#snapped at his mom because she *checks notes* cooked the food to his preferences (he likes his meat drier than everyone else)

[fruitless-vain]

I feel like it is potentially not the wildest idea that perhaps if you Hate Christmas and are going to be a Rude Ass Cunt for the entire evening it may be a good idea to not demand that the holiday happens at your house? Demanding that *you host* claiming that you *love hosting* and then, actually, getting mad at everyone for every little thing and overall just having an obnoxious attitude complaining left right and centre over any thing you can think of

You can just choose to not be a part of the holiday. You can be a grown ass adult and say “I don’t want to receive or give gifts this year” or “I’m not liking hosting so let’s do it elsewhere” or any number of potential communication tactics that aren’t Snapping At Everyone For Any Given Reason

You can just, yknow, not participate instead of actively ruining the evening for everyone you’re supposed to care about?

[donutloverxo]

Mommy dearest

Note- my mum said she wouldn't let me marry Steve cause he'd cheat on me lol. If only she knew Steve perfect human™ Rogers. 

Please do not steal or repost my works. Reblogs are welcome.

Summary- Meeting the parents is never easy. Will Steve be able to work his way into your mums heart?

Pairing- Steve Rogers x desi!reader

Word count- 1.3k

Masterlist

Steve smiled looking at your head resting on his shoulder. You fell asleep watching some in-flight entertainment. He could feel you drooling on his shirt. He had half a mind to wake you up, you were going to your mothers house directly from the airport, he wouldn’t have time to change his clothes or make his face. He needed to look presentable. First impressions do matter.

But then you snaked your hand around his bicep cuddling it to snuggle closer to him. He couldn’t wake you up now.

He traced the diamond on your engagement ring. He had asked you to marry him over a month ago and you made him the happiest man in the world by saying yes.

He would have preferred to ask your mother for your hand first, but she had no clue that he existed. Something that still annoys him. But he trusted you when you said that you needed time.

He was excited to meet your family, see the house you grew up in. At the same time he was terrified. He was told that he’s perfect relationship material many times, he tried his best to be the most perfect boyfriend and now fiancé he could. He had no clue if your mother would like him. If she’d consider him too old for you or not approve of your relationship or unworthy of you.

“Oh god Steve. I didn’t realise you were such a diva” You teased rolling your eyes. Steve had spent over half an hour in the airport bathroom, it looked like he had combed his hair, changed his shirt and shaved? “Did you shave?” you asked running your fingers through his smooth jaw.

“Had to get rid of that five o’clock shadow. Come on we have to look for a florist” He urged you to walk pushing your lower back.

“Oh I told you my mum thinks flowers are a waste of money”

You felt nostalgic as you looked at your hometown, the neighborhoods you still remembered like the back of your hand, pass by through the window. You would've enjoyed some more sight seeing had it not been for your fiancés fidgeting.

You pressed your palm on his thigh to stop him from shaking. “It’ll be alright Steve. She’ll love you I promise”

He may put on the brave macho mask for the entire world but for you he will always be the little guy with a big heart from Brooklyn.

You had no idea if it would be alright. You could sense your mums disappointment when you told her you were engaged to Steve. You hoped she would grow to love him or at least like him. It would mean the world to him and to you.

You ringed the doorbell jumping up and down excited to see her after over a year. Steve was right behind you carrying your bags after paying for the cab.

You jumped on her as soon as she opened the door, wrapping your arms around her, engulfing her a bone crushing hug. She hugged you back telling you just how much she missed you. You pulled back and shyly introduce Steve.

“This is Steve” You said holding his hand as if presenting a project you made in art class.

“Ma'am” He formally greeted her handing her the bouquet he got for her. “These are for you”

“Thank you” She smiled taking a whiff of the pink tulips. Craning her neck up to look at his face. “You are very tall” She noted. To which you and Steve let out a laugh. “Let’s get you inside. Dinner is almost done”

You both washed up meeting your mum at the dinning table. You proudly showed her your engagement ring. Telling her all about how Steve got down on his knee giving you a tear-jerking speech. How he was basically your prince charming.

Steve nervously stared at the food. He knew just how hot Indian food can be. It would be absolutely rude if he didn’t finish his plate. Your mother had worked so hard to cook it for you, she also seemed to have given him a lot, maybe because he looked like someone who eats a lot.

You all made small talk over the dinner, talking about your flight, your work. Steve was eating the food by pacing himself with some water. He could get through it.

“Being an avenger must be a tough job”, your mother said looking at him.

“Yes it is ma'am. But at the end of the day it’s worth” He smiled at her to diffuse some of the tension he felt was going to come.

“How many hours would you say you work in a week?”

“Whoa mummy. Whats this twenty questions?” you blurted out

He squeezed your hand under the table to let you know it was okay “Well it’s different every week. Sometimes we have missions, sometimes..”

“Give me an approximate” She interrupted him.

“Uh...” He looked over at you for some help but you looked just as anxious as him “about seventy hours a week”

She nodded acknowledging his answer, not seeming too pleased by it. The rest of the dinner was extremely awkward. With you trying your best to make some conversation only to be met with silence from both Steve and mum. After dinner Steve offered to clear up the table and do the dishes.

“He’s going to be away a lot. Are you reader for that?” She asked the moment you were alone.

“He always makes time for me” You said defensively. It was something both you and Steve struggled with at the start of your relationship but you had gotten over it by now by finding a good balance. He had cut back a lot on his work even going as far as to say that he’d be willing to give it up for you. If only you could show your mum how much he loved you.

“I only want what’s best for you. He has a dangerous job. What if he doesn’t come back home”

“I know he will. I have faith in him. He’s making the world a better place, I’m proud of him”

“Are you sure honey? I read that he has an affair with the black widow”

“Mom don’t read those stupid tabloids” you snapped. Natasha, for some reason, was always a favorite target of those damn magazines. “They’re just spreading rumors so they can sell more copies”

She sighed leaning back on her chair. “He’s from the 40s. You do know how they treated women back then”

“I know. If you try to get to know him you will see he’s nothing like that”

“Well I’ll know it when I see it” She stated.

For the rest of the weekend she made sure to observe Steve. She was almost shocked when he offered to cook lunch for all of you. Pleasantly surprised at how much she liked the Irish stew.

She especially liked how fondly he spoke of his mother and of you. She did ban you from sleeping in the same room as him, which was expected.

The weekend was over too quickly. You almost didn’t want to leave.

“I’ll check your horoscopes and look for a good date” she said hugging you goodbye, giving Steve a squeeze on his arm.

“Wait what?” you asked not believing your ears.

“You do want to get married don’t you” she deadpanned

“Yes, yes we do!” Steve grinned resisting the urge to hug his future mother-in-law.

“I’ll call you with the dates then” She said waving you both off.

Satisfied with the mission accomplished Steve kicked back on the cab ride to the airport, feeling as if he could finally breathe. Hunting down hydra agents was somehow easier than trying to get your mothers blessing. But well for you, he’d do just about anything. He kissed your knuckles.

“I can’t wait to marry you” He gushed.

[yamithediaperdork]

My Cousin is CRAZY! (Ben10 alien force)

My cousin is crazy

It was Saturday morning in Bellwood and 15 year old Ben Tennyson was slowly waking up to the smell of bacon and eggs. It was strange because his parents were on a vegan kick at the moment but he decided to roll with it and opened his eyes as he went to sit up. And then groaned out loud as he took in stock of his attire and what he was sleeping in. Not for the first time since Gwen had started working out hardcore last year the girlish Ben had found his cousin perv'ing on him and deciding he should be her sissy baby wife. Despite making his lack of interest in such plans clear MORE then once, It hadn't of stopped Gwen from snagging him up at random times and dressing him up. Case and point, he was currently in what he estimated as 5 princess reaz's diapers (he'd sadly become familiar with the different brands because of Gwen) and a dark pink top with lighter pink puffed out shoulders and a semi skirt that didn't even cover half of the diapers. The top also had a red heart on the front with white writing in cursive declaring 'i wove my mommy' going along with the top and diapers his hands were in locking mittens meaning any attempt to use the omnitrix was doomed to fail and his feet covered in booties with slick bottoms so Ben would end up having to crawl unless he wanted to fall on his ass every 12 steps. 'At least she didn't put the paci in my mouth this time.' Ben thought with a sulky though a pat on his head told him she had put the silly over sized bow in his hair again, the damn thing pink with white poka dots. As for what he was in, again this wasn't a shock to him as it wasn't the first time but he was still less then pleased to have gone to sleep in his own bed in a pair of boxers and wake up in the hot pink crib Gwen had built just for him during her wood shop class. And of course since she wasn't shy of telling people who it was for Ben had been forced to endure even more teasing at school though ironically just verbal, no bullies had darned to lay a finger on him and have to deal with Gwen's almost super human power and bulk. The last bully who had tried had been found hanging from a flag pole by a pair of Barbie pants. Struggling to get to his feet on the purple sheet covered queen sized mattress and ignoring the fuzzy white and pink blanket and pillows in the crib with him (not to mention a dolly or too) Ben took in a deep breath and then hollered at the opened door frame of Gwen's room. "GWEN YOU SICK BITCH! YOU'VE BEEN TOLD TO STOP KIDNAPPING ME AND DRESSING ME IN DRAG AND HUGGIES! COME IN HERE AND LET ME OUT OF THIS OUTFIT BEFORE I GET YOU IN SHIT WITH YOURS AND MINE PARENTS AND GRANDPA MAX TOO!" It was the only threat that normally worked as while they're parents thought it was mostly cute, they all agreed that Gwen kidnapping Ben crossed a line. other then that though it was fair game if he was out of the house. Grandpa Max was nicer about it in Ben's view as he made the rust bucket a official safe zone that even Gwen respected and so Ben found himself hanging out less with Gwen and Kevin and more with Gramps. Kevin for his part was all too happy to stay out of it, treating the whole thing as a bullet dodged when him and Gwen had never hit it off and a better Ben then him. Ben didn't have to wait long as he swore he could almost feel the food steps of Gwen as she made her way towards the room.

Between the insane amount of weights she worked and the reps she put into and a unexpected growth spurt Gwen looked like she could of been a WWE at her 6'10 height and 320 pounds of mostly muscle. She kept her Orange hair short and was wearing a pair of grey jogging pants and white under shirt that showed off her girl abs. "Awww is my darling widdle wife to be awake?" She coo'ed, cupping her hands together and flashing Ben a big smile. "Gwen, for the LAST time, I'm not going to marry you. I'm not going to be your sissy baby, now PLEASE let me go. I'm not joking, I'll call Grandpa Max over and get you in SO much trouble." Ben huffed, trying to look intimidating but his outfit made that all but impossible. "Awww such a silly widdle gurl! Did widdle Benny forget that this is our parents couples retreat weekend? And gramp's is off on Plumber work! That means I got widdle Benny to myself allll weekend." Gwen gushed and came over, lifting him out of the crib with ease and holding him up so she could give his padded rump a sniff. "Ah crap baskets..That was THIS weekend?" Ben whined, not even bothering to point out he would of said something if he had used the diapers. He'd tried to make plans to hang out with cooper for that weekend but had clearly gotten his dates wrong and was capital S screwed for the next 48 hours. "Hmm Doesn't smell like Benny has made me a present yet..but I know you will soon enough. you just love to make presents for your hubby don't you?" Gwen coo'ed and moved him down enough she could give him a Eskimo kiss. "Oh yeah. highlight of my weekend, fudging a diaper." Ben said sarcastically. "Now now, I know you're just grumpy because you didn't get to play with me last night, but I had to take care of a few things. But we have allll weekend sweetie. And if you promise to be a good little gurl for me I'll be nice and spoil you with all the junk food you want. After all you need to put on some baby fat." Gwen chuckled and kissed his cheek. Ben groaned, Gwen was always trying to chub him up, but given the fact he'd been subjected to the 'wonder's' of a baby food and formula weekend before, and the fact he was trapped regardless he just hung his head. "Fine, I'll play along. but for the record, you need help." Ben huffed. "Oh please, I can handle my widdle wife for a weekend!" Gwen chuckled and carried Ben off towards the kitchen.

Strapped into a wooden but painted light pink high chair, Ben played along with his crazy cousin and held up his arms so she could remove his top and replace it with a hello kitty bib. "Now Benny, if I remove your mitten's and let you feed yourself, you're not gonna do something stupid and try and use your silly little watch now are you?" Gwen asked. Considering between her bulk and her magic Gwen out classed most of Ben's aliens anyways and she always made sure he was sorry for trying to go alien on her after he timed out, Ben decided that having the freedom to feed himself was worth playing along. "Yeah I'll be good.." Ben said and held up his hands. She studied his face for a second, as if deciding whether or not to trust him then smiled. "I believe you. I really hope we can have a nice weekend together and I don't end up having to spank you. it hurts me then it does you when I have to." Gwen said then moved to free up Ben's hands. 'Bullshit on that one!' Ben thought but wisely kept his thoughts to himself and just flexed his fingers, and looked at the watch. "I'm not going alien, I'm just checking to make sure no alien got primed to go while the mitten on so I don't accidentally go alien and get my cheeks tanned." He said, and then after getting a smirk and a nod from Gwen checked the watch. Thankfully nothing was primed and he made sure to show the psycho and then wiggled in the high chair as he waited on her to plate up some num nums for him. Everything else aside, Gwen really was a excellent cook and she didn't hold back as she put the piled high plate of scrambled eggs and Bacon and some pancakes down in front of Ben and handed him a baby fork and knife. She had also poured on the maple syrup and set down a one liter baby bottle full of chocolate milk for him and kissed his cheek. "Eat up little lady.Oh, did you want me to put a show or something on for you while you eat up? I think Sumo slammers is having a marathon on channel 6 today." Gwen asked, nodding to the Kitchen TV her mom had had put in back during the 90's. "..That would be agreeable yes." Ben said, trying not to break out into a silly grin before he started to dig into the food, watching as Gwen was proven right. 'you know.. the huggies and drag aside, I could get used to being spoiled like this.' Ben thought.

Gwen smirked as she watched Ben chow down and kick his legs ideally in the high chair. while she would of preferred he watch something a little less violent she had changed up her usual plan for weekend sessions with her soon to be sissy bride. Trying to enforce the baby food and sissy programs only made him fight it more so she was gonna meet him halfway and try to ease him more into baby gurlhood. One added bonus though she noticed with a big grin while she had her normal bowl of high protein gruel was that Ben was even more of a messy eater then normal as he watched his show, getting syrup all over his face and bib and eggs and bits of bacon were all over the place. 'He's such a big baby! I love it!' She mentally squealed. It only got better as halfway though his plate, he reached for his his ba-ba and held it with BOTH hands like a good baby gurl and she was fighting the urge to squeal out loud. Anytime she tended to praise him for his babyish behavior he always tried to cut it out. Finishing her gruel she washed it down with a protein drink and noted that Ben was squirming around lots in his high chair, with most of his food gone and the little sissy had packed away HALF of his milk already. "Doing alright over there baby gurl?" She asked. Ben seemed to snap out of his show induced trance and blushed. "I uh..I gonna potty..and I think I got a gas bubble stuck." He said, poking two fingers together. '..Is he asking me to burp him?' Gwen wondered but was ALL grin's "Well that's no good! here, let me help you out. whats a little gas between husband and wife?" She said. Coming over she grabbed a dish towel and a wet dish rag, putting the towel over one shoulder and then moved Ben's num num's and ba-ba over onto the kitchen table and removed his bib. washing the big baby's face and chest down she removed the tray and lifted him up, swooning as his legs wrapped around her and he helped her get his head over the towel. Rubbing his back she gave it all of three firm but gentle pats before Ben let out a massive belch over her shoulder and spit up a little bit of milk. "Uh...T-Thanks Gwen." A sheepish Ben half coo'ed and then switched shoulders and nuzzled into her. "Do you want me to set you down so you can go and hide while you make potty?" She offered, clearly trying to meet him half way was working wonders. "I..I Uh..no." Ben Mewed into her shoulder, which of course muffled his voice but she got the jest of it. "You wanna use your diapers while your bride to be holds you tight and praises you for being a good girl?" Gwen asked, grinning ear to ear and holding Ben close and rubbing his lower back. "I..I dunno..Maybe..I mean..If I can't use the potty..I guess it's.." Ben Mumbled into her shoulder, She could tell he'd of rather used the bathroom, which was a touch disappointing to her but still, with him willing to go in his pampers while she held him being his second choice that meant she was making headwind. "Do you wanna keep your face in my big strong shoulder or be turned around facing away from my?" She asked, then leaned down and kissed his neck, knowing from Julie (who had dumped Ben mostly because she shipped the pair) just how much he loved having his neck kissed and nibbled on. Case and point Ben didn't even really reply, just snuggled into her harder. Taking that as a answer Gwen made her way over to a kitchen chair and took a seat, Ben's legs on either side of her lap and his arms hugging her, while one of her strong hands rubbed and patted his pampered bottom. Her other hand was rubbing and pressing on certain spots on Ben's back and it didn't take loud before her efforts were rewarded as a muffled poot came out his backside, then anther and anther and she could feel him starting to push and grunt. "That's it baby gurl, let it all out. make me a nice big present." Gwen coo'ed sweetly in his ear and follow up with giving him a gentle start of a hickey on his neck as he began to fill his pretty pink diapers. "G-Gwen! Dun! N-Not while I'm pooping!" Ben meekly whimpered, though he tilted his head in such a fashion that he was offering her a even better shot at his neck. "Heh, Somebodies gonna be a tsundere diaper sissy for me huh? That's ok. I think it's adorable." Gwen chuckled, feeling the lumps of Ben's 'present' to her fill up the back of his diapers and mentally giving thanks to whatever mage had made the spell that allowed her to only smell strawberries in cream as Ben loaded his huggies. 'Maybe if he's a good gurl at our wedding, on our honeymoon I'll cast it on him too.' Gwen thought. Food for thought later, She had a good little gurl dumping his guts in his pampers for her and whimpering for his reward and as such, she leaned down and started to gently nibble and suck away on Ben's neck, smirking as the little sissy let out a soft "I love you.." as she did so.

The end

[renwritesstuff]

we are family

Day 4: we are family.

Describe or draw a familiar moment. Are they close, or estranged? Are they blood relatives, or family found with friends?

Two Traynors stared each other down, hands hovering over a small box. There were 5 empty shot glasses in a semicircle around them, flanking the pristine chess board between the pair.

Wiping her hands with a dish towel, Priya Suresh-Traynor pleaded with her family. “Dessert is almost ready, do you two have to do this now?”

“The fate of the galaxy depends on it, mum,” Samantha Traynor mumbled back, not breaking eye contact with her father.

“You heard the kid,” Geoffrey Traynor seconded with a lazy smile. “I need to know my little sprog‘s mind hasn’t gotten soft since she’s been away.”

“Soft?? Did you miss the part where I kicked Polgara T’Suza’s arse across the Citadel?”

“Vid or it didn’t happen.”

What are you, five??

...God, I wish I had a vid. Are there vids? I wonder if I can ask for one...

“I have a trophy proving it happened. And a witness.” Sam’s eyes flitted over to the witness in question, her gaze narrowing.

Commander Annelise Shepard held her glass of red wine in surrender. Her voice came out wet and shaky from her fresh sip. “She’s—” Shepard patted her chest from the cough. “—She’s correct. She electrocuted that asari good.” 

And got a shower as a prize.

That narrow challenge in her eyes switched to panic as Sam glanced back at her father, who was tsking in disapproval. “Neuro-feedback chess? ...Sammy. You didn’t.”

The Comms Specialist scowled. “I didn’t choose it, it was part of the tourney rules. Usually, yes, I have slightly more integrity.” Unless I really want to win, that is. “It was just a lark, father.”

“Well as long as it was on a lark you buried that smug asari, I guess you’re forgiven. ...still can’t top your Dad at 5-Shot Speed Chess though, I bet.” The older man blew on his knuckles theatrically and gave them a wiggle before resuming his position at the worn speed clock.

Oh, you’re on.

“Oh, you’re on.”

Priya gave an apologetic smile at Shepard, who had taken up perch at the kitchen counter partition. The bar seat next to her was empty, waiting for Sam to return from her tense game. The matriarch of the Traynor family was busy at the stove stirring the simmering pot of kheer on one burner while checking a boiling sugary syrup on another. The warm kitchen filled with the scent of Indian spices and jasmine rice bled over into the prefab living room area.

“I wish I could lie and say something like ‘they aren’t usually like this,’ but…” Priya shrugged and smiled fondly at her husband as the game began. The speed clock snapped with each hit as the older and younger Traynor dove into an intense exchange of pieces. “It’s actually a tradition when Sammy comes home.” She paused before clarifying. “A tradition since Sammy was proper drinking age, mind you.”

Annelise smiled and raised an eyebrow. “Is that right?”

Sighing, Priya tapped away her Omni-tool where a reverse countdown timer could be seen by Shepard. “I think it was One-Shot Speed Chess back then,” she admitted. “I swear we were a classy family at some point. ...I can’t recall when, precisely, but I assumed we had to have bumbled into it somewhere in the last 25 years.”

“I’m 26, mum,” Sam reminded loudly as she slapped the clock once more.

“We were definitely classy when you were one, sprog,” Priya snarked back. “I mean, you weren’t because you just ate and shat all day, but Geoffrey and I were newlyweds and still extremely classy.”

“Muuuuuuum!” 

Oh my God do we have to talk about me shitting my diaper in front of Shepard???

Annelise failed to hide a staccato of exhale-laughs behind her wine glass, amused by the exchange.

Oh my God why did we come here?

...Oh shit Dad almost had me there.

Oh shit are they doing this on purpose? Working together against me??

Betrayed by my own flesh and blood!

Sam had to do a few lazy blinks to push back the swimming in her head and vision. Those shots were creeping in fast aided by a full stomach of naan and saag paneer. But she resumed focus on the game at hand, giving the clock another slap as she nudged her white bishop in an offensive position.

“So, Comm—Annelise,” Priya fumbled slightly. “What are your parents like?”

Mum. Did you not watch any ANN profiles? 

Shepard’s sip of wine was casual, unruffled by the question. “Couldn’t tell you. Both gone. Mom when I was four from eezo poisoning, Dad when I was thirteen. Fire in our apartment building.”

What could have been a very awkward silence was instead filled with Priya’s empathetic tongue cluck (honed from years of practice as a registered nurse). “You poor thing. Too much life experience forced onto someone so young.” Her vigorous stirring motion never wavered. “Not to mention the life of a marine on top of all that. What a hand this universe deals us, hm?”

“Indeed,” Annelise agreed. She smiled sadly, her eyes inward as though weighing something. “This reminds me of the dinners I had with my brother and dad.”

Oh? Samantha’s head tilted so she could hear better. Her father was closing in on one corner of the board, but her queen sprang into a hole in his defenses.

“Oh?” Priya asked, echoing Sam’s own curiosity.

Nodding, Annelise rotating the now empty wine glass in her hand. “Dad wasn’t much for cooking, but John loved it. He loved grilling and barbecue. He’d usually save some of his courier paycheck for a good cut of meat at the store and try out different seasonings.” She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply. “I bet he would have loved your cooking.”

“I fear I know the answer, but where is ...John?” At Shepard’s nod, Priya continued. “Where is John now?”

Oh no.

Should have given your folks some notes, Traynor.

I didn’t think it was my tale to tell!

How are you this bad at relationships, Traynor??

“Also gone, right before Dad. Car accident.” Annelise chewed her cheek a moment. “You know, before the Skyllian Blitz, I thought I was pretty unlucky based on all that.”

“And now?”

“Well, everything’s kind of a shit show, so jury’s out on that.” Annelise looked over at Sam, who was getting louder and more erratic with her clock taps. “But lucky in other ways.”

“Oh good answer, love!” Priya crowed, snapping the towel in Annelise’s direction. “A for effort, superbly charming response.” Her Omni-tool started beeping, signaling the woman to pull the pot of rice milk off the burner and set it aside to cool before turning her attention to the syrup. “What were three favorite things your brother cooked?”

An exhale deep through Shepard’s nose as she held her chin in her hand. “Oh God, I haven’t thought about that in ages.” She nodded at Priya’s silent pantomime offer to refill her wine glass. “He loved ribeye steak. Kind of fatty for me, and too damn expensive, but… I dunno, I liked it because he liked it so much.”

Aw. Sam felt a pang of longing for Shepard. There was a fondness to the woman’s tone that didn’t come up often. 

How often does Commander Bloody Shepard have a moment to think about her family? Or talk about them?

We should work on that, Traynor.

Geoffrey piped up regarding one of his favorite subjects. “Good man! Good cut of beef. What temperature?” He pointed a finger at Annelise as though calling on a student in one of his classes.

“Medium rare.”

“Good man indeed,” Geoffrey agreed as he slapped the timer one more time. White and black sides pieces were dwindling as lines of attack thinned out.

“Let’s see, what else… He actually did a spiced mutton I really liked. Sometimes lamb. Both were dirt cheap for awhile in Seattle before the drought, so he made a lot of it.” Annelise smiled as she accepted a small round poor of kheer, a sprinkling of ground nuts on top. “Oh, and his ribs were to die for. John had this dry rub mixture he spent months tinkering with. Took damn near eight hours to cook, but worth it.”

Geoffrey exchanged a look with his wife before cutting back to the game. Priya nodded.“Oh we love lamb in this house. One of the many reasons we applied for colony life. No more ration stamps from those artificial trade wars with the Volus, and all our farming sustainable and available direct to the colony first.” Priya fired up her Omni-tool. “I have a lot of great lamb recipes if you’re—goodness! I haven’t asked how your cooking chops fare?”

Nudging a pawn over to take Sam’s knight, Geoffrey jibed. “A loaded question, dear. We all know our Sammy is completely dependent on Alliance-provided cafeteria food. How she survived four years at Oxford is a complete mystery. She should have either ended up three hundred pounds from eating rubbish or died of scurvy.”

Hey!

“You talk a lot of shit, old man, for someone who just got checked. And it’s called a dormitory meal plan, I’ll have you know. I had three square meals.”

I just probably didn’t drink water the entire time. All booze or energy drinks.

“Of cafeteria food, further proving my point. Also, check.”

Ugh. Also, what?

That exhale-laugh from Annelise almost pulled Sam away from her last ditch strategy. The Commander extended her own Omni-tool. “I’d love the help. While I can survive on a remote moon with just a knife and a canteen, I don’t prefer to. I did undercover work for a year after graduating N7, so we had to learn how to be human again. Cooking included. Some of it even some fancy five course meals meant to impress targets.”

“So you know where all the forks go and what they do?” Samantha asked, slapping the timer. “Check.”

“I definitely do.” Those green eyes glittered with mirth.

“Oooh, be still my heart.” Sam shot a finger-gun at her girlfriend.

Priya made some flicking motions with her fingers before an answering ping from Shepard’s wrist. “Well, here are some of Sammy’s favorites. Someone should have them, since the pride of my life can’t make toast.” 

“Hey!”

“I also made note of some of the ones with Sammy’s allergies.”

Annelise flicked through the holo screen, studying the recipes. “Curry, shellfish, and peanuts, right?”

You forgot public speaking and losing at chess to my father.

Sam’s mother clutched her heart theatrically. “You know! Oh Geoffrey, did you hear? Sammy trusted her with shellfish, darling!” Priya poured a ladle full of the syrup over a small pyramid of large cake-like balls that had been chilling in a dish. She brought the dish over to the pair of competitors whose game was nearing completion.

“Check! And I did, love! It seems our Samantha is serious about this one! ...or her commanding officer looked at her file.” He grinned at his daughter before reaching for one of the gulab jamun.

Scowling, Sam slapped his hand away from the bowl before slapping the speed clock again. She could feel a heat rising in her neck and jaw (hopefully it was just the alcohol). “No dessert til we finish the game! And check!” 

After a tentative bite, Annelise dug into the bowl of sweet kheer with enthusiasm. “I mean, you’re not wrong, sir. But I had the decency to act surprised when she finally told me. How was that again, Samantha?” 

Oh sonabitch.

“When we went out on a date in public for the first time and I stole a bite of your lobster roll and my throat closed and we had to go to the med center.”

Both of her parents barked her name at the same time. “Samantha Karuna Traynor!” Her father added, “You always were a sucker for lobster despite never learning your lesson. And check.”

“It was worth it!” Sam squawked. “It was delicious! Also: check mate!” The pawn she’d been nudging forward that her father ignored got promoted to a rook and was now perfectly positioned to box in his king. 

Geoffrey stared at the change of fortune, dismayed and swaying a little in his chair. The shots were clearly taking hold. He tipped his king over in surrender, bowed his head at his daughter, and grabbed the topmost gulab jamun. 

Samantha joined him with a second ball, the syrup coating dripping slightly. They raised their desserts in salute before taking a big bite.

Mouth full, Sam grinned up at Shepard who was standing next to her chair. “I had you there to rescue me, darling. I knew I’d be all right.”

“I hope that’s always the case,” Annelise smiled back as she kissed Sam’s forehead. 

Before she slowly dropped down to one knee.

[kyvir]

They were best friends, denying for years what they both really wanted. When a little teasing turns serious, feelings are revealed. There's an accident, a long road of recovery and a love that only becomes stronger over time. To be together always, that's all either of them ever wanted. 

Continuation to A Walk in the Park (SasuSaku)

To Walk Alongside You (BoruSara)

Rating: M 

Warning: excessive cursing and eventual smut

Genre: Romance/ Friendship 

Chapter One: Problems

Next Chapter

“Damn it.” I hissed as I started my car after working on it all day and seeing that it was still smoking.

I’d checked all my bearings, and my valve covers, replaced a few parts and still this smoke was billowing out like I hadn’t fixed a single thing. With a frustrated sigh I laid down on my dolley and rolled under the car to get a better look. It was then that I found the real problem, oil was on every possible thing it could be on.

“Fuck.” I groaned. This would be near impossible to clean up and the oil itself wasn’t leaking… if my dad had been fucking with my car again, we were going to have words. My best bet was to take the car outside and let it run until all the oil burned off.

“Having issues?” I heard Sarada’s voice ask and I rolled from under the car to scowl up at her while she stared down at me mockingly. “I guess you’re not as good as you thought, huh?”

Scoffing, I got up to my feet and grabbed the rag under my hood to wipe my greased hands. “Nobody’s perfect, ya know? Give me a break.”

Damn woman. Just got here and already nagging me. I turned away from her, ignoring the short black skirt she was wearing and the thin red tank top as well. Her long hair was pulled into a messy bun atop her head, her red glasses framing her dark eyes. Even looking smug as hell, she was still undeniably beautiful and it bugged the hell out of me.

“I gave you a break by bringing you lunch after waiting forever at the park.” She huffed, dropping the bag of food she carried on the table and crossing her arms over her chest.

I sighed then, feeling guilty for not showing up. “Sorry Sarada… I gave my car hell yesterday and now it’s returning the favor. I’ve been fighting with it all damn day.”

“Well I could call dad, he’d know what was wrong with it.” She suggested. “Then you could eat lunch with me. Like you promised.”

My eyes narrowed on her then and I sat at the table, ripping open the bag. “Like hell you will call him to come here. I’ll eat with you and then get back to work.”

“Well, that will work too.” She smiled. “But I’ll really call him if you need him. Though you could always ask your dad too.”

“You know me better than that.” I grumbled as I pulled out our food and she sat next to me. “Your dad is a pain in my ass, all high and mighty. If I were to actually ask for his help I’d never hear the end of it… and dad… he’d annoy me to no end and he doesn’t even know how to change his own oil.”

Sarada gave me a sympathetic look. “You may have a point there.”

I definitely had a point. She knew how right I was. “How was work?” I asked, wanting to change the subject.

“Hard to say.” She sighed. “At times it’s challenging enough, but a lot of the other women there are idiots.”

Her words had me chuckling as I took a bite of my burger. “I can imagine. I deal with idiots all the time… but you know that. Have you got any time off this week? I have another race this Saturday… if I can get my car right.”

“As long as no one calls in, I should be able to make it. If you somehow manage to get your car up and running.” She teased, tilting her head.

“You will make it… and don’t worry about my car. I know what the hell I’m doing even if it takes me a little bit.”

Sarada pushed up her glasses. “We’ll see about that.”

Finishing the last of my burger, I quickly noted that Sarada hadn’t eaten even half of hers. “Not hungry?” I asked as I got up.

“I’ll get to it.” She huffed, blushing a little. “Not everyone eats as fast as you.”

“Well take your time then, slow ass. I’ll be working on my car.”

Her jaw dropped before she caught herself and closed it, narrowing her eyes. “Tch. At least I’m faster than you when I need to be somewhere.”

“Damn it, Sarada. Cut me some slack. I didn’t meet you one day and you act like I never show up.” I rolled my eyes and walked around my car. “Oh, by the way. You might want to hold your breath.” I smirked then as I started my car and smoke immediately starting billowing through the air.

Sarada didn’t listen in time and started coughing, her hands waving it away from her face. “Y-you *cough* jerk!”

I laughed as she yelled, driving slowly out of the garage. I parked the car a fair distance into the parking lot to let it run and then got out, jogging back inside and away from the smoke. Sarada was glaring at me now, obviously pissed. I slowed to a walk as I went back to her, leaning down so that our eyes were level.

“I almost forgot. You’re coming over for dinner tonight. Mom’s orders.”

“Ahuh.” She hummed and turned her head away. “What time?”

“Around six.”

She whipped her head around and raised an eyebrow. “Is that the time she’s expecting me or the time you’re going to show up?” She asked.

I shrugged. “She said she’d have dinner ready around six. I’m going to head home and shower before then though.”

Sarada shook her head, smirking. “I see. Why don’t you take a look at the time, hot shot?”

Fearful of her mocking tone, I dug my phone out of my pocket and my eyes widened when I saw it was already ten minutes to six. “Shit!” I screeched, my hand running through my hair. “Mom’s gonna have my ass for being late again! Come on, we’ll both take your car. I’m driving though.”

“Last time I checked, I had the keys-- so no.” She said and got up, making her way outside.

I ran after her quickly. “You know you drive like a grandma, hand me the keys!” I demanded, needing to get there sooner rather than later.

“And let my car end up like yours? I don’t think so.”  

As she made it to her car, I pushed myself against her, my body pressing hers firmly against her car. A devilish smirk pulled at my lips as her face turned beet red and I had her shocked enough to swipe the keys right out of her hand.

Leaning in, I moved my lips next to her ear and whispered, “I’m driving.”

She shivered and pushed me away, barely able to form a glare. “You’re driving me crazy is what you’re doing. Give those back.”

“Not a chance. You’re making us even later. Get in the passenger seat, or I’ll toss you in the back.” I promised, stepping back so she could walk around the car, or have me load her up… whichever she may prefer.

“I’d like to see you try.” She smirked. “I can handle myself just fine, Boruto. Don’t make me have to hurt you.”

“Like you could do anything in that short ass skirt you’re wearing.” I laughed loudly and ran at her, bending down to scoop her up over my shoulder before she could do anything. She squealed at the movement but I quickly opened the back door and carefully laid her inside before winking at her. “Be good now.” I told her before hurrying to close the door and hop in the driver’s seat.

“Why you-” She climbed over the seat into the front, sitting in the passenger side, though not before I got a face full of ass and those creamy long legs. “You’ll pay for that.” She hissed, putting on her seatbelt.

My neck and ears were burning at the sight fresh in my mind. Damn that woman and the way she made me feel. “Get over yourself.” I snapped, my mood soured just that quickly. She should have stayed in the backseat where I put her… or better yet, she should put some damn clothes on.

“Hypocrite.” She spat, arms crossed over her chest and eyes fixed out the window while I sped off.

“I can’t believe you let me be late for dinner and I still have to shower!” I groaned, my foot pressing more forcefully on the gas pedal. Thankfully, Sarada’s sports car would ride nice and smoothly even when going so quickly. I hit seventy-five and then she turned her cold eyes on me.

“Slow the fuck down before I punch you.” She demanded.

I slowed a bit, knowing she really was pissed for her to drop the F bomb. She never cursed unless she was really angry. “Fine, but you’re telling Mom it’s your fault that we’re late.”

“Oh I’ll tell her alright.” She said, voice dripping with sarcasm.

I glanced at her, brows raised. “I don’t like that tone, Sarada.”

“I don’t know what you’re referring to.”

This was not looking good for me. More than likely I was going to have my ass handed to me in one way or another. I sighed, deciding I’d just have to accept my fate, whatever it may be. However when I finally pulled into my parent’s driveway and saw Sarada’s dad’s car parked there, I cursed.

“I didn’t know dad would be here.” Sarada mused, completely calm.

“Neither did I.” I grumbled. Putting the car in park, I cut the engine and got out, leaving Sarada behind as I jogged to the front door. “Hurry up, slow ass!” I yelled back at her and scowled when I saw she was just getting out of the car.

“Don’t rush me!” She yelled back.

I growled but waited, opening the door when she finally came up the steps. I let her walk in first before coming in behind her and closing the door. Mom was a great cook and the whole house smelled delicious. I heard my dad and Sarada’s talking in the living room as we walked in. I dreaded facing them… because I knew they were both going to question me about my car. I tried to sneak past them, but Sarada snatched me along with her as she went to greet them.

“Hey, dad. Hi, Naruto.” She smiled evilly, making her tone extra sweet.

“Ahh, Sarada! Boruto, get your ass over here and tell me about the car.” Dad grinned at us and I cringed.

Sarada’s dad was glaring at me, his mouth in a flat line. “What did you do to it this time?”

“It was nothing… SHIT!” I snapped, realizing I left my car running back at the shop. Fucking hell. “Damn it. Dad, can I borrow your car?”

“What?” Dad’s face fell. “Dinner is ready and you haven’t even cleaned yourself up. You look like a grease monkey. Where the hell are you trying to go?”

I shifted my feet then, there was no way in hell I could admit to them that I forgot to cut my car off in my rush.

“What did you do?” Sarada’s dad repeated, sighing.

“It’s me.” Sarada interjected. “I left my purse at the shop. I told Boruto not to worry about it, but you know how he is. Sometimes he just can’t let things go.”

My eyes moved to Sarada, softening at the fact that she always looked out for me… even when I had her pissed. “It’s… important.” I said then, not knowing what the hell to do.

Sarada’s dad eyed the two of us skeptically before he spoke. “Hn.”

“I can go back and get it.” Sarada insisted. “Go wash up, grease monkey.”

My eyes held hers for a long time. “Are you sure? I think I should go with you.” She was offering to go… but did she even know why I needed to go back?

“I’m more than capable. I’ve got this.” She smiled. “I’ll even make sure to turn off the lights.”

My brows pulled together then. That damn woman… She knew the whole time! “Alright.” I muttered, turning quickly to head to my old room and have a shower. Sarada would certainly be the death of me one of these days. Always so damn distracting… always too smart for her own good and such a conniving little…

Just as I walked into my room my phone started ringing and I dug it out of my pocket to see it was her calling. I rolled my eyes as I answered. “You’re calling to nag me and you’re not even out of the yard?”

“Oh, I would never.” She giggled. “Remember this the next time you decide to throw me in the backseat.”

“Whatever.” I sighed. “I’m getting in the shower now… and um… thanks.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll always save your bacon, grease monkey.” She promised.

“I know.” I grinned then as I hung up and tossed my phone on my old bed and started stripping on my way into the bathroom.

By the time I showered and got dressed into some clean clothes and made it into the kitchen, Sarada was back. Everyone was at the table and mom didn’t look happy. I gave her an apologetic look before sitting in the open seat between Sarada and her little brother, Junior.

“Sup Junior?” I grinned at him, hoping if I started socializing Mom wouldn’t get on my case… yet.

“Hey.” He said, giving a small smirk in return. “You look like shit.” He teased.

“Hey!” His mom snapped, glaring at him. “Watch your mouth. Sasuke, you better set him straight before I do.” She growled-- and I thought my mom was scary.

His dad gave him a look and Junior bowed his head. “Hn. Sorry Mom.”

I had to force myself not to laugh, but it was coming out and I had to cover it with a pathetic cough. When I was kicked under the table I straightened and turned my head to my right to glare at Sarada. I leaned over closer to her then.

“Mind your own business.” I whispered, grinning before leaning back away from her.

“Boruto.” Mom called my name, sounding completely composed, but I was no fool. My face fell and I shut up for good as dinner was served.

We all started eating, most conversation being between our parents. Himawari wasn’t home. Mom explained to me that she was staying with a friend at the beach for a couple weeks. I was disappointed not to see my little sister… and that she’d left without telling me goodbye but I chatted lightly with Sarada and Junior as we ate. Once we finished the three of us ventured outside to get away from our parents.

“Why weren’t you at the shop today?” I asked Junior. He was usually there with me everyday, but I hadn’t heard from him.

“Levi wasn’t feeling too good.” He said, crossing his arms. “Old guy still thinks he’s a puppy, rolling around and whatnot.”

I smiled then, knowing how much the husky meant to both Junior and Sarada. “It sucks, ya know… getting old… I wish I could have gotten a puppy off him, but I don’t have the time a puppy deserves.”

“Yeah, Lou is a handful.” He said. “Little thing has way more energy than I can handle. She listens to Mom and Sarada though, the traitor.”

Sarada lightly shoved him. “That’s because Mom and I are her favorites.” She teased, smiling.

“She’s probably scared of your ass, and your mom.” I mused.

Junior bursted out laughing and gave me a highfive while Sarada glared and huffed, “Boys.”

“Damn… I need to get back to the shop tonight… Gotta burn that oil all the way off so I can drive it home. I’m not staying here.”

“Well whatever you do, you need to do it soon.” Junior warned. “Dad’s onto you, it’s only a matter of time before he stops by to see the damage you did to your car.”

“That bastard.” I hissed. “My car is just fine, just had a little leak. Sarada… can you…” I trailed off, feeling hesitant about asking for a ride. I didn’t want to push my luck.

She eyed me for a moment before speaking. “Alright, I’ll give you a lift. On one condition.”

“That being?” I asked a bit fearfully.

“I’m driving.”

“Oh hell… you know I don’t do well in the passenger seat… especially going under forty.”

“I guess you’ll have to find another way then.” She stated cold heartedly.

“Fine.” I sighed, moving closer to her purposely. “But you know you like when I drive better anyway.”

Sarada blushed and Junior gagged. “Gross.” He snarled.

“What?” Sarada and I both turned to him in question at the same time.

Junior just shook his head. “It’s sad how fucking clueless you two are. See you at home Sis, later Boruto.” He said and went back inside, casually waving over his shoulder.

“Little prick… what’s he on about anyway?”

Sarada pushed up her glasses. “Who knows, he gets like that sometimes. Mom says he gets it from Dad.”

I shrugged indifferently, but deep down I knew exactly what he was getting at. “Let’s get going. I know you have work in the morning.”

“Right.” She sighed. “Let’s go.”

We went back inside and I walked to my mom and gave her a kiss on the cheek and thanked her for dinner. I didn’t come over often enough these days, but I enjoyed it when I did. I told Sasuke and Sakura goodbye as well and then we were off. I dreaded letting Sarada drive, but it was her car and I wouldn’t kidnap her again today since she did get me out of a pickle earlier.

“Thanks for today, Sarada.” I said as we rode through the night. “I guess I got so much on my mind lately… I just can’t keep up with everything.”

“You’re welcome.” She said softly, smiling. “I can understand more than anyone, just don’t push yourself too hard.”

I smiled back then and got more comfortable. Knowing the way she drove, it would be another half hour before we made it back to the shop. “I won’t. And the same goes for you.”

“Is that right?” She laughed. “You know, Boruto, you can be really sweet when you want to be.”

“Oh yeah… I’m sweet as they come… only for you though.” I teased, grinning like the devil.

Sarada blushed for the third time that day, clearing her throat. “I-I see.” She managed to get out.

I chuckled as she drove along. I wanted to tease her more, but for some reason I couldn’t. I kept quiet and waited to get back to the shop. I’d have to run my car a little longer before driving it home and then I’d tune it up tomorrow. But no matter what, I’d definitely make it to the park.

When we finally arrived at the shop I got out and walked around as she rolled down her window. I leaned in and smiled at her. “Text me when you get home… even though it will probably be a whole damn hour. Slow ass.”

“Shut up.” She said, smiling back. “Don’t stay out here too late, go home and get some rest. Or else I’ll punch you.” She threatened.

“We both know you could never catch me.” I chuckled and reached my hand towards her, my index finger running under her chin. “Be careful.” I told her before standing straight and turning to walk away.

It wasn’t until I made it over to my car that she backed up and pulled away. I finally let my head turn back in enough time to see her tail lights disappearing. I got in my car and started it, hurrying away from it and into the shop so I wouldn’t have to smell the smoke. I got inside and went to sit at the table, pulling out my phone since I had nothing else to do. I’d give it a half an hour and then drive it home… by then, all the oil should have burned off.

I would listen to Sarada and get home early and rest. If I got my tune up done early in the morning, I would definitely be at the park on time and then I could pick up our lunch so she wouldn’t have to. I knew I owed her for today… but I would damn sure repay her.

[aspiring-translator]

Sooo… Coraline AU Pt.2…

Carrying on from the last post. Remember, it's not MY au that I'm getting inspiration from, I saw @parfaitperi 's art for this and I loved it.

Dinner time! Lance’s dad sings the “Twitchy witchy,” song for Lance as food is passed around the table.

Anything edible is snapped up immediately and everything else is their dad’s hard work at making delicious foods they like whilst their mother is sporting a broken neck. And the baby. And a job.

They appreciate his efforts.

Lance is less than impressed at his dad’s flan. Which is more of a puddle of egg, milk and sugar on his plate.

-

“Think they’re trying to poison me?” He nudges the doll’s head ‘yes,’ and goes to bed early.

-

The one thing he does appreciate about the new house is that he gets a room to himself!

He puts origami animals his sisters made him and the friendship bracelets his brothers made him on his dresser.

He hangs bunting and posters of his favourite baseball team, and keeps a photograph of his friends from the Garrison close to his pillow, on a Mantis photo-frame. (Sorry to demote Hunk and Pidge to such minor roles).

The picture was when they had visited him at Veradero beach in the summer, just before they moved. Pidge had written in the sand, in huge bulking letters, “We’ll miss you, Lancelot!” Hunk had gathered seashells as a border and the two stood soaking wet and grinning in the photo.

Lance touched their faces through the glass. Don’t forget about me, guys.

His blue lion plush layed limp and lifeless on his light blue bedspread. He even managed to plug in a starry night-light to brighten up the room… but it still feels cold and empty.

He prays that nothing comes out of the crack in the ceiling and makes a note to ask one of his siblings to move into his room.

The doll has been left on the chair beside his head and he turns towards it before he sleeps.

-

“Goodnight… little me…”

His peaceful rest is short-lived, however, when he hears a soft “t-t-t-t-t-t,” just underneath him.

Raising himself up from the pillow, he checks under his bed for any monsters or ghouls that may be disrupting him.

A mouse is, instead, what he is greeted with, and he gives chase to it downstairs and into the living room, because why not?

The mouse manages to escape Lance’s clutches through a crack in the door’s wall.

Lance slowly opens it and instead of finding a brick wall, he finds a whimsical, swirling tunnel leading towards a light.

He crawls through and pushed past the door into…

The same living room.

However, there are differences. The painting of a boy with white hair is no longer miserable, but he seems much happier, smiling.(Lotor).

Not only that, but there is a delicious smell in the air!

Lance follows it, and he hears a soft humming sound as he walks towards the kitchen.

Lance sees his mother, diligently cooking away, no neck brace to be seen.

-

“Mom? What are you doing here in the middle of the night?”

His 'mother’ turns to him, and he is face to face with emotionless, soulless black buttons in place of eyes.

-

“You’re just in time for supper, dear!”

“You’re not my mother. My mom doesn’t have b-b-buh-”

“B-b-b-buttons? Do you like them?” She taps one with a smooth black nail, leaving a crisp ringing in Lance’s ears. “I’m your other-mother, silly!”

"Other... Mother?"

"Yes! Now, go tell your other - father that supper's ready. He's in his study." She lifts a golden chicken out of the oven and hums a merry tune. When she sees that Lance hasn't moved, she chuckles slightly.

"Well, go on!"

Understandably, Lance is both terrified and confused. Whilst in shock, he somehow manages to make his way to where he knows his real father’s study would be.

He passes his brothers and sisters, all with black buttons for eyes. They mostly ignore him and head straight for dinner.

He enters his “father’s” study, and sees him hunched over a small piano.

Then he swings around to face Lance.

-

“Helloo Lancey Lance. Wanna hear my new song?”

His dad doesn’t even seem fazed at the dorky nickname only Lance uses... for himself.

The “Coraline Song” is sung, but instead the lyrics change to suit Lance. (I can’t think of good ones right now, give me a break!)

Dinner ensues and it’s as loud and homey and as delicious as Lance remembers it before they moved.

No worries about his mom’s neck or her job, or if they can afford the baby.

He doesn’t need to worry about a new school he’ll be going to.

He doesn’t need to worry about the prospect of his eldest sister leaving the home for university

Instead, he can just watch his twin brothers fight over a chicken drumstick and two of his three sisters talk about whatever they cared for.

Save for the... eyes of his family, he almost felt at ease.

-

“This is absolutely delicious!” Lance’s cheeks were practically bursting, filled with chicken, potatoes and even vegetables.

“Have you tried the flan yet?” Other mother stifled a giggle behind her smooth, porcelain hands and watched as Lance shook his head and attempted to swallow the food.

He managed, not without being slightly berated and told to, “Swallow, for goodness sake!” by his loving eldest sister.

“Well, here comes the Flan-Tran!” Lance sees the train of food weave between bowls and gravy-boats before reaching his seat, gently lowering a soft, creamy looking dessert in front of him. Of course he dug in!

“Anything else, dear?” Her voice was warm. If he just closed his eyes (or avoided hers entirely) Lance could pretend that this was his mother. But he couldn’t pretend that he had yet to see her take a piece of food for herself.

“I’m really thirsty…”

“Of course!” Within an instant, her fingers snapped and the beautiful crystal chandelier came down. “Any preferance?”

Lance was slightly stunned by the sudden freedom of choice, and the ease everyone seemed to feel with it. He saw his brother give himself a mango milkshake.

That was just… wrong.

“…lemonade?” Of course, his request was fulfilled, and the chandelier stopped spinning just in front of him. Tentatively, he poured himself a glass. With ice, of course.

Once Lance had finished drinking, his plate was replaced with a smooth, white cake, reading "welcome home!" in red lettering.

His family crowded around him and watched him stare at the cake in wonder.

At this point, Lance starts to freak out.

When his other-mother says that they’ve been waiting for him, he decides to nope the fuck out.

Other-mother stops him from saying anything and suggests a family game of hide and seek. Her hands begin to tap excitedly against the wooden table-top.

Outside, a crack of thunder and a flash of lightning fill the sky.

As much as he loves rain, Lance isn’t nearly as excited.

He tries to go home but he’s ushered upstairs to his bedroom. Or at least, a version of his bedroom.

The origami animals are alive and running around, his blue lion plushie roars and purrs when he brushes his hand against it and the room is painted and clean, with plants and stars hanging everywhere! (Imagine a room from @elentori-art 's Klance stuff)

The best part would have to be the fact that his pictures could speak and move!

-

“Pidge??! Hunk?!” Lance practically screamed at the photo frame.

“Damn Lance, you look even worse, if that’s possible. What, can you function less than usual when we’re not around?” Pidge laughs, cheekily kicks water at Hunk and Lance’s heart soars.

“God, I never thought I’d be happy to hear another insult from Pidgeon! You’re both gonna visit soon, right?”

“We’re already here with you, Lance.” Hunk’s eyes soften as he upturns a bucket of seawater onto Pidge’s head.

'Yup! We're with you in good ol’ Or-i-gene!“

Lance is then laid into bed, with both of his other - parents and all of his other-siblings gathered around him.

Before he lays down properly, his other mother spreads some soft, black mud over his poison oak. If he looked carefully, Lance thought he could see some gold or shiny substance in the mud.

Lance slept relatively soundly, after that.

Next morning, he wakes to the bleak and cold room he thought he had left behind. If only for a small moment.

However, one thing that definitely isn’t the same, would be the poison oak.

-

"It’s gone! My poison oak, it’s gone!”

-

Fun fun fun~

Pt.1 ~ Pt.3 ~ Pt.4 ~ Pt.5 (coming soon)

[baileysgrant-blog]

Plus One (Grayson + Ellie)

Written for my dear friend @graysonbdolans​! I hope you enjoy it!

You stared at your reflection through the mirror. Your hands were occupied by putting on your finishing touches for the night, which were your dangly earrings. When they were in place, you smiled at your reflection & let your hands fall to your sides. You scanned your body, taking in your new silk dress, your newly curled hair falling just over your shoulders, & soft blush on your cheeks when your eyes caught a glimpse of something behind you: Grayson.

You didn’t say a word as he crept into the restroom. You simply smiled at him through the mirror as he approached you from behind. With his eyes locked with yours, he wrapped his muscular arms around your waist & secured you in his tight yet gentle hold. You tilted your head slowly to one side as he leaned down to press his lips to the top of your shoulder. Your smile widened at the touch as you tilted your head back against him, allowing him to support all your weight in his muscular hold.

“You look absolutely stunning.” Grayson gently kissed your cheek directly after the compliment.

“Thank you. You look very handsome.” You smiled & turned around in his arms, wrapping your arms around his neck. You bit in the inside of your cheek as you stared at him, admiring his beauty. His hair was gelled back just the way you liked. The way he clenched his jaw never failed at making you melt from the inside out. He was truly the most beautiful human that you had ever laid your eyes on, & you were beyond grateful that you got to call him your boyfriend.

“Are you ready to go?” You asked, a little on the impatient side. It had been a while since the two of you had went out for dinner as a couple. Grayson always made sure to keep the romance going between the two of you no matter where you were, but the two of you always tried to plan a fancy dinner date every now & then.

“Yep. Just let me grab my wallet.” 

The two of you exited the bathroom. While Grayson went to retrieve his wallet from his bedroom, you approached Ethan, who was sitting on the couch in only his ball shorts. He was stuffing his face with popcorn while he watched tv. His feet were propped up on the coffee table. Normally, you would scold him & tell him to put his legs down, but that didn’t seem to be your concern at that moment.

You folded your arms across your chest & cleared your throat, getting his attention. 

“Are you not going out tonight? It’s Friday.” 

Ethan shook his head.

“Nah, I’m just gonna chill. It’s not like I don’t have any friends or anything.” He returned his attention to the tv & shoved his hand back into the bag of popcorn.

You noted his sarcasm & sighed. You stared at him for a moment, debating on what to do. You wanted to spend the night with your boyfriend, just the two of you, but you didn’t want to leave Ethan on the couch all alone. You knew how clingy Ethan was to Grayson, & vice versa, & you didn’t want him to think that you were stealing his brother away from him.

You looked up when Grayson came down the stairs, excitement written all over his face.

“Alright, let’s go.” He took your hand in his, but when he started to walk away & pull you along, you didn’t move. You gave him a certain look, & he already knew what you were going to suggest. Still, you said it anyway.

“We can’t just leave him here by himself.” You whispered. “Come on, look at him. He’s going to gain ten pounds by the time we get back. Either that or burn the apartment down trying to make pancakes.” 

Grayson pressed his lips together & looked at you, then stared at Ethan, then looked at you again. You could tell that he wasn’t fond of the idea, but after several moments of thought, he sighed & closed his eyes.

“Come on, E. Get ready. You’re coming with us.” Grayson’s voice sounded forced, but you knew that, in his heart, he didn’t want his brother spending the night by himself either. 

Ethan didn’t protest. He hopped off of the couch & headed upstairs to get ready. You smiled at Grayson & gave him a kiss on the cheek. 

“Thank you.” You said, grabbing your purse from the table.

Grayson rubbed the back of his head. 

“Ellie, you know I love him, but he’s just going to be loud & annoying tonight. You know that before he comes.”

You heard Ethan’s loud footsteps coming down the steps.

“Yeah, I know, but we wouldn’t have him any other way. If you get irritated, just try to ignore him, okay?”

“Ignore him? He’s going to be breaking everything in the most expensivve restaurant in the city.” Grayson sounded aggravated, but you just smirked & placed a hand on his shoulder. 

“It’ll be fine.” You whispered, turning to look at Ethan as he approached the two of you. 

“Alright boys, let’s go.” You led the way out of the apartment & to the car. You hopped in the passenger seat, Grayson drove, & Ethan was in the back. Ethan got distracted by playing a game on his phone, so Grayson reached over & placed his hand on your leg. You entwined your fingers with his own & smiled, enjoying the moment. 

That moment was short lived. Ethan poked his head between the two of you, almost too close for comfort.

“Turn on the radio. I need music.” 

You could tell by Grayson’s jaw clench that he was already getting annoyed. You turned on the radio & turned it up, hoping that it would distract Ethan, or at least drown him out. This was, of course, a horrible idea, because not only did Ethan start singing, but he made sure that everyone within a 10-mile radius could hear him. 

“Dude...” He whispered under his breath, shaking his head. 

You gave his hand a squeeze, hoping to soothe him. You knew how easily he snapped at Ethan, & you didn’t want the two of them arguing tonight, so you took it upon yourself to be in charge.

You rubbed the pad of your thumb in smooth circles on Grayson’s large hand, feeling him practically calm himself beneath your touch. In that moment, it was just the two of you, & the loud mouth in the back didn’t even exist.

When the three of you finally reached the restaurant, you got out of the car & entered through the double doors. Normally, fancy places like this weren’t your cup of tea. You preferred a pizza night with your boyfriend, but dressing up & spending a fortune every once in a while was no harm.

The host led the way to a booth in the corner. You slid in first, & Grayson slid in next to you, leaving Ethan to have a whole side by himself. You looked at Ethan & smiled, then looked at Grayson, who was clearly already annoyed. He rested his elbow on the table & placed his cheek in his calm. You patted his leg & got his attention & mouthed “behave” when he looked over at you.

After the waiter brought you your drinks, the three of you placed your order. After handing back the menus & thanking him, the three of you waited patiently for your food. You looked over at Grayson, who was acting like he didn’t want to be there. You scooted close to him & took his hand, placing it on your knee. You placed your hand over his & gave it a gentle squeeze.

“Soooo….” Ethan scooted to the edge of his seat & rested his arms on the table as broke the silence.

“Gray, mom called today. She said she’d send your o-i-n-t-m-e-n-t through the mail & have it rushed.” He didn’t even attempt to whisper it.

You tucked both lips in between your teeth to keep from laughing as you looked at Ethan. You looked over at Grayson, whose eyes were closed & nostrils were flared. You couldn’t tell whether his red face meant that he was embarrassed or furious. Probably a good mix of both.

“Thanks, E.” Grayson replied through gritted teeth.

You gave his hand a few pats, trying to calm him down. You knew that Grayson was already a little disappointed that you didn’t get to have the romantic night out that the two of you had planned, but you still wanted him to have fun with both of you.

“Ouch!” You yelped, after feeling a sharp pain in your foot.

“Sorry!” Ethan immediately said. “I didn’t mean to kick you, I’m sorry.”

You chuckled. “It’s oka-“

Before you could finish, Grayson interrupted.

“Just keep your feet on your side!” Grayson snapped, causing Ethan to go wide-eyed.

“Okaaaay, geez.” Ethan rolled his eyes & pulled out his phone, concentrating on that instead of arguing with his brother.

“Grayson, it’s okay. What’s wrong with you?” You whispered, feeling a little aggravated yourself, only not at Ethan.

Grayson just shook his head. “Nothing.”

As if it couldn’t have arrived at a better time, the waiter sat each of your plates in front of the three of you. After making sure that everything looked okay, he left you, Grayson, & Ethan to eat your food. You unraveled your fork & looked at Grayson from the corner of your eye, who was being silent. You could cut the tension with a knife.

You ate in silence for several minutes, hearing nothing but the sound of silverware hitting the plates. You then cleared your throat & spoke up.

“My meal’s very good. How is yours, Gray?” You stared at Grayson, waiting for his response.

“It’s good.” His answer was short & sweet. You turned to look at Ethan, who was devouring his.

“Ethan, how’s yours?”

“It’s really good.” He spoke with a full mouth, not bothering to cover it. Good thing you were already used to his ways. “I wish we had a decent cook in the apartment who could fix pancakes like this. No offense, Ellie.”

Grayson huffed angrily next to you, knowing that Ethan insulted his cooking on purpose. You rolled your eyes & went back to eating, trying to enjoy your meal.

You weren’t too worried about the boys, because they were siblings. They fight, they argue, but everything would be okay by the end of the night. You’ve been around the two of them long enough to know not to get involved & just let things die down.

Like always, you were the last to finish your food. You didn’t inhale it like the twins did. They already had half of their dessert eaten before you even started. Soon, though, you were finished too, & when the waiter brought the check over, you were relieved.

“Alright, Gray. You pay the bill & I’ll leave the tip.” Ethan shifted in his seat & dug for his wallet in the back pocket of his jeans.

“Why do I have to pay the bill? Why can’t you pay it & I leave the tip?” Grayson shot back.

Ethan stared at him, clearly growing more annoyed by the second. “We share a bank account. What does it freaking matter?”

You closed your eyes & rubbed your temples, just wanted to go back to the apartment. “If you guys don’t stop fighting, I’ll pay both.”

“Stop. You know I’d never let you do that.” Grayson’s voice was much softer with you.

After the bill was paid, Grayson reached for your hand & helped you out of the booth. You held his hand as the two of you, followed by Ethan, walked out the door. It had gotten much darker & cooler since you went inside, causing you to shiver. Grayson slid his hand out of yours & took off his jacket, placing it over your shoulders. You smiled up at him clung to his arm.

“Thank you.” You gave him a kiss on the cheek.

When you reached the car, the three of you got back into your original seats. Grayson began driving & you turned your attention toward the window, where you leaned against it & watched the street lights go by. You enjoyed this for a little while, but it was too quiet for comfort, so you decided to turn on the radio.

When you turned up the volume, you recognized the song immediately. You looked at Grayson, then turned around to look at Ethan, whose eyes lit up as soon as he heard it. You smiled, knowing that the two of them would be unable to resist singing along to Girls by The 1975. You nudged Grayson, a bright smile appearing on his face.

The remainder of the ride home was loud, full of bad singing, & an absolute blast. The radio seemed to play all the right songs, & the three of you had so much fun singing & dancing along. When you didn’t know the words to something, Ethan would bully you, but you still got a laugh out of that.

You were almost disappointed when you arrived at the apartment. You hated to leave the car, but since the night had lightened up tremendously, you figured that you had nothing else to worry about. Ethan walked ahead of the two of you, just as Grayson picked you up bridal style, causing you to squeal. Once all three of you were inside, you thought that Grayson would put you down, but he gave Ethan a nod & took you to his room.

He laid you down on his bed, as gently as possible, & sat down at your feet. He removed your high heels, which had now left behind bright red marks. He lifted your legs & placed your feet in his lap & began to give you a foot rub. You closed your eyes & smiled, enjoying the feeling of his large, skilled hands working on you.

“Sorry about earlier tonight, babe. I was just kind of upset that you & I didn’t get to have the romantic date like we had planned.” His voice was sincere.

Your eyes fluttered open to meet his. “And I’m sorry that I didn’t let your brother sit home alone & starve.” You smirked at him, who smiled at your sarcasm.

You sat up & scooted toward him until you were in his lap. You wrapped your arms around his neck & pressed your forehead to his, basking in the moment until you pressed your lips to his in a soft, passionate kiss. You smiled against his plump lips & shed his jacket that he had lent you, preparing to turn this into a heated make out session when suddenly, you heard the door open. You remained in place but turned your head toward Ethan, who was standing at the door with his mouth agape. He acted like he had never seen the two of you kiss before, even though you did it all the time.

Without hesitation, Grayson threw a pillow at him. Ethan shot his hands up in defense & quickly closed the door. You turned to Grayson & laughed with him as you heard Ethan run back downstairs.

“I love you, Ellie.” He said softly, with a sparkle in his eye.

“I love you, too, Grayson.”

Ethan was left minding his own business for the remainder of the night while the two of you had a romantic night after all.