#she’s been feeling under the weather recently but oh boy

[seabeck]

No shame

[helpimhyperfixating]

Wedding - Jotaro x Reader

This was a commission requested by @worldsetfree !

Thank you so so much, love, for your patience with me and for commissioning me in the first place ^^ I had a lot of fun with this!

CW: none

This is a post p6, happy ending au. Because dadtaro yes :3

Word Count: 3855

“What’s going on, love?” You ask softly as you reach up, straightening Jotaro’s tie. He’d just earlier come home from a long day at the office, writing on his newest research paper. Right now though, he was fresh out of the shower and getting dressed in fancy wear.

“I have a gut feeling.” The man mumbled, looking down at you. His hair was still a little damp, one stubborn curl draped across his brow while his hat was laying to the side on the dresser – the usual purple one replaced with a black one to match his suit, decorated with silver emblems for some more subtlety.

“About what? Jolyne asked us out to dinner. You were saying recently how you barely see her anymore, I thought you’d like this?” You questioned and Jotaro sighed softly, taking your hands away from his tie as he instead brought them down, squeezing a little as he instead looked over your head, seemingly trying to find the right words.

“It feels too sudden. Forced.”

Smiling a little sympathetically, you turned your hand around in his hold, squeezing his hand back to get his attention back on you. “Jolyne asked us to come. So we come. It’s dinner with her and some of her friends. Don’t you think that after everything she’s been through, she deserves a night out to a fancy place?”

“She does, but-“

“-No buts.” You interrupted him, making him frown a bit. “Jotaro, it’ll be fine. If anything, having us two there puts her in a safer position than when she’s alone.”

“Good grief, you’re insistent.” He sighed, though you saw the small quirk of his lip and smiled back.

“Good. That’s what you have me for. Now come on, let’s blow-dry your hair and go. We don’t want to be late.”

“Fine. So long as Anasui isn’t there.”

- - - -

Sitting at the restaurant, Jotaro had his arms firmly crossed over his chest, his hat casting his eyes into shadows as he scowled, almost brooding as he sat next to Anasui.

The pink-haired man – to his credit – kept his composure, holding a face of indifference as best as he could as he looked anywhere but the annoyed man right beside him at the table.

Sitting next to your husband, you couldn’t help but struggle to keep your smile down.

Jotaro looked downright pissy.

Sitting at the table, Jolyne sat to your left at the head, Ermes next to her (and opposite to you) and followed by Emporio and Foo Fighters, with Weather Report finishing up the crew, sitting at the head of the table opposite of Jolyne.

It was a positively merry band.

A little while ago, the drinks and entrees had been ordered, Jotaro already halfway through his beer.

“Dad, how’s the paper going?”

Pulled out of his brooding, Jotaro lifted his head, glancing to his daughter. “It’s going well.” He responded and you smiled to yourself, seeing the man’s sour expression soften the moment he laid his eyes on the green-haired girl. Or- woman, now. She wasn’t your little girl anymore. A thought that stung, though you kept it to yourself.

“What was it about again?”

“Blue whale migratory patterns.” Jotaro cleared his throat, always a little embarrassed to speak about his work.

“Oh, I hear they’re rare to be sighted!” Emporio spoke up, ever curious.

Jotaro nodded, crossing his ankles under the table. “Indeed, due to whaling in the last century their numbers drastically decreased. It’s been banned since 1966 but they’re still an endangered species.”

“So how’d you find them?” The now thirteen year old boy asked.

Jotaro’s lip quirked up before he answered while angling his hat’s brim down. “By knowing where to look.”

You knew your husband had a soft spot for the kid. In fact, the two of you had offered to take him in, but Jolyne had declined, saying she and Ermes could do that since they lived together. And neither of you protested, given Emporio and Jolyne in particular had a bond that could not be shattered.

“How’s the job, Jolyne?” You asked instead, lifting your glass to take a sip of your drink.

At that, Jolyne smiled. “It’s going well! I got some designs approved finally and have started making them.”

“You should see some of them, they’re incredible!” Ermes butted in, placing her hand on Jolyne’s thigh, making the girl blush as she glanced off to the side – a trait she got from you.

To his right, Jotaro saw Anasui glare daggers at Ermes, making the raven shift forward in his seat, blocking Anasui’s stare with his frame while giving a scrutinizing look of his own to the man in pink.

Seeing it, Anasui swallowed bitterly, crossing his arms and just letting it go. He knew he couldn’t beat Jotaro, no matter what happened.

“Oh! Do you have some pictures, Jolyne?!” Foo Fighters piped up excitedly, leaning on the table with both her forearms.

At that, both Jolyne and Ermes shared a look. Tilting your head in intrigue, you studied the two young women. There was excitement in their eyes, as well as slight nervousness in Jolyne.

“Sure.” Jolyne then hummed to her friend, nudging Ermes, who picked her bag up off of the floor, digging through until she pulled out a camera.

Before she could show anything however, waiters came up with the entrees, putting them down one by one in front of the right people.

Again, you saw the two women to your left touch, their hands intertwining under the table.

Perceptive as ever, Jotaro noticed too – the two of you sharing an inquisitive glance. There was something going on with them.

“So, show me what you’ve been up to, miss fashion designer.” You smiled, reaching over and gently squeezing Jolyne’s elbow.

“Okay, mom.” The girl smiled, taking the camera from Ermes, turning it on and flicking through a few pictures before handing it over to you.

Taking it happily, you shifted a little closer to Jotaro, pushing the camera’s strap to the side as you saw a picture of a slim fitting coral patterned dress sit on a mannequin. Jotaro leaned into your space, the two of you looking over at the small screen together, as you tilted it so that he could view it as well. “Oh wow, that looks so detailed!” You complimented.

“There’s some more pictures if you press the arrows right.” Jolyne instructed and you followed her word, moving your thumb to click the arrow.

The screen shifted to a new picture and your eyes widened as you felt Jotaro grip your hip tight, his breath faltering a bit.

Right there on the screen was a photo of Jolyne and Ermes on the beach, Ermes down on one knee, a small but ever so prominent box in her hands.

Snapping your head up to your daughter, you saw her with a wide grin on her face, her eyes a little misty as she lifted her hand, showing a beautiful yet simple ring sitting on her ring finger.

“You’re engaged?” You asked, in disbelief though quickly, a warmth filled your heart as you saw both women nod.

“No way!” Foo yelled out, almost throwing herself onto the table to look closer at the ring, Jolyne easily obliging. Emporio had the widest smile on his face, having already known and Weather Report held an unusual but calm smile on his face.

To your right however, you suddenly heard a chair screech, followed by a loud clang.

Anasui had abruptly risen to his feet, rage in his eyes as he stabbed his knife into the wooden table next to his plate.

Before he could say or do anything however, Jotaro had snapped his hand around the man’s elbow, tightly squeezing as he yanked Anasui back down into his seat.

“You shut up and smile.” He spoke, voice low as he glared at Anasui, a silent rage emanating from him that you hadn’t seen in quite some time.

“I won’t sit here and-“

“Then you won’t sit here!” Jotaro interrupted, yanking his arm before abruptly getting up himself, dragging Anasui with him to his feet.

Angry, a shimmering aura of a stand began to grow around Anasui, but Jotaro retaliated instantly, a familiar purple beginning to emanate around it.

“Think very carefully about what you’re going to do.” He spoke threateningly. Yet when Anasui just grit his teeth, glaring daggers at Ermes, the raven tightened his grip on his elbow and began to drag the pink-haired man out of the restaurant.

“I’ll make sure he makes it out alive.” Weather Report sighed as he got up. “Congratulations Ermes, Jolyne.” He said, giving another little smile before following the marine biologist and his impromptu charge.

Now you knew why Jolyne had made Jotaro sit next to Anasui.

Sighing softly, you then turned to your daughter, reaching out to grab her hand, reaching over to grab Ermes’ a second later. “I’m so happy for you two.” You whispered, tears in your eyes, which in turn caused Jolyne’s to fill as well. “I speak for both your father and myself when I say that I’m so proud of you, sweetheart. You’ve been through so much. The both of you have. And I’m so happy to see you find solace in each other.”

At that, the two glanced at each other, Ermes reaching out and linking her free hand with Jolyne’s.

“Ermes?” You said her name and she turned, looking at you. “I couldn’t be happier to have you join our family. And you will always have a family in us.” You whispered. At that, you almost physically saw the lump form in her throat as she then nodded with a shy smile.

Smiling wide, you had to keep back your emotions as you then got up, starting to drag both out of their seats. Dragging Jolyne into a hug, she happily joined, Ermes stepping up a second later, joining in on your insistence as you hugged both women tight.

“Congratulations.”

Pulling back, Jolyne smiled at you, blinking away tears. “Thank you, mom.” She whispered and you reached up, thumbing away the beginning tear in the corner of her eye, saving her makeup.

“I’m so excited!” Foo suddenly exclaimed, pulling Emporio close into a hug, the boy tensing up and frowning a bit, his growing age making him more averse to affection – like most teenage boys – making you chuckle a bit.

Just then, Jotaro and Weather Report came walking back in, Jotaro shaking his hand out a bit while Weather walked a bit more casual.

Yet as the raven walked up, seeing you all on your feet, he softened. Especially when Jolyne broke away from you and rushed up to him.

Without hesitation, he pulled her into his arms, burying his face into her shoulder as he hugged her tight. You watched as he spoke a few words – too quiet to hear – but it resulted in Jolyne holding him tighter.

The two embraced for a few seconds longer while Weather Report took his place at the table again. Then, they pulled apart, Jotaro taking off his hat for a brief second to press a short kiss to his daughter’s forehead, just like he used to when she was a little kid.

Walking over a moment later, he walked up to Ermes, tightly shaking her hand. “Treat her well.” He muttered and Ermes hummed, a bit of a cocky smile on her face.

“Wouldn’t do anything else. Pink baby give you much trouble?”

“He asked to pass on his congratulations.” Jotaro said coolly, letting go of Ermes’ hand as he then walked back over to his seat beside you. “He unfortunately had to go home.”

Rolling your eyes good-naturedly, you took your seat at the table again as well.

Once everyone was seated, conversation flowed naturally, food being eaten before the main course was served. And by the time that dessert rolled around, Foo Fighters was firmly drunk after having stolen Weather’s glass of wine, and Jolyne’s ring had been thoroughly inspected at least a hundred times.

- - - -

Walking into the bedroom, Jotaro’s face fell into a deadpan as he saw you sitting upright in bed with your laptop on your lap. “Are you still on it?”

“It has to be perfect.” You mumbled, typing away as you continued to search for different venues.

It had taken about six months since the engagement, but Ermes and Jolyne had finally began planning the wedding, having asked you and Jotaro for your input – both thanks to the fact that you were funding it for a big part, as well as the fact that you already had experience when it came to planning a wedding.

“Darling, leave some planning to them. A bit of wedding stress is good for them.” He sighed, taking off his shirt as he walked to his side of the bed, lifting his pillow and rummaging under it to find the pyjama pants he keeps there.

“But there’s so much to do, I just want to help.” You frowned, glancing to the side to see your husband switch out his pants for the pyjama ones.

“Your helping is causing you to stress like it’s your own wedding. They’re smart girls, they can handle it.” Jotaro said, climbing into bed beside you.

“But-“

He grabbed your cheek and turned your head to face him, shutting you up. “No buts. Sleep, Y/N.”

“I’m not overbearing, am I?” You whisper, worried now and Jotaro huffed in amusement, rubbing his thumb over your cheek.

“No, you’re not. Jolyne asked me to get you to take a break because she’s worried about you. She assured me she appreciates you taking the work load from them, but as I said; let them have their own wedding stress. It’s healthy.”

“You sure?”

Reaching over, Jotaro closed your laptop and placed it on his nightstand, shuffling down under the blankets a bit while pulling you down with him. “Certain.” He assured, looking at you with gentle eyes. Age had truly mellowed this man out.

“Okay.” You whispered, allowing him to pull you in as he took a deep breath, his arms tight around you as he cuddled you close, your own body melding with his.

“Goodnight.”

“Sleep well, love.” He muttered.

- - - -

Reaching up, you straightened Jotaro’s bow tie a bit.

“I can’t believe she still invited him.” The raven grumbled and you sighed softly.

“Like it or not, she views Anasui as a friend. He saved our lives, remember?” You asked, dusting his suit of imaginary dust as you spoke and Jotaro huffed.

“I’ve saved his life dozens of times by not caving his skull in.”

Letting out a little ‘tssk’ you softly hit his arm. “It’s your daughter’s wedding day! Stop with the negative talk.” You scolded, crossing your arms. “He won’t be a problem. Weather Report is there to keep an eye on him.”

“He’s going to object.” Jotaro spoke matter of fact, clearly displeased.

“Didn’t you threaten him so severely he stayed out of Jolyne and Ermes’ way the entire wedding planning?” You countered, raising an eyebrow and Jotaro sighed.

“Yes, but even his malleability has an end. He’s obsessed with Jolyne. It’s dangerous.” He frowned and you nodded, not wanting to wave his concerns away, as well as knowing he was right.

“This is true, but Jolyne only allowed him to be here if he promised to behave. And we’ll step in if we have to.”

“I don’t like it.” Jotaro just said and you gave him a sad little smile before leaning up, pressing a small kiss to his lips.

“I think you don’t have to worry.” You said. “I heard Ermes talking to Jolyne earlier, said she had it handled.”

At that, Jotaro seemed pleasantly surprised. “She okay?”

“Weather went with her.”

“Good man.”

Chuckling a bit, you nodded, patting his chest for a moment until music started up in the chapel. “Oh, that’s my cue.” You hummed, standing up straight. “I’ll see you at the front row. Love you.”

With that, you walked through he double doors, leaving Jotaro alone in the forechamber. “Love you too.” He mumbled, looking down and straightening the small flowers in his suit jacket pocket.

And then, a door opened behind him and Jotaro turned, the crease in his brow vanishing as slowly, Jolyne stepped out of her dressing room.

She was dressed in a beautiful wedding gown, white as snow and fanning out from her hips, giving a simple yet elegant shape, accentuated by jewelry embroidered into the boddice. Her hair was up into a perfectly sculpted bun, wreathed in braids.

“Look at you.” Jotaro muttered, holding out his hand and Jolyne walked over, positively shining as she took his hand, a smile tugging at her lips.

“Can you help me, dad?” She whispered, holding up her veil.

Looking down at it, he huffed a little in amusement and nodded, gently taking the piece of fabric from her.

Stepping closer, he raised his arms, carefully inspecting her hair, testing where it would be best to push the prongs of the veil’s comb into to keep it in place. With a gentle move, he slid the prongs into her hair.

“This reminds me of when you used to do my hair.” Jolyne whispered and a fond smile spread on her father’s face.

“Only fitting I do it one last time before giving you away.” He muttered, fixing the veil in front of her face so that it hung proper. “You planned it, didn’t you?” He asked and Jolyne smiled from behind the white silk, nodding.

“I love you, dad.” She whispered, her voice breaking a bit and Jotaro had to take in a heavy breath, cradling her cheeks through the veil as he pressed a kiss to the top of her head.

“I love you too, my little seastar.” He murmured back before pulling away, giving her a proud look before he shifted to stand beside her, holding out his arm. “Are you ready?”

“Ready as I’ll ever be.” Jolyne said back, her nerves flaring and Jotaro hummed.

“Then you’re doing better than I was.”

“Really?” She murmured, looking up at her dad and the raven nodded.

“I was sure I was going to throw up, waiting at the alter for your mother. Let’s hope Ermes is doing better than me.”

“So, I finally have something I’m better at than you?” Jolyne teased and at that, Jotaro turned his head to look at her, right as from inside the chapel, the organ began to play, the ceremony starting.

“You’ve always been better than me, Jolyne.” He spoke, his eyes soft. “You’re my little girl.”

Taking in a shaky breath, Jolyne was just forced to bite her lip and hold in her tears as right at that moment, the doors were opened, showing her to the gathered people.

Inside, everyone was waiting on chairs, even though there weren’t that many family or friends gathered. Ahead, Foo Fighters was spreading flowers across the carpet, fit to burst with excitement before she quickly veered off to the right and sat down in one of the few chairs set up in the room, not many attendees present.

Still, as the two Kujo’s started walking down the aisle, Jolyne felt her heart fit to burst, seeing Ermes stand at the altar, a proud smile on her face.

Almost perfectly, the sun shone in through the stained glass windows of the church and Jotaro glanced left, seeing the head of Weather Report’s Stand peeking out behind the man, even as he sat next to a pissed off Anasui.

Finally, the two reached the end of the aisle and Jotaro turned to Jolyne one last time, looking down at her, his hands dropping down to hold onto hers.

“Go start your life, Jolyne. Properly this time.” He quietly spoke, glancing up to Ermes who was still beaming with pride in her white suit, in awe of Jolyne in her wedding dress.

With a small squeeze to his daughter’s hands, he then helped her up the shallow stairs onto the altar, his hand feeling strangely empty the moment Jolyne’s left his to instead grab Ermes’.

Letting out a little breath, he turned and moved to sit down on the empty chair next to you, feeling your hand grabbing hold of his. And god did he not realise he needed that.

Together, you watched as the officiant began to read his lines, Ermes and Jolyne only having eyes for each other at this point.

They looked gorgeous and so so happy together and Jotaro was once again reminded of the Joestar family saying. Joestars only fell in love once in their life. And Jolyne had found her single love.

As the ceremony progressed, the entire church was dead silent, solely focused on the couple while the sun continued to shine perfectly down through the windows, bathing them in a multitude of colours.

And then, it came time for that dreaded part of the ceremony as the officiant called out. “Is there anyone who objects to this union?”

Turning around, Jotaro glared at the man sitting two rows back from him, but before either could do anything, a snap came from behind the raven, followed quickly by a kiss sound coming from around Anasui. He opened his mouth to protest and both you and Jotaro watched how there were two tongues in his mouth, only to snap together as Ermes’ signature Stand sticker disappeared.

Immediately, Weather Report shoved a handkerchief towards the man so he could hide his grunt of pain, as well as the blood.

For, with his tongue shredded, Anasui couldn’t speak a single word.

“Very well. The rings, if you’d please.” The officiant asked and carefully, Emporio stood up from his seat beside you, walking over to the two where he presented the rings.

With a smile, Jolyne took one first, slowly sliding it onto Ermes’ hand while repeating the phrase the officiant read aloud. Shortly after, Ermes did the same, Emporio walking back over to his seat.

Watching it together, Jotaro held your hand tighter and tighter, watching as Ermes now reached up, lifting Jolyne’s veil.

“You may now kiss the bride.”

Reaching out, Jolyne grabbed Ermes by the hips before twisting her into a dip and kissing her deep as instantly, applause and cheering roared out through the church.

Your smile was as wide as the Chesire cat’s as you stood up like many as you watched the scene.

And as you looked over at Jotaro, his eyes were misty as he watched, clapping as he stood beside you, seeing Jolyne pull Ermes back to her feet, the two of them smiling sweetly at each other before sharing another, more tender kiss.

With that, the two of them began to ran down the aisle together, rushing out the doors and as you watched, Jotaro’s arm slid around your waist as he pulled you in tight, not having his hat to be able to hide his emotions.

-

If you wanna commission me

[xan-izme]

Double Life (ATSV x Reader x Batfam)

Part 2

Summary: Reader has been spider woman for two years. Also working in the Spider Society for five months now. After reader suffers a canon event and losses trust in Miguel, reader has to leave New York and live in Gotham where her biological father resides.

You were in pain, holding a bus with over 26 passengers in it with one web and your mother hanging from a fall that could end terribly.

Spider woman was trying to save both the passengers and preventing the woman from falling. But that woman was your mother, she knew of your true identity, she helped you become spider woman. And like any mother, she can see right through you.

Your mother sees that you can't do this. So, she made the hard choice for you.

And cut herself off from your web so you could save the multiple lives on that bus.

You watched the cars pass by, fiddling with the jewelry on your wrist. After finding out that Miguel had knew all along of your canon events. He knew and never told you.

You quit the Spider society and had to leave New York to live with your biological father, a man who didn't know of your existence till recently. And it was none other than Bruce Wayne himself.

You wish you were able to stay with your uncle or your aunt. But it was against the law, it couldn't be helped. Your uncle promised he would take care of New York for you.

Spider-Woman was now out of the picture.

"Miss Y/n, we are here." A man named Alfred, was the one who spoke. He was the butler of the family. You gave him a nod and got out of the limo and went to the back of the truck.

"it's alright, I can carry them." You were able to grab your bags before Alfred could. It was just your backpack.

The mansion was big. It looked like a damn museum to you. You were hesitant to walk up the stairs to the door. Feeling a little nervous, your meeting people you aren't familiar with yet. On top of that, you're still trying to get used to the weather.

You adjusted your bag and walked up the stairs.

You were planning in your head how to playthings out. You did some background checks on the Waynes. Bruce Wayne adopted multiple boys; none took his last name. One boy who was of 12-13 years of age was blood related the Bruce, taken in by Bruce not too long ago.

You doubt you'll meet Bruce soon, due to his image as a busy playboy. So, you assume he isn't home at the moment, it's the weekend so the youngest by, Damian should be home, unless he is doing some extra activities.

Once you got into the manor, Alfred led you upstairs to a room that was now yours. All of your boxes were already in. You walked around the room, observing the place to try and get familiar with it.

"Master Bruce would like to see you down in his office in an hour." Alfred explained. You paused and looked to the elderly man.

"Oh, he's here?" That was a shock to you. You thought he would be out of town, guess not. "Yes." Alfred bluntly replied and continued to explain the some of the family members would arrive for dinner to meet you.

You gave him a forced smile and turned away so you could frown. Because you were so ready to be alone for the day, just for you to have to meet the whole damn family. Alfred left you to unpack.

You started to the boxes from the floor. Nothing was loose, you checked under the bed, the same thing. Causing you to move to the bathroom. You were actually stoked you had your own bathroom, more privacy.

You searched for any lose tiles, you opened the mirror cabinet. You could make a stash from the behind of the inside.

After an hour had passed, you left the room and slowly made your way downstairs. Taking in the paintings on the wall, the smells. You could feel your Spidey senses going off just a little bit. It wasn't too alarming; the feeling was just a bit faint.

You convinced yourself that you have gotten a little too paranoid. After everything that happened, you needed to get used to this new life.

"Hello? Mr. Wayne?" You spoke as you entered the room, knocking on the door frame, just in case he couldn't hear you loud enough.

Bruce was quick to stand from his couch and approached you with a smile. "Y/n, it's great to finally meet you." You held your hand out, he stared down at it for a quick second and shook your hand firmly.

"Same here sir." You smiled back at him. Bruce chuckled "You don't have to be so formal with me, Bruce is perfectly fine." You gave out a low, nervous laugh and nodded. Bruce led you to the couches, Alfred left the room to get you and Bruce some refreshments.

"I saw your academic scores from your last school. You went to a privet school in Brooklyn, yes? Top in all classes. Very impressive." Bruce was striking up some small conversation. You nod and wait till it was time for you to talk.

Alfred came in and gave you and Bruce your drinks. You took in the smell of the coffee you were given. You took a sip and continued to listen to Bruce. "There is a privet school where my youngest son attends, Damian. Once everything is sorted out, that is where you will be attending school."

"You mean West-Reeve? I-I assumed that school was for middle schoolers?" You questioned. "West-Reeve contains grades 6-12. Was there another school you had in mind?"

Bruce was hopping you would say no. He needs to keep a close eye on you. You're just a normal citizen who needs to be protected if anything to his vigilante life gets entangled with you in any way. So, putting you in the same school as Damian who would have eyes on you inside the school.

You had taken a moment to think about it. You didn't want to be in the same school as Damian. No hate to the kid, you just didn't want to see any of the other Wayne members elsewhere then in the manor. But you didn't want to push it, you are grateful enough Bruce as come to see you and talk to you in person to try and get you conferrable with your new living conditions.

"No sir, thank you."

Bruce sweat dropped at you still addressing him as 'sir'.

The two of you spoke a little longer before you left to head back to your room. Once you got there, the door was open. You frown, not remembering it being left open.

You then see a boy standing in the middle of your room. You realized who it was. "Damian, right?" The boy snaped out of his train of thought once he heard your voice.

You tilt your head when he gave you no response and just stared at you. You walked up to him and held out your hand. He shook your hand, squeezing it a little too tight for comfort.

"I'm Y/n."

"I know that." The boys' blunt words made you feel awkward. You cleared your throat and removed your hand from his.

"How come I couldn't hear your footsteps?"

'Okay, wired question.' you thought to yourself.

"I've been told I'm light on my feet. I-is there something you needed?" You just wanted to be left alone. You can already tell by this boy's snarky attitude, that he will be a pain.

Damian huffed and turned away. Telling you to enjoy your stay. Which made it sound like you were just a temporary guest. You wished that were the case. But reality is cruel, and you will be staying in this manor for a few years.

Dinner time was okay. You had to put on a facade that didn't look too sad. But didn't look so happy, you had to keep emotions in cheek. you only met Tim Drake and Dick Grayson. Dick was nice, he asked you a lot of questions, what genre of music you liked, what school subject you were more interested and your life in New York.

"Me and my cousin are really into science. He's more into Physics while I was more into Geology. We used to do debates on which Major would be more fun."

Bruce and Dick chuckle at that. You were smart, you had to address that. You needed them to know you wouldn't be a problem when it comes to academics. The manners you have been showing are to let them know you'll behave and not be a problem in home life.

You were able to speak to Damian a little more. He didn't seem that stuck up anymore. Dinner went smoothly. You bid everyone goodnight and head to bed.

Dick, Tim and Damian were in the bat cave. Bruce and Damian were ready to head out to patrol, but Bruce wanted to discuss more about you.

"She's a smart one. Can give her that." Tim was on the computers, pulling up everything he can find on you. Social media, school records, anything he could find.

"She and that cousin she brought up, were on the newspapers in Brooklyne a few years back for inventing a machine that could enter over 60 meters underwater and give out a wi-fi signal from 20 miles away- okay. Now that's impressive!"

Damian rolled his eyes, unimpressed. "Does she have any criminal records? Misbehaver in school maybe?"

Tim deadpans at those words. "Come on Damian, she seems harmless. A normal citizen." Dick spoke, letting out a chuckle.

"Well, she's a clean slate. And only had detention for being late to a few classes." Tim sighed and leaned back in his chair. Damian didn't know why, but he felt off about this new sister of his.

Bruce entered the bat cave and started to talk. He wanted the boys to make sure to make you feel welcomed. Damian has to keep an eye on her here and there at school. If she decides to join a club, then Damian will stay behind to be with her.

Of course, the young boy disliked this a lot. But he had no choice. Not like you had much of a choice either.

[notroosterbradshaw]

Oh thank you for the compliment :) i'm sure you could do it justice but maybe we could get some generic hangman fluff maybe with them at the beach and he looks out for her by putting sunblock on her and making sure she's eats lunch and stays hydrated and he's teasing her and being very playful with her? Thanks



Okie doke, you get your Hangman on the beach, nonny. I hope you enjoy! Hangman fluff awaits. Dagger Squad future fic.

You liked this new tradition you were able to share with Jake. Each year, around the same time depending on deployments, family commitments, you know the normal life stuff, Dagger Squad came from far and wide to try and get back to the beach for their annual defensive football game and bonfire. Mid-afternoon, the egos start running their mouths about which team will win, and what the stakes are (and the winners and partners always enjoyed the 200 push-ups for the losers and Fanboy's sigh at wishing he never mentioned it).

"Right here, baby?" Jake asked quietly, saying a quiet hello to Bob's partner and burgeoning baby belly and Penny. His warm palm skimming the skin between your ripped jeans shorts and his old Foreigner tee you'd knotted in the back to make work. He nuzzled your neck as he dropped the cooler and whipped off his shirt. He hadn't buttoned it so what difference did it mean as he slid out of his flip flops and put all his gear into a pile and into the beach bag.

Some regiments he just couldn't shake, and neatness was one of them. So was the gym. You would love him endlessly anyway, but he was proud of his body and worked hard on maintaining it as he got older. You were proud he was proud he took such good care of himself and you reaped the benefits.

Ha gave you some space as he unfolded the blanket and flicked it out onto the warm sand as Harvard and Yale approached him and within seconds, they were talking about recent deployments, new kit, and manoeuvres. You were as supportive as you could be with things you'd rather be kept in the dark over. Jake respected that. He knew what he did terrifed you but the boys just understood it better than you ever could. You were absolutely not offended.

You tossed some bits and pieces on the blanket, camera, snacks, and sunscreen. "Ooh," Jake smirked, popping to pick up the sunscreen. "May I?" he asked eagerly.

"May I?" you repeated, biting back your grin. "Aren't you proper today?"

"I would hate for you to be burnt. It's a skin trauma, baby," he protested as you took your sunnies off and glared at him. "And I wanna feel you up. Sue me," he shrugged, his true personality shining through.

"Well, aren't you sweet?" you roughly patted his cheek and the masochist in him loved the lack of caress in your touch. He adjusted his jaw appreciatively. "Okay, Jake. Just to avoid the trauma."

"Your skin is your biggest organ," he reminded you, watching you lift the shirt over your shoulders, licking his lips at the additional skin you'd been keeping under wraps. "Not mine..." he muttered cheekily.

"Jake, knock it off," you laughed as he grinned wide, turning you away from him. You wouldn't complain about the extra touch and affection that lasted a good five minutes, you we melting under his light touch. He kissed the nape of your neck in finality. "I'm good?" you asked quietly.

"You're very, very good," he growled playfully swatting your butt.

You gave him space and sat on the beach blanket, sunnies back on, and Jake plopped your hat on your head. "Thank you."

"Here ya go, sweetheart," Jake handed you your water bottle. "Gettin' hot out here," he grinned. He thrived in hot weather. You smiled against his lips as he laid a gentle kiss on you. "You wanna play?" he could hear the catcalling and jeering for Jake to toss the ball around.

"Would rather put knitting needles in my eyes. Only here to watch the bodies," you joked... kind of.

"You just mean mine, right?" he asked, a mix of unsurity and arrogance as you laughed.

"Yes, Jake. Only yours. Go have fun," you reassured him, taking a seat and a cool slug from your water bottle as he stood over you and squatted to give you another sweet kiss.

"I'm glad you're here, sweetheart. I'm happy as this group gets bigger that you're here with me and you get to meet the people I trust more than my own family."

You cupped his jaw. "They are your family. They are our family, baby. You big softie."

Warm in the sun, but you noticed his ears flush and duck his eyes. "Don't tell anyone or my reputation will be shattered," he teased as you both laughed loudly, and his heart swelled to bring that smile to your beautiful face. "Gimme some lovin' before I go and kick these preppy asses," he smiled against your lips and kissed you deeply. "Another," he demanded. "You're so sweet, I can't handle it," his nose nuzzled against yours.

You knew his friends were mocking him behind his back but you were very confident he didn't change his behaviour around his friends and was comfortable enough to lay some love on you and you were very aware of Penny's stare... and jaw-dropping.

"Jake, Jesus!" you hear Coyote holler.

"Your bestie is pissed," you told Jake as he looked back over his shoulder and gave the team a selective one-finger salute. "Go, before they think it's me keeping you here. And not your that's horribly whipped."

"I'm whipped," he admitted and stretched, this incredible body flexing in all the right places, the golden sun making the beads of sweat his flawless skin glisten. Jesus, he was just so sexy. "I freely admit it."

"Go," you scooted him as his persona changed and Hangman arrived.

"All right, all right, all right, who is ready for some football?" he boomed, drifting over to his friends. It got rough and competitive, sweaty and slippery pretty quickly and you got closer a while later to take some polaroids as the sun set for shits and giggles later tonight to hand out. You had a pleasant afternoon as more friends and family joined you and kept you busy.

As the game was called and losers paid their penance in the form of push-ups, you watched Jake and Rooster put together the bonfire, the part you were most excited for. Yes, Jake Seresin was hotter, if possible, in most light, but the way the flames flickered over his face as you chatted with Natasha and he kept his arm around your shoulder, under the pretence of keeping you warmed before the roaring fire.

"You hungry, babydoll?" he murmured in your ear, the barbecue well and truly cranked and the smells driving your tummy into overdrive. "Beer?"

"Yes to both, please?" you asked and he nodded, kissing you tenderly before leaving you with Natasha. She shook her head in disbelief.

"Who is that guy and what did he do with Bagman?" she asked, astonished. You grinned. "That is a man in love."

[daisynik7]

you’re killing me with all this angst!! 😭 any possible unrequited but happy ending with Eren when you have the time and will? Or just anything fluffy really, just to put a dinosaur print bandaid on all the broken hearts 😭

🎶 You've got my heart bursting at the seams, maybe you're the boy of my dreams. 🎶

Title: Dream Boy

Pairing: jock!Eren x shy!reader

Word Count: ~3.5k

cw: unrequited crush, fluff, college au

Summary: You’ve had a crush on Eren Jaeger for a while now. He’s the captain of your university’s swim team who also happens to be a fellow engineering major, like you. For months, you’ve admired from afar, letting yourself daydream about being his girlfriend. But that’s all it is: fantasy. Until one day, when you’re invited to a beach outing with friends, and he happens to be there too. 

Author’s Notes: Thanks for the request, anon! Going with a common trope here, hope you don’t mind! I’ve always been a sucker for popular jock x shy nerd, so I hope you like this one! Also, fair warning, I have never surfed in my life, and I had to do some research on this, so major apologies if I got any of these details wrong, please don’t be mean to me LOL. Title is inspired by the song "Dream Boy" by Beach Bunny! Listen if you want to set the mood right. Divider credit to @/saradika.

With the weather getting warmer and the sun shining brighter, a trip to the beach sounds like the perfect idea to get away. Midterms just ended and finals are fast approaching in a few weeks. This is the only weekend when it makes sense to relax before you have to start the grind once more.  

It’s your roommate, Sasha, who originally plans this little weekend getaway. When you’re not too busy studying, you’re hanging out with her. She’s become your closest friend since you first lived with her freshman year, always friendly and making the effort to include you in all her social affairs, even when you decline so often. Through her, you met Mikasa and Annie, who have been nothing but kind to you, despite having strong personalities. You’re excited to get to know them even better by going on this trip with them.

With Annie’s car packed with all of your belongings, the four of you set out on the hour-long journey. Mikasa offered her parent’s beach house to stay at which works out perfectly for broke college students. Using your meal plans, you collectively purchased enough snacks and beverages to last the next two nights. So far, everything is working out swimmingly. 

You arrive to your destination, stoked to be spending the weekend with the beach as your backyard. Mikasa points out the other car parked in the driveway, groaning. “Oh no. Eren’s here. And he probably brought the rest of the boys.”

Sasha turns to face her. “Huh? What do you mean?”

“That’s his car. And those are their surfboards on the rack. They’re definitely here.”

Your roommate directs her question at you. “Are you okay with this?”

You smile, a little taken aback that you’ll be sharing a home with a few strangers, but fine overall. “Yeah, should be fun. By the way, who’s Eren?”

“Eren Jaeger, my brother.”

Upon hearing his full name, you do your best to swallow the strangled noise in your throat, playing it cool. Eren Jaeger? Captain of the school’s swim team? Fellow engineering student and your classmate for two of your current courses, three last semester? The guy you’ve had the hugest crush on since you first laid eyes on him freshmen year, when you used to live a floor above him? That Eren Jaeger? 

“Oh, cool,” you say, totally not meaning it. Still, you have to keep your composure. Knowing this information has you feeling self-conscious. You didn’t pack your best clothes, under the impression this was just a girl’s trip. And you realize that he might see you in your swimsuit, which you’re horrified about. Internally, you’re freaking out, unprepared for this recent development. You contemplate calling a taxi, faking an illness to avoid any possible embarrassment you’ll display in front of him. Before you can, Sasha drags you into the house, both your bags in hand, announcing your arrival. “Eren! We know you’re in here!”

Mikasa and Annie follow, carrying the rest of the luggage with them, inspecting the house. “Hey, Jaeger. Get out here,” Annie demands.

He strolls in from one of the hallways, hair down, in a white t-shirt and basketball shorts, slides on his feet. Looking as cool and attractive as ever. You hide behind Sasha, cheeks already hot. 

“What are you doing here?” he asks Mikasa, placing a hair tie between his lips, fingers running through his hair to put it up in a ponytail. 

“Carla and Grisha said I could use the house for the weekend. What are you doing here?”

“Brought the boys to surf and chill. I guess I should have asked Mom and Dad first.” He shrugs, unfazed.

Mikasa rolls her eyes. “You should have told me you were coming. I have guests.”

He glances at the rest of you. “So? It’s just Sasha and Annie. What’s the big deal?”

“My roommate’s here too!” Sasha mentions, stepping aside to reveal you. “And it’s weird sharing a house with boys!” 

You give him a small wave, a weak grin on your face. “Hello.”

He steps towards you, squinting as if he’s studying you carefully. “Hey! It’s you!”

You blurt out a confused, “Huh?”

He says your full name, shocking you further, before he continues. “You’re in my class. Physics and Materials Science, right?”

You’re surprised that he recognizes you, that he even knows your name. Up until this point, you were convinced that you were invisible to him. You nod, momentarily speechless when he smiles at you. “I’m sorry for showing up like this. We can leave if you want us to.”

“Yeah, maybe you should,” Annie comments, crossing her arms over her chest. 

Before anyone else can speak, you say, “It’s okay. You don’t have to leave.” If you’re going to grow up and move on from this crush, you can’t chicken out on things like this. And besides, you don’t want to be the one person who ruins all the fun. 

“Are you sure? It’s not a big deal. It’s just an hour drive. I don’t want to make anyone uncomfortable.”

“It’s fine. The more the merrier, right?”

He grins. “As long as you’re okay with this.”

Mikasa, on the other hand, says, “Well, what if I’m not okay with this.”

“Fine. Then you be the one to kick out Jean. He was really looking forward to surfing today.” At the mention of that name, Mikasa blushes, not responding. The rest of you girls have an idea about Mikasa’s crush on Jean, so it’s not surprising when she doesn’t pester Eren anymore. Even Annie’s eyes light up when Armin comes out of one of the rooms, greeting you. 

After settling in, everyone gathers in the living room, planning what to do next. Collectively, you agree to head outside to relax on the beach while the boys surf. You try to contain your excitement at seeing Eren in a skin-tight body suit, holding onto the giant board, hair tied in a messy bun like a male model for Billabong. 

You lay towels and blankets all around the sand, setting up umbrellas to block out the blistering sun. Annie dumps all the snacks in the middle, while the four of you stretch out comfortably. You hide yourself under a towel, self-conscious about in a bathing suit in front of Eren, who probably doesn’t notice anyways. 

Sasha plays music on her Bluetooth speaker while you and Mikasa open your books, reading. Annie watches a movie on her phone, headphones plugged in. An hour later, Eren comes running up from the shore, dripping with ocean water, hair matted, still gorgeous. He glances at you first, flashing his brilliant smile. “Hey, do you want to try?” He knocks his fist against the surfboard, waiting for your answer.

“Oh, I don’t know. I don’t think I’ll be good at it. In fact, I think I’ll be very, very bad at it,” you admit.

“It’s okay. I can just show you how to sit on it. We won’t actually ride the big waves. You know how to swim, right?”

You nod, placing your book in your bag. This is too good of an opportunity to pass up, especially since it means quality time with him. However, you can’t help but feel nervous, expecting to make a fool of yourself. Sasha encourages you. “You should go try it! It’ll be fun.”

Mikasa adds, “Yeah, Eren is surprisingly a good teacher.”

Convinced, you stand up, hesitantly letting the towel fall to expose yourself in your swimsuit. You avoid his gaze, too flustered worrying about what he thinks of you. He leads the way to the shore, you following close behind him. The rest of the guys sit on the sand next to their boards, chatting. When they see you, they wave, giving you some motivating thumbs up. 

Eren turns to face you, pausing. “First, you have to attach the leash.” He squats down, hands near your foot, peering up at you. “Do you mind?”

Unaware of what the leash even is, you remain calm, trying to ignore your excitement with him this close to your bare skin. “Go ahead.”

He wraps the Velcro around your ankle, fingers brushing against you delicately. He readjusts it three times, asking on the third, “Is this too tight?”

“No,” you answer, still staring out towards the sea, unable to meet his gaze.

He stands back up to explain the basics of surfing. It’s all too much to retain in a short amount of time, but you listen and appreciate how well he describes each step, memorizing the most important details. 

“We should practice getting on the board first before we enter,” he suggests, placing it flat on the sand, beckoning you to get on it. “Just lay on it, face down, and get used to how it feels against your body.” You get down, pressing your stomach to the deck, gripping to the sides. 

“Good job.” He squats again, level with you. “Once we’re in the water, you’re gonna want to move fast. You have to push the board forward against the force of the waves, then quickly hop on. It might be a little tough, but I know you can do it. The waves are strong, so if you can’t get the timing right, make sure you lift your board up with the peak and hold on tight, so that you don’t get dragged with it.”

You nod, getting increasingly anxious. With the information locked in your brain, you follow Eren into the ocean, board floating steadily on the surface, your hand on the center. He isn’t exaggerating; the waves are intense, even the tiny ones close to shore. Once you are waist deep, Eren, who’s farther away from you now, turns up the volume of his voice louder, cupping one hand around his mouth, the other pointing to the incoming wave. “It’s coming!”

It approaches fast, almost too quickly. Before you know it, the force drags you backwards, falling in. Wet from head to toe now, you resurface, grabbing the board to reposition yourself, grasping both the tail and the deck, remembering his instructions from earlier. 

“Are you okay?” he yells out, concerned.

“Yeah!” you respond, preparing for the next one. With more determination and confidence, you push forward, hopping on successfully when the wave rushes in. 

“Great job!” he exclaims from behind you. Your chest swells with adrenaline and pride. There’s no time to waste as the next wave approaches. The next task is to straddle. You get in a push-up pose, grasping the side rails. It’s not enough though; it slides out from under you, knocking you back, a stream of salty water flushing your nose causing you to choke momentarily. Eren ruses over as fast as he can, waddling in the water, worried. “Are you okay?”

You laugh, an electrifying buzz coursing through your body. “Yeah! Let me try again.”

He smiles brightly, amused by your resolve. “Okay. Hold on really tight and make sure to slide the board slightly forward as you sit up.”

It takes you a couple more tries, salt water now burning your nose and throat, until you finally manage to straddle the board. You raise your fists in the air, turning your neck to face him. “I did it!”

Beaming, mimicking your celebratory gesture, he happily yells, “You did!” When the waves come, you and the board flow with it, bobbing up and down on the water. After minutes of struggling, covered in sweat, dripping with ocean water, you finally feel at peace. You enjoy riding a few more waves, dehydration slowly sinking in, surely from all the salt you’ve unintentionally swallowed. You glance at Eren, who’s watching you from a short distance away. “I think I’m good for the day! I need some water.”

He walks over, standing next to you. “Oh yeah, definitely. Great job, by the way. That was awesome seeing you like that.” He pats you gently on your knee, grinning. 

You giggle. “Thank you. So, uh, how do I get off this thing?”

“Well, this is going to the last thing I teach you, okay? You’re going to paddle out and towards the shore. Think you can do it?”

With whatever leftover determination you have, you nod, leaning your chest down to the board. He helps you readjust yourself so that you’re facing the sands. “The wave is coming! Get ready to paddle!”

Like a dog trying to swim, you flail your arms as if your life depends on it, successfully riding the wave until it comes to a stop on the shore. Armin, Connie, and Jean, witnessing this still sat in the same spot, cheer. When you stand up, your equilibrium is all off, losing balance. Luckily, Eren runs up to catch you, steadying you. “That was awesome. You did so good!”

Catching your breath, tired from all the physical exertion and adrenaline, you breathe out, “Thank you,” giving him a weak smile. The two of you walk to the rest of your friends, Eren’s hand on your back, in case you lose balance again. As you approach the girls, they applaud, beaming with joy. 

“That was epic!” Sasha exclaims, handing you a water bottle. 

Suddenly, he’s gripping your shoulders, squeezing affectionately. “She’s the best. Never gave up, totally committed.” He turns his head to look at you, voice lower, speaking directly to you. “You were really great out there. I mean it. I never doubted you for a second. You’re the smartest person in class, so I knew this would be a piece of cake for you.”  

His last statement almost leaves you speechless. Voice trembling from exhaustion and his kind words, you reply, “Thank you. You’re a really great teacher.”

He gazes at you, seemingly forever, sliding his hands down to your elbows, lingering for just a moment longer until he lets you go. Clearing his throat, he announces, “I’m going to catch a few more waves with the guys. I’ll see y’all later.” Is it your imagination or is there a slight blush on his cheeks? It’s most likely from the sun, so you disregard it, not wanting to get your hopes up. 

You spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing beside your friends, like you had originally planned. The novel you started earlier is open in your hands, your mind definitely not focused on the words. Instead, you daydream about Eren, relishing what just occurred. All those times in class, fantasizing about different scenarios with him, always convinced that nothing would ever happen. Now, you can’t help letting your imagination run rampant. Still, when you all pack up to take the short trip back to the house, you let those fantasies disappear. There’s no way he feels anything for you beyond friendship. And you’ll just have to live with that. 

Later in the night, with everyone sun-kissed and clean from beach residue, you collectively decide to get cozy in your pajamas. Mikasa ignites the fire pit out on the balcony, perfect for the cool breeze. When four boxes of pizza are delivered, the eight of you huddle around the flames, enjoying the meal as you laugh at the stories being shared. Connie tells a hilarious tale about him and Jean streaking in the dead of night for a dare that resulting in almost exposing themselves to the university’s president. Annie mentions her roommate, Hitch, and how she slapped a creeper at a frat party, who wouldn’t stop annoying her. Sasha asks for advice on how to approach her crush, Nicolo, the young chef at the campus cafeteria who makes her breakfast burritos especially tasty. 

After a while, Eren suggests, “How about some s’mores? I brought the ingredients to make them. What do you say?”

Everyone hums in agreement. He directs his attention to you. “Can you help me in the kitchen?”

You obliged, surprised that he chose you specifically. Following him, you slide the door closed, quiet inside the house except for the muffled voices of your friends outside. In the kitchen, he reaches up for one of the cabinets, grabbing two bags of marshmallows, two big bricks of chocolate, and a box of graham crackers. In another drawer, he retrieves metal sticks to roast the marshmallows. In the meantime, you search for a large baking tray, eventually retrieving it from the oven. “Maybe we can set everything up on here so that It’s easier.”

He smiles at you. “Good idea.”

At the counter, you start unwrapping the chocolate, breaking them into sectioned pieces. Eren does the same with the graham crackers, the two of you working beside each other in a comfortable silence. Halfway through, he asks, “Did you have fun today?”

“Yeah, I had a lot of fun! Thank you again. I really had a blast.”

“I did too. It was a lot of fun hanging out with you today.”

“Maybe next time, I can actually learn how to surf for real,” you say, not thinking anything of it. 

He leans closer to you, arm brushing yours as you lay out the chocolate on the pan. “Yeah, next time.”

It’s silent again. You finish the chocolate, washing your hands clean to move on to the marshmallows. One bag in your hand, the other in Eren’s. “So, um, do you have a boyfriend or something?”

This catches you off guard. “No, I don’t.”

“Cool, cool, cool. I’m single too. In case you were wondering.” You’ve never heard this type of nervous energy in his voice before. It’s unusual to hear him like this. You’re unsure how to respond, unprepared for where this conversation is possibly heading. 

“Well, if you ever need someone to study with, I’m always available. The season is over, and I get tired of my teammates sometimes,” he says with a laugh.

“Do you want to study with me?” you ask, genuinely curious.

“I’d like to do a lot of things with you, actually.” There’s an undeniable blush on his cheeks as he pours the remaining marshmallows onto the tray. This can’t be just a sunburn, can it? 

Butterflies flutter in your belly. You look at him, smiling. You can’t chicken out now. Not when he’s giving you this chance, this opportunity. You need to go for it. “Can I be honest with you?”

He faces you, eager. “Of course.”

Sucking in a deep breath for this leap of faith, you confess. “I’ve had the biggest crush on you ever since freshman year.”

His smile widens, brilliant teeth on display. “What? When we used to live at Reiss?”

“You remember?” Your mouth hangs open, shocked that he recalls living in the same dorm as you. 

“Yeah, I do,” he answers. “You’re a hard one to forget.”

“I thought I was invisible.”

He shifts closer, tipping his head to meet your eyes. “Not to me.”

You face him, understanding that he’s always noticed you. He leans forward, lips inches from yours. “Can I be honest with you, too?” You nod, desperate to hear what he has to say.

Even closer now, lips grazing your ear, breath ticklish on your skin, he whispers, “I really like you. I’ve always been too nervous to do anything. I thought you’d only see me as a dumb jock.”

Immediately, you pull back, replying, “Never! I never thought that of you! I think you’re so smart.”

He laughs, eyes crinkled with admiration. “I think you’re so smart, too. And really, really cute.” 

You stare at each other for a moment, wishing this would last forever. Wanting to pinch yourself to confirm this is real. 

“Is it okay if I kiss you?” The pink hue on his cheeks gradually turns into a red.

A little too eager, you respond, “Yes!”, resulting in him giggling again, pressing his forehead to yours. The contact sets your skin on fire, body tingling with a different type of adrenaline than from earlier. With your eyes shut, you close the gap, lips brushing seamlessly into a delicate kiss. His hand slides behind your neck, sending you shivers as he pulls you in closer.

Suddenly, there’s loud banging on the sliding door, startling you two apart. Mikasa and Annie have their fists on the glass, yelling out something incoherent, Armin tugging on their sleeves in an attempt to stop them. Connie, Jean, and Sasha holler with huge grins on their faces. 

Eren laughs, shaking his head. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be,” you respond, smiling at him. 

You gaze at each other for another couple of seconds, cherishing this special moment before returning outside to your friends, carrying the goods. They all talk at once, hyped about what they just witnessed, berating you with loads of questions and advice. You and Eren sit beside each other, politely redirecting each inquiry and comment until your friends get tired of non-answers, eventually changing the subject. He lays out a warm blanket for the both of you, legs covered, knees touching while everyone begins to roast their marshmallows.

By the time the s’mores are completely assembled, mouths sticky and full of ooey-gooey sweetness, you and Eren munch on your treats happily, holding hands beneath the blanket. 

[octopiys]

Cw: blood/murder, body horror, mentions of catholic guilt

Witch!Johnny who has no idea of what he's doing.

His nights since "Simon" has returned have been restless, dreamless, and he's always woken up feeling.... unfinished. There was was always unease in his chest, buried deep, like the feeling of forgetting something. His days don't go by much easier.

His work is mostly on the computer, and there are sometimes where he must go into the offices, bring Gary some leftovers from the night before, fill out some files, and head on home.

Today, though, is different. He spends his time searching through every record their office had, trying to find any semblance of what he's seen.

Witch!Johnny, who's beginning to think the lack of sleep has made him go insane. Maybe he's making it up. He feels more comfortable gaslighting himself into believing that a storm pushed over the tree in his backyard, than-

NCO!Gary who finds Johnny asleep at his usually empty desk. There were numerous tabs pulled up on his computer, of age old chat forums and supernatural sightings from years ago, blogs that had gone cold. He smirks, shaking his head with the roll of his eyes as he pats Johnny on the back, trying to wake him up.

NCO!Johnny who wakes with a jolt. Gary looks slightly concerned, he must've fallen asleep again. He apologizes, and shuts down his computer. He's just felt so tired recently.

Witch!Johnny, who comes home to Ms. Riley, pacing anxiously on his front step, who's eyes light up when she sees him. She looks tired too.

"Oh, John, thank goodness- Mozzie's run away, and Tommy's coming in tonight, I was gonna ask if you can keep an eye out for him!" She pleads and he agrees, equally worried for Mozzie, short for Mozart, which is short for Mozzarella, who's been the Riley dog as long as he can remember. How the little rat dog escaped bequeaths him, but he promises to double check his wildlife traps tomorrow when he takes the cart around to collect them.

NCO!Johnny who ensured that his traps were practically harmless to the environment, not a doubt in the world that Mozzie had gotten into one of his raccoon cages.

Witch!Johnny who locks his doors twice tonight.

Fae!Simon, who thinks it's rather hot. The weather, that is.

It's a peculiar thought to have when some humans flesh and blood lies mangled beneath him. There was a soft inkling of recognition in the base of his skull, a little tendril that beckoned him to destroy it, and so he did. The heated metal bits that were fired at him had little effect. They could not hurt him now.

They could not hurt him anymore.

What used to be the wriggling mass under him had called him something odd, whispered it like a True Name, and it was. It hit a notch in the tendrils of his heart, and he sprung. This man had wronged him before, and used his true name to do so. Yet, when he said it, it didn't entirely feel like his.

Like something else shared it.

So it must've not been his after all.

He turns, the earth warm beneath his feet as the sun rose high in the sky.

What is a Simon, anyhow?

Witch!Johnny, who dreams tonight. He's a kid again, pouring over his nan's old books while she bakes too salty cookies in the kitchen. He never complained, and she gave him a handful of chocolate chips to munch on while the cookies were in the oven. Simon would be coming over later, and he too, would not complain about the cookies. Johnny would give him a chocolate chip for his bravery.

His Nan bumbles up to him, her chest puffing proudly that the boy is following in her footsteps. "Did ah ev'r tell ya 'boot my lil' Jackie?"

"Yes, Nan," He'd always say in response.

"Aye, but y' dinnae ever listen!" Something sharp lurks beneath her words, like sharp rocks that you take notice of when you finally take the training wheels off of your bike. "When ah was a wee lass, my lil broder, Jackie, was too curious for his own good. Born with caul, too, if ye can believe. Mam would call us in fer dinner, and she'd send me ou' ta find him. He loved the woods, that boy, and the life inside o' it. Real sweet lil' thing, too. Broke his heart anytime Mam squished a bug, and God forbid he stepped on one o' em on his own! I found him, one night, sittin' just inside o' the trees. There were mushrooms all 'round him, like somethin' had died just up under th' roots. An' ah knew then, I think. But ah ran inside and got me Mam, cus he would nae answer when ah called 'im. She came out with th' shears-" She pokes him in the side with a wooden spoon for extra measure, and he giggles, despite the tragedy of the story. "An' cuts up all o' the mushrooms, an' he sits up, and walks back inside."

"What then, nan?" He asks, always too eager for his own good.

"Thought ye said ye heard o' this one?" She teases him, before turning away and continuing. "He was so quiet after tha'. Made me sad, cus he would nae talk aboot anythin'. Like a switch had been triggered. He stepped on a bug he found that night. And another one, after that. His eyes were so cold." She trailed off, sounding almost sad, which seemed impossible to Johnny, because his Nan was never upset. "Me Mam turned him out the next week. Told him that she wanted her boy back. She warded the creature off with those shears up there, an I never saw 'im again." She hums, like this was an everyday occurrence as she gestures to the old sheers hanging in the window.

Witch!Johnny asks, no longer a child. "What was it, Nan?"

His Nan just smiles, before looking down at the book. "Seems like ye found one o' yer own, have ye nae?"

Witch!Johnny who looks down at the old book, where written in ancient ink across the top was the header: Changeling.

Witch!Johnny, who sits up in a cold sweat. His clock read 3:13. Unlucky. Somewhere in his former catholic brain, an alarm bell rang.

The curses of the law lifted by becoming the curse.

Did he still have that book?

He'd found one of his own. He spills out of his bed, racing to his bookshelf.

He blows dust off the cover and flips through it until he's satisfied, eyes settling on the thinning paper. Changelings. Was he right?

Deep-seated unease settles inside of him as he read, mentally ticking off boxes.

For it is written.

Pointed teeth. Cold eyes. Personality change. Precious, precious, precious. Did he play any instruments? No. Not Simon. He barely talked anymore. Barely ate, that he knew of.

Changeling, changeling, changeling.

The man that lives down the street, who came back rugged from war. The man who was not the person he grew up with. The Simon who came back. He should've known. Oh, his grandma must be turning in her grave right now, or laughing at his stupidity. He drops the book, hands shaking.

The Ghost that replaced Simon Riley was a Changeling.

Cursed is everyone who hangs in the trees.

Last part | Next part

Inspired by Meet Me In The Woods by Lord Huron

Taglist: @whorangi1104 @impossible-to-pronounce @the-only-universe-here

(If your blog is here but the tag doesn't work, there's a good chance your blog is accidentally hidden! Lmk if that's the case :) )

Any questions? My ask box is open!! <3

[aquaticwolfkuri]

You HATE me, But I HATE You more: ch.5

(sorry for the long wait. I hope this chapter was worth the wait. Comments are most welcome)

Today at Skool, Zim couldn’t help but notice all the other students were talking about “Prom” And who they were going to ask to go with them or what they were going to wear.

At first Zim just assumes its just some useless Urthling ritual… but than he hears something about “Prom king, and prom Queen” 

Curious, Zim pulled out a small device from his pack and searches through the human database to figure out what exactly the prom king is, and to his delight, it seems like becoming Prom king could help him rule the Skool and possibly even the whole Urth!

Zim begins to laugh, but he's interrupted when Dib suddenly appears behind him.

“Just what are you up to now?” Dib asks, narrowing his eyes at the alien.

 Zim nearly jumps before quickly moving away, putting distance between them.

“Why, I'm just SO curious about this, PROM thing that everyone is talking about” Zim says, but Dib doesn't seem to take this very well.

“Oh no you don't Zim. You are NOT going to ruin my chances to take Plotty to the prom!” This disgusts Zim.

“That PLOTTY-human is just mind controlling you, Dib! She's making you too stupid to see it”

“Whatever Zim, I'm taking Plotty to the prom and I'm not letting you ruin this for me” Dib says says before walking away. Zim glares, furious. 

“Ugh! Stupid Dib! Why does he still insist on being around that Plotty!? I already told him about her mind control, but he just refuses to listen to me…!” Zim grumbles, wishing he could choke the other boy until his eyes popped out, but even if he did, Dib would probably still insist on being around that GIRL....

Suddenly, Zim feels his chest tighten and something sickly in his belly. He quickly scans himself with his device again, but once more, his vitals appeared to be normal like usual.

Just what had Dib done to him?? Was it some kind of undetectable human poison???

Sitting at his desk, Dib vaguely listens to his history teacher while he watches the sky through the window, trying not to fall asleep… but he dozed off anyway.

It's not of any particular memories, but Dib dreams about being 12 again, trying to catch Zim and stop his evil plans… Things really aren't like that anymore, are they?

Zim has become a lot less focused on conquering the earth and more so just harassing him. And Dib on the other hand has nearly put his paranormal investigations to the side to focus on High Skool and just be… a normal teenager.

“Dib.”

“Nh….”

“Dib…!”

“Zim…??” Lifting his head from his desk, Dib groggily opens his eyes, only to realize the person in front of him is his teacher, looking none too pleased with his recent nap.

“Dib, I'll excuse you this time, but if you fall asleep in class again, I'll have to report you,” She says.

“Y-Yes ma’am,” Dib replies, not wanting his dad to hear another word about his misdemeanors at Skool again.

He sighs, wishing he was home right now, feeling kind of depressed after that dream.

When he looks out the window, he realizes it started to rain while he had been asleep. It's a good thing he's always prepared… Zim on the other hand, did not come prepared.

Since there hadn't been any rain, Zim forgot to bathe in his paste this morning.

Once Skool was over, everyone grabbed their umbrellas, and those who forgot to bring their own either had a friend to share with or made a mad dash home.

Zim nervously stared at the rain. It was a week ago that he applied his paste, but maybe it would still be effective?? He sticks a finger out only to quickly retract it, feeling it burn from just a single drop of rain.

Zim cursed under his breath, wishing he had never believed a human weather-man, as clearly, the sky wasn't as sunny as predicted.

Unfortunately, however, while standing around, one of the students decided to have some fun and shoved Zim down the small flight of stairs and into the rain. Zim hits the ground, feeling the small puddle of water forming on the concrete burn his skin, as well as the rest of the endless downpour falling from the sky. He screams and squirms around like a dying bug before managing to get up off the ground and under a tree.

This new shelter doesn't provide much cover, but it was better than nothing.

Feeling his body burn and blister, Zim holds himself tightly, damning this planet's water.

“W-Why does it hurt more than usual??? “ Did it have something to do with whatever Dib had done to him???

Excited to finally get home, Dib meets up with Gaz, telling her his amazing plan about sharing an umbrella with Plotty, but she doesn't seem that interested, instead, she seems more interested in a particular tree out by the front of the Skool.

“Gaz are you-” Dib stops mid-sentence, noticing a few of the students laughing, mimicking some kind of bug before pointing at the same tree Gaz was staring at. Then, it finally clicks. Zim is behind the tree.

Dib looks at the tree for a moment, but he can hear Plotty approaching with her friends… He looks back towards the tree again, thinking about his recent dream…

“Hey, Gaz… I'll meet you back home. Tell Dad I’m running late.” 

“Alright…” Gaz says, and just like that, Dib takes off toward the tree without saying another word. She watches and smiles ever so slightly, approving of her brother’s decision.

“What's wrong Space boy? Did your robot eat all your paste again??” Dib laughs, mocking the green boy. Zim glares, furious, especially because Gir actually wasn't at fault this time.

“Silence, Dib-worm!! I-” Before Zim can continue, Dib suddenly holds out his umbrella over his head. Zim’s body instantly feeling relief from the rain with the new shelter.

“Unlike you MIGHTY Irkens, I can handle the rain,” Dib says, letting himself get completely soaked by the rain.

Zim glares at him, feeling something sickly and squirmy in his stomach again, so he shoves Dib to the ground after taking the umbrella.

“You- Do not mock the Irken empire!!” Zim says, but Dib just laughs.

“D-Do not laugh at Zim!!” 

“I’ll stop laughing when you're MIGHTY empire isn't affected by a little water” “Dib teases, standing back up to his feet. 

Pissed, Zim begins to make his way home, but he's annoyed further when Dib follows him.

“Do not follow Zim! Just because you gave me this water shield device, does not mean I will allow you into my base!” Zim hisses.

“It's an umbrella. And yeah, I know… but if I don't walk back with you I won't get my umbrella back, and I'm pretty sure Dad’ll be mad if I lose another umbrella” Dib says, walking beside Zim.

Zim grumbles, but its when Dib suddenly sneezes that Zim practically jumps like a cat and backs away from him, his back hitting the wooden fence beside him.

“G-GERMS!!!”

“It was just a sneeze Zim” Dib says, hoping the alien won't come back to Skool covered in weird burger meat again.

“But….so….GERMY!”

“Zim-!” Dib sneezes again and Zim screams.

“D-don't come any closer to Zim!!” Zim says, most likely threatening to kick Dib if he didn't listen.

“Geez, alright” Dib, not wanting any more injuries, agrees to keep his distance, rolling his eyes.

While they continue the rest of the walk in silence, Dib starts to shiver and can't help but wish he had just walked Plotty home, then he would still be dry and wouldn't be freezing his butt off for the ungrateful alien.

Zim on the other hand, was somewhat pleased that Dib was antagonizing him again instead of drooling over that stupid GIRL, even if he WAS annoying.

He looks at Dib for a moment, soaking wet as he gets pelted by the rain, then he looks down at the umbrella handle in his hands, and his stomach feels sick again, but this time, his chest tightens.

Thanks to this device, his body was already dry and his pack had healed his body from the rain, but Dib was just a weak and pathetic human, so his temperature had gradually dropped while in the rain… and despite that, he still gave away his water shield device to him.

Zim, staring at the ground intensely, steps close enough to Dib, allowing the umbrella to cover them both. Confused and even shocked, Dib looks at him with a bewildered expression. 

“U-unlike you STUPID humans, I, A MIGHTY Irken, can recover quickly from such rain…! So… Zim shall share…. BUT DON'T EVER SPEAK OF THIS AGAIN!!!” Zim says, his face suddenly feeling warmer than usual.

Dib just stares at him, and blinks a few times… because he had to be seeing things right? There was no way Zim was… blushing right now…right???

“I-I won't, promise…” Dib says, but when he wipes away the water from his glasses, Zim was already looking away…

He must have just been seeing things earlier. He’s pretty sure Zim isn’t even capable of blushing.

The walk home is still silent, but Dib's been able to somewhat dry off a little bit by staying out of the rain, and thankfully, the rain finally starts to let up as Zim’s house comes into view.

As usual; upon his arrival, Zim’s ROBO Parents welcome him home, as well as Gir from the kitchen..

Dib couldn't help but lean over, feeling nostalgic at the sight of the house, as well as the smell of freshly made waffles coming from the kitchen.

Zim freezes, his antennas practically sticking out of his wig when Dib’s chest presses against his face. The dampness of the shirt burns, but that's not why Zim’s face was burning up, his heart racing, as if desperate for oxygen.

“Y-Y-You're mission is over!! N-Now be gone with you!!” Zim says, shoving Dib onto the pavement, and tossing him the umbrella back before quickly slamming the door behind him. His heart was pounding so quickly, he thought his chest might burst, and his face felt so hot, he felt like he had been baking in the sun, not to mention the weird flippy feeling in his belly.

“T-This is simply not normal!!”

“Aww, what's wrong master??” Gir asks.

“ T-That Dib….h-he 's done something to me!! H-he’s planted a bomb inside me or something!!” Gir cheers in delight, wishing he himself could explode.

“Q-Quite Gir! T-Tests! I need to run more tests!” Zim says before he rushes to the lab, running various tests on himself, and typing in all the strange symptoms he's been experiencing. He runs everything through the computer, hoping to get a proper diagnosis this time.

“Calculation complete. Results. You are in love with the Dib creature.”

“What!? There must be some kind of mistake!! I can't love! I'm Irken!! A-And Dib is the enemy!!” Zim says, feeling his face heat up and his chest swell, almost as if his own body was disagreeing with him.

“According to Irken history. Love is not impossible for the Irken empire, it is simply just irrelevant. Though unused, Irkens still retain their required bodily organs for reproductive purposes in case the Irken Empire should ever reach dangerously low numbers resulting in near extinction.” The computer exclaims, horrifying its master.

“T-This can't be…!! I-I can't possibly be in love with Dib….!! I… I HATE him!!” Zim says, as if declaring war with the universe, and maybe even himself.

[tpwkwriter]

i recently started reaading ur writing and boy it is lovely and sooooo cute!!!! so i would like to request Y/n being terrified of thunderstorms and harry comforting her, have a good dayyyy <3

Your too sweet thank you so much lovely<3, I hope this fic is what you hoped for🩷

Warnings: cussing and thats it.

—————————astraphobia———————————

The weather in England was almost predictable most of the the time.

Rain.

And more rain.

Y/n didn’t have an issue with rain, it gave her an excuse to stay cosy in bed but thunder, thunder was something she was sure she couldn’t get used too.

As a child thunder meant losing electricity and being in the dark and as a young child that was something that shaped her.

Y/n felt so silly being her big age and still frightened of some noises from the sky, but it was something she was eager to work on but struggled each time.

Y/n was staying over Harry’s one night and despite the weather being slightly foggy, a thunderstorm at 2am was unexpected.

Y/n shot up at the sound of a large “bang” outside followed by the sound of harsh winds against the window pane.

“Fucking shit” she whispered under her breath.

She turned to Harry who seemed to be ever so snug under the duvet, eyes still closed and the sound of soft snores followed ever so lightly.

Y/n envied his possibility to just be able to just to sleep through anything, she really wanted him to wake up and bundle in his arms while he tells her it’s gonna be okay, however with his recent workload and knowing how exhausted he’s been these past few days, she decided against it.

Instead she snuggled up to his exposed back under the cover and slung an arm over his dainty waist, feeling once again cosy and warm, however that didn’t make the scary noises go away.

The sound caused her to hide her head further into his back.

“S’not often y’big spoon love” Harry sleepily muttered out putting his hands on ontop of hers.

“Did the storm wake you up?” Y/n asked innocently.

“That and the fact m’girl seems to be clinging on for dear life” he hummed.

“No complaints tho” he added.

Another rumble hit the sky.

“Fuck” she flinched, again snuggling further into him.

“Baby?” He asked realisation clicking in.

Without another word he moved his body to face y/n, putting on palm on her cheek and resting his forehead on hers.

“It’s silly I know”

“S’not if your scared of it” he hums.

“I’m 25 and scared of a thunderstorm”

“And” he answered

“It’s embarrassing”

This time a strike of lightning hit the sky causing a light to flash across the window.

And y/n retreated and fell straight into him, causing him to lay on the bed with y/n on his chest.

“Oh baby” he practically purred, running his hands through her hair.

“Your okay, y’fine” he reassures.

He pulls up the duvet to her shoulders making sure she was engulfed both by him and warmth.

“Y’think y’can try and get back to sleep?” He hums into her ear.

“Think so”

“Just relax, f’me”

Y/n immediately relaxes into his embrace, and focuses her mind on his heartbeat and the pattering of rain against the concrete outside.

“Doing Great lovie, so so proud of you”

The girl who was once tense was now relaxed and eyes were slowly drooping as time went on.

“I love you angel, so so much, y’always safe always, nothing could happen to you, not when I’m here ever”

——————————————————————————

[alovesreading]

'tis the damn season | Part 2

Summary: Christmas has been your favourite season since you met Ross MacDonald back in Year 9 when you had just moved to Wilmslow, coincidentally on the same road as him. He becomes your very best friend for the rest of high school, but when that ends, life happens and you just can't stop it. And life is certainly cruel to you and Ross. Every December is a reminder of it, somehow always bringing a chance to ruin things even more. After so many mistakes, how can you get back the times you've always cherished with the silly boy with the dimpled smile?

Word count: 12.7k

Warnings: the tiniest bit of angst.

A/N: Here it is! I hope this one makes up for that first part lolllll. Will warn you that there's a sprinkle of angst at the beginning though... Don't kill me *runs and hides* Anyway, enjoy!!!!!

Masterlist

Part 1

✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧

“Shit,” you curse under your breath when his words hit you harder than the cold winds of December.

But maybe it’s the realisation that you just know nothing about him anymore that hits you even harder than what he has just said or the cold weather.

Entirely aware of how bad it can look, you pout up at him and add with heavy sorrow for him, “Oh Ross, I’m sorry. I had no idea.”

“S’alright,” Ross says with a shrug like it is nothing.

Your brows furrow, half in worry he’s bottling everything up and half in awe of the way he can cope so well with the situation—you know you could never do it.

After last year’s horrendous holiday break, when you were on your way up to Wilmslow, you had decided on making things right by everyone this year. End 2009 the right way and go into the new year with the joy of grasping onto normalcy back in a place you held dear.

It certainly did help that you have your boyfriend coming back home with you. Not alone anymore, and feeling the deep excitement for him to meet everyone you loved so much in Wilmslow.

That’s why as soon as you had managed to escape your parents and settled everything down in your room, you left your boyfriend to settle down while you ran down the stairs and up the road until you reached Ross’ house.

You certainly hadn’t expected him to turn down your idea of a double date of sorts because he and Katie weren’t together anymore. You thought that when he said he wasn’t sure it could be done, it meant you would have to make a bit more of an effort to get Ross’ friendship back.

You’re deflated by the news, thinking about how sad you are that the gifts you had gotten Katie would not make it to her in the end.

“Who’s he then?” Ross asks with a raise of his brows, bringing you back out from your thoughts.

Your mouth opens as you try to answer, but you stupidly stutter before giving him a vague answer, “Oh, erm, a classmate.”

It isn’t like you’ve come here to dump about your relationship though, and the idea of pouring facts about your boyfriend seems like poor taste after what Ross has just told you. But Ross is kind and you know he’s asking because you obviously were excited for him to meet him if you had come here to suggest going out on a double date.

It is your turn to be kind to him after two years of ruining shit with your stupidity so you let him get out of it by letting him know, “I’ve asked Matty and he said it was fine if I brought him by on Boxing day so I guess you’ll meet him properly then.”

“Right,” he nods first, but when a beat of silence goes by, he adds, “Sure.” His lips are pressed tightly together, the corners of his mouth barely lift up when he tries to fake enthusiasm as he finally adds, “Can’t wait.”

You can’t keep to yourself the shock, or better said, it’s easy for your mum to get what you’ve just found out due to how awful you feel for reminding Ross of his recent breakup, one you had no idea about.

And another thing you’ve got no idea about is that, after you tell your mum how bad you feel about what had just happened, she called Ross’ mum and invited her over for Christmas dinner the following day.

A truly horrible idea that you scold your mum about when she tells you about it the morning of the 25th.

“Mum, what?! How’s it gonna help him to have dinner with us when he’s just broken up with Katie?!”

Of course, your mother is oblivious to what you mean, “He’s gonna have company! All of us together will make him happy!”

Unfortunately, you can’t explain what had happened the past two years, the way you had behaved, and how it seems incredibly unfair to have him have Christmas dinner with you and your boyfriend in the room.

So, to try and fix the mess your mum has unknowingly made, you take it upon yourself to make sure dinner doesn’t end up in a situation like the previous two years.

You keep the pda with your boyfriend to the minimum, make sure to include Ross in every conversation—basically spend most of the time boasting about the guys’ band to your boyfriend—, and keep asking Ross and his parents all about how they’re doing.

Ross is smiling and participating in conversation, which you really appreciate and you relax a bit halfway through dinner when noticing that Ross is doing far better than you had ever done with Katie.

And it’s then that guilt starts creeping back up.

But the thing that you don’t know is that Ross is just good at acting and putting on a smile, because seeing your boyfriend’s hand on your thigh all throughout dinner and the way he takes every opportunity he can to kiss your cheek, is killing him.

Ross gets it then. He gets why it had been so hard for you to keep your feelings to yourself back when you met Katie. Because he can feel that horrendous burn rising up his throat, burning in his chest every glance that he takes at you and sees that the reason for every smile and giggle is the lad beside you.

You have always had a hard time not letting your every thought show on your expression, Ross took the piss about it so often, though he really appreciated it because it meant he always knew what was going through your head.

However, he had the ability to hide everything behind a blank face or a half smile and not be questioned about it.

Exactly like in this very moment when he’s half smiling into his cup of cider as both your parents—as if they hadn’t met him already when they went down to London during summer break—and his parents grill your boyfriend with loads of questions that the poor bloke stutters to answer most of the time.

His fingers clutch the cup tighter every time he hears him call you baby, and he dies a bit more inside when he sees your boyfriend mumble “I love you,” in your ear when you come to his defence after your dad makes a stupid joke about him that has you gasping.

“Love you too,” you reciprocate and give him a quick peck to which everyone coos.

Everyone but Ross.

Ross, who settles you are both even now, who tries washing down the bitter taste of jealousy with more cider until your dad brings out a bottle of whiskey and opens it for everyone to enjoy, and it is then that the bassist starts gulping down the dark alcohol with an ease that your dad jokes about.

What he doesn’t know is that it burns every time Ross takes a gulp back, his throat raw and aching, but the feeling is just strong enough to overcome the horrendous way seeing you this happy and in love makes him feel.

Such an idiot, Ross thinks about himself. He’s an absolute fucking fool.

And then, your mum is calling it’s time for Christmas pictures and when you and your boyfriend go first and the first time your mum presses the shutter is when your boyfriend kisses you under the mistletoe, Ross can’t take it any longer and he excuses himself to walk back home alone.

It isn’t until he has thrown himself on his bed, groaning about how he feels like he’s gonna be sick all over his sheets, that he realises he’s walked out before even getting a picture with you.

Ross falls asleep thinking he needs to make it up to you on Boxing day when you bring your boyfriend over to Matty’s.

“Hope she isn’t too much of a handful,” George jokes when they all fall into easy conversation and banter with your boyfriend.

“She’s a good handful,” your boyfriend jokes, letting his hand fall down to your ass and squeezing it with eager fingers.

You gasp and push him off you while he cackles loudly, the room follows along. A choir of laughter around the place from the lads and their own girlfriends, though the deep rich laughter from Ross is missing.

Your gaze sweeps the room until it falls on him and you give him an apologetic smile. He offers you a tight lip grin and a shake of his head, like he’s trying to say it’s okay.

Nothing really is because with every minute that passes and he sees how well your boyfriend gets along with everyone, Ross dies a little inside. And, in spite of how lovely Boxing day is going, he can’t find himself enjoying the togetherness like he usually does.

An invitation is made for your boyfriend to join you for the gig the band is playing at a pub in Manchester tomorrow night.

Enthusiastically, you both accept and when you go back home, you can’t stop smiling at the prospect of these two sides of your life merging with an ease that makes your heart swell.

You’re early to the gig, since you had convinced your boyfriend to take the chance to go around Manchester before you were due at the pub to see your friends, and you chat with the boys as they set up in a makeshift stage.

At the start of December, their manager Jamie had founded Dirty Hit, a label of his own so he could finally sign the band himself.

You are so unbelievably proud of your boys, tears well up your eyes watching them perform flawlessly on that stage: smiling so hard at Matty’s passion when singing, the funny faces George has always made when playing the drums, the clever riffs Adam managed to play easily and, of course, the suave Ross had when playing that bass.

You, amongst the almost sixty people in that pub, are entranced by them and you sing along the songs you’ve witnessed being written, put together and practised throughout the years.

When they play ‘Robbers’, you can’t help but cry. The memories it brings to you are so overwhelming, your boyfriend ends up hugging you from behind to soothe you as you sing along to the incredible lyrics Matty had somehow come up with at 18, the summer before you went off to university, when everything was alright.

Ross catches a glimpse of you and his heart aches when seeing the tears rolling down your face. The hurt only gets stronger when your boyfriend is the one to wipe them off your cheeks.

He brings his gaze forward again but when he’s unable to clear his thoughts by focusing on a stranger’s face, he lets his head hang and his eyes fall on his fingers playing the strings of his bass.

The same one he had shown off to you the first time you had gone to his house on Boxing day and you stayed there, perched on his bed as you watched him show off his skills on the instrument.

Ross isn’t sure then how much longer he can cope with this, seeing you smitten with somebody else, craving their touch and not his, needing their company and not his.

He’s so relieved when you go back home with your boyfriend after the gig, swiftly getting yourself out of a night of drinks with the guys since you have plans for the next morning that you can’t get out of.

The hangover Ross nurses the following day is entirely worth it for he managed to drown his sorrows with alcohol without being questioned about it, he hid it behind being overly enthusiastic about a new year with a now signed band, the one thing they had been dreaming since they properly formed the band in 2002.

But it doesn’t matter that he had managed to conceal his real feelings and intentions behind drinking that night, for when New Year’s Eve comes around, he’s entirely transparent as he knocks back glass after glass from the moment you arrive at Matty's.

Unlike a year ago, it is time for Ross to get plastered since he’s totally incapable of coping with you being all over your boyfriend now that alcohol is in your system and, since you’ve seen Ross’ reactions for the past few days and you have assumed the bassist is entirely fine with everything, you don’t have to hold back anymore.

For a miraculous change, George is the one to take care of Ross when midnight approaches and he just can’t stay in the room to watch what he knows will happen the second the countdown reaches one.

Ross’ body reacts on its own when he hears the room he’s left erupt in a chorus of “Happy New Year!” and he rushes to the nearest bathroom to be sick when the ruckus of greetings change for one of whistles and teasing, a confirmation that you’re definitely kissing your boyfriend like you had kissed Ross all those years ago.

Hiding away in the bathroom, Ross spends the rest of the night there, sitting against the door and ignoring every knock and attempt of opening it.

He wakes up passed out on the bathroom floor the next morning, wishing he had drunk even more to forget why he had been drinking to begin with. But not even drinking more would’ve helped with him avoiding seeing you and your boyfriend cuddling on one of the settees when he walks out to leave the Healy's house.

When you come knocking on his door later that day, he groggily answers the door. Your goodbye hits him like a gut punch but, despite being sad about seeing you go, he can’t help being a little relieved his chest doesn’t have to ache to the sight of you in love anymore.

At least not until next Christmas.

✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧

Around May of 2010 you graduated university.

That nightmare was finally over and the only good thing that had come out of it other than your degree, and the fact that you managed to land a job before graduating, was that you weren’t alone anymore.

Your mum and dad went down to London for the ceremony and it brought tears to your eyes to see them in the crowd as you walked onto the stage to get your diploma. Loads of pictures had been taken and though you felt elated, overflowing with joy, it wasn’t until you finally had time to check your phone and see the messages your friends from back home had sent you that you felt complete.

Adam’s message had made you coo and tear up, whilst George and Matty’s messages made you laugh like an idiot. Ross’ message had made you smile nostalgically, a tear slipping down your cheek when you had read it again.

Cannot believe you’re graduating today, sweetheart. So incredibly proud of you :)) You were always the smartest one of us after all. Hope you’re having the best time celebrating yourself today, you’re fucking brilliant Y/N/N. Love you lots, see you soon I hope xx

Truth was, your parents had invited him along but he had declined, excusing it on work and something band related that your mum and dad didn’t ask too much about. Still, they were sad they couldn’t surprise you with Ross’ presence on such a big day.

Ross had really regretted his decision when you posted a bunch of pictures of your graduation day to your Facebook page. Though, the ones where your boyfriend was right next to you reminded him just why he had said no.

He was a coward, he wouldn’t deny it if he were to be called out for it but he was doing it for the best of the situation, for the best of your friendship—or at least to the bits of it that still lingered to which he was holding onto tightly.

Because somehow, despite how the last Christmas time had turned out for himself, Ross found himself holding onto the hope that everything would be alright this year when you came back home for the holidays. And there was a little annoying voice inside his head that laughed at himself for it, but he was holding onto you desperately, like water in his hands, hoping you wouldn’t slip fully through his fingers.

So he had held on and on, day after day, onto that hope until December was around the corner and when a text of yours came through to the group chat you had with the guys, that hope plummeted down and shattered on the floor.

Guys I’ll be spending the holidays in London so please don’t worry about a present for me this year. I promise I will make this up to you very soon!! Miss yous so much and love yous even more!! xx

The first feeling that shows is sadness. Ross frowns, reading your message over and over, his heart sinking and settling on the pits of his stomach as despair overcomes him. He really had spoiled the only chance he would get this year of seeing you, just because he hadn’t really wanted to see you with your boyfriend again.

But now, all he can think is that he’s willing to endure that horrendous jealousy and anguish just to see you again. And he’s especially desperate because it's Christmas! It’s your time of the year, your and Ross’ time, or at least that’s what it had always been until 2007.

Ross wants to pull his hair out of his head then, not only dreading having to spend this season without even seeing you from afar, but just from being reminded of how this will be the fourth year in a row where something has happened and shaken the dynamic you had shared and cherished since 2002.

And then, nosy Matty asks why you’re staying in London because it’s certainly very rude of you to abandon your best friends in the entire world to spend the holidays in the south—that’s exactly what the curly headed boy sends on the group chat.

Which prompts you to answer with a string of laughing emojis and then the truth: you’re spending the holidays with your boyfriend’s family this year.

Reading that message is what turns Ross’ sadness into anger in a split second.

Because you’re breaking the promise you had made before you left for uni, the promise you had swore to never break when Sara, Danielle, and Jodie eventually did.

Hope is gone. A tiny lit flame that has just been blown out and there’s nothing left of it but the string of smoke rising up into the air.

Ross knows this is it then, the end of it all.

He could’ve never predicted it would take eight years to lose you entirely, and he sort of wishes he could warn his past self so he could shield himself from anything he could develop for you when you first met.

He chucks his phone somewhere on his bed, fully ignoring any other messages coming into the group chat afterwards.

Nothing mattered anymore.

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It certainly is a shock to see you walking out of the house when Ross is walking back to his from the shops.

Matty had sent him out to buy decorations for the New Year’s Eve party because, suddenly, he decides the party needs to be a proper one with decorations and props and cone hats and silly 2012 shaped glasses that definitely don’t look feasible to look through.

So he’s toying with the frame of one of the glasses, thinking about how quickly 2011 has gone by, when he sees you walking out of your house with a skip in your step.

Since there was no message on the group chat, he didn’t really know if you were coming back home or not.

Not that he cared.

At least, that’s what Ross had been telling himself.

But it’s clear he indeed cared because when your eyes fall on him and a gorgeous smile breaks on your face, there’s a hint of relief that floods his system.

“Ross! Hey!” You are wary of the distance that’s there between you, not only physically because he’s still yet to cross the road towards you but also emotionally because you two haven’t spoken at all in the entirety of the year.

Well, you had if the short birthday messages you sent the other counted.

“Hi, Y/N. Y’alright?” he finally asks when he crosses the road and stands just a few metres away from you.

You nod, “Amazing. You?”

“Pretty good.”

You hum because he doesn’t sound so sure about it. Your eyes fall on the bag in his hand, catching the look of the New Year’s themed goods.

“Those look nice. Matty’s decorating this year?”

Ross chuckles softly, “Yes, apparently the party needs to be proper from now on.”

You snort at that and roll your eyes at the image of Matty saying that in your head. He was so annoying, you truly adored him. “Ha, right. Well, I’ll see you then!”

Wow what a good lengthy chat, Ross thought sarcastically. Still, he didn’t let how that made him feel show. With a soft smile, he nods and says, “See ya’,” before resuming his walk and making it back home.

He makes a great effort not to look down the road to see where you’re heading. That quick, awkward chat is enough to know where you stand and in what state your friendship is. Gone.

Ross comes to terms with the fact that it just will never be the same. It’s all gone: you, the holidays you’ve grown to love, all the traditions that only entailed the two of you.

It hurts his chest and he wonders if it hurts yours as well.

He doesn’t even see you the day after, on the 25th. There’s nothing delivered to his house—your mum had done it the year before, but the lack of it this year meant the official loss of that tradition—and since your boyfriend and his family are over at yours, or so Ross’ mum told him, the MacDonalds leave your family to it and don’t interrupt by sending anything over to your house.

The next time Ross sees you is at Matty’s on Boxing day, which goes as smoothly as it can. It’s only refreshing to have the rest of the boys there along with their girlfriends, and little Louis Healy is a funny distraction from the turmoil that clouds Ross’ brain when in the same room as you and your boyfriend.

When New Year’s Eve comes, alcohol makes for that miraculous distraction instead, but this time he’s more careful about it. Not blacking out but, instead, numbing himself with every drink until the countdown happens and seeing you and your boyfriend sharing a passionate kiss doesn’t make him want to run into oncoming traffic.

You leave on the 3rd of January this time, giving your boyfriend’s family and your own time to enjoy the start of the year together.

This time, when Ross answers the front door after hearing incessant knocking and he sees you standing there with a soft smile and a goodbye on the tip of your tongue, saying goodbye back feels more significant.

As he says goodbye, still half hiding behind the door, it feels like he’s bidding farewell to your friendship and all you two ever were.

What you never had been.

Ross wonders then if things would’ve been different if he had done something about the two of you when he kissed you under the mistletoe in 2006, how you two could be in such a different place if he had made a move after kissing you when the clock struck midnight at the very start of 2007.

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The first week of August 2012, the first official music project by the band came out. It was a bit odd knowing the boys had an official name now, but The 1975 sounded fucking brilliant—you had assured Matty of it when he sent you a picture of it freshly tattooed below his Mortal Kombat tattoo saying that he had gotten the new name tattooed so he wasn’t allowed to change his mind anymore.

You had gone to the closest HMV to your office and bought the CD, sending a picture of it to the guys on your group chat and gushing over how fucking good it was after you had listened to it four times in one sitting.

And you had gone just as crazy when November rolled around and on the 19th the Sex EP came out. A quick message was sent in the middle of your short lunch break, you’d written it with the biggest smile on your face.

Holy shit guys, that was incredible!!!! I’m so unbelievably proud of yous :’’)) Who would’ve thought you’d go from changing your band name every other month to having two stunning EPs out!!! I need yous to sign my new CD!! Cannot wait to see you brilliant, talented lot on Christmas. Love youuuuu!!! xxxxx

It was odd that after all that time, Ross could still hear your voice in his head saying all that while he read it. Like he just can’t truly let go of you, and a flicker of hope that still lives inside him then becomes obvious, he can’t help but think, maybe, just maybe, you won’t miss Christmas at home this year like he’s been expecting you to all year long.

It felt almost like he had been holding his breath since that notion became apparent in his mind, the anticipation of not really knowing if his hopes were gonna lead him to be disappointed or if he would actually be right.

Ross lets out a sigh of relief when he walks out of his house and he catches a glimpse of you walking in through the front door of your parent’s house with a bag in hand.

He’s not aware of what he’s doing until his quick strides lead him all the way up to your front door and he’s harshly knocking on it.

You’ve barely been able to shout hello to your mum, who’s upstairs, and let your dad take your bag up to your room when you’re startled by the knocking.

Turning around on your heels, it’s merely two steps you take until you can grab the handle and turn it to open the door and show a speechless and surprisingly enthused Ross bundled up in a cosy flannel coat and a beanie, the tip of his nose tinting pink from the cold, and his cheeks matching the shade.

Your eyes widen at the sight of him. You have no idea why he’s just standing here, how on Earth he had managed to know exactly when you would arrive or if he had been expecting you, but you can’t stop the need to feel him closer than this the second you see him.

Basically throwing yourself into him, you gasp and wrap your arms around his waist, his arms coming to envelop you in a hug over your shoulders and you melt into him completely.

“Oh my god. I missed you so much,” you whisper into his ear.

His heart squeezes in his chest, leaving him weak enough to admit, “Me too. So much.”

He knows it’s not time for inquiries but he’s honestly taken aback by the fact that you’re here so his questions leave him without him wanting them to, “Are you okay? How’s London treating you? How’s your boyfriend, is he spending it here again?”

Those are heavy questions, lots to explain that just leave you without a word to utter. Except for the last question. That situation’s status was clear enough that you pull back and take a deep breath to be able to answer through the pain of thinking about it, “No. Ermm, we broke up.”

“I’m sorry, I didn’t–,” Ross starts apologising but when he sees your chin start to wobble and tears filling your eyes, he pulls you back into him as he says, “Don’t cry, C’mere.”

“It’s all my fault,” you can’t help but admit. Not really about the breakup, that was certainly not your fault if you looked at the bigger picture, but the horrendous pain that fills you when you think about how your attempts to fill the emptiness from being away from home had crumbled down and left you feeling even lonelier than ever. You shake with a sob in Ross’ arms and admit, finally, “I hid so much from you guys.”

The confusion in his breathy, “What?” is clear and you know this is the right moment to just come clean about everything, before this opportunity leaves you like a train does a station.

“Do you…” you sniffle as you pull back to look at him.

God, you must look like a mess and a right idiot. Ross thinks that despite how his heart is breaking seeing you this upset, he’s never seen a person more beautiful.

“Do you wanna come in?” you suggest, thumb pointing behind you into a house he hasn’t stepped foot inside since Christmas day 2009, 3 years ago. “I feel like I owe you a lot of truths.”

Carefully, he nods and that’s when you put your hand out for him to hold and walk into the house.

Electricity runs to his fingertips where he holds you, painfully aware of how your absence has made your proximity now erupt a wave of feelings inside him that he had thought were gone.

Once he’s inside the house, you close the door. He expects you to guide him to the living room but, to his surprise, you take him up the stairs and into your room.

Even your dad is surprised to see Ross in the house after all this time for he stops in his tracks when he sees the now very tall lad walking hand in hand with you on the way to your room, which he’s leaving after leaving your bag neatly on top of your bed.

“Oh hello, Ross. Missed seeing you around here, kid.”

Ross smiles but before he can respond to your dad’s greeting, you speak out, “Thanks for helping me with the bag dad. I’m gonna chat with Ross for a bit if you don’t mind.”

Your dad notices the tears in your eyes then, with the slight waver of your voice so he knows this is a serious matter and he nods, giving you both a smile before walking past you into his room where your mum’s still hiding. She must be really entertained with what she’s doing since she hasn’t run to your room to crush you in a hug like she always does, but you won’t complain right now because it seems like everything is about to spill out of your mouth.

Closing your room’s door behind you, Ross makes his way into your room when you drop his hand. He sits at the edge of your bed and you do the same, looking into his eyes for a second before letting your gaze drop to your lap, where you fiddle with your fingers nervously.

A sigh leaves you.

This is it then.

Looking back up at him, you take in his worried expression and start telling him everything. How you knew university would be hard from the very second you moved into your dorm. How you had been so horribly homesick, you got depressed and had to talk to a therapist on campus for quite a while. The amount of times you had thought of dropping out throughout the first year, but had refused to come back home empty handed and regretting giving up when you have always been academically driven.

And how, despite your efforts, the second year had been just as bad.

You couldn’t make friends but not by lack of trying, it was harsher in uni to find people you felt in tune with when everyone was so focused on themselves and the groups established there were far more stronger than in high school; so many people knew each other from school already, it felt like trying to be friends with them was causing a disturbance to their friendships.

And then you came back to London from Wilmslow, that time Ross had told you to go back and you had left right after the gift exchange at Matty’s, and you met this guy. He gave you just the amount of attention and kindness to lure you in and grow attached to him after craving proper human connection for so long.

He had become your boyfriend easily, because he gave you attention and made you feel needed, despite both of those notions having meant in a sexual way more times than not.

It wasn’t the best relationship and you knew that, but you would take anything, even if faulty, just to not feel alone like you had the two previous years again.

So you made due with what you had and fell in love with him, though you knew he didn’t feel the same as you did, and if he ever did say it was just because he wanted to keep you. For convenience really, because if he said he wanted you, you would drop anything for him, even if you didn’t want to say yes, you did because you feared being left alone.

And then he realised he could make you stay by reminding you how badly you had been going through it before he appeared into your life, and now you could point out how emotionally manipulative he had been, but right then, it had gone right past your head.

That was why it had been so easy for him to cheat before you two graduated, and it had been even easier for him to get you to forgive him. He would say you wouldn’t survive without him, without his love, without his presence in your life; he reminded you just how far away everyone was, how you had lied and kept things to yourself so no one worried and how selfish of you it would be to call and talk about yourself and your issues which you could resolve easily, just by forgiving him and taking him back.

So like a brainless fool, you did.

And then you graduated and you moved in with him, and though you had a job of your own, he convinced you to do everything for him. His kisses, the sex, the cuddles, him making time for you, it all was your reward. Showing you affection had become a reward for you keeping the flat clean, cooking meals and paying half the rent, it had become something to exchange for your efforts rather than something that came with a loving relationship.

You knew he had cheated at least twice after that first time but kept quiet. You knew, but the only thing you could do was ask him to wear a condom every time you fucked, just because that was the last bit of love and concern you had for yourself.

That was until a few weeks before your birthday, when you got off work early because you were feeling a bit poorly and the feverish, dizzy feeling that overcame you was enough for your boss to send you home immediately.

It had been nothing compared to the feeling that washed over you when you quietly came into the flat and walked blindly down the hall to your bedroom, only to find your boyfriend balls deep in some girl.

Your horrified gasp and confused mumbling wasn’t enough for him to stop, instead he kicked you out of the room and you left running back to the living room where you stood almost dry heaving as you replayed the moment over and over again, wanting to be sick but not being brave enough to walk up to the bathroom with how close to the bedroom it was.

Still, he took a fair few minutes to come out of the bedroom and face you. From what you heard, you knew he hadn’t even taken the consideration to stop and had chosen to finish before he could even begin to explain what was going on.

Not that it needed explaining, really.

But it was the absolute lack of remorse in his face when he came out to the living room that brought you out of the hypnosis he had caught you in for so long. The fact that he hissed through his teeth why the fuck you had come home so early. The fact that he sounded more apologetic to the girl than to you, his girlfriend of three and a half years.

And it was the realisation that you would rather feel this hurt because of breaking up with him than because he was trying to convince you that it had been nothing and you could forgive him yet again.

So you did. You broke up with him that very second. Going to the bedroom, which made you feel even more disgustingly nauseous, you quickly packed everything you had there in a big suitcase you had thankfully kept. All that you had in there as best as you could and the rest shoved in a big bag of yours that didn’t fit inside the case.

You had felt more alone than ever, without your boyfriend—ex-boyfriend now—, without any friends because all of your friends had been his first and you knew he would manipulate them enough to make them switch on you the second they found out, without a roof to live under.

But you felt free, oddly, and it was that which drove you to call up one of your co-workers and ask for their help.

Emma was the sweetest and let you stay in her flat for the week and a half it took you to find a place you could rent. You hadn’t been exactly choosy with it, just going off necessity and settling for the better most convenient option, both for your pocket and the proximity to your job.

So you were now living in some shitty flat in a very unsafe area in London, but it was close to the tube station and it was only a thirty minute commute to your office, which you were growing to appreciate.

It was the fact that for the first time in a while you felt like your own person that made you smile on the daily.

And now the fact that you had finally come clean about everything to one of the most important people in your life.

Ross is speechless. He’s lost his breath with every bit that you’ve told him, and yet the way that you fully leave him stupefied and unable to breathe is the smile that you give him when you’re done with your story.

That toothy grin he has missed so much, accompanied with your tear stained cheeks and glassy eyes.

His heart is utterly broken for you, someone so beautiful inside and out being absolutely destroyed and mishandled by people who never appreciated you for who you truly are, stuck in a situation that you kept shut because you’re selfless like that.

Ross feels like his heart had been shattered in a million pieces, but he feels a new wave of heartache when he remembers how cruel and unfair he had been to you when, unbeknownst to him and everyone else, you were going through such a nightmare.

He wants to bang his head against a wall.

But not more than he wants to crush you in a hug and tell you it’ll be alright now.

So he does.

His arms feel heavenly around you, melting into his chest and hiding in his neck comes to you like second nature just how it had always been back then, before everything happened.

You can’t help but cry, and though some of your tears come from the ache in your chest, most of them are spilled because you feel relieved that you can shed yourself of the weight of everything that you’ve been keeping to yourself, relieved that you can mend things back home and you can try and get back those friendships you have always cherished.

Ross doesn’t let you go, not when you calm yourself down and stop crying, not when you yawn and rub your tired eyes, not when it starts getting dark out.

He’s hesitant to let you go when you go to move your bag out of your bed so you can lay down. But he follows when you pat the spot next to yours on the mattress.

His arms wrap around you and he pulls you closer to him. You two haven’t done this in so long, it’s hard to even point out when was the last time you cuddled, but your legs tangle with an ease that makes your heartbeats stutter.

With eyes fluttering as you two succumb to slumber, the last thing you remember before falling asleep is the feeling of Ross’ lips pressing on top of your head.

“I had missed this,” you admit groggily when you wake up to his fingers rubbing circles on your lower back.

The darkness of your room envelopes you like a blanket, pale moonlight sneaking through your blinds to give you the faintest bit of sight.

You can barely make out the dimples on his cheeks as he smiles down at you with a puffy face and sleepy eyes, “I missed you.”

Whole. That’s how you feel when he says that with a warm conviction that melts your insides. You hum, “Yeah. Me too.”

A knock on your door makes the two of you look in the direction of it, and slowly peeling it open, your mum peeks her head through to smile at you.

“Haven’t seen you like that in ages,” she recalls with a coo. “You two are so grown up now.”

You smile just by remembering the pictures your mum would take of the two of you cuddling on the settee after falling asleep watching a film. The nostalgia makes you wish she would take a picture right now just so you could compare it to them.

“Sorry to interrupt darlings, you two look cosy, but could you do me a favour?”

That’s how you end up at the shops with Ross, giggling as you walk through the aisles trying to find the things your mum had forgotten to get on her last shopping trip for tomorrow’s dinner.

It’s hard not to get distracted when you walk around, seeing all the Christmas sweets and treats, even harder when Ross makes you laugh as you go about the place and you keep forgetting what it is that you’re looking for.

“Hey, you better not forget these,” he jokes, grabbing a bag of potatoes that he ends up placing in your basket.

It’s hard hugging Ross goodbye after you come back from the shops and put everything away together, but it makes you so incredibly happy to know that it feels normal again—your arms around each other feel like finding your way back home after getting lost on the way.

You go to bed feeling content, the smell of him lingers on your pillows and you nuzzle your face on them with a loopy smile on your face.

It is when you wake up and go downstairs for breakfast that you properly feel giddy, though, because your mum tells you she called Ross’ mum and they had agreed to have Christmas dinner together.

A loud kiss is smacked on your mum’s cheek at the news and she smirks as she looks at your dad when you run to the kitchen to see if you had all the ingredients to make some type of dessert, leaving your coffee to get cold on the dining table.

Having the MacDonalds over is a joy, as per usual, with Ross’ mum being the loveliest person ever and Ross’ dad making you all laugh hysterically, dinner goes wonderfully.

Everything’s tasty, warm in your bellies and your hearts with the hours you all spend together. Nothing feels more right than this very moment.

And then your mum springs up her chair and calls, “Time for pictures!”

Just like you’ve known to do since the very first time, you and Ross move to the bottom of the stairs right beneath where your mum always hangs the mistletoe. The sight makes Ross smile brightly, his eyes crinkling at the edges and dimples pinching his cheeks beautifully.

Your mum frowns at her film count on display as she takes the camera close to her face, “I’ve got one in here, so I’ll take the first and then go get another pack of film to take the rest.”

You bite your tongue not to smile too brightly when it reminds you of a certain moment, years ago.

As your mum takes the camera up to her eyes, Ross wraps an arm tightly around your waist, fingers digging on your clothed flesh as he presses you flush to his side. You wrap an arm around his waist and just as you’re about to rest your head on his shoulder to pose for the camera, your heart begs you to do something else.

You turn to look at him and pucker your lips to press them on his cheek. Your mum captures just the moment bliss breaks out on his face, melting his smile into a parted mouth as he exhales a sigh in content at the feeling of your lips on his skin.

The second the whirring of the polaroid printing out sounds, you pull back and he peels his eyes open to look at you with adoration, or so you think from the way his brown eyes gleam as he looks into yours.

You have to separate when your mum walks in between you to run upstairs to get some more film, all the while she’s shaking the just printed picture in her hand.

Suddenly, Ross blinks and he’s back in 2006, when your mum was making a mess upstairs as she looked for a new pack of film and he finally got the courage to cup your face and actually kiss you under the mistletoe like he had been wanting for so long.

It’s a memory that flashes on both your minds in that moment, and it’s written all over your faces.

Your mouth parts in anticipation and he carefully brings up his hands to your face, holding it delicately as he starts leaning in.

It’s stupid, and maybe way too fast on his part but he can’t have you looking all beautiful standing in front of him and under the mistletoe and not kiss you. You’re magnetising and he can’t fight the power you have over him, he’s so entranced he just wants you close.

This time it is different, it feels more intense. Not desperate, because the second your lips meet in the middle, it’s not like you lose control and try to quicken the kiss. It just feels way more intent, it’s deliberate and with so much more meaning now. You have each other back and the pieces of the puzzle fall into place perfectly just like the slotting of your lips together.

You’re the one to deepen the kiss as your tongue pokes out to tease his bottom lip and you lick into his mouth when he parts it to welcome you.

A hum reverberates through his chest when you taste each other, and he swallows a soft moan that you let out at the feeling of his beard brushing against the soft skin of your face as you two move rhythmically in a kiss that leaves you dazed.

When Ross pulls back, your breaths mix as you pant out, lips so close together, noses brushing. He drops one last peck on your lips before saying, “Had to do it properly.”

Your mum’s footsteps echo through the hall as she dashes back downstairs with a new film pack in her camera, ready to snap away.

In the pictures you can clearly see your swollen wet lips, but no one comments on it when your mum lets you two see the results of the quick photoshoot she’s just thrown for the two of you. Heat rushes up to your face, just like Ross'. You almost wanna coo and pinch his cheeks at the sight of him flustered like that.

It’s fair to say you’re both incredibly smiley when you go back to the dining room to share hot chocolate and the cookies you had made earlier. You half regret not making the same ones you had made the year you had met Ross, but it’s all fine when Ross says, “Delicious as always, sweetheart.”

You wanna pounce on his lips when he finally goes back to calling you that again.

There’s no way you can stop your lips from falling into a pout when it’s time for Ross and his parents to go. You almost want to convince them to stay a bit longer but you already had and they’d stayed an additional hour than they’d planned.

Ross’ mum and dad hug you tightly, wishing you a merry Christmas and saying that they hope you like your present, as if you haven’t loved every single one they’ve ever given you throughout the years.

When it’s time for Ross to hug you, he makes it a show of almost crushing your bones as he does so. Swaying in your place, your parents laugh behind you as the two of you cling onto each other like you haven’t done in years.

Neither set of parents have it in them to tease or complain because they’ve missed witnessing it.

But perhaps, the biggest shock of all is that when Ross pulls back after wishing you a merry Christmas, he presses his lips on yours on a sweet chaste kiss that makes the four adults around you loudly gasp and, therefore, make you and Ross become flustered like a pair of kids caught holding hands in the playground.

And just like a kid, Ross peels himself away from you and quickly escapes back home with his parents following behind him, leaving you foolishly stunned and wide eyed.

When the front door finally closes, it is your mum saying, “Finally!” that makes you snap out of your trance.

The loopy smile stays on your face as you open presents, though.

Blindly, you pick up your phone when it rings on your bedside table the next morning. You don’t even read who it is as you answer it so your shock makes you open your eyes wide when you hear Ross’ voice on the other side of the line.

He says he’s been texting you to ask if you wanted to hang out, and truthfully you just wanna sleep in a little longer, but you also wanna have his presence.

Who says you couldn’t have both?

You let him know he can come over, whispering as you tell him to ring you when he’s outside because your house is quiet as your parents still sleep.

He surprises you when he says he’s already at your door.

With your eyes still heavy with sleep, you make it downstairs, still in your pyjamas, and when you open the door, you grab his hand to drag him upstairs and into your room.

There’s not even a chance for him to greet you with a hello when you get back in bed and lift the sheets on the empty side for him to get under them and join you.

Ross doesn’t take more than a few seconds to take off his shoes and shed himself off his coat, getting in your bed and wrapping an arm around your waist to pull you into him and let you cuddle yourself into him.

You basically sleep until your stomach growls as you become hungrier the more you’ve been ignoring it most of the morning, pushing aside your basic human needs to stay a little longer in Ross’ arms.

He brings you the cookies that were left from yesterday in a little plate and a glass of water, at your request, whilst you go to the bathroom to get ready for the day.

When you come back into your room, you shove one cookie into your mouth before starting your gift show and tell.

A warmth spreads through the both of you as you show him the most mundane and unimpressive gifts you’ve gotten, except for the pretty little necklace his parents got you of course, but it makes you laugh how since the last time you had done this, your presents went from an iPod mini, books and pretty dresses, to a pair of fuzzy socks and a set of floral pattern baking utensils.

You finish getting ready after you show him your presents, and he watches your every move attentively from your bed, which he has made very quickly before throwing himself over it again.

He grabs a pillow and places it over his eyes when you go to lift up your pyjama shirt, it’s not like you haven’t changed in front of the other before, but it’s been so long that he feels the need to offer you privacy.

He hears you snort at him as you sort through your wardrobe for a shirt, a jumper and a pair of jeans. And he smiles into the pillow when you mumble, “Silly,” as you finish buttoning your jeans.

“You can look now,” you say as you finish putting your shirt on.

And Ross catches a glimpse of the skin of your stomach when he lowers the pillow back onto the mattress.

He shifts from his side to his front to hide the way you affect him. He would’ve put the pillow on his lap but it would’ve been too obvious. He hopes he has a second to adjust himself without you looking when you’re about to leave.

You offer him the biggest of smiles before turning to look at yourself in the mirror and fixing your hair, putting a bit of makeup on your face to look decent for when you go to exchange gifts with your friends at Matty’s house.

Ross is entirely entranced watching you through the mirror, he can’t stop thinking about how he’s always thought you were pretty. But somehow, with time, you’ve only grown more and more beautiful.

As if that was even possible.

You’re just unreal, truly. He can’t understand the mystery of you. And he doesn’t really need to, all he wishes to do is to witness it.

When you go downstairs, Ross follows behind a bit slower since he stayed hidden behind your door adjusting himself for a few seconds while you went ahead, you shout to your parents that you’ll be going to Ross’ and then Matty’s so you’d probably come back home after tea.

They say, “Alright, have fun!” back and you’re off.

But not before Ross catches your wrist before you can walk away from the bottom of the stairs.

You stumble into his chest and he swiftly cups your jaw, tilting your head in the perfect angle for him to lean in and catch your lips in a soft kiss that steals your breath away. It’s slow and delicate, like he’s taking in the way your lips slot perfectly together, trying to memorise how your mouths move with each other.

You’re speechless when he pulls back, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth before he points upwards, “Mistletoe.”

A scoff slips past your lips. “Didn’t know you were such a rule follower,” you tease. He’s so smooth it makes you want to scream.

He shrugs, “Depends on the rule.”

Despite the fact that you assure Ross’ mum that you’ve had breakfast—Ross snitches on you saying it was just cookies and a glass of water—, you’re fed a healthy amount of leftovers for breakfast the second you walk into the MacDonald’s home.

Only thirty minutes later, you’re upstairs in Ross’ room with a mug of hot chocolate as he shows off the gifts he got this year. Which, again, makes you laugh because it’s yet again more proof about the fact that you’re too old now and all you get is adult gifts.

You can’t help but snort when he shows off the beanie and scarf your parents got him, but ultimately admit he looks adorable all bundled up in the matching cotton set.

He wears the beanie proudly when you both walk up to Matty’s, while you have the scarf wrapped around your neck after you quickly snatched it from his room before leaving his house.

When you get to the Healy residence, it’s enough of a shock to see the two of you arriving at the same time. George is the one to ask with a frown if you had walked up there together and you nod with smiles on your faces.

Matty elbows Adam when he notices your accessories match.

The curly headed boy really tries his best to hide his curiosity but he can only last fifteen minutes into the catch up you’ve all fallen into before he asks, “Where’s your boyfriend?”

It’s a shock when you nonchalantly answer, “Oh, we broke up.”

And even more of a shock when you beam after the words leave your mouth.

Ross smiles just as big, proud of you for being so strong about that situation. No one really knows about it and it shows. Yes, you had been confiding in Matty about your struggles feeling extremely lonely in uni but you had never told him the reality about your boyfriend, knowing damn well how it looked that you got into that relationship because you were so desperate to feel something.

You had so much to tell everyone, but this wasn’t the time. Not yet.

The change in the dynamic between you and Ross is obvious, especially after consecutive years of clear, growing distance in between the two of you. But no one comments on it because they don’t want to disturb the return of a friendship that had been, from the very beginning, the core of the unity of your friend group. Even if the girls aren’t here celebrating with all of you anymore, Ross and you had been the ones to bring all of you together once upon a time, and it’s certainly refreshing for the boys to see that restored.

So when the New Year’s Eve party comes around, the group is a little more rowdy and you and Ross don’t stray far from each other’s side.

It might be because it feels like you’re all back in 2006 when you were still in high school and nothing had changed just yet, that Matty and George cause more and more ruckus. It’s certainly entertaining to watch but when George is stopped by a drunk Hann from doing a frontflip from the top of the stairs, and possibly breaking his bones, Ross pulls you outside for some peace and quiet as it’s really close to midnight.

The cold air makes you shiver and sobers you up a little, but god bless Ross MacDonald for offering you a cigarette then.

You place it between your lips and let him light it up, he struggles a bit with the strong wind but you help him by cupping your hands around the end of the stick.

Taking a long drag, you let the smoke in your lungs start to relax you and bring you the warmth you so desperately want right now.

The mess going on inside is still loud despite Ross closing the door, and suddenly, the memory of that 2006 New Year’s Eve night comes flashing back to the forefront of your mind.

“This is giving me some serious déjà vu,” you say as you hold in the smoke for a few seconds before letting it out upwards.

He knows exactly what you mean, he’s been thinking about it from the second you stepped foot in the house, but he still plays dumb, “Hmmm, really?”

You nod, taking a drag before saying, “Yeah. If I remember correctly, it was 2006 and we had come out to escape a very drunk Matty and George thrashing everything inside so we could have a calm countdown. We were sharing a fag, and the countdown started.”

As if rehearsed, you hear drunk voices loudly starting to countdown from ten inside the house.

Ten, nine, eight…

“And?” Ross pushes you to continue.

Biting your bottom lip, you try your best to hold back from smirking as you casually add, “And I said happy new year.”

He hums, “Not forgetting something?”

“Am I?” you play dumb, holding the cigarette between your fingers as you look at him.

Seven, six, five, four…

He turns to look at you, taking one little step towards you to invade your space, and nods, “I reckon, yeah.”

Your brows furrow and you cock your head to the side as you feign confusion.

“Mind refreshing my memory?”

You don’t have to tell him twice.

He pounces on your lips harshly, and it’s this time that desperation shines through the movement of his mouth on yours. His tongue doesn’t waste a second to slip past your parted lips and he groans when he tastes the tart tobacco on your tongue along with the vodka cranberry you’ve been having all night.

His trimmed beard itches your skin in a way that drives you mad and you can only think about how you would really like to get used to it. Your mind betrays you thinking about how it could feel brushing between your thighs, your arms swing around his neck and your fingers run up his scalp, making him moan into your mouth.

Three, two, one…

Your lungs burn with the lack of oxygen and you pull back, panting, but a smirk doesn’t fail to break on your face and you breathlessly quip, “Ah yes, I remember now.”

Your cheekiness has him groaning again before he dips back for another kiss, his arm wrapped so tightly around your waist that you’re pressed impossibly close to his front, you cling onto him just as passionately and let everything you’re feeling in the moment show through the way your mouth moves along with his.

Revelling in the taste of him, the feel of him.

The two of you tune out the loud drunk voices wishing each other a happy new year on the other side of the door.

“Happy New Year, sweetheart,” he says against your mouth when he pulls back slightly.

Your breaths mix, becoming one as you try to get back oxygen into your lungs. Your nails dig into his scalp, wishing for there to be a way for you to melt into him. You can think of a few ways you can even come close to becoming one with him.

Your pupils are blown when you open your eyes and look into his, “Happy New Year, Ross.”

✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧

The pride that swells your chest every time Ross sends you a picture of a place he and the boys are touring is impossible to explain with words.

You burst into tears every time you talk about your talented boys travelling around the world after the hit their debut album had been. The scolding you got for missing a day of work to go up to Manchester and celebrate their first number one album was definitely worth it, for celebrating their talent and the success they deserved was one of the best fucking days of your life.

After a few months of touring, the boys have finally come back home for the holidays. The 17th of December they played their last gig of the tour in some festival in Virginia, and on the 18th they had come back to their shared flat in Manchester.

So you were up in Manchester too.

“Love, you need to dial it down on the speed,” you tell Ross when you come back into the kitchen after taking your stuff to Ross’ room.

The second you got to the flat, you had been greeted with loads of hugs and kisses from the boys and far too many stories for you to hear in one afternoon. Your bag had been left forgotten by the door where you dropped it when George came running to crush you in a hug that you welcomed gracefully, and then the rest of them followed.

Ross had been quite distracting with the amount of kisses he stole before the guys gagged enough times to have him leave you alone and then they took you to the settee where they sat you down and told you all about the tour.

But then Adam’s girlfriend came over and they went off on a date, George went out to meet his girlfriend at a restaurant, and Matty was off to his parent’s house to visit them and little Louis who had been missing him loads.

That was when Ross finally had you all to himself, and despite the fact that he was itching to get you in his room, he hadn’t been able to say no to baking cookies with you first.

The same cookies you had made him and his family the day he gave you the potatoes back on Christmas day 2002. It just felt right to choose that recipe in particular.

Ross frowns as he looks at the mixer quickly, maybe too quickly, mixing the sugar and butter together, “Why? It’ll be over faster and we can go to my room.”

The smirk on his face makes you chuckle, and you shake your head as you walk up to him. “Oh, you’re awfully confident,” you tut before wrapping your arms around his neck.

He wraps his arms around your waist and dips his head to kiss you but you pull back slightly, he raises his brows in question, “Thought you had missed me.”

“I did,” you assure, your eyes falling to his lips, but you pull back again when he dips down for a kiss once more. You love to tease him you’ve found ever since you got together at the beginning of the year, and so you do, “But I think you missed me more, didn’t you?”

With that voice of yours, it’s impossible for him to deny it. He fights a groan but lets his hands fall slowly down your waist and lower back to your ass and there, he squeezes harshly as he says, “I certainly did.”

You swallow a moan but the hunger in your eyes is clear and a mirror of his, but before you can get too carried away, you let your hands run down his chest and you pat it twice before demanding, “Okay, stop it. Let’s finish this first.”

“Alright, sweetheart,” he agrees easily.

Just because it’s you. It’s hard for him to be stubborn when it’s you.

When the cookies are in the oven, he tries to distract you with those kisses of his that leave you breathless and needy, but you really have to remind yourself of the danger it would entail if you let yourself fall into your boyfriend’s charms and leave the cookies to burn.

It’s only when all three batches of them are out and on the cooling rack, which Ross definitely bought just for the times you came around and wanted to bake, that you and Ross run off to his room and make up for the time you’ve spent apart.

That’s how most of the days that you’re back together go: either tangled in between the sheets, indulging in each other’s touch and letting the devotion you feel for the other translate in your bodies becoming one, or cuddling as you watch film after film—or rewatching the three seasons of Game of Thrones, which he’s certainly obsessed with, and you definitely tease him about how much you fancy Jon Snow as if he doesn’t resemble him.

You go Christmas shopping together but split for an hour in the middle of your afternoon to buy each other your gifts, coming back giggling as you hide your gifts from the other but definitely try to guess what you’ve got as you go back to the flat.

The best time is when you’re all getting ready to go back to Wilmslow, like a big happy family you take up every seat in Matty’s car and it’s a chaotic thirty minute drive that makes your heart swell inside your chest.

The afternoon of the 24th, it is starting to snow outside and you two are cosied up on the settee with a shitty American Christmas film playing in the background as you go through your pictures throughout the years.

“Ross, look at you!” you coo loudly when you find a polaroid of him with a birthday hat on which is dated June 6th 2003. “A baby!”

He grimaces at the look of his long hair, styled to the side of his forehead and brushed down and straight like a cow had licked it, “Ugh, that’s a mess.”

You scoff and chat back, “No, you were so cute,” before going back to pouting over the picture of him.

He hadn’t started growing proper facial hair yet and he looked like a baby after he had shaved the patchy beard he always got back then. Nostalgia hits you as you remember how cute you thought he was back then and you still do. Somehow, your crush on your boyfriend only gets stronger with time.

“‘Were’?” he questions you with a raise of his brows.

You want to laugh at him for sticking to that bit of your words but swallow it to tease, “Yeah, ‘were’.”

A screech leaves you when his fingers come to mercilessly tickle your sides and you thrash around the settee as he comes to hover over you and continue his attack.

It’s a mix of shrieks and cackles and begs for him to stop that fill the room and overpower the sound of Will Ferrell’s voice, the pictures have all spilled on the floor as you kicked your legs and waved your arms around helplessly.

“Baby, stop!” you beg again and this time he listens, leaning in to press a bunch of kisses all over your face before pulling back and helping you sit back up on the settee.

The two of you start gathering the pictures from the floor then and sorting them through the years. But it is then that you notice the gap in between years, when you had been so foolish to ruin things all because of your bitterness.

The sorrowful words leave you as you flip through the handful of pictures from 2006 and the clear difference with only the few from 2007 and then the lack of them from 2008 to 2011. “So many years with no pictures…”

Ross blames it on him though, “I was an idiot.”

But you won’t let him take the blame all on his own, “Oh babe, I was too.”

He smiles sadly at the pictures but when he looks at you, his smile grows wider, “We’ll make up for it.”

His hand brushes your hair behind your ears and you nod, agreeing, “Definitely,” before kissing the palm of his hand softly.

Your boyfriend’s face melts in adoration and his voice drops an octave as he speaks, “I’m never letting you go, you know that right?”

The stupidest smile tugs at the corners of your mouth then before you reply, “I wouldn’t dream of ever leaving.”

Carefully setting the pictures aside, he shuffles closer to you and kisses you soft and sweet. His lips move on your with the same intent that his fingers dig into your cheeks.

Your hands come over his, wanting to keep his touch there, for him to never stop holding you like this and he confirms that he’ll never even think of doing it when he pulls back and mumbles against your lips, “I love you so much, sweetheart.”

The fluttering in your belly and the electricity that buzzes through you never dwindles, no matter how many times you hear him say that.

Nothing’s been easier and felt more natural in your life than saying it back, “Love you so much more, babe.”

You love telling him how much you love him and you love even more seeing his cheeks tint pink when he hears you say it. He always struggles maintaining eye contact after you let it slip past your lips like he can’t help but become putty in your hands when you utter those three words to him.

And you can’t help but giggle at the effect you have on him.

He basically throws himself forward and hides his face in your neck, but he forgets his size and strength for he makes you tumble backwards and fall on the settee with him over you, stealing your breath away.

He doesn’t move when you groan about him crushing you, he only nuzzles in your neck more and you just let it happen. Having him on top of you is your favourite feeling in the world after all, so you just let him melt over you and you even bring your hands up to his head, scratching his head and massaging his scalp. He moans and groans, getting you all flustered in the process.

You can hear his breathing evening out and his heartbeat becoming more regular, so you know he’s about to fall asleep and you smile at the thought of falling asleep like this right now, but the front door opens and your parents walk back into the house with a handful of bags each.

“Did you buy everything mum?” you ask like you have every year since the potato fiasco in 2002.

“Yes,” she calls back with an annoyed sigh like every year.

But you keep taunting her, “Didn’t forget a thing?”

She indulges you as she sing-songs, “Not one.”

You hum, continuing to play with Ross’ hair, “How about the potatoes?”

Ross smirks at your taunting and shakes his head. But then your mum tiredly answers from the kitchen, “They’re here, who do you think I–...”

The trailing off has you and Ross holding your breaths, and then you hear your mum’s loud cursing, “Oh bollocks!”

And the two of you can’t stop the cackles that leave you.

Trying to speak in between laughter is hard and your mum can barely make out your words when you ask, “Did you forget the potatoes?”

“Yeah…”

Tears spill from your eyes as you continue to laugh, “You’ve got something against them I swear, woman.”

“Could you go get some, please?” your mum asks, seeing that there’s still some time left before the shops close down.

You sigh tiredly but actually give in, “Sure.”

Ross leans in and kisses your lips softly and, unfortunately, very briefly.

“Don’t worry. I got it,” he whispers against your mouth, a hint of cockiness in his tone that makes you smirk and play along to what he’s trying to do.

“Will you take some Christmas cookies in exchange for them?” your fingers continue playing with his hair, but you pout to try and play onto the pity you want him to take on you.

He hums like he’s thinking about it but he settles for something else, “Actually, I’ll take a kiss.”

“Just one?” you question with your brows raised.

He gasps like it’s a miracle you’re offering more than one, “Oh well, if you’re feeling generous.”

Your fingers trail down the sides of his face until you can rub circles on his cheeks with your thumbs, “Christmas is all about giving, isn’t it?”

The words echo inside his mind, and he smirks harder knowing what he’s meant to say, “I guess it is.”

A breathy chuckle leaves you, and he steals it by smashing your lips together. Every time he kisses you, you lose track of time and everything around you loses its meaning. You’re completely blinded by him, overcome by his existence, full of everything he has to give you.

Unfortunately, you can’t continue losing yourself in him for your mum shouts from the kitchen, “Oi! Go get the potatoes, you two!”

✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧✦✧

A/N:  This was actually so much fun to plot but a bit tricky to write, so I truly hope you enjoyed the final product!! Kinda wishing I wrote more holiday themed fics now, but I promise I'll try to bring more of them soon, as many as my heart can take lol. I'll take this opportunity to thank you for reading and sending in your reactions, for accompanying me through this crazy year. Love yous so much and I wish you all the happiest new year!!! MWAHHH xxxx

Taglist: @imagine-that-100 @kennedy-brooke @abiiors @everythinggetsfuzzy103 @on-administrative-leave @ughgoaway @harryssiren @2kwreck @obses-sedd @scarlett-grace-2 @taylorswiftsrep-blog @solitariodecartas @cherryofmydesire @momentum2023 @soggynoodles02 @poisonmedaddy13 @k4tie75

[artsy0wl]

Champion Night Terrors

Another attempt at Truerivalshipping (leonxRaihan/Leohan). This time a little angstier.

CW for light violence/abuse. Link to it on AO3 at the end.

“I thought we were making progress. He was eating, and he was starting to smile again. He’s been sleeping through the night and finally remembering that he is safe.”

Raihan pinched the bridge of his nose, eyes tightly closed. His free hand tightly clenched the mug in his hand, shaking. Across from him sat Leon’s mother. Worn eyes watch Raihan, listening to him with patience and attentiveness.

His visit, though unexpected, was welcomed. And his concerns heartfelt. And given who his concerns were for, she couldn’t be more appreciative.

“It’s not your fault.” She assured as her hand lightly held his.

“I know,” Raihan released the bridge of his nose, letting his hand rest, “but last night he woke up again screaming and crying.” He shook his head. “Something’s going on in that fuzzy head of his and he refused to tell me.”

“He doesn’t want to worry.” Leon’s mom stated, knowing that all too well.

He shrugged. “Unfortunately, it’s too late for that, mama champ. I’m worried sick.”

There was a pause. One long enough for the sound of the door opening and closing to sound off. Picking the mug up with both hands, Raihan took a sip of coffee.

“Ma, I’m home!” Hop’s voiced greeted as footsteps honed in on the kitchen. “Is everything alright? Why is…” Realizing Raihan was in the kitchen with his mom, Hop’s demeanor shifted. “Oh! Hey Raihan.”

“Hey, Hop.” Raihan greeted. “It’s good to see you.”

Hop smiled then looked to his mom. “Is Lee okay?” He inquired. “He always said he hated sleeping on the couch because it was too firm.”

His mom smiled, comfortingly. “He’s alright. You know you’re brother. Runs himself ragged when left unchecked. Leon’s just a little under the weather and Raihan wanted some tips.”

“Oh… okay.” He looked to Raihan as he headed for the stairs. “He likes lavender tea. He likes the smell of it and it always makes him happy.”

Raihan smirked, appreciating the suggestion. “I’ll keep that in mind.” He watched as Hop went up the stairs, only turning to face the boy’s mother when he heard the door close. “Is it okay to lie to him like that?”

“He worries about Leon enough as is.” She noted. “And I think I speak for all of us when I say Leon wouldn’t want Hop to worry about this.”

“You’re not wrong. It just doesn’t feel right.”

“I appreciate the concern, but if Hop does find out, that should be up to Leon.” Raihan gave her a resigned and understanding nod. “Now, you said you might have a theory.”

“Right.” He readjusted his position. “So… it seems like this started up after Rose tried to trigger the Darkest Day. Between that and his loss, I thought that maybe he was just having a hard time processing the emotional stress. However, last nights night terror sparked after watching the court case and former chairman Rose yelling at the judge. Leon flinched when he did. So I suspect there’s something more sinister to Rose than I previously thought.” He paused, leaning forward. “He was sponsored by Rose, yeah? Do you know if he ever got… aggressive with Leon?”

Eyes curiously moved around as Leon’s mother thought for a moment. She tried to recall whatever she could about the sponsorship and Leon’s journey to becoming a Campion. She folded her arms as one hand rested beneath her chin.

“If he was I never saw it.” She admitted. “Nor did Leon ever say anything about it. During Rose’s sponsorship him, Leon always appeared happy. He still carries that demeanor to this day. And Rose always seemed kind to Leon until recently.” She nodded at the memory. “He treated Leon like his own son. Praised him for his hard work, stating how Leon was just the champion Galar needed.” Her head tilted. “If he did do anything, I could never read the signs, which I’d deeply regret never realizing. Rose never gave me a reason to suspect…”

A frightened whimper echoed from the other room, silencing her statement. The dragon specialist felt a chill go down his spine as another, slightly louder, whimper emerge. Raihan jumped from his chair running to the living room. Leon’s mom wasn’t too far behind, stopping at the doorway, watching in panic as Raihan helped her son.

Leon’s body was tightly curled, despite it’s anxious shaking. His eyes were tightly shut, tears forming. Approaching the couch, Raihan shuffled around. He sat Leon up as he sat on the couch and pulled the champion on his lap. Arms wrapped around Leon as Raihan’s hand rested on the back of Leon’s head, gently stroking purple hair.

“Leon, it’s okay.” Raihan whispered. “You’re safe.”

Shaking his head unconsciously, Leon hissed. Low mumbling escaped Leon. Scrambled jumbling of what sounded like words. Leon unconsciously thrashed in Raihan’s grip, letting out a fearful cry.

Raihan said nothing, holding Leon tight. He didn’t care if he got hurt, knowing that if he let go of Leon, the man would unintentionally hurt himself. A scream escaped Leon then a gasp as he regained consciousness.

Wide amber eyes scanned the room, confused and anxious. His mind slowly started to collect itself as Leon realized he was home. And as he focused on his mother, his eyes started to water as he realized he had frightened her.

“I’m sorry.” Leon apologized, covering his eyes.

Leon’s mother let out a soft sigh, lightly smiling. “It’s okay, honey.” She sat down on the couch. “Everything’s going to be okay.”

“But I’m the… champion. I can’t be afraid. And I’m certainly not supposed to cry.”

Leon felt his body being constricted as Raihan tightened his embrace. “Leon, if you think we care about that, you’re wrong. Champion or not, you’re human like the rest of is. You’re allowed to show emotion.”

“But-“

The sound of a door swinging open alarmed the trio. Leon’s head bobbed trying to locate the sound. His mother was the first to realize it came from upstairs.

“Mom?!” Hop shouted as he started moving.

Horrified that Hop possibly witnessed any of this, Leon frantically looked between Raihan and his mother. She and Raihan exchanged glances. She got up, heading for the stairs.

“Everything’s alright, Hop!” She replied as she walked up the stairs.

There was a moment of agonizing silence until they no longer heard Hop or the duo’s mother. Shoulder’s deflated as Leon leaned into Raihan. The smell of bonfires, soothing him slightly.

“I’m sorry, Raihan.” Leon apologized.

“You don’t need to apologize.” Raihan stated, brushing bangs off of Leon’s face. “I just… I’m just… Leon, I’m worried about you. I want to help you, but I feel like you're shutting me out.”

Sitting up, Leon looked up at Raihan, guilty and scared. “I didn’t mean to make you feel that way. I just don’t want to worry you by burdening you with my stupid trauma.”

A hand clasped the side of Leon’s face. “I AM worried! You’re not a burden. And your trauma is not stupid.” Raihan gently kissed Leon’s forehead. “Please… let me help you.”

Taking a deep breath, Leon shuffled off of Raihan’s lap. Sitting on his knees, Leon sat on the ground in front of his boyfriend. Amber eyes refused to acknowledge Raihan. Not even when Raihan joined him on the floor. Fists clenched on Leon’s lap, as he tried to find the right words.

Raihan watched him in silence, not planning to force a response out of Leon.

“I thought he was a good man.” Leon stated. “He saw potential in me and thought I would go far.”

Leon stumbled back, a fresh bruise forming on his cheek. His Charmeleon ran over to him, concerned. Leon tried not to react, but his shock and pain were undeniable. He winced, looking at Chairman Rose for answers.

“You got cocky.” Rose lectured.

”I won, didn’t I?”

“Only after you nearly caused your Axew to faint against a Hatterene. You know Fairy types beat it.” He approached Leon with disappointment and annoyance. “Then you got in a fight with that trainer all because you let his insults get to you.”

”He called me a shit trainer and a waste of space.”

Rose’s voice raised. “I don’t care! He could have said you smelled like a Skuntank for all I care. Champions do not let crash words get to them. I’m very disappointed in you.”

Leon gasped, faltering. His shoulders slumped and he took a few steps back. Holding back the urge to scream, he bit his tongue. Rose’s demeanor shifted, softening with a smile. Approaching Leon, he pat his head.

“I’m sorry, Leon.” He apologized. “You have to realize that the world is watching and I’d hate to see you’re reputation sour. Especially this soon. So takes this as a lesson in how to be humble.”

Hands clenched Leon’s pant legs. “I was only sixteen and he hit me like I was a grown man. It was the first time he hit me, but not the last.”

Raihan leaned towards Leon, hands holding Leon’s. Amber eyes gazed at Raihan, holding back tears.

“There’s more.” Leon admitted as one of Raihan’s hands held his arm.

“You don’t have to-“

“Please… I need to tell you. I need to let this go.”

Bruised hands slammed on a locked closet door. How long had he been in there? Minutes? Hours? Days?

“Let me out!” Leon shouted.

He was terrified. Tears streaking down his face. Leon lost a battle. The first in since he started his journey.

“You need to learn that your actions have consequences.” Rose stated from the other side. “I hate punishing you, Leon, but after today, I might have been wrong in sponsoring you.”

Footsteps shuffled, leaving Leon alone on the dark. The sounds of screams echoing behind him.

“He left me in there for so long, multiple times.” Leon recalled, holding back tears. “He wanted me to learn to ‘overcome the solitude’ I would face as a Champion. But I was afraid. So very afraid.”

Thumbs lightly rubbed tears away as Raihan’s hands cupped Leon’s face. “You don’t have to tell me anymore.” Raihan whispered, heart aching for Leon.

Hands grabbed Raihan’s wrists. “One last confession.” Leon pleased. “For me. Please. I can’t hold onto it anymore.”

He did it. He finally did it. Leon was now the Champion. Yet, everything was not as it seemed. Something off.

Leon had lost weight. Though he had muscle, he was leaner than he should be. His attire was neat and and his stance was confident. Yet, his smile, warm and welcoming, hid exhaustion and pain.

Retiring to his hotel room, Leon cleaned up. Washing his face, a bruise and scratch on his cheek emerged from their concealer shield. Dark circles rimmed his eyes as he sighed.

“You did wonderful out there.” Rose applauded, entering his room with a spare key. “The crowd loves you.”

“Mhm.”

Leon continued on. He wasn’t meaning to come off as standoffish. He was just tired from the celebratory ceremony.

SMACK

Leon yelped, stepping back as the scratch on his face started bleeding. Amber eyes flashed, dilated as they watched Rose. Hands grabbed him, shaking him violently.

“Don’t you dare ignore me, young man.” Rose lectured. “I made you. You are nothing without me.”

“I’m sorry.” Leon apologized, his voice weak and tears forming. His cheek stung as he was hit again then went numb.

“And don’t you dare cry. Champions don’t cry. Smile!” Fearful, Leon listened. “Good. Now, freshen up. The dinner starts in thirty minutes.”

He pushed Leon back, throwing him against the wall. A light thud could be heard as Leon’s head lightly bounced off it. Leon leaned forward, face hidden beneath hair as his gaze fell to the ground. Rose left him there, opening the door. He looked back at Leon with disgust.

“What do you have to say, young man?” All Rose heard was a mumble. “Speak up!”

“Thank you.” Leon softly replied.

“You’re welcome. Now wear that red suit and you better happy when I come back.”

Rose slammed the door behind him and left. Leon, now alone, slid down and sat on the floor. Curling up, he hugged his legs, silently crying.

“I couldn’t say anything.” Leon admitted though tears. “He was right. Without his sponsorship, I wouldn't be where I am today.” A choked gasp escaped him. “I may have pretended to be happy for my safety at times, but I was genuinely happy about becoming the Champion.” Shaking his head, Leon looked away. “He’s been there for me since the beginning and I admired him. I couldn’t just forget years of kindness because he hurt me.”

Leon was now sobbing. Choked cries scratched his throat and heavy tears flooded his sight. His body shook like a branch in the wind. Fear bleed from Leon, finally releasing buried violent memories.

Arms wrapped around Leon, pulling him close. Blue eyes closed as Raihan held Leon tight. He said nothing, knowing nothing he could say would help. Leon buried his face in Raihan’s jacket, wrapping his arms around Raihan.

His mind wandered processing what he had just learned. All of the abuse Leon endured under the guise of a smile. How bad it must have gotten. An image of Rose drawing blood because he was annoyed… strict… downright abusive. It made Raihan’s blood boil.

But Raihan couldn’t worry about that now. Now with Leon in this state. Resting on Leon’s head, Raihan took in the scent of vanilla and lavender. He gently rocked back and forth in an attempt to soothe Leon. His frame lightly vibrated as Raihan began humming.

Once Leon calmed down, Raihan loosened his grip. Instead of backing up, Leon stayed put, latching onto Raihan like a Mankey to a tree. He melted as Raihan ran his hand through Leon’s hair.

“Do you want to press charges?” Raihan inquired.

Leon shook his head. “He’s already been arrested. Even if it wasn’t for what he did for me, he’s already being punished. And I still believe that there’s a good man in there somewhere.”

Though he did not agree, Raihan nodded, respecting Leon’s choice. “What about therapy? For you I mean.”

Leon rested his head on Raihan’s shoulder. “Mhm. Not today, but I’d like to soon. Could you help me?”

“Of course. I might have a recommendation or two that’ll suit you.”

Leon nodded, closing his eyes. He hummed a little, comfortable and relieved. Exhausted too.

Thinking back to how he felt, now with a clearer head, Raihan sighed. ”He’s never going to hurt you again.” He promised. “If he even thinks about getting near you, I’ll kill him.”

Leon smiled. “Thank you, my little Axew, but that won’t be necessary.”

“We’ll see about that.”

Leon shifted slightly, kissing Raihan’s cheek. “Right now, I think we could use a vacation. You think we can go to Sinnoh? I hear they have this fancy restaurant where people like to double battle and I think you’ll like Cynthia. She has a Garchomp and knows all the best ice cream shops.”

Raihan chuckled. “Sure. Why not?” He softly kissed Leon. “But first, you need to get some sleep and set up a therapy session.”

“Deal.”

~

When it had gotten too quiet too long, Hop and his mom went downstairs. They hoped Leon and Raihan hadn’t left. Or didn’t get into a fight.

Turning into the living room, Hop’s mother smiled, chuckling. Raihan and Leon were sprawled out on the ground, fast asleep. Leon’s head was resting on Raihan’s chest, purple hair wildly covering the ground. Raihan, meanwhile, had one hand wrapped around Leon’s waist and the other on Raihan’s stomach.

Hop, having ran back upstairs for a moment, entered the room with two blankets. His mither joined, taking a blanket and unfolding it. Once unfolded, they covered the sleeping duo. Neither awoke, unconsciously shifting slightly under the blankets.

Knowing they weren’t going anywhere, Hop and his mom let them be. Whatever happened, it would seem that Raihan had helped, and Leon on the mend. And for that, that deserved the rest.

[incorrect-ikevamp-quotes]

Spoiling You With All My Might -- Comte Collection Story Translation

I've been meaning to post this one for a while, as it's honestly in my top ten Comte events of all time. For this Collection story event, it was basically all the suitors comforting MC when she's stressed/tired/overworked. And lbr, who doesn't need that in their life?

Enjoy everyone, and just a reminder that I'm no professional--I just translate these for my own enjoyment. Without further ado:

In the early afternoon, when the hands on the clock are pointing to 3pm-- I was alone drinking tea in a quiet kitchen. (I’ve been busy lately…I think I’m a little burnt out.) My cup of tea was already empty, but somehow I didn’t have the energy to stand up-- Comte: MC, are you taking a break? Turning around revealed Comte standing in the middle of the doorway.

Okay but like. I gotta say just the thought of him peeking around the corner is killing me, he's the cutest man alive I swear

But also. Now I'm wondering if he's lowkey like IS IT MEOW MEOW TIME? MEOW MEOW T I M E!!!!!! pounces on the opportunity for quality time. Somehow that's even more adorable I'm going to explode from uwus

MC: Indeed I am. Would you like to have some tea, too? Comte: That’s an attractive invitation, but if you don’t mind, would you spend some time with me for a little while after this? MC: Go out with you…? Comte: I’m thinking of going for a walk. Would you like to join me? His hand was outstretched in a gentlemanly gesture that touched/eased my heart. MC: Haha, I’d love to.

I laughed a little at this because I'm definitely the kind of person that's like "omg pls, you are not beating the silly goose allegations!!!" over him being all suave over a walk together but. At the same time. HEART EYES M-- King of romantics everywhere. Gentleman of my heart. Mellifluous seducer have MERCY

More under the cut!

Comte’s escort led me to a forest a short walking distance from the mansion. As I walk alongside him, the sunbeams penetrate through the trees as they sway with the breeze. Comte: The weather is lovely today, making it a perfect occasion for a walk. MC: You’re right…the wind feels nice, too. As I walked slowly listening to the rustling trees, I could feel the fatigue/tension draining out of me little by little. (It feels like my heart is being cleansed. It’s so soothing…) Comte: … It was then that I noticed Comte gazing at me calmly.

As somebody who used to be plus ultra literally every minute of my life, this made me so softe inside. The way he cares so much about her ;-; he really said "I will die before I disrespect a girlboss, but also. I am here. For to help PLS. Also a crumb of attention...p l swleseskje...."

(Ah…by any chance) MC: Comte Comte: Yes? MC: …You invited me out for a change of pace, didn’t you? Comte smiled softly at my words. Comte: I just wanted to take a walk with you like this.

I do love how, especially in recent events, MC notices his gestures more and more 🥺💛💛💛💛💛💛 I think it's really cute that he wants to be sneaky sweet and supportive, and whenever she realizes it he's like. C'est moi? You're not fooling anyone pretty boy!!! I know you have brain cells up there!!! But also the sincerity in that last line, of how he really does also just want to spend some time with her. How he's always saying the most wonderful thing she can give him is her time.

Just put my body out to sea I can't do this anymore--

I was enveloped in the sound of his voice, warming my heart, and my feet stopped involuntarily. Comte: MC? MC: Every time you treat me so kindly like this…I’m so happy I could cry Jokingly, Comte turned around and spread his coat. Comte: If you want to do so, that’s okay too MC: Huh… Comte: After all, there is no one here but us. If you want to cry, you can cry. Comte wrapped me gently in his open coat and murmured in my ear. Comte: Like this, there will be no trace of tears left behind. MC: Oh… (It’s okay to cry…that’s not something you hear very often when you’re fully grown.) (Just hearing him say that in such a sweet voice makes my heart feel lighter…) (Comte really is amazing)

Honestly this part just made me melt, I have no words--I'm down bad fellas. We love a man who encourages his partner that its safe to be vulnerable 😭🙏🏼

But also I feel the need to say. Comte don't offer this to me because from that point on I will live in your coat. It will no longer be 'Comte's nice coat,' but rather:

MC: Thank you. But…Aren’t you spoiling me too much? When I looked up and asked him, he leaned over to drop a kiss to my forehead… MC: Oh… Comte: I see. I think I don’t spoil you enough. Comte’s long fingers reached out to wipe my eyes gently. Comte: MC, I love everything about you. Comte: Your fatigue and your tears, don’t forget that it’s my privilege to soothe them with these hands. He gazes deeply into my eyes, and I can’t help how my heart races in response.

So like. Do you ever just cry and die. Because.

I'm like somewhere between "WE GOT A 2319!!!!!!!!!" and inches from professing my eternal love and loyalty like some kind of lovelorn knight too afraid to even touch the radiance of their beloved. Comte how on earth am I supposed to look at you without being blinded. Sun that's too bright!!!!! That's too b r i g h t!

I just. "Your fatigue and your tears, don’t forget that it’s my privilege to soothe them with these hands." [muffled wailing noises] Did I ASK--

Mfer out here like 'oh the terrible fate of being tied to me for eternity' meanwhile every second of being with him is either dizzyingly passionate or like being wrapped up in the warmest, fluffiest blankie imaginable. I HAVE TO S T A N SIR--

MC: Ah, if you spoil me so much, I’m afraid I won’t be able to do anything on my own anymore. Comte smiled a little as I laughed deceptively in the hopes of hiding how delighted I was. Comte: That’s great. I’d love to see that, myself. The fingers that had been stroking my eyes slipped down my cheek to touch my lips. Comte: If you can’t manage to walk alone--I’ll be there to hold you up, and walk alongside you. His sweet whisper ends when his lips gently cover mine. MC: Mn… In the midst of his enveloping kiss, I gently entrusted my body to the person dearest to me--

Can I just ?????? Say????? How much I love MC being teasing/catty with him as the events go on. I LOVE it here. I think I really like how she grows into her own strength, and how she feels comfortable expressing her shyness without ceding that integrity. One thing I've noticed that I love in relationships is this ability to air grievances in a playful way, where the stakes are low--but the person can still express their feelings and be comforted. I think I like how it's not about putting pressure on the person, but getting it out in the open and resolved all the same. It just fills me with warm fuzzies c:

Also. "If you can’t manage to walk alone--I’ll be there to hold you up, and walk alongside you." Like not to beat a dead horse, but wow. Pretty sure this metaphysically changed me as a person. Thanks, I will never be the same. True love exists, [unhinged barking noises], etc etc

[wifeofnatasharomanoff]

Say Yes To Me (chapter 3)

Series Masterlist

WARNINGS: memory loss, angst, slight fluff

WORDS: 1,328

PAIRING: Natasha Romanoff x f!reader

A/N: hi my darlings! it's almost been a month since i posted chapter 2, but i hope you like this! take care of yourselves and get rest if you need to <3

It was cold. Freezing. The weather, your hands.. the winter took a toll on you. The summer breeze was gone. That terrible day was during summer. Oh, but you loved summer. You were the sun and they were the moon. But who are they? Someone, a woman who your mind is telling you that you know loves winter. She hated summer. She loved summer for you, but who was she? Your memories were scattered, you remembered very few things. Important things. But she was important, why couldn't you recall who she was? Two children.. a baby girl and a little boy, they loved autumn. The faint heat in the air, the slightly chilly wind. You loved autumn, and so did she.

“Mrs. Romanoff? ma'am are you okay?” you look up to face whoever or whatever spoke. Nothing. Everything seemed like a blur, or was it just you? “Mrs. Romanoff?” you snapped out of your thoughts and looked up at the figure in front of you. You could see it clearly, an older man with glasses on, the glasses were black and gray. A lab coat. He was a doctor. Were your ears ringing? You couldn't hear properly. Maybe it was just your head blocking unnecessary noises.

“uh.. yes doctor?” you said as you played with your fingers, your gaze back onto your lap. “Do you know who these people are?” the man questioned, holding up a picture of 4 people. You, a little girl in your arms– your daughter. A woman, and a toddler on her shoulders, your son. You knew three of the people. You and your children. “I.. can recognize 3 of them, i- it's me and my children. Is it not?” he sighed and nodded his head. “The woman next to you, do you remember her Mrs. Romanoff?” there it was again. Red hair, green eyes, pale skin. The woman from your dream, what was she doing in a picture with you and your kids? The silence was unbearable, you hated going to the doctors, it had this depressing feel to it. But she'd always take you whenever you'd get sick.

“Okay,” the doctor sighed, “how is your physical pain? Are you feeling any better?” you nod. “Your bruises seemed to have healed up. Thankfully for the healing pod and Starks tech, that terrible scar on your abdomen is gone as well.” he said, noting down on a piece of paper. A report for your recoverments, maybe. “Have you been able to contact your children recently?” he asked, keeping his eyes on his notes. “hm.. y- yes I have. I saw them yesterday.” you began to poke at your skin with your fingernails. She used to scold you for it, but it happened whenever you'd feel nervous or uneasy.

“Good, good. What were their names?” you dug your nail into your palm, “Alex, my son, and Aliana.. my daughter.” you narrowed your eyes to focus on his writing and noticed him putting down a check mark. “u-um sir, doctor. When am I able to leave the hospital?” you ask. “Just as soon as your mentality recovers. Your head got hit pretty badly, causing you to forget things. Don't worry, we'll do our best to help you remember.” he said with a small smile. You wanted to leave. The walls felt as if they were closing in. You couldn't breathe properly, and your headaches worsened day by day. “oh okay.. thanks.” he put down his notepad, and you assumed he would ask questions again.

“Mrs. Romanoff, the front desk just said that your children are here to visit you. We'll finish speaking later alright? Have a nice day.” you stayed quiet as he walked out of the room. The clock wouldn't stop ticking, it was so noisy. It bothered you, but you couldn't do anything about it. The door opened with a click sound, two little kids stepped into the room, and you looked up behind them to see that woman again. She looked drained, tired. There were visible dark circles under her eyes, and a strained smile on her face.

“Mommy!” the little boy ran up to you, tightly clasping his tiny arms around your legs. “Alex! Sweetie, mommy missed you so much!” you smiled at him and picked him up in your arms. He buried his face in your shoulder, “mama's here too!” your smile falters, replacing it with a confused look. “Mama?” the redhead glances at you from across the room. “I– I don't..” he kisses your cheek, cutting you off from your words. “Alex.. honey, lemme go see your little sister okay?” he pouts, climbing out of your arms. “Fine..”

“mmomm'y!” Aliana jumps out of the woman's arms and into yours, “Ali,” you press your lips to the top of her head. “I missed you so much cutie!” she nuzzled your cheek with hers, relaxing herself in your hold. “Mama, aren't you gonna say hi to mommy?” Alex said, lightly tugging on Natasha's shirt. She put up a smile and pinched his cheek. “I will buddy, in a few minutes alright?” he frowned, “but– mommy's gonna be sad if you don't say hi right now.” she sighed. “Fine, I'll say hi to her. Okay?” he smiled, “okay.. you should hug her too. You always hug mommy.” she chuckles, regretting coming with the kids to visit you already. She wasn't fully prepared to see you after–

“Who are you? W-Where am I..?” the lost look on your face terrified her.

You lock eyes with the woman approaching you, and so does the baby in your arms. “Mama!” she babbled out, almost jumping into her arms, “d- do I know you?” you asked as you set the baby down on the bed, and focused your attention on the red-haired woman. Her face seemed more familiar the longer you looked at her. She sucked in a sharp breath, “God please.. please let her remember.” she thought to herself before moving closer to you. She pulled you in for a hug, tightly holding onto you. “Hey detka– it's me, your ‘Tasha bear’.” she said with a nervous laugh. She hated that nickname. But loved it because of you. “N- Natasha..” you sobbed into her chest. You remembered.

Her green eyes, her red hair, her hands. That ring on her finger. The ring that you both shared so many memories with. A proposal, your future wife down on her knee, holding up the ring that you had on your finger. Moonlit nights in bed.. your wrists held down, her lips on yours, bodies colliding in the darkness. The sunlight came, tears of joy streaming down both your faces, her hands in yours. Left on the nightstand were two pregnancy tests, both positive. A hospital room, surrounded by nurses. Your wife by your side as you clutched onto her hand, the cries of a newborn. A pained smile on your lips, your hold on her hand loosened.

She sighed, holding onto you as if the world would end right this moment. You remembered her, you remembered the life you had together.

She felt a light punch on her shoulder, “what did I do? Natasha?” another hit on her chest, and tears glazed over your eyes. “What did I do? hm?” a weak slap on her arm, this time the tears spilled out. “Why didn't you tell me! Why? It took you 3 months to tell me. You– Natasha..” your voice cracked as you scolded her for not telling you who she was earlier. “shh.. it's going to be okay moya lyubov.” she said, pulling you back into her arms. “N–Natty I-” she kissed the top of your head, “I know baby.. I know. I missed you too. So much.”

You two were more than happy that the children were oblivious to the whole situation. You wouldn't know what you'd do if they knew.

But nobody was prepared for what was to happen next. Not even you and Natasha.

A/N: stan Alex for telling his mama to hug mommy.

@lovsalvatore this isn't the last chapter, not yet at least. ;)

[sturnstvs]

finding out

warnings: talks of sex, teen pregnancy, use of y/n, toxic friends, mentions of periods

a/n: I hope you guys will enjoy this series! what I should add and shit should be added to the comments if you deam necessary

DISCLAIMER: IF YOU DO NOT LIKE THESE KIND OF THINGS DO NOT INTERACT

third person POV

y/n and the sturniolos were childhood bestfriends. matt, nick and chris became friends with y/n shortly after kindergarten. they found each other on the play ground one by one. nick was the first one to say hi to y/n and introduce himself to the girl.

chirs was the next to introduce himself when nick said he had a new friend. then it was matt.

y/n was good friends with all of the triplets however her and Chris had a different bond.

they where attached to the hip as some might describe it. they were best friends. all of them were.

when they got to jr high however the friend group got a bit complicated.

you see chris and y/n had made some friends on the first day of 7th grade. they were a little bit older being 9th graders. however at the time cahris nor y/n knew that. (big mistake) they introduced the older kids to matt and nick. the other boys thought that they seemed a little wired and they seemed older.

chris and y/n brushed it off as a 'their just overreacting' turns out they weren't

in 8th grade the now 10th graders invited the whole group to a party. matt and nick said no. nick was hanging out with this girl alahna they he had met recently and matt, well he was just matt. so chirs and y/n decided they would go by themsleves

long story short chris and y/n ended up having sex that night. they where pressured into it mainly. but the two fully decided to carry it out. and its not like they were drunk or anything they were 13 for god sake. the next morning they both decided that what they did the night before was a mistake and should never happen again.

which brings us to here right now, in present time.

y/n had been feeling under the weather recently. it was the colder months of the year so she didn't think anything of it. of course as a 13 year old your not going to automatically think the worst. so she didn't. she didn't think it was a problem. until her friend sophie started saying something about it.

"I saw in this movie that these could be the symptoms of pregnancy" sophie told her as they where walking into the school.

"no way! I mean I know I'm not stupid but there is no way I'm pregnant" y/n shrugged off

"well...you do have the symptoms that my older sister had before she told everyone that she was expecting" shopie said

"are you sure I mean I dont even think its possible, I mean yeah me and chris had sex during winter break but there's no way" y/n told her

"well I'm pretty sure as long as you have your period and you didn't use a condom, its a huge possibility" sophie shrugged as she and y/n walked to class after they put their books in their lockers.

"whatever I'll take a test just to put your mind at rest after school if you promise to come with me" y/n told sophie as they sat down in their first period.

latter that day after school chris came up to y/n after a long day just ready to go hang out with his favorite girl.

"hey! y/n! wait, slow down your going to fast" chris yelled running after the two girls walking out of the school

"what chris?" truth be told y/n didn't want to deal with his hyperactive ass today

"where are you going? aren't we supposed to hang today? my moms waiting in the car" he spoke

"oh, actually change of plans, I have to do something, sorry we'll hang out later" y/n said apologetically as her and sophie walked to the nearest convenience store.

matt and nick who had watched the whole interaction cringed when they saw y/n walk away leaving chris with a frown on his face.

"that was rough" matt comented

"why do you think she ran away so quickly?" chris asked his brothers

"I don't know but I think it might have to do with sophie I mean she has been hanging with y/n way more often" nick said

"yeah" was all chris said as the three walked over to his moms car. he couldn't help but think this was about something much bigger.

it was about a half hour later when sophie and y/n got to the convenience store.

"come on" sophie dragged y/n over towards the aisle trying to find the pregnancy tests.

once both of the girls found the aisle they decided to get the one that was somewhat cheep but also worked.

"I don't have any money" y/n pointed out

"its okay. I have some just pay me back later. this is important" sophie said

"okay" y/n said hesitantly

sophie grabbed the one that seemed like It was the most accurate and cheep.

"should we get two just in case?" sophie asked the girl

"i don't know? should we" this was all very overwhelming for y/n and she didnt want to do any of this.

sophie looked at y/n sympateticly and sighed grabbing another test.

both the girls got in line at the checkout. there wasnt many people in front of them so they got to the coaunter pretty quickly.

the older lady that was at the counter looked at the two girls suspisousely

"hope these are for an older sister" she said scanning the items

the girls just nodded not wanting to say anything.

sophie kindly payed and got handed the tests. she then started walking out of the store while y/n was still standing there.

"I cant go back home and take those" y/n panicked.

her parents werent the most supportive so she knew this was going to freak them out.

sophie nodded while y/n walked over towards the lady behind the counter. as if she knew what she was going to ask, the lady pointed towards the back of the store

"thanks" y/n whispered

as she walked to where the lady pointed thoughts began rummaging through her brain. what if she was actually pregnant? what about Chris? there both only 13, there's no way they would be able to keep it. and their parents. what are they going to say? once she got to the bathroom she let out a shaky breath.

theres no way this was happening.

y/n did everything that she had to once she had read the instructions. then waited.

while she was waiting sophie kocked on the door.

"you good in there y/n"

y/n opened the door and sophie immediately wrapped her arms in a hug. in the time of waiting the was tears streaming down her face.

after a little longer the timer had went off. with shaky hands y/n flipped over the test to revel two very prominat pink lines. y/n immediately broke down. what was she going to do

after a good few hours of crying and trying to adjust the reality of the situation sophie had convinced her to tell chris.

she invited him to her house later that night. chris with a happy face, strolled into her house not knowing his life was about to change.

y/n told him what had happened and obviously he was shocked. they both just cried into each others arms not knowing what they where going to do.

"I guess it sucks that I got my period only a couple weeks before that huh" y/n sniffled a laugh trying to cheer both of them up.

if they had each other they were going to get through this.

note: I want to point out that i feel like this isnt very realistic but that's okay it was a fun idea and it kinda came to me at night? I hope you guys liked it anyway. no hate please.

also give me requests of what if should do make sure you click the info page for more details!

[writerwithbrainrot]

Chapter 1: The World that Turns

In the world of light, legends of a world parallel to their own are now nearly forgotten. Who would have believed the dark of legend would plot to enter where they don't belong.

Warning: Swearing, violence mentioned, let me know if I need to add more!

｡☆✼★━━━━━━━━━━━━★✼☆｡

The festival in Castle Town couldn't have happened on a more perfect three days. Perfect weather, light breezes with a full sun casting warmth on the kingdom of Hyrule. Birds tweeted happily, and villagers were loud in Castle Town.

Gorons, Zora, Hylians, Rito all setting up their stands or games for people to enjoy. Many chatting happily, more than pleased to be born in such a unified time in Hyrule's history.

A boy in green rushed through town, panting and rushing to meet with his friend. Link had slept in, again. And he had promised Zelda to be in the garden before noon. And the sun was already high in the sky.

Link panted, rushing through a back ally and to a large stone wall. Pulling out a basic grappling hood, he threw the rope up, letting the hood grab onto the top of the wall. He pulled and started to climb the wall, panting and grunting as he reached the top and hopped over. He looked around, stepping a few feet forward, seeing no one in the magnificent garden and gave a sigh of relief.

"Link!" Zelda's angry voice exclaimed, and Link jumped, dropping his grappling hook. "Why are you late?! Again?!"

Link turned to see the beautiful princess Zelda, her white and pink dress flowing softly with the breeze, blond hair swaying softly and circlet crown shining in the sun. "Zelda! I'm sorry, I slept in, I didn't mean too!" He said in a panic.

His old friemd sighed, face falling into something of sadness. "I apologize. I shouldn't have snapped at you. . ."

"You've been really stressed lately." Link said, frowning. "Do you. . . want to talk about it?"

Zelda nodded, walking away to a stone bench under a nearby tree. Link followed, and sat down after Zelda, not missing how her elf ears drooped. "I. . . must confess, I do not know how to explain this. Oh. . ." she paused "This is quite difficult. . . "

Pulling out an old dusty book, she showed it to Link. "See, recently- exactly a week ago, I was outside here, in the garden when I felt it. Have you ever . . . say. . . dropped a peice of glassware and somehow your parents know even though they were far away?"

Link nodded. "Yea, Mrs. Green somehow knew a broke a pot despite being in town."

Link lost his parents at a young age, and Mrs. Green took him in, teaching him how to garden and care for the earth around them. "These things are a gift from the goddesses." She'd tell him.

"Well, it was like that." Zelda explained. "I was outside, it was a perfect day, and there was still water from the previous night's rain when I felt it. Like something had entered Hyrule uninvited, something. . . Unwelcome, dark, evil. It's not as strong, as if it had left but still, I can feel it's presence Link. Like it left something behind. . ."

Link offered a hand to Zelda. She look at his calloused hand and then his face, to see a kind smile. "I don't doubt it. But today will be the first day of the festival. Let's not let things like taht ruin our moods."

Zelda smiled, and held his hand, her white glove now a little dirty from the dirt under his nails. "You're right. I should at least tell Impa, however."

Link nodded, "What's this book. anyways?" he asked, gesturing ro the book Zelda had brought with her. She took her hand back.

"An old book I found in a forgotten corner of the library, covered in dust. Its a book of old legends. I wanted to show you one." she said, gently opening it and flipping to her book mark. The page had a added painted picture of a dark landscape, covered in fire and death. "It tells about a world that is parallel to our own. This world, the Dark world as this book calls it, has no heavenly guidance and the things that live there have no morals. They did awful things, and attempted to take over the light world. They were defeated by a hero in ancient times and the dark world was closed." Zelda explained. Link nodded, but Zelda only closed the book. "It only speaks of the evil crimes committed, but not of the reason why. That troubles me, even if it truly is a mere story you tell to children so they behave. . ."

A voice called to them, ans Lady Impa appeared, the middle aged sheika still so beautiful and strong, white hair in a bun and sheika armour on. She was a powerful woman, and despite her looks and strength and standing in the royal family, she refused to marry, instead choosing to help raise Zelda.

"Impa!" Zelda said, standing up and leaving the book where she had been sitting. Link followed behind, smiling and bowed to Impa. "Oh, did father decide to let me go to the festival this year?"

Impa smiled, and Zelda beamed, letting out a small squeal before grabbing Link's hand. Link blushed, his ears turning pink as Zelda rushed into the castle. "Lets go, Link! I wnat to see all the nice things there!"

"Now wait a minute, Princess." Impa said, appearing in front of the two. "Your father said I have to accompany you, and that we must wait until he his done with his meeting before you can go." Zelda's ears fell, and Impa continued. "It is only for your safety. He cares for your well being. I promise you will get to see everything that this festival has to offer. Have patience."

Zelda nodded and turned back to Link. "Lets go back outside. It is truly a gorgeous day today." she said, dragging him back outside to the sunlight. . .

»»————-　★　————-««

The Dark world was rarely ever warm. Hot, blistering hot from a volcanic eruption, yes, but it was usually always cool. You'd have to wear some outwear to even go into town, it was always like this. There was no sun, only a moon that would go from full to empty through the hours and then ful again. And occasionally, it would become red. casting the land in crimson colored light.

Unity always had been scarce, and often times forced to keep what little peace there was in the dark world, the fire breathing monsters of Death Mountain, for example, never got along with the monsters and inhabitants of the shadow forest, either the fire kind trying to ignite the forest or the forest monsters messing with teh structer of death mountain. Creatures of the sky always fighting with the village piglins, hoglins and shadow people and the Ku.

It was always difficult to share as well, as food was hard to grow and come by, trees were always empty or dead, or poisonous. Water was heavily guarded by the Ku as well.

However, there were the ones in charge of each region of the Dark world, the strongest of all monsters. The Overlords. Each one ruled over every section of the Dark World.

Speaking of the Overlords, the lead overlord had called a meeting, an urgent one. He was in his palace in the Dark mountains, his main area of rule. He was considered the head of the overlords, as he was created by the God of destruction. Ghirahim made sure to act like it to.

Zant, the overlord of twilight and ruler of the twilight zone, walked through the halls of Ghirahim's palace, his gold shoes tapping agaisnt the floor and his long sleeves following behind him as he walked. Yuga was with him, cape flowing behind him, a circlet with a single stone on his orange hair. Yuga was the overlord of the fallen kingdom of Lorule.

"Zant, I must say," Yuga started, glancing at thr man in thr helmet, "It has been a long while since we have gathered like this. When was the last time we gathered?"

"Two years ago." Zant said "the Zazaks and Hinoxs tryed to dig through Death mountain to the Dark mountains.".

Yuga laughed "Oh Zant! I always aspire to have your memory!" he paused, and hummed hearing the flapping of insects. The men turned to see a swarm of Black and red butterflies and dragonflies approaching. They became a group and formed into the overlord of nature, Reader.

"Reader! Old friend!" yuga said, excited to see the nymph. "Is that a new flower crown? I must say, I will need an exact copy of it for my newest painting!"

"I appreciate you noticing." Reader said, bare feet touching the cold floor, thin clothing made of cotten adored with vines and berries. "I worked hard on growing the new species."

They joined the two overlords in their journey through the halls. These three seemed to get along the best, despite their cruel natures. "I must say-" Reader began "The weed walkers are growing up just nicely, they've learned how to echo locate. I feel like a proud parent."

"That sound wonderful, Reader." Zant said, still looking straight forward. The trio turned and began to climb up a set of spiral stairs to the meeting room.

Reader opened the door, letting the other two enter first. Looking in, they saw Cole, the overlord of energy and head of the train systems in the Dark world. He smiled, his horns freshly polished, for with it looked like. "Ah! Zant, Yuga, how wonderful it is to see you both again! Reader, it is always so refreshing to see someone using their manners!"

"Cole." Reader said, walking over and shaking his stretched out hand, "It is always nice to see you. How are the mines?"

He smiled again, letting out a laugh. "Wonderful, they've found many veins of fuel and metal! In the mist of our mineral crisis, it is such a relief to find."

Reader took their hand back and saw Zant and Yuga sitting down. They went to it in their chair, between Zant and where Ghirahim was supposed to sit. "Where is Ghirahim?" Reader asked, Cole grinned.

"He left to speak to Maud, I believe. Something about a change of clothes." Cole said. Reader hummed, and grew some vines out of their hand, and started to fidget eith the thorns.

The doors opened and Ghirahim entered, swaggering over to his chair and sitting down. "Ah, how wonderful ut is to see you all once more. Where is Vaati?"

"Hasn't arrived." Cole said "I believe he is planing on skipping this meeting."

Ghirahim growled at Vaati's insolence, the missing overlords actions taken as an insult. Reader's ears fell in disappointment. "Ah. . . I see. . ." They said.

"Chin up, sweetie." Yuga said "It is not a big deal, besides, he doesn't deserve your respect."

Suddenly, a glass window slammed opened and the wind picked up, making hair fly and clothing flap until the overlord of wind and ruler of the sky, Vaati, materialize in the room. Reader's ears perked up and the others make a form of being displeased.

"Vaati." Ghirahim started, watching the wind mage sit down in his chair "You're late."

"Duely noted." The purple haired mage said "However, I am here now, am I not?"

Zant spoke up. "Shall we begin the meeting, then?" he suggested, not wanting anyone to start a fight. silence before Ghirahim cleared his throat.

"I'd like to start by saying that the west ocean is starting to haul less food than before, and even that was in need of rationing. Reader," he started, and Reader snapped out of their staring at Vaati "Is there anything you can do about this?"

Reader sighed and shook their head. "Unfortunately, no. If I could create new aquatic life, I'd have to use a sun stone to do so if I want to make non-predatory fish. However, who the mineral crisis happening, I'm afraid I cannot."

Ghirahim huffed "Alright then. Well. . . Other than the flying monsters slowly going out of control-" he glared at Vaati "I shall tell you the reason why I have called you all here."

The room became tense, and all eyes were on Ghirahim. "A week ago, a door to the Light word was opened."

Gasps came from Reader and Cole, Zant sat up straighter, Yuga let our a soft "Excuse me?!" and Vaati -for once- payed full attention to Ghirahim, eyes wide.

"That isn't possible!" Yuga exclaimed, "The only door to the Light world was destroyed eons ago by the old residents of Lorule! Are you saying there was a second door built?!"

"I'm not saying g that exactly." Ghirahim said "I'm saying that somehow, somewhere, an entrance to the Light world was opened. It may have been a door or a portal was ripped open. Either way, a way out of this dying world was made."

Reader squealed a bit. "Oh that is wonderful! Ah, if we could get our hands on such wonderful, such powerful light magic, think of how well off our people will be! The crops would grow again, and fish populations would grow, and think of how the mines and the living beings would prosper!"

"If we could get our hands on the power in that world," Vaati started, "I cannot even begin to imagine the boundless amounts of power I could hold and learn!"

"How do we know this isn't a hoax?" Zabt said suddenly. "If a way to the world of light has truly opened, then how come the Twili haven't become ill or empowered by the influence of power?"

"Then it is most likely a door." Cole said "portals are harder to keep contained, but the doors can lock themselves close. That means we can invade that Light world and take what ever we can!"

Chatter rose up in volume, but Reader tryed to speak up. "But what of our people?! They are not ready to fight a war!"

Their voice was drowned out, until Vaati's wind spiked, whipping around the room, silencing all. Vaati looked at Reader, and their face turned a bit red. "What were you saying?"

"u-um." the started "Thank you, Lord Vaati. If we go to war, with our people nearly on the brick of starvation and so unhappy, wouldn't taht hurt the people and us more?"

Zant spoke "We shall make do. In the end, the power we shall have will be much worth it."

The meeting dragged on, the overlord creating a plan to scout the land for the enter center to the light world, ans lasted until the moon was almost pitch black.

The overlords were departing, Vaati santering to a window when Reader's voice spoke to him. "Lord Vaati." Theysaid, he turned, glaring. "May I speak to you?"

He thought for a moment but agreed, following them to an empty room. Vaati stood near the window, tapping his foot. "Well? What is it? I am a busy king."

Reader lit up brighter than the moon, flowers blooming on their flower crown as Reader told him what they had been dying to tell him all meeting.

"I opened the door to the light world. I know where it is."

｡☆✼★━━━━━━━━━━━━★✼☆｡

Uh oh! A door to the world of light has been found and opened?! This isn't good!

I hope you enjoyed this chapter, have a good day/ night!

The idea of Overlords came from Hazbin Hotel.

[akehoshimystar]

Chapter 3

Boy: Mom!! Kamiya: Ah….

In contrast to the woman whom he called mom, the boy's face instantly changes to one of relief.

Mother: Bandage…? Touma, did you get hurt!? Touma: Well, I did fall. But these people helped me. Mother: Oh, really!? Thank you so much.

His mother turned to us in a panic and did a very deep bow.

Kamiya: It’s okay, we didn't do much. Ito: Um, please lift your head for now. Sei: That's right. We were actually impressed by how strong he is, he didn't cry even after he fell down. Mother: Still…. I'm really sorry for causing you trouble! Touma, I need to apologize to you as well. Because I took my eyes off you….. Touma: As you can see, I'm still fine. Sei: But just to be sure, maybe you should have your mother check the condition of the wound. You will feel more at ease that way, right? Though it’s just a minor scratch, and I've already cleaned it, so I don't think there's anything to worry about. Mother: Y-Yes, I will! Touma, let's go home now.

His mother picked up Touma and bowed to us once more before leaving the park. As she walked away, Touma said "Thank you" to us over her shoulder. He also waved to the cherry blossom tree and said "See you later."

Kamiya: And they’re gone. Sei: Shall we head back as well then? Ito: Yes.

As we were about to reach the exit, I looked back.

Ito: ………. Excuse me for a second. Kamiya: Hmm?

I ran back to the cherry blossom and picked up a lost item.

Sei: That’s his watering can….. Ito: Seems so. Kamiya: Oh, he forgot it. I should have noticed back then. And now I can't see either of them anymore… Sei: There is a chance that he will come back to get it, but he may not notice it right away… There is also a possibility that he will not come back In that case, there is a concern that if we leave it alone, it will either be blown away by the wind or damaged by weather. Especially since the weather has been changing so drastically recently. Kamiya: Right… Maybe we should leave it at police station? Ito: …How about I take care of it for now? Kamiya: Eh? Ito: This place is pretty close to Aporia. If I keep an eye on it, maybe we'll meet again. Sei: I like the sound of that, since he won’t know if it’ll be at police station or not. And it’s better than going out of the way to find their address and deliver it. Not to mention… He said, "See you later". Kamiya: I see. Then I'll also check the park whenever I pass by.

With that said, we agreed that we would check the park when we passed by… and if we spotted the mother and child, we would contact each other immediately. A week had passed since I had been entrusted with the small watering can….

Ito: (Thanks for the meal.)

I had a day off until my evening shift at the café bar, so I took my time enjoying breakfast and took the dishes to the sink. Before I heard a cheerful voice from outside, which stopped me from tidying up.

Ito: (That voice…) Shinobu Look, it’s a rainbow! Kamiya: Ah, that’s cold! You’re going to get water on me!

When I got dressed and went out the front door, I saw Aizawa-kun and Kamiya-kun playing with a hose with big smiles on their faces… along with four polished cross bikes lined up beside them.

Shinobu: Oh, Yashiro-san! Ito: Hello. Are you washing your bicycle? Kamiya: Yeah. The weather is nice and Shinobu-kun said he was free until the evening shift, so we decided to take care of everyone's bicycles at once. Shinobu: Look. Even the corners of the chain are sparkling! While we’re at it, should I wash the front of the entrance as well? Kamiya: Alright, Shinobu-kun. Pour some water on the tiles here. Shinobu: Okay! Kamiya: Too much water pressure!

Kamiya-kun laughed as he dodged the powerful water splash.

Shinobu: Nyahaha. Sorry, seems like I put it at maximum.

Under the clear blue sky, the smiles of the two people were as dazzling as the water droplets reflecting the light. It’s almost as if I was watching a scene from a teen drama. Not long after, the vibration from my smartphone brought me back to reality.

Chapter 4

[gwenxmorenoarchive]

Gwen didn't know how to make sense of all of what she was feeling besides one thing. She was happy and just nearly overtaken with said happiness. It was an addicting feeling, a sort of bubbling joy that also felt almost relaxing. As if it was okay to finally let herself fall into someone's arms. To step back from trying to have some sort of control on her life and to let it go whichever way the wind blew.

A very unusual feeling for her. She loved to have the persona as someone who didn't mind if plans were changed last minute. She loved to let people believe she was as go with the flow as she said. Yet, Gwen knew deep down that might never be her anymore. Last minute changes, unknown whereabouts of the people she cared for, and the weather all played a role in her anxiety.

She never did get anxious with Harris, though. A sign she should've paid more attention too when she thought about it. That he could really be the piece she needed to become the person she was meant to be this whole time. That might've been pushing this new status on their relationship a little too far, but it wouldn't be a lie if she said she wasn't thinking about the future with him.

The smile he had was infectious, as she could fill her own become nearly wide enough, it would start to hurt if she didn't distract herself with getting the coffee cups to put in the microwave. "Well... I won't let this tea go to waste, so I'll heat it up real quick." As he continued to look at her, the more nervous she became. She felt vulnerable under his gaze, as if a thread as come loose to the inside of her heart. Like he could see just what she was made of, and he didn't mind it one bit. "Oh, I'm sure both of our mothers knew. I don't really bring boys home." Or anyone for that matter, but Gwen kept that to herself. The now warmed mugs of tea were brought back to the table, and she finally sat down for once since coming over. "I recall your mom whispering something to me on how happy you've looked recently. Funny enough, I just assumed it was because of the warmer weather." || @callme-harris

Harris had never really moved at the slow but sweet pace in his life. He always felt like the world was going to pass him by if he didn’t try to rush through life but when his mom had gotten sick and his accident had happened it only made him feel like he was losing more and more time. The situation with Gwen proved that if you take your time and let things happen when they’re supposed to, it will work out how it’s supposed to. That there was a sense of peace in just letting the universe work the way it needed to. Life was short but you had to savor the time given to you. Because he was absolutely smitten with her for months and he felt like to was only going to grow more because they had the foundation of their time of getting to know one another.

“ finding happiness is something that should never be shunned. You’re an amazing person and you do so much for your family and for the church. You deserve to smile the way you make others smile “ he noted, understanding that her relationship with the church and what she’d been through had to be a lot to rationalize but share is didn’t think there would be a person there to want to shun her for finding something that made her smile.

Harris’ heart was beating out of his chest at the mention of Gwen being his girlfriend that he was certain he had a big dumb smile on his face when she said she would. He took what she said seriously though. He wasn’t going to break anyone’s heart. If anyone’s heart got broken he hoped it was his own so there’s never would be. “ I have no intention of breaking anyone’s heart. And I’m never going to. Not hers or yours. “ he admitted before leaning to kiss her keep after she kissed his first. He wasn’t going to wipe the lipstick off his cheek at all.

“ we might have to heat them up a bit. We’ve been talking a while “ he teased as he watched her her a bit longer with a small smile on his face. “ I hope so. Things are still the same with my mom. She asked to see when you can come by. I think she knew before we did “ @gwenxmoreno