#so cassie can live out my dreams

[pokeberry5]

~ summertime, and the living is easy ~

[sp1der-wid0w]

⛧°。 ⋆༺living dead girl༻⋆。 °⛧

﹒⌗﹒characters with a vampire s/o﹒౨ৎ˚₊‧

.⋆♱ 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐫’𝐬 𝐮𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐬. ✮: hobie brown, jennifer check, maddy perez, billy loomis, johnny cage

.⋆♱ 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫’𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞. ✮: saw my girl meg, and couldn’t get over miguel and damon soo.. enjoy these small drabbles of my baes meeting their vampire hottie 😘

ִֶָ. ..𓂃 ࣪ ִֶָ🦇་༘࿐

ﾟ ⋆ ﾟhobie brown ☂︎ ⋆ ﾟhe honestly is ok with the fact that you’re a vampire. he thinks that’s it hardcore and such an anachronist move. whenever you feel a bit thirsty and needs your patch of blood, he’ll simply web you down to the local streets of london, and let you have it at criminals and bad guys. of course, the sex is ten times more intense, with you wanting to bite him, but choosing not to. but he insists, telling you to let your inner rebel out, and let the fangs reign over him. you promised him that you’re the only man that you won’t bite or kill, and you also agreed with him that you want hurt any of his friends (miles, pav, peter b, miguel..) you’re so happy that you’re dating such a supercool and awesome spiderman, and he’s so against the rules. and he’s so happy that he’s dating such a hot ass vampire chick, that eats whoever she wants, and doesn’t care of what comes in her way. you two are such a perfect match <3.

ﾟ ⋆ ﾟjennifer check ☂︎ ⋆ ﾟjennifer thinks you’re hot. she thinks that she found her perfect match, with her being a succubus, and she wants you to and join her on her killing spree sometimes. it’s so fun seeing two girlfriends kill unsuspecting boys using their fangs and super strength. she’ll take you back to her place, whenever you both are done, and things escalate from there. even if you can do this, she’ll always try and protect you from any harm that comes your way. she already lost herself, she doesn’t want to love another thing that she loves in her life. arguments over who’s the better supernatural tend to happen, and it often ends with one of you sleeping on the couch, but she’s quick to make amends and ask for cuddles. you both go for midnight flys, chasing after each other in the clouds, and playing hide and seek. you also talk about your traumas on how you died, and then reassure each other that you’re loved and here for one another, and jennifer promises you that she’ll never leave you.

ﾟ ⋆ ﾟmaddy perez ☂︎ ⋆ ﾟmaddy is lowkey terrified of you, but she still tries to manage with you anyways. move over nate, you’re the person that’s worth defending from anybody. but you’re not letting her be your pushover, you vowed to protect maddy from any toxic ex boyfriends, back stabbing best friends, harsh and strict mothers, and just anyone that tries to do her the wrong way. even thought dating a vampire has its advantages, you two do get into arguments. she doesn’t want you coming to parties, because she’s scared that you might go after her friends, especially you trying to go after cassie or rue. and, she’s also afraid for your wellbeing if you get a hangover. she believe the whole vampire myth of sunlight, and tries to keep you away from any alcohol as possible. you also get mad her, telling her that she’s not your mom, and often leave her place in the middle of the night. but you came crawling back and beg for her forgiveness. she forgives you<3

ﾟ ⋆ ﾟbilly loomis ☂︎ ⋆ ﾟhe thinks you’re a dream come true. he was quick to believe the whole vampire myths about sunlight, garlic, and steaks and stuff. but you just tell him that you’re not dracula or from twilight, and tell him the realities of being a vampire. billy is so sweet with you, whenever you’re feeling hungry, he goes out as ghostface and lures them to you, basically bringing you a midnight snack <33 you both go out your way to make anyone deadmeat, if they try and talk bad about each of you. he tells stu about you, and stu is always making a vampire type of pun, even in front of people, almost blowing your cover. billy had to smack him a few times for that. billy’s blood kink with you, goes a thousand times higher up in bed. always telling you to dig your fangs deeper, so deep.. so deep that it’ll cause some blood. he knows you like blood. he’ll go out his way to gut anyone like a fish for you, just so you can have blood.

ﾟ ⋆ ﾟjohnny cage ☂︎ ⋆ ﾟjohnny cage lives in a world, where can throw hands with the ruler of the sun, and flirt with the beautiful yet equally terrifying nitara. if you not being a vampire isn’t any different, then he’s not sure what else is. he’s your golden retriever type of boyfriend, always wanting your attention, even when you’re out for a snack. you just deadass look at this man, trying to flex his muscles and wiggle his eyebrows at you, when your face is literally covered in an innocent person’s blood. he’s also being so affectionate with you, suffocating you with hugs and kisses, posting you on his social media the minute you breathe, and always talking about you to his friends. sure, he may be suffocating and annoying, but deep down you love your movie star boyfriend. but of course, you wear the pants in this relationship. the second he steps out of line, you bring the fangs and scary eyes out, and he backs up and apologizes immediately.

[onelineinthesand]

An Open Letter to Neil Gaiman in the wake of the Allegations

Mr. Gaiman,

There's a likely chance you will never see this, so this is as much for my fellow heartbroken fans and for myself as it is for you. Many of us feel the need to process this in the spaces we share--the spaces where we so often shared our love and admiration for your work: for the worlds you created that we have shared, enjoyed, and explored together. My name is Cassie. I'm a teacher. I too am a storyteller, a wordsmith, a lover of knowledge. I teach mythology, history, and ancient languages--subjects which I saw woven into your writings. It is my joy and privilege to share these subjects and my passion for them with young minds, just as it has been yours to share your love and passion through your mastery and craftsmanship with words and the research you wove into the words you built.

Why do I point out these similarities? Because while we are not the same, we share a great responsibility. I inspire young minds, and in turn, there are times when I see the admiration in my students' faces. Some of them look up to me. They see me as a source of knowledge, wisdom (though god knows I don't have much), and stability. They rely on me to create a space where their curiosity and enthusiasm can flourish. I see the way some of my students light up when they see me, how they love to share their discoveries with me, and sometimes they gift me with their precious trust.

It would be easy for me to lead those students where I wanted. The ones who look at me with trust and excitement in their eyes when I affirm them-- the ones who see me as someone to admire, someone whose praise they want to earn. Because they are young and impressionable--yes. But also, because I have been gifted this role in their lives. Some of them would be excited if I invited them to a personal dinner at my house. Some of them would see that as a reward to be desired, would be eager to go on a drive alone with me.

And yet, I suspect you know that it would be wrong for me to give my students special alone time or special gifts. That it would tarnish the safety of my relationship with that young person. That it would open them up to exploitation at my (or another teacher's) hands. Even if I mean well, it teaches that young mind that special alone time is okay, and that they can accept it safely. A young person who is taught that such attention is safe, who receives that attention--that one on one praise and affirmation--may cast aside their doubts or worries and chase after it, craving the promise of being unique, of being chosen by someone they trust and admire.

It is my job to teach them that safe adults--safe authorities--will never offer or ask for that, will never put them in a situation where they have no other safe adult or authority in their confidence regarding their relationship with you. That they must steer clear of the promise of "special" attention from an authority like that.

You, Mr. Gaiman, are the man against whom I warn my students.

You were given a precious gift. You were able to bless countless young minds with the experience of a fantasy world, of mesmerizing stories that inspired their imagination, made them laugh and cry and dream. Young people admired and idolized you, and when they came to you at fan events or crossed paths with you, they saw you-- just as my students see me--as someone whose praise and attention was to be desired.

You took that trust, and you used it to your advantage. You saw a young soul that looked at you with admiration of a student, of someone who wants to learn from you. You used that innocence, that ignorance, to take pleasure for yourself at their expense. There was a power dynamic between you and your fans: young women who wanted to be close to a person they admired--who believed you to be wiser, smarter, more gifted than themselves. You did not honor it. You did not treasure it. You used it. And you used it again and again and again.

Mr. Gaiman, I believe your victims. But please understand. Even had you not ignored their "no"-- even had you not gone to physical extremes that caused them harm and trauma, even had you only engaged in what were (according to the law) permissible sexual relationships -- in my eyes, you would still be reprehensible.

I am a teacher. It is my job to protect these young minds. If my students ever ask about or speak about you, in my classroom and in my school as far as I am concerned, you will be nothing more than a cautionary tale. You will be the example of a man (or woman) whom I must teach them to regard with suspicion. You committed an act which I consider most disturbing for a person of my profession. You used the precious, beautiful trust of a young mind to your own gain.

I hope that your public reputation is so damaged that no other young woman will venture into your snares again. But if someone does, please read my words.

When you see that starstruck look in a young person's eyes, see the joy and admiration, remember this: She sees you with the eyes of a child; the youthful excitement of meeting someone who is, in her mind, greater than her.

Nurture and protect that young mind. Model how a true leader responds to trust. Be the sort of man who deserves that admiration. Remember that the look in her eyes is its own reward. Be sure that she knows there are no secrets between you, that she is never alone with you, and remember-- when someone admires you that way, no matter whether she is of legal age, she will always be as a child before you.

As someone who fosters young minds, I am profoundly disappointed in you.

You do not deserve a second chance. But if you ever get one, do better.

Sincerely, A former childlike admirer of your works

[perpetualprocrastinationisme]

Is Ty in Denial Over Livvy?

Artist: Charlie Bowater

I think it's worth noting that what Ty is currently experiencing re: Livvy is not grief but denial. - Cassie Answering Asks on Tumblr

I think this really points to what one of the biggest points of tension in the TWP series is going to be: the denial that Ty might be in over Livvy. This is how Cassie answered a question about why Kit left without saying goodbye to the Blackthorns in QOAAD. But is Ty really in denial? That's what I'm trying to ascertain by analyzing the passages below.

PS. If you do find a ghost, treat it kindly. I don’t think all ghosts mind being ghosts, as long as people are nice to them.

So this is how Ty ended a letter to Emma and Julian in SOBH. I feel like this shows us that to Ty, the real reason that someone may not like being a ghost is that they're ignored and not treated well. So the answer to the issue with Livvy is just to treat her the best he possibly can, to always be there for her. (Also, just to say this, Ty is one of the most sincerely kind characters in the whole TSC universe if you really examine scenes that include him. So, I also just think this quote stems from who Ty is at heart). But is simply treating Livvy well enough? Does that meet her needs? We see Livvy's perspective in GOTSM here:

There was so little to feel. For months now she had been less than a shadow at Ty's heels. Oh, why couldn't Livvy do the same? Why was she the only one who could not return and take up her life again?

While I do think that being kind to ghosts like Livvy or Rupert is important, the primary injustice here is that Livvy gets to be almost human, just without the parts that make life most worth living. Here we see that she continuously feels this sense of unfairness, why does everybody else get to live their lives except for her? Why is there so little for her to feel?

Here's another of Ty's perspectives on Livvy's resurrection:

She said a lot of reassuring things. But it still gave me a cold feeling, which I think is my body telling my brain that I’m afraid. If Julian and Emma found out about Livvy, they wouldn’t just be angry. They’d feel like they had to do something, like lay her to rest. People don’t think ghosts can be happy, but Livvy is happy. She helps me with work and she tells me advice for Anush (he has a crush on Rayan’s sister Nasha) and when we’re alone we play games or I read to her. She can’t do everything but why would being all the way dead be better? Everyone calls it “rest” but no one really knows, do they?

I feel like with Ty we consistently see this idea that Livvy being a ghost is better than nothing. In QOAAD when Kit tells him that he doesn't think Livvy would want to be resurrected Ty tells him that he doesn't think Livvy would want to be dead either. To me, this isn't rooted in Ty selfishly wanting Livvy back. On the contrary, I feel like Ty sees it this way because Livvy has always been there for him, making life better. So, for Ty, what if this is his way of making Livvy's life better? After all, wouldn't being a ghost that can still see be on Earth be better than the nothingness of death? Here's another of Livvy's perspectives to compare it to:

The sun was rising, and she tried to feel its warmth - something other than its brightness. To warm herself. What she would have given to feel that wet velvet crust of the top layer of sand under her feet, to feel the cold grittiness of the sand underneath change in temperature as the warmth of her human feet soaked away. To scream herself hoarse, knowing that no one would hear over the roar of the surf. She squatted and tried with ever particle of herself to pick up a piece of beach glass. But it was a useless endeavor. She had no more effect on the world than a fragment of dream.

I believe this scene really showcases one of the two worst parts about Livvy becoming a ghost: her ability to take action. When looking at Livvy's character in the first two books it is evident that she wants to take care of people and be able to have an effect on people. In Lord of Shadows we see her say this:

"I realized something," she said. "I want to be like you, Jules. Not this second, not right now, but someday. I want to take care of people, other Shadowhunters, people who need me. I want to run an Institute."

And I do realize that Livvy can still help people and have a powerful effect on the world as a ghost, I mean she's already found useful information about the Cohort and TWP isn't even here yet. She's just not able to help people in the way I think she feels called to do. Livvy very much seems like a hands-on, people's person. As a ghost she can't be that. She can't run an Institute, she can't even pick things up. You can very much see that she feels useless in GOTSM. But I think we see the thing she struggles with the most in these excerpts:

You can see ghosts but you cannot see me. Not when I come to sit by you while you sleep. Not when I am in the movements of the shadows across the lawn, or the twitch of a curtain. You cannot hear me, even though I am speaking to you because I have things I need to tell you.

It was wonderful to see how settled in Helen and Aline were, but it was also all extremely unfair, Livvy felt. Everyone else got to come home. Mark. Helen. Even Ty would come home someday. But she would never truly be home again.

Family is the most important thing to all of the Blackthorns, it seems like they base almost all of their actions around each other. I think what tortures Livvy is being able to see this family she loves so much but never being able to interact with them again except for Ty. Never getting to be a big and little sister. It's a vital part of Livvy's life that she has lost for the time being.

I want to say this though, I think it may be easy to look at all of these scenes and immediately say that Ty is in denial about Livvy's true situation and feelings, but I don't think that is true. Look at this scene:

Ty said, "I'm so sorry, Livvy." "For what?" she said. "For doing this to you," he said.

I think Ty realizes what all Livvy is missing, for the most part. I think it also really hurts him. He just feels that what she does have is better than what she could have in death.

All of these scenes also beg this question, would Livvy feel like this if she figures out the ins and outs of being a ghost or if she could show herself to her entire family? Like, when she actually sees the power she has for good in her current state as a ghost? I ask because of this scene:

"Oh, Ty," she said. "I would have done it for you. It isn't a thing that should be done, but I would have done it anyway. And so we would be in just the same mess we're in now. Besides, I think I'm getting the hand of this ghost thing."

Conclusion: I feel like Ty may have been in denial in the beginning but I don't think he is anymore. I also think that Livvy will have an easier time as a ghost as things progress in TWP. I also feel like Livvy has the potential to be a huge force for good, a protector, in TWP and I sincerely hope that happens. However, I do think this will be a major point of tension between Ty and other characters in TWP, especially Kit. I feel that many of them, especially the older Blackthorn siblings, will want to help Livvy be released into the afterlife instead of staying as a ghost. I think the finale of the entire series will reveal the fate of Livvy: whether she can stay as a ghost, has to be released into the afterlife, or gets to come back fully human.

Edit: By not being in denial, I mean that I think Ty understands that he did wrong and regrets resurrecting Livvy. The issue is that he doesn’t regret it enough to talk to Magnus or one of his siblings to try to either release Livvy or bring her back fully. To figure out the best way forward with Livvy, is what I guess I’m trying to say. And also, while I think Livvy could be a force for good and could acclimate to being a ghost, I also think there’s just as good a chance that she could go into one of her more volatile states. This would lead to some really awful stuff happening and could even be the crux of Ty and Kit’s plot in TWP.

Also, sorry for the ridiculously long post, it felt kind of like a really poorly written essay. I hope it was coherent and that you enjoyed it though :) Here's some beautiful Kit and Ty art for the road.

Artist: @camisala01-art

[eatmangoesnekkid]

Cassie: Friend, Soulmate, and Self-Regenerating Muse

One of the ongoing themes of my multi-book series is The Muse: the consciousness, archetype, and ways of moving and being of the Muse, who is the Muse and why this energetic matrix is important for every femme to embody for her aliveness and manifestation potential. I made a major edit in this chapter after randomly meeting someone one warm day in Amsterdam recently. The chapter now opens with a story about her.

Cassie is her name and she is stunning. I don’t know what it is about Amsterdam but I rarely—meaning—never —meet people I feel a deep soul kinship with. To be fair, I spend more time biking in Amsterdam instead of walking because the weather is often trashy. But walking is my favorite exercise and I tend to walk a whole lot more in other cities when I’m traveling because, hello, beautiful weather. But on this warm beautiful Sunday in Amsterdam, I joyfully walked everywhere. That’s how I met Cassie, an Indonesian and Surinamese (Black) 38 year old Goddess as she was lightheartedly and confidently sashaying down the street in her short denim dress with peak-a-boo air holes cut out on the sides which illuminated her waist.

She was alone with no cell phone or bag, casually strollin' to her own rhythms while licking a vanilla ice cream cone and delighting in her own innocence and pleasure after walking through the city for hours I would later find out. That is so me—walking for hours in a city and getting lost without a cell phone on me. It was like seeing myself and one of my favorite Minnie Riperton album covers come to life in full-size, "Perfect Angel," the one where she is holding a dripping ice cream cone while smiling so sweetly. Suddenly Cassie made a u-turn and sat on the bench directly across from me. I knew I had to say something to her.

The first thing I said was “you must tell me what you do to have that kind of body.” She responded “you must tell what YOU do to have that kind of body.” She reminded me of me so much—it was dreamy and surreal as watching a Maya Deren “black and white” film yet it was as real as human flesh and a beating heart. You know what her answer was?! “I don’t workout my body. I just workout my mindset and emotional body.” I responded with all manners of celebration “you magical neuroscience quantum theory Gawddddd.” We both laughed! We ended up talking for 4 whole hours— nerding out on everything from quantum physics and metaphysics to speaking about our dreams, love, farm life, and why high-quality, non-extractive penetration (when mutual love and reverence are present regardless of the 'relationship status' between the two) is essential for the healthy shape of a woman’s body and to liberate the deeper coiled wisdom living in her female tissues that no male guru in India could ever possibly understand or teach. It felt like Cassie and I had only been sitting there for only 30 minutes. She was my muse and I was hers. We went on a real journey together.

To open yourself up to The Muse and allow this regenerative consciousness to be your lighthouse in the world requires devotion and a kind of playful endurance and resiliency where you begin to hold a quality of self-worth that does not allow you to give up before the miracles start to happen in your life. Being able to follow a dream -your heart's desires and big visions, capable of trusting the process of what is being divinely asked of you to do and not give up, truly embodying the mindset of a divine being, yield a greater energy of pure power. And what I know about energy is that everything is sourced from it, even though it appears physical to our eyes.

Of course, if you desire to work through the physical/3D world/matter, those things you can logically track and measure, you can. But the truth is that you access more infinite power to shift your body and whole life when you begin to tune into E-N-E-R-G-Y, the subtle, immaterial, and invisible, the spirit that lies beneath the surface, like blessing your food and directing it to travel to the parts of your body you’d like for it to energize or nourish, to make more shapely or healthy. Also, getting into energy work and metaphysics, the essences of your chi, makes you prettier like a beauty ritual, more naturally attractive, magnetic, and wiser. I can’t wait to finalize this chapter and share a snippet here. Yum!—India Ame’ye

[strangesthirdeye]

Under the root of Yggdrasil (Loki x fem! Reader)

Summary: Sometimes being able to see your loved ones from afar is good enough.

Warning: It's Loki who doesn't like him. Medium angst, Loki s2 ep 6 spoilers? Norse Mythology, acceptance, Loki needs a hug,

As usual, I'm sorry if there are any wrong sentences or typos or grammatical mistakes, please forgive me and again English is not my first language, so I try to improve my language and writing in this way.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

Staring at the one spot makes all the views in the corners of your eyes blur as you only focus on one spot. Your mind is somewhere else while your fingers unconsciously fidget on Loki's broken tempad. It's been a few weeks since the temporal loom event.

Since Loki sacrificed himself to save the entire timeline even universe. He's not dead but his absence is enough to make one. The way he smiled in sadness and willingly to be a pillar of the tree of life and also the way he said 'I love you' for the last time to you made you enough to shed tears.

All the events are back to normal and like nothing happened, yet you feel empty without Loki's presence. Mobius? He is retired. B-15? she's also thinking of retiring. O. B? busy with everything. And you don't want to bother Casey as he seems quite busy too.

While Sylvie, she has returned to her universe and that was the last time you saw her. She is still in the phase of accepting the truth after witnessing Loki's action.

How about you? It is very difficult to accept the fact that Loki is no longer with you. But still, you have to keep moving and living as normal. Which is quite difficult because you are both attached hip to hip to each other. Never lost from each other. Always found one another.

But ever since the Temporal Loom problem everything changed as Loki suddenly or willingly saved the Timelines by 'sacrifice' himself. you? You just let out an anguished loud shout to tell Loki to stop. But, Loki ignores it hoping you all are safe.

It was very difficult at first after a few days after the whole TVA problem. After Loki became the main pillar of the tree. Everything reminds you of him.

Not once, but many times. You yourself can't ignore that feeling but the next thing you know you're staring at nothingness with your cheeks wet with tears. You miss him and worry about him at the same time. Which makes you wonder in your mind. What is he doing now? Is he lonely? is he okay? All those questions running around your head which make you more sad and worried.

You always think about his well-being. You wonder if he can see you now from the Yggdrasil tree. Seeing yourself who cannot accept the fact that he is 'gone'. After all those things you both went through. Is this the ending you both got? Away from each other. Lost a loved one? is that the ending you both get? Funny.

Sometimes, if you are too worried about him or miss him, you will go to TVA and to the place where the Yggdrasil tree is shown behind the glass of the room where you, Loki, Sylvie, Mobius, Victor, O. B and Cassie were before.

Staring at the tree for a long time as you make sure that he is not alone although you can't see him. The green glowing tree really reminds you of him. And you hope he is fine there. Sometimes, O. B will come to check up on some technology in the room and notice you in front of the glass mirror standing stiffly with your eyes looking at the tree. He gives you a sympathetic look even if you don't look at him but he knows you just want to make sure Loki is okay.

'You look sad, when you think he can't see you'. Ever heard? yup, that's what you've been going through all along. Thanks Molly Hooper.

But what you don't know is that Loki actually has the same feelings as you. Missing, worried and sad. He missed you, He worried about you and He was sad that he couldn't be with you.

But, he can't do anything. His duty is what he has to do to make sure all Timelines are under control.

He missed your touch, he missed your voice and he missed your smiles. And he can only see you from afar. And that was enough for him.

[k-s-morgan]

hi katrin i am such a huge fan of your meta analyses on hannibal. i was wondering if you ever had any thoughts of what would happen during s4 and if you ever had plans of writing your own post-fall story. i feel like you would absolutely crush it!!

Hi! Thank you, I'm so glad you found my metas useful!

I'm so satisfied with S3 ending and with the stories of other writers that I never felt an itch to write my own version of S4. Largely because I genuinely think Hannibal and Will have overcome the worst of their obstacles in the show, and now they only have a way up. In my fics, I prefer to tackle the biggest conflicts and drama myself, so I don't have a story interesting enough to tell.

I have a list with the post-canon recs here if you're interested, though they are pretty old at this point.

As for my thoughts on S4, I have two versions, one that I think is logical and one that Bryan might have created.

For the former, I imagine Will and Hannibal learning how to live together, and Will slowly figuring out the extent and specifics of his darkness.

Will consists of unpredictability, and Hannibal is fascinated by it. I think Will is going to kill when an impulse strikes. For example, he might go shopping, without having any dark plans, and end up murdering someone because the circumstances pushed some unfortunate soul onto his path. Will might or might not display the body depending on his mood. Today he can be in an artistic mood, but tomorrow he’ll be in a violent and impatient one, wanting to destroy the body entirely and leaving a total mess behind.

Will might prefer to kill “bad people” in the first two seasons, but it’s the process of murder that excites him. So I see his righteous choices as a preference that helps him justify his dark nature partly, not the core reason for his violence. Hannibal seems to be moved by his interest in human nature and his hunter instinct, but Will, I think, is a truer killer because he actually feels drunk on murder. Unlike Hannibal, he looks downright euphoric when/after he kills Randall and Francis. In TWOTL, Hannibal is more focused on the fact that his dream came true and he and Will killed someone together, but Will seems primarily caught up in the murder after-shocks themselves. Hannibal thinks about Will, Will thinks about how beautiful blood looks under the moonlight.

So, I believe that at first, Will will stick to killing bad people like murderers, but once some times passes, his need for justifications will fade. He’ll move on to rude people, only his rude will differ from Hannibal’s. Hannibal doesn’t differentiate between genders and ages, but I think Will will. He’s interested in a feeling of power, like he himself says, in a sense of dominance, so he’ll look forward to a fight. He won’t be interested in attacking a teenager like Cassie, for instance, because the power imbalance is too prominent. But as soon as someone more equal does something Will heavily dislikes, something that wakes his bloodlust (a personal insult, physical or verbal abuse toward other people/animals, etc.), he’ll attack. He’ll be careful - he knows how to avoid being caught, but it will still be unpredictable and passionate. Will is a storm to Hannibal’s calm.

As for Bryan's version, he said a great variety of things about what S4 could be about over the years, to the point where it's nearly impossible to form one coherent picture. Here is my attempt on it.

Will is going to feel drunk on his newfound darkness and freedom. He was repressed for so long that now that he Became, he’ll be losing his focus and drowning in his own preferences, forgetting what they were and turning into a much more vicious monster any of us expected. He’ll be chasing the high he felt from killing Francis and failing to find it. He’ll be surrounded by blood, his past victims (hence the return of everyone dead, like Bryan mentioned), and more madness. A part of him will want to impress Hannibal, to prove that he’s a worthy partner (which is supported by Will seeking Hannibal’s approval throughout the show - the way he glances at him after biting Cordell is a good example; the way he has low self-esteem and knows Bedelia failed Hannibal’s expectations). So he’ll be acting more and more violently.

Hannibal will see that Will is losing himself in a new way. He won’t want to start a physical relationship with him (which Bryan mentioned) because he’ll be afraid that it isn't for the right reasons, that Will is too far gone to made decisions. So, he’ll feel like the best therapy would be to push Will even more and make him realize that he’s approaching their new life from the wrong angle, to make him figure out that this isn't the kind of killer he wants to be. To do this, Hannibal’s manipulation will entail them going after Alana and Margot.

Will won’t be fond of the idea but Hannibal will manipulate him into accepting it, intending it as a test that will finally make Will snap out of his state. So Will will initially help hunt them down but then he’ll realize this isn’t what he wants to do. Hence finally getting his mind back and being happy in S5.

[ms-wwe]

CHAPTER 2 (Pt. 2) DAMIAN PRIEST X OC (RIGHTEOUS DESIRES: LOVE AND REDEMPTION IN THE RING)

“I know you were very reluctant to do this” She begins. “And I am so thankful that you chose to trust me to do this. As I’ve told you over the phone, hearing a small portion of your story was so compelling, and I feel that you deserve the chance to tell your truth in its entirety. With that being said, please do not hesitate to decline to comment, or to completely end the interview. I can only imagine how difficult this may be for you, and I want you to know it’s totally fine to stop and revisit, that’s why I allotted at least 3 interview days to meet in case you needed time to process or to just give your emotions a break” She tells me in her warm tone. Truth be told, I was thankful for the reassurance. I knew I trusted her, and that she wouldn’t pry for information I may not be ready to share. “ I really appreciate that” I say as I look down at my mug, trying to hold back the tears I feel swelling in my eyes. “I’m going to start my recorder now, are you ready?” She asks while holding the small recorder in her left hand. I sigh and nod in response. This was it, this was happening, and there wasn’t a damn thing I could do about it. “Where do you want me to start?” I ask her. “Let’s start from the beginning” I pull my right leg into my small chair, hugging my knee close to my torso, hoping it’ll bring me back down to earth and make my heart stop attempting to escape my chest. “I started in the WWE when I was sixteen” I say flatly. Cassie shakes her head with a small giggle. “No honey, I mean the very beginning. Start with your childhood. I want to go back to the very start of you, I want to know every facet there is of you. I want to know about Riot, not just Riot Hardy the wrestler, but Riot the woman.” She says in a reassuring tone. I close my eyes and take in a slow breath. I could do this, I owed it to myself to do this. I just needed to think of this as a casual conversation with someone. “My name is Riot Hardy, I’m a Virgo, my middle name is Elizabeth, I drink mass amounts of caffeine, I recently moved Orlando to be with my boyfriend Luis, Or Damian Priest if you know him by his ring name, we’ve been together officially since April of this year, I just turned thirty-four, my birthday is the day before my dad’s, and I’m not gonna lie, I miss living in small town North Carolina” I spill out like I’m gasping for air. Cassie is writing down notes as she speaks. “Tell me a little bit about your dads, I’m interested to know more about what the dynamic was like growing up” I smile as I think of my dads and what the early years of my life were like, how it felt being a small girl raised by three men, sometimes I felt it was a miracle I didn’t turn out to be gay. “We had an interesting dynamic in this house for sure” I say with a smile. “My dad had me when he was only sixteen. My mother wasn’t in the picture ever. She was significantly older when she was fooling around with my dad, she already had two other children that she’d given up for adoption, why she chose to give me to my dad, I have no idea, but I’m thankful everyday. In my really early years my grandfather took on more of the fatherly role around here. My dads were already chasing their wrestling dreams hard and heavy even back then, so my grandfather did his best to help my dad manage being a father and achieving his goals.” I continue as I sip my coffee. “Your grandfather sounds like a wonderful man. Was your grandmother involved? You’re quite close with your uncle, what was it like with him growing up?” She asks as she scribbles more notes down on the pages of her notebook. “My grandfather was the most selfless person you’d ever meet. He passed a few years ago and I don’t think I’ve fully recovered from that” I trail off as the heartache of my grandfather being gone sets in all over again.

[cassiefromhell]

Fluff nothing explicit between eris, lucien, and gn reader maybe hugs and cuddles in bed with both of them?

I hope you had a happy new year!

After Work

Lucien x Reader x Eris

wc: 1.2k, just a baby oneshot

warnings: in true cassie fashion, i made it a little depressing at first lol. slightly depressing thoughts, COMFORT, it gets better i promise.

a/n: and i'm back!! recs are open, next part of BAF is underway!

It’s been a long, long day.

You sigh, stepping in through the door and tossing your bag on a chair, running a hand over your face. You hang up your coat, numbly going through your typical post-work routine; take off the heels that have been hurting you all day, let your hair down from its suffocating bun, and sit down at the dining room table.

And for the second time this month and the billionth time these past two years, you drop a pink slip onto the tablecloth.

You whimper, letting your head fall to rest against the splendid tablecloth, probably another god damn Autumn Court bajillion dollar heirloom.

“Love?” Lucien’s familiar voice calls out from across your chambers in the palace, his footsteps approaching. His scent of cinnamon and fire floods your nose, followed by a sigh. “Oh, no. Not again.”

Lucien comes to stand by your side, and you don’t even lift your head, too busy wallowing in your failure. He lifts the pink slip, then sets it on fire. 

“I’m sorry, my love,” he murmurs, kneeling beside you. He rubs your back, pressing his face to your shoulder. “They’re idiots. All of them. We’ll tell Eris and he’ll—”

“Can we not? Tell Eris?” You interrupt, peering over at him. “I hate the face he makes when he finds out. Just this once. I’ll tell him when I secure a new job, I promise.”

This wasn’t the first time you were fired from a job, and you were sure it wasn’t the last. You never used to have problems holding a job — in fact, you were a star employee at your work in Velaris, and before that you had been living nothing short of a dream life with your dream job in the Winter Court. You loved what you did, and everyone loved you.

That was, until two years ago, when you had met Eris and Lucien and immediately discovered that they were your mates — your loves, your fated future and family. And you loved them. You did, and you still do… but there are side effects to being the mate of the High Lord of Autumn and his bastard brother that you had never even thought about.

Eris was not well liked in other courts, and since the news about Lucien being Helion’s scandalous son came out… well, it was a reputation that followed them everywhere.

In Autumn? Everything was hunky dory.

But in every other court, particularly the courts that offered your dream jobs? They scowled and batted away the two Vanserras.

Autumn was amazing in every way, but the open positions weren’t for you, and every time you found a job you really liked in another court? You lasted two weeks, maybe three until someone found out and ratted on you. The call into your boss’s office and the pink slip came not long after.

So, here you were, wallowing, and asking your mate to keep a secret.

Lucien sighs, tucking a piece of hair behind your ear. “I’m not sure that’s a good idea, my love. He’ll find out eventually, and until then it’ll just be weighing on you.”

You frown, looking back to the tablecloth. “I just— I don’t want him, or you for that matter, to be worried about it. It’s my concern, and mine only.” You sniffle.

“That, my sweet, is not how mates work. Your concern is mine and Eris’s. Our concerns are yours. We’re a team. Come on,” he stands, sweeping you up out of the chair and into his arms. With a flick of his wrist, the kettle starts. “We’ll have some tea in bed. You can cry, or talk about it, or just lay there. But I will not have you wallowing on your own.”

You feel the exact moment that he told Eris through the bond, via the sudden change in emotions coming down the golden string that attached you to Eris. He goes from completely neutral to angry, and then suddenly sad. Sad for you. Sad because you weren’t fucking good enough to—

You start crying before you even get to bed, and Lucien just holds you tighter, stroking your hair. He lays down, pulling the covers over the both of you and laying you across his chest. 

“I know, I know,” he whispers, kissing the top of your head as your tears wet his shirt. “I’m here. It’ll be okay, I promise. Let’s get you sitting up and sipping some tea, okay? I think you’re dehydrated.”

A few moments later, his arm is around your waist and you’re sipping at a steaming cup of tea, curled up in his lap. He’s still stroking your hair, murmuring sweet nothings.

The door opens slowly, and Eris pokes his head in, still wearing his fancy royal clothing and crown. It took him much longer to get here than it usually does, but he’s here anyway.

“Hi,” Eris says softly, walking over and sitting on the bed in front of you. He reaches out and strokes your cheek, wiping away a few tears. “Again, huh?”

You sniffle and nod, holding your tea a little tighter. Lucien looks a little concerned for the health of the teacup in your hands. 

Eris tosses his crown aside and crawls over to be sitting beside you. Lucien reluctantly lets him pull you into his own lap as you sip at your tea once more — which has now gone cold.

“I have something for you. Do you want it now, or later?” Eris kisses your temple, then down your cheek, stopping with a little peck on the side of your mouth. “Hmm?”

The last thing you want is some new piece of jewelry to remind you that your mates are a million times better than you are, but you shrug anyway. “Now, I suppose,” you answer with a  hoarse voice, clearing your throat. 

Eris reaches into his pocket, and covers your eyes. “Hold out your hands.”

You do so, and then there’s a jingle, the smell of metal, and something falls into your hands. Your eyes are uncovered, and you find… a key ring in your hand, with two brass keys.

You blink, and then blink again. “What?”

Lucien grins softly, taking your chin between his thumb and forefinger and tilting your head up to look at him. He must be in on this. “They’re the keys to your business, of course. On Maple street, a few blocks away from the palace. The building you’ve always said is pretty. It’s yours.”

Your eyes are watering again, but for an entirely different reason. “What… no— no, you didn’t.”

“We did,” Eris says, running a hand through your hair. “If you want a building in a different court, we can always—“

“No,” you bite your lip, fighting a grin. “It’s perfect. It’s so, so perfect. But— it must have been expensive—”

“Don’t wanna hear it,” Lucien shakes his head. 

You wrap your arms around Lucien’s neck, kissing him, and then do the same for Eris, speaking the whole time; “Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!” You squeal, practically vibrating with excitement.

“You wanna go see—”

You’re up and out of bed before Lucien even finishes his sentence, running towards the door.

“Shoes! And a coat!” Eris calls after you. 

Of course you had forgotten those things. Because you were too excited.

You were ready for your fresh start, mates by your side.

[gretahayes]

more core four repair shop au thoughts;

the fixing shop gives very much cosy small candy shop vibes despite it being like...two stories tall and a mix of a woodworking station, a metalworking station, a forge, a car mechanic, a tech store, a tailor store, a toy store, a library (tim and bart like to read and go through reading material fast, so they figured they may as well), and a sort of bakery.

(it's only a bakery when kon keeps everyone else out of the kitchen (yes they have a kitchen, keep up) for long enough to bake successfully. if he succeeds, you get whatever new recipe he tried out that day, or the old reliables. the old reliables come out when he's having a busy or rough day and wants something low-effort and comforting.)

(also, he doesn't sell what he bakes. he gives them out. unless you've got three hours to argue over paying, you're getting it for free.)

it's got a big winding staircase leading up to the second storey and just like a hole. smackdab in the middle of the store, so they can lean over the railing and yell to each other

it's also much bigger on the inside than the outside. how? magic. (when the core four says this, locals laugh and take it as a joke. it is not a joke. they now owe zatanna a favor)

new branches are constantly being added, and new stuff. one day they picked up crocheting and suddenly there was crocheted stuff for sale. anita popped by and for a few days, second hand kid toys/clothes were offered.

it's not a cafe but they've got a good coffee machine, a lot of mugs, the Good Coffee™, and all know how to make good drinks. if you've got a few bucks to spare, it's heavenly.

tim fixes cameras sometimes :) he's had a lot of cameras through his lifetime and marvels at antiques, well-loved cameras, and newer models all the same.

cassie fixes weapons! cosplayers and people who just have weapons on hand come to the shop, drop it off, and a day/week later their weapon is fixed.

if you come when cissie's visiting, she'll help you with your bow.

traya visits with flowers and is a very chatty and helpful salesperson for the day until she's got to go back home. she also refuses to "sell" stuff without collecting any money.

bart knows how to do almost everything so he does a lot of the work, but it keeps him busy and there's a lot of different stuff to be fixed so he never gets bored.

when asked by the titans or the jla members they're related to/mentor them how it's going, they usually only tell the hero stuff, which is wild because Small Town Nonsense, so the justice league is like oh my God???? are you guys okay over there?? are you sure you don't need help??

they're like no we're living our peaceful cottagecore dream literally fuck off??

justice league: you got dismembered yesterday??

core four: the demon was just a scared kid, plus they gave us our limbs back, it's literally fine.

justice league: we don't think-

core four: we're about plant a garden. fuck off.

the titans at least visit Sometimes (dick, donna and wally obviously, but they won't object to a visit from kori or vic or gar) so they know the core four are happy and mostly vibing so they don't have many protests.

sometimes they've got baby heroes their shop, jai and irey poking around, damian petting their emotional support dog (her name is buddy. she is not a trained emotional support dog but she is very good at listening. she's part golden retriever and part princess of hell. don't ask.), assorted speedsters and arrowfam teens coming and going.

their town (and shop because they've got an alien, a speedster, and a demigod. it's a cauldron of magic) is sort of at the point where the dimensional barrier is sort of...thin? so sometimes they've got other versions of baby heroes in their shop, just chilling until they can get them back home.

on one notable occasion, they've had a teen mar'i, a toddler jackson hyde, a pre-teen cerdian and robbie, and a six-year-old chris kent all at the same time. that's the most like parents they've ever felt.

tim knew they'd all end up crashing in one bed so he just bought like...an alaskan king size bed in one room then regular beds in the others. he was not going to lie to himself.

[lowkeyerror]

Can you write something for Cassie x f reader. Like the reader is the daughter of maddy's boss and they meet when Cassie goes with maddy babysit her younger brother or something like that (Nate and Cassie don't have sex here)

Dream

Cassie Howard x Reader

Word Count: 1k

Notes: I think it's fluffy. Also hi... soft launching my return

You knew of Cassie Howard, her name was synonymous with gossip in the hallways. You also knew quite a bit about her, as she was best friends with your little brother's babysitter.

There were times when Maddy had brought Cassie over to help with your brother, but you were always out, hence the need for a babysitter.

However, tonight you decided to call it an early night. Once you entered the house, you heard chatter in the living room and followed the sounds.

" Oh, what's up, Y/n," Maddy greets you.

" Hey Maddy," you were speaking to the Latina, but your eyes kept drifting to the blonde.

" Y/n this is my friend, Cassie. Cassie…"

" And she's the hot sister, right," Cassie tilted her head to the side a little as she took in your appearance.

" Just Y/n is alright."

There's a small silence among the group. Maddy is the first to clear her throat," Well, your brother is asleep. We'll probably be staying the night if that's good with you?"

" If you have mom's blessing, you've got mine. I'm going to go shower and then probably knock out, y'all have a goodnight."

True to your word you showered and then got into your bed. You weren't sure if you were sleeping anytime soon. Music played through your headphones as you mindlessly tapped on the phone screen.

Once you were certain you weren't falling asleep anytime soon, you reluctantly got out of your bed. You decided that the thing you needed to fall asleep was a glass of water.

So you went to exit your room and when you did you found yourself bumping into Cassie. It wasn't a graceful bumping into either, you almost knocked the poor girl down. If it weren't for your hands locking around her waist, she would've totally hit the floor.

" Sorry, I wasn't expecting you to be right there," you said, steadying the girl in your arms.

She looked up at you with her lip tucked between her teeth," I don't mind being in this position with you at all."

"You shouldn't say things like that to me. I'll start to think you mean them," you stated, releasing your grip on the girl's waist.

" Who said I didn't mean it?"

You lightly backed the blonde against the nearest wall. You leaned over her, your arm rested slightly above her head.

" I don't do hookups. You know why?"

She shook her head.

Your free hand gently tilts her chin, so her eyes look directly into yours," Because I'm not fond of sharing. So if you want to be with me, it has to be only me, you understand?"

" I understand," her gaze centered on your lips.

" When you're ready for that, if you ever are, I'll be around."

You leave her there against the wall as you make your way to the stairs.

" What if I'm ready now?"

You chuckled, to yourself more than to her," I don't think you are."

Once you get to the kitchen, Maddy cornered you," So you and Cassie?"

You continued getting the glass for your water," Me and Cassie, what?"

Maddy scoffed," You know exactly what I mean, Y/nn. I saw the way you were looking at her."

" I look at a lot of things, Maddy," you filled your glass with a few ice cubes.

" All I'm saying is give her a chance," Maddy pressed on.

You poured water into the glass with a sigh," Since you're so nosey, I'll tell you this. I told Cassie what I'm about and if she decides that I'm what she wants, we'll see what happens."

" I'm telling you right now, she wants you."

You rolled your eyes," Wanting to fuck me and wanting to be with me are two totally different things."

" She can want both of those things. They aren't mutually exclusive," Maddy pressed further.

" Goodnight, Maddy," you smiled at her, leaving the kitchen.

Once you got back to your room, you were met with a blonde in your bed. She was wearing one of your sleep shirts, it looked a little big on her. Her hair was in a loosely tied ponytail.

You set your glass of water down and stared at the girl," Why are you in my bed?"

" Because we are going to get to know each other better," she tugged your arm, pulling you into the bed.

Your head landed in her lap, she ran her hands through your hair, dulling your senses.

" Cassie-"

" What do you dream about?"

You laughed a little at her question," Really?"

Cassie laughed too," Yes, really. We've got to break through this tension, and icebreakers are the best way to do that."

" I don't really dream that much, I can hardly ever remember when I do. I sleep like a log."

" I literally dream every night," Cassie revealed.

" Well, what do you dream about then?"

That's how you ended up getting to know Cassie better. You talked all night until you fell asleep. Her hand in your hair coaxed you into slumber as the two of you spoke about anything you could think of.

Cassie often seemed one dimensional on the surface, but the truth was she had tremendous depth. She was more than just some hot blonde bimbo.

She was funny, smart, and kind-hearted. If you hadn't felt something before, you definitely did now.

That night, you had a dream. It depicted a future with you and Cassie; A house with a white picket fence, two kids (a boy and a girl), and a big golden dog. It made you smile in your sleep, you'd remember it in the morning.

[awhitehead17]

Totally (not) handling it

Core Four, Friendship, Kon being an idiot, Fainting, Hurt/Comfort, Fluff.

Summary: While trying to prove his worth to Clark, Kon almost works himself into an early grave as he looks after Metropolis. Thankfully his friends step in before it’s too late and put a stop to his lack of self-care.

A/N: This is done for the 'Fainting' square on my Bad Things Happen Bingo Card.

Also on A03

Enjoy! :D

He’s a liability. A fact which took him longer than it should have to admit it. The endless hours of pushing himself, using his powers constantly without respite, lack of sleep, and not eating enough is all finally catching up to him and therefore leaving him exhausted and on the brink of collapse.

Kon knows he should ask for help. He knows handling it all on his own is next to impossible, but he wants to prove to Clark that he can handle it. He’s been doing alright so far! Although it comes at the price of pushing himself way past his limits.

Clark’s been off world on a mission and asked Kon to look after Metropolis in his absence. Understanding this is a major ask, a test of trustworthiness and more, Kon resolutely agreed and swore he’d do everything in his power to keep the city safe and running like Superman always does.

It’s been a long seven days and he’s still got three more to go before Clark returns. There have been many times over the week when Kon’s picked up his phone to call his team for back up but only to hesitate before pressing the call button. He never called them. Kon has this idea in his mind of wanting to solely be able to look after the city to prove his worthiness.

Having just returned to his apartment from helping out the city’s water company with an exploded pipe downtown, Kon collapses onto his couch and lets out a long and tired sigh. He’s aching all over and is fed up with everything. Thankfully that latest call wasn’t the worst thing he’s had to deal with, he shouldn’t complain really because at least it wasn't a cat stuck in a tree situation, that’s just old and cliché and shit Kon couldn’t be bothered to deal with anymore.

Tipping his head back against the couch cushion he closes his eyes and feels his body starting to relax. God, what he wouldn’t give to get a solid five hours of sleep right now. He says five because eight is too hopeful and the most he’s gotten in the last seven days consecutively is three. So five hours would be a luxury.

He doesn’t even get five minutes.

Groaning in frustration Kon swipes at his face and wills himself not to cry. When will he get a break? What’s disturbed him this time isn’t a cry for help but rather someone knocking at his apartment front door.

“Kon. It’s me. Open up!” A voice calls out and a pounding on the door follows. Kon frowns into the space of his living room. Why is Tim here? He never called him. Did he? Kon glances around for his phone in hopes to get an answer for that question but is unable to find it in immediate proximity. Oh well, that’s probably for the best. The last thing he needs is his phone blowing up with notifications on the city’s next catastrophe that needs his attention.

“Kon!”

The pounding on the door continues and Kon finally gets his ass into gear to go answer it. Apparently he takes too long because by the time he’s made it to the hall Tim is there opening up the door himself with a key in his hand. If it was surprising to hear Tim on the other side of the door, Kon was furthermore surprised when Cassie and Bart make an appearance just behind the boy wonder.

Kon had either fallen asleep and is dreaming or he's really seeing his friends in front of him and not understanding why they’re there. He wipes at his eyes to clear his vision from the grey that seems to be forming and blinks stupidly at his friends not saying anything. Maybe he did call them after all and just can’t remember, it’s been an exhausting week.

“Are we allowed to come in? Ma Kent would be so disappointed with your lack of manners Kon!” Cassie laughs but there’s a tightness to her tone as if the humour is being forced.

Kon shakes his head, although a wave of vertigo hits him and causes him to stumble, he grabs hold of the open door to steady himself. At his stumble his friends surge forward to help him but stop short once he's steady. Ignoring what happened Kon swings an arm towards the inside of the apartment, “come in.” Just because he wasn’t expecting his friends doesn’t mean he’ll turn them away.

The three of them all give him the side eye as they pass through and make themselves at home in his living room. As Kon turns to shut the door he’s hit with a second wave of vertigo and forces himself to breathe through it until it passes. Once it does he turns back to his friends and asks the million dollar question.

“So what are you guys doing here? Not that I’m not happy to see you of course.”

Apparently it’s the wrong question because his friends stop what they’re doing and stare at him and Kon tries to not squirm under the intense scrutiny.

“Kon it’s the twentieth, we’re going to the hockey game tomorrow remember? We arranged to come and stay with you months ago.” Cassie explains putting her hands on her hips looking worried.

Frowning, Kon rubs his eyes again as the grey re-appears, and tries to focus on his friends. He has vague recollection of them organising it. However, “that can’t be right, it’s not the twentieth yet.”

“Yeah it is bud. What’s going on?” Bart speaks up looking concerned and Kon hates how apparently he’s the one that’s put that expression on his face. “If you’ve lost track of time, that’s easily done, but it would explain why you haven’t answered our calls and messages.”

That reminds Kon of his missing phone and he absentmindedly pats his pockets. As he tries to remember what he did with it, a sudden bout of nausea hits and has Kon controlling his breathing yet again until it passes.

Wait... what was he doing again?

“Conner?”

Frowning Kon looks up and is surprised to see his friends in his apartment. “What’re you guys doin’ here?”

When his friends don’t say anything and simply stare at him, it takes Kon a moment to remember that he had just let them into his apartment. What was wrong with him? He breathes deeply and rubs his eyes yet again when the grey reappears in his vision, the nausea comes back too leaving Kon like he’s about to throw up any second. Something isn’t right.

“I don’t feel good,” Kon mumbles under his breath. The grey turns to black and the last thing Kon can recall is the distant shout of his name.

Waking up with a splitting headache is never fun. The pounding going on inside his skull makes him reluctant to open his eyes knowing how irritable the light is going to be and that’s saying a lot considering he usually thrives off sunlight.

“Kon? You with us?”

The voice calls out to him, and feeling like he’s got the worst hangover ever Kon begrudgingly opens his eyes, squinting to try and see through the predictably irritating sunlight. “Huh?”

“Oh good you’re awake. We were getting worried.”

Kon forces himself to wake up further, trying to clear the fog from his brain. His head feels like a bull is charging through it while his body feels like he’s gone several rounds against Solomon Grundy and lost. He sits up and finally sees his friends gathered around him on the sofa. Bart’s looking at him with a frown, Cassie is clearly angry and Tim has his whole stoic expression going on which means he's livid.

“What happened?” Kon asks trying to wrap his head around what’s going on. In front of him, Bart flickers in place and suddenly he’s handing him pain killers and a glass of water. Accepting them, despite usual painkillers not working for him and downing the water, Kon tries to recall what happened for his friends to be like this.

Bart thankfully takes pity on him and explains, “dude, you fainted. Not cool.”

Kon blinks and thinks back. Oh shit.

“Why didn’t you tell us it gotten that bad Kon? You know we’re only a call away. I thought you had more sense than this.” Cassie says with a forced calm to her tone, clearly trying to not blow up at him. He appreciates it, his head won’t be able to handle any shouting matches right now.

With his mind finally catching up, Kon sighs and fiddles with the rim of the glass not looking at anyone. “I was handling it. It’s all fine, I only have a few days left then he’s back and everything can go back to normal.”

“That doesn’t excuse you from working yourself into an early grave Kon…” Tim snaps disapprovingly. Kon does look up then and sends his best friend a glare.

“Fuck off Tim. You’re one to talk.”

Tim looks affronted by his comment and opens his mouth to obviously retort back but Bart slashes his hand between them and cuts in before he could say anything. “No. Absolutely not. We’re not having this pissing contest right now. This is what we’re going to do,” he pauses looking between everyone before speaking again in a no nonsense tone. “Tim, go help Kon wash up and changed into some comfy clothes. Cassie please coordinate cover for Kon over Metropolis for the next 24 hours or so, whether that’s us taking shifts or some of the other Titans, it doesn't matter. Do not argue Kon. I’m going to set up for a movie night and run down the street to grab us food.”

Before Kon could protest, Bart’s gone in a blink of an eye, Cassie has her phone against her ear dialling whoever, and Tim has grasped his arm and is helping him off the sofa leading him towards the bathroom.

“I’m not a child. I don’t need babysitting.” Kon grumbles, although he leans on Tim for support as he’s still feeling weak and shaky which he won’t admit too.

Once they get into the bathroom Tim deposits Kon down on the toilet and backs up looking at him with a frown in place and his hands on his hips. Kon suddenly feels guilty, like he’s disappointed a parent for being naughty.

Sighing deeply Kon shakes his head and starts trying to strip out of his clothing. “C’mon man, don’t look at me like that.” He huffs when his shirt gets caught around his neck.

“You deserve the look and you know it.” Tim retorts. He snorts at Kon’s predicament before helping come free of the fabric. “Why didn’t call me Kon? You know I would’ve helped out. Any of us would have if you just messaged! You didn’t have to work yourself to exhaustion.”

Once the t-shirt is off Kon works on stripping his trousers off while Tim turns away and puts the shower on. “We all know what it’s like trying to live up to their expectations. No matter how long it’s been or what we’ve already achieved. I know for a fact you sometimes still feel like you need to prove yourself to Bruce and push yourself. This is the same.” Kon pauses before narrowing his eyes at his best friend as he plays with the edge of his boxers. “I also don’t need you in here with me as I shower.”

It certainly wouldn’t be the first time they’ve showered together, but believe it or not Kon still has some dignity left. He also doesn’t need a babysitter.

“I’ll turn my back.” Tim comments moving to stand to the side facing the wall as he promised. He doesn’t say anything else on the matter and Kon certainly isn’t going to bring it up. Rolling his eyes, and then having to grab the sink to steady himself thanks to some vertigo, he stands up and removes his boxers before entering the shower.

The two of them are quiet as Kon washes off and he has to admit he feels much better being clean. Tiredness still pulls at him but he’s feeling more human now than before.

He gets out, dries off and pulls on the clean clothes Tim hands him before the two of them make their way back into the living room. Sure enough Bart’s gone the extra mile and has turned Kon’s living room into a slumber party den. Blankets and pillows cover the sofas, snacks and bottles of soft drinks line the coffee table, the curtains have been drawn and a dim lamp is on giving the room a warm glow and finally Netflix is up loaded on his TV awaiting for a film to be chosen.

Tim herds Kon to the couch and then proceeds to wrap a blanket around him until he’s resembling a burrito. It’s as Tim is settling down on the couch next to him Cassie appears and flops into the love seat adjacent to them.

“Shifts and cover have been arranged for the next couple days.” She announces, sinking into the chair with a sigh. She looks over at him with a critical stare. “You’re not allowed to help for the minimum of two days. What were you thinking Kon! You’re not a novice at this anymore, you should have called us before things got this bad.”

Feeling like a child being scolded, for a second time, Kon scowls. He opens his mouth to snap back but Tim jumps in before he could defend himself. “Cassie.” He shoots her a warning look. “Trust me when I say he deserves the scolding, but let’s leave it for when he isn’t about to keel over.”

Cassie huffs but otherwise quietens down. Kon knows he’s been let off the hook for now but is definitely in for a hard time in the near future.

Bart soon speeds in and stops in front of the TV with the remote in hand and is already browsing through the movies on offer looking for something to watch. With input from everyone and ten minutes later, they manage to find something they agree on and quickly settle down to watch it.

As the film plays Kon feels himself dropping off to sleep. The jerk of his head as it drops keeps him awake and fighting to keep his eyes open. He’s just so tried. A hand grabbing his shoulder jerks him into awareness and he blinks at Tim who is looking at him pointedly, he doesn’t need to be the world’s second greatest detective to tell Kon is close from being beaten by The Sandman. The hand on Kon’s shoulder starts tugging and still wrapped up like a burrito, Kon is helpless but to obey Tim’s command and is moved until he’s lying across the sofa with his head on Tim’s lap.

Surrounded by his best friends who are all safe and currently uninjured, the comfort and warmth from the blanket mixed with the exhaustion and knowing he’ll soon be getting a lecture about self-care, Kon falls asleep easily.

[bluejaysandblackbats]

Hair Trigger

Fandom: DC Comics, Batfam, Superfam, YJ98

Summary: A junior at Gotham University, Jason finds it difficult to conceal his worsening mental health from his family and his friend, Jon Lane Kent. Family secrets are revealed and boundaries are pushed as Jason and Laney struggle to navigate through school, their romantic feelings, and their trauma. Could the reintroduction of Laney Kent be more trouble than it's worth, or is it just what Jason needed to confront the demons of his past?

I will also do trigger warnings for chapters and if there is smut I have the chapter(s) tagged so you don't have to worry about nsfw in the fic if you're just here for the story itself.

Chapters: 9/?

Characters: Jason Todd, Jonathan Lane Kent, Bruce Wayne, Clark Kent, Lois Lane, Cassandra Cain, Tim Drake, Conner Kent, Natalia Knight, Jonathan Samuel Kent, Cassie Sandsmark, Chris Kent, Bart Allen, Original Character(s)

Relationships: JayLaney, Clois, TimKon

Additional Tags: University AU, No Powers AU, Sharing A Bed, Romance, Angst

Chapter Nine: Connect

Laney woke up from his nap after having a nightmare, and he pulled the mask off in a panic. "Hey, hey," Conner whispered as he grabbed Laney's wrist. "Relax. What happened earlier? Are you still fucked up about Christmas or something?" Conner asked.

Laney looked around the room and gestured for Conner to be quiet. "You said you wouldn't tell anyone—."

"And I haven't, because I'm not a jerk... But you're not really that good at hiding how you feel about things. Why don't you just tell him?" Conner asked.

Laney sighed. "Because it's not that easy... We've only hung out twice since his dad let go of his grudge against me," Laney whispered.

"Text him," Conner replied.

"See, this is what I meant when I told Dad you get on my nerves—."

Conner chuckled. "Because I'm being honest with you?" he asked.

"No, because you act like everything's so easy," Laney replied.

"It is easy. You're just making it difficult," Conner sighed.

Laney rolled his eyes. "You can be such a know-it-all sometimes. Look at me. I'm Conner. I'm a social butterfly and one of the most likable people in all of Metropolis and Gotham—."

"Shut up," Conner laughed, "And not everyone likes me. You don't like me—."

"I do like you. You just irritate me. Mainly because you have my face and some of my interests, but you're exponentially better than me at literally everything," Laney replied.

"You can't possibly be jealous of me... Laney, you're my older brother. I look up to you, as much as I hate to admit, I do," Conner replied.

Laney pinched the bridge of his nose and took a deep breath. "Please say you're joking because it's gonna make me look like an asshole if you're being serious," Laney mumbled.

"You are an asshole," Conner laughed. Laney smiled. "Can I still borrow your ID, though?"

Laney chuckled and grabbed his wallet from the table to hand Conner his ID, still holding onto it. "Wait, please don't get something ridiculous tattooed on yourself."

"I'm getting twin snakes like in that one dream I had," Conner replied. Laney smiled.

"That sounds cool, actually," Laney admitted, "Where's Dad?"

"Feeding your cat. When did you get a cat?" Conner asked.

"Right before Sylvia moved in—."

"Sylvia? Does Mom know you're living with a girl?" Conner interrupted.

"Sylvia's younger than you, and she has a girlfriend. I don't think Mom will mind... Oh, and I'm gay dingus," Laney punched Conner's shoulder.

"Oh, yeah," Conner laughed as he rubbed his shoulder, "Hey, lookit." He nudged Laney and pointed to Jason, who stood outside the glass door with an unsure smile on his face. "Talk to him, and I'll keep Dad busy."

Before Laney could say anything, Conner let Jason in and left the two of them alone. "You look good," Jason whispered.

"I look like shit," Laney laughed. Jason grinned and nodded.

"Yeah, you look fucked up," Jason snickered. Laney pushed his hair back, and his features softened as he stared at Jason. "Why do you want to talk about Christmas?"

"Because it was important to me," Laney replied. Jason sat down next to Laney.

"Well, it was humiliating for me," Jason replied.

"Because you misunderstood what was going on... I panicked, Jason," Laney confessed. Jason touched his mouth, and Laney pulled his hand from his face. "Don't do that..." Laney's voice was soft.

"Laney, what are you saying?" Jason asked. "I thought you made things pretty clear back then."

"I didn't make anything clear at all... Things weren't clear to me back then. Jason, I didn't run away because I didn't like you. I ran away because I didn't know I was gay until that moment and then I had to deal with all those feelings... And... Jason, I wasn't ready to come out, not then. How many boys were out when we were growing up?" Laney explained.

"So you did like me? I always thought that you were—." Jason trailed off. "Wait, does that mean I was your first kiss?"

Laney smiled awkwardly and nodded as the machine beeped in the background. Laney looked away and took a few breaths until the machine stopped beeping. Jason raised his hand back to his mouth to bite his nails, and Laney leaned forward and held his hand. "Stop, okay?" Laney whispered. "Was I yours?"

Jason shook his head. "But it meant a lot to me," he whispered.

"Can I kiss you?" Laney whispered so low that Jason could barely hear him. "Jason?" Jason leaned forward, and he hoped that Laney couldn't see how nervous he was. Laney touched the nape of Jason's neck, and he parted his lips as if he wanted to whisper something, only for their lips to meet. They both pulled away for a moment to look at one another, and Laney leaned back in, allowing for a second kiss. They held each other and kissed until they were breathless, their faces were flush, and they touched foreheads. Laney's ears heated up, and his ears rang. They never even heard the machine beep.

Jason giggled as he whispered, "Fuck," faintly into Laney's mouth.

"Did you just fucking giggle?" Laney laughed. Jason turned his head, still allowing their foreheads to touch. "No, let's address that—."

"Don't be a jerk," Jason laughed, "I should go—."

"You don't have to. I already slept twice since you left the last time. Stay a little longer," Laney whispered, "Please."

"I won't move," Jason laughed. Laney touched Jason's face and brushed Jason's cheek with his thumb.

"I probably shouldn't kiss you again," Laney laughed, "I forgot I still have a fever—." Jason held Laney's hand to his face.

"I didn't forget. I just didn't care," Jason murmured as he kissed Laney's palm. "Please..." Laney gave him a quick peck on the lips.

He tensed up. "How long do you think my Mom's been standing there?" Laney asked. Jason turned around and let go of Laney's hand.

"Should I go?" Jason asked. Laney shook his head.

"No, stay. I've been wanting to see you... Just stay," Laney whispered as he gestured for his mom to come in. She opened the door, and a grin spread across her face.

"Hi, Jason," Lois greeted him, " Laney, I met your roommate, Sylvia, and she said she fed Gus Gus, and she hopes you feel better."

"You can ask," Laney replied.

"When did this happen?" Lois asked, pointing to the both of them.

"Literally five minutes ago... How long were you out there?" Laney asked.

"Ten seconds," Lois answered. Jason still couldn't move himself to say anything. "I just wanted to check in with you. Clark said you got upset at the nurse during breakfast."

"Ugh, don't remind me. Christopher and Sammy probably think I'm a huge jerk," Laney groaned.

"The opposite. Sammy and Chris couldn't wait to tell Conner and me all about it," Lois whispered, "That's all I wanted to say. Do you want me to get anything from your apartment later?"

Laney shook his head. "Thanks, Mom. I'm good," he whispered before giving her a hug, and she gave him a thumbs up on the way out the door. "Aww, Mom..."

Jason smiled. "I've always liked your mom," Jason smiled.

"Please tell me you don't—."

"Next topic. Laney, what did we just do?" Jason asked. Laney sighed.

"What do you mean? We kissed, we finally acknowledged how we felt about each other, and at least we know that on both ends, there's some attraction between us two," Laney replied. Jason nodded.

"So, what? Are we gonna go on dates now? Are we dating?" Jason asked.

"Dates? Like going out to eat, going to parties, making out in the coronary care unit?" Laney asked.

Jason shook his head and chuckled. "We did not make out—."

"We did so—."

"Making out would imply tongue. We didn't make out. We kissed. We had two amazing kisses, that was all," Jason replied. Laney smiled bashfully.

"You said they were amazing, so I'll take that," Laney smiled. Jason smiled back.

"And that's coming from the first person that ever kissed you," Jason added.

"Who was your first kiss?" Laney asked.

"Laney, if you're asking if you're the first boy I ever kissed, you are... But my very first kiss was a girl a few months before I met you," Jason whispered. Someone knocked on the glass door, and Laney gestured for them to come in.

"Hey, Christopher," Laney smiled, "Wait... Weren't you with Mom or Dad?"

"I was with Mama... Then, Dad. Can I ask you something?" Chris asked.

Laney nodded. "Is it okay if Jason stays while you ask?" Laney asked.

"Dad said I could spend the weekend with you sometimes if it's okay with you," Chris mumbled, "I know I can't stay this weekend... But maybe when you're feeling better in a few weeks..." Chris fidgeted with his hands, and Laney nodded.

"Of course you can stay over sometimes... On one condition, you have to use your whole bedroom. I don't mean doing your homework in different spots. I mean, enjoy your own room. You and Jon have rooms all to yourselves," Laney whispered, "You should enjoy that."

Chris shook his head, "But, what if you want to come home?"

"I'll be a visitor in your room if you'll have me. I don't live there anymore. I visit," Laney explained, "You can do whatever you want to your room. You're thirteen-years-old, don't you ever think about changing things up a little?"

Jason smiled. "He's right. You could do something really cool with your room now that it's all yours," Jason agreed.

Chris smiled. "Okay," he nodded.

"Do you know if Sammy kept my sweatshirt with the coffee stain on it?" Laney asked. Chris smiled and nodded.

"Mom won't let him wear it to school," Chris whispered. Laney smiled.

"What are you doing today?" Laney asked. "I hope you guys aren't wasting an entire three-day weekend hanging around the hospital."

"It's not a three-day weekend, not really," Chris replied, "But Dad's gonna take us to hang out with Damian."

"Have you guys talked to him lately?" Jason asked. Chris nodded.

"We called him this morning, and he asked me to tell you to call him tonight. I think he's mad," Chris whispered.

"No, that's just his resting voice," Jason joked, "But I'll call him later..."

"What are you doing in school?" Laney asked.

"We're playing tennis in my gym class. I think I'm gonna try out for the team next month. My teacher says I'm good," Chris mumbled.

"That's what I like to hear. I didn't even know you liked tennis," Laney whispered as he playfully punched Chris's shoulder.

"I didn't know I liked it until we learned how to play," Chris smiled. Laney lit up for a moment, almost forgetting how tired he was. "If I make the team will you come to see me play sometimes?"

"Would I come to see you play? Of course, I would! I'll even come in school colors," Laney beamed. It was almost funny how genuinely excited Laney was. Jason hadn't realized how mature Laney seemed around his brothers. Chris even seemed like he looked up to Laney. "I'm glad you found something that you like to do. Maybe in a few weeks, you could show me how to play at the park." Chris nodded excitedly, and Clark and Sammy knocked on the door.

"Are we interrupting?" Clark asked. Jason shook his head.

"I'll see you later on," Jason whispered to Laney as he pressed a kiss to Laney's cheek. Sammy's jaw dropped.

"But you said—."

"There was a new development," Jason answered as he messed up Sammy's hair on his way out the door. As he exited the hospital, he noticed Lois and Conner sitting at a table eating fast food together, and Lois waved him over. He hesitated for a moment before he sat with them, and Conner took a sip of coffee.

"We haven't even said anything yet, and you already look like you're dying of embarrassment," Conner laughed, and Lois nudged him.

"Be nice," Lois whispered. Conner picked over his chicken. "Eat with us. Clark's not hungry, and we've got more than enough."

"About Laney and I—."

"Wait, you guys kissed, didn't you?" Conner asked, and Lois shot him a look. Jason nodded.

Jason grabbed a paper plate, and Lois gave him some of the food they got from the restaurant. "Do you still like green beans?" Lois asked.

"Uh-huh," Jason answered. As he took a fork and started to eat.

"Tim called you and Laney's school and rescheduled our gig... So, I guess we're gonna play two weeks from now on Saturday," Conner mentioned.

"Mm," Lois stopped him and tried to finish chewing, "Are you still doing covers?" Conner nodded.

"Yeah, like four of the songs in our set are covers. I think I'm gonna head back to the apartment after this to help Bart make the new posters," Conner replied.

Lois lit up. "Do you need help?" she asked.

"Mom, I'm cool, really. Unless you just wanna come over and hang out, that's cool too," Conner offered.

"Wait, I just remembered I can't. Your dad said Laney's roommate is coming by after lunch, and I wanna meet them," Lois replied.

"Slyvia's a girl. I haven't met her yet, though," Conner blurted out. Lois smiled.

"Laney!" a girl yelled from the parking lot. "You're supposed to be in the—. You're not Laney, are you?"

Conner shook his head and reached out to shake her hand.

"I'm his younger brother, Conner. We look a lot alike, except my eyes are the same color," Conner explained. She smiled and leaned closer.

"You two could be twins... So, you must be Laney's mom. It's so nice to meet you," Sylvia shook her hand.

Lois smiled at her. "It's nice to meet you too," Lois replied, "This is Jason—."

"He and Laney finally acknowledged that they're attracted to each other, so we're not sure if we should call him Laney's friend or—." Lois nudged Conner.

"Nice to meet you," Jason smiled as he shook Sylvia's hand. "Do you go to the university?"

"Yeah, I'm a theatre major," Sylvia replied, "Which is kind of fun because Laney's major is music therapy, so—."

"Laney changed his major to music therapy?" Conner interrupted, his mouth half-full. Sylvia nodded.

Lois took Sylvia's arm and offered to show her where Laney's hospital room was, leaving Jason and Conner to talk to each other. "I don't think you look that much like Laney," Jason replied.

"That's because you've spent more time with Laney than anybody I've ever known," Conner whispered, "Other than Chris."

"How come you and Laney stopped sharing a room?" Jason asked.

"We fought too much... And he was the only one who didn't mind getting up when Chris had nightmares," Conner replied. Sammy came outside and circled the table. "Chill!" Conner laughed.

Sammy sat down next to Conner. "Are you Laney's boyfriend now?" Sammy asked.

"We'll see," Jason answered softly. Sammy took his mother's plate and started to eat after her.

"Dad said I can sleepover at your house tonight," Sammy said.

"And why would you want to do that, Jonny number two?" Conner asked as he pinched Sammy's cheek.

"Stop!" Sammy swatted his hand away. "You said I could if I wanted to."

"Okay, but you still have to go to bed at eight-thirty," Conner replied. Sammy put his fork down.

"But I'm not even going to school tomorrow!" he exclaimed.

"Trust me, you'll be tired by then anyway," Conner replied.

"But you stay up late," Sammy replied.

"I'm not a kid. Besides, I'm giving you a whole extra thirty minutes on a school night because I know you didn't finish your homework," Conner replied.

"How do you—?"

"I didn't... A little trick I learned from Dad," Conner smiled. Jason chuckled. Jason finished eating and threw his plate out.

"Wanna see the dance I learned from TikTok?" Sammy asked.

"I have a feeling you're about to do it anyway," Conner mumbled as Sammy stood up and showed him. Conner covered his mouth as he took a moment to collect himself. "You know, that's neat, Sam. I would try it, but I have too much self-respect."

"No, you don't. I saw your yearbook picture," Sammy replied. Jason gasped.

"Sammy!" Jason laughed.

[dykevanny]

Sorry I don't know all of the wererabbit lore could you explain to me? Sorry if you already have by the way!

HAPPY TO RAMBLE I’M LIKE THE HIPPO.

Ok so basically. Idk when exactly it takes place but the aftons are all alive, henry and Charlie are alive, the glamrocks are a few 20-somethings with a shitty transgender garage band, cassie tony and Ellis are hanging around, cassidy hangs around Evan and Charlie, and well basically. Vanessa and Gregory were both homeless (they met at 17 and 6)(vanessa ran away, gregory has dead parents LOL) and ended up living with Freddy yay! Nessa soon got a nice normal job at a totally normal local diner (Fredbears) and ends up meeting william yay!! They hang around a lot and it’s nice :] will gets someone new to monologue at and vanessa gets a whimsical father figure. Unfortunately for literally everyone William has made a discovery!

For some fuckass reason he’s discovered how LITERAL KOOKY MOON MAGIC works and is using his favorite employees as his TEST SUBJECTS. He tried to turn bonnie into a wererabbit and the guy DIED. Surely this did not impact anyone in any sort of way. Well after perfecting his funky spell he decided to test it on Vanessa and .. it worked.! So now during full moons she turns into a giant rabbit creature that William can command. He uses this power for murder of course- because he is quite silly. Vanessa does not remember anything that happens as the werebunny and is quite distressed whenever she wakes up in the woods in her PJs covered in somebody else’s blood. Not fun. However she hasn’t. Told Gregory or Freddy because she doesn’t wanna worry them.. also William knows about this issue and says he can help so surely she doesn’t have to worry right? one night, the afton kids had gregory over for a goofy sleepover!(Michael was acting like a chaperone all ‘ohh well I’m the oldest so i better make sure you guys don’t set lizzy’s room on fire’ when actually he is participating equally in the chaos.) they end up playing hide and seek in the woods…. Which sounds stupid but trust me living in front of the woods does that to ya. Anyways they encounter the werebunny (ran away from will.. turns out giant neurotic prey animal is difficult to control sometimes) and these whimsical children take it home with them because they noticed it had been chained up and decided they HAD to save it.. so of course the beast had like 13 bows in it’s fur. They have it sleep under lizzy’s bed just in case mrs afton walks in and sees it and well in the morning they check and. WHY IS VANESSA HERE.!?

……………so basically the kids know vanessa is a werebunny. Vanessa is just finding this information out and is very distressed. William doesn’t know his kids found the werebunny but he knows SOMEbody is tampering with his murder freak animal (and well, gregory treats the werebunny like an oversized lapdog, Liz and Ev are living their Disney princess dream, and Michael is having his HTTYD era but ultimately that doesn’t affect Will’s control over it he’s just got control issues)

Um and yeah it’s uh basically a goofy silly au from my Powerful Transgender Mind uhh yeah 👍 fucking bunby reblog if you agree

[liaromancewriter]

May I Have This Dance?

Premise: Is there anything more romantic than slow dancing in the kitchen on a do-nothing day?

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Words: 1,175

A/N: For narrative purposes, this is set on the same day as Sleeping Beauty. Submission for @choicesprompts Flufftober prompt "Can I have this dance?" I'm also using @choicesflashfics week 54, prompt 1

Ethan Ramsey stared at the announcement for this year’s homecoming dance tacked onto the noticeboard in the hallway. His hands itched to snatch a flyer to peruse later, but he kept them tightly fisted to his sides.

There was a reason he’d ditched the whole thing last year, he reminded himself morosely.

He couldn’t dance and wasn’t about to embarrass himself in front of the entire school. Plus, there was the whole awkwardness of asking a girl out. They tended to travel in packs, and getting one alone long enough to ask her without her friends staring and giggling nearby was as impossible as travel to Mars.

It was a pipe dream, he thought in dismay but unable to unglue his feet. He wasn’t in a position to go, and that was that. Besides, who decided that participating in homecoming dances and proms was a right of passage for high schoolers?

Hollywood, that’s who. Twentysomething actors playing high school students didn’t make it all so. It was a fallacy, as most things in life were.

“Wow, you look fierce. Did you have a fight with someone?”

Ethan glanced sideways at the concerned voice of his neighbor and friend, Miranda Clarke. He inwardly grimaced at being caught boring a hole into the noticeboard.

She’d been the nerdy girl with braces and pigtails all through elementary and middle school. At the start of freshman year, he did a double take when she greeted him at the bus stop, no braces in sight, her blonde hair in a waterfall behind her and a pretty headband sparkling under the sun.

Miranda might look different now, but she was still one of the smartest and nicest people he knew. She also understood what it was like to be abandoned by a parent, or both parents in her case.

“Not a fight,” he said, lowering his voice to avoid being overheard by others, and inadvertently eyed the flyer.

“Ah,” she said, following his gaze. “I didn’t think school dances were your thing.”

“They’re not,” he muttered, feeling the redness splash across his cheeks.

Miranda’s eyes softened in sympathy, and he felt sorry for lying to his friend.

“It’s okay to change your mind, Ethan,” she said, lightly touching his arm. “No one’s going to care if you attend a dance one year and skip it altogether another. This isn’t about what anyone else wants, just you.”

“I know that,” he protested, stopping himself from rolling his eyes. Miranda had a habit of lecturing him when he was being cagey.

He straightened away from the wall and shrugged, adopting an air of indifference. “It’s moot anyway since I can’t dance.”

“Can’t?” Miranda placed a hand on his elbow to stop him as he turned to go. “Or don’t know how?”

Ethan sighed, his lips parting to deliver a well-versed white lie. But this was Miranda, and they’d known each other all their lives. She’d just hound him on the way home until he told her the truth.

“Don’t know how,” he admitted reluctantly. “I can’t exactly ask my dad to teach me, can I? He has enough to worry about.”

“You could ask me,” she suggested.

Ethan watched her warily. “You’d be willing to do that?”

She laughed. “Of course! That’s what friends do.”

Suddenly, her face turned serious, and she stared at a spot behind him, a light red staining her cheekbones. “Maybe after, you could ask me to homecoming? Only if you want to,” she added quickly when he froze like a deer in headlights.

“I would like that,” he said quietly, thinking about it for all of five seconds.

The bell rang for the next period, and he cleared the gruffness in his throat, raising his voice above the noise. “Thanks, Miranda. I appreciate it.”

“You’re welcome, Ethan,” Miranda smiled. “If you’re not working today, we can have the first lesson after school. Around four, your house?”

Dance lessons and a date to homecoming, he marveled as they parted ways to head to class. The year was suddenly looking much brighter.

Twentysomething years later…

“I want to spend the day with you doing nothing. And by nothing, I mean…”

Ethan grinned as Cassie Valentine leaned on the kitchen island and wiggled her eyebrows suggestively.

It was the first Sunday since his return from Brazil and Cassie’s first official sleepover. There hadn’t been time for that before he left a couple of months ago. But now that they’d decided to give this relationship a real chance, they wanted their private moments to be less stolen and more intentional.

“In case you haven’t noticed, the day is half over,” he said, pretending disinterest as he rinsed a skillet and stacked it in the dishwasher with the rest of the dishes from a late brunch. “If only you’d woken up earlier, we could have had so much fun.”

“Sunday mornings are made for sleeping in,” Cassie’s brows knitted in exasperation. “Especially after the week I had. And I thought intern year was bad.”

“You’ll adjust,” he commented unconcerned, pressing a button to start the dishwasher’s cycle before grabbing a cloth to wipe down the counter.

“What?” he demanded when he looked up to see Cassie watching him with amusement in her eyes.

“Nothing,” she said, coming around the kitchen island to stand before him. She glanced at the wipe cloth in his hand. “I had no idea you were so domesticated, Dr. Ramsey.”

He smirked, caging her in his arms. “I’m a man of many talents, Dr. Valentine.”

The sun was high in the sky, the glare of its rays bouncing off the treated glass. Soft music drifted from a Bluetooth speaker in the corner, casting a magical spell over the kitchen and its occupants and lending an air of romance.

“But can you dance?” Cassie whispered, caressing the nape of his neck with her fingertips.

“What brought this on?” Ethan arched one brow in curiosity.

“Since we’re getting to know each other,” she pulled his head down, “you should know that I love to dance, especially slow dancing in the moonlight.” Her green eyes sparkled, and her lips curved into a soft, dreamy smile. “Or in a sun-dappled kitchen on a lazy Sunday afternoon.”

The music changed to something slow and romantic, and Ethan found his lips hovering above hers, heart pounding with potent anticipation.

“So? Can you?” she murmured.

“Yes.”

Cassie closed the distance between them, gently pressing her lips against his, and he fell into the moment.

“May I have this dance, Cassie?” Ethan asked, sliding his hand into hers.

“I would love to, Ethan.”

He placed one hand on her waist, splayed his fingers and tugged her close. Cassie rested her hand on his shoulder, and he led her into a slow dance, their bodies swaying to the rhythm.

He followed the moves he’d learned all those years ago, dancing in the living room with Miranda. And when Cassie laughed as he dipped her low, Ethan sent a silent thanks to his friend for giving him this.

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

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[walker-extended-universe]

Walker Series Finale Review

This one's going to be a little different than my normal reviews. I'm not going to give a full recap and I'll focus more on my reactions, my hopes, and my (very minor) disappointments.

I have a lot of love for this show and it's very hard for me to see it end, but I think the ending we got was very good and I want to focus on those feelings and hopefully spark further conversation with y'all.

So, let's dive into it.

One of the things I want to talk about first is that, while it didn't feel like a Series finale, it was very satisfying. I think Anna and the team made the right choice choosing not to film an alternate "final" ending. I think if we'd gotten a "proper" finale, it would've been an hour of unearned character moments and rushed dynamics. Everything about this episode felt so natural and while I wish we were getting more, I can appreciate the endings we got.

One thing I really appreciated about the ending was how light it was. I feel like everyone got a happy ending (or close enough to one at least) and after this season, that's what we all needed. Abby and Bonham figuring out their retirement goals, Stella looking forward to a more relaxing college experience, Sadie sticking around the Walker-Broussard family..... All of it was perfect. While I don't have much to say on those plots specifically since there wasn't much to them this episode, I think they ended well.

Now, I want to go over the Big Endings we got and do a little gushing.

First, I want to cover Ben and Liam's conclusion. We've seen them take small steps this season with Ben becoming more integrated into the Walker family and Liam letting his guard down more for him. It was a small part of the season (and one where most of the progression happened off screen) but one I enjoyed nonetheless. We finally get to see them take that finale step toward a complete future together with Liam asking Ben to move in together and start looking at houses. It was a very small, quick moment but one that I loved, especially the actual conversation XD I love Liam and his inability to be normal about things and I'm sure "I want you to use normal words" is a phrase we will hear often in the future Walker-Perez household.

Before I dive too deep into the big emotions of the episode, I want to talk about August's character development. The reveal that August had applied for colleges behind everyone's backs and decided against going to the military was a relief for me. And just the statement of "I guess I'm just that disciplined" shows me that he learned he doesn't have to do that to be worthy of love. While I wish we knew more about his exact plans for the future (and how the hell he got the money for the application fee to Harvard without anyone noticing), I'm happy to hear he's not so self-depricating anymore.

Next, I want to talk about Cassie. I've been feeling a lot of feelings about her for the past few episodes since Anna killed Luna off for no reason (by her own admission too -_-). While I'm not a big fan of her becoming James' lieutenant, I had a feeling that's where the story was going and since she can't have a happy personal life, I appreciate that she got to have at least that dream come true. I also really loved how the show portrayed and handled her grief over Luna. She's struggling, especially with her relationship with Cordell, but she has a lot of support around her and she's glad for it. That scene with Cassie and Kelly and Geri on the couch will be living rent free in my heart <3.

One big thing that I appreciated about her arc this episode is that she's not completely 1000% back on her feet. She's still grieving Luna. She's still wondering if she made the right choice to stay in Austin. She's still conflicted over Cordell. But she wants to get better and move on to a brighter future. So, she forgives Cordell. She gracefully takes the promotion. She opens herself up to her close friends. It felt very natural and comforting and it's more than I could've hoped for for the finale. I wish we could've gotten to see her settle into her role and learn to manage all her new expectations and guidelines dynamics, but there's always fanfic <3

Of course, I can't review this episode without talking about Cordell and his journey. We've seen him hit his lowest point this season and his time in the finale was dedicated to trying to fix some of his messes. His conversations with Stella and August really hit a cord with me and I'm so glad we got to have them before the show ended. That and the constant repetition that he really just need to be there for them. He didn't have to be perfect or set aside all his other ambitions; he just couldn't forget about them.

This translates well to his contentions with Geri. He wants to be the kind of man Geri needs, the kind who's there when she needs him and doesn't leave her feeling neglected. But he needed to learn that that also means letting her be there for him. It means that when he starts to spiral down a dark road, he still leaves a trail for her to follow. No more lying and pretending things are Fine just for the sake of it. And he's willing to make those changes, starting by taking a leave of absence and taking the whole family on a well-deserved vacation. It's the start of a new chapter in his life and I wish him the best.

This episode made me emotional in the best way. While I'm sad we won't have any more adventures with the Walker family, I'm satisfied with where their stories are headed. And, with an open ending like that, who knows what we might get in the future?

But those are just my thoughts. What are yours?