#she will NEVER let him live that 'incredible' comment down and he can't take it back cuz it's TRUE

[nicawlette]

𝟏𝟎𝟎 𝑵𝑶𝑵𝑽𝑬𝑹𝑩𝑨𝑳 𝑷𝑹𝑶𝑴𝑷𝑻𝑺 .

@nobully asked: 39﹕ sender is caught following receiver .

Does he think she's a fucking idiot or something, or did nearly drowning and getting shot at permanently kill off his most valuable brain cells? She was content to let this play out, curious to see just what it was he intended to do, yet after about 15 minutes without clear initiative, Nicolette is fed up. Her phone goes into her pocket, no longer necessary to pretend she hadn't immediately noticed she was being followed by her new favorite stalker— seriously, after everything they'd been through, did he really think her instincts and observation skills so weak? Or was this simply his idea of fun?

Wouldn't be surprised!

Stopping dead in her tracks, thin heels give an audible clack as she whirls around to confront Wang Yi head on. Though certainly a tad annoyed by his sneaky tactics, most of it is an act just to be obnoxious. ❝ Goodness, have you fallen in love with me or something? Was I so INCREDIBLE that you decided to start stalking me? ❞

Scarred hands lift to lay against her chest where her heart is, expression defiant. ❝ I'll have you know I had a very ROUGH recovery after that shitshow— what the Hell are you doing lurking around me like a damn creep, Yi-yi ? ❞

[astonmartinii]

imgonnagetyouback [guilty as sin part four] | charles leclerc social media au

pairing: charles leclerc x fem sainz!reader

PR jail did a lot of damage, but unlike SOMEONE else, charles is ready for the apology tour

MASTERLIST | GUILTY AS SIN MASTERLIST | TIP JAR

note: the timeline is absolutely all over the place in this and for needs must pretend that the spanish and austrian races are swapped on the calendar!

yourusername

liked by maxverstappen1, oscarpiastri and 1,045,389 others

yourusername: i think your house is haunted, why are they always mad?

view all comments

user239: i have had it with little miss poet over here TELL ME IF MY PARENTS ARE DIVORCED OR NOT

user240: i hate that as this generation, them following each other on instagram is a key feature to whether they're still together or not

user241: my grandparents didn't have to go through this 😭

maxverstappen1: spill it sis

user242: WHAT DO YOU KNOW MAX

maxverstappen1: ummm nothing, and if i did i only take cash bribes. this is baby max relating hard to the caption

user242: oh :(

yourusername: oh maxy .... at least we now have good ways to express our emotions!

user243: ma'am he tore lando's wheel off because he can't handle wheel to wheel racing

liked by landonorris

yourusername: it's called hard racing, maybe mclaren should watch some of senna's old races instead of doing their 100th tribute livery xx

landonorris: you know he said you would do this exact thing, you can't handle anyone linked to your brother doing well

yourusername: oh i was perfectly prepared for you to win every race after miami since it was clear that the mclaren is the fastest car on the grid EVEN THOUGH you've publicly sided with them when anyone with a moral backbone (and a hint of PR awareness) would've run for the hills

landonorris: i'd really worry about the fact that the one piece of relevance you had left is no where to be seen, you're not worth defending for him

yourusername: it's insane the way you all have the same pompous attitude about this (i know that's a big word, but maybe you guys could get a couple of quid together to buy a dictionary)

maxverstappen1: also don't try and pretend 1. that you're completely in the right about everything that happened in austria 2. that you weren't scrounging around me (when we were friends i guess) trying to get details on y/n and charles

user244: okay this is wild

user245: i really thought lando would see the light on this

user246: or he realised that he can't race wheel to wheel unless he has the power of carlando friendship so he's burning bridges

oscarpiastri: i miss leo

yourusername: we literally are down the street bozo

oscarpiastri: i am ON MY WAY

user247: she's in monaco ???

user248: has to be, oscar only has a rental place he stays in london for mclaren and y/n has only ever lived in madrid or monaco

user249: there is still hope everyone

charles_leclerc

liked by yourusername, maxverstappen1 and 2,309,677 others

tagged: yourusername

charles_leclerc: was i out of line? did i say something way too honest?

there are a couple things i need to get off of my chest.

first, a massive apology to my girlfriend. y/n is the love of my life and will be my wife sooner or later and i hate that as a 26-year-old grown man i haven't had the backbone to stand up to ferrari when it comes to her. she's incredibly strong and i hate that she's had to go through this without my public support. i can't take it back now, but if i could i never would've let them take my phone and take control of my social media. they have now been dealt with and no one will stop me declaring my love and support for her.

second, if i hadn't already ran out of patience before, the legal trouble that family have put their own blood through threw me over the edge. they will never, ever deserve that girl and if i have anything to do with it they will never talk to her ever again. i may have been silent online but money talks and we will have vindication soon.

third, a big thank you to max, oscar and ollie for their continued support of y/n. it means so much that the public still saw how loved she is when i couldn't.

four, i am awake and i am angry, these people will learn who they are fucking with. see you soon lecfosi, it'll all be worth it in the end.

view all comments

user254: WAR IS OVER

user255: my heart dropped when i got the post notification but this is the best news possible

user256: am i going to excuse a 26-year-old man for being a pussy? no. but i am going to celebrate him seeing the light and y/n having him back in her corner

yourusername: he was never out of my corner. true there was no public support, but he was there. i would rather have his support behind closed doors where it matters than plastered all over social media

maxverstappen1: you wouldn't believe the lengths these two were going, i became a messenger pigeon when they physically took his phone and the letters were so grossly cute

yourusername: that's literally mail tampering

maxverstappen1: and i'm a human not a pigeon, we can't all get what we want

charles_leclerc: i did i got y/n 😁😁😁

maxverstappen1: ugh welcome back gross instagram comments

user257: so that's what max meant when someone referenced letters that's so cuteeeee

user258: the shout out to max and the extended leclerc family i know that's right

oscarpiastri: anything for my grid mum

olliebearman: actually charles can you get your phone taken away again cause the heist was VERY fun

yourusername: heist???????

charles_leclerc: don't answer that ollie

yourusername: answer it ollie, did you put yourself in harms way ???

charles_leclerc: it was hardly high-stakes

olliebearman: we only stole a phone from silvia's office

yourusername: ollie that's kind of slay but i'm going to need you to delete all of these incriminating comments i don't want you to get in trouble for charles

user259: i know this is just eating up carlos inside seeing how loved she is in his sport

user260: it really does seem that lando is the only one in his corner

sebastianvettel: i am proud of you charles, i know how much ferrari means to you, but never let them take you from those who matter

charles_leclerc: thank you seb, i couldn't have done it without you

yourusername: we love you seb

sebastianvettel: my impromptu not at all prompted trip to maranello definitely wasn't to give you a well-earned slap up the side of the head

user261: no carlos bitching it up in the comments... i've been dreaming of this

maxverstappen1

liked by danielricciardo, yourusername and 1,734,037 others

tagged: charles_leclerc & yourusername

maxverstappen1: back to being a third-wheel, balance is restored - the united front of hating is BACK BABY

view all comments

user263: i prayed for times like this

user264: i know they didn't break up but i'm so glad y/n and charles are back together they're too pretty not to be in our faces 24/7

yourusername: just paying you back for you and kelly let me crash on the sofa

maxverstappen1: that really wasn't the burden you thought it was, jimmy and sassy loved their interactive cat bed

yourusername: i miss them (don't tell leo)

charles_leclerc: HOW DARE YOU MUM :((((((((

yourusername: okay baby we're not going to do that ...

charles_leclerc: but :( his feelings are hurt

yourusername: i know lewis is cool and will be your new teammate, but i draw the line at pretending to be leo in the instagram comment section

roscoelovescoco: watch urs backs

yourusername: AHAHAHHAHAHA

maxverstappen1: this man is about to turn 40

lewishamilton: you people ever heard of having some whimsy in your life

yourusername: i got sued by my own family 👍

lewishamilton: um yeah, sorry that happened to you

user265: y/n be ticking up the amount of drivers she's gone toe to toe with in instagram comments

charles_leclerc: you can finally eat my ice cream without trying to hide it

maxverstappen1: i think it's against my partnership contracts to publicly say that i like that ice cream

yourusername: don't worry baby we both ate three tubs and cried watching chick flicks while you were locked away in maranello

charles_leclerc: there's a reason a special edition strawberry flavour made its way to you

yourusername: i love you :(

carlossainz55: you might be "united" but you haven't won yet

charles_leclerc: do you ever shut the fuck up?

carlossainz55: oh someone finally found their voice

charles_leclerc: yeah i did which means you don't get to control the narrative anymore and i can call you a bitch

maxverstappen1: also if there was anyway we would lose, at least we are united, i can count how many friends you have left in this sport on one hand and two of them are your dad and your cousin

charles_leclerc: and watch out, clearly you guys aren't afraid to betray family, who knows it could be you next?

user266: i think charles is still being restrained but can we please at least get one day when he can fully go off his rocker

user267: i think we deserve it after all of it

yourusername

liked by maxverstappen1, charles_leclerc and 1,764,094 others

tagged: charles_leclerc

yourusername: she's not only poet barbie but also lawyer barbie - THAT POETRY IS MINE BITCH, SUCK MY DICK AND RUN ME MY MONEY

view all comments

user268: i don't think i've ever been more happy for a stranger before in my life

user269: she deserves this so much i'm actually like over the moon

charles_leclerc: i'm so happy for you baby, i knew it would all be worth it in the end

yourusername: they can't stop my romantic ramblings now

charles_leclerc: i don't know if i want them to hear them all

yourusername: oh no some are for our ears only ;)

oscarpiastri: unfortunately it's NOT all just for your ears

olliebearman: for a millionaire i thought you'd at least buy a house with thick walls

maxverstappen1: you'll get used to it after a while

yourusername: THERE WAS CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION ARE YOU GUYS NOT HAPPY FOR ME ???

oscarpiastri: clearly not THAT happy

charles_leclerc: good. that would be entirely inappropriate

user270: finally some normal fucking couple stuff for y/n and charles

user271: their dynamic is so cute going from poetry to FUCKING

user272: i would be the exact same if i looked like either of them

fernandoalo_oficial: spoken like a real poet, i'm happy for you niña

yourusername: thank you pops !! couldn't have done it without you <3

fernandoalo_oficial: dealing with charles having close to a nervous breakdown every weekend was a lot, but i'm glad you have each other

charles_leclerc: thank you nando :)))) (i didn't have a nervous breakdown)

fernandoalo_oficial: you stress ate seven punnets of grapes

charles_leclerc: FERRARI I SWEAR I DIDN'T

charles_leclerc: wait i'm still annoyed at you ignore that

user273: i think charles is the first case of stockholm syndrome to a sports team

yourusername: @carlossainz55 come on i wanna tussle stop being a pussy

carlossainz55: enjoy your victory lap while you can, it won't last for long

yourusername: suck my actual dick, you put me through this i won't let you run away from it

yourusername: massive tip because i'm feeling generous, maybe actually come to court because there's a lot that you could know ...

carlossainz55: why would i waste my time on you?

yourusername: all will reveal itself

user274: oh it's finally on the other foot .... i'm enjoying this

user275: i think y/n and charles are too

f1tea

liked by user276, user277 and 21,056 others

tagged: carlossainz55

f1tea: sources close to us say that there is serious worry in the sainz camp after the courts decided they were unlawful in their actions against y/n sainz. the financial standings of the sainz family were already somewhat dyer before they took the youngest sainz' income but it's said to be even worse now they've had to pay damages.

in terms of f1, several of the teams that were interested in sainz were put off by the way he and his family were treating his sister but have fully backed out now the financial struggles of the sainzs has become clear.

this comes after a number of sponsors have ended their partnerships with the spaniard. where do you think he'll end up?

view all comments

user278: at the job centre hopefully

user279: i think this is what the kids call poetic justice

user280: the way charles just picked up a new sponsor... we love to see it!

user281: all the sponsors flocking to charles is so fucking real

user282: life comes at you so fucking fast

user283: in the words of his hero: KARMA!

user284: especially since fernando congratulated y/n on her win in court 😭

user285: bro can't even afford the tractor seat at williams i am HOWLING

user286: or at sauber, boy oh boy this is some great great content for a hater like me

user287: or HAAS and they fucking took nikita mazepin

user288: the next race can't come fast enough i wanna see how this guy spins it in the media

user289: for once in his life i can't see him spinning this is any way that makes him look good

user290: god i hope y/n is in the paddock as well

user291: oh gosh i need her diana revenge dress moment

user292: i don't care if that's your brother i need you to STUNT ON HIM

user293: other than y/n and charles, i know oscar is cheering at this news

user294: bro saw his grid parents get back together and his biggest opp be declared broke and jobless

user295: i really don't understand how y/n slutting round the paddock has been praised so much when her hopping from driver to driver has cost her brother his dream

user296: cope.

user297: also y/n has only ever been with charles DESPITE carlos and her father trying to pimp her out for favours

usr298: now we know this ^^ i don't understand why carlos was so annoyed that she was finally doing what they always wanted

user299: it was because it didn't serve him.

user300: he was probably happy y/n was with charles until he realised it was for you know an ACTUAL relationship rather than psychological teammate warfare

carlossainz55

liked by landonorris, marcmarquez93 and 104,889 others

tagged: charles_leclerc

carlossainz55: it was never 'true love' if all you ever wanted was to bag a trophy husband and never work again

view all commments

user302: posting a picture of charles' crash and tagging him is nasty business

user303: would've been iconic if i wasn't him

user304: also that caption just really isn't the read he thought it was

user305: i grew up watching posh spice and cheryl cole in the stands at england games like obvs people want to be with athletes

user306: also this guy pretending he doesn't have a revolving door of models who are just there to be wags

yourusername: yes? and.

yourusername: at least wag isn't my only job. you better hope that rebecca stays booked honey

carlossainz55: don't bring rebecca into this she has nothing to do with any of this

yourusername: awwww did you already cheat? that does track...

yourusername: also you've been slandering my boyfriend all over the internet and ON THIS POST so shut the fuck up i'll bring up who i want to bring up

carlossainz55: get the fighting words out, you might need them when charles questions why you just happened to fall into his lap

yourusername: you've stolen every last penny from me, sued me and tried to turn everyone i care about against me - and guess what? YOU'RE STILL STUPID

carlossainz55: i'm not stupid you're a gold digging slut and you WILL BE FOUND OUT

yourusername: i actually think i could play pinball with the one remaining brain cell in your head

user307: i know this is serious drama but YES SASSY Y/N IS UNLEASHED FROM HER LAWYER'S GRASPS

user308: someone TAP CHARLES IN

user309: please you're out of the ferrari jail NOW IS THE TIME

charles_leclerc: you think i'm going to be offended that the most beautiful girl in the world has always wanted to be with me?

yourusername: what if i told you i'm a mastermind?

charles_leclerc: i would say i'm impressed and FLATTERED

yourusername: and now you're mine :P

charles_leclerc: and i'm glad

charles_leclerc: and i am of the serious belief that even if you didn't seek me out, we would've found each other regardless

yourusername: you made me believe in soulmates

maxverstappen1: @carlossainz55 this post really didn't do what you thought it would lOL

oscarpiastri: bro is falling at every hurdle

carlossainz55: yeah, yeah fuck you two. i'll see you on the track

maxverstappen1: if you can get close enough :P

yourusername

liked by maxverstappen1, charles_leclerc and 1,783,088 others

tagged: charles_leclerc & maxverstappen1

yourusername: siri play hoes mad

view all comments

user310: this girl is a bestselling poet and this is how she's captioning her instagram posts

user311: babe we're like months into a family war that has had whole ass court cases we don't need eloquent captions

oscarpiastri: where's that one tiktok audio

yourusername: that audio has gone platinum in our house, i think i've saved every edit with it and charles

charles_leclerc: they do slap every time

maxverstappen1: HOES MAD HOES MAD HOES MAD

yourusername: someone is enjoying this

maxverstappen1: i've been praying on these people's downfall since i was 17 i've got a fancy bottle of wine i've been waiting to open

yourusername: we've really been through the wars with these people

charles_leclerc: and ME

maxverstappen1: well here's to them being BROKE AS FUCK LOL

yourusername: cheers!

charles_leclerc: 🥂

user312: this has been some kind of crazy turn around

user313: considering we all thought they had broken up not long ago we have come SO far

charles_leclerc: i'd have the whole world mad at me if it kept you by my side

yourusername: i love you so much

user314: tbf i'd say a good 80% of people were mad at you when you were being ferrari's bitch

charles_leclerc: HOW MANY TIMES DO I HAVE TO SAY I'M SORRY

sebastianvettel: if it's any consolation, he was very torn up about it

yourusername: i know what happened charles, don't worry. i know you're dedicated to your craft and have people you want to win for

charles_leclerc: but i'm also dedicated to you

yourusername: we're in it together, forever now

yourusername: although this does mean ferrari have to deal with me now

user314: ugh they're so precious

carlossainz55: i'll have the last laugh don't you worry. you may have won the battle but you have not won the war.

user315: does this guy ever Shut the FUCK UP

user316: i'm bored. can't you just let them be happy

carlossainz55: no.

fin.

note: I'M SORRY THIS TOOK SO LONG but here she is, can't tell whether i love it or hate it - probably because i've been looking at it so long xx i guess p5 will be out hopefully some time soon and i hope my tagging works

[aftgtandn]

We're at a real risk of sounding like a broken record at this point but you guys are AMAZING!

We still can't believe how much support you all have shown the fest. From reblogs and retweets, to comments and joining in all the fun games, it's truly been a blast.

We really, really can't thank you enough! Our hearts are so full to see T&N fest be so fun for the second year in a row — and it's all your doing! Every fic, every piece of art, every work adopted, every meme, every comment left, every full bingo card, every rec. IT WAS ALL YOU.

To our creators in particular: we owe you THE WORLD. Thank you for being brilliant. Please make sure to tag us in all your claim posts so we can reblog them!

WITHOUT FURTHER ADO... here's the full list of works AND THEIR INCREDIBLY TALENTED CREATORS:

Are you Real? by Whyreme Rated Mature | 6052 words Andrew comes back from Easthaven but Neil isn't at Palmetto, where he promised he would be. If you ever wondered what it would be like if Andrew was present for the immediate aftermath of Christmas at the Nest, this one is for you.

[art] don't flinch. by ghostheroes Rated Gen | Art There's not that much space from the cheek to the eye. In the art piece we have for you today, Lola aims the lighter barely an inch higher.

echoes by doodleishere Rated Teen | 100 words What if Kevin didn't leave the next alone? In this flash fic, Jean gets out too when Riko's anger finally snaps.

Bite the hand by Ateiluj Rated Mature | 4515 words We all have asked the question: what was going through Andrew's mind during The Choking Incident? A question we might have not asked, however, is: what would happen if no one stopped him? Well, this fic answers both of those!

duck duck goose by glittersinnin Rated Gen | 2329 words When Andrew goes through Neil's duffel, Neil holds his tongue. It will take some patience for him to get adequate revenge. Patience... and some experience handling the local water foul.

Let Down by maydaykevin Rated Gen | 4132 words How would it affect Kevin and Andrew's deal if Kevin hit Andrew back when Andrew chokes him? How is their relationship impacted by this unexpected bout of violence between them? Find out in this fic!

If You're Throwing Me to the Lions by orionauriga Rated Teen | 3763 words It's not easy when your boyfriend comes with a whole lot of baggage, especially twin-brother-who-hates-you shaped baggage. It's not easy but it's worth it, for Aaron, and Katelyn knows how to stand her ground.

If I was easy to kill you would have done it already by lazarusthefirst Rated Mature | 9196 words They were always meant to be partners, now it's Jean's job to make sure Neil behaves. Neil isn't great at being a partner, but he knows partners don't leave each other behind. In this fic, Neil doesn't come back to Palmetto alone.

Butterfly Effect! Read More on Page 12 by animediac Rated Gen | 5194 words How much can the death of one character affect the narrative? Through newspaper and blog articles, emails and social media posts, that's exactly what this fic explores. How many lives can the butterfly effect of one unfortunate 'accident' change?

Nathaniel by nyaar0n Rated Gen | Art Neil Josten is a Fox, but what if he never got the chance to be? Nathaniel Wesninski is a Raven through and through, and in this art piece, he snatches the spotlight both on the court and with his partner.

Now it's Time to Live (and Turn to Dust) by Witheredcarnelians Rated Mature | 4573 words Renee makes it just in time to save Jean ... or does she? This fic explores the crushing guilt of leaving behind a loved one, and being unable to save them in the end.

caught up in you by rooftopkisses Rated Mature | 5463 words "What are you hoping for, coordinates?" Neil doesn't lock the door, and Nicky walks in on Neil and Andrew kissing. Nicky can be trusted — mostly because he fears Andrew's knife — but Andrew's tendency toward quiet implosion is a different story.

but i've walked this far by rwnjun Rated Teen | 14556 words When the countdown ends, Neil gets taken. His dad is dead, but manages to make substantial damage before he gets shot. Now Nathaniel gets to be Neil Josten, but who is Neil Josten if he can't play Exy?

i've been feeling smaller by neiljokesten (vykio) Rated Teen | 2433 words Over worrying and wound-tending, Aaron and Neil get caught on a never-ending loop of the pot calling the kettle black over sacrificing themselves to protect a loved one

a familiar face by Shinobimoon Rated Gen | 4184 words How would things have gone if Kevin had recognized Neil right away? Would Neil have run, or still signed with the Foxes? Read more in this fic!

Better Luck Next Time by AllAngstNoComfort Rated Mature | 7812 words What if Riko had gone for Aaron instead of Seth, that night? In this fic, we learn exactly that and how that affects the Foxes.

the most unkindest cut of all by deadangelo Rated Mature | 2550 words Riko Moriyama has been many things to Kevin Day: a friend, a brother, a partner, a monster. The die has been cast. Riko is going to die. This time around, Ichirou has a spectator seat saved for Kevin.

we want the young blood by undermoonwalker Rated Teen | Art What if Elodie was sold to the Ravens? What if Jean had a predetermined partner through all that darkness? This art looks at the possibilities of the Moreau Ravens!

you'll be alright (no one can hurt you now) by wesawbears Rated Teen | 1757 words Jeremy Knox can't figure out their newest recruit. But having some secrets of his own means that he can tell when something isn't right, and if there's one thing about the Trojans is that they protect their own.

as soft as feathers by delossanctuary Rated Mature | 4714 words What's a T&N fest without a devastating Abby fic? This year, ponder on this: what if Neil's finger slipped when he needed an airport pickup?

TKO by justadreamfox Rated Mature | 4733 words Remember that busboy Neil paid to knock him out? In today's T&N fic, Neil doesn't get left on the floor of the club afterwards. Not everyone is out to get him.

i know that i did you wrong (but will you trust me when i say that i'll make it up to you somehow) by evenfallwriter Rated Mature | 7076 words Neil gets something different for his 19th birthday: his father's death.

depraved heart by decaflondonfog Rated Mature | 7000 words There is a horrible scene at the Hemmick house. There is a dead man on the ground. There is Andrew, laughing. And then there is Kevin, standing with a bloody knife in hand and something far more potent than fear clawing at his rib cage.

kintsugi by gus_47 Rated Explicit | 4728 words Riko's violence knows no bounds; what if he didn't stop at Kevin's hand? This fic follows Jean as he weathers and grieves the aftermath of the Raven's ugliest secret.

The Mallard's Lullaby by Random2002 Rated Mature | 6313 words The Moreau family are good at business; why sell one child to an Exy empire when you can sell two? Good thing Elodie's got a stuffed duck, a pieced together first aid kit, and her brother. What more do you need?

Light in a prism by sassy_pen_sassy Rated Teen | 1030 words There's a life outside of the walls of the EAU Raven's nest; Jean learns what that's like with Renee by his side in this sweet fic.

not dead (yet) by ashestoashes7 Rated Mature | 13593 words When Andrew is released from Easthaven, only three of his charges are there to pick him up. He always knew Neil was a pipedream. If Andrew cared more, Neil could become a nightmare.

Digits by twolipsliterature Rated Teen | 2700 words A cheerleader and a Exy player on the run from his hitman father walk into a bar. This time, Neil gives Marissa his number instead of being an asshole for once.

shots fired by liaisun Rated Mature | Art Neil threw out the guns when his mother died, but today we take a look at how things might have gone if he hadn't.

Timing by HereBeChickens Rated Teen | 1116 words Kevin scores. Neil falls to his knees. ""You've always known what it's like to be second."" Riko swings. Andrew still gets there in time. But this is where we diverge.

presumably dead arm by kevjean Rated Mature | 15518 words What if someone else had found Kevin first after Riko broke his hand? What if that someone was special in a way that was never allowed before? In this fic, Kevin finds a slightly different way out of the Nest, and discovers something on the way.

and this is just my luck by starwarned Rated Teen | 2107 words Kevin Day is a star. He won't let a gay crisis get in his way. At least, that's the plan -- it becomes difficult for Kevin to maintain that dissonance after he overhears Andrew offering to blow Neil.

n'oublie pas de vivre by FireHeartAW Rated Teen | 5028 words What is left of Jean Moreau without Exy? Can he find a new place for himself without the Ravens even if his injuries prevent him from ever playing again? And what does he need to make that happen?

i am not scared of death, i've got dreams again by liliacskiess Rated Explicit | 5566 words Eden's back alleyway is not the place to be on a Friday night; Nicky learns that the hard way in today's fic which asks 'What if Andrew didn't arrive in time to fight Nicky's attackers'?

Back to the Old House by TearsOfATrickster Rated Teen | 6664 words Neil's not the only one willing to protect Andrew when he's at Easthaven. What if Kevin went back to EAU for Christmas?

Only Human by aquared46 Rated Mature | 2677 words “Shouldn’t I feel different? Powerful?” Neil survives his father, but the encounter leaves him with nightmares that seem like they should be good dreams. Andrew is there to listen as Neil tries to process.

Baltimore Basement by ConventionalExy Rated Mature | Art The apple doesn't fall far from the tree. In this art, Neil is taken to Baltimore by his father's people, but he knows his way around a cleaver.

The Graveyard Shift by KweenDay Rated Mature | 7100 words What if Andrew noticed there was something wrong in the locker room? What if Andrew stayed at Neil’s side? What if Andrew was brought to Baltimore too? In this fic we find out exactly what goes down behind the walls of the Wesninski manor.

the ongoing effects of growing a backbone by favbitchcharlie Rated Teen | 10641 words What if instead of giving Neil the plane ticket to EAU, Kevin tore it up? What if Neil let a bit of Nathaniel slip through? In this fic, Kevin and Neil go to break Andrew out of Easthaven in their own non-Coach-approved way.

The Prince and The Pauper by CherriPips Rated Mature | 8695 words After Riko broke his hand, Kevin went running to Wymack, but what if he saw Andrew first? In this fic, we find exactly how that interaction goes down.

Tear away at the Mask by Moondal Rated Teen | 2779 words What if more than one Fox had crossed paths with Neil in his past life? And what if this one particular Fox immediately recognized him, too? This is a fic about Natalie Shields, Nathaniel Wesninski, and about reinventing yourself.

scavenger's hunt by kiwiaok Rated Mature | 10341 words In a world where Lola survives her gunshot wounds in Baltimore, Neil has to face her once more during her trial, and things come to light that he would rather had stayed hidden.

Neil Josten Is Not Fine by the_greater_grief Rated Teen | 3362 words "In Neil’s dreams, Aaron never shows up to save the day." Neil's nightmares have become a problem even he can't ignore. When his sleeplessness begins to mess with his performance on the court, he gives in. Maybe Dobson isn't so bad, after all.

damage control by seasy33 Rated Mature | 11656 words When Andrew witnesses Nicky kissing Neil, his confidence in his plan to break Neil wavers. What can he stomach in his mission to keep his family safe? And what will it actually take to learn Neil's secrets?

patient violence by Mercey Rated Mature | 6981 words An orderly catches Dr. Proust and Andrew ends up escaping Easthaven early. Where to next? Well, Neil’s in the Nest and Andrew’s looking into a jailbreak. In this fic we find out what happens when Andrew goes to get Neil out of the Nest.

Deadliest Piece by LynxDoesArt Rated Explicit | Art When Neil realizes that something is wrong at the Hemmick's house, he rushes upstairs to find Andrew with the rest of the monsters close behind. What if Kevin got a hand on Neil's racquet before Aaron?

it lives in the throat by timeloops (kunimi) Rated Teen | 14440 words Switching places with your twin is fun, until… technically, Aaron Minyard dies in a car crash with his mother. But the dead body isn’t Aaron and now he must deal with the fallout of it all.

With all the love and appreciation in the world,

Your T&N'24 mods and helpers 💚

[mariclerc]

More parts of An unexpected role! Lily meeting the grid and all drivers are wrapped around her finger, spoiling her and everything, plus lewis Hamilton being protective about y/ n and lily treating them as his honorary daughter and granddaughter, and lily having a little baby crush/ being fond of Oscar Piastri or Ollie bearman and not wanting to leave his side.Then the other leclerc brothers (Arthur and Lorenzo) and drivers are jealous because lily doesn't give them attention.

Thank you very much for this request!! It seemed very adorable and cute to me since I had imagined what Lily would be like attending to her first race... so here you go!!

An unexpected role (pt.5) | cl16

Summary: you revealed your little secret to your date, you didn't expect he would take it so well. Warning: none, just fluff + the drivers falling for Lily and spoiling her A LOT.

a/n: part five of “an unexpected role” I hope you like it!

follow the series!! Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9

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ynusername

liked by joris_trouche, itslolasss, pierregasly and others.

tagged charles_leclerc

ynusername guess where we are going this weekend 🫣🎀

see 1.738.653 comments

itslolasss nO EAY

ynusername hehe yup bestie 😋

itslolasss pls keep me updated this weekend babe, I need all the details

ynusername yup yup captain 🫡

user7 IT'S HAPPENING EVERYONE, THE LEC FAM ON THE PADDOCK THIS WEEKEND 😭😭😭😭

user4 OMG OMG OMG OMG EVERYBODY CALM DOWN, THIS IS HAPPENING

liked by creator

logansargeant finally we will meet the popular Lilyyy

arthur_leclerc finallyyy

georgerussell63 the official mascot <3

lilymhe I'm happy to meet you both 💗💗💗

ynusername omg omg im waiting 🩷🩷

carlossainz55 lord perceval biggest fans

ynusername that's for sure

charles_leclerc I'm excited to have you both this weekend, my loves 🤍🤍🤍

ynusername and we are happy to accompany you my love 🤍🤍🤍

Charles iMessage

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You never thought you were going to end up in an F1 paddock with your boyfriend and your little Lily... But there you were both, accompanying Charles at the Belgian Grand Prix, -the last stop before the much anticipated summer break, It was the first time that you and Lily were going to witness the F1 action live, of course, you watch it on television in the comfort of your bed and support Charles at all times, but there is nothing compared to seeing it up close.

You and Lily walk through the paddock while Charles has his hand on your lower back, the three of you have a very noticeable smile on their faces and no wonder, he is over the moon that you and Lily are accompanying him this weekend, it's like having extra motivation to do well in front of the two of you.

“Are you excited Lilytunes?” Charles softly asks Lily, who is wearing a Ferrari shirt that says on the back: "Daddy's #1 fan", she nods at his words. She smiles with her eyes wide open, observing everything around her and he gives her a kiss on the cheek, you also do the same, it is much more impressive to see it in person than on television, the amount of people working to keep this show going is incredible. “And what about you love? Are you excited too?” He turns his head towards you to give you a small peck on the lips, you nod smiling.

“Pretty excited honey... I still can't believe that Lily and I are here!” You say with a dreamy face and he smiles showing his dimples. You don't care that there are 20 cameras around you trying to get a good angle of the wholesome family moment, you only care about him and Lily. “This is so amazing here!” You say excitedly as he lets out a small giggle.

The three of you walk towards the general hospitality, basically the joint place where the drivers and their families can relax and have a good time, to keep the harmonious atmosphere outside the track. You and Charles sit next to Lily on one of the comfortable sofas of the lounge area, just at that moment, most of the drivers get into a hurry... Maybe they are excited to meet the ferrari's golden boy little daughter.

You grab Lily in your arms and you bounce her softly. “Look Lily! I think you have a fan club now, isn't that cool?” You say as you stroke her hair and she smiles. “And of course, we're going to see dada race here!” You say, nuzzling your nose against hers.

Lily claps her hands excitedly. “Dada fast win! Vroom!” she giggled.

Many of the drivers come to see this weekend's star, and it is no wonder since Lily radiates charisma and tenderness in her wake. One of the first to speak was Hamilton.

“Hey there Charles, how's everything going?” He says greeting Charles with a pat on the back and then turns his attention to the two of you, giving you a kind smile. “And who's this little cutie? Is it perhaps the popular Lily and y/n?”

You blink for a moment. “Popular? How is that possibl...” You were going to continue talking but Lewis subtly interrupted you.

He nodded. “That's right! Charles won't stop talking about you two, he gets very excited when he talks about you, I swear his eyes had a special shine.” He finishes and you turn your gaze to see Charles, who is scratching the back of his neck embarrassingly and has red cheeks that match his Ferrari shirt.

Lily watches Lewis curiously. “Hi!” she says shyly as she hides in your chest.

Lewis smiles at Lily. “Hello Lily, it's so nice to meet you! Your daddy tells me you're his biggest fan!”

She smiles at the mention of Charles. “Dada fast!”

Lewis giggle and pulls out a little Mercedes cap for Lily. ”That's right! And you know what fast cars and daddy's need? Fast fans! Here you go.”

Lily's eyes light up, and she takes the cap with a giggle.

“Thank you Lewis, that's so sweet!” you smile shyly at the British.

“Don't worry y/n! I'll always look after my honorary daughter and granddaughter here.” he said with a smile.

Charles rolls his eyes playfully with a smile. “Thanks Lewis, you're spoiling Lily already.” he smiles softly.

The rest of the Thursday afternoon is a whirlwind of introductions, after the respective press duties, other drivers stop by, charmed by Lily's infectious smile, she gets a mini Red Bull helmet from Max Verstappen, a Ferrari cap signed by Carlos Sainz, a Williams blue hoodie from Logan Sargeant and a tiny McLaren t-shirt from Lando Norris. Lily becomes the star of the General Hospitality area, the drivers take turns stopping by to say hello, giving her gifts like miniature helmets and team t-shirts. Arthur and Lorenzo try to get in on the action, but Lily mostly ignores them, captivated by the older Ollie Bearman.

You giggle. “I think your plan to make it only have Ferrari merch is going very wrong amour.” You say while looking at Charles, who is watching Lily coexist with the other drivers.

He smiles. “Well, I can't blame them... Our little girl is a sweetheart, don't you think?”

You nod happily. “Of course she is, darling.”

***

Friday arrives and that's when the action really begins, all the drivers and teams prepare for the first practice sessions of the weekend, Lily is very happy and so are you, you two find yourself in the Ferrari garage using the headphones to listen to Charles's radio.

“My dear, look, it's dada! He's driving really fast, don't you think?” You whisper to Lily and she smiles and giggles as she sees Charles on the screens.

“Dada fast mama!” She says and you nod smiling. At one point she sees that on the other side of the garage is Ollie Bearman, Ferrari's reserve driver, she almost screams when she sees him and starts to smile a lot. “Ollie! Ollie!” She says between babbling, trying to get the attention of the young British man and he smiles when he hears her and approaches you both.

“But it's the little Leclerc! How are you cutie?” He says, greeting Lily sweetly, she gives him a thumbs up and he laughs. “Hi y/n, it's nice to finally meet you.” He said, extending his hand and you accepted it smiling.

You smile shyly. “The pleasure is mine” Lily starts to move in your arms and makes grabby hands towards Ollie, you let out a chuckle. “Looks like you have a little fan here, Mr. Bear.” You say and he smiles, Lily throws herself into his arms and starts pointing around.

“Are you sure it doesn't bother you?” He asks timidly and you deny.

“Slides! Slides!” Lily says pointing towards the exit. “Ollie, slides!” she says taking the collar of Ollie's shirt in her small hands.

“It's okay Lily, we'll go to the slide.” Ollie says with a shy smile as he takes off his and Lily's headphones. “I will bring her to you safe and sound.” He says and you smile and give Lily a kiss on the forehead.

You watch as Lily leaves in the British man's arms, what you didn't notice was the presence of Arthur and Lorenzo, probably looking at you in a state of shock.

“How does Lily prefer to be with bearman than with me?” he scoffs.

You smile innocently. “Let's say Lily has a little crush on Ollie.”

Lorenzo moves his head, denying several times. “Nah, nah, nah, she is too young to fall in love.”

You were so focused talking to the Leclerc brothers when you three didn't notice that practice had already ended and that now you had the presence of Charles, who made himself known by giving you a kiss on your cheek.

“What's happening gorgeous?” he asks you softly.

Arthur pulls his hair, frustrated. “Lily went with Ollie to the slides!” He says totally stressed while you and Charles just giggle. “She doesn't want to be with us anymore.”

“Oh god, Are you two seriously stressed about that?” He asked and Arthur and Lorenzo nodded, he laughs.

“I think Lily has a little crush on Ollie.” You whisper to Charles.

He grins. “I wouldn't be surprised, he's good with kids.”

After that meeting you accompany Charles to Ferrari's Hospitality, and after he changes his clothes, they go out in search of Lily. You manage to find her in a playground area for the little ones, she is smiling as she slides down the slide and Ollie watches her carefully.

Lily manages to spot you two and runs off the slide and then ends up in Charles's arms. “Dada!” she says happily.

Charles opens his arms to welcome Lily. “Hello there petit papillon! Did you see dada on the track?” He says while tickling her tummy. (little butterfly)

She nods and giggles. “Dada supa fast!” she says content.

“Oh but of course I was honey, pretty fast, don't you think?” he asks her and she nods.

“So fast!” she giggles again.

At this point almost everyone in the paddock adores and loves Lily, so much so that they spoil her with gifts and sweets, and she clearly loves that. You feel happy because you feel that it is where you two should always have been from the beginning, and the fact that Charles has talked non-stop about you two from the very beginning makes it so special, since you can see the love you radiate as a family.

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ynusername posted a story

itslolasss have fun today pretty girls, good luck to charlie from me 🩷🩷

ynusername Believe me, Lily has the most fun, everyone spoils her so much... I think I had to bring an extra suitcase for all the souvenirs.

itslolasss hahahah, she deserves it, you both deserve it actually!!

The weekend unfolds in a whirlwind of activity, Lily becomes a permanent fixture at Ollie Bearman's side, much to the amusement (and slight jealousy) of the other drivers. Arthur and Lorenzo try in vain to win her attention, showering her with toys and sweets. But Lily's heart belongs to Ollie and the shiny Ferrari little car he gave her.

Now it is Sunday, the most anticipated day, you and Lily meet again in the Ferrari garage, you both watch Charles prepare to leave for the starting grid, but not before approaching you.

You smile softly at him. “Hey bébé, are you okay?” you asked him softly. (baby)

He shrugs. “I think so... I want to do well for both of you.” He says and you give him a kiss on the tip of his nose. “To be honest with you, I'm a little bit nervous.” he whispers.

You just smile at him again, you more than anyone know how anxious he sometimes gets before the races. “You will do great my darling, but one thing is for sure... Lily and I will always be proud of you no matter what happens.” You whisper to him and give him a small but necessary hug. “Now go out there and attack them all, okay?”

Lily smiles at him and hug him too. “Papa win?” she asked him.

He smiles. “We will see it my love, we'll see.”

The atmosphere is electric as the grid forms up. Lily sits on your lap, bouncing with anticipation while you both look at the screens where they show the formation of the starting grid. You feel nervous inside, something that always happens to you when you watch the races at home with Lily, but this time it is much worse, you feel anxious and expectant of what could happen and what Charles can do on track.

The race starts, and Charles battles his way through the field, since he started from P5, Lily cheers him on with every overtake and you do the same, you two are probably the most enthusiastic fans in the Ferrari garage, Andrea, Charles's personal trainer, smiles when he sees you two so happy and bubbly with every action Charles does on the track, he knows how important it is to Charles that you two be there for him.

You smile at Lily as you watch Charles move into P2 mid-race. “Oh god, look at papa go lily, he's really going for that win.” you whisper at her.

Now it's the last lap and Charles is neck and neck with Max for the race win, Lily is on the edge of her seat.

“Come on, Charles... You can do this.” you say while holding your breath.

Charles makes a daring move and takes the lead. Lily erupts in cheers. “Dada win! Dada win!”

Charles crosses the finish line first and the crowd goes wild. Lily jumps up and down, clapping her hands. You have a smile from ear to ear and no wonder, the first race you attend as a family and he decides to win for you.

The mechanics congratulate you two and seeing that everyone is going to the podium, Lily also wants to go, you are a little hesitant to really go there until Andrea takes you and Lily to the podium.

When they arrive at the parc fermé area, they see everyone in a state of ecstasy and happiness. Charles gets out of the car raising his arms in celebration and goes out to hug his team. You smile when you see him so happy and proud of himself... When he takes off his helmet and balaclava, he looks at you two and smiles from ear to ear, he runs towards you to give you both a huge hug and he kiss you on the lips, not caring who is looking at that wholesome moment, you feel him smiling in the kiss and you smile too.

***

After the podium, you and Lily wait for the champion in his driver's room. Both of you can't stop feeling excited and happy about what you've just experienced. After a couple of minutes, Charles enters holding his winner trophy, you and Lily rush to congratulate him.

“Papa win!” she smiles as he hugs her back.

He hugs Lily tightly. “That's right, sweetheart! Papa won for his two biggest fans!” He winks at you.

You smile and kiss his cheek. “We're so proud of you baby! You did a great job out there!”

“A job that would be impossible without my greatest supporters.” He smiles again, like a little boy.

“I know sweetheart.” You say and notice how Lily starts to yawn against his shoulder. ”Looks like all the excitement is catching up with our little champion... Time to head back, I think.” You let out a giggle.

He giggles too. “Right, just let me take a shower, change and we'll go, it's that okay?” he asks and you smiled and nod.

“As you say captain Lec!” you say and he laughs, you take Lily back into your arms and she lays her head on your shoulder.

***

The door clicks shut behind you as you enter your hotel room. Charles carefully lays a sleeping Lily on the bed.

You carefully undress Lily to put her in a onesie pajama. “She must be exhausted. What a whirlwind of a weekend!”

“She's out like a light. All that cheering must have tired her out.” he giggles softly.

You finish putting her pajamas on and you pull the covers gently over her small frame. “But of course, she was very happy to see you in your element, love.” you smile again.

“The best kind of whirlwind, you know? Seeing her so happy... it makes everything worth it.” He walks over to you and wraps his arms around you.

You lean your head on his chest. “Seeing you win was so so special too. You were pretty amazing out there.”

He kisses your hair. “I couldn't do it without you two there.”

A comfortable silence settles between you for a moment. You listen to the soft sounds of Lily's breathing.

“I still can't believe how much attention she got from all the drivers. Lewis practically adopted us!” you say.

He chuckles. “He does have a soft spot for kids. And let's face it, Lily's pretty irresistible.” He says.

“Especially to Ollie. That boy is a natural with her.”

He raise an eyebrow playfully. “Don't worry, are you jealous love?”

You punch him lightly on the arm. “Maybe just a little... Don't you want her to be a daddy's girl?”

He nuzzles his nose against yours. “Of course I do babe. But seeing her happy makes me happy, no matter who she's playing with.”

You look out the window at the city lights twinkling below. A comfortable silence settles again.

“This has been the perfect weekend. Maybe we can bring her to another race, you know, after the summer break, what do you think?” you ask him softly.

He kisses your forehead. “I'd love that chérie. We can make it a family tradition.” he sighs contently and then he whispers. “Thank you for everything. This weekend wouldn't have been the same without you two.”

You place a kiss on his jaw. “It was nothing, thanks to you for letting us fully enter your world, love.” you whisper and he smiles.

He pulls you closer, and you lean into his embrace. The sound of Lily's gentle breaths fills the room, a peaceful melody after a whole weekend of a high-octane excitement... The hotel room, bathed in the warm glow of the bedside lamp, feels like a haven, a family haven. You close your eyes, picturing future races with you and Lily cheering her Papa on, a happy sigh escaping your lips.

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charles_leclerc

liked by antoinetruchet, oscarpiastri, susie_wolff and others.

tagged ynusername

charles_leclerc first P1 of the year!! 🏆 I can't stop thanking the team for the hard work that has been done in the last few months, it has been quite hard but it was all worth it 💪🏻 I also want to thank my biggest fans ynusername and little miss Lily, who accompanied me on their first gp weekend!! 💗💗 Thank you very much my loves, thank you for always supporting me and being there for me at all times 🤍 Thank you for making this weekend even more special for me, love you lots!! 💗💗 Now is the time to recharge and come back better than ever 💪🏻💪🏻 see you in zandvoort!! 🇳🇱

see 2.637.863 comments

user4 oh my, the kiss and hug on the podium was incredible to see, congratulations champ!!! 💪🏻🏆

georgerussell63 it was nice to finally meet Lily this weekend, the official f1 mascot 🫶🏻🫶🏻

landonorris she owned the paddock the weekend, she left me without candies :(

charles_leclerc stop‼️talking‼️about‼️my‼️ daughter‼️ please‼️

lorenzotl let's go little brooo!!

user1 the official f1 family 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻

alex_albon little Lily was the star of this weekend <3

ynusername oh babeee 🥺🥺😭 don't thank us, we are more than happy to accompany you and support you every weekend if necessary! We love you so much champ!! 🤍🤍🤍🤍

charles_leclerc honey, I love you both so so much, thank you for coming with me, I really can't find how to thank you 🥹🥹💗

ynusername you don't have to do it, it's not necessary my love 💗💗 now let's focus on taking that well-deserved break, because I think we deserve it ☺️☺️

charles_leclerc I'm looking towards it amour 🥰🥰

user6 oh my heart... the last picture, Lily looks so adorable and cute with her Olaf backpack 🥺���

logansargeant the most wholesome family on the grid 🤍 congrats dude!!

lewishamilton it was lovely to meet Lily and ynusername this weekend 🤍🤍 you have a beautiful family mate

charles_leclerc thank you lew 🤍

ynusername it was also lovely to meet you too Lewis <3 <3

[bellezaycafe]

Get Your Shit Together - Part 2

context: Sadie volunteered for the 2024 Melbourne GP during a gap year away from uni. She is 20.

Part 1

Comments; i’m tempted to make this a series… I have some stuff drafted?

“Charles!” The reported called him over. “We’ve just found out that you’re first! How does that feel?”

“I mean,” he chuckled and scratched the back of his neck. “I just found out myself, we all did. I’m still shocked! I don’t know what happened with the penalty or the flags, I’m just happy to have another win!”

“You were only just told that you won?”

Charles laughed through his, “yeah!”

After a small pause he added, “I think a volunteer was given the standing from the FIA. She told us, and told some of us off for complaining.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“We were all pretty annoyed by the penalties; the race ended half an hour ago and we were only just being told. It is frustrating, we are all frustrated."

Oscar Piastri's Interview was similar.

"That was very well done out there, Oscar. How does the P2 in your home race feel?"

"I'm still trying to process the fact that I scored a podium in my home race. It's an incredible feeling."

"Do you agree with Charles about the FIA handing out penalties so late?"

"Yeah," the Australian answered without hesitation. "Frustration is the right word for what we're all feeling."

With a nod and a thank you, he handed back the micrphone and walked away.

Lando stepped up.

"Congratulations," the reporter began. "That is another double podium for McLaren, how does it feel?"

"I'm gonna be honest, undeserved. Don't get me wrong, I think I did well today and I'm proud of Oscar and our team, but I didn't cross that line in third. I don't know the full story about Max's penalty but it just seems undeserved, you know? He should have kept the win. I should be P4, not Max. The FIA needs to sort it out."

"Wow, that's a strong opinion. Will you get in trouble for saying that live?"

Lando shrugged and pursed his lips. "If I do, I do."

His PR manager pulled him away before he could say anything more incriminating.

Then Max stepped up, still fuming.

"Max," the reporter began.

"I know what you're going to ask," he interrupted. "Yes, I'm upset about the penalty. Gasly passed me under yellow flag conditions. I was told that I was allowed to take the position back. It is an unfair penalty."

"Charles told us that a volunteer told all the drivers off for complaining. Surely you have a right to complain?"

Max let out a surprised huff of laughter. "Charles is being Charles! That volunteer told me off. I blamed her for the penalty and she put me back in my place. Volunteers don't dictate penalties and can't change them."

Max shrugged and moved to hand the microphone back to the reporter. She held up a hand to ask one last question.

"Do you think the FIA should revoke the penalty?"

"Yes. The FIA shouldn't have given me a penalty and they shouldn't have handed it out half an hour after. I think that all of the drivers are sick of being told what place we finished well after the race."

"Thank you for your time, Max. It was still an incredible race."

He nodded his thanks and moved on.

It was the same reply over and over.

We are tired of the FIA handing out penalties well after the fact.

We are frustrated.

We are annoyed.

We. We. We.

Sadie never watched any of the interviews. She didn't realise the impact he'd had on the drivers.

As she wiped a hand across her sweaty brow the next day, she wondered if they had said anything. She was about to ask her friend, Aurora, when a shadow fell over her.

She turned to see Max Verstappen.

"Hi?" She frowned.

"I'm sorry" he blurted, squeezing his eyes shut in mortification at his slip up.

"What?"

"About yesterday," he muttered, opening the crystal blue eyes. "I shouldn't have tried to intimidate you."

Sadie laughed and put down the tent peg she'd been using to remove other tent pegs. "The key word there is tried."

Max smiled at her laughter. He chuckled a little and stared down at his feet in the dirt.

"But," Sadie continued, "thank you for apologising. I didn't take it to heart. You were trying to win every reason this season and break another record. Yesterday, you lost that and it made you angry. I know, so it's okay."

Max's eyes widened at her nonchalant statement about his goals.

"What?" she asked impatiently. "I figured out your goal? It wasn't hard, Verstappen."

"No, it's not that."

"What, then?"

"You had already forgiven me?"

"Yes, I forgave you the moment you left the room. You were angry and that was your response to the anger."

"That doesn't make it okay," he pressed. He didn't know why he was pushing her, she’d already forgiven him.

"Which is why you will never do it again." She pointed a dangerous finger at his face.

"Okay," he chuckled, holding his hands up in surrender.

"Good. Now I’ve got things to do and you probably have somewhere you have to be.” Sadie pointed at the gazebo and then the bag it belonged it.

“Right, yes. I have a flight in a few hours, so I need to get to the airport. Have a great day, yeah? It was amazing to meet you.” He stepped backwards, with a thumbs up.

“It was honour to meet you too Max Verstappen. Never forget who you are.”

Max had to take a deep breath as he strode away.

Never forget who you are.

You are Max Verstappen the world champion, not Max Verstappen the upset child.

He made a promise to himself then, and to Sadie, that he would hold himself to a higher standard. He could be better, he should be better, he would be better.

——$——

Masterlist

[hyperfixatingonsonicsohard]

I LOVE the idea of Amy Rose in the Sonic Movies

and if she's not in it the Sonic Movie 3 in the end credits scene at LEAST I will be so sad.

This is the continuation of This Art Post Here , of my design for a Movie Version of Amy

Here is all the little ideas I had for this AU written down:

(Sorry about the weird format)

I'm not sure how or Why Amy gets to Earth, but I imagine she learns about the heroic Sonic the Hedgehog(maybe she overhears something? Sees a newspaper/newscast? Idk)and begins a search for him.

Amy found the Walkowski's on her own, but when she arrived Tom had taken the boys out for a day of fishing so only Maddie was home.

Maddie was surprised

She may have 3 alein kids, but there will always be a moment of shock and "ANOTHER ONE?!" for her

She gets Amy cleaned up before Tom and the others get back home

It turns into a little fashion show, and Maddie is estatic

Living with little boys she doesnt get the oppertunity for dress up & tea parties often

Only when she's visiting Rachel and Jojo

When the others get home, Maddie gathers them in the kitchen/living room before bringing Amy in

- Tom faints

- "There's a GIRL now?!" — Tom

- Sonic is super excited to meet another hedgehog is slips his mind that shes a girl.

- and then it clicks and he's like

- "wait she's a girl-Oh my god shes a girl ive never met a girl what do i say she's really cute ulchhfccvjvukzkg"

- Reverse Sonamy, I'm a total sucker for it!

- Tails is curious as to who she is and why she's here

- Knuckles is wary of a new face

- Amy gets overwhelmed and summons her Piko Piko hammer

- Knuckles is no longer wary

- "Ah! Clearly you are a Warrior, here to join as a member our clan in protecting the master Emerald!"

- Amy ends up becoming a member even if it wasn't her orginal intention for meeting them.

Rachel, as we know, doesnt't really any of the Sonic characters.

- EXCEPT Amy.

- She's pretty, pink, and she refuses to let the other boys taint her!

- "Maddie you can't be serious about letting such an angel stay with those ruffions you call your kids! No, NUh-Uh, I'm taking this one you already have 3."

- Rachel takes in Amy to live with her and Jojo in San Francisco

- JoJo looks up to Amy like an older sister

- Maddie sends Amy off with her iconic red dress.

- When Sonic first sees her in it, he runs with his super speed all the way back to his old burrow, screams, and runs back and pretends it didnt happen.

- Amy enjoys listening to Music with Wade when he picks her up from the airport to visit the Walkowski's

- Tom took Amy fishing, as he's done all the kids, and it turns out Amy already knows how to fish!

- She's not bad at it, average skill

- She says someone named Big the Cat taught her

- She plays baseball with the Walkowski's

- She's incredible at the bat, but is no match for Sonic's speed being able to catch any home run she hits

- At least when Sonic is able to snap out of his admiral-gaze at her in time to do so.

- Sonic is totally down hard for Amy, thinks shes so cool and totally out of his leauge(No Baseball Pun intended)

- Amy is oblivious to this

- Amy also thinks Sonic is cute, but is overall good friends with all of team Sonic

- Knuckles thinks Amy is a good mate for Sonic. Someone strong to protect and provide for his little brother

- Knuckles also sees Amy as a friendly rival, someone almost if not as strong as he is

- Tails doesnt fully understand what Knuckles is talking about with "mating" and why Sonic always blushes around her but he enjoys Amy's attention and praise about his inventions

Thats all I have right now, but I'm glad I was finally able to write down this idea lol!

(Again, PERFECT TIME TO POST THIS when the new trailer for Sonic 3 dropped today!)

I really hope you all liked this!

Pls Reblog&Comment&Like!

EDIT: Sonic 3 Spoilers!!!

AMY IS IN THE MOVIES NOW!!!!!WOOOO!!!!

[detective-dick-gumshoes-pot-room]

Reasons Why Akanidai is Perfect 😌

Making my long overdo ship essay because my friend finally coerced me.

Reason 1: Character compatibility

Akane is an incredibly energetic character who lacks a lot of emotional regulation and impulse control. Nekomaru is one of the only characters who can match her energy, but he's also a manager by trade. So, he winds up being the perfect fit to work with Akane's energy. They also tend to match each other's humor.

Where they really shine is Nekomaru's ability to be the only male character whom Akane doesn't feel the need to "Sell Herself" too. Which is something she has the tendency to do thanks to trauma. Nekomaru is one of the least perverted characters I would argue, and thus doesn't really give Akane the impression he's trying to get something out of her. Because he's not, his only motivation is to help Akane out in the long run. For someone like Akane, who has never been taken care of, that's a huge deal.

Reason 2: Their Canon Relationship

Akane has a very traumatic history. Without getting too far into it, she's pretty much been abused by every man (and people in general tbh) in her life up until this point. She doesn't trust people all the way. She doesn't bother learning names half the time because she's so used to people dying around her.

[That reflects in her time spent with Hajime. She forgets his name constantly in the freetime events. And even when they're working together (chapter 2) she's on edge around the guy. Preparing herself for the worst. ]

But not with Nekomaru. The two will spar anytime Akane runs into him. She never (to my knowledge) makes the same comments towards Nekomaru that she would to thr other guys. She feels actually safe about him. And that's further supportive by the whole "It" stick between the two. While the whole scene is played up for laughs as an innuendo, it's a big deal that Akane feels comfortable enough to let Nekomaru give her massages. Especially since she has trauma around that kind of touch specifically.

Akane is also very admiring of Nekomaru. Usually, when she's referring to him in dialog, it's comments about how he's the strongest guy she's ever seen. About how he motivates her and gets her excited to spar just from walking by. Which is incredibly sweet.

Meanwhile, for Nekomaru, Akane gives him a purpose. She's an athlete on the island who needs help in more ways than one, so he immediately takes responsibility over her. Taking care of her physical well-being, helping her train and develop her talents properly (something she never really learned to do because her skills were self-taught for survival). To the point where he insists he has to be the one to reign Akane in because he knows he's the only one who's going to get her to calm down.

So naturally, the two get closer and closer. Until Nekomaru steps in and takes the rocket hit for Akane. Something he does with absolutely no hesitance.

And boy, does Akane really shine in both instances where Nekomaru "dies". During the first incident, she's in a lot of shock and denial. Akane knows how bad she messed up and feels pretty guilty over it. But despite how quick she usually is to accept death, she doesn't here. She continues to insist that Nekomaru can't be taken down by something like that. She literally can't imagine a scenario where he dies in such a way (heavy denial and admiration at play). But Nekomaru? Assuming he's about to die, the only thing he can think of is to tell Akane to live.

When Nekomaru comes back as a robot, there's this air of awkwardness between them. Akane, for maybe one of the first times, feels incredibly guilty about what happened (despite her denial). Seeing Nekomaru in a completely new body must have been quite the shock. Knowing how badly hurt he was. But she buckles down and commits to paying him back for everything he's done for her.

During Chapter 4, however, when Nekomaru dies for real, Akane cries for the first (real time) in the game. Straight up wails when she finds out. And immediately goes to revenge as her only way to deal with the pain. Pain that other characters recognize as Chiaki encourages us to give Akane a moment alone with Nekomaru to mourn properly. Not to mention Gundham going out of his way to tell her that Nekomaru accepted his challenge and fought until the end (incredibly important for her to hear).

No one is really sure how Akane will react to this news, but they all acknowledge how much it hurts her. Which is saying a lot since Akane is constantly putting up a front to prevent looking weak.

Just looking at what the game tells us about the characters, Akane and Nekomaru are extremely close. Their relationship is built on a trust that's rare for Akane to give out. Nekomaru learns her boundaries and figures out ways to keep her mind off the situation, but more than that, he's constantly dedicated to keeping Akane safe. He takes two rocket shots for her and ultimately helps free the entire group from the funhouse.

Two incredibly close characters whose development in the story is tied into each other.

Reason 3: Despair Arc

This is a shorter note, but @monokuma-apologist pointed it out to me, and it is very important I think.

In the dreaded episode two of Despair arc, when Akane and Nekomaru feel the effects of the spiked soup, instead of going nuts like the rest of their classmates,

Nekomaru is just concerned about Akane at first, and the second she tells him to not touch her- He doesn't. Man respects her boundaries, and they both just end up staring at each other quietly for the rest of the time. Very much attracted, but very respectful still. It's so nice 🙂

Conclusion

Akane and Nekomaru make the perfect pair together. Akane has been hurt. Nekomaru knows that and adapts immediately. Akane trusts and opens up with Nekomaru on a level she just doesn't with the other characters. He helps her find her footing in the world and helps pull her from her survival instincts. And Akane gives Nekomaru motivation and purpose in an awful situation. As long as Akane is around, Nekomaru works his hardest to keep everyone's spirits light and make sure people are kept safe. As long as he's doing that, Akane can feel safe too.

But just on a basic chemistry level, it's hard to beat out a pair who match each other's energy so well. They're both loud, into roughhousing, can be a little dense, but both try their best to contribute. There's no real judgment between them. Just real, genuine affection and friendship.

And let's be real, the writers totally ship it. 😚

[Footnote: Me and my friend have the personal headcanon that the reason Nekomaru let's lose and trains so hard with Akane is because of his heart condition. It's always held him back, so once he gets put into a killing game where everyday could be his last he decides "fuck it" and tears up the beach with Akane because why not have some fun?]

[beanghostprincess]

Okay but that comment about Buggyvand Shanks just.... finding a baby in a treasure chest gave me the silliest, goofiest, saddest idea ever.

On the one hand - the fates align perfectly for that. It just comes full fucking circle with them finding a baby in a chest, so similar to Shanks being found.

But Uta.

If Shanks and Buggy find a baby in a chest together, it'll absolutely go full Oh Ours Now, but Shanks would have this overhanging terror. He failed one child already. With a story so like his daughter's Uta's, will this baby be cursed too? Is it him? Is he the curse? This thread of connection, is that going to be the nail in the coffin of this fate? Is it even alright for him to be happy, to have a child, when he's already failed one so thoroughly?

It would be agony. Therefore I propose two options.

1) Uta and Buggy finding one another very early on in their respective times. Buggy somehow through a series of incredibly unfortunate events winds up on Elgia. She takes one look at Uta, goes "well, I guess I HAVE always had a soft spot for redheads. And this one is only half so it's fine probably" and offers to take her away from there. She gets the story from the child later on, in tiny increments, and it has a big reveal when Uta happens to go to her after a horrific nightmare, just to find her throwing knives at a bounty poster of Shanks. There's panic and tears and questions and suddenly two girls find themselves holding one another and finding solace in someone hurt by the same man's best intentions.

Uta joins Buggy on the down low. When she hits an age where she can feasibly, safely perform, Buggy helps her find her footing, helps facilitate opportunities, and Uta is a star, a singer, and she's so successful and happy. ((And if Buggy had a recording of an interview when Uta first started out, when a reporter asked the split haired girl who her biggest supporters are, when Uta gives a blinding smile and says "I am who I am today thanks to my mom!", well... fuck off and mind your own business))

Marineford goes down, a traumatic experience for everyone. When Buggy got arrested, Uta took a leave of absence from the spotlight, went home, and Cabaji, Mohji, Ritchie, they all were there for her as best they could be. Alvida, too, to an extent, and Uta was surprised because while Alvida was her auntie, she hadn't expected the woman to be such an anchor for her. They get word of an execution, and the crew is docked at a small island for the week for supplies, planning, etc. Uta is in a bar with Alvida, both pouring over maps and eating, when there's a commotion. Someone is setting up a projector Denden, it's chaos, and suddenly Uta can't fucking breathe because that's her mom on the screen, bruised, exhausted, pale, and in colors she'd never be caught dead in, on a battlefield.

She watches the entire streamed events of the war.

She bites back a scream when she sees Luffy, she chokes when he calls Ace his brother. She can't look away, can't miss a single second of it, she isn't there why isn't she there but she's viewing it so if watching is all she can do, then she will do it.

She is knocked breathless when she sees her dad Shanks on screen. When she sees her mom and him fight, when she sees that look in his eye and when did he lose an entire arm?? But that little piece of her that never learned to let go, it uncoiled because if nothing else, if Shanksbwas there, her mom would be safe - traumatized, maybe, hurt without a doubt. But she would live. And Luffy would live. And that's all she could ask and pray for.

Shanks offers Buggy a lift home. Uta is torn between relief and bristling fury, but she decides to be grateful. Buggy agrees, if only because the enemy you know is safer than the one you don't. Uta can read the lies on her tongue as easily as breathing.

Buggy calls them that night.

Uta is in a daze, but Buggy asks her if she's alright if Shanks drops her off. "You don't have to see him," she tells the girl softly, voice hushed, "and he doesn't know. It's on your terms, baby, I just need to know where to tell Limejuice to dock."

Uta's speaking before she can think. "Come to us, mom. I'll be fine. I just need to see you."

And she. She is alright. Part of her aches for could-have-beens, for what-ifs, but therapy has helped, and she isn't that blind little girl anymore. She's strong. She's successful. She's human and hurt and that's alright. But more than anything, she is her mother's daughter and Nothing Will Stop Her. Nothing Would Dare.

The reunion is comical. Shanks is speechless and Uta just arches a brow at him before turning to Buggy, giving a mischievous grin, and loudly calling out, "Mama, I missed you!!"

Redhaired Shanks, Emperor of the Seas, The Man Who Stopped A War With His Arrival, faints flat on his deck. Uta doesn't bother stopping her cackle.

Things are... rocky. Buggy immediately gets fussed over by the medics in their little troupe, then set on a strict order to rest and recuperate. Alvida proceeds to threaten Shanks with further dismemberment if he upsets her sister or niece. Uta flits between helping around on ship, sitting with her mom, and Thinking.

She has some things to say, after all.

Things she goes to tell late one evening about three days after the meet up. Turns out Buggy had already beat her to tearing the redhead a new one the night they all met up and Uta unflinchingly met him face to face. He hears her out. Listens to her ramble and rant and rave. And at the end, he asks if he still had the right to offer her a hug. She barrels into him, and it's different, him having one arm, but he smells the same, squeezes the same, and he feels so safe, even years of heartbreak later. She asks him why.

And he explains.

They work on it, on their relationship. And in doing so, it opens an avenue for him to work on things with Buggy as well. It's new and hard and complicated but it's worth it. It's worth every ounce of effort and then some.

Then one day, on a rare date, Buggy and Shanks happen across this little treasure chest. It's exciting, the adventure fir Shanks, the rltreasure fir Buggy, and they're both so excited, they pop the hinge, flip it open and-

Two big florid eyes blink up at them, pink eyes framed by green lashes, bright emerals wisps of hair on a tiny little head. The baby hiccups softly, a tiny little fist escaping the bundle of blanket, and Buggy is furious. "Who the fuck leaves a BABY in a treasure chest in the fucking WOODS," she's screeching. Then she freezes, worried to scare the infant, but the baby just giggles, little arm waving, and Shanks is staring the child down like a man seeing a ghost. Buggy scoops the baby, pausing at the odd feeling. She moves the blanket, and a soft little oh leaves her mouth. He's missing an arm. He's... oh. That's why.

They bring the baby back to Karai Bari, debating what to do. Buggy is adamant they at least find him a place where his needs will be met. He's too tiny for a prosthetic, not yet, but she's seen too many people be dropped for less. He's innocent. He needs someone to be there and love him and raise him right.

Uta is taken by him, his infectious laugh and curious fingers. "Why not just keep him?"

Buggy and Shanks stare at her, the Seraphs looking up from their blocks, Croc and Hawk glancing up from their books/maps. Theyvstare, a sioent question. And Uta just smiles, shrugs. "I turned out alright. Besides, dad, with mom, Father and Papa around, you're not gonna do anything monumentally stupid this go around. I think I'd like another baby sibling. What do you guys think?"

She holds the baby put towards the little seraphs. Birdie hums softly, shuffling closer. "Brother," he asks softly. Uta nods. "... I am fine with this." He then proceeds to poke the bake's little cheek, earning a giggle and grasping little hand gripping his own. He even smiles.

Angel just hums softly before looking back to the adults. "I... want to keep him." Then he grabs a green crayon, a pink crayons, and goes back to work on his family portrait. "Ours now."

How can they say no to that?

So Shanks and Buggy get their baby, Uta has a family bigger than she ever dreamed of, Crocodile and Mihawk are along for the ride- everyone's happy.

Now baby just needs a name.

This is precious to me. Perfect. The bond between Buggy and Uta always makes me so emotional,, Buggy would be such a great mom to her and Uta finally finding a home after what happened with Shanks is,,, Perfect. But then they meet again and they start a little family with the new baby and,, This is just so well-built, imo. Perfection. Also, Buggy and Shanks getting back together romantically would be great because it's not like there's anything stopping them anymore and Uta keeps saying Buggy deserves better (kind of to tease her dad, but yeah) but she actually is extremely happy about it. Not to mention Crocodile and Mihawk there in the middle of all the drama makes everything better, tbh. That family is HUGE. And both Uta and the baby are extremely protected (not that Uta needs protection because she's a menace to society, but whatever). This is extremely sweet 😭 My girl Uta deserves a family like this and a happy ending.

[ghostofvalorie]

That Essay

@forsaire tagged me and now I MUST provide! You opened Pandora's box on this one.

To adhere to the rules I will first provide FOUR and ONLY FOUR of my fictional crushes! And to make it easier on us all I've narrowed it down to games only, so here we go!

I'm starting off from the very beginning of my journey into crushing on non-existent people, and people who have read my tags before might know this one already!

Malik Al Sayf from Assassins Creed 1 - 2007

A man whom you've wrong by being arrogant and then spends the next few hours of the game being yelled at by him, and rightfully so. Not only do you cost him his arm and place as an assassin in the brotherhood, but his younger brother as well.

Eventually Altaïr stops begin a prick and apologizes and Malik, bless his heart forgives him.

Still... not me rolling into Jerusalem hoping, wishing, to get yelled at because Malik's Voice Actor goes HARD <3 I love him and his 7 whole polygons! NEXT!!

Keeping it somewhat chronological:

The Arishok from Dragon Age 2 - 2011

He beeg. He got horns. He is technically an antagonist in the game but he has a moral code that makes sense to him that he is willing to kill and die for. Qunari famously live their lives incredibly black and white so to him he is in the right, even if we disagree.

But he just got a wholeass vibe, and he'll say nice things such as

"I have a growing lack of disgust for you" and I mean, with that voice... say no more sir. *takes shirt off*

NR 3: Adam Jensen from Deus Ex - 2011-2016

My cyborg husband <3

Ex-swat turned security guy, then interpool agent (depends on which game you are playing)

He's just an incredibly good guy, the sweetest person on the block. Ofc it depends on how you play and what choices you make, but MY Adam is a sweeheart that will go out of his way to help people.

And my boi got sass, he'll be snarky to literally anyone, his boss, the cops, criminals you name it.

He's also secretly a little funny. <3

Nr 4: Arthur Morgan from Red Dead Redemption 2 - 2018

I mean first off, he do a little *mlem* when he drinks coffee... Do i even need to say more?

Arthur is just such a perfect sad boy. Raised to believe his only worth lies in killing people when in reality he is incredibly competent, sharp and caring. Again depends on how you play the game, but my Arthur is the goodest boi in the west.

Now that was four, oh but look, somehow completely unrelated to all this, some other honorable mentions seems to have ended up after the cut, how silly of me!

And @xintothewoodswegox, show us what you got!

Beast from Beauty and the Beast - 2017

No further comment, your honor, if you've seen the movie you should know.

Kaidan Alenko from Mass Effect - 2012

How can we not love the powerful nerdass space magician! He's caring, he is cute, he is Canadian and schrodinger's person of color!

He also glow blue, what else can you possible want? I for sure do NOT kick my feet and twirl my hair anytime he wants to talk to me.

Eris Goddess of Chaos from Sinbad - 2003

I MEAN LOOK AT HER?!?!?!? Again an antagonist, but she is sexy about it.

Helga Sinclair from Atlantis - 2001

I'm-I i mean, I don't even have words. Every time I SEE Helga my brain flat-lines I can't help it.

THAT GIF THO???

Majima Goro from the Like a Dragon series of games

No comment, because if i start i will NEVER stop, he's story is too good.

Simon 'Ghost' Riley from Call of Duty MWII - 2022

I could literally put ALL the characters from that game in this list. ALL OF THEM, but to keep this somewhat short I've chosen ONE and i've chosen Ghost, the most tragic man alive.

Kar'niss from Baldur's Gate 3 - 2023

Another TRAGIC boi, missunderstood and abused </3 I could take care of him. LET ME TAKE CARE OF HIM LARIAN

Jonathan Reid from Vampyr - 2018

You didn't think I'd squeeze in a vampire this late, did you?

I wasn't overly impressed by Jonathan from the start, BUT, he is FASCINATING if you play him as a bloodthirsty villain willing to murder everyone for power! I'm here for bad-boy Reid!

Lastly, for now:

Corvo Attano from Dishonored - 2012

Also an incredibly tragic man, who's fate you hold in your hands with your actions!

He's just hot, he's a dilf, he can succumb to grief and violence or rise above it to save not only his daughter but an entire empire from destruction.

I'm not sure i've y'all have noticed the pattern yet but let me spell it out for you:

PEOPLE THAT CAN ABSOLUTELY DESTROY ME! Look at them all! So STRONG! So POWERFUL! Fuck, mess me up fam!

And the beauty lies in that they never would. Or I mean Eris might... but I'm in a firm belief that the others would never harm someone they care about and ain't that just the purest thing you've ever heard.

Now this was only the highlights of my fictional crushes, I've kept most of the absolute freaks out for now. Maybe I'll do an updated list later where werewolves and Cthulhu makes the cut, we'll see. Now I know HP Lovecraft wasn't a very cool dude to say the least, but you expect me to be normal about the big tentacle monster? REALLY?

Lower your expectations.

[guess-that-ship]

S12 Round 3

A Clashing of Elements

cw: spoilers

Water is new to her abilities, viewing them as a gift with which to save people and bring justice. Fire is a veteran, having seen her powers lead to tragedy as a result of trying to help. She wants to teach Water a lesson, cruelly encouraging her to help only herself. Water is disgusted, and vows to take her down. The two violently fight on multiple occasions, narrowly avoiding grave injuries. But everything changes when they learned of how they were tricked, and what they gave up to earn their new abilities.

Fire extends an olive branch to Water, but she is unable to accept it. She no longer hates Fire, but she considers herself unworthy of living if she’s not sacrificing herself to save people. Eventually, this catches up to her. Water loses herself, becoming a twisted version causing rampant chaos. Fire is determined to save her. Even as Fire is beaten up, she continues to call out to Water. Nothing works. Eventually, Fire comments on how much it sucks to be alone. But she is going to be there for Water. With a kiss, she sacrifices herself to free Water’s soul and allow her to rest in peace.

In another world, Water finds Fire again. Water takes her hand and says that her biggest regret is not getting to have more time together. The two of them rest their heads together. It has been a tumultuous road, but perhaps they will be okay.

Old(ish) men one-sided yaoi

cw: spoilers

They are childhood best friends who swore they would always work together and never let the competitiveness for the job they both wanted get in the way of that… until character B gets a girlfriend and gets her pregnant and decides he will give up on that dream for his new dream: marry his gf and be a family man. Character A gets really hurt by this and cuts all contact immediately, swearing he will never forgive him.

Years later character A gets the job they both wanted and goes on to live his life wishing him and character B could meet again, but still being incredibly stuck in the past and hating him all the same. A then meets B's grandson due to work-related reasons and they end up working together but A is so petty that at the first disagreement they have he tries to beat the shit out of him. He later realizes he's just a nice, honest kid who is honestly kind of insane and it reminds him of B, so he let's him leave and decides to visit B.

B is really really exited to see A, who in his head is like "I hate you but I love you and I missed you but fuck you", and then they have a nice hug where A thinks about how gentle and kind B is and feels dumb for how he acted… until A tries to beat the shit out of him. They semi-reconcile and end up meeting up more tho, and B makes it abundantly clear again that he is very happy to reunite with A.

They later team up because they're worried about B's grandson and have a very meaningful talk where B reassures A that overall he has made a good impact on society and is doing a good job. A also realizes that he can't keep dwelling on the past and that B was not evil for deciding to change his plans for the future and go after the love of his now dead wife.

[roninishere]

right now.

part one.

Giyuu Tomioka x female reader

Warnings: angst, in the feels, anxiety, bullying, self hate, bad grammar?

Summary: Life is incredibly unfair at times, this was one of them.

||

“You don’t think I can handle being a Hashira anymore..don’t you?” The way your voice cracked, really made him feel guilty.

And the worst part was, he had so much to say to you, but he just couldn’t.

Neither one of you ever left things like this, never. He regretted it the very moment you left for your mission. He knew that was probably one of the worst things he could let you think, and him not say a damn word. cause it wasn’t true.

‘Lights go down and
The night is calling to me, yeah
I hear voices
Singing songs in the street and I know’

As if his anxiety wasn’t already always so high, it kept him laying awake in bed. And he wasn’t the only one that couldn’t sleep, little Mio would cry her little lungs out. Every night for the first week you were gone. After day four, Giyuu discovered that her sleeping on his chest after he sang her the lullaby that you use to, her chubby pale fingers wrapped around his pinky was the key.

She slept peacefully, at least that made one of them.

‘That we won't be going home
For so long, for so long, but I know
That I won't be on my own
Yeah, I love this feeling and

Right now I wish you were here with me (oh)
'Cause right now everything is new to me (oh)
You know, I can't fight the feeling
And every night I feel it
Right now I wish you were here with me (oh)’

Giyuus couldn’t help it but his anxiety was so bad this time around, maybe because he never failed to worry about you every time you left for a mission. He knew that you could take care of yourself, you were a Hashira after all, but something wasn’t right.

He hoped you’d complete your mission and be home soon.

Until a week turned into two weeks. No letter from you, just your crow reporting his biggest fear.

You had gone missing after your encounter with the demon.

||

So he searched for you, having your crow take him where you went missing. Nothing. He found nothing. It was like you vanished out of thin air. That’s what scared him.

All the worst possibilities had flooded in his mind. Not his beloved. He couldn’t lose you too. Seven days and not a trace of what could’ve happened to you.

Don’t give up. She would never on you.

‘Late-night spaces
With all our friends, you and me, yeah
Love these faces
Just like how it used to be’

“You know, she probably just got sick of your shit and took off. I know I would with that ‘I’m not like you guys’ attitude.” Sanemi shrugged as Master called for a Hashira meeting to discuss about their missing Hashira comrade, and of course everyone was getting their lick in.

Taking shots. Giyuu never gave a shit about what they thought of him, but this wasn’t the time to being making allegations. You’d never leave him, he knew that. You’d never. They all knew that. Even if you were upset with him about your fight, you’d always come home. He and Mio were your reason for living, the reason you never gave up in this harsh world.

“I never understood what she saw in you anyways. Mr. High and mighty, must’ve said some messed up stuff.” Obanai added.

Their comments just angered Giyuu, his expression staying the same as his hand on his side balled into a fist, really? Right now?

His wife is missing, their beloved Hashira, and all they heard was that they had an argument before you left? He’s better off on his own.

Fuck he missed when you use to attend these meetings with him, threatening to fight the Wind and Serpent Pillar if he didn’t keep your husbands name out his mouth. When he had to throw you over his shoulder, and line up on the opposite side of them.

“That’s enough! This is serious, no matter what happened before she left for her mission, the situation still stands, a Hashira is still missing!” The love pillar glared at the two other pillars as she stood her ground. “Stop saying things that aren’t true! it’s not like Y/N to just go missing, especially after an encounter with a demon. Instead of bullying Tomioka-San, remember that’s his daughters mother you’re speaking of!”

Shinobu set a hand on her friends shoulder seeing she got all worked up, and was nearly in tears.

Zoning out everyone, Giyuu set towards Masters Estate once Amane came out with Mio in her arms. “Tomioka-san, still no progress?” Giyuu returned her bow as he took the toddler in his arms.

“No,” his voice was calm as the little girl gripped his index finger in her chubby fingers with the cutest burst of laughter to see her father. “Would be alright if I bring her back tomorrow afternoon?”

He hadn’t noticed the pillars stopped their bickering behind him, seeing how much the little girl in his arms looking like their missing pillar. Same eyes, same smile, and hair color. If Mio didn’t have Giyuus pale complexion and similar hair style, she would’ve been a spilt image of her mother.

“Are you sure you don’t want to stay for a few more days? You’ve been gone for a week, you should rest.”

He wanted to, but he couldn’t give up now “I’ll rest once I find Y/N. I made a promise, isn’t that right princess?” His dark blue ocean eyes were soft as he caress her cheek, giving it a little pinch getting a squeal out of the baby.

“I understand, then of course, bring her by tomorrow afternoon,” The masters wife waved at the little girl.

‘And we won't be going home
For so long, for so long, but I know
I won't be on my own
On my own, I'm feeling like

Right now I wish you were here with me (oh)
'Cause right now everything is new to me (oh)
You know, I can't fight the feeling
And every night I feel it
Right now I wish you were here with me (oh)’

“almost done princess.” It was easy for him to do his own hair, but doing it on someone else, let alone a baby, was harder. Well he just had to be very delicate. His hands were gently as he brushed her hair that was surprisingly long, already down past her shoulders. The Hashira sat on his knees behind Mio who was making cute silly faces to her father, waiting for him to see her reflection in the mirror.

When he finished putting her hair in a loose ponytail, he sighed softly before looking up in the mirror to see her sticking her tongue at him before breaking out in a giggle fit before she tried to crawl away, “and where do you think you’re going, come here silly,” he crawled over to her playfully as she let out playfully screams before he snatched her up in his arms “I gotcha!”

“D..da-ada!” Mio exclaimed causing Giyuu to freeze, did she just? She just said her first word!

He smiled so big at her of happiness before a feeling of sadness washed over him, she said her first word…and you weren’t here. You were missing her first word.

If you were here, he could see you getting all excited yet jealous that of course her daughters first word was dada! You’d pout but definitely treasure this moment with him. He never dropped his smile, not wanting to upset his daughter as he fought the fears that were building up.

I’m sorry I failed you. I’m sorry I failed to protect you. I’m so sorry. I will find you and bring you back home.

God he missed you so much, so fucking much. He felt like someone stabbed him, and was turning the blade in his stomach over and over. Like a thousand pounds were on his chest, making it so hard to fucking breathe. He felt someone had a grasp on his heart, squeezing it to see how long before its burst.

His heart was breaking every second you were away from them, every time he subconsciously thought of the worst.

||

After being unsuccessful the second time, he grew frustrated, but he wasn’t giving up. He made a promise to his pride and joy that he would bring you back home.

“Alright,” he stood over Mio as the little girl stood up, she had been determined for the past few days, trying over and over again, now matter how hard she fell. Definitely reminded him of you, too stubborn to stop. Slowly and steadily letting go of her hands, Giyuu walked over a few paces as she struggled to stand on her own. “Come here Mio, walk to me.”

His arms reached out for the toddler as she took a very wobbly first step, nearly falling but caught herself with her hand before pushing back up. The second step made the Hashira smile, her first steps already. The third one quickly turned into a sloppy fourth one when she crashed into Giyuus arms with a fit of giggles. Bringing her into his lap, he smothered her in face kisses “Good job princess,” he nearly folded when she reached out, tugging on his cheek.

You missed her first steps too.

Y/N, wherever you are, I hope you’re safe, just hold out a little longer.

‘Lights go down and
I hear you calling to me, yeah

Right now I wish you were here with me (oh)
'Cause right now everything is new to me (oh)
You know, I can't fight the feeling
And every night I feel it
Right now I wish you were here with me (oh)’

On his third attempt, he went nine miles north of where you encountered the demon, to find ripped pieces of your haori around the area. Picking up them up, the pieces lead him to w trail where your sword laid, nearly covered in leaves.

His heart steered to swell, his hands started shaking when he bent down to pick your sword up.

Not his Y/N. Please not her.

How much more would this world take from him?

Balling his fists, his cloudy vision searched every inch of the area for you, you were close, he knew it. “Y-Y/N?!”

The more he called out your name, the more his voice broke, where were you?

Give me a sign please.

Instead he felt the presence of a demon, gripping your sword tightly in his hands. The footsteps got closer, right behind the Hashira, and once he jumped up, flipping back to attack… he froze, unable to commit as your once beautiful eyes were now large cat like ones.

No. Impossible!

He kicked you away from him, hating the twisted turn in his stomach of causing harm to you. Once he landed in his feet, they immediately buckled, his knees crashing on the leaves underneath him. His once calm expression crumpled as his bottom lip trembled. Tears welled up in his pretty blue eyes as they ran down his cheeks uncontrollably.

“N-no…p-please…no…” he begged, his voice so hoarse.

It felt like someone ripping his heart out his chest as the quiet environment echoed with his sobs.

Please, someone wake me up from this horrible nightmare.

Until reality hit him that this was REAL. Tomioka, Y/N, the love of his life, his beloved, the mother of his daughter…

A demon.

The loud nasty snarls escaped your lips made him wince as you bolted to him, ready to attack.

I can’t do it, I-I can’t, he told himself.

Getting to his feet, he once again dodged your attacks with tears down his pale cheeks “Y/N! Snap out of it! P-please! You know who I am!” He cried out as he tried to regain you back, regain his wife.

Even though you should’ve been faster and stronger than him, despite his emotions, he easily blocked your sloppy movements coming to conclusion that you haven’t fed on anyone, yet. And you wouldn’t, especially if he had anything to do with it. Remembering him, he had to get you to remember, remember your life over your desire for human flesh and blood.

“I-it’s me! G-giyuu, your husban-nd!” Tossing the swords to the side, he wouldn’t attack you, he refused. He couldn’t hurt you. He sniffled, wiping his face as he side stepped to avoid you “r-remember the day we-e first kissed? It-t was under the fireworks-s, you were so beautiful-l in that orange k-kimono. I-it was fall,” he held back a sob as you growled like a beast in the shadows “come-e back to me Y/N, f-fight it!”

Fireworks? Kiss? You in an orange kimono? Oh when you felt those butterflies in your tummy? When you thought you were pass out from how overwhelming feeling of love and desire you felt for him? That day? You remember that day! You had just turned eighteen that fall.

Seeing your eyes widen and halt for a moment, he kept going even when you went for a hit “M-Mio! H-how hard you cried when you held her in you-ur arms, y-you said she was a-as beautiful a-as a cherry B-blossom even though she l-looks just like you…Y-you c-call her your precious c-cherry blossom.”

Mio. My precious cherry blossom. My blessing. My baby girl.

Tears built up in your eyes as frustration was new to you, so lost, so hungry. So thirsty. Just a taste…

No! I can’t, my Mio, my Giyuu I just want to hold and kiss my family. I want my life back. Fight it Y/N! You’re not hungry nor thirsty, you’re not hungry nor thirsty. You’re not a monster. Remember Nezuko, there’s hope, hope, you don’t have to be a killer. You’re not a killer. You can still be you, and still protect.

You’re not hungry nor thirsty.

Those sobs filled your eyes as you felt it tug in the pit of your stomach, make it stop. You’re not hungry or thirsty.

‘Ensure you feed. If you feed, it’ll make the pain stop.’ That unfamiliar voice repeated itself in your head, and just when you thought you had complete and utter control, you didn’t.

Your mouth was watering, you were hungry and thirsty.

Not expecting the quick snap, the hashira did his best to avoid, but not before you go scratched up Giyuu pretty good. Jumping back, he felt pain on the left side of his cheek and neck, blood trickling down slowly. Lifting his head up, his hair moved to the side exposing the damage you had done.

Mild cuts on his left cheek and neck…

The first time you saw Giyuu with scratches on his face…the two of you had been on your third mission together when he pushed you out of the way to take nails to his face from a demon. You…you had felt so guilty…because you weren’t…paying attention? Ah yes.

Second time was when he came home from a mission…he got marked up when a child was caught in the crossfire of an attack. He..didn’t go to see Shinobu…he came straight home, the incident scared him half to death, thinking of you and your unborn baby…

Except this time around, you were the cause of it.

You hurt him.

You. A demon. Hurt your husband.

Stopping in your tracks, your hands shook as your balled them in fists, digging your nails in your palms as your heavy breathing sounded almost like it hurt, it was ragged and shallow. Your eyes switched from hunger to full of fear as you’re backed away from your husband.

Flooding of all the good memories in your life flashed through your head; running away from an abusive family to join the corps, your friends, meeting Giyuu, falling in love, getting married, becoming an hashira, and having be blessed with the most beautiful baby girl.

Mio. Giyuu. They are you family Y/N REMEMBER THAT! Your everything!

Backing up into a tree, your hands shook as you blocked out that desire to feed “I-I-…” that burned sensation was fighting you, but you refused for it to win. No!

“You breathe life into my existence, making every moment worth living…” your eyes flickered over at the Water Hashira when your heart fluttered at those oddly familiar words. Meeting your sad gaze, his monotone explained “you’ve told..me that since we’ve met.”

Of course you did. He and Mio were your breathe of fresh air, the reason you chose to live in this fucked up world. Overwhelming pit of sadness returned, engulfing you as you broke down in tears, crying out in pain, crying out how sorry you were. How sorry you were for failing, for being weak.

||

😭 I hope you enjoyed! I really tried with this one, and very much enjoyed writing it! I promise they’ll will be more parts! SPECIAL SHOUT-OUT TO @unofficialmuilover FOR THE HELP AND BASICALLY HAND HOLDING ME THROUGH WRITING THIS 🫶🏼💙 LOVE YOU GUYS! 🫶🏼

Going to bed 🫶🏼 my stubborn ass wanted to finish this and I got muster in the morning 😭

[positivelybeastly]

Sometimes I feel like beast gets treated more harshly for some things than other characters are for almost identical actions. The time travel stuff especially, but the collective actions of the Illuminati as well

Heh. You know, it's funny, I was literally just grabbing a cap of some Stuart Immonen art from All-New X-Men #2, of a really pretty X-Jet, and, because I'm a glutton for punishment, I clicked the comments. Do you wanna read them? No? Too bad, I had to read them, so now, so do you.

"Hank is so self-absorbed it's incredible. No wonder the Watcher thinks he's garbage."

"Also, i think Beast should be lobotomized for his crimes against children and the space/time continuum."

"That said: f**k you, Hank. You are so weak and arrogant that you would risk destroying your oldest and dearest friends because you can't handle Scott helping mutants? You risk destroying the timeline and destroying your friends' relationships and their very minds and spirits."

Like . . . fuck, man.

It really is all just Bendis' fault. He made Hank do something so mind-numbingly stupid, and it was presented slap bang in people's faces, and LITERALLY NO-ONE stopped to question if it was even in-character for him to do this.

It wasn't, by the way.

Be warned, disturbingly hot, smart, and urbane Hank McCoy incoming.

OH HEY.

LOOK.

IT'S ALMOST LIKE HANK'S FUCKING SMART OR SOMETHING.

I JUST.

GET.

SO.

FUCKING.

ANGRY.

THE MAN IS FUCKING SMART. And then Bendis just has him do something so mind-numbingly stupid, and no-one even blinks an eye at whether or not it even made sense for him to do it.

And do you know what makes me fucking laugh? Is that other writers were actively mocking the plotlines as they were going on, but because so many comics readers are as dumb as fucking rocks, they didn't even realise.

Oh yeah, it IS almost as if people in the Marvel Universe regularly fuck the timestream without taking it for dinner or applying lube, I almost fucking forgot! But because Bendis decides that there are ramifications this time, suddenly Hank is the destroyer of all of space time.

Which of the three is it? Was this something that was always meant to happen, or not? If this is something that can happen when you meddle with space-time, why did Hank do it? Why? Is? Bendis-Hank? So? Fucking? DUMB???

And you know what, I need to bring this up, because LITERALLY FUCKING NO-ONE ELSE IN THE FANDOM EVER WILL

This was not a decision he made in his right mind? He was dying? His brain is seizing? He's having heart palpitations, in agonising pain, his mentor is dead and one of his oldest friends was the one who killed him, and he's in such a depressive spiral that he doesn't even want to tell the people around him that he's dying because he doesn't want to worry them.

But no, this is a decision that we're never, ever, ever going to let Hank live down. In fact, this decision is SO AWFUL THAT

Fucking blow me.

I know that I'm, like, seemingly the one X-Men fan that actually reads fucking comic books rather than going off panels I see posted on Twitter (this slight is aimed mostly at Reddit, not here, don't worry), but, like . . . god, I'm just so fucking furious that I had to sit, and watch a targeted character assassination, in real time, of my favourite character, and the fandom just fucking lapped it up.

Even now, the era from the end of Avengers vs. X-Men to Krakoa is called the Lost Era in mutant history. There are SO MANY THINGS that have been completely forgotten.

Hey, remember when Emma Frost did this?

Oh yeah, what consequences did she face for this?

Nothing?

The amount of shit that sticks to Hank makes me fucking sick. Everyone gets a pass for what they did, except for Hank.

The New Avengers/Illuminati stuff is the one that gets my goat, because do you know how Hank spent that time?

Buckle the fuck in.

Hank lacks the constitution for hard decisions.

Hank believes in the power of good men to change the world with ideals.

Hank will take the coward's way out, every time. The way that saves lives.

Hank will spend the time to talk, every time.

"We should help if we can. How could we not?"

Oh hey, Bruce Banner, I think everyone kinda forgot you were in this Illuminati too and you get a free pass!

Interesting.

Hmmmmm.

That last one REALLY makes me laugh because it really does just kinda read to me as Hickman pointing out that Hank's actions in All-New X-Men make no fucking sense.

And Hank has to just.

Sit there.

And take it.

And every.

Single.

Time.

Someone tries to put him back on the path to being who he is meant to be, some.

Fucking.

Jack-off.

Ruins it again.

Shit sticks to Hank like it doesn't stick to anyone else.

I'm fucking sick of it.

I ain't even touching the Percy stuff. That's just - phwaoooooah. Not to mention, I'm out of images.

Just sucks, man.

Just sucks.

[lets-try-some-writing]

Your CC Warfare fic legit had me stressing out so bad I thought I was feeling a genuinely new emotion, lol. That whole thing was like a really bad car crash: it's terrible what happened, but you can't look away. If Strongarm had just said nothing, she would've avoided putting her foot in her mouth and getting in trouble. With how tense everything was, I see no reason why she would jump in. I understand she was trying to help Sideswipe out of that situation, but she did it in like the complete opposite direction! She should've reared him in, not back him up. She said it herself that they were war veterans. Though, I suppose that's easier said. Strongarm may be intelligible of the war records and Autobot law, but truthfully, plain intelligence pales in the face of wisdom and actual experience. Intelligence says: this war could've easily been won because of xyz. Wisdom and experience say completely otherwise. And I guess that is one of the points Optimus is trying to make: that Strongarm and Sideswipe do not have the wisdom or experience to understand exactly why things played out the way they did. I have the feeling the two simply looked at the war records itself and not any history that came before, especially Optimus' involvement with Megatron's revolution. I don't know if that would make much of a difference for Sideswipe tbh but I think Strongarm would be able to see just a little why Optimus couldn't outright kill Megatron in the beginning like Sideswipe said he should've. Even so, going back to the records itself , it won't contain legitimately every single thing that happened. It probably only recorded decisive battles and notable events. Billions of people were involved, and with that many variables, it would be impossible to say that the war could've been won if only Optimus did something sooner. WHICH BY THE WAY MAKES THIS SO MUCH WORSE. Sideswipe (and by extension Strongarm) is basically saying that Optimus is personally responsible for dragging on an intergalactic war just because he didn't off one guy as if the most wicked bots in the face of existence werent out there making lives worse on purpose under the cover of the war and would help stretch it to continue their sick actions. As if there weren't a hundred other Megatrons ready to continue the war themselves the moment Megatron died. If I could write an essay on every reason why the war dragged on, I'll be writing until I die and never come close to finishing. Even within the small game Optimus planned there are obvious reasons why it wouldn't be a quick or easy victory if they even win: limited number of fighters (no guarantee they'd hit the max min bc rallying people to fight is difficult), no details until they got to Helex (you're not always going to know what your goal is when being sent out to fight), no resources from the state (war is expensive and getting funding is difficult). So imagine that plus way more reasons plus on a planetary scale. The scope is simply unfathomable. Anyways, I think this comment has gone on long enough lol. Excellent work as always and I'm excited but also incredibly nervous to see how this all plays out. Take care!

YOU ARE PICKING UP WHAT I AM LAYING DOWN!!!

This whole fic is one giant show. Optimus wants the idiots under Bee's control to LEARN. You've already picked up the logical reasoning behind the rules he's laid down so far. And let me tell you, its only going to get more complicated. War is a difficult and unpredictable thing. Optimus is going to make that as real as possible in this non-lethal scenario.

Is it overkill? Maybe. But if even those serving under Bumblebee don't have the barest inkling of the truth? It hints at a FAR larger problem. I am going to have so much fun writing this thing. I want to get a few chapters stockpiled and then I will post them on Ao3 and continue there :3

Thank you for enjoying my writing and giving this lovely analysis. This sort of things makes my dad and encourages me to write more.

[smol-grey-tea]

Title Change: Worth and Warmth -> Secret Ending Three

Secret Ending Three - Chapter 3: Pamper

Guys. I think I have a thing for this trope.

The trust. The vulnerability. The domesticity. The platonic, non-sexual nudity.

Why I love this trope so much, I DO not know.

It's still cold, even in the house. The whole place is full of the remainders of gift wrappings and ripped packaging. It's a huge mess, but it's fun to leave everything out and pretend Christmas never ended.

The world we've found ourselves in itself has traces of every single version of events. I'm glad every Christmas we had was a good one.

Today was hectic. I'm beginning to understand why it's called Boxing Day, what with how it feels like you've been thrown in the ring. We all stayed at the department store all day preparing for our future with the seven of us, buying clothes and groceries. Dinner was rushed but comforting and warm in this storm of emotions. I think we're all just about ready to head to bed immediately.

I can't help but yawn as I sit down to write in my diary again. It feels like only now I can finally take a breather and I just stare at the past pages, pen in hand.

The words are smudged. Not because of being tampered with, but because each past diary entry had been written all on top of each other in a way that's beyond comprehension. I think I should invest in better quality pens anyway though.

He opens my door without knocking and just stands in the doorway, looking at me. I can already see the beginnings of faint dark circles forming under his eye.

"Ready for bed? You look tired."

"I do..? If you say so," he said, perching on the corner of the bed. After getting home, one of the topics brought up at dinner were our sleeping arrangements. We decided on going with the same arrangements we'd had at the beginning, while he can sleep with me in my bed.

"I've never slept before."

"Really?" I turned around and put my pen down at his comment. "I thought you'd been human for a while already."

"Yeah, but the Abandoned Toys Room isn't like the normal world. We all appear human there, but time flows differently and we don't need to eat or sleep."

"This must all be so new for you then."

"Tell me about it."

I followed his eyes as he looked down and fidgeted with his left sleeve. I didn't notice until now how his fingernails had such dirt underneath them and were incredibly jagged and cracked.

I took this moment to study the rest of his body as well. He was wearing the clothes I originally found him in: his ripped white shirt with the dark purple trousers and accessories. His hair was dry and tangled in places and his bare feet were near black with dirt. How could I have left him in such a state for so long?

"Are you really okay like this??"

"Like what?"

"Like...like this! I can't believe I was so reckless with you when I was little. You don't even have both eyes anymore, you're so dirty!"

"Well, it's not really fun, no. But I've lived like this for a long time now, I'm used to it."

"No, this isn't right. No matter how much you're used to it."

"Hm?"

I leapt up from my seat and took his hands in mine, determined.

"I'm no longer the kind of person who will leave you to rot. I promise you, for real this time, I'm gonna fix my mistakes. Let's start with fixing you."

"Just what do you mean by that??"

"I'm saying, why don't I give you a pamper day? You probably don't know how to care for yourself, right? Since you're so new to being human?"

"Oh..."

"So I'll take care of you! Does that sound good?"

"I hated being thrown in the washing machine..."

"No, don't worry. Human hygiene is nothing like that! It's actually kind of relaxing, I promise."

"Ah, I see..."

"So what do you think? Shall I help you get clean and ready for bed?"

"Well... Alright. Maybe it'll be good to get a good dusting for once."

"Yay! Let's go! I promise I'll do my best to help!"

"First of all, let's brush your teeth." She says this with her back turned to me, as she's leaned over the bath, running the water. The sound of the rushing tap is loud and the smell of the bubble bath concoction she's generously pouring in has already filled the room.

I find a spare toothbrush in the cabinet next to the sink and make my attempt at squeezing the paste onto the bristles. Despite the limited dexterity in my left arm, I manage to empty a sufficient enough amount. It should be the size of a pea, right?

"Woah, you did well with the toothpaste. You could've let me do it for you, you know?"

"It's easy enough. But how am I supposed to use this in my mouth?"

"It's alright, it's easier than it looks. You have to open your mouth and brush each tooth, not too rough."

Cautiously, I sniffed the wooden stick before biting into it gently. The paste's minty flavour was strong, and I wrinkled my nose at it initially, but soon warmed up to its biting cold. I enjoyed placidly chewing on it a lot more than I thought I would.

"I don't know if that's how you're supposed to do it, but if you're happy like that, it's fine. It is your first time after all... How about you try smiling and I can brush the front teeth for you to show you how I do it?"

"Hmm..." I furrowed my brows at her before remembering her promise not to treat me like she used to, then gave a hesitant nod.

"Okay. Here." She held her hand out to me and I placed the brush in her palm. "Now say cheese!" she beamed. I bared my teeth in response, not as a simple following of instructions, but as a reflection of her own contagious smile.

The way she held the brush looked like an inconvenience to her, what with the awkward angle she'd have to approach brushing someone else's teeth from. However, although it felt as if she too were new to this activity from her shakiness, the sensation wasn't invasive too much, and it was more of a pain to stand so still than to feel the back-and-forth of the brush.

I forgot all about the unpleasantness of the paste's vibrancy when watching her face as she worked. Her lips pressed together in a tight line. Her brow creased, as mine did before, now in concentration. Her yellow eyes were trained on me, and I silently counted the number of times she blinked, noting the immensity of her pupils and the intricacies of her irises.

"That's basically how it's done. Do you think you can take it from there? Just try and do what I did but along the tops and bottoms of your teeth too, and where I couldn't reach. Oh, and you can spit out the paste if it gets annoying."

I silently asked for the toothbrush back, holding out my own hand. After spitting some of the annoyance into the sink, I stuck the brush back in, ready to make a better attempt. As she said, it wasn't nearly as difficult as it seemed, just a bit tedious. Although, her demonstration made it much easier to understand. Soon, I felt much more refreshed and clean, and washed the rest of the mixture out, satisfied.

"How did you find that?"

"Not bad. A bit gross."

"Then that sounds good enough. Are you ready for the bath? The water seems like a good temperature now."

"Hmmm. Why not?" Can't be half as bad as last time, right?

I dipped a finger in the water, crouched down on the floor after removing all my clothes. It felt strange to be without them. Sitting in a tub of warm water might feel stranger though. Gingerly, I stepped in and acclimated to the steaming heat. It felt nice to sit, surrounded by mounds of bubbles.

"Are you in yet?"

"I'm up to my ears in bubbles, you can look now."

"Okay... Oh my god." Her face lit up in surprise as she laid eyes on me. "You look so cute like that! Like you're hiding in the bubbles! So cute!"

"Heh... It does feel nice."

"Right? And check this out too!" She produced from the cabinet a small pink ball. "It's a bath bomb. I haven't used one of these in a while, since I tend to shower more than bathe, but I thought it might be fun for you to use!"

"What does it do?"

"Umm, it's easier to show than explain. It kinda just fizzes and makes really pretty colours in the water. I've also got a couple rubber duckies to help you relax too." I do like ducks.

The bath bomb fizzled almost immediately as it landed in the water. It sank straight to the bottom and I watched the pink fizz reach the surface enthusiastically, before it began to spread across the expanse of the bath.

The fizz mingled with the bubbles, tinging them pink and the rubber duck bobbed along, looking startled.

"Alright! Then if you're comfortable in there, shall we begin?" she asked, rolling her sleeves back for the tenth time. I nodded in response, more occupied by swishing the water around me and popping bubbles.

"Okay then! First of all, let's make sure you're all properly wet. I'm gonna fill this jug with water and pour it over your hair, okay? I'll use my other hand to shield your face though. Ready?"

"Ready."

"Okay. Remember to hold your breath."

I squeezed the rubber duck while I held my breath as the warm water hugged my hair and trickled down my face. It felt strange and I couldn't help but giggle at the sensation, which then accidentally allowed some of the water into my mouth. That part didn't taste or feel good.

She lightly dabbed my face with a towel in apology before picking up a bottle of something. When she opened the lid, it smelled floral.

"Next, let's do the shampoo." She squirted some of the floral stuff into her hand with a squelch and began to massage it into my scalp. Her hands were small and soft, working up a lather with care.

When she said she was going to pamper me, I hadn't expected for it to really feel like it. She rinsed out the shampoo after ensuring that my hair was thoroughly frothy, then did the same with the conditioner. She also kneaded some body wash into my skin in slow and soft circular motions.

While playing with the mountainous bubbles, I piled a fistful on top of my hair like a wig, when I noticed that I couldn't find a single knot or tangle. It felt refreshing to be able to card my fingers through my hair without issue, as soft and light and breathable as stuffing. My hands too were free of dust or grime, now along with my feet, wriggling at the other end of the bath with Sir Ducky. Perhaps this human hygiene thing looked not to be such a bad idea afterall.

"Okay, we're all done. Are you ready to get out now?"

"Aww, do I have to?"

"Oh, are you enjoying it then? I'm glad! But the water's dirty now, so it would be best to get out. Don't worry though, we can definitely do this again another time!"

"Aww... Okay then."

Fascinated, I watched the water all swirl into a mini whirlpool down the drain, leaving only a residue of pink bubbles and a lonely rubber duck. Meanwhile, I was cloaked in a fluffy purple bathrobe and she rubbed my hair through thoroughly with a separate towel.

Back in the bedroom, I sat on her desk chair while she sat on the corner of the bed as she brushed and blow dried my hair. The sound of the hairdryer was powerful but the heat was alright. I could already feel how quickly I was becoming dry.

"Hmm, let's see... Next, how about we take care of those nails?"

"My nails?"

"Yeah, they're a bit too long, aren't they? If they get too long, you might end up scratching yourself or they might break on their own."

"Oh..." Running my fingers over the sharpness of my nails didn't exactly feel good, in truth.

"It's okay though, all we have to do is file them down. They will grow back, so we don't have to worry."

"Oh, okay." Human bodies sure are strange.

She leaned over towards me, holding a sandpaper stick over a bin, with my hand gently cradled in hers again. Awkwardly but kindly, the stick made back and forth motions on each nail, slowly sanding each down to a smooth, round shape. It was slightly painful and filled the place with dust, but I enjoyed how my human fingers now resembled my old paws with their softer edges.

"How's that? I tried to get it as neat as I could."

"It's per..." I tried to speak but was interrupted by my own yawn. "... Perfect."

"Are you getting sleepier? That's cute. Why don't you get changed into your new pyjamas then and let's get into bed?"

She wiped off the dust from my fingers before I got changed into my starry pyjamas. They were a bit bigger than I expected but I do prefer long sleeves anyway, so I don't mind it that much.

"Oh, one more thing." I'd gotten under the covers and I was about to lay down when she stopped me. "Give me your hands again."

I hesitated for not even a second before obeying, and she happily massaged into my hands another cream that she meticulously rubbed into the skin of each finger, along each knuckle and into my palms. I took my hands back when she was satisfied and lifted them up to my nose. It smelled like watermelon.

Once she'd also gotten changed, we huddled together under the covers, entangled in each other's limbs.

"Oh, but-" I winced.

"What's up? Is it too close?"

"No, it's not that. It's just...my arm."

"Oh! Sorry! Let's swap sides."

I wriggled my bad arm out from underneath her and she crawled over me to the opposite side of the bed. We resumed our position again, without as much pins and needles, now comfortable.

"How do you feel now?"

"Happy." I couldn't help but beam. I hope I can properly convey how I feel. I'm not used to expressing happy emotions.

"Hehe, I did mean about the bath and everything, but it does make me happy to hear that."

"Oh, I feel very soft, yes. That too."

"Okay, that's good. And it didn't feel too difficult for you to do yourself next time, right? I'll still help you if you're getting used to it, but how do you feel about doing it yourself?"

"Hmm, I think it should be okay. It might be difficult, but I think I can do it. Do humans have to do this every day?"

"Not everyday. Well, I think Yuri does. But people usually shower more often than bathe since it's quicker. It's just easier to bathe you while you're sitting in a bath though. Eventually, I'll teach you to use the shower too, if you'd like."

"I'd like that..."

"Me too."

I burrowed deeper under the duvet and buried my head into the crook of her neck. In response, she rested her hand upon my head, gently playing with my soft hair.

I've missed this. So much.

I sighed happily, "Goodnight, owner."

I felt her smile above me. "Goodnight."

Didn't realise til now how much I loved the trope of someone who takes care of someone, who then repays them by taking care of them. ^^^^^^ Nameless watched over her when she was a child. But while she grew up, he stayed the same, and now is a child compared to her. Now she looks after himmmmmm 😭😭😭😭😭😭

[enchanted-encanto]

La Canción de mi Corazón / The Song of My Heart—Chapter 60: The Song of Their Hearts

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Read this story on AO3 here!

Fandom: Encanto (2021)

Overall Fic Rating: Explicit (for smut)

Relationships: Bruno Madrigal/Natalia Moreno (Original Female Character)

Characters: Bruno Madrigal Natalia Moreno, Original Characters, Félix Madrigal, Agustín Madrigal, Luisa Madrigal, Mirabel Madrigal, Camilo Madrigal, Antonio Madrigal, Dolores Madrigal, Isabela Madrigal, Pepa Madrigal, Julieta Madrigal, "Abuela" Alma Madrigal

Chapter Summary: Bruno, Natalia, and all of the Madrigals revel in the joy of family, gratitude, healing, and above all things–love.

Chapter Notes:

I can't believe I'm actually writing this, that La Canción de Mi Corazón / The Song of My Heart is actually finished. This story and its readers mean the whole world to me, the process of writing this story has brought me an indescribable amount of joy and fulfillment that I will always be grateful for.

To all of the readers of this story–thank you. I can never properly express my gratitude for all of your kind words and support. Your kudos, comments, Tumblr posts, fan art, they have all meant the world to me. This was a passion project I started because I fell in love with the Encanto universe and to think my little story has grown so much and reached so many people is so wild and incredible to me.

I very much plan to keep Bruno & Natalia's story going in different ways moving forward now that the main story is completed–I can definitely see myself writing bonus slice of life chapters about them in the future and sharing artwork I commission of the characters from this story. If you'd like to keep in touch with me you can keep up with me on this Tumblr!

So again, thank you so so much. I truly hope you all have enjoyed reading this story even a tiny bit as much as I enjoyed writing it. Sending lots of love to you all, always. ❤️

______________________________

Bruno opened his eyes slowly, blinking a few times to bring his vision into focus. His heart fluttered when he saw Natalia standing in front of her vanity a few feet away from him, putting the finishing touches on her ponytail. He was instantly mesmerized by her as always–taking in the way her shoulder blades moved, the way her nose scrunched up when she concentrated, the tiny piece of her hair that always fell into her face no matter how many times she tucked it behind her ear.  

 After a moment, Natalia noticed that Bruno had woken up and looked over at him with a sleepy smile. She walked up to hi bedside him and gave him a soft, sweet kiss on the forehead.  

 “Good morning. I love you.” She whispered.  

 “I love you. Have a great day.” Bruno replied, a soft smile on his face. 

A few minutes after Natalia exited the room Bruno sat up on the edge of the bed and stretched his arms out, letting out a big yawn. 

He got dressed and opened the door to leave the bedroom. He took in the familiar sights and sounds of the casita that appeared before him, the magical chaos that he loved so dearly. He heard Camilo strumming on his guitar downstairs, practicing for an upcoming gig later that week. The booming sound of Felix’s laugh made Bruno smile uncontrollably. He couldn’t see either of them from where he was standing, but the joyful flow of Pepa’s sunshine poured out from the entrance to the kitchen below. 

Before he could take another step he heard a whoosh , and looked over to see his oldest daughter floating beside him. 

“Good morning Daddy!” Emilia exclaimed, kissing him on the cheek before quickly flying away. He chuckled, knowing any attempts to slow her down would be fruitless. 

“ Good morning tío!” Mirabel said from the end of the hallway with a small wave. “Remember you need to stop by the bakery today to pick up the cupcakes for tomorrow!” 

“No lo olvidaré, lo prometo!” Bruno said, smiling up at her as he headed down the stairs. 

“Yow!” He heard a voice cry out in pain. He knew right away that it had to be Agustín. He stifled a laugh as he entered the living room, to find a grinning Julieta looking over at her grimacing husband. 

“Caught your finger in the drawer again hermano ?” Bruno teased. 

“Only for the third time.” Julieta replied with a crooked smile. “Today.” 

“It’s been a really good day for me so far actually!” Agustín laughed. 

“Breakfast is on the stove, Bruno.” Julieta continued. “ Huevos con chorizo.”  

“Gracias Juli.” Bruno replied gratefully. “Need me to grab some for him to heal his hand?” 

Julieta shook her head, smiling knowingly as she pulled a cracker out of her pocket. “Got it covered.” 

“That is not how I said it!!” Bruno heard a loud voice say. As he entered into the kitchen he saw two of his nieces “arguing”, while also attempting to stifle their laughter. 

“That’s exactly how you said it Luisa.” Isabela teased, pointing her fork at her sister. “You went, ‘I don’t wanna try on another skirt!!!’, like you were a little bebito throwing a tantrum.” 

“It was the fifth skirt I’d tried on that day!!” Luisa retorted.  

“All in the name of fashion, my dear little sister.” Isabela said smoothly. 

Luisa rolled her eyes, putting another bite of food into her mouth.  

“I’ll remember that next time you ask me to move all your inventory boxes around again.” She said in between bites. 

“Ugh, fine. You got me there.” Isabela laughed, making Luisa laugh along with her. 

“Fighting so early this morning sobrinas?” Bruno teased as he made his plate and sat down beside them. “I figured you two wouldn’t start until at least noon.” 

“We’re not fighting tío, we’re having a...civil disagreement on past events.” Isabela said with a sassy grin. 

“Your ‘civil disagreements’ are way too loud.” Dolores chimed in using air quotes, tiredly walking into the room. “I could use a little more civil agreeing this early in the morning.” 

“It is 11 am, Dolores.” Luisa laughed. “Some of us have had full days already!” 

“And some of us enjoy spending our days sleeping. In the quiet.” Dolores joked back. 

“You wanting any quiet in this place isn’t likely to happen, mijita!” Felix said as he walked into the room, kissing his daughter on the side of her head as he passed. 

“Speaking of things not being quiet, where are my kids?” Bruno joked. “I saw Emi a few minutes ago.” 

“Leo’s out in the backyard playing basketball with Antonio.” Isabela answered. “Not sure where Luna is.” 

“If I had to guess, she’s asleep somewhere.” Bruno said. “She thinks we don’t know she stays up late working on her inventions but she’s always zonking out around this time at some random location in the house.” 

“In all fairness, that kitchen tool she invented for Mom was pretty cool.” Luisa shrugged. 

“Cool indeed, but we’re trying to teach her that she can invent during the daylight hours too.” Bruno chuckled. 

“She’s a noctámbulo like her dad!” Felix exclaimed. 

“Agh yeah, that one’s definitely on me.” Bruno replied, a bit sheepishly. 

The kitchen grew louder and more lively as more and more Madrigals came in and out for their breakfasts. Bruno reveled in the feeling of it all, his family surrounding him in his lifelong home. He missed Natalia during these weekday mornings, but took joy in the fact that she was at the bakery doing what she loved.  

He headed out to the backyard to check on Leo, and no sooner did he step out onto the back patio was a basketball being thrown directly at him.  

“Think fast tío!” Antonio yelled, Bruno barely catching the ball in time before it hit him square in the face. 

“Nice catch Dad!” Leo called out. 

“Thanks.” Bruno chuckled, tossing the ball to his son. Leo and Antonio immediately went back to their game, but the youngest Madrigal boy was no match for his older cousin. Antonio had a growth spurt in his teens and became the tallest member of the Madrigal family seemingly overnight. But despite how much he’d grown physically, he was still the sweet, caring, animal-loving Antonio they’d always known. Antonio and Leo were very close, bonding quickly over their shared love of aquatic animals. They spent a lot of time swimming in the magical pool in Leo’s bedroom, chatting about every type of shark, squid, and anemone a person could dream of. 

Bruno felt a wave of nostalgia as he looked at how much his son had grown in just a few short years too, a quiet content filling his heart as he watched his son and nephew run around and enjoy a beautiful day.  

“Have you seen your sister?” Bruno called out to Leo. 

“Which one?” Leo replied, out of breath as he dribbled the basketball. 

“Ha, sorry! Lulu.” 

“Nope, sorry Dad!” 

“Haven’t seen her either, sorry tío. ” Antonio added as he snatched the ball as it bounced. 

“Oh well, my search continues.” Bruno shrugged. “Have fun you two!” 

He went back inside to go search for his youngest daughter, and after some time not being able to locate her, he had a sudden thought and smiled to himself. He realized exactly where she was. 

He approached the painting that covered the hole in the wall he had used for so many years when he hid away within the casita . It was never covered up or fixed, as the family felt it represented the growth they all had gone through and wanted to leave it as is. Bruno wasn’t surprised in the slightest when he learned that Luna had found the secret space, as she was inquisitive to her core. When she asked him about it after discovering it, he had been open with her about what the space used to be for and the life he used to live in it. Everything he said was explained to her in a way that would make the most sense to a young child. However, despite her age, Luna was pensive and understanding about her father’s story, finding the space to be fascinating rather than sad. She loved to sneak away to the tiny room now and then, using it as another quiet place to think and explore. She wasn’t unlike her father in enjoying some quiet time to herself within the lively casita . 

Bruno pushed aside the slightly crooked painting and stepped inside the hole in the wall, feeling an odd sensation in his stomach. He was struck by what this motion used to mean for him compared to what it meant now. Before, it was a part of his darkest years, an entrance to the place he chose to hide, to cower. He watched his family helplessly through these same walls, his heart aching to be with them. It was a place where his deepest pain and darkest memories took root. But now, that heaviness had nearly entirely faded away. A part of it would always remain within him in some capacity, but the years had provided him, and all of the Madrigals, a remarkable amount of growth and healing. Now, he was entering that space to retrieve his daughter, a piece of his heart that he and the love of his life made together.  

His suspicions were immediately confirmed as he approached a fast asleep Luna on a rug on the floor, a green crayon still curled up in her hand. Surrounding her were blueprint like drawings, etchings from her mind spilled onto the many pages. He scooped her up and she instinctively cuddled into his shoulder. He patted her back gently as he looked around his former home within a home. How dull the pain of those memories felt now, how many changes this space had gone through in his heart, it was an overwhelming experience in its underwhelmingness. He listened to the soft snores of his daughter on his shoulder and marveled in how far life had taken him since those dark years so long ago. 

____________________

Later that afternoon, Bruno walked over to the bakery to visit Natalia and pick up the order Mirabel had placed for an upcoming family party. This walk between the casita and Moreno’s Bakery had become second nature for him and all of the Madrigals, both places feeling like home to the family. It was a picture perfect sunny day, a gentle breeze softly rustling Bruno’s ruana. He took a deep breath, savoring the sunshine on his face and the chatter of the townspeople surrounding him. 

When he approached the bakery, the familiar chime of the bell above the door got his heart racing as it always did, because it meant he’d get to see Natalia in a moment. When he entered, Natalia was busy with a customer putting a few treats in a paper bag. Natalia glanced over at Bruno, her smile and the sparkle in her eyes immediately making his knees feel weak.  

“Oh! Hola Bruno!” The customer said pleasantly as she turned around to leave. 

“Hola Señora Lopez!” Bruno replied, holding the door open for the woman. “Grandkids doing well?” 

“Están bien, gracias.” She replied sweetly. “Nati was just telling me all about your little ones!” She continued, pinching his cheek. “You’re a lucky man to have such a beautiful wife and family.” 

Bruno beamed proudly. “I sure am.” 

“Hasta luego Bruno, bye Nati!” Señora Lopez said as she exited, Natalia waving goodbye. 

Natalia made eye contact with Bruno, her expression quickly growing sultry. 

“Well hello , señor.” Natalia said in a low voice, sparks instantly flying between them. 

Bruno’s cheeks flushed at her tone, but he wouldn’t let her get the best of him just yet. He approached the part of the counter where the cash register was, the only spot on that side where they could easily lean in close to one another.  

“Hello to you, señora.” He replied, matching her tone.

“How lucky I am that such a sexy man decided to walk into my bakery today.” Natalia hummed with a flirtatious grin. 

Bruno leaned in closer to Natalia’s face over the counter, gently taking her chin in his hand.  

“I’m the lucky one today, mi bella.” He said softly out before kissing her deeply. She deepened their kiss, pulling on his shirt collar to bring him even closer. 

When they pulled apart, Natalia’s breathing had quickened.

“Oh no, you don’t get to kiss me like that just once.” She stated. 

Bruno grinned mischievously, nearly sprinting around the counter to approach her. Natalia took him by the hand and pulled him over to the small room around the corner that housed the ovens. He quickly pressed her up against the wall and their lips met again, fiery and passionate. He moved his hands under her shirt and up along her waist, a delicious sigh escaping her lips. Natalia ran her hand through Bruno’s hair as they devoured each other, the spring of his curls soft along her fingertips. Just as things began to heat up even further, the sound of the bakery’s front doorbell jingled. They pulled their lips apart from one another and started to laugh. 

Natalia pulled her top down and smoothed it out. “Well, duty calls.”

She kissed the tip of his nose, a flirty grin on her face. “Until next time, mi amor .”  

She walked out of the room to assist the customer, Bruno staying behind to collect himself. These stolen moments of passion that they always found time to share meant everything to both of them, the flame of their love for each other only growing as the years passed. Their love had become deeper and more complex, their relationship as friends, lovers, and partners strengthening as time went by. The years had brought them every emotion imaginable–joy, pain, loss, hardship, laughter, and everything in between. Throughout everything, they knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that they were meant to be together in every sense of the word. 

____________________

Later that evening, the entire Madrigal family was gathered around in the casita’s living room. A record player gently played an album that the entire family loved. Camilo stood in the center of the room, putting on a show as he danced with Dolores and made their parents beam with joy. The casita moved with him, flipping around the floorboards and windowpanes along with the rhythm. Antonio sat on the floor beside them, his long legs stretched out in front of him and a jaguar cub asleep and purring away in his lap. Isabela and Mirabel flipped through books of Mirabel’s photography together, Isabela finding endless creative inspiration in Mirabel’s work. Luisa was cuddled up between her parents, chit-chatting about their days. Alma sat in her favorite chair in the corner where she could see everyone, smiling lovingly as she watched her family gathered around her.  

Bruno was on the couch with Natalia beside him. Natalia had Emilia on one side of her, Leo on the other side, and Luna sitting on her lap. Natalia was singing to them softly, her voice gentle and sweet. The kids had dozed off a few minutes prior, so comfy and cozy at home amongst their loved ones that they could hardly keep their eyes open. Bruno looked at the room around him, taking in the experience. He watched his family all together, as close as ever before. Beside him, the love of his life singing with the beautiful voice he’d fell in love with immediately upon meeting her, and his children peacefully napping away in her arms.

Everything in his life had led up to a moment like this, a feeling of bliss and contentment washing over him like never before. He thought about how far he’d come from all those years ago when he first heard Natalia singing at a restaurant he likely never would have visited without a little encouragement from the people who loved him. This moment filled his soul with a song more beautiful than he could have ever dreamt of. One of gratitude, one of joy, one of love.

Looking over at Natalia, their children, their family–they truly made up every single note of the song of his heart. 

____________________

End Notes:

Spanish translations for Chapter 60:

-Casita: house -Tío: uncle -Yo recuerdo-I remember -No lo olvidaré, lo prometo: I won't forget, I promise -Hermano: brother -Huevos con chirozo: eggs with chorizo -Gracias: thank you -Bebito: baby -Sobrinas: nieces -Mijita: affectionate term for "my daughter" -Noctámbulo: night owl -Ruana: poncho -Están bien: they are good/they are doing well -Señor/Señora: Mr./Mrs. -Hola: hello -MI bella: my beauty -Amor/mi amor: love/my love

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[your-turn-to-role]

alright, now it has!

and to open completely out of left field, this is the bastard

like, here's that brief exchange with vex:

"I'm trying not to question it, but I feel…. good. Without revenge weighing me down. I spent so much time chasing destruction, I'd almost forgotten what possibility felt like." "Oh? And what's in your future if we survive this?" "Whitestone. See if I can't build a home again."

and now i wanna compare that with the percy of campaign one around this time period, chiefly, his goodbye note. (read by vax, hence the occasional comments, if people haven't seen or don't remember)

these are not the same percy. hell, c1 percy didn't really even consider trying to build his life back up until the very end of the story. the percy we got during the ripley arc (ep 57-69) is one who is terrified what ripley will do with the time and inventions he gave her. one who asked the raven queen if there was any hope of fixing his life and she told him he'd always been broken. and one who had decided to make peace with the fact that the best thing he could do with the rest of his life was go down fighting all his mistakes

he never imagined building a home again because he couldn't imagine a world where he deserved one (or even really a world where he'd live to see his new goals achieved)

and that bleeds into his entire approach with ripley, because she is and always has been his primary character foil

c1 percy's forgiveness is self-focused. it's not even really about ripley, because he knows she's like him, she can't be redeemed, just stopped. he forgives her because of the person he wants to be - no longer the one who would allow countless innocents to be hurt in the name of vengeance, he is only trying to kill ripley to stop her from killing others

he said in the briarwood arc that his quest wasn't a noble one, that even if the briarwoods were helping people he would kill them anyway because he wanted revenge. here he does the opposite - if ripley was helping the world he'd let her go. regardless of what she did to him, the safety of the world is his new priority, above all. and left alone she will mass produce his weapons and kickstart a whole new age of warfare. i cannot let you leave.

(and the fight itself kinda feeds into that worldview, like it's one of the most brutal and harrowing fights vox machina ever faced - this wasn't a solo fight it was all of vm vs ripley and some hired mercenaries, and they barely made it out alive. they were all casting healing spells or taking healing potions every single turn and it still wasn't enough. they pulled out everything they had to keep percy from dying against ripley's onslaught, pike had even previously gifted percy a necklace that would bring him back the next time he died, and ripley managed to burn through that and kill him again two rounds later!)

(which is exactly what percy expected out of this path he'd chosen, he knew it wasn't going to be easy and he knew it was going to kill him, but he'd die knowing he did everything he could)

the tlovm fight is much kinder to him. he's not up against an impossible task anymore, and he has a lot of opportunities in this fight to use what he's good at to gain the upper hand. and he takes them! even up against ripley and her guards alone, he wins pretty easily

but then comes the problem of what to do with ripley. because if this percy has hope for the future, and they are the same, he's always known that, then he has to have hope for her too. and i've speculated in the past that ripley didn't actually want percy dead, that was all orthax, a theory that has now been made incredibly canon by s3, and percy knows it!

if ripley can shake off the influence of orthax here, then he's in no danger. and he managed it! with the help of friends, yes, but maybe that's the only problem, maybe ripley just needs someone to be on her side. and if he's committing to forgiveness, if he has truly decided to shed all the hate and hurt and anger, then the right move for the world, is to be that person on her side. he has to at least try.

and what he doesn't expect is for her to not be so like him after all

also it hasn't cooked into an actual meta yet but I Am Thinking about the differences between tlovm percy genuinely trying to reach out after a fight that he won, and ripley tricking him, vs percy in a losing fight using his last turn of combat to look her in the eye and say "no matter what today, i forgive you. but i cannot let you leave."