#snack had. argument avoided. zero feelings hurt

[stopgorepeat]

Damn stopping a conversation and announcing that I need to eat and immediately leaving to grab a snack before continuing is a fucking game changer.

[defeatedbyamerechild]

Do you have an opinion on what kind of parents would the canonically childless villains be?

Ooooh yes!!! I have a few ideas! ^^

Archie: “Kid” Dad!

Archie would be that kind of dad that kids absolutely adore, but teenagers cringe at. He is the super friendly and funny dad who is always playing with the kids and making jokes and trying to be friends with their friends, which usually is very cool when the child is small but becomes a bit cringy later on. Archie is very childish in my headcanon, so he might face difficulties when watching his child grow up and become, well... more mature than him, most likely! XD He’d be a good dad, though. Very loving and understanding. Also, he’s pretty good at understanding people’s feelings, so after a few cringy moments with his kid, he’d understand what makes them embarrassed and what doesn’t, and he’d do his best to avoid it. At the same time he would be kinda cringy to his teenager, he would also be the first one to understand what the problem is as soon as something started bothering them. But he’s not the best dad at serious conversations, he’d rather leave those to Maxie, but give emotional support in every way he could.

Maxie: “Mom” Dad!

You know how there’s this “mother archetype” that the mom is more emotional, more responsible but also more soft. Gets angry a bit more easily, but also forgives more easily... Gets worried about their kids more often... You know the drill. We know not every mother is like that, of course, just like some dads are just like this. Maxie is one of them, My Maxie has many traits that might be described by old-fashioned people as “feminine” (not that it’s got anything to do with gender or biological sex, but you know how archetypes go). Also, Maxie loves cooking and does it very well, which also is present on the mother archetype. Maxie is overall more resposible than Archie, and a bit more strict, but not much. He is very understanding, but not that good at reading emotions, and sometimes lets his own fears and wrong impressions blur his understanding of how his child feels, making him over-think very often. He is also more desperate than Archie, because of his anxiety, so... He’ll be the first one to freak out once the teenager doesn’t show up before eleven like they said they would. Then it would be Archie who would assume the Responsible Role to calm him down and try to keep everything under control. Both would be good dads.

Cyrus: Righteous Dad!

Cyrus has had it rough as a child, and I definitely think he wouldn’t want to repeat his parents’ mistakes when raising his own kid. I feel like he would be rather strict, specially since he is very organized, literal and practical by nature, so he would have his rules and schedules that he would like his child to follow... But he would definitely be more understanding about them not following it than his parents were with him, and wouldn’t go for severe punishments, but for conversations instead. Also, I headcanon that the way children think is kinda fascinating to Cyrus, because he is such a literal person with such a practical mind... So I think his best quality as a dad would be that he LISTENS to children. Cyrus doesn’t see children as inferior or less complex, and he admires the way they interpret the world. He would listen and try to understand their logic. Explaining why something is a problem and coming up together with a solution would be his main strategy to deal with issues. If the problem persisted, he might resort to grounding, but grounding would always make sense, like “you didn’t clean your room, so you can’t go play now. You can go play after cleaning it, though.” instead of “You didn’t clean your room so you’re not getting that videogame you want” or another punishment that doesn’t have a logical connection between the problem and the consequence. However, Cyrus wouldn’t be the best with the emotional part, naturally. He has trouble expressing and reading feelings. That wouldn’t be a super huge problem because of how open for communication he would be, so his child could just go and say “you screwed up and I’m upset because of this” and he’d accept that argument and discuss it. Terrible at emotional advice, things might get complicated during teenagehood when emotional bursts showed up, because he’d go “I understand you are feeling like this because of hormones” and the teen would be like, crying his lungs off and yelling “SCREW HORMONES” and Cyrus would be like “what do I do”. Overall: one of the best dads for small kids, but would need help with teens.

Lysandre: Disaster Dad!

I just hope Lysandre never has a kid honestly.

I mean, seriously now. Lysandre in my comics would be a disaster, because he’s not... well... he is not psychologically and emotionally balanced. So I literally think he wouldn’t be able to raise a child, the kid would end up super spoiled and with zero boundaries regarding emotional expression. It would be that kid that thinks their feelings are more important than anyone elses, and every time they have a mild issue Lysandre would just go and say that “but my kid is right!” even if like... his kid had just punched another child out of the sudden. the kid would no know limits... At the same time, growing up with Lysandre would be confusing because on one second he is super happy and on the next one he’s crying, and the kid wouldn’t know what to expect from him... So yeah, teenagehood would get even harder than usual, they’d both spend half their lives crying and I honestly think there’s a huge chance the kid would run away from home eventually. Just a big nope. Horrible dad.

Outside of my comics, thinking about a more sane Lysandre... Hmm... I think he might be a decent dad. But I’m still pretty sure he would spoil the heck out of his kids. To be honest I don’t see Lysie being a father in my headcanons.

Guzma: Cool (disaster) Dad!

Guzma is the cool dad. The dad that acts very immature for his age, and that kids like, but teens LOVE. However, he’d be so irresponsible... I feel like Guzma would be that kind of dad who’s like “where the heck is that kid though?” like... his 5yo child just got out of their house and went away half an hour ago while he wasn’t looking and now he has no clue where the kid is. So yeah, that kid would grow up with a lot of friendly respect towards Guzma, but absolutely no sense of hierarchy. The kid would have lots of trouble in school and Guzma would barely care about that. He’d just go like “come on, kid, do your homework”, the kid wouldn’t do it and he’d be like “meh”. He would be more of a disaster with a small child, because the kid would definitely miss the sense of protection and guidance that having an adult around gives you at that age, and as I said, the kid might literally walk away and get lost... Also Guzma wouldn’t even cook for the kid, like... “dad I’m hungry” - “aw man, let’s see if we have some snacks”. If the kid survived his young years, then it would be better during teenagehood, I suppose. Guzma would give them lots of privacy, get along with their friends, be chill about their choices... But I can definitely see some emotional conflicts happening in the future because “you never even cared about me” or “I have always done everything on my own anyway!” or something similar, since the child might feel like Guzma did not give them the necessary amount of attention and protection when small. And man, if Guzma ever wanted that kid to do something, he would not be able to convince them at all. That kid would just straight up not obey him. Overall? Not the best dad, but might work with the right significant other to complement his flaws.

Rose: Confused Dad!

You know that dad who forgets what you told him yesterday? Who cannot remember your friends’ names? Who might literally pick the wrong stroller at the suppermarket and take the wrong baby home? That’s Rose. That aside, he is the standard dad, like... bad with cooking, tries his best with barbecues, but is not too great with it, wears tacky clothes, makes unfunny jokes, chills in the couch on sundays... Extreme dad energy, just a bit more chaotic because of his forgetful mind. He would be a good dad, I believe, but he would need someone to help him organize his thoughts. So like... “We’ll talk about this later” would easily become completely forgotten (like with Bede in my headcanon). Punishments are often confusing and disproportional (either too severe for what happened or too mild, because Rose does before he thinks), and he’d be the first one to forget about the grounding. So like “You didn’t clean your room? That’s it, you cannot go out with your friends for two months!”, but like... two days later his kid asks to go out and he’s like “Okay! come back before it gets dark!” because he already forgot. So he would need some other person like “Rose, two months just because of a room is too much...” and “Rose, you had grounded them, remember?” always helping him keep track of what’s going on. He would also be so easy to fool for a teen, like... “Don’t worry, he already forgot about that rule...” or “Relax, he won’t even notice his wallet is gone”. Still, for being a very nice guy to his kid all his life, I have a feeling that the child wouldn’t feel like fooling him so often, and would feel bad for disappointing him if they did. I feel like he would have many problems as a single dad, but would be OK with the right SO to help him. Still would be better than Guzma as a single dad, though. Kinda the same with kids or teens, an OK dad.

Piers: Overprotective Dad!

Piers would be the kind of dad that freaks out because their kid didn’t anwer their phone, but like... while their kid is in the front yeard, you know? Also the kind of dad that just wants to know what’s happening all the time, but at the same time doesn’t wanna be too annoying, like... He’d be like “I just... why didn’t they say anything when they arrived from school? Are they mad? Are they sick? Are they sad? Is someone hurting them? Why don’t they tell me? Do’t they trust me? Did I hurt them??” just because his kid didn’t say “hi” very loud today, but he would keep that to himself. He’d keep thinking about that, and talking about that to his friends, but not to the kid. He’d sometimes say something like “is there anything wrong?” but would try not to insist too much. If the kid ever did something wrong or if he found out they were hiding something, he would argue with them and show them that he’s disappointed, but as soon as they left to their room he would collapse like “I’m a horrible dad I’m a failure this is all my fault”. Not true, though, Piers is very responsible and loving, I’m pretty convinced he’d be an awesome dad, just a bit too overprotective. He would be constantly fighting between the urge to keep an eye on his child in order to protect them from any harm and the conscience that he needs to give their kid space and privacy. He’d probably be one of the best dads but think he’s the absolute worst. Still, Piers has some... issues with authority? So like, if his kid did something wrong and got in trouble, he’d be chill. He’d acknowledge the problem and talk to his kid... BUT if his kid got in trouble for what he sees as an unfair reason... Man, Piers would kill to defend them, so yeah. He might argue with the school, the teachers, the other kids, the other parents, cause trouble and so on... He’s the kind of dad that might go and punch bullies himself then get in trouble for that. And he would not teach his kid that “sometimes we have to accept injustice because of hierarchy”, so yeah. Depending on the child, that might become a problem. Still, I think he’d be a good dad.

Yeah, I think that’s about it. I always write more when it comes to Cyrus, because he’s my favorite, but in the end I think I wrote a decent amount about everyone! XD

I think they’d all be decent or good dads, except for Guzma (that would only be good with the right SO) and Lysandre (that would just not work no matter who his SO was).

[440mxs-wife]

Girls Night

You had been cleaning the bunker for the past two weeks, room by room. It was your turn to host the "Girls Night" this month, and you wanted it to be perfect. So far, you had heard from Donna, Jody, Charlie and Rowena, who all said they'd be there and were looking forward to it. Anael (Sister Jo) had just called you today and said she would be there. You even asked Mary, because you wanted to get to know her better and you loved her boys. Especially one in particular.

Last week, you checked to see that you had all your provisions. You were having cheesecake bites, chips and salsa and your fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies. You had ordered pizza, which Charlie agreed to pick up in town for you. Everyone texted you their favorite drink, so you made sure to have that on hand as well. Beer for Donna, Jody, Mary and Charlie, red wine for Rowena, strawberry daiquiri mix for Anael and margarita mix for you.

You also made sure that the spare rooms were all made up with freshly-washed sheets, in case anyone wanted or needed to sleep over. You were extremely excited about hosting the party this time, but a little nervous, because Mary would also be attending. You knew that alcohol tended to loosen tongues, and you didn't want a certain secret to be blurted out for her to hear.

It had to do with Dean and your feelings for him. You've been hunting with Sam and Dean for the past 8 years, after having hunted by yourself since you were 17. At first, you and Dean didn't get along at all, due to your past experience with male hunters. Usually, they charged ahead and tried to leave you behind. It was arrogant macho crap, and you detested it.

Dean tried to do that when you were hunting a wendigo together, but you ended up rescuing him and Sam by torching the monster. After that, you and the boys had an unspoken agreement: equal partners, no macho crap. For the most part, you were able to keep to the arrangement, with a few exceptions, such as when you needed a bit of rescue.

Sam and Dean never let you forget it, either, especially not this last hunt with the werewolf. It had knocked the boys against the wall, leaving them a bit dazed. You were so focused on making sure they were okay, that you missed the second werewolf, its mate. She sliced her claws into your side, then knocked you over. That caused your .380 with the silver bullets to go sliding across the floor. Fortunately, it was within Dean's reach, so he took care of both creatures, then came to check on you.

Once you got back to the Impala, you were placed gently in the back seat. As Dean drove back to the bunker, he let loose with a lecture to you. All about how you didn't pay attention and what you should've done instead. He was upset that your carelessness ended with you getting hurt. He pointed out that the "arrogant macho crap" actually saved your ass this time.

You listened to his arguments, and for once, you actually agreed with him. You were upset with yourself for getting hurt by not paying close enough attention. During his lecture, you drifted in and out of consciousness, with as much blood as you'd lost. That meant that you didn't see that Dean breathed a sigh of relief that you were still alive. As he drove, he kept checking on you every so often through the rearview mirror of the Impala.

When you got back to the bunker, Dean took you right to the infirmary and Sam carefully stitched you up. Dean stayed by your side the entire time, holding your hand, not minding if you squeezed his to get through the pain of the stitches. As tender as those moments were, though, it was back to business as usual after Sam was done patching you up. Dean seemed to be even more guarded than ever around you, almost like he was trying to avoid you.

Jody and Donna were the first to arrive, and it looked like they had both packed an overnight bag. You greeted them with hugs, and showed them to their rooms. You told them to meet you in the kitchen, where you would hook them up with a beer to get started.

As you made your way back to the kitchen, Mary caught up with you. "Thank you for including me on this. I don't have many female friends to speak of, but I know that the ladies that will be here tonight are good friends of yours and my sons," she smiled. "I'm looking forward to getting to know them better, and you, of course," she added.

"It's my pleasure, Mary, I'm glad you could join us. Sometimes there's just a little too much testosterone flowing in this place, especially when Castiel shows up," you explained with a grin. "Makes me want to hide in my room with a book," you laughed, as Mary joined in.

"Everything looks great, is there anything I can do?" she asked.

"Yes, there is," you replied. "Have fun," you whispered then winked at her as you continued on your way to the kitchen.

Anael was the next to arrive, also with an overnight bag, so you asked Mary to show her to one of the empty rooms. In the meantime, Rowena made a graceful entrance and made herself comfy in your favorite reading chair.

You had just served Rowena her red wine, when suddenly the bunker door flew open with a bang. "What's up bitches!?!" shouted Charlie, pizzas in hand. She bounced down the spiral staircase, careful not to drop the pizzas and announced, "Let's eat!"

Everything was set up in the kitchen with the pizzas and other snacks, so you handed out plates to everyone. Once plates were filled, you all adjourned to the living room for more comfortable seating.

"So, where are the guys?" Jody asked.

"In town. Dean's meeting up with his friend, Leo Webb. Sam said he was going to hang out in the library for a bit, then head over to the bar to meet Dean and Leo. At least that was the plan the last I knew," you explained.

"I remember Leo, he was one of Dean's best friends. His dad occasionally hunted with John, so the boys hung out a lot. As they got older, they got to be good friends," Mary added.

"Yeah, I've met Leo a couple of times. He gave me his number, and I mentioned that we were doing our 'girls night' tonight. He said he'd call Dean and arrange to come into town so they could get together," you remarked.

That was nice of her, Mary thought. Hmm. I wonder....

"There's plenty of food in the kitchen, ladies. Anyone need a drink refill?" you asked.

Rowena and Anael said they were good on their drinks. Donna, Jody, Mary and Charlie all needed another beer, and you were working on your second margarita.

A couple of hours later, you all were still working on catching up in each others' lives. Donna and Jody shared some details of their most interesting cases up to that point. Names were left out, but their stories were still hilarious. Anael and Rowena were considering traveling together, seeing the world, one country at a time.

Charlie was still heavily involved in LARPing as the Queen of Moondor. She told the group about the LARPing Tournament that she had just attended. Her army was still somewhat rebuilding, but it was enough to claim victory in the tournament.

Donna turned to Mary for an update. "What about you, Mary?" she asked.

Mary blushed a little when she said she'd been hanging out with Bobby from Apocalypse World. Even though their timelines were different, there was still a bit of history between them. With their respective spouses gone, they found that they enjoyed spending time together. And not just when they were hunting. All the girls started hooting and hollering, but with love behind the teasing. They were all happy for Mary, that she and Bobby had found one another.

"Speaking of new developments...." Charlie looked directly at you, wanting you to spill your details. You gave her the death stare as you replied, "There's nothing to tell for me. Just hunting with the boys, coming home, getting patched up. Excitement level zero."

The girls all looked around at each other, checking to see if anyone was buying your story that there was nothing going on with you, romantic or otherwise. Everyone but Charlie excused themselves and went into the kitchen for another drink and/or more snacks.

In the kitchen, the ladies were discussing your response to Charlie. "So if that wasn't someone covering something up, I don't know what," Jody observed.

"She was a little quick to deny that anything was happening in her life, other than hunting," Rowena commented. "Mary, you're around her a little more, what do you think?"

Mary paused a bit before sharing her thoughts. "Well....from what I've seen, it's like she said, on the surface anyway." Everyone groaned, as they were hoping for a bit of dirt from the "inside woman". "Notice I said, 'on the surface'," Mary grinned conspiratorially. "I think there's something going on with her and one of my boys that she's afraid to admit either to us or herself."

"So how do we get her to open up?" Anael asked.

"Leave that to me," Donna replied with a sly grin. "We'll have her spitting truth in no time."

Back in the living room:

"How could you say that, Charlie?" you hissed. "I told you that in strictest confi--well, you kind of dragged it out of me, but still. I can't talk about my feelings for Dean, not in front of his mother. How awkward would THAT be??" you grumbled.

"You're right, I'm sorry. I think you need another margarita, though. Give me your glass, and I'll get you a refill," Charlie ordered. Reluctantly, you held up your empty glass, your head resting in your hands.

When Charlie came back with your next margarita, Anael asked what the next activity should be. "We could put in a movie, or play cards, or--" you started.

"I think we should play 'Truth or Dare'," Donna suggested, looking around the room. Each of the other ladies in your group were nodding or voicing their agreement.

You took a large gulp of your drink, looked at Donna with one eyebrow raised in a challenge. "Really? All right, bring it on, Sheriff Hanscum. I can roll with the best of them," you remarked, starting to slur your words a bit. In your current state of intoxication, you missed the knowing looks that passed between the other women.

Jody started the questioning, then it went around the room in a circle. It was mostly "Truth" being chosen, with Charlie and Rowena choosing "Dare". Finally, it was Mary's turn and she turned to you. "So, 'Truth' or 'Dare'?" she asked.

You thought that by choosing 'Truth', you were playing it safe. Mary looked directly into your eyes and asked her question. "Which one of my boys are you in love with, Sam or Dean?"

All of the color drained from your face as you tried to come up with an answer. When you couldn't, you bolted from the room, leaving everyone staring after you. Mary got up from her chair and followed you to the kitchen.

You leaned against the counter, willing the tears not to fall. From the corner of your eye, you could see Mary approaching your position. "How did you know?" you whispered.

"Oh, honey, I've been keeping an eye on you and the boys for some time now, trying to figure you all out. From your conversations, your body language and all....it's Dean, isn't it?" she asked gently.

All you could do is nod your head in agreement. "He's so wonderful. I know he likes to show the world how tough he is, how nothing seems to bother him. But I've been there for him when he's had nightmares. He worries so much about everyone else, that he doesn't leave any room to care about himself.

“But I care. It's not just about the physical attributes either, although let's face it Mary, your son is gorgeous," you both chuckled. "I wish he cared for me the way I do for him. That, and I'd give almost anything for him to see himself the way I see him," you finished.

"Have you tried telling him all of this?" she asked. 

"No, I can't do that. We have the best friendship going, and I wouldn't want to ruin that with my one-sided attraction. Besides, I've been a little worried about how you would react. I was afraid you would think I'm not good enough for him," you said softly.

Mary gave you a sidelong glance and put her hand on your shoulder. "Well, you're not," she remarked. You nodded and tears started rolling down your face. She laid a hand on your arm and smiled. "You're perfect for him. You are exactly the kind of person he needs in his life, and I hope he realizes that, sooner rather than later."

"Thank you," you whispered hoarsely. Mary pulled you into a hug and explained, "Everything's going to be fine. Now, you might want to think about sharing this info with the women you've invited here tonight. They are your closest friends, and they will support you no matter what."

You nodded, wiped your tears and walked back out to the living room. "Everyone? I have an answer to Mary's question. I am in love with Dean Winchester," you declared.

The entire room was silent until Jody spoke up. "Sweetie, we know," she said. You looked around and each woman was nodding in agreement. "Really? All of you knew?" you said as you sank into one of the chairs and put your head in your hands.

"Och, darlin', I've seen the way you two look at each other. Dean likes to show the world his rough-and-tumble side. Mark my words, dearie, he goes all soft when you walk into the room," Rowena remarked.

"Yah, you betcha, she's right. He kind of follows you around with his eyes to make sure you're okay," Donna chimed in. "And honey? You're just as bad with him," she said as she leaned over and tapped the end of your nose.

Charlie piped up. "I've actually seen worse. Not only are her eyes glued to him, but if he's in the room first? She has this inner debate with herself about whether to go sit beside him or not. Usually it ends up being 'not'," Charlie mentioned.

"Seriously, though. You should tell him how you feel. I know it's scary to put yourself out there like that. But, you could end up missing out on something pretty great if you wait too long," Anael pointed out.

"Thank you, everyone, I appreciate your advice and your support. I definitely have some thinking to do. Probably best not to do anything about it, though, until I'm sober," you remarked.

Everyone stayed up talking for a little while longer, until one by one, your friends headed off to their rooms. Mary was the last one to say goodnight, and she gave you a hug before going to her own room. "Don't worry, honey. I have a feeling it'll all work out for you and Dean," she said.

You went to the kitchen and grabbed a garbage bag, then went back out to the living room to clean up the remnants of your party from tonight. At one point, you paused in your cleaning and smiled to yourself, remembering how great it was to have friends like this. Also, how fun it was to get together and spend time with each other. You were so engrossed in your memories that you didn't hear the bunker door open or Sam, Dean and Leo come down the stairs.

You shoved paper plates and napkins into the garbage bag, then picked up some of the empty beer bottles. Once you had the living room cleaned up, you started putting away the leftover pizza and other food. You got to the cheesecake bites and realized you hadn't had one yet this evening. You set aside the last chocolate chip cheesecake bite and put the rest away just as Dean walked into the kitchen. "Hey," he said. "Some party, hmm?" he remarked.

"Sure was. Thank you for letting me have the run of the place tonight. Don't worry, I'm not going to make it a habit. I think it's Charlie's turn to host next month," you said quickly as you finished putting things away.

"Yeah, Sammy and me ended up at Jonesy's in town, having some beers and shooting some pool. And hey, even my old friend, Leo Webb, called and said he was in town this weekend, so he met us there. He came back here with us tonight, since I didn't want him to chance driving back to the motel," Dean finished.

"I-I suppose you three guys didn't lack for female company, either," you remarked.

"It was 'Ladies Night', if I recall correctly," Dean explained with a grin.

"Oh. Well, I'm going to have this last chocolate chip cheesecake bite, then I'm going to bed," you said as you unwrapped the dessert.

"That's the last one? Aw, that's my favorite flavor," Dean pouted.

You hesitated before taking a bite and instead held it up for him to take from your fingers. To your surprise, he dove in and plucked the entire bite from your fingers with his mouth. Such an intimate move caused you to blush furiously. "G-goodnight, Dean," you stammered, quickly exiting the kitchen.

You reached your bedroom and quickly closed the door. You leaned against it, trying to calm your hammering heart. When it had slowed down enough, you went to get some Tylenol and a glass of water before bed. You hoped that would be enough to keep your anticipated hangover at bay.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The next morning, Mary was in the kitchen sipping her coffee when Dean came strolling in. She wished him good morning, as she looked up to meet his eyes. He returned the greeting and kissed his mother's forehead. They each shared how their evening had gone. Mary informed Dean that she'd had a lovely time. She said that she was welcomed as if she'd been part of the group since forever.

Dean told his mom about his night, with Sammy joining him at the bar after going to the library. "And get this, my old friend, Leo Webb, was in town this weekend, so he hung out with us. He came back with us, crashed in one of the spare rooms," Dean replied.

After a breakfast of coffee and cinnamon rolls, the girls all took their leave, with Charlie being the last one to depart. As she hugged you goodbye, she whispered in your ear, "Remember what we talked about last night. Go for it." She stepped back and picked up her bag. "My place next month. Adios, bitches!" she called. You laughed at your friend then closed the door.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Later in the afternoon, you found you had some free time. You grabbed your book and blanket, then settled into your favorite chair in the library. Before long, your eyelids began to droop, and you eventually fell asleep, book still open to the page you were reading.

Dean was passing through the library on his way to his room. He stopped when he saw you, and took a moment to study you as you slept. Your hazel eyes, although closed now, had a way of drawing him in, capturing his attention. There was a light dusting of freckles across your nose that he'd never noticed before, and your delicate eyelashes fluttered as you slept.

A small smile came across his face, thinking how peaceful you looked, all curled up in your chair, asleep. He also thought of how vulnerable you were, especially considering how that last hunt with the werewolf had gone.

He came so close to losing you that it scared him, which is why he gave you such a harsh lecture. He half expected you to argue back at him, but you didn't. He held your hand while Sam stitched up your wounds. Since then, he's tried to distance himself from you, not wanting to admit to himself the thoughts and feelings he was having.

Leo came up beside him and followed his gaze over to where you were sleeping. "Damn, Dean, how do you do it, man?” he asked.

“Do what, Leo?” Dean wondered.

“Concentrate with someone as beautiful as her around?" Leo asked. "I've talked to her on the phone a couple of times lately, about coming out here. Her voice is pure honey, music to the ears. And I gotta say, brother, the body matches the voice," he finished.

"She's a great hunter, has great instincts and can kick ass with the best of them. She's fun to be with, too. Great sense of humor and the most musical laugh. She takes real good care of Sammy and me, and well, now Mom too. Sometimes I think she forgets to do things for herself, she's so worried about everyone else," Dean mused.

"Sounds like you might have a thing for her," Leo observed.

"What? No, we're just good friends. Great fr-best friends," Dean corrected.

"You sure? Because I was thinking about asking her out. I don't have to be back for another couple of weeks, might as well have some fun while I'm here. Unless you don't want me to," Leo added.

"Why would I care? You're single, she's single. Why shouldn't you get together?" he muttered.

"Good, I'll ask her out for tonight. Thanks, Dean," Leo clapped him on the shoulder as he left.

"Yeah. You're welcome," he murmured. Dean didn't know why, but the thought of you going out with Leo upset him. To him, Leo was only looking for a good time while he was here. He could see how you might end up getting your heart broken when Leo left town. No, Dean decided that wasn't going to happen, not on his watch.

You awoke refreshed from your nap and returned your belongings to your room. As you were tidying things up, you heard a knock on your door and saw Leo standing there. He asked if you would like to go out on a date with him tonight, to which you agreed. He was heading back to the motel to get changed, but said he would be back to pick you up at 6:00pm for dinner.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Your date with Leo ended a little early, around 9:00pm. You went to your room and changed into your pajamas, then wandered into the kitchen for a glass of water. As you passed through the library, you noticed Dean, a glass of whiskey in his hand.

"How was your date?" he asked, an edge to his voice.

"Fine, is something wrong?" you inquired cautiously.

"No, nothing's wrong at all. Wait, why are you home so early?" Dean said.

"Can we please not play twenty questions right now? I was headed to the kitchen to get some water and saw you sitting here. I'll be right back," you replied.

Dean wasn't satisfied with your answer, so he followed you. "Did something happen on your date?" he asked.

"I told you, I don't want to talk about it right yet, let me get my drink of water first," you retorted.

"Why won't you answer my questions about your date?" Dean demanded.

"Why are you so concerned about my date? What are you, jealous?" you threw out.

"YES! Yes, dammit I'm jealous! That should've been me out there with you tonight, but I didn't have the guts to ask you out before Leo did. I don't know what happened that you're back here so early tonight. But I guarantee you that if I took you out on a date, we'd still be out having a great time," he finished. "So, what happened?" he asked, more gently this time.

"I told him that he was a nice guy and a good friend of yours, but that I didn't see us going anywhere. Especially since he's only going to be around for a couple of weeks, and I want something more. Besides, I told him that I'm in love with someone else," you admitted, taking a step closer to Dean.

"Really? Who?" he asked.

"Well, he's....how do I describe him? He's about 6'1", blond-ish hair, strong, loyal, caring, great sense of humor and the most piercing green eyes I've ever seen. He's got some walls up, though, and it will take me some time to get through them. But, I'm willing to try, because he's definitely worth it. He has my heart, and I love him so much," you finished.

Before you knew it, Dean's lips crashed into yours. His kiss started out rough and raw with emotion over what you'd said about your feelings for him. Then it turned softer as he finally realized how he felt about you.

"Since we're making confessions, I should tell you about this girl I know. How do I describe her? She's about 5'3", curly brown hair, sweet, caring, always thinking of others first, also great sense of humor. Her hazel eyes are the perfect swirl of brown and green. They're so mesmerizing, that I get lost every time I look in them. If I could give her one thing, it would be that she could see herself the way I see her. She has my heart and I love her so much," Dean replied.

He leaned his head down until your lips met again in a slow, luxurious kiss. Your mouths moved together in perfect harmony. Dean's hand on the back of your head kept your lips in constant contact. Your hands traveled up his muscular chest until you clasped them behind his head.

"I love you, Dean," you whispered.

"I love you too, sweetheart," he whispered back.

[kcatta-wodahs]

Hey there :3 May I request a matchup🙈? I'm a 5'6 tall, queer, chin long dyed red haired girl(she/her) and you can call me Karo if you need a name :p I don't really care if it's a single pairing or a poly one as well as the kind of relationship (platonic/romantic/sexual), but maybe a romantic one would be sweet🤔 I'm a INFP and was born under the sign of Pisces and I think the stereotype fits me pretty well lol. I don't think I would describe myself as clingy, I definetely need my space (part1)

and me-time, but sometimes it's also nice to have someone who will drag me outside to do stuff or socialize if I'm isolating myself too much or another depressive episode seems to creep up on me. I think they need to understand, doesn't matter if it's a platonic or romantic relationship, that sometimes I can't give them much(time etc) and that that's nothing personal and that they're still very important to me. Hmmm I think I would prefer my relationship like I like my fanfics hehe, slow burning, like first get to know each other, (enemies to) friends to lovers is just *chefs kiss* for me <3 I really love to draw and sing, to dance too, I like to spend time in nature and with animals, help them too. But I also like adrenaline rushes, like rollercoasters, cave exploring, bungee jumping, exploring lost places etc, I would say I'm almost up to anything if it's exciting or interesting, but I definetely like just chilling and watching netflix, playing games or watching Vine compilations or crackhead satire twilight tiktoks(which is tbh the things I do most of the time until someone drags me out). I love making others laugh with just random outbursts(thats pretty much my humour, just randomness and gen z memes). I try not to judge anyone for anything and be open for all kinds of stuff, except for like non-negotiable things for me like racism, homophobia, sexism etc, like, full offense but I have absolutely a zero tolerance for that. I also get very emotional very easily, doesn't matter if it's something not so important like a touching movie scene(so many things make me cry so easily haha) or like in an argument. I really have a hard time argueing, I hate it SO much, I either try to avoid conflict(and run away like a coward lol) or if it's really something we have to discuss I sometimes need time and space in between(not the best under stress talker/thinker), but if the other side is being calm and considerate then I think I would be fine too Oh almost forgot,I love cuddling(definetely also platonic)and am not afraid to just throw myself at my friends/lover/s I am getting better at not caring about what others think, but sometimes I'm still pretty insecure about everything(my actions,my future,my appearence..),but my motto is fake it till you make it,so feck other people,I can do whatever the hell I like and nobody's gonna stop me hehe😈🙈 Soo yes,I think that will be enough😂Thank you for your time and effort👐💕👐

A/N: I promise you fake it til you make it is 100000% good strategy and also i see feck are you from ireland

I pair you with.... The Attic Sandwich!

Beel and Belphie would be perfect partners for you. The two of them balance each other out in many ways, and you fit right into that. They value the connection between them and because of it they don't expect to always be around each other. This connection extends to you. Beel takes you out to all sorts of places (usually ones where there's unique food) and would definitely have fun with some adrenaline rushes. It makes him forget about his hunger for a bit. Belphie is absolutely there for your sense of humor and he's very good at watching your depression and arranging something to cheer you up.

More Below the Cut!

The plot of the first 20 chapters is what really gets you close to these two. (Spoilers for that follow and in the last three bullet points) Beel opens up more and more to you, and just absolutely falls for you. Belphie gives us that sweet, sweet enemies to lovers trope. He becomes curious about you, especially with how smitten Beel is, and ends up falling along the way.

THIS is the cuddliest group to ever cuddle oh my goodness when you want snuggles you will have them

They adore just relaxing with you. The three of you become a pile on the couch while watching movies or other videos.

Beel will watch you scroll through tumblr while he engulfs you with his arms. Belphie somehow worms his way into yours and alternates between sleeping against your chest and watching your screen as well. You hear an occasional snort of laughter from him.

Beel is very emotionally intelligent, so he can quickly determine your mood and what he can do to help.

Belphie encourages you to break out of your shell and be yourself. He's very blunt about his opinion of other people lol

He finds himself staying awake longer with you just so he can hear you. He thinks you're hilarious, honestly, and loves talking with you.

When you throw yourself at Beel he catches you. He big and strong and loves affection from you. but also this happens https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIhl1cW9Me8

Belphie thinks its the funniest shit he can't breathe

If you do it to Belphie honestly he just stands there - either to let you fall or cling to him like a koala. He looks so Done but I promise he loves it. He laughs at you either way. He saves hugs and cuddling for when laying in bed or sitting. Too tired to hold you.

They both understand needing space, and will often just go off and do their own thing. They have complete faith in your feelings for each other, and will never doubt that you love them.

At least not for needing alone time - Belphie has lingering guilt over plot but he tries to make up for it by protecting you.

The others in the house can't help but be reminded of the trio they were with Lilith as angels.

While it still hurts to remember, Beel and Belphie feel almost as if they've come home around you. A part of them that was lost is found again. 

Snippet!

Cleaning day is nobody's favorite, but least of all Belphie's. Too much work. Just don't take ou your stuff and then you don't have to clean it later, right? The problem to him seems to be all the time people spend awake and he shouldn't have to deal with it!

But cleaning day is a little better with Beel and Karo. With their laughs and energy. Usually seeing other people so active drained him, but not with those two. He watched as Karo danced around the room to the music she had put on, while she and Beel tidied up. It was frankly adorable, and best of all: Belphie wasn't expected to join.

He was happy to watch. He watched as Karo spun into Beel's side, surprising him and causing him to stumble before he laughed and swept her up into a spin together. He watched as Beel picked Karo up with ease to put something on the top shelves of the room. He watched Karo find pillows in all the nooks and crannies of the room, and he huffed and whined when she threw each one at him on the bed.

Belphie was on snack duty. In exchange for the two helping him with cleaning day, he was expected to provide the rewards. This was not a small feat when Beel was involved, but it was far better than cleaning.

"Hah! The closet is done!" Karo declared, brandishing her feather duster. "Snack us, Belphie!"

He couldn't help but chuckle. It was an awful phrase. Silly and stupid, but Karo's enthusiasm was just so contagious. 

"Good job. C'mere," he told them, reaching to his hoard of treats.

Karo practically jumped onto the bed, grinning at him, while Beel was close behind looking very expectant. Belphie hid the curling smile of his lips by lifting up a large bag. "The closet is the biggest monster of them all - so for defeating it, you two get this."

Karo gasped and Beel's eyes gleamed. "Oh, those are my favorite..." he said, already reaching out.

"Ah-ah," Belphie pulled the bag back, to be met with a pout from Beel. "You'll eat them too fast for Karo to get any, so we're gonna do something different."

"Different?" Karo asked. 

Belphie smirked and opened the bag, which led to a very audible tummy rumble from Beel. He and Karo couldn't help but laugh. He pulled out a snack - just one - and held it up. "Karo, say 'aaah'." 

She beamed at him and opened her mouth. "Aaah!" Belphie tried really hard to keep his blush down as he dropped the snack in her mouth. She was so darn cute about everything. 

"Now you give one to Beel."

"Just one?" 

"Just one," Belphie agreed, smirking at the pout.

It didn't last long though, as Karo held up the snack and said "aaah" to Beel. He eagerly opened his mouth for the treat, but shocked himself by blushing heavily once she leaned over to feed him. Karo didn't comment, but seemd to be rather proud of the fact.

Belphie fed her another, and she followed up with Beel - but Beel took her hand after stealing the snack from her fingertips. He couldn't help but kiss the palm of her hand. "You're... so cute," he mumbled. "I like this."

"I thought you would," Belphie said, pleased with himself. "Karo?" he held up another. 

She went for the treat, but instead he pulled it away, holding it above his head. "Beel gave you a kiss, don't I get one too?"

Karo paused and blinked before laughing and leaning in. "You're adding new rules," she told him. 

"Never said I couldn't," he answered, giving her a light peck on the lips before presenting her with the treat. The look of satisfaction in her eyes made his heart pound, and he could tell that Beel's was just as busy.

"My turn," Beel said quickly. Whether he meant for a snack or for a kiss... well. We shall see.

[lilacmoon83]

Dreaming Out Loud

Also on Fanfiction.net and A03

Chapter 162: Mixed Signals

When they arrived back at the station, Emma and David booked the pirate and he looked none too happy, as Emma put him in a cell, before closing it.

"You still haven't told me the charges, love," he stated.

"How about attempted murder?" Neal called from the doorway, as he entered the station. Hook rolled his eyes.

"I'm sorry...you are?" he questioned. Neal smirked.

"You don't recognize me...that figures. Why would you?" he added, as he came closer to the cell.

"Why would you remember the boy you sold out to Pan to save your own skin. I guess that was a couple hundred years ago though," Neal replied. Hook's face went ashen, as he stared at the other man with a mix of emotions.

"Bae?" he questioned.

"You escaped Neverland?" Hook asked.

"No thanks to you," he spat.

"Bae...I never wanted to turn you over to that demon, but if I remember correctly, you wanted nothing to do with me when you found out," Hook reasoned.

"You mean found out that you're the reason my mother left us?" Neal questioned.

"Well...it's not my fault that unhappily married women flock to me," Hook hissed. Neal reached through the bars for him, amusing Hook greatly, especially as Emma pulled him back.

"Hey...no, he's not worth it," she chided.

"He's nothing but trouble, Emma," he warned.

"And now he's behind bars where he belongs," she admonished. He sighed.

"Yeah…" he said, as sat down at one of the desks, just as Henry came into the station.

"Hey kid...how was school?" Emma asked. He wrinkled his nose and shrugged, making Neal chuckle.

"Way less interesting than breakfast this morning," he mentioned.

"Oh yeah...how did that go after we left?" Snow asked curiously.

"About like you'd expect. I told her everything. There was yelling...and stuff," he muttered.

"I'm sorry Neal," Snow offered. He nodded.

"Do you think Mom could show her magic? Maybe she would believe then?" Henry questioned. The four of them exchanged a glance.

"I'm not sure that's the best idea yet, buddy," Neal replied.

"Wait...he's your son?" Hook questioned, as they all looked up at him.

"Uh yeah...what about it?" Neal asked.

"Is he in there, because he tried to kill Grandpa Gold?" Henry questioned. Emma smirked.

"Pretty much," she said smugly, as she glanced at the pirate.

"If you have everything handled here, then I think we're going to go get Wilby and check on things at the bean field," David mentioned, as he looked at his wife and took her hand.

"And then maybe a walk down by the Toll bridge," he offered. She grinned and hooked her hand on his elbow.

"Okay...see you guys at the diner later?" Emma asked. Snow nodded.

"We'll be there. And Neal, feel free to invite Tamara again if you think she's comfortable with it. I know your father and Belle will be there too, so maybe it will help her come to terms with everything," Snow suggested. He nodded.

"Thanks Snow," he replied, as he stood up.

"Come on kid, let's get you a snack while I finish some paperwork and then we'll go to Granny's," she suggested, as they headed for the vending machines.

"I see you've gotten in good with the in-laws," Hook mentioned to Neal.

"What are you talking about? They're not my in-laws," he refuted.

"Sure...is that why you look at their daughter with longing?" Hook questioned. Neal scoffed.

"There's nothing between Emma and me anymore. We share a kid, that's it," he retorted. Hook smirked.

"Right...you're not still carrying a torch for her, got it," the pirate mused.

"I'm engaged," Neal insisted.

"Of course...I guess you wouldn't mind me making a play for Emma then, would you?" Hook questioned. Neal chuckled.

"You've got zero chance with Emma. She can't stand you…" he shot back. Hook smirked.

"Oh, I didn't say a conquest for her would be easy, but that's how I like it," the pirate goaded.

"Emma is not some conquest!" Neal protested hotly, only making Hook's smirk wider.

"I thought you were engaged?" he questioned.

"I am...but she's still the mother of my kid and I care about her. That's what women are to you...just conquests. Don't think for a second that Emma will be the same. She's not like other women," Neal warned.

"Oh I know...thus the basis of her intrigue," Hook countered. But Neal smirked.

"You're in jail...there won't be any conquests for you," he said. Hook smirked.

"We'll see," he retorted, as Neal walked away, as Emma and Henry came back into the room. Part of him felt bad for Neal, for he knew for a fact this fiance of his didn't really love him. But telling him didn't do Hook any favors and as always, he would be looking out for number one.

~*~

Wilby trotted along ahead of them, as they trekked toward the Toll Bridge. They had just come from the bean fields and things were going well there. Tiny was fitting in nicely with the dwarves and had truly seemed to find a home again with them. For that, they were glad. They stopped on the knoll below the bridge and let Wilby sniff around. He didn't wander far and that left them to their own devices.

"Anton seemed really happy," she mentioned.

"Yeah...I'm glad. I still can't believe my brother helped kill his family," he lamented.

"You're not responsible for that," she reminded.

"I know...I guess I just wonder what if, you know?" he asked.

"What if what?" she questioned. He shrugged.

"What if I had been the one raised by King George? Would I have grown up to be corrupt?" he wondered. But she shook her head.

"No…" she said immediately.

"How do you know?" he asked.

"Because I know your heart. You may have been twins, but you're not interchangeable with your brother. You're still very different people to the core and I know as hard as George might have tried had he raised you, you'd never be like him or James," she answered confidently. He smiled and gazed at her, drinking in her beauty, as he often did.

"I don't know what I ever did to deserve you, but I am the luckiest man in all the realms," he mentioned. She looked at him shyly and then nudged him playfully. He grinned at her shyness and slipped his arm around her waist, before pulling her flush against him.

"Please...I'm the lucky one. There was a time, before you, that I didn't even believe in love," she mused, as he pressed his forehead against hers.

"I know...it hurts me to think about all you went through before we met. I know there were cold nights and ones where you went hungry when you were in hiding. Nights where you cried and had no one to hold you," he mentioned. She shuddered and cuddled close to him.

"Do you think I'm completely foolish for hoping that Regina can ever change?" she asked.

"I would never think you are foolish and you know how much I admire your ability to see the best in people," he replied.

"But Charming...there is probably a point that it is foolish. And I'm afraid...I'm afraid I'm reaching that point with her and I don't like it," she said, as her bottom lip quivered. His heart broke for her.

"I know, my darling. For your sake, I want Regina to finally see the light, so to speak. Despite everything...she is part of your family," he reasoned. She nodded.

"She wasn't always like this...marrying my father did not help. I loved him, but finding out about his involvement with Cora cast him in a new light for me. I see things about him now that I didn't see back then," she said sadly.

"It's okay for you to remember the good about him though," he replied. She nodded.

"Oh, I know...I guess I am still just reeling a bit from how I grew thinking I knew exactly who I was...and then finding out none of it's true," she mused. He pressed a kiss to her forehead.

"But then I look at you and Emma and Henry and realize that none of that matters. Because I know exactly who I am now and who I want to be. I'm your wife and Emma mother and Henry's grandmother," she replied. He smiled at her and kissed her tenderly.

"Exactly...you're Snow White. You've always told me that you never cared that I wasn't born a royal...that my origins didn't make me all I am and the same goes for you, my love," he added. She nodded and kissed him again. Their lips parted, as they heard Wilby bark and walk in circles, like he wanted them to come to him.

"He's excited about something," she said.

"Let's go see," he replied, as they joined hands. With that, Wilby took off and they hurried to follow. When they reached the other side of the bridge, they spotted a dirty, rundown trailer. Wilby ran to it and pawed at the door, as David knocked.

"Hello?" he called. There was no answer, but Wilby was not calming, so he opened the door and peered in.

"Hello?" Snow called, hoping that perhaps a female voice would either put the person at ease or lower their guard.

"Back here!" a voice called, as they stepped in and came face to face with a completely wooden man.

"August?" David asked in disbelief and then looked at Snow, who shared his look of disbelief.

"What happened to you?" Snow asked. He shrugged.

"Nothing...this is me," August replied.

"But the curse broke," she argued.

"Not for me. When it lifted, I could move again. But I stayed like this. This is my punishment and I can't blame Regina for mine. I did this to myself," August answered.

"No argument there," David muttered, only to have Snow smack his arm,

"David," she chided.

"No...he's right. He has every reason to say those things, especially after the confrontation we had at the well. I tried to use Emma...and that was wrong. And I accused your husband of coddling her and being just as bad as Gold," he said.

"Yes...you were wrong, very wrong on both those counts. But you don't have to hide anymore. There are people in Storybrooke who care about you," she reminded.

"How is he? My Papa?" August inquired.

"Well...he has been avoiding us, but we know he misses you. He even put up a flier at Granny's after the curse broke when everyone was still trying to find each other," David offered.

"August...you need to go to him," Snow encouraged.

"I can't let him see me like this," he refused.

"So...what? You're just going to sit out here alone and keep being selfish?" David asked.

"Charming...we have talked about your tact," Snow scolded.

"Yeah I know...I don't have any," he replied.

"Please reconsider…" Snow pleaded.

"A lot has happened. Neal's here and you know, he's actually owned his part in Emma going to prison and having to give up Henry. I think it's time you do the same, especially if you're looking for redemption of any kind," David said bluntly. Snow sighed.

"Neal is back? Then he and Emma are back together?" he asked.

"Um...no, he's actually engaged to someone he met in New York," Snow answered.

"I was hoping...that's my problem. Hoping. Hoping that things can still work out. Hoping that I can find redemption for the mistakes that I've made. But maybe some things you just don't come back from," he said miserably.

"No...you must never lose hope," Snow admonished.

"Hope is the reason we're all here and redemption is possible if you really want it. You deserve a second chance," she added.

"That's easy for you two to say. You've never had to worry about forgiveness and redemption. You never needed it," August retorted.

"It's time to stop feeling sorry for yourself. Come back to town with us and we'll find your father," David said.

"You expect me to face him like this? A wood pile of failure?" he asked incredulously.

"Don't say that," Snow pleaded.

"You two want to help me? Leave," he snapped. David gave him a hard look and then led his disappointed wife out of the trailer.

"Do we tell Emma?" Snow whispered.

"I'd rather not keep anything from her and she'd want to know. But you know...I think we should go further than that. It's time Marco faced us too and we talked. Then with any luck, maybe we can reunite another family," he said. She smiled at him and kissed him passionately.

"You may have no tact, but this is what I was talking about earlier. Your heart is so good. You would have never been like James," she assured. He smiled and kissed her again.

"Maybe, but you make me the best version of myself," he told her, as they started back over the bridge.

"Come on Wilby!" he called, as the dog followed loyally.

~*~

After being released from the hospital, Greg Mendell made his way to the Inn and after getting a room, he went over to the diner to get something to eat. And observe the townsfolk for the purpose of possibly gathering more Intel. He purposely sat in the spot that he knew Regina Mills always claimed and ordered a slice of apple pie. He was aware of Tamara's presence a few seats away, but they did not make eye contact and kept with the ruse that they did not know each other.

He observed Neal come into the diner with a boy beside them. They each were carrying wooden swords and looked a little out of breath, but happy.

"Hey Ruby...can we get a couple of waters?" Neal called. The waitress smiled.

"Sure thing," she called back.

"I'm hungry...let's get one of Granny's cinnamon rolls too," Henry said.

"Nice try, but if I stuff you full of sugar before dinner, neither your Mom or Grandmother will be happy with me. How about some fruit or something healthy to hold you over?" Neal asked. Henry wrinkled his nose.

"Fine...but no apples," he replied. Neal chuckled.

"Grab a booth...I'm sure Granny has some grapes and a banana or something for you," he said, as he went up to the bar, unaware of Greg's observance of him. He did notice Tamara, however and approached cautiously.

"Hey…" he greeted.

"I'm in no mood to talk to you right now, Neal," she said coldly. He sighed.

"Look...I know it was a lot to take in," he replied.

"A lot to take in? You told me that everyone here, including you, are fairy tale characters that came from a magical land and you think that's a lot to take in?" she mocked.

"Yeah...I know what it sounds like, but the truth is the truth," he said, but was met with her silence.

"Fine...you're not ready to talk. I get it. But if you want to, I'm having dinner with my Dad and my kid's family tonight. You're welcome to join," he offered, before leaving her alone.

Greg casually sipped at his coffee, having heard the whole thing and the bell rang, as Regina came into the diner. Greg felt a spark of anger pulse through him and clamped down on his emotions, as she came near.

"You're in my seat," she told the stranger.

"I'm sorry...Miss?" he questioned.

"Mills," Regina answered.

"Mills," Greg parroted.

"Mayor Mills…" she said, as she stopped, realizing that was no longer true.

"Former Mayor Mills…" she corrected herself with obvious irritation.

"I always sit in that seat," she said. Greg smirked and looked directly at her with a bit of smugness.

"But I'm already sitting here," he replied. Her eyes narrowed and she was struck by how familiar this man was.

"Who are you?" she questioned. He shrugged.

"Just a guy passing through your fair town...former Mayor Mills," he responded, as he finished his pie and paid the check, before leaving. Regina was deeply troubled by that. Storybrooke didn't have strangers under her watch and she intended to rake her step-daughter over the coals for it, as she was almost certain Snow was at fault for it. But her attention was then captured by her son sitting with the man that she had come to figure out was Gold's son and more anger swelled inside her. Emma and her parents were no where to be found and had seemingly left her son with this man. She intended to have something to say about it, for she wanted no son of Gold's anywhere near hers.

At that moment, Emma came into the diner and smiled, as Henry waved to her.

"Miss Swan...a moment," Regina growled and Emma rolled her eyes.

"Fine...outside," Emma replied, as the two women went out onto the patio of the diner.

"Do you mind telling me why you felt it's okay to leave my son with some random person?" Regina questioned. Emma rolled her eyes.

"First of all, our son. And ease up on the attitude. Do you think I've forgotten your hand in kidnapping my mother?" the blonde retorted.

"Snow is fine, as usual. Now answer my question," Regina demanded. Emma sighed.

"Neal isn't just some random guy…" she replied.

"He's Gold's son...I don't want him around Henry," Regina snapped. Emma smirked.

"Yeah...I guess you don't know yet, but that's going to be a bit impossible since Neal is Henry's father," Emma replied, enjoying the shock on Regina's face, as she put it all together.

"Yep, that's right. Henry's other grandfather is the Dark One. Believe me, no one was more surprised than me when I found out, but fate is a tricky bitch," Emma said.

"When were you planning to tell me?" Regina demanded to know. Emma shrugged.

"I guess it slipped my mind to mention it after you helped terrorize my mother...again!" Emma shot back. Regina rolled her eyes.

"She's fine, as usual. We're talking about my son," Regina snapped.

"Our son...and our son doesn't want to see you right now, because you kidnapped his grandmother!" Emma snapped back. Regina pursed her lips.

"And you know, despite that, I know my mother and I know she'll forgive you...again. Then you'll spit on her kindness once again and probably try to kill her or my father...again. But you know what, Regina, I'm not sure I'm as forgiving as my mother. So if you really want Henry to want anything to do with you ever again, then I would seriously consider actually trying to be a better person," Emma said.

"I don't need a sanctimonious lecture from you, Miss Swan," Regina growled.

"Fine...do whatever you want. In the end, it's all up to you. We're all a part of Henry's life and for him, we have to work this out. If you hurt people he loves, you hurt him. Right now, he and my mother are the only ones that actually believe you're capable of changing," Emma stated, as she let that sink in.

"After everything you've done, my mother still believes in you and our son still believes in you. So here's the thing: you either prove them right or prove them wrong. It's up to you," Emma said, as she went back into the diner. Regina was deep in thought for a moment, her emotions churning inside her like a volcano. She turned and happened to notice the stranger from earlier parking his car at the Inn and getting out. Her eyes narrowed, as she noticed something hanging from the zipper on his bag. A handmade key chain that suddenly reminded her of...no it couldn't be. Could it? She started around the corner and nearly ran right into Snow at that point. The raven haired beauty almost stumbled over trying not to crash into her and was only steadied by her husband.

"I see you've done a wonderful job as Mayor so far. Just a few weeks and you've already let strangers into our town. I hope the people are happy with your failures," Regina goaded.

"None of that was Snow's fault. How could we know that once the curse broke that it would open up the town barriers?" David retorted.

"Oh of course, nothing is ever precious Snow's fault," Regina snapped, as she stormed off. Snow sighed and he kissed her hair.

"Ignore her...bitterness isn't a new color on her," he said, as they walked into the diner, hand in hand.

"Hey…" Emma greeted, as they came in a bit frantically.

"We found August," Snow announced.

"My boy? He's alive?" Marco asked, as he was sitting nearby. Snow had left him a message, asking him to come the diner and apparently his curiosity had overruled his desire to avoid them.

"Yes, but...he's completely wooden," Snow revealed.

"Apparently he's been living in an abandoned trailer down near the Toll Bridge," David added.

"What can we do? Can we help him?" Emma asked.

"I'm not sure we can, but there might be someone," Snow said.

"It's the Blue Fairy, right Grams?" Henry interjected, as he and Neal had joined them. She smiled.

"That's right Henry…" Snow said.

"Yes, yes, the Blue Fairy. She helped once...she can help again!. She must!" Marco insisted.

"Yeah...considering she helped you lie to us once, I'm sure she'll be willing to help you again," David mentioned.

"Charming…" Snow hissed, as she elbowed him in the ribs.

"I...I know what I did," Marco started to say.

"No, I don't think you do," David retorted.

"August screwed up pretty badly, but it was because of the burden you put on him," the Prince scolded.

"I was scared for my child. Do not tell me you weren't scared for yours!" Marco replied hotly.

"Of course we were! Have you even given any thought to the trauma August went through on his own in this world? Because let me tell you...Snow and I had to hold our daughter every night during most of her childhood while she cried for us, because we couldn't be there for her when she was awake!" David yelled, finally letting out some of the anger he had been bottling since he found out the wardrobe took two.

"Dad…" Emma interjected, as she put herself between him and the elder man.

"It's okay...I'm okay…" she assured him, as he deflated a bit.

"Let's go find and ask the Blue Fairy if she can help August," Emma said. Snow nodded.

"She's right…" Snow said, as they hurried out of the diner. But even Neal remained unaware that Tamara was carefully eavesdropping on the whole conversation and quickly left just after they did.

~*~

As Greg unpacked his things and put them in the dresser drawer in the room he had rented, there was a knock at the door.

"You know, I'm all set on towels...if that's why you're here," he called, thinking it was housekeeping. But there was another knock and he opened it, finding it to be Regina Mills behind the door instead.

"I'm here, because I realized why you look familiar to me. It's because we have met before, haven't we? Owen. I kept this all these years as a reminder of our time together. You were just a boy when you gave this to me," Regina said, as she held up the key chain he made her.

"Now look at you, all grown up. No wonder I didn't recognize you," she added.

"Yeah, but I recognized you, because you look exactly the same, Regina. It's as if no time has passed for you," Greg retorted.

"Monthly juice cleanse. Does wonders for the skin. You could've come to me, Owen. you could've told me who you were and why you're here," Regina replied.

"Well...I think you know why I'm here," Greg stated.

"I honestly don't," Regina refuted, feigning ignorance, which made his blood boil.

"I'm looking for my father," he snapped.

"Your father? He left shortly after you did. I never saw him again," Regina answered.

"I don't believe you," Greg refuted.

"Be that as it may; it's the truth," Regina lied.

"People don't just disappear, Regina," he admonished.

"Scared little boys tend to have overactive imaginations," Regina commented.

"Well, I'm not a scared little boy anymore, Madam Mayor. Oh, I'm sorry...you're no longer the Mayor. That must sting," he goaded. Regina's nostrils flared and she clenched her fist, resisting the urge she had to choke him.

"It's taken me a long time to get back here and I'm not leaving without my father," he warned.

"I'm afraid you are, because he's not here and while I may not be the Mayor anymore, I still have power. I'll let Granny know you'll be checking out tomorrow," Regina threatened.

"Or what?" Greg challenged.

"Contrary to what you might think, people can just disappear," she threatened. Greg watched her go and clenched his fist.

"Not this time, you evil bitch...I swear I'm going to make you pay," Greg growled, as he slammed the door shut.

~*~

August groaned, as there was another knock on his trailer.

"I told you both to leave me alone!" he called with a touch of anger, thinking it was Snow and David again. But the door opened and if his eyes could have widened, they would have.

"Hey. Long time," Tamara greeted ominously...

[cursed-saphire-hart]

Title: Camping Trip Pairing: N/A Au: St Sea Angel Word Count: Rating: T Summary: (unfinished srry) A camping trip with a bunch of supernatural kids, what could go wrong?

@procrastinatingmod @cosmicoffee @supernaturalcakes @puffybunni @amethyst-lunar-rose-dragon @croctus

They had found out about the camping trip a while before summer vacation started, really anyone who was aware of the paranormal was allowed to attend so long as they paid the fee and followed the rules.

There were however a few new additions to the special dorms, a returned teen, a girl who was half dryad, and a little boy who was part demon, all three were also on the camping trip as, Piano, the special dorms Music teacher and Mr. Brody, the dorm master, lead the way to the camping grounds.

“We’re halfway there everyone, just keep moving and please keep on the trail!” the smaller of the two teachers shouted to the group behind them as the lot kept marching across the beaten trail through the woods as a few teachers lead the way.

It was a warm day and there was a long ways to walk from where the bus dropped them off. They had gotten there early since they had a long drive and a long walk too, but they could hardly complain or change their minds at this point. Other than the sound of wildlife, the forest air echoed with the voices of the students as they followed the trail.

Otis, Zero and a few others carried a few things they’d need while camping, “Why are we carrying this…?” the hound asked shifting the cooler he was carrying, his hands hurting a bit keeping them in one position too long, “Because, so just keep walking.” The fox rolled his eyes. “That’s not a valid answer..!” the green and red eyed hound barked slightly startling the purple half ghost teen as he floated by carrying a first aid bag, “Sorry Glitch,” he apologized as the teen just waved it off.

“I can help you carry it,” Lette offered to be nice, before the hound could answer, he was greeted with a face full of white fur when Otis smacked him in the face with his tail, careful not to drop what he was carrying, “No it’s fine, Zero’s more than capable than carrying it.” The white fox told her as Zero spat out some fur that had gotten in his mouth before giving his roommate a look.

Two teens chuckled at the pair’s argument, “How deep do you think we’re going to go?” Ryan asked while peaches napped in his arms as they kept walking. “Pretty far in, the cram school has one of these trips every year.” Tzili smiled, “It’s a lot of fun too, nine days of sleeping under the stars and hiking in the woods.” The two continued to chat as they walked; every now and again the red eyed girl looked at the two sisters making sure they were still insight, since the littler one had a bad tendency to wander off.

“Lava ground, Lava ground, watch out, watch out!” Desi sang happily giggling as she jumped on the large flat stones lining the beaten path avoiding touching the ground between them. “Careful kitty or you’ll slip,” her sister warned keeping hold of Kumo’s leash so he wouldn’t run off to chase the animals in the woods.

Lette had caught up to Queen so the two could chat as they walked past another group.

Krump, a new younger student who had enrolled around the time Glitch and Lette had, was keeping busy walking with Dre and Ser as he played with a small thin branch he had picked up as the two chatted between one another.

All the teens chatted with each other and the deeper they went in; the more things seemed to change, the air and the sounds in the forest, they just seemed different, though it was hard to place why they felt different.

After awhile of walking, and a few complaints later, the group came up to a clearing where they would camp for the week.

That particular area hadn’t been used for camping in awhile, so when they got there the grass had already grown out everywhere except the fire pit, so once everyone had a chance to rest, they were all preparing to set up their tents and get the area ready for their stay.

All the teens signed up to be in groups together in groups of 3-4 each and after given instructions, they all helped to clear the fire pit and put up protective charms to make sure they could at least sleep without a few more worries that went bump in the night.

“I’m hungry,” Desi mewed as helped Tzili hammer in the tent pegs to keep the small shelter grounded, Rosa who had already finished with her tent was tying Kumo’s leash to a tree so he’d stop trying to run off. “Just wait a bit longer kiddo, and we’ll eat, “Otis told her as he helped Ryan fix his tent, since he was having a bit of trouble.

Kramp’s tail twitched a bit as he overheard the others talk, “I’m kinda hungry too,” the little monster child muttered to himself as his stomach growled, “Here,” The boy looked up to see the hound kneeling over him holding a protein bar, “Thanks,” Kramp smiled taking the snack happily as Zero smiled.Rosa

“Hey Oats’ ya know what’s for lunch?” the hound asked as Tzili gave Desi a pack of trail mix. The white fox thought for a moment,“Probably something simple,” his tail flicked and went over to the coolers and thick plastic boxes of food, “I know we’ll be making bread over an open fire.”

After all the tents were pitched and the camping area was clear of fallen leaves and dried branches, “Ok, we’ll be dividing into two groups, one will stay with Piano and one go with me down to the river to mark a trail. Remember, one of the most important things about being in the wilderness is finding a source of water.” Mr. Brody called out after getting everyone’s attention.

With that the teens split up into two groups as told. One went with the dorm master and the other stayed behind to get started on dinner. They had brought food with them, but the next day they would go to forge to find things out in the forest that are edible. One of the reasons for the camping trip was to sharpen skills and to also see how well they paid attention in class.…

During their walk down to the river; Lette had paused for a moment, turning her head to look into the woods that surrounded her and the group.

“Lette!” Zero called out startling her out of her small trance and looked at him, “What’s the hold up?” It was than she noticed she had been staring off long enough for the group to get pretty ahead of her.

”You gotta stay with the group or Brody’s gonna get mad…” The dryad girl glance back in the direction for a moment, “Sorry, I’m coming,” she chirped trotting along after the group.

She had thought she heard something, but she brushed it off. Strange.

“What was the hold up?” the white fox asked when she caught up to the rest of them, “Nothing, I thought I heard something is all.” The smaller teen smiled, “But it was probably nothing.” she reassured, but Otis just flick his tail at her dismissing it. “Are you sure? I mean, not to be rude,” the fox scratched the back of his neck, “but usually when you think you her or see something, it usually means something’s there…”

The dryad thought for a moment, if it were something like a demon or animal, the others, especially Mr. Brody, would have sensed it, but as quick as the feeling came it also disappeared when she looked towards where it might have been. “It was probably a fae,” she said seeing that as the only conclusion. “If you guys didn’t sense it it was probably one of the faerie folk, so I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about.”

Otis flicked his tail again, but took that as a valid possibility, so with a nod, he let the subject drop for the time being as Zero said something about him being too overprotective or jumpy. Being that the Faefolk are in a league all they’re own, it was highly possible for Lette to be the only one to sense the presence of one.

“Seriously big guy, tone down the big brother mode,” the fox just smacked his roommate with his tail again not wanting to hear it.

Valid or not, he kept his senses on high alert.

After making it down to the river the group took a quick break, now that the sun was high in the sky, it was starting to really heat up.

“Hey Queen, can I talk with you a minute?” Otis asked walking up to the pretty teen who had been sitting in the shade of a tree to cool off while reading a magazine he had brought with him, “Sure,” he smiled nodding as he scooted over to let Otis sit next to him. Queen was the cram schools 11th generation wiccan from his father’s side, though he wasn’t obsessive or weird about it like others have tended to be.

“Did you feel anything while we were walking here?” he asked as his tail flicked a bit, “No why?” From there the fox explained the small conversation from earlier with Lette during the walk.

“I see, so you're worried there might be something out there?”

“Well, there’s always something out there…” the teen let out a dog-like whimper as his tail curled around himself, “But I still can’t help but worry about if what’s out there might try and cause us trouble. I mean, no offence to Lette,” If there’s one thing everyone knew, when Otis’ fox ears came out, it meant he was starting to stress out,” But a lot of the faefolk are known for causing more than just childish mischief and- Ow hey!” Queen stopped his rambling by hitting him on the head with his magazine after rolling it up to use it on the fox, who was now rubbing his head.

“Calm down and take a breath,” the smaller teen made a face at him, “I understand your concerns, but if you stress out now, you won’t have energy later…” Gently, he tugged on Otis’ fuzzy fox ear rubbing it between his thumb and index finger. “Plus your ears are showing.”

Otis let out a sigh looking down, “Sorry… I can’t help but worry…”

“That’s just because you have a big brother complex.”

“Don’t you start on that too…”….

Tzili watch as the two girls ran around the campsite playing with Kumo after giving them some protein bars to hold them over till meal time, reminding them to be careful while playing. Ser and Dre were busy clearing out the fire pit to get ready to make rice for lunch and dinner.

“Tzili! What’s for lunch?” Desi asked throwing her tiny body into the red eyed girl’s lap causing the older student to let out a small ‘Oof!’

“Well, Otis said he’d try and catch some fish so we could have them cook over burning pine cones.” Desi’s face lit up at the thought of grilled fish.

[leaughrilke]

how do the kiddos/Lena and kara react to the bad relationship Maia is in?

like..........not well.  like they react v well for her, in that they’re supportive and caring and do all the right stuff but it also tears them apart

not as in the family is torn apart, like they still are v much a family and v much a unit, but it rips kara and lena apart and it eats at finn and stella bc they all feel like they could have done more??  noticed before it got so bad, been more present

but basically maia is feeling v overlooked and forgotten abt, like classic middle child where she feels like stella’s the baby and finn’s the prodigal son and she’s just.......there??  like she feels like she’s the Angry One or whatever, not anything to be proud of.  but she’s not one to ever be forthright with her feelings??  like fuck that, she’s going to bottle that shit up so you never know the real reason for her getting upset.  so she’s feeling weird with her family, right??  and she’s in kind of a vulnerable place bc of it, always feeling like the black sheep, always feeling like a bit of a burden and high school is weird and everything is Weird, thats like the best way to put it.  maia’s in a state of flux, where she’s not the kiddo that anyone is expecting to go into the superhero business but she’s the one that desperately wants to (like stella will want to later, but rn??  its all maia) but no one acknowledges it bc she never says it

a lot of her problems are rooted in miscommunication tbh like she’ll just........not say anything but be like stewing over it for months ya feel?

so she’s feeling Weird and starts acting out a little, starts letting her grades drop and starts missing curfew and like that sort of puts a bit of a wedge between her and her family, bc her moms are like??  where is this coming from??  and her siblings are trying to talk to her but maia’s started looking at the world like it’s me vs everyone else so she shuts them out, refuses to talk to them abt anything important.  so there’s this distance btwn her and the rest of the family, this uncomfortable tension btwn her and her moms and it only feeds into this Weirdness more, leads maia to make more Bad decisions like cutting class to hang out more with these kids she met at the skate park over the summer and its rlly nice??  like she feels heard, feels validated and like her friends from school are nice, are rlly good, but they sort of are like??  it sucks you feel bad but your moms do love you??  talk to them abt this maybe??  and maia’s like lol no, just spends more time with the ppl that are validating her feelings, not asking her to analyze anything, just letting her be

and she has rlly intense chemistry with this one boy in the group??  like its immediate and maia’s dated a little bit but she’s p intense, scares ppl off p often but this boy isnt intimidated, seems to see right through her, seems to see that she’s angry bc she’s scared of a lot, that she’s not as hard and sharp as she acts

and he likes her and she likes him so they get together and maia feels so normal??  like for a hot second she just feels like a regular kid and its so addictive that feeling, she’s not willing to give it up.  and her bf is so sweet at first, texts her a couple times a day and calls her after school and brings her snacks when they meet up at the park

i’m putting this under the cut bc the subject matter can be v triggering, pls check the tags and pls pls pls dont read this if any of the warnings apply to you.  be safe, i love you

and then, bc it starts so calmly, so carefully, she doesnt rlly worry when it starts to change, when he starts telling her that she’s exhausting, that her negativity is killing him.  like??  she already thinks that abt herself, knows she’s intense and moody and angry more often than she’s not, knows she’s a lot to handle, already thinks she’s too Much.  so she changes a little, stops venting to him, starts bottling it up again.  then its him blaming her for arguments they have, so she tries hard to not start any.  then its demanding that she text him back immediately, even when he’s texting her hundreds of times in a day, so she starts keeping her phone on her at all times.  then its this, then its that and through it all, maia’s getting a little smaller, a little quieter, a little Less.  she’s trying to fit herself into the box he’s drawing around her and she’s not happy with it but she loves him, right??  and he loves her??  he’s the only one that rlly understands her, he’s the only one that rlly cares how she’s feeling, even if sometimes he’s too upset with his own stuff to listen to her, even if sometimes he makes fun of her in front of their friends even when she tells him it makes her uncomfortable

and she hides this all from her moms for a long time, makes up excuses for why she’s missing family dinners and movie nights, says she’s just stressed, just tired.  she avoids finn bc he’s always known her tells, avoids stella bc her little sister can literally see into ppl’s minds and she doesnt know why, but she doesnt want ppl to know abt her relationship.  she avoids lena bc lena’s got this knack for figuring out when her kids are keeping secrets, avoids kara bc kara believes so wholeheartedly in her that it makes her feel set on edge.  she keeps skipping school until it becomes a Problem, until the school calls her moms but they’re both in the middle of something, miss the call, so they call Emergency Contact #1 aka alex and alex is like ???  wtf like maia’s a bit of a hothead sometimes but she’s not reckless necessarily, especially when it comes to school, so she goes to campus, sees maia’s car and is like mmmmmm this is Wrong.  so when maia comes back at the end of the day, alex is sitting on the hood of her car and is like hey.  we’re going to talk.

and maia’s like.......rlly sensitive??  like somewhere deep down, she knows there’s something off about the situation, that’s why she’s so desperate to hide it, but she’s not like conscious of it, she just gets rlly defensive, gets rlly prickly, and she’s not great at hiding it when she’s displeased or upset but its so muted when alex confronts her and that, in of itself, is a giant fucking red flag bc maia should like??  be arguing, getting irritated like maia weirdly takes after alex in a lot of respects and alex Knows something’s wrong.  so she kind of drops it bc maia’s just giving her this look like she’s begging her not to press too hard

like obviously alex doesnt Drop It, she just backs off maia directly for a bit, goes over her head to kara and lena and they’re like SHIT this makes a lot of things make sense and its like, ok, we can handle this

FALSE

maia reacts v badly when her moms sit her down to like.....gently ask what the fuck is happening.  like there’s a lot sort of just simmering below the surface, like her bf has been rlly difficult recently and she’s stressed abt that and she’s angry that alex found out, that alex told her moms, she’s angry that she’s getting called on it, that it feels like the only time she gets attention is when she’s fucked up, and it all comes to a head during this one moment.  like.  it’s the worst fight any of the kiddos have ever had with their moms.  like maia’s full out screaming at them and they’re just completely caught off guard bc there’s usually some lead up??  something that builds to a meltdown but nope, not this time, she goes zero to one hundred in a blink and stella and finn are just like hunkered down upstairs, staring at each other like HOLY SHIT maia never yells at moms like that

like its awful, terrible but it kind of makes things better for a while??  like maia screams it all out, her anger, her feeling of being left out, how hurt she feels sometimes, all the things that she’s never let her moms know and then its kind of like.  oh.  its over now.

and things get a little better after that??  maia takes the inevitable grounding with no argument, but that is like......Another Problem.  like maia without any fight??  with no indignant anger???  that’s a maia that none of them have ever encountered and it sets everyone on edge, how quiet maia is, how small she makes herself.  but there’s no like??  cause as far as anyone but maia can see.  so her moms are a bit more careful with her, her siblings are a little more gentle, kara and lena go out of their way to arrange things to do with maia on her own, to make sure she feels seen and included but by this point, her boyfriend’s been filling her head with really toxic shit, feeding into her venting and solidifying the idea that she’s less than her siblings in someway, so even their best efforts are shrugged off.  maia has a million excuses prepped and ready for why she can’t make it to the planetarium with lena, why she has to miss stella’s soccer game, why she turns kara down when she offers to go flying, just the two of them.  she’s become a great liar, really, was always a little clumsy with out and out lies when she was a child but now she’s almost as good as stella

speaking of stella.  she sees him first.  in maia’s mind, when she finally shows up to family game night and finn shouts a little bc they’re playing monopoly and maggie just bought the property he wanted and maia doesnt so much flinch as she does freeze for one, nearly imperceptible moment and stella sees this face, this boy in maia’s mind but he’s smiling??  and she brushes it off at the moment, but it nags at her for a while until she’s asked maia to help braid her hair for her seventh grade dance and they’re up in maia’s room, out of lena’s hearing and kara’s out on a supergirl mission so stella sort of asks are you dating anyone?  and there’s that freeze again, that moment and stella feels the dilemma as maia navigates it, as she decides if she should lie when stella will definitely be able to tell, and then finally maia says kind of quietly yeah, i am and then stella’s asking for details, when’d they meet, does he go to school with maia, when is she going to introduce him to the family and maia just shuts her down.  switches subjects in a manner that is v final and stella’s not going to push, she’s never been one to push

but now maia’s thinking about it and there’s no way stella’s going to be able to keep this a secret from their moms for very long, so she bites the bullet, tells them in a v blunt way

quite literally walks into the kitchen one morning and is like hey.  im dating someone and then just runs out the room before anyone can say anything else

so obviously kara and lena are like ???  ok!!  we wanna meet them!!  invite them over for dinner!!  and maia’s like SHIT i didnt think this through but she cant tell them no straight out without them being like why, whats going on, so she says she’ll invite him and so she mentions it to her bf the next time she sees him and he’s like Upset and Hurt that she wants to burst their little bubble, but he “loves her enough to meet her family” (said with a sigh and a glare that has maia shrinking, apologizing)

so he comes round for dinner and stella’s the one that gets to the door before maia, that pulls it open to meet her sister’s mystery man and she immediately gets a bad vibe from him.  like straight off the bat, she looks him up and down and is like No but then maia’s pushing her to the side and pulling him into the house and stella’s just sort of standing there like This is Wrong, I Dont Like This, just trails them after a moment, follows them into the kitchen where everyone’s doing the whole meet n greet thing, the Boyfriend is presenting the flowers he brought and keeping one hand around maia’s waist and he’s shaking hands with finn and smiling all wide and bright and smug, as if he’s already won something and all stella can hear from maia is please like him please like him please like him which wouldn’t be super weird???  but there’s this intense desperation behind it that sets stella on edge

so when she gets the chance, when finn’s chatting with maia and her bf, stella pulls her moms into the kitchen and tells them what she feels, that something is Wrong.  and like???  she doesnt have the words for it bc she’s thirteen and hasn’t ever really been exposed to anything like this, but she knows this guy is a bad dude and she says as much and kara and lena are like shit okay our empath/mind reader of a daughter is getting Bad Vibes, we should keep an eye on him, so they do the entire night and its like.  there arent any red flags or anything, isnt any bad behavior, but maia is too tense and this dude is too smooth and they’ve both???  been through this???  can see the subtle signs??  can see the way maia freezes a little when this boy puts his arm around her, the way she keeps watching him out of the corner of her eye, how she’ll switch subjects if there’s even the slightest change in his expression like.........maia’s never been a jumpy person, has always been sure footed and confident since she was very little, and kara’s got kill bill sirens going in her head and lena’s got this sick feeling in her stomach, stella’s sitting next to maia and refusing to move, glaring at her boyfriend whenever he’s looking a different direction and finn, godbless him, is looking from his moms to stella to maia sitting so stiffly on the couch, looking entirely uncomfortable in her home, in her own space and he catches stella’s eye, raises one eyebrow and then all he gets in like the in-mind version of all caps is stella just yelling BAD VIBE over and over again

so the night is tense to say the least and stella insists on maia sitting next to her at dinner, leaving her boyfriend sandwiched between finn and lena who both have like.........impressive death glares and maia’s getting more and more agitated, like pushing for the meal to wrap up quickly and it finally does, after her moms grilling this guy to get like a better grasp on the type of awful he is and maia’s like saying she’ll walk him out and kara and lena are both like we’ll come with you and maia’s like No but her bf just squeezes her shoulder and is like nah, it’s fine with this smarmy smile and stella’s still glaring but now finn’s glaring too

so he leaves finally and he reels maia in for a kiss that she v obviously is uncomfortable with so kara like straightens to her full height, crosses her arms and tells him she’s sure he needs to be home and he must sense somethings changed bc then he like just stops putting on a smile for kara and lena, turns fully to maia and tells her to call him tonight and maia sort of nods quickly, seems intent on just getting him to leave, get out of her mother’s view

as soon as he drives away, maia’s like speed walking to the house and trying to run up the stairs, to her phone, but kara kind of catches her hand and is like hey.  we need to talk about something.  and maia’s like ??  can it wait, i need to text him and stella’s like um he just left, which is when lena shoos the other kiddos out of the house, handing finn some cash and telling him to take stella to get ice cream.  so then its just them and maia and maia’s fidgety, wont keep eye contact for very long and kara mentions that, mentions how maia’s changed over the last few months and lena’s saying that they’re worried for her, about her, worried that maybe this boy isn’t healthy for her and maia’s like what do you guys know, he loves me and then lena's explaining darling i've been there, i know what you're feeling, but this isn't love and you deserve better and kara’s thinking about that one time maia came home with a bruise (thanks to the supplement, she can bruise) and she said she got it in gym but now kara’s wondering and they’re being v gentle, asking if she’s happy, asking if he’s kind to her and maia so desperately knows they’re right on some level but that’s buried v deep down and she doesnt want to have to drag it to the surface so she just........flips out

like screams and cries and leaves, storms out and flies away before the conversation can get too far, just yells  that she cant believe theyre trying to ruin the one good thing in her life trying to take away the one person that actually give a shit about her

and she flies to meet up with bf at his place and is telling him about their fight and he's like yeah your moms are fucked up, we're in love obviously, they just dont want to see you happy, they like your brother and sister more like all this really toxic shit that he's been feeding her for months, slowly poisoning her against her family and friends

but now she's got this seed of doubt at the back of her head like wait my mothers were really great when i was a kid, did they really change?

is this love or was i just happy for attention?

my moms always tell us that no matter what we do, as long as we're happy and safe they'll support it and they've never proven that wrong right?

so she's having a crisis and he's like pushing to have sex (it's not their first time, and it's not the first time he's had to convince her) and maia's like wait no i need a minute let me riddle this thing out

and he's getting like majorly pouty and upset like right, pick them over me, leave me just like everyone else and maia's staring at him like what the fuck and so she says as much, says that her moms do love her and he’s like ??  really maia?  and it goes from there, turns into an argument and he’s saying some really awful things to her 

and he’s in the middle of telling her that she’s nothing, that she should be grateful he’s wasting his energy and time trying to fix her when kara breaks the door and says flatly whoops and lena marches in and essentially tells this guy to fuck off (actually she quite literally tells him to fuck off, how dare you speak to my daughter like that) as she wraps an arm around maia and guides her out and maia’s sort of shellshocked??  like shit.  shit holy shit 

she just like.  breaks down in the car.  like the moment lena’s pulled the door closed behind them, maia’s just falling apart in a way that lena’s never seen her, like shaking and rocking and full body sobs and kara’s still inside the boys house, having a Talk but then she hears maia’s crying and is just like.  you’re garbage, we’re going to ruin your life before she leaves 

maia cries most of the night.  like suddenly everything bad that’s been happening is at the forefront of her mind but her self esteem is so shattered, she’s just blaming herself.  she has like??  three panic attacks and her moms stay with her through it all, keeping her tucked between them, petting her hair and telling her that none of this is her fault, that they’re sorry for not seeing what was happening.  when finn and stella come back, they follow the sound of sobbing up to their moms room, drop everything to join the cuddle pile that’s happening.  stella tucks herself right next to maia, takes her hands and as much of her pain as she can, tries to give her as much peace as she can.  and finn’s never been so close to violence in his life, feels an itch in his fists that is entirely unfamiliar, finds himself struggling to be in the same room with maia bc she’s his little sister???  he’s supposed to keep her safe, you know??  

it’s a hard night.  it is.  maia cant sleep, just keeps crying, keeps sobbing out that he’s good, he is, it’s her fault, so no one sleeps that night, they all stay up and try and find something, anything to make it better for her

and thankfully it’s just nearly break, so kara calls their schools, says there’s been a family emergency and the kids wont be in for the last couple days of term, calls works and says much the same for her, and lena calls in to request all meetings be postponed until further notice, to take a leave of absence.  stella won’t leave maia’s side even when the bags under stella’s eyes get too deep, when it becomes clear this is taking too much of a toll on her to keep acting as a sponge for maia’s turmoil, for her pain.  maia’s her big sister and they fight a lot but she knows all the shit maia’s done for her, loves her sister enough to bear some of the burden.  

lena finds the number for her old therapist, the one she saw when she finally realized her first relationship had been emotionally abusive.  they’ve retired, but they recommend someone for maia.  kara v quietly lets alex and maggie know whats going on, grabs alex’s hand when she breaks and god, alex feels so guilty, feels like she should have known, seen it, done more.  they dont tell anyone else, decide to leave it up to maia if she wants to give out specifics to anyone else in the family, but they do tell the rest of the superfriends that maia’s going through something right now

and through these awful first weeks, maia’s ex keeps calling her, texting her and she always reaches for the phone, so finally finn takes it when she’s napping, goes to the deo and asks winn to reroute incoming calls from this number to go through his phone first.  he starts picking up the calls, switches off with stella to threaten the guy, tell him in no uncertain terms that he’s never coming near their sister again

and maia’s??  not handling well.  she’s doing as well as can be expected, i guess, but there are some days where she’s okay-ish and can be logical and removed enough to acknowledge that there were unhealthy dynamics (she wont call it abuse, refuses the term for now), but most days she cycles between sobbing and saying she loves him, misses him, wondering if he’s okay without her and other times she’s angry and tells everyone that its their fault he’s ignoring her now

the therapy helps??  it helps a lot actually, not only with this but with her anger issues and other stuff too.  it also helps repair her relationship with her moms, who are honestly so so steadfast in their support like kara or lena always pick her up after therapy bc she’s always a little raw afterwards, shouldnt rlly be alone, and one time its kara and maia walks out, gets into the car and says rlly abruptly that her therapist thinks she should do group sessions with her moms separately and kara doesnt even hesitate, she’s just like yes okay what day what time, i’ll text lena to let her know her session

it takes like a Long time for maia to feel even a tenth like her old self.  like a Loooooong time.  but she eventually does and that’s mostly due to how good her moms and siblings are in the aftermath.  like kara and lena both have been where she’s been so they know what to say, how to say, what not to do and they’re so careful to walk this delicate tightrope where they make it clear that this guy was bad for maia but also acknowledging that she was in love with him, that she was v invested in this relationship

and when they go back to school, there’s some rumors bc its high school, but finn sort of fills in maia’s friends a little and they step the fuck up, circle around her and protect her as fiercely as she’s always protected them and finn runs interference whenever it looks like someone might give her shit for the way her ex has mysteriously been stripped of his scholarship to his school, or how his sat cheating scheme was somehow uncovered (*finger guns* uncle winn to the rescue)

stella’s room shares a wall with maia’s; their beds line up with the other bc when they were younger, they used to tap morse code to one another.  maia, even as she grew older, never bothered to move it, so stella’s in close proximity to maia every night, close enough that any strong emotion maia feels is enough to wake her up, so whenever maia’s having a crying jag and cant get out of bed to get kara or lena, its stella that comes to her, crawls up beside her v carefully and presses all the softness, all the warmth and peace she carries inside her to maia, tries to give her as much of a break as she can manage, just enough for maia to sleep

it fucks them all up for a rlly long time.  like.  a Rlly long time.  maia has to work through everything she’s been through, has to slowly relearn herself, build up her belief in herself and trust in others.  her family has to process the guilt they carry, the grief for all the pain maia’s gone through.  its hard, but they love each other and they come through it together, bruised but intact, still whole, still a family