knew that if he waited until you were both home, you would be more likely to tell him what actually caused such an issue. 

So, he nodded this time, thinking over your words for a second before snapping for the boys to follow him back to the car. 

The losers club wasn’t going anywhere, so there would be plenty of opportunities to torment them without you there to witness it. They all knew that, not to mention the fact that no one was in the mood to deal with big brother Bowers. 

Not that that led to another other than a silent car ride. 

You didn’t have anything to say for yourself, sitting against the back drivers side window of the Trans Am, Victor on your right side. Usually, he sat in that spot, but Henry didn’t want Hockstetter anywhere near you. 

He had no illusions about what kind of creep his best friend was, after all. 

“‘You coming back out?” Belch asked, directing his question at Henry while pulling up to your house. Normally, they would have just dropped you off and left again. 

...But not today. 

Today, Henry had already made up his mind that he had to be a big brother first, and everything else could wait so he shook his head. 

“Nah, you guys go on without me. I’ve got shit to do” he shrugged, getting out unceremoniously, slamming the door behind him with little care for his friends’ personal property. 

That was it, but that didn’t, in any way, lessen the panic you were experiencing. If anything, knowing Henry was going to stay in tonight made you feel worse because you knew he’d have questions. 

Questions that you just weren’t ready to answer. 

Without looking back, you headed to your bedroom as quickly as you could, entering the house casually knowing that Butch wouldn’t be home until late. If you were lucky, you could make it there without Henry stopping you-

“Hey-” 

No such luck. 

“Yeah?” you hummed, turning back toward him without stopping your quick steps, hoping that he just wanted to call you a dipshit or something so you could get on with your life. 

However, Henry had woken up on the right side of the bed today, and he wasn’t feeling dismissive or angry. If anything, he was worried about you today more than usual. 

Which meant you were about to have a conversation...

A very awkward conversation

“What was that today? And don’t lie” he tutted, catching you before the thought could even cross your mind. That was the worst part of being Henry’s sister, as far as you were concerned, sometimes he cared and sometimes he didn’t. 

But when he did, that was the only thing he could focus on until he figured out the cause. 

“Nothing. I just don’t like you guys roughing up kids in front of me” you decided, Henry knew they were all in your grade, and it only made you look back when he acted that way. 

It wasn’t a lie. 

Not that Henry was satisfied by that. 

“Okay, what else?” he hummed, following you into your room now to sit down beside you on your bed. There was something else, he just knew there was. 

He just had to dig down deep enough to figure out what it was. 

You sighed. 

Henry was safe. If there was anyone you could trust with this, it was Henry, the guy who had quite literally taken a punch or ten for you, but you were scared. 

You had heard him tormenting other kids about their preferences in this regard and you were terrified that would all change once you were honest with him. 

...That could happen, right? 

Nothing said Henry always had to protect you, not when it came to something like this. 

“Come on kid, I don’t got all day” he teased, watching you think it all over in the silence. Whatever it was that was bothering you, it had to be pretty serious. 

After all, you never got this way with him unless it had something to do with Butch and Henry knew it wasn’t that. Butch hadn’t laid his hands on you in months since Henry got in a fight with him over it. 

He had nearly been hospitalized after that. 

Fine, here goes nothing. 

You took a deep breath, doing your best not to throw up all over the carpet. You had been hiding this deep inside for so long, that it didn’t seem right to just say it out loud. 

Though, you knew you would have to eventually. 

“I like her” 

It was hardly the way you had thought it over in your head, but in that moment, it was all you could think of. It was the only words you could force your mouth to make. 

...And Henry could work with that. 

He was confused, sure, but any jokes or cruel jabs he could have thought up didn’t even come to mind as he looked at you. You were his baby sister, and looking after you was his job. 

You were his responsibility, and he wasn’t a monster. This was clearly hard on you, and he wasn’t about to make you feel bad about it. Knowing you, you would probably cry, and he wasn’t prepared to deal with that today. 

So, he nodded instead. 

“Who? That Ska-” he started, stopping himself before he could rip on her again, just in case that was who you were talking about. You hadn’t taken that well the first time. 

“Beverly” you supplemented, rolling your eyes at him. It was the first time you had really called her by her name out loud, but it felt good. Especially in this context. 

Maybe this would convince Henry to stop acting so harshly to her. 

“Right. The redhead” he nodded a few times, thinking it over in his head. It was something he hadn’t been anticipating, but it wasn’t that big of a deal, not really. 

Shit, he liked girls too so he couldn’t blame you. 

“Okay, kid” 

There was silence for a second. You didn’t have the words to fill the space after airing the biggest secret you’d ever had and Henry was just trying his best to find it within himself to be the big brother you deserved. 

He might not have been the best out there, but he had always done his best where you were concerned, and that wasn’t going to change now. 

“Anyone fucks with you at school, and I’ll kill ‘em. Deal?” he decided finally, offering you a hand to shake which you did after a second. It was the best he could come up with and you didn’t mind. 

Henry was your brother, and you knew he would always have your back, even when he may not have understood. 

“Deal” you smiled, taking his hand in your own and giving it a shake before leaning in to give him a tight side hug. 

Now you just had to figure out how to actually talk to Beverly. 

[miraculoussage]

Breaking Out part 2

Rating: General

Characters: Adrien Agreste/Chat Noir main character; lots of other characters making an appearance, lots of Plagg, Marinette/Ladybug, and Gabriel

Relationships: (Minor) Lovesquare

Other tags: Trans boy Adrien, mostly closeted trans Adrien, transphobia (no transphobic violence), mentions of a dead name but no actual use of the dead name, misgendering, mentions of Dysphoria; supportive friends, Gabriel Agreste is a soggy tissue, minor redesigns of LB and CN costumes, major redesigns of civilian Adrien bc closet trans. Use of the word queer as an identifier and not a slur. TW for police but just barely.

Part 1

♪~ ᕕ(ᐛ)ᕗ

He ended up on Marinette’s balcony. It wasn’t uncommon for him to stop in on nights where he couldn’t come over as Adrien, but he tried to avoid visiting every single time Adrien couldn’t visit. Even with the glamour of the Miraculous, it was a suspicious situation. He made himself comfortable on a lounge chair, laying with his arms behind his head, waiting for Marinette to come up to the roof. Somehow she always knew when he was there, even if he’d been silent or he knew she wasn’t in her room when he got there. She was quick today, no snacks or drinks, no deck of cards, no sketchbook. She had her phone clutched in her hand, the screen open to a copy of Adrien’s post, and she was obviously stressed out about it.

“What’s up, princess?” He kept his tone light, but he felt guilty about making her worry like this, even if it wasn’t entirely his fault.

“My friend, uh, well.” In lieu of explaining Adrien’s gender situation, she handed her phone to Chat Noir, and he made a show of looking surprised. “He’s coming to live here. He ran away from home today after his father tried to basically imprison him for coming out. I know he didn’t want to come straight here because his father would check here first, and didn’t want to get us involved in this part. So I know he’s out of the mansion, and he says he’s safe and they won’t find him, but I’m still worried.”

“I understand that feeling. Even when there’s no Akuma and Ladybug isn’t transformed, I worry still. No one knows who she is, even me, but it’s a constant anxiety I think we both deal with. Her and I. The life of a secret superhero, right?” He grinned at Marinette. She smiled back briefly, but she sighed deeply. “Do you want me to go look for him, or do you want me to stick around with you for a bit?”

Marinette took the charm Adrien made for her out of her pocket and fiddled with the beads while she thought. “I think... I want you to stay here, for a while at least. Adrien said he was safe and I have to trust him on that, but I could use a distraction.”

“Is that all I am to you? A distraction?” he teased, happy to see her roll her eyes at his antics.

“Oh, yes, absolutely kitty. Nothing but a distraction. Wait here, I’ll go grab some actual distractions. And food?”

“Absolutely food. Bakery left overs and some fruit or veggies?” he suggested.

“Sure thing. Be right back, don’t break anything.”

He moved from the lounge chair to the small table, letting himself take some deep breaths and appreciate the warm late-spring air. Marinette was right, he didn’t want to get them pulled into the immediate situation, especially if his father decided to contact the police. He was sixteen and left of his own volition, but his father was... persuasive when he threw his name and money around. Adrien was safe, of course. Technically, Adrien didn’t exist at the moment, so no one would be able to find him anyways. Talking to Marinette was nice, but he would also love to have Plagg around right now.

Just as Marinette was coming back up through the trap door, tires screeched on the street below and a car door slammed. Great.

“Where is she??” Nathalie’s voice rang out from below, usual calm replaced with anger. Marinette rushed to the railing to look down to the street with Chat Noir at her side.

“Ugh, he didn’t even have the guts to show up himself.” It was clear that Marinette was not impressed with Gabriel; since meeting Adrien, her admiration for his work was completely overshadowed by his treatment of Adrien and literally every other human being. If you knew where to look, you could find testimonies from Gabriel’s employees, though a lot of them were buried by lawsuits and bribes. “I’ll go help my parents deal with this. Sorry, Chat...”

“I’ll meet you down there,” he said with a smile and a wink. “Superheroes protect people against villains, after all.” The small laugh he got out of her lit his heart up. As long as he could help it, Marinette would never face trouble alone.

Vaulting over the railing, Chat landed between Nathalie and the front door of the bakery. “I’m pretty sure the bakery is closed by now, you’ll have to wait for tomorrow to get a dacquoise!” He kept up a signature Chat Noir grin and casual pose leaning against the bakery door.

Nathalie, to her credit, was thrown off by one of Paris’s superheroes, anger morphing into shock for a moment before she was back on her mission. “These people are hiding a runaway minor!”

“Runaway? Hey, you’re Adrien Agreste’s babysitter, right?” He squinted as if trying to place her face.

“Babysi- Adrien?? That is not her name!” Nathalie’s fists were clenching. If Adrien didn’t know better, he would think she was about to punch him. If he had any less self control and moral obligations, he would probably punch her. “She is to come home at once and these people are enabling this tantrum!”

“The only tantrum I see is yours, madam. I think it would be best if you leave.” His smile fell, and he watched as a police car pulled up to the curb, and Roger stepped out.

“What seems to be the problem, madam?”

Nathalie rehashed everything to the officer. During her shouting, all three of the Dupain-Chengs came around the side of the building, only somewhat confused. Mostly, they looked frustrated. “Adrien isn’t here,” Marinette interrupted Nathalie’s ranting.

Before Nathalie could attack a teenager, Roger held up his hands to placate each group. “Okay, okay. Listen. I can search the building if you consent, Sabine, but otherwise there’s nothing I can do unless there’s a warrant.”

“Of course, we aren’t hiding anyone or anything. But Madmoiselle Sancouer is not invited inside, I’m sure you understand. Chat Noir, would you be a dear?” Sabine smiled at him, and he bowed dramatically in turn.

“My pleasure, Madame Cheng.” He would do anything for Sabine, even if she asked him to climb the Louvre and dance the Cotton-Eyed Joe on the top. This was no problem.

Nathalie paced on the sidewalk, scowl everpresent. The car was empty, he guessed his bodyguard was out looking elsewhere. It didn’t take long for Roger to sweep the building; Adrien obviously wasn’t there. He said as much to Nathalie. Before she could argue, Chat gestured towards her car. “Adrien isn’t here, like they said. Au revoir madmoiselle.”

When Nathalie gave in and drove away, Roger excused himself as well. “I’m sorry you had to deal with that.” Even as Chat, he had a friendly relationship with them. It wasn’t exactly odd that he’d helped them out with a personal situation. “What was that all about anyways, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“Well, Adrien Agreste, you must have seen his post,” Tom started, and Chat smiled at Marinette, “his father is not a good man. Adrien is coming to live with us. He isn’t here right now because he has some things to do before it’s official.” Tom rubbed the back of his neck. “We’re all worried about him, though. He lost access to his phone so we have no way to contact him, we just want to know that he’s alright.”

“I could try to find him,” he glanced at Marinette again, and she gave him a slight nod. “I’ll let him know what happened.”

“Can you bring this to him?” Sabine held out her phone. “We’d be more comfortable knowing we can reach him.”

“Sure thing. I’ll stop by some day soon to grab some snacks! Until then, stay safe, everyone.”

♪~ ᕕ(ᐛ)ᕗ

By the time the sun was far beyond the horizon, Adrien had gotten a room at Le Grand Paris as Chat Noir, texted Tom to reassure and thank them, and laughed with Plagg about how funny it was that he was asked to check on himself.

“Adrien. I want. Cheese.”

“And I want to be at home watching a movie and eating pastries, but we can’t always get what we want, can we?” Despite his words, he was smiling and already dialing room service. “Two wheels of Camembert, extra runny, the dinner special, and a pair of scissors, please! You can leave it outside the door. Yes, thank you.”

“Only two?! You’ve been running around Paris as Chat Noir for hours, I’m hungry!” Plagg draped himself dramatically over the top of the giant TV. “How will I ever survive on such little food??”

Adrien laughed despite himself. When Plagg grinned over at him, he realized he’d fallen prey to Plagg’s plot to distract him. “You’ll get more for breakfast, you bottomless pit. Be grateful I even ordered you two, I almost decided you could just have what’s left in my bag!”

“Okay, okay, two is fine! Don’t take away my precious Camembert, I beg you! We can’t celebrate without food!” Well, Plagg’s plot was working, because Adrien hadn’t felt better in weeks.

“Celebrate? Already? Nothing is confirmed yet.”

“Maybe not, but come on, kid! Three years ago this could only be a dream, and you’re making it happen!” Plagg spun around in the air, happier than Adrien had ever seen him without Camembert. “You figured out a plan to get yourself safe and happy and you had the courage and strength to go through with it! Even in the face of all the things that could go wrong. You still took a chance! Remember your first birthday as Chat Noir?”

“Yeah, duh, the Bubbler! How could I forget?” Adrien smiled. He loved when Plagg got like this, the rare times he shared his emotions.

“It was mostly rhetorical,” Plagg joked. “I wanted you to have a chance to have fun and freedom even if it meant letting an Akuma run around for a bit. He was barely dangerous, really, I knew you and the ‘bug could take him down easy-cheesy! And all the times I complained about you going to school? You had a chance to do whatever you wanted! You picked school every time and yeah, yeah, I get it now; your friends are pretty cool for humans! When I did all that I was trying to lead you to doing something like this, something wild and freeing! Maybe not ‘run away and come out on social media’ wild, but you got the freeing part right.”

“I think you also wanted me to stay home from school because you’re lazy.”

“Touché.”

There was a knock at the door, and two minutes later, Adrien rolled the tray in. Plagg didn’t even wait for him to take the cover off the cheese platter before diving in; Adrien actually took his time with his food. It was difficult, though. He kept glancing towards the scissors, excited and nervous. “Plagg, save some for later.” Lifting the cover of the platter, he saw Plagg had already gone through the whole first wheel. “I need your help with something.”

“Yeah, yeah, c’mon,” Plagg grabbed the scissors before Adrien even told him what he wanted to do, and flew off towards the bathroom. “I can’t promise it’ll be the cleanest cut with my guidance but I can at least help you get it sort of even!”

Adrien grinned and jumped over the bed, rushing in after Plagg. He stared at himself in the mirror, took the scissors from his kwamii, and let out a deep breath. “Let’s do this.”

♪~ ᕕ(ᐛ)ᕗ

Adrien slept soundly, free of his metaphorical and almost literal shackles. Or he would have, if not for the midnight Akuma. Plagg complained the whole three seconds between the alert and Adrien transforming, and all of the time Adrien was awake after defeating the Akuma, until he got his next two wheels of Camembert in the morning.

The Akuma wasn’t particularly difficult to beat, but it took a while. The Tracker was slippery, just like her prey. It was emotionally draining too, hearing his deadname and getting misgendered for hours by Nathalie. He couldn’t say he was surprised about her being akumatized, and Ladybug didn’t seem surprised either.

“Of course she’s looking for Adrien.” Her sigh was heavy. Midnight akumas really were the worst.

“How do you know about that?” he asked. If she asked how he knew he could always tell her he heard it from Marinette. It wasn’t a lie, after all, and Ladybug knew he liked to visit the Dupain-Chengs- it wasn’t much of a secret.

“Oh, uh, I saw his post, and I know how, er, overprotective his father is of him.”

The Tracker had already gotten away twice, following a trail that led nowhere. Chat Noir had to pretend he was worried that she would find Adrien, and keeping up that act on top of everything was really draining. He couldn’t help the heavy sighs that kept working their way out of his lungs.

“Chaton, are you doing okay?” Ladybug stopped him on a roof with a gentle hand on his wrist. It caught him off guard, and she steadied him when he stumbled.

“Why wouldn’t I be?”

“Just... well, this whole situation.” She looked around conspiratorially, but no one was around on a rooftop at midnight. “If I understand right, Adrien ran away because his father is transphobic...”

“.... Oh! Yeah, I’m fine! I’m relieved, actually. Proud! I’m glad he’s going to be out of that situation soon. My friend Marinette and her parents are helping him. It’s a situation I wouldn’t mind being in myself! Aside from the ‘being tracked down by an Akuma’ thing. Speaking of which, let’s go! We’ll have to search for the Tracker, we let her get pretty far ahead.”

He smiled when she turned her back. Her concern for him warmed his heart. He knew it wasn’t possible- their identities had to remain secret and they had to stay professional as superheroes- but he still loved her to bits.

It was only three hours later when he finally got back to the comfort of the hotel bed that he let himself relax and think. The day had been harrowing, but he had a lot of support, people who loved him. People that he loved back. Plagg, Ladybug, Tom and Sabine. Marinette. With no one around to witness it, Adrien covered his face with his hands and let out a frankly embarrassing squeal. He was going to be living WITH MARINETTE! As housemates, but still. All the additional time he could spend with her, shared breakfasts, doing chores together, arguing over which live-action Spider-man was best. (Marinette insisted it was Tom Holland, but Adrien knew the real answer was Andrew Garfield.) Maybe, just maybe, if Marinette got to be around him more often, she could... feel the same way about him as he felt about her.

♪~ ᕕ(ᐛ)ᕗ

Stick around for part 3! That’s right I’m not done yet

[twoidiotwriters1]

Pure Blood 17 (Sirius Black x F!Oc)

Words: 2,239

Masterlist:

Chapter 16 / Chapter 18

"What?" I look at him in horror and he nods.

"I thought I had mistaken her for someone else, but I swear it's her!” He shivers.

"You got to be kidding me…”

"Believe me, I wish it was just a joke,” He peeks a little out of the window frame where he can see undiscovered. In a quick movement he hides again. "Here it comes…”

I don't move and I think we both hold our breath. The others act normally, several students pass and I turn in my place and carefully peek through the frame.

"I think she's gone," Sirius checks. We both get up.

"Okay, that was kind of weird, but I really have to go, tell me later, Padfoot," James says, then leaves.

Remus, Peter and Lily approach us. I look at Sirius.

"Are you sure it was her?"

"I swear, if I was kidding, I wouldn't bother doing all this!”

Oh no. This is bad.

"Are you going to explain or not?" Remus says, totally confused.

I sigh and turn to them.

"Trixie is... a bad person."

“She's the devil," adds Sirius.

"Oh come on, it can't be that bad.”

"Yes it is,” Sirius and I say at the same time. I feel a shiver as I remember the moments with Trixie.

"Okay Remus this must be important if Persephone and Sirius agree on something that isn’t part of the plan," says Lily.

“Well, we met Trixie when we were kids, I think we were about nine or ten years old, she’s a pureblood, so her parents and ours were… friends. The thing with that girl is that- "

“She's the devil" Sirius interrupts again.

"Black, if you keep saying that, they won't believe us!” He rolls his eyes.

"No one will do it anyway, they didn't believe us back then!"

"Nobody believes children,” I shake my head and continue. "Anyway, at first we thought she was a good girl, always helping everyone, she was laughing at our jokes and she even helping in some mischief, but it was all a hoax.”

"She has this ability that… I don't know, she plays with your mind, then she starts acting strange and does something horrible, but it makes it seem like it was you!”

We were silent waiting for some reaction from the others. Remus's laugh surprised us.

“Wow, that was incredible, it almost made me think that all of this is true. Did you used to do this when you were children?”

"Remus, it's not part of a game, it's the truth!”

"Even I find it hard to believe it too," starts Lily. "If all that were true. You’re no longer children, perhaps the girl has changed. It was just that, some children are mischievous."

"Oh no… We were naughty, she was another level.”

"Stop laughing, Moony!" Sirius complains looking at Remus.

“I can't help it, your face is priceless. It reminded me of the time James accidentally shaved your eyebrow,” Remus lets out another laugh and Sirius growls.

"You don't believe us, right?" I say looking at Lily while Sirius fights with Remus.

"Let's say I believe a 50%"

I grimace

"Anyway, I have to go, if it's really Trixie, I want to get away as much as I can,” I say goodbye to them and leave the two boys fighting.

I get into the Slytherin the common room, but before I can continue to my bedroom, I hear giggles as I pass by some girls. I stop and see them, as soon as they realize it, they laugh. I frown, but I don't care.

"Look who came. The lioness pretending to be a snake,” says a blond boy. Thorfinn Rowle. I look at him raising an eyebrow.

"What are you implying, Rowle?"

"Oh, nothing, Singh,” The other students in the common room laugh. "Look at her, she's confused!” He says, then laughs like a sick seal, causing more laughter.

"If you're not going to say something smart, I'll go…” I fake a smile and return to my path, but the boy intervenes.

"Where were you now, Singh? With Lupin? Evans' dirty blood? Or did you have bigger plans with Black? ”

"Surely she was with Black!" Someone says in the distance, everyone laughs again.

"Do I have to tell you all my moves, Rowle?" All I want is to go to my bed.

"Not necessarily, we all know what you’re doing,” He crosses his arms and smiles as if he had said something interesting.

"Then why do you ask?" I say fed up. His smile disappears for a second, but he pulls himself together. "Is this your biggest attempt to make fun of me? really?"

"You are a traitor, traitors don't deserve to be in Slytherin.”

"Oh yeah?" I smile. "And why do they think I'm a traitor? because I don't make fun of others anymore? Because I’m not mad at losing Quidditch matches? Because anyone else is more interesting than an entire Slytherin room?”

Nobody responds.

"It's because you turned your back on your blood, on your family," says a male voice behind me. I turn to meet Snape. I laugh.

"You must know the importance of blood, right, Snivellus? Right, halfblood?”

“A halfblood who knows his place. You’re the one who wants to be part of something that is not,” I approach him.

"I don't think you know what you're saying, Snape. Do you know what your place is? I don't think so, right now you're aiming way above it,”

I smile. “If you knew your place, you wouldn't be facing me. Better go back to your potions and play for a while in some corner.”

I take a few steps back and look around me, all eyes fixed on me.

“Does anyone else have a problem with me? Because believe me, I don't care in the least, if I didn't care before, now less. Get into your own affairs, make a life and leave mine alone.”

Everyone is silent. I clasp my hands and bow to Snape, finally going to my bedroom.

I have to admit that I’m quite proud of myself for what just happened. Although my life has hit me hard, I must admit that my confidence was reeling, I didn’t feel completely comfortable with the attention of so many people, something I was used to before, but now… it seems like a great step.

I have to tell Jenna this, and then Remus.

—————————————————

"Is it my imagination or did I just see Trixie Jones?" Regulus says sitting down across from me at the Slytherin table.

"Where!?" I squeal as I duck under the table, revealing only part of my head and eyes. Reg laughs at my reaction.

"Don't tell me you’re still afraid of that girl.”

I look everywhere and little by little I sit again, but I'm still attentive.

"It is not fear... it’s- agh, it doesn’t matter. You won’t believe me, you didn’t do it back then…”

"Well, forgive me for not believing that a 10-year-old girl was guilty of my house catching on fire," I cross my arms and pout.

"I'm sure it was her, but, anyway, where did you see her?" He turns a little and points to the Ravenclaw table. I nod. "It makes sense.”

"Haven't you said hi?” He says in a mocking question.

"Very funny.”

"You know you're not 10 years old anymore, right? Could you talk to her?”

"Sure and suddenly I cut off my head,” I say. ”No thanks, I want to live.”

He rolls his eyes.

"I remember she was good to me, and she gave me sweets," He says, smiling.

“That's part of her plan, Reggie. First she has to win you, then she makes her malicious work.”

“You’re impossible. Can we go to class?"

I growl and nod.

—————————————————

The rest of the day was pretty calm... until it was time for potions class.

“Very well, welcome to a new school year, my students. As you know, the most important exams are this year, so I will do the buddy assignment from now on.”

The teacher began to say names and each one sat down with his partner, Jenna had Lily, that's fine. I feel déjà vu, but this time it is much worse.

"Remus Lupin with... Trixie Jones"

I feel a strong pain in the chest. Damn, me worrying about protecting Remus from my family, I didn't see this coming.

The brunette is a few places ahead of Remus, so she turns to find her new partner. Remus, as he is a damn good person, raises his hand to meet her. She smiles and sits down next to him.

"Sirius Black with, well, this is no surprise to anyone, but since last year, I have found my best students," He laughs as he touches his belly, but seeing that no one else is laughing, clears his throat. "Sirius Black and Persephone Singh.”

It doesn't take long for Sirius to run to my place, he practically throws his books on the table and sits down.

"Am I the only one who heard the tragedy?" He asks agitated

“Trixie's with Remus. He’s going to die, Black,” We both look at the couple, but suddenly the brunette turns and sees us. Neither can react, Trixie smiles and waves at us and then returns to Remus.

"Oh, he's so dead," adds Sirius.

The class continues and during all the time I couldn’t concentrate on what Slughorn says, my gaze always returned to Trixie.

Who sometimes giggles and gets very close to Remus, while he just blushes and laughs too. I clench my teeth every time I hear them. Sirius is also tense with this situation, and he growls as he sees them.

Potions ends and everyone begins to leave. Sirius and I are waiting for the others outside the room and as soon as I see Remus, I run to him and hug him. The brown-haired man seems surprised, but accepts it.

"Everything okay, Percy?"

“Are you injured? Did she do something to you?”

"Oh, don't tell me that this Trisha was in class," says James coming to our side along with Peter, then Lily and Jenna arrive.

"Her name is Trixie and yes, she is... Remus' new partner" I say when I separate from my friend, who scratches the back of his neck, a little nervous.

"Guys, I know what you think, but it doesn't seem like such a bad person. It was actually fun talking to her,” I look at him take a few steps back.

"That is her move, Moony,” Sirius points out. "First she’s a good person, when she’s confident and have some secrets from you she’s going to wait for the right moment to attack."

"Isn't that the snake's move?" says James.

I roll my eyes and ignore it.

"Don't you think you’re exaggerating a bit?" Lily adds.

"Wow, wait," says Jenna, stepping forward and looking at me. "Trixie Jones?" It seems the memories come to her. "You've already mentioned her before, P... Are you telling me that that sweet girl is the same monster that you told me about?"

"Sweet?"

“Yes, I’ve also spoken to her. She was just transferred from Beauxbatons, she looks like a pretty charming girl. ”

"Nobody listens to us?" Sirius complains.

"I can't believe it," Says a different voice. We all turn to see her. Trixie Jones. "Sirius Black and Persephone Singh!” The girl smiles, then jumps in place and claps her hands with joy.

Oh, this is my end.

The girl approaches until we’re in front of her and analyzes us from top to bottom, she stops at Sirius.

“Wow, time has been an ally for you. You were cute when we were younger, Sirius, but now,” She approaches him. “You’re handsome. Look at those eyes! Surely many girls are behind you. Well, that's what they told me and I was not surprised,” Now she observes me. “And you, my dear Persephone, as beautiful as ever, knew that you were going to become a charming woman.” Those comments are usually made by our aunts.

She stays in the middle of both and then she raises her arms and wraps us in a big hug. Touching part of her skin, I can't help but feel a chill. The hug did not last long and sets us free.

"H-hi Trixie," I say with a fake smile. "I thought I would never see you again."

She laughs, seems not to notice that my comment was not friendly at all.

"I know, since I moved to France we haven't been able to communicate, but don't worry, princess!"

I groan at the stupid nickname she always used with me. I never liked it.

"I'm back, I’ll continue my studies at Hogwarts.”

Neither responds, it seems that we were frozen in our places, so the others decide to interrupt.

"Trix, let me introduce you to the others,” Jenna begins. Wait a second, Trix!? "This is Lily Evans, this is Peter Petitgrew, James Potter, and I guess you already know Remus,” Remus blushes a little.

"Yes, I already know him,” she says looking at him with a shy smile. “It's a pleasure to meet you, I hope we can be friends," Some Ravenclaw girls come up and say something I don’t hear. "Oh, I have to go, I guess I'll see you later" She turns back to us. "It's good to see you guys again.”

Taglist:

@treestarrrrrrrr @siriuslysirius1107   @thagreenmoon   @madmaiden2890 @bloodorangemoonlight   @ren-ela  @avipshamitra  @lizlil @siriusmuch   @may-rapp @chloe-geoghegan1 @reverse-hxlland  @auroraawrites​  @findzelda  @littledeadgirlwalking​

[thiswasinevitableid]

#7 with Sternclay, for the prompts?

Here you go!  I went NSFW

#7: I’m assigned to write a piece rounding up all the bad press that you, a famous celebrity, have been getting and you show up in my office and demand me to write a retraction and get the ‘real’ story”

Barclay is so excited; he’s going to be spending two weeks on the Dual Mesa set, writing an exclusive behind the scenes story that’s sure to give the magazine a big sales boost. 

“Ah, Barclay, come in.” Ned Chicane, the show’s director, ushers him into his office, “I assume they told you we will be leaving to shoot on location tomorrow?”

“Yes, I, uh, I’m really honored that you chose Q to run your story; your cast is so diverse, it really resonates with our readers.”

Ned waves a hand in faux-humility, “Why create a show with paranormal elements that simply recreates homogeneity? However, my dear boy, you were not chosen by me.”

“I requested it.” Barclay turns as a tall man with dark hair enters the office, and has the sudden urge to hide under the nearest table. The man currently staring him down with bright blue eyes and a mild-yet-clearly displeased expression is Joseph Stern, star of Dual Mesa and subject of a very unflattering article Barclay published a week ago.

“Look, Mr. Stern, I-”

“Quiet.” Stern holds up his hand, “I asked Ned to give Q a boost by granting access to the shoot because I think the magazine does excellent work. I asked for you to give you a chance to prove yourself.”

“Excuse me?” 

“Your writing is quite good, but clearly your research and fact checking needs some work.”

“Just because you don’t like it-”

“I don’t, but that’s not the issue. You published things that are patently false and easily provable as such. For instance, the claim that I got this role by sleeping with the director has two major flaws; one, Ned is not my type.”

“There’s no accounting for poor taste.” Ned says, clearly unbothered, 

“And two, Mr. Mosche would break my fingers if I tried to fuck his husband.” He points to the corner of the room where a large, tattooed man sits reading.

“Right you are.” He looks up long enough to reply. 

“And anyone on set could have told you that. Whatever your sources were, you didn’t do due diligence. So you’ll be trying again.”

“Look, buddy, where do you get off giving me orders?”

“By being the star they’d have the hardest time killing off.”

“And by raising good points.” Ned stands, “asking for a flat retraction would reflect poorly on the show, as it would look as if we were trying to hide the truth. This allows you to correct misconceptions as well as get exclusive looks at next season.”

“You’re literally a paid actor, how the hell do I know you aren’t faking these two weeks?” 

“You won’t be spending all your time with him; you’ll be interviewing others as well and have opportunities to observe him without him knowing.” Ned pats Barclays shoulder, “but he will be responsible for introducing you to the rest of the cast” 

Barclay glances at Stern, who lifts an eyebrow with a smirk.

“So. Have fun with that!” 

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

The introduction the next day goes as well as trying to light a match in a hurricane. Stern is polite and professional when Barclay arrives, introduces him to the cast and the main crew without mentioning the article. But it’s clear Barclay’s reputation precedes him.

“You really got Joe figured all wrong.” Duck Newton, who plays good-hearted Sheriff Frank Roosevelt on the show, pulls Barclay aside as Stern and co-star Aubrey Little (who plays Lucille, a plucky young woman with a dark past) get ready to shoot. 

“So everyone keeps saying, but I didn’t make that stuff up. It turned up when I researching him.”

“Don’t mean someone else didn’t just pull it out of their ass.”

“Yeah, yeah, I know.” Barclay sighs, rubbing his forehead. 

“Look, all I know is Joe’s been nothin but kind a professional to me. I’d even call him a friend. Know he can come off as intimidatin and rigid sometimes, but he’s a good guy.”

Barclay hears variations of this sentiment over and over during the next two days. It’s part of why he’s currently sitting inside his motel room not far from the main set, eating dinner alone. Indrid, the costume designer had actually invited him to eat with a few members of the crew.  Barclay demurred. If the bulk of the people on set think he’s a jerk, he doubts they’ll be that open to getting to know him. Plus, he’s kind of humiliated at how little actual evidence he can find for the claims against Stern, and doesn’t want to give the other man a chance to gloat. 

There’s a knock on the door, and he opens it to find the last person he expects, or wants, to see. 

“Good evening, Barclay.” Out of costume, Stern almost looks ordinary. There’s still the unfair symmetry of his face, the way he makes jeans and t-shirt look somehow sophisticated. 

“Uh, something you need from me?”

Stern looks past him to his cobbled together dinner; Barclay’s a good cook, but the damn room doesn’t have anything more than a microwave. 

“The chance to buy you an actual dinner.”

Barclay’s about to point out that he’s not eating in the commissary tent because of Stern when the actor adds, “please?”

He grabs his wallet and joins Stern in the still-warm evening air, following him into the few blocks that make up downtown Sagebrush, the former mining town that makes up much of Dual Mesa’s background. He expects them to stop at the Mizpah, the sole fancy hotel and restaurant, but Stern guides him past it and into a kitschy diner. 

They study their menus in silence, the pleather booths squeaking awkwardly whenever one of them moves. 

Barclay orders the burger plate that comes with a slice of pie and Stern, surprisingly goes for an omelette off the all-day breakfast menu.

“Barclay I, well, it’s obvious we got off on the wrong foot. I want you to know that as much as the article upset me, I don’t want you to be miserable while you’re here. No ones going to shun you for what you wrote.”

“Pretty clear they’re all on your side.” Barclay sips his water, meeting Stern’s gaze.

“There don’t need to be sides; you want to write an accurate profile of what it’s like on set, and I want to not have my name dragged through the mud anymore. Those come out to be the same thing.”

“You seem real fucking confident.” Barclay narrows his eyes. 

Stern’s hackles go up, but then he sets his hands on the table with a measured breath, “I don’t pretend to be perfect, Barclay. I’m aware, well aware, of my flaws. But none of those flaws match what you wrote about me. I’m not asking to look untouchable in your piece, I’m asking to look like myself.”

Barclay looks down, spots him nervously shredding his napkin. As he’s thinking, a teenager in a tricolor tank-top approaches the table. 

“Um, sorry, but are you Joseph Stern? The guy who plays agent Hooper?”

Stern smiles, genuine and reassuring, “I am.”

“Could I, uh, get a picture? Like a selfie?” 

“Of course.”

Barclay watches Stern pose with the kid and compliment his pride shirt, before waving goodbye as he scurries back to his table to show his friends the photo.

“That doesn’t bother you?”

Stern shakes his head, “It happens pretty often, especially in town where most people know what I look like in my street clothes, so I’m used to it. Besides, for a lot of these kids there’s more than just the celebrity angle. I can count the number of gay, trans, Asian-american actors on T.V when I was kid with one hand,” He holds up a fist to indicate a zero, “if the price of being that person for kids now is posing for some pictures, I’ll pay it any day.”

Warmth blooms in his chest, the sincerity making him want to trade a truth in return, “Yeah, I remember looking for guys like me and not seeing them. I’d just pick a character I liked and kinda projected. Except the X-Files; then I just had a huge fucking crush on Mulder. Oh, thanks.” He smiles at the waitress as she sets his food down.

“I know that feeling. Somewhere there are pictures of me dressed as him for a Halloween party.”

“Heh, I haven’t dressed up for Halloween in ages.” Barclay munches on a fry, “Last three times I went as Bigfoot. It was an easy costume and kept my face hidden.”

“That’s a shame for the other party-goers.”

Barclay coughs, choking on his fry, as Stern blushes, shoves a piece of toast into his mouth, and changes the topic to books. 

The next day, when Barclay arrives on location and everyone is milling about getting ready to shoot, Stern pats the chair near his own and talks with him until he’s needed on camera. Over the next week, Barclay finds himself next to Stern more often than not, comparing notes on the mystery novels they’ve been passing back and forth, or explaining his job moonlighting as a cookbook editor, or listening to the actor describe his travels to the locations of famous cryptid sightings. What surprises him most is how charming he finds Stern when he’s nowhere near a camera. On set, in character as Special Agent Alex Hooper, he radiates the quiet charm that makes his character so beloved. When they’re alone it’s different, a little less polished and little nerdier, and rather than captivating him it makes Barclay want to protect him.

It turns out that slips of the tongue happen to Stern a lot, at least when he’s around Barclay. “Sec” routinely becomes “sex” and comments about Barclay’s size and strength come often, Stern always sheepish afterwards. As if his attention is something Barclay may not want rather than something he craves like a four-course meal. 

When he starts daydreaming about asking Stern back to his motel room after one of their now-regular dinners together (that Stern always pays for), he knows he’s in trouble. 

“Helllloo?” 

He jumps, chuckles in surprise as Aubrey finishes waving her hand in front of his face, “Sorry, was thinking about dinner.’

“I was saying thanks for coming out while we shoot this. I know how hard it can be to pull away from your ‘muse’.” She wiggles her eyebrows and Barclay feels the blush overrun him. 

“Don’t worry, I’ll let him figure it out on his own.” Aubrey winks, the groans, “aw fuck here he comes.”

Robert Hayes, who plays the recurring role of Hooper’s supervisor, appears in the grove where they’re shooting a scene with just him and Aubrey. Barclay steps out of frame, Aubrey hissing “don’t leave me” as he does.

“I can’t believe Ned is letting Indrid do more alternative looks for you.”

“It works for Lucille.”

“It would work better if she was more conventionally attractive.”

Barclay growls under his breath; how dare this guy talk to his friend that way?

“Well, obviously not, because the audience likes me like this. And they have opinions worth listening too.”

The tension remains throughout the shoot, Barclay tensing every time Hayes opens his mouth. He pretends to be busy when the actor comes over to join him. 

“I’m glad you’re planning on expanding your take-down of Stern.”

“I never said that. I’m writing about the new season of the show.”

“If you want more information about what he’s really like, I’ll be happy to chat with you in private.” The older man pats his shoulder and heads off to his trailer. 

Barclay waits until he’s gone, then goes to look for Ned. He has a hunch the director might like to know about Haye’s offer. 

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

“...guess Ned put him in his place.” Stern finishes adjusting his tie as the scene sets up, “Sounds like he wanted his character to become the eventual lead, and thought shit-talking me would be the way to go.”

“I’m glad it’s sorted out.” Barclay pretends to be studying his notes so he doesn’t stare too noticeably at Stern’s ass.

“Me too. Thanks, Barclay.” Stern steps onto set, and as Ned begins running through the scene with Stern and the actor playing his (unbeknownst to him) alien lover, Bee, Barclay wishes he’d chosen to be elsewhere. Because this is a sex scene. With Stern. That he will be watching. 

No, damn it, he’s a professional. His butt is staying in this chair.

He makes it through the several takes of the dialogue just fine, starts sweating a little when he kissing begins. Stern’s kisses strike a balance between tender and passionate, perfectly in character, and Barclay would give his right arm to trade places with Bee. 

The action moves to the bed, Stern caressing his lover as they unbutton his shirt.

Okay, now he’d give his right arm and leg to be the one beneath him. 

He reminds himself this airs on TNT, not HBO, so it can’t get much more explicit.

Sterns whole body drips with soft dominance as he pins Bee to the bed, cooing that he’s never seen a finer sight.

Fine, his right arm, leg, and any non-vital organs, he’ll trade them all in a second to hear Stern say that to him, even if it’s only pretend. 

He doesn’t make it through the second take of the bed scene, hurries away as quietly as unobtrusively as he can. There’s no way he can make it to his motel like this, cock pressing so hard against his jeans he’s afraid he’ll end up with a zipper mark. And the bathrooms aren’t exactly private. He does have the key to Stern’s trailer, the actor having given it to him in case he needed somewhere air conditioned to rest from the heat. The trailer that is very nearby.

Does he dare?

The question hardly registers before he’s at the door, unlocking it and ducking inside before anyone sees. He leans against the counter with a groan, unzipping his pants and praying the pre-cum that immediately streaks his hand hasn’t made a noticeable spot in the denim. 

He fumbles around to find some tissues, not wanting to face the humiliation of Stern walking in to find him cleaning cum off of his cabinets (he does actually want that humiliation, and badly, but not without Stern’s consent).

The strokes are hard and fast, his eyes shut so tight he sees static as he imagines Stern behind him, saying how much he wants him, how needy he is, how he’ll take care of him. He grits his teeth, breath leaving him in faint hisses and stifled moans until the temptation to say Stern’s name overwhelms him. 

“Joe, Joe, fuck, Joe.”

“Yes, big guy?” A voice purrs in his ear as hands bracket him against the counter. 

“Fuck” He tries to freeze, finds he’s shaking too much from want and worry to do so. 

“You forgot to lock the door, silly boy. I, however, did not.”

“I’m, I’m sorry, I just needed to, fuck, I didn’t mean for you-”

One hand leaves the counter, strokes the base of his neck and toys with his hair, “what about this suggests I’m angry with this, um, development?”

Barclay whimpers, feet unwilling to turn and look Stern in the eye.

“Should I stop?” The tease goes from his voice.

All he can do is whimper again and shake his head.

The hand leaves his neck, slides down Barclay’s arm to rest atop his hand on the counter. The other takes it’s time snaking down his stomach and hips.

“Poor Barclay, no wonder you had to leave.” His hand nudges Barclay’s aside, takes it’s place around his cock, “you can probably see this thing from space. I’m taking this as a testament to my acting skills.” A laugh as he kisses Barclay’s neck, stroking him slowly. 

“Please don’t say this is acting too.” 

“It’s not.” A kiss to his cheek, a twist along his cock, both making him weak-kneed, “do you know what I was thinking about during that scene? I was thinking about you, what you’d look like if I fucked you. It’s only a quirk of anatomy” he grinds against Barclay’s ass,  “that means I didn’t have a noticeable reaction on camera.”

“Fuck, Joe, more, please I need more of you, all of you, I’m so fucking close.”

The hand on his cock pulls away, “not just yet, big guy. Do you want me to fuck you?”

“Uhuh.” He whines, pushing his hips forward to bump his cock along Stern’s hand. 

A light smack on the ass, “behave. Take everything off and wait for me on the bed.”

“Uh huh.” He turns, only for a hand to firmly grasp his chin and force him to stay eye to eye with Stern.

“Try that response again, big guy, with better manners.”

“Y-yes, s-sir, I, I understand.” 

He’s yanked into a demanding, possessive kiss, Stern stroking his cheek approvingly when he releases him, “Good boy. Is this alright?”

“Yes, yesyes, Joe, please, I love it, don’t stop.”

“I won’t, unless you say so. Promise you will if you need to?”

“I swear, cross my heart, babe, please.”

A loving laugh, coupled with a peck on the lips, “bed.”

Barclay strips so quickly he loses his balance, landing on the bed as he fights to pull off his pants. He tries to calm himself by folding his clothes and setting them aside, certain that if he gets more excited he’ll become the first confirmed case of human combustion.

“Hands and knees, please.” 

“Oh fuck me.” 

Stern is standing by the bed, naked from the waist down save for a strap-on, but still in his special agent clothes from the waist up. 

“Do you like the suit, big guy?”

“Yessir.”

“Good to know. Maybe next time I’ll wear the whole thing while I fuck you. Now” he climbs onto the bed, “try to relax for me.”

A condom-covered finger presses against his ass as soon as he’s on his hands and knees, Stern working him open efficiently yet gently until he’s begging for more. Stern ruffles his hair, and then the toy is pushing into him. It’s narrow, so the stretch isn’t too bad, and for a moment he wonders if it will even do much for him. 

“Let me see, if I just-”

“FUCKfuck”  The curve of the toy finds his prostate.

“That’s part of why this is a favorite of mine, it’s so effective” he thrusts harder, “at finding the right spots.”

“Mhhhmmmmm” Barclay bites the pillow to muffle his moans and growls, wiggles his hips as Stern finds his pace. 

“The other reason I like it…”

“SHIT, babe, baby, ohfuck that’s good.” The toy vibrates, sending heat all through him, “fuck, I’m gonna come in like th-thirty seconds from that.”

“Thirty seconds? Let’s see if you’re right, big guy.”

“GaaAAHfuck, Joe, yeah, yeahyesbabeyes.” He gives up on being quiet as the actor rams into him, drops to his elbows when the intensity makes it impossible to anything other than moan and and grunt and take it. 

“That’s it, good boy, let’s see just how hard you are for me” Stern pants as he reaches around, teasing the head of Barclay’s cock, “perfect, you’re doing wonderfully, fuck” a groan of gratification as Barclay spurts across the bed, “messy, god I love making you come apart, even I might make you clean that with you tongue later.”

“Oh god.” Barclay moans, drool staining the pillow, as Stern loops an arm tightly around his waist and grinds, the toy still bumping and rumbling inside his ass.

“Nnn, Barclay, yes, hold out just a little longer, let me get off on this perfect ass.”

Barclay whines, sensitivity overloading his circuits and driving him wild.

“Just a little more big guy, fuck, fuck, lord almighty I’m close, c’mon, you can handle it, you can be good and take me as long as I need.”

“Yes, yes, wanna take you, wanna be yours, wanna serve you.”

“Fuck” Stern doubles over, hips working frantically, “that’s it, good boy, if you’re in this bed you, fuck, your only job is to please me.”

“Yes” Barclay sobs just as Stern moans into his shoulder. When he pulls out, Barclay flops, limp, onto his side. 

“You with me, baby?” Stern wiggles out of the harness, lays so they’re face to face and cups Barclay’s cheek.

“Mmhmm. Fuck” he pulls Stern into a hug, “I can’t believe we just did that. That was fucking amazing.”

“Didn’t take you for the sub type.”

“Everyone always wants me to be big ‘n dommy. Don’t wanna. Wanna be someone’s good boy.” He’s slurring, mind still a bit foggy. 

“You can be mine. In, um in not just a sex way, although it can be just a sex thing if you want it to.”

“Nope” He cuddles him closer, then it hits him, “you’re asking me to be your boyfriend?”

“Please?”

“Yes. Yes. Yes” He kisses him after each answer, making them both laugh. 

“It won’t fuck up your work?”

“I’ll ask Mama what she thinks, we might need to transfer the rest of the article to Thacker. Uh, maybe this is silly but, uh, can I take you to dinner? My treat?”

Stern kisses him, stars in his eyes and a hundred watt smile on his face, “that sounds perfect, big guy.”

[maidenof-thesea]

Snakes & Butterflies | Part I

Pairing: Jimin x reader

Genre: Soulmate Au!, Fluff, Angst, Smut (Maybe, still debating)

Words: 2.4k

Warnings: None

Note: Jungkook may not be my bias but let’s be real. He bhabie. And he knows it! I’m sorry, I know JImin is a main character and I have yet to introduce him but I promise he will appear very soon, all with good time. 

“Y/N”

“Y/N!” My mom yelled waking me up from my dream. 

“Why did you buy a king sized bed if you’re just gonna sleep on the couch?” My mom said already bustling around in my kitchen. Yuki, who almost looked annoyed, ran to the porch instead to finish her nap in the afternoon sun. “You do realize it’s already thirty minutes past noon?”

“Sorry, mom” I said stretching, exposing my belly. I went to hug her but she lifted up my shirt. “Hey!”

“You’re getting too skinny!” she said pinching my skin. “Why don’t you just move back in with me? I promise your father won’t mention marriage again. And you won’t have to take care of drunk tourists during the summer.”

I pulled my shirt down, feeling my face burn in embarrassment. Choosing to ignore her question, I sauntered over to the kitchen to see a pot of beans cooking and arroz already ready to go. I get a bowl to serve myself only for her to snatch it out of my hands.

“Don’t avoid my question!” she yelled smacking my hand when I went to reach another bowl. When she realized that I was not going to answer her question, she sighed in temporary defeat. “At least brush your teeth first.”

“Okay omma,” I said smiling, while running to the bathroom. 

“Did you watch that documentary on Netflix?” she asked, while serving me a bowl.

“Yea,” I said to the best of my ability while brushing my teeth. Once I reached for a fresh wash cloth in the linen closet, I saw my scar and I remembered my dream. Jimin. I know a Jimin, an old childhood friend, but he had moved away so long ago. But nothing more than that...I couldn’t even remember his face, let alone his Soulmate mark. So no way did I dream of a memory, but I must have dreamt of that because of my conversation with Fernando. “Hey mom, do you remember Jimin?”

“Jimin? That Korean boy you used to be friends with?” My mom said nonchalantly. “What was his cousin’s name? Jung-”

“Jungkook.” I answered. “The boy that looked like a-”

“A conejo!” my mom gushed causing me to widen my eyes. “He was so cute! I wonder how he grew up..”

She went on about how adorable he was that he must have grown into a handsome young man and that whomever his Soulmate was, was so lucky. I started to surf through my emails and I had an email from Jennie’s mom, sent this morning.

Hello Y/N, this is Jennie’s mom! I hope this email finds you okay! You probably already know that next week is when we open the cottage as an airbnb for the summer. I’ve attached a list of this season’s guests. They are all coming from South Korea this time! They should be arriving by next week but one did mention that he may arrive early since he is a student. You should expect him around 1 pm

All my love~

“MOM!” I yelled getting up from the table. “A guest is coming in 20 minutes!”

“QUE?! HIJA DE SU PU-”

“MOM! LANGUAGE!”

We started cleaning haphazardly. My mom was tidying up the living room, since she had already previously cleaned the kitchen. I ran up the stairs and got some fresh linens from a closet that I knew where Rosa, the housekeeper I had Jennie hire, kept them. I quickly sniffed them and determined them dusty. I ran back downstairs, almost tripping on the sheets.

“Be careful!” My mom yelled. “What are you doing?”

“Well Rosa doesn’t start till this weekend, so I’m gonna have to set up a room for them now!”

“You don’t have time to wash sheets!” My mom yelled as she stopped me from putting the sheets in the wash. “Just put them in the dryer with some dryer sheets and that should get rid of the dust.”

“You are a genius mom,” I said doing as she instructed. “The fridge-”

“I already cleaned the fridge and threw out old food cartons” My mom said. “I was planning on going grocery shopping for you since you work-”

“That’s fine,” I said making my way up the stairs to one of the spare bedrooms. “I’m off today which is lucky. And thanks, they may want to get groceries for themselves.” I started opening up all the windows, letting the wind in and the sun shine through. When I heard the dryer ding I ran for the sheets and ran back up the stairs and started making the bed. 

“Do you think they are running late?” My mom said dusting the furniture. “It’s been 30 minutes.”

“Jennie’s mom mentioned that he or she was a student at the university,” I said, putting the last pillow on the bed. “They may be taking public trans-” 

The doorbell rings and my body stiffen in surprise. I ran back down the stairs with my mom hot on my heels. In my hurry I had forgotten that my pajamas consisted of a tank top and shorts, completely leaving my arms exposed. I opened the door and a tall Korean boy stood at the door with a suitcase. I felt my heart drop and my blood run cold--speaking of the devil.

“Noona?” Jungkook said, cocking his head, his long jet black hair falling into his eyes. His front teeth were still the same as all those years ago. His eyes rank over my form and almost immediately, he zeroed in on my arm, the arm where my Soulmate mark should have been. Instead of surprise or even shock for that matter, his eyes were sad. Before I could even open my mouth, my mom grabbed my arm and swung me inside.

“Oh my! It’s my conejito!” My mom gushed with her arms spread open to hug him. I quickly scrambled to the coat closet to grab a jacket. “What a small world! Come on in, come on in!”

Jungkook giggled at her nickname for him and sauntered inside dragging his suitcase. He steps into the living room and Yuki then decides to greet him by rubbing on his ankles. His eyes widened in surprise and I quickly picked her up, my protective instincts kicking in.. 

“I’m sorry!” I say stepping back. “She isn’t usually this affectionate around strangers. Are you still allergic to cats?”

“No!” Jungkook said stepping closer and actually petting Yuki, to which she purred. “It’s fine! It’s not as bad as it was when we were kids.” He looked at me with a crinkle in his eyes. “I can’t believe you actually remembered that.”

“I’m not entirely sure how I did either…” I muttered as I readjusted the jacket back onto my shoulder. Once again, his gaze fell to my now covered arm. “So you are staying here for the summer?”

“Oh yes, me and my hyungs will be staying.” Jungkook said scratching his head. “They should be coming sometime next week.”

“Oh so does that mean Jimin will be coming?” my mom asked, handing him a cup of lemonade. “We haven’t seen you guys in forever, Y/N was just thinking about you and your cousin this afternoon.”

“Oh really?” He said sitting at the kitchen table. “It has been awhile, I actually just moved back to the States for school.”

“You guys moved back to South Korea?” I asked in surprise. I had always thought they just moved to a different city due to their parents' company. “I didn’t know that…”

“Yea,” Jungkook said sheepishly. “We had a family emergency.”

“Oh no!” my mom said sitting across from him. “I hope everything was okay!”

“Uhh..” Jungkook said nervously and looked at me with puppy dog eyes.

“Mom,” I said interjecting. “Don’t you have to head back home? Dad must be wondering where you are?”

“Oh you’re right!” my Mom said. “It was so nice seeing you Jungkook! Have a good time here, Y/N is such a good host!”

“Jungkook,” I said as my mom was gathering her belongings. “I already set up a room for you upstairs, if you want to settle in.”

“Okay noona,” Jungkook said smiling at me. As I followed my mom out the door, I turned around and Jungkook was looking at my arm, with a sad look in his eyes. So he saw, but his reaction was not what I expected. I closed the front door and my mom whirled on me. She smacks me on the arm.

“You should have been more careful!” She whispered/yelled. “What if he saw?!”

“He didn’t,” I lied. “I’m sorry, I should have been more careful.”

“Well, don’t forget to buy those temporary tattoos from my friend, okay?”

“I will mom.” I replied smiling while waving at her. “Say hi to Dad for me will you?”

She gives me an annoyed face and drives away. I look back at the house and I felt fear creep up my spine. Sweat started to bead at my brow, my fists were clenched and my heart was pounding in my ears. Shit. At this rate, I’ll have an anxiety attack. I took a deep breath and made my mind go blank. The sound of the waves relaxing me. I headed back inside and Jungkook was most likely in his room unpacking. As I headed up the stairs, the most angelic voice was singing, I couldn’t understand Korean but it was beautiful. Jungkook along with Yuki were in his bedroom and I felt hypnotized by his voice.

“Oh!” Jungkook said as he spotted me at the doorway. “Hi noona!”

“Hi Jungkook,” I said sheepishly, picking up Yuki. “I’m sorry about Yuki, she’s rubbing all over your clothes.”

“It’s okay,” Jungkook said, folding the last of his clothes. “She’s really pretty, so it’s okay.”

“I hope you’ll be comfortable in this room, I sort of just found out this morning that you were coming,” I said awkwardly. “I wasn’t expecting you guys till next week.”

“I’m sorry about that!” Jungkook said a little awkward himself. “I finished my finals early and the hyungs wanted me to come here early to get groceries and whatnot for them.”

“No it’s okay,” I said shuffling my feet. “If you want, I can give you a ride to the grocery store? I was thinking of going shopping by myself.”

“Really?” Jungkook said with his cheeky smile. “I would be really glad, I was planning on taking an uber!” 

“Yea,” I said smiling, his smile was contagious. “Give me ten minutes and I’ll be good to go!”

Once we arrived at my favorite grocery store, Jungkook proceeded to place a matter of things into his cart: seven loofahs, seven toothbrushes, seven men’s deodorants, etc. Huh I was gonna have seven guys living with me this summer. Great. Once we both had what we needed for the time being, we headed home. For the most part, Jungkook was acting normal, or at least wasn’t acting weird. Which was even more strange. From what I could remember people always had a reaction to my lack of a Soulmate mark. Growing up, kids were cruel, Jennie was constantly getting into fights with little brats that would call me loveless and all matter of cruel things. She was my only friend and even though she had a beautiful feather Soulmate mark, she never looked at me differently. Even when she had already found her Soulmate Lisa. They were on their honeymoon in Greece. 

We had gotten everything situated in the fridge, decided to just use labels on things we weren’t willing to share, but the rest such as milk, eggs and juice we would be okay with sharing as long as we would replace whatever we finished. Next I showed him where the laundry room was, so that he could wash his own clothes, at least till Rosa started working. 

“So I typically make meals every now and then,” I stated. “But you guys are welcome to cook for yourselves. We have a visitor policy, no one can spend the night but I’m okay with it as long as you notify me ahead of time.”

“Noona,” Jungkook said, blushing as he interrupted me. “How did you get this job?”

“Um well, my friend’s parents let me stay here under the condition that I manage it as an airbnb during the summer for super cheap.”

“Friend?”

“Yea, her name is Jennie Kim, Remember her?”

“Oh,” He said rubbing his head. A message dinged and my notification sound was BB-8’s alert from Star Wars. “Oh wow, you still like Star Wars?”

“Of course! Kylo Ren is my husband.” I said nonchalant as I read my mom’s text message.

Mom[4:58 pm]: Cassandra said you can go by tonight to get a Henna tattoo since the special stick on tattoos hasn’t come in yet.

“I have to go Jungkook,” I said slinging my bag over my shoulder. “Will you be okay by yourself?”

“Of course,” he said petting Yuki. “Will you be long?”

“Maybe,” I said glancing at the clock. “I have to drive to San Ysidro.”

“What? Why?” He said worriedly. “I heard that place is dangerous once the sun goes down.”

“I have an appointment with a massage therapist,” I lied, avoiding eye contact and turning around heading out the door. “I’ve been there countless times, I should be fine.”

“Y/N,” Jungkook said following me outside. “I am not comfortable with this.”

“I can take care of myself,” I muttered a bit annoyed. “I am older than you Jung-”

“Is this about your arm?” Jungkook said grabbing said arm. “Because if it is-”

“Jungkook,” I said, taking my arm out of his grasp. “I understand that you may feel obligated to me because we were childhood friends, but please don’t pretend that you know the first thing about me.”

“I’m sorry,” Jungkook said, taking a step back. “But I just don’t think it’s worth risking your safety.”

“I’m sorry too,” I sighed in defeat. BB-8 chimed again and I’m sure it’s my mom asking me if I was gonna go or not. “We can talk more about this when I get back. I’m pretty sure you have questions, especially with what’s been going on lately.”

“Can I at least go with you?”

“Look,” I swung my bag around, so that I could rummage through to find my taser, to show him “I got my safety covered, plus Miss Cassandra doesn’t trust outsiders.” 

“Fine,” Jungkook sighed, pulling his phone out. “At least give me your phone number.” 

“Fine,” I agreed, reaching for his phone and typing in my number. “I’ll be back for dinner.”

“Noona,” Jungkook said. “You want to watch Star Wars later on?”

“Yea,” I said smiling. “Maybe we can watch Iron Man too.” His eyes widened in shock and he nodded quickly with a blinding smile. How has he stayed the same all these years?

Prev / Next 

Masterlist  

[theyellmanfan]

Um hewwo! I got inspired by the ask talking about trans Aizawa discovering Midoriya is trans and I OOP.

Sorry it's not amazing, writing isn't a strength of mine. I had fun though and hopefully you enjoy the scenario!

Trigger warning for descriptions of dysphoria taken from my own experiences.

---

A heavy sigh escaped Aizawa’s chest as the coffee maker hummed to life.

It was way-too-early-o-clock and he was already mentally preparing a new excuse as to why he was going to be giving his homeroom another free study period today. He felt little guilt in needing the extra nap time to deal with the trial that had become raising 1-A.

Wrenching open the cupboard, Aizawa made to reach for the sugar when his eyes hovered over the pitifully empty container of cereal.

Honestly.

Why don’t these kids tell him when they are getting low on something? It’s as if they all just expect the grocery fairy to magically keep everything stocked. How were they supposed to take care of others if they couldn’t even manage to care for themselves?

Aizawa had half a mind to leave it to run out and let his students deal with the fallout when they had nothing to eat for breakfast. After allowing himself a moment to muse over his own pettiness, he decided to be the adult and pulled out his phone to begin a shopping list.

The pro-hero shuffled around the kitchen, checking each cupboard to determine what items would need to be picked up during his next grocery run. It wasn’t until Aizawa reached the first-aid drawer that he hesitated.

Out of ace bandages?

Again?

It wasn’t necessarily that uncommon to need to continuously replace the classes’ shared medical supplies given the nature of the hero course, but this seemed excessive. What was this, the third time this month? He couldn’t recall that many injuries requiring bandaging having occurred recently. Problem Child hadn’t even broken anything since training camp.

Before Aizawa had the chance to tap the offending item out onto his growing shopping list, he stiffened at the distinct sound of water beginning to run through the building’s pipes.

Who has a shower this early in the morning?

Narrowing his eyes toward the common area, he pocketed his phone and prepared to reprimand whoever had the guts to break curfew as he made his way to the communal bathrooms.

He grumbled to himself as he attempted not to let the fear of walking in on two teenagers going at it prevent him from doing his job, making no effort to hide the annoyance on his face. He had not signed up to become the 24/7 guardian of a rowdy group of idiotic, self-sacrificing teens that didn’t know better; and he certainly didn’t get payed enough for it either.

Much to his relief, Aizawa could only count a single pair of feet peaking out from the shower stall as he quietly entered the bathroom. He opened his mouth to let whoever the delinquent was know that they had 5 minutes to get out of the shower and back to bed, but paused as his eyes fell on the bundle of clothes discarded in a pile next to him.

Amongst them, was a wad of ace bandages.

It wasn’t logical to jump to conclusions. The class of 1-A got themselves injured all the time (much to his dismay). Bandages had more than one use. But….

That really was a lot of them.

After taking a moment to consider the situation, Aizawa hastily gathered up the clothing, making a point of leaving the bandages, and stalked over to the shower.

“Kind of early to be having a shower, isn’t it kid?” Grateful for the way his monotone voice covered the concern that had taken root in the pit of his stomach.

Despite the build up of humidity that had collected in the room, Aizawa could feel the ice-cold shock radiating off his student as their own realization sunk in. The shower immediately snapped off.

“S-sensei?” squeaked Problem Child. Of course it was him.

There was the soft sound of shuffling before the shower stall cracked open, revealing a wide-eyed Midoriya hiding behind the door. It did not escape Aizawa’s notice the way his arm hugged the towel that was wrapped around his chest tightly.

Without saying anything, he shoved the articles of clothing he had brought into Midoriya’s arms, and watched as his student studied the bundle quickly then returned his gaze up to his teacher. His mouth hung open, and Aizawa could guess what was on his mind. He silently dared the kid to inquire about the missing bandages. It would make this conversation a whole lot easier if he didn’t have to be the one to initiate it.

True to his timid nature, Midoriya instead retreated back into the stall. He emerged fully clothed not long after, shoulders hunched, and arms folded tightly over his chest as his gaze fell to the side.

Upon seeing his kid in this state, a familiar, long forgotten agony reignited deep in his heart. It was a reminder of the hours spent getting dressed for the day, attempting to find something to wear that didn’t rip sobs from his throat. It was a reminder of the way his nails felt as he pressed them into the offending flesh, raking them down in an attempt to pull his chest from his body. It was a reminder of looking in the mirror, dissociating from the stranger staring back at him, wondering why he looked so much different in his own head. It was a reminder that, even though he was no longer plagued by the never ending ache from a body that felt foreign to him, that this was still his students reality.

Cursing his lack of tact, Aizawa attempted to allow his features to soften. For the first time since he can remember, he desperately hoped his face conveyed the emotions overwhelming his mind.

He needed that kid to know that he gets it.

That he understands.

After what felt like an eternity, Aizawa finally picked up the ace bandages and turned to Midoriya. “Are these—”

“Problem Child look at me.” he interrupted himself, wincing at the tone of his own voice. His student’s eyes finally met his.  He didn’t say anything, but the fear he was experiencing was written all over his face.

He continued after a moment to collect himself, focusing on speaking evenly and quietly. “Are these what you’ve been using?” There was an unspoken understanding that Aizawa was painfully aware of what the bandages had been used for.

Izuku had been expecting a number of reactions. Ignorance. Misunderstanding. Transphobia. But not the concern and pity coming off his teacher in waves. He briefly considered attempting to lie, claim the bandages were for supporting his mangled arms. But that look in his eyes. Somehow, for some reason, Aizawa knew.

A tired sigh brought the teenager from his thoughts, as he watched the pro-hero before him peel away his black hoodie, and quietly passed it to him.

After straightening out the t-shirt that had been underneath, Aizawa rubbed the back of his neck. “When I was younger, I found that excessively large clothing helped me feel better.” He mumbled, sheepish at his admissions.

Aizawa could practically see the cogs of Midoriya’s brain working as he processed that statement. The implications it had.

“Y-you?” his kid stammered, attempting to wrap his mind around what his teacher had just confessed to him. “Aizawa Sensei, you were— are—?”

“Yeah kid.” He cut Midoriya off, crouching before him in hopes that it would make him more approachable to the anxiety ridden teen. “Look. You can’t bind your chest at all hours, and you certainly can’t be doing it with these.” Aizawa lifted the hand the ace bandages were gathered in. “You’re going to disfigure your ribs, then how are you going to be a hero? You won’t even be able to breath properly.”

A soft sob cut him from his passive lecture, his attention fixing to Midoriya’s face as it flushed with shame.

“I- I know. I just—”, his student hiccupped as he desperately tried to justify himself.

Another sigh. “Midoriya, I’m not mad. And you aren’t in trouble.” He offered, hoping that would ease him into opening up. “I’m just… worried.”

Relief flood the kid’s expression as he sniffled and wiped a tear from is eye before it had the chance to fall. “I… my family… we can’t afford to get me a binder.”

Aizawa waited patiently as his student stumbled over how he wanted to begin.

“All of our spare funds go into affording my schooling. We barely have enough for me to attend UA.” Midoriya’s gaze fell to the floor. “I know that what I’ve been doing isn’t safe. But my mom… she already sacrifices so much for me. I can’t—”, a strangled sob escaped from him at the mention of his mother. “I can’t be any more of a burden on her than I already am. So, I just pretend I don’t have any dysphoria. She doesn’t even know I’ve been binding.”

Of course he was more focused on how his transition would affect others than his own well being. He shouldn’t have expected anything different from the kid that had shattered his arms to prove a point to a classmate.

Midoriya waited in suffocating silence while his teacher gathered his thoughts.

 “Wanting to feel comfortable and happy doesn’t make you a burden.”

His kid’s eyes widened as his head snapped towards Aizawa, a questioning look prompted him to continue.

“Being a hero is a unique job. Every day you sacrifice yourself to take care of others, and give them safety and hope. But you can’t take from an empty well. If you don’t have anything of yourself to give, if you aren’t attending to your own emotions and health, you won’t have any strength to draw from to give to those you are trying to protect. Not taking care of yourself is what makes you a burden. You understand, Problem Child?”

This elicits a weak nod from Midoriya, who’s eyes are still trained to the floor.

Aizawa studied him for a moment, before resting a hand gently on his kids shoulder. “It’s UA’s job, my job, to prepare you for the world that is waiting for you after graduation. And, Midoriya, I’m sorry, that I failed to notice that you were struggling and didn’t have the support system you needed.”

At this, an incomprehensible string of mutterings burst from the shocked teenager’s mouth as he attempted to argue that his teacher had anything to apologize for. A raised hand silenced Midoriya once more, as Aizawa refused to let the kid shoulder his own failings as an educator.

He withdrew his hand from his student’s shoulder, and stood up once more, hoping to depict himself as a someone strong that could be relied on. “Do you know why, the tuition at UA is so high, Midoriya?”, who shook his head at that. “Principle Nedzu recognizes that working as a hero puts strain on a person’s mental and physical health, and as such, set the cost of UA so that he could provide all students and alumni of this school health insurance.”

Midoriya’s mind was racing. He didn’t want to give himself false hope by jumping to conclusions but….

“Do you want to transition?”

He felt his breath hitch as his heart skipped.

“Yes.” The answer came in a breathless whisper.

Aizawa felt something he couldn’t name grow in his chest. Midoriya needed help. Needed someone to be there for him as he experienced this pivotal point in his life. He would be that person, it’s the least he could do.

He had to make his Problem Child care about himself as much as others cared for him, as much as he cared for him.

“Tomorrow, after your classes, we are going to have a talk with Recovery Girl about what you want out of your transition, and begin the paperwork to get you covered for procedures and medications you need. Alright, Problem Child?”

The pro-hero had expected the tears that instantly fell from Midoriya’s face at that. He had expected the trembling, heaving as sobs shook his small frame. What Aizawa hadn’t expected, was the solid impact hitting his chest as his kid threw a hug around him. He felt himself go rigid as he attempted to process the teenager’s sudden abandonment of his usual anxiety around authority figures. Awkwardly, he brought an arm up around his shuddering shoulders and pulled him closer.

“Thank you Mr. Aizawa.”

Aizawa felt a fond smile tug at his lips despite himself.

“If you really want to thank me, you’ll wear sports bras until the binder I’m going to order you comes in, and use that hoodie when around your classmates outside of school.” He motioned to the black fabric now hanging loosely from the kid’s arm.

This prompted Midoriya to pull away from his teacher and tug the sweater over his head. His student was absolutely swimming in it, the bottom hem coming down to almost reach his knees. But it left him a cozy, androgynous blob, and Aizawa couldn’t help but hum in approval as he watched his shoulders relax a little.

It was a relief, knowing that he could help mitigate some of the pain this poor child had to go through on a daily basis. Even if it was only a little.

Midoriya offered a grateful, watery smile as he wiped the remnants of tears from his face with a sleeve.

Aizawa’s heart caught in his throat, and despite his better judgement, he couldn’t stop himself from offering one last piece of comfort.

“You aren’t alone, Izuku. You understand me? You are never alone. I’m here for you.”

Nothing was going to hurt his kid and make him look like that ever again. Not if he could help it.

---

Also submitting a post on anon required me to put in an email, I don't know if it shows up for you, but if it does, can you just copy and past this separately in a new post so that my email isn't public? Thanks!

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😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

I love this so much omg this was absolutely beatifully written!! Thank you so much for sending me this I gotta share it with the world!! (Also no worries anon, I can't see your email on moble, so Imma post it. If anything changes I'll be sure to take it down asap!)

[basically-i-write-shit]

Mama’s home for star-crossed lovers

Mama’s large home in the woods just outside of Kepler, West Virginia, is a safe-haven for the outcasts-- damaged, broken, and scared. Dani’s no stranger to any of those things, but Mama’s house is safe. Then Aubrey Little shows up with a different situation than usual, and she’s just Dani’s type. Only thing is, Dani is really bad at talking to girls unless they’re behind a screen. 

Aka an internet friends that the author took liberties with, ignoring the fact that Kepler’s in the radio silence zone. 

TW for minor mentions abuse/homophobia/transphobia but it’s like veeeery minor

AO3 link

Mama’s large home in the woods just outside of Kepler, West Virginia, is a safe-haven for the outcasts-- damaged, broken, and scared. She’d inherited the property when her grandparents had died, and immediately she did the first thing that would piss those old fucks off: started housing the trans kids in town that had been sleeping on benches behind the high school. The house was large, though, and she had room even after putting up the first few kids, and so she expanded to just...anyone that needed it. 

The people changed frequently, especially when she puts an ad online that her home is “a safehaven for queer and other oppressed folks.” 

All of her visitors commend Mama on her endeavors, tell her how much they needed the love and acceptance -- especially in West Virginia -- but they never stay longer than they have to. More often than not, they’re just waiting for friends in other states to get their affairs in order to move. There are exceptions, though. 

Exceptions like Dani. 

Dani, while not one of the first, is one of the longest stays at Mama’s house; she's been living and working in Kepler for a little over five years, now, in one of Mama’s spare rooms. She tries every paycheck to pay rent, but Mama refuses it most of the time so Dani does chores around the house to help out and slips money in Mama’s desk when she’s not home. 

There are others, too; Barclay’s been here for ten years, and Jake for four; they stay on the boys’ floor on the ground level. Dani’s the only one on the girls’ floor that’s stayed longer than a few months, other than Moira, but Moira’s just moved out after seven years of staying with Mama. They get visitors, old and new, often, and so Dani isn’t lonely or bored often, which is why Dani should be nonplussed when she comes home from work to see Mama showing a new person around the main floor of the house. 

Should be. 

But this girl is so fucking pretty. 

“Dani! You’re the only girl on the floor right now, so introductions’ll be pretty short ‘n quick. This is Aubrey Little, met ‘er while I was out deliverin’ a piece outta town. She’ll be stayin’ with us for a while. Mind--” The landline rings and Mama answers it; there’s a few moments of hushed conversation, then she curses, turning to apologize to Aubrey before rushing out the door cursing Ned Chicane’s name. 

There’s an awkward silence, and Dani thinks maybe she’s supposed to talk to Aubrey. 

Only thing it, Dani doesn’t know what more to say than, “Hey.” 

“Uh- Hi- Hello, hi. I’m-- Aubrey.” Aubrey shifts a bag in a gloved hand and offers the other to shake, which Dani does-- though she almost melts at the warmth spreading up her body as a flush wraps its way up her neck and cheeks. “Man, you have no idea how happy I am that I found Mama’s ad!” 

Dani smiles to be kind, looking for any reason she can to keep talking to this girl but she can’t really keep her eyes on her for too long without getting flustered. “I mean, aren’t we all? Mama’s wonderful.” 

“Right.” 

There’s an awkward silence, and Aubrey shifts her bag awkwardly and Dani’s eyes widen. 

“Oh-- Oh My god, I’m probably supposed to show you to your room, huh? Sorry.” 

“Mama was going to, but then she,,,the whole...” 

“Ah, yeah, sorry about that. Nothing you need to worry about, I don’t think.” Dani goes into Mama’s office and grabs a key for one of the empty rooms on the second floor from the box, handing it to Aubrey. Her cheeks burn when their fingers brush. “It’s kinda like dorms here, so you get a key-- not that you’ll need it though. No one steals stuff or anything! Just-- for safety.” 

“Yeah, yeah, sounds fair.” Aubrey laughs and slips the key into her pocket as she follows Dani up to the second floor. She looks amazed at how big the place is, and Dani smiles; it’s pretty usual of new guests to be surprised at the eight bedroom home. The look on her face is kind of adorable. 

They get to the bedroom and stand in the doorway awkwardly a moment. 

“Dinner’s whenever Barclay yells, shouldn’t be too long though.” 

“Alrighty! Thanks again, Dani. I appreciate it.” 

Dani smiles. “Hey, no problem. If you need anything, I’m across the hall.” 

Aubrey nods, disappears into the room, and Dani steps into her own. Head thunking onto the wood of the door, she sighs. She’s really fucked. 

Aubrey Little is definitely Dani’s type, and she seems to have a good personality, but Dani has reservations about dating anyone that comes to stay with Mama. She knows what it’s like to feel hopeless, and then to suddenly feel loved and safe here-- she doesn’t want to ruin that for anybody. There have been people that have come through that she’s had the chance at flings with, but she’s practiced self-restraint. It’s not too hard, seeing as they all leave sometime or another. 

And Dani hasn’t even held hands with a girl in the six years since she came out, which almost hurts more than anything. Her parents didn’t want her, and she still hasn’t been able to get into a relationship anyway. Sometimes it feels like it’s all for nothing, but then she has dinner with Barclay and Mama and all of the other guests, and she remembers how much happier she is living without the pain of being in the closet. 

So even though she’s kind of lonely, it’s fine. She’s fine. She just-- She’s fine. 

Barclay’s call for dinner startles Dani from her reverie and she ducks into the bathroom in the hall to wash her hands before heading downstairs. As she turns down the hall to the kitchen, she sees Aubrey’s firey hair at the top of the stairs and she speeds up a bit. 

“What’s for dinner tonight?” 

“Spaghetti and meatballs with garlic bread, even though I know you won’t eat any of the bread.” Dani rolls her eyes. Garlic is gross. “Meatballs and noodles gotta be kept sperate, new girl’s vegetarian.” 

“Sounds good. Where’s Jake tonight?”

“Hell if I know. He said he was going to the Hornet’s nest before he left, but they’re always all over town. I told him be back but he’ll probably eat there tonight.” 

Dani hums as she grabs plates and sets four places at the table as Mama and Aubrey enter. Dani grabs two more plates when she sees Duck Newton and Ned Chicane following behind them. 

“Ned, Duck! What trouble’d you get in that Mama had t’ run off so fast, huh?” 

“Now that’s top secret, friend Dani!” Ned boasts. He sits in his usual spot, Duck plopping down next to him after washing his hands, and it’s hard to miss how dirty the trio are. 

Duck grunts, scooping a hearty amount of pasta and meatballs onto his plate. “Ned crashed his Lincoln into the shed out back trying to run from sheriff Owens.” 

“Bastard ruined my latest sculpture, now I gotta rebuild the damn shed and then start over.” Mama growls, glaring over at him. “I might’s well change my ad to ‘fugitives welcome too’ at this point.” 

“Hey, now--!” 

Aubrey snickers, falling into one of the empty seats once everyone’s sat in their own spots, and that's kinda weird but no one says anything. Dinner starts. Throughout the meal, Dani can’t help but stare a bit. Aubrey’s energy is absolutely addictive, and it’s hard not to smile with her. Duck finishes first, and is quick to duck out-- saying he needs to feed his cat, but he’s probably running off to go to sleep. After that, Barclay finishes but stays at the table to chat. Mama and Ned finish some time after Dani, and disappear into the office to talk about what they’ll do about the shed. 

“Wow, Barclay, that was so good! You do a lot of cooking here?” 

“Yeah, most of it really, unless Dani or the others wanna give me a break.” Barclay laughs, smiling. “I like cooking, though, so that doesn’t happen a lot.” 

“Well you’re damn good at it! Need any help cleaning up?” 

“It’s actually my night to wash dishes tonight, but it should be pretty easy to clean up so you just go on ahead.” Dani pipes up, standing. Aubrey shakes her head, scrambling up as well. 

“I can help! I really don’t mind.” 

Dani smiles. “Alright. Let’s get to work then.” Dani stacks up the plates, and Aubrey helps carry the pots and pans to the sink. Since Dani knows where the dishes are, she puts the leftovers in a Tupperware each for those that work so they can take some to lunch tomorrow. Aubrey fills the sink for the pots and then they work together to load the plates and cups into the dishwasher. 

“So, uh-- what’re you in for?” Aubrey asks causally, only to cringe and chake her head quickly. “Yeah, no, uh-- sorry. Sorry! That’s a stupid, prying question. Sorry.” 

Aubrey laughs and leans against the counter with a smile, watching Dani wash the pots out. “It’s alright. I mean, it’s pretty obvious, but uh...parents didn’t want me ‘cause I like girls. I wandered around about year until I met Mama and I’ve been here since.” 

Aubrey nods sadly, humming. 

“Man, I’m sorry.” 

“Yeah, well, it’s-- It’s long forgotten.” Dani shrugs, reassuring Aubrey that it’s fine because she looks guilty still. “What about you? If it’s not too personal.” 

Aubrey shoots a grin at Dani, winking at her. “I’m on the run, babe.” 

Dani’s cheeks burn and she her eyebrows shoot up, amused. “O- Oh?” 

“My parents...weren’t not accepting, but they kinda ignored it, y’know? And then mom died, and my dad got all protective and shit. Wouldn’t let me go out anywhere even though I’m a grown ass woman; so when I wanted to start a magic act, he wasn’t having it.” Aubrey snaps her gloved fingers, and little sparks fly from her hands, and oh god Dani’s really fucked-- 

“Anyway, long story short I ran away and dad has a missing person’s report out on me. I’m trying to find a lawyer or something to contact him to get it taken down, ‘cause I know if I go home I might be stuck there for a while, but I can’t afford it right now. Mama’s a literal lifesaver.” 

“That sounds...stressful. If my parents ever came looking for me, I don’t know what I’d do.” Dani says. 

“Well I’d hope you wouldn’t go with them. They sound like dicks, for not accepting you-- no offence to you, of course.” 

“None taken. I get it. I-- I’d like to say that I wouldn’t, but I don’t know.” 

Aubrey gives a comforting smile, and Dani looks away quickly. 

They finish the pots and set them out to dry, Aubrey cracking jokes every now and then, and it’s domestic in a way Dani is used to yet this is so new and scary she doesn’t know how to process. Afterwards, they go their separate ways, and Dani collapses onto the couch next to Barclay, who snorts. 

“Someone’s got a cru- u- ush.” 

“Shut up, you haven’t gotten laid in at least five years!” 

“Neither have you.” 

“...Touché.” 

- 

Dani does her best to avoid Aubrey the best she can; as it turns out, Aubrey is going to be here a while earning the cash for her lawyers, and so she’s going to be staying with them for a while. Aubrey makes quick friends with Ned and Duck, so when she isn’t at work, she’s with them. It’s a brief reprieve for Dani’s weak gay heart. 

Ding! 

The-Lady-Flame: You alright? Been a couple days since you messaged last. 

Dani smiles at the message, settling into the couch after dinner one night. Jake is on dishes duty, having actually joined them for dinner once, and he’s got some punk music or something playing in the kitchen. Dani thinks, idly, that her friend would like this music. The lady flame, aka Sparks, is one of her oldest friends even if they’ve never met in person; they met on Tumblr about four years ago when Dani started following wlw accounts and found a punk/prep aesthetic blog that she fell in love with almost immediately. She and Sparks became best friends rather quickly, and even though Dani doesn’t use tumblr much anymore they message regularly on discord. 

Vamp-2-amp: Yeah, no, I’m cool. Been busy is all. 

Vamp-2-amp: You? 

Sparks takes a while to respond. Dani jumps a mile in the air when Aubrey yells from the other room (”Jake I love this band!”), but relaxes quickly when she figures out what the yelling’s about. She can’t help but smile as Aubrey starts dancing around the kitchen with Jake. 

After a few minutes, though, after everything’s calmed down, Dani’s phone dings again with a response. 

The-Lady-Flame: Good! Settling in with the new housemates. 

Vamp-2-amp: That’s great! Totally forgot you were looking for a place. 

Vamp-2-amp: I met a pretty girl a couple weeks ago and I’m so gay you have no idea like I’m such a useless gay

The-Lady-Flame: Oh? Go on? 

Dani continues talking about her crush on Aubrey for a while, Sparks chiming in every now and then, before conversation shifts to life in general. 

“Who ya talkin’ to?” 

Dani locks her phone, blushing like mad, as Aubrey plops onto the couch next to her. “Nobody!” 

Aubrey laughs, leaning against Dani’s shoulder. “No need to keep secrets from me, Dani~ Talking to a girl?” 

“M- Maybe,” She says, and well it’s not a lie. She’s been friends with Sparks for years, and Sparks is a girl, but it’s not like talking talking like Aubrey’s implying. Well-- okay, no, Sparks doesn’t see her like that although Dani wouldn’t mind if she did. 

“That’s exciting. Girls are-- oh, boy, girls are. Nice.” Aubrey smiles like a dork, and Dani hides her face in her hands. “Hey! So, uh-- I ran into Duck today, and he told me a place to get some good soup?.. I hate cold weather, and some soup sounds really good. Would you wanna-- Would you wanna go check it out with me?..” 

And if Dani wasn’t totally flustered before, with Aubrey leaning on her, she’s a mess now. She tries to act cool though. “Oh, that place? Duck’s taken all of us at some point, anything to get his hands on that French onion. I'm not exactly a fan, myself.” 

“Oh. Oh, alright!” Aubrey’s face falls a bit, and she shrinks back, dejected. It takes Dani a moment to register that maybe she should’ve said yes even though she doesn’t like the place. “So I should ask Duck to go instead? Sounds good, thanks Dani!” 

Aubrey hops up quickly, waving, and then she’s gone. 

“W- Wait-- fuck-- damn it.” 

Dani sighs, slumping back against the couch with a frown. She didn’t mean to make Aubrey feel bad. Damn it. 

Vamp-2-amp: Oh man I think I accidentally just rejected pretty girl??? 

The-Lady-Flame: OOF rip, one of my housemates just kinda blew me off too so ig we’re in the same boat with bad communication skills huh? 

Vamp-2-amp: RIP babe that sucks

The-Lady-Flame: Babe? 

Vamp-2-amp: I’m trying something new ;) 

The-Lady-Flame: ...I like that 

Vamp-2-amp: Yeah? I’ll have to call you that more then ;)

A boom from upstairs startles her, and then Aubrey’s voice calls “Sorry! Sorry, that was me-- dropped something! I’m fine!” 

- 

Some time nearing Christmas, Indrid Cold moves back into Mama’s house for the winter and parks his Winnebago out back. They don’t follow traditional Christmas festivities, though there is a pile of presents in the corner of the living room and nights are spent together more, laughing and playing games or watching movies, or simply just talking. Aubrey, despite her saving up, has bought everyone staying in the house a present and wrapped them up (messily, but wrapped nonetheless). Dani has one for everyone except Aubrey, though not because she doesn’t want to give her one-- she just doesn’t know what to get her. 

What do you get for a girl you’re trying to avoid so you don’t kiss her?

Ned’s laughter booms through the room, and Dani’s startled from her thoughts. She decides that she has a month to go yet. 

”Aubrey, your daddy’s kinda a dick, huh?” 

Aubrey had just gotten done telling them about her latest string of emails and facebook messenger calls from her father begging her to come home. She gives a tired chuckle, setting her mug of cocoa down on the coffee table. After a glare from Barclay she moves a coaster under it. 

“Yeah, I mean, a little bit. He doesn’t mean anything bad, but this whole missing person thing sucks. I’ve been through like two or three different states trying to get away from it! I just wanna live normal and, like, get a real job.” 

“What would you do if you could do whatever you want, Aubrey?” 

Aubrey hums, thinking. “I’ve always wanted to have a magic troupe, obviously, but...I like Kepler. I dunno what I’d do just yet. I can’t really think about that right now anyway.” 

“But everything is gonna get better soon. Don’t worry about it.” Mama says, patting Aubrey’s shoulder. 

“You’ll be able to hire a lawyer soon, right?” 

“You seem pretty invested in Aubrey’s plans, Ned Chicane,” Indrid says, suspicious, and yeah he’s been asking her a lot of questions tonight. Ned laughs nervously. 

“I have no ill intentions with my dear friend Aubrey, friend Indrid. I’m just worried for her wellbeing, as we all are. I want to see her succeed.” 

“Well, Ned, if Mama’ll have me, I’d like to stay, so no need to worry too much about me.” Aubrey says, giving Mama a hopeful look, and Dani feels both a rush of excitement and a rush of panic wash over her at the idea of Aubrey staying. She’s going to have to spend more time living with her crush? Oh boy. 

Mama smiles softly and nods, opening her mouth to speak when the phone rings. She steps out to answer it, only to come back a few minutes later with a grim face that breaks the light-hearted conversation. 

“Barclay? You, uh-- Can you clean out a spare room? On the, uh-- Boy’s floor. We got a new one comin’ in about an hour, and uh-- this one’s-- this one’s bad.” Mama says, her voice shaking, and it suddenly hits Dani how much Mama’s seen in the twenty years she’s been doing this.There are cases that come into the house that put everyone down, but for it to make Mama upset it means that things are breaking bad. “I-- I need someone to go get Duck. I don’t got the time-- I-- I’ve got a bit of prep t’ do, this kid’s comin’ with nothin’ on him, gotta get to the store...Don’t know what we all need.” 

The house goes into motion; Ned volunteers to run over to Duck’s house --which he quickly does upon getting the ok-- and Barclary and Jake start cleaning up one of the rooms, Mama grabbing her keys to run to the nearest open store. 

“M- Mama! Is there anything I can do to help?..Anything you need?..” 

“Shoot, Aubrey, I’m sorry this one’s taken care of. You an’ Dani an’ Indrid are free to go about y’er night, sorry to cut it short.” 

“No problem, Mama...” 

Then Mama’s gone, and the house is silent save for Barclay and Jake’s hushed conversation. Dani, still on the couch, stands. She can see some helpless anxiety building up in Aubrey, like she’s noticed it usually does when she’s rejected, and that won’t do. So even if Dani’s bad at talking to pretty girls, she needs to comfort Aubrey somehow. 

“Why don’t we go on a walk, Aubrey? It’ll keep us outta the house for a bit.” 

“B- But I wanna-- I wanna help, everyone else is...” Aubrey sounds frustrated. “Why can’t I help, Dani?” 

“Mama has her reasons. You know her. This guy probably does need the quiet, and the house’ll probably be cleared out when he shows up.” Dani slowly leads Aubrey outside and into the woods near the house. She knows it’ll take a bit to reassure Aubrey that she’s not in trouble; Dani’s been doing research on ADHD since Aubrey isn’t shy about that aspect of her life, and read something about people with it being sensitive to rejection like the soup incident, or like right now. 

“But-- But she’s bringing Duck here, so that can’t be true.” 

Dani shakes her head, reaches out her hand to grab Aubrey’s. 

Dani knows logically that if Duck is coming, their new guest is a trans man and so he’s coming over to give the “it gets better” talk but she doesn’t want to out their new guest without knowing, and let them tell everyone on their own. 

“I can promise you, Aubrey, you’re not being kept out because you can’t help out. It’s just for the night. I’m sure tomorrow you’ll be able to goof around with the new guy,make him laugh for us. Laughter’s the best medicine.” 

“I don’t wanna just goof, Dani, I wanna help!” Aubrey snaps, dropping her hand as she stops walking. Dani cringes. 

“No, that’s not what I-- Aubrey, I didn’t mean it like that,” Dani says. 

“Really? Because you avoid me enough I wouldn’t be surprised if all you thought of me was ‘haha fire girl is at it again’ right?” 

“Wh-- No, of course not, Aubrey!” 

“Then why don’t you like talking to me? Because I thought you were pretty cool but you keep brushing me off and I think that usually means you don’t want to spend time with someone.” 

Aubrey looks frustrated, annoyed, and this is exactly what Dani didn’t want.

“Aubrey, I- I’ve been avoiding you because...you’re really fucking pretty, and I don’t want to fuck anything up when we still have to live in the same house. I’ve done it before, and it sucks.” Dani sits heavily on a fallen log, huffing, and she doesn’t hear Aubrey’s shocked gasp with how loud her heart is beating in her ears. She blinks, frustrated, and sees Aubrey in front of her. 

“He-- Hey, Dani, that’s not-- there’s no need to think like that..! I-- You think I’m pretty?..” 

“Y- Yes? Like, super fucking pretty? And funny, and kind, and I don’t want to do anything that would make it awkward, because Mama’s place is a safe place and I don’t wanna ruin it for you. For anyone that has to deal with the drama. I’m sorry, I didn’t--” Dani’s eyes widen as Aubrey launches herself at her, connecting their lips. 

“Hey Dani? That’s-- That’s really nice, but I’m gonna need you to shut up and kiss me.” 

- 

The new visitor is, as Dani suspected, a trans man who’d just came out to his parents and needed a place to stay for a while; he’d been beat up pretty bad when he came in, and had no clothes on his back; Mama had set him up quickly, and it was a sad day when he went off with some friends a month later. 

In that month he had looked to look into physical transition with Duck’s help, and left with the promise to visit Mama when he's sure he's stable. The tension between Aubrey and Dani had been mostly settled that night of Dani’s confession, but it’s still kind of awkward having a girlfriend. 

A girlfriend. Man, that’s crazy. What was she so scared of even? 

The-Lady-Flame: Yooo you’ll never believe the week I’ve had

Vamp-2-amp: Yeah? Same here, fam 

The-Lady-Flame: One of my housemates almost blew up the house last night. 

The-Lady-Flame: It wasn’t me this time! 

Dani snorts, her head in Aubrey’s lap as they’re both on their phones on the couch. Dinner is in a few, and they’d both gotten back from work so there isn’t much to do until then but relax. It’s been a while since she’s caught up with Sparks, but it’s like nothing’s changed. The flirting’s calmed down quite a bit since they both recently got girlfriends, but it’s not like they were going anywhere in the first place. 

Vamp-2-amp: Lmao I can’t believe

The-Lady-Flame: You’re so mean to me Vamp 

Vamp-2-amp: You’re a hazard 2 society and you know it 

Aubrey snorts above her like whatever she’s reading is funny, and she lays her head on the back of the couch with a chuckle. Barclay calls for dinner and Dani groans, burying her face deeper into Aubrey’s thighs. 

The-Lady-Flame: I’m taking that as a compliment 

The-Lady-Flame: Gotta go eat and then smooch my girl, night Vamp

Thinking it’s lucky coincidence that Sparks has to leave when she does, Dani sends off a quick goodbye and stands finally, pecking Aubrey on the lips as they head to the dinner table. Meatloaf tonight, with a lot of veggie sides instead for Aubrey. 

-

Routine is easy to fall into. Dani finds it easy to include Aubrey in her routine, even after the first four months of her living with them being awkward and spent avoiding her; Aubrey gets home after Dani does, her day full of odd-jobs that she gets paid in cash with because she can’t open a bank account in Kepler without her dad finding her. Once Aubrey gets home, she showers and falls into bed, yelling across the Hall for Dani if Dani isn’t already curled up under all of Aubrey’s blankets, and they just...talk. They talk a lot. Dani about her job at the local nursery, how she’d gotten the gig with the help of forest ranger Duck Newton, the various instruments she plays, etc. Aubrey about her family, about her time on the run from them, about how she always wanted to start up a magic gig but not knowing how. 

About everything. And Dani listens-- Dani could listen to Aubrey talk about anything, why didn’t she realize sooner? One time she listened to Aubrey go on a long rant about the texture of the paper towels the high school in town uses, because she does the cleaning there sometimes and it just tears right apart. At least let the cleaning crew use some good stuff, come on--

Most nights, Dani’s lulled to sleep by Aubrey’s voice. Sometimes Aubrey --or, she suspects, Aubrey has Mama-- carries her to her own room. Most of the time, Dani stays curled up in Aubrey’s bed, her girlfriend playing big spoon, and all is right. 

It’s a nice routine. 

Dani also has a routine when messaging Sparks. If they message at all, she always says goodnight at nine o’clock and then spends the rest of the night with her family. Some nights they have game night, sometimes they watch movies, it all depends on the night. 

This particular night, Dani forgets to say goodnight until after they’re finished with a particularly long game of Monopoly, which ended with a victorious Barclay getting yelled at by the entire house. Duck and Minerva are over, Indrid visiting too, and Moira had even come to visit for Jake’s birthday. Everyone is settled into their rooms, Duck and Minerva heading home to his apartment and Indrid off to the RV park, and Aubrey is helping Barclay out so Dani opens discord and messages Spark with an apology for not seeing her last message. She hits send and Aubrey’s phone dings. Dani’s startled by the name that flashes on the discord notification. 

It’s her name. Well--- her screenname. 

Aubrey’s the lady flame?! 

Aubrey returns to the bedroom, climbing into bed, but before Dani can mention it Mama’s yelling up the stairs for Aubrey sounding panicked. 

All Dani and Aubrey have to do is make eye contact before they’re rushing downstairs, expecting something bad to have happened, or a new guest, but instead there’s Ned Chicane at the door, a strange man by his side. 

“Mama, Ned, what’s up?” 

The strange man clears his throat and steps forward to shake hands, but Mama steps between them and that pushes him back out the door. “Apologies for showing up so late at night, Miss Little. You see, my cab into town just arrived and I was instructed by my employer to seek you out immediately once I knew of your location.” 

Dani’s heart stops in her chest, and she can feel Aubrey’s do the same as her girlfriend’s hand finds hers. 

“O- Oh?” She asks, as if she doesn’t already know. 

Aubrey’s father finally found her. 

- 

“I’m gonna kill Ned! He’s fucking dead!” Aubrey’s room is trashed now, the belongings she’d acquired in the ten months that she’s been living in Kepler strewn broken across the floor. Dani sits amongst it all, equally seething with rage. Just the day before she’d had a long talk with Ned about friendship, and then he pulls this. “He gives me up just to get out of trouble with that Boyd guy. Doesn’t he know it’s not just me in trouble here?!” 

It’s true. Aubrey’s been given three days to pack her things and go back home with the P.I. that her father hired to find her, or the police would be sent to Mama’s house and Mama arrested for kidnapping. And if Mama were to get arrested, the entire house would fall into chaos. Moira’s fear of older authority figures doesn’t mix well with the police coming, and Barclay and Jake already aren’t in good standing with sheriff Owens. They’d surely fight the police for Mama -- as would Dani -- if she were to get arrested for doing the thing that she loves. 

“This is all my fault. I-- I’m gonna have to go back...” 

“You can’t! Aubrey, you’re a grown woman you can do whatever you want--” 

“But I won’t if that means any of you guys getting hurt.” Aubrey says, her voice cracking. “Especially you or Mama. 

Dani nods slowly. It’ll hurt to see Aubrey leave. That’s damn obvious. But once the missing person report is gone, she can come back and everything will be alright again. 

Right? 

“I...I’ll text you every day, and I’ll be back in less than a week. I just need to show up home, tell my dad to fuck off, and come back.” 

“Promise?” 

Aubrey connects their lips in a deep, emotion-filled kiss. “Promise.” 

- 

Aubrey leaves at the very last second she can on the third day, Boyd Mosche keeping a firm watch on her to make sure she doesn’t run again. Everyone is anxious to see her go, having gotten to know and love Aubrey in the just under one year she’s been staying with them-- but no one’s as worried as Mama is, save for probably Dani. Mama spends her days not at work pacing in her art shed (which she still hasn’t repaired since Ned crashed into it), waiting for a message to come through. 

Nothing comes from Aubrey, and when Dani tries to air her frustrations with Sparks, her friend is suspiciously not responding-- which only confirms Dani’s theory. She’d forgotten to even mention it in the days before Aubrey had left, because how does one go about that? And should she even? Definitely not now, it’s not the time--

So she doesn’t. Aubrey leaves, and she’s alone, and it hurts. 

Every night that Aubrey is gone ends the same: Dani, curled up small in the middle of Mama’s bed, trying not to cry because this whole situation is bullshit and it hurts like hell. 

“But it shouldn’t take this long, Mama.” Dani, sweetie, it’s complicated. “Even if she had to take a bus all the way home and back, she should be home by now. She just has to show her dad she’s alive and then she can leave!” I told you, that ain’t exactly how this all works. “But it should be. Why’s it gotta be so complicated? I just want her home!” Me too, Dani. Me too. 

And she does come home. It just takes some time. 

Two whole weeks pass, but nearing bedtime one night the front door creaks open and Aubrey makes her way sheepishly inside. She looks tired from the long bus ride but oh so happy to be back-- especially when she sees Jake doing homework on the couch. Dani is in her bedroom when she shows up, but Jake’s loud yell brings her down and in an instant she’s in Aubrey’s strong, warm hold and she never wants to let go. 

Slowly the rest of the house filters into the entrance way and gives Aubrey hugs. Barclay, Mama-- even Duck, who had been sleeping on the reclining chair in the living room for the last two weeks. After she’s finally able to get her story out, dramatic and exaggerated a bit to keep it light, Barclay insists on making a quick batch of cookies to celebrate before anyone can go to bed-- which is definitely a needed treat after the last couple of weeks. 

“Hey, Dani? Where’s my stuff?” 

Dani lifts her head from the sink, her toothbrush dangling from her mouth. “Hm?” 

“My stuff. That I left in in my room?” 

“Oh. I moved it to my room.” She spits quickly and rinses her mouth as Aubrey gives her an amused smile. “I mean, uh-- well-- an old friend was coming back, and her room used to be yours, but she stayed in the room next to yours, and I just never got to moving it back...” 

“Dani, if you wanted me to move in with you, all you had to do is ask.” Aubrey says with a laugh, and Dani’s cheeks burn bright. 

“No, no, I didn’t-- Aubrey I didn’t-- I mean, if you wanna share a room, but it’s not moving in together technically--” Dani hides her face in Aubrey’s neck, and her girlfriend laughs. Aubrey’s lips press against her temple, coaxing her out of her hiding place so that she can kiss all over her face; nose, cheeks, jaw, lips. 

“Hell yeah! I’m, like, really into you, Dani, so I’m like, down with staying with you.” 

“Aubrey, you’re-- you're so amazing, oh my god.” She laughs. “I’m so in love with you, oh my god.” 

It’s Aubrey’s turn to blush, and Dani’s eyes widen a bit in panic before Aubrey kisses her again. “I’m in love with you too, Dani. Like, so much. I had no idea what I was gonna do if I didn’t get to come home to you and Mama and them.” 

“Well it’s a good thing you didn’t need to worry too much, then. We all knew you’d come back.” 

“We knew even if you had to kill your old man you’d come back.” Mama’s voice startles them both, and they jump apart like teenagers, blushing and stuttering. Mama just has a fond smile on her lips. “Now, I’d appreciate being able to use the bathroom. You two can continue the smoochin’ in your room.” 

“Right, we’re still in the- the bathroom. Sorry Mama.” 

“Sorry Mama.” 

“Good night, girls.” Mama steps aside to let them past, giving them both big hugs before the door closes. Dani pulls Aubrey down the hall to their room, a smile on her face, and it’s finally calm. 

She wouldn’t have it any other way. 

Dani’s phone dings, and she smiles when she sees The-Lady-Flame on her discord screen. Aubrey’s started to type away on her phone, curled up in Dani’s lap while a Disney movie plays. Dani decides to risk her theory being wrong, even though she knows it’s not, while typing her reply. 

The-Lady-Flame: Sorry I’ve been gone a while. Long story but I’m good now. How’s the girlfriend? 

Vamp-2-amp: I dunno, Aubrey, how are you? 

Aubrey’s eyes flick up to her a few seconds later, and their eyes lock. 

“...Vamp?” 

“Hey, Sparks.” 

“...Holy shit.” 

- BONUS END -

“I can’t believe you two didn’t notice you were talking to each other about each other!” 

“You shut your mouth Duck Newton, it ain’t their fault." Mama slaps the back of Duck’s head with a grin. 

“I at least get to use the fact that I’m a dumb lesbian, I don’t know what Aubrey’s excuse is.” Dani says. She’s sat in Aubrey’s lap after dinner one night, just relaxing. The whole gang had gotten together for Aubrey’s birthday, and it’s a happy affair. She’d even had a phone conversation with her father that wasn’t too terrible. 

“I got nothin’ I was just too dumb to see it.” Aubrey laughs. 

"Well, I’m just glad you two got over it. Those first few months were just painful rotten, seeing you try an’ act like you don’t like each other.” 

“Yeah, yeah. Just like you act like you don’t like Mr. Stern at the county offices.” Dani says, rolling her eyes, and Barclay blushes. 

They keep bickering playfully amongst themselves, eating the sweets Barclay made for them, until there’s a knock on the front door. Mama goes to answer it, confused, and comes back a minute later with Ned Chicane. Ned smiles sheepishly when the chatter goes silent, all eyes falling on him. He holds a balloon and a small wrapped box. 

“Aubrey? Can we talk? Alone?” 

Dani looks down at Aubrey, who looks up at her. She squeezes her girlfriend’s hand, nodding. She knows how much it hurt for Ned to give her up, and even if she’s still mad at him, Dani knows it would be better for Aubrey if she listened to him and accepted his apology. Aubrey nods, sliding Dani off of her lap, and they disappear out back for a long-needed talk. 

[anarcoqueer1994]

Bowling Confessions

A short follow up follow up fic to "Don't Let Me Go." Also note you are valid regardless whether you pass or not. Also, if you need anyone to talk to, I am here and my inbox is open.

TJ couldn't believe what had happened today. It was 2am and he knew he should be asleep but just couldn't. If you had asked him 24 hours ago if today's simple day of sledding would of ended with him getting his first boyfriend, he would have laughed in your face. He never imagined that Cyrus would like him back. But not only had Cyrus told him he liked him as much as he liked Cyrus, but Cyrus now knew he was trans and that didn't change anything in his eyes. He still loved him. To say TJ was relieved, was an understatement. All he has ever wanted was to be treated like any other guy. He knew it shouldn't matter if your cis or not, but also knew not everyone thought that way. Even people who are supposedly "allies" often misgendered trans folks without meaning too. That's why it meant so much to TJ that Cyrus saw him as a boy even after finding out his secret. 

But that's also the reason he still did not want to tell their other friends quite yet. He was still nervous about how they may react. Sure they almost immediately went downstairs and told everyone they were dating but that was easy. (Well except for Buffy pulling him aside to personally kick his ass if he ever hurts Cyrus.) It was easy because he was pretty sure everyone in that room was a little queer. He knew his sister, Amber, was a lesbian, having only dated Jonah out of some misguided internalized homophobia. Andi was pan and so into his sister. Jonah and Buffy were bi kids all the way. So yeah, telling them that hey he was gay and dating Cyrus was a piece of cake. But telling them he was trans was way scarier, and luckily Cyrus would never push him to tell when he was not ready.

There is one issue though, someone in that room earlier, other than Cyrus and Amber, knew TJ was trans; Marty. Marty was the person in the group that he knew the least about. Up until a month ago, he didn't even know who Marty was.(Apparently they were in some classes together but he doesn't remember him.) He is pretty sure Marty is a straight, cis boy but pretty harmless. But that straight, cis boy was also the person who walked in on him in the bathroom while he was changing. This is the boy who now knew he was trans. 

Sure, Marty was respectful enough not to out him but TJ had taken note of how much more quiet Marty was the rest of the day. He also noticed Marty staring at him from time to time. He may be over thinking it but he can't help but be worried. What if Marty doesn't feel comfortable around him and it makes hanging out Cyrus' friends weird? 

TJ sighs in annoyance at himself. Why is he wasting his night obsessing over this? He has better things to think about, like the fact that before leaving Cyrus' house, the shorter boy asked to take hm on a date tomorrow...err...later today at this point.

Ugh , he thinks to himself, as he looks to the clock. 3am. He needs to sleep. So he throws a pillow over his head in a desperate attempt to subdue his own racing thoughts. Eventually exhaustion wins out, and he drifts asleep.

**************

It's about 4pm later that day, and TJ is waiting anxiously for Cyrus. They are supposed to meet at The Spoon for their first official date. Sure they have been to this same restaurant hundreds of times before but this time felt new, and exciting, and scary, all at once. He wanted today to go perfect. He spent two hours changing his outfit to find "the perfect date look." Amber also convinced him that Cyrus would like his hair with no gel. She may have also slipped in there the fact that Andi mentioned to her that Cyrus really likes TJ in his glasses, the glasses he only wears around the house typically. 

So here he was, in the middle of the diner, with his hair falling way more freely than he prefers and his dorky glasses on his face. He doesn't feel the most confident in how he looks right now. But he needs today to go well. So he is trying out his look. Part of him was nervous because what if yesterday was a fluke? What if Cyrus got there and realized this was all a mistake?

Every single one of those worries melt away when he sees Cyrus walk through the door. The moment Cyrus sets eyes on him, the brunette's face lights up. The way Cyrus stares at him makes TJ's face heat up in a deep red blush. Why or how Cyrus can make him feel so soft is a mystery to him but it can't be stopped. Cyrus walks to the table and stands for a moment in what looks to be awe. 

"You look so…" The brown eyed boy's voice breaks the silence. He kneads his lower lip trying to find the best word to describe how he thought TJ looked. Cute? No that was too soft. Beautiful? Not quite the right word either. He finally decides on the word. "Handsome." It was the right mix of affectionate and distinguished.

 Without thinking Cyrur runs his fingers through TJ's hair as he keeps standing by the edge of the table. "I really like your hair. It's so soft. Not that I don't  like it other times though…" Cyrus backtracks, turning slightly red himself for putting his foot in his mouth. "It's just that I like that I can touch it without feeling the gel. And I like your glasses, you look so...I'm sorry if I am saying the wrong things. I'm just nervous you know and I really like you and I think you look so good..and…you smell good, like citrus and...

TJ smiles to himself listening to his boyfriend rambling. He finally grabs Cyrus' hand and pulls him onto the booth bench next to him, before placing a small kiss on the boy's cheek that suddenly leaves him speechless. TJ takes the moment of quiet to say "I think you look pretty good, too, muffin.

"Thanks Teej…" Cyrus replies before settling against TJ as TJ casually wraps his arm around Cyrus' shoulders. As they sat and talked and ate it felt like neither boy can remember being nervous. Sitting like this feels like they should of been doing this all along. It felt natural to sit so close, enjoying each other's company.

*************

When they finished  another renowned rendition of baby tater theater, followed closely by actually eating said baby taters, TJ asked "So what else do you have planned, underdog?"

"Nothing crazy. Buffy invited us to go bowling with her and Marty. Andi has family stuff going on so it would just be the 4 of us. It could be fun." Cyrus notices TJ's face change. It clouds over with what looks like worry. "Or we don't have to, sweetie…we can go to the park or something. "

"No Cy, I want to go. It is fine. I promise."

"Tell your face that then…" Cyrus says half jokingly. "What's up, my not-so-scary basketball guy?"

"It is nothing…" TJ says but knows he does not sound so convincing.

"Let's not start off this relationship with you lying to me. What is it?"

"I'm scared, okay?" TJ replies quietly.

"Of what?" Cyrus lowers his voice to match TJ's.

TJ takes in a deep breath like the air is suddenly heavier. It always feels heavier whenever he talks about his trans identity. It feels like if he says the wrong thing, he could mess something up. Sometimes it felt like he had to work harder than everyone else just to exist. Every once in awhile he wishes someone else he knew was going through this. 

As he thinks about this, Cyrus can see the distress on his face. Cyrus says, "You don't have to tell me, TJ… its okay. " Cyrus  smiles.

TJ returns the gesture with a weak smile. "No I want to tell you. I want to tell you everything all the time, actually. Its...its  Marty. He is the one who walked in on me yesterday, remember? And he was staring at me yesterday the entire time after that. I don't know if he is comfortable with me."

Cyrus reaches for TJ's free hand. "Like I said, we don't  have to go.'

"No we are going to go. I'm just nervous." TJ says in a soft voice, he barely recognizes as his own.

"To be honest, I don't know too much about Marty so I can't speak for him but I know Buffy. She really likes Marty and I can't see her being with someone who would treat you differently for something like being trans." Cyrus keeps his voice down so he doesn't bring unwanted attention to the green eyed boy.

TJ gives his boyfriend a small, unsure smile.  "I guess you are right…"

"Plus I will be with you the entire time." Cyrus says with a wide grin that TJ can't help but mirror. Maybe this will be okay TJ thinks to himself.

***********

Boy was he wrong. From the moment TJ and Cyrus arrived at the bowling alley, it seemed like all Marty could do was stare at TJ. TJ would catch Marty eyeing him up and down, like he was trying to figure something out. It got to the point where even Cyrus noticed it, prompting him to wrap his arm around TJ's shoulder, almost like he was trying to protect him. 

Amazingly Buffy did not seem to notice. Cyrus really wanted to tell Buffy so she could talk some sense into this guy she likes so much. But telling her would be outing TJ so that was out of the question. So those two just keep up their banter, albeit Marty being a bit distracted.

TJ meanwhile tried to focus on Cyrus. He was trying to keep distracted from the blatant stares that bore into him. It is hard though. Even with the bumbers up, (at Cyrus' request) he was not doing well. All he could think about was how uncomfortable Marty is making him feel. He didn't do anything to deserve to feel like a freak on display. Finally when Buffy gets up to grab some food, TJ pulls away from Cyrus and walks up to Marty.

"Can we talk, over there?" TJ's voice comes out more abrasive than he intended as he points to an empty corner of the alley.

"Uh, yeah, sure man." Marty says in a voice that seems riddled with anxiety.

TJ leads the way to the corner of the room. As he passes Cyrus he hears him say "I'm here if you need anything." TJ blushes at those simple words as he continues to walk away. 

When they finally get to a secluded spot, TJ clears his throat and Marty looks at him. This is probably the first one on one conversation they have ever had. "So what is your deal?"

"What do you mean?" Marty asks as he looks to the floor.

"You know what I mean. You haven't stopped starring since you walked in on me yesterday. Is it because you know I'm...I'm trans?"

Marty looks up. He looks so insure. He says "Of course not, actually yea." TJ's eyes look hurt and angry at the same time. Before he can say anything else Marty continues. "But not in the way you think.'

"Oh so you aren't staring at me because you think I'm weird and a freak?" TJ says sarcastically. He is used to assuming the worst so that doesn't seem like a stretch.

"No! Of course not!"

"Then why have you been staring at me?!" He says in a hushed yell. Then he pauses. He notices the look of sadness and fear in the other boy's face. He recognizes that look from his own mirror. His voice softens "Hey man, are you okay?"

Marty shakes his head as his breathe catch as he tries to speak. After a long couple seconds, he chokes out, "I was staring because I couldn't actually believe their was another guy at school like me. I've been trying to figure out if it was all my imagination. I'm...I'm sorry if I made you feel weird."

"Wait…" TJ says in disbelief. "Did you say 'Guy at school like you?' as in...as in you're trans?" 

"Yea, I am." Marty gives a half smile.

"How did I not know this before?" 

"The same reason that no one knows about you. Sometimes if you manage to pass, it is way easier not to go around announcing your trans."

TJ huffs at his own dumb question. "I guess you are right."

Suddenly the world around TJ felt lighter. There was now another person he could confide in that probably understood this aspect of his life better than anyone else. He is suddenly glad his boyfriend brought him here.

"Can I ask you a question?" Marty says interrupting his thoughts.

"Yea, anything."

"How do you get your voice to sound so good? I catch mine cracking all the time and I am so worried is going to give me away."

TJ cracks a small smile. "My mom is a piano teacher and she understands all this pitch and tone stuff. It sounds dumb, but she helps me."

Marty frowns and TJ is worried he said something wrong. "Did I say something wrong?"

"No, you didn't. Not at all. Um, did you say your mom helps you? She knows?"

"Well yea, it would be hard to hide something like this." TJ says matter-of-factly. Marty knows too well it is hard to hide something like this.

"She supports you?" Marty continues to question.

"Yea, since I was little. So does my dad."

Marty looks away. "That must be nice."

TJ puts his hand on the other boy's shoulder as they stand across from each other. "I take it your parents aren't the most supportive?"

"Not really. My dad barely talks to me and my mom refuses to address me by anything but my dead name. Sometimes the teachers at school are more supportive than my own parents. At least they call me Marty." Marty looks devastated as he continues. TJ just let's the other boy get it out. "And it's hard you know? Like the one binder I saved up and bought, my mom found and threw out. So most of the time, I'm stuck with bandages and sports bras. And like I can't have friends over because my parents would out me. What if that's how Buffy finds out? I really like her and I can't even bring her to my house, without being forced out to her. I just...wish they would stop treating me like a bad daughter and start being proud of son they have. Like, come on, I am the fastest guy in school ...why don't they care, you know? Why don't they care about me."

TJ's heart broke for Marty. He suddenly felt 100x more thankful for his parents. He sat in quiet with the other boy for a while. After a bit TJ breaks the silence. "I'm sorry about your parents. You don't deserve that. But I can say for 100% sure if Buffy were to ever find out, she would not care. Anyone can see how much she cares about you.

"Yea, and I'm going to tell her but not today."

"Okay." TJ says simply. This is Marty's truth to tell on his time.

After a few more minutes, they walk back over to their awaiting friends. As TJ settles back into Cyrus' side, the shorter boy says "Everything okay?"

"Yea, everything is fine." He smiles and Cyrus doesn't push for more. The rest of the evening is a lot of fun. TJ's life could not be better. He has a cute boyfriend that he loves and so many great friends, now. Sometime soon he thinks he will tell the rest of them his truth.

That night after he and Cyrus spend too much time on the porch saying goodnight, he slips into his house. His mom sits on the couch watching an old movie. He simply sits down beside her, hugs her and whispers "Thanks mom."

Thanks for reading and thank you to @kippens-a-goodman for the idea to add Marty in!

[erintoknow]

no reason for suspicion of me

fallen hero rebirth fanfic; helping out ortega with a favor, what can go wrong? ~3.9k words [ao3]

edited to add: i forgot to add a content warning for suicidal thoughts :x sorry!!

–––

“Have you seen the new building yet? They just finished it, oh, two years ago now? The Marshal program is getting a lot more money these days than it used to. Or–” Ortega laughs, she hasn’t noticed you’ve stopped follow her yet. “–Maybe Steel is just that much better at me than getting funding.”

You were an idiot. Of course this was a trap.

“Ariadne?” Ortega turns back to you as gawp at the building in front of the two of you. The Taxi already gone. You could run but that’ll just make it worse. 

“Ortega–” you hiss through your teeth, “you didn’t mention your friend was part of the Rangers.”

The brick of a building in front of the two of you is like some modern throwback to brutalist architecture. All reinforced cement with thick mirrored glass windows. Should have known. 

She peers at you, the smile on her face drifting away. “I didn’t want to get into detail at a diner, you know? Why, is it a problem?”

You bite your lip and fold your arms. You need to stay in control. Don’t panic. Ortega doesn’t have any reason to suspect anything. Don’t give her one. “I just– I didn’t think to expect it. Did–didn’t I mention being retired? Trying to keep a low profile, even?”

“Ari…” There’s a flash of worry on Ortega’s face. Maybe that was the wrong thing to say, shit. “It’ll be fine. If anything happens, you can always come to me. I promise you.”

She doesn’t know what she’s saying. What she’s promising.

“Talk is cheap, you know.” You smooth down your sweatshirt, push up your sunglasses.  You take a half-step towards Ortega and the building entrance and then waver, hesitating. “I… do I look okay?” It’s a little late to try and dress up, but damn if you’ll walk to your potential execution looking like a hobo.

A smile pulls up on Ortega’s face, “You look like you’re drowning in that sweatshirt of yours. So… just like old times really.”

You narrow your eyes at her. “F-f-fuck you, Ortega.” She’s still a smug ass, apparently. That hasn’t changed.

She laughs, “Yeah? Sure.” She pushes the door open, gesturing you inside. “After you, Ms. Becker.”

Breath in, breath out. Into the den of vipers you go.

You pocket your sunglasses once you’re inside, with no small amount of regret. The extra layer of protection would be welcome right now, but you need to look normal. Or, well, as normal as a thirty-something has-been trans woman washout can be.

Following Ortega through the building is a balancing game of managing your own nerves. Anxiety and nausea clawing at your throat. The half-memories from your previous escape riding Argent’s mind through the building aren’t helping. Drab stonework brings to mind visions of the web of wiring hiding underneath. A picture frame you can remember hiding a security camera. Jamais vu, you might call it. You’ve seen it all before, but not as yourself, and not quite like this. 

The secretary smiles at the two of you as Ortega waves, doesn’t stop you for questioning. She knows and trusts Ortega, you pick up on that immediately. You should be relieved she’s not Sarah, the old secretary. The Rangers knowing is bad enough, you don’t need word getting out that ‘Sidestep’ is back from the dead. It’s hard not to wonder about about her now though. Did Sarah go back to college like she kept complaining she would? Get that absolutely useless art degree? When did she quit?

It doesn’t matter.

Why do you even care?

You shouldn’t.

The guard doesn’t even lift his head as the two of you walk through the security scanners. So you still come up as ‘normal’ that’s good. You wrap your song tight around your mind regardless, no sense chancing any sort of trap. Security guards. That’s new. To what end? Anyone dumb enough to attack the HQ would just mulch rent-a-cops.

You follow Ortega into the elevator, watch as she punches in a security code, 3-5-6-2. Different than what you remember from Argent. Interesting. Did they change the code after the attack or is it a regular thing? The old HQ had nothing like this.

You stick your hands into your pockets and rock back and forth on your heels, chewing the inside of your cheek. Ortega has no reason to suspect anything. She’s just… being Ortega, trying to drag you back into her life. You’ll do her this last favor and then… you don’t know. Lose the cellphone you gave her the number for. It was a burner anyway.

“You okay there, Ari?” She side-eyes you as she punches a floor number.

You wince, “Y-yeah, I’m fine.” Change the subject, quick. “So. I– I can’t believe you’re not the marshal anymore. Is that right?”

“A lot of things changed after the whole Heartbreak fiasco. A lot of people died, friends died… I thought you had too.”

“Heartbreak? Wait. You mean… oh.”

She frowns, and you can watch her face through the mirrored wall, even as neither of you look at each other. “I don’t know who came up with the name.”

“It’s kind of melodramatic isn’t it?” You thumb the lining of your pockets, focus on the floor. Don’t look at the reflection of yourself in the wall. A pale ghost, disheveled with sunken eyes and unkempt hair.

Seven years has seen you graduate from delinquent teen to sullen transient. 

“Maybe.” Ortega still doesn’t look at you. “Anyway, I couldn’t take the responsibility anymore. Knowing if I had made a different call you both might still be alive? So… I tried to retire, but it didn’t agree with me either.” God, she sounds so tired. Old. “I’m kind of jealous actually.” She adds as the elevator comes to a stop.

You furrow your brow. “Jealous? For what?”

Ortega leans forward into a security camera as it scans her face. “Being able to retire?”

That gets a weak laugh from you. “You… you really shouldn’t be.” Nausea churns in your stomach again. Does she really no idea? “It’s– it’s nothing to be proud of.” God knows you’re not doing this because you want to. It’s simply the only option you have left.

Well not the only option but–

The doors hiss open and Ortega steps through, “Ari, you always made me proud. There’s no shame in retiring.”

You wipe at your eyes, a pressure making your nose itch, as you follow Ortega out and down a hallway. Your… memory? Impression of Argent’s memory? Has been fading, faster as you try to conjure it up again, but you think this must be the fourth floor conference room you’re heading towards and–

One wall of the conference room is a tinted pane-glass window. Standing with her back turned towards you both is Lady Argent, silver skin and blue skinsuit, her silver hair pulled back in a ponytail. A horse-shoe shaped conference table takes up most of the room.

The woman whose body you stole and sent on a rampage through the middle of a mall after stealing one of the most dangerous and illegal weapons locked up in the Ranger vault.

Oh no.

On the other side, across from Argent, in his own blue Skinsuit the man you recognize to be the Herald looks up as the two of you enter. He joined the Rangers the same year you returned to Los Diablos and he looks young enough to still get carded at bars. The black-eye that you-as-Argent gave him is coming along well. As soon as you look at him, his face lights up like it’s suddenly Christmas morning. After a second of staring back, his face reddens and he coughs into his hand, looking away from you.

At the head of table, slouched in his seat is Marshal Steel, drumming his fingers against the armrest. Even without his power armor on, the weight from his mods makes his seat sag underneath him. When he locks eyes with you, you’d swear your heart stopped for a second. You can pick up his suspicion, even as his face remains blank. Nothing’s changed there, then.

What has changed is who’s missing. Neither of them surprises exactly but–

No Anathema. An assembly of Rangers without her? A dull ache twists your guts. Normally you try not to think about her. Her last moments. But this has hardly been a normal day.

No Sentinel either. Reading about his retirement had been a surprise, but also a relief. Wind powers like his would have been a pain in the ass to face in a fight.

Both transgender Rangers gone. Some of the only people who knew your own status. Where either of these new Rangers trans? Unlikely. Seven years had improved the public’s opinion on trans folk considerably, but the media would have still sniffed something like that out and had a field day with it. Another reason to avoid having paperwork, frankly.

Ortega claps her hands together, and you break eye-contact. “Sorry I asked Angie to call everyone in like this.” She points you towards a chair, “take a seat Ari, we’ll explain everything.”

You take your hands out of your pockets, glance around the room again. Any hidden restraints on the chairs? Poison gas vents? You carefully sit down and breath a sigh of relief as nothing proceeds to happen. Ortega sits down next to you, and Herald takes a seat across from you both, a smile beaming on his face. Oh this kid is going to be trial, you can already tell.

You glance back at Steel, he’s looking between you and Ortega. You hold up your hand in a weak wave. “Hello Chen. It’s… it’s– uh, been a while.”

Steel leans forward, stops drumming his fingers. “So. You’re not dead after all.” His tone is dry, empty of any pretense of warmth. “I had assumed Argent must have misheard.”

You wince. “Ortega can fill you in. It’s– it’s a long story.” 

Steel’s merciless gaze lands on Ortega again. “Ortega has a lot of things she needs to fill me in about.”

Ortega frowns at that, “Later, alright?” She glances over towards Lady Argent, who has yet to acknowledge either one of you. “That’s not why I brought Ari here.”

Steel crosses his arms, his chair grinding in protest as he leans back. “Agreed.”

Herald clears his throat with a couch and folds his hands neatly in front of him. “I for one am ecstatic to have your help,” he looks directly at you and you sink down into the chair. He pauses for a second and then adds, slightly more timid, “And, uh, that you’re alive obviously.” He gives you a nervous grin and a god, you figured the boy scout act was for the press, but he’s the real deal, isn’t he? His mind practically radiates it. “Charge always spoke highly of you, and now that we have Sidestep back in–“

You throw up a hand, enough is enough. “Just– just Ariadne. Please. Sidestep was years ago.” So was Ariadne, but you can’t exactly ask them to call you an object. That might get some stares.

“Of course, Ariadne.” Herald’s grin is wide and flawless, and it’s all you can do not to roll your eyes.

Herald hasn’t been on the scene for long but there’s already been rumors churning about grooming him to be the next Marshal once he has some years of experience under his belt. Sure he can fly and supposedly has superhuman durability but it feels like you hear about him holding press conferences and grand openings more than any actual, well, being a hero.

And then there’s Argent. Who still hasn’t said anything, hasn’t turned to look at you. There’s no way she would recognize you. Right? She never saw you. Right?

Ortega takes the silence as permission to start. “I know we all have other things to do, and I know I should respect your retirement Ariadne, but we can’t trust anyone else with this.”

A knot twists in your stomach, and you have to stop yourself from sinking any further in your chair. You’ve got a bad feeling about this. “It’s… it’s that bad, is it?” You try to smile, but it doesn’t feel right, fake. As fake as you sitting here in this chair while Lady Argent stares out the window.

Herald rubs his arm. Bruise under there too? So much for that durability. “You’re, uh, you’re not wrong.” He looks towards Steel.

Steel purses his lips, staring you down. You swallow the lump in your throat and stare back.

He relents. “A week ago, an unknown assailant was able to manipulate Lady Argent into stealing an extremely dangerous item.” He pauses, still looking at you. Forcing yourself to meet his gaze is getting increasingly uncomfortable.  “Argent doesn’t remember much, but got the impression this wasn’t one of the usual villains.”

You look away to table in front of you. They’ve got you. They’ve fucking got you. Why the whole pageantry? Just kill you already. Fucking bastards. They’ll drag you back to the farm, and that’ll be it. The rest of your life a test object. If you’re lucky; they’ll just kill you.

Where did you fuck up? What did Argent pick up on? God, you’re so fucking useless.

Nausea again.

“It was one of our own.” You look up. Lady Argent has turned away from the window, staring right at you, voice hard. She looks you over, sizing you up. You keep waiting for the moment of recognition, the gasp, the widening eyes, or the snarl, the sharped teeth. But no, nothing, just silence and then: “I can’t remember much, but that’s the impression I got. It was someone that was supposed to be on our side.”

You blink. “W-wait– a hero?” How on earth did you leave that impression? Some lingering guilt?

You don’t feel guilty. You don’t feel anything. She’s the enemy. They all are. 

Argent scowls as she sits down, arms folded over her chest as she leans back in the chair. “We can’t just bring in any of the psychics we know. It could be anybody. And you, well, you’re a perfect nobody.” There’s a pause, then her scowl deepens and she waves a hand. “Well, not exactly a nobody. Ortega always talked you up.”

You frown at that, and glance at Ortega. “…Ortega likes to exaggerate.” What has she been telling people about you? “My powers really aren’t nearly strong enough to go against someone that could… control you like that.” You frown. What was the lie you always went with back in the old days? “I can read some surface thoughts, get an edge in fight. That’s about it.”

“You’re a lot stronger than you think you are.” Ortega oh-so-helpfully reassures you, a smile on her face.

God, you could just jump out the window right now. Possessing Argent was a one-and-done thing. Or it was supposed to be. And now here she is, in front of you. Her face a mask but you can pick up a hint of what roils underneath and– You rub your eyes, try to look exasperated to hide the nausea, the self-disgust.  “If you say so.”

They really don’t suspect you of anything, do they? You’re just the ghost of an old friend, come back at just the right time in their hour of need. Turn them down and they’ll find someone else. Expose you. Stop you.

Why would you feel guilty? Lady Argent is the enemy.

You put your hand down on the table, avoid looking at her, your other rests on your lap, tracing patterns on your leg. “If… Lady Argent is okay with it, I could try to clear up the memories. There might be some more clues she can’t remember just yet.”

Plant clues more like. Frame someone, more like.

Argent yanks her hand away from the table, the shock on face soon covered up again in a hard mask. She nods, “Fine. If that’s what it takes.” She scowls and brushes her hair back, “Let’s do it then.”

“W-w-wair, hang on,” you wave your hands, “I’m going to need time to prepare myself. I…” How do you phrase this? “I haven’t used my ability for something like this in years.”

This is going to be a project alright. Not like you needed another one. You’ll need a plausible scapegoat to send them after, some plausible clues Argent can latch on to… A whole other mental state to work yourself into so that she won’t make a connection to your previous attack… Oh god, this is crazy.

It’s be easy to just jump out the the window. You bite the inside of your cheek and wince. No– not yet. You can steal weasel your way out of this.

You realize Steel is eyeing you again and run a hand through your hair. Finally, Steel nods. “That’s probably wise.”

“I’ll need… I don’t know, maybe a week, or two?” Stare up at the ceiling light, reviewing your schedule. Your time frame is tight enough as it is. “And also…” You glance back at Ortega, she’s still smiling at you, damnit. “Can I have Ortega there? I can’t read her, so it’s not like she’ll influence anything.” You try to smile back at her.

You can’t trust any of them, but you absolutely don’t want to be alone in a room with Argent. There’s plenty of worse things then death.

What is Argent capable of, anyway? She feels pain, but doesn’t get hurt. She can morph her hands into razor-sharp blades, although you couldn’t figure it out when you possessed her. Is her silver skin some kind of metallic coating or is she like that to the bone? Not to mention she can see electrical wiring through walls and into the infrared.

You need Ortega there.

Ortega and Argent exchange looks, but what exactly it means goes over your head. Another little reminder that life went on without you. “If you don’t mind, Angie?” Ortega asks.

Argent looks between the two of you. “Fine. We’ll try it your way. But try and get ready quick.”

Steel has a notebook open in front of him –when did that happen?– and writes something down. “Very well, I believe that concludes today’s business. You’re all dismissed.”

You sag in your chair, and close your eyes. Thank fucking god.

Ortega gets up to talk to Argent, Herald sits in his seat looking lost. This is your chance to get the fuck out. You push your seat back and slip out into the hallway, tracing your path back to the elevator.

“Wait–” You freeze and so does your heart. Turn around and Steel is walking down the hallway towards you. “I’ll walk you out.” What expression is that on his face? Try to brush his mind, regret? That can’t be right.

The floor creaks under him, footsteps heavy. Did his legs get replaced with artificial ones? There had been a rumor about it. Something about his left arm seems different too. Damn, the years haven’t exactly been kind to Chen either it seems.

Not that you feel bad for the bastard.

Chen clears his throat as he walks alongside. “So.”

“So.” You agree.

Steel steps in front of you. “So, you survived.”

“That’s debatable” You don’t smile. There’s no point in pretending around Steel. All he cares about is his precious Rangers and making sure you know your place is outside of that.

“Now you’re back.” Steel doesn’t move. Would he stop you if you tried to pass him?

You grit your teeth. “I didn’t choose to be.” True in more ways than one. “Ortega tricked me into this. If I’d known–”

“Then you wouldn’t have come.”

“Yeah. I’m retired.” And then, because the frustration is bubbling up again and you can’t help yourself, you add; “emphasis on tired.”

Steel crosses his arms, ignoring the joke, as always. “You never were comfortable here, even before.”

You blink, taken aback. “What? No. That was you.” You jab a finger at him. “That was all you. You made it hard to feel like home.”

Steel doesn’t flinch, doesn’t back down. “It was never your home.”

Neither do you. “Yeah, and you going out of your way like this goes to show why it never was.”

To your surprise, that actually gets Steel to look away. He frowns. “I’m sorry. That was uncalled for.”

“What?” An apology is the last thing you ever expected to get from Chen of all people.

“We may not have been friends,” you snort as he says it, “but I didn’t want to see you dead. I’m happy you're still alive.”

You have to take a step to the side, rub at your face, nose. Steel hated you. Despised you even. Right? Didn’t he? Why would apologize? Or say that? You want him to be lying. Need him to be lying. But if he is, it’s a goddamn master class because your telepathy isn’t picking up anything to the affect.

He’s stilted and awkward and all the charm of poison oak, but he’s not lying. Fuck. Fucking hell.

“Ariadne?” He’s watching you. Damn it.

Take a breath, wipe your eyes, breath out. “I’m fine.” You’re in control. You feel nothing. “L-look, Steel, let’s not pretend, okay? We were never friends.”

“No,” Chen agrees, “but we were allies. Teammates even.”

“Well bully for you, I’m retired now.” He has to be lying. Somehow.

“Are you?”

You grit your teeth. “Yes.” Technically you’re not lying, you suppose. “I’ve got no attention of getting involved with the Rangers again, trust me.” You smile as you shake your head.

Chen meets your smile with a terse one of his own. “Then I’m glad we understand each other.”

“Everything okay here?”

You jump, taking your hand away from your face to glare in Herald’s direction. Fuck you’re out of it if you’re letting the kid get the jump on you.

“Herald.” Chen gives you a thoughtful look. “I thought you’d stay with Argent.”

Oh, that’s right, Herald and Argent are supposed to be dating. You’d completely forgotten. It sure didn’t seem like it back there.

Herald wrings his hands, “Ortega’s talking to her, so… I thought I’d come check…” He withers under the combined weight of your’s and Chen’s stares. “Ortega asked me. To make sure nothing… had happened…”

Chen sighs. “Of course she did.”

Herald glances between the two of you and realize he’s hovering an inch off the floor. Nervous response? How much control does he actually have over his flight? You don’t like the way he keeps stealing glances at you.

You hold out your hands, palms up, “I’m fine. Chen here is just walking me to the door.”

Herald looks between the two of you again. Clueless. confused. Guess no one shared those little stories huh, wonderbread? “Okay. I just… wanted to make sure?”

Chen straightens up, glancing sideways at you. “We were just… reminiscing.”

You flinch at the word, but focus on Herald instead. “Ortega worries too much.”

“I’ll uh, I’ll get back to it then.” Herald smiles at you. You really wish he wouldn’t. “It was nice to actually get to met you, Sidestep.”

“Ariadne.” You correct him without even thinking about it, and then blink in surprise at yourself.

Fuck. This is Ortega’s fault. Ariadne is dead. That’s not who you are anymore. But spending the afternoon having to answer to it, being called that name… it’s starting to feel like yours again.

It hurts like hell.

Steel turns away, back down towards the elevator. “Come on, let’s get you out of here.”

–

next: [maybe it will break and maybe it won’t]

[fluidityandgiggles]

Sleep Is For The Weak - Chapter 16

Previous Chapters: Prologue, Chapter 1, Chapter 5, Chapter 10, Last Chapter

Writing Masterlist - for previous chapters not otherwise linked, Read on AO3

Notes (I guess): I realize it took me way too long to do this, but I can explain. Uhh...

So for those of you who don’t know, I haven’t been home since September, and I won’t be home for another... two weeks, more or less? I’ve been to places where I couldn’t know if I’d have working wifi or any wifi at all so updating this fic has been a mission. So I do whatever I can to update at reasonable times.

With that being said, I finished this chapter way back last month while on a two week long trek in Nepal and haven’t had the opportunity to upload it, so I’m grateful I can now. Because this one... was a hell of an exposition ride for a lot of shit I planned a long long time ago.

Quick disclaimer - some bits of this chapter deal with the definition of transgender, and a specific learning disorder. The definition of transgender mentioned in this chapter has been taken from the DSM-IV-TR, which is a defunct edition of the DSM that came out in the year 2000 and has been replaced by the DSM-5 in 2013. The definition has since been changed and separated, and I believe it is now called gender dysphoria, though I’m not quite sure. But it does not reflect my opinions on how dysphoria is related to being trans, I do believe (and have several sources to back me up, including the DSM-5) that you don’t have to be dysphoric to be trans. The same goes for this learning disorder, what is said in this chapter reflects only the way the characters think of it - and it will change later on, I can assure you - and not at all what I would think or say about it.

As is tradition, thanks to @whatwashernameagain for KHS and for all her patience with me and my shenanigans (and not getting frustrated with my stupid ideas) and to @broadwaytheanimatedseries for the original idea and for giving me the best commentary for my screenshots when I send them. And also to @winglessnymph , @asleepybisexual and @anony-phangirl , who have fallen out of the loop but are still there. I know I haven’t sent you anything much in recent days, but... still.

Tag list (sort of): @bunny222, @ab-artist, @sweet-and-sour-shadowling, @ilovemygaydad, @your-username-is-unavailable, @virgilcrofters, @violetblossem, @maybe-i-like-the-misery, @book-of-charlie, @thatsanswitch, @thatrandomautist, @thebiggestgaypirate, @marshmallow-the-panda

(Wanna be tagged? Lemme know!)

Trigger warning: period appropriate transphobia (the early 00s were not exactly trans-friendly). This chapter also includes (rather controversial) opinions/ideas about the definition of transgender (as mentioned in a now-defunct, but then the most recent, edition of the DSM), discussion of abortion, mentions of past self-harm, discussion of personality disorders and hospitalization, panic attacks, and description of rejection sensitive dysphoria. I’m pretty sure I forgot something though, so let me know if I have so I can add it.

—————

Friday, May 30th, 2003

"...your valedictorian, Jenna Miranda Wheeler."

"Class of 2003…"

New York was beautiful in May.

Sadly, that was not where Remy was heading today.

According to Linda, Stephen was going to go on a business trip for at least two weeks in June, starting late May. So Remy was invited over for the summer. Not his first choice, but Leah begged him to come and Emile said that it might be a good idea. But…

Spending more than a day at Linda's, combined with the knowledge that Jenna and India have graduated just a few days ago and Chris hasn't, was a good enough reason for Remy to feel shitty. And he did.

The main upside was that Georgia was beautiful in May too.

He managed to cheer himself up somewhat by thinking of the good things that happened this month - Emile's TOVA results (9/9 inattentive symptoms, 4/9 hyperactive-impulsive, definitely has inattentive type ADHD), India's name being called at graduation instead of her deadname, Jenna graduating valedictorian, his friends moving to Virginia and so on - by the time the taxi from the airport pulled up in front of the, by now, rather familiar house.

And then his stomach dropped.

Stephen was still there.

"Do you need help with those bags, Rebecca?" He asked, eyeing the massive, neon pink duffel bag and the incredibly heavy purple backpack that sat on the sidewalk near Remy as he tapped his foot nervously.

"Not from you I don't. Thanks for the offer, but… no thanks."

He was too proud to admit that the duffel was too heavy for him to lift and he could barely drag it, but he packed most of his clothes and books in it. Some were mailed home. But not most.

"That shit gotta be heavy as fuck—"

"I said, no thank you. Now, move out of my fucking way."

Leah was napping by the time he finally dragged everything inside, but Rachel was doodling in the living room, smiling brightly when she saw him come through the door. She abandoned her crayons and waddled all the way to hug him.

As much as he barely knew her, Remy definitely loved Rachel too.

"I'm going to daycare," she mumbled somewhat, trying to use words she didn't quite know yet. "You have to come!"

"You're such a big girl!" He ruffled her pigtails, picking her up. She was so light for a two-year old. "Going to daycare already?"

"Mmhm."

"I'm so proud of you!"

She just hugged his neck and babbled on about her friends and daycare, her hand flying and her almost falling from his hold. This was another happy thing to add to the list.

He wasn't happy. But this was happy. For now.

—————

Stephen left on his business trip at around seven thirty, and Remy took a huge sigh of relief. Leah also woke up from her nap a few hours earlier, all grumpy and upset for some reason, and Remy tried talking her into telling him why she was so upset.

Linda said it was because of the nap. Leah only got even more upset.

"Why am I here?" Remy asked during dinner, while Leah entertained herself (and he was sure she didn't notice much) and Rachel was almost dozing off. "We haven't had a single good interaction since I was five years old, Linda."

"Am I no longer allowed to want to be around my son, Remy?" She stung back, looking anything but as aggressive as she just sounded.

"I'll be honest with you, kid. I know you don't like me. I can understand why. But what I don't understand is why you're bringing this up in front of your younger sisters. They're too young for this to—"

"I saw a movie about penguins on TV," Leah started rambling. "They're really weird…"

The argument stopped just as quickly as it started, and Leah was allowed to go on and on about penguins bringing rocks to each other. So he proceeded to just glare at Linda, who helped Rachel eat her pasta. This was awful, this was absolutely the worst situation he could've found himself in, and… he just wanted out.

And he kept wanting out even as Rachel already went to sleep, Leah was busy doing her homework last minute, and Linda asked Remy to help her clean up.

"I'm only here because Leah asked me to," he almost hissed as he was tasked with packing the leftovers in incredibly familiar tupperware containers.

"I want to spend more time with you, Remy. I'm still your mother—"

"Well, you haven't acted like it, like, ever!"

Linda sighed, putting the plate she was holding in the dishwasher. "I don't want to sound like I'm making any excuses—"

"So don't make any."

"—but I was barely your age when I had you. This is no excuse, I'm not trying to say that I had no idea what I was doing because of that, but I sacrificed so much of my life to raise you!"

"You could've aborted me! You could've been smart and used protection in the first place!"

"Condoms aren't a fail-proof—"

"Face it, Linda. You never wanted me. You're not homophobic or transphobic for the sake of it, it's clear you have at least some level of respect to queer people. You just never wanted me in the first place."

The next plate she was holding broke in the sink. "How fucking dare you say that?!"

"I'm just saying—"

"I have never wanted something in my life more than I wanted you!" Her screams hurt Remy's ears, going as far as to make Leah cry in the other room. Linda immediately lowered her voice. "I know I've been a bad mother to you. I regret every decision I've ever made while I was married to your father, except being married to him and having you. And I've spent every day since leaving you and your father regretting my decisions, and wanting to make it up to you, but you kept pushing me away. How do you think that makes me feel, huh? Do you still think you're the only one who's been robbed of something in this relationship?"

"...you had Leah while you were still married to Dad" was all he could say. And he hoped he'd have the last word. "Was she a mistake too?"

Sadly, you can't always get what you want.

"Leah… is problematic. But she wasn't a mistake either. None of you are, and you can stop saying that. Whatever is wrong with her does not make her a mistake. Just as your gender identity disorder does not make you a mistake."

"No, you're right. It doesn't. It makes me transgender. A female-to-male man. You know those terms? Female to male, transgender? It's what people call it nowadays."

There was another long moment of silence as Linda cleaned up the broken plate and Remy finished packing up the leftovers, and Leah stopped crying.

It was a stressful silence. Very typical of home life with Linda Brigham-Hollander.

"...you may not have come at a time I liked," she sighed after everything, falling into a chair. Remy was ready to leave the kitchen, but this wouldn't let him. "I know we could've… waited a few more years. But you came when you did, and I don't regret that. You were never a mistake. I may have a hard time understanding… what… your identity. I'm trying my best to educate myself now, you know—"

"That's almost five years too late."

"I don't know what Leah told you about her school life, but whatever hardships she got understanding stuff—"

"She has no trouble understanding stuff as far as I can see—"

"Educational stuff. School material. She got that from me. Education comes harder for me, you may not know that. I was never the brightest student and I only completed my high school diploma when you were three years old. Don't get me wrong, this has nothing to do with you. But I couldn't learn when you asked me to. It felt like—"

"Linda, it didn't take Dad five years to be able to call me by my name and use the correct pronouns. Even if you don't mean it this way, this is bullshit to me. And I hope you get it."

And then he got up and left, leaving her to her own. If she cried, well… that's none of his business.

—————

Sunday, June 8th, 2003

Nathalie and Emile were getting ready for the Tony awards when Emile had a panic attack.

No, that's not true. Emile has been having panic attacks all week long for some weird reason he couldn't explain, most likely not being able to talk to Remy all week long since his phone died and he couldn't get a new one just yet. But today was the worst one. So Julie lent him her phone for a call, to explain himself so he won't panic so much, but…

But Remy wouldn't understand. He'd be mad if Emile tried to call him from Julie's phone because of some panic attacks… and then he'd hate him, and then… and then…

Then he wouldn't have a best friend anymore…

What was India's phone number again…?

She picked up on the fourth ring. "India McGinty—"

"It's Emile," he almost sobbed the second she picked up. "I… I have a question…"

"Oh, honey, of course. What is it?"

"Do you think Remy would hate me…? My phone died and I can't get another one until next week and—"

"Emile, are you… are you crying right now?"

"No… I did before, I just…"

She sighed before clearing her throat. That's it, she hates him too—

"Do you mind if I pass you over to Jenna? She's better at this than me."

"...okay…"

"...Emile?" Jenna's voice was softer than India's somehow. She'd never raise her voice, but Emile was scared of the people who'd be there when she does once she becomes a lawyer. "Can you please explain what's going on?"

"Well… my phone died, and I can't tell Remy because he's with his mom and I don't wanna call him while he's with his mom, so I'm scared that if I don't talk to him all summer he'll hate me and then he won't talk to me anymore and I can't—"

"Let's slow down, you're only upsetting yourself. Remy is your best friend, right?"

"Yeah… I mean, I like him a bit more but, but it's not like I can just tell him that, and…"

"That's fine, we're not gonna focus on this for now. That's for another time. But he's your best friend, right?"

"Yeah, I just told you!"

"So why would he hate you for something like that? He's going to understand, I'm sure."

"I don't… know… it just feels like he might…"

"I know. This feeling fucking sucks, doesn't it?" She chuckled. Emile couldn't answer to that. He just… he couldn't. "But it's not healthy to dwell on this feeling. It might become a self-fulfilling prophecy if you fret about it so much."

"What do you mean…?"

"...have I ever told you that I was institutionalized until my second year of college?"

He couldn't stop his jaw from dropping. "No…"

"Okay. So I'll tell you now. I… how squeamish are you? I don't want to… trigger anything…"

"I don't know… I don't… I don't think I really mind much…?"

"Okay, I… I'll censor it anyway. Is that okay with you?"

"Yeah."

"So when I was fourteen, I started harming myself. It's not… it was what you'd think, but not for the most part. I didn't cut really. But my parents knew, and they gave a ton of fucks and not just because they had a reputation to uphold like I thought they did back then. They just… they gave all the fucks."

"Okay… I'm sorry, I didn't—"

"Don't apologize, you had no part in this. And you never will. I promise."

"Okay."

"Two years after I started, my parents sent me to a psych ward. At that time they thought I was depressed, it was too early to diagnose me properly, so… I've lived for three years on doses of antidepressants that didn't do a whole lot, because nobody knew. I was finally diagnosed with borderline personality disorder when I was nineteen, my medication prescription was fixed and I was let out of there when they decided I'm doing well enough to be able to live on my own again. I spent my first year of law school with a nurse attached to my hip, can you imagine?" She laughed, and Emile struggled to hold back a smile.

"Actually yeah… my sister is narcoleptic…"

"Oh shoot, sorry… didn't mean that. Anyway… back to the topic at hand, yeah? I was… infatuated, for a lack of a better word, with this guy. His name was David. I thought I was in love with him, but it turned out I idolized him to a point where he became my favorite person, and that was an incredibly toxic experience. He was like… like Angelina Jolie in Girl, Interrupted. But dialed up to eleven. He was a fucking asshole and I haven't seen him in years… he was transferred to another place after an incident that involved one of my friends, she ended up almost killing herself because of this guy. And my anxiety over being perfect for him, over making him like me and making sure that he keeps liking me, made me extremely unhealthy in the long run."

There was a pause, possibly for Emile to process. Most likely. This wasn't fair… this was totally not fair! Why did good people have to go through shitty things?

"My next favorite person after him was a girl I dated for a couple months before India." Jenna sounded kind of breathless at that, as if she was crying herself. "And… she made me talk to her. She asked me questions for clarification all the time and helped me with my anxiety, especially when I felt like this. I was tiring, but… it's the effort she put into this that counted. Emile… you gotta talk to Remy."

"But… but I can't…"

"Who said? Communication is key. I know it might be really hard, especially for you, but… call him. It's his birthday soon, right? In July?"

"Yeah…"

"Call him. Write down everything you want to tell him and tell him then. I promise it'll make your anxiety a lot easier to manage."

————

"Remy," Linda called from the living room as he was heading to bed. This was becoming ridiculous…

"I told you, I'm not talking to you for the rest of this—"

"I can't read a single word in this cursed book of yours."

"...what book?"

"This DSM thing. Remy, darling, why do you need this book? It's so difficult to understand, couldn't they have written better books about this?"

He ended up not going to bed after all, instead resorting to making himself tea and going to sit on the couch next to her.

"Mom, that's… that's the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, mom. It's existed since the fifties. This is the revised version. They can't make it simpler to understand, I don't think."

"Well, your grandma's always said that if a child can't understand what's written, it's because the writer is bad at what they're doing."

"And so have a lot of my professors, but sadly this is what we have to work with. What's so confusing anyway?"

"I was trying to read about your… your thing, the gender identity disorder thing…" she turned the book to him. The passages in this section have been highlighted the day he bought the book and he knew them by heart. Well, for the most part. "I'm sorry, but the words are just… long and confusing."

"...that's fine… it's totally fine, I can… I can simplify it for you…"

"I don't need you to simplify it for me, I know English. I just… I can't read this! Big and confusing academic paper words."

Oh fuck…

"I'm a painter, not an academic, Remy. I can't read. You know this. You've known this forever."

"I forgot you're dyslexic…"

"And what does forgetting that help you?"

"Nothing… let's… let's go over this together, okay? The sections that apply to me." He waited for Linda to nod, rather reluctantly, before putting on his own pair of reading glasses.

"So, to diagnose someone with gender identity disorder there are two criteria, identifying with the opposite gender and feeling dysphoria. In order to meet those criteria, you gotta not be intersex, which I think is pretty stupid, and also it has to affect your daily life."

"Yeah, I know that. Your shrink told us that when you were fourteen. Let's move on, okay?"

"...okay. In boys, aka trans girls, this doesn't apply to me… okay. Girls with GID, aka trans boys, display a intense negative reactions to parental expectations, blah blah blah, you never had any expectations of me so this doesn't apply…"

"No no no no no, you will read this out. No skipping."

"Okay, fine! Girls with GID display intense negative reactions to parental expectations or attempts to have them wear dresses or other feminine attire. Some may refuse to attend school or social events where such clothes may be required... They prefer boy's clothing and short hair, are often misidentified by strangers as boys, and may ask to be called a boy's name. Reminds you of something?"

"...go on."

"Their fantasy heroes, yeah no, I never had fantasy heroes…"

"You had She-Ra."

"Yeah, but she made me gay, not trans, mom. Prefer boys as playmates, contact sports… yeah, none of that either…"

"You used to play soccer as a kid. Your dad has a lot of pictures of that, you know."

"I… didn't actually know that… huh."

"You didn't learn to kick a ball from your father, though. I'll tell you that."

It took a bit of time for Remy to stop himself from giggling, deciding to sip his tea instead. It didn't work very well.

"Yeah… well… moving on, ‘they show little interest in dolls or any form of feminine dress up or role-play activity. A girl with this disorder may occasionally refuse to urinate in a sitting position. She may claim that she has or will grow a penis and may not want to grow breasts or menstruate. She may assert that she will grow up to be a man. Such girls typically reveal marked cross-gender identification in role-play, dreams and fantasies.' Does any of this sound familiar, mom? Because I don't… I don't actually know."

"Until now… yeah. All of that sounds incredibly familiar. Look, I…"

"I know what's you're gonna say, and please don't. It's fine. I know you panicked, I know you said things you didn't mean to, but… can we leave that for now? That's a bridge we're gonna deal with later. Now, adults with GID…"

They ended up staying up for far longer than either of them wanted to, but it was alright. Linda wanted to learn. Remy was willing to teach her.

They only barely made it to bed at three in the morning, the page bookmarked for tomorrow, when they'll continue reading.

[scapingfromchoices]

We are together, my love [Aisha x M Trans! Oc ; Evan] PT. 1/2

I just entered the college. I'm not good enough to be here, to be honest, but my father told me I'm a strong girl. I don't want to be called "girl" but it was my parents desire.

I'm in front of the building, watching how people come and go. I'm feeling so out of the scene. Everyone seems to have something to do. I sigh. I don't know why I'm here. Are my drawings that good? I start to walk, reading my schedule.

—Okay... Now... I need some--

I feel how everything in my bag falls. My books, notebooks, drawings...

—Shit, this can't be worse.

I stop, leaning to take my things.

"Well done, Kate, well done". I murmur while everyone ignores my presence there. Finally, all my belongings are in my bag again and I walk to my class.

Looking like a criminal, I sit behind everyone. I don't like to be the center of attention.

The professor enters in the room and smiles.

At least he's not bad looking.

—Good morning, class. I'm Aiden Bhatt. I'm your new teacher this year.

People start to murmur. I can overhear how some boys says he's gay or how some girls comment he's so handsome, but too feminine to be a man. Assholes.

He smiles to the people in the room and starts talking about the rules in his hours of classes. After that, he starts to say our names to see if we are punctual or in the classroom.

—Frederick?

—Yes, sir.

—Hellen?

—Here.

—Kate?

I raise my voice nervously and I scream like those anime characters.

—HERE.

Everyone stares at me and I blush, looking away.

—Kate, you don't need to yell. I see you.

He laughs sweetly. I don't know what I felt, but hearing him doing it, gave me so many years of life. Could someone be so cute?

—I'm... Sorry.

I see him smiling to me. Oh shit, here we go again, my fucking ass falling for someone older than me.

—Don't worry. You're nervous. I get it. I was in the same situation in my first day as a teacher. Then other people showed me how to be confident and well, I'm here, right?

He smiles again. Oh come on, just stop. I can't get over smiles. They are my weakness.

After some hour in class, the break finally came. I was exhausted trying to not look at Aiden. Why nobody told me professors in colleges are so gorgeous?

I sit alone in a bench, reading some people talking about their gender identity. Everytime I feel like I don't want this body. I look at the mirror and when I see my chest, my head really tell me that I'm horrible. When I hear my voice... Shit, what the hell? What am I? I need to talk with someone or I'll become crazy. But then again, why am I afraid? Is it a crime want to be happy? I sigh, trying not to cry, then, I feel a hand in my shoulder.

—No, I'm not selling some stupid stuff--

—Oh, what a shame, I wanted to buy you some time to talk.

I look behind me, seeing my teacher smiling to me. God? Is that you? Why is he talking to me? Alone? In this bench? Is he going to tell me I'm already out of his class? Okay, Kate, relax.

—Aiden... I didn't want to say--

He just laughs and sits along my side. Was his smile always that beautiful? I mean, look at him...

—Don't worry. Why are you here? Don't you have friends? Or someone to talk?

Is he worried about me? Oh my God, he is!

—I just got here. My parents told me I needed to go Hartfeld to study... Since is the most prestigious college.

—I see.

—But I don't want to be here! I wanted to go to--

—You don't want to be here? So you don't want to see me?

I stare at him confused. Is he trying to flirt? Because it's working.

I blush deeply.

—I-- No. I mean, I want to see you. You're so gorgeous and you smile-- I... I mean... Yes, I want to see you.

He laughs again. Damnit, stop. You're going to kill me...

—Relax, relax. It was a joke. I guess.

I sigh. I need to talk to him. I don't know why, but he is the first person who cares about me.

—Aiden... Did you ever... have some doubts about yourself? I mean, your identity?

He looks at me surprised.

—Yes...

—And how do you feel about that?

—Not so good.

—I... I'm sorry. I didn't have to ask you that.

I stand and I star running. Ugh, I'm so stupid. Why did I ask him that?

...

Few weeks later, I keep sitting alone in a bench, keeping in touch with gender identity. Chella Man... That man really has some guts. I think I know what is this. I'm transgender. And I need to tell it to my parents.

Today's Sunday. They're not working so I'm sure they're at home. I call them. I wait to hear my mother's voice and when she is in the phone, I start taking.

—Good morning, mother.

—Good morning, Kate. Having problems?

—Oh no, I just called to check on you...

—Right...

I sigh.

—Okay... Do you remember when I was just a kid? My clothes were always so boyish.

—Of course I remember. Your father always told me it was a problem.

—Well, I was searching for some information about that. I mean, I always wanted to be like a boy.

—Yes...

—Well, I think I'm transgender.

Silent falls. I can hear my mother breathing.

—I already knew that.

Wait, what? She knew? What? Since when? I'm shocked.

—You... knew?

—Of course, dummy. I'm your mother.

—I... Aren't you disappointed?

—Why? You're my blood. My little boy now, I love you no matter what. Your father will be hard to tell, but I'm sure he will love you.

—Thanks...

...

Aiden visits me in the break. We talk about some stupid stuff and sometimes I think we really connected. I don't know if he has forgot that conversation the other day. I don't care if some people say he's gay. It has been a while since we first met. I really think I have fell in love with him. I feel so right with him. He makes me laugh. He can protect me and he always helps me. Sometimes I feel that Aiden might be in love with me, but those feelings are always a mistake. He's my teacher. It's so cliche, I know. I saw those stupid romantic stories about the forbidden love because they were just a professor and his student. I always thought those films were trash, but it's happening to me. I have fallen in love with my teacher...

I'm not complaining. He's the real catch. Smart, funny, sweet, good looking... God, I'm so lucky.

—So tell me, Kate. The other day you told me something about your gender identity.

Oh shit. Did he needed to talk about that?

—Yes. I remember. Why?

—Did you talk with your parents?

I sigh loudly. I did, but just with my mother...

—Yes. My mother said she loves me.

He smiles. I will never be tired of it. Hell, I love his smile... I love him.

—That's really reassuring. It will be a shame. You're the sweetest person ever.

I blush.

—Aiden, I need to tell you something.

—Go ahead.

—I will start my transition tomorrow...

—Oh! That's fantastic. What's your name, then?

I laugh. He's really a good man.

—You can call me Evan.

—Okay, Evan.

—That's not everything. I will go to an art school. My mother convinced my father to let me go. The next week I will be attending it.

He looks at me sadly. It's the first time I see him not smiling while he watches me.

—You... are leaving?

—Yes. I'm sorry Aiden. This is not my place.

He sighs.

—It's good to know you will be happy now.

—I... Need to tell you something really important, again.

—Go ahead.

—I...

The moment I want to talk, my head blocks me. I'm nervous. I don't want to say it. I don't want to leave this knowing he is hating me.

—I will miss you.

I finally say that. He looks disappointed. Was he waiting for another thing?

—I will miss you, too.

...

—Evan! You're late again!

—I'm going!

I was dreaming about that again. About my first encounter with that man. I fell in love with him and I'm still in love with him. The only thing thaf mattered to me in that college was him. I really miss him. This art school is the best, but without him, nothing can make me forgot him. Shit, why I have to fell in love with my fucking teacher?

—Are you coming?

—Wait! I'm searching for my other shoe.

—We are late to the party! Aisha's gonna be mad at me!

—Aisha can wait, Ken!

I sigh deeply. I don't know who that Aisha is, but my friend a.k.a my stupid roommate didn't stop talking about her. I know he has boyfriend, but sometimes I feel he is falling for her. I laugh at that. It's impossible, he's so gay to do that.

Finally, I put my shoe and I run to the door. Ken is waiting for me, talking with his boyfriend.

—I didn't know he was coming.

—Oh, don't worry, mate, he's just driving us to the party.

I look at them, amusingly.

—But nothing about kisses, okay?

They laugh.

—We can't make any promises.

After a short ride, we are in front of a big building. How that girl can have this? It's huge...

We enter, admiring the walls, the floor, basically, everything. Suddenly, a female voice comes from the stairs.

—Ken! Viktor! You are here! And you brought some company.

I look at her. Did I see her before. She's so familiar to me... Anyway. She is beautiful. That short died hair, her smile... Her muscles... God, those arms. Damnit.

She walks approaching to me. She stares at me during some long seconds and she takes my hand.

—Nice to meet you! I'm Aisha and you are...?

I'm nervous. Why am I nervous? Ugh, my bisexual ass is fucking showing.

—I... I'm Evan.

Suddenly, she open her eyes surprised. What's happening? Did I say something wrong?

—Aisha? Are you okay?

She blinks repeatedly.

—Ah, yes. I'm... okay.

She keeps staring at me, until Ken breaks the moment.

—Okay, Aisha, while you talk with Evan, I'm gonna check the drinks.

—Right, check.

Aisha and I talk at the same time.

—You really know Ken, don't you?

She asks me sweetly. I nod and laugh.

—Four years with him. Enough time to get to know someone.

—Since you are the new guy here, I'll show you the house. Stay with me or you'll get lost.

—Then I'll be in your side. My sense of direction is not really good.

We walk through the house, talking about the rooms, sometimes about our classes. She's a girl from second year. I never saw her, but well, I guess we haven't got the chance to meet before.

—So, do you like it?

I nod. The building is really beautiful, not to mention the girl with me. Shit, I wanted to be loyal to Aiden, but I can't. This girl really has something. Damnit Kim! Why are you so stupid.

—Of course. It's like a castle. But how did you get it. I mean, art school students are known to be "not so rich".

She laughs loudly. Oh God... She sounds like Aiden. Wait, did I become crazy or I'm obsessed with him. Whatever, I can't say no to a gorgeous girl.

—My parents are some famous people. They are known as the greatest-- Well, they're famous.

—Oh, sorry. I didn't want to...

—Don't worry.

She smiles at me. Wait, wait. That smile... Aiden! What did you do to me? I see you in every place I visit.

—I... Aisha...

—Yes?

—Do you like men? I mean, you know, to date them.

Wait, Evan. What the hell? Why did you ask that to her? Are you insane? Evan, you're stupid, stupid, stupid--

—Not really. I don't find them attractive, except you.

Wait, what? She finds me attractive?

—You do?

—Of course, Evan. I always found you attractive.

Always? What is she talking about? Right! You dumbass, she's the person you were thinking of all this time. She's the person who talked with you in the breaks. The person who made you feel special. She's the person. She is. You were in love and you still are, with her. With Aisha. No, wait, not with Aisha, just with the person. You don't care about it. You just love them. How I did not recognize her?

—You... You... I... Missed you!

I hug her, sobbing like a little boy. Oh my God. That person... Is here...

—Aisha... Aisha, I love you. I have not told you that because I was afraid of your answer. I thought you were going to ditch me or something...

She laughs, taking my hand.

—I could never do that. I fell in love with you. Just with you. Not with a man, not with a woman, just you. Just the person you are, Evan.

I can feel how I want to yell, scream. I'm so happy. Did I really find the love of my life? She's right there. She's smiling to me, saying she loves me...

—Aisha... Do you want to go out with me? I mean, we can try to be a couple--

—Don't worry, Evan. I want to be your girlfriend.

She just kisses me. Sweet and tenderly, feeling her heart pounding. Feeling her smile taking my lips. I can really say that now, I'm really happy.

Okay, now so many people will come to hate this fic. Well, hear me, they fell in love with each other before starting their transition. But not with their gender, just fell in love with them. So that's why when they met again, they don't care about their gender, they just love each other. And don't say that's impossible because I was witness of it. A lesbian couple where one of them was a trans man. The other girl didn't ditch him cos she loved him. You know, I say it in that form just because I need you to understand So, i hope you can see what this fic means. Good night.

By the way, if you see some typos, I'm so sorry. My mother language is not English so maybe you'll see some of them. Lol.

tagging @pen-bandit and @lilyofchoices because they're the sweetest two persons I have ever met.

and @griffinshoodie because he is my trans buddy.

[salty-donut-collecter]

Why not?

Part Two 

Part Three.    MasterList Trigger warnings: Swearing (I wouldn’t even read the prompts if this bothers you), sexual harassment, math homework, aggressive behavior, mentions of alcohol. (Feel free to tell me if I need to add anything, or if I’ve missed something)

Prompts: “Do I look like I give a fuck?”, “I don’t know what I’m feeling, but I’m feeling a lot of  it.”, and “Not to dictate your life, but drop your shitty friends.”

Avengers x Reader, Peter x Reader, and Maximoff twins x Reader.

A/N: Yay! Part two! Editing was interesting, and writing Steve and Bucky is fun, but I have a question for Y'all. Does Thor and Bruce’s interaction make them seem like a couple? Looking back, I think the subtext makes their relationship seem romantic, but oh well.  Have fun reading, and I hope you enjoy :)

Tony had left you soon after you’d talked about the whole Jerry and adopting everyone thing.

So, once Tony was gone, after he’s left his personal phone number in your phone, you decided to go inside. Your toes were about to freeze off in the cold anyway.

Once inside, you found no one to be inside. It was eerily quiet, and you almost wondered what’d happened to Jerry and Jenet, but you brushed the thought away. Perfect, you realized, quickly and quietly rushing up the stairs to your room.

Well okay, it wasn’t necessarily your room. It belonged to you and every other foster kid here. You shared a room mainly because you had to, but most of you preferred it anyway. This way, you all knew who was possibly being held captive by Jerry. It was easier to look after each other.

You looked around, smiling when your eyes landed on three vibrantly colored heads of hair. You smiled. The blue hair belonged to Malissa, the orange ironically belonging to Scarllet, and the black belonging to Katie, flowing into a really pretty purple ombre. It almost made you jealous; seeing Katie’s hair. It was the coolest you’d ever seen.

Scarllet and Malissa where, from what you could see, helping Katie with her math homework.

“You just add them. See? Two plus two. That equals four.” Scarllet shrugged, chuckling at the horrendously confused look on Katie’s face. This was hopeless.

You chuckled too, causing everyone else to immediately take conscious notice of your presence.

You smiled, opening your arms as Katie ran over and hopped up, hugging your waist, “Welcome home, Y/n!” she smiled as wide as she could, showing off the new gap in her teeth from losing her first tooth.

“I think I can take her if you want, Scar.” you winked, holding back a laugh as Malissa nodded vigorously over her shoulder.

They always found it difficult to explain things to Katie because they underestimated her intelligence. Maverik was the only other person, aside from you, who could explain the math just right. It didn’t really click unless either of you explained it.

You giggle, looking down at Katie as she pulled away, “Hey Kate!” you smiled, “Do you mind if I help you with your math homework?” you had to at least ask Katie before making the change without her. It was one of the room’s rules: Consult everyone that has to do with the change or agreement before making it so.

The youngest’s smile somehow grew at the question and she nodded, pulling you over to her bunk. “We’re doing addition and I hate it!” she exclaimed, rolling her eyes as she cleared a spot for you on her bed, “Mrs. Lucey is horrible! None of it makes sense when she explains it!” Katie complained, an aggravated sigh escaping her lips as she hopped up onto her bed again.

“I can’t wait until our paychecks come in and we get a router booster,” Scarllet sighed, “When we have Wi-fi, I’ll teach you how to do research on my laptop.” she grinned.

Katie gasped, Scarllet was really protective over her laptop. It was her most prized possession, and she was going to let Katie use it? She couldn’t wait!

Scarllet nodded, saying something about Katie needing to be able to get answers for herself if her teacher couldn’t provide them properly.

For a six-year-old, Katie was really smart. The only problem was her shitty teacher, whom you’ve already had to go and see four times this year about how poorly she’s been teaching her students. Everyone’s hoping she gets fired before Micheal goes and talks to her. The day he does will probably be the day she dies, whether she’s ready for it or not.

So, with a small sigh, you look at Katie’s horribly thought out worksheet, leaning over the poorly printed paper as you began to explain how addition worked and when you use it in everyday life.

Damn, you thought, a yawn escaping your lips as she finished the sixth problem, this is gonna be a long night.

Tony got to the tower in no time. Calling a meeting as soon as he was in the elevator, and thinking of who could adopt who, and how he could convince everyone, if anyone, to adopt these kids.

He paused for a moment, thinking about how he hadn’t met the other six kids, but he’d surely meet them later, right? Yeah, totally, he reassured himself. Especially if the team thinks about adopting them.

The elevator beeped, letting him know he was at his stop. He sighed, walking into the now full conference room as if nothing had ever gone wrong in his life, but when he made his way to the front, a small frown tugged at his lips. How was he going to do this?

“Okay, Tony, why’d you call us in here?” Steve asked, a sigh escaping his lips, a yawn following. He’d just gotten back from a mission in Brazil and needed sleep. Not another meeting. The last thing he needed was another meeting.

Tony turned once he was at the front of the room, taking a deep breath and clearing his throat, “How would you like to adopt a bunch of kids?” he asked, his tone sounded playful, but the look in his eye was quick to explain how serious he was.

“What?” Peter looked mortified.

“Not you. You’re too young to adopt kids, Peter. You’re young enough to technically be adopted.” Clint reassured him.

Peter nodded, calming down a little, “That-- makes more sense.”

Bucky looked to Steve for a second, before turning to Tony, “Why would we adopt kids, Tony? How does that sound like a good idea?” Bucky asked, squinting at the iron man as if he’d lost his marbles.

“Well, half of us are in same-sex relationships and the other half can’t have kids. I figured you might be interested.” Tony shrugged, then cleared his throat again, quietly continuing, “And I found seven kids who need to be adopted.”

“Seven?” Bruce exclaimed, his breathing picking up faster than he liked. One kid would’ve been stressful enough on its own, but seven? No way.

Thor placed a reassuring hand on the panicking scientist’s shoulder, “That sounds most delightful. How old are they?” he asked, looking unphased in the midst of things. Bruce wondered how the fuck he could be so calm at the thought of seven kids.

“Most of them are teenagers. The youngest is six, then there’s an eight-year-old, a fourteen-year-old, a fifteen-year-old, a sixteen-year-old, and two seventeen-year-olds, including Y/n, the new recruit we wanted.” Tony listed, looking down at the small tablet in his hand.

Natasha gave him a knowing look, “C’mon Tony, there’s more to the story.” she frowned, “Why do you really want us to adopt them?”

Tony paused, frowning as well, “Well, their foster parents sound like assholes for one.”

Steve’s eyebrows furrowed, “So put them in a different foster home.”

Tony managed a dry laugh, “That’s not how it works, Capsicle.” he shrugged, “Most foster homes suck,” he sighed, resisting the urge to go and get a drink, “which leads us to the second reason: Y/n wants me to.” Tony cleared his throat, “Well, she wants us to adopt this chick named Malissa before we adopt her, but I don’t think this Jerry guy sounds good for any of them.”

“Why does she want you to adopt this Malissa?” Thor asked.

Tony sighed. They were clearly having a hard time with this.

“Cause Jerry keeps giving her unwanted attention. You know, feeling her up and stuff.” he spat, glaring at nothing in particular.

Now the Avengers were concerned.

Especially Bucky and Steve, “What?” his eyes went wide.

“From what I’ve heard, she’s trans, so he’s trying to teach her what being a girl is ‘actually like’.” Tony sighed, his hands wringing as he tried to keep calm. He could tell that almost everyone here wanted to go and have a small ‘chat’ with this Jerry guy.

“And you let Y/n go back?” Steve asked, almost sounding angry, which he probably was. Add worry to the irritation from sleep-depravation and work, and that’s Steve right now. Listening to emotions as opposed to listening to reason.

“I can’t just take kids from their foster homes, Steve! I’m rich enough to adopt them, but money doesn’t let me break every law,” Tony exclaimed, his voice a lot quieter than everyone had anticipated.

Clint spoke up again, sounding a lot calmer than everyone looked, “Can we meet up with them tomorrow by any chance? Kidnap them before school to talk with them?” the last part was only a partial joke.

“Well, I can text Y/n to see if we can meet, but I don’t know if I can guarantee meeting tomorrow without breaking any laws.” Tony sighed, taking his phone out and looking at your contact information. God, this was going to be a long night.

It took the two of you an hour and a half, but you and Katie had finally gotten that stupid worksheet done. And as it turns out, you would definitely have to talk to Ms. Lucey tomorrow. If this happened again, you might even send Micheal to go and talk to her. Out of any one of Katie’s ‘siblings’, he’d be able to scare her into doing her job correctly. (The only problem would be the possible violence.)

Speak of the devil, and he shall come, you thought, your smile fading as Micheal walked in, showing off his newly busted lip. You were surprised his snake bites were still in mint condition. Maybe he didn’t have them in before the fight? Not probable, but possible.

“Micheal,” you got up, forcing a cheery tone and a smile onto your face as you moved closer.

Micheal smiled back until you got closer and he saw the anger in your eyes.

“Micheal!” you exclaimed angrily, grabbing him by the front of his jacket before he could escape. “What the hell did you get yourself into this time?!” you asked, checking to make sure his lip would be able to heal. Without stitches this time. Last time he almost had to go to the hospital because the wound was starting to get infected and if that happened? Game over for everyone.

The punk just rolled his eyes, “Jerry’s an asshole and he thought a was talking back.” he explained, a hand massaging the back of his neck as he spoke, “He sounded drunk, but last time I checked, we were out of Alcohol,” he added, a smirk appearing on his lips because he’d been the one to finish it off. Alcohol was a small thing in the big picture, but like batteries, it was a very important factor. It generally meant the difference between a good night and Maverik getting a beatdown.

You sighed, letting go of his jacket and pushing him back a little.

Micheal, as always, was quick to retaliate, “You wanna go?” he asked angrily. So defensive...

You glared at him, your (E/c) eyes daring him to try something, “With my training and experience, you’d be down in a matter of seconds.” you reminded him matter-of-factly, “So don’t even start.” you snapped.

Micheal just rolled his eyes again, saying nothing as you looked to everyone else that had arrived since Tony had left. So far, the only person missing was Maverik, who should be getting home from work soon.

You sighed, turning around and walking over to the door, almost hesitating before locking it. If Jerry was drinking again, keeping the door locked wasn’t much of an option. Maverik could knock when he got home.

“Does that mean we aren’t having dinner?” a soft voice piped up.

You turned, meeting a pair of captivating blue eyes across the room. Chloe looked up at you, almost pouting.

“You’re hungry?” You asked, surprise filling your voice. Chloe always chose not to eat here, so everyone was always surprised when she decided to.

Chloe shook her head, her light blonde hair shifting over her shoulders as she did, “No, but I was going to eat something.” she sighed, “My stomach feels funny, so I figured I was hungry.” she added quietly.

Malissa looked to Scarllet for a moment before she went to check her temperature, bringing Chloe’s forehead to her cheek.

After a moment, she turned to everyone else with a grim look on her face.

“She’s got a temp.”