#practicing emotes for future comms

[carmineflauros]

Long time no art so...

Here take this 🍑✨

[luvsavos]

life kicks me in the ribs yet again: more than likely i won't be able to get all the money i need in time for the alatreon model, so. got excited for nothing :)

[call-sign-shark]

Day 3: Engraved in the Flesh || Finn Shelby x Reader

Requested by a lovely anon 🖤

TW: Kinktober prompt- marked, canonical violence, violent sexual practice, spanking, marking kink, non-protected sex, allusion to anal

Words: 630.

Notes: This work is a part of the Peaky Kinktober Event you can find here. Comment on the event post if you want to be tagged in the future works for Kinktober. The length of each prompt is random, but it’s never less than 600 words.

The family never suspected something to be wrong with the youngest of the tribe. After all, he had been lucky enough not to know the ugly truth of war nor the physical and emotional torment of hunger or poverty. If anything, Finn had grown up under Polly’s loving wing. Even if he was accustomed with gangs violence, he never truly took part of it before his brothers deemed him old enough. Arthur, Tommy and John worked hard so that he would never had to take a bullet like they did. They wanted him to be a general, not a disposable and vulnerable soldier. When he started to hang out with the pastor’s daughter, his Aunt was delighted. All of Birmingham knew how kind and quiet Y/N was. Holy Saint among the sinners, the young woman often wandered in the gritty streets of Small Heath with a basket filled with food she usually distributed to the poorest souls. Y/N left a bright sunshine in her wake, all the darkness of the place caught in her long coal black hair. Rumors said that when she smiled, even the most wicked men couldn’t lay a finger on her, all blissed out by her beauty and her divine aura of peacefulness. The bruises on her delicate skin? She was just incredibly clumsy. That was what her father always told her! And when she wasn’t bumping or tripping, the heavy basket she carried marked the flesh of her forearms.

But when the night came and the devils danced under the pale moonlight, she disappeared through her window and ran away from home, swallowed by the dull forest nearby. Y/N hid in an old vargo that belonged to the Shelby family, guided by the weak string lights hanging at the door, and she impatiently waited for Finn Shelby to appear in the doorway with a bottle of whisky in one hand, and a red rose in the other. Then their sordid and obscene ritual started, always following the same order: He slipped the flower in her hair, its crimson and velvety petals enhancing her beauty and suiting the color of the lipstick she had stolen from her mother. Then, they made the temperature rise, hands roaming on flesh clothes flying across the vardo. Only when the bottle of whisky was empty and their arousal reaching its limits, he assaulted her tight cunt with violent and rapid thrusts. A glistening and fragile pussy that only knew his cock. No one else’s. The way her warmth and wetness wrapped him sent his soul to heaven, making his lashes flutter. He was supposed to be a nice boy. She was supposed to be a holy and virginal girl.

So why? Why were they fucking like animals each night in the woods, filling the air with moans, flesh snapping sound and sweat? Why did he bend her over and spank her with his suit’s belt — and why did she enjoy it, her love juice trailing down her thighs more and more at each new beating? Finn grunted in her mouth when he came, painting her walls white and keeping her full til the morning. That was how Y/N liked him: engraved in her flesh, and dripping from her sore holes.

“Tsss, be more careful Y/N. You’re black and blue.” Her father scolded her, eyes rolling with annoyance at his daughter’s carelessness that revealed itself through her purplish bruises on her legs, thighs and neck. Little he knew that all her skin had been painted blue, immaculate flesh turned into a masterpiece by the brush of a mad artist. Y/N was both the canva and the muse, letting Finn Shelby turned her into what their love had always been: nothing gentle but the embodiment of Sin.

If you have appreciated what you've just read please take the time to reblog and/or comment. Your reactions are the real fuel and motivation of writers.

Taglist: @emotionalcadaver @peakyswritings @mollybegger-blog @hwangrimi @munson24 @tommyshelbywhore @devotedlyshadowytheorist @stevie75 @brummiereader @triplethreat77 @sebastianstangirl01 @izzy10369 @peakyltd @dreamy-caramel @kimvolturicullen

[cemeteryspider]

DCeased: A New Hope

Dick Grayson x Jean Grey! Pregnant! Reader

Summary: In the midst of a world ravaged by the Anti-Life Equation, a grieving telepathic hero must protect her unborn child and find hope in the remnants of the Bat-Family, while forging a path toward a future worth fighting for.

Trigger Warning: Loss, Grief, Violence, Gore, Emotional Trauma, Pregnancy,

Word Count: 1.7k

Lying on your back, you practiced the deep breathing exercises Leslie Thompkins’ midwives had taught you during your frequent visits, all at Richard's insistence. You complied because you knew this baby would be your and his entire world. So, deep breathing it was. One hand rested just above your belly, the other on your chest, guiding your breaths through your nostrils to raise the hand on your belly and blowing out through your mouth.

You loved that Dick wanted to be near you at every possible moment. However, his constant tossing and turning as you tried to ignore the splitting headache was too much to bear. Eventually, you made him leave the room. That was a while ago. Alfred had just brought you a fresh washcloth for your forehead when you heard a commotion downstairs.

Alfred rushed down immediately at the noise, but it took you a moment to regain your bearings and waddle toward the living room.

At the bottom of the stairs, you froze, staring in shock as your husband, who had been so gentle only an hour ago, was now desperately trying to scratch and bite Alfred and Bruce. Almost out of nowhere, Tim managed to sneak up on Bruce, tearing a chunk out of his arm.

"Dick?" you whispered, frozen in horror as your husband noticed your presence and began to advance toward you.

He was too close for comfort, and it was clear he wasn’t the man you had sent out of your bedroom. One hand instinctively covered your stomach while the other shot into the air, a blue glow holding Nightwing back.

"Run!" Bruce shouted, and as quickly as possible, you bolted down the stairs into the Batcave just as Alfred stabbed both Tim and Dick with a machete—one of the many weapons hidden around Wayne Manor.

You stood behind Alfred and his shotgun, staring into space as Bruce spoke to Superman, discussing his plan to save the world and mentioning something he had for Damian. Before the Man of Steel arrived, Bruce explained to you and Alfred that he wasn’t going to make it, and that Damian, you, and your baby were the future of the family if you couldn’t find the others.

The briefcase in his hand was for Damian, and Alfred was given direct orders to get it to him. You were shocked. You were losing your entire family in the span of a few hours, and it wasn’t even noon yet.

There was nothing to do but watch as, despite Mister Freeze’s suit, Bruce eventually succumbed to the virus coursing through his veins. Alfred ended the call to Damian before shooting Bruce in the head. You turned away, cowering behind Alfred.

Normally, you wouldn’t be afraid of a little blood, but in the past few months, you had slowly started to edge yourself out of the fray. You stopped going on patrol and stopped helping Dick train the Young Justice team, staying behind at the cave doing intel and comms, making sure the Bat-Family would live to fight another day. After all, you were going to be a mother soon, and how could you be out fighting crime at night with a baby at home? If Dick needed to keep fighting, then so be it, but if anything were to happen to him, your baby would still have you.

Now that worst fear is coming true. Dick's lifeless body lies upstairs as you tremble on the ground, unable to keep everyone's thoughts out of your head. That’s when you felt a gentle hand on your shoulder, and you started to come back to reality.

"...breathe, Ms. Grayson, breathe. That’s right, breathe." Alfred was looking you in the eyes, and slowly you returned to the present. You managed to keep all the extra voices in your head out, for the time being.

"Will you be all right, Ms. Grayson?" he asked, truly concerned about your health.

"Yes, thank you, Alfred. I’m better now," you said, taking deep breaths as Alfred walked back into the manor.

He dragged the bodies of Dick, Tim, and Bruce down to the Batcave to say a proper goodbye, with Superman’s help. You knelt beside Dick’s masked body, holding his hand in yours. "How am I going to do this without you, darling?"

A strong hand clasped your shoulder. "It's time to go," Superman said, helping you to your feet. Alfred stood a few feet back, offering his hand to help you into the Batwing. As the jet lifted off the ground, your eyes remained on your dear husband until he finally disappeared from view.

You made it to Metropolis, where the rest of the heroes were gathering with little worry. However, that calm was shattered when an infected Giganta started booming toward the rooftop filled with your allies. Alfred started firing missiles at her while you tried to control her sweeping movements with little success.

After a few missiles, she punched the Batwing out of the air, catapulting you back into your seat as it began hurtling toward the ground. Desperately, Alfred flipped switches and pulled controls, trying to stop the plane’s freefall.

But you took control, enveloping the ship in your familiar blue glow, safely landing it on the roof adjacent to where the surviving members of the Justice League stood.

"Father?" You caught a glimpse of Damian running toward the broken and battered Batwing as Alfred helped you out of the wreckage.

"Damian, I am so sorry, son," was all Alfred could say as he opened the briefcase on the concrete roof.

With sad eyes, he looked up to you. "Dick?"

You shook your head, and in an instant, Damian’s arms were around your shoulders, pulling you into a tight embrace. You held him close, knowing that Dick and Damian had a special bond. Damian was like a little brother to you, and you felt his pain so deeply and sincerely.

"Everything will be all right," you sniffled as he pulled away and went over to Alfred, who showed him what was in the case—a brand new Batman costume, meant for Damian to wear.

You saw Superman and Wonder Woman fly off, and after a shaking boom crumbled the city around you, Black Canary—now Earth’s new Green Lantern—saved the top of the Daily Planet, where the survivors were.

Over the course of the next few days, Wonder Woman, Superman, Superboy, Flash, and Kid Flash severed the internet connection across the entire planet.

After a week, you helped the new Batman, Green Arrow, and Green Lantern get to Gotham unharmed, only to see a massive jungle surrounding what used to be your city.

"Oh, Ivy," you said, running into her arms as soon as you saw her. Your team, the Birds of Prey, had frequently assisted—and been assisted by—Poison Ivy to the point where she was basically a member. When you got pregnant, she made you different tea concoctions to soothe your aching joints and painful migraines.

"Thank the stars," she whispered, holding you closer. "I was afraid that the virus had gotten you too."

"Why’s that?" You worried about what she was going to say because the look on her face was anything but reassuring.

"Catwoman, Huntress, Batgirl, and Batwoman attacked us, Sugar Bear," Harley said, giving you a big hug and looking down at your belly. "I told Auntie Ivy not to worry, that your mama would nevea let anythin’ happen to ya."

You chuckled at Harley—some things never change, even in an apocalypse.

"Pamela, we’re looking for sanctuary for survivors," Damian cut the reunion short, and Ivy barely gave him a second glance.

"Oh, that."

"We’ve already started this conversation."

Ivy eventually agreed, as long as you would stay in her safe haven and that there would be rules and screenings for those who were let in.

You agreed because both Ivy and Damian said it would be safest for you and your baby in Gotham. Which is ironic, seeing as just last week you and Dick were looking at schools outside of the crime-ridden city.

The magically protected jungle would keep anyone who was turned out, therefore keeping everyone safe. You asked Damian to stay as well, but he said the world needed him.

With the strongest hug you could muster, you said goodbye to Damian, who said it wasn’t goodbye, that he would see you again soon.

~~~

You hadn’t expected to see another living member of the Bat-Family until, during a rare moment of sleep, your radio crackled with Ivy's voice.

"Hey, there’s someone here I think you’ll want to see."

Rubbing the sleep from your eyes, you glanced over at the crib only a few feet away. Your son was sound asleep, his little mouth open, showing off his gums.

A smile tugged at your lips as you carefully placed him in the baby wrap on your chest. His striking icy blue eyes and gummy smile were a perfect reflection of his father. It almost made you laugh. "Come on, hun, I suppose there’s someone we need to see."

Your baby let out a soft laugh, making you smile as you descended the stairs from your apartment to the ground level. Outside, children were running around, listening to Poison Ivy reassure them that they were safe within the confines of her jungle.

Harley waved at you enthusiastically and pointed toward a statue where a man in a brown leather jacket was standing, staring at it.

Your brows furrowed in recognition, and you started walking toward him. "Jason?"

He quickly turned at the sound of your voice, his eyes widening as he saw you with your baby in your arms. "You’re alive?"

Jason approached you cautiously, his gaze fixed on the little one in your arms. "And who might this be?"

His hand brushed against his eyes, wiping away tears that threatened to spill over. "Jason, this is Richard Bruce Grayson. Richard, this is your Uncle Jay."

You carefully slipped your baby out of the wrap and placed him into Jason's stiff arms. At first, he held the child at arm’s length, unsure and hesitant. But when Richard began to giggle and gurgle hysterically, Jason brought him close, holding him tenderly.

"He looks just like him," Jason murmured, his eyes never leaving your baby. "A Boy Wonder. A new hope."

[yawnderu]

Stray - Chapter II

Author's note: not a lot happening here, just pushing this chapter out of my drafts before I start writing about the MW3 campaign. Sobbed for 4 hours about the fanfic in my head after seeing spoilers💀 No spoilers in this chapter, future chapters will be tagged accordingly and having a warning so you don't get spoiled either.

''Focus.'' Ghost's British accent rung in your earpiece, his deep voice barely above a whisper as you took overwatch with a sniper rifle. He didn't have the heart to tell you he could hear your fast, hard breathing on the comms, memories of the past flooding all over while your brain is stuck visiting people who are still alive in the graveyard of your heart.

''Enemy down, LT.'' You whispered as you took down an enemy guard, your focus on the scope not faltering until you saw the body dropping, blood quickly pooling up around their body before your attention was taken by movement in the distance, immediately using the scope to see better. You could easily make out the shape of another sniper, the camouflage outdated for the season accompanied by movement, yet it didn't seem they could see you yet.

''Spotted an enemy.'' You mutter in comms, keeping them open in case you had to run or took a shot. Ghost mutters a soft ''roger'' on the line and you line up the scope to take a perfect shot, easily finding the enemy sniper's head, who isn't even looking into their scope. You take a deep breath, relaxing your body before your finger pulls the trigger, the slight recoil hitting your body, yet you're still looking to confirm the kill.

''Moving.'' You don't wait for further comms before grabbing your equipment, tactical camouflage draped over your body as you swiftly run around, laying on your stomach and examining the area. It was an easy mission— gather intel and go, the barely secured safehouse making it easier for Ghost and you to complete this and go home.

You scan the area, eyes fully focused on the surroundings, looking for any possible movement. You saw none, though you were still highly alert, focusing on making sure your Lieutenant makes it out alive. It doesn't take long before he gathers the intel and you rendezvous at the helipad, your gloved fist raised slightly as you both settle in, his bumping yours after a few seconds of staring.

You lean closer to Ghost, speaking loudly over the rumbling sound of the blades."You think we'll take down Makarov?" He gives you a side eye for a second before turning his face towards yours, hesitantly nodding.

"We got plenty of good soldiers on our side, luv. There's always a risk, but..." He seems hesitant to answer, knowing he can lay his emotions bare to you, but refusing to do so.

"'M not sure." He finally replies and you simply nod, leaning back on your seat while you look at the background get smaller the higher you go. You both know Makarov is the ultimate threat. The kingfish. A man so deadly who has no hesitation on killing people, over 30.000 deaths caused by him, and truth to be told, you're all scared you'll join the growing number.

"Bonnie!" Soap says once he's back to base, arms wrapping around your waist as he lifts you up in the air and spins you, a ritual that started out as a joke whenever you both came back from missions without the other. After over a year of knowing these men and being stationed with them for so long, you eventually develop routines together, no matter how extra and annoying they might seem.

"Played rough with the Russians?" He asked with a cheeky smirk, arm wrapped around your shoulder as you walked back to the barracks. Ghost disappeared the moment you got back, likely to unwind and have some time alone before being practically forced by all of you to go to a bar. He knows the invitation is coming.

"Not many around— Ghost did all the dirty work down there." You shrug, arm wrapped around his waist as you walk, trying your best to ignore the way his toned muscles feel over your fingers. No. Soap is like a brother to you. At least, you've been telling yourself that for the past year or so.

"Sounds like him." He seems more relaxed now, the slight nervousness he gets whenever you or Ghost go on missions without him or more reinforcements slowly dissipating, giving him room to simply enjoy himself. And enjoy himself he will, knowing Price, Gaz and him will force Ghost and you to go to a new bar near base in a few hours.

"Ya should go shower." You raise an eyebrow and look up at him, hesitantly smelling your armpit to make sure you don't smell after hours on the field, laying still in dirt and under the sun. You don't even smell that bad.

"Asshole." Soap finally lets go of you with a laugh, narrowly missing a sharp kick thrown his way, running away like the coward he is.

[bmischool]

Best Charter Schools in Houston: A Closer Look at Beatrice Mayes Institute

Finding the right educational environment for your child is a crucial decision that can shape their future. In Houston, charter schools have become increasingly popular for their innovative approaches and tailored educational experiences. Among these, the Beatrice Mayes Institute stands out as a leading institution dedicated to fostering academic excellence and personal growth. In this blog, we’ll delve into what makes Beatrice Mayes Institute one of the best Charter Schools Houston.

A Foundation of Academic Excellence

The institute places a significant focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. By integrating hands-on projects and real-world applications into the curriculum, students are not only learning theoretical concepts but also how to apply them in practical scenarios. This approach cultivates a passion for inquiry and innovation, equipping students with the tools they need to excel in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Holistic Development of Students

Education at Beatrice Mayes Institute goes beyond academics; it encompasses the holistic development of each student. The school is dedicated to nurturing not only intellectual growth but also social, emotional, and physical well-being. Character education is woven into the fabric of the curriculum, teaching students the values of respect, responsibility, and empathy.

In addition to academic rigor, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities designed to promote personal growth. From sports teams to music and arts programs, students have numerous opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills. This well-rounded approach fosters teamwork, leadership, and resilience, preparing students for various life challenges.

Community Engagement and Service Learning

One of the distinguishing features of the Beatrice Mayes Institute is its strong emphasis on community involvement. The school encourages students to actively participate in service learning and community service projects. By engaging with their local neighborhoods, students develop a sense of social responsibility and learn the importance of giving back.

The institute collaborates with local organizations to create meaningful partnerships that enhance students’ educational experiences. These initiatives help students connect classroom learning with real-world issues, fostering a deeper understanding of their role in society. As they work on community projects, students not only gain valuable skills but also build lasting connections with their peers and community members.

A Supportive and Dedicated Staff

The success of the Best Schools In Houston can be attributed in large part to its dedicated faculty and staff. The school prides itself on hiring passionate educators who are committed to creating a supportive and nurturing environment for all students. With small class sizes, teachers can provide individualized attention, ensuring that each student’s unique needs are met.

Educators at Beatrice Mayes Institute are not just instructors; they are mentors who guide students in their academic and personal journeys. This strong support system helps foster positive relationships, allowing students to feel safe and valued within the school community.

Preparing Students for the Future

As students progress through the Beatrice Mayes Institute, they are not only prepared for the next level of education but also equipped with essential life skills. The school’s emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and community involvement ensures that graduates emerge as well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges of the future.

Conclusion: Why Choose Beatrice Mayes Institute?

When searching for the best charter schools in Houston, the Beatrice Mayes Institute stands out as a top choice. With its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, holistic student development, and active community engagement, the institute provides a comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for success in all areas of life. If you are looking for an environment where your child can thrive academically while also growing as a responsible and engaged citizen, the Beatrice Mayes Institute is undoubtedly an exceptional option among the many charter schools in Houston. Explore what this remarkable school has to offer, and watch your child flourish!

[drpawansulaniya]

What is a pediatrician?

A pediatrician is a healthcare professional that focuses on the care of newborns, children, and adolescents up to the age of 18. They are qualified to diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of kids diseases, injuries, and developmental problems. Unlike adult medicine, pediatric treatment considers not just a child’s physical health but also his or her social, emotional, and behavioral well-being.

Roles and Responsibilities

Pediatricians wear many hats in their daily practice, each one geared towards ensuring the optimal health and development of their young patients:

1. Well-Child Care: One of the cornerstone responsibilities of a pediatrician is providing routine check-ups and preventive care. These visits, often scheduled at regular intervals throughout a child’s early years, allow pediatricians to monitor growth and development, administer vaccinations, and provide guidance on nutrition, safety, and overall wellness.

2. Diagnosis and Treatment: From common ailments like ear infections and colds to more complex conditions such as asthma and diabetes, pediatricians are skilled in diagnosing and treating a wide array of childhood illnesses. They may also collaborate with specialists to manage chronic conditions or complex medical needs.

3. Developmental Screening: Pediatricians are adept at identifying developmental delays or disorders early on, allowing for timely intervention and support. Through developmental screenings and milestone assessments, they track a child’s progress in areas such as language, motor skills, and social interaction.

4. Counseling and Guidance: Parenthood comes with its own set of joys and challenges, and pediatrician serve as trusted advisors to families navigating the intricacies of child-rearing. Whether it’s offering guidance on sleep patterns, discipline strategies, or adolescent issues, pediatricians provide invaluable support to parents and caregivers.

5. Advocacy and Public Health: Beyond the confines of their clinics, pediatricians play a vital role in advocating for policies and initiatives that promote child health and safety on a broader scale. Whether it’s advocating for immunization campaigns, promoting injury prevention measures, or addressing social determinants of health, pediatricians are champions for the well-being of all children.

Becoming a Pediatrician

The journey to becoming a pediatrician is rigorous and demanding, requiring a deep commitment to the health and welfare of children. It typically involves:

1. Undergraduate Education: Aspiring pediatricians begin their journey with a bachelor’s degree, usually in a science-related field, although any major is acceptable as long as prerequisite courses are completed.

2. Medical School: Upon completing undergraduate studies, students must attend medical school, where they undergo comprehensive training in the principles and practice of medicine.

3. Residency Training: After graduating from medical school, aspiring pediatricians embark on a three-year residency program focused exclusively on pediatric medicine. During this time, they gain hands-on experience in various clinical settings, honing their skills under the guidance of seasoned mentors.

4. Board Certification: Following residency, pediatricians have the option to pursue board certification through the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP). Certification involves passing rigorous exams that assess knowledge, skills, and competency in pediatric medicine.

The Impact of Pediatric Care

Pediatricians have a far-reaching impact on the health and well-being of future generations. Pediatricians establish the groundwork for a lifetime of wellbeing by delivering compassionate care, instilling healthy behaviors, and providing families with information and resources.

In a world where children’s needs are always changing, doctors remain consistent champions, committed to ensuring that every child has the chance to grow and realize their full potential. As we commemorate their achievements, let us appreciate the essential role they play in ensuring the health and happiness of our most precious resource — our children.

[anand07723]

Empowering Lives through Esperanza Speech and OT Centre: A Holistic Approach to Speech and Occupational Therapy

In a world where every individual's unique journey deserves to be heard and supported, Esperanza Speech and OT Centre stands as a beacon of hope. Nestled at the intersection of compassion and expertise, this center is dedicated to transforming lives through its comprehensive Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy services. With a particular focus on Early Learning Intervention and a commitment to individuals on the autism spectrum, Esperanza is not just a center – it's a sanctuary for growth and development.

Speech Therapy: Giving Voice to Potential:

At the core of Esperanza's mission is the transformative power of Speech Therapy. This specialized service isn't just about addressing speech impediments; it's about giving individuals a voice – a tool to express their thoughts, emotions, and aspirations. Esperanza's team of certified speech therapists works tirelessly to assess, diagnose, and treat a myriad of speech and language disorders, ensuring that each client's unique needs are met with personalized care.

Occupational Therapy: Nurturing Independence and Well-being:

Esperanza's commitment to holistic well-being extends to its Occupational Therapy services. Occupational Therapy at Esperanza goes beyond the traditional scope, focusing on empowering individuals to lead independent and fulfilling lives. Whether it's enhancing fine motor skills, promoting sensory integration, or addressing activities of daily living, the center's occupational therapists tailor interventions to nurture each client's potential and enhance their quality of life.

Early Learning Intervention: Paving the Way for a Bright Future:

Recognizing the critical importance of early intervention, Esperanza offers specialized services in Early Learning Intervention. The center's experts understand that the formative years lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning and development. Through targeted interventions and evidence-based practices, Esperanza supports children in reaching crucial developmental milestones, ensuring a solid foundation for future academic and social success.

Autism: A Specialized Approach to Support and Understanding:

Esperanza takes pride in its commitment to individuals on the autism spectrum, providing a specialized and empathetic approach to support and understanding. The center's professionals recognize the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism and tailor interventions that promote communication, social skills, and independence. Through a combination of Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and personalized strategies, Esperanza aims to empower individuals with autism to navigate the world with confidence.

Esperanza in Action - Realizing Potential:

To illustrate the impact of Esperanza's services, consider the case of Emily, a bright-eyed six-year-old diagnosed with autism. Emily struggled with communication and social interaction, making it challenging for her to connect with her peers. Esperanza's team, comprising speech therapists, occupational therapists, and early learning intervention specialists, collaborated to create a personalized plan for Emily.

Over the course of a year, Emily's progress was remarkable. Through Speech Therapy sessions, she developed effective communication skills, allowing her to express herself more clearly. Occupational Therapy interventions improved her fine motor skills, enabling her to participate in everyday activities with greater independence. The Early Learning Intervention program facilitated Emily's socialization and interaction with her peers, fostering a sense of belonging and self-confidence.

Esperanza's holistic approach not only transformed Emily's life but also provided her family with the tools and support they needed to navigate the complexities of raising a child with autism. Emily's success story is just one among many, illustrating Esperanza's unwavering commitment to realizing the full potential of every individual it serves.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on the transformative journey of Esperanza Speech and OT Centre, it becomes evident that the center is not just a service provider; it's a catalyst for positive change. Through Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Early Learning Intervention, and specialized support for those on the autism spectrum, Esperanza stands as a testament to the profound impact that a holistic approach to therapy can have on individuals and their families.

[rich-info]

Empowering Families: The Positive Impact of Family Lawyers in North Sydney

Navigating the complexities of family legal matters requires a delicate balance of expertise, compassion, and a commitment to positive outcomes. In the vibrant community of North Sydney, family lawyers play an instrumental role in guiding individuals through challenges, fostering resolutions, and contributing to the well-being of families. Let's explore the positive impact of family lawyers in North Sydney and how their dedicated services help families thrive in times of change.

Comprehensive Support for Diverse Family Needs:

Family law encompasses a broad spectrum of issues, from divorce and child custody to property settlements and spousal support. In North Sydney, family lawyers understand the diversity of family dynamics and provide comprehensive support tailored to the unique needs of each case. Whether it's assisting with prenuptial agreements, guiding through separation, or navigating complex parenting arrangements, these legal professionals offer a holistic approach to family matters.

Navigating Emotional Challenges with Empathy:

Family law matters are often emotionally charged, and in North Sydney, family lawyers recognize the importance of empathy in their practice. By providing a supportive and understanding environment, these professionals help clients express their concerns and fears openly. This empathetic approach not only builds trust but also contributes to a positive and collaborative atmosphere during legal proceedings.

Facilitating Amicable Resolutions:

While legal disputes within families can be challenging, family lawyers in North Sydney often emphasize the importance of amicable resolutions. Through alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation and collaborative law, they encourage open communication and negotiation. By fostering cooperation, family lawyers contribute to the preservation of relationships and the overall well-being of the family unit.

Protecting the Best Interests of Children:

Child custody and parenting arrangements are delicate aspects of family law, and family lawyers in North Sydney approach these matters with a focus on the best interests of the children involved. By advocating for fair and child-centric solutions, these legal professionals ensure that the emotional and physical well-being of children remains a top priority. This commitment to safeguarding the welfare of children contributes to the positive development of families even amid challenging circumstances.

Expertise in Property and Financial Settlements:

Family lawyers in North Sydney bring a wealth of expertise to property and financial settlement negotiations. They work diligently to ensure fair and equitable distribution of assets, taking into consideration the unique financial circumstances of each family. By providing guidance on financial matters, family lawyers contribute to the creation of stable and secure post-divorce environments for their clients.

Empowering Families for a Positive Future:

Beyond legal proceedings, family lawyers North Sydney play a pivotal role in empowering families for a positive future. Whether it's facilitating communication, supporting emotional well-being, or offering resources for post-divorce transitions, these legal professionals contribute to the resilience and strength of families in the community. In North Sydney, family lawyers are not just legal advocates—they are partners in helping families navigate change and build a foundation for a brighter tomorrow.

Conclusion:

In the heart of North Sydney, family lawyers serve as pillars of support, guiding families through challenges and contributing to positive outcomes. Their comprehensive, empathetic, and child-focused approach ensures that families not only navigate legal processes effectively but also emerge stronger and more resilient. In North Sydney, family lawyers are instrumental in fostering a sense of stability and empowerment within the community, proving that even in the face of change, families can thrive with the right support.

[treatmentangel]

Effective Drug Addiction Treatment in Sacramento

Introduction

The scourge of drug addiction has cast a shadow on countless lives across the United States, including Sacramento, California. However, amidst this crisis, the city offers a ray of hope through effective drug addiction treatment programs. In this article, we will explore the comprehensive and compassionate addiction treatment options available in Sacramento, designed to help individuals regain control of their lives, break free from the clutches of addiction, and embark on a path towards recovery and renewal.

The Menace of Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is a complex and often devastating issue that affects individuals from all walks of life. It causes profound physical, emotional, and psychological pain for the afflicted and their families. The good news is that recovery is possible, and the city of Sacramento has developed a range of programs and resources to help those struggling with addiction.

Sacramento's Unique Appeal

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A Fresh Start

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Conclusion

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[mazthemeh22]

Old Art Part 2 (May 2022-Dec 2022)

Here's all my old art, originally posted to Twitter, with their original descriptions! (Some pieces are grouped to save space. Newer posts are first to keep original order. Links to tags and ppl are removed. Find this post via the hashtag #MazOldArt)

12:26 PM · Dec 31, 2022 //Finished a commission for a friend-of-a-friend's birthday, featuring Scaramouche and their adorable dog. This was only a special one-off request, but in the future I hope to open comms to all! Happy Birthday!! 🐶🎂✨#digitalart #DigitalArtist #GenshinImpact//

3:14 AM · Dec 23, 2022 //Asked a friend what I should doodle, and they suggested an edgy-looking crow. Time: 1h 30 mins. #Bird #digitalart//

12:42 PM · Dec 21, 2022 //A little while ago I was asked to animate the cigar on the St Bernard emote I drew a few months back for a friends Twitch. I think it turned out pretty well considering i'm not used to animating! ^^ #animation #dog #animated / (Twitter butchered the quality but it looks way better on stream ^^)//

5:23 PM · Dec 20, 2022 //Sorry for being inactive for so long, no reason other than art block/lack of motivation. Not sure how much I plan to post going forward, so if I'm gone for a while again.. have a wonderful [insert time]! Thanks to yall who've stuck around! Have a doughnut!//

8:39 AM · Aug 27, 2022 //Also, I forgot to post the fox we did over the last few streams! I feel so much better about painting fur each time I draw a cute fuzzy being. Here's the cutie all done! 🦊🦊 #fox #digitalpainting #realism #fur #animalart #cute #DigitalArtist//

8:34 AM · Aug 27, 2022 //Finished some Emotes for Kush! Here's a couple of them: #twitch #streamer #emoteartist//

9:40 PM · Aug 17, 2022 //Here's the 'gator and (alligator-snapping) turtle I drew for /RAlgiera! Getting faster and painting things, even if I kept it a bit rough. They're friends. :3 #digitalart #alligator #turtle #krita//

12:21 PM · Aug 14, 2022 //Fanart for the fabulous iLLxbiLL on Twitch, after a massive W in Getting Over It. Don't ask what's in the bucket... #digitalart #fanart #funny #streamer #gaming #gameart//

6:32 AM · Aug 13, 2022 //Finally this lengthy practice is complete! For around 16 hours, over the course of 2 days, I practiced drawing and then painting these wild fluffy doggos on stream. I've never done this amount of continued study before.. doing p much one after the other was a feat but I managed. / I also feel a sense of triumph through seeing obvious improvement when looking at the drawings in the order I did them. However my favourites overall are 4 and 5 as they have the most clarity and accuracy, done when I had the most optimal energy and a lack of drawing fatigue. / #digitalart #wolf #wolves #realism #practice #sketching #painting #krita #art #study #artstudy//

10:43 PM · Aug 6, 2022 //Finished our beautiful happy little froggy and made an emote for Kush out of it too (oo pretty crystal-looking frog). Cheers for hoppin' in!//

5:56 AM · Aug 4, 2022 //On stream tonight I drew a friends cat named Kota, who has a funky pattern that was hard but fun to replicate. Enjoy this cutie and thanks to everyone who came to hear my voice for the first time along with the updated set up. :)//

8:23 PM · Aug 1, 2022 //Here's the Blastoise and some doodles from the stream!//

12:08 PM · Jul 29, 2022 //Wasn't sure what to draw for the stream but a friend suggested to paint a sunset so that's what I did. Not something i'm used to so required some experimenting but it went well! Also did another emote for Kush. ALSO we hit 25 followers! Thanks guys! <3//

2:57 PM · Jul 28, 2022 //Had a lovely stream where I painted a cute boopable danger noodle named Cheese. Thank for all who stopped by! #digitalart #pringles #snake #realism//

10:26 AM · Jul 27, 2022 //Thanks to everyone who came to stream today! It was a long one. XD I got a lot done. Hope to see y'all again next time! Here's what we did: / Emotes for KommissionerKush on Twitch, a random animeish girl posin', and a free doodle requested by Drachenmen.//

1:20 PM · Jul 25, 2022 //Here's my entry for the Hollow Soul DTIYS competition by GebsArt! #6ebsContest #dtiyschallenge / This was a tricky but fulfilling piece. I haven't done much digital painting before so i was learning as I went and all in all, i'm pretty proud of how it came out. I changed the original pose to showcase (ha, Sho-case) his shocking ability and make him look a little smug.//

1:47 AM · Jul 14, 2022 //Things can get very cursed when watching an /izadoodle_stream... meet King Borbius (King Borb for short,) a cross between the 2 best franchises of all time. Keep on Morbin', my minions. #Morbius #Minions//

1:13 AM · Jul 1, 2022 //A birthday gift for /itsvollx, Terra from Teen Titans! Hope you like it! #TeenTitans #Terra #Fanart//

10:54 AM · Jun 26, 2022 //Dustin Kalloy (OC) of Taluchia, a peppy young lad with a kind heart and desire to learn about the family he never knew. Now he has to face an unfortunate truth - things aren't quite as they seemed. I wrote a brief little blurb to go with this fella. Enjoy!//

2:41 AM · Jun 20, 2022 //Drawn for another viewer during /JubelNaomi's twitch stream. Thanks for the Blartspiration!//

5:04 PM · Jun 1, 2022 //Drew Saiki K (minus his accessories) to practice anime style. Tried out some cell shading and warmer colours. I like how the eyes came out. :)//

9:10 PM · May 31, 2022 //Started trying to practice painting metal. It's very hard but tried to have some fun with it, even if not perfect. The skin and lock were inspired by a random mimic painting - which then inspired the mimic. :)//

Thank you for trekking through this massive thread. Stay hydrated. :)

[no-droids]

Ch 17 was so, so, so good (thank you!!) 🥺 i am still processing. ((Edit: this turned into an essay so i Am Very Sorry in advance, there is a tldr at the end though))

First of all. We get to see Din going through it the same way sweet girl was a couple chapters ago and I love it! She’s been so clear from the start that she doesn’t want to run away from him and now Din’s getting to the point where he doesn’t want to chase her anymore because he just wants her to be physically there with him again. The second night of comms while she’s camped out at the orphanage?? “I thought this was going to be alright, but I hate it.” ??????????? i am a Puddle of Emotions no one look at me 😭

And then the way he’s so unsure about whether she hasnt begun to reconsider wanting to keep up with his bounty-hunter life now that she’s finally gotten a break if being forced to outrun a mandalorian can be really even be called a break for the first time in a year?? And he can SEE all the places she’s stopped to talk to people on this planet (his comment about the number of times the blond guy turned around to talk to her in the line? 🥺.) Din knows she’s enjoying these small encounters with people, getting to interact with a new planet and learn new things as she’s making her way through each place, and since they’re only talking at night he gets to think about it literally all day long as he follows her trail and tries to figure out what her plan is. This is truly an exercise in Din thinking nonstop about sweet girl (which ofc he does already, but like, thinking critically about what she thinks/wants/does/needs and why) and I feel like that’s causing him to slowly start to second guess himself in terms of where he would put himself on sweet girl’s list of priorities. And I wonder how much of this he’s actually considering for the first time? because it’s always him who leaves and comes back when he gets jobs — this is the first time that sweet girl has left him instead of the other way around. Sweet girl has had tons of time to think about these things, whereas Din hasn’t really had to... because it’s not the one who leaves who feels the absence most, it’s the one who’s left behind (even if just temporarily).

I can just picture Din’s increasing doubts as the chase keeps going, whether he’s worth putting up with his lifestyle and whether sweet girl wouldn’t rather have a life like the people he sees in the footprints around hers? because he knows her, knows she likes soft beds and meeting people and fresh fruit and beautiful scenery, which are all things that living on the razor crest can’t always provide except for the last one bc Din Djarin IS beautiful scenery let’s be clear and just. the ANGST. I cannot. ( a n d meanwhile sweet girl is having a breakdown thinking he wants to STOP looking and LEAVE her? As if)

So when she shuts down his tentative doubts about it on the second night she’s at the orphanage and Din starts asking questions about favorite animals and flowers and things?? 🥺🥺🥺🥺 I lost it. Din is mirroring the love and care he receives from sweet girl (and learning to tap into those emotions as he does) and I am just in awe of both his character development from ch 1 to here and your ability to show that gradual shift in your writing.

Tl;dr thank you very much for this latest chapter! I will continue to be a soft emotional little puddle for the foreseeable future, or at least until I can figure out to scrape myself off the floor and function like a human being who has not just read rough day ch 17 and promptly dissolved as a direct result🌻

okay

okay first of all ma’am/sir/friend, please do not put tl;dr’s on a fucking MASTERFUL DISSECTION LIKE THAT like I genuinely hope people read every word of what you have written because you’re so spot on about everything that I was almost taken aback JEJFJJDJFJF

I would like to say, and I need to do this in list form because you have presented so many beautiful points that I’d like to address them one by one,

1.) Din Djarin is used to being alone. Full stop. Like even with sweet girl helping out with the baby and agreeing to stay on the ship while he goes and grabs quarry, he’s gone for weeks sometimes. He is used to being by himself, to fending for himself, protecting himself, patching himself up, EVERYTHING by himself. He is the most independent self-sufficient driven bounty hunter Karga has on the payroll and he’s reliable, which is why Karga would give him four pucks at a time. Giving anyone else four pucks would mean that if they happened to die during their hunts, then more than one puck would be lost and that’s money down the drain. Din doesn’t die, he always comes back with all four bodies and he’s fucking quick about it. Him telling sweet girl “I thought this was gonna be alright” is apt, because he’s been able to exist without her and do good work while he knows she’s safe on the Crest. In fact, the only time he EVER didn’t do good work is when a) she was attacked on the Crest on Corellia, or b) when he desperately wanted to get back to her as quick as possible and he pushed himself too hard and put himself in danger (aka frozen on Hoth scene). And actually c) when he stole Grogu back from the empire and had Karga and the guild on his ass about it. Those were the only times Din had trouble doing his job. The only times he stopped looking and gave up. “I thought this was going to be alright, but I hate it” means that YES ABSOLUTELY DIN DJARIN DOES NOT LIKE STAYING PUT WHILE SHE LEAVES, even though he’s okay with going out and doing his job when she stays. Even though he’s still hunting, it’s like the roles have been reversed. She’s understanding his side, and he’s understanding her side. It’s been 4 days and he hates it, so imagine weeks or months of that. Not being able to move or chase after her either, just hanging out on the crest with Grogu and waiting to see if she’ll be able to make it back. Which

2.) makes it hurt just a lil more in that wonderful delicious angsty way when he actually asks if she wants this life. On Naboo, he didn’t know where she went or where the kid was—he didn’t know if they were in danger, if she was safe. He said he’d rip the galaxy apart to find her if she ever disappeared like that again. But... she’d be safe on Sanctuary II. This is different, and just like you said, he’s had multiple days where all he did was try to think like her. Get in her head, predict her. Understand her more than he’s ever attempted to do before, in a NECESSARY capacity, like he would a bounty he’s hunting. Din Djarin is used to being alone. He’s used to being silent and that’s how connections are severed before they can even be established. His only practice at empathy was through his job, a job that he is very very good at, but it was never enough to get him to stop looking. He would never be able to empathize enough to ask if the bounty wanted him to stop looking for them. Even with the baby, he turned him in at first and then let the guilt eat him alive before going back to save him. So, if you couple that with his true connection to sweet girl, the natural empathy he has for her and the kid (him immediately following her after he accidentally snapped at her on the Crest and apologizing) and Din is now TRULY beginning to understand her on a level he’s never experienced with another person

3.) BUT!!! Even though he “needed to ask” (meaning he understood enough to know that asking the question was necessary) he started out the entire conversation by admitting he doesn’t think he could do it. Before ever telling her what specifically he doesn’t think he could do, he already knows this about himself and says it flat out. I don’t think I could. Even if you asked me to, even if you said you’d be happier if I did, even if you told me right now that it’s what you wanted, I don’t think I could ever stop looking. And a lot of the turmoil he experiences is because of that. I make you sleep on the floor. I teach you to fight when you just want to look at waterfalls. I do all these things that you’d never willingly do yourself, and I’m a bad person BECAUSE I still want you to always be here with me in spite of all that.

4.) Meanwhile sweet girl just has no fucking clue all this is happening and it seems to come out of nowhere, all she knows is that he’s been in the city when he should’ve caught up to her days ago. She’s out experiencing things and meeting new people and yet she always comes back to Din and the baby and how much they should be here with her. She tries to come up with clever ways to outthink him but she also offers to give her coordinates to him practically every single night. Her wanting to be with him so bad but trying to hold out (“ask me again tomorrow”) while Din is also wanting to be with her so bad and also trying to hold out (“find her again tomorrow”) 🥺

So yeah basically in conclusion I love them together and they’re so different but they make each other somehow both stronger and softer in so many ways and yeah u mighta heard of DD/LG u kinky fucks but lemme present to u DD/SG

[xxwritemeastoryxx]

Unintended Target

Author: xxwritemeastoryxx

Pairings: Bucky Barnes x Reader, Avengers x Reader

Request: Hellus can I have a Bucky Barnes angst where you're dating and like you get hurt really bad on a mission because you tried protecting him and he just cannot stop crying while you're being treated. Steve like literally has to hold him through it. Ending in fluff. Sorry for so many details ahahaha! -Anon

Word Count:

Warnings: Canon typical violence, mentions of blood, a bit of angst

Author’s Note: We've reached the ending of the first week of May Madness! And welcome to my first one shot for the MCU! But you know me. I do hope you guys enjoy

Feedback gives me life and motivation for future things. ♥

Y/N never believed that she’d ever be able to run as fast as she had. Her heart pounded in her chest as she raced against time to get across the property in time. The sound of her boots hitting the ground had been lost to the sounds of gunfire that surrounded her.

She and the rest of the Avengers were dealing with the remnants of a hydra base. What was supposed to be a quick in and out mission seemed to take a turn. There was more manpower than they expected and it was taking longer just to clear the property.

At some point during the fight, she’d lost her earpiece making it difficult to keep in contact with the others. The others knew she could handle herself, even though they were currently trying to find her among the mess that was being created. She had been expecting to meet at the rendezvous spot with a smirk on her face with all the files she needed in her hand.

At least that had been the plan. But after her eyes had scanned one of the files, she dropped the file and began running out of the building. Hydra had a new plan alright. And it was that plan alone that had caused fear to course through her, wanting-more like needing-to be on the opposite side of the property.

“Anyone have eyes on Y/N yet?” Bucky called out as he took down another member of Hydra.

Bucky hated that Y/N currently couldn’t be reached. While he had trained with her plenty of times and knew that she was able to take care of herself, he didn’t know where she was at. He didn’t know if she was injured or having any issues. His girlfriend could easily wipe the floor with him, but as close as they were, he was worried.

She’s not in the west wing anymore. Bucky heard Natasha’s voice over the comms. She left a nice trail in the process for us though.

Natasha was trying to make light of the situation. If she could get Bucky to bring down his worry in the slightest, she was going to attempt it. Together the two were practically unstoppable, separate them and make it so they can’t speak to each other and they’ve got an anxious super-soldier.

I’ve got eyes on her. Clint’s voice came over next. And unless there’s something I’m missing, Y/N is either running from something invisible or she’s trying to get somewhere.

Anything from the west wing she could have seen? Tony’s voice filled their ears.

Still looking. Nat responded.

“Where is she headed?” Bucky asked a moment later, the swift movement of his knife piercing the body of another person advancing on him. With him down, Bucky had cleared his section. His concern now focused on why Y/N had been running away or towards something.

I’ve lost sight of her. She was headed towards the east. More than likely heading your way.

The plans had been replaying in Y/N’s head from the moment she read them in the west wing. The words on the pages she had found made her heart race in a way that all the training she had been through never made it race. The fear had threatened to bring tears to her eyes. All she knew was that she had to get to Bucky.

She hadn’t stopped for a moment since she had begun running. Even when she was faced with those that tried to stop her, she simply pulled out her dagger, allowing it to make contact for a brief moment before she continued. The bodies she left behind weren’t on her mind for more than a second.

As she made it towards the end of the property, her eyes landed on Bucky. From the looks of things, he had finished clearing things out and was beginning to look for her. She knew he had to be seeing as she no longer had her earpiece. It was something he’d always do no matter what the mission was that they were on.

Y/N believed she had made it there on time. That if he was alone he’d be okay. If there were no signs of Hydra, Bucky would be safe. That getting him out of the area would ensure his safety. It was as she began slowing down did Bucky notice her.

He took off on a light jog to meet her halfway from that point. “What happened?” He asked, seeing the look on her face.

“We need to get out of here, now.” she said in between the breaths of air she was trying to get.

You should listen to her. Nat’s voice picked up in Bucky’s ear. This whole thing was a damn setup.

The moment the words registered in his ear, they both noticed the way a red dot appeared on Bucky’s chest. His first instinct would have been to grab the both of them and find cover. Before he could do anything, Y/N’s instinct kicked in and she pushed Bucky out of the way, just as the shot had been fired.

Both of them had fallen onto the ground but it was Y/N that cried out in pain. Her hands automatically tried to grab at her back to take in the injury she had gotten. To apply some kind of pressure to it or at the very least to see where it was.

Just as Bucky moved to look her over a jolt of electricity shot through her body. One that caused a loud piercing scream to pass her lips before she went silent. Bucky could only watch as her body convulsed from the electrical charge running through her body. The last thing Y/N heard and saw was Bucky reaching for her the moment the shocking stopped his voice calling out to her before she passed out.

The minutes after had gone in a blur to Bucky. The others all speaking at once trying to figure out their location. They all had heard her screams. May it have been through the comms or even the fact that they were close by and could hear it. The words mixed in with the emotions that were currently playing through him.

From the moment she passed out, Bucky had her in his arms. He hardly even remembered yelling at the others to shut up and just get to them. They needed to leave before Y/N bled out or even died there in his arms. He didn’t even want to begin to think about her dying there. Not when that shot wasn’t even meant for her.

He could barely remember how long it had taken him to get to the quinjet, let alone the ride back to the compound. The whole ride back, he never left her side. Even when Bruce helped to stop the bleeding for the trip back, he never once took his eyes off of her. Even after getting her to the Med Bay, he fought to be with her. But he couldn’t be.

There was a storm of emotions brewing within him as he watched from behind a glass window as the team Stark hired had begun working on pulling the bullet out of Y/N’s back. The wound was simple, but because of the electric charge that came from it, her skin looked fried around the wound.

Y/N wasn’t even supposed to be in there. She wasn’t supposed to be wounded and it was because of who he was made to be. That the very organization that he had once freed himself from was desperately trying to get him back. And in the process, the woman he loved was injured.

“She’ll get through this.” Steve said as he came to stand beside Bucky. Steve knew that Y/N had been shot at, broken, and bloodied with several of the missions that she had been through. The woman always seemed to pull through.

“That charge that went through her body, was meant for me.” Bucky said never taking his eyes off of Y/N. “My body would have taken that charge and it would have caused little damage. She’s not like us.”

“She may not be like us, but I’ve seen her take on world threats and she’s come out of them right by your side.” Steve needed Bucky to have some kind of hope.

Bucky’s forehead placed against the glass as he shook his head. “I can’t lose her Steve.”

Steve watched as tears slowly formed in Bucky’s eyes. He wasn’t sure if it was fear or anger that had caused the tears. He brought his hand up and placed it on Bucky’s shoulder. It seemed that the simple action had caused Bucky to let the storm inside of him be released.

He placed his arm around Bucky, allowing his friend to lean on him while he broke down. Steve listened as Bucky mentioned time and time again about it should have been him. That he should have been the one on the table. But if it hadn’t been for Y/N, Bucky would have been taken away.

Steve stayed with Bucky for the time it took to get Y/N closed up and have tests done to make sure the surge of power that went through her hadn’t damaged any of her organs. The testing is what took the longest. The needing to ensure that Y/N would wake up was something that held the heaviest weight.

Y/N’s eyes slowly opened and she found herself in a bed in the Med Bay. A confused look played on her face for a moment before her brain registered the pain her body felt in that moment. She winced as she began to look around before a small smile pulled at her lips.

Bucky had been by her side, his head resting on the space beside her. She could tell he had been sleeping. She could see it in the steady rise and fall of his shoulders as she watched him. Bringing a shaky hand up, she ran it through his hair. The action itself was comforting to herself and if she was being honest, she was sure that it would bring some comfort to him as well.

Her touch had caused Bucky to lift his head quickly. “You’re awake.”

The slight nod of her head had caused her to wince. “How long was I out?” Her voice was rough as she spoke.

“Almost a week.” She could hear the relief in his voice at seeing her awake. He sat up and moved his chair closer before he reached for her hand. “Have I ever mentioned how crazy you are?”

That caused a slight smile to grow on her face, her fingers tightening around his own. “We both know I’m crazy enough to take bullets for the people I love.”

“Doesn’t mean you should.” He said with a slight nod of his head.

“I couldn’t let them take you. Not after everything we’ve done to make sure you got better.” She wasn’t going to let him ‘win’ this argument. “The moment I saw their plans, I didn’t care about anything else. I just knew I had to get to you.”

Bucky sighed as stood up and moved to sit on the bed next to her. His hand came up and ran along her cheek, before bringing his lips to hers for a brief kiss. “I was afraid that you weren’t going to wake up. They kept saying that you were okay, that it would be when you were ready that you would wake up. All I could think about was how there was a whole day where I thought I was going to lose you. And I hated that feeling.”

“If you’re trying to say I shouldn’t go on-” She tried saying before he cut her off.

“No, I would never say that. Not when you know how to take care of yourself. I was just thinking it would be a lot easier and probably safer for the both of us if we stick together as a team.” His words had caused her eyebrow to raise.

“You mean babysit me.” It caused them both to chuckle.

“Is it really babysitting if we enjoy working together?” He asked with a smile pulling at his lips.

She shook her head slightly. “Fine. But even I know it might be a while before I’m out in the field again.”

“About that,” He said as leaned into her a little more. “During your time away from the field, I was thinking about a vacation for the both of us. Lay low while the others cut all the loose ends to ensure there’s no one coming after us.”

“A recovery vacation, while laying low? I’m definitely listening.”

The two of them knew things would never be perfect out there. Not in their line of business. Not with their pasts or even who they’ve become. There would be times where they’d be placed in this same position. They'd be willing to keep the other one safe, no matter the cost.

All WorksTag (The tag to be notified for everything I write):

@xoxo-nikki-xoxo @mrs-jackson-kenner @mizzzpink

@amariaamaris

Excelsior Tag(All MCU fics):

@hey-there-angels @hellotvshowtrash @dpaccione@taylordrunkonwhiskey @old-enough-to-know-better73 @elijahs-wife @jesuswasnotawhiteman @kpopgirlbtssvt

Winter Soldier tag(For only and all things Bucky):

@fandom-princess-forevermore

[bmischool]

Best Charter Schools in Houston: A Closer Look at Beatrice Mayes Institute

Finding the right educational environment for your child is a crucial decision that can shape their future. In Houston, charter schools have become increasingly popular for their innovative approaches and tailored educational experiences. Among these, the Beatrice Mayes Institute stands out as a leading institution dedicated to fostering academic excellence and personal growth. In this blog, we’ll delve into what makes Beatrice Mayes Institute one of the best Charter Schools Houston.

A Foundation of Academic Excellence

The institute places a significant focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. By integrating hands-on projects and real-world applications into the curriculum, students are not only learning theoretical concepts but also how to apply them in practical scenarios. This approach cultivates a passion for inquiry and innovation, equipping students with the tools they need to excel in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Holistic Development of Students

Education at Beatrice Mayes Institute goes beyond academics; it encompasses the holistic development of each student. The school is dedicated to nurturing not only intellectual growth but also social, emotional, and physical well-being. Character education is woven into the fabric of the curriculum, teaching students the values of respect, responsibility, and empathy.

In addition to academic rigor, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities designed to promote personal growth. From sports teams to music and arts programs, students have numerous opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills. This well-rounded approach fosters teamwork, leadership, and resilience, preparing students for various life challenges.

Community Engagement and Service Learning

One of the distinguishing features of the Beatrice Mayes Institute is its strong emphasis on community involvement. The school encourages students to actively participate in service learning and community service projects. By engaging with their local neighborhoods, students develop a sense of social responsibility and learn the importance of giving back.

The institute collaborates with local organizations to create meaningful partnerships that enhance students’ educational experiences. These initiatives help students connect classroom learning with real-world issues, fostering a deeper understanding of their role in society. As they work on community projects, students not only gain valuable skills but also build lasting connections with their peers and community members.

A Supportive and Dedicated Staff

The success of the Best Schools In Houston can be attributed in large part to its dedicated faculty and staff. The school prides itself on hiring passionate educators who are committed to creating a supportive and nurturing environment for all students. With small class sizes, teachers can provide individualized attention, ensuring that each student’s unique needs are met.

Educators at Beatrice Mayes Institute are not just instructors; they are mentors who guide students in their academic and personal journeys. This strong support system helps foster positive relationships, allowing students to feel safe and valued within the school community.

Preparing Students for the Future

As students progress through the Beatrice Mayes Institute, they are not only prepared for the next level of education but also equipped with essential life skills. The school’s emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and community involvement ensures that graduates emerge as well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges of the future.

Conclusion: Why Choose Beatrice Mayes Institute?

When searching for the best charter schools in Houston, the Beatrice Mayes Institute stands out as a top choice. With its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, holistic student development, and active community engagement, the institute provides a comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for success in all areas of life. If you are looking for an environment where your child can thrive academically while also growing as a responsible and engaged citizen, the Beatrice Mayes Institute is undoubtedly an exceptional option among the many charter schools in Houston. Explore what this remarkable school has to offer, and watch your child flourish!

[idabbleincrazy]

Turning Point

Fandom: Angel (Buffyverse)

Rating: T

Pairing: Spangel

Word Count: 500

Warnings: angst, comfort (of sorts), future-fic, post-NFA

Summary: After ten years apart, Spike has an important decision to make.

A/N: written for the LJ comm Slash the drabble, with the prompt 'appointment'. This would've been a ficlet if they didn't have word limits...

"Wasn't sure you'd show, pet." Spike looked up at the man as he reached his table in the corner, pushing a mug of beer towards him. "Thought that ancient mind of yours might’ve started to slip, thought you'd forget, or change your mind."

Angel smiled ruefully and sat across from the younger blonde, taking up his beer and drinking half of it before responding. 

"I don’t forget important appointments, Will. We agreed, ten years, then we'd decide where to go from here." Angel drained the rest of his pint and set the glass down heavily. "God, has it only been ten years? So much has happened, it feels like a lifetime."

"Close enough to one, for me. This past decade has seemed longer to me than the hundred and fifty before it." Spike forced himself to sip at the beer slowly with the temperance that a decade of practice still felt foreign to him. "Too much, and not enough, has happened over the last ten years, Angel. Sometimes, I'm movin' too fast, sometimes, I can't keep up."

Angel ran his finger through the ring of condensation left behind by the empty mug, his lips pursed in contemplation. Spike's enigmatic response gave no hint, one way or the other, as to the decision they would wait these ten years to make. Angel knew what he himself wanted, but he could only hope that the two of them were finally on the same page. He could feel Spike's gaze boring a hole into the top of his bowed head, waiting for him to ask the question they both knew weighed heavy on his tongue. He steeled himself and looked up to find those blue eyes stormy with emotion.

"Tell me, William, are you happy?"

"Not happy enough, Liam, not happy enough." Spike kept his gaze level a few seconds longer, then turned his head away, blinking back the tears that threatened. Angel saw the wet that glistened in the corners of his eyes and took Spike’s face in his hands, turning his head back towards him; his thumbs wiped away the stray tears that managed to betray the blonde and he cast him a sad, understanding, smile. "Funny, innit? Thought I could manage it, even though I never really wanted it. Thought I could learn to want it. Shoulda been you, afterall, luv."

Angel sighed, half-relieved, and feeling not a small amount of guilt, at the profound sadness that radiated from the young man. He knew, now, he would hear the answer he'd heard a thousand times in his dreams. 

"Tell me, Spike. Tell me what you've decided. Ten years, my little one, I need to hear you speak the words, as you spoke them that first night after the battle."

"Turn me back, Angel. I want you to make me what I was. I want to be yours again." Spike leaned into the palm of one of Angel's hands. "Take my life, do the spell, and make me your Childe again."

[something-tofightfor]

Magnetic: Chapter 8 - I’m Going to Need Your Help

Pairing: The Mandalorian x Reader  (female reader insert; no ‘Y/N’)

Word count: 9,421

Rating: M. Language. 

Summary: The time has come for you to decide - will you help Din with Goscoll, or will he decide that he doesn’t need your help? After seeing something that you hadn’t planned on him seeing and getting his response, the decision’s much easier.  But a realization about your future - and Grogu’s - also presents a very unique opportunity for you ... and it involves the Mandalorian himself. 

Author’s note:

Check out the earlier parts of this story by visiting my Masterlist

I would apologize about this cliffhanger, but I’m not sorry.  Also, I started a playlist for this story on Spotify. Check it out here ... and if you have anything to add, please feel free to send messages my way. 

If you want to be added or removed from my tag list, please let me know - it’s open.

(banner by @malionnes)

The Mandalorian leaving you and Grogu with the ship while he went after the bounty on Mordagon was no different than any of the times before, but because he’d had to land well away from the small city where the quarry was hiding, you knew you’d have at least an extra day and a half apart to account for his travel time. Lots of time for me to think. “Isn’t that right, little one?” You and Grogu were outside, enjoying the fresh air on the morning of the third day of waiting, but you were relaxed, laying on your side as you watched him play in the short, stubby grass. “So much thinking, so little -” Practice. He ran over to you, tripping over his feet but catching himself at the last possible second and stopping barely a few inches from you. Practice. “Ok, kid. You want to -” No, you. 

 At that, you sat up, narrowing your eyes. What do you mean? I can’t use the lightsaber here. No. Not that. With only a short pause, you watched as Grogu held a hand out, one eye narrowed, and small stones lifting off of the ground beneath his flattened palm. No. Grogu, no. But he kept staring at you, lifting his arm slightly and encouraging the gravel up with it. Yes. 

 “Come on, buddy. You know I can’t.” Can. You crossed your legs, hands gripping your ankles. “Ok, then, I don’t want to.” He curled his fingers and the rocks tumbled back to the ground, the kid plopping down and looking up at you. Can. Will. “Grogu, no. The -” But he surprised you, reaching out and laying his hand over yours, and for the first time in weeks, you felt everything he was thinking - and feeling. Dammit, kid. You and your dad need to stop doing this.

 It didn’t take you long to understand why he wanted you to attempt to use your ability in the same way that he could. Protect him. You blinked back tears at Grogu’s thoughts of the Mandalorian, only wanting to be sure that even while he stayed with Peli, his father would have someone that could at least partially do what he could - to keep the man as safe as possible if the situation required it. Safe. Safe. Safe. He repeated the word to you, and though both of your eyes were closed, it didn’t make the meaning behind it any less obvious. How do you know I’m going to say yes? 

  But he didn’t answer that, just gripping your leg more tightly and changing his thoughts, hitting you with more memories of the Mandalorian finding himself in difficult - and dangerous - situations. He really does need some extra help sometimes, hmm? Grogu agreed, pulling his hand away a few seconds later and making a loud, defiant noise. Practice. “Alright, kid, give me a second.” Gritting your teeth, you laid your hands against the ground and lowered your head, thinking. Din had spent nearly an hour telling you about the people he’d worked with - and the people he’d lost. The conversation had given you a much clearer look into the man’s mind, cluing you in about the way he felt toward the people he brought on as temporary partners. He’d spoken of the men and women openly, answering your questions - some more haltingly than others - and by the time you’d excused yourself to lay down, you’d felt closer to the Mandalorian in a way that you hadn’t in the earlier weeks. He’s more than the armor. More than the silence. More than the … reputation. You’d known that before that night - through the kid’s memories, mostly - but it was nice to have an in-person frame of reference. 

 “I want to help him, kid.” You whispered the words, glancing up through your eyelashes. “But I’m afraid to. I’ve never had to do anything like that before.” Lifting one hand a few inches, you concentrated on it, trying to breathe deeply. “What if I -” But you cut yourself off, realizing that the same stones Grogu had lifted were vibrating against the ground, rattling around slowly. Oh, I … You took a deep breath, humming, and drew your hand back further, gasping as the rocks followed, an inch or so off the ground. See? 

 You blinked at him, glancing down and seeing that nothing had changed; the small stones were still hovering, following the movement of your hand as you slowly swiped it from side to side. “It’s just rocks, Grogu. Tiny little rocks, they barely weigh anything, this is nothing.” 

 “No, it’s not.” You heard Din’s voice, immediately gasping and closing the fingers of your hand into a fist, the rocks scattering once again. “It’s something.” Scrambling to your knees, you spun toward the sound, reaching for Grogu. Oh, no. “Give me a few minutes to freeze him.”  You nodded, letting go of the kid, and watching as the man dragged the bounty up the ramp and into the ship despite the protests coming from the prisoner. That had to be a fun walk back. Grogu laughed, and you smiled down at him, even though your heart was still pounding. 

 “He wasn’t supposed to see that, kid.” You dragged a finger through the dirt. “I told him I couldn’t … that I wouldn’t use the Force like that, and …” I lied. And you’d done it intentionally - something you thought that the man would probably take personally. “Even though it wasn’t personal.” Grogu didn’t reply, but he waddled closer to you, laying both hands on one of your thighs. Not mad. You blinked down at him, trying to smile but couldn’t, instead lifting one hand to carefully rub at his ear, his eyes closing and an almost purr leaving his throat at the motion. I hope not. 

 “I brought you a comm device.” You looked up, seeing the man standing in the doorway at the top of the ramp, a large rectangular object in his hands. “It should work here, you can send your message back before we take off.” 

 “Thank you.” Swallowing again, you settled back, the backs of your thighs pressed to your calves, hands curled into fists atop your legs. “Din, I -” 

 “Hey, kid.” He began walking down the ramp, Grogu turning his head at the words. “Go play.” What? His boots reached the ground, and the Mandalorian stopped, lifting one finger. “Don’t go far, but go play.” But the kid didn’t move - looking up at the man, head swinging back and forth between the two of you slowly. “Go.” You’d never heard the tone from him before - stern but not quite angry, commanding the child without being mean about it - and if you hadn’t known that it was because of you, you would have given the way it made you shiver more thought. Instead, you lowered your head again, taking a deep breath. Go ahead, kid. I’ll be fine. 

 With one last look at Din, Grogu wandered off, only needing a few feet before he began running, his arms held out from his sides, ears flapping with each step. “It’s good that he can stretch his legs here, especially if he’s gonna be cooped up for a while.” He didn’t answer, but you saw him lower himself down next to you, leaving some space as you both faced the ship. Stars, this is … 

 “So you can do what the kid does.” He let out a breath and you turned your head toward him, watching as his shoulders rose and fell. “You said you couldn’t, said you couldn’t control it so you wouldn’t, and I see you and the kid -” He was honest with me. He told me about all of his … 

 “I hurt my sister.” You squeezed your eyes shut, tilting your head down and pressing your lips against your shoulder. “I didn’t mean to, but it happened.” His knees bent and  forearms resting on top of them, Din laced his fingers together, waiting. In halting speech, you told Din about what had happened in the forest as you’d used - and realized - your ability for the first time, and the trouble that had come after. “They were afraid of me. Afraid that I would hurt them, when all I’d done was try to save her in the first place. But they didn’t care. My mother just saw the blood from where she hit her head, and my father thought that I …” You trailed off. “I tried to make it better, but I just made it all worse because I wasn’t strong enough to move her, just hold her for a little while. There was no one like me there, and I thought something was wrong with me. I didn’t understand it, even though we’d all heard stories of the Empire and the Resistance, of the Jedi.” 

 “I was afraid of him, too.” Din finally spoke, helmet turned toward you. “Even when he saved me. I knew nothing of the Jedi or of the Force, I just saw a child with power, and even though he never used it against me? He could have. He should have. I turned him in, turned him over to -” 

 “He was just a job. You did what you were expected to do. And you went back for him. That first time and every other time.” You shifted positions, sitting down and crossing your legs, using two fingers to draw in the dirt. “I’m afraid of myself sometimes, Din. Of what I can do… of what I … could do to someone without realizing it.” Someone else that I care about. Someone that I’m just trying to protect. “They tried to tell me that if I could control my emotions, that I’d be able to use the Force the same way the Jedi do, that I didn’t need to fear the power, but even years later? I couldn’t get the look in my sister’s eyes to disappear, or forget the way my mother’s -”

 “I’m not afraid of you.” He reached over, settling his hand on top of yours and saying your name. “And neither is the kid.” Oh, this is … You could feel that he was telling you the truth - that he wasn’t afraid of you - and he wasn’t mad, either. “Think about what the two of you together could do, if you were to both use … you could protect each other, even more than you do now.” He was right - you had to hand it to him; the man was much more insightful than anyone likely gave him credit for. Because he doesn’t speak to people this way, he doesn’t … this isn’t normal for him. “Can you … can  you show me what you were doing?” He squeezed your hand and then let go, straightening his back. “With the rocks?” No, I… 

 But you had no reason not to - he’d just said he wasn’t afraid of you, which meant that he trusted you, trusted you to show him what you could do without hurting him or Grogu. “Let me go ove-”

 “No.” He paused. “No, you can stay there.” He reached up, tapping the side of his helmet. “Beskar, remember?” You actually smiled at that and then let out a slow, deep breath. Alright. 

 “It’s not power, not … technically.” You focused on the ground and the air, letting your mind settle. “It’s a connection, and to use it, you have to understand it - and understand yourself.” The teachings of the Masters had been drilled into your head - along with the other Padawans - for years, and repeating them calmed you further. “It’s everywhere, I told you that on Nevarro, but here, it’s a little… a little stronger, and so…” Focus. You won’t hurt him. 

 He said your name quietly and you opened your eyes, looking down. The ground beneath both hands was shifting, the rocks and dirt rising again, and you pulled your hands back and onto your lap, concentrating. Ok. This isn’t so bad. “Try something bigger.” He pointed with one hand at a larger rock, halfway between you and the ship. “There.” Letting the dirt drop, you shifted your focus and that rose too, but after only a few seconds, you sent it off and to the right, through the air and into the grass. “I wish I understood.” He sighed. Understood what? 

 “One more?” You gave him a small smile, the Mandalorian nodding slowly at you. “Ok.” Scanning your surroundings, you saw the top edge of a small crate inside of the ship and held one hand out, lips pressed together. It took a few seconds, but you both watched as it moved through the air toward you, hovering a few inches off the ground at first, and then, by the time it reached you, a few feet. “Heavier objects are more difficult. But people like Luke? Like the other Jedi? They barely have to think about it.” You blinked twice, letting out a quiet hum and then the crate fell - slowly - to the ground, settling just in front of you. 

 “Do you need to rest now?” The Mandalorian turned his upper body toward yours. “Like the kid used to? Since you -” 

 “No.” You rotated your wrists. “A little.” I don’t know how to explain it. “I don’t need to go to sleep, and you won’t have to carry me into the ship and up the ladder, but if I were to try to move something larger, like one of us? Like one of the carbonite slabs? It might be different. Grogu’s very small, so that probably made it more exhausting, but when you’re more aware of how to … channel the Force? It’s not … not as …” 

 “Tiring?” You could hear the smile in his voice, and even as the man got to his feet, you couldn’t reply, stunned. I thought he was mad at me, and he … “I told you you could do it.” He held a hand out to you, and without pause you reached up to take it, letting him help you to your feet. “You used your ability for the first time and it was an accident, right?” You nodded, looking up at his helmet, which was tilted slightly downward. “And the Jedi know it? They know what happened?” Another nod, this one slower. “They wouldn’t have sent you here - to me - with Grogu if they thought that it would happen again if you were forced to use it.” He’s right. He was still holding your hand, and even though you knew you were both aware of that fact, neither of you moved to change it. 

 Something shifted between the two of you in the muted sunlight of Mordagon, the Mandalorian holding your hand loosely in front of the lowered ship’s ramp, but you weren’t sure what it was. Trust? Acceptance? You took a shaky breath, waiting. Understanding? It changed, but with your hand held in his, and his emotions - though dulled - open to you, you couldn’t concentrate on what it was exactly. Does it matter? “I want to help you with Goscoll, Din.” His grip on you tightened. “I want to know what your plan is, and what you need me to do.” 

 “Really?” Chewing on your lip, you shrugged your shoulders and said yes. “Are you sure? It’s going to take some work.” 

 “I’m sure.” It was your turn to squeeze his hand, giving him a smile. “Maybe someday you’ll tell someone about how I helped you out with a tough mission, too.” You kept the smile on your face, even though it was difficult. But him telling them about me would mean that I’m not … that I’m the past. Pulling your hand out of his grip and turning away before he could see your face fall, you closed your eyes. I’m glad he can’t read my emotions. “Let’s go get your kid, though. I’m sure he’s hungry.” 

 Stepping closer to the taller grass, you reached out with your mind, calling for Grogu, but instinctively knew that he’d want you to find him - and he wouldn’t make it easy. “Yeah.” Mando caught up with you quickly, falling into step next to you, arms swinging gently by his sides. “I’m sure he is.” 

 --- 

 The trip from Mordagon to Tatooine could be made in under two days, Mando citing clear hyperspace travel lanes, and even though you knew Grogu was upset at the thought of being separated from both of you for at least a week, he was excited to see the woman - and her droids - again. He’d kept up a steady stream of conversation with you after the Mandalorian told him where you were going, and the three of you had passed the time in the cockpit quickly on the first day and evening after takeoff. 

 Despite what you’d told the Mandalorian about not being tired, you’d fallen asleep sitting up in the cockpit that night, Grogu cradled in your arms. But the sleep had been interrupted as you felt yourself being lifted, one eye cracking open only long enough to see that Din had gently scooped you up from the seat and was carrying you across the small landing and into your room. “Didn’t have to… was fine in…” You hummed as your head hit the pillow, your hold on Grogu tightening. “...Din.” You’d said his name and lifted one hand unconsciously, feeling the smooth beskar of the side of his helmet beneath your fingertips. “Thank you.”

 He froze for a second and so did you, but then he said your name, pulling away from you and spreading the blanket over your bodies, telling you to get some rest. You should too. You were almost asleep again a few seconds later, but were also dimly aware of the feeling of a large hand resting on your cheek briefly, leather warm and soft as it moved across your lips. Or am I dreaming already? The weight disappeared and you heard the sound of the door closing - then nothing else until you woke up the following day. 

 When you opened your eyes next, Grogu was still sleeping. Smiling at the sound of his snores, one of your thumbs moved slowly over the back of his head as you watched him. You’d missed sleeping with the kid, having something to hold onto - and even though you understood why he was spending most nights with Din, you’d never apologize for keeping him for one. My turn, right Grogu? Taking a deep breath, you frowned, trying to remember moving from the cockpit and into the bed, but the only thing you remembered was beskar. He carried us? He could have … As your head cleared, you widened your eyes and sucked in a quick breath, remembering that you’d lifted your hand toward his helmet, going so far as to lay your palm against it. What did I touch? Was it the back or the side or… That confusion grew as one last fragment returned to you - the feeling of leather on your face. Did he… I thought he … 

 Grogu’s movement distracted you, and only a few seconds later you heard him chirp, pushing against your chest with both hands and moving into a sitting position. “Hey, you.” Wrinkling your nose, you gave him a smile. “You slept for a long time.” You too. “Yeah. Are you hungry?” He nodded and it only took you a few minutes to sit up and then get dressed, pulling on a long sleeved shirt - still Din’s, since there hadn’t been anything suitable on Nevarro - and lifting the kid back into your arms. “Let’s get you into that copilot’s seat and I’ll get you breakfast.” 

 The doors to the cockpit were shut, and instead of barging in, you knocked, waiting. I don’t want to walk in on him without … But they opened immediately, and you saw the curved top of the helmet in the center seat, Grogu perking up at the sight. “Good morning.” The fact that he spoke first shocked you, but you didn’t hesitate with a response, setting the kid down and greeting Din back. “I hope you don’t mind that I moved you two, I didn’t want to wake you when I came back in, and -” 

 “Not at all.” You stood next to him, eyes on the windshield and the dimmed starlight beyond it. Filtering it again. “”Guess I was a little more wiped than -” 

 “You were. So was he.” Din reached over, straightening Grogu’s robes. “Go. Eat. We’ll be here.” He was dismissing you, but it wasn’t unkind, and so you climbed downstairs, quickly preparing breakfast for you and the kid, refilling your canteens and carefully closing a large flask of fresh caf, sliding it into a small pouch before you climbed back up. It was easier to feed Grogu in the cockpit than it was to herd him downstairs, but you and the man took turns doing so anyway. Breakfast and lunch were typically your meals, while Din and Grogu nearly always ate dinner together. “Peli knows we’re coming.” Instead of disrupting Grogu, you sat on the man’s left, swiveling the chair so that you could look at him while he spoke. “She’s … happy.” Your eyes moved to the kid and Mando nodded once as though he’d seen the subtle shift in your focus. Of course he would. “I also heard from Cara Dune. Your … Skywalker sent a reply there - coded - and thanked you for the update. Said he looks forward to the next.” Good. That’s … good. 

 “I’ll probably send another after the third or fourth bounty.” You took a long swallow of the hot liquid, eyes closing as it hit your throat. That’s perfect. “Couple weeks, right?” He gave you another, singular nod. “So.” You swallowed, reaching up with one finger to touch the corner of your mouth. “Is there anything we need to do before we get to Tatooine? Anything you want me to do with the weapons or the ship or -” 

 “No.” He leaned forward as you took your first bite of bread. “You and I will have plenty of time to do that after we drop the kid off, once I tell you my plan.” Alright then. You heard the finality in his voice, and even though you couldn’t read his thoughts, you knew that there was something he was keeping from you - something that he didn’t want to say in front of Grogu. I wonder what that is. 

 --- 

 You landed on Tatooine just as the twin suns were beginning to set the following day, and as you descended toward the landing zone near the woman’s workshop, you leaned forward, elbows on the console as Din steered the ship, keeping your eyes on the glow. “It’s… it’s gorgeous, Din.” You’d never seen a planet with two suns before, but didn’t think it would ever be possible to grow tired of the way they looked; chasing each other toward the horizon and bathing the landscape in firey golds and reds. “Are there lots of -” 

 “There are planets with three suns. Planets where the moon never sets.” How did he know what I was going to ask? You could see the woman’s hangar, just below you and to the north, but were still eyeing the sky, thankful that Din wasn’t filtering the glass while you landed.  He said your name, pulling your attention back to him. “I’ve met just about every type of person you can  imagine in the galaxy.” Again, his tone was matter of fact, but you didn’t let it deter you. “But none like Peli.” That got a change in tone, and you couldn’t help laughing, eyebrows rising. “Just … give her a chance.” Why wouldn’t I? 

 The moment you touched down, you saw a small woman ambling out into the open, a couple droids not far behind her. She’s loud. Grogu’s thoughts were insistent, and you kept smiling, even as the ramp lowered and you stepped into the dusky night, taking a deep breath. “Mando!” Peli moved closer, one hand on her hip. “Took you long enough to get here.” 

 “We’re early.” His footsteps heavy, you followed him down, watching the woman crane her neck, trying to look into the pouch at his waist, partially obstructed by his cape. 

 “Where’s the little - there he is!” She clapped her hands together once, leaning down as Grogu’s clawed hand pushed the fabric aside, his head peeking out from Mando’s hip. “You look healthy. Have they been feeding you well? It looks like they’ve been -” She plucked him out of the bag, holding him up in front of her to inspect him, and you bit back a laugh at his thoughts, which ranged from amusement to annoyance. She missed you, kid. Another person that loves you. “And who are you? You’re new.” 

 She was holding the kid close in one arm, the other hand back on her hip. “I brought the kid home.” You smiled, telling her your name. “Been with him since the first day he started learning about what he could do, and … now I’m here with him and Mando.” 

 “Huh.” Her lips pushed out, she shrugged, looking down at Grogu and then back at you, eyes then moving between you and the Mandalorian. “Alright.” You’d expected her to say something else, but she didn’t, instead holding out her hand to shake yours. “Nice to meet you. Glad to see that these two finally have some good company on that ship.” She squinted, frowning. “But that’s not the Razor Crest, is it, Mando?” 

 “It’s not.” You felt Peli’s response to his words - shock and surprise, her eyes going wide as she continued to look at the gunship behind you. “But it’s close.” 

 “It’s another bucket of bolts, that’s what it is, and you know it.” Peli looked down. “Right, you little womp rat?” He’s been called that more in the last two weeks than he has been in a year. “Need me to take a look at it while you’re here? Maybe not. Are you hungry? I was making dinner for myself, and I guess there’s enough to -” 

 “Feed the kid. We have an errand.” We do? “It won’t take long.” She muttered under her breath, but had already turned away from you, carrying Grogu toward an open door before the Mandalorian spoke again. “We need to go into town, because we need to get you some new clothes.” New clothes? “It’s part of the plan.” He gestured with one hand, and for the first time, you realized that he didn’t have the long gun slung over his back, nor did he have the spear. He’s not armed? But a quick glance told you that instead of those weapons, Mando’s blaster was holstered on one hip, the Darksaber’s hilt just behind it. That’s… interesting. 

 You walked in silence next to the man, enjoying the feeling of the slowly cooling air, the scent of it different than it had been on Nevarro. “So … clothes?” You looked up. “What -” 

 “Part of the plan involves you acting like a tourist. All of your clothes now would look out of place landing on Hosnian Prime, and you’ll need to blend in to get from the spaceport to the hotel you’re staying in.” Oh. That makes …But it also means that he’s paid attention to how I dress. “While you’re doing that, I’m going to buy some supplies.” That makes sense, too. “If there’s anything you need, let me know.” 

 “This place doesn’t look too big, Mando.” You were eyeing the low, domed buildings. “I’ll pick something out, and then do my own shopping.” There were plenty of vendors selling everything from clothing to medicine, and a small number of people browsing, despite the late hour. “What should -”

 “Buy a jacket.” He stopped, turning to face you. “Something that looks worn.” He shrugged his shoulders. “Brown leather, maybe.” Well that’s specific. “Go, we’ll meet here in thirty minutes.” Giving him a nod, you watched as he walked off, cape fluttering in the breeze. Ok, well… I guess it’s time to shop. 

 --- 

 You met him a couple minutes after you’d planned, a few packages tucked into a newly purchased knapsack hanging over your shoulder, the handle of a large bag held loosely in one of his hands. “Find everything you need, Mando?” He swiveled his head toward you, but stayed quiet. “I did. This place is really … I like it.” 

 “It’s… lively sometimes.” He walked a half step behind you, and at his words you realized he was doing it so that your back wasn’t exposed. Is it that dangerous? Really? Why would he leave the kid if… “Lots of people passing through, plenty of alcohol, you know how it goes.” I guess I do. “It’s safe, especially in the hangar, but for someone new? It can be a surprise.” His words made sense, but it still shocked you that he’d immediately moved to shield you from something as simple as walking away from the town he’d just let you wander around by yourself in. Strange. 

 You reached the hangar a few minutes later, both of you reentering the ship and setting your bags down, Mando kneeling to remove a smaller bag from inside of his. “What’s that?” 

 “Peli likes the kid, but she’s… she likes credits, too.” Your lips twisted up into a half smile. “So I bought things for him to eat while we’re gone.” He reached into the bag, pulling out a full bottle of liquid. Alcohol. “And something for her.” The Mandalorian bought someone a gift? That’s a shock. “Show me the jacket.” Nodding, you turned away from him, bending over to pull the the new clothing out, slipping your arms into it and zipping it up halfway as you spun to face him. “It’s patched, but it was one of the only ones they had in my size, and I -”

 “It’s perfect.” He took a step closer to you, nodding. “That was a … good choice.” He didn’t say anything else, and the two of you stood in silence for a few seconds, your eyes on his visor, his head tilted down slightly. What are you thinking, Din? What do you … The Force was stronger on Tatooine, and the Mandalorian’s emotions were more readable, though still not as strong as someone else’s would have been. However, the glimpses of him that you’d gotten while on the planet were confusing you; fluctuating between apprehensive and confident, though you could tell he was in a good mood overall. It’s got to be the bounty, he has to be excited to do something so complicated. This is what he’s missed. “We should go in. Maybe Peli’s got some leftover food for you.” 

 At that, you grinned, Removing the coat before crouching down to rifle through your bag. “Even if she doesn’t, I bought some things to try.” Pulling out the box you’d bought from the vendor, you stood back up, holding it in one hand. “That’s my goal. While I’m with you … with the two of you?” You arched an eyebrow. “I’m going to try all of the new foods I can.” He tilted his head. “Blue milk? Dewback jerky? Something called terrine? I bought a bunch of different things, and you’re more than welcome to whatever I have leftover since I know you can’t eat until later.” You’d purposely bought extra, knowing that Din existed almost solely on foods that were quick to prepare, but wouldn’t ever tell him that. “I can split it now, if -” “N...no.” He paused, shifting on his feet. “I’ll take whatever you can’t finish.” He gestured to the door and you walked toward it, already excited to get back out and into the air - and to sit down and eat with Peli. But when you made it halfway down the ramp, you stopped, looking up. What? “Tatooine’s got two suns,” he said, low voice coming from close behind you. I… Before you could speak, you felt a hand on your back, fingers splayed out against the thin material of the shirt you wore - still his. “But three moons.” 

 Those words came from much closer, the Mandalorian’s helmet right next to your head, and even though you couldn’t see his face, you imagined his mouth close to your ear, the way his eyes would be cast down as he spoke so that he could see your reaction. This isn’t kriffing fair. He gave you a few more seconds to stare at the sky, and then Din did urge you forward gently, your name quietly leaving his lips. 

 But as you walked from the ship to the entrance to Peli’s home, the Mandalorian didn’t speak again - or remove his hand from your back. 

 --- 

 The four of you spent the next few hours together, Peli doing most of the talking and Grogu chiming in - via you - every now and then while he chased the smaller droids around her workshop. Din spoke occasionally, but it wasn’t anything like on Nevarro, or even with you on the ship. Strange. And he knows her well, too. 

 When it came time to settle in for bed, the woman offered you a spare cot and a blanket, but said she didn’t have anywhere for the man to sleep. “I’ll sleep on the ship with the kid.” He was already holding Grogu, whose eyes were nearly shut, one small hand fisting the material at the bend of Din’s elbow between his fingers. He turned his head toward you. “Unless you -” He can sleep on the bed. 

 “No, that’s perfect.” You reached over, running your fingers over Grogu’s arm, looking down at him. “The two of you can spend the night comfortable for once.” Raising your head, you stared into where you imagined his eyes to be. “Sleep in the bed, Mando. There’s more room, and it’s yours anyway.” And you’ll get a good night’s sleep before we head to Hosnian Prime. You couldn’t keep the smile off of your face. “The kid’ll like it, he won’t have to sleep in the pod to stay with you.” 

 “Fine.” He straightened his shoulders. “Do you need anything from the ship?” Shaking your head, you told him that you didn’t think so, and without another word, the Mandalorian and Grogu turned and left the room, disappearing through the entryway and into the darkness. 

 “He’s hard to read, Mando.” You turned back toward Peli, the woman leaning against the far wall with her arms crossed. “Saw him a couple times without the little one, and he …” Her head moved back and forth. “Never seen anything like ‘em, have you?” Like Din, or like the kid? Choosing the safer option, you finally spoke back to her.

 “No. Not … not before Grogu.” Glancing down, you saw that the remaining food was still on the table you’d all sat at. Damn. “Peli, I’m sorry, but the leftovers were supposed to be for Mando, and he forgot them. He hasn’t eaten -” 

 “Go.” She sighed. “I’ll be here when you get back.” Scooping everything back into the bag after you made sure the containers were tightly shut, you walked back to the ship, manually lowering the ramp. There’s no way he’s not hungry. 

 “Mando?” You called out, not wanting to surprise him. “You forgot the food, and you need to -”

 “We’re up here.” You froze, eyes widening. There’s no filter. “You can leave it on the cot, I’ll get it in a few minutes.” Thankful that he couldn’t see the reaction you had to the sound of his unmodulated voice, you managed a reply, taking the few steps over to where he typically slept and setting your things down. Oh, there wasn’t a pillow on the …  “Are you sure you don’t want -”

 “Yes.” You swallowed hard, leaning forward and putting both hands flat on the thin mattress. “I’ll be fine, I think Peli’s looking to play some cards, so …” He laughed at that and you bit down on the inside of your lip, closing your eyes. Why do I … why is this a big deal? The sound wasn’t loud, but you heard it clearly, carrying to your ears in the otherwise silent confines of the ship. Oh, Maker. I need to get back … “M… Din?” Swallowing again, you paused. “Everything’s down here for you. But I didn’t see a pillow on that cot inside, can you throw me one from the -”

 “Take mine.” He said that loudly, and you heard a clang from above, likely the sound of the toe of his boot hitting the top of the ladder. How does he know where … “It’s right there.” You’d figured that he was going to toss the one from upstairs to you; using his pillow hadn’t ever occurred to you. But it … You were holding it to your chest before you’d realized that you’d picked it up, brows furrowed. I’ll take it but I can’t use it. It’s going to… “It’s not much, but it’s …”

 “It’s fine.” You let out a breath, eyes closing. He’s anxious now. “Goodnight, Din. I’ll see you - both of you - in the morning.” Go. You turned away from the cot and toward the ramp, hearing the man call out after you, repeating the same and adding your name at the end. That’s the first time I’ve heard it in person without the … “Sleep well.

 The ramp lifted behind you, and you took a few moments to tilt your head up and toward the sky again, arms wrapped around the pillow and your eyes on the moons. It’s beautiful here. The sky, the air, the …  Lowering your head, you took a deep breath, realizing almost too late that your nose was buried in the softness you held in your arms Damn. 

 The scent that filled your nostrils was similar to the one that had been deeply set into the shirt - but it was stronger. On autopilot, you began walking away from the Razor II, straightening up, your mind racing. It’s soap, like I thought, but it’s … it’s sweat and smoke and spice… It’s him.  

 You entered the building, following the dim light back to the main room, which was vacant. Guess she didn’t want to play cards after all. 

 Sitting down on the edge of your bed, you quickly removed your boots, turning the light off before you laid down. As you settled, you pulled the scratchy blanket up to your shoulders, letting out your breath. This cot isn’t bad. 

 Eyes closed, you turned onto your side and pressed your cheek back to the pillow, inhaling again. I didn’t plan this. You hummed, feeling your body relax as you stretched out. But I won’t complain. Peli’s thoughts were very prominent; as loud as she was when she was right in front of you, but that made them easier to block out. The kid’s presence was faint, and Mando’s anxiety was all but erased by the distance - and the separation due to the walls of the ship and the building you were in. As you began to drift off, it was just you and the pillow in the cool air, and you focused entirely on the padding beneath your head - and the fact that if you were using Din’s pillow, it meant that he was using yours. Wonder if he recognizes the citrom in my soap? 

 You smiled at that, thoughts going back to the man himself, and the way he’d spoken to you earlier that day, the way he’d put his hand on your back, even though there was no need to. We’re cooped up on a ship together, of course it’s… Eyes opening all the way, you rolled over, sliding your hand beneath the pillow as you nestled into it. That’s all it is - the fact that we’re … But you knew that it wasn’t true, at least not entirely. Not gonna deal with that tonight. For now… You let out a quiet sigh. For now, I’m just going to enjoy the fact that I know what his clean hair smells like. 

 --- 

 When it came time to leave the following day, Grogu was nowhere near as agreeable as he usually was when you or the Mandalorian were leaving. We’ll be back, buddy. It’s just a few days. He was clinging to you, Mando and Peli talking something over a few feet away. “We’ll protect each other, kid. I swear it.” You whispered, lowering your head. “And someone’s gotta go with your dad, right? Keep him company, keep him from -” 

 “From what?” The Mandalorian’s tone was full of amusement, and you knew - without a doubt - that he was smiling beneath the helmet. “Enhanced hearing is one of the benefits of wearing this -” 

 “Someone’s gotta keep you from trying to do everything by yourself, Mando.” Turning Grogu around and taking a few steps toward the man, you grinned. “Here.” You handed the kid off, Grogu’s cries growing louder until he was resting in the crook of Din’s elbow, peering up and over it at you. “Be good for Peli, kid. We’ll be back soon.” You bent down, lips pressed  to the top of his head. We’ll be fine, Grogu. I promise. I know. 

 Quickly saying goodbye to Peli, you picked up the pillow you’d used along with your bag, stepping back outside into the bright sunshine of Tatooine. The temperature was much warmer than it had been the day before, and you were wearing only your undershirt, the air heating every inch of exposed skin. I couldn’t live here. It’s too dry, but… the warmth is nice. You gave yourself a few minutes and then headed up the ramp, turning to the right and setting Mando’s pillow down before you climbed the ladder, tossing the bag onto the bed and making your way back into the cockpit. I’ll wait for him here. 

 You weren’t by yourself for long. Din walked out into the open space shortly after you sat down, pausing only for a moment to turn his head back to look through the open door, and then boarded the ship, boots heavy against the floor. You heard the ramp close, and then after another short break, the man climbed to where you were, sliding into the center seat without speaking. Sadness wasn’t the right word for what he was feeling. Longing. It’s … he already misses the kid. 

 You didn’t question the strength of the connection between the two, but it was still a shock when you could tell what Din was feeling. Why is it … why? Confused, you frowned and rubbed at your forehead, staying quiet as the console came to life, the man’s fingers moving swiftly over the buttons and knobs. “I’ll get us up in the air and then we can talk.” Talk? What’s … Instead of asking him what he meant, you gave him a nod before returning your eyes to the glass. 

 “Oh, they’re watching us take off.” You finally spoke up, pointing. “Look.” Peli and Grogu were leaning against the wall, the woman’s arms securely around the kid. Raising a hand to wave, you stopped at the man’s use of your name. “What?”

 “They can’t see you.” He pointed at the button. “Shield’s up. Don’t want people to be able to look in.” Oh. He continued his routine, and you let yourself grin. I’m waving at you, Grogu. You can’t see me, but I’m waving. You watched as he smiled up at the window, lifting one of his own hands to wave at the ship, and before you could stop yourself, you reached out, laying a hand on Din’s arm. “Wh -”

 “He’s waving at us. At you.” You jerked your chin, feeling the man’s muscles tense beneath your touch. “Look.” After only a second’s hesitation, Din reached out with his left hand, pressing the  large button three times. That done, he leaned forward, pulling his right arm out from beneath your hand and lifting it in a slow - but deliberate wave. You felt it as it happened; the shift of the longing to relief, the Mandalorian’s unease dissipating. See you soon, Grogu. Be good for Peli. 

 Without looking away from you - or lowering his hand, the kid answered. Maybe. Barely able to contain your laughter, you finally looked down, lips pressed together. Troublemaker. Though there was no indication that he’d heard the thought because there was no reply, you kept the smile on your face until the Razor II was back in space, Tatooine’s mottled surface far beneath you. 

 --- 

 It wasn’t until hours later that you finally lowered yourself to the floor of the ship, putting your face in your hands. I am exhausted. Instead of talking like he’d told you you would, as soon as he’d plotted the course for Hosnian Prime, Mando asked if you’d help him clean the ship. The request confused you, but you’d agreed, waiting for an explanation that never came. It was a small space, but you were surprised at how long it took the two of you, even though you were careful to keep up with yourself as you traveled. But the kid makes a mess, and it … it makes sense that he’d wait until Grogu was gone to … “Are we done, Din?” Swallowing hard, you looked over to where he was standing, one hand on his hip. “Because if we are, I could definitely use a turn in the fresher, and -” 

 “Yes.” He gave you a nod. “Go ahead. I’ll use it after you.” But it still took you a few minutes to drag yourself off of the floor and into a standing position. “Are you -” 

 “I’m fine.” You grinned at him, gesturing to the armory. “Sitting cross-legged on the floor and cleaning weapons for hours  after scrubbing the inside of a gunship down is just a little out of the ordinary for me. My body’s not used to -” 

 “You get used to it.” He straightened up. “Imagine having to do that in full beskar.” He paused. “And being much older than you are right now.” Much? How much older could you be? “And taller.” The amusement was back, and Din pointed to the door of the fresher. “Go.” Fighting the urge to roll your eyes at him you slowly walked to the ladder and climbed it even more slowly, gathering your things before making your way back down and into the small room. You noticed Din laying back on his cot, one foot flat on the floor, the other boot hanging over the end of the bed, but didn’t focus on it, shutting the door behind you. As you undressed, you realized how complacent you’d gotten while at the Academy - responsible for nothing more than basic chores, and certainly not responsible for a top to bottom cleaning of something as intricate as the ship. It’s just the way I was sitting. You groaned as the hot water hit your bare skin, rubbing at both eyes. And it’s because I’m trying so hard not to read him. 

 Being alone with the Mandalorian was an exercise in being careful, especially when he was silent - because it meant that he was thinking. Nothing was quite clear, but the emotions were still there - discernable to you all the same. The two of you hadn’t talked much while you worked, just a few questions here and there, the man explaining the way that some of the unfamiliar weapons worked. We still need to talk about this plan. You began washing your hair, focused on the repetitive motion of the action. I need to know what he needs from me, how this is … 

 Piling the strands atop your head and securing them, you switched to the rest of your body, hand hovering over the bottle of Din’s soap just long enough for you to talk yourself out of lifting it to your nose. Instead, you groaned again, picking your own up and pouring some out onto a cloth. I’ve smelled the pillow. I’ve smelled the shirt, I don’t need to do that. 

 But it was nearly impossible for you to think of anything else, even as you began to rinse off. Get it together. You have a job to do. Turning the water off, you stepped out and wrapped the towel around yourself, wiping the mirror down with one hand. It was small - and you realized  that Din likely only used it to shave, and for the times he trimmed his hair. He wouldn’t need it for anything else, because no one … no one sees him. The thought made you sad, even though there was no real reason for it; it had been that way for him long before you’d known him, and it would continue to be that way even after you’d left. 

 You got dressed, used your toothbrush and then went back into the cargo hold, surprised to see that Din was still laying on the bed, though he’d removed the boots and the flight suit while you were gone, both sitting neatly at the foot of his cot, the cloth folded. You told him that you were done, which got you a single word response - the man saying “OK” and sitting up, bare hands gripping the edge of the bed. “You said that we needed to talk, Din?” The helmet moved up and down twice. “And we’re not in hyperspace, so …” 

 “I know.” He sounded apprehensive, and you cocked your head to the side. What? “I’ve just been trying to … figure out how to explain this.” 

 “However you want, Din. I already agreed to help you, I -” You licked your lips, brow furrowed slightly. “We could have talked it over while we were cleaning, I -”

 “N...no.” He stood, striding over to where you were and stopping in front of you. “Let me get cleaned up, and then I’ll explain.” Alright. That sounds good.  “I’ll let you know when I’m done.” He didn’t say anything else, turning and disappearing into the room that you’d just emerged from, the sound of the water starting only a few minutes later. Guess I should eat something while I wait, and before I … 

 Sighing, you stepped toward the cupboards, pulling out items to make a meal for yourself and then eyed the ladder again. You have to. And you shouldn’t be this tired. You need to work on it. A wry smile on your face, you looked at the closed fresher door, and then before you could stop yourself, you knocked on it twice. “Din? I’m going upstairs. I’ll see you when you’re done.” He didn’t answer at first, and you felt a quick wave of fear from inside the small room. Damn, he … “Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you, I just wanted to let you know.” You trailed off, swearing quietly to yourself, and hastily climbed the ladder, taking your seat in the cockpit as usual. Since you weren’t in hyperspace, you could see individual stars through the glass, eyes moving back and forth, focused on the bright lights. The filter wasn’t up - you were seeing the unfiltered view, and you were thankful for it. You’d spent more time in hyperspace than out on the Razor II, and it was a rare treat for you to be moving at a normal speed through the galaxy, even though you knew the man would have preferred to be taking the faster route. But he didn’t. He could have, and he … As you ate, you let your mind wander, and because of that, were surprised to hear the man saying your name some time later. I didn’t even hear him. “I’m finished.” You swiveled the seat to your left, toward the sound of his voice. “Thank you for your help today.” 

 The gratitude floored you, your eyes widening. “Of course. We might as well make the most of the kid not being here, right? At least we’ll have a week before we have to worry about the crates being covered in crumbs, or sticky little handprints on the walls.” He chuckled at that. “It’s kind of strange though, right? I keep thinking I’m going to hear him, or that he’s going to pop up -”

 “That’s how it was after Skywalker took him.” Din’s grip on the top of the chair tightened, fingers curling against the leather. “Even though he’d never been on the freighter I took from the light cruiser bay, I looked for him.” Oh, so I guess we’re talking. Swallowing the last of your meal, you waited, not wanting to interrupt. “There were even times on Mandalore when I …” The Mandalorian stopped, taking a deep breath. “I know he’s coming back this time, and it makes it easier, but I …” He nodded. “This is the first time you’ve been away from him, right?” It is. You realized it as he spoke, lips parting, your head turning away from him. I didn’t even … “You’ll get used to the quiet, but maybe … maybe not in a week.” This could be a … this could be what it feels like to have Grogu stay here. If I have to go back by myself.

You knew it was a possibility. Knew that Grogu could potentially choose to remain with Din, not returning to the Academy, but it hadn’t felt real until that moment - in the relative silence of the Razor II, knowing that Grogu was already hours away. “Oh, Maker.” Your voice wavered and you winced at the sound. I’m so glad he can’t read me. “Do you … is there any alcohol on board, Din? I need …” You looked back up at him, feeling tears in your eyes. “I need a drink.” 

 There was another chuckle at your question, which confused you. Why is he laughing? “That’s actually what I wanted to talk with you about.” What? “Usually, when I have help, my partners and I meet so they can have a drink, like with Karga and the pucks.” Slowly turning your head back to look at him, you waited. “It was that way when we were looking for the kid, too. The planning?” I get it. “But now? For the people that … have seen me?” He sighed, and you felt your sadness shifting, heart pounding and a chill running through your body as it changed to intrigue. “I can share a drink with them while we… talk things over.” 

 “Lucky them.” The words slipped out but you made no move to deny or correct them, though they gave the man pause. “And that has to be -”

 “Will you have a drink with me?” He didn’t hesitate with the question, shifting his weight from one foot to the other behind his chair. “We can go downstairs, seal the hatch up here. It gets completely dark down there. You wouldn’t … won’t see me.” He wants to … what? Blinking furiously, you didn’t know how to reply. “I have some bottles of ale, so it would -”

 “Yes.” You stood as you spoke, fatigue all but forgotten at the opportunity to get to know the man over a drink. Even though I won’t see, I’ll still hear. I … “Yes, Din. I think that’s a … I need a drink.” Or three. At your surprised reaction to his suggestion, you let your guard down - and it allowed another crystal clear thought into your head: Din was relieved that you’d said yes, because he’d believed you would say no. I’ll have to ask him about that. Gathering your trash, you gestured toward the door, the man letting go of the seat and turning to his side. 

 As you walked by him, you realized that he hadn’t put the second layer or any of his armor back on. The man was standing in front of you in only socks, pants and an undershirt - along with the helmet. Don’t think about that. Not now. “I’ll meet you downstairs. Give me a minute.” Off balance at the way the night was going, you didn’t argue, already stepping through the doors and onto the small platform. I don’t even know what to think. This could  be… Your thoughts racing, you began making your way down the ladder. Oh, Maker. I’m going to need your help here, because there’s so much I want to talk to him about.

 ---

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