#sister soulmates

[braveclementine]

Chapter 32

Warnings: None

Copyright: I do not own any Marvel characters or locations. However, I do own my OC: Elizabeth Y/L/N (created so you don't get Y/N and Y/S/N consistently mixed up. I do not condone any copying of this.

YOU WENT LOOKING FOR YOUR MOTHER as the dinner came to a close. The wedding cake would be up soon and then the garter and flower toss which you were sure would embarrass Elizabeth greatly.

Your mother was with your father, and you heard their shouting before you saw them. They had closed themselves off in their bedroom so that the guests did not hear they were arguing.

"The farm was Y/N's!" your mother shrieked. You could tell she had been crying. "You are taking everything away from her!"

"No, I am not." Your father said, trying to keep his calm. "Y/N does not want the farm, she does not like the farm. Both of our daughters will be happier this way. Y/N will not have to keep the farm and Elizabeth will."

"Y/N was going to sell the farm you idiot!" Your mother shouted.

"I know." Your father said calmly. "Another reason I gave the farm to Elizabeth. This farm has been in our family for eight generations. There was no way I was going to let this farm be sold. And Y/N no longer needs any money she could have gotten from this farm. She's married to a billionaire, or did you forget?"

"You also took away her chance to get married first." Your mother snarled. "Do you not understand how the first child is supposed to work?"

"Why should Elizabeth always be put second?" Your father snapped. "Why? What's the point?"

"It's the way this world works." Your mother said. "I was a first child and I was always put first, the way that Y/N should always have been put first!"

"And I was born third." Your father said coolly. "And I know exactly how Elizabeth feels. You would never understand. You would never understand how it is to be second, to be looked at last, to be observed last, chosen last. I refuse to let our daughter go through that as well. That's why I fought it when she was growing up. And I cannot believe you are doing this on her wedding night!"

"It shouldn't be her wedding night." your mother sniffed. "It should be Y/N's."

"Well her wedding will be coming up very soon." Your father sighed. "So I don't know why it matters."

"Poli-"

"If you talk about how Polite Society will look down on us one more time I'm going to blow a fuse." Your father snapped. "Polite society hasn't done a damn thing for us, how many times to do I have to tell you? Politicians look down on farmers, you know how many times they've tried to take this farm from our family? You think we're poor? That's because they keep taxing us every cent that we make to try and get us to sell our farm! There's your polite society."

"I knew you should have gone and worked in the factory when you had the chance." Your mother sighed.

"Why should I give in? Why?" Your father snapped. "This is my father's father's father's father's farm. Eight generations. The Government has no right to take it from us!"

"But Y/F/N," Your mother sounded desperate. "I've gotten an amazing contract from this company. They'll pay us thirty million for the land!"

"Thirty million?" Your father sounded incredulous. "Only thirty million for eighty acres of land? You've got to be kidding me. What company?"

"TYPHON." Your mother said and your heart leapt in your chest.

"Absolutely not." Your father snapped. "That is not a company we'll be taking money from. They kidnapped and tortured Elizabeth."

Your mother was silent for a moment and then said, "I know. I told them where to find her."

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

"Y/N, WHAT'S WRONG?" LOKI CAUGHT your arm as you rushed through the crowd. You felt sick and you had no idea who you were looking for. You had no idea if you wanted to tell Fury or not. And on Elizabeth's wedding night?

You bit your bottom lip, eyes darting around the crowd. "I- my mother. . . Come with me."

You dragged Loki far away from the party, deep into the woods. You were shivering as a cold wind started to blow and Loki took his dress jacket off to put it over your shoulders.

"Talk to me Y/N. I can't entirely read minds like Wanda." Loki said and looked back to the tent. "Should I go and get her?"

You shook your head. "No. I don't even know if I want to tell you. Not now. Not on Elizabeth's wedding night. I cannot ruin it. Please, you must ask me later. But I do want to tell you this much: it's about TYPHON."

"Are they here?" Loki asked, straightening up immediately, a dagger created from nothing in his hand.

"No." You shook your head, though you weren't sure if your mother was or not. Nor were you sure why TYPHON wanted to buy the farm. "I can't tell you all of it, because you'll freak and I can't have you freaking tonight. Not when you're supposed to be with Elizabeth. But for some reason, TYPHON wants to buy this farm. I'll tell Fury all the details when you go on honeymoon."

Loki hesitated and then dipped his head. "Fine. But I will want every detail when we get back."

You nodded. "I'll tell you. I promise."

Loki held his arm out. "Now, let's go back and enjoy the party."

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

STEVE HAD GONE TO GET SAM AND BUCKY drinks so the two of them were sitting by themselves at one of the tables. Sam had handed Bucky back the jacket and Bucky was being quiet. One hand was under the table and Sam knew that his hand was in his pocket.

"Why'd you keep it?" Sam finally asked and Bucky looked up at him. "The figurine that she made you. Why'd you keep it?"

Bucky sighed. "I like it."

"I know Steve didn't keep his." Sam responded.

Bucky hesitated and then said softly. "Actually, he did."

"What?" Sam was shocked.

Bucky's eyes flickered to where Steve was still getting drinks. "Look, Sam-"

"You want her." Sam demanded. "I know you do. I've seen the way you looked at her. Why are you ignoring her?"

Bucky shook his head. "Can we not talk about it?"

"Why?"

Bucky sighed, "Look, it's just about something that Steve thinks, okay? Now can we drop it?"

Sam didn't want to drop it at all, but he watched Bucky clammed up, putting both hands on the table as Steve came over, handing drinks to them.

"Thanks Stevie." Bucky said, giving him a strained smile which Steve missed as he turned to give Sam his drink.

"Thanks Steve." Sam said softly, taking a huge sip. He'd make Bucky crack. He just needed to get him away from Steve.

"Hey buddy, we're heading out." Tony said, coming over and clapping him on the shoulder.

"You're sober." Steve noticed and Tony grinned.

"Well, I need to be sober tonight." Tony said, "You know the bonding and all of that." His smile slipped off his face a little. "Actually, I've sworn off drinking. I refuse to let a repeat of the club happen."

Steve stiffened a little and Sam stood. He hugged Steve first, "I'll see you guys when I get back."

"Don't have to much fun without us." Steve said, hugging him back tightly.

"I'll try." Sam said, hugging Bucky next. He looked at Bucky as he hugged him and then kissed him roughly. "Love you Buck."

"I love you too." Bucky murmured, kissing his jawline. "Now go have some fun."

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

ELIZABETH WAS NERVOUS. SHE WAS wearing a light blue dress for the honeymoon. Tony would normally have booked a flight, but Stephen simply portaled them to the hotel in the Bahamas. She waited patiently as they checked in and she found that they were actually staying in a separate, rather expensive villa right by the ocean side.

"Come on sweetheart." Tony said as they filed out of the hotel, wrapping an arm around her waist.

She thought she was going to throw up.

These were all men who already had sexual experiences. And she knew absolutely nothing and had zero experience.

Tony and Stephen chatted easily with each other. She could sense that the two of them were happy and carefree. But she sensed something different from the other three. Loki was deep in a serious conversation with Hogun about something, which she couldn't hear. Sam looked lost in thought as well.

Her stomach turned again.

She yelped in surprise as Tony scooped her up in his arms to carry her over the threshold of the Villa. Once inside, the outdoors noises quieted a little and they all turned to her.

"How do you want to do this sweetheart?" Tony asked gently.

She blinked and then looked at Loki, "Is something wrong? You seem. . . distracted."

Loki winced a little and then after a slight hesitation admitted, "There might've been a new development with TYPHON."

"What?" Elizabeth and Sam asked.

Elizabeth was surprised. She'd though Sam was in deep thought over the same thing.

"When?" Tony asked, frowning.

"At the wedding." Loki shrugged. "Fury said he'd take care of it though, so we don't have to worry about it."

"Are you sure?" Elizabeth bit her bottom lip. "If there's danger-"

Loki shook his head. "There's no danger. It's more related to your actual farm than yourself. Or your family. Well, we've always said TYPHON had spreading branches. Y/N overheard your parents talking and your mother said TYPHON wanted to buy the farm. That's all. But it isn't necessarily because of you that they want the farm. They buy up properties everywhere. Y/N just wanted Fury to look into it to keep you safe."

"Oh." Elizabeth murmured, blushing, "Okay."

"So." Stephen asked softly. "How do you want us?"

Elizabeth blushed deeper, eyes flickering between everyone. "Can we all just. . . together and like, I don't know. . . see how it goes?"

"Sure." Hogun said softly, kissing her temple. "C'mon, leave your bags here."

Elizabeth blindly followed Hogun up the stairs, clutching her hand in his. She wasn't sure why she was so nervous, but she was shaking so hard that her teeth were chattering.

Or maybe she was just cold.

Oh wait- she couldn't get cold.

"Relax." Hogun whispered in her ear, which did nothing to help her relax as it sent goosebumps down her spine.

Elizabeth closed her eyes as the others moved around her. She relaxed and then she made the first move.

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

ELIZABETH WAS STILL WEARING HER  wedding dress as she approached you. The sky was either a blinding white or a deep red, it didn't seem to be able to make up its mind.

The wedding dress was slightly different from what she'd actually worn. It was still white, but the design in the front was different. Instead of the two curves meeting in the middle, there were birds stitched into the silk fabric. And it wasn't as long, seeming to be ripped along the bottom, the edges black with dirt.

"Hello big sister." Her voice was pleasant and the sun shone through the clearing. Her brown hair was down, swirling around her in a way that should have been messy, but instead was flattering. She looked like either a goddess descended from the Heavens, or a devil risen from Hell.

"Elizabeth." You whispered back and went to step backwards, before you found that you were standing on the edge of the cliff. The Cliff.

"Did you come here to think?" Elizabeth asked softly. "I come here to think. I like to think about that time period, you see. I was just a little girl Y/N and you were so jealous."

"It was an accident." You whispered. "I never meant-"

"Lies." Elizabeth hissed, her eyes darkening into black tunnels. "Your mind was fueled with your mother's poisonous words. A mother that clearly wants me dead too. You're the little prize, just a trophy Y/N. A trophy for mother. Glorious Y/N, precious Y/N, perfect Y/N, beautiful Y/N. Ensnares all the soulmates so that they abandon the little stupid ugly sister. Well, imagine if you didn't exist."

"I never meant for them to not accept you." You whispered. "It's not like I told them to be cruel to you."

"But you stayed with them." Elizabeth pointed out, reverting back to an angelic phase.

"Of course I stayed with them!" You replied hotly. "They're mine."

You froze on your words. Steve and Bucky were not yours. Not really. They were supposed to be both yours and Elizabeth.

Elizabeth laughed and it sounded like a beautiful bird song. "You're completely right. They're yours. All yours Y/N."

And then she pushed you off the cliff. You screamed, your body twisting over so that you could see the crumpled, dead figures of Steve and Bucky at the bottom of the cliff.

"Y/N!"

Steve's voice jolted you straight out of bed and Bucky caught you with his hands. Both of them looked worried and you sunk into Bucky.

"It's okay doll." Bucky murmured, hugging you to him.

"Y/N," Steve's voice was soft, but also firm. "Look at me."

You looked at him and saw the serious caring face he was wearing. "It was just a nightmare." You croaked out.

"I know." Steve murmured, pulling you into his arms as well. "But I need you to look at me and tell me the truth."

"Okay?" You questioned, your heartbeat speeding up again. Had something happened?

"Are you scared of your sister?" Steve asked seriously.

You blinked, heart rate slowing down with the confusion you were feeling now. "Elizabeth? No, I'm not scared of her?"

"Y/N, you were shouting for her to stop in your sleep." Steve said gently. "You don't have to protect her just because she's your sister. If you're scared of her, if she's hurt you or if you're scared of her hurting you, we can take care of it."

You were flabbergasted and also guilty. The nightmares weren't from Elizabeth ever hurting you. They were a manifestation of your fears about something you'd done to her and were afraid of revenge for so long. But Elizabeth being Elizabeth had simply forgiven you with zero repercussions.

"She's never hurt me in my entire life." You explained.

"Clint said these dreams have been going on for a while though." Steve said with a frown. "Please Y/N, don't lie to me."

"I'm not!" You protested, shrugging out of his arms so that you could look at him better. "I would swear on a stack of Bibles Steve, she's never hurt me. I mean, besides our sword fights we had when we were kids, but that's it."

Steve looked uncertain, but he was clearly going to drop the conversation. He sighed and then nodded, "Alright."

You wished you could explain everything, but you didn't want them to look at you differently. It had happened when you were ten years old, there was no reason to bring it up now.

Or ever.

⬅️➡️

[natalievoncatte]

Lena didn’t mean to overhear. She was at the bar to grab a drink, and was taking it when she noticed Kara and Alex conspiring intently together. It was a private moment, a sister moment, so she shouldn’t have listened, and yet she did anyway.

“I’m sorry, Alex. I don’t want to ruin your wedding.”

“You’re not, kiddo. This isn’t the wedding, this is just a little night out. I’ll be happy if we get through the ceremony without a bridge collapse or an alien invasion or whatever.”

Everyone was having a good time. Kelly was with James, who’d come in from out of town for the ceremony tomorrow. Nia leaned back to Brainy as she made a giggling attempt to hit the dart board. The other guests were milling about, mingling and chatting and getting tipsy.

Lena felt more than a little maudlin, because Kara was hanging with Alex and that left Lena alone in the crowd.

“I’m so happy for you,” Kara was saying, “I just hope I get it myself some day.”

“You’ll find someone, Kara. You’re a beautiful, amazing person- not Supergirl, you.”

Lena pretended not to notice them, nursing her scotch. (A double, neat)

“That’s just it,” Kara choked out. “There is someone, Alex. There already is. She just won’t ever want me like I want her.”

Lena looked up in absolute shock and at the absolutely, perfectly wrong time. Alex’s eyes met hers, her expression as shocked as Lena’s was.

Rushing away from the bar, Lena headed for the pinball machines, not looking back. She downed the rest of her scotch in a coal-hot rush and it only added to the churning in her belly. She swallowed hard and her throat was instantly dry, and she cursed the afterburn of the liquor.

“You heard her.”

Lena wheeled. Alex was standing behind her, a beer in either hand. She handed one to Lena.

“You know what they say about liquor after beer,” said Lena.

“Lena, we both have advanced degrees and we both know that’s bullshit.”

That was good, because Lena downed half the brew in one long pull.

“Jesus,” said Alex. “I was trying to get you to slow down.”

“Yeah, well,” said Lena. “I’m Irish.”

Alex snorted. “You’re deflecting. You heard what she said.”

“Maybe.”

Alex rolled her eyes. “I’ve been through five fucking years of this and I’ve had enough, Lena.”

“Enough of what?”

“Kara’s wrong about your feelings.”

Lena blinked, took another pull. “How do you know she means me?”

Alex looked at her flatly.

“How do I know it’s you? Because she always rescues you. She’s always defended you. She gave you chance after chance and never gave up even when you were at your worst. Kara would die for you. A fifth dimensional imp offered to grant her wish and she didn’t wish for her planet or her parents or to have our dad back. She wished for you. For a second chance.”

“Fifth dimensional what?”

“She reversed time for you, Lena.”

Lena gaped at her.

“What do you mean? She did what?”

“She made me swear never to tell. There was a time when she was too slow, when she was already in the middle of a disaster when you got shot. She’s the only one who remembers that timeline because she fixed it. She flew at superluminal speed and went backwards in time so she could be in two places at once. Apparently a Kryptonian can do that, but she swears it can only be done the one time.”

Lena’s beer was sloshing in the bottle from the shaking of her hands.

“For God’s sake, Lena. I know you’re in love with her. You two had a bad breakup without even dating first. You spent a billion dollars to hang out with her at work. You filled her office with flowers. You let her in, you let her bring you into our family, and you forgave her for doing something really fucked up and you forgave me for pushing her to do it.”

Alex clapped a hand on her shoulder.

“Lena, sack up and go get your girl. She’s at the bar crying into a Shirley Temple because I cut her off. She’s waiting for you.”

Lena stared at her.

“Alex, I don’t know what to say.”

“You don’t need to say anything. Go. Get. Her.”

Lena looked at her beer, downed the last of it, and gave Alex a curt nod, marching past her.

Kara was sitting at the bar. She was dressed in skinny jeans and a loose N’Sync t-shirt and leather sandals. She was among friends here and had removed her glasses, her hair in a sloppy ponytail. She looked like she’d rather sulk at home than party.

Lena hopped on the stool next to her.

“Hey.”

“Hi, Lee. Having fun?”

“Not really,” said Lena. She waved the bartender away as he approached to offer her another drink. “I’m kind of down honestly.”

“Weddings always depress me,” said Lena. “Watching other people get all the happiness I’ll never have, basking in their joy for a while. It’s like sitting by the fire in someone else’s house, but eventually you have to go home to your own and it’s empty.”

Kara’s eyes glittered with tears. “Yeah. It does feel like that, doesn’t it?”

Lena rested her hand on Kara’s wrist.

“May I have this dance?”

Kara looked up sharply.

“This isn’t really a dancing kind of place.”

Lena snorted. “I’m a billionaire. I can do what I want.”

She slipped off her stool and offered Kara a hand.

Kelly and Alex had reunited. They were talking animatedly, and Alex pointed at Lena. Suddenly she rushed over to the jukebox as Lena took Kara’s hand and led her to an open space.

The music changes to Wonderful Tonight. Eric Clapton.

Lena was going to kill Alex.

“Huh,” said Kara.

It seemed natural that Kara would lead, being taller and more graceful by far, but Lena put a hand on her hip and rested the other on her shoulder, wondering if Kara could feel her pounding pulse through her palms.

It started with them like middle schoolers, half a foot awkwardly apart, movements jerky, but it quickly changed. Lena didn’t know who bridged that gap first but soon they were pressed body to body, Kara tilted forward to rest her forehead against Lena’s.

Lena went from chastely pressing a guiding hand to Kara’s flank to an arm looped lazily around her hips, hand resting gently against her ass. Her other hand moved from Kara’s shoulder to her neck, thumb grazing Kara’s jawline.

Kara, hesitantly, reciprocated, less dancing with Lena and more swaying with her in a meandering hug. They were so close that Lena’s head swam.

“Do you remember when you first got back from the Phantom Zone?”

“I don’t think I’ll ever forget,” said Kara. “When I came back and I saw you standing there, I could barely take it. You looked like an angel.”

Lena nodded gently, nudging closer to Kara until she could feel the presence of the other woman’s lips without touching.

“You looked like you wanted to kiss me.”

Kara’s entire body went briefly rigid, then relaxed.

“You could have,” Lena whispered. “You could have and I’d have kissed you back. I swear I can think of a dozen times when you were about to kiss me and I wanted it right then, I wanted it so bad.”

Kara choked back a small sob. “I remember the first time I thought about it. It was when Morgan Edge was framing you and you were so upset, you were crying. You were so sad and beautiful and soft and I wanted to kiss you right then. I wanted to make you feel better any way I could.”

“That would have been a great time.”

Kara laughed. “That would have been a good time. Maybe the best time.”

“The second best time is now.”

Lena looked up. They were holding each other now and Lena knew there were eyes on them, that their friends were watching.

Kara didn’t seem to notice or care. There was a fresh sparkle in her eyes, wide and nervous, her lips trembling in a half smile. She didn’t seem to know what to make of what Lena said, perhaps questioning if she’d heard right.

Poor Kara, her Kara, would find any excuse to steal the happiness from her own hands, to martyr herself, to seek penance for a crime that she never committed. Lena knew her guilt, felt in sing in her own soul like a kind of magnetic resonance.

Lena Luthor did not believe in silly things like soulmates or fate or destined lovers.

But she believed in Kara Danvers, and Kara Danvers kissed her. Lena barely registered it at first, so gentle was the brushing of Kara’s soft lips against her own. She gave Kara no chance to retreat into embarrassment or confusion, kissing her back so intensely that there could be no mistaking the intent. When she did, it was like seeing the stars for the first time, and a pleasant warmth pooled low in the cradle of her hips.

Kissing Kara felt like coming home.

They were staring at each other. Lena drank the sight of Kara staring at her, shocked expression full of an elation, a pure excited joy that magnified her stunning beauty a thousandfold until Lena thought she might die of pure love for this woman that she held in her arms. She went in for another kiss and this time, neither hesitated.

Alex’s voice cut through it all. “Hey, you two. Get a room.”

She was by the jukebox, grinning ear to ear despite Kelly’s scowl. Before either of them could react, Alex dropped a coin in the jukebox and played… the fucking Macarena.

“I don’t know whether to murder her or send her a gift basket,” Lena snapped.

Kara curled a finger around Lena’s chin and their eyes locked.

“Maybe we should get a room,” Kara whispered.

Lena swallowed hard.

“What are we waiting for?”

Kara took her hand, and stuck out her tongue at her sister as they left the bar.

[mischievous-thunder]

Logan doesn't have to say anything to Laura. She's intelligent enough to realise that she's going to have two dads to love and protect her from now on. The smile on her face says everything about how she feels about her new family.

[dclovesdanny]

Anger Management

2/2

The Justice League was having a diplomatic mission with the Ghost King, which was going fairly well, until he saw Red Hood’s soulmate fact.

Everyone tensed when he grabbed Red Hood’s arm, before looking him up and down.

“Well, you are her type.” Is all he says before fishing out a whistle from his bag. It makes a horrible shrieking noise, and a portal rips open. In it, the Justice League can see the Ghost Kin’s court meeting, and a Red Haired Lady approaches. She looks more human than anyone else there, but all the magic users can tell she is part of the realms.

“Jazz,” The king gestures to Red Hood, whose arm is out. The words ‘I was possessed by my first boyfriend’s ex.’ Stand out starkly on his skin.

“I found your soulmate.”

[crimsonlovebartylus]

halloweekend.

regulus is little red riding hood and barty is the wolf, and yes regulus is walking him around with a chain.

[atalienart]

The royals!

[your-mommy-ems]

and if i told you we're platonic soulmates in every life time, what then?

[wardenparker]

In the Still of the Night, Epilogue

Zach Wellison x female reader Co-written with @absurdthirst

Grown up and looking to the future, Zach Wellison and bunkmate Shane Morrissey are working for a new cruise line that offers its guests a vintage Vegas experience on the Mediterranean. The romantic atmosphere is rubbing off on many of the crew members, and Zach finds himself to be no exception when he meets the beautiful lead singer of Shane's band.

But being wrapped in the seductive arms of an atmospheric cruise is a far cry from real life. How will their relationship fare on dry land? They can't know unless they try.

Rating: M for Mature but this blog is always 18+ Word Count: 7k Warnings: *Blanket warnings for this story include: Cursing, alcohol, food, cooking, eating, discussion of clothing/costumes. Mentions of prison time served, mentions of past homelessness.* Fluff, sweetness, pregnancy (not reader). Summary: On the tenth anniversary of the opening of your night club, life is still an adventure for you, Zach, and all your chosen family. Notes: What an absolute joy these babies have been to spend time with! Zach doesn't get enough love and it was a delight to spend time with him on this little journey. Thank you to the mighty, faithful few who read along the whole way. We see you and we appreciate you every single week. 🧡

Ch 1 ~ Ch 2 ~ Ch 3 ~ Ch 4 ~ Ch 5 ~ Ch 6 ~ Ch 7 ~ Ch 8 ~ Ch 9 ~ Ch 10

“Has anybody seen my husband?”

The number of times that sentence has been shouted out in this building is probably too high to count, but surprisingly it isn’t you asking it today.

Zach is back in his kitchen, exactly where you left him two minutes ago to hightail it up to your dressing room. It’s not even Diana, who has taken the night off from the hospital to be here for the party.

It’s River that is calling out in frustration to find the whereabouts of her perpetually-hard-working soulmate, and you just laugh to yourself knowing he’s probably halfway inside an electrical closet or something right now.

“Yeah!” Keo snorts and points down the hallway towards the stairs that leads up to the offices and the apartment that you had built out of the old prop rooms for visiting performers. A lot of guest performers loved not having to incur hotel expenses or crash on couches when they were invited to stay. Plus, it had been used several times when daycare issues had arisen for staff, the family oriented atmosphere extending to bringing kids to work when necessary. “He’s fixing something with a sink?”

“Of course he is.” She throws up her hands and rolls her eyes with a dramatic sigh. “God forbid we hire a plumber. Or electrician. Or a carpenter. Nope it’s two hands and a tool box every time.”

“Isn’t that like- what he does?” Shane asks, grinning when she cuts her eyes over at him dangerously. “I don’t see a lot of cattle ranches in Brooklyn.”

"You never know." You chime in, matching your bandmate's grin. Teasing River is just a tiny bit too easy when it comes to her soulmate. "The hipsters are still everywhere. One of them might have turned their industrial walk up into an urban ranch."

“Don’t say that.” She huffs. “He’ll be there fixing the damn lighting!” Despite her currently attitude, she’s incredibly proud of him.

"Brighter for simulated daylight, or dimmer to be soothing for better tasting beef?" You tease, nearly cackling with laughter.

Her answer is a middle finger up in the air and a grin when you both stick your tongues out at her as she turns towards the stairs. “See if I save you a plate for when you get off stage!” She throws over her shoulder playfully, knowing full well tonight isn’t even the traditional dinner being served.

"Love you, baby!" You call after her, but lean against Shane's side to let your laughter subside until you sigh the rest away. "I tried to warn her before they went out, but did she listen? Nooo, she had to have her cowboy." It's all in good fun, of course. River and Darrel are head over heels for each other and have been since they met. If she occasionally gets exasperated with his chipper can do attitude? It's never that serious.

River had been delighted to get the call from you, a little relieved and very surprised that you had plans for the future that were ones that she could be involved with. You had persuaded her to join you, becoming the front of house management. Taking care of customers and handling reservations with the same chipper attitude that had made her successful during her cruise contracts. Coming to New York had been the best thing for her, and meeting the man who is currently head first under a sink right now is one of the reasons.

"Gimme just one second, darlin'." Darrel drawls when she finds him half under the staff bathroom sink. He recognizes her distinctive stride in the click of her heels on the tile. "Am I in trouble or is there another fire to put out?"

“That’s a loaded question.” She snorts, a smirk on her face. “What did you do that you should be in trouble for?” She asks, crossing her arms over her chest.

A warm, soft chuckle sounds from under the sink, and Darrel folds himself slightly to be able to peek out from underneath to shoot her a grin. "Thought maybe you'd seen your office," he admits.

“What’s wrong with my office?” She demands, even as she feels herself melting at the sight of his grin. Damn him for being so irresistible.

"Nothing at all, darlin'." He promises her, since he wouldn't consider it wrong at all. The small room is filled top-to-bottom with her favourite flower to commemorate the night they met, and that is very right in his book. Ten years ago on this very day he'd come up to New York to be a part of the opening night of this club, and found his soulmate there amongst so many new friends.

“Oh.” She melts slightly at his tone, biting her lip and looking behind him. “Are you almost finished?” She asks. “I need to talk to you.”

"Yeah honey, just give me a few more minutes." He's tinkering, but he's good at tinkering and always has been. "What time is it? Opening time's coming up fast."

“You’ve got about twenty minutes.” She promises, smiling as she imagines his reaction to her news.

“Yes ma’am.” He manages another peaking grin for his wife before he disappears under the sink again. “Should be done here in five or maybe ten minutes. That’ll give me time to change.”

“Okay. I’ll meet you in my office?” Now that he’s said something, she’s gonna worry until she lays eyes on the office space. She had been so excited to talk to him that she hadn’t bothered stopping by it.

"Absolutely, darlin'." He calls back, making sure he's loud enough to be heard as he works. "I'll be as fast as I can."

“I love you.” She smiles as she turns and walks back towards the stairs so she can go to her office. Happy nerves twisting in her stomach.

Halfway back down the hall, you nearly run straight into River as you hustle back through the administrative area of the club. "Did you find him?"

“Tinkering.” She rolled her eyes but there is a soft smile on her lips. “God love him.”

"Not God," you hum, nudging her and smiling in turn. "But you. And it's still so fucking cute."

“Like you and Zach still aren’t over the honeymoon phase.” She huffs, wrapping her arm around your waist. “Two kids later.”

"Ugh I'm trying so hard not to think about them," you admit with a laugh. The two of you start down the hallway at a stroll with your arms around each other and sappy grins on your faces. "I thought I was going to be okay leaving the kids with the babysitter tonight but the longest we've been away from the baby so far is just a dinner date."

“Because you are an amazing mother.” She praises easily. “I can only hope I’m half as good.”

"When it happens, you're going to be amazing." There is not a single doubt in your mind about that. River and Darrel are fantastic pair and have a great relationship with their nieces and nephews. They've been trying to get pregnant for a while now but haven't been lucky, so your fingers are perpetually crossed for them.

Her smile lights up her face and she pulls you in for a quick hug. “Thank you.” She whispers, both for the kind words and for bringing her into the same sphere as her soulmate. Some might find it odd that you had slept with her soulmate, but she had just marveled at how the universe works.

"We're gonna have a hell of a party tonight." At the door of Zach's office, you blow her a kiss and wave as she trots off to head to her own. "Hey handsome." Your own husband has been at work for hours, but it's a relief to see him sitting down for just a few minutes with a glass of cold water before diving right back in to the chaos of the night.

“Hey.” He lights up when he sees you, setting down the water and reaching for your waist to pull you onto his lap. “How are you doing?” He asks softly, aware that you might be emotional about leaving the kids at home.

"Mom pains," you laugh, knowing what he's asking. "I'm excited for tonight but I miss our babies."

“I know.” He chuckles. “So when you want to sneak off to call the babysitter, you just do it.” He winks at you and caresses your hip. “Maybe we can sneak home early.”

"She promised to text me some videos while the kids are awake," you admit. There's no shame in that for you at all. "I was going to watch them between sets."

“Yeah?” He shoots you a grin. “Better than I honestly expected.”

"I'm trying to behave myself." When your first born was little you had been a little...hovering. Now that you have two, you're trying to remember to step back a little and breathe.

“Baby, I completely understand.” He flashes you a guilty look. “I might have installed those baby cameras we were talking about this morning while you were asleep.”

"You did?" Immediately perking up in his lap, you look like a cat that has just been offered a whole saucer of cream.

“I did.” He chuckles at your excitement and pulls his phone out of his front pocket. “It’s already logged in.”

"It's not about wanting to check on Carola, she's great." You've been lucky enough to have the same babysitter for the last four years, ever since your son was born. She's just finished her undergrad work at Columbia and is starting grad school and is the very best babysitter you could ever ask for. "It's about seeing my little angels."

“Sweetheart, you don’t have to explain anything to me.” He promises, leaning in and pressing his lips to your cheek. “I feel the same way. Now I can look in when I miss them.”

"So..." The grin you flash him is teasing. "That would be all the time?"

“You know it.” He laughs but you understand. “I should just have a tv put up in the kitchen.”

“It might save time.” Cuddling into his lap, you watch the little monitor on his cell phone come to life and feel your heart thud happily when the image you’re greeted with is your baby girl in her crib.

“It might, but then again, I don’t want the entire kitchen in my daughter’s bedrooms.” He trusts every one of his cooks with a lot, but that would be a privacy issue. The townhouse is a sanctuary for you and the kids.

“Couldn’t agree more.” Zach is a doting girl dad, but he isn’t crazy about keeping an eye on them all the time, and honestly you’re proud of the way the two of you have managed to balance parenthood.

“I’ll load it up on your phone tonight so we can check in whenever we need to.” The past ten years have been the best years of his life and he loves how the two of you have expanded your business, your relationship, your lives into what they are now. “Have I told you how gorgeous you are today?” He hums, his hands sliding up your thighs to your hips.

“Maybe.” The hum of a laugh bubbles up on your lips. “And if you tell me like that, I’m going to be pregnant all over again.”

“I wouldn’t mind.” He promises, even if you’ve just come back to work. Tonight is your first performance since blessing him with his second daughter.

“Of course you wouldn’t.” You can’t help but laugh a little as you turn around in his lap to press a kiss to Zach’s lips. “Making the girls is your favorite part.”

There’s a cocky smirk on his lips as he nudges his nose against yours. “Didn’t hear a complaint from you about making them. Most of the time you were begging for more.”

“Damn right I was.” Another kiss. And then two more because he’s looking exceptionally happy and handsome tonight. “Because I’m not an idiot.”

“I love you.” He murmurs softly. “You look amazing, baby.” You’ve been nervous about baby weight but he thinks you look incredible.

"I love you, too." The dress you have on is one of your grandmother's, just like you had talked about years ago. The tenth anniversary of your family-run supper club is a very big deal and deserves to be honored in the best way possible. "More every single day."

“I don’t know how that is possible.” He hums, even though he would tell you the exactly same thing. “Everything is prepped and the reporters we invited have already come through for a behind the scenes peek at the kitchen for pictures.”

“I still can’t believe we’re getting an anniversary profile done on this place.” It has settled in your heart like something calm and soothing after the excitement of so many years — but your grandfather’s family theater is now booming again and it has become a family business for so many other couples and young kids now that you could basically run a daycare for all the staff and it would be as fully booked as any other.

“I think the reservations are going to be months out after this.” Zach admits, feeling just as blessed. “I might have let them try everything we are serving tonight.”

“I think you should.” You hum softly, leaning your forehead against his. “You never know which bite is going to be the one that makes somebody fall in love.”

“Are you saying you fell in love with me because of my food?” He asks teasingly, knowing full well why the two of you are such a solid team. Both of you strive to love each other more every day. Respecting each other and working together for the life you love.

“I’m saying we have a constant stream of dates, proposals, and anniversary celebrations here for a reason,” you hum, letting another kiss punctuate your point. “And the bachelorette parties are starting to get more frequent, too.”

“So you’re saying we need to bring in those Chippendale dancers?” Zach snorts, shrugging slightly. “Have the special be bangers and mash that night?”

“That’s obviously exactly what I meant,” you tease back, nudging him before you move to climb out of his lap. “We’ll go themed from now on.”

He chuckles as he pats your ass in appreciation. He loves the way your body has filled out with the birth of your two children, although as a performer you had been fretting about fitting into your dresses. It had worked out in the end and he likes the fact that there’s a little more in some places. “Sounds good, baby.” He hums. “I know you sometimes need a break.”

“That’s what we have Jeannine for.” Keo’s soulmate had turned out to be a singer as well, and with her on board to join the band and become part of the club’s family, it had ensured that you both get good vocal rest and every guest got a fantastic show. Tonight you’ll be on together which is twice as much fun.

“And the kitchen staff is coming along so well, I could step back and let them run things with no worries.” He admits, smirking proudly.

“Which you would never do.” No, you know your husband far too well for that.

“It wouldn’t be fair to ask them to work the late hours if I’m not.” He reasons with a shrug.

“Mmhmm.” The grin never leaves your face. “It has nothing at all to do with both of us being workaholics.”

“Nothing at all.” Zach has been determined to help you regrow the inheritance from your grandmother. Wanting to pay back every penny it took to remodel the theatre. Even if you protest, he wants to be able to give the girls something.

“Does that mean you’re ready to work that cute butt off tonight?” It’s going to be nonstop, but you both like it that way. Right now it’s the calm before the storm — a storm that you’re so familiar with it might as well be your oldest child.

“Of course.” He huffs. “I have to uphold my end of this deal. Amazing food to go with your spectacular singing.” He never fails to praise you. “And I like the idea of doing all of this canapé style. Finger foods and tasters.”

“It makes it feel like one big party.” He comes to your outstretched hand easily, as though you had done kind of magic to draw him in even after ten years. “It’s going to be perfect. I can feel it.”

“Of course it is.” He smiles and drops a soft kiss on your lips, careful to not smudge your lipstick too much. “I get to hear an angel sing in the kitchen.” He had speakers put in the kitchen when he had it built so he could hear you perform.

“Still such a flatterer.” And you love it just as much as you always have.

“Not flattery when you are just telling the truth.” He promises.

“I love you too.” The promise will never fade, but for now you tug him out of his office — otherwise you really won’t get a single thing done.

The chaos of the kitchen is still ongoing, it won’t stop until the door is closed and the last counter is wiped down, but it is smooth. Everyone knows their roles too well to be in each other’s way and the design is supposed to make the kitchen flow seamlessly.

“Chef!” It’s a comment shouted at least a dozen times a night but Zach swings towards the sound. “We need a second opinion.”

There is a set of three prep containers set out on the counter, all of them bearing different sauces, and it's obvious that the time has come for decision making. There are a hell of a lot of things to sauce and garnish tonight and everything has to be perfect.

“What do we have?” Zach asks, smirking slightly at the way the two frown seriously at him.

"Horseradish cream for the steak and parsnip blinis," his saucier points out each thing that requires approval. Each thing is slightly off and the chef's keen palette is needed tonight to make sure everything is completely perfect. "The whipped herbed brie for the fig crostini. And the third is the sweet chili cocktail sauce for the shrimp."

Zach coats the sauces on the backs of two spoons. First the horseradish. He hands one to you since you have become so involved with his cooking. You still aren’t amazing at whipping up your own creations but you can tell someone what they are missing.

"Is this a test?" You tease, knowing that is sort of is and sort of isn't. He likes to have you in the kitchen with him and his staff has come to accept and expect the slightly unconventional input.

“Just tell me what you think.” He snorts, rolling his eyes as he takes a tentative lick of the spoon and hums.

It doesn't surprise you that everything that comes out of Zach's kitchen is good, but you perk up at the first taste of the horseradish sauce. "Oo, herby!" It's bursting with flavor, but you tilt your head to the side to try to actually think and provide a helpful opinion. It's...a little salty, I think? Acid to balance?"

He grins at your descriptions and he nods, taking another taste. “Lemon juice.” He agrees and looks at the saucier. “I think we add a tablespoon of lemon juice at a time until you get that balance.”

"Oui, chef." The bowl is taken away to be fixed and Zach moves on the next container.

“Now the Brie.” This one, Zach scoops up a small taste of the whipped cheese and hands it to you after taking the other spoon away to toss in the sink specifically for tasting spoons.

Brie is a thing that has become a big fan favorite on the appetizer menu, and with various cheese trending in many ways, Zach and his staff have been having fun with it lately. This whipped brie is like a spread that will go on a toasted piece of bread with sliced fig, toasted walnuts, and a drizzle of honey to make a delicious vegetarian bite tonight. The trouble is, when you taste it, it's slightly flat.

Frowning, Zach tastes it several times, discarding the spoon and grabbing another before reaching for the pepper grinder. “Just trust me.” He cautions when you look at him like he’s got three heads.

"I trust you." You tell him, but watch him put a surprising amount of fresh cracked black pepper into the brie spread. Once he mixes it up again, he puts some on a new tasting spoon and holds it out to you. "Oh–" Your eyes light up. "Damn that is good."

“Now imagine it with the fig and honey.” He hums even as he reaches for the other ingredients to put together a bite to make sure it’s cohesive.

“You’re an evil genius,” you grin, practically giggling as he assembles the bite.

“Not just me.” He has to give credit to his cooks, they have ideas that he will use in a heartbeat, and give them the credit for.

“It’s like a mad scientist that lab in here sometimes,” you tell them all, still grinning. “And I mean that as the highest compliment.”

“Sometimes.” He chuckles in agreement and nods. “The pepper gives it the kick it needs.” He tells them.

“Oui, chef. Got it.” One of his prep cooks nods and makes off with the container to go fix the rest of the batch.

“Now the sweet chili.” Zach knows that is one of your favorites and he just hands you the last spoon. “Sweetheart?”

“You know what my answer is going to be.” You almost cackle with happiness as he simply hands over the unexpectedly delicious concoction. “It’s always more spice.”

He snorts. “Every day you were pregnant, I would swear you would eat a gallon of Thai chili sauce and swear it wasn’t hot enough.”

“It wasn’t, and I will die on that hill.” Both of your girls had you craving as much spicy food as you could handle, and they’ve gotten the nickname the Firecrackers because of it. One taste of the sauce, however, and you hum in momentary confusion. For once there is plenty enough spice, but the balance still isn’t quite right. It’s like something only dipped its toe in the pool instead of going for a swim. “I think…” you look at him curiously. “Ginger? It feels a little light on ginger.”

Zach glances at the bowl and then at you. “I will never challenge your expertise on chili sauce.” He teases and Marcus, the assistant front of house manager, comes bustling into the kitchen. “Zach, your special guests have arrived.” He tells the chef breathlessly.

“Special guests?” That has your eyebrow raises instantly. Your husband has a few celebrities and other guests that sometimes make special reservations, but he hadn’t told you about any for tonight.

“Yes.” He smirks and reaches for your hand. “Come on.” He urges, knowing that they will change the sauce to add the extra ginger like you had suggested.

“Who’s coming tonight?” The reporters, obviously. A few friends of the club that have become regulars over the years. Some of the bands’ family members were able to come but not too many. It’s going to be a party, sure, but mostly one that people are going to pay to come to and slap all over their social media.

“Some people for you.” The years had improved things and grandchildren had mellowed them even more. So Zach doesn’t have to worry about your reaction when he opens the door to the lounge area to reveal your mother and father waiting. He had called to ask them to come out weeks ago, keeping it a surprise since they had never actually seen you perform here at the theatre.

"Dad?" Your voice chokes in your throat when the door opens, and the first person you see is your father standing in the darkened club. When your mother – who had long considered Tulsa the largest city in the world and therefore the best – peaks out from behind him, you almost sob outright. "Mom?"

“Sweetheart!” Your mother’s eyes widen when she sees that you are wearing a dress that belonged to your grandmother, looking glamorous. Like a celebrity. “Zach said that you wouldn’t be upset at us coming?” The relationship has much improved but now she worries about overstepping.

"No!" No, oh my god." You rush forward to hug them both, feeling bubbling and nearly giggly. "I'm thrilled! I never thought I'd get you two up here for...for anything, really." Given your mother's history, you had never pressed her to come and see you perform. You had always been good about bringing your daughter down to Oklahoma to see her grandparents a few times a year. Now that there are two grandbabies it was going to be all the more important – but here they are. Right in your city.

“Oh good.” Tom chuckles as he wraps his arms around you and folds you into a tight hug. “I told you dear. Especially tonight. This is special for them both. We are so proud of you.” He murmurs in your ear before kissing your cheek and pulling back.

You would normally blame it on leftover hormones and wacky sleep schedule from the baby, but you know the tears that you fan away from your eyes are just because you're so happy to see them. "I can't believe you're actually here."

“We are excited to see you perform.” Your mother gushes. “I’ve heard you sing, of course, but this is different.” She follows the theatre’s Facebook page. That and her grand babies is the entire reason she got Facebook.

"Well I hope I don't fuck up now," you joke, squeezing them both in another hug. "How long are you in the city for? Please say it's a little while? Gracie's going to be so excited to see you."

“Uh, well,” Tom shuffles slightly. “Zach said we were welcomed to use the apartment here for the next week?” He looks back at your husband, his son-in-law. “If something’s come up, we can get a hotel, but we wanted to spend some time with the girls.”

"A whole week?" Another squeak of excitement bursts out of you and you're nodding emphatically before you can even think about the action. "Absolutely, yes. That's amazing. And we'll make sure we have Darrel and River over for at least one meal while you're here. I know he'll be glad to see you, too."

“It’s so nice that he found his place.” Your mother murmurs, smiling at you and then moving to give Zach a hug. She has been trying to make sure that he knows that she is completely happy with him as her son in law.

"We all sort of...settled." In unexpected ways, for some. Darrel never thought for a second that he'd be living in New York City or working in a theater, but he's the happiest he's ever been in his life. You and Zach got your dream and then some. The club is thriving, your friends are happy, and your kids have a little built-in family that's always looking after them. It's perfect.

“That’s perfect.” She smiles. “I brought a few things that his parents wanted me to bring.”

"He'll be so grateful." Just as you are, making you turn and bury yourself in your husband's side with a grateful sigh. "Now it's going to be a perfect party."

Zach grins and kisses your temple. “I thought you might like this surprise.” He admits with a small laugh.

"It might actually be my favorite of any surprise you've ever given me." You promise him, returning the show of affection with a kiss to his cheek. For your parents, you have nothing but smiles tonight. "I'm going to let my staff know what table you guys are at, okay? Absolutely anything you want tonight, they'll make sure you get it."

“Oh, we don’t—” even as she beams at the idea of special treatment, she tries to wave it away but Tom stops her.

“Thank you sweetie,” he grunts as he takes her hand. “We will be cheering you on. Don’t be surprised if your mother starts crying.”

"I'll try not to look directly at you too often, or else I'll cry too." But you do make a mental note to yourself, and as soon as you go backstage again you're going to ask the band about adding your parents' song to the set tonight. Love Me Tender is already something you perform regularly so it shouldn't be a problem.

Marcus comes back into the room to escort your parents to the table he has set up for them, giving them a prime table. Ready to get their first drinks and get the night started.

"You're such an incredible sweetheart." You hang on Zach for a second after you disappear again, ringing your arms around his neck and shuddering out the happiest of sighs. "Thank you. Thank you so much."

“I didn’t do anything more than suggest that you would love to have them come.” He promises. “Your parents jumped at the chance.” He chuckles. “Maybe we can convince them to move here. Be closer to the grandkids.” It’s something he would have never considered ten years ago, but everyone has changed and grown closer. True happiness has a tendency of changing hearts and minds,

"We can toss it out as an idea while they're here and see if they're even interested." But to you, it sounds wonderful. The natural next best step, like when your cousin had gotten engaged and started house hunting around Tulsa, so you had simply sold them your grandmother's house.

“There’s a building that Darrel has been eyeing.” Zach admits with a grin. “It would make a perfect apartment for them if they did want to move.”

"Are you guys talking about flipping again?" You raise one eyebrow skeptically. Every year or two the two of them start theorizing about starting up a side business flipping houses or apartments around Brooklyn but they haven't done it yet.

“Would you be mad?” He asks seriously. “I wouldn’t touch the main accounts for anything.”

"Of course I wouldn't be mad. In fact?" In fact, you're still so glad that they have become close friends that anytime they want to spend together is more than fine with you, even ten years later. "If it ends up bringing in a little extra money, there will be a couple of kids whose college funds could benefit. I think River might finally be pregnant. She was acting a little mysterious earlier. But in an excited way."

“You think?” His eyes widen and he knows Darrel would be the happiest man alive if she was. “Fingers crossed.”

"Fingers crossed." The kiss you have for him this time is a little longer but still not enough to smear your lipstick, and you straighten yourself out with a happy smile. "Alright, I gotta go talk to the band. I want to make sure we put my parents' song in the set tonight."

“Break a leg, baby.” He always wishes you well before a performance and tonight is no different.

"I love you!" Even a few hurried paces down the hall, you stop to whirl around and blow him a kiss.

“I love you too.” He promises, winking at you before he drifts back into the kitchen to triple check everything.

This party will be perfect. He knows it. It’s the culmination of everyone’s hard work and he knows the articles will bring in even more business. Everything has been perfect.

******

The after party, as it turns out, is more like what your staff parties back on the cruise ship used to be like. After saying goodnight to your special guests and shutting the place down, the band and a few members of the house staff head over to Rick and Cliff’s apartment to unwind and enjoy each other’s company until dawn. You know that the parents will never make it that long, but you and Zach aren’t going to miss a chance to spend down time with friends.

“I think that tonight was a success.” Zach grins, running off adrenaline and exuberance as he walks alongside you. Practically skipping as he thinks about the murmured praise.

"You skewed my way of thinking about it," you admit, giggling when he practically skips along beside you. "I only care that my parents enjoyed themselves, and they had a blast."

“Are you happy that I surprised you with that?” He asks, watching as you seem to float on air.

"Pretty damn close to ecstatic." Reaching out with one hand, you snag his and thread your fingers together. The streets of Brooklyn Heights are quiet at this hour but not abandoned, and an old man walking past chuckles to himself at the obvious affection between you.

“I didn’t tell you just in case they changed their minds.” He admits. “Since your mother doesn’t care for traveling.”

He was right to be cautious, but you're grateful he even thought to do such a wonderful thing for you. For your daughters. "The girls will never know what a miracle it is that their grandparents braved the big city to come and see them."

“I know.” He chuckles. “When Gracie was born, I swear your mom wanted you to go have her in Tulsa.”

"She definitely asked." A fact which you hadn't told him at the time, because you had just laughed it off on the phone with your Mom and started telling her about your fantastic doctor in the city. "Didn't pursue it or make a fuss, but just...tossed the idea out."

He snorts. “Oh I can imagine.” He laughs. “She would have wanted you to have a home birth. Maybe in your gram’s house.”

"Can you imagine barging in on my cousin like that?" It's such a ridiculous notion, and you take comfort in the fact that it never even became a discussion. That your mother has mellowed in the years since everything came to light.

“Excuse me, I know I sold you the house, but can I give birth in your living room?” Over the years Zach has perfected the impression of you mixed with your mother. He uses that voice now to make you laugh at the absurdity.

You snort, laughing as you walk together. "Yeah, that would not have gone over well. And I would not have been happy with a country birth."

“You like your hospital drugs.” He teases, remembering how you screamed for the epidural last time. “And I don’t fucking blame you.” He snorted. “I make big babies.”

"Thank god twins don't run in your family," you grumble, shooting him a pointed look.

“I know.” He grins and winks playfully. “Ready to try for that little brother the girls need?”

"You're really into baby number three, huh?" Not that you mind. Not really. Having been lucky enough to have few difficulties during the births of both of your girls, it isn't as daunting for you as it often is for other women.

“Baby, when you’re done, we’re done.” He promises you seriously. “If our two girls are it, I’m gonna be the happiest girl dad ever.”

"I'm honestly not sure," you admit, and squeeze his hand gently as you turn the corner toward your destination. It's just another block away. "I've been focused on making sure the girls are good and making sure this party happens. I haven't really thought about the next thing down the road."

“Then we stay safe until you have a chance to think about it and if you’re done….” He squeezes your hand gently. “I’ll go get the snip.”

"We'll see." The sound of a third does make you smile, though, and you lean against his side. "We'll see."

He hums, knowing that means that you will want another baby in about a year. “Yes, we will.”

"That hum was knowing." And even as you raise an eyebrow at him, you know he knows. That he can read you like an open book. That from your soul to his, all the most wonderful things in the world are possible.

“That you’re going to be begging for another baby within a year?” He teases. “Yeah, baby, I know.”

"Am not." But you pout to cover the laugh that tells him you know he's right.

He chuckles and drags you closer for a kiss. “So you think that River is pregnant?” He hums. “Tell you what, if she announces it tonight, I’ll make sure I remind you how much fun trying for a baby is.”

"That is a deal." You agree happily, leaning into one – two – more kisses. "And she definitely is. Darry looked like he was floating on air tonight."

“Think that’s why she was looking for him earlier?” Zach asks, knowing how excited you were to tell him both times you figured out you were pregnant.

"Absolutely." At the bottom floor of the apartment building, you steal one more kiss and beam a smile right at Zach. "It's so hard to keep that kind of thin a secret once you find out."

“Then let’s go celebrate with our friends, my love.” He hums and smiles at you. “They deserve to be parents.”

"They deserve all the good things." All your friends do. You all work hard and give your all to everything in life. It's only fair that you should get as much happiness in return.

“Yes they do.” He couldn’t agree more and it shouldn’t be surprising that he has become such good friends with Darrel, but it’s a wonderful outcome.

You're the last arrivals because you insisted on closing down the club yourselves, and the first thing that happens when you walk into the apartment is both you and Zach have drinks thrust into your hands.

“What is this, a celebration?” Zach demands, holding up his glass. “All of you made me proud tonight. Be damn proud of yourselves!”

That elicits a cheer from the group, and various waves of laughter afterward at how in unison the cheer was. "Seriously, guys." You hold up the beer that was handed to you, pausing to be grateful for a moment that you decided to pump and dump tonight. There's plenty of milk at home. "Thank you. From the bottom of our hearts. It's been ten amazing years and we look forward to many, many more."

River clears her throat and smiles. “This wouldn’t be possible without your vision. Any of this.”

"We have a big, beautiful, shared vision." You contend, smiling at your friend first and then the rest of the group. "A shared vision in a big, fabulous family."

“Speak of family.” She hums, Darrel grins as he steps closer to his wife and wraps his arm around her waist to drag her close. “We have an announcement. I hope no one minds.”

There are murmurs, a ripple of smiles moving through the group, and you step back happily. “The floor is yours,” you tell them, practically ready to shout with happiness for your friends. You were absolutely right.

River chokes up, watery, happy tears streaming down her face. “I found out today that Darrel and I are expecting our first of hopefully many children.” Everyone here knows they had been struggling with conceiving, so this is a happy miracle for them.

The absolute screaming cheer that goes up is louder than anything previous, and there are sure to be noise complaints from the people upstairs but no one gives a shit. You practically skip forward go wrap your arms around them both, happy tears pricking at your eyes. “I knew it?” You laugh tearfully. “Congratulations you guys.”

“Well, you’re going to be an auntie!” She huffs, tears happily streaming down her face. “Our little ones will be able to play together after all.”

“You’re going to be as amazing a mom as you already are an auntie to Gracie and Jess.” River has been there through thick and thin for your girls, and you could not be more grateful. It will be a privilege to be able to return the favor.

“I cannot wait to have the aches and pains.” She admits with a laugh as Zach moves to shake Darrel’s hand in congratulations. “You’ll have to go get pedicures with me.”

"Absolutely." Having shared with her that pedicures were one of your true pleasures during your pregnancies – mostly for the foot massage – you are more than willing to share that experience. "You're going to be so grateful to sit for as long as you can."

“I love you.” She is tearing up again, hugging you tight before pulling away. “Now, we just need to celebrate!” She picks up her glass of ginger ale.

"If there is one thing we're very good at," you hum, looking around at the group – the family – you've assembled. "It's having a damn good time."

The party quickly kicks into full swing, several of the cooks had already started preparing more food while at work. In a tradition that was born from the cruise ship, and had quickly become a favorite of all the after party guests.

These are the nights that plans are made. That plots get hatched. And in cases like yours and Zach's? The nights that dreams come true. There's no way of knowing what will happen tonight or happen at any party in the future. The only thing you do know is that you want to be there for every second of this family's future.

------ Master Tags: @pixiedurango @chattychell @winter-fox-queen @lady-himbo @artsymaddie @princess76179 @paintballkid711 @missminkylove @pedrosbrat @ew-erin @sarahjkl82-blog @sharkbait77 @justanotherblonde23 @lv7867 @recklesswit @mylittlesenaar @f0rever15elf @gallowsjoker @steeevienicks @athalien @sherala007 @skvatnavle @thatpinkshirt @jaime1110 @girlimjusttryingtoreadfanfics @goodgriefitsawildworld @greeneyedblondie44 @littlemousedroid @harriedandharassed @churchill356 @ajathegreats-blog @haylzcyon   @beardsanddetectives @kirsteng42 @ladykatakuri @adancedivasmom @madiebear @tanzthompson @emilianamason @bigsdinger @xocalliexo @pedr0swh0r3 @avaleineandafryingpan @charlyrmv @avidreader73 @iceclaw101 @loveslide @elegantduckturtle @becsworld @julesonrecord @its-nebuleuse @itsrubberbisquit @mikeyswifie @guelyury @lizzie-cakes @for-a-longlongtime @vabeachazn @purplerain04 @weho2kcmo @madnessofadaydreamer

ItSotN: @greenwitchfromthewoods @copperhalfcent @ariavitiellos @spishsstuff @76bookworm76

[missowo]

I love how they can read each other mind and same thoughts in canon

[mikkolas]

what if WE🫵😳🤯 were perma-lineys and we've known each other since your rookie year and have always been attached at the hip and wherever I was you were also always there and we were BOTH BOYS❓️😳

[braveclementine]

Chapter 37

Warnings: Heavy angst, then resolution

Copyright: I do not own any Marvel characters or locations. However, I do own my OC: Elizabeth Y/L/N (created so you don't get Y/N and Y/S/N consistently mixed up. I do not condone any copying of this.

ELIZABETH HAD NEVER BEEN MORE FURIOUS. It had been an extremely crappy night. She knew she'd told Bucky her deepest secret: She really did care about soulmates. It absolutely shattered her when Bucky and Steve rejected her. All she had ever wanted was her soulmates and for her soulmates to love her. She would've even given up the farm for all of her soulmates. She knew Bucky was there when she fell asleep.

He was gone when she woke up again. And Hogun and Loki weren't back either.

Nor had she seen Tony and Stephen as they both disappeared into the lab and library respectively. And Sam had seemed in such a bad mood she felt quite alone.

And then Y/N was asking all of these questions, pressing. And Y/N had revealed that Tony had known about why Steve hated her. And that he hadn't told her!

And Y/N just kept pushing and pushing and Elizabeth snapped.

At least she didn't freeze a coffee table this time.

"Just shut up!" She shouted at Y/N, "Who the hell do you think you are? You have no rights to complain here!"

"Neither do you!" Y/N snapped. She'd stood up at some point, crossing her arms over her chest and leaning against the wall by the kitchen exit. "You've got everything you want!"

"Excuse me!" Elizabeth was fuming now. "Everything? You're so stupid Y/N! How could I possibly have everything! You have all of your soulmates! All of your soulmates love you! Mom loves you! Dad loves you! God fucking everyone loves you Y/N! You've even got friends! You've got a real job! You're going to be the Queen of Asgard!"

"So what?" Y/N smarted. "So what! You've got all of that too!"

"Mom tried to have me killed!"

"You have amazing superpowers that you could use to become an Avenger!"

"I don't want them! I never wanted them! And you! You who hates the farm, hates everything about the farm, you got the most amazing superpower ever!" Elizabeth shrieked, eyes brimming with stupid tears. "Are you kidding me right now? Do you know how much harvest I could bring in if I had your powers? What I could do with the farm if I had the ability to control nature like you?"

By now, just about everyone had gathered around the kitchen doors. From where Elizabeth was standing, she could only see Wanda who looked anxious, but a hint of dark skin meant that either Sam or Rhodey was standing just slightly behind her. And Elizabeth was sure that they weren't the only people there.

"It's a useless power!" Y/N smarted. "I don't see why you've got to be so angry at me!"

"Why the hell are you jealous of me?" Elizabeth asked. "You went ahead and got your stupid superpowers because you were so jealous that I had superpowers. And now, you hate them! I mean seriously!"

"Jealous!" Y/N shrieked, leaning away from the walls. "Why the hell does everyone keep asking if I'm jealous? Are you jealous?"

"YOU'RE RIGHT!" Elizabeth finally shouted at the top of her lungs. "YOU'RE ABSOLUTELY RIGHT! I AM SO JEALOUS OF YOU IT'S UNBELIEVEABLE! YOU HAVE LITERALLY EVERYTHING Y/N AND YOU DON'T EVEN REALIZE IT. YOU HAVE AMAZING SOULMATES WHO ALL CARE ABOUT YOU! YOU'VE NEVER HAD TO DEAL WITH REJECTION, YOU'VE NEVER HAD TO REALIZE THAT YOUR OWN SOULMATES THOUGHT YOU WERE CAPABLE OF KILLING YOUR OWN SISTER! YOU NEVER HAD TO DEAL WITH ANY OF THE SHIT THAT I'VE DEALT WITH. YOU NEVER HAD TO LIVE, REALIZING THAT YOUR OWN MOTHER WANTED YOU DEAD! YOU'VE NEVER HAD TO BE LOCKED UP BECAUSE YOU COULDN'T CONTROL YOUR POWERS! YOU'VE NEVER HAD TO FIGHT FOR YOUR LIFE AND BE HUMILIATED BECAUSE YOU COULDN'T KEEP YOURSELF SAFE!"

Elizabeth was sobbing at this point while Y/N stared at her like a gaping goldfish. "You're gorgeous and funny. You have a great sense of style and everyone likes you. You've never doubted yourself and you've always known what you want to do with your life. You've always reach your goals and you're the favorite. You've never had to work for anyone's praise or attentions, you always just got it. You got the friends and the boys and the teachers' approval no matter what! So yes. I'm jealous you! So fucking jealous."

Y/N's eyes were glittering and she shouted right back at Elizabeth, "FUCK YOU! SCREW YOU ELIZABETH! HOW DARE YOU SAY IT BEFORE ME! WHY'D YOU HAVE TO SAY IT FIRST! YOU THINK IT'S BEEN EASY? YOU THINK LIVING WITH THE GUILT THAT I ALMOST KILLED MY SISTER IS EASY? Oh yeah, it was easy for you because you're so SWEET that you could just fucking forgive me immediately. WELL IT DOESN'T WORK LIKE THAT FOR ME! AND EVERYONE LOVES YOU! YOU'RE AN AMAZING COOK AND YOU'RE SO FUCKING SMART YOU COULD'VE GONE TO COLLEGE AND BECOME A DOCTOR! You really think you had no idea what to do with your life? You've always planned on running that farm! YOU ALWAYS STICK TO YOUR MORALS, NO MATTER HOW ANYONE ELSE SEES THEM! AND I ADMIRE THAT SO FUCKING MUCH."

Y/N slammed her fist against the table. "Everyone here took to you so easily. You fit in so easily! Even FURY loved you! I had to struggle to fit in! But everyone loved you immediately! And you HATE the city! How is that even possible! Why do you even think I pushed you off that cliff in the first place? I was jealous of you! I've always been jealous of you! God, as much as I knew I was the first born and mother kept telling me I was amazing, I never thought in a million years that my soulmates would choose me when you were the other option! You are so beautiful Elizabeth. Everyone's mouths dropped when you came down that staircase as the Asgardian ball and they never did that for me. Hell! Loki even chose you as his soulmate and added me on as a second! Sam preferred you over me! But you stand there and you say that your soulmates all rejected you! Fuck you! Of course I'm jealous of you! Fuck why did she have to be right!?"

Both Elizabeth and Y/N seethed in anger, both of them crying. Elizabeth collapsed into the chair at the kitchen counter, crying into her arms. Y/N sank down against the wall.

After a moment or two, the both of them calmed down and they looked at each other.

"Fuck you too." Elizabeth muttered.

Y/N let out a shaky laugh.

"I really am sorry." Y/N murmured, getting up and moving to sit next to Elizabeth. "God I had no idea you were jealous of me. I had no idea you thought I was better than you. I've never been better than you Elizabeth."

Elizabeth hiccupped, wrapping her arms around Y/N and snuggled into her.

There was some sort of cordial peace between the two of them that had never been there before.

And all the both of them could keep thinking was:

What happened next? 

⬅️➡️

[natalievoncatte]

“Open your eyes and look at what you did.”

Lena was tired. Fixing the world was heavy work, especially when it involved cracking the secrets of the ultimate weapon of a dead empire. Myriad was tucked away safely in her lab behind shielding and laser grids and the most advanced security systems in the world, but was most of all protected by Kara’s reputation. Supergirl couldn’t just smash her way into a building and steal something, especially not now, with so much public scrutiny against her.

Lena was expecting a night at home. Not to relax -she hasn’t relaxed until her brother’s wormy lips, turning blue in death, spilled those four little words and cracked her heart in half, broke it into so many pieces that all the king’s horses and all the king’s men and not even Supergirl could put it together again. What was left of her capacity for that kind of love was gone now. Lex had started the process of ripping it out.

Lena has finished it, casting the bloody shreds on the icy floor of a mausoleum in the arctic, not turning back even once to see.

She knew the DEO was watching her every move, waiting for her to make a mistake that she could seize on. She knew they were itching to take her out. Kara would probably lead the charge herself. She’d crow about how she didn’t want to do this and didn’t want to hurt Lena and then she’d perp walk her like a villain of the week.

It wasn’t remorse that swirled in her stomach. It wasn’t regret that iced her veins. It wasn’t sorrow that made her eyes burn, and it wasn’t doubt that made the clicks of her heels echo in her empty lifeless penthouse.

She did not feel any of those things. Soon, no one ever would again. A world without lies, without strife, without pain. Those twisting, burning emotions would be gone. For everyone.

For her.

Lena froze when she heard the soft click of a hammer being thumbed back on a pistol.

“Turn around.”

Lena tensed. Alex. She should have expected this- Alex didn’t care about the rules when it came to her sister.

Slowly, Lena turned. Alex was right behind her, gun in one hand, phone in the other. She started to play a video on the screen. Lena recognized it at once as the Fortress of Solitude.

“Why?” Alex choked out. “Why did it have to be you?”

Lena pressed her eyes shut, scrambling for something to say. There was a real chance that this confrontation ended with her in a pool of blood on the floor.

“Open your eyes, you bitch! Open your eyes and look at what you did!”

Lena opened them and was confronted with what she had refused to see before, what she had turned from before portalling out. Like a biblical prophet she knew that if she but turned back for a last look she’d have been undone.

Alex recorded Kara locked in the cage as she approached, calling her sister’s name. Kara didn’t respond. She simply lay curled on the floor, faint green scratches scored in her exposed skin. As Alex drew nearer, Lena could hear Kara making a peculiar sound- a rhythmic, trilling thrum, a deep basso rumble as if she were… purring.

And sobbing.

Lena tried to look away but Alex’s expression tightened. Lena forced herself to stare into the screen- the picture blurred as Alex must have been fumbling with the Kryptonian controls. Finally, the crystal cage retracted.

“Kara,” Alex was saying. “Kara, oh my god, where’s Lena? Is she alright?”

Lena flinched. Alex’s jaw tightened as their eye briefly met.

Kara’s face was a mask of pain and grief, clouded with an agony deeper than any physical hurt.

“It was Lena.”

“What?”

“It was Lena. She took Myriad from the armory and she… she was so mad, Alex. It was like she h-hated me. She was lying the whole time after I told her who I was, she already knew and she was so mad. Alex I think she hates me now.”

Kara began to sob and make that damned purring sound at the same time.

“Don’t hurt her,” Kara whimpered, “don’t hurt her, Alex. She’s good, I promise she’s good she just needs our help.”

Alex turned off the video and pressed the muzzle of her gun to Lena’s forehead.

Lena closed her eyes.

“I have every reason to,” Alex began.

“Do it,” Lena hissed. “It’s what we both want, just fucking do it. She’ll get over it.”

“No,” Alex choked out, her voice drowning in emotion. “No she won’t, ever. She has an eidetic memory. If I blow your fucking head off like I should, her last memory of you will be that, what you did to her in her most sacred place, forever.”

“Good,” Lena snapped, opening her eyes. “Good. Then she’ll know how I feel.”

“Yeah? How’s that?”

“Like she tore my heart out. I believed in her. I gave myself to her in a way I never have for anyone else. I let her in after I swore on my mother’s grave I’d never let anyone else hurt me like… like someone else did. She hammered her way into my life with her kindness and her concern and her comfort and it was all a FUCKING LIE, Alex!”

Lena sucked in a hitching breath and went on, forcing herself to go on as she blinked to force the tears from her eyes.

“It was all a lie. I’m just a Luthor to her, to you, to all of you. I sat in that apartment on game nights and movie nights and you all knew. You all knew, and you mocked me. So many cryptic comments and weird little jokes and now I know why. I let myself believe it. I let myself believe she wanted me. She kept trying to tell me something over and over and she kept backing away from it and…”

Lena froze.

The gun fell away, and Alex just stared at her.

“Oh my God. Oh my fucking God,” Alex gasped.

“No,” Lena protested, “no it’s not that!”

“You’re in love with her, aren’t you? Holy fuck, how did I not see this before? You bought a billion dollar publishing company on a whim for her. The flowers, the way you looked at me before she told you I’m her sister. Jesus. Jesus Christ, Lena. You God damn drama queen.”

“I’m a drama queen? You pointed a gun at my head!”

Alex racked the slide back, and turned the weapon so Lena could see the follower of the empty magazine had locked it open. It was unloaded.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” Lena screeched.

“I came here to tell you to give me Myriad back and stay the hell away from my sister,” said Alex.

“You pointed a real gun at my head! I don’t care if it was unloaded, the first rule of gun safety is…”

“You thought it was something else,” said Alex.

“God damn it,” Lena began, but Alex cut her off.

“You thought she was working up to tell you something else. You thought she was going to confess her love, didn’t you?”

Lena went completely still.

She had know it, of course. She had known it the way that she knew the sun would rise in the east and set in the west, the way way she knew the stars would shine and the tide would beat against the shore. She had known it in the hollows of her bones, in places she forgot she could feel.

She had not known she knew it.

Lex’s words buffeted her from memory and she felt a knew shattering, even deeper this time.

“I fucked up,” someone said, only it was Lena, her own voice echoing from somewhere far distant. She was only dimly aware of the painful jolt in her tailbone as she slid down the cabinet behind her and her ass landed on the hardwood floor.

“When Lex told me, he proved it. He proved it. I didn’t want to see it but he proved it to me. I’m not what she wants. She’ll never want me like I want her.”

Alex looked down at her and Lena watched her expression shift, dancing through a dozen different emotions.

“It hurts, doesn’t it?”

“Yeah.”

“You have anything to drink here? Something good, I don’t want to pussy around with box wine. This is a whiskey occasion.”

Perplexed, Lena simply said, “Side cupboard, there’s a bottle of single malt and some tumblers.”

Alex didn’t bother with the glasses. She took out the bottle and uncapped it, whistling softly before she took a long pull straight from the bottle.

“Smooth,” she said, not even wincing. “Shit, this bottle probably costs a month of my rent.”

“It was my dad’s favorite,” Lena muttered. “My first drink was that scotch. He gave me a little sip when I was twelve. Lillian screeched at him for it.”

“She would, she’s a thundering bitch,” said Alex.

Alex sat down and passed Lena the bottle. She took a drink and passed it back, and they sat there in silence for a while, passing drinks back and forth.

“See I’m not a shrink or anything,” said Alex, “but if I had to analyze this situation I think what I see is you hurting Kara hoping that she’ll hurt you back and validate your feelings so you can stop feeling sad about her.”

“Fuck you,” Lena muttered.

“Not my type. Besides, bro code. My sister has dibs.”

Lena almost spat out a mouthful of scotch. “What the hell are you talking about?”

“You know when she’s doing the zoom zoom thing, she has a comms piece in her ear. I listen in on what she’s doing,” Alex began to imitate Kara in a grating falsetto. “Lena you have to jump!”

“What?”

“Remember that time she was going to let the entire city’s water supply be poisoned to save you?”

Lena took another pull before passing the bottle back.

“Yeah,” said Lena, not caring that her Irish accent was slipping out.

“Or that time she flew you to the DEO after Edge poisoned you?”

“She saves people all the time,” Lena protested.

“Yeah, but she doesn’t bridal carry them to safety and moon over them like a lovesick teenager and do the whole brushing their hair back thing. She says something corny and flies off. Unless it’s you. The whole world goes on pause when it’s you.”

“It can’t be.”

Alex took a way too long drink and looked at her.

“Did it never occur to you that she might have two secrets? That the one might compel her to keep the other?”

Lena rubbed at her eyes. The whisky was weighing heavily on her, and before she knew it, she was sobbing.

To her utter shock, Alex rubbed her back.

“Here’s what we do. You and me go get Myriad,”

“I’m too drunk to drive.”

“Then call your chauffeur, you spoiled rich brat,” Alex snapped, “and we go get Myriad and we go back to the DEO. You apologize and you and Kara talk this out, and you remember that if you ever physically harm my sister again I actually will shoot you.”

“Also,” said Lena. “You and I. You and I will go get Myriad, not you and me.”

Lena yanked the bottle back and finished it.

“Okay. Okay fine, let’s-“

There was a double thud as boot heels hit the balcony, a sound Lena had long grown used to. She and Alex both watched as Kara slid the balcony door open and swept into the penthouse, cape flaring majestically behind her.

God she was so pretty, and so handsome. She was like a brave knight in some fairytale, head bowed and jaw set like she was marching to a battle she wasn’t sure she could win.

Lena’s chest ached.

“We need to talk,” Kara intoned. “I’m not going to hurt you anymore, but I can’t let you do something you’ll regret forever. I…”

She trailed off as she saw a very drunk Alex sitting next to a very drunk Lena Luthor, the pair sitting against Lena’s kitchen cabinets and dishwasher, respectively, having clearly finished off the empty bottle of scotch that sat between them.

“What the hell?” said Kara.

“Did she just cuss?” said Alex.

“She did,” said Lena.

“What is this? What are you two doing? Alex, is that your gun?”

“Yeah,” said Alex. “I’m gonna get an Uber so you two can talk this out.”

“What?” Kara said, utterly baffled.

As she stood, Lena drew her legs up and hugged her knees. She looked away at first, then looked up and made herself meet Kara’s eyes.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered. “I’m sorry I hurt you. I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” she whimpered.

With a tenderness that belied her strength, Kara gently raised Lena to her feet. She’d kicked off her heels and Kara loomed over her, soft hands that could crush steel resting gently on her arms. Lena couldn’t bear the weight of her concern. Seeing the worry in Kara’s eyes, the unconditional compassion, hurt her as much as staring into the sun.

“I’m the one who should be sorry,” said Kara. “I’m the one who should apologize. You were right, Lena. I forced myself into your life and pushed past all your barriers but I never lowered mine. I tried to live in your heart but made you live like a guest in mine. You deserve better.”

“I don’t want better,” Lena whispered. “I want you.”

Kara went very still.

“You want me?”

“I’m so sorry I hurt you, Kara.”

Kara took a half step forward and pulled Lena into an embrace, guiding her into a hug. As those arms like stone walls curled around her and the cape sheltered her against Kara’s unnatural, fever-hot warmth, Lena choked back a hitching sob. It almost felt like it would be okay.

“It’s alright,” Kara whispered. “It’ll be okay. We can come back from this.”

“How? I hurt you, Kara.”

“I forgive you.”

“You can’t just-“

“Shhh,” Kara nuzzled against the crown of Lena’s head. “I’m Supergirl. I can do anything.”

[scrumptiousstuffs]

seeing first with khaotung's mother caused me severe brain damage. first all shy, khaotung smiling fondly... im in delulu land theres no going back im already ill

We are all in delulu land 🧡🤍💫 - let’s be happy there together 🤣

And here, let me add more to your deluluness - KT mom posted this in her IG update:

That’s his TWO SONS there 🫵🫵🫵 …she adores both of them equally

Plus, here - have this video. I can’t resist seeing First trying to control his blush when the fans/MC teased him when KT’s mom hugged him (and decided to stay next to him for the photo session 🥰)

05/11/2024

Source of video as above

[arthurmargon]

charthur besties RISE

[foursaints]

actually the idea of petuniajames infidelity has crazy potential and is making me feel insane. this one has an extra kick to it... and they were both complicit

[huntingrays]

pjo soulmate au:

soulmate au where everyone has the name of their soulmate written on them, but it’s just their soulmate’s last name

when piper and leo first met, they became fast friends. part of this was to do with them getting along so well, but another part was due to them having the same soulmark. they would always joke around about it, wondering if they either shared this ‘grace’ person of if they’d be with siblings

turns out, the latter was true… but they guessed the wrong sibling

the moment they met (or rather ‘met’) jason and learned his last name, piper immediately assumed he was the one, and leo jokingly asked if he had a hot sister. when they ended up meeting the hunters much later, while on the quest, leo was very happy to find out that jason did, in fact, have a very beautiful, cool, badass older sister. the only downside was that she swore off dating

so, if they both found their soulmates, why didn’t things feel… right?

meanwhile, for years, jason was both worried and excited to meet whoever this ‘valdez’ he was fated to be with. he was anxious about it, worried about being enough for whoever his soulmate would end up being. he wasn’t expecting someone like leo. he also wasn’t expecting to wake up on a bus with amnesia and the news that he’s dating his soulmate’s best friend. he wasn’t sure what to do in this situation. piper did have his name on her… was he both of their soulmates? was one platonic and the other romantic? sure, he began to like piper… but his feelings for leo were so… different. stronger. leo made him feel… strange. he made him feel safe. he wasn’t sure when he last felt that way. he wasn’t sure how to deal with all this on top of his amnesia

thalia wasn’t a hopeless romantic. she wasn’t like annabeth, who told her in soft whispers that she dreamed of meeting this jackson, hoping they would stay with her unlike her parents. however, she also wasn’t like luke, who burned his own mark beyond recognition after finding out hermes was his mom’s soulmate. rather, she was looking forward to meeting her supposed second half, but she didn’t let it control her life. she simply took care of her friends, became a tree, went on a quest, then became a hunter, thinking she would never meet this person as the years went by. after all, she learned post-tree that ‘mclean’ wasn’t a very common name, and was the last name of a very popular (and handsome) actor. she didn’t like the idea of a man old enough to be her father being her soulmate, so she tried not to think about it. then she met piper mclean, the actor’s daughter, who was even more breathtaking and stunning than him. she met her soulmate… who was infatuated with her baby brother. now she was in a pickle. does she tell the truth, or just forget about, letting the two be together while she forgets all about the girl and continues being a hunter? or does she come clean and see where this takes them? also what’s with her baby brother keeping that leo guy close to him? what’s with the looks he shoots him, the comfort he finds in the other guy?

why the fuck did aphrodite have to toss them a such a complex soulmate situation?