#poppy-eyed bat | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

blueraineshadows · 1 year

Text

Brothers Part Four

Garreth Weasley 🔺️ F!MC 🔺️Oscar Weasley

A love rivalry between two brothers. Oscar is an OC created by @eternalremorse and used with her permission. Chapter Master List

Chapter Four - The First Kiss

As September led into October, MC had settled back into the rhythm of classes and being with her friends. There was more time to appreciate everything that Hogwarts had to offer this year, what with no enemies to battle or a huge workload to catch up on. While she was still inexperienced compared to her classmates, everything seemed to be much more enjoyable this time, and she had the freedom to grow her friendships in her free time.

Study sessions with Sebastian and Ominis now included Garreth, a welcome addition as far as MC was concerned. He brought some much needed laughter to their trio, and it warmed her heart to see it on Sebastian's face. She knew the shadows that plagued him. They still haunted her dreams at night on occasion, so having someone like Garreth around was therapeutic.

One afternoon, she lay on her bed reading the latest letter from her old friend at the orphanage, a small sigh escaping her at the words recounting the details of her wedding. MC had begun to feel rather removed from that old life, especially being back here at school, and now that her old friend was married it meant that there was nobody else at the orphanage waiting for her anymore.

Poppy looked up from the latest novel she was reading. "Why the sigh, MC? Is it bad news?"

"Not exactly," MC said. She waved the letter. "My friend is now a married woman at the age of eighteen. I can not imagine what that would feel like, but she seems happy enough."

Poppy gazed into the distance, a crease on her brow. "Hmm, I must admit, I couldn't imagine myself married yet either. At least she sounds happy, though."

MC folded the letter and returned it to the envelope. "How do you even know if you're marrying the right one? I mean, shouldn't you give it more time? She only met her husband in the summer."

Poppy grinned. "You don't see yourself marrying Oscar, then? I could see you as a Mrs Weasley."

"Don't be ridiculous, Poppy," MC said, flushing. "Oscar and I aren't even courting."

Poppy made a rather rude sound blowing air through her lips. "You might as well be," she scoffed. "He carrys your books for you, makes a point of chatting to you at dinner, and as for the way he looks at you, well...all that is missing is the snogging."

It was true. Oscar was always there with a charming smile and a kiss for her hand. At first, she had been rather overwhelmed and shy about it, but she had to admit, he was winning her over. How could she ignore the attention of a boy so handsome? She was finding it harder to decline his attempts to spend time with her, running out of excuses, and if she was really being honest, she actually wanted to spend time with him. This was despite the looks of disapproval she received from Sebastian every time Oscar appeared to steal her away for a few moments.

She eyed Poppy, biting her lip. "He asked me to come and watch him at Quidditch practise," she said.

"Are you going?" Poppy looked at her expectantly.

MC smiled. "I did say I would."

Poppy gave a little squeak, her legs kicking happily against the bed. "See! You're courting," she said excitedly. "You just wait. He will be kissing you next, and I expect a full update when he does."

MC gave a short laugh, not entirely convinced that it was true, but the thought did make her heart beat a little faster.

....*....

The first frost was glittering on the grass come October, the sky a pale blue behind the turning colours of the trees. The air was chilled, and it stung Oscar's cheeks as he flew across the Quidditch pitch, his arm swinging wide as he cracked his bat against the Bludger. The sheer effort he put into sending the iron ball flying across towards his teammate made him grunt loudly through clenched teeth.

It was the last team practise before the first big game on Saturday. Gryffindor was up against Slytherin in the first round of the season, and Oscar was determined for a win. They needed it. What a moral boost it would be to kick the season off with a win, and more than anything, he wanted to wipe that smug grin off Sallow's face.

Oscar was beginning to suspect that Sebastian didn't like him very much, and he was fairly sure it was because at every opportunity he could manage, he was with MC. He made a point of chatting to her in the Great Hall, leaning on the table beside her, making her blush in front of her Hufflepuff friends. He would try and catch her between classes, whisper into her ear in the library, and best of all, charm that smile out of her.

When he had asked her to come along and watch training today, he had expected her to say no, especially as Sallow was right beside her when he posed the question to her. But, a quick glance over to the stands, and he could see her sitting there, wrapped up in her robes and scarf, and it made his heart lift. No matter that his brother was sat beside her. She had come, and that was enough, for now.

The Bludger came hurtling back towards him, and Oscar's thighs gripped the broom tightly, arm swinging out as he narrowed his gaze onto it before sending it straight back with a loud whack. Isaac came zooming up, turning his broom before slowing to hover beside him.

"Let's call it a day," Isaac said. His nose and cheeks were pink from the cold. "A hot shower and some grub is in order."

Oscar nodded, and Isaac shouted to the others. They gathered up the Quidditch balls and flew down to land on the grass below, where Isaac gave the team a rousing speech. Isaac's passion for the game was blazing in his eyes, and it seemed to inspire them all.

"We've got this," Isaac said. His eyes gleamed with determination as they began to pack away the gear. "Come Saturday, we're going to take down those snakes."

Oscar helped get the fiesty Bludgers back into the box, puffing with the effort as Isaac chained them in. Isaac glanced behind Oscar and grinned, giving him a hearty slap to the shoulder.

"Here comes your little Hufflepuff," he said quietly. He winked at Oscar. "You seem to be winning her over, Weasley. I'll leave you to it."

As Isaac walked away, Oscar straightened and gave MC a smile as she approached, a flutter of something erupting in his stomach. Her nose was pink with the chill, but her entrancing eyes were bright. A quick scan around the pitch showed Garreth standing with Leander, chatting with the others, his back to them. Oscar reached out to take hold of the end of her scarf, making the most of having her to himself. He gave it a little tug, bringing her even closer.

"I'm glad you came," he said. "I hope you're coming to the game on Saturday, too. I want to see you cheering for me in those stands."

"I'm not sure how my Slytherin friends will feel about that," she chuckled. "Sebastian will be playing, don't forget. I can't not cheer for my best friend."

Indeed, Sallow would be playing as Beater against Oscar, which should make for interesting game play, to say the least. Oscar took a risk, pulling her closer still, reaching up to tuck a stray wisp of hair behind her ear. "I know how I will feel about it if you do come and cheer for me," he said softly.

He was rewarded with the delicate spread of pink across her cheeks, and he smiled, his fingers lingering in her hair by her ear. He wanted to kiss her, his mouth hungry to feel the softness of her lips. It was tempting. He even leaned down towards her as if he was going to do just that.

She licked her lips, her tongue flicking out for a quick swipe before disappearing again, the delicate movement arousing a heat within that made him want to hold her even closer.

"You're not going to make me wear a Gryffindor scarf, are you?

"Now, there's an idea," he said. He tilted his head at that pleasing image, gently moving his fingers down towards her jaw. He slid his thumb across her skin, relishing the delicate curve of the bone there, and felt her shiver. "If I give you mine, would you do it? Would you like to wear it for me on Saturday?"

Her beautiful eyes were searching his, and he could feel her trembling under his fingers. It stoked the fire in his belly. Her eyes were full of innocence, and yet there were shadows hidden in those depths. She intrigued him. This felt different to all the other girls he had been with. Why did she get under his skin like this?

She wasn't backing out from his daring touch despite them being on full view of the whole pitch, and it was the most he had ever touched her. He risked sliding his thumb towards her mouth, her breath hitching as he teased near the corner. He ached for more.

"Alright," she agreed, her voice almost a whisper. "I'll wear your scarf for the match."

Triumph filled his chest, and his smile was slow, satisfied, as he brushed the tip of his thumb over her tantalisingly soft, lower lip. She would wear his scarf, cheering for him and not her Slytherin friend. It felt like a victory in itself. Unable to resist any longer, Oscar closed the gap and pressed a soft kiss to the tip of her nose, the skin chilled under his warm lips.

Their gazes locked, and he felt that pull, that urge for more. He wanted to claim her mouth, but he held back, savouring the exquisite pleasure of winning her over. He did enjoy the chase, and this had been a slow burn that was gradually consuming him. He didn't want to rush and spoil it. Plus, there were too many people nearby. He wanted her completely to himself.

"Can I see you later?" He asked. "Just us."

He watched as her eyes widened and he could feel each thud of his heart. He had arranged to meet up with girls before, but this time, it felt different. He really wanted her to say yes. He was almost holding his breath.

"Are you asking me on a date?" She asked softly.

"Would you like it to be a date?"

She pulled a face as though considering the option, but the teasing pull of her mouth gave her away. It made his own lips twitch with a smile, relief making him almost shudder as she gave him a shy nod of confirmation.

"Be ready at 6 pm," he said. His thumb caressed her cheek, his mouth so temptingly close to hers. "I will meet you outside your common room."

The sound of a throat being cleared made them both turn, and MC stepped quickly back away from him. Garreth was standing there watching them, his face awkward and rather grim like he had swallowed something sour. Oscar slowly lowered his hand, the one that had been rather comfortable against her soft skin, and he eyed his brother carefully.

Garreth's eyes were dark, unimpressed, but he managed a tight smile. "Not interrupting anything, am I?"

Oscar thought perhaps his brother was interrupting them on purpose, their eyes meeting in a silent battle of wills. A flash of guilt speared through him, and he fought back against it. He didn't want to hurt his brother intentionally, but his competitive streak was winning out. He knew Garreth liked MC. It was obvious in the way he was often with her, the soft smiles he sent her way that made Oscar's guts tighten up with envy.

"No, no, it's alright," MC smiled. She moved towards Garreth, her hands fiddling with her scarf. "Are you ready to walk back?"

Garreth nodded and offered her his arm, which she took without any hesitation. Oscar's envy flared. His earlier feeling of triumph slipped a little, and he had a compelling urge to take her arm and bring her back towards him. He pushed his hands into the pockets of his Quidditch trousers instead, but decided that a little reminder for this evening wouldn't go amiss.

"I shall see you later, MC," he said.

Garreth gave them both a curious look, but neither he nor MC elaborated on their plans. Her smile was warm as she nodded at Oscar, and she gave him a wave. Oscar clung on to that warm smile she had given as she held his brother's arm and let him escort her away across the Quidditch pitch.

....*....

Seeing MC at the Gryffindor Quidditch practise session had merely added to Garreth's suspicions that she liked Oscar. It was difficult to swallow, especially when it was right under his nose every day. Having to stand by and watch as Oscar met her after class was something he was having to get used to. While nothing was confirmed, it was clearly only a matter of time before they were official.

It kept him awake at night. Oscar dallied with girls. There had never really been anyone serious, but this felt different. Oscar looked keen, and he wasn't giving up. Perhaps he felt something for MC, something more than a mere dalliance, and Garreth wasn't sure if that was better or worse.

What was even more infuriating was his own lack of confidence in himself. Since their outing to gather potion ingredients, he hadn't asked her to do anything else, content to be in her company in whichever way she chose. He had slowly been welcomed into her circle of friends, and he had found himself rather enjoying Poppy's mischievous chatter and, more surprisingly, he was even forming a friendship with Sebastian. While the Slytherin always seemed to have a watchful eye on him, it no longer felt threatening, and they even held conversations when MC wasn't around.

MC seemed happy. The shadows and exhaustion that clouded her face during 5th year were no longer there, and for this, Garreth was grateful. She smiled a lot more, and if it was his brother causing that, then Garreth was begrudgingly accepting it. That didn't mean it was easy to watch, though.

Seeing her sitting in the chilly stands watching the practise, he had gone to join her. Of course, he had sat with her, and of course, it had been easy to chatter away and bring a smile to her lips. But, her eyes had followed Oscar as he flew across the pitch, whacking the Bludger with those strong, Beater arms of his. Oscar was athletic and strong, and he looked good on a broom. Garreth knew that look on her face. It was the look most girls made when they stared his brother's way.

The worst moment of all, though, had been when he had turned away from Leander to look for her after practise. He had paused in his step, staring as Oscar touched her face, his head bent close enough to kiss her if he wanted, and MC was staring up at him, cheeks flushed and not from the cold he was sure.

It had made his stomach feel empty and heavy all at the same time. He was doomed to remain her friend and nothing more, it would seem. If it wasn't for the gleam of triumph in his brother's eyes, he might have been content with that, but he couldn't help but feel a pinch of concern.

As he escorted MC across the pitch back to the castle, Oscar's last words to her played on his mind. He gave her a curious look.

"I take it you have plans to see Oscar later?"

She nodded. "Yes, I did say I would catch up with him after dinner."

Garreth nodded slowly and nibbled at his lower lip. "He seems to be around a lot lately, I think he may have a soft spot for you."

She blushed and dipped her head. "Is that a bad thing?"

"No, not a bad thing," he said. He hesitated, worry teasing at his brow. "Although, Oscar is... shall we say, rather fickle when it comes to girls, and they seem to drop their knickers all too easily around him."

Her step slowed and she looked at him. "What are you saying?"

"Oh, not that I think you would do such a thing," he said quickly, cringing a little. "You don't seem that type at all."

MC frowned, her eyes wary. "What sort of girl do you think I am, then?"

He flushed and rubbed his hand through his hair. "Well, you're the lovely kind, of course," he said. His mind went blank, and his mouth was moving of its own accord now, always a dangerous thing. "You're sweet, and sensible, not the slutty type in the slightest."

"I should hope not!" Her eyes widened, and her arm slipped out of his, a mortified look swept across her face. "Gods, that's not what Oscar thinks is it?"

Garreth winced and shook his head. "I'm sure that's not the case," he said. His shoulders slumped, and he sighed. "In fact, I've never seen him this keen over a girl before, so no, I don't think he sees you that way at all."

It was galling to admit it, but it was true. He gave her a look full of earnest concern, and he reached for her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I'm sorry, I didn't word it very well at all. I just don't want him to hurt you, MC," he said quietly. "You don't deserve that."

As much as that was true, Garreth could not deny his own jealousy had played a part in this rather awkward exchange. Maybe he was trying to plant a seed of doubt in her thoughts, and while he felt guilty about trying to thwart his own brother, he genuinely didn't want MC to get hurt.

"It's alright, Garreth. I know you mean well," she said. She gave him a smile and squeezed his hand back. "I can take care of myself, though. I've always had to. I'll be fine."

As they continued to walk, he could tell she was thinking about what he had said. She had assured him that she would be fine, but he just couldn't help feeling that slither of worry.

When she parted from him, she gave him a swift hug, the scent of her perfume lingering around him as she had disappeared down the winding staircase towards the Hufflepuff common room.

Maybe she could look after herself, but just because she'd had no choice in her life so far, that didn't mean things had to continue being that way. He was right here, ready in case she needed someone.

....*....

When Poppy entered the dormitory, she found MC in a bit of a flap, clothing strewn across her bed as she held up garments in front of her, sighing and flinging them aside.

Poppy giggled. "What's going on here?"

MC gave Poppy a harassed look, biting her lip. "I want to look nice, but not in a slutty way," MC said. "I don't want to give Oscar the wrong idea about me."

Poppy gasped and rushed forward to grab her hands. "Do you have a date with Oscar?"

"Sort of," MC said. She tilted her head. "He is coming to get me at six. He said he wanted to see me, and it just be us two."

Poppy squealed and wrapped her arms around MC, her head pressed against her chest. "This is so exciting!"

MC laughed and hugged her back. "He kissed me on the nose."

MC blushed as she remembered the feel of Oscar's fingers in her hair and the heat in his eyes as he had looked at her. For a breathless moment, she had thought he was going to kiss her properly, but the touch of his lips on her nose had gripped her heart more tightly than she could have ever imagined.

Poppy gazed up at her, eyes sparkling. "Do you think he will kiss you properly tonight?"

Despite Garreth's fumbled warning when he walked her back earlier, MC could not deny that she would like Oscar to kiss her. This had been building for weeks now, ever since that day he had taken her for a broom ride.

A kiss would be perfectly acceptable, she decided. She had already received plenty from him on the back of her hand, and now on her nose, too. It wasn't as though she was intending on anything more scandalous. She was not ready for that in any case. But a kiss? Yes. She could do that.

"He just might," MC said. Her pulse fluttered. "I might be able to tick off one of my top five kissable boys after all."

Poppy blinked and then they both burst into giggles, Poppy squeezing her so tightly she could hardly breathe.

....*....

After dinner, Garreth had returned to the common room and took up a spot on his favourite settee, pulling out his journal and noting down his swirling thoughts. Jealousy gnawed at him. He was worrying that MC would get hurt, but also concerned that Oscar liked her a bit too much. It made his head spin because underneath all of that, he knew he cared for MC in a deep, incomprehensible way.

Laughter from the other side of the common room made him look up from his doodling. Leander, Isaac, and some others from the Quidditch team were gathered, chatting and seemingly having a lovely time. Garreth frowned and looked away, not interested in joining them tonight. His gaze moved towards the entrance to the dormitory stairs as Oscar appeared, dressed in smart trousers and a blue woollen jumper. He'd bathed, his hair was still damp, and Garreth's mouth twisted miserably. Oscar was ready to go and meet with MC.

A flash of something hard and determined coursed through him. It made him tingle as he closed his journal and slipped it out of sight. He got up from the settee and headed for Oscar, pulling him to one side out of earshot from the others.

"A word, brother, if you wouldn't mind," he said.

Oscar's blue eyes, eyes just like their mother's, looked at him curiously. "What's up, Gar?"

"I know you're going to meet MC," he said firmly. Determination made his jaw tight, and his heart was beating a little faster as he stared at his brother. He had always looked up to him, envied him, but he had to do this.

Oscar's eyebrows lifted a little. "Is that a problem?"

Garreth shook his head. "No, not yet at least," he said. He stared at Oscar, resolute. "But if you hurt her, brother, you'll have me to answer to. Do you understand me?"

Oscar's eyes widened, an incredulous smile curving his lips. "Are you kidding me?"

Garreth pressed his fingers into Oscar's chest, not hard but firm enough to make his point. "I mean it. Don't treat her like all those other girls you fucked and then discarded. MC isn't like them, Oscar. Don't hurt her."

Oscar's smile faded and his eyes narrowed. "I know she's not like that," he said quietly. "That's why I like her, brother."

Garreth removed his hand, eyes still wary as he stepped back from Oscar. He nodded. "Good."

Oscar frowned a little as he stared at Garreth. Garreth could feel the tremble in his limbs from the adrenaline rush that came from standing up to his brother like this. It was crazy what one girl could make you do.

"I'm not planning on hurting her, Garreth," Oscar said. "Are we good?"

Garreth nodded. "We're good as long as we understand each other."

Oscar gave him the longest look before he nodded and walked away, stopping to grasp fists with Isaac, who leant in to whisper something into Oscar's ear that had them both grinning, and bumping their shoulders.

Garreth may not be happy with how Oscar was spending his evening, but it had felt good to say his piece. He returned to his settee and pulled his journal back out. He had plenty of page space left for today to cover in thoughts and dreams.

....*....

Stepping out of the Hufflepuff common room, Poppy's words of encouragement in her ears, MC was met with a pair of sparking blue eyes and a charming smile as Oscar stepped forward to take her hand. With her breath almost stilling in her lungs, she let Oscar press his usual kiss to the back of it. This time, however, his lips lingered a little longer, and his eyes never left hers. There was a promise in the gesture this time.

She smiled softly and allowed herself to step a bit closer towards him. "So, where are we going, Mr Weasley?"

His lips tilted, amused at the formality. He gave her a little bow and offered his arm, delighting her as he played along. "I thought we would take an evening stroll, Miss MC," he said. "It's a bit chilly out, but never fear, I know a rather good warming charm that will keep us nice and cosy.'

MC took his arm. "Sounds perfect. Lead the way."

They walked through the castle, drawing a few curious stares as they made their way outside and along to the gardens above the Hufflepuff common room. Oscar did indeed cast a warming charm for them, and MC appreciated it against the chill of the night. Their breath misted in the air as they chatted, the sky clear and sprinkled with star light.

As they neared the fountain, the water was trickling still, but frost was forming at the edges, the damp patches on the stone ground around it beginning to glitter in the soft light spilling from the castle windows. Oscar guided her around one such slippery patch, urging her to mind her step.

"So, now that it is just us, what would you like to do?" MC asked curiously. As much as it was nice to chat with him, she wondered if he'd made any plans.

Oscar's smirk suggested that he had and led her past the fountain, and down the steps, he held her steady as they picked their way over the grassy slope towards the viewpoint. The moonlight shone across the Black Lake, and the lonely hoot of an owl sounded above them.

"I thought we could just spend some time together," he said. He led her to a stone bench. "I usually have to share you with your friends, so I thought I would steal you away and have you all to myself."

MC felt her cheeks warm up and was glad of the night's darkness as Oscar pulled a bag of sugary treats from his pocket. He held it out to her. "Lemon sherbet drops?"

MC took one and popped it into her mouth as they took a seat. Oscar immediately shuffled closer, slipping his arm about her shoulders and putting the bag of sweets on his lap. She could feel the warmth of him as he pressed close, and she felt nerves flutter in her tummy. She fiddled with her fingers, unsure of where to put her hands in this kind of situation.

"We do seem to be alone," MC said, her eyes glancing about.

Oscar looked down at her. "Are you okay with that? We could always go back inside."

"No, its fine," she said. She looked up at him. "It's actually quite nice."

He met her gaze, his hand coming up to trail fingers along her jaw as he had done on the Quidditch pitch. She swallowed. It had felt lovely at the time, but this felt different, more daring, more exciting in the quiet darkness.

"I want you to know that I would never make you do anything that you didn't want," he said softly. "If you ever feel uncomfortable, please tell me."

MC nodded, his fingers a warm distraction as they teased under her ear. "I'm fine, honestly," she said. She took a shaky breath. "Maybe a little nervous, though," she admitted.

"Of me?" He asked.

"More like just this..." MC's hand fluttered between them. "I've never...you know..."

His eyes softened. "You've never kissed anyone before?"

She shook her head, heart pounding. Maybe she wasn’t ready for this, her nerves were making her hands tremble and she was sure she must look foolish. But then she was looking into those gorgeous blue eyes, the soft lights from the common room windows providing just enough glow on the freckled skin of his face, and the nerves didn't seem so terrible. They were good nerves, excited nerves.

He bit his lower lip, a gleam of white against plump, pink flesh and his gaze dropped to her mouth. "Do you want to?" He whispered.

His fingers slid past her ear, gliding effortlessly into her hair and she shivered as tingles spread along her spine "Yes," she breathed.

As Oscar's head bent towards her, his face moving slowly closer, MC held her breath as he pressed a gentle kiss to the tip of her nose again. This close, she could smell the clean scent of his hair and admire the delicate curve of his copper eyelashes as his mouth moved to press another kiss to her cheek. His lips were soft and warm, his breath hot against her as his mouth moved along her skin. Her eyes fluttered closed, her heart pounding as she savoured every soft brush of his lips.

Her nerves seemed to slip away with every delicate touch of his mouth as he kissed his way towards her ear. The hand he had slid into her hair now cupped the back of her head, tilting her slightly to allow him better access as she felt the gentle grip of teeth on the shell of her ear. A soft gasp escaped her lips, and her hands lifted to grip the soft wool of his jumper.

Every breath chased the next, and her pulse flickered at a rushing pace as his mouth trailed along her jaw. Finally, he reached the sensitive flesh at the corner of her mouth. Her lips parted slightly, her heart pounding in her ears as he brushed the softest kiss against them. He claimed her top lip in another kiss before moving to take the bottom. This lip he kissed with devastating slowness, a teasing slide of tongue caressing before he took it into his mouth in a testing suck.

MC thought that perhaps her bones had melted. She clung to him, rational thoughts wiped utterly clean from her mind until all she knew was Oscar's scent, his taste, and the soft tease of his mouth.

Her eyes blinked open when she realised he had stopped. She met his gaze, eyes so close she was lost in them. "My goodness," she whispered.

The corners of his eyes crinkled up as he smiled, his nose brushing gently against hers.

"Please tell me you want to do that again?"

MC was still mindless, lips tingling and eager for more. Feeling bolder than she expected, she answered him by pressing her lips against his for a quick kiss of her own.

His eyes blazed, delighted. "I'm going to take that as a yes."

His kiss was firmer this time, but no less enjoyable. MC kissed him back, feeling bolder with each taste, her hands moving up to hold his head. His hair was soft against her fingers, and she heard his sigh as she dragged her hand through it. The slow and steady heat that was building within her flared at the sound, his own pleasure seeming to enhance her own.

She felt his tongue against her lips again, a gentle probe, and at his persistance, she parted her lips a little, and he took advantage. A soft moan sounded in her throat as the soft slide of his tongue met hers. It was intrusive, but it felt so good. She hesitated a little, unsure of how to handle this new turn, but his soft caress at her cheek eased her worries.

He took his time as he kissed her, exploring her mouth with a thoroughness that stole her breath. He tasted like the lemon drops and his own unique taste. At some point, they would need to come back up for air. The snatches she managed to grab in between his kissing sounded like desperate gasps, but he was breathing just as hard.

He shifted, his hand moving down over her shoulder, caressing along her arm before settling on her waist. He pulled her closer, the heat between them seeming to fire into something much more intense. His hand squeezed, fingers gripping her tightly, and he moaned. MC felt a flutter of panic break through the haze that clouded her mind, a little overwhelmed, and she squirmed.

He stopped immediately, releasing her mouth and pressing his forehead to hers, his eyes tightly closed as he gathered his breath. MC panted, lips damp and swollen, and cheeks thoroughly flushed as she watched him.

"Sorry," he gasped. He opened his eyes, turning to look out at the view as he slowed his breathing. "I got a bit carried away. Forgive me."

MC smoothed her hands through his hair, brushing it back from his forehead, and he turned to her again. "It's alright," she whispered.

He put his hand over hers, moving it so he could press a kiss to her palm before he shifted, sitting up a little straighter but not letting her go. He tucked her firmly into the crook of his arm, her head against his shoulder.

"You have no idea how long I've been wanting to do that," he said. "But, I will go at your pace. I meant what I said, I don't want to pressure you."

MC took hold of his hand, tracing his skin with her thumb, exploring the calluses from his Quidditch play. A part of her, the curious part, wondered what it would be like if they had carried on, how flustered and hot it would have become. The other part of her, the nervous, innocent girl that had no idea what she was doing, was grateful that he had some self-restraint.

This could not be the end, though. She'd had a taste now, and kissing had turned out to be wonderful, much better than reading about it in a book.

"If it makes you feel better, I am not opposed to more kisses like that."

He quirked an eyebrow. "Is that so?"

She nodded, a small giggle escaping her. His smirk was very satisfied as he linked their fingers.

"Does this mean I can call you my girl, now, MC?" He asked.

MC stared up at him, looking deep into his eyes and she saw the anticipation that glowed there. A delighted flush of warmth spread through her at the thought of being Oscar Weasley's girl.

"It looks like I need to get used to wearing the colour red," she said with a grin. "I get the feeling I am going to be wearing a Gryffindor scarf a lot, and not just for your matches."

Oscar's smile lit up his face and he pulled her in for a firm kiss to the lips. "I shall bring it to you first thing tomorrow morning when I walk you to breakfast," he promised.

MC let him wrap her up in his arms, holding her snugly against him as they looked out across the valley, the stars twinkling above them. She touched her fingers to her kiss-swollen lips, remembering the feel of him, a soft smile settling there. She had not planned to find a boyfriend this year, and yet here she was, she was Oscar's girl and by tomorrow the whole school would know. She wasn't sure she cared what they would whisper because this was her choice, and it felt right.

Happiness bloomed in her chest and she couldn't wait to exchange excited whispers with Poppy later when she returned.

To be continued...

#hogwarts legacy fanfic #garreth weasley #oscar weasley #oscar weasley x mc #garreth weasley x mc #blueraineshadows

46 notes · View notes

dearmailman · 1 year

Note

Yay! Thank you for responding :)

I would really like to request a writing piece about a Regressor Howdy? It may seem silly but I like to picture him on the Younger/Baby side of regression!

I don't mind fanfic or headcanons, nor who would be a caretaker in this scenario (if anyone at all!), just whatever's easiest on you!

Thank you again Eddie! Seeing your blog on my dash is always enjoyable! :D <3

I might do a fanfic with this too, but here’s some ideas and headcanons for now! Enjoy neighbor!

Howdy is often very stressed out - understandable as he’s the only neighbor with a business to run. He has a lot of trouble slowing himself down, he even talks at 50 mph! Wally, being the most helpful neighbor, noticed this early on. What started as making sure he gets to bed and feeds himself and stops to have fun eventually became caregiving for him.

Howdy nor Wally realized what was happening at first. Just that Howdy would quiet drown and get very sleepy and wide-eyed when Wally took on responsibility instead. Eddie was the one who recognized regression as regression! Wally loved the idea right off the bat - what a perfect way to get his neighbor to take time off!

Wally and Eddie looked at a catalog for baby toys in secret and ordered anything they thought Howdy would love. Howdy was certainly surprised when five entire boxes were delivered to him the next day. He opened them and was quite confused - until Eddie suggested asking Wally what they were for. There were six entire pacifiers, a whole box worth of building blocks, three cuddly blankets, and more - honestly more than Howdy would ever have gotten for himself!

Howdy called Wally, and Wally came to the shop very smug. He was swaying his hips in a “can you blame me?” way the entire time Howdy interrogated him. Wally convinced him to close up early and they went up stairs to his apartment. Wally wrapped him in a blanket (barely big enough for him) and convinced him to try one of the pacifiers. Howdy was very nervous and unsure at first, it was a little embarrassing to let himself be so relaxed and vulnerable. Being in a baby-like mindstate is so comforting, though....

Howdy did relax as the night fell, with Wally chatting at him softly as the sun set, wrapped in blankets and just settling down for a bit. He felt that same mindstate come to him, feeling safe and quiet, not needing to impress anyone or worry about selling things. Just relaxing with someone who cares for him, no responsibility or pressure over his head.

Wally doesn’t talk about memories often, but that night he reminisced about finding a baby caterpillar in an apple outside while the other little neighbors were playing. He laughed and ran his hand over Howdy’s hair, and told him that it’s his favorite memory of the few he has. He reminds Wally of that memory when he lets himself be taken care of.

Howdy was very tired and felt pleasantly foggy and warm. He doesn’t actually remember that, but that’s okay. It’s comforting to know he and Wally have a long history.

Howdy ends up really enjoying pacifiers, they’re soothing and help him relax. Building blocks are great too! It gives all four of his hands something to play with, sometimes building three towers at once.

Even if Wally isn't over that day, Howdy always sleeps with one of the baby blankets - a light blue one with fruits patterned on it. He indulges and lets himself regress every night before bed. Regression is his tool for relaxing and decompressing!

Eddie and Frank also caretake for him sometimes. They’re involved less often since it makes Wally jealous sometimes, but Wally also trusts them as babysitters! Frank reads books about butterflies to him - sometimes asking suspicious questions about caterpillar biology, which makes Howdy laugh. Eddie always does crafts or bakes with him!

Poppy also babysits! She doesn’t understand as much about regression, but she would always care for her neighbors when they need it. Howdy loves her snacks and they’re the perfect size to cuddle each other!

#agere #special delivery #sfw caregiver #sfw agere #age regression #welcome home #fandom agere #agere headcanons #sfw agereg #howdy #welcome home agere

40 notes · View notes

dearestones · 1 year

Text

Twisted Wonderland Matchup: Lilia Vanrouge

@atlas-tbh-idk-what-to-do Request: Hellooooo! I hope your day's been good :D I'd like to request a romantic character match-up for Twisted wonderland! The gender of the character can be, any, idm at all :)

Here is a basic Description of myself:

Im a blue eyed blonde person that is Genderfluid, originally afab. I'm around 6ft tall and have an over all chubby build.

Hobbies: I like to read, occasionally draw and play games (genshin impact, CoD, apex legends)

Personality: Im overall kind and a bit shy, though a bit sensitive. Though I do tend to have a more chaotic and careless side to me once I open up to others. I'm very very loud, unintentionally.

Five good aspects about me:

Kind

Patient

Sympathetic

Understanding

Smart

Five bad aspects about me:

Insecure

Easily paranoid

Social Anxiety

Don't think when I talk

Very hard headed

Dreams: I hope to one day get a medical degree and become a foresnic scientist as I've always been interested in the human anatomy

Im sorry if this is a bit long, but thank you either way! Have a cute cow to improve your day :D

After going through the description provided, I believe that you best pair well with Lilia Vanrouge!

Lilia absolutely adores you! Even though you're way taller than him, he finds you so adorable and likes the fact that you're so chubby! It's the cuteness and the allure that comes with such a build that does him in.

And speaking of cuteness! If you’re ever chatting with him online or if you’re feeling particularly down, he’ll send you pictures of cute, fluffy animals! His personal favorites are baby bats, but if you’re lucky, he might even send pictures of little dragonlings and other mythical creatures from his travels! (He may send in an ultra scary creature that should never see the light of day, but that’s mostly to keep you on your toes and for his own amusement).

Furthermore, Lilia immediately respects your pronouns and likes to take you out shopping for clothes that best represent your style and how you're feeling on certain days. Feeling more masculine? He'll definitely recommend clothing that highlights certain aspects of your body like your shoulders and your muscles to match your preferences. Feminine? Don't worry, Lilia has also collected a centuries' worth of items that could accentuate your assets. If you're falling somewhere in between? Don't worry! Lilia likes mixing and matching his wardrobe; his aesthetics can range from poppy cuteness to vampire goth, so don't worry about it.

Oh my, a gamer? Lilia himself likes to play many games as well. Perhaps that's how you met. Maybe you were in an online lobby together or playing co-op in a game! If you do play together before knowing each other beforehand, be prepared for his teasing and bouts of helpful advice from time to time. Eventually, once you get used to his ability to appear out of nowhere, he'll come to love your chaotic and careless side. He loves it when you're shy and sensitive, but he finds himself intrigued when you become comfortable around him.

And what does it matter if you’re loud? Lilia loves it when the youth are rambunctious and noisy; it adds to the atmosphere and makes him feel young again. You make him feel young again and he is simply grateful for that.

Lilia is a force of nature that can be hard to contend with sometimes. Even though he's lived for centuries longer than most mortals and he's lived lifetimes of experiences, he values you for who you are. You may be insecure and easily paranoid, but he understands that you may need time to process your experiences and emotions. He may be older than you by a large margin, but he remembers what it was like to be young and hard headed and mouthy.

Negative traits should be acknowledged and embraced because they are opportunities that people use to grow and learn from. If you ever find yourself suffering from social anxiety or in a bad place mentally, he'll be there to ground you by holding your hand or diverting other people's attention away from you. He may be tinier than you, but he can and will make a fool of himself if that means you can be more comfortable!

As for the positive sides of yourself, Lilia adores all of them! He has lived through countless wars and battles and he's witnessed all sides of man: the good, the bad, and the utterly mundane and human. He finds that your kindness and patience coupled with sympathy and understanding complements his more extraverted and rambunctious personality. You provide a different perspective to his life and give him new meaning in how to proceed further into his journey.

Lilia is also keen on having his mettle challenged! Your intelligence is also a great boon to have in a relationship! Perhaps you can share what books you like to read and he’ll happily read alongside you and give his commentary. He may be a warrior at heart, but he is also a learned scholar. What do you think he’s been doing for centuries once the war with the humans was over? He’ll debate the themes and symbols present in the books that you like reading. Once or twice he’ll (accidentally on purpose) let slip that he might have met the author when they were still alive! (Is he lying? You’ll never know).

And you’re thinking about becoming a forensic scientist? How exciting! If you’d like, Lilia can help share his expertise when it comes to human anatomy (and beastman and merfolk and the fae). Unfortunately, he can’t quite say why he knows where certain organs are and how certain body parts react when penetrated or slashed open by a cleaver. However, his enthusiasm will match yours and he’ll dig through his hoard to find whatever materials like books or even medical equipment that he might have stored in his room somewhere.

All in all, a romantic relationship with Lilia means that you’ll be living a life with adventure. He can’t guarantee and entire lifetime with you, but he will treasure every moment, every experience, every dream that you share with each other. He’s your knight and he will lay down his life just for you at this very moment.

If you want to donate a Ko-Fi, feel free https://ko-fi.com/devintrinidad.

TWISTED WONDERLAND MASTERLIST

#twisted wonderland #twst #twisted wonderland matchup #twst matchup #twisted wonderland lilia #twst lilia #lilia vanrouge #twst lilia vanrouge #twisted wonderland lilia vanrouge #character matchup #matchup #dearestones #devintrinidad

9 notes · View notes

tarmac-rat · 6 months

Note

6, 13, 17, 23 for Riley beloved!!

AH YES I SHALL THANK YOU!

6) Any flowers you associate with your OC?

Black-eyed Susans and Star Cacti! Black-eyed Susans are symbolic of survival, strength, and justice, and Star Cacti flowers represent resilience and endurance. Riley's personal favorite flower, however, is a California Gold Poppy.

13) Does your OC have a good relationship with their parents or no?

Riley had a consistently good relationship with her mother Ivy up until she split from the Bakkers when they dissolved into Snake Nation. Riley and Ivy were virtual copies of each other in appearance and personality and folks in the Bakkers used to call Riley "Lil' Ivy" as a joke when she was growing up and going through her training. They were consistently each other's partners on raids and Riley spent many years worshipping the ground her mother walked on, pretty much accepting that her path in life was going to lead to her inheriting her mother's position as head of the Bakker's scouts. When the clan dissolves (in part due to Raffen raiding and killing a good 80% of them in a surprise raid), Riley and Ivy have a huge 3-day fight regarding the Snakes and the pair of them don't talk for a good three years, only meeting back up well into a planned fix-it. They're very close overall, but with them being so similar in personality, it was inevitable that something as earth-shattering as that would cause them to be at odds with each other, especially since Riley basically saw it as her life as she'd known it ending. Riley never knew her father-- a smuggler on the Texas-Mexico-New Mexico territories named Felix Moreno-- growing up and only encountered him after actively seeking him out in 2080 when she was around 27. Felix and Riley are about as opposite you can get in terms of personality; he's very theatrical, easygoing, quick to trust, something of a wisecracker, and does not know how to keep his mouth shut when he probably should, so Riley was naturally going to not really get along that easily with him right off the bat. They warm up to each other after a while, but Riley doesn't really ever take to Felix in the way she took to Ivy, though she definitely does like having him in her life.

17) Does your OC have a pet?

Johnny Nibbles! Nibbles is a male in my canon and Riley's first ever real pet. She never really intended to adopt him, she just kinda took him in for a night and gave him half a burrito and a pile of clothes to sleep in, but then the morning came and her bleeding heart couldn't bear to kick him out. She's pretty careful about NOT letting people see him, though, since she doesn't have the money to pay a $40k penalty if someone realizes she has a pet without a license, so when people are over she relegates the cat to the ammo room and hopes against hope that people don't want to check out her guns lol. Post-Temp, Johnny and Nibbles go through some...ups and downs together, but he eventually does hold onto the cat and lets him stay in the apartment at West Wind Estates. The closest thing she ever had to a pet growing up was this one time her brother caught a king snake when they were eight and they kept it in a plastic tub and fed it scop-SPAM for a week. Ivy was NOT jazzed when she found out lol, and they were forced to release it back into the wild. Riley wanted to name it Wiggles but Kai named it Sammy (after Samurai, go figure) and because he caught it, his choice won out.

23) Is your OC religious and what religion? If it’s a fictional religion for your story please give a summary of the core teachings of their faith?

Riley isn't religious at all. The closest thing to a religious belief she subscribes to is belief in the cycle of karma and that every wrong will eventually be righted by the universe/a higher power, but there isn't an organized religion she herself belongs to. Riley didn't even realize how widespread religions in the NUS even were until she moved to Night City and started living with the very Catholic Welles family.

Thank you again for asking!

#togepies #V #My V #Riley Aldana #HEY MOM LOOK HOW HARD I CAN PROCRASTINATE *proceeds to write all this*#aldi speaks

3 notes · View notes

simonhudsons · 2 months

Text

There was nobody on Earth who could possibly list ‘teacher’ as one of Simon’s future careers. He didn’t know enough about anything, really, and he also wasn’t sure he could ever nail the strict, detention-giving demeanours of his old high school teachers. Mrs Rose, in particular, who had been his sophomore English teacher, still cut an imposing figure in Simon’s memory with her smudged lipstick and tightly wound curls. She’d been whip-smart and a fan of all the books he knew Harlow and Katie had read, but she grew relentlessly tired of the way her students, namely Simon, had failed to keep up with her. There had been countless times when he’d received a detention just for taking longer than the rest of his class to finish the chapter of Life of Pi they’d been instructed to read.

Even Kit, who often ended up in detention right beside him for mouthing off to all the teachers she thought had painted a target on her brother’s back, wouldn’t have labeled him as the kind to teach anyone anything. Although she did promise that Jenna’s future Greek god education would be his sole responsibility.

All that being said, he found himself stepping into the role of teacher today. Or maybe ‘coach’ was a more fitting word! He wasn’t good at explaining the plot of his favourite books to people, often tripping over his words and getting plot points mixed up, and he was absolutely terrible at giving directions, but baseball? Simon knew baseball.

While the other boys in his class had pandered to the true Canadian stereotype and tightened the laces on their skates at the hockey rink, Simon had obsessed over baseball instead. It was the one thing he and his father had had in common, Derek Hudson delighting in the fact that the son he’d written off as a sissy actually had one hell of a pitching arm. When Simon had hung up posters in his room of Maury Wills in his heyday, his dad had declared it hero worship instead of acknowledging that his son was starry-eyed for several reasons when it came to old photos of Wills in his Dodgers cap. Before his parents’ divorce, Simon had fond memories of spending hours on end with his dad in the back yard, his arm numb from the tremors of the ball landing in his catcher’s mitt reverberating up through his bones, his legs itchy and covered in welts during the summer when the late hour and the setting sun brought out the mosquitoes he never noticed until their bites made themselves known to him in a hot fury the next morning.

He’d never made it big in any sort of league, a disappointment his father had never gotten over, but it had never lessened his love for the sport. Even if his games were relegated to an amateur league in Central Park, he was happy to just get to play. Besides, he’d been to a few Dodgers games with his dad and heard the way the men in the grandstands yelled at the players whenever they fumbled a ball. Sensitive to criticism, Simon was just glad there were no aggressive spectators at his Sunday afternoon games.

Everyone had packed up and left by the time the August sun had turned everything in Central Park golden that day. Only Simon remained as he waved off Kenny, smiling as the man linked hands with Harvey and headed home. He stayed behind, using the toe of his cleat to push some of the sandlot dust off the pitcher’s mound as he waited for Ty.

Honestly, he’d been surprised when Ty had asked him to teach him how to play baseball. His friend’s interests lay amongst green, fuzzy balls and wired racquets. Not balls of white leather with red stitching and metal bats. But he’d been enthusiastic about the task anyway, in the same manner as he had been when Poppy had decided to read Percy Jackson after months of him pushing it onto her.

The crunch of gravel alerted him of his friend’s arrival and he adjusted the cap on his head, turning it back-to-front so he could see Ty better.

“Hey, buddy!” he said, jogging towards him so he could sling his arms around Ty in a hug. He was glad that his friend was still sans moustache. He didn’t want to hurt Ty’s feelings but he secretly thought that the other man looked much better without hair on his upper lip. Only Kirk Gibson suited facial hair like that, although he supposed if Billy ever decided to go down that road, he’d suit a moustache too. Then again, Simon thought that Billy would suit anything.

“You ready to play ball?” he asked Ty, excitement creeping into his tone as he bounced on the spot.

#thread: ty1 #ty

1 note · View note

bethestaryouareradio · 1 year

Text

Summer Bright Blossoms

“I should like to enjoy this summer flower by flower, as if it were to be the last one for me.” Andre Gide

Summer is the most beloved season of the year for most people for many reasons. It is a time for vacations, picnics, beach excursions, barbecues, and plenty of outdoor activities. For me, summer is all about the flowers and alfresco living. I finally finished my first round of weeding my landscape, cleaned my deck and patio furniture, re-potted plants, and am in the process of adding additional compost to my blooming plants.

Compost is an essential ingredient to promote blooming, improve the health of the soil, and increase the vigor of any plant. As a nutrient-rich soil amendment, compost is aptly referred to as “black gold” with its balanced mix of macro and micronutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, plus other slow-release nutrients. The organic matter in compost acts like a sponge that retains moisture around plant roots. This retention reduces the stress on plants during hot and dry periods. Teeming with beneficial microorganisms including fungi, bacteria, and earthworms, organic matter is easily broken down to create a healthy soil ecosystem that suppresses disease, resists pests, and encourages root growth. When I’m planting new specimens, I mix the compost with new soil before planting, and for established plants, like my roses, I use it as a top dressing.

Thankfully, June was cooler than expected which allowed for summer plantings to take root. Because the sun’s intensity usually brings soaring temperatures in summer, we must implement specific strategies to grow our gardens in July and August. For vegetables, heat-loving tomatoes, sweet potatoes, eggplant, peppers, and okra can still be planted. Flowers that will thrive in the heat include zinnias, sunflowers, cosmos, marigolds, Mexican primrose, calendula, daylilies, birds of paradise, and lamb’s ear. Echinacea, lavender, Black-eyed Susan, and California poppies will be stellar bloomers throughout the summer months. Continue to deadhead your roses for repeat flowering. My roses are the bedrock of my July blooms. I cut bouquets for the house for their colorful beauty and enticing perfume.

To keep your summer blooming brighter, follow these instructions:

1. Deep water to encourage deeper root growth.

2. Water early in the morning or later in the evening to minimize evaporation.

3. Focus watering on the roots, not on the foliage to prevent disease.

4. Apply a layer of mulch now before the summer heat begins. Mulching will assist in retaining moisture, suppressing weeding growth, and insulating the soil from the extremes in temperatures we are experiencing between daylight and nighttime hours. Wood chips and straw are excellent choices.

5. Use shade cloth, umbrellas, or plant sun-sensitive plants under taller plants to provide shade. Intense sunlight stresses many plants.

6. Choose heat-tolerant plants such as natives and succulents that will thrive in drought conditions. My succulents are blooming with very interesting colors, shapes, and textures.

7. Apply slow-release or organic fertilizers as necessary. Do not over-fertilize or you’ll encourage weak growth and increase the need for moisture.

8. Deadhead perennials as needed, remove wilted flowers, and trim leggy growth to encourage new and continued blooms. By doing this you will also maintain the health of your garden and keep your landscape tidier.

9. Remove weeds as they emerge. Weeds zap the water and nutrients from the plants we want to showcase. Poison oak is popping up in unexpected places. Wear gloves when pulling it out and never burn it as the oils are toxic and can cause severe allergic reactions.

10. Birds, bats, butterflies, lizards, frogs, spiders, and snakes are welcome in the garden as they pollinate, eat detrimental insects, and in the case of gopher and King snakes, devour rodents including gophers, moles, rats, and mice.

Make a field trip to your favorite nursery to see what is in bloom. Ask for advice from the experts. Buy a flowering specimen or two or three. These floral investments will spice up your porch or patio. Enjoy summer, flower by flower.

I’m excited to announce another blossoming sensation. My second book, Family Forever in my children’s book series, Stella Bella’s Barnyard Adventures, is in publication. Pre-sales are available now at a discounted price at https://www.CynthiaBrian.com/online-store. Order your autographed copies today for summer reading!

Happy Gardening. Happy Growing. Happy July!

Raised in the vineyards of Napa County, Cynthia Brian is a New York Times best-selling author, actor, radio personality, speaker, media and writing coach as well as the Founder and Executive Director of Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3. Tune into Cynthia’s StarStyle® Radio Broadcast at www.StarStyleRadio.com. Her newest children’s picture book, Family Forever,from the series, Stella Bella’s Barnyard Adventures is available for PRE-ORDERS now at https://www.CynthiaBrian.com/online-store. Hire Cynthia for writing projects, garden consults, and inspirational lectures. [email protected]

http://www.GoddessGardener.com

Read Digging Deep with Goddess Gardener, Cynthia Brian

Read Press Pass at Voice America Empowerment

Share StarStyle® Empowerment

#summergardengardencynthiabriangoddessgardenerlamorindaweeklystarstyleempowermentvoiceamericafamilyforever

0 notes

uglydollssadlycat · 5 years

Text

Bro & sis

#uglydolls #my oc #stalky-eyed bat #poppy-eyed bat #stalky #poppy

27 notes · View notes

smallraindrops-blog · 3 years

Text

Call It Calamity.

4.2k

Hypnos/Zagreus, unrequited Thanatos/Zagreus

Warnings:just some kissing and alcohol uses. No beta at all.

Hypnos just wanted to be a good brother.

A/N: This is an au but it will run pretty close along the game, just with some differences.been wanting to write for this pairing for a while but wasn't sure I could get it right. Still don't, to be honest. Oh well hope you enjoy it.

The rumor mill was alive and well, even the underworld.

But this was a new one. And not one that Hypnos really believed.

Hypnos wasn't sure what to say when he heard that Zagreus had politely but firmly rejected Thanatos.

No one had told him really what happened, every worker shade Hypnos asked, he got a different answer.

A mistake surely. Even if Zagreus had rejected Thanatos, maybe he meant as a 'Not right now' while he worked though some family issues. And darkness knows with Hades as a father, there were issues.

Hypnos tapped his quill on his ledger, trying to listen to the shade that was telling him it was a bull shark, not a tiger shark that ate him and it was a common mistake really.

"Okay, just let me cross this out." Hypnos said, not really remembering what the shade told him. He just wrote tiger with a question mark.

His eyes kept going to the pool of Styx, waiting for Zagreus to come out. It took an hour before Hypnos just gave up. He made excuses as he quickly floated to his mother.

"Mom, have you heard?" Hypnos said quietly. He went to touch one of her flowers to fidget with something but she batted his hand away. She had gotten very fond of her purple flowers, and even taken up to watering them.

Hypnos wasn't entirely unconvinced that she didn't talk to them when no one else was around.

"Have I heard of what, my child?" Nyx asked. Her eyes watched him carefully, never leaving his face.

"About Zagreus and Thanatos. I've overheard some stuff." Hypnos leaned forward to whisper, "I doubt it is true but I haven't seen either of them."

Nyx sighed, and gave him a very pointed look. "It would be best not to bother them. This is a very personal matter, my child."

Hypnos crossed his arms, not liking the look she gave him. "I just wanted to know if you knew if Thanatos was okay since he isn't talking to me right now. I mean everyone but Zagreus seemed to know how Thanatos feels about him."

"I haven't heard anything, but even if I did this would be a matter best left alone."

Hypnos pouted, "Boo, you're no fun."

She shooed him away, a slight smile on her face. "Now go back to your work, and I will see you later."

Hypnos waved goodbye, a new plan on his mind already.

💤

It wasn't often that Hypnos traveled the underworld itself. Only when he knew Charon could see him for a chat and maybe buy something.

Thankfully for him, Zagreus left a breadcrumb trail of ruin, upset shades and broken urns everywhere.

Elysium was just as beautiful as Hypnos remembered. The lushness of it made him think of his cave with the soft as a cloud grass and poppies everywhere.

Darkness, he missed his cave. And having Thanatos closer and actually being friends with his own twin.

There was a lot he missed.

However, he didn't missed the sound of Zagreus's screams of rage. He drifted into the field and he ducked when an arrow went sailing past his head.

Zagreus in battle reminded Hypnos of the storms of old, more powerful than gods yet desperate with how little time they had left. Beautiful yet terrible.

Zagreus' sword swung down on an unlucky shade and shattered it. Zagreus stumbled backward, panting and sweating. His mismatched eyes darted around, looking for the next fighter.

Zagreus didn't see the two shades behind him, with their spear at ready. Hypnos bit his cheek for a moment, he didn't want to take the spotlight from Zagreus but he already made the trip and it would be a shame if Hypnos didn't even get to talk to Zagreus.

With a snap of his fingers, Hypnos casted a sleep spell over the shades. Zagreus whirled around, surprise on his face at the sleeping shades. After a moment, they melted away without ever waking up.

"Wow." Hypnos dragged out the word and grinned when Zagreus saw him for the first time. His mismatched eyes blinked, not quite believing what he was seeing. "Just some advice, always check behind you."

For a moment, Hypnos thought he saw a flash of hurt before Zagreus' face hardened. This was new, Hypnos mused but so was his presence.

"Hypnos, has Father sent you?" Zagreus asked quietly, his fingers curled tightly on the helt of his sword.

"Oooh, no. I came on my own will, Zagreus." Hypnos waved his hand. Zagreus didn't relax, his eyes still on Hypnos.

Hypnos rolled his eyes, "I just wanted to talk, really."

Zagreus held his battle stance for another moment, his eyes studying Hypnos' face. Then he relaxed, his lips twitched into a small, tired smile and his sword rested against him. Hypnos sighed, while this wasn't the happy, polite Zagreus he knew; this was better than the battle one he just met

"Hypnos, what could be so important you need to come out here to talk to me?" Zagreus froze, "Is everything alright at the house?"

"Yes, yes everyone is fine." Hypnos held his hands up, "I would have been waiting at the house but lately you've been taking too long to die."

Zagreus scoffed, "Excuse me?"

Hypnos wagged a finger, "You used to come back so quickly, but not anymore! Now I've to go forever without seeing your pretty little face, it's so cruel Zagreus." Hypnos joked.

He didn't see the faint blush on Zagreus' cheeks. "Haha, very funny. Alright, Hypnos what can I do for you?"

Hypnos smiled nervously,"I heard a rumour. Of course, I doubt it's true. But just in case, I heard that Thanatos had… talked with you." Hypnos hoped that Zagreus would get the meaning without Hypnos saying that his twin had hit on Zagreus.

The guilty look on Zagreus' face told Hypnos everything.

"Oh. So it is true." Hypnos said. "I mean you don't mean like forever though right?"

Zagreus ran his hand through his hair, his eyes not willing to meet Hypnos' and for some reason, it made Hypnos think of a little boy who did something he was told not to do.

"Really, I thought-" Hypnos spoke but the sharp look from Zagreus cut him off.

"Yeah, so did everyone else. Everyone but me." Zagreus snapped.

"I didn't… I just…" Zagreus struggled to find the words. "I just can't, not for Thanatos, not like that."

Hypnos didn't know what to say. So he didn't say anything. For once in his life he didn't have a smartass reply.

"I'm sorry." Hypnos said finally, "I didn't realize we put this pressure on you. You know you don't have anything to feel guilty about, right?"

Zagreus shrugged, "Is this the only reason you came out?" His toes curled in the grass, leaving burn marks there. Hypnos crocked a brow, he hadn't seen Zagreus do that since they were children.

"I think I just wanted to make sure everyone was okay. I mean I know Thanatos doesn't want to talk to me anymore but I wanted to make sure he and you, of course, were alright. I just happened to find you first."

"Oh." Zagreus said softly. Almost sadly.

Hypnos frowned, he hated when he knew there was something he was missing and he didn't know what to ask or do to get the missing piece.

"You're a good brother, Hypnos." Zagreus said, trying to sound like himself again. He glanced at the chamber's door, Charon's bag gleamed in the glass. "I have to get back to this but I will let Thanatos know you were looking for him if he even shows up..."

After a moment of just studying Zagreus, Hypnos spoke. "Alrighty, but just one more piece of advice."

Zagreus turned back to look at Hypnos, his brows raised.

"I would suggest trying not to die. Crazy, I know." Hypnos said, not able to stop his lips twitching in amusement.

Zagreus laughed,"Oh fantastic advice, like always." He smiled, a real smile and not the tired, sad one he seems to always have lately. "Even if it means you will have to suffer without seeing my pretty face?"

Hypnos places his chest on his chest in mock agony. "Anything for your happiness, Zagreus."

He grinned at Zagreus' laugh. It has been while he heard Zagreus express some else behide urgency or anger.

"Oh, and here." Hypnos tossed Zagreus a small bag who caught it easily with one hand. The obels rustled noisily and Zagreus stared down at the bag.

"Are you sure? Three hundred is a lot of obels." Zagreus blinked, his face unreadable to Hypnos.

Hypnos waved the question away, "Think of this as a bonus of dealing with me taking up your time."

He yawned loudly, "I've better get back before your father notices I am missing. Good luck!"

And with a wave that Zagreus returned, Hypnos vanished.

💤

Of course, Hades noticed the exact second Hypnos abandoned his job.

After much yelling and banging his fist on the desk, Hades freed Hypnos.

He made his own escape quickly. When Hades got like this, It was best to stay out of sight until he got angry with something else.

Hypnos realized that he had missed Zagreus' return amist Hades' raging. He felt a pang of disappointment but shrugged it off. It's not like Zagreus won't be doing another attempt soon after he had some time to lick his wounded pride.

With a sigh, Hypnos returned to his much hated duty and waved forward the next shade.

💤

It was during Hypnos' napping that Thanatos finally showed up.

Hypnos tugged his sleep mask up, "Thanatos! I haven't seen you in forever. Or weeks since the whole you know what." He beamed until he saw how cold Thanatos looked at Hypnos.

"Is everything alright? I mean I heard what happened. I think everyone did. Um, forget I said that. I tried to find you but couldn't and mom wouldn't tell me where you were-" Hypnos rambled nervously.

Thanatos closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Like Hypnos was an annoyance that he wished he could be rid of. Which hurt but Hypnos would move past the hurt if it meant he could talk to his twin again.

"I need to talk to you. Alone." Thanatos said between gritted teeth.

"Are you going to kill me?" Hypnos eyed him. "Because even though you're our mother's favorite, she would be upset with you."

"Hypnos." Thanatos snapped. "Alone. Now."

"Fine! Fine. At the old hangout?" Hypnos asked.

When Thanatos vanished without another word, Hypnos rolled his eyes and murmured "Drama queen." And without even looking at the long line of shades, he followed his brother.

When Hypnos saw his old cave, he sighed happily. The bedchambers at the house were very luxurious and all but he missed this.

Thanatos stood in the middle of the field inside the cave, his arms crossed and his eyes on the river Lethe, the mist that covered the water drifted slowly, hiding the fast undercurrent under it.

Whenever someone tried to drink from the river, Hypnos had to warn them how easy it was for Lethe to pull someone under. And there were quite a few rescues he had to make. Not all of them were successful.

Hypnos floated next to his twin, he tried to decide what to say but settled on waiting for Thanatos to speak.

"Zagreus is getting closer to the surface." Thanatos said quietly, breaking the almost comfortable silence for the first time.

"So, he is." Hypnos agreed. "Once he gets a handle on the damn Satyrs, I don't think anything will be able to stop him."

Hypnos looked at Thanatos as he talked. "Hades had been leaving his desk more often."

Thanatos just nodded, the weight of the unspoken words, of their knowledge, of what hurt that Zagreus will have to face alone weighed on both brothers.

Hypnos stopped floating and stood, they were of equal height and for some reason, Hypnos felt this would be fair for both of them.

"Is this the only reason why you wanted to talk to me? Not anything else, you know like why don't we talk anymore?" Hypnos asked.

"I just don't understand." Thanatos said.

Hypnos tilted his head in confusion. "We all know why he really wants up there, Mom told us, remember? We would do the same in his place."

Thanatos shook his head, "Maybe not all of us. But that isn't what I'm talking about."

For the first time since coming into the cave, Thanatos looked at him. Hypnos was surprised by how sad he looked. There weren't tears but there didn't need to be.

"I don't understand what I don't have but you do." Thanatos said, his mouth twisted.

"Okay, now I don't understand." Hypnos said, "I don't have anything you don't. Unless you count our powers."

Thanatos rolled his eyes, like Hypnos was being dense on purpose. "Haven't Zagreus talked to you?"

"Sure, you mean about your feelings, right? He felt guilty, brother. He really did." Hypnos tapped his fingers against his belt, just to be able to touch something.

Thanatos didn't say anything for a few minutes then he sighed. "So he hasn't then."

"No we did, I found him in Elysium. We talked some." Hypnos watched Thanatos' face carefully, for any hints of what to say.

"Tell me brother, why did you, upon hearing Zagreus rejected me, seek him out?" Thanatos' eyes narrowed at him.

"I was worried! For the both of you. We all thought you guys were it, you know?" Hypnos pushed away the guilt he felt, he had no reasons for it. He never did anything to wreck Thanatos' chances. Not that he would be able to anyway.

"Oh, is that it? Do you really think I would buy that? I saw how your eyes followed him, you know."

Hypnos closed his mouth with a clink of his teeth, and both brothers stared each other down.

Hypnos crossed his arm to match Thanatos. "I have never said or done anything. I knew you cared for him, Thanatos. I wouldn't hurt you like that."

"Not even if Zagreus wanted you?" Thanatos asked.

"It is not really a problem since I can assure you that is not the case." Hypnos said dryly, not happy that Thanatos brought up the impossible.

Thanatos scoffed a laugh at him,"You're an idiot." And he stepped away, not even looking at Hypnos anymore. "I've been away from my job long enough and so have you. Goodbye, Hypnos."

"Hey-" Hypnos reached for his brother but was already gone.

Hypnos gave a shout of resentment, of hurt and kicked the grass. It didn't help the anger so he kicked again and again.

He sat down next to the river, crossed legged and head in his hands.

He loved his brother, really he did but blood and darkness he wanted to shake him sometimes.

💤

When he made it back, Hades wasn't at his desk. Hypnos' heart sank, and he just hoped Zagreus would be able to push through this escape.

Thankfully it wasn't that attempt or the one after that.

It was during Hypnos dealing with two shades, a pair of sisters, arguing over who was at fault for the cart tipping over when Zagreus' name appeared on his ledger. Next to his name, the word Redacted appeared.

Hades did it. The bastard really killed his own son. Hypnos' mouth twisted, anger burned hot in his chest. He would have to play dumb, the less Hades knew what Hypnos and his family knew, the better.

Hypnos looked over the still arguing sisters and noted down, 'killed by inability to communicate with their sibling.'

Hypnos totally wasn't projecting his own issues.

He saw Zagreus step out of the Styx. Even bloodied, Hypnos could see what his brother liked about Zagreus. Zagreus shook off the blood, and Hypnos' eyes unwillingly followed his movements.

Nope, Hypnos tore his eyes away. He didn't see anything, he told himself. Just his brother's crush, he reminded himself. Even if Zagreus didn't return Thanatos' feelings, Hypnos wouldn't do that to his brother.

"Hypnos." Zagreus greeted him and before Hypnos could respond, Zagreus shoved a bottle of nectar in his face. Hypnos grabbed it before he knew what it was and blinked at it.

"Oh for me? You shouldn't have!" Hypnos grinned. He shook the bottle gently, the liquid glittered in the candle light.

"It's my thanks for the gift you gave me before. It was a huge help." Zagreus said softly.

"Anything for you, Zagreus." Hypnos grinned. He could see a sadness that cling to Zagreus, and wondered if he should say something. His chest twisted with how helpless he felt. He wanted to take away the sadness and make sure he never felt it again.

"Do you want to go see my old hangout?" Hypnos said before he could stop himself. Zagreus perked up a little, "The cave, right?"

Hypnos grabbed Zagreus' shoulder and pulled him along for the ride. The sisters are still loudly arguing in front of the line.

💤

It was nice to return a second time. It was much calmer than the house. The house carried a heaviness to it that made it hard to call it home. And Hypnos had no plans for staying forever in that place.

Inside the cave, it was lit only by the numerous candles that floated about and the river Lethe's own light but it was enough to see most of the field inside.

Zagreus immediately began walking around, his eyes drifting from the river to candles to the little poppies dotted the land to the cottonwood that lined the cave's wall. Hypnos just watched him explore.

"This is much more calming than the house." Zagreus said as he turned back to Hypnos. "Why do you stay at the house? This seems much more like you."

Hypnos floated closer to Zagreus, "It was part of the whole deal, me and everyone else had to stay at the house. Or close to it, so Hades could 'keep an eye on us'. Charon is the only exception because he bonded too close to the Styx to stay long."

At his father's name, Zagreus sighed bitterly. "I swear, that old man causes everyone problems and for no good reasons."

"You telling me." Hypnos agreed. Normally he would try to be nicer but the word Redacted flashed into his mind. And an overwhelming sense of anger for Zagreus who just wanted to see his mother again.

"Come on, I know where the comfortable spots are." Hypnos floated toward the river, waving Zagreus along.

He and Zagreus sat close to the river, where the most plush grass grew. It took Zagreus a few minutes to settle, as if he had forgotten what it was like not to move all the time.

Zagreus's fingers dipped into the mist as Hypnos worked the cork out the bottle.

One loud pop later, and the sweet nectar was his. He took a sip from the bottle and hummed. "Thanks. Do you want some?" Hypnos wiggled the bottle, thinking Zagreus would say no like he normally did.

But Zagreus didn't this time. "Sure, thank you." He took the bottle from Hypnos and hummed at the taste.

Hypnos tried not to think about the fact Zagreus' mouth was where he was a moment ago.

Zagreus grimaced as he handed back the bottle, "I forgot how strong those are."

"Lightweight." Hypnos teased, his tone fond and Zagreus shoved at his shoulder with a laugh. He took a big sip and handed it back to Zagreus.

It's not weird if you don't make it weird, Hypnos told himself.

They passed the drink a few more times, until it was close to being empty. "Want the last bit?" Hypnos asked, feeling a slight buzz. Zagreus shook his head, his cheeks were more flushed than Hypnos.

Zagreus looked good like this, flushed and relaxed, and it took all of Hypnos' willpower to pull his eyes away.

Hydnos tossed the now empty bottle next to him and sighed. He bit his cheek, this was probably a mistake but Thanatos' words had been haunting him.

"Have Thanatos checked up on you?" Hypnos tugged at the grass, trying not to think about how close Zagreus was.

Zagreus shrugged, "Not really. He had been helping in some of the fights but he disappeared before I could talk to him."

"He had a weird conversation with me. First time in months that he talked to me and it was about you." Hypnos grumbled.

Zagreus' shoulders tensed up and he wouldn't look at Hypnos. "I have to apologize, Hypnos. I think I might have made it worse between you and Thanatos."

"Zagreus, whatever is going on with Thanatos and me has been going on for a long while. There was nothing you did to cause this rift." Hypnos leaned back on his hands. "I know he cares for you, always has. It was a weird conversation. He sounded like- like… I don't know. I can't explain it."

Zagreus said nothing to that. Hypnos noticed how Zagreus' toes curled into the grass. He almost said something about it but he didn't want Zagreus to get self conscious and stop so he kept his mouth shut.

Zagreus plucked a nearby poppy, full bloom and a vivid red. He spinned between his fingers before he turned to Hypnos who crooked a brow at him. Zagreus very carefully placed the flower on Hypnos' ear and smiled, "That is a good look for you."

Hypnos snorted, "Your highness, I do believe you're a little drunk right now." He grinned at the pout Zagreus gave him.

Zagreus simply plucked another poppy, and placed it in one of Hypnos' curls. His hand stopped and Zagreus lightly stroked his hair.

"Hypnos, would I upset you if I try something?" Zagreus asked softly.

"Probably not, you are already putting flowers in my hair." Hypnos said, alarm bells were going off in his head but he couldn't be bothered to listen.

Zagreus cupped the back of Hypnos' head, fingers buried in his curls and pulled him into a chaste kiss.

Hypnos' heart stopped for a moment and suddenly the talk he had with Thanatos came back in sharp clarity.

But all Hypnos knew at this second was how nectar tasted on Zagreus' lips and how warm the prince of the underworld felt.

Hypnos knew he was going to hate himself for this. But he did it anyway. May the fates and Thanatos forgive him, but Hypnos knew this would be the first and last time.

Hypnos pressed into the kiss, pleased at the soft gasp Zagreus gave and slowly they both deepened the kiss.

Hypnos wrapped an arm around Zagreus' waist and pulled him closer. They broke the kiss for a moment, for breath but Zagreus quickly returned.

Hypnos felt like he was drowning. Between the sweetness of Zagreus's kisses, the shared heat between them and his guilt of doing this, Hypnos was sure he might be going mad.

After somewhere between an eternity and a few minutes, Hypnos pulled away. He and Zagreus stared at each other, lips full and cheeks equally flushed.

Hypnos stared, trying to remember everything of this moment. His heart felt so full but he already could feel the cracks forming.

Zagreus was so beautiful, so unlike anything or anyone else he ever saw. Hypnos loved him for that reason alone.

"Zagreus-" Hypnos' voice cracked, "I can't, you have to understand. I really can't, not to my brother."

Zagreus shushed him, cupped Hypnos' face in his hands. "I know. You're a good brother."

And Zagreus kissed him again. Hypnos went along almost mindlessly.

"If I could, I would." Hypnos murmured against Zagreus' lips.

Zagreus pressed a quick kiss before pulling away. "You can, I'm willing to deal with whatever happens, are you?"

Hypnos hated how much he wanted to bend to Zagreus, to give in. "My brother will never forgive me.* He said weakly.

"He will, he is your brother and he loves you too. He just has a different way of showing it."

Hypnos mutely shook his head and Zagreus sighed.

"I will wait then. However long it will take." Zagreus said decidedly.

"What? Zagreus, no I can't do that to you." Hypnos looked into Zagreus' eyes as he pressed his forehead against Zagreus'. "Listen, I don't know if he and I will ever be friends again and I don't want you to lose out on something because you are waiting around for me to get my stuff together."

"I already decided. You're not the only with stuff left unfinished. I still need to find my mother and deal with my father. Will you wait for me?" Zagreus asked softly.

"Centuries-" Zagreus kissed him but Hypnos kept talking. "Millenniums. Zagreus, I didn't know this was a possibility. I thought you wouldn't even look at me twice."

"I thought you didn't notice me, Hypnos. I thought you just saw me as someone bothering you with how paperwork I must create."

"How could I not notice you, Zagreus? I just couldn't do anything about it." Hypnos said helplessly.

His and Zagreus' eyes meet, and Hypnos' heart shattered. He knew it was decided the moment they kissed, they would have to deal with the consequences of their actions. With his brother, with Zagreus' own family and everything else he couldn't think about right now.

But at least, it would be together.

This time Hypnos pulled Zagreus into a kiss.

All in due time. For now, Hypnos wanted to enjoy this time for as long as he could.

Fin

#hades hypnos #zagnos #i love them okay #hades zagreus

88 notes · View notes

nighhtwing · 3 years

Note

What flowers do you think are the bat family's favorites?

decided to do the whole fam <3

alfred: idk why but i think he'd love chamomile flowers (daisies!!) for its purpose and to like... brighten up the manor tbh and maybe also queen's anne lace

bruce: u know i think bruce would like poppies. why?? idk it's just a feeling.

dick: mostly for the color and the way it blooms like its own bouquet, i think dick would like delphinium flowers!! esp the true blue ones... and actually along those lines probably hydrangeas <3

babs: i think babs would like a good zinnia for like no reason other than the fact that they're pretty. maybe some amaryllis too

jason: not to be cliché but i think jason would like roses but not the really beautiful, delicate ones that fall apart if tended to incorrectly but the ones that grow like weeds yk?? like thorns are need and all that. i just think jason would be all for that Symbolism™ bc he totally would

cass: snapdragons!!! i think cass would like the colors and the brightness of them (also when snapdragons die they look like skulls—fun fact!)

tim: sunflowers!! he likes the way they tilt towards the sun i think he finds it interesting

steph: definitely a purple crocus, in the name itself also they're v pretty !!!

damian: damian would definitely go for smth that looks fierce as much as it's beautiful so i'd go for bird of paradise flowers... for obvious reasons.

duke: funnily enough duke's was the first one i thought of. i think he'd like black-eyed susans (wildflowers!!) for it's simplicity and the color scheme. it also means justice which is also a plus!

#batfamily #batfam #comics #dc #je réponds #la poste #ask #anonymous #soz i was gonna put pictures but i was getting lazy 🥺😭

9 notes · View notes

lupinlongbottom · 4 years

Text

Aggravating Acquaintances

Sirius Black x Reader

Summary: Being friends with James Potter was a feat many didn’t have the pleasure of experiencing. However, for (Y/N), the worst thing to happen to their friendship was meeting one Sirius Black on the Hogwarts Express their first year. To say that (Y/N) and Sirius didn’t get along would be an understatement.

Prompt: Hey! Imagine for Sirius with prompts 147 and 71? - Anon

147. “You couldn’t handle me even if I came with instructions.

71. “Are you really flirting with me right now?”

prompt list can be found here

Word Count: 3.8k

Warnings: drinking/alcohol, a few suggestive themes?

A/N: Sirius Black. That’s it. That’s the author’s note. also i really like asshole energy you know? no? idk. bantering and whatnot is a bunch of fun

Parties.

(Y/N) never cared for them, if she was being honest with herself. Never once did the idea of drinking her problems away, only to laugh and dance with her friends came to mind. While she never shied away the occasional drink, she never felt the need to have more than a few, to let her inhibitions get the best of her. But now, here she was, surrounded by a pack of bumbling drunkards in a rather crowded Gryffindor common room, wishing for the sweet release of death.

“(Y/N)!” James Potter, Gryffindor Chaser, exclaimed from across the room, practically crawling over the crowd to reach her.

“Hey Jim,” (Y/N) smiled politely, choosing to ignore the way his eyes were pleasantly glazed over. He had a habit of going too hard, too quick. “How’s the party treating you?”

“Never been better,” James said, trying not to shout. “Gryffindor won the match!” So much for not shouting. A few Gryffindor students aided in the chant. Some rogue Hufflepuff students chimed in as well.

“I know,” (Y/N) laughed, placing a hand on his shoulder. “I was watching the whole thing, remember?”

“Oh yeah,” James laughed. “Did you think Evans saw me?” His head whipped around, eyes scanning for the redhead.

“Oh she saw you,” (Y/N) said, nodding lightly. “How could she ignore the way you fell off your broom?”

“Hey!” James said, his attention drawing back to (Y/N). “Almost. I almost fell off my broom, caught myself in the end,” he laughed, “wouldn’t want to spend this night with Poppy, would I?”

“Suppose not,” (Y/N) said, taking a sip from her glass. It was mostly pumpkin juice, the scent alone was a giveaway, but one of (Y/N)’s roommates insisted on adding some firewhisky, just to shake things up. The warmth traveled to her chest with every sip. It wasn’t terribly unpleasant. “Wouldn’t want to give Evans the wrong idea about who you fancy, no?”

“I love Poppy,” James said, sighing lightly, leaning against the wall. “She really knows how to mend a broken bone…”

“What about a broken heart?” (Y/N) asked, pointing to a couple across the room. There, in the corner, Lily Evans and a Ravenclaw boy whose name escaped (Y/N)’s recollection. They looked to be awfully close, whispering sweet nothings in the midst of the crowded room.

“Why do you have to do that?” James asked, groaning ever so slightly. “Ruin my high?”

“It’s my job,” (Y/N) shrugged, taking another sip. “You know, friend code and all.”

“I don’t think that’s very friendly of you, (Y/N),” James said, eyes growing sharp.

“Look, either you saw it now or saw it later,” (Y/N) said nonchalantly. “I figured if I told you now, you’d at least have half a mind to go and try to change it, wouldn’t you?”

“I suppose you’re right,” James said, the dark look on his face contorting to one of intrigue. “Strike while the iron’s hot!”

“Exactly,” (Y/N) smiled, pushing his shoulder. “Go get ‘em, tiger.”

Without another word, James pounced across the crowded room, a faint shrieking of Lily’s name rang throughout the carpeted walls. (Y/N) laughed, noting how the girl’s emerald eyes met with the ceiling, pulling the boy dressed in blue away from James’ persistent swooning.

“Pumpkin juice? At a party?” A voice behind her chanted, nearly right next to her face.

(Y/N) turned to the sound. There, in all his glory was Sirius Black, the man she had a less than ideal share of run-ins with. They were known to butt heads, ever since their first year.

“Oh, hello Sirius,” (Y/N) said cooly. She took a large swig of her drink, nearly half the cup in one go.

“Would you like me to fetch you a juice box too? Maybe a blankie?” Sirius laughed, finding himself leaning against the wall near (Y/N).

“Would it be one of yours? Because I’ve forgotten mine all the way back home…”(Y/N) said, the fakest smile she could muster adorned to her face.

“Funny girl,” Sirius said, downing the rest of whatever was in his cup, setting the empty chalice down near his feet. “Would you want it to be one of mine?”

“And to be covered in dog hair?” (Y/N) said, nearly snorting. “Fat chance.”

“Oh come off it, (L/N),” Sirius grinned, “I’ll make it smell extra rugged, just for you.”

“Rugged how?” (Y/N) inquired, crossing her arms as best she could, drink still in hand. “Cigarettes and wet dog?”

“Exactly,” Sirius said, “extra rugged.”

“Right,” (Y/N) laughed, turning to ignore Sirius, her attention back onto James across the room. Sirius followed her eye line, watching her stare almost intently at the Gryffindor.

“Oi,” Sirius said, waving a hand in front of (Y/N)’s face. “Let him have his fun, he doesn’t need mummy around to keep an eye on him.”

“I’m not his mum,” (Y/N) said.

“Sure act like it,” Sirius said, picking at his fingernails. “Always doting on him, scolding him for every little thing—”

“I only scold him if it involves you, Sirius,” (Y/N) said, pointing an eyebrow at the grey-eyed boy. “The shit the two of you get into, I swear—”

“You shouldn’t have to scold him, you’re not his mum.”

“I literally just said I wasn’t,” (Y/N) said, growing annoyed. “I just care about him, okay? I’ve known him longer than you—thanks, by the way—so I think I owe it to myself to make sure he’s not going to kill himself—”

“Oh wow, little (L/N) pulling the ‘I’ve been his neighbor since forever, therefore I think I know everything about him’ card again,” Sirius said, his voice mocking (Y/N)’s. “Grow up, relax and let him have his fun.”

“Your impression of me is quite good, did you practice that in the mirror?” (Y/N) said, growing hot with anger, not that she’d give Black the time of day to know it.

“I think the key to a good (Y/N) impression is the shrillness in the voice,” Sirius said, nodding lightly. “Though your beautifully enchanting—but ice-cold—stare is hard to pinpoint, I’ll admit.”

“Beautifully enchanting?” (Y/N) laughed, the heat in her face not ceasing.

“Yep,” Sirius nodded, unashamed. “I figured talking about your big mouth was already pretty obvious, didn’t need to—”

(Y/N) slapped him hard against the arm.

“I should add terribly mean to the list,” Sirius mumbled, rubbing the place of contact, a slight grimace doting his expression.

“Terribly mean?” (Y/N) nearly laughed. “You’re the one saying I have a big mouth!”

“You do,” Sirius said, “not backing down from that one, never.”

“You annoy the hell out of me, Sirius,” (Y/N) said, finishing her glass. “I’m going to get another drink—”

“Allow me,” Sirius said, pressing a hand against (Y/N)’s chest, preventing her escape. He pulled his sleek wand from his back pocket, waving it ever so slightly. With ease, two—rather full—glasses found their way through the air, above the commotion of the room and into their space. “Take it,” he motioned to the still floating cup, taking a large swig of his, “I reckon a bit of actual alcohol will make you a bit more lively.”

“Please,” (Y/N) said, grabbing the glass tightly, bringing the brim to her lips. The hot burning of cinnamon met her tongue instantly. If she had a splash of firewhisky before, this might as well have been a tsunami, the liquor coating her throat. “Oh my God, how much is—”

(Y/N) let out a sputtering cough, unable to hold the liquid well. Sirius merely smiled.

“Peter’s been making them,” Sirius said, nodding to the pudgy Gryffindor across the room. “I tried teaching him how to count out his shots, but he’s still got a bit of work to go,” he took another sip, “though, makes for a hell of a punch, doesn’t it?”

“I’ll say,” (Y/N) said, eyeing the drink in her hand cautiously, “Why have you let Peter take over your usual job? Last time I came to one of these, I distinctly remember you were the one making the drinks.”

“Ah,” Sirius clicked, staring into his own cup. “Felt like I should give Peter a spin, considering he’s been nagging me about it practically all year.”

“Why’s that?” (Y/N) asked.

“Easy,” he took another sip, “being the bartender means you get all the girls practically batting their eyes at you all night,” Sirius said, grinning widely.

“Makes sense why you like the job so much,” (Y/N) said, pressing her back against the wall. “Those kind of girls can’t keep their eyes off of you.”

“So you’ve noticed?” Sirius smirked, “thought you didn’t may much mind to my life, isn’t that right?”

“O-of course not,” (Y/N) said, stammering lightly, “it’s hard to ignore the girls who throw themselves at you,” (Y/N) found herself burying her words into her cup, gulping quickly. “Hell, nearly all of my roommates can’t stop their insistent conversations about your hair—or whatever—halfway into the night. It’s exhausting.”

“What about my hair?” Sirius asked, bringing a hand up to his long locks.

“Nope,” (Y/N) shook her head, “not falling for that one. You don’t get the pleasantries of me repeating compliments to stroke your already large ego,” she shook her head again. “No way.”

“So you think it’s huge?” Sirius said, glancing down at (Y/N), that shit eating grin plastered to his face.

“Shove it.”

“Wouldn’t you like that pleasure, hm?”

“Sirius,” (Y/N) said plainly, “are you really flirting with me right now?”

“I might,” Sirius shrugged, almost unbothered.

It wouldn’t have been the first time he had done it. Sirius Black was anything if not perceptive to his surroundings, noting how his—what was hopefully an obvious joke—flirting flustered (Y/N) every so often. How he loved to push her buttons, make her squirm.

“Why don’t you go and try your luck on someone who’ll care?” (Y/N) sputtered, pointing her glass-filled hand over to a group of girls who had been staring at Sirius for so long, they might as well have been made of stone. “I’m sure you’d get a better reaction out of them, wouldn’t you agree?”

“Don’t want to flirt with them,” Sirius said, giving a polite wave to the girls across the way. One looked as if she was ready to faint. “Would rather annoy you.”

“How charming,” (Y/N) said, her voice cool as ice.

“You’re not shooing me away,” Sirius said, almost in shock. “Normally this is the part of the conversation where you promise to hex me or,” he waved his hand dramatically, “go and complain to Potter. What gives?”

“I’m drunk,” (Y/N) lied, taking another sip as if to prove her point. “Sue me.”

“If you’re drunk, then I’m the Queen of England,” Sirius laughed, his chest bobbing up and down. “There’s more to it,” he pressed a finger to (Y/N)’s cheek, pushing her head to the side, “admit it. Go on, I’m all ears.”

“What do you want me to say, Black? That I fancy your company?” (Y/N) said, almost surprised at her honesty. Perhaps the firewhisky was working a bit faster than she expected. It had been a long time since she had as many drinks as she did, but she blamed the excess drinks on the grey eyed boy standing near her.

“Fancy my company?” Sirius repeated, nearly as stunned as (Y/N). “Since when has that ever been the case?”

“Since all my friends ditched me,” (Y/N) said, staring back into her cup. “One of them went back to our dorm, a boy on each arm—Godric, I don’t even want to go back in there. I don’t know what I’m going to get myself into going back to that…”

“Rotten friends,” Sirius said, “even if they are getting laid. S’not right.”

“Figured it was either chat with you or look like a terribly sad fly on the wall,” (Y/N) said, “I chose the latter.”

“Honestly, I’m honored,” Sirius said, bowing lightly. “Truly and utterly honored to be of service.”

(Y/N) didn’t know why she had even bothered to spend another second with Sirius Black, if she was being completely honest. The entire time she had known him—first year, met on the train—he had been the constant thorn in her side. She clung to James quite a bit back then, that was something she could admit, but James acquiring another close friend, someone so unlike herself, really ground her gears. Black and (L/N), like oil and water, could coexist for a bit but never truly mix.

“You should be,” (Y/N) said, feeling herself grow a bit lighter. The alcohol, she assumed was the cause, nothing more. “I’m surprised you’re even chatting with me this long anyway,” (Y/N) fought back a yawn, “thought my perfume would scare you away, has in the past.”

“It’s grown on me,” Sirius said plainly, “better than the rubbish James’ been using to woo Lily, stinks up the entire room.”

“Tell me about it,” (Y/N) laughed, recalling the repugnant aroma that James swore up and down would win Lily over, the woman at the department store said so herself. “I told him when he bought it that it wouldn’t work, still didn’t listen.”

“He really doesn’t listen,” Sirius said, glancing over at James. He had been sulking in the corner, rejected by Lily. “But I reckon we could do him a favor.”

“A favor?” (Y/N) asked, draining the rest of her drink. “What’re you thinking?”

“Let’s go destroy that cologne,” Sirius said, pulling on (Y/N) sleeve, headed towards the dormitory. “Together. You know, since we’re friends now.”

“I never said that,” (Y/N) scoffed, following Sirius up the stairs, the lightness in her chest expanding. Sirius pulled (Y/N) into their room, conveniently empty. “Well? Where does James keep the bottle?”

“Not sure,” Sirius said, shutting the door, getting a stink eye from (Y/N), “what? I don’t want Prongs walking in here while we destroy his property.”

“Fine,” (Y/N) laughed, flinging herself onto James’ bed, rolling to the foot. She propped herself onto her elbows, head hanging over the bright red trunk at the end of the bed. “Do you think it’s in his trunk?”

“Seems like a good place to start,” Sirius said, kneeling before the trunk, hands tracing the latches. “You’re going to want to move your head, sweets,” Sirius laughed, pushing (Y/N)’s head back, “wouldn’t want to hit your pretty face, would we?”

“So you think it’s pretty?” (Y/N) smirked, pursing her lips. She could almost see Sirius’ eyes roll to the back of his head, for just a moment. “What? So you can flirt with me, but I can’t dish it back? Seems awfully silly, Black.”

“Wasn’t flirting,” Sirius said, rifling through James’ trunk.

“No?” (Y/N) giggled, rolling to her back, the top of James’ red four-poster filling her sight. “You called me pretty.”

“And you are,” Sirius said, lifting up a few books, eyes scanning the contents beneath them. “It’s the truth.”

“So that’s not considered flirting?” (Y/N) asked, growing confused.

“I call all the girls pretty,” Sirius said, smirking up at (Y/N). “Fact of life, sweets.”

“There you go again,” (Y/N) said, pointing her finger upwards, “calling me ‘sweets’! If that’s not flirting, I don’t know what is!”

“Is it?” Sirius asked, closing the trunk. A large smirk was plastered to his face.

“Holy fuck!” (Y/N) exclaimed, throwing her hands into her face. “You are so aggravating! First you’re flirting with me, then you claim that you’re not and now you’re just playing mind games with me!” (Y/N) groaned, rolling back onto her chest, face planted into the sheets. “I wish you came with instructions, for fucks sake. At least then I’d be able to somewhat understand you.”

“You couldn’t handle me even if I came with instructions, love,” Sirius said, head resting comfortably on his hand.

“What kind of a line is—”

It was then when she lifted her head, (Y/N) noticed, how close Sirius’ face was to her own. She never noticed the mole on his nose, slightly above his left nostril. Granted, she had never been this close to Sirius before to have noticed the little brown spot. Actually, now that she looked a bit closer, Sirius Black had a few other moles on his cheeks and one right above his lips. If one didn’t know any better, they’d mistake them for freckles. The sporadic placement of these little marks were enchanting, almost like a perfect constellation, unique and intriguing.

“I—uhm—you’re a little close,” (Y/N) said, not moving an inch.

“Hypocrite,” Sirius said, staying as still as a statue.

“Did—did you find the…” (Y/N) tried to find her thought, her mind wandering, finding a home in Sirius’ grey eyes.

“Cologne? No,” Sirius shook his head ever so slightly, eyes not breaking away from (Y/N)’s.

“Oh.”

“Yeah.”

(Y/N) moved her gaze upward, finding solace in the rich reds of the canopy above. In her most recent memory, she couldn’t come up with a time she felt exactly this way, let alone with Sirius Black of all people. She waited a moment before peeking back at the boy at the foot of the bed, her eyes flicking immediately back up to the canopy when she noticed Sirius’ gaze still upon her.

“Why are you staring at me?”

“You’re hard to look away from,” Sirius said, finally adjusting his position.

“Shut it—”

“No,” Sirius said, his voice almost stern. (Y/N) brought herself to turn herself back towards the Gryffindor, curious. “I said what I said.”

“You’re drunk,” (Y/N) laughed, pushing his face away, finding the bit of breathing room she created immensely calming for a moment.

“I’m not,” Sirius said, rebounding to his original position quickly, if not closer. “Are you?”

“No,” (Y/N) said honestly.

“Good.”

That was all he said. Because in the next moment, Sirius’ lips were on (Y/N)’s. The hand that held his own head up was caressing (Y/N)’s cheek, more gentle than the actions against their lips. The kiss was hot, needy, almost. The tension had snapped like a rubber band, quick and suddenly. But just as quick as it came, (Y/N) pulled away.

“Sirius what the—”

“Oh come on,” Sirius laughed, hopping up onto the trunk, seated neatly in front of (Y/N). “Don’t tell me you’ve never thought about doing that? Besides,” a hand stroked his chin thoughtfully, “you kissed me back.”

“That’s—no—Sirius!” (Y/N) was at a loss for words, the warmth that had radiated from her chest had spread to her entire body in that single motion, what once she could’ve blamed on the alcohol became very telling of her true feelings. She couldn’t deny that she didn’t kiss him back, because that would’ve been an outright lie. Only one thought rang through her mind. “Why?”

“Why what?”

“Why did you kiss me?”

“Isn’t it obvious?” Sirius asked, his grin fading. (Y/N) shook her head. “Well, you must really be thick, then,” he ran a hand through his hair, pushing the stray locks back, “well, considering our sexual tension is always so thick you could cut it with a knife—”

“Sexual tension?” (Y/N) laughed, almost against herself. “Is that what you call it?”

“I mean, sure, it started with a visceral hate for one other—first year was a rough one for that—but you can’t deny our chemistry,” Sirius said thoughtfully. “Who would’ve thought I’ve got the hots for the girl who made my blood boil every time I saw her?”

“Made? Like, past tense?”

“Of course,” Sirius nodded, “well, I suppose you make my blood boil in other ways, sweets.”

“Disgusting,” (Y/N) laughed, pushing Sirius away.

“But you could say in less ways and words that I fancy you, (Y/N),” he shrugged again, “I mean, you’re the only person in this castle who’ll call me out for my bullshit—”

“Incorrect, Remus and various other teachers do too—”

“You’re the only one who calls me out for my bullshit that I’ll listen to,” Sirius corrected, “what can I say? You don’t fawn over me or trip over yourself to get my attention. Quite frankly, you avoid me whenever possible.”

“So, you’re saying you like the chase?”

“Something like that,” Sirius laughed, placing a hand on the bed. “Not to mention that you’re bloody beautiful,” he moved his hand to touch hers, ever so lightly, “and you already get along with my mates—”

“One of them was my best friend before you trailed along, thanks,” (Y/N) said, her smirk growing. She didn’t hate the way his hand felt atop of hers.

“And I’m forever grateful for it,” Sirius said, his face softening. “Grateful for James for introducing me to the biggest pain in my ass.”

“Not the smoothest way to pick up a girl,” (Y/N) laughed.

“But it’s working, isn’t it?”

“I suppose,” (Y/N) smiled, feeling her own face relax. “For some reason.”

(Y/N) allowed herself to give Sirius another kiss, this time, one she initiated. It was softer than before, but still held every ounce of energy like the last. As if like a bucket of ice water had been poured over them, (Y/N) pulled away.

“Wait a minute,” (Y/N) pressed her hand against Sirius’ chest, as he had begun to seek the previous contact. “You let Peter make the drinks tonight.”

“And...?”

“Oh my God!” (Y/N) said, feeling a wave of realization come over her. “You were planning this all along!”

“Well—uhm—not exactly like—”

“Admit it, Sirius Black,” (Y/N) said, poking a finger to his chest, “admit that you let Peter take over your prestigious bartending duties so you could try and woo me!”

“Woo you? What are we? Fifty?”

“Sirius—”

“Alright,” Sirius laughed, pressing a kiss to (Y/N)’s nose. “I admit it. I figured tonight wouldn’t be the worst time to try to make a move, so I needed to be mobile.”

“You’re such a fucking idiot,” (Y/N) laughed, pressing her lips back onto his, resuming their previous motions.

While the two had quite a bit more to talk about after their laughter ceased—and things that involved not talking—(Y/N) grew ever more thankful that she chose to attend the gathering this evening. While Sirius still had quite the long way to make up for his previous jokes and pranks he had pulled on (Y/N) in the past—one really can’t forget the forever sticking chewing gum that plastered her robes all of second year—he figured a bit of smooth talking could glaze over any of the cracks. That, and kisses she’d be damned to forget the rest of her life. Two remedies for a sour situation.

They never did find that cologne.

General Tag List: @maralisa124 / @leighxlover / @hey-its-me-rai / @missihart23 / @biatheintrovert / @luna-xxxxx / @chocolaterumble / @why-am-i-sad-and-sleepy / @steve-thotgers / @greeneyedthief / @kitkatkl / @thelightsideoflife / @thataudreydork / @badgirlsdeaddreams / @meteora-fc

Sirius Black Tag List: @knowledgeisthebomb

if your name is crossed out, i could not tag you for whatever reason, feel free to reach out to me if that’s the case. if you would like to be removed from a tag list, send me a message!

want to be added to a tag list? hmu in the replies or ask box with what characters you’d like to be tagged with! PLEASE BE SPECIFIC ON WHAT TAG LIST YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE ADDED ON!

#sirius black #sirius black x reader #harry potter #harry potter x reader #sirius black imagines #wowie wow #check it out losers I actually wrote for Sirius Black again!!#jk you're not losers #i'm the loser for not writing for him in so long #anyway back to your scheduled fic reading #enjoy your day lovely!

284 notes · View notes

bluemocn · 3 years

Text

@thiehf asked : ∗ 64﹕ sender [ applies / touches up ] receiver’s makeup . ( from bela ! )

“ oh ... wow, ” a wave of insecurity hits her center ---- it felt strange , seeing herself in the mirror and not recognizing the girl staring back . her lips were bold , lashes curled for war & cheeks poppy - red . she felt like an alien , wide-eyed and bewildered , completely transformed by bela’s gentle strokes . not having a family was comforting some days - they could live forever inside that little crevice in her heart . she’d never have to mourn or disappoint them . they could be anything she wanted them to be , many things at once , even --- but they could never be there . she’d never get to hold them , or storm home flashing a report with straight a’s . she’d never miss her mom’s homecooked meals , or stumble trying to fit in her shoes . along with many other relics , she’d skipped that childhood phase of playing with stolen makeup , of watching your own face age and transform before a mirror . in some ways this experience was cathartic , and in others --- a reminder of the things she’d never have for herself . “ i look — … so different . " she bats her long , mascaraed lashes in awe , and cups bella’s palm within her own while never breaking out of this dazed state . " you don’t it’s too much? " was this what it was like to be seen? she’d never wondered before , she’d gone through life perfectly happy to be invisible . today feels different : an awakening of sorts .

#thiehf #✚ . ◞ * / ANSWERED. › pandora d .#i love them ur honor

1 note · View note

dantexlykos · 3 years

Text

Tagging: Dante, Daphne, Saint, Maven, Enzo, and Valkyrie

Timeline: Early September 2021

Location: Temple of Apollo

Notes: Summoning Daddy

Trigger Warning: Blood and sacrifice

@daphneonassis @mavenlockwood @saintcorvin @vclkyric @enzoxcorsetti

Dante

Everything was set. The moon was in the right position and the witching hour was upon them. At the temple of Apollo where the veil was at its thinnest the genasi accompanied by Valkyrie gathered. With painstaking dedication the runes had been etched into the very earth, checked over by any who saw fit, the ritual was set to begin shortly. Their power was charged by blood and sacrifice and to reach Thanatos it would take an offering from each of them, a bit of their own essence would be shed in order for the call to succeed. The ritual was an invitation, designed initially for any spirit or creature on the other side of the veil, the purpose was to create a window so that they six may peer through to their guest without obstruction. Each had their own reasons for this undertaking, some wanted power, others sought redemption, but Dante’s own query was attuned to the preservation of the veil. His heart’s desire burned even deeper, but such a thing would not be possible if he had no magic to speak of. Dante’s runes were etched upon his split of the circle, an old Greek incantation fell from his lips as his power moved to meld with the other’s. Genasi were not known for cooperation, their personalities were the embodiment of their magic and too often there was conflict between them. Earth clashed with air but in this they had to work in synergy while also melding the temperamental power of fire and languid motions of water and shadow. A blade of silver reflected the light of the moon as Dante drew it across his palm and outstretched his hand over the circle, blood dribbled down and pooled through the crevices they’d made in the earth towards the epicenter. “Hear us Thanatos, daimon of peaceful death.”

Daphne

As one of the youngest genasi, Daphne felt great relief in the proximity to the sea and how easy she could harness the power from it. Just far enough in the distance to resemble a blue hue, but close enough to give her peace of mind. It wasn’t necessarily out of fear that she had concerns for it, but just having that added boost would help her greatly in the summoning. Necromancy hadn’t ended up being as natural to the water genasi as she had hoped, though many sleepless nights and advice from the fellow genasi, she managed to find comfort in her version of the spellwork. She held that very version in her left hand as the horizon of the meeting place came into her peripherals, the sea winds causing the corners to crinkle and make it harder to read. At this point, it was overkill to keep reading it and instead she shoved it into the same pocket as her ingredients. Veils of tonics and dried poppies clinked together as Daphne reached the temple, uncloaking herself from the darkness and into the dim street light.[3:28 PM]Boots crunched against loose gravel before emerging onto the familiar sight, noticing Dante had already begun to get things in order. It was fitting that the earth genasi had arrived early to the location and if it wasn’t for the sheer amount of focus, Daphne might actually be a little envious that it hadn’t been herself. Though now wasn’t the time for pettiness, which revealed itself in the water genasi’s expression as she got within the limits of the circle. “I brought— ,” she began to state after giving a soft wave, then proceeded to pull the jar full of dried red petals and seed pods. There was more within the bag, but the moonlight only showed highlights of the items. A spare butterfly, just in case, and had been one in which she raised herself. Along with a few swigs of bitter wine, some mandrake root, homemade incense, and snake skins Daphne found while out at the Onassis farmland. But before she could continue, the fellow genasi emerged in her sights and that meant the starting of the ritual. Soon she was repeating after the others, hazel eyes focused on the power surging within each of them as her own blood mixed in, “We are here to offer praise, Lord of Death, and seek your wisdom.”

Saint

It was no idle task, to summon a god. Saint arrived at the temple, guided by the draw of power beginning to swell under the fullness of the moon. The time had come, and it had required preparation on the spirit genasi’s behalf. Clothed in the colour of ink, he was a formidable presence as he stepped onto the dais. While the others were mostly strangers to him, as were their intentions, Saint recognized Dante from across from him, already mouthing the words of the incantation. He stood at full height now, and his pockets were empty of trinkets— a purposeful notion that caused his upper lip lifted in a sneer as he saw the doe-eyed water genasi place her flowers and animal parts as her offering. He saw such things as an insult, curving into his segment of the circle with ease, drawing runes in shadow before bringing forth his own offering. Blood was required, but for his part, he would also gift their god something more. It would be twin witches, one of the element fire and the other water stood behind him, gripped at the scruff of the neck by a scowling werewolf; who stood as dark and sharp as the shadows that bound their arms and covered their mouths. “My offering,” he announced, his voice lifting through the dark, gravelled and commanding. He lead the witches to the edge of the circle, and he murmured the incantation as he drew a long, slender blade along their throats. Pale skin drenched crimson, staining down the front of starched white nightgowns before it pooled at their feet, making its way down to the centre of the circle. Saint tossed them forward, before bringing the tip of the knife along his own palm, squeezing to add his own blood to the garish swirl. “We bring you these offerings, this sacrifice— to beckon you to hear our call.”

Maven

There's still a part of Maven that kind of thinks this idea is batshit insane, trying to reach out to the god that gave them this power without knowing what will happen. But at the same time, Dante had made it clear her magic would be necessary to make it work, and she cannot deny the fact of being curious; of wanting to speak to Thanatos herself. She's one of the last to arrive at the temple, it seems, eyes scanning over the other genasi already around warily. Dante and Daphne are familiar, even if only by acquaintance, but the other is entirely a stranger, and she cannot help but look for Toni. Maven reaches inside the small bag around her waist, pulling out the deep blue enchanted candles she's brought, before setting them around the marked runes and lighting them with her magic. "For communication," she says, in answer to a question no one asked. This magic is still a bit new to her, but hopefully, it'll make the line of communication clearer to reach between the genasi and Thanatos. Blood and candles and runes, just like the night she became a genasi. The thought is of small amusement, as Maven pulls out a blade and cuts along the edge of her palm, allowing her blood to mix with the others. "We your loyal servants, your chosen followers, make this offering and ask for your guidance."

Enzo

Enzo reminded himself why he was doing this. A shot at meeting Thanatos, on his back, over an alter – the air genasi wasn't picky. Brushing off the idea that he would come face to face with a god, he made his way to the temple alongside Dante. The newest genasi was present; the fire witch who'd survived a hell of an ordeal. He'd yet to meet her, though this seemed to be a good time as any. He didn't say much, waiting until Maven was finished before he was rounding out the ritual. It was dangerous and presumptive to call upon a god. Whether or not he would answer would be one thing, and Enzo wasn't exactly confident. It'd get the god's attention, and the spirit witch's offering was a little violent for his own taste, and he wasn't sure what kind of attention that would bring. His own offering was less than, it seemed, as he placed the wood carving down. It acted as a channeler, and he remained silent as he used a knife to cut along the palm of his hand, mixing in his abilities with the other's. The air genasi was unsure of his own goal. Was it immortality to protect a failing heart like his? Perhaps, but there were many problems within the world, and he had little to give. "In you, the end of nature’s works is known, in you, all judgment is absolved alone. No vows revoke the purpose of our souls. Thanatos, regard our ardent prayer."

Freya

Freya was uncertain if this ritual would go over well, or whether it would be successful — a God’s moods were wispy like the wind, and did not so easily bend. But she would be damned if she let the genasi do this on their own. If something went wrong, she could save them. And even if half of them weren’t exactly fond of her, she was ready to do that for any of them. And so she stood still as she watched Dante start the ritual with the earth full of whispers as it reacted to his magic. Then she watched fondly as Daphne continued, with the strength of the sea in her back. The spirit genasi who had come to the stables was next, earning a slight frown from her side, but she did not even bat her lashes as his voice filled the air. A young woman stood in the circle she had not seen before, the fire genasi who looked as if she would go up in flames should anyone come too close. Last was the air genasi, offering his blood to Thanatos. As they worked, Freya’s magic washed over theirs like a blanket, knitting it together, and balancing it out where it was needed. They were strong, and she was the one to bring it all together. She protruded a slim dagger to pull it along her palm, balling her hand into a fist as she turned it around to let her blood drop onto the carved runes. It was the last puzzle piece, and her voice carried on the air as the ritual ended. “Thanatos, I stand here vouching for those worthy of your power. Hear their prayer, and be their guide.”

#discord thread #convo:valkyrie #convo:enzo #convo:maven #convo:saint #convo:daphne

4 notes · View notes

bisexualsforprompto · 5 years

Text

What’s in a Family?

Would you believe that I actually wanted to get through more content? This “Drabble” got a little out of hand lol. Honestly I don’t think I’ll continue this, sorry!

Thank you @abrx2002 for this amazing idea! You rock!

~~~~~

‘Playboy billionaire Bruce Wayne does it again.’ Thought Valentina Cross as she shoved her skinny jeans back on her. She looked back at Bruce who was still out like a light and sighed. She had a feeling she’d never see him again, but did she want to?

Almost a full month later Valentina cursed the rich man. She was pregnant.

Her parents would not be happy, not when she was only in her twenties. Valentina considered turning to her other family members, her grandparents would certainly tell her parents and her aunts and uncles as well, but there was one woman Valentina could always trust.

So Valentina showed up at her elder sister’s doorstep in Paris fresh off the boat from America. Only three months pregnant at the time, her sister vowed to look after her for the last six months and even take her newborn child.

But things didn’t go as planned. Some sick, cruel hand of fate dealt its cards. When Valentina was only one week away from her due date her sister went to run some errands and... never came back.

Callia Cross was pronounced dead from a car accident on the very day that Valentina went to the hospital. What felt like years later a newborn child with tufts of blue hair like her mother’s and beautiful bluebell eyes like her father’s was born. At first the doctor’s were afraid the child wouldn’t make it, but the lucky young girl did.

Valentina wasn’t so lucky.

Not even five minutes after her child was born Valentina was dead.

The unnamed baby was sent into the nursery while the doctors debated where to send her.

Valentina had no identification on her, she was a Jane Doe to everyone in Paris except her sister who couldn’t say a word unless it was to the worms.

Sabine Cheng and Tomas Dupain only wanted a child and one was sitting right before them. After years of trying to get pregnant with no success Sabine was ready to give up until she saw a small blue-eyed little girl staring at her with wide eyes as she was carted into a nearby room.

“Mother was a Jane Doe, we’ll have to send her to an orphanage or put her in foster care.” Sighed a petite doctor to her male coworker.

“It always breaks my heart with cases like these.” He responded before walking the baby into the nursery.

“Doctors Richmond and Poppy please report to the ER, code red.”

The doctors absentmindedly left the door open as they dashed past Tom and Sabine.

With shaky hands Sabine walked over to the baby girl who had never made it into the nursery. She picked her up and without a spoken word to Tom they silently made their way out of the hospital.

Sabine and Tom had underestimated the weight of having a child. They treated the baby from the hospital, who they named Marinette, as more of a burden than a blessing especially after Sabine succeeded in getting pregnant and brought Brigette Dupain-Cheng into the world.

With all the negligence her parents showed her in favor of her little sister, Marinette had a lot of free time on her hands. She was an inquisitive kid with practically nothing to do, so it was no surprise when she turned twelve, she started noticing things.

First off that she had blue eyes when her parents didn’t and Sabine had no blue eyes in her family so she didn’t even carry the gene. She also noticed that her blood type wasn’t possible when her Tom and Sabine couldn’t have possibly made AB blood.

Marinette kept digging, it took her two years but she finally figured out who her biological mother was under the noses of her “sister” and “parents”.

In a way Marinette was almost happy that Tom and Sabine weren’t related to her, they never acted like family to her. The only downside that Marinette could think of was that her mother had been categorized as a Jane Doe whose child was stolen. There wasn’t much to go on and there was no trace of who her father could be.

She was originally going to ask Max for help finding her birth father in hopes he was still alive and would want to meet his daughter, but it wasn’t possible when all that her class gave her since Lila came to the class was the cold shoulder. It was also the only thing her parents gave her, they didn’t even need Lila for an excuse to pay attention to Brigette over her.

Some days she wouldn’t even get back to the house because she was patrolling and fighting as Ladybug or cleaning up one of Chat’s messes and they didn’t even notice.

Chat was a whole other thing. After a few months of being the guardian of the miracle box Marinette, with the help of Tikki, found out that she had the power to make things better for herself. Maybe she couldn’t do anything about Tom and Sabine or her friends but she could make being Ladybug, the best part of her day, bearable for her.

She took Chat’s ring away. She wasn’t going to tolerate being sexually harassed and cleaning up after someone who was supposed to be helping any longer. She couldn’t say she was surprised to find Adrien the pacifist behind the mask. He was sad and slightly angry but he said he understood. Marinette wasn’t sure if he really did or maybe he had his own fantasy of why she had taken it away.

It was irrelevant. She should’ve known she wouldn’t last long as the sole savior of Paris especially with all the media asking about the former black cat wielder. She couldn’t survive much longer without help and Bustier’s class couldn’t be trusted anymore.

She was utterly alone. Lila ostrichsized her in class, her parents isolated her at home and she got rid of her partner. It got to the point where Marinette asked Tikki if she should give Adrien his ring back to which Plagg butted in and said no way in hell.

So Marinette did what she did when she felt alone, she researched. A big city in America sounded promising for her objective.

Kaalik opened her a portal for Gotham City. Ladybug’s mission was to find Batman or another hero and ask for something she hadn’t asked for in years: help.

It didn’t go as planned.

So there she was standing in front of a hero of Gotham, Robin, who she tied to a street light with her yo-yo.

“Are you ready to listen now?!” Marinette spat in perfect English. Robin scowled and furrowed his brows making him seem older than he actually was. Marinette was slightly annoyed that he had attacked her on sight and was acting all holier than thou on her when he couldn’t have been any older than her!

“I’m a hero from France named Ladybug, we are currently fighting a terrorist named Hawkmoth. I am the sole hero of Paris and I need some help.”

“TT. Not likely.” Frowned the boy. Marinette was about to blow a gasket when she heard a series of thuds behind her. She spun around to see the rest of the Batfamily in all their heroic glory.

‘I’m in for it now…’ Marinette thought when she realized that when the Bats saw Robin was tied up behind her they’d think she was a villain just like Robin did.

Batman stepped towards her slowly and held his hand out. Marinette looked at it quizzically.

“B you can’t be serious.” Said Nightwing.

“Yeah, that story’s obviously bullshit, we would’ve known about a crisis in Paris.” Red Hood frowned.

“We did.” Was all Batman said pressing his communicator into Ladybug’s hands, “Take this. The number for the Batcave is programmed into it. I assure you we will look into the situation. I was told by my colleague that it was nothing more than a hoax so if you’ll excuse me I have a green lantern to skin.”

“Thank you monsieur. I really mean it.” Marinette smiled blinking back tears. “Voyage.”

Ladybug placed on foot through the portal before remembering Robin. She retracted her yo-yo and stepped completely into it.

Marinette had no idea what to expect when Batman had said he would check Paris out. For all she knew the American army could be on their way.

What she wasn’t expecting was to bump into a boy the next day who looked very similar to her in facial structure. She pushed the thought away, he was only like her in stature and facial symmetry, she shared nothing else with him so it was probably just a coincidence.

He scowled at before going into Bustier’s room, she realized he must’ve been a new student.

She didn’t pay that much mind, he’d probably be a part of Lila’s web soon enough so there was no point in befriending him. She walked into the room to see her prophecy was already coming true, the emerald eyed boy was right at Lila’s desk.

She walked to the back of the class where she had been banished to. She shoved her books down before catching the conversation Lila and the new boy were having.

“So Damian, since you’re from America I bet you’ve heard of Bruce Wayne. Well…” she giggled and paused for dramatic effect, “I know him. I actually used to babysit his youngest, David.”

Damian rolled his eyes, “Unlikely as his youngest is your age and his name isn’t David.”

“Uh- I- ha ha!” Lila sputtered before laughing obnoxiously, “It seems we’re probably thinking of different Bruce Wayne’s.”

“It seems I don’t care, don’t talk to me again, got it?” Lila burst out into fake tears causing the rest of the class to glare at Damian. He simply rolled his eyes and went to the back of the class and sat next to Marinette.

“They’re like sheep.” He noted. Marinette nodded, “I think they’re dumber.” She mumbled under her breath. Damian smirked and turned to her.

“Damian Grayson.” Marinette beamed, “Marinette!”

“I think we’re going to get along fine.” He said before turning his attention to the front of the class.

A frazzled Miss Bustier ran into the class shortly after.

“Sorry class, I got a bit held up! Now I hear we have a new student!” She squinted at where Damian was sitting, “Damian why don’t you come down here and sit next to Lila?”

“The liar? No thanks.”

“Damian, that kind of behavior will not be tolerated. Marinette has been seen bullying Lila and I just want you to have a positive experience at DuPont!”

“Really? It seems to me like you’re an enabler. Marinette is perfectly capable and seems to have more brain cells than the rest of you.” Damian sneered with a ferocious protectiveness he hadn’t felt before except with his brothers and sisters.

Miss Bustier went into a flustered frenzy, opening and closing her mouth before she finally announced, “Alright class open your books to chapter three.”

“Predictable.” Damian scoffed beneath his breath.

“Thanks.” Marinette whispered.

“Don’t mention it.”

For a week Marinette and Damian’s small back and forth dialogue became increased. It made him a target for Lila but he didn’t seem to care. They’re friendship almost thrived on mocking Lila’s threats. Damian had many choice words for the flock of Lila’s followers as well. Marinette had been feeling a pull to him as if it was magic.

One night she thought it over, long and hard, could it have been miraculous magic?

“Tikki?” Marinette called.

“Yes Marinette?”

“I was wondering...I feel very connected to Damian but it’s hard to explain, it’s not like what I used to feel for Adrien, Luka or Kagami.”

Tikki sighed. “I’ve had my suspicions for awhile but this confirms it...I think Damian is your black cat. Every Ladybug and cat bond is different, more times than not it’s romantic but I think yours is platonic or even familial.”

“I guess that’s a relief in a lot of ways. Besides, dating Damian would be like dating my brother if I had one,” Marinette wrinkled her nose, “Though maybe I do…” She let out a long groan, “I wish I knew my birth father.”

“There, there Marinette. I’m sure you’ll know someday,” Tikki patted her back. “But as guardian it’s your decision to give Damian a miraculous or not, so we should focus on that. I know you’ve known him for a short time but do you think you can trust him?”

Marinette paused. Damian wasn’t an open person, in fact quite the opposite. He dodged the subject of his past, or gave her some small tidbits out of context. Damian had a good heart, that she could see, but it also felt tainted. But Marinette knew what made her a good guardian wouldn’t be stressing out over the choice or overanalyzing everything. That wasn’t how magic worked. “I think I can…”

The next night Kharaab made his debut as the new black cat. It was on the news and the Ladyblog quickly and spread like wildfire. She had given Damian a heads up beforehand, she had a feeling that when the news came out they’d have to face another akuma.

She was right. Chat Blanc, a jealous Adrien who missed his power, took hours to even make any slight headway. The moment Ladybug cast her lucky charm Chat Blanc had made a nasty gash in her stomach. Damian had trapped him out of pure rage and knocked him out. Disregarding the lucky charm which was nowhere to be found, Damian took Marinette back to the makeshift apartment he had been staying in. After detransforming, Damian consulted Plagg. The god of destruction told him that the only way she’d be saved was from a blood transfusion. Ladybug was passed out on his couch and if she detransformed it was likely that Marinette would bleed out faster and even die.

He took a test for her blood type himself, he had brought the necessary kits with him thank kwami. He quickly found out her blood type was AB, which was odd considering how rare it was and that he happened to share the same type. Though maybe that was just the luck of the miraculous...either way Damian didn’t waste time, he quickly fixed her and waited until she woke up.

“Damian?” Marinette asked groggily.

“Yes?”

“W-what happened?”

“Chat Blanc hit you, he’s currently unable to escape so I patched you up and gave you a blood transfusion, luckily we share some of the same DNA.” Marinette’s eyes lit up.

“D-Damian, Tom and Sabine...they aren’t my parents.”

“What?” Damian was taken aback.

“No...my birth mother died when I was born and I think Tom and Sabine stole me. I don’t know my birth father.”

Damian cleared his throat, “Well I guess now’s a good time to tell you that I haven’t been entirely truthful. My real name is Damian Wayne and my father is Bruce Wayne. I’m also Robin.” Marinette gaped. “Don’t look so surprised. The point is, it’s possible we are related but we probably aren’t, either way...I’d be proud to call you my sister.”

Marinette brushed a tear from her cheek, “T-thanks Damian.”

“Whatever,” He said avoiding eye contact, “Let’s go, we still have an akuma to beat.”

They made short work of Chat Blanc once Marinette found her lucky charm. She returned Adrien safely home and took Damian to her home to get Kaaliki.

“Are you going to tell your parents where you’re going?” Damian frowned as Marinette got ready to open the portal. Marinette gave him a small smile.

“T-they don’t really love me. They’ve never been my family…”

“I can get my father’s lawyers for a lawsuit. Stealing a child is illegal.”

“I know Damian, but Brigette. They love her. She’s the closest thing I’ve had to a sister even if they always chose her over me. I don’t want her to grow up alone and hating the world because her parents are out of the picture.” The dangling ‘like I did,’ that Marinette hadn’t spoken was deafening.

“If my father is yours...I’m going to face him with my blade for not giving you the life you should’ve had.”

“Thanks Damian, but if my hunch is correct whoever my father really is had no idea I existed.” Damian nodded before making a motion as if to say, ‘go ahead.’

“Voyage.”

They were standing in the bat cave. Marinette quickly undid her transformation in front of the many bats before her.

“Father, this is Marinette.” Damian introduced as he walked near his father, “You know her better as Ladybug but I believe you could also know her as your biological daughter.”

~~~~~~

Taglist

@northernbluetongue

@queen-of-the-trash-planet-tm

@luciferge

@legendaryneckjudgestudent

@interobanginyourmom

@beaversuenightly

@worlds-tiniest-spook-pastry

@mochinek0

@shamefullove

@emjrabbitwolf

@actual-disaster-human

@littleredrobinhoodlum

@elijahcoser

@daminett4life

@mochegato

#maribat #bio! dad Bruce Wayne

449 notes · View notes

mksc77 · 4 years

Text

A little World Series celebration/Halloween fic :) Hope y’all like it! 💜

"Hi, you guys," Sharon greeted as Provenza and Patrice followed Andy onto the back porch. She nodded at the bottle of wine in Patrice's hands. "Ahh, this is why we're friends. You bring gifts."

"I got red so Louie wouldn't drink half of it," Patrice murmured as she gave her the bottle. "I've gained a few pounds with all of this isolation and have been drinking more than normal, so I'm trying to cut back."

"So have I," Sharon agreed, "but tonight will have to be an exception. My nerves are already shot, and the game hasn't even started." October had been a crazy month for sports. Sharon nor Andy were basketball fans, but with a local team playing in the NBA finals, they'd watched most of the games and had been excited for a Lakers championship. And admittedly had the best sex they'd ever had afterward. The World Series had started just a few days later, and it seemed like they'd spent most of the month glued to the TV. With neither couple having ventured out in the last week or so, they'd decided that a socially-distanced, outdoor viewing of the game together would be reasonably safe.

Andy was watching the pregame coverage on TV. "Damn, I miss Vin Scully. Baseball still hasn't been the same without him."

Sharon rolled her eyes. "Oh, god, here we go. There better not have to be a seventh game, because I don't think I can handle another night of Scully mourning."

"The man was a legend!" Andy protested.

"Honey, it's been a couple of years since he retired. I think it's about time to get over it."

"Blasphemy," Andy muttered.

By the Fifth Inning, the game was looking grim. "I feel like I'm watching a little girl's t-ball game," Provenza complained.

Sharon raised an eyebrow. "You clearly never saw any of Emily's games. She was probably the only five-year-old in history to turn t-ball into a contact sport. I was actually relieved when she was a little older and decided to give up other activities to put more time into ballet."

Andy shook his head. "Shocking."

"Wait a minute, what's happening?" Provenza asked when the Rays coach trotted out to the pitcher's mound. "Surely, he's not taking out Snell? He's only allowed two hits all night!"

Andy shrugged. "I wouldn't complain. He's made our guys look like they've never held a bat before."

Provenza sipped his wine. "I'm not complaining, either, but this would have to be the dumbest call—yep, there he goes. This is about to be a gamechanger…He's putting Anderson in? He's been pathetic all month!"

"Did Cash bet against his own team or something?" Andy asked. "It's like he's trying to lose this game."

True to their prediction, Betts almost immediately hit a double down the left field line. After a wild pitch and another hit, the score had turned from a 1-0 deficit to a 2-1 lead in just a few plays.

"There are the boys I know and love," Sharon commented, finishing off her glass of wine and pouring another.

By the last inning, with the Dodgers up by two and one out away from winning the game, Provenza massaged two fingers against his chest. "I don't know if it's the wine or this game that's giving me heartburn. Do you know where my little purple pills are?" He asked Patrice.

"Yeah, in the cabinet right beside your little blue ones," Patrice answered, without hesitation.

"A simple yes would've sufficed," Provenza grumbled.

Andy laughed, and Sharon just focused on her wine glass, trying not to laugh, herself. "I hope there's some Xanax in there somewhere, too," Sharon whispered to Patrice.

"No, that's in my purse." Patrice rolled her eyes. "I'm not above crushing some into his wine glass when he leaves it unattended."

Rusty looked confused. "What's the big deal about blue pills—oh, gross," he whined, connecting the dots.

"Okay, come on, one more strike," Sharon murmured, looking back at the TV. "All right!" Everyone except Rusty jumped up and cheered, yelling and high-fiving. Rusty didn't get the baseball obsession and just watched.

"As much as I'd love to stay and celebrate, it's time to shift the focus to a different variety of balls," Provenza said, indicating for Patrice to get up. "If we don't get home soon, I really might need one of those blue pills, but we're celebrating, one way or the other."

"Do we have to hear this?" Rusty complained.

"It can't be unheard," Andy lamented. "There goes any desire I had to celebrate." Patrice's Viagra jab had been funny, but the following dialogue had been a boner-killer if he'd ever heard one.

"Ewwww, not you, too!" Rusty fled into the house before his gag reflex could be tested any further.

Sharon, a little affected by the night's wine consumption, just laughed helplessly at Provenza's eagerness to get home and Andy's and Rusty's disgust. When the Provenzas were gone, she ran a bath and got one more glass of wine. She'd expected Andy to join her in the bath, as she hadn't thought he'd been serious about his own desire to "celebrate" being gone, but when she got out and found him reading in bed, she was a little disappointed. Still wrapped in her robe, she nibbled at his ear and moved to his neck, thinking she just needed to get things started herself, but Andy shook his head. "Not tonight. I won't be able to do anything without Provenza being in my head, and that's just weird."

"Oh, come on, Andy, the Dodgers just won the World Series for the first time in decades, and in the same month as an NBA championship! When will we have this chance again?"

"I don't know, but not tonight," Andy answered dramatically.

"You can call all the shots," Sharon pleaded. "Whatever you want."

Andy shook his head, unmoved.

Sharon shrugged. "All right, fine." The question wasn't whether or not they were having sex tonight, she would see to it that they did, the question was just how to get there. Her first impulse was to reach for the navy chemise that he could never resist, but something about the situation wanted her to make it a little more challenging than that. Instead, she pulled one of Andy's Dodger's t-shirts over her head and slipped on a pair of panties she knew he loved. "I'm cleaning out my closet tomorrow, so I'm going to go ahead and rearrange some things if we're not doing anything else."

Seeing that Sharon was just in one of his old t-shirts, Andy was relieved that she wasn't going to try to seduce him, so he let his guard down. He went back to his book, but couldn't help but watch her out of the corner of his eye. Damn, those legs. They fucked him over every damn time. He admittedly quivered a bit when she stood on her tiptoes and reached for something at the top of her closet and he could see the lacy, rose-colored panties he loved for her to wear peeking out from under the hem of his t-shirt. Closing his book, his attention was now on her entirely, as he still felt safe from her trying to get him in the mood. He could just enjoy the view and leave it at that. Or not. He was done for when she bent over to put something on a bottom shelf. "All right, fine, you win. Let's do it."

Sharon turned to look at him, wide-eyed and the picture of innocence. "What? I think if I've put on an old t-shirt and am cleaning out my closet, you can assume that the moment has passed."

"Please," it was Andy's turn to beg, "whatever you want. And I'll make sure you finish, one way or the other."

Sharon pretended to think it over. "I mean, if you really want to…"

"Yes. Please. And I'll do the dishes and laundry for a week. And I'll wear that godawful chimney sweep costume for Halloween."

"Deal." Sharon bit back a smile as she pulled her t-shirt over her head. Did she know this man, or what? He was so damn easy.

The next morning, Sharon woke up in Andy's arms, which didn't happen all that often. She wasn't a cuddly sleeper, much to Andy's dismay, but she hadn't had the energy to push him off of her during the night.

"Hey," Andy mumbled, feeling her start to stir against him. Eyes still closed, he tightened his arms around her and pulled her closer to him.

"Hey." Sharon yawned and nuzzled into his shoulder. "I'm still a little weak in the knees after last night, I've gotta say."

Andy kissed the top of her head. "That makes two of us. Damn. We even scared Poppy out of the room."

MCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMCMC

On Halloween morning, Sharon was reading in the swing on the porch while Rusty studied at the table nearby. Andy walked up the back steps after working in the yard. "What do you want to do for lunch?"

Sharon looked at her watch. "It's 10:00, honey, I haven't gotten that far yet."

"It's only 10:00?" Andy wasn't adjusting to retirement very well. Being confined to the house did not suit him at all. Sharon wasn't a sedentary person, by any means, but she was better at finding things to do and setting personal goals for herself to keep her occupied than he was. She'd been exercising and meditating more than she'd ever had time for before, and while Andy worked out, he still had trouble filling his days.

"Afraid so." Sharon eyed the pumpkins lining the porch steps. "Why don't we carve the pumpkins? That'll be fun, and it'll take some time."

"Anything to distract me from Trademark Law," Rusty agreed. "I'm about to lose my damn mind."

Andy shrugged. "Sure, why not?"

"Nothing gross, Andy," Rusty warned.

Andy tilted his head. "So breasts are out of the question?"

"Mo-om!" Rusty complained.

Sharon rolled her eyes. "Both of you, stop torturing each other!" They had been driving her insane for the last few months.

A little while later, Andy was the last to finish his pumpkin. Sharon and Rusty had taken traditional approaches, but Andy had taken a different direction. "This is my general attitude toward this whole year," he grinned, turning his pumpkin around.

"Wha—Andy!" Sharon shrieked with laughter when she saw "fuck off" carved into his pumpkin. "But you're not wrong about that."

Late that afternoon, Sharon was putting the finishing touches on her Mary Poppins costume. "I can't believe I'm saying this, but I miss last year's costume arrangement," Andy lamented, referencing a bet he'd lost with his commanding officer which resulted in a terrible costume for him, but a low-cut, form-fitting dress of a costume for Sharon, which he was always on board for. There was no party this year, but they were planning to sit at the end of their driveway with their neighbors and cocktails for those who imbibed, which was about as close to a costume party as they could get. "Was there not at least a sexy Mary Poppins option?" he whined, indicating her high-necked white blouse and knee-length black skirt. "Halloween is a good excuse to get away with being revealing, but I'm getting nothing from this."

"Oh, really? I guess that makes my night a little less taxing, then." Sharon leaned closer to the bathroom mirror to apply her lipstick. Shocking no one, Andy had honed in on her ass and otherwise barely seemed to notice she was in the room. He was so full of shit. Men. She gave him a knowing look. "But you know you can always sweep my chimney any time."

#Major Crimes #Major Crimes fanfiction #Major Crimes fanfic #Shandy #mikuscfanfic

25 notes · View notes

felixfeliciswriterblog · 4 years

Text

Snapetober 2020 - Day 5: Sick/Fever

This was inspired by my main Snape x OFC Severitus fic, but you don’t need to read it to understand it or enjoy it ;)

Warnings: Snape throws up? Idk if that can bother someone. I don’t really describe it in depth or anything XD

Length: 2053 words.

THE PERKS OF BEING CURSED

During Potions class, Professor Snape normally walked from desk to desk, sneered at some so-called dunderheads for being incapable of following the instructions in the blackboard, and generally made sure as few accidents as possible occurred, especially when Neville Longbottom and Seamus Finnigan were involved. He had started off the Erumpent Potion class that way. Fifteen minutes later, he had begun to lean on the desks and walk too slowly. By mid-class, he had given up altogether and sat at his desk, pretending to correct essays even if his quill kept slipping through his trembling fingers. Draco had been stealing glances at his teacher through it all.

“Make sure Crabbe and Goyle don’t spoil the potion,” Draco whispered to Blaise, getting off his stool.

“Where are you going?” wondered Pansy, the one in charge of noting down all the changes the unfinished potion underwent.

“To the loo.”

Both Blaise and Pansy eyed him suspiciously but still gave him a nod. Without wasting time, Draco approached his professor.

“Sir?”

This close, Draco noticed two things. First, Snape’s forehead, usually knitted into a scowl, was now glinting with sweat. Second, Snape’s face was pallid, more so than usual.

“The instructions are clear, Mr. Malfoy. Read them carefully before interrupting me,” he advised, keeping his black eyes on the parchment with barely legible handwriting.

“I’m sorry, Sir. It isn’t about the potion. I need to go to the toilet. It’s an emergency.”

There was a brief pause in which Draco held his breath.

“You may go. Do be quick, Mr. Malfoy.”

“Yes, Sir. Thank you.”

Draco walked along the corridors, went past the boys’ toilets, climbed up the stairs, and reached the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom. The desks formed a U-shape inside of which the first-year students produced jets of red sparks from their wands, some more successful than others. As soon as he spotted Professor Skyrah, closely observing her students and taking notes to later grade their performance, Draco called her. That caught the attention not only of his teacher but also of a few students, now staring at him.

“I’m sorry to interrupt. Professor Snape’s got a message for you. A private one.”

Immediately, she beckoned Draco to approach her desk and cast a muffliato charm.

“Nobody can hear us now,” she assured him. “You may speak.”

“Did Professor Snape meet with the Dark Lord last night? He was crucioed, wasn’t he?”

With squinting eyes, she inquired, “Why are you asking?”

“Did he drink some potion against the cruciatus curse after-effects?” Her lips remained pursed. “I’ve been observing Professor Snape in class. He looks… dizzy. He can’t stand, is sweating, slightly shaking. I’m not a healer, but my father’s gone through that once or twice after drinking that potion. I’d say they’re side-effects.”

“Severus only had a bit of a headache this morning.”

“With all due respect, Professor, I didn’t risk lying to my Head of House just for his wife to think I’m making this up.”

“You lied to my husband?”

“I asked for permission to go to the toilet, but I came here instead.”

“You never go to the toilet mid-lesson… He must be truly sick if he didn’t catch that you were up to something.” She closed her eyes, took a big breath and smiled – it wasn’t the reaction Draco had expected from her. Everything fell into place when she drew circles with her wand and pronounced, “Expecto Patronum!”

The same crow he had met during his first Defence class with her flapped its wings in front of them. The students who had taken notice of Draco earlier were now gasping in awe. Draco couldn’t help but admire the crow with bitter jealousy; what he’d give to invoke a corporeal patronus someday, and maybe prove his aunt Bellatrix wrong and show her Malfoys were also capable of that.

“Argus, it’s Skyrah. Please, come to my classroom. I need you to watch over the students for me. It’s important.”

The crow flew away to deliver the message.

“I should get going, or Professor Snape will realize I’ve lied to him,” said Draco.

“He’ll realize anyway. There’s no other way I could have found out about his… state.”

“...Will you cover me up?”

“Should I?”

“I should receive House points. I may have just avoided a potions accident by telling you. The erumpent potion is quite dangerous.”

She smirked at his cheekiness. “Must I forget that you lied to your Potions teacher?”

“What was I supposed to do? Tell him that he looks like a ghost?”

“That wouldn’t have ended well,” she agreed, grinning lopsidedly. “Why didn’t you go to Poppy?”

He shrugged. “I have no idea if Madam Pomfrey knows anything about the cruciatus curse treatment. I figured that you, on the other hand…”

“Would have some experience,” she finished for him, not confirming it nor denying it.

With a swish of her wand, the muffliato charm was removed. She targeted a silver service bell on the teacher’s desk and pressed it with an uttered sonorus. The ringing noise was loud enough to command the attention of the entire class.

“Training time is over. I’m afraid my presence is required elsewhere,” she informed, standing up. A bunch of students made sounds of protest which became louder when they caught sight of the inseparable duo of Filch and Mrs. Norris. Skyrah gave the caretaker a thankful nod and addressed the students once again. “Next day we will discuss how to defend ourselves against gytrashes. For us to succeed, we first need to understand how the dark creature acts. Therefore, you ought to start reading on them right now, chapter five, and write down questions in case you have them. Argus will supervise the class. If you don't behave yourselves, I’ll know, and you won’t like the consequences.”

She shot a meaningful glance to the quartet of troublemakers of the class and left the classroom, Draco close behind her. He had to match his strides to her quick pace and fight the urge to roll his eyes at the portraits’ whines. Apparently, the click-clacking of her shoes had disrupted the sleep of those that were too lazy to do something other than napping. It was the same sound that alerted Draco’s classmates. When they saw it was Professor Skyrah, accompanied by Draco, whispers filled the potions classroom. Severus didn’t react until Skyrah and Draco were standing right in front of his desk. Even then, he raised his head slowly, grimacing.

“Mr. Malfoy, I see your supposedly short trip to the toilet has become an expedition of sorts. Ten points from Sl–”

“If you deduct points, I’ll give them back.” She paused to cast the muffliato charm again and have a private conversation, even if they were the center of attention. “You look horrible.”

“You’re the very definition of ‘flatterer’.”

“It isn’t the time to be sarcastic, Severus. You can’t teach in this state, much less a highly explosive potion. It is a matter of safety. Draco did well by telling me you’re sick.”

“I’ve kept the class safe. There haven’t been any incidents.”

“Pure luck.”

Sick as he felt, it didn’t escape his notice how Draco bit the inside of his cheek to keep himself from laughing.

“Did you come to scold me in front of our students?” asked Severus.

She gave him a mischievous smile and turned to face the class after canceling the effects of the muffliato charm.

“Class dismissed.”

“But we’ve almost fi–”

She cut Pansy off, “I won’t repeat it.”

Pansy and a few students – including Hermione – pouted and sighed. The majority were happy to tidy up and go, though. Draco was part of the latter group and left as soon as Skyrah thanked him. In contrast, Harry locked eyes with Skyrah, concerned, but did as the rest of his classmates after receiving a reassuring nod. The Snapes didn’t doubt that they’d be getting a visit from him after classes.

“I don’t think you have a fever,” she said, putting her hand on Severus’s forehead. He responded by leaning into her hand. Now that no students remained in the classroom, a moment of weakness was permitted, or so he told himself. “Draco mentioned you can't stand. I’ll levitate you and bring you to the Hospital Wing, all right?”

“Don’t. My stomach… I can’t handle it.”

She slithered her palm from his forehead to his cheek. The caresses were as gentle as her voice when she said, “Why did you tell me you only had a headache this morning?”

“I didn’t feel so unwell.”

“Yet when that changed, you continued with the class.”

“Interrupting it wasn’t wise. The ingredients are expensive. Now the money plus the potions the students were brewing have gone to waste. Albus won’t be pleased.”

“You’re right. He won’t be pleased to know you prioritize money over your health. You can resume the lesson another day, Severus. Lean on me now. I’ll take you to our chambers; they’re closer than the Hospital Wing.”

Along the way, he grunted and almost fell when he tried to prove he was fine enough to walk on his own. The only reason he didn’t was that he had miraculously grabbed the arm of one of the suits of armor that decorated the corridors. Thank Merlin no students were nearby... nor Minerva. His reputation as the bat of the dungeons would have suffered. Finally, she whispered the password and the door opened for them.

“Hang on, Severus. I’ll help you get into bed.”

“No. Not yet. I think I’m going to vomit.”

She would have kissed his temple if it weren’t for the urgency in his tone. Even if clumsily, they made it to the bathroom. She helped him kneel by the toilet and rubbed his back soothingly, holding his hair for him until his stomach was empty.

“I’m sorry,” he said, breathing harshly and refusing to look at her.

“For what?”

“This has been excruciatingly embarrassing and disgusting.”

“You’ve done this for me countless times, Severus. It’s okay for the roles to be reversed now and then.” By his tense shoulders, he was thinking about the miscarriage. So was she, for her voice had shaken and her hand had drifted to the place they used to feel their unborn daughter. “Can you brush your teeth?”

“Yes.”

“All right. I’ll send Poppy a message. She shouldn’t take long.”

“There’s nothing she can do. I’ve been through this before. It’ll go away after getting some sleep. The potion must have reacted poorly to my breakfast, that’s all.”

“Are you sure?” she asked worriedly, her wand ready to invoke her patronus once more.

“Absolutely.”

“All right… Do you need anything?”

“Some water, perhaps.”

So while he brushed his teeth, she summoned a glass from their kitchen and filled it with a simple aguamenti. Severus drank its water and left the glass by the sink.

Soon, he was under the silky bedsheets, surrounded by the pillows she had adjusted for him after contacting the headmaster via the school floo network to explain the situation and advise him to seek a substitute for the upcoming lessons.

“How are you feeling?” she wondered, running her hands through his bare chest. She was lying by his side, with her head on his shoulder.

“Not fine yet, but better.” Skyrah nuzzled her head into him and hooked her leg around him. “You shouldn’t get comfortable. You’ve got a class to teach.”

“I’ve got a stubborn husband to take care of.”

“I don’t need you to take care of me.”

“Too bad. I won’t move until you start snoring.”

He groaned, exasperated, though his grip on her became just a tiny bit firmer. Skyrah missed his feeble grin, too busy playing with his chest hair and kissing his scarred skin.

“I may not need you to take care of me, but I don’t dislike it.”

“I know, my snarky Potions Master,” she said, chuckling softly. If he went as far as confessing that, it could only mean he was so exhausted he could no longer control what went past his lips. “Rest now.”

He complied, thinking he owed Draco. Vomiting in front of his students would have been a fate worse than cuddling with his wife. That was a fact.

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

A/N: I probably wouldn’t have been able to post this on time if it had been betaed, so I apologize for any possible mistakes you may have encountered. I did my best.

If you liked it, you can read the main fic here: AO3, FFN.

Have a nice day, y’all! And thanks for taking the time to read this little fic :) If you’re feeling sick, remember to take care of yourself <3

#snapetober #snapetober2020 #snape fanfiction #pro snape #severus snape x oc #severus snape #draco malfoy

17 notes · View notes