#slept so through it I did not only miss the 9 AM but also the 10:30 mass

[badolmen]

oops

[readychilledwine]

Bound by Fate pt 8

Summary - When Kaylee Archeron meets Azriel, her world turns upside down. Between balancing her trauma, new powers, a mating bond, and war looming over her new home, Kaylee learns that everything is not as little as it once seemed.

Warnings - Violence, a tiny dragon, Elain being mean, sappy batboys trying to get their Kaylee home

A/n - Sheeeeees baaaaaack. I cut this into a part 8 and part 9 because I felt the ending was dramatic enough alone. Also, I am hoping I got all of you on the taglist, but please let me know if you want to be added or if I missed you. I am hitting my tag limit with this story, so I apologize for the reblog that's about to come.

Also, thank you @sarawritestories for cheering me on through my love hate relationship with this chapter

Series Masterlist ✨️ Azriel Masterlist ✨️ Master Masterlist

Azriel had never felt more broken than he did right now.

She was lonely.

His mate was lonely.

He moved to her slowly, kneeling before her and stroking her cheek. “Let me take you home, Kaylee. It's going to get too cold here. You hate being cold.”

Kaylee wouldn't look at him. She didn't move from his touch, but she didn't acknowledge him either. It stung him to his core to see her like this. “Kaylee, starlight, please, come home. I will bring you back tomorrow if I must, just please come home.”

“Did you do it?” 

Azriel knew immediately what she meant. His stomach dropped as he got closer, finally feeling her soft skin under his. “No. I never touched her. You are mine, Kaylee. I am yours." He took her chin in his hand, forcing her face to his. "You are the only female I will ever want. I've waited over 500 years for you.”

And those long years wishing to the lost souls during Starfall and to every twinkling piece of starlight felt so miniscule now. What was 500 years compared to the eternity he was fated to have with Kaylee. Beautiful, kind, and innocent Kaylee. “I would never risk losing you.”  He almost jumped as the drake huffed, golden brown eyes opening to stare at the 3 males before snuggling into Kaylee. 

Azriel tentatively reached out, patting the nose of the beast resting his head in Kaylee's lap. “He is fairly attached to you already.” 

“Can you blame him?” Cassian took a small step towards Kaylee, gently tilting her head up. “Have you ever met someone like our Kaylee?”

Rhysand then moved closer to. “Such pure souls are rare. And it appears we all made a mistake while dealing with this one.” His hand brushed her golden hair back. “Come home, little sister.”

She shook her head, eyes watering as she snuggled into the drake's snoot and kissed it. “He is so lonely.” Another soft huff came. Then, the scent of magic. Where a large drake once laid, a small one now sat in Kaylee's hands. Wide blue eyes turned to Rhysand, a pout already forming and triggering a distant memory he didn't dare linger on for too long. “Can we keep him?” 

An otter, a drake, a rabbit, a fox. Azriel had lost track of the animals sneaking into Kaylee's room to join her as she slept soundly in his arms. She had never said she forgave him, never asked for more of an explanation, but she knew she did not want him to leave again. She knew she wanted him in her bed, even if a small scaled creature now shared her pillow. 

He pulled her close, breathing in her freshly cleaned hair. The scent of strawberries was clinging to her, but it was not her. Her natural scent had started to change, and Azriel could not complain. It now reminded him of a soft rain mixing with lilac, as if she was becoming nature itself.

He smiled as she turned over, hooking her leg over his. He pulled her closer, sighing softly at the same time she did. For the first time since she left with Lucien, Azriel found himself drifting off to sleep. Even if a creature he should have feared was currently crawling onto his mate and curling up on her side near him. 

Kaylee hated mornings, but she especially hated waking up alone after asking her mate to stay. As if he knew, Azriel walked into the room a tray in his hands as gray pants rested low on his hips. “Good morning,” he sent a small plate on the floor, watching as the unnamed drake went to the raw meat. His attention was then solely on her as he set the tray down and offered her his arm, leading her to the sitting area of her lavish room. 

Rhys had decorated it with pillows and throw blankets. She remembered him sparkling with pride as the mix of deep blues and golds, as if decorating so simply was a difficult task. She has praised him nonetheless, cherishing the budding relationship with her new big brother, and somehow sensing he needed a little sister to tell him how fantastic he truly was. She did just notice, though, how they matched Azriel's siphons. “This doesn't count as accepting the bond, right?”

Azriel chuckled softly as he gave Kaylee oatmeal and fruits, “Not unless you plan on feeding or serving me. Do you want to talk now or eat first?” They both jumped as the sound of blowing fire filled the room before a heavy munching noise. “Well that answers that question.”

He watched her as she ate. He memorized little things. How she swayed when she ate. How her nose would crinkle, smile going wide when she tasted something she was really enjoying. How her mouth would twitch when she smelled things. “You understand now why we wouldn't eat your food?”

Kaylee smiled as she rolled her eyes, “I cooked that meal.”

He clocked her nose twitch, noting it for later. “You did? Is that a preview of my future? Because if it is, I will prepare my own mating meal and just have you serve it."

Her jaw fell open before she threw a grape at him. “You are so mean.” 

“Tasted like shit.”

“Then I guess it's good I didn't actually make it.”

“Thank the Mother. I was concerned for my stomach." Kaylee smiled before leaning in to kiss bis cheek. "

Your nose twitches when you lie.” He watched her face fall slightly. “I noticed it when you told Feyre you would be okay after that first dinner. Then again, when she left after the first meeting. You also dance when you eat. When you sleep, your legs move until you find the perfect spot for them.”

Kaylee felt herself flushing, hearing all his little observations of her smallest habits, and Azriel smirked before he continued. “You whisper when you read, sounding out each word until you know you're correct. That's how we realized you couldn't read. You braid your hair when you get nervous. Rhys found that one for me as he was teaching you. You do all these simple little things that make me believe you are the most beautiful precious thing.” 

He grabbed her hands, holding them in his own. “I am sorry.” She nodded, brows raising to indicate to continue. He noted that as well, predicted this would not be his last apology to his mate. “I allowed myself to put duty before you, and it put us in a situation where you felt I was someone you could no longer trust. Rhysand and I have discussed his part in this, and he will apologize later, but my part hurt you more.” 

Kaylee felt herself losing her will to hold on to what little anger she had as he moved, kneeling before her. “I am sorry I was ever in her room. I am sorry I was too shocked to leave. I am sorry I did not speak with you right away that morning.”

“It's okay.” She could hardly blink before he kneeled for her. “Az-”

“It's not okay, Kaylee.” He listened to her heart as he touched her lower thighs. “I hurt you. I failed to protect you. I failed you as your mate.”

“Azriel-”

“Let me finish.” He brushed the tears falling on her face and sighed. “My job as your mate is to ensure you feel loved, that you are safe, and that you know we are equals in everything. I have allowed myself to be pulled away from you, and you needed me much more than your sisters did, didn't you?”

Kaylee looked to the ceiling, the door, anywhere but the male who she knew could feel every raw emotion she had. He squeezed her thighs softly, bringing her back to him. “Your silence is enough of an answer for me to know I have failed you. If you believe I am worthy of a third chance, I will not fail you again. I will be a male worthy of your love.” She was silent, too stunned to speak. “Kaylee, my love, please.”

Kaylee had to admit, Azriel looked pretty on his knees. He looked pretty begging for forgiveness over something that he didn't do. Over something she was learned was planned by her own sisters. 

Azriel kissed her palms, holding her hands so tightly it was as if he feared she'd disappear like the wind. "Whatever I have to do, whatever you need me to be, whatever you need. I will do anything to be worthy of holding you again. Kaylee, please." 

Kaylee just sighed, cupping his cheek as she did and stared into those desperate hazel eyes. “We have two weeks to put a strong united front.” He nodded in agreement, but his brows knit in confusion over the statement. “I want to also have a better relationship with you within two weeks. Just to shove it to Eris. But that also means you have to allow me to do something first.” He jumped her without hesitation, crashing her lips to his and delighting in her laughter. 

He would give Kaylee the world, live and breathe solely for the purpose of her happiness, and now he had to prove it.

Dinner that night was silent as Kaylee watched Elain watching Azriel. He had not left Kaylee's side since long slow kisses were shared in her room. They had only stopped when Rhys and Feyre came, knocking on the door after their late breakfast. The Lord and Lady laughed as Kaylee answered the door, hair a tangled mess from Azriel's hands while he laid panting on her bed in a state of bliss. 

He had not even left her as Rhysand trained her powers, watching as she called forth every beast and creature in her collection and communicated with them. Her powers had grown quickly, almost too quickly. The warning was still visible on her discolored fingers.

Kaylee had access to levels of magic that had not been granted since the first fae, levels that were hand given out by the Gods to their chosen few and carrying along those bloodlines in the rarest form. Lucien's warning rang in his and Rhysand's head, a warning of the former tamer who turned more beast than fae before walking off into the forest to never been seen again. 

It festered in the thoughts of both males as they communicated silently, involving Amren as they all looked to the youngest sister's discolored fingertips. It's as if the magic I'd eating at her body, Amren was studying her like a hawk. I will look into the Books.

Kaylee cut into her potato, smiling slightly as Azriel traded her steamed vegetables for the serving of meat she had not touched. “Kaylee, we're going to have to find a way to supplement proteins in your diet.”

Nesta shook her head and spoke softly, “She will get over it.” Nesta had been Kaylee's first fight since learning the truth. Her oldest sister had folded immediately. All cattiness out of her body as soon as they were alone together. Broken together.

And Nesta was broken. A simple fact Kaylee had known for a while. Her oldest sister had not thought of the consequences. She had just wanted Kaylee to hurt as much as she was, and watching her thrive, watching her grow, it had been too much. Kaylee allowed Nesta to hold her to whisper each apology. An apology for not protecting her, for what happened to them, for failing as a sister, and Kaylee accepted each one. It was a side of Nesta reserved only for Kaylee. The side of Nesta she told Cassian about and prayed had not been stolen from them. 

Nesta smiled to Kaylee, “She did this even when we were-” the sentence trailed off with the fond memory. “Azriel, the earring you bought Kaylee are lovely.”

“They are, aren't they?” Rhys moved to brush blonde hair behind a pointed ear. “They work well with the sapphires.” Small diamond twinkled next to the earring Azriel had given her before the Cauldron, sparkling in the light and showing off her newest piercing. 

Azriel maintained his mask, but moved a hand to her thigh under the table. “Only the best for my mate.” 

“And if she doesn't actually want you?” The question hung in the air. “Or if you don't truly want her? You two are forced together. Do you not deserve a choice, Azriel?"

“Elain,” Lucien's warning was a whisper. “Thread carefully.”

Lucien watched as the young Archeron put her silverware down. He watched her take out those mentioned earrings as everything paused as Feyre moved closer to Rhysand and away from Elain. 

“Mother fuck!” Cassian jumped back as Kaylee jumped Elain and chaos ensued. Nesta was the first to her two younger sisters, trying to pull the small wild animal that had taken Kaylee's place off of Elain as Mor and Amren watched with amused smiles. Rhys was next, touching Nesta's shoulder, stating he would handle it, only to be met with a well placed elbow from the now smirking eldest sister.

Azriel and Lucien stared at each other, both rapidly motioning for the other to do something as Kaylee landed a solid punch on Elain's shoulder. "You first. I insist," Lucien motioned towards them. "I already am missing one eye. I would like to keep the other." It was instantly noted by all in the room how the youngest sister was refusing to truly hurt Elain, to damage her more as tears of frustration and anger poured down Kaylee's face.

It was Cassian who finally took the youngest, throwing her over her shoulder and leaving the room with her. Kaylee watched each of his graceful steps, knowing where they were going as she clung to his leathers crying. He sunk her into the training ring, stepping back a few feet before getting into a stance and nodding. 

He braced himself for her sloppy attacks, knowing more than anything to cover his face, but knowing this was nothing. This was nothing compared to her anger when she first woke up. The only difference between the Kaylee before him and the one who begged to be trained was precision. He saw his opening, grabbing her by her waist and pulling her back to his chest. “Breathe, Kaylee.” He kissed the back of her head as her thrashing stopped. “Just breathe.” 

She could not see Cassian as the sobs slowed. She could not see the concern on his face as he looked to the skies.

Flying there in its full glory, circling above them like a predator searching for prey, was her drake, and Cassian was just hoping he, and no one in Velaris, was about to be it's next meal.

@impossibelle @luvmoo @wallacewillow0773638 @nightless

Bound by Fate:

@cat-or-kitten @knmendiola @holb32

@mis-lil-red @minakay @whatsupb18 @deeshag @justdreamstars @pyrostatic @acourtofmarvels @no1massassin @dream-alittlebiggerdarling @acourtofbatboydreams @mich0731 @thelov3lybookworm @going-through-shit

@coralseacourt @snoopyspace @tothestarsandwhateverend @st4r-girl-official @brieflyclassymortal @nickishadow139 @julesofvolterra @isa1b2h3 @awkward-mystic-beauty @12358 @throneofsmut @inloveallthetime @throneofsapphics @hnnybee0 @bigcreatorwombatdreamer @vermillionwinter @mybestfriendmademe @mrstepes @darling006 @mich0731 @wallacewillow0773638 @hnyclover

[jungkookjeon0007]

Nights in Vegas | CH. 11 (JJK FF)

☆ summary: When Olivia flies to Las Vegas for her first ever BTS concert w/ her best friend, she was expecting to make lots of unforgettable memories... What she wasn't expecting was to end up with the lead singer, Jeon Jungkook, knocking on her hotel room door only to find her in nothing but a towel. What will happen when the golden maknae wants to see her again? Will it lead to heartbreak, or a promising future for them both?

☆ pairing(s): jungkook x olivia.

☆ ratings: (18+) for detailed sex scenes + harsh language.

☆ genre: smut, angst, fluff.

☆ word count: 4.26k.

☆☆☆☆☆☆

Morning of the Concert.

The members have all been working double time to get ready for tonight's first show, however, two of them in particular were also making sure to spend long nights with both Olivia and Lacie. The boys had been up since 5 am and since today was so important, everyone is busy with preparations. There were last minute wardrobe checks to be done, run throughs of the choreography for each of the songs being performed, and a soundcheck 2 hours before the concert would begin. The members were exhausted, but love what they do so they are pushing through regardless of exhaustion.

. . .

[Olivia's POV]

I stayed the night with Jungkook in his room as Lacie had Hobi in ours per usual. I was sleeping soundly when all of a sudden, the alarm began to sound throughout the room. I grunted as I rolled over to shut it off and as I looked at the alarm, it read 9:45 am.

Shit! We slept in!

I quickly ran down to my room because I knew Lacie was still asleep and used my key card to get in, "LACIE WAKE UP!" I threw a pillow at her face as she started to move around and grunt.

"IT IS 9:45 am! WE ARE GOING TO BE LATE FOR OUR APPOINTMENTS!!!" I yelled as her eyes popped up and she sat straight up in the bed.

I immediately went into the bathroom and after taking the fastest shower of my life, went to my suitcase to pull out the first outfit I could find which was a white t-shirt and black leggings. I needed to at least make this look like I tried, so I tied a knot in my shirt and paired it with my brand new blue Jean jacket and silver slip on Vans.

Next, I needed to do something with my wild and crazy hair, so as Lacie was picking out her outfit, I went back to the bathroom and put my hair in a simple but cute pony tail then started on my makeup. I was aiming for all things quick and easy and went with a natural look.

Once I was all finished, I took a quick look in the mirror and was impressed at how good I did in the short amount of time I had. Walking back into the bedroom, Lacie was finishing up with her outfit and coincidentally, it was similar to mine. Black leather leggings, converses, and a comfy shirt all paired with a jean jacket.

Great minds must think alike.

. . .

[Author POV]

The two friends made it to their first appointment with only 2 minutes to spare. They walked in and the employees grabbed each of them to take over to the massage chairs that had jets for pedicures. As they sat down and got comfortable, Olivia and Lacie's phones received text messages simultaneously.

Shooting each other a confused look, they checked their phones:

Jhope 😎: Hey hey, is everyone here?

Lacie 💗: Yep. I'm here!

Olivia 🌼: Yes sir. I am here also! 👋🏼

Jhope 😎: Ok, perfect. But, we're missing one more person. 🤔

Jk 🐰🖤: Oh, yes hyung I'm here. I just thought you were referring to the girls, sorry. lol

Jhope 😎: I wanted to make this group chat so JK and I could ask you both something together.

Lacie 💗: Okay, what is it?

Jk 🐰🖤: Well, hyung and I were talking..... after the show we want to take you both out for some dinner. We wanted to see if you would like to go on another double date with us. We really enjoyed that when we did it the first time because it was so much fun.

Olivia 🌼: If Lace is okay with it, I am perfectly okay with another double date. It was a lot of fun the first time and we all haven't been on another for a few days so I think it will be great. 😊

Jhope 😎: Yay, that's one! How about it Lace, wanna go to dinner with us?

Lacie 💗: Well of course I'd love to come on a double date! Sorry I didn't respond right away, I got lost in this massage chair. 🙌🏼😩

Jk 🐰🖤: Umm, massage chair? What the heck are you two doing at 10:30 am in massage chairs? 😂😂

Olivia 🌼: 😂😂 we are at the nail salon getting mani pedis before the concert. We have a few appointments today actually. 😊

Jhope 😎: Ahhh, ok. Well go have fun and relax, we will see you both later. One of the security guards will come and find you 10 minutes or so before the show ends and bring you backstage.

Lacie 💗: Okay! Sounds like a plan. We will see you guys in a bit. Have a good day Hobi!! 😘

Jhope 😎: You have a good day too sunshine. ♥️

Jk 🐰🖤: Eww, get a room. 🤪 Since they can be sappy, we will too.. I hope you have such a great day baby and I cannot wait to see you tonight. ♥️

Olivia 🌼: Aww you're the sweetest. 🥺 I cannot wait to see you either Kookie. I wish you the best of luck on your concert! All 7 of you will do amazing! 💗

Lacie put her phone down and turned to find Olivia who was already looking at her.

"What is it?" Lacie asked as she laid her head back on the chair.

"Nothing, I just think we are so lucky to have them."

"But?" Lacie asked, knowing she wasn't telling her everything.

Olivia continued, "I just hate that this will end in the next week or so. I don't want this to be over."

Olivia's smile slowly faded as she glanced down at her hands in her lap.

"You honestly never know what could happen between now and then, Liv. Just don't think too much about it right now and enjoy the present moments. Okay?" Lacie gave her a warm smile as she smiled back nodding. "Okay, I will."

By the time they were finished with conversing, it was time for them to move over to the other side of the salon to get their manicures.

. . .

[Olivia's POV]

We got back to the hotel around 1:30 pm with our fresh sets of mani pedis, hair done, and the cutest outfits to wear for the concert.

We both sleepy and decided that since the concert did not start until 6pm, we wanted to lie down and take a nap for about an hour or so. We crawled into our beds and as soon as my head hit the pillow and my eyes shut, my phone vibrated with an incoming call from Jungkook.

"Hello?" I asked in my sleepy voice.

"Hey, what are you doing right now?" He asked in a hurried voice.

"I am just getting back to my room and was going to take a nap for a bit, what are you doing and why do you sound out of breath?"

The other end of the phone went silent for a second, then he spoke again. "I am coming to your room, I'm so sleepy and want your cuddles."

I sat up confused. "I thought that you had rehearsals and a busy schedule today?"

"We did, but they sent us back to our rooms to get some rest before tonight and I wanted to spend that time with you."

His voice brought me from my thoughts. "Liv? Liv, are you there?"

"Oh shit, yes I'm sorry. You can absolutely come to my room I would love to cuddle while we take a nap."

I could hear him smiling through the phone, "Ok, I will be there in 5 minutes."

The call disconnected and I sighed heavily, lying in my bed staring at the ceiling as I listened to Lacie snore.

»» 5 minutes later.

There was a soft knock on my door and when I got up to open it, I was met with the most beautiful smiling boy standing in front of me.

"Hi beautiful." He said as he smirked at me.

"Hello Kookie, come on in." I smiled, stepping aside as he walked into my room.

As I shut the door and locked it, he turned to me, wrapping his arms around my waist with our foreheads touching. He closed his eyes, sighing in contentment, "I have missed you so fucking much. It feels so good to have you in my arms."

He kissed my nose and I smiled, loving every second as I ran my hands through his hair like always. "I have missed you too, so much. Would you like to get in the bed and cuddle, we are both so exhausted and definitely need sleep."

He lifted his head and looked at me with a smile on his face, then whispered. "How did I get so lucky to find you?" I smiled at him and look down at the floor while biting my lip.

He continued in his soft voice careful not to wake Lacie, "Of course I want to cuddle and fall asleep with you. But..." He grabbed my chin softly, making me look at him. "If you keep biting your lip like that, I won't be able to hold myself back from doing more than just sleeping."

Silence.

I've never heard him talk like that, but shit was it not the hottest thing I've ever heard. I could tell my face was crimson red because of how he was smiling so mischievously. I cleared my throat, immediately changing the subject, "Ahem right, let's go take a nap then shall we?"

He chuckled turning around to follow me, "Whatever you want baby. Your wish is my command."

[thedreamworldlibrary]

Nothing Bad Happens Chap. 10- Founder Tension: Memories

Here is part 2 of NBH: Founder Tension!

Now, I know I’ve been writing longer and longer chapters, however this chapter when I wrote it as Chap. 9 was almost 25 pages long, hence why this one had to have been split. I don’t mind it, it’s just when I feel a certain story could be split, then this is the chance for me to do so.

Big thanks to @gigilefache for being my beta reader!!

Enjoy!

Dreamworld closed and everyone went home for the night. Meanwhile at Sara’s apartment, Lewis and Oliver were packing up their stuff, deciding to leave in the morning and stay at their own places.

“Well, I’ll be staying with Eric,” Oliver said, not looking at Lewis.

“And I’ll be with Wiatt,” Lewis replied, doing the same thing. He finished packing grabbed his stuff and brought it to the living room. He sighed and laid down on the couch, tired from the day.

“So you're just gonna leave me here?” Sara asked.

“Yes, you can handle things on your own,”  Lewis replied.

“Fine. If you or Oliver don’t wanna come back to the facility then that’s fine with me too.” Sara said before slamming the door.

Lewis sighed. In all honesty, he wanted to talk it out with his friends, but this argument was the worst out of all of them. Even if he did apologize, Sara would still follow her pride and Oliver is still hurt for the stuff he said. 

Grabbing his phone, Lewis looks through photos he took with his friends from high school all the way to their latest hang out a week ago, at a local karaoke bar the trio go to in secret. Tears came out from his eyes, as Lewis looked through every photo.

In his room, Oliver was staring at the ceiling before turning to the empty bed next to him where Lewis slept. Oliver sighed, he too wanted to apologize, but with how his “friends” are they probably would never forgive him. He turned away from the other bed and tried to sleep.

Sara on the other hand, felt her pride wind down as she lay down on her bed. Her mind was telling her to apologize to her friends. She desperately wanted to, but anxiety was on her mind thinking her friends hated her now.

“It’s all my fault this happened.” Sara cried. “I should’ve never snapped at them. Now I lost them.” She pulled the blankets close to her as she softly cried.

A loud knock woke Lewis up. The founder groaned as he slowly opened his eyes. From outside he saw it appeared to be about 6 am, which was very early to wake up. The knocking continued, and Lewis sighed, putting his glasses on and walking to the door.

“Alright. I’m coming!” Lewis groaned. He opened the door to see a panicked Eric. “Eric, what are you doing here?”

“Lewis! Oh, you're awake! Listen, did Carly come by here?” Eric asked.

“No, I just woke up,” Lewis replied. “Why is something wrong?”

By that point, Oliver and Sara had also woken up and went to the door as well. “Eric. What’s wrong?” Oliver asked.

“Carly! She went missing!”

“What?!” The founder trio exclaimed.

“She said she was going on her daily skating route with Ben and Liz, but only those two came back and not Carly,” Eric exclaimed.

The founders looked at each other with worry. Out of the three of them, Sara was worried the most.

“I-I’ll go find her!” Oliver exclaimed, running to get changed. However, Sara grabbed him from the back of his pajamas which slammed him to the ground.

“Oh no! I’ll find her!” Sara exclaimed.

“Hey! I opened the door first darling, so I should find her!” Lewis exclaimed.

The three argued about why they should find Carly over the other, which made Eric sigh. “I don’t care who finds her!” Eric yelled. The founder trio turned to their former teacher. “Look, I just want her to be found safe and sound. Please.”

The founder trio looked at each other and glared, “I guess I’ll put aside the argument for Carly’s sake.” Lewis spoke up.

“I agree,” Oliver replied, not glancing at his former friend.

“We do this and then we separate,” Sara said.

“Fair.” Lewis and Oliver replied. The three went to get ready and dressed in casual clothes rather than work clothes.

“Don’t worry Eric, we'll bring her home safely,” Lewis said before he and the trio left to find the young girl. 

The trio was going to enter Sara’s car to find the young girl, but the female founder found a note and a red string tied to her car.

“What’s this?” Sara asked. She grabbed the note and read it out loud, “to the founders of Dreamworld. I have captured the girl associated with your company. If you want to find her, follow this red string around town. In the end, you’ll find her safe and sound. If you make it at sundown.” Once finishing the note, Sara looked up at Lewis and Oliver, who were in disbelief.

“Well, that sounds ridiculous,” Lewis said. “If anything, someone wants us to find her, together.”

Sara rolled her eyes and crumpled the note, “Yeah, like it will work!” She exclaimed. She opened her car door and went to start the car, only to see her car was out of gas.

Oliver knew that sound and sighed. “Let me guess, you forgot to put gas in?”

“Afraid so,” Sara answered. She then got out of the car and removed the string only to see it was a long trail. “Well let’s walk on foot then.”

Lewis and Oliver nodded and followed the string in hopes of finding Eric’s daughter.

Eric watched everything and gave a small smile. Once they were gone, Eric grabbed his phone and called someone named Ladybug. “This is Mantis to Ladybug, the targets took the bait!”

“Ladybug here,” Carly spoke on the other end. “Twin 1 and Twin 2 are with the Triple J’s using as much string and photos as they can.” 

Eric chuckled, “That’s good. Also, why do we need code names?” He asked.

“It’s fun! And that Ribbondancer and Ben said for a plan like this we need code names.” Carly answered.

“Fair enough.”

With the Founder Trio, the three continued to follow the string. The walk was silent between the three of them, not glancing or saying a word to each other. There were times they wanted to say something but kept their mouth shut.

“What the?” Lewis asked as he saw the string stopped at a brown bench that faced the playground at a local park. “This is the bench Sara and I would usually sit on after school together.”

“Oh yeah. You’d take photos or make video diaries for your therapist here.” Sara added remembering the times she’d photo-bomb her friend or the two eating ice cream as they chatted about school. 

She missed those days…

“Hey look at this,” Oliver spoke up. The three saw a photograph taped on top of a string. Lewis removed it and his eyes widened as it showed a photo of him and Sara when they were in middle school.

“Hey, I remember this photo,” Sara spoke up. “That was the day you came out to me.”

Lewis blinked as he remembered that day…

Flashback 10 years ago…

It was early in the evening, and Lewis was sitting on the bench crying. He texted Sara to come see him at the park at their usual hangout spot. However, Lewis felt his anxiety kick in and he was scared of what he wanted to tell Sara.

“This was a bad idea.” He said. “She’s gonna hate me, she’s gonna leave me…”

“Lewis!”

Lewis gasped as he saw Sara staring at him worriedly. “S-Sara!” He exclaimed. Quickly, he wiped the tears from his eyes.

“A-Are you okay?” Sara asked.

“Y-Yeah. I’m fine darling.” Lewis lied.

Sara knew her friend wasn’t fine and sat next to him. “Why are you crying?” She asked.

Lewis sniffled as he turned away from the girl, “I-it’s nothing.” He lied.

“Lewis, you're my best-er…friend.” Sara corrected herself. She wasn’t sure if Lewis was her best friend yet. He’s been her first, and only friend for three months. “You can tell me anything.”

Lewis turned to face his friend and let out a shaky breath. “Just don’t freak out when I tell you.” He said. “Just don’t leave me.” That is what he wanted to say.

“I-I won’t. Just tell me what’s going on?” Sara asked, now feeling scared herself. “D-Don’t tell me you don’t wanna be friends anymore.” She thought to herself.

Lewis swallowed as he opened his mouth, but quickly closed it. Tears started to come back in his eyes. “S-Sara. I-I…” He took a deep breath before letting it out, “I’m gay!” He blurted out before sobbing. The boy pulled his knees close to his chest and put his head down.

Sara blinked in confusion. She felt relieved that Lewis didn’t want to end their friendship, but she wasn’t disgusted by it. Her caretaker was non-binary and her music teacher was a lesbian.

“Lewis…” Sara spoke up, reaching out to her friend.

“Look! If you want to leave me, that's fine! I’ve had enough people leaving me already!” Lewis sobbed.

Sara stopped as her eyes widened. She would never leave Lewis over something like this. “Lewis. I’m not gonna leave you.”

Lewis opened his eyes as he looked up at his friend. He sniffled as he wiped the tears from his eyes. “Y-Your not?”

Sara shook her head. “Why would I?”

Lewis put his legs down and sighed, “Well, first off my dad.” He started. “The day I told him, he got mad at me and called me a disappointment.”

Sara was horrified hearing that Lewis’s own father called him that. It was the first she heard about Lewis’s dad as he or his mother never spoke about him.

“He and mom argued a lot and he wanted to get rid of me. Saying he didn’t want a son like me and would try again for a “perfect” child.” Lewis continued. “Luckily, my mom was appalled and we left him. However, that didn’t end there…anytime I told people they would hate me for being gay or just leave me because they didn’t want to be around me. Then I met you and we became close friends, and I didn’t want to keep it a secret any longer.”

Sara was surprised, she could relate to Lewis being outcasted. However, it wasn’t worse than what she did to her tormentors, but still, it surprised her that Lewis was also a victim of bullying like her. She put her arm over her friend, which surprised him, and rubbed his arm.

“Lewis, after what I went through back in elementary school. I would never bully someone over anything.” Sara started. “I would never hurt or leave you. You're my best friend Lewis Bright.”

Lewis’s eyes widened as he looked up at his best friend. He looked into her eyes and saw she was being honest with what she said. Lewis sniffled and wiped away the remaining tears from his eyes. With a smile, he pulled Sara into a hug. “Thank you, darling! You're my best friend too.” He replied.

Sara was surprised as Lewis hugged her, and smiled, feeling her eyes starting to tear up. She hugged Lewis tight, not wanting to let go. The two let go of the hug and smiled. Lewis felt better and the two friends got off the bench.

“Sara,” Lewis spoke up. He took out his phone and went to the camera app to take a selfie. “Say cheese!” He then snapped the photo before showing it to his best friend.

“Oh picture perfect,” Sara commented.

“It sure is, darling.” Lewis agreed. The two laughed a bit before Sara asked her best friend a question.

“Hey, wanna have dinner at my place?” Sara asked.

Lewis nodded, “Of course darling.” He replied. The two friends started to walk back to Sara’s house, as they did Sara had to bring up something to her best friend.

“You know it’s a good thing you're gay,” Sara said.

“Why is that?” Lewis asked.

“Because everyone at school teases me thinking you're my boyfriend! Which, by the way, I see you as my best friend, not boyfriend.” She exclaimed, giving her friend a playful shove.

Lewis laughed as he playfully shoved his friend back, causing his friend to laugh. The two continued to playfully shove one another until they got to Sara’s house.

Flashback ends

“That day, I told you everything, darling,” Lewis said, his eyes starting to glisten with tears.

Sara gave a small smile as she rubbed her arm. “Y-yeah.”

The two gave a small smile to each other, but quickly turned away glaring at each other, still mad about the other. “C-Come on, we must find Carly,” Lewis said, putting the photo in his pocket.

“R-Right,” Sara replied.

The three continued to follow the string from the park to the local ice cream shop. Oliver recognized the ice cream shop as the one he took his siblings to all the time. There the trio saw another photo on the window and Oliver grabbed it.

“Hey, remember when Ben and Liz celebrated their birthday and no one came?” Oliver asked.

“Oh yeah, and last minute you invited us, Eric and Carly,” Lewis replied.

“It was also the first time we met your siblings.” Sara pointed out.

Flashback: Freshman Year around Springtime

Ben and Liz sat at the ice cream shop, wearing their birthday hats as they waited for their guest to arrive. Ben felt disappointed the people they invited didn’t show up, he didn’t know why, while Liz was optimistic someone would come.

“I can’t believe it! Mommy and Daddy forgot again, and now everyone in our school forgot!” Ben cried.

“We didn’t,” Lewis said.

Ben and Liz looked up to see Lewis and Sara come in with gifts in hand. The two were confused as they had never seen these two before.

“Who are you?” Liz asked.

“Well, I figured if no one showed up. I ended up inviting my two friends from school to your birthday.” Oliver explained. “Liz, Ben, this is Lewis Bright and Sara Covetman, my two best friends.” Oliver put his arms around his friends.

Liz and Ben looked at each other and got up from their seats and went over to the two teenagers. “N-Nice to meet you,” Liz said, feeling shy around the two.

“Nice to meet you too darling,” Lewis replied. He then handed a bag to her. “This is for you and your brother.”

Liz’s eyes widened. She was very excited to open her gift.

“Uh uh. What do you say?” Oliver asked.

Liz chuckled in embarrassment, “Thank you.” 

“You’re welcome.”

Liz and Ben went to open their gifts and their eyes widened to see they got cat plushies with red button eyes. Liz decided to keep the black and white one with a black bowtie, while Ben kept the pink and lilac one with a red bow tie.

“So cool!” Ben beamed.

“Like it?” Lewis asked. “I won some plushies at this local arcade I frequented a few years back, and I figured you guys would like them.”

Liz and Ben smiled and ran to hug the boy who hugged them back. “Thank you, Lewis!” The twins beamed.

“Anytime darlings.”

“Wait till you see my gift!” Sara beamed holding two small boxes. The twins took the small box and opened it revealing to be beaded friendship bracelets. 

Liz’s was blue, purple, and white with candy-shaped beads, and a blue lollipop polymer clay charm in the center.

Ben’s bracelet was pink, purple, and white also with candy-shaped beads and a pink lollipop clay charm in the center.

“Miss Sara, did you make this?” Liz asked, looking at the older girl. 

Sara nodded. “My caretaker got me into crafting as a pastime from stress.” She explained.

Liz and Ben put on their bracelets and smiled at the older girl. They too ran to her and hugged her. “Thank you, Miss Sara!” Ben and Liz beamed.

Sara chuckled and hugged the twins back. “You two are sweet!” She replied.

Oliver and Lewis smiled seeing how good Sara was with the twins.

Soon the door to the ice cream shop opened and Eric and a 7-year-old Carly. The two each held a gift in hand.

“Mr. Gale?” Oliver exclaimed. “What are you doing here?”

“Well, I overheard your conversation yesterday during class, and I figured Carly and I would come by and celebrate.” Eric explained.

“I gave him the address to this place. You’re welcome.” Sara beamed.

Oliver smiled and let out a chuckle.

“I’m guessing these are your twin siblings, Benjamin and Elizabeth?” Eric asked.

“Just Ben.” Ben corrected.

“Just Liz.” Liz corrected.

“Sorry. Well, Carly and I got you both something.” Eric said, handing the gift boxes to Liz and Ben.

When Liz got her gift box from Carly, she saw the girl had a bracelet made of flowers. “That looks pretty.” She commented.

“Thank you,” Carly replied.

Liz chuckled and went to open her gift, and her eyes widened when she saw she got one of those flocked animal playsets. She’d been wanting one forever, but her parents always said no.

“How did you know I wanted this?” Liz asked.

“Well…a certain older brother hinted it to us,” Eric answered as he eyed his student.

Oliver blushed in embarrassment letting out a chuckle.

Ben went and opened his gift and saw it was a plush of a rabbit. He then pressed the button and saw the rabbit give a creepy face. He let out a chuckle, “Guess Oliver told you I wanted this too!” He beamed.

“I thought Oliver was joking, but no he says you love creepy stuff,” Eric explained.

Ben and Liz looked at their older brother and smiled. Bits of tears appeared in their eyes, “thank you Oliver.” Ben said, hugging his brother.

“This is the best birthday ever!” Liz exclaimed, hugging her brother as well.

Oliver smiled and hugged them back, “Anything for you two.”

Flashback ends:

“You truly are a good brother, darling,” Lewis said.

Oliver smiled, “T-thanks Lewis.”

Lewis and Oliver realized they were both smiling, but it was hard to glare at one another, instead, guilt rushed through their faces. Even Sara felt guilty for being so rough on her friends.

“Come on, we need to find Carly,” Sara said, continuing to find the young girl. Lewis and Oliver nodded and held on to the photos as they continued to follow the string.

While following the string, Lewis, Oliver, and Sara found more photos of their time growing up and hanging out together. It made them share a laugh, but not before frowning thinking they’ll never have this kind of friendship again.

After grabbing another photo of the trio celebrating Sara’s birthday, Olive froze seeing two of their co-workers; Lisa and Pen.

“Lisa?! Pen?!” Oliver exclaimed.

Lewis and Sara turned to see their two co-workers, as the latter froze and turned as they ran off. Lewis, Sara and Oliver looked at each other and realized a conspiracy was going on.

Meanwhile, Carly, Ben, Liz, and the Walker Triplets finished the last of the string and tied it up to a tree before running back to Wiatt. He and the rest of the group were back at the park and setting up a surprise for Lewis and the others.

“Okay, I finished the string and placed enough photos for them as a distraction,” Carly reported to the mechanic.

“Perfect!” Wiatt exclaimed. “We’re just about done, and if anything Pen and Lisa would distract Lewis and his friends if anything.”

“We’re done here, Wiatt!” Eric exclaimed.

“They're gonna love it!” Franny sang.

Wiatt gave a thumbs up as rustling was heard in the bushes. The group turned to see Pen and Lisa coming in and trying to catch their breath.

“We need to hide now!” Pen exclaimed.

“They are coming and I think they saw us,” Lisa explained.

“Quick hide!” Wiatt exclaimed to everyone as they hid in the bushes and trees.

Soon enough, Lisa and Pen were right as Lewis and his friends came by here. “Uh…could’ve sworn Pen and Lisa passed by here,” Oliver said.

“And why did the string lead us to some picnic?” Sara asked.

“I don’t know?” Lewis replied, shrugging.

The trio saw there was a picnic blanket on the ground and went to sit down, tired of all the walking. “Well, we made it to the end, but no Carly,” Sara said.

“Yeah, was Carly and whoever took her supposed to be here?” Oliver asked.

Lewis’s eyes widened as he glared knowing what this was. “Okay, I think I know what’s going on here.” He said. Sara and Oliver turned to their friend. “I’m guessing Wiatt and the others were trying to make us remember the day we were friends.”

“Best friends.” Sara corrected.

“Same thing!” Lewis snapped.

Before an argument could happen again Oliver spotted a photo on the tree. “H-Hey guys.” He spoke up.

“What?!” Sara and Lewis shouted. However, they eased up when they saw the photo. The three went over to it and their eyes widened recognizing the photo.

It was the three of them outside at night smiling and laughing.

Flashback: Freshman Year during Autumn

The trio were outside of Lewis’s house lying down on a picnic blanket stargazing. The trio were having a sleepover and had a night planned with games, and movies, and Lewis decided to add stargazing to the list as the two hadn’t done so.

“Wow, it’s beautiful,” Sara commented on seeing so many stars.

“Isn’t it?” Lewis replied. “One day I want to move from the town into the woods so I can see all the stars, not just from my yard, but all the stars painted in the sky.”

Sara chuckled, “Is that why you want to live in the woods?” She asked.

“Indeed,” Lewis replied as the two shared a laugh.

Oliver smiled and chuckled, he wasn’t sure what to say as he had just recently befriended Lewis and Sara, and he didn’t know them as much.

“Are you enjoying the stars, Oliver?” Sara asked.

“Huh?” Oliver asked. “I- oh yeah! I am!” He replied, chuckled.

Lewis and Sara smiled glad their new friend was enjoying his time. Soon something caught the corner of Lewis’s eye. He turned and saw shooting stars, he gave a wide smile.

“Darlings look!” Lewis exclaimed.

Sara and Oliver turned and were in awe of the shooting stars. The three watched in excitement until something clicked in Sara’s mind.

“Hey, we should make wishes!” Sara exclaimed, putting her hands together and closing her eyes as she made her wish.

Lewis nodded and put his hands together as he made his wish. Oliver looked at his two friends and did the same thing.

Sara was done making her wish and turned to her friends. “Lewis,” she spoke up. Lewis opened his eyes and turned to his friend. “Is the whole if I tell you my wish it won’t come true saying true?”

“I don’t know darling,” Lewis answered. “But it wouldn’t hurt sharing it.”

Sara smiled, “Well I wished Dreamworld would be a success!” She exclaimed.

“I wish the boy I’ve been talking to would date me,” Lewis revealed.

The two turned to Oliver, who opened his eyes and looked at his friends. He made his wish but felt embarrassed sharing it. “W-Well…” Oliver started, still feeling nervous about his wish.

“If you don’t want to tell us, that’s fine,” Sara reassured him.

“N-No I want to say it!” Oliver exclaimed. He took a deep breath and looked at his two friends. “I wish the three of us are best friends forever.”

Lewis and Sara’s eyes widened at their new friend’s wish. Oliver’s eyes widened as he blushed in embarrassment as he admitted his wish in front of his friends.

“I-I mean! I know we're friends, but I never had friends before except my twin siblings. Y-You guys are the first best friends I ever had and I…and I…” Oliver sobbed. He just admitted everything in front of his two friends, and the anxiety overwhelmed him.

Then, Oliver felt two pairs of arms hug him, stopping him from crying. He looked and saw Sara and Lewis hugging him tight.

“Darling, since you joined the group you’ve always been our best friend,” Lewis said.

Oliver’s eyes widened.

“The three of us have all been through the same thing. Being alone, and just felt like an outcast.” Sara added. “That’s why our goal for Dreamworld is to never have anyone go through what we went through.”

Oliver sniffled and wiped the tears from his eyes and smiled. “T-Thanks guys, you two mean so much to me, and I’m glad you're both my best friends!” He beamed hugging them tight.

Sara and Lewis chuckled and hugged their friend back. Oliver then smiled and holding his friends pulled them down on the blanket, and they all shared a laugh. While laughing, Lewis grabbed his phone and pressed the camera app before switching the lens to face him and his best friends.

“Okay darlings, say besties!” Lewis beamed.

“Besties!” Sara and Oliver beamed as Lewis took the photo.

End of Flashback

The founder trio had tears in their eyes as they looked at one another. “I-I remember that night.” Lewis whimpered.

“Me too. W-We had a lot of fun, and afterward we became close.” Oliver replied, whimpering too.

Sara couldn’t hold back her tears, as they started to fall from her eyes. “L-Lewis. O-Oliver.” She whimpered. “I-I-I…”

“I’m sorry!” Sara, Lewis, and Oliver apologized at the same time. The three looked up at each other in shock realizing they apologized at the same time.

Sara sighed, deciding to apologize first, “Look I’m sorry for being bossy. I’m sorry for getting upset over your guys having a personal life.” She admitted. “I’ve always had you three and I had no other friends, so seeing you guys dating and hanging out with others makes me feel lonely,” Sara wiped the tears from her eyes before continuing, “and I guess I just missed the times where it was just us.”

Lewis and Oliver looked at each other before giving a smile. “Darling, I know we have personal lives, but that’s not stopping our friendship,” Lewis explained. 

Sara looked up at her friend, sniffling a bit.

“Yeah, I mean we’ll have hangouts together, just promise us you tell us ahead of time instead of surprising us.” Oliver reminded her.

Sara nodded, “I know. I promise.”

“Guess I should say sorry for what I said about both of you.” Lewis started. “Oliver, I’m sorry for what I said about you being shy and reserved about not getting someone. I know for sure there’s someone out there who loves you like how Wiatt loves me.”

Oliver smiled, “Gee, thanks Lewis.” He replied. “And sorry for blaming you for everything you did to Wiatt, Lewis.”

“I forgive you,” Lewis said. “And Sara, I’m sorry for calling you bossy and a bitch.” 

Sara smiled. “It’s alright. I forgive you.” She replied. She then looked at Oliver, “same with you, Oliver..”

“Me too,” Oliver replied.

“Me three,” Lewis replied putting his arm around Oliver.

The three smiled and hugged each other tight. “Let’s not fight like that again.” Oliver reminded them.

“Agreed.” Lewis and Sara replied. The three stayed in that hug till Sara decided to pull her and her friends down into the picnic blanket causing the three to laugh, similar to what they did years ago.

“Awww!”

The Founder Trio turned to Franny and Pen who were in awe at the trio making up like it was a sitcom moment. However, Wiatt and Lisa pulled their two friends down so as to not spoil the moment. The founder trio looked at one another and continued to laugh.

“Alright darlings, you can come out now,” Lewis said.

Wiatt, Pen, Franny, Lisa, Carly, Eric, Ben, Liz, and the Walker Triplets came out of the bushes slowly giving a sheepish smile.

“Guess you figured it out, huh?” Carly asked, rubbing the back of her head. The Founder Trio nodded, which made Carly sigh. “Well, we didn’t like you guys fighting.”

“Yeah, you guys have been through tough situations and we’re able to resolve them, but this.” Eric paused for a bit, “it was like the lifelong friendship you guys had was gone.”

The Founder Trio looked at one another and frowned, feeling guilty.

“Not only that, you were acting up your old ways, Sara.” Wiatt pointed out. This made the female founder guilty.

“I know, and I’m sorry,” Sara said.

Wiatt gave a small smile, knowing Sara’s apology was genuine. “Apology accepted.” He said.

Sara looked up, shocked but gave a smile back.

“By the way, where did you find the photos?” Lewis asked, taking out the other photos from his pocket.

“We went to Sara’s caretaker’s house and they handed us a photo album,” Liz answered.

“We picked the photos that seemed the most fitting and placed them all over town,” Jake added.

The Founder Trio smiled looking at the photos they collected.

“You guys had an amazing life together,” John said, walking over to the trio and looking at the photos.

“Yeah, we did.” Oliver sighed.

“Think you can tell us stories about them?” James asked.

“Of course, darling,” Lewis replied. He and his friends sat down on the picnic blanket with the kids sitting around them, as they told the stories of each photo.

No matter what happens the three would always be best friends, and nothing could ever separate the three.

[starry-hughes]

star’s birthday bash

welcome to my birthday bash! my birthday is thursday, april 18, and i want to celebrate with you guys! down below are a bunch of prompts that i have complied together that you can request blurbs for! i will work through them as fast as possible but i am currently moving apartments and have work as well so please be patient. the prompts are all over the place (fluff, angst, nsfw) so just have fun! thank you for participating!

looking for my navigation page? click here!

you can choose any of the prompts below but i also don’t mind if you have your own prompt you would like to use!

event duration: tuesday, april 16, 2024 - sunday, april 21, 2024 (actual birthday april 18)

prompts:

1. “Well, I’m sorry I fell in love with you, okay? But it happened and I can’t do shit about it.” “You… What?” 

2. “I thought that if I did all of this and came all this way, it would finally click for you."

3. “God how blind can you be?!”

4. “Do you think we could have worked out?”

5. “So… do you actually like me—“ “We have been together for seven years. We’re getting married. What the hell do you think?”

6. “Oh my god, you are such a cuddle bug.”

7. “Are you awake yet?” “No.” “Oh okay, sorry.”

8. “We should probably stop this.” “Yeah…” “We’re not going to though, right?” “Oh absolutely not.”

9. “You’ve been laying on my arm all night and it’s numb.”

10. “Can you please just hug me?”

11. “You’re so pretty when you wake up.”

12. “Hold my hand.” “What?! Why?” “Just do it. Please.”

13. “Here take my jacket.”

14. “You’re going to get shampoo in my eyes.” “Stop being dramatic.”

15. “It’s okay baby, let it out, I’ve got you.”

16. “I don’t know, I just missed you.”

17. “No, come on, don’t cry, I’ll start crying.”

18. “Did you just kiss me to shut me up?” “No?”

19. “Why don’t you just go back to her?” “Who?!”

20. “Why are you so insecure about this?” “Because I don’t want to be used again!”

21. “I won’t tell him if you don’t want me to.”

22. “You’re hurting me.”

23. “Try to stay quiet, okay?”

24. “Stop teasing me so much.”

25. “We are in public!”

26. “Don’t be so rough, I can’t have any marks.”

27. “You’re insufferable.”

28. “I’m sorry if I’m slow with all this, I don’t really know what I’m doing.”

29. “That’s it, fuck.”

30. “Do that again, shit. Just like that.”

31. “Wait- do that again. Please.”

32. “Someone is needy.”

33. “For the last time, I’m not jealous! I just don’t like how she looks at you or texts you or anything!”

34. “My teammates get annoyed because I talk about you so much.”

35. “You sent me inappropriate pictures when I was in public.”

36. “I’m wearing your shirt… is that okay?”

37. “Don’t throw me in the water!”

38. “Can I borrow your hat please? The sun is in my eyes.”

39. “You promised.”

40. “You didn’t love me, did you?”

41. “I didn’t mean to. I was just mad.”

42. “I don’t deserve you.” “Please don’t say that. Why would you even think that for a second?”

43. “Why didn’t you tell me before I got into a relationship with someone else?”

44. “I think I’m in love.” “Congratulations on finally realizing that.”

45. “You have a date? How much did you pay them?”

46. “I thought roses were romantic!” “They have thorns on them still!”

47. “Did you eat today?”

48. “I can’t even argue with you right now when I’m this…” “What? Turned on?”

49. “You’re a dumbass. But you’re my dumbass.”

50. “Are we dating? What are we? I can’t keep playing games with you—“ “I thought we were already dating?”

51. “You didn’t have to do anything for my birthday.” “… but I wanted to.”

52. “This is the best present ever.”

53. “Is it too late for a birthday kiss?”

54. “Hey, no crying on your birthday, please.”

55. “I thought you forgot.” “I could never forget your birthday!”

56. “I would have slept on the floor but you were using me as a pillow.”

57. “The only person I want here is you!”

58. “I didn’t mean to say you aren’t enough.”

59. “Sorry that was my first kiss.” “I could tell.” “…” “I’m kidding!”

60. “If you keep distracting me I won’t get any work done.” “But all I did was look at you?”

61. “I didn’t mean to make you upset.”

62. “Did I scare you? Sweetheart…”

63. “Could we just stay here a while, please?”

64. “Why did you never say anything? Why did I have to find out from someone else?”

65. “You left. And I stayed. You never once looked back to see if I was still there.”

66. “Did I… Did I do something wrong?”

67. “Why won’t you love me back?” “You’re drunk. I’m getting you home.”

68. “You scared the shit out of me, you know that? Calling from a hospital.”

69. “Are we going to talk about it?”

70. “You’re too good for the world.”

71. “Can you kiss it better?”

72. “It’s so hot when you talk like that.”

73. “I’m yours. Only yours.”

74. “Don’t close your eyes baby, look at me.”

75. “Lay down and let me show you what you deserve.”

76. “That— I didn’t know I could make those noises.”

77. “I don’t think I can last longer— fuck, please.”

78. “Do you still hate me?” “Definitely.”

79. “You’re so cute when you’re blushy.”

80. “Don’t be shy baby.”

81. “You can do better than that sweetheart.”

82. “That’s it. Don’t stop baby.”

83. “You’re doing so well.”

84. “Don’t worry. I’d take you out for dinner before I get you for dessert. It’s the polite thing to do.”

85. “You can practice on me.”

86. “What? I don’t like [name].” “Yeah, and I don’t breathe oxygen.”

87. “My parents love you.”

88. “Remember how you always say you love me no matter what?” “Is that a dog?”

89. “Can I call you?”

90. “I guess I’m just scared of losing you.”

91. “It’s only you. It’s always going to be just you.”

92. “How do I look?” “Um. Well. Good?”

93. “It’s raining and I don’t have an umbrella.” “Have my jacket!”

94. “You thought you had to ask to come over?”

95. “One more kiss, please?”

96. “I thought I lost you forever.”

97. “So… care to tell me who that was?”

98. “Alright, dude, back off.”

99. “I love you.”

100. “I hate you.”

[overpoweredcacti]

CME 17x10 thoughts (and prayers)

Jesus Christ I’m finally home after accidentally sabotaging my own morning (okay sabotage may be harsh. I have a job now that I signed all the necessarily paperwork lol but I had to go around the city for hours. This Pacific time Midnight airtime is ridiculous, that’s 9 am for me. By then I usually have to pretend to be a functioning adult human being).

I don’t really do this usually, but it is the finale, so. I will try my hand and liveblogging. This will be long.

Some preliminary thoughts though:

I think Church and Jade both survive and it’s Mila who dies

I just don’t see any of the main cast dying. Maybe Rossi, but this show is attached to its actors so much that this would only happen if Joe wanted out, and I’m not sure I can see that happening?

the last Gold Star Peter B. is most probably Peter Bailey

I don’t trust Phil Coulson the Director

Voit has to die. I think. Narratively he just can’t live. So my guess is that he will be killed (maybe on FBI higher up orders) and it will be framed as a suicide. But the BAU would obvious know that doesn’t match his profile cue S18

Well then.

55 minutes hmm, okay. I thought we would get at least an hour, there’s so much going on.

Connection Lost. For all of them??

20 minutes Rebecca and Garcia has been sitting in that office, waiting. That does wonders for someone’s nerves I bet

needs to reboot the system (“have you tried turning it off and on again?” xd)

I’M sorry they didn’t know the building just fucking exploded? xdxd

also still Minimal Loss vibes

okay but everyone seemed fine on the promo pics (minus Emily) so how if they all exploded

I don’t buy it lol

halluciVoit is back

the team is okay

okay see. how lucky do you have to be though to survive an explosion without a scratch

unless they pull a Dallas and the next 30 minutes is just Dave dying and dreaming shit lol that would be iconic

okay Mila surrendered maybe she’s not dying. But how does Rossi get rid of the head wound?

oooh okay so it is a kidnapping situation. Because Jade still thinks the BAU is in cahoots with Church

“you’ve been charged with pedophilia” love that we are not sugarcoating it lol

OKAY so I didn’t think it would be so abrupt. But okay dude deserved it.

Ooh the shot of the dripping blood as he’s carted away? Brilliant.

are we about to see Emily get yeeted

that was a very mild blast without the sound effects lol

are you taking some of the voltage? that’s..a choice. I’m also unsure if that would even work

again with the camera, literally shaking off the memory how cool

listen I know we are supposed to be scared for Emily but it’s Emily. Not even she looks phased lol

holy shit the writing remembers past events. Unbelievable

okay I was recently talking about Person of Interest so that’s probably why the scene is in my mind, but whoever knows about it: This is straight up Vigilance and Control in the mock trial in S3

okay so since Peter B. is most definitely Bailey I’m guessing that’s how Emily will eventually get through to them? By the fact the she knew Doug?

criminal mastermind Brian Garrity reveal when

are you serious? that’s a prison? That’s a vacation home. I've slept in worse places that I paid for

HE HAS A MICROWAVE?

is this actually a thing in America? Okay not my business but damn

“the only thing I miss is you” VoitxRossi is sailing

yes it’s definitely Doug’s brother

yeeah

see that’s a problem because I’m pretty sure Emily holds herself responsible too xd

“does this body language tell you anything” yeah that you’re a fucker

lil bro kinda low key looks like a young Jonathan Groff

so where were you at the funeral? flashback to Emily meeting the parents but not him I’m guessing?

okay flashback but not about that

“really?” “No,” xdxdxdxdx pls. yes. thank you. OG moment. God. Love that

“You scream only child.” Emily. You’re an only child.

"I have a sister" No you don’t. Where did that come from.

Okay was she manipulating him or did they just drop this out of nowhere breaking 17 seasons of previous lore because both are a legitimate possibility.

“why weren’t you at Doug’s funeral” thank you

yeah see I like that this is coming back. Because the DOJ really dropped the ball on Benjamin Reeves

all that said Clark Gregg is still suspicious

so the teenager who is rebellious and anti-government gets into juvie where the government paid private military company trains him to be an assassin through abuse. Nice job there xd

“I’m not threatening your career” love the energy

you literally didn’t have to keep any of that from the BAU though.

THAT’s when you knew you had a crisis? Bruh

“a pilates instructor” xdxd Rebecca’s wit is underappreciated tbh

“he may or may not have information” “fuck you” 💀

are we having a discussion about the real life confines of four dimensional chess. My guy that’s a meme.

Aww JJ basically admitting they are going to get fucked over but hey it’s Emily, they gotta

“he wanted to wear comfy clothes” this bitch.

“back at it like a crack addict” you know what I retroactively would like to witness the birth of lines like this in the writer’s room

 I mean yeah sure but child trafficking does exist tho xd

okay they are cute…

“god forbid you end up on that wall” uff.

aaah you were taking the photos. But who were the guys working for you? I was absolutely sure it was Church. He had the resources, you don’t

see this is where the conspiracy theory conversations become a bit funny, because Emily is completely right, they are about amplification of fear, doubt etc. Also they help reconcile with events that we can’t make logical sense of. It’s honestly an incredibly human thing to do and they have always been around, they are not new.

That said when you introduce shit like the FBI or the CIA a lot of things that used to be “conspiracy theories” have since been reveled to have been true 💀 so people being distrustful towards these organizations are not that unreasonable when you think about it. And even in-universe the BAU has done shady shit? So.

“babe” xdxd okay so maybe Jade is dying. They have built her up to be sympathetic but they are slowly losing that angle narratively? Slowly tho

oh? is that how we’ll get to the bottom of BAUgate?

“Jenny”. can JJ slap him, just once?

the way everyone is so done with him

sometimes I do like Tyler

bit of a CGI house there lol

not Garcia psyching him out

chocolate thunder

oh, Oh?

“I put you in” I?. I??

oh my god. no. that’s vile. even within an already vile context. people have been pointing out the similarities but jesus christ

okay Emily is doing talk no jutsu about Doug

told you she does feel responsible

oooh. oh.

where do people buy so much C4

(hypothetically of course)

yeah I mean obviously not going to happen. But I get the plan there

also the team either knows that’s the endgame of they are just being very optimistic about Emily still being alive lol

of course it’s a trap. Was that really such a big revelation Dave xd

“who think we are the enemy” Tara. Babe. You kind of are to them xd

okay maybe they will survive this. Or Pete might. Jade could still kill herself. Or each other.

yeah she knows 😭

Radiohead?

passive aggressive action report

thank you for calling him out on this

no I still don’t trust Clark Gregg

is Emily going to low key blackmail the Director xd that would be very stupid. And also incredibly in character

yeah they have pretty much said it before that Tyler would be the “next generation”

“Hooray you’re alive” xd

Rebecca just got a haircut? She looks nice. But how much time had passed then.  

“the shoes” 💀 that’s so fair

oh his “ghost” just standing in the bg

okay so he either escapes, in which case the showrunners completely lied about leaving him behind in S18 lol or he dies. Maybe he gets shanked. A girl can dream

I was joking xdxdxdx 💀

uff not the bleach

oh my god he really got shanked. holy shit

I mean yes thank you

but holy shit

so we have zero idea on what happens in S18. Zero. that’s nice.

Okay, closing thoughts. It was a good episode, but a bit underwhelming on the conspiracy side of things? And as a finale? I mean they kept saying how it’s “bigger than we thought” but it really wasn’t? Also it kind of takes away from the suspense that we know none of these characters are ever dying lol But ultimately it did close off loose ends. But I really would have appreciated some implication that Voit was killed on someone’s orders to continue some kind of a plot thread? Realistically the writers probably haven’t decided on that yet lol Did like that we acknowledged that the Gold Star kids were victims but…at the end of the day who was the perpetrator?

No, I still don’t trust Clark Gregg. Also can we get back to Emily having a sister what is that about

[renaisguy]

Dear Vanessa,

Hey, this is Forde of Renais. I hope my brother found a way to get this letter to you. A lot’s happened recently and I started thinking “hey, I could write to her too!” I’m currently at the officer’s academy in Fodlan, yes that’s the same place Innes is (maybe you should visit eh?), and I’m having a great time.

It’s a shame we drifted apart-

In case you were wondering, I haven’t fallen asleep on a battlefield once since I last saw you! You must be proud I’m sure. I’ve been picking up magic, healing mostly. You said you were always interested right? Well I thought I had no affinity for it until a year ago, you should definitely give it another shot. 

I’ve continued painting, I’ve actually retired from the Renais military now to pursue that. It’s a shame I can’t send them in the mail. 

I hope you’re doing well, and I hope Titania’s doing well. Feel no pressure to respond, but I’d love to hear from you.

Forde

...

Kyle

I’m touched! Extract from letter 9 months ago: “Are you so lazy that you can’t write one letter in 3 months?” Extract from letter 8 months ago: “If you are alive, reply posthaste.” Extract from letter 6 months ago: “Please say you’re alive.” You’ve gone soft. 

I am alive, and I haven’t just been ignoring your letters for the record. I was sent on a mission I volunteered for a dangerous mission, and ended up stuck somewhere where captured and we only escaped this very week. I was one of the lucky ones

I hope my letter finds you well. Seriously. Franz told me how you’ve been acting- I’m sorry that I made you worry- I wouldn’t die and leave you alone.

I missed you too. 

Reply whenever you feel like it. God knows I’ve kept you waiting.

Forde

...

Dear Franz, 

Sorry I haven’t been replying to your letters, I hope you haven’t been too worried. Even though it’s been so long, you never lost hope that I’d be here. I was in tears reading everything- Long story short, the mission lasted a lot longer than I was expecting. But it’s fine, I think. I’m safe now, I think. 

We found ourselves in a village, and we lived with them. I made a lot of friends, one of them was a plant! I went fishing a lot, though it never tasted as good as your fish does. Sir Sigurd was there, I hope you remember him from my previous letter. Mark and Lianna were the other two I got pretty close too. Lovely girls. There was Aphaea, I don’t know where she is now, but she told some great stories! There was Chiron-

5 children died. Minos and Arke succumbed to a flood, before I got to know them. At times I began to forget they’d even existed. Nephele and Brizo were siblings, their mother Euphorie took her own life after they perished. Chiron went fishing with us, just a week before he died. He had such a lovely smile on his face when he caught that fish, and then he was gone

Arke had a mother too, she was distraught when-

Bronte and Eurus also succumbed to the flood.

There were others that died, but they were brought back to life. It’s horrible, but I can’t stop thinking the children should have been revived instead. That is, if they ever existed-

It didn’t feel like a year. I’ve lost a year of my life and I think I just slept through it. Even for me that’s-

It felt like a dream-

I don't understand what happened to us, and I'm terrified-

I haven’t been able to sleep as much, I keep worrying I’ll wake up and I’ll be back there

…

Dear Franz, 

Sorry I haven’t been replying to your letters, I hope you haven’t been too worried. Long story short, the mission lasted a lot longer than I was expecting. But it’s fine, I’m safe now.

How are you? Did you ask that girl out yet? Hope I haven’t missed too much this year. I’m gonna stay at the academy a while longer, but I might try to visit sometime. Send everyone my love, give Kyle a hug from me. (Or if that’s too informal give him a handshake instead)

Love, the best brother in the world (Forde)

Ps. Do you remember Vanessa? The girl I met during the war? If you figure out where she lives, could you give her her letter?

[randomstarmuffin]

AUgust Day 1: Canon Divergence

dunno how many of these i'll actually manage but yay to at least 1!

cross-posted to ao3 and i'm so sorry but i work in 5 hrs and haven't slept so i'm just going to leave the actually good tagging there, apologies

April 11, 9:48 AM District Court Defendant Lobby No. 3

“Mr.… Swellow, right?”

“Uh. What am I, a Pokémon? Heh. Like, ‘Who’s that…’”

“…A…what?”

Well. Mia’s really off to a rocking start, here.

Mr. Grossberg’s correct, of course, in his little defendant’s lobby pep talk—she shouldn’t let the client see her like this, but she can’t help her frown or involuntarily biting her lip all the same. What the hell is a ‘pokey-mon’? Is that somehow relevant to the case? Did she miss something important in the court record, or–

“Er, you know what, never mind,” Doug Swellow says hurriedly, looking at her in concern—great, Mia, really great work, way to keep the client calm and assured. “I just meant, it’s actually Swallow, not Swellow. Like…huh, actually. Like the bird, I guess—just, the real one and not the ’mon, y’know?”

Mia…really doesn’t know. She’s also not sure if several of those words were even words.

“A-hem,” Grossberg coughs pointedly. “That aside, Mr. Swallow, rest assured, you’re in good hands.”

“Right,” Mia says, possibly a little too grateful for the save, “I promise, if you’re truly innocent, I will do everything I possibly can to save you!”

“Uhh,” Doug replies, leaning back as far as he can, “yeah, great. Would you mind, maybe, letting go of my jacket? Thanks.”

Right, right, right, it’s totally alright. Mr. Swellow—er, that is, Swallow—is the one on trial, and Mia’s got this. She knows what she has to do, and she can totally get through this and there’s no reason to be nervous at all. Once all’s said and done, she’ll be able to rest easy, she’ll be able to tell Diego he can rest easy, and Doug here will be able to rest easy, too…and preferably won’t be looking at her with such a clear questioning of the wisdom of his decision to agree to let her take over his defense from Mr. Grossberg anymore.

On the bright side, things can only go up from here.

April 11, 10:12 AM District Court Courtroom No. 2

Things go downhill very, very quickly.

It’s easy enough to answer the court’s first few questions: the defense is ready; the cause of death was poisoning; the motive, the “bad blood” between the parties involved, was, of course, Dahlia Hawthorne, the victim’s girlfriend and the defendant’s ex. Mia knows all that, even if it’s insulting to be treated like such a rookie she had to be asked the basics of the case at all—even more so that Winston “Rookie Killer” Payne was the one so smugly leading the discussion.

…Even more so, that, maybe, she really had been freaking out enough that some of the fundamental basics of court had fled her mind. Only for a moment, of course! But it still stings that Prosecutor Payne’s annoying needling actually helped her in any way.

Even then, it’s one thing to be treated like a rookie who doesn’t know the basics of the case (even if she had been furiously catching up on everything in the court record as the trial began). It’s another thing entirely for all of the evidence to stack up so quickly and concisely to implicate her client.

It’s another thing entirely to have to cross-examine her right off the bat.

As if that demure, crocodile grin wasn’t bad enough, the crocodile tears Dahlia Hawhorne hits the court with as soon as she steps on the stand are genuinely nauseating. Then again, maybe Mia’s the only one who thinks so—the judge and Prosecutor Payne are clearly charmed, and even Grossberg murmurs, “Poor girl,” from Mia’s side, despite the sharp elbow jab he receives in response.

In fairness, she would be, if Mia weren’t positive that not even an ounce of her so-sad sympathy-sculpting sorrow is sincere. If Mia weren’t sure that this woman is the one behind this whole thing, to begin with.

If Dahlia Hawthorne weren’t so clearly trying to get away with poisoning someone again.

Mia almost misses it, but someone scoffs as Hawthorne launches into her latest round of tearful, sobbing “testimony” (more accurately: accusation)—“I thought Dougie was better than this, how could he let his jealousy get the best of him, what did poor Feenie ever do to deserve this?!”—and when Mia surreptitiously glances askance to find the source, she finds the only other face in the room darkened with clear disdain rather than bleeding sympathy is her client’s.

So maybe there’s hope, then. Maybe despite having dated her in the past, Doug Swallow actually sees this megalomaniac for who she really is. It would certainly be a breath of fresh air, and it’s all the second wind she needs to reaffirm she has to prove this man’s innocence, however she can.

She’ll make sure he walks free, and she’ll make sure to get justice for the victim—for all of Hawthorne’s victims.

As for the cross-examination at hand…

Hawthorne sniffles piteously as she finally answers the question Payne had actually asked her: “We had dinner plans, so that’s why I went to Feenie’s place to meet up, and–! Oh, it’s too horrible!” She punctuates it with some more sobbing, but Mia isn’t deterred.

On the contrary, she calls, “Hold it! When you say ‘it’s too horrible,’ you’re referring to…?”

“F-finding his body, of course,” Hawthorne sobs, “he was just lying there, and, oh, poor Feenie–!”

“Witness,” Mia interrupts, “we are looking for facts with your testimony. We don’t need–”

“Ms. Fey, have a heart! Can’t you see the poor girl is in mourning? I can’t even imagine how hard this must all be for you, sweetie; please, take your time,” Payne cries.

Unfortunately, the judge all too readily agrees that she is, somehow, the one in the wrong here, and Mia is forced to try a slightly less aggressive approach.

“Urgh–! Okay. Fine. Then, Ms. Hawthorne, when you say you had dinner plans, when exactly were you supposed to meet?”

Altogether, it’s, to put it bluntly, a slog. Dancing around Hawthorne’s lies and the judge and Payne’s incessant gooey-eyed protectiveness of her is infuriating, but eventually, they can put together something of a timeline.

The problem is, Doug Swallow was witnessed exiting the victim’s building around 4 PM—and not just by Hawthorne, but corroborated by a bunch of Art Department students who knew the victim as well (not that he would have been hard to identify, considering his obnoxious sweater)—and Hawthorne herself claims to have entered it later at around 5:30, at which point other students heard her scream and someone eventually called 911 at exactly 5:34, which would seem to line up perfectly.

Hawthorne is vague about why she would have been hanging around the victim’s building at 4 if she wasn’t going to go in until later, but Mia isn’t able to press her about it very hard before His Honor stops her from “going too far” for something not particularly related to the case.

In any event, when Payne calls the defendant to the stand to testify himself, Mia meets his eyes and finds again a kinship to her own feelings about Hawthorne, and she can definitively state that the defense has no objections. Besides, Swallow is innocent.

All she has to do is prove it.

April 11, 12:17 AM District Court Courtroom No. 2

“Proving it” is proving difficult.

It’s news to Mia that they’d found the defendant’s fingerprints on the victim’s bottle of cold medicine—even when the judge calls for a 20 minute recess following the change of witness and this revelation, and she takes the opportunity to grill him about it, he just laughs humorlessly and sits heavily on the couch with his head in his hands, saying, “I’m fucked. She got me.”

She’s hoping getting back in the courtroom will make her client more forthcoming, but he clearly doesn’t want to tell them what actually happened.

“What’s the point?” Swallow asks, smiling bitterly. “No one would ever believe me.”

“Mr. Swallow,” Mia implores, or perhaps begs, with how desperate she feels, “I swear to you, I believe in you. I believe in your innocence, and I want to help prove it. But I can’t do that unless you tell me what happened. Please.”

He stares her down for a moment. “I really don’t think you’re going to like what I have to say.”

“That’s fine. I don’t have to like it, I just need to know what really happened. If—if you want me to get—the person who did this—and to get due justice for you and Mr. Wright, I need to know.”

Doug sighs. “That poor sucker. He never knew what hit him… Okay. Okay, fine. I’ll tell you, but…don’t blame me if you have to eat your words.”

Mia wishes she could say she wasn’t worried about it, but she has no idea what to expect. Indeed, she doesn’t expect what he tells them, but it’s not as bad as she feared. That doesn’t make it good, but…

“I called him out to talk—Phoenix Wright, I mean. We were supposed to meet at 2:45 PM after class behind the Pharmacology Building. I was there on time, but he never showed. I waited around for a while by myself, but eventually I figured he wasn’t coming and left. I…got worried, later, and…that’s why I went to his place. The medicine bottle…that…wasn’t my fault.”

Sure, there’s more than enough clearly wrong with that, but it’s also something to work with.

“What did you want to talk to him about?”

“Oh. I…well, to be honest, I wanted to warn him about Dahlia.”

“‘Warn’ him? How so?” Mia presses, hoping she doesn’t sound too eager.

“She’s…” he hesitates, eyeing the judge mistrustfully, “she’s not the person she seems like she is. There were…there were a couple of…thefts. In the labs, in the pharmacology department.”

“Thefts of what?” Mia prompts.

“…Deadly poison. Once the night before the incident, and once eight months ago.”

Eight months ago! Finally, finally.

Swallow continues, “I wanted to warn that guy—Mr. Wright—just in case. I was worried because…Dahlia had come to the lab both times. She was the only one who could have stolen it! I have no idea what she was doing with it, but…well. Rather, I had no idea. Now that it’s come to this, though…I feel like it’s pretty clear.”

Mia can barely hear the murmur of the gallery over the pounding in her own ears. Dahlia Hawthorne stole deadly poison from the pharmacology lab eight months ago. It’s exactly what she’s been waiting for.

Before she gets ahead of herself, she needs to make sure she gets everything she can out of this cross-examination, though.

The judge calls for order, and Mia takes a deep breath of her own.

“Then, Mr. Swallow,” she prompts, “when you say you were worried about the defendant and went looking for him at his place, you mean…?”

“Honestly, I didn’t expect the guy to end up dead! I just…when he told me he’d be there at the meeting time, he sounded pretty set on coming. I guess I was more worried Dahlia had gotten to him first—er, well, not like… Like, that she’d told him not to talk to me, y’know.”

“And when you arrived at Mr. Wright’s room, what happened?”

“I knocked, but no answer. His neighbor saw me in the hall and told me he’d tried to go out earlier but his cold had apparently gotten worse and he barely made it to the end of the hallway before some of the other students had to take him back.”

“Did they see Ms. Hawthorne?”

“I…didn’t ask, sorry. I should have. But, I kind of doubt it…”

“That’s okay,” Mia says. There’s only one last thing she really needs to follow up on, then. “Mr. Swallow. When you said the medicine bottle ‘wasn’t your fault,’ what did you mean by that?”

He lets out a heavy breath, like maybe he’s been expecting this all along. “Right. Well. That would be because…”

His hesitation lasts long enough Mia has to prompt, “Because?”

“Because,” Swallow sighs, “I didn’t end up seeing Phoenix Wright at all that day, but I did run into Dahlia Hawthorne.”

The judge has to call for order. When things have quieted down again, Mia has to reign in her own excitement. She’s so close. She can almost taste it.

“And when was that?” Mia asks, “What happened then?”

“It was while I was waiting for Mr. Wright. She passed by the Pharmacology Department…and ran into me, literally. She bumped into me—I thought because our umbrellas had been obscuring us from each other, and she’d had headphones on, but…”

“You don’t think that anymore?”

He laughs harshly. “Yeah, not really. She fell over when she bumped me, both our umbrellas went flying…and she dropped some other stuff she’d been carrying. Including a bottle of Coldkiller X…which I stupidly picked up for her. I wouldn’t be surprised if that was literally the whole reason she approached me in the first place.”

Prosecutor Payne sneers, “Hah! How convenient! Your Honor, the witness is clearly lying through his teeth to cover his tracks!”

Mia’s pretty sure Swallow mutters, “That’s what I was afraid of,” but she doesn’t have time for that.

She has to convince the judge that her client is telling the truth. And… She thumbs the corner of the newspaper clipping in her pocket. She has to find a way to connect this to Diego’s poisoning. She has to.

She is so, so close.

April 11, 2:59 PM District Court Defendant Lobby No. 3

She never gets close.

There just isn’t any evidence. She can’t prove Dahlia Hawthorne stole the poison from the lab, and all she has is Doug’s word that she was ever there at all. No surveillance cameras, no entry or exit logs, no nothing.

She can’t prove it.

She can, and does, however, prove Doug Swallow’s innocence. The words “Not Guilty” have never sounded so bitter. It’s a fluke, honestly. Most of the end of the trial is a blur. It turns out Swallow has an airtight alibi that somehow they’ve all missed. It turns out, by some miracle, Swallow never had the opportunity to take the specific poison that was used, that he was always with at least one other person in the lab, that—honestly, even if she only just proved it all, she barely remembers the specifics; it’s just, it doesn’t really matter.

It doesn’t matter, because Mia fails. She couldn’t prove she stabbed Valerie Hawthorne, she couldn’t prove she pressured Terry Fawles into taking poison to silence himself for her, and.

She can’t prove Dahlia Hawthorne murdered Phoenix Wright.

She still can’t prove Dahlia Hawthorne poisoned Diego.

The insidious tinkling of Hawthorne’s smug laughter chases Mia out of the courtroom. She was honestly ready to lay everything on the line just for a chance to bring Dahlia to justice, even a very, very slim one, but Mr. Grossberg had stopped her before she’d pressed hard enough to lose her badge entirely. He’d had a point, she supposes. If she loses her badge, she’s that much further from being able to do anything about any of this. If she loses her badge, she’s that much further from her original goal, from finding the man who ruined her mother and her village and bringing him to justice, too.

But it hurts.

Diego once told her a lawyer can only cry when it’s all over.

But fuck, she wants to cry. She wants to scream and bitch and moan and curse until her throat is raw, too, but she really, really wants to cry.

She won’t. He’s right. She still has work to do. But that doesn’t erase the want.

Still. Even if there’s a dark, heavy pit in her stomach, even if this is somehow nearly as bad as the worst day of her life, when she’d had to watch her first client die on the stand before her very eyes, she still has a duty to her current client.

She forces the brightest smile she can muster.

It might not be enough, but it’s something. She has to try. It can be the darkest hour, and she still has to try. She couldn’t live with herself otherwise.

“Congratulations, Mr. Swallow,” Mia manages, turning to him. Smiling.

“Yes, congratulations!” Grossberg agrees, clapping him lightly on the shoulder. Mia’s boss is undoubtedly faring better than she is, but she can tell he’s far from unphased. Still, she appreciates that he’s able to muster a little more enthusiasm—Doug deserves it from somewhere, at least, and it sure as hell isn’t going to get there from Mia.

“Thanks,” Swallow says. He smiles back, although Mia can tell he’s feeling a much more real sense of relief at his acquittal than she is. He winces a little, like maybe he can tell as well. “I’m…really sorry I didn’t have anything else to help prove it was her.”

“No, no, that’s… You have nothing to apologize for,” Mia replies honestly. “If anything, I really need to thank you. Even just knowing where the poison was from…that’s a great clue. Really.”

Swallow looks like maybe he can’t decide if she’s just being nice about that or not, but if he has doubts he doesn’t say anything about them.

Mr. Grossberg asks, “What will you do now?”

The question reminds Mia—she feels terrible she’d forgotten to even think about it, frankly. She gasps, “Shit—sorry, Mr. Swallow. But—I don’t think she’s going to just forget about this. You might still be in danger–”

“Ah,” Swallow says, not sounding particularly surprised, “yeah, I…was kinda thinking the same thing. Then again, if anything happens to me now, it seems like it’d be pretty obvious, so maybe… Well, either way, this is my last year. I graduate in a couple months. Maybe I’ll be a little extra paranoid during that time, but, hey, y’know. I got falsely accused of murder, and all. I don’t think my classmates will find it all that weird if I insist on taking a buddy with me everywhere.”

It’s not a terrible plan—it is, in fact, an exponentially better plan than anything Mia had come up with, which was a big fat nothing, because she’d been so clouded by her dark, bitter disappointment and rage that she’d let Dahlia Hawthorne get away again.

Grossberg seems to agree, for whatever that’s worth, because he says, “That sounds like a wise course of action, but still, be careful out there, my boy.”

Actually, Grossberg looks a little like he’s thinking about how he might need to watch his own back, too—which, in all fairness, is absolutely true.

“Yeah,” Doug agrees, shoving his hands in the pockets of his leather jacket. “You too. You know…it’s a shame, really.”

“What is?” Mia asks. Which specific shame are we talking, here? There are oh-so-many to choose from.

Doug is looking at the doors to the courtroom like he hasn’t quite caught up with the fact he doesn’t have to go back into it yet. “It’s a shame about Phoenix Wright, I mean.”

“Oh,” Mia says, feeling stupid. Obviously. And it is a shame. She’s feeling keenly her own shame at not being able to catch his killer.

“Yeah. He must have—I mean, they spent so much time together, you know? He had to have known something else—maybe, if only you could ask him, you know? I mean, don’t get me wrong, the guy seemed like a total simp, but still. You can’t spend that much of your time with someone and never give anything away, right? Or pick up on something? He must have known something that could have helped prove it. Then again, I guess that’s probably why he’s, you know…”

“Y…yeah,” Mia says faintly.

Her mind is whirling, overloaded, her processing running slowly. She’s stuck on—if only you could ask him.

If only…there was a way…to ask someone…someone dead–

“Well,” Grossberg is saying regretfully, “if only that were possible, and we might not even need lawyers working court cases after all. Imagine, if you could just ask every victim about what happened. You’ll put us out of a job, Mr. Swallow!”

The two men laugh, albeit more than a little lackluster, not as if it’s something particularly funny per se but more like the only thing you can do about something so ridiculous, so idealistic, so impossible, is in fact to laugh at the mere suggestion of it.

Mia feels like laughing, too, but maybe not in the same way.

April 11, 4:56 PM RosAnzerusu Mia Fey’s Apartment

Mia doesn’t laugh until she’s safely home, and, importantly, alone.

She thinks she said goodbye to them both, at some point. She’s pretty sure they all went their separate ways, considering she’s definitely by herself, now. She’s also pretty sure Grossberg dropped her off at her apartment, not being subtle about doing it because he was worried about letting her walk or take the bus alone after what just happened. She hopes she thanked him. She appreciates it, and it’s not his fault she’s got something else on her mind. It won’t exactly be fun to go back to the office on Monday, but she doesn’t think it’ll be completely suffocating, either.

Still, she laughs.

It’s, frankly, a terrible idea.

The last time anyone tried it for this specific purpose, Mia’s mom fucking vanished into the ether because of how utterly terribly it went, leaving not only Mia but also her 10-years-younger sister to fend for themselves in the downright ravenous jungle of the power struggle vacuum she left behind for them.

Then again, last time, it had been to name the killer, not to find evidence to implicate an already known killer. So maybe not, technically, this specific purpose.

It’s still a bad idea. It’s still such a bad idea.

Mia doesn’t realize she’s picked up her phone until it’s already ringing, and by then it would be far more cruel to hang up first.

“Sis!” comes the phone-distorted young voice to prove her right in no time at all. “What’s up?! You never call on Fridays!”

Even just hearing Maya’s voice is enough to make things seem less bleak. Mia hadn’t realized she needed that right now.

Mia can’t help but chuckle, though she hopes it’s a little less manic than the kind of cackling she’d been doing as she slid down her apartment door as soon as it closed behind her. “Hey, Maya.”

“I– Oh, oops, hang on,” Maya says, and then, slightly muffled: “No, it’s fine, Aunt Morgan, it’s just Mia! Yeah, I– Yeah, I know, don’t worry!” and then once more in her normal voice: “So! Hi! What’s goin’ on?”

Well, if only that weren’t such a loaded question. “Just got home from a trial.”

“Oh, well, that’s pretty— Wait, what?! Like a trial in court?! I thought you didn’t want to do those anymore? You never mentioned you were going back! What gives?”

Mia can’t completely hold back her sigh. She can’t unload all of this on Maya, she’s still so young—only fourteen. Mia is the older one; she’s the only truly loving, reliable family Maya has left in the world. It’s too much of a burden to share with her. Which is exactly why Mia should never have even remotely entertained the idea in the first place, and why she definitely shouldn’t have called, and–

“Helloooo? Mia? You still there?”

“Yeah, I’m– I’m still here, Maya.” And then Mia stops there. And then Mia stops there and doesn’t continue because if she lets herself continue she’s going to say something stupid like: “Hey, Maya? How would you feel about coming for a visit? Maybe stay with me over the weekend, or…?”

Mia’s so busy refraining from smashing her face into her own door frame for her complete lack of self control, she almost doesn’t notice how unexpectedly lengthy the pause is before Maya replies.

She doesn’t have time to question it before Maya is saying, breathless and somehow both trepidatious and excited at the same time, “…You really mean it? Me come there? The whole weekend?!”

There’s too much jumbled around in Mia’s head to fully appreciate what it means that her sister doesn’t immediately believe she could really be inviting her over to her place. She can’t think about that, too. Not right now.

So she laughs a little (and no one can see her if it’s a bit helpless) and repeats, “Yes, Maya, the whole weekend. Unless you get sick of me, I guess.”

“No!” Maya shouts, maybe a little too quick and a little too loud. “No, I mean, that’s– Of course I wanna come! I just– I mean, I thought you’d be calling for a favor, or something. Haha.”

“Ah,” Mia says, wincing. “Well…”

“Oh,” Maya says, though she recovers her lighthearted tone much faster this time, “What, you need a housesitter or something, Sis? For shame, using your one and only little sister for manual child labor…”

“Ha-ha,” Mia replies flatly. “Not that kind of favor.”

In fact, if she can keep a hold of herself and her own better judgment, she might not ask any kind of favor at all. That’s what she knows she should do, at least.

Only…Diego. Only: Mr. Fawles, and Valerie Hawthorne, and Mr. Wright.

“Oh yeah? What kind of favor, then?”

Mia should just let it go. In all likelihood, he won’t react well to the whole thing, anyway. In all likelihood, he won’t be able to give a coherent answer, he’ll freak out, he’ll want nothing to do with them, he’ll—any number of things. A million ways it could all go very, very wrong. Not to mention—bringing Maya here? Now? Right after she challenged Dahlia Hawthorne again in such a direct way?

Mia would never forgive herself if she got her sister involved in something dangerous—and, well. This particular thing already has at least four bodies in its wake—three cold, one warm but unmoving.

Mia can’t do this. She can’t–

She can’t. She can’t let her go. What will she do when the next victim appears? When she could have tried something more to stop her?

“Well…” How to say this. In the end, Mia decides: “There’s someone I’d like you to meet, if you’re willing, Maya.”

And Maya answers, “Oh yeah? Sounds easy! Are they cool?”

“You know? I have no idea.”

“Huh? You mean it’s not someone you know?”

“Not really,” Mia laughs, “no. Want to find out together?”

“I,” says Maya, “have absolutely no idea what you’re talking about, but do you even have to ask? Of course! Which train do I take?”

If Mia were smart, if she were responsible, she’d call the whole thing off now.

So of course, Mia asks, “When’s the next one leave?”

And honestly, it might all be worth it just to hear Maya’s delighted laugh in response and to know, if nothing else, at least she’ll get to see her sister’s bright face soon.

It might.

Hopefully, she’s right to wager that it will be.

[pbandjesse]

I didn't think I was going to be so tired tonight. But man I am very tired. Only a few hours left of work here at the museum. But it has been a pretty good day. Just busy.

I wish I slept more. I struggled to fall asleep. To find a comfortable way to lay. My back was hurting and it was a struggle.

I work up at 6 but mostly just dozed for the next hour. James came and laid with me and a little after 7 we got up. I was sad that my phone hadn't been charging but it would be okay. I would charge it at least a bit while I was getting dressed.

I didn't want to leave though. I was just not feeling it. But I would gather myself and my things and after a few hugs I headed out.

The drive in wasn't terrible. It wasnt terrible but it was fine. I would get to camp right after 8 and stopped at the dumpsters to drop off our big recycling that has been in the basement for a while. It was really nice to get rid of it. Though I was super surprised at how much stuff was around the dumpsters?? I knew we had a rental this passed weekend but it just seemed like a lot of stuff spilling everywhere. Plus it had rained yesterday so it was also wet. Gross. I hope the trash people come soon. I also really hope Joe didn't have to deal with it because it was real gross.

We had a field trip on the schedule but Elizabeth hasn't said anything to me through text so I wast sure when they were coming or if they were coming or what they would be doing if they were coming. So I hung out in the office and worked on my knitting. Doing this double layer system is more time consuming and this loom has a tight weave so it's not as quick as some of my other looms. But that's okay. I would work until 9, when a plumber showed up. I would text Joe to let him know and he told me to direct them to the pool house. Excellent.

Elizabeth would text me soon to let me know that the group did in fact cancel. I asked what I should do for the next few hours. And I suggested that I would just work on lessons and research. She said that was fine and so I spent the next two hours doing that.

It's hard to figure out how to balance the horsemanship program. How much is riding, how much is learning, how many horses that can be available. So I tried my best to to balance that but also I was mostly just giving suggestions and building on the document Chloe is working on. I hope it was helpful and not annoying. But I will need to sit down with her and Rachel to really understand what the campers can actually do. It's an ongoing conversation.

Around 1130 I started to run out of focus. I would go to the attic to clean up some games that has been left out from when me and Sarah were organizing up there months ago. But then I just felt like I was out of things to do that could be done in the next hour. So I decided to go home.

I had a pretty easy drive home. And was just so happy to be back. Even if it was just a short time.

James was happy when I came in. Sweetp seemed happy to have me there. I would go and take a shower and got changed into my new spikey collar dress. I noticed that there was a part of the seam I had missed when I was adding the panels the other day. So I would go downstairs to fix that before James helped zipped up the back for me. They did startle me really bad because they had come upstairs and I didn't know!! Scared me so bad! Very unexpected.

I would have a little lunch. But soon someone was knocking on our door. It was the appointment in with the man who was coming to measure our backdoor and give us an estimate.

He was very nice but as soon as I saw he had a straight up door to door sales man briefcase with samples in it I knew this was going to be expensive. And in the end it was was way more then I was planning for. I would have to head to the museum and James took over decisions. And would put down a lot as a deposit but we are going to claw that back and find somewhere more reasonable then $8k. For a door. Ridiculous.

I have had a really nice night at the museum but also I am so tired. I do t k ow why I was particularly tired tonight but around 5 it hit me hard. Me and Meril were hungry and tired and they had set up all the desserts and they looked so good. I was trying to remain positive but I was flagging really hard.

The event was lovely though. A charity event for a group/center that supports disabled children and teens. I think they also work with adults but that was less clear.

They were super nice though. And the event would be very fun. Once everything was set and going I would have fun listening to people and talking to the catering and learning about AV stuff. It was fun

I would be in charge of the string quartet. But even though I walked them through how to leave the front to be nondisruptive, they still went rouge and tried to walk through the presentations. Silly behavior but not the worst thing. I wasn't even involved when that happened because my feet hurt real bad and I was sitting at the front with Mark the security guard. Meril texted me "Marco" asking where I was. So I went to find them.

There would be some really lovely speeches. Including from one of our senators. Who turns out is one of my co-workers at the museum, Deborah, Dad. And he was lovely. And gave a beautiful speech. Turns out he is never once lost an election. In his entire 60-year career. So that's wild. And after their last speeches and awards it was just party dessert and a really easy getting everyone out.

Honestly they were a great work group to work with and I would love for them to come back because they were just super sweet and like made the night really easy and when we thought they were going to be done which was 9:30 they were actually more out of there about 9:00. The caterers cleaned up without any fuss. And again what I've said before you get what you pay for and this was a very nice cater and they were really funny and really sweet and there were no real complaints about cleaning up everything the way that it needed to be cleaned up. Honestly I really like when they're there because they're funny but they're also really nice to me and they were like teasing me and I was teasing them and we were just having a good time.

I would slowly go through turning off lights and I still don't feel like I have a 100% of the light switches memorized but I'm feeling more comfortable. I definitely need to consider my shoes a little bit better. I wore my new little sandal shoes which are super cute but halfway through the night they had torn up the tops of my toes and I was in a lot of pain. Once I put Band-Aids on my feet I was fine mostly. But I'm definitely going to do what Jesse does and have a pair of shoes to switch into for that last hour during clean up. Just something softer. And once we were done cleaning up we were basically ready to go.

Jesse Maryland and me were all at the front desk resetting it and making it look nice for James in the morning. I had wrapped up my plate of desserts to bring home. Taped a paper towel over top of it so that I wouldn't lose anything. The party also let us keep their flowers so all of us got to bring home a little vase with some beautiful orange and purple flowers. And then we were just being goofy and having a nice time and talking and it was just a really lovely evening. I really like this job and I think it will become so much easier when I don't have to do two jobs in one day because it's not even like tomorrow I'm going to be exhausted and tired. I'm going to do that anyway. But working all morning and then coming and doing a second event is pretty tough.

I'm on my way home now. And I'm hoping to get back in the house and wash my hair and get cozy. And then hopefully fall asleep easier than I did last night. Tomorrow I have a field trip but it should be fairly easy. I'm just helping with harnesses at the zip line. And then I'm hoping for a quiet night. I think it will be a good day. I have high hopes.

I hope that you all have a safe and good evening. I hope you sleep well. I hope tomorrow you have a fun and productive day. Sleep well my friends. Until next time.

[sunnyuto]

Story time:

When I was a freshman in college, I had a major medical emergency right after midterms. I ended up being out of school for two weeks. Luckily, because it happened on school grounds and they were fully aware of what went down, I was immediately connected with the Dean of Students and my professors were all informed before I got back. This basically meant that that I had until the end of the semester to turn in the work I missed and any extensions needed on current work when I came back.

The complication was that I was also dealing with a lot of fatigue and insomnia due to what happened. CPR is fucking painful. I had one 9am and one 9:30am class that semester and I really struggled to make it to class on time, if at all. Truthfully, I didn’t care that much about making the 9am, it was taught by a sucky professor who only used the slides that came with our textbook, and there was a general understanding that as long as I was getting assignments in, attendance wasn’t going to be held against.

But I did care about making my 9:30 class. It was my favorite class with my favorite professor and being in class actual was important. At one point I had missed a few classes in a row due to oversleeping - I wouldn’t fall asleep until 3 or 4 in the morning and so wouldn’t wake up until 10 or 11 - so I decided I was going to do whatever it took to make the next session and ended up pulling an all nighter in the student center to make sure I wouldn’t sleep through class.

I made it to class on time and took my usual seat and got ready to take notes and you wanna know what happened?

I slept through the fucking class in the back of the lecture hall.

The professor never called me out on it, although she definitely knew, as there was a general understanding that I could do whatever I needed to in order to just get through the rest of that semester.

But I think sometimes about how if I hadn’t been immediately connected with the resources I needed, I likely would have failed both of those classes that semester and probably at least one other. I am not someone that can easily ask for help or admit when I’m struggling and I’m so fortunate that my department and my school in general was keeping their eye on me. I fully fucking died and was lucky enough to be in the position where everyone around me knew and was able to help me move along as I came to terms with that.

So please. Don’t be like me. Ask for help when you need it. Admit to your professors when you’re struggling, especially when the struggle is completely external to their class. Your professors are human beings and they want to help you and see you succeed. The assholes are rare, I promise.

hard lesson to learn but it has been important for college: ask professors for extensions BEFORE you desperately need it, rest BEFORE you're exhausted, skip class BEFORE you're too exhausted to go to class, cancel obligations as soon as the vibes are off, etc

there's been five times so far where I was like "Should I ask for this extension/go home early/skip this class?" and each time I've been incredibly thankful I did it and I felt better afterwards.

[nathank77]

5/6/24

3:52 p.m Edited and Added to 4:11 p.m

I fucked up and overslept why?

So yea I took 1MG and couldn't sleep. I didn't even smoke weed before bed bc I didn't want to get high.... and I needed a fucking Hydroxyzine.... and I missed my fucking cardiologist. I'm so fucked, it could be months before I get my monitor now. I called but it's too late... I only woke up once at 9 a.m and peeded...

I hate that I struggle to fall asleep and that I have such bad circadian rhythm issues at this point that I can hardly make any appt if it isn't after 5 p.m... I hate that I can't fix any of my issues. I've had palpitations for days and I really needed to fucking go and I wake up at 3:30... 30 minutes later.

It isn't my fault I closed my eyes for over a hour and accomplished nothing... this is the issue. I should have prob taken Benadryl instead of a Hydroxyzine but it's too late now.

Idk how to fix anything, no one will help me all I can do is help myself.

Why can't doctors have 4 pms or 4:30s... why is everything so fucking early...

How am I supposed to fucking fix my circadian rhythm when I can't fucking fall asleep on a 1MG.... without keeping my eyes closed for over a hour...

Maybe it is a placebo but idk.

I don't even know If I should keep smoking weed. It seemed to make my thoughts more sloppy and then I mean I worry constantly... beyond that I see the fucked up creature more just too fucked to see the face or anything but I know what it is. And it didn't seem to help me sleep the other night...

I feel like such a fuck up missing my cardiologist appt... like what am I supposed to do. The 1mg felt like poop. I was barely tired at 7 a.m. I felt like i was on the 1/2 mg and I have to take it earlier on earlier appts so I can wake up early enough. Idk what to do anymore..

I'm not even scheduled and now i have to wait for them to fit me in, in a 3-3:45 p.m. I await the call feeling like a fuck up.

The last time I smoked weed was at 1 a.m and I didn't touch it before the Xanax... so I mean yea I didn't want to get high. Idk what to do. I am so fucking mad at myself. I really needed to be there.

I wish my circadian rhythm wasn't getting worse. Cause obviously it is. And why isn't xanax effective anymore, is it a placebo? Did she do the test wrong? Cause I mean... why wouldnt black hairy tongue heal, bacterial infection or yeast infection or Xanax? Yea Xanax prob isn't a placebo bc of black hairy tongue but I mean it's been fucking useless recently without other drugs and here I am using a Hydroxyzine with a 1mg..... and then it knocked me out until 9 a.m and I peeded and I was gone until 3:30..

Also I noticed my mental pictures with weed have been like, darker, Texas chainsaws massacre. And there was a dark room with a light.... and the light turned on it was a string light... so yea idk. None of it scared me and I love that shit but I want bright cartoon images. Maybe weed isn't going to work.. it scared me in the sense that they got darker and psychosis is dark and messes with your mental pictures.

I feel like such a fuck up. Why dont doctors have 4 or 4:30s... my testosterone shot is fucking Wednesday and I have to take another 1MG and I'll prob oversleep it's at 3:45.... I just can't cope, laying there with my eyes closed for over a hour and then ending up having to drug myself further just to hit sleep stage one...

Idk what to do anymore. I fucking hate how psychosis fucked up my whole life and now it could be until July or June for me to get another appt I'll sleep through. Disability is at 1:30 the 17th, my insomnia appt is at 3:15 Monday please tell me how I am supposed to lay there with my eyes closed for hours just to fall asleep without another drug and please tell me how I'm supposed to wake up on time when my stupid body won't fall asleep a little earlier.

Oh yea and I can't rely or depend on anyone, my mother was home i asked her to wake me up at 2 and she didnt i slept through my alarms and I can't depend on anyone to help me. It's all Nathan trying to do everything and me getting fucked cause I'm so alone and psychosis fucked up my entire life.

My only solution is trying to take my older Xanax mixing the biggest piece with the biggest smallest piece cause like it feels like a placebo at this point and idk why I'm not abusing it. I'll take that for me Testosterone shot...

Tonight going to be hard going back to a half MG... and yea I'm like dying inside thinking about what if they reschedule me and then I miss that one.... eventually they'll discharge me..... what if I miss my insomnia appt... the didn't have later than a fucking 3:15..

Disability only has 1:30s.... and I can't make anything on time. I feel like such a fuck up

[asterlizard]

UK Trip October 2023 (Part 1)

(oh boy I have missed doing one of these!)

This was the first time travelling since the pandemic began, so of course there was a bit of stress while prepping for this trip. But because we were careful throughout the trip, we avoided anything that could have hindered us.

This felt like a part two to our trip back in 2019, with some unfinished business finally feeling finished. And yet, with only two weeks of travel time, even more unfinished business was made!

Like our previous trip, our flight would leave in the middle of the day, so we had to wake up pretty early in order to get to SFO, check-in, and board the plane on time.

Unfortunately for us, we didn't get much sleep that night. We also used a different ride-share service this time, rather than taking the bus, because our schedules would have conflicted.

We met up at 7:15, and had a good chat with our driver for almost the entire trip, who was from a small town in the Balkans of Bulgaria. When he brought this up, I brought up what I knew about the culture, mainly roses and yogurt (cultural knowledge is a really good ice-breaker!) While chatting, we'd deviate to other topics, including computer science and the rise of A.I. As we drove through San Francisco, he even recommended a restaurant to us! (Kevin's Noodle House)

We arrived at the airport after 9 AM, and checked our bags in pretty quickly. Our flight wasn't until 12:30, so we had plenty of time to kill. I did have a little something to eat before going through customs, but alas I wasn't hungry enough didn't have anything else until the flight.

The flight itself wasn't packed at all! I'm so used to flying during busy seasons, and this flight was like half full! We even got to move to an empty row so we could have a space to ourselves! (Thanks Shawn!)

While we wanted to be careful and were prepared to wear our masks during the flight, because we had plenty of space (There was someone in the row ahead of us, but they slept almost the entire flight, and an empty row in front of them) we didn't really need to! There was also plenty of hand sanitizer on board which I used multiple times to keep my mind at ease. And there were no screaming babies! It was a very pleasant flight!

Wildfire over Idaho?

Entertainment-wise, I got to watch two films on the flight:

'6/45': a funny Korean film about soldiers from the North and South fighting over a winning lottery ticket across the DMZ

'Lost Love': a bittersweet Hong Kong film about a couple who recently lost their young child to an illness, eventually trying out fostering children

Also got to listen to some 80s and 90s music (no 60s or 70s anymore it seems, RIP)

During the night portion of our trip, I saw the stars so clearly (alas I couldn't take good photos) It's also been a while since I've arrived in LHR during the dark. Day just started to break as we were landing.

Once we got to LHR, we travelled by rail to stay at a friend of mum's for a couple of nights (first time taking the Elizabeth Line! Though there were some delays)

When we got there, mum's friend drove us to Hastings and gave us a bit of a tour along the beachside.

Note: I'm using an old camera that has a few cracks in the lens that is unfortunately visible in some photos like the one above. I won't be sharing much of these.

They had a cute working mini railway! With a proper mini crossing!

>:U

Stopped to have a sample of some fudge (it was really really good, mum commented it was how her mum used to make it, I wish I had more!)

This place is so charming!

Tumblr is now limiting how many photos I can add to a post, and I don't have the heart to remove photos I want to share, so this journal will be split into multiple parts.

Here is part 2: [link]

[bing-bang-bingo]

- 4x3: c. 40:00 Cas comforts Dean after Mary makes a deal w/ Azazel

- 4x7: 15:50 Dean stops Sam from shooting Cas, then Sam mentions that he’s “heard a lot about him”

- 4x7: 39:00 Cas tells Dean he prayed he’d save the town, then he tells him about his doubts and Deans future troubles

- 4x10 & ???: Dean calls “last night on Earth” his best line. He uses this line on Cas

- 4x10: 27:15 “Castiel has this weakness. He likes you.”

- 4x10: 32:50 Cas looking jealous and sad when Dean kisses Anna

- 4x16: 7:30 Cas tells Dean he got in trouble for showing emotion and getting to close to Dean. 8:20 “I would give anything not to have you do this”

- 4x16: 39:00 Cas warns Dean to be careful while Dean is in the hospital, they discuss the first seal and saving Dean from hell

- 4x18: 31:30 Cas tells Dean how to save Sam from Lilith even though he’s not allowed to interfere

- 4x20: 38:00 Deans face when Cas tells him he “learned his lesson when he was in heaven”

- 4x22: 30:40 Cas considers rebelling for Dean. 33:00 He does. 35:20 He fights multiple Archangels for Dean

- 5x1: 5:45 Dean denies Cas’ death 8:25 “I learned that from my friend Cas you son of a bitch”

- 5x1: 31:00 Cas saves Sam and Dean from Zach

- 5x3: 6:10 Cas-“I need your help because your the only one who will help me”

- 5x3: 10:20 Dean fixes Cas’ tie and jacket

- 5x4: 38:50 “Don’t Ever Change”

- 5x8: 38:20 Dean makes Gabriel bring Cas back, then makes sure he’s okay

- 5x13: ?:?? Cas won’t let Dean meet with Anna because it’s not safe

- 5x17: 30:30 Cas and Dean discuss what it’s like to have a deadbeat dad

- 5x18: 25:15 Cas kicks Deans ass for trying to sacrifice himself

- 5x21: 3:50 Cas and Dean bickering like and old married couple then Cas gives Dean a heartfelt apology.

- 6x17: 18:55 “No you’re confusing me with the other angel, the one in the dirty trench coat who is in love with you.”

- 6x17: 38:00 Sam: “So you killed 50,000 people for us?” Cas: *looks at Dean*

- 6x19: 25:20 Bobby reassures Cas that they’ll be back soon, Cas acts like a worried and disappointed wife.

- 6x19: 36:25 Cas yelling “Dean!” when Eve bites him

- 6x19: 40:00 Dean is the only one who doesn’t think Cas is working with Crowley (he’s wrong but it’s sweet)

- 6x20: 4:50 Dean v v worried, “But Cas you’ll call right? If you get into real trouble?”

- 6:30 Crowley implies that Cas is distracted by Dean and tells him he reeks of the Impala.

- 7:20 Cas says that Dean taught him how to care and what to care about. Then Cas saves Sam (for Dean)

- 13:15 Cas says that the worst part of working with Crowley (basically his sworn natural enemy) is that it hurt Dean and that he hated lying to him.

- 25:20 Cas refuses to ask Dean for help because he has “sacrificed too much” even though it means Cas could die.

- 26:00 Crowley tells Cas he has a way for everyone to get a happy ending “with all possible entendres intended” while Cas stares longingly at Dean.

- 33:00 Dean is close to tears when he learns that Cas is working with Crowley, Cas says he did it to protect Dean.

- 35:25 “Dammit Cas we can fix this!” “Dean it’s not broken!” He then tells the boys to run from the demon cloud and Dean gives him the saddest look in the world before being forced to leave him behind.

- 38:00 Cas watches Dean sleep. “I’m doing this for you Dean. I’m doing this because of you!”

- 6x21: 22:40 “I do everything you ask. I always come when you call and I am your friend. Still despite your lack of faith in me and now your threats I’ve just saved you yet again. Has anyone but your closest kin ever done more for you?”

- 6x22: Dean to Cas- “Don’t make me lose you, too.”

- 7x2: 5:35 Dean nearly cries on screen when he thinks Cas is dead

- 7x17: Cas says “I remember ~you~” as soon as he regains his memories.

- 7x17: Cas ask why Dean didn’t tell him all the horrible things Cas did. Parallels the conversation Karen and Dean had about telling Bobby she remembered him killing her and her telling Dean that he had never been on love before.

- 7x21: The face Dean makes when he sees Cas again plus the prolonged eye contact when Cas says Deans name.

- 7x21: Hester telling Dean that when Cas first saved him from Hell he was lost- parallels- Lucifer/Jess saying she was dead the moment she met Sam.

- 7x23: 8:50 “Go ask him. He was your boyfriend first.” Meg to Dean about Cas

- 7x23: 32:45 “I’m sorry but I’d rather have you, cursed or not.”

- 7x23: 36:50 Cas steps in to protect Dean despite spending the whole season avoiding fighting and saying he won’t fight.

- 8x2: 25:00 Cas ran away to keep the Leviathans away from Dean. Dean refuses to leave purgatory without Cas.

- 8x7: 20:30 Deans reaction to seeing Cas all cleaned up.

- 8x7: Dean convinced himself that it was his fault Cas was still in purgatory because he’s a sweet idiot boy who hates himself

- 8x7: 35:00 The whole Dean and Cas conversation about purgatory and Cas doing stuff that puts him in danger.

- 8x8: 12:30 Cas just casually going through Deans stuff and Dean not saying anything.

- 8x8: 13:00 Cas offering to watch over Dean while he slept

- 8x8: 15:15 Dean talks to Cas about feelings and heaven even though Dean hates talking about feelings.

- 8x17: Cas fights Naomi’s mind control for Dean

- 8x23: 22:50 Dean and Cas sadly discuss Cas closing the doors of heaven and say goodbye

- 9x1: Dean prays to Cas and tells him he isn’t mad about the angels falling.

- 9x1: Cas’ first instinct is to explain himself to Dean then to come help him.

- 9x1: Dean begs Cas to “for once, look out for yourself.”

- 9x3: 36:45 Dean to Cas after Cas came back from the dead “Don’t you ever do that again!”

- 9x6: Literally just Dean trying desperately the whole episode to hang out with Cas

- 9x10: 26:00 Dean and Cas talk about how Cas is doing and Dean offers him a rare sincere apology. Plus the “I prefer the term ‘trusting’. Less dumb, less ass.” dialogue

- 9x18: Cas’ little smile when Dean makes a joke about Honor Bars and Cas is just so happy to hear his voice.

- 9x18: Metatron’s illusion of Gabriel calls Cas Dean’s boy-toy

- 9x18: Cas can tell something is wrong with Dean, then Cas yells at Dean about getting the Mark of Cain

- 9x22: Cas chooses Dean over all of Heaven once again

- 9x22: The Cas and Dean conversation about the three of them being enough when an army wasn’t and Cas giving up an army all for Dean

- 9x23: “I’m blaming you for taking Cas’ grace.”

- 10x1: 5:00 Cas about Dean- “I miss him.”

- 10x2: 9:00 Cas’ reaction to learning that Dean is a demon

- 10x3: The conversation between Dean and Cas at the end of the episode. “You look terrible” “You on the other hand, your looking good.”

- 10x5: Deans reaction to Cas and Dean actors hugging and holding hands

- 10x5: “Put as much sub into that text as you possibly can.” *looks directly at fake Cas*

- 10x9: 15:00 Cas tells Dean he’s a good role model. Then asks him if he’s okay and when Dean lies and says he is he pushes it further. Dean makes Cas promise to kill him if he goes Dark

- 10x22: Dean and Cas fight and parallel Cain and his Wife.

- 10x23: Dean sees Cas’ bloody face in the mirror

- 11x1: Cas being more worried about Dean than himself even though Cas is under a spell that will kill him.

- 11x2: Dean calling Cas and stressing out when he doesn’t answer

- 11x3: Dean trying to coax Cas out of the attack dog spell, refusing to fight back when Cas was attacking, freaking out when Cas took a minute to wake up, refusing to let Cas heal him (because he “had it coming”), and refusing to let Cas apologize (because “there’s nothing to apologize for”).

- 11x10: “Dean, I came as soon as you called.” Also: “Stick your tongue out.” Dean-*does*

- 11x11: Dean realizing that something is wrong with Cas (while he is possessed by Lucifer)

- 11x11: Mildred says that Dean is pining for someone else(probably meant to be a reference to Amara, but she told him this after he had seen Cas for the first time in a few days.)

- 11x14: The sadness on Deans face when he realizes Cas is Lucifer and then his determination to save Cas

- 11x15: Dean getting kinda dark when he talks about what he’s willing to do to save Cas and he prioritizes saving Cas over bearing Amara.

- 11x17: Dean once again prioritizing saving Cas over saving the world. Sam reassuring Dean that they’ll save Cas (even though Dean didn’t say anything about what was upsetting him)

- 11x17: The camera zooming in on Dean after Michelle says that there is no normal after losing the man you love.

- 11x18: Dean refuses to put Lucifer in the cage or let him fight Amara while using Cas as his vessel.

- 11x18: The difference in the way Dean looks at Lucifer vs at Cas

- 11x18: Dean about Cas: “Lets go find that idiot and bring him home.”

- 11x19: Dean has been looking for leads non stop for a week since Amara took Cas

- 11x21: Amara uses Cas’s heart to find Dean, then shows Dean images of Cas beaten and bloodied to convince him to turn against Chuck

- 11x23: Dean’s face when he realizes Cas is back and Lucifer is gone.

- 11x23: Dean tells Cas he isn’t stupid and that he always helps

- 11x23: Cas: “Dean are you okay? How do you feel?”

- 11x23: Cas hugging Dean super tight before he goes off to die. Dean entrusting his life’s purpose (look after Sam) then thanking him for everything.

- 12x1: Cas seeing that Dean is alive and hugging him while his voice breaks.

- 12x1: Cas taking the job Dean have him very seriously

- 12x2: Dean adorably venting to Cas about his mommy-issues

- 12x3: Dean- “Morning sunshine want some coffee.” Cas- “No thank you.”

- 12x7: “Well at least I don’t look like a lumberjack.” They are such husbands

- 12x7: “Engaged in what Cas? killing you?”

- 12x8: Cas being so worried about what happened to Sam and DEAN that Kelly escaped.

- 12x9: Mary-“You left them!” Cas- *voice breaking* “Dean told me to go!” Also, just Cas looking so hard for them.

- 12x9: Cas blaming himself for Sam and Dean being taken

- 12x9 Cas knowing how long the boys have been gone down to the hour.

- 12x9: Cas’s voice and eyes when he hears Dean’s voice on the phone.

- 12x9: Cas killing Billie because “You mean too much to me” and “The world needs as many Winchesters as it can get.”

- 12x10: Poor Sam having to deal with Cas and Dean while they fight like an old married couple.

- 12x10: Dean immediately telling Ishim to go to hell when he insults Cas

- 12x10: Sam telling Dean to go to Cas when Dean thought Cas was in trouble

- 12x10: Cas immediately believing Dean about Ishim even though they’re mad at each other. Dean about to let Ishim kill him to save Cas.

- 12x10: Ishim comparing Dean and Cas’s relationship to Ishims relationship with his human lover, then saying he was going to cut Cas’s human weakness

- 12x11: “And Cas is my best friend.”

- 12x12: Dean about Cas- “My shy but devastatingly handsome friend here...”

- 12x12: Dean stressing out and voice breaking as he tries to comfort poisoned Cas

- 12x12: LITERALLY TOLD DEAN THAT HE LOVED HIM WHILE CAS WAS DYING

- 12x12: *looking at Dean* “I love you.” Then adds “I love all of you”

- 12x12: Cas- “Run.” Dean- “Cas, no.”

- 12x12: The look Dean gives Cas when he won’t stop staring at him after he’s healed.

- 12x14: Dean says some very harsh stuff to Mary after finding out the reason they Cas almost died at the lake house was because Mary was working for the British Men of Letters

- 12x15: Dean could tell something was up with Cas after talking to him for less than a minute, over the phone.

- 12x18: Sam trying to make Dean feel better about not hearing from Cas.

- 12x19: Dean literally always acting like a scorned wife when Cas comes back after long periods of time

- 12x19: Dean made Cas a mixtape

- 12x19: Cas- “I ~needed~ to came back here with a win for you.”

- 12x19: Cas- *gesturing between Dean and himself* “You mean... we?” Dean- “Yes, dumbass, we.”

- 12x23: Dean screaming for Cas when he attacks Lucifer and trying to chase after him forcing Sam to drag Dean back through the rift. A direct parallel to Dean pulling Sam away from Jess and the fire in Pilot

- 12x23: Dean kneeling next to Cas’s dead body looking up at the sky completely devastated.

- 13x1: Dean couldn’t bring himself to say dead when referring to Cas

- 13x1: Dean PRAYED to GOD to bring Cas back

- 13x1: “We just lost ~everything~. And now you’re gonna bring ~him~ back.”

- 13x1: Dean personally wrapping Cas’s body and giving him a hunters funeral.

- 13x1: The look of complete devastation on Dean’s face when he burns Cas’s body.

- 13x3: Dean refusing to help save Jack because he blames him for manipulating Cas and getting him killed.

- 13x4: The Empty to Cas: “I know what you love, what you fear. There is nothing for you back there.” He loves Dean and Cas fears that Dean doesn’t love him back.

- 13x5: Sam being worried about Dean who has given up all hope since Cas died.

- 13x5: Dean being so distressed thinking Cas is gone forever that he tries to kill himself

- 13x5: Dean seeing Cas alive again and they both have tears in their eyes.

- 13x6: Dean hugging Cas and saying he’s been gone for “too damn long”

- 13x6: Dean being immediately happier and nicer to everyone once Cas is back

- 13x6: Cas saying “Yes. Yes, he does” (in response to Jack saying Dean really likes cowboys) with the tone of an exhausted spouse.

- 13x6: “I told you, he’s an angry sleeper. Like a bear.”

- 13x6: Dean made Cas watch Tombstone with him.

- 13x6: Dean and Cas dresses like cowboy husbands.

- 13x6: Cas saying “I’m your huckleberry” to Dean in a deep accent and Dean looking away.

- 13x6: Their undercover names are Russel and Kilmer

- 13x14: The whole scene where Cas and Dean fight Gog/Magog and act like an old married couple.

- 13x14: The angry, dark look Cas gives Donatello when he tries to kill Dean

- 13x16: “Dean has him by the thigh!” Cas, jealously: “He ~what~?”

- 13x16: “and that includes the Cartwright twins.” Cas, again jealously: “what did you do with the Cartwright twins?”

- 13x19: Cas angrily confronting Naomi about forcing him to kill a bunch of Dean clones.

- 13x21: Cas secretly sliding Dean more pizza when Mary and Sam left the room.

- 13x21: Cas having to hold Dean back from going after Sam. Dean would have beat the shit out of anyone else who tried to stop him.

- 13x23: Cas trying to stop Dean from giving himself to Michael even if it meant losing Sam AND Jack

- 13x23: Cas sitting alone in the bum jet with tears in his eyes after Dean left

- 14x1: Demon: “How is it you lost Dean. I thought you two were joined at the... everything.”

- 14x1: Dean trying to save Cas from Lucifer then vs Cas trying to save Dean from Michael now

- 14x3: The look that Dean and Cas give each other when Dean comes home.

- 14x9: Cas almost being happy seeing Dean happy. And then having to force himself to not be happy so he doesn’t die.

- 14x12: Cas being phased at Dean for wanting to put himself in the box with Michael forever

- 14x14: Cas is the only Dean will let talk to him about Michael and be honest about how Dean feels

- 14x14: “No, it’s on us.”

- 14x14: Cas’s voice breaking when he talks about the possibility of Dean dying one day.

- 14x18: The pure self loathing in Cas’s eyes when he feels like he failed Dean by not telling him about Jack’s soul.

- 15x2: “You asked ‘what about all of this is real?’ We are.” THE MOST ROMANTIC LINE EVER. (Plus later Eileen and Sam have the same conversation but they get to kiss because homophobia)

- 15x9- 20:00 Dean said that they lost everyone they cared about, then added Cas specifically. Then he says “I had to bury him” not “we”

- 15x9- 23:00 Dean cries when he can’t find Cas. Then he prays to him and apologizes for letting him go. He falls to his knees praying to him and fully crying

- 15x12: “I created the world.” *shows Destiel*

- 15x15: This time when Dean sees Cas leaving the bunker, he stops him. (In reference to Cas saying “you didn’t stop me” when Dean got mad at him for leaving)

- 15x16: This is the the only version of Cas that rebelled for Dean. This universe is literally being saved repeatedly because of Cas’s love for Dean

- 15x18: CAS CONFESSES HIS LOVE TO DEAN then goes to mega hell for being gay

Anyway, Cas loves Dean and Dean LOVES HIM BACK, OKAY?!?!? Feel free to add more

[harryhoney-bee]

I'm feeling really soft and fuzzy today, So if I can request something I want to do that abeja 🐝💓

#Concept: Nightly routine with y/n and Harry- parents of two little babies.

Tag me if you write this baby ✨✨

Adore you alot 💕

Night Routine

Warning: your ovaries might explode... mine did 🤚🏻 I would give this man 9 children if he asked.

Word count: 1.7k

I have a kofi, so please consider buying me coffee if you can <3

I hope you enjoy it!! Let me know what you think 😚

“But I want to take a beth with him, daddy,” Cecília whined to Harry, while he undressed her, putting her new pajamas and towel on the bathroom counter.

“My little darling, he is still little, he can’t take bath with you,” Harry explained, taking Cecí on his lap and putting her inside the warm tub, handing her some of her favorite toys. “Lorenzo is just 6 months, he’s not as big as you.”

Harry made a bowl with his hands, wetting her curly hair and applying shampoo, a pout still on her face. “Please, daddy?” she said, her chubby hand grabbing his arm. Cecí had already mastered her puppy eyes technique, and she knew how much her dad had a weak spot for her.

“Alright, alright,” He finally gave in, “but he will stay outside of the tub, he doesn’t know how to sit by himself.”

“Thank you, daddy!” The girl splashed water around in excitement, which made Harry smile. That’s how he always wanted to see her: happy and healthy.

Harry went to the door, keeping an eye on the girl in the tub. “Baby? Are you done nursing? Cecí wants to see Lorenzo,” he tried to call his wife as loud as he could while being mindful of Lorenzo, who could be asleep by now. He never wanted to alarm any of him or Cecília with his loud voice.

In a matter of seconds, Y/n appeared in the hallway, a confused expression on her face while Lorenzo was calmly laying down on her arms, his little hands resting on Y/n’s shoulders. “What’s wrong? Why does she want to see him? We just had diner together,” she asked, heading in Harry’s direction.

“I’m not sure, guess she just missed him,” Harry answered, giving his wife a kiss on the forehead and bending down to talk to a very awake Lorenzo. “But who wouldn’t miss you, huh? Such a cutie, right buddy?” he was aware that using a baby voice wasn’t the best, but he couldn’t help, Lorenzo was just extremely adorable.

“Mommy! Enzo!” Cecília called, from the opposite side of the bathroom, “come here mommy, miss you too.”

Y/n sat on the bathroom floor, Lorenzo still with her. “Hey, my heart, having a good bath with daddy?” she asked at the same time Harry sat down by her side and hugged her from the side, laying his chin on her head.

“Yeah! Daddy always let me play,” Cecília took one of the yellow ducks and showed her mom, “This is Mc Duck.”

“Wow, he’s a very beautiful duck isn’t he?” She asked, giving Lorenzo to Harry while kneeling near the bathtub since Cecí still had to wash her hair, Y/n gently took the excess of shampoo from the girl’s hair, while Harry tried to keep Lorenzo entertained by singing him a silly song.

“He is, I love yellow,” the little girl admitted, “I think Lorenzo loves yellows too.”

“And why do you think that, Cecí?” Harry asked amused while pretending to eat the boy’s fingers.

“Because we’re are best friends,” She said as if the answer was obvious, “and friends like the same things.” Y/n and Harry looked at each other and laughed, for a five-year-old girl she knew a lot about relationships.

“Oh, how do you know that?” Y/n asked, finishing washing her hair, letting Cecília enjoy her time in the bath.

“Because you and daddy are best friends, you wear the same clothes sometimes, listen to the same music, and watch the same movies,” with every new topic she would count down on her fingers, it was quite a comical sight.

Harry’s chuckle filled the room, the baby on his lap giggled too. “Well, my little lady, you are right. But friends can also like different things, too,” he told her. “Me and mommy like a lot of similar things, but we also have our preferences.”

“Exactly, daddy loves bananas, but I don’t” y/n complemented, getting Cecília out of the tub, helping her into some warm clothes, “I don’t like to work out, but your dad always wakes up early to go for a run, see? We like different things but we still love each other.”

Harry got up from the floor, rocking Lorenzo softly, his heavy eyes indicating how sleepy the baby was. He took the combing cream in his hand and began combing Cecília’s curls with one hand, while his other arm held Lorenzo. Being a father of two made him very talented at doing two things at the same time. While he did that, Y/n was getting Cecí’s toothpaste ready.

“Daddy, do you love mommy even if she doesn’t go running with you?” Cecí asked, before opening her mouth so Y/n could brush her teeth. Normally they would let Cecília do it by herself, with their supervision, but it was already late and the couple desperately needed to get the children to bed, or else their routine would be messed up. Good thing Lorenzo seemed to be falling asleep already.

“Of course I do! We don’t love people just because they do the same things we do, we love people because they are kind and respectful to us, yeah?” Harry said, looking at Y/n and blowing her a kiss. This is what he loved the most about parenthood: watching the kids growing into their best version.

Parenting was made in many different ways, but the couple especially loved having these kinds of conversations. Even though Cecília was still young, she was already beginning to comprehend what love and friendships were, and Harry and Y/n had the privilege to teach her that.

Harry finished her hair, putting the brush and the products in their place under the sink while Y/n put on some socks on Cecí’s feet, the little girl was yawning, seeming tired. Lorenzo started to fussy on Harry’s arms.

“Guess it’s time to sleep, huh?” Harry said, caressing Cecílias head, “Tired, my baby? Want daddy to read a bedtime story to you? Or do you want mommy?” At the same time he mentioned Y/n, Lorenzo started to soft cry. “Hey, what’s wrong?” Harry asked, looking down at the upset’s baby face.”

Y/n took his from Harry’s arms, cuddling him closer to her chest, “What do you want, Enzo? Mommy just fed you” she looked at her husband, “I’ll nurse him again on the bed, he’s probably just a bit agitated, will you put her to sleep?”

“Yeah, of course.”

The woman kissed Cecília on the forehead, “have a good night, ok, baby? Mommy will take you to the playground tomorrow, alright?”

“Ok mommy, I love you and little bro too,” she said, giving a hug to her mom before she disappeared through the door with the crying baby.

Harry took Cecília by her small hand, leading them to her room, just by the side of the main suite, where the couple slept. He guided the little girl to her bed, giving her all of her favorite stuffed animals, and covered Cecília in her Lilac duvet.

“What story do you want today?

“The pirate one, please,” she asked, laying her head on the pillow as Harry went to her bookshelf, picking the one with the title Pirate’s cove. He sat by the end of the bed and began telling the story.

“I have a story for you, a story of untold riches and a young lad who found them. And who am I, you ask? Well, I am the spirit of the sand-dollar, a pirate and a buccaneer, Captain of the seahorse, the finest ship to ever sail the seven seas…”

Harry would occasionally stop to answer any questions Cecília had, but after 15 minutes he was done with the book and the girl was fast asleep, hugging tight to her little lamb. He made sure she was tucked in and turned off the lights (besides the one on the side of Cecília’s bed, she was scared to sleep in a pitch-black room), he closed the door and headed to his bedroom.

To Harry’s surprise, Lorenzo was sleeping in his bassinet by the side of the mattress. He usually would sleep in his nursery, but today just seemed like an off day to the little boy. Harry got closer to him, stroking the chubby cheeks, “Oh my little bug, did mommy let you sleep here with us? You’re not feeling fine?”

“I think he’s teething,” Y/n said in a raspy voice, taking her head from the pillow, “he’s even a bit warmer than usual, I think his gums are itching.”

“My poor baby,” Harry mumbled, turning his head to Y/n, “I hate seeing him upset, maybe we could make some homemade Popsicle, it helped when Cecília was teething.”

“Yeah, we can try that, we can make them tomorrow.” she patted the mattress, “now please come to bed, he did a number on me, I’m so tired.”

“Alright baby,” Harry took off his shirt, standing only in sweatpants, he went to the bed, laying by Y/n side, one arm hooked on her waist as she cuddled to him, placing her head on his shoulder.

“I’m so lucky to have you,” Y/n said against his neck.

“Oh baby, I am the lu--”

“--I mean, how many husbands would still love their wives even if they wouldn’t go jogging at 6 in the morning?” she said teasingly, her giggles reaching his ear.

He rolled his eyes playfully, “you are making a lot of jokes for someone who is tired,” he kissed her temple. “I’m gonna wake you up at 5 am tomorrow, so we can be fitness together.”

“Don’t you dare! You do that and your plan of being a father to three it’s over.”

“Damn sweetheart, that’s not very nice, huh?”

“You’re the one who started,” she said, before closing her eyes, snuggling to Harry’s body. The man placed a hand on her belly, falling asleep minutes later.

Tag list: @sunandherflores @elenagilbert01 @bellelittleoff, @cheshire-salvatore-mikaelson

If you don't want to be in the tag list just let me know, please!! <3

[mypoisonedvine]

vignettes of a bond || alpha!bucky barnes x omega!reader

I originally wrote this in two parts for my sleepover but after I realized how long it accidentally became, I've reformatted it, added/changed a few things, and made into a oneshot!

word count: 3.1k

warnings: smut, angst, knotting, violence

June 2nd, 1943, 11:43 p.m., James Barnes’ bedroom

“I wanna do it, before I go,” he whispered against your skin. “But I know it’s wrong. It’s too cruel.”

“No, please,” you whimpered, “I want it. I want your mark.”

Bucky pulled back for a moment and you examined your Alpha’s face carefully, knowing it might be the last time for a long time. “I couldn’t bond to you and then leave you. It wouldn’t be fair… you deserve to find somebody who can stay, and be with you, and protect you.”

“All I want is you,” you whispered. “Please, Alpha… bite me.”

You saw him hesitate for a moment before he leaned in and sucked at your neck, building the anticipation before he finally sunk his teeth into your skin and you cried out, one single tear rolling down your cheek. “Mine,” he growled against your skin as he lapped at the healing wound, “my Omega. Forever.”

“Yours, only yours,” you agreed eagerly.

It wasn’t the first time Bucky had taken you, but that night he really and truly claimed you, left you a desperate begging mess, stretched out over his knot as he filled you over and over.

The next morning, you were still sore between your legs as well as on your new mark, and it took everything in you to be strong as you saw him off at the train station, waving goodbye and praying that your Alpha would return to you soon.

November 9th, 1943, 2:24 p.m., undercover SHIELD facility

“You promised Bucky you’d take care of me,” you reminded him with a little smile, wiping a tear from your cheek.

“I know,” Steve relented, “but we both know I can’t do that. Not in this state. But maybe I can protect you if I do this. Maybe I can protect my country. I owe it to everyone, especially Bucky, to try.”

You nodded. “But I’ll miss you.”

“I’ll miss you too. Come see me before I ship out for good, alright?”

“Of course,” you agreed.

December 27th, 1943, 8:32 a.m., your front porch

“You’re lying,” you gasped as you shook your head. “You’re wrong, no, it’s not true.”

“It is,” Steve promised as tears welled in his eyes, “I’m so so sorry, I saw it myself, I had to watch him fall…”

“It’s not true! He’s not dead!”

“I know he loved you so much. He talked about every day, he couldn’t wait to come home to you,” Steve remembered, choking up noticeably. “But he won’t. He’s gone.”

“You don’t understand, I know, okay? I know.”

“You’re in shock, I understand, it’s hard to lose your mate—”

“You’re a beta, you wouldn’t understand,” you dismissed; sure, he looked like an alpha now, but it didn’t make a difference. “Omegas, we know when our Alpha dies, we feel it, it kills us. He’s far away, but he’s still there, I still feel him!”

Steve held you as you sobbed, your body crumpling into his arms. Sometimes you thought maybe he held you too tight on accident because he was still getting used to his new strength; other times you thought he did it on purpose.

February 3rd, 1944, 12:00 p.m., undercover SHIELD facility

“Even when I had nothing, I had Steve,” you recalled shakily, “and now he’s gone too.”

“Is that why you’re volunteering?” Agent Carter asked you. “Because you’d rather sleep for a hundred years than live without your mate and your best friend?”

“I’m volunteering because my mate and my best friend died for SHIELD,” you corrected firmly, “and if I’m not willing to also, then I’m admitting I think they went to waste.”

“Steve told me you didn’t think Bucky was dead,” Peggy remembered.

You winced. “I’m not sure. But I know he’s not coming home again. I came here to give whatever I could to help find him… I was asked to participate in a cryogenics research study. If it helps him, then I’ll do it.”

She was about to get up, apparently satisfied with your final interview, but you stopped her.

“On one condition,” you added. “If James Barnes is found, alive or dead, wake me up to see him.”

She nodded, stepping out of the room and leaving you alone again.

May 8th, 2012, SHIELD headquarters

“Can you hear me?”

You slowly blinked awake, your vision taking a moment to catch up with your mind. You saw tubes coming out of your arms; you saw Steve above you, looking like the day you saw him last.

“Did you find Bucky?” you asked instantly. Why else would they wake you up?

“No,” Steve answered, seemingly a bit disappointed that that was your first and only question.

“Then put me back to sleep,” you demanded.

“It’s been 68 years,” he told you. “You’ve slept for 68 years. It’s time to wake up.”

And you did, more than you ever wanted to, because you realized you couldn’t feel him anymore. Your Alpha was gone. Worse, he probably died while you were asleep; he probably died alone.

One more time, like he had 68 years ago, Steve held you while you sobbed.

August 1st, 2014, 2:11 a.m., Avengers compound, Steve Rogers’ quarters

You ran into Steve’s room barefoot and still in your pajamas, barreling through the door and right into his bed.

“Steve, I feel him!” you rushed.

“What?” he groaned sleepily, looking up at you as he blinked in confusion.

“I feel him again, he’s alive,” you explained. “I know it. He’s weak… he’s hurting… but he’s there.”

“That’s impossible,” Steve shook his head. “It’s been too long, he would’ve died of old age anyways.”

“Don’t you want to believe it? Don’t you want to think he’s out there?”

“Do I want to think he’s alone and I didn’t save him?” Steve hissed. “No, I can’t say that I particularly do!”

“But we still can, Steve, we just have to find h—”

But before you could finish, the feeling left you, and you were just half of something again.

“Oh,” you breathed.

“He’s gone again?” Steve realized.

You nodded, biting your lip as it started to quiver. He sighed and pulled you into a hug. “If I could just see his body, and know it was over,” you whispered, “if I could just bury him, have a funeral…”

“We’ll have one,” Steve decided, “after this mission. We’ll put him to rest. He deserves that, and so do you.”

You nodded into his shoulder. It shattered you into a million pieces but it was still the better option, to try to let him go in whatever small way you could. He would always, always, always be your Alpha, nothing could change that, but a funeral would at least bring some closure.

That would have to wait until after your next mission though… and it was going to be a big one: tracking the elusive Winter Soldier.

August 3rd, 2014, 1:14 p.m., Lower East side

You were a few blocks away, helping civilians escape the firefight, when you felt it.

For one impossibly brief moment, you felt him, stronger than you had in nearly 80 years. He was here.

You instantly got up and ran like you’d never run before, finding the Soldier and Steve locked in a brutal showdown— but his mask was gone now, and you nearly fell to your knees at the sight of him.

“Bucky!” you yelped, but you knew he wasn’t there or you would’ve felt his presence. Your Alpha was somewhere underneath the shell that wore his face, and you needed to find him.

You ran forward just as Steve made a break for it, getting to him just in time to stand between the Soldier and his mission.

“Alpha, please,” you whimpered, clutching at his chest. A metal hand backhanded you to the ground.

“Out of my way, Omega,” he growled, stepping over you, but you grabbed at his ankles even when he tried to kick you away.

“My mark,” you explained hastily, pulling your shirt down some to make sure it was visible. “It’s yours. Do you remember? You gave me this. This is your mark on me.”

He stared down at you, seeming to be contemplating it, and you scrambled back to your feet and faced him.

“I still feel you,” you whispered. “I knew you were alive, I knew you’d come back to me. I could feel you, right here,” you explained as you took his hand and placed it on your chest. “Could you feel me? Did you know I was waiting for you all this time?”

His eyes were watering but he still seemed confused— stunned, more specifically, as you placed your hand on his chest.

“I’ll always be yours, Bucky. I’ll always be your Omega, no matter where you are.”

A stun gun took you down, an array of masked men appeared, and before he could really see you for what you were, he was dragged away and taken to be erased again.

August 3rd, 2014, 9:04 p.m., Avengers compound, medical bay

“I can’t believe we let them get away,” Steve lamented, resting his face in his hands. “I can’t believe they took him again…”

“They’ll be back,” you promised sternly. “They’re going to figure out what I am to him. They’re going to realize I could break his programming. And they’re going to come for me.”

“And when they do?” Steve pressed.

“We’ll be ready. And I’ll get my Alpha back.”

August 3rd, 2014, 9:04 p.m., temporary HYDRA operations facility

"The woman on the bridge... the Omega..." Bucky mumbled. "She knew me... she had my mark."

"No she didn't."

He furrowed his brow. "She showed me..."

Pierce sighed, glancing over to the HYDRA scientist who looked back at him sternly.

"She's too dangerous to be left alive," the man sighed, shrugging in his lab coat. "We can't deprogram a bond like that."

"We'll take care of her," Pierce promised.

Bucky launched from the chair, snapping his restraints like paper. "Touch her and I'll fucking kill you!" he bellowed, tackling his handler to the ground.

Pierce just laughed as another scientist jabbed Bucky with a needle, dosing him with something strong enough to kill any other man but just enough to knock out a super soldier. Pierce stood up and dusted himself off as he watched Bucky go limp and be lifted back into his chair.

"I can see the fight in your eyes, Soldier," he taunted as he leaned into his face. "I know you really would kill me, if you could. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak, right? But don't worry about your mate, we'll make it quick and painless. Hey, maybe beforehand me and a few of the other Alphas will show her a good time, poor thing's been without her mate for 70 years... I bet she's raring to go."

Bucky's arm twitched as his eyes started to fall shut, a tear falling down his blank and motionless face.

"Wipe him," Pierce instructed to the scientist, turning and walking away as the electric whirr of the machine charging up filled the room.

August 11th, 2014, 3:53 p.m., SHIELD headquarters

Steve was impressed with how accurate and imminent your prediction was; HYDRA was hot on your trail and desperate to eliminate the biggest threat to their Asset. Knowing they were coming made it easier, but it was still a brutal fight.

You and Steve tried to stay together, but they were smart, they used the perfect bait to lure you away.

"Tell me where he is," you demanded from the HYDRA agent as you held a blade to his neck, "then I'll kill you."

"Isn't it supposed to be 'or I'll kill you'?" he frowned.

You shook your head. "Not the way I operate."

Opposite to the reaction you were expecting, he grinned widely. "He's here."

Your heart stopped.

"On the roof. He's here to kill you."

You dropped the knife and ran straight for the stairwell, ascending them like they were nothing and calling out for your Alpha.

You found him there, waiting, gun trained on you. Raising your hands in surrender, you yelled to him again.

"Bucky," you called across the windy roof, eyes nearly blinded by the bright afternoon sun. "Alpha."

"I'm not who you think I am," he yelled back. "I'm not your Alpha."

It hurt to hear it in his voice, but you knew it wasn't him. Cautiously, you stepped closer. "Before you left, you told me you didn't want to mark me and leave me behind," you recalled. "But I wanted it. I wanted to be bonded to you more than I'd ever wanted anything."

He could clearly see you were coming closer, he even tightened his finger over the trigger of his weapon, but he was waiting. You kept walking to him, slowly.

"I've never regretted it," you continued, "not even when I thought you were dead, not even when I had to spent a lifetime-- more than that-- apart from you."

Finally you were face to face, and you stepped closer until his gun was pressed right into your chest.

"You can shoot me now and I still won't regret it," you promised. "I love you."

Shakily, he lowered his weapon. "Omega..." he breathed.

"Your Omega."

He pulled you into him and you sobbed as you felt him come to life in your arms-- the real him, your Alpha, your Bucky. He held you close and breathed against the top of your head and it was like a dream coming true decades after you'd forced yourself to let it go.

But you'd never given up. And now you had found him again.

Agents started to come onto the roof and Bucky spun the two of you around, firing with his right hand and using the left, metal arm as a shield for you.

He carried you and you didn't even know where he was taking you, but it didn't matter. In his arms, you were home.

August 12th, 1:03 a.m., Avengers compound, your quarters

You hadn't stopped coming or crying for at least an hour. Bucky had all but split you open on his knot all night and he didn't show any signs of stopping.

He apparently intended to make up for lost time. And you'd lost a lot of time.

"Just one more, I know you can give me one more," he groaned furiously rubbing your clit as his knot began to swell again.

You could give him anything, as long as he asked for it like that.

You'd lost count of how many times he'd told you to come for him, and how many times you did it immediately.

"I can see how full you are," he whispered as he rubbed your stomach gently. "So much seed in you that your body can't hold it all."

You looked down and yep, you were distinctly bloated from his come alone; it made you a little dizzy to even look at it.

"The idea of you alone during your heats, no one to protect you, it kills me," he explained with a growl. "I won't let you go again. I can't."

"Then don't," you sighed. "Never leave this bed, fill me with everything you have."

"Did anybody ever help you through them? The heats?" he asked. "I wouldn't blame you, they can be so painful... I just need to know so I can make sure you forget about them."

"No, Bucky, never— I never let anyone touch me."

"Steve could've helped you, at least some..."

"He wouldn't have, he loves you too much. And I wouldn't accept anything less than you, ever. You're my Alpha. We're bonded. There's never anyone else."

That didn't seem to satisfy him, his eyes darting away as he swallowed. Your gut sank with the realization he probably wasn't being totally honest about why he asked.

"Your ruts," you gasped. "Were you alone for all of them?"

He shut his lips tighter.

"Bucky, it's okay, just tell me. I was asleep for 70 years, I skipped most of them, but you... you had to live through them all."

"They gave me betas, and omegas," he mumbled, "but I don't... I don't really remember. I know they wanted me to. They threatened to hurt me if I didn't, because they knew I'd go crazy after so many ruts alone, but I can't remember if I really did it. I remember... I remember crying, and begging for you."

"Alpha," you breathed as you felt new tears run over the stains of your old ones. "It's okay. Whatever happened, it's okay now. We're together again. Everything's okay."

You wiped his tear away with your thumb, holding his face tightly, weaving your fingers into his long hair.

"I'll always be your Omega," you promised.

He leaned in closer to you, kissing your cheek before pulling back a little. "It's faded," he whispered as he ran his thumb over the mark on your neck. "The last time I saw it, it was still fresh."

"It's older, sure, but it's stronger than ever, Bucky."

August 14th, 10:12 a.m., Avengers compound, residential area kitchen

Steve's eyes went wide when he came into the kitchen for breakfast and found you there, steeping your tea. "Surprised to see you out of the love nest so soon," he smirked.

"It's been three days, I don't think that counts as soon," you scoffed.

"It does to him," Steve frowned. "He's asleep, isn't he?"

"Yep."

"I know he wouldn't let you out of his sights if he was conscious," Steve chuckled.

At that moment, you heard Bucky call your name and run out into the hall, only a bedsheet covering his groin as he appeared in the doorway. You spun around and smiled when you saw him come running towards you, embracing you with his free arm.

"You should've told me you were leaving, I got scared when I woke up without you," he admitted weakly.

"Oh, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to make you worry!"

He pulled back and clutched your face in both his hands. "I'm waking up next to you every morning for the rest of my life, you understand?"

You nodded dutifully. "Yes, Alpha."

"One hand on the sheet, please, Buck?" Steve winced, looking away.

“Whoops,” Bucky groaned, reaching to cover himself as you laughed softly.

“Let’s go back to bed, baby,” you decided quietly, taking Bucky’s (free) hand in yours and waving goodbye to Steve, who was already making his way as far out of earshot as possible.

[lilchibi-chan]

part 1

part 2

part 3

Hawks Mafia AU x Reader Pt 4 (part 1)

Hawks makes his way to the elevator of your apartment building and rides it down to the lobby. All the while, thinking about the ensuing war and what he can do to protect you.

This isn’t his first rodeo, but this time it’s different. He has someone he cares for, someone to protect. If Twice were to find out about you, that would crush him. He doesn’t want this to get any bigger than what it is.

It’s the next morning, 6 am to be exact. You hadn’t slept a wink. You make your way to the kitchen to heat up some water in your tea kettle. You take out a packet of tea from one of the cabinets and grab a mug to set your tea bag in.

You spent the whole night thinking. Thinking about Hawks. Thinking about when you’ll return to work. IF you wanted to go back to work at the diner.

You were still shaken up, as anyone would be in that situation, but you also knew you had to get back eventually.

You let out a heavy sigh.

Your tea kettle started going off with a loud whistle. You pour the boiling water into your mug, holding the small tab of your tea bag to prevent it from falling in. You let the tea steep a little before removing the tea bag to add milk and sugar.

You head over to your couch carefully holding your tea, as to not burn yourself with the hot liquid.

You place the tea on the coffee table and pick up the tv remote. You start to flick through the channels, despite knowing that the only thing really on at this time was the news and paid programming. You decide to look through Disney channel and Nickelodeon before finally deciding to watch spongebob.

You honestly just wanted it for the background noise, so you kept the volume low.

You return the tv remote to its spot on the table and pick up your mug. You gently blow and bring the mug to your lips.

You feel the warmth of the tea flowing throughout your whole body, as well as a sense of calm taking over.

You place your mug on the end table next to you, so that you didn’t have to keep sitting up for it every time you wanted some.

As time passed and the more tea you drank, you felt your eye lids getting heavier and heavier. Sleep finally taking over your body.

You decide to go to your bed, so you could sleep comfortably.

You lay down and instantly, the bed starts hugging every curve of your body and within an instant you drift off to sleep.

You start to dream even.

A soft breeze, started hitting your face. It felt like spring. You open your eyes to see a peach colored sky and flower petals falling from the trees.

The petals lightly floating in the breeze, caressing your hair and skin every so often.

You continue you to look up at the sky and it starts to turn a crimson red color. The clouds turn black. The flower petals that once caressed your face are no longer, as they turned into ash. Falling from the sky like black snow.

A hand comes around and grips your face to cover your mouth.

You start to hear a sinister laugh, followed by a menacing voice.

“He really thought I would never find you” the voice says, followed by another laugh

The hand moves from your mouth to the back of your head swiftly and you soon felt your head being pushed to the ground with excessive force, but before you could hit the ground, you wake up.

You look at your alarm clock and it’s 9 am. The shock of the dream still hitting you. A lump forming in your throat from the fear.

“What was that dream” you think to yourself

You decide to check your phone and notice you have a couple missed calls from Hawks, your boss and your best friend.

You decide to call your best friend first since you haven’t spoken to them since you both worked a shift together prior to the incident. They’re actually the reason you got a job at the diner in the first place. You’ve known each other forever and even made sure to get in the same college, even if you didn’t end up rooming together.

They started working at the diner before you did and put in a good word with the owner, who is also your boss, and you started work a couple days later.

“Hey girlyyy~” they say excitedly

“Hey,” you say, trying to match their energy

“How are you feeling?,” they start,“I’ve been trying to check on you, but I also didn’t want to corner you or your emotions if I called or texted too much”

You let out a small sigh/laugh.

“I’ve been holding up. Honestly, I’ve been kinda distracted to really stop and think about it,” you say, your voice coming out happier at the thought of your very handsome distraction

“Oh?” they say interested,“details please”

You giggle

“His name is Hawks and he’s actually one of our regulars”

“Which one?”

“He has blonde hair, these really beautiful, amber colored eyes and always wears like REALLY nice suits. Like nicer than all the other men that come into the diner.”

“OHHH,” they say realizing who you’re talking about,“oh he’s fuckin hot”

This causes you to laugh

“Hm really? I haven’t noticed,” you say

“Oh you so totally have,” they say teasing you

You laugh

“I was just joking,” you say smiling,“I have definitely noticed, but he’s also very mysterious and kind. He’s actually the one who helped me that night. If he wasn’t there I-”

“Hey, you don’t have to think about that. All that matters is yourself now and the scumbag can’t lay a hand on you again”

“You don’t know that though. If I go back, how do we know he won’t try anything?”

It was quiet for a second

“You’re right. I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have said that. I wasn’t thinking”

“I-it’s okay. I’m sorry for snapping at you. You were just trying to be positive and-”

“Dude, you literally have every right to snap at me. You went through something traumatic. Something I can’t even begin to understand how it feels, no matter how hard I try. I shouldn’t have said what I said, so thank you for holding me accountable,” they say reassuring you

Again it’s quiet. You try to fight the tears from forming, but you feel your eyes start to fill up.

“…I was so scared. I thought he was gonna-”

“I’m coming over,” they say as soon as they hear you crying,“should be to you in about 5 minutes. see you soon.”

You try and pull yourself together before your best friend arrives, but the tears continue to fall. You haven’t cried until now and it just feels like everything is hitting you all at once. Like a dam that held in too much and finally cracked.

Your best friend makes it to your door in exactly five minutes and rushes inside, surprising you a bit.

Seeing the tears streaming down your face, they immediately pull you into a hug and rub your back.

“Let it out babes”

****************************************************

Once you get your bearings, your best friend makes you a cup of tea to help calm your nerves.

“Careful, it’s hot,” they say handing you the mug

You give a small smile, as a way to say thank you.

They join you again on the sofa, adjusting the blanket you have over your legs and put their legs under as well.

“Ya know, that’s the first time I’ve cried since the attack happened,” you say

“Sometimes when people go through something traumatic, their emotions can shut down. You probably held it in for so long that you finally just broke,” they start

“Y/n, you went through something so incredibly horrible and I can’t even begin to imagine the pain you’re feeling, but I am always here you and it is okay to cry and be angry and feel hurt. Whenever you need to cry or feel like you want to hit something, just do it,” they end, never breaking eye contact with you

“I’ve spent this whole time..basically distracting myself. Telling myself ‘no, this won’t break me’ and now here I am,” you say, a small laugh/scoff escaping your mouth,“I can’t let him take my power away from me. I refuse.”

“And he won’t. Y/n, you are not broken because of this. You have always been resilient, no matter what you’ve had to face and I know that you can will get past this. It’s gonna take time and a lot of healing, but you will come out on the other side.”

You lay across to the other side of the couch, hugging your best friend’s waist. They hug you back and rub your shoulder.

Tears slowly leave your eyes, until you let sleep take over.

******************************************************

When you wake up, it’s 4 pm. You basically missed the whole day, but that was the last thing on your mind.

You realize your best friend’s legs were no longer under your head, so you sit up to look around for any sign of them still being in your apartment.

You see a note on your end table.

went out to get food to make dinner ♥️

You hear knocks at your door and decide to check your best friends location. You see they’re still at the grocery store and have been for the past few minutes.

“who could that be” you think to yourself

You look through the peep hole and see Hawks standing there.

“H-Hawks, w-what’re you doing here,” you ask slightly in shock, but happy for the most part

“Well, I called and you didn’t answer, so I got worried. I just wanted to make sure you were okay,” he speaks honestly

“Yeah, I’m okay…physically. It’s been…kind of a rough day,” you say, not making eye contact with him

You feel his arms wrap around you and he starts to rub your back.

He walks you back into the apartment, so that you weren’t left standing in the hallway and closes the door behind the both of you.

When you pull away from the hug, you look up at him and he kisses your forehead.

Art by cherryviii

Thank you so much for reading !! I’m splitting this in two parts because I have held it hostage for long enough 😂

Working on part two neow!!!