#people keep awkwardly standing around the parking lot

[bsdyaoi]

My boss once again was not here when we are supposed to be open and apparently he wasn't originally gonna be here but forgot I don't have keys or know how to open yet </3 he said he's coming but idk how long it's gonna take ive just been sitting in my car

[anniebeemine]

spoiled- s.r. x fem!reader

warnings: Spencer spoiling his kids def comes back to bite him in the ass

Spencer wanted nothing but the best for his children. Since finding out he had one on the way, he spent weeks hunched over online articles, debating the best car seats, the safest family cars, and the most comfortable strollers. He read everything—from parenting blogs to consumer reports—until his eyes burned and his back ached from sitting for so long. No detail was too small. The color of the car seat, the weight of the stroller—everything mattered because this was his child.

As Melanie grew, so did his tendency to spoil her. He carried a mini fan around for her in the summer to make sure she was cool enough. In the winter, he always had a stash of hand warmers to stuff in her pockets. He didn’t care if people thought it was excessive; he’d do anything to keep her comfortable and happy.

But now, standing in the middle of the mall with his daughter screaming at the top of her lungs, Spencer realized some of that spoiling had been a mistake.

It had started innocently enough. Melanie needed a few long-sleeve shirts for school, and with the temperatures dropping, Spencer thought it would be a nice afternoon outing. They’d stopped in the store she loved, all girly pink and frills, the kind of place that lit up her eyes. He’d let her pick out earrings, scarves, and other trinkets he wasn’t sure she’d need, but the way her face lit up made it worth it.

Then, she saw the tiara. It was glittering under the store lights, solid gold with delicate rhinestones, sitting in a glass case as if it were meant for a real princess. Melanie’s eyes had widened, and she reached out for it like it was the most important thing in the world.

"No, Mel. Not today," Spencer had said gently, kneeling down to her level. "It’s too expensive, and you don’t need another tiara."

But she wasn’t having it. Her lip trembled, and before Spencer could even blink, she dropped to the floor, her light-up sneakers kicking out as she let out a blood-curdling scream.

Every head in the store turned toward them, eyes wide. Spencer’s heart hammered in his chest as he tried to calm her down, but Melanie wasn’t listening. She was kicking, screaming, and pounding her fists against the floor.

“Melanie, stop it,” he said firmly, feeling the heat of embarrassment creep up his neck. Other parents passed by, some averting their eyes awkwardly while others gave him knowing, sympathetic looks.

Spencer picked her up, her little body thrashing in his arms as her cries echoed through the mall. He carried her to the parking lot, feeling every pair of eyes on him as he walked, his face flushed with embarrassment. When they reached the car, she fought him again, pushing his hands away when he tried to buckle her into the car seat. Her face was red, tear-streaked, and contorted with anger.

He sighed, stepping back and waiting. He couldn’t force her. He had to wait until she calmed down.

After what felt like an eternity, Melanie finally stopped thrashing, her sobs quieting down to soft hiccups. She allowed him to buckle her in, but as he drove home, she kicked at the back of the seat, whining and crying about how they hadn’t even gotten the pretzels they always got when they went to the mall.

By the time they got home, Spencer was exhausted. Melanie, far too old to be throwing tantrums like this, stomped into the house, her little fists balled up at her sides.

"Melanie," Spencer said, his voice stern, but not angry. He pulled her little pink chair from her tea set and placed it in the corner of the living room. "Sit here."

Her face dropped, and she looked at him with wide, apologetic eyes, as if she suddenly realized she had gone too far. Normally, he would’ve caved, let her go about her day with a warning or a talk. But not today. Today, he needed to set a boundary.

Melanie sat down slowly, her tiny toes barely touching the floor. She sniffled, her lip quivering, but she didn’t argue. Soft cries escaped her, and Spencer’s heart ached, but he stood firm.

You had heard it all from the other room. When you walked into the living room and saw Melanie sitting in the corner, her head bowed and her small shoulders shaking, you knew something had happened. But instead of going to her first, you went to find Spencer.

He was in your shared bedroom, sitting in the chair near the corner that was often inhabited by a pile of unfolded laundry. His head was in his hands, and his whole body looked tense, as if he were carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders.

You knelt in front of him, gently running your hands over his forearms until he looked at you.

“Shouldn’t you be talking to Melanie?” he asked, his voice quiet and tired.

You chuckled softly and smiled. “I came to talk to my husband, to find out what she did. And why he put himself in time-out.”

A small, exhausted laugh escaped Spencer, and he shook his head, sitting back in the chair. “She threw the biggest tantrum I’ve seen in years... over a tiara,” he said, rubbing his hands over his face. “I tried to reason with her, but she just... lost it. I had to put her in the corner." His voice lowered. "I’ve never had to do that before.”

You squeezed his hand. “You did the right thing.”

He looked at you, his eyes filled with guilt and frustration. “I don’t know... I feel like I’ve spoiled her so much that this is partly my fault. She’s never acted like that before.”

You leaned forward, resting your forehead against his. “Parenting isn’t easy, and she’s growing up. But setting boundaries is important. You’re doing great, Spencer.”

He sighed, his shoulders relaxing a little as he finally let go of some of the tension. “I just hate seeing her like that.”

“I know,” you whispered. “But she’ll be okay. And so will you.”

After a few minutes of quiet, Spencer stood up from the chair, his shoulders heavy with exhaustion but his mind clearer. He walked back into the living room, where Melanie still sat in the little pink chair, her face flushed and tear-streaked. Her legs swung idly as she sniffled, her fingers picking at the hem of her shirt. When she saw him coming, she straightened up slightly, her big eyes watching him closely.

He knelt down next to her, making sure they were at eye level. Spencer wasn’t one to raise his voice or discipline in anger, and he wanted her to know this was about more than just the tantrum. He needed to help her understand.

"Mel, do you know why I asked you to sit here?" he asked gently, his voice soft but steady.

She hesitated, her bottom lip wobbling. "Because... I was bad," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Spencer shook his head slowly, reaching out to take one of her tiny hands in his. "No, you weren’t bad. But the way you acted at the mall—screaming and kicking like that—it wasn’t okay. It’s not how we handle things when we don’t get what we want."

Melanie looked down at her shoes, her face flushed with embarrassment. "But I really wanted the tiara," she muttered, a little tremble in her voice.

"I know you did," Spencer said, squeezing her hand gently. "And it’s okay to want things. But sometimes, we can’t always have everything we want, especially if it’s something that’s too expensive or something we don’t need right now. I told you no, not because I didn’t want you to be happy, but because I thought it was the best decision. That doesn’t mean you throw a tantrum when you don’t get your way. We can talk about it, but you have to stay calm."

Melanie sniffled again, her fingers curling into the fabric of her skirt. “I’m sorry, Daddy.”

Spencer smiled softly and brushed a few strands of hair from her face. "I know you are. And I’m not mad at you, okay? I love you more than anything in this world. But I need you to understand that acting like that isn’t the right way to get what you want."

She nodded, her eyes watery as she looked up at him. "I understand," she whispered. "I won’t do it again."

Spencer nodded, feeling a bit of relief wash over him. "That’s all I ask," he said, pulling her into a gentle hug. She wrapped her small arms around his neck, clinging to him as if she was afraid he’d still be upset. He held her tightly, letting her know that everything was okay now.

When they finally pulled apart, Melanie glanced up at him with wide eyes. "Maybe... we can look at tiaras tomorrow?" she asked hesitantly, her voice small but hopeful.

Spencer chuckled softly, the tension in his chest finally easing. "Maybe," he said, smiling down at her. "We’ll see if we can find something more reasonable, okay?"

Melanie nodded eagerly, a tiny smile tugging at her lips. Then, with a seriousness far beyond her years, she patted his leg. "But you need some time to calm down first, Daddy," she said, her voice filled with that innocent wisdom only children possess.

Spencer couldn’t help but laugh, the sound light and full of affection. "I think you might be right," he said, standing up and holding out his hand to her. "How about we both calm down together, maybe with some ice cream?"

Melanie grinned, taking his hand as she jumped up from her chair. "I like that idea."

As they walked toward the kitchen, you appeared in the doorway, watching the two of them with a soft smile. You’d been listening from the hallway, and the tenderness in their exchange made your heart swell. Spencer caught your eye and gave you a small, knowing smile. The storm had passed, and you knew that, together, you’d figure out the rest.

[theuntoldstorythatneedsawriter]

Chaos in the Changing Room 👟🏟

Ingrid Engen x Reader

warning : fluffy 💭 💗

summary :

You go into the changing room to give Ingrid her shoes she forgot in your bag. You never expect the level of caos that was happening between these walls.

It had been a typical match day, and you were always there, supporting Ingrid from the stands. The energy at the stadium was electric, and the team was buzzing with excitement after their win. As you made your way out of the stadium, you realized something. Ingrid had left her shoes in your bag. With a sigh and a small smile, you decided to drop them off in the locker room before heading to the parking lot.

Making your way through the hallways of the stadium, you could hear faint laughter and chatter from the changing room as you approached. The door was slightly open, and you hesitated for a moment before knocking.

"Come in!" a voice yelled from inside.

You pushed open the door cautiously, shoes in hand, only to be greeted by utter chaos. Clothes were scattered everywhere, music was blasting from a speaker in the corner, and players were either dancing, shouting, or draping themselves across the benches in various states of post-match exhaustion.

"Uh… hi?" you called out, trying to spot Ingrid in the madness.

"Oh hey, you’re Ingrid’s girl, right?" A cheerful voice piped up from across the room. It was Mapi, grinning at you as she pointed. "She’s over there. Probably forgot something again, huh?"

You nodded, smiling awkwardly as you stepped further into the room. "Yeah, her shoes. She always leaves them behind."

Mapi laughed, and just as you were about to hand the shoes over to her, you felt a friendly arm wrap around your shoulder.

"Look who we have here!" someone announced loudly.

You turned to see Lucy Bronze, a wide smile on her face as she guided you further into the heart of the changing room. "You’ve made it to the chaos zone now, no turning back!"

"Lucy, leave her alone," Ingrid’s voice called out from across the room, sounding both amused and slightly exasperated. She was sitting on the bench, tying her hair back, clearly having just come out of the shower.

Your heart skipped a beat seeing her, even in the midst of this chaos. Her eyes caught yours, and she smiled softly as you approached.

"Hey, you forgot these," you said, holding out her shoes.

Ingrid groaned playfully. "I swear, I’d lose my head if it wasn’t attached."

As you handed them over, Ingrid leaned in to give you a quick kiss on the cheek, but before you could even respond, another voice chimed in.

"Wait, wait, wait! Is this the Ingrid’s mysterious partner we’ve heard so much about?" Alexia, the captain herself, stood up from the bench, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

You felt the heat rise to your cheeks as suddenly all eyes were on you. "I—uh…"

"Relax, we’re only teasing," Alexia said, laughing as she gave you a friendly pat on the back. "We’ve been dying to meet the person who keeps Engen grounded."

"Grounded?" Ingrid repeated with mock offense, standing up now. "Am I that bad?"

The rest of the team burst into laughter, and you couldn’t help but laugh along with them. Suddenly, you were enveloped in the friendly chaos of the squad. Being teased by Mapi, roped into a joke by Lucy, and even pulled into a celebratory dance circle by Keira.

For a moment, you forgot why you had even been nervous about coming into the locker room in the first place. This wasn’t just a team; this was a family, and they had welcomed you with open arms.

Eventually, Ingrid made her way back over to you, sliding an arm around your waist as the squad slowly started to wind down from their post-match high.

"Thanks for bringing these," she murmured, holding up the shoes with a sheepish grin.

"Anytime," you replied softly, leaning into her warmth.

As you looked around at the lively, spirited squad around you, you realized just how lucky you were. Not just to be with Ingrid, but to be embraced by the people she called her second family.

"Ready to head out?" Ingrid asked, brushing a strand of hair from your face.

"Yeah, let’s get out of this chaos before they rope us into something else," you joked, glancing over at Mapi, who was now challenging Lucy to some kind of ridiculous dance-off.

Hand in hand, you both made your way toward the door, leaving behind the whirlwind that was the changing room, your heart full from the laughter and love shared in that chaotic but wonderful space.

[sonotkari]

Overflowing

Danielle Marsh x Fem Reader

[ Synopsis ]

As best friends, you've been together since you remember, being there for each other's lives and special moments over these years but you slowly watch her slip away.

Angst | Platonic

[ Word Count ]

1.4k short again hihi :)) (not accurate since it got retouched)

[ a/n ]

(retouched a bit 24/09/18)

I wanted to explore writing so maybe this is kind of those experiment projects hehe >< small angst oneshot and I still haven't got the hang of writing so please keep that in mind! /ᐠ｡ꞈ｡ᐟ\

Someone, somewhere out there, dis for u bae <3

You remember it like yesterday. The month of April. A hot sunny day. You were walking in the hallways, about to make a turn around the corner when you noticed her walking from the other direction, two girls each on the side as they linked their arms on hers, probably touring the girl around the school grounds.

Those slow-motion scenes in movies were unbelievable where they portray it like "the world stopped" but not until you met her gaze the moment you were passing by at each other. Feeling your heart beating in excitement, knowing that you finally met the "transferred student" teachers were talking about a few days ago. As you were also a transfer 2 weeks ago, you were curious but couldn't put up the courage to go and see her because you were shy. Too shy. But apparently, she was the opposite.

Feeling your arms being held out of the blue and yelping a bit, you turned around to your shoulder full of confusion. She was there, holding onto your arm, smiling brightly like a warm ray of sunshine.

"What's your name?" 

The two girls that were with her also seemed startled and confused at her sudden actions, gawking at both of you awkwardly stopping in the middle of the hallway. Feeling the stares of people as they passed by, you also felt your face heating up but somehow managed to mumble a name loud enough for her to hear. 

And that's how you became the best of friends with Danielle.

Everything after your small interaction happened like the speed of light. Moments you've spent with her made the connection stronger day by day, feeling that the two of you had to be together at all times, making you inseparable. Days became weeks and weeks turned into months as memories were made every second you had her by your side. Whether it was those pretend play at the park or chasing each other running at the school grounds, you loved spending time with her, feeling incomplete when she was not there laughing at the smallest things with you.

There were times that you got frustrated a lot with not being able to go home with Danielle because of how much you would constantly get into a fight with her sibling (you were very easily annoyed when they would tease you) You would often get jealous seeing the girl with her other friends and they would link their arms with Danielle. The same goes for her when you would go home with anyone other than her and it would cause a small fight but would always forget about it at the end of the day as the two of you would sing to your "theme song" while walking home after school.

All day every day, your time would be spent with Danielle always. From mornings when rushing to her classroom to greet "good morning" to between classes, going to her ranting about that one teacher who's annoying you a lot, till the end of school where you'd always stand by the gates waiting for her and walking her home. You weren't the type to get in trouble and didn't like the idea of it at all but when you were with Danielle, a little scolding, a little frown from those old wrinkled faces of teachers, a little disappointment felt like nothing but a joke. Because she was always there, by your side with you. 

Months turned to years and despite never being in the same class for who knows how long, the both of you would always find a way to make time for each other. Whether it was at the local park near Danielle's house or the small amusement park you two would often ride bikes to go to. She was always on your right, and you were on her left. As some years passed by again, you were making new friends and so did Danielle. It was never really hard for the girl because she always had the charm and humor and of course the kindness inside that attracted people easily. Not like your 8-year-old self who would've had jealousy burning inside her heart, you were happy for the girl. You knew how shy she was, making it a bit challenging to get to know people besides you and a few others. To this day you still don't understand how she had enough courage to pull your arm but regardless, you were very thankful for it. 

Things changed slowly when Danielle stopped going home with you and going with her new friends instead. It felt almost like nothing because you also had a group of friends to be with. But then it went to the point where she stopped asking to hang out. Always the one who had to ask and plan everything just so the both of you could spend time together again, you couldn't help but feel unease a tiny bit. Eventually, that also stopped somewhere and now you can barely even remember the last time you two hung out with each other. You were understnding. The girl had new friends she wanted to spend time with, and the same goes for you as well. From time to time, you'd pass by the hallways and talk to each other or make calls and texts, giving updates about the things happening around recently. 

But then everything changed upside down on the last day of the annual school trip. It's been 9 years since Danielle and you had encountered in that hallway back in grade school. Now in your second year of high school. After all these years of praying that you'd be in the same class as her, it finally came true. You were grouped with her other 3 friends from last year and it was a bit worrying since the four of them felt like a group and you were the odd one out. But you quickly brushed that thought off knowing that Dainelle was there and she'd be on your side after all. 

Oh you were wrong. 

You don't know how to word it out. 

Pain, Hurting, Betrayal, Disappointment 

Every word didn't seem right. 

Every word didn't seem enough.

While walking down the bustling road of the destination your group decided to go to, pairs were made, each walking alongside the other, and you?  There, in the very back alone walking like a shadow. Feeling like your existence was nothing else but complete air. 

Everything finally snapped inside you, feeling your heart drop the moment it became crowded and you got pushed off by tourists and several people, creating a bigger distance between the group. But never did once the girls nor Danielle looked back. You did your best to catch up but, all you saw was her bright smile, laughing at her new friends beside her as the 4 of them continued to walk off unknowingly leaving you behind.

How could you leave me here? 

What's on your mind? 

Why didn't you notice? 

Why won't you look at me? 

You know how I hated crowded places. 

You know how I get lost easily.

You know how I hated being alone. 

You know because you've been with me for 9 years now. 

You should know.

You should've known. 

Days turned to weeks, weeks turning into months after the school trip. You couldn't look at her the same, talk with her the same, heck you couldn't even smile her way anymore. Her smile shining brightly like the sun now, felt like a mocking gaze to you. Forcing yourself to look fine but deep down you feel like messing up the whole place in front of you, just letting all the emotions run over you. Every feature you liked about her now, felt like you wanted to scribble a black marker on top erasing everything instead. It was never a good feeling, looking at the back of the person you once loved dearly now, only hatred filling up your chest not even being able to look properly at them.

It's been 4 months since the both of you haven't talked. 4 months since you haven't looked her way. 4 months since and nothing, not even an inch of movement was made. You've now questioned yourself a lot more than you could remember, crying your heart out until there was nothing left to come out of your eyes. And now, finally, you've decided to let go. Let go of everything you both had between you. Easier said than done, you struggled a lot. Smiling as you have conversations with your other friends but constantly feeling the fear of thinking who's gonna be the next friend, the next person to leave you. Overthinking much more than you would and constantly breaking out alone in your room with no one to talk to since she was the one who'd get you the most. 

Things change, and we can do nothing about it. 

Just letting go, feeling lighter, and becoming filled.

Overflowing. 

dani's too sweet of a woman for this

[b3ach-bunn7]

LATE NIGHTS AND STAR-CROSSED MARGINS PT 2

Jason Todd, the most beautiful boy in your lecture, takes you out on a (maybe) coffee date.

college!au, fluff, pining, happy ending

——————————————————————

You and Jason Todd are walking down the corridors, hands just brushing past each other as your arms swing besides you.

You and Jason Todd are walking down the corridors. Jason Todd who had asked you to go get coffee, so you could study together, alone. Which you hoped was just a euphemism for ‘get to know and possibly date’, but you weren’t going to complain.

It feels childish. You’re acting like a ten-year-old with a crush, giddy with excitement while he stands oblivious next to you. Should you ask him where he’s taking you? That question feels too datey, too boyfriend-girlfriendy. Instead, you land on just keeping quiet. The silence lingers for a few seconds before he perks up.

“So. You like coffee?” His question is so obviously trying to break the ice, but you appreciate it nonetheless.

“Of course, I can’t live without it. And i haven’t had my fix today, so it’s a good thing we’re going.”

Jason laughs. “Right. I’m guessing this has something to do with you running so late?”

“Yeah. My friends and I stayed up late last night and ended up sleeping so late. I thought i’d set an alarm, but. I guess I didn’t.”

“Levine didn’t care, trust me. You’re one of his favourite students.”

You shake your head in denial, but Jason doubles down.

“No, seriously, you are. You’re smarter than half the people in there.”

“Says you. You hide all those smarts behind those good looks.”

Shit. You can almost feel the smirk on his face.

“You think I’m good looking?”

“Shut up.”

Jason laughs. He holds open the door for you, and you walk out of the building. It’s early, only one o’clock, and there's still a considerable amount of people milling about. It’s warm enough outside that there’s some studying in small groups on the grass, books and pens spread out in front of them. At least, you think they’re supposed to be studying. But with the sun shining as brightly as it was, you figure not a lot of work is getting done.

Jason walks you to the car park, and stops. You look around for a car, but there isn’t one. Instead, he stops in front of a motorcycle.

“And we’re here. This, this right here is my pride and joy.” He rubs the leather seat, a shit-eating grin on his face.

“Jason. I’m not getting on that.”

He looks slightly offended. “What? Why not?”

Your mouth gapes. “What do you mean why? Do you know how risky it is to ride a motorcycle? Like- My dads a doctor, you know. I’ve heard stories. About accidents.”

Jason tilts his head. He walks towards you, standing just a few inches in front of you. You have to look up to meet his eyes, he’s so tall. He smells like expensive cologne and something boyish, and you’re sure he’s close enough to feel the heat coming off your face.

“I’ll look after you, sweetheart. Promise.” He murmurs, voice rumbling deep in his chest.

You laugh shakily. Tuck a lock of hair behind your ear, if only for something to do.

“And besides,” He reaches behind him and grabs a helmet, “You can wear this. Keep that pretty head of yours safe.”

You scoff and move away before he can see how flustered you look. You bite your lip, anxiously looking at the bike.

“You’re sure this is safe?”

“Positive.”

You think for a moment. The things you do for good-looking men.

“Okay. Okay, fine, hurry up. We need to go before I think for a second and change my mind.”

He cheers and hands you the helmet. He gets on first, legs stretching over the bike, thighs resting against the seat. You curse under your breath, thankful the helmet is covering your face. You get on behind him. You’re suddenly acutely aware of how close you are. Your hands hover awkwardly.

“Uh, what do I hold onto?”

“My waist.”

Right. Of course it was his waist.

You reach over, arms meeting in front of his middle. You clasp your hands together and stay completely on top of where they rest, because you’re sure you’ve embarrassed yourself enough without touching his crotch.

“You ready?”

“No.”

The words barely leave your mouth before the engine revs, the bike rumbling beneath you. You screech, hands clenching his waist. You think you hear him laugh, but you can't ponder too much about that, or the feel of what you think might be a six-pack beneath his shirt, because he’s moving, and you think you’re about to fall off.

It’s loud, and the wind is making your clothes billow behind you, but it feels freeing, in an odd sort of way. The fear bleeds into adrenaline that fills your veins, and your screaming turns into cheers.

The ride ends all too quickly, and Jason parks at a café well-known enough around your campus. You hop off the bike, and he follows. You take off the helmet, laughing.

“That was amazing! Terrifying, but also amazing.”

Jason nods, taking the helmet out of your hands. His hair is dishevelled from the wind, cheeks flushed red. You don’t think he’s ever looked prettier.

“I told you it would be fun.”

The two of you walk inside. He leads you to a table near the back, ushers you into the booth. You bring out your books, and he brings out his. You set up your things and he stands, tapping his fingers against the chair.

“What do you want to drink?” He asks.

“Hmm. A latte. With an extra shot of espresso.”

“Bold order.”

He disappears, and you finally have time to freak out. You pull out your phone, frantically texting your friends. They explode on the group chat, and you giggle, the flurry of emojis and capital letters easing your nerves. Half of them think it's a date, the other half think it’s all friendly. You can’t decide who you agree with because Jason comes back with your drinks. You quickly turn your phone off and thank him for the drink. He nods at your phone.

“You look smiley. Who are you texting? A boyfriend?” He doesn’t make eye contact as he asks, eyes turned down to his glass.

“No, my friends. They’re just wondering where I am. No boyfriend.”

“Good.”

You raise an eyebrow and he shakes his head.

“Not like that. Just. Good your friends care, you know?”

It’s cute. He’s cute, you think, as the two of you study. He takes pictures of some of your annotations. You peek at his home screen, and see a picture of him and three other boys, all of them grinning apart from him, who's staring grumpily at the camera. You joke about Professor Levine’s long lectures, complain about the essay that you both haven’t started. It’s nice, to talk to someone who’s actually doing the subject you are. And someone’s who's so good at it. If his looks weren’t enough, Jason’s intellect might have to be the sexiest thing about him. He listens to your rambles and answers back with ones just as long. Definitely the best part about him.

After about an hour of that, you spend more time getting to know one another. You learn he has one older brother and two younger ones. He doesn’t linger on his family life too much, and you decide not to pry. He likes to workout (so it was a six-pack you’d felt earlier) and his favourite poet is Emily Dickinson. Which might’ve been enough for you to propose on the spot.

You finish off the last dregs of your latte and he downs his too. He ended up buying some snacks, and you learn that Jason Todd loves blueberry muffins. You glance at the time, and gape.

“Oh god, i gotta get home. I’ve got so much stuff to do tonight.”

“Oh. Yeah, I’ll drop you.” There's a lilt of disappointment in his voice, and you try not to like it.

The ride back is just as fun as before, and this time you definitely don’t hold him tight enough to feel the line of his muscles beneath his shirt. He parks in the same place as before, and walks you to the door of your dorm.

“Well. This is me.” You sigh.

“Yep.”

The two of you pause for a second. You say your goodbyes, and go to enter. But you pause, just before your key slips in the lock.

The question you’re about to ask can go one of two ways, but you think you have to ask it. Your friends will kill you if you don’t, and you think you might too. You turn back to face Jason, who still hasn’t left.

“Jason, I have to ask. Was this, like. A friendly café revision session? Or was it. You know, something more.”

He tilts his head again. A curl falls across his eyes. His eyelashes are impossibly long, and they frame the bright brown eyes that always stare right into you.

“I’d like it to be a date. If you don’t mind.”

You sigh in relief. “Thank god. Of course, I don’t mind.”

You shut your mouth, reigning in the rest of your ramble of how desperate you were to go out with him.

“Cool. I was going to ask you straight up, but I thought it might be a bit too forward.”

You huff a laugh. “It’s okay. I like forward.”

“Noted.” He pauses for a second. “Give me your phone.”

“Yes, sir.”

He falters a little at that, before straightening up and grabbing your phone. You will definitely be looking into that later. He opens your contacts and types in his number. He sends himself a text, and his phone buzzes.

“Alright. I’ll text you, and maybe we could go out again?”

“I’d like that.”

“I’ll see you around, sweetheart.”

Sweetheart. Damn you, Jason Todd.

You reach up and place a kiss on his cheek. It takes every ounce of your control not to kiss him properly, but you better save something for your other dates.

That night, you fall asleep with the taste of latte on your lips and the smell of Jason’s cologne in your head.

——————————————————————

AUTHORS NOTE

part two 🙈 might make this into a series of oneshots, we’ll see! Hope you enjoy!

[prettypinkporkchop]

-3 years ago-

Jake groans while standing up from fixing the new engine in his old red truck. "So, who is Bella?" You ask, picking up a tool and examining it. He smiles at you, grabbing it from your hand. "Just a childhood friend. She hasn't been here or really with Charlie in a long time." He sighs. "Is this someone I should be concerned about?" You raise an eyebrow. He shakes his head and then kisses your forehead. "Nope." He walks away.

---NOW---

Oh, but you should have been worried. He was up her ass. You went from a teen and in love to an adult and watching everything fall apart. All of his friends have separated. Jake and Quil are the last of them. The others joined Sam's gang. That's the last you've seen or heard from them. You moved away for a job that did not feel right.

You park your car in the driveway to your old house. Your eyelids are heavy, considering you've been driving for nearly seven hours. You barely slept the night before because of anxiety. The front door opens, and it's your old guardian.(can be anyone for you).

After settling back into your old bedroom, you climb in the bed and attempt to rest some more. "Y/n! You have a visitor!" You groan and push yourself up.

You walk towards the open front door.

Of course. It's Jacob Black. Short hair and a tattoo. You're not so surprised. You're not even mad about the teenage love drama anymore. You just hope the dude isn't in any drugs or gang related shit because of Sam.

You look up at him and lean on the door frame. "Long time, no see, Black." You smile. He just stands there, staring. It seems like he's in shock. His eyes are wide open, and his eyebrows are raised. "I know. I'm still super hot." You joke. Saying this brings him back, shaking his head and then smiling. "Hey y/n. Small town noise, ya know. I heard you were back, and I just wanted to say 'hi'." He tucks his hands in his pockets. "Thank you? I mean, not that I mind you being here, but why is it important to say hi to me?" You giggle awkwardly. "Also, I'm not mad. We were kids. But, how's your lady, Bella?" He sucks in a breath. "Uh, yeah, about that. She's with the weirdo Edward Cullen. They're married now." He chuckles.

"Oh, I'm sorry." You awkwardly say. Deep down, you're singing JoJo Siwas Karma. But, at the same time, you're over all of it. But truthfully, you don't care. "It's not a problem. I've learned some lessons."

"Yeah, which made you join Sam's gang?" You raise your eyebrow with a smirk. "It's not a gang. It's a lot more than that. No drugs like we thought. We are just helping people and each other."

You don't respond. "Well, how about we catch up? I'm sure my people would love to see you again." He smiles. "Eh, I mean, it'd be nice to see your dad. I just don't want to bring back memories I've worked so hard to let go of." He frowns, and you can see the guilt wash over him. "I have some things to say. I really think it'll be worth your time. Everything will make sense."

You think and then nod, "Okay. When do you want to go?"

He perks up with a grin. "Now, I mean, whenever you are ready!" He pipes up.

"Look who's back. Couldn't stay away from Jake, could you?" Embry nudges you. You roll your eyes. "You haven't changed a bit." You laugh. "Hey! That's the joys of being an imprint. The universe always brings you back."

"Embry." Jacob glares at him. "Imprint? What?" You look at them. Embry raises his eyebrows. "Oh. My bad, cuh." He runs away. "Damn it."

A couple weeks later:

"DAMN IT!" You scream and drop the knife in the sink. A stinging pain runs through your whole hand even though the cut is just your middle finger. Blood drips into the sink. You try to keep it away from the food you are cooking. "What? What is it?" Jacob runs to you. He grabs your arm and looks over your hand. "Oh, baby." He wraps a paper towel around your finger. He kisses the top of your head. "Are you going to be okay?" He anxiously looks over your face. You nod through the pain. It's not deep enough for medical attention.

"Come on." He brings you over to the first aid cabinet. He wraps your finger and kisses your forehead. "I'll finish cooking." He presses a quick kiss to your lips. You lean up and press a lingering kiss on his lips. One that he melts into. He presses your back against the counter and has his hands on your waist.

His phone starts buzzing on the table. "UGH. What the hell." He goes to see who it is. "Bella." He groans and declines the call. "She's been blowing up my phone. Something about Edward getting her pregnant. I don't know. I don't care. It's not my problem." He laughs. You smile at him and walk up to him. You grab onto his shirt and pull him down, attacking his lips.

He groans and bites your bottom lip. "You trying to tell me something?" He breathes out before kissing your neck.

"Mhm."

[cutiewutiepatootie]

hello i saw that you have request open and was wondering if you could write about Jill having a massive lesbian crush on reader and how they get together please ?

yes hehehehehehehe

I couldn’t really write it from Jill’s point of view like it seemed you wanted me too so hopefully second person view is good enough 👍

I’ve been waiting to finally get a request if you can’t tell lmfao so this was made with in like a day of the request

Tags: very fluffy, love confessions, college setting, lesbian Jill & reader, not proofread

 Jill wasn’t a stranger to you, she started at you everyday during your classes. Although, she wasn’t slick at all to the point where you were contemplating whether she was trying to get you to notice her starring or not. The first time the two of you talked was when your teacher paired the two of you up for a partner project. You worked nicely together, so much so that you developed a crush on her, but after the project you really didn’t talk to her that much. Little did you know, Jill developed an even bigger crush on you way before the project.

Today was going to be the same as every other school day, or was it. You woke up and did your morning routine, as usual, got to your first few classes on time, and the day was going well. You went to your next class, one of the classes you had with Jill, pretty early and when you walked to your seat saw a note taped down to the desk. You thought that maybe it was from Jill, only problem was, Jill wasn’t here yet. As a matter of fact there were only about 7 people in the classroom, most of them being guys. As more people started flooding in you snatched the note up and shoved it into your pocket. You could barely focus in that class, luckily the professor wasn’t teaching anything too important, but you needed to find out what the note said. 

Right when you got back into your dorm you picked the note out of your pocket and started unfolding it, hoping it would still be legible.

“Please meet me at the park right outside campus at 3:35pm, I have something important to tell you. - somebody from Mr __ class” The note read.

“God damnit.” you whispered. One of the most important parts of the note, a hint to who this person might be, is eligible.

You decided that you would sneak around the area, you really wanted to see who it was even if it was a guy. It was already 3:30pm so you change your clothes and put on your shoes and swiftly go to the park.

It was a public park, so it would be a little easier said than done to just sneak around. To your luck, the park was pretty busy, so you could hopefully blend in with them. You hoped that you changing your clothes would keep you a little more hidden, and it did, because you saw a similar someone and they didn’t even notice you standing in plain sight. Jill. You saw Jill.

“It was Jill?!” You accidentally uttered. As you were just standing there, dumbfounded, Jill makes eye contact with you. You quickly come back to reality as Jill starts walking over to you with a cute little smile on her.

“Hey, I-uh didn’t expect you to actually show up.” Jill says awkwardly. So she was the one who wrote the note! 

“Well, you know, it was a last minute thing.” You felt bad for saying that, but you felt like you couldn’t stop yourself from talking. “The professor name on the note was eligible when I read it so naturally I got pretty curious.”

“Oh, I see, sorry, my pen must’ve smudged” Jill said nervously. You did regret saying that, but because it was Jill you did want to know what she had to say.

“So, what did you want to tell me.” You ask happily. Jill’s checks start to get red as she tells you something that you can barely comprehend.

“I like you, a lot, like way before that project we were ever paired up to do. You’re just so cool and pretty and for the longest time I was scared you didn’t like me back, but I decided I would just have to get my little confession over with.” Jill confessed, averting her gaze to anything but your eyes.

“I do like you back, Jill, how could I not.” You say as you put a hand on Jill’s check so you two are looking eachother in the eye.

You two stand there for a minute, in complete silence, you really did like her, you are just confused, but mostly relieved, that she liked you back. 

“Want to go to my dorm? This place is already busy so I really don’t want anyone from class to notice us.” You propose, kissing Jill on the cheek. 

“Sure, as long as your roommate doesn’t mind.” Jill says awkwardly, still flustered about the kiss.

“She doesn’t mind company if she’s away from the campus as long as they don’t mess with her things, and she just so happens to be away right now.” You assured Jill. “You promise not to mess with her stuff?”

“I promise.” Jill replied. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome” 

[bordysbae]

25 & 36 with barzy please?🥹

“only crazy for you”

mathew barzal x reader

25. “i got in a fight because of you”

26. “i thought you cheated, i’m sorry”

word count: 0.6k

you and your boyfriend mat like to workout at the gym together whenever possible. usually mat is helping you workout since he gets plenty of work on his body every week, so this usually tells the other girls and guys to back off since he doesn’t really leave your side. today was different though. you wanted to lift, and mat wanted to run so you guys decided to go separate ways for today, obviously keeping an eye on each other.

“excuse me? are you done using those weights?” you ask the man setting up his bar. “oh yeah here, do you want help?” “oh sure thank you!” you smile, as he begins to lift the weights onto your bar. “are you lifting alone?” he asks. “oh uh yeah, but don’t worry it’s okay” “i’m not trying to sound like an ass, but i’d feel really bad if something happened, not that i think anything would happen but still, can i spot you?” “oh no don’t worry i think i’m okay” “no please i insist, you’re lifting a lot” “uh fine, thank you” you smile awkwardly as you lay down on the bench. you begin lifting, and the man keeps trying to help you lift the bar even though you don’t need it. “i got it, thanks though” “sorry, just instinct” he chuckles, making you laugh awkwardly.

mat see’s you with the other guy and gets really angry. instead of doing anything about it, he starts talking to another girl, offering to help her. of course she says yes, giving him major goo-goo eyes. when you finish your set, you sit up and see mat with the pretty blonde girl. you instantly get insecure, and the man helping you sees that. “everything okay?” he asks you, sitting on the bench next to you. “yeah i’m fine, you can go back to lifting thanks for the help.” you say, visibly uncomfortable. he scoots closer to you, and your heart beings to race. “what’s wrong? no pretty girl should be upset” “please stop, i have a boyfriend” “that guy? doesn’t really look like he’s you boyfriend when he’s all over that girl” he shrugs. you scoff and stand up as an attempt to get him to leave you alone, but he doesn’t. he stands up too and faces towards you. “cmon, i can treat you better than him” “please stop” you plead stepping back, but he only steps closer. “she said stop, asshole.” a familiar voice says from besides you. you look up and you’re met with a very pissed off mat.

“oh you’re one to talk, all over some other chick while your girl was over here upset. you’re one hell of a boyfriend” the other boy chuckles. “oh fuck you! don’t tell me how to act in my own relationship!” mat says, before punching the other guy. audible gasps are heard from around the gym, and quickly the other guy starts throwing punches back. you yelp out of shock, and before you know it employees and other people in the gym are breaking up the fight.

obviously mat and the other guy get kicked out of the gym, and now you’re doing the walk of shame out of the gym with a livid mat at your side. you guys get into the car and you sigh. “mat what the fuck was all that?” you laugh, still in shock. “i thought you were into that douche, so i started helping that other girl, which i regret. it was obvious that guy wasn’t leaving you alone, but i acted on emotion instead of logic. i should’ve been there to help you, and i’m really sorry y/n” “it’s okay but maybe you should work on controlling emotions and not punching someone? this is real life, not a game of hockey” you chuckle, mat doing so as well as he pulls out of the parking lot. “i guess i can try, but no body touches my girl, then it’s game over.” “oh mat, i love you. even if you can be a little crazy” “only crazy for you”

[satansapostle6]

Angel With A Broken Wing | Jonah Simms

And if I may just take your breath away / I don't mind if there's not much to say / Sometimes the silence guides a mind / To move to a place so far away / The goosebumps start to raise / The minute that my left hand meets your waist / And then I watch your face / Put my finger on your tongue 'cause you love to taste, yeah / These hearts adore, everyone the other beats hardest for / Inside this place is warm / Outside it starts to pour

Warnings: Mature language and themes. Sexual content.

Chapter Two

Chapter Three: Fat Lip

“Marcus!” I scolded.

He looked at me like a confused puppy. “What?!”

I groaned irritably. “You can’t just hit people like that, Marcus!” I exclaimed, as Ryan stood by his car, angrily plugging his bleeding nose with tissues.

Somehow, no one was really fazed by this entire spectacle, whether it be our coworkers, or complete strangers. Naturally, weirder things have happened in Cloud 9 parking lots, even today, so no one even thought this situation warranted even a call to the cops. The only people I knew even still hanging around were Jonah, and Garrett, who was only really there because Jonah was there.

“Babe, I did it for you!” Marcus exclaimed, trying to get me on board with his violent outburst as he wiped at the blood on his lip.

I groaned frustratedly, unsure of how to get it through his thick skull that what he did was actually wrong, like a mother gentle-parenting a toddler.

“You didn’t need to do anything for me, Marcus, because everything was fine to begin with!” I shout at him impatiently, “And stop calling me ‘babe’! Especially at work! I’m not your girlfriend! You know that!”

Jonah slowly turns to look at Garrett for input. “So… Sophie and Marcus… What’s, uh… What’s the story with that…?”

Garrett makes a face. “That’s what you’re wondering about right now?!”

Jonah scoffs dismissively. “No! I was just…” he fails to even come up with something. “So, are they, like, a thing, or are they just hooking up…?”

Garrett rolls his eyes as he moves away from the crowd. Jonah starts to panic as he sees Garrett leaving, not wanting to be left behind. He quickly follows Garrett, walking behind him over to my car, and opening the door. Jonah then panics even more, not sure if he’s overstepping a boundary, or three.

He decides to interrupt Garrett. “Should we be…?”

Garrett ignored him as he tends to my daughter. “Me and Sophie are friends. I’ve taken care of her kid before. If you’re overstepping, then by all means, leave.”

Garrett sighs as he sees Gigi, sitting in her car seat as she smiles at him. Jonah just stands by awkwardly, not sure what to do, and not sure what to do with his hands as he shoves them in his pockets.

“Hi, Uncle Garrett,” Gigi says, surprising Jonah.

“‘Uncle Garrett’…?”

“Hey, sweetie,” Garrett says somewhat uncomfortably, trying to do a friend a favor, “How are you doing?”

“Okay,” Gigi tells him quietly.

“Hi, sweetie!” Jonah says out of nowhere, not wanting to be rude.

Garrett shoots him a look, as Jonah just frowns, realizing that maybe he shouldn’t just introduce himself to a coworker’s unattended child.

Garrett nods. “Okay. That’s good. Well, uh… I’ll tell you what. Mommy and Daddy are… a little busy right now, so how about I keep you company? That sound good?”

Gigi nods with a smile at this offer. Jonah smiles softly, surprised to see how good his friend actually was with children, despite his usual nonchalant, ‘cool guy’ demeanor.

“Cool,” Garrett accepts, trying to distract the poor child, “How’s school going? Still crushing those science projects?”

He smiled as Gigi nods.

“Yeah?” Garrett says kindly.

Jonah stands around silently, listening in as Garrett distracts the small child, making sure she doesn’t realize that anything’s wrong. Although the police weren’t called, it still seemed that I was gonna be stuck in the parking lot with Marcus and Ryan for a while.

“Fuck you, man!” Marcus yells, as I try to diffuse the situation as much as possible. “You don’t talk to Sophie like that! She is a queen among women!”

I groan in discomfort as I try to figure out a way to defend Ryan without actually having to defend him.

“Who the fuck even are you, dude?!” Ryan yells at him.

“Guys!” I yell over the both of them. “Shut the fuck up!”

Ryan immediately goes on the offensive, automatically blowing up at Marcus. “No, fuck this dude! He came in here, acting like your fucking knight in shining armor, punching me like a fucking animal!”

Marcus had almost a knee jerk reaction. “I’m the fucking animal?! Fuck you, man! Talking shit to a nice girl like Sophie!”

Ryan scoffs. “‘A nice girl’?! Have you met Sophie?!”

“Yeah, I’ve met Sophie!” Marcus yells stupidly. “I’ve met her all over the place!” he brags.

I groan, “Oh, dear God…”

It took another thirty minutes or so, but I finally managed to get Ryan to back off, and not try to murder Marcus. Eventually, Ryan drove off, and I just lost my patience and stormed off, leaving Marcus confused as he tries to plead for my attention.

“Sophie!” he calls to me, as passersby give him weird glances, “Sophie! Baby! Come back!”

��Ugh!” I huff as I run to Gigi in my car.

Marcus’s face falls sadly. “Baby! I was willing to get another strike for you!”

I felt absolutely horrible about everything as I realized Gigi had been waiting for me this entire time. I felt like an absolute failure of a mother, realizing I’d been neglecting my child to deal with a fight between my baby daddy and the guy I’m currently sleeping with, in the middle of a Cloud 9 parking lot. But thankfully, I walked to my car to find Gigi safe and happy, with Garrett. And for some reason, Jonah. Garrett looks up at me as he sits with Gigi, talking with her as he and Jonah see me coming.

“Oh, hey,” Garrett smiles as he sees me, turning to Gigi, “Look at that. Mom’s back.”

I sigh as I take my daughter’s hands, looking back at Jonah in confusion. “I’m so sorry, Gige, I didn’t mean to be so long… Did you have fun with Uncle Garrett?”

She nods contentedly, not seeming bothered by any of this at all.

“Okay, that’s good,” I nod, relieved.

“What happened?” she asked me curiously.

“Uh…”

I awkwardly turn, seeing Garrett and Jonah standing behind me uncomfortably, unsure of what to do, or where they’re supposed to be.

“I’m so sorry, baby, I just had to talk to Daddy…”

Gigi looks at me curiously. “Did he win the fight?”

My face goes completely blank as I look back at Garrett and Jonah, who are now both staring directly at the floor as if I’m Medusa. I groan uncomfortably as I look at my daughter, feeling like the world’s worst mother behind Ted Bundy’s mother.

“Uh…” I try to salvage this any way I can.

*****

Later that evening, after a particularly difficult and frankly heartbreaking discussion with my daughter, I decided to make Gigi’s favorite mac and cheese for her as a sort of apology for having to explain to her that she can’t tell anyone at school about her Uncle Marcus beating up her father. I set a little bowl of macaroni with chicken and carrots in front of her as she sits across from me at the counter.

“So, what’d you and Uncle Garrett talk about?” I asked her pleasantly.

“School. Comic books,” Gigi says as she picks at her vegetables, “Me and Uncle Garrett like Spiderman.”

I smile. “Well, that’s good.”

“Uncle Garrett’s funny,” she tells me.

“That he is,” I agree with a smile, still to this day finding it amusing how good with kids Garrett actually is.

“Jonah’s nice,” Gigi notes, which makes my blood run cold.

I stop dead in my tracks as I eat my dinner, not knowing how to react to that.

I try to hide my frown. “What?” I ask her.

“Jonah’s nice,” she repeats, obviously not picking up on or understanding my response.

“Jonah…” I realized, “You talked to Jonah?”

She just shrugs, not really making anything of the situation as a child.

“Yeah. He says he works with you,” she recalled. “He does a funny Kermit voice.”

I stare in confusion, not really sure what to make of that.

“Jonah likes you,” Gigi states rather calmly, startling me as if she’d screamed.

I slowly processed what she’d said to me, trying to get to the bottom of the random revelation.

“What do you…” I blurted out awkwardly, “What makes you say that?” I asked her, definitely needing context.

“I don’t know. He says you’re really smart,” she explained.

I just sighed with relief, realizing that she, being a child, meant that he just quite literally liked me, as a person. I just shook my head at myself, embarrassed by my own stupidity. It’s a different type of embarrassment when it hits even if you’re alone.

*****

The next day was a Thursday, and I was working on the register as usual, silently sighing my way through the entire morning.

“Have a good one,” I smiled, watching as a man appreciatively walked away with a bottle of lotion, a mason jar, and an anime figurine of a suspiciously young-looking female character.

I stared at him uncomfortably as I decided to take out a pad and paper, writing down the name on his debit card just in case.

“There has to be some sort of list for that…”

“Hey…”

I look up suddenly, as Jonah nervously approaches the register. Why he always approaches people like he’s trying to learn an Irish jig, I have no idea.

“Hey,” I offer a polite smile.

“So… Yesterday….”

I sigh with a sense of dread. “What about it, Jonah?”

He tries to smile. “I-Sorry, I know it’s not any of my business…”

I look up at him exasperatedly. “”No. It’s not. So leave me alone, please? Everyone keeps asking me if me and Marcus are dating, and if Marcus and Ryan hate each other, and a weird amount of people have asked me if Marcus is Gigi’s real father—”

Jonah nods, fully aware of the intellectual capacity of some of our fellow Cloud 9 employees.

“Right,” he remarks, “Well… I just…”

I stare at him expectantly.

He sighs, looking guilty and exhausted. “I just… Wanted to ask you if you’re okay,” he told me.

My expression suddenly softened, as I realized. “Oh. No one’s asked me that yet.”

He smiled sheepishly.

“I, uh…” I nod, trying to compose myself. “Yeah. I’m okay.”

He nods, the look in his eyes deeply sympathetic. “How’s Gigi? Is she okay?”

“Yeah. Yeah, she’s a strong kid,” I assure him.

He seems to take comfort in this. “That’s good. Kids are… really resilient,” he offers.

I expect more, maybe some silly, clueless speech about what he read about the psychological development of children, but… no. Nothing. It was kind of a relief, that all he had to say was a question about whether or not I’m doing okay.

I smiled, still oddly relieved. “Thank you. For asking.”

Jonah nods, seeming glad to have actually said something right. He smiles pleasantly as he walks off, getting back to work. I stood there for a moment, thinking to myself I still had a whole day of work left ahead of me.

“Excuse me?” a nice red-haired lady asks, as she approaches me with her items, setting them down on the conveyor belt.

I look up as I start scanning. “Hi,” I smile.

“Hi,” she says kindly, “So… There’s, like, a little pile by the fitting rooms…?”

I look at her curiously as I scan. “A—A ‘pile’?” I question.

“Yeah, um…” she tried to phrase things as delicately as possible. “Judging by the, uh… odor, I’d say it’s a… fairly big pile of poop?”

I just frown, looking down at the register as I nod. “Right… Thanks.”

“I’m sorry,” the lady says awkwardly, “I know it’s disgusting…”

I just shake my head. “No, it’s… Not the first one today.”

She looks at me, alarmed. “It’s… eleven.”

I glance down at my workstation. “Yeah. I know.”

-

Chapter Four

[tropes-and-tales]

Rematch

December 9:  Coat/Bundle - Blind Date (Frankie Morales x F!reader)

(From the winter prompts found here)

CW:  Slight angst; slight fluff.  Squint to find the “coat” and “bundle.”

Word Count:  1806

AN:  A sequel to this!

AN2:  Requested by anon!

Frankie tries to move on.  He goes to work, he goes home.  He takes his daughter on the weekends and tries to create memories with her even if she is so young.  He takes her to parks, plays with her, snuggles on the couch when she’s drowsy.

Those are just the weekends.  His weekdays are lonely and bleak, but he drives forward.  He keeps working at his recovery.  He doesn’t let the darkness push against him too much.

It’s a month later when Tom and Pope try to make plans with him.  There’s a new brewery in town, and they cajole Frankie for a guys’ night out.  It takes a lot of convincing; Frankie’s not feeling especially social, but he finally agrees to it.

He realizes way too late that he’s been set up.  He should have known better.  Tom was just a shade too eager to go out, and Pope was just a shade too curious about Frankie’s arrival time.  

When Frankie arrives at the brewery, he doesn’t see the guys.  He stands awkwardly near the entrance and cranes his neck to see if he can find them…but he finds you instead.  You’re sitting alone at a table, and you’re looking right at him with an expression of resigned dread.

Frankie’s phone pings:  a message from Tom.

She wanted to apologize, Fish.

Then one from Pope.  Wouldn’t hurt to hear her out.

Frankie may be a lot of things, but he’s a nice guy.  Other men, egos wounded, may have turned and walked out or stayed and made a scene.  But Frankie offers you a small smile from across the room and then goes to join you.

****

To say you feel terrible would be an understatement.

You feel awful.  You feel like the lowest, rudest piece of shit to ever walk the earth.

You never meant for Frankie to overhear you, but that’s the thing—the lesson your mother tried to instill in you:  never say something behind someone’s back that you wouldn’t be willing to say to their face.

At the party, after Frankie left, Tom was the one to chew you out.  He pulled you aside, let you know that Frankie overheard your unkind words.  He gave you an exhaustive list of why the man was a good one, one of the best, and when you got home that night, you cried.

You hated to hurt people, especially perfectly nice, perfectly kind people like Frankie had seemed to be.

And he does seem perfectly kind, because he has no good reason not to turn around and leave or to march up to your table and yell at you, but he doesn’t do either of those things.  He walks over and sits down, and he even manages a smile.  It doesn’t reach his eyes, but it’s something.

*****

“Hi,” you say.

“Hi.”

“I’m sorry for the subterfuge.”  You pause, swallow nervously.  “I wasn’t sure you’d want to see me again, so I asked Tom to set this up.”

“You could have just texted me.  Gotten my number, you know?”

You nod.  “Yeah, but I wanted to apologize, and a text apology is lame.  Or a phone call.”

“You don’t have to—”

“Stop.”  You hold up a hand to silence him.  “Yes, I do.

“It’s not the worst thing I’ve heard from a woman.”

You frown.  “It doesn’t mean I shouldn’t apologize to you though.”  You reach down into the empty seat beside you, and you pull out a mixed bouquet of flowers.  You lay them gently in front of him, the little bundle of cheerful orange and yellow flowers.  

It’s absurd:  flowers as an apology, flowers gifted to a man from a woman…Frankie’s never gotten flowers before, but he finds himself touched by the gesture.  Charmed by it.  He reaches out and touches the velvety petals and wonders at the warmth of someone who would buy flowers for the person who could serve them a helping of crow.  He murmurs his thanks, and you murmur back that it’s nothing, it’s the least you can do.

He sits back in his chair and fixes you with a curious look.  “You know, just setting this up is more than enough.  I appreciate the gesture.”

“Can I buy you a beer?” you ask, looking around the room for your waitress.  “And something to eat?  Can I at least do that?”

He looks at you a beat longer and then nods.  “Yeah, sure.  That’d be nice.”

-----

There’s a moment early on when Frankie looks at you, and you gaze back at him so earnestly—pleading for a chance to apologize, so sincere that it seems like you might cry…he actually feels ashamed of himself.

That this entire thing became a thing.  That you stewed for a month while he wallowed.  That Tom and maybe Molly too gave you hell.  It wasn’t like you’d said anything overtly rude.  You had just expressed a desire to not get involved with a recently-divorced father.  Who could blame you?

He’s ashamed that this got blown up on his behalf, that you felt like you needed to trick him into a blind date (though he’s not sure it counts, since it was only blind on one side) to apologize.

But when you each get a beer in you, and when you split an order of loaded nachos, the tension between you eases and he finds that he’s enjoying himself.  Against all odds.

And he finds that he can listen to your apology, finally.

“I am really sorry, Frankie,” you say, and you look him in the eye when you say it.  No blinking, no glancing away.  “It was unfair of me to say those things about you.”

“You just said facts, though,” he replies softly.  “I am divorced.  I am a single father.”

“I put a value judgement around those facts with my tone.”

“Eh.”  He shrugs, reaches for another tortilla chip.

“Frankie, I hurt your feelings.  I feel terrible about it.”

He chews, swallows.  Takes a sip of beer and shrugs again.  “It’s okay.”

“Look.”  You lean forward, hands on the table and you look at him.  “I really enjoyed our conversation that night.  But when you told me that you just got divorced, that you have a baby at home, I sorta panicked.  I’m not saying this as an excuse, because I did hurt your feelings and it’s inexcusable.  But I did the whole “date a single father” thing before, and it ended really badly.  He was military too.  It just felt like…”.  You trail off, shift your gaze towards the ceiling as you try to put it into words.

“It felt like history repeating itself?” Frankie offers, and your eyes snap back to him as you nod.

“Yes!  Exactly.”  You reach for your glass and take a deep swallow of beer, then continue.

“It just got overwhelming in the span of…minutes.  You and I split up for a bit—you went off to get more drinks—and it was just…runaway thoughts.  Like, here I am talking to this cute guy, and he’s super nice but he just got divorced and his daughter’s still a baby so his ex-wife is still in his life, and it just…felt like I’d be signing up for more heartache.  So I panicked and pulled Molly aside, and that’s what you overheard.  You overheard me reliving the past and thinking it was about to repeat itself.”

Frankie’s head gets a little big, hearing that you think he’s cute, but he nods seriously and asks, “what happened with the other guy?”

You drop your eyes down to the table, and you trace your finger through a ring of condensation there.  “He got back together with his ex-wife.  I did…oh, about two years with him, playing second mom.  I did the sleepless nights and diaper changes and that really shitty period where the baby’s molars were coming in rapid-fire…and then he just up and got back together with his ex.”

Frankie clucks his tongue in sympathy.  “And he was military too?”

“Army.”

“Ah.”

You sigh.  You glance at him and then drop your eyes again.  “That was a year ago.  I finally thought I might be ready to date again.  I asked Molly if she knew anyone and she mentioned you.  She didn’t give me much about your situation…”

Frankie sits back in his chair and studies you for a moment.  The misery is written all over your face as you gaze fixedly at the tabletop.  Molly gave him none of this backstory.  Not a single bit of it.

“Well, shit.”  He chuckles, and it pulls your gaze to him.  “No wonder you panicked.”

You smile ruefully.  “I’m so sorry, Frankie.”

“It’s fine.  Really.”

You shake your head but the smile stays on your face.  “Can you just say you accept my apology?”

He smiles back at you, leans forward in his seat.  “I forgive you.”

-----

The rest of the evening is nice.  Maybe it doesn’t qualify as a date; maybe it was just a chance for you to apologize in person, but it’s still a nice evening out with a woman.  

The two of you commiserate about your failed relationships—you and your ex, Frankie and his marriage—and he feels that filament of hope flare up bright in him.  He understands how your past hurts drive you.  He thinks you maybe understand him a little bit too.

When the waitress brings the check, you reach out lightning-fast and swipe it from Frankie’s hand, and when he grumbles about it, you laugh and say “don’t you fucking even think about paying, buddy,” which makes him laugh too.

Frankie laughing with another woman.  The filament of hope burns brighter.

You each stand to leave, and when you struggle to pull your coat on, Frankie takes it from you, shakes it out.  Holds it for you, and it’s the briefest bit of touch—his fingertips against your shoulders—but it’s touch.  He hasn’t touched another woman since his ex-wife left him.

Outside, he walks you to your car and you linger, unsure how to part.  You kick at the gravel of the parking lot and then mutter, not quite able to meet his gaze, “so, you wanna meet up again sometime?”

Frankie’s been in plenty of scary situations with the military, but it occurs to him how terrifying this night must have been for you.  Despite Tom and Molly’s reassurances to his nature, this could have gone terribly.  You’re brave, he decides, to have wanted to make amends face-to-face, and you’re doubly brave now to put yourself out there and ask him out.  Now is the moment he could have his revenge if he wanted it, but he’s enjoyed his evening…

“Absolutely,” he says.  “Let me give you my number.”

[the-east-art]

Ode to the Tree Lightning Struck - Wip part 3

Joey drives, Ness takes shotgun, and Sylvin sits in the backseat. It’s somehow more uncomfortable than the last time Sylvin recalls sitting here - sometime during the mad dash to resummon Arakiel to Sylvin before a demon could find her as an open vessel. Probably a year and a half ago now, give or take. The seats are made up of cheap faux-leather - which is to say plastic - that’s cracking and peeling in places. The car is an old Nissan that’s still kicking probably due to prayers - in fact, now that Sylvin is thinking about it, maybe due to prayers specifically to Arakiel. Joey and Ness don’t have a lot of money, and Sylvin is unsure if they have the knowledge required to keep the junker alive as long as it has been. It feels a little ironic that the hunters of supernatural phenomena drive around in a car that is basically a zombie, only living off of parts taken from different, newer models. 

Sylvin considers sharing the idea to the others, but the air of the car is still thick with tension and unwelcoming to Sylvin and any conversation she might bring. This discomfort is of her own creation. Some part of her wanted this outcome, but sitting in the silence of the car trying not to make the plastic squeak too loudly when she moves to adjust her position, that desire feels very far away. 

She alternates picking at the plastic of the seat and the loose threads from the holes in her jeans. They were a little big on her, and the bra a little small, and none of it was really her style, but clothes were clothes. Beggars couldn’t be choosers, and Sylvin certainly felt like a beggar right now. No phone on her - she had the vague impression that it hadn’t ‘traveled’ well with Arakiel over the last four years, or that Arakiel just hadn’t seen a reason to keep track of it. No wallet either - she hadn’t had her purse on her when Arakiel had taken her as her vessel, so it was who knows where by now. Just her luck she’d look into her bank when she got a chance and find out her identity had been stolen EVEN MORE than it had by Arakiel and now she was in debt or something. 

In the front seat, Joey adjusts the music on her phone and her places it back in the ‘speaker’ - a glass cup that sits in the cup holder as a makeshift way to amplify the sound. It makes each of the songs adopt a tinny quality to them. 

The progress east was a combination of both reasons Sylvin had hypothesized: a mixture short days driving and a meandering direction. It felt like they were on some kind of a victory lap after saving the world - checking up on different people the pair had crossed paths with over the last four years. It made a kind of sense - see who was still kicking, pay respect to those who had died, and make sure that everyone that had been involved in the shitstorm knew that it was over.

Didn’t make Sylvin like it though. 

It made her feel like a child, being toted around by her parents and forced to sit off awkwardly on the sidelines while she was introduced to strangers. The entire affair was a lot like family reunions or church - back when Sylvin and her siblings would all stand slightly behind her mom, waiting for her to be done chatting about keylime pie recipes or whatever it was the moms discussed in church parking lots while their kids baked in the sun, reflecting off the dark asphalt. Those were the only instances where Sylvin actually envied the crazy Sunday hats the grandma’s wore. Sylvin and her three siblings would usually end up standing like dominos or some bizarre version of matryoshka dolls - line up so they were standing in eachothers shadows for at least a small reprieve from the heat. Atlas the unfortunate tallest of the bunch, bore the sunlight on his own. Or alternatively ran around the parking lot as a moving target, preventing the rest of them from using his shade. 

Just today they’d met up with 3 different people and 3 gravesites. Only one of the cemeteries had been planned - someone, a civilian, who had died on a job three years ago. The other two had been new deaths. A fellow hunter, vampire got the best of them. The other someone they had saved from the jaws of death already, took care of a poltergeist that had been hounding them. Didn’t matter - dead now - car crash. Bad luck. 

[cersworld]

scene ²⁷

y/n has had just about enough with the general public and their inability to keep their thoughts and opinions to themselves. park jisung likes to think he's living his best life, which he kind of is.

park sunghoon likes to portray himself as someone calm and collected, someone who has their life together; he likes to pretend he’s everything he's not. luckily, sim jaeyun seems to be with him every step of the way.

WARNINGS: swearing, mild violence, stereotyping, queer characters, emotional vacancy (she can't express her emotions well, outwardly), jay is definitely presented as the bad guy so be warned, a lot of feels, identity crises (not really?), inappropriate jokes (sexual and worrying *cough* eg. ED/binging, alexithymia *cough*), etc.

TAGLIST: @prettysung @polarisjisung @spiderrenjunfics

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

yeah.. this was definitely not a good idea.

"oh, you're here."

park jisung kind of wanted to slam the door in your face right now and slam his face into a wall, as you both stared at each other in silence, standing in his doorway. he was not ready to face you, in fact, he doesn’t think he ever will be. not after whatever the hell that breakup was last year.

instead, he cleared his throat, snapping you and himself out of your self loathing and regretful thoughts.

“okay,” he started, more to himself than to you as he moved to the side and motioned for you to come inside, “you can come in.”

“thanks.” you awkwardly chuckled as you slid your suitcase into the apartment, hearing the door click shut behind you before jisung came to stand next to you.

you look around quickly, although there isn't much to see in the small hallway you're both cramped in right now, you can see the living room from the structural hole made into the wall beside you and it doesn't look bad.

please don’t have somehow turned into a psycho mass murderer in the year i didn’t see or hear from you. i’m not ready to die yet…

it’s not that you didn’t have a sense of self preservation, you were just desperate. you are desperate.

jisung doesn’t need to know that though, as you bend down to unzip your boots and slide them off and wow, did he get taller?

that thought is instantly followed by: of course he did y/n, people change, believe it or not.

"okay, so…" the boy chirped, starting to shuffle his feet and turn around when you looked up at him, "uh, this is just the entrance, okay."

calm down ji it's just y/n. it's just y/n. it's y/n. jisung was panicking, not daring to look you in the eye as the possibility of him bursting into tears continued to increase with every passing moment.

he turned to point at the door behind him, closest to the entrance, "uh, this is my room, you… don't need to worry about that, okay follow me."

and then he’s marching down to the end of the short hallway, stopping in front of his room's door and turning to the side, "uh, this is the living room or whatever you wanna call it, it's uh… very multi purposeful…yeah.”

jisung was just about ready to slap himself after that, wow, thank god i didn't decide to be an english teacher.

"ahaha, okay…" you looked away from him awkwardly, not really knowing if what you were feeling was second-hand or just plain embarrassment, "uh, you can speak to me in korean, i've been learning for my show."

what show? "aha right, your show."

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

prev | masterlist | next

[https-maxine-stuff]

“The brightest star on darkest night.”

Nine.

.・゜゜・　　・゜゜・．

Tw: themes of hinted at ptsd, yelling, survivors guilt, and hallucinations.

Italics other than diary entries represent past memories

October 31st, 1978.

Dear diary, it's Halloween today, yay..

I feel sad for all the families who have lost their children, how they can no longer trick or treat with their kids they way they used to. It's heartbreaking to think about, knowing that there isn't a single thing I could've done to prevent that.

I get told I'm strong for surviving, but in all honesty I wish I had died that night, so I wouldn't be stuck with the constant struggle to get up, the struggle to keep my eyes open when I can see the mangled bodies of all those children. They are trying to recommend shock therapy to me and I honestly don't think it would help.

Nothing can get rid of these images, not the blood, not the pressure it applies to my chest when I hear a long serious of bangs, I can hear an axe chopping wood and I freeze and hyperventilate.

I don't think I'll ever be the same again.

- Maxine.

ੈ✩‧₊˚

"You've seem to be getting better, Maxine." The woman spoke, after her interaction with the last therapist they offered her a new one, seeing as male therapist's seemed to trigger that kind of response.

"It's Halloween.." she looked out the window of the small dingy room, it looked over a parking lot filled with cars, nice ones.

"Yes, it is. Do you like Halloween?"

She furrowed her brows for a moment before speaking, "I've always loved Halloween, the theme of horror had been such a big part of my life, I loved Stephen King books, I loved thrillers.. I loved Halloween."

"But horror now is just a bad memory correct?"

"..yes." Her eyes now narrowed on the woman. "..my boyfriend or well..ex-boyfriend enjoyed things like that too.. it was something we both could agree to, or well upon.." she laughed dryly.

-

"You can't handle this!?" She stared at Nick, her eyes wide with tears brimming the corners of them.

"Yes! I can't! You- you won't get out of bed! You refused to make any progress!"

"...Did you love me? Or was the idea of me that tempting."

"Max- I-" he seemed to stutter.

"Tell me, Nick. Did you love me?" Her voice broke slightly at the end. "Or- or was having a Shadysider girlfriend just a spot on your fucking bingo card?" She hit his shoulder a bit. "Was I just a game to you!?" Her voice kept breaking.

"No- what-"

"Tell me!! Tell me, Nick! Where's the boy I met huh?! Where's he!" She cried. "Where- Where's Mr.wasn't afraid of me! Or wanted to watch a movie every weekend as a hope for me to hold on! Well guess what! I lived! I lived!"

"Max! Please!" He grabbed her forearms holding the sobbing young woman in place. "I'm going to leave now.." she looked up at him through red bleary eyes.

"..please.."

-

"Maxine are you alright? You've seemed to be lost in thought."

"I'm..okay.." she sighed, "is the session over?"

"..yes, it is..I'm writing you a prescription for, Valium."

"Valium? My mother takes that.."

"Oh, uhm. Okay?" She wrote down the prescription and tipped it off the note pad and handed it to her.

"Take this, and I'll see you next, on Friday have a happy Tuesday.."

ੈ✩‧₊˚

Standing in line at the pharmacy her eyes just kinda drifted around the small store. "Next!" The cashier called out, she turned making her way upwards.

"Uhm, pick up? I think..I've never really done this." She handed the girl her prescription paper.

"One moment," she turned handing the paper off to someone in the back.

Maxine stood there awkwardly as the shuffling of bags and pills seemed to fill the air, suddenly more aware of the people coughing and sniffling their colds away.

"Here you go," she handed the small bag off "that'll be 15.40."

"Uhm, alright.." she pulled out some money and handed it to her, and headed off.

ੈ✩‧₊˚

Her eyes drifted over to the Shadyside bookstore, old and dingy.

A small smile tugged at her lips as she decided to head inside, the smell of mothballs and mildew hit her face almost instantly. Yet the store seemed to have this clean look to it, like it was taken care of nicely.

"Didn't you see the sign? We are closing soon so make it fast!" A male voice said from behind a shelf.

"Sorry! I wasn't paying attention to the sign." She looked over at the horror section but turned her eyes towards the romance section instead.

No more horror for her, she knew better. Maxine walked towards the area, old books scattered around, but this one seemed to catch her eyes the most 'Romeo and Juliet.' How sad, she grasped the old book in her hands, the sides of the hard cover seemed to be peeling and bent.

"Romeo and Juliet? A classic." She jumped a little at the voice as she turned her eyes towards the man.

"Hi." She smiled slightly.

"Hi, we close soon." He had such a sweet smile, but had the most unhappy tone.

"It's only.." she looked at her watch. "Two o'clock?"

"..."

"..."

"You gonna but that book or??"

"No need to rush me," she laughed a little. He stared at her expectantly.

“…”

“Aren’t you a tad rude..” she squinted as she looked at his name tag. “Rome.”

“I’m tired.”

“Same here but at-least I wouldn’t drive the customer out.” She rolled her eyes.

“Hey! We don’t get that many customers other than the old guys who think they still sell newspapers in here.” He hummed.

“Like Mr.Jenkins on Potters?”

“Yes! He’s so annoying, he needs to be put in a home..anyways.. book?”

“Yeah yeah, I’m buying.” He seemed relieved and lead her to the front.

“5.40 please.” He placed his hand out with a smile.

“Here,” she handed him the cash.

“Pleasure doing business with you, ms..”

“Maxine.”

“Pretty name for a pretty girl.” He winked.

“Weren’t you just trying to throw me out?”

“Is the flirting going to earn me a tip?”

“..No.” she laughed.

“Dammit.”

[alizachan]

Xander celebrating Aliza's Birthday!

Mama Alexis' note: Happy birthday, angel!

🔥 Xander is so so excited!

🔥 I mean, that goes without saying. Xander is pretty much an easily excitable person already. But this was ALIZA'S birthday for crying out loud!

🔥 He wants to make very moment last with you, so his romantic and energetic side only doubles on special days, like your birthday

🔥 He wanted to take you out for a fun day around the town, but he also wanted to surprise you as well!

🔥 He was almost so close to spoiling the surprise himself, nearly blurting it out. He tried to keep his distance from you, but he also can't stand not being near you

🔥 He just had to try his best to keep his loud mouth shut

🔥 So while Xander was planning for his day with Aliza, he asked David and Teruko to plan one final surprise party for you two to come back to

🔥"Sure thing, Xander. Anything for you and Aliza,"

🔥"Do we seriously have to? You already have....quite a day planned with her anyways,"

🔥"It's not just any day, Miss. Teruko! It's Aliza's birthday! She never had many good experiences with them. But she's away from those horrible people that mistreated her! And I want to make up for it!"

🔥"By blowing your whole budget on her?"

🔥*Cue Xander blushing and just letting out a few stutters before leaving*

🔥Aliza's special day started with Xander shaking her awake, a smile on his face

🔥 "Happy birthday to be wonderful, amazing, precious, beautiful, and show stopping girlfriend, Aliza Saphree!!!"

🔥"H-Huh?! X-Xander, I--"

🔥Before Aliza could even say something, Xander shoved a new dress in her hands and grinned at her cutely and with a blush

🔥 "Get dressed, love! We got a whole day ahead of us!"

🔥 "J-Just for me? Xander, you shouldn't h--"

🔥"Oi! No ifs or buts about it, sweetheart! C'mon, get dressed! Let me spoil you for the day. Or I will carry you out that door, in your pajamas, if I have to,"

🔥Breakfast at your favorite diner? Check!

🔥The arcade and seeing that new movie you've been dying to go to? Check!

🔥Shopping and Xander blowing hundreds of dollars for you? (Don't ask how he got that money. He has his ways) Check!

🔥A picnic lunch at the park? Check!

🔥Istg, good luck trying to keep up with this boy's energy! Well, if you can't, he'll just carry you ;)

🔥The day was really special, and Xander went to great lengths to visit all your favorite places and do anything fun! Laser tag, ice skating, visiting gardens, museums, a cat cafe, etc.

🔥It wasn't even over until you got home. Seriously, how are you not asleep yet?

🔥"Thank you for the wonderful day, Xander. I loved it so much,"

🔥"It's not over yet, Aliza,"

🔥"H-Huh?"

🔥"Open the door to the backyard,"

🔥"Xander, you didn't,"

🔥"Just open it, darling,"

🔥 Creeeeekkkkkk

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ALIZA!!!!"

🔥"X-Xander?!"

🔥 The red head just chuckle and wrapped an arm around your waist, kissing your cheek

🔥 "Happy birthday, angel. I love you,"

🔥 "You got all of our friends in on this, didn't you?"

🔥 Xander just chucked awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck

🔥 "Well, technically I only got Eden, Hu, Whit, David, and Teruko on board. Your mother had to invite Arei and Charles, but they're happy to be here. Oh, and Togo did the same with Ace. She promises to keep him in line,"

🔥"I also got Nico and Rose to come. Though, Nico was insisted on bringing his cat here. He said you loved them a lot,"

🔥"Teruko, you huge softie,"

🔥"Shut up,"

🔥 "Hey everyone is here now. Let's enjoy Aliza's birthday now. Together,"

🔥As if on cue of David's words, the final celebration went on. Everyone ate, chatted, and had a great time (though Nico had to make sure his cats wouldn't hide when Aliza wanted to pet them)

🔥"Thank you so much for helping me set up this party for Aliza, again,"

🔥"No worries, Xander. We all had lots of fun at the end,"

🔥"We sure did! Now go back and get your girl!"

🔥"Ew gross. Love,"

🔥"Now Arei, stop that. Let them have their moment" Hu sighed

=

🔥 When everyone left, there were only two ppl :)

🔥"Thank you for such a great day again, Xander. I can't believe you went out of your day just for me,"

🔥 "There's......one more surprise left for you,"

🔥"Huh?! N-No, Xander. This is too much--"

🔥"C'mon, it's truly the last one. I promise. It's in the bedroom,"

🔥"O-Oh?"

🔥"Not like that. I mean it's on the bed. It's something you've been wanting for a while,"

🔥"A-A new drawing tablet?"

🔥Xander smiled and nodded "That's the one,"

🔥Aliza rushed into the bedroom, to find said drawing tablet, along with mini cat plushie keychains as little bonus gifts :)

🔥Get comfortable Xander. Aliza ain't gonna stop hugging you for the whole night

AHHHHHHHVHJVGFHCMHV

AHHHHHH I LOVE THIS SO MUCH MAMA THANK YOUUU!!!

[mothbaaalls]

ok some Cat Lore because i want to infodump about my stripeys:

wet n' wild willy - if i had to guess, i'd say he's probably less than two years old? even though he looks very scraggly and old man-ish, he's pretty small for an adult male cat. i was sooo surprised at how small he was when i first picked him up! he was absolutely terrified when he was at the rescue, to the extent that the director thought he was a feral and they wouldn't be able to keep him, but since my mom and i have a room just for feral cats, we decided to bring him home. surprisingly the same night we brought him home, i was sitting on the cushions in that room and he came right up to me for some attention! he was hit by a car and his tail was broken in three places, and he has a red spot in the iris of his eye that's probably from that as well although it doesn't seem to affect his eyesight too much if at all. he has a lot of stuck shed on his butt and won't let me get it off (very rude!). he also has bald spots due to scarring around his ears due to having untreated earmites for a long time, so his ears look a little weird, but he's a sweet boy even if he's still scared of... basically everyone but me

ducky - i don't have a good estimate for his age, but he's probably around 10 months old! he's pretty small, and has moderate cerebellar hypoplasia (underdevelopment of the part of his brain responsible for coordination and movement) so he isn't able to walk by himself very much but he gets around very awkwardly and has to have help with the litterbox (he can go by himself but makes a mess). he was found abandoned in a parking lot, in a cardboard box together with his sister who unfortunately didn't make it :( he's an absolute sweetheart though and loves being held! he does really well with car rides, and came to work with me and my mom basically every day when we were working at the rescue! we also have a little backpack we can take him for walks in when the weather is nicer, but it's too cold now sadge

jupiter - she's probably about 8 months old, and when we first got her she had a pretty bad eye infection and a broken paw! we really thought she was going to lose the eye that was infected, but it didn't end up needing to be removed. even though she can't see out of it now, it doesn't bother her too terribly much! her paw is uncomfortable to walk on even now, but she still happily bats at things with it (it's her preferred paw for slapping, and she likes to stand up and grab things with it as well). we don't know where she came from, or why her paw was broken! her favorite toys are those little plastic spring things, but she's constantly in danger of losing them because the moopys love to steal them specifically from her

lilshit - when we got him, he was a 3week old bottle baby with swimmer syndrome, where his legs were splayed out from under him like he was swimming! we didn't have to do much physical therapy to correct it, and he's doing fine now as a 5-month-ish little terror :3 i don't know much about his lore, but he seems to have been left behind by his mom when she moved the rest of his litter (possibly due to his legs, or possibly she just missed him). HE'S SUCH A VIOLENCE BOY and very rarely purrs for me, but loves my mom sooo much it's so cute (he still attacks her feet tho)

The Meepys - two kittens, about 3 months old! they didn't have anything too terrible wrong with them when we first got them, just some fungal infections on their ears and upper respiratory infections that were easy to treat, but they looked AWFUL and they're like completely different cats now!! they're so big!! they were rescued from the house of a hoarder who had a lot of cats, so they're very social with other cats and i wasn't expecting them to be so people-friendly but they're SO sweet ;0; one of them (small moopy) LOVES to steal food though. when i'm setting out wet food for everybody she'll just lock on target on one single plate and ignore any other plate, even if one gets sat down closer to her

[unoficially-racetracks-fanfics]

It Couldn’t Hurt To Smile

Chapter 2 - Greetings From Newsies!

My alarm woke me up at 8:00 a.m, so I had enough time to prepare myself. I stood up and stretched a bit before quickly using the bathroom that was connected to my room and shuffling my Broadway playlist before taking a shower and washing my short hair.

I've never liked having long hair, I've always kept it short short. Or as some people might call it-god I hate the term- "a boys haircut". It's just more comfortable. It's also adorable on me. Long hair is too much work and gets in the way a lot. I taught myself how to cut my own hair to save money, of course I get it professionally done at least once every few months.

As I step out of the shower, I quickly tie a towel around myself, and dry my hair using a blow dryer and a brush to nicely push it back. It's not "too short", but it's not shoulder length either. More closer to earlobe length than chin.

I look at my phone and It's about 10:00, so I put on black sweatpants and a black sweatshirt and head out, texting Winnie that I'll be at the local cafe -that's not a Starbucks- until I have to head to the theater. I also decide not to bring my dance bag since they just said to wear something formal.

I pause my music and switch my phone case to be a wallet phone case and put my cards, ID, and some cash inside as I quietly leave my apartment and head to the cafe. I take the back ways to avoid people.

God I hate people.

I order a black coffee before finding myself a seat at a small table. I scroll on instagram for a bit after grabbing my coffee, and decide to go for a short walk in the park before heading to the theater.

The park was beautiful as always. It's kind of my escape place. I'll take runs or even just walks around this park for hours. I took in the beautiful view of trees that were waving in the wind and the partly cloudy clear by evening sky before starting my walk to theater, which is about a thirty minutes away.

I start humming some of Newsies on my way to the theater. Specifically Once And For All.

—————

As I finally arrive at the theater, I quietly open the door to find a small crowd of people inside. I sigh, before awkwardly walking to a corner to avoid people.

I watched as the last people entered, being a blonde boy, brunette, and a red head-his hair being a little brighter than mine-although mine is still natural.

I pull out my phone to text Winnie I made it, and quickly close it, holding it in my hand. As I focus on closing my phone, I look up to the brunette boy to be standing in-front of me, his friends snickering in the back. I roll my eyes.

"Hi!" He exclaims smiling widely.

"Mmm..." I hum trying to decide if I want to say something or not. "Hi."

"I'm Josh, I play JoJo!" He says just as happy. So this is the guy I have to pretend to be in love with. Great.

"Uhm...okay?" I say.

"And you are..." he says, giving me Olaf vibes. I might be a pain in the ass but I use to love Frozen.

"Kiara." I say. He smiles.

"You play flip!" He explains. I nod slowly.

"Is that news?" I ask.

"It is to me!" He say laughing a little. I roll my eyes and keep on my usual straight face.

"Attention everyone!" A man who I presume to be the director calls. "I'm the director, Jeff Calhoun." He says. "If you'd follow me to the stage, that's where we'll be giving off more information and do cast introductions." He says walking off. We all follow him into a large room filled with chairs and at the front, obviously a stage.

I took a seat as far back as I could on the aisle. Sadly, the one person I didn't want to sat next to me.

"Hey Kiara!" He says siting next to me. I nod in response as Jeff starts.

"Alright!" He says, not earning the attention from anyone. I raise my hand. He nods in defeat and I quickly run down to the stage.

"Can I say 'everybody shut up'?" I ask excitedly trying not to jump up and down. He gestures for me to go on.

"Everybody shut up!" I scream as loudly as I can. Everybody's attention turns to me. I nod at Jeff before hurrying back to my seat smiling a little before letting it fade as I sit down.

"Thank you Kiara!" He yells to me as I sit. "Alright everyone! Welcome to Newsies First National Tour!" He exclaims as everyone cheers a bit. After minute, everyone stops. "I would like to give you all a few heads up before we begin with introductions. First, our first performance will be in this same very theater. We will then fly the next morning to Colorado. A small reminder for the ladies, you are on a tour with a bunch of Immature men who look and act like boys. So pack appropriately." He says making some of the girls laugh.

"Now, since our additional information is out we can begin introductions. When I call your name, please come to the front and say your name, age, character, and a fun fact about yourself." He finishes.

After a few people, I end up having to stand for three boys, Ben, Sky, and the boy who talked to me earlier, Josh.

"Hi my names Ben, I am 17, I play Race, and a fun fact about me is that i have a twin sister." He says.

Then there was Sky. "Hey, my names Sky, I'm 19, I play Albert and a fun fact about me is that I have two brothers." He says.

Lastly there was Josh. "Hello! My names Josh, I'm 18, I play JoJo and a fun fact about me is I love bacon!" He says smiling widely. I stand up as they take their seats again.

"Lastly, Kiara." Jeff says. I sigh and stand up, walking up onto the stage.

"Uh... hi." I say awkwardly. "I'm Kiara, I'm 18 as well, I play Flip, a fun fact about me is... uh... I guess it's that I don't like sweets or care for flowers." I say before walking off the stage.

"Who's flip!?" I hear someone shout. I roll my eyes.

"Flip is an added love interest for JoJo." Jeff says.

I turn to face Josh, whose face is redder than Sky and I's hair. I smirk a little, before turning back to face Jeff, who gives a quick goodbye before letting us go out into the rest of the theater to explore.

I decide to explore the dressing rooms. Since there's a lot of them. I look at the labels, which have newsies names on them.

I walk around and finally find the girls dressing rooms, and look for the one labeled "Flip". I quietly open the door to take a look inside. My eyes widen.

It was a medium sized room, far too big for one person. There was a fair sized vanity with makeup sitting on top, which looked to be my shade.

I quickly sat down in the black shinny chair that was tucked into the vanity and started to organize the makeup by what it is, then separate it based off of if it's a pallet or a bottle. I carefully put in the drawers organized.

I hurried out of the dressing room. Before I could even close the door, I ran into someone.

"I'm so sorry." I quickly apologized.

"No, that was my fault. I should have been looking where I was going." He says. Why is that voice so familiar? I look around to take in my surroundings, and finally look at who I ran into.

"Oh, hey Kiara!" Josh says. I sigh.

"Hi Josh." I say, lying down on the ground from my sitting position. I saw him out of the corner of my eye stand up.

"Want a hand?" He says, reaching out his hand. I nod and sit up and take his hand, holding it for a second before pulling myself up with his help. I almost thought I saw a small blush dust his cheeks.

While I was trying to decide if I did see him blush, I realized he disappeared, leaving me standing in the middle of the hallway.

I shrug and head down to the lobby. As I walked inside, I noticed a sign.

Find your name and feel free to take the stuff! Don't forget to talk to Jeff or a staff member to get your newsies shirt!

I walked around the small array of tables and found my name. I took a look at the stuff on the table.

A suitcase with the newsies logo, a normal looking backpack, a newsies water bottle, and a note which I assumed to be from the staff. I shoved the note in my pocket, before going to find a staff member to get a shirt.

After I got my newsies shirt, I head back to the lobby to grab my stuff. I say quick goodbyes and head back to my apartment. Although the goodbye I said to Josh was kind of awkward. Well, he made it awkward. He didn't seem like his usual self. I just shrugged it off though.

Once I arrive back to my apartment I hurry back to my room, going unnoticed by Winnie. I flopped myself onto my bed after putting my newsies stuff in an empty corner. I sigh before pulling out the note.

I think you're really pretty.

              -Anonymous

Ps. I had to google how to spell anonymous.

That's not hella creepy.

Chapters:

Chapter 1 : https://www.tumblr.com/unoficially-racetracks-fanfics/740622382943928320/it-couldnt-hurt-to-smile

Chapter 2 - you are here! 🥖

Chapter 3 - https://www.tumblr.com/unoficially-racetracks-fanfics/740640623724544000/it-couldnt-hurt-to-smile