#ready willing and gable | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

doodle-do-wop · 6 months ago

Text

Okay so (Doodle never shutting up about Stina again) I have a HC that the Horse Girls; Linh, Marella, Maruca, Stina, and Tam (yes Tam is a Horse Girl) and later in life Fitz (tbh not that much later considering how he was treated in Stellarlune but whatever) have the most ridiculous hang outs

Like they hang out pretty often to the point where Vika will set extra places at dinner even if Maruca isn't coming over and since the Heks have pretty great food (Neverseen was a bad patch cause there was a bloody plague happening) the people actually at the table will nobly sacrifice themselves and eat the extra plate

And by ridiculous hang outs I mean RIDICULOUS hang outs

They go to a lake, just a normal pretty lake, and the next thing you know they're having a contest to see who can swing off of a very precarious tree branch and poorly tied rope and have the best jump in, Maruca isn't participating because she can't swim, Linh has started trapping Tam's stuff in big water bubbles, Fitz is convinced Tarzan yelling helps with the swinging part, Marella is dead last in the points for the jumping competition that has gotten way out of hand, the gang is half sure Linh is cheating with her hydrokinesis, and Stina broke the branch they were using because Grizle told her to fix the knot on the rope

Okay maybe let's go back to Sleepover, maybe those are normal? WRONG! None of these kids have ever been normal in their lives (except maybe Stina but she's a big marble growing up as a farm kid who prefers talking to Unicorns over people). Stina normally hosts their sleepovers cause Sterling Gables is just a very cozy place and despiste how most people view the Hekses, they're great hosts.

Their sleepovers get just out of hand as regular hang outs do. During numerous sleepovers the following has occurred;

Marella fell off of the balcony attached to Stina's room

Stina jumped after her and grabbed her by the ankle

Fitz has been given a total of 13 make overs and they have yet to find a way to make him less glamorous (they're not really trying he's just a more willing participant than Tam and he has the cutest giggle when they apply blush on his cheeks)

Linh won hide and seek by legitimately hiding in Stina's bed because the girl has a ton of stuffed animals and even more blankets than is ever needed (she gets cold easily)

Linh fell asleep during hide and seek because the bed was just so cozy

They managed to convince Grizle to let them play the elf version of light as a feather thin as a board in Fitz because that totally didn't go wrong for Marella (who btw has a bit of a fear of heights and an even bigger fear of herself or others throwing themselves off of heights)

Good news: they hovered him over Stina's bed

Bad news: he landed on Linh

Good news: they found Linh! (No one told her they were fully ready to send out the Linh Finding Squad (aka just Tam))

Pillow fights, lots of pillow fights

Stina is the easiest target to hit during pillow fights because she's the biggest target (Marella uses her as a shield)

Fitz gets so competitive so fast and Maruca loves the practice for her shields

This results in a lot of pillow fluff and feathers going everywhere

They do truth or dare but it's less about crushes and giggling and more doing stupid dares because what truths can they tell? They already know Linh is the younger yet taller twin, Stina's ticklish, Maruca was the last one of the group to be potty trained, Marella can't whistle, Fitz had to call Della but she did confirm for Fitz that he didn't have a blankie despite Maruca saying he, and I quote, "looks like a blankie kid"

Marella is up in the scoreboards by four dares, one of which she was dared to eat a unicorn treat by Stina (Stina insisted they were edible for elves but no one believed her)

If the Horse Girls and the Sophie Squad (nickname given to them by Stina and Maruca back in Level Two) had a big sleepover together I can only imagine chaos ensuing

genuinely asking here,,, what are your guys thoughts on all the kotlc sleepover fics??, I personally love them (when they're written by someone who can write and is not a 10 year old on Wattpad) because I get to see my babies have fun and stuff

most sleepover fics i've read are either written by a 12/13-15 year old user who can write REALLY well, or a 10 or 11 year old who,, tries their best.

like in almost every kotlc sleepover fic they do truth or dare,, its so cliche but I actually love it a lot ToT there's always the 'tell us who your crush is' and then the character proceeds to mumble their crushes name and then says ' you never said to say it at a reasonable volume >:D"

that last bit is usually for the 11/12 year olds; I roll my eyes because its so over used now but honestly iJUHYGTFRD

and then there's the bad part, where the young writers (10-12) are hate fitz and then proceed to make Fitz punch Keefe because he wants to be with Sophie..

sigh.

ANYWAYS its 99.8% of the time always fluffy and cute and 40% of the time written by a 10 year old but its FINE because my children are having a good time having a sleepover that almost always takes place at Everglen <3

#kotlc #keeper of the lost cities #maruca chebota #kotlc maruca #marella redek #kotlc marella #stina heks #kotlc stina #tam wildwood #Linh wildwood #tam song #linh song #fitz vacker #kotlc Fitz #the Horse Girls are menaces #Maruca cant swim yet insists on places with a pool of water

87 notes · View notes

clarklovescarole · 2 years ago

Text

June 1939: Chicken Ranchers

June 7, 1939 – The Pittsburgh Press

That deep-throated voice that echoes across San Fernando valley clucking “Here chick-chick-chick,” is known around the world.

It’s the voice of Clark Gable and is usually accompanied by the voice of his bride. Carole Lombard, also calling “chick-chick-chick.”

Gable and Carole are now farmers in fact. A friend presented them with 300 chicks and an incubator and they have gone in for chicken ranching in earnest.

June 7, 1939 – Buffalo Evening News

Talking about sport, Gary Cooper and his wife won the Santa Monica skeet shooting tournament last Saturday, and have issued a challenge to Mr. and Mrs. Clark Gable. I think the Coopers will win. Carole is quite good, but Mrs. Cooper is better. And the men are about equal.

June 9, 1939 – The Times

Clark Gable and Carole Lombard of the movies have engaged in the fruit and vegetable business and were recently given honorary membership in the California Fruit Growers exchange.

June 10, 1939 – Los Angeles Times

No truth in the report that Carole Lombard and Clark Gable will adopt a baby. But Carole may retire after her next picture to have one of her own. She’s so sensible and sane, it’s frightening. She realizes the danger of having two careers in one family. They’ve been rumored going abroad, Yosemite, Painted Desert, Canada for vacation honeymooning. My hunch is they’ll stay home on the ranch.

June 13, 1939 – Spokesman Review

Clark Gable wants to play the Tom Joad role in "Grapes of Wrath" – but not until after his European honeymoon with Carole Lombard. They will be away two months – unless Clark has a hurry call for retakes on “Gone with the Wind,” which, believe it or not, will be completed next week – according to David Selznick.

June 15, 1939 – Daily News

Carole Lombard and Clark Gable haven’t had a honeymoon. The poor kids had to work int wo pictures that will give them a nest egg of $275,000… Sixty per cent of that goes back to the man with the whiskers, however…

June 19, 1939 – Atlantic City Press

Clark Gable and Carole Lombard are perfectly willing to talk about anything under the sun – except each other and their home life. Carole says she’s superstitious about telling what a wonderful guy Clark is and Gable says he’s afraid he might jinx his wife if he started enumerating her many lovable qualities.��Good sense in Hollywood.

June 21, 1939 – San Pedro News

Maybe it’s just my imagination but Carole Lombard’s speech seems to have acquired new dignity since she’s become Mrs. Gable. Addressing Annabella as “Mrs. Power,” and you’re sure to be rewarded with a gratified smile. No one can charm an unfriendly dog quicker than Jean Parker.

June 22, 1939 – Windsor Star

With her RKO picture finished, Carole Lombard gets a month’s vacation, but she refuses to leave town without Clark Gable. And so she’s going to putter around the ranch until he finishes “Gone” and then they’ll take a vacation together, mayhap to the Painted Desert, Europe… who knows?

June 24, 1939 – The Wilkes Bar

Clark Gable and Carole Lombard holding hands at the Café Lamaze as Matty Malneck plays “The Man I Love” …

June 25, 1939 – The Charlotte Observer

Along the matrimonial front: minor tiffs and clashes of temperament recently have marred the pace and harmony of Clark Gable and Carole Lombard’s domestic life. After these little flare-ups and differences the one who was wrong has admitted his or her mistake and expressed regret.

To emphasize their good-sportsmanship, these famous two have dispatched stuff “doves of peace” to each other during working hours. Thus far, he has sent her four times as many of these tokens as she has forwarded to him. She has just completed a chore at RKO, and is ready to hop off on that honeymoon Clark and she promised themselves. His current assignment at MGM compels him to keep his nose to the grindstone; but a prospect flutters that he will shortly be able to tear away for an abbreviated freedom within a month.

June 30, 1939 – Fort Worth Star Telegram

There’s been skullduggery on the honeymoon ranch of Clark Gable and Carole Lombard.

While the film stars slept, two shadowy figures crept past their house and to the chicken pen a quarter of a block away.

In the pen, also sleeping, were six prize hens and a prize rooster that Andy Devine, comedian, presented to Gable on the star’s birthday.

Frantic squawks assailed the air. Gable leaped out of bed, grabbed a pistol and dashed for the chicken house.

This was no movie, however, and the thieves made a getaway, carrying with them the six prize hens. Sole survivor of the raid was the rooster – and he was minus a handful of tail feathers.

#1939 #clark gable #carole lombard #old hollywood

0 notes

dinaive · 2 years ago

Text

Beowulf

(translated by Francis B. Gummere)

Part 1

LO, praise of the prowess of people-kings

of spear-armed Danes, in days long sped,

we have heard, and what honor the athelings won!

Oft Scyld the Scefing from squadroned foes,

from many a tribe, the mead-bench tore,

awing the earls. Since erst he lay

friendless, a foundling, fate repaid him:

for he waxed under welkin, in wealth he throve,

till before him the folk, both far and near,

who house by the whale-path, heard his mandate,

gave him gifts: a good king he!

To him an heir was afterward born,

a son in his halls, whom heaven sent

to favor the folk, feeling their woe

that erst they had lacked an earl for leader

so long a while; the Lord endowed him,

the Wielder of Wonder, with world’s renown.

Famed was this Beowulf: far flew the boast of him,

son of Scyld, in the Scandian lands.

So becomes it a youth to quit him well

with his father’s friends, by fee and gift,

that to aid him, aged, in after days,

come warriors willing, should war draw nigh,

liegemen loyal: by lauded deeds

shall an earl have honor in every clan.

Forth he fared at the fated moment,

sturdy Scyld to the shelter of God.

Then they bore him over to ocean’s billow,

loving clansmen, as late he charged them,

while wielded words the winsome Scyld,

the leader beloved who long had ruled....

In the roadstead rocked a ring-dight vessel,

ice-flecked, outbound, atheling’s barge:

there laid they down their darling lord

on the breast of the boat, the breaker-of-rings,

by the mast the mighty one. Many a treasure

fetched from far was freighted with him.

No ship have I known so nobly dight

with weapons of war and weeds of battle,

with breastplate and blade: on his bosom lay

a heaped hoard that hence should go

far o’er the flood with him floating away.

No less these loaded the lordly gifts,

thanes’ huge treasure, than those had done

who in former time forth had sent him

sole on the seas, a suckling child.

High o’er his head they hoist the standard,

a gold-wove banner; let billows take him,

gave him to ocean. Grave were their spirits,

mournful their mood. No man is able

to say in sooth, no son of the halls,

no hero ‘neath heaven, — who harbored that freight!

Now Beowulf bode in the burg of the Scyldings,

leader beloved, and long he ruled

in fame with all folk, since his father had gone

away from the world, till awoke an heir,

haughty Healfdene, who held through life,

sage and sturdy, the Scyldings glad.

Then, one after one, there woke to him,

to the chieftain of clansmen, children four:

Heorogar, then Hrothgar, then Halga brave;

and I heard that — was —’s queen,

the Heathoscylfing’s helpmate dear.

To Hrothgar was given such glory of war,

such honor of combat, that all his kin

obeyed him gladly till great grew his band

of youthful comrades. It came in his mind

to bid his henchmen a hall uprear,

a master mead-house, mightier far

than ever was seen by the sons of earth,

and within it, then, to old and young

he would all allot that the Lord had sent him,

save only the land and the lives of his men.

Wide, I heard, was the work commanded,

for many a tribe this mid-earth round,

to fashion the folkstead. It fell, as he ordered,

in rapid achievement that ready it stood there,

of halls the noblest: Heorot he named it

whose message had might in many a land.

Not reckless of promise, the rings he dealt,

treasure at banquet: there towered the hall,

high, gabled wide, the hot surge waiting

of furious flame. Nor far was that day

when father and son-in-law stood in feud

for warfare and hatred that woke again.

With envy and anger an evil spirit

endured the dole in his dark abode,

that he heard each day the din of revel

high in the hall: there harps rang out,

clear song of the singer. He sang who knew

tales of the early time of man,

how the Almighty made the earth,

fairest fields enfolded by water,

set, triumphant, sun and moon

for a light to lighten the land-dwellers,

and braided bright the breast of earth

with limbs and leaves, made life for all

of mortal beings that breathe and move.

So lived the clansmen in cheer and revel

a winsome life, till one began

to fashion evils, that field of hell.

Grendel this monster grim was called,

march-riever mighty, in moorland living,

in fen and fastness; fief of the giants

the hapless wight a while had kept

since the Creator his exile doomed.

On kin of Cain was the killing avenged

by sovran God for slaughtered Abel.

Ill fared his feud, and far was he driven,

for the slaughter’s sake, from sight of men.

Of Cain awoke all that woful breed,

Etins and elves and evil-spirits,

as well as the giants that warred with God

weary while: but their wage was paid them!

WENT he forth to find at fall of night

that haughty house, and heed wherever

the Ring-Danes, outrevelled, to rest had gone.

Found within it the atheling band

asleep after feasting and fearless of sorrow,

of human hardship. Unhallowed wight,

grim and greedy, he grasped betimes,

wrathful, reckless, from resting-places,

thirty of the thanes, and thence he rushed

fain of his fell spoil, faring homeward,

laden with slaughter, his lair to seek.

0 notes

chadbaegel · 3 years ago

Text

#chad gable #wwe #chas betts #american alpha #alpha academy #jaspn jordan #ready willing and gable #wwe mayhem #2018

4 notes · View notes

thedevilsfavoriteinsuranceagent · 8 years ago

Text

Jordan ducking out of the way when Gable swings the title around is the best thing to happen since Naomi and Becky won.

It doesn’t sound like much, but it is.

#jason jordan #chad gable #american alpha #ready willing and gable

4 notes · View notes

georgiapeach30513 · 2 years ago

Note

Can we maybe see the next instalment to the Otto-Brooksie-Annie drama? Will Annie finally find out about Brooksie’s infidelity? 🥺

Okay, so the next installment isn't as much about Otto/Annie/Brookie. It's a bit of a bonding moment between Carter and his kids. But does Brookie show up to the family vacation? Keep in mind that EVERY one of the Baizen's will be there. Along with Annie and Daisy. Even Zephyr's daughters Veda and Rosie are there. Story and Carter wanted Z to be able to enjoy himself, Veda always needs to have someone around her. She always needs to be touching someone. We'll eventually get into that mess.

🖤🖤🖤🖤

I’m Bringing Blankets

Summary: First night with the Baizen’s in the Hamptons

Pairings: The Baizen’s

Rating: mild

Warnings: language, underage drinking, drug use (marijuana/mushrooms), Illiana's mouth, 18+ ONLY

Word Count: 3.2K

Desperate Lives AU Masterlist

Otto Baizen Masterlist

Otto tags a swig of his beer, trying to watch the girls. Trying to get out of his head, and remove Annie. It was a failing game. It was the last night of just him and the girls before his family came for the rest of the week. And of course Illiana had used her puppy dog eyes to let them go out to a local bar. He of course thought it was a terrible idea, but Illiana had appealed to his better nature. He loses focus on them dancing with each other the moment that Annie sat down at their table.

“You look deep in thought?”

“Are you not?” he asks her with a smirk. She nods her head, and reaches for his beer bottle. “Careful now, you’re underage, Annie Gables.”

“One sip won’t hurt anyone,” their conversation was too easy. She had thought about Brooks less and less. And even dreaded the thought of going home. Scared of what she would find. Over a week of him alone, and his favorite excuse for his recent behavior was right in front of her. His own brother.

He gives her a timid smile, before looking back down at the table. Otto didn’t get nervous in front of women, and here he sat, unsure what to say to the pretty redhead. “You ready for the rest of your family to be here?”

“Ready for ten more Baizen’s? I guess. Brookie coming?” Annie is the one to look at the table shrugging.

“Haven’t heard from him. He’s really busy at work,” really busy working on another woman. She has to bite at her lip, so she doesn’t cry. Unsure of how she’s going to go back. Ashamed that it’s him sleeping with someone else, and not the drugs that makes her want to leave.

“Annie, you deserve so much more than that. You need someone who will love and cherish you,” she looks up at Otto, and he reaches over to cup her cheek. The two having one of the many tender moments they’d had the past few days.

Iclynn stops her dancing to stare at the two. Confusion wasn’t even the word. She knew something was going on between Brooks and Annie, but now there was something blooming between her and Otto. “Ow, jackass,” she shouts at an older man who bumps into her.

“Well, look what we have here. Aren’t you girls a pretty bunch?”

“In your fucking dreams, asshat. Leave,” Illiana gives him a less than polite shove, while Daisy moves further away. Looking over to the table where Otto and Annie are, and bites at her lip. “Excuse me, I didn’t fucking stutter.”

“Ills, shut up,” Iclynn pulls her little sister back.

“A bunch of college girls, trying to sneak into this exclusive club. Which dick did you suck to get in here? I’ll give you another, and we can go to the VIP room,” Iclynn pulls at Illiana to get them away from the situation. “Oh, come on sweet cheeks. You’re ruining all the fun.”

“My pussy cost a lot more than you’re willing to spend.”

“Sugar baby, huh? You want daddy’s money?”

“Oh my god. I already got daddy’s money. Leave us alone!” Iclynn tries dragging her sister away, but Illiana was just getting started.

“You looking for a new daddy?” his eyes look hungrily at Daisy who rubs along her chest, tears in her eyes, and she only looks at Otto.

“My father has more than enough money. I don’t need your cheap ass,” Iclynn begins to get uncomfortable with the talk of money, even giving a yell of Otto’s name. The crowd backs further away from them, and she grabs Daisy's hand.

“You fucking bitch.”

“What did you just say to me?”

“Ills! Stop,” Iclynn reaches for her hand, and starts dragging her over to Otto, who finally takes a glance at the girls, and sees Iclynn trying to drag his sister, while Daisy has worried her chest to a deep red shade. “Just leave us alone. We’re leaving.”

“Shit,” Otto jumps up, jogging over to the situation. Looking over the girls, before pushing them behind his back. “What the hell are you doing to a bunch of high schoolers?”

“New money.”

“It’s the fucking Hamptons, man. Most of us have money. Who cares where it’s from.”

“These your bitches?” he squares up with Otto who gives him a devilish smirk.

“They’re my sisters.”

“Yeah, you’re a bitch, too.”

“Mr. Baizen,” the owner of the bar, steps beside the two of the men, eyeing up Otto. “Is everything okay?”

“This man has had too much to drink. And he was making advances on a minor.”

“What?”

“She didn’t give you the time of day, and she’s only seventeen, asshole,” with a snap of the owner’s fingers, he apologizes having the gentleman escorted. “Ills, I’ve told you about running that damn mouth of yours.”

“I can’t help it. He started it. Made it out like we just snuck in here. I didn’t even mention that Archie invested in this place.”

“Doesn’t matter. Grab your stuff. We’re going to the house,” Illiana whines at Otto, but Daisy and Iclynn scurry off to the table. “Ills, I’m not playing, and I’m not in the mood.”

“Can we have a drink? Please? Please? Please?”

“Fine, a bottle of wine or something,” he tells her as he pulls her to the table. Giving a quick, sorry to Daisy and Annie. “Wait, have any of you three had a breakup?” Annie snorts, looking between the three of them.

“No.” “Not recently.” “I’m a virgin.”

“Right,” he says, giving an odd look to Daisy. “If you stay in the house, away from water, you can have either a bottle of wine to share or some Ciroc and raspberry lemonade. Not both Illiana or I’m telling dad.”

“Narc, but honestly, thank you for being so generous with our alcohol consumption. Annie joining this time? I mean,” Otto narrows his eyes at her. “We’ve stayed in the room, and you didn’t notice. I stop them before they puke.”

“I stop you, before you make a fool of yourself on the phone,” Illiana shushes Iclynn quickly, giving her brother a sweet smile. Otto knows he’s in over his head with them, but tomorrow his family was arriving. “Can’t take it back, Otts. We’ll be good.”

_______________________________

Annie sits on the couch too close, and not close enough to Otto. The two nursing a beer as they watch some stupid movie and for the first time at ease. Able to hear the triplets giggling loudly on the other end of the house, but they were in their own bubble. Annie didn’t think about Brooks. Just carries on an easy conversation with Otto.

The next morning Carter walks in with Zephyr and slams the door to the house, when he sees Annie and Otto asleep on the couch. Both of them sit up, staring wide eyed at the man. Zephyr gives a quick little chuckle, “You’re in trouble.”

“Zephyr, go help your mother with the girls. Rosie can’t carry her own luggage.”

“Yep.”

“Annie, I need a moment with my son,” Annie had never seen Carter angry before, and it didn't take much for her to run towards the door, “Go get my daughters and Daisy. They can help bring in everything else,” she nods her head, and hopes she can wake them up. “Otto.”

“Not in the mood,” he says, going to stand, and walk towards the back balcony.

“I really don’t give a fuck what you’re in the mood for,” Carter follows right along with Otto, before his son stops. “What the hell are you doing?”

“Dad, it’s not what it looks like.”

“Not what it looks like? It looks like you were sleeping on the couch with a pretty redhead, who just so happens to be your brother’s girlfriend. Otto, we don’t do this. We’re Baizen’s.”

“I’m not,” Carter’s angry stare turns more into a hurt confused look. “I’m not a Baizen. I’m a fucking Barber. Isn’t that what Lydia calls me? This is what I do. I sleep with my brother’s girlfriends. Except we didn’t do anything. She…Brooks hasn’t even talked to her.”

“You are too a Baizen. That’s all you’ve ever been. Because I chose you and you chose me. You don’t remember it, but you reacted to my touch more than your bastard sperm donor ever did. If I ever hear you talk about you not being a Baizen again, I’m cutting you off.”

“I’ve made my own money.”

“Otto, this isn’t you. This insecure person who is doing whatever that is, with his brother’s girlfriend. Brookie looks up to you.”

“And looks down to his girlfriend. God, I know you don’t see it, because he wants to pretend he’s got everything under control, but he’s an ass to her. He expects her to be just like mom, and do everything for him with a smile on her face. The difference is he’s demanding it, and doesn’t treat her with respect. I know not every woman is going to be like mom and do everything for her husband and kids first. But you’ve always respected her, and never expected it. Dad, it’s not fair. He doesn’t love her. I do.”

Carter looks up at his son, looking more like an eighteen-year-old instead of his thirty-year-old self. He’s never been in love, or loved a girl for the past few months. Never had a girl meet the family. Never got personal with them. “This isn’t happening. Her and Brooks need to come to that conclusion. Otto, Baizen’s don’t cheat,” Otto scoffs at him, starting to walk into the house, hearing Rosie giggle, while Veda is begging to be held. “Otto, you put a stop to this. Your brother’s girlfriends are off limits. And if you think your mother won’t notice.”

“I got it. Baizen’s don’t cheat. We’re faithful, honorable. Just remember that.”

“What does that even mean?”

“I’m sure it’ll eventually come out.”

“I’ve never even noticed another woman, besides your mother, since she was seventeen.”

“Not you! God, not everything is about you! Not all of us have this picture perfect life with the woman of our dreams. Just drop it. I’ll stay away from Annie,” spinning on his heel he walks inside to see Audriana squeal at seeing Annie.

“Is he here? Annie, is my Brookie here?”

“No, sweet girl. Maybe we can call him later,” Audriana’s face falls for a moment before Carter comes up behind her, to pick her up, spinning his baby around in a circle. “Mr. Baizen, it’s not what it seems.”

Story looks over at Carter, with a toddler Rosie in her arms, giving him and Annie an questioning look, “I understand. I think you have some things to think about, and process though. How about, the rest of you lot, go get bathing suits on. We’re going on the boat.”

“My king?”

“Story, not now. Go get Veda and Rosie dressed. Zephyr’s going to help me get the boat ready. Arlo, you, too. Don’t go near the girls’ bedroom, just straight out to the boat.”

“Yes, sir,” Arlo says. He walks past Zephyr who gives him a playful smack to the back of the head.

“Baizen, you go easy on that sweet boy. He’s done nothing wrong, but start dating your oldest princess. Come on, Rosie Osie, let's get you and sissy your new bathing suits on.”

“And then, I get to be back with Daddy?”

“Yes, Veda. You’ll get to be with daddy the rest of the day, okay?” Zephyr grabs up his oldest daughter, tossing her in the air, before he peppers kisses all over her. Thanking his mom for getting them dressed. “Maybe daddy can find him a nice girl to bring home.”

“Ma!”

“I’m just saying. I made pretty babies. And not one of you but Brookie has a steady girlfriend.”

“Hey!”

“Baby, I’m sorry,” she walks past Raiden, giving him a sweet little belly rub. “I just like grandbabies, not from you, though. You finish school first. Sorry Birdie,” the sweet girl gives her a smile, but agrees completely. “Come on girlies, let's get dressed, and go on the boat.”

_______________________

Otto sits on the sand, hearing his family giggling and laughing in the pool behind him. This had been a draining day at best. Every part of him had longed to keep touching Annie. He doesn’t want to toot his own horn, but he’s pretty sure she wanted it, too. He looks out to the horizon, wishing he would have grabbed a joint from Zephyr, because he could really use the escape.

He hated this. Hated feeling that he was in a constant losing battle. “Otts,” Zephyr laughs, throwing a plastic shovel at Otto’s back. “I brought the good stuff,” lighting up the joint, he passes it over to Otto for a quick toke. “So, what’s going on?”

“Nothing.”

“Nothing, as in a pretty redhead, Otto obsessed with redheads, said redhead is dating baby brother?”

“Nothing,” Otto deadpans, taking another drag.

“You were on the couch sleeping together.”

“Nothing happened.”

“Yeah. My wife had a man sleeping on our couch, too. A few of them actually. Passed out in various rooms of our house, remember that? Remember me finding her passed out in the bathroom, with Rosie crying on the floor? I couldn’t find Veda.”

“This is different. Don’t guilt trip me.”

“It’s different, because you’re not on drugs?” Otto shrugs, unsure where to take this conversation. “Look, you could seriously get any girl.”

“So could you.”

“I’m healing. Gimme that shit,” he grabs the pot from Otto, taking a long puff. “Man, sometimes I just want something to pound into. But I don’t know about relationships,” Otto snorts, looking at his brother. “Yeah, I know. I fall in love fast, and that’s how I ended up with a psycho bitch. Got two of the most beautiful girls in the world though. And Otto who doesn’t date, but is falling for your brother’s girl. You know he’s only dating her because she’s a redhead. He only wants to be just like you.”

“Yep, it’s true,” Archer reaches for the joint, before sitting down. “Raiden won’t be joining us. He’s in training. He doesn’t just know I brought some mushrooms.”

“God, don’t give that giant psychedelics. Who is going to carry him when he’s tripping? Archie don’t! You hit send. Explain that to mom.”

“Explain what to your mother?” Carter asks, sitting down between Zephyr and Archie, his hands already reaching for the joint.

“That Archie brought hallucinogens for Raiden.”

“Hey, I want that guy to have fun. It flushes out of your system. Practice will be a breeze for him. Why is he getting drug tested? He’s not in season. It’s spring,” Zephyr shrugs, while Carter laughs. “Ah! There he comes now. Big guy,” reaching in his pocket, he throws the bag of pills to him. “Arleigh made these last week. You’re good.”

“You’re giving me drugs my future mother-in-law made? This feels wrong. Dad, have you ever taken drugs from Mimi?”

“No. From Papa, yes. Gummies.”

“Papa doesn’t,” Carter nods his head at Archer, who starts laughing. “I want to see Papa high.”

“No. You don’t. Trust me on that. I wish Brooks could be here.”

“Yeah, but he’s working,” Carter shoots a glaring look at Otto, taking another hit from the joint before handing it to Zephyr. “He’s always working.”

“And you’re always here. By the way, I moved into your spacious office. I figured you weren’t coming back. Ow,” Archer grabs his arm, where Otto had elbowed him. “What’s the deal with Brookie? Is he starting a branch or a company? Should have already had that up and running,” Zephyr gives a quick nudge to Otto, shaking his head. “Rai, how many of those did you take?”

“Five. Me big boy. Me handle it fine.”

“You caveman. It’s a wonder how you’ve managed to get Birdie Mae.”

“Because I’m not looking for someone to replace mom? Just a thought. Stop it, or face the wrath of Rai Man,” he gives Archer a karate chop. “There’s only one mom. Dad’s already scored her.”

“Ten times,” all the boys groan, and kick a bit of sand at him. “Easy. Boys, all I have ever wanted is for you to feel fulfilled in your life. Whether it’s alone, with a man or with a woman. Just be fulfilled and happy.”

“And happy!” Zephyr reaches behind him to a cooler, passing everyone a beer, but Raiden. “Sorry, you’re a minor.”

“For like four months. Gimme that.”

____________________________________________

Story stands at the top of the steps watching her boys. Their laughter is carried on the wind, but she never goes to sleep without telling Carter goodnight. Veda and Rosie already asleep in her bed beside Audriana, so she has a small window. She wishes that her itty bitty baby could be here. Misses him more everyday since he doesn’t call.

This is what she had always hoped for. Carter surrounded by his boys, being able to be their friend instead of just their father. And her husband looked so happy. Even with his high as a kite laugh. With a sigh, she picks up her dress, hearing her biggest baby cry in distress.

“Raiden, quit your screaming.”

“It’s no good. Ma!” he gets excited as she walks down to them. Leaning over Carter to give him a kiss. “Mom, I need belly rubs.”

“How is she going to rub your belly with chicken feet for hands?” Zephyr laughs laying back on the sand.

“Mama, why do you have chicken feet on your hands?”

“Oh, good grief,” she says, placing a hand on Raiden’s belly, giving him a little belly rub. “Zephyr Christopher, would you please stop it.”

“That’s not my name.”

“It is now. You want to torture my baby. You get a new name.”

“You called me Zephyr Christopher. I’m Zephyr Anders. Take it back.”

“Yeah, well, I can’t put you boys in timeout anymore, so I call you the wrong name,” she gives Raiden a pat to his belly, and kisses the top of his head. Making her rounds, to kiss all of them good night.”

“I mean, she’s called me Carter James Baizen.”

“You called dad after uncle Jamey,” Zephyr’s eyes completely closes, as he gives his dad a dopey laugh.

“No she didn’t!” Archer squeals.

“I’ve been Otto Steven before.”

“I’m Archer Beck. Caught her calling Brookie, Brooks Buchanan Baizen.”

“Ma! You are over here switching are names passive aggressively. What’s Raiden’s? Go on. Tell us what the baby boy’s name is,” Zephyr asks, still laying back on the sand, his own hands starting to rub his belly.

“I’m Raiden Jensen. Mom? Seriously, what are we gonna do about your hands? My belly still feels funny.”

“Go find Birdie Mae.”

“Oh! Okay. Burd-Dee! I’m coming, baby. No I’m not,” he sits back down, falling back to look up at the moon. “When will it stop?”

“What is he on Baizen?” giving Carter a little tug to his hair, to look up at her. “Baizen?”

“I didn’t do it. That was Archie.”

“He would never.”

“He did, Ma. And Zeph turned you into a chicken.”

“I’m bringing blankets. Baizen, don’t let any of you drown. I’m quite fond of you guys most of the time, but maybe you need to sleep out here.”

“My Queen, I’ll make sure all of us make it up to the house shortly. I’ve spent enough nights away from you. I won’t be spending another. How many are in our bed?”

“The youngest three. Audi is a bit upset that her Brookie isn’t here. Maybe you should call him?” Otto rolls his eyes, before laying into the sand. “He can at least spend a day and a night. Take Annie home with him. It’s out of the way for us. We’ll make sure she gets home, but still.”

“I’ll call him,” she turns to leave, but Carter grabs her hand, “I love you Story Baizen.”

“Love you, too, Sir Lancelot.”

“Eh!”

“I love you Carter Rory Baizen.”

Masterlist

14 notes · View notes

lubdubsworld · 4 years ago

Text

Insatiable ( Jungkook x OC) Chapter 2

Pairing : Jeon Jungkook x OC

Rating 18+

Genre : Vampire Au!!!! , DILF! Jungkook ! Bodyguard AU! Babysitter OC! Age difference!!! [ bet you’ve never seen all of this in one fic before? ]

[ Some notes : Born Vampires stop aging when they turn twenty five. Turned vampires stop aging when they’re turned. ]

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

“You alright?” Somi asked gently, watching me fling my backpack into the corner of the room with enough force to dislodge one of the wooden panels on the wall, the shelf crashing and bringing down the two potted plants on it. The sound of ceramic shattering made me wince, regret churning in my stomach.

“Yeah...yeah. Oh, God. I’m so sorry, Somi.. I broke your pots-”

“Never mind the pots...why do you look so upset? Have you been crying?” She demanded , reaching for me, hands curling around my wrists and drawing me into a hug and I swallowed, my throat dry and eyes swollen from all the tears that I’d wrung out of them.

Outside the room, Namjoon stood guard, at the door and I felt guilty remembering how the past three hours had gone.

After confronting Jungkook, I’d stormed off in righteous indignation and poor Namjoon had been forced to follow.

He had kept a discreet distance as I climbed to the tallest ridge on the roof, scaling the gables with ease and I knew he had been terrified at the prospect of me falling.

Immortal or not a three hundred foot drop to the ground would be something that would hurt.

And it was my bodyguard’s job to make sure I did not get hurt.

When he wasn’t busy fucking other women that is.

I gripped my sister harder, fingers curling into the fir of her coat as I tried to catch my bearing.

“Do you know Helena?” I whispered, pulling away to look at her. Somi’s face fell,eyes filling with sympathy.

“Oh, no. Was she here?” She asked gently, reaching out and cupping my cheeks and my lips wobbled.

“Why didn’t you warn me that he was in a relationship?” my voice shook and Somi shook her head.

“He’s not!! God, Helena doesn’t do relationships. Jungkook and her.... well, I’m not sure but they’re just fuck buddies..... barely that. You know she’s from the Kim clan right? Those bloodsuckers never settle for one partner. “ She muttered.

I stared at her.

“He called me a child and then told me he’ll tell dad if i try to make a move on him.” I whispered.

Somi flinched.

“Sera....”

“It was humiliating and painful and I don’t ever want to think about it, ever again.” I muttered.

She sighed.

“It’s not like you don’t have men dying for a glance from you, Sera. You forget that you’re literally the most beautiful woman in the clan. If he rejects you, you’re definitely not the one missing out in that equation.”

I nodded, misery seeping into me. My sob-fest on the roof hadn’t been wasted. I was angry at first but now, a sort of resigned acceptance had taken the place of my anger.

The look on Jungkook’s face had been too real, the emotion behind his rejection too potent for me to get over. I wasn’t sure I could change his mind.

Wasn’t even sure if I wanted to.

“Was he very hurtful ? You know, if you tell dad, he’ll hire someone else and-”

“No.” I said immediately. “ I won’t do that. It’s not his fault, it’s minge. I acted out like a...well a child to be honest. He doesn’t owe me anything and he’s always been obvious in his disinterest. I was just too blinded my own attraction to consider that it wasn’t reciprocated.” I grimaced.

God, I’d been an idiot and Jungkook’s words had knocked some good sense into my head. But I did care for him and his son and they needed this job. I wouldn’t put his job in jeopardy just because I didn’t get my way.

I was better than that.

“Alright... Dad wanted to meet you for breakfast tomorrow.... He sounded serious. Do you know what that’s about?”

I groaned, when I remembered the reason my dad wanted to see me these days.

“Dad wants me to start meeting men now. He thinks I’m old enough now that i’ve turned 21. He’s been badgering me for a whole entire month but I kept putting him off because of...well, because of Jungkook.” I admitted.

Somi looked worried.

“You want to ? If you don’t we can talk to dad and-”

“No-” I shook my head.” I’m just gonna agree.”

Somi looked surprised.

“Are you sure? Sera you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to-”

I smiled weakly.

“I’m not going to be allowed to stay single forever Somi. Especially not when the entirety of dad’s day is spent trying to chase suitors away from the door. Do you know the Count from Jeju Do...dude’s a whole seven centuries old and he looks like a toad. He apparently tried to ask about me and Dad’s been freaking out. “ I shuddered.

Somi laughed.

“ That’s what you get for being you. But dad’s right. Keeping you away from everyone is only inviting more interest. And we don’t want you to be with someone insufferable.” She ruffled my hair and I hugged her again sighing into her shoulders.

No I didn’t want to be with someone who just saw me as some kind of a possession to be owned. I wanted someone nice and kind. A handsome man who did the right thing . Someone who maybe, worked hard to give his kid a safe and protected life, someone who didn’t shun away from hard work and was a gentleman as well.

Someone like-

“Someone other than Jungkook.” Somi said gently reading my mind.

“I really liked him.” I whispered softly, feeling tears spring again.

God, I thought I was all out of tears for Jeon Jung Kook but apparently I was wrong.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I took extra care with my makeup the next morning, because my father usually had a ton of business meetings during his breakfast. I didn’t usually bother but , I was going to agree to his suggestions today and well, nothing wrong in delighting my father. And nothing made him happier than seeing me prance about with pretty feminine clothes .

My dad, for all his jovial cheerful air, loved his position as the head of the Hwang clan. And as his most prized possession , I was the apple of his eye. And while he didn’t treat me as an object or anything ( my dad loved me deeply and his affection was always evident. ) , there was no mistaking the fact that my dad enjoyed the power that came with being my guardian. Powerful men were willing to bend to his will, just for a chance to be with me.

I sound insufferable, don’t I?

Trust me I’m not.

The vampires that court me are usually assholes. Entitled, brain dead assholes . When I opened the door in the morning, dressed in a short summer dress and ready to meet my dad, I was surprised to see Jungkook standing guard outside. He straightened away from the wall where he was fiddling with his phone, his gaze flitting to me, eyes cold and blank.

I bowed lightly, not smiling.

“Mr. Jeon. I have a breakfast date with my father and then I’ll be heading to the cottage. I’m also meeting a friend of mine at the Art Museum in the evening so i’ll need the Mercedes brought around to pick me up maybe at 5.00PM.” I said briskly, glancing at him.

My face flamed red when I noticed his gaze, fixed steadily on my ass. I cleared my throat angrily and his eyes met mine, a slow lazy grin playing around his mouth.

“You look different.” He commented , shamelessly giving me another once over.

The nerve.

I swallowed, willing myself not to blush harder.

“I’m sure I don’t know what you mean.”

He chuckled.

“That dress barely covers your butt, angel. You sure you want to head to daddy dearest, dressed like that?” The way he said daddy made my skin heat up.

I felt my jaw come unhinged.

“That’s...that is none of your damn business.” I said shrilly.

He gave me another once over.

“Okay, then. If that’s what you’re into...fine. Let’s go.”

Gritting my teeth, i tried to keep my face neutral. I would not give him the satisfaction of knowing that he got to me. I would not.

I walked ahead of him , my fists clenched and my jaw tight and I felt incredibly upset because the day had barely begun and I was already wound tight. I was supposed to be relaxed and clear headed while talking to my father but Jeon Jungkook had muddled my brains as usual.

I took deep breaths, trying to calm myself down.

“Sera, wait.” His voice made me pause and I stopped, turning around to glare at him.

“What?” I snapped.

He sighed, deeply. I watched as he ran his hands through his hair, tongue pressing into his cheek the way it did when he was upset.

“About last night-”

I felt my pulse quicken.

“I don’t wanna talk about it!” I said quickly, turning back around to leave but his fingers came around my arm, gripping hard .

“Well tough luck. Because I do!” He said sharply.

I whimpered, pain blooming up my arm and he swore, loosening his grip.

“I keep forgetting you’re human.” He muttered, “ I’m sorry... I just... I wanted to apologize for how i handled things last night. I was twenty once and I should have been more understanding.”

I closed my eyes. Oh, God no. Please, please for the love of God, let me hate you in peace. Don’t apologize and make me fall in love all over again.

“Its fine.” I choked out. “ You were right. I was out of line.”

“You deserve better.” He said quickly, eyes flitting away from my face and I felt a sharp pang in my heart. God , this was agonizing.

“Jungkook-”

“It’s just that you’re...well you know who you are. You can’t be with ...someone like me and trust me you don’t want to be with someone like me either. I know its appealing, the whole illusion of stability. older man, has a kid, has his life together .....but that’s not all it means .” He gave me a tired smile.

I bit my lips, ot replying and he went on.

“ I have baggage, a shit ton of it and I would have to be especially cruel to unload something like that on a girl barely out of her teens. I’ve done shit I’m not proud of ,....but ruining your life, I’m gonna draw the line there.” He smiled , looking a whole decade younger and I closed my eyes.

I was back to square one, I thought miserably. He had my whole heart.

“ So we’re good right?” He prompted and I exhaled, giving him a smile.

“We’re good.”

“That’s good. Because my son loves you and I would rather we be friends. You’re just like a daughter to me. ” He touched my face gently, pulling away at once, the small contact leaving fire in its wake and I had to clench my fists .

A daughter?!! Is he out of his damned mind?

“Okay.”

“Let’s go then.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Jungkook, please sit down. You’re like my son and I don’t want you hovering like you’re part of the backdrop. I’ve trusted you with my entire life.” My father beamed, pointing at me and i laughed.

Jungkook bowed respectfully, taking the chair next to me.

“How are you , my buttercup?” My father asked softly, fingers gripping mine and I smiled.

“I’m well, father. Do you like my dress?”

Next to me Jungkook coughed and I shot him a dirty look.

“It looks ravishing on you. The prettiest flower in my estate is my daughter, do you agree Jungkook?” My father prompted and I swallowed the smirk that threatened.

Poor Jungkook was going to learn that being my bodyguard meant singing my praises twenty four seven or at least anytime my father was in hearing distance.

“Uh..” Jungkook’s eyes flitted between the two of us, “ Yes sir. Your daughter is quite lovely.”

I beamed at him and he looked away quickly.

Coward.

Turning back to my dad I held my hand out.

“DAd, you wanted to see me about something?”

“Yes dearest. You know the Kim clan’s matriarch has been after me. Three of her great great great grandsons have come of age recently. And all three of them are set to take over some very lucrative businesses. They are good men and apparently they’re quite smitten with you. They say you know of them from school?”

I sighed.

“Do you know their names?” I prompted.

“Mingyu, Minjae and Yugyeom.” My father said briskly.

Ugh.

“ They’ve asked me out before, yes.”

“Uh..Excuse me.. Could I get a refill?” Jungkook said quietly next to me and i turned, watching him wave to one of the footmen.

“Jungkook, are you thirsty?” My father asked brightly.

An idea formed in my head, wicked and dangerous.

“Perhaps, he should get a taste of the Hwang Elixir?” I said innocently.

My father’s gaze snapped to mine.

A small frown made its way to his face.

“Are you sure? I’m not sure if Jungkook would be comfortable-”

I turned to him, purposely flipping my long hair off my shoulders exposing my throat . Jungkook’s eyes went to the curve of my neck at once and i felt a sick sort of triumph when his eyes flashed red.

“Oh, no no...” I crooned, leaning in closer. “ I’m sure you aren’t uncomfortable , are you Jungkook ssi? After all, I am just like a daughter to you , aren’t I?” I stared right at him, fluttering my lashes and I saw his jaw clench.

“Of course, Ms. Hwang.” He said briskly, glaring at me. I played with the small gold chain around my neck, letting my fingers flutter over my pulse , drawing his gaze there.

“Well, that is true ...” My father looked uncertain, but I gave him a gentle nod and a smile.

“Well, as a special guest, I suppose you can enjoy our hospitality , Jeon. Why don’t you take a drink from -”

I moved closer, pressing up against him and Jungkook sighed, lips closing over my neck, and I felt my eyes flutter shut at the wet warmth of his mouth .

It was intoxicating, the way he used one hand to grip my neck gently, the other on my waist to steady me and when his fangs pierced through, I could sense the warm liquid flood his mouth and Jungkook’s entire body relaxed, a strangled moan escaping him.

“---my daughter’s wrist.” My father finished and I felt Jungkook stiffen next to me.

This time I couldn’t stop the grin that bloomed on my face.

My eyes dropped to his lap and yup, his pants definitely looked a tad tighter.

“Did I do good, Mr Jeon? Or should I call you daddy? ” I whispered quietly , fluttering my lashes at him and his fangs retracted and he pulled away from me, shoving me back into my own chair quickly.

My father was slightly slack jawed.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Hwang. “ Jungkook muttered and I laughed.

“I do believe it is I whom you should be apologizing to. It is my neck you just mauled. ” I smiled brightly staring at Jungkook and if looks could kill, I would have a thousand wooden stakes through my heart right about now. ‘

Take that Mr. Jeon.

Daughter, my ass.

“My apologies , Sera.” He said stiffly.

My father laughed raucously.

“Ahh, you must be used to the neck, my dear boy. understandable understandable. it is how we used to do it in the old days, after all . These younglings with all their etiquette and feminism and what not....it’s hard to keep up..... But now you must tell me? Is my daughter not the sweetest you’ve ever had?”

I choked, coughing. Oh God, sometimes my 900 year old father had no idea how he sounded.

Jungkook looked like he had swallowed a lemon.

“She’s certainly ...” He stopped, probably realizing that any adjective at the end of that sentence would sound entirely wrong.

“Delicious?” I prompted, blinking innocently and Jungkook shot me another glare.

“Well, nevermind nevermind. .... So, tell me dearest, will you be willing to meet the Kim boys?”

I sighed.

“I like Yugyeom. I cannot stand Minjae. I don’t know enough about Mingyu to make any judgement. How about I meet Mingyu and if I don’t hit it off with him, I will allow Yugyeom to court me....” I said softly.

I glanced at Jungkook but he was studiously looking away.

“Very well my dear. Do you have any plans today?”

“I’m meeting a friend at the museum.”

My father’s eyes widened.

“Well isn’t that a wonderful coincidence. Mingyu's law firm is just a block away if I’m not mistaken. I’ll ask the boy to pick you up afterwards. Have dinner with him and you can tell me tonight of your choice.” My father smiled briskly.

“Yes, father.”

“Jungkook..” My father prompted and the vampire glanced up.

“Yes, sir?”

“Take good care of her. At the restaurant, make sure you stay at hearing distance. “

“Yes sir.” Jungkook bowed and I groaned.

In other words, let my father know if I behaved appropriately.

i pouted and my father waggled his finger at me.

“No, no no.. Missy. I’m going to make sure you keep your end of the bargain . You need to give these men a proper chance before you reject them. “

I nodded.

“And you must ask Either Somi or Seolhyun to dress you. No jeans or one of those ridiculous gowns that make you look like a pastry.”

There was no mistaking the snort that came from my right and i glared at Jungkook before turning to my dad.

“Yes, father.”

“Good, now run along the pair of you. “

I stood up, kissing my father fondly on his forehead.

“I love you.” I whispered.

“You are my whole entire joy, dearest. “ He kissed my hand gently, eyes warm and soft.

As we left the room, Jungkook let out a sigh.

“I am never having a meal with you two again.” He ground out and I laughed.

“Anything you say, daddy.” I grinned.

Jungkook groaned.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As luck would have it, my friend cancelled .

So at six the evening, I finished locking up the cottage as the last of the kids left, fumbling with the lock while a tired Joo Won napped in his father’s arms, head resting on Jungkook’s shoulders. I felt myself soften at the picture they made, Jungkook singing softly , fingers brushing his son’s hair back as he rocked him gently.

“I’ll be a while... I needed to get ready. Why don’t you put him to bed? Who’s watching him tonight?”

“Hwasa and Moonbyul offered. I’ll drop you off in your room and head to the north wing. What time are you meeting the jerkwad?” He said casually.

I blinked rapidly, confused.

“I’m sorry... the jerkwad?”

Jungkook shrugged.

“It’ just a fact. Most men are absolute jerks at twenty one.” He shrugged.

i felt myself bristling on behalf of the unknown Mingyu.

“That is absolutely unfair. My brothers were incredibly kind and good.”

“To you perhaps. Because they don’t have to impress you. But men act differently when they’re trying to get between a woman’s thighs. They’re jerks when they want to get laid...” He grinned.

“Is that why you act like a jerk to me? ” I smiled evilly and he rolled his eyes.

“Oh, darling we both know I don’t have to act in any different way to get you into my bed . I just have to do this.” He smirked, curling his finger in a come hither gesture.

I felt my pulse pound and I tried not to let his words get to my head. He was flirting , yes but it was a joke. He was joking with me because the very idea of being with me was a joke to him.

And I couldn’t forget that.

Rolling my eyes, I pulled on the lock a couple more times to make sure the door was well locked.

“Shall we leave?” He prompted watching me wrestle the backpack onto my shoulders. I grunted under the weight.

“Of course. Let’s go.”

We walked in silence for a few seconds.

“So, how’s he doing? With stuff?” Jungkook asked gently and I felt warmth bloom in my chest.

“He’s very advanced for his age Jungkook. You’ve done a wonderful job with him. He’s able to read and he has a beautiful l writing hand. He’s learned his multiplication tables all the way up to seven and he has the voice of an angel. Which I think he gets from you. ” I smiled, reaching out to brush the back of Joowon’s head.

Jungkook smiled softly, the late evening sun painting his perfect features in a soft golden glow.

“Your father was kind enough to support me the first few years when i had him. I didn’t trust anyone enough to leave him with them and well... i needed to put a roof over our head.” He sighed .

I touched his arm, giving it a small squeeze.

“I understand. I’m glad you’re here. He’ll grow up well in our clan. “

“And he has a lot of excellent men to look up to here...He needs a good role model, someone kind and amazing who can inspire him to be hardworking and fair. ” He smiled.

I bit my lips.

“I think he’s had that all along. ” I said quietly.

Jungkook’s breath caught for a second and the air between us changed. I licked my lips.

“Jungkook you’re a good father. You know that right?” I said after a few more seconds of silence.

He laughed.

“Am I really? I wonder.”

“He loves you.” I breathed , “ You’re all he talks about.... Today, one of the other kids tried to say that his father was brave because he helped someone who was stuck in an elevator. you know what Joowon did? He listed some twenty different incidents where you’ve helped people out....And he looked so proud.”

Jungkook’s ear looked red in the brightly lit garden.

“i was just doing my job. Most of those times, I was in danger.” He grunted.

“And yet, you did the right thing. “ I whispered. “ And your son was watching. And he’s learned the importance of doing the right thing even when you’re scared. That’s a life lesson that isn’t easy to learn.”

“Can’t disagree with that.” He chuckled. I grabbed his arm forcing him to stop.

I had to tell him this.

“ Jungkook, when immortality is on the plate, people don’t give much value to morals. They don’t always care about doing the right thing.... . Its how our kind functions. Consequences don’t mean much when you have a whole eternity to fix your mistakes.....So I always admire vampires who value morals. “ I smiled, “ To see a five year old with such a well formed moral compass... it tells me that you’re an amazing father. Possibly the best I’ve ever met. “ I reached out, to hold his hand, wanting to touch him in some way, to make him believe that I was completely honest.

“Sera!!!!!!” My sister’s voice made me jump and Jungkook stepped away as well.

“Dad told me you’re going on a date? I’ve picked out an outfit for you!! But you need to take a shower! You cannot show up smelling like diapers and spit-up.” She called.

I groaned.

“Time for the ugly duckling to transform into a swan, I see?” He said gently.

“Your son’s favorite fairytale.” I whispered.

“He makes me read it every night.”

“I would like to sit in on that someday.” I laughed.

His eyes met mine.

“You’re always welcome, Ms Hwang,” He smiled politely. “ Someday soon maybe your kids and my son would be friends.”

And just like that the wall grew between us.

His kids and my kids.

Not our kids because he wasn’t for me.

He would never be for me.

I felt the sudden inexplicable urge to cry.