#should I be packing for an upcoming trip. yes. did I spend all this time doing this instead. also yes

[vaguely-concerned]

the absolute insane research rabbit hole I am currently going down to try to determine the one (1) specific version of the robin hood stories I listened to on cassette tape audiobook in like 2001 and that permanently affected my brain chemistry. I am going nuts. and yet I must know. if anyone by chance should happen to know what version it could have been, considering that it was likely produced in the 90s or a bit before (from memory of the state of the cassette packaging, it was quite worn) and available (in norwegian but in translation) from a small library in somewhat rural norway... please tell me and free me from this self-inflicted torment lol

some more vaguely remembered context that might help pinpoint it:

robin dies at the end, and I think he's already been parted from marian for some time before that (I don't remember if it's because she's dead or just For Reasons, but the growing melancholy of the last few chapters even before he dies were probably what made this version imprint itself on my brain). he's at a convent after falling sick and the abbess or something is an old enemy of his (and maybe his cousin??) and goes whole hog on the bleeding cure to make sure he doesn't get up again. little john (and maybe will scarlet?? some merry man at least) are there with him as he dies and little john cries while robin comforts him. this scene did permanent things to my psyche I suspect. peak 'THIS WASN'T IN THE DISNEY FILM WITH THE FUNNY ANIMALS!!'-betrayal and outrage mixed with 'but also this is so sad it's somehow beautiful...' formative childhood experience.

if I remember correctly there's a bit more of the rest of the merry men than you get in most adaptations. robin and little john had some powerful homoerotic Somethings going on to my baby queer mind but that's just what the robin hood mythos is so idk what that adds to it in terms of helping with the search

I think it must have stuck fairly close to the original ballads that we have, at least comparatively (I've had a looksie and it was definitely not howard pyle's version. I think it had a bit more somber/serious tone especially towards the end, and less of the faux-old fashioned language)

I remember finding it very funny that robin's way of making friends was just finding people who proved they could easily beat him up or were better at stuff than he was and going 'you rule do you wanna join my cool club? :D' and them all being like 'you're an annoying little twerp but also ...yeah <3'. he may also have met marian like that in this or I may be mixing it up with a different version.

from this and some other odds and ends through my downward spiral of obsession I have a tentative theory it may have been either rosemary suthcliff or antonia fraser's versions (both from the 1950s)? but especially with the layer of translation getting inbetween it's so hard to tell haha

I understand if all anyone has to offer when faced with this always sunny conspiracy board of leads is sympathy and/or rightful mockery, but all ideas are welcomed with open arms

[onceuponaoneshotfanfic]

S'mores- Part One

The reader invites Neville Longbottom, her best friend and big crush, camping with her Muggle family.

Neville Longbottom x Reader

1302 words

Author’s Note: It’s been a while since I’ve written anything! But it feels nice to be writing again, especially for my favorite Plant Boy.

The screech of an owl shook me out of my daydreams. I looked up and saw my owl glide into my bedroom, a note tied to his claw. I jumped off my bed and nearly dove at her, my fingers fumbling to untie the paper. My owl shot me a dirty look as I sat back before she went to her open cage, cooing softly.

I practically ripped open the note, my heart skipping a beat as I recognized the sloppy handwriting inside.

Dear Y/N, it read. I did it! Gran said I could go! I can’t wait to spend a week with you and your family. We’re going to have the best time…

I squealed and hugged the letter close to my chest. Yes! Neville Longbottom, my best friend, would be coming on my Muggle family’s upcoming camping trip. It would be the highlight of the summer before our fifth year at Hogwarts began. Neville’s grandmother was originally hesitant to let him go after the events of the previous school year, but apparently Nev’s begging had paid off.

“Can you believe it?” I asked my owl, who barely glanced up from her dinner. Okay, fine, maybe I was the only one in this room excited about Neville. But I knew my parents would be pleased to hear the news. It was, after all, their idea to invite Neville along.

“Mum? Dad?” I called as I bounded down the stairs, still holding Nev’s letter.

My parents were out in the garage, sorting through our family’s camping gear. They smiled when they saw me.

“All good, kiddo?” Dad asked, mild concern on his face.

“Huh?”

Mum nodded. “You’re a bit flushed.”

My hand flew to my cheek. Sure enough, it felt warm. “Oh. Er, must be from running down the stairs.” I shifted awkwardly, knowing they’d easily figure out the real reason for my red face. “I heard from Neville,” I added, trying to keep my voice even as I lifted the letter up so they could see it. “His gran said he can come.”

As expected, their faces lit up.

“Oh, how lovely!” my mum exclaimed. “I should give his grandmother a call to make all the arrangements. Or…” She glanced at me. “Should we send a note?” It always felt strange when my Muggle parents deferred to me for decisions, no matter how small; but when it came to Wizard etiquette, they were still trying to figure things out.

After a moment, I nodded. “Uh, yeah. That would be best. Just write a note to Mrs. Longbottom and I’ll send it over.”

“Ooh, your boyfriend’s coming?” a small voice cooed from the garage doorway. My ten-year-old sister’s face poked around the corner. Mischief gleamed in her eyes.

Somehow my face grew warmer. “Shut up,” I hissed. “Don’t you dare say anything to him, you little-!”

“Y/N,” my dad said with a small chuckle. “Relax. She won’t say anything to embarrass you in front of Nev, will she?” He gave my sister a raised eyebrow, his knock-it-off signal.

My sister sighed; defeated for now.

“Anyhow,” Dad continued, a smirk playing on his lips. “We better get inside. Your mother needs to go write to your boyfriend’s gran.”

His and my sister’s laughs followed me all the way up the stairs.

~

“Is he here yet?” My little sister reminded me of a fly as she hovered around me while I stared out my bedroom window at the street below us.

I shot her a glare. “Not yet,” I answered out of the corner of my mouth. “And don’t you have packing to do?”

She shrugged and planted herself on my bed. “Watching you wait for Neville is much more interesting.” She rested her chin in her hands, a mock-dreamy expression on her face. “Are you going to kiss him when he gets here?”

“Are you going to do this the whole time?” I groaned, darting my eyes back to the window. My sister was quickly by my side. Before she could make her snarky response, I spotted a taxi turning onto our street. The clock on my wall read just past nine; that must be them.

“Move!” I hollered at my sister as I shoved past her. On my way to the stairs, I skidded to a halt at the hallway mirror, as if I hadn’t already spent an hour making myself look good. The slightest amount of makeup (we were, after all, going camping), a perfect ponytail, my favorite t-shirt, and shorts that I hoped Neville would notice. I took a deep breath and jogged down the stairs.

“Y/N!”

I found myself wrapped in a tight hug almost the moment I left the bottom step. My cheeks flushed slightly as I squeezed the arms that held me. Stifling the content sigh that grew in my chest, I let go and stepped back. My heart nearly leapt out of my mouth as I looked at him.

“Nev,” I greeted my best friend. “You look, um-”

Good. The word I was looking for was good. Really good.

He’d grown probably six inches in the weeks since we’d last seen each other. Evidently his gran had finally convinced him to get a haircut, and it worked for him. His face was less round than it was in May, and when I hugged him, I swore I felt some muscles that weren’t there when we said goodbye after getting off the Hogwarts Express.

Crap, I thought to myself, color rushing to my cheeks. Nev got hot.

Neville grinned at me, turning my legs to jelly. How in the world had his smile gone from sweet and boyish to a cheeky smirk?

I’d always liked Neville. Always. Ever since our first year at Hogwarts, when the chubby boy with the frog in his hands offered to help me with my trunk- which he utterly failed at. Watching him turn red in the face and falter under the weight had made my eleven-year-old heart fall hard. Nev was always so sweet and helpful, not to mention silly when he thought no one else was watching. And listening to him talk about herbology was enough to make me swoon.

And now here he stood in front of me, looking less like my goofy best friend and more like the heartthrob I’d always seen him as.

I cleared my throat, realizing I hadn’t finished my sentence. “It’s so great to see you,” I finally finished lamely.

He pulled me into another, quicker hug. “And you! Thanks again for inviting me. I’m so excited!”

Mrs. Longbottom nodded. “Yes. Neville hasn’t stopped talking about this trip since I said he could go.” I turned to her and gave her a quick hug. “Nice to see you, dear.”

“You too, Mrs. Longbottom,” I greeted politely. As many times as Neville assured me that his gran liked me, I always felt a little bit intimidated by the woman. She just always looked at me like she knew something.

“Hiiiiii Neville.” My sister’s sing-song voice came from behind me, causing me to scowl. She appeared by my side, evil smile on her face.

“Hey spud!” Neville gave my sister a fist-bump and reached into his pocket. He handed her a wrapped Chocolate Frog, which made turned her smile from evil to genuine.

My heart melted. Ever since Nev first met my little sister, he made a point to give her a piece of magic candy each time they met. He even had me attach them to my letters home sometimes. Yet another example of him being the best guy in the world.

As my sister squealed and began to rip open the wrapping, Neville and I locked eyes. He shot me a quick wink. Oof. This was going to be a long week of camping.

Part Two!

[zhanyes]

Tianshan dating headcannons because i also love these two dumbasses too

Also dedicated to @el-mundo-real who requested tianshan headcannons 🖤

. . .

- Literally no one knows whether they’re dating or not. Not even themselves because they don’t talk about it

- Jian yi thinks they’re dating already and Zhengxi says they’re still getting there (somehow they’re both right) and they make a bet

- He tian likes staying over at Mo’s and he’s gotten pretty close to mama Mo

- Mama Mo teaches him how to knit !! He tried to knit a scarf for Mo but it came out a little messy and tangled. Mo still wears it anyway saying it’s a waste of yarn if not used (He’s actually really touched)

- He eats dinner there about 5 times a week and sleeps over thrice a week. He’s a permanent fixture in the house now, he has his own plate and mug, utensils, toothbrush, a spare key, and more than half of his closet migrated to Mo’s closet

- Sometimes Mo “accidentally” wears He tian’s sweaters and He tian dies a little bit every time

- Sometimes He tian deliberately wears Mo’s clothes and it’s always tighter and a bit shorter on his body so when he moves his arms the shirt rides up. Mo guanshan shouts at him to change and to stop contaminating his clothes but his ears are red anyway

- They bicker A LOT. Over the smallest things because He tian loves riling him up and Mo gets riled up too easily

He tian, for the 7th time in 5 minutes: “What does this thing do?”

Mo guanshan, losing his mind: “THAT’S A FUCKING MICROWAVE WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU THINK IT DO?!”

- There are times when homicide is the best option

Mo Guanshan: “I acknowledge that I can be mean sometimes-”

He tian, in the bathtub: “Sometimes?”

Mo Guanshan: “Shut the fuck up. So I brought you a bath bomb as a peace offering.”

He tian: “That’s a fucking toaster.”

Mo guanshan: “Exactly. A bath bomb.”

- Contrary to what his actions say, Mo guanshan is actually relieved that He tian spends most of his time in their apartment. He tian never told him but he can see how lonely the other teenager is

- Mo guanshan tries to teach He tian chores because He tian knows nothing about cleaning or doing everyday things

Mo guanshan: “How the fuck do you not know how to wash dishes where the hell do you eat?!”

He tian, drinking milk straight out the carton: “Obviously on plates, Momo. I just throw them away after.”

Mo guanshan, sputtering: “WHY THE FUCK WOULD YOU THROW OUT PLATES?!”

- The first and only recipe that He tian managed to cook successfully is instant noodles with boiled egg that’s not quite cooked enough. Sometimes he brings Mo noodles as breakfast in bed and he looks so proud of it Mo has a hard time saying that the noodles are overcooked and that noodles aren’t exactly breakfast food (he eats it anyway)

- Mo sometimes, only sometimes, brings He tian grocery shopping because he needs to learn how to buy food for himself. Somehow He tian always ends up in the miscellaneous section where he has a pack of ballpens he’ll never use, 2 journals he’ll also never use, a couple of scented candles, various dog clothes and leashes for the dog he doesn’t have, a couple’s mug, and a vase in his cart

- He tian stopped trying to barge into Mo guanshan’s bed and sleeps on the futon on the floor beside it. It’s not the most comfortable and he had a hard time sleeping on it at first but he likes being in Mo’s company even while sleeping

- Sometimes Mo would move in his sleep and leave his arm dangling on the side of the bed, He tian grabs it of course and Mo wakes up to sweaty palms. He still leaves it for a few moments before harshly slapping away He tian’s hand

- Mo’s hands aren’t smooth at all because of working all the time and practicing the guitar but He tian loves them all the same. He likes to feel the contrast in textures with his slightly smoother hands

- He tian has a thousand pictures of Mo guanshan sleeping in various angles and poses. He has his favorites framed and keeps it on his bedside table in his apartment so when he’s sleeping there he still feels like they’re sleeping together

- Mo guanshan has a few of He tian sleeping but he swears up and down that he'll never do anything as disgusting as that. He makes one of them his wallpaper.

- Sometimes when they don’t feel like sleeping yet they stay up talking and arguing about random things

Mo guanshan: “Why would aliens be in space? The ocean is definitely the way to go.”

He tian: “But why would they be in the ocean? They’ll drown.”

Mo guanshan: “They’re aliens maybe they have gills or some shit.”

He tian: “I’m telling you they’re not in the ocean, Mo.”

Mo guanshan: “And I’m telling you you’re wrong, bastard.”

- On rare days they would stay up talking about their pasts and about life in general, with the lights closed and the only source of light is the moonlights from the window

- One of these nights, Mo told He tian about what happened to his dad and their restaurant, why they’re in so much debt over it and He tian holds Mo’s hand tightly throughout

- He knew better than to say that he could pay for that debt so Mo doesn’t need to worry anymore (He still says it anyway and Mo blew a fuse) but he swore to help Mo through other means

- The next day he orders a whole carton of mangoes, apples and peaches in his apartment and learns how to peel properly through youtube and Zhengxi

- He goes to Mo’s part time job in the grocery and helps him peel fruits, Mo guanshan doesn’t mention anything when he notices the bandaids on the other’s hands but he does cook him beef stew for dinner

- As expected He tian’s presence brings more customers and the manager asks if he wants to work there permanently but he said he’s only working for Mo so the manager can give Mo a raise instead

- Once, Mo got sick so he missed his part time job for the day (He was supposed to give away flyers on the streets) and got extra pissy because He tian didn’t visit him and wouldn’t answer his phone 

- Apparently He tian took over his job for the day and he only finds out when he goes to the manager and the manager asks when his ‘boyfriend’ can come back to work again because the customers love him

- He tian almost never talks about himself but once he talked about the puppy who disappeared after he saves it and then found out that it’s still alive after all these years

- Mo keeps quiet about it the whole time he was talking and the next few days he takes time to knit a small dog plushie and leaves it on He tian’s futon

- He tian didn’t cry, he didn’t (he did), but he hugged Mo and whispered a sincere thank you. For once, Mo lets it happen

- Mo quickly regrets his decision when He tian names the plushie “Chicken sandwich”

- He tian brings Mo in a lot of not-dates (according to Mo) like arcades, ocean parks, festivals, and fairs because he didn’t get to go as a kid and he wants to experience it for the first time with Mo

- They get crazy competitive in every game. Every. Single. One. If it’s a co-op shooting game they would compete on who kills the most enemies, if it’s a harmless crane game it becomes a competition of who can get the most plushies

- They both each have a photobooth strip. Mo keeps his as a bookmarker in a journal, and He tian has his in the back of his phone.

- They go on a double not-date with Jian yi and Zhengxi and it ends up in almost getting chased by a police car at 2 am in pokemon onesies and holding a bag of chips 

- Sometimes Mo would visit his dad in prison and just rant to him about He tian

Mo guanshan: “The nerve of that guy to do something like that in front of a teacher urgh.”

Papa Mo: “Your boyfriend sounds like a fun guy, son. I want to meet him soon.”

Mo guanshan: “BO-BOYFRIEND?!”

Papa Mo: “Yes???”

Mo guanshan: “No??? That bastard isn’t my boyfriend??”

Papa Mo: “Are you sure about that?”

Mo guanshan: “...Yes?”

- Enter gay panique because he doesn’t actually know whether He tian is his boyfriend or not

- They don’t call each other boyfriends and they never talked about it so no??? But they’re also not just friends so maybe??? Do they go on dates?? Can grocery trips be considered dates??

- He rings up Jian yi and the blonde just laughed for 5 minutes straight without stopping and he wonders how he’s still breathing

Mo Guanshan, after hearing Jian yi laughing for 5 minutes: “Are you fucking done?”

Jian yi, trying to catch his breath: “Man this is some top-tier entertainment.”

Mo guanshan: “WELL?!”

Jian yi: “Look bro literally no one knows whether you’re dating, fucking, planning each other’s murder OR planning a murder together.”

Mo guanshan: “What if it’s all of the above?”

Jian yi: “Then congratulations…? Please don’t murder me?”

Mo guanshan: “Urgh you’re fucking useless I should have called Zhengxi.”

Jian yi: “Wait don’t, I don’t wanna lose the bet. How about this, there’s a festival upcoming for couples and families, if He tian asks you then you’re probably, maybe, dating?”

Mo guanshan: “That’s stupid. AND WHAT BET?!”

Jian yi: “Ah woops gotta water my dog.”

- Mo tells himself that it’s stupid and there’s no way he’s falling for that...but he feels disappointed anyway when He tian doesn’t ask him the following days

- He tian asks on the last day before the festival, but he asks mama Mo first and Mo guanshan second cuz he wants to celebrate with both of them. He confessed that he’s never actually went to a festival with a family before so he was trying to build up courage to ask

- Mo guanshan is an absolute goner after that

- On the day of the festival, they find Zhanyi there on a date but decide to leave them alone. While they were leaving Jian yi kept throwing Mo guanshan so much winks that Zhengxi thought he got something in his eye

- The festival was fun but Mo couldn’t take his eyes off how happy and content He tian looks

- Queue cliche fireworks scene but it’s He tian being amazed by the fireworks and Mo looking mesmerized at him thinking, “Ah, I want him to look at me like that.”

- The next day, he drags He tian to visit his dad in jail

Papa mo: “Oh this is a surprise, you’ve never brought someone before?”

He tian, trying to introduce himself: “Hello, sir. I’m He tian, Mo guanshan’s fri-”

Mo guanshan, cuts him off: “Boyfriend. He’s my boyfriend, dad.”

He tian:

[stuckybarton]

Manifestation of Happy Endings

SUMMARY: "Everyone deserves a happy ending, even you." CHARACTERS: Stephen Strange x Reader; Wong. Cloakie [Cloak of Levitation], Wong. Asshole Tony Stark. WARNINGS: Slight Angst. Brief Description of A Kiss. Toxic Way of Moving on from An Ex(for Tony, not the reader) WORDS: 2,704 MASTERLIST || Join the Taglist

~

Part 4 STREETLIGHT

One of the things Stephen Strange had never thought he would ever have in his life again was a woman he loved--loving so much that he was willing to endure what he was in this very moment.

Nothing scared him more than having to think of the perfect way to propose to his girlfriend. Nothing scared him shitless than the idea of you rejecting his proposal and the crack begins to form in your stable relationship.

You were doing alright, for the past few months since you started dating Stephen--or at least that was what Stephen had gotten out of Wong whenever the two of you would be deep in conversation in either the library or the kitchen.

With his responsibility as the Sorcerer Supreme and helping saving the Universe on a daily basis, he never had a perfect opportunity to propose. And when he did found the momentary courage, you would be pulled into a book tour all around the country, leaving him to device a plan with Wong on how to actually propose.

"Maybe a candlelit dinner?" Wong had offered, attention still focused on the new book you had given him--the very reason as to why you were gone for well over a month now.

"Too predictable." Stephen snorted.

Candlelit dinner was already a common occurrence between the two of you, with the rare free time, you'd often find yourself just making a hearty meal for the two of you while Stephen was in charge of setting the mood in the dinner table. It was better than heading to a restaurant, getting recognized, and having to deal with the news still circulating about you and your separation from Tony Stark all those months ago.

"Then do something you won't usually do." Wong continued on turning the page to your book.

You loved going on walks. Even with the daily chaos of New York Streets could offer, you always loved being able to go outside, look around and get as much inspiration as you could for any upcoming books you were writing. Outside to some fresh air and sunlight you often tease Stephen of not having enough of because of his duties.

Maybe taking you out on a hike somewhere could be good. A good change of pace, then he could find a perfect spot to just bend on one knee and asked you to be his wife.  Easier said than done when he comes to think more through with the plan. He doesn't know any good hiking trails in New York and it looked more taxing for either of you.

"She says she always wanted to go on road trips across the country." Wong finally made a suggestion. "Why don't the two of you drive to Vegas or something else hedonistic for once."

The suggestion doesn't sound too bad. You did enjoy car rides, Stephen had come to realize. Since his accident years ago, he tried his best to avoid car rides, mostly not needing to since he could create portals to travel to different location his mind can conjure. The first time he had actually enjoyed being inside a car that wasn't his own was with you, as you two made your way to lunch.

He could still remember the way you would allow him to pick the song for the quick ride and how you would jam to whatever was on the radio. It brought a smile on his face now, remembering the patience of a saint you had whenever he would act like a backseat driver if you turn into a different route.

A thirty hour drive would be a nightmare for him, but if he had you, it doesn't sound as bad.

Before he could conjure up the plan, the simple ding of his phone brought his attention away from his plan. A text from you, from a phone you had hesitantly brought under your agent and manager's insistence.  It also meant Stephen had more use of his own and Wong somehow found himself with one as well thanks to you--not wanting him to be left out.

Stark is here. I don't know what to do.

"I'll be right back." Stephen told his friend before conjuring a portal with his sling ring to bring him to California where you were currently having your Open forum.

~

In an audience capacity of a thousand, Alex Theatre was full pack. But among the faces in the crowd. A handful had stood out the most. Tony Stark, Happy Hogan, and one Peter Parker. It was hell and sending Stephen a quick text about it was the only solution you could think of at the moment.

You were to be talking to the audience for a good hour and a half and be open for a few questions, but just the fact that the people you wanted nothing to do with anymore was in the room had you scared.

You no longer had the feelings you once had for Tony, but you were simply scared of the repercussions that would come with Stephen knowing about it.

You knew that Stephen would try confronting Tony, but that would complicate the situation more than it should. Knowing you refused to let any of them know your whereabouts or the fact that you were closer than any of them had actually thought you would be.

"Y/N?"

At the familiar voice of your boyfriend, you were momentarily felt at ease as you tried your best to calm down and stop the possible mental breakdown you were having knowing your ex was in the building. The backstage looked smaller than it really was.

Wrapped in his arms, the fear was placed at ease. You rested your cheeks on his chest, arms sliding around his waist as he pulled you closer to him. Hands cradling the back of your head.

"You okay?" He asked.

You didn't respond, instead pulling him closer to you. Fearing that if you let him go now the man would make his way to the audience and talk some sense to Tony.

"I'm nervous about this, even if he wasn't here." You muttered.

This was the first tour you had done in years. Having lost inspiration in writing because of the stagnation in your relationship, you were still worried about what the world would react to your new book, how they would think of you now that you were no longer the woman constantly attached to Tony Stark's side in public events.

As much as your team had constantly hyped you up, with colorful reviews on your latest book, it was still different from the last one you had done, the difference was caused by this man in front of you, holding you into him like you were made of fine porcelain.

It was difference you always needed in your life, but you fear the reception of it wouldn't be well received by your supporters and your fanbase.

"Let's drive to Vegas after your tour." Stephen's suggestion had surprised you.

You were expecting his usual dry humor, but you were welcomed with something entirely different from the man. Driving across country was something you always wanted to experience, but knowing Stephen's accident, you never suggested the activity.

"I'm driving." You were quick to volunteer.

"I expecting nothing less." He smirked looking down at you. For a moment, you couldn't help but just look down at him. How his blue eyes could look at you like they did, adoration and love. "Want to get married in Vegas?" He offered.

The last question had you shoving him away and glaring at him. The hell was he talking about.

"That's not funny, Strange." You warned.

"It's not a joke." Stephen assured with a smile.

And just like that, the man had fallen to this knees in front of you. The people backstage were witnessing and squealing on your behalf as you stood stock still in front of the man.

"I was planning on proposing on our drive to Vegas, but now is a good time as any to do so. Y/N Y/L/N, you had turned my world upside down the moment you fall face first in the café all those months ago, how you had repaid me with coffee and a deli sandwich when it was my cloak that saved you. How you made the sanctum a home, how you became a part of the team in your own special way. I love you and I wish to be able to spend the rest of my days with you. "

You were left dumbfounded and before you could do anything, you fell to your knees in front of the man even before he could ask you the question, you had said yes. Over and over you had accepted his proposal even without hearing the question. You were happy with Stephen, more than you had ever thought you would ever be since.

"Yes. A million times yes." You muttered wrapping your arms around him and kissing him square on the lips. After a moment of clapping from the people backstage, the momentary embarrassment had settled you but Stephen was quick to make the situation better.  Standing the two of you back up to your feet, he had finally opened the velvet box to a sight that took your breath away.

A vintage, emerald cut diamond ring. Plucking the ring with his shaky hand he had slid it onto your ring finger before kissing your hand. An affection you were so used to seeing from Stephen at the privacy of the sanctum or your apartment.

"I can't be like Tony and give you the world, but I'll be me and give you my life and the time I left when I'm not saving the world to you."

You smiled at his promise. It was reasonable, a part of him that you will never make him choose between.  Knowing he was going to be making an effort was enough for you as you nodded and kissed him once again before you were finally announced to head out.

"I'll be waiting here, break a leg!" Stephen smiled breathless as you finally stepped out to the crowd, a quick round of applause had sounded as you made your way to the podium. Hugging the MC for the event before turning to face everyone, including the likes of Tony Stark in the crowd.

"Sounds like something important happened backstage." The MC smiled knowing how he had to drag the introductions longer than needed because of what Stephen had done.

"My boyfriend proposed to me." You beamed showcasing the ring that now wrapped around your finger to the crowd.

"Congratulations. Who's the lucky guy?" The MC inquired and for a moment your eyes turned towards Tony, and for once you finally saw something you had never thought you'd see in his eyes. Regret. It wasn't satisfaction that you felt, more like this closure you never thought you could have left after all was said and done with him.

"He's a private guy. But I'm happy, the happiest I had ever been in my life." You responded before turning your eyes back towards the curtains where you saw Stephen was watching, a beaming smile was on his face. "He's actually watching backstage," you turned back to the crowd. "So if by any chance I stop mid sentence throughout, it's still the adrenaline from his proposal manifesting, so blame him okay?" You teased earning a laugh from the crowd.

"So I don't need to ask it then, who is your muse for your new book?"

You blushed hesitantly turning to Stephen as the humor lingered on his features. It was an open secret that he was but it's weird having to say it with him in attendance. Easier when he was miles away from you.

"If you're happy, you become inspired." You shrugged hoping that is enough explanation for it. "And from the reviews I've gotten since the book's launch, everyone could see that." You beamed.

"So before we get started in the plotline and the theme of the story, can you tell us about the process of this book from your head to the printing press?"

You cleared your throat knowing that this question would be coming. It wasn't long before you needed to address it and knowing now would be the best time to do so before you finally close the chapter in your life for good.

"I've been in a slump for over a year and a half, my agent and my editors couldn't bring me into writing anything substantial, I blame myself and what my previous relationship had done to me." You spoke honestly, eyes momentarily focusing towards Tony before lingering back to the listening crowd. "It's one thing to be in a relationship filled with arguments and resentment; it was another when you're the only one trying in the relationship that everything else in your life seems--meaningless."

You could still remember the life you had wasted for the years of being with your ex. How you had loved finally gaining your independence and being able to be happy again without needing to think about him and his well being most of the time.

"I found myself out of that environment and found myself in a much different one. I met this man in the café, saved before I face planted onto the floor in front of the bustling crowd. And the rest as they say is history." You added. "Because of this said man, I've found myself writing more than I thought I'd actually do since moving on from my ex. I'd be in his library for hours on until I could see the moonlight glowing below the two of us. And I just found myself writing a love story instead of a story about moving on."

You somehow found yourself chuckling at the last bit as you had come to realize something about your relationship with Stephen.

"I'm actually going to marry my rebound." You had announced somehow far too proudly earning a laugh from the crowd in the process. "So ladies and gentlemen, if you think the most serious relationship you have right now had failed, there is always someone out there meant for you. You just need to get out of your comfort zone."

~

"You two look ridiculous." Wong was quick to point out as the beaming smile on both of your faces lingered.

An hours previously, you had been officially married to Dr. Stephen Vincent Strange. Wearing the same dress you had on during your talk and only now adorned in a small veil you've purchased in the Vegas strip as you and Stephen had looked for a semi-decent individual to officiate your wedding.

You made it evident that Wong should also be joining, not just as a witness but as part of the family. The man had been there throughout the start of your relationship and it was only fitting to have him in this new chapter as well. Married and whatever the universe would throw the two of them from this day forward.

"We can always go to a strip club to celebrate." Stephen had teased, arm wrapped around your shoulder as the three of you had walked around the strip, caring less at this point if anyone would recognize any of you.

You smiled agreeing playful just to see Wong stutter and try his best to change the subject.

"We promise that the bigger wedding would be more tame than this." You had assured your friend. "And Stephen will make you his Best man." You had pointed out to your--husband.

The word felt still as foreign in your tongue but a welcome change it seems. Holding onto Stephen's free hand, the rings you've picked from the nearby jewelry store was perfect in it's own special way. The streetlight glowing all throughout made the rings sparkle and the smile on your face growing bigger than ever.

"Why do I think he will go more bridezilla than you?" Wong teased earning a glare from Stephen but the lack of a genuine retort made it evident between the three of you how right Wong's word were.

[annieharkness]

Glimpses: Part 12 (Kathryn Hahn x Fem!Reader)

Part 1 // previous chapter <<< >>> next chapter

Summary: Will you be able to go with Kathryn?

Word Count: 2k

A/N: This is a little shorter, I know, but I hope all of you still enjoy it. Look at this little tag list we have going on now!! - I might actually get a little emotional that so many of you are still reading this little story. With all that being said, here we gooooo. xx

Tag List: @danvers97 @zafirosreverie @srtamercurio @wanatag @pulledbythestars17 @plantowl​

Don't forget to check out the new official Playlist! :)

_____________________________________________________________________________

“You can’t take her.” Jennifer is walking up and down in Kathryn’s office. She arrived here right after you had left, ready to plan to thrip to New York, as well as the upcoming project. Kathryn shifts her focus from her hand to her manager and huffs. 

“NO. Kathryn, no. You know it yourself. First of all, she is a distraction. Yes, you like her, I KNOW, but this is not you. This is not how you do your job.” Jennifer looks at her boss with pleading eyes.

Running her fingers through her long mane, Kathryn bites the insides of her cheek. “you’re right, I know you are, but at the same time…”

“NO BUTS, Kathryn.” Jennifer interrupts her, prompting Kathryn to shoot her a short glare. 

“…but at the same time I haven’t been this happy in years.” Thinking back at the time you spent with her, a small smile creeps onto her face.

Jennifer gets it. She understands Kathryn’s point, but as her manager it’s her job to secure the actress’ job, which is why she needs to make sure there are as few distractions from work as possible included in the trip.

Placing a hand on her arm, Jennifer looks at Kathryn with warm eyes. “Sweetie, I know you don’t like it. I don’t like it either, because I know how good the time with her is for your heart. But we can’t have this. Not now. Not during your shining moment. Yeah?”

Slowly but surely, Kathryn starts to nod as she can feel the sadness rise in her chest.

Meanwhile, you and Alex are having the same conversation back in your room. She tries to talk sense into you and talks animatedly to her phone, as you try to find a way to accompany Kathryn.

“Honey, you simply can’t. There is no way. It’s during the exam phase. You can’t be abroad for that.” She shakes her head.

Considering your options, you try to talk against her. “I could ask for online exams.”

“… there is a multiple hour time difference - you can’t be serious, Y/N.”

“I could postpone exams?” You raise an eyebrow.

Alex shakes her head harder now. “NO GIRL. No. Kathryn wouldn’t want you screwing up your education for this. You have leftover classes, exams to write and then you’ll have to write term papers you have to prepare for,” you take a visible breath. “Yes love, I am aware you could write those on set but we all know you wouldn’t. It’s better for you to stay.”

You want to argue. You really do. But there are a few things holding you back. First of all, you know Alex makes a valid point. Second of all, you don’t even know where you are standing with Kathryn. What are you to her? What is happening with her? The lines are so blurry that it’s hard for you to see, so you think it might be better not to assume and make a fuss about all of it.

Lastly, you don’t even know if she wants to have you by her side in the first place, because, again, it’s not like she is your girlfriend or anything. Not that you wouldn’t want her to be.

So, just like Kathryn does with Jennifer, you agree to what Alex says and make your decision to stay, even though it hurts your heart just as much as it hurts hers.

Given the fact, that she has to leave for New York right the next morning, it’s not possible for you to see her again. You think back at the soft kiss she planted on your lips as you left her house under yesterday’s hot afternoon sun. You feel so good with her and you can’t stop to think back at how beautiful her eyes look up close - even more beautiful than on all her pictures that Alex and you have been sending back and forth whenever Kathryn did a new promo shoot.

It’s late afternoon as you’re lying on your bed and stare at the ceiling, a random Marvel movie running in the background.  Alex has been trying to hype you up all day, but, given the fact that Kathryn is gone for an unforeseen time, you still feel sad.

You turn off the movie because you can’t seem to concentrate and connect your phone to the speakers to play some music. You remember that you can sit on your windowsill that’s facing the backyard and and decide to sit down and watch the birds in the tree outside your window as you open Spotify and it starts playing the last song you stopped on. “She” by dodie fills the room and you don’t think you related to a song like that ever before.

It really describes the feelings of uncertainty that you have right now. It doesn’t help that you never really took the chance to talk to her about all of not. Not properly, at least. This mistake leaves you with this endless feeling of emptiness that seems like it’s eating you up from the inside as you don’t even know if she feels the same in any way. 

Your phone chimes and you nearly fall off the windowsill as you shoot up to reach for it. It’s the group chat you thought had died a while ago that you joined right after Kathryn appeared on Wandavision. 

Apparently, news of Kathryn’s casting already sank through and everyone is screaming about it. Unwilling to share any knowledge, and also way too careful with it, you want to put your phone away as it chimes again and your eyes widen.

You immediately click the message.

“New York is wild! Haven’t had time to get to you yet. Seems like everyone and their mom wants to speak to me today. Just left my second meeting and now I have to leave for a work dinner in a few. How’s the day going back home? xxx K.”

A bright smile creeps onto your face as you realize she uses the “everyone and their mom” phrase that you use so much whenever you describe difficult situations to her. You decide not to reply immediately - you don’t want her to assume you are sitting on your phone just waiting for her. 

Instead you opt to create some art and grab your supplies. There is an empty canvas behind your bed and you feel like there are enough feelings trapped in you to create something cool on it.

Your mom works long on Mondays, so you haven't realized just how much time has passed as you perform the last of the night and call it a day. Your picture is colorful. Very much so. The acrylic paint hasn’t even dried yet, but there are already tons of ideas floating around in your head about what to do with the artwork from here on out. Maybe you should get some fine liners and work out the edges, maybe do some highlighting as well, you don't know yet.

Just as you want to put the brush aside your phone lights up on your bed. You can't pick it up just now because the slowly drying paint sticks to your fingers and you anxiously reach for the closest paper towel to white it off as best as you can. Not expecting anything, you finally reach for your phone and pick up the call before reading the name - an automatic reaction to late night calls from Alex.

You are greeted by a very familiar, yet unexpected, face. Kathryn smiles into the camera and adjusts the lights around her. She is clearly in her pjs, with no make up on, her hair open and messy, falling off her shoulder. You can see she is wearing a loose gray shirt and your whole body starts tingling as you realize it's the shirt she gave you to sleep in last weekend. Immediately, your brain runs wild and you try to figure out if she packed this exact shirt on purpose or just grabbed the one that was available easiest as she was probably in a rush.

Luckily, Kathryn interrupts your train of thought. “Hey! Hiya hon! I just wanted to check in. Make sure you’re alright because you haven’t replied to my message.”

For the first time you look at the clock. It’s 8.30pm and you haven’t had dinner yet.

“Shit.”, you mutter and your hand flies to cover your mouth immediately. 

Kathryn, who hasn’t heard your muttering, looks confused. “Sweetheart, is everything alright?”

You smile thankfully. “Yes! Yes it is. I guess I was just wrapped up in my art and you pulled me out of it and I always need a minute to adjust. I’m fine. It’s late though and I haven’t eaten yet. Thank you for reminding me.”

“Good. Do you want me to order you pizza or something. Because I totally would.” She reaches for a notepad.

“Alright Mom…” she looks at you for a moment and you can’t tell if she is shocked or amused or anything really because she stopped reacting completely and just stares at you. Right when you are about to start panicking about the situation she bursts into laughter.

“I mean I’M SORRY. How dare I offer pizza.” She continues laughing. You love this. This is easy and light and you realize once again just how much you enjoy her company. Gosh, you miss her already.

You remember her message as you make your way downstairs. “How was dinner, Kathryn? And the rest of your day? Tell me about it!”

For the next 10 minutes, as you prepare your own dinner, she tells you about her day and the plans for the next few weeks. The two of you laugh and make jokes and for a moment it seems like both of you have forgotten that you won’t see each other for a while. After she finishes talking, you fall into a comfortable silence and just look and smile at each other for a moment.

“I like you, you know?” She is the one to interrupt the silence. “Spending time with you makes me really happy and I’m sad you can’t come to Europe with me. I need you to know. I wish I could’ve taken you with me.”

Your heart melts and your hands start to shake as you realize Kathryn might indeed feel the same way. You put the knife, that’s in your hand from making dinner, aside. You’re unable to answer right away and fight for the right words, so she continues on with her short monologue.

“I just wanted to call tonight to check in and see how you are doing since I had to kick you out so abruptly last night and maybe we can do this from time to time, check in on each other? I would love that.”

Check in on each other? Why is she so vague all the time? For a moment you thought she’d confess her feelings for you but here you are again, uncertain of what she really thinks about you. You smile, though, and try to keep it calm because you don’t want her to get annoyed with you already.

You realize it’s getting close to 9pm, which means it should be about midnight at her place. Taking responsibility, you send her off to sleep and have a short dinner followed by some reading yourself.

Before Kathryn hangs up, she promises you to call again before leaving for Europe completely. She also wants to know if you want a souvenir from NYC (why is she so cute?) and tells you to call her anytime you need something or someone. With that, she shoots you the brightest smile and leaves you to it.

The ecstatic feeling you felt when you talked to her fades quickly as you come down from the call. Suddenly, your home feels all quiet and lonely and the silence is killing you. You walk back up to your room to sit on your bed and stare out of your window to enjoy the night sky. The tree right next to your room is slowly moving in the wind as its branches scratch the glasses surface.

You decide to call it a day as the week ahead is full of work and school and the weekend was eventful, so you change into comfy clothes and get ready for bed immediately. You fall onto your bed a few minutes later just as your phone lights up again.

"Good night, Sweetheart. It was great seeing your face. xxx K."

[nugnthopkns]

dance me to the end of love (i)

word count: 4.3k

warnings: fem!oc, cursing, potential spoilers for the west wing if you've never seen the show

series masterpost: here

a/n: hi!! i am so incredibly happy to finally be putting this fic out into the world. it means an awful lot to me and i can't wait to share the little world i've created :)) x

Magdalene is content with where she’s ended up.

Denver is wonderful. Her friends are there, her cat is there, and it’s the perfect place for a fresh start. She arrived in the city nearly six years ago – a wide-eyed University of Denver freshman and has stayed put ever since. Her hometown of Aspen holds a few too many bad memories, but is close enough that she can return if an emergency calls for it. So far she hasn’t left, too engrossed in finishing her degree and moving on. There’s a job offer lined up with the university’s library upon graduation that Magdalene is ecstatic about. It means she gets to stay right where she is – where she’s comfortable.

☼☼☼☼

The sun might be shining as she exits her apartment building, but it’s cold for March. Magdalene pulls the thick scarf her best friend Bette got her for Christmas higher up her face and walks as quickly as possible to campus. There’s a brief meeting to attend with her advisor before grabbing lunch with Bette, and then her plan is to spend the rest of the day holed up in the library working on her thesis. It’s due in two weeks, with the defence in just over a month, and Magdalene is incredibly nervous. Though she’d gone through submitting her undergraduate thesis two years ago, presenting her master’s research was going to be a lot harder. She’s heard through the grapevine that the committees are being tough this year and she doesn’t want to fail.

Dr. Williams is waiting for her in his office with a smile on his face. He’s a tall man, with thin facial features and wire glasses that box him perfectly into the intimidating professor stereotype. “Miss Stevenson, please sit,” he gestures to the chair across from him.

“Gerald,” she sighs, “You can call me Magdalene, I don’t mind. Besides, it makes you quite the hypocrite if you insist I call you by your first name but you won’t use mine.” There’s no malice in her voice, just a decent amount of teasing.

The older man scoffs but concedes. “I suppose you’re right. Well then Magdalene, tell me, how are your final edits coming along?”

Magdalene spends nearly twenty minutes detailing all the elements she has tweaked since their last meeting, from the title to the citation style. She’s out of breath by the time she’s done, rambling at an impressive speed, and takes a big gasp of air while the professor mulls over her words. Dr. Williams doesn’t say anything, causing Magdalene to shift anxiously in her seat. “Sir, is there something wrong?”

He shakes his head. “Absolutely nothing,” he beams, “Everything is perfect. It’s a shame you don’t want to continue researching. You’d make a fabulous academic.”

The compliment makes Magdalene’s heart soar. It means a lot, especially coming from the person who has seen her cry over the oxford comma. “Thank you sir, but I belong in the practical realm. Someone has to file all the documents you obsessively scan.”

She leaves the building soon after, promising to stop by after she drops off the final draft in a few weeks. It’s a bit later than she expected and hopes Bette won’t be mad. There’s nothing the blonde hates more than poor time management, but Magdalene prays she’ll understand. It wasn’t that long ago and Bette was scheduling her own appointments with advisors on how to graduate. Barn Owl Book Company is located halfway between the school and her apartment, making it the perfect spot to meet. In addition to being a used book store, Barn Owl sports one of the best cafés in downtown Denver. Bette is perched delicately at her friend’s favourite seat, a bay window converted into a small nook, and typing furiously on her phone.

“Sorry I’m late,” Magdalene apologizes, “Williams talked a lot more than I expected him to.”

Bette looks up and smiles, shoving a cup in the other girl’s direction. “As always. How is he?”

Sliding into the booth, Magdalene fills her friend in on what’s been going on in their former professor’s life. Bette graduated with a minor in Classics, and it was Magdalene's major, but the former decided not to further her education and is instead doing full time charity work for the Colorado Avalanche. Her boyfriend Tyson is one of their star players, and the two of them are so smitten it makes Magdalene sick. Conversation quickly turns from school to life, which she’s grateful for.

“So,” Bette says, “Are you in for the trip this summer? I’ve got to confirm the reservation in a week or something.”

“I don’t know Bee, I'm going to be the new girl. Asking for time off like two months into the job would be rude.”

“Linny,” the blonde whines, “Please? I want you to come.”

Magdalene scowls. Bette knows just how much the nickname sours her mood but she chose to use it anyway. “Don’t call me that,” she snaps with quite a bite. “Can someone else take my spot if I decide not to go a little closer to the date?”

“Of course! Gravy said he’d fill an extra spot if one comes up so we don’t lose the deposit,” Bette blabs before trying to switch gears entirely. Magdalene cuts her off.

“Who’s Gravy?”

If her friend is exasperated by Magdalene’s lack of knowledge surrounding hockey, she doesn’t show it. Bette calmly explains that Gravy, who’s real name is Ryan, is a defenceman with the Avalanche and a good friend of Tyson’s. She also makes a point of mentioning that he’s single, to which Magdalene rolls her eyes. Bette has a masterplan for her life – which includes her best friend becoming romantically involved with an Avalanche player so the two of them can live the better half life together. As the best friend, Magdalene is constantly barraged with potential players who are looking to date. Once she went on a few dates with Mikko, but that ended fairly quickly when the two realized they were better as friends. Every time since she’s turned Bette down as gently as possible, not wanting to get involved with anyone. Her life is just starting, and Magdalene wants to be secure before settling down.

The conversation eventually shifts to what Magdalene plans to wear for both her thesis defence and graduation. Bette is fashion savvy, while Magdalene is decidedly not. Her everyday wardrobe consists of collared button-downs and sweater vests, which is supposedly never going to back a comeback, according to Bette at least. The blonde eventually wears Magdalene down, and secures a position as stylist for the graduation ceremony. There was an attempt at the thesis defence, but the other girl insists she needs to be as comfortable as possible on such a stressful occasion.

A glance to the clock on the opposite wall has Magdalene stretching her arms and giving an apologetic glance to her friend on the other side of the table. “I should go,” she says. “I’ve got to put in some serious work on my citations today, and you know Caligula doesn’t like it when I’m gone all day.”

Bette rolls her eyes, but there isn’t any frustration behind the gesture. “I swear to god Mags, your cat has more separation anxiety than I do. Speaking of, I’m supposed to pick Tyson up at the airport and I’m running behind.”

“Tell him I say hi,” Magdalene says as she wraps her arms around Bette for a quick hug.

The two girls part ways on the sidewalk, with Magdalene heading back to campus and Bette sliding into the sleek Audi she shares with her boyfriend. Headphones find their way into her ears, and Magdalene listens to a random comedy podcast. Once tucked safely inside the library she’ll put on her favourite lo-fi playlist and concentrate, but for now she just enjoys the funny anecdotes of stories past.

It’s quiet in the library for a Tuesday, though Magdalene isn’t complaining. Her favourite table, the one she swears up and down is the only reason she ever gets anything done, is open, and she all but sprints to place her bag on the worn leather chair. While setting up her work station a few of the librarians come over to offer their congratulations for her upcoming job. News certainly travels fast around here, Magdalene thinks, but accepts their generosity with a smile on her face. They leave her alone soon enough and the tedious work of double checking the formatting of every single citation in the sixty-five page paper begins.

Hours pass, and Magdalene stays working in the library until as late as she possibly can. Caligula is going to start to worry about the length of her absence soon and his anxiety response of knocking over plants is not a mess she feels like cleaning up. She packs up her laptop and walks the short distance home as fast as possible.

“Little boots, I’m home,” Magdalene parrots in a sing-song voice as she slips her jacket off her shoulders and onto the hanger. At the sound of his nickname, the small cat bounds into the entryway. “Hi darling, did you miss me?” Magdalene gets an obnoxiously loud purr in response that she takes it as a yes. She reaches down to pick up the tiny animal before continuing further into the apartment, scratching behind his ears as she does so. The two of them settle into the respectably sized couch, where they stay for the rest of the night watching reruns of The West Wing before Magdalene falls asleep.

☼☼☼☼

“You fucking did it!” Bette shrieks as she bounds towards her best friend. Magdalene braces herself for the oncoming assault, and manages to keep them both upright after Bette jumps into her arms.

Her thesis defence had just finished, and the committee found Magdalene a worthy candidate for the Master of Information Science qualification. The presentation itself was open to the public, so Bette and Tyson sat in the front row to support Magdalene, but were escorted out for the conversation that followed. The two girls had developed a code so the news could be shared in a subtle way, though Bette threw the original plan out the window as soon as she saw her friend give a sneaky thumbs up when the conference room door opened.

“Congrats Mags,” Tyson says sincerely, doing his best not to add to the growing spectacle, but Magdalene can tell he wants to give her a bone crushing hug.

“Thank you,” she smiles softly, “And thank you guys for coming. It means a lot.” As two of her closest friends, both Bette and Tyson know that her family situation is rocky at best, and having them act as her support system means more than she’ll ever be able to articulate.

The couple shares a knowing look before engulfing their friend in a hug. “We’re always going to be here for you,” Bette whispers, “No matter what.”

Magdalene’s smile is so genuine it crinkles her eyes as she wraps her arms around Bette and Tyson’s shoulders and leads them out the door and into the sunshine. The group continues to the parking lot, where they climb into Tyson’s car and drive off campus in the direction of Magdalene’s favourite restaurant. Though she had tried to convince her friends they didn’t need to celebrate, she failed, and Magdalene soon finds herself laughing hysterically over a plate of carbonara as Tyson tells a story about the shenanigans the team got up to on their last road trip.

There’s a game tonight, and Bette has somehow convinced her into attending. Magdalene knows she should go, expand her social horizons a little, but all she wants to do is curl up in bed and sleep for three weeks. Her one condition is that she can go home straight after the game without being guilted into following the group to whatever nightclub they’ll celebrate the win or drink away the loss in. Tyson has to get ready so he drops the two girls off at Magdalene's apartment complex. She’s in charge of getting Bette to the rink, and she’ll leave with her boyfriend after the game.

Once inside the confines of her home, Magdalene promptly lies on the floor. “Holy shit,” she sighs, “I did it. I fucking did it.”

“You did!” Bette says as she lies down beside her best friend. “I’m so fucking proud of you, and Tyson is too. Even if he won’t tackle you in public to prove it.”

The comment garners a laugh from Magdalene, which alerts Caligula to the presence of others in the apartment. He pads over the rug currently being occupied by two adults, and snuggles into the small space between them. Bette and Magdalene continue to lay there, petting the cat and looking back fondly on all the times Magdalene called her friend in tears because she didn’t think she could push herself any farther. Bette was always there to pick up the slack, editing whatever section Magdalene was working on or to bring over a hot meal. Her support earned her the top spot in the acknowledgements section of the thesis.

Ball Arena is already crawling with people when Magdalene pulls into the small lot for player’s and their families. Normally she parks with the general public, but Bette insists they watch this game from the better halves box, and these spaces are closer to that entrance.

“Stop dragging your feet,” the blonde chastises as Magdalene takes her time cutting the engine. “I want to get a glass of rosé before they sell out.”

Sighing, Magdalene follows her orders. “Don’t you have a special bar in the box?” she asks while locking the car.

“Yeah, but the other girls are absolute fiends. They’ll drink it all before we get there with no remorse.”

The girls climb the stairs to the better halves box, Bette chatting excitedly about the game, but Magdalene stops just before the entrance. She’s met most of the others on multiple occasions and has nothing to worry about, but she can’t help but feel anxious. Her life is so different than everyone else’s in the space, and it feels like cheating when she’s there because she isn’t romantically involved with anyone on the roster. Bette likes to joke that she’s her better half, but Magdalene knows it’s said just to calm her nerves.

“It’ll be fine,” Bette whispers while squeezing her hand, “And if you get too uncomfortable we can find some seats in the nosebleeds.”

Once inside Magdalene’s nerves dissipate. Most of the other wives and girlfriends pay her no mind, but the ones that are especially close to Bette congratulate her on passing her defence. It warms her heart a little, and the small group Magdalene finds herself in settles down to watch the game unfold.

It’s a fairly intense one between Colorado’s division rival St. Louis. Both teams are fighting for first place in the conference, and a win for the Avalanche would put them three points ahead of the Blues instead of one. Players from both sides are amped up, and more than once a scrum at the net has turned into a dog-pile. Colorado is outplaying the other team, but have still managed to find themselves a goal short heading into the final period. At the buzzer Tyson takes the face-off and is immediately shoved by a member of the opposite team. He goes down hard, and Bette squeezes Magdalene’s hand so tightly she fears it will lose blood flow. Silence falls over the arena as Tyson doesn’t immediately get up. The inside of lip finds its way between her teeth and Magdalene bites down hard, worried about her friend. She’s so focussed on Tyson that she doesn’t notice a fight breaking out.

“Holy shit, Gravy is going to town!”

The remark is made by someone Magdalene recognizes as Gabe Landeskog’s wife, and it makes her peel her eyes off of Bette’s worried features and scan the ice for some action. Sure enough, a very tall man is laying right hooks to someone who looks significantly smaller than him on the Avalanche blue line. The referees let the fight continue until Tyson drags himself off the ice and onto the bench before separating the men and throwing them in the penalty box. Magdalene can tell words are still being exchanged from both sides of the glass, but she’s more focussed on the fact Tyson doesn’t make his way to the dressing room – a good sign that allows Bette to drop her hand and let out a shaky breath.

Nothing of great importance happens until MacKinnon ties the game with seven minutes left. It happens while the Avalanche are short handed, and the goal seems to light a fire beneath the team. Magdalene may not know much about hockey, but she’s smart enough to notice the insane amount of energy all the players suddenly have. Time ticks by slowly and before she realizes it, the final face-off is taking place. Luckily it’s in the St. Louis zone and won by Colorado. The puck is tipped back to the same player who got in the fight for Tyson, Gravy, and he one times it right into the back of the net. The buzzer goes off not a second later, and the entire team piles on top of the player who just won them the game.

Bette and Magdalene join in the shrieks of the other partners, jumping from their seats in excitement. Eventually they make their way down to the hallway outside the locker room and lean against the brick while they wait for Tyson.

“You don’t have to stay,” Bette insists, “I can wait by myself.”

Magdalene shakes her head. “No way. I want to make sure he’s okay too. What good is a friend with a black eye?”

The other girl laughs at her friend’s stubbornness but doesn’t shoo her away. Once Magdalene has made a decision it’s hard to get her to sway from it, and Bette knows better than to push. Besides, who is she to deny her friend a bit more social interaction? Magdalene has spent the past six years practically holed up in the library and deserves to stand in a crowded hallway.

The friends chat idly while they wait, with Magdalene sharing some of the most ridiculous questions she got asked in her defence interview that morning. She’s mid story when Tyson exits the dressing flanked by a man dressed sharply in all black.

“Hey guys,” Tyson greets, dipping his head to place a kiss to Bette’s cheek before doing an elaborately goofy handshake with Magdalene.

“Good game baby,” Bette compliments sweetly. She then turns her attention to the boy standing awkwardly on the fringes. “You too Graves.”

He smiles shyly, muttering out a small thanks. It’s then he seems to notice the final member of the group, and offers his hand in greeting. “Hi, I’m Ryan.”

“Nice to meet you. I’m Magdalene.”

She puts two and two together on the walk to her car. The Ryan Magdalene just met is the same who will take her spot on the trip, fought someone in Tyson’s defence, and scored the game winning goal. Though they’ve only said a few words, she likes him. He seems genuine, and those people are the rarest to find.

☼☼☼☼

Magdalene is walking across a graduation stage for the final time in two days. However, she can’t find anyone to take the third ticket. The University of Denver has a stupid rule where all graduates must have three guests attend the ceremony. Bette and Tyson are obviously occupying two of Magdalene’s seats, but she’s having trouble filling the third.

“I can ask Tys if one of the guys is free,” Bette shrugs. The two girls are sitting in the window of Barn Owl drinking iced lattes and discussing what Magdalene should wear to the ceremony.

“It’s okay,” Magdalene says, “I don’t want to bother anyone. Maybe I’ll just ask June.”

Her friend’s eye roll so far back into her head Magdalene isn’t sure they won’t stay there. “You can’t ask your boss to watch you graduate Mags! Besides, Gravy owes Tyson a favour and was already looking for something to do. I’m sure he won’t mind wasting a few hours as long as he gets drinks out of it.”

There isn’t a better option, so even though she barely knows the guy, Magdalene agrees. “Make sure he gets this?" she sighs, handing her friend an envelope with a single ticket in it. "I have to go. Caligula should be done at the vet soon.”

“Say hello to little boots for me,” Bette giggles as she waves goodbye.

Hours later, tucked into her couch with a glass of wine in one hand and Caligula playing with the fingers on the other, Magdalene realizes she invited a complete stranger to her graduation and how that could be a terrible idea. Sure, Ryan sounds like a great guy from the way Bette and Tyson talk about him, but he’s only ever spoken three words to her. Since that game she’s gone out with the team a few times, but the man with the piercing stare is yet to make an appearance. Magdalene considers that perhaps he’s more like her than his profession gives him credit for, and she feels a twinge of guilt about being worried he’d cause a scene at the ceremony.

There isn’t any more time for her to fret over the third and final guest on the list. At the last minute Bette decides there’s nothing in Magdalene’s closet that’s suitable for her to wear, so a trip to a local second-hand store ensues. While it’s nice that her friend has taken their carbon footprints into consideration, Magdalene wishes it didn’t have to happen an hour and a half before the ceremony is supposed to start.

“We have to be there in twenty minutes Bette,” she frets, tapping her foot nervously against the tile flooring.

If they can’t find whatever it is Bette’s looking for, Magdalene will have to walk across the stage in denim cutoffs and a faded t-shirt with Neil Young’s face on it, which is something she’s hoping to avoid at all costs.

“Have no fear, Mags,” she says with a knowing glint in her eye, “For I have found it.” Bette holds up a hanger that is holding a beautiful long sleeve dress adorned with a whimsical floral print.

Magdalene can’t help the gasp that escapes from her. “It’s beautiful,” she breathes, “But let’s hope it fits.”

The dress does in fact fit, and the workers are kind enough to let her wear it out of the store. Bette drives at a speed that might not be the safest to travel at in downtown Denver, but she gets to the school with minutes to spare. She shoos her friends out of the car so she can go pick up Tyson and Ryan, and Magdalene checks in with little hassle. The pool of graduates is fairly small, so she chats with a few classmates while they wait for the call to put their gowns on. Time passes quicker than expected, and soon Magdalene is being directed to her seat. She zones out while the dean gives a congratulatory speech and they go through the first few names. At one point she looks backwards into the crowd to find Bette, Tyson, and Ryan all giving her a thumbs up. The nerves she didn’t even know she had settle.

A faculty member signals for Magdalene’s row to stand up, and she smoothes her dress before dutifully following the person in front of her. Giddiness bubbles in her stomach at the thought of being done school forever. A hand from the stage crew give a cue, and Magdalene appears on the stage as her accomplishment is broadcast through the microphone.

“Magdalene Stevenson is being awarded a Masters in Information Science in Archival Studies and Records Management.” It feels so good to finally be finished that she lets a tear slip as she shakes the hand of the staff member handing her the package with her diploma in it.

The rest of the ceremony passes in a blur, and before Magdalene knows it her friends are approaching to congratulate her. Bette and Tyson wrap her in a tight hug, murmuring praise in her ears. Ryan stands awkwardly to the side before Bette drags him into the celebration. The four of them stand in the courtyard where the ceremony was for much longer than needed. Bette is crying enough to refill Sloan Lake if there is ever a drought and is yet to let go of Magdalene’s figure.

It’s only when the event staff ask them to leave so they can tear down the stage does Magdalene turn to leave campus for the last time as a student. She’ll be back in a few weeks as an employee, but deep down she knows this is the last time she’ll ever feel such a deep connection to the place.

“Victory is mine, victory is mine! Great day in the morning people, victory is mine!” Magdalene yells, quoting Josh Lyman as she skips down the path towards Bette’s car.

Both Bette and Tyson are confused at the sudden outburst, not knowing what she’s talking about, but Ryan responds without missing a beat. “Should I bring you all the muffins and bagels in the land?” His response doesn’t clear anything up, but it elicits a giant smile from Magdalene, who laughs and nods in confirmation.

Sitting in the back of Bette’s Audi, on the way to a graduation party she’s supposed to know nothing about, Magdalene decides that she wants to get to know Ryan Graves better. From what she’s garnered from Bette and Tyson he’s a class act, standing up for friends and giving good advice. He likes The West Wing and showed up to a stranger’s graduation, so how bad can he be?

☼☼☼☼

additional notes: see what magdalene's graduation dress looks like here // the quote from the west wing is from 1.02 if you were curious!

☼☼☼☼

taglist: @scrunchmakar @marcoscandellas @toplinetommy (add yourself to the taglist!)

[christinesficrecs]

I needed a distraction from yet another hateful week so here we are!! With this Beach AU reclist that is obviously no longer that! 🤦🏻‍♀️  

Also, there are some 4th of July fics here if you’re feeling picnics and bbqs. And summer camp fics here if that’s more your thing. 

A (Sort of) Fairytale by briecheesie, daunt | 25.8K | Mature

The summer after senior year starts normally enough, with the gang spending their final months before college together at the Martin family's lake house. Then Jackson stumbles onto the burial ground of a witch's ex-husband, Stiles is magically turned into a fox, and things somehow manage to get worse from there. The gratuitous Princess Bride references are only of moderate help.

Kissing the Shoreline by theroguesgambit | 12K

Stiles doesn’t want just any summer fling. He wants Derek. And Lydia is determined to help Stiles get him.

The Newlywed Game by Captain_Loki | 19.5K | Mature

Stiles is (still) single when the pack's getaway to the Caribbean comes by (oh misplaced optimism); lucky for him Derek is committed to being uncommitted and even after all these years is still powerless against Stiles' unique forms of persuasion.

Cue a romantic getaway for two: sun, sand, and sarcasm abound...and the two roped into competing in the Resort's version of the Newlywed game. Only it's completely obvious it's going to end in disaster. Probably homicide.

Most probably homicide.

Plot twist: It doesn't.

Livin' La Vida Loca by jadore_hale, stomachaches | 16.3K

The one where Stiles answers a newspaper ad to be the Hale family's new pool boy and has a hell of a summer.

Wild and Reckless Breeze by GotTheSilver | 15.7K | Mature 

In which Stiles is killing time working at a bookshop, Derek buys a lot of Chuck Palahniuk and they start hanging out, much to the confusion of Scott and the Sheriff.

hey asshole by everchanginginks | 15.6K | Mature

The Hales moved in next door more than a year ago and while Cora and Stiles became fast friends, Stiles has yet to meet his best friend's big brother, Derek, who’s been attending college in New York. When Derek comes home for the summer he makes less than a stellar impression. And vice versa.

To Navigate Your Seas by alisvolatpropiis | 26K | Explicit

Derek is a beach bum/surfer; Stiles is his new neighbor. Feels ensue.

The Lawn Ranger by Snowjob | 47.8K | Mature 

In which Derek is an adolescent werewolf with a penchant for chocolate bunnies, and instead of the dream summer of lazing around the house playing video games and nibbling on his hoarded supply of easter candy his mother makes him get a job.

In which Stiles is a showoff jock with a broken arm and an embarrassing crush who can no longer push the lawn mower around the yard.

Bed Sharing For Dummies by werewolvesandarrows (nerdy_farm_girl) | 7.5K | Explicit

Scott and Kira decide they should all go on vacation. Stiles has to share a bed with Derek. He's handling it like a mature adult.

Beach Trip AU  |  Steady Like The Tide  |  tumblr ficlets

We'll Still Have The Summer by allyasavedtheday | 32.3K

He’s too busy waxing poetic in his own head about the surly – dreamy – dude holding the sign for the hotel to notice Scott already making his way over. He pauses halfway when he realises Stiles isn’t following him, turning around and eyeing Stiles curiously, “Dude, come on, the guy’s waiting.”

Stiles snaps himself into action and pushes his cart carrying his suitcases over to where Scott’s introducing himself to Stiles’ future husband.

“-And this is Stiles,” Scott is saying just as Stiles arrives next to him.

“I’m Derek,” the guy replies gruffly, folding the sign up and tucking it under his arm. “I’ll be taking you back to the hotel.”

Cutback by WonderWolf | 19.3K

Scott and Stiles are pro surfers in need of a place to stay for their upcoming competition. Out of all the things Derek expected this summer, being asked to house his brother and ex-boyfriend for one week wasn’t on the list.

i have always been the storm by stilinskisparkles | 25.2K | Explicit

"You’re all headed out to Oklahoma in a week.”

Derek snaps his head up, stares at him in horror, “No, boss.”

“Yes,” Finstock insists in a steely voice. “The NSSL have been on at us for a year about some decent exposure, and I think you’re just the team to do it.”

“I haven’t done weather since college,” Derek protests.

Boyd snorts again, presumably because he’s thinking back to the time when Derek and the weather last collided and he…. well, did the guy into the weather for a brief, wonderful, terribly foolish time. But, Boyd needs to shut up before Derek punches him on the nose.

We’ve Got Chemistry by dr_girlfriend | 17.8K 

So…” The man was at the door to a shed now. “The previous owners left everything, so I think there should be everything you need. But let me know if you need me to pick up anything, or if you prefer, you can buy it and I’ll reimburse you…”

“Everything I need?” Stiles repeated. He had obviously missed something.

“You know.” The man smiled again, a little more cautiously. He was looking at Stiles as if he were a bit mentally-challenged. “To clean the pool.”

“To clean the pool,” Stiles repeated. He looked around. Then he looked down at himself, taking in his stained shirt, cargo shorts, and raggedy Converse.

“Oh!” he said. “Because I’m the pool guy.” And that’s not what he meant to say at all. He meant to say, “You think I’m the pool guy.”

Go For The Gold (And A Few Other Things) by SpiritsFlame | 14.7K | Mature

Stiles came to the Olympics with one goal- get a gold medal. By Opening Ceremonies, he has two goals. Win a gold medal, and sleep with Derek Hale. Unfortunately for him, those two goals are equally difficult.

Show Me How We Can Escape by secondstar | 9.8K | Explicit

Stiles needed a vacation. He deserved it, after working nonstop. Australia felt like a world away from the limelight; just what he needed. He didn't expect to meet Derek, though.

I Ran (So Far) by thepsychicclam | 33.7K | Explicit

In which Stiles' summer starts off so badly he starts running, gets pelted by paint balls, and decides he is, in fact, going crazy if he willingly wants to hang out with Derek Hale.

We’ll put on a show (Scotty has to know) by dearericbittle (dutchmoxie) | 7.7K

Stiles is a stubborn asshole, determined to have fun in Europe even though Scott stays behind in Belgium because of a girl. So asking a stranger to make out with him for the ‘Gram? Totally the best decision he’s ever made, and not just because that’ll totally show Jackson (and Scott!). Shame he won’t see the guy again, though.

Mermaider by nothing_left_sacred | 15.5K | Mature

“So what you’re saying is; you’re a mermaid princess.” Erica concluded.

“Yes, clearly. That is what I am saying. Thank you for putting it so concisely.” Stiles sassed, frowning at her. He wasn’t fucking Ariel; this was so far from being a Disney movie it wasn't even funny.

Or the one where a perfectly normal Beach Vacation escalates way too quickly, because this is Stiles' life.

Slow Burn by Boy_On_Strings | 69.7K | Explicit

Derek takes the pack on a vacation to a beach. Derek and Stiles are forced to share a room after Allison and Scott claim one room and Lydia claims another for her and Jackson. This leads the two towards bonding and more.

Burn It Out by Omni | 6.3K

Everything that he was got burned out of him, turned to ash and shadow just like everyone he loved. He was hollowed out and empty, and it hurt like claws across exposed nerves.

Then, it was done.

Move A Mountain by ZainClaw | 69K | Explicit

Stiles goes camping with his friends in New Mexico after graduation where they befriend a biker gang led by Derek: a guy whom Stiles can’t decide if he will be either relieved or devastated to never see again once their week is up.

Past The Breakers by thepsychicclam | 40.7K | Explicit

Stiles and Scott get summer jobs at the exclusive Seawolf Beach Resort, and the last thing Stiles expects is to start taking surf lessons from the hot lifeguard.

[some-dr-writings]

Kokichi, Rantaro, and Shuichi x SHSL Military General Reader

Kokichi Oma:

·       The Super High School Level Military General, that title sounded to be a mere invitation for a challenge to Kokichi. The moment he heard of you, your reputation of being so cold and distant, more stoic and silent than even stone, he knew you were his next target. He was determined to get you to crack that façade somehow!

·       There was just one problem.

·       No matter what he pulled you always either didn’t react, or effortlessly avoided it. You had to have some weakness. He just needed to snuff it out! And so that was how Kokichi began to follow you. The moment you exited class he’d be there to greet you at the door with some prank, after which he’d momentarily complain about how you were emotionless in a joking tone before hugging your arm talking nonstop about anything and everything that slipped through his mind. Not once did you ever utter a word or make a sound during these encounters.

·       One day after class you sat in the library, studying for an upcoming test. “Ugh, Y/N, this is soooo boring. We don’t even need to study at this school, just improve our talents. What are you dooooing?” You simply jotted down some notes before flipping to the next page in the textbook. Groaning he took out a drawing pad and crayons and started scribbling on it. Loudly humming he worked away, even when in the corner of his eye he saw how you had closed your text book, daintily placing the book onto your lap, your hands properly held atop one another on the cover of the book. “… Give Tojo Kirumi a task in the gym.” “Ah HAH! You do speak!” You stared at him, standing on the table, pointing, his finger touching the tip of your nose. “… Tomorrow is Tuesday. Normally she’d be doing laundry by eight, but yesterday Yasuhiro Taeke, more commonly known as Ludenberg Celestia, will be hosting a card gaming tournament at the behest of the principle since a well renowned group of talent agents will be coming here. Tojo Kirumi will be asked to assist with setting up the hall. In order to get as many of your targets as possible give her a request immediately before nine. That will lead both Yasuhiro Taeke and the talent agents to the sight of your prank and keep Tojo Kirumi from intervening and cleaning up the aftermath too soon after your prank is ignited.” So, a peak into the mind of the SHSL Military General.

·       Since that day you would occasionally speak to Kokichi, it was always abrupt and short, but it was always to assist in his scheming and nothing else.

·       Eventually Kokichi got bored following you, saying it wasn’t fair that you two only ever did what you wanted so he’d begin to drag you around. You never resisted, not even once. Kokichi didn’t think much of this, just that you likely went along since it was the better option than fighting against it.

·       Then he realized that was not the case.

·       You and he were meandering around the school festival, Kokichi making fun of the sad horror house effects much to Korekiyo’s chagrin. It was then one of the students from your class told you things had gone array at your booth, and they needed your help. They were about to take your hand and lead you there when you jerked your hand away, a harsh snap sound cracking the air. You look down at them with a cold steelie gaze and in an intimidating, confident voice you said “No.” Then you began to walk away at a brisk pack. “Come now, I know you can keep up.” And that same tone immediately got your classmate to walk in time with you, in your exact stride too. Not long later you returned to the haunted house where Kokichi still was. “Y/A What was that all about? Wait! Hey, hey! That’s your weakness, isn’t it! Tell me, tell me. It’s your weakness! Come on! Just admit it!” You didn’t do a thing for a moment before taking his hand. “Letting one of my soldiers lead the way would be a sign of weakness. The same however can not be stated about the closest thing I have to a friendship with another.” “… Aw~ You think of me as a friend? That’s so sweet!” … closest thing you had to friendship… What exactly was your life like before entering Hope’s Peak, he wondered. He had some guesses… Likely awfully lonely. But that’s exactly why he’s here. Kokichi is a clown, and he was determined still to get a reaction out of you.

·       It was strange. For the longest time he thought your stoicism was a façade, but truthfully that was just how you were. It just made the moments when he did get a reaction all the more special and mesmerizing. He wanted to be there to see each and every one of your little reactions. “Hey, Y/N!” He let go of your hand, spinning around and stopping before you. “Want to go out with me?”

·       You blushed.

·       Your eyes slightly widened, your posture laxed and your hands held the hem of your shirt. “I… l-like a date?” “Nishishi.” Your blush swiftly spread to the tips of your ears as Kokichi took your hands into his own. “Heh, who knew. Honesty is your weakness.” Suddenly he started skipping away, still holding one of your hands. “For a liar like me, this might be difficult but, if being honest with my feelings plucks at your heart strings, I guess I have no choice.” Seemingly out of nowhere Kokichi had a megaphone in hand and held it up to himself before taking a deep breath. “HEY WORLD! I’M IN LOVE WITH Y/N!” “Ah, O-Oma! I- uh Yes? I’d like to go out, b-but…” You covered your face with both of your hands, too embarrassed and loving how Kokichi smiled, continuing to announce his love for you to the world.

·       Equal opposites yet exactly the same you and Kokichi seemed to be a reflection of one another. You almost unemotive and Kokichi very emotive. Both of you were fantastic leaders always trying to manipulate the world as to protect your own even if it meant manipulating them too. As the Ultimate Supreme Leader and Ultimate Military General, nothing could stand in your way. You could own the whole world if you wished. Luckily for the world, all you wanted was for all you cared about to be safe and happy. Safe under both of your watchful eyes and happy at the silly shenanigans you’d plan out for your own but mostly other’s amusement. After all the fighting you had been through it was therapeutic to use your skills outside of fighting and perhaps… that was Kokichi’s goal the whole time. Maybe, for as smart and clever as you were, you were outmatched by the emotionally intelligent Kokichi. Whatever his true intentions he had for approaching you that even he possibly didn’t know, you were still together and something you were forced to accept as a Military general is that sometimes it matters not how you reach a goal, just the end result and though that thought often weighed heavily upon you, maybe just this once, a single clown had helped you lift up and carry that burden, even changing it to something lighter. Something with no blood, just tomfoolery. And… after all you had been though, it was like a dream to have it be this way.

   Rantaro Amami:

·       The pair of you had met only once before joining Hope’s Peak. Rantaro had stumbled upon a training camp you were temporarily heading. Impressed he was even able to make it there since it was near impossible to get through those snowy ranges without a helicopter or some way to just skip over manually trekking through the dangerous terrain, you allowed him to rest for the night after thoroughly checking he didn’t have anything dangerous or was a spy that is. Promptly the moment the sun rose you kicked him out, but he was still appreciative you let him stay at all. So when he saw you at the entrance ceremony he took the opportunity to thank you since you never gave him the chance to back then.

·       Since that day whenever Rantaro was at school and not traveling he’d make sure to spend time with you. You never spoke much mostly keeping to yourself or intervening into our class’ affairs should a leader be helpful, even so Rantaro would still chat with you. That was actually something he quite liked about you. The few times you did speak, there was always purpose and power behind it. No matter what was happening, even if you quietly muttered a single short word, you’d instantly garner the attention of all those around you and even if they were preoccupied with something else, you did not need to repeat your words, for they already knew what they were.

·       Others always though the two of you to be a strange pair. You were strict and up tight while Rantaro was more relaxed and laid back. Seemingly opposites, yet you did have a common thread. Nurturing. Rantaro, often his big brother instincts would kick in and he’d comfort and help just about anyone, even if he wasn’t all to great at the task at hand. You on the other hand always push those around you to their limit, motivating them to work as hard as they could independently while still being good team players. Rantaro more so focused on being the emotional side or being the rock others could lean on while you were their leader, assisting them in finding the best plan of attack that was most efficient but least costly on materials whether it be monetary or their health, you took all that into consideration as costs. A mentally damaged soldier can’t properly fight with their everything after all.

·       Sometimes when Rantaro was planning his next trip away from school you’d join him. “If you cut through the mountains, you’d have a direct path to the town.” “Well… Yeah, but I don’t know. There’s supposed to be wolves there.” “You said the town you’re coming from is known for fishing.” “Yeah.” “Surely one of them would have a boat or shipping route you can hitch a ride on. There’s a large river that cuts through the mountains, unless there’s white rapids I’m sure someone uses it for transport. If not, with your persuasion skills I’m sure you can convince someone to do so.” “Persuasion skills? I don’t know about that, but thanks.” You looked to him with that icy glare, one that would make most anyone flinch, but not Rantaro. His regular demeanor was just so calm and relaxed he was one of the few people who was unaffected by it. “Never doubt yourself. Hesitating for a moment will get you killed.” Rantaro simply smiled with his eyes closed, patting you on the head. “Okay, I won’t. Thank you.” “ah!... don’t, don’t patronize me. We’re friends, don’t treat me of a lower station, we’re equals.” “Huh?” He looked to you in confusion. There was still power in your voice, but did it waver? Your cheeks and tips of your ears were dusted with a bright pink. He retracted his hand. “Sorry, I wasn’t doing that. I forgot you don’t like touch. It’s a habit I guess.” “… Please refrain from doing so in the future. It’s common practice to treat a child in such a way. Not to say children are lower than us, but most often with head pats and that sickeningly sweet tone you took is used for looking down on those younger, those one sees as beneath them… Children are not given enough respect.” “Oh? I don’t look down on my little sisters.” The blush on you face kept darkening as you made unwavering eye contact with Rantaro trying to not show just how flustered you were becoming. “Well, I, I mean… Often people only treat others they see as lower like that, and, I…” You then abruptly stood up. “I need a moment to collect my thoughts.” You then ran off wondering what the hell you were even doing. Meanwhile Rantaro simply smiled watching you as you left. “Cute.”

·       As Rantaro thought about it, he did appreciate what you were trying to say. He knew how highly you treated respect, and you give that to children as well… Perhaps you’d be a good person to be around his sisters.

·       For all of Rantaro’s life he had always gone with the flow, so it was not surprising that the same happened when getting together with you. Neither of you ever confessed, you just knew you were together and that was that.

·       On occasion you’d go with Rantaro on his trips. Though he never had much luck before, Rantaro felt that with you by his side, perhaps he could find his sisters again. With a person as strong and smart and dedicated as you, he was sure you’d come up with some ingenious plan to find them all. If anyone could do it, it would be you. These trips, when these thoughts appeared, it reminded him of all the reasons why he fell for you, how kind and caring you were under that cold exterior. You just always wanted the best for others so should you be separated, you didn’t have to worry about them, because you knew you trained them well to be independent and a team player when needed. You were the best partner he never could have even dreamed of and with you by his side, he felt that just maybe anything was possible.

   Shuichi Saihara:

·       Shuichi was introduced to you through Kaito. Kaito acted like you and he were the best of friends, but you seemed to be so distant. “Kaito… Are you sure you’re friends?” “Huh? What do you mean, Shuichi? Of course we’re friend’s, just look at how happy they are to be here with me!” You did not even take a glance at him as he draped his arm across your shoulders, pulling you closer, he so brightly smiling. “They’re like Akamatsu and me, a great leader! I actually brought them here to see if they’d take you on as a sidekick as well!” “Soldier.” Shuichi’s breath got caught in his throat hearing that quiet, yet powerful voice. “Yeah, soldier, sidekick, they’re the same for you.”

·       Not long after you ended up joining he, Maki and Kaito for their training in the evenings. As the SHSL Military general, he thought it was going to be hell, but… it was not? You gave Maki, Kaito and Shuichi different amounts of push-ups or whatever exercise they had decided to do. Every one of you were pushed to your limit. You’d correct them on their form, but more so, you’d encourage them, saying you knew they could do better and asking that they not disappoint you, which was surprisingly motivating. Though he hadn’t known you for long, he didn’t want to let you down, something about you made him want to do better. Perhaps it was that commanding tone that made him feel he had too or how you were working out with all of them, not taking a break or slowing your impossibly fast pace till everyone was done. Whatever it was, some part of Shuichi wanted to make you proud of him as odd as that may sound.

·       You also ended up following Shuichi around. Nothing stalker like. You’d just sit by one another in the library or at lunch. Being more introverted, Shuichi actually rather liked this. Neither of you had to speak much but your friendship still blossomed.

·       One day you spoke up. “Shuichi, are you free after school?” “Yeah, I am.” “I’ll meet you at your classroom then.” And you just left. Indeed, when Shuichi left his classroom you were there waiting for him by the door. Locking eyes for a brief moment you began to walk away, and he followed. You lead him out of the school, down streets and alleyways till you arrived at a small building.

·       Once inside you were immediately greeted happily by men and women. “Hey, General, who’s this kid. A new friend of yours?” “Yes. A childhood friend of mine introduced us and I was asked to take him under my wing. I believe this place may be useful to him. I’ll be heading to my therapy session now.” With that said you walked up the stairs and left Shuichi behind. “Uh, therapy? What is this place?” It looked to be a large cozy house. There were not too many people about ten or so but most were of different ethnicities or were injured in some way. One of the people sitting at a table eating baked treats approached Shuichi. “A drop-in center. A place for us retired soldiers to gather and… just talk with others with similar experiences. You don’t seem like the Ultimate fighter or anything so a civilian like you must have been through something rough. Come, let’s share some snacks till the General gets back.”

·       And there Shuichi was told many a story of the battlefield, stories of you, how you always tried to take as little life while still being realistic. How you’d push everyone to the breaking point but also be tender. War is not kind but that didn’t mean you couldn’t be. “So… what about you?” “Eh- Me?” “Yes, Shuichi. You feel up to sharing your experiences?” “I… I can’t. My problems must sound so trivial compared to what you’ve been through.” “Enough! You never fought in a war but that doesn’t make your pain any less real.” “Exactly. This is a safe space to share any troubles, but if you don’t want too you don’t have to. I know it sure took me a while before I shared any of my stories.” “Well…” And Shuichi told them. About how he got his title, about the look the killer gave him, the guilt he carried on his shoulders, the fear of finding the truth only to cause more pain. And… everyone was so supportive. Some even saying that in some ways they weren’t sure they could deal with what Shuichi had gone through and fighting seemed easier to them. It seemed so surreal to Shuichi. So surreal in fact he didn’t notice you came back down those steps, briefly smiling before sitting in a corner to do your homework.

·       It was around dinner time that Shuichi had noticed you and realized how late it had gotten. You both quickly left, not wanting to miss out on Teruteru’s delicious cooking. About a block away from the building, you spoke up. “I go there just about everyday after school. Even if I don’t go, you’re welcome. A drop-in center is for everyone, not just soldiers of war.” Shuichi knew what you were getting at and accepted your offer. It was nice and quiet there. There were different regulars for each day, so conversation never got stale and… it was just so pleasant.

·       Eventually after you and Shuichi started going out you were occasionally teased at the Drop-in center, but it was always lighthearted. Some even shared stories of their spouses or past romances.

·       With Shuichi’s life seemingly being a rollercoaster, always so fast, loud and busy, he loved being with you. You were able to help him clear his mind. You were one of the few truly stable things in his life. No matter what happened he could always seek your guidance and you’d help to an extent but make sure Shuichi did most of the leg work. And you… truthfully you could say the exact same about Shuichi. He still needed to gain confidence, and independence, but you knew that you could rely on him. Should all the spilled blood seem overbearing, Shuichi would help you out of that dark place. You relied on him just as much as he relied on you. You were truly equal partners and neither of you could want for more from a partner.

[cutiepisenpai]

Part 3 of 3   Part 1   Part 2

Kenma X F!Reader 

Warnings: Fluff, Implied Sex

A year after you got married a lot had changed, you showed up more in his streams sometimes gaming alongside him. You also launched a joint channel for lifestyle types vlogs that wouldn’t affect your other content. You had woken up alone which was strange, what was even stranger was that it was late in the evening and you don’t remember falling asleep. Grabbing a throw blanket and pulling it over your shoulders you go looking for Kenma. You find him in the middle of a stream but you don’t worry about interrupting anymore. You simply walk in and climb into his lap while he continues playing.

“What’s up kitten?” He asks and you don’t answer verbally just nuzzling your face into his neck. He turns giving you a kiss on the forehead before his attention is back on the game. Eventually you fall back asleep in his lap to the sound of his mouse and keyboard clicking. The next morning you wake up back in the bed  with Kenma by your side. You figure he brought you in when the stream ended last night. You don’t have the energy to get up but you spent the entire day yesterday in bed. You get lost in thought debating on getting out of the bed for so long that Kenma wakes up seeing you laying there lost in thought. 

“What are you doing?” He asks. 

“Hmm, sorry lost in thought?’

“Are you okay? You’ve been sleeping a lot lately.” 

“I’m fine really.” 

He doesn’t say anything else but you know he isn’t convinced. 

“Do you want breakfast?” He asks, you know that he notices the smallest things.

“I haven’t had much of an appetite.”

“You should still try to eat something.”

“Pie.”

“We can’t have pie for breakfast.” he says.

“Why not?”

“Because for years you said I can’t have pie for breakfast.”

“If I say I changed my mind can we get pie for breakfast.”

And that is how you end up heading to the nearest grocery store and coming back home with apple pie. You preheat the oven and stick the pie in waiting. You sit on the counter top with Kenma standing between your legs playing a game on his phone. You lean over hooking your chin over his shoulder watching him play. You let out a loud yawn. 

“Still tired?” Kenma asks.

“Kind of, I don’t know really. I’m not tired but I just want to sleep.”

“Have you been sleeping?” He asks closing out his game and opening his internet browser. 

“No, what are you doing?”

“Looking up your symptoms.” 

“So the internet can say I’m dying. No thanks. I’m fine it’s probably just because I finished the project I had been working on.”

“If you say so.”

The pie comes out and cools, you spend the afternoon laying back on Kenma he doesn’t mind it he actually enjoys it but it doesn’t ease his concern. 

“I have to go start my stream kitten.” He says while tapping your hip signaling for you to get up. 

“Okay I guess I will leave you my lovely cuddly buddy. I need to shower anyway.”

“Are you going to come watch the stream after?”

“Yes.”

When you get to the shower you realize you are out of body wash but you have an extra in the cabinet. You open the cabinet looking around for the bottle when the brand new unopened box of tampons catches your eye. You start doing mental math and something isn’t adding up. You go grab your phone opening your period tracking app. The app shows that you are thirty five days late, you sit down staring at the dates and it was of course right. You panic not quite sure what to do, having a baby wasn’t something you had planned for yet. You had talked about it but had decided to wait for now. You change quickly, peaking your head in and getting Kenma’s attention. 

“Hey I need to run to the store, I’ll be right back.”

Kenma immediately senses your unease and is up out of his chair coming towards you leaving his stream unattended. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s nothing really, Kenma your stream.” He doesn’t even turn to check on his game his focus on you. 

“Why are you rushing off to the store all of a sudden?”

“It might be nothing but I just need to check. But I’m fine really so just go back to the stream okay.”

“I’m going with you.” He says walking over and abruptly ending his stream with no goodbye or explanation. 

“Kenma.”

“It’ll be fine, I'll explain it to them later.” He says putting on his shoes. 

“Now why are we going to the store?” 

“I might be pregnant.” You say in a low voice. Those simple words stop Kenma in the middle of putting on his shoe, turning to look at you as you put on your shoes.

“Really?” He asks, he doesn’t sound upset, just surprised and you just nod your head. 

The trip to the store and back is quiet, not the normal comforting quiet. This quiet was unbearable and suffocating. 

“This is awkward.” You say looking at Kenma standing in the doorway. 

“What is?”

“I can’t pee with you watching.” 

“I can turn around but I’m not leaving.” He is so adamant that it actually makes you laugh and you are able to pee. It is a long five minutes waiting for the results. You sit on the bed with Kenma, he has you wrapped closely in his arms, “Are you worried?” He asks.

“Are you?”

“No.”

“Really?”

“You seem surprised. It is the obvious next step.” 

“Well I know that. We’ve talked about kids but only hypothetically. It is not like we planned this.”

He takes your hand in his bringing it up to his lips and kissing the back of your head. “Plan or no plan, we’ll be fine.”

You hear the timer go off and Kenma goes to check it. “What does it say?” You ask.

“We are going to need to come up with a plan?” He says turning it to show you the positive sign. 

Who knew a small positive sign could change so much. Everything and nothing changed, Kenma had taken to watching you like a hawk. He took time away from gaming outside of his streams even though you told him it was unnecessary. Your friends were all expectedly excited claiming they were going to be the best uncles. You had yet to address it with your fan bases not sure if you want them to have that much information just yet. Your followers did notice that Kenma had shown up more in your recent videos. The first time you get morning sickness Kenma sits on the floor in the bathroom with you rubbing circles across your back. He eventually learns to bring you ginger ale and saltines. He likes to keep close to him whether it is sitting in his lap while he streams or just on the couch in the room with him. His viewers notice the change, how much more often you show up in his videos even if it is just in the background. You eventually make an announcement when you inform your followers that you would not be attending any conventions or expos in the upcoming year. Kenma attends all of your doctors appointments with you listening intensely to everything the doctor is saying. The weeks pass and start to show he can’t keep his hands off of you in every sense of the word. You would between his legs and play video games laying your head back on his chest. You wouldn’t call him much of a cuddler beforehand, he didn’t mind cuddling but he rarely initiated it. And now he was close to you every chance he would get.

 “I love you I really do but let go.” You say to Kenma as you try to climb out of the bed. “

“Just stay in the bed.”

“I have editing to do.”

“You don’t have to edit. You work too much.”

“Oh really and my videos will somehow edit themselves.”

“Hire an editor.”

You scrunch your nose at the thought, “No, I want them done a specific way, my way. And you have a meeting to get to.”

“Don’t wanna.”

“Well you have a business you are in charge of so tough noogies.”

With each passing month you and Kenma adjust to the ever coming changes. Soon enough your due date comes but the baby does not. You have grown impatient, sore and tired from your precious bundle that just refused to make an appearance.

“This is your fault you know.” You say glaring at Kenma. 

Kenma had grown use to your small jabs in the final weeks, he knew you didn't mean anything by it and right now he wanted nothing more than for your baby to be born. 

“What do you mean by that?” He asks .

“They take after you, stubborn little bugger.” You say rubbing your belly.

“The doctor gave us a few things to try to induce labor.” 

This comment earns him another glare. Nearly a week and a half later while you are watching Kenma stream, he had been doing them more often because he had planned to break for a few weeks after the baby was born. You sit shifting constantly unable to find a comfortable spot. You get up feeling the urge to pee yet again and when you stand up you feel a slow seeping liquid.

“Uh, Puddin’?” You say to Kenma. 

“Yes.”

“I think my water just broke.”

You had never seen him in such a panic. 

“What?!” he exclaims, ripping off his headphones and tossing them onto the desk. Before rushing out of the room. You watched on confused by what just happened, you walked over to his desk putting the headphones on your head. 

“Sorry about that everyone but we have to go. Have a good night?” You say before needing the stream and going to look for Kenma. You find him by the front door checking the bags that have been packed there for weeks. 

“Okay okay you need shoes.” He says, pulling out your shoes.

By the time you arrive at the hospital Kenma has calmed all the way down returning to his usual reserved self. You may have thought the wait was over but it wasn’t several hours of intense labor later at 2:38 am your baby is born. A little boy that looks just like Kenma. You watch as the nurse hands him the baby, he hesitates slightly before taking him into his arms, You can’t help but smile watching the scene before you. In the early hours of the morning warm light fills the room and Kenma watches you and the baby sleep just in awe.

[orsuliya]

Guess what, it’s time for more married!Awu/XQ headcanons, part 2 of who knows how many. Beware of the sappiness!

Once it becomes clear that Xiao Qi and Awu have wildly different ideas about educating children, the denizens of Ningshuo Fortress draw a collective breath. Amusingly enough, it never comes to an all out fight like the one people have been expecting… but still a rather interesting time is had by all.

See, there is no doubt that raising a legion of soldiers is as much out of question as raising a glasshouse of tropical flowers… or root vegetables. That much everybody – from Ah Li Ma to Tang Jing who were both asked to consult on the matter – can agree on. The devil lies in the details. Reading and writing is paramount, but is calligraphy really necessary? Sewing is obviously a must for all, but is fanciful embroidery? Every child should be competent with at least one weapon, but ought they also learn to play instruments, even those with no particular talent for it? At least rudimentary drawing is useful all across the board, no argument to be had there.

The problem is not that Awu and Xiao Qi cannot find a compromise in each of those cases – they absolutely can. Or rather they could... if they were not so careful of offending each other. There comes a time when Xiao Qi blurts out that a princely education is no guarantee of a clear mind or an honourable heart… and then spends the next day or two being strangely apologetic. Which Awu certainly notices, for all that she has no idea what might have caused this sudden development. Yeah, that comment didn’t really register, at least not in the way Xiao Qi fears it did. And yes, Zitan is that much of a non-entity in Awu’s mind.

At the same time Awu might have been dancing around certain subjects, loathe to admit that her husband’s writing is sufficient for the purpose, but would absolutely prevent him from pursuing any kind of serious career in civil service. And since they want their kids to have options, maybe they should think about employing a calligraphy master after all.

Don’t worry, they come clear on both issues! What else are their nightly hug-discussions for, if not resolving potentially painful matters in a relaxed, constructive and mutually satisfying manner?

______________________________

Why would Awu be dancing around certain subjects related to Xiao Qi’s level of education? It’s not like he was ever particularly sensitive to such matters as class difference, right? No sign of inferiority complex there, that’s for sure. Well…

When Awu and Xiao Qi were preparing to leave the capital, Asu made an entire production out of his sister’s upcoming departure. Ningshuo, for all that it may be paradise itself – if one listens to the locals – is rather… provincial, right? No decent wine to be had, no silks, golden bathtubs, first-class inks, high-quality perfume or incense and if there is one decent guan to be had out there, then Turnip will eat his own most decorative one!

Not that Turnip ever comes out and says that Ningshuo is his idea of hell, but still. There is a reason why Xiao Qi prefers not to take part in this whole packing rigmarole; he wouldn’t want to distress his brother-in-law too much… or rather more than he already does at court. Awu takes this brotherly care with good humour; Asu is Asu and it’s true that he would never be able to make it in Ningshuo, but they’re very different Wang breeds and she has no doubts that she will absolutely thrive once there.

The thing is that once they settle in Ningshuo, Xiao Qi starts making those little comments. Nothing really overt and really, they’re made in jest more often than not… But it’s concerning all the same. Self-deprecation is not a good look on Awu’s husband! Well, it totally is, but there are much better ones, so it’s time to stage an intervention.

The next time Awu hears that a Princess like her could have never imagined she would be forced to toil in the field, she snaps. Not like they were toiling anyway – marking out the best pastures is hardly a back-breaking work! So what does she do? Well, first she waits until the evening… and then she immobilizes her husband. True, he may still try to get up while she’s in his lap, but this way he would be forced to take her with him! It’s truly diabolical.

As her second step she asks – very seriously – who is always right in their household and is it true that it’s Princess Yuzhang. Prince Yuzhang, unaware that he’s entering a trap and also rather distracted with what’s in his lap, admits that readily enough.

If Princess Yuzhang is always right, declares Awu, and I am Princess Yuzhang, then what I say must be the absolute truth. And what I say is that you are a silly, silly man. There is nobody else that I would ever wish to call my husband and nowhere that I would rather live but here, by your side, building a future for us and our children. Why, I wouldn’t exchange our current life for any crown and I am something on an expert on those.

It works rather well, that’s as much as I will say on the matter.

______________________________

They do end up employing a calligraphy master for the children. And a painting master. And a slew of other masters as some of the kids get older and develop specific talents. Besides, there is nothing that says they need to limit their educational efforts to their own legion. Ningshuo’s population is booming and there is no better time to found a school or twenty for local children.

Of course most established scholars are very used to comfort and not really used to long trips. In short order, Ningshuo becomes the number one destination for young adventurous men of letters, most rather lacking when it comes to illustrious family background. But they are not the only ones interested in moving to Ningshuo: a good number of respectable old masters also decide to do so.

Turnip Wang tries to warn his sister that she’s playing host to a whole host of dangerous free-thinkers, some of them openly critical of this whole idea of monarchy. Oh, the horror! Awu simply looks at her harried sibling with a perfectly straight face and says that she hasn’t noticed any danger other than the danger of having exceedingly eloquent dinner-companions, which sometimes means that food grows cold before anybody even starts on it. Xiao Qi is very pointedly suppressing a smile in the background.

______________________________

Xiao Qi and Awu are that unbearably cheesy married couple who remains staunchingly and embarrassingly in love even after twenty, thirty years of marriage. And they have absolutely no qualms about public displays of affection. Which leads to some rather amusing moments while at court, but that is an entirely different story.

Now, their kids – both bio and adopted – think it’s the bee’s knees that their parental units love each other so much… but could they tone it down? Just a little? Would a tiny smidge of dignity be totally out of question? There is nothing fundamentally wrong with Father picking Mother up… but must he do it in the middle of the courtyard? And let us not even speak of farewell hugs. And the teasing. Oh, the teasing!

It gets much, much worse once the kids grow up and start pairing off. See, only now do they start to realize what some of their parents’ little quirks actually mean. And most of them mean that Awu and Xiao Qi – grey hair and all – are not that far removed from a pair of newly-weds. More that one son-in-law gets absolutely flustered – some into speechlessness – by the ever-powerful hearteyes. For some reason daughters-in-law deal with this situation much better, although approximately every second one develops… certain expectations.

______________________________

Awu and Xiao Qi do not get it on nearly as often as those poor horrified kids might think. That is they do get it on quite a lot! But it’s far from the only way of marital closeness they enjoy.

The first time Awu and Xiao Qi take a bath together establishes a routine that lasts for the rest of their lives. Dressing and undressing is Awu’s time to be petted and made much of, but bathing? Ooooh, that’s a wholly different matter.

That first time they get into a tub together it’s actually Awu who sits behind Xiao Qi and starts washing him. At first he is more than a bit bashful about it and tries to turn the tables on her, but she is relentless. Finally he starts to relax and once Awu gets to washing his hair, his state can only be described as utter contentedness. There might be some neck kisses and soothing scratches to be had as well, both of which only draw him deeper into a dreamlike trance.

After the water grows cold, Awu dresses them both in soft nightime robes and leads Xiao Qi, still pretty out of it, to bed. Not to have sex, mind you. Just to lie down and breathe together, as close to each other – bodily and mentally – as it is even possible. I am not saying that Xiao Qi cries at any point… Well, of course he cries! It is the first time he’s been treated with this kind of overwhelming tenderness; experiencing such absolute depth of care and love for the first time is an earth-shattering experience for a man who had known so little of both in his life.

They take care to repeat this experience at least once a month; after the first several times Awu no longer has to propose taking a bath together. The first time he actually asks? Her heart grows two whole sizes from sheer pride.

[everybodyscupoftea]

keeping a secret

pike jj x reader (ft. cody and tyler)

family secret santa in which the boys can’t keep a secret

this made my heart soft btw so y’all are going to melt

(warnings: cursing, light editing)

Secret Santa never worked the way it was supposed to. The four of you drew names the weekend after Thanksgiving, and when you got together to exchange gifts, you had pretty much figured out who had who.

“There’s a forfeit this year,” you interrupted their excited chatter, clutching Cody’s name in your hand, “if I find out who everyone has before we open gifts because of y’all’s dumbasses, you all have to buy me a gift.”

Tyler scoffed, “How is it our fault, maybe you’re just nosy.”

You raised your eyebrows, “So last year you didn’t borrow my chapstick and accidentally slide your slip of paper back into my pocket with the chapstick? And then JJ didn’t literally try and buy my gift while I was in the same room?”

Cody snorted, “She may have a point.”

“Yeah, I have a point. Y’all are sucking the fun out of it, so please, keep it a secret for fuck’s sake.”

“Mhmm, sure. Um, J, what were you wanting for Christmas this year?” Cody asked, grinning at you.

“I’m going to kill you,” you threatened, flipping him off, before pulling your phone out, “everyone send what they want in the group chat.”

You watched Cody’s message roll in and had to hold back a scoff at a date please.

“Cody, you’re being difficult,” Tyler complained.

“Fine,” he huffed and sent something else.

Idk kitchen shit i guess

Now that you could work with.

-

“You know,” JJ mused from where he was lying on your bed, “I think that you have me.”

“Pardon?” you asked.

“What’d you get me for Christmas, I know you have me for Secret Santa.”

You narrowed your eyes at him, “I’m not going to ask how you came to that conclusion, but I want to make it absolutely clear that if you try and ruin Secret Santa again, I will kill you.”

“You won’t,” he answered, confidently, “but I know because Tyler obviously has Cody after the text thing. And I have-” you lunged across the bed to clap your hand over his mouth.

“Maybank, I thought I was clear.”

He smirked and licked your palm until you jerked your hand back, JJ answered, innocent tone of voice, “I was just going to say that I have someone other than myself.”

“Sure you were.”

As you moved to stand, he frowned, grabbing your wrist, “I promise I’ll drop it. Can we study?”

“That’s what you’re here for.”

-

Wanna go to the mall this afternoon

Came onto your phone in the middle of your class, and you sighed, reminding yourself to respond to Tyler once the lesson was finished. Your professor let the class out early, and you responded, walking toward your apartment.

Yeah sure. What time?

Now. I’ll pick you up at your apartment

Okay I’m not quite there yet

I know. I’m sitting outside

You snorted, not even remotely surprised. He was parked right outside your building, looking down at his phone, and you ducked, sneaking around the front of his truck before popping up and tapping on the driver’s window.

He jumped high enough that his head slammed into the roof and screamed so loud and high pitched that even you flinched. Tyler grabbed his chest and glared at you, flipping you off.

Laughing, you ran around the truck and climbed into the passenger seat and asked, “What’s up, creep?”

“Nothing much, asshole.”

“To the mall?” you said, buckling up.

“Yeah, gotta get my Secret Santa gift.” You gave him a look, and he glanced over at you at a red light, “What?”

“Ty, baby, please tell me you’re not bringing me to spoil Secret Santa.”

“I’m,” he paused, “not?”

“Uh huh. Well, I hope you’re buying one for me too, that’s the deal.”

“How do you know I’m not getting one for you in the first place.”

“Tyler,” you warned, “I swear to god.”

“Darling,” he answered, “I’m not religious.”

You groaned, “I’m going to kill you before your driving does.”

-

“I need help,” Cody told you, sitting down with a dramatic frown.

“With what?” you tossed your notebook aside to give him your full attention.

He smiled sheepishly, “Can you wrap my gift for me?”

“What?”

“I know you’re joking. Did the three of you plan this? You’ve all done this.”

“Done what?”

“Tried to ruin it for me.”

“Nope, it’s honestly coincidental and absolutely hilarious.”

You rolled your eyes, “I’m not helping you.”

“Fine,” he pouted, “I guess that my person will be very disappointed, don’t want to upset-” and before he could answer, you kicked out and hit his thigh hard.

“Cody, you’re going to make me do something drastic.”

He smirked, “Oh yeah, like what?”

“I’m going to spoil it for you. I know how much you love Christmas.”

Cody looked conflicted, “Damn, you’ve kinda got me there.”

“Wrap your own damn gifts.”

-

You showed up to the frat house in your pajamas, ready to exchange gifts. Cody was in the kitchen, finishing up some snacks for the group, and you leaned against the counter, “Good afternoon, sir.”

“Good afternoon, ma’am.”

“Excited for today?”

He beamed, “Of course.”

Tyler stumbled into the kitchen rubbing sleep out of his eyes, and you gaped at him, “Bro, it’s 2 p.m.”

He yawned, scratching his stomach, “I’m catching up on sleep.”

“From what?”

“Life, bro. It’s exhausting being alive.”

Which, fucking true. You held your fist out for him to bump, “Feel that.”

“Nap later,” he suggested and you nodded.

JJ came down the stairs next and tilted your chin up to kiss you hello, tapping his fingers on your jaw a few times before pulling back.

Tyler made a gagging noise and reached for a mug of coffee Cody poured. JJ rolled his eyes, “Don’t be bitter.”

“Can we just open gifts?” Tyler whined.

You laughed and nodded, “Yes, let’s take a seat, shall we?”

Cody looked at you warily, “Why the tone?”

“Tone?” you asked, faking innocence.

JJ side eyed you, “You know?”

“I know.”

Tyler groaned, “Literally how? Who blabbed?”

“Cody did. He drunk texted me asking what JJ wanted.”

He smiled sheepishly, “I have zero recollection.”

“Okay but how did you figure out the rest?” Tyler interrupted.

“You have me, we didn’t buy anything at the mall that time we went, but you followed me around all afternoon, trying to figure out what I was interested in.” Tyler narrowed his eyes, “That obvious, huh?”

“It was. Which means JJ has you because I have Cody.”

Pushing himself back, JJ laughed, “Got it in one.”

You crossed your arms, “So I will be accepting gifts from JJ and Cody in the near future, thanks.”

Cody sighed, “We figured you’d find out, so we actually already ordered them, just not in yet.”

“Oh my god,” Tyler muttered, “y’all are awful.”

“Hey,” Cody pointed at him accusatory, “just because you weren’t at fault doesn’t mean you get to take a moral high ground, you’re the one who ruined it last year.”

“Yeah,” JJ added on, “I’m the only one who gets to take it.”

“You ruined it the first year,” you reminded him, “well, Brooke did I guess. She texted me asking why the fuck you were spending more money on my gift than hers.”

Tyler choked on his coffee, “What?!”

JJ’s jaw dropped, and you suddenly realized you’d never told any of them about it. They all stared at you, waiting for a response, “Yeah, she was mad I guess.”

“Jesus Christ,” JJ muttered.

Cody laughed, “God she was the fucking worst. That’s why your gift was cheap sweetheart.”

After a few more seconds of laughter, JJ finally interrupted, “Okay, we should actually exchange gifts.”

“Right, so, I had Cody,” you started, passing over your gift.

He tore into it and pulled out the apron that said plant mom in a script font with plants scattered randomly all over the front. He snorted, “This is fucking fantastic.

“Thank you,” you beamed, “but there’s actually more, so don’t get stuck on the apron.”

Cody pulled out a set of hockey tickets, two for the upcoming Hurricanes Leafs matchup and gasped, “Dude, oh my god, I’m going to kiss you right now.”

Laughing, you puckered your lips, “Any time, baby.”

JJ chuckled, “Mr. Steal My Girl, huh?”

“Maybank, she’d leave you in a fucking heartbeat for a Leafs player, we both know that. I’m not quite as great, but I’m close,” Cody fired back, softening it by sliding his gift for JJ across the table. 

Picking it up, JJ shook it a few times before digging through the bag. He made a weird face and pulled out a pair of boxers. His jaw dropped and Cody was very clearly holding in laughter.

“What is it?” Tyler asked, eyebrows furrowed.

Wordlessly, he held them up and flipped them around so everyone could see daddy issues written across the ass in pink writing.

You and Tyler busted out laughing as Cody sat, arms crossed looking smug. JJ was clearly unsure how to feel, close to laughing, until Cody took pity, “Don’t worry, bro, there’s more in the bag.”

Sure enough, JJ pulled out a new wallet, one he’d been eyeing for months but hadn’t pulled the trigger on because it was a bit out of budget. Smiling softly at Cody, he told him, “Thanks bro, love you.”

“Love you too, J.”

“No sappy hours early,” Tyler interrupted, “give me my gift.”

“It’s 2 p.m.,” JJ muttered but passed the box over to Tyler anyway.

He tore into it and JJ jolted forward, “Dude, it’s breakable, chill.”

Inside was a nice tea set and a box of fancy teas. Tyler blinked a few times, in awe of the contents, “Woah.”

“I know you like tea more than coffee, and we never have any here, so I figured I’d set you up.”

“I-” Tyler cut himself off, “wow, this is really thoughtful. Thanks buddy.”

“Anytime. I’ll tell you where I ordered them too so if you like one you can order more. I kinda just got a starter pack.”

“Yeah, that would be sick.”

JJ squeezed his shoulder and Tyler cleared his throat, passing a small bag across the table. You picked it up, curious, and pulled the tissue paper out. After looking, you let out a loud laugh, “Great minds, huh?”

“Great minds,” Tyler nodded, folding his hands.

“What is it?” JJ asked, leaning over.

“Leafs tickets. Two of them.”

“Well,” Cody said, “guess we can all go now. Sitting in different places, but we can make a trip of it.”

Tyler lit up, “I didn’t even think about that!”

“Boys night,” Cody cheered.

“Fuck yes,” you agreed, clutching the tickets to your chest.

“Oh,” Tyler leaned forward, “there’s something else, but it’s in my room, be right back.”

He disappeared up the stairs, and JJ stood to grab his wallet to start switching everything over. Cody looked pleased, and Tyler came running back down a few seconds later with a box in his hand.

“This too,” he huffed out, collapsing back into the chair.

“You’re going to break that one day,” you warned him, tearing into the wrapping paper. Inside was the pair of running shoes you’d talked about the day you went to the mall with him and you smiled, “Thanks, bud.”

“Mall trip successful,” he responded, taking the last sip of his coffee before standing again, “who wants tea?”

“Me,” you answered, standing with him while Cody started pulling out plates for the snacks he’d made. 

In the loudness of everyone talking over each other, you just had to smile. Sure it was chaotic, but it was your family, and you loved them all dearly.

“Oh,” you remembered, “Cody and JJ I expect my gifts on Christmas Eve, thanks.”

Cody groaned and JJ squeezed his shoulder, “You have no one to blame but yourself.”

~

for day nine of @obxmermaid​‘s holiday challenge: secret santa

[pagingevilspawn]

Can u write a one shot where jolex's toddler gets bitten by a poisonous spider and they react quickly to help her and has alex calming jo down as she starts freaking out

WARNING: THIS IS SO BAD! Okay, you asked for spiders. That meant doing research. So I looked up poisonous spiders and I saw pictures of spiders. So dear anon, you get a sting instead, because spiders are terrifying to look at and I couldn't glance at it without feeling like they were crawling all over me ;) enjoy! this is the shortest thing i’ve ever written, yikes. 

(another installment of the “payton loves evan peters too much series”)

float like a butterfly, sting like a bee

Jo Karev rested in the chair that sat on the back porch of her house, overlooking the backyard where she watched her three year old son run around with the family dog Muffin. The now full grown Golden Retriever chased after the slobbery green tennis ball the little boy had thrown into the bushes with a great deal of clumsiness, nearly tripping over his own four paws on the way. Jo lets a small laugh escape her lips, picking her glass of lemonade up from the table beside her and taking a leisurely sip, savoring the cool taste it still held since the ice cubes had yet to melt completely.

It was an unusually warm day in Seattle, temperatures reaching eighty-eight degrees despite the fact that it was only spring break, not even summer yet. The sky was clear of any clouds and the light blue proved to be comforting while she sat outside. School had been out for a few days now, so she had heard the neighborhood kids playing around in their yards, a large difference from the usually close to silent street. Only her and one other family on the block had a child that wasn’t in school yet, so the outside noise levels had steadily increased since the rest of the kids joined in on the early morning activities. More than once she had heard a couple of pre-teens race down the streets on their skateboards. Not that she minded, she loved seeing all the kids enjoy themselves, and she loved it even more for her son. Growing up she never had a life like this. It was refreshing to know that her baby boy wouldn’t grow up the same ways she and Alex had.  

A large grin paints her lips as she watches her son try to hug Muffin, since he had quickly gotten bored with playing fetch. Not to mention, the little boy always hated how wet the ball got after it had been in the dog’s mouth. Jo couldn’t blame him, she felt the same way. Alex teased them both relentlessly for it, frequently making sure to toss the slobbery ball in their direction, just so that they would need to be the ones to tear it out of the golden’s mouth.

A small kiss on the top of her head tears her gaze away from the scene in front of her, looking up to meet her husband’s eyes. He, like her, was still dressed in pajamas, despite it already almost being eleven am. They both had gotten the day off and were relishing in the free time they got to spend by themselves and with their son. 

“Kyle, careful.” Jo chastises the boy as the little Karev almost falls face first into a patch of flowers. She sees Alex sit beside her on another chair out of the corner of her eye, his brown hair messy and out of place falling into his eyes, a cup of coffee clutched in his right hand. He had gotten up the same time she did that day, eight thirty on the dot, also known as the time their son came bouncing into their room, jumping up and down on them until they finally gave in and didn't try to go back to sleep. Alex had a long night, not getting home until close to three am, only to wake up a few hours later with a bunch of paperwork he needed to do. She had a feeling he had fallen asleep halfway through, since he looked like he had just gotten out of bed. 

“Morning” he greets her, taking a sip of his drink, watching her from the side as he does so. His wife was beautiful every single time he looked at her, but something about seeing her make-up free, hair pulled up into a messy bun, and oversized clothes was when he always thought she looked her best. Then, he could see the light freckles she had sprinkled on her nose, something he had found annoyingly cute the first time he first saw them (he teased her about them way too often for her own liking). 

Jo hums in response, reaching for his hand and quickly entangling their fingers. A quiet peace settled around them, the only sounds in the air were Kyle’s laughter and faint voices of kids down the street. She closes her eyes and leans back into her seat, feeling the warm sun hit her face, causing a small smile to appear from the heat. Moments like these were rare, no matter how much they both tried to make them happen. They were both constantly getting called into cases, Jo even more so since she had switched to OB and now not only delivered babies, but preformed fetal surgery on them as well. Spending time with their son together was tough, since they worked late nights and had complete opposite schedules some days, so they grasped onto days like these and held them close. 

Ask either one of them, the scene in front of them was almost comical. If someone were to tell Alex Karev ten years ago that he would be married to the love of his life and have a three year old son he would’ve thought they were crazy. The same goes for Jo. When she was just an intern she was fearful for her life, her identity, knowing that at any second Paul could find her. The wide-eyed twenty-six year old would’ve never expected she would’ve gotten to such a happy place in her life. 

It was essentially a perfect day. The sun was out and Kyle was enjoying himself with Muffin, both Jo and Alex had time to relax and not stress about upcoming surgeries or patients back at the hospital. But of course, their perfect bubble popped when they heard a wail come from the corner of the yard, where their son was clutching his upper arm, face red and puffy as tears streamed down it. 

The two sprang into action immediately not only their parent side, but the doctor side coming out in a split second, jumping out of their chairs and dashing across the lawn, a hundred of different scenarios running through their heads by the second. 

Did he break his arm?

Trip and fall?

Get a deep scratch from a bush?

Hit his head?

Twist his ankle?

Run into something?

Jo gets to him first, pulling the little shaggy brown haired boy into her arms and wiping away his tears, his pink lips trembling as he tries to put on a brave face. He was always a show off around his mom, ever since he was born, constantly trying to earn her praise and make her laugh until she had tears coming out of her eyes. (It surprisingly wasn’t that hard of a task, Kyle was quite the comedian, as it turns out.) 

“What happened baby?” Jo coos, sad hazel eyes looking to Alex, who was trying to peel the boy’s tiny hand away from his arm. 

“A w-wasp.” Kyle buries his head into the crook of Jo’s neck, a few stray tears making its way down his face and onto the collar of her ratty old t-shirt that was actually her husband’s. She sees Alex let out an audible sigh of relief alongside a small chuckle, but Jo just sends him a glare. Harsh? Yes. But her baby boy was hurting, which was no laughing matter in her book. She didn’t care if Kyle had a papercut or had broken his leg, she would react the same way. 

Alex uses the end of his shirt to remove the stinger from Kyle’s arm, making sure to pick it up and toss it to where the three year old wouldn’t be able to step in it. “I’ll go get some ice.” he murmurs, ruffling the little brunette’s hair before jogging back to the house, returning a few minutes later with a bag of ice wrapped in a layer of a thin paper towel.

“Here you go buddy,” he places the ice pack on the slightly swollen red area, seeing his son wince slightly at the cold. 

Jo rocks him back and forth in her lap, placing tiny kisses on the top of his head, listening to his quiet sniffles. Her strong boy, never wanting anybody to know that he was hurting. Granted, it was just a wasp sting, but Kyle had gotten barely any injuries except for a scrape on the knee here and there from running around. For only three years old, he was surprisingly agile, differing greatly from his parents, since Alex practically tripped on anything in his path and Jo was prone to stubbing her toe at least once a day. (Her record was five just at the hospital; one gurney, a nurse’s counter, a doorway, a couch, and a table in the attendings lounge. She had lost count once she got home.)

Jo feels uneasy, protective mommy instincts kicking in and flow through her like a rapid river. “Should we take him to the hospital?” she runs a hand through the boy’s hair, untying any little knots that had formed from his mini adventures. 

Alex snorts, chuckling to himself. Real funny Jo. 

He feels a pair of eyes on him, looking up tentatively to meet his wife’s narrowed slits, glaring at him harshly. He raises his eyebrows, “You’re joking right?”

That only seems to set Jo off, as she opens her mouth in offense. He knows he’s about to get a lecture.  

“Are you joking?” She questions, her tone borderline terrifying as she sends daggers to her husband. 

Alex sighs, running a hand down his face. “Jo, it’s a bee sting.” he puts his hands behind him, leaning back onto his palms, ignoring the grass was still partially wet, despite the fact that the sprinklers hadn’t been on for over an hour and a half now. (Their grass seemed to not have the ability to absorb water, which might actually be because of the soil and not the actual grass itself, but who knows.)  

“And how do we know he’s not allergic!” the brunette argues back, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, gaze never wavering from his. 

“Jo, he’s not allergic.” he says exasperatedly. He knew for a fact that he and Jo could go at this for hours. More than once they’d been able to turn a thirty second argument into a two hour back and forth, switching the subjects more times than they could count, but somehow it always still came back to their original topic of discussion. He loved those fights, and he knew she did too. They thoroughly enjoyed getting to pick apart the other’s brain in something other than a new surgical procedure, suture technique, or way to get Kyle’s clothes to not look like they had been thrown in a pile of mud by the end of the day. All couple’s had their thing, and theirs was bickering like they had been married for sixty years. 

But as much as he loved those fights, he didn’t want another one of those right now. All he wanted to do that day was spend his free day off with the two most important people in his life without a care in the world. Of course, part of that had already gone down the drain, since his son had a swelling red spot on his arm and his wife was pissed at him. 

The woman glares at him, “You don’t know that”.

Alex sighs, “Jo.” he deadpans. “Is he wheezing or having trouble swallowing?”

Jo looks away, avoiding eye contact as she purses her lips. “No.” 

“Is there swelling on his face, throat, or tongue?” He hears Jo’s voice get quieter, still making sure not to look at him. 

“No.” 

“Is he experiencing dizziness, hives, a rapid p-” 

She cuts him off, throwing her hands up and sighing in defeat, “Fine! He’s not allergic.” she mumbles, causing Kyle to look up at his mom, nerves etched onto his face. 

“Mommy why are you yelling?” he questions, placing his small palm on her cheek. Jo takes his hand and pretends to eat it, making the little boy shriek with glee as he squirms in her lap like a wiggly worm. 

“Daddy was just being a big butthead because Mommy was worried about you. Weren’t you being a big butthead Daddy?” Jo smirks at him, more than glad to have her son on her side. Kyle was a momma’s boy since birth, and it didn’t seem like he had plans on changing anytime soon. Thank god, because she didn’t know what she would do when Kyle stopped coming to her for nightly cuddles. She supposed she had a few more years until that happened though, much to her relief.

Alex playfully narrows his eyes at her, taking Kyle from her hold and standing up with him latched onto his hip. “Yep, I was a big butthead. Don’t say that word though bud, it’s not nice.” 

The boy grins, his smile toothy and crooked. “Then don’t be a butthead.” he says matter-of-factly, wrapping his arms around his dad’s neck as the three make their way inside the house, Muffin trailing not far behind, wet paws making small spots on the wood. 

Alex laughs, giving Kyle a pat on the back. “I won’t be a butthead buddy. I won’t be a butthead.” He gives Jo a smile, taking in the way her eyes light up at the sight of her two favorite boys joking and playing around with each other. 

Alex leans closer to Jo, whispering so Kyle couldn’t hear them. “I’m the peds surgeon Jo, which means I'm always right.” he smirks triumphantly. 

The brunette’s mouth opens wide, partially scandalized. She slaps him on the arm, the grin never leaving her face as they enter the kitchen through the backdoor. “Asshole!”

[artxyra]

Another DC TA Marinette Story

*So the other version is strictly a one-shot drabble post while this one might, and I repeat might have more than two parts. 

Part 1: Welcome to Gotham 

Part 1 (here) | Part 2 | 

Marinette’s having a bad day. It started with her waking up late, breaking her five-day streak of waking up early. She nearly fell on her way down the stairs, thankfully she remained unharmed. Then she was late coming to class, but that mainly due to poor time management decisions. Only for her to then realize that she’s no longer a student, but the teacher assistant for Mme. Bustier’s class. 

“Look Mme. Bustier, Marinette’s late again.” Lila points out, as the graduate rolls her eyes and takes her place in the back of the classroom. 

“That’s enough, Lila.” Caline scolds, before turning her focus to her teaching assistant. “Is everything alright, Marinette?” She asks. 

Marinette nods and pulls out a folder filled with paperwork that needs to be grade. The class continues as follows. Caline spoke about the upcoming projects about the American lifestyle in specific cities. Marinette would finish the paperwork, pull out her laptop, and take a few notes on class’ behaviors. 

Everything seemed fine, but that crashed when Lila thought it would be a great idea to once again open her big mouth. 

“Mme. Bustier, I cannot do this project as [insert overly used lie here].” She pouts. 

“Girl, I can help you. She did say that we can do it as a group project.” Alya interjects with a smile. 

Lila ever with the dramatics, “Oh Alya, you can’t be serious. I don’t want you doing all the work.” 

Marinette could feel her phone buzz in her pocket. She pulls it out to see that it was a message from Gotham’s Prince. She smiles and opens the notification. 

Gotham’s Prince: Did you sleep well, Angel?

Gotham’s Fashion Sense: It was good until it wasn’t. 

Gotham’s Prince: What do you mean?

Gotham’s Fashion Sense: You’re not with me. 

Gotham’s Prince: Well, soon I will be. 

Gotham’s Fashion Sense: And I’m counting down the days. 

Marinette looks up from her phone and sees that her former classmates are staring at her. She shrugs and places her phone in her pocket.  

“What city do you plan on doing, Marinette?” Alix shouts out catching the attention of both Caline and Marinette. The teacher and her assistant lock eyes before the former curtly nod. 

“Gotham.” Marinette murmurs, gathering her supplies to neatly present them later. 

“I actually visit Gotham, you know.” Lila states, “If you need any help, I’ll gladly give information to you.”  

Marinette scoffs and forces a smile towards the pathological liar, “Thank you, Rossi, you will be my last resort.”

Lila once again started the dramatics by crying her eyes out. It is amazing how that liar can still be able to cry with the amount she has done. 

It wasn’t long before the class was over. Marinette walks over to the front desk and hands Caline the stack of graded assignments.

“Thank you, Marinette,” Caline says, accepting the assignments. 

“I want to tell you in advance that I’ll be joining my boyfriend in a couple of days. Do you think that you’ll need me during that time?” 

Caline thinks for a moment then she shakes her head, “I don’t believe so, Marinette. Thank you for the heads up in advance. How are your studies going?” 

Marinette smiles, “They’re going great, my business classes are helping me in running my freelancing business. And I already finished my fashion assignments earlier this week.” 

“I’m glad to hear that,” Caline opens the door for the two of them to exit through. Marinette walks out first with a quick curtsy to the gesture. 

Marinette’s phone buzzes again. 

Gotham’s Prince:  You are the only person that my brother will listen too, call them. 

Gotham’s Fashion Sense: Why? 

Gotham’s Fashion Sense: What did they do now? 

She didn’t receive an answer. Shrugging, Marinette places her phone in her back pocket and make a beeline to the main entrance. 

“I’m sure whatever charm you have over Mme. Bustier, will be gone before you know it,” Lila whispers into the graduate’s ear. Marinette rolls her eyes and continues to walk away. Unbeknown to Lila, it was a smirk that presented on the teen’s face rather than a pout. 

“That was very brave of you, Marinette.” Tikki complements when the two are alone. 

Marinette turns to her kwami and smiles, “I have way better things to do than to let some phony ruin my day. Besides what she does will indeed hurt her at the end.” 

“Marinette…” Tikki sighs with a giggle at the end. 

“What? You know that it’s true. As long as the class doesn’t know that I actually graduated last quarter, anything that she throws at me will be seen as an assault.” 

“You’ve been spending to much time with Jason, haven’t you?” Tikki wonders. 

“Only on the weekends, Tikki.” Her chosen jokes before catching the sight of a certain blonde model. 

“Hey, Manette,” Adrien Agreste greets, running over to the graduate.  

“Hey, Adrien, how was your photoshoot?” 

“It could have been better if Lu was there, but I rather suffer in silence and get comforted later.”

“That’s...good to hear.” Marinette’s eyes narrowed unsure of her reply. “Have you thought about the city assignment?” 

Adrien shakes his head. “Honestly, I have no clue. I was planning on doing Smallville, but I don’t know.” He looks to Marinette with kitten eyes, “Are you really doing Gotham?” 

Marinette nods only to lean against a nearby wall. 

“I figure that would be easier to do since I’ve been there and all.” She admits, holding her arms against her chest. 

“Great, Gorilla is here.” Adrien groans. 

“He’s more of a guardian than anyone else,” Marinette states, spotting the large bodyguard and pushing herself off the wall. 

Adrien sighs and wishes the fashion designer a farewell before heading over to Gorilla. Marinette smiles softly seeing how much the model has changed since entering the public school system. Of how he has grown since becoming Chat Noir, granted they did have their ups and downs but once he finally accepted his being, everything has been smooth sailing. 

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

Gotham’s Prince: Check Twitter.  

Marinette’s eyebrow raises at the message and she opens up her Twitter app. 

Dick Grayson @theflyinggrayson Grumpy-pants here is missing his GF

Below shows a picture of Damian Wayne looking at his phone with what appears to be a sad look on his face. 

A chuckle escapes her mouth. 

Manette @GothamsFashionSense  Thanks for the laugh @theflyinggrayson, I pretty sure that you all miss me.

 Marinette then adds a cute kitten gif relating to the post. 

Gotham’s Prince: What the hell, Angel! 

Gotham’s Fashion Sense: You asked and I delivered

Marinette places her phone back into her back pocket and walks in the direction of her family’s bakery.

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

“What do you mean you won’t be able to come?” Caline Bustier asks her assistant in the middle of a meeting. Marinette bites her lower lip and looks between the principal and the full-time teacher. 

“What I mean is that I’ll be overseas staying with my boyfriend’s family around that time. At the very least tell where you’re having the class exchange at and I can make plans around that.” Marinette informs the two with arms cross and an irritated look on her face.

“The exchange is with Gotham Academy, Mlle. Dupain-Cheng.”   

Marinette’s eyes bug out. Her whole demeanor changes. “No,” She denies. 

“Will that be a problem, Mlle. Dupain-Cheng?” The principal asks slightly concern for the alumna’s wellbeing. 

Marinette straightens herself out. “No, in fact, I will already in Gotham. If something does come up, I will only be a phone call away. Will I get there in time that will depend on what I am doing at the moment.” 

Caline’s face brightens, she’s not going to be alone with the class in Gotham. “That’s great news to hear, Marinette.” 

“Yes, I’m sure. The trip is in a month, correct?” 

“Yes, and the exchange will last for about four weeks. Mme. Bustier will only be there to oversee the program and class if something were to go array. They will be living in housing provided by the school as we’ll do the same to their students.” The principal states. 

Marinette nods, “Is that everything or do I need to fill out any paperwork allowing me to supervise the class while at Gotham Academy?” 

“I do have the paperwork here for you to fill to get access into the building. Other than that you--well we should be fine. I will inform you if anything has changed.” 

“Thank you, Principal De La Fontaine.” Marinette exits the office with a smirk on her face.  

Ever since the akuma has begun showing up in France, the Paris school board officials declared Principal Damocles unfit to be a principal and opted for De La Fontaine to oversee college and lycee of the Dupont schools seeing as they are short-staffed. Marinette was able to take the Baccalauréat after pleading to her parents. Thankfully, she was able to pass on her first try and even convinced the school to allow her to be a teaching assistant until the end of the school year. 

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

“I’m telling you Dami, I have everything ready and pack for my trip to see you.” Marinette states into the phone. She sighs and switches shoulders as she is placing the final set of clothes into her suitcase. On the other side of the phone, Damian said something that causes her to roll her eyes. “Damian I will end this call; besides, you know that I would call you if something goes wrong. I’ll see you in two days. Je t'aime.” Marinette ends the call before she couldn’t find it in her to blow up her international data even more. 

 Marinette throws herself onto her chaise sighing, “Tikki, should I take the miraculous box with me or ask Kaalki to open up a portal?” She wonders as her flying ladybug kwami hovers beside her. 

Tikki, munching on a cookie, says, “Marinette would it even matter. You use Kaalki every time you go to Gotham. It’s a miracle that you’re parents haven’t caught on yet.” 

“You say miracle, I say luck.” Marinette plays, “Besides making it look like I go to the airport has covered my quick trips pretty darn well.” 

“Well, what are we going to do about Hawkmoth?”   

“I’m giving Luka and Kagami their miraculous for when the class goes to Gotham as Adrien will most likely be joining them. Hopefully, Hawkmoth doesn’t do anything drastic while we’re gone.” Marinette sighs and kicks herself over to lay on her back. 

Tikki could only smile at how far her chosen has come. From the unsure thirteen-year-old to the now strong level-headed seventeen-year-old woman. Ever since Fu’s amnesia, Marinette has done a great job of making sure that everything regarding the miraculous box is kept secret and safe. She created a box similar to her diary box to protect the miraculous box. 

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

After giving Luka and Kagami their miraculous, she (as Ladybug) informed them that she will be once again going on a vacation overseas. The two wished their friend farewell with the promise of calling her when Hawkmoth attacks.

“I expect details on the proposal when I get back,” Marinette demands, pointing at Luka causing him to blush thinking about a certain cat-themed hero. 

“You’ll give a heart attack if you keep saying things like that, Manette.” 

“I know,” Marinette beams. 

The group of three hugs each other before parting ways. 

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

Gotham’s air may have never been clean as crimes happen all the time, but to Marinette, it was like a second home. She loves returning back to Gotham since she met the Wayne family, which was completely by accident. Well, it wasn’t much of an accident it was through Jagged Stone that they met; however, it was by accident how she met Damian. 

“Angel! You’re here...finally.” Damian greets his lover of two and a half years. Marinette giggles and runs into his arms. She misses the feeling of his body warmth and well just him in general. Just don’t tell the others that.  

“Of course, I’m here and now you’re stuck with me for two months.” 

Damian is taken back, “What happened to being here for two weeks?” 

“A class exchange with Gotham Academy. As the TA of the class selected, I was roped into joining them on their journey to hell.” 

Damian curtly nods his head and wraps his arms around her torso. He kisses her cheek causing the Paris native to blush.

Manette @GothamsFashionSense Look’s who’s back in action. Can’t wait to spend time with you all. 

In the attachment is a photo of Marinette posing in front of the Wayne Enterprises with a smile reaching her eyes. Comments flood the designer’s notifications to the point she had to turn them off. The majority of the comments were from the same people, the entirety of the Bat-family.  

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

“Jay-Jay, I swear if you play a prank on me, you’ll receive no cookies for the rest of the week,” Marinette growls, exiting the guest bedroom--well it’s really hers, but won’t admit it.

“Todd, it’s too early for this.” Damian groans, coming from behind the designer in a personalize pajama design set. 

Jason stares at the two in shock and teasingly asks with a mock sense of seriousness, “Did you at least used protection?” 

Marinette’s jaw drops as murderous intent rolls off Damian. 

“I’m gonna kill you, Todd!” Damian screeches, pulling a katana out from miraculous knows where and chase at the laughing anti-hero. Marinette stood frozen as a rosy pink color spreads across her cheeks. 

“Why would Master Damian and Master Jason be running down the halls, Miss Marinette?” Alfred wonders, appearing in front of the designer. 

Marinette shakes her head and gives the butler a cheeky smile, “Jay-Jay being inappropriate. I wouldn’t be surprised if he actually kills Jason today.” 

Alfred sighs and tells her that breakfast should be done in a moment. Marinette happily nods then returns back to her room to get change. 

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

“What do you mean that Marinette isn’t coming to class?” Chloe shrieks, when Adrien announced that Marinette had left for a trip yesterday. The entire class could only focus their ears on the two blondes for gossip. 

“It’s like I said, Mari, said she’ll be gone for a couple of weeks. She didn’t say where and all I know is that Mme. B let her off the presentation assignment.” 

Chloe scoffs then huffs at the newfound information. “Well, that will explain why Lu and Gami showed up last night instead of her.” 

“I’m sure she’ll give us a call when she settles in,” Adrien adds on just as Mme. Bustier walks into the classroom with a stack of papers in hand. 

“Good evening class.” She greets, setting the stack down on her desk. “As you all know, our class was selected for a class exchange with our American partners. These are your permission slips to sign and date for the trip. If there is any question, please do not hesitate to contact me.” 

“How long will we be gone for?” Alya asks raising her hand without being called on. 

“The program will last for four weeks. What you learn during the exchange will count as a credit to graduate.” The teacher smiles. “Are there any other questions?” 

No one else raises their hands. Caline smiles at this and begins to hand out the permission slips. 

“Have these all turned in by the end of this week.” 

“What about, Marinette?” Surprisingly, this question didn’t come from the protect Marinette squad but instead Juleka, who is usually quiet in the class. 

Caline is taken back, “Marinette will be joining us for this exchange. We have already contacted her parents. Are there any other questions?” 

The room goes silent. Caline nods and turns on the projector. “Today we will be going over your presentation assignment. The only person excused is Marinette as she has completed hers in advance.” 

Of course, the class blows up at that declaration. 

 “What, why does she get special treatment?” Alya’s voice booms through the classroom. “If you one it should be Lila!” 

“Alya, calm down, the reason why Marinette did her assignment is that she won’t be with us these coming weeks. If you have an issue with that take that up with her. Now please, can I continue with my lesson.” Caline could feel a headache coming. Maybe it wasn’t such a good idea to mention Marinette’s presentation and just use it as a template for the others to follow. 

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

Manette @GothamsFashionSense    Been in town for two days and these idiots are still the same. Mar’i, honey, you the best!

Below the tweet is an attached image of Marinette sitting in the middle with Mar’i Grayson on her lap laughing as Damian appears to be yelling at Jason, Tim’s head smack-down on the table a coffee cup in hand. Dick behind them all with Kori’s arm wrapped around his torso. 

Marinette laughs at the impending struggle Damian has in an attempt to once again harm Jason. She plays with the young toddler on her arms as Mar’i tries to take a scoop of the leftover ice cream. Marinette bounces the young Grayson in her lap and feeds a scoop of ice cream. 

“It’s so nice to have you back, Nette. Mar’i miss her Auntie.” 

Marinette chuckles brushing off the comment, “Mar’i has several other Aunts, how could she miss me? Beside’s I’m not even a Wayne.” 

Kori raises an eyebrow and Dick coughs up a “Yet.” before turning away as if he didn’t spill anything important. 

“Pardon?” Marinette wonders turning her attention to the older Grayson. 

“It’s nothing Bluebird, just a cough that is all.” Marinette purses her lips before deciding to let it go to play with Mar’i. 

Mar’i squeals in delight as Marinette plays with her stomach.

Damian watches from the corner of his eye. A smile sneaks it’s way up onto his face. 

“Wake up, Replacement.” Jason say as he kicks Tim’s leg. 

Tim’s arms grab the nearest coffee cup and drinks from it. He bounces back up with sleep still in his eyes. 

“Tim, you need sleep.” Marinette states. 

“Look whose talking. When’s the last time you slept?” Tim counters, knowing that they would have battles on who can stay up the longest without rest. They’re pretty much tied for first. 

Marinette was about to open her mouth, but one glance at Damian told her otherwise.

“Angel, when was the last time you slept--I mean actually slept?” Damian asks, appearing behind her. He kisses her cheek. She blushes and leans her head into his chest. 

“I’m fine, my prince. I actually slept well last night.” She answers before whispering, “Being next to you and all.”  

Jason oohs but quickly moves to evade the punch that Damian was about to throw. Marinette laughs and pushes away the mess that Mar’i created on the table. What a normal evening with the Wayne’s. 

“So, Bluebird, how are your studies going? I hear that you have a big project coming up soon.” Jason asks, taking a seat across the designer. 

Marinette chuckles, “They’re going great and that big project you supposedly heard about is nearly done, but it’s not for a class.” She teases. 

“Do we at least get to see it? C’mon Bluebird, help your brother out.” 

“Damian doesn’t even know about it.” Marinette narrows her eyes at her boyfriend. Damian chokes on his drink and looks away. “Jay-Jay you will be the first to know.” 

“Hey, what about me?” Mar’i’s voice asks looking up to her aunt. 

“The second person, Jay-Jay, you will be the second.” The designer corrects herself before snuggling the younger Grayson in her arms. Mar’i giggles.

Jason scoffs, but he has to agree that seeing Marinette and Mar’i acting all cute and stuff was a miraculous sight to see. 

Dick Grayson  @theflyinggrayson The two Maris in one place 

Attach is a photo of Marinette holding Mar’i outside the ice parlor smiling at one another with Damian off to the side looking longingly at Marinette. Comments from the surrounding BatFamily, Dick’s followers and co-workers flood the comments section. 

----------

Two weeks of pure and utter bliss. Too bad, it had to end seeing as the worst class at Dupont Public schools in Paris is coming to Gotham Academy the next day or so. Marinette’s mentally preparing herself to the slaughter of comments that will be coming her way. 

“Mme. Bustier, I can assure you that I will check with the academy this afternoon about the arrangement. You can worry about preparing the class for this trip.” Marinette speaks into the phone. 

Damian waits for the call to end to sweep in and be the caring boyfriend. He kisses her cheek and holds her. 

“These next four weeks are going to be hectic. I just know it..” Marinette mumbles to him. Damian huffs tightening his grip. 

“Thank you, Dami.” Marinette pauses, “I really needed that.” 

“Of course, Angel.” They kiss. “Do you need any help?” 

Marinette shakes her head. 

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

Back in Paris, the class gathers at Dupont for departure. Parents came and went saying goodbye to their teens and wish them the best. Lila’s already trying to spin a story that focuses on her and this time she really trying hard to spin her web deeper than ever 

“It’s been forever since I’ve been in Gotham, you know. The last time I was there, it was for a Wayne Gala and my Damibear asked me out. It was so magical. I was dress is this sunset like gown and he was matching me. You know, when I told him that I was coming, he practically jumped with joy…” 

Adrien and Chloe could only wince at the sound of her voice and eluded lie. Everyone in their right mind would know that Damian Wayne has been in a relationship with this girl under the username GothamsFashionSense as the Wayne family tweet about her a lot. Along with that, she look eerie similar to Marinette but with black hair and pink lowlights.  

“I can’t wait to see their faces when the cat jumps out of the bag. Oh, how her empire will crumble to nothing.” Chloe admits to, reapplying her lip-gloss.

“Well, I just hope this all ends before graduation. Do you think Mari will be joining us on the flight or something?” Adrien wonders as he watches Luka say his goodbyes to his sister. 

Chloe shrugs and looks at Kagami, who’s coming their way. 

“‘Gami,” Chloe greets hugging the Japanese fencer. 

“Hey Bee, and hello to you too Adrien.” 

Adrien curtly nods to Kagami. Luka walks over to them and stands behind the blonde model. No one but the two women in front of them notices the interlocking of their hands. 

“You think you can live without your model for a couple of weeks?” Chloe hints with a smirk on her face. 

Luka sarcastically laughs, “Yes, I’m sure Bee.  Though the real question is can you last without your dragon for four weeks.”

Chloe scoffs as Kagami laughs pulling her girlfriend closer to her. 

It wasn’t long before Mme. Bustier called for the class to get onto the bus. The couple gave their significant others a quick kiss or in Adrien’s and Luka’s case a hand tightening before heading off. Oh what they shall await when they reach Gotham. 

~Part 2

As of 12/9/19, the Tag List is CLOSED

Any asks before that will still be added. After that, I’m sorry but can follow my fic tags.

Tag List: @virgil-is-a-cutie | @thejustmesimplyme | @mewwitch | @tamoni112 | @goggles-mcgee | @bb-basbusa | @mochinek0 | @schrodingers25 | @zalladane | @jessigurl-design | @constancetruggle | @tog84 | @shamefullove | @mindfulmagics | @scribblinggraveyard | @clumsy-owl-4178 | @captainmac6 | @vivilakitty | @sonif50 | @mystery-5-5 | @emjrabbitwolf

[taesthetes]

let’s unfall in love.

what if it began with the epilogue?

pairing: jeon jungkook x reader genre: angst, fluff type: college au word count: 3,291 words warnings: none playlist: 13 (lany) ⋆ 7up (boy in space) ⋆ pancakes (lany) ⋆ i.l.y. (the rose) ⋆ a poem titled you (taeyeon) ⋆ so, soo pretty (lany) author’s note: based on my college shenanigans and a few relationships i’ve witnessed my friends have

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

It doesn’t end with a bang.

It ends with a quiet click of the lock and him sliding the key under the front door, instead of letting it hang from the bunny keychain you bought him three years ago. The apartment meant for two now only houses one, and the furniture that two chose together is now only owned by one. His last whispered goodbye echoes softly in the corners of the room before the silence settles around you in a stifling manner.

He had picked up the final box of his remaining items that you painstakingly packed away. The bigger items had been moved in the past two weeks, but you carefully gathered the last of his belongings and trinkets hidden within your once shared home earlier today. Three years of memories have all been reduced to one cardboard box filled with knick knacks. Will he throw away the ticket stub from your first movie date together? Will the small teddy bear be donated? You hope he won’t.

Sitting on the bed that now seemed too big, you reach over to your nightstand, tugging open the bottom drawer. You pull out the oversized, worn out black sweater with a small hole near the right sleeve. With a quiet smile, you register the faint smell of his cologne, balling up the soft fabric and pressing your nose to its collar. You hope he doesn’t mind that you kept one thing of his.

The break up is no surprise.

It’s been making its home in the back of your mind and his until it became so cluttered and prominent that the two of you were forced to address it. Perhaps it was your fault, maybe it was his, or it very well may be the culmination of both your faults. But the last grains of sand have slowly trickled down the hourglass, and your love for one another has reached its end. This isn’t where you and Jungkook envisioned your relationship would end, but what couple would ever predict their downfall? You hope he never did.

You neatly fold his sweater and tuck it away in a shoebox, pushing it into the farthest crevice of your closet: your final reminder of him resting on the empty side that was once his.

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

You are exhausted, rubbing your temples, and your throat is hoarse from yelling. Jungkook stands on the opposite side of the room, arms crossed over his chest, unable to look at you anymore. Since when were you no longer on the same team, but fighting against each other in the same war?

The small argument had only escalated into something bigger until all the feelings that the two of you have been pushing down bubbles up into an ugly eruption.

“Where were you? I thought you’d be back by seven.”

“I got dinner with the boys.” he shrugged, dumping his bag on the ground next to the door.

“I told you to hang up your bag because someone can trip over it. And I made dinner.”

He swipes his backpack off the floor and tosses it onto the couch, much to your irritation. “I forget my things if I don’t leave it near the door. If you watch where you’re walking, you wouldn’t be faceplanting over a bag leaning against the wall.”

You take a deep breath, ignoring his sniping response. “I made dinner for us.”

“I’m not hungry. I can wrap it up and eat it tomorrow.”

“You’re never here anymore.” (I miss you.)

“It’s not my fault you haven’t been here for dinner for the past month, so I just assumed you’d be out tonight, too.” (You never spend time with me anymore.)

“I have work and classes, and we never made any plans! If you told me we had dinner plans, I would have gotten someone else to take my shift.” (Life keeps getting in the way of us. Why is it getting so hard for us?)

“It’s one time. I’ve been fine with you missing dinner all this time, so why can’t you be understanding of this one time?” (Why are we arguing like this?)

“I always texted you that I won’t be home! You couldn’t even send me one text?” (What happened to trusting each other?)

“I’m sorry, okay? It’s not that big of a deal. God, you’re suffocating me! You’re always acting like my mother.” (You’re not the person I fell in love with anymore.)

“Maybe if you stopped being so immature, I wouldn’t have to!”  (You’re not the person I fell in love with anymore.)

“I can’t do this anymore.” (Maybe we should break up.)

Where did the two of you go wrong?

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

The moonlight filters through the gauzy curtains, casting soft shadows onto the empty side of the bed. It’s nearly midnight, and his place remains empty and cold. You lie in bed, scrolling aimlessly through your phone, as your laptop is abandoned next to you, the Netflix page to Brooklyn 99 already pulled up and open to the next episode for your shared nights together.

Looking at the bright Instagram photos of your friends on what seemed like an extremely fun club outing you had declined earlier in the day, you wish you had accepted their invitation. You close the app before reaching over and picking up your laptop, opening up the document for your upcoming research paper. You might as well work on it until he comes home for your tv marathon Friday night tradition.

[12:54 a.m.] golden bf: hey i took an extra shift and forgot to tell you. sorry

With a sigh, you save your document and close your laptop. Moving off the bed, you place your laptop onto your nightstand before picking up the untouched bowl of popcorn. You make your way to the kitchen, leaving the snack on the counter, before going back to bed alone. 

When you wake up, his side of the bed is slightly messy, any traces of warmth barely lingering behind. You groggily pull yourself out of bed, pulling the blanket around your shoulders, as you stumble out into the joint living room and kitchen area. Jungkook stands behind the counter, downing a cup of coffee.

“Hey,” he tiredly greets you before placing his mug in the sink and moving towards the door. “I’m going to class early to ask some questions before the midterm.”

“Oh, okay.” You make your way to the kitchen before pausing. “Good luck on your midterm.”

“Thanks.” He quickly slides on his shoes and then twists the doorknob and walks out. Halfway through the door, he hesitates before saying halfheartedly, “Love you.”

And then he disappears. You stare at the coffee machine whirring before you, the drip drip of the liquid following soon after. “Love you, too.”

Since when did I love you’s become shortened to love you’s? And when did they start to feel like habitual obligations, instead of heart racing confessions?

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

You are pacing back and forth in the kitchen, palms feeling clammy, as you await for the phone call with bated breath. Jungkook is by the stove, glancing at you worriedly, as he pours the last of the pancake batter onto the pan. He makes a mental note to go to the grocery store after his last class tomorrow. Besides the five pack of ramen in the cupboard, all he could find was pancake mix. So pancakes it is for dinner. 

“What if they don’t call?” you mumble, clenching your hands into fists and anxiously staring at your cellphone laying innocently on top of the counter.

“They will. You’ll get the internship,” Jungkook quietly assures you. Sliding the last one onto the tower of pancakes, he turns off the stove and places the pan in the sink. He reaches out to grasp your hands, gently unfurling them and intertwines his fingers with yours. “You’re smart and amazing and kind, and they’d be lucky to have you.”

“But, what if—”

The phone rings, interrupting you, and you freeze. Jungkook squeezes your hands reassuringly. One squeeze. Four squeezes. Three squeezes. You take a deep breath, he lets go of your right hand, and you pick up your phone.

“Hello? ... Yes, that’s me. ... Yes, yes, I understand. .... Yes, thank you so much. ... Thank you, bye.”

You place the phone back onto the counter, and Jungkook looks at you expectantly. Heart rapidly pounding in your chest, you manage to finally get the words out, “I got the internship.”

A full blown grin blooms across his face as he wraps his arms around you, tugging you in and spinning you around. Laughing, you bury your face in the space between his neck and shoulder, throwing your arms around him as well. When you pull away, he presses kisses all over your face as you giggle, swatting at him to stop.

“I knew it.” He smirks at you triumphantly, still hugging you tightly to his chest. “I knew you’d get it. I even bought this on my way home to celebrate.”

Walking over to the fridge, he proudly pulls out a bottle of champagne, setting it on the counter. “Pancakes and champagne. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate. Can you?”

Shaking your head, you grin as he places the corkscrew and two mismatching mugs on the countertop. With a resounding pop, he pours out a drink for the two of you. Keeping the frog patterned mug for himself, Jungkook hands the holiday themed cup to you. He presses a kiss to your cheek and positively beams when you return the gesture.

“I love you, babe. I’m so proud of you.”

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

“What about Spike?”

You frown at him. “That sounds like a generic dog name a small child would give to a Rottweiler.”

“Hey, I’ll have you know Spike is a very good boy. Our plant should be honored that it’s named after a canine icon in the Jeon household.” Jungkook stands next to the three plants you had placed in the windowsill of your shared new apartment. “Besides, you already named our first two plant children.”

“I only named one!” you protest, pointing to the tiny budding succulent on the far right. “The other one was a housewarming gift from Namjoon, and he said he already named it Blossom. So I thought we could do a Power Puff Girls theme and named this one Bubbles. And that one can be Buttercup.”

“But I want a Spike the Second.” Jungkook sulks before reaching out and longingly touching one of the prickles on the cactus. “He looks like a Spike.”

Blossom, Bubbles... and Spike.

Your boyfriend stares at you, widening his doe eyes and pouting, and you sigh, relenting. “Okay, we’ll name it Spike.”

He brightens up immediately, leaning down to be face level with the cactus. “You’re the best plant ever, Spike. I’ll be a better plant dad than Namjoon.”

Three weeks later, you notice the dead plant on the windowsill. You don’t know how Jungkook managed to kill a cactus, but you do know that he will be absolutely devastated if he finds out. You quickly run out to buy a new one and replace it before he gets home. Jungkook is none the wiser, ever the doting plant parent.

Luckily, Spike the Third continues to live on.

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

You sit on the wooden bench, tugging off your shoes before pulling on the ice skates. You lace them up easily, tying the ends into double-knotted bows. Jungkook takes a seat next to you, slowly removing his timberlands before somewhat reluctantly sliding his feet into the ice skates he rented at the counter earlier.

“Jungkook.”

“Hmm?” He looks up towards you, and you tilt your head slightly. “Is this your first time ice skating?”

“... How did you know?”

You smile softly. “You look a little nervous. Here.”

You kneel down next to him, reaching over to tighten his laces. “These need to be a little tighter. Can’t have you flopping all over the ice.”

He huffs a little, crimson blossoming on his cheeks. He is bundled up in a semi-puffy jacket with a maroon beanie pulled over his head, and you’re reminded of how similar he looks to one of those cute little puffed up robins.

“Around the tree and down the rabbit hole... There!” You finish tying his skates, oblivious to the soft gaze he has on you the entire time, and shove both your pair of shoes and his into the locket below the bench. “You’re ready to skate.”

“W-wait! How do I get over there?” Jungkook desperately clutches onto your arm, legs shaking. You grab his hand, lacing your fingers with his tightly. “Just take one step at a time slowly.”

Leaning heavily on you, he stumbles his way towards the rink, finally reaching the edge of it. He clings onto the wall and your hand before taking one baby step onto the ice. You skate next to him with interlocking hands as he makes a careful circle around the rink next to the wall, precariously wobbling like Bambi on ice.

“This is so embarrassing,” he mumbles, turning pink when some children zip past him.

“You’re doing good! Everyone has to start somewhere.” You gently tug him away from the wall, and he teeters slightly before tightly grabbing onto your arm. The two of you start to move, skating slowly but surely. “See? You’re skating!”

“I’m skating!” A gleeful expression spreads across his face as he pushes one foot in front of the other more enthusiastically. He lets go of your arm, gliding forward. The amount of pure, unadulterated joy emitting from him makes you grin as you skate behind him. “I’m doing it! I’m actually—”

Thump.

Bewildered, he stares up at you from the floor in shock, doe eyes widened and bottom planted firmly on the ice. You can’t help it as laughter bubbles up from your throat, and you quickly skate over to him. “Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry for laughing, are you okay?”

His shoulders relax as he starts to chuckle, eyes twinkling. “I’m good. I think I just fell for you though.”

Your shoulders shake as you laugh even more, reaching down to pull him up. “Let me help yo—”

Thump.

You find yourself sitting on the cold surface next to him, slightly dazed. Jungkook laughs freely, eyes forming perfect moon crescents, and while the coldness may be seeping through the fabric of your jeans, you have never felt warmer than ever, grinning back at the boy next to you. The two of you carefully help each other up. You slip your hand into his, squeezing it tightly, and he smiles at you, eyes sparkling. You bravely lean up and place a soft kiss to his cheek, making him beam.

"I guess I fell for you, too.”

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

“Shoot, I’m so sorry!”

The bright red substance more affectionately known as jungle juice has now decorated the front of your shirt, the fabric clinging to your figure more than ever. You look up to see a doe eyed boy nervously standing in front of you, the telltale red solo cup in his hand.

“I didn’t mean to, someone pushed into me from behind, and it just spilled over,” he rambles, placing his cup on the table and scrambling around to find some napkins or towels or just something to help the cute person that he just made a complete fool of himself in front of. “God, do they even have napkins at parties like these?”

“Hey, hey, it’s okay,” you place your hand on his arm, stopping him in his tracks like a deer in the headlights. “Maybe help me find a bathroom to wash this out?”

“Yeah, yeah, okay, there’s one upstairs.” You follow behind him as he pushes his way through everyone until you reach the stairs. “God, I’m really sorry, I don’t even go to parties. Yugyeom said there was gonna be free pizza, so I came, and then all they had were drinks and he insisted I have one, and I just— Sorry, anyway, here’s the bathroom.”

“First off,” you say, dabbing at your shirt with some wet towels, as he anxiously sits on top of the closed toilet. “You should never trust Yugyeom about those things. He told me the same thing before and when I showed up, all he had was an expired frozen Digiorno’s pizza left thawing on the counter.”

He snorts at that, reaching over to wet some more paper towels for you before handing them over. “I was desperate, sue me. I’m down to my last packet of ramen. I would do anything for a slice of pizza at this point.”

You thank him, using the new towels to wipe at your shirt futilely. Sighing, you toss them into the trashcan, accepting the fact that your shirt is past the point of no return. Wine stains are the worst.

“Well, pizza boy, looks like you poured your drink on the right person. I know a great place that opens late and sells whole pizzas for five dollars. You in?”

“Wait, really?”

“Well, I can’t finish a whole pizza myself, and it’s gonna be hard trying to find my friends now.” You wave your hand around vaguely. “So you up for pizza?”

“Heck yes, but wait.” He hurriedly tugs off his jean jacket and pulls off his black sweater, leaving him in a white v-neck t-shirt. He shyly holds out the sweater to you. “Here, put this on. It’s gonna be cold out.”

You grin, accepting his sweater and slipping it on with ease, reveling in its warmth. He puts on his jean jacket again and secretly hides a smile when he notices how the sweater envelopes you, the sleeves covering your hands and giving you sweater paws.

“Thanks...?”

“Jungkook,” he supplies, smiling widely at you. “I’m Jungkook.”

“Nice to meet you, Jungkook. I’m _______.”

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

"I’m here, I’m here!”

Standing next to the business building, you look up from your phone to see Eunha running towards you, hair flying. She quickly smoothes down any stray strands when she skids to a stop in front of you. “Sorry, I’m a little late.”

“No worries, how was your class?” You slip your phone into your backpocket, walking side by side with your friend towards the dining hall.

“Ten minutes in, he already assigns us a group project. Like c’mon, we just got out of summer break and he hits us with this thing that’s worth 30% of our grade!” she complains, waving her hands around in frustration. “You know what’s even worse? He assigned us random group partners. Do you know Myoui Mina, Kim Mingyu, or Jeon Jungkook?”

You purse your lips, thinking back to your previous classes. “Mina is really nice. She let me borrow her notes when I was sick. Mingyu was in my business law class, I think maybe? It was an eight a.m. lecture, so I didn’t pay attention to whatever was going on. I don’t know any Jungkook though.”

“Well, at least I know one member of my group is reliable.”

“Did you swap numbers and set up a group meeting at least?”

“Yeah,” she grumbles, “We’re all meeting Thursday night in the library.”

You shoot her a reassuring smile. “See? I’m sure it’ll all be fine. Now let’s hurry before they run out of the good whipped cream for waffles.”

“Oh my god, you’re right, we gotta run.”

⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆

“If I read our story backwards, it's about how I un-broke your heart, and then we were happy until one day, you forgot about me forever.”  — The Tiny Book of Tiny Stories: Volume 1.

[pandawritesmanythings]

(Loki x Reader Medieval AU)

Chapter Summary: Time to meet Asgard!

Warnings: Mentions of war, 

Word Count: 3,259k

A/N: I’m having a lot of fun figuring out how this world works and figuring out the lore! Let me know what you guys think!  

Masterlist

-

"Do you know when your brother and Lord Strange will arrive?" Wanda asked as she folded the sheets of your bed.

"With any luck, between today and tomorrow." You answered, absentmindedly turning a page of the book Loki had given you.

It was a most interesting read. It reminded you a lot of Victor Hugo's, Les Miserables. However, this wasn't fiction about a revolution in one of the provinces of Midgard. This was based on a true story of 6 people's lives who intertwined and ended in a tragedy.

How the author had come about the documents to write this story left you utterly baffled. It was so descriptive, so precise, that she must have been an eyewitness. 

But the fact is that upfront, she had said that this was based on a story from the beginning of Asgard's ascent as a kingdom. She wasn't alive then, you had rushed to the library to confirm that after finishing the third chapter.

It was a beautifully written piece of history and literature.

"I take it prince Peter will be excited to see you."

Oh, right. You should probably pay attention to what Wanda is saying.

"I think so too. He had that look on his face, you know?" You placed your book on your lap, a leather bookmark in the place where you had left off. "Kind of like when I would leave him in the library when he was very little. Like I wasn't going to come back."

A small pressure was on your chest. A sense of longing for those older days. When you were a teen and the worst of your worries was a good posture for Pepper and a charming smile for your father.

"Well, to be fair you did threaten him a couple of times with doing so if he didn't behave." Your friend laughed.

"That I did!" You laughed alongside her.

When it died down, you looked at the red-head earnestly. "How long has it been since we spent an afternoon together?"

She pursed her lips, thinking back. "With all that's been going on... I would believe at least a month."

You clapped your hands, with newfound resolution. "Well, since the Asgardians seem to think I am just a walking trophy, let us spend one evening together."

"But, don't you have to meet up with prince Loki tomorrow?" A bit of worry was on her voice.

"Of course, but he said he was going to be busy for the rest of the day and I am far beyond the chapters he proposed." You smile, a flare of mischief in your chest.

Wanda, quick on her feet, fluttered over to where you sat by your window with excitement and sat next to you.

"What are we to do, then?"

"Whatever we wish for, my friend."

"Are you sure this is it?" Sigyn asked the red-head in front of her.

"Yes, Lady Sigyn. These are all of the loaves." He cleaned his hands in his apron. 

About 100 loaves of bread were sitting on the counter in front of her. Maybe she should have brought more baskets.

"Alright... I might need to make a couple of trips, Kassian" She smiled sheepishly.

"Oh, you don't have to worry!" He walked towards her, starting to place some of the loaves in a huge basket that you could strap to your bag. "I'll help."

She rushed forwards, "No, please don't!" He looked back at her with curiosity. "I know your father is usually busy around this hour, I wouldn't want you getting in trouble my dear friend."

"Don't worry! I've helped some of the other servants before, it will be no problem!"

His smile was kind, and although she was still a bit hesitant, in the end, Sigyn nodded and began helping Kassian pack all of the loaves.

The hike back up the castle was much easier with the help of the friendly baker. Walking along the narrow streets and up the stairs that led to the kitchen, both quickly made it to their destination without much chatter.

"Thank you, Kassian."

"It was my pleasure." He seemed to smile a lot.

"I'll go by later to pick up my own order for the week. Is that okay?" She asked as she unloaded the bread from the make-shift backpack.

He nodded. "Of course! You know you are always welcome home."

Soon after finishing the unloading, they said a quick goodbye, and Kassian scurried out of the palace. Sigyn began humming a tune as she stocked the cabinets that held the bread, and taking out the older ones.

It's not that they were moldy, in fact, the oldest bread in the palace was only three days old. But by order of the king, they had to restock every single day on many things. That included bread.

"Was that Kassian just now?" Sigyn heard a voice entering the room.

"Yes. He helped me carry some of the bread up here." She said, turning to find Astrid, the head baker, standing there.

Despite her young age, she was one of the best bakers that Asgard had ever seen. 

"That's quite nice of him. Usually, his father is too busy, or in too much pain to help the one in charge of bringing it."

"That's a shame."

In fact, this was the first time Sigyn had ever gone to pick up bread. She wasn't part of the cooks, so she usually didn't have anything to do with the kitchen except taking the dishes. But since Princess Stark had her own assistant, she had found that she didn't really have much to do. Each morning, when she came by, Wanda had already prepared you and there was not much left for her to do. You were an early bird, that much was for sure.

But she needed her mind occupied. Otherwise, she felt as if a dark void would consume her with despair.

"Your majesty?" Sigyn suddenly heard Astrid squeak, and she turned to find you and Wanda, your assistant frozen in the middle of the kitchen. As if you were two children being caught doing something they should be doing.

"Hello!" You chirped. "We were just- Does this door lead to town?" 

Both your maid and the baker looked at you in surprise. "Well, yes. But, your majesty-!"

"Ah! Wonderful. Then shall we go on Wanda?" You pulled on her arm trying to coerce her to keep moving. 

"A-Ah. Yes! Let us go." She said and you both scurried off through the door and down the passage.

Astrid turned to Sigyn, concern obvious on her face. "What are we to do?"

Sigyn furrowed her brow. She had to admit that even though you had been kind to her, she didn't have a certain resentment towards you. After all, you were the one that was going to marry her beloved. Even if you had no say in the matter.

It should have been her, not you.

"I do not know. But it would serve them right if they get in trouble. They should not go out unaccompanied."

Astrid seemed to descent into panic as the seconds ticked by. "But we saw them leave! If something happens to them, don't you think the king could hold us responsible for not saying anything or accompanying them!?"

Sigyn drew in a deep breath. Despite her personal biases she had to admit that getting in trouble with the king was probably not the best idea.

"I shall follow them. I will offer them to act as a guide. If we are not back by sundown, call for an audience with Prince Loki. He will act right away."

Astrid nodded, and then she proceeded to head out the small door to keep an eye on your little escapade.

You and Wanda were "sneaking" past the guards. In all honestly, you were just stumbling around in a fit of giggles. But you were having fun, so you didn't mind that your cover might be blown.

"Your majesty?" Speaking of.

You turned to find a stern-looking Sigyn standing behind you. "Oh, hello! How are you doing?" You smiled, a bead of sweat rolling down your neck.

 "Your majesty, I'm sorry to say this but you two shouldn't be here alone." She completely ignored your question.

"You do not have to worry, my dear. We'll be fine."

"I must disagree. You two are strangers in the land and know very little of the streets and people of Asgard." She tried to interject. "Besides, I could get in trouble with the king."

"He doesn't have to know." You smiled at her, mischievously.

"But he will. And if something happens to you and he finds that I let you go out unaccompanied, I will be in deep trouble with him and the prince." She stepped closer to you two.

You turned to look at Wanda who gave you a look, as if to say, listen to her.

"If you must insist, then we'll be happy if you acted as our guide." You chirped.

The blonde seemed to want to sigh, she had a look on her face as if she had to keep it together. Her expression changed as soon as it was there and she plastered on a pleasant smile.

"Of course." She held up some dark fabric towards you. "But you must wear these."

"Cloaks?" Wanda asked as she took the items.

"To better conceal your identity. We would not want bandits to be hot on our trail, would we?" She asked, seemingly with a reasonable expression, but you could feel how little patience she had just judging by her posture. She didn't want to be here.

You just smiled kindly at her and wrapped the cloak around your shoulders. "Of course not. Thank you very much, Sigyn."

"Oh, how precious!" Wanda was inspecting the jewelry that a vendor was offering to her. 

The bustling market was alive in its own way. Vendors yelled for the attention of the passing costumers. People went to and fro about their daily lives. The smell of spices and fish was seeping through the air. Corridors that led to other parts of town were decorated by hanging clothing. Kids rushed through the streets, chasing each other at play. 

It was absolutely mesmerizing.

"Thank you so much, my dear, for accompanying us." You spoke to Sygin who stood by your side as you inspected the textiles that the lady was trying to sell to you. They were very pretty, maybe you could make something to keep yourself occupied in the upcoming weeks.

"No need, your majesty. It is my duty." She responded, dryly.

"Ah. Your duty." That was a word that had been thrown around a lot lately, wasn't it? "I understand how I must seem."

She turned to look at you with a puzzled expression. "Pardon me?"

You paid for a couple of yards of fabric and the lady placed it on a bag for you, which proceeded to rest under your arm. Then you began to wander again, a confused Sigyn still following you close.

"How I and my companion must look like in your eyes, of course." You began. "A pair of strangers drawing entertainment from the peasantry."

"I-I don't-"

"It's alright. I've heard it all before," You winked at her and flexed your arm. "I'm a tough girl."

That seemed to relax her since a confused breathy laugh left her lips.

"Wanda and I used to do this all the time back home. Asgard and Midgard are not quite that different in that regard." Your eyes wandered throughout the bustling area. It filled you with homesickness, while at the same time, it felt eerily similar.

"You must miss your home." Sigyn offered timidly.

"Very much. Being with the people was something I always loved to do. It is where I belong. Not among the royalty, and the fancy parties, and dances." 

Sigyn saw something in your eyes, something fiery as you uttered your next words.

"My place has always been with my people. On the battlefield and in the streets is where I feel most at home."

"On the battlefield?" 

She couldn't place you on a battlefield. She just couldn't. You, with a gentle smile and patient retorts? With a fancy dress and gliding through the dancing hall? In bed curled up with a book or in the market with fabric under your arm? She just couldn't.

But your gaze told her it was true. There had been a hidden fire in your eyes, behind your politeness, that she immediately saw through. Because she had learned to see it on someone else.

Loki...

"You don't know, do you?"

Sigyn shook her head. The war between Midgard and Jotunheim wasn't a wide known conflict. Everyone knew that Asgard and Jotunheim weren't exactly friends, but Midgard never was something considered in the equation when discussing the subject.

You pointed to a nearby bench where both of you could sit down and Wanda would be able to see you and sat together.

"Ever since my grandfather was a child, the war against the Jotuns has been in motion. That is four different generations. Maybe five. That have been submitted to an ongoing conflict." You began. "The battles haven't been many, but the ones that have occurred have been terribly gruesome."

Sigyn remained silent, it wasn't every day that a princess got to tell you her firsthand experiences.

"I, myself, have been able to be on the strategy meetings and helped keep trespassers off the city limits. Even if that meant getting my hands dirty." You continued. "I remember the first time I came face to face with the enemy. I was probably around... fifteen years old..."

The material of your cloak brushed against your hands, the snow and wind blowing past you as you ran across the mostly empty streets of the desolate town.

You sneaked past the ten where your dad was with his counsel, Steve following you close by. He kept guard beside you as you whispered into the ear of the man in front of the tent that was right next to your dad's. He looked at you with suspicion, but you were the princess so he allowed you passage.

"Come on!" You pulled Steve behind you. 

"Are you sure we should be doing this?" He asked, worry in his expression.

"Of course! It'll show my father how serious I am about all this stuff!" You beamed at him as you turned to grab one of the crates full of fresh food.

You grunted and struggled as you tried to lift it. "H-Hhgk!"

Steve chuckled behind you. "Need help?" He asked kindly, but with smugness in his voice.

You pouted in his general direction. "No! I'm fine!"

He grabbed one of the handles of the crates and with little effort he lifted it. You directed him a pointed look but grabbed the other handle with both your hands. 

"Better?"

"Oh, hush." You teasingly glared at him.

Walking backward, you exited the tent. Crate separating the two of you. Those distributing the crates of supplies seemed apprehensive of letting the princess do heavy-duty, but after insisting they had no choice but to comply.

They pointed towards a rundown house and said you could take the crate to that family. After wobbling all the way over there, you knocked on the door.

A lady in raggedy clothes and with a child on her arms and another one standing by her side opened the door.

"Who are you?" She asked, apprehensive.

"This a delivery from the palace, ma'am. Some supplies for you and your family. We know the northern families have been going through a lot, so we brought this for all of you!" You beamed at her.

She looked at the crate and back at you in disbelief. "W-Wait... Are you...?"

"I am like you." You cut her off. When people made it about you being a princess annoyed you. "And since I can help I wanted to bring this to your family!"

She seemed on the verge of tears. "T-Thank you... Your majesty, thank you..."

"It is our pleasure." A voice behind you spoke up. You tensed up at the sound of it.

The woman took the crate inside with Steve's help, and then you felt a tug on your arm. Just as you suspected, you found your father when you spun around.

"What are you doing out here on your own, young lady?"

"I'm not alone. Steve is here." You tried to excuse yourself.

"Sorry, that doesn't work with me. Missy, in case you haven't noticed we're in the middle of a war zone. You shouldn't be outside without supervision." He spoke with controlled frustration.

"We're not in any danger, I swear!" You tried to convince him. "I just wanted to help..."

He kneeled down to your level. "I know kitten. But you can't go away without me knowing." Steve exited the house and you heard him say goodbye to the lady behind you. "If anything were to happen to you, or Pete I-"

He didn't have time to finish, around you the horrors of war suddenly displayed.

A surprise attack...

...

You stayed silent. The words were in the tip of your tongue but for some reason, they seemed to have gotten stuck there. They wouldn't come out. 

But then again.

Who likes talking about the horrors of war?

You took in a deep breath. "I never saw that woman again. The soldier in front of the tent of supplies died too."

Sigyn seemed shocked. Like a dam of emotions had opened up. "Y-Your majesty... I-I-"

"You don't have to say anything. It was a long time ago." You reassured her. "And besides, if anything it helped me realize what was at stake. Who our enemy was. Who I was protecting."

You pulled down the hood of your cape and showed her a scar at the nape of your neck. It was ugly and you knew it, but you wanted her to see it. "This is a reminder of that day. Helps me keep my eyes on the prize."

Sigyn had seen it, but you usually kept it concealed with makeup. 

"Why are you telling me all of this?"

Pulling your hood back up again you smiled. "I rather have you as an ally more so than an enemy. And for that I want you to know my intentions. I know that the lower classes tend to mistrust royalty. And you correct in doing so. Many in power are greedy and could care less for the people. But I want to help, and if you help me I'll be able to do so."

She looked at you with skepticism. "What do you want?"

A smirk was painted across your face, clever girl for not trusting in your every word. "I was told by someone that the wolves tend to feed each other with gossip. And I would be fully interested in finding out what's being said behind closed doors."

A second passed, then another. An informant. But could she...

"And what would I gain?"

"What would you like?"

Loki. Was her first thought, but she couldn't really say that now, could she?

"Could I come back to you on that?"

"Of course." You agreed, "After all, we ladies need to help each other, right?" You took her hands in companionship.

Sigyn laughed, it felt like you two were conspiring or something of the sort.

You really weren't what she was expecting, were you?

-

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[allonsy-yesiwill]

Tis The Season: The Unspoken Truth

WC: 1400 ish 

Pairing:  Dean x Y/N 

Warnings: a little bit of angst (read is an orphan but it didn’t happen till she was an adult and hit of crap parents) torwards the end but mostly just fluffy goodness

A/N: I tend to treat the English language like a garbage bin, in public I pronounce gym phonetically cause it makes people mad, and me smile. So please if you are an English teacher just pass on all of this... cause my tenses are timey whimy to say the least. That being said if you want to Beta, let me know I could use all the help I can get... hmmm, I guess that’s just a general statement about my life really..lol.  

The morning always came too early for, Y/N with Dean getting up around 5:30 to get ready for work. Y/N usually got home around midnight, an hour after the bar closed for the night. On Friday and Saturday Dean usually supported the bar so that he could spend some time with her. The staff even joked that he was their first unpaid employee, helping Y/N stock the bar or take out the trash when needed. For Y/N birthday this year they even made them the official cutest couple on staff, the picture of them still sits on the outside bar. 

“Good morning beautiful,” Dean kissed Y/N while she lay in bed. “I am really nervous about all of this and I know you already know this but.” 

Y/N instruped, “Oh babe I know you don’t want to fly there. It’s okay I got it. I am off all day, I am going to get out of bed now and I will make sure everything is packed and ready. It’s okay Dean, I will be with you the whole way alright.” Y/N rubbed his cheek with her thumb hoping to help him calm down. They have been talking about this trip for two week because Dean was terrified of flying. He originally wanted to work form home that day so he could help Y/N get everything ready however they both decided that working would be a welcome distraction form the events later in the day. 

“Thank you,” Dean said, leaning his forehead against hers. 

Y/N spent the day packing and planning making sure she had everything Dean needed for the flight including some legally purchased gummies, that she knew Dean would snack on before getting on the plane. She couldn’t help but chuckle getting everything ready, him talking about flying was the first time she had ever seen Dean scared. It was painfully obvious to her, no matter how much he tried to hide it. 

As the afternoon rolled on Y/N hopped in the shower wanting to be as clean as possible before flying, knowing that the she was going to be squished between Dean and some random stranger for a few hours while they traveled to Kansas. She hadn’t flown in sometime but she new the drill, dressing in black leggings, a black tank top, heavy knit christmas and her favorite ugg boots. She was all set the luggage was by the door, Dean jeans along with his red and black flannel were waiting for him upstairs so he could shower and get dressed before they left no later than 5:30.

The plan went accordingly and know they found themself waiting at the gate with 90 mins to kill before the plane left. 

“Are these form me or you,” Dean winked at Y/N pulling out the gummies. 

“Well they are for both of us but you only get one and then you can eat the rest of these,” Y/N said pulling out a bag of unopened gummies she purchased inside the airport. 

“Oh well I see, so should I take it now or wait till I am on the plane?  How have I never thought about doing this, I am only in my 40′s and doing something that’s completely legal here,” Dean laughed.

“Ha, well your family seems a little straight-laced so it’s fine, but yes take it now so that way you will be relaxed for take off.” 

They continue chatting about the upcoming events till they hear the boarding call for first class and Dean stands up saying, “Merry Christmas baby, that’s us.” 

“Dean we talked about this, it was way too much money and you’re going to sleep the whole way.” 

“I know, and I am a horrible listener,” Dean chuckled while helping her up.

This the first time Y/N had ever sat in first class there was so much room and it was just the two of them. While everyone boarded the plane they got comfy together waiting for take off. Dean was already starting to feel the gummy, Y/N could tell as he was starting to drift in and out of sleep. 

“Alright babe, I am going to need you to eat and drink everything so that we get our money's worth,” He laughed.

“Dean, it’s a 3 hours flight you will have to carry me off the plane if I drink whiskey the whole time.” 

“Hmm you’re right maybe champagne for the princess and food get food too. Maybe stash form cookies for when I wake up,” Dean let out with his eyes closed and a smile on his face. 

“Okay babe,” she said before kissing him on his cheek. 

The flight was very uneventful, Y/N spent some time talking with some of the stewarts. In return they made sure to give her more than a few unopened bottles of champagne while keeping her glass full. They also provided a few packages of cookies for Dean after she shared her story of her day and how nervous he was for this trip.  

When the plane landed Y/N softly woke up a sleepy Dean with the promise of cookies. When they picked up their luggage Dean thought about something he had never considered. 

“Fuck, what if I am still high. I don’t think I can drive. Could you drive, shit I don't’ want to do that. You don’t know where you are going. Son of bitch, why did I do that?”  Y/N couldn’t help but laugh. “Babe, calm down. I spoke with the shop owner, the gummy only lasted four hours maybe five max, you ate one 90 mins before our flight and the time it took for us to get off the plane and get our luggage we are way over the 5 hours mark. PS you’re so adorable when you worry, I don’t want it to be a consistent thing but it’s pretty cute.”  “Shut up, you’re adorable,” Dean said with a smile. 

Before they left the airport Dean let out a big sigh and looked at Y/N. “Okay so there is one other thing that I need to tell you, before you meet my family. And I want you to know that I love you and that you’re here and this, this all falls on me. I know I should have told them that we are dating but I just haven’t yet.” 

“So who do they think is coming with you,” Y/N asked, concerned not because he hadn’t named the relationship, she just wanted to know what you were walking into. 

“Well I told them I was going to bring my best friend because she didn't have any family to be with for the Holiday’s and I didn’t want her to be alone,” Dean said, avoiding eye contact. 

“First did you tell them that both of my parents are dead, cause I don’t like the orphan word. Both of my parents died when I was a grown ass adult and they weren’t super great at their roles so you know I just don’t want to be someone rich family’s pity project.  Second, you know you could have told me this before we left. I get you were scared and I understand that your relationship, especially with your dad is complicated at best. I mean I could have stayed home and made all of this so much easier,” Y/N sighed 

“See I knew you would say that and it would have broken my heart to leave you alone for Christmas. And honestly I am being a little bit selfish, I need you to be there by me for this trip. I have tried to tell them that we are dating so many times. I think Sammy knows but hasn’t said anything. I just don’t, want to be a disappointment or for them to not love you as much as I do.” 

“Why would you be a disappointment, am I a disappointment?”

“Oh god no baby, never you’re my happiness, my everything. It’s just to them life is more about titles, not love and that scares me so much.” 

“Hey, you know I love you right. We can and will get through this together no matter how much of a hot mess hallmark movie this Christmas is going to be,” Y/N said with a smile, “ besides you are going to have the harder job here. Keeping Dean Jr in check.” They both laughed. 

“Well you aren’t wrong, you ass in those leggins. When I got home we almost missed the flight,” Dean laughed.  

Next Part 

You can entertain yourself over here with my other stories 

TAGS 

@akshi8278​

I hope the tags worked I stopped them for a min but when people ask I can’t say no.