#so i thought oh maybe it wants a trellis so i moved it to mine which in partial shade

[meatsound]

coming back here means plantposting

[loostssoul]

if you kissed me - Rodrick Heffley | 1.9k

Yeah yeah i know i haven't written since a million years ago. and yeah yeah i know this is my first real fanfiction i posted on tumblr. fair warning, i'm not the best writer, i honestly just do this for fun and i'm totally up to criticism because i do want to make my writing better. if this is literally inaccurate, im sorry its been like 5 years since i've read the books. Anyway, I hope you enjoy this fluff-fest that I created in the span of a few hours.

paring: rodrick x reader genre: fluff. lots of fluff

Credits to the maker of the picture! 15 Days till the Contest | 9:42 PM, Saturday

Plick, plick, plick

My speakers were blasting so loud I almost didn’t hear the sound of pebbles hitting my window.

Plick, plick, plick

I rubbed my eyes and slammed my laptop shut, walking toward my bedroom window. Peering down, I saw a figure a few yards down from my second-story bedroom, looking back up at me. Dark brown, messy hair that stuck up around his face. A red and black flannel, black ripped jeans, and, (of course) a tee-shirt with “Loded Diper” clumsily written on it. A grin spread on his face as he saw my face come into his view, causing me to blush. Rodrick Heffley, Crossland High bad boy, and my boyfriend.

I unlocked the latch to my window and stuck my head out, taking in the cool air and letting the neighbors enjoy the music I was playing (they never did). I looked down.

“Y/N!” He whisper-yelled

“Evening, Heffley.”

“I need to tell you something!”

“What’s so important that you have to scratch my window instead of using the power of modern technology to call me?”

His mouth opened to give me a response, but nothing came out. I smirked, “Come on up.”

I opened the window wider as he climbed the trellis that lined the back of my house. I backed up to my door and locked it. Precautions, my parents liked Rodrick but they definitely wouldn’t approve of him in my room at night. I looked back and I saw him, every feature of him illuminated by the light of my room. His cheeky smile and chocolate brown eyes. He slowly closed the window and walked toward me, brushing a strand of hair out of my face. I still got butterflies whenever he touched me.

“Hey, Spiderman. What did ya climb in here to tell me?” I asked

“I got Loded Diper into a contest.”

My eyes widened, Loded Diper, my boyfriend’s rock band, wasn’t exactly known for being the best. It was mostly known for his mom’s insane dance moves during the Plainview Talent Show. But of course, i'll never say that in front of his face.

“You did?! That’s awesome Rodrick!”

“Yeah! It's a battle of the bands contest, we’re going against two other bands. I really think this is gonna be our big break!” His eyes sparkled in excitement.

His happiness was contagious, he was like a goddamn puppy. I pulled him into my arms. “I’m proud of you Rod.” I muttered and smiled into his collarbone. I felt him inhale the scent of my hair and twirl my locks around his fingers.

“Hey,” he said, breaking the hug. “I’m having practice tomorrow with the band, you wanna come?”

“Sure. I go to every practice anyway, why miss out on this one?” I shrugged.

He chuckled and looked at me. Really looked at me. That’s one of the reasons why I fell for him. It never seemed like it, but he paid attention. We’ve only been dating for 4 months, but he knew me like no one else did, and I knew that in the way he looked at me. I felt his hand cup my face, his thumb rubbing my cheek in small circles. I looked up at him, noticing how tall he was, how close he was. Was I the one who leaned in? Was he the one who leaned in? Did we just do it subconsciously? Did he want this? Was he ready? Was I ready?

The ringing of Rodrick’s phone filled the room. The daze we were trapped in was gone and we separated, our faces red. Rodrick picked up the phone, it was his mom.

“Yeah, mom? Mom...I’m in the middle of something. I’ll do laundry later, ok? Now? C’mon… Alright, fine. Bye.” He hung up. “Sorry, I gotta blast.”

“It’s fine, I’ll see you tomorrow?” I asked him as he started toward my window.

He looked back at me and planted a kiss on my forehead, the farthest we’ve ever gone with physical touch as a couple.

“Tomorrow”

~~✰✰✰~~

14 Days till the Contest | 1:22 PM, Saturday afternoon

“Should we take it from the top?”

Practice wasn’t going so well. I could feel the nervousness, the tension. Drums were slightly off beat, the guitarist’s fingers would fly to the wrong places on the fretboard, lyrics would go all over the place. The contest was two weeks away, and Loded Diper was already feeling the anxiousness. I sat on the floor of the garage, on top of a picnic blanket I found. To Rodrick’s dismay, his mom forced him to let Greg watch band practice, as a form of “brother-to-brother bonding time.” Greg sat next to me, mockingly covering his ears.

“Oh thank god, it's done.” Greg said with an immense amount of sarcasm and uncovering his ears.

Rodrick threw a crumpled-up piece of paper at his head, “Shut up.”

“Both of you, be nice.” I laughed. “I think you guys should take a break for a while, maybe shake off the nerves.”

“Good idea Y/N, 20 minute break everyone!” The lead singer said. Everyone spread out, grabbing a piece of pizza ordered earlier and laying down. Greg ran out of the garage, yelling, “I’m free!”

Rodrick stood up and began gulping down a bottle of water. He wore a black tanktop and black ripped jeans, sweat dripping down his forehead. I ran up behind him and wrapped my arms around his torso. He turned and faced me, running his hands through my hair, lost in thought.

“You ok, Rod?” I asked him.

He sighed, “nerves”

I leaned my head on his chest, “You’re gonna do great, you’ve done so many gigs in the past. Think of this as one of those!”

He smiled at me, “You know what would make me feel a lot less nervous?”

“Oh god. What?”

A really common thing Rodrick did was try to bargain a kiss on the lips from me. It's been an ongoing joke, a meaningless bit he did all the time. I’ll do my homework if you kissed me on the lips. I’ll smile in the picture if you kissed me on the lips. It still hasn’t worked.

“I might be less nervous if you kissed me on the lips.” He whispered to me.

I rolled my eyes, “If that’s what it takes then I think you’ll lose the competition.”

He let go of me and laughed, my favorite laugh. “Worth a try.” He shrugged, going off to join his bandmates and the pizza. But as I watched him smile and laugh with his friends, I lost myself. I thought about the previous night. The way we fit into each other, the closeness, the fact that was so close that I could see my reflection in his eyes.

Maybe I should just say yes.

~~✰✰✰~~

The Day of the Contest

For the past 2 weeks, Rodrick has given me the “kiss-bargain” joke 9 times. Every time, I deflected it with sarcastic remarks, and every time I regretted not agreeing.

I sat on the front steps of my porch, waiting for Rodrick to pick me up. I regretted the jean shorts and plain black tee-shirt I had on, as a cold breeze brushed my skin. I pulled my black leather jacket on, which I painted “Loded Diper” on the back in white paint. Then, I heard it. The echo of heavy metal turned to full blast, and… the faint sound of something big getting knocked over. Oh god, they’re here. The white van with “Loded Diper” written in huge words screeched to a halt in front of my house.

The window rolled down, revealing my boyfriend and his excited grin. “Get in.”

~~✰✰✰~~

30 minutes till Loded Diper preforms

It felt surreal to be backstage, and really exciting. Energy was flowing through the room, as all the other bands talked and played. The rest of the band members seemed excited, full of adrenaline. Except for Rodrick, he’s been nervous ever since soundcheck. His leg was bouncing,he twirled his drumsticks around, drumming them on random objects, and his eyes stared into nothing.

“Rodrick, you want me to do your eyeliner?”

“Huh?” He didn’t take his eyes away from the ground, his voice seemed far away.

I lifted a liquid eyeliner pen I had in my pocket, “Eyeliner. I just did mine, we can match!”

He lifted his head and noticed me. I had my eyeliner smudged, just like he always does during a gig. He grinned, “Yeah. Yeah sure.”

I’ve done his eyeliner many times in the past, and I loved doing it because I had to be as close to him as possible. So I hopped onto his lap, pressing myself close to him, trying to comfort him with my warmth.

“Close your eyes.” I ordered.

As I applied his eyeliner, I could feel his heartbeat against my chest. It was heavy, and fast. I’m pretty sure I would still hear it if I wasn’t as close to him as I was, even though the loud music blasting through the theatre.

“Done”

He opened his eyes, and butterflies flooded my stomach. We were close. Very close. Should I do it? Should I lean in?

Rodrick probably sensed my flustered-ness. He smirked, “Cat got your tongue?”

I rolled my eyes, blushing hard. “Shut up.” I said, playfully punching him.

~~✰✰✰~~

“5 Minutes until Loded Diper performs!” A man exclaimed to us.

Rodrick was as nervous as ever. We’ve been standing on the left wing of the stage, watching the other bands play. It felt like a bunch of Loded Diper copy-pastes. A bunch of high schoolers, weird names, very aggressive playing. But they were still pretty good. Rodrick was biting the nails of one of his hands and tapping his other hand on the wall behind him. I looked up at him and held his hand, stopping it from fidgeting. He smiled nervously.

Now or never Y/N…

“Hey, you said that if I kiss you, you won’t be as nervous. Right?”

He looked at me, wide eyed. He seemed to be trying to compute what I said.

I stood on tiptoe and put his face in my hands. It was that night all over again. Every detail of his face, of him was in full view. His eyes, his eyeliner, his scent, his lips. I leaned in.

His lips were soft against mine, but they were tense, flustered. I was terrified, It was the wrong place, the wrong time. Until I felt one hand in my hair, another on my waist, pulling me closer.

How long was the kiss? A few seconds? It felt like minutes, hours. Sparked ignited. Butterflies flew in my stomach. His scent was the only thing I smelled, his warmth was the only thing I felt. The music faded away. Everything faded away. It was just him and I. Until we broke apart, taking in deep breaths of each other. We wanted more, but Loded Diper was playing in a few seconds.

“Hey, Rodrick.”

“Yeah?”

“If you win I’ll kiss you again”

We both knew I would kiss him regardless.

I didn't edit this because editing is for wimps (just kidding be responsible and edit your work)

please like and reblog because it gives me serotonin and i need that

[the-badger-mole]

Marriage AU Part 2

Here is the second in a series of vignettes centered around an arranged Zutara marriage.

Zuko was pleasantly surprised to find that Katara was able to keep up with him with little problem. She got onto the rooftop without his help. Once they reached the top, Katara took off the balaclava Zuko had given her. She must have felt Zuko’s consternation because she put her hands on her hips.

“No one can see us,” she said defensively. “And it’s stuffy in there!” Behind his mask, Zuko raised an eyebrow. But after a moment, he conceded she was right on both counts. He reached up and undid his own mask.

“Your mask is so much cooler than mine,” Katara sighed, taking the mask from Zuko. She held it up to her face and growled. Zuko let out a snort of laughter as he took down his hood.

“It was the best I could do on such short notice,” he told her with an apologetic shrug. “I’ll get you a different one for next time.” Katara lowered the mask and regarded Zuko archly.

“So, there’s going to be a next time?”  she asked. Zuko folded his arms, his eyes narrowed pointedly.

“I don’t know. Is there?” Katara’s cheeks flushed and she mumbled something as she handed Zuko back his mask,  ignoring his knowing smirk. She went to the edge of the roof, careful to stay in the shadows. She watched the activity in the street below with a longing sigh.

“I’m sorry we can’t go down.” Zuko stood in the space beside her, and Katara thought she recognized the same craving for the press and flow of the crowd in his eyes. It surprised her. She hadn’t taken him for a people person.

“This is nice, though,”  she said, suddenly needing to reassure him. Then she laughed nervously. “You know, it...it kind of feels like a date.”  Zuko turned to her sharply, eyes widened in shock.

“Wha…?”  Katara felt her cheeks bloom in what she was sure as a spectacular blush.

“I - I mean,  I’m not saying it actually is one,” she stammered. “It just...I don’t know… kind of feels like one.” Zuko was blushing now, too.

“I guess it does,” he admitted. They couldn’t meet each other’s eyes now, and Katara mentally kicked herself for making things awkward when they were getting along for once.

“I wouldn’t know anyway,” Katara continued, unable to catch a hold of her tongue. “I’ve never been on a date.” That caught Zuko off guard.

“Never?” he repeated incredulously. Katara pressed her lips together and shook her head.

“I didn’t really have the chance when we were...travelling. And after the- the betrothal,  there just didn’t seem to be much of a point, you know?” Zuko wasn’t expecting the tide of sympathy  that rose in him. Suddenly he understood what Katara had sacrificed in the name of peace. She had gone from war orphan, to child warrior, to political bride. Had she ever experienced any of the normal things a young woman was supposed to? Zuko felt unworthy  of everything she’d given up.  He wished that he could go back to the peace talks and assure the Water Tribes that he was done with his family’s war, and they were safe from the Fire Nation, marriage treaty or no.

“We...we could  call this a date,” he offered shyly. Surprise was evident in Katara’s wide eyes. Zuko lowered his gaze and mumbled, “ If you want to.” Katara looked back down at the street and fiddled with the edge of her shirt. Just as Zuko was contemplating finding an earthbender and asking them to bury him, Katara cleared her throat.

“It...it wouldn’t be a bad thing,” she said. “We are married, after all. We should at least try to...to be friends?” Zuko glanced up to find Katara watching him with wide, hopeful eyes. They  looked impossibly blue in the light of the crescent moon. Zuko’s mouth went dry, and his tongue stuck to the roof of his mouth. He swallowed hard and nodded. Katara smiled at Zuko then, wide and bright. She had never smiled at him like that. He had barely seen her smile at all since she arrived. Zuko felt overwhelmed.  To his relief, she looked away a moment later, and he could breathe again.

“So,” she chuckled, “my first date ever is with the man I’m already married to.”

“It’s kind of lame. I’m sorry.”  Iroh, Zuko thought, would be disappointed. He should have given Katara flowers, and they should have gone to a nice restaurant in nice clothes. Instead, he had her scrambling up on the roof of an abandoned, and probably condemned building in a mask.

“I’m having a good time.” Katara sounded as surprised as Zuko felt. “Besides, it’s not like I have anything to compare it to.”

“I- I’m having a good time, too,” Zuko admitted. Katara smiled at him again, and his heart sped up in the strangest way.

“What about you?” Katara asked.

“Huh?”  Zuko replied intelligently. Katara chuckled.

“Is this your first date?” she clarified.

“Oh!” Zuko blushed slightly. “Well...no.  I- I had a girlfriend before…”

“Oh!” Katara took a step backwards. “I didn’t know that. Wait...you didn’t  break up because of me, did you?’  Zuko’s mouth opened and closed a few times as he tried to form a coherent answer. His hesitation spoke volumes, though. Katara took another step back, and Zuko panicked. He could see the warmth that had been building between him and his new wife was crumbling.

“It’s… complicated,” Zuko told Katara. “But I chose this with my eyes open. It’s not your fault we broke up.”  There was a suspicious shine in Katara’s eyes. She blinked hard, and it was gone. Zuko reached out hesitantly, taking Katara’s hand. “We both gave up a lot for this. For what it’s worth…” Zuko trailed off, uncertain of how to finish. Katara smiled weakly and turned her hand to hold his.

“Yeah,” she murmured, agreeing to neither of them really knew what.

“Besides, I think Mai and I-”

“Mai?” Katara snatched her hand back, sputtering. “Mai is your ex? No one told me I was having lunch with your ex!”  Zuko hit his face with his palm. Now he knew why his uncle always said not to discuss past relationships on the first date.

“I’m sorry,” he said. “I didn’t mean to spring that on you.”

“Why wouldn’t you tell me that sooner?”Katara buried her face in her hands and groaned. Her face was once again blazing in her humiliation. No wonder Mai had seemed so cold towards her, and Ty Lee so awkward. And Azula so...eager to have them all share a meal together.

“I didn’t think it would matter,” Zuko said. “And we weren’t really talking before.  I just...I’m really, really sorry.” Katara laughed mirthlessly.

“She must hate me,” she muttered. “You both must.”

“I...I don’t hate you,” Zuko took Katara’s wrists and gently pulled her hands from her face. Katara didn’t fight him, but she was clearly distraught. Her bright smile was long gone.

“Did you...do you love her?” she asked. Zuko felt a prick of guilt. His last conversation with Mai before his betrothal was announced flashed in  his mind. He remembered the hurt in her eyes when he told her what he had decided.

“It’s...it’s complicated,” he said again. “It’s also the past. You’re my wife. We’re partners now.”

“But you loved her,” Katara gestured towards the palace where Mai was sleeping in Azula’s apartments. “And I came along and-”

“And gave up everything to make sure the world has a chance for lasting peace,” Zuko cut in earnestly. “And I made a vow to you. Maybe this isn’t the marriage either of us planned on having, but what you’ve done is incredibly brave.”  

“Well, you did it, too, “ Katara pointed out.

“You gave up your home,” Zuko said. “Your family. Your first date. I haven’t done much of anything by comparison.”

“Zuko-” Katara looked down at his hands still closed around her wrists.

“I’m going to do everything I can to be worthy of that,” Zuko promised. “You’re the most important woman in my life now. The only woman in my life.”

“But you were in love,” Katara’s eyes were so full of compassion. It fell on Zuko like a weight, and he had to turn away.

“I told you,” he murmured. “It’s complicated.” Katara’s brows knitted together in confusion. Zuko sighed.  “It’s for me to deal with, okay? It’s not your fault.”

“I-” Katara started.

“It’s not your fault,” Zuko pressed. “Say it.”

“I-it’s not my fault,” Katara repeated.

“Good.” The corner of Zuko’s mouth lifted in a half smile. Katara returned it hesitantly. Then she freed her hands from Zuko’s and wrapped her arms around herself.

“Do you mind  if we go home?” Katara asked after a moment.

“Huh?” They had only been gone about an hour and a half. Katara looked up at Zuko apologetically.

“It’s getting chilly,”  she explained. “I didn’t think to bring a sweater.”

“Oh…” Zuko couldn’t hide his disappointment.

“I’ll remember next time,” she promised.

“Of course,” Zuko said quickly. “Next time.”

They made their way back to the palace without being spotted. Zuko led Katara to a trellis near their rooms, and Katara was certain he had done this before.

“Should we be worried that security is this lax?” she questioned as Zuko helped her onto the balcony.

“I’ll talk to Uncle about it tomorrow,” Zuko promised. He looked over the balcony railing and frowned. Katara was right. With the assassination threats against them both, it should not have been quite so easy for them to sneak onto the palace grounds.

Katara opened the door into their sitting room. Zuko followed close behind and lit the sconces on the walls. Katara handed him back the mask he had loaned her.

“I had fun,” she told him. Then she hesitated a second before she stood on tip toe and gave Zuko a peck on the cheek. Zuko stared after her, too stunned to move, as she practically fled the sitting room, and shut the door to her bedroom behind her.  

Part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 , 12 ,13 , 14, 15 , 16

[myunaveragelife]

One (Billy Hargrove/OC) - Ch. 1

       The new house wasn't quite what I had been expecting. I hadn't seen any pictures of it and I hadn't asked my parents about it. I hadn't wanted anything to do with my new home until we had arrived. Now that day was finally here and there was no way for me to avoid it any longer. This was my new life. This was home now. This was the life that I had stupidly given myself. If only I had been able to control my temper and mind my business, I wouldn't have to start making myself a new life here.

       It was too late to try and go back in time. I was just going to have to get used to living here. It started with getting used to my new house. It was a cute house, two stories, which I hadn't been expecting. My home in Florida was probably just as large but it had only been one story. There were very few two-story houses in Florida. This one was large but not quite the size of my old home. It was brick-faced with some white siding while my old home had been coated with light-blue colored stucco.

       My eyes caught a small chimney at the left corner of the roof that indicated there was a fireplace inside the home. As upset as I was at having to move, the thought of having a fireplace did almost manage to put a smile on my face. I had always wanted a fireplace, but there had never been any point in having one back in Florida. It was too hot to ever use one. Being in Indiana, I imagined that it would become icy cold in the winter. I let out a deep breath. I had never liked the cold weather.

       Even at the end of summer, I could already tell that it would be freezing when the wintertime came. I sighed quietly, pulling my black leather jacket a little closer over my shoulders. I looked at the brick-faced home once again and took a deep breath. My home in Florida was fifteen hours away. There was no way for me to get back home. As my parents had already said, this was our new home, whether we liked it or not. This was my life now, I may as well try and enjoy it.

       My dad patted me gently on my right shoulder as I walked past. "Buck up, kiddo. It won't be that bad," he said. We exchanged a long look. He must have seen the doubt in my eyes as he continued speaking. "Who knows? You may have fun."

       I looked at my father and narrowed my gaze. "Fun?" I repeated, motioning down the lifeless and silent street.

       "Fun can be found in the most unlikely of places," Dad said.

       "Right," I muttered.

       Indiana appeared to be many things, but fun didn't seem to be one of them. I hadn't seen one car drive by since we had arrived on the street - and I had sat in my car longer than I would have liked to admit. There was no noise coming from any of the houses. Had I not seen some shadows in the windows, I would have thought the neighborhood was empty. There were no sounds of children laughing or teenagers chattering away; no smells of summer barbeques or splashes from pool parties. I walked up the driveway of our new home and headed toward the front door.

       The front door of our new home was painted bright red, unlike the rest of the house, which was mostly a burnt-red brick facing with some white siding on the second floor and around the windows. It looked like the typical all-American home. Now, if only there was a station wagon in front of our new home. My parents would have never dared been caught in something so suburban, though. They hated my car enough, but I had wanted it and they weren't willing to say 'no' to anything I had wanted so badly.

       "Go inside, honey," my mother called from her spot at the moving van. "We'll meet you there in a few minutes!"

       I walked up to the red door and gently pushed it open. The house was completely different than I was expecting. I had hoped some part of it would resemble my home in Florida; I wanted to see all of the pastel colors and beach themes. The home was instead typical of one someone would see in the Midwest. I was immediately greeted with a grand wooden staircase that led to the second floor. There was no furniture in the house yet, which made it seem far less homey than I hoped it would feel later.

       The walls of the home were all painted white, which made it feel like I was going to be living in an asylum. I ran my fingers gently over the wood trim on the walls as I walked through the halls. I went to the right side of the staircase first. There was a formal office with a glass door on it that I knew my father would use to do his work. Behind what would be my dad's new office was a large formal dining room that I knew we would hardly ever use. We only had formal dinners on holidays, otherwise, we would eat in the kitchen.

       To the left of the formal dining room was the kitchen. It was slightly smaller than the one we had had in our house in Florida. I knew that my mother would be upset, as she loved to cook. I knew that she would like the small nook in the corner of the kitchen that we would be able to have our casual meals at. I smiled slightly as I walked over to the table and drew back the floral curtain, letting some light into the kitchen. It was already looking a little homier. I ran my hand over the ceramic tile countertops as I slowly walked through the kitchen.

       This place was completely different than my Florida home, but as I took a deep breath, I told myself that I could get used to living here. I was positive of that. "Oh, I hope Rachel likes it here," my mother said from the foyer, likely to my father.

       "We'll see, Mom. I'm not making a choice our first day here," I called back, letting her know that I could hear her.

       My mother was smiling lovingly as she walked around the corner to come into the kitchen with me. "Honey," she chided gently.

       "Oh," I muttered dumbly. It had been a long time since I had mistaken what was said out loud for what someone was thinking. My mother was still grinning at me. At least I had done it at home. I ran my hand through my hair as I smiled weakly. "Sorry, I'm a little out of my head. I guess I need to pay a little more attention."

       "We're at home now," Mom pointed out, motioning around us. "No need until you're in school."

       If only I didn't have to go to school. I couldn't believe that I had to start over in my junior year of high school. "Speaking of school, what are the chances that you'll consider letting me homeschool myself for the next two years?" I asked.

       "Not wonderful," Dad said, joining us in the kitchen. "Honey, you need to be with other kids -"

       "Like me?" I asked angrily, arching an eyebrow.

       Both my parents' faces flushed. "Your age," my father corrected me.

       That was about as close as I could come to be with people like me. "We've seen how well that works," I muttered irritably.

       I'd done so well right up until last month. My mother smiled sadly as she walked up to my side and brushed my hair back. "Rachel, sweetheart, I know it's tough but you had a good time at your school in Florida," she argued.

       "Right up until I f -"

       "Language," Dad interrupted, knowing exactly where I was going with my last comment.

       I flushed with embarrassment. My parents put up with a lot from me but they never tolerated my sometimes severe language. "Sorry," I muttered dumbly, walking into the middle of the kitchen and motioning around. "Look, I'm sure this place isn't that bad. It's just going to take some time for me to adjust."

       "We know," Mom said. "Go on and explore a little more."

       "Okay. Where's my room?" I asked.

       "Upstairs to the left. There are two bedrooms you can pick from," Mom explained.

       "Thanks," I said.

       At least they were willing to let me pick which bedroom I wanted to sleep in. I left my parents in the kitchen as they began telling the movers where to place our belongings. I walked along the back of the house on the other side. I passed a large pantry at the edge of the kitchen and a large family room that was set a few steps into the ground. There was enough room in the far corner of the family room that would be able to house the new television my dad had wanted for years to watch football on.

       There was a laundry room on the other side of the family room and I let out a breath of relief. I knew that my parents would have me helping with laundry and I was glad to see that it wasn't down in a basement. I had always found basements a little creepy. There was a small powder room off of the laundry room and a two-car garage that I had to pass to make it back to the grand staircase. I glanced up at the chandelier that hung above me and let out another deep breath. It was a beautiful home but it didn't feel like mine.

       Holding my head as high as I could, I walked upstairs, dragging my feet along the wooden floor. I went to the right first to see what was on that side of the house. It was a large master suite that would be my parents' bedroom. I closed the door to their bedroom and turned back to the left to look at the two bedrooms that my parents had offered me. I walked into the bedroom furthest down the hall first. It was a little larger than my bedroom back in Florida, but this one had a bathroom.

       It looked nice but I wanted to see what the other one looked like first. It was very similar to the first as it had a bathroom attached as well but there was one fewer window and it was a little smaller. Not to mention that it was closer to my parents' bedroom. I shook my head. Not that one. So, I went back to the first bedroom and headed toward the window. I didn't just want the bedroom because it was larger and further away from my parents, but also because there was a trellis just outside the window.

       Judging by the appearance of the trellis, I knew that it was strong enough that I would be able to climb up and down it. I wasn't much for sneaking out in the middle of the night, but I had done it a few times before. It was also nice to have the option to get out if I wanted to and my parents didn't want me to go. It would be nice to get the chance to go on a nighttime walk or maybe a party I wanted to attend. Or, maybe even a date if all went well with the boys here. I wasn't sure what I would use it for, but I knew for a fact that this was my bedroom.

        Once I had settled on my bedroom, the first box of my things arrived in the hallway. I walked away from the window and thanked the movers, taking the box and pulling it into my room. I opened the flaps and pulled out my boombox, smiling at the sight of it. I had always loved music. I turned on Under Pressure by David Bowie, blaring the music loudly enough to be heard through the house. I grinned at what I was sure was two very annoyed looks on my parents' faces downstairs.

       Dancing around my new room, I began pulling out the rest of my things from the box. I wasn't the best packer in the world and that was evidenced by the way my things were jammed into the box. Underneath the boombox were posters of some of my favorite bands including Metallica, Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, AC/DC/ and Motley Crue. I had all of their albums somewhere in my boxes - something I was sure my parents were praying would get lost in the move. They could never stand all the racket I made.

       My parents loved music but had never been fond of my taste in it. I didn't care, I loved it. It allowed me to block out everything else in my mind as long as I could keep the volume loud. It was one of the reasons my parents had never outwardly said anything about my musical taste. I began unfolding my posters and hanging them around the room, pressing them into the same relative spots that they would have hung in back in Florida. It was a little piece of home.

       It may have been a little silly, but it made me feel like this was my home and not someplace that I had been forced into. I let out another deep breath as I continued flitting around the room, flinging my things into the relative locations they were supposed to be in. The movers came in and out as I unpacked, bringing in my bedframe, mattress, bedside tables, desk, and dressers. After I had been unpacking for nearly an hour, I opened the window near the trellis to let in some fresh air but ended up being surprised by the slight chill in the breeze.

       Mid-August had always been blazing hot in my hometown. It had been nearly a hundred degrees when we had left Florida the day before. It was currently in the low eighties in Indiana but the breeze was still a little chilly. It was harder than I had initially expected to be so far away from the life I'd set up for myself in Florida. I missed the sun and warmth on my skin. I figured that it would only be so long before the tan began to fade from my skin. I stood at the window for a moment, determined to not let my mood affect me.

       Indiana was my home now. I'd known that for weeks. I now just had to find a way to live with the change of scenery. I could find new friends to hang out with here. I had at least two years to figure out how to navigate life at a new high school. I could enjoy it. I would have time to get to know my classmates before we all left for college and the working world. It was two years here. I could manage two years, and who knew? Maybe when I was ready to go to college, I could look into one back in Florida. I could finally go home.

       Most of the next few years were spent decorating my room as box after box was dropped in by the movers. As my room began to take shape - closely reflecting the one I had left behind only thirty-six hours prior - I began to feel a little more comfortable in Hawkins. It may not have been the place I would have picked to move, but I supposed there was some kind of charm in it. The new house was nice, at least. I hung a floor-length mirror over the back of the door and kneeled as I began sticking pictures into the frame.

       Many of the pictures were of myself and my parents, but there were also a few of the friends I had left behind in Florida. Many of the pictures were taken at the beach I had lived near. It was always one of my favorite places to be. I would certainly miss the beach in land-locked Indiana. I supposed I could go to the local pool or maybe a lake if I could find one. My father had told me that there were a few lakes near Hawkins, but I hadn't seen a single one as we'd driven into the small town.

       The first genuine smile appeared on my face as I began going through the pictures of my friends; all of our silly parties and holidays spent together. There were some funny ones of trips to theme parks and ones taken of us half-asleep during late nights spent studying. I smiled at the picture on the top of the pile of my best friend, Casey Walker, and placed it near the top of the mirror. I had promised Casey when I'd seen her just before we'd left that I would call her as soon as I was settled in Hawkins.

       I placed the rest of the pictures around the frame of the mirror, trying to stagger the ones of friends and family. There was one special picture that I placed at the center of the top of the frame. It was a picture of the day my parents had adopted me back in 1970 when I was only three-years-old. I remembered nothing from my life before being adopted, but I knew how grateful I had always been for them. They were the reason I had grown up with a real family and not in an orphanage, alone, and uncared for.

       My parents were some of the loveliest people I had ever met and they were the people I cared about most in the world. Unlike many other adopted kids, I was lucky. I looked enough like my parents that I could easily pass for being their biological daughter. My mother was short with dark blonde hair while my father was tall with deep brown hair. I was short with light blonde hair. We all shared a nearly identical tan from our time spent in the Florida sun. My only real difference from my parents was my eyes.

       My father had deep brown eyes while my mother also had brown eyes; though hers were a little lighter in color. While two brown-eyed parents could have a blue-eyed child, it was rare. I didn't share the brown eyes that my parents had. My eyes were blue. They weren't just a regular blue, though. They were so light that they had been mistaken for being white in the sun. It used to freak people out when I was younger but my friends had come to love them by the time I was a teenager.

       When my parents had first adopted me they had been afraid that my eyes meant I had some kind of disease or potentially even cataracts. They had sought out medical advice from multiple doctors to see if the color was any indication that I would go blind with age, but every doctor they had seen had claimed that my eyesight was just fine. There wasn't even a need for me to wear reading glasses. They had told my parents to enjoy the fact that I had different colored eyes.

       My mother and father had never tried to hide the fact that I was adopted. They had told me it for as long as I could remember and had always promised to answer any questions I'd had about my birth parents. Back in Florida, everyone had known. My parents had informed everyone that they would be gone a few days to adopt a daughter. My parents had left on a two-day trip to pick me up from the orphanage I had lived in and come back with the three-year-old me and had immediately enrolled me in pre-school.

       My fellow students had been told from the time we were all little that I was adopted. The occasional cruel jeer had been thrown my way when I was a child, but I had always known how to take care of myself and over time, my parentage had become accepted. No one had cared that I was adopted. Now that I was new here and didn't know anyone, I wasn't sure whether or not I wanted to tell people that I was adopted. I didn't want to face the questions that were sure to be asked and I didn't want to open myself up to even more ridicule than I was sure to get as the new kid.

       There wasn't much I could tell them about my life when I was a child, after all. I had no memories of my life before I had been adopted. I couldn't remember where I had been raised or who I had been raised with. I didn't have the slightest idea of who my parents were or why they had decided to give me up. I had never been interested in knowing what my early life had been like. When I was old enough to understand, my parents had told me that my biological parents were unknown and I'd never had any further interest in getting to know who they were.

       When I was very young I had briefly wanted to know about my parents, but that desire had passed almost immediately. I had no reason to want to know what they were like. My birth parents hadn't wanted me and that was enough to tell me what I needed to know about them. I didn't even know where my parents had adopted me from. My parents had once told me that they would answer any questions that I'd had about my birth family, but I had quickly told them that I didn't want to know anything. I knew that answer had pleased them.

       The only thing my adoptive parents had told me about their lives before me, was that they had tried for years to have a baby of their own. That was all I had wanted to know - I had always been curious why I didn't have siblings. My parents had eventually realized that they were getting too old to have a baby through natural methods and if they wanted to have one while they were still young enough to enjoy raising a child, they would have to adopt one. That was where their search had begun.

       As my parents had said, they had initially searched for a newborn. When I'd asked why they hadn't settled with a newborn, they had explained that they had fallen in love with my developing personality and had instead happily adopted a toddler. It didn't make a ton of sense to me at first, but they had always teased me by saying that they were able to avoid the diaper phase because they'd adopted me in my toddler years. I had decided not to push things even further and leave it at that.

       Despite my reasonably strange early childhood, I seemed to have come out of things just fine. I had gotten good grades in my prior school and had always had a plan for my future. I was going to go to a good college and eventually I wanted to become an engineer. I had always had a brain for maths and physics. My parents had told me for as long as I could remember that I could do whatever I wanted as long as I put my mind to it. I wasn't going to let a new school in a new place change my plans. I just had to make it through two years.

       I stood from my kneeling spot at the floor-length mirror and looked around my room. Right now, it looked like a tornado had blown through it. I could start organizing things later - once my parents spotted the mess and yelled at me for it. My clothes were scattered all over the floor - which was where they normally were - and my makeup and jewelry were in a pile on my dresser. My posters were hung up along the walls at random intervals and my sheets were half hazardously slung over my bed. I chuckled. It looked like home to me.

       It was good enough for now. As long as I kept the door closed, my parents would never know what a wreck my room was. I took out the phone I used in my bedroom and plugged it into the outlet on the wall. I spun the rotary dial around to match Casey's phone number. I had been eager to speak with my best friend since leaving Florida. I just wished we were face-to-face like I was so used to. The phone rang for a few moments before I heard the receiver click with an answer.

       "Hello?" Casey's mother answered.

       "Hi, Mrs. Walker," I greeted. "It's Rachel."

       "Rachel!" Mrs. Walker greeted happily. "It's good to hear your voice, honey."

       I smiled. "Thanks."

       "How are you liking Indiana so far?" Mrs. Walker asked.

       How could I answer her without saying something nasty about the home I'd had almost no chance to get to know? "Well, it's uh, definitely different from Florida," I said awkwardly, making Mrs. Walker laugh. "It's kind of funny. It's things like the leaves changing colors. We never see that in Florida. It's a little odd not seeing any beaches too. It's a small-town vibe out here. It's nice, just not something I'm used to."

       "It must be quite the change," Mrs. Walker said.

       "Oh, it is," I said, chuckling under my breath. Indiana was unlike any place I had ever been before. "Who knows? It may be kind of fun."

       "That's the attitude to have," Mrs. Walker said. "You never know. You could meet some interesting people."

       "That's true, but no one can replace you guys," I said truthfully.

       The Walkers and the rest of my friends back in Florida meant everything to me. No matter who I met in Indiana, nothing would compare to them. "Make new friends, but keep the old," Mrs. Walker said.

       "One is silver and the other's gold," I finished.

       "Exactly. I suppose you're not calling to talk to me?" Mrs. Walker teased.

       "I always love speaking to you, Mrs. Walker," I said.

       "Just teasing you, dear. I'll grab Casey," Mrs. Walker said.

       "Thank you."

       "Tell your father to enjoy his new job and your mother to keep in touch," Mrs. Walker said. "We all miss you around here."

       "Thanks, Mrs. Walker. I will. Say hi to Mr. Walker for me, please," I said.

       "Of course, dear. Hang on a moment."

       The phone clicked as Mrs. Walker put me on hold to allow Casey to pick up the phone. I twirled my hair around my finger as I waited. I wished she was close enough that I could hop into my car and head over to her house. Casey used to be a three-minute drive from my house. Now it was well over a fifteen-hour-drive to go visit her. I supposed that I could always head back to Florida for a while next summer, but that was a year away. I was going to have to figure out another way to keep my best friend close for the next ten months.

       Suddenly, there was another click on the other end of the line. "Rachel!" Casey yelled.

       "Hey, Case," I greeted happily.

       "So, tell me everything about Indiana!" Casey chirped.

       That was Casey's personality. She could manage to be perky about anything. Even her best friend moving away. "What's to tell?" I asked, chuckling under my breath. "We only got here a few hours ago and I've spent all of my time unpacking since. I've got most of my stuff out now I've just got to put everything away."

       Casey laughed. I had always had a messy room, something she'd always mercilessly teased me for. "What's it like there?" Casey asked.

       "Weird," I answered honestly. "It's so quiet on the streets. I mean, I saw a few kids riding around on bikes but I haven't seen much other activity." I had briefly seen four young boys riding through the street as I had unpacked. "My parents told me there's a pretty big downtown area. Maybe I'll have to check that out later."

       "Is there a mall?" Casey asked.

       I snorted with laughter. It figured that a mall would be her main concern. "Typical that your first question would be about a mall," I told her, making Casey laugh. "Nope. It's all little mom-and-pop shops."

       "Gross," Casey replied.

       Casey had always liked being able to walk through the malls in the city. She would have died the moment she'd seen the sleepy town of Hawkins. "What the hell am I supposed to do here, Case?" I groaned.

       "Get through the next two years and then come home," Casey replied.

       I smiled. "It's a deal."

       "So, when's the first day of school in Indiana?" Casey asked.

       "A week from today."

       "You don't sound too excited."

       Normally, we loved the first day of school. It was a chance to show off new outfits and catch up on the gossip over the summer. In a town full of people I didn't know, I would have no chance to enjoy the start-of-the-school-year festivities. I would just be the new kid to stare at. "Not really. I mean, I'm already two years into high school. I didn't want to start over halfway through high school. Everyone's already going to have friends and their groups," I said irritably.

       "It sucks that your dad got a job there," Casey moaned.

       She would miss me as much as I would miss her. It just sucked that I had to pretend that my dad's new job offer was the real reason we had moved. "Yeah, it does," I muttered quietly. "But we'll stay in touch, right?"

       "Always," Casey replied immediately. "And, hey, we'll see each other again one day! You'll have to come and visit."

       "Definitely. Maybe I can convince my parents to take a road trip back to Florida next summer," I said.

       "That'd be great. We all already miss you," Casey said.

       "I miss you guys too," I muttered.

       It was going to be such a strange next two years without the friends I had become so accustomed to. "Look on the bright side, all the guys in Florida are surfers and beach bums. I mean, they're hot but you have a chance to meet all new ones!" Casey chirped. I laughed under my breath. There was the one positive, I supposed. "Maybe there'll be some hot rocker dude. We've got none of those in Florida."

       "Hot and an asshole, I'd bet," I replied.

       "Who cares? You're missing the most important part; they would be hot," Casey said.

       I laughed again. "Good to know that you've still got your main focus," I told her, making us both laugh. "I don't know. A hot rocker dude in Indiana? Do they even have those in Indiana?"

       "They have to have something there!" Casey yelled.

       "They don't even have a mall here, Case," I groaned.

       "I'll send you something. Just because you have to live in the middle of nowhere doesn't mean you have to look like it," Casey promised.

       I chuckled under my breath. "Think I'll stick out like a sore thumb here?" I asked.

       "Probably. There weren't even that many rocker chicks in Florida," Casey pointed out. She had always been dressed like she was ready for a trip to the beach. As she'd always said, I consistently looked like I was on my way to a concert. "I doubt there are many in Indiana."

       "Maybe it'll give me a good niche," I reasoned.

       "The boys there will be putty in your hands in no time," Casey teased, making us both laugh again. We were silent for a moment before she continued. "I can't believe you had to move."

       "Me either. Especially here. Hawkins, Indiana. What the hell does someone do in a town like this?" I huffed, motioning out the window even though she couldn't see me. "It doesn't look like there is anything to do here."

       "I'm sure you could find someone to do," Casey said pointedly.

       We burst out into a fit of giggles. "Casey!" I yelled.

       "Rachel!" Casey mocked.

       The two of us had always told each other everything about our boyfriends and interests. Casey was the first person I had told when I had been intimate with my old boyfriend, Jason, for the first time. Casey was the one I Had done to when Jason and I had broken up a few months later. Casey was the one I had gone to when I was embarrassed for hooking up with school jerk Brian Blake at a Halloween party last year in an attempt to get over Jason. The two of us had shared everything since we were little.

       We'd had a lot of fun over the years. We had always been a package deal. We would always go on double-dates and tease each other for which boys we'd wanted. We were known to be some of the funniest people in my old high school. I couldn't believe that I had to start all over at a new school. I would have to make new friends and learn how to interact with the people in Hawkins. They weren't people I had known most of my life. I just had to remind myself that this was a chance to make new friends and maybe even a new boyfriend.

       If there was a chance I found a guy I liked in Hawkins, I knew that Casey was going to be the first person to know. She would kill me if I didn't tell her first. Of course, until I saw what the teenage guys in Hawkins looked like, I was going to be a little doubtful that there was any chance I would meet a guy I liked here. I smiled to myself, twirling the phone cord around in my hand. If there was one positive about this situation, it was that at least I would get to meet some new guys. Who knew? Maybe there would be a few interesting people.

       "Come on, there's got to be someone interesting in town," Casey said, breaking me out of my reverie.

       "We'll see. I haven't met anyone here yet. I'll keep you updated," I said.

       "Oh, and send pictures!" Casey chirped.

       "How creepy do you think I am?" I gasped.

       "Do I have to remind you of New Year's this year?" Casey shot back.

       The two of us immediately dissolved into fits of laughter. New Year had been one of the last big parties I had gone to and we had both quickly found guys we had liked. There had been a polaroid camera that had been passed through the party and too many pictures had been taken - both of the two of us and of our entertaining times with the boys. We had chased our friends around the yard for an hour drunkenly trying to break the camera to make sure those pictures didn't get out. It had taken a while but we'd been successful.

       "No!" I yelled, the stupid memory bringing a smile to my face. "No, you don't."

       "Rachel!" Dad yelled from downstairs.

       "Hang on, Case," I told my friend. "Yeah?"

       "Can you go grab the mail?" he asked.

       "Sure!" I yelled back. "I've got to go."

       "Hey, go explore your new little hick town and call me back in a few days with the scoop," Casey told me. I laughed at her blunt phrasing. "I want to hear all about the hot guys!"

       "Yeah, yeah, whatever. I'll let you know," I muttered. "Tell me all about your progress with James!"

       "Oh, I've got a plan," Casey said.

       "We both know your plans never work out," I said, laughing.

       "This one will, I promise," Casey said hopefully.

       "Sure. Love you, Case," I said.

       "Love you too, Rachel," Casey replied.

       We hung up our phones and I placed the set back onto my bedside table, rising to my feet. James was one of my former classmates and a longtime crush of Casey's. He had been a year ahead of us and the two of them had been flirting for years. I had made Casey promise to finally make her move once I had left. Without me around, Casey would need something else to entertain herself with. Casey would be able to have James now, but she would also want me to have someone new.

       At least I would be able to keep in touch with Casey over the phone. I smiled at the many pictures of the two of us as I left my new bedroom for the first time since I'd walked in. There were already boxes full of pictures and other decorations lining the hallway. My parents were wasting no time trying to make our new house feel like home. I walked out of the hallway, down the stairs, and into the foyer before heading out the front door and down the driveway toward the mailbox.

       For the first time since arriving in Indiana, I noticed that some neighbors were around. They were peeking out from their windows to look at the new arrivals. I rolled my eyes. I knew exactly what they were thinking. I knew that they wanted to know what my family was doing here, having come out of the woodwork with no obvious reason to have uprooted our lives to Hawkins, Indiana. I was tempted to turn around and go back inside and forget about the mail when I saw a young girl about my age staring at me.

       It appeared that she was also trying to get her family's mail. She was four doors down in a house a little smaller than my new one. I stared at the girl for a moment. She seemed to be the epitome of the perfect high school girl. She had shoulder-length curly mousy-brown hair and wore a buttoned-up collared shirt with a cardigan over it. Her khaki pants were high-waisted and belted tightly. Her deep blue eyes were locked on me with no clear intention to look away. I gave the girl a vague smile. It was how my parents wished I would dress.

       The girl's eyes scanned over me as I looked down at my outfit. My blonde hair trailed down my back in gentle waves with small braids thread into the sides of my temples. I was acutely aware of how low-cut my Guns N' Roses t-shirt was, as I had torn multiple holes across the chest after I'd bought it. My leather jacket laid over my shoulders and my jeans clung to my thighs. My parents hated my sense of style but said nothing, as they knew it was a losing battle. The girl's face didn't express disgust. Instead, she looked curious at my appearance.

       I knew that the girl was interested in me. "Hello," I greeted, yelling across the lawns.

       "Oh, hi!" the girl greeted, jumping as she realized that I had been looking at her as closely as she had been looking at me. "You must be the new neighbor."

       I threw my head back to the moving truck with a slight smile on my face. "Must be," I said.

       "I'm Nancy. Nancy Wheeler."

       The girl had a bright smile on her face as she crossed the lawns and finally walked up in front of me. I smiled at Nancy and extended my hand to shake hers. "Rachel Winters. Nice to meet you," I told her.

       Nancy smiled at me, her gaze moving to the license plate on my car. "You moved from Florida?" Nancy asked.

       "Yeah. Born and raised there," I answered.

       It wasn't the entire truth, as I knew that wasn't where my parents had adopted me from, but the entire truth wasn't going to come out in our first conversation. "Did you like it in Florida?" Nancy asked.

       "Oh, I loved it there," I said happily. "I'm hoping to move back one day."

       "Why did you move here?" Nancy asked.

       "For a breath of fresh air, I suppose," I replied. We exchanged a small smile. Nancy didn't try to push, clearly sensing that I wasn't willing to talk about my past anymore. "Are you from Hawkins?"

       "Yes. I've lived here my entire life," Nancy answered.

       "Do you like it here?" I asked her.

       Nancy shuffled on her feet for a moment. "Well, it's an okay place to live," she answered. I chuckled at her; Nancy was trying to be nice to her hometown. It was evident that she didn't like it here at all. "The people here are nice and it's got a homey feel to it."

       "It does. I've never lived in a place where you can walk downtown and ride your bikes to your friend's houses," I said.

       "Really?" Nancy asked, surprised.

       "Yeah. Florida's a little spread out. It took at least a five-minute car ride to get anywhere," I said honestly. Casey's house was the closest thing to me. The mall had been twenty minutes away and the school was fifteen minutes away. Most of the people who had lived in my old neighborhood were retirees. I had been the only teenager who had lived there. "There's a real hometown feel to this place."

       Nancy smiled at me. "Well, I hope you like it here."

       "Thank you, Nancy." I reached into my jacket pocket and pulled out my pack of cigarettes and lighter, striking it. My parents had tried to get me to quit but had eventually agreed to allow me to smoke as long as it wasn't in the house. I was about to light the cigarette when I saw the look on Nancy's face. "Do you mind?" I asked.

       "No, not at all," Nancy said, looking a little embarrassed that I had spotted the repulsion on her face. "It's your property."

       "It's a disgusting habit, I know, but I can't seem to kick it," I admitted, lighting the cigarette and taking a long drag.

       As I blew the smoke out upward into the air and away from Nancy, I felt my jittering nerves calm slightly. "Are you trying to quit?" Nancy asked curiously.

       "I've tried to quit before but it's never worked out. My best friend from back in Florida hated that I smoked," I admitted. Casey had always refused to hang around me while I was smoking. "I don't know, it's always helped calm my nerves."

       "Don't be nervous. Hawkins isn't that bad. It's a quiet town and most of the people here are nice," Nancy said.

       "Most of the people," I repeated, chuckling as I took another drag.

       Nancy laughed. "You know, there are always the typical high school assholes."

       My eyebrow arched. I wasn't expecting Nancy to curse the way she had. She struck me as the angelic type. "Oh, yeah. What would the world be without those?" I replied, grinning.

       Nancy smiled at me. "Are you still in school?" she asked.

       "Yes," I answered. "I'm going into my junior year at Hawkins High School."

       "Oh, me too!" Nancy chirped excitedly.

       At least I would know one person when I got to Hawkins High School next Monday. "Nice to know that I won't be surrounded by all strangers on my first day," I told her.

       Nancy chuckled. "You know if you want, you're more than welcome to hang around with me."

       It was nice to know that Nancy would be willing to hang out around me when I was sure she had her friends she wanted to be with. But if she was willing, I would happily take her up on her offer. I would feel like a loser if I had to sit alone all day. "That'd be nice. I can't be the cliché new-kid-sitting-alone-at-the-lunch-table on my first day," I said.

       Nancy smiled again. I figured that she had plenty of acquaintances but not many close friends. "You can always ride with us," Nancy offered. I arched my eyebrow. Who did 'we' mean? "My boyfriend, Steve, he's going to pick me up on Monday morning and we'll drive over together."

       Of course. I figured the pretty girl would be dating someone already. I wondered if he was the popular jock like I figured he was. "I appreciate that, but I'll drive myself. I've got a bit of a control issue," I said honestly. I didn't like driving with anyone. Nancy smiled at me again. "I'd be happy to meet you there though."

       "Deal," Nancy said.

       "How long have you and Steve been together?" I asked curiously.

       She didn't get the twinkle in her eyes that most girls did when they were thinking about their boyfriends. "Well, we've kind of been on-and-off over the last year or so. There has been a lot of ups and downs," Nancy said, chuckling awkwardly.

       "But you two are okay now?" I asked curiously.

       "We're okay now," Nancy confirmed.

       Her thoughts told a different story. "You don't look all that excited about him," I reasoned. The two of us stared at each other for a moment. I realized very quickly that just because I knew Nancy wasn't happy with Steve didn't mean that I should say anything about it. "I'm sorry, that's none of my business."

       "No, it's okay," Nancy said, waving off my concern that I had gotten a little too familiar with her. "It's kind of nice to have another girl to talk to."

       "Yeah, I know how you feel. I had to leave my best friend behind in Florida," I said.

       "I get it. I lost my best friend Barb about nine months ago," Nancy replied.

       My face instantly lost the tan it normally had. Here I was, acting like it was the end of the world that I had been forced to move away from my best friend when Nancy had lost her best friend. I tried to think for a moment that Nancy meant that Barb had simply moved to another place, but the somber look on her face told me that what I had initially thought was correct. Nancy's best friend had died. Suddenly, I felt like a horrible monster for having been so dramatic about leaving Casey behind.

       "Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that, Nancy," I said dumbly.

       Nancy shook her head, the tears building in her tear ducts. "It's - It's okay. I've had a lot of time to get used to it," Nancy said, her tear-filled voice breaking slightly. "It's just -"

       "Hard to say goodbye?" I offered, knowing that she was having a hard time speaking. Nancy nodded. "I get it. God, I feel like a dick now for being upset at having to move away from my best friend."

       Nancy smiled at my phrasing. "No, don't feel bad," she said, waving off my concern. "It sucks to lose a best friend, whether it's because you moved away or because something terrible happened to them. You still have every right to be upset about your friend."

       "So do you," I said, sensing that Nancy hadn't let people know just how upset she was.

       The two of us smiled at each other again. "Is it just you and your parents?" she asked, probably trying to change the subject.

       "Yeah. Just the three of us. What about you?" I asked curiously.

       Nancy laughed, shaking her head. "Oh, no. It's my parents, my little brother Mike, my little sister Holly, and me."

       I smiled. "Big family."

       "Have you ever wanted siblings?" Nancy asked.

       My face flushed slightly as I began rubbing at my wrist subconsciously. I quickly forced my wrist back down to my side. "Sometimes. I guess it could be fun to have someone to hang out with, but on the other hand, I'm sure we would fight like cats and dogs," I said honestly.

       "It's both of those things. I love my brother, but I could kill him sometimes," Nancy said honestly.

       We laughed at each other again. "Rachel!" my mother shouted from the front door.

       "Coming, Mom!" I yelled to her, turning back to Nancy. "I guess that's my cue. I'll see you around, Nancy. It was nice meeting you."

       "You, too, Rachel." I turned away to walk off before being stopped by Nancy's voice. "If you want a chance to get to know Hawkins, I'd be happy to show you around," Nancy offered. I hummed under my breath. I hadn't considered wandering around town yet. I'd just wanted to get through the rest of high school. Nancy seemed to sense my hesitance to say yes. "There's still a week until school starts."

       A lot could happen in a week. Maybe Nancy could at least be a good friend to me while I didn't have Casey. "You know what? That sounds good," I told her honestly.

       "How about Thursday? I'll have to keep an eye on Mike and his friends Thursday anyway," Nancy offered.

       "Sounds like a plan. Bye, Nancy. I'll see you on Thursday," I greeted.

       "Bye, Rachel," Nancy said.

       We exchanged another smile and waved each other off as we turned back to our respective homes. I took the cigarette out of my mouth and tossed it onto the ground, stamping out the end. I felt a little bit better knowing that I had managed to make one friend. I wouldn't be completely alone when the year began. I headed back through the front door, the mail clutched in my hands as I tossed it on the counter. My parents were both hanging near the window. I knew that they had been watching me and were now curious about Nancy.

       "Who was that?" Dad asked curiously.

       "One of our neighbors; Nancy Wheeler," I explained, glaring at them. I should have known they would be watching me. "She's in my year. She offered to show me around Hawkins this week before school starts."

       "See?" Dad said, slinging an arm over my shoulder. "Living in Hawkins could be more fun than you think. You're already making friends."

       "One friend, Dad," I said, pushing his arm off of me.

       "After only being here for a few hours? You're not doing too bad, kid," he countered.

       "How about dinner?" Mom offered, sensing that I still wasn't thrilled with being in Hawkins.

       "Sure," Dad and I said together.

       "Set the table?" Dad asked me.

       "Yeah," I responded.

       Mom began cooking as I grabbed the plates and placemats, moving them into their spots around the table. I gathered the utensils from their spots still in the boxes and tossed them onto the table. My parents were laughing and joking in the kitchen as they began cooking the chicken - the only meal Dad had brought with us. I took a deep breath as I watched them with a smile. Maybe living in Hawkins wouldn't be that bad. Maybe this could be a fresh start for me. Maybe this place could feel like a second home.

       Once I had finished setting the table, I stood at the window of our new home and smiled, looking out into the already fallen yellow and orange leaves. I'd never had the chance to enjoy the fall season before. Back in Florida, the weather always felt like we were living in the middle of summer. I could only remember a few days that the weather had fallen under thirty degrees. It was going to be a strange adjustment living in Hawkins, Indiana, but we had to be here. It was all we could do to protect our family.

       The fallen leaves sat uninterrupted in our driveway and the street beyond. I stared at them, allowing myself a brief moment to wish I was back in Florida, laying on the beach with my friends, not sitting in Hawkins, Indiana, wondering what the first day of the new school year would bring. I was going to be the new kid, something I had never been before. I wasn't looking forward to that. I was three-years-old when I was adopted and had grown up with those people. I had never been the new kid before. Everyone had always known me.

       This first day of school was going to be different. I was going to have to deal with the teenagers at Hawkins High School who wanted to know all about me. I would have to come up with a boring story about why I had moved from Florida to the boring town of Hawkins. I would have to explain so many things. The only interruption from my depressing thoughts was the deafening roaring of a car engine from which Cum on Feel the Noize by Quiet Riot was blaring over the radio. I smiled as I tried to find the car.

       "What the hell is that?" Dad asked, walking up to the window.

       He was standing over my shoulder as I leaned up onto my toes to look down the street. I spotted the car but didn't get much of a chance to linger on it. The vehicle was gone before I got much of a chance to look at it. It only narrowly avoided the movers, who jumped back with screams. I had to resist a smile I tried to fight back a laugh. The car was a 1979 Chevrolet Camaro, the same car I had. The only difference was that this car was deep blue and my Camaro was jet black. I didn't see the driver though I did spot a woman in the passenger seat.

       "Gosh, he needs to slow down," Mom commented, glancing up from her spot in the kitchen. "He could kill someone driving like that."

       "See, Dad? Looks like I'm not the only one who likes that car," I teased, throwing my head back to where the car had shot down the road.

       Dad frowned as he stares at the car, continuing to rocket down the road. "What if I bought you a new -?"

       "No," I interrupted him.

       It didn't matter how much he hated my car, I was never giving my baby up. "You know, honey, it doesn't make me feel better knowing that you share any of the same tastes as whoever that car belongs to," Dad said bitterly.

       I smiled, my blue eyes glittering. "Relax, Dad, I'm sure that's the only similarity we share," I teased, rubbing my hand over my right wrist again.

A/N: In canon Stranger Things, Billy and Max show up a few days before Halloween and most of the season takes place over the course of about a week. Now, that's not enough time to introduce a character and set up dynamics in a story to me, so I'm going to go ahead and pretend that the Hargrove's actually arrived in Hawkins at the start of the year, giving me about another two-and-a-half months of character interaction to play with. Just a quick head's up! I know the dates aren't accurate and that was intentional.

[fanfictionaries]

Love and Academia Ch. 3 - Dream Homes and Disloyalty

Pairing: AU Professor!Bucky x OFC

Warnings: Swearing, smut, NSFW/18+ only, mentions of death/violence/suicide

Author’s note: We get a nice little look into Bucky’s perspective this week. Also because this is an AU and I am the God on the worlds I create, Steve has a big family and he’s from the midwest. I just want him to be a happy little farm boy! 

And as always, I do not currently have a beta reader so please excuse any larger issues. it’s just little ol’ me!

***

Bucky’s feet hit the ground. Left, right, left, right. He was on the final mile of his morning run. Usually by this time he’d be well into his runner’s high, feeling great as he finished off his fifth mile, but today it was like each step made him weaker and slower. His legs cut through the air like a knife cutting through frozen butter. He thought about stopping, just giving up and calling that day’s run short, but a yip at his side and the brush of a cold nose on his calf eliminated the idea immediately. Trixie, his border collie, would be an energetic wreck all day if she didn’t get her full five miles. So, he pushed through, finally slowing to a walk when he’d fully completed his run.

“There, ya happy?” Bucky asked, looking down at his dog. Trixie looked up at her owner briefly, tail wagging, tongue hanging from her mouth, and looking as pleased as ever as she padded beside him. He held her leash loosely in his hand as Trixie led the way towards their new house. Their new home.

It was a red brick Victorian style home nestled on a quiet back street. It’s deep green door, white trim, and beautiful garden of roses and irises held a certain charm. The garden had been the main selling point for him and Diane. Diane had been so taken by the white picket fence in the front yard, with the ivy-colored trellis framing the walkway to the front door. She insisted they put in an offer straight away, even though they weren’t planning on moving for another year. Bucky had called her crazy, saying that it was insane for them to pay both rent in Brooklyn and a mortgage in Idaho. But she had reasoned that with both of their jobs and their minor expenses they could easily afford it and it was a small price to pay for their dream home.

“You mean your dream home?” Bucky laughed.

“It’s not your dream home?” Diane asked, slightly crestfallen at the realization.

“Your dream is my dream,” Bucky said, and it was true. His dream was her and therefore whatever her dream was, was his as well.

But now as he treaded across the loose boards on the front porch to unlock the door that stuck, he cursed her for making this their dream. Opening the door and crossing the threshold, he unhooked Trixie’s leash and placed his keys on the table next to the front door. Trixie, apparently wiped from their run, laid on her bed across the living room and promptly fell asleep. Bucky reached for the remote and turned on the TV, skimming through the channels until he got the local news, and then settled into the rest of his workout. It was always the same: sit ups, pushups, pull ups, repeat. The same simple routine helping to bring him clarity. Something he needed a lot of these days.

The decision to leave Brooklyn had been his idea. His contract with NYU was coming to an end, and he just kept feeling like he needed a change. He’d called Brooklyn home his entire life. Despite his short time away for undergrad at Boston University, he’d been born in Brooklyn, grown up in the streets of Brooklyn with his brothers, gotten his PhD at NYU, gotten his first teaching position there, met Diane there. But he was growing restless of the same old story. Diane, thankfully, agreed. She, being from Montana, enjoyed her time on the east side of the country, but was ready to be closer to home.

Bucky had just finished his last set when his phone buzzed on the coffee table. Not even thinking, he reached for it and pressed the green call button.

“So, he finally answers,” Steve boomed from the other end. Bucky sighed inwardly; he’d been avoiding Steve all week since they’d last seen each other at the bar.

“Hey man, what’s up?”

“Oh, you know, I was just wondering if I could actually see my best friend and catch up with him finally. Or will I have to wait another six years?”

“Alright, alright, message received jerk. Why don’t we grab coffee this morning? I’m headed into the office a little later and I have time before then,” Bucky said, feeling guilty for not making it up to Steve for completely bailing on their guys night last week. Steve laughed and agreed, throwing out a time and place before ending the call.

Bucky showered before dressing in a pair of jeans and white t-shirt. He brushed his wet hair and contemplated trimming his beard before saying ‘fuck it’ and walking out of the bathroom. Making his way down the stairs, he was halfway down when a step gave under his foot. With a loud crack, the wood split in two and he was ankle deep in pain and frustration.

“Jesus fucking Christ!”

Bucky pulled his foot from the hole and continued walking down the stairs gingerly. Pulling up his pant leg, he assessed that there was minimal damage, and proceeded to grab his wallet, keys, and phone from the coffee table. He crouched down by Trixie’s bed and gave her a scratch behind the ear.

“I’ll be back later girl,” Bucky said. Trixie nuzzled his palm with her nose before giving it a kiss and laying her head back down on her bed.

Fifteen minutes later and Bucky was seated at a table in a small coffee shop, ice coffee in hand, with Steve sat across from him.

“It’s good to see you man. Really good,” Steve said, taking a sip of his coffee and leaning back in his seat.

“I know, it really is. Tell me again why you moved all the way out here after college?” Bucky asked, rubbing a bead of condensation away from the side of his cup.

“Oh, you know me. Boston was fun but after four years I was done with the big city. It’s not home, but most of my family isn’t even in Minnesota anymore anyways.”

“And you’re liking it here so far?”

“Oh, I love it. My parents are here, so is my sister Mary. Mike’s still in Bloomington, but him and the wife have been talking about moving down here too. You know us Rogers—can’t stay apart for too long. We always end up finding our way back together,” Steve chuckled.

“Yea, you are a dysfunctional bunch, aren’t you,” Bucky teased.

“Oh please, I’ve met the Barnes family several times. How many times has your mom called you?”

“Today or in the last week?” Bucky laughed, thinking about how his mom had called him at least three times a day for the past month he had been in Idaho.

“Mary still seeing that finance guy?” Bucky asked, trying to remember the small details Steve had dropped about his family over the years through their phone calls.

“Oh Doug? God no. No, he turned out to be a real piece of shit…why? You interested?” Steve grinned, raising an eyebrow at Bucky.

“You seriously trying to set me up with your sister man?”

“Hey—" Steve held his hands up in defense “—I’m just saying. She’s always had a bit of a thing for you.”

“Well, that’s certainly news to me, but I’m not exactly single Steve,” Bucky sighed.

“I thought you said Diane said—”

“Yea, I know what she said but it doesn’t really mean I agree with it. That was her idea, not mine.”

“So, the other night at the bar?”

“Was a mistake. Besides, nothing really happened.”

Steve looked skeptical, “She seemed pretty upset right before she left. You sure nothing really happened?”

“What are you implying?”

“Nothing. I’m just worried about you.”

There was a long silence as they sat there. Bucky refusing to look at Steve. Steve refusing to look away from Bucky. Bucky had felt guilty that night with Emily. He truly had. Diane’s words had run through his head that night over and over again. He thought that if he had kept it impersonal, maybe he could do it. With Diane not there, he was lonely and god, he had been wildly attracted to Emily. Probably more than he liked to admit. But no matter what Diane said, when it came down to it, it still felt like a betrayal.

“Well, at least something good came out of that night,” Bucky stated, steering the conversation in another direction.

“Oh yea? What?”

“I’m assuming you went home with her friend, yea?”

At the mention of Natasha, Steve’s face went bright red and he coughed into his hand, “We uh, no we didn’t. She wanted to but…”

“You said no?” Bucky asked shocked.

“Yea, well you know me. I’m a bit old fashioned. I want to take a girl out on an actual date before we—”

“Fuck each other’s brains out?”

“Something like that—" Steve smirked into his coffee cup, “—I’m taking her out for dinner tomorrow actually.”

Bucky smiled at Steve, his best friend looking bashful but excited, “Gonna’ show her the ol’ Steve Rogers’ charm?”

“I’m just hoping I don’t make a fool of myself. It’s been a while since I went out on a date. You know, what with me and Peggie splitting and she’s…very confident. She definitely knows what she wants,” Steve admitted.

“Oh, you’re for sure going to make a fool of yourself, but I don’t think that’ll hurt your chances.”

Bucky laughed as Steve reached across the table and tried to punch him in the arm.

“Jerk,” Steve said, smiling the whole time. They talked for a while longer, Bucky asking about Steve’s family and Steve doing the same. They talked about mutual friends and what they were up to. About an hour had passed when Steve asked about Bucky’s new job.

“So, when do you start your new gig?”

“This coming Monday. I was actually going to stop by today and take care of paperwork, maybe check out my new office,” Bucky said, draining the last of his coffee.

“Well, I won’t keep you from that. I should probably get going. I’ve got to head to the gym and then get home and get some stuff done.”

They stood and said their goodbyes, promising to hang out again soon before exiting the coffee shop and getting in their cars. It was a short drive from there to the university. The red brick and lush green trees reminding Bucky of home. However, stepping out of his truck, the dry heat was a pleasant reminder that this place was definitely not humid, sticky Brooklyn in August. Locking his car behind him in the visitor’s parking lot, he walked casually towards the Life Science’s building. He admired the landscaping as he walked, always finding humor in how every university seemed to try and make their campus as pretty as possible right before school started. A nicer grounds always did well for visiting prospective students, parents dropping off their children for their first year, and returning students who wanted a reason to stay.

The Life Science’s building was definitely older than some of the other buildings on campus, but that didn’t both him too much. He climbed the stairs, old linoleum steps peeling and cracking as he double checked the office number on his phone. Room 439. As he neared the room tucked back into a corner of the floor, he began to hear music. Gradually it increased in volume, a punky beat from a band that he recognized. It became clear that the music was coming from room 439 when he entered through the front door. Looking around he saw an older lab, boxes piled high and lab equipment strewn about haphazardly. The music was coming from the office within the lab, this time though, he could hear a voice singing along to it. It was loud, raspy, and overall offkey. Maybe he had the wrong room number? He walked towards the office, hoping to ask whoever was in there for some help finding the right place. Inside was a young woman dressed in a pair of baggy jeans and t-shirt. He watched in amusement as she danced to the music, obviously under the impression that she was alone as her hips wiggled and head bopped side to side.

“Um, excuse me. I think this is my office,” he called over the music, feeling bad that he was probably going to embarrass the girl. She jumped at his voice and when she whipped around the ground fell out from underneath him.

“What the hell are you doing here?” he asked. Anger, for some reason, being his initial reaction to seeing Emily standing in what was supposed to be his office. Emily, a woman who had told him that she was a bartender. Emily, a woman he had almost hooked up with and then snubbed very dickishly at a bar about a week ago.

She seemed pretty upset right before she left. Steve’s words rang in his mind.

[aliceflutez]

@duskthicketbonepicker​

Here you go! I’m hiding this under a cut because, well

Soot:

               Mercenary queen with way too much attitude and a triple coal? I love her already tbh. Plus, what lesbian doesn’t love antiquing? She kinda just seems like every protagonist I’d love way too much.

 Kizmetto:

                 A+ dragonsona, definitely has this adorable look of “scattered but ridiculously friendly” to her. She kind of reminds me of an old friend of mine in all the best ways. I’d let her decorate my house for sure, although I’d have to tell her to stick with jasmine since I’m not a fan of sandalwood. Some amazing art in her bio too!

 Lotus:

               So, my impression from just looking at her was geek, and then I read her bio and realized that she’s more of a socialite with her life 1000x more together than mine will be for years! I love her colour scheme, and all the little touches in her bio that make her really come to life. She just seems like she’s one of those people who it would be calming to even just be near. I love her.

 Tolarian:

                 Tolarian just looked like a friend right from the start and oh boy was I right. I just want to sit with her somewhere in the resort and relax and chat about whatever she felt like that day. I think she’d have the same sort of vibe as my best friend. I’ve gotta ask, was she intended to be kind of autistic coded? The friend I mentioned has Asperger’s, and so many of her quirks seems similar to him.

 Itzel:

                 Itzel seems like she’d be the sort of person who would be coming through my work ordering eight shots of espresso three times a day along with her boss’ coffee. Always weighed down with at least one massive bag and a list of things to get done before she could stop to think. I love the feeling of ambition and energy I get from her though? I’m guessing her relationship with Xoco is mostly strained because of her sister’s… religious choices?

 Caius:

                 Caius just seems like he should be giving me a quest already. I’ve got such a clear image of him from just his bio though, I love it! Plus he’s got such gorgeous colours and an amazing outfit to go with it… I’d definitely spend a day chatting up that mysterious old guy on the beach. I think I’d learn a lot.

 Rhonda:

               Okay so I’m in love with this adorable lifeguard already? Her and Ketut seem like such a great couple, especially since you go into how much they’ve grown as a pair. I’m not generally into reading romance stories but oh my god I want to read about those two. Plus, she just seems like such a kind person in her own way? It just makes me happy that she’s happy.

 Ketut:

                 The other half of the happy couple! And he’s a fellow bisexual who’s a little useless with his feelings, I love him already! He’s also another one who just falls into a personality type that I love the second I read about them. Totally unrelated to most of my thoughts on him, I have a feeling at some point he’s tried to make a drink to match Rhonda’s scales, but given up since he can’t make it half as beautiful as her.

 Aria:

               I remember seeing Aria when you first hatched her, of my gosh she’s so pretty gened up with  that accent! I’m weak for skydancer girls even on the worst of days, but she just looks so delicately beautiful I want to protect her with my life? I can see her just lounging in the shade on the beach, watching some hatchlings splash and play in the surf and just loving life.

 Jaya:

                 Right off the bat I just got the vibe of “Queen” from Jaya, but I couldn’t be more happy that I was a little bit off. The area where I live is a semi-desert, so the feeling of a warm summer wind is one that I’ve known all my life. All the dangling trinkets in her outfit are such a cute touch, I’m guessing it’s kind of a sensory thing with all the sounds of them moving in the wind when she flies?

 Noir:

                 OH my gosh his backstory makes me want to cry. He definitely didn’t deserve to lose his charge, and yet he hasn’t let it make him bitter. I just want him to find a nice, loving home and settle down. He deserves it.

Aegis:

                 I have a vague memory of seeing him in posts of yours before since the second I read his name I thought “Oh you little shit.” I hadn’t read his backstory before though, and that would certainly explain some of why he might be a bit of a hooligan! I think he and my random progen Karmanor would probably get along really well, but get into way too much trouble.

 Angelo:

                 My first thought with him was “What a soft boy” and then I read the first line of his bio and burst out laughing. I just want to sit with him in his garden by the lavender and relax? Also I hope that mysterious tundra gal is his sister, but if she hurts him I might die.

 Rinoa:

                 Oh sweet, she IS his sister. And a ranger too! She seems pretty mellow, although that might just be the feeling I get from anyone who likes the smell of pine. It reminds me of hiking in the summers with my family, there’s not a more relaxing smell in the world.

 Xoco:

                 Back to the little sister! I love her aesthetic, it’s an unexpected mix but it works so well. It adds so much depth to her character that she isn’t just your stereo typical vicious “A sacrifice for my gods” type. I like her more than I expected to when I heard about her rocky relationship with her sister?

 Quill:

               I had such a clear feeling of who he was from the first three paragraphs of his bio, oh my god! I’d love to be able to write like that. Plus, I’ve always got a soft spot for calligraphers since I dabble in it a bit myself. Do you think Lotus plays at his exhibitions?

 Trellis:

                 The last sister! I love how each of them has such a clearly different personality from their apparel without sacrificing the colour scheme that makes it so clear that they’re related. It’s cute that she’s so shy with Dahlia, do they end up together eventually? Also, does she ever braid some of her flowers into Xoco’s mane? I’d kind of like to think that’s where she gets the roses from.

 Karazh:

                 Oooh, progen time! He seems so nice and relaxed! I’m not much of a tea person myself, but I’d definitely give his a shot. I like that he has almost the same feeling to him as Caius, but almost… gentler?

 Almasi:

                 And progen #2! I love how her personality is a bit of a foil to Karazh’s. It’d definitely take a lot of mutual respect for that relationship to be work well. Her bio seems to hint that she did something in the past that it felt like she needed to be punished for, was that how you switched from your old lore clan to the new one?

 Apollo:

                 Oh my gosh, I love Apollo’s aesthetic, but that boy is just so damn bitter. Like, bought an entire hot topic and writes terrible poems bitter. I hope he gets a happy ending, but he’d better change that damn attitude to deserve it.

 Zanthe:

                 I love the concept behind her backstory! I’m not generally a huge fan of pearlcatchers, but the kelpie mane looks great on her and really adds to that half-imp look. For her singing, is there a person you have in mind that she might sound like?

 Ylva:

               Ylva is tough as nails, and I’m not talking physically! I’m guessing she was a bit of a therapeutic character for you, and I’m so glad you let her have a happy ending! She kind of reminds me of my girl Nemesis when it comes to looks, although Nemesis is shade-touched.

 Dock:

               To be honest, all I can think to say about Dock is that he’s so completely dumb and I love him. Also he looks great with that skin! Seems like a nice buoy overall

 Raine:

                 She almost gives off a kind of burlesque/jazz vibe? I love the mystique and charm in the way you write her, it makes me want to go hear her sing. I can see her singing Don’t Know Why (maybe not the original version by Nora Jones though)

 Pjeper:

                 Pjeper just seems like such a chaotic little imp and I love him. So much energy and nothing to do with it, poor guy. Hopefully he gets a job soon.

 Dahlia:

                 She’s such a stubborn, gentle mess and I love her? I’m always 1000000% here for ace nerds, and she just seems so sweet with her tea and her cats. I think she’d get along well with my progen Khione, although Khione’s research mostly focuses on magic.

 Apex:

                 I love the fact that in spite of being an antisocial person Apex still does an incredibly important job at the resort! It kind of surprises me that she’d ever leave, even for important research. Is the resort her charge or does she not have one yet?

  Toxicity:

                 Ooh, the radioactive version of my boy Visha! He’s definitely quite the character. I can’t decide if I love him or hate him, and I think that’s exactly the perfect place for him to be as a character. I wonder how a lab coat would look layered under his jacket, but I doubt he’d ever bother to wear one.

 Nylon:

                 She gives off the creepiest vibe and I love it. Toxicity may be love/hate, but she’s definitely more love-to-hate. I feel super bad for their kid tbh.

 Baleful:

                 Oh my gosh I want to rescue this potentially sweet child. I’m sure one of the dragons in my clan could make her some special sunglasses and noise cancelling headphones so she could go out and enjoy the world. Visha’s used to leaking toxins, I’m sure he could help with the spines.

 Jargon:

                 I love this clumsy formerly little nerd? I mean, he might not have much in the way of social skills but by golly he knows what he likes. I feel kinda bad for Raine, Zanthe, and Khayyat though. Hopefully he gets the hang of dealing with things like that.

 Glyph:

                 It hurts me a little that Glyph isn’t an Arcane dragon but I love her anyways? I bet she can do a lot just by humming with a bogsneak throat. Her art is so cute too, I love how innocent and sweet she looks in it!

 Arjun:

                 At least he’s honest about being a jerk? Honestly though, all I can think about is which of the girls in my clan could kick his ass in the most humiliating way possible because pretty much all of them would hate him.

 Fafnir:

                 Oh my gosh she’s so beautiful! Too bad she’s stuck with Arjun. I think my girl Nerio would literally love her to pieces. Her accent is amazing too, I might have to see if I can hunt down a copy.

 Kataki:

                 Honestly from the feeling I get of her, that chibi in the top of her bio sums up Kataki perfectly. I feel like she’s always diving headfirst into literally everything in her life, and it’s such a beautiful mess. I doubt Fafnir always appreciates it though xD

 Rosyth:

                 He seems like such a friendly, quirky guy? If he ever stopped by my clan he’d get along great with Nyx! I love that in spite of being an astronomer he’s still so social and charismatic, it’s a neat little detail to him.

 Rug:

                 Ooh, another little twerp!! I can see some of his personality really suiting a ridgeback, but he’s so perfect as a mirror. Another boy Karmanor shouldn’t be allowed within a few hundred kilometers of or they’d somehow cause even more trouble than they normally would.

 Fatalis:

                 Her art looks so cute oh my gosh! I love the concept behind her revival, and the detail with the wings. Hopefully she settles into modern Sornieth soon, she deserves it.

 Xiack:

                 I just knew he was going to be a bit of a dick just looking at him. Awesome fandragon though, and I love all the little details about his radio station! (I’d probably listen to it)

 Prompto

                 I love all his pets oh my gosh! I bet his room is stuffed full of photos of them all. I have a feeling he’s a fandragon for something I don’t know, but even without knowing he’s a really neat dragon. Based on his looks and the theoretical photos of his pets it wouldn’t surprise me if he’s made a ton of “memes”  (or whatever Sornieth’s equivalent might be) based on them

 Melon:

                 Oh my gosh that drink sounds delicious. And I’m so glad melon is as sweet as her drink! I bet she and Ketut get along great!

 Pina:

                 Tiny dragon with a mouthful of a name there! She seems like such a sweet kid, I’m glad she’s found a great older sister! And that art is so sweet,  it’s a whole story in one photo.

 Levia:

                 Oh my gosh she’s beautiful! I have a feeling there’s some great big myth about what might’ve happened when someone ticked her off that she just laughs at. Her accent is incredible though, I might need a copy for Artemis.

 Thayne:

                 Baby sis sea monster! She’s just so sweet and ethereal. I love that choice of gif for her bio too, bioluminescent algae is neat stuff.

 Voltaic:

                 Oh my gosh poor boy! He did so much for Mercury… I don’t see him in your lair so I’m guessing nothing there ended well at all. I hope he gets over it…

 Dune:

                 Oh my gosh that boy is so impossibly lucky! I bet his honey gets used in a ton of wines around the resort. And with all of Trellis’s flowers around they’d taste amazing!

 Max:

                 Her bio really makes me want to finally play life is strange. I love the layout on it too, it was incredibly easy to keep reading through. Overall she’s a really great fandragon!

 Chloe:

                 She’s so beautifully blue oh my gosh! Her outfit matches the character so well too.  A great match for your Max.

 Rachel:

                 Her outfit is simple but I like it? The fire is a nice touch from what I’ve read in her bio too, plus is brings out her tert so well! Maybe the teardrop jade earrings would match the ones she wears in the gifs?

 Ixalan:

                 I love how humble Ixalan is about his skills! He seems like an incredible person to work with/under, I’d love to have a mentor like that someday myself. That’s some awesome pixel art in his bio too, it’s a great touch.

 Swampthing:

                 Oh my gosh she’s the most catlike griffin I’ve heard about in a long time. Hopefully the hatchlings stop treating her so badly eventually, she’s just trying her best. Also, I feel the pain of that scatter history, that’s why I stopped keeping them.

 Aquila:

                 I just looked at him and gasped tbh. That accent looks so gorgeous with his colours! He may not have much lore, but damn that boy is a warrior.

 Aerie:

                 Oh my gosh she’s so striking! If she’s a little arrogant at times she’s earned it in my opinion. Who’s her main contact at the resort? I can see so many funny communication errors happening with her and a few of the dragons xD

 Escha:

                 Almost as striking as Aerie, but so much gloomier, geez. He’s like the worst traits of a vulture and a magpie all rolled up into one. I’d say he’s quite the character telling stories around the fire, but he probably avoids them like the plague.

 Odary:

                 She may not have lore yet but oh my gosh she’s so elegant! I could totally see her being some type of priestess or dancer. Either way she’s amazing.

 Horus:

                 Well this boy is just a recipe for disaster. Amazing outfit and accent though, I love how the light plays against the dark.

 Gil:

               Oh jeez Gil don’t let Tox and Nylon make the next Frankenstein. I love his colours though, that greyscale with the hints of blue and red is incredible. I never realized powerpack added those extra horns until I saw it on him. I think my brain is broken now.

 Matoya:

                 Such a gorgeous geode oh my gosh! Now if only all her grandkids weren’t so darn ungrateful… At least she has Jaya and Angelo around. I didn’t realize her name was from final fantasy until I clicked on the theme song link, but I forgot how much I love the soundtrack for those games! (Never played them, just love orchestral/classical music)

 Eirin:

                 Jeez, what a nerd xD He’s such a sweet boy though, and I love that idea of the comet being used as a lens/projector! Maybe since he’s from wind he could even have enough magic to stir up a fog and do some 3d?

 Able:

                 Such a cute messy boy! I love that autumn aesthetic, and the flower nymph is a perfect match!

[xfirespritex]

Mistletoe and Eggnog

Prompt: may I request a Finn Balor one shot where Y/N goes to see her cousin Karl during the Christmas Raw event and she bumps into Finn , her long time crush? The feelings after so long come rushing back and the two just finally get together? Maybe some angsty smut between them?

Requested by @lclb13

–

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@wweburnitdown

Mistletoe and Eggnog

--

 When I got off my plane in Ohio I did my best to not run over the old lady in front of me as we exited the plane. As soon as we entered the airport properly and we could all fan out of the gate I rushed ahead, easily spotting who I was looking for.

“Karl!” I screeched, running forward.

My cousin, Karl, dropped the sign with my name on it, well my nickname “Baby Brat” on it and opened his arms to me as I launched into him. He laughed as he hugged me to him.

“Hey, Brat,” he said, laughing.

Ignoring the nickname I squeezed him tighter. Being away from your favorite cousin for over a year was the worst. Especially when you were an only child.

We grabbed my bag and went out to the car being driven by Luke who screeched a greeting at me as I climbed into the SUV.

“Hey there, big man,” I said, leaning forward from the back seat into the front and kissing Luke’s cheek.

“What’s up, kid?”

We headed off to the hotel where I checked in and dropped my bags off, my room down the hall from Karl’s, and then back in the car we went to the arena. As I walked backstage I was greeted by several of the superstars I knew. As I pulled out of my hug with Alexa I turned and walked straight into the sturdy build of Finn Balor.

“Well good to see you to, Y/N!” he laughed, catching me as I bounced off of him and smiling at me before he pulled me into a hug.  I laughed and hugged him back, smiling against his shoulder. I saw Karl down the hall making kissy faces at me and I raised one hand to flip him off. My cousin, the jerk that he is, knew I had a crush on his best friend and yet took endless pleasure in teasing me about it.

“How long are ya here for?” Finn asked.

“A couple days, until the 26th.”

“So we get ya for Christmas, huh? How’d you get your parents to allow that?”

I laughed. “They’re on a cruise and didn’t want me to spend the day alone so they figured letting me visit Karl was fair.”

Finn smiled. “So you’re our Christmas present this year,” he said, the smile quirking into a slight smirk.

I smirked back. “You want me as a present?” I teased, feeling a little braver than usual.

Finn smirked. “Maybe, would make for one hell of a Christmas.”

I laughed and turned to go but Finn caught my arm. “You’ll be at the Christmas party then?” he asked.

“Party?”

“Yeah, it’ll be at Dolph’s house. Tonight after the show.”

I smiled, having forgotten that we were in Dolph’s home state and that he had a house here. “Yeah, if Karl and the guys are going I guess I am too. Package deal.”

“Good to know,” Finn said, smiling before he turned to go. I watched him walk away but immediately rolled my eyes as I felt Karl’s arm fall around my shoulder.

“Oh cousin of mine,” Karl said, dragging out his words.

“Yes?”

“You’ve still got it bad for Finn, huh?” he teased.

I shrugged, effectively forcing his arm from my shoulders too. Karl smirked. “You should go for it, Y/N.”

I laughed. “Are you seriously trying to set me and Finn up?”

Karl laughed. “Well, why shouldn’t I? My best friend and my cousin? It’s one way to get him in the family officially.”

“You’re sick, you know that?” I said.

Karl smirked. “Hey, you’ve had a crush on him forever, is it so bad that I approve?”

I sighed and looked at Karl whose smirk had faded to a genuine smile.

“Seriously, he’s a great guy and a big step up from where you’ve been. Just, if he makes a move, give him a fair shot, okay?”

“If he makes a move?” I laughed. “The second Finn makes a move I’ll be in too much shock to reject him.”

Karl laughed. “The pair of you are hopeless.”

--

Later that night I found myself walking into Dolph’s house, Karl and Luke at my side. We’d skyped each man’s wife on the way to the party and, aside from wishing them a Merry Christmas I’d promised to keep them in line. Luke had laughed at the thought of me controlling him but one glare from his wife and he quieted down pretty quick.

I giggled at the memory of the big man’s lack of bluster after that as we parted ways, Karl giving me a kiss on the cheek before he bee lined for the bar.

I tugged on the hem of my dress, regretting my choice for the hundredth time that night but then a low whistle from behind me caught my ear. I turned and forced a smile on my face at the sight of Dolph, dressed in dark jeans and a dark blazer, a red shirt underneath.

“Damn, Y/N, if I’d known this was how you’d come dressed to the party I’d have insisted you get here earlier.”

“Why is that?” I asked.

“Eye candy,” Dolph said, a joke in his tone. He winked and I relaxed. A player in the past he was known to flirt but I knew his words had no true intent from the wink and tone of his voice. He laughed as he saw me visibly relax.

“Damn, why so tense?”

“Oh, it’s nothing I just…”

“Just hoping someone will flirt for real tonight, huh?” Dolph said, smirking.

I shrugged and winked at him. He laughed and leaned in, placing a hand on my arm and his lips close to my ear. “If you’re hoping to at least steal a kiss tonight I have a very strict mistletoe rule in my house. Out back, under the trellis is the only bit of mistletoe around. Everyone knows my rule for tonight, maybe go for a walk with…whoever the lucky guy is, see if you can make it work that way.” He stepped back and winked playfully and I rolled my eyes. Of course Dolph would insist on having at least one sprig of mistletoe somewhere in the party. I, for one, was glad it wasn’t under the entryway.

“I’ll keep it in mind,” I said, laughing. Dolph smiled.

“Hope you have fun, Merry Christmas, Y/N.”

“Thanks Dolph, Merry Christmas to you too.”

As he walked away from me I was surprised to see his space quickly filled by non-other than Finn.

“And what, was Mr. Ziggler so intent on whisperin’ in ya ear?” he said, smiling at me.

“Oh, nothing,” I said, smiling.

“Hmm, nothing?” Finn said, a small smile on his face.

“Nothing important, anyway.”

Finn smiled and then looked me over from head to toe, his bright blue eyes freezing me for a moment.

“Who’d ya get all dressed up for, then?”

“You’re full of questions tonight, Mr. Balor,” I teased.

“And you’re dodging all of ‘em.”

“You want to know who I dressed up for?” I said, smirking at him.

“Yeah.”

“Then I’ll give you five guesses.”

Finn’s smile grew wider. “Game on, then.” I smiled back before walking away, finding my own way to the bar.

Karl smirked at me as I approached and handed me a mixed drink. “What was that all about?”

“Finn asked who I dressed up for. I told him he had five guesses.”

Karl laughed. “Oh this is gonna be good, I gotta tell Luke. We have found our entertainment for tonight.” With that my cousin took off to find his friend and I made my way to the women present. They greeted me enthusiastically and Bailey kept her arm around me as we all talked. When she slipped away to refresh her drink I jumped when a different set of arms came around my waist.

“Is it for Cesaro?” Finn whispered in my ear. I felt my skin heat up at his closeness but I shook my head. I turned my head slightly to look at him.

“That’s one guess down.”

“Don’t I get any hints?” he asked.

I laughed. “Any hint I give would seriously give it away.”

“Yeah? So someone I know well?”

I turned to face him fully and felt a shiver go through me as he kept his arms around me and we stayed close together.

“Yeah, someone you know well.”

“So some lucky bastard gets you to dress up like this? You sure I’m going to approve of this guy? What about Karl?”

I laughed loudly at the irony of the conversation. “Yes, you and Karl approve of him.”

Finn smirked. “That narrows it down.”

I rolled my eyes and spun carefully back to the group of women, pleased as Finn kept his arms around me and rested his head on his shoulder.

I could practically hear the wheels in his head spinning. “And he’s single, yeah? Not going all homewrecker, are ya?”

I laughed. “You know me better than that.”

Finn sighed, his breath tickling my ear. “Dash?”

I shook my head.

Fifteen minutes later.

“Elias.”

I shook my head.

“TJ?”

I shook my head.

Finn sighed and reached around me, taking my hand and tugging me after him as he turned, walking outside to Dolph’s gorgeously lit backyard. My eyes fell to the trellis and the single sprig of mistletoe and I laughed to myself, nerves building up inside of me.

I hadn’t figured out what I would say if he guessed correctly. And if he ran out of guesses, would I have the courage to use Dolph’s rule to my advantage?

Sighing I bit my lower lip as Finn turned to face me. “Okay, so the list of men that are single and Karl approved is very, very short. I mean, the only other guys I know aren’t even here tonight so…” he paused.

“It is a guy, right?” he asked.

I laughed so hard I was doubled over, my hands on my knees. Finn cracked a smile at my reaction but then walked over to me and took my hand in his to get my attention. I let out one last chuckle before straightening up to look at him.

“And the person is here, right?” he asked.

“Yeah, he’s here,” I said.

Finn took a breath and his hand drifted up from mine to my cheek, cupping it gently.

“Given what I know… that only leaves on person,” he said, his voice quiet.

I stared at him. “Then guess.”

“Not here,” Finn whispered.

“Where then?”

“I’d suggest under the mistletoe but if I’m correct that’s not the best location,” he said.

I quirked my head to the side. “What do you mean?”

“Because if I’m correct then what I’m thinking will happen won’t be something fit for Dolph’s back yard.”

I stared at him. “Are you going to guess or not?”

Finn’s hand on my cheek slid back into my hair and he tugged me closer to him. “Me?”

I smiled at him and, finally feeling brave, wrapped my arms around his neck. “I can’t believe you almost missed the obvious choice.”

“Obvious, yeah?” he said, his voice slightly lower now as his eyes flicked down to my lips and back to my eyes.

“Yeah, you said it yourself earlier. I’m your Christmas present.”

Finn’s lips crashed to mine and I whimpered into the kiss as he pulled me closer to him, his arms going around me and holding me to him tightly. I gripped him to me as the kiss deepened and felt a thrill go through me at the groan that came from him.

When the kiss broke Finn pressed his head to mine. “You know, in my family we open presents first thing in the morning,” he whispered, his lips ghosting over mine. “It’s nearly tomorrow already,” he said as his hands slid down over my hips.

“So what are you proposing?” I said, feeling my skin tingle at the thoughts running through my mind.

“We’ve got an entire day of me enjoying my present to make up for. So, I think I need to get you back to the hotel and unwrap my present immediately.”

“Well, please, don’t let me hold up tradition any longer.”

[lena-in-a-red-dress]

The only thing I’d change:

During the explosion at the dedication, Lena just poofed. Vanished. So how about this: When Sam March goes to move the steel trellis off of Ruby, she realizes someone is already on the other side, her hand on Ruby’s shoulder…

“Everything is going to be okay!” Lena Luthor’s voice pitches high over the sounds of chaos. “We’re going to get you out from under there, okay sweetie?”

Ruby is too out of her mind with fear to respond, but Lena turns and grips the steel pipe with both hands. Her gaze lifts, and Sam sees the recognition flit across her face. “Samantha?”

“Lena.”

Ruby is sobbing as the ground continues to quake. Sam can hear the thundering of her own heart, of Ruby’s, the screams of the crowd dulling her thoughts. “Lena, please…”

Lena shakes herself, and sets her weight. “Towards me on three,” she calls. Sam grips the trellis, her gaze locked on Ruby. “One, two, three!”

Sam pushes. Lena pulls. With all their might, they struggle to move the latticework, but it doesn’t budge. The concrete gives too much resistance, and the trellis is too heavy to lift. Then it happens.

Another explosion rocks the square, carving another fissure in the rock under their feet. Ruby screams, and Sam’s focus narrows to nothing else. Heartbeat roaring in her ears, she shoves again and again. Metal groans and gives under her hands, and with a single, desperate shove, she pushes the trellis off and away.

The unexpected give causes Lena to stumble, but then Ruby is in Sam’s arms and she can barely see the stunned horror in Lena’s eyes through the tears in her own. But she registers the shock in her old classmate, in the wide-eyed gaze that bounces between the trellis and Sam. In a distant, far-off way Sam understands. She shouldn’t have been able to move it. But she had.

Before Sam can consider the implications, before she can thank Lena, two men in suits appear next to Lena. They help the CEO to her feet, and when Lena doesn’t protest the manhandling, Sam realizes they must be security. They shuffle her away, before Sam can say another word.

—

It’s not until days later that Sam gets a chance to properly thank Lena. At least, that’s what she tells herself when she makes an appointment to see Lena. It has nothing to do with moving the trellis, nothing to do with the bewilderment shifting into acute realization on Lena’s face, which has been playing on a loop since it happened. 

“Samantha!” Lena greets her as she escorts her previous appointment from her office and sees Sam standing there awkwardly. “Please come in. It’s so good to see you!”

Lena is somehow exactly as Sam remembers, and also completely different. The warm welcome is not what Sam expects, and it throws her just enough to let Lena sweep her into an exchange of pleasantries that doesn’t feel false and a brief summary the events that have led her here to National City.

“And how is your… daughter?” Lena asks, with enough question that Sam can tell she’s trying not to assume. Sam nods a confirmation. Ruby is hers. Ruby is all she has.

“She’s fine. Barely a scratch.” Sam swallows. “That’s why I’m here, actually. Look, I don’t know what happened, but…”

“Don’t worry about your secret.” Lena’s voice is low, but without malice. Deference maybe, discretion, but not judgement. Sam stares at her. “It’s not mine to tell.”

“Thanks,” Sam returns, but she still doesn’t really understand what she means. She came here to explain it was a fluke, some kind of maternal adrenaline rush, and that she’d appreciate it if Lena didn’t turn it into a thing. But it wasn’t a secret. Not really.

Lena’s desk phone beeps. “Miss Luthor, your 10:30 is here.”

“Thank you, Jess.” Lena turns to Sam. “I’m sorry I don’t have more time to chat. I’d love to hear more about what you’ve been up to. It’s just there’s been quite a bit of an upheaval, and the interviewing has been eating up all of my free time.”

“I imagine everyone would want an interview after the dedication. I’m surprised CatCo hasn’t published an article yet. It’s been days–” Sam trails off when Lena spreads into a brilliant smile.

“Oh, no, no. I’m hiring an assistant. I recently made a significant acquisition, and my workload has since tripled. I’ve been told the only way to survive is to hire a permanent assistant.”

Sam stomach flutters oddly. She hasn’t found work yet, and reconnecting with Lena has been far more pleasant than she anticipated. But when she hesitantly puts out feelers for what Lena is looking for, Lena’s expression falters for the first time.

“Oh. If you’re interested…” Sam braces herself for the polite but firm rebuff, only to hear Lena sigh. “Honestly, Sam, I’d hire you in a heartbeat. Even if you don’t have a lick of experience, I remember from school that you’re quick on your feet and honest to a fault and you probably wouldn’t let me intimidate you…”

Sam tilted her head. “But…”

“But what happened at the dedication isn’t exactly out of the ordinary. Working for me could be dangerous: its why I’ve put off having a full time assistant so long. And with your daughter… I couldn’t ask that of you.”

Sam fishes for a counterargument, but Lena suddenly shifts track. “But of course I wouldn’t not hire you because you’re a parent, I just mean–” She huffed distractedly, turning to scribble a note on a post-it. “Here. If you want to give it some thought, and decide it’s something you’re interested in, call this number. This is the starting figure, and the position would offer full benefits, including 4 weeks annual vacation and stipends for childcare.”

Sam almost swallows her tongue when she sees the salary. She manages to catch her breath, and nods just as Jess knocks on the door. “Thanks, Lena.”

The smile Lena gives her brightens the entire room. “It was good to see you, Sam. And whatever you decide, it’d be great to stay in touch. Dinner next week?”

“Absolutely,” Sam responds, though the Lena she remembers used to be happier burying her nose in a book during meal times than making conversation. “I’ll check with Jess to find a time.”

“Perfect. Thanks for stopping by. It really was great to see you.”

—

“Mom.” Ruby flopped into a chair at the kitchen island as Sam cooked dinner. “Lena Luthor offered you a job. Lena Luthor.”

“Yes, Rubes, she did. She was just being polite, I’m sure.”

Ruby wasn’t fazed. She rolled her eyes, a near constant expression these days. “She doesn’t have time to be polite. She meant it. You have to take it!”

Sam turned off the heat and turned to face her daughter. “It’s not that simple honey. There’s a lot of things to consider.”

“Like what? You haven’t had a real job in over a month. We might not need the money right now, but you’re not happy just sitting around here.”

God, she had her father’s insight, and her own outspoken nature. A deadly combination for a parent trying to skirt the issue. “Like you,” Sam sighed, giving up the pretense. “You’re my world right now, and working with Lena would mean long hours. Weekends too, probably. And…”

“And what?”

“And it could be dangerous. This weekend wasn’t the first time an event has been threatened while Lena was there. With her family– it’s not her fault,” Sam said quickly when she saw Ruby start to bristle. “But I can’t risk leaving you alone. Not now.”

Ruby was quiet for a long moment. Long enough for Sam to serve dinner and set a plate in front of her, which Ruby picked at as she gathered her thoughts.

“This weekend scared me,” Ruby said finally, lifting her gaze to meet Sam’s. “But Lena Luthor ran towards the danger to help me. So did you. If you had run away, I don’t know what would have happened.”

“I would never have let that happen,” Sam said, reaching for her daughter’s hand. For once, Ruby didn’t pull away. “Never.”

“Then you can’t run away from the danger now, either.” When Ruby looked at her, it was like looking at her husband again, five years on. Her heart stuttered, even as Ruby tightened her fingers around her hand. “You could help Lena Luthor change the world.”

Sam blinked back tears, pursing her lips as she gave her daughter a smile. “When did you get so wise, huh?”

Ruby smirked. “Since Thursday when my guidance counselor started talking about college. Just think: if you get the job, I would have a better chance of getting an internship at L-Corp. The admissions office at Harvard would flip: what safety school?”

“Well then that settles it, I absolutely cannot take the job, because you are going to stay here forever and ever and– ack!”

Ruby pelted her with a piece of broccoli, and as the food fight commenced, Sam let laughter erase her doubts. For now.

—

Hours later, Sam pressed the phone to her ear, acutely aware of Ruby not watching from where she sat reading from the couch. The phone rang, and rang, and then–

“Lena Luthor.”

Sam blinked. She’d expected the HR department, or Jess’ after hours line– not Lena’s direct number. “Lena, hi. It’s Sam. Sam March?”

“Oh! Sam–” Lena sighed on the other end of the line. “You probably don’t use Samantha any more, and I used it this morning–”

“No, no, it’s fine really. It caught on in college and I never went back, but really–” Ruby cleared her throat, pointedly turning the page of her book. “Right. Sorry. Anyway, I was just calling, about the matter we discussed this morning?”

“Oh,” Lena’s voice dimmed. “That’s okay. It was a long shot, anyway…”

“I’d like to take it,” Sam interjected quickly. Lena paused.

“Really?”

“Really. Your new number one fan says I’d be an idiot not to go for it.” Ruby’s eyes widened as she frantically started gesturing to cut the conversation short.

Lena chuckled across the line. “Maybe I should offer her a job too.” There was a rustling of paper before Lena continued. “I’ve got an opening at 9am tomorrow. How about you come in for a quick interview, and we can go over some of the details?”

Sam sighed, releasing nervous tension she didn’t even know she had. “That’d be great. See you then.”

When she ended the call, Ruby was there in an instant, throwing her arms around her neck. “This is going to be so amazing, Mom.”

“Yeah,” Sam nodded, returning the hug full force. “Yeah, I think it will.”

[just-tinkabelle]

Come,Night

CS Lieutenant Duckling

Summary: Princess Emma loves waking past the Jewel of the Realm just to catch a glimpse of Lieutenant Killian Jones. One day while out by the docks she is told news that upsets her and makes a decision that changes her relationship with Killian forever.

Rating: S because this chapter got smutty.

Part 7 of 8 (?)

A/N: Thank you so much to the wonderful Becky for being my beta even though I haven’t written in forever. You are the best. I would be lost without you.I know I say this all the time but it’s true. Only you know how to read my two thoughts at once moments when I write. For those still reading this fic, if anyone still is, here is chapter 7. I know I said 6 was the final chapter of the fic but things changed in my mind for it. I never intended to go past 6 but oh well. I hope you have enjoy the chapter and how I have continued it. I think chapter 8 might be the end but who knows. Thank you for reading it. It means the world to me.

Chapter 1,2,3, 4 ,5 and 6 plus the prequel can be found on FF.net with 7.

Now on AO3.

The air around Emma was thick and suffocating, there appeared to be a mist slowly engulfing her feet and rising up around her. Opening her mouth Emma tried to call out to see if anyone was there but she knew right away she was alone. Looking around in hopes of finding a door or a person dim lights suddenly flickered all around her as they fought to stay on. Like light breezes from the wind, Emma was hit by words said in a whisper.

"Love it's the lark."

"I promise to return with your suitor in one piece Princess Emma."

"I was scared you would die."

Slowly an image came to form under the flickering lights. It was her and Killian but what seemed from a different lifetime. Their clothing seemed like they had come from a BBC production of a Jane Austen novel. Emma smiled as she caught of glimpse of Killian in what appeared to be a Naval uniform and herself in a simple muslin nightgown. They were in a room at night and she was happy to see him even though her cheeks were tear stained. Killian's forehead was pressed against hers. Emma could see his lips moving but not the words. Tip toeing over she watched the beautiful scene play out as it started to fade. She caught Killian's last words "True love lives through death."

"Especially the one with the stone balcony"

On the opposite side of Emma another image appeared it was of a garden she had dreamt of many times before. Once again she saw herself standing there with, Neal. He had the same disgusting sly grin and arrogant demeanor that she knew all too well. Emma ran as she watched her body twitch in disgust as he touched her, trying to imprint his fingerprints in her skin but by the time she reached them, they were gone.

"It's a cinquefoil"

Emma touched the small silver pendant that hung from neck as the danced by her.  For as long as she could remember, she had worn the pendant but never knew, or had asked where it came from.

"I heard there was to be a ravaging."

"Emma"

"Killian"

The image of two bodies tangled in sheets appeared before her. Emma could hear their moans and pleas to the other. Not knowing whether to close her eyes or move closer she stood still and watched. There was something familiar about that moment. The more she watched the more she realized it was her and Killian. Suddenly, a wave of emotion hit her as she knew in that moment what it felt like to be with Killian even though she never had.

"I love you"

"I love you"

Not wanting to experience anymore Emma ran through the darkness and the mist. Desperately she needed to find a way out. The images came at her faster. She saw her parents in royal dress, Ruby transforming into a werewolf, Killian and his brother Liam in Naval uniforms, Neal aimlessly talking to her as he vied for her affection and worst of all herself. Multiple images of her life formed as she ran past. Crying and broken when Neal spoke to her, scared as she watched Killian leave her room and happiness as she saw the two of them asleep under her sheets. Emma couldn't take it any longer and collapsed to the ground. The words "As you Wish" blanketing over her as they repeated themselves but they were not strong enough to protect her.

"Let me put it on you."

Through the mist Emma could see the Swan Charm necklace hanging from Neal's hand, but they were back in the garden. The background was different but the necklace was the same. Emma remembered it clearly since she had placed it in a box on top of her dresser. How was this all possible?

"He is a pirate in a military uniform.......dead mother.........fugitive father........a brother who begged your father to allow him into the navy as a teenager...... He's nothing compared to me and you being a smart girl would always choose what's best for her kingdom..... I hope you are just as passionate in other activities...... Remember how she took pity on you one night because from now on the only name Emma will be calling out is mine....Make no mistake you will be mine."

"STOP IT" Emma screamed as the cruel words bombarded her. Every last word was in Neal's voice.

"Emma" A different voice called to her.

"Killian?" Abruptly Emma got up from the ground and looked around hoping that he was close by.

"Emma" It called to her again.

"Killian, where are you? I can hear you but can't see you?" Believing the voice was in front of her Emma ran towards it.

"Emma" It seemed to be getting closer.

"I'm almost there. Just wait for me." Emma yelled back as she could see the blue of Killian's eyes in the darkness. She was getting closer to him. Killian's hand rose from the mist and extended towards Emma. His fingertips inched toward her. "I can reach you Killian." Emma's fingertips reached out to grab his own. "Almost there."

"Emma" Killian called out as the world Emma was in seemed to crumble around her.

"NO!" She shouted pushing harder to reach him. "KILLIAN!"

Emma shot up in bed as her parents opened the door to her room. It was still dark only moonlight lighting the room. Cool air had filled her room but Emma was dripping with sweat, and strands of hair clung to her face. Her mother pushed the hair out of the way and grabbed her cheeks to make her look in her eyes, but it was of no use. Emma stared at the window and watched the curtains dance. Every fiber of her being hated those curtains because they reminded her of something and now the dream was making her want to rip them down and burn them.

"Emma look at me" Mary Margaret breathed out with panic in her voice.

"Emma please look at your mother. You had another nightmare." David said as he sat on the bed trying to help as best as he could.

"I'm sorry." Emma whispered out as she snapped from her trance like state.

"You have nothing to be sorry for." Mary Margaret pulled her daughter into a hug. "It was another nightmare."

"Emma why were you calling out for Killian?" Her father asked with concern. "Did he hurt you because..."

"Dad no." Emma broke from her mother's hug and looked directly at her father. "It was probably because of something in the nightmare." She wanted so much to tell them everything she saw, but they would think she was crazy. "I don't really remember it, but why else would I call for him."

"I think the stress of school and college is getting to you. Maybe a visit to Dr. Hopper would be good for you." Her mother suggested as she tucked Emma's loose strands of hair behind her ears.

"I don't need to see Dr. Hopper. It's just a little stress." Emma attempted to reassure her parents. "I just need some sleep and I'll be fine."

"But Emma..."

"Mary Margaret let's let her go back to sleep" David said as he got up and grabbed his wife's hand. "We love you and we'll see you in the morning." He kissed the top his daughter’s head and with his wife in toe left the room.

Emma laid back down and pulled the covers up trying to find sleep again but it was impossible. The dreams, now nightmares, were coming more frequently. She was unable to stop or escape them, and what frightened her the most about them was the familiarity of the images she saw. More and more, the strange, foreign moments of her dream were beginning to feel more like real memories that she’d only forgotten. Knowing that sleep was her enemy Emma got out of bed and walked to her window. The view from her room was the best in the house. Emma could see the ocean and the docks clearly. The scent of sea salt filled her room on the nights that she kept her window open, which was most nights. She loved the scent as it comforted her and reminded her of Killian. Moving her line of sight to the tiny house by the docks that Killian and his brother Liam lived in, she wondered if Killian was awake. Emma wondered if she consumed his thoughts, or if he craved to feel her skin like she did his. Taking deep breathes Emma was hit by a sudden urge to see Killian. Quickly, she turned from the window and grabbed jeans and a t-shirt from the basket of clothing she needed to fold. She doubted Killian would mind seeing her in ducky pj’s but she knew she had to change.

"Where the hell are my keys?" Emma whispered as she searched frantically around her room. "Actually" Remembering the trellis her father had just put on the side of the house for her mother's roses Emma gave up the search for her keys. "Please don't let me kill myself climbing this thing." Emma recited as she climbed out the window and down the trellis.

With a thud Emma's sneakers hit the ground. Before making her way to Killian's, she looked around to make sure her parents hadn't heard her and that there were no  late drunks stumbling down her street after a night at the Rabbit Hole who might catch her. In the clear Emma climbed over the tiny white fence and made her way to Killian's house. The streets were quiet and the traffic lights blinked yellow as she briskly walked down them. Storybrooke was eerily quiet, almost if a fairy tale curse had hit the town and she was the only one left. As she neared Neal's house Emma looked up at his room window wanting to make sure that for some odd reason he wasn't standing there waiting to catch her. There appeared to be no movement but a creepy feeling of being watched fell upon her. Emma looked closer at the room’s window but no one was there. Feeling uneasy Emma picked up her pace from a brisk walk to a sprint. The faster she ran the harder it was to shake the feeling that someone had been watching her from the Gold house window. She tried to convince herself it was just the fear of being caught and having to explain where she was going, but deep down she knew that was not the cause of her fear.

Finally reaching Killian's house Emma stopped for a moment to catch her breath but it was pointless. Being there had caused her heart to race and become breathless for a new reason. Taking a deep breath Emma walked to the side of the house and to Killian's window. To her surprise it was open. When she had last seen it from her bedroom window it was shut. Silently she climbed through and into the dark room. A small of amount of moonlight had filled the room but only enough to make out shapes. Unsure of what she was really doing, Emma stood there, half tempted to climb back out the window. While she was contemplating her next move, a hand reached out for her. Any normal person would have screamed or at least jerked their hand away, but not Emma. Familiar with the touch of the callous fingers and the sensation it created on her skin, Emma grabbed on the familiar hand as it pulled her in.

"Shouldn't I be the one climbing through your window?" Killian whispered as he wrapped his arms around her.

"That was last lifetime. This time it's my turn." Emma answered, not knowing what possessed her to hint at the dreams she was having.

"So did this happen often last lifetime?" Killian asked as he moved one hand from her waist to sweep the hair off her neck.

"I would say a few times." Emma's answered. "Sometimes it was just to see me and sometimes other things would happen." Slowly her hands slide up Killian's chest and her fingers tangled into his chest hair.

"Did we enjoy the other things?" Killian breathed out against the skin of her neck before pressing his lips into a pulse point. Emma's skin was hot despite the cold night air.

"Yes" Emma moaned out responding not only to Killian’s question, but his touch on her skin. She didn't realize how much she needed to feel him on her. It wasn't because she needed to know what he felt like but she needed the familiar feeling. The ones of calm and passion she knew from her dreams. It felt strange for Emma to think of it that way but she didn't care.

"Are you here to kidnap me, take me back to your ship so you can ravage me before asking for a handsome ransom from my brother for a safe return?" Killian teased as his lips hovered over hers. The words seemed so familiar to Emma but it felt if she had said them.

"I'm here to ravage you now, Killian." Emma responded after licking her lips. "If you will have me?" Emma added as she stared at Killian's mouth.

Even through the darkness, Emma could see the little smirk Killian had on his face from her words. Next she felt his fingers bunch the hem of her shirt and the bottom of his palms glide over her skin as Killian moved her t shirt off her body. Feeling a cold breeze push through the room, Emma had remembered in her rush she had forgotten to put a bra on. There she stood almost bare in front of Killian. Not once did she think to cover herself up, in her mind Killian had seen her before even if his expression of awe said otherwise.

“You’re…you’re so beautiful Emma.” The words briefly caught in Killian’s throat as his eyes drank in the sight of Emma’s body. The moonlight upon her back created and a glow only reserved for the most admired goddesses.

Gently, Killian’s fingertips moved across the top of Emma’s jeans. He fiddled with the tiny pointed corner of the fly. Killian was excited and scared for what the moment would bring, and he looked into Emma’s eyes for reassurance this is what she wanted as well. With a nod, Emma gave Killian the permission of trespass he sought after. Nimbly Killian undid the button and zipper before using the palms of his hands to slide them past Emma’s hips. Wanting to be a gentleman got on his knees to follow the jeans on their journey to the floor. When they reached their destination, he lifted Emma’s leg to slide the legs off one at time. Emma watched amazed at the amount of care and tenderness Killian was showing her.

Looking up to Emma like a pilgrim worshipping at the feet of his goddess, Killian slid his hands slowly up her thighs prickling her skin and began to remove the simple cotton panties Emma had on. Once removed and feeling worthy of Emma, Killian stood up and once again admired the beauty that stood in front of him. He wanted to speak, tell her how gorgeous she was, but he couldn’t find the words that could express a tenth of what Emma deserved to hear. Instead he took Emma’s hand and placed it on his heavily beating heart. Every thump telling her a new vow and thought. Feeling the emotions course through her body like rough waters, Emma impatiently pushed down Killian’s boxers with her free hand. At that moment Killian was a gift and she needed to tear away at the wrapping to get to the present she had long waited for inside. With the fabric gone and nothing between them, Emma took the lead and moved them to Killian’s tiny twin bed.

“You would have anchors on your comforter.” Emma teased as positioned herself on Killian’s bed. Her eyes wondered around the bed shyly as Killian quickly put on a condom he pulled from his nightstand.

“And I bet you have ducklings on yours.” Killian quipped back as he hovered his body above Emma’s. She could feel his hard cock throbbing against her thigh, begging for entrance inside of her.

“Nope.” Emma breathed out as she lined herself up with Killian. “They are on my pj pants.” And with that Emma grabbed the back of Killian’s head and brought his lips to hers. Hard, she pressed her lips onto his before invading her tongue into his to taste his.

Lost in the passionate kiss, Killian slowly began to enter Emma. With each push further inside Emma, tiny moans escaped her mouth. Wanting to enjoy every moment and not hurt her he took his time to fully finding his way inside her. Emma’s nails dug deeper into his skin the deeper he went. The feeling of pain and pleasure was just too much for her to take and so familiar. Every fiber of her body knew she could handle more because she already had a lifetime ago. Needing all of him, Emma grabbed Killian by the hips and pulled him into her. With that he filled her. Emma’s body raised off the bed for a moment as pleasure seeped into her bones. Seizing the opportunity Killian removed himself from the kiss and placed his lips in the valley between Emma’s breasts. He kissed every inch of her that he could before her body sank back into the bed.

Craving more of the rise of Emma’s body, Killian began to move in and out her. The slickness of her core made it easy for the pace to go from slow and offbeat to perfectly in time with Emma’s own rhythm. Like the bow of the violin moving across the strings, Killian’s cock scrapped against Emma’s inner moans which created the most melodic of sounds as she moaned against his ear. Music so sweet to Killian’s ear he yearned for more. Ever so slightly Killian bent his head and carefully placed kisses along Emma’s neck, collarbone and chest before reaching the perfect peak of her breast. Killian’s mouth covered her nipple as he began to suck on it. The intensity of Emma’s pleasure increased, causing her to wrap her legs around him, to steady his thrust as he focused on her breasts. Not wanting to play favorites, Killian moved to the other nipple and began to repeat his earlier actions. Emma could feel the fire build deep in the pit of her stomach but she wasn’t ready for it to end. They had all night and she intended on using the night.

“I thought I was here to ravage you.” Emma breathless spoke as her tiny frame managed to flip them to where Killian was on his back and she on top.

There was a slight shock and amusement on Killian’s face. “By all means Emma take what you want.” He replied wanting to see what she had in store for him.

At first Emma was uncertain how to move and where to place her hands but as she closed her eyes she remembered the images of her dreams. Leaning forward Emma kissed the crook of Killian’s neck before delicately dragging her teeth across his chest and playfully biting him. A pleasurable hiss escaped Killian’s lips as he grabbed a tight hold of Emma’s hips. Straightening her back, Emma anchored her hands on Killian’s chest and began Killian’s descent into madness. Muscle memory suddenly took over and Emma rocked her hips slowly at first. She could see the pleasure in Killian’s eyes and feel it in his touch as he pressed his fingers harder against her skin. Uncertain of how she remembered this was what drove him crazy, Emma ground herself harder into him. The short strides of her hips grew longer in length with every movement of her hips.

“Emma.” Killian moaned under his breath as he watched Emma.

The sound of her name stumbling out Killian’s mouth ignited the fire building in the pit of her stomach. There was something about the deep raspy sound of his voice that made Emma want to ride him harder to make him speak again. Emma closed her eyes again and thought back to an image she had once seen of her and Killian together. Placing her a hand on each of Killian’s thighs, Emma leaned backwards and arched her back. Again she took her time finding the back and forth rhythm that pleased them both. The feel of Killian’s cock inside her fueled the orgasm that seemed to be instantly building. Emma moved faster and more erratically. Desperately she needed to feel that wave of pleasure come over her body and it was granted to her the moment Killian’s rough thumb feverishly rubbed the tiny bundle of nerves.

“Killian” Emma yelled through her teeth that clamped down on her bottom lip.

Emma’s spent and sweaty body fell forward onto Killian’s chest. The thumping of Killian’s heart pounded in Emma’s ears. Each beat played a familiar lullaby Emma swore she had heard before. She could stay in the moment forever and not care. Killian pressed a kiss into the top of her head and swept strands of hair off her back. His calloused fingertips glided across her skin like the cool breeze Emma had just noticed in the room.

“Don’t think that is the end of it. You still need yours.” Emma said through her wolfish grin as she popped her head off Killian’s chest.

“Oh do I need now love” Killian responded gleefully.

“Yes I need to still ravage you. That was just me teasing you on what I, we can do tonight.” Emma teased as she whispered into Killian’s ear.

“Then by all means my princess ravage me for real this time.” Killian breathe as he flipped Emma on her back.

“I don’t think I can while you’re on top of me.” The words were drizzled with a slight laughter as Emma spoke them.

“Oh what a pity. I may need to ravage you.” There was a lustful tone in Killian’s voice. Emma could feel the hard tip of his cock making its way into her.

“That’s not how….Oh god Killian….this works….yes like that.” Emma stuttered as Killian slide his cock in and out of her.

The pleasure from Killian inside Emma was nothing new in her mind. This was just another encounter to the long list that had already happened. Emma was familiar with the stretch his cock caused while deep inside her and the dragging against her walls when he pulled out slowly to drive her mad. Muscle memory took over and Emma began to dig her nails into the middle of Killian’s back. Just like the countless times in Emma’s dreams, Killian moaned out the words bloody hell. Not knowing whether to laugh or fear the familiarity of it all, Emma bit her bottom lip so she could say nothing. She didn’t want to ruin in the moment or scare Killian with the crazy images of them in an oversized bed and crispy cotton sheets in a distant land swirling through her head as he thrust inside her and filled her with pleasure. Emma moved her hands up into Killian’s hair and entangled her fingers with the hair at the nape of his neck. With a gentle pull she lowered his ear down to her lips.

“You know what I like” Emma whispered into his ear before she could stop herself.

“As the princess commands.” Killian responded firmly to the command.

With his left hand he slid it under Emma’s lower back, slightly raising her ass off the bed. Then his right hand found Emma’s nimble fingers and interwove his with hers. Emma could do nothing more but watch him intently. Somehow Killian remembered the night he snuck into her room, the night she told him to never leave her. An intense urge came over Emma and with all her strength she pushed her body off the bed and slammed her lips into Killian’s. Her tongue not waiting for admission she seized his with her own.  Lust and passion filled the kiss as Emma deepened it. There was a fire burning not only in the kiss but in depths of her belly.

“Now harder” Emma demanded and she broke the kiss.

As Emma’s body found the softness of Killian’s bed, like a man worshipping his goddess, Killian did as she wanted. Pulling all but the tip out Killian with a smirk on his face slowly pushed every last inch of his cock into Emma until he could not tell where he ended and she began.

“Is this what you wanted?” Killian asked knowing full well it was.

No more words were exchanged after that moment. Doing as he was told Killian began to thrust into Emma with such a force that his bed began to sift. He was thankful that Liam was not home because he would have surely heard the bed scraping the floor and Emma screaming Killian’s name at the top of her lungs. How he loved hearing her call out for him.

Wanting to hear this name pleasurably screamed from Emma’s mouth, Killian had an idea. Slowly he slid out of Emma and moved further down the bed. Killian caught a glimpse of Emma’s face. There was a mix of confusion and excitement written all over it. Not wanting to give too much away Killian smirked and lowered his mouth onto a different set of lips. Killian wasted no time putting his tongue to good use. First darting his tongue to tickle the small bundle of nerves before pushing his tongue further into her warm center. Like a boy licking frosting off his birthday cake, Killian curled his tongue and lapped the juice that flowed from Emma. Suddenly, he felt a hand gripping at his hair and pulling with slight force. Killian looked up and could see Emma biting her lip so he began to sucking gently on her clit. The simple action made Emma dig her heels into the bed and push Killian’s mouth harder into her. Killian knew if he continued he would make Emma cum into his mouth but it was not what he wanted. Abruptly Killian stopped and with one swift movement of his body, he moved back on top of Emma. Having Emma’s full attention Killian licked his lips and thrust himself back into Emma. Killian could feel Emma’s body ready for its well deserved release and he would give it to her.

Killian slid in and out of Emma, each time a little harder and deeper. The cheap bed moved further away from the wall with every movement. Throbbing inside of Emma as her walls clenched around his cock tighter and tighter, Killian could now feel that at any moment he would burst. Wanting to see Emma’s orgasm, Killian locked eyes with her and pushed his cock inside her in such an angle he was able to reach the spot deep inside her that made her body melt. Within moments Emma arched her back in profound pleasure and screamed Killian’s name into the night air. Following suit he held onto her hip as his own orgasm followed and poured into her.

“I love you Emma Swan.” Killian professed as her collapsed his tired body next to her.

“I love you Killian Jones.” Emma replied trying to catch her breath.

The two lay there in silence trying to breathe and think. Heavy panting echoed the room. Feeling the breeze make its way into the room Killian grabbed the blanket somehow still attached to the end of the bed and pulled it up towards them. Emma snuggled in closer and fit her body into his. Emma knew she could only lay there a few minutes before needing to leave or she would fall asleep and risk both of them getting in trouble. Killian pulled her in closer and pushed the hair off her neck to kiss the tiniest freckle he could spot on her skin. Both could have lived in that bed forever. There would be no worries of family or boyfriends, of crazy dreams and an even crazier reality. Time would stand still for them for just one night if they begged hard enough.

“Never leave me” Emma murmured half asleep.

“Never.” Killian whispered as pulled her tighter.

“I need you, always.” Became Emma’s last words as she drifted off into sleep.

“And I you.” Became Killian’s before he went to meet her in his dreams.

[benjamingarden]

How to Garden with Chickens

The truth about how to garden with chickens is that there are things that work and others that don’t. While adding chickens to the garden offer some benefits, there are some not so great things about it too. Here we’ll uncover the best practices to get the most out of gardening with your chickens to make it a win for everyone.

How to Garden with Chickens 101

If you are like me, I had visions of my flock frolicking through my lush garden, munching on bugs, sunshine streaming down upon us, me working near by and everything perfect in my little world.

This, of course was BEFORE I let chickens into my garden! Once I did, those idyllic visions of me gardening with my girls sadly disappeared into a plume of dust. In the blink of an eye.

My fateful reality check of what it’s really like in the garden with chickens happened right after I transplanted a bunch of cute little seedlings. Enter the chickens. Oh, they were happy and frolicking, for sure. That part of my idealistic vision was true. They happily danced right over to those fresh transplants and plowed them over, dug them up and made a mess of everything.

THIS WAS NOT HOW I PLANNED IT!! UGH!

After crashing of my chickens in the garden vision, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to garden with chickens. There is a perfect marriage between your flock and your garden so that everyone wins. I’ll show you how. But first let’s talk about why you’d want them in there to begin with.

Benefits of Chickens in the Garden

Maybe you’ve heard that chickens are good for the garden. It’s true. They’re a great addition. They can make your work so much easier, if you do it right (or a LOT harder if you don’t). Let’s look at some of the benefits of chickens in the garden:

Bug Patrol

This one is a big drawing point for everyone! Who doesn’t want the chickens to eradicate the bug problem in the garden? Chickens love to eat bugs and will search for them tirelessly. This is a good thing!

Weed Eaters

Chickens LOVE weeds. Especially the young, tender ones. They’re a great organic way to help control weeds in your garden.

Compost Creators

The thing chickens do best (besides eating constantly) is poop. A lot. Around 45 pounds of poo per hen per year. That’s a whole lot of poo! If you put that waste to work for you, you can create some lovely compost to later put in the garden (don’t put it into the garden while it’s fresh. It needs some time to mellow or it will be too strong for your garden and kill it all).

Compost Managers

If you have your compost set up in a way that chickens can help, they will. I turn mine with a big snow shovel and once the chickens see me with the shovel, they come running to report for duty. They love digging through compost and can make your job of managing it easier.

Garden Tillers

Chickens spend their days scratching and searching for food and other interesting things they might uncover. If you put that natural behavior to work in your garden, you get help tilling and breaking up the ground and general aeration practices.

Organic Matter Spreaders

Pile up leaves, compost or pretty much anything, and chickens will make short order of it. They’ll have it flatten and spread out before you know what happened. When I clean out the coop in the winter months, I’ll often dump the bedding straight into the garden in big cart loads. It just takes a few minutes for the chickens to spread it all out for me nice and even and flat. It’s a beautiful thing. (Why do something your chickens can do for you?)

Garden Waste Clean Up

Those tomatoes that are discovered half eaten by some bug? The big zucchini that somehow hid from you and turned into something the size of a bus? The chickens will gladly devour these things for you. (And even better, will give you richer eggs for having eaten the veggies and bugs you throw their way). They also help clean things up at the end of the harvest season if you let them into the garden spaces to explore.

Yes, there are crazy amazing benefits to a garden with chickens! It’s true. The trick is to use the benefits without sacrificing your garden in the process. Chickens can (in seconds) destroy all your hard work and careful cultivating. They don’t mean to. They’re not being terrible on purpose. It’s just their nature to curiously explore, look for food, and dig around in the dirt. The fact that they disrupt plants doesn’t register to them as a no-no. And all those beautiful, ripe veggies? They think those bright red, vine ripe orbs are there for them, like winning the chicken lottery. Who would think twice about eating them??

Ways to Garden (Safely) with Chickens

The truth is, we want chickens in the garden. To a certain point. But we want the garden still standing at the end of the day. Here are some tips and ideas to help both your garden and chickens co-habitat and for your world to live in (relatively) peaceful harmony (at least when it comes to the gardens and the chickens).

Open the Garden Seasonally 

I allow my girls in the garden from the end of harvest in the fall until spring planting. During that time, they can go crazy. Dig up things, eat whatever they want, leave their poo in it wherever it lands, etc. I don’t care what they do because I’m not trying to grow anything (except for the places I AM trying to grow things, then those are still off-limits).

(This photo below shows the chickens the day the garden gate closed to them for the season! It’s always quite a shock to them the day it happens! ha)

Fence the Garden

It goes without saying that if you have free range birds, you’ll need a fence around your garden. And, if you plant things too close to that fence, they will reach in and eat it. (I learned this the hard way one summer that I used the fence as a bean trellis. I found out my girls actually LOVE beans. The leaves, the pods, Anything. Everything. Yea. That.)

“Free Range” Tunnels

Another trick some people do is to create wire tunnels (like this) around the outer edge of the garden where you allow the chickens to wander to eat bugs without being able to destroy your plants. I’ve never done this myself, but I’ve talked to people who have and they love this method.

Wait Until Your Plants are Mature

Some people let their chickens in to the garden once the plants are big enough they can withstand the constant pecking and scratching of a chicken. If you go this route, just know that those hens will NOT think twice about eating the tomatoes within their reach, plucking the thriving kale plant clean, making your  carrot bed a dust bathing station or eating chunks out of your zucchini. If you don’t mind sharing your produce with them, and the benefits of having them there outweigh your smaller harvest, this is definitely an option to consider.

Use a Chicken Tractor

A chicken tractor is a portable chicken coop that you can move around daily from place to place in the garden. The chickens will be contained within the tractor, but can eat the bugs and weeds beneath them.  If you want to make a chicken tractor of your own, here’s a step by step guide with lots of photos. You can also search for chicken tractors on Pinterest and get lots of ideas.

Add Netting 

This advice is especially good for those blueberry bushes (and the like) you’re trying to grow fruit on. My chickens discovered the young blueberry grove belonging to my neighbors and ate every last berry! They also devoured my gooseberries. (They’re not good at sharing). If a fence around such things feels a bit much, get some netting to cover the bushes/trees during their blooming (the chickens love the blooms as well) and berry growing seasons.

Add Chicken Wire

You can ‘enclose’ the plants you’re wanting to protect in chicken wire, hardware cloth or other similar kinds of barriers. Or cover your raised beds with a wire dome to keep the chickens out of places you don’t want them in. This selective protection will allow you to give your chickens some garden time but keep them from destroying everything in sight.

Leave the Big Weeds or Add Rocks

If you don’t weed your garden, you won’t uncover bare patched of dirt that attract chickens. Alternately, you can weed and add big rocks, again, to cover the bare soil and discourage digging.

  Bonus Tips

While I’m talking about how to garden with chickens, I thought I’d throw in a couple of bonus tips.

Plant Extras

Plant extra veggies that your flock will like (my love kale, tomatoes, zucchini, beans, strawberries, blueberries (any kind of berries, really), and more). While my flock is locked out of the garden during the growing season, they’ve learned that if they hang around on the other side of the garden fence they will inevitably get treats in the form of fresh veggies.

Plant a Chicken Garden

Every year we plant a garden just for the chickens and bees. They love it. We fill it with blooming things that the bees will love and a chicken foraging mix for the flock. Here’s more information on planting your own chicken garden (and where to get inexpensive seeds).

Chickens and gardens go together fabulously, once you learn how to garden with chickens in a way that’s a win/win for everyone. My way of making it all work is the seasonal approach. They’re allowed into the garden from around October until May. Then, they get the boot. I plant a chicken garden for them to forage in to their hearts content, doing what chickens do. And I also plant extra veggies so I can feed them fresh veggies without taking away from what I’m hoping to harvest for myself.

Your solution might not look like mine, but hopefully you gained some ideas from the above and can come up with a plan that works for you. Good luck. And happy gardening with your chickens!

How to Garden with Chickens was originally posted by My Favorite Chicken Blogs(benjamingardening)

[benjamingarden]

How to Garden with Chickens

The truth about how to garden with chickens is that there are things that work and others that don’t. While adding chickens to the garden offer some benefits, there are some not so great things about it too. Here we’ll uncover the best practices to get the most out of gardening with your chickens to make it a win for everyone.

How to Garden with Chickens 101

If you are like me, I had visions of my flock frolicking through my lush garden, munching on bugs, sunshine streaming down upon us, me working near by and everything perfect in my little world.

This, of course was BEFORE I let chickens into my garden! Once I did, those idyllic visions of me gardening with my girls sadly disappeared into a plume of dust. In the blink of an eye.

My fateful reality check of what it’s really like in the garden with chickens happened right after I transplanted a bunch of cute little seedlings. Enter the chickens. Oh, they were happy and frolicking, for sure. That part of my idealistic vision was true. They happily danced right over to those fresh transplants and plowed them over, dug them up and made a mess of everything.

THIS WAS NOT HOW I PLANNED IT!! UGH!

After crashing of my chickens in the garden vision, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to garden with chickens. There is a perfect marriage between your flock and your garden so that everyone wins. I’ll show you how. But first let’s talk about why you’d want them in there to begin with.

Benefits of Chickens in the Garden

Maybe you’ve heard that chickens are good for the garden. It’s true. They’re a great addition. They can make your work so much easier, if you do it right (or a LOT harder if you don’t). Let’s look at some of the benefits of chickens in the garden:

Bug Patrol

This one is a big drawing point for everyone! Who doesn’t want the chickens to eradicate the bug problem in the garden? Chickens love to eat bugs and will search for them tirelessly. This is a good thing!

Weed Eaters

Chickens LOVE weeds. Especially the young, tender ones. They’re a great organic way to help control weeds in your garden.

Compost Creators

The thing chickens do best (besides eating constantly) is poop. A lot. Around 45 pounds of poo per hen per year. That’s a whole lot of poo! If you put that waste to work for you, you can create some lovely compost to later put in the garden (don’t put it into the garden while it’s fresh. It needs some time to mellow or it will be too strong for your garden and kill it all).

Compost Managers

If you have your compost set up in a way that chickens can help, they will. I turn mine with a big snow shovel and once the chickens see me with the shovel, they come running to report for duty. They love digging through compost and can make your job of managing it easier.

Garden Tillers

Chickens spend their days scratching and searching for food and other interesting things they might uncover. If you put that natural behavior to work in your garden, you get help tilling and breaking up the ground and general aeration practices.

Organic Matter Spreaders

Pile up leaves, compost or pretty much anything, and chickens will make short order of it. They’ll have it flatten and spread out before you know what happened. When I clean out the coop in the winter months, I’ll often dump the bedding straight into the garden in big cart loads. It just takes a few minutes for the chickens to spread it all out for me nice and even and flat. It’s a beautiful thing. (Why do something your chickens can do for you?)

Garden Waste Clean Up

Those tomatoes that are discovered half eaten by some bug? The big zucchini that somehow hid from you and turned into something the size of a bus? The chickens will gladly devour these things for you. (And even better, will give you richer eggs for having eaten the veggies and bugs you throw their way). They also help clean things up at the end of the harvest season if you let them into the garden spaces to explore.

Yes, there are crazy amazing benefits to a garden with chickens! It’s true. The trick is to use the benefits without sacrificing your garden in the process. Chickens can (in seconds) destroy all your hard work and careful cultivating. They don’t mean to. They’re not being terrible on purpose. It’s just their nature to curiously explore, look for food, and dig around in the dirt. The fact that they disrupt plants doesn’t register to them as a no-no. And all those beautiful, ripe veggies? They think those bright red, vine ripe orbs are there for them, like winning the chicken lottery. Who would think twice about eating them??

Ways to Garden (Safely) with Chickens

The truth is, we want chickens in the garden. To a certain point. But we want the garden still standing at the end of the day. Here are some tips and ideas to help both your garden and chickens co-habitat and for your world to live in (relatively) peaceful harmony (at least when it comes to the gardens and the chickens).

Open the Garden Seasonally 

I allow my girls in the garden from the end of harvest in the fall until spring planting. During that time, they can go crazy. Dig up things, eat whatever they want, leave their poo in it wherever it lands, etc. I don’t care what they do because I’m not trying to grow anything (except for the places I AM trying to grow things, then those are still off-limits).

(This photo below shows the chickens the day the garden gate closed to them for the season! It’s always quite a shock to them the day it happens! ha)

Fence the Garden

It goes without saying that if you have free range birds, you’ll need a fence around your garden. And, if you plant things too close to that fence, they will reach in and eat it. (I learned this the hard way one summer that I used the fence as a bean trellis. I found out my girls actually LOVE beans. The leaves, the pods, Anything. Everything. Yea. That.)

“Free Range” Tunnels

Another trick some people do is to create wire tunnels (like this) around the outer edge of the garden where you allow the chickens to wander to eat bugs without being able to destroy your plants. I’ve never done this myself, but I’ve talked to people who have and they love this method.

Wait Until Your Plants are Mature

Some people let their chickens in to the garden once the plants are big enough they can withstand the constant pecking and scratching of a chicken. If you go this route, just know that those hens will NOT think twice about eating the tomatoes within their reach, plucking the thriving kale plant clean, making your  carrot bed a dust bathing station or eating chunks out of your zucchini. If you don’t mind sharing your produce with them, and the benefits of having them there outweigh your smaller harvest, this is definitely an option to consider.

Use a Chicken Tractor

A chicken tractor is a portable chicken coop that you can move around daily from place to place in the garden. The chickens will be contained within the tractor, but can eat the bugs and weeds beneath them.  If you want to make a chicken tractor of your own, here’s a step by step guide with lots of photos. You can also search for chicken tractors on Pinterest and get lots of ideas.

Add Netting 

This advice is especially good for those blueberry bushes (and the like) you’re trying to grow fruit on. My chickens discovered the young blueberry grove belonging to my neighbors and ate every last berry! They also devoured my gooseberries. (They’re not good at sharing). If a fence around such things feels a bit much, get some netting to cover the bushes/trees during their blooming (the chickens love the blooms as well) and berry growing seasons.

Add Chicken Wire

You can ‘enclose’ the plants you’re wanting to protect in chicken wire, hardware cloth or other similar kinds of barriers. Or cover your raised beds with a wire dome to keep the chickens out of places you don’t want them in. This selective protection will allow you to give your chickens some garden time but keep them from destroying everything in sight.

Leave the Big Weeds or Add Rocks

If you don’t weed your garden, you won’t uncover bare patched of dirt that attract chickens. Alternately, you can weed and add big rocks, again, to cover the bare soil and discourage digging.

  Bonus Tips

While I’m talking about how to garden with chickens, I thought I’d throw in a couple of bonus tips.

Plant Extras

Plant extra veggies that your flock will like (my love kale, tomatoes, zucchini, beans, strawberries, blueberries (any kind of berries, really), and more). While my flock is locked out of the garden during the growing season, they’ve learned that if they hang around on the other side of the garden fence they will inevitably get treats in the form of fresh veggies.

Plant a Chicken Garden

Every year we plant a garden just for the chickens and bees. They love it. We fill it with blooming things that the bees will love and a chicken foraging mix for the flock. Here’s more information on planting your own chicken garden (and where to get inexpensive seeds).

Chickens and gardens go together fabulously, once you learn how to garden with chickens in a way that’s a win/win for everyone. My way of making it all work is the seasonal approach. They’re allowed into the garden from around October until May. Then, they get the boot. I plant a chicken garden for them to forage in to their hearts content, doing what chickens do. And I also plant extra veggies so I can feed them fresh veggies without taking away from what I’m hoping to harvest for myself.

Your solution might not look like mine, but hopefully you gained some ideas from the above and can come up with a plan that works for you. Good luck. And happy gardening with your chickens!

How to Garden with Chickens was originally posted by My Favorite Chicken Blogs(benjamingardening)